Thursday, December 29, 2011

VAN HALEN - CONFIRMED SO FAR: Van Halen confirmed information so far: New studio album to be released February 7 in North America. February 8 in Japan; February 6 possible for EU/UK or February 13 at latest. Tour Dates for first leg of 2012 tour announced January 3. Single released (along with video clip) January 10. Tickets for first leg of tour on sale January 10. Album and single titles yet to be revealed and rumored bonus DVD could be part of a deluxe edition of the album.

 

 

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

xx

 

 

Friday, December 23, 2011

FRONTIERS RECORDS LAST ANNOUNCEMENT OF 2012: Here's an update of what is in store from Frontiers in the first part of 2012. Jeff Scott Soto - "Damage Control", the new album by Jeff Scott Soto, is near completion and promises to deliver a one-two punch in the standard that is expected from the artist who has mastered the world of Melodic and Hard Rock music through the ages! The album is completed with appearances and co-writing by his current and former live line ups as well as guests such as Dave Meniketti (Y&T), Jamie Borger (Talisman/Treat), Casey Grillo (Kamelot) and Joel Hoekstra (Night Ranger). There will be an 11 song single CD release of the album, as well as a 14 song DigiPack version along with a bonus DVD which includes videos and EPK. Get ready for Damage Control, it will rock your World! Crazy Lixx - Crazy Lixx are busy in the studio recording their third album that will be entitled "Riot Avenue". According to singer Danny Rexon: "This time the music is a little more riff-based and straight-forward. We wanted to make real a hard rock album, so we decided to have a little more raw feeling in the production, sound and songwriting compared to our previous albums and there's a lot more up-tempo songs than we had on New Religion. Also, the addition of a second guitarist, Edd Liam, has made it possible to add some twin guitar playing and other interesting musical stuff that we've used on the album". Some of the song titles are "Whiskey Tango Foxtrot", "Young Blood", "Riot Avenue", "Church of Rock", "Fire it Up", "Only the Dead Know" and more. The album is planned for a worldwide release in April 2012 and will be followed by the usual string of live dates around the World. Pride Of Lions - Pride of Lions is carrying on their proud heritage working hard on their as yet untitled fourth studio album. Jim Peterik says: "Our self-titled debut released in 2002 is still many of our fans favorite albums. So this album is a bit of a return to form. Of course there will be a few surprises and Toby Hitchcock is singing stronger than ever. I've hit a stride on the songwriting with songs such as "Tie Down The Wind" and "Coin of the Realm". I needed the time since The Roaring of Dreams to regroup and get reinspired. If you can't make a great record that will last the test of time - why even bother. This time Toby and me wanna take Pride of Lions on the road to promote this new one and spread the word". This new Pride of Lions from what we've heard so far promises to be both more melodic and harder edged. Release is planned for early summer 2012. Hardline - Hardline will be back in 2012 with a brand new album and a new line-up which will mark the beginning of a new cooperation between singer Johnny Gioeli and the Italian producer/keyboardist Alessandro Delvecchio (Edge Of Forever, Eden's Curse). The US singer says: "I'm really excited to be working with Frontiers on a new Hardline record! We have slated the release for mid-2012...This CD is filled with melody and class...I'm digging it. I hope the Hardline fans enjoy this CD as much as I have enjoyed creating it... Happy Holidays All!" Eclipse - Eclipse are putting their finishing touches to their anticipated fourth studio album that will be entitled "Bleed And Scream". Musically the band is taking off the new release where the last album finished, yet with more refined and progressed songwriting. It will be a 100% Eclipse-sounding album with big hooks, melodies and powerful riffs but it leans towards a more darker, moody and epic side of the band. Songs like the title-track, "Battlegrounds", "A Bitter Taste" and "After the End of the World" will show an exciting new side of the songwriting of the band. There will also be the first ballad in the history of the band entitled "About to Break". Singer Erik Martensson tells: "This album was the hardest to write for us so far. On the other hand the most rewarding. We don´t know at this point how we are going to top this one. We have tweaked everything from quality of the songs, melodies, hooks, arrangements, guitar-riffs, vocal performances, guitar solos, drumming and the variety in the songwriting in general. No stone is left unturned this time." Frontiers plans to release the album in the first half of 2012. Find Me - Singer Robbie LaBlanc of Blanc Faces and Swedish producer/songwriter Daniel Flores (Mind's Eye; The Murder Of My Sweet) have started working together on an exciting new project entitled Find Me. Musically it will have an heavier edge compared to Blanc Faces and Robbie sings louder and stronger than ever! Daniel Flores says "This cd is some of the best AOR songs I've ever worked on, there are songs for everybody here, it is going to be a monster. Robbie has one of the best voices in the business and I'm proud to be working with him, he reminds me of the soulfulness of Martin Page and Lou Gramm's singing. I have given every song on Find Me its own identity for Robbie to showcase his great vocal diversity; all arrangements are carefully produced to fit his voice. The sonic impact will knock the socks out of you for sure! There are some great musicians involved on this Cd, starting with the amazing solos from guitar wizard David Sivelind, the rhythm guitars of Daniel Palmqvist and the very tight and inventive bass playing from Jonny Trobro. The amount of time put into keyboards was really a lot and will instantly remind the listener of the greats like Boston and Foreigner. All done with real vintage keyboards to give the album the organic feel, that unfortunately so many albums lack of these days. I have never been this satisfied with the keyboards and synthesizer arrangements like on this album!" Release is planned for the summer 2012. New Signings - Two very exciting new bands have joined or are about to join the Frontiers Records roster. One is a new Metal band from the UK which has already gathered a vast critical acclaim with their independently released debut album and that will finally have a worldwide release on Frontiers and another is a new Melodic Rock band from Sweden sounding like an exciting mix of Work of Art and H.E.A.T! Stay tuned for more news in early 2012 - more and more surprises are in the works !! Merry Christmas and Happy Rocking New Year! MAD MAX "ANOTHER NIGHT OF PASSION" - COVER AND TRACKLISTING REVEALED: Just a brief summary to start with, establishing the historical context: hard rock act Mad Max from Münster in Germany found themselves on the verge of their American breakthrough in 1987. Everything was ready back then – a renowned producer to apply the finishing touches to Night Of Passion, Mad Max's current album of that time, a concert agency capable of organising an extensive tour, topped by major interest from the American rock music press. But the unfathomable business policy of the band's Dutch record company stood in the way of their leap across the Atlantic: Mad Max never made it onto the US market, and a dream was shattered, along with the legendary line-up. 25 years later, the world seems to be a different place, but Mad Max have turned the wheel of history back and are about to present their latest album Another Night Of Passion, recorded by the original 1987 team. To rule out any misunderstandings: what we have here is a completely new album with exclusively brand-new material, but the reference in the album title to that glorious time is intentional. "The new record could have been a direct successor to Night Of Passion in terms of its stylistic direction – no ballads, no keyboards, just purebred rock songs – naturally in a contemporary sonic guise," explains guitarist Jürgen Breforth, who recorded this haunting release together with vocalist Michael Voss, bassist Roland Bergmann and drummer Axel Kruse. Another Night Of Passion will be available from Steamhammer/SPV on 26 March 2012 (Germany: 23 March 2012; USA: March 2012) in a jewel case edition featuring eleven songs, and in a limited-edition DigiPack, including the additional bonus CD Official Bootleg – Live In Berlin. Tracklisting DigiPack: CD1 1. Rocklahoma 04:38 2. 40 Rock 04:21 3. Metal Edge 03:58 4. You Decide 03:53 5. Welcome To Rock Bottom 03:51 6. Fallen From Grace 05:11 7. Black Swan 05:05 8. Back And Alive 03:22 9. The Chant 04:56 10. Fever Of Love 04:09 11. True Blue 02:51. CD2 (Bonus "Official Bootleg – Live In Berlin") 1. Where The Wind Blows 04:32 2. Here We Are 04:57 3. Night Of Passion 04:47 4. Family Of Rock 04:48 5. Little Princess 04:05 6. Say Goodbye To Hollywood 06:02 7. Open The Eyes 06:55 8. Don`t Talk It All Over 05:37 9. Homeless 04:57 10. Hope To See You 05:02 11. Fox On The Run 05:59. WebLinks: www.madmaxofficial.de / www.spv.de.   xx MELODIC BRIEFS: Faithsedge Studio Report Part 2 - A preview of two new songs and the addition of keyboardist Eric Ragno to the band! www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0kaydQYGvU&feature=youtu.be / www.faithsedgemusic.com. Vocalist Scott Leifer has recorded a song in memory of Jani Lane. He states: "This tune was inspired by Jani's passing shortly after his final appearance on That Metal Show. It was borne out of great appreciation and respect for his songs/music, but also sadness (and shock), especially as it seemed he might have been turning a corner. Jani was a fantastic songwriter and performer, but unfortunately, like several others, he wasn't able to get the help he needed despite what seemed like only the best intentions." www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fm9jS3uLSOQ. A Merry Christmas Video from Ann & Nancy Wilson of Heart: theheartgallery.net/gallery/photos/69/58662839/1323905927-69.mov. REVIEWS UPDATED: Reviews have been updated again, with some InBrief Reviews of a stack more 2011 titles (and one from 2012). New Reviews online for: Lee Small, Magnum, Mitch Malloy, Fiona, Steel Panther, Status Quo, Trillium, Scorpions, Crossfade, Bang Tango, Nitroville, Adelitas Way, Adrenaline Mob, Reckless Love, Strange Karma, John Pratt and Captain Blackbeard. Check out the new reviews now. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated - but something different this time - I have moved all of 2011's uploads into one special folder for all to enjoy. So if you have missed something, now's the time to join up and catch up before all are deleted upon my return in early January. Join MRX Now. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL: So this is the part where I sign off until Monday January 9. The site won't be updated over the holiday period (unless something really stupid happens...), but the MelodicRock Facebook and Twitter feeds will continue to be updated as usual, pending the need to post any random thoughts, stupid comments or musical musings. And any breaking news of course. Sign up and stay in tune. 2011 may have been one of the best years for music in more than a decade (maybe two), but it was one hell of a challenge for me and the site. There's a lot of stuff on the drawing board, hopefully I can work on these things over the break and come back stronger than ever in 2012. Thank you to everyone's support over 2011. I would like to wish everyone around the globe a safe, happy and melodic Christmas holiday - I hope Santa is kind to all and see you all back here January 9.

 

 

Thursday, December 22, 2011

JOE LYNN TURNER'S NEW SUNSTORM ALBUM PAYS TRIBUTE TO HIS 80'S VOCAL SESSIONS: Joe Lynn Turner's popular AOR side project with German/American producer Dennis Ward, Sunstorm, will release the third album entitled Emotional Fire on February 24 in Europe (February 28 in North America) on Frontiers Records. Born after Turner met with Frontiers Records' President Serafino Perugino, the Sunstorm project was a way to dig up some old gems, written by the former Rainbow, Deep Purple and Yngwie Malmsteen singer during the mid 80's. The task was to create an ultimate Joe Lynn Turner Melodic Rock "dream collection." This brought on the release of the first Sunstorm album in 2006 –which met with much critic and fan approval - and the follow up House of Dreams three years later. While the first two albums' basic inspiration came from the Melodic Rock catalogue of songs that Turner penned for himself or other artists of the genre, for this third album, Frontiers and JLT decided to look at Turner's numerous vocal sessions he did in the 80's as a background vocalist for other artists. This brought on a resurrection of some of Michael Bolton's Melodic Rock gems such as "Gina," (originally included on "The Hunger" album, where Turner contributed with background vocals), "You Wouldn't Know Love" and "Emotional Fire," which Bolton penned for the "Heart of Stone" album by Cher (in which Turner also appeared as background vocalist). "I sang background on the original 'Gina,'" says Joe, "Michael and I did all of the parts but I tried to rock it up a bit more than the original... not so pop! Good song though! It's funny...I heard 'Emotional Fire' from Desmond Child during a writing session and then he asked me to sing background vocals on it! Crazy! It's like one big circle!" With production and mixing once again under the expert hands of Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69, Place Vendome, Angra etc.) and a tracklisting rounded out by some amazing songs written by the likes of Soren Kronkvist (Crash the System, Issa), Tom and James Martin (Vega, Sunstorm, Khymera) and Daniel Palmqvist (Xorigin, The Murder of My Sweet), the third Sunstorm album, Emotional Fire, is destined to reignite the Melodic Rock passion in every fan. "I think this record has a good mix of songs," concludes Joe, "Just what 'Sunstorm' is supposed to be! Dennis Ward is a great producer and the players are amazing. I have to say I am pleased with the work we did and hope that everyone else will be pleased as well...enjoy!" Sunstorm's "Emotional Fire" will include the following songs: Never Give Up, Emotional Fire, Lay Down Your Arms, You Wouldn't Know Love, Wish You Were Here, Torn In Half, Gina, The Higher You Rise, Emily, Follow Your Heart, All I Am. The first single, "Never Give Up" can be exclusively streamed on the Frontiers Records webradio www.frontiers.it/webradio. WebLinks: www.joelynnturner.com / www.frontiers.it.   xx ARNEL PINEDA AND JOURNEY GEAR UP FOR 2012 SHOWS & CROSSROADS SHOWCASE: Filipino singer Arnel Pineda said he just finished doing more than 90 shows in South America and Europe as the lead singer of Journey. Talking to ABS-CBN morning show "Kris TV", Pineda also shared that Journey will be looking at some big shows next year, including one with American country music band Rascal Flatts as part of the CMT Crossroads Series. "The next tour will happen next year. We will have a two-show crossroad thing with the Rascal Flatts," he said. "It will happen on the third week of February in Nashville. They will sing a couple of Journey songs, then we will sing their songs." Pineda said that by March, Journey will start doing their three-part show in South America with bands Styx, Loverboy, Foreigner and Heart. In 2011 Journey performed in Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Peru, Mexico, England, Germany, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Belgium and Netherlands. The band is set to tour during 2012 with Loverboy in the USA also. NEW INTERVIEWS TO CATCH: Myke Gray first rose to prominence as a guitarist and songwriter with two fondly remembered rock outfits in the shape of Jagged Edge and Skin, and is now back with a new project, The Red White & Blues, featuring fellow former Jagged Edge bandmate, vocalist Matti Alfonzetti. As the name suggests, the band's music has a strong Blues element, influenced by the likes of AC/DC, Free, Bad Company and early Whitesnake, and their self-released debut album "Shine" is chock full of Blues-infused Hard Rock songs which show that the writing partnership of Myke and Matti is a strong as ever. The band have already made a very favourable impression on the live circuit, with well-received support slots with the Quireboys and Whitesnake, and the album delivers on the initial promise shown by the band in the live arena. This week's edition of Rich Davenport's Rock Show features an exclusive interview with Myke Gray, along with Myke's choice of tracks from "Shine". The show will be broadcast from 7-8pm UK time on Thursday, 22nd December at this link: www.salfordcityradio.org/shows.php?id=577 and from Friday, 23rd December, the show will be available at www.mixcloud.com/richdav1. The show will also feature a mix of classic tracks and killer new cuts from David Lee Roth, Wolfsbane, Accept, The Rossington Collins Band, Astral Doors, Thin Lizzy, Slade and more! That Metal Show co-host Jim Florentine will guest on this week's edition of Caffeine Bomb. Make sure you tune in at 7:00 p.m. EST on Monday, December 26th, to 91.7 FM WHUS in Eastern Connecticut, also streaming at WHUS.org. 91.7 WHUS is a commercial-free college and community-based radio station broadcasting from the University of Connecticut. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/CaffeineBomb.radio or WHUS.org. INTRODUCING NO LOVE LOST: N0LoveLost announces the worldwide release of their self titled debut album. 'The highly anticipated release of North Carolina's newest Melodic/Hard Rock sensation, N0LoveLost, hit the streets in November. Formed in the fall of 2006, all of the members of N0LoveLost are seasoned veterans of the southeast rock circuit and their timeless influences, songwriting skills, and passion for their music, shine through in each of the 13 tracks. Mixed and produced by Brian Asbelle, N0LoveLost is melodic hard rock at its best! "Wow, what a great CD!! Well done guys..." ~ Bill Leverty/Firehouse. Available now at online music retailers everywhere! Visit www.nolovelostmusic.com for more information.   ONE MORE UPDATE FOR 2011 TO GO: One more update to come folks - that will be tomorrow - with News, Reviews and MRX updates planned. Then it's Christmas break time. A lot to sort out for 2012 during the time away for the site. Will post more details with tomorrow's final 2011 news update.

 

 

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

MR BIG'S LIVE FROM THE LIVING ROOM FINALLY MADE AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE ON FRONTIERS RECORDS: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Mr. Big's new acoustic Live Album Live from the Living Room on February 24 in Europe and February 28 in North America. At the end of January 2011, during a week-long promotion trip to promote for their latest reunion album What If and tour, Mr Big were invited to the WOWOW TV Studios in Tokyo to perform a special show in an intimate setting. When the talk of a broadcast first came up, the band wanted to present something different than they've ever done before. Thus the idea of an acoustic show came about and a string quintet was brought in to enhance the project even more, with arrangements provided by Takashi Miyazaki. Although Paul Gilbert and Billy Sheehan hooked up electric on a few songs, the show was still very much acoustic in nature throughout. Pat Torpey played various acoustic percussion instruments during the gig. In Eric Martin's words "The idea for the show came out of a quick conversation the 4 of us had after a day of interviews promoting the new "What if" CD. We did an acoustic show at the Hard Rock café in Singapore in 1996 that (till this day) is one of my favorite live recordings. It had a stripped down, up close and personal feel to it. If we were going to do something like that again it would have to be extra special. We were talking about the old days when musicians used to live together in a band house and practice day & night. Our favorite rock band posters and tapestry's adorning the walls, family hand me down furniture, amps that doubled as lamp stands, friends hanging out and the usual cluttered mess on the floor, lyric sheets, guitar cases and chords, music stands, beer cans, Pizza boxes, wine bottles etc. "Live from the living room" was born out of that. We wanted to recreate a harmonious atmosphere and treat our fans to an informal jam session of songs from the past and present while throwing in a few surprises from our wish lists (Strings, Japanese taiko drums). # Mr. Big Fun fact - it was recorded live in front of a small but intimate audience at Tokyo studios where great movies like Seven Samurai, Godzilla and hundreds of other legendary Japanese films were made." The result from that magic night in Tokyo is now here: 10 Mr Big classics in a completely new and fresh dress and a portrait from the very first ever acoustic show from the band. Mr Big's latest album "What If" saw the band come back in the original line-up featuring singer Eric Martin, guitarist Paul Gilbert, Billy Sheehan on bass and Pat Torpey on drums. The album charted in several European countries in the week of release and went gold in Japan. Live from the Living Room will be exclusively released in a glossy DigiPack and will include the following songs: Undertow; Still Ain't Enough For Me; As Far As I Can See; Voodoo Kiss; Take Cover; Around The World; Stranger In My Life; All The Way Up; To Be With You; Nobody Left To Blame. It is now possible to listen the first single "Undertow" on the Frontiers Records Webradio. Tune in at www.frontiers.it/webradio. WebLinks: www.mrbigsite.com / www.frontiers.it.   xx FREEDOM CALL "LAND OF THE CRIMSON DAWN" - COVER AND TRACKLISTING REVEALED: There can be no doubt that Freedom Call, in addition to their many other irrefutable fortes, are also a first-rate live act. Their concerts see the melodic metal outfit from Southern Germany deliver a veritable a riot of musical zest, positive energy and personal optimism. So it's not surprising that vocalist/guitarist Chris Bay and his team have been wanting to add this dynamic flair to one of their studio productions without neglecting their familiar love of detail – which the band from Nuremberg have skilfully accomplished on Land Of The Crimson Dawn. "The new tracks simply have more of that rock'n'roll feel," says Bay, "everything sounds much rawer, there's more focus on the guitars than before, and the musicians had more freedom during the recordings than they used to have." This added independence has paid off for Freedom Call: Land Of The Crimson Dawn is definitely one of the band's most dynamic productions since their 1999 debut Stairway To Fairyland, combining the passion of their live shows with carefully intricate arrangements and technical finesse. The new album will be available from Steamhammer/SPV on 27 February 2012 (Germany: 24 February 2012; USA: 28 February 2012 ) in three versions: as a jewel case featuring 14 songs, as a limited double CD DigiPack including six additional bonus tracks – which have chums such as Powerworld, Secret Sphere, Downspirit, Manimal, Neonfly and Hannes Braun (Kissin' Dynamite) deliver their versions of popular Freedom Call numbers – and on double coloured vinyl LP. Tracklisting DigiPack: CD 1 1. Age of the Phoenix 3:37 2. Rockstars 5:08 3. Crimson Dawn 6:29 4. 66 Warriors 5:20 5. Back into the Land of Light 5:39 6. Sun in the Dark 4:49 7. Hero on Video 3:50 8. Valley of Kingdom 4:32 9. Killer Gear 4:42 10. Rockin` Radio 4:13 11. Terra Liberty 4:09 12. Eternity 4:23 13. Space Legends 4:04 14. Power & Glory 3:30 / CD 2 1. Flame in the night – performed by Powerworld 2. Hunting high and low - performed by Downspirit 3. Fairyland - performed by Secret Sphere 4. Palace of Fantasy - performed by Manimal 5. Land of the light - performed by Neonfly 6. Warriors - performed by Hannes Braun of Kissin` Dynamite. WebLink: www.freedom-call.net / www.spv.de.   xx ERIK AND MIQAEL TURN HICKS: You'd sware that guitarist/composer Erik Martensson and his writing partner Miqael Persson (turned lead vocalist for this project) were born on the wrong side of the tracks north of Tennessee, but these Swedish lads have a little southern country up their sleeves - calling this new project Hicks. The guy's state: "In Nashville they call it "Stadium Country". A perfect mix between Country and Rock. The first promo single "Mamas Kitchen" taken from the forthcoming album "Rock N' Roll Cowboy" recorded in Nashville TN, Austin TX and Stockholm Sweden." Check it out!   DOOGIE AND LA PAZ REVEAL ALBUM DETAILS AND ART: As recently announced Metal Mind Productions will release Granite, the first album by Doogie White & La Paz. This unique album will be out in early 2012 but today the band revealed its cover artwork and tracklist. Front cover illustration of Granite was done by the Polish graphic designer Jarosaw Wieczorek. La Paz were formed in Lanarkshire, Scotland in the summer of 1984 by Chic McSherry (guitars), Doogie White (vocals) and Alex Carmichael (bass). At the first rehearsal together they hit it off immediately on a personal level - they also liked the same music and they had the same influences and heroes (Purple, Rainbow, Journey, Gary Moore) so they started to recruit other members to try to form a band and go do some gigs. Andy Mason (keyboards) joined the trio and he fitted in from the start, even though he was still at school when he joined. Drummers were always a problem and, over the life of the band, La Paz went through almost as many as Spinal Tap. Unquestionably the loudest and the most accomplished was/is their current drummer, Paul McManus. La Paz played live regularly, sometimes playing up to a hundred gigs in a year. They played the world-famous Marquee Club in London as well as at some festivals in Milton Keynes and they were featured regularly in Kerrang! (Derek Oliver becoming a big fan of the band) and attracted interest from a number of UK and US record companies, finally agreeing terms with one of them for a three album deal. But it was not to be - for reasons which were never explained by the record label the deal fell through at the very last minute. Sadly the band didn't survive for very long after that. They did their last gig on 15th October 1988 and then Doogie moved to London to join Midnite Blue, Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, Cornerstone, Yngwie Malmsteen and now the mighty Tank. And then legendary DJ Tom Russell of 96.3 Rock Radio called Doogie and asked him if he would do some acoustic numbers at The Garage in Glasgow for Rock Radio's Birthday Bash in January 2008. Doogie agreed and asked Chic to play guitar. It was a big ask after 20 years: almost 1000 people, Doogie singing alone and Chic with one flamenco guitar! "We had such a blast though and it woke up so many great memories in both of us that we decided to give it a go with the full band for my 50th birthday" said Chic. And so the full band started to rehearse and it was clear that they could still play a bit. The band just gelled: just like old times and the gigs were a terrific success. And so the idea of re-recording some of the favourites from the set that had never had a proper production job was conceived. Granite is an album with its roots in the past but its energy in the present. Metal Mind Productions will release Granite on February 13 in Europe and March 6 in USA (via MVD). Tracklist: 1. Too Good To Lose 2. This Boy 3. Lesson In Love 4. Amy 5. Just For Today 6. What Do You Say 7. Still In Love 8. Young And Restless 9. Shame The Devil.   McSG HITS THE ROAD AGAIN: Robin McAuley has put Survivor behind him to return to active duty with Michael Schenker, in the McAuley Schenker Group - set to tour the USA in early 2012. Details and dates are: Lineup: Michael Schenker (Scorpions, UFO) - guitar; Robin McAuley - lead vocals; Elliot Rubinson (Dean Guitars) - bass; Wayne Findlay - keyboards, guitar; Pete Holmes (Black 'N Blue) - drums. Tour Dates: February 15 - San Francisco, CA - Mezzanine 16 - Santa Rosa, CA - The Last Day Saloon 17 - Portland, OR - Dantes (w/ Anvil) 18 - Tacoma, WA - Backstage Live 19 - Seattle, WA - Studio Seven 20 - Victoria, BC - 9 One 9 Nightclub 21 - Vancouver, BC - Venue Nightclub 23 - Orangevale, CA - The Boardwalk 24 - Corona, CA - Marquee 15 25 - West Hollywood, CA - House Of Blues 26 - San Diego, CA - 4 Th And B Concert Theatre March 1 - Libertyville, IL - Austins 3 - Detroit, MI - Harpos 4 - Etobicoke, ON - The Rock Pile 5 - Cleveland, OH - Peabody's 7 - Springfield, VA - Jaxx 8 - Foxborough, MA - Showcase Live 9 - Asbury Park, NJ - The Stone Pony 10 - New York, NY - The Gramercy Theatre 11 - Allentown, PA - Crocodile Rock 16 - San Antonio, TX - Backstage Live 17 - Dallas, TX - Trees 21 - Tempe, AZ - Club Red 22 - Las Vegas, NV - Vamp'd 23 - Agoura Hills, CA - The Canyon Club 24 - San Juan Capistrano, CA - The Coach House VENGEANCE REVEALS THEIR CRYSTAL EYE: Dutch Hard Rock legends Vengeance will release their new studio album "Crystal Eye" on February 24th in Germany, February 27th in Europe and in March 2012 in the USA/Canada through SPV / Steamhammer. The album will be available as a limited edition DigiPack incl. 2 bonus tracks, standard jewel version and download. Tracklisting Digipak: 1. Me And You 04:02 2. Bad To The Bone 04:51 3. Barbeque 03:31 4. Shock Me Now 03:28 5. Five Knuckle Shuffle 04:10 6. Desperate Women 04:03 7. Whole Lotta Metal 04:11 8. Promise Me 03:43 9. Crystal Eye 06:13 10. Missing 04:51 11. Jans End Piece 01:16 12. Paint This Town 03:25 (bonus track) 13. Barbeque – radio edit 03:35 (bonus track). WebLinks: www.vengeanceonline.nl / www.spv.de.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Kansas' classic 80s album Power is being re-issued in Japan as a Cardboard Sleeve [SHM-CD] disc. It's out February 22. RockEyez has posted our Best Of 2011. Come read who we thought were the Best releases of the year and New comers to watch in 2012. I would also like to thank all the artists and readers that have supported our site and hopefully we can work together again next year. Happy Holidays. Check our list at www.rockeyez.com. Danny Vaughn from Tyketto chose BeRock Radio for the presentation of a song called Love To Love from their brand new upcoming Tyketto album that will be released early 2012. Listen here in this Video Danny Vaughn to talk about it: www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSvJMVSxwYA. Examiner.com has posted a new interview with Twisted Sister's Jay Jay French with his thoughts on A Twisted Christmas, the world after 9/11, and the band's looming 40th anniversary! www.examiner.com/music-q-a-in-national/q-a-with-biff-byford-of-saxon-on-call-to-arms. INTRODUCING DIRTSWITCH: Based in Naklo, Slovenia, modern rock/post-grunge band Dirtswitch formed in early 2009. Immediately focusing on writing their own material, the band hit the studio in February 2010. Their debut album Phoenix Down was released on Sept. 7th, 2011. The record features 12 tracks, seamlessly passing from high-octane mayhem of "Restaints" and "Too much" to the enchanting fading chords of "Today". The album is available internationally on iTunes. Heavily influenced by the grunge, modern rock and post-grunge artists of the past two decades, such as Alter Bridge, Soundgarden, King's X and Shinedown, the band's trademark sound is comprised of heavy, down-tuned riffs combined with powerful and memorable vocal lines. Dirtswitch have successfully promoted their music both home and abroad, appearing at some of Slovenia's biggest rock festivals (Majske igre, Schengenfest) as well as securing 8th place at the International Live Award on Maifest 2011's rock stage in Vienna, Austria. WebLink: www.dirtswitch.com.

 

 

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

ESCAPING YOUR WAY IN 2012: Escape Music have a busy 2012 planned, with a number of projects already in development, set for release next year. A brief description of what's in store is: Lee Small - Jamaica Inn (solo album) - January Human Temple - Halfway To Heartache - February Phenomena - Awakening (New Studio) - March - Featuring Terry Brook, Toby Hitchcock, James Christian, Rob Moratti, Ralf Scheepers, Mat Sinner, Chris Antblad, Magnus Karlsson, Lee Small, Tommy Denander and Mike Slamer. Produced by Tom Galley and Martin Kronlund. Departure - Hitch A Ride (New Studio) - April Overland - TBA [New Studio Album, In production with Christian Wolff (guitar), John Payne of Asia (Bass), Jay Schellen of Hurricane/Unruly Child (drums) and Mike Slamer (guitars/production)] Final Frontier - TBA (In production with Rob Moratti on lead vocals, and Mladen) Ozone - TBA (In production, Featuring Steve Overland and Chris Ousey with Mike Slamer on production duties. Gypsy Rose - TBA (Featuring Lee Small on lead vocals) Alliance - TBA (New Studio Album)(Robert Berry - Vocals [Solo, Hush, GTR, Ambrosia], Gary Pihl - Guitars [Boston, Sammy Hagar], David Lauser - Drums [Sammy Hagar], Alan 'Fitz' Fitzgerald - Keyboards (Sammy Hagar/Night Ranger] UFO'S SEVEN DEADLY ARRIVES FEBRUARY: British Hard Rock legends UFO will release their new studio album Seven Deadly on February 24 in Germany, February 27 in Europe and in March 2012 in the USA/Canada through SPV / Steamhammer. The album will be available as a limited edition DigiPack incl. 2 bonus tracks, double gatefold LP with 2 bonus tracks and orange vinyl, standard jewel version and download. Tracklisting DigiPack: 01. Fight Night 4:35 02. Wonderland 5:08 03. Mojo Town 3:58 04. Angel Station 6:25 05. Year Of The Gun 4:07 06. The Last Stone Rider 3:54 07. Steal Yourself 4:46 08. Burn Your House Down 5:15 09. The Fear 3:31 10. Waving Good bye 5:24 11. Other Men's Wives 4:09 (bonus track) 12. Bag O` Blues 5:21 (bonus track). TRACKLISTING Jewel Case: Same without above bonus tracks. Tracklisting LP: LP 1 Side A 01. Fight Night 4:35 02. Wonderland 5:08 03. Mojo Town 3:58 Side B 01. Angel Station 6:25 02. Year Of The Gun 4:07 03. The Last Stone Rider 3:54 LP 2 Side A 01. Steal Yourself 4:46 02. Burn Your House Down 5:15 03. The Fear 3:31 Side B 01. Waving Good bye 5:24 02. Other Men's Wives 4:09 (bonus track) 03. Bag O` Blues 5:21 (bonus track). WebLinks: www.ufo-music.info / www.spv.de.   xx DENNIS DEYOUNG: THE MUSIC OF STYX UNPLUGGED TO HEADLINE CANDLELIGHT CONCERT FOR EPILEPSY AWARENESS: On Saturday March 24, 2012, veteran rocker Dennis DeYoung (www.DennisDeYoung.com) will headline Candlelight Concert for Epilepsy Awareness. Dennis will be bringing a special show entitled Dennis DeYoung: The Music of Styx Unplugged and will bring his legendary musicianship and songs to this wonderful benefit concert with all proceeds going to the Epilepsy Foundation (www.efa.org) and the Epilepsy Foundation of New Jersey (www.efnj.org) The event, scheduled to be a four hour concert, will feature performances from many other iconic singers spanning three decades including Marshall Crenshaw (www.marshallcrenshaw.com), Corey Glover of Living Colour (www.livingcolourmusic.com), Dan Reed formerly of Dan Reed Network (www.danreed.com), Mary Fahl formerly of October Project (www.maryfahl.com), violinist Martha Curtis and others to be announced. The venue is the Patriots Theater at the War Memorial, One Memorial Drive, Trenton NJ. Doors for the event will open at 6:00pm with the show time being 7:00pm. No strobe lights will be used during this event and it is open to all ages. Tickets are available now at www.ComcastTix.com and at the Patriots Theater box office at 609-984-8400. Tickets range in price from $45 to $180 with a special VIP package including a signed poster and access to a special meet & greet. For more information on the Epilepsy Foundation, the venue and the artists announced can be found on the two pages following this release. Additional information can be found online at www.CandlelightConcert.org. Dennis DeYoung: The Music Of Styx Unplugged showcases the Greatest Hits spanning the 70's, 80's, and 90's performed live in a rare and intimate acoustic evening with Dennis on grand piano, plus August Zadra and Jimmy Leahey on acoustic guitars/vocals and Craig Carter on bass/vocals. Highlights of this acoustic format allows the purity of DeYoung's distinctive tenor to shine along with soaring four part harmonies, great musicianship and Dennis telling some of the stories behind these great songs. Dennis is a founding member of Styx. He wrote and sang lead on seven of the band's eight Top 10 hits (i.e. Babe, Come Sail Away, Lady, The Best of Times.) He is a legendary singer, songwriter, keyboardist, composer and record producer with a career spanning over 40 years. His voice is one of the most recognizable in the music world today and continues to inspire new generations of fans. For more information, visit CandlelightConcert.org. CRIMES OF PASSION SIGN RECORD DEAL WITH DR2 RECORDS: Returning from an extremely successful tour of Europe with Saxon & Anvil, Crimes of Passion are pleased to announce the signing of a deal for the second album To Die For with DR2 Records, home to acts such as Sebastian Bach and Therapy? The album, produced by Charlie Bauerfiend (Hammerfall, Helloween, Blind Guardian) will be released across Europe in February 2012. It also features guest vocals from Biff Byford (Saxon), and Andi Deris (Helloween). The European artwork has been done by Hugh Gilmour, famous for album covers for Whitesnake and Iron Maiden, amongst others. VERSAILLES' OZZY TRIBUTE: Heading into the holidays, Versailles Records is excited to announce the final track listing for their forthcoming 2CD 'No More Tears: A Millennium Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne,' set to cover Ozzy Osbourne's highlights from Ozzy's entire Black Sabbath and subsequent 30-year solo career. Rockers including Vince Neil (Motley Crue), George Lynch (Dokken, Lynch Mob), Keri Kelli (Alice Cooper Band, Ratt, LA Guns, etc), Mark Slaughter (Slaughter), Chris Poland (Megadeth), Stu Hamm (Joe Satriani band, Steve Vai band), Eric Singer (Kiss, Black Sabbath, Badlands, The Cult), and Derrick LeFevre (Lillian Axe) among others. Along with the aforementioned name players, the record will feature a global collection of many of the hottest rock and metal bands on the rise around the world, from Europe to Japan, South America to the former Soviet block, reflecting The Prince of Darkness's world-wide fan base. Featured Millennium bands will include: Takara, Leaving Eden, The Madeline Haze, Dirty Rose, Fierce Atmospheres, Kingshifter, Cryptic Chaos, Stone Dirt, W.A.N.T.E.D., Matvey, Shane Doss, Titan's Eve, Snakeskyn Whiskey, Bugsy Parker, Attica Rage, Sage4, Metal Horse, Critical Solution, Skyscreamers, Stalwart, High Voltage, Slant, Critical Solution, Dawn of the Final Day, Nasty Reputation,Kinoath, Ravage, REACT Metal, Tattoo Frank & Jeries, In His Blood, Alfreih, Quartermoc, Black Iris, Cornivus, Endless Vendetta, A New Decree, Annihilation, DrawZZNikk, All But Impossible, AL SOLO featuring Manuri, Martian Honey, Devil, Just One Fix, Mantasuka, Doom Dogs, Erling Solem, Mr. Thumb, Perry Mason, Dennis Deen, and Mr. Murray. The album will be released on May 8th, 2012 to retail nationally.

 

 

Monday, December 19, 2011

HUMAN TEMPLE's HALFWAY TO HEARTACHE DUE FEBRUARY ON ESCAPE: Finland's premier melodic hard rockers Human Temple are back and bring us a brand new release Halfway to Heartache. Their 2004 debut "Insomnia" received rave reviews, and the 2010 release "Murder of Crows" (ESM202) set pulses racing. Two years later and the wait for the third CD is over, so get ready for this fantastic new release. The album is due February 24 and features the following tracks: 1-I will follow 2- Bleeding through 3- Like a beat of a heart 4- Our world our time 5- Almost there 6- Run away 7- Little lies 8- Because of you 9- Misery 10- Some things are never long time ago 11- She talks to angels. Download 2 minute sample: Like A Beat Of A Heart The foundation of the Temple was laid way back in the late eighties, when vocalist Janne Hurme and drummer Petri Lehto formed their first band. The guys were highly influenced by Kiss, Dokken, Crüe and such bands, so the style of the music just had to be hard rock, yet always with a keen ear for a good melody. Fast forward to1995... Janne was signed as a solo artist, and given an album's worth of more pop type of material to sing. He sang it with conviction, and once the album was released, he became a major star almost overnight. Among other hits, the album spawned "Kirje", one of the biggest hits of the nineties in Finland. One could say that it's nowadays "an evergreen", played regularly on the radio stations, while Janne's solo career was blossoming, he didn't forget his roots, and kept writing hard rock songs. In 1998 he and Petri formed Human Temple, determined that this band would take the next step and become something bigger than their previous bands. After an initial buzz created via local gigs and the Internet, Human Temple were signed to the German label MTM Music, and their first album saw the light of day in the summer of 2004. Marquee Avalon released the album later that year in Japan. The next years passed quite fast, and the band went through a few line-up changes. In the summer of 2009, they felt that the time was right for album number two. They entered the Noise camp studio in Turku, chose the best 10 songs from their selection of new tracks, and started the recording process. The resulting "Murder Of Crows" stays true to the sound of the debut, while adding some new elements to it. It has since become a firm favourite amongst melodic hard rockers. The brooding "Halfway to Heartache" is an extension of the Human Temple sound, and they bring us 11 tracks of brilliant tunes that range from quirky rockers to powerful ballads. Songs like Run Away, Misery and Bleeding Through just ooze with class. This is a new age in the history of Human Temple and it's going to set 2012 off with a bang. Discography: Insomnia (2004) / Murder of Crows (2010) / Halfway to Heartache (2012). Line-up: Janne Hurme: Lead Vocals, Risto Tuominen: Guitars, Kalle Saarinen: Drums, Jori Tojander: Keyboards, Harri Kinnunen: Bass; Special guest musician: Emppu Vuorinen from Nightwish. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   xx LIBERTY & JUSTICE COMING TO BREAKFAST: Roxx Productions along with Liberty 'n' Justice are very pleased to announce for LNJ's 20th Anniversary (1992-2012) the release of their 11th studio album Hell is coming to Breakfast. This marks the bands second release on Roxx Records after a successful partnership on the Limited Edition charity CD entitled 'Chasing a Cure LP' that the two teamed up on earlier in 2011. 'Hell is coming to Breakfast is set for release on March 1, 2012 with pre-sales beginning now. Justin Murr of Liberty 'n' Justice has this to say about the release… "We recorded so many songs for our yet to be released 2 CD project entitled 'The Cigar Chronicles' and with the delay on this release not happening until late in 2012 or early 2013 we didn't want the fans to have to wait that long to get some new LNJ in their hands. So when Bill and Roxx Records approached me and asked if we had anything else up our sleeves we could release, we realized we had to many songs that were not all going to fit on 'Cigar' so we took the 6 songs that we couldn't fit and then recorded another brand new song which is the title track 'Hell is coming to breakfast' especially for this release and added 5 more previously unreleased rare cuts and demos just for this one, I am really excited for our fans to hear this collection." Bill from Roxx Records had this to say about the new release "We are very excited to be working with Justin and Liberty 'n' Justice once again, especially in the bands twentieth year! Justin and all the wonderful artists he works with continue to release nothing but top notch material and after twenty years it is just amazing how they keep coming up with so many great Melodic Rock songs again and again and again." In addition to the 7 brand new tracks and various demos and rarities we are very excited to be able to include on this release and on CD for the very first time ever the original acoustic demo version of 'Sin' featuring the late great Jani Lane of Warrant out front on vocals. Full Track Listing… 1. "Hell Is Coming To Breakfast" Seann Nichols (Adler's Appetite / Tarsha), JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ) 2. "Madhatter" Donnie Vie (Enuff Z' Nuff), JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Chris Dickens (Mission Of One) & Tommy Denander 3. "Whack A Mole" Johnny Lima, JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Jerry Johnson (Saint) & Richard Lynch (Saint) 4."Thankful Heart" Philip Bardowell (Magdalen/Unruly Child), Lynn Louise Lowrey (Vixen/Testify), & Anthony Gravley 5. "Nakatomi Plaza" JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Greg Bishop (X-Sinner) & Scott Weisenborn (Testify) 6. "Stretch Armstrong" Louis St August (Mass), JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ)& Keri Kelli (Alice Cooper) 7. "Get Down" Tony Mills (TNT/ Shy),Mark Allen Lanoue (Chasing Karma/ Bilioxi), & Anthony Gravley 8. "Your Memory Just Won't Do" [Previously unreleased on CD] David Cagle, Alex Grossi (Quiet Riot) & CJ Snare (Firehouse) 9. "Thy will be done" [demo] Jamie Rowe (Guardian) 10. 'What do you believe?" [Original demo of 'Do what you believe'] Mike Ledesma (Far Cry) Vic Rivera (Crunch) 11. "Monkey Dance" [Alternate Mix] Jack Russell (Great White) 12. "Sin" [Original Acoustic Demo] Jani Lane (Warrant) This is a Limited Edition CD Release for full details including pre-sale information and special packages please visit www.roxxproductions.com.   TANK TO RECORD FIRST LIVE DVD: Tank, the legendary British Heavy Metal Band, plan to record their first live DVD. The band featuring Mick Tucker and Cliff Evans on guitar alongside ex-Rainbow/Yngwie Malmsteen frontman Doogie White, ex-Bruce Dickinson bassist Chris Dale and ex-Helloween/Firewind drummer Mark Cross will record their show on March, 9th 2012 in Stodola Club in Warsaw (Poland). Cliff Evans: "We're really looking forward to making our first ever Official Tank Live DVD. It's something we've wanted to do for a long time and gives us the chance to show our fans around the world what a Tank show is all about. The DVD will include old favourites such as 'This Means War', 'Echoes of a Distant Battle' and 'Power of the Hunter' plus future classics such as 'Judgement Day' and 'Phoenix Rising' plus many more. Get ready for 'War Machine Live!' DVD." Tank has also begun their work on the follow up to the War Machine album from 2010. Doogie, Mick and Cliff have been busy writing new material. While it is too early to give details on the tracks, they are said to be in a similar vein to War Machine but with a heavier angle. Working song titles so far include, "One Thousand Deaths", "War Without End" and "Heavier Than Thou". The album is scheduled for release in Spring 2012. Full details to be confirmed soon. Tank - official website: tankofficial.com. POWER QUEST CONFIRMED TO SUPPORT FREEDOM CALL: Following on from an overwhelmingly successful first show with new vocalist Colin Callanan in Wakefield in November, Power Quest are pleased to announce they will be returning to Europe in March 2012 as special guests of German power metal legends Freedom Call. The dates are as follows: 08.03.12 Thu CH Pratteln @ Z7 09.03.12 Fri GER Kaufbeuren @ Allkart Halle (Partyraum) 10.03.12 Sat GER Aschaffenburg @ Colos-Saal 11.03.12 Sun GER Bochum @ Zeche Prior to that tour, Power Quest will be starting 2012 by headlining day 1 of the Arctic Festival in London, at the Bridgehouse2, on Friday January 6th.Tickets are available via the following link: thearcticagency.bigcartel.com In the meantime, the Power Quest camp would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and all the very best for the coming year. Thank you for all your support during 2011, especially everyone who came out to see us at Bloodstock, Hammerfest, on tour with Symphony X and Crimson Glory or at one of our own headline shows in the UK and Europe! See you somewhere on tour in 2012!

 

 

Friday, December 16, 2011

SEBASTIAN BACH - NEW VIDEO & SWEDEN ROCK APPEARANCE: Below is the new Sebastian Bach video, the song taken from his current album Kicking & Screaming. And in related news, Sebastian has been added to the lineup for next year's SwedenRock Festival. See below for details.   Sebastian Bach's colourful career started for real when he as a nineteen year old singer with a golden voice and rebellious nature joined the New Jersey-based group Skid Row. The bands impact was immediate as their self-titled debut album featured several now classic anthems such as "18 and life", "Youth gone wild" and "I remember you". The follow up "Slave to the grind" saw the band rub elbows with megastars Guns N' Roses, but Bach and Skid Row eventually parted ways. Soon the singer made himself a name as a highly acclaimed Broadway performer, while still maintaining a more low-key solo career as a rock singer. With big parts in long running musicals such as "Jekyll & Hyde", "Rocky horror show" and "Jesus Christ superstar" Bach perfected both his musical skills as well as his acting skills and later acted in several TV-shows. In2007 he made a highly prolific return to the metal scene when he released the solo album "Angel down", featuring Bach's friend Axl Rose on three songs. The follow up "Kicking & screaming" was released last fall and contains all the trademarks that have made Sebastian Bach one of the world's most charismatic entertainers: hard and melodic rock/metal with a couple of beautiful ballads thrown in for good measure. Tickets are available at our website: www.swedenrock.com. There you can also find more information about ticket prices and accommodation. JACK RUSSELL MAKES FINAL STATEMENT: Vocalist Jack Russell has made one final statement in relation to this week's back and forth with his former Great White band mates. It reads: "I am deeply hurt and saddened by the fact that my old friends and band mates would purposely exploit my personal and private medical conditions to try to prevent me from doing what I love. I can't even fathom as to why they would do such a thing and why they would want to personally hurt me so much. This is very upsetting considering that more than half of the band has had their own issues, demons, or personal problems at some point, all of which affected the band at one time or another. I am excited about the future and look forward to seeing all my friends on the road. My interview with Metal Sludge is the only one I will be doing right now, and I will make no further comments regarding this matter." ~ Jack Russell. X-UFO ANNOUNCE LIVE CD DETAILS: The new X-UFO Live CD THE LIVE FILES - Volume 1 is ready for launch. Pre-orders are available through nigel.hart@bt.com or via the website at www.xufo.co.uk. The full running order for the CD is as follows: Intro-Let It Roll, Natural Thing, Highway Lady, Back Door Man, Can You Roll Her, Love Deadly Love, Armed & Ready, She's The One, Love To Love, Only You Can Rock Me, Rock Bottom, (Encore): Lights Out, Doctor Doctor. There is also an exclusive video that we has been put together as a sweetener for the opening track-Let It Roll: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OH8uvsbg0fY.   BLANCAWHITE'S DEBUT 'CLASSIC ROCK' ALBUM: 1970's and 1980's style hard rock just can't be topped!! After all, that was the era during which such legendary bands as AC/DC and Van Halen unleashed some of the genre's greatest anthems. BlancaWhite's full-length, debut album, Resurgence of Rock, is a rallying cry for a global resurgence of the sounds that made rock n' roll great! Resurgence of Rock is original, in-your-face, classic-style hard rock, tweaked for the modern day. A unique combination of hard rock sounds from the 70's and 80's combined with lyrics and subjects from the perspective of today, Resurgence of Rock is sure to appeal to all fans of the classic rock era who are now at a different stage of their lives. Resurgence of Rock is an exciting, unique project put together by several die-hard rock fans, including international attorney Ken Savage and brothers Austin and Rick Schell. They have produced exactly the sort of rock music that die-hard fans want to hear, and have spared no expense or effort to produce a world-class rock album. Following the model of the Alan Parsons Project, Savage and the Schell's recruited top-notch talent for each of their original songs, including renowned 80s vocalists Paul Shortino (Quiet Riot and Rough Cutt), Terry Ilous (XYZ and Great White), Lorraine Lewis (Femme Fatale and L.A. Nookie), and Jeff Paris (Cinderella, Vixen, Slash and Keb Mo). The variety, quality, and unique combination of 'classic rock with a modern twist' set this album apart! Check out the band at: www.resurgenceofrock.com.   CHRISTMAS SONG 1: Norwegian hard rock band Malice In Wonderland have written and recorded a brand new Christmas song. The song is called When Everything's Red and you can find it on the band's YouTube page: www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9VL6zD8zkY. The band's front man Chris Wicked comments the song. "While the world doesn't exactly scream for another Christmas song, in my mind there is not allot of high quality Christmas songs out there. We thought it would be fun to write something original, not just record a classic, so we rigged up a studio in Tracy's (guitarist) living room and recorded everything in two days. It was fun and we're just putting it up on our YouTube site. It's not a typical Christmas song, but the tune has a great atmosphere that I think allot of people can find appealing." WebLinks: www.malice-in-wonderland.com / www.facebook.com/pages/maliceinwonderlandof. CHRISTMAS SONG 2: Featuring the soaring vocals of Sean Peck (Cage), the arrangement of the classic Christmas anthem is taken into the epic realm of heavy metal. All proceeds from iTunes will go to the charity "Metal For Cancer" to support cancer research. This is available for a strictly limited time. Empires of Eden's creator Stu Marshall comments: "This track came into being when I was hanging with Sean in California on a recent trip. It seemed a great way to honour a great song and at the same time offer something positive towards the fight for Cancer. The usual covers of Christmas carols are fairly comical and we wanted to take it the other way, much heavier and dramatic. Working with Sean on the last EOE cd was an incredible experience so it was natural for us to work on this". From singer Sean Peck: "Cancer has affected all of our lives directly or indirectly and we would encourage all metal heads to take the time to give just a small donation towards defeating this killer." With the recent success of the release by Cage – The Supremacy of Steel and the third Empires of Eden CD about to commence, this release is a must have for fans of metal music. You can buy the song here: itunes.apple.com/en/album/xmas-special-single/id489138573. Free streaming here: soundcloud.com/heavymetalmedia/we-three-kings-empires-of-eden. "We Three Kings" was produced at Frontier Studio in Sydney Australia - Vocals tracked by Dave Garcia at Cage studios. WebLinks: www.empiresofeden.com / www.cageheavymetal.com. CLASSIC ROCK MAGAZINE AOR ISSUE 5 ON SALE NOW: Sunset Strip superstars Mötley Crüe grace the cover of issue No.5 of Classic Rock Presents AOR. In an AOR world exclusive, we've got all-new interviews with all four Crüe members – Nikki Sixx, Vince Neil, Mick Mars and Tommy Lee. They consider the band's longevity and their final legacy – when not indulging in internal squabbles, airing beefs with other rock bands and evading the press. Nice to see some things don't ever change… Plus we name the Crüe's Top 10 Most Melodic Moments. And we tell the tale of Dr Feelgood, the 1989 breakthrough album that propelled the band into the big time. We've also got a sensational 15-track free CD, titled AORmania, featuring all-new tracks from Houston, Fiona, Grand Illusion, Fate, Reckless Love, Mecca and more. Elsewhere in the issue, we talk to Norwegian melodic rock goddess Issa about her sublime new album, The Storm. Former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach comes clean about loving power ballads, starring on Broadway and the tensions caused by being the hottest guy in your band. There's a revealing chat with the legendary David Crosby. Having lost his lover to a car crash and his mind to an ever-more-wild cocktail of illicit substances, in 1970 the former Byrd retreated to the studio and distilled these miseries into his haunted, transcendent, Vatican-approved solo album, If Only I Could Remember My Name. That's not all. There are further features on Shy, Y&T, Lindsey Buckingham, Tokyo, Doogie White, Davy Vain, Le Roux, Starship… and a six-page review of Firefest, the UK AOR scene's live event of the year, starring Jimi Jamison, W.E.T., Jeff Scott Soto, Steve Augeri, Strangeways, Newman, Coney Hatch, White Widdow, Mitch Malloy, Unruly Child… All this, plus reviews of all the latest AOR albums and live reviews of Def Leppard, Heart, the Electric Boys, The Union, Bret Michaels and more. Finally, we deliver our verdict on the controversial Rock Of Ages hair-metal musical – did we love it, or did we loathe it? Find out in issue No.5 of AOR! OnSale now - purchase via: www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk/classic-rock-presents-aor-5.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Impellitteri's classic Stand in Line album is getting a 2011 remaster and will be released in Japan January 25. Pre-Order here. The brand new video Get On With The Action with Swedish rockers Grand Design from the album Idolizer can be seen here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWb4gF7mHb0&feature=youtu.be. CHRISTMAS TIME AGAIN"ON INTHESTUDIO.NET' WITH LYNYRD SKYNYRD: This week InTheStudio.NET features a very special archive moment from Lynyrd Skynyrd's Gary Rossington, Johnny Van Zant, Rick Medlocke and the late Outlaws /Skynyrd guitarist Hughie Thomasson about their Christmas Time Again album, where they talk about the songs "Santa Claus Wants Some Lovin' ", "Mama's Song" and Lynyrd Skynyrd's cover of Chuck Berry's "Run Rudolph Run". The bittersweet personal comments from Johnny Van Zant and Rick Medlocke about the losses of their respective mothers is particularly touching when discussing the inspiration for the holiday ballad "Mama's Song". And the fact that Thomasson, bass player Leon Wilkeson and piano player Billy Powell all perform on these songs and are now all deceased, adds additional poignancy to the segment. The Medium Rare series is exclusive streamable online-only interview content found on the InTheStudio homepage. The InTheStudio.NET/ Lynyrd Skynyrd Christmas 'Medium Rare' segment will stream on the homepage for the remainder of December. Direct Link: www.inthestudio.net/online-only-interviews/christmas-rock/lynyrdskynyrd-christmas. FAITH CIRCUS ALBUM REMIXED AND OUT DIGITALLY: The long awaited re-mixed debut album from Norwegian classic/melodic rock sensation Faith Circus (Kivel Records, 2008) is to be available on iTunes/Spotify/Amazon MP3/and more...starting Dec. 24. The album contains guest appearances from members of well-known Norwegian hard rock bands such as TNT, Stage Dolls, Return & Jorn! Also included in the re-mixed version are two bonus tracks, one of which is a remake of the 1981 classic James Bond title track For Your Eyes Only! This time sung as a duet with the amazingly talented Robin Beck, who had a massive hit with her single "First Time" in 1988, after it appeared in a worldwide Coca Cola commercial the same year! CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: More hot new previews for upcoming releases added to the CD Showcase today. Featured titles are: House of Shakira (Lion Music, January 27 release); Mollo/Martin, Primal Fear & Beyond The Bridge (Frontiers Records, Jan 20 release); plus Mastercastle, Awake & Consortium Project 1 (Lion Music, out now). Check Showcases Out. MRX UPDATED: The MRX Members Area has been updated again, this week featuring the following: - Def Leppard - Live 1983-08-03 - Seattle, WA (17 killer tracks) - Lisa Hartman - 'Til My Heart Stops (Feature Album) - Lisa Hartman - Letterock (Feature Album) Join MRX Now.

 

 

Thursday, December 15, 2011

GIVE IT TO ME GOOD! TRIXTER ARE FIRING UP THE ENGINES FOR THEIR COMEBACK ALBUM: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of Trixter for the worldwide release of the band's reunion album in the spring of 2012! Formed in Paramus, New Jersey during 1983, Trixter would learn their chops playing live in the club circuit around their hometown with the likes of Skid Row and Kix, before eventually getting signed by Mechanic/MCA for their self-titled debut album in 1990, which spawned the Billboard Hits & # 1 MTV Videos Give It To me Good, One in a Million and Surrender and went on to become gold. The band toured nationally during 1990-91 sold out arena tours with Poison, Scorpions and Warrant. Trixter's second album, Hear!, was released in October 1992, touring in support of Kiss. Unfortunately the change of musical climate made it impossible for the band to keep going so, after the release of an independent covers album, the band called it quits in 1995. Trixter finally announced the reunion of the original lineup in 2007. Since then the band played several shows, including a successful appearance at the Rocklahoma festival in 2008. "The band has been playing together for the last 4 years, so making a new record is the next logical step," tells guitarist Steve Brown. "We are all very excited: the new cd will be entitled New Audio Machine and is a classic style Melodic Hard Rock album. All the sounds people have loved about Trixter will be there... Great songs, big guitar riffs, catchy vocals and a huge bottom end. A total big rock production!" Trixter are now formed by Pete Loran on lead vocals and guitar, Steve Brown on lead guitar, P.J. Farley on bass and Gus Scott on drums. "We take pride in the fact that we are one of the few bands of our genre that have all original members," says Brown. With an arsenal of great new songs and a catalogue of two successful releases Trixter are looking forward to bring their songs on stage, "We are hoping to land a support slot on one of the major summer tours," concludes Brown. "And we finally hope to play our first European tour as well." Get ready for the return of Trixter! Weblinks: www.frontiers.it / www.trixterrocks.com.   THE BIG SCREEN BECKONS ROCK OF AGES: The first video trailer for the much talked about Rock Of Ages movie has been released. It certainly looks interesting and if anything - a big budget affair. And anything that brings classic rock to the masses is a good thing in my mind. Check it out:   JET RED'S LOST SECOND ALBUM RE-RELEASED FOR SECOND TIME: US melodic rockers Jet Red have taken it upon themselves to re-release the Flight Plan CD after their label Suncity Records went out of business some time back. The (twice!) lost second album Flight Plan was re-released on iTunes and Amazon in MP3 format on 11-11-11 and the CD was re-issued on Jet Red Records in a CD only package, although the bonus DVD can be ordered as well via the website and also a bonus CD of unreleased tracks. Jet Red bassist Brad Lang is of course now an official member of Y&T and singer Willie Hines continues to write and release music. WebLink: www.jetred.com.   UPDATES TO FM UK TOUR DATES: From the FM newsdesk: "A couple of updates re the Indiscreet 25Live show in Manchester on Friday March 9th. The show has been moved up to Academy 2 due to demand for tickets, they're available from www.ticketline.co.uk. Special Guests on all three Indiscreet 25Live shows are Romeo's Daughter. The Deborah Bonham Band have now been added to the Manchester show in addition to opening at Shepherd's Bush on March 10th. March 08 2012 Glasgow Cathouse www.triplegmusic.com March 09 2012 Manchester Academy 2 www.ticketline.co.uk March 10 2012 London O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire www.ticketweb.co.uk INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Remember Vixen? Well RockEyez caught up with lead guitarist Jan Kuehnemund for a little chat. Come hear our audio interview on RockEyez. www.rockeyez.com Amanda Somerville is an American singer-songwriter and vocal coach best known for her collaborations with various European metal bands (Avantasia, Epica, Kamelot, After Forever, Kiske/Somerville). and Trillium is a new melodic metal project which sees Amanda taking centre stage. New album Alloy blends a range of elements from within the Rock and Metal genres, to form an exciting, cohesive sound characterised by memorable songs with attention-grabbing musical and vocal arrangements. Amanda will be interviewed on Rich Davenport's Rock Show on Thursday, 15th December, and the interview will feature her choice of tracks from "Alloy", including a duet with Jorn Lande. The show will be broadcast from 7-8pm UK time on Thursday, 8th December at this link www.salfordcityradio.org/shows.php?id=577 and from Friday, 16th December, the show will be available at www.mixcloud.com/richdav1. The show will also feature a mix of classic tracks and killer new cuts from AC/DC, Beggars & Thieves, Blackfoot, Sons of Icarus, Thin Lizzy, Reckless Love and Ozzy Osbourne. CD SHOWCASE UPDATE: 4 new CD Showcases online today - all promoting the new Avenue Of Allies December releases - Coastland Ride (new album and re-issue); Angeline and Iain Ashley Hersey (best of). Check them out.

 

 

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

NEW AOR DREAM FROM SWEDEN! SONIC STATION TO DEBUT IN FEBRUARY 2012 ON FRONTIERS: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing to the label of a brand new Artist Sonic Station for the release of their self-titled debut album on February 24 in Europe and February 28 in North America. Sonic Station is a new Westcoast-AOR Project put together by Alexander Kronbrink (a Swedish guitarist, composer and producer). Alexander is a young musician who learned his skills playing with Smooth Jazz star Jonathan Fritzén. Later on – after being introduced to Lee Ritenour - Alexander started to see a clearer direction in his playing. Through Ritenour he discovered the music of such giants as Steely Dan, Kenny Loggins, composer and producer David Foster and guitarist Jay Graydon, among others. Alexander says: "I have always been interested in guitarists with the ability to play everything from Jazz, to Pop, to Country, to Hard Rock. I have listened a lot to American session guitarists such as Steve Lukather, Michael Landau and Dan Huff. I guess that type of guitar playing is what have influenced me the most." From the very beginning the Sonic Station project has been based in the 80's AOR music (influenced by Toto, Mr. Mister and Journey) and the West Coast-sound of Airplay and Chicago. The resulting album "Sonic Station" is an expressive and warm record, where each song has an obvious and immediate hit feeling. "The focus is on melody and the Sonic Station sound is a meticulous and exciting mixture of Pop, Rock and Jazz", explains Kronbrink. To get the most quality out of each track Alexander, who composed ten of the songs and also produced and arranged the whole record, engaged four singers with different styles and voices: Marika Willstedt (from the Swedish TV show "Så ska det låta"), Magnus Bäcklund (member of the Swedish duo "Fame"), Kristoffer Fogelmark and Tove Lo. There are many musicians working on the album but the three contributing the most are Alexander's close friends Jonathan Fritzén (on keyboards – a smooth Jazz solo artist who reached #1 on the Billboard Indicator Smooth Jazz Chart), Henrik Linder (on bass – Dirty Loops, Work of Art) and Aron Mellergård (on drums – Dirty Loops). All of them are accomplished musicians and gave their contribution for the final result. "I definitely think Sonic Station will have a life on stage and I expect that we will be able to do some shows in the coming months" concludes Alexander Kronbrink. "Sonic Station" includes the following songs: Intro; Love's Gonna Show The Way (Feat. Magnus Bäcklund); I Wish I Could Lie (Feat. Marika Willstedt); Hold On To Me (Feat. Kristoffer Fogelmark); You Have To Let Me Go (Feat. Tove Lo); The Most Beautiful Fear (Feat. Magnus Bäcklund); Running Through The Night (Feat. Marika Willstedt); Never Let The Sunshine Die (Feat. Kristoffer Fogelmark); My Last Refrain (Feat. Marika Willstedt); Love You More (Feat. Marika Willstedt & Kristoffer Fogelmark); Reasons (Feat. Marika Willstedt). With Sonic Station, Alexander Kronbrink has taken the 80's into the future. WebLinks: www.sonic-station.com / www.frontiers.it.   xx GREAT WHITE SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT: Great White have responded to yesterday's statement from original vocalist Jack Russell. It reads as follows: "First and foremost, our main concern is our fans. We have spent 30 years trying to be the best we can be and bring our fans the top quality of music they have become accustomed to and deserve. It saddens us today to have to respond to Jack Russell's announcement. Jack Russell announced on Facebook on Saturday, December 10, 2011 that he was returning to Great White with a new lineup. This was a complete shock to the entire Great White family. This couldn't be further from the truth. As we all know, Jack Russell has been fighting drug and alcohol abuse for many years. He has had numerous stints in and out of treatment facilities and hospitals. In 2010 Jack's physical condition deteriorated to the point that he routinely fell on and off stage, forgot lyrics and we had to cancel shows due to his inability to perform. In the past two years, Jack has had five major surgeries and has almost died three times. His drug abuse was so bad that his body began to shut down and ultimately resulted in colostomy surgery from a perforated bowel (he nearly died during this procedure). The colostomy surgery saved his life, but vanquished him with a colostomy bag for a year. We stood by Jack; we supported his sobriety and eagerly awaited his return. Jack was first slated to return to Great White this past summer. Unfortunately, his frail body and his drug abuse prohibited this event. In the following months, Jack had three more surgeries that delayed his return. Finally, he chose February 2012 as his target return date. We had five clear conditions for Jack's return: 1. Jack had to be drug free. Off all opiates, methadone, Valium or Xanax. 2. Jack had to be off prednisone (a steroid that ate away at Jack's internal organs that caused the perforated bowl). 3. Jack had to be sober and off crack cocaine and all alcohol. 4. Jack had to agree to weekly drug tests. 5. Jack must attend weekly meetings for AA and NA. Last week Jack notified management he would not make it back by February 2012. Jack referred to his doctor's opinion that he would not be ready. He had just started physical rehabilitation again and his legs and back needed more rehab to handle the rigors of touring. Jack thought he would be ready by May to start the summer touring season. However, he wasn't sure if he could be off the methadone by then or ever. Management reiterated that he had to be completely drug-free for his return. He owed it to the fans. He owed it to us. He owed it to himself. Out of nowhere, we all received an email on Saturday, December 10, 2011 stating that he was coming back now and that he was starting his own (a different lineup) Great White. As you can imagine, this was shocking, to say the least. We were saddened and hurt from this shocking announcement. We only want to do right by our fans. We aim to give the best possible show and have every fan leave the show feeling they got their money's worth. This band is sober and music is our passion. With Jack Russell not being drug-free and unable to physically perform on stage, it will only let down our fans. Time and again, Jack Russell has let down his band and fans. His addictions have ruined his life the past eight years. We will not sit by and enable our brother to abuse alcohol and drugs to kill himself. We have lost too many loved ones to this madness. After the passing of our dear friend, the talented Jani Lane, it has become more evident that this has to stop. It must end. Since Jack's departure in August 2010, Great White has performed almost 100 concerts. We've had no shortened sets, cancelations or song choice limitations due to vocal issues. In this struggling economy, fans need and deserve more — not less. We owe it to our fans and the promoters to not to allow Jack Russell and some garage band to hurt Great White's classic rock legacy and bright future. Jack Russell does not have the right to start his own Great White or use the name without our names in the lineup. We will litigate any promoter that books 'Jack Russell's Great White' or uses any logo featuring the name Great White. We give you our word, we will continue through 2012 and beyond to provide you with the top-quality musical performances you have been accustomed and deserve. We hope and pray that Jack gets healthy, happy and sober. His health and well being is the only thing that matters." And Jack Russell responds further with a brand new Metal Sludge interview: www.metalsludge.tv/home/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2638&Itemid=38. NINTH LIFE FOR LAST AUTUMN'S DREAM: The new Last Autumn's Dream album Nine Lives will get an advance Japanese release today. The new studio album features the track listing: 1. In A Perfect World 2. Nine Lives 3. Is This Just Another Heartache 4. Merry-Go-Round 5. Golden Cage 6. All I Can Think Of 7. Megalomania 8. The Last To Know 9. Angel Eyes 10. We Never Said Goodbye 11. Waited A Long Time 12. Don't Let Love Fade Away. Pre-Order via CD Japan.   7TH HEAVEN LIVE AT SCHAUMBURG SEPTEMBERFEST DVD NOW AVAILABLE: News direct from Chicago's finest - 7th heaven: "Over the past month I have been editing the Schaumburg Fest DVD that we played this past Labor Day. It was so amazing to me to see so many of our fans come out and support us the way you all did. I had tears in my eyes and goose bumps watching everyone share such a special night of music and good times. There's pinnacle moments in our 27 year history that I can look to and say we reached a milestone and this DVD, to me, is a milestone for 7th heaven. Thousands of fans all having a great time and we played a great show. This is the first DVD we have released that has our entire 90+ min show, including some covers and our 30 songs in 30 minutes. The audio is right off the desk and was re-mastered in the studio for stereo. The video was shot mostly in HD 1080p, some cameras are fan cams at lower resolution up sampled to fit 16 x 9 HD. There are 10 camera angles. If you were at this show and up front, it is very likely you are on the DVD. The DVD also includes bonus footage, a photo montage from the show, as well as our music video for "Sing" in HD. You can order the DVD here: www.7thheavenband.com/pages/store/schaumburg.html and it will be available to purchase next weekend at our shows. It's that time of year again where we discount our products and offer some excellent deals on our merchandise for Christmas. Take a look at our store and see the Holiday Sale we have going on. www.7thheavenband.com/pages/store/christmas2011sale.html. We have also lowered our prices on a few items in our store, check it out! We just re-released our CD Faces Time Replaces with a added unreleased DVD in a DigiPack for $5.00. This lineup had: Tony DiGiulio, Richard Hofherr, Nick Cox, Danny Weymouth and Dan Miller. From the year 2000. This CD is a little heavier than the style we currently have. The DVD has unreleased videos of 7th heaven on Jenny Jones TV show (twice), as well as our ins and outs to commercial, as well as a few music videos. With a bonus video of our tribute to 9-11 with our song "I Don't Know". You can now order this CD online at: www.7thheavenband.com/pages/store/faces.html. In 2005 we shot a live concert of only original songs at Durty Nellies. This DVD and CD was not available for a long time, as it sold-out right away and the band changed line-ups. I decided to re-release a short run of them, as I would love our fans to see and understand a little of the bands history. This DVD has excellent audio right off the mixing board and was shot with 13 cameras, many which were fan cameras. This product is $5.00. You can now order this on our website at this address: www.7thheavenband.com/pages/store/nellies.html.   FORMER KISS GUITARIST BRUCE KULICK RETURNS TO AUSTRALIA: Can you believe that it was 25 years ago in 2012 that Kiss' top 3 single (UK) and biggest anthem since the 70s was released when Crazy, Crazy Nights ruled MTV? Can you believe that it also 20 years ago since Kiss' drummer Eric Carr passed away (1991) from cancer and Kiss returned with Eric Singer in the drum stool and released its heaviest album since 1982's Creatures of the Night with Revenge or when Kiss went as dark as they ever did with Carnival of Souls in 1997? It was 1984 when Bruce Kulick made his recording debut with Kiss ghosting on the 1984 smash hit album Animalize, the second album released without the trade mark make up.  Bruce went on to record 1985's Asylum, 1987's Crazy Nights, 1988's Smashes Thrashes & Hits, 1989's Hot In The Shade, 1992's Revenge, 1993's Alive III, 1996's Unplugged and 1997's Carnival of Souls. Bruce Kulick remembers the era well and is coming to Australia to blast out some of the classic tracks that made up these multi-platinum selling albums in February 2012. "Australia was one of the countries that Kiss didn't perform live between 1981 and 1994, there was a 15 year gap between 1980 and 1995 when the band finally made its return.  We have a lot of catching up to do and celebrate the songs from that era - some of which Kiss never played live ever, or only on rare occasions." Bruce said. After releasing his third solo album in early 2010, BK3, Bruce has remained incredibly busy performing all over the US with the "American Band" Grand Funk Railroad, performing live all over the world solo and with ESP, in addition to his session work and contributions to Kiss' multi-platinum Kissology DVD series. Bruce's two Australian shows are on sale now from the venues and websites below: Melbourne – Thursday 2 February The Corner Hotel Swan Street Richmond www.cornerhotel.com Ph 03 9427 9198 Sydney – Saturday 4 February The Factory Theatre www.factorytheatre.com.au Ph 02 9550 3666 Official Website: www.kulick.net.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Two hour Magnum special this Sunday 18th December at 22:00GMT at: www.getreadytorock.com. First hour of music introduced by Malcolm Dome of 'Classic Rock' and the second hour features an interview with the band. There are also two interviews with: Mark Stanway www.youtube.com / Tony Clarkin & Bob Catley www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIJr7H-pF5Y. Stan Bush's The Touch was featured last night on WWE Monday Night Raw: www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxKms8bh9JY. Grammy-winning gospel group, The Blind Boys of Alabama join Daryl Hall for a very special 49th edition of Live From Daryl's House, premiering Dec. 15 exclusively at www.lfdh.com. Drummer Bobby Jarzombek (Fates Warning, Riot, Sebastian Bach, Halford) has posted Part 3 of 'In the Studio' with Arch/Matheos on his official YouTube channel at this location: www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMlfjZhNlSI. Kingcrow has begun the recording sessions for the new album titled In Crescendo. You can find information about the album on their new blog diary (kingcrow-band.blogspot.com/). Videos/photos of the recording sessions will be soon available. In the meantime, the band published a video documentary of the last European Tour. You can see it at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgR4DqQjIh8 (for English subtitles use the "cc" function of the YouTube player). A new Lana Lane album in due first up in Japan January 25.

 

 

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

GREAT WHITE SPLIT IN TWO AS JACK RUSSELL RETURNS TO DUTY: Good news for Great White fans is that vocalist Jack Russell appears to have recovered from his lengthy hospital stay and is ready to hit the road again. Bad news is - it won't be with the classic GW line-up - which will continue on with Terry Ilous on vocals. From Jack Russell: "To all my friends: Just wanted to announce that I will be coming back with my band Great White and a Brand New line up. My new band mates are some of the most incredible musicians I have ever had the privilege to play with, Matt Johnson former guitarist for Great White, Derrick Pontier former drummer for Great White, Dario Seixas former Bassist for Firehouse and the Stephen Pearcy Band, and Robby Lochner former Guitarist for Rob Halford's Band and Cherie Currie. I am very excited about this new beginning. I am feeling better than ever, despite any rumors you may hear to the contrary. Unfortunately, and as confusing as it will be, my former band mates and their manager have decided to continue to tour next year under the name I created, Great White. I will be touring under the name Great White featuring Jack Russell, to try avoid any confusion. So now the true fans will know the difference. I will be announcing tour dates as soon as they become available. Our first performance will be at the Pre-NAMM Jam January 14 2012. Only shows advertised as Great White featuring Jack Russell will include myself on vocals. I have missed all of you terribly and look forward to seeing you all on the road. You have no idea how much your love and devotion has meant to me during what has been one of the hardest periods of my life. Happy Holidays! Much peace and love to you and your families. Have a blessed New Year. Yours as always, Jack Russell, founder and lead vocalist, Great White."   THERE'S A NEW BUZZ ABOUT VOICE OVERS: Press Release: "Hi kids! Chuck Duran here with some amazing information you'll definitely want to read. Once in a while an idea comes along with the power to take an entire industry by storm and this is it! Chuck Duran and Stacey J. Aswad are producing and host a new web series that is getting the attention of voiceover superstars worldwide. VO Buzz Weekly is exactly what the voiceover industry needs and Chuck and Stacey are the first ones to bring it to you. The show premieres Sunday January 8, 2012. Finally, the world can put a face to the voice of their favorite television shows, cartoons, animated films, movie trailers, video games, announcers, promos and more. Also making appearances on the show are the voiceover industry's top talent agents, directors, producers, marketing gurus and studio tech experts. Whether you're a pro or an aspiring voiceover artist, you can expect to receive an endless supply of wisdom and knowledge from the best and most successful talent the industry has to offer. And if that wasn't enough, VO Buzz Weekly also brings you the latest and greatest voiceover news that you need to know pertaining to business, media, technology and entertainment. Shockingly, subscribing to the VO Buzz Weekly web series is absolutely FREE. Go to VOBuzzWeekly.com right now and subscribe so you don't miss one single episode. Happy Holidays to all my awesome VO friends!" ~ Chuck Duran - www.DemosThatRock.com.   LA GUNS (TRACII VERSION) LOSES SINGER THEN GAINS ANOTHER: This from Metal Sludge, who have been following the farcical situation with the Tracii Guns version of LA Guns - who just last week cancelled all upcoming tour dates. First this - "The rest of the LA Guns Tour has been cancelled. Sorry to all the fans. I never quit. Tracii walked out sayiing thank you, it was fun while it lasted. This band is a fukn joke. I have a publisher fir a book. Starting on monday. I HATE that I have to give tracii this credit but oh well...I have ALL the notes written n some recorded about this very fukd up LA Guns tour!! One day, you will understand! My music will never die. Going into the studio in Feb 2012 with my NEW cd!!!" ~ Dilana. Then this - "It's been an exciting weekend in the rock world with news of a new LA Guns singer. We heard from Tracii Guns that he was hooking up with former Blacklist Union frontman Tony West to fill in for LA Guns. This after the Dilana experiment only lasted 71 days. What Tracii forgot to tell us, is that Tony West is a TV star. He might even have more TV time under his belt than Dilana had with her Rockstar Supernova gig. Tony West has appeared on The Jerry Springer Show, Maury Povich, Geraldo Rivera, The Riki Lake Show (twice), The Richard Bey Show, and some of these clips even made it onto the great Talk Soup. All of this is on YouTube and seems to be presented by Tony "The Roach" West." Oh dear! See it al at: www.metalsludge.tv/home/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2633&Itemid=42. SWEET SOUNDS ROCKFEST 2 TURNING INTO NATIONAL FESTIVAL: The Sweet Sounds Rockfest 2 is becoming one of the biggest festivals in the USA. "We are getting bands coming from different states throughout the USA" stated CEO Ron Berman. "All of the artists that have signed with us have opened up for major artists and have headlined major festivals. So many artists have reached out to us wanting to perform at the festival. We had a packed house back in October at Sweet Sounds Rockfest in St. Louis at Club 21 Rock and some of the bands want to return to the Chicago show. We are very gracious to Bob Cozza of The Penny Road Pub who opened his doors for us to have this festival. We are currently listening to various bands who have submitted mp3s and videos to fill in the few remaining slots." Any band interested in playing Sweet Sounds Rockfest 2 on April 28th 2012 - at The Penny Road Pub - which will be hosted by international comedian Jim Florentine - please contact Ron (rberman48@aim.com) or Duke (sweetsoundsvp@hotmail.com). Bands confirmed at this time are Strikeforce (Missouri), Lynch (Illinois), Scarred (L.A. California), Matt & The City Limits (New York City), Thirteen-A- Cross (Missouri), The Air On Everest (Wisconsin), Age Of Distrust (Ohio), The Knobs (Iowa). Anyone interested in attending the Sweet Sounds Rockfest 2 on Saturday April 28th tentative start time 1 PM till 1 AM or longer - please go to www.showclix.com/event/204951 to purchase advanced tickets. If you are coming from out of town we recommend to make a motel/hotel reservation now in the South Barrington area. We will keep you updated as new bands are added to the show.   RANDY RHOADS CELEBRATION A SUCCESS: On December 3rd, 2011 The Rhoads family hosted the "A Celebration of Randy Rhoads" event at D'Argenzio's Winery in Burbank, California. The event was for what would have been Randy's 55th birthday (His B-Day is actually December 6th) and to celebrate the life of the late (Quiet Riot/Ozzy Osbourne) guitarist. The evening was MC'd by Mr 80's Julian Douglas and Cathy and Kelle Rhoads spoke (Randy's brother and sister) to the crowd to kick off the evening. There was original Randy Rhoads stage clothes and memorabilia on display. Kelle Rhoads (Randy's brother) and guitarist Ronny North performed very special solo sets that concluded when Kelle and Ronny performed together at the end of the event. The attendance was so over whelming with all the Randy fans that the venue had to open the side doors up and put tables outside to accommodate everyone. Some of the attendees were Quiet Riot drummer Frankie Banali (Frankie also came up and jammed during the show with Kelle Rhoads), legendary rock photographer Neil Zlozower was also in attendance as well as a ton of press from around the country. The event was a great success and best of all it was all in the name of the great Randy Rhoads.   ROYAL HUNT - TOUR DATES AVAILABLE: Royal Hunt has now released their 11th - studio album: Show Me How To Live. The band once more joined forces with former lead singer DC Cooper to continue the magic of Royal Hunt. So with this current line-up, the fans as well as the critics, are about to get a fresh taste of the powerful and rejuvenated Royal Hunt. The band is willing to tour in Europe next year (time schedule around March - April to be defined) and if you're interested in having them, please contact the agent responsible of the booking here. INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Saxon Vocalist Biff Byford featured in new The Right to Rock Podcast. Biff took time out of his busy schedule to discuss Saxon's latest release Call to Arms. Biff also discusses the bands current tour as well as their most Spinal Tap moment. Interview lasts approx. 30 min. What's better than seeing Saxon live in the states? Meeting Biff Byford, of course. And that's just what Genghis & Ragman recently did for An Evening With...Biff Byford. Join the boys as they discuss Saxon's recent stop in H-Town, as well as their latest record, Call to Arms, following it up with a live interview with His Biffness. Biff and the band rolled out the welcome mat at Stereo Live to discuss the Saxon's first proper tour on U.S. soil in years, as well as what keeps them motivated after 40 years of rocking. Horns up, indeed. RockEyez Audio interview with James Christian House of Lords: www.rockeyez.com. Guitar virtuoso Eric Johnson - best known for his instrumental 'Cliffs of Dover' and long-time G3 performances - if featured in a new interview here: www.randyfalsetta.com/#!audio-interviews. Eric talks about the new 'Up Close' tour, his gear and his admiration toward the legendary Jimi Hendrix. A new Spanish interview with André Andersen can be found here: www.rockmelodico.com/2011/12/andre-andersen-entrevista-exclusiva-con-el-lider-de-royal-hunt.html.

 

 

Monday, December 12, 2011

UNISONIC ANNOUNCES DEBUT RELEASE: Unisonic - the brand new European hard rock supergroup will release their debut release (a mini-album) Ignition on 27.01.2012 via Edel Records (Germany); on 25.01.2012 via Marquee Label (Japan) and on 30.01.2012 in the UK via earMUSIC. The line-up is: Kai Hansen (Gamma Ray, ex Helloween); Michael Kiske (ex Helloween); Mandy Meyer (ex Gotthard, ex Krokus); Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69); Kosta Zafiriou (Pink Cream 69). Check the official audio premier here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=9og0g_l-NlI. FnA RECORDS ANNOUNCES D'MOLLS RETURN: Ex-Atlantic Records recording artist D'Molls are back with a new 2011 album under the moniker of Desi Rexx's D'Molls. The new album aptly entitled D-Sides is a collection of B-sides, rare tunes and unreleased material. The 18 track album, available on FnA Records - www.fnarecords.net - takes the listener on a wild (pre-seat belt) roller-coaster ride through some classic D'Molls tunes and then down around the bend with some tracks that will delight, surprise, and titillate. The one constant throughout is the mesmerizing and catchy blues rock vocals of lead singer Desi Rexx - the same vocal stylings that have made D'Molls a cult favorite straight out of the Midwest hard rock scene. D-Sides features some notable talent from the hard rock world including Andy Parker of UFO, Chip Znuff of Enuff Znuff, Mick Sweda of the Bulletboys, Bobby Barth of Axe, John Thomas of the Lita Ford band, P.J. Smith of No Sweat, and Danny Johnson who has played with Alice Cooper, Rod Stewart, Derringer, Steppenwolf, and Axis. D-Sides opens with a toe-tapping, finger snapping bluesy ditty entitled "Snazzy Shoes" that could easily have been a bonus track for either of the two Atlantic Records albums. Without missing a beat the album soars into a handful of rockers starting with M-O-N-E-Y featuring Bobby Barth from the band Axe. The following 3 tracks (All I Want, HI 'n' LO, Crimes Of Fashion) are the original 3 song demo sessions that got the band signed to Atlantic Records back in 1987. The remainder of the album features fun and collectible rarities and rockers, and even a ballad or two for all of you slow dancers. From his Glam-O-Rama days with St. Valentine and D'Molls, through his whirlwind ride as guitarist for David Lee Roth, down to his 'Still on tour doin' what I love doin' second best!' present, Desi has remained the consummate entertainer both live and in the studio. Someone recently asked him why he never slows down. Desi (never at a loss for words) answered, 'Y'know, most music usually makes things a little better. My music always makes everything a lot better! People smile and forget their troubles for a while. It's like Shake 'n' Bake. . . and I helped!" In these uncertain economic times, one thing is certain: There is no better value for your Hard Rock Dollar than to get yourself a copy of this particular CD. FnA Records, LLC. formed in 2009 to bring Rockers and Metalheads some of the best unreleased and hard-to-find music from the 80's and early 90's. We are also a label that allows you, the fans to bring us music that you remember from "Back In The Day", and to have it professionally released. To pick up your copy, visit the website at: www.fnarecords.net. HELP FOR JAPAN: The first anniversary of the disastrous earthquake in Japan will be on March 11, 2012. The aftermath of this catastrophe is still apparent, and to the present day the Japanese people are facing the impact of the events. The population of the affected area has not been able to completely return to their everyday live and the people are still grateful for our help. Some of Europe's leading Rock artists have united to join a campaign initiated by singer Tommy Heart (Soul Doctor, Fair Warning) and recorded a tremendous new version of the classic Beatles song "Help". The EP Help! For Japan will be released in Europe on the German label Avenue Of Allies in early March 2012. All income from the sales of this project will be donated to the Japanese Red Cross. This EP includes the following four songs: 1. Help! 2. Help! (Tommy Heart Version) 3. Help! (Guitar Version) 4. Help! (Extended Version) The musicians: Don Airey (Keyboards & Piano, Deep Purple), Leo Leoni (Guitar, Gotthard), Neil Murray (Bass, ex Whitesnake), Hena Habegger (Drums, Gotthard) The singers: Tobias Sammet (Edguy, Avantasia), Bob Catley (Magnum), Andi Deris (Helloween), Torstein Flakne (Stage Dolls), Marc Storace (Krokus), David Readman (Pink Cream 69), Claus Lessmann (Bonfire), Oliver Hartmann (Hartmann), Bernhard Weiss (Axxis), Michael Kiske (Unisonic), Tony Mills (TNT), Carsten Lizard Schulz (Evidence One) and Tommy Heart (Soul Doctor, Fair Warning). The solo guitar players: Cede Dupont (Downspirit), Kyoji Yamamoto (BowWow), Helge Engelke (Fair Warning), Roland Grapow (Masterplan), Leo Leoni (Gotthard), Henny Wolter (Nitrogods), Robert R. Rodrigo (Airless). All "HELP!" versions produced and mixed by Tommy Heart, Tommy Remm & Rene Schostak (Valicon). Vocal Arrangement by Tommy Heart. Solo Guitar Arrangement for "Help" (Guitar Version) by Helge Engelke. Audio mastering by TMM/Tom Müller Berlin/Germany. Cover artwork "Help! For Japan" designed by Kai Swillus. Please support us on this project by publishing these news and clicking on the 'like button' on the Facebook site mentioned below or subscribe to our blog for the latest updates! www.facebook.com/help.charity / helpforjapan1.wordpress.com (blog).   FREDERIC SLAMA'S 10TH AOR OUTING: AOR Blvd Records is excited to announce the return of Frederic Slama AOR project with the release of a brand new studio album The Colors Of LA on January 27 in Europe. After two years of hard work, Frédéric Slama is back with the most anticipated album of the year called AOR The Colors Of L.A, featuring a never seen cast of AOR talents in a single album such as Tommy Denander, Philip Bardowell, Jerry Hludzik (Dakota), Joe Pasquale, Steve Newman, Joey Summer, Bill Champlin (Chicago), Christian Tolle, Steve Lukather, Michael Landau, David Foster, Randy Goodrum, Michael Thompson, Rick Riso, David Diggs, Bruno Levesque (Silence) and many more. Co-produced by Tommy Denander, The Colors Of L.A, AOR's 10th Release, is the perfect mix between melodic rock & Westcoast music. The sound is heavier this time in the vein of Toto, Foreigner or Survivor. Great Melodies, Fabulous solos and brand new recorded versions of favorites like Teach Me How To Love You Again or You're My Obsession. The Colors Of L.A contains all the elements of a classic. Pure AOR bliss! Tracklisting: 1.Jenny At Midnight 2.Benedict Canyon 3.Kimberly 4.Under Your Spell 5.Brittany 6.Halo Of Light 7.Just One Kiss On Your Heart 8.Dreams From Silver Lake 9.You`re My Obsession 10.Teach Me How To Love You Again 11.Grace (bonus Track) 12.Never Gonna Let Her Go (Bonus Track). LabelLink: www.aorblvdrecords.co.uk   OUTLOUD RELEASE THEIR CHRISTMAS SINGLE: "LAST DAYS OF DECEMBER": Outloud - the melodic Rock quintet from Athens/Greece featuring guitarist/keyboardist Bob Katsionis (Firewind) and New York based singer Chandler Mogel, have just released a Christmas themed single named: Last Days Of December. Bob Katsionis comments on the song: "People are getting so much negativity from everywhere these days. It's like someone is trying to make the world feel empty and helpless, facing the problems of each country's economy, criminality etc. At the same time, what you get from the Social Networks is mostly negative comments, trolling, absurdity, violence and people being more rude day by day. This is reflected on music as well. Bands are trying to be harder, heavier, meaner and more evil like there's some short of hate-contest going on! What we tried to do with this song is to bring the rock and Heavy Metal world some melody, some peace, remind people that Love is the power that makes this world go round and contribute to the soundtrack of the Christmas Holiday Season with a song that we hope will stand the test of time. Christmas time doesn't necessarily mean shopping and spending but also quality time with friends and family and the people we love and to be able to share some positive energy which is definitely missing nowadays. Happy Holidays!" The song will be available at your favorite digital download store internationally as of Tuesday, December 13. Meanwhile you can listen to the entire song and purchase it here: bobkatsionis.bandcamp.com/track/last-days-of-december. The song was written and produced and mixed by Bob Katsionis at Sound Symmetry Studio, Athens, Greece. Middle guitar solo by Achilleas Diamantis. Vocals were recorded at PJB Productions, Verona, New Jersey, USA. Drums were recorded at Basement Studio, Athens, Greece.   DESTINY'S 30TH ANNIVERSARY: This week Destiny enters the studio DRS to start the recording of the bands 30th Anniversary album, The Incompatibility of Philosophical Terminology. The album will be released in 2012. The album Global Warming is still under production but is temporarily put on hold and will be released at a later date... Click here for Destiny teaser trailer. Follow Destiny at Facebook here. For more information, please contact Destiny at destinygbg@gmail.com / www.destinymetal.com.   REVIEWS ADDED TODAY: New Reviews have been added for the following titles! Please check them out. They are: Beggars & Thieves, Royal Hunt, Alfonzetti, Fate, Strangeways, Chickenfoot, Serpentine, MeatLoaf, Sencelled, Chasign Magic, Grand Illusion, Shannon Noll, Dream Theater, Newman, Guru, Brian Howe, Derek Sherinian, Sanchez, Wicked Sins, Bangalore Choir (Live), Strangeways (Live) and Shotgun Symphony (Live).

 

 

Friday, December 09, 2011

AVENUE OF ALLIES PRESS RELEASE AND ARTIST UPDATE: Swedish Rock band Angeline celebrated the release of their new album Disconnected with two release shows & parties in their home country on the last November weekend. The audiences at their gigs in the bands hometown Ljusdal on November 25 and two days later in Sweden's capital Stockholm, saw the band perform some Angeline classics and eight songs from their brand new album "Disconnected". The band is currently climbing the charts on Reverbnation. Their song "Falling Into You" now holds position #8 on the local Swedish charts: www.reverbnation.com/angelinetheband. "Disconnected" is the second full-length album by the Swedish Rockers and will be released on Dec. 9 on the Avenue Of Allies label.   xx On the same date the label will release three more albums: Iain Ashley Hersey – Vintage Love, a compilation of the best Classic Hard Rock and Melodic Rock songs by the American guitarist feat. Graham Bonnet (Alcatrazz, ex-Rainbow, MSG), Paul Shortino (King Kobra, Ex-Quiet Riot, Rough Cutt), Dougie White (ex-Rainbow) and Carsten "Lizard" Schulz (Evidence One, ex-Domain) on vocals. Coastland Ride – On Top Of The World, the new album by the Swedish AOR / Westcoast trio, feat. Sven Larsson (Street Talk, Lionville) on solo guitar. Coastland Ride – Coastland Ride + 3, a remastered re-issue of the band's debut album, including three previously unreleased bonus songs of high quality AOR.   xxxx Recent Avenue Of Allies releases are: Paradise Inc. – Time / A new Melodic Rock band from Brazil fronted by German singer Carsten "Lizard" Schulz (Evidence One). The record was produced by Paul Logue (Eden's Curse) and mastered by Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69). Guests who can be heard on this album include Doogie White (ex Rainbow) on vocals on the track Not In Paradise, Paul Logue on bass on Wait To See and Italian keyboard player Alessandro Del Vecchio. Soul Seller – Back To Life: Our latest signing from Italy is the Melodic Rock band Soul Seller. Their international debut CD is called "Back To Life". Alessandro Del Vecchio (Shining Line, Lionville, Eden's Curse) was in charge of the production and the album includes a lead vocal duet with Oliver Hartmann (Hartmann, Avantasia).   xx LION MUSIC ARTIST UPDATES: A sampler of the forthcoming new album HoS from Swedish melodic hard rock sensations House of Shakira has just been made available at soundcloud.com/lionmusicrecordlabel/house-of-shakira-hos-album. The new album HoS marks the recording debut of new vocalist Andreas Novak in the band and features 13 tracks full of the lush melodic vocal orchestrations and rocking backings make this most complete House of Shakira album yet. House of Shakira – HoS is released on January 27 through Lion Music. WebLinks: www.houseofshakira.com / www.facebook.com/HouseofShakira / www.youtube.com/user/HouseofShakira.   Status Minor complete Ouroboros / Finn progressive metallers Status Minor have completed work on their second album entitled "Ouroboros". Building on the critically acclaimed sound heard on their 2010 debut "Dialog", the new album sees the band get heavier and more direct yet retaining the musicianship and song sense of song craft that won them so many plaudits. We are pleased to unveil the artwork for 'Ourboros' done by Carl-Andre Beckston (Monowasp). Status Minor Ouroboros has a tentative release date of April 2012.   LION MUSIC WEBSTORE SUPER SALE! A big box with 100 Mixed Lion Music back catalogue CDs for just 298 Euros! Most of there are going to become rarities as they won't be reprinted once sold out so now is the chance to discover some older gems from our back catalogue. Visit: www.lionmusic.com/ShopSelect.htm and click Mega Sale on left menu. QUEEN'S ROGER TAYLOR ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF "THE QUEEN EXTRAVAGANZA" COMPETITION: (Los Angeles, CA – December 8, 2011) Four decades later, the music of Queen hasn't just survived, it's thrived. The band, who recently received the "Global Icon Award" at the MTV European Music Awards, has sold more than 300 million albums, 16 of which were No. 1 chart-toppers. They've written and recorded 18 No. 1 singles, played over 700 live concerts in every part of the world, have amassed a planet-wide fanbase whose members number in the hundreds of millions, and remain one of the most influential groups of all time. And to hear Queen drummer Roger Taylor tell it, they're just getting started. The last thing they are doing is standing still. 2012 will see the launch of "The Queen Extravaganza Tour," a grand touring production booked by powerhouse agency CAA that will celebrate the music of Queen. Coming on board to ensure the touring show will match the design and excitement of Queen at its best will be such rock tour heavyweights as stage designer Mark Fisher (U2, AC/DC, Muse, The Rolling Stones, Cirque de Soleil) and lighting designer Rob Sinclair (Adele, Vampire Weekend, Goldfrapp, Peter Gabriel). Taylor will oversee this royal road show, taking the role of producer and music director, with Brian May involved later in the production, but Taylor's most important role, however, was leading the judges, Spike Edney (Queen's keyboard player since the mid 80's and Trip Khalaf (Queen's eternal sound engineer) in hand picking the musicians that will be featured on the tour. And after 11 weeks of reviewing online auditions and weighing votes from Queen fans around the world, Taylor is ready to announce the line-up. "As the audition videos began posting, we could see right away that the caliber of talent was very high," says Taylor. "But when I got into the studio with the final 25 musicians, I realized that these guys are seriously good players. They went way beyond my expectations. It was an incredibly difficult decision to choose the final line-up. I wish I could've kept them all, but in the end, I'm very happy with this group of exceptional musicians." "The Queen Extravaganza" band line-up will be: Vocals - Jennifer Espinoza (San Antonio, TX) Vocals - Marc Martel (Montreal, QC / Nashville,TN) Guitar - Tristan Avakian (Toronto, ON) Guitar - Brian Gresh (Tulsa, OK) Drums - Tyler Warren (Camden, TN) Bass - Francois-Olivier Doyon (Quebec City, QC) "What an amazing and unexpected opportunity to come our way – not to mention the timing of it all for me," said Marc Martel, whose audition video for "Somebody to Love" earned him an MTV O Award and an appearance on the Ellen Degeneres Show. "Having gotten to know the other contest winners a bit in LA, I'm confident we have what it takes to gel as a unit and give our best to do justice to some of the best rock music ever recorded. I am so thankful for the chance to do this. Gonna be Fun!" More at: downloads.queenextravaganza.com CULT AOR ACT DALTON REFORM FOR SHOWS: I've heard whispers that 80's melodic hard rockers Dalton have reformed. A member of the band was apparently approached by a production company, stating that they were interested in making a TV documentary series about the reunion of the band. Most of the guys hadn't seen each other in over 20 years, and they got together for the first time some weeks ago, with a small film crew. Since then they have rehearsed a couple of times and I'm told their goal is to perform at a major festival next year. Line-up: Leif Westfahl - Guitars; Matts Dahlberg - Drums; Ola Lindström - Keyboards; Kebbe Lindmark - Bass; Bosse Lindmark - Vocals. HARD ROCK AND METAL GIANTS ONCE AGAIN CELEBRATE THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF DIMEBAG: This, on the 7th Anniversary of Dimebag's slaying... Monster Energy Presents DimeBash 2011 Featuring Many of the Hard Rock World's Biggest Names As They Join Together to Celebrate the Music of "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott and Metal Classics He Loved with all Proceeds Benefiting the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up & Shout Cancer Fund. (Los Angeles, CA - December 8, 2011) - Metal guitar legend "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott's influence on the music community can never be fully estimated, but if the collection of artists and players at this year's DimeBash 2011 is any indication, his legacy is as far-reaching and deeper than ever before. On December 14, the world of hard rock and metal come together in a communion of thunderous songs and stories to tip its collective glass to one of the true masters of not only guitar, but music as a whole. "Today marks the 7th year, which still doesn't seem like a reality to me", states Rita Haney, longtime girlfriend of Dime and the person who knew him best. "Sometimes I think, "Boy this sure is a long ass tour", but then I focus back in and realize what I'm working on at this moment and I just have to smile and be thankful for all the amazing people that surround me - thanks to him. I hope everyone enjoys this event as much as we like bringing it to them. It's nothing more, nothing less, than "About a damn good time!" - one of my favorite Dime pastimes and phrases. There are no words to express my thanks to all the artists who make this event special and give "us fans" a night to remember two truly amazing people and the music they created! I am forever at your beckon call, so c'mon out and experience the evening with us. It's going to be quite magical!!!" The Key Club Hollywood plays host to all-star jams featuring the vocal talents of heavy hitters like Jerry Cantrell, Dave Draiman, Duff McKagan, Serj Tankian, Mike Muir and Sebastian Bach; the guitar fury from players like John 5, Scott Ian, Phil Demmel, Warren DeMartini, Ben Harper, Chris Howorth and Tom Morello; and the ground-shaking rhythms of Doug Pinnick, James Lomenzo, Ginger Fish, Brian Tichy and Joey Jordison, with many more superstars lending their vocal and playing skills to the metal proceedings - with the whole shebang being emceed by That Metal Show's Eddie Trunk and his co-horts, Jim Florentine and Don Jamieson. In addition, kicking off the event will be Kill Devil Hill, featuring the legendary Vinnie Appice and Rex Brown. Also on deck are Dio Disciples featuring the great Rudy Sarzo and vocalist Tim Ripper Owens with a special appearance by Glenn Hughes. It will truly be a special evening of hard rock featuring luminaries from some of the biggest bands in the world: Pantera, Anthrax, Disturbed, Slipknot, Rage Against The Machine, System of a Down, Machine Head and many more, all in the name of all things Dimebag - with 100% of proceeds from the event benefitting the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up & Shout Cancer Fund. Additionally, attendees will be able to land some limited edition merchandise and purchase Monster Energy cocktail drink specials with 100% of the proceeds benefitting the cause as well. Ticket prices are $20 and are on sale NOW at: www.keyclub.com/event/76497 / Doors Open at 7PM, Show Begins at 8PM. For more information go to: www.monsterenergy.com or www.Facebook.com/monsterenergymusic. MRX UPDATED: The MelodicRockXtra members only area has been updated once again, this week featuring: - Mr. Big - Live USA 8-17-11 (solid audience recording) - Yes - Alternate Big Generator (Demos) - Guns N' Roses - Rumbo Tapes (Classic era Studio Demos) MRX Membership Details. REVIEWS UP MONDAY: 20+ Reviews are due to be posted Monday - featuring new reviews for the likes of Beggars & Thieves, Strangeways, Alfonzetti, Fate, Grand Illusion, Chickenfoot, Serpentine, Royal Hunt, MeatLoaf and many more...

 

 

Thursday, December 08, 2011

MICHAEL THOMPSON BAND RETURN WITH A BRAND NEW ALBUM FUTURE PAST: Frontiers Records is excited to announce the return of Michael Thompson Band with the release of the brand new album Future Past on February 24 in Europe and February 28 in North America. In 1988, after working to try and get a deal with his band Slang, guitarist Michael Thompson finally got signed by Geffen Records to release one album entitled How Long, under the Michael Thompson Band (MTB) moniker. On "How Long" some great studio musicians appeared as guests, in particular drummer-maestro Terry Bozzio, singer Moon Calhoun (ex The Strand), Pat Torpey (later on drummer with Mr Big), bassist Jimmy Haslip, John Elefante (Kansas), Toto's Bobby Kimball and Great White associates Michael Lardie and Wyn Davis (who also produced the album). Songwriters would include, among others, AOR stars such as: Jeff Paris, Mark Spiro, Billy Trudel and Brett Walker. As of today "How Long" is still regarded as one of the highest examples of hi-tech AOR / West Coast, with a superb production and immaculate songwriting. "I think the album has stood the test of time with a great batch of songs and some really strong performances. It was heartfelt and I think people respond to music that comes from the heart. I'm glad that many fans of melodic rock still list this record amongst their favourites," tells Michael Thompson. "How Long" was reissued in 2007 with 3 bonus tracks and started a relationship between Michael Thompson and Frontiers Records, which finally brings the anticipated release of the new Michael Thompson Band album in early 2012. "I've tried to keep the new MTB album "Future Past" in the same spirit as "How Long". I'm hoping that people will hear the natural progression of my music and appreciate the new record as much as the first one," continues Michael. "Although 22 years is quite a gap time-wise the music was recorded with the same feeling and spirit as I always had". For the new album Michael teamed up with the awesome singer Larry King from Soleil Moon. Larry brought a new and more rocking approach to the MTB sound, but certainly the trademark elements of songwriting and melodies are still to be found in the new album "Future Past". In Michael Thompson words: "When I was considering singers for this new record I said to myself "Who is the best rock singer that I know?" and only one person came to mind - Larry King. The guy has such a phenomenal range and texture and it goes perfectly with my guitars. We started writing songs together a little over a year ago and from the first song, "Can't Be Right", I knew we had something special!" MTB 2012 line-up is rounded up by Khari Parker on drums and Alan Berliant on bass. "Larry brought them into the picture and it was a pleasure for me to work with some knew guys that I wasn't familiar with. It brought a fresh approach to the music," says Michael. The production of "Future Past" is just flawless and the album is destined to become soon another AOR music classic. "I think that the title kind of says it all - "Future Past"" concludes Michael. "Larry and I are both big fans of Classic Rock and AOR Melodic Rock so we just naturally infuse that love into the music that we write. It's elements of the past with a modern approach". Future Past track listing includes: High Times; Can't Be Right; Future Past; When You Love Someone; Here I Am; Beautiful Mystery; Break Me Down; End Game; Gypsy Road; Can't Miss 2012; Fight For Your Life. The first single "Can't Be Right" can be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web Radio now! Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. WebLinks: www.michaelthompson.cc / www.frontiers.it. Michael Thompson is one of today's leading guitar players of the world. He was awarded the "Distinguished Alumni" award from his Alma Mater Berklee College of Music to commemorate his contributions to the music industry. Berklee's program for the event noted that "he is widely regarded as being among the elite studio session players, and his amazing list of credits includes such prominent names as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, 'N Sync, Toni Braxton, Phil Collins, Rod Stewart, the Scorpions, Vince Neil, Christina Aguilera, Michael Bolton, Mariah Carey, Bette Midler, Madonna, Babyface, En Vogue, Gloria Estefan, Stanley Clarke and Ricky Martin."   xx LILLIAN AXE SIGNS WITH AFM! NEW ALBUM OUT IN JANUARY: New Orleans-based Hard Rock/Metal legend Lillian Axe has signed with AFM Records. On January 27, the cult band´s new album, XI: The Days Before Tomorrow, will be released.   xx STAN BUSH AND FRIENDS TURN INTO ACOUSTIC SAINTS: AOR legend Stan Bush has a new band for gigging, called Acoustic Saints. The band features Stan with Chuck Wright (bass) and Rick Sailon (guitar/violin/mandolin). Acoustic Saints reinterpret Classic Rock tunes with a moody atmospheric vibe infused with Violin, Mandolin, Acoustic Guitars, Fretless Bass and soaring vocals. Check out some of the band's cover tunes now at: www.wix.com/acousticsaints/as#!music.   THEOCRACY: NEW INTERVIEW WITH VOCALIST MATT SMITH POSTED ONLINE: Jennifer Grassman of The Washington Times recently performed an interview with Matt Smith, the vocalist of the melodic metal band Theocracy from Athens, GA. The interview touches subjects like the new Theocracy album "As The World Bleeds", touring plans, music video and much more. Check out the interview here; communities.washingtontimes.com/neighborhood/business-being-diva/2011/dec/2/metal-music-theocracy-World-Bleeds/ The new Theocracy "As The World Bleeds" album was released in Europe on November 25th through Ulterium Records and in North America on November 21st through Nightmare Records. The album debuted at #40 in the Billboard Heatseekers Chart. "As The World Bleeds" album teaser at YouTube; youtu.be/lRqVm0eLt68 / www.theocracymusic.com. MELODIC BRIEFS: Survivor are climbing the AC radio play charts with an old Christmas tune titled Christmas Is Here. Last week the band were the #1 Most Added. Thin Lizzy guitarist Damon Johnson sat down with BraveWords.com's Mitch Lafon backstage at their recent show at the Bell Center in Montreal. Damon talks about his time with Alice Cooper, Brother Cane and Thin Lizzy's upcoming recording plans. Check out the two-part chat: www.bravewords.com/news/173937. Reverse Grip is a Hard Rock band from Toronto, Canada formed by 3 brothers with a heavy 80s influence. They have just released their debut EP and music video for the single, Nasty Reputation. www.reversegriprock.com / www.youtube.com/watch?v=UO5Romp-s5c. CIRCA: featuring former YES members Billy Sherwood & Tony Kaye with Johnny Bruhns & Scott Connor will be in concert, live, interactive, in real time and brought directly to your home via their new UStream channel on December 31, 2011 (6:00 PM PST / 9:00 PM EST. Performing songs from the newly released Circa: 'And So On' CD (available at www.circahq.com) as well as selected cuts from their previous studio CDs 'Circa: 2007' and 'Circa: HQ', and other tracks from their collective musical pasts. For more information: www.circahq.com. Finnland's melodic rockers Myon recently made a video for their track, "Call Of the Senses" featuring Kimberly Knox, lifted from their unreleased sixth "Vitalworks" album. Check out the teaser: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hngt2w6549g. Once again, Boston's hard rock legends, MASS, have printed up a limited amount of their two song Christmas CD with portions of the proceeds going to the "Toys For Tots" organization. Last year over four thousand dollars' worth of toys were purchased and equally distributed to various "Toys for Tots" locations in the New England area. To order yours, please visit www.massrocks.com. Mass would like to wish everyone a very Happy Holiday!   DOOGIE WHITE RETURNS TO LA PAZ: Metal Mind Productions is proud to announce the release of an unique album in early 2012 - Granite by Doogie White & La Paz. La Paz were formed in Lanarkshire, Scotland in the summer of 1984 by Chic McSherry (guitars), Doogie White (vocals) and Alex Carmichael (bass). They had all been playing in the local music scene for a number of years and had run across each other often enough but the time hadn't been right to work together until then. At the first rehearsal together they hit it off immediately on a personal level - they also liked the same music and they had the same influences and heroes (Purple, Rainbow, Journey, Gary Moore) so they started to recruit other members to try to form a band and go do some gigs. They decided to add keyboards right away as, at that time, the "classic" guitar/keys combination had declined from favour and it immediately made them different from the other all-guitar bands that dominated the circuit at that time. Andy Mason joined the trio and he fitted in from the start, even though he was still at school when he joined and his middle-class parents were not at all happy about him hanging out with a bunch of rockers from the wrong side of the tracks. Drummers were always a problem and, over the life of the band, La Paz went through almost as many as Spinal Tap, although none of them died in bizarre gardening accidents or spontaneously combusted. Unquestionably the loudest and the most accomplished was/is their current drummer, Paul McManus. La Paz played live regularly, sometimes playing up to a hundred gigs in a year. They played the world-famous Marquee Club in London as well as at some festivals in Milton Keynes and they were featured regularly in Kerrang! (Derek Oliver becoming a big fan of the band) and attracted interest from a number of UK and US record companies, finally agreeing terms with one of them for a three album deal. But it was not to be - for reasons which were never explained by the record label the deal fell through at the very last minute. These things happen in the music business but after five or six years of hard graft it was a real blow and sadly the band didn't survive for very long after that. They did their last gig on 15th October 1988 and then Doogie moved to London to join Midnite Blue, Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, Cornerstone, Yngwie Malmsteen and now the mighty Tank. That was pretty much that for La Paz, apart from a single reunion gig about a year after the split and a brief appearance at a Glasgow rock club on Chic's 40th birthday. And then legendary DJ Tom Russell of 96.3 Rock Radio called Doogie and asked him if he would do some acoustic numbers at The Garage in Glasgow for Rock Radio's Birthday Bash in January 2008. Doogie agreed and asked Chic to play guitar. It was a big ask after 20 years: almost 1000 people, Doogie singing alone and Chic with one flamenco guitar! "We had such a blast though and it woke up so many great memories in both of us that we decided to give it a go with the full band for my 50th birthday" said Chic. And so the full band started to rehearse and it was clear that they could still play a bit. Three dates were booked and Doogie flew in from London the night before the first show to rehearse with everyone for the first time. The band just gelled: just like old times and the gigs were a terrific success. And so the notion of re-recording some of the favourites from the set that had never had a proper production job was floated by Paul: "What if we just gave it a try..." Chic: "Recording started in early 2011 and culminated in 'Granite', the album that we should have made back in the day. It has six of the live favourites: Too Good To Lose, This Boy, Lesson in love, Amy, What Do You Say, Still In Love as well as three brand new tracks: Just For Today, Young And Restless, Shame The Devil. Production was by Doogie and Chic with mixing and mastering by the renowned Rolf Munkes gave it a final injection of adrenalin. Granite is an album with its roots in the past but its energy in the present. Metal Mind Productions will release Granite on February 13 in Europe and March 6 in USA (via MVD). WebLink: www.metalmind.com.pl.   MARTIN TURNER'S WISHBONE ASH ON RICH DAVENPORT'S ROCK SHOW: Today, twin guitar harmonies are an integral part of the sound of many Hard Rock and Heavy Metal bands. The band that arguably did more to define and develop the twin guitar sound in the late 60s and early 70s is Wishbone Ash, who have been cited as an influence by the likes of Thin Lizzy, Iron Maiden and Opeth. Martin Turner, founding original member of Wishbone Ash, and now leading Martin Turner's Wishbone Ash, will be interviewed on Rich Davenport's Rock Show on Thursday, 8th December. Martin will be talking about both the original era of the band, and also his current activities with Martin Turner's Wishbone Ash, with news about his forthcoming autobiography and the band's live plans for 2012. The interview will also feature a track from the "Argus Through The Looking Glass" album, and another track from the Mark II line-up of the band. The show will be broadcast from 7-8pm UK time on Thursday, 8th December at this link: www.salfordcityradio.org/shows.php?id=577 and from Friday, 9th December, the show will be available at www.mixcloud.com/richdav1

 

 

Wednesday, December 07, 2011

BEGGARS AND THIEVES DEBUT NEW CLIP: The quite excellent new Beggars & Thieves album is out this week - here is the awesome lead video Come Undone featuring special guests: Ron Keel, Jake E. Lee, Blas Elias, Sunset Thomas and Paul Shortino.   NEW DECEMBER TITLES FROM ROCK CANDY RECORDS OUT: There is no fewer than five new Rock Candy titles available now! Get them from www.rockcandyrecords.com for the discounted price of £10.99 each, inclusive of free postage to anywhere in the world for the next two weeks ending on 24th December. Harlequin 'Love Crimes' CANDY109 / It's no secret that the Canadian music scene during the late seventies and early eighties was bursting with talent, perhaps more per capita than their American neighbours. It was a scene driven by the Canadian government's insistence that radio stations should play at least 30% music created by home grown talent. It was a system that worked a treat, allowing acts such as Rush, Loverboy, Triumph and Bryan Adams to secure great success at home and, eventually, abroad. Winnipeg based five piece Harlequin were a fine example of an act that benefitted from what was called CanCon. It didn't hurt either that they were 'accidently' signed to the giant, international, CBS corporation, following the absorption of an independent production company that the band had signed to earlier in their career. 'Love Crimes', originally released in 1980, was produced by Jack 'Aerosmith' Douglas in New York, at the famed Record Plant Studios. It was an album that achieved Platinum status in Canada, making inroads into the US where the band played shows with the likes of Survivor, Triumph and John Waite. Featuring an amazing vocalist (George Belanger), superbly crafted songs and a melodic yet hard hitting sound, 'Love Crimes' remains a classic creation. AOR, for sure, with rough-hewn guitar work, memorable melody and hugely satisfying hooks. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album, band involvement and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Innocence 2. Love On The Rocks 3. Thinking Of You 4. It's All Over Now 5. Heaven (Dial 999) 6. Sayin' Goodbye To The Boys 7. Wait For The Night 8. Crime Of Passion 9. Can't Hold Back 10. Midnight Magic. Le Roux 'Up' CANDY125 / Originally released in 1980, LeRoux's 'Up' album is regarded as one of the cornerstones of pomp rock. Embellished with flamboyant keyboards but utilising traditional hard rock as its backbone, their style accommodated complex arrangements, melodic guitar work and impressive vocals from Jeff Pollard. Sandwiched between leading contenders of the day such as Toto, Trillion, Kansas and Starcastle the band attracted a fevered response from not only long term fans but also casual observers. Formed in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, LeRoux had previously cut two albums in a rural rock style before switching allegiance to their firebrand version of melodic pomp rock. Produced by feted session musician Jai Winding (Jackson Browne, Boz Scaggs), the 'Up' album exploded out of the starting gate to huge approval by those that took notice. Although sales may have been somewhat limited, their influence was persuasive and powerful, especially in Europe where 'Up' was hailed as a masterpiece by a number of connoisseurs of the genre. Stuffed to the brim with astonishing tracks including 'Let Me Be Your Fantasy', 'Get It Right The First Time', 'Mystery' and the truly impressive 'Roll Away The Stone', the album oozes both class and control, delivering maximum melody at every available opportunity. The sound is big, bold and crystal clear propelling the contents to the stars and beyond. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album, band involvement and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Let Me Be Your Fantasy 2. Get It Right The First Time 3. Mystery 4. Roll Away The Stone 5. It Could Be The Fever 6. I Know Trouble When I See It 7. Waiting For Your Love 8. Crying Inside 9. I Won't Be Staying. Gamma '2' CANDY113 / When it comes to guitar heroes Ronnie Montrose must rank amongst the greatest exponents of the art rubbing shoulders with the likes of Eddie Van Halen, Ted Nugent, Gary Moore and Michael Schenker. Indeed, his first band Montrose is credited as crafting arguably one of the greatest hard rock albums of all time elevating Ronnie to major status amongst fellow proponents of guitar mayhem. Gamma, formed in the late 70s, allowed Ronnie to take the Montrose template and reposition it closer to contemporary sounds without losing sight of his hot-shot reputation for guitar playing. Reuniting with former Montrose drummer Denny Carmassi, then unknown Scottish vocalist Davey Pattison, bassist Glen Letsch and managed by impresario and concert promoter Bill Graham the band dug in hard to create 'Gamma 2', a record that is regarded as the bands best effort. Originally issued in 1980 and produced by Gary Lyons (Foreigner, UFO, Aerosmith), it is a record erupting with hail and brimstone including a brace of classic hard rock cuts including 'Mean Streak', 'Dirty City', 'Four Horsemen' and a brilliant interpretation of Thunderclap Newman's timeless 'Something In The Air'. Man of the match? If it ain't Ronnie blasting away on his trusted Gibson Les Paul then it must surely be vocalist Davey Pattison, a voice of pure blues soaked brilliance. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album, band involvement and additional photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Mean Streak 2. Four Horsemen 3. Dirty City 4. Voyager 5. Something In The Air 6. Cat On A Leash 7. Skin And Bone 8. Mayday.   xxxx More 'Warhead' CANDY112 / Back in the early 1980s British heavy metal was in full flight with most, if not all, of the acts very much belonging to the developing NWOBHM scene. It was a movement that would uncover a couple of superstar acts, hundreds of hopefuls and a handful of well positioned rising stars that flirted with success but didn't quite make the top grade. More belonged very much to the latter division, a band that was on every level fit for purpose but failed to make lasting or indeed commercial impact. Based in London, More's roots actually lay in the very same avenues and alleyways frequented by Iron Maiden. Indeed, vocalist Paul Mario Day had been - alongside Steve Harris - a member of pre Iron Maiden outfit Gypsy's Kiss. Both went their separate ways, of course, with Day reappearing as front man for More, a ball-busting rough and tumble five piece with a volatile two guitar line-up laying waste to a bunch of catchy hooks. Signed to Atlantic Records, Warhead was originally issued in 1981 and produced by none other than Henry 'H-Bomb' Wreck, leader of seventies cult US hard rock combo Brownsville Station ('Smokin' In The Boys Room'), the album features a fine selection of tracks primarily designed to bludgeon the listener into boot-licking compliance. Fortunately it's a game they won hands down. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, includes bonus track, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album, band involvement and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Warhead 2. Fire 3. Soldier 4. Depression 5. Road Rocket 6. Lord Of Twilight 7. Way Of The World 8. We Are The Band 9. I Have No Answers Bonus Track: 10. Atomic Rock. More 'Blood & Thunder' CANDY110 / More's debut album, 'Warhead', successfully established this London based hard rock band as an act to watch for bigger and better things. Emerging as part of the burgeoning NWOBHM scene and playing every nook and cranny up and down the country, their stock was certainly in the ascendance. Album number two was expected to springboard them into the hard rock stratosphere but - as is often the case - things started to go wildly astray. Before long the band had fallen into a state of almost irreversible disrepair, a predicament complicated by internal rancour and managerial shenanigans. First to jump ship was guitarist Laurie Mansworth (later to form Airrace) followed by bassist Brain Day and - after he had actually recorded vocals for the album - front man Paul Mario Day. Replacement singer Mick Stratton was brought in to re-record vocals parts, a surprisingly effective salvage job which was expertly overseen by seasoned producer Pete Hinton (Saxon) and founding guitarist Kenny Cox. Under such circumstances you'd normally expect a somewhat disappointing and ultimately patchy affair; a rag bag of disjointed styles cashing in on the bands good name. Remarkably, however, nothing could be further from the truth as 'Blood & Thunder' is one of the most impressive of all the NWOBHM releases. Built on little more than armour plated perseverance and gargantuan riffs, the sound is utterly uncompromising. Just like the sound of a jet engine preparing for take-off, this is a record is impossible to ignore. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, previously unreleased in Europe, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album, band involvement and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Killer On The Prowl 2. Blood And Thunder 3. I Just Can't Believe It 4. I've Been Waiting 5. Traitors Gate 6. Rock And Roll 7. I Wanna Take You 8. Go Home 9. The Eye 10. Nightmare.   xx LUKATHER AND SON OF LUKATHER NEWS: Steve Lukather's son Trevor Lukather and Jack Blades' son Colin Blades have formed a new group called Bermuda Saints. You can hear three new demo tracks from the band now at their music at this Facebook link: www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=app_2915120374#!/Bermudasaints. Speaking of Steve Lukather - he tweets: "Today marks the official start of my next solo record. I do NOT sit around after a year+ tour. Me and CJ Vanston start NOW! More to come!" QUEEN EXTRAVAGANZA ONE STEP CLOSER TO ANNOUNCEMENT: Billboard talked to Queen drummer Roger Taylor this week, getting up to date with the latest coming from the Queen camp: Queen Talking With Adam Lambert For Additional Concerts / By Phil Gallo, Los Angeles "While Queen drummer Roger Taylor is at the finish line in creating a band-authorized Queen tribute band, he and his bandmates have begun discussions with Adam Lambert to front Queen in concert. The former "American Idol" star sang with Taylor and guitarist Brian May at the MTV Europe Awards on Nov. 6, performing "The Show Must Go On" and "We Will Rock You/We Are the Champions." "He has grown into a really great performer with an astonishing voice with a range that's great," Taylor told Billboard.biz in Los Angeles while finalizing the band for a Queen Extravaganza tour. "We would like to work with him again. There's nothing signed just yet but we're talking about live dates. It could be very exciting." On the front-burner for Taylor is "The Queen Extravaganza Tour" that will feature three vocalists and a five-piece band. Taylor is producer and music director, although he will not be performing on the tour. CAA will book the trek, which Taylor estimates will begin in May and go for thee months. He said he expects the band will be booked into venues with between 2,000 and 4,000 seats. "I don't think any band has done this," he told Billboard.com about his active role in creating a tribute band. "Very few are even endorsed - I can think of Australian Pink Floyd - but there are so many of them I thought we need to have the one [we endorse]." Musicians sent in audition videos online - more than 700 were received - and 26 finalists were flown to Los Angeles to perform Dec. 5 with other finalists for Taylor. He is scheduled to announce the lineup on Dec. 6. When the contest was announced, only one spot in the band was guaranteed to an online "Queentestant." Taylor said the whole band could come from the musicians who tried out. "As it was an experiment," he says. "We didn't know what the process would be or who we would get or while professional musicians we know would we bring in. There are a lot of things to weigh - the personality, can they get along? A couple really showed up having what it takes and a few were great musicians but not right for the job." Once selected, Taylor says they will "rehearse the hell out of them" while Mark Fisher designs the sets and Ron Sinclair puts together a light show. NewsLink: www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/industry/touring/updated-queen-talking-with-adam-lambert-1005623452.story. AUTOGRAPHED COPIES OF THE OUTFIELD CD AVAILABLE: The Outfield's new CD Replay (featuring all 3 original members: Tony Lewis, John Spinks, Alan Jackman) is now available via: CDBaby.com (www.cdbaby.com/Artist/TheOutfield) A "Limited Edition" of the CD is also available with the inner sleeve autographed by all three band members at CD Baby: www.cdbaby.com/cd/theoutfield2. Promo Videos: www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFiWpCXIpi4 and www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHvncVJqGsY.   ALICE COOPER DRUMMER GLEN SOBEL TALKS: December 6, 2011 - Alice Cooper band drummer Glen Sobel (Sixx: AM, Vivian Campbell, Beautiful Creatures) recently talked to the UK's premier drum magazine Rhythm about his equipment and setup while on a tour stop in Birmingham, England. Glen gives a rundown of his setup configuration, cymbals, drum heads, sticks and why he chose those particular items for the tour. The can be viewd at this location: www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKNLFwLGIp4. The Alice Cooper 2011 "No More Mr Nice Guy" tour is in the home stretch of a trek that covers over 20 countries on 5 continents. Dates have already begun to surface for Alice and band in 2012. More info can be found at alicecooper.com/tour-terror. Glen Sobel online: www.facebook.com/drummerglen. LEATHERWOLF LIVE IN LA: December 6, 2011 - Orange County heavy metal Triple Axe Attack, Leatherwolf, headlined the 1st Annual Rockers Against Cancer Benefit Show at the House Of Blues in Hollywood, CA today which also Roy Z's Serpents & Rainbows (including former Yngwie Malmsteen and Royal Hunt vocalist, Mark Boals), Stonebreed and Octane Mob. This marked Leatherwolf's first L.A. live appearance with new guitarist Rob Math who recently took over for Greg Erba. He joins original members Michael Olivieri (vocals, guitar), Carey Howe (guitar), and Dean Roberts (drums) along with bassist Patrick Guyton. Leatherwolf are currently mixing their 'Live at the Galaxy' DVD which was filmed during the band's 2009 performance at the Galaxy Theatre in Santa Ana, CA. A sneak preview of the song 'Thunder' can be viewed on the band's YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/watch?v=mg3K_dO-Fdw / www.facebook.com/pages/Leatherwolf/139268482759209. THE ORIGINAL BULLETBOYS RETURN FOR GIG: 1980s powerhouses BulletBoys are reuniting for an explosive night of head banging, ear-splitting hard rock, treating fans to a one-night-only performance in celebration of their epic career. Featuring all four original members of the inaugural 1987 line-up, this landmark event will take place on December 30 at 6:30pm at the iconic Key Club in West Hollywood, California. Marq Torien, Mick Sweda, Lonnie Vencent, and Jimmy D'anda are joining forces for the first time in over 10 years to thrill both past and present fans on the Sunset Strip in Southern California over the New Year's Eve weekend. All of their smash hits will be in display; including popular singles such as "Smooth up in Ya," "For the Love of Money," "Hang on St. Christopher" and more. This exciting evening is also being filmed for a live DVD, documenting BulletBoys and everyone in attendance in all of their glam-metal glory. BulletBoys have released seven studio albums over their 24 year career, becoming a breaking sensation on radio and MTV with their self-titled debut in 1988 and follow up record Freakshow in 1991. Both records enjoyed significant success on the Billboard charts, along with singles like "Smooth up in Ya" and "For the Love of Money." Drawing from legendary influences such as Van Halen and AC/DC, they were a significant force during the metal movement which dominated the airwaves during the late 80s and early 90s. The group has continued to release more material in recent years, such as 10c Billionaire in 2009, and a live record, Behind the Orange Curtain in 2007, thanks to the leadership and drive of their vibrant and forceful frontman, Marq Torien. The Los Angeles natives chose one of the hottest clubs in the area for their reunion extravaganza, returning to the original hotbed for 80s metal with a marquee line-up. Tickets are available from the Key Club website or at the box office for just $18 in advance, or $20 day-of-show, guaranteeing each person an unforgettable night which will be captured forever in brilliant high definition on BulletBoys' upcoming live DVD. Attendees must be at least 16 years of age to attend, and the Key Club is located at 9039 Sunset Blvd. in West Hollywood, California. Don't miss a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the BulletBoys prove that pigs really can fly. WebLinks: www.bulletboysofficial.com / www.facebook.com/pages/BULLETBOYS/121246147910242. CHICKENFOOT SELLING OUT IN UK: Following the release of their acclaimed second album Chickenfoot III, the hottest rock'n'roll band in the world, Chickenfoot featuring Sammy Hagar (vocals), Joe Satriani (guitar) Michael Anthony (bass) and Kenny Aronoff (drums), will perform two rare concerts in the UK in January 2012 - Manchester Academy (Jan 12) and London o2 Brixton Academy (Jan 14). The Manchester Academy concert on January 12th is now sold out. Tickets are still available for Chickenfoot's London o2 Brixton Academy concert on Saturday January 14, and can be ordered from www.livenation.co.uk/artist/chickenfoot-tickets. Original Chickenfoot drummer Chad Smith has temporarily handed his sticks over to the legendary Kenny Aronoff, who will join the band for the upcoming UK and European concerts in January. Chickenfoot will perform songs from their gold-selling, eponymous debut album, alongside tracks from 'III', for the very first time in Europe. The European tour also includes concerts at Paris Olympia (Jan 16), Tilburg O13 (Jan 17) and Dusseldorf Mitsubishi Electric Hall (Jan 19). Read the official Chickenfoot UK and European tour press release - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/chickenfoot/tour.htm. UNITED ROCKERS 4U TO RELEASE "ONE FAMILY" SINGLE ON MONDAY TO BENEFIT AMERICAN RED CROSS: United Rockers 4U -- an all-star line-up comprised of such artists as Eddie Money, Bobby Kimball (Toto), Jimi Jamison (Survivor), Don Dokken (Dokken), Terry Ilous (Great White/XYZ), Rudy Sarzo (Ozzy Osbourne/Quiet Riot/Whitesnake), Robin McAuley (McAuley Schenker Group/Survivor), Phil Lewis (LA Guns), Richie Kotzen (Poison/Mr. Big), Paul Shortino (Rough Cutt/Quiet Riot), Brian Tichy (Whitesnake/Foreigner/Billy Idol), Jeff Paris (hit songwriter for Mr. Big, Vixen, Lita Ford), Robert Sarzo (Hurricane) and session player Michael Thompson (MTB) -- have come together to perform a heartfelt song called "One Family" that will benefit the American Red Cross. The single, which was written and produced by rock singer/songwriters Terry Ilous and Jeff Paris and mixed by Beau Hill (Producer for Ratt/Warrant/Others), will be released on Monday, December 12, through the Fyco Records label and made available via iTunes (itunes.apple.com/us/artist/united-rockers-4u/id485785135?uo=4), Amazon and several other major online music stores. "As the father of an adopted Asian child, I was greatly moved by the Japan tsunami footage of a little girl searching through the rubble for her parents," states Terry Ilous. "I felt this could've been my daughter and disaster can happen anywhere, even here in America. So my writing partner Jeff Paris and I wrote 'One Family' as a way of helping the Red Cross." "We are excited to partner with such an impressive coalition of 80s rockers who are helping raise awareness of and funds for the Red Cross," said Paul Schulz, CEO, American Red Cross Los Angeles Region. "We encourage everyone to attend the United Rockers 4U concert at the Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood and purchase the 'One Family' single to help support the Red Cross' vital services to the community." After a lot of hard work, what was once a dream has now became a reality and all involved are hoping to collaborate again in the future. Many of the artists featured on "One Family" have committed to performing at the benefit including Ilous, Paris, McAuley, Sarzo and Tichy. Also performing are members from Great White, Black Sabbath, Scorpions, Whitesnake, Survivor, XYZ, Alice Cooper, Foreigner, AC/DC, Dio, Heaven & Hell, Ratt, Quiet Riot, Rainbow, Stryper, Ozzy Osbourne Band, Angel, MSG, House of Lords, Hurricane, Led Zeppagain and more!! The benefit concert will be taking place on Thursday, December 15, at Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood on Hollywood Blvd. (6801 Hollywood Blvd., #105, Hollywood, California 90028) at 9:00pm PST. A limited number of VIP tickets are available for $25 (www.ticketweb.com/t3/sale/SaleEventDetail?dispatch=loadSelectionData&eventId=4126135) for priority concert viewing and Meet & Greet with band members. 100% of ticket sales will go to the American Red Cross for Disaster Relief. General admission is free and donations will be welcome the night of the event. For those unable to attend the show, it can be viewed for free online (live) at www.ustream.tv/channel/united-rockers-4u. "We're all thankful, especially during the holidays, to be able to do what we do," Ilous further comments. "This is just a small way for us to give back and help those in need." Further information on the "One Family" project can be viewed at www.unitedrockers4u.org, while further information on the benefit concert can be found on the Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood on Hollywood Blvd. site www.hardrock.com/locations/cafes3/events.aspx?LocationID=559&MIBenumID=3. DAVE MENIKETTI SAYS THANK YOU TO FANS: A message from Dave Meniketti... "I speak for the entire band in thanking you all for an inspiring and unforgettable 2011. Y&T has always been blessed with such amazing fans, and never has this been so apparent to me as it has this year. I'll never forget how so many of you have shown your love and support for us in what has been a difficult year for the band, after having lost my best friend and Y&T bassist Phil Kennemore to lung cancer early in the year. His wish, and mine, was for the band to continue to bring the music to the people. And with this commitment, you all have been so amazing in accepting Brad Lang into the Y&T family and continuing to support the band as we move forward. Now we all look toward 2012, which also happens to be the 30-year anniversary of the Black Tiger release. Expect many more great shows ahead, along with the possibility of some new things coming out of the Y&T camp this next year. It's looking like another great year ahead and we hope you will be there with us for the ride. Until then, on behalf of everyone in the Y&T organization, we wish you all a happy, joyful holiday season and a great New Year's. We look forward to rockin' with you all in 2012! Cheers - Dave." ROCKNATION CELEBRATES 5TH ANNIVERSARY: Rocknation celebrates 5 years with Issue 16 featuring exclusive interviews with Wrathchild, Hellspray, Dirty Passion, Roxx Gang & Petro. Rocknation TV and newspaper CEO Tom Mathers is very proud of the success of the TV show appearing nationwide on Time Warner and Comcast. Also the newspaper releasing 16 Issues with over 750,000 newspapers distributed in over 750 CD Stores nationwide. Preview issue here: www.rocknation.us/issue16.

 

 

Tuesday, December 06, 2011

FRONTIERS LAUNCHES NEW YOUTUBE CLIPS: Frontiers Records present two new YouTube videos for fans to check out. The first is the brand new Primal Fear single Bad Guys Wear Black - from the album Unbreakable out EU: January 20 / USA: January 24. Digital single out now! The second clip features this month's new Frontiers releases. For more info: www.frontiers.it.   xx ERIC MARTIN CHECKS IN: Eric Martin checks in: "It's been an incredible year with Mr. Big. We've been to Japan, Southeast Asia, Europe, USA, South America, back to Europe and finishing 2011 in Indonesia right now. I'll be enjoying a few weeks off with my family for the holidays and then it's back to work. I have a few upcoming shows on land and at sea before I get to work on some more recording. Hope to see you at one of these shows. January 27, 2012 - Eric Martin Band at George's Night club, San Rafael, CA. The last George's show sold out and people were desperately trying to get tickets last minute. Don't wait, this show is already 60% sold. Elephant Listening Project is also on the bill. February 4, 2012 - Eric Martin Band @The Boardwalk, Orangevale, CA. Eric returns to Sacramento for his first performance since 2008. February 25-28, 2012 - Join the Eric Martin band on 2012's Monster's or Rock Cruise to the Bahamas. It's going to be a bay area reunion with Tesla, Y&T, Night Ranger and many more bands on the ship. MÖTLEY CRÜE IN SIN CITY - THE WORLD'S MOST NOTORIOUS BAND LAUNCHES LAS VEGAS' FIRST-EVER HARD ROCK RESIDENCY: Three decades after beginning its iconic journey of debauchery and decadence, Mötley Crüe has announced plans to invade Las Vegas with the city's first-ever hard rock residency: Mötley Crüe In Sin City. The world's most notorious band will he heading to the world's most notorious city where they will perform an extended run--starting February 3 through 19--at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Tickets go on sale tomorrow, Saturday, December 3 at www.motley.com, www.thejointlasvegas.com, www.ticketmaster.com and the venue box office. VIP seating and packages will also be available. The shows are produced by AEG Live. 2012's Mötley Crüe In Sin City show is sure to leave the loud impression that what happens in Vegas will be heard around the world. Vocalist Vince Neil, guitarist Mick Mars, bassist Nikki Sixx and drummer Tommy Lee have big plans for Mötley Crüe In Sin City to create a never-been-done before and incredibly interactive Vegas experience. Exact details about the show­expected to supersede the band's high standard of production­are being kept under wraps for now to keep an element of surprise for fans. The engagement falls during a holiday-packed time in the calendar year: Super Bowl Sunday, Valentine's Day and President's Day. Last night the band officially announced the news on CNN's "Piers Morgan Tonight." "It is a dream come true for me especially living in and loving Las Vegas," says singer Vince Neil. "I am thrilled that a guy like Piers Morgan would help kick it off!" Adds drummer Tommy Lee, "I don't know about you, but when I think of Mötley Crüe I think of filthy sex, drugs, a REALLY big show and way too much fun... sounds like Las Vegas doesn't it? A match made in heaven!!!" "We are very excited to announce our upcoming partnership with legendary rockers Mötley Crüe," said Paul Davis, vice president of entertainment at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. "The one-of-a-kind production will be the most unique, interactive, fan-driven concert experience the band has ever created. Mötley Crüe is a perfect fit for the Hard Rock and we can't wait for this unforgettable residency to begin!" Adds Bobby Reynolds, Vice President of Booking for AEG Live Las Vegas, "We're thrilled that Mötley Crüe is creating their most notorious show ever and bringing it to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in notorious Las Vegas. This concert experience is going to represent what the fans love most about Mötley Crüe, the Hard Rock and Las Vegas: good times, rock n' roll and a stage show like no one has ever seen before!" Tickets, starting at $45 (plus applicable service fees) will be available Saturday at 10am at the Hard Rock Box Office, www.motley.com, www.thejointlasvegas.com, or www.ticketmaster.com. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is also offering ticket and room bundles via www.hardrockhotel.com. For more information, please visit: www.motley.com.   AOL MUSIC/NOISECREEP PREMIERE SIXX:A.M., '7' ACOUSTIC ALBUM + EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: After teasing fans last week, Sixx:A.M. has officially announced the December 15th release of their acoustic EP, '7' available on iTunes. Go over to AOL Music/Noisecreep to check out their exclusive full album stream and interview with James Michael. Album Stream: aol.it/vdr6QV / Noisecreep Interview: aol.it/rsX1B2. Official Site: sixxammusic.com / Facebook: facebook.com/sixxammusic.   FnA RECORDS NEWS - HARD ROCK GEM SURFACES 20 YEARS LATER AND THE RETURN OF WITCH: FnA Records has uncovered another hidden gem and piece of music history. After turning down numerous recording contracts back in 1991, Royal Blood and their lost recordings finally get their due release. Royal Blood consists of world renowned guitarist and two time Grammy nominee Alex Masi, Billboard chart-topping songwriter and bassist Rocky Newton (MSG, Lionheart) and vocalist/frontman extraordinaire Eric Golbach (Craig Chaquico, WWE, The Aqüa Nëts). The album, Thanks Seattle...For Killing My Band and My Dreams, contains 16 majestic tracks of pure pleasure and pain. Thanks Seattle...was what every great hard rock hair band was doing in the late 80's and early 90's, only a million times better and more technically proficient. This album would've been a staple at MTV and these cross-continental players would've been house hold names. This was 1991, and the hard rock hair band genre was in full effect. Royal Blood felt that they had time to listen to all the offers and entertain all comers to the table. At the time, and unbeknownst to the band that a Seattle thing was on the horizon, they all forged forward with this truly high-energy and extremely talented band. Lead singer, Eric Golbach was receiving offers to sing for the likes of Peter Criss (Kiss), Brad Gillis (Night Ranger), and Jennifer Batten (Michael Jackson). Rocky Newton had just recently played a part in the success of Def Leppard's Pyromania and Hysteria albums. And Alex Masi...well he was doing what Alex Masi does best, playing guitar like nobody's business and garnering nominations for Grammys. The title (Thanks Seattle...For Killing My Band and My Dreams!) playfully mocks the story of how Seattle came out of left-field and almost overnight made the beloved hard rock/heavy metal scene defunct; at least as it played out on MTV and radio. Headbangers Ball was history and so were many of the bands who pioneered the genre. However, this does not deny that Royal Blood had been working hard and recorded what would've surely been the next gem on the billboard charts. So what does Thanks Seattle...For Killing My Band and My Dreams!, offer the fans of quality hard rock and heavy metal music. Well, for starters, some of these tunes were songs that Rocky Newton had been working on for future MSG projects. So there is no denying that there is a strong MSG influence, and even a Def Leppard influence. This album will also be a huge surprise for those fans of guitar virtuoso Alex Masi as he shreds through solo after blazing solo in this 16 track masterpiece. With only one ballad on the entire album, Thanks Seattle... is a tirade of melodic anthem after melodic anthem. Every song sounds like it belongs in a big arena show. For those fans that like big, over-the-top melodies, smoking guitar solos, and soaring vocals, this will be the album that keeps the flame flickering. Sound samples are available at www.fnarecords.net.   xx Legendary Cult Heavy Metal Band Releases The Hex Is On...And Then Some on FnA Records The 80's began not with a bang but with a whimper of the death of disco. The music that followed did not define our generation but instead split it in half literally overnight. On One side was the punks and on the other side, a heavier version of the latest British Invasion, with bands like Motorhead, Saxon, Krokus and countless others. Up until the summer of 1982 there was no heavy metal scene in Orange County at all until bands like Witch, Slayer, Ruthless, and Metallica took the reins and created one themselves. Witch, along with Great White and W.A.S.P. quickly became the top three bands on the L.A. Circuit. In fact, the very first show that Witch would play would be to a sold-out crowd. The legend of Witch grew quickly. From setting the ceiling of the Stardust Ballroom on fire, to getting into fist fights on stage, to 3 day-benders at Larry Flynt's Hustler Mansion with Tommy Lee, the raucous notoriety of Witch spread like wildfire. But it didn't end there. There are the stories of porn stars and famous D.J.s, flattening the tires of Rival bands touring vans (Megadeth), tattooing their genitalia, setting themselves on fire and beating themselves bloody, multiple rival girlfriends, being arrested, wearing outlandish costumes (fishnets and g-strings), being hit in the face by Nikki Sixx, pyro mishaps, movie roles playing a mutant metal band post a radioactive holocaust, out of hand house parties, and these are only the stories that we can tell. And then there was being publicly ridiculed by Metallica, Exciter, Megadeth and Venom! The legend continued as Witch would share the stages with such notable artists like Slayer, W.A.S.P, Megadeth, Great White, Lizzy Borden, MSG, Poison, Guns N' Roses, Exciter, Yngwie Malmsteen, Stryper, Grim Reaper, Loudness, Steeler, Malice, Odin, Keel, Warlock, and many other bands of the era. Witch Drummer Punky Peru states "We wanted something heavy yet theatrical...We were trying to take part of our influences from Alice Cooper and The Sweet and mix it together with Motorhead and Dio. The outcome was Witch." Witch was the denim, leather, spikes and chains crowd despite the make-up, aquanet, and fishnets. FnA Records now gives Witch's 1984 cult album, The Hex Is On, a proper release with the addition of numerous additional tracks. The tracks on The Hex Is On...And Then Some have been given a full overhaul and sound better than they ever have. Peter Wabitt proclaims, "This album finally sounds the way I always imagined it would sound. If it would've sounded this way when it first came out, we would've sold a lot more copies." With updated artwork, the album features a Peter Wabbitt interpretation of Shakespeares MacBeth, followed by the remastered versions of The Hex Is On, the mega-rare Nobody Sleeps 12" two track single, and the Rock Climbers compilation only track 1:45. Added to the stellar tracklist is the 1988 demo for a Witch track entitled Take Me Away. The last 9 tracks of the Hex Is On...And Then Some represent the 1997 regathering of Peter Wabbitt and Punky Peru. Recording together for the first time in nearly a decade, we get to see the pure magic that results when these two unite. A more current version of the Witch song Take Me Away appears along with eight other tunes featuring such great guest musicians as: Slash (Guns n' Roses), Steve Stevens (Billy Idol), Chris Holmes (W.A.S.P.), Rowan Robertson (Dio), and Keith Emerson (ELP). Classic Rock Magazine names Witch number 33 of the top 100 classic cult heroes. This is not by mistake. Witch was more Motley than Motley Crue, more fire and brimstone than W.A.S.P., and more debauchery and excess than any of their other 80's counterparts. Hear what you have been missing all along!!! Sound samples are available at www.fnarecords.net.   xx RIK EMMETT / DAVE DUNLOP COVERS ALBUM RELEASED: This news from Rik Emmett's latest newsletter: "As I write this, the digital downloads have already been released on iTunes and will be available on our own site for our new reCOVERy room 9 CD release (Rik Emmett and Dave Dunlop aka The Troubs)." The CD features: 1. I Hear You Knockin' (Dave Bartholomew & Pearl King) 2. Message In a Bottle (Sting) 3. The Boys of Summer (Don Henley & Mike Campbell) 4. Superstition (Stevie Wonder) 5. Always a Woman (Billy Joel) 6. Born to Run (Bruce Springsteen) 7. I've Just Seen a Face (Lennon & McCartney) 8. Have a Little Faith In Me (John Hiatt) 9. The Galaxy Song (Eric Idle & John Du Prez). Recorded in the fall of 2011 at Room 9, Toronto, Executive Produced by Rik Emmett & Dave Dunlop, All tracks produced, engineered & mixed at Room 9 by Dave Dunlop. Mastered by Steve Skingley. Guitar [mostly right side] & lead vocals – Rik Emmett; Guitar [mostly left side] & BG vocals Dave Dunlop. Available on iTunes or via rikemmett.com for download for only $7.99.   NEW TOM COCHRANE PROJECT PREVIEWED: Check out a sample of the long awaited new Tom Cochrane/Andrew Cole collaborative single: www.voicesat4am.com. The site is offering a package of a limited edition 7" single, 2 track CD Single and T-Shirt, all for just $60! Yep...even I, a life long fanatical TC fan declined that offer. The single will be on iTunes also, so I'll stick to that. The line-up looks incredible though - Cochrane & Cole, with guitarist Alex Lifeson (Rush), session drummer Kenny Aronoff and Red Rider's Ken Greer plus more. Only 2 tracks at this point though, which is disappointing. Hoping for more, but the website lists no additional information about the project or their plans. HOUSE OF LORDS LIVE IN USA AND EUROPE: House Of Lords have announced rescheduled tour dates for February 2012. They are as follows. Follow House Of Lords at jameschristianmusic.com. BJ added this for USA fans: "We hope to see you at a show soon! Also U.S.A. Friends, House Of Lords will be in the Great State Of C.T. at The Mohegan Sun Casino in the Wolf Den Dec 19th for a free X-mas show, We hope to see you there." Feb 1st Munich Germany Garage Deluxe Feb 2nd Innsbruck Austria Harly Bar Feb 3rd Weert Netherlands De Bosuil Feb 4th Essen Germany Turock Feb 5th Obermarchtal Germany Kreuz Feb 6th Wuppertal Germany Mad Dog Feb 7th Veviers Belgium Spirit Of 66 Feb 8th Trieste Italy Etnoblog Feb 10th Lodi Italy Infinity Live Club Feb 11th Trofarello Italy ll Peocio Feb 12th Prateln Switzerland Z7 Rockfabrik Feb 14th Budapest Hungary Club 202 Feb 16th Jonkoping Sweden Zaragon Rock Club Feb 17th Vaxjo Sweden Dirty Harry Feb 18th Trolhatten Sweden Backstage Feb 19th Stockholm Sweden Harry B James Feb 23rd Madrid Spain Sala Carocol Feb 24th Valladolid Spain Porta Caeli Feb 25th Sevilla Spain Sala Custom Feb 27th Lisbon Portugal Clap Box / Music Box Jimi Bell and BJ Zampa from House of Lords will be in-studio guests on this week's edition of Caffeine Bomb. Make sure you tune in at 7:00 p.m. EST on Monday, December 5th, to 91.7 FM WHUS in Eastern Connecticut, also streaming at WHUS.org. Caffeine Bomb is hosted by Roger Lotring, an author and freelance music journalist whose work has appeared in the pages of Metal Hammer, Metal Edge, Classic Rock, Revolver, Shock Wave, Zero and Burn magazines, and at ESPN.com and CMJ.com. Roger is the co-author of "Full Metal Jackie Certified: The 50 Most Influential Heavy Metal Songs of the '80s and the True Stories Behind Their Lyrics". He is also the author of various CD liner notes, including the Motley Crue box set, "Music to Crash Your Car To, Volume 2." 91.7 WHUS is a commercial-free college and community-based radio station broadcasting from the University of Connecticut. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/CaffeineBomb.radio or WHUS.org. ORIZ PREPARES ALBUM NUMBER TWO: Oriz is a new band from Huskvarna (Sweden) who plays melodic hard rock with clear influences of music from the 70-80 century, such as Rainbow, Whitesnake, Deep Purple, but also has influences from more contemporary acts like Nocturnal Rites, Shakra, In Flames, Edguy, Sabaton, Jorn, Gotthard etc. The members of Oriz each have a history in the music scene and has played/plays with a variety of bands. Some of the band has toured abroad and also played as support for major acts such as Paul Dianno (Ex, Iron Maiden), White Lion and others. Almost everyone in the band have training in the music industry and know how it works! Bandleader Alexander Oriz is also a trained music producer, producing music for a variety of other artists and bands. Oriz released their first album Oriz in 2010 through the small record label Blue Topaz Recordings but because of their poor distribution contacts Oriz chose to part ways with Blue Topaz. The band then signed a contract with Doolittle Group for their new release II. "Doolittle group" run by former Narnia member Christian Liljegren has delivered lots of great bands like Divine Fire, Golden Resurrection, Reinxeed, Audio Vision, Grimmark, Swedish Hitz goes metal, etc.. Oriz is now highly topical with their second release called "II", released worldwide in November 2011 by Doolittle Group and contains a stronger material than ever and is a heavy metal fest never too forget! The album was produced / mixed by music producer "Alexander Oriz" and mastered the "Micke Lind" known for his work with Dio, Talisman and Lion's Share! With a strong material and an awesome stage show "Oriz" is more than ready to rock the world and offer an unforgettable show that people never will forget! WebLinks: www.myspace.com/orizrocks / www.doolittle.se / www.dotmusic.se / www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gDpq36tqxk&feature=channel_video_title. SWISS ROCKERS SIDEBURN GET TRIMMED: The Swiss rockers Sideburn, announce that Fred (rhythm guitar, composer), Boris (lead guitar, composer) & Michel (Bass) have left the band in September, but that Roland (lead vocal, composer) & Lionel (drums) have decided to keep on rockin. The new line-up will be announced later this month. More details about their departure will be posted on www.sideburn.ch. "It's always sad to have some partners & friends leaving and we know that it has been a tough call for them, we wish Fred, Michel & Boris all the best for their future. With all the great music released those past years, the fantastic reactions received from our fans and the press worldwide, we really think that we still have much more to give. So stay tuned for some more rock'n'roll in 2012 !" ~ Roland Pierrehumbert & Lionel Blanc - Sideburn. INTRODUCING THE MOB: The Michael Olivieri Band, also known as The M.O.B. have released their debut single entitled Broken Glass on iTunes as well as a video for the single. The video was directed by Karl Leslie Willis. The Michael Olivieri Band will release their debut album M.O.B. on December 21st via iTunes and pre-orders for their debut album will be taken in the coming days. The album was Produced by Michael Olivieri and Mixed by Kevin Beamish (produced acts such as Foreigner, Saxon, Keel, Leatherwolf, and the supergroup Contraband). The Michael Olivieri Band is: Michael Olivieri (Leatherwolf), K.K. Martin (A La Carte, Shark Island), Buzzy James (Laidlaw), Tom Croucier (Vanilla Fudge & the brother of ex-Ratt bassist Juan Croucier), Paul Wilson, Dan Lucett, Eric Von Herzen. Video from The Michael Olivieri Band: youtu.be/etepk8TeDMg. Band website: www.facebook.com/MichaelOlivieriBand. GRAND DESIGN INTERVIEWED: Greece's Rockpages has just put online an interview with Grand Design's Pelle Saether. Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr: Once again, you are paying tribute to the classic Def Leppard sound. In the first interview that we did a couple of years ago, you had stated that Mutt Lange is a big influence. Would you say that this huge production is the big difference of Grand Design in comparison with the other melodic rock bands? Grand Design: Mutt who? (laughs) I think Grand Design wouldn't be Grand Design without a larger than life sound (if that is what u mean by Def Leppard sound – so be it). We also rely on great songs with big catchy choruses. Rockpages.gr: I wrote in my review of "Idolizer" that there is a thin line of being characterized a "copycat" or an artist that simply pays tribute to someone and adds his own elements. Personally, I believe that you fit in the latter category...but, are you afraid or conscious that many fans will accuse of simply ripping of Def Leppard? Grand Design: We get that question from time to time – it's all up to the listeners to decide if they dig it or not. We are doing this by heart & soul and Def Leppard (among other bands) will always be an influence for us. Read The Full Interview On: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=6581&type=1&lang=EN. CRASH STREET KIDS 'SWEET CREATURES' ALBUM STREAMING ON AOL LISTENING PARTY: (5 December, 2011 - Phoenix, AZ) Phoenix based glamsters the Crash Street Kids currently have their new album, Sweet Creatures streaming on the AOL Listening Party program. Available for listening throughout the entire week of Dec 5 (5th - 11th) fans can listen to the album in its entirety or select tracks "on demand" to listen to as they wish at aol.com. "This is a great opportunity for an upcoming band like ours to get noticed a bit," says drummer, A.D. Adams. "In the era of people downloading music illegally, you might as give them a platform to check your music out for free legally, for a whole week, right?!" Sweet Creatures is out though Vanity Music Group in the UK on 16 January and in the US on 17 January 2012. Recently the band had a chance to hang out with their friends in CrashDiet when they met up in Tempe, AZ at CrashDiet's in store performance at Naked Dave's, as well as before and after their show at Club Red. NEW QUEENSRYCHE INTERVIEW ON YOUTUBE: Jack McKissock has produced a new show called Real Rock Stories. In his words: "We are in the process of doing a series of interviews called Real Rock Stories on the Road to generate interest in the show for the networks to see that there is an audience. We are currently in talks with multiple networks. The first of these are with Queensryche. The HD videos are in two parts. One is with Eddie Jackson and Scott Rockenfield. The second is with Geoff Tate, Michael Wilton and Parker Lundgren." Check the interview out at: Part 1 - www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-26pYYg8ZE / Part 2 - www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9W0xllpxsI. U.K. HARD-ROCK BAND – STARSEED - SET TO RELEASE THEIR DEBUT SINGLE IN THE U.S.: The U.K. based hard-rock band, Starseed will debut their new single, Shine in the U.S. on December 6, 2011 through iTunes. Their soaring vocals and powerful melody will leave all hard rock and metal fans begging for more. The US release of Starseed's album, Peace Machine, will be released early 2012.Starseed will also be in the U.S. for promotion early January. Touring with bands such as Godsized and Senser, Starseed has also played major festivals alongside Rage Against The Machine, Rob Zombie, and Linkin Park. Most recently, they performed at the 2011 Download Festival. With these achievements, Starseed are also proud endorsees of PRS Guitars, Blackstar Amps, Tama Drums, Roland, Sabian Cymbals, Rotosound Strings, Protection Racket and TC Electronic. Starseed, who includes Russell Spence (Vocals, Guitars), Gerald Gill (Guitar, Vocals), Peter Wicker (Guitar), Murray McChlery (Bass, Vocals) and Andrew Spence (Drums, Vocals), produce some of the most satisfying melodic hard rock. Epic energy, powerful, and riff driven rock with electrifying stage shows, their music grasps many elements of the post grunge scene drawing influences from early Pearl Jam and Alice In Chains to the power and torment of Soil. More recent comparisons include the tenacity and energy of Stone Sour and intense melody of Alter Bridge. For more information and to keep up to date on Starseed, visit: www.myspace.com/starseedrock / www.facebook.com/starseedrock / www.planetstarseed.com.

 

 

Friday, December 02, 2011

DON'T BE SILLY!! BLAME IT ALL ON THE BEACH BOYS!!: Ok, now it's just getting silly. Rolling Stone magazine journalist Andy Greene is reporting that the "iconic band" that was set to appear at the Grammy Nominations concert was infact the Beach Boys! Here's what has been written today: "What happened? "There was the expectation that the artist involved and we would be ready to announce," Grammy President Neil Portnow told the Telegraph. "We were genuine about the intention and discussion, but the time frame has moved." Many people thought that Van Halen was supposed to be the band, largely due to the fact that the Grammys sent out this not-so-subtle Tweet on November 3rd: "Who do u predict the reuniting band will be @ GRAMMYnoms? Does this hint make u wanna 'Jump' & 'Dance The Night Away?'" This seemed to confirm beyond any doubt that Van Halen was the band, but what many people missed is that the Tweet also linked to a Hitfix story that guessed it was Van Halen. The fine folks at the Grammys merely sent out that Tweet to get people talking, and the Van Halen song titles were a reference to the HitFix prediction. They wanted to open up a whole Twitter-wide guessing game. Unfortunately, all it did was make everyone think that Van Halen were locked in. According to industry sources I've spoken to, Van Halen were never - at any point - lined up to appear at the Grammys special. It's hard to be 100 percent certain, but I'm extremely confident that it was supposed to be the Beach Boys. Their 50th anniversary reunion tour this summer is one of the worst-kept secrets in the music business right now. The Los Angeles Times agrees with my assessment. "Sources close to the show said that talks with the band – reportedly the Beach Boys – fell apart in the 48 hours leading up to the nomination show," the paper reported this morning. "There's hope, however, that the Beach Boys will still be available for the Feb. 12 Grammy Awards." Read more: www.rollingstone.com/music/news/iconic-group-reunion-at-grammys-nominations-concert-doesnt-happen-20111201#ixzz1fKgd5QW6. Give me a break! The Beach Boys? Are you serious?!! I might be willing to accept this but for two glaring points that simply don't stack up. 1 - This rumor was widely reported in national and international press for weeks now. No one in the Van Halen camp thought it worthy of shooting down? Why not? They have shot down just about everything else in the past decade. Allowing this rumor to whip fans into a frenzy for so long without saying a word - if they were not ever involved - is simply a monstrous disrespect and dereliction of duty of care to long suffering fans. 2 - What of this Grammy sent tweet - "@ #GRAMMYnoms? Does this hint make u wanna 'Jump' & 'Dance the Night Away'?" Now, forgive my possible ignorance here, but I'm not aware of ANY other act that has ever had two hit songs called Jump and Dance The Night Away! Now, if the tweet had read something like "Does this make you want to 'Dance, Dance, Dance'...'It's About Time'?", then one could be forgiven for mixing the two bands up. (Dance Dance Dance being a Beach Boys 1964 hit and It's About Time being a 1970 album cut, and a 2004 Van Halen w/Sammy cut!). Like I said yesterday, this will al be brushed aside as if it was never planned. Van Halen are unlikely to appear at the Grammy's Feb 12, as why would that organization go through all this again? Ok, time to just accept this and move on... UFO NEW STUDIO ALBUM "SEVEN DEADLY" WILL BE RELEASED IN FEBRUARY 2012: Nothing would be easier for British rock legend UFO than to rest on their laurels. The band could easily release the occasional best-of album to earn a few additional royalties and otherwise content themselves with looking back at their exceptionally glorious past. And it certainly wouldn't be a problem for UFO to sell out tours on the strength of their legendary name with a great hoopla and low artistic values. But idleness or indeed a musical standstill have always been out of the question for Phil Mogg, Paul Raymond, Andy Parker, and Vinnie Moore. These in equal measures experienced and ambitious musicians are interested in the present, their love of creativity and the active continuation of their celebrated band history. And now we can look forward to Seven Deadly, the band's latest studio album which combines present and future with UFO's greatest fortes. Mogg, Raymond, Parker and Moore are set to release 10 brand-new songs on Steamhammer/SPV in Germany on 24 February 2012 (Europe: 27 February, USA/Canada: 28 February), featuring – without going into great detail at this point – some of the strongest compositions this band has ever recorded. The album will be released as a limited edition digipak (incl. 2 bonus tracks), a Double Gatefold LP with printed innersleeves and coloured vinyl, standard edition and download. What is this bold thesis based on – in view of the countless classics the band has produced throughout its history? Not only on the fact that UFO have that perfect mix of talent, charisma and experience, but also on each individual band member, who currently all seem to be bursting with a zest for action and a wealth of ideas. Seven Deadly is an atmospherically dense fabric consisting of classy guitars, tight rock grooves and vocals which are unique to UFO. So it's no wonder that sound engineer Tommy Newton, in whose Area 51 studio in Celle, Germany, the new tracks were recorded, commented: "I've never heard a better Phil Mogg!" The UFO frontman's thoroughly impressive vocal performance goes hand in hand with the awesome compositions on Seven Deadly. The classic rock of 'Burn Your House Down' features all the important UFO strengths, 'Going Down To Mojotown' sees the musicians sound tougher than ever, and last but not least 'Wonderland' features a pointed reference to UFO's early days. 'Angel Station' sees the band prove how classic rock music is complemented perfectly with epic elements, while 'Fight Night' is an excellent track to be performed in a live context. There's no need to draw attention to the technical skills of original UFO members Paul Raymond and Andy Parker, their music sounding inspired and faultless at the same time. Having said that, Vinnie Moore's exceptional guitar style deserves to be explicitly mentioned. The American musician not only lends the songs expression and power with his haunting licks and dynamic riffs, but also contributes solos on Seven Deadly which can only be described as absolute world class. As already mentioned, UFO continue to be a live force to be reckoned with. Their UK tour has been scheduled for March/April 2012 before the band go on to tour the rest of Europe. A little note in passing: at the time of Seven Deadly's release, UFO will be performing at the Monsters Of Rock Cruise – The Voyage: there could hardly be a more fitting setting for this exciting new album! Photo - from left to right: At the Area 51 Studios, Celle/Germany: Peter Knorn (Manager UFO), Tommy Newton (Sound Engineer), Olly Hahn (A&R Steamhammer), Phil Mogg (Singer UFO). WebLinks: www.ufo-music.info / www.spv.de.   CONGRATULATIONS TO MEGADETH + DREAM THEATER - NOMINATED FOR A GRAMMY AWARD: New York, NY: Roadrunner Records would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Megadeth and Dream Theater for their nominations in the newly combined "Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance" Grammy category for the 54th Annual Grammy Awards. Megadeth, led by singer/guitarist/metal legend Dave Mustaine, have received the 10th nomination of their storied career. The band's first nomination landed in 1990 and they're still garnering nods two decades later. That's a testament to the band's continued and unassailable legacy, permanence and relevance! The band was nominated for "Public Enemy No. 1," from its latest Roadrunner album, Th1rt3en. True to its title, it is the 13th album of the band's career. Megadeth, who have enjoyed five Platinum and multi-Platinum certifications, as well as seven Gold certifications, entered the hard rock and metal scene as standard setters and they've never veered from that path. This 10th Grammy nomination is more proof of this fact. It's also worth noting the auspicious fact that this is Category #13. Dream Theater have garnered their very first nomination for "On the Backs of Angels" from their latest Roadrunner release, A Dramatic Turn of Events. The band is universally recognized as a prog rock institution - they were voted as such by readers of Rolling Stone in an online poll that was conducted earlier this summer. Essentially, the band is globally revered by fans of forward-thinking hard rock. This nomination is well-deserved, as the band embarked on a new journey with a new drummer, emerging from the studio stronger than ever. The album debuted in the Top 10 of sales charts in 11 territories. Dream Theater have sold in excess of 10 million records and DVDs worldwide in their 26 year career. Congratulations again to both Megadeth and Dream Theater. Roadrunner Records, a Warner Music Group label, is extremely pleased to represent two out of the five nominees in this competitive category. The utter dominance in this category is further evidence of the fact that the label remains the most formidable force in the hard rock and metal genre, a claim it has staked for the past 31 years. The 54th annual Grammy Awards will take place in Los Angeles on Feb. 12, 2011. The event will broadcast on CBS. FM – INDISCREET 25 LIVE SHOWS SPECIAL GUESTS ANNOUNCED: FM are very pleased to announce Romeo's Daughter and the Deborah Bonham Band as Special Guests for their Indiscreet 25Live dates next March. Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of their début album, FM will perform Indiscreet in its entirety as part of 3 special shows in March 2012. Indiscreet 25th Anniversary live dates are - March 08 2012 Glasgow Cathouse www.triplegmusic.com March 09 2012 Manchester Academy 3 www.ticketline.co.uk March 10 2012 London O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire www.ticketweb.co.uk Romeo's Daughter will be appearing at all 3 shows, with the Deborah Bonham Band opening at the London show only. WebLinks: www.fmofficial.com / www.facebook.com/FMofficial. FOO FIGHTER SCORE DOUBLE AWARDS FROM NIELSON: The folks from Nielsen's Entertainment division recently caught up with the Foo Fighters backstage at their sold-out Madison Square Garden concert last month to honor them with two awards – the first recognizes the band's more than four million (U.S.) radio plays, captured by Nielsen BDS: And the second is in recognition of the band's more than 10 Million (U.S.) album sales, tracked by Nielsen SoundScan. Pictured here (left-to-right): Pat Smear (Guitarist); Nielsen's Chris Muratore; Tom Corson (COO/President RCA Records); Jeff Gillis (Sr. Director – Pop/Rock Promotion, RCA Records); Dave Grohl (Lead Vocals/Guitarist); Nate Mendel (Bass); Chris Shiflett (Guitarist); Bill Burrs (SVP – Rock Promotion, RCA Records); Taylor Hawkins (Drums); Joe Riccitelli (EVP – CHR Promotion, RCA Records); Peter Edge (CEO, RCA Records); Karen Hope (SVP – Business Affairs, RCA Records); Nielsen's Eric Weinberg; Julie Swidler, (EVP - Business Affairs & General Counsel, Sony Music Entertainment); Dan Zucker (EVP – Business & Legal Affairs, RCA Records).   CD SHOWCASE UPDATED + MORE: A few showcases added today - please check them out. Greg X - Dreams (Indie, out now); Fate - Ghosts From The Past (AOR Heaven, out now) and Lee Small - Jamaica Inn (Escape Music, January 20 release). More new Showcases due next week as well as some new Reviews as we head into the end of the year. Still a heap of reviews due! MRX UPDATE: MRX has been updated once again, this time featuring: - Michael Schenker Group - Assault Attack Studio Demos - Feature Album: A.S.A.P. - Silver And Gold - Featufre Album: Cold Sweat - Break Out (1990) MRX Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, December 01, 2011

UPDATED: VAN HALEN NO SHOW AT GRAMMY NOMINATIONS: Wow...I know...shocking! There was no mention of anything Van Halen at tonight's Grammy Nomination Concert - no hint, no surprise and no video....no nothing! Once again, Van Halen fans were left sucking lemons and wondering why they even bothered tuning in. But wait...Van Halen never said they would appear right? Well, sure...but Van Halen never say anything. Period. It was in fact the Grammy's that started this bullshit rolling. From The Grammy Press Release: "The GRAMMY Nominations Concert Live!" will feature a special, live announcement from a truly iconic group regarding their historic band reunion set to take place on the GRAMMY stage on Feb. 12, 2012." That was followed up by this now infamous tweet: "Who do u predict the reuniting band will be @ #GRAMMYnoms? Does this hint make u wanna 'Jump' & 'Dance the Night Away'?" Ok, so you just don't make this shit up for the sake of it. Something has gone wrong along the way. So why not correct everyone's assumptions? UPDATE: Hollywood Reporter's Music Editor Shirley Halperin has helped clarify the situation - sending out this tweet from backstage at the post-show press briefing - @shirleyhalperin - "Van Halen "weren't quite ready" to make big announcement they promised, says Grammy president Neil Portnow." followed by: "@darylecardone he said to reporters in press room." So the blame has been laid squarely on the shoulders of the band. Just why they pulled out will just have to become Van Halen Conspiracy #312. But someone needs to explain. Why did NO ONE from their camp hose this down in the week/s leading up to the event?? Why does this band treat fans with such arrogant disregard? Simply unbelievable! Not to mention why release that publicity shot a week or two back without ANY press release or statement to accompany it? How hard is it for 4 guys to get together and send out a statement? Anything!!! It looks like we are all back on ice until January....when we may or may not be blessed with another tidbit of info or a stupid picture. UPDATE 2: Neil Portnow, chairman of The Recording Academy, who run the Grammys, made this statement: "In the world of creativity, everything is fluid. In the process of discussions that we had been having with an expectation that perhaps we would be at a point tonight where the artist involved and we, moving forward, would be ready to announce [a reunion], they weren't quite at that point. So it's live television, we go on to the next act. It's rock and roll and so on. That being said, we were genuine about the intention and we are genuine about the discussion." On a somewhat brighter note - it is nice to see Eddie Van Halen ranked at #8 on the new Rolling Stoned Magazine 'Best Guitarists Of All Time' list. I'm not even going to start debating the merits of this list. At least it is less retarded than their last attempt when they listed EVH at #70. And still no mention of Neal Schon? WTF? In their mighty wisdom, Rolling Stoned have printed up 4 special edition covers - featuring the top 3 place getters and then Eddie at #8. Are RS trying to angle for that first big reunion interview one could ask??! Still, nice to see EVH in vintage pose on the cover of any magazine. I got this press blub on the Poll earlier today: "Rolling Stone magazine has once again compiled their "100 Greatest Guitarists Of All Time" list, and this time around Eddie Van Halen is ranked #8. And for this special issue, they have printed four separate covers, one of which Eddie adorns (Issue 1145/Dec. 8, 2011). The last time the publication issued this list (2007), Eddie Van Halen was ranked #70. For this year's list, Rolling Stone "assembled a panel of top guitarists and other experts to rank their favorites and explain what separates the legends from everyone else." Obviously, the voting panel improved since 2007 (see below). *THE VOTERS: Trey Anastasio, Dan Auerbach (The Black Keys), Brian Bell (Weezer), Ritchie Blackmore (Deep Purple), Carl Broemel (My Morning Jacket), James Burton, Jerry Cantrell (Alice in Chains), Gary Clark Jr., Billy Corgan, Steve Cropper, Dave Davies (The Kinks), Anthony DeCurtis (Contributing editor, Rolling Stone), Tom DeLonge (Blink-182), Rick Derringer, Luther Dickinson (North Mississippi Allstars), Elliot Easton (The Cars), Melissa Etheridge, Don Felder, David Fricke (Senior writer, Rolling Stone), Peter Guralnick (Author), Kirk Hammett (Metallica), Albert Hammond Jr. (The Strokes), Warren Haynes (The Allman Brothers Band), Brian Hiatt (Senior writer, Rolling Stone), David Hidalgo (Los Lobos), Jim James (My Morning Jacket), Lenny Kravitz, Robby Krieger (The Doors), Jon Landau (Manager), Alex Lifeson (Rush), Nils Lofgren (The E Street Band), Mick Mars (Motley Crue), Doug Martsch (Built to Spill), J Mascis (Dinosaur Jr.), Brian May, Mike McCready (Pearl Jam), Roger McGuinn (The Byrds), Scotty Moore, Thurston Moore (Sonic Youth), Tom Morello, Dave Mustaine (Megadeth), Brendan O'Brien (Producer), Joe Perry, Vernon Reid (Living Colour), Robbie Robertson, Rich Robinson (The Black Crowes), Carlos Santana, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Marnie Stern, Stephen Stills, Andy Summers, Mick Taylor, Susan Tedeschi, Vieux Farka Tour, Derek Trucks, Eddie Van Halen, Joe Walsh, Nancy Wilson (Heart)." Signing off from the latest chapter of The Days Of Our Van Halens.   PURCHASE CLASSIC ROCK PRESENTS AOR #5: You can purchase the new Classic Rock Presents AOR Magazine (Issue 5) now via this link: www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk/classic-rock-presents-aor-5/. Details of the new issue can be found under Tuesday's news. HOUSE OF SHAKIRA REVEAL NEW OPUS DETAILS: House Of Shakira, one of Sweden's longest running and most respected melodic hard rock bands are back with a revitalised line-up which sees Andreas Novak (solo/ex Mind's Eye) joining on lead vocals, a potent new set of songs and a bright future as their new opus HoS will testify on 27th January 2012, released via Lion Music. The full track listing is now confirmed as: 01. Brick Wall Falling. 02. Changes In Mind. 03. Carry My Load. 04. Zodiac Maniac. 05. Fractions Of Love. 06. Midnight Hunger. 07. Endless Night. 08. All Aboard! 09. What Goes Around… 10. I'll Be Gone. 11. Voice In The Void. 12. Lost In Transition. 13. Out Of My Head.   xx In addition a video teaser of a selection of new tracks can be viewed below:   MITCH MALLOY MERCH SALE: After blowing the roof off at Firefest 2011, and delighting audiences in Madrid and Milan, Mitch Malloy has personally signed the last remaining copies of his CDs, along with a bundle of deluxe 10x8 colour glossies. We also have the few remaining t-shirts from Mitch's wonderful European adventure. The only place to buy these t-shirts (L and XL only – please state required size) and signed items is at Rocktopia.net, and all monies go directly to the artist. So if you haven't picked up a copy of the awesome new album, now's your chance. Or a t-shirt, or nice signed pic. Head on over to the Rocktopia mini-shop now. The PERFECT Xmas gift for that melodic rock fan in your life!!   CHARY SAHONA TO APPEAR AT GUITAR IDOL 3: Venturia founder/guitarist and solo artist Chary Sahona has been selected as a finalist and will appear live at "Guitar Idol III" the world's biggest and best guitar competition with its live final showcase on 4th December 2011 at The Garage, London (N5). Full info on the event at www.guitaridol.tv. Charly Sahona's solo album "Naked Thoughts From A Silent Chaos" (Lion Music) was released in 2010 and he is currently finishing up the production of the third Venturia album (title tbc) set for release in 2012. Book Of Reflections musical mastermind Lars Eric Mattsson has checked in with the follow update. "Things are going well with the new Book Of Reflections album. We are now in the final stages of recording with only the vocals remaining and I am today proud to announce that the phenomenal singer Carsten 'Lizard' Schulz (Evidence One, ex Domain) has joined the team". The new album sees an ever evolving flow in the projects style into progressive neo-classical waters and another vocalist announcement is expected shortly. Book Of Reflections 3 is set for release later in 2012. VERSAILLES RECORDS' UPCOMING DLR-ERA VAN HALEN TRIBUTE: Keeping the rock wheels rolling, next year Versailles Records will release 'Take Your Whiskey Home: A Millennium Tribute to Van Halen- 1977-1984', featuring an exclusive roster of David Lee Roth era-Halen classics (as well as covers from the band's forthcoming untitled reunion album with DLR!) The album will feature performances from current/former members of Aerosmith, Ozzy Osbourne Band, Badlands, Ratt, Dio, Black Sabbath, Quiet Riot, Vanilla Fudge, and others to be announced, in addition to a number of up and coming, Millennium-era rock and metal bands from around the world who grew up on the classic Halen catalog. TONIGHT'S ROCK SHOW FEATURES: Most fans of Hard Rock and Metal are aware of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, and of the fact that it inspired many of the original US thrash bands. But the UK wasn't alone in having it's own new wave of metal! Hot on the heels of Iron Maiden, Saxon and Def Leppard were a plethora of Swedish Hard Rock and Metal bands, and at the centre of the action was guitarist Janne Stark of Overdrive! Overdrive have been back in action for the last few years, but Janne has also been very busy with a range of other projects including the melodic Metal of Locomotive Breath, the Prog-tinged Constancia, and 70s riff resurrection specialists Mountain of Power! Janne will be interviewed on Rich Davenport's Rock Show tonight (Thursday 1st December, 7-8pm UK time, www.salfordcityradio.org/shows.php?id=577 then available on the Listen Again feature at the same link for 3 weeks), and the show will feature tracks from Overdrive (reviving a lesser known Russ Ballard song) and Locomotive Breath. The show also brings you all the platters that matter, with old favourites and killer new cuts from Chris Ousey, April Wine, Matti Alfonzetti, ZZ Top and Thin Lizzy! And from Friday 2nd December, a special extended version of the interview with Janne will be available, featuring tracks from Constancia and Mountain of Power, along with previous interviews from the show (including Pat McManus (Mama's Boys), Sebastian Bach and Uriah Heep) at www.mixcloud.com/richdav1/

 

 

MELODICROCK.COM NEEDS YOUR HELP

Due to an unprecedented deterioration in business conditions I am facing great uncertainty in how MelodicRock.com will continue to operate into the next 12 months. It seems unbelievably ironic that in a year of the best new music in the 15 years I have been running this site, the business as a whole has further eroded to a point where hard decisions again must be faced. MR will continue - that is for certain. But if business does not improve, it will not be able to be done on a full time basis as has been the case for the last decade. As is always the case, I continue to look into new options, new projects and new ways to build revenue for the site. MelodicRock.com needs new advertisers, new sponsors and once again...more support from the awesome loyal reader base. How can you help? Each year I throw up the PayPal Donation button and ask that if anyone that really enjoys the site is able to help contribute via a donation. I'm asking that again now. This is just to get through the immediate future. Long term, something still has to change. I'm in the middle of putting together some long held project ideas to pitch to possible investors. Without going into details here - if investing in the entertainment industry sounds like you - I'd like to hear from you. E-Mail MR: ajm@melodicrock.com Plus there are the various MelodicRock Compilation CDs that can be purchased - MRCD4, MRCD5, MRCD7 and MRCD8 are all still available and those purchases go a long way towards helping and you get some great songs in the process. Buy those at the MR Online Store. I will also start adding brand new Auction Items to EBAY next week that I hope will attract some great bids - all proceeds going towards MR running costs. Stay tuned for announcement of that and links. To any Artists, Labels, Businesses, Publicists or other companies that benefit from this site's existence - I'd love to hear from you also. Now would be the time! If you can donate or add something to the Memorabilia Auction or anything else, please contact me. This time last year I created a donation drive to help design and build a brand new MelodicRock.com site. I want to update folks on that. The money raised was fully invested with a US designer who I have been working with through 2011 on a design suitable to move MR into the next decade. Unfortunately the first two drafts weren't deemed good enough by myself and we continue to work on Plan C. This has taken far longer than I hoped due the slow nature of the work and a designer who seems to have prioritized other larger clients over me. That's the way of the world I guess, but I still hope to launch the new site in the not to distant future. Those that donated will still be the first to see and test the site and I will be in touch with those via e-mail. Thanks for reading and thanks in advance for any help, advice, donations or new business you may be able to provide.     xxxxxx

 

 

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

SIXX:A.M. TEASE DECEMBER ANNOUNCEMENT & OFFICIAL STORE LAUNCH: SIXX:A.M. teased fans about an upcoming announcement on their Facebook page as well as a SIXX:A.M. Image. The band also launched their official store with exclusive deluxe packages. The band stated: "Something is coming for you from us in December...Can you guess what?" Stay tuned... Official Site: sixxammusic.com / twitter.com/sixxam / facebook.com/sixxammusic.   STU MARSHALL TALKS METAL PROJECTS: Australian guitar master Stu Marshall (Empires Of Eden, Ex-Dungeon) discusses his project Empire Of Eden and the collaboration with Ronny Munroe for the album Lords of the Edge and some of the updates on Dragonsclaw's latest work at his Frontier Studios in Sydney, on this video of ArmyOfOneTV. You can watch the video here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXxMlB9HYkg. Compared to other collaborative projects of this kind, Empires of Eden is unique in the extent to which the guest vocalists are involved with the writing of the songs themselves. According to Marshall, although he tailors the instrumental backing to each singer's individual style and preferred range, "They are completely at liberty to write any lyrics they want, and they pen the vocal melodies themselves, too." Having so much artistic freedom not only increases the vocalists' enthusiasm for the project, but also enables them to deliver their best possible performances, unbounded by the usual constraints of the 'guest musician' format. The most recent CD - Reborn in Fire features:- Mike Vescera (Malmsteen / Loudness), Steve Grimmett (Grim Reaper / Lionsheart / Grimmstine), Zak Stevens (Savatage / Circle II Circle), Sean Peck (CAGE), Carlos Zema (Ourworld / Vougan) and many more! WebLink: www.empiresofeden.com.   DD RAND AND KYLE MICHAELS RELEASE NEW SINGLE "RAILS OF STEEL": Guitarist DD Rand and Lead Vocalist Kyle Michaels from the 80s Hard Rock/Metal band Ravage out of Chicago have come together to release their new single "Rails of Steel". This amazing rock ballad mixes layers of acoustic guitars and then it slams into the wall of sound followed by an epic guitar solo. But, what really takes this song "Rails of Steel" to the next level is the incredible vocals of Kyle Michaels. Kyle Michaels has performed with the Geezer Butler Band who was the legendary bass player for (Black Sabbath) and also, Guitar Virtuoso Masi (Lion Music), Plus of course the 80's metal sensation Ravage (Shrapnel Records / Dark Star Records). DD Rand and Kyle Michaels prove once again that they have what it takes to make a rock ballad of epic proportions. Dark Star Records and SGL Entertainment are already making plans to place the song in some upcoming movies and television shows. DD Rand currently has deals with Dark Star Records, Shrapnel Records and Retrospect Records. The New Single "Rails of Steel" is now available on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/album/rails-of-steel-single/id478296389 The New Single "Rails of Steel" is also available at Amazon.com: amzn.com/B0063MXK9W. For more info on DD Rand Go To: www.reverbnation.com/dougtheinerddrand / www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1078174206.   CHARLIE ZELENY: "DRUMAGEDDON" THE ULTIMATE DRUM SOLO: 1 Drummer, 1 HD Camera, 1 Take Non-Stop Drum Solo Up An Entire Brooklyn Building From Street to Roof. Virtuoso Drumset Solo Artist Charlie Zeleny has performed The Ultimate Drum Solo entitled "Drumageddon" up an entire multi-floor building in Brooklyn NYC from the Street to Roof in one continuous take using a single HD camera in tow. Charlie Z shredded drums through multiple floors & hallways of the building without stopping using multiple Protools rigs and 4 separate complete drumsets along with stage hands moving parts of drumsets along with him between locations in the 7+ minute Drum Solo video. This Ultimate Drum Solo featured drummer Charlie Z improvising everything from bombastic Rock Drumming, Latin Jazz Fusion and Gospel Chops R&B Shredding to fast Drum N Bass and Progressive Metal drum solos. The grand finale is on Charlie Z's gigantic 40 Piece Drumset on top of the graffiti stricken roof overlooking the Empire State Building and the NYC Skyline. All the cutting edge camera work was filmed by breakout Director Chris Ott of Evil Dog Films and all the epic sound was captured by master Engineer Brian Penny of Three Egg Studios along with logistical experts Jason Rutherford and Freddy Nightliker of Cablesmith and Bryan Kane, Three Egg Studio owner and lead singer of the indie rock powerhouse Bone Gunn. The "Drumageddon" Video is the Intro Video for his upcoming 3 hr 33 min Drum Instructional DVD entitled "Sphera Drumultium: The Ring of Ultimate Drum Totality" coming Spring of 2012 through Drumageddon Productions, Evil Dog Films, Three Egg Studios, Connector Entertainment Group, Cablesmith Cables & Universal Live Audio/Video. Charlie Zeleny has toured/recorded with Jordan Rudess, Terry Bozzio, Joe Lynn Turner, Blotted Science, Behold the Arctopus, Suspyre, Kayodot, The Great Kat, Rock of Ages, Kristin Chenoweth, XV (rapper), Outasight, Sony Music artists, Warner Bros. Records artists and has performed at venues like a sold out Giants Stadium, Lincoln Center, El Coliseo de Puerto Rico, Irving Plaza, The View, AOL Sessions, Iridium Jazz Club, BB Kings and IZOD Arena. Charlie Z has also toured 19 countries, 39 US States and can be heard on over 70 albums in addition to being in Sick Drummer Magazine's "Hall of Fame" and Blender Magazine as "One of the Best Drummers of All-Time." Connect with Charlie Zeleny here: www.CharlieZeleny.com / www.YouTube.com/DrumDocZ / www.Facebook.com/CharlieZeleny. "Drumageddon" YouTube Link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=roZL-dYzAss&hd=1.

 

 

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

CLASSIC ROCK MAGAZINE ANNOUNCES DETAILS OF ISSUE 5: Sunset Strip superstars Mötley Crüe grace the cover of issue No.5 of Classic Rock Presents AOR. In an AOR world exclusive, we've got all-new interviews with all four Crüe members – Nikki Sixx, Vince Neil, Mick Mars and Tommy Lee. They consider the band's longevity and their final legacy – when not indulging in internal squabbles, airing beefs with other rock bands and evading the press. Nice to see some things don't ever change… Plus we name the Crüe's Top 10 Most Melodic Moments. And we tell the tale of Dr Feelgood, the 1989 breakthrough album that propelled the band into the big time. We've also got a sensational 15-track free CD, titled AORmania, featuring all-new tracks from Houston, Fiona, Grand Illusion, Fate, Reckless Love, Mecca and more. Elsewhere in the issue, we talk to Norwegian melodic rock goddess Issa about her sublime new album, The Storm. Former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach comes clean about loving power ballads, starring on Broadway and the tensions caused by being the hottest guy in your band. There's a revealing chat with the legendary David Crosby. Having lost his lover to a car crash and his mind to an ever-more-wild cocktail of illicit substances, in 1970 the former Byrd retreated to the studio and distilled these miseries into his haunted, transcendent, Vatican-approved solo album, If Only I Could Remember My Name. That's not all. There are further features on Shy, Y&T, Lindsey Buckingham, Tokyo, Doogie White, Davy Vain, Le Roux, Starship… and a six-page review of Firefest, the UK AOR scene's live event of the year, starring Jimi Jamison, W.E.T., Jeff Scott Soto, Steve Augeri, Strangeways, Newman, Coney Hatch, White Widdow, Mitch Malloy, Unruly Child… All this, plus reviews of all the latest AOR albums and live reviews of Def Leppard, Heart, the Electric Boys, The Union, Bret Michaels and more. Finally, we deliver our verdict on the controversial Rock Of Ages hair-metal musical – did we love it, or did we loathe it? Find out in issue No.5 of AOR! Onsale link active from November 30 - will be posted right here.   Firefest 2011 REVIEW: UK MR fan Mark Donnelly wrote a very comprehensive review of the recent Firefest event, and I'm pleased to share it with you here via a PDF download. The introduction from Mark is below, followed by a link to the file. "This was the seventh Firefest that I had attended but the first year that I decided to go to all three days and I have to say that it was one of the best decisions of my life. As I was very fortunate to go on holiday a few days after the festival, it has taken me longer than usual to write the review of the weekend. As a result, there may be a few errors in terms of songs played and definitely in their running orders. Please accept my apologies for any inaccuracies. This was the eighth Firefest and had by far the best organisation and sound of any of the other previous seven. Indeed, the organisation was so good that it was virtually impossible to take time between any of the bands to go and take on much needed sustenance. Most people chose which bands to miss each day in order to go and get something to eat, however, I managed to catch all eighteen bands over the weekend and only missed the opening tracks of a couple of the sets. Prior to the announcement of the full line-up I only predicted four of the bands that would actually play this weekend and one of those were only added at the last minute! Just goes to show what I know... The camaraderie between the fellow festival goers, originating from over twenty countries throughout the world, is second to none and one of the main reasons why Firefest has managed to continue over the years. If only the world could be like this all of the time... I have heard recently that this may be the last time that Firefest will be held at Nottingham's Rock City. I personally have mixed feelings about the latter; coming from Sheffield it is very easy for me to travel to and the stage provides an excellent view of the bands plus there are reasonably priced hotels in the near vicinity; on the other hand the sound is never the best in Rock City and there is virtually nowhere for us aged rockers to sit and relax in between bands. No doubt I will travel to wherever it is held but I do hope that it maintains a central location or even a Northern one as opposed to moving to the capital. I hope those that read this review either relive the great weekend or come to some understanding of why I am so obsessed about this genre of music. Please do not be put off by the number of pages as there are a lot of pictures and set-lists. Please enjoy... Download: Firefest 2011 - Review by Mark Donnelly - Including full set lists for each artist. G3 BRINGS VAI, SATCH AND LUKE DOWNUNDER: Initial dates have been announced for the 2012 version of Joe Satriani's G3 Tour project. In addition to Satriani, the featured guitarists will be Steve Lukather and Steve Vai. Lukather is reported to be doing an opening set of solo tunes and then joining the other two guitarists towards the end of the main set. Tour dates are: March 24 Michael Fowler Centre Wellington, New Zealand March 25 Logan Campbell Centre Greenlane Auckland, New Zealand March 27 Royal Theatre Canberra, Australia March 30 Hordern Pavillion Sydney, Australia March 31 Palais Theatre St. Kilda, Victoria, Australia April 3 Festival Theatre Adelaide, South Australia, Australia April 5 Convention Centre Brisbane, Queensland, Australia April 6 Byron Bay Bluesfest Byron Bay, Australia WebLink: www.satriani.com/G3.   INTRODUCING X-UFO: Early 2011 saw the beginning of a great new classic rock band. Well, we say new, in fact these guys have played with some of the biggest names in rock history. Now working together to bring to life some true classic tracks with a playing pedigree that most can only dream of, 2011 is the year X-UFO come out to play. The band features card-carrying UFO members Laurence Archer, Danny Peyronel and Clive Edwards, with Rocky Newton, from UFO spin-off MSG. Laurence (Guitar & Vocals), also played with Phil Lynott's Grandslam, Stampede and Tarzen; Danny (Lead Vocals), the original UFO keyboardsman/vocalist, with the Heavy Metal Kids and Tarzen; Clive (drums), with Wild Horses, Pat Travers, Uli Jon Roth and Lionheart and Rocky (Bass & Vocals), with the Michael Schenker Group, Royal Blood (w/Alex Masi) and Lionheart. Between them, these boys' track records range from writing hits for UFO, Thin Lizzy, MSG, Meatloaf and even David Gilmour, to singing vocal harmonies on Def Leppard's mega-classics "Pyromania" and "Hysteria". As you can see the bands' pedigree is in no doubt and as for the show you can expect some great classics based around the UFO album "Lights Out In Tokyo" and "No Heavy Petting" and spanning the ultra-classic UFO years. The band are fired up and ready to go, so prepare yourselves for a cracker of a show with X-UFO! X-UFO recently played superb and well received sets at both the Aero Rock Festival in Bulgaria and at the Hard Rock Hell Festival in Ibiza as well as a sold out show in Milano a few weekends ago and are just about to release a new Live CD, recorded in Hannover, Germany with legendary Producer, Steve Mann, which will be available very soon. This includes blistering new recordings of UFO classics Lights Out, Only You Can Rock Me, Rock Bottom, Doctor Doctor and more! The CD can be pre-ordered from: nigel.hart@bt.com. The band are also busy writing new material for a studio CD early in 2012. YouTube Promo: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OH8uvsbg0fY.   WALLNER/VAIN TO RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM IN FEBRUARY 2012: Los Angeles based hard rock artists Will Wallner (Guitarist) & Vivien Vain (Vocalist) will release their debut album on February 1st 2012. The release and promotion will be handled by Los Angeles based company 'Metal Assault'. The album will feature guest musicians including Carmine Appice, Vinny Appice, Brian Tichy, Rudy Sarzo, Tony Franklin, Jimmy Bain, Derek Sherinian and Tony Carey providing an all-star backing. The album was recorded in Los Angeles throughout 2011 and mixed by Gary Tole in New York. Mastering was completed in September 2011 by Graham Goldman at Masterdisk. Both in their early twenties, Will Wallner and Vivien Vain came to America from Europe to pursue a career in music. After a year of performing locally in Los Angeles they had a chance meeting with Carmine Appice and Vinny Appice at the Rainbow Bar & Grill on the Sunset Strip in 2010. Both agreed to perform drums for their album and since that first meeting the project evolved featuring several other guest session musicians with Will Wallner and Vivien Vain performing all guitars and vocals respectively. Their debut features nine original songs written and produced by Wallner/Vain. The album cover features Wallner/Vain photographed by Glen La Ferman. A music video for the song 'Streets Of Rage' will be released with the album, which was produced in Hollywood in September 2011. Wallner/Vain will announce live dates to promote their album release in the next couple of months. For more information go to www.wallnervain.com. Here's a link to a preview of the music video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=EkUhO8QXuTk&feature=channel_video_title.   MELODIC BRIEFS: In a new 3-part exclusive Video Interview, Shockwaves host Bob Nalbandian interviews Anvil's Steve "Lips" Kudlow as he delves deep into the early days of Anvil up through the present and gives perhaps his most revealing interview ever about the history of Anvil and the back story behind the critically acclaimed The Story Of Anvil movie. To view all the Shockwaves VideoCast video interviews, please visit our YouTube Channel at: YouTube.com/bnalbandian. MelodicRock readers are invited to sample John Pratt's entire album Turn The Page at it's new YouTube homepage. The songs are full length and of the highest audio quality afforded by that portal. www.youtube.com/user/JohnPrattTurnThePage. Jim Gilmour from Saga will have a eye surgery (saga-germany.de/content/). He was replaced during the German Tour by Thomas Elsenbruch and Hans-Willi Carl form the German Saga-Cover-Band: "The Chapters". John Waite performed in November during his east coast 'Rough and Tumble tour'' to promote the new album several times on USA TV. Here you can watch the videos a.o Missing You and If You Ever Get Lonely (acoustic) Plus some pictures and an interview: www.johnwaitethesinger.com. Adrian Weiss (guitarist of Forces At Work) now finally releases his full length instrumental solo debut album entitled Big Time featuring 14 guest musicians including Victor Smolski (Rage) and many others! The album contains 11 songs ranging from melodic rock to progressive power Metal. For more information: www.adrianweissmusic.de. Video Shooting done by BeRock Radio & Radar Rock Magazine for Greek melodic Rockers Wild Rose's Event at Bat City Rock Club on 29 October 2011. www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQsVV6GMbuQ&feature=colike. INTRODUCING PHOENIX RISING: Coming out from the ashes of the underground melodic scene, Rockshots Music Management & Promotion Agency is proud to present Phoenix Rising, a new sensational AOR band from Rome/Italy presenting its first self-titled demo tape. Here you can find 6 songs of high quality AOR – melodic rock reminiscent of the great bands of the genre such as Journey, Giant, Boston, Pride Of Lions just to name a few with a very personal songwriting and taste of writing melodies. Catchy refrains since the very first listening and outstanding sense of melody are the trademarks of these 6 demo tracks. The Phoenix Rising project was created in 2008 by Titta Tani (ex-DGM, Daemonia, Goblin, Ashent) and Andrea Gentili, the duo worked hard on the new material which can be found on this demo tape but the project was moved aside for a period of time due to personal circumstances and studio engagements. But now the time has come!!! Today Phoenix Rising is a real and full-time band which with its sound and music wishes to create something fresh and interesting in the AOR / Melodic Rock scene. Led by Titta Tani (who also took care of all the lyrics and the drums on the demo) on vocals and background vocals and by the very talented guitar player Andrea Gentili, the band is also made up of Francesco Di Battista on drums, Gilles Boscolo (Ashent) on keyboards and Alessandro Jacobi (Burning Black) on bass. Two of the songs included on this demo tape, Believe (Feeling Forever) and Fade Away have been written, played and arranged by Andrea Maddalone, the guitar player of the Italian progsters legends New Trolls (and well known session player for many other important acts). After having released these 6 songs demo tape, the band is once again in the studio writing new material which will be released pretty soon in a full length album followed by a tour. Phoenix Rising are represented (booking, discography and promotion) by: Rockshots Music Management & Promotion Agency - www.rockshots.eu. WebLink: www.phoenixrisingband.net   MULTI-PLATINUM ROCKERS DROWNING POOL TO PART WAYS WITH SINGER: New York, NY– All-American anthemic rockers Drowning Pool announced today that they will be parting ways with their current singer, Ryan McCombs. The hard working Texas band, who has worked with 3 singers in their 10 year career, issued the following statement: "We have always been a band who has gained success despite having multiple singers...maybe we suffer from reverse 'lead singer's disease," said C.J. Pierce. "Changing things up has not always been easy, but the band has become re-energized time and time again. We are looking to find a new singer who will give both us and, and most importantly our fans, the new adrenaline shot they deserve." He went on to say, "We do wish Ryan great success in his future endeavors." McCombs, who had been part of the band since 2006, replaced singer Jason Jones, who joined Drowning Pool following the tragic passing of Dave Williams. Drowning Pool turned the world into believers with their breakthrough single "Bodies" in 2001. Ten years, three singers and four albums later, they're giving fans a new reason to believe. "Feel Like I Do," the lead single from their self-titled fourth studio release [Eleven Seven Music], became the band's biggest radio hit to date, reaching No. 2 at Active Rock Radio, and remaining in the Top 5 for 12-weeks. With2009's "37 Stitches" off of Full Circle reaching #4 at Active Rock and "Feel Like I Do," the band had 2 consecutive Top 5 Active Rock smashes and cemented their place as one of the top hard rock acts today. The band's sophomore album, Desensitized with second singer Jason Jones spawned a Top 10 hit with "Step Up." Recent successes have paved the way for unique opportunities such as presenting the Lane Evans Mental Health Care Reform to then-senator Barack Obama on Capitol Hill, performing for our troops all over the world and partnering with organizations like The Wounded Warrior Project and the G.I. Film Festival. Drowning Pool is currently looking to find a suitable replacement for McCombs. In the meantime, they have already begun writing their 5th studio album in their hometown of Dallas. Drowning Pool is C.J. Pierce – guitar/ vocals, Stevie Benton – bass/vocals, and Mike Luce – drums/vocals." TEENAGE CASKET COMPANY RELEASE THEIR BEST KEPT SECRET: Nottingham UK Power Pop Rockers Teenage Casket Company are proud to announce the long awaited release of their new album 'Best Kept Secret'. Released through Jamsync Music in the US and available worldwide, the 11 track CD comprises the most popular songs from their first 2 releases, 2005's 'Dial It Up' and the 2006 follow up EP 'Eat Your Heart Out', along with the band's recent single 'Best Friend Is My Radio' - all tracks have been remastered and the album features stunning artwork and exclusive liner notes from Hardrock Haven's Derric Miller. Bassist Rob Lane commented on the album's conception: 'When Jamsync approached us to re-release our first 2 CDs in the US it made for the perfect opportunity to create a brand new album of our favourite songs and give us a real solid introduction to people in the US who may have missed us first time around when we were working things totally on our own. So, whilst it may seem a little odd for an underground band to release a 'Best Of' it just seemed a great chance for us to kickstart Chapter 2 of TCC!' Best Kept Secret is available through all popular music retailers - Amazon / Play.Com / HMV / iTunes or direct from the Jamsync Music Website at www.jamsyncmusic.com/?product=secret. "For a statement of intent and re-birth then you don't get much better - immediate, hook-heavy and will stay with you after just a single listen. Musically you have to sit back and wonder how these guys failed to catch a ride to the A-list first time around. Perfect 80s infused pop rock that hints at everyone from Cheap Trick and The Ramones to Marvelous 3. It's personally hard for me to pick favourites here as the collection is so solid." Rockpit.net "A lethal combination of driving guitars, hooks, soaring choruses and pure addictiveness. Whilst the songs capture a snapshot in time, if new track 'Best Thing Is My Radio' is any indication, arguably the most infectious song the band has written and recorded, TCC will be a Best Kept Secret for not much longer." Maytherockbewithyou.com Teenage Casket Company will follow up the release of the album with a brand new single and video 'Without You' scheduled for release early 2012 and a new EP shortly afterwards. For more information visit www.teenagecasketcompany.co.uk. AMBIENT PROGRESSIVE METAL BAND, OCEANS OF NIGHT, RELEASE NEW CD, DOMAIN: Domain is the second CD release from progressive metal band, Oceans of Night. Mixed and mastered by Joey Vera (Fates Warning, Armored Saint, Engine) Domain features a refined focus on the staples of the Oceans of Night sound: soaring vocal melodies, evocative guitar solos, sophisticated rhythm structures, and dynamic song arrangements wrapped in a tapestry of percolating ambience. Epic and cutting edge, this is music that makes a bold and powerful statement. Track Listing: 1. Domain: 17:39 2. Don't Look to Me: 5:10 3. So Near Yet So Far: 5:28 4. Dreams in Artificial Sunlight: 3:32 5. Divisions of Time: 5:17 6. Seven Days of Rain: 6:12 7. The View to You: 8:28 8. Instruments of Fear: 4:14 9. The Future Remembered: 4:20 10. Ghosts of the Past: 4:25. Rising from the ashes of the eponymous solo band lead by musical mastermind Scott Mosher, from 1996 through 2004, Oceans of Night also features vocal powerhouse Scott Oliva and the drum mastery of the talented Alan Smithee. Oceans of Night released their crushing debut CD, The Shadowheart Mirror, in 2009. Through the course of 6 CD's, multi-instrumentalist Scott Mosher has bridged the worlds of progressive metal, melodic hard rock and ambient sounds to create an experimental yet complimentary style of music that is at once as subtle as it is powerful, aggressive as it is dynamic and timeless as it is modern. Scott Oliva continues to perform in legendary NY Iron Maiden tribute band, Live After Death and The Nightmare Stage. He has also written, performed and recorded with Wind Wraith and Inner Strength. The Scott's had first worked together on Mr. Mosher's 4th CD release, Deep Horizon, in 2006. For more information, visit: www.oceansofnight.com and www.cdbaby.com/Artist/OceansofNight. FLOOR JANSEN RETURNS STAGE, SET TO JOIN PAGAN'S MIND FOR AMSTERDAM SHOW: Dutch singer extraordinaire Floor Jansen, formerly with After Forever, currently fronting her own band REVAMP, is set to return to stage in her homeland joining Pagan's Mind in Amsterdam's legendary venue Melkweg on December 16. This will mark her first Dutch live appearance since her burn-out earlier this year, which forced her to put on hold band activities until further notice. Floor Jansen says: "As some of you might know, this is not the first time I join Pagan's Mind on stage, and this is a great chance for me to slowly work myself back where I want to be. I just tried out a bit joining Mayan on stage in Brazil, but singing with my Norwegian friends in Amsterdam will be special for me. Not only will it be the first show in a long time in my home country, but having the chance to sing with such a talented band again will be a special treat. I hope to see many of my Dutch friends in Amsterdam." Jorn Viggo Lofstad, guitar player and producer for Pagan's Mind, adds: "We met Floor for the first time when we jammed at the ProgPower festival in Atlanta in 2007, and we immediately established a friendship, which not only lead to Floor joining us on stage later that year, but also to a creative process between myself and her, resulting in a yet to be completed rock album that one day will surprise you all. Seeing how the business side of things eventually took its toll on Floor, we are very happy that her situation is improving and look forward to have her as our guest when closing 2011, which has been a great year for Pagan's Mind." Pagan's Mind live 2011 15.12. NL-Tilburg - 013 16.12. NL-Amsterdam - Melkweg 17.12. B-Vosselaar - Biebob 18.12. NL-Zwolle – Hedon WebLinks: www.pagansmind.com / www.spv.de. NIJI ENTERTAINMENT GROUP ANNOUNCES COLLECTIBLE DIO RELEASES: Without question, Ronnie James Dio was one of the greatest vocalists in hard rock/heavy metal history, who built a fanatical and devoted following during his multi-decade career. And in the coming months, Dio collectors will have the opportunity to pick up some truly one-of-a-kind releases ­ a limited edition picture disc of Elf's self-titled debut album, a deluxe picture disc of the Dio release 'Master of the Moon,' and a limited edition and deluxe numbered super secret Picture Disc that will make HISTORY for Record Store Day 2012! As a reminder, just released is the amazing, "And Before Elf....... There Were Elves" featuring both live in the studio and live on stage tracks from 1971 from The Elves featuring a young Ronnie James Dio on vocals! The packaging is spectacular! The CD comes housed in a digi pack with a custom Lenticular cover! When you turn the cover to the right, you see an image and when you turn it to the right, you see a completely different image! This CD is in stores now! December 13th will see the release of the very first Elf album, as a deluxe numbered picture disc. Originally issued in 1972, the album shows off Dio's vast vocal talents, as he handles honky tonk, blues, and rock, rather than the mega decibel rock that would later become his trademark. This release will be issued in the USA only, and each LP will be individually numbered from 1-2,500. The next release, the 'Master of the Moon' deluxe numbered picture disc, will be released on March 13, 2012. The album was originally issued in 2004, was Dio's tenth studio solo effort overall, and featured such renowned rock names as Simon Wright on drums, Craig Goldy on guitar, Scott Warren on keyboards, and Jeff Pilson on bass. Unlike the other two aforementioned releases, the 'Master of the Moon' deluxe picture disc will not be a limited edition release. And lastly, on Record Store Day 2012 (April 16, 2012, to be exact), The Niji Entertainment Group has something very special that will sell out instantly! We don't want to give it away yet, but trust us, fans will be waiting in line at participating Record Store Day locations to scoop this release up! Dio fans will be the first to know about it, so join the Official Ronnie James Dio Fan Page On Facebook! Also recently launched is the Official Dio Store, where fans can buy shirts, CD's, DVD's, Blu-rays and more from Dio, Heaven & Hell and other artists signed to the label: officialronniejamesdiowebstore.com/content/ Don't wait long to pick up these three beautifully assembled Dio releases! These releases will be sold in local record stores across the US as well as online music retailers like Amazon.com and the Official Dio Web Store! The Official Dio Fan Page on Facebook gets over 25,000,000 visitors a month, and once the word is spread about this project, fans will be waiting in line overnight to get their copies. Get ready for some vintage Dio rock…with a sleek new look! FORMER TANGO DOWN SINGER ALEX BARBIERI RETURNS WITH ANGELS & DEVILS: Stamford, CT, November 2011: Singer Alex Barbieri, who is known in hard rock circles for his vocal performance on Tango Down's "Damage Control" album, has announced that he is putting a new all-star band together called Angels & Devils. The band will play classic rock covers, along with bluesy hard rock originals. Barbieri says, "I am very excited to share this news with my friends in the rock world. After Tango Down, I took a year or so off to regroup and figure out what I wanted to do next, musically. I really didn't know for a long time. I was happy hanging out with my girlfriend and learning to play golf. But recently, I sang with a friend's band, and was reminded of how much I love it. That rush of performing live. My voice feels very strong, thank God, so I knew it was time to get back out there—and for the right reasons: the joy of singing and love of performing." On the name, Angels & Devils, Barbieri explains, "The name came to me in the shower one morning—Angels & Devils—I thought, that's it! The name of my new band. It's so simple, but meaningful at the same time. We all have angels and devils inside of us … good and bad, light and dark. It's the human condition—the balance of life." Barbieri says the concept of Angels & Devils is to have a band of top-notch, professional musicians playing the greatest classic rock songs of our time. "I really want to get back to that rich, bluesy style of singing that I love and grew up listening to—that David Coverdale/Paul Rodgers sound. So, this band is going to be all about the blues-based rock that is just so timeless and great to listen and sing along to, especially live. I'm talking about AC/DC, Bad Company, Black Crowes, Dio-era Sabbath, Thin Lizzy, Rainbow, Foreigner, Journey, Zeppelin, Whitesnake, you get the idea. We'll also do some songs people won't expect, like Duran Duran and INXS, Fleetwood Mac to Foo Fighters. Classic rock is no longer a dirty word. Even young kids—who are bombarded with entertainment choices—realize that this music is the shit. It's real, organic, full of emotion and sexuality, and just plain rocks." When asked if Angels & Devils will do originals, Barbieri replied, "Absolutely, I would love to. Once we get rolling, I am definitely open to writing original material and working them into the set. But our songs will have to stand up side-by-side with some great classic rock, so the quality will have to be very high." It's also very important to Barbieri that Angels & Devils be a top-notch lineup. "I'm back and I'm not playing around. I want this band to be like an all-star baseball team, where every player rocks their position and brings it every game … so that I'm inspired and the rock fans who come see Angels & Devils get a great evening of classic rock that's worth their time and effort to come out to the gig." Barbieri says he is not ready to announce the official lineup of Angels & Devils just yet, but hopes to in the next month or two. "I'm talking to some very talented and accomplished musicians, and feeling very thankful that things are falling into place. I appreciate your interest, and will be sharing more information soon!" Friend Angels & Devils on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/alexbthecopywriter?ref=tn_tnmn#!/AngelsandDevilsband?sk=wall / To contact Alex Barbieri about Angels & Devils, email abarbieri70@aol.com.

 

 

Monday, November 28, 2011

KIVEL RECORD'S TANGO DOWN SUFFER IDENTITY CRISIS: Kivel Records Press Release / Tango Down is kicking 2012 off opening for none other than, Y&T just in time to drop a new album! Identity Crisis, with their new vocal madman - none other Mr. David Reece (of Bangalore Choir and Accept fame). Believe us when we say, that he delivered beyond our expectations and we can't wait for all to hear. We are very proud of what was accomplished on this album. So without further adieu we want to unveil the band's new album cover! Identity Crisis, which was photographed by Award winning Photographer Kent Miller, who has worked with the likes of Steven Tyler, Beyonce, Eddie Van Halen and too many to name. Album artwork was designed by renowned illustrator/Graphic designer, Thomas Ewerhard, who has created such fine pieces of visual art for the likes of Avantasia, Edguy, Testament and many more! This winning team delivered the goods and then some!! We hope you dig as much as we do. You can pre order the CD now at www.kivelrecords.com starting Mon November 28. All pre-orders will receive a signed poster of the album cover, and band 8x10. (Qty limited to the first 100 pre orders) Release date March 2012. Not stoping there, Tango Down have shows booked and kicking them off - they will be opening for the Great... Y&T in March! David Reece: "I'm really excited to get the chance to play live with Tango Down again, and showcase the new record to you all! I hope to see you all at these shows!" Scott Miller: "We can't wait to get out there! Dave is the man and playing with him has been a blast!! He delivered on this album and will blow a lot of people away. He is a pro and went above the call to deliver imho a stellar performance that can't be rivalled. We are excited to play these new songs live. Not to mention opening for Y&T!!!!" March 3rd - Chance Theater Poughkeepsie NY (w/ Y&T) March 4th - The Rock Junction Coventry RI (w/ Y&T) **More shows will be announced for the month of march and April in the coming months.   JEFF PARIS UNITES FOR JAPAN: This news blast came direct from AOR God Jeff Paris - please read on: "After the Japan tsunami in March, Terry Ilous (XYZ, Great White) and I ("a nice bloke"- Charlotte Bailey) approached the Red Cross with an idea to use music to raise money for disaster relief. First we focused on Japan, but this year proved to be so catastrophe prone that we expanded to a global perspective. It's been quite a learning curve, but everything's set up. Our organization is called "United Rockers 4 U" (UR4U). On December 12 we're releasing our single "One Family," featuring Eddie Money, Jimi Jamison, Robin McAuley (Survivor), Don Dokken (Dokken), Bobby Kimball (Toto), Paul Shortino (Rough Cutt), Michael Thompson, Ritchie Kotzen, and members of Whitesnake, Quiet Riot, Dio, Guns N Roses and others. All these artists donated their performances to our cause. Beau Hill (Ratt, Winger, Warrant, Alice Cooper, Europe, etc.) mixed it and it's slamming. It's straight up melodic rock, and really worth having. It'll be available on iTunes, Amazon, etc. shortly. All proceeds from the sale of "One Family" go to the Red Cross. So in order to handle some unavoidable costs (mixing, CD pressing, publicist, etc.) we're asking for donations. If you want to help, and believe me, no donation is too small, go online to unitedrockers4u.org. There's a PayPal button for contributions, and whatever you can do, we appreciate. Terry and I are dads, and we saw clips on the news that just brought us to tears. "That could be us," we said to each other. Do you have to be Sting or Angelina Jolie to do something significant to help the afflicted? Nah!! Thanks for taking the time to read this. Check out the website, and honestly, anything you do is awesome. Thanks and happy holidays ~ Jeff." ROYAL HUNT STUDIO DIARY PT 5: Royal Hunt: Part 5 of the Studio Report has been uploaded: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Opaq8IprmwQ. MODERN METAL FROM ONE WITHOUT: Swedish Modern Metal band One Without has released a new music video for the track Nothing To You from the new album Sweet Relief that was released world-wide by Italian label Wormholedeath on the 19th of October. The video was filmed and edited by Markus Mönttinen and co-edited by One Without. Watch the video for Nothing To You here: youtu.be/CbQVX0hnx7o?hd=1. One Without will be touring Europe with the metal bands Dead By April and Marionette in December. WebLinks: www.onewithout.com.

 

 

Friday, November 25, 2011

AOR HEAVEN ADD TO THEIR CLASSIX SERIES: German based label and mail-order company AOR Heaven has just re-issued the next much sought after AOR gem on their Classix series. Following hot on the heels of the October re-issue of Urgent's Thinking Out Loud, the series continues with the 1991 released one off shot Night Street from Roxus, an album that still stands as a true AOR gem! Featuring a digitally remastered sound by Chris Lyne (Soul Doctor), including liner notes by Dave Reynolds and the great bonus track Body Heat (studio version), the reissue is a must-have for any AOR fan! The album is as usual available through www.aorheaven.com, selected retailers and through Cargo in the UK. In January 2012 the AOR Heaven Classix series will get continued with the re-release of Gregg Rolie's legendary Gringo album.   xx AOR BLVD RECORDS ANNOUNCE NEW RELEASES: AOR BLVD Records are based in South London, UK and set up by Paul Rudland and Kelv Hellrazer. 2010 saw our first release of Push UK – Strange World (ABR 001). November 2011 sees the long overdue second release of Milwaukee Rockers Warp Drive, produced by Rickey Medlocke, ex-Blackfoot and current Lynryd Skynryd. Warp Drive Something To Believe In (ABR 002) contains 10 tracks recorded between 1990 and 1992 and two new bonus 2011 recordings. Frederic Slama, AOR project, has now reached album number 10 (The Colors of LA Displays The Works Of A Genius), masterminded behind the vision of combining nothing but the best musicians to create that vision to CD format. AOR – The Colors of LA (ABR 003) – release date: 27 January 2012. David A Saylor – City of Angels - Push UK's frontman returns to the spotlight for a solo adventure mixing the styles of Pride of Lions meets Jimi Jamison inspired influences. An additional three unusual cover versions gives City of Angels an impressive edge to satisfy even the most demanding melodic rock fan. Release date: TBC. For More information on our artists email: aorblvdrecords@hotmail.co.uk.   xxxx WHEN JOURNEY MET ANOTHER JOURNEY: Dutch Journey tribute band Another Journey gives a gig on Saturday 26 November 2011 at The Rock Temple in Kerkrade The Netherlands: www.anotherjourney.nl / www.therocktemple.nl. And on 9 December 2011 they will play in Zoetermeer at JJ-musichouse. www.jjmusichouse.nl. At Bospop 2011 in Weert The Netherlands, 2 members of Another Journey had a meet and greet with the guys from Journey. After a few days of that gig Ross Valory signed the band's guestbook with the following message: "Hi guys, Finally found the time to visit your website, as I promised the guys at the meet & greet in Weert, Netherlands. It's always good to see and hear musicians like to play our songs, it's the best appreciation you can get. And you guys do a good job! Nice recordings! Rock on, love, Ross."   ROCKEYEZ COVER FIREFEST: Come hear interviews from the 2011 Firefest on RockEyez with Kane Roberts (Alice Cooper), Mitch Malloy, Jesse Damon, EJ Curse & Mark Hawkins, Terry Brock, & Larry Antonio: www.rockeyez.com. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following: - Journey - Live Reno 2006 (JSS on Vox, Soundboard) - WASP - Live Tokyo 86 - Van Halen - Isolated Tracks (a few isolated bass/vocal/gtr tracks for a laugh) MRX membership Details. HAPPY THANKSGIVING AND REMEMBERING TWO LEGENDS: A couple of extra mentions - it's hard to get the timing exactly right when typing from a completely different season/time zone, but Happy Thanksgiving to all my American friends and readers. Stay safe and have a great day (which I think is now about over!) And yesterday/today (Nov. 24) was the 20th Anniversary of the passing of perhaps rock n roll's greatest ever frontman - the great Freddy Mercury. He's one of those characters that you still can't believe is gone. And it is also the anniversary of the passing of drumming legend Eric Carr. Another wonderful character. R.I.P. to Eric and Freddy - I hope you two continue to jam in the afterlife.

 

 

Thursday, November 24, 2011

MARK SPIRO CONTINUES HIS WONDERFUL LIFE: AOR Heaven's first release in 2012 will be the new record by American artist Mark Spiro entitled It's A Beautiful Life. The release date was set for 27.01.2012. The Germany based label has changed it's release politics for the new year and will now release only one album per month to be able to put even bigger focus on their priority releases. Mark Spiro – It's A Beautiful Life / AOR Heaven / Style: AOR/Westcoast - Mark Spiro is an iconic American songwriter. He is an established award winning producer, recording artist, and accomplished musician, with a career that spans over two decades. Among his many accomplishments are 45 gold and platinum records, and six solo albums. His songs, and his productions have been represented on records that have sold over 100 million records, world-wide. Born in Seattle, Mark moved to Hollywood where he met Jack White, an extremely successful and acclaimed German producer who was making his impact in the American music market with his productions of Laura Branigan, Stevie Woods, Anne Murray, David Hasselhoff and more. He immediately recognized Mark's enormous talent and brought him in as his general co-producer. In a span of three years, Jack cut more than 100 of Spiro's songs on his various American and German artists. It was at this time that Mark met German writer/Producer, Harold Faltermeyer, best known for his song "Axel F" from the film, "Beverly Hills Cop" and the Theme from "Top Gun". Faltermeyer was a huge fan of Mark's writing and production skills and asked Mark to write a song for a new film, "Top Gun". Mark wrote the incredible, "Mighty Wings" (recorded by Cheap Trick), a film song classic. Developing a reputation in the film industry Mark wrote songs for such films as, True Romance ("In Dreams" recorded by John Waite); "Selena" ("Only Love" recorded by Selena) and "Music From Another Room" ("Day After Day" recorded by Julian Lennon). Mark's songs have also been featured in several Television series such as "One Tree Hill", "Marker" and "Fame". He is most recognized as one of the leading melodic rock songwriters in the United States, with songs recorded by such classic artists as Heart, Cheap Trick, Giant, Bad English, John Waite, Kansas, Reo Speedwagon, Winger, Mike Reno (Loverboy), Julian Lennon. In addition he has written for multi platinum country artist, Lila McCann, and Latin Artists, Luis Miguel and Emmanuel. Although he is best known for his melodic rock style, it is evident that Mark Spiro has the ability and talent to write for any style and genre of music. It was in Germany that Mark recorded and released his first solo album "In Stereo" in 1986. Mark was signed to Interscope Records by Jimmy Iovine, as a solo artist, shortly thereafter. Mark's second solo album, "Care Of My Soul" was released in Japan, Australia and in Scandinavia in 1994; a unique pop/rock album with Mark's special trademark of haunting melodies, creatively imaginative lyrics and outstanding vocals. 1996 saw the release of "Now Is Then, Then Is Now" on Westcoast Records which was a perfect melodic rock record that received unanimous acclaim in the European rock press for being one of the absolute finest releases that year. It ended up winning the UK magazines Frontiers award for 'best singer/songwriter album'. Mark Spiro's next two albums, "Devotion" and "The Stuff That Dreams Are Made Of" were released on the German label MTM Music. His most recent albums are "King of Crows" (2003), and "Mighty Blue Ocean" (2005). With the release of his current album It's A Beautiful Life, it is evident that Mark epitomizes the best in American songwriting, production and with his intoxicating vocals, Mark Spiro proves that he has only just begun. Soundfiles in advance: Come Back To Me / Go Another Mile / It's A Beautiful Life.   xx NEW EP FOR GUARDIAN: News from Guardian via their website: houseofguardian.com: "Hi friends! We finally reassembled in the House of Guardian (AKA Jamey Perrenot's home studio) to cut three new tracks in preparation for our 2011 Latin American tour. We have been kicking around music ideas with each other over the last year and we knew it was prime time to record a few of them. The process was fast and furious...but fun! We set up once again in Jamey's living room--picked through the pile of music ideas--and knocked out three new songs over the course of a weekend! We were especially glad that we had a chance to work again with longtime Guardian friends: Alex and Susanna Allen--who have worked on all of our Spanish recordings. We are really excited about our upcoming Latin American tour. We always have a great time and our Latin fans are amazing! We hope you like the new tunes! We have quite a few more that we hope to record soon...that's why we called our new EP "Three To Get Ready". Look for it soon on our website--on iTunes--and also on a special release for those who come see us live on this tour. Stay tuned for more details! Thanks again for your support of Guardian. We are grateful for all of our Guardian friends around the world! God Bless! Jamie • Tony - David • Karl • Jamey."   A CELEBRATION OF RANDY RHOADS: On Dec 3rd, 2011 The Rhoads family will host "A Celebration of Randy Rhoads" at the D'Argenzio's Winery (1204 W Burbank Blvd Burbank, CA 91506) the event will kick off at 3pm and will be MC'd by Mr 80's Julian Douglas. There will be a special performance by Kelle Rhoads backed by Ronny North and some cool Randy Rhoads stuff on display as well. There will be some special guests and the event will conclude with a Q & A with the Rhoads family. Admission is free and it's all ages. Come down and celebrate the life of legendary guitarist Randy Rhoads. Kelle and Ronny North will be appearing live on the air in the studio at KNAC.com radio with KNAC DJ Craig Williams on Nov 27th at 6pm (PST). They''ll be chatting live about the Celebration of Randy Rhoads event. WebLinks: www.dargenziowine.com / www.ronnynorth.com.   INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Rockeyez just posted a new interview with Amanda Sommerville: www.rockeyez.com/interviews/2011-11-trillium/int-2011-11-bmr-amanda-somerville-trilliuim.html. Snakecharmer is a new all-star band that's practically a who's who of British Rock, featuring Micky Moody (Whitesnake), Neil Murray (Whitesnake, Black Sabbath, Vow Wow, etc), Laurie Wisefield (Wishbone Ash), Harry James (Thunder, Magnum), Chris Ousey (Virginia Wolf, Heartland) and Adam Wakeman (Ozzy Osbourne)! Guitarist Micky Moody will be interviewed on Rich Davenport's Rock Show tonight (Thursday 24th November, 7-8pm UK time: www.salfordcityradio.org/shows.php?id=577 then available on the Listen Again feature at the same link for 3 weeks), and the show will feature two exclusive preview tracks from the band's forthcoming album, including a new song and a revamped Whitesnake classic, plus tracks from various members' other projects, including Thunder, Wishbone Ash and Magnum! The show also brings you all the platters that matter, with old favourites and killer new cuts from ZZ Top, Royal Hunt, Voodoo Six and Thin Lizzy! Previous interviews from the show (including Pat McManus (Mama's Boys), Sebastian Bach and Uriah Heep) are also available to listen to at www.mixcloud.com/richdav1/ Tracii Guns says Axl Rose really isn't that weird! L.A. Guns guitarist Tracii Guns was also a founding member of Guns N' Roses, working with a then-unknown Axl Rose in the group years before its big break. In a new interview with Examiner.com Guns said Rose is somewhat misperceived, observing that the singer "isn't a really weird guy." "He's more of a simple guy who got thrown into a complicated world," the guitarist told writer Sterling Whitaker. "I think that he has an unrealistic view of the world. That doesn't necessarily make him weird. Michael Jackson kinda went through the same thing of really not having a childhood, for instance. How do you cope in the adult world when you already have everything, you can have anything, and then you have to deal with an adult on an adult, educated level?" Guns said that Rose is simply used to having things the way he is used to having them. "Axl got signed when he was 22, got massive success, got his pockets loaded with money, everybody listened to everything he said," he observed. "Why should he think that things are any different now? I'm not necessarily saying that I support that and that's a wonderful thing for him. In a lot of ways it's unfortunate for him. Yet he's done it his way, he continues doing it his way, and people still keep coming to see him," Guns said. "Bottom line. That's the reality." L.A. Guns' newest album is Acoustic Gypsy Live, which features the group's acoustic re-arrangements of past hits, a new song and two cover tunes.

 

 

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

DOKKEN TO ENTER THE STUDIO FOR A BRAND NEW ALBUM FOR 2012: Frontiers Records is excited to announce the signing of Dokken for the worldwide release of the band's forthcoming studio album in the spring of 2012. The cooperation between Frontiers and Dokken started with the release of the band's CD Lightning Strikes Again in 2007. The album marked a return to Dokken's signature style with melodic hooklines and blazing guitar riffs that epitomized the band's sound on such records as Tooth & Nail, Under Lock & Key, Back for the Attack and Dysfunctional. "So far we have written 10 songs in only 8 weeks." says singer Don Dokken. "Usually we spend a year or more on our music. I can't explain why this time it came so fast, it just happened. So far the music is very uptempo and heavy, of course we know our fans like the classic Dokken sound and this is where our new music is headed. It's been a band of brothers doing what we love: 'music'". Dokken plans to finish their new recording by the end of February and go out on the road in June. In a perfect world we would like to release the new album before the summer and then play the festivals in Europe. "Then hopefully we can jump on a package tour in the US", tells Don Dokken. "We want to give everyone a great CD that will keep all music fans Rokkin' during these troubled times!" Dokken is now formed by Don Dokken on lead vocals, Jon Levin on guitar, Sean McNabb on bass and Mick Brown on drums. Formed in 1978, Dokken is one of the bands that defined the American Hard Rock trademark sound of the 80's. They have been nominated for a Grammy Award in 1989 and sold more than 10 million albums worldwide. Their next album will be their 11th original studio release. WebLinks: www.frontiers.it / www.dokken.net.   JIMI JAMISON - 'LIVE AT FIREFEST' - DVD OUT NOW: Heard by over a billion people a week as the voice of the classic theme tune 'I'm Always Here' from the global smash hit show Baywatch, and gracing the soundtracks of iconic films like The Karate Kid and Rocky IV, Jimi Jamison is one of the best and most respected singers of the genre. Incredibly, despite all this success, he had never played the UK before, something that the organisers of the annual Firefest show in Nottingham decided to put right. Jimi did not disappoint - not content playing a blistering set spanning his hit-strewn career, he also chose to steal the show with a performance that many regard as the greatest ever witnessed during Firefest's seven year history. Backed by an energetic band comprised of young rockers H.E.A.T. and guitar hero Tommy Denander, the full concert was captured on DVD and is now yours to own. The concert film was directed by Bernhard Kellerer of Transistor Pictures (www.transistor.ltd.uk), whose previous list of credits include producing DVDs for FM, Harem Scarem, TNT, Bonfire, Strangeways, White Sister and Treat amongst others. Featuring amazing renditions of 'I'm Always Here', 'Eye Of The Tiger', 'High On You', 'Burning Heart' and much more, 'Jimi Jamison - Live At Firefest' is destined to become one of THE classic live DVDs. Watch the official DVD trailer on YouTube below. Order yours from the Rocktopia Fireworks Magazine Mini Shop: bit.ly/t2re7o or Firefest website shop: www.thefirefest.com. Note: Due to publishing rights, we cannot ship this DVD to USA/Canada.   YET MORE JIMI JAMISON DUE: One Man's Trash - the German based melodic rock project formed by Jimi Jamison (Survivor) on vocals and guitarist Fred Zahl - will release it's debut album History in Europe on December 16 via Starhouse Records. The track listing for the rock n roll styled album is: 1. Real Thing 2. The Restless Kind 3. History 4. She Shine`s 5. Meadowland 6. Tears In My Eyes 7. Out Of Control 8. Long Time 9. Mama 10. Tomorrow 11. Fast And The Furious 12. Burning Love. More information and a sample of the lead single at: www.onemanstrash.de.   IT'S TIME TO 'SHINE' - RED WHITE & BLUES UNLEASH THEIR DEBUT ALBUM!: Shine is the spectacular new record by Red White & Blues, the new rock band featuring guitarist Myke Gray and vocalist Matti Alfonzetti. With successful shows with Bon Jovi, Steel Panther, The Quireboys and Whitesnake already under their belts, the band and their material are already causing a stir... "When it comes to hard rock albums they just don't make them like this anymore...Regrettably!" Dave Ling - Classic Rock "A stunning debut album, packed with superbly crafted, deluxe classic rock." James Gaden - Fireworks Magazine "One of the best debut albums I have ever heard - you want great songs? 'Shine' has them in abundance" Andy Copping - Live Nation, promoter of Download Originally working together in the acclaimed Jagged Edge, which released the stunning album 'Fuel For Your Soul', Matti Alfonzetti went on to record with acts such as Road To Ruin, Skintrade and also issue a series of solo albums. Myke Gray went on to form Skin, one the the UK's best loved rock bands, which racked up hit singles such as 'Money' and whose debut album made the UK Top 10. Now Matti and Myke are back together and Red White & Blues are sure to impress any fan of high quality rock music. Released on 1st December, featuring 14 brand new songs, Shine can be pre-ordered from the official website: www.theredwhiteandblues.com.   INTRODUCING METAL OUTFIT STUKA SQUADRON: We are pleased to report that the British Heavy Metal band Stuka Squadron has signed to Metalbox Recordings. Described as the "New Wave Of Undead British Heavy Metal" Stuka Squadron leave a bloody trail as they trawl across the country luring unsuspecting men, women and children into their Legion. Back at base, Metalbox Recordings will officially release & distribute the debut album 'Tales of the Ost' in early 2012, and to continue the thirsty campaign for survival, Stuka Squadron will be deployed across the world. For the latest Missions and Reports, visit: www.stukasquadron.com and www.metalboxrecordings.com. ANOTHER NEW SINGLE FROM LIBERTY & JUSTICE: Liberty n' Justice is pleased to announce the release of there newest single Your Memory Just Won't Do. It features David Cagle, Alex Grossi (Quiet Riot) & Cj Snare (Firehouse) and was co-written by LNJ leader Justin Murr, Cagle, & Snare. The song was all so produced, mixed & mastered by Snare. Artwork was done by Mark Allen Lanoue. This is an iTunes exclusive and will not be released on any other LNJ albums. LNJ's 28 song opus "The Cigar Chronicles" still has a 2012 release date. CJ Snare of Firehouse releases a Christmas single: "Hello everyone. Well, it's that time of year again and I'd like to announce the latest addition to my Christmas Gift collection. Please check out my new single (on iTunes) "O Come Emmanuel". I arranged, produced, engineered, mixed, and mastered this song as well as played all of the instruments and sang all of the vocals. ( My wife sang on the background vocals too. ) I'm pretty proud of this so I hope you will add it to your Holiday play list. Thanks....CJ."

 

 

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

A NEW ROCK OPERA TO EXCITE THE PROGRESSIVE ROCK / METAL AUDIENCE – BEYOND THE BRIDGE: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of Beyond The Bridge, a new Progressive Metal band from Germany, for the release of their debut album The Old Man and the Spirit on January 20, 2012 in Europe and January 24 in North America. The Old Man and the Spirit is an ambitious concept album dealing with the polarity of human sensuousness and superhuman awareness. Two main characters interpret the music on this theatrical and challenging record: "the Spirit", who is the personification of all wisdom and awareness that is unachievable to mankind but that lacks of the ability to feel, and her opponent "the Old Man": a bon vivant who has lived through all highs and lows of human sensations. These two characters are interpreted by the two band singers: a female Dilenya Mar and a male Herbie Langhans. But the operatic and cinematic setting of the album was put together by the two bands' masterminds: guitar player Peter Degenfeld and the classically trained ivory tinkler Christopher Tarnow. "From the beginning it was our intention to do an album presenting one big piece of music" tells Degenfeld. "One of the very first things that came about were the two characters together with the basic content of the story. Basically before the notes were written, we knew what each song had to sound and feel like and what the lyrics had to say. With these restrictions we started the songwriting process. In the end writing songs under these self-imposed limits turned out to be just great". While "The Old Man and The Spirit" is undoubtedly a demanding musical statement, Beyond The Bridge are determined to make their steps to bring their music on tour. "We put a lot of effort into the goal of creating the studio sound on stage and we have already rearranged some parts to make them more suitable for live performances", explains Degenfeld. Beyond The Bridge line-up is rounded up by bass player Dominik Stotzem, Fabian Maier on drums and Simon Oberender on keyboards and guitar. Simon also took care of the album production at the famed Gate Studios (owned by the famed producer Sascha Paeth, who mastered the album). While at first listen the album will easily appeal to the Progressive Rock / Metal audience, thanks to the virtuosity displayed in the playing and the compositional design, the album can be easily enjoyed by all who are looking for songs that can excite the listeners. "The music is touching. It will even touch you in a different way each time you listen to the album", concludes Peter Degenfeld. "The lyrics are inspiring and ambiguous. This encourages to dig deeper into the spiritual journey of the "Old Man". The Old Man and The Spirit includes the following songs: The Call; The Apparition; Triumph Of Irreality; The Spring Of It All; World Of Wonders; The Primal Demand; Doorway To Salvation; The Struggle; The Difference Is Human; Where The Earth And Sky Meet; All A Man Can Do. The song The Apparition can be streamed in full on the Frontiers Records webradio www.frontiers.it/webradio and on the band's official website. WebLinks: www.beyondthebridge.net / www.frontiers.it.   xx FRONTIERS PRESENTS MELODIC ROCK FANZINE #47: Frontiers Records is proud to present the new issue of Melodic Rock Fanzine. The 47th release of the label's 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. This new issue includes reviews and interviews of Trillium, Beggars & Thieves, Alfonzetti, Andromeda, Fate, Mecca, The Magnificent, Royal Hunt and Theocracy... and more! Electronic readable version of the magazine is available on the Frontiers official site and here: issuu.com/frontiers_records/docs/mrf47.   NEW FINAL FRONTIER EXPECTED IN 2012: Fresh from the critical and fan praise of his debut solo album, vocalist Rob Moratti dropped me this short note today: "I just wanted to share the exciting news with you that Final Frontier is currently working on the fifth record and will be released in mid 2012 sometime." Good news for fans of Rob and FF. JADED HEART SIGN WITH FASTBALL MUSIC: 20 years after their founding in 1991, Jaded Heart are still - and more than ever – one of Germany's most successful Rock bands. Founded by bass player Michael Müller and drummer Axel Kruse, who is also the drummer in another German Rock institution, Mad Max, the band has gained even more international standing after two line-up changes with Swedish singer Johan Fahlberg, who joined Jaded Heart in 2005 and fellow Swede guitarist Peter Oestros, who joined the band in 2006. After leaving their label Frontiers Records, where Jaded Heart's last three albums Helluva Time (2005), Sinister Mind (2007) and Perfect Insanity (2010) were released, the band has found a new home now at the Cologne based label Fastball Music. "We are very much looking forward to working with Jaded Heart, one of Germany's finest Rock bands", says label boss Andreas Bob. The band adds: "We are very proud to have signed with Fastball Music. This will kick the band into a new decade of Rock´n Roll! 2012 will be affected by a new powerful record and a lot of live power! We´re really looking forward to that now." The yet untitled 11th studio album of Jaded Heart will be released in May 2012. The German label Fastball Music, a division of BOB-Media GmbH & Co. KG, is distributed by Soulfood (and others). International artists as Tokyo Blade, Tri State Corner, Maxxwell, Blowsight and Robin Beck have already found a rocking & rolling home at the Cologne based record label. Jaded Heart previously offered a MP3 demo preview from this upcoming album. If you didn't catch it then, here it is again now; Download: Jaded Heart - Burst Into Tears.   LION MUSIC - NOVEMBER RELEASES OUT NOW: Available now is the hard hitting third strike Dangerous Diamonds from Italian metallers Mastercastle. Powered by the soaring vocals of Giorgia Gueglio, expert guitar work of Pier Gonella and the tight dynamic rhythmic pull of bassist Steve Vawamas and drummer Alesandro Bissa; Mastercastle pull on the best elements from their previous 2 releases (The Phoenix and Last Desire) to produce their best work to date. Album promo page - www.lionmusic.com/cd/dangerousdiamonds.htm. Full song sample – soundcloud.com/lionmusicrecordlabel/mastercastle-dangerous. After the critical acclaim bestowed upon Consortium Project V – Species earlier in 20111, Lion Music are proud to present the first of 4 reissues of the back catalogue from vocalist extraordinaire Ian Parry's formidable Consortium Project series, all reissues come freshly remastered for optimum sound with the added bonus of 2 never-before-heard bonus tracks on each release. Consortium Project I – Criminals & Kings is the gripping opening statement of what is being described as one of metals essential concept stories featuring a host of A1 names from the world of progressive power metal inc. Stephan Lill (Vanden Plas), Thomas Youngblood (Kamelot), Patrick Rondat (Elegy). Album promo page – www.lionmusic.com/cd/cp1.htm Full song sample – soundcloud.com/lionmusicrecordlabel/consortium-project-criminals. 2012 First Quarter Release Schedule Barring any last minute unforeseen delays we are pleased to confirm the following releases for the first quarter of 2012. 27 January 2012 House of Shakira / HoS - Back with a revamped line-up featuring melodic rock powerhouse Andreas Novak on lead vocals, HoS sees the Swedish melodic hard rock masters House Of Shakira return with their best album in their highly illustrious career. Consortium Project II / Continuum In Extremis – Second release of our continuing Consortium Project reissues. Features completely remastered sound and additional 2 never before heard bonus tracks. 27 February 2012 Lord Of Mushrooms / Perspectives - Long awaited second album from the French progressive metallers. One of the most original bands out there now with new vocalist Gustavo Monsanto (ex Adagio). Plus highly original packaging. Consortium Project III / Terra Incognita - Third release of our continuing Consortium Project reissues. Features completely remastered sound and additional 2 never before heard bonus tracks. 23 March 2012 Vendetta / World Under Fire - The British Traditional Metal merchants return with their third effort and one that will blow your brains out. Expert song craft and musicianship make this one not to miss for fans of Priest, Maiden, Heaven & Hell along with more 80's metal sounds ala Fifth Angel. Consortium Project IV / Children Of Tomorrow - Fourth and final release of our continuing Consortium Project reissues. Features completely remastered sound and additional 2 never before heard bonus track. Lion Music - www.lionmusic.com.   PETE TOWNSHEND 'INTHESTUDIO' FOR THE WHO'S IN-DEPTH QUADROPHENIA BOX SET: Dallas, TX - November 21, 2011. North American syndicated Rock radio show InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands explores the definitive Quadrophenia Director's Cut box set by The Who with the director himself, Pete Townshend, in two, hour-long, rockumentaries. After introducing the world to the first rock opera in 1969, Tommy, guitarist, singer and songwriter Pete Townshend adopted the same format in October of 1973 for Quadrophenia, the story about a Mod teen named Jimmy and his adolescent journey. Quadrophenia, initially dismissed by some American rock critics as "too British", has universal appeal, Townshend tells show host Redbeard. "Some of the most poignant and powerful letters of identification that I've ever had on the subject of Quadrophenia have come from Californians, kids that live by the beach. Eddie Vedder (of Pearl Jam) is a good example. He was a kid who lived on a surfing beach. He saw himself as Jimmy. He identified with Jimmy. It's not the circumstances of life that really matter, it's what you feel inside. So, I actually think Quadrophenia is probably more universal than Tommy, once it is understood what it's really about. The whole business of being young is only important because one is soon going to be old. The transition, the rite of passage between adolescence and adulthood, is in itself something that can never be generalized, can never be universalized. It's an absolute subjective, private, unique journey that every individual goes on." Redbeard's complete two-part, two-week interview with Pete Townshend on InTheStudio is syndicated on over 50 radio stations throughout North America. The WHO Quadrophenia/ InTheStudio shows will air the weeks of November 21st & 28th. To Stream the interview online, visit: www.inthestudio.net/this-week-in-the-studio/who-5. To hear this program on a station near you, visit: www.inthestudio.net/radiostations. DYNAZTY TO RECORD ALBUM #3 WITH RENOWNED PRODUCER PETER TÄGTGREN: News from Dynazty: "We are very proud to announce that we will enter The Abyss studio together with renowned producer Peter Tägtgren in December 2011 to record our third album. This is indeed very exciting for us! Since Tägtgren is known for producing VERY heavy stuff, we think that this collaboration can take us to a new level, and maybe even a new, more modern direction. We've been writing songs for a couple of months now, and we are confident that the new material will blow you away! The album is scheduled for release in the first half of 2012. As soon as we have a more exact date, we'll let you know! As usual, the studio madness will be documented in our (in)famous video blogs. www.dynazty.com/2011/dynazty-to-record-album-3-with-renowned-producer-peter-tagtgren/"   ILLUSTRATOR RE-ISSUES AND UNRELEASED ALBUM OUT NOW: Press Release: "Another release for Retrospect's Christian subsidiary label RetroCross Records is Illustrator's final recording. Illustrator have already built their reputation on their Christian Westcoast AOR masterpieces "Illustrator" and "Somewhere In The World" (both re-issued and available as a 2-on-1) and with Dann Huff playing all the solos on "Somewhere in the world". Effect Of The Boomerang completes the trilogy. They toughen up their sound here with edgier guitars, harder hitting drums, and the songs are possibly the best they have ever written. This release is loaded with superb musicianship, smooth vocals, huge stunning production, memorable hooks and poignant messages. Their self titled debut, gained considerable success in CCM circles and mainstream radio, but was their 2nd "Somewhere In The World" which achieved recognition between AOR fans, thanks to the catchy melodies and lush harmonies. A third album was recorded but never released until now. III ; Effect Of The Boomerang sees the band with a more contemporary approach to their music, retaining the AOR / Westcoast elements ever present on their work. "Light Up The World" and "Waiting For You" have a Mr. Mister-like style. Both feature great guitar from Dan Gaub, nice choruses and cool backing vocals. There's competent soft rock tunes as the westcoast tingled "I Guess You Know" and "First Time", or the aorish "So Goes The Story" and "Every Step". You have also rockin' tracks with nice rhythm on "Burnin' Down" (great hot solo) and "Falling". "III ; Effect Of The Boomerang" is an enjoyable album with an eighties / nineties style: smooth vocals, good stylized guitars and stunning production. There's a lot variation on this recording to keep you interested. WebLink: www.retrospectrecords.com/index2.html.   THE COME BACK OF WILL'O'WISP: After years in silence the 90s acclaimed Italian act Will'o'Wisp returns to give a totally new prosecution to his previous albums "Enchiridion" and "Unseen". Will'o'Wisp returns on the scene after a long lasting pause of about 10 years, with a partly renewed formation. The drums will be played by the eclectic and truly talented Oinos (also on the album "Crust" by Sadist) while bass guitars will welcome Jacopo Rossi from Nerve. The new album called Kosmo will be out on January 2012 for Nadir Music/Audioglobe. Will'o'Wisp will be added to the list of the great comebacks of these last years. More info: www.facebook.com/pages/WilloWisp-Italy-Official/185339261553693?notif_t=page_new_likes. NEW THIN LIZZY BOOK FROM AUTHOR MARTIN POPOFF: Dublin's Thin Lizzy have become one of the most revered cult acts of all time, studious and discerning fans of hard rock the world over reveling in the storytelling acumen of the legendary Philip Lynott and the craft and class of his band. Fighting My Way Back: Thin Lizzy 69 – 76, through numerous new interviews with most of the principals involved and a mountain of painstaking research, examines the band's suite of six records culminating in 1976's superlative and sparkling Jailbreak, home of such hits as Cowboy Song, Emerald, Jailbreak and The Boys Are Back In Town. Thin Lizzy, Shades Of A Blue Orphanage, Vagabonds Of The Western World, Nightlife, Fighting and then momentously Jailbreak… along the way, alcohol and drugs wreak havoc between band members, producers and managers, but despite lineup changes and a mostly grinding, rockscrabble existence, Ireland's favourite sons persevere to experience, finally, the smash hit record they'd deserved for so long. Immerse yourself in Popoff's celebrated record-by-record methodology and emerge a rejuvenated Lizzy fan, newly appreciative of the deep album tracks hiding within this singular band's often forgotten early years… The book's 280 pages include 328 rare, archival black & white photos and memorabilia shots to accompany my usual in-depth track-by-track play-by-play type o' crazy biog. Fresh new interviews for this book included (and most a few times), Eric Bell, Scott Gorham, Brian Downey, Gary Moore and Brian Robertson along with a couple of managers in Terry O'Neill and Ted Carroll, producers Nick Tauber and Ron Nevison, Nigel Grange from Vertigo, Frank Murray who kept it all together on the road, cover artist Jim Fitzpatrick, and a range of others. As well, historical press interviews helped bring out the real Phil in all his dastardly guises. Says Martin: "OK, the usual… books will be signed by me to you, so make clear if it's a Christmas present – getting a lot of that this time of year. Price including shipping: US orders: $34.00 US funds Int'l orders (all books go air): $45.00 Cdn. funds Canadian orders: $38.00 Cdn. funds / PayPal happily accepted! Ask me if you'd like a PayPal invoice (please indicate what country you are in), or just do yer usual and direct funds to martinp@inforamp.net. Or mail payment (personal check in US funds, cash, or International money order), to: Martin Popoff P.O. Box 65208, 358 Danforth Ave. Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4K 2Z2 Email me at martinp@inforamp.net with any further questions, and see www.martinpopoff.com for descriptions, cover art and ordering info for my other available 30 or so books. Nice savings on shipping can be had if you take a few things, and as you know, I'm always good for swingin' a deal for two books or more. Just ask.   ALREADY GONE PLAN TO CORNER 2012: After going from strength to strength this year, UK Rock band Already Gone are well under way with plans to bigger and better themselves next year. The four piece Rock band from the Midlands last week went on a brand new photo shoot to start promo for the 2012 plans and second album. Meetings are also underway to arrange the shoot of their second music video for, "Stop, Drop, Rock 'N' Roll" which will be shot mid January next year! After the success of their debut album, "One Good Reason" released earlier this year, Already Gone have began preparations to the follow up album, which will be recorded sometime late next year. 2012 sees the guys hit stages all over the UK as part of the One Good Reason tour. Dates still being added, Already Gone can now reveal that on February 5 they shall be supporting Scottish pirate metal band, Alestorm in their home town of Stoke-on-Trent. You an grab your copy of Already Gone's debut album "One Good Reason" head to, www.alreadygone.co.uk/STORE.html where you can also find the latest news, tour dates, merch, photos and videos of AG. Or, you can alternatively download "One Good Reason" at: itunes.apple.com/us/album/one-good-reason/id463037062.

 

 

Monday, November 21, 2011

GOTTHARD - "AT LAST WE CONTINUE": The biggest news of the week is the announcement of a new vocalist for Gotthard. After months of rumours, talk and debate, the "new guy" is revealed - and he's an Aussie (of sorts!). Best to leave it to the band to comment. Their statement reads: "New singer confirmed. He is Swiss! Dear Gotthard Fans - it gives us great pleasure to announce that we have found a new singer. The successor to Steve Lee, who was killed in a tragic accident last year, is Nic Maeder and is Swiss-born. Nic was born in 1971 in Lausanne, lived in Melbourne, Australia and grew up between Switzerland and "Down Under". "Nic not only has a great voice and is a fantastic musician, but we also have a great person in our midst", says Leo. "We can rock again at last". During the months after the decision to carry on was taken, we received a huge amount of applications from all over the world; it was really overwhelming! At this point we would really like to thank everyone, especially the candidates, to whom we were not able to send a personal message. Thank you for your understanding and we wish all of you lots of luck and success in the future! "The search took a long time but it was clear to all of us when we met Nic that he was the right guy. With him we can enjoy the music again and celebrate new success," states Hena. "I'm really happy that we are continuing". The final decision for Nic Maeder was unanimous. "We noticed straight away that the chemistry, both musically and personally, was right. For us, he is the new member of the family", says Freddy. Nic Maeder, who besides his singing position also plays guitar and piano, is a very talented and creative person. His songwriting ability also means he fits perfectly into the Gotthard family. He is the missing piece in the puzzle. "Music has been my companion all my life and always was an important part of it. It is a great feeling to be able to share in the birth of a song and to see how it keeps growing. I can experience that with Gotthard and it makes me happy. I am making music with friends," says Nic Maeder. Of course you can write a lot about a new singer, but in the end there is nothing better than seeing and hearing him sing. We therefore decided to produce a song plus video as a thank you to our fans, which can be downloaded free of charge. It is dedicated to all our Fans who didn't lose their faith and trust in Gotthard. You have supported us with all your strength during the past months. Thank you so much! Marc "With Nic, we have taken the right decision for Gotthard. A lot of courage is needed to step into the footsteps of such a great singer. For that, Nic has earned our respect. Let's never forget this and make Nic welcome in the family. We are in the studio at the moment and are working with renewed energy and enthusiasm on songs for a new album, which will be released in the spring of 2012...keep on rocking!!!" "Remember it's me" can be downloaded free at www.gotthard.com. Go download the song - it's a terrific mid-tempo melodic rock song and an indication that things in the Gotthard camp are looking up again after the tragic death of Steve Lee. Check out the video for the song below. Good luck guys! Check out Nic's old band Maeder here: www.myspace.com/maedermusic   Fair Warning vocalist Tommy Heart was one name in the running for Gotthard. He also posted an update this weekend: "My dear friends, Thank you very much for all your best wishes and all the nice comments, but I am really sorry having to tell you that I am not the new singer of "Gotthard". It is only a false rumor which somebody invented to catch your attention. Further I would like to let you know that I am right now still working on my solo album which will be finished and released in 2012. I hope you will still come back to check my Facebook page from time to time to get some more information about my future plans and releases. Thank you so much for your continuous support and interest. I wish you all the very best, Kind Regards, Tommy Heart." MELODIC BRIEFS: Royal Hunt: Part 4 of the Studio Report has been uploaded: www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKEvR4-mSgA. Cage has released a second track from their Supremacy Of Steel album via free iPhone and Android apps found here. Android Market: market.android.com/details?id=com.appmakr.app345614 / iTunes Store: itunes.apple.com/us/app/cagemetal/id479997446. The song The Monitor can be found streaming in the music player. The Monitor tells the historical depiction of the development and battles found by the Ironclads in the American Civil War. The battle between the CSS Virginia and USS Monitor marked the genesis of naval warfare from wooden vessels to those made of steel. Supremacy Of Steel comes out worldwide November 25. www.cageheavymetal.com HEXFIRE DEBUT "THE FIRE OF REDEMPTION" RELEASED WORLDWIDE: Hexfire's debut album The Fire of Redemption has been released in the USA, Europe, Asia & the rest of the world via Nightmare Records USA. The list of some stores which sell the album is available on Hexfire official Facebook www.facebook.com/hexfireofficial or www.myspace.com/hexfireofficial. The album can be also downloaded on iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody and other digital music stores. "The Fire of Redemption" features guest appearances by Niclas Etelavuori (Amorphis), Novy (ex-Behemoth & Vader), Alex Holzwarth (Rhapsody of Fire, Avantasia), Jonno Lodge (ex- Paul Di'Anno, Biomechanical, Darke Horse), Diego 'Grom' Meraviglia (Testing Tomorrow, ex-Ancient & Doomsword), Kasper Gram (Manticora), Martin Arendal (Manticora, Wuthering Heights), Kristian Larsen (Manticora), and Kel'Thuz (Spiritual Demise, Sorcerer).   HOLIDAY CHEER WITH A ROCK AND ROLL FLAVOR: Rock4Xmas Charity Concert Celebrates 15th year with Four-Date Tour This December, the Rock4Xmas Foundation celebrates its 15th year of helping families in need with its annual slate of holiday concerts, with a four-date tour that will reach rock and roll and metal fans in four different states. "Each year, Rock4Xmas just gets bigger and better," said founder Wayne Morrison of Morrison Music and Production. "Nobody cares more about needy families during the holiday season than all my rock and roll friends." Performers slated to appear include Corey Glover, lead singer of the band Living Colour; Joey Molland of the legendary Badfinger; Craig Goldy, guitarist for Dio; Stet Howland, drummer for WASP; Kelly Keeling, formerly of Trans-Siberian Orchestra; and Terry Ilous of the band XYZ. More performers are expected to be announced as the shows draw closer. "We're so honored to have so many great friends back for another year with us," Morrison said, noting that Glover's 1989 hit "Cult of Personality" is enjoying a resurgence with the younger generation, now that it is being used as the entrance music for WWE star CM Punk. "That's going to blow the roof off each night." The tour kicks off on Thursday, December 1 at Café Funchal in New Bedford, Massachusetts, before descending upon the Sun Valley Resort in Stafford Springs, Connecticut. The Connecticut show is a collaboration between Rock4Xmas and Music Studio 307 owner Elisa Giannelli. Tickets for that show are only $10 in advance, $15 at the door, and proceeds will benefit FoodShare, Toys for Tots and Operation Fuel. "I'm so happy to be working with Elisa to provide for needy families in Connecticut," Morrison said. "Her passion for music and for helping people are unmatched." On Saturday, December 3 the show moves to Long Island to the Nutty Irishman in Farmingdale, New York. The tour wraps up Sunday, December 4 at the Newport Blues Café in Newport, Rhode Island. Tickets for those shows will be priced at $15 in advance, $20 at the door and can be purchased by visiting www.Rock4Xmas.com. At all four shows, the Rock4Xmas Foundation will accept donations of canned goods and toys to help needy families. "No donation is too big or too small," Morrison said. "We need stocking stuffers just as much as we need big toys." Updates regarding the shows will be posted frequently on the foundation's web site, www.rock4xmas.com  The site already features numerous video and audio clips from past events. About The Rock 4 Xmas Foundation: Started in 1996, the Rock 4 Xmas Foundation brings food, gifts and the holiday spirit to less fortunate families through donations and benefit events. In addition to collecting donations, the foundation also is directly involved in the distribution. It has been recognized by the federal government with a 509(a)2 tax-exempt status. The web site for the foundation is www.rock4xmas.com. About Wayne Morrison: Wayne Morrison is the owner of Morrison Music and Production, a company that works with many nationally-recognized acts. A survivor of the Station nightclub fire, Morrison also helped organize the original Night of Healing benefit concert.

 

 

Friday, November 18, 2011

Captured at an undisclosed venue in Los Angeles, are (L-R) Alex Van Halen; Wolfgang Van Halen; Eddie Van Halen; Jimmy Iovine, Chairman, Interscope Geffen A&M Records; Irving Azoff, Executive Chairman of Live Nation Entertainment and Chairman and CEO of the Front Line Management Group; Steve Berman, Vice Chairman, Interscope Geffen A&M Records; David Lee Roth; and Jim Urie, President and CEO, Universal Music Group Distribution. So there you have it folks...the first new Van Halen picture since 2008....taken Monday at The Roxy club in LA, whilst shooting a video for the first single from their upcoming new studio album due early next year. I had mentioned previously that a source told me that the band also filmed out door footage about 3 weeks ago. Hopefully we'll be seeing that clip sooner rather than later. In related news...a little more information from my source connected to Columbia Records. The told me that manager Irving Azzoff handles the Van Halen's, while David Lee Roth continues to retain his own independent management. Azoff and Columbia had agreed on terms, but DLR met with Columbia and went back with his manager and said he wanted "something in LA, something hip, somehting that was "cool" do a video", whch apparently he felt wasn't being presented by Columbia. DLR won, Azzoff went with the Van Halen's who agreed with DLR. The only text included with today's picture release was "Want to know why? Stay tuned..." So I guess that official announcement is finally in the pipeline. Finally, I have been searching for an update on the rumored Grammy Announcement Concert appearance by the band November 30 - as of this week - that appearance is ON. MR. BIG GET RAW LIKE SUSHI AGAIN: I mentioned this week that Mr. Big were working on mixing a new live album. Well, it isn't a recording from the US leg of their world tour as I thought, but rather a big commemorative release celebrating the band's 100th show in Japan. The release info for this exclusive Japanese only package has just been released. Mr. Big - Raw Like Sushi 100 [2DVD+2CD] [Limited Release] 11905 yen US$153/78.03 Release Date: 2012/01/25. Description: Deluxe box set of Mr. Big consists of 2DVDs and 2CDs in a B4-size hard cover book! The DVDs features the concert of "Live From The Living Room" held at Toho Studio, Tokyo, Japan, in January 2011 and documentary footage of their 2011 Japan tour (contains over 60 min., subject to change). The CDs contain live tracks of their 100th concert in Japan held at Osaka-jo Hall on April 7, 2011 mixed by Pat Regan and features K2HD mastering + the high-fidelity HQCD format (compatible with standard CD players). The hard cover book contains 96-pages (all color) including photos of their 2011 Japan tour taken by William Hames, the Japan tour data, a tour pass replica, and more. Size: 24.9 x 29.9cm. External Bonus: Poster. To pre-order via MR recommended supplier: www.cdjapan.co.jp. WORLDWIDE LIVE WEBCAST…ONE WEEK TO GO: Tyketto press release: "The webcast signups are off the charts…The cutoff for online ticket purchases is Friday, November 25 at 12:00pm. We suggest you buy your tickets now to make sure you receive your access code. It's easy to buy tickets via paypal. Details for this pioneering event can be found on our website www.Tyketto.de. Email us your Tyketto questions, which will be answered to a worldwide audience….live!!! Also on our site, check the Tyketto "NEWS" section for info on our Home For The Holidays show at The Whiskey Bar (Hoboken, NJ) on Thanksgiving Eve (Wednesday, November 23…8pm show time) and all of our upcoming UK tour dates. Please repost, share, tweet, twitter, jitter, shake, rattle and roll this news to everyone you know!!!! That's an order…..Thank You." ~ Tyketto. KEITH OLSEN AWARDED FOR PRODUCTION WORK: Producer Keith Olsen has been awarded the 2011 Hollywood Fame Awards Lifetime Achievement Award - Music Producer. Congratulations Keith! The video presentation is below. "With over 125 million album sales under his belt, Keith Olsen is one of the last great producers from the golden age of rock n' roll. Having produced some of the biggest hits in the history of the music business, Keith's stature continues to grow with each passing year. His successful artist roster is incomparable and includes names like Ozzy Osbourne, John Waite, Rick Springfield, Pat Benatar, Whitesnake, Scorpions and many others."   WHEN GOOD AND EVIL COLLIDE – AL ATKINS AND CHRISTIAN GUITARIST PAUL MAY: 11/17/2011 - London, UK - The rock world is buzzing with proof that good and evil can in fact work together in the form of former Judas Priest vocal legend and Holy Rage heavy metal frontman Al Atkins and Christian guitarist and music artist Paul May. Together these extreme opposites combine creating a powerful new CD called 'Serpent's Kiss', now available on Gonzo Multimedia. The 10-track album is the product of two of the Midlands finest architects of rock and metal coming together to create something that is unique and totally exhilarating! There are enough doses of melody and metal madness to entice all fans of the genre, and while it is solid, honest working class heavy metal, it also has its roots in contemporary metal with some fine axe-work and killer choruses. The cover art for 'Serpent's Kiss' is also unique as it was created by world famous fantasy artist Rodney Matthews. Al Atkins: More noted for forming UK's Judas Priest and fronting them for four years and laying down the foundations which would see them eventually selling 40 million albums worldwide. He also wrote songs for them which went gold like 'Dreamer Deceiver', 'Never Satisfied', 'Winter', 'Caviar and Meths' and Priest's all time classic 'Victim of Changes'. Al's unique powerful vocal style sites influences by noted rock singers Roger Daltrey, Paul Rodgers and longtime friend Robert Plant. Al has done countless radio and TV interviews worldwide and recently was filmed for BBC TV 'British Heritage' and 'Banger Films' Canada for the metal evolution series on VH1. He has even written a book on his musical life about growing up in Birmingham, UK alongside Robert Plant and Black Sabbath called 'Dawn of the Metal Gods'. Al has released 6 solo albums to date, toured the US twice, and has worked with Brian Tatler (Diamond Head), Dave Holland (Judas Priest), Dennis Stratton (Iron Maiden) and Bernie Torme (Ozzy/Gillan). Al recently released a new self titled album with his offshoot band Holy Rage and has now teamed up with brilliant Christian writer/guitarist Paul May and recorded an album called 'Serpent's Kiss', which Al says are the best recordings to date! Paul May: Some people learn to play guitar, Paul was born (again) to play guitar! Paul has become respected for his passionate, soulful guitar work and noted for his explosive and exciting solos. As a world class professional guitarist and songwriter, Paul has played and recorded sessions across the globe, touring and playing throughout the UK, Europe, USA and the Eastern block. Paul appears on around 50 albums to date, featured in both the secular and Christian arenas. Paul is also a record producer and has covered the entire spectrum of musical tastes in production. Paul has played, recorded with and produced alongside the bands and members of: Al Atkins (Judas Priest), Dave Holland (Judas Priest), Roy Wood (Move, ELO, Wizard), Jon Brooks (The Charlatans), Smokin Roadie/Tempest, MC5, V-Rats, Janus, A.N.D, Dave Rowley Band, Larry Norman and many others. Along with working with Al Atkins, Paul currently plays guitar with A.N.D and Temple Dogs. "Working with Paul May on the 'Serpent's Kiss' album was a fantastic journey," says Al. "From the opening song 'The Shallowing' to the last song 'Theatre of Fools', it was an honor to have been asked by the brilliant guitarist Paul May to put this project together... Without a doubt this is one of the best albums I have appeared on since my early days with Judas Priest and that says something having written and recorded several of my own works." "This album was meant to be," explains Paul. "When Al agreed to do the vocals it inspired me to write specific tracks tailored for his voice. Not only did Al deliver in abundance, he did so with world class! It's what I'd call a 'Classic Hard Rock/Metal' album; that covers a wealth of subject matters and life experiences. It's all rock 'n' roll! And a real triumph to me in so many ways. I just feel blessed! To again, be involved with such a great vocalist and friend and end up with such a cracking album is a gift indeed - rock on!" Atkins / May Project 'Fight' video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MP2px44Q-Wg. For more information: www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk. To purchase Atkins / May Project 'Serpent's Kiss': www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk/product_details/15396 / www.amazon.co.uk/Serpents-Kiss-Atkins-May/dp/B005OQ7VU2.   MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following: - Black Sabbath - Dehumanizer Demos (3CDs!) - Dokken - Exciter 78 Demo (5 Trackds) - Shania Twain - Live BBC Radio 2 - 2003 MRX Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, November 17, 2011

JIMI JAMISON REJOINS SURVIVOR - WORLDWIDE TOUR, NEW SONGS SET FOR RELEASE IN 2012: Jimi Jamison has re-joined Survivor, after leaving the band in 2006 to focus on his solo career. The band's first album with Jamison, Vital Signs, is still praised by fans and critics alike as one of the best AOR albums of all time. Survivor – Jimi Jamison (vocals), Frankie Sullivan (guitar), Marc Droubay (drums), Billy Ozzello (bass) and Walter Tolentino (keyboards/guitar) – will begin working on a new album, expected for release in 2012. "It feels great to be back with Frankie and the band, singing the songs that the fans love." says Jamison. Frankie Sullivan adds, "I'm excited to have Jimi back up front singing the hits, and giving the fans what they want." Survivor experienced their big breakthrough in 1982 with Eye Of The Tiger, which soon turned into one of the biggest hits of the band's career, holding the #1 spot for seven weeks on the Billboard charts. Eye of the Tiger earned Survivor the Grammy® Award for Best Rock Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocal and the song was voted "Best New Song" by the People's Choice Awards and received an Academy® Award nomination. The song remains a cultural phenomenon and is one of the most downloaded rock songs of all time. For more information on Survivor, visit www.survivormusic.com. Frankie Sullivan co-founded Survivor with Jim Peterik, who made this comment via his Official Facebook Page: "Just like all of you I've heard that Jimi Jamison is back with Survivor. I wish them nothing but the best." DARIO MOLLO & TONY MARTIN RESURRECT THE CAGE WITH THE RELEASE OF THIRD ALBUM: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of the long awaited Mollo Martin new album entitled The Third Cage on January 20, 2012 in Europe and January 24 in North America. Dario Mollo and Tony Martin first got together when the Italian guitar player/produced and composer needed the right singer after the put together a new set of songs in the late 90's. The former Black Sabbath singer came about on a suggestion from producer Kit Woolven (UFO, Thin Lizzy) with whom Dario Mollo had been working during his Crossbones years. Tony Martin wrote lyrics and melodies for the amazing tracks that Dario had already assembled, and thus The Cage was born. The first album, released independently in 1999, gained a great success among the Hard Rock fans and the critics and Dario started finally to make himself a reputation over the international markets. This debut was later followed by an equally acclaimed second album in 2002. Mollo has been very busy since then, releasing one more album with the Voodoo Hill project with Glenn Hughes. He then toured Europe with Graham Bonnet and Don Airey. After Don became a permanent Deep Purple member, Dario and Graham Bonnet put up Elektric Zoo, touring Europe again, performing songs from Rainbow, Alcatrazz, Voodoo Hill and The Cage. In 2008 Dario released an album with the more alt-rock Italian band Noize Machine, before getting again to work on a new set of Hard Rocking songs for a new record with Tony Martin. "As usual we are 50/50 partners", explains Mollo. "I write all the music and Tony then contributes with the melodies and lyrics. We also try together different structures of the tracks and we rearrange them to better fit the vocal parts. Then I go ahead and take care of the entire production of the album, tracking, mixing and mastering". The songwriting, the sound and the video production of this new project are absolutely stunning and show the great skills that Mollo has developed in the past few years. All Hard Rock lovers should simply not miss this record which bravely melts several influences in a cutting edge release. "There are much better songs, performances and production on this album, plus we will finally bring this project live out there: we have a lot of great songs to perform to our loyal fans, we look forward to meet them" concludes Dario Mollo. The Third Cage will include the following tracks: Wicked World; Cirque Du Freak; Oh My Soul; One Of The Few; Still In Love With You; Can't Stay Here; Wardance; Don't Know What It Is About You; Blind Fury; Violet Moon; Wicked World (Videoclip). The first single / video "Wicked World" can be streamed in full on the Frontiers Records webradio www.frontiers.it/webradio. Enjoy the videoclip following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=4y83C_DX81E. WebLinks: www.dariomollo.com / www.frontiers.it. The Cage: Dario Mollo - Guitars, Bass, Keyboards; Tony Martin – Vocals with: Roberto Gualdi – Drums; Fulvio Gaslini – Bass; Dario Patti / Brian War – Keyboards.   xx WORK OF ART TO HIT SPAIN: Krea Film Producciones is glad to announce that the world's new AOR sensation, Work of Art, will play live in Madrid. The band, originally founded by Herman Furin and Robert Sall in 1992, did not really kick-start until they were joined by singer Lars Sarfsund 15 years later. Work of Art has been considered by the majority of the specialized press as the best melodic hard rock band that has appeared in the scene in the last years, and their first album, "Artwork" (2008), has been rated as album of the year all over the world. This year, Work of Art has released their second master piece, "In Progress", following the path of the previous one with outstanding reviews all over the place. Work of Art's concert in Madrid is the first one that the band is going to do outside their country (Sweden), thing that has created a huge expectation. The band members are very excited about this very unique and once in a blue moon show that melodic hard rock fans cannot miss. The night will be opened by another Sweden band, Dynazty, who will be introducing their second album "Knock You Down". A very young hard rock band with a sleazy touch that is aiming very high and is having a lot of success everywhere they play. Madrid will not be an exception. January 21st, 2012 @ Ritmo y Compas, Madrid (Spain). Tickets: 25 euros + fees at Sun Records, Tipo Rosa Negra and www.entradas.com available from November 18th. 28 euros at the venue the night of the show. Due to likely high demand we recommend to purchase the tickets well in advance. More information via e-mail: produccion@kreaweb.es. LOVE.MIGHT.KILL: "DOWN TO NOWHERE" VIDEO-CLIP RELEASED: German-/Italian melodic-metallers Love.Might.Kill released their second video-clip "Down To Nowhere". The track is taken from their highly acclaimed debut-album "Brace For Impact" which was released in Europe through Massacre Records this year. Love.Might.Kill's first single "Pretty little mess" featured the very melodic side of the band while "Down to nowhere" is a heavy-uptempo-rocker. Here´s the link: www.youtube.com/qpG3pEfWvP0. Brace For Impact was released in Japan through Hydrant Music/EMI on November, 16th. The Japanese-edition of the album features a bonus-track called Satans Den. "Brace For Impact" Japanese-Edition-Tracklist: 01. Tomorrow Never Comes 02. Calm Before The Storm 03. Pretty Little Mess 04. Caught In A Dream 05. Satans Den (Bonus-Track/Japan Only) 06. Through The Dawn 07. Brace For Impact 08. We Are The Weak 09. Down To Nowhere 10. Pray To Your God 11. Reach Out 12. The Answer 13. Will Love Remain. Love.Might.Kill also welcomes Sascha Onnen (ex-Mob Rules) on keyboards as a permanent member. Commented drummer and producer Michael Ehré: "We´re absolutely happy to have Sascha on board! His incredible skills will lift Love.Might.Kill to another level!" For further information please go to: www.lovemightkill.com. ACCEPT ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM TITLE: It's always quiet just before the storm!!!! Accept's fifteen year break from the music business only served as a distant warning to the 2010 thunderous return of Accept to the metal forefront. Sweat soaked, table-sized club shows and triumphant appearances at the biggest rock festivals around the world created an excitement long not seen in the metal community. It was only natural that Accept's comeback album Blood Of The Nations entered the charts at #4, the band's highest entry in their legendary career! In addition, Blood Of The Nations charted high in countless other countries and cemented itself at #1 in many Reader Polls for a continuous 14 months! Accolades like "Album of the Year", "Metal Anthem of the Year" and many more kept pouring in. The fans, in admiration of their heroes, flocked in the thousands to their notorious live shows, and Nuclear Blast, their record company, was salivating with satisfaction! Inspired by their fans' awe-inspiring reaction to their explosive live shows as well as the grandiose success of the comeback album, the band is now excited to jump right back into the studio and record another collection of heavy metal classics. To be called Stalingrad, the new Accept album is scheduled to be released via Nuclear Blast Records in the spring of 2012. It will once again be produced by English ueber-producer Andy Sneap who has long become a part of the Accept family. As the saying goes… no rest for the wicked! Following the release of Stalingrad, Accept will continue their unstoppable, teutonic terror in 2012 and beyond, invading stages from North to South, from East to West, leaving all nonbelievers in their metallic dust! FREEDOM CALL LAND OF THE CRIMSON DAWN IS COMING FEBRUARY 2012 : German melodic metal band Freedom Call will release their new studio album Land Of The Crimson Dawn on February 24th in Germany, February 27th in Europe and February 28th in the USA/Canada. Singer and Guitarist Chris Bay offers news to the fans: "We started in the beginning of September to record the first tracks for the new album. The band was working the past months intensely creative and did a fantastic job! Now we're happy and satisfied with the result and will finish the recordings in the next days!! The new studio album will include 14 full-valued songs and some very special bonus tracks. The title of the new Freedom Call studio album will be: "Land Of The Crimson Dawn"! A new world, a new dimension full of attraction, fascination and illusions. Let us travel together, far beyond in any power of imagination, through the Valley of the Crimson Dawn, an illuminating part of the glorious Land of Light. Immerse into the world of craft to fight, to enjoy the excitement to survive or surrender. Always on the edge to reality..." Freedom Call live 2011 18.11. GB-London – Underworld 19.11. GB-Manchester – Roadhouse 20.11. GB-Wakefield – Snooty Fox 21.11. GB-Newcastle - Trillians 22.11. GB-Grimsby – Yardbirds 23.11. GB-Birmingham - Roadhouse 26.11. CH-Zurich - Dynamo WebLinks: www.freedom-call.net / www.spv.de. SWISS RECORD FAIR IN NOVEMBER: A Swiss only hard rock/AOR/Metal record and CD fair "Metalbörse 2011" is coming up end of November. The details are as follows as provided from the organizers: "It is an event for lovers and fans of metal and 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 2011 / Location: Stadtsaal Zofingen, Switzerland / Date: Saturday 26 Nov 2011 / Opening time: 9 am to 4 pm. GOLEN RESSURRECTION NEW VIDEO: New Video from Swedish melodic metal band Golden Resurrection - Identity In Christ - First video from Golden Resurrection's second album Man With A Mission: www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8rEbNJqqMA. In the 80's Golden Resurrection vocalist Christian Liljegren discovered the music from Japan. "Yngwie Malmsteen, Europe and others were the musical heroes in my teens. They are still big influences in my music. Their breakthrough in Japan was huge and I dreamed about my own success in Japan." In 2008 Golden Resurrection was formed, together with Tommy ReinXeed (Reinxeed). Tommy is an incredible talented guitarist and vocalist. Late 2010 their release of the debut album "Glory To My King" entered the metal charts in Japan. October 26, 2011 Golden Resurrection are back with their 2nd studio album Man With A Mission and it is again praised by Japanese media and the band started the Man With A Mission Tour in Sweden followed by dates in Norway & Germany and more dates and countries will follow during 2011/2012. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/goldenresurrection / www.facebook.com/goldenresurrection. CAVO ANNOUNCES SPECIAL HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES & DIGITAL EP: St. Louis rockers Cavo have announced a series of special holiday shows set to take place in December. The shows are all in conjunction with local rock stations in the Midwest. Hot off the heels of a recent radio promo tour, the band is eager to get out and play some new tunes from their upcoming album Thick as Thieves. The album's lead single and title track continues to gain momentum at active rock radio, pushing in to the Top 30 this week. In addition to climbing the charts, "Thick As Thieves" has been steadily winning head-to-head battles on radio station's websites, beating out bands such as The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Foo Fighters. "We've been itching to get out and play the new stuff for the fans," commented Cavo singer Casey Walker. "These select few shows close to home are a great way for us to get in game shape in anticipation of a nationwide tour in early 2012!" Tour dates are as follows: 12/6 The Pageant, St. Louis, MO (KPNT Ho Ho Show) 12/7 Voodoo Lounge@ Harrah's, Kansas City, MO (KQRC Harley Party) 12/9 Val Air Ballroom, Des Moines, IA (KAZR Not So Silent Night) 12/10 Twisted Spoke Saloon, Tremont, IL (WIXO Nutcracker Hangover) Cavo has also launched their official music webstore at www.myplaydirect.com/cavo. Fans can preorder the upcoming full-length album, Thick as Thieves (Feb, 2012), and receive an instant download of the limited edition EP, Sounds From the Hollow, which features select tracks from the upcoming album as well as two bonus tracks produced by James Michael, unavailable elsewhere. Sounds From the Hollow track listing: Thick As Thieves, Live Without It (Bonus), Hold Your Ground, Identity (Bonus), Thick As Thieves (Acoustic). The new Cavo EPK saw its premiere on Monday (11/14) on AlternativeAddiction.com: bit.ly/cavoepkaa. The storyline traces Cavo's evolution over the past few years, and also features an Alternative Addiction exclusive interview with singer Casey Walker. MELODIC BRIEFS: Help a MR.com reader - drumming for his life on the Queen Extravaganza: "I've been reading this site for many years now and I'm hoping that I could get help from other melodic rock fans on this site. I've been lucky enough to be selected as one of the semi finalists in the drum category for the Queen Extravaganza. Now it's up to the public and the top 3 drummers of the public vote get to go to LA to audition in front of Roger Taylor to be a part of the band. Could you please go to www.queenextravaganza.com/auditions and vote for me, Brian Butwin, in the drum category if you think my audition is good enough to get through to the finals? Thanks so much!!!" Good luck Brian! Here is a clip studio report / interview for the 2nd Faithsedge record: www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=oDk4-P2D2CI. The new Grand Design album Idolizer is now available on ITunes: itunes.apple.com/gb/album/idolizer/id478710828. Australian guitar hero Joe Matera will be interviewed on Rich Davenport's Rock Show tonight (Thursday 17th November, 7-8pm UK time, www.salfordcityradio.org/shows.php?id=577 then available on the Listen Again feature at the same link for 3 weeks), and the show will feature two tracks from Joe's forthcoming EP "Slave To The Fingers" (released on November 28th on W.A.R. Productions), and Joe will be choosing tracks from some of his favourite bands, including Boston and Thin Lizzy. The show also brings you all the platters that matter, with old favourites and killer new cuts from Black Sabbath, Fiona, Oz, Samson, The Allman Brothers, Grand Illusion and more! The band Harlow recorded a song a couple years ago called Pullin' the Strings - It's related to whats going on in the world today. Please check out the video when you get a chance, and if you are on the same page please click the "LIKE" button: www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0Y_XKBGr9s. The From Out Of Nowhere Podcast recently sat down with Michael Hannon and discussed the upcoming Salty Dog reunion gig in LA. fromoutofnowheremedia.tumblr.com/post/12028012884/episode-28-foon-smu-its-time-for-our-bi-weekly From Out Of Nowhere also recently talked with Jason & the Scorchers guitarist Warner E. Hodges about the Scorchers and his new project, The Bluefields, with Dan Baird, Joe Blanton (Royal Court of China) and Steve Gorman (Black Crowes). fromoutofnowheremedia.tumblr.com/post/12509034573/episode-29-warner-e-hodges-this-week-we-sit. POWER QUEST REVEAL NEW FRONTMAN: Power Quest are pleased to finally reveal the identity of their new frontman, so please welcome Colin Callanan to the Power Quest family! Colin, 31, is from Galway, Ireland and will make his live debut with the band in Wakefield on November 27th. The show will be streamed "live" on the web! Previously Colin has been heard fronting his own projects "Dark Crystal" and "Karuna". You can check out Karuna here www.myspace.com/karunaweb. Steve Williams commented, "We are thrilled to welcome Colin into the band. He impressed each and every one of us at his audition a couple of months back, and he really understands what Power Quest is all about. His voice and personality are exactly what we have been looking for. Welcome aboard brother!" Colin added, "I'm really happy to be joining PQ! I've been following the band since their very first demo release and have already been singing PQ songs for many years to help me keep my vocal skills up to scratch. I've always thought it would be great to get the opportunity to sing with an internationally acclaimed outfit such as Power Quest, and was really glad when I got the invite from Steve to come over and jam with the band to see how the chemistry is. Well it was really cool hanging out with the PQ family over those days, and I tried to give them a good blast of my voice in the rehearsal room so they could see if my technique and style was what the band is after. We both agree it's a good match, and I'm really enthusiastic about being the new voice of PQ and offering as much as I can to the band on the old songs, as well as working with the guys to write new material together. I look forward to many gigs and tours, and plenty of craic as we say in Ireland!" Colin's debut show will be broadcast live. Check in on the 27th here: snootyfoxlive.com/live-stream/ Power Quest + Evil Scarecrow + Dreamcatcher November 2011 27th Wakefield ­ Snooty Fox Tickets: www.wegottickets.com/event/135472 Further information on: www.myspace.com/powerquest or www.power-quest.co.uk.

 

 

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

NEW FERGIE FREDERIKSEN VIDEO PREMIERE: The premiere of the new Fergie Frederiksen video clip Follow Your Heart can be viewed on YouTube as linked below. The clip comes from Fergie's great new solo album Happiness Is The Road. This particular tune was penned by Jim Peterik.   KEEFEST FOR EUROPE!: June 29 and 30 the brand new festival KeeFest will take place at Åby Travbana (horse racing track) right outside Gothenburg city, Sweden. With an audience capacity of three (!!!!) soccer courts, KeeFest will make a lot of other European festivals look tiny. World famous superstar acts to be announced shortly, and as if there ever was any question about it; of course Kee Marcello Band will perform. Kee Marcello Band will do their premiere festival concert on KeeFest. Tickets will soon be available. Check: www.keemarcello.com for updates. New video: Redux: Europe: www.youtube.com/keemarcellotv. STYX ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE "DIANA WARNER FOR STYX" JEWELLERY LINE: Legendary rockers STYX--Tommy Shaw, James "JY" Young, Chuck Panozzo, Lawrence Gowan, Ricky Phillips and Todd Sucherman­have teamed up with jewellery designer Diana Warner (www.dianawarnerstudio.com) to create the "Diana Warner for Styx" jewellery collection, which was made available exclusively on the band's official website (www.styxworld.com) on November 11, just in time for holiday shopping. Each piece is hand-made in Diana Warner's New York City studio, with prices ranging from $55-$200. The first items available are eight dog tag necklaces made of 30 inch chains of gunmetal, antique gold or antique silver plate over brass. The charms are made of pewter and rose gold, gunmetal, antique gold or antique silver. They'll also be selling guitar pick earrings available in 4 finishes: gunmetal, rose gold, antique gold and antique silver, as well as antique gold and silver charms with one of the band's well-recognized lyrics, "Come Sail Away With Me." This is only the first part of the "Diana Warner for Styx" collection. Multiple styles of limited edition charms will be created in 2012, which will be sold in a small number and will be considered collector's items. A full line of "Diana Warner for Styx" jewellery will be made available in 2012. This is the first collection Diana has designed for a band and collaborated on this project with singer/guitarist Tommy Shaw's wife, Jeanne Shaw. "The second we saw Diana's pieces, we knew we wanted to work with her," says Jeanne. "We're so thrilled to be able to offer something very special to Styx's fans that's worlds different than anything we've done before. We hope they love the collection as much as we do." In touring news, Styx is continuing to criss-cross the U.S. in support of Regeneration, Volume I & II, a double-disc collection of re-recorded classics that was released on October 4 via Eagle Rock Entertainment. In addition to thirteen STYX classics and a brand new song "Difference In The World". Regeneration, Volume I & II also includes interpretations of "High Enough," and "Coming Of Age," originally recorded by Damn Yankees, which featured Tommy Shaw, along with Night Ranger's Jack Blades, Ted Nugent and drummer Michael Cartellone. The band had originally re-recorded these acclaimed anthems to sell only at their live shows, as they continued to tour the globe and introduce a new generation of fans to their chart-topping hits. Now, for the first time, this music has been made commercially available. Check them out at any of the following stops (with more being added in the coming weeks): Fri 12/16 Savannah, GA Johnny Mercer Theatre Sat 12/17 Montgomery, AL Montgomery Performing Arts Center 1/25/12 Anaheim, CA The Grove 1/27/12 Temecula, CA Pechanga Casino 1/28/12 Reno, NV Silver Legacy Casino 2/10/12 Las Vegas, NV Green Valley Ranch/Grand Events Center 2/11/12 Wendover, NV Peppermill Concert Hall 3/9/12 Miami, FL Magic City Casino Amphitheater 3/10/12 Silver Springs, FL Twin Oaks Amphitheatre WebLinks: www.styxworld.com / www.facebook.com/styxtheband / www.twitter.com/styxtheband. INTRODUCING MOUNTAIN KING MANAGEMENT: Jon Oliva, one of music's most celebrated Singer/Songwriters (Savatage/Trans-Siberian Orchestra/Jon Olivas Pain) and fellow Drummer/Producer, Christopher Kinder (Jon Oliva's Pain) have announced the official start-up of "Mountain King Management." MKM is focused on cultivating, producing, and promoting select artists throughout the United States and the international marketplace. And after 2 years of development, MKM would like to introduce The Eternal Affect as the first band signed to their new venture. TEA, with the help of MKM, will begin recording their debut release in early 2012. Jon Oliva: "The thought of starting a Production/Management company has been a wild idea in our heads for a few years now. Chris and I felt that we had a credible package of songwriting/recording experience and a combined knowledge of today's music business. We were always aware of the changing musical arena, but with the sound and dedication of The Eternal Affect, it finally gave us a reason to move MKM forward. Niko Klimentos and the rest of the TEA line-up (including Top 60 2011 American Idol finalist, Casey Schuber) have created a one-of-a-kind mix of metal, hard rock, pop, and theatrical music. No two songs are alike, yet they are all filled with infectious melodies and passionate music performed with great precision. This level of talent is mind-boggling at such a young age. The future for TEA is very promising and I am stoked to be an integral part of their music and their future". Christopher Kinder: "Between Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Jon Oliva's Pain responsibilities, we wanted to team up with the next generation of talent and see what we could do to help develop and direct a band that had their eyes firmly on the prize. TEA is just that band both musically and professionally. They have a unique ability to create one hook-filled dynamic song after another. They are all half the age of Jon and myself, yet they fully understand what it takes to write great songs... not for what is popular on today's radio but for what appeals to a wider range of audience tastes--both new and old. The combination of stellar songwriting, vocals, and performance make TEA a standout from the "clone" bands of today. And now the door has swung wide open to move this talented group to another level". Please check out The Eternal Affect on Kickstarter to see how you can directly impact the recording and release of their debut CD. You'll be glad you did... And check out "The Eternal Affect" on their Facebook page and listen to 14 demo samples now in the final stage of pre-production for their debut release in 2012. Sign up and be apart of all things TEA! www.facebook.com/TheEternalAffect. LORD VULTURE RELEASE SOPHMORE ALBUM: Today is a big day for Lord Volture, for it is the release of their sophomore album Never Cry Wolf. The band want to express a big thanks to the people in Italy, France, Finland, Germany, Japan, Australia and The Netherlands who already bought the pre-order of the new CD! As a teaser to the full album Lord Volture have uploaded another song, available on www.lordvolture.com. The full album can be ordered from www.lordvolture.com/merch. The new Lord Volture album. A delicacy for the steel-hearted with upbeat thrash tracks, grandiloquent epics as well as catchy rockers that will definitely get some heads bangin'. Featuring master vocalist Sean Peck from US metal crusaders Cage! Deluxe digipack and 16-page booklet with superb artwork. Tracklist: #01 Never Cry Wolf #02 Taiga #03 Wendigo #04 Celestial Bodies Fall #05 Korgon's Descent #06 Minutes to Madness #07 Necro Nation #08 I am King #09 Into the Lair of a Lion #10 Brother #11 The Wolf at your Door. WebLinks: www.lordvolture.com / www.rockngrowl.com/lord-volture. NEW MODEL LABEL PROMOTION, PRESENTS: BI-POLAR SLUTS - "OUT-4-DINNER": The debut album of a contemporary Hard Rock band from Italy. Bi-Polar Sluts are a contemporary Hard Rock band from Italy and Out-4-dinner is their first album produced by Cristiano Santini at Morphing Studios (Bologna - Italy), released by Black Fading Records, published by New Model Label and distributed in Italy by Audioglobe. A prominent feature is the past musical career of Bi-Polar Slut's drummer Paul Casali, formerly drummer of Raw Power, a powerful Italian Hardcore band, which during the 80's shared the stage in the U.S. with superstars such as: Bad Brains, Agnostic Front, Dead Kennedys, Suicidal Tendencies and many other. For the first album single "Keep Screaming" a video has been shot and produced by Film Cartel Entertainment and directed by Hollywood producer Peter Dioni in southern California. Next dates: Dec 16th 2011 - "Out-4-Dinner" Release Party @ Vicolo Stretto - Colorno (Italy) Jan. 14th 2012 - Bar Odissea Via Nazionale 32 43043 Borgo Val di Taro (Italy) Jan. 28th 2012 - Caffe' Letterario - V.le Fratti n. 20 - Parma March 3rd 2012 - Bandit Biker's Pub - Via dei Vetrai 6/a 43100 Parma (Italy) ...more dates coming soon... Bi-Polar Sluts are: Mike Molinari (vocals) - Giux Morini (guitars) - Max Gavina (guitars) - Joe "Forlo" Forlini (Bass) - Paolo "Paul" Casali (Drums) Tracklist: 1. Out-4-dinner (intro) 2. Aperiti"ve" 3. I can't stand it 4. Keep Screaming 5. Listen to me 6. Treat u bad 7. One Day 9. Never Trust a Woman 10. Believe 11. Prelude to... 12. Something to kill the pain 13. Sammy's Backyard 14. Back-4-Breakfast (Outro). WebLink: www.bipolarsluts.com. MELODIC BRIEFS: Steven Wilson of Porcupine Tree just did an In-store in NYC at the famed J&R Music World. Check it out at: www.piercingmetal.com/wordpress/?p=9138. Noize in The Attic - Where Your Past Comes Back To Haunt You (www.noizeintheattic.com) on WNHU 88.7 FM New Haven CT airing Fridays 2-4PM EST (streaming on wnhu.net) just interviewed Tracii Guns & Dilana after a gig in Milford CT for the show but it was way too long and WAY too much swearing to use on the air, so we posted it online. Tons of dirt on Nikki, Phil and Steve, Axl.. dissing Jizzy and Gilby etc. www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdIim0PGIOA. Rockpages Web Magazine in Greece talked with Jimi Jamison who revealed to us that he's back with Frankie Sullivan for a string of Survivor shows: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=6471&type=10&lang=EN. "Trucker Diablo have been handpicked by promoters to support Black Stone Cherry on the Irish leg of their European tour. This is an amazing end to an amazing year for the Trucker Boys who have enjoyed the successes of playing at Download Festival 2011, being signed up by American based label Ripple Music and recently having their first American single, 'Drink Beer, Destroy', being added to Rock Band for the Xbox. Next year is already kicking into gear with Trucker being added to Hammerfest which will be headlined by Anthrax. Trucker's debut album, The Devil Rhythm, will be released through Ripple Music at the start of December, 2011. More on Trucker Diablo at www.truckerdiablo.com. Matrex's Tony Dominelli's debut album Dominelli will be released internationally by Renegade Publicity in one short week (November 22)! You can listen to the album on Bandcamp and advanced digital sales are available now. Keep your eyes (and ears) open for more news, radio plays, and reviews. tonydominelli.bandcamp.com/album/dominelli / www.renegadeproductions.net/services/servicesPUBL.html.

 

 

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

SURVIVOR - JIMI JAMISON RETURNS: Unfortunately the press release didn't arrive in time (stay tuned) and the man in question himself let slip what was going on - but right now I am very excited to confirm that vocalist Jimi Jamison is returning to the Survivor camp. Plans are still being formalized, but Jimi is returning to tour with the band - which will be stepping up it's performance schedule and also heading to Europe to play select festivals in 2012. Frankie Sullivan told me personally yesterday that it was "a solid move" and "a step in the right direction" to get Jimi back in the fold to hit the road and in Frankie's words "go out and play the hits". Jim Peterik is not involved at this time and there is currently no plans to record, but that will hopefully be updated once Jimi settles back in. Stay tuned for the formal press release. GERMANY'S HEAVY METAL FINEST PRIMAL FEAR TO RELEASE NINTH STUDIO ALBUM UNBREAKABLE: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Primal Fear's new studio album entitled Unbreakable on January 20, 2012 in Europe and January 24 in North America. After a sensational tour through South America in spring 2011, more dates in Europe plus an outstanding appearance on the 2011 edition of the Wacken Open Air, the band was fired up to enter the recording studio to start tracking their ninth studio album. The target was crystal clear - producer & bassist Mat Sinner: "After touring for two years without breaks, the guys realized the fan favourites very well and we wrote an untamed, powerful and crushing album together". Unbreakable combines the skills of the strongest Primal Fear line-up ever, with a well-balanced "back to the roots" vibe and an ambitious learning process during their longest tour so far. Classic and ultra-fresh Primal Fear riff-rockers like "Strike", "Give Em Hell" or the high speed track "And There Was Silence" will hit the bulls-eye, like the rhythm paced metal anthem, first single and new video clip "Bad Guys Wear Black". Less experiments, more rock! But there will be a nine-minute epic journey with a lot prog approach named "Where Angels Die", a classic wonderful ballad "Born Again" and the melodic power bomb "Metal Nation". Singer Ralf Scheepers adds: "the plan was to record an album for the fans with rough metal riffs, screaming vocals and good melodies ...... and finally it became a monster – a tough 'bang-your-head' metal album called "Unbreakable". Magnus Karlsson and Alex Beyrodt are worldwide respected guitarists – together they are unbeatable! Ralf Scheepers vocal performance shines bright on a new level on all new songs. And what can go wrong if you're backed by one of the best rhythm sections in metal with Randy Black and Mat Sinner? Plus backing vocals by the "Fantastic Four": Ralf Scheepers, Mat Sinner, Erik Martensson and Oliver Hartmann. You can hear the result on Primal Fears new statement called "Unbreakable"! Unbreakable was produced by Mat Sinner, engineered and mixed by Achim Koehler & the House Of Music studios and some more studios in Germany & Sweden between summer and autumn 2011 and will include the following tracks: Unbreakable (Part1); Strike; Give 'Em Hell; Bad Guys Wear Black; And There Was Silence; Metal Nation; Where Angels Die; Unbreakable (Part 2); Marching Again; Born Again; Blaze Of Glory; Conviction; Night Of The Jumps (Bonus Track)*; Bad Guys Wear Black (Video)* / * Only available in the first pressing in digipak. Unbreakable will be anticipated by the digital only release of the single Bad Guys Wear Black which will be available for download and streaming on December 5. The single will also include "Metal Nation" in an exclusive single mix. Don't miss the German Metal Commando when they're coming to your town! Primal Fear: Ralf Scheepers – Vocals; Alex Beyrodt – Guitars; Magnus Karlsson – Guitar, Keyboards; Randy Black – Guitars; Mat Sinner – Bass & Vocals.   xx THE LATEST FROM AVENUE OF ALLIES MUSIC: German melodic rock label Avenue Of Allies' next four releases are due for release on December 9. The detail sof which are as follows. Expect Showcases of all three titles soon. Angeline - Disconnected - Angeline looks back on a vivid band history of more than two decades. After the band's foundation back in 1987, when most of the boys were still in their teens, they played their first gigs together. Inspired by the unexpected success of "Confessions" (2010), their first full length album of all original new material, the Swedish band Angeline now delivers the much anticipated follow-up "Disconnected". This album now picks up where "Confessions" left off and with only two albums under their belt the band has managed to create its very own sound. It's a unique combination of Melodic Rock, a genre that was popular when Angeline first started out more than twenty years ago, with super catchy hooklines, multi layered harmonies in Harem Scarem fashion and a healthy dose of Modern Rock, which shows their wide range of influences from bands such as Daughtry, 3 Doors Down and the recent Bon Jovi albums and for good measure a bit of the Retro Hard Rock sound à la Airbourne and Bullet is added. The album features a crisp and powerful production by the band's guitarist Jocke Nilsson and a state-of-the-art mastering by Björn Engelmann (Stage Dolls, Wig Wam, Within Temptation, Williams/Friestedt). More on the web: www.angelinetheband.se. Angeline are: Jocke Nilsson - Lead Vocals & Guitar; Janne Arkegren – Guitar; Uffe Nilsson – Bass; Tobbe Jonsson – Drums & percussion. Guest musicians: Micke Stenberg - Backing Vocals; Johan Bobäck - Strings on "Solid Ground".   xx Coastland Ride - On Top Of The World & Coastland Ride +3 (remastered) - In the fall of 2011, the Swedish band and German record company Avenue Of Allies started a partnership resulting in the release of "On Top Of The World" and a remastered re-release of the self-titled Coastland Ride debut album. In addition to a significantly improved sound, the re-issue of the band's debut which was originally released in 2003 on the AOR Heaven label also includes three bonus tracks in the form of the unreleased songs "Jenny's Heart", "The World Is Not Enough" and "Pitch Black Ride" from the original recording sessions. The brand new record "On Top Of The World" is an album that picks up the Coastland Ride trademarks from the debut while refining the band's sound with a top notch production. Each song has its unique style and the tunes come to life through catchy melodies and tasteful arrangements, with the lyrics being just as important as the music. Sven Larsson (Street Talk/ Lionville) guests on half of the songs on the new album on solo guitar. The songs were recorded at various studios in Sweden in 2011, produced by Coastland Ride and mixed by the band together with Patrik Norman. Jonas Ekström was in charge for the mastering of the new CD as well as for the remastering of "Coastland Ride". More on the web: www.myspace.com/coastlandride. Coastland Ride are: Markus Nordenberg - Lead & background vocals, add. Keyboards; Anders Rybank - Guitars, keyboards, bass & programming; Mikael Bohlin - Guitars, keyboards & programming. Guest musicians on On Top Of The World: Sven Larsson - Guitar solos on 1, 2, 5, 7, 11; Leif Eriksson - Guitar solos on 3, 8, 10; Morgan Östlin – saxophone solo on 4; Patrik Norman – guitars, bass, keyboards, drums & programming on 7, 8; Mikael Cederholm, Benka Jansson : Backing vocals on 5; Maria Ritzén – female vocals on 10; Mark Woznicki – the voice on 10. Guest musicians on Coastland Ride: Per Stenvall - Guitar solo on "Believe in Me"; Anders Ringman - Guitar solo on "Eyes"; Tomas Coox - Rhodes piano on "Eyes"; Benka Jansson & Mikael Cederholm - Backing Vocals.   xxxx Iain Ashley Hersey - Vintage Love – Best Of - Growing up in New England, Iain Ashley Hersey cut his teeth on the heavier British Rock Bands such as Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Bad Company and guitar players like Jeff Beck, Ritchie Blackmore, Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix. Certainly influenced by the voices from the past he's always strived to grow musically and develop his own style of which he has now most certainly carved out his own unique voice and signature. Later seeking to expand his musical vocabulary he studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston where he studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston where he expanded his realm into that of Jazz improvisation, eventually though he returned to the fold of Rock 'n' Roll. "Vintage Love" is the name of his brand new release, a compilation including the best of Iain's previous work which consists of the albums Fallen Angel (1999), The Holy Grail (2005) and Nomad (2008). With Red Head Rampage one previously unreleased bonus track was added. Among the musicians joining Iain for the records is an impressive cast of top notch vocalists like Paul Shortino (ex-Quiet Riot), Doogie White (ex-Rainbow), Graham Bonnet (ex-Rainbow, MSG) and Carsten Schulz (Evidence One). This release will without a doubt appeal to fans of Classic Rock, Hard Rock and Melodic Rock bands, but also for lovers of Blues influenced Classic Rock artists such as Black Country Communion, Philip Sayce, Richie Kotzen and Joe Bonamassa, Iain Ashley Hersey has a lot to offer. More on the web: www.facebook.com/iainashleyhersey. Musicians: Iain Ashley Hersey - Guitars, bass, Hammond; Lead Vocals: Graham Bonnet, Dante Marchi, David "Swan" Montgomery, Carsten "Lizard" Schulz, Paul Shortino, Mike Stone, Doogie White, Randy Williams; Guitars: Steffen "Seegi" Seeger; Bass: Paul Logue, Jochen Mayer, Marvin Sperling, Dave Sutton; Drums: Sam Aliano, Jimmy Griego, Bernd Herrmann, Frank Kraus, Tony Medeiros; Hammond / Keyboards: Jim Austin, Alessandro Del Vecchio, Pat Regan, Holger Seeger, Harlan Spector; Orchestration: Philip Wolfe.   xx KEVIN RUSSELL JOINS THE HIT MEN: Guitarist Kevin Russell (707, Ted Nugent, Taxxi) has sent out this update for fans: "Looks like 2012 is gonna be a busy year. I have planted a few seeds and worked hard this past year. Along with signing to TEI Entertainment Group as my new presenting agents. I must say they are getting my Cream Of Clapton Show some very cool dates (more on that coming up later..) www.creamofclapton.blogspot.com. I was asked to join The Hit Men All Stars in 2012 which includes some of my longtime classic rock buddies. Dates start in April thru the fall. It will include (the States, Mexico, Europe, South America and Canada). paradigmlive.com/artist/HitMenAllStars.html The Hit Men are: Curly Smith (drums and vocals) Boston; Jimmy Crespo (guitar & vocals) Aerosmith/Rod Stewart; Billy Burnette (guitar and vocals) Fleetwood Mac; Jack Sonni (guitar & vocals) Dire Straits; Steve Augeri (vocals) Journey; Gary Moon (bass & vocals) Night Ranger/3 Dog Night/Cheap Trick; Dizzy Reed (keyboards) Guns n Roses; Kevin Russell (guitar & vocals) 707/Ted Nugent/Whitesnake. IVORYTEARS MUSIC WORKS ANNOUNCES DOCKER'S GUILD: Alessandro Del Vecchio of Ivorytears Music Works is pleased to announce that his company signed this marvellous Progressive Rock Space Opera featuring the likes of Amanda Somerville, Gregg Bissonette, Magnus Jacobson, Tony Franklin, Guthrie Govan, Jeff Watson, John Payne, Göran Edman and Tony Mills. Alessandro and the main man behind the whole opera, Douglas R. Docker of the famous AOR rockers Biloxi, are shopping for a worldwide release early next year and Ivorytears Music Works will manage exclusively all licenses, A&R and business matters for Dockers Guild. Docker's Guild - The Mystic Technocracy (Season I: The Age of Ignorance) - A Progressive Rock Space Opera by Douglas R. Docker. Musicians: Douglas R. Docker (Biloxi, Area 51): keyboards, lead vocals (track 3), backing vocals (tracks 1 – 8 , 10), spoken voice (track 4) John Payne (Asia): lead and backing vocals (tracks 2, 6) Göran Edman (Yngwie Malmsteen, John Norum, Nostradamus, Karma): lead and backing vocals (tracks 4, 10), spoken voice (track 4) Tony Mills (TNT, Shy): lead and backing vocals (tracks 5, 7, 8) Amanda Somerville (Avantasia, Epica): lead and backing vocals (track 10) Gregg Bissonette (David Lee Roth, Joe Satriani, Steve Lukather): drums (tracks 1 – 4, 7 – 10) Magnus Jacobson (Miss Behavior): drums (tracks 5, 6) Tony Franklin (Blue Murder, Whitesnake, The Firm): bass Guthrie Govan (Asia): guitars Jeff Watson (Night Ranger, Mother's Army): rhythm guitar (tracks 1, 3, 5), 12-string guitar (track 3), first solo (track 5) Donald D. Docker: alto and tenor sax (track 1), clarinet (tracks 1, 8, 10), spoken voice (tracks 1, 4) Additional spoken voices: Silvana Momigliano (track 4) Touria Nouri (track 4) Andrea Rampa (Rustfield) (track 4) Janthana Rodjakkhen (tracks 3, 4) Davide Ronfetto (Rustfield) (track 4) Docker's Guild is the solo effort of Douglas R. Docker, who put his talent and writing skill into The Mystic Technocracy, an opera which unfolds over 5 "seasons". The first season, called "Season I: The Age of Ignorance", sees the participation of worldwide acclaimed musicians like Gregg Bissonette, Magnus Jacobson, Tony Franklin, Guthrie Govan, Jeff Watson, John Payne, Göran Edman, Amanda Somerville, Tony Mills and many others. Docker's Guild, even if inspired by progressive masters like Yes, ELP, Dream Theater and Genesis, lives on its own sounds which is a very personal mixture of progressive roots played and crafted by mainly AOR musicians. Indeed, this is one of Douglas Docker's main goals: to have AOR musicians play prog rock and metal. That's why in the lineup we see people like Tony Mills, Göran Edman and Jeff Watson, known to the world as melodic rock artists, who are surprisingly put into a progressive outfit. Docker's Guild takes its name after a word game between the name of the leader and an episode of the sci-fi series called Babylon 5. In one of the episodes there was a plot about the Dockers' Guild revolting against their bosses. Douglas just moved the apostrophe and that's how the project started. Douglas R. Docker has worked with a lot of acclaimed artists like Tony Franklin, Tim Bogert, Shining Line and Graig Goldie besides being the keyboardist for internationally acclaimed melodic rock band Biloxi. Biloxi's debut "Let The Games Begin" obtained worldwide success, reaching n. 10 in the Japanese charts (Burrn! Magazine) and n. 1 in England as the best import CD of 1993 (Kerrang! Magazine), as well as collecting an impressive amount of rave reviews worldwide. Biloxi toured the Los Angeles club scene extensively in 1993-1994, regularly headlining and selling out all the legendary Sunset Strip clubs, such as the Roxy, the Wiskey à Gogo and the Troubadour, among others. Biloxi then went on a promotional tour in Mississippi which culminated by headlining a show at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi (MS) in January 1994. Concept - The Mystic Technocracy is a new and exciting science-fiction story and music project that has been in development for a number of years. It is the fictional outcome of a very simple observation: for 4000 years man has tortured, murdered, waged warfare and committed genocide in the name of the same God worshiped by Christians, Jews and Muslims, the three monotheistic religions. It is not a story against religion, but it is a story about the madness of man when he falls under the influence of fanatical dogmatic faith. This religious premise has then been plugged into a science-fiction universe, in which religion was created by a silicon-based life form, the Mystic Technocracy, in order to control, manipulate and eventually destroy humanity. Music - The sound of The Mystic Technocracy results from the mixture of several music styles. Progressive rock is the main driving force, with Yes, ELP, Dream Theater and Genesis being particularly influential. The songwriting and vocal arrangements have also been inspired by melodic rock and AOR acts, mostly Asia and Journey. More subtle and unusual influences come from Duran Duran, David Bowie, Jean-Michel Jarre and obscure French space-rock act the Rockets. The project therefore contains complex multi-section suites, more straightforward rock songs or ballads, as well as more unusual instrumental or groove-oriented tracks. The music is mainly keyboard-oriented and Douglas's fine instrumental work is inspired by musicians like Geoff Downes, Gregg Giuffria and Keith Emerson. The album is a 79 minutes long opera, 10 songs among which 2 long suites, in the perfect tradition of progressive masters' albums from the past. Docker's Guild can easily become a reference point in the progressive scene. The album stands for its songwriting, vocal arrangements, superb keyboards work and the deep and well-structured concept. Class-A mix by Simon Hanhart, producer of Asia, Marillion and Arena. Mastered by Mike Lind (Dio, Talisman, Candlemass, Edge of Forever, Moonstone Project) and with a superb visionary artwork by Carl Andrè Beckston of Monowasp Design. A snippet of the album can be heard at this link: www.edgeofforever.it/promotion/dockers_guild.html. ATTICA RAGE PART WAYS WITH BASSIST BIG C: Scottish rockers Attica Rage have announced the departure of long-term bassist Colin 'Big C' Walls. In an official statement posted on their Facebook page, the band explains, "We regret to announce that Big C has decided to step away from Attica Rage with immediate effect and we have accepted his resignation. The band has achieved a huge amount over the last couple of years and we have even bigger, exciting plans ahead including UK and European touring and a new album. But with these plans comes a huge amount of commitment and a certain amount of risk that every band member has to take. C has been part of Attica Rage since day one and has been through all the highs and lows together with Richie, Jonny and Stevie. But he has different priorities in his personal life now and he can't fully offer the level of commitment we need going forward." Big C added further: "I've left for personal reasons and I can no longer commit to the band the way I used to. I wish the band all the success". Attica Rage confirms that there is no animosity between them, they part on good terms and that they remain friends. Attica Rage are now inviting applications from interested bass guitarists to join the band at the start of a new, exciting chapter. Auditions will be held in Glasgow in January 2012 with the successful person in place for rehearsals in the lead-up to tour dates in spring. Interested bassists should read the criteria posted on the band's Facebook page and contact the band at info@atticarage.com, including a music CV / biography along with photo and links to music or videos of their performances. After signing to Rocksector Records earlier this year for the release of their critically-acclaimed, second album 'Road Dog', the album was launched with a live showcase on the main stage at Hammerfest III and an appearance at the HRH RoadTrip in Ibiza. At home in Glasgow, they headlined 'Rock For Funds', helping to raise over £4000 for the Yorkhill Children's Foundation. In summer, the band opened the Metal Hammer stage at the High Voltage Festival in London sharing a festival bill with Judas Priest, Slash, Thin Lizzy and Dream Theater, amongst others. Attica Rage recently completed a UK headline tour promoting the 'Road Dog' album and a short tour supporting Die So Fluid. 2012 will see the band tour the UK extensively along with additional dates in Europe, summer festivals and plans to record their third album. Attica Rage end a successful 2011 with three UK headline shows in December. They'll be joined on these shows by a temporary stand-in bassist. Dates include Friday 16th Dec at Mello Mello, Liverpool; the all-day Metal Gods TV Christmas party on Saturday 17th at Intake Club, Mansfield and Sunday 18th at Lock 42, Leicester. There is also a special solo acoustic event taking place on Thursday 29th December at Captains Rest, Glasgow under the banner 'PunkRockBlues' featuring Attica singer Jonny Parr, JonZip from punk band The Zips and alt.blues hellraiser and Attica collaborator Dave Arcari. Jonny will be performing acoustic versions of songs from the new 'Road Dog' album. Tickets for all shows are on sale now – check out the official Attica Rage Facebook page for ticket links and more info about bass player auditions at www.facebook.com/AtticaRageOfficial

 

 

Monday, November 14, 2011

ITS THE SINGER NOT THE SONG: Survivor have parted ways with singer Robin McAuley, ending a five year association with the band. He joined shortly after the release of the band's last studio album Reach (which featured Jimi Jamison on vocals). Robin posted this message on his Facebook page: "Thank you all for 5 great years with Survivor. It's now time to explore new and exciting opportunities. I look forward seeing you soon." So what's next for the band? Well, I talked to guitarist Frankie Sullivan today and I expect to be able to post the official press release in the next 24hrs. And Frankie has offered his time for a full interview, which I will do later this week/early next week to discuss all the future plans in details.   BILLBOARD REFLECTS ON VAN HALEN/INTERSCOPE DEAL: Interesting story appeared late Friday on Billboard.com, after I broke news via Twitter that Van Halen had ditched plans to sign to Columbia and chose LA based Interscope Records instead. Read below for a little more inside information on the signing. Here's my take - I was told the band wanted a "hipper" label - they got that - but they also wanted a LA based label to be closer to the action and the decisions that would need to be made over the next 6 months (with the album and tour etc..) Read through the insider comments below and it seems that was indeed the case, but I was surprised to read that it was singer David Lee Roth that was making this demand, as it seems the plan is to have him front and centre for upcoming PR push. This to me is an interesting point. The Van Halen camp want us to believe that the band is a united team....but I see this more as the Van Halen Brothers being acutely aware that they must keep DLR happy, as he is their only option to move forward and continue touring/recording...or at the heart of it...making money! The band simply had to fulfil fan demands for the DLR partnership from 2008 to continue and (finally) record a new album after 13 years wait. Going back to Sammy Hagar certainly wasn't an option. I can't see how that will ever work again after Sammy's book and continued comments on the state of VH....plus the fact Sammy won't return without Michael Anthony. And moving forward with a 4th lead singer, or a collaboration of various singers on one album (something we've continually heard Eddie would like to do), would cause such a revolt amongst fans (still burnt from the Gary Cherone album/tour) that any hope of making big bucks on tour would be wiped clean. So David Lee Roth is the lynch pin in this scenario, and therefore holds all the power. Signing to Interscope is an interesting decision and I for one hope that it comes together nicely for the band. If Roth is to do the bulk of the press, one wonders if Eddie will be available at all? After all, there is a lot of questions fans and press have for him. It will be interesting to see if this VH/DLR relationship is authentic and if there is genuine chemistry between the guys on record and on stage. I for one think that is crucial. And one thing remains absolutely vital. This new studio record must absolutely 100% kick some serious ass. On a lighter note - as a die-hard Van Halen fan, it's nice to see the light at the end of the tunnel. It's good to feel excited about new music coming our way. From Billboard: Van Halen To Sign With Interscope / By Shirley Halperin, THR / www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/industry/record-labels/van-halen-to-sign-with-interscope-1005511802.story "Iconic rock band Van Halen are set to sign with Interscope Records, says a source familiar with the negotiations. The deal is expected to be finalized next week, marking the first time in 35 years that the band will not release music through Warner Music, its longtime label home. It had been rumored -- and reported -- that the band was joining the Columbia Records roster. In fact, an insider tells The Hollywood Reporter that the contract for the Sony deal was drawn up and approved but hadn't been signed when Universal Music stepped into the picture. The signing was a group effort involving UMG chairman and CEO Lucian Grainge, UMG International COO Max Hole, Interscope Geffen A&M vice chairman Steve Berman and Interscope's Jimmy Iovine, who, says a source, "heard the band was available and wanted to work with them. It was decided at the 11th hour." What came next was a series of meetings that presented the band with a global plan that included extensive marketing, merchandising, touring and, of course, recordings. So what derailed the Columbia deal? The usual rock band complications, says an insider. While the group reunited with original singer David Lee Roth in 2006, the Sony label could not come to terms with Roth, who has a separate management, legal and accounting team than the other three members, guitarist Eddie Van Halen and his son Wolfgang (who replaced bassist Michael Anthony) and drummer Alex Van Halen. The main issue for Roth? He was apparently adamant about being on a west coast label. "He was never on board [with Columbia]," says the source. "It was as complicated as anyone would imagine, when one side says black, the other says white. The label was pretty sceptical that things would work out." It's expected that as frontman, Roth will have to carry much of the marketing burden and it seems the band members ultimately want their singer to be happy with the deal which is why they went with Universal's west coast-based Interscope. A new album, their first studio effort since 1984, is believed to be nearly finished with the hope that it can be released in 2012. The band is expected to make a "special announcement" on Nov. 30 at the Grammy Awards nominations concert, which will air live on CBS from Los Angeles' Nokia Theater. An Interscope rep had no comment." MELODIC BRIEFS: Mr. Big are in the process of mixing another live album - this time I think it was recorded on the US leg of the 2011 tour - featuring a set list to die for. Stay tuned... Royal Hunt: a teaser for the first single – Hard Rain´s Coming from the upcoming new album has been uploaded (available for download from November 14 including a live version of Martial Arts recorded at ProgPower USA in 2009): www.youtube.com/watch?v=qAUUgxREqDY. STEVE GRIMMETT - AUSTRALIAN TOUR, MARCH 2012 - HELL DOWN UNDER: For the first time, Steve Grimmett will appear live on stage in Australia during March 2012. As one of the leading voices of 80's heavy metal Steve's body of work is breathtaking, as lead vocalist for Grim Reaper, Lionsheart, Onslaught, Empires of Eden and touring internationally with his Steve Grimmett band. The material performed will cover his entire career. Along with Steve is a band selected from the crème of Australian heavy metal talent featuring members from Paindivision, Ex-Dungeon, Empires of Eden, Dragonsclaw and The Amenta. Special guests will include the rising stars of Australian heavy metal Darker Half, Tasmanian power metallers Taberah and Sydney Based Dragonsclaw. Special early buy tickets are available now for $35 - these will sell out! Visit www.helldownunder.com for all information and the official YouTube channel here: www.youtube.com/user/helldownunder2012. WISHBONE ASH CELEBRATE THE RELEASE OF ELEGANT STEALTH: 11/13/2011 - Danbury, CT - Elegant Stealth represents a benchmark in the evolution of Wishbone Ash, one of the most influential guitar bands in the history of rock. Signature twin-lead melodies and a powerhouse rhythm section frame 11 new tracks that reflect a diverse realm of styles and moods. Elegant Stealth will be released on ZXY Music on November 25th. Formed in 1969, Wishbone Ash has more than 20 original studio recordings and several live albums to their credit. On Elegant Stealth, the group coalesces around strong songwriting and serious chops. Founding member Andy Powell handles lead vocals and trades licks with Finland's guitar wizard Muddy Manninen. Bassist Bob Skeat, a 14-year veteran of the band and in-demand studio musician, sets the pace with Joe Crabtree, one of the best of Britain's new breed of drummers, having played with Pendragon and David Cross of King Crimson. The band demonstrates its versatility on Elegant Stealth, from the pop/rocker 'Reason to Believe' to the gentler vibe of Give it Up to tunes Warm Tears and Big Issues where the band gets to stretch out and flex its musical muscles. Guest artists appearing on the new CD include Deep Purple's Don Airey, who played Hammond B3 organ on the instrumental Mud-slick, and Ireland's Pat McManus played fiddle on Can't Go It Alone, which he penned specially for Wishbone Ash. Citing Wishbone Ash as an influence on their style, Thin Lizzy, Iron Maiden, Southern Rock outfits like Lynyrd Skynyrd and, more recently, heavyweights like Opeth and some of the guitar-based Indie/Alternative bands, have all taken a little something from the legendary twin-guitar approach of Wishbone Ash. Truly, there is no other rock band on the planet that has done more with the twin guitar concept than the Ash. The band's recent dates in Japan and arena shows in South Africa were a prelude to a 6-week European tour to support Elegant Stealth starting in early January. The States will be visited in April with summer festival work there and in Europe in 2012. Tour dates and more information can be found at www.wishboneash.com. To download electronic press kit: www.wishboneash.com/epk. MELODIC BRIEFS 2: Winterland have a free download up on Amazon.com: www.amazon.com/Ewige-Beginner/dp/B00631WIK0. This version of the song "Ewige Beginner" is a duet with Kahira, a female singer from Boeblingen who is signed to the same label. Bronz will be unleashing the classic band line-up with Max Bacon back in the front seat on lead vocals, Shaun Kirkpatrick (Guitar) and Paul Webb (Bass) from the original line-up, Clive Edwards Ex UFO (Drums) and Mickey 'O' Donoghue Ex Grand Prix (Guitar), it should be a memorable occasion, were looking forward to see you all there! Into the Eye of The Storm! Voodoo Six are starting a tour this week. Check out the details below.   MELODICROCK DONATION DRIVE: I want to thank everyone for the response over the last few days to yet another donation drive for the site. The response and feedback - and generosity - of those that donated is humbling and greatly appreciated. No time to breathe easy, but at least I can now continue working on a long term plan. As stated in my initial comments, it isn't easy to reach out for help and hopefully this will be the last time for a while. There was a couple of questions raised about my last fund raising drive for the new MelodicRock website. Again, as stated, I am having some difficulties with the web design company I chose in the USA and am currently trying to get those issues sorted so this site can be completed and delivered. The site has been fully paid for with those donations and I remain excited about what a new updated design and new ideas will bring to the site and those using it. Thanks for hanging in there. On a lighter note - my UK Postal Stalker is back with his 3rd missive - a brilliantly stated analysis of "missed opportunities" in my questioning of Steve Perry. Except the guy obviously can't read, as you will understand by checking out my Facebook post on the anonymous letter! Check it out: www.facebook.com/people/Andrew-McNeice/541722325.

 

 

11/11/11 - Nigel Tufnel Day

VAN HALEN SIGN TO INTERSCOPE RECORDS: Van Halen have gone against initial talk of signing to Columbia and have instead signed with LA based Interscope Records. It is believed that the band wanted to work with a label that was based closer to their own base - therefore LA over the NYC based Columbia. My source that told me of this news yesterday stated that another factor in the band's decision was "that they did not deem Columbia Records "hip" enough" - preferring to go with the more contemporary Interscope label, which was thought to be a better fit. The band's first album with David Lee Roth since the 1984 opus is scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2012. VOCALIST LEE SMALL KICKS OFF 2012 IN STYLE: Escape Music are pleased to announce their first release of 2012 - vocalist Lee Small and his solo album Jamaica Inn - due out January 20. Track List: Jamaica Inn / The Captain's Quarters / Black Bess / Walk the Plank / Shine A Light / Dead Man Walking / Voyager / I am the sea / Smuggler's Blues / Waiting for the Hangman / End of the road / The Renegade Accordion Player. Guests Musicians: Martin Kronlund: Guitars (Gypsy Rose); Imre Daun: Drums (Don Patrol, Gypsy Rose); Paul Bradder: Keyboards (Saracen). Audio Preview: Jamaica Inn (2 Minute Edit) Lee Small hails from the West Midlands in the U.K, a place that has brought a wealth of talent in rock music & heavy metal gentry, such as Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, Robert Plant, Magnum, John Bonham, Slade, Mel & Tom Galley & the voice of rock, Glenn Hughes to name just a few. Lee started out originally as a bass player in bands at just the age of 14 years and was playing the midlands pub scene at 15. He took up guitar in 1986 and became a vocalist fronting a band for the first time 3 years later, then, quite by accident as the band he was playing in at the time kept losing the vocalist, they all decided to have a go at singing and he ended up getting the job!! Since then, Lee has been quietly climbing the ladder to success. In the 1990's Lee fronted UK Melodic Rockers "Pride" and had the opportunity to tour with up and coming bands at the time such as Winger, Skin and Thunder. In the late 90's he formed Native Cain with ex-Pride members and released the album "Primitive Soul" with them in 1998. During 2000 he has been involved with Rock legends "Budgie" and Eric Bell's "Thin Lizzy". It was not long before Escape Music recognized his vocal talent and Lee features on Escape Music releases Surveillance ("Angelstation" ESM132) and Cloven Hoof ("Eye of the Sun" ESM133), not forgetting Tom Galley's Psychofantasy project ESM125 where Lee sang alongside such people as Tony Martin, Keith Murrell and Glenn Hughes. More recently Lee took to the mike stand for legendary UK melodic rockers Shy (ESM232), and has helped create a marvellous piece of music which has received reviews of epic proportions. Lee Small is a name at the forefront of the rock scene at present and what a time to unleash his very own solo outing, an album which is full of surprises. Lee has given us a bluesy rock album that features contributions from Martin Kronlund (Gypsy Rose), Imre Daun (Don Patrol, Gypsy Rose) and Paul Bradder (Saracen). This is Lee at his finest, and this solo outing will see him take his talent to new heights. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   xx ROCK CANDY REVEAL THEIR NOVEMBER RELEASES: The following four new Rock Candy titles are available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price of £10.99 each for the next two weeks ending on 27th November.   Orion The Hunter 'S/T' CANDY119 / The debut Boston album is not only regarded as one of the greatest rock albums of all time but it is also one of the biggest sellers. Its influence was all pervasive and set the standards for years to come. Behind the scenes, however, things were not going as smoothly as they seemed. Indeed, by the turn of the decade the band had all but imploded, with guitarist Barry Goudreau being the first to head off for pastures new. Initially, Goudreau recorded a well-received solo album, but a part of him still longed to be a member of a fully functioning band. With this goal in mind, he set about forming a new outfit, named, rather enigmatically, Orion The Hunter. Featuring lead vocalist Fran Cosmo - a man who would, somewhat ironically, later go on to actually join Boston - bassist Bruce Smith and former Heart drummer Michael DeRosier, the quartet spent nearly a year crafting a selection of songs that would form the basis of a quite remarkable album. Recorded at the renowned Power Station Studios in New York, the album was universally praised for its wealth of great songs, progressive arrangements and a sound built on the very foundations of Boston itself – Barry's guitar work in particular ringing with that unmistakeable tone. A truly first rate record and long recognised as a classic of its kind. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album, new interview with Barry Goudreau & Fran Cosmo and additional photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. All Those Years 2. So You Ran 3. Dreamin' 4. Dark And Stormy 5. Stand Up 6. Fast Talk 7. Too Much In Love 8. Joanne 9. I Call It Love. Skin 'S/T' CANDY118 / During the early 90s traditional hard rock had virtually been eradicated. Its presence overshadowed by the arrival of grunge, a primeval sludge reliant on down-tuned guitars and depressing lyrics. The grunge master plan was to exterminate melodic blues based rock and wipe it from the face of the earth. Fortunately, though, all was not lost. Central to the fightback were dedicated, hardnosed bands who were not content to take matters lying down. Whilst the Black Crowes and Brother Cain fought for their right to rock in the US, the UK hit back hard with exciting, young, chart bound talent that included Little Angels, Thunder and, of course, Skin. Formed from the ashes of respected Brit rock outfits Kooga and Jagged Edge and led by guitarist extraordinaire Myke Gray, Skin managed to confound the critics by securing heavy weight management, from Sanctuary (Iron Maiden) and a major label record deal from Parlophone. Their belief and the band's talent paid handsome dividends, helping to deliver 'Money', a top 20 hit single, and subsequently a top 10 UK album. Tours sold out and reviews were gushing. It was an amazing achievement. Originally issued in 1994, and produced by Keith Olsen (Whitesnake, Scorpions, Ozzy Osbourne), Skin's self-titled debut album is big on hard hitting guitar riffs, killer hooks and meticulous production. Of course, the icing on the cake is vocalist Neville McDonald, a veritable iron lunged howler in the finest Coverdale/ Rodgers mould. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 7 bonus tracks, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album, new interview with Myke Gray and additional photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Money 2. Shine Your Light 3. House Of Love 4. Colourblind 5. Which Are The Tears 6. Look But Don't Touch 7. Nightsong 8. Tower Of Strength 9. Revolution 10. Raised On Radio 11. Wings Of An Angel Bonus Tracks: 12. Monkey 13. Should I Stay Or Should I Go 14. Pump It Up 15. Good Good Lovin' 16. This Planet's On Fire 17. Take It Easy 18. Take Me Down To The River.   xx Helix 'Long Way To Heaven' CANDY131 / Helix were a band you could always count on to deliver; live they were like an explosion in a circus and on record they served up numerous hard rock anthems. Furthermore, they were relentless hard workers, banging out classy albums in the blink of an eye and touring the world like men possessed. The smart money was on Helix not only making the grade but also setting the bar for Canadian rock in general. 'Long Way To Heaven', originally issued in 1985, was the band's third album for Capitol records, their two previous records having elevated them from interesting contenders to hot-shot upstarts with their eyes set firmly on the prize. Naturally, this album doesn't disappoint either, erupting with a fine selection of sing-it-shout-it party rock anthems to rival the most successful bands of the era. Tracks such as 'Ride The Rocket', 'School Of Hard Knocks', 'Bangin' Off-A The Bricks' and the title track itself leave no stone unturned in the quest for the perfect hard rock anthem. Issued to universal acclaim, Helix's hard work paid off, especially in Europe where it shot straight to the #1 spot on the Swedish album charts. Elsewhere, the reception was equally as warm, allowing the band to continue their relentless touring schedule and driving home the message that Helix were one of the hottest tickets on the scene. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. The Kids Are All Shakin' 2. Deep Cuts The Knife 3. Ride The Rocket 4. Long Way To Heaven 5. House On Fire 6. Christine 7. Without You (Jasmine's Song) 8. School Of Hard Knocks 9. Don't Touch The Merchandise 10. Bangin' Off-A-The Bricks. Helix 'Wild In The Streets' CANDY132 / Canadian hard rock band Helix had been on the verge of breaking big with five previous albums already tucked under their belt. Signed to Capitol Records and benefitting from unrelenting promotion, the band toured the world establishing themselves not only in America and Canada but also in Europe, a territory that embraced the band as if they were their very own. 'Wild In The Streets' was the band's fourth, and final, album for Capitol. It was a record of familiar components; big hooks, teeth rattling drum 'n' bass, razor sharp guitar riffs and shredding solos all locked into a brace of tunes so catchy they would easily shame the likes of Kiss and Def Leppard. Of the ten tracks on offer three were contributed by class outside sources, namely Nazareth ('Dream On'), FM ('Never Gonna Stop The Rock') and Joe Elliott ('She's Too Tough') all helping to confirm that Helix were still operating at the top of their game. The sound here is of a band getting back to their roots cultivating a far more aggressive in-your-face attitude. Produced partly by Neil Kernon (Autograph, Dokken) but mainly by Mike Stone (Whitesnake, Journey) and recorded at Richard Branson's Manor Studios in rural Oxfordshire, the album goes someway to reaffirming both their party-hardy roots and their ability to entertain on a spectacular level. It might have been their final major label album but they certainly went out with a bang." 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Wild In The Streets 2. Never Gonna Stop The Rock 3. Dream On 4. What Ya Bringin' To The Party 5. High Voltage Kicks 6. Give 'Em Hell 7. Shot Full Of Love 8. Love Hungry Eyes 9. She's Too Tough 10. Kiss It Goodbye.   xx ROBERT FLEISCHMAN INTRODUCES THE SKY: Los Angeles, CA - The self-titled debut release from The Sky will be available everywhere November 1st on Skyzilla Music. Founded in 2010 by veteran rock vocalist/songwriter Robert Fleischman (Journey/Vinnie Vincent Invasion), The Sky offers music fans a return to handmade, song-driven rock & roll at its very best. Based in Richmond, Virginia, The Sky features Stephan LaJaunie (guitars); Robert Fleischman (vocals); Andre LaBelle (drums); Steve Barber (bass guitar) and Brady Cole (guitars). Recorded at Montrose Recordings and Sound of Music studios and mixed at The Freezer, The Sky offers up blistering rock tracks fueled by high-octane guitars and rock solid drum grooves - all fronted by Fleischman's charismatic vocals. From the gritty opening chords of "All I Want" to powerful tracks like "The Real Beat" and "Dancing In My Head," The Sky delivers authentic, guitar-driven, flesh and blood rock and roll in the spirit of Tom Petty and The Rolling Stones. While Fleischman's songwriting prowess is highlighted on intensely beautiful tracks like "Sunshine" and "Revelation" which feature artful production and orchestration reminiscent of British rock bands like Oasis and Coldplay. The album's greatest strength beyond songwriting is found in the performances of the band that Fleischman has assembled. A perfect balance of both classic American Rock & Roll and Indie/Brit-Pop, The Sky's songs are sophisticated, modern and full of life - and embody the band's passion for the words and music they have created. It is refreshing to hear a band so capable translate their live sound to the studio, allowing the listener to feel as though the band was performing live right in front of them. Not relying on studio tricks to achieve their powerful sound, The Sky recorded the entire album live, in-studio to capture the organic feel and sound of the band's performance. "For this album, I wrote 20 songs and picked the ones with the most energy. Then we went into a recording studio and recorded the band live as a unit -- instead of piecing it all together," says Fleischman. "The record is very live sounding, which I really love. This is the first time I've been in a band with two guitars and it really rocks!" Probably best known as the lead singer of legendary rock band Journey between the albums Next and Infinity, Robert Fleischman also co-wrote one of the band's biggest hit songs, "Wheel In the Sky" (#57 on the Billboard Hot 100) as well as the tracks "Anytime" and "Winds of March." Fleischman also appeared with the Vinnie Vincent Invasion, featuring ex-Kiss guitarist Vinnie Vincent on their self-titled album and the unreleased album "Guitars From Hell." Fleischman is also known for scoring soundtracks for TV and film, notably That '70s Show and the pilot episode of SpongeBob Square Pants. Many of Fleischman's ambient scores can be found on his 2004 solo albums Kinetic Phenomena and Electric Raindrops. For additional information please visit: www.theskyofficial.com. WebLink: www.theskyofficial.com.   RUSS DWARF (OF KILLER DWARFS) APPEARS ON DECIBEL GEEK PODCAST: Russ Dwarf (of the Killer Dwarfs) appears on the current episode of the Decibel Geek Podcast. Topics of discussion for this audio interview include the recollection of Killer Dwarfs sharing a studio with Kiss, touring with (and pranking) Iron Maiden in England, and the show from Hell in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Russ also shares his thoughts on today's musical climate, the demystification of rock stars due to the YouTube boom, and the major impact that Alice Cooper had on his performance and sense of humor. Decibel Geek Podcast host Chris Czynszak stated, "Russ was a true pleasure to talk to. Co-host Aaron Camaro and I were immediately disarmed by his down-to-earth nature and willingness to bring his true feelings forth. His honesty combined with a well of experiences made for a very entertaining and thought-provoking conversation. We look forward to having him on the show again in the future." Russ Dwarf is currently touring acoustically throughout Canada and will finish the year in his current job as singer for Canadian legends, Moxy in London-Ontario at Downtown Kathy Brown's on December, 16th. The Decibel Geek Podcast was launched in June of 2011 by Chris Czynszak, a former rock journalist and webmaster. With co-host Aaron Camaro, the Decibel Geek Podcast is quickly earning a reputation as one of the go-to music commentary podcasts on the internet. All episodes are available on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, as well as the official Decibel Geek Podcast website. To access the Decibel Geek Podcast visit www.dbgeekshow.blogspot.com. For more information on Russ Dwarf visit: www.facebook.com/pages/Russ-DWaRf/199344570078031. IRON SAVIOR STREAMING NEW SONGS: Iron Savior: another new track posted online / new songs streaming daily on the AFM Facebook page / album release on November 18th! Iron Savior are preparing for the release of their new album The Landing, which will see the light of day on November 18th. The track "Starlight", a great melodic speed track, is now available for streaming. But it is just one of 11 amazing songs. Convince yourself by visiting the AFM Facebook page where we daily stream a different new track of "The Landing". JON STEVENS DELIVERS ALBUM 2 FOR 2011: Noiseworks vocalist Jon Stevens is back with yet another solo record - this time an all new Soul Covers album titled Testify! Available digitally or via CD at: getmusic.com.au/jonstevens. It follows the pop/rock release Changing Times, released mid-year. Both albums can also be bought as a combo package. Track Listing for Testify: 01. Testify (I Wonna) 02. Private Number 03. A Change Is Gonna Come 04. All Or Nothing 05. That's How Strong My Love Is 06. Fire 07. I Can't Stand Up For Falling Down 08. Freedom 09. Open To Ideas 10. You Can't Do Anything To Hurt Me 11. Be Like Me.   SACRED HEART OFFER FREE DOWNLOAD: Sacred Heart's album "Darkness Falls" (2009) has been made available for FREE download - though donations/contributions welcome. Please visit www.sacredheartband.com for full details & please check out their new release "Propaganda" (featuring "Nothing At All" and "Propaganda Part two"). And Sacred Heart will be performing a show, helping to raise monies for Help For Heroes on Sunday 27th November in Worcester, UK - links on the website - thank you for the support. EDDIE TRUNK ON BLACK SABBATH REUNION: "I'D RATHER HAVE NO ALBUM THAN A BAD ONE": Eddie Trunk is undoubtedly one of the most influential and respected hard rock and heavy metal historians in the genre. The radio personality and host of TV's That Metal Show recently added author to his credentials by publishing his first book, Eddie Trunk's Essential Hard Rock and Heavy Metal. In an interview with Examiner.com to promote the book, Trunk talked about the speculated Black Sabbath reunion, which the group is expected to announce at a press conference Friday in Los Angeles. "They had toyed with doing a new record for a long time, and they started one and it didn't come together or whatever - to me, do a new record if you really, really feel that you can make great new music," Trunk told writer Sterling Whitaker. "In the case of Sabbath, if they feel that they can make an album that's close to what they should sound like, and they still can get that magic, then great. But if not, and it's a struggle writing and recording, then just go out and do some live shows," he stated. "I'd rather have no album than a new album that's a bad album." "Same goes for Van Halen," Trunk continued. "I mean, this mythical . . . well, not mythical, I'm sure it exists, if and when it ever comes out. But there's this highly-speculated Van Halen album, and I want a new Van Halen album as much as anybody, but I want it to sound like Women and Children First. I don't want it to sound like 'Me Wise Magic' or that stuff they did when Roth first came back for that hits album. To me, that just dilutes the history." Read the entire interview here: www.examiner.com/classic-hard-rock-in-national/interview-with-eddie-trunk-of-that-metal-show. MRX UPDATE: MRX has been updated once again, this time including the following features: - Richard Marx - Rare Gems Vol 2 - Mr. Mister - Live At The Ritz NY, 23-02-1986 - Whitesnake - Budokan 1983 Plus the following new Video Clips: Chickenfoot - Big Foot, Emphatic - Bounce, Wolfpakk - Reptile's Kiss, Kimball Jamison - Cant Wait For Love, House of Lords - Someday When and Axel Rudi Pell - Hallelujah. MRX Membership Details. CD SHOWCASES ADDED: CD Showcase has been updated, with new album previews available for Beggars & Thieves & Royal Hunt (Frontiers Records, December 2 release), Mysticity (Inde, out now), Paradise Inc & Soul Seller (Avenue Of Allies Music, out now). Check them out. REVIEWS UPDATED: 3 new Reviews added to the site today - Chris Ousey, Talon and The Magnificent. Get your wallets out and read the reviews.

 

 

Thursday, November 10, 2011

MAD MAX SIGNS TO SPV: 25 years after the release of the legendary Night Of Passion album, German hard rock band Mad Max return with the original line-up and will release their new studio album Another Night Of Passion by the end of March 2012. Michael Voss (Lead Vocals, Lead Guitars), Jürgen Breforth (Rhythm Guitars), Roland Bergmann (Bass, Vocals) and Axel Kruse (Drums) captured the spirit of 1987 and deliver their masterpiece worldwide through SPV / Steamhammer. The album was recorded at the Kidroom-Studios which are owned by Michael Voss and where also albums from Michael Schenker, Vengeance and Gary Barden were produced. The cover artwork was designed by the Belgian artist Eric Philippe (Rhapsody, TNT) and the photos were shot by the famous German based photographer Martin Huch (Duesenberg Guitars). Olly Hahn (A&R Steamhammer): "I saw the band back in 1987 where they supported Stryper and they blew me away. "Night Of Passion" is a hard rock gem and I´m sure that also "Another Night Of Passion" will not disappoint any fan who likes classic melodic hard rock." Jürgen Breforth (Guitarist Mad Max): "Exactly 27 years ago we were close to sign a deal with SPV/Steamhammer and I´m totally glad that we could fix this now in 2011. With SPV on our side, the new studio album and the original line-up we are ready to burn the stage again!" And the band will prove that in April/May 2012 because they are confirmed as the special guest on the Axel Rudi Pell Tour. Mad Max released 9 studio albums since 1982 and toured through whole Europe with bands like Uriah Heep, Stryper, Yngwie Malmsteen and Pretty Maids. Highlight of their career was the special guest slot on the sold out Deep Purple/Alice Cooper tour in 2006. They also played on many festivals for example two times at the prestigious "Rocklahoma Festival" in the USA as well as on the "Rock Of Ages Festival" and "Wacken Open Air" in Germany. Photo from left to right: Roland Bergmann (Mad Max), Axel Kruse (Mad Max), Olly Hahn (A&R Steamhammer), Michael Voss (Mad Max), Jürgen Breforth (Mad Max). WebLink: www.myspace.de/madmaxmusic / www.spv.de.   FnA RECORDS RELEASES ROXX GANG BOX SET BOXX OF ROXX: Three Disc CD/DVD Set Contains Unreleased Studio Tracks, Live Recordings, Videos And Photo Archives From The Legendary Band's Career Roxx Gang were easily the most underrated, misunderstood band of the late 80's and early 90's. If ever there was a band that should have attained superstardom it was Roxx Gang, Virgin Records first American hard rock signing. Unfairly lumped in with the whole hair band scene, Roxx Gang truly had the makings to become one of America 's greatest rock 'n' roll bands. And for one glorious moment... they were. Their cult classic first album Things You've Never Done Before was a rock 'n' roll tour de force that had about as much in common with the L. A. hair wimps as a hungry shark does to a bowl of goldfish. Their incendiary live shows are still talked about today by those lucky enough to have witnessed them. Now FnA Records proudly presents a tribute to this phenomenal band with the 3 disc set Boxx Of Roxx. Disc 1 is all rare and previously unreleased gems spanning the bands history from it's earliest studio recordings to it's fiery demise. Disc 2 is a never before heard bootleg of Roxx Gang live in Dallas, Texas from the Things You've Never Done Before US tour. Finally, Disc 3 contains all of Roxx Gangs video output from the MTV favorites "No Easy Way Out" and "Scratch My Back" to the uncensored, rated X  "Startrip" video. This release stands as a testament to the raw power and visual splendor of one of  America 's true unsung greats... Roxx Gang! Roxx Gang exploded on the national music scene in 1988 as a hybrid mixture of rock, blues and punk that virtually defied classification. Their demo album Love 'Em and Leave 'Em earned stellar reviews on both sides of the Atlantic, out selling Guns-N-Roses and Whitesnake (the biggest bands of the day) in their hometown, and earned Roxx Gang a spot on the Top Ten Heavy Metal Albums Of The Year in Tower Records' Pulse! Magazine. In a short space of time the Gang did a series of major label showcase gigs, garnered a huge international following, and were signed to Virgin Records. Their Virgin CD, Things You've Never Done Before, was released to great critical acclaim and coverage in the international rock and music press was extensive. The bands videos received airplay on MTV, they toured all over the world and Things You've Never Done Before went on to sell over 250,000 units. Boxx Of Roxx covers the whole Roxx Gang history from the first recordings with guitarist Eric Carell, who died in a mysterious accident, to demos from the bands last recording sessions. All of the bands videos are released here for the first time including a performance of "Red Rose" from an early club gig. The box set also contains a fifteen page booklet of never before released photos from frontman Kevin Steele's personal archive, liner notes from Kevin and a foreword from legendary UK author and music journalist Malcolm Dome (Kerrang!, Record Mirror). Order Boxx Of Roxx here: bit.ly/roxxgang. Roxx Gang social media sites:  www.myspace.com/roxxgang / www.facebook.com/pages/Roxx-Gang/184708331603412 / Watch Roxx Gang's Scratch My Back video here: youtu.be/6Zkah3mzAcA.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Vega frontman Nick Workman's Facebook update: "December 12tmarks the start of VEGA2! Same team as before with Johnny Greatwood twiddling his knobs. This is gonna be kiss of life x100 with big phat sounding songs. 14 songs being recorded from a cache of 40. Video blogs a go go, keeping you all up to date and maybe a few sneaky soundbites." Ian Hill (bassist and co-founder of Judas Priest) can be heard in an audio version an interview, talking on the band and their future as they embark on their farewell tour "Epitaph": www.randyfalsetta.com/#!audio-interviews. URIAH HEEP INTERVIEW ON RICH DAVENPORT'S ROCK SHOW THURSDAY NOVEMBER 10: Have you ever wondered what it would be like to join a band that's a bona fide rock institution? Uriah Heep drummer Russell Gilbrook found out when he joined the band in 2007, 38 years into their existence! And on Rich Davenport's Rock Show this week (Thursday 10th November, 7-8pm UK time, www.salfordcityradio.org/shows.php?id=577 then available on the Listen Again feature at the same link for 3 weeks) he'll be talking about what it's been like touring the world and recording new studio albums with Heep over the last 4 years, and what's in store for the future. The interview will also feature Russell's choice of a Heep classic (from the band's recent "Live In Armenia" cd) and a song from their recent studio album "Into The Wild". The show is also packed with killer cuts old and new from Rainbow, Thin Lizzy, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Grand Illusion, Morton, The Magnificent and Dragonland! UNSIGNED PHILLY BAND TO PLAY "SOLD OUT" EVENT WITH LIVENATION, SXSW, SKID ROW CONCERT AND MORE: Sinners Saints, a hard rock band based out of Philly, PA has made a name for themselves in the past three years. The band went down in history as being one of the final acts to ever grace the stage of the Legendary Spectrum (Home of the Philadelphia Flyers and Stallone's "Rocky"). The band has also performed shows with Sebastian Bach, Skid Row, Blue Oyster Cult, Molly Hatchett and many more as well as events at Lincoln Financial Field (Home of the Philadelphia Eagles), Pocono Raceway, Trocadero, Whiskey Tango, World Café Live, TLA and many more. 2012 is looking to be the bands biggest year yet and we're hoping to gain some media coverage to help spread the word. On January 5th the band will perform a Sold Out show with Steel Panther hosted by Preston and Steve of 93.3WMMR. Following the show the band is scheduled to play the World Café Live, the Millenium Music Conference in Harrisburg, PA, Three shows at the 2012 South By Southwest and upon coming home from SXSW the band will open for Skid Row for the second time. Also on the bill is Kix and Gary Cherone, this event will be hosted by Jacky Bam Bam of 93.3WMMR. Please check out our music and videos at www.SinnerSSaints.com and www.facebook.com/sinnerssaints. Also here is a live video of the band performing our newest single "Livin' It Up" www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIpZiPGte2o.

 

 

Wednesday, November 09, 2011

PREVIEW CHRIS CORNELL'S SONGBOOK: Grammy award-winning singer/songwriter Chris Cornell has joined forces with Billboard.com and iTunes to give fans their first chance to hear his upcoming live solo album, Songbook (UME), prior to its release. In a brand new iTunes initiative, Songbook will be released in 3 parts beginning with Songbook EP 1 (4 tracks) out now, and Songbook EP 2 (4 tracks) following on Tuesday, November 15th. On November 21st, the entire Songbook album will be available on iTunes. 24 hours prior to each EP's release, the songs will be streaming on Billboard.com. Full track listing is below. Chris Cornell is known for his extensive contribution to music encompassing his time with iconic bands Temple of the Dog, Audioslave and Soundgarden. The entirely acoustic album Songbook was recorded live on tour earlier this year and showcases the depth and breadth of Cornell's talents as both a singer and songwriter. It also features the never-before-released song, "Cleaning My Gun". "Cleaning My Gun" on Soundcloud: soundcloud.com/chriscornell/chris-cornell-cleaning-my-gun Songbook EP 1 track listing: 1."As Hope and Promise Fade" 2. "Scar On The Sky" 3. "I Am The Highway" 4. "Like A Stone" Songbook EP 2 track listing: 1. "Call Me A Dog" 2. "Ground Zero" 3. "Can't Change Me" 4. "Black Hole Sun" Songbook Track Listing In Full: 1. As Hope and Promise Fade 2. Scar On The Sky 3. Call Me A Dog 4. Ground Zero 5. Can't Change Me 6. I Am The Highway 7. Thank You (Led Zeppelin) 8. Cleaning My Gun 9. Wide Awake 10. Fell On Black Days 11. All Night Thing 12. Doesn't Remind Me 13. Like A Stone 14. Black Hole Sun 15. Imagine (John Lennon) 16. The Keeper. The concept of Songbook arose out of strong fan demand. Cornell wanted to honor fans' desire to see his work stripped down, as well as to thank them for their constant support during the 'Songbook' tour. He also used fan photography from that tour on the artwork for the album. "My fans were pretty vocal, Tweeting and posting online, asking me to record the shows and put them out. So this album as a whole came from that, and I think we created something that really captured my tour and what I was putting out there each night," said Cornell. Cornell is currently on the second run of his acoustic Songbook tour, which kicked off in Memphis, TN at Minglewood Hall. He will be playing theatre venues across the country, such as Carnegie Hall in New York City, Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco and the Orpheum in Los Angeles.   FREE MUSIC FROM INSIDE OUT: The sampler features 12 of InsideOut's best releases of 2011 including tracks from some of the label's flagship and new developing artists... Pain Of Salvation's "Road Salt Two" has been widely received and the band is starting a big Euro run supporting Opeth. Steve Hackett hasn't slowed down since being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame last year, and the new double CD "Beyond The Shrouded Horizon" shows that. Redemption's which features Nick Van Dyk along with Ray Alder (Fates Warning) have put out one of the best metal albums of the year with "This Mortal Coil" and 2012 will bring them to Atlanta to headline ProgPower in September. Leprous has made waves with their new album "Bilateral". The band has been known as Ihsahn's backing band, but as Leprous they are hitting the road to finish out the year with Amorphis in Europe. Jolly is bringing happiness to all rockers with "The Audio Guide To Happiness, Part One". They are touring the east coast this month and planning out "Part Two" for 2012. Devin Townsend Project just finished up an amazing US headlining run and is now in the UK where he'll perform Ki, Addicted, Deconstruction and Ghost over 4 nights in London! Access the sampler at: www.insideoutmusic.com/specials/freesampler/

 

 

Tuesday, November 08, 2011

SEBASTIAN BACH ANNOUNCES THREE SHOWS WITH GUNS N' ROSES: Sebastian Bach and his solo band will support Guns N' Roses on the following shows: Nov. 19 - Hartford, CT - Comcast Theatre Nov. 20 - Wilkes-Barre, PA - Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza Nov. 23 - Albany, NY - Times Union Center Bach's new album, Kicking & Screaming, sold 6,600 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 73 on The Billboard 200 chart. The singer's previous CD, Angel Down, opened with 6,400 units back in November 2007 to debut at No. 190. Released in September on Frontiers Records, "Kicking & Screaming" was produced by Bob Marlette (Black Sabbath, Shinedown, Atreyu, Filter) and features young virtuosic guitarist Nick Sterling and drum pro Bobby Jarzombek (Halford, Riot, Iced Earth). The follow-up to 2007's "Angel Down" was mastered at Precision Mastering in Los Angeles with Tom Baker. Bach stated about his new solo material, "This CD follows along the lines of 'Skid Row', 'Slave To The Grind', 'Subhuman Race' and 'Angel Down'. If you like rockin' guitar riffs, high-energy songs and performances, deadly drums of doom, and ear-shattering screams, we got your rock right here!" He also described the songs as "heavy, interesting, classic sounding, modern sounding, completely rock 'n' roll ­ just how we like it!" Royal Hunt: Third 'Show Me How To Live' Studio Webisode: www.youtube.com/watch?v=iO7Cm-mRRpo. SYMPHONY X CONFIRMED FOR SWEDEN ROCK FESTIVAL 6-9 JUNE 2012!: Since the early 90's, many a progressive metal band has tried to repeat the success of Dream Theater. There is no doubt as to who have been the most successful: Symphony X. The band was formed by guitarist Michael Romeo in 1994, released their debut the following year and got their break in 1997 with their third album "Divine wings of tragedy". As it turned out, this was only the beginning. Today, Symphony X are actually bigger than ever. Their two most recent albums, "Paradise lost" (2007) and the most recent release "Iconoclast" (2011) in particular, have broadened the band's fanbase most impressively. Then again, these are two of the very strongest progressive metal releases in recent years – imagine a darker, rougher Dream Theater with classical influences and Russell Allen's brilliant vocals as the icing on the cake. Tickets are available at our website: www.swedenrock.com. There you can also find more information about tickets, prices and accommodation. Around 70 bands will perform on our 5 stages next summer. The following ten have been confirmed so far: Mötley Crüe, Blue Öyster Cult, Dimmu Borgir, Symphony X, Edguy, Gamma Ray, Danko Jones, Pentagram, Bonafide, Hell. More info about the bands can be found on our website: www.swedenrock.com. UFO UK/IRELAND - TOUR 2012: British rock legends UFO announce a massive UK/Ireland-Tour for 2012. The band (Phil Mogg - vocals, Andy Parker - drums, Vinnie Moore - guitars, Paul Raymond - keyboards) is currently in the studio with producer Tommy Newton to record their new studio album which will be released on February 27th 2012 through SPV / Steamhammer. 15th March - Cambridge - The Junction 16th March - Edinburgh - HMV Picture House 17th March - Newcastle - 02 Academy 18th March - Leeds - 02 Academy 20th March - Dublin - Academy 21st March - Belfast - Spring & Airbrake 23rd March - Milton Keynes - The Stables 24th March - Tavistock - The Wharf 25th March - Bristol - 02 Academy 27th March - Nottingham - Rock City 28th March - Norwich - Waterfront 30th March - Manchester - HMV Ritz 31st March - Wolverhampton - Wulfrun Hall 1st April - Southampton - The Brook 3rd April - Brighton - Concorde 2 4th April - London - Forum WebLinks: www.ufo-music.info / www.spv.de. NIGHTWISH – NEW IMAGINAERUM TRAILER ONLINE, ANNOUNCE FAN CHAT & VIDEO CLIP!: 2011-11-04 04:00 - Nightwish, Finnish masters of symphonic dark metal, just released another trailer for the bands highly anticipated new masterpiece Imaginaerum which is going to be released December 2, 2011. The trailer is mainly about the pre-listening session which was held at the Nuclear Blast headquarters in Germany in early September and also features various statements from international media. Check out the trailer at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6btD06LlLE. For all of you who want a direct statement from the band, bass player Marko Hietala will take part in an exclusive online fan chat on November 11, 2011. Everyone owning a Facebook or Twitter account may login at www.nuclearblast.de/streamingroom to ask Marko your personal questions about Nightwish and Imaginaerum. The chat will take place from 7pm – 8pm CET. Furthermore, the band announced the official premiere of the video clip for the first single Storytime: Wednesday, November 9! Keep your eyes open! "4 AT 40": JIMMY PAGE AND ROBERT PLANT 'INTHESTUDIO' FOR LED ZEPPELIN IV: Dallas, TX- Nov 8, 2011. North American syndicated Rock radio show InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the 40th anniversary of one of Rock's timeless classics Led Zeppelin IV. In a matter of four short years, Led Zeppelin had delivered four ground-breaking albums each destined to top the other. Widely considered a hard rock, heavy metal band by many, Zeppelin would astonish everyone by creating one of hard rock's first epic ballads, the most played record in rock radio history, "Stairway To Heaven". Jimmy Page shares with host Redbeard the reaction the song got, even before Zeppelin had released it. "We were out touring and that album (Zep IV) hadn't come out and we played "Stairway" in the Forum (Los Angeles) and we got a standing ovation." Jimmy Page and Robert Plant reveal In The Studio why Led Zeppelin IV is the thirdhighest seller in music history. "When we started the band...I wanted to make music that people would respect; your fellow musicians, like Jeff (Beck) and Eric (Clapton) and people like that," remarks Page. Robert Plant remembers, "We did whatever we wanted to do and said, 'look, for us we have to just weave around wherever it was most appropriate, with amplifiers, without, doesn't matter, in the desert, on top a Welsh mountain wherever it was…' which could be indicative and could show what we were all about." InTheStudio can be heard on over 50 radio stations across North America. Led Zeppelin- Led Zeppelin IV/ InTheStudio program will air this weekend. To Stream it online, visit: www.inthestudio.net/this-week-in-the-studio/led-zeppelin-4. JEREMEY FREDERICK ANNOUNCES CD DATE: Singer/songwriter Jeremey Frederick is proud to announce today that the final cover art and track listing has been released for the upcoming CD, Every Little Thing. The release schedule will see the digital download of Every Little Thing available on iTunes and Amazon.com on Tuesday, December 20. The physical CD will be released to CDBaby and Amazon on Tuesday, January 17, 2012. This will allow for any delays encountered during the holiday season for the CD duplicators. The final track listing now includes a cover of Tears For Fears' 1993 hit, "Goodnight Song." The video for "Goodnight Song" (demo version) can now be seen on YouTube, and has been released to Class X Radio as well. The final track listing is as follows: Can't You See He's Gone/Every Little Thing/I Think I Know/Lotus/Stay/What Can I Do/Hoping For You/Goodnight Song/Prelude (Jeremiah 1:5)/This Is Your Life. Jeremey Frederick performs over 150 shows yearly with the nationally touring tribute act Frontiers. He is a member of ASCAP and President of Our Quinnessential Music Group, an independent music publishing company. For more information, please visit www.jeremeyfrederick.com or www.facebook.com/JeremeyMusic.   PHIL SOUSSAN'S SHOT IN THE DARK: Phil Soussan says: "I am pleased to announce the official release of my recording of the hit song I wrote for Ozzy Osbourne, Shot in the Dark. Please may I ask you to purchase a copy? It is available from iTunes at the following link for only 99¢: itunes.apple.com/us/album/shot-in-the-dark-single/id476575006. How about a free copy? - I have announced that anyone now purchasing a hard copy of my Album CD "No Protection" from my website will receive a free MP3 download of the song! I am just starting to schedule gigs for the new band and will be posting those on my website as they become confirmed; the band is finally together and sounds really amazing! On other news I shall be teaching at this year's Rock'n'Roll Fantasy Camp that starts this Thursday featuring Paul Stanley. If you are an attendee I can't wait to see you there!" WebLinks: www.facebook.com/philsoussan / www.philsoussan.com.   NEW LANCE KING ALBUM STREAMING IN IT'S ENTIRETY: Lance King is world renowned in the underground as a melodic metal vocalist, singing on over 25 worldwide releases over the last 21 years. This fact is impressive in itself, but what is truly special about Lance is his ability to morph his voice to fit any mood and intensity of a song, he's proved this over the years by adding a very "special something" to every album he has been a part of. AOL Music is giving fans a first chance to listen to Lance's new album, A Moment In Chiros, in its entirety as part of the AOL Music Full CD Listening Party series. Get a first listen here. The album will be available on November 11. The album's concept is based on the 11:11 time prompt phenomena happening to over 75 million people around the world, Lance is one of these people, and has dived in deep to find more about what it's all about. This album is one man's journey as a seeker of truth looking for answers to the world's greatest mysteries. Lance has chosen Human Trafficking (sex slavery), one of the fastest growing criminal activities worldwide as the charitable cause he would like to champion, profits from this album will go to efforts to abolish this slave trade worldwide through an organization called Not For Sale! Boasting great creativity and performances by these fine musicians: Jacob Hansen (Beyond Twilight, Invocator, Anubis Gate), Kim Olesen (Anubis Gate), Michael Harris (Darkology, Thought Chamber), Tore St Moren (Jorn), Fred Colombo (Spheric Universe Experience), Markus Sigfridsson (Darkwater, Harmony), Kevin Codfert (Agagio), Michael Hansen And Shane Dhiman (Pnonomik), Malek Ben Arbia (Myrath) And Morten Gade Sørensen (Pyramaze, Wuthering Heights), Elyes Bouchoucha, Malek Ben Arbia, Anis Jouini (Myrath) And Mistheria (Bruce Dickinson). Produced by: Kim Olesen (Anubis Gate) and Jacob Hansen (Volbeat, Heathen, Tyr, Amaranthe, Communic, Mercenary, etc.). A SINFUL CHRISTMAS FROM VEGAS ROCKERS: On Nov 25th, Las Vegas' favorite band Sin City Sinners will release their third CD "A Sinners Christmas" The CD includes guest appearances by George Lynch, Ron Keel, Slim Jim Phantom (The Stray Cats) Jizzy Pearl (Ratt, Love/Hate) Pete Loran (Trixter) Louie Merlino (Beggars & Thieves) Frank Dimino (Angel) & Sammy Serious (The Zeros). A portion of the sales from "A Sinners Christmas" will be donated to the Toys for Tots Las Vegas chapter, who help to make sure less fortunate children have toys for Christmas. www.toysfortots.org. The band will celebrate the release on Nov 25th with a Las Vegas party & toy drive at Club Madrid (inside Sunset Station Casino) Admission is FREE, but The Sinners encourage everyone who is able to bring a new unwrapped toy to be collected by the Marines for Toys For Tots. "A Sinners Christmas" was recorded, mixed & mastered @ Hit Track Studios in Las Vegas and Produced by Brent Muscat & Tom Parham, and Executive Produced by Jason Green The Track listing is as follows: 1. We Three Kings (feat George Lynch & Todd Kerns) 2.Winter Wonderland (feat Frank Dimino of Angel) 3. Run Rudolph Run (feat Brent Muscat) 4. Rocking around the Christmas tree (feat Todd Kerns) 5. O Holy Night (feat Jizzy Pearl) 6. I saw mommy kissing Santa Claus (feat Louie Merlino of Beggars & Thieves) 7. Jingle Bell Rock (feat Slim Jim Phantom & Michael Ellis) 8. Silent Night (feat Ron Keel) 9. I'll be home for Christmas (feat Pete Loran of Trixter) 10. We Wish you a Sinners Christmas (feat Todd Kerns & Louie Merlino). About Sin City Sinners: Sin City Sinners are composed of core members Todd Kerns (Slash, Age of Electric) Brent Muscat (Faster Pussycat) Dr. Michael Ellis & Rob Cournoyer (Raging Slab). In 2010 The Sinners released two CDs of original music, Exile On Fremont Street and Broken Record. In 2011 they were voted "Best In Vegas" in the prestigious Las Vegas Review Journals Reader's Poll, and their music video 'Goin' To Vegas' received the 32nd Annual Telly Award. For more visit thesincitysinners.com.   MORE CHRISTMAS: From Gibson.com: "Scott Weiland is in the Christmas spirit with his recently released LP of holiday songs (The Most Wonderful Time of the Year) and now, Zakk Wylde and Black Label Society also are delving into the world of holiday music. Glorious Christmas Songs That Will Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good, a new EP of acoustic, instrumental Christmas traditional performed by Black Label Society, is available now on iTunes). Songs on the release include, "I'll Be Home for Christmas," "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem" and "It's a Wonderful World." Black Label Society also have been selected as the opening act for Guns N' Roses on select dates of GN'R's winter arena tour. Will Black Label play any Christmas songs on the trek? It's a good guess."   MELODIC BRIEFS: With a new line-up in place Paul Sabu produced English rockers Scream Arena return screaming to the live arena opening for The Quireboys on November 24th at The Duchess, Stonebow, York. Tickets available from the Duchess box-office or via Scream Arena (contact Dave Tedder at Headfirst Entertainment dave@headfirstentertainment.com). Joe Vana/Mecca interview on RockEyez: www.rockeyez.com/interviews/2011-11-joe-vanna/int-2011-11-bmr-joe-vana-mecca.html. DJ Ashba (Sixx Am/Guns N Roses) granted RockEyez.com the only interview when he recently visited Brazil. You can read the interview at: www.rockeyez.com. A new interview with long-time Trans-Siberian Orchestra vocalist Tommy Farese was just posted: www.associatedcontent.com/article/9109983/an_interview_with_tommy_farese_the.html?cat=33. UK ROCKERS FURYON SIGN TO ROCK N GROWL PR: UK's best new metal band Furyon, feat. vocalist Matt Mitchell, guitarist Chris Green, guitarist Pat Heath, bass guitarist Alex "Nickel" Bowen and drummer Lee Farmery have signed a management deal with Germany's Rock N Growl! Rock N Growl & Furyon are currently shopping the recording Gravitas produced by Rick Beato (Shinedown, Fozzy), securing a record deal very soon, with the insight of taking their music to the masses. See you out there! Imagine the darkness of Alice In Chains, uplifting anthems of Alter Bridge and classic swagger of Iron Whitesnake in the mix and you have a helping of Furyon's sonic feast. (musicradar) Furyon "Disappear Again" video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8biW3IBqx8 Gravitas is a stunning debut album. From start to finish the intensity is relentless, leaving you both gasping for breath and asking for more! If you love your metal full of catchy riffs, powerful vocals and guitar solos that are a match for anyone out there, then "Gravitas" is a must buy for you! (thisisnotascene) The songs appear on the "Gravitas" album are: 1. Disappear Again, 2. Stand Like Stone, 3. Souvenirs, 4. Don't Follow, 5. New Way of Living, 6. Voodoo Me, 7. Fear Alone, 8. Wasted on You, 9. Our Peace Someday, 10. Desert Suicide. Buy it directly from the band: furyon.bigcartel.com. WebLinks: www.furyon.net / www.facebook.com/pages/Furyon/114816935285870 / www.rockngrowl.com/furyon. NEW ALBUM "LIFE'S BLOOD" IN STORES 11-11-11 ON PURE STEEL RECORDS: Fancy on melodic Power Metal from the United States? Then you will be fan of Widow! Founded in 2000 in North Carolina, the band has released three albums: "Midnight Strikes" (2003), "On Fire" (2005) and "Nightlife" (2007). Their new work "Life's Blood" is the first Widow album, which will be released through Pure Steel Records. Pure Steel Records and Widow have just unveiled a special promotional trailer for the new album. Check it out here: youtu.be/Cy5zqDqIFns. On the twelve tracks you'll get a great mixture of fresh heaviness and enthralling melodies. The inclined listener will hit more than a smell of NWoBHM, of course together with some well-known North American Bands, but never forgetting the European origins. Sometimes the guys pound through sublime mid-tempo areas ("Embrace It" and "Behind The Light"), a bit faster they get by twin-guitar-orgies such as "Take Hold Of The Night", "The Burning Ones" or the last song "The One I Know". Of course they also offer some calm parts, with the songs "Another Fallen Angel" and "In Dreams". The production is powerful yet traditional, so you can expect a bold sound, without faceless sterile production. The clear, very outstanding vocals, which are sometimes a bit emotional too, fits perfect to the majestic twin-guitar-leads, so no follower of this genre will be disappointed! In short: Widow is North American Power Metal. Tracklisting: 1. Lady Twilight 2. In Dreams 3. Take Hold of the Night 4. Another Fallen Angel 5. Embrace it 6. Behind the Light 7. The Burning Ones 8. Live Beyond 9 Judgment Day 10. I Scream for Ice Queen 11. Remembering 12. The one I know. LabelLink: www.intromental.com. ROCKPAGES TALKS TO KELLY HANSEN: Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine did an exclusive interview with Kelly Hansen. Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr: You had the most difficult task to replace a great singer like Lou Gramm yet everybody embraced you right from the beginning and you had won even the most reserved fan. Were you anxious or afraid of how the whole thing would work for you and how would fans react to your voice and overall presence? Kelly Hansen: Well, first of all not everybody loves me (laughs)! But…yes…many people have said wonderful things about my voice and my stage performance. I think that everybody understands that I am not trying to be Lou. Like many other bands that the singer left, the next one is doing his best. For example when David Lee Roth left from Van Halen, Sammy Hagar did a hell of a job. It's the same case here…I am not trying to copy Lou although I firmly believe that I must sing the songs with the melody and in the way they were initially written. I take my job seriously and I hope fans understand that. I try every single night to do the best for the fans. When you do that, people realize it and that's the biggest part of being accepted by them. Rockpages.gr: I think that it's obvious that you're not trying to imitate Lou because Lou was one of a kind and I believe that you are one of a kind. Kelly Hansen: Thank you! In the beginning…in 2005, Mick and I did some discussions…I told him that as a fan of the band, If I was going to a Foreigner concert, I would want to hear the songs as I learned them from the radio or the albums. Too many artists want to change the songs so much that it's not the same anymore…maybe, they are bored or they want to show how capable they are. Mick agreed with that. After all, these are great melodies and great lyrics and it's not my job to change them whatsoever. Read The Full Interview On: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=6442&type=1&lang=EN.

 

 

Monday, November 07, 2011

VAN HALEN - AS THE WORLD TURNS...AND TURNS...AND TURNS...: There really isn't anything much in the way of news to report, but Van Halen fans might get a glimpse of the band at the November 30 Grammy Nominations Concert, broadcast from LA. Rumor (and the odd not too subtle Grammy tweet) would suggest the band will turn up to announce they will perform at the actual Grammy Awards in February....and announce details of the pending tour and album. They will NOT be performing on the Nominations Show (providing they show up). Just for the record - other titbits I have heard include the band filming a video for the album's first single in LA a few weekends back; rumor of the possible inclusion of a cover tune on the new album (I was told DLR demo'd several in NYC to send to the band to select from). CHICKENFOOT OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT: The set list for Chickenfoot's first show in San Francisco November 1 at The Warfield was as follows: 01 - Lighten Up 6:20; 02 - Alright Alright 6:41; 03 - Big Foot 4:01; 04 - Sexy Little Thing 5:11; 05 - Soap On A Rope 8:12; 06 - Last Temptation 4:14; 07 - Up Next 4:57; 08 - My Kinda Girl 5:03; 09 - Down The Drain 10:36; 10 - Come Closer 4:20; 11 - Three and a Half Letters 6:07; 12 - Something Going Wrong 6:11; 13 - Turnin' Left 9:16; 14 - Future In The Past 12:11; Encore: 15 - Oh Yeah 6:56; 16 - Foxy Lady (Hendrix Cover) 6:56. Great set list! KIP WINGER GOES SYMPHONIC: Kip Winger, lead singer of the rock band Winger, is an accomplished, award nominated ballet composer. For his next symphonic piece, Conversations With Nijinsky, he wants to record exclusively with students of Oberlin College. Winger has arranged with the Dean of the Music Conservatory to hire the school's orchestra. They will practice and record his composition for an upcoming CD. The project will be filmed. The fans can contribute to fund this project by donating money through Kickstarter. This will service to hire approx. 60 students, conductor Scott Yoo, and a sound engineer. It will also subsidize travel and accommodations for a small documentary crew. Winger said: "Conversations with Nijinsky is my imaginary musical dialogue with a great historical figure. Universally cited as one of the greatest male dancers of the 20th century, Vaslav Nijinsky was celebrated for his virtuosity, for the depth and intensity of his characterizations, and his legendary gravity-defying leaps. I spent the winter of 2010 reading several books on Nijinsky, composing sketches of music I heard while reading his story. In 1909, Sergei Diaghilev created what became the Ballet Russes in Paris, and commissioned Nijinsky to choreograph numerous works that extended the limits of traditional ballet. But in 1919, at the age of 29, Nijinsky's career suddenly ended when he suffered a nervous breakdown and was diagnosed with schizophrenia. He spent the rest of his life in and out of psychiatric hospitals and asylums. During the last days of World War II, Nijinsky danced in public for the last time. He encountered a group of Russian soldiers outside of Vienna, playing traditional folk tunes. Inspired by the music and his reunion with his countrymen, he leapt into an exquisite dance, astounding the men with the complexity and grace of his figures. The experience restored some of Nijinsky's capacity for communication, after having maintained long periods of silence. Particularly when I read Nijinsky's Diaries, I felt both disoriented and inspired. The Diaries reminded me that creating art can feel like a dangerous, psychologically unstable enterprise: long stretches of nonsensical meandering may be followed by small moments of searing lucidity. My reading inspired me to imagine all the ways Nijinsky would have fulfilled his artistic expression through dance had he not had his illness. I conceived of my new work as the accompaniment to the "unseen" dances of Nijinsky." All info about the project and about how you can be involved with donations can be found here: www.kickstarter.com/projects/2055747091/c-f-kip-winger-to-record-new-ballet-at-oberlin-col. FRONTIERS ON THE TUBE: The latest Frontiers Records YouTube spot can be viewed below - featuring the label's November releases (out now).   NEW STRANGEWAYS ALBUM "AGE OF REASON" - OUT DECEMBER 12: British melodic rock outfit Strangeways have decided to go independent for their next studio release, due December and following quick on the heels of their most recent release Perfect World. States the band: "December 12th 2011 sees the release of Strangeways 8th studio album Age Of Reason. Formed in the early 80's, Strangeways have been around the block a time or two. Crooked managers, departing singers and a somewhat hostile business have conspired to keep them one of the UK's best kept secrets. Even so, 8 studio albums, 1 greatest hits and 1 live album later and they have received much acclaim from fans and the rock press and as if to prove the point, they are still around. Having been support act with the likes of Bryan Adams, The Kinks, Meatloaf, Europe, Glenn Hughes, The Hellecasters, Gino Washington and many more, Strangeways have performed successfully to a varied audience. Reunited in 2010 with American singer Terry Brock and now with the return of bassist David Stewart, Age Of Reason is promising to be a classic Strangeways affair. Always shrugging off any attempt to pigeon hole them, with influences as varied as Prince, Chilli Peppers, The Tubes, Miles Davis, Hank Williams, Journey, Thin Lizzy, John Prine, Steve Earl, Frank Zappa etc, Strangeways have pushed their musical boundaries to mixed reviews but have always remained true to themselves and their roots in rock music. After a brief flirtation with the business again for their comeback album "Perfect World" Strangeways have again decided to release Age Of Reason on their own Dangerous Dog Records label and are looking forward to promoting it live in early 2012. Check them out, you may be surprised. WebLink (w/Audio Samples): www.reverbnation.com/strangerways. AIRRACE TO DISBAND AGAIN / LAST AUTUMN'S DREAM BACK AGAIN / BRIAN HOWE SAYS GOODBYE RECORDING: Taken from Airrace's Laurie Mansworth's Facebook page: "Due to the growing popularity of The Treatment and my commitment to the band, the up and coming Airrace tour will be my last. Keith and myself have decided that our commitments outside of Airrace are just to overwhelming and we have both found it difficult to keep the Airrace flag flying, so we have decided that this is great way to go out. Thank you to all the fans that have sent me great messages over the years, and I hope you enjoy the two albums we have left behind us. Hope to see as many of you as possible at the shows." Last Autumn's Dream will release their latest studio album Nine Lives, initially in Japan on December 14. Vocalist Brian Howe is reportedly finalizing a new EP for release, which according to him will mark his retirement from being a recording artist. His frustration at the industry in 2011 is apparently behind the decision. Danny Vaughn of Tyketto interview at: www.sleazeroxx.com/interviews/dannyvaughn.shtml: "It's a double edged sword, the 'Don't Come Easy' thing, because there will always be some people who, if you try to remake that exact feel, exact vibe and write songs just like those songs, will say 'they're just trying to do what they did and make it sell, they've got nothing new and it's the same stuff regurgitated'. If you go out and do something totally different then some people will complain that 'it's nothing like 'Don't Come Easy', what do these guys think they are doing?' So I guarantee there is going to be somebody unhappy." ARFM ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE SOME ADDITIONS AND CHANGES TO THE WEEKLY LINE-UP: ARfm are pleased to announce some additions and changes to the weekly line up: Carl Dixon (Coney Hatch, The Guess Who, April Wine) joins us on a Monday evening to host a new show called "Rock Garden". Carl, who has been a guest on the station a number of times, met the ARfm team at Firefest 2011 and was impressed enough to offer his services upon his return to his homeland. Station Manager, Steve Price said "It's great to have someone as talented as Carl on the team albeit rather strange as Coney are amongst my all time favourite bands." Wednesday evenings will see the new voice of Dawn Nicholls with a 3 hour show from 9pm called "Heelz Of Steel". Dawn is an experienced presenter with a musical heritage and she was with the ARfm team at Firefest when she stepped in as a guest presenter in the absence of Allee Martell who was unable to attend. Dawns show will be fully interactive via Facebook and email. Finally, following the success of Paul Nicholls "Live And Loud" on Tuesday evenings ARfm has decided to increase the length of the show from 2 to 3 hours. Paul can now be heard from 9pm. All changes take effect w/c Monday 14th November 2011. For further information contact ARfm: studio@arfm.co.uk. BLACK SABBATH TO ANNOUNCE NEW BUSINESS: Black Sabbath will announce details of their reunion album and tour this Friday US time. Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi will appear on this week's edition of Caffeine Bomb. Make sure you tune in at 7:00 p.m. EST on Monday, November 7th, to 91.7 FM WHUS in Eastern Connecticut, also streaming at WHUS.org. Caffeine Bomb is hosted by Roger Lotring, an author and freelance music journalist whose work has appeared in the pages of Metal Hammer, Metal Edge, Classic Rock, Revolver, Shock Wave, Zero and Burn magazines, and at ESPN.com and CMJ.com. Roger is the co-author of "Full Metal Jackie Certified: The 50 Most Influential Heavy Metal Songs of the '80s and the True Stories Behind Their Lyrics". He is also the author of various CD liner notes, including the Motley Crue box set, "Music to Crash Your Car To, Volume 2." 91.7 WHUS is a commercial-free college and community-based radio station broadcasting from the University of Connecticut. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/CaffeineBomb.radio or WHUS.org. PROGPOWER EU ANNOUNCED VANDEN PLAS: After closing ProgPower Europe 2011 with an evening in memory of Mikko Laine, we start preparing the next edition. This is our first newsletter, feel free to spread the news. At the start of the 2011 festival fans were told that one of the headliners for 2012 would be Vanden Plas from Germany. The prog metal masters return after nine years away and will deliver a full headline show. Also announced at the festival were three more bands. First up is Sweden's Nightingale, again absent for nine years and fronted of course by Dan Swano. It is anticipated that this will be one of just a few shows next year. The other two have a long journey ahead as they both come from Australia. They are The Levitation Hex, drawn from the ashes of Alchemist with all that band's prog but heavier, with a debut album in 2012; and Fracture who are working on their second release. Another band can also be announced now and that is Empty Yard Experiment who are from Dubai and have just released a debut ep. A check of the website progpower.eu will show you links to loads of accommodation as well as a guide to travelling to Baarlo. It's really easy to get there! The first headliner speaks for itself plus already there are other bands that don't appear in Europe often, if at all. Tickets can be obtained from the same site and have been kept as affordable as possible. Booked so far - Vanden Plas, Nightingale, The Levitation Hex, Fracture and Empty Yard Experiment - just ten more to be named! EventLink: progpower.eu.

 

 

Friday, November 04, 2011

KING'S CALL SIGN WITH MAUSOLEUM RECORDS: King's Call sign with Mausoleum Records. The band is a melodic Hard Rock formation based in Germany – with an international line up, playing true metal with a today sound. King's Call is a band on a mission; featuring excellent songs played by outstanding musicians, fronted by one of the top vocalists of the genre - British singer Rick Chase. Line-up: Alex Garoufalidis: Guitars, Rick Chase: Vocals, Asek Bergemann: Drums. Track Listing: 01. All you can do 02. To the Limit 03. Caught in a Lie 04. Crank me up 05. King's Call 06. Never be alone 07. Shining 08. Crying Shame 09. Shaking 10. Destiny 11. Waiting for you 12. Love will find a Way. Recorded, produced, mixed & mastered by: Chris Tsangarides at the Ecology Studios, UK. More details, audio samples and purchase at: www.music-avenue.net / www.myspace.com/kingscallrock / www.mausoleumrecords.com.   ANDROMEDA: "PREEMPTIVE STRIKE" VIDEO POSTED ONLINE: The Swedish progressive metal band Andromeda have released the music video for the track "Preemptive Strike" online. "Preemptive Strike" is the opening track off the up-coming Andromeda album "Manifest Tyranny", which will be released on November 25th in Europe through Inner Wound Recordings and in North America on November 21st through Nightmare Records. "Preemptive Strike" was directed and produced by Patrik Ekeblom and Axel Persson for Holy Smoke Production. Click here to check out the video: youtu.be/uiSaakTpZ-o. "Manifest Tyranny" can be pre-ordered through the Inner Wound Store: www.innerwound.bigcartel.com. Check out Andromeda online: www.andromedaonline.com / www.facebook.com/pages/Andromeda/103701379666615. ANOTHER TRIBUTE TO JANI LANE: Dyer Knight of Wicked Sins composed and recorded a song as a tribute to Jani Lane. The song has been posted on the Wicked Sins web site and it's free to enjoy! Dyer wanted people to hear what he thought was a struggle with fame and the loss of fame. Dyer wrote the song from what he would consider to be Jani's perspective. The lyrics for the Jani Lane tribute song "All I Wanted (Song And Dance Man)" have been written out on the site so people can read the words and listen the song. Wicked Sins will be opening for Sebastian Bach Friday night November 4th 2011 @ Jaxx Nightclub in West Springfield, VA. wickedsins.tripod.com/jani.html. LA GUNS GUITARIST TRACII GUNS FEATURED IN NEW THE RIGHT TO ROCK PODCAST: TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest podcast (episode #127), featuring LA Guns Guitarist Tracii Guns. Tracii took time out of his busy schedule to discuss LA Guns' latest offering, Acoustic Gypsy Live. Tracii also discussed what it was like recording as a 7 piece as well as their current tour. Interview lasts approx. 25 min. Miss us yet? Join the boys as the discuss their time off for the summer and try to get back into the swing of things (while dreading the possible return of John). After some reminiscing, Genghis and Ragman tackle the topic of whether or not the old guys can still do it or not; which bands still got it, and which veteran bands should hang up the chaps. The guys discuss this and much, much more. Next, the boys catch up with LA Guns guitarist Tracii Guns for a fireside chat, who discusses the band's latest release Acoustic Gypsy Live as well as their line up. STRATOCRUISER - SEVENTH ANNUAL FREE HOLIDAY SONG NOW AVAILABLE: North Carolina rock band Stratocruiser today announced the release of their seventh annual Holiday song. The new tune, Anytown USA, is available at the following link: stratocruiser.bandcamp.com/track/anytown-usa. "We all love Christmas music, so seven years ago we decided to write and record a Christmas song to give away to our fans. That has turned into an annual tradition, culminating in some of our best music," said stratocruiser lead singer, Clay Howard. A limited edition CD compilation of all seven of stratocruiser's holiday songs will be available at the following link through December 31, 2011: www.createspace.com/1994150. MRX UPDATED: MRX the MelodicRock Members Only lounge has been updated once again - this time with the following new features: - Richard Marx - Rare Gems Volume 1 (24 Tracks - rare, bsides, live, alt. mix etc) - Joe Lynn Turner - Live 1994 (15 Tracks) - Kansas - Live 2004 (13 Tracks) And the following new Video Clips: Oliver Weers - Crawling Back Again, John Waite - If You Ever Get Lonely, Eden's Curse - Angels & Demons, Mr. Big - Smoke On the Water (Live Budokan), Slash - Beautiful Dangerous. To join the Members Lounge and help support MelodicRock.com - click here.

 

 

Thursday, November 03, 2011

NEW ROYAL HUNT SINGLE COMING NOVEMBER 14: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the worldwide release on November 14 of Hard Rain's Coming, the first single taken from the forthcoming - 11th - Royal Hunt studio album Show Me How To Live. The single will only be available digitally. It will also include an unreleased live version of Martial Arts recorded at the ProgPower Festival 2009 in the USA. The first sample from the new Royal Hunt can be listened to following this link: www.frontiers.it/m/uploads/audios/royal_hunt_-_hard_rain_s_coming_sample.mp3 Royal Hunt's new album presents the return of American singer DC Cooper in the line-up to continue the magic of Royal Hunt and goes back to the classic sound which put the band on the map in the first place, all the way back in 1991. Founded in Denmark in 1989 by keyboardist Andre Andersen, Royal Hunt has gone through numerous personal changes since their inception. Though certainly the two albums that they have released with American singer DC Cooper; have stood the test of time: "Moving Target" in 1995 and the subsequent concept album "Paradox" in 1997. In the beginning of 2011, Andre and DC got in touch once more to see if they could cooperate again, which resulted in a small reunion tour. It was a great success and consequently led to the mutual decision of DC re-joining the band. The new album Show Me How To Live brings back Royal Hunt at force 10 with an highly melodic sound and rich, lush arrangements and stellar production. With the amazing new line-up, the fans as well as the critics, are about to get a fresh taste of the powerful and rejuvenated Royal Hunt!   FASTWAY - THE MAKING OF "EAT DOG EAT": Fastway Eat Dog Eat is the first new studio album since 1990. Together with new vocalist Toby Jepson (Ex-Little Angels) Fast Eddie Clarke has written some of his strongest songs. Fastway recorded the making of "Eat Dog Eat" in the studio on video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTihBmMCmsI. Fastway and SPV recently launched "Leave The Light On" for streaming , the first song from the new album "Eat Dog Eat ": soundcloud.com/steamhammer-spv/fastway-leave-the-light-on. The album will be released in Germany on November 11 and in Europe on November 14. Tracklisting: 1. Deliver Me 4:41 2. Fade Out 4:05 3. Leave The Light On 3:55 4. Loving Fool 4:30 5. Dead And Gone 5:49 6. Sick As A Dog 3:44 7. Freedom Song 3:52 8. Do You Believe 4:04 9. Love I Need 4:37 10. On And On 3:53 Download Exclusive Track: 11. Only If You Want It 4:06. WebLinks: www.fastwayofficial.com / www.fasteddieclarke.com / www.tobyjepson.com / www.spv.de.   RIOT KINGS ANNOUNCE WORLDWIDE RELEASE OF SECOND ALBUM, YOU ONLY LIVE TWICE: Bridgeport, CT: Riot Kings are proud to announce the worldwide release of their second album, entitled You Only Live Twice on November 8. The album was recorded at Long Hill Recording in Shelton, CT with producer Paul Opalach. Some of the new track titles include "Blood Diamond," "Murder You." "Mock Suicide," "Public Enemy" and "Powertrip." Riot Kings have created a controversial new video for the first single, "Blood Diamond," which you can view on Youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHupP0JHgQk. Bassist Keith Sinnott, formerly of Tango Down, says of the new album, "The title You Only Live Twice was inspired by the James Bond film starring Sean Connery. The new album features fat, heavy grooves and killer hooks. I really feel that our songwriting skills are better than ever!" Riot Kings are planning a number of live dates to promote the new album, starting with a CD release party at Topside Cafe in Milford, Connecticut on November 12. Riot Kings will perform live, along with special musical guests, and their new CD will be available for purchase. To order You Only Live Twice, go to itunes.com or cdbaby.com. To contact Riot Kings, email riotkings@snet.net. Check out the Riot Kings on ReverbNation. www.reverbnation.com/riotkings.   VH1 CLASSIC AMPS UP FOR "NATIONAL METAL DAY" ON 11-11-11: New York, NY – As previously announced, VH1 Classic has proclaimed 11-11-11 as "National Metal Day" and will celebrate with a slew of exclusive metal programming, including three major metal premieres: Behind The Music Remastered at 9 p.m. ET/PT, the exclusive debut of Banger Films' ground-breaking documentary series, Metal Evolution, at 10 p.m. ET/PT and the ninth season premiere of a VH1 Classic original That Metal Show at 11 p.m. ET/PT. Behind The Music Remastered: Megadeth premieres Friday, November 11 at 9PM ET/PT They've been the champions of thrash metal for nearly thirty years, despite discord, addiction and infighting. Updated to the original episode are Dave Mustaine's crippling hand injury which threatens the band's survival, a painful law suit and more walk outs and throw outs of band members. Now they're in the Big Four and still aiming for the top spot, but even if Dave Mustaine is happy with the new line up he remains unhappy about their ranking in the top ten of heavy metal—still just behind Metallica. Metal Evolution Chapter 1: Pre-Metal premieres Friday, November 11 at 10PM ET/PT The premiere episode of Metal Evolution Chapter 1: Pre-Metal will focus on Pre-Metal, the earliest sounds of metal that can be heard in the music of Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Jimi Hendrix. Subsequent episodes of the series will explore genres ranging from British Heavy Metal to Glam Metal to Thrash Metal, and artists from Iron Maiden to KISS to Metallica and more. Metal Evolution is an 11-episode docu-series produced by Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn of Banger Films and is based on the ground-breaking Heavy Metal Family Tree. The Heavy Metal Family Tree is a 26 sub-genre genealogical chart which reveals the vast complex progeny of heavy metal – from Early Metal and Shock Rock to Thrash, from Progressive Metal to Grunge and Nu Metal. Using the chart as his road map, host/producer and metal head turned anthropologist Dunn, criss-crosses the globe exploring the vast history of heavy metal across its 40+ year history and beyond. After the premiere episode on National Metal Day, "Metal Evolution" will move to its regular time slot on Saturdays at 10 PM ET/PT, beginning Saturday, November 19 between new episodes of BTM: Remastered at 9PM ET/PT and That Metal Show at 11PM ET/PT. That Metal Show: Season Nine premieres Friday, November 11 at 11PM ET/PT The boys are back and there's gonna be some trouble! Eddie Trunk, Don Jamison and Jim Florentine are back in LA and bringing the heat with season nine of That Metal Show. An all-star line-up of iconic metal guests grace the stage this season including: Marilyn Manson, Slash, Sully Erna, Jesse James Dupree, Tracii Guns, Brian Johnson, Dave Mustaine and more! Season nine of That Metal Show will deliver the ever popular "Stump The Trunk" and "TMS TOP 5" segments. To warm up for the National Metal Day celebration, VH1 Classic has scheduled 11 days worth of legendary metal programming beginning Tuesday, November 1. Every night during the 11 days of metal, VH1 Classic will make an offering to the metal gods with a nightly concert at 11 PM ET/PT. Legends Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, Alice Cooper, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, Motley Crue, KISS, Ozzy Osbourne and Iron Maiden will be featured. Vh1 Classic will line up the highlights of its library of classic metal concerts on Tuesday, November 8, 2011 with a relentless line-up including: 6 pm ET/PT: Download Festival 2011 (featuring Def Leppard, Thin Lizzy, System of a Down, Alice Cooper, Linkin Park, Rob Zombie, Twisted Sister) 8 PM ET/PT: Sonisphere 2011 (featuring Slipknot, Motorhead, Anthrax, Megadeth, Slayer, Metallica, In Flames, Mastodon) 10 PM ET/PT: High Voltage 2011 (featuring Slash, Thin Lizzy, Queensryche, Dream Theater, Judas Priest, Black Country Communion) 11 PM ET/PT: MTV World Stage: KISS Of course, the metal story is not just concerts. On Wednesday, November 9, 2011, VH1 Classic will air a metal music video marathon with Metal Mania: The Greatest Metal Videos Ever A to Z from 11AM to 11PM ET/PT. By the time National Metal Day finally arrives on Friday, November 11, the line-up will be bolstered with features like The Decline of Western Civilization, Metal: A Headbanger's Journey, and, of course, This is Spinal Tap – the movie that taught metalheads everywhere to take it to 11.

 

 

Wednesday, November 02, 2011

WRATHCHILD RETURN FOR TAKKTWO: The God-fatherz of Glam, Wrathchild (UK) are releasing their long awaited fourth studio album Stakkattakktwo on Perris Records. "We are real excited that the album is going to be distributed worldwide and that all of our fanz will finally get to hear what we've been up to these last few years. We thought long and hard about who to do this record with but at the end of the day it was a no brainer – the guyz at Perris cut their teeth getting off on the same vibez that we we've been into from the start of the Wrathchild journey. Perris Records (USA) have distribution networks worldwide second to none and more importantly they truly worship at the altar of all that is Rokk'n'Roll!" Wrathchild are Gaz 'Psychowrath' Harris, Marc Angel, Eddie Star, Phil Wrathchild. Wrathchild was formed in 1980 in Evesham, England by Marc Angel and Phil "Wrathchild" Vokins. The group was an early band of the glam metal genre, starting off before other bands of the genre such as Mötley Crüe. In 1984, the band recorded and released their debut studio album, Stakk Attakk. It would spawn two singles; a cover version of the Gary Glitter classic "Doing Alright with the Boys" and "Trash Queen". The band released their second album, The Biz Suxx, in 1988. The album spawned a single, Nukklear Rokket, which had a promotional video that was produced by Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden. Bruce plays the protester in the video whilst the performance was filmed in the car park at his home in Chiswick. The band's third studio album, Delirium, was released shortly after in 1989. It featured Grim Reaper's Steve Grimmet on backing vocals. "Glam Godz - Stalkin' The Earth Tour" details to be announced.   AFM MUSIC ARTIST UPDATES: IRON MASK: Black As Death - Cover artwork unveiled / new song online! With "Black As Death" Iron Mask will release their fourth album on December 16th. The cover artwork has been made available now, as well as the new song Broken Hero. Hamburg-based Power Metal veterans Iron Savior give you some insight on the recordings of their new album The Landing, which will be released on November 18th. The studio clip for the new song The Savior is available now.   xx BEHIND STEEL PANTHER'S SCENES: Steel Panther has just unleashed their new album Balls Out. It's guaranteed to be full of rock anthems about women, booze, drugs, tight clothes and tighter riffs. The band is giving a behind the scenes look at the photo shoot they for their album with some commentary about what fans can expect from the new album: Part 1 - www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpETJJt3oPY&feature=related / Part 2 - www.youtube.com/watch?v=PB5zF43st2I&feature=related. LION MUSIC ARTIST UPDATES: Awake performed 'Closing the doors' live on The Saturday breakfast show on Affinity Radio, Cambridge. The track is available on the bands new album 'Forever More' out now. Live session video – www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2384403362334. Forever More promo page - www.lionmusic.com/cd/forevermore.htm. UK traditional metal outfit Vendetta have just delivered the masters for their third album. We are happy to report that the new album is another slice of metal awesomeness. Artwork is being finished up as this goes to press and we should have more preliminary info for you shortly. Expected release is first quarter of 2012. Lars Eric Mattsson is finishing up work on the third instalment of the Book Of Reflections project set for release in spring 2012. Lars describes the new material as "A neo-classical speed metal attack!". Full information coming soon. French metal outfit Venturia are currently mixing their third album now with Kevin Codfert (Adagio). Photos from the albums creation process can be seen at www.facebook.com/Venturia. INTRODUCING ALREADY GONE: Already Gone from the Midlands, UK formed in early 2008 and within weeks of rehearsals the guys already had their first gigs booked. Since then they have been gigging religiously for nearly three years, stunning crowds throughout the UK, from their home town of Stoke to venues in London, Manchester, Birmingham Liverpool, Leicester and Glasgow. There is no stopping these dedicated young musicians as they continue to take over the music scene one day at a time. They have played at such prestigious venues as The Indigo2 Arena (London) The Birmingham O2 Arena Mainstage, The Victoria Hall (Stoke), The Cavern Club (Liverpool) and The Manchester Academy. This year saw Already Gone reach the International final of The Surface Festival, beating 12,000 other bands to play at The London O2 Arena. Last Christmas they released a charity single for The Hope House Hospice, raising £400 just from their local area to help children with long term illnesses. Other achievements so far include working with The British Youth Film Academy in association with The Co-op, to shoot the... opening scenes for their movie "The Limelight. "On top of that they have done several photoshoots with the prestigious Ashford Daly Photography of Cheshire, including a 6am shoot on top of Crewe's tallest building, Rail House for their debut album, "One Good Reason" which is now available of iTunes. This band of young, ambitious musicians are destined for big things, and are now searching for the right person to take them to the next level. Watch out for Already Gone! "It's great to hear some classic rock music made in this century that you can kick your feet about to" (Total Rock Radio, London.) "Stoke's premier rock outfit" - The Box, Crewe (Venue) "They're like Kiss and Bon Jovi...but without the crap!!" - The Underground, Stoke (Venue) "The rock this band hits is southern rock with bad boy vocals and muscular guitars...... Already Gone demonstrate a degree of professionalism that suggests that they intend to torpedo greater things.......Already Gone show commendable poise and that very poise might prove to be their ticket out of the pubs and into the stadiums" - Bluesbunny Music Reviews, Glasgow. Already Gone's debut album One Good Reason is out now featuring the tracks: 1) Crybaby 2) What Dose It Take? 3) Stop, Drop, Rock 'N' Roll 4) Make My Day 5) Wash Away The Tears 6) Sweet Dreams Baby 7) Turn Away 8) Let Me Be Your Slave 9) Sweet Lady Jane 10) In Your Arms 11) One Good Reason 12) Girls I Used To Know 13) So Long Gone. One Good Reason can be downloaded from iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/album/one-good-reason/id463037062 or grab a hard copy of the album from the merch store at: www.alreadygone.co.uk/STORE.html.   ALICE COOPER GROUP DRUMMER NEAL SMITH TO UNLEASH 'KILLSMITH TWO': 10/31/2011 – Westport, CT - Hot on the heels of his induction into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame, legendary Alice Cooper Group drummer Neal Smith is preparing to unleash upon the world his most aggressive release to date – KillSmith Two; a mind blistering, head banging masterpiece in metal macabre. Neal Smith, who recently reunited with Alice Cooper and recorded several new tracks for Alice's 'Welcome 2 My Nightmare' (which also features fellow AC Group members Michael Bruce and Dennis Dunaway), promises his new CD will rock you to your very soul and then stomp on it! "I think it's the best writing I've ever done with industrial strength music," says Neal. "The fourth song on the 'K$2' CD is called 'Evil Voodoo Moon'. It is the song that's the mother of Alice's latest single called 'I'll Bite Your Face Off", featured on his great new CD 'Welcome 2 My Nightmare'. One of the main goals I had in mind while writing 'K$2' was to keep my lyrics radio friendly this time. My colorful vocabulary could make a drunken sailor blush. So I took it back a few notches for airplay, something I didn't do on my first KillSmith CD 'Sexual Savior' when I just let all hell break loose." Neal Smith is best known worldwide for his innovative drumming and outrageous stage antics with the original Alice Cooper Group. His solid drumming is the hallmark sound behind such classic 1970's Alice Cooper hits "School's Out", "I'm Eighteen", "Billion Dollar Babies" and "No More Mr. Nice Guy". Neal is also a prolific songwriter, who helped pen many of Cooper's best known songs. The Alice Cooper Group was the first band to introduce theatrics to the rock and roll stage, the group has sold over 25 million records worldwide. Neal has six gold and five platinum records to his credit, and has performed before millions on extensive grand World Tours. From the late 1970s to the present, Smith's trademark drums can be heard on several albums, including the Billion Dollar Babies, The Plasmatics, Buck Dharma, Deadringer, Bouchard, Dunaway and Smith, Cinematik and his most recent critically acclaimed solo project KillSmith CDs. KillSmith's debut CD 'Sexual Savior' released in 2008 garnered praise from fans and critics worldwide. And now with 'KillSmith Two', Neal takes his ferocious brand of rock and roll to another level! "In addition to crafting my lyrics for the radio, the new songs on 'K$2' have evolved with more defined choruses and themes," explains Neal. "Heavy industrial guitars are still the heart of the KillSmith sound along with my pounding drums." KillSmith features: Neal 'Kill' Smith (lead vocals, rhythm guitar, synthesizer, drums & percussion), Peter 'The Cat' Catucci (bass guitar & backing vocals), Doug Wahlberg (lead guitar), Kevin Franklin (lead guitar), Bryan Morrell (lead guitar) and Pete 'Keys' Hickey (keyboards). A forty year veteran in the music industry, Neal Smith's vast achievements have finally been recognized with his recent and prestigious induction into the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame. "I am happiest for the fans of the original Alice Cooper Band," says Neal. "As I said in my acceptance speech at our induction into the Hall of Fame, this was all about them and because of them. Without our faithful fans around the world, that night would never have happened. At the pinnacle of our success the only awards we ever received or cared about were in the shape of gold and platinum albums and that was only because of our fans. Even the established music business in the seventies shunned the Alice Cooper Band and never considered us for Grammys or any of the other music awards at the time. Living on the fringe of acceptability has always been the norm for me. Now I've been asked to become legitimate in the music world and that's a role I'm very uncomfortable with, but KillSmith keeps me on the fringe in my comfort zone." Possibly one of the most anticipated reunions of the decade in the rock world recently transpired with the surviving members of the original Alice Cooper group and producer Bob Ezrin recording together for the first time in 37 years! "Well it was fantastic to work with everyone again in the same room," says Neal. "Over the years I've seen Alice, Michael, Dennis and Bob many times all over the US and Canada. But it was in September 2010 when we were all finally together again in one location in a recording studio in New York City. In the studio we even set up a little memorial for Glen Buxton, it consisted of a Fender amp, a pack of cigarettes and a bottle of Seagram's VO whiskey. So GB was with us there in spirit. We were all laughing, having a blast with the same insane sense of humor that we've always had – it was a great time. But when we got down to business and recording machines were running, the ever present chemistry was still there and the magic started happening again. That was the first time that all five of us, Alice, Michael, Dennis, Bob and I had been in the recording studio together since the 'Billion Dollar Babies' album was recorded in 1972/73. I hope we do it again!" Plans to tour in support of the release of 'KillSmith Two' are currently in the works. "Along with Peter, Kevin, Doug and myself, we are currently in rehearsals working on a new KillSmith show right now. Any future show dates will be announced on my website," says Nea Neal Smith 'KillSmith Two' is available from cdbaby.com/cd/nealsmith3 / www.NealSmithRocks.com. REVIEWS UPDATED: Two new Reviews online today. Another masterpiece for 2011 - Mecca; and one from a little while back - Tora Tora. More reviews soon. Read these two reviews here.

 

 

Tuesday, November 01, 2011

TRILLIUM VIDEO PREMIERE: The official video clip for the song Cowards, from Trillium - taken from the album Alloy out on Frontiers Records. Release date: Europe - November 4 North America -- November 1.   JOURNEY REUNION UNLIKELY, SAYS STEVE PERRY: Following my Steve Perry interview posted Friday, the singer has also spoken to Associated Press to promote the release of Journey's new Greatest Hits 2 release. The following text comes from the AP Newswire, as picked up by Billboard and a dozen other outlets: "Perry, who rarely does detailed interviews, spoke to The Associated Press by phone last week, ahead of Tuesday's release of Journey's "Greatest Hits Vol. 2" and the remastered version of Perry's 1984 solo album, "Street Talk," which included the No. 1 hit "Oh Sherrie" and the ballad "Foolish Heart." The resurgence of Journey and the band's hit "Don't Stop Believin'" may have given fans hope of a reunion, but former lead singer Steve Perry says that's probably not going to happen. "It's like any emotional, committed relationship. At some point, they seem to all have a shelf life and bands are no exception," he said. "Life has moved us all on in different places in our lives. . They're doing what they're doing - they have been since '98. And I've been doing what I'm doing, which is living my life and having a personal life." His former band mates have continued on since Perry's departure 13 years ago, performing as Journey with a new lead singer, Arnel Pineda. Pineda sounds like Perry, who was once ranked by Rolling Stone magazine as No. 76 of the greatest 100 singers of all time. [MR Note: And what a crock that listing is...as if anyone pays any attention to Rolling Stone lists!!!] Perry doesn't dwell on the band's current lineup, saying that everyone has moved on, but said he relishes the songs he did with Journey that keep getting airplay. Thirty years after its release, Journey's most memorable hit - "Don't Stop Believin'" - manages to keep getting rediscovered in new contexts. The song, which Perry wrote with Journey keyboardist Jonathan Cain and guitarist Neil Schon, has shown up in the Broadway show "Rock of Ages" (which Perry said he hasn't seen), the cut-to-black finale of "The Sopranos" and the movie "Monster," for which Charlize Theron won an Oscar for best actress. Most recently, it appears in Brad Pitt's "Moneyball." But it has probably reached its youngest audience through the hit TV show "Glee," which has also featured other Journey hits "Faithfully" and the medley version of "Any Way You Want It/Lovin' Touchin' Squeezin.'" Perry said he's stunned that "Don't Stop Believin'" continues to resonate with so many people. "It's very shocking because now I'm getting it for 7-, 8-, 9-, 10-year-olds coming up to me, and they love that song and they've made it their song," said Perry, 62. "It's just amazing to me." He said that when he was first shown the pilot for "Glee," he wasn't sure if he wanted "Don't Stop Believin'" to be used. He said he and his former band members are careful to make sure Journey's songs are used to their standards: "There's been so many requests for silly food products over the years." Perry said he and Journey members don't speak directly to each other about authorizing the use of songs, or much about anything else, but instead work through representatives to reach agreement. In recent years, he says he's received offers to appear on "Glee" and to serve as a judge on "American Idol," where friend and former band mate Randy Jackson is a judge. But he's turned those and other offers down because, he explains, he's not a "front-camera guy." Lately, Perry's been dabbling in film editing and writing music for a possible solo album, a challenging process after years of being away from the music business. "I'm going to be recording sometime soon," said Perry. He said he's recorded three cover songs recently, but would only disclose that one was a Beatles tune and that he has played his new music for just a few friends privately. Perry said his signature voice, which stretches for high and long notes in many of his songs, is in good shape overall. At one point in the interview, telling a story about one of Journey's first tours, he broke into the Journey song "Feeling That Way." Physically, though, he's battled health issues. He had hip replacement surgery 13 years ago, and has struggled with a "pretty substantial amount of arthritis that's not comfortable." "I live on anti-inflammatories," Perry said, noting that he has had some arthritis-related surgeries over the years since he left Journey. Still, he says he's feeling good overall. He even left open the possibility of touring again - just not with Journey. "We have severely, emotionally gone our separate ways." And for note - my Steve Perry interview has racked up just on 9000 views since Friday! AXEL RUDI PELL NEW ALBUM "CIRCLE OF THE OATH" COMING IN MARCH 2012: The band is proud to announce that singer Johnny Gioeli, drummer Mike Terrana, keyboard player Ferdy Doernberg, bass player Volker Krawzak and guitarist Axel Rudi Pell will enter the studio in late November with Engineer and Co-Producer Charlie Bauerfeind, to record the next studio album, titled Circle Of The Oath. Axel Rudi Pell comments on this: "I´m more than excited ! I just finished the songwriting for all 10 songs including the compulsory intro and will concentrate on completing the lyrics in the next couple of days. This will be a hell of a record and you won´t be disappointed! It will have everything you expect from a true ARP record with all it´s magical moments and a few surprises...!" "Circle Of The Oath" will be released through SPV/Steamhammer in late March 2012, followed by the first leg of the tour: AXEL RUDI PELL Tour 2012 20.04. D-Hannover – Capitol 21.04. NL-Weert – De Bosuil 22.04. GB-London - Underworld 24.04. D-Langen – Neue Stadthalle Langen 25.04. D-Saarbrücken - Garage 27.04. D-Nürnberg – Hirsch 28.04. D-Kaufbeuren – All-Karthalle 29.04. CH-Pratteln – Z7 01.05. D-Erfurt – HsD 02.05. D-Berlin – Columbia Club 04.05. D-Bochum - Zeche 05.05. D-Bochum - Zeche Ticket-Hotline Germany: Metaltix +49-(0)4627/183838, www.metaltix.de Touragency: Continental Concerts. The current album The Ballads IV were released worldwide end of September and reached the charts in Germany at #29, in Switzerland at #53 and in Norway at #65. The band released a single and a video for the song "Hallelujah": www.youtube.com/user/spv#p/u/0/wKMP81DVLLk.   NEW RUSH ON TRACK FOR FIRST HALF OF 2012: Rolling Stone Online has a new interview up with Rush's Geddy Lee. Amongst other topics - the new album: "We're almost finished writing. We wound the machine back up about three weeks ago. After a sluggish start, we've had a very fruitful couple of weeks in terms of writing. I'm very pleased with the direction that the material has taken. And I think we have one or two more songs that we'd like to write, and then we'll start recording in earnest. Hopefully we'll have all of the recording done before Christmas. Then we'll mix it some time in the next year, and then get it out." Full interview at: www.rollingstone.com/music/news/rushs-geddy-lee-says-new-album-will-be-ready-by-early-2012-20111028. FM – INDISCREET 25TH ANNIVERSARY LIVE DATES & INTERVIEW: FM are pleased to announce three special live shows to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their début album Indiscreet. For the first time ever fans will be able to hear this classic album played live in its entirety plus many more songs from Britain's greatest AOR band. FM released Indiscreet on September 8th 1986 and the album went on to help define a genre with unforgettable songs such as "That Girl" and "Frozen Heart". Who would have thought back then that in 2010 Planet Rock Radio listeners would vote "Frozen Heart" one of the greatest AOR songs of all time? 25 years have passed but the songs from Indiscreet still hold a special place in everyone's hearts. The band say "So many fans have said this album is the soundtrack to their lives and for FM it started everything so we think it should be celebrated." Indiscreet 25th Anniversary live dates are - March 08 2012 Glasgow Cathouse March 09 2012 Manchester Academy 3 March 10 2012 London O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire On the band's website www.fmofficial.com a dedicated Indiscreet 25Live page has been created to celebrate the 25th anniversary. It is the place for fans to congregate for all the latest Indiscreet-related news and to share their memories. The page will feature regular competitions to win FM memorabilia, releases and merchandise such as the new range of celebratory Indiscreet 25Live T-shirts. Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine did an exclusive interview with Merv Goldsworthy of FM about the band's 25th anniversary of the classic "Indiscreet" album. Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr: As a listener and why not a fan of the band, from your perspective what's so special about "Indiscreet" that makes so many people connect with it? Merv Goldsworthy: We had a good time recording it out in Ibiza and finishing it up in London, maybe that came across on the record... who knows? People connect with albums for lots of different reasons. It makes us feel very proud to think we have become part of the soundtrack of someone's life. Rockpages.gr: How did it feel to be starting the recordings in an exotic place like Ibiza and then finishing the album in the moody –yet probably inspiring- area of North London? Merv Goldsworthy: We didn't get much done in Ibiza – too many distractions. Not much else to do but work in North London so at least we got the album finished. If we would have carried on recording in Ibiza we'd still be there now!!! Read The Full Interview On: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=6379&type=1&lang=EN.   SWEET SOUNDS FESTIVAL UPDATE: Sweet Sounds Rock Fest 2 (Chicago @ Penny Road Pub) is confirmed! "With a turnout of 300 plus people in St. Louis, I was very pleased and got good vibes from the crowds and bands performing. I learn from each show, how to make the next one even better." stated Ron Berman CEO of the festival. This show will be hosted by internationally known comedian Jim Florentine and will feature approximately 10-13 metal/rock bands that will make this festival memorable. Jim will be introducing each band and telling jokes which will keep the crowd asking for more. There will by pre sold tickets made available shortly to purchase and possibly sold at the door. Go to www.sweetsounds.us as more info will become available.

 

 

Monday, October 31, 2011

R.I.P. STEVE HARRIS: In following up Saturday's tragic news of Shy's Steve Harris passing: "Escape Music are sad to hear that Steve Harris, Guitarist with legendary UK Rockers Shy, has passed away. Steve was a fine guitarist and songwriter and will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Steve has been described in the press as one of the "most humble, pleasant people you could wish to meet. Escape Music are honoured to have been involved with Steve and the band, albeit for a short time, and would like to express their sympathy to Steve's family and friends. We are thinking of them at this very sad time."   Following the news posted Saturday - I'd personally like to offer my condolences to Steve's wife and family, his bandmates and friends around the world. And Steve did have a lot of very loyal friends. His sickness was kept private. I knew what was happening, as did some others, but Steve valued his privacy and everyone respected that. It would have been nice to offer him some positive words and perhaps some thank you's, but being of humble thinking, that was not his desire. So we must pay our respects and tributes to Steve now, after his passing. All fans can do that now at: www.shyonline.co.uk. Just take a listen to the new Shy album. Boy, does Steve's work on that album now seem absolutely gargantuan! He left us with his best recorded work of his career. The following tribute song link was sent to me by Escape's Khalil Turk, perfect for this occasion. The vocalist (Andi Kravljaca) is the new singer in Departure (and current Silent Call vox). R.I.P. Steve.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Audio Samples of the new Scorpions album Comeblack can be heard now at: www.amazon.de/Comeblack-inkl-Bonus-Track-exklusiv. Royal Hunt news: Part 2 of the Studio Report has been uploaded - www.youtube.com/watch?v=TimpNLQDOIM. John Waite has gone into the nomination pool for the 2011 Grammys - Best rock album for Rough and Tumble and Best rock song, for the title track "Rough and Tumble". More news at: www.johnwaite.nl/pages/113274/News.html. VOODOO HIGHWAY SPECIAL EDITION DUE: Due to the fast sold out of the first edition of Voodoo Highway's debut album Broken Uncle's Inn, the hard rock band is actually going to print a second edition of the album with some bonus contents. The new edition will be available from November 2011 and it will contains new graphics and some extra live bonus tracks. Broken Uncle's Inn is physically available on: Voodoo Highway's online shop: www.voodooitaly.altervista.org/shop/shop.html / Rock n' Growl Distro, AOR Heaven, MyGraveyard Productions, NEH Records, Wishing Well Entertainment, MusicBuyMail, etc. Broken Uncle's Inn is digitally available on: iTunes, Amazon, Virgin, Meteli.net, Jamster, Napster, Musicload, etc. Running Around video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGLP7VsA8Tc. More Links: www.facebook.com/pages/VOODOO-HIGHWAY/107889722591097 / www.youtube.com/TheVoodooHighway / www.myspace.com/voodoohighway. STEVE PERRY INTERVIEW THANKS: A very warm thank you for all the amazing feedback from my interview with Steve Perry posted Friday. Overwhelming responses and really glad that the interview with such an icon has been received so well. with Steve gaining a lot of praise for his responses and openness during the interview. David Lee Roth and Eddie Van Halen - Let's talk!

 

 

Saturday, October 29, 2011

R.I.P. SHY GUITARIST STEVE HARRIS: It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that I have been asked to post the following message on behalf of the family and friends of Shy guitarist Steve Harris: "IT IS WITH GREAT REGRET AND SADNESS THAT WE HAVE TO ANNOUNCE THE PASSING OF OUR BELOVED STEVE HARRIS, GUITARIST AND CREATIVE GENIUS BEHIND SHY. STEVE WAS A VERY PRIVATE MAN AND HAD BATTLED A BRAIN TUMOUR SINCE JUNE 2009 AND ONLY THOSE CLOSEST TO THE FAMILY KNEW. A FULL STATEMENT WILL BE ISSUED SHORTLY, LOVE DEBBIE HARRIS AND SHY" R.I.P. Steve. More news to follow.

 

 

Friday, October 28, 2011

The legendary voice of Journey - Steve Perry has been atop my "want list" for interviews since I first started this site in late 1996. I've been fortunate to talk to all other members along the way, but still no Steve. The elusive Steve Perry interview remained a dream. Until this week. I hope you enjoy the read and if you take one thing from this interview - Steve talked and sounded like he was in a very good place. It was a great pleasure and a thrill to talk to him and have him open up about some tough subjects. Not only is he a rock icon and a personal favourite of an army of fans, but he's also one of my personal favourite singers of all time. And dare I say, one of (if not the) very best melodic rock vocalist ever. I'm very thankful to Steve for extending out interview time and to Sony Music and Lora @ FanAsylum for setting this interview up for me...after years of nagging! Some Interview Highlights: Steve on first joining Journey: "When it started for me it was around 1978 when I joined the band. That's when I got my first break to get into the music business and I got signed to Columbia Records. And it was a dream come true back in those days to get a record deal. It was the sweetest thing you could ever have, is to be signed…next to the most horrific day of your life which would be to get dropped. So many of my friends did get dropped because they didn't sell records. I looked at it as if every time I had the opportunity to make a record – which the first was Infinity, with Journey – was this magical blessing that, I finally am in the record business and I get to make a record. But, I did not believe in my heart there would be a second one. I knew I had to love doing it, and if I could make any money I should save some money because I didn't trust there to be a second one." And on the rest of the band adjusting to him: "They have to deal with this stepson that is something that they like but they wish they could have done it their way, and why wouldn't they? Why wouldn't they have wished that they could be successful without having a lead singer? Well then the label says "We want you to have a singer" and then they went, "Well, I don't know, I don't know." So, all of the sudden, here comes me, and I think it was a real challenge for all of us to find out what that really meant. They had to let go of doing it their way. I was bringing in ideas; they were growing. But, I will tell you this…being the singer in that environment with them as we were growing together on the Infinity record brought a certain kind of vocal strength out of me that the band required it have. Otherwise, I do not know if I would have ever found that anywhere else. And I think that at some level I did the same thing for them." Steve on that brutal tour schedule: "I was like a pitbull. I still have tons of energy. My girlfriend tells me all the time, "You're the most energetic person I've ever met." But when I was younger, I was on fire. And, so I think that back in the day when the voice was fresh and young and I had that much energy, I kept up with that scheduled pretty good. Though it was difficult at times, I was able to keep up with it. You betcha. Everybody went through the same commitment because we were all together far away from everything together, out there. But we loved it! Don't you understand that?" Steve on Columbia dealing with his solo record: "They were scared to death. They thought that I was going to spend a lot of money and they weren't sure what I was going to do. But you know, I ended up doing it relatively inexpensively and quickly because I had great musicians. There were no computers back then. Everything you're hearing on the Street Talk record is absolutely performed in the studio and captured on a piece of tape. I mean if you threw hamburgers in the studio, you would get hamburgers on tape you know? So, there was not a computer to be found, no auto tuner existed. Nothing of today's era existed during '84-'85. So, that is real musicians like Larry Londin on drums, Bobby Glaub on bass, Craig Kramph on drums, Michael Landau on guitar…" And on disappearing from the public eye: "I went away. I did. I've been gone. I just went away and tried to figure out how to live life on life's terms and just come off the ride. Just put my feet on the ground. I think that has been the challenge and also to allow myself, Andrew, to start dreaming again, because the dreaming is where the music is. But the trick of the dreamer is keeping yourself from the blues..." On Journey moving on without him: "At the time, I fuckin hated it! I hated them for doing it; I hated them for giving me an ultimatum. But now I can look back with clear eyes, you know. I can't blame them; they just wanted to get going. I was going to go to surgery, and I did. But not on their timetable. So I did that. I had my hip replacement and the rest is history. They've gone on and I'm where I'm at. Life had showed up and there was a fork in the road between us. So, we went separate ways dare I say, not making a joke. And that's okay. Now, I look back at it as the most painful time of my life. But you know what? They need to love their lives. They love performing out there all the time. The fans love the songs we wrote." All that and more in the new Feature Interview: Steve Perry: A Legend Finds Peace ROCK CANDY RECORDS DUE TO REISSUE CANADIAN BAND SHERRIFF CLASSIC: Later this year Rock Candy Records are due to reissue Canadian band Sherriff's sole album from 1982 (together with the rare promotional live album as bonus material), a record that features the #1 US power Ballard 'When I'm With You' and the remarkable vocals of Freddy Curci. Despite input from band members there is a lack of surviving visual documentation. Rock Candy would like to appeal to anyone who may have some photographs, trade ads, or print reviews that they can contribute to this reissue. Please email info@rockcandyrecords.com. Oh, and don't forget to sign up to the new Rock Candy mailing list located on the Contact Us page / www.rockcandyrecords.co.uk.   MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Kansas - Riverbend 1995 (15 Tracks) - John Cougar - Denver 1982 (16 Tracks - great show!) - Killer Dwarfs - Vancouver, BC 11-22-84 (8 Tracks) Join MRX here and help support MelodicRock.com. Due to the Steve Perry interview taking up a lot of the week, a few reviews I had not quite finished (Mecca, The Magnificent, Tora Tora), will be online Monday. A lot of other stufff and a hundred emails to get to also...all from Monday.

 

 

Thursday, October 27, 2011

JOURNEY TO RECEIVE BILLBOARD'S LEGEND OF LIVE AWARD: Journey will receive the "Legend of Live" award at the 2011 Billboard Touring Awards, which are presented by Showclix and are taking place November 10 at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York. The awards are part of the Billboard Touring Conference, taking place on the 9th and 10th. The Billboard "Legend of Live" award honors groups or individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to live music and the touring business, and acknowledges the recipients' commitment to the art of performing live and reaching fans through the concert experience. Previous award recipients include Rush (2010), Ozzy Osbourne (2009), the Allman Brothers Band (2008), pioneering agent Frank Barsalona (2007), Sir Elton John (2006), Cellar Door Concerts founder Jack Boyle (2005) and promoter Michael Cohl (2004). Journey remains a hugely successful touring band, having moved nearly 1 million tickets and averaging more than $600,000 a night at the box office on this year's "Eclipse" tour, according to Billboard Boxscore. "I'm so honored to come to New York to represent the band for all the years and dedication that everyone's given," Journey guitarist and founding member Neal Schon says of the honor. "Though they have sold millions of records and charted a wealth of the most beloved Billboard hits in history, most would agree that Journey's longevity has in large part been driven by their stellar live performances," said Ray Waddell, Billboard's Executive Director of Content and Programming for Touring and Live Entertainment. "From their days blowing up the Bay Area music scene to their ascent to international headlining and, today, iconic rock status, withstanding personnel changes that would bring down a lesser band, Journey's talent transcends musical trends and draws bigger crowds year after year. In short, Journey personifies a 'Legend of Live.'" The Billboard Touring Awards honor the industry's top artists, venues and professionals for the year, based on actual data compiled through the Billboard Boxscore chart. This awards reception culminates the two-day Billboard Touring Conference, presented by ShowClix, taking place at Roosevelt Hotel in New York City on November 9-10. The conference unites today's top touring professionals to discuss the current state of the industry. Guided by Ray Waddell, this unique event includes provocative panels, productive roundtables and networking opportunities with touring industry power players and decision makers. For more information about the 8th annual Billboard Touring Conference & Awards, see: www.BillboardTouringConference.com. NewsLink: www.billboard.com/events/journey-to-receive. THUNDER'S HIGH VOLTAGE BOOK: Thunder press release: "Yes peeps, having been approached about it, considered it, and ultimately rejected it several times for reasons of cost since 1989 when Thunder began, the bountiful goddess Internet has finally enabled the band to produce a book. And a lovely thing it is too. Shot and designed by band friends Marty Moffatt and Jason Joyce, this 80 page photo book features a short intro from all 5 band members, and captures 3 pretty full on days in the life of the band in July 2011. It documents 1 day at rehearsals, the warm up show at Rock City, and the band's appearance at the High Voltage Festival. It's a thick hard backed high quality "made for your coffee table" type affair, and very nicely put together by a company called Blurb. Thunder Towers ordered a test copy for the office, and can testify that it is a very chunky and most desirable piece of Thunder kit. Whilst it is not a cheap thing, we think it is very nice, hopefully you'll agree. For the iPad enabled, there is also an eBook version that is much cheaper (you'll need iBooks) and good for showing. To preview the whole book (every page), and of course purchase a copy, please click here for the Thunder page at Blurb.com. There are quite a few fan pics, perhaps you'll see yourself: www.blurb.com. We hope you like it." ~ The Thin Feeling A Bit Like He's "In Publishing" One. WebLinks: www.thunderonline.com / www.thunderonline-shop.co.uk.   ROB MANCINI ALBUM DETAILS AND ARTWORK REVEALED: The new Rob Mancini album Rock 'n' Roll Circus could best be described as a reflective but modern influenced crossover between the roots of late 80s and early 90s melodic rock. Think Bon Jovi with a Nickelback kick, infused with his own signature, a powerfully stomping rhythm guitar section, addictive keyboards and catchy melody lines sung by lead vocalist, guitarist and RockDoc Rob Mancini. Tracklisting: 1. Carnival Of Fools, 2. Rock'n'Roll Circus, 3. Edge Of A Broken Heart, 4. Every Time You Cry, 5. Running Up That Hill, 6. Lay Down The Law, 7. Weak As I Am, 8. Stranger In Paradise, 9. Too Late To Die, 10. The Reaper, 11. United We Stand, 12. Time Stops For No One But You, 13.Edge Of A Broken Heart (Radio Edit). The album was recorded at Robs GMG Studio One in Ireland, featuring 13 tracks including a cover version of Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill" and was mastered by Harry Hess at Vespa Music Group Canada. Tour dates are in planning for 2012. Rob played extensively on the international rock circuit in the mid-90s with "Hotwire" & "Crush", recording several albums and sharing the stage with artists such as Victory, Thunderhead, Dare, etc. before moving to Ireland in 2001 to work as studio and session musician. For more information, updates and sound samples of the new album please check the following: www.robmancinirock.com / www.reverbnation.com/robmancinirock / www.facebook.com/robmancinirock.   STYX DRUMMER TODD SUCHERMAN DELIVERS NEW DVD: Todd Sucherman returns with a stunning follow up to his multiple award winning "Methods and Mechanics." Filmed in Hi Definition, "Methods and Mechanics II: Life on the Road, Songs, Solos, Stories and Lessons" takes us on a multi-faceted, enlightening and entertaining ride that goes well beyond basic instruction. Sucherman delivers another "must have" production that encompasses the technical, musical, philosophical, and career advice needed to navigate and succeed in today's musical landscape. Hit the road with Sucherman and get a glimpse of life on a big rock tour and see how musical and personal professionalism meet in real world applications. Methods and Mechanics II includes: 15 song performances with analysis and breakdowns featuring the music of Styx, Taylor Mills and Jerry Goodman Styx live performances on tour; Several solo improvisations; Extensive look at ghost notes; Hand exercises and applications; Odd phrases with paradiddles; Career conduct and navigational philosophies; Melodic song form practice ideas; Concepts for practice routines; Rhythmic Bending; Overcoming nerves; Recording session manners; Gear and monitor tips; "Quick Tips" and "Professional Suggestions"; Blooper reel; Extras. Also learn how to navigate through all aspects of life on the road--airports, airplanes, hotels, town cars, the tour bus, luggage (while remaining sane). There are so many topics covered that Methods and Mechanics II can only be summed up as "Infodrummertainment!" Sucherman has held the drum chair in the muti-platinum band Styx for fifteen years all the while working with artists of various genres such as Brian Wilson, Spinal Tap, Eric Marienthal, John Wetton, Peter Cetera, Falling Wallendas and recording thousands of sessions. He was voted #1 Rock Drummer in Modern Drummer magazine's readers poll in 2009, and won "Best Instructional DVD" the same year. He continues to tour, record, and perform clinics at drum festivals all over the world. "Methods and Mechanics II: Life on the Road, Songs, Solos, Stories and Lessons" is another triumph that has Sucherman yet again raising the bar for instructional DVDs. 14 minute performance trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=uV_hO2kZixU.   MAGNUM PLAY FIRST GIG IN CUMBRIA IN 22 YEARS: Sound Carlisle announces opening Line Up to celebrate First Anniversary of Club Rock. Legendary UK Rock Band Magnum will headline the opening Rock concert at Carlisle's new 1000 plus venue Sound Carlisle. Cumbrian Rock Royalty It Bites will be special guests and up-coming Rockers Falling Red will open the show. Magnum were formed in Birmingham in 1972. It was classic albums On A Storytellers Night, Vigilante and Wings of Heaven that took Magnum to the top of the UK charts and into arenas and festivals all over the world. On 14th November Magnum release their new album Evolution and look forward to playing songs old and new in Carlisle. It Bites are just finishing their new album Map of the Past and have just released the title track as a 7inch Single and CD. 2011 is the 25th Anniversary of Big Lad and the Windmill and It Bites are looking forward to heading back to their home county to play some of their Made In Cumbria classic and will play Calling All The Heroes for their fans. Falling Red have made a strong impact on the UK touring scene and are the next generation of Cumbrian Rock Heroes. Tickets go on sale on Friday 28th of October at 9am from www.ticketline.co.uk or 08448889991. They can be bought from Club Rock and Outrageous in Carlisle for just £10.00 before 21st of November after that they are £15.00 and £17.50 on the door for more information www.soundcarlisle.com / Sound Carlisle, Portland Place, Carlisle, Cumbria CA1 1RL.   WORLD EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW OF "THIN LIZZY AT THE BBC" BOX SET: This week's edition of Rich Davenport's Rock Show (Thursday 27th October, 7-8pm UK time at: www.salfordcityradio.org/shows.php?id=577 and then available for 3 weeks on the Listen Again feature at the same link) features two exclusive features spotlighting classic Hard Rock from the Emerald Isle! The show has a weekly tribute to Phil Lynott, in association with www.thin-lizzy.info, and the site, in conjunction with Universal Records, have given Rich two exclusive preview tracks from the forthcoming Thin Lizzy at the BBC box set (released on November 7th, 2011). One track will go out on this week's show, and the other will be broadcast next week. This week's show also features an exclusive interview with rising Irish Hard rockers Glyder, who's new album "Backroads to Byzantium" is available now on SPV Records. Lead guitarist and founder member Bat Kinane will be giving you the low down on the album, the band's new line-up, and his encounters with rock legend Ronnie James Dio. The show also features tracks from the new albums by Magnum, Mecca, Brainstorm and Miss Behaviour, along with classic cuts from Def Leppard, The Outlaws and Iron Maiden. GLENN HUGHES PREPARES TO DELIVER SOLO ROCK: Glenn Hughes will record his first solo album since 2007 for release in 2012, describing it as "The image of the Glenn Hughes on the Black Country Communion albums...the same Glenn that was in Deep Purple. The classic rock iconic Glenn that, let's be clear, the majority of the fans want." Hughes was interviewed for I Heart Guitar Blog. Read the full interview here: iheartguitarblog.com/2011/10/glennhughes.html. Excerpt: "People are going to read this and go 'Wow!' I'm thinking about doing a solo thing. I haven't really gone public and said it but you asked me the question and I told you I would tell you the truth. I'm really thinking about making a Glenn album early next year. It's been four years since I entered the studio for F.U.N.K, but my hat now has been very much thrown into the rock ring. What I will do, Peter, on the next Glenn album, is portray the image of the Glenn Hughes on the Black Country Communion albums. Because it's the same Glenn that was in Deep Purple, really. The classic rock iconic Glenn that, let's be clear, the majority of the fans want. The F.U.N.K. album was very well recorded and I love the songs, but that's for a cultured audience and a different kind of audience. It's more of a cult audience, if you will. But my audience now with BCC and a lot of my fans are rockers, man, so it's time to rock. So the next album, Peter, will be a rock record." STRANGE KARMA SET TO ROCK THE US IN NOVEMBER: "Australian rock" is a genre that music fans hold in high regard, as some of the greatest rock bands of all time (AC/DC, Rose Tattoo, The Saints, Radio Birdman, etc.) hailed from the land down under. And the latest hard rocking Australian band that is turning heads is Strange Karma. Comprised of brothers Martin Strange (singer) and Paul Strange (guitar), as well as Doe Prijono (bass), and Jason McDonald (drums), Strange Karma has just issued their kick ass debut, 'Volume 1' (via FNA Records ­ www.fnarecords.net). And soon, US fans will get a chance to catch this fast-rising act. On Wednesday, November 2nd, Strange Karma will be playing the legendary Whisky A Go Go in Hollywood, CA, and on Saturday, November 5th, will be playing the Rock n' Roll Cantina in Las Vegas, NV. Then, on Wednesday, November 30th, the quartet will perform another show at the Whiskey A Go Go. Unlike many other up-and-coming bands, Strange Karma is already a road-tested unit, having performed extensively in their home country, as well as embarking on tours of both England and the US. Additionally, the group has collected an impressive amount of accolades and accomplishments, including amassing nearly 100,000 friends on MySpace, which has led to over 200,000 plays of their songs via their MySpace site. Also, Strange Karma has received coverage on such respected hard rock/heavy metal sites as Sleaze Roxx and Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles. The band has also filmed a video for the lead-off single from 'Volume 1,' titled "America," which can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyoKHTnN2z8&feature=channel_video_title. Also, 'Volume 1' can be purchased via these links: www.amazon.com/Vol-1-Strange-Karma-Strange/dp/B004OMFJK6/ref=sr_1_2?i / www.cdbaby.com/cd/strangekarma. Hollywood and Las Vegas area rockers and beyond, get ready to welcome the next wave of loud n' proud Australian rock n' roll this November! For more information, visit the following sites: www.strangekarma.net / www.facebook.com/pages/Strange-Karma/157783670932214 / www.myspace.com/strangekarma. Upcoming Strange Karma US Tour Dates: Wednesday, November 2nd: Whisky A Go Go, Hollywood Saturday, November 5th: Rock n' Roll Cantina, Las Vegas Saturday, November 12th: Reggie's Rock Club, Chicago Wednesday, November 16th: Sullivan Hall, New York City - 10:30pm set time Saturday, November 19th : Harpo's, Detroit appearing with Art Of Dying Wed, November 30th: Whisky A Go Go, Hollywood CHRIS CATENA AND PAVIC GO SEPARATE WAYS: After around 7 years of cooperation and two albums Chris Catena and the band Pavic realized they have different artistic targets. Chris Catena is now working hard to his next solo release, his third solo album which will sound more like his critically acclaimed debut CD entitled Freak Out. Additionally Chris recorded the debut album of his Italian rock band "Dr. U" produced by Joe Marlett (Foo Fighters, Queens Of The Stone Age, Blink 182, Seal).

 

 

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

"ACHTUNG TWENTY": U2 INTHESTUDIO FOR ACHTUNG BABY'S 20TH ANNIVERSARY: Dallas, TX- Oct 26, 2011. North American syndicated Rock radio show InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands hosts U2's Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr. for the release of the Uber-Deluxe Achtung Baby box set to commemorate its 20th anniversary. By 1990, U2 was a band riding high from a decade of steady touring and hit records, culminating with the 1987 'Album Of The Year' Grammy for The Joshua Tree, documented on both the Rattle and Hum album and movie. Their next album, recorded in newly-unified Germany, would be set against the backdrop of the fall of the Berlin Wall, the collapse of the Soviet Union and freedom for the first time in more than 40 years there. But an internal crisis within the band threatened to break up U2, according to founding member and drummer Larry Mullen Jr. "Musically, we had reached a stage where it just wasn't happening. We went in to do the recordings for Achtung Baby and we just sort of lost touch with each other, lost touch with the culture we came out of." It was this reality that for many bands could spell the end, but for U2 caused reinvention. The Edge explains to host Redbeard, "We wanted the album to be very extreme. We didn't want it to sound in anyway safe...we're not denying the past, we're not turning our back on our previous records, but this record is so different. It represents the two extreme of what we are and somewhere between the two is where we stand." InTheStudio can be heard on over 50 radio stations across North America. U2 Achtung Twenty / InTheStudio program will air the week of Oct 24th - 30th. To Stream Interview Online: www.inthestudio.net. FALLING AVAILABLE - FREE DOWNLOAD: A free track download is now available from Dutch rockers Chinawhite. Their latest update reads: "While trying to come up with a singing solution for the next Chinawhite record, we asked a few friends of the band to lend us a hand. Here one of them, singer John Neessen (90 Day Jane) sings his lyrics and melodies to our track Wings Of The Wind from the 2009 album Challenges. We also did some remixing of it. We think he made the track better than it already was, but you be the judge..." Download at: www.chinawhite.nl. Plus this: "Besides new reviews and more video on the site we also have a CD sale going: buy one, get one for free. Worth checking out as your support of independent music is highly appreciated. Visit the band's site at: www.chinawhite.nl. RIOT - NEW PROMO VIDEO - MAKING OF "WINGS ARE FOR ANGELS": The wait is nearly over! Starting tomorrow legendary US metal outfit Riot release their hugely anticipated fourteenth album 'Immortal Soul' worldwide Steamhammer/SPV in the following countries: Scandinavia 26th October Germany/Austria/Switzerland 28th October Rest of Europe 31st October US/Canada 22nd November Along releasing "Still Your Man" a few days ago, the band also created a promo video, featuring another song of the album: Wings Are for Angels - www.youtube.com/user/officialriotnycTV#p/a/u/1/GuoD3Bzpnr4. This was released earlier this year for a Japanese Tsunami relief album by Avalon/Marquee, and it earned massive positive feedback already. The album "Immortal Soul" was released last week by Avalon/Marquee in Japan and it received #2 in the most prestigious magazine Burrn! Right behind the highly anticipated new Chickenfoot album. "Wow, this is quite an achievement" comments Tony Moore. "Chickenfoot is an all star band and gets hyped across the world. And we are next in line? This is awesome! Thank you Japan, we sure want to be out there as soon as possible in 2012." Tony Moore, who is still recovering from an oral surgery, adds: "We are really happy about all that positive feedback for Immortal Soul, but equally for the fact that RIOT is back. Journalists all over the world give us the highest marks and speak about this album very highly. We have interviews on a daily basis and I believe every magazine on this planet has a RIOT story in their current / next issue." Right now RIOT is about to confirmed a few US shows in early 2012­ dates and venues to be revealed soon ­ and are looking forward to play the 70,000 tons of Metal Cruise in January. More info on www.70000tons.com. MORE ROYAL HUNT YOUTUBE FOOTAGE: Royal Hunt: Part 1 of the Studio Report has been uploaded: www.youtube.com/watch?v=FkWRv906fU8.

 

 

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

THE HOLY GRAIL OF INTERVIEWS - STEVE PERRY: I am very excited to announce that I have completed a phone interview this morning with the legendary former vocalist of Journey - Steve Perry. It is the first time I have ever spoken to Mr. Perry and was grateful for him to blow right past our scheduled 20 minute interview time to talk for no less than 80 minutes! While I had a lifetime of questions at the ready, we did manage to cover a lot of ground in that time and I look forward to bringing that interview to MelodicRock.com very shortly. The interview was at 4.15am local time and I couldn't get back to sleep afterwards. The interview fills a long held desire to interview Steve and I can't wait to showcase the Feature Interview asap. Steve Perry is promoting the release of Journey's Greatest Hits 2 compilation, plus the Vinyl Remaster release of Greatest Hits 1 and his own solo album Street Talk. Sony Music have just released sizzle real's for both releases via YouTube. Check them out now:   xx And still with a few days left to run: October is Breast Cancer Awareness month! Fan Asylum has launched an eBay auction to raise awareness & funds to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Win a phone call from Steve Perry! Check out the auction and bid at: www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330628535238. YES TO RELEASE NEW LIVE 2CD/DVD PACKAGE ON FRONTIERS: Frontiers Records proudly announces the latest live release from the most influential and ground-breaking progressive rock 'n' roll band in history, Yes. New album In The Present – Live from Lyon will be available on 2CD/DVD package from November 29 in North America and December 2 in Europe. Recorded in Lyon, France, on December 1st 2009, In The Present – Live from Lyon is an outstanding collection of hidden gems and unforgettable classics, with new singer Benoit David breathing new life into each of the evergreen tracks. The package comes with a 55 minute DVD containing excerpts from the live performance, candid interviews and behind the scenes footage. The cover art features an original design by Roger Dean, author of most Yes album covers including classics 'Fragile', 'Close To The Edge' and 'Drama'. Yes' powerful compositions influenced a generation of musicians. They have a hugely successful and indelible catalogue of masterpieces; songs like "Roundabout," a seminal hit which consistently appears on "the best songs of all-time" lists, and the group's #1 hit "Owner of a Lonely Heart", taken from the Yes album '90125', saw Yes top the UK and US album charts simultaneously. Yes are the pioneers for the use of synthesizers and sound effects in modern music and produced a multitude of timeless, symphonic-rock masterworks; they continued to push the cutting edge of art-rock music to their limits, selling over 30 million albums and reaching platinum status multiple times worldwide. Yes latest studio album 'Fly From Here' – the first in ten years – hit the Top 10 on the Rock Charts and was declared as their "best work since the '70s" (Paste Magazine) "In the Present – Live From Lyon" will be released in a gloss digipak edition. The final tracklisting includes: CD1: Siberian Khatru; I've Seen All Good People; Tempus Fugit; Onward; Astral Traveller; And You And I; Corkscrew (Acoustic Solo). CD2: Owner Of A Lonely Heart; Southside Of The Sky; Machine Messiah; Heart Of The Sunrise; Roundabout; Starship Trooper. DVD: Interviews, Excerpts from the Live Show, Roundabout, Machine Messiah (running time approx 55 mins.) A limited edition gatefold sleeve 3 LP vinyl release (only including the audio portion of the album) will be exclusively available in the European markets. A trailer of the DVD can be enjoyed following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1CVUbp562c. "In the Present – Live From Lyon" lineup features: Benoit David: vocals; Steve Howe: guitar; Chris Squire: bass; Alan White: drums; Oliver Wakeman: keyboards   xx Catch Yes On Tour In Europe – Fall 2011 11/03 Lisbon, Portugal Coliseum 11/04 Madrid, Spain La Riviera 11/05 Barcelona, Spain St. Jordi Club 11/08 Cambridge, UK Corn Exchange 11/09 Sheffield, UK City Hall 11/11 Birmingham, UK Symphony Hall 11/12 Glasgow, Scotland Clyde Auditorium 11/13 Manchester, UK Apollo 11/15 Brighton, UK Dome 11/16 Bristol, UK Colston Hall 11/17 London, UK Hammersmith Apollo 11/19 Paris, France Olympia 11/20 Brussels, Belgium Ancienne Belgique 11/21 Nijmegen, Holland Vereeniging 11/23 Zurich, Switzerland Volkshaus 11/24 Milan, Italy Teatro Smeraldo 11/25 Trieste, Italy Palazzetto di Chiarbola 11/27 Vienna, Austria Koncerthaus 11/29 Dresden, Germany Kulturpalast 11/30 Stuttgart, Germany KKL Hegensaal 12/02 Nuremberg, Germany Meistersinger Hall 12/03 Munich, Germany Tonhalle 12/04 Bielefield, Germany Ringlokschuppen 12/06 Copenhagen, Denmark Amager Bio 12/07 Oslo, Norway Sentrum Scene 12/09 Stockholm, Sweden Solnahallen 12/11 Helsinki, Finland Circus 12/12 Tallinn, Estonia Nokia Kontserdimaja 12/15 Moscow, Russia Crocus City Hall SWEDEN ROCK FESTIVAL 2012: TICKETS AVAILABLE, FIRST BANDS ANNOUNCED: Today, the 3- and 4-day tickets for Sweden Rock Festival 2012 are made available. We are also happy to announce the first 7 confirmed bands for next summer: Mötley Crüe, Blue Öyster Cult, Dimmu Borgir, Edguy, Gamma Ray, Danko Jones and Pentagram. Tickets: Sweden Rock Festival, located in Sölvesborg, Blekinge in southern Sweden, is the biggest rock festival of the Nordic countries and has been sold out every time the last few years, which means 33 000 visitors. Today at 9 am CET the 3-day tickets (for the main festival days) and 4-day tickets (including the Wednesday opening) are made available through www.swedenrock.com. The first 5000 ticket buyers will receive a Sweden Rock T-shirt which will not be available anywhere else. The design has been made by British artist Sleba, known for his work with Led Zeppelin and Star Wars, among others. Also, we will be running competitions each week until new years where everyone who has bought a ticket has the chance to win electric guitars signed by bands and artists such as Judas Priest, Whitesnake, Zakk Wylde, Saxon and The Cult. Bands: Around 70 bands will perform on our 5 stages next summer. Seven of them have been confirmed. First up is an act that year after year continues to be one of the most wanted by our visitors, namely Mötley Crüe who made a big impression with their SRF 2005 headlining show. Seven years later, it is time for Vince Neil, Nikki Sixx, Tommy Lee and Mick Mars to deliver another powerful show filled with classic songs. Among our first batch of bands we also find legendary 70´s rockers Blue Öyster Cult, and the world's biggest black metal band at the moment, Norwegian Dimmu Borgir. Two of the power metal genres greatest, Kai Hansen's Gamma Ray and Tobias Sammet's Edguy are also coming to Sölvesborg, as well as Canadian rock'n'roll trio Danko Jones. Last but not least, we are proud to present the Sweden Rock Festival debut of American cult doom band Pentagram. Another 60+ bands are waiting to be confirmed, so keep watching our website for further announcements. More detailed info about the bands can be found at www.swedenrock.com. There, you can also find info about ticket prices, the festival's history and more. Welcome to Sweden Rock Festival in Sölvesborg, 6-7-8-9 June 2012! SACRED HEART DELIVERS MORE PROPAGANDA: Inspired by the plight of those at Auschwitz and similar camps, Sacred Heart's new single "Propaganda Part two" is released on Monday 31st October digitally through iTunes and Amazon etc. Taken from the new album "Propaganda" (CD available through www.sacredheartband.com and www.musicbuymail.eu and digital download through all leading retailers: iTunes, Amazon, Napster etc) which has already received some excellent reviews. Please check out the video at www.youtube.com/sacredheartband.

 

 

Monday, October 24, 2011

MICHAEL EDEN TALKS DEPARTURE FROM EDEN'S CURSE, MUDSLINGING AND SO MUCH MORE: Press Release: "Michael Eden announced his departure from Eden's Curse … and then the shit hit the metaphorical fan. Because of the fallout, the lack of any public communication from the band itself, the negative and erroneous info being slung around the Internet, Eden is doing one, all-encompassing interview to put the final nail in the coffin and give you the exact truth about what happened. Why he left, if money was one of the reasons, his relationship with each band mate, what he has learned from the experience, why he is going to make a new Eden's Curse in America … and so much more. This two-hour interview covers everything from touring to in-fighting to the fact he absolutely wishes the band the best of luck in their search to find someone who can actually replace his voice and contributions to the legacy thus far. Hardrock Haven has been a friend of the band since their inception; they even put an interview with Pamela Moore, Paul Logue and Michael Eden on the EP Condemned to Burn. There is a long history here, and that's why Eden came to Hardrock Haven — the only place on earth you will hear this interview. Never one to hold back when he feels strongly about something, tune in now to hear the exclusive interview with Eden and why Eden's Curse is as far behind him as he can put it … but also straight ahead of him." To hear the entire interview (which is cut into four 30-minute sections), head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/michael-eden-ex-edens-curse/. [MR Note: This interview wasn't easy to listen to. There aren't many that are spared a serve in this interview including all ex-band mates, many of this website's Noticeboard regulars (big time), Firefest, Talon and more. Be warned...]. BOB SEGER & THE SILVER BULLET BAND'S NEW CAREER-SPANNING COLLECTION: For the first time, all of Bob Seger's top hits have been gathered for a career-spanning 2CD and digital collection titled Ultimate Hits: Rock And Roll Never Forgets. To be released Monday, November 21 by Capitol/EMI, the 26-track collection includes "Night Moves," "Turn The Page," "Hollywood Nights," "Mainstreet," "Old Time Rock And Roll," "Like A Rock," "Her Strut," "We've Got Tonight," "Against The Wind," "Still The Same," and many other Seger classics, as well as the Detroit rocker's two #1 radio singles from this year, "Downtown Train" and his current #1 Classic Rock hit, "Hey Hey Hey Hey (Going Back To Birmingham)." The collection also includes Seger's timeless rendition of the Holiday classic "Little Drummer Boy," its first appearance on a Bob Seger album, as well as the original mono version of Seger's first hit "Ramblin' Gamblin' Man." All songs on the album have been meticulously remastered from the original master tapes. On September 13, Seger offered fans a Free 6-Track Bonus EP on iTunes to celebrate the release of the digitally remastered multi-platinum Nine Tonight and Live Bullet concert albums. During the one week promotion, Seger gave his fans 1,698,000 free downloaded tracks. Seger & his Silver Bullet Band's live performances have led to record sales in excess of 51 million including 11 platinum and seven multi-platinum RIAA-certified album awards. Seger holds the distinction in 2010 for the #1 Catalog Album of the Decade for his Greatest Hits, which has sold over nine million copies (U.S.A.) to date, posting an unbroken 17-year streak on Billboard's Top 200 Albums and Catalog Albums charts. Ultimate Hits: Rock And Roll Never Forgets (2CD; digital) DISC ONE: 1. Old Time Rock And Roll 2. Hollywood Nights 3. Night Moves 4. Mainstreet 5. Roll Me Away 6. Turn The Page 7. Her Strut 8. Still The Same 9. You'll Accomp'ny Me 10. We've Got Tonight 11. Like A Rock 12. Fire Lake 13 .Tryin' To Live My Life Without You. DISC TWO: 1. Rock And Roll Never Forgets 2. Against The Wind 3. Ramblin' Gamblin' Man 4. The Fire Down Below 5. Travelin' Man (Live) 6. Beautiful Loser (Live) 7. Shakedown 8. Shame On The Moon 9. Katmandu 10. Little Drummer Boy 11. Wait For Me 12. Hey Hey Hey Hey (Going Back To Birmingham) 13. Downtown Train.   RUNNING WILD SHADOWMAKER SENSATIONAL COMEBACK-ALBUM: It's finally official: Running Wild are back! To the delight of his countless fans, Captain Rock'n'Rolf has announced the release of the new album, Shadowmaker, seven years after Running Wild's last studio album, Rogues En Vogue. "My comments in spring 2009 about the demise of Running Wild were absolutely serious at the time. I really needed time out and, to be honest, couldn't imagine even in January 2011 that I would ever feel like recording a new album again," says Rolf. "But when I had the inspiration for a best-of album, to which I wanted to contribute four new numbers, I rediscovered how much I enjoy composing. From then on it was only a small step to record a full new studio album." Rock'n'Rolf has written ten new tracks for Shadowmaker, among them are the mid-tempo opener 'Piece Of The Action', the uptempo number 'Shadowmaker' ("roughly the same pace as 'Angel Of Mercy'") and the monumental eight-minute track 'Dracula', based on Bram Stoker's novel and the Christopher Lee movies. "To me, Shadowmaker is a very special album because there was no pressure, time wise or otherwise. I feel it's clearly audible that this relaxed attitude helped me to write one of the strongest Running Wild recordings of all time." Rock N´Rolf recaps his thoughts about the new album, the past and the future in a video message for the fans: www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMNzgdu-aFg. Shadowmaker will be released worldwide on Steamhammer/SPV in April 2012, a cooperation which the Running Wild captain refers to as "a real stroke of luck and ideal partnership". Rock'n'Rolf: "SPV/Steamhammer are a long-established label with an experienced team, so I know that Running Wild are in good hands. Besides, my band and the record company are based in the same german city (Hannover), which can't be a disadvantage for a smooth cooperation." Olly Hahn, A&R at Steamhammer/SPV, is equally delighted: "That a style-defining act such as Running Wild signed with us comes close to an accolade. Band leader Rock'n'Rolf is one of the metal scene's last originals, and we at SPV are unbelievably proud that his choice fell on us." WebLinks: www.running-wild.de / www.spv.de. THEOCRACY: "30 PIECES OF SILVER" DIGITAL SINGLE ANNOUNCED: The Athens, Georgia-based melodic metal band Theocracy will release the digital single "30 Pieces of Silver" on October 20th. The track comes off their up-coming album "As The World Bleeds" that will be released on November 25th in Europe through Ulterium Records and on November 21st in North America through Nightmare Records. The album will also be released as a double gatefold vinyl edition, strictly limited to 500 copies worldwide. Check out an album teaser for "As The World Bleeds" at YouTube: youtu.be/lRqVm0eLt68. For more information on Theocracy; Official website: www.theocracymusic.com / Official facebook page: www.facebook.com/theocracyband. ROB MANCINI RETURNS: After almost a decade of recording abstinence, touring the Irish Club scene, Irelands German-Italian born rock musician and producer, Rob Mancini is back on track with the smash hit, Edge Of A Broken Heart and the powerful ballad Every time you Cry from his new album Rock'n'Roll Circus. Rob played extensively on the international rock circuit in the mid 90 s with "Hotwire" & "Crush", recording several albums and sharing the stage with artists such as Victory, Thunderhead, Dare etc. before moving to Ireland in 2001 to work as studio and session musician. Promo trailer Edge Of A Broken Heart: www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhJOLAgAOKg. Promo trailer Every Time You Cry: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASb1P9XpYWs Band: Rob Mancini – Guitars, Bass, Synth & Programming, Backing Vocals; Aine Mancini – Backing Vocals; Mastering by Harry Hess at Vespa Music Group Canada. WebLinks: www.robmancinirock.com / www.reverbnation.com/robmancinirock. KENNY SCOTT WORKS WITH STIRLING ROAD: Artist/Songwriter/Producer Kenny Scott from Swirl 360 is currently working with the pop-rock group Stirling Road on a new single titled Without You. The track, written by Scott and Stirling Road's Matthew Shad, should see a release before the new year. The band's self-titled debut was released last year and has won fans over worldwide with their blend of soaring harmonies, blazing guitar work and refreshing songwriting. Now, with the production genius of Kenny Scott, the band is modernizing it's pop-rock sound even more. WebLinks: www.stirlingroadmusic.com / www.facebook.com/pages/Stirling-Road/273862475792.   MELODIC BRIEFS: A new Danny Vaughn interview: metalshrineblogg.blogspot.com/2011/10/intervju-med-danny-vaughn-i-tyketto-jag.html#links. Topics include the new Tyketto album, getting into music, the New Jersey scene back in the day, recording the first album, writing songs and more. News on new Saga w/the return of Michael Sadler on official site under 'news' section – January release date, also some song titles: www.sagaontour.ca. The Grand Design song Your Love's A Runaway from the album Idolizer is up for streaming: www.youtube.com/watch?v=myQEI6HolT0. SLAVE TO THE FINGERS - JOE MATERA: 2011 has turned out to be quite a big year for Australian rock guitarist Joe Matera. Both his solo instrumental single 'Face Off' and his guest solo spot on UK metal legends Atomkraft's 'Cold Sweat' release, brought Matera's highly energetic, melodic and tasteful guitar playing to a wider international audience. Taking note of Matera's guitar prowess was European based label W.A.R Productions whom quickly signed Matera to a deal which sees Matera's new all electric solo instrumental EP Slave To The Fingers receiving a European CD release. Slave To The Fingers features four brand new studio tracks, all showcasing Matera's six string talents at its best. The EP begins in bombastic fashion with a brief balls to the wall rocking interlude before Matera's tasteful melodic playing takes center stage on the title track 'Slave To The Fingers'. Underscored by some eclectic styling, the track also features a special guest appearance by guitarist Mick McConnell from legendary rock band Smokie who contributes a breathtaking guitar solo on the track. 'Cruise Control', leads the charge as the EP's first single and is a soaring melodious affair, peppered by harmony guitars and a spirit recalling the halcyon days of 1970's classic guitar rock. 'Out Of The Blue' shifts things into overdrive, with Matera's harder rocking elements coming to the fore, for an all out sonic ear assault before 'Face Off', Matera's first all electric instrumental single from earlier this year, and here being issued for the first time on CD, closes the EP majestically. The tight, rocking rhythm section backing Matera on Slave To The Fingers is comprised of Englishman Tony 'Demolition' Dolan (Venom, Atomkraft) on bass and American James Strickler (Angellic Rage) on drums. Slave To The Fingers is officially released November 28 through W.A.R Productions (Europe) and Mercury Fire Music (Australia). WebLinks: www.facebook.com/W.A.R.Production / www.joematera.com.

 

 

Friday, October 21, 2011

LATEST FROM ROCK CANDY OUT NOW: The following four new Rock Candy titles are available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price of £10.99 each for the next two weeks ending on 6th November. Lone Star 'S/T' / The 1970s were a decade when anything was permissible. If you wanted your music to sound big, bold and brazen you were positively encouraged to make as much bluster as humanly possible. Step forward Lone Star, a Welsh six piece trumpeted by those in the know as the next big thing, bigger in fact than Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Queen. CBS certainly thought so when they signed them to a contract before they had even played a solitary live show. Issued in 1976, Lone Star's debut album took, what is now termed, pomp rock by the scruff of the neck and delivered a record that knocked the competition sideways. Produced by famously flamboyant studio wizard Roy Thomas Baker (Queen, Foreigner, Journey) it displayed a sound that utilised everything and the kitchen sink – bombastic and grandiose, no stone was left unturned to achieve maximum sonic effect. Indeed, it was a record that found media cognoscenti such as Alan Freeman, Geoff Barton, Nicky Horne and John Peel falling over themselves to recommend it. Everything about this record is so right, so impressive and so gigantically over the top that nothing has come close to its grandeur since. Featuring future UFO guitarist Paul Chapman and containing such highfalutin tracks as 'Flying In The Reel', 'Spaceships', 'A Million Stars' and a monster interpretation of the Beatles 'She Said, She Said', the album scores a suitably impressive eleven on a ten scale. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 5 previously unreleased bonus tracks, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album, interview with the band and additional photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. She Said, She Said 2. Lonely Soldier 3. Flying In The Reel 4. Spaceships 5. A New Day 6. A Million Stars 7. Illusions. Bonus Tracks: 8. Flying In The Reel 9. A Million Stars 10. She Said, She Said 11. Hypnotic Mover 12. Spaceships. Lone Star 'Firing On All Six' / Lone Star's debut album had certainly put the cat amongst the pigeons when it came to unleashing one of the most impressive hard rock albums during the 70s. Praised by all, the band looked set to join the upper echelons of rock royalty nudging shoulders with Led Zeppelin, Queen and Deep Purple. Sadly, although praised to high heaven, sales failed to match expectations, a situation not helped by the departure of vocalist Kenny Driscoll. Fortunately, salvation was on hand with the recruitment of fellow Welshman, the previously unknown John Sloman who was arguably an even better stylistic fit than his predecessor. Musically, the band maintained a high calibre of creativity, crafting a record that was equal too, if not better than their debut. Indeed, in many respects Sloman's appointment galvanised the band to be even more ambitious, attracting fervent comparisons to Led Zeppelin and Queen at their imperial best. Featuring future UFO guitarist Paul Chapman and produced by Roy Thomas Baker engineer Gary Lyons (UFO, Aerosmith, Foreigner), the album boasts a number of superior tracks, including 'Hypnotic Mover', 'Lovely Lubina', 'The Ballad Of Crafty Jack' and the epic 'The Bells Of Berlin'. Sadly for Lone Star, all their talent and promise failed to attract commercial success. In another time and place Lone Star would have been giants amongst men and this album would have been the soundtrack to victory. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3 previously unreleased bonus tracks, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album, interview with the band and additional photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. The Bells Of Berlin 2. The Ballad Of Crafty Jack 3. Time Lays Down 4. Hypnotic Mover 5. Lovely Lubina 6. Seasons In Your Eyes 7. Rivers Overflowing 8. All Of Us To All Of You. Bonus Tracks: 9. The Bells Of Berlin 10. All Of Us To All Of You 11. Lonely Soldier.   xx Smashed Gladys 'Social Intercourse' / When it comes to trashy rock 'n roll there are several obvious contenders for the crown of kitsch; for example, you can finger point to the wasted ways of mega platinum poseurs such as Guns 'n Roses and Mötley Crüe but scratch beneath the surface and you'll unearth a number of also-rans that paid their dues on the highway to hell and back. Chief amongst these is Smashed Gladys, a widely revered New York based unit with cultural links to pioneering Big Apple anarchic rockers like Circus Of Power, The Throbs, Warrior Soul and the Cycle Sluts From Hell. Amazingly, Smashed Gladys were first talent spotted by Kiss bassist Gene Simmons who helped them produce a demo. Fronted by the wildly enigmatic Sally Cato, the band worked up a bad-as-can-be reputation on the club circuit which led to an impressive recording contract with Elektra Records, a label already committed to salacious sleaze rock having Mötley Crüe and Faster Pussycat on their books. Produced by Ric Browde (Poison, Faster Pussycat) and originally issued in 1988, 'Social Intercourse' was immediately hailed as a minor glam sleaze classic, attracting mouth watering reviews and an acknowledgement that Smashed Gladys were teetering on the edge of something very special indeed. Sadly, through no fault of their own, success slipped through their grasp, leaving us with little more than a glance at what could have been. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album, new interview and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Lick It Into Shape 2. 17 Goin' On Crazy3. Play Dirty 4. Dive In The Dark 5. Eye Of The Storm 6. Hard To Swallow 7. Legs Up 8. Eye For An Eye 9. Cast Of Nasties 10. Sermonette. Armored Saint 'Delirious Nomad' / When the history of Heavy Metal is finally written, Armored Saint will be remembered as a band that should have joined the elite platinum club, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Metallica, Anthrax, Megadeth and Slayer. Tipped by those who know such things, they displayed both the promise and the talent to springboard them to worldwide success yet, for a number of frustrating reasons, it was not to be. 'March Of The Saint', the band's debut album, was a competent introduction for sure, but was hampered by an arguably incompatible production, and a label not fully versed in the fine art of marketing metal to the masses. Taking matters into their own hands for 'Delirious Nomad', they enlisted the help of seasoned producer Max Norman (Ozzy Osbourne, Megadeth) and set to work creating the album that they should have recorded all along. Taped in Los Angeles, the sessions progressed well but not without a degree of angst, particularly when guitarist Phil Sandoval was asked to step aside, reducing the band's compliment to a quartet. For all that, 'Delirious Nomad' remains, for most people, the band's high point, in a career that has lasted on and off for the best part of thirty years. Max Norman's production is crisp yet crushing, whilst the band's attack and energy level is through the roof. That the songs are truly impressive is indeed the icing on the cake. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3,500 word essay about the making of the album, 2 bonus tracks, new interview with the band and additional photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Long Before I Die 2. Nervous Man 3. Over The Edge 4. The Laugh 5. Conqueror 6. For The Sake Of Heaviness 7. Aftermath 8. In The Hole 9. You're Never Alone 10. Released Bonus Tracks 11. The Laugh (Demo) 12. You're Never Alone (Rough Mix).   xx ROYAL HUNT - FUTURE'S COMING FROM THE PAST FIRST OFFICIAL TRAILER: Royal Hunt - Future's Coming From The Past First Official Trailer -   FACTORY OF DREAMS AIMS AT PROJECT CREATION: Hugo Flores is officially working on the new installment of the Project Creation series, and also on a brand new (4th) Factory of Dreams album. Project Creation will focus on the continuation of the previous episode ­ Dawn on Pyther ­ with new discoveries including a new planet with a hidden city, an intelligent ocean and much more. Hugo is counting on the great musicians and singers that gave the epic sound of Project Creation, and also new performers to join in! Factory of Dreams fourth album will be a concept album, a sci-fi adventure, where Earth is invaded by something quite unique... Epic stuff coming in our way, with Hugo Flores, Jessica Lehto and some huge surprises! Artwork for both albums will also be handled by Melotronical's art designer 'Iribel': iribel.deviantart.com/#/d39jgxl. Follow all the developments on the official Facebook @ www.facebook.com/fdofficial. Meanwhile, Factory of Dreams video is nearly hitting 100.000 plays, check it out: youtu.be/uLQhutpXbCo?hd=1. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Saxon - Apollo - Glasgow, Scotland, 11.02.1984 (FM Broadcast) - Kiss - Live - Houston 85 - Australian Crawl - Final Wave (The Last Show, 1986) Join MRX now and help support MelodicRock.com.

 

 

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

BEGGARS & THIEVES KEEP THEIR COMEBACK PROMISE WITH WE ARE THE BROKENHEARTED: Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of the anticipated new Beggars & Thieves album entitled We Are the Brokenhearted on November 29 in North America and December 2 in Europe. Beggars & Thieves debuted on Atlantic Records in 1990 with their self-titled album, a record that was critically acclaimed with the first single appearing in the top 40 Billboard Magazine Album Rock Charts and being added to rotation on over 100 Parallel One AOR radio stations. The change of musical climate, and the advent of grunge, halted the band's rise to the stardom when their new label Epic Records decided not to release Beggars & Thieves second studio album "Look What You Create", written and produced in collaboration with Jim Vallance (Aerosmith, Bryan Adams, The Scorpions, Heart, etc.). In the late 90's Beggars & Thieves finally independently released "Look What You Create" followed by "The Grey Album" in 1999, before going into hibernation until 2004 when the founding members - singer Louie Merlino and guitarist Ronnie Mancuso - started to play again in the Sin City All-Star's with guitarist, Brent Muscat (Faster Pussycat) and drummer, Lez Warner (The Cult), opening shows for Tesla, Vince Neil, Ratt, Slaughter, and Skid Row. "That and the amazing internet support from the European Melodic Rock community pretty much set the stage for reforming Beggars" recalls Ronnie. Indeed one of the highlights during the last five years was Beggars & Thieves participation at Firefest 2010 in Nottingham, UK. "I don't think we realized that our music meant so much to so many people. The first time we played Firefest and everybody was singing the lyrics, it just blew Louie and me away" continues Mancuso. "Right from the start we had offers to do another album, but it wasn't until I partnered up with producer/engineer Kevin Churko while he was producing Ozzy, that I knew by combining our studios and his engineering and mixing skills, we could make an album that competed on the level of anything being released at the time". The resulting new album We Are The Brokenhearted promises to firmly position the band on the map for all Hard Rock fans worldwide. In Merlino's words: "We wanted to make a Pink Floyd "Dark Side of the Moon" or a U2 "Joshua Tree" and that is a huge commitment. I'm not saying we achieved it. But that was the level of passion and effort that was put into making "We Are The Brokenhearted". I think the new songs show our potential to be a truly classic band and we both feel strongly that this is the best work we have ever done. We just hope people get the chance and take the time to really listen and absorb this as an album: This is an album designed to be listened to as a whole entity, not in shuffle mode on an iPod.  We Are The Brokenhearted proves that great music is timeless. It's as fresh as it is familiar. Merlino continues: "This isn't just some guys trying to have a little fun reliving the past. We got a good ten years left, we aren't messing around, we are deadly serious. We want to compete with the big boys" and with the quality of this album they just might get their chance! We Are the Brokenhearted includes the following tracks: We Come Undone; Oil & Water; Innocence; Never Gonna See You Again; Beautiful Losers; Seven Seconds; Stranded; Wash Away; Midnight Blue; We Are The Brokenhearted. The first single We Come Undone can be exclusively listened in full streaming on the Frontiers Records web radio. Tune in at www.frontiers.it/webradio. Weblinks: www.beggarsnthieves.com / www.frontiers.it.   xx CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: A big special day for previews today, as the most incredible year for music since 1990 gets even better! Mecca's sophomore album Undeniable has been anticipated for a few years now, but the day of release is closing in. And what a cracking album it is. A different beast than the debut album, but equally as classy and most definitely equally as impressive. The personal nature of this album and the intense musical landscape within cannot easily be summed up in 1 minute soundbytes, but check it out for now anyway. This is another melodic monster! Chris Ousey, Tommy Denander and Mike Slamer all at their very best. Monster sound, some of the best songs Chris has been involved in, and an original sound, mixing Heartland with Slamer and Radioactive. This will impress! Matt Alfonzetti returns to his best melodic rock roots with a powerful, punchy melodic hard rock record. Filled with songs that really shine after getting to know them. A few real melodic gems. Definitely for fans of his Ready album. More great Swedish melodic hard rock. A solid album with a few really amazing songs. The best of Leverage, yet far more melodic. Amanda Somerville (Kiske/Somerville) and Sascha Paeth's new project. Melodic metal... Third album, third singer for the US hard rockers. A different sound again for the guys. To check out all these CD Showcases, click on the album covers above or click here. MECCA TRACK BY TRACK FROM JOE VANA: To accompany the launch of the Mecca Showcase, frontman/songwriter/founder of Mecca, Joe Vana has typed out a detailed track by track commentary of the tracks within Undeniable. Read on... Joe: "This album is a series of events over a 7 year period. It is my life, the search for a better life and all the trial and tribulations in between. Tommy Denander and Christian Wolff went on this ride with me in all ways as songwriting partners and friends... I kept sending versions of tunes to Andrew to get his vibe...sometimes 7 versions of 1 single tune [Yeah, thanks Joe!]....then one day it just happened... Chuck Macak and Mark Alano (and my son Joey) as Co-producers helped me mold, create and keep continuity throughout....As for the inspiration for these songs, she will remain forever in my heart and soul... This album was COMPLETELY re-recorded THREE times completely...On the third run, this intact band melded together and created amazing landscapes... And finally Mecca II Undeniable was complete. 1 - Perfect World - The story begins, the world can be a happy place yet "life's just one big pie, that never leaves a crumb"...we all search for the Perfect World, yet it alludes us all...this was the first track I wrote with Tommy D...Tony Levin's Bass track is immense...and Eric Ragno showed me what a keyboardist truly is....cement....a true pro... 2 - Closing Time - "You open all the doors I see, only to shut them all on me" Relationships can turn on a dime, this song shows the fragility a relationship can have. The relationship had closed, and it was "Closing Time"....written as closure on a marriage that had ended...Mark Alano my co-producer plays guitar on this track, and he was born for this one. 3 - 10Life (Ten Lifetimes) - "I open up the paper and I see, the world's filled with a bunch of people like me..." The first song written for the album, the first of many collaborations with Christian Wolff and myself. Ten Lifetimes represents the beginning of a new relationship...and one that continues, I am a private guy with my relationships...but she drove this album front to back. Listen to the bass lines by Wally Hustin on this track, magic. 4 - Life's Too Short - "Burning bridges, sometimes we can't go back, missed opportunities, sometimes it's all we lack" A perfect blend of Wolff and Denander on this one....I wrote this one based in reality... We NEVER realize what we have until it's gone...when my friend Dr. Bryan Mitchell died unexpectedly the meaning of this song took on new meaning... Live life, don't let it live you....Levin's Chapman stick is something of legend; he does not disappoint on this track.... 5 - I Know - "But then they soon do see, it's not easy being me, but I'm always the last man standing" This song is about the quest for excellence in the face of overwhelming odds.... When everyone is against you, when all say you can never do it....you push on and succeed. Brian Moritz killed on the keys on this one...When my son and I did the backgrounds and I looked over at him after our first take I knew I was screwed...my kid was a pro already, and music was his life....I want him to do other things, and he will....but his path was predetermined. 6 - Did it For Love - "When ya see the world through my eyes, you see I live my life with no compromise" This song is written for all the artists out there who bust their ass, and sometimes are not home as much as we would like. A true labor of love we say....music has to be about MUSIC....NOT money...when it becomes that, you to me become all I dislike about this business. I will do this for free forever, this is NEVER about anything but ART...Rick Vitek my drummer extraordinaire should get a writing credit. His drums took this song to the top of the heap...I knew when Tommy and I wrote this in Dr. B's studio that this song would be special...but until Rick played his one take drum clinic on this did it take life....I wanted a band sound, and now I had it...Joey and I on backgrounds really shakes this tune to the core....Christian's solo is way coooool... 7 - From the Start - A song about a guy in turmoil...all is shutting around him....he look's for a reason why relationships are so hard..."Patches of the past begin to make themselves appear"....Sometimes when in a relationship you know you will have pain, BUT, the pain is worth the reward....Tommy Denander plays the finest solo of his life on this track...bar none...his rhythm playing with my son is majestic as well... 8 - Deceptive Cadence - "So when the night has taken all that I can make, the life I've made is your to take" He finally has gotten a grip on his emotions, and knows no matter what, he has found his soulmate.... My favorite song I have ever written and produced....the ONLY time a song has sounded exactly like I wanted...Pat Mastelotto made it happen...his drums on this track are amazing...and the 3 minute outro with he and Levin is stunning...Paul Pisciotto really sets the tone with his sythns on this.... 9 - W2W - I wanted one song that was not so serious and a bit light hearted...I am into fast cars, here it is.... 10 - Undeniable - "But as I look back now the sound keeps ringing true, the things that got me here leads me back to you" He lets her know that she is the one...he has given her all he can, and knows without her he is lost.... Tommy Denander again plays a solo for the ages....and Joey gets the outro solo...Erik's keys, well lets just say nobody does it better... I chose to do the backgrounds, more personal... 11 - As I Walk Alone - "The end was near, what's left was fear...I never thought that I could reappear", "But the stories old...This books been told, it's happened many times, do I need to fold" he is nearing the possible end of his journey and asks God what he should do next...He thinks he is walking alone, but in the end he is not....guess who is walking with him???? I know it will just kill some there is NO drums, No guitars besides a solo...basically me and piano...but it is a personal song, and I felt it must be sparse....but Chuck and Mark fought to keep it like this....and I have to agree with them now.... I broke down twice while recording this song...and those parts are still on the final...a very tough one to get through.   THREE AND A HALF LETTERS FROM CHICKENFOOT: To coincide with the UK release of Chickenfoot's highly anticipated second album III (Oct 24) and the recent announcement of two UK concerts in January 2012, this week the band have released a new video for the single Three and a Half Letters. Watch the video below. Featuring guitar hero Joe Satriani, former Van Halen vocalist Sammy Hagar and bassist Michael Anthony, and drummer Chad Smith; "Three and a Half Letters" is the second single to be taken from the band's new album. The song's poignant lyrics tackle the world's economy and current levels of unemployment. The lyrics are taken directly from letters written to Sammy Hagar, following a suggestion from his long standing manager, Carter, who sadly passed away earlier this year during the recording of the new album. "I've received letters from lots of people, mostly fans, but some people just needing help, looking for work," says Hagar. "Carter had told me to write a song called 'I Need a Job' six months prior but the idea didn't dawn on me until I received a letter from a guy who had just returned from Afghanistan. At the end of his letter he wrote: 'Can you help? I need a job'." Watch a podcast of the band talking about "Three and a half Letters" here: youtu.be/w8An5z6q5bE. Chickenfoot will perform two UK concerts in January 2012 as part of a 5-date European tour; dates include Manchester Academy (Jan 12) and London's O Academy Brixton on (Jan 14), followed by concerts in Paris, Tilburg and Dusseldorf. These are the band's first European shows since July 2009, and will see them perform songs from their gold-selling eponymous debut album, alongside tracks from the new album 'III'. Tickets are available from: bit.ly/qs8Srm. Read the press release for the new album here. Read the press release for Chickenfoot's European concerts here.   NEW ALLOY EPK: Frontiers Records have uploaded the official EPK for the Trillium (Amanda Somerville) debut Alloy. And yes, there was an issue with yesterday's Warrant clip - it launched ok, but was asked to be removed from YouTube by the band for now, for future re-launch.   STEVE PERRY WILL CALL YOU!: October is Breast Cancer Awareness month! Fan Asylum has launched an eBay auction to raise awareness & funds to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Win a phone call from Steve Perry! Check out the auction and bid at: www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330628535238. KEE MARCELLO REDUX AND IN PRINT: Former Europe guitarist Kee Marcello will release his controversial autobiography, "The Rock Star God Forgot", in Sweden on October 19. Marcello just made headlines in the biggest Swedish newspaper with a painfully honest interview about the memoir, which is said to be "the first sex, drugs and rock and roll book ever written by a Swede." "The Rock Star God Forgot" is scheduled for release in the rest of the world in English during 2012. On October 21, Marcello will release an album, Redux: Europe, featuring several new tracks alongside modern, heavier-sounding re-recordings of hits from Marcello's previous bands Europe and Easy Action. Also scheduled for release on the same date are remastered and repackaged versions of Kee's two earlier albums, "Redux: Shine On" and "Redux: Melon Demon Divine". When asked why he chose to re-record Europe songs, Marcello said, "'Redux' is Latin for 'reclaim' or 'take back,' and that's what I'm doing here. These songs are part of my past and I wanted to bring them into the future." Redux: Europe will be released in the rest of the world on Friday, January 13, 2012. A video for the song "Redux: Europe" can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5eZnl69p2E. In early 2012, Kee Marcello will embark on a European tour with the following line-up: Kee Marcello: Lead Guitar, Lead Vocals; Jonny Scaramanga: Guitar; Ken Sandin: Bass; Paul White: Drums. WebLink: www.keemarcello.com.   MELODIC BRIEFS: A recent Oz interview with Joe Elliott at: www.tonedeaf.com.au/features/interviews/94906/def-leppard-2.htm. Bass player Steve Mach from NYC 80's band Skin-n-Bones was killed by police on Sunday of last week. A Facebook site has been established at: www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=h#!/pages/RIP-Steve-Mach/241681912546067. R.I.P. Steve. The Williams/Friestedt record was released in Japan during the recent Toto tour there. The CD features 3 new bonus tracks, 4 karaoke tracks and new artwork/liner notes by Toshikazu Kanasawa and is released by Vivid Sound.   xx DRAGON RETURN WITH NEW EP AND TOUR DATES: Press release: "Some muse that rock icons Dragon grew up with the Australian music scene and others affirm that it was Dragon that helped the scene grow up. Whatever the case, with hits flowing before Cold Chisel left the rehearsal room, before Icehouse had studied for their algebra finals, and before Australian Crawl had learnt to, Dragon had the nation captivated with "April Sun in Cuba", "Are You Old Enough?", "Get That Jive", "Still In Love With You" and more. The kings of the pub scene and emperors of excess, the band's live show was unsurpassed, and their rock n roll lifestyle will go down in music industry folklore for generations to come. Unlike their contemporaries, Dragon weren't happy with their 15 minutes, and continued to reinvent both the band and its sound. Re-emerging in the 80s, the band attacked the charts for a second time with "Rain", "Young Years", "Cry", "Celebration" and "Dreams of Ordinary Men" adding to the canon of radio staples which epitomise classic rock radio in the 21st Century. Not just a "singles band", Dragon's commitment to the full-length has been lauded with their classic "O Zambezi" making many of the various "best Australian albums" lists of recent years as a new generation discovers the band's artistic contribution. With over 40 members among its ranks over its 39 year history (including Marc and Todd Hunter, Tommy Emmanuel and XTC's Terry Chambers), the ARIA Hall of Fame inductees continue to be one of the country's most exciting live acts, continuing the tradition around founding member Todd Hunter and current vocalist Mark Williams (Show No Mercy). Williams joined the band in 2006 after the untimely passing of Marc Hunter, boasting the same amazing vocal range and energy, ensuring the Dragon light continues to shine. With some of the most classic tracks in the Australian music tome already under their belt, (including writing hits for others such as John Farnham's Age of Reason) Todd Hunter and the band are launching new EP "Chase the Sun", which is already heralding a new dawn for the act. Recorded by drummer Pete Drummond and vindicating the band's formula of strength in collaboration, the first single "21 (Heart of Gold)" is a classic work in the Dragon tradition, and heralds the third rebirth of an Australian music institution. 2011 sees the release of a biography of Marc Hunter, with Jeff Apter's "Chasing the Dragon" out in November through Hardie Grant books, supported by another run of fire-breathing Dragon live shows in the lead up to next year's 40 year anniversary celebrations for the band. Chase The Sun Tour 2011 October 20: The Vanguard, Sydney October 21: Canberra Casino, ACT October 22: Manly Boatshed, Sydney November 10: Tempo Hotel, Brisbane November 12: Lone Star Tavern, Gold Coast November 19: Beaches, Wollongong November 25: Brass Monkey, Cronulla December 2: Lizottes, Newcastle December 3: Lizottes, Kincumber December 4: Lizottes, Dee Why

 

 

ONLINE NOW - THE 2009/2010 MELROCK AWARDS

I have finally rolled the Best Of 2009 & 2010 into some kind of presentation and now offer it up to those left that still care! Too many excuses to go into why this hasn't been possible to get completed until now, but the most relevant one is that business is simply so hard and so challenging that I have spent all my spare time chasing sponsors, money and whatever else it is I do that keeps the site running. Not too much time left over for fun - like putting together these lists. But...as my old adage goes...it's never too late to discover new quality music! ENTER THE 2009/2010 MELROCK AWARDS PAGE

 

 

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

YOUTUBE CLIP SHOWCASES NEW WARRANT SINGLE FROM ROCKAHOLIC ALBUM: Frontiers Records has launched the latest round up of the label's October releases - all out now.   RETROACTIVE RECORDS TO RELEASE RE MASTERED MASS 'NEW BIRTH': Mass New Birth was originally released on cassette and vinyl in 1985 on RCA Records, this album was nearly impossible to find through the 1990's up until 2007 when the Nevada based secular metal reissues label Retrospect Records finally put out a CD reissue. Now in 2011 the Iowa based Christian label, Retroactive Records has reissued this heavy metal gem with impeccable packaging faithful to the original vinyl release (6 panel DigiPack with lyrics and a special message from vocalist Louis St. August). Retroactive and the band also went to great lengths to have the album mastered from the original tapes for the first time ever, opting for the magic of the ten original tracks. New Birth (Anniversary Remasters Edition) ensures this album has never sounded so clear, so powerful, and so pristine giving the reissue the audio perfection it deserves - for the first time ever. Watch promo at: youtu.be/UPzccgypYm4 / www.massrocks.com. DEF LEPPARD AND DIAMOND EYE ON AUS TELETHON: Diamond Eye capped off a stellar week with an appearance on Perth, Western Australia's Channel 7 Telethon charity broadcast on Sunday, getting the studio audience excited with a blazing rendition of 'Sound Of The Guns', the title track to their new EP and recent nominee for the Western Australian Music Industry's Song Of The Year ­ Metal category. Diamond Eye's Telethon performance is now available for viewing via YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0j2rOue1mw. Channel 7's Telethon, now in it's 33rd year, has raised over $103 million for charity, and this year featured special guest headliners Def Leppard, who rescheduled their Australian tour dates in order to take part. Telethon crossed live to Def Leppard's Saturday night Perth concert, and the band performed an acoustic rendition of 'Two Steps Behind' in the studio to close out the telecast, which raised over 13 million dollars for charity. www.youtube.com/watch?v=zigQ4-Jx1Y0. UNIVERSAL JAPAN GOES RE-ISSUE CRAZY: Universal Japan has gone crazy and announced a whole slew of CD re-issues, all on the high-fidelity SHM-CD format (compatible with standard CD players). All titles use recent masters for the audio o- but none have been especially remastered again for these releases. The titles include: Yngwie J.Malmsteen's Rising Force - "Yngwie J. Malmsteen's Rising Force," "Marching Out," "Trilogy," "Odyssey," "Trial By Fire: Live In Leningrad," "Eclipse." Def Leppard - "On Through The Night," "High N' Dry," "Adrenalize." Kiss - "Animalize," "Asylum," "Crazy Nights," "Hot In The Shade." TNT - "Knights Of The New Thunder," "Tell No Tales," "Intuition." Scorpions - Crazy World Night Ranger - Man In Motion To order any of these titles, go to: CD Japan. ELECTRIC EARTH TEAM UP WITH BEAU HILL: Sweden's Electric Earth will release an exclusive digital (single) version of "Free Fall", a track from their new album "Touching The Void", on Monday 16 October. It will be available from all the major digital stores. What makes this version special is that it's mixed/produced by well known American producer Beau Hill, famous for his work with for instance Ratt, Alice Cooper, Twisted Sister, Gary Moore and Europe. The band is really pleased with the result and hope to be able to work with him again in the future. Electric Earth will be one of the bands that will participate on the upcoming Whitesnake-tribute "Still Of The Night: A Millennium Tribute to Whitesnake", which will be released by Versailles Records later this year. They have recorded a cover of "Young Blood", the opening track on the "Saints and Sinners" album. Electric Earth has also given away "Amplification", the opening track on "Touching The Void", to an upcoming Swedish compilation from which all profit will go to the homeless. At the official website, www.electricearth1.com, you can sign up for the bands newsletter/mail list. If you do so you can, immediately, download a handful of tracks (two of them are from "Touching The Void") for free! In addition you will, during the following months, be able to download one song per month from the band. It can be demo tracks, alternative mixes, cover songs or songs from the member's old bands. On the website you can also listen to, and download, more music by Electric Earth. MAY, SATRIANI, WILSON, RODGERS FEATURED IN 'BOHEMIAN RHAPSODIES' QUEEN BOOK: As Rock N Roll Books presses forward toward the Nov. 24 release of 'Bohemian Rhapsodies: True And Authorized Tales By Queen Fans & Celebrities', compiled by Robyn Dunford with Kelly Franco, and authorized by Queen, the publisher is excited to announce that among other legendary rockers contributing exclusive commentary in the form of everything from personal memories to thoughts on Freddie and Queen's legacy (both in terms of its historical and continued relevance) on rock, legendary Heart singer Ann Wilson, Queen lead guitarist Brian May, Bad Company/Free/Queen vocalist Paul Rodgers, and living guitar legend Joe Satriani have all contributed exclusive commentary that will highlight the book's back cover! The publisher, www.rocknrollbooks.com, has also launched a variety of social media platforms behind the book, including a Twitter account devoted to the release of this book, which fans can visit at Twitter.com/BohRhapsodiesbk, and a Facebook page that fans can check out at: www.facebook.com/pages/BohemianRhapsodies/252632061447449?skip_nax_wizard=true. SANTAGATA RECORDING UPDATE: Santagata is slated to contribute the track Suicide Solution to the Versailles Records release No More Tears: A Millennium tribute to Ozzy Osbourne due for release early 2012, as well as having contributed the track Too Late For Love to the forthcoming Def Leppard tribute Hysteria: A Millennium tribute to Def Leppard which should see release late 2011. If you visit the "band profile" tab on the band's Facebook page: www.facebook.com/santagatamusic, there are 15 FREE song downloads, so check it out! Santagata is in writing mode with 10 new songs almost completely written awaiting to be recorded for release in early 2012.

 

 

Monday, October 17, 2011

PREVIEW SONG FROM NEW RIOT ALBUM: Riot are justifiably proud of their upcoming release. As bassist Don Van Stavern says: "Immortal Soul picks up where 'Thundersteel' left off, 20 years later! It has the same intensity, creativeness and passion that we put into our music. It's another ball buster and I can't wait to unleash it on the masses." Immortal Soul sees Tony Moore, Mark Reale, Don Van Stavern and Bobby Jarzombek – the line-up responsible for the band's hugely acclaimed 'Thundersteel' (1988) and 'The Privilege Of Power' (1990) albums – re-united once more, together with Mike Flyntz who as the additional live guitarist helped bring these two acclaimed albums to life on stage. To give the fans a taste of what to expect, the song Still Your Man will be revealed today on Soundcloud: soundcloud.com/steamhammer-spv/riot-still-your-man. Guitarist Mike Flyntz is equally as enthusiastic. "I have been performing the songs from the 'Thundersteel' era for over 21 years. It has been an honour to write and record 'Immortal Soul' with Tony, Don, Bobby, and Mark. I am very proud of my contribution to this record and also very proud to play along with such inspirational musicians. I hope everyone enjoys this album as much as I do." For drummer Bobby Jarzombek, "'Immortal Soul' is a special record for me because in all the years that I've been playing and recording various projects, I've never been completely involved in any other CD from the very first day of writing, to the very last day of mixing. I'm really looking forward to the live shows, and including some new 'Immortal Soul' songs into the set along with the Riot classics!" Founding member and guitarist Mark Reale, who has been Riot's guiding force since the band released 'Rock City' over thirty years ago, is quick to pay tribute to vocalist Tony Moore's input. "To me, the close collaboration with each of our vocalists has always been the decisive aspect in any Riot release. That's why it was absolutely inspiring for me at the studio that Tony directly took up many of my ideas and translated them brilliantly, or contributed his own suggestions from which our songs benefited greatly. He is simply the perfect Riot frontman!" And as Tony Moore himself points out, "It's been nearly a quarter of a century since the five of us assembled in New York to create 'Thundersteel' and 'The Privilege Of Power', and the music world couldn't be more different. The internet led us not only to discover that those albums had taken a special place in the history of metal, but also put us back in touch – and the result is 'Immortal Soul', an album that is100% true to the legacy of those 1980s recordings. It's also packed with evidence of how we've all grown and changed as artists. It was recorded in five studios, in three different cities, and it's absolutely a product of the most important changes in the recording industry over the last 20 years. We're looking forward to sharing the details with our fans and friends around the world, along with the music. Enjoy!" "Immortal Sin" Limited Digipak incl. 2 Bonus Tracks (please see attached photo) 1. Riot 2. Still Your Man 3. Crawling 4. Wings Are For Angels 5. Fall Before Me 6. Sins Of The Father 7. Majestica 8. Immortal Soul 9. Insanity 10. Whiskey Man 11. Believe 12. Echoes 13. Johnny`s Back (live) bonus track 14. Metal Soldiers (live) bonus track. JOHNNY'S BACK and METAL SOLDIERS recorded live at Sweden Rock Festival, June 6th, 2009, Sölvesborg, Sweden. "Immortal Sin" will also be released as double gatefold LP in coloured vinyl with printed innersleeves, standard jewel version and download. For more info go to: www.riotrockcity.com / www.facebook.com/pages/riotrockcity / www.spv.de.   NEW ALBUM FROM EX-STRANGEWAYS SINGER TONY LIDDLE BAND: Tony Liddle has fronted many bands and has undertaken world tours with legendary musicians including: 60's super group 'The Animals', 'Oliver/Dawson's Saxon', 'The Tygers of Pang Tang', 'Strangeways' and American rock band 'Liddle/Rush and Thrall'. He has also been produced by Kevin Elson, record producer for the legendary American band 'Journey'. At this time Tony fronts his own 4- piece band, performing a commercial set of classic rock tunes. Tony is also an accomplished songwriter and record producer, releasing more than 30 solo albums during his career. Malcolm Gerrie, TV producer for Channel 4's classic music show 'The Tube' and BBC's 'Top of The Pops', hailed Tony Liddle the 'greatest singer the north has ever produced' after appearing on The Tube. In April/May 2011, The Tony Liddle Band went to Texas to record their new CD Texas Resurrection and is now available on their own Strangestreet label via Amazon.com on cd and download. The Tony Liddle Band is… Tony Liddle (Vocals, Guitar), Ade Fisher (Lead Guitar, B.Vocs) George Defty (Drums) John Bradford (Bass/B, vocs). DARYL HALL GOES SOLO FOR 47th EDITION OF LIVE FROM DARYL'S HOUSE: NEW YORK, Oct. 14, 2011—Daryl Hall gets the "last laugh" on a very special edition of Live from Daryl's House with the first of a two-part series spotlighting songs from his recent Verve Forecast solo album, Laughing Down Crying on the 47th and latest edition of the award-winning web series, premiering Oct. 15 exclusively at www.lfdh.com. This month's special installment of the Webby and MTV O Music award-winning Internet series, which made its nationally syndicated TV broadcast debut on most of the country's top markets last month, finds Hall going it alone on a five-song set that includes the title track, "Talking to Myself," "Eyes for You" and "Save Me" and "Lifetime of Love." The episode will also feature March Fry, Daryl's step-daughter, singing background vocals, which she also did on the album. "I came up with that title, probably invented it, to describe that emotional turmoil," explains Daryl about Laughing Down Crying, his fifth solo studio album, and first since 1997's Can't Stop Dreaming. "It's about being in both places at once, emotionally wired and depressed, confused and frustrated." "Why now?" asks Daryl rhetorically about the almost 14-year wait between solo efforts. "Why not now? At this point, I feel like my present and future, in a creative sense, is me." The five-song set includes the title track "Laughing Down Crying," which Hall calls "my Fender Telecaster sound." "Talking to Myself" is a nod to Daryl's motto of "don't fear the '80s," he laughs. "Anybody can tell it's me after the first 10 seconds, when my vocals come in." "Lifetime of Love," one of his final collaborations with T-Bone Wolk, confronts the "ups and downs in my emotional life," while "Eyes for You" has "an amazing funk groove" which is unmistakably Daryl-esq. "Save Me" is a secular gospel song about going from "an isolated, solitary person" to being a person who feels the need to get it right, once and for all." Allmusic called the album "the work of a master musician doing what he does best—writing and performing beautifully crafted pop songs in terrific form—while proving that not only does he have plenty left to say in the new millennium, but has everything it takes to compete in the marketplace." The past four years have marked a steady stream of superlatives and recognition for Live from Daryl's House, with Hall receiving a Webby Award for Best Variety series from more than 10,000 entries at the 14th annual ceremony two years ago at N.Y.'s Cipriani Wall Street before garnering an O Music Award from MTV earlier this year. The show is syndicated nationally by Good Cop Bad Cop Productions in association with Scott Sternberg Productions and distributor Trifecta Entertainment & Media. Executive producers for the show include Hall and Scott Sternberg along with Daryl Hall manager Jonathan Wolfson. FIREFEST PROGRAMMES AVAILABLE FOR PRE-SALE: The Firefest 2011 festival programme is available for pre-sale at the Shop in www.thefirefest.com. This high quality, art paper 32-page full colour programme has in-depth articles on every band playing, complete with running times, band line-up and full discographies. Selling for £7 on the day, you can buy for £7 (inc postage) UK, or £8 (inc postage) Europe. Please support the Festival and the music you love by buying in advance or on the day. Heck, even if you're not going, at a limited run of 500 this is sure to be a much sought after collector's item in years to come. T-shirts and hoodies still on sale till early this week.   SWEET SOUNDS MUSIC FEST 1 THANK YOU: Sweet Sounds Music wants to thank all the bands who rocked at the SweetSounds Rockfest 1 in St. Louis, MO on Sat Oct 15, 2012 - great crowd and killer bands! SweetSounds Rockfest 2 has now been confirmed for Sat April 28, 2012 at the Penny Road Pub in South Barrington, IL (Chicago). Confirmed at press so far includes VH1s That Metal Show host and comedian Jim Floentine, movie star Matt Berman (MIB3, Boardwalk Empire and others), plus hard rockers Strikeforce (St. Louis) and Lynch (Chicago). Jim Florentine will do a comedy show and introduce all bands at fest! Bands interested in playing the SweetSounds Rockfest 2 in Chicago contact www.sweetsounds.us. TRIUMPH'S MIKE LEVINE TO APPEAR ON CAFFEINE BOMB: Triumph bassist Mike Levine will appear on this week's edition of Caffeine Bomb. Make sure you tune in at 7:00 p.m. EST on Monday, October 17th, to 91.7 FM WHUS in Eastern Connecticut, also streaming at WHUS.org. Caffeine Bomb is hosted by Roger Lotring, an author and freelance music journalist whose work has appeared in the pages of Metal Hammer, Metal Edge, Classic Rock, Revolver, Shock Wave, Zero and Burn magazines, and at ESPN.com and CMJ.com. Roger is the co-author of "Full Metal Jackie Certified: The 50 Most Influential Heavy Metal Songs of the '80s and the True Stories Behind Their Lyrics". He is also the author of various CD liner notes, including the Motley Crue box set, Music to Crash Your Car To, Volume 2. 91.7 WHUS is a commercial-free college and community-based radio station broadcasting from the University of Connecticut. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/CaffeineBomb.radio or WHUS.org. MELODIC BRIEFS: A brand new interview with former Giuffria/Dirty White Boy vocalist David Glenn Eisley can be viewed at: rockshowcritique.com/2011/10/interview-dge/. New interviews online now at RockEyez - Issa: www.rockeyez.com/interviews/2011-10-issa/int-2011-10-bmr-issa.html and Xorigin's Johannes Stole: www.rockeyez.com/interviews/2011-09-xorigins/int-2011-09-bmr-xorigins-johannes-stole.html. A new Video Clip for Myland can be viewed now: www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=PKYAheKTVqk. Jacob Guajardo's new single, "Time To Believe", has just been released. This new song has been written by Jacob and produced by Fran Rodriguez (Nexx, Octaine). Guest musicians are Mike Rodenbaugh (Octaine) at the guitars and Michael Geiser (Octaine) at the bass. Following the debut single "You'll Be Missed", "Time To Believe" is another step in this new Jacob's project which is not album oriented but song oriented. Not backed by any record label, Jacob is releasing single after single and putting them directly for sale at his website: www.reverbnation.com/jacobguajardo where Jacob's mp3 store has just opened. You can listen to "Time To Believe" at www.reverbnation.com/jacobguajardo and see the YouTube micro-video created by Pablo Punzon at www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hg7OwYTRpg8. HEAVY MUSIC MAGAZINE: Heavy is an Aussie independent quarterly 'heavy' music magazine; produced by people who live for their music. Contributors are musicians, Music Journos, industry professionals and die-hard fans. Heavy was created to help emerging Australian underground 'heavy' talent, as well as featuring high-profile International and Australian acts in the heavy music scene. Heavy has a strong focus on providing industry tips, up to date information and advice from music professionals. Inside each issue: Emerging Australian Underground talent / High profile International & Australian talent / Chicks in Music – interviews with women making their mark in the 'heavy' scene / Rockin 'How To' guides from the industry pros including: o Strings & Skins o Engineering/Production o DIY advice for musicians o Grants/Funding opportunities. Advertising inquiries & Expressions of Interest from freelancers, send your submissions to: info@heavymag.com.au. WebLinks: www.heavymag.com.au / www.facebook.com/#!/heavymag / twitter.com/#!/HEAVYmagAU. OCEANS OF NIGHT RELEASE DOMAIN: DOMAIN is the second CD release from progressive metal band, Oceans of Night. Mixed and mastered by Joey Vera (Fates Warning, Armored Saint, Engine) Domain features a refined focus on the staples of the Oceans of Night sound: soaring vocal melodies, evocative guitar solos, sophisticated rhythm structures, and dynamic song arrangements wrapped in a tapestry of percolating ambience. Epic and cutting edge, this is music that makes a bold and powerful statement. Track Listing for Domain (to be released in November 2011) is as follows: 1. Domain: 17:39 2. Don't Look to Me: 5:10 3. So Near Yet So Far: 5:28 4. Dreams in Artificial Sunlight: 3:32 5. Divisions of Time: 5:17 6. Seven Days of Rain: 6:12 7. The View to You: 8:28 8. Instruments of Fear: 4:14 9. The Future Remembered: 4:20 10. Ghosts of the Past: 4:25. Rising from the ashes of the eponymous solo band lead by musical mastermind Scott Mosher, from 1996 through 2004, Oceans of Night also features vocal powerhouse Scott Oliva, the drum mastery of the mysterious Alan Smithee and a special guest vocal apperance by Colleen Gray. Oceans of Night released their crushing debut CD, The Shadowheart Mirror, in 2009. Through the course of 6 CDs, multi-instrumentalist Scott Mosher has bridged the worlds of progressive metal, melodic hard rock and ambient sounds to create an experimental yet complimentary style of music that is at once as subtle as it is powerful, aggressive as it is dynamic and timeless as it is modern. Scott Oliva continues to perform in legendary NY Iron Maiden tribute band, Live After Death and The Nightmare Stage. He has also written, performed and recorded with Wind Wraith and Inner Strength. The Scott's had first worked together on Mr. Mosher's 4th CD release, Deep Horizon, in 2006. For more information, visit: www.oceansofnight.com.

 

 

Friday, October 14, 2011

FASTWAY LAUNCH WEBSITE: Fastway launched their new official website today. You can find all news/info about the band and the new album here: www.fastwayofficial.com. Fastway and SPV recently launched Leave The Light On for streaming, the first song from the new album Eat Dog Eat: soundcloud.com/steamhammer-spv/fastway-leave-the-light-on. Eat Dog Eat is the first new studio album since 1990. Together with new vocalist Toby Jepson (Ex-Little Angels) Fast Eddie Clarke has written some of his strongest songs with "Leave The Light On" being one of many examples of this varied album. The album will be released in Germany on November 11 and in Europe on November 14. AUSTRIA'S CORNERSTONE SCORE AIRPLAY: Austria's biggest radio station OE3 (around 2.8 million daily listeners!), has decided, to introduce the new Cornerstone album Somewhere in America at the Friday Night Show (presented by Eberhard Forcher). This will happen on Friday, 10/14, 10:00 p.m. CET. You may listen to OE3 either all over Austria or via Livestream worldwide. WebLink: www.oe3.orf.at / www.cornerstone.co.at / www.facebook.com/cornerstoneaustria. NEW WINTERLAND VIDEO TO CHECK OUT: Winterland just released a new music video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=njMQ0X-Cn3U. The band states: "We organized about 30 extras all by ourselves (friends, relatives and former band colleagues), had help by a team of German TV-Station SWR and the director Jurgen Walzer (www.jwkm.de) spent about 2 full months editing." Check it out! FIREFEST PRESS RELEASE OCTOBER 2011: Press Release: / The Firefest 2011 range of Ladies and Gents T shirts , and the totally cool 'got to have' item for 2011 the all new FF Hoodie are available NOW for pre order at www.thefirefest.com , just go to the SHOP. As with all Firefest products t shirts are limited and Hoodies are extremely limited with only 50 available in total. Ladies: The two ladies 'smoke' designs are available in Purple and Pink logo design, with a range of sizes from M/L to XXL making sure we have sizes for all the girls, from petite to generous. Ladies tees are black, v neck, short sleeve with Firefest scroll logo on front. Gents: For discerning guys we have a choice of two designs, the 'Matt and Gunnar' Twins design, and the 'Flame' design logos. Shirts are available from Medium to 4XL, with extremely limited quantities of the largest shirts. Men's tees are black, round neck, short sleeve, Design logo on front and band list on back. Hoodies: Having been asked year after year why we had no hoodies available we have finally decided to offer an extremely limited quantity of black, zipped hoodies with a stunning grey Sun logo approximately 6" in circumference on the left hand side of the hoodie. This logo contains the band list, Firefest branding and date. Hoodies are available in sizes from Medium to 4XL. Dispatch: We cannot guarantee that you will have your shirt in advance of the show as we can only rely on the postal delivery service in each territory to get the job done, but we will be endeavouring to dispatch pre orders by next weekend, it may stretch to Monday which should be fine for U.K. deliveries, European territories and other countries such as the U.S.A., Canada, Australia etc. will obviously take a little longer. However this is the only way to guarantee you will get a shirt or hoodie as we have sold out completely of all FF shirts usually by Saturday night of the show. When selecting your territory, for the U.K. click UK, for European territories click EU and for the rest of the world click ROTW. Payments can be made via PayPal to Firefest@hotmail.com or by cheque to Bruce Mee, 10 Dunnock Close, Offerton, Stockport, SK2 5XD , England. Strangeways DVD Update: Due to unforeseen delays in the manufacturing plant we have not yet received our shipment of Strangeways DVD's , however we have been given a new delivery date which is Tuesday next October 11, and it is hoped to start mailing out the DVD's on Wednesday Oct 12. We are truly sorry about the delay, but there was nothing that could be done. For all those that have pre ordered the DVD, you should hopefully receive your copies within a few days of dispatch. Additional Merchandise: We will have some additional merchandise at the show, items not available on pre order, but some pretty cool stuff that people have been asking us about for many years, so be sure to check in with the Merchandise desk inside Rock City. For those travelling from Euro currency territories, you WILL be able to purchase merchandise using EURO notes only (no coins) if you wish. This applies to the Firefest range of merchandise only, and is not applicable to merchandise belonging to bands playing the show. However we hope this will not only prove convenient for you but save you some money by not paying commission charges for currency exchange. MONSTERS OF ROCK CRUISE COMPLETED: Press Release / "With our Monsters Of Rock Cruise closing in (just under 5 months) we are ready to cap this party off! www.MonstersOfRockCruise.com. Lets recap the past few months.... May 2011 - MOR goes live on Facebook and announces cruise for 2012! June 2011- The initial line-up is announced with Tesla, Cinderella, Kix, Stryper, Y&T, Lynch Mob, Firehouse, Faster Pussycat, Eric Martin from Mr. Big, John Corabi, Black n Blue, Keel, Bang Tango, and Sunset Strip Rockers XYZ...Can't forget Big John from VH1's Rock Of Love (John will showcase his new show Rock n' Lock). The cruise goes on sale! July 2011 - Eddie Trunk from VH1s "That Metal Show" joins the cruise and will be hosting events and signing his book for cruise attendees. From London, England, U F O signs on and Eddie Trunk is even happier! Famed LA tribute band Atomic Punks and Motley Inc. see our cruise and chime in: "Hey Dude... Let's Party!" The Cruise has grown into a full ship Rock n' Roll bash!! August 2011 - MOR staff working on shipboard events decide to kick it off early and throw a bash the night before the cruise! Enter Route 66 in Fort Lauderdale, FL (a quick drive to the port)! Route 66 has a great history as Summers On The Beach, a famed spring break hangout that some of the bands played back in the day...MOR pre-cruise bash features performances from Kix, and the Atomic Punks. September 2011 - All quiet on the west front... And now the final performers: First up... This band has a tie to Guns N' Roses... Most people don't know it, but when these LA rockers were playing the Coconut Teaser, Axl Rose was in the audience, saw them perform, and went back to GnR's label and told them to sign them ASAP! Another label won out the battle.... and "One Night Stand" hit the airwaves via the Warner Brothers label. Please welcome Rhino Bucket to the cruise!! These AC/DC style rockers will bring their gritty rock to the MOR cruise with a couple of surprises! Joining Georg Dolivo onstage performing "One Night Stand", "Blood On The Cross" and "Ride With Yourself"… why that's Brian Forsythe from Kix on guitar, Simon Wright (former AC/DC and DIO) on drums, along with Reeves Downes on bass! MOR cruisers please meet Flametal! Ben Woods takes an interesting twist to songs by Ozzy, Rainbow and Iron Maiden…We will let the music do the talkin' on this one! Ben combines his wealth of talent of flamenco guitar with his love of heavy metal and the outcome is original...check it out www.Flametal.com. Flametal will be doing performances at the pre-cruise party as well as on board the MOR cruise...Enjoy! Next up, our travels take us north, and we had to cross into Canada for this one! These rockers were early Heavy Metal favorites of MTV. Currently these Canadian stars are doing dates with Anvil in Europe and knocking it out of the park! Please welcome, all the way from Toronto, Canada…Helix!! Brian Vollmer (Vox) and his band have toured the world with the likes of Kiss, Alice Cooper, Motley Crue, Whitesnake and Motorhead over the past 30 years and have had hits like "Heavy Metal Love" and "Rock You". They even made an appearance on cult favorite Trailer Park Boys, "The Big Dirty" motion picture in 2009. You know we couldn't leave it there, so in true Classic and Current fashion.... Welcome the reunited Odin!! These guys ruled the Sunset Strip...Randy O and the boys set the bar on how to Rock in LA in the mid 80s. Odin released "Don't Take No For An Answer" and, of course, were a main feature in the film, "The Decline of the Western Civilization…The Metal Years". Recently they rocked the Sunset Strip again... killing it at the Whiskey! Fast-forward to today...Welcome DC4 to the stage! The Brothers Duncan (from Odin) formed a new band with former Dio guitarist Rowan Robertson!! DC4's aggressive style will bring a modern edge to our High Seas bash! If you get a chance check them out @ www.facebook.com/DC4HardRock. PS...We will be doing a screening of "The Decline Of Western Civilization... The Metal Years" during the MOR Cruise! And finally…These guys were actually one of the first bands we wanted, but were in the middle of one of this summer's hottest selling tours. You can always Rock in America with these Damn Yankees... Night Ranger!! Not only will Jack Blades, Kelly Keagy, Brad Gillis, and Joel Hoekstra bring their monster songs like "Don't Tell Me You Love Me", "When you Close Your Eyes", " You Can Still Rock In America", and the power ballad "Sister Christian"... They will also be doing a special acoustic performance, and maybe a surprise song or two as well! All right! There is the Official 2012 Monsters of Rock Cruise Artist Line-up...Hope you like what we have created…Enjoy the Experience! Get some rest folks; you aren't going to sleep on this cruise! No rest for the wicked!! www.MonstersOfRockCruise.com. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following three new features to download: - Guns N Roses - Rock in Rio 2011 (Full show) - Bryan Adams - Live At the Tokyo Dome 1989 (Killer show) - Candy - Demos 1986-87 MRX Membership Details. REVIEWS UPDATED: It's "battle of the projects/producers/singers" with the 3 Frontiers Records releases reviewed this week. October sees the three big guns of the Frontiers production house right now, all competing against each other – Mat Sinner with Kimball/Jamison, Dennis Ward with Fergie Frederiksen and Daniel Flores with Issa. All feature songs by familiar writers and all 3 are now reviewed - so who wins?!! Read Reviews. CHRIS ANTBLAD CD - LAST CALL!: Anyone that still would like a copy of the debut Chris Antblad CD Century had better order their copy today. I have wholesale orders that will wipe out remaining stock of this limited edition pressing, so please order now! www.melodicrockrecords.com/store.

 

 

Thursday, October 13, 2011

THEOCRACY: NEW ALBUM "AS THE WORLD BLEEDS" ANNOUNCED: The Athens, Georgia-based melodic metal band Theocracy will release their new album As The World Bleeds on November 25th in Europe through Ulterium Records and on November 21st in North America through Nightmare Records. The album will also be released as a double gatefold vinyl edition, strictly limited to 500 copies worldwide. "As The World Bleeds" track listing; 01. I AM 02. The Master Storyteller 03. Nailed 04. Hide in the Fairytale 05. The Gift of Music 06. 30 Pieces of Silver 07. Drown 08. Altar to the Unknown God 09. Light of the World 10. As the World Bleeds. Check out an album teaser at YouTube: youtu.be/lRqVm0eLt68. "As the World Bleeds" can be pre-ordered through the Ulterium Records Store: www.ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com. Theocracy is heading to Europe for an eight date headliner tour starting October 21st that will take them through Holland, Germany, Switzerland, Slovakia and Czech Republic. For more information on Theocracy; Official website: www.theocracymusic.com / Official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/theocracyband.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Hamburg-based Power Metal Veterans Iron Savior will release their new album The Landing on November 18. The song Heavy Metal Never Dies is available as a first teaser. Tracklist: 01. Descending 02. The Savior 03. Starlight 04. March Of Doom 05. Heavy Metal Never Dies 06. Moment In Time 07. Hall Of The Heroes 08. R. U. Ready 09. Faster Than All 10. Before The Pain 11.No Guts No Glory. Southern California instrumental rock guitar hero Ronny North has been really busy lately on top of scoring the movie soundtrack for the upcoming film "The Chauffeur" he has been busy playing a few cool charity events such as the 2011 Standdown event for the Vets on Sept 15th. It was his fourth consecutive year playing the event. On October 15th he will be headlining the USO's Wheels and Warriors Car show that benefits the troops. He will also be performing on the Rock Revolution Tour when it hits Southern California on October 25th and 27th. He will also be playing at the Special Olympics Winter Games on November 12th. Ronny is a big supporter of the Special Olympics and has played their Summer Games event for the last 11 consecutive years....To get more info on everything Ronny North go to www.ronnynorth.com. Scorpions is about to release a 3D blu-ray called Live in 3D, as well as a live album Live 2011. Both will be released on Friday with exclusive distribution by Media Market. Both will document the show given in Saarbrucken in April 2011.   xx RICHARD LEE'S EIGHTY TWO AND A HALF CHANCES: August 2010 saw the release of independent UK based singer-songwriter Richard Lee's stunning second album Eighty Two and a Half Chances; An album of upbeat songs with infectious melodies and stirring choruses. With subjects ranging from life, love, divine intervention and the still small voice in the back of your head it goes places that we've all been, casting an uplifting light even on the downbeat topics. From full band epic tracks through to the quietest heartfelt acoustic tracks this is an album that is destined to make an impact wherever heard. Eighty Two and a Half Chances is a well realised album with this collection of songs not missing any of Richard's trademark deep and meaningfuls, but with an upbeat nature maintained throughout, making this album a pleasure to listen to and leaving the listener feeling optimistic at the end of it. Running at 55 minutes and featuring 13 songs this is Richard's most accomplished work to date with the songs fitting together perfectly - each drawing you in and leaving you with a melody stuck in your head and showcasing his powerful voice and amazing range. With the support of some stunning musicians in the studio this album practically leaps out of the speakers with songs that are pure out and out Rock, with hints of Americana, Nashville style production and something all of it's own thrown in. Richard's song 'Satellite' was one of the free bonus mp3's downloads available with advance orders of the latest Melodic Rock compilation MRCD7 Forces of Dark and Light, and his song 'Let It Go' was featured on the Melodic Rock Compilation MRCD5 Writing on the Wall. For more info please visit: www.myspace.com/richardleemusic and/or www.richardleemusic.com. SEBASTIAN BACH INTERVIEW ON RICH DAVENPORT'S ROCK SHOW: Former Skid Row (and now Billboard-charting solo artist) Sebastian Bach, will be featured in an exclusive interview on Rich Davenport's Rock Show on Thursday 13th October 2011, between 7-8pm UK time at www.salfordcityradio.org/shows.php?id=577 (and then on the website's "Listen Again" feature for the next three weeks). The interview will also feature Sebastian's choice of tracks from his new album "Kicking & Screaming", along with his choice of Thin Lizzy track for the show's weekly Phil Lynott tribute spot. The show also features the best in classic metal and rock, Southern Rock, AOR, and lost gems from the NWOBHM era. QUEENSRYCHE TO PERFORM THEIR EPIC CONCEPT ALBUM, OPERATION: MINDCRIME ON SHIPROCKED CRUISE: Rock fans aboard this year's ShipRocked cruise (www.getshiprocked.com) will be in for a special treat as Queensryche has just announced a performance of their epic concept album, Operation: Mindcrime, from beginning to end. The performance of "Mindcrime" -- which will feature In This Moment's Maria Brink on vocals as "Sister Mary" -- will be the band's first of the album since the Rocklahoma festival in the summer of 2008. "We've always enjoyed performing for our fans in intimate settings and the forthcoming ShipRocked cruise will certainly be one of those occasions," states Queensryche lead singer Geoff Tate, who returns with the band for their second ShipRocked cruise. "We're calling this one, 'Mutiny on the Mindcrime.'" The special performance of Operation: Mindcrime will be in addition to a greatest hits performance that will take place on another night of the cruise, which sets sail towards the Mayan Riviera on Monday, November 14th. The Mindcrime set will cover all fifteen songs from the album including such fan favorites as "Revolution Calling," "Operation: Mindcrime," "I Don't Believe In Love" and the closing track, "Eyes Of A Stranger." In 2006, Queensryche performed both their Mindcrime releases (1988's Operation: MIndcrime and 2006's Operation: Mindcrime II) back-to-back on an extensive tour. In 2007, that theatrical performance was captured on the gold-selling Mindcrime at the Moore double DVD set that debuted at #1 on the Billboard Music DVD Chart. Maria Brink is ecstatic about joining Queensryche for the ten-minute song, "Suite Sister Mary." "I am so excited and grateful for this amazing opportunity to sing with Queensryche on the upcoming ShipRocked cruise! All of us in the band are huge Queensryche fans, and Geoff Tate is one of the best lead singers in the business. Getting to sing 'Suite Sister Mary' off the original Mindcrime album is a huge honor. This is going to be a cruise to remember!" In This Moment will be just one of many bands to perform... Buckcherry, Hinder, Hellyeah, Sevendust, Candlebox, Filter and Living Colour among others will also be rocking the ship on the five-night rock cruise, which is celebrating its third consecutive year. Since the June release of their recent effort, Dedicated to Chaos (via Roadrunner Records/Loud & Proud), Queensryche -- consisting of Geoff Tate, Michael Wilton, Eddie Jackson, Scott Rockenfield and Parker Lundgren -- have been on tour celebrating their 30th Anniversary as a band (see www.queensryche.com for all details and forthcoming dates). The setting for this year's ShipRocked will once again be the MSC Poesia, which is one of the cruise industry's most acclaimed new super cruise ships. It all begins in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, with stops and the premier Mexican ports of Costa Maya and Cozumel. Exuding her Italian roots, the Poesia features a luxurious Aqua Spa, two pools, four Jacuzzis, a state-of-the-art cardio gym, salon, sushi bar, wine tasting bar, a beautiful, three-level Las Vegas-style theatre and additional stages for ShipRocked bands and passengers to enjoy all day and night. Prices start at only $799 per person, based on double occupancy, and include exclusive access to all ShipRocked concerts and general events, deluxe staterooms, meals, ship activities, ship entertainment and much, much more! Space is limited, but cabins are still available at www.getshiprocked.com or by calling 888-438-9509.

 

 

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

VAN HALEN CANCEL PLANNED EUROPEAN TOUR DATES: Van Halen have cancelled their planned 2012 Summer Tour of Europe before the dates were even announced. But because planning was so far along for the tour - the dates and venues were already locked in. But there has been no reason given to promoters for the cancellation. Simply that it was not going to go ahead. The cancelled dates were: May 28 Paris Zenith May 30 Zuerich Hallenstadion June 1 Barcelona Pala Jordi June 3 Milano Arena Fiera June 5 Dortmund Westfalenhalle June 7 Sweden Rock Solvesborg June 10 Download Festival Donnington June 13 Stuttgart Schleyerhalle June 15 Hellfest Clisson France June 17 Fields Of Rock Festival Holland June 19 Berlin O2 Arena June 21 Prag June 23 Grasspop Metal Meeting Belgium That's it for now... but stay tuned as always... NIGHTWISH TO RELEASE IMAGINAERUM ON JANUARY 10, 2012: New York, NY: Fans of dramatic, symphonic, Euro metal have something to look forward to when the cold, dark, dreary winter sets in. Finnish superstars Nightwish will release their new album Imaginaerum on January 10, 2012 via Roadrunner Records and it will serve as a welcome beckon of warmth and light in an otherwise dark season! The album is the band's first since 2007's Dark Passion Play, which was then-new singer Anette Olzon's debut. The band examined its catalog when sitting down to write what would become Imaginaerum. The songs for the album were written between 2008 and 2010, after the Dark Passion Play tour cycle ended. At that point, Nightwish knew they wanted to do something different, new and unique, which is exceptional for a band whose career has been defined by words like different, new and unique! The band consciously wanted to do something so big, crossover, detailed, innovative and, well, "nuts," that it would leave the band, and hopefully the people experiencing it, completely awestruck. It would be a situation where fans and/or critics would either love it or hate it, but they'd be left awestruck nonetheless. That's when the band realized another dimension, namely video, was necessary for the project. Instead of a concept album, the band set the album to a film. "The original idea I had was to film 13 short stories related to the songs with a connected storyline, shot by Stobe Harju," keyboardist/songwriter Tuomas Holopainen said. It was Harju's idea to turn the 13 stories and visions into more of a connected cinematic piece –essentially, a film. It would have a clear plot, script, dialogue and real actors in an ambitious effort to create something wholly unique. The film was shot in September of this year. The movie is based on the album and its 13 tracks, honoring the original ideas, but having evolved radically from the initial plan. Holopainen said, "Still, it was important from the very beginning that the album would work as its own individual piece of art, as well. It is a thematic album about life itself, about imagination, love, goodness and beauty, with a touch of darkness and melancholy, which are strongly included in all of those things mentioned." As if we could expect anything less from Nightwish! The band will have but a small part in the film. A 2012 premiere date is being eyed. Imaginaerum: an audio-visual testament of what Nightwish have always been about. The track listing for Imaginaerum is as follows; note that track 12 is broken down into four parts. 01. Taikatalvi 02. Storytime 03. Ghost River 04. Slow, Love, Slow 05. I Want My Tears Back 06. Scaretale 07. Arabesque 08. Turn Loose the Mermaids 09. Rest Calm 10. The Crow, the Owl and the Dove 11. Last Ride of the Day 12. Song Of Myself - Song 1: From A Dusty Bookshelf Song 2: All That Great Heart Lying Still Song 3: Piano Black Song 4: Love 13. Imaginaerum. In other Nightwish news, the band will play a one-off show at the Gibson Amphitheater in Los Angeles on Jan. 21 and the band will then set sail on the 70,000 Tons of Metal cruise, which heads for the high seas on Jan. 23 in Miami, Fla.   xx HOUSE OF SHAKIRA ANNOUNCE SIXTH ALBUM TITLE: With the announcement in 2010 of lead vocalist Andreas Novak joining Swedish melodic rock stalwarts House of Shakira, the band have wasted little time putting together material for what marks their sixth album, the simply titled HoS. Now nearing the final stages of production, HoS represents the end of one cycle and the start of a new dawn in the bands history, and also marks the debut for other new members Basse Blyberg on bass/backing vocals and Martin Larsson on drums. House of Shakira - HoS is set for an anticipated release date of January 27, 2012 on Lion Music with full album details to follow soon. WebLinks: www.houseofshakira.com / www.myspace.com/houseofshakira / www.youtube.com/user/hosmh.   CAVO SET TO RELEASE THICK AS THIEVES THIS WINTER: New York, NY – St. Louis rockers Cavo have completed recording their upcoming album Thick as Thieves. The album, their first with top independent rock label Eleven Seven Music, is set for release in early 2012. Produced by Kato Khandwala (Blondie, Drowning Pool) David Bendeth (Paramore, Papa Roach, Breaking Benjamin) and Dan Korneff (All That Remains, My Chemical Romance), Thick as Thieves was recorded at House of Loud Studios in New Jersey. The title track and first single impacted at rock radio last week. With immediate adds in Chicago, Phoenix, Kansas City, St. Louis and thirteen other markets, the powerful sophomore debut is off to a promising start. Cavo is currently planning a short radio promo tour in select markets, to be announced shortly. The music video for "Thick as Thieves" premiered on Yahoo! last week and was directed by Frankie Nasso, who has directed videos for Chevelle, the RZA, HellYeah! and All That Remains. The video features Cavo performing on a hi-rise rooftop in St. Louis. To watch the video: www.youtube.com/cavomusic. In anticipation of the Thick As Thieves release, Cavo is calling on its fans to help finalize their cover art, which will be a collage of candid band shots taken by fans. To participate, fans should upload their photos of the band here (www.cavomusic.com/photo.html). Artwork is set to be revealed in early December. "Our fans have always been so important to us, and we wanted to do something to really include them in the process of making this new album," comments singer Casey Walker. "We want to use their photos from our shows on the cover, which will truly allow them to be part of the fabric of Cavo. If it weren't for the fans, we wouldn't be here." Cavo experienced an incredible measure of success with its debut, 2009's Bright Nights Dark Days, which yielded the No. 1 hit "Champagne." The band's rise to the top of the charts and subsequent touring nearly tore them apart, leaving their relationships with each other and as a unit in shreds. After a brief break and careful examination of their friendships and motives, Cavo decided to soldier on together. Thick as Thieves is the band's testament to their bond that was once broken and has now been rebuilt and even strengthened. The title track and first single showcases front man Casey Walker's soaring vocals with a message furthering the notion that things are tighter than ever in the Cavo ranks. The track listing is as follows: Thick as Thieves, Give it Away, Hold Your Ground, California, Circles, Celebrity, Never Gonna Hurt, War Within, Last Day, Run, Southern Smile. Formed in St. Louis in 2002, Cavo is Chris Hobbs (guitar), Chad LaRoy (drums), Brian Smith (bass) and Casey Walker (vocals). The band's last album, Bright Nights Dark Days, was released on Reprise Records in 2009 and sold over 120,00 albums and over 450,000 singles. The album spawned two top 10 hits, "Champagne" (which reached #1) and "Crash (peaked at #6). Cavo has toured with Daughtry, Nickelback, Lifehouse, Shinedown among others. LANCE KING TO RELEASE A MOMENT IN CHIROS NOVEMBER 11 ON NIGHTMARE RECORDS: Lance King is world renowned in the underground as a melodic metal vocalist, singing on over 25 worldwide releases over the last 21 years. This fact is impressive in itself, but what is truly special about Lance is his ability to morph his voice to fit any mood and intensity of a song, he's proved this over the years by adding a very "special something" to every album he has been a part of. Said to have the golden touch, Lance's voice just seems to connect the dots making head banging metal also into a good song. On the last day of June, 2011 Lance decided to invite some of his musical friends to co-write songs with him as he ventured into his first solo album. An act of faith only knowing their work, never working with them before in creating music. In just two months, those involved had created an epic masterpiece, quite a feat indeed based on the quality of this release. In under three months, A Moment In Chiros was mixed and mastered and off to the presses, perhaps the fasted created music in history? This album was meant to be out by 11/11/11 and is destined to stand the test of time. The album's concept is based on the 11:11 time prompt phenomena happening to over 75 million people around the world, Lance is one of these people, and has dived in deep to find more about what it's all about. This album is one man's journey as a seeker of truth looking for answers to the world's greatest mysteries. Lance has chosen "Human Trafficking" (sex slavery), one of the fastest growing criminal activities worldwide as the charitable cause he would like to champion, profits from this album will go to efforts to abolish this slave trade worldwide through an organization called "Not For Sale"! www.notforsalecampaign.org/about/slavery/ Boasting great creativity and performances by these fine musicians: Jacob Hansen (Beyond Twilight, Invocator & Anubis Gate), Kim Olesen (Anubis Gate), Michael Harris (Darkology, Thought Chamber), Tore St Moren (Jorn), Fred Colombo (Spheric Universe Experience), Markus Sigfridsson (Darkwater / Harmony), Kevin Codfert (Adagio), Michael Hansen & Shane Dhiman (Phonomik), Malek Ben Arbia (Myrath) & Morten Gade Sørensen (Pyramaze, Wuthering Heights), Elyes Bouchoucha, Malek Ben Arbia, Anis Jouini (Myrath) & Mistheria (Bruce Dickinson and MANY others). Produced by: Kim Olesen (Anubis Gate) & Jacob Hansen, (Volbeat, Heathen, TYR, Amaranthe, Communic, Mercenary, Onslaught, Rob Rock, Blotted Science, Raunchy, Pretty Maids, Cryoshell) Tracklist: 111. A Sense of Urgency 222. Awakening 333. Manifest Destiny 444. A Given Choice 555. A Moment in Chiros 666. Dance of Power 777. Kibou 888. Infinity Divine 999. Joy Everlasting 10:10 Sacred Systems 11:11 Transformation. WebLinks: tinyurl.com/LanceKingVox (Facebook) / www.twitter.com/lancekingvox / www.NightmareRecords.com.   STEEL PANTHER'S NEW SINGLE AVAILABLE ON iTUNES: The legends of the Sunset Strip, Steel Panther, are getting ready to release their sophomore album Balls Out via Universal Republic Records. The album will be released on November 1st and will continue the raucous tradition of the band's 2009 debut, Feel The Steel. The album's first single 17 Girls In A Row is available beginning today on iTunes. itunes.apple.umrg.com/us/album/17-girls-in-a-row-single/id469258194?ls=1 The song showcases the band's ability to write memorable hooks while mixing them with their signature style lyrics like "I banged 17 girls in a grocery store and never lost my erection." With its driving opening drum beat and infectious guitar riff, "17 Girls In A Row" will be sure to heat up rock airwaves and give it a much needed kick in the balls – no pun intended. WebLinks: www.steelpantherrocks.com / www.facebook.com/steelpantherkicksass / www.twitter.com/steel_panther.   xxxx FIREFEST INTERNET TICKET SALES TO CLOSE SHORTLY: Firefest Press Release / "For those intending to purchase tickets directly from Firefest using PayPal, please note the last days for internet sales are as follows: Worldwide (USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, Korea etc.) Last orders accepted on Wednesday October 12. European Territories: Last orders accepted on Thursday October 13. UK: Last orders accepted on Monday October 17. Sales in external agencies such as ST Records and Destiny Records will also close on Friday October 14. Please note: Tickets for Firefest Friday are almost sold out; we have just fewer than 20 tickets remaining. Persons wishing to purchase tickets after the dates above can do so by going directly to the Rock City box office at the venue or by using their on line ticketing agency www.alt-tickets.co.uk. Tickets will also be available on all three days of the show at the Rock City box office. Please remember if you are intending to purchase tickets, the cheapest and fastest way for you to do this is by purchasing DIRECTLY from Firefest before internet sales close, so please be aware of the closing dates as mentioned above. Look forward to seeing you all in Nottingham ~ The Crew." GOTTHARD STILL NOT READY FOR VOCALIST ANNOUNCEMENT: Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine talked to Gotthard's Mark Lynn about the band's new live album, the passing of Steve Lee and of course the search for the new singer. Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr: How do you feel, is it difficult for you when you have to listen to Steve again while making this album? Marc Lynn: No, the record was already done one and a half year ago… we planned it with Steve together, that we were going to work on a second de-frosted album, and a second acoustic album, to have more space to work on an electric album later on. The idea was to bring out the light album on spring this year, so when Steve went on holidays with the bike this album was already done. So, for us it wasn't that we listened a lot to that album again, we just listened to a couple of samples and a few cuts that we needed to make because there wasn't enough space on the record, it was one CD, so it wasn't that hard, but I didn't listen to the whole album by myself. Rockpages.gr: Many people will ask whether Gotthard have found a new singer… Marc Lynn: Yeah, we are working on it! We had around 400 people that would want that job… Applications came from all around the world… Uruguay, Australia, England, Switzerland, from everywhere… unfortunately not from Greece! So, we listened to all the demos and everything, and there were 30 people that we liked, so we sent them a demo to sing on it, to see how their voice fits the song we have done until now. And we came up with 10 people, who we invited them for two days. One day we were in the rehearsal room, and one in the studio and all around… We learned each other, talking, what they have done, and now we sent them home and we are going to listen to the tapes again and if we have a certain feeling of somebody we'd invite him for two weeks to work with us, to write new songs that will be cut for his voice, to see how creative he is. We'll see him over a long term, and also see what kind of guy he is, what personality he is and right now we are working on the last one to conclude this whole list of possible singers! We have our favorite one, the one we felt was right for the band, but we haven't talked about it, but it's certain that if not by next month, then by the end of the year we will have a new singer! Read The Whole Interview On: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=6309&type=1&lang=EN.

 

 

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

ROYAL HUNT – THE NEOCLASSIC METAL KINGS ARE BACK ON THEIR THRONE!: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Royal Hunt 11th studio album entitled Show me How to Live on November 29 in North America and December 2 in Europe. Royal Hunt have been recently rejoined by DC Cooper, the American singer that marked the two most successful releases of the band in the 90's : Moving Target and the concept album Paradox. "We started chatting on Skype from time to time and that's how the idea of doing on a mini tour came about", tells Royal Hunt founder, songwriter and keyboards player Andre Andersen. "After playing some shows we realized that the chemistry was still there and we decided to continue… recording a new album - first...". And you can certainly hear the results on "Show Me How to Live". The new material is described as "highly melodic with rich, lush arrangements and stellar production", this will certainly please the fans of neoclassical yet progressive music. Andersen continues "The new songs are continuing right from where we left it in the first place, so far it sounds great. It will have some qualities of our previous albums "Moving Target" and "Paradox", but you can certainly expect some cool updates and new twists!" Founded in Denmark in 1989 by Andre Andersen, Royal Hunt has gone through numerous personnel changes since the inception. Though certainly the two albums that they have released with American singer DC Cooper; are the ones that mostly stood the test of time: "Moving Target" in 1995 and the subsequent concept album "Paradox" in 1997. While Andre Andersen - a musical genius who can virtually play any instrument, compose, write lyrics and produce all at the same time – is undoubtedly the powerhouse force that drives the entire ensemble forward like a bulldozer, it's also sure that DC is one of the top singers in the entire hard rock world. The extension and warmth of his vocals are the key elements that can bring back Royal Hunt to the throne of nowadays Hard Rock scene. Once again recorded and produced at NorthPoint Studios in Denmark, "Show Me How To Live" brings back Royal Hunt at force 10 with an highly melodic sound and rich, lush arrangements and stellar production. With the amazing new line-up, the fans as well as the critics, are about to get a fresh taste of the powerful and rejuvenated Royal Hunt! "Show Me How To Live" final track listing includes: Introduction; One More Day; Another Man Down; An Empty Shell; Hard Rain's Coming; Half Past Loneliness; Show Me How To Live; Angel's Gone. As a companion to the new album release, Frontiers Records will also release on the same day a double DVD entitled "Future Coming From the Past". This double package serves as a celebration of the return of singer DC Cooper to the line-up, and makes finally widely available two very rare items which were only released in Japan back in the day. The first DVD is entitled "1996" and was recorded live in Japan just after the release of the band's "Moving Target" album. "1996" is an excellent summary of Royal Hunt's career up to that point. The band offers a great mix of songs from their first three studio albums. The band was in top form for this show, with DC leading the way. The second DVD "Paradox - Closing the Chapter" was recorded in 1998 and marked the end of the original DC Cooper era for Royal Hunt. It is essentially a complete live performance of the band's amazing studio album "Paradox", their most successful album to date. It is a very solid performance and DC delivers the goods, while the band's playing is superb. To complete the package is a 50 minute documentary which shares stories of life in a Rock band. "Future Coming From the Past" table of contents include: DVD1 - 1996 - Concert: Flight; 1348; Wasted Time; Stay Down; On the Run; Stranded; Keyboard Solo; Martial Arts; Far Away; Last Goodbye; Land of Broken Hearts; Makin' a Mess; Clown in the Mirror; Guitar Solo; Step by Step; Drums & Bass Solo; Running Wild; Epilogue; Age Gone Wild; Ten to Life; Legion of the Damned; Kingdom Dark; Time. Total length 150 mins. DVD2 - Closing the Chapter (Paradox): - Concert: The Awakening; River of Pain; Tearing Down the World; Message to God; Long Way Home; Time Will Tell; Silent Scream; It's Over. - Documentary. Total length 100 mins. Format: NTSC Region Free – Screen 4:3 - Stereo. While Andre Andersen says "We're taking it one step at the time – let's finish the new album first, release it and see how the reaction of our fans is", you can anyway certainly expect to see Royal Hunt playing in a town near you in the first months of 2012. Royal Hunt current lineup includes: André Andersen - keyboards; D.C. Cooper - vocals; Allan Sørensen - drums; Andreas Passmark - bass; Jonas Larsen - guitars.   xxxx AXEL RUDI PELL BALLADS CHARTING: The new album The Ballads IV from Axel Rudi Pell reached the following chart positions: Germany: # 29 Switzerland: # 53 Norway: # 65 It's been seven years since the last Axel Rudi Pell compilation "The Ballads III" saw the light of day. Lots of things happened, most importantly the tragic death of the iconic Ronnie James Dio (Rainbow/Black Sabbath) in the May of 2010. Axel not only lost one of his inspirations, he also lost a friend, touring with Dio in the summer of 2009 for the last time in Germany. That lead to a tribute which stands out among the many already been done all over the world: Dio's classic tune, the title track of his first solo release, "Holy Diver", finds a new magic in Pell's performance, an orchestral and very emotional version where Gioeli sings his ass off. One of his finest moments creates Axel with his newest song "Where The Wild Waters Flow", being one of the best ballads he's ever written to date. But the climax of "The Ballads IV" is without a doubt the fascinating and tear-dropping version of Leonard Cohen's classic "Hallelujah". Gioeli is joined by a children's choir here! There are 9 more songs, of course, pretty much known from his previous albums (e.g. Kiss' "Love Gun" and Phil Collins' "In The Air Tonight") which wraps up another classic, dynamic and high-quality Axel Rudi Pell album. "The Ballads IV" is available as a standard version, double gatefold LP in coloured vinyl and download through Steamhammer / SPV. Here`s the video for the current single "Hallelujah": www.youtube.com/user/spv#p/u/0/wKMP81DVLLk. CHICKENFOOT HIT UK FOR SELECT DATES: Following the release of their long awaited second album 'III', the hottest rock & roll band in the world, Chickenfoot, have announced a 5-date UK & European tour for January 2012; their first European concerts since July 2009. Including 2 UK concerts in Manchester and London, tickets will go on sale at 9am on Friday October 14th 2011; further info is detailed below, and at www.chickenfoot.us. Chickenfoot will perform songs from their gold-selling, eponymous debut album, alongside tracks from the critically acclaimed 'III', for the very first time outside of the United States. The European tour kicks off at the Manchester Academy on Thursday January 12th, followed by London's o2 Academy Brixton (Saturday January 14th), Paris Olympia (Monday January 16th), Tilburg O13 (Tuesday January 17th) and Dusseldorf Mitsubishi Electric Hall (Thursday January 19th). Tickets for the 2 UK concerts will be available from www.livenation.co.uk/artist/chickenfoot-tickets. Featuring guitar hero Joe Satriani and Van Halen duo, bassist Michael Anthony & frontman Sammy Hagar, Chickenfoot drummer Chad Smith has temporarily handed his sticks over to the legendary Kenny Aronoff, who will join the band for these concerts. Says Joe Satriani, "Kenny brings that same combination of super chops and wild energy to the band that we're used to; and, offstage, he's just as crazy as Chad". Chickenfoot fans in the UK will be treated to a special Planet Rock pre-sale, where tickets can be purchased 24 hours ahead of the October 14th general on-sale date. By visiting www.planetrock.com, tickets will be available from 9am on Thursday October 13th. Read the full Chickenfoot UK & European tour press release - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/chickenfoot/tour.htm. RIOT FORCED TO CANCEL HAMMERFALL TOUR: Due to complications from Tony's emergency oral surgery, RIOT is disappointed to announce that they will not be able to appear with Hammerfall as previously scheduled. A routine dental check-up discovered a deeply infected root canal, and the infection had spread to the jaw and surrounding teeth. The only option was immediate surgery to remove the tooth, as well as a portion of the infected bone tissue, and to perform a large graft with healthy bone from the surrounding area. Says Tony: "During the initial examination, my doctor gave me a puzzled look and then asked the question that put fear in my heart: 'Are you in a lot of pain?' I was then informed that I would be if this procedure was not performed ASAP. After the surgery, I was made aware of the extent of the bone graft, and the risk of dislodging fragments of implanted bone should I resume normal activity too soon. I was put on a liquid diet and limited to bed rest for several days, then informed that because of the location of the surgery, singing was out of the question for four weeks. As I write this I still have stitches in my mouth and have to limit my physical activity. The recovery period essentially wiped out any hope of sufficient practice time for a Riot set list, and full recovery takes four months before the tooth can be replaced. We discussed all the options we could think of, the last of which was to perform the final 10 dates of the engagement with minimal practice on my part. In then end, though, everyone agreed that going out with my voice at any less than 100% would have compromised a show for which some fans have been waiting many years. With heavy hearts we made the only viable decision; to withdraw from the tour." The entire Riot organization would like to apologize to our record label, SPV, and thank them for supporting our decision. We have been assured that future European dates will be announced as soon as the appropriate schedule can be safely booked. We would also like to apologize to Hammerfall, who have been extremely generous and supportive throughout this process. We look forward to meeting you all in the near future. Finally we would like to apologize to our fans and friends who have sustained us throughout the reunion. We are as disappointed as you are, but you can be assured that RIOT will visit Europe as soon as possible. We're already confirming dates for early 2012 in the US, and we plan to support the release of 'Immortal Soul' as strongly as you have supported us for nearly a quarter of a century. A special note to our Asian fans: these events will not have any effect on our plans to perform in Japan in 2012. Tony will be fully recovered long before then, and we look forward to bringing 'Immortal Soul' to you soon. In the meantime, we hope that you enjoy the album as much as we have enjoyed creating it. Let us know what your favorites are so that we can bring them to you onstage next time we meet. A last note from Tony: "I've been dying to sing this stuff since we finished the album, and being sidelined like this is a major blow. I'm doing everything I can to recover so that I can rebuild the voice you'll hear when the album is released. I know that you want nothing less. Thanks from the bottom of my heart for your support and good wishes." All the best, and Shine On! ~ Mark, Mike, Bobby, Tony & Don. After the cancellation of RIOT - the legendary Vicious Rumors are now confirmed for the whole 7 week tour as special guest on Hammerfall's "European Outbreak - Tour 2011". After the release of the highly acclaimed CD Razorback Killers on Steamhammer/SPV this year Vicious Rumors has performed over 60 shows Including Summer Breeze Festival, Rock Hard Festival , Metalfest and many others. Hot from months of touring Vicious Rumors will now join Hammerfall for 32 dates all over Europe from Oct 26 to Dec 10-2011. LIVE MUSIC, CELEBRITIES, FOOD TO HIGHLIGHT ZO2'S ROCK ASYLUM BENEFIT AT HIRO BALLROOM: (New York, NY) -- Rock singer, Broadway star, and American Idol finalist Constantine Maroulis will be among the celebrities walking the purple carpet at ZO2's Rock Asylum benefit concert on Thursday, October 13 at the Hiro Ballroom. Other expected celebrities include former Journey frontman Steve Augeri, retired NFL defensive tackle Warren Sapp, musician Zach89 of Team Blackout and comedian Big Jay Oakerson. Rock Asylum will feature performances by ZO2 and some of the hottest bands around: Daredevil Squadron, Stoned Fire, All Pointz West, Our Black Friday and Queen V. Celebrity Top Chef contestant Danny Gagnon will provide hors d'oeuvres in the VIP Lounge. The benefit will raise funds for the Rock Asylum non-profit organization (501 aa. D-(c) (3) pending), which provides free rock concerts to schools around the country with the goal of inspiring young people to succeed in their education and become creative well-rounded adults. The concerts are performed by the Z Brothers, a highly acclaimed kid's band and alter-ego of ZO2. Rock Asylum's Purple Carpet Event will take place 7:30 p.m. at the Hiro Ballroom, 88 9th Ave., New York City.

 

 

Monday, October 10, 2011

MORE TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2012: News from some various Frontiers Records recording artists: Jeff Scott Soto - "Hello all, Jeff Scott Soto here reporting in as I am contently at the halfway stages of completing my new solo album, Damage Control! I am 2 vocals away from wrapping up 14 new masterpieces for you…its been over 3 years since I completed Beautiful Mess which was a departure from what fans expected. Well I can tell you this new album has what you want and more! I combined the best of my 1st 2 solo albums with Frontiers Records and also tapped into the spirits of Talisman, Soul SirkUS and then some on DC. I have recruited my solo band mates new and old to co-write with me as well as Joel Hoekstra of Night Ranger and Jamie Borger of Talisman/Treat to write and play with me on this. The tracks are amazing and I am sure will please all JSS fans alike. Look for Damage Control to drop in March 2012 with Frontiers Records followed by a full European/South America/possible US tour ...and oh, by the way, shameless plug, we'll be starting a new W.E.T. album in a few months….busy times but nothing less than you'd expect from me. ~ Cheers, JSS! House Of Lords new album "Big Money" entered at #90 in the Top Hard Rock charts on Billboard in the USA. Michael Thompson has completed the anticipated new album from Michael Thompson Band! The line-up of MTB includes now the fabulous new singer Larry King, plus Khari Parker on Drums and Alan Berliant on Bass. The album will see the light of day during the winter 2012. Whoever digs the debut album "How Long" Frontiers Records reissued in 2007 will be ecstatic when listening this new release. The title will be "Future Past". More info to be released soon. Singer Joe Lynn Turner is putting the finishing touches to the recording of his vocals for the new Sunstorm album that will be entitled "Emotional Fire". While the first two albums basic inspiration came from the AOR catalogue of songs that Turner penned for himself or other artists of the genre, for this third album it was decided to look at Turner's numerous vocal sessions he did in the 80's as background vocalist for other artists. This brought to the resurrection of some AOR gems which will be included on the new album. Dennis Ward is once again producing the record and the tracklisting is rounded out by some amazing songs written by Soren Kronkvist (Crash the System, Issa), Tom and James Martin (Vega, Sunstorm, Khymera) and Daniel Palmqvist (Xorigin, The Murder of My Sweet) among others. Release is expected in the winter 2012. Former Boston singer Fran Cosmo is working on a debut solo album for Frontiers Records. The album is taking shape in a recording studio in Woodstock NY under the direction of producer Phil Greene. Fran promises to deliver a 100% Melodic Rock album which will please all the fans of Boston, Orion The Hunter and RTZ. There will be many surprises for the Melodic Rock fans and those will be revealed shortly. Stay tuned for more news! Billy Greer's Seventh Key new album recording is well underway under the direction of guitarist/producer/songwriter Mike Slamer. Vocalist Terry Brock will record his background vocals in the next few weeks and the record will be ready to be mixed. The fans can expect another slice of Melodic Hard Rock Heaven! FATE AND ALFONZETTI ALBUMS DUE IN 2012: AOR Heaven will release new albums by Fate and Alfonzetti on November 25. These are the final releases for AOR Heaven/Metal Heaven in 2011 and the next titles will be due for release in January 2012. Fate - Ghosts From The Past - Fate was formed in late '84 in Copenhagen, Denmark by Hank Sherman who left Mercyful Fate and got together with Jeff "Lox" Limbo (a.k.a. Jens Meiner), Bob Lance (a.k.a. Bjarne Holm) and Pete Steiner (a.k.a. Peter Steincke). During the 80's, the band was one of the leading forces of the Scandi Rock genre and released classic albums such as "Fate" (1985), "A Matter Of Attitude" (1986), "Cruisin' For A Brusin'" (1988) and "Scrath N' Sniff" (1990) and went permanently on the road – both as headliner and as support to Pretty Maids and Yngwie Malmsteen among others. Over the years, Fate went through a couple of line-up changes and remained to be active until 1993. The second chapter was opened when the Danish five-piece started to play live again in 2005. The release of the album "V" (2006), some more touring and yet more line-up changes followed. "Ghost From The Past" now is their sixth studio album in total and the first to feature singer Dagfinn Joensen on vocals, Danish guitar hero Torben Enevoldsen on the six string, Peter Steincke on bass, Jens Berglid on drums and Mikkel Henderson on keyboards. The CD was produced by Fate and Thomas Pedersen at various studios in Denmark and mastered by Torben Lysholm. With this album "Ghosts From The Past", Fate is truly back! Tracklist: 1. Children Of The Night, 2. Miracle, 3. Seeds Of Terror, 4. Fear Of The Stranger, 5. At the End Of The Day, 6. All That I Want, 7. Follow Your Heart, 8. Daddy´s Girl, 9. Moving On, 10. Murder, 11. The Last Time, 12. I Believe in Rock N Roll, 13. The Other Side. Soundfiles in advance: All That I want / Children Of The Night / Miracle. Band on the web: www.fatetheband.com.   xx Alfonzetti - Here Comes The Night - Born and raised in Stockholm, Sweden Matti Alfonzetti began his musical career in his early teens playing bass in the local Hard Rock band Heavy Waters. Later on, he was a member of the bands Bam Bam Boys, Water Front, Jagged Edge, Skintrade and Boxer. In 2000 Alfonzetti's first solo album 'Ready' saw the light of day – followed, two years later, by the album 'Machine'. Following this Matti started getting into songwriting and producing and had success producing and writing for bands such as The Poodles among others. One new project emerged in 2007, Road To Ruin, including drummer Tomas Broman and Sampo Axelsson and Lars Chriss of Lion's Share. 'Road To Ruin' came out the same year on Metal Heaven. Now, Alfonzetti's third solo album is ready. Titled 'Here Comes The Night', it is the Alfonzetti's return to the music and vocal style of first solo album 'Ready' with up to date production. This time Matti collaborated with drummer/ producer Daniel Flores and the albums includes guests such as Marcus Jidell (Evergrey) and Emil Fredholm (Plankton).The CD was recorded at Sound vs Science Studios and Atomic Rooster Studios, Stockholm. All songs were written and produced by Matti Alfonzetti and mixed and co-produced by Daniel Flores. Tracklist: 1. Losing You, 2. Here Comes The Night, 3. I'll Wait For You, 4. Heartbreaker, 5. Don't Listen To Your Heart, 6. Why Can´t You Love Me, 7. Lay Your Love On Me, 8. Rock N Roll Heart, 9. Set Me Free, 10. I Will Never Let You Fall. Soundfiles in advance: Here Comes The Night / I'll Wait For You / Losing You.   MAGNUM SNIPPETS FROM "EVOLUTION" AVAILABLE: Hugely influential British melodic hard rock group Magnum are set to release Evolution, on Steamhammer / SPV, on November 14th (Germany November 11th, USA/Canada November 22nd) which comes in a high value ecol media book. Snippets from the album are available now: soundcloud.com/steamhammer-spv/magnum-evolution-snippets. The line up of guitarist / songwriter / producer Tony Clarkin, vocalist Bob Catley, keyboard player Mark Stanway, bassist Al Barrow and drummer Harry James, have excelled themselves on 'Evolution', one of the strongest and most unusual best of albums in their illustrious (near-40-year) history to date. 'Evolution' contains eight songs from their previous comeback albums which were partial re-recorded and fully re-mixed , two from their much acclaimed "The Visitation" album (which cracked the Top 20 in Germany and made it to #3 in the UK Rock Charts as well as high chart entries in Sweden and Switzerland) and two totally new recorded songs. ROYAL HUNT REVEAL COVER ART FOR NEW CD: Royal Hunt: Show Me How to Live cover artwork revealed. The band is putting finishing touches on their new album at the NorthPoint Productions Studio and is getting ready to mix their new material shortly at Roasting House Studio in Sweden. Mastering shores will be handled by Jan Eliasson at Audio Planet Mastering.   CAGE REVEALS DETAILS OF THE NEW STUDIO ALBUM "SUPREMACY OF STEEL": All hail the "Supremacy Of Steel"! Cage has once again struck gold and forged their sixth release of pure Metal magic. Entitled Supremacy Of Steel, Cage has leapt forward another giant step on the path to Metal greatness by once again delivering a Heavy Metal monstrosity. This is set for worldwide release on November 25th, 2011 through Music Buy Mail in Europe and Heavy Metal Media in The US and rest of the world. Known for crafting great memorable songs, capturing the essence of the classic NWOBHM sound, and always sounding unique and modern, Cage somehow effortlessly shows how the limits of the genre can be pushed without losing what makes the Heavy Metal sound a worldwide calling for the faithful. Throughout the 11 tracks, all the smashing Cage elements are found along with fresh new surprises that are tastefully sprinkled about in just the right fashion. From the blast beats in the opening scream fest "Bloodsteel", to the eerie King Diamond-like falsettos in "Annaliese Michel", Cage fans new and old will be banging their heads with horns in the air throughout this entire long player for decades to come. "Supremacy Of Steel" also contains the epic, long awaited sequel song "Hell Destroyer vs. Metal Devil" and a remake of their unreleased cult classic song, "Braindead Woman". Anthems like "Metal Empire" and "King Of The Wasteland" will have all Metal fans unable to resist such true, convincing Metal emotion. Their latest and greatest line-up yet includes the hulking frame of riff master Dave 'Conan' Garcia, the unmatched vocal diversity and range of singer Sean 'The Hell Destroyer' Peck, drummer Norm 'The Legend' Leggio also of Psychotic Waltz, and debuting the new additions of thunder-thrash guitarist Steve 'Bloodsteel' BrogdeN and the amazing bass playing of one Americas best, Pete 'Hands Of' Stone. All the power and speed from their previous award winning albums has once more been ramped up with faster drums, blazing leads and riffs that will stay with you into the night, and the highest of inhumanly impossible supersonic screams. This is all pointless without great songs but Cage has always had their song writing as their greatest strength and "Supremacy Of Steel" is absolutely no exception. Cage has carved yet another stone to fit into the foundation that reinforces their title as the American Power Metal Kings. As always, Cage has spared no expense when it comes to the presentation and packaging of their products. The amazing artwork of Marc Sasso (Dio, Halford, Marvel Comics) depicts the band in a live setting with the very Metal Godz themselves looking down upon the mayhem! The 16 page interior booklet is second to none with various artists chronicling the contents of each song in vivid color and truly has to be seen to be believed. It may be the finest looking metal booklet ever and that is no exaggeration! The special pre order packages are available at www.cageheavymetal.com and have been extended until October 31st. These will include both bonus tracks, a special sticker, a full color poster, a CDR with unreleased versions and bonus tracks, and other Metal goodies. Cage "Supremacy Of Steel" tracklisting: 1. Bloodsteel (featuring guest artist Bitterfrost) 2. The Beast Of Bray Road 3. King Of The Wasteland 4. Metal Empire 5. War Of The Undead 6. Flying Fortress 7. Doctor Doom 8. Annaliese Michel 9. Braindead Woman 10. The Monitor 11. Hell Destroyer vs. Metal Devil. Bonus track for Europe: 12. Skinned Alive / Bonus track USA and rest of the world: 12. Blood White And Blue. A link to the song "Bloodsteel" from the "Supremacy Of Steel" album which features guest artist Bitterfrost on guitar. He can be found at www.bitterfrost.com - Listen to "Bloodsteel": soundcloud.com/heavymetalmedia/bloodsteel. Cage official website: www.cageheavymetal.com / www.facebook.com/cageofficial.   HEXFIRE DEBUT ALBUM OUT IN NOVEMBER: According to the band's website, Hexfire debut album The Fire of Redemption will be released on November 8 (USA) and November 11 (Europe & Asia) via Nightmare Records & Sony/Red Distribution. The album can be pre-ordered on Amazon worldwide. "The Fire of Redemption" features guest appearances by Niclas Etelavuori (Amorphis), Novy (ex-Behemoth & Vader), Alex Holzwarth (Rhapsody of Fire, Avantasia), Jonno Lodge (ex- Paul Di'Anno, Biomechanical, Darke Horse), Diego 'Grom' Meraviglia (Testing Tomorrow, ex-Ancient & Doomsword), Kasper Gram (Manticora), Martin Arendal (Manticora, Wuthering Heights), Kristian Larsen (Manticora), and Kel'Thuz (Spiritual Demise, Sorcerer). For more info visit Hexfire official Facebook: www.facebook.com/hexfireofficial or Hexfire official MySpace: www.myspace.com/hexfireofficial.

 

 

Friday, October 07, 2011

STEVE PERRY'S STREET TALK – A VINYL CLASSIC: Steve Perry Oversees Meticulous Remastering of His 1984 Solo Album Debut, Featuring #1 "Oh Sherrie" 180-gram virgin vinyl edition available everywhere starting November 1, 2011, through Columbia/Legacy Street Talk is released simultaneously with CD and gatefold double 180-gram virgin vinyl edition of brand new Journey collection, Greatest Hits Vol. 2 – and gatefold double 180-gram virgin vinyl edition of original Greatest Hits. All overseen by Steve Perry. Nearly three decades after its initial release in 1984, Street Talk, the debut solo album from Journey lead singer Steve Perry, has been meticulously remastered for a new generation of rock fans who are rediscovering the sonic wonders of vinyl. The RIAA double-platinum classic, featuring the #1 single "Oh Sherrie" (and follow-up hits "Foolish Heart," "I Believe," "She's Mine" and "Strung Out") will be available as an audiophile 180-gram LP in original artwork, starting November 1, 2011, through Columbia/Legacy, a division of Sony Music Entertainment. The LP will also come with an exclusive free bonus download of the specially mastered-for-vinyl digital files. As many long time fans remember, Street Talk was one of the most successful albums of the original MTV era. The classic video for "Oh Sherrie" - in which Steve lampoons the high-concept video making that was popular at the time - became a memorable touchstone on its own, marking one of the first times an artist broke the standard album-version formula of early MTV. Two other videos, "Foolish Heart" and "Strung Out" followed, with Perry showing his varied roots – namely Soul and Rock music – as well as poking fun at the industry that was rapidly making him a household name. For the new remastering, Steve worked at long-time industry standard The Mastering Lab in Ojai, CA – using the original master tapes – with engineer Robert Hadley to achieve what he feels is the definitive vinyl version of the album. "I started with a pristine 24bit/96khz transfer of the original stereo mix and went from there. We used Pro Tools to bring out some of the subtle frequencies and moments in the original mixes that, in the old world of live analog hands-on console mixing would get compromised. Now we can take our time and really make the original tracks shine. This hybrid of analog and digital is, in my opinion, the wave of the future. The vinyl pressings also sound fantastic! The RTI pressing plant really knows how to take the lacquers we created and press some amazing audiophile-quality vinyl. I truly feel like this is the way this album was supposed to sound!" – Steve Perry Street Talk by Steve Perry (Columbia/Legacy 88697 93882 1originally issued April 1984, as Columbia 39334) Selections: 1. Oh Sherrie (1st single, Rock #1, Hot 100 #3) • 2. I Believe (2nd single, Rock #43) • 3. Go Away • 4. Foolish Heart (5th single, Hot 100 #18) • 5. It's Only Love • 6. She's Mine (3rd single, Rock #15, Hot 100 #21) • 7. You Should Be Happy • 8. Running Alone • 9. Captured by the Moment • 10. Strung Out (4th single, Rock #17, Hot 100 #40). WebLinks: www.legacyrecordings.com.   HOUSE OF LORDS, FIONA AND SEB BACH ALL ON ARFM: This weekend sees James Christian (House Of Lords) and Fiona join ARfm on Saturday talking to Steve Price about their new albums and on Sunday Steve is joined by Sebastian Bach. There is also the possibility of another Firefest act getting in on the live action. Tune in at www.arfm.co.uk. SWEET SOUNDS 2011 ROCK FEST (St. LOUIS @ 21 ROCK): The Sweet Sounds Rock Festival for St. Louis at Club 21 Rock on Saturday October 15th will be starting at 3:00 PM with a powerful line-up. Kicking off the festival is Thirteen-A- Cross followed by Salvage, The Air On Everest, Matt & The City Limits, Magic Man, Counterfeit Diary, Tom Fuller Band, Drivin Rain, Lynch, and Strikeforce. The show will be hosted by musician/actor Matt Berman who stars in upcoming movie "Men In Black 3" and is featured on HBO's series "Boardwalk Empire". T-shirts, cd's , posters, food/drinks are available with a low admission price. Go to www.sweetsounds.us for more info.   ETERNAL FLIGHT - D.R.E.A.M.S. OUT NOVEMBER 4: Eternal Flight - D.r.e.a.m.s. / Eternal Flight Association/Yesterrock - Release date: 04.11.2011 Aware of the importance of a third album release by a band, Eternal Flight, one of France's leading Power/ Prog Metal acts from the Haute-Savoie took time to care its new offering to propose a special and clashing album. Founded by skilled singer Gérard Fois in the year 2001 after the split of his band Dream Child with whom he had recorded two albums, the new songs are certainly the most effective and creative proposed until now. The Frenchman also played bass, keys and acoustic guitars, wrote all the songs and was at the production helm on this new release which shows a wider broad of styles and influences incorporated to their Melodic Metal. To make this album 'Diminished Reality, Elegies and Mysteries' ('D.r.e.a.m.s' for the close friends!) even more special, distinguished guests agreed enthusiastically to take part in this work. It is at first the Brazilian drummer Ricardo Confessori (Angra, Shaman) who after listening to demos was ready for this adventure and played on (almost) all the album and by marking the rhythm section with his style. For certain solos, world-class guitarists Mark Mc Gee (ex Vicious Rumors), Chris Caffery (Tran-Siberian Orchestra, Savatage) from the USA and Rob Love Magnusson (Dynazty) from Sweden were acquired. The band line-up as it is now is completed by Julien Racine (drums), Adrien Zoni (bass) and Chris Gojon (guitars) who all brilliantly played on the intro and the cover tribute to the great Ronnie James Dio, 'Night People'. With 'D.r.e.a.m.s', Eternal Flight hail towards real international recognition after two noticed and positively welcomed albums released worldwide. This record is available as digi pack. The band: Gérard Fois: Lead and backing vocals, acoustic guitars, keyboards, bass. Julien Bouvier: Rhythm and lead guitars on all songs. Chris Gojon: Rhythm and lead guitars on "Introduction To D.r.e.a.m.s" and "Night People". Julien Racine: Drums on "Introduction…" and "Night People". Adrien Zoni: Bass on "Introduction…" and "Night People". The guests: Ricardo Confessori: Drums except on "Introduction To D.r.e.a.m.s" and "Night People". Mark Mc Gee: lead guitars on "Goodbye" and "The Meeting" and slide guitars on "The Meeting". Chris Caffery: lead guitars on the outro of "Goodbye". Rob Love Magnusson: lead guitars on "Fantasea" and "The Tower". Band on the web: www.facebook.com/pages/ETERNAL-FLIGHT/264096419279.   EDDIE MONEY IS NEW MORNING SHOW HOST FOR THE RIVER: From: blogs.ajc.com/radio-tv-talk/2011/10/06/eddie-money-new-morning-show-host-for-the-river "Imagine when he does the two tickets to paradise giveaway. Classic rocker Eddie Money has been tapped to do mornings on The River 97.1 starting Monday at 6 a.m. The guy behind such radio classics as "Take Me Home Tonight," "Baby Hold On" and "Think I'm in Love" will record the majority of his shows from his home in Los Angeles, but will come to Atlanta periodically. Money was in town last week to lay down a couple days worth of "Money in the Morning" shows. Cagle, program director at The River, said the station wanted to "make a big splash" and started thinking about different artists who might make a good radio host. A friend of Cagle's who knew Money approached him in Los Angeles and asked how he felt about doing radio. Money bit, and will now host a weekday show from 6-9 a.m. "He's got a natural knack," said Cagle. "He loves to talk, he tells some great stories and has great information that people would never hear otherwise about being on tour with Led Zeppelin, being on the road with the Eagles, those kinds of things." As this is Money's first foray into radio, Cagle will serve as a coach, listening to Money's recordings and providing advice. The show won't air live – at least at first – while Money settles in. Keep an ear out for announcements about Money making some appearances in Atlanta to promote "Money in the Morning." MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated. This week it is a Streets special featuring: - Steve Walsh & Streets - Demos - 2CDs (35 tracks!) - Streets - Baccanal Theater - San Diego, CA December 5, 1983 (9 Track Radio Broadcast) - Night Ranger - VH1 That Metal Show Interview (Video Download) MRX Membership Details. REVIEWS UPDATED: Reviews have been updated with the following new reviews: Shy, Grand Design, Saracen, Gary John Barden and John Farnham. Read The Reviews.

 

 

Thursday, October 06, 2011

MICHAEL EDEN DEPARTS EDEN'S CURSE: Eden's Curse vocalist Michael Eden has released this statement: To the fans and press that have supported Eden's Curse - "I've decided to depart Eden's Curse because I can't support the "trophy vision" Eden's Curse has become during the last few months. When it becomes more about "the trophy" and less about real professional business and the needed success it truly takes to stay afloat, it leaves many unresolved questions. Anyone who runs a business will tell you there are profits and losses expected the first few years in any business. Eden's Curse became a chess game and that was unacceptable on all levels to me as the guy who formed the band. I will not allow anyone to devalue the band while I'm in it. If you play for minimum fees as a band you "set your worth" and that word gets out you can be obtained cheaply. Why pay more when you can pay less? This became the reason we toured very little. Nobody wanted to pay fees that made sense and many tours were looked at believe me. I became the pawn in the game and that's okay. I excused myself from the party because honestly the "figure heads" bored me to tears. Breaking even financially is for guys who take holidays and play rock star on other people's money. Ryan Northrop (Metal Mayhem Music/USA) was one of the many who spent large amounts of money so others could wear the big boy pants and play Rock Star in front of people who didn't know the wiser. Why leave now some might ask? The real question is why did I stay so long? I was holding onto something that was not there to begin with. Some learn from mistakes and some pretend they never make any. I'll be around, count on it!!! Thanks for your belief, loyalty and support ~ Michael Eden. GOTTHARD TALK STEVE LEE - ONE YEAR ON: Dear Gotthard fans, finally the time has come. On September 30th 2011 the long awaited and previously announced album Homegrown – Alive In Lugano will be released. Homegrown – Alive In Lugano contains a live recording from July 17, 2010 in Lugano, the hometown of the band. It is one of the last concerts with singer Steve Lee, who tragically died on October the 5 2010 and therefore the last opportunity for all of us to enjoy his fantastic voice just one more time. The album also contains very special bonus material with a.o. the touching and previously unreleased song The Train, which Gotthard recorded together with Steve, in an intimate atmosphere, "live in the studio". Homegrown – Alive In Lugano - In commemoration of the first anniversary of Steve Lee's death and especially in memory of - in the most personal way - a very kind person and one of the best rock singers in the world! Gotthard: "Everything started in Lugano and it's exactly there where the circle of what we experienced with our friend Steve Lee, closes". Marc, Leo, Hena und Freddy want to especially thank you all with Homegrown – Alive In Lugano - for the extraordinary support during this last year. For Gotthard Homegrown – Alive In Lugano is also a kind of closure of a very hard and difficult year. The time has come that our guys can look positively forward again and we will definitely hear lots of news from them soon. We're already looking forward to that! Rock on and enjoy Homegrown – Alive In Lugano. ~ The Gotthard Family. MELODIC BRIEFS: After a well deserved summer break, the 'Queen of the Scene' Pilar Sanchez is back with the latest edition of AhORa Rock. Jam packed with the latest releases from the likes of White Widdow, Reckless Love, Issa, Saracen, House of Lords, Fiona, Shy, Kimball/Jamison, Fergi Frederiksen and more, this is an absolute must for any fan of AOR and melodic rock. Free to listen to online or download, check it out at www.rocktopia.net. Guns N Roses - or the Axl Rose Band have put another nail in the coffin of the real GNR legacy with this painful live performance from Rock In Rio! Check this utter shite out: youtu.be/pQROmR25F-0. Cupids Trail is singer and songwriter Mats Nilsson's (MarysCreek, Sins IV Ages) brand new project. Cupids Trail is his pure dedication to melodic and classic hardrock with great melodies, heavy guitars, pounding drums…and of course Mats well known and characteristic voice. On the new demo called Pure Dedication Mats plays all instruments except the lead guitars which is handled by Jonas Hallberg (MarysCreek, Simon Says). You can listen to some clip at the official Cupids Trail site at www.cupidstrail.com (media/music). On this week's Hair Metal Haven Chris Nelson will be talking to Queensryche Vocalist Geoff Tate about the new album Dedicated To Chaos, his wine emporium, and life in general. With new tracks from Grand Design, Grand Illusion, Serpentine. Omega, Shy, Vain, Taxxi and loads more, join Chris this Saturday 8th October 17.00-18.00gmt on www.phoenixradio.co.uk. Cornerstone presents new video "Stay" from the album "Somewhere in America", last week exclusive played by the Austrian music channel GOTV, the clip is now on various online platforms available. Produced by The Cockpit (Director: Christian Enzlmüller) - www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZf0M4sZ4H8. SCOTLAND GAINS NEW ROCK RADIO SHOW: Press Release / "There's about to be a re-launch of a new Rock Show on a local radio station based in Caithness, in the North Highlands of Scotland. The station doesn't yet broadcast online, so if anyone is on holiday in that area that is the only way they will hear it for now. The show is to be called "Rockulus Maximus" and I'm very excited to have the prospect to play all styles of Rock music, not only the mainstream forms, but also to include melodic rock bands. There are so many good melodic rock bands around the world that it's criminal they don't get more air time, so I thought that every little helps. If there are any bands who wish to get their music played within this environment, or wish to provide a 'show ident' I would love to hear from them. When I say a 'show ident', I mean a very short message that is in an MP3 windows media friendly format. It could be along the lines of "Hi, I'm __ from the band __ and you're listening to Gary on Rockulus Maximus". It's really that simple. If you're interested in helping out and contributing in either of these ways, please send an email to RockulusMelodic@gmail.com." SIN CITY SINNERS JOINED BY SEBASTIAN BACH: Oct 17th, Las Vegas' favorite band Sin City Sinners welcome special guest Sebastian Bach. In addition to playing hits from his former band Skid Row, Sebastian will also perform his new single "Kicking & Screaming" with The Sinners. The show takes place at The Crown Theater (inside The Rio Hotel) in Las Vegas Sin City Sinners & The Crown are Offering a limited amount of FREE tickets by visiting managevhs.com/web/vhs/crown/mnr/tickets/default.asp?txtShow=39. Sin City Sinners will feature Brent Muscat (Faster Pusssycat) Rob Cournoyer (Raging Slab) Dr Michael Ellis, Louie Merlino (Beggars & Thieves) and Jimmy Crespo (former lead guitarist of Aerosmith). Sin City Sinners have released two CDs of original music, Exile On Fremont Street and Broken Record. Both are available on iTunes. In 2011, the Sinners were voted Best In Vegas in the prestigious 2011 Las Vegas Review Journals Reader's Poll, and their music video 'Goin' To Vegas' received the 32nd Annual Telly Award. On Nov 25th The band will release "A Sinners Christmas" featuring appearances by George Lynch, Slim Jim Phantom, Pete Loran, Jizzy Pearl, Ron Keel, Frank Dimino & more. For more visit: www.facebook.com/pages/Sin-City-Sinners/141717162529765 or thesincitysinners.com.

 

 

Wednesday, October 05, 2011

EVERGREY TO RELEASE GREATEST HITS COLLECTION: Swedish Metallers Evergrey have confirmed the release date for A Decade and a Half a two disc greatest hits collection. This deluxe package containing previously unreleased songs, live tracks and an extensive 24 page booklet (incl. liner notes and unreleased photos) will be available in Europe on November 28. Since the band arrived on the scene with their first album in 1998, Evergrey have brought out eight studio albums and one live release. All of them made the top 20 in their native Sweden and the last two made the top 10. On top of that, their DVD "A Night To Remember" was number 1 for four weeks and nominated for a Grammy in Sweden. Their last single "Wrong" received a gold award in April 2011 for over 10.000 sold copies in Sweden. Check out the video for the Evergrey single Wrong: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xU6HB27MNzY. Evergrey will embark on a headline European tour in November 2011: 04.11. SE-Mariestad – KG5 05.11. SE-Gothenburg – Sticky Fingers 09.11. NL-Tilburg – 013 10.11. NL-Kerkrade – The Rock Temple 11.11. B-Genk – Rondpunt 26 12.11. B-Mons – On Air Studio (more shows will be announced soon) Track Listing A Decade And A Half: CD1: 01. The Masterplan 02. Blackened Dawn ( Live ) 03. Rulers Of The Mind 04. A Touch Of Blessing 05. Frozen 06. For Every Tear That Falls ( Live ) 07. More Than Ever 08. Blinded 09. Faith Restored 10. These Scars 11. Broken Wings 12. Words Mean Nothing 13. Wrong (live) 03:12 (unplugged - previously unreleased). CD2: 01.The Great Deceiver 02. Monday Morning Apocalypse 03. Wrong 04. Waking Up Blind ( Live ) 05. Solitude Within 06. Recreation Day 07. Still In The Water 08. Leave It Behind Us 09. Fear 04:15 10. When The Walls Go Down ( Live ) 11. Frozen (live) (unplugged - previously unreleased). Current Line-Up: Tom S. Englund - vocals, guitars; Marcus Jidell - guitars; Johan Niemann - bass; Rikard Zander - keyboards; Hannes van Dahl - drums. For More Info Visit: www.evergrey.net / www.facebook.com/evergrey / www.spv.de.   JAMES CHRISTIAN TALKS ABOUT HEALTH SCARE AND CANCELS TOUR DATES: House Of Lords have cancelled their planned European tour dates upon the advice of doctors acting for frontman James Christian, who has been fighting Prostate Cancer during 2011. A statement from James reads: "This is James Christian from House Of Lords. I have some rather bad news for you. We need to reschedule the shows we have planned in Oct/Nov. The truth is, I had an operation for Prostate Cancer a few months back and was hoping that I would be better in time for these shows, but my doctor feels I need two more months rest before performing again. He feels it is best if we reschedule the tour for either February or March. My apologies for this. I really thought I was gonna be well enough. I feel terrible about this, but we do want to reschedule if we can. It saddens me to tell you this so late. Doctors say I am gonna be fine, but I do need a few months before performing again." ~ Best James. SCORPIONS REVEAL PRETTY ORDINARY ALBUM TRACK LISTING: The tracklist of Scorpions' upcoming album Comeblack has been revealed. And the choice of cover tunes seems pretty ordinary in my opinion: Re-recordings: 1.Rhythm Of Love 2. No One Like You 3. The Zoo 4. Rock You Like A Hurricane 5. Blackout 6. Still Loving You 7. Wind Of Change. Covers: 8. Tainted Love (Soft Cell), 9. Children Of The Revolution (T. Rex) 10. Across The Universe (The Beatles) 11. Tin Soldier (Small Faces) 12. All Day And All Of The Night (The Kinks) 13. Ruby Tuesday (The Rolling Stones). The Still Loving You single (named Still Loving You - Je T'Aime Encore) will be available for download in France on October 10: www.amazon.fr/Still-Loving-You-taime-encore/dp/B005RCPG46/ref=sr_shvl_album_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1317746887&sr=301-1. Scorpions French Fan-Club (www.crazyscorps.com).   INTRODUCING AOR STARZ: Press Release / "The year is 2011 and funny things are afoot in the 'rock n roll' galaxy…Music has come full circle and the classic American 'Radio Rock' or 'AOR/FM Rock' of the late 70's/early 80's is again heavily back in vogue and appealing to a whole new generation - with legendary tracks such as Boston's "More Than A Feeling" & REO Speedwagon's "Can't Fight This Feeling" appearing on national TV commercials. Huge arena tours by Journey, Styx & Foreigner are selling out….and Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" has provided the soundtrack to the climactic scenes of the final episode of 'The Sopranos'. Not only that, but the song broke worldwide again with its appearance in hit TV show 'Glee', resulting in it going on to become the 'most downloaded song of all time' and the 'Number One Single of the entire 20th Century' (certified by 'Nielsen Soundscan')! Amazing stuff, we're sure you'll agree….. but this resurgence in good time 'classic AOR/FM Rock' doesn't end there! On Broadway, a show called 'Rock Of Ages' (based around this music) became a MONSTER hit - leading to it opening on the London 'West End' stage in September 2011! More IMPORTANTLY though - an amazing group of 7 highly experienced and accomplished musicians has decided to take up the mantle of reproducing the lush harmonies, stunning arrangements, addictive choruses and soaring guitars that epitomise this musical form…… That band is AOR Starz! "AOR Starz" is not just an opportunistic project – it is instead 7 huge fans of this classic music who want, nay demand, that people get to hear the classics performed to an incredibly high standard with a full 'live production'. Indeed, the set list features many legendary songs that most cover or tribute bands wouldn't even DARE to attempt, let alone carry off with such panache and style! Expect to hear the likes of: Boston, Journey, Styx, Toto, Foreigner, Kansas, REO Speedwagon, Night Ranger, Heart, Jefferson Starship, Loverboy, Cheap Trick, Survivor, Triumph and more! So, who are these AOR Star-troopers? AOR Starz are: Carl Sentence (vocals) – of 'Don Airey Band', 'Whole Lotta Metal', 'The Classic Rock Show', 'Krokus', 'Persian Risk', 'Tokyo Blade', 'Ghost', sessions etc Tracey Gwynne (vocals) – of 'Slipstream' and numerous touring 'musical/theatrical' productions! Greg Hart (guitar/bv's) – of 'Limehouse Lizzy' (Thin Lizzy tribute), 'The Jackie Generation', Hartless', 'Moritz' (UK AOR cult legends!), sessions etc! Mike Nolan (guitar/bv's) – of 'The Bohemians' (Queen Tribute), 'Moritz' (UK AOR cult legends!), sessions etc Gary Piears-Banton (bass/bv's) – of 'Dressed To Kill' (Kiss Tribute), 'Mystic Game', 'Double Eclipse', 'The Band With No Name', sessions etc Andy Stewart (keys/bv's) – of 'The Jackie Generation', 'Moritz' (UK AOR cult legends!), MD of various musical/theatrical productions & much more! Tony Piper (drums) – of 'Vice Squad', numerous sessions (inc. 'Moritz') etc "AOR Starz" are looking forward to hitting the stage and can be seen at: Sat 17th Dec 2011 – Crewe 'The Box' (late show 11pm) Fri 10th Feb 2012 – Stourbridge 'River Rooms' Fri 24th Feb 2012 – Mansfield 'Forest town Welfare' Please spread the word and come along to not only show your support - but also celebrate some of the finest music in the world!" www.facebook.com/aorstarz.   xx POWER QUEST PART WAYS WITH YET ANOTHER SINGER!: POWER QUEST has announced that vocalist Chity Somapala has left the band. The full press release reads as follows: "We are sorry to have to announce that Chity Somapala has left Power Quest, making the appearance at BOA his last with the band. Chity decided that, at this stage of his career, he wanted to move away from metal to focus on his solo work which is more rock and blues based. Power Quest mainman Steve Williams commented: "Clearly the last thing I wanted after releasing the Blood Alliance album earlier this year was to have another line-up change, having been through so many in recent times. Having said that, we all have to do what is right for us at specific points in time and we part ways with Chity on very good terms and wish him all the very best for the future. 'Myself, Andy, Paul, Rich and Gav have been auditioning potential replacements for the past couple of months and we have now decided on who will be the man to take up the frontman role in the band. We would like to thank everyone who has submitted recordings and travelled to auditions as well. We are already hard at work rehearsing for the UK dates in November and we can promise quite a different set list to what we have been performing so far this year. We will be revealing the identity of our new frontman very soon.....this guy blew us away at the auditions!' "The first shows with the new vocalist will be in Bedford on November 25 and Wakefield on November 27, and the Wakefield show will be streamed live on the web!" ~ Steve Williams - Keyboardist for Power Quest. LA GUNS (TRACII VERSION) GETS FEMALE LEAD VOCALIST: From Gibson.com: "Tracii Guns has confirmed that Dilana Robichaux has joined L.A. Guns as the band's new vocalist. The news comes just days after a recent audition as reported by Gibson.com last week. "Dilana is the new singer for L.A. Guns," Tracii confirmed in a statement. "After an incredible amount of scrutiny and mixed opinions the final straw was her audition, where she completely took control of the environment by injecting a type of soul into these old new songs that I have never heard before. After getting responses from the label, my agent and manager - who are all really into a drastic positive change for L.A. Guns and myself - we all feel this is a ballsy and risky change that we all collectively feel good about. I expect there will be some changes in the live setlist and I hope we can get straight into writing mode ASAP and record some fresh rock n' roll, also ASAP." South Africa-born Robichaux was a runner-up on the TV show Rock Star: Supernova, whose winner Lucas Rossi went on to form a band with Motley Crue's Tommy Lee, Gilby Clarke (ex-Guns 'n' Roses) and Jason Newstead (ex-Metallica). She was recently honored by the Mayor of the City of Los Angeles for her work as a spokeswoman for domestic violence foundation Safe Passage. MELODIC BRIEFS: A release date for Soul Secret upcoming album "Closer To Daylight" has been set: November 21, 2011. The album will be published throughout Galileo Records and will see the guest appearances of Marco Sfogli (James Labrie) and Arno Menses (Sieges Even, Subsignal). www.soulsecret.net. Alien Ant Farm is proud to announce their new deal with the Executive Music Group label via Fontana/Universal. The original line-up--Dryden Mitchell (lead vocals), Mike Cosgrove (drums), Terry Corso (guitar), Tye Zamora (bass)--will start to work on their fourth album in November and is looking to release it Spring 2012. It'll be their first release since 2006's Up In The Attic, which spawned the hit single "Forgive And Forget," and the first with the original line-up since 2003. An interview with Joe Satriani about the new Chickenfoot album: iheartguitarblog.com/2011/09/interview-joe-satriani-on-chickenfoot-iii.html.

 

 

Tuesday, October 04, 2011

FIRST PREVIEW OF NEW SCORPIONS: Listen to Scorpions' new version of Still Loving You, taken from the band's upcoming new album Comeblack and featuring a duet with French 2009 Pop Idol Winner Amandine Bourgeois, is available on the website Charts In France: www.chartsinfrance.net/Scorpions/news-75961.html. HOUSTON READY FOR RELAUNCH: The new Houston mini-album Relaunch will be released November 14, but will be sold exclusively at this years Firefest festival in October. It will feature the following songs - 6 covers, 1 new original song & 2 acoustic: 1) Runaway (originally recorded by US rockers Dakota) 2) Carrie (originally recorded by Michael Bolton) 3) Brief Encounter (originally recorded by UK melodic maestros Airrace and featuring Airrace's Laurie Mansworth on guest guitar) 4) Don't You Know What Love Is (originally recorded by US outfit Touch, the first band ever to play the Monsters Of Rock festival, and featuring Touch keyboard player Mark Mangold on guest vox) 5) Don't Ever Wanna Lose You (originally recorded by US four-piece New England, whose self-titled debut album was produced by Kiss' Paul Stanley) 6) Didn't We Almost Win It All (originally recorded by the late Laura Branigan) 7) Without Your Love (original song written by Ricky Delin; a duet with Amaranthe front-woman Elize Ryd) 8) Truth Slips (acoustic recording) 9) 1000 Songs (acoustic recording)   xx SCOTT ROCKENFIELD OF QUEENSRYCHE ON 'LIVE FROM MUSIC CITY': Press Release / "Live From Music City, a weekly radio show that airs on Tuesday nights at 8:00 pm CST on blog talk radio (www.blogtalkradio.com/live-from-music-city), welcomes Scott Rockenfield of Queensryche (www.queensryche.com) to discuss his career in the music industry. Scott was raised and has lived in the Seattle, Washington area his entire life. He started music and drum lessons at the age of 11, and throughout his high school years he focused his studies on music and film classes. In 1981, at the age of 17, he founded the now multi-platinum rock band Queensryche. Since the band's inception thirty years ago, they have sold over 20 million albums worldwide and have toured around the world, encompassing 45 countries. www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHapAsmvGEU&ob=av2e In addition to the phenomenal success of Queensryche, Scott can claim huge success in other musical arenas, such as scoring music for the film and television industries. After only a few years in the specialty, Scott received a coveted Grammy Award for Best Original Music for the animated feature film "Televoid." In 2003, Scott launched his own custom drum company, "RockenWraps," which specializes in custom graphic laminated wraps for drums and musical instruments, having designed some of the most memorable drum and stage graphics ever to be available. He also has his own music company, "Hollywood Loops," that specializes in Sound FX for film, television and video game composing. Hollywood Loops products have been used in video games such as "Call of Duty: Black Ops" and in numerous film and television trailers. "Live From Music City" reaches and appeals to singers/musicians who have achieved at least mid-level entry points in their careers. We try to help the artists define the steps they need to take to advance their careers. We discuss a variety of topics through commentary and with guests to showcase their roles within the performing and recording industry. We also focus on the music business from the perspective of service to the artist, as well as how the artist can achieve the next levels of success. While we concentrate on the roles of the 'insiders,' we also include recording artists themselves to better understand and explore the relationship between the two." ROGER DALTREY: "CONTEMPORARY MUSIC LACKS LEAD SINGERS": Let's here an "Amen Roger!" - www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/roger-daltrey-0930-2011/ "Roger Daltrey says contemporary music is suffering from a lack of great lead singers, and TV shows such as American Idol are partly to blame. Speaking to the Associated Press, the veteran frontman said, "A lot of the new people they choose on shows like American Idol and things like that — I don't ever hear lead singers. They always seem to pick people that are great singers, fabulous singers, but they've never got the voice that makes a great lead singer." Daltrey went on to cite several examples of lead vocalists he considers top-tier. "You hear ten seconds of Rod Stewart, you know it's Rod Stewart," he said. "Ten-seconds of Mick Jagger, that's Mick Jagger. Ten-seconds of Eddie Vedder, you know that's Eddie." As regards the younger crowd, he did name one exception to what he considers the dearth of great vocalists. "I love Adele," he said, referring to the British soul singer whose sophomore disc, 21, is the top-selling album in both the U.S. and the U.K. this year. "That's a lead singer, [she's] the real deal." JOE BONAMASSA ANNOUNCES UK SOLO TOUR: Award-winning blues rock star, guitar hero and singer-songwriter Joe Bonamassa and his ace touring band will undertake a major UK arena tour in March 2012. Tickets go on sale Friday October 7th at 10am from the 24 Hour Box Office: 0844 249 1000, or book online - www.thegigcartel.com. Planet Rock will be running an exclusive 48-hour ticket pre-sale from Wednesday October 5th at 9am. Visit www.planetrock.com for further information about the pre-sale. Fresh off a successful European tour with Black Country Communion, and rave reviews of BCC's "2" album, Joe's forthcoming UK solo tour will see him perform material from his current studio album "Dust Bowl" plus songs from his vast catalogue of albums including "A New Day Yesterday", "The Ballad of John Henry", "Sloe Gin" and "Black Rock". Joe's band features Carmine Rojas (bass), Rick Melick (keyboards) and Tal Bergman (drums). Joe will also preview songs from his new studio album due for release in late May 2012. To receive a free download of the single 'Dust Bowl' from Joe's most recent album go to the following link - bitly.com/joeukproct. MR. BIG VOCALIST ERIC MARTIN FEATURED IN NEW THE RIGHT TO ROCK PODCAST: TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest podcast (episode #126), featuring Mr. Big Vocalist Eric Martin. Eric took time out of his busy schedule to discuss Mr. Big's latest offering, What If... Eric also discussed how the new record came together as well as their current tour. Interview lasts approx. 25 min. What's bigger than seeing Mr. Big on their latest tour? Meeting Mr. Big on their latest tour. And that's just what Genghis and Ragman recently did for An Evening With...Eric Martin. Join the boys as they discuss Mr. Big's latest record What If... following it up with a live interview with Eric Martin. Eric and the band rolled out the welcome mat backstage at the House of Blues to discuss the band's first tour of the U.S. in years, as well as the possibilities of a new album.

 

 

Monday, October 03, 2011

IT BITES RELEASE NEW DOUBLE A SIDE SINGLE FOR OCTOBER TOUR: It Bites have been hard at work creating the follow up to their 2008 album The Tall Ships at Outhouse Studios in Reading. The new concept album Map of the Past will be released on Inside Out in early 2012 in England and Europe. In October It Bites are teaming up with Mostly Autumn to play 12 shows around the UK in a special double headlining package and will be playing songs from Big Lad and the Windmill and a suite of music from their new album. There will be a new limited edition double A side single on sale at the shows. The single will come in two formats a 7inch single and a 2 track CD Single. The two new songs are Map of the Past the title track from the concept album of the same name and Wallflower gives It Bites fans a chance to hear the direction the band will take in 2012. The single will be exclusively onsale at the I'll Meet You In The Autumn tour dates. It Bites / Mostly Autumn dates are: 14th October Newcastle The Riverside 0191 230 1813 - www.riversidenewcastle.co.uk 15th October Workington Carnegie  01900 602122 - www.carnegietheatre.co.uk 16th October Glasgow The Arches 0141 565 1000 – www.thearches.co.uk 18th October Nottingham Rescue Rooms 0845 413 4444 - www.rescuerooms.com 19th October Sale Waterside 0161 912 5616 - www.watersideartscentre.co.uk 21st October Clitheroe Grand Theatre 01200 421599 - www.thegrandvenue.co.uk 22nd October Holmfirth Picture Drome 0871 230 1101- www.picturedrome.net 23rd October Pontypridd, Wales- The Muni Arts Centre  08000 147111 - muni.rct-arts.org 24th October Milton Keynes Stables 01908 280800 - www.stables.org 26th October Leamington Assembly 01926 523 001 - www.leamingtonassembly.com 27th October Bilston Robin 2 01902 497 860 – www.therobin.co.uk 28th October -O2 Islington London 8222 6955 - www.o2academyislington.co.uk   THE POODLES TOUR CANCELLED: News from The Poodles: "We regret to inform you that we have been forced to cancel the "Performocracy European Tour" that was to take place in October and November this fall. Due to circumstances outside of our control it is no longer possible for us to go ahead as planned. We are extremely disappointed by this, and the lost opportunity to meet our European fans that wanted to see us perform. Thanks for your support! All the best ~ www.thepoodles.se. DAVID GLEN EISLEY STILL READY TO ROCK: Former Giuffria and Dirty White Boy vocalist David Glen Eisley has been quiet of late, but that doesn't mean he hasn't been busy. I asked David for an update on any projects in the works. He was kind enough to reply with this: "I have been very busy writing and managing my daughter's acting career which has found her coming out in "Underworld, Awakening" which will release January 20, 2012 worldwide. Her name is India Eisley. That has obviously been a high priority of mine. BUT as I said, I have been putting together songs and hopefully I will head to the studio and have something ready to go maybe by summer, 2012. Has been a long time and I would love to get back out on the road or at least the airwaves in some sort of way! Thanks for checking in and be sure to look for India along side Kate Beckinsale in the Underworld release! Very proud of her!" Thanks David! I'll keep in touch with the singer to see how his next project evolves. INTRODUCING CROSSROCK: Brazilian 80s hard rockers/glam trio Crossrock are giving final touches on their first album C'Mon Baby which will be ready in the next months. The trio are preparing also to recorded their official video clip (track not chosen yet) with the producer Claudio Tibérius (Destra, extreme metal torture squad among others). You can check it out more info about the band at: www.strikemet.com/english/management_crossrock.htm and a YouTube video from the band's recent gig at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5oXJmhWew4&feature=player_profilepage.   SUMMERS MAKING WAVES AHEAD OF DEBUT ALBUM: What do well-known producer Clyde Ward, Motorhead drummer Mikkey Dee and Steve Conte, guitarist with the Michael Monroe band have in common? They all know about "the new British bad boys of rock," Summers! Summers is actively gigging on the South Coast of England, in London and Europe and have just played this years Guilfest in the Unsigned tent where the guys impressed so much they were given a slot on the Rock stage the same day and have been asked back next year to possibly play the main stage. The bands radio campaign for the debut single Too Late is being handled by Canadian publicist Danie Cortese. The low budget video for our track Sometimes was Youtube's 42nd most watched musician's channel the week we popped it up on the site. The promo video for Too Late notched up so many hits in the first week that YouTube shut the guys down, believing the band were in breach of their anti-spam rules! Too Late is getting huge airplay around the world and which has lead to us getting the tag of the New Def Leppard. Take a look and listen to Summers at: www.officialsummers.com.   ITALIAN ROCKERS DO SOUTHERN ROCK: Press Release: "We would like to introduce to you the first album of the Italian Southern Rock band Smokey Fingers - Columbus Way, scheduled to be release for Tanzan Music on September the 23. The combo's main inspiration is taken from the American southern rock music, merged with blues and country, all mixed, shaken and served in a fresh and innovative version, a new vision, still related to the greatest bands of this genre. Columbus Way is based on a solid and sincere sound, the true sound of the band as it would have been taken in a live session. This engaging sound is enriched by several takes of slide guitar, dobro and lap guitar and will take the listener to the sunny and dusty roads of Alabama! The album has been recorded in the new and ultra-modern Tanzan Music Studio. Great attention has been paid in trying to catch the real spirit of the band, a band who has its natural habitat on the stage. Track Listing: Old Jack, The Lover, Chains Of Mind, Born To Run, Ride Of Love, Over The Line, Die For The Glory, The Good Country Side, Sweet Tears, Country Road, Crazy Woman, Devil's Song. For More Information: www.myspace.com/smokeyfingersband.   PETE FRY SPECIAL TOMORROW ON ARFM: On Tuesdays edition of Live and Loud on ARfm (www.arfm.co.uk) host Paul Nicholls will be doing a feature on the career of Pete Fry of Farcry. Paul and Pete are delving back to his first 80s bands and over the course of nearly an hour bringing the story up to date and into the future. This developed out of a conversation the guys started after an interview while chatting on the phone. Pete has supplied demo's and unreleased tracks that have not seen the light of day before. The show goes out at 10pm UK time on Tuesday 4th October. TANK HEADING BACK TO STUDIO WITH DOOGIE WHITE IN TOW: Tank - featuring Mick Tucker and Cliff Evans on guitar alongside ex-Rainbow/Yngwie Malmsteen frontman Doogie White, ex-Bruce Dickinson bassist Chris Dale and ex-Helloween/Firewind drummer Mark Cross - are back in action. Work has already begun on the follow up to the War Machine album from 2010. Doogie, Mick and Cliff have been busy writing new material. While it is too early to give details on the tracks, they are said to be in a similar vein to War Machine but with a heavier angle. Working song titles so far include, "One Thousand Deaths", "War Without End" and "Heavier Than Thou". The album is scheduled for release in early Spring 2012. Tank - photo by Tony Mottram The band is currently on a tour promoting War Machine album. Here are the remaining dates: Friday 30th September, Spain - Ritmo y Compas, Madrid Saturday 1st October, Spain - Martohell Festival, Barcelona (headlining) Friday 7th October, Holland - Rock Temple, Kerkrade Saturday 8th October, Belgium - Rock Of Ages Festival, Oostrozebeke (headlining) Fri 18th November, Sweden - Rock At Sea   FINLAND'S MYON PREPARING ALBUM NUMBER 5: Finland's melodic rockers Myon has inked a worldwide deal with Rock N Growl Management/Promotion. Myon band: "Myon proudly presents the new management deal in courtesy of Rock N Growl Promotion! With this new management deal we expect great international success with our forthcoming album; Vitalworks! We expect a great increase in live performances and touring. Also it is to be expected, that we will establish a more permanent and secure place within the European Central markets. And with this, more media visibility." The band's fifth full-length album Vitalworks is ready to release in 2012. Myon's fifth album Vitalworks (countdown to ground zero) is done. With this album, you have access to the biggest unused resource – unique album with unique sound - in the music industry today. As earlier albums has proved, Myon's tracks works for everybody involved in the rock scene. Ground Zero is a strong package of genius songs made with the highest level of professional touch. The new single "After It's Gone" Proves that all once again. Myon is taking music to the new direction and brings the rock to the new era 2011. Vitalworks era has began. After It's Gone Video - www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLBLGsLxj0M. Band: Jukka Nummi - vocals, Mika Pohjola - keyboards, Jyrki Laiho - guitars, Keijo Koivikko - bass, Matti Torro - drums. WebLinks: www.myonmusic.com / www.myspace.com/myonmusic / www.facebook.com/Myonmusic.

 

 

Friday, September 30, 2011

AEROSMITH - THE ULTIMATE ILLUSTRATED HISTORY: Aerosmith - The Ultimate Illustrated History of the Boston Bad Boys By Richard Bienstock 9.5 x 11.125, Hardcover, 224 pages 250 color & 150 b/w photos $35.00 / 39.00 CAN / £20.00 For over 40 years, Aerosmith delivered flat-out, four-on-the-floor blues-based rock unlike any band before. Referred to as "The Bad Boys from Boston," they combined memorable songwriting with a showmanship unlike any band on the planet. Forty-plus years later, the band holds a spot in the rarified air of American rock royalty as one of the greatest—and most mercurial—rock 'n' roll bands of all-time. This massive, illustrated celebration is the first of its kind to provide a front-row seat to the Boston Bad Boys' entire career: scrapping their way cross-country in the 1970s, scrapping their way back to the top of the heap in the late 1980s, and scrapping with each other the entire way. Music journalist Richard Bienstock's lively history of the band's rise, fall, and rebirth is illustrated with nearly 400 photographs and collectibles, including gig posters, backstage passes, ticket stubs, 7-inch picture sleeves, and vintage T-shirts. Aerosmith also includes an extensive discography and assessments of each of the band's studio albums, written by such distinguished rock scribes as Daniel Bukszpan, Neil Daniels, Chuck Eddy, Bill Holdship, Greg Kot, Martin Popoff, Bud Scoppa, Phil Sutcliffe, and Jaan Uhelszki. The result is a visually stunning portrait of the band many have called America's best. About the Author: Richard Bienstock is a senior editor with Guitar World magazine and the executive editor of Guitar Aficionado magazine. He is also a musician and journalist whose writings have appeared in numerous U.S. and international publications, including The Village Voice and Classic Rock magazine. He currently lives in New York City. Publisher: www.voyageurpress.com.   LION MUSIC ARTIST NEWS: Lion Music are pleased to present the first video from new signing Boguslaw Balcerak's Crylord. The track Warriors Moon is taken from the bands debut album Blood Of The Prophets features the vocals of Carsten 'Lizard' Schulz (Evidence One, ex Domain) and offers a taste of the epic powerful metal heard on the upcoming album that sees worldwide release on 14th October 2011. YouTube Link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmTgSU6kU1k. Led by the prestigious talents of guitarist Boguslaw Balcerak, "Blood Of The Prophets" breathes new life into the neo-classical genre with 12 first class songs chock full of big riffs, dynamic rhythms, jaw dropping guitar solos and infectious vocal melodies from 3 of the most acclaimed vocalist in the field - the aforementioned Carsten Lizard Schulz and neo-classical legends Mark Boals (ex Malmsteen / Ring Of Fire) and Goran Edman (ex Malmsteen / Brazen Abbot). Full album information: www.lionmusic.com/cd/bloodoftheprophets.htm. MP3 Album sampler at: soundcloud.com/lionmusicrecordlabel/boguslaw-balceraks-crylord. Progressive metal outfit Seventh Wonder are set to mark a new highpoint in the bands career on 30th September 2011 with their prestigious headline appearance for the opening night of Europe's leading progressive / power metal festival ProgPower Europe 2011. This headline appearance is another highlight of what is turning out to be a magnificent 2011 for the band with the ongoing critical and commercial success of their fourth albumThe Great Escape (released December 2010) and the success of the promotional video for Alley Cat taken from the current album rapidly approaching 200,000 views on YouTube (www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sRDa-xTfwg). After a long search 2011 has also seen the band confirm Stefan Norgren (ex Lion's Share) as their new drummer, and also seen vocalist Tommy Karevik perform guest vocals for Kamelot on the European leg of their 2011 world tour. The 80 minute headline set at ProgPower 2011 see Seventh Wonder set to offer up some special surprises and serves as a thank you to the bands fanbase for their ongoing support since the bands formation. Lion Music: www.lionmusic.com. STAMPEDE GIVE AWAY FREE DOWNLOAD OF NEW STUDIO TRACK 'SHADOWS OF THE NIGHT': UK hard rockers Stampede are giving away a free download of newly recorded studio track 'Shadows of The Night' on Facebook: www.facebook.com/stampederock. Stampede have recently been in the studio recording a special remake of Shadows Of The Night, a track which was an old favourite and always a mainstay of their live set. The track is now available to download for free exclusively from the band's official Facebook page, and will be available for a limited time only. The band announce news of the free download just as they kick off a series of live dates with US rockers Y&T, in support of their new album 'A Sudden Impulse', released in May this year on Rock Candy Records. Although originally recorded live, both for a BBC In Concert session and at Reading Rock Festival in 1982 for the live Official Bootleg album, up until now Stampede had never recorded a studio version of the song. "We wanted to do something to say a big thank you to our fans and to all the people that have supported us this year with the release of our new album 'A Sudden Impulse'", states vocalist Reuben Archer. "Shadows of the Night has always been a real favourite of ours so we thought it would be great to do a studio version to give to our fans." Download 'Shadows of the Night' now for free here: www.facebook.com/stampederock. MELODIC BRIEFS: Jamie Allen has just written and recorded an acoustic version of "Against The Ceiling", and has made it available for free from his official website: www.jamieallenrocks.com/music.html. "Against The Ceiling" is dedicated to Jani Lane, his family, and all Jani and Warrant fans around the world. Metal Shrine Blog talked to Ted Poley recently. Topics include the 9/11 looking album cover, touring w/Kiss, earthquakes, the Greatest hits artwork, the 80´s scene in New Jersey and more: metalshrineblogg.blogspot.com/2011/09/intervju-med-ted-poley-i-danger-danger.html#links. Guitarist Chris Lyne (Soul Doctor) will appear at this year's Musikproduktiv Hausmesse in Ibbenbüren (near Münster/Osnabrück), Germany and host some guitar workshops for his endorser Randall on November 4, 5 and 6. More information about the event can be found here: www.musik-produktiv-messe.de / www.chrislyne.com. Italian Melodic Rockers Soul Seller are pushing the release of their debut album "Back To Life" with a video clip for the song "Wings Of Freedom" which you can watch here: youtu.be/vDMIVhcdgK8. SIN CITY SINNERS SETTLE LAWSUIT: Statement regarding Sin City Sinners lawsuit: "As some of you may have heard The Sin City Sinners previously had an issue with the Affliction Clothing Company, related to their Sin City Sinners line of clothing. You also may have heard that a lawsuit was filed regarding this matter. The Sin City Sinners are happy to announce that they were able to amicably resolve this matter with Affliction and that this past June the lawsuit was dismissed. The Sinners have established a positive relationship with Affliction Clothing, a worldwide leader in the rock-n-roll oriented clothing industry and are happy with the results. The Sinners look forward to what the future may hold in this respect and would like to thank Brian Dziminski and Mark Smith of the law firm of Dziminski & Associates here in Las Vegas for all the work they did to help make this happen. Based on all of this, the Sinners encourage their friends and fans to visit the Affliction website at www.AfflictionClothingStore.com and check out the Sin City Sinners line of T-Shirts and hooded sweatshirts. Thank you ~ SCS." Sin City Sinners, often referred to as Las Vegas' favorite band is a group of prominent musicians who perform self-penned originals and rock and roll covers. What began as a weekly 'just for fun' jam at a local dive bar, evolved into standing room only shows featuring appearances by some of rocks hottest musicians and celebrities. As the bands reputation grew so did the need for larger venues and the band has become one of Vegas' top headliners. Sin City Sinners have released two CDs of original music, Exile On Fremont Street and Broken Record. Both are available on iTunes. In 2011, the Sinners were voted "Best In Vegas" in the prestigious 2011 Las Vegas Review Journals Reader's Poll, and their music video 'Goin' To Vegas' received the 32nd Annual Telly Award. The band will also be releasing "A Sinners Christmas" CD in Nov featuring several appearances from noted special guests. For more visit: www.facebook.com/pages/Sin-City-Sinners/141717162529765. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with 4 new killer live shows. MRX Membership Details here. Today's uploads: - Kiss - Live Detroit 9-25-2009 - Triumph - Canada Jam (Mosport Park, Ontario, 26-8-78) - Mr. Mister - Live At The Ritz New York 23-02-1986 - Kansas - Live USA 2004

 

 

Thursday, September 29, 2011

MITCH MALLOY RELEASES NEW ALBUM "MITCH MALLOY II" OUT ON OCTOBER 1: Phil Collen, Hugh McDonald, Keith Scott, Pete Lesperance, Jeff Scott Soto, Bruno Ravel, Keith Howland, Brett Walker, and More to Appear Nashville, Tenn. (September 27, 2011) – Mitch Malloy will be releasing Mitch Malloy II, his highly anticipated follow-up album to the RCA Records melodic rock debut, Mitch Malloy, on October 1, 2011. "For years my core fans have asked me to give them another album full of Melodic Rock and I'm proud to say that Mitch Malloy II is just that. For me, this is my real 'second album' – the true follow-up to my major label debut – the record that I've wanted to make for a long time." Mitch's core fans have always appreciated and supported his vast spectrum of work and are especially curious about the time he was tapped to replace Sammy Hagar as the lead singer of Van Halen. But these days, Mitch is living the dream and creating the music he was born to make. In February, Mitch sequestered himself with the sole mission to take his major label debut to the next level. He reached out to his peers and the momentum began to mount. Collaborations and contributions have poured in from co-writers, acclaimed musicians and even top industry executives. Mitch teamed up with long-time friend and musical accomplice Victor Brodén to co-produce and the result is Mitch Malloy II, pure melodic rock at its best. A dream-team of musical guests appear on Mitch Malloy II including Phil Collen (Def Leppard) who also co-wrote the song he plays on, "As Long As I'm With You." Mitch brought on Keith Scott (Bryan Adams) to co-write "Love Song" and the renowned Randy Goodrum to co-write "Take It All," a classic rock power ballad. Other featured guitarists are Pete Lesperance (Harem Scarem) and Keith Howland (Chicago, Rick Springfield). And for a flash-back to the self-titled album, Hugh McDonald (Bon Jovi, Alice Cooper) appears on bass and C.J. Vanston plays keys and co-wrote on Mitch Malloy II. And for a vocal treat, Jeff Scott Soto (Journey, Trans-Siberian Orchestra), Bruno Ravel (Danger Danger) and Brett Walker offered their voices to the choir on "I'm The One." And as a special surprise to Mitch, his original band from high school, "Lightening," flew in for a birthday celebration and to join the chorus. Mitch will celebrate the launch of Mitch Malloy II during his highly anticipated return to Firefest in Nottingham, England on October 23, 2011. "I'm really looking forward to returning to Firefest and Nottingham…great event, amazing city and the fans who attend the festival are die-hard melodic rock fans. It's like a night in AOR paradise for me!" Advance praise has already begun for Mitch Malloy II. Here's what some of the biggest names in AOR/Melodic Rock are saying: "Man, what a voice! Power, pitch, feeling, tone…he's got it all. A great talent. Mitch's new CD is rockin'. He's never sounded better and the songs hook you the first time through." Sir Arthur Payson "Mitch is one of the finest voices I have heard… He has it all and is a really nice guy, too. Buy this and let's get this man the attention he deserves!" Steve Lukather "It's finally here, he's finally back…my bud and one of the finest singers/songwriters of our time, Mitch Malloy, ready to slay us with his eponymous 2nd album…of course it couldn't be released without some backing vox by yours truly, ha-ha, but I am so happy the world gets more of Mitch Malloy again, so go GET IT!" Jeff Scott Soto Mitch Malloy II is produced by Mitch Malloy and Victor Brodén and features 12 songs all written or co-penned by Malloy. The CD is available via the Website and Facebook or iTunes. A deluxe lyric booklet will also available for download November 1, 2011 featuring commemorative photos from his European shows this fall as well as many rare archival photos. Mitch Malloy, originally from Dickinson, North Dakota, left home after high school to pursue his musical dream in New York City. He was signed to RCA records where he released two records, Mitch Malloy and Ceilings and Walls, garnering three Top 20 hits. Mitch has continues to write songs, create his own music and perform every chance he gets. He also is an established producer and mix engineer. WebLinks: www.MitchMalloy.com / www.facebook/mitchmalloyfans.com / www.facebook.com/pages/Mitch-Malloy-Fans/367824767907.   xx MORE CLASSIX TO COME FROM AOR HEAVEN: The latest release in the AOR Heaven Classix series (all digitally remastered, limited to 1,000 copies and featuring liner notes by Dave Reynolds) is indeed one of the ultimate West Coast AOR classics of all time: Planet 3's "Music From The Planet"! Featuring the incredible line-up consisting of Jay Graydon, Clif Magness and Glen Ballard, the album still is one of the finest and most outstanding releases of the West Coast genre ever. Due next in late October is the much sought after second Urgent album "Thinking Out Loud", followed by the magnificent Roxus album "Night Street" (incl. the bonus track "Body Heat") due late November. All AOR Heaven Classix releases are available through www.aorheaven.com, Cargo Records in the UK and selected retailers.   xxxx SCORPIONS COMEBLACK AND HERMAN INTERVIEWED: Scorpions French Fan-Club Crazyscorps has conducted an interview with former Scorpions drummer Herman Rarebell, who has just released his autobiography entitled "And Speaking of Scorpions". The drummer talks about his book, his chaotic beginnings with the band, the Scorpions upcoming album Comeblack and about the state of the world and his regrets as an absent father. The interview (in 3 parts) can be consulted below: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfEuO-EtlFs / www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tVJP8YHwCA / www.youtube.com/watch?v=NUq6dPoNF4g. The book is available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/Speaking-Scorpions-Autobiography-Scorpions-Rarebell/dp/14.... And we have a little info on the Comeblack album, due for release November 4. I'm told the album consists of Scorpions classics newly recorded by today's line-up. Here is the artwork.   D-I-O-N SWAPS D.O.T.S FOR D-A-S-H-E-S: D-I-O-N Intelligent Design is an album featuring American vocalist Chandler Mogel (Outloud, Talon), British guitarist Dion Smith (formerly of Mercury Rain) and New York session drummer Charlie Zeleny (Blotted Science and Behold....The Arctopus). D-I-O-N was formed by Dion Smith in 2010 with a view of creating something completely different. Intelligent Design comprises of heavy driving guitar riffs, melodic yet powerful vocals with a focus on synth melodies and intricate drum patterns. The album was written and produced by Dion and has seen him writing his best songs to date. With the unique styles of Chandler and Charlie Z it has seen Dion's vision come to life in this debut album. Check out a visual album preview on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjvlH8-VQZE. The album is available via digital download on iTunes, CD Baby, Amazon and Napster and through their website, www.d-i-o-n.net. More news will be announced soon, such as the release of the physical CD, merchandise and live shows. Keep checking the website for updates! DANGER ZONE TEAM UP AGAIN WITH MUSIC GURU AND PRODUCER JODY GRAY: We are pleased to announce that Danger Zone historical artistic producer Jody Gray is again on board on the Danger Zone venture and he is currently busy co-producing and writing with band singer Giacomo Gigantelli new material for the upcoming CD, planned for a 2012 release. Jody Gray has been one of the pivotal members of "Line Of Fire" recording & producing team back in the eighties and he has worked with many major Asian artists, including Shonen Knife, E.Z.O., China and Loudness and has co-written several, multi-platinum hits in the Pacific Rim. His talents as a songwriter, composer, producer, musical director and arranger have served such disparate artists as the late Ray Charles, Grace Jones, Al Franken and Air America, Grammy winning, vocal group; New York Voices, New Orleans legend, Dr. John, Ute Lemper, David Chesky and Tony-Award winning vocalist Lillias White, Clifford the Big Red Dog, Bobbie Eakes and Women of the Calabash. Moving easily among genres, Gray has composed score and song for such feature films as Clifford's Really Big Movie (Warner Bros.), Arthur's Missing Pal (Lion's Gate), the documentary features, Death By Hanging: A Family's Pledge Of Allegiance (HBO) and the upcoming What's the Name of the Dame, as well as major Sports themes for CBS and Fox. All musical parts and lines of the album are being produced by Roberto Priori at his Pri Studio in Bologna, where renewed AOR artists such as Michele Luppi, Killing Touch, Wheels of Fire and Perfect View, just to name a few, have seen their recent album recorded and produced. Roberto (guitars, sound engineer and producer), is thrilled to work once again with long-time friend Jody while original band members Giacomo Gigantelli (vocals) and Paolo Palmieri (drums) together with new band member Roberto Galli (bass) are excited to enter the studio early next week to record the basic tracks for the 15 demos already worked out. Stay tuned for new exciting updates from the Danger Zone camp soon! Jody Gray's video interview: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnuJplkz4kY / www.dangerzoneweb.com. KILL DEVIL HILL SIGN TO SPV: Kill Devil Hill, the new project featuring acclaimed drummer Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Heaven and Hell, Dio) and bassist Rex Brown (Pantera, Down) have signed with SPV/Steamhammer. The band is rounded out by guitar slinger Mark Savon and killer vocalist Dew Bragg. Their debut album is tentatively scheduled for a March 2012 release. Vinny Appice commented on signing to SPV and what people can expect from Kill Devil Hill: "We are a new band with the power, energy and history to stand out, create music and be successful. We are proud to be with SPV, a label with the same attitude, talent and drive!" Bassist Rex Brown is equally excited about joining the SPV family: "It is with a great pleasure to be aboard the SPV Music Blanket. We are looking forward to a great new experience with a label that has put out many great metal records. Cheers!" The still untitled release is being produced by Warren Riker who is best known for his work with Down, Corrosion of Conformity, Sublime, and Cathedral. Olly Hahn (A&R Steamhammer/SPV) on signing Kill Devil Hill: "It`s a great pleasure to welcome Kill Devil Hill to the SPV family. It´s not only because of Rex Brown and Vinny Appice, mostly it`s because of their music and that they are a real band. Music wise they don`t neglect their past but they also give some fresh elements to our beloved music genre called Heavy Metal!" Kill Devil Hill is currently taking a short break from the studio for a short US club tour starting October 2 in Clifton, NJ. For more info please visit: www.killdevilhillmusic.com / www.spv.de. MELODIC BRIEFS: Damon Johnson says Brother Cane will be active in 2012. "I would like to make a new record." www.bravewords.com/news/167309. Grammy-award winning singer/songwriter Chris Cornell has partnered with Yahoo Music to release the music video for his new song "The Keeper." Cornell wrote and performed "The Keeper," the poignant original song for Relativity's feature film Machine Gun Preacher (directed by Marc Forster). Artist Direct said of the song, "Cornell manages to channel Bob Dylan and Robert Plant all at once in one of the best songs of his own catalog." After performing the song on The Late Show with David Letterman and making an appearance on PBS' Tavis Smiley, don't miss him performing "The Keeper" on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on October 12th. Released earlier this month, the Machine Gun Preacher Soundtrack is available for purchase through iTunes and Amazon. new.music.yahoo.com/videos/premieres/ Sixty Miles Ahead, a brand new rock band from Milan, are actually working on their first EP. Recordings take place at Reclab Studios near Milan, engineered by Matteo Bolzoni e Larsen Premoli. The EP "Blank Slates" consists of 5 songs of straight modern rock and will be presented in November. Emiliano Sicilia is the Singer/Guitarist of Regardless Of Me: after releasing his solo Album ("Devotion Materialize" – Audioglobe 2006) and after releasing Two Albums with Regardless Of Me ("The World Within" – Locomotive Records 2009, "Pleasures And Fear" – Unexploded Records Sweden 2011), he's started a New Metal project, The Psychoanalyst. The sound of this New Band is more Metal, between Meshuggah, Vildhjarta and Periphery. This is the Line Up: Emiliano Sicilia – Vocals Growls, Guitars; Enrico Cassano – Clean Vocals, Bass Guitar; Dr.Skudge – Drums, Keyboards, Programming. The band is recording a new EP, stay tuned on their facebook profile to know everything about the band: www.facebook.com/thepsychoanalyst1. PAT MCMANUS RADIO INTERVIEW / FORMER SEE RED FRONTMAN WORKING ON NEW PROJECT WITH JOE MATERA: Former See Red vocalist / lead guitarist Rich Davenport is pleased to announce that his radio show this Thursday night (29 September) will feature an exclusive hour-long interview special with former Mama's Boys guitarist Pat McManus (now fronting the Pat McManus Band), which covers the band's career and features Pat's choice of songs from the their albums, along with more recent material from Pat's solo releases. The interview will go out on Thursday, 29 September, 7-8pm UK time, and you can listen online at www.salfordcityradio.org/shows.php?id=577. Says Rich, "Mamas Boys are fondly remembered by rock fans around the world, and with Pat having made a very welcome return to the music scene in the last few years, I was very keen to get him on the show! He's playing guitar better than ever and is still writing great songs!" You can also check out Pat's website at www.patmcmanus.co.uk. Rich's Rock Show goes out every week (Thursday nights 7-8pm UK Time) on Salford City Radio, playing a mix of classic Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, AOR, Southern Rock, and lost gems from the NWOBHM era, along with new music from established and up and coming artists. You can tune in online at and all shows are available for three weeks after the first broadcast on the "Listen Again" feature at the same link above. Rich also has more interview specials lined up over the coming months, including Graham Bonnet, Kings X and Southern Rockers The Outlaws. Rich is also working on a new melodic hard rock project with acclaimed Australian guitarist Joe Matera. Joe and Rich initially got in touch to arrange a radio interview, and on finding that they shared similar musical influences (including Thin Lizzy, Cheap Trick, AC/DC and UFO) and a love of twin guitar harmonies, they've started collaborating on songs for a new project which they hope to release in 2012. MORE UNTITLED NEWS FROM DOOGIE WHITE: Scottish vocalist Doogie White came to the attention of a worldwide audience when Ritchie Blackmore, asked him to be the lead singer in his reformed Rainbow They recorded one album "Stranger In Us All." Doogie would go on to sing with Swedish neo-classical guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen for over a 6 and a half year period, record 2 albums and tour the World. Doogie has also recorded 4 albums and toured with Cornerstone and is current lead singer with TANK, who embark on selected European dates starting in August. Doogie White is releasing his first solo album through Metal Mind Records in October. The album called As Yet Untitled, is a collection of 10 dramatic and hard hitting rock songs co- written by White and some good friends he has made over his years in rock music. White says, "I always thought my first solo album should be called this. The journalists at Sounds and Kerrang always had a line that so and so are in the studio recording an album, as yet untitled… Well now I have actually done that. I always like to be part of a band but I found myself isolated for a short while and decided to record some of the songs that I had been working on, while either on the road or back at home. I won't sit around and wait for the phone to ring. A bored Doogie is a dangerous thing! I gathered the good and the great, companions who had travelled the world with me at various times. Friends who I knew were outstanding players and to a man and one beautiful woman they gave freely of their talents and time. I am forever in their debt." The album was recorded in various studios in Florida, Germany, Scotland but most of the production was done in Sweden with Pontus Norgren (Hammerfall) at the helm. "Pontus and I became great friends through our time with Yngwie. He shone a bright light on the songs with his production. He brought a certain calmness to the madness and made sure that everything that was in the song had to be there for a reason. Even when the hard drive with the initial mixes was stolen, I knew that Pontus could sort it out. I wanted to reflect the music that is closest to my heart but also throw some caution to the wind and take a few chances. But you can't step too far out of the box and why would I want to? Heavy rock music is in my makeup, always has been and always will be." "The opening song "Come Taste the Band" was written when Ritchie asked to hear something freshly recorded before I auditioned for Rainbow. It was written and recorded in a day with Alex Dickson in the style of MK4 Deep Purple.(The one Ritchie was not in). I borrowed the title of their album, I wanted to see what he would say. He thought it a very good song, but that I was a cheeky Scotsman for doing such a thing. On the album Tony Carey plays the intro and keys and Patti Russo sings the second lead vocal. The Glenn part if you will!" "Secret Jesus" is a curve ball and was written just after my time with Ritchie and it deliberately had no guitar solo. However on the album, Phil Hilborne throws in a stunning one in a place where I did not think it possible." "Paul Logue and I wrote "Living on the Cheap in Style" I had been reading about David Niven and Errol Flynn living it up in 1940's Havanna and thought that's kinda the illusion of what a rock n roll lifestyle is like. You're flying all over the world staying in the best hotels, limos, sold out shows…sure some of that may be true but when you come home you still have to put out the recycling, walk the dog and tend the garden. Now that my friend is Rawk N Roll!" "Time Machine" was again written by Paul Logue and myself. I was having my Dr Who moment. If you could go back what would you change? I try not to have dirt on the back of my shoes or dwell on the past, but I guess we all have moments when we think "What if?" Bridges get burned some get rebuilt and some just get carried by the river to the sea and float away never to be seen again. But if you could relive that moment, that secret special moment, just for one day, how magical it might be?" "Times Like These" was the last song written for the album and started my journey down the road with Mick Tucker and Tank. I'm glad that the album "As Yet Untitled" is getting released. I held onto it as I was very busy with writing the Tank album "War Machine" amongst other commitments. There was no point in competing with myself. The time is right, right now and next year, I'll get a bunch of hairy and not so hairy rawkers and take this on the road and we will have fun and come home and be told to put the trash out!"   INTRODUCING GRIFTER: Captain Zen Beyond has called them "the best classic rock band around" and the album "brilliant without any weak points." The Obelisk says they "sound like fans of 70's rock creating their own riffs and grooves to universal appeal." Classic Rock Magazine has seen their brand of irreverent rock to be fitting enough for one of their cover-mounted compilation CD's. Grifter has taken the world by storm with their new self-titled album of gritty, blues-based biker rock and you need to know what the fuss is all about! Available now through the Ripple Music Store and available world-wide on October 3rthrough Clearspot International in Europe and Code 7 Distribution in the UK, Grifter is the album that will fuel every high-octane weekend party and chase away the doldrums of everyday life! This eleven track album is the band's first full-length effort with indie rock label Ripple Music, however, Grifter's unique one-foot-in-the-gutter, sleaze rock sound first appeared on the Ripple roster with their dual contribution to the Heavy Ripples, Vol. 1 compilation released earlier this year. To fill out 2011, Grifter will be performing numerous shows throughout England, as well as preparing for a tour of UK and parts of Europe for 2012. Confirmed live dates: Sept 29th - The Rosr, Hounslow, London with Desert Storm, XII Boar and Strung Heavy Sept 30th - The Purple Turtle, Camden, London with My Sleeping Karma and Steak. (London album launch) October 7th - The Junction Underground, Plymouth with Stump Grinder and Guns Under The Table. (home town album launch) December 2nd - The Unicorn, Camden, London with Doctor Cyclops, Stubb and one more TBA Also available at CDBaby, Amazon.com, Ebay, and AllThatIsHeavy.com.

 

 

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

AOR ISSUE 4 OUT TODAY: Possibly the mightiest and chock-filled issue of AOR yet, this month's issue is packed to gills with the fruitiest and most epic melodic rock bands of all stripe. The cover story this month centres around Bon Jovi and their landmark 1986 Slippery When Wet opus. Featuring previously unpublished pictures from the album sleeve session by official band photographer Mark Weiss including token buxom bikini ladies, we investigate the making of Slippery When Wet, Bon Jovi's make-or-break third album which subsequently catapulted them into superstardom. The action continues apace via a moustachioed exclusive interview with Franke Previte of Franke & The Knockouts on the enduring legacy of his band not to mention his Oscar-winning movie theme songwriting. We of course pay our respect to recently and sadly deceased songwriter and frontman Jani Lane with an in-depth look at his life in and around Warrant. A retrospective on folk-rock croonsters America and their dominance of the early 70s singles charts is followed up by a look at Canadian rock heroes, Coney Hatch. We also speak with Diane Warren, Bai Bang, House Of Lords, Lionville, Steve Newman and Toby Hitchcock and investigate how the enduring AOR power ballad is finding a whole new audience in the UK. An AOR field trip UK's leading AOR gathering, Firefest ramps up the excitement and it's all polished off with all the latest new album reviews plus reports of Toto, Mötley Crüe and Chicago on the road. This month's accompanying disc of 15 carefully-chosen AOR tracks, titled Get Your Wings featuring FM, Issa, White Widdow, Seb Bach, Riverdogs and more. All this and much more, AOR issue 4 is on sale from September 28. Purchase Internationally via: bit.ly/AOR4magazine_BonJovi.   THIS MONTH'S YOUTUBE VIDEO PROMO FROM FRONTIERS RECORDS: This month's YouTube video promo from Frontiers Records is out now and can be viewed below:   AN ECLECTIC COLLECTION OF MAJOR ARTISTS PAY HOMAGE TO ZZ TOP ON NEW ALBUM OUT OCTOBER 11: The music and legacy of ZZ TOP - "That Little ol' Band from Texas," that has been part of the world's musical landscape for over 40 years - will be celebrated with the October 11 release of A Tribute From Friends. The album, to be released by Show Dog-Universal Music, features 11 classic ZZ Top songs interpreted by top-flight artists working in a broad range of musical genres. All of the album's tracks have been newly recorded, specifically for the project. These include Filter's performance of "Gimme All Your Lovin'," Grace Potter & The Nocturnals' take on "Tush," as well as Wyclef Jean's "Rough Boy," "Legs" from Nickelback and Wolfmother's interpretation of "Cheap Sunglasses." The album kicks off with "Sharp Dressed Man," from The M.O.B., Mick Fleetwood's ad hoc group that includes fellow Fleetwood Mac founder John McVie as well as Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and guitar great Jonny Lang. Fleetwood commented, "We're delighted to honor ZZ Top this way. Their legacy, like that of the original Fleetwood Mac, is steeped in the blues we all love so much. I know that Steven and Jonny feel as strongly about their legacy as John and I do." After Billy F Gibbons, Dusty Hill and Frank Beard, the original--and continuing-- members of ZZ Top were informed that A Tribute From Friends was in the offing, they issued the following statement: "When we were told there was going to be a ZZ Top tribute album a while ago and logically asked, 'Who are we paying tribute to?' Then we found out that a bunch of great artists were paying tribute to us and we were in disbelief. For the past forty or so years, all we've done is get out there and crank it and try to have a good time while doing so. To a great extent, we've succeeded since we're still having a good time so that would be reward enough for 'the same three guys playing the same three chords.' Now comes A Tribute From Friends and we're so delighted that our music resonates with these great musicians whom we so admire." A Tribute From Friends also includes "Waitin' for the Bus/Jesus Just Left Chicago" by Daughtry, "Got Me Under Pressure" from Duff McKagan's Loaded and Mastodon's version of "Just Got Paid." Coheed & Cambria contributed the anthemic "Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers" while country superstar Jamey Johnson's track is the seminal "La Grange." Of their invitation to be a part of the album, lead singer Chris Daughtry said, "We were completely honored! A classic great band with amazing songs? We're in!" And of ZZ Top's music, "It's classic! Simple chord progressions, great riffs with hooky choruses...very inspiring to a band like us." The co-executive producer of A Tribute From Friends is Carl Stubner, ZZ Top's manager, who noted, "A Tribute From Friends underscores the legacy of ZZ Top in the most musical way possible and illustrates just how important Billy, Dusty and Frank have been to successive generations. It was a privilege to work with the pantheon of brilliant artists who contributed their efforts and so much love to this project." Since Billy, Dusty and Frank founded ZZ Top on the last day of 1969, the band has been responsible for the worldwide sale of over 50 million records highlighted by many of the very same songs heard on A Tribute From Friends as well many others including "Sharp Dressed Man," "Pearl Necklace," "I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide," "Tube Snake Boogie" and a score of smash hit albums that include the RIAA Diamond Award winning (10 million sold) Eliminator as well as gold and platinum winners Afterburner, Fandango!, Deguello, Recycler, Antenna, El Loco, Tejas, Tres Hombres plus compilation sets. Their hit repertoire, iconic and award-winning videos and massive touring schedule has made them a favorite with audiences throughout the world and beyond – they previewed a track from their forthcoming album aboard the Soyuz space vehicle. They are recipients of the Texas Cultural Trust's 2011 Texas Medal of the Art and had previously been named "Official Texas Heroes" by the state's House of Representatives. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones in 2004 who cited the band's remarkable consistency and longevity and, first and foremost, the fact that ZZ Top is "steeped in the blues," calling them "the heartbeat of the whole country and the heartbeat of rock 'n' roll." A Tribute From Friends - Track Listing: 1. "Sharp Dressed Man" – The M.O.B. (Mick Fleetwood, Steven Tyler, Jonny Lang & John McVie) 2. "Gimme All Your Lovin'" – Filter 3. "Tush" – Grace Potter & The Nocturnals 4. "Legs" - Nickelback 5. "Cheap Sunglasses" – Wolfmother 6. "Got Me Under Pressure" – Duff McKagan's Loaded 7. "Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers" – Coheed & Cambria 8. "Just Got Paid" – Mastodon 9. "Rough Boy" – Wyclef Jean 10. "Waitin' for the Bus / Jesus Just Left Chicago" – Daughtry 11. "La Grange" – Jamey Johnson.   KINGS OF THE SUN FRONTMAN JEFF HOAD CONVICTED ON DRUG CHARGES: From: www.news.com.au: "THE rock-and roll lifestyle of the former frontman of a 1980s "big-hair and leather" Australian rock band almost saw him go to jail today for large-scale drug production and possession. Kings of the Sun lead singer Jeffrey "Jeff'' Graham Hoad was before the Brisbane Supreme Court for growing and possessing more than 6kg of marijuana at his Gold Coast home just before Christmas in 2009. Lawyers for Hoad said the "old rocker's'' heady days of "southern fried boogie'' and heavy metal had passed him by and he had been left -- at the age 50 -- in a position where he had been forced but struggling to "rejoin the adult world''. Hoad's former band, which had an Australian Top 20 single with their debut single Bottom of My Heart/Bad Love in 1986, lost their chance at international fame and fortune during a controversial incident supporting US rockers Guns and Roses in 1988. The band was famously kicked off stage during a support gig with Guns and Roses at the Sydney Entertainment Centre when Hoad dropped his pants and made disparaging remarks about the then popular international heavy metal stars. Prosecutor Stacey Coker today said Hoad was found in possession of numerous marijuana plants being grown by way of a sophisticated hydroponic system inside rooms of his Gold Coast home. Ms Coker said police, during a raid of Hoad's house on December 23, also found a bucket in the kitchen containing almost 1kg of dried cannabis. Solicitor Bill Potts, for Hoad, said his client had long lived the drug-fuelled rock-and-roll lifestyle, which ended when fashion and music tastes changed and left him without an audience, a band or a future. Mr Potts, quoting Jethro Tull frontman Ian Anderson, told the court: "(Hoad was) too old to rock and roll, but too young to die. At the age of 50 ... (Hoad has been forced to) rejoin the adult world.'' Hoad, who was 48 at the time of his arrest, today pleaded guilty to one count each of producing and possessing marijuana, possessing equipment, such as scales, clip-sealed bags and hydroponic equipment, used in connection with drugs and stealing electricity. Ms Coker said Hoad had arranged to have electricity supplied to his house other than via his Energex metered source, in a bid to avoid detection by police regarding his drug production operation. Justice Jean Dalton sentenced Hoad to a wholly suspended 12-month prison term. NOISECREEP ANNOUNCES BUCKCHERRY OPENING FOR GUNS N' ROSES: The word came out last week that Guns N' Roses would be touring the US starting next month. We can now announce that Buckcherry will be joining Guns N' Roses as direct support on the trek for the following dates: 10/28 - Orlando – Amway Center 10/29 – Miami – American Airlines Arena 10/31 – Greenville - Bi–Lo Center 11/2 – Atlanta – Philips Arena 11/4 – Houston – Toyota Center Buckcherry's most recent album, 2010's 'All Night Long,' was produced by the band and featured hit singles 'It's a Party' and the infectious title track, plus 'Our World,' a song that aided people effected by the BP oil spill. "I can't think of a cooler way to wrap up the 'All Night Long' tour, a Buckcherry/Guns N' Roses tour has been a long time coming," said guitarist Keith Nelson. Earlier this year Buckcherry joined Shaq and Betty White in donating their voices, time and talents to share the facts about the child abuse epidemic in a fun but thought-provoking PSA for Child Help: www.childhelp.org/pages/hope. NewsLink: www.noisecreep.com/2011/09/27/buckcherry-to-join-guns-n-roses-on-upcoming-tour/ FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE FROM LINE OF FIRE: In conjunction with ARfm, American Melodic Rockers Line Of Fire and Tribunal Records are launching a special offer in honor of its most loyal UK fanbase. Beginning now, Line Of Fire's 2nd album 'Momentum' is being offered internationally for $13.99 with Free Global Shipping Direct From The Band!! That's right, regardless of where you live in this great, big world, you can get 'Momentum' directly from Line Of Fire and Tribunal Records with FREE SHIPPING! Says the band: "To make a very long, convoluted story as short as possible, we had some missteps and mishappenings with our distributor, which were completely out of Tribunal's control, at the time of original release. As an unfortunate result our album was by and large not available at all to our non-American brothers and sisters. We only found this out, as did Tribunal Records, way after the fact. You can read the full story here, if you'd like: www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/industry/record-labels/how-three-indie-labels-took-over-a-failing-1005358962.story So, we took matters into our own hands, went to the label, and they more than graciously agreed to offer FREE GLOBAL SHIPPING outside of the USA! Many thanks to ARfm, Steve Price, Paul Nicholls, and all of our global fans who have shown us love and support these many years! We apologize to all the international fans who contacted us not being able to get the album through their normal channels. This one's for you, we hope it helps!" 'Momentum' was released in Aug2010 received a 90/100 from Andrew McNeice @ MelodicRock.com as well as glowing reviews from Fireworks magazine and HardRockHaven.net, and SleazeRoxx.com. You can view the "Making Of Momentum" documentary here: vimeo.com/13801476. To order your copy of 'Momentum' with free global shipping, go here: tribunalrecords.bigcartel.com/product/line-of-fire-momentum-arfm-special-deal.   GUITAR WORLD.COM HOSTING FULL ALBUM STREAM: Today sees the release of the highly anticipated new studio album from legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Steve Hackett. Entitled Beyond the Shrouded Horizon, the album is a deeply profound and mystical, yet heartfelt and spellbinding, progressive rock record which will seduce the listener. It marks another step on the enthralling journey we are taking with Hackett as he makes sense of his life through music. The album strikes a joyous note while remaining a fascinating and deeply personal affair. As Hackett says: "For all you restless souls out there, tighten your seatbelts and join me at full throttle on a ride from the shores of Loch Lomond to the Rings of Saturn." Coinciding with the release of "Beyond the Shrouded Horizon", GuitarWorld.com, the only home of Guitar World Magazine is hosting an exclusive stream of the first disc of the album. Listen to the album at: www.guitarworld.com/exclusive-steve-hackett-streaming-new-album-beyond-shrouded-horizon. Beyond the Shrouded Horizon Track Listing 1. Loch Lomond 2. The Phoenix Flown 3. Wanderlust 4. Til These Eyes 5. Prairie Angel 6. A Place Called Freedom 7. Between The Sunset And The Coconut Palms 8. Waking To Life 9. Two Faces Of Cairo 10. Looking For Fantasy 11. Summer's Breath 12. Catwalk 13. Turn This Island Earth Bonus CD 1. Four Winds: North 2. Four Winds: South 3. Four Winds: East 4. Four Winds: West 5. Pieds En L'Air 6. She Said Maybe 7. Enter The Night 8. Eruption: Tommy 9. Reconditioned Nightmare. For more information please check: www.hackettsongs.com / www.myspace.com/stevehackett / www.insideoutmusic.com.   BYRON NEMETH TO PAY TRIBUTE TO JIMI HENDRIX DURING LA AMP SHOW: (27 September 2011 - Los Angeles, CA) Scottsdale, AZ based guitar hero, Byron Nemeth, plans to commemorate Jimi Hendrix's burial date of Oct. 1 1970 during his appearance at LA Amp Show Oct. 1 and 2. Nemeth will be heading to the roof of the Airtel Plaza Hotel at approximately 4:20 pm to play The Star Spangled Banner as performed by Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock and to light a guitar on fire in Hendrix memory. "Honoring Hendrix by replicating his very controversial rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner on electric guitar is the most important political rock statement that needs to be done today to wake people up to new music," says Nemeth. "This delivery of screaming guitar and ballistic feedback will shock and inspire listeners to a new vision of what modern rock should be instead of the watered down corporate drivel we have been forced feed in recent years." Byron will be representing Moore Amps and the company's new model Mooresound 1013 Amp Class A 20 Watt Single Channel All Tube Amplifier throughout the weekend. Relevant links: www.byronnemeth.com / www.mooresound.com / www.airtelplaza.com / www.ampshow.com.

 

 

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

CHICKENFOOT PRESENTS "III" LIVE WEBCAST + Q&A • ALBUM RELEASE DAY TOMORROW: A nice round up of activities from today's Chickenfoot Newsletter: "Hello people of the Foot! We hope you all have your calendars marked for tomorrow's release of the new Chickenfoot album "III" and the FREE LIVE WEBCAST that will be broadcast online to all corners of the 'net! Tune in to chickenfoot.us to watch the special concert, which will be followed by a very special Q&A session with the band. We'll be taking questions during the webcast, as well as via email to questions@chickenfoot.us. Again, to watch, just point your web browser to at chickenfoot.us at 6pm Pacific time on Tuesday. We will be broadcasting live from Bob Weir's cutting edge TRI Studios in Marin, CA and for the best experience we recommend you check out TRI Studios' handy user guide before showtime. There is also still time to pre-order your copy of "III" at the iTunes store at itunes.com/chickenfoot and be among the first to receive it! Road Test Shows Announced - The following limited road test shows will be happening in the first week of November. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for pre-sale information in the next week! November 1 - San Francisco, CA November 2 - Los Angeles, CA November 4 - St. Louis, MO November 5 - Chicago, IL November 8 - New York, NY Have you been watching the Chickenfoot III Podcast series? What about the EPK? Chad Smith's "handing of the sticks" to Kenny Aronoff? No? Well check them all here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=qK9QFQl1TpY&fs=1&autoplay=1&hd=1."   KELLY HANSEN SAYS 'I'M JUST A SINGER IN A ROCK & ROLL BAND': Press Release / "Actually, the front man of classic rock band Foreigner is so much more than that. But when you hear those amazing vocals and see him rock an audience into a frenzy with his stage and musical performance - You know for sure Kelly Hansen is that singer in a rock & roll band who's just loving his music and living his dream. "I learned long ago that I don't have to sing every note I know to impress people - It's all about the song, it's not about you," says Hansen. Speaking with Hansen, now on a successful Journey-Foreigner-Night Ranger tour performing to sold-out arenas across the country, it's easy to see the passion and serious commitment to Foreigner in this intelligent and talented front man. "I get compared a lot to Lou Gramm; it comes with the territory," Hansen comments. "I made a connection with Mick, who is such a vast talent of accomplishment and high standards, and great to work with. I can do my best with someone like that - because I know he's not going to accept second best." Kelly Hansen & Foreigner Talk About Acoustique: On the Music: "I've never been told how to sing the Foreigner songs. My philosophy is that when doing a song live I like to do it the way I learned it on the radio. When something is so well written with such a great melody - why change it? The reality -- that is my preference. I'm not trying to impress people. A lot of people in their teens or early 20s have parents turn them on to Foreigner music. Then, once they start listening they see that there's a lot of great, deep music." On working with Mick: "It's an incredible experience working with such a talented individual. I haven't often had this experience on stage...but when I look next to me - No matter what, I know he's been there and knows what to do. He comes from same school and gives it full out - performing great music." On the Career: "It's a magical thing. It's something very precious that I have. I started singing at 17 when a friend who carried around his guitar asked me to sing with him on the beach. I was attracted more to the grittier stuff, and I loved R&B and pop. Toward the end of the metal era I landed with Hurricane, and we made great music. Grunge came in and then I took time to expand my skills as producer, as song writer, and even just sitting it out for a while. But frankly metal wasn't my thing - Foreigner in fact is the kind of band I would have been in if not for Hurricane." Just a Singer in a Rock & Roll Band: "Being "just a singer" in an iconic band like Foreigner. Well, it's kind of like coming home for me. It feels right. It's a good fit. And I'm having a blast - a little like a sports team, when every night you get beat up a little. But then when you win the game, well, it's amazing."   7TH HEAVEN ASK YOU TO SING: New from 7th heaven - the single Sing, from the brand new album Pop Media:   INTERVIEW BRIEFS: A new interview has been posted today on national news site Examiner.com with Saxon's Biff Byford, with his thoughts on the band's new album and tour, the Big 4, Metallica, and Elton John! www.examiner.com/music-q-a-in-national/q-a-with-biff-byford-of-saxon-on-call-to-arms. Steve Cirvello did an interview on his radio show back in April with Ratt drummer Bobby Blotzer to promote his book. It runs about 24 minutes: hear here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMLyQGsRbRM. The latest episode in the webisode series Lesson Alley, features bassist David Ellefson of Megadeth. The episode can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rcEKpILgvrM&feature=autoshare. Megadeth filmed a video on Saturday (September 17) in Santa Clarita, California for the band's the new single, "Public Enemy No. 1". The clip was shot on a movie set where old Westerns are filmed. Bassist David Ellefson states, "We have never shot a video like this before; there's actually animals in the movie and that's all we can say." "Public Enemy No. 1" was released last week digitally via iTunes. The song comes off Megadeath's new album, "Th1rt3en", which is scheduled for release on November 1 via Roadrunner Records. "Th1rt3en" marks the recorded return of bassist David Ellefson who was part of the band's classic lineup from 1983 to 2002. In a move that delighted the band's legion of diehards, Ellefson returned to performing live with Megadeth in early 2010 and has remained a fixture on the stage ever since. This is the first time Ellefson has played on a Megadeth record since 2002's "Rude Awakening". INXS ANNOUNCE IRISH SINGER/SONGWRITER CIARAN GRIBBIN AS NEW VOCALIST: From: www.stuff.co.nz / Inxs has unveiled Irish singer/songwriter Ciaran Gribbin as its new frontman. Gribbin, from Belfast, has worked with artists including Paul McCartney, Madonna and Snow Patrol. The band recently unveiled a demo recording with Gribbin entitled Tiny Summer, co-written by Andrew Farriss and Gribbin. Farriss said he "felt magic" again when writing Tiny Summer with Gribbin. "I'm currently writing more songs for INXS with Gribbin, and we as a band hope to share more new music with you all as soon as possible," Farriss said in a statement. "It's all so amazing and sometimes overwhelming, especially when I look up and see that my writing partner is one of the greatest songwriters of our time," Gribbin said. Previous frontman JD Fortune, who won his place in the band in 2005 through US TV talent show Rock Star: INXS, was let go by the band in 2009. He was one of a number of artists to perform with the band since charismatic frontman Michael Hutchence died in 1997. INXS will record new material with Gribbin for a new studio album. The band will hit the road for shows this November and December in South America and Europe and also play in Perth on December 3. REVIEWS REVIEWS REVIEWS: Massive Reviews update today. Please take some time to read through them all and make required notes! Also consider paying extra attention to the smaller reviews - smaller only due to time constraints, but some very worthy releases worth investigating there also. Reviews added for: House Of Lords, White Widdow, Sebastian Bach, Xorigin, Foreigner, John Parr, Bulletboys, Elevener, Uriah Heep, David Mark Pearce, Tesla, 7th Heaven, Notorious, Shinedown, FireHouse, Kingdom Come, Lechery, Ilium, Hell In The Club, Anthony, Xoch, The Cars, DDrive, Nazareth, Logan, Jan Holberg, Lady Macbeth, Smilek, Skill In Veins, Overdrive, China, Amaze Me, LA Guns, Dust And Bones and Sargeant Steel. And still more to come! Check out the new Reviews.

 

 

Monday, September 26, 2011

ROYAL HUNT TO SHOW FANS HOW TO LIVE: Royal Hunt's new album (estimated release - Dec 2011, Frontiers Records) has been titled Show Me How to Live and will contain these following tracks: One More Day – Another Man Down – An Empty Shell ll – Half Past Loneliness – Hard Rain's Coming – Show Me How to Live – Angels Gone. The band described new material as "highly melodic with rich, lush arrangements and stellar production" which should please fans of neoclassical yet progressive music. Featuring DC Cooper on vocals.   J.R. BLACKMORE & FRIENDS 'VOICES': J.R. Blackmore & Friends Voices (Release 21.10.2011) Distribution: Hart Musik Voices / Victorious Artist: Markus Engelstädter (u.a. flash queen coverband, musicals) - Destructive Mania Artist: Cathrine Jauer (First Child, Cat) Devil In Disguise / Guardian Angel Artist: Oliver Hartmann (Avantasia, Hartmann, At Vance) - Jeckyll & Hyde / We Are Rock`N`Roll Artist: Dave Esser (OpusDavi, Schattenspieler) - Nanshu Artist: Ela (Ela Rocks, EBC Roxx) - Incomplete / Beethoven Artist: Michael Bormann (Jaded Heart, MB). Musicans / J.R. Blackmore Guitar (Iron Angel, J.R.Blackmore Group, EBC Roxx, Over The Rainbow), Paul Morris Keyboard (Nena, Doro, Ritchie Blackmore`s Rainbow, Over The Rainbow), Danny Miranda Bass (Queen, Meat Loaf), Charlie Zeleny Drums. Album Samples, click here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdQPbXNS92E.   ANTHRAX SINGER JOEY BELLADONNA TO APPEAR ON CAFFEINE BOMB THIS WEEK: Anthrax singer Joey Belladonna will appear on this week's edition of Caffeine Bomb. Make sure you tune in at 7:00 p.m. EST on Monday, September 26th, to 91.7 FM WHUS in Eastern Connecticut, or stream live at WHUS.org. Caffeine Bomb is hosted by Roger Lotring, an author and freelance music journalist whose work has appeared in the pages of Metal Hammer, Metal Edge, Classic Rock, Revolver, Shock Wave, Zero and Burn magazines, and at ESPN.com and CMJ.com. Roger is the co-author of "Full Metal Jackie Certified: The 50 Most Influential Heavy Metal Songs of the '80s and the True Stories Behind Their Lyrics". He is also the author of various CD liner notes, including the Motley Crue box set, "Music to Crash Your Car To, Volume 2." 91.7 WHUS is a commercial-free college and community-based radio station broadcasting from the University of Connecticut. For more information, visit Facebook or WHUS.org. THE PAUL SAMSON BACK CATALOGUE 1984-2002 AVAILABLE ON ITUNES: The Paul Samson back Catalogue 1984-2002 will be available on iTunes and other download sites on Monday 26th September 2011. Titles: Joint Forces, Thank You And Goodnight, Empire Live At The Marquee, 1988, Refugee, Nineteen Ninety-Three, Burning Emotion, Past, Present And Future, Test Of Time, There And Back, Live in London 2000, The Blues Nights (unfortunately less 4 tracks due to licensing issues), Live At Mildenhall 1982 3 track EP, The Early Singles (1st 3 singles A&B sides), The Two Lightning singles with Clive Burr, and the Lazer single with Thunderstick, Before The Storm (US and Canada only) plus bonus tracks, as per the 2001 CD release. WebLinks: www.paulsamson.co.uk / www.facebook.com/paulsamsonarchive. DRUMMER BOBBY JARZOMBEK POSTS ARCH/MATHEOS DRUM CAM STUDIO FOOTAGE: September 25, 2011 - Drummer Bobby Jarzombek (Fates Warning, Riot, Sebastian Bach, Halford) has posted additional Arch/Matheos drum cam studio footage, recorded at Carriage House Studios in Stamford, CT, on his YouTube channel. 'Any Given Day' and 'On The Fence' off the group's newly released 'Sympathetic Resonance' album can be viewed at this location: www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOoWNzPpO9A. Arch/Matheos recently completely shooting a promotional video for the song 'Midnight Serenade' with director David Brodsky of MyGoodEye (Devin Townsend, Helmet, In This Moment) in New Haven, CT. 'Sympathetic Resonance' debuted at #13 on the Billboard New Artist Chart and at #36 on the Billboard Hard Music Chart and has also hit the international charts at #27 in Germany, #67 in Austria, and #78 in Switzerland. Arch/Matheos which features original Fates Warning vocalist John Arch along with current Fates members Jim Matheos on guitar, Joey Vera on bass, Bobby Jarzombek on drums, and Frank Aresti on additional lead guitar, have been confirmed for the 15th edition of Germany's Keep It True festival, set to take place April 27-28, 2012 at Tauberfrankenhalle in Lauda-Kunigshofen. The group's setlist will include early Fates Warning material performed live for the first time in Europe with Arch on vocals. Bobby Jarzombek online: www.bobbyjarzombek.com / www.youtube.com/bobbyjarzombektv. ALICE COOPER DRUMMER GLEN SOBEL POSTS YOUTUBE FOOTAGE: Alice Cooper drummer Glen Sobel (Sixx A.M., Vivian Campbell, Paul Gilbert) has posted drum footage of three classic Cooper tracks, 'Billion Dollar Babies', 'Muscle of Love', and 'Halo of Flies', on his YouTube channel. 'Billion Dollar Babies': www.youtube.com/watch?v=UduEpJqcxxw 'Muscle Of Love': www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWX8GYnTsU4 'Drum Solo - Halo Of Flies': www.youtube.com/watch?v=svQvYwMG_L0 The clips were recorded during Alice Cooper's U.S. summer leg of the 'No More Mr. Nice Guy' tour as well as the band's recent intimate show at the world famous Whisky A Go-Go in Hollywood, CA. Cooper's live band includes Sobel, long-time bassist Chuck Garric (L.A. Guns, Dio), and the three-pronged guitar assault of Steve Hunter (David Lee Roth, Meat Loaf), Tommy Henriksen (Warlock, P.O.L.), and Orianthi (Michael Jackson). Currently under way in Australia, the 'No More Mr. Nice Guy' tour is slated to run through mid December 2011. For exact tour dates visit: alicecooper.com/tour-terror.

 

 

Friday, September 23, 2011

MelodicRock Records is extremely excited to announce a new partnership with Alliance Entertainment for full and exclusive distribution of all MelodicRock Records titles in the United States. Alliance Entertainment is the largest single source of home entertainment products in the USA, with accurate, timely order fulfillment from a major centralized distribution center. The center totals over 400,000 square feet and contain state-of-the-art material handling automation. In total, Alliance Entertainment's services over 15,000 storefronts and shipped over five million individual consumer orders through its Consumer Direct Fulfillment business.   This agreement with Alliance will allow MRR titles to be available to all CD retailers; specialist online outlets and mail-order companies across the USA. For the first time, American rock fans will be able to request MelodicRock Records titles at retail stores and have the store order them in, or keep them as part of their regular inventory. I encourage all fans that have a favourite outlet to request MRR titles for their stores and help spread the word about this new distribution deal. Several promotions will be put in place over the coming months to lift awareness of all MRR titles. To date, MelodicRock Records has released 10 titles. They are: MRR001 - Jimi Jamison & Jim Peterik - Extra Moments MRR002 - Fenrik Lane - 317 MRR003 - All I Know - Vanity Kills MRR004 - Degreed - Life, Love, Loss MRR005 - Violet Sun - Loneliness In Supremacy MRR006 - Infinity - Infinity MRR007 - Andreas Novak - Novakation MRR009 - Taxxi - Traxx MRR010 - Riverdogs - World Gone Mad MRR011 - Chris Antblad - Century Retail Stores, online specialists and other CD sellers are encouraged to contact Alliance Entertainment to place orders for any MRR titles – old or new. MelodicRock Records will release these titles via Alliance Entertainment on October 11. Any retailers interested in carrying Melodic Rock titles who are not currently accounts of Alliance Entertainment, please contact Mark Groshong at +1 954 255 4000, extension 1082, or by email at mark.groshong@aent.com. Coming up next will be: MRR008 – Working Class Dogs - A Tribute to Rick Springfield (November) WebLinks: www.melodicrockrecords.com. At the same time MelodicRock Records is just as excited to finally announce local Australian distribution for all of the above listed releases via Rocket Distribution. Local Australian stores and specialist outlets will be able to order MRR titles by contacting Rocket at: www.rocket.com.au.   FIRST VIDEO SINGLE FROM THE JIMI JAMISON/BOBBY KIMBALL ALBUM:   Taken from the album Kimball / Jamison out on Frontiers Records. Release date: Europe: October 14 2011 - North America: October 18. LATEST TITLES AVAILABLE FROM ROCK CANDY RECORDS: Four new Rock Candy titles - available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price of £10.99 each for the next two weeks ending on 9th October. Vandenberg 'S/T CANDY105 / Recorded in England at Jimmy Page's studio, located on the banks of the River Thames, and produced by Stuart Epps, this album boasts a fine selection of melodic hard rock, with the emphasis on consummate songwriting, exceptional arrangements, exemplary vocals (from Bert Heerink) and, of course, Adrian's blistering guitar work. The beauty of this album lies in the quality of the material. Tracks such as 'Your Love Is In Vain' and 'Wait' sparkle with an electricity that sets the band apart. Of course it's the power Ballard 'Burning Heart' that takes all the honours, a track that reached the top 30 of the Billboard Hot 100. With cover artwork designed by Adrian himself, the album, originally released in 1982, is a peach of a record that still cuts right to the chase nearly thirty years later. No wonder David Coverdale invited Adrian to join what would become the most successful version of Whitesnake producing their mega successful '1987' album. This is the newly remastered Rock Candy Edition features a 12 page full colour booklet, previously unseen photos, new interview with Adrian and a 3,500 word essay about the making of the record. Track List: 1. Your Love Is In Vain 2. Back On My Feet 3. Wait 4. Burning Heart 5. Ready For You 6. Too Late 7. Nothing To Lose 8. Lost In A City 9. Out In The Streets. Electric Angels 'S/T' CANDY114 / The Electric Angels were, at the time, just another name in the glam rock ring albeit with an intriguing past, having evolved from seminal glam act Candy, an act that sold zilch but turned every hip-head in Los Angeles. Signed to Atlantic Records and based in New York City, they set about crafting an album, originally released in 1990, produced by none other than Tony Visconti, a master mover and shaker who had previously guided the music of David Bowie and Marc Bolan. In an effort to soak up the original English glam rock vibe the album was recorded in London and remains a testament to their killer vision; a healthy dose of free-form Mott The Hoople diving head-long into the beer soaked energy of prime time Faces. It was a coup d'etat of the finest order, giving birth to one of the most impressive glam rock albums of the era. This is the newly remastered Rock Candy Edition features a 16 page full colour booklet, previously unseen photos, new interviews with the band and a 3,500 word essay about the making of the record. Track List: 1. I Believe 2. Live In The City 3. Rattlesnake Kisses 4. Head Above Water 5. Dangerous Drug 6. True Love And Other Fairy Tales 7. Last Girl On Earth 8. Home Sweet Homicide 9. Cars Crash 10. All The Money 11. Whiplash 12. The Drinking Song.   xx Buck Dharma 'Flat Out' CANDY101 / Chief amongst the Blue Oyster Cult's quota of superiority was songwriter, vocalist and guitarist Buck Dharma, the man responsible for writing their most popular track, the seminal '(Don't Fear) The Reaper'. With time on his hands between B.O.C. albums, Buck set about recording his, so far, only solo album, the sagely titled 'Flat Out'. Typical of Dharma's quirky sense of place, the songs and musicianship take no single direction, the contents spewing out like a multitude of strangely compatible styles. Aided and abetted by a number of grade-A musicians, including members of B.O.C., Foghat and Alice Cooper's original band, 'Flat Out', originally issued in 1982, confounded those who heard it first time around but has since gone on to attain, er, cult appeal to rival the best work of the mothership, with its seasoned vibe that only gets better with both age and familiarity. Truly one of the most revealing and fascinating records to have emerged from the hallowed halls of that mysterious enigma known as the B.O.C. This is the newly remastered Rock Candy Edition features a 16 page full colour booklet, previously unseen photos, new interview with Buck and a 3,500 word essay about the making of the record. Track List: 1. Born To Rock 2. That Summer Night 3. Cold Wind 4. Your Loving Heart 5. Five Thirty-Five 6. Wind Weather And Storm 7. All Tied Up 8. Anwar's Theme 9. Come Softly To Me. Angel City 'Face To Face' CANDY111 / An AC/DC connection was crucial to the Angel's story, in more ways than just musical. It was Bon Scott and Malcolm Young who recommended the band to their record label, Albert Productions, who signed them in 1975. Developing a musical swagger built on the riff hungry shuffle of AC/DC's finest moments, the band soon carved out a following that sent their domestic releases skyrocketing up the charts. Signing worldwide to Epic Records in 1980, the band's first foray into the great wide open was 'Face To Face', a compilation of the best tracks lifted from two domestic releases. Sure, the music is brittle and deeply indebted to AC/DC's uncompromising raucous boogie but the twist in the tale is the band's lyrical component. Front man Doc Neeson's hypnotic story telling formed the backbone of a style that caught the imagination and propelled them to success on stages from London to Los Angeles. 'Face To Face' remains one of the greatest and most enduring albums of the era. This is the newly remastered Rock Candy Edition featuring a 16 page full colour booklet, previously unseen photos, new interview with the band set in a 3,500 word essay about the making of the record. Track List: 1. Take A Long Line 2. Marseilles 3. After The Rain 4. Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again? 5. Shadow Boxer 6. Comin' Down 7. Out Of The Blue 8. Can't Shake It 9. Waiting For The World 10. No Exit.   xx FOREIGNER'S MICK JONES TO RETURN TO TOUR SOON: Foreigner have been touring across America, in the package deal with Night Ranger and Journey. But sadly, guitarist Mick Jones has missed a number of dates through illness. While the exact nature of his illness has not been disclosed, I did get an update from management today: "Thank you for enquiring about Mick's health. He is recovering well and we expect him to be back with us soon." That's great news for fans and the band - I will keep in touch with the band to confirm Mick's return. GUNS N ROSES TO JOIN 2012 TOUR CIRCUIT: Van Halen on tour in 2012 was going to keep train-wreck watchers busy, now there's also Guns N Roses to watch too. It promises to be an interesting year ahead. GNR tour info via Rolling Stone: www.rollingstone.com/music/news/guns-n-roses-announce-more-cities-for-u-s-tour-20110921. THE SWEET SOUNDS ROCKFEST: The Sweet Sounds Rockfest is set for Saturday October 15 at Club 21 Rocks in St. Louis Missouri. At Press time bands confirmed are: Strikeforce, Lynch, Matt and The City Limits, Drivin Rain, The Air On Everest, Tom Fuller Band, Counterfeit Diary, Salvage, 13 A-Cross and Magic Man. The Sweet Sounds Rockfest will be coming to another city next year! Bands interested in playing and potential sponsors please contact - www.sweetsounds.us. Click on poster for full-size version.   GUITARIST DAMON JOHNSON TO PLAY WITH AEROSMITH FRONTMAN STEVEN TYLER: Sep 23, 2011 - Birmingham, AL – Guitarist Damon Johnson (www.damonjohnson.com) will be playing guitar and sharing stage with Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler, Jeff Beck on lead guitar, Randy Jackson on bass, Tal Wilkenfeld on bass and Marti Frederikson on drums for iHeartRadio in Las Vegas, Saturday, September 24. Tune in to hear a special guest bass player on the first song. iHeartRadio (www.iheartradio.com/vegas/artists.html) is the biggest live music event in radio history. The artist line-up includes Steven Tyler, Kenny Chesney, Lady GaGa, The Black Eyed Peas, Jennifer Lopez, Bruno Mars, Rascal Flatts, Usher, Kelly Clarkson, and many others. Johnson is best known as vocalist and guitarist in Brother Cane, guitar player for Thin Lizzy and Alice Cooper. Johnson has also been the vocalist and guitar player in Slave To The System (featuring Queensryche drummer, Scott Rockenfield), and a member of country rock vocal group, Whiskey Falls. The Lowry Agency is a full service artist management/development and promotions agency. Primarily they work with musicians, actors, speakers, voice over artists, entertainment companies, music coordination/supervision for film and TV as well as MMA promotions. The Lowry Agency helps clients to meet and exceed their business goals. More information about The Lowry Agency can be found at www.thelowryagency.com. VUE CINEMAS TO SCREEN BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION'S DEBUT CONCERT FILM: For one night only, on Tuesday November 1st at 7:30pm, participating Vue Cinemas will screen Black Country Communion's debut concert film Live Over Europe in high definition and Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound. Black Country Communion is the Anglo-American rock group featuring the talents of bassist/vocalist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Trapeze), blues rock guitarist/vocalist Joe Bonamassa, drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin), and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater). "Live Over Europe" was filmed using 14 HD cameras during BCC's first ever world tour in the summer of 2011. Recorded across three nights in Hamburg, Munich and Berlin, the band's set includes 18 songs taken from both of BCC's albums; 2010's eponymous debut, and 2011's follow-up album release "2". This one-night-only rock and roll cinema experience includes an exclusive filmed introduction from all four members of Black Country Communion, read the full press release here. By pre–booking tickets via www.myvue.com/bcc, fans who attend each of the 16 participating cinemas, will be automatically entered into a prize draw to win a guitar signed by the band. MRX UPDATE: MRX has been updated once again, the following new features have been added: - Metallica - And Justice For All Demos (13 Tracks) - LA Guns - Hollywood Rehearsal 1997 (12 Tracks) - Ratt - Demos & Rare Recordings (15 Tracks) - Motley Crue - 1999 Aug 14 Devore, CA (14 Tracks) MRX Membership Details. REVIEWS PENDING: One of the biggest Reviews updates of 2011 will be added to the site early next week. Over 35 reviews - full, in-brief and mini... New CD Showcases to be added also and an audio preview of the long awaited Rick Springfield Tribute Album.

 

 

Thursday, September 22, 2011

A RHYME AND A REASON FOR CHRIS OUSEY'S SOLO DEBUT: Escape Music are pleased to announce the long awaited solo debut for Heartland/The Distance/Virginia Wolf vocalist Chris Ousey. The album Rhyme & Reason will be released across Europe November 11. Track List: 1- Mother of Invention, 2- Motivation, 3- To Break a Heart, 4- Bleeding heart, 5- A Chemical high, 6- Give me Shelter, 7- The Reason Why, 8- Any Other day, 9- Don't Wanna Dance, 10- Watch this space, 11- By any Other name, 12- A Natural Law. All songs are written by Chris Ousey and Tommy Denander. Produced and Mixed by: Mike Slamer. Co-Produced by: Tommy Denander and Mastered by: Christoph Stickel at MSM-Studios Germany. The Band: Chris Ousey – Vocals; Mike Slamer – Guitars and Keyboards (City Boy/Streets/Seventh Key/Steelhouse Lane); Tommy Denander – Guitar and keyboards (Radioactive/Robin Beck/Spin Gallery); Neil Murray – Bass (Whitesnake/Gary Moore) and Gregg Bisonette – Drums (Dave Lee Roth/Ringo Starr); Backing vocals: Billy Trudel and Kristoffer Lagerström. 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). Most will associate Chris with the band "Heartland" which 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. Since then Chris has notched up 10 releases with Heartland, and recently "Best of (ESM221) is a great reminder of the work he has done over the years. Nicknamed by the press as "The Man with the Golden Tonsils" Chris has always been loved by the rock audience, simply because of his amazing voice and his uncanny vocal range. So, for the first time we have a solo album from the man himself, and are we all in for a treat. Produced by none other than the famous Mike Slamer, "Rhyme and Reason" is a superb slice of melodic hard rock that will have you singing every chorus after the first spin. Songs Like "Mother of Invention" (available as a Digital download on 5th October) and "The Reason Why" are two great examples of songs from the album, but there is not one single weak track here. Chris has a knack of writing great lyrics and with Tommy Denander writing the music then it is a match made in heaven….and just wait till you hear the collaboration of two great guitarists Mike Slamer and Tommy Denander and the combination is just pure magical!! Rhyme and Reason is a great album and highlights just how Chris has matured over the last two decades. LabelLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   QUEEN CIRCUS OR QUEEN EXTRAVAGANZA?: Time to talk about this Queen Extravaganza. What do you think folks? The idea has been around for roughly four years, with the idea of the band using various well-known and established names to fill the vocalist and bassist roles, with drummer Roger Taylor and guitarist Brian May joining them on a full-scale tour. Given the right personnel, that could work. But it seems the idea has now degenerated into simply a reality online/TV idea, eventually churning out a "tribute band", with unknown names performing the classic Queen tracks after being chosen by Taylor and May. It seems much of the band's Facebook followers don't like the idea - and nor do I. This is precisely what Kiss have hinted at over the years - a band without any original members. But Queen beating them to the idea seems nothing short of sacrilegious. I see a Queen Circus, not an Extravaganza. You can already view some auditions via: www.youtube.com/user/QueenExtravaganza. There is one outstanding one posted, but as you can see, there are also a few tragic ones posted, proving that the formula being used here is nothing different than the freak-show audition process shows like Idol and X-Factor offer up. The audition process will be online until such time as "the highly anticipated Live Final", held in Los Angeles, where finalists will be judged by the official Queen Extravaganza panel, fronted by Roger Taylor. The 10 final contestants, and possible 'wild-cards', will perform LIVE as part of the band in front of Roger and the panel. Here's the official press release - Imagine performing 'Bohemian Rhapsody' in front of members of Queen or belting out 'We Are The Champions' in front of a packed-out venue… it could just happen. This is the real life, not just fantasy. The names Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon are synonymous with rock 'n' roll. And now you too could add your name to that list… As part of this year's celebration of Queen's 40th anniversary, Queen drummer/songwriter/singer Roger Taylor is launching an American talent search that will offer "s**t hot vocalists and musicians" the opportunity to star in the Queen Extravaganza Live Tour. Auditions begin September 19th here at www.queenextravaganza.com and the tour, booked by powerhouse agency CAA, launches in 2012. "The Queen Extravaganza will not be a traditional tribute show," says Taylor. "It's a brand-new show specially designed to enable fans to celebrate the music of Queen in a heart-stopping event." The Queen Extravaganza will bring the glorious music and live experience of Queen to a new generation of fans in cities across America in 2012. "It's going to be spectacular" says Taylor. "It's going to be very visual, there are going to be some shocks and some tremendous surprises. It will be a rock celebration in the royal tradition." Beginning September 19th, Taylor will launch an American talent search via this site, www.queenextravaganza.com, to find players for a 5-piece band and three vocalists who will carry the tour. Taylor is fully hands-on in the creation of The Extravaganza, taking the role of producer and music director. Coming on board to ensure the touring show will match the design and excitement of Queen at its best will be such rock tour heavyweights as stage designer Mark Fisher (U2, AC/DC, Muse, The Rolling Stones, Cirque de Soleil) and lighting designer Rob Sinclair (Adele, Vampire Weekend, Goldfrapp, Peter Gabriel), and for the auditions, Roger Taylor and a panel of renowned musicians. The audition process involves two video audition rounds to be judged by both a panel of appointed judges and the public. Taylor will be present to judge the final audition round, which will be held live in Los Angeles in early December. In addition, VEVO, the world's leading music video and entertainment platform, will unveil exclusive content from each audition round as well as The Queen Extravaganza finals. Auditions are open to vocalists, guitarists, drummers, bass players and keyboard players. Taylor, a man whose drum skills and songwriting talents have contributed to over 300 million record sales and over 700 live concerts in every part of the world, says: "There are great musicians everywhere, and this is a really exciting challenge for us to try and unearth some of those musicians from the US." And from The Guardian Newspaper UK - "Roger Taylor has announced plans for an official Queen tribute band. The group's drummer is recruiting "great-looking guys" for Queen Extravaganza, a touring retrospective that will combine archive footage, celebrity cameos, and faithful renditions of the band's best-known songs. "Let's face it," Taylor told Rolling Stone magazine, "we're getting a little long in the tooth, but there are an awful lot of tribute bands, some of them good, some of them not good." Inspired by a poster he saw in Norfolk, Taylor hopes to start a "never ending" Queen tribute tour, keeping the band's music alive with performances by young lookalikes. "I'm quite convinced that there are tens of thousands of kids, of really talented people, in their bedrooms around the world playing drums, guitar, and singing," he said. "And I want to find some of those people." Until recently, Queen didn't need an official tribute act – they were still touring themselves. But although Taylor and guitarist Brian May played together as recently as last week, the days of load-ins and soundchecks are probably behind them. "We can still do it, but I don't really think I want to travel around the world doing it any more," Taylor said. Their team-up with Paul Rodgers, who stood in for Freddie Mercury, was always conceived as "a temporary thing". "I think that phase is finished now," Taylor said, though they may reunite for "something special" such as the London Olympics. For now, auditioning for Queen Extravaganza is your best bet for getting close to Taylor or May. Prospective Bohemian Rhapsodists can upload their auditions to queenextravaganza.com. While the surviving members of Queen will not be part of the regular touring show, Taylor wants to "leave places [for cameos]" if they are "starting a run somewhere exciting". Otherwise the gigs will be a mixture of early black-and-white film, iconic concert moments, and the hired gang of impersonators. "We want young people because we're no longer young," Taylor said. "It's a long time down the road." NewsLink: www.guardian.co.uk/music/2011/sep/20/queen-official-tribute-band / www.queenextravaganza.com.   NEW MEATLOAF ALBUM AVAILABLE IN AUSTRALIA 4 MONTHS BEFORE THE REST OF THE WORLD: Music comes no bigger than Meat Loaf. After 40 years and selling over 100 million records, among them one of the biggest albums of all time, Meat Loaf has been a larger than life presence in music with his unique songs and stellar collaborations. Bat Out of Hell is still the number one selling international album in Australia with over 1.6 million copies sold and awarded Platinum status 23 times. And now, Meat Loaf does it all again with the release of his new album Hell In A Handbasket, to be released in Australia on September 30, ahead of his national Australian tour that kicks off on the 4th of October in Wollongong. Like most Meat Loaf albums, Hell In A Handbasket is a BIG album with every song delivering a message that alludes to the theme of the album. Meat Loaf describes it as "the most personal record I've ever made. It's about how I feel the world's gone to hell in a handbasket. It's really the first record that I've ever put out about how I feel about life and how I feel about what's going on at the moment." Produced by Paul Crook, Hell In A Handbasket once again features some interesting collaborations and special guests. Public Enemy's Chuck D contributes an original rap mixed into a cover of Tom Cochrane's 'Mad Mad World'. Entitled 'The Good God's a Woman And She Don't Like Ugly', it's every bit as interesting as the titles alludes to. Lil Jon, another well-known rap artist who appeared in Celebrity Apprentice alongside Meat Loaf, appears on 'Stand In the Storm.' Certainly, no album would be complete without long time duet partner Patti Russo who features on two songs: 'Our Love And Our Souls' and a version of The Mammas and The Pappas classic 'California Dreamin'.' Track Listing: All Of Me, Fall From Grace, The Giving Tree, Mad Mad World / Good God Is A Woman And She Don't Like Ugly feat. Chuck D, Party Of One, Live Or Die, California Dreamin' feat. Patti Russo, Another Day, 40 Days, Our Love & Our Souls feat. Patti Russo, Stand In the Storm feat. Lil Jon, Blue Sky.   BONFIRE'S FIREWORKS…STILL ALIVE: After the release of their anniversary album "Branded" which early this year has charted in Germany, Bavaria's finest rockers Bonfire are surprising their fans now with a second birthday party and a special present. The anniversary concerts in Sweden, the Czech Republic, Romania, Switzerland, Bremen (Germany) but also the "Rock The Nation" festival at Loreley, where BONFIRE shared the stage with legends such as Foreigner, Night Ranger and Kansas, "Fireworks - Still Alive" have been recorded. Released in 1987, the studio album "Fireworks" in Germany so far has sold more than 250.000 copies and was rewarded with a Golden Record. The band with the permanent line-up consisting of Claus Lessmann (Vocals, Guitar), Hans Ziller (Guitar), Chris "Yps" Limburg (Guitar), Uwe Köhler (Bass) and Dominik Hülshorst (Drums) has performed all tracks from the "Fireworks" album at the aforementioned shows – with an up-to-date sound. This new CD offers a couple of bonus tracks including the song "I'm On My Way" – a touching tribute on the late Steve Lee, singer of Gotthard, and live recordings of the hits "You Make Me Feel", "Sword And Stone", "Just Follow The Rainbow" plus the previously only as digital single released edited version of "Let It Grow" from their current CD "Branded". The release of the "Fireworks – Still Alive" record will be celebrated at this year's Masters Of Rockantenne festival in Augsburg, Germany on October 8 and the album will be officially released on October 7. Track list: 01 Ready For Action, 02 Never Mind, 03 Sleeping All Alone, 04 Don't Get Me Wrong, 05 Give It A Try, 06 Fantasy, 07 American Nights, 08 Obsessive Intro, 09 Sweet Obsession, 10 Rock Me Now, 11 Champion, 12 You Make Me Feel, 13 Sword And Stone, 14 Just Follow The Rainbow, 15 I'm On My Way, 16 Let It Grow. WebLink: www.bonfire.de.   xx THE POODLES ON THE ROAD IN EUROPE: The Poodles European tour dates: 2011-10-24 Ballroom, Osnabrück - DE 2011-10-25 Lorsch, Musiktheater - DE 2011-10-28 Kerkrade, The Rock Temple - NL 2011-10-29 Oberhausen, Helvete - DE 2011-10-30 Ludwigsburg, Club 2 - DE 2011-10-31 Ingolstadt, Paradox - DE 2011-11-02 Augsburg, Spectrum - DE 2011-11-04 Bilbao - ES 2011-11-05 Barcelona - ES 2011-11-06 Madrid - ES 2011-11-08 Uster, Rock City - CH 2011-11-09 Weekender, Innsbruck - AUT 2011-11-10 Club 202, Budapest - HUN 2011-11-11 Lichtenfels - DE 2011-11-13 Köln, Underground - DE RAT PAK RECORDS SET TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM FROM SINGER RONNY MUNROE: New York, NY - September 20, 2011 - Classic power metal is still alive and well! Ronny Munroe's (voice of Metal Church) new CD Lords Of The Edge is hands down his finest work to date. Featuring the guitar mastery of Stu Marshall (Empires of Eden), Chris Caffery (TSO/Savatage), and Michael Wilton (Queensryche), Lords Of The Edge is a true metal offering that delivers an onslaught of fist-pumping, guitar-driven heavy metal. Lords Of The Edge gives us 12 new solid tracks of melodic metal that can only be described as one of those rare albums that captures the magic of the classic metal era. "We wanted to create something that was totally new, but at the same time, true metal fans could hear everything that we were influenced by growing up in the classic metal era," says Ronny on the recording of the new CD. "Lords Of The Edge sounds a little bit like what would happen if you put Metal Church's Light in the Dark CD into a blender with Queensryche's first EP and Judas Priest's Painkiller, then mixed it with some present day themes and a shot of pure adrenaline." The opening tracks, "Just Breathe" and "Full Circle" offer fast and furious guitar assaults with high energy vocals, while tracks like "The Vision" and "Touched By A Demon" take on a more haunting melodic approach that set up the listener for the gritty, power-metal influenced tracks like "Let Them Feed" and "Rock And A Hard Place." With 12 strong tracks on this CD, it is a fantastic offering that deserves to be in every metal fan's music collection! Watch the video trailer for "Lords of the Edge" here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACB_TcKXZbc. Track listing: 1) Just Breathe 2) Full Circle 3) Pierced By The Maiden 4) The Vision 5) The Fear Of What's To Come 6) Let Them Feed 7) Rock And A Hard Place 8) Blood Red Skies 9) Lords Of The Edge 10) Touched By A Demon 11) Still Alive 12) Goodbye To The Black. *Mixed and mastered at Frontier Studios - Sydney Australia. For pre-order info and FREE download please visit: www.ratpakrecords.com/ronnymunroe. Official release date: Tuesday, October 18, 2011. MELODIC BRIEFS: The legendary hard rockers Sinner have just secured position #65 in Germany´s official album chart. Congratulations! But unfortunately the Sinner/Voodoo Circle tour has to be postponed. Check out an exclusive stream of Reborn In Sleaze: A Tribute To Dave Lepard, which is to be released on October 1 on Street Symphonies Records, on www.atomicstuff.com. To stream the 11 tracks sample, just click the pink beating heart at the top of the home page. You can pre-order "Reborn In Sleaze: A Tribute To Dave Lepard" on www.streetsymphonies.com. MetalSymphony.com has uploaded photos of TNT's 17 September, 2011 concert at Sala Heineken in Madrid. The band will release a DVD concert from this show. Check them out at this location: www.metalsymphony.com/galeria/thumbnails.php?album=342. The group's setlist was as follows: Hello Hello, Substitute, Ship in the Night, Refugee, U.S.A., Barracuda, Harley Davidson, Guitar solo, My Religion, Tonight I'm Falling, 10.000 Lovers (In One) ------ Engine, Everyone´s a Star, Intuition, Seven Seas. Mike Froedge (Black Label Society, DoubleDrive, SpeedX) announces the release of Classy, the debut album from his band, The Dreaded Marco, on Saturday October 1, 2011 at The Peachtree Tavern, Atlanta, GA. The album was recorded at Froedge's own recording studio, Open Sky Studio in Atlanta. The signature sound of Classy boasts guitar rhythms and riffs that threaten to define a new genre of rock, one that encompasses soulful vocals, dynamic performances and Froedge's unmistakable hard hitting style: Dirty Rock n Roll. LIVE FROM DARYL'S HOUSE MAKES BROADCAST TV DEBUT THIS SATURDAY NIGHT: New York, Sept. 21, 2011—Born on the Internet four years ago as a "light bulb moment" for Daryl Hall, Live from Daryl's House, the Webby and MTV O Music award-winning webcast, will make its broadcast premiere nationally with two back-to-back half-hour episodes featuring Train and Fitz & the Tantrums, on Saturday, Sept. 24. The show will be syndicated nationally by Good Cop Bad Cop Productions in association with Scott Sternberg Productions and distributor Trifecta Entertainment & Media. Executive producers for the show include Hall and Scott Sternberg along with Daryl Hall manager Jonathan Wolfson. Live from Daryl's House marks the first full-length music web show to successfully cross over into the television syndication marketplace. LFDH has been a hit monthly live-performance web series since 2007, featuring Daryl Hall jamming (and cooking and drinking) with friends, musicians and guest artists. The 30-minute broadcast version is a performance reality series which takes place in the intimate setting in Daryl Hall's home. "This is a dream come true for me," said Daryl. "When I first had the idea for this series four years ago, I was hoping to reach a wide audience, and this is just another step in that plan. We're all raring to go." "It's been a delight and a reward for me to work with the legendary Daryl Hall, who has truly reinvented himself in the digital age," said Sternberg, CEO of Scott Sternberg Productions. "Other than the regular late-night shows, there isn't a weekly performance series currently on the air where the top bands, artists and musicians can perform their songs and reach audiences nationwide. We look forward to helping fill that void, and we thank all of our station partners who are on board for the premiere." "I am amazed at the metamorphosis of the show. From being able to go from a small flip cam operation to an 8 camera, High Definition production that has marquis talent jam in Daryl's living room is incredible. We've been able to establish this series on the web thanks to the fans, and now to cross mediums, represents a tremendous opportunity," added Wolfson. "We couldn't ask for better partners in doing so than Scott Sternberg and Trifecta Entertainment & Media." Added Tribune Programming President Sean Compton: "Live from Daryl's House is the perfect blend of new and classic acts bringing music programming back to broadcast television. Tribune's stations provide a great environment for LFDH on weekends." Live from Daryl's House has been cleared in nearly 80% of U.S. homes in the nation's top 200 media markets, as well as all of the top 10, including New York (WPIX), L.A. (KTLA), Chicago (WGN), Dallas (KDAF) and Houston (KIAH). The show has also cleared in such key markets as Philadelphia (CBS-owned KYW), Boston (KBIN) and Atlanta (WATL), and is set to premiere on a number of NBC, Fox and CBS-owned affiliates across the country. Most stations will air a full hour with two original shows back to back on Saturday nights. "My time at Daryl's House was incredible," said Train lead singer Pat Monahan about the experience. "Daryl's bandmates were super-seasoned pros and Daryl was gracious and right on with what I hoped such a legend would be like. Thanks all!" "To get to play with one of my biggest influences and idols was a dream come true," raves Fitz's Michael "Fitz" Fitzpatrick. "Daryl and the guys put it down and we all left it on the floor! We went pretty deep into the Daryl Hall catalog to sing the first song Daryl ever recorded. It was a day we will never forget!" Live from Daryl's House made its broadcast debut on WGN America last year to impressive ratings, which spurred interest in syndication. The past four years have marked a steady stream of superlatives and recognition for Live from Daryl's House, with Hall receiving a Webby Award for Best Variety series at the 14th annual ceremony at N.Y.'s Cipriani Wall Street before garnering an O Music Award from MTV earlier this year. The shows have been edited into two 30-minute-long episodes which, in most cases, will air back-to-back.

 

 

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

VAN HALEN - COLUMBIA RUMORS FIRM UP - AND EUROPE IN MAY/JUNE: A couple of small Van Halen updates for you today. First., the following article from The Hollywood Reporter (link): "After 35 years at Warner Bros., the band has reportedly left for Sony. An insider tells THR that Columbia A&R executive Stephen Ferrera has been tasked with overseeing a new Van Halen album, its first with David Lee Roth since 1984. The rumor mill is abuzz with talk of a new Van Halen album -- their first with original singer David Lee Roth since he left the band in 1985, the band's first since 1998's Van Halen III and the first to be released on a label other than Warner Bros. Records, where they spent the better part of 35 years. Several reports cite that Sony-owned Columbia Records will be Van Halen's new label home, with new music due out in 2012. Indeed, a source tells The Hollywood Reporter, "Nothing has been signed yet, but Columbia has been in the lead for some time," adding that A&R executive Stephen Ferrera has been tasked with overseeing the album. Ferrera came to Columbia in June after spending three years at EVP of A&R at Island Def Jam, where he worked with such acts as Bon Jovi and Ne-Yo. Before that, he held a senior A&R role at RCA, where he worked with the likes of Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. Producer-songwriter John Shanks (Michelle Branch, Melissa Etheridge) tweeted early this year that he was in the studio with the band and THR hears Ross Hogarth (Sick Puppies, John Mellencamp) recently finished mixing the album. Van Halen's current line-up includes Roth, guitarist Eddie Van Halen, his son and bassist Wolfgang Van Halen and drummer Alex Van Halen. A Columbia Records rep could not be reached for comment." I can add the following information. Tour dates for USA continue to be booked, starting in February 2012. The tour could be split into two legs, to allow the band to take in some festival and select solo dates in Europe over the northern summer. A trusted source in Europe tells me that there are 3 German shows being looked at (Stuttgart, Dortmund and Berlin) around the week of June 13. I've heard from two sources now that Download UK want Van Halen to headline one of the nights there - the event runs June 6-11, 2012 and lastly, expect the band to figure in Sweden Rock Festival calculations - that festival runs June 6-9. A Paris date is also rumoured for late May. TRILLIUM "ALLOY" – THE NEW METALLIC STATEMENT FROM AMANDA SOMERVILLE: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Alloy, the anticipated debut album from Trillium, the new Metal Project masterminded by American Singer Songwriter Amanda Somerville on November 4 in Europe and November 1 in North America. Alloy is an album that's charged with emotion and exploration and a very personal statement from Amanda and certainly the listener can enjoy very different musical atmospheres on the album "Since I'm an eclectic and diverse person and musician, that certainly comes out in this album" says Amanda. "I think that the diversity is what is going to set this album apart from other stuff that's out there right now. It's got big choruses and epic symphonic hits, guitar solos you could imagine being played on a mountain top with an aerial camera view, but it's also got a lot of soul added to the raise-your-fists-in-the-air-and-make-a-mean-face vibe". Musically Trillium melts Rock and Metal in a new, interesting and different way from anything Amanda has worked on so far. "Alloy" is also graced with the talents of several musicians with whom Amanda had the honor of working in the past. Sander Gommans (ex After Forever, HDK) and Sascha Paeth (Kamelot, Avantasia, Epica, After Forever etc) were the main songwriters together with the American singer on this album. They have brought a lot to the project and have certainly allowed the sound to be a lot richer and stronger. "Sander is all around an awesome songwriter and guitar player, and he's especially good at coming up with riffs and movements of a song, while Sascha is a fantastic producer who can play any instrument there is - and play the hell out of it - and his sense of songwriting is really strong!" tells Amanda. Other contributing musicians include Miro Rodenberg who did all of the orchestral and keyboard arrangements, Robert Hunecke on drums, Olaf Reitmeier on acoustic guitar, Simon Oberender on keyboards (and mastering). But more surprises are on this record: "Working with Mat Sinner on Kiske-Somerville established a solid professional relationship and I also found a good friend in him" says Amanda. "We co-wrote "Love Is An Illusion" together for this album and it was a pleasure working with him once again!" And last, but in no way least, Jorn Lande has lent his epic voice to the song "Scream It." Ms. Somerville tells the story: "I actually wrote that song with Jorn in mind not for his status in the scene, but because I absolutely love his voice, he's a wonderful friend of mine through working together on Avantasia and he was the perfect "actor" to play the character in the song. And he nailed it!" With touring plans in Europe in the first quarter of 2012 and a rousing excitement surrounding Trillium, you can bet the world is finally ready to enjoy the talents of one of the most interesting, creative and gifted singers and songwriters of today's entire Rock scene. "Alloy" will be exclusively released in a lavish digipak cd edition and will include the following songs: Machine Gun; Coward; Purge; Utter Descension; Bow To the Ego; Mistaken; Scream It; Justifiable Casualty; Path of Least Resistance; Into The Dissonance; Slow It Down; Love Is An Illusion*. *bonus track While a videoclip for the song "Coward" is in the works, you can now enjoy a video presentation of the album following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7KQITdzezc. Stay tuned for more exciting news regarding Trillium! Weblinks: www.amandasomerville.com / www.youtube.com/amandasomerville / www.twitter.com/amsomerville / www.facebook.com/amandasomervillemusic.   xx DAVID COVERDALE CELEBRATES HIS 60TH BIRTHDAY ON SEPTEMBER 22: "I've retired more times than Frank Sinatra - but it never last for very long..." / Legendary Whitesnake singer David Coverdale is going to celebrate his 60th birthday on September 22nd. His latest studio record "Forevermore", released on March 25th, shows experience, musical maturity and a personality that is far from jaded after an almost 40 year career. Also it is an evidence that Whitesnake's career is far from finished, even if Coverdale evoked the end quite a few times in the last years: "I've retired more times than Frank Sinatra - but luckily I didn't tell many people." he laughs. "The music business can be so exhausting & destructive on a person, which makes you think sometimes, that you have to step back & take stock of your situation & circumstances", Coverdale confessed. Today David Coverdale is happy that he never threw totally stepped away. He recently wrote a song called "Best Years" that he says still perfectly fits describes his life with him turning 60 years old. He explains: "It's great that I'm able to still work as a musician. And with it came consistency in my career and also in my private life. I really am experiencing the best times of my life these days, & believe me, I've seen a lot." Forevermore is Whitesnake's eleventh album released on Frontiers Records. The band is still known as one of the most successful acts of all times with several platinum awards. Through his eloquent, always cultivated, British-charming personality David Coverdale is not only known as a rock patron, but a highly regarded gentlemen within the rock business. There are not many other musicians that deal with love and passion in their lyrics like he does. And also there are just a few acts that are able to highlight lyrics perfectly and successfully with thrilling blues and soul anthems like he does. Before Coverdale, who's originally from Saltburn-by-Sea area, founded Whitesnake, he was the lead vocalist for Deep Purple. When Coverdale celebrates his 60th birthday on September 22nd he's able to look back at a musical career that is almost 40 years long. "I'm going to celebrate my birthday with my private family & my musical family", he reveals, "I will party several times on several different continents. Even if it sounds a little un-rock & roll, I will use the day to reflect and be thankful for what I achieved in my life so far. I'm incredibly grateful to still be experiencing professional success & to be so physically active in what I do, after all these years." WebLinks: www.whitesnake.com / www.frontiers.it.   AOR HEAVEN PRESENTS WHITE WIDDOW EUROPEAN TOUR 2011: For the first time Australian Melodic Rockers White Widdow will perform in Europe in support of their new album Serenade, available now on AOR Heaven. September 24th - Supporting KEEL @ Rock City, Uster, Switzerland September 25th - HEAT festival @ Rockfrabrik, Ludwigsburg, Germany September 29th - Rock Is Trieste, Trieste, Italy October 1st - Garage Deluxe Rock Club, Munich, Germany October 7th - Crazy Nights Rock Club, Harry B James, Stockholm, Sweden October 14th - Bat City, Athens, Greece October 23rd - FIREFEST @ Rock City, Nottingham, England Rubicon Music to release "Serenade" in Japan on October 12th - Serenade will be released in Japan on Rubicon Music on October 12th and will include 3 bonus tracks. The bonus tracks are the three original demo songs that were featured on the White Widdow digital EP that initially got the band signed to AOR Heaven, Cross To Bare, Change Of Passion & Don't Fail Me Now. WebLinks: www.whitewiddow.com.au / www.facebook.com/whitewiddowaor / www.aorheaven.com.   NEW GOLDEN RESURRECTION "MAN WITH A MISSION" – WORLDWIDE RELEASE, OCTOBER 26: Doolittle Group Sweden are proud to announce Golden Resurrection's new studio album Man With A Mission. Golden Resurrection - The melodic rock/metal sensation from Sweden where virtuoso playing, big choruses & great song arrangements meets in perfection. 2nd album Man With A Mission is a musical journey featuring 10 new blistering songs written by producer, composer, guitarist & vocalist Tommy ReinXeed (ReinXeed) & lead vocalist Christian Liljegren (Narnia & Divinefire). Guitarist & vocalist Tommy ReinXeed has received great response worldwide for his band ReinXeed especially the latest studio album 1912 and vocalist Christian Liljegren have now been active for over 20 years in the rock and roll circus, but still have the fire and passion. Together with Steven K - bass, Rickard Gustafsson - drums & Kenneth Lillqvist - keyboards they have finalized the album Man With A Mission where you hear elements from melodic metal to symphonic & progressive rock in a way that makes Golden Resurrection building their own musical platform. The band also show their dedication and tribute to the lost musical hero Gary Moore with their version of The End Of The World from Corridors Of Power from 1982. Kansas the symphonic & progressive rock kings is also an important musical influence for Golden Resurrection so enjoy their version of the song Point Of Know Return from 1977. King Records release the album Man With A Mission in Japan & Doolittle Group for the rest of the world. Listen to new songs, tour dates and more: www.myspace.com/goldenresurrection / www.facebook.com/goldenresurrection.   xx BIG COCK GOES SOFT: A note to all fans from Big Cock guitarist Dave Henzerling: "Hi, y'all - I just wanted to let you know the fan-funding experiment with Kickstarter was not successful (we did not reach our goal) and so we will not be doing another BC album. At this time, it is economically unfeasible to self-finance an entire album project cycle on our own, so BC as a band is effectively on permanent hiatus. We want to thank you all for your support over the last 5 years. I hope you'll keep an eye on our future projects and with your permission, I'll continue to update you on mine. Of course you can always unsubscribe from this list if you don't. I have a few things up my sleeve that I'm really excited about so I hope we can still communicate and interact. Thanks for listening." ~ Dave Henzerling (September 2011).

 

 

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

JOURNEY'S GREATEST HITS VOL. 2 SPANS HIT SINGLES, ALBUM TRACKS AND RARITIES FROM 1978 TO 1996: Journey's Enduring Appeal Is Affirmed Everywhere From Rock Band To The Sopranos, from Broadway's Rock Of Ages to Television's Glee --CD and gatefold double 180-gram virgin vinyl edition of Greatest Hits Vol. 2 -- AND gatefold double 180-gram virgin vinyl edition of original Greatest Hits -- available everywhere starting November 1, 2011 New York, Sept. 19, 2011 / Greatest Hits Vol. 2, a brand-new collection of original recordings by the mega-platinum band Journey will be available as a single CD, digital download, and special gatefold double-vinyl edition (which includes a code for a free digital download of the vinyl remastered album), available starting November 1, 2011. This new package from Columbia/Legacy, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, spans singles and album tracks recorded between 1978 and 1996. Journey's original Greatest Hits collection is one of the top-selling American rock albums of all time with worldwide sales in excess of 25 million. In conjunction with the double-LP version of Greatest Hits Vol. 2, the original Greatest Hits will also be issued as a gatefold double-vinyl edition on the same date, November 1 (which also includes a code for a free digital download of the vinyl remastered album). Journey, founded by guitar virtuoso Neal Schon in 1973, has achieved iconic pop culture status that has earned the band cumulative sales of more than 62 million albums, singles, and digital tracks in the U.S. alone. Their enduring appeal is affirmed everywhere from Rock Band to Tony Soprano's musical daydreams on HBO's The Sopranos, from Broadway's Rock Of Ages to FOX's Family Guy. Most notably, the cast of Glee celebrated Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" on the series premiere episode of 2009. The kids later paid homage with three songs on 2010's Journey to Regionals ("Faithfully," the medley of "Any Way You Want It / Lovin' Touchin' Squeezin'," and the new Regionals version of "Don't Stop Believin'"). When asked about his experience in the remastering back to vinyl of the original recordings of the Journey Greatest Hits and the new Greatest Hits Vol. 2, Steve Perry replied, "I truly forgot how sonically exciting and just plain better these Journey tracks sound back where they originally lived...on Vinyl. The stereo separation, the center imaging and the sonic depth of the tracks themselves is more true to what we all loved about these original final mixes. All the instruments and voices, to me personally, sound so damn good that all I want to do is reach for the volume and turn it up!" "I'm very excited to be releasing this compilation," said Neal Schon. "Many of these songs were written in our earlier days by Steve Perry and myself, and hearing them again brings back great memories. 'Little Girl' has an extra special meaning for me because it's one of the songs my father, who worked with us for many years, worked on with us. All our songs have stood the test of time, and I hope our fans will enjoy this collection." Jonathan Cain added, "Escape was my first album with Journey in 1981 and I never looked back. A lot of the songs in those days were in pieces -- like a puzzle to figure out. The connection we had was magic -- and like a Super Bowl team -- we always found a way to get it right." Covering 18 central years in the Journey saga, Greatest Hits Vol. 2 includes tracks from the band's fourth album, Infinity (1978), produced by Roy Thomas Baker, which marked the entry of Steve Perry's distinctive lead vocals into the lineup ("Feeling That Way," "Anytime," "Patiently"). Their next album, Evolution (1979) was also produced by Baker and features "Just The Same Way". Departure (1980) was the first of seven consecutive studio albums by Journey to reach the Top 10, and platinum or multi-platinum, over the next 16 years ("Walks Like A Lady," "Good Morning Girl," "Stay Awhile"). One of the cornerstone bands in radio's new Album Rock format, Journey's popularity was so overwhelming that they were able to release a single from their double-LP concert set, Captured (1981). "The Party's Over (Hopelessly In Love)" broke inside the Top 40, and was the #2 song on Billboard's Mainstream Rock chart. Journey's hold on the charts continued with Escape (1981), the band's first #1 album. Escape spent nearly three years on Billboard's Top 200 chart and produced four hit singles -- "Who's Crying Now," "Don't Stop Believin'," "Open Arms" (all on Greatest Hits) and "Still They Ride" along with the rock staples, "Stone In Love," "Mother, Father" and the title track "Escape" (all on Greatest Hits Vol. 2). Escape was produced by Mike Stone (Queen, Kiss, America and others) and Kevin Elson, who went on to produce the next album, Frontiers (1983). Frontiers ("After The Fall," "Chain Reaction") debuted the week before Michael Jackson's Thriller hit #1 -- thus the LP had the distinction of being one of many albums to occupy the #2 spot (for nine weeks) during Thriller's reign at the top. Raised On Radio was released in 1986, featuring an assortment of top studio musicians including noted jazz-funk-R&B bassist Randy Jackson (of American Idol) who went on to tour with Journey through 1987. Raised On Radio was another double-platinum album for Journey, spending 67 weeks on the album chart, and spinning off the Top 20 hit "Suzanne." In 1992, Journey became one of the first American rock bands to release a deluxe multi-CD box set, Time(3). Comprised mostly of hit singles and key album tracks from the band's first dozen albums, Time(3) also contained a number of previously unreleased tracks and rarities. Among these was "Little Girl," from the original motion picture soundtrack of Dream After Dream, an obscure foreign film whose entire score was performed by Journey, issued by Columbia in 1980. A Journey reunion took place in the '90s, and the recording of Trial By Fire (1996) was the result, with Steve Perry, Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain, Ross Valory, and Steve Smith all on-board for their first album together since Frontiers. Featuring "When I Think Of You," Trial By Fire rose to #3 and continued Journey's platinum streak. Greatest Hits Vol. 2 wraps up with a live concert version of "Mother, Father" -- a highlight of Live In Houston 1981 - Escape Tour, a Columbia/Legacy archive release in 2005 which featured both video and audio versions of the same 75-minute program. As Rolling Stone contributing editor David Wild wrote, "Whether on the radio or on some stage, these well-built tunes remain sturdy crowd pleasers to this very day, in their second century of airplay. Some DJ is playing a Journey song somewhere right now and many more are out there singing along -- you can bet on it." Greatest Hits Vol. 2 by Journey (Columbia/Legacy 88697 77986 2) Selections: 1. Stone In Love - 2. After The Fall - 3. Chain Reaction - 4. The Party's Over (Hopelessly In Love) - 5. Escape - 6. Still They Ride - 7. Good Morning Girl - 8. Stay Awhile - 9. Suzanne - 10. Feeling That Way - 11. Anytime - 12. Walks Like A Lady - 13. Little Girl - 14. Just The Same Way - 15. Patiently - 16. When I Think Of You - 17. Mother, Father (Live In Houston, 1981). Greatest Hits Vol. 2 vinyl and CD meticulously remastered to vinyl by Robert Hadley and Steve Perry at The Mastering Lab in Ojai, CA. Greatest Hits Vol. 1 vinyl meticulously remastered to vinyl by Doug Sax, Robert Hadley and Steve Perry at The Mastering Lab in Ojai, CA. WebLink: www.LegacyRecordings.com.   ESCAPE MUSIC PREPARE NEW TALON: Escape Music have signed US rockers Talon for the release of their new studio album III. It will be released in Europe November 25. Track List: 1- Crying To Me 2- The Last Time 3- Did You Have To Say 4- Everytime 5- Take You All The Way 6- Maybe One Day 7- You Don't Know Me At All 8- Walk Away 9- Brothers 10- When Will I 11- You Got What It Takes 12- Jane. The Band: Shawn Pelata - Lead and Backing Vocals; Kory Voxen - Rhythm Guitar, Acoustic Guitar; Jim Kee - Lead Guitar; Phil Keller - Bass Guitar; Eric Ragno – Keyboards; John Parker - Drums; Backing Vocals: Erik Johnson. *Guest Musicians: Jeff Scott Soto: Lead and Backing Vocals on "Take You All The Way" Produced by Ty Sims / Co-Produced by John Parker and Kory Voxen. An American band and based in California, Talon was born from the ashes of Voxen – a band that achieved international success with their release "Sacrifice", which included a track that was used in the major motion picture "Outbreak" starring Dustin Hoffman. Soon after, a new vision was brought forward with the recruitment of Michael O'Mara (Joshua Perahia, EFX) and demos were soon recorded and then the band signed on with Now and Then/Frontiers Records which culminated with the release of their self-titled debut. The CD was produced by Mikey Davis (KISS, W.A.S.P., Slaughter). Upon release, the CD was wildly praised and was on countless top-10 lists for the year. Soon followed major live shows, including The Gods Festival in the U.K. Talon also had the privilege of being Stan Bush's backing band at The Gods Festival and the subsequent DVD release. After a break of working on individual projects, Talon recorded new demos and ultimately signed with Kivel Records and then recorded their next release "Fallen Angels". With a closer vibe to an AOR feel, New York native Chandler Mogel was brought on board and more live shows – including Firefest 5 – were performed. "Fallen Angels" was a huge success and brought Talon into the forefront of the Melodic Rock field. Upon mutual agreement, Chandler Mogel went on to front the Greece outfit Outloud and with a new group of songs, Talon were on a quest to create the ultimate album and added some serious quality to the band – Shawn Pelata (Line of Fire) and Eric Ragno (China Blue, Takara, etc.). Now – the band have just signed to Escape Music for the release of this classic slab of Melodic Rock – "III" – which is scheduled for release in November, 2011! Talon "III" recently completed mixing at The Recovery Room by Ty Sims (Far Cry, Tango Down) and is full of classic hard rock songs and ballads that the band describes as "really a return to the sound, vibe and energy of our debut S/T release". "This latest CD was a total labour of love and we all feel this will be our strongest release to date! We pulled out all the stops and really think the results speak for themselves and is an excellent follow-up to our recent 'Fallen Angels' release". In addition, premiere vocalist Jeff Scott Soto (Journey, Talisman, JSS) has a guest appearance on the album with some amazing lead vocals on the hard-driving track "Take You All The Way"! The best musicians contributed their best talents to help create an outstanding release! LabelLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   FIONA RETURNS WITH POWERFUL NEW CD: After a 20 year hiatus, international recording artist and actress Fiona is back in action with a new CD, Unbroken, produced by James Christian of the famed House Of Lords. Unbroken contains mostly all new songs written by Fiona, James Christian, Tommy Denander, Holly Knight, Marc Tanner and UK pop production team, The Elements. It also includes a dramatic remake of Shadows of the Night with DL Byron's original dark lyrics, a tribute to the beloved 80's band, Prophet, and a bonus female duet with internationally renowned rocker, Robin Beck. It's hard to think of the 80's music scene without remembering Fiona's duet with Kip Winger "Everything You Do (You're Sexing Me) as well as her acting roles as Bob Dylan's love interest in Hearts of Fire and the Miami Vice second season episode "Little Miss Dangerous". Fans will embrace Unbroken's intense melodic rock sound which is driven by guitarist/songwriter Tommy Denander and topped off with performances from original Fiona band member, Bobby Messano. "I have released this new CD for two reasons. Very polite, albeit relentless hounding from fans and the absolute joy of creating this particular music that I miss so much. After raising a family and getting some sleep it was clear that I was ready to sing again.  It is in this spirit that I dedicate this CD to all fans old and new. Thank you for the pushes, gentle and intense. Especially from my friend and fellow artist Robin Beck and the AOR Melodic rock community. Here it is. Enjoy. With affection and gratitude, I am yours, UNBROKEN." US Release Date - October 1, 2011 On Retrospect Records/Distribution www.retrospectrecords.com. UK/European Release Date - October 17, 2011 on Cargo Records/Distribution www.cargorecords.co.uk. Track Listing: Loved Along The Way, Broken, I've Released You, Shadows Of The Night, Badge Of Love, Wild One, This Heart (Duet with Robin Beck), Get Yer Kix, Salt On My Wings, I Love You But Shut Up, Everything You Are. All songs written and produced for: Her Majesty's Music Room. Recorded at Dream Beam Studios West Palm Beach Florida. Produced, Mixed and Mastered by James Christian www.jameschristianmusic.com. I Love You But Shut Up and I've Released You Produced by The Elements / James Christian. Musicians: Vocals: Fiona / Duet Vocalist: Robin Beck / Guitar: Tommy Denander (Loved Along the Way, Broken, Salt on My Wings, Everything You Are, Badge of Love) / Guitar: Bobby Messano (Shadows of the Night, Wild One, This Heart, Get Yer Kix) / Guitars/Programming: Dai Smith (I Love You But Shut Up) / Rhythm Guitar: Paul Jones (I've Released You) / Lead Guitar: Dai Smith (I've Released You) / Bass: James Christian / Keyboards: Jeff Batter / Drums: James Jamal / Background Vocals: Robin Beck/James Christian. WebLink: www.fionarock.com.   NEW N.O.W. VIDEO: Alec Mendonça, the man behind AOR sensations N.O.W. has put together a video for his band's latest single, the track Strong Enough, which appears exclusively on the current MelodicRock.com compilation - The Next Chapter. MRCD8 can be ordered here. Check out the video now.   INXS DUMP ANOTHER FRONTMAN - FOR THE SECOND TIME IN THIS CASE: Those bozo's in Inxs are at it again. Vocalist JD Fortune has been "removed" from the line-up by the band simply recording new material without inviting the "lead singer" to join them. Instead, it looks like Irish vocalist and Bono soundalike Michael "Rea" Garvey might be the latest singer to help the band. It is his vocals on the band's new song Tiny Summer, available to hear now at: inxs.com/Tiny_Summer.html. Not the world's greatest song either... This from Canoe.ca: "Australian rockers Inxs have fired their frontman J.D. Fortune for the second time in two years. The singer won his place in the band in 2005 after winning the TV talent search Rock Star: Inxs, but he was booted from the line-up in 2009 and forced to seek help for a drug abuse problem that was spiralling out of control. Fortune was welcomed back to the Original Sin hitmakers as Michael Hutchence's permanent replacement in January - but the reunion has been brief and the singer recently revealed he had not been included in plans for the band's new music. In a post on his Twitter.com blog, he wrote, "As of now I have not been invited to be a part of Inxs's new music." According to Australia's Herald Sun newspaper, the existing members of Inxs are expected to make a formal announcement about Fortune's replacement later this week. NEWMAN UPDATE - FIREFEST AND OTHER STORIES: Newman update, as delivered by the man himself: "We have been confirmed to play Firefest 2011! As you are probably now aware due to unforeseen circumstances Far Cry are unable to make the event this year so it's with mixed emotions we will now open the Sunday 23rd October proceedings. Obviously we are absolutely over the moon to be asked back, we had such a great time last year. We also have further good news in that Pete Fry (Far Cry guitarist/songwriter) will still be flying to the show, and, not only that, will perform a Far Cry song with Newman. As you maybe aware Steve and Pete struck up a great relationship after they co-wrote 4 songs on the great new Optimism album. "I was so saddened when I heard the news in regards to Far Cry, I know how much Pete had been looking forward to this show, when I found out he was still travelling over it seemed natural to me to call him and invite him up onstage to perform one of the songs we wrote together, it's going to be great fun." ~ Steve. We are also pleased to announce that in part of the preparations for Firefest we will also be playing a warm up show with Fay Wray: 7 October - Portsmouth - Heroes, Waterlooville, Hampshire UK Newman will be performing the first set including songs from the new Under Southern Skies" album and will also be joined by Mark Thompson-Smith to perform one of the songs from the recent Big Life album. The rest of the night will be handled by Mark and Fay Wray playing a massive selection of rock covers. The latest Newman album "Under Southern Skies" is available now from www.newmansound.com, www.aorheaven.com, and most other online retailers.   MYSTIC PROPHECY PRESENTS NEW SONG RAVENLORD: Mystic Prophecy presents new song Ravenlord - www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHkEiTIkqXQ. The new album titled Raven Lord will be released November 25 and comes as a Digipack + Limited Gatefold Vinyl edition, hand-signed, 500 copies. Tracks: 01. Ravenlord 02. Die Now 03. Eyes Of The Devil 04. Cross Of Lies 05. Endless Fire 06. Wings Of Destiny 07. Damned Tonight 08. Hollow 09. Reckoning Day 10. Back With The Storm Bonus Track: 11 Miracle Man (Ozzy Cover). Mystic Prophecy is: R.D. Liapakis - Vocals, Constantine - Guitars, Markus Pohl - Guitars, Connie Andreszka - Bass, Tyronne Silva - Drums. WebLinks: www.facebook.com/mysticprophecy / www.myspace.com/mysticprophecy / www.rockngrowl.com. ERIC CARR, KISS, 20TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIVE CD: Legendary Kiss drummer Eric Carr was an intricate part of the band for over 11 years. His powerful drumming rocked the music world through the Metal 80's & early 90's. Eric Carr still remains a positive influence for both drummers & rock fans alike. This CD features over 17 rare Eric Carr rare recordings which Include: Unreleased Music, live performances, remixes and interview clips. Performances by Eric Carr PLUS members & former members of Kiss, Twisted Sister, ZO2, Seether, Europe, Grand Funk Railroad, Ted Poley, (Singer, Songwriter) Marcia Juell & more! This CD is a testament to a man whose personality & heart were as big as his enormous talent. Eric's spirit is alive in each and every song. Some Of The Rare And Unreleased Music On This Commemorative Disc Include: Songs Like Shandi, set the tempo early on, for an enjoyable Music experience! (never released) / Performed by Eric Carr. We have removed Eric's Shandi vocals, from his 1980 KISS audition tape, and combined them with a refreshing new musical arrangement, which makes this update soar. Classical guitar rhythms by Charles Sedlak and seductive background vocals from Marcia Juell, & Benny Doro, make the results unforgettably sweet and totally unexpected. Enjoy this unique version of this old KISS classic. No One's Messin' With You (never released) / Performed by Eric Carr, Bruce Kulick (Kiss). This song was discovered on an old DAT recording owned and made by Eric. This alternative version of Little Caesar, from the 1989 Kiss, album Hot in the Shad has an entirely different set of lyrics and vocal melody. Carr handles the gritty vocals and bass guitar while Bruce Kulick fills it out with some rock-in'riffs. Troubles Inside You / Performed by: Eric Carr and Mitch Weissman. This is a complete demo taken from the original cassette tape, featuring Mitch Weissman (KISS song co-writer, Beatlemania) on lead vocals. Mitch jokes about how he and Eric were at Gene Simmons house "just fooling around." Mitch wanted to try something different, so he sat inside a closet with his microphone and belted out this easy flowing song. In the meantime, Eric programmed the drum machine, played some guitars, and added background vocals, creating that playful 80's sound. All Hell's Breaking Loose / Performed by ZO2 (co-written by Eric Carr, (Kiss Lick It Up 1983). Rockers Z02 add their own special touch to deliver a solid performance. Driving vocals by Paulie Z, powerful drums by Joey Cassata & bass tracks by David Z, are the core of this KISS metal classic. Z02 has nailed it! Dial L For Love (never released) / Performed, by Eric Carr. Written in 1987, this demo, with it's upbeat tempo, was one step away from being complete. After so many years Kiss fans can finally hear this unreleased track. Definitely a fitting song for a future Kiss album. Just Can't Wait (never released) / Performed by Ted Poley, Eric Carr & Bruce Kulick (Kiss) originally released as an instrumental in 2001. This song, with its catchy hook, has been re-mastered using Eric and Bruce's original studio drum and guitar tracks. In addition, Ted Poley adds his soulful vocals using lyrics written in 2006. This fan favorite can once again be enjoyed, but this time complete with full vocals and backgrounds. Elephant Man: (Debut Release), Eric Carr's last known composition / Performed by AJ Pero (Twisted Sister), Kee Marcelo (Europe), Bob Gilmartin. Special performances by Eric Carr's Sister & Niece. Eric wrote these touching lyrics in late 1991. In 2006, music was composed to complete this song. Eric's emotions at that time, can be easily felt though the passionate slide guitar solo, and powerful vocals. This song also reunites Eric, with his sister Maria & niece Sara-Jean, as they pay tribute with their heartfelt background vocals. Enjoy some music samples featured this CD. Click link: traffic.libsyn.com/amplified247/montage_-_FINAL_with_voice_091611_mp3_version.mp3. You will receive a commemorative "unfinished business" pick with your order! only from ericcarr.com.   BON JOVI TO STREAM ANOTHER SHOW: As a special thank you to Bon Jovi fans everywhere, BonJovi.com presents "Bon Jovi: 'Live' From Lisbon Encore", Bon Jovi's last show of the 2011 tour filmed in Lisbon, Portugal on July 31st! The legendary performance will stream Wednesday, September 21st for fans worldwide on BonJovi.com and Facebook.com/BonJovi! There will be 3 airings so tune in to any or all of the times below to catch this unforgettable show! First Airing: 8:00PM EST (Sydney) // 7:00PM JST (Tokyo) // 6:00AM EDT (New York) Second Airing: 8:00PM BST (London) // 3:00PM EDT Third Airing: 8:00PM EDT // 7:00PM CDT // 6:00PM MDT // 5:00PM PDT PRESS RELEASE NEW GOLDEN RESURRECTION - MAN WITH A MISSION - RELEASE WORLDWIDE OCTOBER 26: Doolittle Group Sweden are proud to announce Golden Resurrection's new studio album Man With A Mission. Golden Resurrection - The melodic rock/metal sensation from Sweden where virtouso playing, big choruses & great song arrangements meets in perfection. 2nd album Man With A Mission is a musical journey featuring 10 new blistering songs written by producer, composer, guitarist & vocalist Tommy ReinXeed (ReinXeed) & lead vocalist Christian Liljegren (Narnia & Divinefire). Guitarist & vocalist Tommy ReinXeed has received great response worldwide for his band ReinXeed especially the latest studio album 1912 and vocalist Christian Liljegren have now been active for over 20 years in the rock and roll circus, but still have the fire and passion. Together with Steven K - bass, Rickard Gustafsson - drums & Kenneth Lillqvist - keyboards they have finalized the album Man With A Mission where you hear elements from melodic metal to symphonic & progressive rock in a way that makes Golden Resurrection building their own musical platform. The band also show their dedication and tribute to the lost musical hero Gary Moore with their version of The End Of The World from Corridors Of Power from 1982. Kansas the symphonic & progressive rock kings is also an important musical influence for Golden Resurrection so enjoy their version of the song Point Of Know Return from 1977. KING RECORDS release the album Man With A Mission in Japan & Doolittle Group for the rest of the world. Listen to new songs, tour dates and more: www.myspace.com/goldenresurrection / www.facebook.com/goldenresurrection.

 

 

Monday, September 19, 2011

VAN HALEN LOOK AT COLUMBIA RECORDS FOR NEW HOME: As widely discussed all weekend long, record industry website gave mention to some interesting Van Halen news late Friday. From www.hitsdailydouble.com/news/newsPage.cgi?news08690m01 came this: "After spending its entire 35-year career at WB, Van Halen, with David Lee Roth back in the fold, recently completed work on its first album for new label Columbia, coming early next year… " At this stage, that's all there is. I was told a little while back the band was in talks with Sony and it appears a deal has been reached. I will have a follow up on this with any extra details available in a day or two. For now the only extra info my source had was to state that as they were aware, the papers had not yet been signed. I did ask the band's LA publicist to comment, to which I got the reply "no comment". Stay tuned! FIREFEST PRESS RELEASE - WARRANT AND FARCRY OUT - W.E.T. IN!: This Press Release from the Firefest promoters arrived late Friday. Firefest 2011 will be held in Nottingham, UK October 21-23. For those that haven't seen it - read on: "It is with great sadness and not an inconsiderable amount of anger that we have to announce that Warrant will not be playing Firefest. Despite us having a signed contract with the band since last January, and the band having been paid in full some months ago for their performance, we were advised by their agent via Email just this this week that Warrant would not be playing the show. Needless to say we made contact with their agents (with whom we have an excellent relationship for many years) who explained to us that Warrant's management had just informed them that the band would not be travelling. We immediately sought an explanation from the band and/or their management with regard to their cancellation of the Firefest performance, and to date we have not had the courtesy of a reply despite us requesting one via Email and by phone.   At the time we booked Warrant we were expressly requested not to book flights for the band as they wished to play extra European shows around the Firefest date and would like to route flights around a full tour schedule with Firefest as the sole UK date. It is our opinion that the band was unable to confirm any extra shows in the time-frame and they then decided that it was not a worthwhile exercise to travel from the U.S.A. to play a single show. At no time over the past number of months did any extra European shows appear on the tour schedule on their web site, which further reinforces our opinion that the lack of other shows is ultimately the reason that Warrant have chosen to cancel. Once again we would like to reiterate that this is our opinion as repeated requests for an explanation from Warrant's management remain unanswered. It seems to us that a signed contract is not worth the paper it is written on when a band can simply decide not to travel to play a show a mere five weeks before they are scheduled to perform. Their booking agency have been totally professional and offered to assist us in any way in finding a replacement act, and we in no way bear any ill will towards them. However we do find the behaviour of an international multi-platinum act leaves us with a sour taste as over the past seven years every act that has been scheduled to play Firefest had done so with the notable exception of Tony Harnell due to a serious illness to an immediate family member and Saracen at FF2 due to guitarist Rob Bendelow's illness. Work visas for Warrant had been applied for, passport copies for the Warrant party were sent to us in order to do this and book flights for the band, something which we agreed to do even though flights would have cost a lot more this week than we would have paid for them at the time we booked the band. We, as you are extremely disappointed that we will not be able to see the band perform, as I'm sure everybody was looking forward to it, but it does appear that Warrant are not interested in playing for you. With the Warrant cancellation happening late this week, the search for a suitable replacement began. Kieran spent hours on the phone and Email looking for a suitable replacement, but given the short notice (5 weeks and a day or two) of the 14 bands he spoke with no one was available to play due to some having previous engagements, some on vacation, some members playing solo shows and one or two asking extortionate amounts to "help you out". Thanks, but no thanks. As luck would have it one of our good friends got wind of the situation and immediately contacted us to see if he could help. And this was a genuine offer, so following discussions that started in the UK, and finished in Madrid last night, we do have a rather nice surprise in store. Firstly the headline slot on Saturday night will now feature the Steve Augeri band. Steve and his merry men are stepping up to deliver a set list full of hits and instantly recognisable anthems. Whilst not wanting to give the game away, Steve will be featuring many tracks from his rich past and debuting some tracks from his forthcoming solo album. Need we tell you that he was the lead singer in Journey for over a decade? And also managed to be a part of Tyketto and Tall Stories. We have seen the set list and we can tell you Saturday night in Nottingham will be R-O-C-K-I-N-G!!!!! Strangeways will move to the Special Guest slot, Ian and Terry having been beaten with a big stick to make them play longer. In fact we have considered calling it 'Walk in the Fire ......and more' Expect Native Sons to be plundered for a lot of the extras (and especially the tracks they didn't play last year...shhh....don't tell them we told you!) Strangeways will also look to release their new studio album at Firefest assuming it is completed on time, which according to Ian, they are bang on schedule.   So to the other important piece of news, who is joining the Saturday night line up? Well, we told you he was a good friend, in fact they all are. For the first time playing live ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD is... W.E.T. Jeff Scott Soto, Eric Martenson and Robert Sall released one of the best selling albums of 2009 within the melodic rock genre. Loaded full of melodic hard rockin' anthems such as 'Brothers in Arms' 'Invincible' and 'One Love', W.E.T. have been on almost every wish list sent to Firefest over the past three years. Firefest would like to publically thank all the guys in the band for literally dropping everything and offering to jump on board to play for us. We would also like to thank the one and only JSS for the call proving indeed that we are all 'Brothers in Arms'. W.E.T. will play just before Strageways in the revised schedule and most definitely are a band NOT TO MISSED. W.E.T. on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIpvz5zEFrI&feature=related / www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZZe9oEZVB4&feature=related. And so to the second line up change. Farcry will not be joining us at Firefest for the reasons outlined by Kivel Records boss John Kivel and Farcry's own Pete Fry. "Hello to All, It is with regret and disappointment that Farcry will not be able to attend this year's Firefest event. Both the band and label are honoured that there was such an interest in them to perform. For that we sincerely thank you. I wish that I could lie to you and say someone is unable to attend due to "insert cliché press reason here", or blame it on a "disagreement" etc., etc. I wish it was that easy. However, both myself and the band have far too much respect for the fine folks at the Firefest organization, not to mention, YOU. The faithful fans that attend each year, and show your support for our modest genre/scene. So the bottom line? Why? Who? Well, the buck, so to speak, stops and lands with ME. Unfortunately the expense of 5-6 international plane tickets has proven way too expensive. We had hoped that the price would drop, and they were starting to show promise to a somewhat "reasonable" price. However, time was not on our side. Firefest needed Visas in this week and could not take the chance that the airfare would be procured. So it was agreed that we had passed the deadline. Fault does not lay with the band, or anyone associated with Firefest (Maybe the Oil Co. perhaps? LOL.) Both I and Pete Fry have looked into every possible idea and suggestion conceivable. In the end Farcry is a 5 piece band, and no one was going to be left behind. We weren't going to find a local "fill in" guy to sit in, or play as a 4 piece, just so I could save $$$. If we all couldn't go, then none of us would go. Let's look at this as a delay for the UK fans to see Farcry in concert, and hopefully, Farcry will be asked to play next year. I would like to thank Kieran, Bruce and Co. for offering Farcry the chance to play their shindig. It truly was met with great appreciation, and we sincerely thank them. We are sure the weekend of Oct 22nd will be a blast! Now please allow me to get on my soap box for a second. Please, if you haven't purchased your tickets for Firefest yet, then I strongly suggest you do just that. Please get out there and show support for this scene. These websites, Labels, Bands and Promoters. Don't assume that you'll just go to the "next" Firefest. Go to Firefest NOW. Like a Plant needing sunlight to grow, our genre and scene needs positive support to grow as well. Be well my friends and enjoy music, as it's the soundtrack to our lives. Sincerely, John Kivel." From Pete Fry - Farcry: "I would just like to sincerely echo John's appreciation for all parties involved in giving us the honour of a spot on the bill. I really can't even put into words how it feels to get that kind of support. We are truly sorry to disappoint all of you by not being able to perform. Please don't take any of this as a lack of appreciation on our part. Believe me, like John said we looked at this from every angle and we just couldn't make it happen. I and everyone else in the band knows that the label did everything they could, sometimes things don't work out the way you want them to. As John mentioned we hope to have the opportunity to play Firefest again! On a slightly more positive note, being as I had already purchased my airfare, I will be attending the show and staying in Nottingham the entire weekend." Pete. And so the search was on for a second act to join the Sunday line up. Call it fate; perfect timing, luck or whatever you wish to, but on the end of the phone was another good friend of ours who called to say that he had just finished production on his brand new live album. The voice on the end of the phone was that of none other than Mr. Steve Newman and in the space of approximately 30 seconds it was agreed that Newman would open the show on Sunday. Remembering last year's Newman performance you are reminded just why Steve is so highly thought of and respected by fans and fellow musicians alike. Steve will of course be promoting his new album 'Under Southern Skies' along with playing a selection of Newman fan favourites from his long career. Steve will also be happy to sign copies of his brand new live album recorded live at Firefest 2010 'Another Step Closer' which will be available to pre order shortly from both the Firefest and Newman web sites. This is Newman's first live recording of his 20 year career and is indeed a little bit special. Limited numbers will be available and details of how to pre order will be advised shortly. Firefest would like to take this opportunity to apologise for any disappointment caused by the non-appearance of Warrant and Farcry, both of these decisions were completely out of our hands as explained in detail above. There was simply nothing we could do about it. It has been an unbelievably stressful few days for all the Firefest crew as we worked around the clock (literally) endeavouring to bring you the absolute best we could in nigh on impossible circumstances given the timeframe we had to work in. Find extra flights, book them, change hotel rooms, add some subtract more, change transport arrangements a few times, process more work visas, and all the time cursing the rock and roll gods for making life even more difficult than it already is dealing with 17 bands on a daily basis and making sure that every other aspect of the show goes to plan. The last thing any of wanted was to be typing this press release a mere five weeks before the show. It goes to show you how the less than responsible and professional attitudes of some make life unnecessarily difficult for some and bring disappointment to all. We hope that you will continue to support us and the bands that have graciously stepped up to the plate as late replacements. Knowing you are on our side as always gives both Firefest and the bands that come to play a massive boost. We have always said it openly, YOU are the best fans in the world and for the bands that are not travelling, and it is their loss NOT to play in front if you." ~ The Crew. AVENUE OF ALLIES BACK WITH OCTOBER RELEASES: After a short break, Avenue Of allies are ready to storm back with the following new releases: Paradise Inc. Time Out: 21.10.2011 / "Paradise Inc. are a new Hard Rock band from Brazil fronted by German singer Carsten "Lizard" Schulz (Evidence One). Their debut album "Time" will be released on Oct 21st on Avenue Of Allies and in Europe it will include the bonus track "Steel Or Stone" in an acoustic version. The record was produced by Paul Logue (Eden's Curse) and mastered by Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69). Guests who can be heard on this album include Doogie White (ex-Rainbow) on vocals on the track „Not In Paradise", Paul Logue on bass on „Wait To See" and Italian keyboard player Alessandro Del Vecchio. More information on the band: www.paradiseinc.net. Paradise Inc. are: Carsten "Lizard" Schulz: Lead & backing vocals, De Grigo: Guitars, Marcos Peres: Guitars, Rick A.: Bass, Allan Juliano: Drums.   xx Soul Seller Back To Life Out 21.10.2011 / The other October release on Avenue Of Allies comes from Italian Melodic Rock band Soul Seller. Their CD is called "Back To Life" and also will hit the stores on Oct 21. Alessandro Del Vecchio (Shining Line, Lionville, Eden's Curse) was in charge for the production. The album includes a lead vocal duet with Oliver Hartmann (Hartmann, Avantasia). Soul Seller are based in Santhià in Northern Italy and appeared first on the scene in 1999. After the releases of their debut album "Underground Freedom" in the year 2000 the band went through some line-up changes until the current members finally found together in 2010. "Back To Life" now marks the next big step in the career of this five piece! More information on the band: www.soulseller.it. Soul Seller are: Michael Carrata: Lead & backing vocals, Dave Zublena: Rhythm guitars, lead & acoustic guitars, Cris Audisio: Lead guitars & guitar solos, Mike Zublena: Bass, Steve Bucci: Drums. Very Special Guests: Oliver Hartmann: Lead vocal duet on "Keep On Moving", Danilo Bar: Guitar solo on "Change Your Heart Tonight", Davide "Dave Rox" Barbieri & Alessandro Del Vecchio: Backing vocals.   xx PRE-ORDER CLASSIC ROCK PRESENTS AOR ISSUE 4 - BON JOVI - DUE FOR UK RELEASE 28/09/2011: Classic Rock Presents AOR issue 4 features Bon Jovi and the making of their landmark Slippery When Wet opus – the classic 1986 album that brought us Livin' On A Prayer, You Give Love A Bad Name and Wanted Dead Or Alive. Featuring previously unpublished pictures from the album sleeve session by official band photographer Mark Weiss, we investigate the making of Bon Jovi's make-or-break third album which subsequently catapulted them into superstardom. PLUS • In-depth features with the highly influential Franke Previte of Franke & The Knockouts plus America, one of the biggest soft rock singles bands of the early 70s. • We pay our respects to recently and sadly deceased songwriter and frontman Jani Lane with an in-depth look at the his life in and around Warrant. • Features on Coney Hatch, Diane Warren, Bai Bang, House Of Lords, Lionville, Steve Newman, Toby Hitchcock, plus many more and all the usual AOR new album and live reviews. This month's accompanying disc of 15 carefully-chosen AOR tracks, titled Get Your Wings featuring FM, Issa, White Widdow, Seb Bach, Riverdogs and more. All this and much more, AOR issue 4 is on sale from September 28. Pre-Order Link: www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk/music/Classic-Rock-Presents-AOR-4-Bon-Jovi.html.   INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Greece's Rockpages did an exclusive interview with Ioannis. Apart from covering his entire career, Ioannis was kind enough to give as a signed print of his for one lucky winner. Read the excerpt below and then head to read the whole interview on Rockpages...there you will find all the details about the competition: Rockpages.gr: Record business is on a decline. How do you see the cover design business in the near and far future? Ioannis: Record labels are on the decline and unless they adept will become obsolete, however music is as huge if not bigger than ever and the opportunities for a band to be self-supporting and sell their music is limitless. In the past if a label did not sign you, you were out, it was financially with a few exceptions very difficult to record an album, get it distributed, get airplay, join a tour etc. Not today the internet, technology and viral opportunities have created a level field, a band can grow slowly sell directly to their fans, do gigs, get a following, sell their merchandise and have a number of other options to distribute their music so IF they sign with a label eventually they are in the drivers seat. Look at Porcupine Tree or Opeth. Also they have so many ways to license their music, movies, commercials, video games, and television, ring tones, sporting events and so on. Touring and merchandise are now the main income for acts, just look at the explosion of festivals and tours around the world just in metal alone! As far as my work the need is the same just that the technology and palette are changing, for example as I had mentioned earlier the bands still need a look and a style, so their logo is very important, the merchandise design, stage graphics, the website design and so on. I am already trying out concepts as to how they would look on iPad which is the next great frontier. As for physical product when the band releases it now to those fans that want that, it's more elaborate (DigiPacks with inserts, special box sets, vinyl) it's not about CD/jewel cases anymore which I think are becoming less attractive to the buyer, and collector who likes physical product. Read The Full Interview On: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=6161&type=1&lang=EN. In the Hard Rock and Metal communities, Tore St. Moren most notably is known for his role as one of Jorn Lande's primary guitarists. Sharing this role in Jorn's band since 2000, Moren has been featured on six studio albums, two compilation albums, one live album and video, and a tribute album to Ronnie James Dio. However, his body of recorded work extends beyond his role in Jorn. Hardrock Haven's exclusive interview with Moren delves deeper into his musical past and sheds light on the future. Read the interview here: hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/tore-st-moren/ Gamma Ray frontman Kai Hansen will appear on this week's edition of Caffeine Bomb. Make sure you tune in at 7:00 p.m. EST on Monday, September 19th, to 91.7 FM WHUS in Eastern Connecticut, or stream live at WHUS.org. MELODIC BRIEFS: Y&T will be all over Europe from September 23 till November 5, covering 13 countries, doing 29 dates. Here's a link to a YouTube promo for the tour: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ieb5Q-GbeIU. South African hard rockers Stonecollar have released an acoustic single and music video to celebrate Women's Month. The boys teamed up with POWA (People Opposing Women Abuse) and recorded an acoustic version of the song that inspired it all ­ Turn A Blind Eye. The new arrangement features haunting melodies and guitar work, but sill has their signature rock edge. The song is available for purchase via download at this location - www.cdbaby.com/cd/stonecollar2. Each download is to be sold for $0.99 through CDBaby with all proceeds from the sale being donated to POWA. To do their bit for the campaign. The band have also produced a music video to accompany the release of this single which can be viewed at their YouTube Channel - www.youtube.com/user/StonecollarTV?feature=mhee. The German Power Metal band Mystic Prophecy is confirmed for the Prog Power Festival 2012 and share the stage with Symphony X, Pretty Maids, Epica, etc. www.progpowerusa.com. Soul Secret on their brand new website (www.soulsecret.net) reveals artwork and tracklist for their upcoming album Closer To Daylight. Produced by Soul Secret and published by Galileo Records, as previously announced it was mixed and mastered by Markus Teske and the entire artwork was created by Alexandra V Bach. Release date will be announced soon.

 

 

Friday, September 16, 2011

LION MUSIC - NEW RELEASES FROM GRONHOLM & NIELS VEJLYT OUT TODAY: Gronholm - Silent Out Loud / Home to 10 tracks full of infectious vocal melodies over dynamic musical backdrops; Silent Out Loud is an impressive collection of song craft all topped off with a powerful production and mix. Gronholm the band is built around the song writing skills of Mika Gronholm (guitar, bass and keyboards) with vocals once again by Markku Kuikka (Status Minor) and drums from Tom Rask. This core trio of musicians are joined by special guests Billy Sherwood (ex Yes) and Marco Hietala (Nightwish / Tarot) who add some extra dynamics to backing vocals, and in the case of Sherwood help add his trademark lush Yes style vocal harmony sheen to the likes of Out From The Nest amongst others. Whilst the new offering aside from a greater emphasis on guitar has a sound not too dissimilar to its well received predecessor Eyewitness Of Life. The new album sees Mika take a heavier approach to his song writing utilising a down tuned B tuning for all stringed instruments. On the change Mika comments, 'All the songs on 'Silent Out Loud' are tuned down to low B. Sometimes B-tuning is used for roaring vocals or lighting fast guitar parts, but no, not this time. With this tuning I was seeking more power and energy to my riffs. Silent Out Louds first six tracks are all up-tempo numbers where the new tuning is given a fine showing between the heavy packed hard rock riffs with some prog influenced melodies. As the album nears its conclusion we see an instrumental offering in Giant Step which clears the minds palette for the acoustic flavour that is heard on the final 3 tracks with album finale Away also getting an orchestral arrangement. Gronholm - Cross Of Mind: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2hkcklnDD4 Gronholm - Out From The Nest (featuring Billy Sherwood) www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHiwpLqdS9U Full Promo Page With Online Ordering: www.lionmusic.com/cd/silentoutloud.htm. Niels Vejlyt - Sthenic (CD+DVD Dual Pack) / Best known as the guitarist and driving force behind metal outfit Infinity Overture, Danish guitar virtuoso Niels Vejlyt is about to make his mark on the guitar instrumental scene with his powerful solo debut Sthenic on 16th September 2011 fully loaded with a bonus DVD! Already no stranger to guitar fanatics worldwide thanks to numerous instructional DVDs, books and his own online guitar school, Sthenic is a long awaited release for Neils Vejlyts legion of fans worldwide and is also sure to attract many newcomers. With a sound reminiscent at times of instrumental offerings from Jeff Loomis, John Petrucci and Steve Vai etc, Sthenic sees Vejlyt serve up 8 tracks that blend intricate heavy riffs with exciting grooves and chord progressions over which Niels formidable lead technique takes the album over the edge! With a strong core backing band of Jakob Vand (Infinity Overture) and bassist Kris Gildenlow (ex Pain Of Salvation), Niels has taken the live approach of a classic 3 piece and worked from that basic premise adding further textures and rhythm guitars to build a strong wall of sound. This live feel to the music manages to bring a direct sound often lacking in overdub city guitar offerings and also make the album more palatable for even the most hardened cynic. Mixed and mastered by the legendary Tommy Hansen (Helloween, Jorn Lande, Circus Maximus) Sthenic boasts a strong and powerful production which further enhances the listening experience and makes this a true scorcher of a release for guitar fans worldwide. Niels Vejlyt - Die Today: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFalkpZhXa8.   TRIUMPH LIVE ON ROCKLINERADIO.COM - 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF "ALLIED FORCES": Please be advised that the three members of Triumph (Rik Emmett, Gil Moore and Mike Levine) will be live on Rockline Radio with Bob Coburn, Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at 11:30 p.m. (EST) or 8:30 p.m. (Pacific Time) to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Allied Forces. Fans can listen to the satelite broadcast live from Los Angeles, CA at: www.RocklineRadio.com. SINNER / VOODOO CIRCLE TOUR POSTPONED TO DECEMBER: Press Release / "The Sinner "Sins & Voodoo" tour has to be postponed to December. We're terribly sorry, but it's unavoidable since Mat broke a rib incl. a heavy bruise and can not to travel, play and sing for at least four weeks. What a bummer, though... we've just released One Bullet Left, the overall reaction is awesome and we were looking forward to the concerts. "The Three Musclebeers" Alex, Alex & Christof were working on the three-guitar-arrangements, the setlist is done, the on-stage-bar prepared and crew alerted.... But there's already a new set of dates and our agency is currently working on more dates!" OZ METALLERS PEGAZUS HIT THE ROAD: The Australian Metallers of Pegazus have just announced some very special news concerning the touring line-up for the upcoming shows for the "In Metal We Trust" tour. Due to the fact that both Ange Sotiro (Drums) and Cory Betts (Bass) will not be available for touring duties because of serious working-related issues, the band has asked 2 well-known names from the past to join the band for the upcoming shows in Melbourne and Europe! Ange Sotiro will be replaced by no one other than co-founder of Pegazus and former drummer Robbie Stoj! Johnny and Robbie Stoj created Pegazus in 1993 and Robbie was the drummer from it's beginning till 2003, when he had to unfortunately leave the band due to a serious hand injury. In the past few months he has felt very comfortable and back into the groove of being back behind the drum-kit again and will now replace Ange for the upcoming shows. Robbie Stoj comments on the recent events: "Looking forward to getting back to Europe, seeing old and new friends and fans. Great to be back touring, especially with Pegazus. This line up has got a lot to be seen to be believed. These will be really great shows." And the surprises will continue as Cory Betts will be replaced on bass by the former Pegazus vocalist Rob Thompson! After Rob left the band in 2008, he always stayed in close contact with his former band-mates. The band knew that Rob is a great guitarist and bass-player as well, so without any doubts he was asked to replace Cory Betts for the tour. Rob Thompson about his "return" for the upcoming shows: "When I was asked if I was interested to do these shows with Pegazus as their bass player, it was a no-brainer for me. I have always loved the band and it makes no difference to me if I'm the lead singer or the bass player. Being on stage with those 4 guys is all that matters and it's a unique opportunity which I never thought would happen. The rehearsals so far have shown already that this line-up is gonna kick some ass and you'd better not miss this!" It has taken the band 13 years to finally return to Europe and the excitement is overwhelming. Founder and guitarist Johnny Stoj comments on the tour and the two guest-appearances from Robbie Stoj and Rob Thompson: "It's definitely been a long time coming and I can't wait to finally be back in Europe rippin' it up on stage with the boys. Having both Robbie and Rob on this tour is going to be a BLAST!" Also vocalist Justin Fleming is thrilled with all the recent happenings: "I'm really pumped to go to Europe and destroy some PA's over there. I hope the fans will not miss the opportunity to see this very special line-up. For Rob and myself, it will be the first time to hit the stages in Europe and being able to do that with this line-up will be an experience none of us will ever forget." The band has confirmed the following dates for the "In Metal We Trust" Tour: Oct 14, 2011 Central Club Melbourne, Australia Oct 22, 2011 Heavy Metal Maniacs Festival – Manifesto Hoorn, Holland Oct 28, 2011 De Rots Antwerp, Belgium Nov 3, 2011 Livestage Innsbrück, Austria Nov 4, 2011 Rock City Uster, Switzerland Nov 5, 2011 Steel Fest – Estragon Bologna, Italy Nov 9, 2011 Exit-Us Prague, Czech Rep Nov 11, 2011 JUZ, Jugend- und Programmzentrum Kaiserslautern, Germany (w/ Ivory Night) Nov 17, 2011 Garage De Luxe Munich, Germany Nov 18, 2011 Hapa Haole Witten, Germany Nov 19, 2011 Downstairs Worblaufen-Bern, Switzerland (w/ Ivory Night) More tour-dates are expected to be added, so keep a close eye on all official band sites: www.pegazusofficial.com / www.myspace.com/pegazusmusic / www.twitter.com/pegazusmusic. AUSTRIA'S CORNERSTONE LAUNCH NEW RECORD: Press Release; "AOR Pop Rockers Cornerstone from Austria have signed promotion deal with Rock N Growl Promotion for the new album Somewhere In America. Enjoy this unhip, uncool and un-sexy music! Rock, Pop and Indie with a big dose of AOR, big guitars and big vocals, destined for US Airplay!" Tracks: 1. Stay, 2. Rise And Shine, 3. Breathing For You, 4. Right Or Wrong, 5. Like A Stranger, 6. Follow You, Follow Me, 7. Being Unaware, 8. Oblivious, 9. High And Low, 10. Strut. Band: Patricia Hillinger - Vocals, Michael Wachelhofer - Bass, Keyboards and Vocals, Steve Wachelhofer - Guitars and Vocals, Mike Pawlowitsch - Drums and Percussion. Quotes: "Cornerstone caught my attention with their excellent material, an unusual focus on arrangement details, and progressive melodic hooks...sounds like the the recipe for a hit to me!" - Beau Hill, Producer (Alice Cooper, Winger, Europe,...), U.S.A. "This Band is very good and very, very tight." - Dennis Stratton, Iron Maiden/Remus Down Boulevard, U.K. "A fabulous band from Austria!" - Steve Price, Radio ARFM, U.K. Live: 2012-02-17 :: AT- Concert (Raymans, Neunkirchen) 2011-11-26 :: AT- Concert (Artefakt, Mistelbach) 2011-11-25 :: AT- Concert (Mulligans, Deutsch-Wagram) 2011-11-18 :: AT- Concert (Die Werkstatt, Imst) 2011-11-12 :: AT- Concert (Die Werkstatt, Rankweil) 2011-11-11 :: AT- Concert (American Roadhouse, Graz) 2011-11-05 :: AT, Concert (Indian Dreams Saloon, Vienna) 2011-10-01 :: AT, Concert (Mulligans, Deutsch-Wagram) 2011-09-30 :: AT, Concert (Rock the HBA, Brunn am Gebirge) WebLinks: www.cornerstone.co.at / www.youtube.com/cornerstoneaustria / www.reverbnation.com/cornerstoneaustria.   xx LEGENDARY ROCKERS STEELHEART TALKS TO BEROCK RADIO MINIZINE: Melodic Hard Rock Rocker Miljenko Matijevic From Steelheart Talks to BeRock Radio: Georock: I have to say that your last album marked a new beginning for the band, and a musical U-turn. The tracks are characterized by a bluesier, modern 70's hard rock and, I have to say aggressive mood. Why did you decide to change your sound? Steelheart: I changed the sound because I have changed, grown expanded my visions and my writing. As I love the past and will never forget it, I also like the future. Full Interview here: minizine.berock-live.com/html/interviews/pages011/steelheart.html?tag=result;title;0. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - The Cars - North Hall Memphis 1987 WW1 Radio Network (11 incredible tracks...a must have show!) - The Firm - Outtakes (16 tracks of alt. versions and outtakes) - Triumph - Chicago, 8-19-79 (10 track show) Plus these new Video Clips: Vega - Kiss of Life, Uriah Heep - Nail On the Head, Coney Hatch - Shake It, Electric Boys - Angel In An Armoured Suit, Yes - We Can Fly. Join MRX now. FIVE NEW REVIEWS ADDED: New Reviews have been added for John Wetton, Airrace, M.ill.ion, FarCry and Jamie Allen. Check them out. More next week...

 

 

Thursday, September 15, 2011

SCANDINAVIA'S FINEST SECRET THE MAGNIFICENT IS UNLEASHED TO THE UNSUSPECTING MELODIC ROCK CROWD: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of the self-titled debut album from The Magnificent on November 4 in Europe and November 1 in North America. With Scandinavia becoming more and more the promised land for quality Melodic Rock bands, it was just natural that Frontiers would dig deep in the scene to find and expose the best new talents around. Then imagine if two of the most gifted guys from the Prog Metal scene in two different Scandinavian countries decided to join forces in a monumental new band project. The result should be nothing but stunning right? Then get this: Circus Maximus singer extraordinaire Michael Eriksen from Norway and Finnish producer/guitarist Torsti Spoof (of Leverage fame) have decided to join forces together in a new Melodic Rock band aptly called The Magnificent. With the help of musicians including Rolf Pilve on drums, Sami Norbacka on bass and Jukka Karinen on keyboards, The Magnificent offer a monster Melodic Rock album, a record melting the contemporary sound of Brother Firetribe and classic Europe, with obvious hints to the fathers of the genre: Journey and Foreigner. Songwriting contributions also come from Pekka Heino (Brother Firetribe, Leverage), Tomppa Nikulainen (Brother Firetribe), Tuomas Heikkinen (Leverage), Mats Haugen (Circus Maximus), Kimmo Blom (Urban Tale) and others. Torsti Spoof said: "A lot of my musical influences come from the 80`s and I always wanted to make an album in that spirit. Now the dream has came true! This one was truly a joyride. Great musicians, songwriters and an AMAZING Michael Eriksen! I think together we`ve made a perfect blend of the old school songwriting with a big up to date sound" Michael Eriksen added "I grew up in the 80`s and with this album the 80`s are BACK!  Working together with Torsti has been a privilege and I believe together we have created a rock album that will apply to all fans of rock music out there. So turn up the volume and enjoy!" The resulting debut album oozes class, stunning melodies and fabulous arrangements. Eriksen's powerful vocals perfectly complement the spectacular musical landscape created by Spoof and his cohorts. "The Magnificent" is an album that screams for the attention of all Melodic Rock fans. The Magnificent includes the following tracks: Holding On To Your Love; Cheated By Love; Memories; Angel; Satin & Lace; Love`s On The Line; Bullets; Smoke & Fire; Tired Of Dreaming; If It Takes All Night; Lost; Harvest Moon. Cheated By Love can be listened in full on the Frontiers webradio on www.frontiers.it/webradio. The Magnificent: Lead and Background Vocals: Michael Eriksen; Lead Guitars, Keyboards and Background Vocals: Torsti Spoof / With Drums: Rolf Pilve, Bass: Sami Norbacka, Keyboards: Jukka Karinen, Backing vocals: Antony Parviainen. Except on: Memories: Guitar, Bass, Keyboards : Mats Haugen / Drums : Tommy Jacksonville Satin & Lace, Bullets, Harvest Moon: Guitars: Tuomas Heikkinen Tired of Dreaming: Bass: Torsti Spoof.   xxxx WHITESNAKE TO RELEASE MAJOR BOX SET & EXPANDED VERSION OF GOOD TO BE BAD: Whitesnake are to have a box set released on November 7. Titled Box O'Snakes: The Sunburst Years 1978-1982, the box has every studio and live album from the period, two previously unreleased BBC concerts, a limited edition seven inch, a DVD and a 90-page book with new interview and unseen photos. Here's the full track listing: CD One: Trouble (1978) 1. Take Me With You 2. Love To Keep You Warm 3. Lie Down (A Modern Love Song) 4. Day Tripper 5. Nighthawk (Vampire Blues) 6. The Time Is Right For Love 7. Trouble 8. Belgian Tom's Hat Trick 9. Free Flight 10. Don't Mess With Me. CD Two: Live At Hammersmith (1978) 1. Come On 2. Might Just Take Your Life 3. Lie Down 4. Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City 5. Trouble 6. Mistreated CD Three: Lovehunter (1979) 1. Long Way From Home 2. Walking In The Shadow Of The Blues 3. Help Me Thro' The Day 4. Medicine Man 5. You 'N' Me 6. Mean Business 7. Love Hunter 8. Outlaw 9. Rock 'N' Roll Women 10. We Wish You Well CD Four: Ready An' Willing (1980) 1. Fool For Your Loving 2. Sweet Talker 3. Ready An'Willing 4. Carry Your Load 5. Blindman 6. Ain't Gonna Cry No More 7. Love Man 8. Black and Blue 9. She's A Woman CD Five: Live…In The Heart Of The City (1980) 1. Come On 2. Sweet Talker 3. Walking In The Shadow Of The Blues 4. Love Hunter 5. Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City 6. Fool For Your Loving 7. Ain't Gonna Cry No More 8. Ready An' Willing 9. Take Me With You CD Six: Come An' Get It (1981) 1. Come An' Get It 2. Hot Stuff 3. Don't Break My Heart Again 4. Lonely Days, Lonely Nights 5. Wine, Women An' Song 6. Child of Babylon 7. Would I Lie To You 8. Girl 9. Hit An' Run 10. Till The Day I Die CD Seven: Saints & Sinners (1982) 1. Young Blood 2. Rough An' Ready 3. Bloody Luxury 4. Victim Of Love 5. Crying In The Rain 6. Here I Go Again 7. Love An' Affection 8. Rock An' Roll Angels 9. Dancing Girls 10. Saints An' Sinners CD Eight: Live At Reading Rock '79 (1979) 1. Walking In The Shadow Of The Blues 2. Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City 3. Steal Away 4. Belgian Tom's Hat Trick 5. Mistreated/Soldier Of Fortune 6. Love Hunter 7. Breakdown CD Nine: Live At Reading Rock '80 (1980) 1. Sweet Talker 2. Walking In The Shadow Of The Blues 3. Ain't Gonna Cry No More 4. Love Hunter 5. Mistreated/Soldier Of Fortune 6. Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City 7. Fool For Your Loving DVD Promo Videos 1978-1982 TV Performances Extra Feature: Official Bootleg Live at the Capital Centre, Washington, USA 1980 Snakebite EP (1978) 33rpm seven inch white vinyl - Side One 1. Bloody Mary 2. Steal Away Side Two 1. Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City 2. Come On. Find out more at www.whitesnake.com. An expanded updated version of Whitesnake's Still Good To Be Bad, is out this week as a Japanese import, featuring: The CD+DVD Digipak Special Edition contains a 15 Track audio CD featuring newly recorded, remixed & remastered versions of Ready To Rock, If You Want Me, All I Want Is You and Dog, originally featured as bonus tracks from the Live In The Shadow Of The Blues double live album Plus a Bonus DVD that includes the music videos 'Ready To Rock' and 'Lay Down Your Love', a rare and unseen 8 song Live Acoustic Performance with David Coverdale and Doug Aldrich at the Cutting Room In NY in 2008, the 'Good To Be Bad' Interview by Eddie Trunk and the 'Live In The Shadow Of The Blues' EPK. The DVD also includes a slideshow of live photographs from 2008-2009 Good To Be Bad World Tour featuring the Summer Rain Acoustic Version. Click on album cover to order from CD Japan.   MITCH MALLOY DEBUTS 4 NEW TRACKS: AOR favourite Mitch Malloy samples four new tracks from his upcoming rock record via his Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/pages/Mitch-Malloy-Fans/367824767907?v=app_178091127385. Mitch states: "I am very happy to present to you some of the new "Mitch Malloy II" CD. The first song "I'm the one" has a choir on the end lead by Jeff Scott Soto, Bruno Ravel (Danger Danger) and Brett Walker, and myself. If you would like to sing along and be on the CD simply record yourself singing the very ending and send an mp3 to pranamusic@yahoo.com there will be no financial compensation for this but you can say you sang on my CD. We will be posting the names of the I'm the one Choir on this page. Happy listening and happy singing..." The CD will be released digitally soon and available in hard copy at Firefest 2011 in October. VAIN FINISHING NEW ALBUM "ENOUGH ROPE": MusicBuyMail.eu is pleased to announce the release of a new Vain album entitled Enough Rope on October 28. Davy Vain has a list of accomplishments under his belt few artists today can rival. Hailing from the San Francisco Bay Area, Davy began his rise as the frontman/songwriter/producer for the band Vain. Their debut record, "No Respect" (originally released by Island Records), continues to receive critical acclaim worldwide having landed them on the cover of such notable music publications as Kerrang! and BAM. It is clearly evident from the praise garnered from the music press and more importantly other musicians, that Davy has an incredible knack for writing great songs. As the music industry progressed and changed, Davy explored his creativity and musicianship even further. Remaining true to his musical integrity each of his recordings is filled with catchy hooks and choruses, rampant with melodies, and loaded with fresh and creative guitar sounds. Davy's voice is one of the most unique, hypnotic and original voices in rock and roll. It invokes and inspires you with a style that is entirely his own. His recorded and live performances are electric, raw, and infused with a power and magic that is as rare today as it was when Davy first started playing out. The new amazing album "Enough Rope" follows on seamlessly from the glory days of their debut "No Respect". Even the upcoming film "Rock of Ages" with Tom Cruise pays respect to Vain by featuring posters and music of this all time classic band. Tracklist: 01. Greener 02. Enough Rope 03. Stray Kitten Burns 04. Hot Stage Lights 05. Distance Of Love 06. Cindy 07. Treasure Girl 08. Solid Gold 09. Worship You 10. Vain 11. Triple X.   Music Buy Mail is proud to announce three new titles: Stala & So "It Is So" featuring ex-members of Lordi and Hanoi Rocks! Founded in 1997, Stala & So. is known for melodic rock tunes and a positive attitude and is fronted by their charismatic vocalist, Stala. Other musical projects sadly forced the band to be on hold for a while but now they are back... even more colorful than before! The 70's and 80's glam rock bands, such as Sweet, T-Rex and Ziggy Stardust -era David Bowie, have had the strong influence to the band's image. Stala & So. is making music professionally and also having fun with it. In the beginning of 2011 the band took part in the Finnish Eurovision Song Contest under the name of Stala & So. They made their way to the national finals with nine other artists and performed on the live tv show in front of nearly a million viewers. There is also one ESC 2006 winner in the band's line up. Stala & So. is now ready to go with their debut album, It Is So.. The band has written, recorded and produced the album themselves! Holy Force "Holy Force" feat. members of Manowar, Yngwie Malmsteen and Symphony X Ango Chen is an established guitar player from Taiwan and has collaborated with musicians like Mike Vescera (Ex.-Yngwie Malmsteen, Joe Stump, Loudness vocalist) and more. He is the founder of his band named Holy Force feat. A couple of well known artists. Mark Boals is noted most for his work with Yngwie J. Malmsteen and he is the founder and vocalist for the band Ring of Fire and serves as the vocalist of Danish neoclassical/progressive metal act Royal Hunt and the US progressive band Seven the Hardway. Mike LePond is a member of Symphony X and worked with other bands such as Seven Witches, Operatika, Chakrah, Architect, and Daniel Fries. Kenny (Rhino) Earl joined Manowar and recorded "The Triumph of Steel" album with them, their best selling album to date. Touring Europe multiple times and Japan between 1992-1995. Rhino left Manowar in 1995 to pursue personal interests and played in Holyhell and Angels of Babylon. HOLY FORCE is playing a nice blend of epic melodic metal and should attract all fans of that genre! The Wheel "The Wheel" is music for fans of Led Zeppelin, Free & Van Halen Combining blistering guitar riffs from 70's references like Led Zeppelin, Free and Van Halen they also give a nod to 80's acts like Badlands and 90's acts like Alice In Chains and Soundgarden. The Wheel takes rock history into our time with great pride, and they're playing like they are an army of classic rock soldiers. Since forming in 2007, they have been recording their debut album while building a name in the live circuit. Playing alongside UFO, Ken Hensley and The Quireboys at festivals has gained them a reputation of a rock solid live band. Now lend your ears to their debut album, and if you are a true rock 'n' roll fan there should be elements from many of your favorite bands right there. The Wheel has just started to roll… All releases are available at www.musicbuymail.eu and all other fine rock shops around the world! ICONIC TONIC RELEASE 'ZOMBIE BABY' VIDEO: Iconic Tonic release official video for the track Zombie Baby from their upcoming debut Rock And Roll. As previously announced, Rock And Roll is set for a November 8th release via Jamsync Music. Track Listing: 1. MMXI 2. Out Loud 3. I Can't Breathe 4. Paramount 5. Zombie Baby 6. Lost At Sea 7. Bring You Down 8. Time To Be With You 9. St. Abbey 10. The One 11. Iconic Tonic 12. I Will Love You. More information on Iconic Tonic at: www.iconictonic.net / jamsyncmusic.com. Check out the video at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmZQzNS-9Sw.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Renato Abella is a musician based in New York, USA. His single with Dave Bickler (Vocals, ex-Survivor) and Brad Gillis (guitars, Night Ranger) can be sampled and purchased at: www.renatoabella.com. Westcoast rock group State Cows have a new single and video. Check out Hard Goodbye at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqcAyTMNI58 / www.statecows.com. November 21 is shaping up to be a good day for modern rock fans with new studio albums due from Nickelback (Here And Now) and American Idol finalist Daughtry. Spanish melodic rock band Guru will tour the following dates: 11 October - Santander (Sala Black Bird), 12 October - Bilbao, 13 October - Barcelona (Museu del Rock). A new audio interview online with TSO/Savatage guitarist Chris Caffery online at The Musician's Voice (www.themusiciansvoice.com). In the 20-minute interview, Chris talks mostly about his new hot sauce venture, with a sauce called Tears Of The Sun. There is also music-related chat, where Chris talks about his ongoing solo career, the continuing TSO juggernaut, as well as his thoughts on Savatage - of whom he says he'd love to get back together. AXEL RUDI PELL TOUR 2012: German guitarist Axel Rudi Pell hits the road for the following dates, in support of his new The Ballads IV album, which will be released in Germany on September 23rd 2011, in Europe on September 26th 2011 and in the USA/Canada on September 27th 2011. 20.04. D-Hannover – Capitol 21.04. NL-Weert – De Bosuil 22.04. GB-London - Underworld 24.04. D-Langen – Neue Stadthalle Langen 25.04. D-Saarbrücken - Garage 27.04. D-Nürnberg – Hirsch 28.04. D-Kaufbeuren – All-Karthalle 29.04. CH-Pratteln – Z7 01.05. D-Erfurt – HsD 02.05. D-Berlin – Columbia Club 04.05. D-Bochum - Zeche 05.05. D-Bochum - Zeche Video for the single "Hallelujah" now online: www.youtube.com/user/spv#p/u/0/wKMP81DVLLk.   SHOWCASE UPDATED: Two new CD Showcases online today for Escape Music - the great new Shy album (October 7 release) and the new hard rocking Gary John Barden album (October 21 release). Check them out.

 

 

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

TYKETTO LIVE - AROUND THE WORLD ONLINE: For Tyketto fans world wide, especially those that were never able to see the band live, now's your chance. On Saturday, November 26th at 3:00pm EST, we will be globally broadcasting a live webcast from the New York area. This show will feature the original line up of Danny Vaughn, Brooke St. James, Michael Clayton and Jimi Kennedy....onstage together for the first time in years, along with our fifth member, Bobby Lynch on keyboards. By now, word may have gotten around to you that Tyketto are working on their first new studio album in fifteen years. In the middle of all of that, we started talking about whether or not we would tour and where we would be able to perform. It's always been a real sore spot to the band that there are fans all over the world that we have never been able to play for. But now we can, and you can be a part of it! It doesn't matter where you live. As long as you have a computer with an Internet connection, you are invited to a front row seat at an exclusive Tyketto concert.. (And you don't even have to leave your house to attend!) What makes this show so special is that YOU are all a major part of it. We will have live chat, email Q&A and we welcome your set list requests. This is a 100% fan interactive concert; the likes of which we have never attempted. As it's LIVE television.....anything can happen....we're sure there will be plenty of surprises! Here's how it works: Tickets are $15.00 (USD) for each user and are on sale NOW! Paypal your payment to: Scott107Pro@aol.com. You will receive an access code within 5-7 days (email us immediately if you do not). At 3:00pm on Saturday, November 26th, simply click on this link and enter your access code- - www.totalwebcasting.com/live/107productions/20111127.htm. Click here to check our airtime vs your local time: www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/converter.html. Enter 3:00pm New York Time, USA. The broadcast will air for approximately ninety minutes. Come and be a part of this worldwide audience with us! Band website: www.Tyketto.de / Facebook: www.facebook.com/home.php#!/group.php?gid=401625990701. STRANGEWAYS - WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE: THE DVD: For the very first time the UK / American AOR Gods Strangeways can now finally be seen live in concert on DVD. Recorded at the reunion show at Firefest 2010 in front of an adoring crowd, Terry, Ian, Jim, Munch and Warren combined some of the greatest AOR tracks ever written such as 'Love Lies Dying', 'Only A Fool' and 'Never Going To Lose It' with some brand new tracks from the comeback album 'Perfect World', such as the title track, 'Borderline' and the monstrous 'Bushfires'. For those that have waited 21 years, this is finally your chance to see the band in all their glory on stage for the first time since 1989, and re-live what was for band and fans a truly emotional homecoming in front of a sold out Rock City, Nottingham. Directed by Bernhard Kellerer of Transistor Pictures, whose previous list of credits include producing DVDs for FM, Harem Scarem, TNT, Bonfire and Treat amongst others, 'Where Do We Go From Here' is yet another stellar achievement for Kellerer and his team who are fast gaining a big reputation for delivering high quality live and promotional videos. We urge you to show your support, not just for Firefest but for Strangeways, and grab a copy of 'Where Do We Go From Here' by pre ordering on line from the Firefest Webshop at www.thefirefest.com and www.rocktopia.net. Pre-ordering will be available from Monday, September 12th and orders will ship on or before October 1st. This is a limited edition of 1000 copies worldwide and features a magnificent jet black cover with silver ink artwork on the first 500. There will be no reprints, and once they are gone … they are gone. Be sure to grab yourself a copy of what will surely become a treasured collectors item. Watch samples on YouTube: Official DVD trailer - www.youtube.com/watch?v=SErIP4AXdsI / A full track taken from the DVD - www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAmJniUMnBg&feature=channel_video_title.   TEN NOW A LITTLE LIGHTER ON MEMBERS: UK rockers Ten have lost three members this week. Keyboardist Paul Hodson was the first to depart, issuing this statement: "I have left Ten. The reasons for this are few and I leave with many fond memories of my time with the band. I wish them all the best for the future." Now there is further news that guitarist Neil Fraser and bassist Mark Sumner have also left the band. Now this update taken from: www.fleetwoodstock.info: "Following on a personnel change within Ten, the organisers of FleetwoodStock Music Festival wish to confirm the Ten show will still be happening on the 5th November 2011. Ten will reveal their new line up on the night. Gary Hughes and John Halliwell are looking forwards to introducing their new line to you. Remember, remember the 5th of November!" JEREMEY FREDERICK SINGLE "STAY" NOW AVAILABLE ON iTUNES: Singer/songwriter Jeremey Frederick today released Stay, the second single from the upcoming CD Every Little Thing. The single is immediately available for download on iTunes. The mid-tempo ballad, written by Jeremey Frederick, features Vic Rivera on guitar and drums, Eric Ragno on piano, and Jeremey on vocals and bass guitar. Today also marks the kickoff of the Kickstarter.com campaign for "Every Little Thing," the full length CD due in November 2011. The campaign is a crowd-sourcing effort to raise funds to finish the production and distribution of the release. Visit the campaign's site at www.kickstarter.com/projects/jeremey/jeremey-frederick-every-little-thing. Jeremey Frederick performs over 150 shows yearly with the nationally touring tribute act Frontiers. He is a member of ASCAP and President of Our Quinnessential Music Group, an independent music publishing company. For more information, please visit www.kickstarter.com/profile/jeremey, www.jeremeyfrederick.com, or www.facebook.com/JeremeyMusic. JUDAS PRIEST ANNOUNCE THE CHOSEN FEW: Some of the biggest names of the hard rock/heavy metal world picked their favorite Judas Priest songs for the band's forthcoming compilation album, The Chosen Few (out October 11th via Legacy/Sony) – and the result is one of the more interesting Priest tracklistings ever put together. Artists who took part in the 17-track strong The Chosen Few included Ozzy Osbourne, Slash, Metallica's James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich, Alice Cooper and Slipknot's Corey Taylor, among others. "This is a collection of songs chosen by our friends and respected peers," Priest frontman Rob Halford tells Rolling Stone. "So we hope all the metal maniacs out there will rock out to the tunes enjoyed by metal legends." Also included in the set are explanations from each artist about their selection, including Taylor gushing that Priest's early MTV anthem, "You've Got Another Thing Coming," caused the group to become "the blueprint for the ultimate heavy metal band." Elsewhere, Osbourne finds himself bewildered by a high-pitched note sung by Halford at the beginning of "The Ripper" ("Fuckin hell! That note is probably just below what only dogs can hear"). Judas Priest will launch their farewell Epitaph tour in the U.S. on October 12th in San Antonio, with the latest confirmed set of dates running through December 3rd in Biloxi, Mississippi. The Chosen Few tracklisting: 1) Diamonds And Rust (1977) - chosen by Joe Elliott (Def Leppard) 2) Dissident Aggressor (1977) - chosen by Steve Vai 3) Exciter (1978) - chosen by Accept 4) Beyond The Realms Of Death (1978) - chosen by Lars Ulrich (Metallica) 5) Delivering The Goods (1979) - chosen by Kerry King (Slayer) 6) The Green Manalishi (with the Two-Pronged Crown) (1979) - chosen by David Coverdale (Whitesnake) & Randy Blythe (Lamb of God) 7) The Ripper (1979) - chosen by Ozzy Osbourne 8) Victim Of Changes (1979) - chosen by James Hetfield (Metallica) 9) Breaking The Law (1980) - chosen by Lemmy (Motorhead) 10) Rapid Fire (1980) - chosen by Vinnie Paul (Pantera & Hell Yeah) 11) Grinder (1980) - chosen by Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society) 12) Living After Midnight (1980) - chosen by Alice Cooper & Geezer Butler (Black Sabbath) 13) Screaming For Vengeance (1982) - chosen by Slash (Guns n Roses) 14) You've Got Another Thing Coming (1982) - chosen by Klaus Meine (Scorpions) & Corey Taylor (Slipknot) 15) The Sentinel (1984) - chosen by Chris Jericho 16) Turbo Lover (1986) - chosen by Jonathan Davis (Korn) 17) Painkiller (1990) - chosen by Joe Satriani For more information, visit: www.judaspriest.com.

 

 

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

SIX YEARS IN THE MAKING… AT LONG LAST MECCA II UNDENIABLE IS SCHEDULED FOR RELEASE!: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Mecca's anticipated second album Undeniable on November 4 in Europe and November 29 in North America. Six years in the making Undeniable is the culmination of hard work, blood, sweat and tears. Rewind to 2002: the Melodic Rock community is taken by storm by the debut album of a new band named Mecca. Formed by vocalist Joe Vana, he enlisted, among others, the services of former Toto members David Hungate (bass) and Fergie Frederiksen on vocals and close friend and former Survivor founding member Jim Peterik, who contributed masterfully to the songwriting and production of the album. Mecca created a sonic treasure bringing the energy to drive diamond hard rockers and the finesse to create lush power ballads, all with the texture that, until now, only super-groups such as Journey, Toto or Foreigner could provide. Amazing press responses blessed the album's release and Joe Vana soon started putting together plans for a follow up album. "I wanted a BAND sound, like the old days where all the guys played together in the room" tells Joe. "We came very close to doing just that... PLUS, I wanted an album Jim Peterik would hear and be proud that he worked so hard mentoring me for so many years. I had a challenge". Songwriting started in 2005 between Vana and Swedish guitarist Christian Wolff. In 2007 things really took a ground breaking turn with the songwriting masterpieces that Vana wrote with Swedish Producer/Songwriter/Guitarist Tommy Denander. Vana said: "The writing synergy between Tommy and I has been amazing, we think so much alike in terms of melody and space but sounds very different melodically than what we both have done separately, so it truly is a union of ideas...". The musical direction soon showed that new heights in Melodic Rock music could be reached. "Since Tommy and Christian were my co-writers" continues Vana "I had parts of theirs from when we wrote the tunes that were stellar and it integrated wonderfully". Several problems created bumps in the road, including the death of Vana's longtime friend and co-producer / engineer Bryan Mitchell which made the completion of the recording process extremely slow. Joe explains: "It took a lot of time to build the right team to produce with me, Mark Alano and Chuck Macak and to get the right combination of guys. I had an opportunity to hand pick a band and I was not going to ruin that! I know I was getting killed on the internet, but I needed to make sure it was ALL correct. The music had to be able to carry the melodies and the lyrical content I had written, this album had to flow correctly and I had a vision sonically I wanted as well... it was not an easy road.... and as far as the songs themselves, it is the best writing Tommy Denander and Christian Wolff have done. They were SO EASY to write with and we make a GREAT team!". Vana enlisted the talents of session masters such as Pat Mastellotto (King Crimson, Mr Mister), Tony Levin (Peter Gabriel, King Crimson), along with Denander and Wolff. His core band was also created around Rick Vitek on drums, Brian Moritz on keyboards, Wally Hustin on bass, Eric Ragno on keyboards, Mark Alano on guitar and Joe's ace in the hole....his son Joey on guitars and backing vocals. Fast forward to 2011. Mecca II - Undeniable is finally completed and delivered. The results are breathtaking. According to Vana: "This is a thinking man's record with a lot of Chicago AOR, Prog and a good dose of West Coast thrown in! You can listen to the album 10 times, and will hear different things each time...". An album which perfectly melts the outstanding High-Tech AOR approach of Mr. Mister's "Welcome to the Real World" to the commercial sheer brilliance of Toto's "The Seventh One". Oh and... the good news is that Mecca III is underway! If Mecca I was born to unveil the treasures of the Melodic Rock genre to the unsuspecting public, then Mecca II Undeniable sets in stone the gospel of this music with stunning arrangements and unbelievable melodies. Mecca is now here to stay....get converted to their music! Undeniable tracklisting includes: Perfect World; Closing Time; 10 life; Life's Too Short; I Know; Did It For Love; From The Start; Deceptive Cadence; W2W; Undeniable; As I Walk Alone. Mecca - Joe Vana: Vocals, Joey Vana: Guitars, Brian Moritz: Keyboards, Paul Pisciotto: Synthesizers, Wally Hustin: Bass, Rick Vitek: Drums, Mark Alano: Guitars.   xx STYX ANNOUNCE REGENERATION VOLUME I & II AS A DOUBLE-DISC SET THROUGH EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT: Superstar rock group Styx announced today that it will release Regeneration Volume I & II as a double-disc set through Eagle Rock Entertainment on October 4. Originally released independently through Styx' web site and sold on tour, the two discs will now be available commercially for the first time. The new package consists of past Styx hits re-recorded in new digital versions by the current lineup of Styx, which features classic members Tommy Shaw and James "JY" Young along with keyboardist/singer Lawrence Gowan, drummer Todd Sucherman and bassist Ricky Phillips. Founding member Chuck Panozzo also played bass on some tracks. The two discs touch on Styx classics like "The Grand Illusion," "Come Sail Away," "Renegade" and "Fooling Yourself," along with deeper album cuts like "Sing for the Day," "Lorelei" and "Snowblind." There is one new Styx studio track entitled "Difference in the World," as well as two new Styx recordings of "Coming of Age" and "High Enough," two hits originally recorded by Tommy Shaw's supergroup Damn Yankees. Eagle Rock Entertainment previously released Styx: One With Everything, a DVD and Blu-ray filmed with The Contemporary Youth Orchestra Of Cleveland. In December Eagle Rock will release a new Styx live project, The Grand Illusion/Pieces Of Eight – Live, on DVD/CD, DVD, and Blu-ray. That footage was filmed last fall during a tour that had the band performing two of its classic albums - 1977's breakthrough The Grand Illusion and 1978's Pieces of Eight - in their entirety. Continue reading on Examiner.com   MEGACHEF - ROCK N' ROLL COOKWARE: Megachef Limited is proud to announce a brand new range of Rock n' Roll Cookware now available at www.megachef.co.uk. In the ever expanding and fashionable world of cooking, Megachef brings a whole new range of quality cooking products to the table. A huge slice of our products come on a quirky bed of jest with a twist of humour, a pinch of parody, all neatly wrapped up in a tongue of cheek. Our other products are just as cool and practical, and a complete necessity for any aspiring cook, chef or indeed general dogsbody, with a passion for music and fun. We will develop and expand the Megachef range and stay true to our word: For Those About To Cook, We Supply You! For all press, business, wholesale, promotion and supply enquiries, please contact Megachef sales@megachef.co.uk and one of our team will get back to you.. WebLink: www.megachef.co.uk.   ALICE COOPER GAINS A DAUGHTER ON WELCOME 2 MY NIGHTMARE: Shock Rocker Alice Cooper's new album, Welcome 2 My Nightmare, see's the Hall of Famer resurrecting his alter ego and updating the malcontent's nightmares in the current day. The album, written mainly by Cooper and producer Bob Ezrin, also includes plenty of special guests including the three remaining members of the Alice Cooper Band, Dennis Dunaway, Neal Smith and Micheal Bruce, former Welcome to My Nightmare guitarists Steve Hunter and Dick Wagner and pop Diva Ke$ha. Cooper admits that he Ke$ha made him blush in the studio, bringing out fatherly advice for the scantily dressed 22-year-old, "I'm kind of like her dad. She comes in the studio and she is wearing next to nothing and I'm like,'Put a sweater on.' I have two daughters and I'm always telling them that. Bob Ezrin does the same thing. Bob and I really are like her two dads." Cooper also admits he is trying to get the Diva to leave pop music behind and become a rocker, "I met Ke$ha at the Grammys and she never looked, to me, like a Diva, she looked like a rock singer. I told her, 'Eventually, everyone leaves the Divas. There is no way you can have a long lasting career as no one ends up loving the Divas forever. However, everybody loves a rock band.' I am trying to talk her into getting a real rock band behind her." Read the entire interview at: www.classicrockrevisited.com/interviewAliceCooper.htm and be sure to pick up Welcome 2 My Nightmare this week as it hits the shelves across the nation! VERSAILLES RECORDS' OZZY TRIBUTE TO FEATURE CURRENT/FORMER MEMBERS OF MOTLEY CRUE, KISS, MEGADETH, BLACK SABBATH: Versailles Records is excited to announce plans for the spring, 2012 release of 'No More Tears: A Millennium Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne.' Featuring a collection of hits and fan favorites covering every era of Ozzy's solo and Black Sabbath catalog, this album will feature current/former members of Black Sabbath, Motley Crue, Kiss, Slaughter, Night Ranger, Ozzy Osbourne Band, Badlands, Alice Cooper Band, The Cult, LA Guns, Warrant, Dokken, Steve Vai band, Spinal Tap, David Lee Roth band, Santana, and a host of others to be announced. Along with the latter name artists, the label is keeping in its tradition of featuring a number of adding a limited number of cover song slots with original Millennium metal bands influenced by Ozzy. Interested bands should email Versaillesrecords2006@yahoo.com with a web link (Facebook, Myspace, YouTube, etc). MORE WHIRLD LIVE RELEASE FROM TRANSATLANTIC: Transatlantic played a very successful and much talked about European tour in 2010. For all the fans who were not able to attend one of those unique concerts and for those who would like to re-live this mind-blowing experience some of the shows were recorded. The material was so overwhelming that – after the release of "Whirld Tour 2010 – An Evening With Transatlantic" - the band as well as the label decided to release more great material for the fans and prog music lovers out there. This time it comes as a 3 CD + 2 DVD Digipak including some nice bonus material. Transatlantic "More Never Is Enough" Live 3 CD + 2 DVD Digipak (Insideout Music / EMI) G/A/S release date: October 21st 2011 Europe release date: October 24th 2011 Northamerica release date: October 25th 2011 The band stated: "Another 5 Disc Live extravaganza from the Prog Supergroup Transatlantic? Unbelievable!!! Sometimes when you are on tour you have the best gigs when the cameras aren't rolling. Such was the case with the Transatlantic Whirld Tour one fateful night in Manchester, England. It was the last concert of a long tour and as Rich Mouser said, as we came off stage, "Man, you guys really nailed it tonight!" So, this is the complete audio from Manchester, spread over 3 CDs, as well as a beautifully shot 2 DVD compilation from the famed, sold out concert in Tilburg, The Netherlands. Also included are great and hilarious excerpts from other gigs, featuring Mike Portnoy stage diving in Cologne, packaged in a gorgeous 5 Disc Digi-book. This is one the fans are going to love!!!" Track Listing: CD 1 Whirlwind (01:19:45) CD 2 All Of The Above (31:57) We All Need Some Light (10:23) Duel With The Devil (28:48) CD 3 Bridge Across Forever (06:03) Stranger In Your Soul (33:17) DVD 1 Whirlwind (01:21:00) DVD 2 All Of The Above (29:20) We All Need Some Light (09:56) Duel With The Devil (28:53) Bridge Across Forever (05:58) Stranger In Your Soul (33:56) Return Of The Giant Hogweed (09:05). Stranger Jams (bonus) Cologne - Live Music Hall (May 8th 2010) (06:03) Stuttgart - Longhorn (May 9th 2010) (06:35) Esch Alzette - Rockhal (May 10th 2010) (05:34) Pratteln - Z7 (May 18th 2010) (07:44). Line Up Info: Roine Stolt - Electric Guitar, Vocals; Pete Trewavas – Bass, Vocals; Neal Morse – Keyboards, Acoustic Guitar, Vocals; Mike Portnoy – Drums and Vocals; Daniel Gildenlow - Keyboards, Guitars, Vocals and Percussion. Transatlantic online: www.transatlanticweb.com / www.myspace.com/transatlanticprog / www.facebook.com/transatlanticmusic.   MRR PRE-ORDERS - RIVERDOGS & CHRIS ANTBLAD SHIPPED: All pre-orders for Riverdogs and Chris Antblad have been shipped ahead of their September 30 official release date. All other recent orders thru the MR/MRR Store have also been shipped. Can't wait to hear some feedback - but do me and the artists a favor and don't upload to the internet. It seems everything leaks early and appears online at some stage, it would be nice to make these titles an exception. Please! Rick Springfield tribute album is up next - details shortly and then it's into 'new release hibernation' for MRR until 2012. There will be announcements on current MRR artists and their updated plans, plus news on certain aspects of MRR distribution and digital news too. Thanks to all for the support thus far. A couple of cool releases lined up for 2012 at this stage!

 

 

Monday, September 12, 2011

ON SEPTEMBER 8TH 1986...FM RELEASED INDISCREET: On September 8th 1986 FM released their first album INDISCREET. Recorded in the hedonistic atmosphere of Ibiza and the more earthy surroundings of North London and released on the Portrait/Epic label, the album defined a genre with unforgettable songs such as "That Girl" and "Frozen Heart". Who would have thought back then that in 2010 Planet Rock Radio listeners would vote Frozen Heart one of the greatest AOR songs of all time? 25 years have passed but the songs from Indiscreet still hold a special place in everyone's hearts. FM have a year-long celebration planned with the launch of Indiscreet 25Live - for the next 12 months the 25th Anniversary of Indiscreet's release will be celebrated with regular competitions to win FM merchandise, releases and memorabilia and much more. The new dedicated 'Indiscreet 25Live' page on the FM website will be the place for fans to congregate for all the latest Indiscreet-related news and to share their memories. The party kicks off in style with a competition for the new range of 'Indiscreet 25Live' T-shirts. A big thank you goes out to you all for your support over the years! Video – FM "I Belong To The Night" Live in Madrid April 16 2011: www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3IwdtzJqIQ. WebLinks: www.fmofficial.com / www.fmofficial.com/fmofficial/25_live.html / www.facebook.com/FMofficial.   VAN HALEN BAN BAD KARAOKE VERSION OF JUMP: With nothing better to do (like release an album, or set up a tour), Van Halen have instead spent time getting a "bad" karaoke version of their hit Jump removed from an upcoming new episode of An Idiot Abroad. The show's producer Ricky Gervais comments to The Sun, speaking at the launch of the new Sky1 series An Idiot Abroad: The Bucket List: "The show, devised by Ricky and comedy partner Stephen Merchant, features their pal Karl Pilkington, 38, being sent to undertake a list of challenges you should do before you die. One of them is to perform with an American Glee-style chorus club. Karl sang Jump by rockers Van Halen. But his rendition was so bad the band tried to BAN it from being broadcast. Ricky said Karl was shaking before the performance and messed up the words. Ricky added: "Van Halen are trying to put a stop on it, because it is that bad. But Sky have got a blanket agreement so we can put it out in England. But we can't put it out in America or on the DVD." Sad. No sense of humor at all... OUTLOUD RELEASE LOVE CATASTROPHE ON ITUNES IN NORTH AMERICA WITH EXCLUSIVE BONUS TRACK: OUTLOUD, the stellar melodic hard rock band who garnered international acclaim from their debut self-titled release worldwide on Frontiers Records in 2009, and has been making noise across Europe this year with their sophomore release Love Catastrophe, now releases the new album digitally on iTunes and select other digital download outlets in North America. This release contains an exclusive bonus track, entitled Mr. Long Gone. Says vocalist Chandler: "This tune was recorded during the Love Catastrophe sessions and has sort of a Mr. Big vibe. I love this song and we thought it a great addition to the North American digital release. It will most likely appear on a CD release sometime in the future." In addition to Itunes, the album can be purchased (with the bonus track) at the following digital download stores: Myspace Music, MediaNet, Zune, Rhapsody, Nokia, Amazon, Emusic, Napster & IHeartRadio. Listen to and purchase the new album on Itunes right here: itunes.apple.com/us/album/love-catastrophe/id458630576. Additionally, Outloud has unveiled their official website, www.outloud-rock.com. Here you can check out their music and all of their official videos, get the latest news, exclusive photos and downloads, OUTLOUD merchandise such as T-shirts and caps, and see a new instructional guitar video for a different song every month! This month's song is "We Run"! ROGUE MALE'S NEW SINGLE – LIAR : Rogue Male's brand new single Liar is now available as a free download exclusively from the band's website: www.rm2kmusic.com and the video to 'Liar' will also be released shortly. Rogue Male will play three exclusive UK shows as they continue to write their new album, which is scheduled for release in 2012. 29 September: London, Purple Turtle 6 October: Birmingham, Roadhouse 8 October: Saltash, Livewire For all the latest news and information, please visit: www.rm2kmusic.com. NEW JOHN WAITE ONLINE DESTINATIONS: Two new websites for John Waite have just come online. johnwaite.nl focusses mainly on the European angle and fans, but it offcourse will share any news from John Waite or gigs in The USA. During the next weeks we will continue to add more interesting content for this official John Waite Website. States JW: "The best! A new site comes into being on Friday. Johnwaitethesinger.com - It will be the official site so check it out. Wouter will still be at the head of the European site so the two together have a shot at world domination!! (ha ha ha!)!" INTERVIEW BRIEFS: South Wales' GTFM Rockshow welcomes Deep Purple's Don Airey as the live guest on a special extended rock show this coming Thursday - 15th September at 9pm UK time. Please email questions for Don to rockshow@gtfm.co.uk and check out tuning/live streaming options and the shows interview archive at: gtfmrockshow.wordpress.com. White Widdow interviewed at: rockeyez.com/interviews/2011-08-white-widdow/int-2011-08-bmr-white-widdow-jules-millis.html. John Pratt interview: www.rockrealms.com/interrogation/johnpratt.php. Greece's Rockpages caught up with NIGHT RANGER drummer Kelly Keagy for an interview that was naturally revolved around the band's latest record "Somewhere In California". Keagy added that he doesn't rule out a reunion with the original NIGHT RANGER line-up. Here's the excerpt: Rockpages.gr: "Somewhere in California" must be the best Night Ranger album since "Man In Motion". Was it something made consciously by the band? I mean, did you, Jack and Brad sat down and said "let's make an 80s sounding record"? Kelly Keagy: We didn't really intend to do that…it just came about when we sat down and started writing the songs. It was natural for us…it's funny what people are saying about the 80s sound…from my point of view, it sounds incredibly modern. That's how modern hard rock should sound like. Rockpages.gr: Yeah, but it's still a more traditional sounding record than your previous album "Hole In The Sun"… Kelly Keagy: That's correct. I think that you are referring to the tuning of the guitars…the tuning was lower on the last album. I think that was the main difference but you're right. Rockpages.gr: Kelly, I want you to be honest with me. Do you ever think of doing one last show or even a record with Alan and Jeff? Kelly Keagy: I think what happened and it kinda fits with your last question…the way things turned out with Jeff (Watson) and Alan (Fitzerald) was really a natural evolution for the band. Jeff decided that he no longer wanted to be a part of Night Ranger and Alan wanted to work more as a musician. As far as doing another show…well, it may happen! Who knows? I am not gonna close that door because after all we started Night Ranger with these guys. Read The Full Interview on: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=6140&type=1&lang=EN. SEAN KELLY TO RELEASE WHERE THE WOOD MEETS THE WIRE: Sean Kelly (Crash Kelly, Helix, Gilby Clarke, Nelly Furtado) will release his third solo guitar album Where The Wood Meets The Wire on September 13, 2011 via Opening Day Entertainment Group/Universal (EOne in the US). The album feature solo classical guitar works re-imagined with modern production techniques. Kelly describes the album as "A bridge between Classical, Rock, and World music." The album also features an arrangment of the Gowan classic "A Criminal Mind", and a version of Schubert's "Ave Maria" featuring the Bel Canto vocals of Brian Vollmer of Helix. The album can be pre-ordered here: www.openingday.com/sean-kelly-where-the-wood-meets-the-wire-cd/ A promo video featuring the track Adelita can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7iGVK-IadI&feature=youtu.be. MRX UPDATED: Just a couple of new additions to MRX today. Those being: - Bon Jovi - Early Bon Jovi Rehearsal (18 Tracks) - MSG - Assault Attack Studio Demo (with Cozy Powell)(11 Trackds) MRX Membership Details.

 

 

Tuesday, September 06, 2011

JOURNEY - NEAL SCHON & ARNEL PINEDA INTERVIEWED: Journey guitarist Neal Schon and vocalist Arnel Pineda were interviewed by myself a month or so back as they were wrapping up the band's European tour. They have now just completed the first leg of their 2011 USA tour and I'm now pleased to present the two interviews. Neal Schon: Doing It His Way. Read Interview. Arnel Pineda: From Dusty Streets To Platinum Records. Read Interview.   xx FIREWORKS #47 ON SALE NOW + BACK ISSUES ON DIGITAL: The latest issue of Fireworks Magazine is now available in shops, online and selected mail-order outlets. Another bumper 100 page full colour issue, #47 includes a very revealing Dream Theater cover feature, as well as detailed interviews with Chickenfoot, Sebastian Bach, George Lynch, Mike Tramp, Theory of a Deadman, House of Lords, Jon Anderson, Cinderella, Lionville, Joe Lynn Turner, Roger Glover, Don Airey, Manraze, Skagarack's Torben Schmidt and many, many more, including major in-depth interviews with two of the hottest new acts around, Work of Art and Toby Hitchcock. All this and a free 18 track CD … what's not to like?!! Fireworks can be bought in UK in various WH Smiths, McColls and Martins shops (see store finder at www.rocktopia.net) or online directly at the Fireworks mini-shop at www.rocktopia.net. Copies can also be ordered by cheque, sending £6 payable to 'Bruce Mee' and sending to: Fireworks Magazine, 10 Dunnock Close, Offerton, Stockport, SK2 5XD.   Fireworks is also available for digital purchase. Unfortunately the last few issues have come and gone without that option being offered. Let's correct that right here and now. Back issues #44, #45 and #46 can be ordered via links below, as can the brand new #47 issue - all for the price of £3.50 each. Additionally, if you'd like to order the 4 issues all together for the combo price of just £12, then click on the appropriate Paypal link and save £2. Please allow 24hrs for login details to be emailed.   Fireworks 44 Fireworks 45 Fireworks 46 Fireworks 47 44-47 Package Deal FASTWAY - NEW LINE-UP - NEW ALBUM - RELEASE DATES ANNOUNCED: Fastway is the brainchild of Ex-Motörhead guitar player Fast Eddie Clarke. Formed in 1983 the first album "Fastway" entered the UK Charts at #43 and received very good reviews. One year later "All Fired Up" was released and due to high profile support tours in the US with Scorpions and Rush, the album was a great success. In 1985 "Waiting For The Roar" saw the light of day and Fastway supported AC/DC on their "Fly On The Wall"-Tour in whole Europe. 1986 the band wrote the soundtrack for the horror movie "Trick Or Treat" starring Ozzy Osbourne and Gene Simmons. After 1986 Fastway released two more studio albums with a different line up and several live and best of albums. Eat Dog Eat is the first new studio album since 1990. Together with new vocalist Toby Jepson (Ex-Little Angels) Fast Eddie Clarke wrote some of his strongest songs. "Leave The Light On" or "Sick As A Dog" are only two examples of this varied album. Fast Eddie Clarke reckons: "By far the best thing I have done since the1st Fastway album. This is classic rock at its best!!!!" Steamhammer /SPV is proud to have Fast Eddie Clarke and Fastway on their label for Europe. Olly Hahn, A&R Steamhammer says: "It's an honour to have Fast Eddie Clarke and his band on our label. He was THE guitar player in Motörhead but also with Fastway he delivered awesome music. With "Eat Dog Eat" he`s definitely back...probably better than ever!" The album will be released in Germany on November 11 and in Europe on November 14. Tracklisting: 1. Deliver Me 4:41 2. Fade Out 4:05 3. Leave The Light On 3:55 4. Loving Fool 4:30 5. Dead And Gone 5:49 6. Sick As A Dog 3:44 7. Freedom Song 3:52 8. Do You Believe 4:04 9. Love I Need 4:37 10. On And On 3:53 / Download Exclusive: 11. Only If You Want It 4:06. WebLinks: www.fasteddieclarke.com / www.spv.de.   ANNOUNCING AOR FOR JAPAN: Press Release / "We all are aware of the sad events happened in Japan after the earthquake of March 11 and its unfortunate consequences. Although the notice has disappeared from the headlines of today, it doesn't mean that the situation it's alright. Japan always has supported melodic rock, and now it's the moment to return them that support. That is why AOR For Japan was born. AOR For Japan is an album with songs from best Spanish melodic rock bands. The benefits of the sale of this work will be entirely donated to Japan Red Cross, to support the victims and the reconstruction of the affected areas. The groups involved in this project are: Hardreams - 91 Suite - Airless - Dann Hoyos Space Octopus - Eden Lost - Hardleywood - Iván González (ex-guitar 91 Suite) - Manuel Seoane Burning Kingdom - Robert Rodrigo - Xader. Tracklist: 1.-Japan Japan (Manuel Seoane Burning Kingdom) 2.-Aulla Al Viento (Xader) 3.-Runaway (Airless) 4.-Attraction (Hardleywood) 5.-Lost In The Silence (91 Suite) 6.-Ready To Rock (Eden Lost) 7.-Rebel Heart (Hardreams) 8.-In A Dream (Robert Rodrigo) 9.-I Remember The Time (Ivan Gonzalez) 10.-Frio Sueño (Dann Hoyos Space Octopus) 11.-Kazeni Joeru (Xader). The album will have 10 tracks and 1 bonus track. It will be on sale September 11, coinciding with the six months since the earthquake. It will be available to be acquired online, through twelve digital platforms on 240 countries." The price is €5,99. For this small price you can help from September 11 to all japan victims. Direct links to sales platforms will be available at the project website: www.aorforjapan.com. You also can follow all information related with this at Facebook site: www.facebook.com/aorforjapan.   CARE FOR OUR TROOPS - WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS DIVISION: Far Cry guitarist Angelo Mazza asked me to pass this on to readers. More than happy to, so here goes: "I own a Music Educational Facility called Music Speaks... in Feeding Hills, Massachusetts, USA. (www.musicspeaks-ma.com). On October 1, 2011 we are having our one year anniversary celebration. In doing this we are combining our efforts with an organization called "Care For Our Troops - Western Massachusetts Division" to reach out to bands who are willing to donate CD's and/or Tee Shirts for our troops overseas. We ask that any band/artist that is interested in donating to please send to the address below. For more information on this, bands/artists are free to contact me via email (musicspeaks2010@live.com) or phone (1-413) 301-7007 from 3:30pm - 8:00pm EST. Please leave a message as we will return your call asap. Thank you so much in advance for your help and cooperation." An update from the FarCry camp: In May, our New Jersey show and CD Release was a huge success. Thanks to all who attended and shared that time with us. We recently opened for Firehouse in Massachusetts which was an outstanding show. I was honored to have CJ Snare, vocalist for Firehouse, make a special visit to our facility, Music Speaks... which was incredible. He was really enthusiastic about they way we are keeping music alive in todays youth! Thank you CJ!" DEEP PURPLE'S ROAD MANAGER - HIS STORY: July 1971: Colin Hart, a Geordie lad from South Shields was on his first tour of America as roadie for Matthew's Southern Comfort. The group was part of a three band bill with The Faces and Deep Purple. Following the tour he joined Deep Purple's road crew. Ian Gillan just knew Colin had to join the Purple entourage after seeing him pour a pint of beer over Rod Stewart! Forty years on and Wymer Publishing is pleased to announce 'A Hart Life', Colin Hart's life story as both Deep Purple & Rainbow's tour manager. Hart devoted over thirty years of his life to these great rock musicians. This is his story and indeed theirs. A tale of excess in terms of greed, petulance, anger and devotion. It is counter balanced by extremes of pure talent, showmanship and, of course musicianship. He was the constant 'man in the middle' through all of the break ups, make-ups and revolving door line-up changes. Joining them at twenty-four years old and leaving thirty years later, he was there every step of their rock 'n' roll way. A story of two of the most innovative, often copied, rock bands; seen through the eyes, ears and emotions of their 'mother hen' (as Jon Lord described him). He was their minder, chauffeur, carer, provider, protector, father confessor & confidant. In truth he is the only one who can tell this tale of both bands as he was the only one there on the road throughout the life of, not one, but both gigantic bands. Hart endured a roller coaster ride, working for Purple, during the band's most successful period. He was there when the casino burnt down in Montreux, and witnessed Smoke On The Water being born; the legendary concerts in Japan; the break-up of the Gillan / Glover line-up; the auditions that saw David Coverdale join the band, and the huge CalJam concert in front of 400,000. When Ritchie Blackmore left Deep Purple in early 1975 and formed Rainbow, Colin went with him and continued as Rainbow's tour manager through the ever-revolving line-ups. He was invariably the man who had to break the news to many of the hopefuls that auditioned for the band: "We'll get back to you" being the stock reply! Once again Colin was in the thick of it during Rainbow's 9 year tenure; The classic Rainbow Rising period, "the best line-up" in his eyes; the dramas during the making of Long Live Rock 'n' Roll; the departure of kingpin Ronnie James Dio; the Graham Bonnet era, culminating in the first Monsters Of Rock Festival at Donington; and the successful commercial period with frontman Joe Lynn Turner. In 1984 when Blackmore disbanded Rainbow for the Deep Purple reunion, Colin naturally resumed his role with these rock giants as they embarked on a world tour that included the hugely successful 1985 U.S leg - the second biggest grossing U.S tour that year after Bruce Springsteen. A déjà vu situation occurred as Colin was in the middle of yet more band break-ups as first, Gillan departed, Turner joined, Gillan, returned and Blackmore departed while Steve Morse emerged to take the band into the new millennium, although for Colin his thirty years on the road with two of the biggest bands in rock history came to an end in 2001. A Hart Life is written with life-long friend Dick Allix, former drummer with sixties band Vanity Fare. Hart tells the story of his life from humble beginnings in South Shields, to setting up home in California with Rainbow, and eventually settling in Florida, where he still lives today: Of touring the world several times over with two of Britain's greatest bands Deep Purple and Rainbow; a story that also crosses paths with Jimi Hendrix, George Harrison, Elton John, Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Def Leppard, The Scorpions and Iron Maiden to mention just a few! A truly fascinating insight into the world of rock 'n' roll from the other side of the stage. Includes forewords by Deep Purple and Rainbow bassist Roger Glover & Hart's nephew Paul Mann, who conducted the London Symphony Orchestra alongside Deep Purple at the 1999 'Concerto For Group & Orchestra' shows. The first book to be written by any of the entourage of either band. Deep Purple and Rainbow have combined record sales in excess of 130 million. Originally published in Japan in 2008 under the title 'Between A Rock & A Hard Place', Wymer Publishing has the rights for all other territories and languages. Orderable via: www.wymeruk.c.uk/Store. NEW KISS BOOK: "KISS ON TOUR 1998-2010": An updated version of the KissFAQ "KISS Alive" series was published on August 31. Retitled "KISS On Tour, 1998-2010," the 264 page book covers the touring history and statistics for KISS in the period, 1998-2010. It also includes additional bonus information concerning touring activities prior to 1998; and Ace Frehley and Paul Stanley solo tours during the same period. The book is currently available direct from https://www.createspace.com/3611572 but should be available via Amazon.com shortly. CALIFORNIA ROCKERS CROWNED BY FIRE ARE PRONE TO DESTROY: (2 September 2011 – Los Angeles, CA) Los Angeles based hard rock ruffians Crowned By Fire have recently issued their debut album, Prone To Destroy, via New York based upstart label Digital Media Records. Eleven songs laced with pure piss and vinegar, Prone To Destroy is an in your face sonic masterpiece produced by Chris Collier and recorded at Larione 10 Studios in Florence, Italy. Frontman, John Fitterer says, "We were flown over to Italy by a label called Molten Metal Productions who we were signed to for the European territories. We actually stayed on an ancient Tuscan estate for five weeks and recorded. It was an amazing experience." Formed in 2006, Crowned By Fire made a name for themselves playing throughout Southern California alongside such notable bands as Saint Vitus and Trouble as well as playing events including The Body Art Expo (both Los Angeles and San Francisco) and the Seattle Doom Festival. They most recently played the Las Vegas Doom Festival in June of this year. Prone To Destroy can be purchased at: itunes.apple.com/us/album/prone-to-destroy/id450066095. A FEW DAYS OFF: It's only Tuesday and its been a long week already... But lucky for me I get the rest of the week off. It's school holidays here, so I have a little family time planned. Unless something drastic happens, the next update will be Monday (including Friday's MRX update). Reviews, CD Showcase and more to come...

 

 

Monday, September 05, 2011

VAN HALEN - ALBUM DONE, BUT FULL EUROPEAN TOUR LESS LIKELY: In the interests of keeping starving Van Halen fans up to date with every little update possible, I offer today's humble update. Not much, but something at least while I sort out a few other things I have heard, but cannot yet confirm. Following my last update when it was mentioned EVH was not happy with all DLR vocals, I can now update that whatever those issues were, have been sorted and the album is finally done...mixed and completed. So that is great news of course. But with it comes no further information as to when we might finally get to see a release date announced or hear anything from it. I hear management is shopping for a deal (no word if anyone outside VH actually has a copy or has heard anything - I think not at this stage), but labels are being approached in search of a deal....and a BIG deal from what I was told! I'm told there is still hope to get the album released this side of Christmas, but that is certainly not for certain. Prior talk of an exclusive WalMart deal for the album is diminishing - I'm told the preference is one label for a worldwide deal. Now that's the good news. The same source that delivered this album news also told me that plans for the band touring Europe are less definite. There is an offer for the band to headline Download Festival in the UK next year, but other dates in Europe are still being looked at before they can commit to Download. And I'm told not to expect a full tour of Europe. The priority it seems will remain on US tour dates. Stay tuned as always... BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION LIVE OVER EUROPE: Black Country Communion, the rock and roll band featuring bassist/vocalist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Trapeze), blues rock guitarist/vocalist Joe Bonamassa, drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin), and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater), have confirmed the Monday October 24 UK and European release of their first ever live DVD & Blu-ray; Live Over Europe. Released by Mascot Records, the double live DVD was filmed with 14 HD cameras and 5.1 Surround Sound during the band's debut world tour in the summer of 2011. Recorded across three nights in the German cities of Hamburg, Munich and Berlin, the 18-song set includes tracks taken from both of BCC's albums – 2010's eponymous debut, and 2011's follow-up album release 2. Read the full "Live over Europe" DVD press release here - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/blackcountrycommunion/liveovereurope.htm. From Thursday September 8, fans will be able to download a live version of "Song of Yesterday" (taken from Live in Europe) absolutely free by visiting here. Bonus features include an exclusive 28-page collector's booklet, and an additional DVD containing a 20-minute "behind the scenes" featurette and photo collection.   RIOT REVEAL THEIR IMMORTAL SOUL: September 5, 2011 - Legendary U.S. metal band Riot have revealed the cover artwork and track listing for their forthcoming album Immortal Soul, which will be released on October 21 in Japan via Marquee/Avalon, October 26 in Scandinavia, October 28 in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, October 31 in the rest of Europe, and November 22 in the U.S. and Canada on Steamhammer/SPV Records. The artwork was done by the band's vocalist Tony Moore. "Immortal Soul" track listing: 01. Riot 02. Still Your Man 03. Crawling 04. Wings Are For Angels 05. Fall Before Me 06. Sins Of The Father 07. Majestica 08. Immortal Soul 09. Insanity 10. Whiskey Man 11. Believe 12. Echoes. Riot has been confirmed as special guest on the first leg of Hammerfall's European tour this winter. The trek kicks off on October 26 in Copenhagen, Denmark, and ends on November 18 in Cologne, Germany. This will be the first time the legendary "Thundersteel" and "The Privilege Of Power" line-up of Tony Moore (vocals), Mark Reale (guitar), Mike Flyntz (guitar), Don Van Stavern (bass), and Bobby Jarzombek (drums) has played in Europe on a full tour, after the band's celebrated one-off shows at Sweden Rock and Metalway Festival in 2009. 'European Outbreak 2011' tour dates: Oct. 26 - Copenhagen, Denmark - Amager Bio Oct. 27 - Oslo, Norway - Rockfeller Oct. 28 - Gothenburg, Sweden - Lisebergshallen Oct. 29 - Stockholm, Sweden - Arenan Oct. 31 - Hamburg, Germany - Große Freiheit Nov. 01 - Antwerp, Belgium - Trix Nov. 02 - Filderstadt, Germany - Filharmonie Nov. 04 - Oberhausen, Germany - Turbinenhalle Nov. 05 - Paris, France - Bataclan Nov. 06 - Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg - Rockhal Nov. 07 - Zurich, Switzerland - Volkhaus Nov. 09 - Vienna, Austria - Arena Nov. 10 - Graz, Austria - Orpheum Nov. 11 - Milan, Italy - Magazinni Generali Nov. 12 - München, Germany - Theaterfabrik Nov. 15 - Warzaw, Poland - Stodola Nov. 16 - Berlin, Germany - Huxleys Nov. 17 - Tilburg, Netherlands - 013 Nov. 18 - Köln, Germany - Essigfabrik Riot online: www.riotrockcity.com / www.facebook.com/pages/riotrockcity.   INTRODUCING JACOB GUAJARDO: Texas born, now New England based singer/songwriter, Jacob Guajardo, has lived, worked, and played music throughout US and internationally spanning over the past two decades. With the help of keyboardist, producer, and newfound friend Fran Rodriguez (ex-Nexx), Jacob has turned his focus to song writing and has recently released his 1st self-published single entitled You'll Be Missed. This song is about something most can relate too, someone leaving, someone staying behind, all the while knowing a part of themselves is missing or gone and missed. The idea of this new collaboration between Jacob and Fran is to release single after single. There's no album in the works at the moment. Some songs will be mainly keyboard driven but others will have guitar/bass/drums as well so keep visiting Jacob's ReverbNation page once in a while to listen to new songs. For fans of good old classic Soft Rock/Westcoast/AOR ballads and mid-tempos with a slight touch of modern Christian Contemporary sound. You can listen to "You'll Be Missed", get more information and put in contact with Jacob at: www.reverbnation.com/jacobguajardo. You'll Be Missed YouTube micro-video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=niedYsnuNX0. HARD ROCKING SWEDES BADMOUTH RELEASE VIDEO FOR NEW SINGLE 'BLUE RIBBON DAYS': Stockholm based rockers Badmouth have just released a brand new video for the track 'Blue Ribbon Days' from their brilliant second album Heavy Metal Parking Lot. Following on from the brilliant 'Tired', 'Blue Ribbons Days' is a shit-kicking new cut from an album that is nothing short of outstanding with a video to match. The new video comes off the back of some further good news, as Heavy Metal Parking Lot recently entered the top ten Rock charts at number ten in Sweden. Bassist Chris Le Mon has said this of the news – "Another dream to come true! We are having the time of our life and believe me, this is just the beginning!" The video can be found here - youtu.be/1RXXqigeeGc.

 

 

Friday, September 02, 2011

CHRIS OUSEY READY TO REVEAL NEW SOLO INVENTION: Escape Music are excited to reveal news of new music from Heartland vocalist Chris Ousey. Mother Of Invention is the first single from forthcoming solo album Rhyme and Reason. The single will be available for download on October 5 on all digital distributors iTunes (World), Amazon (World), Napster, Nikon, Tesco etc... The album is Produced and Mixed by: Mike Slamer (Steelhouse Lane/Seventh Key/Streets); Co-produced by Tommy Denander (Alice Cooper, Paul Stanley, Radioactive). Musicians: Mike Slamer: Guitars/Keyboards; Tommy Denander: Guitars/Keyboards; Neil Murray: Bass (Whitesnake/Gary More); Gregg Bissonet: Drums (David Lee Roth/Ringo Star). 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, after releasing 10 Heartland studio albums, 2 Virginia Wolf, and 2 as The Distance. Chris Ousey's forth coming solo album title Rhyme and Reason will be released on November 11. Sample the lead single right now with this edit: Chris Ousey - Mother Of Invention.   TIME TO 'LIKE' MITCH MALLOY: Mitch Malloy has all but completed work on his new rock CD Mitch Malloy II, which will be available digitally at first, with hard copies available at Firefest in October and elsewhere after that date. Mitch will preview the lead track from the new album via his Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/pages/Mitch-Malloy-Fans/367824767907. You will have to 'Like' the fan page to listen. Sign on and stand by... FREE ALBUM DOWNLOAD FROM NOISEWORKS VOCALIST: Jon Stevens, vocalist for Aussie rock band Noiseworks, has announced his new album can be downloaded for free until Monday (local Aussie time) via this link: www.universalmusic.net.au/freedownloads/sunrise/login. The new album Changing Times will be released officially soon, but for now, take advantage of this great offer from one of the great vocalists of this genre.   BULLETBOYS ROCK UP SOME COVER TUNES: The new Bulletboys album Rocked & Ripped is out now and is an all-covers affair featuring the following tracks: 01 - Dr. Feelgood 02 - Livin' On A Prayer 03 - Take Me Home Tonight 04 - Faithfully 05 - Balls To The Wall 06 - Free Fallin' 07 - Renegade 08 - Falling In Love 09 - Fuckin' Perfect 10 - The Rover 11 - I'll See You In My Dreams 12 - Colder Weather 13 - Rehab 14 - Broken Wings 15 - Tiny Dancer 16 - Smooth Up In Ya (re-recorded re-mastered) [bonus track].   TONY HARNELL LIVE IN NYC: Tony Harnell says via his latest newsletter: "Another gig in NYC!! This time I am covering artist's that have had a huge impact on my life and music. I hope you'll join me for this one of a kind performance. I'll be joined by Len Monachello on Piano and guitar, Jason Hagen on guitar, Brandon Wilde on bass and vocals and of course Amy Harnell on vocals and beauty :) This will be the first time I have ever performed with Piano being the main instrument. Not an electric Piano, a real grand piano on stage played beautifully by Len, it's going to be magic!" Rockwood Music Hall Stage 2 196 Allen Street (1/2 blck s. of Houston) New York, NY. Get tickets in advance here (last show was sold out): rockwoodmusichall.tickets.musictoday.com/RockwoodMusicHall/calendar.aspx. "In other news I am taking a semi-break from music for a bit, there will be the odd recording released for projects here and there and they will be announced as they come. As always thank you for your love and support!" WebLink: tonyharnell.com. SWEET SOUNDS ANNOUNCES MATT & THE CITY LIMITS RELEASE: Sweet Sounds Music & Management is pleased to announce that Sweet Sounds/Island recording artist Matt and The City Limits have released their debut CD titled Crash. Their music has received rave reviews from Germany, France and Japan. They are currently planning a US tour this coming Fall. Their music is available worldwide on iTunes and can be purchased by going to www.sweetsounds.us. Band members are Matt Berman (alto sax & vocals) John Collinge (tenor sax) Bennett Sullivan (guitar & bango) Dinos San Pedro (piano) Max Esquivel (bass) & Amir Williams (drums).   WITHIN TEMPTATION GUITARIST INKS DEAL WITH ROUGHTRADE: Due to the overwhelming success since the launch of the self-titled release from For All We Know, the project led by Ruud Jolie from Within Temptation, the band has just inked a distribution deal with Roughtrade which makes the CD available worldwide, for physical copies as well as digital downloads on all important download platforms per September 2. For All We Know is a project by Within Temptation guitarist Ruud Jolie. He has recorded a lot of songs and albums with other artists, but the urge to write and record his own material has always been present. So for the last 4 years he has been working on this music both when he was on the road with various bands (Within Temptation, Agua de Annique, Damian Wilson Band, Maiden uniteD, etc) and in his own studio. He considers himself very fortunate to be able to work with some of the greatest musicians and people imaginable on this project. The album For All We Know, written and produced by Ruud himself, contains 12 original songs that range from very atmospheric and dreamily acoustic to heavy and pounding progressive metal tracks. Guest-musicians: Daniel Gildenlöw (Pain Of Salvation): Vocals on Keep Breathing; Sharon den Adel (Within Temptation): Vocals on Keep Breathing; Damian Wilson (Threshold, DWB, Star One, Ayreon, Maiden uniteD): Backing vocals, Vocals on Keep Breathing; Ruud Houweling (Cloudmachine): Vocals on Keep Breathing; Anke Derks: Vocals on Keep Breathing; Tom Sikkers (Daybroke): Vocals on Keep Breathing; John Wesley (Porcupine Tree): Lead guitar on I Lost Myself Today; Richie Faulkner (Lauren Harris Band): Lead guitar on Busy Being Somebody Else; Camilla van der Kooij: Violin. The band has launched an album video teaser on the following location: www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tXkZRwCDys. Tracklisting: 1. Blind Me 2. Busy Being Somebody Else 3. Out of Reach 4. When Angels Refuse to Fly 5. I Lost Myself Today 6. Keep Breathing 7. Down On My Knees 8. Save us... 9. Embrace/Erase/Replace/Embrace 10. Tired and Ashamed 11. Open Your Eyes 12. Nothing more... For All We Know is: Ruud Jolie - Electric and Acoustic Guitars, Mandolin, Bass guitar and Backing vocals; Wudstik - Vocals; Kristoffer Gildenlöw - Fretless Bass guitar, Backing vocals; Léo Margarit - Drums; Thijs Schrijnemakers - Hammond; Marco Kuypers - Piano, Rhodes, Harmonium. For all info, please visit: www.forallweknow.net / www.roughtrade.nl. MELODIC BRIEFS: VH1 Classic Rock Nights with Eddie Webb - Night Ranger interview: vh1classicrocknights.com/audio-video/ Launched this August is a new rock site aimed to give bands exposure in places that Rolling Stone, SPIN, or Pitchfork won't. While the editor does feature popular acts (such as Maroon 5, Lady Gaga, Avril Lavigne) that some melodicrock.com readers may not care for, he also gives equal presence to the cooler bands in the hard rock, sleaze, and AOR genres. Since he's a rocker at heart, he hopes to give the typical Top 100 listening audience coverage on these bands they would otherwise not hear about. The site (named after a Paul Gilbert song) is superLOUD.net. Check it out and if you like what you see, bookmark him or subscribe to his feed. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new live shows: - Twisted Sister - Twist of the Wrist (Live, NYC 1984, 11 Tracks) - ZZ Top - Live 2000 (17 Tracks) - U2 Live Buenos Aires 2008 (2CD) - Zebra - Live 1980 Join MRX now. MRCD8 & COMING UP...: I'm pleased to say that after a lengthy delay, which included re-printing all the booklets, MRCD8 The Next Chapter has been shipped out to all and should start arriving at destinations later next week. Thanks to everyone for their patience. Next up is Riverdogs and Chris Antblad pre-orders, which will ship out Monday September 12. The official release date for both is September 30. So this is your last chance to grab Riverdogs at the discount $10 price tag via the MRR Store. MRR will next release the Rick Springfield tribute album Working Class Dogs. Details shortly. Early next week you can expect a few new Reviews and 2 Feature Interviews with Journey's Arnel Pineda and Neal Schon, another small Van Halen update for those still interested and finally...the Digital Issues of all the recent Fireworks Magazine issues, including the new issue 47 (details Monday). Later in the week I will be taking a couple of days off due to it being school holidays here.

 

 

Thursday, September 01, 2011

FRONTIERS CELEBRATING NOMINATIONS IN 'BEST ALBUM 2011' CATEGORY OF CLASSIC ROCK AWARDS: Europe's leading melodic rock & AOR label, Frontiers Records is celebrating TWO nominations in the 'Best Album of the Year 2011' category of this year's prestigious Classic Rock Magazine Roll of Honor Awards. Journey are one of the post popular American Rock bands of all time, and this year released their album, 'Eclipse' on Frontiers Records to critical acclaim. With 12 brand new studio tracks, produced by Kevin Shirley (Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, Iron Maiden), co-produced by Neal Schon & Jonathan Cain and mixed by David Kalmusky, founding member & lead guitarist Neal Schon says, "I'm in love with this record, which I haven't said about one of our albums for a long time, it's a rock record & it sounds amazing". Journey are: Neal Schon (lead guitar), Jonathan Cain (keyboards, guitar), Ross Valory (bass), Deen Castronovo (drums) & Arnel Pineda (lead singer). Since their formation in 1973, Journey has earned 19 Top 40 singles and 25 gold and platinum albums. The band's Greatest Hits album is certified 15 times platinum, bringing Journey into the elite club of Diamond-certified album holders. The group also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame – but will they be adding a Classic Rock award to their arsenal of accolades? Whitesnake, the legendary rock'n'roll legacy founded by renowned singer/songwriter David Coverdale this year released their 11th studio album, 'Forevermore' – via Frontiers Records. David Coverdale describes the new album as "a perfect blend of all the good elements we enjoy in Whitesnake; hard rock, rhythm & blues, soul and strong melodies. I feel it embraces a consolidated musical history of the band that we have rarely achieved before, but without borrowing from the past. It's a goon 'un, one of our best. We are honoured, once again, to be nominated for this prestigious award" Formed in 1977 Whitesnake carry a rightful reputation as one of the world's leading rock'n'roll bands. Coverdale's blues roots, combined with a passion for rock' n' roll, have shaped a sound that spawned a multi-platinum album in 1987, two top 10 hits & two number one singles. With over 100 Million records sold worldwide the bands ever-loyal legion of fans will be no doubt be voting for these perennial rock favorites! Serafino Perugino, President and A&R Director of Frontiers Records is delighted by news of the nominations, "Whitesnake and Journey showed they can still come up with outstanding music that sounds fresh & exciting in this day & age. We are honoured & enthused that these two bands have been put forward for the Best Album of 2011 Award by Classic Rock magazine and we hope their fans will vote and support these nominations" To check out the nominations for all categories and to cast your votes visit: awards2011.classicrockmagazine.com/ RUSH SIGN TO ROADRUNNER RECORDS: Rush is on the move. The prog rock legends behind "Tom Sawyer," "Fly By Night" and "The Spirit of Radio" have partnered up with Roadrunner Records after being doggedly pursued by the rock-heavy imprint. "After years of Roadrunner pursuing the band, Tom Lipsky [President, Lipsky Music LLC] presented a deal that worked and the timing was right," Rush manager Ray Danniels said in an announcement. "We wanted to be at a label focused on the rock genre -- and that's Roadrunner." Since 1989, the Canadian trio -- Alex Lifeson, Geddy Lee and Neil Peart -- has released six studio albums through Atlantic, beginning with "Presto" and most recently, 2007's "Snakes & Arrows," which debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. Before that, the band was at Mercury. The group's next full-length studio album, a long-gestating work titled "Clockwork Angels," will be released in 2012 on Roadrunner. The delay -- a lead single, "Caravan," was released in June 2010 -- was due to the success of their Time Machine Tour, which just wrapped. A first Roadrunner release will actually be a live album culled from the blockbuster tour. According to the label, details will be revealed in the coming weeks. Anthem/Universal Music will continue to release their music in Canada only. Roadrunner is understandably excited to bag a band that has sold more than 40 million records and -- thanks to their doc "Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage" and the Rush-heavy comedy film "I Love You, Man" -- is enjoying heightened attention and accolades across generations. "In another life I worked with Rush and their great management team more than 30 years ago and to have Rush finally on the Roadrunner label is a dream come true," said Cees Wessels, Roadrunner Records Chairman. Lipsky, who brokered the deal, remarked that Rush has a "tradition of excellence and independence, both in the studio and on the live stage, and they remain as prolific today as at any point in their career. We are excited to be their label partners." Rush's new labelmates include fellow prog rockers Dream Theater, metal heavies Megadeth and the indie rock band of the moment, Young the Giant, among others. ArticleLink: www.billboard.com/#/news/rush-signs-with-roadrunner-preps-new-album-1005333222.story. DC COOPER RETURNS TO ROYAL HUNT FOR NEW ALBUM: Royal Hunt is getting ready to enter the NorthPoint studio to record a new – yet untitled – album, a follow up to their latest one – X – which came out in 2010. Music's been described a "full-fledged return to that classic RH sound" which put the band on the map in the first place, all the way back in 1991. Album´s expected to be released in December 2011 through Marquee/Avalon (Japan and SE Asia) and Frontiers Records (rest of the world). Royal Hunt´s current line-up: Andre Andersen (keyboards), DC Cooper (vocals), Allan Sorensen (drums), Andreas Passmark (bass) and Jonas Larsen (guitar). JEREMEY FREDERICK PARTNERS WITH KICKSTARTER.COM TO RELEASE DEBUT CD: Singer/songwriter Jeremey Frederick has launched a Kickstarter project in order to raise funds for the completion of his debut full length recording, Every Little Thing. The Kickstarter project will fund the final production, distribution, and marketing phases of the recording and production process, which has been in full effect since February of this year. Kickstarter is the largest funding platform for creative projects in the world. In business since 2009, Kickstarter has raised over $40 million dollars for 7,500 creative projects. The company operates from an all-or-nothing based funding method where projects must be fully funded or no money changes hands. The Kickstarter process gives everyone with internet access the unique opportunity to help fund the record, as well as to be an insider in the process of recording and marketing the final product. Everyone who contributes to the project will receive intimate access to the ongoing status of the album, as well as unique and creative rewards related to the recording, based on each individual level of support - From pre-release copies of the CD to liner note mentions, to personal performances and much more. "The funding process is not an investment opportunity," says Jeremey. "It's a creative opportunity for people to be a part of this recording, and for me to work on a personal level with them to make this record a reality." Already a platinum-selling songwriter (under his full name of Jeremey Frederick Hunsicker) thanks to his association with the band Journey - and a writing credit on the million-selling 2008 release Revelation - Jeremey believes this collection of original songs will allow his songwriting and vocal performances to stand on their own merits, showcasing a unique and original voice all his own. The Kickstarter project to support Every Little Thing begins Friday, September 9th, and will wind down 37 days later on Saturday, October 22nd. Jeremey's goal is to raise $4,000 during this time period to pay for the production and mastering of the physical CD, as well as duplication costs. If the goal of $4,000 is not reached, contributors will not be charged for their pledge. Jeremey Frederick performs over 150 shows yearly with the nationally touring tribute act Frontiers. He is a member of ASCAP and President of Our Quinnessential Music Group, an independent music publishing company. For more information, please visit: www.kickstarter.com/profile/jeremey, www.jeremeyfrederick.com, or www.facebook.com/JeremeyMusic. "REBORN IN SLEAZE: A TRIBUTE TO DAVE LEPARD": PRE-ORDERS FROM 1ST SEPTEMBER: You can pre-order "Reborn In Sleaze: A Tribute To Dave Lepard", which is to be released on the 1st October, on www.streetsymphonies.com from the 1st September. There will be just 200 numbered copies of the album available, 150 of which sold by Street Symphonies and the other 50 copies by Lepard Store of Uppsala, Sweden (the shop managed by Dave's mother, Lisbeth Hellman). Part of the earnings will be given to the "Dave Lepard Memorial Fund" to support young musicians. WebLink: www.streetsymphonies.com. ST. LOUIS ROCKERS CAVO PREMIERE "THICK AS THIEVES" + FREE DOWNLOAD: Cavo premiered their new single Thick as Thieves Monday on St. Louis's alternative rock station, KPNT, and has followed it by offering a free download on their facebook page for THIS WEEK ONLY. "Thick As Thieves" is the follow up to the band's #1 rock single, "Champagne" from the album Bright Nights Dark Days (Reprise/Warner), and the first taste of the band's sophomore release from Eleven Seven Music, out in stores in February of 2012. A free download of the song is available at www.facebook.com/Cavo. "We went through a lot as a band on this last album cycle that, in some ways, really challenged our friendships. It was all new for us and we had our difficulties dealing with it, but came out a stronger better band cause of it. Thick As Thieves really explains our mindset as a band, we realized that nothing can come between us unless we allow it to, and we got back to basics as a band, just four guys writing music that really meant something to us first. We believe that it'll translate to the fans better if it comes from an honest place." – Casey Walker (lead singer of Cavo) WebLinks: facebook.com/Cavo / twitter.com/cavomusic / youtube.com/Cavomusic.

 

 

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

FORMER TOTO SINGER FERGIE FREDERIKSEN TELLS THE WORLD THAT HAPPINESS IS THE ROAD: Frontiers Records is particularly pleased to announce the release of Fergie Frederiksen new album Happiness is the Road for a release on October 14 in Europe and October 18 in North America. Mostly known for being the former vocalist of Toto (in the "Isolation" era), Fergie has been involved in a lot of other outstanding musical projects too. Trillion, LeRoux, Frederiksen/Philips, Mecca, Frederiksen/Denander and David London (solo album, under pseudonym) are simply a few worthy of mention. In 1999 he debuted as a solo artist with "Equilibrium", an album which garnered great reviews in Europe and Japan. In short Frederiksen is certainly one of the most esteemed singers in the Melodic Rock scene and his vocal abilities have blessed some real masterpieces of this music. In June 2010, Frederiksen announced he had been diagnosed with liver cancer. The following months were obviously very difficult for the singer who used music and the recording sessions of this album as a therapy to regain confidence in himself and his strengths. He also found the time and energy to collaborate with Jim Peterik (ex Survivor) on the songwriting of the album's title track, a real motivational manifesto for a positive approach to life. Fergie says "It was hard doing the sessions. I had side effects of the drugs, after the operations and then with the pills I'm taking. I had to stop many days and just go home to bed to try and do it again the next day. It has been a huge victory for myself. When I was first diagnosed with cancer I wanted to stop recording. It didn't feel like I could do it. But my friend Alex Ligertwood said I need to finish it. He was right of course and I thank him for the tough love. I am proud that I did." About one year later, in the summer 2011, Fergie had two great things to share with the World: the first being the completion of the recording of the new album and the second is the positive results to the cures he was under, with the cancer now being close to be defeated. "I am feeling great right now" tells Fergie. "I am close to cancer free. Not what all the doctors thought would happen and they are almost as excited about it as I am. I seem to be an exception to the rule. I am very glad to be because the alternative sucks big time". The new album musically shows a different side of Fergie. "It's hard to compare this new album with Equilibrium" continues Frederiksen, "That was a cd that I co-wrote most of the songs, so I guess you could say I was more connected because of that. In the same breath I must say that this cd is very important because of where my world is at right now. The title song, Happiness Is The Road, is the saying I have lived by for the past few years even before I became ill. It means a lot to me to have other people examine its meaning. If you think about it real hard, you will find joy and love in your life you have been missing. At least I hope people do. The songs are real good songs. Being I co-wrote only one, it is a change for me but a good one. It is what it is, a cd with good songs and hopefully good vocals. Thanks to Serafino at Frontiers for his vision." "Happiness is the Road" is a story of love and passion to tell and of course of so many great songs expertly produced by Dennis Ward (House of Lords, Pink Cream 69, Place Vendome and Angra) and written by Jim Peterik (ex Survivor), David Roberts (Bad English), Mark Baker (Signal, House of Lords), Robert Sall (Work of Art), Joe Vana (Mecca), Dennis Ward and more. Fergie Frederiksen is involved in raising awareness of Hepatitis C, a disease he has been struggling with himself. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most common chronic blood-borne infection in the United States. Fergie has arranged benefit shows for the American Liver Foundation, with the cause of fighting Hep C. He went through a successful treatment in 2005, which he is fighting for other patients to receive too. Well, the future is once again bright for Fergie, so keep going on in your life as "Happiness is the Road". "Happiness Is the Road" includes the following songs: Angel (Mirror To Your Soul); Elaine; First To Cry; Follow Your Heart; Happiness Is The Road; I Still Believe In Love; Lyin' Eyes; Love Waits For No One; Writing On The Wall; The Future Ain't What It Used To Be; The One; The Saviour. The firsts single from the album "Angel" can be exclusively listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Records webradio www.frontiers.it/webradio. Fergie Frederiksen - Vocals, Dennis Ward - Bass Guitar, Guitars, Keyboards and Background Vocals, Dirk Bruinenberg - Drums, Nathan Eshman - Guitars, Eric Ragno - Keyboards.   xx MAGNUM - EVOLUTION - CELEBRATION OF THE LAST 10 YEARS SINCE THE REUNION: Hugely influential British melodic hard rock group Magnum are set to release Evolution, on Steamhammer / SPV, on November 14 (Germany November 11th, USA/Canada end of November) which comes in a high value ecol book, and have confirmed 3 exclusive UK dates November/December 2011. The line-up of guitarist / songwriter / producer Tony Clarkin, vocalist Bob Catley, keyboard player Mark Stanway, bassist Al Barrow and drummer Harry James, have excelled themselves on 'Evolution', one of the strongest and most unusual best of albums in their illustrious (near-40-year) history to date. Evolution contains eight songs from their previous comeback albums which were partial re-recorded and fully re-mixed, two from their much acclaimed "The Visitation" album (which cracked the Top 20 in Germany and made it to #3 in the UK Rock Charts as well as high chart entries in Sweden and Switzerland) and two totally new recorded songs. "Evolution": re-recorded.....great - re-mastered.....even better - re-visited.....go for it! Tracklisting "Evolution: 1. That Holy Touch : 4.47 Re-recorded drums, bass, guitar & some vocals (remixed) Originally on "Breath Of Life" 2. Just Like January : 4.38 Re-recorded drums, bass & guitar (remixed) Originally on "Breath Of Life" 3. Brand New Morning : 5.52 Re-recorded bass, guitar & some vocals (remixed) Originally on "Brand New Morning" 4. Immigrant Son : 5.31 Re-recorded bass & guitar (remixed) Originally on "Brand New Morning" 5. When We Were Younger : 6.48 Re-recorded drums, bass, guitar & some vocals (remixed) Originally on "Princess Alice & The Broken Arrow" 6. Out Of The Shadows : 6.38 Re-recorded drums, bass, guitar (remixed) Originally on "Princess Alice & The Broken Arrow" 7. All My Bridges : 4.40 Re-recorded bass & drums (remixed) Originally on "Into The Valley Of The Moonking" 8. Blood On Your Barbed Wire Thorns : 6.50 Re-recorded bass (remixed) Originally on "Into The Valley Of The Moonking" 9. The Visitation : 5.48 Taken from "The Visitation" 10. Wild Angels : 5.40 Taken from "The Visitation" 11. The Fall : 5.38 New recording 12. Do You Know Who You Are? : 6.49 New recording MAGNUM live 2011 30.11. GB-Bilston – The Robin 2 01.12. GB-Cambridge - Junction 02.12. GB-Prestatyn – Hard Rock Hell V WebLinks: www.magnum-online.co.uk / www.spv.de.   DEF LEPPARD UK TOUR WITH MOTLEY CRUE - DECEMBER 2011 GUESTS STEEL PANTHER: British Rock legends Def Leppard are set to embark on a UK tour with Motley Crue this December. The tour will see them play 6 UK dates with Steel Panther as special guest support. Def Leppard frontman Joe Elliott says, "I can't tell you enough how thrilled I am to announce this tour! ... we always strive to make our shows an event & to have Motley Crue & Steel Panther along for the ride makes this an event that just can't be missed for rock fans across the UK !! ... come join us on what will be the event of the year!" 2011 has also seen the release of the band first ever live album, Mirrorball featuring classic tracks, three band new recordings and a bonus DVD and Leppard's first coffee table book, titled "Def Leppard – The Definitive Visual History". The album was also released on 3Lp gatefold sleeve. Def Leppard remain one of the world's biggest and most successful live acts. Before this year, the band last played the UK and Eire in 2009 – headlining Download festival that year after a hugely successful sold out UK Arena tour in 2008. June 2011 saw Def Leppard headline Download Festival for the second time in three years. The full UK December 2011 dates are as follows: Tues 6th December 2011 Birmingham LG Arena Thu 8th December 2011 Nottingham Arena Fri 9th December 2011 Glasgow SECC Sun 11th December 2011 Manchester MEN Tue 13th December 2011 Sheffield Arena Wed 14th December 2011 Wembley Arena Tickets go on sale at 9am on Friday 2nd September priced at £47.50 London / £45.00 regionally (subject to booking fee) and will be available from www.livenation.co.uk. With more than 65 million albums sold worldwide and two prestigious Diamond Awards (Def Leppard are one of only five rock bands to have two consecutive 10 million plus selling albums in the U.S. The others are The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and Van Halen) to their credit, Def Leppard - Joe Elliott (vocals), Phil Collen (guitar), Rick "Sav" Savage (bass), Vivian Campbell (guitar) and Rick Allen (drums)— continue to be one of the most important forces in rock music. Over the course of their career, the band has produced a series of classic ground breaking albums that set the bar for generations of music fans and artists alike. The group's spectacular live shows, filled with powerful melodic rock anthems, continue to sell out venues worldwide. Their epic live show and arsenal of hits have become synonymous with their name, leading Def Leppard to be heralded as an institution in both the music and touring industry. "Mirror Ball" is out now on Frontiers Records. WebLinks: www.defleppard.com / www.myspace.com/defleppard.   R.I.P. JOHNNY G OF BULLETBOYS: More sad news. This is getting old already! Bulletboys drummer Johnny Giosa has been killed in a car crash in LA. From: www.noisecreep.com/. One-time BulletBoys drummer Johnny Giosa, perhaps best known as Johnny G, was killed in a car accident on Sunday in Los Angeles at the age of 42. The band confirmed that it was indeed Giosa who died, courtesy of a Facebook post. The text of that emotional (and unedited) post is as follows: "I post this message with a heavy heavy heart...Words cannot express how devastated I am to hear about my friends passing, Mr. Johnny G. My sincerest condolences to his family and the ones he loved. We're all going to miss you brother! RIP....Skinnard!!" Giosa was a bit of a Renaissance man. He didn't just bash the skins. He also dabbled in other creative fields, such as acting, modeling and hair styling. He enjoyed stints in bands in both Philly and LA, but the BulletBoys were his most recent musical gig. Metal Sludge reported that friends say the drummer hanging out a club and that he was likely killed on a freeway in Southern California while driving home." CHICKENFOOT UK RELEASE INFO: Chickenfoot, featuring guitar hero Joe Satriani, frontman Sammy Hagar, former Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony and world renowned drummer Chad Smith, have confirmed multiple UK release dates and formats for their highly anticipated second album Chickenfoot III, the follow-up to 2009's award-winning eponymous debut album. The album will initially be released in the UK as an exclusive Limited Edition Fan Pack, and will coincide with the international album release date of Tuesday September 27th. Produced by Mike Fraser (AC/DC, Metallica), the album will come in specially designed 3D packaging. The Fan Pack includes two exclusive bonus tracks - Down The Drain (Live in Phoenix) and Oh Yeah! (Live in Phoenix) - and a 132-page magazine dedicated to the band. 100% Chickenfoot-approved, the fan pack magazine contains exclusive interviews with Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, Michael Anthony and Chad Smith, talking about the new album and their respective careers. The Fan Pack details the making of the band's new video, how they created the 3D album cover, an overview of their solo careers and the story behind each song on the new album. The magazine is also packed with rare photos of the band, an exclusive muso section, a Guitar Pick Pack, 3D glasses, and a 3D CD digital book pack with postcards. On Monday October 24, Chickenfoot III will be released in the UK on CD, Deluxe Edition CD & DVD, and 12" vinyl. The Deluxe Edition CD & DVD will include a Chickenfoot III EPK, Big Foot promotional video, Turning Left (live in Phoenix) and the Sexy Little Thing promotional video. Today, Chickenfoot posted the official promotional video for the Big Foot single on YouTube. Details of the band's September 27tworldwide web simulcast concert, will be announced shortly.   GUITAR GURU RICHIE KOTZEN TO RELEASE NEW CD 24 HOURS – TO RELEASE 11.11.11: Hollywood, CA (August 30, 2011) – After 2 years of extensive international touring, guitar virtuoso, singer/ songwriter Richie Kotzen is back to unleash his new album 24 Hours, releasing November 11 on Headroom-Inc. 24 Hours reflects the guitar style's that has defined his career as a virtuoso, while taking it to another level of playing. "I feel like I have reached a new level of soloing on the opening track 24 Hours," explains Kotzen. "I stopped using a guitar pick on electric a few years ago and my playing has evolved in a different way. Some of the solo lines I play on the song 24 Hours, and others as well, are lines I would have never been able to play with a guitar pick. So I would say the solo's on this CD are at a different level than previous recordings." 24 Hours is an absorbing collective blend of Kotzen's musical influences and diversity. 24 hours takes you on an inspired, musical journey as the opening track sets the tone that falls stylistically somewhere between early Van Halen and Sly and the Family Stone. Kotzen also brought in his talented daughter, August Kotzen and friend Jerry Cantrell of Alice in Chains, to complete the album. "My daughter, August is singing with me on a few songs and is playing electric piano on the song Stop Me," states Kotzen. "My friend Jerry Cantrell is singing backgrounds on Love Is Blind and does a very cool lead vocal ad-lib in the final chorus of the tune." 24 Hours is an album that has been in the works since Kotzen started playing guitar. The guitar virtuoso burst onto the heavy metal scene as a teenager with a lightning-fast guitar techniques. With his talents Kotzen has played with some of the best musicians; securing such major collaboration with the band Mr. Big and renowned jazz great Stanley Clarke as well as his own solo projects. "I have been lucky in the sense that I have been able to play with guys who I could learn from," explains Kotzen. "The biggest musical lesson for me was playing in a band with Stanley Clarke and Lenny White. Obviously these guys are jazz musicians and I am not, but I learned so much from the time we recorded and toured together. My favorite rock bassist is Billy Sheehan and we were in Mr. Big together for 3 years which was awesome." 24 HOURS was recorded and produced in Kotzen's studio Headroom-Inc. 24 Hours will be released on 11.11.11. Expect the first single, title track 24 Hours to hit airwaves sometime soon. For more information go to www.richiekotzen.com. HEARTLAND DEBUT RE-ISSUED FINALLY: Heartland originally were the brainchild of singer Chris Ousey (ex Virginia Wolf) and guitarist Gary Sharpe (ex Monroe). Released in 1991 on A&M Records, Heartland's self-titled debut album is regarded as one of the finest releases in British Melodic Rock history. Produced by Jimbo Barton (Gary Moore, Queensryche a.o.), 'Heartland' includes the classics 'Carrie Ann', 'Fight Fire With Fire' and 'Walking On Ice'. 'Fight Fire With Fire' was released a single in the same year. To promote the record, the UK rockers at the time of the release being went on the road together with Mr. Big. Heartland are still active today, with a different line-up, but still centered around singer Chris Ousey. So far the band has released 10 studio albums and one best of compilation - most of them on a small British underground label. Due to legal reasons, the best of album did not include any tracks from this first record. Therefore the German label Yesterrock is even more proud to announce the reissue of the first 'Heartland' album, which has been a long time out of print and became a rare and expensive collector's item. In cooperation with Universal Music Germany, Yesterrock is now re-releasing this sought after album. All songs have been lavishly remastered. Tracklist: 1. Teach You To Dream, 2. Carrie Ann, 3. Don't Cast Your Shadow, 4. Real World, 5. Fight Fire With Fire, 6. That Thing, 7. Walking On Ice, 8. Paper Heart, 9. Paradise, 10. Promises. Line-Up: Chris Ousey (Vocals), Gary Sharpe (Guitars), Phil Brown (Bass), Steve Gibson (Drums), Rik Carter (Keyboards).

 

 

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

MELODIC ROCK DIVA ISSA IS BACK WITH A STORMING SECOND ALBUM!: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the worldwide release of the second Issa album entitled The Storm on October 14 in Europe and October 18 in North America. Since her debut Sign of Angels, the Norwegian Rock Diva has often been compared to such music stars as Celine Dion, Avril Lavigne and Amy Lee (Evanescence). Issa however has created her own style and approach to Melodic Rock, by mixing her peculiar and unique melodic sensibility with a rocking attitude which is unseen in today's Pop singers. Not metal and certainly not easy listening Pop, Issa's music has everything and more to appeal to the vast masses: real rock with a commercial sheen. Unlike the debut self-titled album, the "The Storm" has Issa taking a shot at songwriting and together with the Martin brothers (Vega, House of Lords, Khymera, Sunstorm), she offers up tracks on the new album like "Invincible", "We're on Fire" and "The Storm", the album's title track. Issa explains "The songs I wrote on this album show more of my personality and direction. Some of them have been written straight from my life and it's exciting for me to finally show some of my own work for the first time. I knew Tom and James Martin through the last album on which they wrote some fantastic tunes. We've worked together a lot since then and these songs are very personal to me. "Invincible" especially is a song that I feel very close to." Songwriting contributions also came from Robert Säll (Work of Art), Randy Goodrum (Steve Lukather, Toto, Steve Perry), Daniel Palmqvist, Johannes Stole (Xorigin), Daniel Flores, Sören Kronqvist (Crash the System, Sunstorm), Chris Laney, Magnus Karlsson (Place Vendome) and more! "The Storm" shows a different side of me" continues Issa. "I've had the most life changing year of my life and this also reflects on the new album in many ways. It's a more honest performance from me and I think every song captures a feeling or something we all can relate too: everything from the fun times to the deeper side of us. I think its so important to have an album that can touch more than one feeling." Produced by Daniel Flores, "The Storm" shows that Issa is a solid Rock Music star and a true uprising Rock diva, who is set to alight hearts and minds of Melodic Rock fans for the years to come! "The Storm" includes the following tracks: Looking For Love; Please Hold On; Take A Stand; Invincible; Two Hearts; Black Clouds; You're Making Me; Gonna Stand By You; We're On Fire; Too Late For Love; What Does It Take; The Storm. Includes bonus videoclip: Looking For Love. The first single "Looking for Love" can be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Records webradio www.frontiers.it/webradio. WebLinks: www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/isabelloversveen. Issa (Isabell Oversveen) Lead vocals; Guitars - David Sivelind; Bass - Johnny Trobro, Daniel Flores, David Sivelind; Drums and keyboards - Daniel Flores. Guitar solos: David Sivelind (The Storm), Robert Säll (Looking For Love), Christian Wolff (Too Late For Love / We're On Fire), Mats Lindfors (Take a Stand), Christopher Vetter (Black Clouds / You're Are Making Me), Gabriel Forsman (Gonna Stand By You), Daniel Palmquist (Two Hearts).   xx JUST WHERE IS VAN HALEN'S NEW ALBUM AND WHEN WILL ANY PRESS COMMENCE?: Just where is the Van Halen album at and when might fans get any indication that the new record is finally coming? That's the question constantly being asked by the band's frustrated fanbase. Time is running out for a 2011 release announcement, given that I personally am already working on November releases with some labels, with most locking in their plans for the last quarter already. When one looks at the efforts underway in the Chickenfoot camp, it's easy to see who has the better grasp of media in the 21st century. Sammy Hagar and co are already all over Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and their own websites with video teasers, personal appearances and interviews. But still nothing from Van Halen, who commenced recording of the album back in 2010 with producer Ross Hogarth, apart from David Lee Roth telling us to coming to "Get Ready" (hopefully not to get ready for more disappearing tour dates, as happened in Australia). I don't have much news today, but the latest from one of my sources suggests the continued "mixing" process, which is reported to have been going on for some time now, could involve additional vocals being recorded by David Lee Roth for inclusion on the album. The mixing process often includes the addition of extra parts and replacement of others. My source stated: "As for the album being shelved goes, it's not true. However, I will say that the delay lies within the vocals. That seems to be the main roadblock. Eddie is just not satisfied with the vocals that have been recorded and re-recorded which has caused a lot of frustration with both the Van Halen and Roth Camps alike. It's also my understanding that Shanks involvement ended up being very minimal compared to what the press made it out to be." While this is just one source and won't ever be commented on by anyone officially...it does make sense, in explaining why at the start of September 2011 we still haven't heard one note of the new music. I've heard further comments about US tour dates for the first 3 months of 2012, so it seems planning for the tour remains on track. There is a rumored January date for Van Halen in Indonesia, but that is anything but confirmed at this stage. Stay tuned as always...   LIBERTY & JUSTICE FEATURING JANI LANE - TAKE TWO: The delayed single Sin from Liberty n' Justice which features Jani Lane's last 100% finished recording performance will finally make its way to iTunes on 8-30-11. We are excited for fans of Jani Lane and of LNJ to hear this rocking emotional piece of art that all so features the talents of Keri Kelli (Alice Cooper), JK Northrup (King Kobra), and Bill Leverty (Firehouse). This was one of the 28 songs due out next year on LNJ's double CD The Cigar Chronicles (half covers and half originals) but as a farewell to a great "Song & Dance Man" LNJ is making the single available this Tuesday. A portion of the proceeds will be going to charity in the name of Jani Lane. Available via: iTunes, Amazon Mp3, CD Baby, Amazon, Best Buy, FYE. GLYDER TO RELEASE "BACKROADS TO BYZANTIUM" IN NORTH AMERICA OCTOBER 25 ON SPV/STEAMHAMMER: Irish rockers Glyder have completed work on their fourth studio album, Backroads To Byzantium, for an October 25 North American via SPV/Steamhammer Records. Backroads to Byzantium takes the listener on a road trip that has a hint of Americana and progresses to the re-emerging troubles on the streets of Northern Ireland to being homeless on the streets of London. Other themes on the album concern the evils of the tabloid press and global warming. The album ends off in a reflective mood about mortality and how it's not the end." Glyder's new singer Jackie Robinson has a unique rock voice that sometimes hints at Paul Rodgers and Phil Mogg. Hailing from Northern Ireland, he was recruited through an ad on the Internet and because the rest of the band is from the South of Ireland, the album was written between Jackie and the two Glyder guitarists, Bat Kinane and Pete Fisher, over email. Working with some home recording software and a few Gmail accounts, the new Glyder album took shape over Christmas 2010 and early 2011. The album was recorded in Dublin and mixed in Copenhagen. The stunning artwork was created by Mark Wilkinson. Founding member Bat Kinane spoke about the new lineup and album: "This new Glyder album has i feel my best songwriting and guitar playing to date. I've just put everything into this album and I also seem to have found a new confidence in my playing. Pete's playing is also great and he has some amazing solos. You cannot mistake that this is a great guitar album, but the songwriting I feel is top-notch, too. Jackie, the new singer, really has a quality set of pipes and that makes it very exciting. I like the fact that we used all the modern technology available to us to write the album because Jackie lives 200 miles away. It's very much a classic rock-sounding album, but it was written and recorded in a way that could have not been done thirty years ago. I know in my heart we have done something very special on this album and I'm very proud to be in this band." Some older Glyder tracks with the new singer Jackie Robinson can be heard on www.reverbnation.com/glyder. Glyder have released three albums and have opened for the likes of Metallica, Slash, Dio, Thin Lizzy, Michael Schenker, Mötley Crüe, Blue Oyster Cult. They have headlined in Spain and their own native Ireland as well as headlining to 10.000 rock fans in India. The band is currently lining up dates for festivals in Ireland during the summer and doing some dates with Y&T in Ireland in October. Glyder is: Jackie Robinson - Vocals, Bat Kinane - Guitars and Backing Vocals, Pete Fisher - Guitars, Graham McClatchie - Bass, Des McEvoy - Drums. For more info visit: www.facebook.com/glydermusic / www.glydermusic.com.

 

 

Monday, August 29, 2011

PHIL COLLEN LOOKING FOR MANRAZE HIT: Most know Phil Collen as the guitar player for Def Leppard but he has another band, a three piece named Manraze who have just released their second album titled PunkFunkRootsRock. Collen explained to Classic Rock Revisited.com what he wants to happen with his new band that includes his former Girl band mate Simon Laffy as well as Sex Pistol drummer Paul Cook. "What I want to happen is for one of the songs to get played somewhere, whether it is radio, television or a movie soundtrack. This music sounds great to me. We want to get the word out. We are a really good band and we're a really good live band. We need to get it into the right hands, or rather, the right ears." Collen goes on to describe ways he can break his new band in the business, "We need something to take, to stick somewhere. This day and age, it is the same story for everyone. Unless you're lucky enough to be on a soundtrack or something, then nothing is going to happen. We're not under any illusion; we know that is how it happens these days. Even the Rolling Stones, when they put a new song out, it won't really do anything other than let you know that they're going to be going out on tour. Manraze is a different thing as this is a brand new band – well, its five years old but we still need attention. We neeed someone in the right place to hear this and realize, "this is fucking great.'" Read the entire interview at: www.classicrockrevisited.com/interviewManraze32.htm. REIGN OF KINGS' SPIRIT OF AMERICA, FEATURING LEAD VOCALS BY STEVE AUGERI: Potomac Records (www.potomacrecords.com) is proud to honor the 10th Anniversary of 9/11 by bringing you Reign of Kings' Spirit Of America, featuring Lead Vocals by Steve Augeri (Journey). The single will be Available on iTunes Tuesday 8/30, as well as all other digital media outlets (iTunes, Amazon.com, Naptster, eMusic...). Songwriter, Shawn Key (Reign of Kings - www.reignofkings.com): "9-11 will forever be remembered as the day that changed America. Tragic loss of life; Loss of innocence. But 9-11 will also be remembered for the courage that first responders showed. America came to together perhaps never like before. Ten years later, Reign of Kings is proud to honor the fallen and their families with Spirit of America. Sung by Steve Augeri (Journey) and chosen by Saltwater Soldiers as its television theme song, Reign of Kings hopes to touch the hearts of all who listen and remind them that the Spirit of America lives on…forever." And check the video out at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTSTTDu8AMU. OUTLOUD RELEASE LOVE CATASTROPHE ON ITUNES IN NORTH AMERICA WITH EXCLUSIVE BONUS TRACK: Outloud, the stellar hard rock band who has been making noise across Europe this year with their sophomore release Love Catastrophe, now unveils the album digitally on iTunes and select other digital download outlets in North America. This release contains an exclusive bonus track, entitled Mr. Long Gone. Says vocalist Chandler: "This tune was recorded during the Love Catastrophe sessions and has sort of a Mr. Big vibe. I love this song and thought it a great addition to the North American release. It will most likely appear on a CD release sometime in the future." In addition to iTunes, the album can be purchased (with the bonus track) at the following digital download stores: Myspace Music, MediaNet, Zune, Rhapsody, Nokia & Vervelife. In the coming week or so the album will be available on Amazon, Napster, Emusic and IHeartRadio as well. Additionally, Outloud has unveiled their official website, www.outloud-rock.com. Here you can check out their music and all of their official videos, get the latest news, exclusive photos and downloads, Outloud merchandise such as T-shirts and caps, and see a new instructional guitar video for a different song every month! This month's song is "We Run"! Love Catastrophe - Track By Track from vocalist Chandler Mogel: We Came To Rock - This one is the big "rock anthem" that kicks off the record. A little sleazy and dirty, but just a good old-fashioned ode to rock'n'roll! Falling Rain - Big melodic rock / AOR with big choruses. About a relationship that falls apart - and the aftermath - we've all been there! Live Again - One of my fav songs on the record. A blistering riff by Bob kicks it off. This one gets deep topic-wise - it's about the state of society and governments today and also about the fact that we are all spiritual beings, not just mud or flesh as those in "power" would make us seem. Waiting For Your Love - The first single of the album (and video), it's melodic pop / rock / AOR at its finest! The Night That Never Ends - Tony came up with the initial idea / lyrics for this one. It's a great rocker a la early Night Ranger - but a little heavier and darker. Super chorus, one of my favs on the record. Someday - This is the ballad of the record. I wanted to do something different this time around so I invited a good friend of mine, Deana Dee, to do some backgrounds on it. My favorite part is the outro / ending of the song. Underground - awesome groove rocker (great riff by Bob) that just simply rocks. Isolation Game - This is one of the tunes that I came up with the melody line and lyrics before the music was written, and it's about being stuck in a relationship, in doubt about the whole thing, you can't leave and you can't stay! Love the tempo and groove of this song, one of my favorites on the record as well. Clean Hands - Big anthemic rocker coming close to the end of the record. Probably my fav song on the album, it's about how you can only achieve greatness with "Clean Hands" - which means not doing bad things to others. Love Catastrophe - Straightforward melodic rocker to close the album, love the chorus on this one. It's about going forward from broken relationships and taking a chance with someone totally new, even though you may not expect the romance to come about. Mr. Long Gone (Bonus Track for digital release in North America) - This is a really cool rocker, a la Mr. Big, that we wrote during the "Love Catastrophe" sessions. It's about having a down-and-out friend that you try so hard to help get on the right road!   MELODIC BRIEFS: The first of two new Cold Chisel songs can be heard here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYl49c3NpnE. The 2 new tracks will be part of a new Best Of release from the Aussie rockers before a new studio album is released in 2012. Concert Review for Cinderella and supports: theywillrockyou.com/2011/08/concert-review-cinderella-john-corabi-mass-club-casino-hampton-beach-nh. Santagata has just finished their video for Too Late For Love, which is slated to appear on Hysteria: A Millennium tribute to Def Leppard due out on Versailles Records late fall/winter 2011. www.youtube.com/watch?v=kl28cG8dzuc / www.santagatamusic.com / www.facebook.com/santagatamusic. INTERVIEW BRIEFS: A new George Thorogood interview recorded last week: youtu.be/9tbYNeBzyiI. Get Ready To Roll! is proud to bring you an exclusive interview with guitar maestro Uli Jon Roth. Uli is soon to set out on the 3 Guitar Heroes tour, which lifts off in the USA in October. This tour will see Uli Jon Roth, Michael Schenker and Leslie West sharing the stage in a celebration of the guitar craft which has earned each of these musicians legendary status in the rock world. Uli talks about the chemistry between the three artists, about the new Sky guitars he'll be using on this tour, and gives some hints as to what we can expect to hear in the set. Read the full interview at www.getreadytoroll.com/interviews/ulijonroth.htm. Edguy bassist Tobias Exxel, or Eggi, checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about the band's brand new release Age of the Joker; some of the specific tracks on the release like Robin Hood and 2 Out of 7, shooting the video for Robin Hood; upcoming tour plans and if they are going to make it back to the States; why Americans ears may or may not be as good as European ears; and a whole lot more. To hear the interview, head to:hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/tobias-exxel-of-edguy/ ELECTRIC MARY SIGN WITH LISTENABLE AND TOUR EUROPE: Aussie classic rockers Electric Mary are coming back with a brand new album on Oct 17th (in limited edition CD/ full live DVD) on Listenable records and after having shared states with kings of the music genre like Whitesnake, Alice Cooper, Deep Purple , Electric Mary will tour Europe as follows. Vendredi 30 Septembre - Live @ Ferrailleur - Nantes (Fr). Lundi 3 Octobre - Live @ Ampli salle de la route du son- Billère (Fr) Mercredi 5 Octobre - Live @ Le Korigan - Luynes (Fr) Jeudi 6 Octobre - Live @ Le Brin de Zinc - Chambéry (Fr) Vendredi 7 Octobre - Live @ West Rock - Cognac (Fr) Samedi 8 Octobre - Live @ Chez Paulette - Pagney en Lorraine (Fr) Mardi 11 octobre - Live@Le Glazzart - Paris (Fr) Mercredi 12 Octobre - Live@ Gijón Monkey Club (Fr) Jeudi 13 Octobre - Live @ Boite live - Madrid (Es) Vendredi 14 Octobre - Live @ Serjos Zona Rock - Huesca (Es) Samedi 15 Octobre - Live @ Rockzone - Barcelona (Es) Mardi 18 Octobre - Live @Empreinte - Savigny le Temple (Fr) Jeudi 20 Octobre - Live @ Le Magasin 4 - Bruxelles (Be) Vendredi 21 Octobre - Live @ Le Labo Sonore - Cherizay (Fr) Samedi 22 octobre - Live @ 3 Orfèvres - Tours (Fr) Jeudi 27 Octobre - Live @ Silex - Auxerre (Fr) Vendredi 28 Octobre - Live @ Spirit of 66 - Verviers (Be) Samedi 29 Octobre - Live @ Le Pacific Rock - Cergy (Fr) Dimanche 30 Octobre - Live @ Ajaccio (Fr) Vendredi 4 novembre - Live @ Amalgame Club - Yverdon-Les-Bains (Suisse) Samedi 5 novembre - Live @ La Bifurk - Grenoble (Fr) WebLinks: www.myspace.com/electricmary / www.facebook.com/electricmary?v=info / www.facebook.com/electricmaryfrance. TWO ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM IAN ANDERSON AND JETHRO TULL: Ian Anderson performs Thick As A Brick in its entirety for the first time since 1972, going out for a world tour commencing in Great Britain in Mid-April. Then, it's on to European countries in the late Spring and Summer before landing in the USA for two tours spanning September, October and early November. This tour will feature a more theatrical production with video, additional musicians and a troupe of dancing elephants. (Just kidding about the dancing elephants: they don't dance...) In 1972, Ian wrote the music (and the lyrics which were credited at the time to the fictitious character, 8 year-old Gerald Bostock, whose parents lied about his age) and recorded with Jethro Tull, Thick As A Brick. The record became a number one Billboard album and enjoyed huge commercial success in most countries of the world. The album featured only one song, lasting nearly 45 minutes. To accommodate the album on LP vinyl and cassette, the seamless track was split on both sides of the record. It reached number one on the US Billboard Pop Albums chart. Tull then dutifully took the somewhat theatrical show on the road in the Great Britain, USA, and other world markets. Since 1972, the album has never been performed in its entirety although a few minutes of the material have been a regular repertoire staple in both Tull and IA solo shows over the years. Now, scheduled for performance again in 2012, Ian will take the original album to a theatre near you. It will be performed in its entirety in a theatrical setting with band, and additional guests. Background on Gerald Bostock: From Wikipedia, the free encyclopaedia: Gerald Bostock is the fictional author of the poem used as the lyrics for the 1972 Jethro Tull album Thick as a Brick. The album cover is designed to look like a small village newspaper, the St. Cleve Chronicle & Linwell Advertiser. The front page story describes how eight-year-old Gerald, nicknamed "Little Milton," received an award for his poem. Due Fall 2011, The Aqualung 40th Anniversary Collector's and Special Editions "Aqualung" is Tull's most recognized album and a definitive rock classic. Now, 40 years after its release, this prized recording gets a collection worthy of its historic status. This is not a simplistic rehashed remastering aimed at squeezing another few pounds, dollars, euros, etc. out of the recording. Want proof? The limited collector's edition's contents include: o 180g heavyweight LP, 2CD, DVD, and Blu-Ray including various unreleased materials, a new stereo mix, the original Quad mix, and 5.1 DTS and Dolby Digital Surround. The "special edition" includes just the two CDs. o 12"x12" 48-page hardback book featuring liner notes and an interview with Ian, Q&A with engineer John Burns, Don Lawson (initially written for 'Classic Rock Presents Prog' in March 2011), memoirs from band members (Jeffrey Hammond-Hammond (Bass Guitar), Martin Barre (Guitar), Clive Bunker (Drums), Barrie Barlow (Drummer following Clive Bunker's departure), Glenn Cornick (Original Bassist on early recordings), Terry Ellis (Manager)) and Jennie Franks (Ian's first wife who wrote the lyrics for the title track), rare photos, notes on the new mixes by producer Steven Wilson, and Billie Ritchie (from 60s rock band & label mate 'Clouds'), rare photos, album lyrics, and more. Ian's Comments "Well - it's finally here! The superb remixes by Porcupine Tree's Steven Wilson in both stereo and 5.1 Surround. Plus the re-mastered original mixes, bonus tracks, alternative versions and takes of the classic Aqualung material from 40 years ago. When I wrote and recorded these songs and slaved over a hot audio-mixer in Island Records' Basing Street Studios, I never thought we we would be celebrating this 40th Anniversary release, soon to be released in October. But you can't keep a good song down. Many of these are still favourites on stage today in our concerts throughout the world. I hope you enjoy this splendid EMI release and, if there's someone out there you really love, then why not treat them to the Collector's Edition in all its glory. Or, come to think of it, if there's someone out there you really dislike, then the same might apply. Each to his own. Me - I kinda like it.... For those of you easily confused about such things, a 'remix' is not the same as a 're-master.' Remixing involves going back to the original studio multi-track masters and balancing and perfecting the sound on all the individual instrumental and vocal tracks and creating from them a new stereo or 5.1 surround master. 'Re-mastering' is just the cleaning up and making a new copy of the original stereo master - which usually results in a clearer and more sparkling listening experience than the original, when CDs were usually just the vinyl master copied straight to the then new CD medium. These days, with digital audio, we can afford to get more dynamic range and frequency response compared to the vinyl album and (God forbid) cassette versions of old. Many thanks to Tim Chacksfield and Steve Davis at EMI for all their hard work and initiative in making this happen. And to the enthusiastic and respectful Steven Wilson, who has just sent me the remixes of another album to listen to, which he has been working on. But, another year, another story..." ~ Ian Anderson, Jethro Tull.

 

 

Friday, August 26, 2011

A WELCOME RETURN FOR SHY: After a long wait, Shy fans can finally celebrate the announcement of their new studio album, simply titled Shy, due for release in Europe October 7 via Escape Music. Shy have been a mainstay in the melodic rock scene right back to the mid-1980s. But one fundamental difference separates Shy and the rest, they have stood the test of time and come shining through time and time again. Crowned by the success of Def Leppard, Bon Jovi and Europe, the 80s were the golden era of AOR and for a while every record company craved its own poodle-haired, tight-trousered offspring. Shy made albums for two different major labels and for a while seemed in with a genuine shot at glory, but like all the above ended up biting the dust. Before adopting the name of Shy, their roots lay in the altogether heavier, twin-guitar metal of Trojan. However, even in 1982 they sensed the decade's wind of change and set out to leave pub-metal behind. They received an offer to make an album for Hull-based independent Ebony Records on the day after a helium-voiced ball of energy called Tony Mills was sacked by his own ex-band. Their debut album Once Bitten… Twice Shy was described by Kerrang! as "perhaps the greatest English pomp rock album of all time". Already having gigged with UFO, Magnum, Twisted Sister and Pallas, the band then added high profile supports with Bon Jovi, Meat Loaf and Gary Moore. Before undertaking their all-important third album, 1987's Excess All Areas, RCA relocated Shy to Los Angeles to soak up the Californian hard rock radio vibe. Such was the quality of Excess All Areas that just like FM's Tough It Out and Native Sons by Strangeways, its inability to make stars of its creators now seems almost unfeasible. "In any genre, there will only ever be a couple of winners," reflects Steve Harris. "But it's surprising how many people talk of that album in hushed tones and don't actually own a copy – or only bought the reissue." In the following years a lot of changes occurred and Shy went through many changes. A settled line-up completed by keyboard player Joe Basketts and drummer Bob Richards more recently played one of the sets of the day at the second Firefest show in Nottingham alongside the likes of House Of Lords, Danger Danger and Harem Scarem. The event's packed attendance confirmed that AOR still has a fiercely devoted niche following in Britain, though strangely Shy claim to still be discovered by new followers. Frontman Tony Mills has left the band for Norwegians TNT, and Lee Small (Phenomena / Surveillance) has taken the mike stand. Shy have lost none of their appeal and this new CD is a burst of fresh air, they sound at their very best and this self titled release is a crowning achievement that will set the standard for all others. Track listening: 1-Land of a Thousand Lies 2- So Many Tears 3- Ran out of Time 4- Breathe 5- Blood on the Line 6- Pray 7- Only for the Night 8- Live for me 9- Over You 10- Sanctuary 11-Save Me 12- Union Of souls. Band: Lee Small – Vocals; Steve Harris – Lead & Rhythm Guitars; Roy Davis – Bass; Joe Basketts – Keyboards; Bob Richards – Drums. Produced By Shy and Andy Faulkner. Mixed by Simon Hanhart (Bryan Adams, Marillion, Saxon, Asia, Elton John, David Bowie, Fate) Mastered by Tim Debney at Fluid Mastering. Preview the album right now, with two exclusive edits of the tracks: Blood On The Line and So Many Tears.   FRONTIERS ON YOUTUBE: Two new YouTube promos from Frontiers Records are available to view. The first being an EPK for Sebastian Bach's upcoming solo release; the second being for the latest Frontiers Records releases, out this week.   JOURNEY & STEVE PERRY ON VINYL: Journey's Greatest Hits Vol 2 is coming your way on vinyl, CD and of course as a digital download also. And that's not all! Greatest Hits Vol 1 and Steve Perry's Street Talk have also been remastered and will be available as a digital download and on vinyl. The special gatefold double 180-gram virgin vinyl edition of GH Vol 1 & 2 and Street Talk will be available on Nov 1, 2011 along with the CD of GH Vol 2. fanasylum.com/steveperry. CHICKENFOOT MEGA-EDITION FOR ALBUM 2: Chickenfoot fans have a great special edition of the band's upcoming release III (cover art below...yes, that's it!) due September 23. The European limited release will feature 2CDs and 2DVDs plus a T-Shirt. Details of each disc are as follows: Disc 1 (New Album): 01. Last Temptation 02. Alright Alright 03. Different Devil 04. Up Next 05. Lighten Up 06. Come Closer 07. Three And A Half Letters 08. Big Foot 09. Dubai Blues 10. Something Going Wrong. Disc 2 (The Debut): 01. Avenida Revolucion 02. Soap On A Rope 03. Sexy Little Thing 04. Oh Yeah 05. Runnin' Out 06. Get It Up 07. Down The Drain 08. My Kinda Girl 09. Learning To Fall 10. Turnin' Left 11. Future In The Past 12. Bitten By The Wolf. Disc 3 (DVD): 01. EPK 02. Big Foot - Music Video 03. Turning Left - Live in Phoenix 04. Sexy Little Thing - Music Video. Disc 4 (DVD)(live at Montreux 2009): 01. Avenida Revolucion 02. Soap On A Rope 03. Sexy Little Thing 04. Oh Yeah 05. Runnin' Out 06. Get It Up 07. Down The Drain 08. My Kinda Girl 09. Learning To Fall 10. Turnin' Left 11. Future In The Past 12. Bitten By The Wolf 13. Soap On A Rope.   KELLY HANSEN CHECKS OUT ROCK OF AGES: When will Foreigner 2011 meet Foreigner 1980's? It happened this week at the Helen Hayes Theatre in NYC, as Foreigner front man Kelly Hansen (pictured below on right) surprised the cast of the smash Broadway musical Rock of Ages by stopping by to take in a performance and visit cast members backstage. In photo below: Hansen (right) is pictured outside the Theatre with Joel Hoekstra, who plays guitar for both the Rock of Ages band and Night Ranger. Rock of Ages at the Helen Hayes Theatre Broadway is a full-out celebration of great 80s rock music, and the musical includes Foreigner mega-hits 'I Want To Know What Love Is' and 'I've Been Waiting for A Girl Like You.' Hansen and his powerful vocals represent the revamped Foreigner with its unique, explosive new style. Foreigner 2011 is the brainchild of award-winning visionary maestro Mick Jones, Foreigner founder. With front man Hansen's unforgettable stage style and distinctive voice, Foreigner music has been pushed deeper. A September release of the band's 3-disc set, "Feels Like The First Time" will include an acoustic CD with Hansen performing Elvis classics. A new song, 'Save Me,' co-written by Mick Jones and celebrity DJ Samantha Ronson, will be astounding and will celebrate the new style of Foreigner 2011, the classic band with more blazing rock music, ferociously delivered, stronger than ever before. For more information go to www.foreigneronline.com or to Hansen's website www.kellyhansenrocks.com.   DOWNLOAD SECOND NEW ANDY TAYLOR TRACK: Andy Taylor has released another track for download via a promotional site choises.net. Download it for free now. You can Read about the track @ The Taylor Tank go here: thetaylortank.com.   FRAZE GANG RECORDING ALBUM NUMBER 2: Fraze Gang have been holed up in the studio in the last few months writing songs for the upcoming new CD entitled Fraze Gang 2. The band had 29 songs to choose from & have narrowed it down to the final 10 of which will appear on the upcoming CD. Included on the CD will be the 4 singles Fraze Gang recently released and 6 brand new songs of which 4 have already been recorded. The band is hoping for a early 2012 release with a new video. The CD is being mixed by the legendary Beau Hill (Alice Cooper, Ratt, Warrant…) Fraze Gang are also pleased to announce the addition of a new full time member to the group, guitarist Derek McGowan. Derek has been playing live shows with the guys helping fill out the sound & the band are so impressed with his dedication, passion & sheer mind blowing talent that the band offered the gig to Derek of which he gratefully accepted. You will be able to hear Derek tear it up on the upcoming new CD. Fraze Gang frontman Greg Fraser was recently quoted on the addition of Derek: "Derek is the real deal as far as up & coming guitar hero's go, he can shred with the best of them and is a welcome addition the group." When asked about joining Fraze Gang, Derek had this to say: "I am a huge fan of Brighton Rock! I have been since I was 8 years old. 'Take a Deep Breath' is still one of my favorite albums of all time. In fact, the first riff I asked my guitar teacher to show me when I was 11 was 'Power Overload!' Their music is very much a part of my childhood and teen years. In 2002 Brighton Rock was asked to reunite for the ZRock Festival in Manchester, England. Guitarist Greg Fraser was unable to attend. Instead of declining the gig, BR drummer Mark Cavarzan asked me to fill in for Greg and I literally went nuts! By bringing me into the fold, it brought me the opportunity to play with Fraze Gang years later. It was a dream come true. BR treated me so great and the fans were unbelievable! I am very lucky to have had that opportunity to play with them. I spent a month of rehearsals with BR at Stevie's house and I kept pinching myself! The sessions for the new Fraze Gang album have been awesome! Playing guitar alongside Greg has been not only exciting but a great learning experience! The songs Rock! I can't wait for the new release! Greg wrote riffs that are permanently imbedded in my mind, music that spoke to me as a kid growing up. It is an honor to play on his new music and write ideas together! I'm a lucky guy!!"   ANDROMEDA SIGNS WITH INNER WOUND RECORDINGS: Inner Wound Recordings are proud to announce the signing of the Swedish progressive metal band Andromeda to the label for their up-coming album, scheduled for a late 2011 release. More details regarding this album will be made official during the coming month. Andromeda with several albums and tours under their belt is definitely one of the most successful progressive metal bands in Scandinavia and Europe. This fall they've got festival appearances like Generation Prog, Denmark Rock Festival and Slottsskogen goes progressive lined up, and when the new album hits the shelves many more shows will be announced. Check out Andromeda online: www.andromedaonline.com / www.facebook.com/pages/Andromeda/103701379666615. CAPSTONE MUSIC & ENT ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF "COMPLICATED" FROM CRAVING STRANGE: With a sound that's like a chopped salad of Foo Fighters, Jimmy Eat World, and Buckcherry. Craving Strange serve up edgy yet poppy original rock to your ear holes. Yea….can ya taste it….with your ear holes!! Based in NY, Craving Strange formed in 2008 combining personal and musical backgrounds in rock, pop, alternative, and metal to create music that was intense, fun, diverse, and infectious at the same time. The songs are filled with musical and lyrical hooks, driving rhythms, and honest, thought provoking lyrics. The band itself is a group of creative, talented musicians all working together to give each song its own space and life. Craving Strange has created a sound that is familiar yet totally their own. Complicated Video - youtu.be/tMohGxWWjIs. WebLinks: www.cravingstrange.net / www.reverbnation.com/cravingstrange. SPV ANNOUNCE NEW RIOT ALBUM: Bursting through from New York City at the end of the Seventies with three ground-breaking albums on the trot ('Rock City', 'Narita' and 'Fire Down Under') Riot quickly became one of the biggest cult metal bands in the world. Stunning performances in the UK at the first ever Castle Donington Festival in 1980 and Port Vale the following year, and support slots with Sammy Hagar in Europe and AC/DC in the United States cemented their reputation as the hottest ticket to see. With line-up changes knocking their momentum and the Eighties developing into a Thrash-fest a new-look Riot bounced back in 1988 with the widely-acclaimed 'Thundersteel'. Although the faces might have looked unfamiliar, with only guitarist Mark Reale now left from the band's formative years, the aggression and musicianship remained unrivalled and unchallengeable. With Tony Moore's distinctive vocals, the muscle and might of bassist Don Van Stavern and drummer Bobby Jarzombek powering the songs along, and Reale's precision playing Riot were reborn, and followed 'Thundersteel' two years later with the jaw-dropping 'The Privilege Of Power', an inspiring and at times truly epic album. However, by this time the music world was turning into a very different place, and Riot found themselves struggling against a tide of apathy. Reale continued to guide the ship through the next two decades, delivering albums of consistent, quality metal, culminating in 2006's 'Army Of One' – a true statement of intent, as if one were needed. But the army of one is an army of five once more as Riot's classic 'Thundersteel' and 'Privilege…' line-up has re-united, adding guitarist Mike Flyntz who played in the live band at that time. Signing with SPV/Steamhammer for all territories except Japan, Riot will release their new album "Immortal Soul" on October 28th in Germany, October 31st in Europe and early November in the US and Canada. Riot have also been confirmed as special guests on the first leg of Hammerfall's European tour this winter. The tour kicks off on 26th October in Copenhagen, Denmark, and ends for the five-piece metal machine in Cologne, Germany, on 18th November. This will be the first time the legendary 'Thundersteel' and 'The Privilege Of Power' line-up of Tony Moore (vocals), Mark Reale (guitar), Mike Flyntz (guitar), Don Van Stavern (bass) and Bobby Jarzombek (drums) has played in Europe on a full tour, after the band's celebrated one-off show at the Sweden Rock Festival in 2009. Olly Hahn, A&R at Steamhammer, says: "Mark, Tony, Don, Bobby and Mike are really fired up once more, and "Immortal Soul" will be a true successor to the legacy of 'Thundersteel' and 'Privilege…'. Classic metal will never die, and who did it better than Riot?" WebLinks: www.riotrockcity.com / www.spv.de.   MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Heart - 86 Japan (15 Tracks) - Heart - TN, USA 12-08-85 (11 Tracks, great sound) - John Cougar - Denver 1982 (16 Tracks) - Krokus - Cobo Hall - Detroit 1984 (10 Tracks) Plus these new Video Clips: Mr Big - All The Way Up, Night Ranger - Growin Up In California, Poodles - I Want It All, Down N Outz - England Rocks & Overnight Angels, Steven Tyler - Feels So Good. Join MRX now. MR UPDATES: Just a reminder to folks - MRCD8 pre-orders will all be in the air by Monday. There was a significant delay due to the need to re-print the booklet for the disc. The updated/correct booklet will be included in the packages, leaving the original disc as it was delivered (shrink-wrapped). Riverdogs and Chris Antblad will be the next pre-orders to ship soon! Additional reminder - keep track of MelodicRock.com on Twitter and Facebook for additional news, comments and breaking/exclusive news.

 

 

Thursday, August 25, 2011

DAVID PRATER TALKS MICROBURST STORM CELLS: Acclaimed Record Producer and sound engineer David Prater was kind enough to e-mail me this week with his thoughts on the recent tragedy in Indiana, USA, when a stage collapsed and killed 5, injuring plenty more. Here is his message: "The stage incident in Indiana was caused by a wet Microburst. That's the exact same weather phenomenon we experienced at Rocklahoma 2008. I mean this next statement as no insult to the people in the Indiana disaster but believe it or not the Rocklahoma 2008 Microburst was much worse. Think of it as a stationary Micro Hurricane but extremely localized. A hundred yards away it may feel like nothing took place. We lost two out of three stages but the main stage was totally unaffected. It was built inside a sealable massive military grade staging structure with HUGE sliding doors. It was rated to withstand a much higher sustained wind speed and was capable of completely closing shut in under two or three minutes. All the personnel, lights, backline and sound gear remained cozy and dry. As luck would have it, myself and four other fellas were trapped in the main mix tower 20-30 off the orchestra level trying to protect the FOH equipment with plastic tarps. Miraculously we didn't lose a thing. The reason Rocklahoma 2008's fatalities and injuries were non-existent was because it all occurred during a lull in the Saturday afternoon set changes. There were far less people at that time of day than there were at Indiana. Even still, those of us working were yelling, "Everybody! Get out of here! There's some really bad weather gonna hit us in about 10 or 15 minutes!" When it happened everyone was already running away from all the stages whereas in Indiana most of the attendees were close to the stage and grouped together. The poor souls just never had a chance. It sickens me that these people and their families are suffering so badly. God bless them and all their loved ones. Most open trussed stages without a roof are rated for winds up to around 75 mph. All stages like this must be rated high enough for outdoor concert insurance coverage. In weather events like this in some places the wind can get close to 90-100 mph for very short periods. That was the case in Rocklahoma 2008. I bet this is exactly what happened in the Indiana tragedy. With the wind and a roof this made the whole stage into a giant kite. The weird thing about a wet Microburst is the whole thing takes place in less than 10-15 minutes and is immediately followed by...nothing. Just an eerie dead silence." ~ David Prater. MICHAEL SCHENKER BUILDS A NEW TEMPLE: The new Michael Schenker album Temple Of Rock is released in Europe September 23/USA September 26 and features the line-up of: Michael Schenker - Guitars; Michael Voss - Vocals; Herman Rarebell - Drums; Pete Way - Bass; Wayne Findlay - Keys. Check out the firts single Miss Claustrophobia here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6YDXtAotNE. Track List: 01. Intro 02. How Long 03. The End Of An Era 04. Saturday Night 05. Fallen Angel 06. Hangin' On 07. With You 08. Miss Claustrophobia 09. Scene Of Crime 10. Lovers Sinfony-Speed 11. Stormin' In 12. Speed 13. Before The Devil Knows You're Dead 14. How Long (guitar battle version) 15. Remember (bonus track for Japan).   BLACK MAJESTY TO WORK WITH ROLAND GRAPOW FOR NEW ALBUM & UPCOMING BLIND GUARDIAN TOUR DATES: Australian melodic power metal band Black Majesty will begin recording their fifth album with Roland Grapow (Masterplan) at Grapow Studios in Slovakia in October 2011. The new album is scheduled to be released through their label Limb Music in June 2012. Some of the song titles set to appear on the new album include The Fallen, Edge Of The World, The Killing Hand, Lykan and Journey To The Soul. Other news sees Black Majesty set to support Germany's Blind Guardian on their upcoming Australian tour. Live dates include: 30th Sept. 2011 – The Factory Theatre (all ages) – Sydney, Australia 2nd Oct. 2011 – Bilboard (over 18's), Melbourne, Australia 3rd Oct. 2011 – Bilboard (over 18's), Melbourne, Australia WebLink: www.blackmajesty.com. LOVE.MIGHT.KILL: "BRACE FOR IMPACT" WILL BE RELEASED IN JAPAN: Love.Might.Kill's highly acclaimed debut-album Brace For Impact will be released in Japan through Hydrant Music on November, 16th. The Japanese-edition of the album features a bonus-track, called Satans Den. "Brace For Impact" Japanese-edition-tracklist: 01. Tomorrow Never Comes 02. Calm Before The Storm 03. Pretty Little Mess 04. Caught In A Dream 05. Satans Den (Bonus-Track/Japan Only) 06. Through The Dawn 07. Brace For Impact 08. We Are The Weak 09. Down To Nowhere 10. Pray To Your God 11. Reach Out 12. The Answer 13. Will Love Remain. The European release of the bands debut-album was on June, 17th. Overwhelmed by the reactions to their very first video "Pretty little mess" the band is working on their second video-clip "Down to nowhere", which will be released in autumn. "Pretty little mess" featured the very melodic side of the band while "Down to nowhere" is a heavy-uptempo-rocker. www.youtube.com/v/RG9uqXm7JKM. For further information please go to: www.lovemightkill.com / www.michaelehre.de. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: Lots added to the CD Showcase today from Metal/Prog/Instrumental label Lion Music: Consortium Project 5, Vargton Projekt, Gronholm, Arachnes, Niels Vejilt, James Byrd and Elias Viljanen. Also added is a showcase for the great new AOR album from White Widdow. Check them out.

 

 

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

AOR HEAVEN ANNOUNCE TWO GRAND ALBUMS FOR OCTOBER: AOR Heaven have announced their next two scheduled releases, due out in Europe October 28. They are: Grand Illusion - Prince Of Paupers - A year after the release of "Brand New World", it's time for the 6th Grand Illusion studio album and which this time is titled, Prince of Paupers. On this release, the Grand Illusion core trio consists of Anders Rydholm, Peter Sundell and Per Svensson who are joined by Steve Lukather (Toto), Jay Graydon (Airplay), Tim Pierce (Rick Springfield), Gregg Bissonette (David Lee Roth), Paul Buckmaster (Elton John & David Bowie), Muris Varajic, Kjell Klaesson and Staffan Stavert. The songs for the new album, were as usual, written and produced by Anders Rydholm and most of the lyrics were penned by Arlene Matza-Jackson. Grand Illusion started 25 years ago in 1986 under the name Promotion and released 2 albums 1997 and 1998. In 2001, the band changed their name to Grand illusion and started a more active record carrier - and during a period of 3 years, they released 4 albums. In 2005 the band took a time out and reunited 5 years later with the release of the 2010 album, "Brand New World". Now it's 2011 and 25 years since Anders, Peter and Per have started to play together - so what could be better than to celebrate that with the release of Prince Of Paupers? Track list: 1. Gates Of Fire, 2. Better Believe It, 3. Prince Of Paupers, 4. So Faraway, 5. St. Theresa's Love, 6. Through This War, 7. Eyes Of Ice, 8. Gone, 9. Believe In Miracles, 10. On And On, 11. Under The Wire, 12. Winds of Change. Soundfiles in advance: Better Believe It / Gates Of Fire / Through This War. More on the web: www.grand-illusion.se.   Grand Design - Idolizer - Grand Design was formed in 2006 by vocalist/producer Pelle Saether, Peter Ledin (guitars) & Richard Holmgren (drums). In the following years, the guys worked hard on capturing that big 80's sound and songs. Grand Design's 1st album "Time Elevation" was completed in early 2009, during the recordings Anders Modd (bass) & Dennis Vestman (git) completed the line-up. The release gained massive success and was awarded 'best album' and 'best song' by BeRockRadio and received numerous top 10 positions for "best album 2009". Several concerts including the prestigious FireFest in Nottingham, U.K proved that Grand Design can deliver live. Pelle Saether comments: "Since we all love Def Leppard, it will always be an influence we use to spice up things." Now, two years later, it's time for Grand Design's second album #2 – "Idolizer". The recording process was handled similar to the first album, the line-up is intact and the sound and songs are in the same style. Pelle says: "We knew we had found a formula to make an 80's rock record work in the 21st century – so why change it?" The record contains 10 songs and contains everything from fast pace rock tracks to slow love ballads. All having a larger than life production, and on top, the famous Grand Design big choirs. With songs like "Get On With Action", "OughtoGraugh" and "Your Love's A Runaway", "Idolizer" is gonna be the follow up the fans expect. Grand Design will prove again that the songs and sound of 80's rock belongs into your players and onto the big stages. Track list: 01 Get On With The Action, 02 Change Me up, 03 OughtoGraugh, 04 Your Love's A Runaway, 05 Stealin' My Love, 06 Let's Rawk The Nite, 07 Addiction For Love, 08 Idolize Me, 09 Rock Back To The 80s, 10 You're Gonna Dig On It. Soundfiles in advance: Get On With The Action / Idolize Me / Your Love's A Runaway. More on the web: www.reverbnation.com/granddesignsweden / listn.to/GrandDesign.   AOR Heaven have wired 5000 Euros to the Red Cross as the first payment from the income off the "Rock For Japan" double CD on August 15. More updates on this project will follow soon. SAMMY HAGAR TALKS CHICKENFOOT AND LAUGHS AT VAN HALEN: From Billboard.com: "Sammy Hagar says he didn't exactly plan to record and release the all-star Chickenfoot's second album this year. "The reason Chickenfoot had to go in was because of Chad," Hagar tells Billboard.com, meaning drummer Chad Smith, who was also busy recording the Red Hot Chili Peppers' new "I'm With You," which comes out Aug. 30 -- two weeks before "Chickenfoot III's" Sept. 13 release. "We had a window where he was available, and I was going, 'F*ck, I don't want to be rushed into it. I was in Cabo (San Lucas, Mexico), summer vacation was coming up, I was just planning my time off. I had my feet deep in the sand, and I was going to vacation this whole summer. Everybody was trying to get me to go in and do this Chickenfoot record, but I just didn't feel like going into Chickenfoot mode." But other voices -- including bandmates Smith, Joe Satriani and Michael Anthony -- and Hagar's late manager John Carter prevailed to bring the album into being. And the Red Rocker is pleased it did. "We were so comfortable making the music," Hagar says. "We got to know each other on the first album (in 2009) and then touring for it. Joe and I got to know each other as writers. I struggle my ass off on the lyrics, 'cause the music is so good. I can't just start talking about girls and cars, y'know? So I wrote 'Up Next' five different times. I wrote 'Different Devil' five different times...and once everything was done I could look at it and go, 'F*ck, this is good.'" As for the "III" title for a second album, Hagar says the group was adamantly opposed to calling the 10-song set "Chickenfoot II," and Smith came up with "Chickenfoot IV" as "a joke," but once the album was finished it realized "this album is not a joke," according to Hagar. " 'Chickenfoot IV' is a joke. 'Chickenfoot III' is kind of a joke, but mostly it's just fun." Touring is next up for the quartet, which will be without Smith due to the Red Hot Chili Peppers' commitments. Chickenfoot has been working with veteran skin-pounder Kenny Aronoff (John Mellencamp, Melissa Etheridge, John Fogerty), who was Smith's personal choice but hasn't been officially announced as the choice. "I'm trying to act like he's not the guy, but we all know he's the guy now," Hagar says with a laugh. "We tried him. He's f***ing great. He's really solid, and he's got fire." With the lead single, "Big Foot," already out, Hagar says Chickenfoot intends to "road-test" its new material with a five-city promotional run at the beginning of November, and he's already anticipating a full-scale tour to follow. "Right now we're getting all these offers," he says, "and, y'know, I don't want to tour," he says. "I do not want to pack my bags up for six weeks and go out...I do not want to go on a plane for South America or Japan to work. But when I listen to this music, I go, 'I got to.' I just can't see letting something this good not be played. So we'll probably start accepting shows." This is also an anniversary year for former Van Halen bandmates Hagar and Anthony -- 25 years since the release of "5150," Hagar's first with the band. Hagar still considers the chart-topping, six-time platinum set "a great album" but, as he made abundantly clear in his autobiography "Red: My Uncensored Life in Rock," there's no love lost with the Van Halen camp. "I'm so disappointed in those guys," Hagar notes. "I'm not even angry. I'm just disappointed. I really don't like them anymore, and I can't tell you how sad it is to me that what we had as creative guys, and as a friendship, how it just went away. Mike and I had the biggest laugh when they canceled (the Soundwave Festival in) Australia. He was like, 'I thought you told me they had canceled a couple months ago,' and I was, 'No, no, I told you they announced it.' 'Oh, they announced it,' and we just cracked up. They kill me." ArticleLink: www.billboard.com/#/news/sammy-hagar-chickenfoot-is-no-joke-but-van-1005325392.story. MELODIC BRIEFS: A book tribute to Jani Lane is currently in the works! The book will be an unauthorized biography that will follow Jani through the years, and feature interviews with those who were close to him. We are currently accepting photograph submissions! Check out www.JaniLaneBook.com for more info. Alice Cooper - I'll Bite Your Face Off (Official Music Video): www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HdIA_YJVck&NR=1. UK rockers Sacred Heart are back with an official single Nothing At All. The song is taken from forthcoming album Propaganda (due October 3) with the digital single available from September 12. Check out the video to "Nothing At All" now at www.sacredheartband.com or their official www.youtube.com/sacredheartband - believe the Propaganda.....   OZ ROCK COMING YOUR WAY IN 2011: Time for an update on some upcoming Aussie rock. Modern pop/rocker Shannon Noll has a new album due also. The single is Switch Me On. Check it out at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSmDcaVSmzQ. Modern melodic rocker Michael Paynter is on the verge of his debut album release. Sounds like a great album coming up. The new single is How Sweet It Is and can be previewed here: itunes.apple.com/au/album/how-sweet-it-is-single/id442879289. (Love The Fall was his debut single: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOfBwSYvIic.   xx Sony Music Australia is proud to announce the release of the new John Farnham album The Acoustic Chapel Sessions September 30th, 2011. This special CD+DVD will feature some of John's most loved songs. John Farnham recorded his new album The Acoustic Chapel Sessions in Melbourne in July 2011 at Chapel Off Chapel. The entire recording process was filmed resulting in a stunning CD+DVD package. The CD consists of eleven of John's classic songs stripped back and in acoustic mode, including 'Chain Reaction', 'Pressure Down', 'Age of Reason' and more. The DVD package includes eight songs plus interviews with John and the band and behind-the-scenes footage. John Farnham said of The Acoustic Chapel Sessions "We wanted to rework some of the songs that we have been doing on stage for the last 25 years. It's always difficult to rework something that people are very used to, having said that we have had a lot of fun doing it". Glenn Wheatley, Manager of John Farnham said "This recording has just given me goose bumps; it's amazing seeing the songs stripped right back and all acoustic. I wonder why we didn't think about doing this earlier." The release of The Acoustic Chapel Sessions coincides with the 25th Anniversary of Whispering Jack, Australia's highest selling and most successful album ever. To celebrate this milestone John will embark on his National Whispering Jack 25 Years On in October. John Farnham and his band will perform the first half of the show unplugged featuring very special versions of some of his biggest hits as heard on the new album The Acoustic Chapel Sessions. The second half of the show will feature the Whispering Jack album performed in its entirety for the first time ever. This show is a must see for any music fan. Track Listing: CD: 1. Pressure Down 2. Reasons 3. Chain Reaction 4. Playing To Win 5. You're The Voice 6. Freedom 7. Two Strong Hearts 8. Age of reason 9. Talk Of The Town 10. Simple Life 11. Hearts On Fire. DVD: 1. Talk of The Town 2. Chain Reaction 3. Two Strong Hearts 4. Pressure Down 5. Hearts On Fire 6. Simple Life 7. Age of Reason 8. Playing To Win.   JUDGE TOSSES ROCKER'S SUIT VS. BRAD DELP'S EX: From The Boston Herald: Judge tosses rocker's suit vs. Brad Delp's ex. Rules her statements fall short of defaming Scholz. A superior court judge has thrown out a lawsuit brought by Tom Scholz, the founder of the rock band Boston, against the ex-wife of the group's longtime lead singer, Brad Delp. In a 12-page decision, Superior Court Judge John C. Cratsley ruled that Scholz failed to present proof that Micki Delp defamed him and held that Scholz's allegations lacked sufficient evidence to go to trial. Micki Delp is the ex-wife of Brad Delp, the former lead singer for Boston who committed suicide in March 2007. Days after Brad's death, Micki Delp spoke to the Herald's Inside Track about her views of the pressures her former husband was feeling in the period shortly before his suicide. ArticleLink: bostonherald.com/news/regional/view.bg?articleid=1360676.

 

 

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

GARY JOHN BARDEN REACHES HIS ELEVENTH HOUR: Escape Music have announced details of their next release due October 21 - Gary John Barden's new solo album Eleventh Hour. Songs: 1- Baghdad 2- Fallen By The Wayside 3- Child Of Sorrow 4- What You Wanna Do 5- We Are Dead 6- All In 7- Blackmail 8- Shine A Light On Me 9- Easy Does It 10- Before The Eyes Of The World 11- Don't Take Me For A Loser. Produced by: Michael Voss / Recorded and Mixed at Kidroom Recording Studios. Download exclusive preview track: What You Wanna Do. Gary Barden belongs to THE voice of British hard rock. The first time Barden appeared in the scene was as part of the newly formed MSG (Michael Schenker Group) founded by the former Scorpions guitarist of the same name. Their first collaboration resulted in the highly acclaimed album "The Michael Schenker Group" which was released in 1980. Besides the great songs and the great guitar output Barden's voice was one of the reasons why this album became a huge success and allowed the band to hit the road in Europe, Japan and the USA. Their second album "MSG" saw the light of day in 1981 and followed an even more melodic direction than its predecessor. After the following world tour Barden was informed that he was no longer part of the band and replacement was found soon in ex-Rainbow singer Graham Bonnet. Chrysalis, however, released a live disc recorded in Japan by the original MSG entitled "One Night At Budokan". Searching for a new band, Barden started to write some songs with the late Thin Lizzy guitarist Gary Moore which later on ended up on Moore's "Corridor of Power" release. Their working period was short and so was the collaboration between Bonnet and Schenker. Bonnet sang on the 1982 record "Assault Attack" but Barden was back with MSG for some live appearances including Reading Festival in the same year and the 1983 record "Built to Destroy". The label's pressure to steer more into a commercial direction made the band quit business in 1984. Barden moved on and found a new home in the business together with ex-Thin Lizzy six-string Brian Robertson and the band Statetrooper, who put out their highly acclaimed self-titled debut album in 1987 and played a couple of live shows in the following months. Statetrooper was reissued on CD by Escape Music (ESM095). After a long break Barden returned to the scene with Praying Mantis' "The Power of Ten" and the live album "Captured Alive in Tokyo City" (1996). In 2000, Barden hit the road again for a couple of live shows with Company Of Snakes and founded the band Silver together with Michael Voss (Casanova) and Bernie Tormé (Ian Gillan). Statetrooper finally re-united in 2004 and put out the classy new record "The Calling". The Escape Music album "Past & Present" (ESM106) marked the first solo album by Gary Barden and offered a very personal collection of new, exciting interpretations of some all-time MSG classics, a selection of songs that both suited Gary Barden and MSG fans! With his long time pal Michael Voss (Casanova, Bonfire) and a couple of friends he went back to the roots to perform his bluesy smoky songs that will touch your soul and are exemplified on the release "Agony and the Xtasy" (ESM128). In 2007 the more rockier "Love and War" (ESM161) was released by Escape Music and it has been a long anticipated wait for the next chapter. Gary now presents us with "Eleventh Hour" which features 11 tracks of hard rock brilliance. These new songs are fresh and exciting and Gary has poured his heart and soul into them. Once again Michael Voss is ever present and the end result is just perfect. This is a hard hitting rock album that highlights what a great singer Gary is, his contribution to the British rock scene is just legendary. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   AWAKE TO RELEASE SECOND ALBUM 'FOREVER MORE' ON OCTOBER 14: Back 4 years after their label debut, UK progressive metal act Awake return with their brand new opus Forever More via Lion Music on October 14. Taking a step onwards from their debut Illumination, Awake have delivered a heavier grittier sound second time round that retains the melodies and depth of its critically acclaimed predecessor. Forever More also marks the first album recorded with new guitar duo, the brothers Andy and Steven Coles who have brought stability to the band not to mention bringing a new dimension to heavier sound heard on the new album. With a score of live dates including tours with Evergrey and Magnum under their belts, not to mention live sessions on BBC Radio, Awake have been going from strength to strength in the run up to the new albums creation. The journey for this album started around a year after Illumination was released. The bands former guitarist left (Richard Hall) and the group were keen to move on with new members when writing the new album. After thorough and extensive auditioning Andy Coles joined around June 2008 and the early ideas for the new album were formed. Release Me was the first song written and came from a keyboard riff that Craig came in with. Steven Coles joined the band by February 2009 and a break in writing was taken for the band to go out on the road with Magnum again. After this writing resumed and the album took shape over the next year or so. Pre-production took place in February 2010, final adjustments were made (including the inclusion of female backing vocals-Jennifer Hardy), and full recording took place April/May 2010. On Forever More lyrical slant the band state, "We wanted to convey our own personal experiences with love and loss and the hardships you face when you lose someone close to you. We hope that this is something people in general can relate to and we hope they can find meaning within the songs". Forever More is an emotional album written by musicians that are fully dedicated to Awake and pushing the boundaries of what they do. It can on one hand be perceived as a very sad album and there are moments that will touch the heart strings, but at the same time its extremely powerful and meaningful. It's an album we all can relate to and interpret for our own situation, not just in the words but also in the use of keys and guitar. Forever More packs a sonic punch musically and emotionally and its a package that will be warmly welcomed by music fans worldwide on 14th October 2011. Lion Music Promo Page with pre-order links - www.lionmusic.com/cd/forevermore.htm. Full song sample - soundcloud.com/lionmusicrecordlabel/awake-bleed-from-you. Track Listing 01. Intro - Into The Storm. 02. Out Of Control. 03. Release Me. 04. Drift Away. 05. Taken. 06. Closing The Doors. 07. Bleed From You. 08. For The Moment. 09. Hold On. 10. One Wish. 11. King. 12. Forever More. Musicians: Simon Shedwell – Lead and Backing vocals. Andy Coles – Lead and rhythm guitars, backing vocals. Steven Coles - Lead and rhythm guitars. Chris Le Mottee – Bass guitar. Craig Burkitt – Keyboards and Piano. Alex Townsend – Drums and Percussion. Official Websites: www.myspace.com/awakeuk / www.facebook.com/awakeuk. Boguslaw Balcerak's Crylord to release debut album 'Blood Of The Prophets' on October 14. Full song sample: soundcloud.com/lionmusicrecordlabel/boguslaw-balceraks-crylord.   xx PRETTY MAIDS ANNOUNCE THE RECORDING OF THEIR FIRST EVER LIVE DVD: Pretty Maids will finally record their long awaited and by fans and followers much anticipated Live DVD. The Concert and recording will take place at the Z7 venue in Pratteln, Switzerland on Saturday the first of October 2011. On the night the band will play songs from past to present covering 30 year long career of melodic hard rock and heavy metal. Pretty Maids who will still be touring for the remains of 2011 with their highly success full and much praised 2010 Pandemonium album under their belt, hope to see a lot of fans and supporters from all over Europe for ONE HELL!! of an anniversary party. On Oct. 1 The DVD/live CD will be the first ever visual release of the band and will be out on Frontiers Records in early 2012. The DVD release will be followed by a tour during the spring and summer of 2012. Pretty Maids Line-up 2011: Ronnie Atkins: Vocals Ken Hammer: Guitar Rene Shades: Bass Morten Sandager: Keyboards Allan Tchikaja: Drums. Pretty Maids Live 2011 (more to be announced soon): 01.10.2011 CH-Pratteln/Z7 (DVD-recording, special show) 02.10.2011 D- Bochum/Matrix 08.10.2011 SE-Varberg/Rock Plektrum 18.11.2011 DK-Vejle/Torvehallerne 01.12.2011 DK-Copenhagen/Amager Bio WebLink: www.prettymaids.dk.   INTRODUCING NEONFLY: Neonfly were formed in 2008 by guitarist/composer Frederick Thunder. The aim? A machine tooled metal collective fashioned to bring an awesome array of tunes and stunning live performances to audiences everywhere. When you experience a Neonfly gig or hear a Neonfly song nothing else should exist. Stadium metal to the masses and beyond! That's their credo. The band's line up: Frederick Thunder – Guitars & Strategies, Willy Norton - Vocals, Paul Miller - Bass, Patrick Harrington - Guitars and Boris Le Gal - Drums. The band's first EP "Clever Disguise" was released in 2008 and graced by a guest vocal spot from Tony Mills (Ex-Shy/TNT.) The E.P. was well received by the underground metal community and landed the band prestigious support slots in the UK with Power Quest, Adagio and To-Mera amongst others; a slew of European festival dates and headline shows followed in 2009/10. 2010 kicked off with a bang as the band were offered support slots with both H.E.A.T. and Freedom Call. The year culminated with a storming set at Bloodstock Festival where the band was offered the opportunity to release a track, live favorite "Ship With No Sails" on the multi-million selling video game Rockband. We are please to announce it is now available for download worldwide. Bloodstock was a turning point in the band's career as they parted ways with their original vocalist and enlisted the services of singer extraordinaire Willy Norton. Willy performed live with the band with only one weeks preparation, he was formally offered the vocalist position backstage at Bloodstock and now fronts the band full-time. With this new line-up and a pack of new songs under their sleeves, the band decided it was time to finally record their debut full-length album. In February 2011 Neonfly set off to Remaster Studios in Italy to record with producer Nick Savio (Power Quest, Arthemis, Raintime). The result of this collaboration is an outstanding stadium metal album with 11 epic tracks entitled 'Outshine The Sun.' Dynamic UK record label Rising Records were quick to spot the bands potential offering them a record deal this Spring. 'Outshine the Sun' will be released on September 5. The band have just performed storming sets at the Basinfire Festival in Czech Republic, SOS festival in Manchester and caused a stir at this year's Hard Rock Hell Festival in Ibiza. A UK tour with Scandinavian Prog-Metallers Pagan's Mind has allowed them to hone their new tracks in front of the most demanding of audiences. Neonly can be caught on the road this Summer & Fall and will be rocking the nation in support of the mighty Freedom Call and Arthemisthis November. More dates in the UK and Europe are about to be confirmed in support of the debut album. Watch this space… Neonfly…..Stadium metal at its best! November tour dates with Freedom Call/Arthemis: 18th - London Underworld 19th - Nottingham MG Ballroom 20th - Wakefield Snooty Fox 21st - Newcastle Trillians 22nd - Yardbirds Grimsby 23rd - Birmingham Roadhouse WebLinks: www.neonfly.net / listn.to/neonfly / www.last.fm/music/Neonfly.

 

 

Monday, August 22, 2011

BOHEME, FEATURING GUEST VOCALS BY FORMER JOURNEY FRONTMAN STEVE PERRY: Singer/songwriter Cassidy's new project entitled Bohème has at last been completed, and the eagerly anticipated solo debut album, is called Follow The Freedom. Hailed by veteran Rolling Stone writer David Fricke as "a vocal dynamo," the former front woman of the once-acclaimed Antigone Rising, will make her album available later this year on her own Band and Mountain label. Follow The Freedom marks an extraordinary new chapter in Cassidy's already remarkable career. With its blue-eyed soul and pop-influenced sound as well as powerful sense of hope and optimism, the album marks a kind of creative rebirth for the Los Angeles-based artist. Among the album's many highlights is the stunning title track, which features backing vocals from none other than Journey's Steve Perry. The legendary lead singer offered his spontaneous support when he surprised Bohème at the studio during the sessions. "I walked into the studio one day to find Steve Perry hanging out in my mixing bay," she recalls still with a bit of disbelief. "Before I knew it, he came up with this cool idea for a backing vocal on 'Follow The Freedom.' We threw a mic up and sang it together!" WebLink: bohemeartist.com. MELODIC BRIEFS: Andy Taylor has declared his new album to be titled Motherload. The guitarist/singer starts a second round of mixing this week. Kiss' new album will be titled Monster and is described by Gene Simmons as the missing gap between Destroyer and Revenge. It will be released easly 2012. The original drummer of The Little Kingz Joey Fatale passed away on August 7. After The Little Kingz, Joey went on to be the Mini-Gene Simmons in Mini-Kiss. German power metal veterans Gamma Ray, with legendary Kai Hansen at the helm, have been confirmed for the Sweden Rock Cruise, sailing from Stockholm October 6th-7th! The line-up for the Sweden Rock Cruise is thereby complete and looks as follows: Gamma Ray, Exodus, Anvil, Helix, Dark, Funeral Hell: www.swedenrockcruise.com. Raven Lord have added Jamie Mallender (Tony Martin Band) to their ranks. Jamie is known for his work with the Tony Martin Band (ex- Black Sabbath) and has toured around the world. He is a recording artist and has plenty records under his belt. Jamie Mallender will be handling the bass guitar duties and completes Raven Lord's line up. www.rockngrowl.com/raven-lord. Skid Row guitarist Snake Sabo will appear on this week's edition of Caffeine Bomb. Make sure you tune in at 7:00 p.m. EST on Monday, August 22nd, to 91.7 FM WHUS in Eastern Connecticut, or stream live at WHUS.org. The Italian hard rock band Voodoo Highway is glad to announce their new videoclip for the song Running Around, from the debut album Broken Uncle's Inn. Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGLP7VsA8Tc. Fans can listen to all Domain songs in a complete YouTube playlist: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1C4AA9078245FAAE. ROCK LANDMARKS – JUDAS PRIEST'S BRITISH STEEL: Press Release: "This book is the second in our CD sized series on 'landmark' rock albums and documents Judas Priest's seminal 1980 release British Steel, a pivotal album within the band's roster. Judas Priest's sixth studio album has rightly earned its place as one of the greatest heavy metal albums of all time. It comfortably - perhaps too comfortably for some fans' tastes - sits between Priest's harder-edged heavy metal of the seventies with their far more commercial albums of the eighties. Sure, it is a world away from the likes of Killing Machine and it's not as pop-orientated as, say Defenders Of The Faith and certainly not Turbo, but it set the benchmark for the kind of metal that was to become popular in the decade of its birth. From the furious opening track 'Rapid Fire' (had the twin-guitar attack of K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton sounded better?) to the blistering closing song 'Steeler', British Steel is a monster of an album; adrenalin fuelled and endlessly listenable. While not every track is the perfect Priest song, it is a hugely infectious piece of work that represents the Mighty Priest in near perfect style. But despite its impact it is not their best album yet it is undoubtedly their most popular. Not only has British Steel gone on to become a cherished item amongst ardent metal supporters but it inspired a whole generation of metal bands, notably, the American thrash metal bands of the eighties such as Metallica, Megadeth, Anthrax and Slayer and later, Annihilator and Pantera. Even the name 'British Steel' conjures up the working class sounds of classic British heavy metal. British Steel is quite simply, genre-defining. This fans hand-book, will tell you why. Foreword by Guns N' Roses guitarist Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal. 68 pages, 17 monochrome images." Visit www.neildaniels.com / www.wymeruk.co.uk/Store/index.php?_a=viewProd&productId=1360.

 

 

Friday, August 19, 2011

NEW FROM ROCK CANDY RECORDS: The following new Rock Candy titles are available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price of £10.99 each for the next two weeks ending on 4th September. Stan Bush 'S/T' CANDY103 / The early to mid eighties were a veritable breeding ground for talented singer songwriters of the AOR variety. On the one hand you had the pop rock crunch of Bryan Adams, John Waite and John Parr, whilst on the other you had the more pop-tastic approach as typified by Billy Squier and Huey Lewis. Of course, up against the big sellers were a plethora of up and comers none more impressive than Stan Bush, with his gritty hooks and good looks. Bush, a relative new comer to the scene, had previously fronted obscure Mid West outfit Boulder, recording an album for Elektra records, before going solo. Carving out a reputation as a handy songwriter, Bush's demos secured him a solo deal with the giant Sony label, who figured that they might have the next Rick Springfield on their hands. In many ways they were right but ultimately such success was not forthcoming. Ushered into the studio, with producer Pat Ryan (Styx), initial sessions amounted to little. Kevin Beamish, famed for his work with REO Speedwagon, interceded, taking over knob twiddling duties. The results, though, were a triumph, allowing Stan the opportunity to deliver one of the most impressive solo albums of the era. With raspy vocals and a backing band consisting of some of the best West Coast sessions players on the scene, it remains one of the best, if largely undiscovered, AOR albums of the era. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3,000 word essay about the making of the album, interview with Stan and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. It's Hot 2. Fire In My Heart 3. Can't Live Without Love 4. Don't Accuse Her 5. Love Has Taken Me Away 6. All American Boy 7. Say The Word 8. Time Isn't Changing You 9. Round And Round 10. Keep Your Love Alive. The Strand 'S/T' CANDY102 / In keeping with Rock candy's penchant for exposing great, yet relatively unheralded melodic rock music, we now turn the spotlight on an obscure Los Angeles based five piece named, rather curiously, The Strand. Although the name may not be recognisable, some of the band members will be very familiar to fans of sophisticated melodic rock. The Strand's origins can be found in a group called Rural Still Life, the very same group that spawned hugely successful multi Grammy winning West Coast AOR stars Toto. In common with Toto the band were also extremely talented players, some having backed Boz Scaggs both live and in the studio. Just like the session players that birthed Toto, they too hatched plans for their own group, quickly securing a deal with Island Records. Signed personally by Island founder Chris Blackwell (and named by him), the band's one and only album , originally released in 1980, was produced, not unsurprisingly, by long time friend and colleague, Toto drummer Jeff Porcaro. The results, as you might reasonably expect, are spectacular, boasting killer songs, jaw dropping musicianship and superb arrangements, all bathed in a stellar production. Listen out too for vocalist Rick 'Moon' Calhoun, one of the greatest, yet largely overlooked, vocalists of the genre. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3,000 word essay about the making of the album, interview with the band and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Rock It Tonight 2. Long Hot Summer 3. I Like It Like That 4. Just A Little More Time 5. Prisoners In Paradise 6. Stay Away From My Girl 7. Frustration 8. Children Of The Night 9. Dirty Little Girl 10. Can't Look Back.   xx BOB SEGER & THE SILVER BULLET BAND'S MULTI-PLATINUM 'LIVE BULLET' AND 'NINE TONIGHT' ALBUMS REMASTERED: In preparation for Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band's return to the road this Fall for a second leg to their 2011 North American Tour, Capitol/EMI will release Seger's multi-platinum Live Bullet and Nine Tonight concert albums digitally remastered with exclusive bonus tracks on September 13. Seger's new tour dates will extend from coast to coast, with stops expected in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Orlando, Dallas, Denver, Columbus, Las Vegas, Vancouver and more. The first leg of Seger's 2011 Tour drew rave reviews from critics and played to more than 350,000 fans. Originally released in 1976, Live Bullet was recorded at Cobo Hall in Bob Seger's hometown of Detroit, Michigan. The album has sold over five million copies and features 14 classics, including "Turn The Page," "Travelin' Man/Beautiful Loser," "Katmandu," plus a live bonus track exclusive to this newly remastered edition, a rare recording of "I Feel Like Breaking Up Somebody's Home" from Seger's sold out first stadium show at the Pontiac Silverdome. Originally released in 1981, Nine Tonight was also recorded, in part, at Detroit's Cobo Hall, as well as at Boston's Boston Garden. The five-times platinum album features 16 live hits, including "Old Time Rock And Roll," "Night Moves," and "Hollywood Nights," plus a live bonus track exclusive to this newly remastered edition, "Brave Strangers." Both titles will be released with restored original artwork and updated packaging and offered in a special CD/T-Shirt Box combination at select retailers. Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band's legendary live performances have led to record sales in excess of 51 million which includes 11 platinum and seven multi-platinum RIAA-certified album sales awards. Seger holds the distinction for the #1 Catalog Album of the Decade (2000-2010) for his Greatest Hits, which has sold more than nine million copies in the U.S. to date, posting an unbroken 16-year streak on Billboard's Top 200 Albums and Catalog Albums charts. Live Bullet: 1. Nutbush City Limits 2. Travelin' Man 3. Beautiful Loser 4. Jody Girl 5. I've Been Working 6. Turn The Page 7. U.M.C. 8. Bo Diddley 9. Ramblin' Gamblin' Man 10. Heavy Music 11. Katmandu 12. Lookin' Back 13. Get Out Of Denver 14. Let It Rock Exclusive Bonus Track 15. I Feel Like Breaking Up Somebody's Home. Nine Tonight: 1. Nine Tonight 2. Tryin' To Live My Life Without You 3. You'll Accomp'ny Me 4. Hollywood Nights 5. Old Time Rock And Roll 6. Mainstreet 7. Against The Wind 8. The Fire Down Below 9. Her Strut 10. Feel Like A Number 11. Fire Lake 12. Betty Lou's Gettin' Out Tonight 13. We've Got Tonight 14. Night Moves 15. Rock And Roll Never Forgets 16. Let It Rock Exclusive Bonus Track 17. Brave Strangers. MOTLEY BOX EXCLUSIVE TO JAPAN: Universal Japan releases Motley Crue 30th Anniversary Box Set [Cardboard Sleeve (mini LP)][SHM-CD] [w/ T-shirt, Limited Edition] on November 30. The Japanese original release marks the thirtieth anniversary edition of Motley Crue's 1st album and features cardboard sleeve jacket (Leather Records version). Comes with the T-shirt created by collaboration between the Japanese clothing brand Neighborhood and the band. Packaged in a LP-sized box. Pre-Order this limited edition set via CD Japan. TOMMY DENANDER PACKS HIS BAGS FOR ROAD TRIP: Swedish guitarist Tommy Denander is going out on a major guitar clinic tour of Europe to demonstrate his new signature VGS TD-Special guitar featuring the highly innovative Evertune and True Temperament systems. Tommy and the guitar has been featured on the cover and several major guitar magazines in the world. More dates will be added soon. Included in the tour are also two shows at the Firefest festival in Nottingham with Jimi Jamison (ex-Survivor) and Jeff Paris as well as 10 live shows and one TV show in Sweden, Denmark and Norway with Bobby Kimball (Toto). Tommy is one of the most sought after sessions guitarists as well as song writers today and some of recent work include Ricky Martin (Platinum award in USA), Big Time Rush (Gold award in USA), Phenomena, Robin Beck, Houston, Dan Reed, Peterik-Jamison, Williams-Friestedt, Lionville, Bangalore Choir, Reece-Kronlund, Fiona, Gary John Barden, Swedish Idol, Stonelake, Sencelled and coming albums for Alice Cooper (Welcome 2 My Nightmare) and House Of Lords (Big Money). WebLinks: www.vgs-guitars.com / www.evertune.com / www.truetemperament.com/site/index.php. Tour dates: 03.09.11 Musik Produktiv Lenzburg - Switzerland 07.09.11 No.1 Hamburg - Germany 12.09.11 Wroclaw - Sklep Muzyczny M.Ostrowski - Poland 13.09.11 Poznan - Music Store - Poland 14.09.11 Lódz - Sklep Muzyczny Asstonex - Poland 15.09.11 Warszawa - Riff (Bokserska) - Poland 16.09.11 Lublin - Festiwal "Solo Zycia" koncert Tommy Denander - Festival, Konzert - Poland 17.09.11 Lublin - Duze Studio Polskiego Radia Lublin - Workshop on Radio - Poland 19.09.11 Korn Dresden - Germany 20.09.11 Musik World Marktretwitz - Germany 21.09.11 Musik Klier Nürnberg - Germany 22.09.11 Musik Meisinger Burghausen - Germany 26.09.11 Shop2Rock Neustrelitz - Germany 27.09.11 MH Schulte Wolfenbüttel - Germany 28.09.11 PPC Music Hannover - Germany 29.09.11 Just Music HH Hamburg - Germany 30.09.11 Farmsound Kassel - Germany 03.10.11 Berlin - Germany 04.10.11 Oevermann Minden - Germany 05.10.11 Musik Stocksmeier Bielefeld - Germany 10.10.11 Fabiani Guitars Calw - Germany 11.10.11 Mister Music Schramberg - Germany 12.10.11 The Works Carouge Genf - Switzerland 13.10.11 Boullard musique Morges - Switzerland 14.10.11 Seedam music Pfäfikon - Switzerland 15.10.11 J&M Musikland Erfurt - Germany 21.10.11 Firefest Nottingham "Jimi Jamison" - England 22.10.11 Firefest Nottingham "Jeff Paris" - England 24-28.10.11 Places to be announced - Spain 07-12.11.11 Place to be announced - Austria 12.11.11 Place to be announced Budapest - Hungary 14.11.11 Satu Mare Net music - Romania 15.11.11 Bukarest Senia Music - Romania 17.11.11 Acustica On Line Naples - Italy 18.11.11 Dream Music Rome - Italy 19.11.11 Daminelli Bergamo Milano - Italy 20.11.11 Ecomusic booth, Second Hand Guitars Milano - Italy 07.12.11 Göransson Arena Sandviken "Bobby Kimball" - Sweden 08/09/10.12.11 Globe Arena Stockholm "Bobby Kimball" - Sweden 11.12.11 TV show Gothenburg "Bobby Kimball" - Sweden 12-17.12.11 Place to be announced "Bobby Kimball" - Sweden/Denamrk/Norway   DARYL HALL ANNOUNCES NEW SINGLE, "TALKING TO MYSELF": Legendary singer-songwriter Daryl Hall has announced the first single off his forthcoming fifth solo studio album, Laughing Down Crying, due out on September 27 (Verve Forecast). "Talking to Myself" features Hall's classic clever lyrics and catchy choruses, always ruling at the top of his class in penning smile-inducing pop songs. Stream the track HERE! With his iconic soulful vocals, Hall's newest collection feels fresh and current while still maintaining his signature style and songwriting prowess. Hall was joined in the studio by co-producers Greg Bieck (Jennifer Lopez, Destiny's Child, Ricky Martin) and Paul Pesco on the making of this album. Powerhouse producer, the late T-Bone Wolk (Billy Joel, Carly Simon, Elvis Costello), lent his expertise on stand-out tracks "Lifetime of Love", "Wrong Side of History" and "Problem With You." This album serves as the last project they worked on together after a prolific 30 year relationship. While Daryl Hall is an adored staple in America's music scene for his work in Daryl Hall and John Oates and his already illustrious solo career, he has recently been making waves as a "tastemaker" for up and coming talent as music host and Executive Producer of his smash hit web television series, Live From Daryl's House. He has been giving artists like Fitz and the Tantrums and Company of Thieves a chance to perform to national audiences, often for the first time. On the program, which won the 2010 WEBBY Award in the Variety category, Hall seeks out new and breaking talent and invites them to his home inMillerton, NY. One of the most unlikely collaborations that stemmed from his show was his pairing up with electro-funk duo Chromeo for a standout performance at Bonnaroo in 2010. Since its inception in late 2007, Live From Daryl's House has since gained national distribution and will be airing in syndication beginning September 24. www.LiveFromDarylsHouse.com. Daryl Hall is the co-founder and lead singer of the "rock and soul" duo Daryl Hall and John Oates . The pair is recognized as the "Number One Selling Duo" in music history by the Recording Industry Association of America, a title they still hold today. Hall, an inductee to the Songwriters Hall of Fame, penned six songs that reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts including such classics as "Rich Girl" and "I Can't Go For That (No Can Do)" and another five tunes that registered in the Top 10. Hall's solo career began in the '70s and he has released a handful of critically acclaimed albums in that time; Sacred Songsin 1980, Three Hearts in the Happy Ending Machine in 1986 which spawned the No. 5 Billboard chart hit "Dreamtime", Soul Alone in 1993 and Can't Stop Dreaming in 1996. With such an incredible legacy behind him and an exciting platform from which to move forward, the future is limitless for Daryl Hall. There are many new artists, some of whom he has championed on his show, who would attribute their work to the influence of the iconic songwriting and melodies that have solidified Hall as one of the most important artists in musical history. Laughing Down Crying will surely hit home with all of his loyal fans who have been waiting over a decade for his next solo effort. Full track listing: 1. Laughing Down Crying 2. Talking to Myself 3. Lifetime of Love 4. Eyes for You 5. Save Me 6. Message to Ya 7. Wrong Side of History 8. Get Out of the Way 9. Crash and Burn 10. Problem With You. BOSTON TRIO FORM A NEW PROJECT: Three members of Boston have teamed up in a side project called Color Three. They are: Kimberly Dahme, Gary Pihl and Jeff Neal. The band will debut at Soldiers Field at a Vetrans Benifit. See the poster below for details. www.bandboston.com.   DIMES BIKERS FOR BABIES - STATEN ISLAND NY: One of the Noticeboard regulars Debbie asked me to print this...absolutely....all for a good cause! "I know that there are a bunch of Tri-State area posters on the Noticeboard, so I just wanted to ask if you wouldn't mind posting something on your front page regarding this year's 3rd Annual March of Dimes Bikers for Babies fundraising event on August 28 on Staten Island, NY (sibikersforbabies.org). The March of Dimes' goal is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. They carry out this mission through research, community services, education, and advocacy to save babies' lives. In addition to the annual morning motorcycle ride, there will be a custom car show, monster trucks, food/vendors, and live music beginning at 11:30am. Dee Snider of Twisted Sister is the National Spokesperson for the March of Dimes Bikers for Babies fundraising event, and he and AJ Pero (also of Twisted Sister) have been participating/performing at this event every year. Eddie Trunk (from That Metal Show) and Chris Jericho (pro wrestler and lead singer of the band Fozzy) will also be there. The performers this year are: - Lou Gramm of Foreigner (Headlining!) - Carl Thomas - The Cabaret Trio - The King & The Disciples (Elvis) - Defunked "Winner of Bikers for Babies Battle of the Bands" - Atomic Kush - Beatlemania - Catalyst - Bad Mouth Betties - Redrum - Glen Burtnik - Cashmier - Off White Trash - Dirt (Alice In Chains Tribute) - No More Tears (Ozzy Tribute) - Maiden NY (Iron Maiden Tribute) - Unchained (Van Halen Tribute w/Trixter's Steve Brown) - Bobby & the Jets (Elton John Tribute) - Dead Men Dreaming. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Enuff Z'Nuff - Unleased Demos (18 Tracks) - Fifth Angel - Demo 1985 (4 Tracks) - Fleetwood Mac - Live 1990-08-25 (2CD) - Guns N' Roses - Rumbo Tapes - Studio Demos Help support MelodicRock.com - Join MRX Now!

 

 

Thursday, August 18, 2011

JUSTIN MURR'S OF LNJ STATEMENT WHY THE SONG WITH JANI LANE IS NOT ON ITUNES: Justin Murr, Liberty n' Justice: "First I must say I am sorry for all the confusion about not releasing the new Liberty n' Justice song featuring Jani Lane on iTunes on the date stated on our press release (8-15-11). I have read many things about me (both pro & con) and just wanted to clear the air on a few things.... Even before I consider myself a musician or businessman, I am a follower of Christ, a husband, and a father. I have and still do fail at all three of these things miserably at times, but the one thing that holds all three of these together (for me) is love. That brings me up to me wrestling with releasing this song right now. When I woke Tuesday morning I had 322 emails in my inbox, some stating they couldn't wait to hear or they couldn't find it & others condemning me for exploiting Jani. Included in these emails where over 30 requests from radio stations wanting the song to play as soon as I serviced them with the single. The last (for me), were the most convincing and that was from people very close to Jani asking me to wait till at least after the funeral. The one thing that I got from all these emails was love, you his fans loved the artist Jani Lane and the music he created with Warrant and by himself. I with good conscience need to allow his family, friends, and his fans to grief. Once we get past this, we then can celebrate the new music he helped create with Liberty N' Justice. He helped craft the lyrics with Scott Bolan and myself & I do believe it shows where he was at spiritually at the time and should help ease some of the pain of his loss. For now, you can hear a sample of the song "Sin" only at www.melodicrock.com & www.JkNorthrup.com. If you decide to purchase the song please know a portion of the proceeds WILL go to Jani Lane because he helped co-write the song. I am sorry again for not showing more compassion to his family, friends, and fans. Anyone who knows me (really knows me), knows me wanting to release this at this time was not a money motivation but more of a "message" motivation.....soon we will have the official release date so you his fans can hear this amazing song. In closing, I think the chorus of the song suits better then anything I can say.... "Let me be the man I could have been / the one you first breathed your life into / my soul in your embrace/ deliver me....deliver me from my sins". Thanks for your time." ~ Justin. Download an exclusive 1 minute MP3 clip of the song Sin here: L&J Sin. CLASSIC ROCK PRESENTS AOR - ISSUE 3: Issue three of Classic Rock Presents AOR is still available now. Issue 4 is being prepared now! A year to make. More than $1 million in recording costs. Deadlines Missed. Budgets broken. Classic Rock Presents AOR analyses the dramatic birth of Foreigner 4. The third sensational issue of AOR magazine celebrates a very special birthday: the 30th anniversary of the release of Foreigner 4 – the classic 1981 album that brought you such massive hits as Waiting For A Girl Like You, Urgent, Juke Box Hero and many more. Our epic 10-page article tells you everything you need to know about the creation of this melodic rock masterpiece, based around a revealing new interview with Foreigner guitarist Mick Jones. We also talk to former band members Rick Wills and Dennis Elliott; Tony Platt, who engineered Foreigner 4; plus the man who played synthesiser on the album – none other than Thomas Dolby. To bring us bang up to date, we also interview the band's current frontman, Kelly Hansen, and ask him what it feels like singing those classic Foreigner songs today. AOR also comes with a fantastic free CD: Raised On Radio, featuring the very best of the latest melodic rock releases, including tracks by Def Leppard, Night Ranger, Alyson Avenue, Lionville, Airrace and 10 more. Elsewhere in the issue, we find out why Chicago sacked their talismanic frontman, Peter Cetera. We marvel at the success of hit maker supreme, Desmond Child. We talk to Richard Marx, Black 'N Blue, Hardcore Superstar, Romeo's Daughter and Eden's Curse. We look at the softer side of southern rock, when bands like .38 Special, Blackfoot, The Outlaws and ZZ Top stormed the singles charts and ruled the airwaves. …And we travel Stateside to the M3 Festival in Maryland to watch the likes of Kix, Jetboy, LA Guns, Firehouse and Whitesnake star in an event we're dubbing 'hair metal's final stand'. All this, plus the latest melodic rock news, album and live reviews (including Download, Z Rock, Sweden Rock and the Journey/Foreigner/Styx tour). Not to mention our regular spotlight on new bands including Katana, Serpentine and Wildstreet. OrderLink: bit.ly/ClassicRockAOR.   CLASSIC ROCK PRESENTS CHICKENFOOT PRE-ORDER ITEM - CHICKENFOOT FANPACK | DUE FOR UK RELEASE 27TH SEPTEMBER 2011: The Classic Rock Presents Chickenfoot Fanpack includes Chickenfoot III, the band's brilliant second album, plus a 132-page magazine dedicated to one of the world's greatest supergroups. Fans who buy the Chickenfoot Fan Pack will be able to hear Chickenfoot III weeks before it appears in record stores. What's more, the Fan Pack version of Chickenfoot III comes with two exclusive bonus tracks that won't appear on the record store version of the album. The Fan Pack magazine is 100% Chickenfoot-approved and contains exclusive interviews with Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, Michael Anthony and Chad Smith talking about their new album, plus their respective careers as part of some of the biggest bands in rock. Chickenfoot III is the much-anticipated follow-up to the band's acclaimed (and certified Gold-selling) 2009 self-titled debut. The Fan Pack also tells the story of the making of the band's new video, how they created a 3D album cover, an overview of their solo careers and the story behind each and every song on the new record. The magazine's also packed with rare shots of the band, an exclusive muso section as well as a Guitar Pick Pack, 3D glasses and a 3D CD digital book pack with postcards. Chickenfoot III Track Listing: 1. Last Temptation 2. Alright, Alright 3. Different Devil 4. Up Next 5. Lighten Up 6. Come Closer 7. Three and a Half Letters 8. Bigfoot 9. Dubai Blues 10. Something Going Wrong. Fanpack Bonus Tracks: 11. Exclusive: Down The Drain (Live in Phoenix) - Exclusive to Classic Rock Fanpack, no other digital or physical release will include this track. 12. Oh Yeah! (Live in Phoenix) - Not available on any other physical release. OrderLink: www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk/classic-rock-presents-chickenfoot. STAMPEDE TO SUPPORT Y&T ON UPCOMING 2011 UK TOUR: Cult NWOBHM legends Stampede have announced that they are to support Californian rockers Y&T this autumn on the UK leg of their On With the Show tour, as part of their 2011 schedule The announcement comes after what has already been a busy comeback year for the British hard rockers whose lineup still boasts original songwriting duo Reuben and Laurence Archer and bassist Colin Bond. The band will be touring in support of their new studio album Sudden Impulse which was released in May on Rock Candy Records to critical acclaim, having already played a successful comeback show at The Peel in Kingston and supported legendary metallers Anvil in London earlier this summer. Stampede are set to kick off their tour in Newcastle on 30th September, and have confirmed they will play 5 dates across the UK with Y&T before finishing with an appearance at the Hard Rock Hell IV Festival in Prestatyn, Wales. They are also in the process of writing new material for another new studio album scheduled for 2012. Tour dates are as follows: September 30 ­ o2 Academy, Newcastle (w/ Y&T) October 2 ­ Academy 3, Manchester (w/Y&T) October 11 - The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton (w/ Y&T) October 12 ­ The Brook, Southampton (w/ Y&T) October 14 ­ The Garage, London (w/Y&T) December 3 - Hard Rock Hell V, Prestatyn, Wales For more news head to www.facebook.com/stampederock or www.stampederock.com. HEXFIRE SIGNS DEAL WITH NIGHTMARE RECORDS: Polish power metal band Hexfire has signed a deal with Nightmare Records USA for the release of their debut album titled "The Fire of Redemption." The album will be available in the USA and Europe. According to Jacob Liszko, one of the founders of Hexfire, the exact date of release will be announced soon, but "The Fire of Redemption" probably will be out in November this year. "The Fire of Redemption" features guest appearances by Niclas Etelavuori (Amorphis), Novy (ex-Behemoth & Vader), Alex Holzwarth (Rhapsody of Fire, Avantasia), Jonno Lodge (ex- Paul Di'Anno, Biomechanical, Darke Horse), Diego 'Grom' Meraviglia (Testing Tomorrow, ex-Ancient & Doomsword), Kasper Gram (Manticora), Martin Arendal (Manticora, Wuthering Heights), Kristian Larsen (Manticora), and Kel'Thuz (Spiritual Demise, Sorcerer). For more info visit Hexfire official Facebook: www.facebook.com/hexfireofficial or Hexfire official MySpace: www.myspace.com/hexfireofficial. HUMAN COMETH WELCOME ERIC JOHNS: Eric William Johns was born September 30, 1972 in Kentucky, USA. His first international release came the following year when Simple Aggression's "Gravity" album was released in 1996 on Leviathan Records. 2005 he was asked to take over the vocalist slot in guitar legend David T. Chastain's group: Southern Gentlemen. He has appeared on two releases by the band. Human Cometh has started working on their 3rd studio album, the first single Mayan Logic is now online at www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wreHddYowY. THE AUGUST EDITION OF THE CLASSIC ROCK AND METAL PODCAST AVAILABLE FOR STREAMING: The August edition of the Classic Rock And Metal Podcast is available for streaming at www.classicrockpodcast.com and for download through iTunes. This month Geoff Tate from multi-million sellers Queensryche talks about their new album Dedicated To Chaos, the band's 30-year history including getting shot at while playing in Iraq and his optimism for the future of recorded music. Steve 'Lips' Kudlow from revitalised 80s trailblazers Anvil talks about how their big break finally came from being in the now infamous documentary 'The Story Of Anvil' and how the subsequent propulsion into an almost household name meant that their new album Juggernaut Of Justice had to deliver or the band would call it quits. Original Guns N' Roses drummer Steven Adler alongside friend and current Adler's Appetite band member Chip Z' Nuff talks about their new music, touring and how the drugs didn't kill him, no matter how hard he tried! Finally after 30 years off Stampede are back to a very warm welcome with a fantastic new album, A Sudden Impulse. They talk about the old days and their belief that the good times are coming back for the style of music we love. Music comes from all the above plus Def Leppard and as always the show includes news, tour dates and new release round up. All in just 1 hour of your valuable time! CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: New Showcases added today for: House Of Lords, Sebastian Bach (Frontiers Records, September 23 release); Saracen (Escape Music, September 23 release) and Newman, Serpentine & Lechery (AOR Heaven, August 26/Sept 23 releases). Check them out now.

 

 

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

TAINTED NATION SETTING UP FOR WORLD DOMINATION: Tainted Nation is a name being discussed around various message boards in recent weeks. Interest in the band is certainly growing as they discuss options for the release of their debut album. But who is Tainted Nation? The band's line-up is: Pontus Egberg (The Poodles)(bass guitar); Mark Cross (ex-Firewind/Helloween currently in Outloud)(Drums); Pete Newdeck (Eden's Curse)(Vocals); Ian Nash (Lionsheart)(Guitars). Pete Newdeck, UK based drummer and singer/songwriter, mostly known for his work with Eden's Curse, Grim Reaper and former Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Dianno, began writing songs with long term friend and guitarist Ian Nash of the Steve Grimmett Band in 2009. Whilst on tour in the UK with Eden's Curse supporting Finnish Power Metal legends Stratovarious and Firewind in May of that year, Pete first met Firewind drummer Mark Cross (Outloud, Helloween, Kingdom Come) and the two became close friends. Soon ideas were swapped between them and the talk inevitably led to the formation of a new band, except this time with Newdeck swapping drumsticks for a microphone! Boosted by the backing of Cross and producer Dennis Ward, Newdeck relished the challenge and his new found confidence in his vocal abilities soared. In spring 2010 bassist Pontus Egberg, of Swedish Glam Rock sensations The Poodles, completed the line-up. Newdeck, Nash, Cross and Egberg recorded their debut album in the UK, whilst it was mixed and mastered in Germany under the supervision of producer Dennis Ward (Angra, Krokus, House Of Lords, Pink Cream 69, Unisonic) and Tainted Nation was born! Tainted Nation's music can be described as a commercial, modern and powerful sounding rock cocktail. A Facebook page is now up and features a rotation of soundbytes: www.facebook.com/officialtaintednation. Tainted Nation will soon head out on tour October 6-12 2011 with Sencelled, Dynazty together with Miss Behaviour and headline act Electric Boys. Band leader and vocalist Pete Newdeck says: "This is a fantastic opportunity for us as a band, firstly to prove that we mean business and secondly to establish this band as a live touring act with lots to offer-In such a difficult climate for bands in general to make big strides, we are grateful to be asked to be included in such a formidable line up. For people not so familiar with some of the acts on this tour, they should indeed check them all out. there is an overwhelming wealth of talent. This is an ultimate package for the Rock fan." More to come soon from this great new band...   xxxx MYSTICITY — FEATURING DOOGIE WHITE, BOBBY RONDINELLI, AND DEREK SHERINIAN: Mysticity's debut CD Ambassadors of the Hidden Sun (limited edition) is out now and available only through the website www.mysticity.com. The album features such names as Doogie White, Bobby Rondinelli and Derek Sherinian. The hard rock release is an independent recording from start to finish. As a kind of press release, here is an overview of the album written by Bob Nalbandian of Shockwaves Skull Sessions: "Rarely do you find bands in today's musical climate that combine the sterling elements of 70s classic rock with today's modern hard rock edge. The Mysticity project has achieved notable success in creating this rare synthesis of time. Founded and led by Los Angeles based composer/guitarist Chris Melekyan, Mysticity brings forth the classic elements of Rainbow, Deep Purple, Camel, Nazareth, Black Sabbath, and others with the modern neoclassical/progressive sound and good production quality. There is a twist behind this release. It's a dream-come-true for a then young kid who used to live behind The Iron Curtain. "I paid my first monthly salary to buy Rainbow's LP," says Chris, "Imagine a starry-eyed classic rock fan listening to his distant teacher, Ritchie Blackmore, blazing away on the guitar and Bobby Rondinelli pounding the drums so effortlessly. I was dreaming to watch their live performance one day, let alone play a chord with them." And low and behold, nearly 25 years later Chris's dream had come true with the release of Mysticity's debut CD Ambassadors of the Hidden Sun, featuring Rainbow's most recent singer—the incredibly talented Doogie White, and Bobby Rondinelli, who plays drums on the title track. There are other guest appearances on this album, including Derek Sherinian's mesmerizing arrangement and solo on one of the tracks. In fact, this project is a rare collectors' item in a sense that it combines the musicianship of 2 generations of the legendary band Rainbow — Doogie White's and Bobby Rondinelli's. "Never give up on your dream!" says Chris, who confesses that he was very close to burying the idea of recording his 100 plus songs. You can feel the end of 70s and the early 80s capsuled in this album, expressed through modern sounds. The songs are real, the lyrics are actual and reflect some of today's thought-provoking topics."   INTRODUCING LOREN PROTHERO: Something new here from a young talent out of Nashville. It was being discussed on the Noticeboard and once I took a Listen, I knew fans of modern melodic pop/rock would be interested in checking this out. "Commercial and original aren't typically companions, but Nashville artist Loren Prothero contends otherwise. On his debut, The Pedestal EP, he defies all pre-conceived notions of the mundane do-it-yourself Nashville music scene by delivering a taught, confidently produced/performed set. There is a ready-for-the-airwaves sheen to Mr. Prothero's music, unlike many independent artists, but it doesn't overshadow his personal fingerprints on these songs (all three of which were conceived by Loren himself). With a vocal prowess far beyond many of his peers, and a guitar that is blessedly loud and edgy, Loren Prothero has rendered himself a force to be reckoned with, a singing/playing/writing triple-threat, who we will surely be hearing more from soon." The Pedestal EP by Loren Prothero available now for $2.99 via iTunes.   ERIC MARTIN THE FANBOY CHECKS IN: Eric Martin checks in from the road via his newsletter: "So we are in Pittsburg right now with a handful of hours before we open to the mighty Whitesnake. Last night Pat Torpey, my wife Denise, our Road Manager Captain Graham Swinnerton, Joey B & Ski (two for the road crew) and I went to the baseball game to see the Cardinals and Pirates play. The cool thing is being invited by my friend (brag alert), Tony LaRussa (legendary manager of the St. Louis Cardinals). We hung in the clubhouse and chatted for a good long hour, met some players (Edwin Jackson & David Freese) , watched a private batting practice with Albert Pujols, Matt Holliday and the great Mark Mcgwire and had the best seats in the house (front row,1st base line). It was an amazing experience to be backstage hanging with the stars in a totally different medium. I have the utmost respect for Tony as a big league baseball skipper and as a man. I can't get this silly grin off my face. I can cross this off my bucket list . Check out Tony and his wife Elaine's off the field mission to rescue dogs & cats who are abandoned, homeless and have run out of time at shelters: ericmartin.com/l/bsoyri/609323; www.arf.net" ~ E aka WannaB Bat-Boy. Also we have about two more weeks in the US and then we head back to Europe for a Theatre tour (last time we did the festival circuit and now we're doing our own shows). Cleveland tomorrow then NYC, Boston, Florida, Texas and many more. Check my website or: ericmartin.com/l/zbx62m/609323; www.mrbigsite.com for details. The shows have been packed and amazing. Great tour! RIOT WAITING FOR THE HAMMER TO FALL: Metal icons Riot have been confirmed as special guests on the first leg of Hammerfall's European tour this winter. The tour kicks off on 26th October in Copenhagen, Denmark, and ends for the five-piece metal machine in Cologne, Germany, on 18th November. Hammerfall of course famously covered Riot's 'Flight Of The Warrior' (from the band's 1988 'Thundersteel' album) on their 2008 album 'Masterpieces' and so for both bands the tour is a marriage made in Heaven. Hammerfall's Joacim Cans commented: "going on tour with Riot is going to be a lot of fun ­ the band are real legends and have been truly inspirational over the years." Riot's founder member Mark Reale is equally enthusiastic: "This tour is going to blow a lot of cobwebs away. We've been dying to get the band back over the Europe where we've always had such a loyal following. This is like a dream come true for all of us, and the timing, with the new album ready to roll, couldn't be better." This will be the first time the legendary 'Thundersteel' and 'The Privilege Of Power' line-up of Tony Moore (vocals), Mark Reale (guitar), Mike Flyntz (guitar), Don Van Stavern (bass) and Bobby Jarzombek (drums) has played in Europe on a full tour, after the band's celebrated one-off show at Swedenrock in 2009. Riot are currently finalising their new album, which is planned for release in October. The dates with Hammerfall will therefore also be an opportunity for fans to hear new material from the band's upcoming ­ and long-awaited ­ fourteenth album. BOGUSLAW BALCERAK'S CRYLORD SIGN TO LION MUSIC: Exploding out of Poland comes a new powerhouse of metal. Lion Music are delighted to welcome Boguslaw Balcerak's Crylord to the labels roster and will release the bands debut album "Blood Of The Prophets" on October 14. Led by the prestigious talents of guitarist Boguslaw Balcerak, "Blood Of The Prophets" breathes new life into the neo-classical genre with 12 first class songs chock full of big riffs, dynamic rhythms, jaw dropping guitar solos and infectious vocal melodies from 3 of the most acclaimed vocalist in the field - Carsten 'Lizard' Schulz (Evidence One, ex Domain) and neo-classical legends Mark Boals (ex Malmsteen / Ring Of Fire) and Goran Edman (ex-Malmsteen / Brazen Abbot / Time Requiem). A preview album sampler MP3 can be heard at: soundcloud.com/lionmusicrecordlabel/boguslaw-balceraks-crylord. Full information on the album to follow shortly and be sure to look out for the promotional video for the track "Warriors Moon" coming soon!   JAMIE MALLENDER DELIVERS TUNES FROM THE MOTHERSHIP: Jamie Mallender is a name some might recognize. He is the bass player for Tony Martin's solo band, but is now releasing his own EP Tunes From The Mothership on CDBaby - available now. Says Jamie: "Most people probably have no idea who I am. The people that do, will most likely know me as the bass player for Tony Martin - the former Black Sabbath singer. I've played in his solo band since 2005. A smaller percentage of people may even know me as the guy who released Return To Bass in 2009 - a bass oriented solo instrumental album that did not sell awfully well, but went down very well with the press. So, now I'm back again to confuse people further, with an EP that has 3 original songs on it, 1 cover version and 2 instrumentals. "Tunes From The Mothership" was recorded in my very own, "Starbug Studios," and features me on all instruments, vocals and production. After "Return To Bass" came out I toured up and down the UK for over a year with a band called Eaglesque - yes - you guessed it - they played a lot of Eagles songs! The band encouraged me to sing a few leads and lots of harmonies. This experience really got me back into the singer/songwriter thing that I hadn't done for a while. So when I started recording again, I wanted to try out some of my own songs and thought why the hell not? I'd also got a few instrumental ideas kicking around and I'd always wanted to have a go at recording Tom Petty's, "Runnin' Down A Dream." I've had quite a heavy workload for the last couple of years and figured it was going to take me an awful long time to complete a full album so I thought ok, I'll put out an EP with songs and instrumentals and 1 cover and see what people make of it. I don't really expect my music to set the world on fire - I mean - I'm nearly 40, I'm independent, totally unfashionable.... So all i do is write and record things I like and put them out there, and if people like 'em, great! If they download them - fantastic! If they do it legally - even better! If they don't, they can always find one of my videos on YouTube and go slag me off! haha! But at least nothing I do is autotuned or edited to within an inch of its life. It's all me, and it's all real. I enjoyed making it, and it says a lot about who I am." From The CD Baby site: "Hook-laden, melodic, intelligently written songs, crammed with the exemplary musicianship and unmistakable, inspiring vocals one has come to expect from this 1st rate session man/side-man to the stars. The bass playing is as expected - out of this world." Also from CD Baby Site: "In November 2009, Jamie released his debut album, "Return To Bass," an instrumental offering which was a huge critical if not commercial success. Now he's back with "Tunes From The Mothership." An EP comprising of 6 tracks, 4 of which feature his unmistakable Bolanesque/Tom Petty influenced vocals, the remaining 2 tracks being stunning instrumentals. The songs are very intelligently written and packed to the brim with great melodies, harmonies and dazzling playing. Captivating, often moving and at times - thought provoking, this release covers an awful lot of musical territories and breaks boundaries, whilst keeping the songs hook-laden and within the "don't bore us get to the chorus" scheme of things. Once again Jamie is wearing ALL the hats - Writing, producing, engineering, singing and playing all instruments. He's showcasing his outstanding bass guitar playing once again here, yet he's never OTT with the flash, always underpinning the song but ripping it up where called for. The effortless fretless playing on "Protest Song" is worthy of particular note, and the tasty mix of styles on display in the instrumental, "The Order of Crayons," is something else. It also turns out that Jamie is no slouch on the 6 string, ripping out tremendous tasty solos throughout the closing instrumental "False Promises And Pedalboards," and for the cover of "Runnin' Down A Dream," he's recreated a lot of the original solo but added in a few ideas of his own. All round, this is a very pleasing and exciting release which sets the bar pretty high and defines Jamie Mallender - the artist." WebLink: www.jamiemallender.co.uk. MELODIC BRIEFS: Orange County heavy metal Triple Axe Attack, Leatherwolf, have announced a free show on September 2 at the Slide Bar in Fullerton, CA. www.slidebarfullerton.com/index.php/calendar. This will be the band's first live appearance in over a year and marks the live debut of new guitarist Rob Math who takes over for Greg Erba. He joins original members Michael Olivieri (vocals, guitar), Carey Howe (guitar), and Dean Roberts (drums) along with bassist Patrick Guyton. Grand Design - Idolizer will hit the streets October 28! L.A. Guns (Tracii version) are set to release a new CD, entitled Acoustic Gypsy Live September 27. XYZ drummer Joey Shapiro will be filling in for Scott Coogan for the August 17th gig with Lynch Mob: With: The Dark, The Dead Bones, Spools of Dark Thread. $15 online // $23 door at Casselman's Bar & Venue - 26th & Walnut in NoDo Denver, 2620 Walnut Street Denver CO 80205 (720) 242-8923. MetalInjection.net premieres Drowning Pool's video for "Let the Sin Begin," which is featured on the latest album Drowning Pool available on Eleven Seven Music. Check it out: www.metalinjection.net/tv/view/7441/drowning-pool-let-the-sin-begin-video-premiere. Details of the release of Siren's Song the brand new album by The Union (featuring Thunder's Luke Morley & Chris Childs) can be found here: www.theuniononline.com / www.townsend-records.co.uk/stores/theunion. DIO DISCIPLES ANNOUNCE FIRST-EVER US TOUR: Some fans figured that with the passing of Ronnie James Dio in 2010, one of metal's greatest voices of all-time had been silenced forever. But Dio's music will live on forever, and many of his friends and/or former band mates are making sure of it, as they have reunited as Dio Disciples ­ a concert celebration to the former singer of Black Sabbath, Rainbow, and Elf (and successful/respected solo artist). And while Dio Disciples has already performed overseas, US fans have waited patiently for their chance to catch the group. Soon, their wish will be granted. The band (which is comprised of singers Tim "Ripper" Owens and Toby Jepson, guitarist Craig Goldy, bassist Rudy Sarzo, keyboardist Scott Warren, and drummer Simon Wright) has announced a string of dates (with more to be announced), which as of now, kicks off on September 22nd at the Chance in Poughkeepsie, NY, and wraps up on October 9th at Trees in Dallas, TX. Keep your eyes peeled to Dio Disciples' Facebook page for announcements regarding additional US tour dates. Touching upon almost every era of Dio's stellar career, you can expect to hear faithful and heavy renditions of such classics as "The Last in Line," "Rainbow in the Dark," "Holy Diver," "Heaven and Hell," "Neon Knights," "Man on the Silver Mountain," among countless others. And Dio Disciples have been receiving rave show reviews, including the Planet Mosh website, which gave a recent London performance a 10/10 rating, and proclaimed, "The performance was a fitting tribute to the memory of the great man himself. I'm not sure there is a better way of keeping the legacy alive, than by witnessing this group of men with such outstanding ability pour every ounce of their being into delivering Dio's music so perfectly." Get ready US fans, as it will soon be time to "Stand Up and Shout" to an evening of Dio music once again. Confirmed US Tour Dates [more to be added]: 9/22/2011 Poughkeepsie, NY The Chance 9/23/2011 Asbury Park, NJ Stone Pony 9/24/2011 Springfield, VA Jaxx 9/26/2011 Buffalo, NY Town Ballroom 9/27/2011 Pittsburgh, PA Altar Bar 9/28/2011 Cleveland, OH House of Blues 9/29/2011 Chicago, IL House of Blues 9/30/2011 Medina, MN Medina Entertainment Center 10/6/2011 Baton Rouge, LA Varsity Theatre 10/7/2011 Houston, TX Scout Bar 10/8/2011 San Antonio, TX Sunken Gardens 10/9/2011 Dallas, TX Trees For more information, visit: www.facebook.com/pages/Dio-Disciples/197868730252916 / www.facebook/OfficialDioFacebook / www.ronniejamesdio.com. RHAPSODY OF FIRE: SPLIT IN TWO: After 15 years of friendship, hard work and big passion, fully invested in the creation of symphonic music and an epic saga that will remain in the history of heavy metal, Alex Staropoli and Luca Turilli of Rhapsody Of Fire decided to proceed to a friendly split. "10 albums released and the end of the saga represent, musically and lyrically, an important artistic goal finally reached, underlined by the success of our last release "From Chaos To Eternity", for which we want to thank our wonderful fans once again. Now it came the time when new artistic stimulations need to be found, in respect of both parts' visions and perspectives and of our longtime friendship" say Luca and Alex. Due to the latest legal agreements actually in force, Alex Staropoli will go on with Rhapsody Of Fire having, between the others, Fabio Lione as singer, Tom Hess as guitar player and Alex Holzwarth as drummer. For the same agreements and the original name's common ownership, Luca Turilli will release his future works with a new Rhapsody band, including the faithful band members Dominique Leurquin, Patrice Guers and Alex Holzwarth. Alex says: "While wishing the best to Luca and his new band, I want to tell you that Fabio and myself feel motivated and stronger than ever and that Rhapsody Of Fire are already planning a great worldwide tour. More information regarding the new bass player and the new second guitar player will follow. Stay tuned!" The website www.rhapsodyoffire.com will remain the glorious Rhapsody Of Fire website. In the future, if you want to know more about the new band of Luca Turilli, please check his personal website at www.lucaturilli.com.

 

 

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

JANI LANE - ONE LAST LEAD VOCAL TO BE RELEASED THIS WEEK: News from Liberty & Justice: "We are deeply sorry for the untimely passing of Jani Lane. Like many stars, his light burned very brightly but faded too quickly. We have one of, if not the last, recording that Mr. Lane finished in the studio. We have witnessed an out pouring of emotion from the world's music community regarding Jani's death. We feel obligated to his family, friends, and fans to share one of his last artistic endeavors. This single "Sin", was originally scheduled for release in early 2012 as part of a double CD from L 'N J entitled "The Cigar Chronicles." The song along with Lane features JK Northrup of King Kobra (who recorded and mixed the track), Keri Kelli of Alice Cooper, and Bill Leverty of Firehouse. The single, "Sin" from Liberty n' Justice featuring Jani Lane will be available for digital download through iTunes starting Tuesday 8-15-11 and other digital stores to follow in the next few weeks. The song was written by JK Northrup, Justin Murr, Jani Lane, Keri Kelli, & Scott Bolan. The song is published by Up-R-North Music (ASCAP), Justin Murr Music (BMI), & Snare Enterprises (ASCAP).The I-tunes artwork was done by David Dluzak and other medias by Mark Lanoue." Here is what people associated with the Liberty n' Justice project had to say: "Jani Lane was the Vincent Van Gogh of "Hair Band Melodic Hard Rock." A brilliant artist wrestling with his inner self. I came to know him through years of touring together and through many conversations. It was difficult to see him fight with his demons. He was my friend, my contemporary, and he will be truly missed. This may be one of, if not his last recording. The performance has a poignant message in relation to his life story. I know that for him, Rock and Roll Heaven is indeed, not too far away! Nothing but Love to you my Brother, Jani." ~ CJ Snare of Firehouse/Rubicon Cross. "In March of 2011, I was asked by Justin Murr to play on a song called "Sin". I gladly excepted the offer because Liberty n' Justice always puts out great music. The demo had a scratch vocal by the co-writer, JK Northrup that sounded really good, but I did not know who was going to be chosen to sing the real vocal. I've just learned that I was matched up with Jani Lane. I will tell you that Jani did an amazing job with his vocals. I am truly honored to be playing on this recording, which is quite possibly the last recording Jani ever made. I have extremely fond memories of touring with him since 1991 when we all became good friends on Warrant's "Blood, Sweat, & Beers Tours". Firehouse has played well over a 100 shows since then with Warrant and with Jani's solo gig. Our friendship has never faded. This song's lyrical content is very timely, and shows Jani in an extremely vulnerable and honest light, where he bares his soul in an uncanny way. RIP my brother, your music will always be with me..." ~ Bill Leverty of Firehouse. "Like everyone, I was shocked to hear about the passing of Jani. I was privileged to have opened a show with Warrant in Los Angeles at a large venue called "The Country Club". It was a sold out show, and just before they got signed! It was easy to see why Jani and Warrant would make such an impact on the music world with his stage presence and song writing abilities. Now some 24 years later, I found myself working with Jani on a song called "Sin" for the upcoming album with Justin Murr's "Liberty N' Justice" called "The Cigar Chronicle's". Jani's vocals and input on this song are very powerful! Although it was not intended for release until 2012, all involved felt the importance to get this song out to all of his fans to hear this amazing song. I know he will be smiling when this song is heard by all. My sincere condolences to all of his family and friends. He will be missed, but not forgotten! R.I.P Jani Lane!" ~ JK Northrup. Download an exclusive 1 minute MP3 clip of the song Sin here: L&J Sin. SONY TO RELEASE JOURNEY'S GREATEST HITS VOLUME 2 NOVEMBER 1: Sony/Legacy Recordings will celebrate the continued success of one of rock's biggest acts Journey with a sequel to the multi-million selling Greatest Hits album. Journey Greatest Hits Volume 2 will be released in the USA November 1. Sony and former lead vocalist Steve Perry chose the songs for the compilation with Neal Schon and Jonathan Cain offering no objections. As was the case with the original Greatest Hits, this set only covers the Steve Perry fronted Journey years. The cover art is final (as below), with liner notes and booklet still being finalized. Track Listing: 1. Stone In Love 2. After The Fall 3. Chain Reaction 4. The Party s Over (Hopelessly In Love) 5. Escape 6. Still They Ride 7. Good Morning Girl 8. Stay Awhile 9. Suzanne 10. Feeling That Way 11. Anytime 12. Walks Like A Lady 13. Little Girl 14. Just The Same Way 15. Patiently 16. When I Think Of You 17. Mother, Father (Live In Houston 1981).   KIVEL RECORDS AND FIREHOUSE SHOWS APPRECIATION FOR MILITARY AT SHOW: This from John Kivel at Kivel Records: "When planning a show/concert you have certain things that need to be dealt with. Fulfilling the requirements of the bands rider. Making sure the proper back line is in place, organize arrival times and ground transport. Sound check, hospitality, promotion. The list just goes on. This past Friday, what made Firehouse appearance in western MA a lil more special was due to something that wasn't a part of the typical show details. In the crowd was a special concert goer. Jeffery Hansen, who along with his wife. Drove all the way from Ohio to Western Ma, to see Firehouse and Farcry. Jeff Hansen is a big supporter of this scene, its bands and this very site. This show was a send-off of sorts. As two days later he would be shipping off to Afghanistan for a 1 year tour. What we wanted to do was make sure that this show/night was a night for him to remember. Guest list/VIP treatment...Check! Dinner...Check! Front Row...Check! Shout out from a crowd of strangers showing their appreciation for Jeff...Check! That it? No...How about Firehouse pulling Jeff up on stage and giving him a signed Ibanez guitar? YES!!! When we asked Firehouse if they would be willing to agree to this. They were more than happy to do it and went the extra mile making this definitely a night to remember for Jeff his Wife and everyone in attendance, again showing that they are some of the nicest bunch of guys in the biz. Bill Leverty - "I thought it was extremely cool of Kivel Records to give a guitar to Jeff Hansen, and it was my pleasure and privilege to sign it." Bill Leverty even handed over his own guitar, and asked Jeff to jam on stage with it. Unplanned, unexpected, however very much appreciated with a side of cool factor being that of a level 10! In Jeff's own words: "This was one of the best nights of my life! They are a great bunch of guys and rock just as hard now as they did when they came out in 1990! I was shocked when John Kivel handed me the guitar....too cool for words!" Thanks to CJ, Bill, Michael, Allen and Tour Manager Mark Peterson for helping all of us show our appreciation to Jeff Hansen. From all of us, Come home Safe Jeff and thank you to yourself and all your fellow men and woman of the US Armed Forces. See you at the next show..."   HIGH VOLTAGE FESTIVAL SPECIAL TO AIR ON UK TV: Sky Arts is pleased to announce the television transmission of this year's High Voltage Festival on Saturday 20th August at 10pm. Filmed in Hi-Definition, the 90-minute TV special includes performances from Black Country Communion, Slash, Judas Priest, Dream Theater, Rival Sons, Thin Lizzy, Thunder, Saint Jude, Michael Monroe, and Queensryche. "This year's High Voltage line-up was amazing," says Black Country Communion's front man, Glenn Hughes. "It was an honour and a privilege to play the festival." Voted Planet Rock's Festival of the Year, High Voltage 2011 features the crème de la crème of classic, progressive and heavy metal rock music from London's Victoria Park. Filmed by Blink Television for Sky Arts, the 90-minute special also includes exclusive band interviews, festival highlights and comments from the fans. High Voltage 2011 will be broadcast Saturday 20th August at 10pm on Sky Arts 1 HD (Channel 243), and Sky Arts 1 (Channel 244). For further information, visit the official Sky Arts web page announcement - www.skyarts.co.uk/music/article/high-voltage-2011. ESCAPE MUSIC DEBUT NEW SARACEN VIDEO CLIP:   CARLOS SANTANA TO HIT THE ROAD ON HIS COLLECTIVE CONSCIOUSNESS TOUR: On August 25, Carlos Santana will hit the road, trekking across the USA on his Collective Consciousness Tour. The tour begins in Seattle, Washington and ends in Los Angeles, California with stops in-between in Oklahoma, Colorado, Missouri, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada and Canada. Santana's close friend, George Lopez, will perform on selected dates, including two shows at Colorado's iconic venue, Red Rocks Amphitheater and the final date of the tour at the infamous Hollywood Bowl. Carlos told Classic Rock Revisited's Jeb Wright, "The songs are just vehicles. My band is one of the few bands that consistently brings it. When I say 'brings it', I mean when people listen to our band then they are reminded, on a molecular, and cellular level, that you have more love, energy, kindness, passion and patience than you think. That makes you relax with yourself, not relax like being idle, complacent or lazy, but instead to relax and not be frantic, desperate or nervous. All of a sudden, you take a deep breath, and realize that you have more than you thought. That's what is fortunate about my band. It brings a sound that reminds people that they are significant and meaningful. When people start investing too much into thinking, 'I'm a sinner' or I'm not worthy' then that is self-defeating. In other words, we bring clarity of conviction – not arrogance – but clarity of spirit, and that's why my band is important." In the interview, Santana also reveals how he came to invite George Lopez out on the road and his recent marriage to his drummer, Cindy Blackman. Carlos also talks about the spirituality that surrounds his life and music and hooks us up with the guy that can get us some of his cool hats! Read it all here: www.classicrockrevisited.com/interviewSantana.htm. Interview with Mark Tremonti of Alter Bridge/Creed and solo at RockEyez: www.rockeyez.com/interviews/2011-08-alter-bridge-creed/int-2011-06-bmr-mark-tremonti-alter-bridge-creed.html. TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest podcast (episode #123), featuring Guitarist Tony McAlpine. Tony took time out of his busy schedule to discuss his first solo record in 11 years, simply titled Tony McAlpine. Tony also discussed what it was like to be solo again as well as his upcoming tour plans. Interview lasts approx. 35 min. Do you ever think you have missed the boat with a classic artist? There are several classic artists that have had successful careers and are staples in the hard rock/heavy metal genre, but do you own any of their albums? Join Genghis and Ragman as they discuss some of the artists that they never really got into, and why. Next, guitar virtuoso Tony McAlpine joins the guys for a heart to heart, discussing his first solo CD in almost 11 years as well as what he has been up to since leaving the Steve Vai band. HEART LOOK TO ROCK HARDER ON NEXT ALBUM: From Billboard.com: "There was a six-year gap between Heart's latest album, "Red Velvet Car" in 2010, and its predecessor, "Jupiter's Darling." But Ann and Nancy Wilson aren't planning to take nearly as long again. In fact, Nancy tells Billboard.com, they're already well along on the next one. "We've got most of it written already," Wilson says. "We're writing again and working on songs with ('Red Velvet Car') producer Ben Mink. This time we're gonna go a little more heavy rock, a little more electric guitar. And so far so good; I think there's some really amazing songs already." Wilson says the sisters and Mink have demoed "about eight songs already," working "in various hotel rooms...with microphones and his laptop and a couple of speakers and some guitars and notebooks. Me and Ann work on stuff independently of each other and we bring our notebooks, and (Mink) brings musical ideas, too, and we write together and just put everything together." Heart -- which this year celebrates the 35th anniversary of its debut album, "Dreamboat Annie" -- hasn't previewed any of the new songs yet during its summer tour with Def Leppard, but Wilson expects to play something new before the trek wraps Oct. 29 in Australia. "It's not unlikely that we would probably road test something in the course of the summer," she predicts. "We're still kind of polishing and buffing the rough demos so far, but we're getting excited." Heart expects to hit the studio "as soon as the tour is done...and hopefully we can have everything recorded by Christmas." Meanwhile, the Wilson have joined forces with Seattle-based writer Charles Cross -- who's authored books about Kurt Cobain, Led Zeppelin and Jimi Hendrix -- on a memoir they hope to publish in 2012. "We're telling the whole story," Wilson says. "I think it's important to be kind of brutally honest without making anyone else feel bad in any way, if possible. There's a lot of stuff the you remember that's like, 'Wow, why did I do this with that person?' or 'What was I thinking?!' or 'How controlling was so and so?' It's definitely not a sensational, tell-tale book because that's never who we are. There's going to be some wild parties and some failed relationships, but not too much more dark stuff really." Wilson adds that she's been particularly surprised by sister Ann's "incredible" memory during the process. "I feel like I've had a lot of painful situations that I intentionally delete from my memory," says the guitarist, who divorced from husband Cameron Crowe in 2010. "So it's been really good to have Ann there to remember a lot of this stuff because I think I kind of have defense mechanisms with forgetfulness." StoryLink: www.billboard.com/artist/heart/4802#/news/heart-recording-new-album-telling-the-whole-1005315402.story. KANSAS ALUM RELEASES FIRST ALBUM AFTER SUFFERING STROKE: Kerry Livgren, who wrote such songs as "Dust in the Wind" and "Carry On Wayward Son" has released a new album with his band Proto-Kaw. Livgren shared the recovery process of his stroke with www.classicrockrevisited.com, "At first, I couldn't play a guitar, or a keyboard. In fact, I couldn't even give music any serious thought. I was much more concerned with things like walking and talking. As soon as there was some improvement in those areas, I tried playing a piano, with no real success. When I got home, I tried playing a guitar, and it was, in fact, worse. I honestly thought I would never play music again. It was disappointing but the thought occurred to me that I had been given such a great gift - a gratifying career of playing music, that if I never played another note, it was enough. Thank the Lord I am still improving. At this point, I have resumed playing both guitar and keyboard, although I have to be choosy about what I attempt." Proto-Kaw's new album Forth is out. "There are 12 songs, one song was previously recorded with Proto-Kaw, one we used to play live, but never recorded, and two vastly different songs that I have recorded. The rest of them are new." BAND'S NEW VIDEO, BOB ROCK-PRODUCED "HEARTBREAKER," DEBUTS EXCLUSIVELY ON NBC MORNING SHOW SITE: Loverboy has never really gone away, but these days, the veteran Canadian rockers are not only continuing to entertain audiences young and old, but, to quote one of their biggest hits, they're "Lovin' Every Minute of It." The group's new single, "Heartbreaker," produced by Juno award winner Bob Rock, who was the engineer on Loverboy's self-titled, 1980 debut, is now a video. It premiered exclusively on NBC's The Today Show site Today.com, with an accompanying article which you can read at: today.msnbc.msn.com/id/44062156/ns/today-entertainment/ . Rock also has a cameo in the clip, which was inspired by the kind of DIY viral videos popular on YouTube. Guitarist Paul Dean, who formed the band in Calgary, Alberta, 30 years ago with vocalist Mike Reno, going on to sell 10 million albums, said, "I really like that the video looks organic and real. We learned from the best videographers around…all those kids who post their short films on the Internet, like the skateboarders." Reno also points to the Web for the renewed interest in the band, whose four multi-platinum albums have yielded such arena-rock hits as "Working for the Weekend," "Hot Girls in Love" and "Turn Me Loose." "I'm happy and gratified with what we're doing now," Reno told Today.com. "We're still here, the fans are still here, now they're bringing their kids. For me, it just couldn't get better. We are surrounded by a whole new breed of youngsters that know all the words. They got the headbands on, they got the T-shirts…"

 

 

Monday, August 15, 2011

BOSTON 85% DONE WITH NEW ALBUM: It's been a fair while (as usual), but news has emerged from the Boston camp: "We truly enjoyed having Michael Sweet sing and play guitar on stage for the 2008 Boston tour along with Tommy Decarlo, who was the lead vocalist replacing Brad Delp. However, Michael has not been involved in the recording of Boston's next studio album, which is now 85% complete. We have always understood his obvious commitment to his band Stryper, and wish him and his band the best of luck with their new endeavors. The lead vocals for Boston's soon to be released studio album include Brad Delp's singing on many songs, along with several excellent performances by our other three lead vocalists. The album reflects an intentional effort by principal songwriter and producer Tom Scholz to capture the recognizable sound and energy of his original releases, combined with the musical sophistication expected from exceptional players and vocalists all performing within the traditional framework of the well known Boston sound." And this from Michael Sweet: "I feel the need to clarify that my statement released on 8/10/2011 about my decision to focus on Stryper in the near and distant future and therefore not allowing me the time to perform with Boston, certainly should not imply that Boston is no more. They will continue on and all Boston fans should be encouraged and excited about the future of the band and what lies ahead. I wish them nothing but the best and as a fan myself, I'll be the first in line when they tour and the first to purchase the next Boston record!"   DRUMMER RODGER CARTER DISHES UP SECOND COVERS CD: Rodger Carter - drummer for Rick Springfield's band - has finished a new CD of covers with some great artists on it. Guest artists on Licorice Pizza include: John Waite, Dilana, Rick Springfield, John 5, Lita Ford, Becca, Debby Holiday and many more. Check it out and order via: www.thedoghousestudio.com/licorice_pizza.   ANDY TAYLOR TALKS NEW ALBUM AND VISIBLE TARGET SINGLE: More news from guitar great Andy Taylor as he readies a brand new long time coming solo album. Follow the links for more information. Highlights from Andy's latest newsletter: 1. New Blog Post - "The Ibiza Hip Hop Conspiracy" thetaylortank.com - I'm encouraging everyone to subscribe to the blog, this then gives you options for the direct delivery of Posts & Information via email. 2. Visible Target 2.0 - The track is available free on a Topspin widget: visibletarget.net. All of my future releases & product, both paid & free are powered in conjunction with Topspin. You are requested to enter your email address currently to receive the track, rest assured, it is stored in my account and will not be used by any other party. A bit about the track itself... I guess it's is more experimental in terms of it production, I was playing with drum & bass beats vrs guitars - Which I then morphed into real drums, with a kind of electronic casing - It's probably not the most representative piece overall on the album, but I guess significant in terms of direction change. 3. Gimme A Wristband. [Interview] There's a piece on the site which I did simply because I like the way Kitty writes... gimmeawristband.com/exclusive-interview-andy-taylors-visible-target. 4. Previews of New Material. There will be sneak previews of new material available as we complete mixing. This will be hosted on Andy Taylor Radio & should be available sometime next week, as soon as we are live I will let you know. 5. Twitter et all... After much a-do about the "time you don't have" to invest in social media, I was heartened to read the transcript of a John Mayer talk, where he virtually mirrored what I feel, which is that the only way for an artist to remain creatively focused on writing & recording is to turn it off throughout the process. Of course making records is reclusive & anti-social pastime, often conducted from a room full of gadgets with no windows !!! Eventually, after a month or two one gently turns grey - Otherwise known as "The Studio Tan"... We have a new Twitter account for The Taylor Tank blog: twitter.com/thetaylortank. Planning on going live soon - Yet - Still debating how we use it!! I will let you know... Enjoy your day / evening / morning or wherever you may be vacationing... ~ Andy. ERIC RIVERS FROM H.E.A.T TALKS TO BEROCK'S RADIO MINIZINE: Eric Rivers from H.E.A.T talks to BeRock's radio minizine about the past and the Future of the Band: Georock: Hi to all of you guys. How are you? Can you tell us what are you currently doing? Probably working your asses off for the new album! Eric: That's absolutely correct, we're working hard on new songs and they are turning out great! Georock: It's been almost a year without Kenny handling the vocals. Surely his departure was a hard hit for the band. How did you feel when he told you about his decision? Eric: Of course it was sad news, but at the same time it was also a relief for everyone involved with the band. Things had been bad between Kenny and us for quite some time, and everyone saw this coming… So the best thing to do was to go separate ways and it was really the right thing to do! Full Interview here: minizine.berock-live.com/html/interviews/pages011/heat.html?tag=result;title;0. ICONIC TONIC RECENTLY SIGNED WITH JAMSYNC MUSIC: Iconic Tonic recently signed with Jamsync Music for the release of their upcoming project titled 'Rock And Roll'. 'Rock And Roll' was mixed and produced by Deron Daum at Magic Mix Studio in Seattle, WA with mastering completed by David Donnelly at DNA Mastering in Los Angeles. 'Rock And Roll' is set for a November 8th release and will be distributed via MVD. Track Listing: 1. MMXI 2. Out Loud 3. I Can't Breathe 4. Paramount 5. Zombie Baby 6. Lost At Sea 7. Bring You Down 8. Time To Be With You 9. St. Abbey 10. The One 11. Iconic Tonic 12. I Will Love You. Iconic Tonic is wrapping up video production for the lead off track 'Zombie Baby'. More information on Iconic Tonic at jamsyncmusic.com. INTROMETAL INTRODUCES PROG-METAL BAND PSYAXIS: Intromental Worldwide is extremely proud to welcome one of the most exciting new power/progressive metal bands that we've laid ears upon in recent years. From Florida (the Sunshine State that brought us Kamelot, Savatage, Iced Earth and Crimson Glory a.o.) hails Psyaxis - a band of 4 extremely talented musicians, dedicated to the cause of serving you, the listener, with a slab of hard hitting powerful prog metal. Psyaxis was founded by Florida based lead guitarist/songwriter Matt Roberts in April of 2006. His penchant for various types of metal and fusion music inspired him to forge a new type of sound, combining his favorite elements of music into one band. He began writing the debut album immediately and sought out musicians to help realize his artistic vision. Imperiled by lineup changes and difficulty finding musicians of an adequate caliber, Psyaxis was restrained from its full potential until early 2008 when Matt began working with John Zambrotto, who would go on to be the band's permanent vocalist. Having secured a strong vocalist, Psyaxis entered the studio with Rick Mazz behind the drumkit to record the first version of "Infinity of Pain" at Red Room Studios in Tampa, Fl, with Mark Prator behind the console. They proceeded to play local shows around the Tampa area, sharing the stage with bands such as The Absence, Circle II Circle, and Seven Kingdoms. In the summer of 2009, they recorded early versions of "Disciples of Allah" and "No One Gets Out Alive" at Mana Studios, in St Petersburg, Fl. This experience ignited a strong working relationship between Matt and recording engineer, Brian Elliott. Psyaxis continued to play around the Tampa area, progressively opening for larger acts such as WASP, Jon Oliva's Pain, Fuel, etc. They had various drummers, rhythm guitarists, and bassists fill in the shows until Matt met bassist Miles Neff, formerly of Seven Kingdoms. He proved to be an excellent fit and became a permanent member from that point. After playing the local circuit and securing the necessary, Psyaxis once again entered the studio; this time to record the full length debut "Black Dawn Rising". For the recordings Matt enlisted highly-acclaimed drummer, Marco Minnemann (known from UKZ, Necrophagist, Ultimate Zero, Ephel Duath and many more). However, the duo proved to have an exceptionally strong chemistry both inside and outside of the studio. This established Marco's permanent role in the band. The album was recorded in 3 weeks at Mana studios, engineered and co-produced by Brian Elliott. With such strong material as the powerful title song, the politically infused "Disciples of Allah", the ultra melodic "Dreadful Visions" or the progressive opener "Salvation Denied", Psyaxis immediately caught the attention of renowned management and booking company Intromental Worldwide, and a deal was soon in place for Intromental to start promoting Psyaxis. Musically Psyaxis draws on the heavy power metal of bands such as Iced Earth or Savatage (with guitarist Matt Roberts bearing an uncanny resemblance to the late Criss Oliva in his soloing), the melodic prog of a Dream Theater (no wonder that drummer Marco Minnemann was among the remaining choices for the vacant spot in DT earlier this year) to a more modern and aggressive sound that can only be described as unique for Psyaxis. Lineup: John Zambrotto - Vocals, Matt Roberts - Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Miles Neff - Bass, Marco Minnemann - Drums. WEB: www.intromental.com/psyaxis / www.reverbnation.com/psyaxis.

 

 

Friday, August 12, 2011

R.I.P. JANI LANE - DEAD AT 47: Jani Lane -- former lead singer of the rock band Warrant has died. The popular singer's body was discovered at the Comfort Inn hotel in Woodland Hills, CA. So far, no official cause of death has been released. Jani had a long history of addiction, but was always revered for his songwriting talent and his death is yet another body blow to the rock community. He is gone way too early and his fans will long mourn his passing. R.I.P Jani. A number of people have already expressed their disbelief and sadness at Jani's passing. Some are listed here: Michael Sweet: "My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Jani Lane. Had the pleasure of meeting him on TMS and he was a great guy." Glenn Hughes: "RIP Janie Lane...another one lost ...GH" and "We must remember that the unlucky ones who lose their life to Alcohol and drugs, are those that could not completely surrender~sad day, GH." Michael Eden & Eden's Curse: "This is another sad day for our community that continues to lose rock warriors one by one. On behalf of Eden's Curse and myself we express our sincere and deepest sympathy to the entire Oswald family as well as Jani's band members past and present. Jani left his mark on an ever changing business and his family can be proud of knowing he wrote some of the biggest songs in Hard Rock and heavy metal history. These songs speak to us and will never leave us. Jani was a gifted song writer/ performer that had a special talent not often found in today's artists. Tonight as I write this I blast Mr. Rainmaker in hopes that Jani knows we will never forget him or the great songs he leaves behind. RIP!!!" Dave Reynolds: "I am truly stunned and very, very saddened at this news. I only spoke to Jani a couple of weeks ago after he graciously agreed to be interviewed for a historical piece on Warrant I was writing. He was in a good mood, very candid and we had an excellent hour long conversation about his career that he later e-mailed me to say that he had thoroughly enjoyed. The guy has battled various demons for a long time, but I always found him to be great company in my dealings with him over the last twenty years and feel that he was always extremely underrated as a song writer. I really am truly shocked by this news. Rest In Peace Jani, my friend." Vic Rivera: "He'll ultimately be remembered as one of the great writers of his genre. R.I.P., man." Tony Mills: "Great writer, singer and performer, will be sadly missed." Stephen Pearcy: "Sad to hear today. R.I.P. Jani Lane." Paul Laine: "RIP Jani Lane of Warrant." Billboarddotcom: Sad news to report. Jani Lane, ex-Warrant singer, found dead at 47. t.co/5Xj26QW. Kevin Shirley: "R.I.P. Jani Lane." The Hollywood Reporter: "Jani Lane's Death: Hollywood, Fellow Musicians React: t.co/qJDg61h. Kelly Hansen: "So very sad about the passing of Janie Lane. We came up at the same time. I'll remember his voice. My heart goes out to his family & fans." Trixter: "R. I. P. Jani Lane..." Bret Michaels: "We'd like to offer our deepest condolences to the family of Jani Lane regarding their loss. Respectfully, Bret and all at MEGI."   H.E.A.T SIGNS RECORD DEAL WITH GAIN/SONY MUSIC: Gain has signed a record contract with H.E.A.T. The band had their breakthrough in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song "1000 Miles" and is worldwide considered to be the new big band in the AOR genre. Classic Rock Magazine (United Kingdom) recently wrote the following about the band's appearance at the Download Festival: "A full-fledged homage to AOR that belies their youth, H.e.a.t are one of the weekend's unexpected highlights. So free of cynicism are they in their love of their heroes, and so thorough in their attention to detail that the likeable Swedes are totally lost in the moment, and that vibe radiates until it reaches everyone in the tent." The band will enter the studio in November this year to record their third album which is scheduled for release early next year. - "Working with Gain has for a long time been one of our dream scenarios. We are more inspired than ever and will take the energy and the time needed for the world to experience the best H.E.A.T album to date", says Jimmy Jay of H.E.A.T. - "H.E.A.T has for a long time been at the top of our wish list and it's incredibly fun to finally get to work with the band. They've already laid down a strong foundation in Sweden and around the world. We are confident that together we will be able to lift the band to be the world leader in the AOR genre", says Mark Tagaris, GAIN. ASIA FEATURING JOHN PAYNE WELCOMES GUITARIST BRUCE BOUILLET ON SUMMER LIVE DATES: Los Angeles, CA ­ Classic and progressive rock band Asia Featuring John Payne announce a series of summer live dates with a new member, incredible virtuoso guitarist Bruce Bouillet: August 12, 2011 Coconut Creek, Florida: Seminole Casino August 13, 2011 Hollister, CA: Peppertree Ranch/Guerra Family Cellars August 26, 2011 Lewiston Idaho: Hot August Nights at Pioneer Park August 27, 2011 Moses Lake, WA: Moses Lake Centennial Amphitheater (Free Show) September 2, 2011 Denver, CO: A Taste of Colorado (Free Show) September 3, 2011 Dubuque, IA: Diamond Jo Casino, Mississippi Moon Bar Bouillet made his name playing explosive, yet precise melodic guitar with Racer X and The Scream. Later he formed Epidemic, touring with acts including Nickelback and Seether. In 2005, Bouillet won a Grammy® award for his production work with Motorhead. He also works with Paul Gilbert, with whom he recently toured as part of G3, along with with Joe Satriani and John Petrucci. He has just finished his third solo instrumental album. Bruce is now working with the band in the studio on their upcoming album Americana. "The band and myself are excited to welcome our good friend Bruce and look forward to a new chapter for us all," remarked John Payne. The Asia Featuring John Payne lineup is: John Payne (lead vocals, bass); Bruce Bouillet (guitars, backing vocals); Erik Norlander (keyboards, backing vocals); Jay Schellen (drums, backing vocals). John Payne became the frontman of the supergroup Asia in 1992 at the invitation of keyboardist Geoff Downes, replacing vocalist/bassist John Wetton. With John Payne fronting the band, ASIA released 8 stunning studio albums, several live albums, a live DVD and toured the world extensively for 14 years. In 2006, Geoff Downes left the band to reform the 1982 line up for their 25th anniversary. On the 9th of May 2006, John Payne, Geoff Downes, John Wetton, Carl Palmer and Steve Howe contractually agreed that John Payne would continue his 14 year legacy with Asia as "Asia Featuring John Payne". Asia Featuring John Payne have been touring in North America since 2008, with noted keyboardist Erik Norlander and progressive rock drummer Jay Schellen. In 2009 the band released an EP entitled "Military Man". A new studio album entitled "Americana" is planned for release in 2011. More information: www.theasiaband.com. DOOGIE WHITE UNVEILS ALBUM ARTWORK: Metal Mind Productions is proud to announce the release of Doogie White's solo album - As Yet Untitled. This Scottish vocalist came to the attention of the worldwide audience when Ritchie Blackmore asked him to be the lead singer in his reformed Rainbow. They recorded one album together - Stranger in Us All. Doogie would go on to sing with Swedish neo-classical guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen for over a six and a half year period, record two albums and tour the world. He also recorded four albums and toured with Cornerstone and is currently the lead singer of Tank, who embark on selected European dates starting this August. Doogie White will release his first solo album through Metal Mind Productions on October 24. The album called As Yet Untitled is a collection of 10 dramatic and hard hitting rock songs co-written by White and some good friends he has made over the years on the rock scene. Tracklist: 1. Come Taste the Band 2. Time Machine 3. Dreams Lie Down and Die 4. Lonely 5. Land of the Deceiver 6. Secret Jesus 7. Sea of Emotion 8. Catz got yer Tongue 9. Living on the Cheap 10. Times like These. WebLinks: www.metalmind.com.pl / www.myspace.com/metalmindproductions.   FREE DOWNLOAD FROM JOE BONAMASSA & BETH HART: To celebrate the release of the "Don't Explain" album – a collaboration between American singer-songwriter Beth Hart and the acclaimed blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa, the duo are making their version of Delaney & Bonnie's classic "Well, Well" available as a free MP3 download single. All you have to do is sign up to jbxp.net, input your email address, and you will receive the free download. CD, Digital Download and 12" Vinyl editions of "Don't Explain" will be released in the UK and Europe on Monday 26th September, and can be pre-ordered from Amazon UK. Produced by Kevin Shirley (John Hiatt, The Black Crowes, Joe Bonamassa, Black Country Communion), "Don't Explain" combines Hart's raspy and soulful vocals against Bonamassa's signature guitar sound. The pair collaborate on a stunning collection of hand-picked soul classics from the likes of Gil Scott-Heron, Tom Waits, Etta James, Billie Holiday, and Aretha Franklin. Full tracklisting and for further info: www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/provogue/hart-bonamassa.htm. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new live shows: - Journey - Live on Radio - Ohio 2011 (Radio broadcast, full show) - Glenn Hughes - Sao Paulo - Brazil 99 (7 Tracks) - Rick Springfield - 2010-11-05 Atlantic City (Full show, audience recording) - Rick Springfield - 2011-07-10 New Brunswick (Full show, audience recording) MRX Membership Details. REVIEWS UPDATED: New Reviews added today for: Toby Hitchcock, Work of Art, Outloud, Within Temptation, Black Country Communion, Bai Bang, Mike Tramp, Mickey Thomas, Big Life, Miss behaviour, Pushking, Soren Andersen, Sven Larsson and the Whole Lotta Love tribute release. Read the new Reviews.

 

 

Thursday, August 11, 2011

JON LORD ANNOUNCES HE HAS CANCER: From Gibson, via JonLord.org: Jon Lord, former keyboardist and founding member of hard rock legends Deep Purple, revealed on his website yesterday that he has been diagnosed with cancer. Lord said that he would be taking a break from public performance for the next year so that he can undergo treatment, but will continue to write music. Lord's statement read: "I would like all my friends, followers, fans and fellow travelers to know that I am fighting cancer and will therefore be taking a break from performing while getting the treatment and cure. I shall of course be continuing to write music — in my world it just has to be part of the therapy — and I fully expect to be back in good shape next year. God bless and see you soon." JonLord.org added the following: "May we also, at Jon's request, ask if everyone could please respect his need for privacy so that he can spend time with his family (and his music)." The same day, the 70-year-old Lord announced the release of a new orchestral album, titled Jon Lord Live. ANDY TAYLOR UNVEILS BRAND NEW SONG AND BLOG: Former Duran Duran and Power Station guitarist Andy Taylor has broken his silence to announce a beta-launch of his new website, along with the free download of a brand new song from his upcoming solo album. The song is titled Visible Target. Unfortunately for fans expecting Andy to return to his Thunder or Dangerous days will be very disappointed. The song is not a good way of setting up anticipation of what's to come with the new album. From Andy's update: "Please check-out the Beta version of my new blog: thetaylortank.com. Its a very basic launch as we work towards a fuller magazine style presentation over the coming months. Which will serve as a central means to keep you informed regarding forthcoming releases & events. If you subscribe to the blog you will receive automatic updates at your discretion. For your pleasure - At the bottom of the landing page there are several links. Click on the "New Album" link to find The Beta version of my New Album Track Widgets. Get a free new album track, mixed only a few days ago at the end of the recording sessions [at last]... "Becoming an independent artist in these times, is both littered with opportunities & challenges, the fundamental difference being that the both are so nascent that we really don't know nor can be entirely confident of what the outcome may bring, but hey, what would life be without an element of creative risk." All good in the hood..." ~ Andy. MELODICROCK CDs - SHIPPING UPDATES: I must send out apologies to those readers that have pre-ordered MRCD8 The Next Chapter. Due to a couple of over-sights, the booklet in the finished product has several errors, bad enough to warrant the booklet being scrapped and re-printed. That's all underway now, but instead of the CDs being shipped late last week, they will now ship next week, as soon as the new booklet's arrive. The CDs will remain shrink wrapped, with the new booklet included in the package to exchange with the original when you unwrap the CD. Taxxi pre-orders will all be shipped out Monday. That bonus MP3 track will be sent out at the same time via e-mail. Riverdogs and Chris Antblad CDs are almost done and will be shipped out in a few weeks - well in advance of the official release date of September 30. Pre-orders still open!     KILL DEVIL HILL AND PLANET 9 TOUR: Planet 9 is announcing an upcoming tour beginning in October with Kill Devil Hill the new band featuring Vinny Appice (Heaven & Hell, Black Sabbath, Dio) on drums, Rex Brown (Down, Pantera) on bass, Mark Zavon (RATT, W.A.S.P., 40 Cycle Hum) on guitar and Jason "Dewey" Bragg (Pissing Razors) on vocals. Tour Dates: Sun 10/02/11 Clifton, NJ Dingbatz Tue 10/04/11 Morgantown, WV 123 Pleasant St. Wed 10/05/11 Reading, PA Reverb Fri 10/07/11 Charlotte, NC Tremont Music Hall Sat 10/08/11 Spartanburg, SC Ground Zero Sun 10/09/11 Greensboro, NC Arizona Pete's Fri 10/14/11 Fort Worth, TX The Aardvark Sat 10/15/11 Houston, TX Warehouse Live Thu 10/20/11 Shreveport, LA The Warehouse Fri 10/21/11 Lafayette, LA Vermillionville Wed 11/02/11 Des Moines, IA House Of Bricks Fri 11/04/11 Salina, KS The Santa Fe Saloon Sat 11/05/11 Cape Girardeau, MO Pitters Cafe and Lounge Planet 9 released their self titled debut July 26th on Jamsync Music. BRAZILIAN ROCKERS MINDFLOW TO SUPPORT UFO ON NEW TOUR DATES: British rockers UFO have confirmed additional tour dates for the West Coast leg of their North American tour which kicks off this September in Santa Rosa, CA. The band will be touring in support of their greatest hits collection "Best of a Decade" which is out now on SPV/Steamhammer. UFO is also in the process of working on a new studio album which is scheduled for release in early 2012. 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. Providing direct support on the tour with be Brazilian rockers Mindflow. Their latest release "With Bare Hands" is available now on Nightmare Records. Heavy metal, hard rock, modern rock...try to put Mindflow's music into a category and you either don't know where to stop or you can't find the words. It's all there - the compelling energy of the rhythm section - drums and bass pounding relentless power. UFO On Tour With Mindflow 9/15: Santa Rosa, CA @ Last Day Saloon 9/16: Sacramento/Orangevale, CA @ Boardwalk 9/17: Santa Clara, CA @ Avalon 9/19: Portland, OR @ The Aladdin Theater 9/21: Modesto, CA @ The Fat Cat 9/23: Las Vegas, NV @ Boulder Station Casino 9/24: Los Angeles, CA @The Key Club 9/26: Ventura, CA @ Ventura Theater 9/27: Fresno, CA @ Warnor's Center For The Performing Arts 9/29: San Juan Capistrano, CA @ The Coach House 9/30: San Diego, CA @ Brick By Brick 10/4: Tucson, AZ @ The Rock 10/6: Dallas, TX @ House of Blues 10/7: Houston, TX @ Warehouse Live Studio 10/8: San Antonio, TX @ Backstage Live For more info visit: www.ufo-music.info / www.spv.de / www.letyourmindflow.com.

 

 

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

VAN HALEN SOUNDWAVE UPDATE: A Van Halen and Soundwave Revolution Festival update for you. I'm hearing from one of my sources connected to the band that Van Halen did NOT pull out of the Soundwave Festival and had things gone ahead as planned, the band was 100% ready to appear as publicised. I have no reason to doubt this info, but I will state that I find it puzzling and somewhat disappointing there is no "official" word or statement from the band. I am also told that there are now no plans for Van Halen to tour Australia. That's 2011/2012 folks....no plans at all. 13 years since their first tour and now nothing. I'm hearing that the US tour remains in planning to commence in November and the studio album is due by that time. I also hear that the band are looking for European Festival appearances for summer 2012, not necessarily any standalone dates for that region. Now, as far as Soundwave - I still call bullshit on their statement. Further information heard today suggests that Aerosmith were the second headliner that pulled out of negotiations, but even then - that alone is not reason for a full scale cancellation. I heard that ticket sales were way below expectation, probably due to the fact the whole line-up was a mis-match of styles and organizers failed to appeal to any one core audience. This is Soundwave's latest statement: "It is with great sadness that we announce the cancellation of the Revolution Festival. Many of the festival bands will still be coming to Australia in that time period and team up to bring you some very special shows. These will include multi band/mini festival line-ups in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. We will be announcing these events in the next 7 days. Tickets purchased online will be refunded automatically as soon as it can be processed. If you purchased from an outlet, refunds will be available next week from point of purchase." If there is any change to the information I'm getting, or updates....I'll be sure to post asap. POWER QUEST TALK UK RIOTS: "Is this what we call being Civilised?" - Watching the recent events unfolding in London and elsewhere in the country has compelled me to put my thoughts down on paper. I cannot believe that in the 21st century, and in a supposedly civilised society, we are witnessing such disgraceful and shameful acts of criminal damage, violence, theft and intimidation. I was listening to the BBC coverage into the small hours this morning and was appalled, not only by the perpetrators themselves, but also by those who were just standing by and watching and generally getting in the way of police and other emergency services who were just trying to do their job and deal with what was, and still is, a horrific situation. There is no justification for stealing someone elses possessions or trashing their property that they have worked so hard for over the years. Running amok and wearing masks is not only disorderly but cowardly as well. If violence is your belief system then at least have the courage to show your face! Moreover I even saw, on one live broadcast from Croydon, people laughing and joking in the background while the reporter told us of homes being destroyed and businesses being razed to the ground. It just beggars belief in my humble opinion. I would like to say that my thoughts and those of Paul, Andy, Rich, Gav and Chity are very much with those affected by these shameful acts and I hope that we don't see the violence spreading further across our country although, sadly, it seems that this has already happened. The vast majority of UK residents are peaceful, decent people and between us we will never let hooligans and thugs dictate to the rest of us. "If you listen to fools.....the Mob Rules". Stay safe everyone! ~ Steve Williams 9/8/11 www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMbyzGI4eGg. CONQUEST RELEASE THE SINGLE NEVER FORGET - A TRIBUTE TO 9/11: As a tribute to the 10 year anniversary of 9/11, the band Conquest have just released their new single called Never Forget. "We must remember all the people that died that day" quotes singer Derrick Brumley. "This is a song about America. The greatest country in the world. The land of the free and the home of the brave. This song goes out to all the brave men and women in uniform who continue to protect this great nation. We may have our good times and our bad times but we as Americans always stand tall and vigilant. And, we must Never Forget." The album artwork for the single shows a six year old little girl pledging the allegiance to the flag. The model is Abigail Van Blarcom of SGL Entertainment. The band Conquest hail from St. Lois Missouri, USA and are a pure breed of heavy metal. The song Never Forget can be heard every Tuesday night on KSHE FM and is also available for download at iTunes, Amazon.com, Rhapsody and over 100 other digital retailers worldwide via Dark Star Records. Download the new single Never Forget from iTunesitunes.apple.com/us/album/never-forget-single/id452202926. For more info on Conquest Go To: www.conquestmetal.com / www.myspace.com/conquestmetal.

 

 

Tuesday, August 09, 2011

VAN HALEN AUSTRALIAN TOUR OFF AFTER FESTIVAL DEMISE: It's been 13 years since Van Halen hit Australian shores for the first time - the band featuring David Lee Roth has never toured here. So the excitement, expectation and hype surrounding their visit here as part of September's nationwide Soundwave Festival was hitting fever pitch...before it was today cancelled. Yep...the whole festival. And it's being blamed on an unknown, unnamed second headliner, whose last minute withdrawal (without ever being publicized) cause the promoter to re-think the event's financial viability. Honest to God, I don't think I have ever heard a lamer excuse for a cancellation. The festival was booked to hit residents in 5 capital cities and was to feature 40+ bands including Alice Cooper, Machine Head, Hole, Danzig, Panic At The Disco, Alter Bridge, Yellowcard, Sum 41, Story Of The Year, Steel Panther and many more. Here is event mainman AJ Maddah on why he chose to pull the plug today: "We could have taken the option of linking through with the line-up as we have now – it would have obviously still been a much better financial outcome for us than to go through the road we have – but we just didn't want to put an inferior product on the market." I call BULLSHIT - could anyone really take this statement seriously? So what of Van Halen's involvement? Did they have anything to do with this? Early rumors spread stating it was them who had in fact pulled out, suggesting that the band needed to stay in Los Angeles to continue work on their new studio album in order to get it completed in time for the November launch of their 2011/2012 world tour (world minus Australia now). So far nothing official though. I have put requests for comment into management and the band's PR agents. As of right now, no replies. Just released - the full Soundwave Revolution statement (which still doesn't make it any clearer): ""The festival as we know it has been cancelled, the situation is we were scheduling to make a second announcement on the 1st August, that had our festival co-headliner on that announcement and their circumstances changed at the last minute and they had to pull out and unfortunately we don't have enough time to replace them and we didn't really want to go ahead with an incomplete line-up. We were supposed to make the public announcement this evening, but what we wanted to do, because a lot of those bands are still coming and we are creating packages and what have you for them to do in clubs and what have you, we wanted to make the full announcement as one so we could say the festival in its format is no longer happening but these shows are taking its place, but unfortunately one of the artists jumped the gun. I think 99% of people have purchased their tickets via credit card in which case those people will be automatically refunded and the small percentage who may have bought it from outlets will be able to get a refund too. It wasn't a fact of not being able to attract the artists, we were a victim of certain artists circumstances… we love our fanbase and we try to do what is best for them and we could have taking the option of limping through with the line-up that we have now, it still would have been a better financial outcome for us then the road we have chosen but we didn't want to pout an inferiors product on the market. Revolution was a one-off but Soundwave 2012 will be back in February and the line-up is massive." INTRODUCING SENCELLED: Sencelled is a Swedish four-piece rock band from a suburb just north of Stockholm. Their music is essentially melody-driven rock (not that far from AOR) with a twist of the power pop of say, Rick Springfield - mixed with a small part of the Green Day of the 90's. It's music from the heart, about love, suburbian life and the urge to get out of your shell and make something great of yourself. Emotionally, powerfully sung by Erik Holmberg, flavoured brilliantly by Fredrik Askenstrom's guitar playing and powered up by the energy-packed duo of Christoffer Ahl on drums and Mattias Ohlsén on bass - this is a band to seriously look out for. The debut album, which has already been hailed as one of 2011's most important in the rock community of Sweden, is produced by the great Ricky B Delin (who last year won acclaim for Houston - 2010's best AOR album in Classic Rock Magazine) and mixed by the legendary Robert Wellerfors. It is set for release worldwide on September 23, 2011. The first single 'Breathe Out' is now available for radio, and will soon hit the market.   xx DANGER ZONE MOVE TO THE USA IN THE RECORDING PROCESS FOR UPCOMING NEW ALBUM: Danger Zone are currently busy working on the long awaited follow up to "Line Of Fire" (Avenue of Allies 2011) and while some 15 tunes has been penned and demoed, original band member and vocalist, Giacomo Gigantelli, will soon move to the USA to make a step forward in the vocals recording process. Giacomo will meet up with a well renewed and international music producer to lay down vocals and harmonies for what is expected Danger Zone hit to the heat goal. Stay tuned for new exciting updates from the Danger Zone camp! www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTDBLEDa3cw. "REBORN IN SLEAZE: A TRIBUTE TO DAVE LEPARD": COVER, TRACKLIST AND RELEASE DATE UNVEILED: The latest addition to "Reborn In Sleaze: A Tribute To Dave Lepard" is Shining Line a supergroup whose self-titled debut album was released in 2010. The line-up who recorded "Back On Trakk" is composed by the founders of the project Pierpaolo "Zorro 11" Monti on drums, Amos Monti on bass, Alessandro Del Vecchio (Edge Of Forever, Eden's Curse, Lionville) on keyboards & backing vocals, Stefano Lionetti (Lionville) on guitar and Josh Zighetti (Hungryheart) on lead & backing vocals. Here's the full tracklist: 1. Knokk 'Em Down Midnite Sun (www.midnitesunband.com) 2. Riot In Everyone Speed Stroke (www.myspace.com/speedstrokeband) 3. Queen Obscene / 69 Shots Skull Daze (www.myspace.com/skulldazeband) 4. Breakin' The Chainz Peep Show (www.myspace.com/peepshowonline) 5. Needle In Your Eye Superhorrorfuck (www.superhorrorfuck.net) 6. Tikket Ragdolls (www.myspace.com/ragdollsvbg) 7. Out Of Line Cyanide 4 (www.myspace.com/cyani4de) 8. It's A Miracle DNR (www.dnrofficial.com) 9. Straight Outta Hell Hell In The Club (www.hellintheclub.com) 10. Back On Trakk Shining Line (www.myspace.com/shiningline) 11. Lost Horizons (bonus track) Blackrain (www.blackrain.fr) "Reborn In Sleaze: A Tribute To Dave Lepard" is due for release on October 1 by Street Symphonies Records and will contain a note in memory of Dave Lepard written by the American journalist Brian Rademacher, editor in chief of RockEyez webzine. WebLink: www.streetsymphonies.com.   LONDON IN TURMOIL: Just a quick note to my many UK readers and especially those in London and other affected cities in Britain - hang tight folks. I'm devastated to watch the scenes of violence and looting and damage to property. The whole world is going nuts. Prayers for calm will reach you soon.

 

 

Monday, August 08, 2011

RE-INTRODUCING FLAMEDOWN & THEIR DEBUT ALBUM: It is with great pleasure I get to plug the release from some good friends of mine - Flamedown. Flamedown is an AOR / Westcoast band formed in 2009 by session musicians Charlie Giardina (formerly of Hardway) - on bass, vocals and programming; Javier Vinas on guitar; and Emiliano Gimenez on drums and percussion. Some of the band's main influences are Toto, Journey, Chicago and Mr. Mister. Flamedown released a four track E.P. back in 2010, featuring renowned guitarist Bruce Gaitsch as a guest musician. The trio has now been signed by Argentinian label Eternal Sunday Records and their debut album is out now. It will also be digitally released via the usual outlets. More information on the band and the album at www.myspace.com/flamedownband or just search for Flamedown on Facebook. Here's a preview of the track 'Voices', from the debut self-titled album: soundcloud.com/eternal_sunday/flamedown-voices.   xx KELLY HANSEN DOES ELVIS IN FOREIGNER'S NEW ACOUSTIC CD AVAILABLE NEXT MONTH: In an all-in-one CD/DVD set available on September 12, Foreigner's front man Kelly Hansen enhances the extraordinary Foreigner catalog with his massive vocals and – via steamy renditions of two Elvis Presley classics – Hansen also masterfully unleashes his own power versions of the King's music in the acoustic CD of Foreigner's new multi-disc package to be released during this, the band's 35th anniversary year. "We started doing acoustic shows in Europe during a promotional tour for "Can't Slow Down" (2010 release) and were surprised by the overwhelming response," says Hansen, who puts an incredible, soulful feel into his rendering of 'That's All Right' and 'The Flame Still Burns.' With Foreigner currently on a wildly successful USA Summer Tour with Journey and Night Ranger, Hansen took a moment to explain how high-energy Foreigner decided to experiment with going acoustic as part of the band's new multi-disc package: "During rehearsals for acoustic shows we experimented with in the US, we would be hanging out and just jamming on different stuff like the Beatles and the Everly brothers, stuff that influenced us early on. So we said, 'why don't we throw some of that in?' at one point," says Hansen, who has been fronting Foreigner since 2005. Regarding why Foreigner expanded outside their classics in the acoustic CD: "We decided to add 'That's All Right Mama' to "Acoustique" because Elvis and his guitarist Scotty Moore were such big influences for Mick especially," said Hansen, who added, "Really enjoyed it!" Foreigner celebrates their thirty-fifth anniversary this year. The Feels Like the First Time package includes a live DVD recorded during two 2011 Chicago shows, a "Juke Box Hero" disc of current band hits, as well as the "Acoustique" disc. The multi-disc set will be available as a Wal-Mart exclusive on September 12 and the audio will be available on iTunes. For more information go to www.foreigneronline.com or to Hansen's website www.kellyhansenrocks.com (coming soon).   TED POLEY ADDS DRUMMER AND NEW MERCH OPPORTUNITIES: Globe-trotting Danger Danger frontman Ted Poley is thrilled to welcome new addition Xenon drummer Tony Capobianco to his current solo band line-up. Long time friends, Poley and Capobianco have musical a history together that spans two decades. The legendary relationship stems back to the days when Poley rocked with Xenon: contributing backing vocals to their debut CD America's New Design, released in 1989. Poley proudly commented, "Tony is one of my all-time favorite drummers. Not only is he a long time friend and NJ homeboy, but I know he will take us to eleven. Xenon is one of the best groups out there. Those guys are like family to me, so I am very excited--and happy--to finally get to do some live work with Tony." The rest of the group is rounded out by Maz Mazza (lead guitar), Paul LaPlaca (keyboards, guitar, background vocals) and Doug Odell (bass, background vocals). Exciting things are happening for Poley. In addition to Capobianco's joining the band, there is a mid-September tour scheduled to take place in Scandinavia. He has also enjoyed a surge of cyber attention on the web. In celebration of his first-ever digital only single, Poley masterminded a music video for his cover of Michelle Branch's song Breathe (ww.youtube.com/watch?v=3ewx665FeOo). Since premiering on You Tube, the story-driven clip has garnered almost 11,000 views within the first month. Recently, Ted has signed on to Magic Brands in order to provide his fans with high quality merchandise. You can view the TP merchandise line by going to: www.magicbrands.com.au. For more on Ted, visit www.tedpoley.com, *like* his Facebook fan page at: www.facebook.com/pages/Ted-Poley/123851607689228 or follow Ted on Twitter at www.twitter.com/tedpoley. MELODIC BRIEFS: Pelle from Grand Design has this update for fans: "Hi there rockers! 2nd Grand Design album is now mixed and mastered! 10 songs - all in the name of 80s rock. To be released in November. More details coming up..." The new fORMER record is about to go to the presses, so the band is making it available for pre-order now, and offering an advance MP3 of the album opener "Head Light" with each CD order. Just go to www.dennysmithmusic.com and head to the "store" section to place your order. As soon as the CDs arrive, you'll be among the first to receive a copy. While at the band's website check out some of the new/old tracks loaded into the audio player this week. Some rare Best Of Seven has been included as well as some new stuff from The Great Affairs. Detroit Splash Magazines Worldwide would like to share an audio interview conducted with Deen Castronovo (Journey drummer) on August 5. www.randyfalsetta.com/#!audio-interviews. Fans can listen to this audio interview as well as Ian Gillan, Ace Frehley and others. Deen speaks of many interesting Journey facts including the circumstances as to Steve Augeri's departure, Arnel Pineda and his views on the music industry today. Ferreira lead singer/guitarist/songwriter Marc Ferreira checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about his brand new release Are You In?; specific tracks like Woman, She's Building a Faire House; Tab of Yesterdays and Out of Love, his brother Alex developing the artwork for the release and what it means; upcoming tour plans; future projects; and a whole lot more. To hear the audio interview, head tohardrockhaven.net/online/2011/marc-ferreira-of-ferreira/. METAL FOR CANCER: Empires of Eden creator and guitarist Stu Marshall is featured on the upcoming track to support cancer research. The track will be available soon. From Stu: "Cancer has touched my family and devastates the lives of thousands. It's a small contribution we can make but something the metal community can get behind." Video is here - www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAK4P8FBLWc. The project is created by Richard Ososki (Ofsoski) and features: Singers: Henrik Flyman (Evil Masquerade): Tony Kakko (Sonata Arctica, Northern Kings): Mats Leven (Therion, Yngwie Malmsteen): Apollo Papathanasio (Evil Masquerade, Firewind, Spiritual Beggars): Snowy Shaw (Therion, Mercyful Fate, Dream Evil): Tony Mills (TNT, Shy): Silvio Masaro (Vanishing Point): Richard Ofsoski (Ofsoski, Sedition). Bass Guitar: Mat Sinner (Primal Fear, Sinner, Voodoo Circle, Rock Meets Classic) Guitars: Henrik Flyman (Evil Masquerade): Stu Marshall (Empires Of Eden, Dungeon ): Glen Drover (Megadeth, Testament, Eidolon). Check out www.empiresofeden.com and find the band on facebook. Metal for Cancer - www.metalforcancer.com.

 

 

Thursday, August 04, 2011

SEBASTIAN BACH'S BRAND NEW VIDEO "KICKING & SCREAMING": Mothertruckers, log on right now to Revolver Magazine's website, www.revolvermag.com, to witness the worldwide premiere of "Kicking & Screaming," the first single/video and title track from Sebastian Bach's forthcoming album of the same name. Exclusively available on www.revolvermag.com now, the brand new video for the title track shows Baz in fine form highlighting his inimitable vocal prowess, as well as the bone-crunching riffs and catchy hooks of the single. Of the new video and single, Bach commented, "I could not be happier with the video for 'Kicking & Screaming.' Director Devin DeHaven did a great job and this video has a lot of energy and power, just like the song. Plus, this video is FUN! Just what rock n' roll is about..." Bach recently appeared at Revolver's Golden God Awards as host of the black carpet, as well as a guest performer/presenter. Check out Revolver's upcoming September/October issue on stands August 16th for a multi-page feature on Sebastian Bach. Sebastian Bach's full-length album, Kicking & Screaming, will be released on September 27th via Frontiers Records in North America and September 23rd in Europe and is produced by Bob Marlette (Black Sabbath, Shinedown, Atreyu, Filter). The recording features young virtuosic guitarist Nick Sterling and drum pro Bobby Jarzombek (Halford, Riot, Iced Earth), as well a guest appearance by noted guitarist John 5 (Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie). Bach and company will take to the road this month with select dates nationwide. Fans can expect Bach classics, as well as a sneak preview of material from the forthcoming album. Sebastian Bach has sold in excess of 20 million records worldwide as lead singer with his former band, Skid Row and as a solo artist. Far from just being a multi-platinum recording artist, the singer/songwriter/actor/entertainer has expanded his career over the past decade to include episodic television with a 5-season recurring role on the CW's hit series "Gilmore Girls", starring roles on Broadway ("Jekyll & Hyde", "The Rocky Horror Picture Show") and national touring companies ("Jesus Chris Superstar"), and has appeared regularly on MTV and VH1. Sebastian Bach on tour: August 23 Asbury Park, NJ Summer Stage At The Stone Pony 24 Wantagh, NY Nikon At Jones Beach Theater 25 Poughkeepsie, NY The Chance 27 Grand Junction, CO RockJam Bach on the web: www.sebastianbach.com / www.facebook.com/sebastianbach / www.twitter.com/sebastianbach / www.reverbnation.com/sebastianbach / www.frontiers.it.

 

 

Friday, August 05, 2011

R.I.P ANDREW 'MAC' MCDERMOTT: R.I.P Andrew 'Mac' McDermott - I hate these kind of updates - we've lost yet another wonderfully talented member of the rock community - singer Andrew "Mac" McDermott (1966-2011). After a long running battle with his health, forcing him to quit his last band (Powerworld), Mac passed away yesterday from kidney failure. He was best known for his work in the progressive metal band Threshold as well as bands Swampfreaks, Powerworld and Sergeant Fury. A condolence page has been set up at: rememberingandrewmacmcdermott.webs.com. This also from his last label SPV Records: "Andrew "Mac" McDermott - A friend is gone! SPV and the whole team are very sad about a big loss. We can't find the right words in this moment. Our friend, brilliant musician and ex-singer of Powerworld, as well as Sargant Fury and Threshold, Andrew "Mac" McDermott passed away on August 3rd in England. He succumb to a kidney failure after being four days in coma. Our sympathy and condolence goes to his family. The world lost a gently, nice, honest and warm-hearted person. We will miss him. Rest in peace Mac, you will be always in our hearts!   XORIGIN - CAN'T KEEP RUNNING (OFFICIAL VIDEO):   LION MUSIC TO RELEASE NEW TITLES 16 SEPTEMBER 2011: Lion Music have announced details of their September releases, due out Sept. 16 in Europe. Gronholm - Silent Out Loud / LM Promo Page: www.lionmusic.com/cd/silentoutloud.htm. September 16th 2011 sees Gronholm release their sophomore album Silent Out Loud on Lion Music. Home to 10 tracks full of infectious vocal melodies over dynamic musical backdrops; Silent Out Loud is an impressive collection of song craft all topped off with a powerful production and mix. Gronholm the band is built around the song writing skills of Mika Gronholm (guitar, bass and keyboards) with vocals once again by Markku Kuikka (Status Minor) and drums from Tom Rask. This core trio of musicians are joined by special guests Billy Sherwood (ex-Yes) and Marco Hietala (Nightwish / Tarot) who add some extra dynamics to backing vocals, and in the case of Sherwood help add his trademark lush Yes style vocal harmony sheen to the likes of Out From The Nest amongst others. Whilst the new offering aside from a greater emphasis on guitar has a sound not too dissimilar to its well-received predecessor Eyewitness Of Life. The new album sees Mika take a heavier approach to his song writing utilising a down tuned B tuning for all stringed instruments. On the change Mika comments, 'All the songs on 'Silent Out Loud' are tuned down to low B. Sometimes B-tuning is used for roaring vocals or lighting fast guitar parts, but no, not this time. With this tuning I was seeking more power and energy to my riffs'. Silent Out Louds first six tracks are all up-tempo numbers where the new tuning is given a fine showing between the heavy packed hard rock riffs with some prog influenced melodies. As the album nears its conclusion we see an instrumental offering in Giant Step which clears the minds palette for the acoustic flavour that is heard on the final 3 tracks with album finale Away also getting an orchestral arrangement. Lyrically Mika Gronholm drew on silent thoughts in his head and once put onto paper in lyric form become out loud, hence the album's title. Writing for the release began in May 2010 and was completed 4 months later. Mikas approach was to 'Simply sit down and record riffs and ideas to an mp3 player and those riffs that maintain attention on repeated plays get worked on into bodies of songs'. Once the tracks had taken shape the recordings took place in January 2011. In contrast to the debut Tom Rasks drums were recorded first this time round and Mika then built the final tracks around the drum work. Markku Kuikka recorded his vocals in his home studio in a short 3 day stint. March 2011 saw the arrival of the guest vocal tracks from Billy Sherwood (chorus parts on Cross and Out From The Nest) and Marco Hietala (lead vocals on Vanity). The band then had to wait until April 2011 for Janne Tolsa to become available to mix and master and the results show the wait was justified. Mika then mixed the last 3 songs at his home studio 'because they were easy and quick to do'. In addition a promotional video for the opening track Cross Of Mind has been shot and made available on YouTube (www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2hkcklnDD4) in the run up to the 'Silent Out Loud' release on 16th September 2011. CD Running Order: 01. Cross Of Mind. 02. Distorted Eyes. 03. Under My Star. 04. Vanity. 05. Out From The Nest. 06. Race Is On. 07. Giant Step. 08. Set The Stones. 09. Dawn Of A Dream. 10. Away. Musicians: Mika Gronholm - Guitars, Basses, Synth, Backing Vocals. Tom Rask - Drums. Markku Kuikka - Lead Vocals. Guest Musicians: Billy Sherwood - Vocals. Marco Hietala - Vocals. Zach Hietala - Guitar solo. Janne Tolsa - Synth solo. Michael Henneken - Backing vocals. Jasse Merivirta - Piano/ Synths. Websites: www.gronholmband.com / www.myspace.com/mikagronholm.   Niels Vejlyt - Sthenic / LM Promo Page: www.lionmusic.com/cd/sthenic.htm Best known as the guitarist and driving force behind metal outfit Infinity Overture, Danish guitar virtuoso Niels Vejlyt is about to make his mark on the guitar instrumental scene with his powerful solo debut Sthenic on 16th September 2011 fully loaded with a bonus DVD! Already no stranger to guitar fanatics worldwide thanks to numerous instructional DVDs, books and his own online guitar school, Sthenic is a long awaited release for Neils Vejlyts legion of fans worldwide and is also sure to attract many newcomers. With a sound reminiscent at times of instrumental offerings from Jeff Loomis, John Petrucci and Steve Vai etc, Sthenic sees Vejlyt serve up 8 tracks that blend intricate heavy riffs with exciting grooves and chord progressions over which Niels formidable lead technique takes the album over the edge! With a strong core backing band of Jakob Vand (Infinity Overture) and bassist Kris Gildenlow (ex Pain Of Salvation), Niels has taken the live approach of a classic 3 piece and worked from that basic premise adding further textures and rhythm guitars to build a strong wall of sound. This live feel to the music manages to bring a direct sound often lacking in overdub city guitar offerings and also make the album more palatable for even the most hardened cynic. Mixed and mastered by the legendary Tommy Hansen (Helloween, Jorn Lande, Circus Maximus) Sthenic boasts a strong and powerful production which further enhances the listening experience and makes this a true scorcher of a release for guitar fans worldwide. CD Running Order: 01. Heads Up (3.23) 02. Die Today (5.12) 03. Rain (4.28) 04. Samurai (4.46) 05. Meteors (4.47) 06. My Little Rascal (4.16) 07. Kajsa (4.19) 08. Winter (9.16). DVD Running Order: 01. Riffs and Chops of Rain. 02. The Licks of Sthenic. 03. Riffs and Chops of Samurai. 04. Niels Veljyt Live 2011. 05. Sound check and Warm-up. Musicians: Niels Vejlyt: Guitars. Kris Gildenlow: Bass. Jakob Vand: Drums. Bernardo Fesch: Bass on Die Today and Winter. Mads Damgaard: Piano on Kajsa. WebLink: www.nielsvejlyt.dk.   Arachnes - A New Day / www.lionmusic.com/digital/arachness_anewday.htm Arachnes are a modern progressive melodic power metal band from Italy based around the talents of the Caruso brothers, vocalist Enzo and guitarist Frank (Strings 24). With four well received albums already under their belts Lion Music are pleased to offer up the digital distribution of their new release 'A New Day'. With a wide ranging set of influences from the likes of Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin, Queen, Toto, Yngwie Malmsteen, ELP, Jethro Tull, Yes, Miles Davis and the classical world greats; this enlightened inspiration helped develop the Arachnes sound which is rich in scope yet with a well-focused core sound. From heavy-roots to modern technologies Arachnes take both power and melody and combine these 2 different sides in order to achieve the biggest impact. Their new release 'A New Day' is testament to this approach and is home to 11 new songs plus a turbo charged cover of the Deep Purple classic 'Fireball'. Arachnes A New Day is available now from all leading digital platforms. Track Listing: 01. I Know the Darkness 02. Big Hearth 03. I'm Sorry 04. Into the Fog 05. Magic World 06. My Face Is Hard 07. Running in an Old Town 08. Take Your Life 09. Parallel Worlds 10. The Reason of the Things 11. Your Death 12. Fireball.   ANDROMEDA HEADLINING GENERATION PROG FESTIVAL 2011: The first Generation Prog Festival in Nürnberg brings together some of the finest modern prog bands from various European countries and local talent from the area for an exciting weekend of progressive music. On September 23 and 24, the Nürnberg club Luise - The Cultfactory is the place to be for prog fans! Swedish prog metallers Andromeda have been confirmed as the headliner band for Saturday, playing an exclusive German gig – their first in five years! Joining them are Subsignal, the latest addition to the festival lineup, founded by former Sieges Even members Arno Menses (vocals) and Markus Steffen (guitars). The band will be performing material from their upcoming new album Touchstones, which will already be on sale at the festival. The international instrumental project Relocator, playing material from one of the most celebrated prog debuts of 2010, and local heroes Theory of Elements complete the Saturday lineup. Friday will see Haken's return to Germany after their triumphant opening set at this year's Night of the Prog. The DPRP-certified 2010 Newcomer of the year will be playing material from their debut Aquarius and their upcoming album Visions, which should be on sale at the festival a month ahead of the official release. Another celebrated newcomer band will be making their German debut at Generation Prog: Exivious, founded by former Cynic members Tymon (guitar) and Robin Zielhorst (bass) with Textures drummer Stef Broks and guitarist Michel Nienhuis. The Friday evening will also feature female-fronted local prog metal talent Effloresce, currently hard at work on their first full-length CD after 2009's Shades of Fate EP, and an opening performance by prog youngsters Ocean Spout. Friday, September 23: Haken, Exivious (feat. former members of Cynic, German debut!), Effloresce, Ocean Spout Saturday, September 24: Andromeda (exclusive German gig!), Subsignal (feat. former members of Sieges Even), Relocator, Theory of Elements. Weekend tickets and affordable hotel package deals are now available exclusively via the festival website: www.generation-prog.com. Single-day tickets will be available at a later date. Generation Prog on the web: www.generation-prog.com / www.facebook.com/GenerationProg (English Facebook page). BRITISH METAL GREATS, SAXON, ANNOUNCE U.S. RELEASE OF 'CALL TO ARMS': One of the leading bands of the 'New Wave of British Heavy Metal' movement, Saxon, is about to hit the U.S. shores hard once more. On September 27th, Saxon will release their 19th studio album overall, 'Call to Arms' (via UDR Music/EMI), and starting the following day, will launch a Stateside tour. And as evidenced by such ass-kickers as "Hammer of the Gods" and "Call to Arms," the group hasn't lost their grip on composing hard-hitting yet anthemic heavy metal with their latest offering. Comprised of members Biff Byford (vocals), Doug Scarratt (guitar), Paul Quinn (guitar), Nibbs Carter (bass), Nigel Glockler (drums), Saxon is responsible for penning some of the 1980's most enduring metal anthems, including "Wheels of Steel," "Strong Arm of the Law," "Motorcycle Man," "Princess of the Night," and "Never Surrender," and along with the likes of Iron Maiden and Def Leppard, helped breath life back into a metal scene that many had left for dead at the time. It's been 35 years since Saxon was originally up and running, and the group can still easily hold their own with the head banging competition. 'It's important to keep one foot in the past and one foot very much in the present,' says Byford. 'At some points in your life, whether you're younger or older, you do have these wonderful periods of 'state of graceness' where everyone likes everything you write. But you can't keep being your own tribute band, you have to try and write great new songs, and you have to try to appeal to a younger audience. Saxon has been successfully doing that for the last decade, and the result is we still have our old fan base but we also have a whole new, younger one too.' Saxon's latest video clip, for the song "Call to Arms," will be premiered this Friday, August 5th at noon EST on America Online Noisecreep. And hardcore Saxon fans will surely be interested in tracking down the "Digipack" version of 'Call to Arms,' as it includes a glorious bonus ­ a free seven-track CD, 'Live at Donington 1980.' Soon, U.S. fans will be able to recapture "The Power and the Glory" of Saxon all over again ­ with the release of 'Call to Arms,' and on a concert stage near you. For more information, visit: www.saxon747.com / saxon.udr-music.com. 'Call To Arms' Track Listing: 01 Hammer of the Gods 02 Back in 79 03 Surviving Against the Odds 04 Mists of Avalon 05 Call To Arms 06 Chasing the Bullet 07 Afterburner 08 When Doomsday Comes (Hybrid Theory) 09 No Rest for the Wicked 10 Ballad of the Working Man 11 Call To Arms ­ orchestral version. DigiPack Bonus Feature: Live At Donington 1980 [Re-mixed and re-mastered from original multitrack tape] 01 Motorcycle Man 02 Still Fit To Boogie 03 Freeway Mad 04 Backs To The Wall 05 Wheels Of Steel 06 Bap Shu Ap 07 747 (Strangers In The Night). Tour Dates: 9-28-11 Key Club, West Hollywood, CA 9-29-11 Last Day Saloon, Santa Rosa, CA 9-30-11 Avalon, Santa Clara, CA 10-1-11 The Boardwalk, Orangevale, CA 10-2-11 Galaxy Theatre, Santa Ana, CA 10-5-11 Club Red, Tempe, AZ 10-7-11 Sunken Gardens, San Antonio, TX 10-8-11 The Arcada Theatre, St. Charles, IL 10-10-11 Foufounes Electriques, Montreal, QC 10-13-11 B.B. Kings, New York, NY 10-14-11 Jaxx, Springfield, VA 10-15-11 Bourbon Street, Baltimore, MD INTRODUCING SOUL SIGN: Soul Sign, consisting of Bjorn Englen (Y. Malmsteen, T. MacAlpine) - bass, Michael Olivieri (Leatherwolf) - vocals, Mike Taylor (R. McAuley) - drums and Rob Math (Player) - guitar, released their long awaited album Life In The Dark on August 3rd via iTunes. A physical release is scheduled for release through Grand Mercy Records on October 1st. The press describes the album as "song oriented, melodic modern and classic rock and metal with heavy grooves and strong, harmonized choruses" while the band simply describes it as "heavy, melodic music that will touch your soul!" Here's the official video of the first single Sign Of Your Soul - www.youtube.com/watch?v=yDph7e_YYMM.   xx MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with more great features: - Dio - Live in Japan 8.10.85 (16 Tracks) - Dio - Civic Centre, Santa Monica, 1983 (7 Tracks) - Driver - Demo (USA 1989)(5 Tracks) And these new video clips: Reckless Love - Hot, LeRoux - Lifeline, Love Might Kill - Pretty Little Mess, Outloud - Waiting For Your Love, Ted Poley - Breathe. MRX Membership Details. REVIEWS UPDATED: A few new Reviews added today: Rob Moratti, Bridger, Reece/Kronlund and Swedish Hitz Goes Metal. Check them out.

 

 

Wednesday, August 03, 2011

ROCK-HORROR ICON ALICE COOPER TEAMS WITH UNIVERSAL STUDIOS: Universal City, CA -- The legendary Alice Cooper, who single-handedly masterminded the rock-horror genre, will spin a new collection of disturbing horror imagery in "Alice Cooper: Welcome To My Nightmare," an outrageous new "Halloween Horror Nights®" maze at Universal Studios Hollywood. The event begins on September 23 and continues on select nights through October 31. Inspired by the rock icon's landmark concept album and its long-awaited sequel Welcome 2 My Nightmare, to be released on September 13 through Universal Music Enterprises, the new attraction will take guests on a terrifying trip through Alice Cooper's twisted mind, where his most famous songs, bizarre themes and demented characters collide inside a living horror movie. This original, one-of-a-kind walk through experience will feature trademark elements from Alice Cooper's celebrated shows, including guillotine decapitations, electric chairs, a sadistic insane asylum, predatory snake and giant Black Widow spiders that have helped make his imagery timeless and indelible. Music will be a powerful element within the maze and will include both new and classic Alice Cooper material. Recently inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Alice Cooper created the concept of the theatrical rock concert and has thrilled generations of fans with spectacular stagecraft and darkly flamboyant showmanship. His recording career spans six decades, includes over two dozen albums, many millions of record sales, countless world tours and appearances in scores of movies and videos, including a brief but memorable appearance in both "Nightmare on Elm Street: Freddy's Dead" and Universal Pictures' "Prince of Darkness." Sharing his enthusiasm, Alice Cooper said: "We'll be creating this living horror movie within screaming distance of the sound stages where horror movies first began, so there's no place more appropriate to offer a preview of the new `Welcome 2 My Nightmare.' This will be a nightmare that will haunt visitors' dreams for a long time to come." John Murdy, Creative Director, "Halloween Horror Nights," added: "There are few people in the entertainment business who can be called a true original. Alice Cooper is in that rare pantheon. As a life-long Alice Cooper fan who's been motivated and inspired by his craft, I am absolutely thrilled by this incredible opportunity to collaborate with him on this new haunted attraction. It's a nightmare come true." Alice Cooper will be a key member of a Hollywood horror "dream team" assembled by Universal Studios Hollywood to create the ultimate "live" Halloween nightmare. The team also includes director, writer, producer and actor Eli Roth, who will present the new maze, "Eli Roth's Hostel: Hunting Season." "The Thing: Assimilation," inspired by Universal Pictures' upcoming thriller, will add to the Hollywood horror clout. "Halloween Horror Nights" 2011 will bring unprecedented star power to an array of unrivaled, film production quality mazes uniquely themed to today's most definitive horror properties and deliver the most compelling, spine-chilling, haunted attractions. All-new terror filled "scare zones," original shows and the popular "Terror Tram" will be among the ""Halloween Horror Nights" offerings. Additional new content for the 2011 "Halloween Horror Nights" mazes and attractions will be announced shortly. The theme park's favorite thrill-ride attractions will also remain open for "Halloween Horror Nights" as well, many with menacing twists. Favorites include "The Simpsons Ride®," "Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride" and "Jurassic Park® In the Dark." Updates on "Halloween Horror Nights" are available at Halloween Horror Nights.com and also on Twitter and Facebook, as Creative Director John Murdy reveals a running chronicle of exclusive information. Fans are invited to follow John Murdy on Twitter at: Twitter.com/HorrorNights or via Facebook at: "Halloween Horror Nights - Hollywood (Official)." NEW FRONTIERS RECORDS MELODIC ROCK FANZINE: Frontiers Records is proud to present the new issue of Melodic Rock Fanzine. The 45th 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 Yes, John Wetton, Airrace, Bai Bang, Episode, Outloud, Edguy, Wolfpack, Toby Hitchcock, XorigN, Work Of Art, Seven... and more! Electronic readble version of the magazine is available on the Frontiers official site and here.   CIRCA: RELEASE NEW CD 'AND SO ON': 8/1/2011 – Los Angeles, CA - Prog fans across the globe are buzzing with excitement about the new CD release by CIRCA: featuring former Yes members Tony Kaye and Billy Sherwood. 'And So On' is the 4th release from the innovative progressive rock ensemble and currently available at the band's official website www.circahq.com. Along with veteran YES rockers Tony Kaye (keyboards) and Billy Sherwood (guitar, vocals), Circa: features Johnny Bruhns on guitar and Ronnie Ciago on drums. 'Although the album was not written as a concept record, the songs are somehow tied together and are all symbiotic,' Billy Sherwood explains,'it's really just an evolution of Circa: music. This is our 3rd Studio release'. The band was formed in 2007 by Tony Kaye and Billy Sherwood. The debut self-titled CD, 'Circa:', also featured Yes drummer Alan White and Jimmy Haun on guitar, with guest appearances by Michael Sherwood and Cole Coleman. The album includes two tracks based on material Billy Sherwood co-wrote with Trevor Rabin in 1995. A two-track download-only EP was previously available for a short period in the United States. The band's debut live show was on August 23, 2007 in San Juan Capistrano, with a set that included an extended instrumental medley of Yes tunes. A DVD of this show was released as 'Circa: Live' in February 2008. A few North American dates followed in early 2008, with Jay Schellen, a previous collaborator of Sherwood's and Kaye's, filling in for White on one date. In July 2008, Jay Schellen permanently replaced Alan White, who chose to focus on his work in Yes. The new line-up recorded an album 'Circa: HQ' in the latter half of 2008, and was released on January 14, 2009. Early 2011 saw a band change, with guitarist Johnny Bruhns replacing Jimmy Haun and Ronnie Ciago replacing Jay Schellen, who wanted to focus on work with Asia Featuring John Payne. Circa's next release 'Overflow' is a collection of extra bonus material from the first and second recording sessions, available only as a digital download via iTunes. And now in 2011, after years of anticipation from fans of the band around the world, the new Circa: CD 'And So On' is available! In support of the new CD release, plans to tour are in the works. 'There are plans to get out there and do shows,' says Billy,'we are heading to Mexico to play Mexicali and Ensenada in September and some Southern California dates to follow... it's early going but we are working hard to get the band on the road.' Stay tuned via Circa's official website for any updates regarding live shows. 'CIRCA: would like to thanks all the fans who have followed us from the start, along the way... and now into the future!' Please visit the online store at www.circahq.com and for Billy Sherwood solo works visit www.billysherwood.com where his forthcoming 5th solo CD titled 'What Was The Question?' is due out August of 2011.   CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: New CD Showcases added today for the 4 Frontiers Records releases due August 26 - Toby Hitchcock, Work Of Art, Xorigin and Jorn (Live). Check them out.

 

 

Tuesday, August 02, 2011

CHRIS ANTBLAD DELIVERS AN AOR ALBUM FOR THE CENTURY: Yesterday's Mystery Artist was none other than Swedish singer/songwriter Chris Antblad, featuring three tracks taken from his long awaited debut solo album Century, available for pre-order now and released officially September 30 via MelodicRock Records/Analogue Baby Studios. After completing preliminary work on his debut solo album some 3 years ago, the time has finally come to unleash Chris Antblad's masterful album Century. Chris was one of the artists originally singed to Angelmilk Records in 2008. Things didn't go to plan at that time, but through an arrangement with Angelmilk's Andy Bramhall and MelodicRock Records, the course was set to transfer the release. The master tracks were mixed and mastered in the UK at JellyJam Studios by Peter Coleman. Unfortunately due to that studio being torn apart to be rebuilt as a much larger complex Analogue Baby Studios, the original wav masters could not be delivered to manufacture the CD with. But we have the next best thing to bring this album to the fans that keep requesting it, with MP3 320kbps masters used. Released via all high-profile Digital Outlets on September 30, the album will also be available as a Limited Edition CD run of just 500 units ($15.00 + $5 shipping/air mail worldwide). Chris Antblad was a big part of the songwriting and vocal talent behind the acclaimed Spin Galley release Standing Tall, which came out on Atenzia Records in 2004. Chris has spent the better part of his adult life as a musician and primarily as a songwriter. A mix of versatility and exceptional lyricism, has led to many interesting collaborations over the years. Primarily, the songwriting has been concentrated on adult oriented rock music and country. Two styles of music that both are reliant on advanced vocal-parts and arrangements. After a few years of songwriting, the necessity for good demos fostered a vocal ability that in later years led to more and more vocal work. Growing up outside the Swedish music scene, there was little to choose from, in terms of vocalists, and necessity once again turned out to be the mother of invention. He was forced to learn the art of singing, and after a couple of uncomfortable years, he found himself a decent singer. Combined with the experience as a session keyboard player, with a lot of jazz under the belt, and decent abilities on guitar and bass, the quality of the work started to reach a professional level.   The songwriting led to Nashville and collaborations with some of his heroes like John Bettis, Gary Baker, Eric Martin, Paul Carrack, Michael Jay, Joe Lynn Turner, John Capek, Randy Goodrum, Jay Graydon, Brett James and Wayne Kirkpatrick. His interest for AOR always lingered as a result of growing up in the 80-ies and has led to a long time collaboration with Joe Lynn Turner and a few noted appearances, one of which was the noted one-off Spin Gallery project. After several years of writing and producing, it is now time for the world to hear Chris Antblad the artist. Says Chris of the upcoming debut solo album: "It will NOT be an encyclopaedia of people that did this with everyone, a thousand times over, but rather my take on the music I love, in a very band oriented context. With the odd surprise in terms of mainly songwriting, that is the basis for all good albums. Maybe a duet, but nothing else...than a great band, the best songs I have right now, and a lot of spirit... My favorite album of all times is Reckless by Bryan Adams, and if I can get half-way there, then I will be pleased... and hopefully you guys will like it. I want to say that I'm doing this for the fans, but it's much too much fun and it's purely an egotistical endeavor...LOL." Andrew McNeice: "I have been waiting forever to get this album out to fans of AOR and melodic rock. The quality of the songwriting and Chris' choice for a more AOR approach had me hooked from the start. He underestimates himself as a vocalist - I think he is superb and a total original. He has one of those voices that just demands your attention." Track Listing and audio soundbytes: 01) A Fire Burning 02) Century 03) Asleep In Your Arms 04) Battlefields 05) Get In The Car 06) When Fools Rush In 07) I Stand Corrected 08) Home For Me 09) I'm Gonna Make You Mine 10) Be Mine 11) Jealous Eyes 12) I'll Keep Holding Onto Love 13) Living On A Lie TOBY HITCHCOCK MAKES VIDEO DEBUT FOR NEW SOLO ALBUM:   JOE LYNN TURNER ENRAGED ABOUT ILLEGALLY RELEASED UNFINISHED DEMOS: Ex-Rainbow and Deep Purple Vocalist Joe Lynn Turner writes "open letter" to fans and the media: Dear Fans and Media Friends, "I am aware of a compilation of unfinished demo songs that was published on the Internet by an individual named Scott Rolaf. These demos were recorded in my studio about two years ago. While there was discussion of releasing some of them as part of an album for a special project, I was not happy with the way the collaboration was progressing on all levels...artistically, musically and in how it was prematurely presented online. This is why I stopped having contact with Scott Rolaf. We were at odds, however, he continued to pretend on the social media sites that we were still friends and that this project was moving forward. This was an outright lie." "I never had confirmed plans for this album to be released but Rolaf took it upon himself to publish a website and other social media sites (i.e. Reverbnation, etc.) without getting prior approval from me. This misled my fans, members of my street team and several reputable media outlets. I have since severed my professional and personal relationship with Scott Rolaf permanently." "Scott Rolaf's recent posting of these demos for free download in the form of an "album" is unethical. I have taken legal action to protect my artistic/intellectual property and reputation. On July 21, 2011, Rolaf was served a Cease and Desist by my lawyers. Sometime around July 29, 2011, he had the audacity to post free files of these demos along with a "new" press release which he wrote. These actions are, in my opinion, nothing more than an attempt by Scott Rolaf to gain fame on my name!" "I admit that I made the mistake of trusting Rolaf with some unfinished songwriting demos...simple ideas, incomplete performances, music, vocals, production, etc. He betrayed that trust by releasing these songs without legal or personal confirmation. This is an unscrupulous, immoral act, and, by the laws that protect artistic/intellectual property, it is criminal!" "It is individuals who take actions, like Rolaf did who hurt and destroy the hopes and chances of thousands of honest and talented artists who want and need a helping hand to climb the ladder of success! This action is a pathetic example to the true creative people who love to write and perform music. What a stain on the heart of honest art!" "My loyal friends and fans know of the high quality of work I have delivered throughout my career. To think that Scott Rolaf, to whom I extended my hand in friendship as well as professional trust, has betrayed me by releasing unfinished/unapproved works, is an outrage! My only hope is that you can understand this situation and realize that this is a sad event that can happen to anybody...anywhere ...regardless of position and status. Don't let it happen to you." Sincerely, Joe Lynn Turner. PS: Please feel free to check out a portion of an interview I did with journalist James Gaden in February 2011. I have pasted this portion of the interview below: Interview Segment with Journalist James Gaden - The following segments were transcribed from a conversation that journalist James Gaden had with me (Joe Lynn Turner) on the 24th of February 2011. It was taken out of what became the article that was published in Fireworks Issue 45. JAMES: *I'm also intrigued to hear the album you've done with Scott Rolaf, because again, the snippets I've heard online sounded good.* JLT: Well, look... alright, I've got to tell you the skinny on that right now. It's on hold. I've got some personal problems with Rolaf... I never agreed to the Rolaf/Turner name. I never agreed to have any of the clips on Facebook or wherever the F**K they were. Everything has been taken down for now. The songs are still there, but we've had some problems between us. He's the kind of guy - maybe you have someone in your life like this, they just go off and they do what they want. All of a sudden, you go 'Hey, I'm supposed to be your partner!' I'm over in Europe somewhere, I come back and there's bits and pieces of this thing all over the place. That is not the way to market something. I don't mind him leaking a few things here and there, but those were demos. You should hear these things now, we've got real drums, real bass, we've been tearing down the fluff and making it real. It's so much better. So I don't want to totally abandon "the songs" but I'm not Rolaf/Turner. I never agreed to that. This guy is a wannabe star, he's putting his name first - this isn't Hughes/Turner, this is not comparable. I was incised at that. JAMES: *I can understand that. It was your name that drew my interest to the project anyway. I'd probably have completely ignored it if you hadn't been attached to it. * JLT: He's riding on my back isn't he? We were supposed to be getting a big marketing company, hitting the internet, setting up all the right things, putting out ads... that's correct, that's the way to do it. Then Scott starts releasing stuff everywhere and we were like 'Hey, you're giving away the game!' I don't mind a snippet here and there but it became ridiculous. That, and the name he came up with, he did that himself and he was looking to press CD's and put out the demos from the computer without real drums, the tracks were murky and awful... I said hey, I don't do that standard. It's a low standard for me. If my name is going on it, I've gotta have it right. Anyway, we had a big f**king argument and he called me all kinds of names and I was ready to punch him out, I swear I was. So I said 'Alright, I'm done with your ass. You're an egotist - you're arrogant and it's not even earned.' I said 'You've done nothing, and if I open my hand and release you, you'll go back into obscurity where you belong'. I said 'Just because you have a bit of talent to write a fair song... please, I've written hundreds of great songs. Have the common decency, respect and consideration for a partnership.' If you don't have that, you have nothing. So that's it, you have the full story there in a nutshell. Right now, it's on hold. The songs are there, lots of good songs, but I also got a whole album of songs with a guy in Sweden that will just blow your mind. I don't mean heavy rock stuff, it's in a much more commercial, radio orientated way. It's got writing from guys like Gary Baker from Nashville, guys who wrote for Backstreet Boys, it's just a set of brilliant songs. We're finishing up the drums now and stuff - the only thing I'm worried about is the vocals, they're demo vocals. I was reading the lyrics, really just mapping out the songs, but the recordings sound so good! I don't know whether I need to go and put some excitement in there... I don't know, I feel I've got so much more ability vocally than what is on there, but people who've heard them are just saying it's a great other side of me. I digress, but I'm just saying I don't need this. Working with a guy who has come out of obscurity, all the while I was under the impression he'd follow my lead because I'm the experienced one, but I found out that apparently he was the important one, he was the rock star, and I'm just a tool to sing the songs. So I said 'Oh really? F**k you'. It's tough, on one side he's actually quite a nice guy, but on the other side, he can be a f**king asshole! Not unlike everyone else. (laughs). Note: Due to this development, the associated news item from yesterday has been removed. DOOGIE WHITE SOLO ALBUM FINALLY FINDS A HOME: Metal Mind Productions is proud to announce the release of Doogie White's solo album - As Yet Untitled. This Scottish vocalist came to the attention of the worldwide audience when Ritchie Blackmore asked him to be the lead singer in his reformed Rainbow. They recorded one album together - Stranger in Us All. Doogie would go on to sing with Swedish neo-classical guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen for over a six and a half year period, record two albums and tour the world. He also recorded four albums and toured with Cornerstone and is currently the lead singer of Tank, who embark on selected European dates starting this August. Doogie White will release his first solo album through Metal Mind Productions in October. The album called As Yet Untitled is a collection of 10 dramatic and hard hitting rock songs co-written by White and some good friends he has made over the years on the rock scene. White says, "I always thought my first solo album should be called this. The journalists at Sounds and Kerrang! always had a line that so and so are in the studio recording an album, as yet untitled… Well now I have actually done that. I always like to be part of a band but I found myself isolated for a short while and decided to record some of the songs that I had been working on, while either on the road or back at home. I won't sit around and wait for the phone to ring. A bored Doogie is a dangerous thing! I gathered the good and the great, companions who had travelled the world with me at various times. Friends who I knew were outstanding players and to a man and one beautiful woman they gave freely of their talents and time. I am forever in their debt." The list of guest musicians involved in the recording of As Yet Untitled looks impressive: Patrick Johansson (Yngwie), Thomas Broman (Glenn Hughes) – Drums, Derek Sherinian (Black Country Communion), Tony Carey (Rainbow) – Bass, Neil Murray (Whitesnake), Greg Smith (Ted Nugent), Paul Logue (Eden's Curse) - Keyboards, Pontus Norgren (Hammerfall), Marcus Jidell (Royal Hunt), Phil Hilborne (Queen Musical), Mick Tucker (Tank) - Guitars, Patti Russo (Meatloaf, Cher) - Guest vocals. The album was recorded at various studios in Florida, Germany, and Scotland but most of the production was handled in Sweden with Pontus Norgren (Hammerfall) at the helm. White: "Pontus and I became great friends through our time with Yngwie. He shone a bright light on the songs with his production. He brought a certain calmness to the madness and made sure that everything that was in the song had to be there for a reason. Even when the hard drive with the initial mixes was stolen, I knew that Pontus could sort it out." Metal Mind Productions set the release date for October 24 in Europe and November 7 in USA (via MVD). WebLinks: www.metalmind.com.pl / www.myspace.com/metalmindproductions.   JOURNEY CONTINUE BELIEVIN' ON USA 'TODAY SHOW': Journey flew into New York City early Friday morning, directly after their concert Thursday night in St. Paul, Minnesota, taking a 24-hour break from their current Eclipse Tour, to perform on NBC's Today as part of the top-rated morning show's 2011 Friday Toyota Concert Series. The band opened their set with Don't Stop Believin' and then performed City of Hope from their latest album, Eclipse, released in May at Wal-Mart and all the usual digital retailers. Next up was Faithfully, which won the online "Viewer's Choice" song contest, and wrapped up with Any Way You Want It. Today Senior Producer, Melissa Lonner, surprised the band by having host Matt Lauer presenting the band with a very special award. "Well there is a momentous occasion about to take place because the Nielsen Company's SoundScan Division has just certified that 'Don't Stop Believin' is the number one single from the 20th century," said Matt Lauer. "We have plaque here that actually commemorates that." Although originally released in 1981, Don't Stop Believin' has had resurgence that began when it turned up in final episode of The Sopranos in 2007, boosting digital sales of the download to become the best-selling catalog song at the time. But it was Glee's version that propelled both it AND the original version into the top 10 in the UK early this year. In the U.S., sales of Don't Stop Believin' once again boosted while the 'Glee' version is the hit series' best-selling track, with sales of nearly 1.1 million. 30 years later, more than 4.6 million downloads of the original song have been sold making Don't Stop Believin' the most downloaded song from the 20th Century. Video of the entire concert performance – and the special Nielsen SoundScan award presentation – can be seen at: today.msnbc.msn.com/id/3041478/. The "Eclipse Tour" - with special guests Foreigner and Night Ranger – resumed on Saturday night in Tinley Park, Illinois at the Midwest Bank Amphitheatre. For more information, visit www.Journeymusic.com. Photo credits: Kevin Mazur, Wireimage.   xxxx In related news, this just in: "Rewind 94.9 Cincinnati will be doing a live simulcast of the Foreigner / Journey show in Cincinnati, OH this Wednesday August 3. I'm told this is a last minute deal as they only secured rights to do just those 2 bands - it does NOT include Night Ranger. Link: www.rewind949.com/blog/story/20110727/rewind-94.9-is-broadcasting-the-journey-concert-live. DREAM THEATER ANNOUNCE SPECIAL VERSIONS OF A DRAMATIC TURN OF EVENTS: New York, NY: Dream Theater, who were recently voted one of the top 10 Prog Rock bands of all time by RollingStone.com readers, will return with A Dramatic Turn of Events, on September 13th. The band is armed with one of the most powerful efforts of their storied, iconic career. The album marks the recorded debut of new drummer Mike Mangini, which fans are clamoring to hear. Roadrunner Records will issue the release in multiple versions that will be sure to delight the band's disciple-like fanbase. In addition to the standard version, a special edition CD/DVD set will include The Spirit Carries On – a 60-minute movie documenting Dream Theater's much-discussed drummer auditions; a double LP Set in gatefold jacket; and a Limited Deluxe Collector's Edition Box Set. The A Dramatic Turn of Events Deluxe Collector's Edition Box Set includes the A Dramatic Turn of Events album; instrumentals of the entire album; the DVD of The Spirit Carries On; a double-LP Set of A Dramatic Turn of Events (180-Gram Vinyl in Gatefold Jacket); Dream Theater branded custom turntable slipmat; and a litho print of album. Also, 50 lucky winners will find a Dream Theater 'Ticket For Life,' which is randomly inserted into packaging. All the content will be housed in a custom box and those who purchase will receive a digital download of the album the day prior to release. "It's a really cool collection dedicated to the art and music of our forthcoming release, along with a few awesome goodies," guitarist John Petrucci said. Dream Theater are also planning to embark on a massive world tour, where they will play selections from A Dramatic Turn of Events, as well as classic, staples and fan favorites. Labelmates Trivium will appear on many dates, supporting their new album In Waves. "We are all very pumped about the release of A Dramatic Turn of Events this September, as well as the world tour we'll embark upon in support of the album," said Petrucci. "Our first leg will bring us throughout North America where we'll showcase songs from the new album along with tons of fan favorites and a brand new tour production unlike any other that we've done before. We're equally excited to have our friends in Trivium join us. It's sure to be an incredible tour. We're looking forward to seeing all of our friends on the road this Fall!" For more information on ticketing, tour dates and on-sales, please go here. The track listing for A Dramatic Turn of Events is as follows; please note that the title of track five has changed from the previously announced version. 1. On The Backs of Angels 2. Build Me Up, Break Me Down 3. Lost Not Forgotten 4. This Is the Life 5. Bridges In the Sky 6. Outcry 7. Far From Heaven 8. Breaking All Illusions 9. Beneath the Surface. GEOFF DOWNES ON YES' MEMBER CHANGES: "THAT'S JUST THE WAY IT IS.": Yes keyboardist Geoff Downes has had an interesting roller coaster ride with the band. He first joined in 1980 for an album titled Drama, on which he and Trevor Horn replaced departing members Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman. After a 30-year absence Downes re-joined Yes for its new album Fly From Here, the group's first new recording in a decade and the first to feature vocalist Benoit David in Anderson's place. In a new interview with Examiner.com, Downes talked about the many changes Yes has been through in its four-decade history. "The latest release, Fly From Here, I think in many ways has gone quite a long way toward re-building the band in the fans' eyes, and showing them that we're ready to accept new challenges and take on new directions," the veteran musician said. "I think Benoit, this being his first album with the band, I think that has cemented him in the position of lead vocalist, and I can't imagine that anyone at this stage would want to change that." Still, Downes acknowledged that change is inevitable in a long career. "Yes does go through changes. That's just the way it is," he observed. "I think that Yes' music is kind of on its own out there, and it goes through different chapters, and that involves different people. I don't think it's a case of, any year is better than any other. They can all co-exist quite comfortably." Yes is currently on tour with arena rockers Styx.

 

 

Monday, August 01, 2011

ANOTHER AOR CLASSIC ON ITS WAY: Mystery Track time - three songs samples for you to preview with details of this upcoming release to be published here tomorrow! I hope you enjoy. These songs come from one of the best pure AOR albums of 2011, mixing the classic sound of the genre with modern and contemporary production! Download: Sample 1 / Sample 2 / Sample 3. JADED HEART BURST INTO ACTION: Jaded Heart are back in the studio for a brand new album due early 2012. The band via bassist Michael Muller has been cool enough to send out an advance preview of the album with this demo for you guys to download right now! Download: Jaded Heart - Burst Into Tears.   CHICKENFOOT PUT THEIR BEST FOOT FORWARD: Hear the brand new Chickenfoot single Big Foot streaming now from the band's website: www.chickenfoot.us/?flush=1.   ONI LOGAN QUITS LYNCH MOB: Without warning, singer Oni Logan has left Lynch Mob, the very day their US tour was to commence. A statement from the band reads: "Oni let the band and our fans down. He quit the band at 5:30 am before our 7:30 am scheduled flight. He left us high and dry and did not fulfill his commitment. We are saddened and disappointed - but as a band, we are committed to honoring our obligations." Vocalist Chaz West (Bonham) will fly in to replace Logan for the rest of the tour, but not for the first two shows. For those Christopher C Romero was the man. He commented earlier: "With just a few hours' notice George Lynch flew Romero vocalist Christopher C Romero from Denver to Houston, TX to fill in on the first 2 dates of the tour. Bonham vocalist Chas West will handle vocal duties for the remainder of the dates. Romero will open for Mr Big in Denver, Co on August 9 th at the Summit Music Hall." Oni Logan has been contacted for comment, but as of now has yet to reply. INTRODUCING CHASING MAGIC - DUE VIA KIVEL RECORDS: Coming up from Kivel Records: "Chasing Magic hails from the Midwest of the good ol USA, where they deliver their own special blend of Melodic Rock. The band's self-titled debut CD is due August 16th, 2011 via Kivel Records. What the band offers is a set of tunes that will showcase soaring anthemic choruses, melodic guitar work, and hooks upon hooks. This is a band that is unapologetic for the style they play and wear their influences on their sleeve. With a sound reminiscent of such bands as Night Ranger, Winger, and Giant. Although a new band to the scene, Chasing Magic's frontman is not completely an unknown. Since 2007 Jason Pawlak has helped pen and contribute tunes for some of his fellow contemporaries: musical acts such as Goodbye Thrill, Tango Down and Farcry. Now it is time for Jace to show he can command a band and album of his own and not just be a behind the scenes guy. This album was a labor of love for Jace, and has been a long time coming. On it you will hear his unique blend of vocal melodies and guitar work that will leave you wanting more by the end of the album. Rob Evans - Powerplay Magazine: "Jason Pawlak is one of the most underrated singer/songwriters in the world of AOR at this current moment." Anyone that has been in a band will express how being in a band is sometimes like a family, well Chasing Magic is just that! Jace is joined by Dennis Pawlak (guitars, bass, vocals) and Trevor Pawlak (guitars, vocals), making this power trio. Not just a band playing music, but a family that is Chasing Magic!!! So pop in the album, close your eyes, turn up the volume and Enjoy!" Chasing Magic is due August 16th. Pre-order your copy now @ www.kivelrecords.com. Preview a track from the album right now... Download: Chasing Magic - World Is Wide. FOREIGNER OFFER ANOTHER NEW PACKAGE THROUGH WAL-MART: From Billboard.com: "Foreigner is celebrating the 35th anniversary of the band's formation by going acoustic, electric and live -- all on the same package. "Feels Like the First Time" is a CD/DVD package that will be released by Razor & Tie exclusively via Wal-Mart on Sept. 13, while the audio components will also be available on iTunes. The set comprises a pair of CDs -- "Acoustique: The Classics Unplugged" and "Juke Box Heroes: Brand New Digital Recordings of Foreigner's Greatest Hits," along with the DVD "Live in Chicago," which was filmed in March during two shows at the Arcada Theatre in St. Charles, Ill., and will also be shown during PBS' pledge drive this fall. "This is an extra rubber stamp on our claim to this (catalog)," Kelly Hansen, who's been Foreigner's frontman since 2005, tells Billboard.com. "You are constantly having to re-establish yourself. There was a time in the late 90s when the band suffered in reputation, and I think we've spent a good part of the last six years going all over the world to re-establish that this band is very strong and relevant and full of great songs." Hansen says he and the rest of Foreigner are particularly excited about the "Acoustique" disc, which features unplugged renditions of "Feels Like the First Time," "Waiting For a Girl Like You," "Cold as Ice" and other Foreigner favorites, plus a cover of the Arthur Crudup/Elvis Presley classic "That's All Right" and the first-ever Foreigner recording of "The Flame Still Burns," a song guitarist and founder Mick Jones wrote for the fictional band Strange Fruit to perform in the 1998 film "Still Crazy". [note - Classic Movie!] Hansen says the acoustic sessions, which were recorded at the Hit Factory in New York, grew from a German radio tour the band did during 2010. "We were doing these live acoustic shows that were being broadcast," he recalls, "and we got a huge response. It was kind of shocking and surprising, and also something that was really new for us. We've never really done that, kind of laying yourself out naked, without lights and amps or anything. It was a real different feeling and a challenge, so we came back and decided to experiment." The group played some additional acoustic shows in the U.S. and Canada, and Hansen says is considering more of those to help promote "Feels LIke the First Time." "We're still working out the details for that, but it should be interesting," he notes. The 12-song "Juke Box Heroes" disc, meanwhile, features a new song called "Save Me" as well as the re-recorded hits. "We started doing that quite awhile ago with the intention of using those tracks for licensing," Hansen says. "When fans caught wind that those things were in progress, they let us know they wanted a piece of it, so we decided to put them out." Foreigner is currently on the road with Journey and Night Ranger, a package that wraps up on Oct. 21 in Seattle. Hansen says the group also hopes to record a follow-up to 2009's "Can't Slow Down," the first original album by this incarnation of Foreigner, but so far "we haven't started talking about that yet. We just got done with ('Feels Like the First Time') and we're on this tour, but we'll get there." The track listings for the component parts of Foreigner's "Feels Like the First Time" package include: "Acoustique: The Classics Unplugged": Long, Long Way From Home; Cold As Ice; The Flame Still Burns; Double Vision; Fool For You Anyway; Say You Will; Starrider; Waiting For A Girl Like You; Feels Like The First Time; Juke Box Hero; That's All Right. "Juke Box Heroes": Brand New Digital Recordings of Foreigner's Greatest Hits: Save Me; Feels Like The First Time; Cold As Ice; Long, Long Way From Home; Hot Blooded; Double Vision; Head Games; Dirty White Boy; Urgent; Waiting For A Girl Like You; I Want To Know What Love Is; Juke Box Hero. "Live in Chicago (DVD)": Double Vision; Head Games; Cold As Ice; Waiting For A Girl Like You; When It Comes To Love; Blue Morning, Blue Day; Dirty White Boy; Starrider; Feels Like The First Time; Urgent; I Want To Know What Love Is; Hot Blooded; Juke Box Hero. WebLink: www.billboard.com/#/news/foreigner-turns-35-for-the-first-time-with-1005297872.story.   FIREHOUSE LIVE IN MA, USA: For people in the New England Area that want to end their summer with a Bang! Fri August 12th Live at Maximum Capacity, Firehouse! The music will be loud. The Hits will be played and the smiles will be on faces. So come see one of the best bands of the hard rock genre perform their hits, spanning their 20 year career! Reach For the Sky, When I Look Into Your Eyes, Don't Treat Me Bad , and the Monster Ballad....Love Of a Lifetime! If you enjoy good music accompanied by a night of fun. Then come out for this only Western MA area appearance. This is a show not to be missed. Tixs are $20 advance and $25 at the door. Don't be the guy that heard it what a great show they missed. Be the guy that tells people what a Great show it WAS! Maximum Capacity 116 School St, Chicopee, MA 01013. Phone: 413-592-0719.   PRESS RELEASE: ONLINE STORE, SHATTERED SILENCE AND 80'S TRIBUTE BAND: It has been a busy year for Atlanta born singer/songwriter Marc Bryant. At the beginning of 2011, he re-released his acoustic EP, San Carlos Park, through his online music store at Reverbnation. The collection includes the original release plus 3 bonus tracks: Saving Grace (Electric Version), Last Goodbye (Previously Unreleased) and Road (Remastered.) Download your copy at: www.reverbnation.com/store/index/artist_788304. While continuing to work on pre-production for his 2nd album (the follow-up to his 2003 solo debut, Naked Son), Marc has teamed up with his old bandmates Chris Banks (Guitar), Lee Banks (Bass) and Chad Wedlake (Drums) to re-form the band, Shattered Silence. "Chad and I have been wanting to put this together for years. Basically, we're re-recording the songs from that high school time period and updating the sound with the maturity as musicians we've developed over our adult lives. The maturity as people has pretty much stayed the same as high school!", the vocalist jokes. Falling somewhere between bands such as Lynch Mob, Whitesnake, Winger and Ozzy Osbourne, it's going to be melodic hard rock at it's finest with track titles including Desire, Little Dreamer, Misled and Lonely Nights. Check out the song, Heart Of Stone, on their Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/pages/Shattered-Silence/118801918178074. And if all of that wasn't enough, Marc has put together an 80's tribute band in the Southwest Florida area called The M-80's. "We just played our first two gigs this past July and are having a blast. We try to keep a good balance between the hair metal, classic rock and pop tunes of the era which has equated to an overall great show. We've been getting some props from the local radio stations here and are looking forward to hitting some more venues in the area! It's a rockin' 80's party, people!" Check out the band at www.m80srockband.com and follow them on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/pages/The-M-80s-Floridas-Ultimate-80s-Tribute-Band/119829178092574.   xx ONE OF THOSE SWEET LINE-UPS ISSUES A NEW SINGLE: 70's rockers SWEET (Andy Scott's band) will be issuing their first single in 9 years in August, titled Join Together (a cover of The Who). The single will be available on iTunes etc. The song premiered on German national TV, ZDF channel, on July 17. Among other bands was Blackmore's Night: www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOLuKlJ_aVg. Sweet line up is: Andy Scott, guitar (Sweet); Bruce Bisland, drums (ex-Praying Mantis, Wildfire, Statetrooper); Pete Lincoln, vocals/bass (ex- Sailor, Tina Turner, Cliff Richard); Steve Grant, guitar/keys (ex- Alan Price, Alvin Lee, Eric Burden and many more).

 

 

Friday, July 29, 2011

VOCAL LEGENDS BOBBY KIMBALL AND JIMI JAMISON TEAM UP FOR FORTHCOMING ALBUM DUE IN OCTOBER: "Hold the Line", "White Sister", "English Eyes", "Goodbye Elenore", "Rosanna", "Is This Love", "Burning Heart", "The Search Is Over", "High on You", "I Can't Hold Back"... These songs from Toto and Survivor are true musical evergreens and are still played on radio stations all over the world. Each band has sold millions of records, respectively and have created a legendary melodic rock sound. The soaring vocals that kept these melodies in so many fan's minds come from two amazing singers: Bobby Kimball (Toto) and Jimi Jamison (Survivor). For the first time in their career, Bobby and Jimi have joined forces together for a "duets" album, which will see the light of day on Frontiers Records on October 14 in Europe and October 18 in North America. "We always talked of doing something like this, musically we like the same stuff and we've been in the same kind of bands and when the opportunity arose we jumped on it" said Jimi Jamison. "I've always wanted to do a CD with Jimi because he is one of my best friends, we work well together and we have fun together" added Bobby Kimball. The album features Kimball and Jamison's signature vocal styles in a familiar musical environment created for them by such esteemed songwriters as Richard Page (Mr. Mister), Jim Peterik (Survivor), Randy Goodrum (Steve Perry, Toto), John Waite, Erik Martensson (W.E.T.) and Robert Sall (Work of Art), among others, and directed by the expert hands of German producer Mat Sinner (Primal Fear, Sinner, Kiske Somerville). While not exactly a "supergroup", the Kimball-Jamison alliance is not just a one-off studio project, as the main motivation behind this album is an ongoing collaboration between the two singers who have been singing live together with the "Legends of Rock" and the "Voices of Classic Rock", both ensembles featuring singers and musicians from very popular classic rock groups. "Kimball Jamison" is a labour of love & friendship and is set to become a true classic among melodic rock fans. The "Kimball Jamison" album will include the following songs: Worth Fighting For; Can't Wait For Love; Sail Away; Chasing Euphoria; Find Another Way; Get Back In The Game; I Did Everything Wrong; Shadows Of Love; Hearts Beat Again; We Gotta Believe; Kicking And Screaming; Your Photograph. The album will be released exclusively in a glossy DigiPack edition featuring a bonus DVD which includes: The Making of the Album (approx. 30 mins. documentary); Worth Fighting For (videoclip); Can't Wait for Love (videoclip). Enjoy the album EPK on: www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-mJZ7mmYE0.   xx ARE YOU READY FOR SWEDISH HITZ GOING METAL?: Press Release (proceed with caution!) / "Is it possible for an upcoming guitar hero to be raised in Boden, Sweden? Already praised in Japan with ReinXeed & Golden Resurrection, wanted by heavy metal and guitar magazines and above all equipped with all the attributes belonging to a true guitar hero. We present Tommy ReinXeed, a 23-year old guy from Boden, with a true musical talent and dedication - far higher than the usual. ""Well, my musical interest started really early. I think it was dad that brought home an album and I heard "Out in the fields" with Gary Moore and Phil Lynott, I believe I was 9 at the time...The awesome guitar lines and the vocals - what an incredible feeling!" Tommy immediately chose the guitar as his instrument and started to practice. His first band, Guranerna, he started at the age of 13. They did some shows, close to home and their material was mainly covers from artists like: Hammerfall, Gary Moore and Stratovarius. Some of their own material was also presented. But ReinXeed became the 'real' start for Tommy's musical career. The band has, until now, released four successful albums. Signed by Doolittle Group in Sweden, licensed by King Records in Japan, this band has an great following - in Sweden, of course, but also in India, Japan, Indonesia, Holland and USA. The project: Swedish Hitz Goes Metal happened when Christian Liljegren, label manager for Doolittle but also artist (Narnia, Golden Resurrection & DivineFire,) stumbled across one of Tommy's interpretations of Abba on YouTube. He called Tommy up, explained the concept and there was an instant 'go' for the project. Soon enough the album was done, containing songs from Roxette, Abba and Ace of Base. "I thought it was about time to hear the songs in the way they should have sounded from the beginning", Tommy says with a grin. Of course it is said with alot of love towards the music, he explains "In fact, this is a 'labour of love' project, rather than a career-jump. – It doesn't sound like the other things I do, but the songs are really great and I have had so much fun recording this album." During 2011/2012 Tommy will travel with a 5-piece band performing the album live all around the world. Two promotional videos are from the album available on YouTube 1st single Money Money Money originally written by Abba & Roxette's - The Look that has caught a lot of attention all round the world. This is the perfect party album of 2011 and it is called Swedish Hitz Goes Metal!" Album release: August 25/ Label: Doolittle Group AB. Track Listing: 01. Mamma Mia 03:51 02. The Look 03:48 03. Money Money Money 03:14 04. The Sign 03:30 05. Summer Night City 04:11 06. All That She Wants 03:12 07. Super Trouper 03:23 08. Joyride 03:18 09. Intermezzo No.1 0 3:45 10. Sleeping In My Car 04:48 11. The Winner Takes It All 02:55 12. Beautiful Life 03:14 13. Lay All Your Love On Me 04:24 14. Listen To Your Heart 04:01.   JOE ELLIOTT THANKS FANS AFTER FATHER'S DEATH: Def Leppard frontman Joe Elliott has spoken for the first time about the passing of his father earlier this month. As the Def Leppard tour resumed this week, Joe posted this on the Def Leppard website: "By now most of you will know that my Father passed away after a long illness, on July 7th, aged 81. This is why some of our shows have been rescheduled, & quite frankly, why I might have been "off my game" recently, & for that I can only apologise. Going into the rehearsals & tour, even with a sick Father's blessing, is a lot harder than I imagined it to be, & through all the jokes & smiles during interviews & indeed up on stage, there's an inherent sadness & worry you just can't shake ... and as we like to say, you can't unscramble an egg, .... it IS hard to deal with, but you all know, we are the kings of getting on with it, so we shall prevail, .... which brings me back to the title of this piece .... Last night was the first show back after the enforced break, the first show I've ever done without a Father, & can I say to the good people of Cincinnati Ohio, THANK YOU FOR MAKING IT THAT LITTLE BIT EASIER TO DEAL WITH BY BEEING "SO" GOOD !!! ... I'll admit, I ran out of gas last night, by Photograph I had nothing left to give ... it WAS emotional, yes, but it was over 100 degrees on stage too, which didn't help either, but you guys carried me over the last part of the show on a wave of goodwill that I will never forget!! I had to get the first show, wherever it might have been, out of the way, to help me move on as it were, & after experiencing a reception like we did last night I wouldn't have wanted it anywhere else !!! .... I hope the rest of the shows are as good, and I'm sure they will be, but for now, last night emotionally at least has helped my through the hardest few weeks of my life, & I thank you all for that. Also, I thank everyone who has sent condolence messages to my Mum and me, mainly through the Planet Rock account, way too many to reply to, so please take this as a great big THANK YOU !! ... my old man would be well proud !!! ... as he was when I photographed him sat on Rick's Kit at the Don Valley Stadium gig back in 1993, the photograph below is something I thought I'd like to share with you all..... Once again, thank you all so very much for your support over these last few very difficult weeks ... Love & peace, Joe Elliott. WebLink & Picture: www.defleppard.com/news/2011/07/28/thank-you-cincinnati-joe-elliott. YESTERROCK ANNOUNCE LATEST PLANNED RE-ISSUES: Munich based AOR/Melodic Rock label Yesterrock (www.yesterrock.com) will release the next bunch of re-issues of rare records from the melodic rock genre through the next couple of weeks. Details are as follows: Worrall – s/t / Release date: 29.07.2011 The Canadian AOR band Worrall was the brainchild of brothers Rick and Steve Worrall. The recording of the CD Worrall was an amazing experience for Rick and Steve. Working with Jim Gaines, who also has produced, Steve Miller Band, Santana, Huey Lewis and Stevie Ray Vaughan, would have been great in itself, but recording in Memphis brought a whole different magical dimension to the project. The studio was owned by Gary Belz and Joe Walsh of the Eagles. The self-titled album 'Worrall' hit the stores via A&M label in 1991. The single 'In The Heat Of The Night' became an top 30 Hit. The CD received extensive airplay and international attention, with great reviews in industry magazines such as Kerrang and Metal Hammer. The band 'Worrall' successfully toured Europe and North America until 1993. At which time, Rick Worrall returned to his solo career which he still is working on today. Today, the album 'Worrall' is a sought after collector's item. Yesterrock are now re-releasing this AOR gem. The re-issue is re-mastered, includes a bonus video clip of the track "Heat Of The Night" as well as liner notes by Rick Worrall. Line-Up: Rick Worrall (Vocals, Keyboards), Steve Worrall (Guitars), Chris Brockway (Bass), Angelo Earle, Sean Lane (Guitar), 'Bic Mac' (Drums), Jimi Jamison (Backing vocals). Tracklist: 01. Best Is Still To Come, 02. Shadow Of A Lie, 03. You Know, 04. Summertime Radio, 05. Catch Me, 06. Take A Look Around, 07. Heat Of The Night, 08. I Can't Stop, 09. Hard Times, 10. Suspicious Heart, 11. Ordinary Man, 12. Heat Of The Night (Bonus-Video).   The Arrows – Stand Back / Label: Yesterrock/Universal / Release date: 29.07.2011 The Arrows were an AOR band formed in 1981 in Toronto, Canada. Their first release was an EP called 'Misunderstood'. After a couple of line-up changes, singer Dean McTaggart recruited guitar player Doug McAskill (Deja Vu, The Stampeders, Moxy), bassist Peter Bleakney and drummer Gary Craig, and signed a deal with A&M Records. Their debut album 'Stand Back' was produced and co-written by David Tyson (who co-wrote Alannah Myles' #1 hit 'Black Velvet') and who also took over the keyboards on this record. The song 'Meet Me In The Middle' became a hit single in 1984 and charted in various countries world-wide. After a couple of more line-up changes and one more album release, The Arrows split up in 1986. Dean McTaggart later on worked as song-writer and producer for Tina Arena and Amanda Marshall, and released three solo albums. 'Stand Back' has been long time out of print and become a rare collector's item. With the help of Universal Music Germany, Yesterrock remastered all songs and is now re-releasing this sought after album. Line-Up: Dean McTaggart (Vocals), Gary Craig (Drums), Peter Bleakney (Bass), Doug Macaskill (Guitars), David Tyson (Keyboards). Track list: 01. Meet Me In The Middle, 02. Say It Isn`t True, 03. Fallen Angel, 04. Never Be Another One, 05. Girl In 313, 06. Stand Back, 07. Enough Is Never Enough, 08. I Owe You, 09. Easy Street.   B.E. Taylor Group – Our World / Label: Yesterrock/Sony / Release Date: 12.08.2011 B.E. Taylor is an American singer born and raised in Pennsylvania. His career, which now has lasted for more than three decades, started with the B.E. Taylor Group in Pittsburgh, USA in the early 80's. This band has released four albums in total, three of them on MCA/Epic records, and also featured various members of prog band Crack In The Sky - including guitarist Rick Witkowski - in the line-up. In 1986, B.E.Taylor Group released their fourth and final album 'Our World'. This record included the top 100 billboard hit single 'Karen'. After the split of his group, B.E. TAYLOR continued his career as a solo artist working in the Christian Rock scene. 'Our World' is a stellar AOR album and one of the most wanted AOR releases from the mid 80's. This album was never officially released on CD before and thanks to Yesterrock and with the help of Sony Music Germany, this lost treasure was lavishly remastered at Munich's MSM Studios and is now available for a wider audience. Line-Up: B.E. Taylor (Vocals), Nat Kerr (Keybords), Joey D'Amico (Drums), Jim Spears (Bass), Rick Witkowski (Guitars). Tracklist: 01. The Fire's Gone, 02. Question Of Love, 03. Our World, 04. Beautiful Day, 05. Reggae Rock n' Roll, 06. Girl In The Know, 07. Runaway, 08. Take Me To Your Heart, 09. Karen.   TRIUMPH'S 'ALLIED FORCES' TO BE REISSUED AS VINYL PACKAGE FOR 30TH ANNIVERSARY: Triumph's 1981 release, Allied Forces, was the album where it all came together for these Canadian prog-metallists ­ great compositions, great performances, and great album design…back when album designs mattered! And now, fans will be able to take a highly welcome trip down memory lane, as 'Allied Forces' will be reissued as a "30th Anniversary Vinyl Edition." on Tuesday, September 20th, 2011. The album's tracks are from the original source material (as prepared by the legendary Bob Ludwig), while the packaging itself will exactly mirror the original '81 vinyl version (including the four-color, UV coated inner sleeve, complete with photos, lyrics and credits). The record itself will be pressed on pristine 180 gram vinyl, which will also include a free download card, so fans can download this rock n' roll classic , as well as a video, directly to their digital player. TML Entertainment will be releasing the album, distributed by ADA in the US and UMG in Canada. The LP will be manufactured by Rainbo Records in Los Angeles, the premier replicator of vinyl in North America. 'Allied Forces' spawned two of Triumph's most beloved and enduring arena rock anthems ­ "Magic Power" and "Fight the Good Fight." Produced by the group themselves (vocalist/guitarist Rik Emmett, bassist Michael Levine, and vocalist/drummer Gil Moore), the nine-track album was certified Platinum, and has gone on to sell an impressive 2.5 million copies worldwide. "I am excited that the 'Allied Forces' LP is being re-released," enthuses Levine. "Vinyl was always my favorite audio format, because it has really nice warmth and depth. Yet another reason to polish up the turntable and crank up the volume!" Additionally, all three members of Triumph, will be debuting the release of the album along with host Bob Coburn, live on Rockline, Wednesday, September 21st (30 years to the week of the album's original release). Soon, you will be able to re-create the excitement you experienced when you cruised down to the local record shop to pick up 'Allied Forces,' back in the fall of '81. Get prepared to fight the good fight once more! 'Allied Forces' Track Listing: Side "A" "Fool for Your Love" ­ 4:34 "Magic Power" ­ 4:54 "Air Raid" ­ 1:18 "Allied Forces" ­ 5:05 "Hot Time (In This City Tonight)" ­ 3:23 Side "B" "Fight the Good Fight" ­ 6:16 "Ordinary Man" ­ 7:17 "Petite Etude" instrumental ­ 1:15 "Say Goodbye" ­ 4:34. For more information, visit: www.triumphmusic.com. NANCY WILSON FRACTURES WRIST: A note from Heart's Nancy Wilson: "I once signed a cast on Ann and said "Way to go Spaz".... well... Remind me to never wear flip flops on a marble floor covered in 'leave in hair conditioner'. That's how you get an occult fracture on your left wrist. The most common fracture of all fractures, and the easiest one to heal. So if you happen to notice another guy playing on stage with us for a while, his name is Serj (a friend of Kristian) who will be my wingman and guitar helper until I'm totally healed. I never expected to learn so much about wrist splint fashion as I have in the last few weeks. Maybe I can start a new trend! (photos coming soon!) Cheers! Nancy."   DEEN CASTRONOVO TALKS STEVE PERRY, WHO IS SET FOR NEW GUEST ALBUM APPEARANCE: Journey drummer Deen Castronovo talks to Sweden's Metal Shrine Blog about the band's new album and in this excerpt, singing while drumming on stage: "The funny thing is, since I´ve done these songs for so long, I know exactly when to breathe, I know exactly how much air I need to get to get those songs out. Usually the drumming is like autopilot. I´m concentrating on singing the best I can and if you don´t, the fans will crucify you! I´m not even close to Steve Perry, nobody is! He´s a god and always will be, but I do my best and I try to bring the songs out as close as I can to the original, but of course I´ll never be Steve Perry, but I wish I was! He was an icon and still is an icon. One of my big influences. It´s just where you place your breathing and the drums take the backseat." Interview: metalshrineblogg.blogspot.com/2011/07/intervju-med-deen-castronovo-i-journey.html#links In related news, Journey's reclusive former vocalist Steve Perry will make a rare guest appearance on the upcoming solo album by ex-Antigone Rising singer Cassidy. Follow the Freedom, which is due out this fall, not only features Perry on its title track, but he was involved in mixing the album, as well. NewsLink: www.b1027.com/music/rock-report/17596-steve-perry-a-rare-journey.html. MONSTER ENERGY CLIMBS ABOARD 'SHIPROCKED 2011' CONTINUING ITS SUPPORT FOR ROCK MUSIC BY LAND AND BY SEA: Monster Energy joins ShipRocked 2011 as it sets sail November 14-19, 2011 from Ft. Lauderdale, FL, heading for the tip of Mexico and the Caribbean. Now in its fourth year, ShipRocked brings a mix of classic and new rock powerhouses upon the seas featuring LA's multi-platinum Buckcherry, along with progressive metal pioneers Queensryche, Oklahoma retro rockers Hinder, metal desperados Hellyeah, the hard rocking crowd favorite Sevendust, Australia's hot export Sick Puppies, rock radio mainstays Candlebox and alt-rock pioneers Filter, funk-rock champions Living Colour, and LA's road warriors In This Moment, are all sure to wreak havoc on the high seas. Main support comes from SR perennials and favorites Lynam as well as the inescapable Texas thunder of Broken Teeth and new sensation Rival Sons. In response to Monster Energy's involvement ShipRocked's Alan Koenig stated, "ShipRocked is very proud to welcome Monster Energy as it shares our commitment to supporting great music. On ShipRocked, cruise goers will have the chance to experience a concert event with an intensity only matched by 20-foot sea swells, helping solidify a four-pronged trident of rock and roll mayhem." Koenig adds, "ShipRocked 2011 will truly be the ultimate rock and roll cruise vacation. We've got an amazing line-up of artists, all meeting and greeting fans, performing multiple shows over five days and nights. We'll be sailing to two exotic ports-of-call on-board a beautiful new luxury liner filled with spacious balcony cabins. Mix in a lot of fun with the warm Caribbean sun, and it's simply the best value out there." The setting is the MSC Poesia, one of the cruise industry's most acclaimed new super cruise ships, which features the luxurious Aqua Spa, two pools, four Jacuzzis, a state-of-the-art cardio gym, salon, sushi bar, a la carte Italian dining, wine tasting bar, and the Teatro Carlo Felice, a beautiful and intimate Las Vegas-style theater. It all begins in Fort Lauderdale, FL, visiting the premier Mexican ports of Costa Maya and Cozumel. Prices start at only $799 per person (subject to availability), based on double occupancy, and include all access to all ShipRocked concerts and special events, deluxe stateroom, meals, ship facilities, and much, much more! Space is limited so early booking is encouraged to guarantee your cabin. Tickets for ShipRocked 2011 are being sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and are only available by booking online at www.GetShipRocked.com or by calling 1-888-438-9509. To stay updated on ShipRocked and see more of what is in store for the 2011 cruise visit www.GetShipRocked.com / www.monsterarmy.com / www.monsterenergy.com. ROGUE MALE RETURN FOR MORE: Following recent line-up changes Rogue Male are delighted to announce their new line-up: Jim Lyttle – vocals, guitar; John Binnie – guitar; Phil Clark – bass; Larry Paterson – drums. Phil Clark is the band's original bassist who played on the debut album 'First Visit'. Now with three original members of Rogue Male and Larry Paterson on drums, Rogue Male are well and truly back with a vengeance. To showcase the new Rogue Male, there will be a select number of shows in the UK: 29 September: London, Purple Turtle 6 October: Birmingham, Roadhouse 8 October: Saltash, Livewire Ahead of the London show, the band will be releasing the new single 'Liar' and a video is also planned. Rogue Male's new album is scheduled for release in 2012. For all the latest news and information, please visit: www.rm2kmusic.com. INTRODUCING MYRATH: Tales of Sand, the new album from Tunisian Oriantale metallers Myrath, is scheduled for release on September 26th via XIII bis Records. The CD was produced by Kevin Codfert (Adagio), and was recorded earlier this year at Xfade studios in Paris. Mixing duties were handled by Fredrik Nordstrom (Dimmu B. In Flames etc...) mastering by Jens Bogren (Symphony X). Track listing: 01- Under Siege (4:28) 02- Braving The Seas (4:20) 03- Merciless Times (3:28) 04- Tales Of The Sands (5.19) 05- Sour Sigh (4:58) 06- Dawn Within (3:31) 07- Wide Shut (5:25) 08- Requiem For A Goodbye (4:23) 09- Beyond The Stars (5:15) 10- Time To Grow (4:02). The band will be on Europe Tour (Nov / Dec) with Orphaned Land + Arkan + Artweg.   GARY GENTRY TO RELEASE NEW SINGLE "BEAUTIFUL ANGEL": Songwriter/bass player Gary Gentry based in Nashville Tennessee is currently recording his first single "Beautiful Angel"... This will be the first original recording since leaving the band Alibi Bridge earlier this year. This beautiful love song will be available in September for down load on Gary's MySpace site as well as other internet sites to be announced soon. In the meantime you can hear songs recorded with ALIBI BRIDGE: www.myspace.com/garyngentry. INTRODUCING ROMERO: Based out Denver, Colorado, Romero is a melodic hard rock band featuring actor/musician Christopher C. Romero. Romero made its live debut on June 28th In Denver Colorado as the support act for John Corabi & Cinderella. Romero's CD was co-written & produced by guitarist Dan Brown Jr. The live line up featured bassist Robbie Crane (Ratt) & drummer Jimmy D Anda (Bullet Boys). The 1st single, "Hear Me" is hitting radio in Denver (KBPI, KILO) & Los Angeles (KROQ). As an actor, Romero had a cameo in Rob Zombies "Halloween 2" & "Things To Do In Denver When You're Dead" with Andy Garcia & Christopher Walken. Romero will be featured in the grindhouse film, 'Killer Ink" starring Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca from Star Wars). For more info visit: www.killerinkmovie.com.   INTRODUCING WAS - WHERE ANGELS SUFFER: A new band called Where Angels Suffer are performing dates across the UK and Europe. Where Angels Suffer feature 2 members of 2 W.A.S.P - Stet Howland (Drums), Chris Holmes (Guitar), Steve Unger (Bass) (ex-Metal Church), Ira Black (Guitar) and Rich Lewis (Vocals) (ex-Animal). The dates are as follows: Aug. 26th Untouchables Jevnaker Norway Aug. 27th Alcatraz Festival Belgium Aug. 28th TBA Germany Aug. 29th Rockcity Switzerland Aug. 30th The Underworld London UK Aug. 31st The Diamond Sutton In Ashfield UK Sept. 1st Yardbirds Club Grimsby UK Sept. 2nd Sleazy Weekend, Elm street Oslo, Norway Sept. 3rd Backstage Rockbar Trollhattan, Sweden Where Angels Suffer is a project that is long overdue. This all-star band of Metal Royalty has come together to create a new album, encompassing the essence of great Metal Rock bands. The project came naturally, as previous members of W.A.S.P. the artists share a unique style and talent that will be showcased on this exciting album. The band, comprised of Chris Holmes, Stet Howland, Steve Unger, Ira Black, Rich Lewis will embrace their metal history while simultaneously astounding their fans with ground breaking original songs that could have only by created by the exceptional chemistry and passion these professional musicians discovered when they came together in their new creative endeavour Where Angles Suffer. WebLink: www.whereangelssuffer.com.   ELECTRA ADDED TO SUNSET STRIP FESTIVAL: Greek American rock artist Electra has been added to the line up of the Sunset Strip Music Festival along with Motley Crue, Bush, Public Enemy, Matt & Kim, Escape The Fate. Electra has been called the hardest working unsigned artist in Hollywood and packing every show on the Sunset strip. Electra just released her first music video "Problem Child" and doing pre-production in Simon Phillips "Phantom recording" studio for her new CD. "Problem child" video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=KuqC3qP8Lzs / www.reverbnation.com/electrabarakos / www.facebook.com/electrabarakosmusic. TRUCKER DIABLO SIGN US RECORD DEAL: News from upcoming Irish rockers Trucker Diablo: "Onto the good stuff, we are overjoyed to announce that we have just signed a deal with Californian label Ripple Music. They are a relatively new independent label but are no strangers to the music industry and are steeped in the music world with some legendary connections. They have about 8 bands on their roster, some with significant music history and are excellent bands. We have initially signed a two album deal with worldwide distribution including potential North American distribution through a major label. We have had quite a few email and phone conversations so we talked things through quite a bit before we decide to go ahead. The main reason we choose Ripple is the "Family factor", might sound strange but they are 100% into their bands and want us to be a part of their musical family and help us grow as artists over a period of years. This was critical for us as they want to promote us in the states and elsewhere to increase our profile. So from here we want to take things to the next level and do everyone proud and let you know "You are the fuel", without you there is no Trucker and as long as you continue to support us, we will continue on to do what we love." Trucker Diablo released the album The Devil Rhythm to critical acclaim (see comments below) in 2010 and new single Drink Beer, Destroy has been bouncing all over the world on loads of radio stations. The band just finished a BBC Radio One live session which airs in two weeks and we have been added to the Metal Hammer cover mount CDs for August. This year we were handpicked by the Download festival promoters to play the festival and we have had airplay in over 30 countries around the world with most airplay coming from UK, Ireland, USA and Australia. So things are really moving in the Trucker camp. We implemented a great web strategy this past year, which has greatly boosted our profile. This side of Christmas we will be playing two big local festivals and will be playing with 'Spit like this' on part of their UK tour in Ireland and will be showcasing for Hard Rock Hell in Glasgow in October with the full festival taking place in December across three days. Album number two is scheduled for 2012 with also a 10 date U.S tour pencilled in for March 2012. WebLinks: www.truckerdiablo.com / www.facebook.com/truckerdiablo / www.twitter.com/truckerdiablo. Ricky Warwick –Thin Lizzy - "One of the best new bands from Northern Ireland!!" Cormac Nesson –The Answer - "Great album guys. Refreshingly honest Northern Irish rock n roll" Joe Elliot - Def Leppard - "Absolutely Rockin stuff" Dom Lawson - Metal Hammer "Excellent arse-kicking rawk action!" HARD ROCK NIGHTS JOINS TOTAL ROCK NETWORK: PRLog (Press Release) – Jul 22, 2011 – Since hitting the airwaves Hard Rock Nights has steadily gained the attention of fans and radio station program directors from around the world with a rotation of new and unheard bands mixed with current favorites and classic hits. The weekly version of the internationally syndicated program can currently be heard on 33 affiliates in 8 countries, but on July 24th Hard Rock Nights will begin airing on one of the biggest hard rock/metal stations in the world; TotalRock Radio. Hard Rock Nights will air on TotalRock Radio Sun/Wed. nights from midnight to 0200 London local time & 7:00 – 9:00 pm EST with additional times for replays still to be determined. Unlike the weekly version, the TotalRock editions of Hard Rock Nights will be unedited, uncensored, and exclusive to TotalRock and its listeners. "TotalRock is one of the best known hard rock/metal stations in the world so for them to want to be involved with Hard Rock Nights that's pretty mind-blowing to me. Even though we air at midnight in the UK, it's prime time for all the listeners here in North America so for anyone tired of the homogenized rock heard on corporate cluster radio Hard Rock Nights offers a pretty damn good alternative and hopefully our friends in the UK and around the world will stay up late and join us too." declares host Brian Basher. Hard Rock Nights is an independently produced syndicated radio program, based in Amarillo, TX, hosted by Brian Basher, which currently airs on 33 affiliates, in 8 countries and can be heard approximately 60 times a week. Participating stations and show times can be found at: hardrocknights.com/affiliates. TotalRock is based in London, England and for over 10 years has been considered "The True Voice of Rock & Metal" - totalrock.com. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with four new killer features from the vaults: - Cinderella - Demos Volume 2 - AC/DC Nashville 78 - Black Sabbath - War Memorial Syracuse NY 12-12-1976 (FM-KBFH) - Chicago - Lakewood Amphitheater Atlanta GA 07-29-1989 MRX Membership Info.

 

 

Thursday, July 28, 2011

RIVERDOGS WORLD GONE MAD - PRE-SALE OPEN: On September 30, the Riverdogs will fulfil a long time promise to fans and to themselves to release brand new material with guitarist Vivian Campbell (Def Leppard, Thin Lizzy, ex-Dio, ex-Shadowking) for the first time since their 1990 debut album. The album is World Gone Mad - a short, but succinct collection of personal, reflective and honest songs, powered by some of the best musicians in the world.   Riverdogs was formed by vocalist/guitarist Rob Lamothe and bassist Nick Brophy. Following an introduction to the guys, Vivian Campbell (Def Leppard, ex-Dio, ex-Whitesnake) agreed to produce Riverdogs' first demo. Vivian was so impressed by their talent, he joined the band for their debut-album, released on Epic Records in 1990, winning a prestigious Edison Award in The Netherlands. Soon after, drummer Marc Danzeisen joined the band to complete the line-up. Though fans and critics gave the album a warm reception, lack of support from their record label eventually led the band to go independent, with Campbell departing the line-up. Releasing another two albums in Europe, the band continued to pick up fans before eventually disbanding. Campbell settled into the Def Leppard line-up and Nick Brophy become and continues to be a respected engineer and producer. Rob Lamothe continued an acclaimed solo career and Marc Danzeisen an in-demand session player. In 2003 the band gathered again to record new material and play a few reunion shows. Those new songs were recorded as demos, but never completed. In 2010 MelodicRock Records approached band manager Paul Liszewski about a possible release of these songs. The band liked the idea so much an agreement was reached and over the course of a few week long get-togethers, the line-up of Lamothe, Campbell, Brophy and Danzeisen recorded final versions of the 2003 tracks as well as writing a couple of brand new songs. Added to the new World Gone Mad album is one live cut from the band's 2004 re-union shows, a cover of the Badfinger classic. World Gone Mad is the fulfilment of a long promised release of new Riverdogs material. The band's faithful fanbase are rewarded with 7 new Riverdogs classics, issued at a special price. Track Listing with audio samples: 01 - World Gone Mad 02:38 02 - Big Steel Town 02:36 03 - Best Day of My Life 04:06 04 - Just A Little Higher 03:15 05 - For You 04:03 06 - This Empty Room 02:51 07 - Glitter Town 02:46 08 - No Matter What (Live) 02:59 PRE-ORDER NOW AT THE SPECIAL ONE-OFF DISCOUNT PRICE OF US$10.00 (+$5.00 shipping airmail worldwide). ORDERS ARE OPEN NOW VIA PAYPAL LINK BELOW. ALL pre-orders will ship prior to September 16, ensuring all that pre-order will be the first to receive this release.     TAXXI PRE-ORDER REMINDER: Also available for pre-order now is Taxxi's 'from the vault' album Traxx. The classic-style AOR album will be released officially on August 29. Pre-ordered copies will ship out by August 12 at the latest. So if you want to be the first to hear this cracking album, order now. And as an extra bonus, those that do pre-order will receive a link to one extra track not on this release...a track that should be very familiar to Taxxi fans. Track Listing with audio samples: 01. Writing On The Wall (4:17) 02. I Just Want To Be With You (3:54) 03. I Want You Back (4:20) 04. Last Of The Red Hot Lovers (4:51) 05. Never Lived A Dream (4:14) 06. One Man One Voice (3:58) 07. Cupids Arrow (4:14) 08. Lust For Gold (4:10) 09. It Ain't Over (4:14) 10. Hot Shot (3:29) 11. Restless Heart (4:26)     AOR HEAVEN - WHITE WIDDOW & NEWMAN FOR SEPTEMBER: AOR Heaven have announced their planned releases for September 23 - White Widdow – Serenade Founded in Melbourne Australia, White Widdow was formed in 2008 by front man Jules Millis , Bassist Trent Wilson and Guitarist Enzo Almanzi. Soon after, Jules brought in his brother Xavier Millis on the keyboards, a two time ARIA (Australian Record Industry Award) nominee. With Xavier onboard, the writing team was in place and the line-up was then completed with Jim Naish on drums. Raised on a healthy diet of 80's Arena Rock and influenced by artists such as White Sister, Giuffria, Aviator, Survivor, Danger Danger, Rick Springfield and Roxus, White Widdow started out playing live amongst the diverse Melbourne Rock scene, they 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. In 2010 White Widdow stormed onto the Melodic Rock scene across the globe with the release of their self titled debut album through AOR Heaven. With the release of the debut, the full vision of White Widdow has become a reality. An album full of Melodic Rock and AOR anthems filled with swirling keyboards, blistering guitar playing and big choruses full of hooks. Hot on the heels of their debut, White Widdow return with their follow up release "Serenade". Proud of their 80's influences, the new album "Serenade" retains the urgency and energy of the White Widdow debut, while also showcasing more diversity in song style and structure. Recorded at Solid State Studios in Melbourne Australia and Mixed and Mastered by Pelle Saether (Grand Design) at Studio Underground in Sweden. Track list: 1. Cry Wolf, 2. Strangers In The Night, 3. Do You Remember, 4. Reckless Nights, 5. How Far I Run, 6. Serenade, 7. Show Your Cards, 8. Mistake, 9. Patiently, 10. Love Won't Wait. Soundfiles in advance: Cry Wolf / How Far I Run / Strangers In The Night. Band on the web: www.whitewiddow.com.au / www.facebook.com/whitewiddowaor.   xx Newman – Under Southern Skies Newman was formed in 1997 by Singer/Guitarist Steve Newman. He enlisted the help of Mark Mulholland (Drums) and William Marshall (Bass) for the first self-titled album which was subsequently released in Germany that following year. In 1999 Newman signed to a British label for a four album deal which spawned the albums "One Step Closer", "Dance In The Fire", "Sign Of The Modern Times" and "Heaven Knows". The first of which saw the title track "One Step Closer" chart in Japan. Those albums established Newman as one of the top UK rock bands with a reputation for producing well-crafted melodic rock. In 2006 Steve parted ways with his label and formed his own venture Chrome Dome Records. Later in 2007 "Primitive Soul" was released to great reviews around the globe and was followed in 2008 with the double CD "Decade". The first CD charting the bands career so far and adding a second CD of unreleased material. Steve then worked towards re-establishing the live band by recruiting Neil Richardson (Guitar), Paul Boyle (Keyboards), Nic Lipscombe (Drums), and Terry Horne (Bass). In 2009 the band played Z Rock Festival and supported John Waite on his UK Tour. 2010 saw the release of " The Art Of Balance", which not only raised the bar sonically it also proved again that Steve Newman has a talent for producing quality hook laden, melodic rock. This release went on to become one of the most successful albums of Steve's career receiving. The band, with new bassist Dave Bartlett played various shows to support the new album including the Cambridge Rock Festival and after enlisting the talents of a new Guitarist in Shaun Bessant the band were asked to play at the prestigious Firefest Festival that year and a CD/DVD was recorded for future release. This brings us to 2011 and after the signing and release of the much acclaimed Big Life album featuring Steve Newman and Mark Thompson-Smith. The relationship between AOR Heaven and Steve Newman continues with the release of Newman's brand new studio album "Under Southern Skies". This CD, recorded and produced once again at Steve's Blue Room Studios features 11 songs much in the style of Newman's earlier work but taking in modern influences present in the crisp up to date production. The album once again features Steve Newman on Vocals, Guitar, Keyboards, and Rob McEwen taking on Drum responsibilities. There is also an appearance by Shaun Bessant playing Lead Guitar on the track "If He Loves You". Track list: 01 Killing Me, 02 If He Loves You, 03 Under Southern Skies, 04 Strength To Carry On, 05 Ghost In The Night, 06 Without Warning, 07 She's Gone, 08 Fire With Fire, 09 Save No Prisoners, 10 Wish You Were Here, 11 Montserrat. Soundfiles in advance: Ghost In The Night / Killing Me / Under Southern Skies. Band on the web: www.newmansound.com.   xx GREGG ROLIE LIVE IN DALLAS: Gregg Rolie, co-founder of two multi-platinum super groups, Santana and Journey, makes a unique solo appearance on Friday, September 30th at Poor David's Pub in Dallas. This special performance is in celebration of his new solo EP, "Five Days". Gregg, along with his special guest, Austin blues guitarist Alan Haynes, will be playing selections from the new EP along with many old favorites. He'll share stories from his 40-plus year career and answer questions from the audience during the show. After his performance, there will be a meet-and-greet with the audience and Gregg will be available for pictures and autographs. Gregg Rolie is the voice behind the classic Santana hits "Black Magic Woman", "Evil Ways", and "Oye Como Va". In 1998, this world-class musician, writer, producer was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as the lead vocalist of the Santana band. After four albums with Santana, Gregg joined a new band in 1973 with ex-Santana guitarist Neal Schon - Journey. As Journey's keyboardist, lead vocalist and co-lead vocalist throughout the rest of the 70's, Gregg helped co-write and produce that band's first seven albums. "Feeling That Way", "Anytime", and "Just The Same Way" were all memorable songs from that period of Gregg's career. Just released in 2011, "Five Days", is Gregg's latest EP/CD consisting of six songs with Gregg playing acoustic piano and singing live. He recorded these tracks in his living room on the piano given to him by his father in the early days of Santana, and as Gregg says, "it's from my house to yours". He gives beautiful new renditions of two classic hits that he sang as the lead singer in Santana – "Black Magic Woman" and Journey – "Anytime" – as well as four new songs, his own compositions through solo voice and piano. Recently featured on the cover of the UK's Keyboard Player magazine, Rolie is a renowned Hammond B3 player, celebrated for his gritty and intense performances. Up close, personal and intimate, this show will feature a side of Gregg that all fans should get to know. WebLinks: greggroliedallas2011.eventbrite.com / www.greggrolie.com. For a preview: www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDQiid_ntPE. WICKED SINS TO RELEASE DELAYED DEBUT CD: Two years ago Hard Rock / Melodic Rock band Wicked Sins finished their debut CD and immediately after the disc was mastered they had their world turned upside down. The power trio had lost their drummer Donnie Skiff to a horrific murder that shocked the nation. Wicked Sins now consisting of longtime vocalist / bassist Dyer Knight and guitarist Ken Kelly have been joined by drummer Rod Foxx. Wicked Sins has decided it's time to move forward and release the long awaited CD, not only in tribute to their fallen brother but to let family, friends and fans worldwide have the opportunity to own the last recordings of drummer Donnie Troy Skiff. Wicked Sins are very proud of the CD and believe any fans of Warrant, Winger and Whitesnake will appreciate their music. The band has played a few select dates and recently shared the stage with Slaughter in Pennsylvania. The return to the stage and the time that had passed prompted Wicked Sins to move forward with the release of the album. Wicked Sins CD is available as a download on iTunes, Amazon and Napster and the physical disc may be purchased directly from the band via their web site: wickedsins.tripod.com/stuff.html.

 

 

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

HOUSE OF LORDS COME BACK WITH BIG MONEY TO SPEND ON THE NEW ALBUM: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of the brand new House Of Lords studio album Big Money on September 23 in Europe and September 27 in North America. Following on the heels of the successful release of Cartesian Dreams House of Lords are coming back with another amazingly strong release which presents again all the trademark elements of their Melodic Hard Rock sound. "I am very proud to have done four HOL CD's with the same line-up" says singer James Christian, "I enjoy working with every one of them and plan to do many more records in the future. Mark Baker has now been on board as a co-writer for the last two CD's I love working with him. We are totally on the same page when writing new music". And indeed, the new album, is truly newest addition to an already stellar catalogue of songs. Big Money, is well, 'BIG'. The album starts with the trademark vocals of James Christian and crashes into a Power Rock Classic that you will not forget after the first listen, followed by in a song that Christian describes "as the band's best work to date": One Man Down. Each song has its own distinct quality as you would expect from The Lords and once again the album is full of soaring choruses, awesome guitar work and songs that grab you from the first listen and don't let go. "The elements we use on "Big Money" are always the same for us and that is to write and record the best songs that we can" explains Christian. "We always write enough songs for more than one CD and then we pick the best songs to make up the new record.  We will always be a Melodic Rock Group.  It is the music that made us want to be musicians in the first place.  So we will always stay true to that art!". James teamed up again on the songwriting with long-time friend and partner Mark Baker along with the other band members Jimi Bell and BJ Zampa and Swedish producer/guitarist Tommy Denander. House of Lords debuted in 1989 with the release of the self-titled album, a record which is still regarded as one of the best Arena Rock releases of the 80's. The colossal sound, the soaring vocals of James Christian and instrumental capabilities of the band (which featured ex Angel and Giuffria Gregg Giuffria, along with such luminaries as Lanny Cordola, Chuck Wright and Ken Mary), reminiscent of such frontrunners as Whitesnake, Deep Purple and Van Halen, immediately brought the band to the attention of the media and fans. With their sophomore release entitled "Sahara", House of Lords gained considerable chart success with their cover version of Blind Faith's "Can't Find My Way Home". After a tour with Nelson in 1991, the group disbanded, eventually coming back with a new line-up (only featuring original members Giuffria and Christian) in 1992 with "Demon's Down". With the change of the musical climate, House of Lords went into hibernation, until the original line-up came back together in 2000, releasing of the controversial "Power and the Myth" an album which featured a sound leaning more towards Progressive Hard Rock with 70's rock influences. After a short European tour, singer James Christian decided to go back to the trademark Arena Rock sound of House Of Lords, putting together a new line-up with the blessing of founding member Gregg Giuffria, who opted out right before the release of "Power and the Myth". New members Jimi Bell on guitars, B.J. Zampa on drums and Chris McCarvill on bass supplied a true powerhouse sound to the fifth studio album "World Upside Down", a record which caused a real stir in the Hard Rock and Melodic Rock scene and was followed up by the equally impressive "Come to My Kingdom" and "Cartesian Dreams" The new album "Big Money" includes the following tracks: Big Money, One Man Down, First To Cry, Searchin', Someday When, Livin' In A Dream World, The Next Time I Hold You, Run For Your Life, Hologram, Seven, Once Twice, Blood. Also included: multimedia bonus videoclip "Someday When". It is possible to enjoy a promotional EPK of "Big Money" following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFrQedTqXzc. House Of Lords have already confirmed the following tour dates in Europe: 15 October – UK – Sheffield – Corporation 18 October - Germany – Osnabrueck – Ballroom 20 October – Germany – Munich – Garage Deluxe 21 October – Netherlands – Weert – De Bosuil 22 October – France – Le Savigny - L'empreinte 24 October - Germany - Frankfurt Am Main - Sinkasten 28 October – Italy – Bologna – Sottotetto 29 October – Italy – Trofarello (TO) – Il Peocio 30 October – Switzerland – Pratteln - Z7 Rockfabrik 2 November - Austria - Kufstein – Q-West 4 November – Sweden – Vaxjo – Dirty Harry 5 November – Sweden – Trolhattan - Backstage 10 November – Spain - Madrid 11 November - Spain - Valladolid 13 November - Portugal -Lisbon - Clap Box / Music Box Watch out for more dates on www.jameschristianmusic.com and www.frontiers.it.   xx EDEN'S CURSE FRONT MAN ON RECENT SHOWS WITH PROG METAL LEGENDS DREAM THEATER IN THE UK: Michael Eden comments: "Believe me when I say Dream Theater sound amazing these days. You would never know they lost a drummer as it seems they have lost nothing that the fans noticed what so ever. Their fan base is super hardcore and don't take to just any band. They took to The Curse and we hail them! The new recruit Mike Mangini more than replicates the bands material and is one intense drummer with world class chops and attitude, not to mention he is a super cool dude. He delivers and then some. Eden's Curse thank Dream Theater and their crew for the chance to deliver The Curse music to their fan base and from the comments we are hearing it was a success on every level. We all had a blast!!!" Fan filmed footage of Eden's Curse performing their single "No Holy Man" at Leeds O2 Academy on Friday 22nd July has been posted on You Tube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0Y0L_s17oU. GLYDER TO RELEASE "BACKROADS TO BYZANTIUM" IN OCTOBER VIA SPV/STEAMHAMMER: Irish rockers Glyder have completed work on their fourth studio album, "Backroads To Byzantium", for an October 11 North American and October 7 European release via SPV/Steamhammer Records. "Backroads to Byzantium" takes the listener on a road trip that has a hint of Americana and progresses to the re-emerging troubles on the streets of Northern Ireland to being homeless on the streets of London. Other themes on the album concern the evils of the tabloid press and global warming. The album ends off in a reflective mood about mortality and how it's not the end. Glyder's new singer Jackie Robinson has a unique rock voice that sometimes hints at Paul Rodgers and Phil Mogg. Hailing from Northern Ireland, he was recruited through an ad on the Internet and because the rest of the band is from the South of Ireland, the album was written between Jackie and the two Glyder guitarists, Bat Kinane and Pete Fisher, over email. Working with some home recording software and a few Gmail accounts, the new Glyder album took shape over Christmas 2010 and early 2011. The album was recorded in Dublin and mixed in Copenhagen. The stunning artwork was created by Mark Wilkinson. Founding member Bat Kinane spoke about the new lineup and album: "This new Glyder album has i feel my best songwriting and guitar playing to date. I've just put everything into this album and I also seem to have found a new confidence in my playing. Pete's playing is also great and he has some amazing solos. You cannot mistake that this is a great guitar album, but the songwriting I feel is top-notch, too. Jackie, the new singer, really has a quality set of pipes and that makes it very exciting. I like the fact that we used all the modern technology available to us to write the album because Jackie lives 200 miles away. It's very much a classic rock-sounding album, but it was written and recorded in a way that could have not been done thirty years ago. I know in my heart we have done something very special on this album and I'm very proud to be in this band." Some older Glyder tracks with the new singer Jackie Robinson can be heard on www.reverbnation.com/glyder. Glyder have released three albums and have opened for the likes of Metallica, Slash, Dio, Thin Lizzy, Michael Schenker, Mötley Crüe, Blue Oyster Cult. They have headlined in Spain and their own native Ireland as well as headlining to 10.000 rock fans in India. The band is currently lining up dates for festivals in Ireland during the summer and doing some dates with Y+T in Ireland in October. For more info visit: www.facebook.com/glydermusic / www.glydermusic.com / www.spv.de. BIG COCK TURN TO KICKSTARTER: Big Cock is working on their 4th album and they are using Kickstarter to fund the project upfront. With Kickstarter, they are offering "rewards" based upon the amount a person pledges. Dave Henzerling and Robert Mason are asking for fan support to help pay for the recording. They have taken to the fan-funded website Kickstarter to fund the new record. You can check out their home/pledge page at: www.kickstarter.com/projects/driverwildmusic/tell-the-world-you-love-big-cock. Now...I'd like to hear folks thoughts on this. It is something I have been toying with for sometime myself. The idea of more fan/crowd funded recording projects or other such things such as MelodicRock Fest or a special band project that would not normally be able to be funded in advance. As the business models in the entertainment industry swap and change and implode at an unprecedented rate, I'm curious to see what folks think of this concept overall and whether they have partaken in such projects themselves. Hit the message boards or mail me your thoughts. NEW PACKAGE TOUR SET FOR UK IN OCTOBER: After the packaged UK tour featuring CrashDiet, Houston and more in April/May 2011, Academy Music Group and Michael Sunden have decided to keep building the concept into a recurring event. The idea is to build a platform for up-and-coming AOR/Melodic/Sleaze/Rock acts to establish themselves in the UK. October 6-12 2011 sees newcomers Sencelled (SWE), Dynazty (SWE) and Tainted Nation (UK) together with Miss Behaviour (SWE) and of course headline act Electric Boys (SWE). November 2011 dates are already being penned for the next package and will feature Casablanca (SWE), Houston (SWE) and more. Stay tuned! Dates for the current shows below. Click on flyer for full version.   R.I.P. JASON STONEWALL: August 23, 1954 – July 16, 2011 - This in from site regular Bill Howard: "It is with great sorrow that I announce the passing of Indiana legend guitarist Jason (Stonewall) Seidler from complications following a massive heart attack in Daytona Beach, Florida on July 16. Many from parts around America and especially Indiana will remember his effervescent stage presence while performing in such bands as Stonewall and Why On Earth. Later on he collaborated with songwriting partner Joe Weekend, along with Dwayne Kendall and Denny Melman, and produced two CDs under the Stonewall Weekend name. A memorial service will take place at Birdy's Nightclub on August 8 from 6-8 pm. METAL SHRINE TALK STRYPER: Metal Shrine talked to Michael Sweet a while back about old times with CC DeVille and Doug Aldrich, the latest album The Covering, the thought of becoming a priest, the possibility of covering a Slayer song, putting the yellow and black on again for Japan and more. WebLink: metalshrineblogg.blogspot.com/2011/07/intervju-med-michael-sweet-i-stryper.html#links. REDEMPTION – ANNOUNCE RELEASE DATE FOR NEW STUDIO ALBUM & EUROPEAN TOUR: Redemption, the US progressive metal band featuring in its ranks guitarist/songwriter Nick van Dyk and legendary Fates Warning vocalist Ray Alder, proudly announces that their newest, 5th studio album release and follow-up to the highly successful Snowfall On Judgment Day in 2009, will be entitled This Mortal Coil and is to be released on September 26 in Europe and October 11 in North America via InsideOutMusic. REDEMPTION recorded and mixed "This Mortal Coil" with legendary producer Neil Kernon (Queensryche, Nevermore, Kansas, etc.). The album's artwork, which makes its first appearance with this press release, was created by acclaimed artist and longtime band collaborator Travis Smith (Opeth, Avenged Sevenfold, Nevermore, etc). Redemption's Nick van Dyk checked in commenting on the album as follows: "I'm extremely pleased to announce that work on 'This Mortal Coil' has been completed. It was a pleasure to work with Neil Kernon during the production, although I dare say we had more challenges and curve-balls in this process than either of us is accustomed to. Nonetheless we overcame everything in our path, from internet failures to lightning strikes, and since one of the themes of this CD is essentially overcoming adversity, the production process served as a bit of a metaphor for the whole concept! The new CD continues our creative effort to combine heaviness with melody -- fusing those disparate elements has always been part of REDEMPTION's sound, along with an element that I have called emotional urgency, which we've maintained here. All in all, it sounds like REDEMPTION -- although importantly I think it's by far our best-sounding record, owing to the work of Neil Kernon and the mastering of Alan Douches." And Van Dyk adds regarding the artwork: "We have worked once again with the incredibly talented Travis Smith on our art; we work very well together and he has a proven knack for bringing my concepts to life visually." Most recently, Redemption have announced a string of European concerts to support the release of "This Mortal Coil" in early October 2011, including a headlining slot at this year's edition of the "ProgPower Europe" festival. The complete list of confirmed shows is as follows: Redemption Live in Europe 2011: 1. Oct - London, UK, The Underworld 2. Oct - Baarlo, The Netherlands, Progpower Europe 4. Oct - Pratteln, Switzerland, Galery Music Bar/Z-7 5. Oct - Fontaneto D'Agogna / Novara, Italy, Phenomenon Club 7. Oct - Essen, Germany, Turock 8. Oct - Copenhagen, Denmark, Denmark Rock Festival Direct support act on these shows will come from the Italian proggers KINGCROW. Please check REDEMPTION's websites for updates on shows, price, ticket sale links, etc. More details and info on "This Mortal Coil" will also be available in the coming weeks… Redemption online: www.redemptionweb.com / www.myspace.com/thebandredemption / www.facebook.com/RedemptionBand.   FROM THE PAGES OF GIBSON.COM: Aerosmith Continue Work on 'Old School' Album: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/aerosmith-0726-2011 Tommy Mottola Documentary Almost Finished: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/tommy-mottola-0726-2011 Def Leppard Guitarist: Jimi Hendrix 'Clones' Miss the Point: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/def-leppard-0726-2011 New Kiss Album Sounds Bigger than a Sonic Boom: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/kiss-0725-2011 America's Dan Peek Dies: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/dan-peek-0726 (R.I.P. Dan)

 

 

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

RENO TALKS WEIGHT LOSS, LOVERBOY REVIVAL IN ROLLING STONE: From 30 Rock to Fox and Friends and Rolling Stone, Loverboy continue "Working for the Weekend" 30 years after first getting together in Calgary, Alberta, when vocalist Mike Reno was introduced to local guitar hot shot Paul Dean, both veterans of several bands on the local scene. With a full-scale revival in tow, Loverboy frontman Mike Reno told Rolling Stone in a recent interview that he has dropped close to 50 pounds over the past six months, almost bringing him down to the fighting weight he exhibited in the original "Working for the Weekend" video. "I got tired of complaining about my knees being sore," he said after a doctor put him on a strict diet and exercise regimen that included fruit, vegetables and fish. "I feel lighter on stage. I'm dancing around like the old days. I'm singing better. I'm breathing better. It's just a night and day difference. I did it rather quickly over the winter, so it's funny to see the jaws drop on our longtime fans in the first few rows when I walk onstage." The weight loss coincides with the group's return to Bryan Adams' Vancouver studio to cut "Heartbreaker," a brand-new single, with producer Bob Rock—the engineer on their debut album who went on to work with the likes of Metallica—which is now available on the band's website. "Something's in the water," says Reno. "I go to these concerts expecting there to be 3,000 people, and there's seven or eight thousand people! And most of them are young! Even kiddies, like 10 years old. They even know all the words. It's freaking me out." To read the Rolling Stone article in its entirety, go to: www.rollingstone.com/music/news/loverboys-mike-reno-sheds-50-pounds-plots-comeback-20110722. KISS STAR GENE SIMMONS' THERAPIST ON HIS ISSUES: "DO I HAVE TO PICK JUST ONE?": Dr. Ann Wexler is a Beverly Hills-based psychologist specializing in couples therapy. She is currently appearing on Gene Simmons Family Jewels, where she has been helping the Kiss star and his longtime partner Shannon Tweed sort through their relationship troubles. In a new interview with Examiner.com, when asked to identify Gene Simmons' primary therapy issue Wexler quipped, "Wow. Do I have to pick just one?" On a more serious note she said, "When I very first met him, I thought, 'Wow, we really need to break through this rock star persona, this TV persona. We have to break through this and I need to find out who he really is. I need to get to who he really is for us to do real work.' And it turned out that he really did let me in, but I didn't know if he was going to." Dr. Wexler said that Simmons' public displays of cockiness are actually a front to cover up insecurities that stem from his father abandoning him when he was a child. "I believe that insecurity has stayed with him his whole life," she stated. "Even though he's been so hugely successful, and he's so talented, he still has this feeling deep inside of having to prove that he's the man. And I think that's why he sometimes comes off with an overblown self-confidence." The show's season finale airs Tuesday night, and previews show Simmons finally proposing to Tweed after 28 years of being, as he terms it, "happily unmarried." Wexler said that despite the hard work she's done with the couple, the decision whether to stay together or go their separate ways has to come from them. "I don't have an agenda as a psychologist. It's not my place to determine whether a couple should stay together or be apart," she observed. "I work with the couple based on what they each express, what they each need and want, both as individuals and as a couple." SHOTGUN SYMPHONY DIGITALLY RELEASES "HIGHWAY TO TOMORROW - LIVE AT FIREFEST 2010": Asbury, New Jersey, July 26, 2011 – Shotgun Symphony's one off performance of their debut CD at Firefest VII captured the band in top form after an almost 10 year hiatus. "Some of the playing is breathtaking, helping to create an electric atmosphere" (Malcolm Dome) "Shotgun Symphony are one of the best and most consistent bands I've ever seen at this kind of event" (Dave Cockett) "Their debut album is a must have and so is this" (Steve Warsap). The entire live CD including the newly recorded studio track "Can't Get Over" will be available for download from all of your favorite digital outlets (Amazon, iTunes, Rhapsody. Etc…) starting on July 26, 2011. Fans can also order the limited edition CD directly from the Firefest store (www.thefirefest.com) or your usual melodic rock outlets. For more information visit the bands website at www.shotgunsymphony.net.   ARE YOU IN FOR A NEW FERREIRA ALBUM: Marco Ferreira (Singer/Guitarrist of the US band Goodbye Thrill and ex. Venturia) is back with a new Ferreira album Are You In? Available NOW at the new: www.reverbnation.com/ferreira store. For August first the US release of Ferreira Better Run! (Released last year by Escape music only in Europe). Track Listing: 01-The More I Know 02-Searching 03-Tab Of Yesterdays 04-Like A Glove 05-Woman 06-Are You In 07-Pay With Pain 08-Out Of Love 09-Shes Building A Fairy House 10-Manners Song 11-Send It On.   MICHAEL MONROE TO RELEASE SENSORY OVERDRIVE IN USA AUGUST 23 - WORLD TOUR TO FOLLOW: Hollywood, CA (July 26, 2011) - Iconic rock front man, Michael Monroe, will release his new cd Sensory Overdrive in the U.S and Canada on August 23 on Spinefarm/Universal. The new CD from the former front man of the influential band Hanoi Rocks was produced by legendary producer Jack Douglas (Aerosmith, John Lennon, Cheap Trick). The cd also features guest performances from Americana artist Lucinda Williams and Motorhead front man Lemmy. The first single and video from Sensory Overdrive is the track "78". The video will have its world premiere on AOL on August 1. In support of the CD, Monroe will head out September 30 on a 16 date U.S and Canadian tour with his all star band featuring guitarists Steve Conte (New York Dolls) and Dregen (Hellacopters, Backyard Babies), bassist Sami Yaffa (Hanoi Rocks, Jetboy, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts), and drummer Karl "Rockfist" Rosqvist (Danzig). Following the U.S run, the band will head to Japan for the V Rock festival to be followed by shows in Michael's home country of Finland. The band will then end 2011 with a run of shows in the U.K co-headlining with Wednesday 13. Tour dates are as follows: Tour Dates: Wed , Sep 7 Stockholm Debaser Medis, Sweden Fri, Sep 9 Naantali, Finland Sat, Sep 10 Finland Radio Rock Cruise Fri, Sep 30 Philadelphia, PA Trocadero Sat, Oct 1 Baltimore, MD Sonar Sun, Oct 2 New York, NY Bowery Ballroom Tue, Oct 4 Boston, ma Great Scott Wed, Oct 5 Montreal, QC Les Foufounes Electriques Thu, Oct 6 Toronto, ON Mod Club Theater Fri, Oct 7 Cleveland, OH Peabody's Sat, Oct 8 Chicago, IL Reggie's Rock Club Sun, Oct 9 St Paul, MN Station 4 Mon, Oct 10 St Louis, MO FuBar Wed, Oct 12 Denver, CO Moe's Sat, Oct 15 Seattle, WA El Corazon Sun, Oct 16 Portland, OR Dante's Tue, Oct 18 Santa Clara, CA Avalon Theater Wed, Oct 19 Santa Ana, CA Galaxy Theatre Thu, Oct 20 Hollywood, CA Whisky A Go Go Sun, Oct 23 V-Rock festival Saitama Super Arena Japan Fri, Nov 4 Lahti Finland Finlandia Club Sat, Nov 5 Tavastia Finland (2 Shows) Tavastia Club Thu, Nov 24 England Wolverhampton Wulfrun Hall Fri , Nov 25 England Manchester Ritz Sat, Nov 26 England Nottingham Rock City Sun, Nov 27 Scotland Glasgow Garage Mon, Nov 28 England Newcastle Academy Tue, Nov 29 England Leeds Academy Thu, Dec 1 England Bristol Academy Fri, Dec 2 England, London Electric Ballroom Sat, Dec 3 Wales Prestatyn HRH The band will continue to do extensive touring in 2012 in support of Sensory Overdrive. For more information go to www.michaelmonroe.com.

 

 

Monday, July 25, 2011

ESCAPE MUSIC PRESS RELEASE - SARACEN: Escape Music have lined up their next scheduled release - Saracen's new concept album – Marilyn. Set for release in Europe September 23. Line-up: Steve Bettney – vocals / Paul Bradder – keyboards / Richard Bendelow – bass, vocals / Paul Gibson – drums / Rob Bendelow – guitar / Snake Davis Saxophone. Words & music: Rob Bendelow. Produced By: Rob Bendelow. Mixed and Mastered By: Martin Kronlund. Special guests: Robin Beck, Steve Overland and Issa. Tracks: The Girl: Norma Jeane / The Orphan: Whither the Wind Blows / The Dreamer: Hold On (Issa) / The Model: Make This Body Work (Robin Beck), / The Actress: Who Am I? (Beck & Overland) / The Wife: Love Like A Razorblade / The Patient: Break the Spell / The Mistress: Not For Sure (Robin Beck), / The Forsaken: Feel Like Going Home (Robin Beck), / The Witness: Unfinished Life / The Woman: Marilyn (Robin Beck). Life long pals Richard Lowe and Rob Bendelow formed their first band "Lammergier" during the mid 70's together with folk guitarist turned rock bassist Barry Yates. The name changed to "Saracen" in the early 80's, but the music remained the same; an ever growing repertoire of powerful guitar orientated rock, laced with lush keyboards and evocative vocals. Escape Music have already presented you with the double CD Red Sky / Heroes, Saints and Fools (ESM124) which covers the band's early years. The conceptual CD "Vox in Excelso" (ESM135) was released in 2006 to great acclaim and has earned the band more and more respect. It's 2011, and this latest release from Saracen is another concept album, carefully crafted around the life and times of that ultimate Hollywood icon – Marilyn Monroe. This opus charts her rollercoaster life, from young orphan to worldwide superstar…..and beyond. As with Saracen's previous album ('Vox In Excelso') the storyline does not shy away from the darker recesses of history; in this case Marilyn's problematic life…and untimely death. No less than five tracks on the album tell their story in Marilyn's own words…..brought to life by the very special guest appearance of American songstress Robin Beck. Robin's unique vocal style adds a dramatic new dimension to this rich collection of interwoven compositions. Saracen's symphonic-rock instrumentation has also been augmented for 'Marilyn' with the inclusion of saxophone impresario Snake Davis. His evocative, soaring solos add greatly to the album's emotional journey. The layered vocal harmonies on 'Marilyn' come courtesy of Saracen bass man Richard Bendelow and classical-turned-rock newcomer Karensa Kerr. The fusion of symphonic rock with choral-style vocal arrangements has produced an intoxicating mix. Two more vocalists make outstanding guest appearances on this album – namely Norwegian rock sensation Issa and 'FM' frontman Steve Overland. Issa handles the lead vocals on 'Hold On', whilst Steve & Robin intertwine beautifully on 'Who Am I?'. Marilyn is a beautiful recording, full of finely honed rock music, powerful ballads and passionate vocals, each song perfectly represents the stages in her life. In short: a masterpiece. www.Escape-Music.com.   HARD ROCK COMMUNITY REACTS TO NORWEGIAN TRAGEDY: Since the last site update the well publicised tragedy in Norway has taken over headlines and given everyone cause to pause and think of all those in Norway that have been touched by this event. Too all my friends in Norway and the vast musical community there, I extend my own personal condolences and pray that time will help folks overcome this. Blabbermouth made a nice compilation of artist comments, which you'll find again below, edited for artists relevant to this site: Matt Sorum: "Thoughts and prayers to the people of Norway I am so sorry for this tragedy,, I hold Norway very close to my heart and this saddens me deeply." Arch Enemy: "Watching the news with heavy hearts. Our thoughts are with our brothers and sisters in Norway. What a horrifying attack. It is hard to believe what happened." Kamelot: "On behalf of all the Kamelot members and organization, our hearts go out to all those affected in the recent attacks in Oslo. Kamelot guitarist Thomas Youngblood adds: 'As many of you know, Norway is like a second home to us and we are wishing the best possible solution and justice in this senseless tragedy. All of us here are very shocked and sad about these events.'" Nikki Sixx: "My heart goes out to all the victims and families of the destruction and murder in Norway... There are no words... I am sorry..." Anette Olzon (Nightwish): "I weep with Norway in this horrible day after the events yesterday where 91 persons died, most of them children and young people. It´s just so horrible that I dont have words for how I feel but I send my condolences to the victims families, the survivors and all of Norway. We really need to reach out to each other instead of hating..." Uriah Heep: "What has happened is beyond words! Our deepest sympathy goes out to each and every family, and our prayers and thoughts are with them at this difficult time!" Sharon Osbourne: "The people in Norway are such gentle lovely people. My thoughts and prayers are with them." Tony Harnell: "To all my fans and dear friends in my second home of Norway, I send you my warmest thoughts and my arms are wrapped around you. You'll get through it like the Vikings you are! My thoughts are with you all during this terrible tragedy. It's too bad the problems of the world have finally reached sweet little Norway." Pagan's Mind: "Words are too small to express how we feel right now. 91 people killed, most of them youngsters same age as some of our own kids... But it's important to keep living life like a dream and don't let bastards like this coward gunman, who didn't even have the guts to end his own misery before police arrested him, ruin your freedom of speech and freedom to explore the world." John Norum: "Dear Europe's Norwegian fans, I would like to send my condolences to the people of Norway on the tragedy that took place yesterday. Please know that our hearts and thoughts are with you." Chris Jericho (Fozzy): "Just read about the horrific events in Norway. I'm in shock that something like that happened. Prayers to the victims and their loved ones." David Coverdale: "My thoughts & prayers go out all those affected by the tragic events in Norway...A beautiful country & a beautiful people...XX" Plus new comments from: Steve Lukather: "My heart goes out to Norway, I have many friends there. I gotta ask Why? Bless the families! No more please anywhere!" Geezer Butler: "It would be disrespectful of me if I didn't mention the passing of one of my all time favourite musicians, Amy Winehouse. To me , she was and is up there with Billie, Bessie, Sarah, Dinah, Ella, and I was so looking forward to her new stuff, but will always love the old stuff. A tremendous talent taken from us. Her voice will live on longer than all the crap written about her. On yet another sad note, my thoughts go out to the people of Norway, after such a terrible tragedy there. So shocking in such a peaceful, beautiful country." GOTTHARD REVEAL NEW LIVE ALBUM: Here is the rather strange over art for the new Gotthard live album Homegrown - Alive In Lugano, the last album to feature the vocals of the late Steve Lee. His replacement will be officially announced after the album is released on September 30. Also - this using Google Translation from the Swiss newspage: "Gotthard guitarist Freddy Scherer (44) still remembers the 17th Juli 2010. July 2010. "Steve was so good on it has been for a long time. The chemistry between him and the 20,000 people on the piazza was hardly in intensity to beat", Scherer says about the concert in Lugano TI. Here, the appearance was long in doubt. A violent storm descended over the city, all the equipment the band was drenched. "Shortly before midnight, finally got the go," says the rocker. Freddy Scherer then adds thoughtfully: "A memorable concert - and unfortunately the last one with Steve." On 30 September comes the live CD, "Home Grown - Alive in Lugano" in the trade, including the previously unreleased single tracks. Five days before the first anniversary of the death of the charismatic front man, on 5 October in a tragic accident in the United States was killed. "Steve wanted to actually publish the album already in early 2011 - then known, but everything turned out differently," says drummer Hena Habegger (43) in a low voice. "In Lugano has it all began, now located in Lugano closes the circle. The album makes the top 20 memorable years with our friend Steve Lee revived again" says bassist Marc Lynn (47). Guitarist Leo Leoni (45) adds: "The music has allowed us to travel together around the world. And yet there was always something special for us all to return to Lugano. Here we come, here we belong." This rootedness of home fans and also shows the cover of "Home Grown - Alive in Lugano." The CD marks the end of an era of Gotthard, before the band through the next chapter. The successor to Steve Lee († 47) is fixed in the latest fall, "so that we can directly start with the new studio album," says Lynn. A total of 450 singers from South America, Australia, the United States and Europe have applied to the band's three top candidates in the race. "It is crucial that the new front man and music to fit human Gotthard", explains Leo Leoni. "But a Swiss singer would be at our favorite course. Gotthard is a Swiss band - and that should remain so."

 

 

Friday, July 22, 2011

URIAH HEEP TO RELEASE NEW OFFICIAL LIVE CD AND DVD RECORDED IN ARMENIA: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Uriah Heep's Live in Armenia 2CD+DVD package on September 23 in Europe and September 27 in North America. In October 2009, Uriah Heep released their 40th Anniversary 'Celebration' album, containing new studio recordings of 12 of their most successful, classic tracks, plus two brand new songs. This recording heralded an exciting new phase for the band, taking their classic sound right into the future. The band hit the road to celebrate 40 years at the top and opened new frontiers in Eastern Europe, Australia, South Africa, Japan and America. The band has played 53 different countries in total. The band's motto has always been "if the people cannot come to see and hear Heep music, we will take it to them" and based on that when the band was invited to play for the first time in Armenia, they did not think twice and went for it. So when the band agreed they were approached by TV and film crews to document this concert which shows an epic performance and an incredibly strong and powerful audience reaction. "It was unique because it was a first for us, and the fact that our music meant so much to so many people, was just wonderful" says Mick Box. "It cannot get any better than that. There were some technical problems to overcome, as we played on hired equipment, but the emotion of the night won through, and if asked, we would indeed go back and play again". Uriah Heep, who indisputably invented Hard Rock in conjunction with Black Sabbath, Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin, have sold in excess of 30 million albums since their inception in 1969. From their early incarnation as The Gods and Spice, through record breaking tours, gold and platinum selling albums, timeless chart scaling anthems and a fiercely dedicated fan base of worldwide proportions, Uriah Heep can rightly claim to be one of the greatest U.K. Progressive Heavy Rock bands of both the 20th and 21st centuries. "Live in Armenia" will be exclusively released in a glossy digipak 2CD+DVD package and on a limited 2LP gatefold sleeve version (including only the audio portion). Full tracklisting is below: CD1: Wake the Sleeper; Overload; Tears of the World; Stealin'; Book of Lies; Gypsy; Look at Yourself; What Kind of God; Angels Walk With You; Shadow. CD2: July Morning; Easy Livin'; Sunrise; Sympathy; Lady In Black. DVD: Wake the Sleeper; Overload; Tears of the World; Stealin'; Book of Lies; Gypsy; Look at Yourself; What Kind of God; Angels Walk With You; Shadow; July Morning; Easy Livin'; Sunrise; Sympathy; Lady In Black. DVD Stereo mix 2.0 – Screen 16:9; format: NTSC Region Free / Length 100 mins. Enjoy a DVD trailer following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ynz8GlxDiOg.   JOURNEY ON CBS SUNDAY MORNING THIS WEEKEND: CBS Sunday Morning this weekend will feature the story on Journey's Don't Stop Believin'. A preview clip has just been posted to the CBS News website: www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7374051n. YES FINDS SUCCESS ON THE CHARTS WITH FIRST ALBUM IN 10 YEARS WITH TOP 40 DEBUT: Fly From Here Soars to #9 on Rock Charts and Lands at #35 on Top 200 Current Chart Legendary progressive rockers, YES, have released their first album in ten years, Fly From Here.The album bows at #9 on the Billboard Rock album chart and #35 on the Billboard Top 200 Current Album chart, respectively. Released on July 12th through Frontiers Records in the USA, the long-awaited 20th studio album is the follow-up to 2001's Magnification and marks the band's return to working with legendary producer, Trevor Horn. Horn was at the production helm for the band's chart-topping album, 90125 and also sang for YES on the Drama album in 1980. Critics are already crediting the ground-breaking band for releasing their "best work since the '70s" (Paste) and their "ability to still craft a richly appealing soundscape" (The Republican). Yes also recently released the music video for first single "We Can Fly". The video was directed by award-winning filmmaker Ken Horn (BAFTA- and Emmy-Award winner for the BBC series "The Street") and features a guest appearance by Trevor Horn. The video builds upon the existential aeronautic theme developed in the song's lyrics. You can watch it here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKJwXLCnBKs. The band recently kicked off their summer tour on July 4th in Philadelphia. In support of Fly From Here, YES will be performing new music as well as hits from their hugely successful and indelible catalogue of music. The 22-city tour ends August 3rd in Mountain View, CA. Yes is Benoit David on vocals (his first studio recording with YES), Steve Howe on guitars/vocals, founder Chris Squire on bass/vocals, Geoff Downes on keyboards and Alan White on drums. First formed in 1968, YES' remarkable career spans over 40 years and the band has time and again redefined the boundaries of rock music. YES has sold nearly 50 million albums worldwide and continues to stretch the boundaries of progressive art-rock with their symphonic use of sound and innovative musical styles. For more official Yes news and information, go to www.yesworld.com. The Yes EPK discussing Fly From Here can be seen at www.youtube.com/watch?v=CR-DKEcDtt8.   ROCK CANDY GET DELECTABLE: One more new Rock Candy title available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price of £10.99 each for the next two weeks ending on 7th August. Romeo's Daughter Delectable CANDY097 Of All the British melodic rock groups operating out of the UK during the late 1980's Romeo's Daughter were, undoubtedly, viewed as the great white hope; they were the saviours of the scene, the band most likely to succeed. And let's face it they had it all; an astonishing lead vocalist, killer musicianship, superbly crafted songs and a dedicated label. What could go wrong? Sadly this story didn't have a fairy tale ending. The band's debut album was produced by Robert 'Mutt' Lange (Def Leppard, Foreigner etc), and received a tidal wave of accolades setting them up for album #2. But in an effort to work with Lange second time around the band put their career on ice, biding time until the great man was once again available. Time, however, waits for no man, and, after enduring a prolonged hiatus, the band ended up label less with little prospect of Lange returning to the fold. Switching to the independent Music For Nations label, they took the bull by the horns and got back to work crafting a stunning follow up to their critically lauded debut. It is a record stuffed to the gills with choice songs and exceptional vocal performances from Leigh Matty, proving that the band's worth was just as valuable if not more so. That 'Delectable' ultimately failed to secure a foot hold to enormo-dome success was not the fault of the band or record, but more a sign of the times. Yet despite everything it remains one of the most revered albums of the period. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, one bonus track, 3,000 word essay about the making of the album, interview with the band and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track List: 1. Have Mercy 2. Attracted To The Animal 3. Nobody Like You 4. Nothing But love 5. God Only Knows 6. Ready Or Not 7. Treat Me Like A Lady 8. Sugar Daddy 9. Dream In Colour 10. Dancing Slow Bonus Track: 11. Talk Dirty To Me.   MR. BIG ON FIRST U.S.A. TOUR IN 15 YEARS - GET YOUR VIP EXPERIENCE PACKAGE NOW: Get your VIP Experience packages for Mr. Big now - www.rightrockclothingco.com/store/category.php?id_category=25 Each package is $195 per person and includes a ticket to the show. The package includes: • A Concert Ticket (or ticket reimbursement if ticket was already purchased elsewhere) • Meet & Greet w/ Mr. Big • Photograph w/ Mr. Big • Autograph Session w/ Mr. Big • Limited Edition VIP Experience T Shirt • Autographed 8 X 10 • Official VIP Experience Laminate • Set of official guitar picks • MR. BIG Sticker Rightrock will ship out in advance the VIP Laminate, t-shirt, sticker, guitar picks and event outline to the VIP's. The day of the show you meet up with the VIP Host (a member of Mr. Big's crew) who will distribute the tickets and 8 X 10 photos. The VIP Host will then take you to the VIP area and take a photo of you with the band. You also have an autograph / meet time with the band to make it a bit more personal. The Meet and Greet will be before the show. So be the first on your block to be a rockstar and get our VIP with MR. BIG! Mr. Big on tour: July 30 San Diego, CA 4 & B 31 Agoura Hills, CA The Canyon Club August 02 Tempe, AZ Marquee Theatre 04 Santa Ana, CA Galaxy Theatre 05 San Francisco, CA The Fillmore 06 Modesto, CA Xclamation Festival 08 Salt Lake City, UT The Complex 09 Denver, CO Summit Music Hall 12 Chicago, IL House Of Blues 13 Columbus, OH Al Rosa Villa 16 Pittsburgh, PA Trib Total Media Amphitheatre 17 Cleveland, OH House Of Blues 19 Buffalo, NY Town Ballroom 20 Detroit, MI Harpo's 23 New York, NY BB King's 24 Foxborough, MA Showcase Live 26 N. Myrtle Beach, SC House Of Blues 27 Lake Buena Vista, FL House Of Blues 30 Houston, TX House Of Blues 31 Dallas, TX House Of Blues For more information please visit: www.mrbigsite.com. SHOWCASE UPDATED: The CD Showcase has been updated with new previews of: Ilium (Escape Music); David Roberts & Faithealer (Avenue Of Allies) and Bai Bang (AOR Heaven). Check them out. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated once again with the following: - Bad Company - Live 1992-12-13 - New York, Electric Ladyland (great Brian Howe era show) - Chicago - Star Sessions '82 (Live & Interviews) - Maxi Melodic Rock - Volume 3 & 4 (More great extended versions from the likes of FM, Starship, ZZ Top, Gary Moore, Aerosmith, The Cult and more...) Plus the following new Video Clips: Allen Lande - Judgement Day, Extreme - King of the Ladies, First Signal - This City, Foreigner - Can't Slow Down & In Pieces (Live), Giant - Promise Land. Join MRX now. TAXXI PRE-ORDER OPEN: Please don't forget that the Taxxi album Traxx is ready to roll and will be released August 29 - but those that order direct will get it shipped out August 12. It really is a great album for classic AOR fans. See Tuesday's update below for MP3 samples and head to the MRR Store to pre-order.

 

 

Thursday, July 21, 2011

YNGWIE MALMSTEEN NORTH AMERICA TOUR DATES: (New York, NY) - It's been a long wait for American and Canadian fans...but come this October guitar legend Yngwie Malmsteen will make his triumphant return to North American stages with a Fall headlining tour. In support of Malmsteen's latest release, Relentless, the trek will kick off on Thursday, October 13th at New York City's Irving Plaza. Please see below for the itinerary, more dates will be announced shortly. Of the upcoming dates, Malmsteen commented, "I am very much looking forward to playing new pieces from Relentless, as well as Malmsteen classics. Fans can expect the unexpected... I raise the bar with every performance I do and this tour will be no different." In other Malmsteen news, baseball fans will soon get a treat as the guitar legend is scheduled to not only perform his explosive version of the National Anthem, but he will also throw out the first pitch at the Florida Marlins home game against the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday, August 6. October 13th, New York, NY - Irving Plaza 15th, Silver Spring, MD - Fillmore 18th, Montreal, QC - Club Soda 19th, Toronto, ON - Phoenix 21st, Chicago, IL - House Of Blues 23rd, Denver, CO - Bluebird Theatre 26th, San Francisco, CA - Fillmore 8th, Anaheim, CA - House Of Blues 29th, Los Angeles, CA - Club Nokia November 1st, Houston, TX - House Of Blues 2nd, Dallas, TX - House Of Blues 5th, Florida, Ft. Lauderdale - Revolution More info: www.yngwiemalmsteen.com. AN ACOUSTIC EVENING WITH NIGHT RANGER: Noticeboard user Ken posted the set list from Night Ranger's special "acoustic evening with" show at the Soiled Dove Underground in Denver last night. It was: When You Close Your Eyes, 4 In The Morning, Sing Me Away, Growing Up In California, High Enough, No Time To Lose Ya, LA No Name, Goodbye, Don't Tell Me You Love Me, Sister Christian, You Can Still Rock In America. And he also posted a couple of videos on YouTube, which are: Sister Christian: www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3wnUrFoqik and You Can Still Rock In America: www.youtube.com/watch?v=sA2vjytaioo. OVERDRIVE – THE ANGELMAKER HITS JAPAN: Swedish metal band Overdrive have now secured a Japan release for the new 2011 release Angelmaker (Lion Music) through Rubicon Music. As usual the Japanese release will feature a couple of bonus tracks, in this case: Brand New Sinner and Show Your Love, which are only previously available on the limited edition vinyl album The Angelmaker's Daughter (which features six tracks not available on the new CD), released by the band themselves. The LP was released in only 300 copies in three different colours, and only a few copies remain. The exclusive track New Beginning (Arata Na Staato) is also available on the recently released Lion Music Japan benefit CD Embrace The Sun. In related news Overdrive guitarist Janne Stark have recorded guest-solos for up-coming releases by Grand Design and Thalamus and Chris Catena. For further ordering info and band news, see: www.overdrive.se. COLD CHISEL TAKE TO THE ROAD... PLAYING JUST THE CLASSICS: From Undercover.fm: "One of Australia's favourites - Cold Chisel - are back with their biggest tour in nearly 30 years, taking in stadiums from coast to coast in Australia and New Zealand. "We can't wait to get back on the road together", Jimmy Barnes said in a statement. "Every day for years I've had at least one person come up and ask me when Cold Chisel are going to do a proper tour. I'm bloody glad to finally have something good to tell 'em!" The tour comes hot on the heels of a whole lot of their albums being reissued, remastered and sounding bloody great. It's also the first time the band will have played since the passing of their drummer Steve Prestwich. "When the four of us finally sat down to talk about it we realised we all felt the same way," keyboardist and chief songwriter Don Walker said in a statement. "Steve was really keen on seeing all these things happen. We all felt it would have been wrong to just walk away from the plans we'd started together." "At one point we actually thought about calling the tour 'Unfinished Business'," added bassist Phil Small. "After that 2009 gig we'd all quietly decided to try to do something big. To have bailed out just a few months from actually doing it would actually have felt like we were letting Steve down." Replacing Prestwich behind the kit will be the amazing Charley Drayton (Keith Richards and the X-Pensive Winos, B52s, Divinyls). According to a press release, the set list will "feature more than 20 of their classic songs". The band are working on a new record, but there are no plans to release it before this tour, so while you might get a sneak peek at the record, it won't be a full set of songs you're still getting used to. Shows will be in stadiums, amphitheatres, showgrounds and where nothing else is available, their own big top tent. Tour Dates (for Australian readers): October 13 - Newcastle Panthers, Newcastle, NSW 19 - Townsville Entertainment Centre, Townsville, QLD 21 - Cairns Showgrounds, Cairns, QLD 23 - Botanic Gardens Amphitheatre, Darwin, NT 26 - Mackay Showgrounds, Mackay, QLD 27 - Rockhampton Showgrounds, Rockhampton, QLD 29 - Stockland Park, Sunshine Coast, QLD November 5 - A Day On The Green, Robert Oatley Vineyards, Mudgee, NSW 7 - Tamworth Regional Entertainment Centre, Tamworth, NSW 10 - Acer Arena, Sydney, NSW 12 - A Day On The Green, Bimbadgen Winery, Hunter Valley, NSW 13 - WIN Entertainment Centre, Wollongong, NSW 15 - Sydney Entertainment Centre, Sydney, NSW 17 - AIS Arena, Canberra, ACT 18 - Gateway Lakes, Wodonga, VIC 19 - A Day On The Green, Rochford Winery, Yarra Valley, VIC 22 - Derwent Entertainment Centre, Hobart, TAS 24 - Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne, VIC 26 - Sandalford Estate, Margaret River, WA 27 - Belvoir Amphitheatre, Perth, WA 29 - Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide, SA December 2 - TSB Arena, Wellington, NZ 3 - Vector Arena, Auckland, NZ JASON BECKER IS NOT DEAD YET!: Jason Becker is known as one of the most gifted and talented guitar players in the history of music, as all world class guitarists unanimously will confirm. Jason Becker came to prominence with his exciting partnership with fellow musician Marty Friedman and their band Cacophony. Like Paul Gilbert, Vinnie Moore, and Yngwie Malmsteen, both were signed by the prestigious Shrapnel label. After recording spectacular guitar oriented albums, Jason was asked to join the David Lee Roth band, taking over from Steve Vai. Jason has been awarded the Guitar Player Lifetime Achievement Award and there is also a special Jason Becker Courage and Creativity Award. Jason Becker is soon to star in a movie, a documentary about Becker's extraordinary life entitled Perpetual Burn: The Story of Jason Becker. Now in his 40s, his medical condition has remained stable since 1997. Jason is 24/7 dependent from the care he gets from his family and friends; therefore financial support is very important to guarantee Jason. Jason Becker is not dead yet Festival - All kinds of fundraising activities will be organized at this Festival. All proceeds will go directly to Jason Becker. The following artists have confirmed their appearance: Guthrie Govan, Mattias IA Eklundh, Kiko Loureiro, Stuart Hamm, Atma Anur, Michael Lee Firkins, Marcel Coenen, Joop Wolters, Daniele Gottardo and more will follow. In 1991, while recording the "A Little Ain't Enough" album at the age of 21, Jason was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's Disease), and was given less than 3 years to live. Fortunately Jason is still around! Jason eventually lost the ability to speak and now communicates with his eyes via a system developed by his father, Gary Becker. Although his ALS gradually robbed him of his ability to play guitar, to walk, and eventually even to speak, he still remains mentally sharp and, with the aid of a computer, continues composing. Date: Sunday November 13, 2011 Venue: Patronaat (Dommelsch Zaal) Zijlsingel 2 2013 DN Haarlem Doors open: 6PM Start: 7PM Tickets: € 39,-- Online Ticket sales: www.patronaat.nl/tickets/13-11-2011/jason-becker's-not-dead-yet!-festival. Or buy your ticket at 1 of 400 Primera shops, find the nearest shop here: www.primera.nl. Proceeds of the event will go directly to Jason Becker. Donate directly to Jason Becker through PayPal at pat.becker@intres.com. WebLinks: jasonbeckerfest.com / www.facebook.com/JBNDY. STYX DRUMMER TODD SUCHERMAN ON TOURING: Styx drummer Todd Sucherman is a 15-year touring veteran now, but when he first joined the superstar rock group for the 1996 Return To Paradise tour he had never performed on a major tour before. In a new interview with Examiner.com Sucherman shared some of the hard-won experience he's gained over that time, saying, "You're hired to be in the lobby at four o'clock." The drummer is getting ready to release a sequel to his Methods and Mechanics instructional DVD that will focus on giving useful career advice to aspiring drummers, from musical to practical. "I check into a hotel room, as crazy as it sounds, I want to make sure the toilet flushes," Sucherman told writer Sterling Whitaker. "I want to make sure there's hot water and the shower head works. I don't want to get in the shower at 3:15 for a four o'clock lobby call and have the shower head not work. That happened once." Sucherman stresses that the modern-day touring musician must be professional at all times. "The idea is, you're hired to be in the lobby at four o'clock," he observed. "That's what being a professional is. I take my job in that regard very seriously. I have a phobia of being late. I'm always early to everything," the drummer said. "That's how I've conducted my business, and I think others should, too. I think when people are late; they're not respecting my time. That's not being a professional, that's being an a**hole." Styx is currently on a summer tour with progressive rock veterans Yes. The group has just released an EP titled Regeneration Volume 2, which features new re-recordings of some of Styx' past hits. MELOIC BRIEFS: Oney is going to play the Blast From the Past Festival in Canton, Ohio Fri August 19th. First gig since guitarist Mickey Daniels passed away last year, with Bill Patrick on guitar & vocals. Others on the Bill are LA Guns, Jackyl, & The Godz. Keep spreading the good word & thanks. www.nealpromotions.com/clays.htm. I was asked to post this: "We have a petition with the help of Lorraine Lewis to get Femme Fatale on 2012 M3 festival, can you pls let your readers know/? We would really appreciate it." www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Femme-Fatale-Petition-for-M3-Rock-Festival/110116775751506. HALCYON WAY HIT THE ROCK BAND NETWORK: Atlanta, GA - Halcyon Way, Atlanta's premier metal band is bringing their powerful mixture of heavy, punishing-riffs and infectious melodies to the world of video games. Starting this week, the band's latest release, "Building The Towers" will be available on the popular Rock Band Network in the format of playable tracks. Through the next few months, fans will be able to down load a track every two weeks. The first track available will be the chunky-riff-infused "Desecration Day", to be released on this week, on July 15. Rock Band Network is a service that allows artists to make their music available as downloadable content to play on the Rock Band videogame series. Halcyon Way is the newest addition to the always-expanding list of artists on the service. "By making our entire album available on the Rock Band Network, we are giving gamers worldwide an opportunity to play their favorite Halcyon Way songs on Rock Band," said guitarist Jon Bodan. "It's the first time we bring our music to a new medium and we hope to also expand our fanbase by doing that." Halcyon Way released Building the Towers in October of 2010, via Nightmare Records (distributed by Sony/RED). The album, produced by Halcyon Way and Lasse Lammert (Alestorm, Svartsot), features the 10 best songs the band has ever written, superb performances by all involved, including new vocalist Steve Braun (formerly of Italy's Ashent) and guest vocalist Pamela Moore (yes, Sister Mary from Queensryche's "Operation Mindcrime"). Topped by a stunning artwork courtesy of Travis Smith (Nevermore, Opeth etc.), the album comes across as nothing but a masterpiece in the making. The band is currently taking a short break due to guitarist Jon Bodan's health conditions. Jon was diagnosed with cancer last October and is currently undergoing treatment. At the time being, Jon is in full remission and Halcyon Way is already scheduling their return to the stages. They hope to be able to hit the stages again sometime during the fall 2011 to continue to impress audiences worldwide, bringing their sonic assault to the masses. HALCYON WAY is: Steve Braun – Vocals; Jon Bodan – Lead Guitar / Backing Vocals Ernie Topran – Drums; Kris Maltenieks – Bass / Death Vocals; Zane – Rhythm Guitar / Backing Vocals. For More Info On Halcyon Way: www.halcyonway.com / www.facebook.com/halcyonway / www.intromental.com/halcyonway. BYRON NEMETH GROUP'S 'THE FORCE WITHIN' RE-ISSUED THROUGH DIGITAL NATIONS: (18 July 2011 - Encino, CA) Digital Nations Music, a division of world renowned record label, Favored Nations, has re-issued the acclaimed fourth album from the Byron Nemeth Group, The Force Within. Initially released in 2007 via Pacifica Records, The Force Within established Nemeth as a force to be reckoned with and put him amongst the ranks of up and coming guitarists such as Rob Balducci, Dave Weiner, Matthias IA Eklundh, Eric Mantel and Neil Zaza, amongst others. On signing with Digital Nations, Nemeth says, "With so many digital distribution options available to artists these days what I like about Digital Nations is that it has a set of unique qualities that sets it apart from others. Digital Nations has supreme world wide digital coverage and by being a DN artist one gains the prestige of being a part a label in the music industry that is spearheaded by Steve Vai. The press opportunities, radio interviews, endorsements opportunities and personal DN page that being a DN artist brings makes it a logical label for my music to be a part of." Nemeth was bitten by the musical bug at the age of 5 when he first heard The Beatles and was then turned onto the likes of Randy Rhoads, Michael Schenker, Jimmy Page, Steve Vai and Joe Satriani, all of whom influenced his playing, along with Dream Theater, Rush and jazz and classical music. When he was 18 Byron formed his first band, Sacred Heart and played the Cleveland club circuit up to NYC landmarks such as CBGB and The Cat Club. Nemeth began making a name for himself as a guitarist to keep an eye on throughout this time period. On the future Byron foresees working on writing a new metal album with a vocalist. "This new direction will feature lots of guitar driven compositions in the mix with great vocals and a brand new line up for the band," he asserts. "The songs will have great hooks, over the top guitar playing and great singing with thought provoking lyrics that move people; I want the new music to sound very authentic and exciting to listen to. It's time to bring back great songwriting with great playing that's been missing from the scene for a long time." The Force Within can be found on iTunes at: itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-force-within/id440512897 and Amazon at www.amazon.com/Force-Within-Byron-Nemeth-Group/dp/B0055PK5FA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1308853323&sr=1-3. Byron Nemeth's page on Digital Nations is at: digital-nations.com/artists/byronnemeth.

 

 

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

FAMILIAR NAMES COME TOGETHER FOR TAINTED NATION: Already being talked about are the powerful quartet named Tainted Nation. Assembled firstly in his head by Pete Newdeck, it wasn't too long before this aspiration became a stark reality. Drummer of Eden's Curse - Pete had been busily writing and demoing material with friend and also Lionsheart Guitarist Ian Nash, putting together an album of powerful commercial yet modern heavy material. The twist being that this time Newdeck had sung. This material was given an overwhelming thumbs up by friends and music media colleagues to the point where Newdeck and Nash wanted this to take a further route. Having bonded a friendship on the Stratovarius/Firewind/Eden's Curse tour with Firewind powerhouse drummer Mark Cross, Newdeck quickly approached his first choice Cross - Mark wanted in without question. He was overwhelmed by the identity of the music along with his surprise of Newdeck's vocal ability and talents. Pontus Egberg - bassist of The Swedish sensations The Poodles was also enthused by the fresh sound and what this band had to offer. Again he wanted in and this formidable line up was complete. The band announced the line up late last year, with their intentions to complete recording as soon as possible. The debut album F.E.A.R. is just around the corner and already the band is creating interest within the media. Having already given interviews to media and radio stations. Recorded in Athens, Stockholm and Tewkesbury England, produced by Pete Newdeck and mixed by none other than Dennis Ward, who's list of stunning album mixes and production is endless and widely talked about. Say's Pete: 'I feel lucky to have had such jaw dropping contributions to this album-by everyone involved . It has grown into something that we, as a band are extremely proud of'. Press are already likening the identity to Sixx A.M., Shinedown, Bullet For My Valentine along with many past and classic influences, with a strong commercial vane running right through the middle. The band's aspirations are to get out live and start the talking!! 'We wanna show everybody exactly what we have to offer and why we believe so much in Tainted Nation' says Cross. At present Tainted Nation are in label discussions. Watch this space for updates and tour news. WebLink: www.facebook.com/pages/?Tainted-Nation/104131123017437.   DEREK SHERINIAN HEADS TO OCEANA FOR NEW ALBUM: Derek Sherinian's new solo album 'Oceana' is released Monday September 5th by the Music Theories Recordings label via the Mascot Label Group. If this were the 1970's, the heyday of such keyboard titans as Keith Emerson, Rick Wakeman and Jon Lord, Sherinian would be among that elite circle of players who were superstars back in the day when such talent was not only appreciated, but celebrated in popular music. This is, however, 2011, and in this age, Derek Sherinian is the premiere rock keyboardist of his generation, a member of the supergroup Black Country Communion, a former member of Dream Theater, and a solo artist in his own right. Sherinian has played keyboards with artists including Alice Cooper, Billy Idol, Yngwie Malmsteen and Kiss. In addition to being a former member of Dream Theater, Sherinian was also a member of the prog rock band Platypus, and the founder of the progressive fusion metal band Planet X. 'Oceana' is mixed by legendary drummer Simon Phillips (whose drumming credits include Toto, The Who, Jeff Beck, 10CC, Roxy Music). Phillips also plays drums on the entire album. Steve Lukather collaborates with Sherinian on 'Mulholland', 'Euphoria' and 'Seven Sins', while former Planet X guitarist Tony MacAlpine performs on 'Five Elements' and 'Mercury 7'. Steve Stevens is featured on 'Ghost Runner' and the title track, while Black Country Communion band-mate Joe Bonamassa performs on 'I Heard That'. Doug Aldrich (Whitesnake) performs on 'El Camino Diablo', and Jimmy Johnson plays bass on all tracks with the exception of 'Ghost Runner' and 'Oceana', which both feature Tony Franklin. Favouring a guitar heavy rock based approach to fusion ala Jeff Beck, Sherinian's music creates a certain energy that comes through the recordings, setting him apart from other jazz fusion artists. His music also appeals to fans of technical heavy metal. Thanks to his relentless touring schedule with a wide range of well-known artists, Sherinian easily adapts to ever changing musical genres, while always maintaining his signature style.   GOO GOO DOLLS "iTUNES LIVE FROM SOHO" EP NOW AVAILABLE ON iTUNES: July 19, 2011 ­ (Burbank, CA) ­ Goo Goo Dolls today released a brand-new EP titled iTunes Live From Soho, now available exclusively on the iTunes Store. The EP features six songs, including the hit singles "Slide," "Home," and "Notbroken," as well as three other tracks from the band's current album Something For the Rest of Us. It was recorded live at the Apple Store in New York City's SoHo neighborhood in December 2010. In other Goo's news, the band, which is singer-guitarist John Rzeznik, bassist Robby Takac, and drummer Mike Malinin, will perform their new single, "All That You Are" exclusively from the album, Transformers: Dark Of The Moon, live on Good Morning America this Friday, July 22 as part of the show's annual Summer Concert Series broadcast live from New York's Central Park. Transformers: Dark Of The Moon was released June 14. As per usual, USA Harvest will be on the road with the Goos all summer collecting canned food for families in need on all tour dates including the Good Morning America show in Central Park. To learn more go to: www.usaharvest.com. This past May 15, Rzeznik performed with Daryl Hall on his famed series Live From Daryl's House (Click on the link to view!). The show brought together Hall and Rzeznik for a day-long session that included a stellar seven-song set, including Goo's hits, "Iris" and "Slide," both from 1998's triple-platinum Dizzy Up the Girl, with the former also appearing on the City of Angels soundtrack album, where it spent a record-breaking 18 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay charts and was nominated for three Grammys. Hall and Rzeznik also performed a pair of songs from Something for the Rest of Us, "Home" and "Still Your Song." To hear the session, visit: www.lfdh.com. The track-listing for iTunes Live From Soho is as follows: "Slide" "Now I Hear" "As I Am" "Something For The Rest Of Us" "Home" "Not Broken". Goo Goo Dolls will be out on the road all summer-long.   HEAR RONNIE JAMES DIO'S ROCK ROOTS ON 'AND BEFORE ELF...THERE WERE ELVES' RELEASE: Over the years, legendary singer Ronnie James Dio fronted some of the most popular/enduring hard rock/heavy metal bands of all-time, including Rainbow, Black Sabbath/Heaven & Hell, and Dio. But before all of these bands, there was Elf. Described as a "Rock/Honky Tonk/Blues band" a forthcoming release, 'And Before Elf…There Were Elves' will prove that Ronnie could easily handle other rock-related styles. Released on October 11th via the Niji Entertainment Group, 'And Before Elf' will feature twelve previously unreleased tracks (all from 1971), comprised of both live in the studio and live on stage tracks. The album will feature a striking Lenticular/3D/Hologram cover, that when you turn it, you will see two alternating images ­ Ronnie from the first Elf LP, as well as a vintage group shot from 1971. And although these recordings are 40 years old, the sonic quality still passes the test, as longtime Dio engineer Wyn Davis remastered the original tapes. Formed in 1967 in Cortland, New York, The Elves also featured other members that would carve a niche for themselves in the hard rock world! Guitarist David "Rock" Feinstein (Dio's cousin) would go on to front the Rods. Elf would last for a trio of albums, before Ronnie exited the group in 1975, to co-form Rainbow with ex-Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. Ronnie James Dio always had the golden touch as a masterful singer and frontman. And upon hearing 'And Before Elf…There Were Elves,' you'll discover he possessed his one-of-a-kind voice from the very beginning of his career. "And Before Elf…There Were Elves" Track Listing: 1. You Shook Me 2. Stay With Me 3. Four Day Creep 4. Buckingham Blues 5. Wakeup Sunshine 6. Driftin' 7. Smile For Me Lady 8. You Felt The Same Way 9. Simple Man 10. Drown Me In The River 11. Cold Ramona 12.. Little Queenie. For more information, visit: ronniejamesdio.com / facebook.com/OfficialRonnieJamesDio / facebook.com/nijientertainmentgroup. THE STICK PEOPLE UNLEASH DEBUT ALBUM, 'MADNESS' TODAY: Nowadays, it's becoming increasingly hard to find rock bands that refuse to be pigeonholed to a single style. But The Stick People are certainly an exception, as they manage to fuse together elements of hard rock, alternative rock, and punk rock – as evidence by their full-length debut, Madness. Released today, July 19th via EFM Records/Bungalo Records/Universal Music Group Dist., 'Madness' is available for purchase via the iTunes, Amazon.com, and Loudtrax websites. Also, the album's first video, "Think About That," can be viewed on YouTube, or by following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJRzwsmo5NU. There's a reason why the Stick People are so adept at touching upon a variety of styles - its members are rock music veterans, having learned their skills playing with quite a few renowned names. Case in point, guitarist/vocalist Mike Stone has played with Queensrÿche, Klover, Bret Michaels, and Peter Criss, guitarist Bernie Godwin with credits including a track on the latest 'My Name is Bruce' soundtrack with Bruce Campbell, and bassist Billy Close has played with the Drop Kick Murphys and Klover. Rounding out the line-up is lead singer/guitarist/songwriter Stephen D Duffy and drummer Frankie Anthony. And the Stick People themselves are confident they have a winner on their hands with 'Madness.' "We're excited for the release of 'Madness,' says Duffy. "It's been many months in the making and we hope our fans like it as much as we do!" And while the group just came off the road (two solid months of touring from Milwaukee to Houston), the Stick People will be back touring from August to October, so stay tuned for details. 'Madness' Track Listing: 1. Open Up 2. Waiting 3. Madness 4. I Am the Rain 5. Bulletproof 6. Think About That 7. My Everything 8. The Box 9. Hello, Goodbye 10. Flip 11. Matter of Time 12. Trust 13. Misery's Angel. For more information, visit: www.facebook.com/thestickpeople / www.TheStickPeople.com.

 

 

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

MelodicRock Records is excited to announce final details of the next release from the label - Taxxi's 'from the vault' album Traxx. The classic-style AOR album will be released officially on August 29. Pre-orders are available from today - see below for PayPal link or visit the MRR Store. Pre-ordered copies will ship out by August 12 at the latest. So if you want to be the first to hear this cracking album, order now. And as an extra bonus, those that do pre-order will recieve a link to one extra track not on this release...a track that should be very familiar to Taxxi fans.   Taxxi are a British rock band best known for the songs "I'm Leaving" and "Cocktail Queen". The band first came to prominence in the early 1980s with several AOR hit singles and heavy MTV airplay. Scottish-born singer/guitarist David Cumming, keyboardist Colin Payne, and drummer Jeffrey Nead met in London in the late 1970s. Through an association with Kit Lambert (The Who) the band recorded demos and were eventually signed by Berkeley's Fantasy Records. Teamed with producer Phil Kaffel the band recorded three albums for the prestigious indie label. Filling out the trio's sound were session musicians including bassist Randy Jackson, keyboardist Tim Gorman (The Who), guitarists Marlon McClain and Danny Chauncey (.38 Special), saxophonist Steve Douglas and Journey drummer Steve Smith who lent a hand on tambourine on their second album, "States of Emergency". Moving labels in 1985, Taxxi recorded their 4th album "Exposé" with Tom Dowd (Cream, Rod Stewart). In 2001, "Chequered Past", a compilation CD was remastered with participation by the band and their original producer - released by Fantasy Records. Singles such as "Girl (New York City)", "I'm Leaving", "Cocktail Queen", "Still In Love", "Forever" and "The Heart Is A Lonely Hunter" saw the band get airplay in the US and Europe and a build-up in their fanbase. On tour, the band opened in concert for The Police, Triumph, Foreigner, Loverboy and the Motels, and released five music videos. After the late Colin Payne left the band, the duo of Cumming/Nead continued to work on new material following the successful Exposé release. This material would continue in the direction set out by Exposé – more commercial 80's AOR with that Taxxi twist. That material would remain unreleased. Until now. Following an approach by MRR's Andrew McNeice to the band in 2009, the guys dug back into their archives, and pulled out 11 lost gems that now make up the album "Traxx". The material was written and recorded from 1987-1988. To get these songs to the release stage, tapes first had to be baked in a controlled environment to recover the files, before being passed to engineer/producer Jeff Northrup in L.A. to remaster. The result is a bright and rejuvenated set of songs that if released back in the day, would have been classed as Taxxi's best record to date. The songs speak for themselves and the performances are typical Taxxi – highly emotional, instantly catchy and perfectly crafted classic-style AOR. Taxxi is: David Cumming – Vocals, Guitars, Synthesizers (pictured - right); Jeffrey Nead – Drums, Percussion, Backing Vocals (pictured - left). With: Kevin Russell – Guitars, Backing Vocals; Arthur Barrow – Bass, Keyboards; Earl Slick – Guitars (Cupid's Arrow); The Fowler Brothers – Horns (Lust For Gold). All Songs by: David Cumming and Jeffrey Nead except for Writing On The Wall and Never Lived A Dream by: David Cumming, Jeffrey Nead and Jesse Harms. Produced by: Arthur Barrow and Taxxi. The album is dedicated to the memory of Colin Payne. Track Listing with audio samples: 01. Writing On The Wall (4:17) 02. I Just Want To Be With You (3:54) 03. I Want You Back (4:20) 04. Last Of The Red Hot Lovers (4:51) 05. Never Lived A Dream (4:14) 06. One Man One Voice (3:58) 07. Cupids Arrow (4:14) 08. Lust For Gold (4:10) 09. It Ain't Over (4:14) 10. Hot Shot (3:29) 11. Restless Heart (4:26)     xx Let's not stop there though. The long long awaited new Riverdogs album World Gone Mad will be released via MelodicRock Records September 30. The release will feature seven new studio cuts and one live track, so its more than an EP, but also a little short for a normal LP. So it will be priced accordingly. More details shortly. But right now I am pleased to reveal a little audio with samples of 3 tracks from the album! Please check out Riverdogs: - World Gone Mad 02:38 - Big Steel Town 02:36 - Just A Little Higher 03:15   7TH HEAVEN RELEASES POP MEDIA: 7th heaven releases a new all-original CD of 22 songs called Pop Media. This CD is a collection of fun pop rock dance songs that can transcend numerous generations. A great feel-good CD. Pop Media is available on Apple iTunes, on Amazon.com, on 7thheavenband.com and at all shows at the merchandise table. You can listen to the entire CD right now at 7thheavenband.com as well as read lyrics, producer notes and credits on each song. So take a few moments and check out the tracks and let us know what ya think of the new CD on our Facebook page. And if you like a song or two, let others know about it so we can spread our music to everyone. 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. Order now at: www.7thheavenband.com.   OSUKARU LAYING DOWN THE FINAL TOUCHES FOR THEIR DEBUT FULL-LENGTH ALBUM SALVATION: The Swedish / American AOR outfit Osukaru is now laying down the final touches for their debut full-length album Salvation with release by the end of October via City of Lights. During the early stages of the recording there were, once again, some line-up changes which resulted in the new keyboard player Carl Dahlberg and the new singer Chris Tiann. "Well, I know this looks weird" says founder and guitarist Oz Osukaru. "People have different lives and schedules conflicted with contractual deadlines and to the point where Osukaru is right now, our former singer CJ and keyboard player Wachen felt that they couldn't deliver as much as needed to the band. However, since we now have our 4th singer, we really made sure to pick someone who would be in it for real and take this band to the next level. And we finally found that certain someone in Chris." As with the two previous Osukaru releases, Oz Osukaru is doing the album artwork and once again the Swedish model Isabelle Högbacka is featured on it. "The basic idea with the artwork was to combine the landscapes and the feel from our previous two EPs, but updated with some brand new elements to match the album title. But how you interpret the message in it is all up to you. As for Isabelle, we became a great team on the previous EP so when it was time to work on the album cover I asked her to once again feature on it, with splendid result." With the new album being released, Osukaru will hit the road to support it. The first show confirmed is the official release party which will be held at sea, at the Rockbitch Halloween Cruise between Stockholm (Sweden) and Riga (Latvia) October 29th-31st. There will also be a 2nd release party a few weeks later in their hometown of Gothenburg. "We have finally started to rehearse for live shows. The numerous line-up changes made it difficult to enter the rehearsing studio as a full band but now we are hungry and really wanna take our songs to the stage." A new single will be released by September. What song to be released is at this point not yet decided but its cover artwork and title as well as a full album song-list is yet to be announced. Stay tuned for more info!   xx FATE SIGN TO AOR HEAVEN FOR CD AND MBM FOR TOURING: News from Danish rockers Fate: Fate can proudly present our new record company - AOR Heaven in EU and Rubicon in Japan will be releasing our new album Ghosts from the Past that includes 13 new epic Fate songs in November 2011! Fate also have a new booking company: MBM in Germany will take on the world except Scandinavia! Here is the track list for the album: 1. Children Of The Night. 2. Miracle. 3. Seeds Of Terror. 4. Fear Of The Stranger. 5. At the End Of The Day. 6. All That I Want. 7. Follow Your Heart. 8. Daddy´s Girl. 9. Moving On. 10. Murder. 11. The Last Time. 12. I Believe in Rock N Roll. 13. The Other Side. Lineup: Torben Enevoldsen Gui, Jens Berglid Dr, Peter Steincke Bas, Dagfinn Joensen Voc, Mikkel Henderson Keys. The album is being mixed by Jakob Hansen (Volbeat, Pretty Maids, Hatesphere, Raunchy) as we speak. Fate will do a video shoot in September that will be released in October. Be sure to check out our pages for more and updated info: www.fatetheband.com / www.myspace.com/fatedk / www.facebook.com!/pages/FATE/86323562082 / www.reverbnation.com/fatetheband. JOE BONAMASSA TEAMS WITH BETH HART FOR ANOTHER NEW CD: Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Beth Hart, known for her raw and powerful blues-rock sound, wraps her expressive vocals around classic soul covers on Don't Explain, an album that grew out of her friendship with the acclaimed Blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa. The album will be released in the UK and Europe on Monday 26th September by Provogue Records. Produced by Kevin Shirley (Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, Black Country Communion), Don't Explain is an intimate collection of hand-picked soul cover versions, as performed by celebrated artists, such as Gil Scott-Heron, Tom Waits, Etta James and Aretha Franklin. 'Don't Explain' – Album Track listing: 1. Sinner's Prayer (Ray Charles w/ B.B. King) 2. Chocolate Jesus (Tom Waits) 3. Your Heart Is As Black As Night (Melody Gardot) 4. For My Friend (Bill Withers) 5. Don't Explain (Billie Holiday) 6. I'd Rather Go Blind (Etta James) 7. Something's Got A Hold On Me (Etta James) 8. I'll Take Care Of You (Gil Scott-Heron) 9. Well, Well (Delaney & Bonnie) 10. Ain't No Way (Aretha Franklin). Don't Explain perfectly combines Beth Hart's raspy soulful vocal with Bonamassa's unique guitar sound, Kevin Shirley, who has produced Bonamassa's last five albums, reflects on what it was like working with Beth for the first time - "Beth's got a pretty heady voice, very reminiscent of Janis Joplin, she's also got a lot of Etta James in her, but hadn't really accessed it. With this material, there is a gentleness to the way she delivers the most heartfelt tunes that she hasn't shown before. It's very cool, she's done a fantastic job." Bonamassa and Hart had crossed paths on the road numerous times, and played many of the same festivals in Europe. In early 2010, Joe caught a show of hers in London - "It was killer," says Bonamassa - and suggested they do a project together sometime. "I was up late one night, I couldn't sleep. I was playing songs on my iPod from the reissue of Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out, which included all the opening acts from that Stones show," he recalls. "As soon as the Ike & Tina Turner tracks came on, I just said out loud, 'Beth Hart.' I emailed Kevin, saying, 'Let's do a soul covers record with Beth,' and he replied back, 'Actually, that's a great idea.'" Clearly humbled by the recording process, Beth Hart adds "Going into the studio with the level of players there, including Joe of course, I really had to rise to the occasion. I couldn't do my best, I had to do better. That kind of focus was humbling, and it was great. We had such a good time making the record; I listened to all these songs over and over to learn them the best I could. I felt so much growth just by virtue of listening to these amazing singers. I hope some of those chops rubbed off." To back Hart up, Bonamassa assembled the ace band that was heard on his 2009 #1 Blues album The Ballad of John Henry: Anton Fig (drums, percussion), Blondie Chaplin (guitar), Carmine Rojas (bass), and Arlan Scheirbaum (keyboards). The sound evolved into a simmering mix of soul, jazz, rock, and blues, with Hart's vocals confidently in the pocket of each and every groove. "Beth has been an absolute hidden gem," says Bonamassa. "She has a beautiful voice. She's a fantastic singer, a lovely person." WebLink: www.hartandbonamassa.com.

 

 

Monday, July 18, 2011

PREVIEW TAXXI's LONG AWAITED TRAXX ALBUM: MelodicRock Records is excited to finally announce that the Taxxi album of stunning, quality unreleased material is ready to roll. Full details will be announced tomorrow - along with a pre-order link and exclusive bonus download track. But right now - here is a peak inside this great classic-style 80s AOR album. Download Samples of: 02. I Just Want To Be With You / 03. I Want You Back & 06. One Man One Voice.   DEF LEPPARD - R.I.P. JOE SNR.: Recent Def Leppard US Tour Dates have been postponed due to the unfortunate passing of singer Joe Elliott's father. I sent condolences out via Twitter at the time, but I'd like to extend those well-wishes to Joe, his family and the Def Leppard family as a whole. Tour manager Malvin posted this tribute on the DL website. I thought it would be fitting to pass it on here. R.I.P. Joe Snr.: "A tribute to Joe Elliott Sr. - by Malvin Mortimer (friend & tour manager) Joe's Elliott's father ("Joe Senior" to all that knew him well) suffered a significant heart attack in April this year, whilst in ICU he suffered two more attacks. He was very low for a week or so. I was not surprised to hear from Joe a few days later that his dad was making a remarkable recovery. Not surprised because I knew him to be made of old style bricks and mortar, upright, forthright and as tough as nails. He was a gadget maker, he showed Joe how he devised home made radios, model aeroplanes and air rifles amongst other projects, in his spare time. At the hospital Joe discussed the upcoming tour with his recovering father. Joe Senior insisted that his son go ahead and do the thing that had always made him proud. Joe packed his case and departed to start the 2011 tour. When Joe recently heard that his dad's condition had deteriorated severely he had to think seriously about his next move. We had already arrived at the next show when the news arrived. Joe decided to go home to support his father and mother but he insisted on doing the show that night in honor of his father: a tribute to the person who, had he not supported and financed his son and his friends, then Def Leppard, as we know them, might never have been - and we might never have had the pleasure of listening to the music that spans more than 30 years from a group that has survived amidst great challenges and against all odds. That night Joe appeared to be tearful coming off the stage for a change of shirt, at the end of "Love Bites", I checked to see that he was OK…He explained that it was his dad's favorite tune. The next day, I took Joe to the airport and he flew to his father's bedside. A few days ago, his condition worsening, Joe Senior finally succumbed to his increasing illness and passed away quietly in hospital. Joe and his mother were together at the hospital. At the age of 18 Joe had an opportunity to join a band. The band met regularly in Joe's bedroom in the family home in Sheffield, UK- with the full support of his parents. That band came to be known as Def Leppard. In 1978 Joe asked his dad for some help to finance the recording and release of the first few songs written by the young and up and coming musicians. Joe senior put up 150 UK pounds. (at that time, about $500.) They recorded at Fairview studios in Hull, East Yorkshire, it cost 148.50 and with the loose change they shared fish and chips on the way home. (Joe's mother Cindy played guitar and taught Joe his first few chords, Joe Sr. actually recorded, on a primitive cassette device, Joe's first ever song. Joe was eight years old. The song was entitled "Goin' Forever"). Joe Senior will be missed by Cindy, Joe and all of us that knew him." CHEAP TRICK ESCAPE FALLING STAGE: Toronto — The main stage at Ottawa Bluesfest collapsed Sunday night during a Cheap Trick concert as a severe thunderstorm sent the musicians and thousands of fans running for cover. At least five people were injured, one seriously. Cheap Trick's band members got off the stage safely, but witnesses said they were thrown off their feet. "Everyone is okay and we are so lucky to be alive and hope that all the fans are okay too," the band, best known for hits including "Surrender", "I Want You to Want Me" and "The Flame", said in a message posted on Facebook. Video of the Bluesfest site posted on YouTube within minutes of the storm's passing showed a stage that had crumpled and collapsed over electronic equipment. Twisted shards of metal jutted out from the stage, which stood several stories tall before it was destroyed. Concert-goer Leanne Wilson said the stage slowly heaved backwards and caved in. "In less than 10 seconds it was gone," she said. "(Cheap Trick) were playing right until it fell. And then instantly everybody was just running and screaming. I was stunned, I'd never seen anything like that before at a concert." ArticleLink: www.msnbc.msn.com/id/43789406/ns/world_news-americas.   R.I.P. TAIJI SAWADA: Aipan, Northern Marianas (AP) -- A Japanese heavy metal musician accused of becoming unruly with a flight crew has died in Saipan after appearing in court over the incident, authorities said. He was 45. U.S. Attorney Alicia A.G. Limtiaco said Sunday in a court filing requesting the dismissal of federal charges against Taiji Sawada that he had died. Police Commissioner Ramon Mafnas said Sawada was taken to Commonwealth Health Center's intensive care unit Thursday night but he declined to provide other details, according to a report by the Saipan Tribune. Earlier Thursday, Sawada appeared in the U.S. District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands on a flight interference charge. FBI agent Mary Goff said Sawada was arrested July 11 after he had to be physically restrained during a flight from Tokyo to Saipan. Sawada played the bass in the popular heavy metal band X and had recently formed his own band. There was no immediate word from authorities on the U.S. commonwealth on the cause of death. PROG POWER EU ANNOUNCES FINAL HEADLINER: ProgPower Europe's final headliner is now proudly announced - Symphony X from the USA - who will headline the Saturday night. Hot on the back of what is appearing to be their most successful album release, this five piece will be a very popular choice with regulars at the festival and their appearance will no doubt attract interest in ProgPower from new fans. Other recent additions to the festival are Long Distance Calling (Germany) and Subsignal (Germany) which leaves just one slot on the Saturday left which should be one of the forthcoming tour partners of Symphony X. The line up is almost complete and is as strong as ever - seven countries, fifteen bands, three days, no excuses! A check of the website progpower.eu will show you links to loads of accommodation as well as a guide to travelling to Baarlo. It's really easy and today nowhere is really that far. The music speaks for itself. Tickets can be obtained from the same site and have been kept as affordable as possible. Booked so far - Barstool Philosophers, Subsignal, Seventh Wonder, Schizoid Lloyd, White Walls, In Mourning, Long Distance Calling, Symphony X, Sky Architect, Memento Waltz, Kingcrow, Sole Remedy, Mekong Delta, Redemption, - just one more to be named.

 

 

Friday, July 15, 2011

THE MAGNIFICENT MYSTERY TRACK: Time for all to be revealed - this week's Mystery Track is a sneak preview of a new band-project called The Magnificent - put together by Frontiers Records featuring Torsti Spoof (Finland - Leverage) and Michael Eriksen (Norway - Circus Maximus)! The music is described as "very much in the Melodic Rock mood so the more Prog Metal elements from the songwriting and experience of the 2 artists are set aside for this record." An album is due to be released in November, with a video clip of the previewed track (titled Cheated by Love) to debut prior to that. If you have not checked the song out - Download: Mystery Track July 2011. STRAGE WAYS FOR ROCK CANDY RECORDS: Here are the three new Rock Candy titles - all are available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price of £10.99 each for the next two weeks ending on July 31. Additionally, there is an opportunity to score all three titles for £30 during the same period. Strangeways 'S/T' CANDY098 / Not for want of trying, the British melodic rock scene was - post NWOBHM - eclipsed by the great American AOR sound of the early eighties. With bands such as Boston, Foreigner, Journey and Survivor enjoying serious chart action across the great divide, a new wave of melodic British hard rock band tried to muscle in on the action and prove to our American cousins that we could do the job just as well. Enter Strangeways, a Scottish based quartet with an eagle eye on the big prize. Based in Glasgow, the band's ambition was as far reaching as their music, writing and demoing until they found a home with production / management company Bonaire, the people behind popular Canadian pomp rockers Saga. Paired with renowned producer Kevin Elson (Journey, Europe etc) the band cut this, their debut album, in Zurich, Switzerland and finished it in Pete Townshend's Eel Pie and The Kinks Konk studios, London. The results were impressive, attracting musical comparisons to early Def Leppard and receiving accolades from a variety of respected rock institutions. Sadly, however, all was not well within the band; a situation that erupted in vocalist Tony Liddle leaving at a crucial time. Indeed, the band failed to play any shows, resulting in their very existence balancing on a knife edge. Fortunately their management's belief led to the appointment of a new frontman, whilst 'Strangeways', originally issued in 1986, served as an excellent introduction to the band's abilities as superior AOR contenders. Track Listing: 1. The Kid Needs Love 2. Hold Back Your Love 3. Close To The Edge 4. Heartbreak Zone 5. Cry Out 6. Power Play 7. Breakin' Down The Barriers 8. Now It's Gone 9. More Than Promises 10. Hold Tight Bonus Tracks: 11. All The Wrong Reasons (Demo) 12. Hold On (Demo)13. Close To The Edge (Demo) 14. Breakin' Down The Barriers (Demo) 15. Streets On Fire (Demo) Strangeways 'Native Sons' CANDY100 / Strangeways debut album signalled the start of a intense love affair between the band and fans of melodic rock but it was the appearance of 'Native Sons' that took that spark of romance and turned it into an explosive cauldron of red-hot passion. As one of the defining albums of the burgeoning 80s AOR scene 'Native Sons' is recognised as a classic of the genre, a record that should have turned this relatively unassuming band into household names. Formed in Scotland, the band's fortunes had been impeded by a crucial line up change just after the release of their debut album with frontman Tony Liddle exiting. His replacement was Atlanta, Georgia based vocalist Tony Brock, a man who had been carving out a solid career in the US as an in-demand backing vocalist, including work with Kansas. It was Brock who supplied the ingredient that would take them to a level of sophistication that previously they had only hinted at. A voice like an angel, Brock's innate ability to squeeze out the maximum melodic goodness from every track, coupled with his and Ian Stewart's remarkable song writing ability produced a record that connoisseurs of the genre believe easily rivals the best work of Journey, Foreigner and Survivor. Originally issued in 1988, 'Native Sons' is a stunning collection of songs and performances that has dated not one jot. It is arguably one of the top five AOR albums of all time. Track Listing: 1. Dance With Somebody 2. Only A Fool 3. So Far Away 4. Where Do We Go From Here? 5. Goodnight L.A. 6. Empty Streets 7. Stand Up And Shout 8. Shake The Seven 9. Never Going To Lose It 10. Face To Face. Bonus Tracks: 11. Stand Up And Shout / Breaking Down The Barriers (Live). Strangeways 'Walk In The Fire' CANDY099 / Without question Strangeways are one of the most crucial AOR bands of all time. That they were largely British only adds to the astonishing fact that this relatively unknown unit crafted music that would, in the opinion of connoisseurs, rival and in some cases eclipse the work of megastars such as Journey, Foreigner and Survivor. 'Walk In The Fire', the band's third album, continued their path to melodic nirvana, but not without having to deal with numerous difficulties. The band's previous album 'Native Sons' was created in an enormous rush of excitement, but incessant European touring and slow album sales had not generated the expected breakthrough. Signed to Bonaire, a production / management company connected to classy Canadian pomp rockers Saga, the band's relationship with their actual label RCA was deteriorating. An American launch had been botched and the band failed to tour there. Despite this lack of progress, a third album was sanctioned, this time with the band self producing (engineered by Def Leppard associate Mike Shipley) and recorded once again in Switzerland. 'Walk In The Fire', originally released in 1988, continues Strangeways' path of AOR excellence. It is a record erupting with great songs and tremendous performances, whilst boasting a depth that continues to satisfy to this very day. Vocalist Terry Brock is on fire, cementing his reputation as one of the greatest vocalist of the genre, whilst the songs ring with a clarity that has few rivals; a classic for sure. Track Listing: 1. Where Are They Now 2. Danger In Your Eyes 3. Love Lies Dying 4. Every Time You Cry 5. Talk To Me 6. Living In The Danger Zone 7. Modern World 8. Into The Night 9. Walk In The Fire 10. After The Hurt Is Gone. Bonus Tracks: 11. Jackie's Gone (Demo) 12. Big Tom (Demo) 13. Liberty (Demo) 14. The Last Chance (Demo).   xxxx TEENAGE CASKET COMPANY ARTWORK REVEALED RELEASE DATE SET: Best Kept Secret, the brand new official Teenage Casket Company release is set to street August 27th through Jamsync Music. Best Kept Secret is a culmination of Teenage Casket Company's favorite songs from their first 2 CDs "Dial It Up" and "Eat Your Heart Out" and will be distributed through MVD. The CD also features an exclusive bonus track in "Best Friend Is My Radio". All the songs have been Remixed and Remastered with liner notes from Hardrock Haven writer Derric Miller. The band will hit the road in the UK to support the album this Autumn. For more info visit www.jamsyncmusic.com / www.myspace.com/teenagecasketcompany. Tracklisting: 1. Best Friend Is My Radio 2. Cocaine 3. Dial It Up 4. Down On Luck 5. Thank You For Nothing 6. Mirrors & Wires 7. Don't Look At Me Like That 8. Believe In You 9. One Thing You Don't Need 10. Eat Your Heart Out 11. Ain't Got Nothin' On Me.   COMING UP NEXT WEEK: I won't bore folks with the reasons why, but it's been a challenging week work wise. But I think I'm getting close to getting to where we need to be. The re-design of the site has again been all-consuming and again I'm not satisfied that it kicks enough ass, so work continues... By now everyone should have their Infinity and Andreas Novak pre-orders in the mail box. Next up from MelodicRock Records is the trio of releases that seem to have been coming all year - the Taxxi, Riverdogs and Rick Springfield Tribute albums. Work on all three has been going on all week and I hope to have finalized details, audio previews and most importantly - firm release dates early next week. And as of Monday, MRCD8 will hit the plant and should be ready to dispatch to those pre-ordering in 2 weeks. Pre-orders are still open! Thanks for everyone's patience. More Reviews due too! MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - The Cars - Demos & Outtakes (16 stripped back demo tracks...very cool) - Aerosmith - Live 1993 (Full 24 track show, great set list) - Bryan Adams - Live February 15, 2008 (21 tracks and again, another great set list!) - Maxi Melodic Rock - Volume 1 and 2 (25 remixed, extended and expanded classics in an 'extended version' format - some great tracks from Magnum, Noiseworks, Survivor, Heart, Dare, Vixen, Charlie Sexton and more...) Join MRX now and help support MelodicRock.com.

 

 

Thursday, July 14, 2011

AOR HEAVEN CLASSIX - ROUND NINE AND TEN!: The latest releases in the AOR Heaven Classix series are two more classic AOR gems: Peter Beckett and his self-titled solo album of the year 1991, with the addition of 5 previously unreleased bonus tracks. Already out since last month is the self-titled album from Fortune (pre-Harlan Cage) of the year 1985. As usual, all AOR Heaven Classix releases are digitally remastered by Chris Lyne, contain liner notes by Dave Reynolds and are strictly limited to 1.000 copies. They are available via www.aorheaven.com and connected retailers. Due next in the series is Jean Beauvoir's cracking Voodoo X album Vol. 1 - The Awakening with 4 bonus tracks. Release is set for early August 2011.   xx VH1 CLASSIC TO CELEBRATE 'NATIONAL METAL DAY': From Gibson.com: "In case you haven't heard, "National Metal Day" is planned for November 11 (11-11-11), and headbangers of all kinds are ready to go to 11 on this new holiday. VH1 Classic is right there with them; the cable channel is planning a bunch of special programming to celebrate. VH1 Classic will turn the holiday into an 11-day event (from November 1-11), with concerts and specials that feature Black Sabbath, Metallica, Judas Priest and many other metal titans. November 11 also will see the debut of Behind the Music Remastered: Megadeth. But the highlight might be an all-new, 11-part series titled Metal Evolution, which will chronicle the history of all things metal. Episode one will debut on November 11 and focus on proto-metal artists such as Jimi Hendrix, Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin. Subsequent installments will focus on the new wave of British heavy metal, glam metal, thrash metal and more. "Nobody is more metal than VH1 Classic," said Ben Zurier, executive vice president of programming strategy at VH1 and VH1 Classic, in a statement. "Celebrating National Metal Day on 11-11-11 gives us a platform to honor metal artists, and take metal music one step further than anybody has before." WebLink: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/vh1-metal-day-0713-2011/ KANSAS - 10 MINI LP BLU-SPEC CD REISSUES: Ten cardboard sleeve (mini LP) reissues are set to be reissued from Kansas commemorating the band's concert in Japan this Summer. All albums features the high-fidelity Blu-spec CD format (compatible with standard CD players) and 2011 remastering. Comes with lyrics. Part of a ten-album Kansas Blu-spec CD cardboard sleeve reissue series featuring albums "Kansas," "Song For America," "Masque," "Leftoverture," "Point Of No Return," "Two For The Show," "Monolith," "Audio Visions," "Vinyl Confessions," and "Drastic Measures." Pre-order via CD Japan. IT BITES ON TOUR: UK prog/rockers It Bites have just released a new DVD/CD It Happened One Night from the bands www.itbites.com website. The Band are currently writing for there follow up album to the Tall Ships, and it's rumoured to be a concept album, with a current working title of Map Of The Past. The band has also just released the following new UK Tour dates, where they are co-headlining with Mostly Autumn: 14th October Newcastle The Riverside 0191 230 1813 - www.riversidenewcastle.co.uk 15th October Workington Carnegie 01900 602122 - www.carnegietheatre.co.uk 16th October Glasgow The Arches 0141 565 1000 – www.thearches.co.uk 18th October Nottingham Rescue Rooms 0845 413 4444 - www.rescuerooms.com 19th October Sale Waterside 0161 912 5616 - www.watersideartscentre.co.uk 21st October Clitheroe Grand Theatre 01200 421599 - www.thegrandvenue.co.uk 22nd October Holmfirth Picture Drome 0871 230 1101- www.picturedrome.net 23rd October Pontypridd, Wales- The Muni Arts Centre 08000 147111 - muni.rct-arts.org 24th October Milton Keynes Stables 01908 280800 - www.stables.org 26th October Leamington Assembly 01926 523 001 - www.leamingtonassembly.com 27th October Bilston Robin 2 01902 497 860 – www.therobin.co.uk 28th October London 02 Academy 020 8222 6955 - www.o2academyislington.co.uk TUFF HEAD SOUTH: Tuff on tour! Mexico: Sat. July 16th "Faith & Whisky" Mexico City, Mexico w/ Vains of Jenna South America: Fri. August 12th "Animcal Records" In-Store Appearance Sao Paulo, Brazil Sat. August 13th "Inferno Club" Sao Paulo, Brazil More info an US dates at: www.metalsludge.tv/home/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2366&Itemid=42. FACE OFF - JOE MATERA: 'Face Off' is the new original solo instrumental release by Australian guitarist Joe Matera. An energetic rocker and a full blown electric band affair, it features Matera's signature melodic and tasty guitar playing. After releasing two acoustic tracks previously, his original composition 'Travellin' West' in Sept. 2010 and his cover of The Church anthem 'Almost With You' earlier this year, Matera decided it was time to return to his rock guitar roots. "At the heart of my guitar playing, lays a life long love affair with the electric guitar" says Matera. "And I've always believed that to be a well rounded musician, it is important to explore all musical textures and idioms and show different sides to one's personality. After having delved into the world of acoustic guitar on my previous solo releases, I felt the time was right to return to my primary first love; melodic rock guitar playing". 'Face Off' is a high energy, scorching guitar fest, underscored by an addictive melody. Matera's engaging guitar soloing, follows in the tradition of guitar greats such as Cheap Trick's Rick Nielsen, Boston's Tom Scholz, and The Angels' Rick Brewster, all whom peppered their solos with melodic-ism, finesse and style. In fact, Rick Brewster makes a special guest appearance on one of the tracks' guitar solos. "It was a great pleasure to be asked to contribute something musical for my friend Joe" comments Brewster. "And I hope his track gets a good thrashing by a great many music lovers". Written by Matera as well as playing all the guitars, he also engineered and produced the track which was mixed by Craig Pilkington (The Killjoys) at Audrey Studios, Melbourne. Bass duties were handled by Tony 'Demolition' Dolan (Atomkraft, Venom). 'Face Off' is out through Mercury Fire Music and available for purchase on iTunes. The track will also appear on Matera's upcoming EP CD due later this year. Joe Matera Official Website: www.joematera.com.   DRAGSTRIP ON METAL EXPRESS RADIO FRIDAY JULY 15: Dragstrip vocalist Kevan Overend is this Friday's Guest DJ on Metal Express Radio playing his own personal choice of tracks which have inspired him over the years. Tune in on Friday July 15th at 2pm and 8pm UK time / 15.00h and 21.00h CET / 9am and 3pm EST / 6am and 12 noon LA time - www.metalexpressradio.com. The next day, Saturday July 16th Dragstrip will perform a set at celebrations of 6 years of the Unknown Theater at Cheetahs, 4600 Hollywood Blvd, LA. Proceeds from the night go towards funding the theater's next production "Sunset Strip" directed by Chris Covics. From 8pm it's comedy time with guests including Comedy Central's Adam Devine and Ian Bagg. Dragstrip take to the stage at 10pm. Doors open at 8pm, tickets available on the door – Over 21s only. Dragstrip are also featured on the covermount CD included with the current issue of Classic Rock Presents AOR. Their track "Thanks for the Memories" is described by Classic Rock as blending "the flamboyance of Queen and T.Rex at their most rockin', with the decadence and sleaze of classic Sunset Strip rock - true transatlantic brilliance". Classic Rock Presents AOR #3 can be ordered online at: bit.ly/CRAOR3.

 

 

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

YES RELEASE FIRST MUSIC VIDEO IN A DECADE FOR "WE CAN FLY": One of the most influential and ground-breaking progressive rock 'n' roll bands in history, Yes, have debuted the music video for "We Can Fly" the first single from their new album, Fly From Here. The album was released on July 1st in Europe and streets on July 12 in North America through Frontiers Records. This is the both the band's first music video and studio album release in ten years. The video was directed by award winning filmmaker Ken Horn (won a BAFTA and an Emmy for the BBC series The Street) and features a guest appearance by long-time YES producer and Ken's brother, Trevor Horn. The video builds upon the existential aeronautic theme developed in the song's lyrics and can be seen here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKJwXLCnBKs. "Fly From Here" debuted in several national European charts on: # 14 in Germany # 30 in the UK # 31 in Sweden # 39 in Switzerland # 43 in the Netherlands is currently #5 on iTunes Rock Album Charts. Yes is Benoit David on vocals (his first studio recording with Yes), Steve Howe on guitars/vocals, founder Chris Squire on bass/vocals, Geoff Downes on keyboards and Alan White on drums. Their long awaited 20th studio album follows 2001's Magnification and marks the band's return to working with producer, Trevor Horn, who produced YES' chart topping album, 90125, in 1983 and also sang for the band on the Drama album in 1980. The band recently kicked off their summer tour on July 4 in Philadelphia, USA. In support of Fly From Here, Yes will be bringing new music as well as their classic hits to their loyal following. The 22-city tour ends August 3 in Mountain View, CA. First formed in 1968, Yes' remarkable career spans over 40 years and the band has time and again redefined the boundaries of rock music. Yes has sold nearly 50 million albums worldwide and continues to stretch the boundaries of progressive art-rock with their symphonic use of sound and innovative musical styles. For more official Yes news and information, go to: www.yesworld.com / The Yes EPK discussing Fly From Here can be seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=CR-DKEcDtt8. INTRODUCING HOTEL DIABLO: Another new band featuring some well known names has developed. This time it's Hotel Diablo - featuring Rick Stitch/Vocals - Alex Grossi/Guitar - Mike Duda/Bass - Mike Dupke/Drums. Check out their first offering now at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=oE7qsSBuc2c. CHICKENFOOT HEAD STRAIGHT FOR ALBUM #3: From RollingStone: Chickenfoot, the rock supergroup featuring guitarist Joe Satriani, Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith and former Van Halen members Michael Anthony and Sammy Hagar, have finished work on a new album. Though it's only their second record together, the band have named the album Chickenfoot III. According to frontman Hagar, they went with the title because "it's so good, the songs are so tight, it's like we jumped right past having to make a second record." The 10-track disc will hit stores on September 27th, heralded by the release of its lead single "Bigfoot" on August 2nd. The record is said to emphasize arena-sized riffs, but will also feature the Delta blues number "Something Going Wrong" and "Come Closer," a ballad with music penned by Satriani to complement lyrics written by Hagar. The full track listing for Chickenfoot III: "Last Temptation" "Alright, Alright" "Different Devil" "Up Next" "Lighten Up" "Come Closer" "Three and a Half Letters" "Big Foot" "Dubai Blues" "Something Going Wrong". EUROPE ENLIST KEVIN SHIRLEY TO PRODUCE: Europe, Sweden's biggest rock band, confirm their next studio album, slated for April 2012 release, will be produced by the world's hottest rock record producer, Kevin Shirley. No stranger to the crème de la crème of iconic rock records, Shirley's produced albums for Iron Maiden, Joe Bonamassa, Black Country Communion, Black Stone Cherry, Mr. Big and Journey. "We still feel we have one hell of a rock record to make" says Europe's singer Joey Tempest. "Kevin's the man for the job. We love his work with Bonamassa, Black Country Communion, and Black Stone Cherry. He's the real deal. We're ready to do some serious damage." Last week Europe met up with Shirley in Stockholm to discuss the direction of the next album. Based on reactions from the fans and media, Europe's 2009 album 'Last Look at Eden' proved to be the band's most important record since 'The Final Countdown'. "I've been a big fan of Europe's work for many years," says Shirley. "The band is influential and highly underrated. I can't wait to make the upcoming album their most explosive to date." After summer 2011, Europe will finish the promotion of Last Look at Eden tour, and will start to focus their energy on the next album produced by Shirley. "We've toured for one and a half years" adds Tempest. "It's time to write and record some new songs and get back on the road again in 2012." The new material suggests a more straight forward rock approach evident in 'Doghouse' - a new song Europe performed on their recent UK tour. The song is also featured on Europe's upcoming 'Europe: Live at Shepherd's Bush' DVD, released August 2011 on earMUSIC CDs and DVDs. earMUSIC is also about to release a limited deluxe book with pictures be Denis O'Regan. "Live Look At Eden" features exclusive live audio and the stunning performance at last year iTunes Festival in London. Recording for Europe's new album begins in Stockholm on October 3rd, for an April 2012 release. www.europetheband.com.   DOKKEN VS TOOTH AND NAIL: From Gibson.com: "The planned classic-era Dokken reunion now may be off the table, but that hasn't stopped three quarters of the band from getting together to lay down some tracks, both old and new, and taking a little dig at the missing member in the process. George Lynch has told Classic Rock Revisited that he has formed a new band with Dokken alumni Jeff Pilson (bass) and "Wild" Mick Brown (drums) called Tooth and Nail, named after a Dokken album. "That's Dokken without Don," Lynch explained. "The record is called Dump the Chump." Pilson, who now plays in Foreigner, is a very capable vocalist, taking the mic for the brilliant Lynch/Pilson album Wicked Underground in 2005. "When the Dokken reunion was not going to happen we just said, 'Why don't we just do this? This is way cooler,'" Lynch told Classic Rock Revisited. "Many years later, we are doing it and it is just for fun. It is half new material and it is half old Dokken material." Lynch says Tooth and Nail have already started recording, and will finish work on Dump the Chump around the end of the year, after his and Pilson's schedules have cleared." ArticleLink: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/dokken-0711-2011/ LIVE FROM DARYL'S HOUSE SPOTLIGHTS LEGENDARY KEYBOARDIST BOOKER T.: New York, July 12, 2011—Philadelphia soul meets the Memphis blues again when legendary Hammond B-3 keyboardist Booker T. Jones jams with Daryl Hall on the second half of a very special Live From Daryl's House, premiering July 15 exclusively at www.lfdh.com. In June, Daryl and Booker T. were joined by R&B breakthrough artist Mayer Hawthorne, while this month's 44th installment of the Webby and MTV O Music award-winning Internet series, which last year made its broadcast debut on WGN America to impressive ratings, will feature Hall and Jones performing some of their most memorable songs. The Memphis-born Booker T. Jones was honored with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a Grammy lifetime achievement award for his genre-defining Hammond B-3 organ work with the renowned Stax Records group Booker T and the MGs alongside guitarist Steve Cropper, bassist Donald "Duck" Dun and Al Jackson Jr. His new solo album, The Road from Memphis, which was released in May on Anti- Records, features cameos by Lou Reed, My Morning Jacket's Jim James and Sharon Jones. The L.A. Times said, "Jones makes a quietly convincing case that when it comes to soul music, all roads do seem to lead to Memphis." Booker T., who has collaborated with a who's-who of popular music greats, including Ray Charles, Otis Redding, Bill Withers, Rufus Thomas, Carla Thomas, Neil Young, Stephen Stills and Willie Nelson, among many others, had a blast playing with Daryl on the show. "One of the nicest things about performing on Live from Daryl's House is that Daryl has surrounded himself with musicians who can 'hear,'" enthused Booker T. "That is, each one has talent to the extent of being capable of performing as a soloist on his own, not needing to be told the proper notes to sing or play." Daryl and his guest performed a six-song set which included the Booker T. and the MGs classic "Green Onions" and "Down In Memphis," from his new album, as well as such Stax hits as "Born Under a Bad Sign," recorded by Albert King and co-written by Booker T. and William Bell; Eddie Floyd's "I've Never Found a Girl (To Love Me Like You Do)" and William Bell's "Everyday Will Be Like a Holiday." The set concludes with a rousing version of Daryl Hall and John Oates classic, "I Can't Go for That (No Can Do.)." Says Daryl: "I grew up listening to Booker T. and the MGs. It's an absolute privilege to have him on the show and be able to play alongside him. It doesn't get more soulful than that." "I love the 'at home' atmosphere of performing on the show," added Booker T. "Daryl's immediate and extended family stay near and furnish his guests with food, warmth and an audience." The past two years have marked a steady stream of superlatives and recognition for Live from Daryl's House, with Hall receiving a Webby Award for Best Variety series from more than 10,000 entries at the 14th annual ceremony last year at N.Y.'s Cipriani Wall Street before garnering an O Music Award from MTV earlier this year.   KREYSON: "ANGEL ON THE RUN" AND "CRUSADERS" REISSUES ANNOUNCED: Ulterium Records are proud to announce the reissues of the classic Kreyson albums "Angel on the run" and "Crusaders". The heavy metal band Kreyson from Czech Republic released the albums in 1990 and 1992 and both were certified gold in their home country. "Angel on the run" was produced by Rolf Kasparek [Running Wild]. The re-issues will be released on August 5th through Ulterium Records and they both feature new artwork by Felipe Machado Franco [Blind Guardian, Rhapsody of Fire, Iced Earth]. Angel On The Run track listing; 1. Kreyson 04:05 2. Skalp 03:11 3. Deep in the Night 04:29 4. No Blue Skies 04:15 5. Faraway 04:22 6. Angel on the Run 03:07 7. Dreamin' 03:59 8. Golden Ark 03:34 9. I Need You 05:48 10. Fade Out 03:14. Crusaders track listing; 1. Pilgrimage 02:47 2. Crusaders 05:15 3. Commandments 03:41 4. No Bad Thing 04:22 5. Still 04:03 6. Stay a Moment 03:43 7. Forgiveness 03:23 8. Cries 04:56 9. Give Me Hope 03:21 10. The Prisoner 04:17. Click the links below to listen to one track of each album over at YouTube; Kreyson - Kreyson [taken from "Angel on the run"]: youtu.be/Nbjx6opfog8. Kreyson - Crusaders [taken from "Crusaders"]: youtu.be/g-WWJTEBuEQ. Both albums are available for pre-ordering through the Ulterium Records Store: www.ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com / For more information: www.ulterium-records.com.   xx INTHESTUDIO CELEBRATES THE 35TH ANNIVERSARY OF BOSTON'S FIRST LP: Dallas, TX - July 12, 2011. North American syndicated Rock radio show InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the 35th Anniversary of Boston, the biggest selling debut album for the past 30+ years. InTheStudio producer and host Redbeard gets a "one-on-one" interview with the reclusive creative genius, lead guitarist and songwriter of Boston, Tom Scholz, who reveals that he worked in a basement home studio for seven long years to make the demo tape, while the recordbreaking Boston debut was "made on a budget of $1,700!" The success of Boston's debut album may very well have given the band the time it needed to forward its career. Scholz hints, "That album, doing as well as it did, is the only thing that made it possible to do a second and third one....It was only because it sold so well that it was possible to do it and do it again." Redbeard also shares a rare archival interview with the late Brad Delp in which Brad describes life before Boston, meeting Tom, the meteoric success of Boston's debut and the first time he realized his fortune. Delp explains, "When I got home, I had an apartment. I called up our accountant and said, I'm thinking about maybe buying a house, can I do that? My accountant said, 'How many?'" InTheStudio is syndicated on over 50 radio stations throughout North America. The InTheStudio/ Boston 35th anniversary show will air the week of July 11-17. To find out where to hear this show or to stream it online, visit: www.inthestudio.net / Direct Link to InTheStudio affiliate station list: www.inthestudio.net/radio-stations. 97.9 THE LOOP & AMSTEL LIGHT PRESENT, THE FIFTH LEG OF THE LOOP WORLD TOUR: A cool competition for Chicago radio listeners: "We've sent Loopers all over the world, and this time we're sending someone where no Looper has gone before...to see Van Halen in Sydney, Australia! Starting Monday, July 18th, tune into The Loop for your chance to win. When you hear Pete, Pat, Byrd or Walt play two Van Halen songs back-to-back, be caller number 97 when the second song starts and you'll score a classic Loop t-shirt and get qualified for the chance to wear that t-shirt in Australia while you watch Van Halen live! The Grand Prize Trip Includes: Roundtrip airfare for two (2) from Chicago to Sydney Four (4) nights of hotel accommodations Two (2) tickets to the show All necessary hotel/concert transfers WebLink: www.wlup.com/WorldTour-VanHalen.aspx. CRASH DIET CANCEL BANG YOUR HEAD: Crash Diet have been forced to pull out of the Bang Your Head Festival due to their bass player contracting Pneumonia and being ordered by doctors not to perform. Taking their place in the line-up will be Human Zoo. More info: www.bang-your-head.de.

 

 

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Mystery Track time once again! Download this 2 minute MP3 preview of a new upcoming project due in November. Full details revealed Thursday! Download: Mystery Track July 2011. (This is not a Melodic Rock Records title). SEBASTIAN BACH'S "KICKING & SCREAMING" OUT IN SEPTEMBER VIA FRONTIERS RECORDS WORLDWIDE: Sebastian Bach's new solo album Kicking & Screaming will be released on September 27 via Frontiers Records in North America and September 23 in Europe and is produced by Bob Marlette (Black Sabbath, Shinedown, Atreyu, Filter). The album will be available in three separate configurations: jewel box CD, deluxe digipak with bonus track and bonus DVD and double LP gatefold vinyl. The recording features young virtuosic guitarist Nick Sterling and drum pro Bobby Jarzombek (Halford, Riot, Iced Earth), as well a guest appearance by noted guitarist John 5 (Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie) on "TunnelVision". Sebastian Bach has sold in excess of 20 million records worldwide as lead singer with his former band, Skid Row and as a solo artist. Far from just being a multi-platinum recording artist, the singer/songwriter/actor/entertainer has expanded his career over the past decade to include episodic television with a 5-season recurring role on the CW's hit series "Gilmore Girls", starring roles on Broadway ("Jekyll & Hyde", "The Rocky Horror Picture Show") and national touring companies ("Jesus Chris Superstar"), and has appeared regularly on MTV and VH1. Kicking & Screaming track listing: 1. Kicking & Screaming 2. My Own Worst Enemy 3. TunnelVision (featuring John 5) 4. Dance On Your Grave 5. Caught In A Dream 6. As Long As I Got The Music 7. I'm Alive 8. Dirty Power 9. Live The Life 10. Dream Forever 11. One Good Reason 12. Lost In The Light 13. Wishin'. Bonus tracks: 1. Jumpin' Off The Wagon – only available on the physical CD/DVD editions 2. Ain't There Yet – iTunes exclusive. Bach on the web: www.sebastianbach.com / www.facebook.com/sebastianbach / www.twitter.com/sebastianbach / www.reverbnation.com/sebastianbach / www.frontiers.it. Publicity image: Clay Patrick McBride. Cover art designed by Richard Villa.   xx LION MUSIC UPCOMING AUGUST 19 RELEASES: Vargton Projekt - ProgXpriMetal Lion Music are proud to introduce the debut release ProgXpriMetal from Vargton Projekt, a new band based around some of the finest musical talents to have emerged in recent years from Sweden in guitarist Mats Hedberg, Grammy winning drummer Morgan Ãgren and vocalist Bjorn Jansson set for release on 19th August. "ProgXpriMetal" as the title may suggest is a varied and special release that will satisfy the extremist metal and hard rock fan and Zappa freaks too with its wide ranging sound. The seeds for what would become Vargton Projekt started 2006 when Mats Hedberg (BFH) contacted Morgan Ãgren (Frank Zappa/Mats Morgan band) to collaborate together after hearing his drumming on a Fredrik Thordendal (Meshuggah) album. Mats sent some rough demos which caught Morgan's ear and the pair decided to collaborate on an album together. Recordings started 2007 in May at Morgan's "Studio Annanstans" (Stockholm/Sweden) where all drums and basic guitar tracks where recorded. The sessions continued on five other occasions throughout 2008-2010 by the end of which the recordings where ready to be mixed in September 2010 at OSD studios (Bologna/Italy) by Nicola Venieri, and was mastered in march 2011 by Claes Persson at CRP studios (Stockholm/Sweden). The original thought for the album was to be an instrumental CD but Mats had an idea to ask one of Sweden's finest metal vocalists Bjorn Jansson (Tears Of Anger / Ride The Sky) to put some vocals on selected tracks with the result in Mats's own words being "Amazing!". Keyboardist Hans Lundin (Kaipa) was asked to play on 3 tracks and another important element for the sound came from the animal voice of Percussionist Giovanni Imparato (Paco de Lucia) from Naples. Alessandro Gwis contributed additional basic keyboard parts and some electronica stuff which added a further dimension to the music whilst Lars Eric Mattsson performs some guest guitar solo duels with Mats on track 7. Stylistically "ProgXpriMetal" is high output heavy guitar and drum oriented music with modern nods to the likes of King Crimson and Mahavishnu Orchestra. Yet there are also deft moments of subtlety and atmospheric passages all of which manages to sound open and inviting to the casual listener. Vargton Projekt have produced an intoxicating blend of progressive thinking and intelligent design and make "ProgXpriMetal" not only one of the most original releases you will hear in 2011 but one of the most musically satisfying. Full album information, pre-order online and streaming audio at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/progxprimetal.htm.   Elias Viljanen - Taking The Lead + Evil Spirit Live DVD Lion Music is proud to introduce the release of a special edition of Sonata Arctica guitar whiz Elias Viljanen's 2002 debut solo release Taking The Lead. This new special edition re-release sees the original 12 track instrumental tour-de-force packaged with the added bonus of a professionally shot previously unreleased 7 track live DVD entitled Evil Spirit Live which contains material from Elias' 2 solo albums released on Lion Music. The live DVD is something long requested by fans of Elias' solo works and we are proud to be able to introduce this added bonus which allows guitar fanatics worldwide the chance to experience Elias formidable technique live and up close. Some 9 years after original release Taking The Lead is still regarded as one as one of the best debuts of instrumental rock/metal guitar to have emerged in the 21st century from a then unknown guitarist, and Elias has built a reputation that has seen him advance into the upper tier of hard rock shredders founded on the solid foundations of this debut solo release. Fans of highly charged guitar instrumentals will find much to enjoy within Taking The Lead thanks to its heavy dose of melody intertwined with the thrilling guitar flash and virtuosity for which Elias is known. The quality of material saw the album upon original release end up with a top 10 rank in guitar9.com's 2003 end of year best sellers chart. The album even attracted the attention of one Steve Vai who had gotten hold of the album and subsequently sent Elias some positive feedback on the release. The new dual CD+DVD version of Taking The Lead hits the streets on 19th August. Full album information, pre-order online and streaming audio at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/takingthelead.htm.   BLAST FROM THE PAST FESTIVAL: Blast From The Past Festival is being held on Friday, August 19 thru August 21st in North Lawrence Ohio. This is a must be at concert! Confirmed line-up includes: Friday - GOD Z, Cold Truth, Jackyl, LA Guns Saturday - Crack In The Sky, Pat Travers Band, Michael Stanley & The Resonators Sunday - Starz, Blue Oyster Cult, Chuck Negron (formerly of Three Dog Night) and many other special guests. Retrospect Records/Sweet Sounds Stage will be included to accommodate bands interested in playing the festival. For details, please contact Ron at rberman48@aim.com. To view the event, please visit www.nealpromotions.com/upcoming.htm. MELODIC BRIEFS: Praying Mantis, one of the founding artists of the NWOBHM era have released 'Metalmorphosis' EP to celebrate 30 years of their career. Featuring title tracks from their extensive back catalogue which spans over their career and firm fan favourites such as 'Children Of The Earth', 'Praying Mantis', 'Lovers To The Grave', 'Panic In The Streets' and 'Captured City', all re-mastered and featuring Mike Freeland of 'Sanctuary' fame at the helm. www.praying-mantis.com. The Dirty Pearls are a NYC hard rock band who have just debut their first video Who's Coming Back To Who. The guys are fans of this site and hope you folks enjoy this video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=LnDoy6yGIaw&feature=related. www.thedirtypearls.com. Mapex Drums recently conducted a video interview with newly drafted Alice Cooper band drummer Glen Sobel, filmed in Nashville, Tennessee during the recent 'No More Mr. Nice Guy' world tour rehearsal. The video can be viewed at this location: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IgR2ciB6RqA. FULLFORCE TO SUPPORT EDGUY ON TOUR: Fullforce, the Swedish melodic metal band which consists of Mike Andersson (Cloudscape, Vocals), Stefan Elmgren (ex Hammerfall, Guitars), Anders Johansson (Hammerfall, ex Yngwie J. Malmsteen, Drums), CJ Grimmark (ex Narnia, Guitars) and Tommy Larsson (ex Heed, Bass) will support Edguy on selected dates in Sweden and Germany to promote their much acclaimed album "One", which was released on Steamhammer /SPV mid June (release date in the USA/Canada is July 26th). Fullforce on tour with Edguy: 23.09.11 SE-Malmö • KB 24.09.11 SE-Göteborg • Trädgarn 25.09.11 SE-Stockholm • Tyrol 27.09.11 D-Hamburg • Docks 28.09.11 D-Berlin • Columbia Club 30.09.11 D-Essen • Grugahalle "Walls Of Secrets" - Video: www.youtube.com/user/spv#p/u/7/-oBqE5PcUVU.

 

 

Monday, July 11, 2011

VAN HALEN - ALBUM & SINGLE STILL COMING; WORLD TOUR BEING BOOKED: Welcome to Monday folks... My last Van Halen update was rumours and gossip, but this time around I have some Van Halen FACTS for you. Well...as factual as anything ever gets in VanHalenLand, delivered by a known and trusted source close to ground zero - who, up until this point hasn't had any info at all, as they are not in the habit of delivering rumours to me. Let's go... - The new Van Halen studio album has NO release date at this point as it is not yet 100% finished. Yep...they are still working on completing it. John Shanks did his bit and now Ross Hogarth, after working with the band in 2010 is back at 5150 to finish the job. There is a single imminent however, but again a date for that arriving at radio or retail is also not yet firm. I'm told "they" are still working on a final mix for the single. As for a date for the album - I have said all along my money is on October. I'm sticking to that, but with this info, I'd say late October now. No way will the album drop while the band are in Australia and it is desired to have the album out by November because... - Van Halen's US tour will commence in NOVEMBER! - Van Halen's 2011/2012 tour will commence in November and I'm told it is likely that the band will stay on the road thru the next Northern summer (mid-2012) with the tour taking in Asia, South America and Europe (watch for the band to possibly headline some festivals in Europe 2012). That's it for now folks.....short, but concise. Work continues on this album and a single might appear next month. Tour plans are being locked in for a sizeable world tour starting in Australia in September then re-launching in the US in November. Speaking of the Australian dates coming up, the guy in charge of the Soundwave Festival here in Oz (A.J.) that Van Halen will headline has voiced some frustration at dealing with the band over these dates. On his Twitter account (twitter.com/#!/iamnotshouting) the following two messages: - "I must say, for one of the world's biggest bands, Van Halen are surrounded by idiots." and "2 months after announcement still can't get the dates on their site despite daily promises...". REVIEWS UPDATED: New CD reviews added today for: Lionville, Williams / Friestedt, After Hours, Skansis, Electric Boys, Bonfire, Heartland, Sixx AM and live releases from Mr. Big, Whitesnake, Uriah Heep and Foreigner. Read Reviews Now.

 

 

Friday, July 08, 2011

WHITESNAKE LIVE - IN THE CHARTS AND ON VINYL: Whitesnake Live at Donington 1990, released worldwide on Frontiers Records, entered in the CD edition at # 32 in the German official sales charts with excellent Top 100 entries in the UK, Italy and Sweden on the week of release. The DVD edition topped at # 11 in the USA top DVD Music Video Charts and at # 14 in Italy. The album is now available in Europe also in a limited edition 3LP vinyl edition with the following tracklisting: LP1: Side A: Slip Of The Tongue; Slide It In; Judgement Day - Side B: Slow An Easy; Kitten's Got Claws. LP2: Side A: Adagio For Strato; Flying Dutchman Boogie; Is This Love; Cheap An' Nasty - Side B: Crying In The Rain (Featuring Tommy Aldridge Drum Solo); Fool For Your Loving. LP3: Side A: For The Love Of God; The Audience Is Listening; Here I Go Again; Bad Boys - Side B: Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City; Still Of The Night. In North America the release is scheduled for August 23rd. You can enjoy a visual presentation of this lavishly packaged 3LP set following the link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBGTPUGzZFk.   DEF LEPPARD POSTPONE US SHOWS AND ANNOUNCE OZ TOUR: Def Leppard announced today that their upcoming performance at Cincinnati, OH's Riverbend Music Center on July 7, 2011 will be rescheduled due to a family illness. The concert date, with special guests Heart, will now take place on July 27th. Def Leppard regrets the inconvenience and looks forward to returning to the Riverbend Music Center in several weeks. Tickets purchased for the July 7th date will be honored for the new date. Def Leppard have announced their Australian tour dates for October 2011. Details are: 15 - nib Stadium, Perth Tickets: www.ticketmaster.com.au 18 - Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide - www.ticketek.com.au 20 - Sydney Entertainment Centre, Sydney - www.ticketmaster.com.au 22 - Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne - www.ticketek.com.au 25 - AIS Arena, Canberra - www.ticketek.com.au 27 - Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane - www.ticketek.com.au 29 - Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Newcastle - www.ticketek.com.au Support - Heart and The Choirboys. Tickets go on sale from 9am Monday July 18. Reserved Seating and General Admission - $187. JUKEBOX HEROS FOREIGNER ARE INTHESTUDIO: Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of Foreigner 4 - This week North American syndicated Rock radio show InTheStudio celebrates the 30th Anniversary of Foreigner's biggest, the seven million-seller 4. Together with producer "Mutt" Lange, fresh off AC/DC's Back In Black, Foreigner created their career masterpiece on the brink of the original six-piece band "breaking up in the studio", according to Foreigner founder Mick Jones. Former Foreigner 4 singer Lou Gramm tells InTheStudio host Redbeard, "It is the high point of Foreigner". To find out how to stream it online, visit: www.inthestudio.net. ROCKFEST MADRID FINALIZES LINE-UP DETAILS: RockFest Madrid is glad to announce the exclusive performance in Spain of: Reckless Love: Without any doubt Reckless Love is the "next big thing" of this year. After recently releasing their self-titled album, Reckless Love haven't stopped working hard to get their name at the top of the huge stream of hard rock bands coming from the North of Europe. Their new single, "Hot", has been a great success in the Internet and they have been nominated as the Best New band in Finland. Spanish fans have asked them to play in Spain over and over again and finally we'll be able to enjoy Reckless Love, exclusively and for the first time in Spain, at the RockFest Madrid. Lizhard: Coming from Italy, Lizhard have received excellent reviews of their first self-title album in the specialized press. They have opened for artists like Eric Martin, Glenn Hughes or Mad Max. Lizhard will come to Spain to unload their hard-rock inspired in the 80's. Airless: One of the most tenacious hard rock bands from Spain. Airless was formed in 2002 and since then they have released three magnificent albums. They have shared stage with bands like Tyketto or Dare, to name only a few. One of the favorite bands for the hard-rock fans in Spain could not miss this opportunity to play at the RockFest. The final line-up of the RockFest Madrid 2011 is: Friday October 28th: Hard-Wires + Lizhard + Bonfire / Tickets: 27 euros (29 euros the day of the show). Doors open at 18:30h. Saturday October 29th: Airless + Serpentine + Vega + Reckless Love + Treat / Tickets: 35 euros (37 euros the day of the show). Doors open at 16:00h. 2-day tickets: 47 euros (49 euros the day of the show). Tickets for sale at www.entradas.com, Metaltrip, Sun Records and Tipo-Rosa Negra. Venue: RocKitchen (c/Fundadores 7, Madrid) More info: produccion@kreaweb.es / vicalvarockproductions@gmail.com. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Billy Idol - Live From Chicago 2008 (Great full recent show) - Billy Idol - Live Poplar Creek 1984 (Full classic era show) - Bon Jovi - Live on Radio 1984 (10 track Radio Broadcast) - Autograph - Rare Tracks (7 Tracks) Plus the following new Video Clips: John Waite - Shadows of Love, Mr Big - Undertow, Oliver Weers - Crawling Back Again, Ten - Endless Symphony, Unruly Child - Very First Time. Join MRX now.

 

 

Thursday, July 07, 2011

MAGNUM ON VINYL AND IN STUDIO: After the success of this year's studio album The Visitation, Magnum is in the studio right now to rerecord/remix/remaster songs for a very special best of album named Evolution. Coming in November this CD will cover the last 10 years plus a lot more. Stay tuned for more details this month. For all fans of Magnum here is something not to miss. Their albums Brand New Morning and Princess Alice And The Broken Arrow are now available (in the USA/Canada in October) as double gatefold LPs in coloured vinyl. Brand New Morning - blue vinyl Side 1 1. Brand New Morning 6:17 2. It`s Time To Come Together 4:37 3. We All Run 4:53 Side 2 4. The Blue And The Grey 5:54 5. I`d Breathe For You 6:27 Side 3 6. The Last Goodbye 6:28 7. Immigrant Son 5:35 Side 4 8. Hard Road 5:21 9. The Scarecrow 9:50. Princess Alice And The Broken Arrow - yellow vinyl. Side A 1. When We Were Younger 7:00 2. Eyes Wide Open 5:54 Side B 3. Like Brothers We Stand 5:35 4. Out Of The Shadows 6:58 5. Dragons Are Real 5:21 Side C 6. Inside Your Head 6:01 7. Be Strong 5:40 8. Thank You For The Day 5:10 Side D 9. Your Lies 4:34 10. Desperate Times 5:22 11. You`ll Never Sleep 4:57.   xx LESLIE WEST FIGHTS BACK WITH NEW SOLO ALBUM: Legendary guitarist and Mountain founder Leslie West will release the new solo album, Unusual Suspects, on Monday September 19th. The album follows the recent news that West underwent life-saving surgery on June 17th, when his leg was amputated above the knee. While an ordeal such as this would surely deter other artists, West insisted on honouring the 'Unusual Suspects' album release date in September. Released by Provogue Records, 'Unusual Suspects' features West performing alongside an all-star hand-picked line-up of the world's finest guitar players, including Slash, blues-rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa, Black Label Society front man and ex-Ozzy guitarist Zakk Wylde, ZZ Top's Billy Gibbon and Toto's Steve Lukather. 'Unusual Suspects' is West's first album since 2006's 'Blue Me'. "These guys don't just show up to play on everybody's albums," says West on his special guests and the album's title. "They're all stars in their own right, and fantastic players - everyone with their own sound and style, about as far from the usual suspects as it gets." Read the full press release online - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/lesliewest/unusualsuspects.htm.   UPCOMING MASS SHOWS: Mass will be performing live on the following dates: July 23rd @ Auburn Pitts, Auburn, New Hampshire. August 3rd @ Showcase live, Foxboro, MA w/ Cinderella. August 10th @ The Casino Ballroom, Hampton beach, New Hampshire w/ Cinderella. Sept 23rd @ Maddys, Saugus, MA. MASS & Cinderella Show Promo: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MfECitGcK-A&feature=youtu.be. Checkout the latest Interview with MASS's Louis St August from UK's own Cross Rhythms: www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/Mass__The_Bostonbased_purveyors_of_pure_melodic_hard_rock/43532/p1/ For tickets and more MASS info please visit www.massrocks.com. OUTLOUD SINGER CHANDLER MOGEL TALKS LOVE CATASTROPHE: Outloud lead singer Chandler Mogel checked in with Hardrock Haven to discuss the bands brand new album Love Catastrophe; why they went with that track as the title; the making of the video for the first single Waiting for Your Love; playing with Twisted Sister in Greece next week; specific songs like Isolation Game and Someday; upcoming tour plans; and a whole lot more. To hear the interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/chandler-mogel-of-outloud-2/. KARMAKANIC 'IN A PERFECT WORLD' AVAILABLE AUGUST 9 IN NORTH AMERICA: Goldminemag.com the internet home of Goldmine Magazine is hosting an exclusive premiere of the new Karmakanic song 1969. The track is taken from their forthcoming release "In A Perfect World" which will be out August 9 in North America on InsideOut Music. Check out the exclusive stream of "1969" at: tinyurl.com/GoldmineKarmakanicStream. "In A Perfect World" is available for pre-order from CM Distro at www.cmdistro.com/Item/Karmakanic_-_In_A_Perfect_World_-PRE-ORDER-/37728. The North American release includes a bonus track "Turn It Up" (Radio Edit) and a twenty five minute video recorded in the studio, which sees the band performing the track "Send a Message From the Heart" from their previous studio release "Who's the Boss of the Factory". Karmakanic - In A Perfect World: 1. 1969 - 14:40 2. Turn it up - 06:53 3. The world is caving in - 08:58 4. Can't take it with you - 05:42 5. There's nothing wrong with the world - 07:22 6. Bite the grit - 04:57 7. When fear came to town - 09:54 Line up: Jonas Reingold: Fretted and fretless bass/Backing vocals, Marcus Liliequist: Drums, Göran Edman: Vocals, Lalle Larsson: Keyboards/Backing vocals, Nils Erikson: Vocals/Keyboards, Krister Jonsson: Guitars. WebLinks: www.reingoldmusic.com / www.insideoutmusic.com. WARRANT MEMBERS APPEAR ON CAFFINE BOMB: Erik Turner and Robert Mason from Warrant will appear on this week's edition of Caffeine Bomb. Make sure you tune in at 7:00 p.m. EST on Monday, July 11, to 91.7 FM WHUS in Eastern Connecticut, or stream live at WHUS.org. Caffeine Bomb is hosted by Roger Lotring, an author and freelance music journalist whose work has appeared in the pages of Metal Hammer, Metal Edge, Classic Rock, Revolver, Shock Wave, Zero and Burn magazines, and at ESPN.com and CMJ.com. Roger is the co-author of "Full Metal Jackie Certified: The 50 Most Influential Heavy Metal Songs of the '80s and the True Stories Behind Their Lyrics". He is also the author of various CD liner notes, including the Motley Crue box set, "Music to Crash Your Car To, Volume 2." 91.7 WHUS is a commercial-free college and community-based radio station broadcasting from the University of Connecticut. For more information WHUS.org. INTRODUCING PORTUGUESE HARD ROCK VETERANS IBERIA: Portuguese Hard Rock Veterans Iberia have released their new video for the track Angel. Angel was recorded last June in Montijo, Portugal and the song is the first single off the bands third album Revolution released in February. Direct link to YouTube video - www.youtube.com/watch?v=34UxZe_nWXA. Also, to follow the bands new video release, Iberia launches a flaming hotsite located at www.avantegarde-mngt.com/iberia/ as an alternative channel to make a quick connection with the fans all over and where you can watch the brand new Angel video. The band biography is also offered here in both English and Portuguese languages. The design and development was made by designer Jobert Mello from Sledgehammer Graphix (www.sledgehammergraphix.com). Meanwhile, the band's live schedule is as follows: - July 9 – Main Stage of Festas da Baixa da Banheira, Portugal - July 23 – Hard Rock Night, Side B Bar, Benavente, Portugal Iberia's Revolution is now sold out in several Portuguese stores. Exited with the acceptance of the new album the band has separated a very limited amount of CDs to sell in a very particular way. All issues of this limited pack besides being autographed by the band will have an dedicatory made especially for the buyer/ fan, and you also get 3 band postcards. The album price is €10 (+ shipping expenses) and all orders for this matter are to be made via this e-mail: store@avantegarde-mngt.com.

 

 

EXCLUSIVE MELODICROCK.COM OFFER! Download the brand new ManRaze single ICU In Everything right here, right now. DOWNLOAD HERE.   xx Take one of the world's most gifted lead rock guitarists, combine him with the dynamic intensity of an iconic rock drummer, add a soul stirring rhythmic bass player, mix in the experience of selling over 80 million records, achieving 2 diamond albums, breaking & defying musical barriers that changed the course of rock music history & its sound as we know it today, stir in a heap load of spicy bad ass North, East, and West London rudeboy attitude...And you've got Manraze, the electrifying London based alternative dub-punk-rock band formed by Phil Collen, legendary lead guitarist of the world renowned multimillion selling English rock band Def Leppard. This thrashing three-piece also consists of punk forerunner Paul Cook from the revolutionary Sex Pistols, and rhythmic rocker Simon Laffy, bass player from Collen's former hit making glam band, GIRL. After successfully establishing then further cementing their reign as musical ingénues of political rebellion' during the late seventies' UK punk rock scene, the Sex Pistols disbanded in 1978. Aside from being involved with numerous projects & bands, Paul together with fellow Pistols' guitarist Steve Jones went on to release a series of Sex Pistols singles without John Lydon for use in Malcolm McLaren's fictionalized satire of the Pistols story 'The Great Rock n' Roll Swindle'. Throughout the 80's & 90's Paul continued to record and now continues to tour most notably with Edwyn Collins. Also in 1978 Simon's brother Gerry Laffy founded Girl with lead singer Phil Lewis. In 1979 both Simon and Phil joined Girl. The glam rock band headlined gigs in their own right and supported such rock luminaries as Kiss, ZZ Top, UFO, & Ozzy Osbourne. Girl recorded three studio albums releasing Sheer Greed in 1980 and Wasted Youth in 1983. Killing Time was posthumously released in 1998 with two live albums and an anthology following. Phil Collen joined Def Leppard in 1982 during the Pyromania album recording sessions. Pyromania yielded the hits 'Photograph', 'Foolin', & 'Rock Of Ages' among others and was Def Leppard's breakthrough album which turned the band into international rock-n-roll superstars almost overnight. Pyromania sold in excess of 10 times platinum and received a Diamond Award in the US and Canada. Def Leppard went on to create and sell history making albums throughout the decade. And Now…Fast forward to 2004 after the release of countless singles and record breaking album sales found Paul Cook, Simon Laffy, & Phil Collen joining forces to form Manraze, a modern rudeboy mixture of punk, rock, & reggae. The band released the limited edition EP 'Skin Crawl' in 2005 and issued their debut album Surreal on June 3rd, 2008 via VH1 Classic Records. Surreal was released in the US and the UK to rave critical reviews comparing the band to the Police, the Foofighters, and the Clash. The Album…In 2011 Manraze releases their second album aptly titled 'Punkfunkrootsrock' (released on Rocket Science) paying homage to their many musical influences throughout the years. The Music…Twelve fiery, new tracks highlight Manraze's re-emergence onto the rock/dub/soul music scene as 3 powerful musicians who possess the energetic prowess, aggressive live genius, and wide range diversity of prototype artists like Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, U2, Lincoln Park, the Sex Pistols, and many others who have left their indelible marks on musical history.   Purchase the other single Over My Dead Body on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/album/over-my-dead-body/id433910136?i=433910140&ign-mpt=uo%3D4 / www.manraze.com

 

 

Wednesday, July 06, 2011

CLASSIC ROCK AND METAL PODCAST: The July edition of the Classic Rock And Metal Podcast is available for streaming at www.classicrockpodcast.com and for download through iTunes. This month Brad Gillis from West Coast favourites Night Ranger talks about their new album Somewhere In California, their upcoming tour with Journey and Foreigner and how they're having fun getting back to the 80s sound that made them a household name. Simon Wright talks about the Dio Disciples tour currently finishing up in Europe and hopefully starting up stateside in September. He's adamant people understand that the tour is a celebration of Dio's music performed by his band, not some kind of money-spinning tribute act. Wright also talks about his tenure with AC/DC and we hear from one of his earliest bands A II Z. Finally New York's Richie Scarlet (Ace Frehley, Sebastian Bach) talks about the Kiss Army, his work with members of the original Alice Cooper band, how he was at the original Woodstock festival and has been under the spell of Hendrix ever since. David Coverdale talks about the recent Whitesnake Live at Donington 1990 DVD and CD release and there's the usual news, new release and live dates roundup plus music from Night Ranger, Whitesnake, A II Z, Richie Scarlet and new boys Enforcer. HELP GERMAN ROCKERS KHALIDA AND VOTE: Alex, drummer for German rock band Khalida (www.myspace.com/khalidarocks) e-mailed to ask a favor I'm sure you folks can help out with. He says: "We in the final round of an online-voting and we can become the support band for Bon Jovi in two weeks if we win this contest. This Voting has just started and lasts until July 14th. Would it be possible to post a news, that people should enter the contest on the side of German radio station Radio BOB! radiobob.de/bob/radio-bob-sucht-vorband-fuer-bon-jovi-konzert. If people vote for Khalida it would help us a lot to become the supporters for BJ in Mannheim/Germany. You can state, that among all your readers who send a screenshot of their vote to info@khalidarocks.com we would draw one of our CDs. We'll ship it all over the world!" Done! DIO'S DISCIPLES IN MADRID: MetalSymphony.com has uploaded photos of Dio's Disciples July 2, 2011 concert at Heineken in Madrid, Spain. Also available are pictures of support act from Anvil and The Rods. Check it out at this location: www.metalsymphony.com/galeria/thumbnails.php?album=336. Dio's Disciples's setlist was as follows: 01. Stand Up And Shout 02. Holy Diver 03.Don't Talk to Strangers 04. Egypt (The Chains Are On) 05. King Of Rock And Roll 06. Catch The Rainbow 07. Stargazer 08.Neon Knights 09.Straight Through The Heart 10. Children Of The Sea 11. Killing The Dragon 12. Last In The Line 13. Long Live Rock 'N' Roll 14. Man On The Silver Mountain 15. Heaven And Hell 16. Rainbow In The Dark 17. We Rock. SHIPPING UPDATE: Just an update on everything MRR related - all pre-orders for Novak, Infinity and Jimi Jamison have shipped as has everything and anything else that has been ordered from the MRR Store in recent weeks. I hope these packages make speedy journeys to their destinations.

 

 

Tuesday, July 05, 2011

JORN TO RELEASE "LIVE IN BLACK": RECORDED AT THE SWEDEN ROCK FESTIVAL 2010: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Jorn's ultimate Live experience Live in Black a 2 CD / DVD recorded focusing on his original repertoire recorded live at the Sweden Rock Festival 2010 on August 23 in North America and August 26 in Europe. 2010 was a significant year in Jorn's career. Besides releasing a tribute album to his hero Ronnie James Dio, Jorn was invited to perform, together with Glenn Hughes, with Heaven & Hell on their final concert, at the High Voltage Festival in Victoria Park, London. Just a few weeks earlier Jorn appeared at the Sweden Rock Festival, in Sölvesborg and blew the crowd of more than 25,000 fans away. "The special thing with "Live in Black" is that it captures a very rough, uncut and spontaneous moment in the bands history" tells Jorn Lande. "It was a hectic day with many interviews and several tv appearances and I also had to do a short speech and statement regarding the great Ronnie James Dio's untimely passing a few weeks earlier. The whole festival became in the spirit of Ronnie, and it was very moving to see everyone there, including the artists honoring his memory" recalls the Norwegian singer. A new original Jorn album is already in the works and scheduled for an early 2012 release, but till then Jorn fans can enjoy the pure and epic concert performance of "Live in Black". You want Jorn and with "Live In Black" they bring it to you: nothing compromised, modernized or fiddled with! "Live in Black" will be exclusively released in a special luxury digipak 2CD / DVD only and will include: CD 1: Road of the Cross, Shadow People, Below, We Brought The Angels Down, Stormcrow, Spirit Black, The Inner Road, Man of the Dark. CD 2: Blacksong, Guitar Solo (Tore Moren), Tungur Knivur, Guitar Solo (Tor Erik Myhre), Rock and Roll Angel, Drum Solo, Soul of the Wind, Are You Ready, War of the World. DVD Contents: Road of the Cross, Shadow People, Below, We Brought The Angels Down, Stormcrow, Spirit Black, The Inner Road, Man of the Dark, Blacksong, Guitar Solo (Tore Moren), Tungur Knivur, Guitar Solo (Tor Erik Myhre), Rock and Roll Angel, Drum Solo, Soul of the Wind, Are You Ready, War of the World. Bonus Material: Song for Ronnie James (videoclip), Man of the Dark (videoclip). DVD format: NTSC Region Free - Stereo mix 2.0 / 5.1 – Screen 16:9. A "Live in Black" video trailer can be enjoyed following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_8opWXM8Xc / www.jornlande.com. Jorn "Live In Black" line up: Jorn Lande: Vocals, Tore Moren, Tor Erik Myhre: Guitars, Nic Angileri: Bass, Willy Bendiksen: Drums.   xx CONSORTIUM PROJECT UNLEASH 'ENEMY WITHIN' PROMOTIONAL VIDEO: Enemy Within the new video from Ian Parry's new Consortium Project V Species album is now available for viewing at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqFwMVO9Sv4. Wishing to complete his inspirational concept, Ian Parry has written & produced the final chapter from his Consortium Project concept entitled C-V "Species". "Species" is a culmination of brutal and melodic Symfo-gothic-power metal at its best. A classic epic Sci-fi scenario combining a selection of the best musicians in rock & metal and some who have performed on the 4 previous consortium albums such as; Stephan Lill (Vanden Plas), Casey Grillo (Kamelot), Kris Gildenlow (ex-Pain of Salvation) and Niels Vejlyt (Infinty Overture) to newcomers from the gothic metal scene Jens Faber (Dawn of Destiny) and Lene Peterson. The worldwide release of Consortium Project V "Species" on 15th July 2011 will be the 21st album release from Ian Parry celebrating a career of over 25 years in the world of rock & metal. Consortium Project V - Species is already picking up rave reviews with some early selections reading: "Species is the ultimate combination of the strongest songs to date written by Ian Parry, brought alive by commanding performances from some of the best musical talent in todays rock/metal scene. These qualities add up to make this final album the ultimate Consortium Project release" (www.heavymetalcosmos.eu). "Species delivers just what you'd expect from Ian Parry & Co., so if you enjoy massive guitar riffs, soaring melodies, symphonic keyboards, and Parry's leather lunged vocals, there's a lot to enjoy here" (www.seaoftranquility.org) "The songwriting and performances are all first class and the album has an excitement about it from start to finish. All of which adds up to make this essential listening" (www.virtuosityone.com) "The most consistent and impressive set Parry has been involved in since his Elegy days" (www.destinyrocks.com) "Species can only be described as thoroughly powerful and epic metal. Certainly a fitting conclusion to Ian Parry's significant project" (www.dangerdog.com) Consortium Project V "Species" is released via Lion Music on July 15. Full information and pre-ordering at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/species.htm.   MELODIC BRIEFS: French melodic rock artist Fagan will release his pop/rock album Papillon on September 3 via digital outlets. Check it out at: www.reverbnation.com/faganmusic / www.myspace.com/fagan21. BeRock Online Radio Station would like to inform all the melodic /hard rock music world that two brand new interviews were taken from the 2 Great bands! Work Of Art about their new album In Progress: minizine.berock-live.com/html/interviews/pages011/woa.html?tag=result;title;0 and FM band talking about their plans after Metropolis and about their career so far: minizine.berock-live.com/html/interviews/pages011/fm.html?tag=result;title;0. North Carolina rock band Stratocruiser today unveiled the promotional video for the title track to their upcoming release, The Spark. The band partnered with filmmaker Jason Marc Pierce to create the video, pairing the two together for a second time. "We worked with Jason to write an end title song for his award winning horror comedy, Hellphone, and were thrilled that he wanted to help us present the story behind our new record, The Spark," said lead singer/ rhythm guitarist Clay Howard. "The actors he cast, the production and direction all outshined our wildest dreams for a locally produced music video. I think it certainly captures the story and mood of the entire record, not just this song." To view the video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=QC_YfbXuqkg. MATT BLACK TO RELEASE SOLO ALBUM: Serpentine's new frontman Matt Black is currently working on his debut solo album which is due to release early 2012. Matt's influences include the likes of JSS, Paul Rodgers, Danny Vaughn, Myles Kennedy & Lou Gramm so the album is expected to a mixed bag of AOR, Classic Rock & Metal. For those who are not familiar with Matt, he is a 25 year old vocalist from Yorkshire. He first came on the scene in late 2008 fronting the popular A Foreigner's Journey, then after supporting H.E.A.T last year with his old band "Invisible Idols" Matt was spotted by Serpentine's management and joined the band at Christmas 2010. Matt joined Serpentine as their upcoming album was completed so he will only feature on the Japanese bonus track on "Living & Dying In High Definition" but will be the main vocalist on the 3rd album." SCREAM ARENA HITS HARD WITH DEBUT SINGLE, "FOREVER": Rising English hard rockers, Scream Arena have just released their debut single, "Forever" b/w "Another Night In London Town." Taken from their self titled debut album, due this summer through Vanity Music Group, the single (and album) was helmed by Paul Sabu, who has worked with the likes of David Bowie, John Waite, Madonna, Shakira, Kiss and more. Hailing from York, England, Scream Arena take their musical cue from classic British hard rock acts such as Judas Priest, Rainbow and Queen as well as giving a nod to American bands Ratt, WASP and Van Halen. Forging a reputation as a powerful live act, Scream Arena have held support slots with the likes of GUN, Panic Room, The Sign and Terrorvision, amongst others. Forever is available digitally via iTunes at: itunes.apple.com/us/album/forever-single/id428754001 and other legal download sites. MELODIC METAL ALLSTAR-PROJECT WOLFPAKK SIGNS WITH AFM: AFM Records is proud to announce the arrival of the "pack": Wolfpakk, the new melodic metal project of former Crystal Ball vocalist Mark Sweeney and Michael Voss (Mad Max, Casanova), is the newest addition to our roster. Together with 30 (!) high class guest musicians (a.o. current or former members of bands like Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, Whitesnake, U.D.O., Yngwie Malmsteen, Axel Rudi Pell, Gotthard, Glenn Hughes a.m.m.) Voss and Sweeney (who both composed all songs) have created a very special album. And these are the involved guest musicians: Vocalists: Paul Di'Anno (ex-Iron Maiden) Tony Martin (ex-Black Sabbath) Jeff Scott Soto (ex-Y. Malmsteen, Talisman) Rob Rock (Impelitteri) Mark Boals (ex-Y.Malmsteen) Tim Ripper Owens (ex-Judas Priest) Paul Shortino (ex-Quit Riot) Mark Fox (ex-Shakra) Michaela Schober (Tanz der Vampire) Jean-Marc Viller (Callaway) Pearl and Molly Duncan. Bass: Tony Franklin (ex-Blue Murder, Robert Plant) Mat Sinner (Primal Fear, Sinner, Voodoo Circle) Matthias Rethmann (Ex-LeeZ, Silver) Nils Middelhauve (Xandria) Neil Murray (Whitesnake) Barend Courbois (Vengeance) Guitar: Igor Gionola (U.D.O.) Andy Midgeley (Power Quest) Ira Black (ex-Vicious Rumors, Lizzy Borden) Torsten Koehne (Eden´s Curse) Doc Heyne (Biss) Tommy Denander (Dan Reed, Paul Stanley) Nadja Kossinskaja (Peter Maffay) Freddy Scherer (Gotthard) Olaf Lenk (At Vance) George Solonos (Tommy Lee) Keys: Alessandro Delvecchio (Glenn Hughes, Ian Paice) Ferdy Doernberg (Axel Rudi Pell, Rough Silk) Drums: Gereon Homann (Eat the Gun) Wolfpakk will be released on August 26.

 

 

Monday, July 04, 2011

VAN HALEN - NEW ALBUM RUMOUR ROUND-UP: Dear rabid Van Halen fans - if you are looking for a factually infallible, dead on, "here are the facts" news update....this ain't it! But seriously, a news report that does fit that description isn't far away as David Lee Roth tells us to "Get Ready..." (www.davidleeroth.com) and Van Halen actually open up a Facebook page (www.facebook.com/VanHalen). And Alter Bridge/Creed guitarist Mark Tremonti (friend of Wolfgang) starts yakking after sitting in on the trio of Van Halen's playing new songs live in the studio - reporting back that the band used ''old demos for inspiration for new material" (www.vhlinks.com/vbforums/mark-tremonti-new-t52379.html). Plus the band are also hitting to road for the first time since 2007 with dates in Australia in 10 weeks' time. So we know something's happening right? Right! But when are we going to really hear something official and when will we hear the first new Van Halen material since 2004 and the first new album with David Lee Roth since 1983? Soon folks.... What we know is that the album is done and mixed...John Shanks finishing production work on it earlier this year (with other producer names likely to appear inside the album credits.) The rumoured album title is VH '11, 2011 (or Two Zero One One to be precise) and all rumours point to a mid/late September release. A single was again rumoured to hit airwaves this weekend, but failed to happen. What I have previously stated is that I personally believe the new album will be released in October, after Van Halen return home from Australia and a single could likely appear late this month or in August. I am hoping to have some more precise information from a source close to official goings on later this week. Stay tuned... But in the meantime, I was contacted last week by an anonymous source with a summary of rumours and "inside" information they happened to be privy to. Ok....due to the demand from fans wanting to hear about anything Van Halen related to keep them busy while counting down the seconds to hell freezing over (the new album appearing in store), here is a summary of the information I was sent. This is certainly not being printed as gospel or fact, but merely as yet another in the series of much loved Van Halen Rumor Reports that have been printed over the last decade of this band's colourful history. So with that disclaimer in place....here goes folks.... RUMOUR ROUND UP! - Eddie Van Halen was apparently prepared to tour again with no new album, reluctant to produce new songs. David Lee Roth and especially Wolfgang Van Halen wanted to record new tracks. Wolfgang Van Halen finally convinced his father that he didn't want to go out on tour to replace Michael Anthony, with no new material and without David Lee Roth's input. - It is suggested that the music was the main thing in EVH's mind and David Lee Roth was asked only to contribute lyrics. - Seventeen songs were prepared in demo form. One was an instrumental. Fourteen songs were properly recorded. This includes the instrumental. A couple of tracks are likely to be held over as bonus tracks for various uses. Management are currently negotiating with specialist retailers for a deal to release the album, with these bonus tracks possible to make an appearance if an agreement is reached. - Because of distributing/promotion matters, the release date of first single is still up in the air, although it will (apparently) 'definitely' happen no later than 2nd week of August. The album is expected to be ready to ship in September. [I still say October...]. - Only two tracks feature keyboards of any type. One is the instrumental which briefly features piano. The other features keyboards in the intro, and 'lightly' in the chorus. - Although Wolfang Van Halen did not write any of the lyrics to the new album, he had a bass solo he was preparing that he titled "Hurricanes", for which David Lee Roth wrote lyrics with the same working title. It is unclear if this song will be included on the album, but it was recorded in demo-form. - The album title has not been chosen at this point. Many rumours have surfaced... Two likely working titles may be in the running which are "VH '11" and "Two Zero One One". Rumored titles that have not been officially dismissed by band members however are "Mammoth" and "Play". This information has surfaced because of proposed artwork for the new album which at this point features a brown circle on a glass table with a silver and red Van Halen logo emblazoned upon it (the circle which looks like an M&M). There is a rumour that the brown circle is supposed to represent both the "Brown Sound" of Van Halen and also the infamous M&M chocolate candy contract rider of years past. The proposed artwork does not show all edges of the circle due to a possible 'infringement' with the candy-maker. Rather the outer edges of the circle are 'cut-off' by the square-edged artwork. The reverse side of the album jacket features all four members standing by a garden like area shot in a sepia tone. This photo and others were taken in May on the grounds of Edward Van Halen's studio, 5150. Inner booklet/lyric sheets photos were also shot in and around 5150. [Not sure about this folks...but I guess we'll know soon enough...] - Two songs recorded have been selected as singles. One song sounding like an early era Van Halen combination of "Beautiful Girls/Jamie's Crying", and the other song sounding more in the vein of "Unchained"/"Drop Dead Legs" (this one features a very lengthy guitar solo by comparison). - Although no song titles are 'confirmed' at this point, some of the 'working' song titles were/are: "Hurricanes", "Stop Talking" (which is one of the possible first two singles), "Down This Road", and "Who's Looking Back At You?". Other titles have been mentioned, only these four keep resurfacing. So what do you think folks? It could be a rather detailed exclusive inside look at what's to come...or...not! It's a fun read at very least and further heightens the anticipation of the album and official information. Information I'll do my best to bring forth ASAP. But until then, enjoy the speculation! FRONTIERS RECORDS LATEST PROMO: The latest YouTube promotional video for Frontiers Records can be viewed right here:   TED POLEY LET'S LOOSE ON YOUTUBE: And while we are focussing on YouTube, Ted Poley has a brand new single out - a cover of the Michelle Branch track Breathe - from his latest solo album. Ted has filmed a great clip for the song, which you can now check out right here:   MICKEY THOMAS COVERS TOM COCHRANE, PETER GABRIEL, OASIS AND MORE: Mickey Thomas is back with a brand new solo studio album titled Marauder. The all-covers affair is due for release in the USA July 5 via Gigatone Music. The track listing for the album is: 1. Gimme Shelter 2. Sledgehammer 3. Maybe I'm Amazed 4. Champagne Supernova 5. Rain 6. Chasing Cars 7. Across the Universe 8. Supermassive Black Hole 9. Voices 10. Oh! Darling 11. Delta Lady 12. Hollywood Nights 13. Life Is a Highway 14. Moneytalks 15. Tempted 16. Wah Wah. WebLink: www.amazon.com/dp.   REO SPEEDWAGON'S HEARTLAND DVD: Captured in high-definition and mixed in 5.1 surround sound. REO Speedwagon: Live in the Heartland presents Kevin Cronin (lead vocals, guitar), Bruce Hall (bass), Neal Doughty (keyboards), Dave Amato (lead guitar) and Bryan Hitt (drums) performing a full-throttle, 16-song set that spans the band's celebrated 35-year career – from the Number 1 charting "Keep on Loving You" and "Can't Fight This Feeling" to hits from their most recent album release "Find Your Own Way Home". Tracks: Find Your Own Way Home, Take It on the Run, Keep Pushin', I Needed to Fall, Tough Guys, Can't Fight This Feeling, Dangerous Combination, Back on the Road Again, Smilin' in the End, Time for Me to Fly, Don't Let Him Go, Keep on Loving You, Roll with the Changes, Ridin' the Storm Out, Golden Country, 157 Riverside Avenue.   ROBIN ZANDER TURNS COUNTRY FOR SOLO RECORD: Cheap Trick frontman Robin Zander is to release his second solo album November 22. Countryside Blvd. was recorded in Nashville in 2010. Press release: "This unique group of musicians, songwriters, and singers gathered in Nashville last year and recorded 12 songs. In that place and time they have captured a fresh country sound with a combination of musical styles. The songs were written and sung by Robin Zander along with a few classics. The album features Sarah Buxton, Tom Bukovac, Pat Buchanan, Chad Cromwell, J.T. Corenflos, Dan Dugmore, Tim Lauer, Glen Worf, Larry Franklin, Perry Coleman, Robin T. Zander and the Countryside Singers. "I'm hopeful that when people discover this album that it's as fun to listen to as it was to record" states Sara Buxton. "I've always wanted to do a record in Nashville and this is it." says Robin Zander, "To have these musicians of this calibre record my songs for Countryside Blvd. was one experience I won't soon forget. Thanks to all for doing one hell of a record." Available in May on Big3 Records & Tapes.   AFM RE-RELEASES (OUT NOW OR COMING SOON): Avantasia - The classics – finally issued on vinyl! "The Metal Opera Pt. 1" – out on July 29th as 2-vinyl (180 grams) "The Metal Opera Pt. 2" – out on July 29th as 2-vinyl (180 grams) each limited to 1.000 copies! Crystal Ball - the rare first albums re-released! "Hard Impact" (incl. Japan bonus track) "In The Beginning" (incl. Japan bonus track) Out now! Bloodbound "Nosferatu" (+ 2 live bonus tracks) Release date: July 15th Doro "Warrior Soul" for the first time ever on vinyl! Out now: picture vinyl (limited to 666 copies) available. "Fear No Evil" – the newest studio album of the Metal Queen: out soon (July 29th) as limited edition (750 copies) in 180 grams orange vinyl in gatefold sleeve! Sinner "Bottom Line" (new cover- and booklet artwork, 2 live bonus tracks) Out now! Voodoo Circle "Broken Heart Syndrome" - the soon-to-be vintage hard rock classic now available as 2-vinyl (180 grams black vinyl, incl. bonus track) in gatefold sleeve. MELODIC BRIEFS: The Canadian bands Anvil (who were forced to cancel their appearance at the cruise in April this year) and Helix, reunited with all now living members of their classic line-up, are both confirmed to appear at the Sweden Rock Cruise. The ship Tallink Silja Galaxy departs from Stockholm, Sweden on October 6th and makes a round trip to Turku, Finland to return to Stockholm 23 hours later. Four more bands are to be booked and we hope to present their names soon. Testament whom we earlier announced, have unfortunately announced that they are cancelling their entire European tour, which includes the show at the Sweden Rock Cruise. We are working on finding a replacement and hope to present one soon. www.swedenrockcruise.com. Billboard reports: Daryl Hall is in the mixing phase for "Laughing Down Crying," his first new solo album in a dozen years. Hall has been working on the album, which is due out this fall on Verve Records, "for quite a while." It marks his first release since "Can't Stop Dreaming," which came out in 1999 internationally and 2003 in the U.S., and is, according to Hall, "a very aggressive album. It's relatively stripped down. It's got a lot of heart. It deals with a pretty intense emotional landscape, I think, and stylistically I'd call it sort of the box set of my mind. There are elements from the early days of my writing all the way through today." Stonelake's new video can be viewed here: youtu.be/P7godOh946M. There new album Marching On Timeless Tales will be released July 1. DANIELE LIVERANI PRESS OFFICE / OFFICIAL REPORT: Multi-instrumentalist and producer Daniele Liverani (ex-Empty Tremor, ex-Khymera, Genius rock opera, Twinspirits, Cosmics, Prime Suspect), after many years of projects and bands that saw him busy on keyboards is back on the 6 strings for a new instrumental album totally dedicated to the guitar. It's the third guitar album for Liverani, after Viewpoint (Produced in L.A. in 1994 and released later in 1999 by Virtuoso Records) and Daily Trauma (2004/Frontiers). The new album is already written and will be titled Eleven Mysteries. The line-up features new incredible young talents: the Italians Paco Barilla' on drums and Marco Zago on Keyboards, and American bass player Tony Dickinson. The album recording will start in August at Fear Studios, Ravenna, Italy. Daniele says: "These new talents that are collaborating with me for this new album are absolutely phenomenal, both technically and musically, and are definitely capable to offer a fresh sound to my songs and to my come back on the guitar..." Due to this come back to the 6 strings, on a weekly basis, Daniele is shooting and publishing on his YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/dliverani) videos of songs taken from his 2 previous guitar albums. VOODOO HIGHWAY SIGN TO ROCK N GROWL PROMOTION: Italian classic hard rocker's Voodoo Highway inked a management deal with Rock N Growl Promotion. The band's new album, entitled Broken Uncle's Inn is released by the band now and promoted by Rock N Growl. Axel W. of Rock N Growl - "Great to have this young outrageous hard rock band in my roster!" Band: Matteo Bizzarri – Guitar, backing vocals, breaking guitars; Filippo Cavallini – Bass Guitar / Vocals – backing vocals; Federico Di Marco – Vocals and rhythm guitar; Lorenzo Gollini – Drums; Alessandro Duo – Organ, guitar, backing vocals. Tracklist: 1. Intro (Since 1972) 2. Till It Bleeds 3. The Fire Will Burn Away 4. J.C. Superfuck 5. Window 6. Running Around 7. Broken Uncle's Inn 8. Heaven with No Stars 9. Gasoline Woman 10. In Fact It's the Worst. First quotes "Broken Uncle's Inn": Rockoverdose - "Energy, madness, power is the album." Reflection Of Darkness - "The synths come out directly from the 70's and they deliver this I-don't-give-a-flying- fuck feeling, similar to the we-sold-our-souls-for-rock' n roll." BeRock Live - "A style that is defined by most as a perfect cross between the sounds of the '70s Deep Purple and Rainbow, and the issues of most modern bands." WebLinks: www.myspace.com/voodoohighway / www.facebook.com/pages/VOODOO-HIGHWAY/107889722591097 / www.rockngrowl.com. RADIO Z PREPARE TO LAUNCH ALBUM: Next week, on Friday 8th Radio Z will open an special acoustic live with Michael Bormann in Alicante, Spain. Place: The Cure AntidiscoBar / Address: Calle García Morato, 3 Alicante - 03004 (Spain) / Date: 8th July / Time: 22:30h / Free show! On September Radio Z will present the new album in Alicante, Spain with a great Guest Star: Michael Voss. WebLinks: www.facebook.com/RADIOZhardpop / www.radioz.es. HAPPY 4TH AND CANADA DAY: Happy 4th July to all my American friends and Happy Canada Day to those north of the border. This day in 1993 me and my wife were front and center at Canada Day Festival in Ontario, with Van Halen headlining alongside Vince Neil, Alanah Myles, Harem Scarem and others. What a great memory!

 

 

Friday, July 01, 2011

MELODICROCK RECORDS - INFINITY & ANDREAS NOVAK UPDATE: I am sorry to report that once again, there is an unfortunate delay in shipping out the two new MelodicRock Records titles (Novak & Infinity). Both titles were manufactured in the UK and their delivery to Australia has been longer than anticipated. They will arrive mid-next week and will be shipped out day of arrival. Everything has been prepared in order for this to happen. For those interested in the goings on of a small time label: basically I have been experiencing various problems due to changing around some aspects of how MRR operates to help make it profitable. The excruciatingly low value of the US dollar has made business extremely challenging, hence the need to chop and change. This time I moved manufacturing to the UK, which will work out better in the long term, but unfortunately my required units were held up, while a couple of other distributors received their ordered copies early. So while I figure this all out to run better next time, the next titles (Taxxi, Rick Springfield Tribute & Riverdogs) have not yet been re-scheduled. I am happy to say they will be in the next week as I finalize future plans. Thanks as usual for the support and understanding. ALL pre-orders will be in the air next week and then I can move onto scheduling the next releases and perhaps announcing a new title too. While I am at it - something has gone right - the new Jimi Jamison & Jim Peterik Extra Moments +1 CDs turned up today, so they will ship out Monday. Order here if so desired. And more good news - Swedish rockers Degreed scored a Japanese deal and their album Life, Love, Loss is out now featuring 2 bonus tracks: Constant (brand new track) and Bark At The Moon (Ozzy cover). Order via HMV Japan. CD Japan doesn't appear to be stocking it as yet.   xx TRILLIUM - THE NEW METALLIC FLOWER CONCEIVED BY AMERICAN SINGER AMANDA SOMERVILLE: Frontiers Records is excited to present a new and interesting musical project called Trillium which features the talents of the American singer and songwriter Amanda Somerville. Mostly known for her catalogue of projects, studio work, guest appearances and live shows garnered to date with bands like Avantasia, Kamelot and Epica, her most recent endeavors include touring with renowned artist Ian Gillan (Deep Purple) and a duet album entitled Kiske-Somerville with metal legend Michael Kiske (Helloween). Trillium is however something new, exciting and very diverse for Amanda, who describes it "more like an expedition with my musical family to explore and celebrate the metamorphosis I've gone through as an artist over the past several years. Quite simply, it's my new baby". The Trillium name came about since it "symbolizes a trinity because things are always showing up in 3s in my environment and there are a number of triads occurring in this project, as well" tells Amanda. "The name of the album, Alloy, is symbolic and metaphorical. An alloy is a substance composed of two or more metals, or of a metal or metals combined with a nonmetal, intimately mixed. It also means standard; quality; fineness and is an admixture, as of good with evil. I'm a Pisces, so I'm all about duality and combining known elements - sometimes opposing each other - to create something different. Though I've been working myself further and further into the metal scene, I still always feel the need to add an extra element to make it shine, bling, stand out". Musically Trillium is going to be a hybrid of rock and metal: it's riffy, has a heavy hand instrumentally and is quite different from anything Amanda has worked on so far. The creative team on the album includes the acclaimed Sascha Paeth & Miro (Kamelot, Avantasia, Epica, After Forever, Angra etc.) on production, songwriting and performances with the participation of Sander Gommans (ex After Forever) and also features Jorn Lande on a very special duet with Amanda. Amanda's sound is eclectic yet particular, sweet yet raw and commercial yet conventionally-challenged. Singer-songwriter metal with bling. Think Annie Lennox, Doro, Rob Zombie and Sade thrown into a blender and whipped into a frothy concoction. Trillium debut album Alloy will be released worldwide on Frontiers Records in the fall 2011. Watch out for those razor blades. Prosit! WebLinks: www.amandasomerville.com / www.youtube.com/amandasomerville / www.twitter.com/amsomerville / www.myspace.com/amandasomervillemusic / www.facebook.com/amandasomervillemusic / www.reverbnation.com/amandasomerville.   TRACK BY TRACK WITH WORK OF ART: Ahead of next months eagerly awaited Work Of Art release In Progress, I'm happy to present a Track By Track commentary of the new album. And, what's a track by track preview without a couple more audio teasers? Check out Nature Of The Game and Until You Believe. Song By Song Commentary By Robert Sall The Rain - "The perfect opener for this second album. An up tempo rocker packed with guitar riffs, swirling keyboards, and the kind of background vocals only Lars can create. It really sums up what this record is all about right from the start. And I hope it will convince everyone who waited for this album that it was worth the wait!" Nature Of The Game - "This was the last song I wrote for the album . It was written and recorded literary days before we were going into mixing. We knew that we need one more song to make this album feel completed. We had a couple of other songs already recorded but with song, it felt like 'Yes! That's what we're looking for'". Once Again - "A personal favourite of mine. I didn't thought it would end up on the album because Lars & Herman tends to go for the more up tempo songs and usually don't fall for this kind of mid tempo tunes. But I'm really glad they did as I think it's a beautiful song , full of emotion." Never Love Again - "This song was originally written for the WET album. We wanted some "Journey sounding" songs and I wanted to come up with something like "Be Good To Yourself". In other words, an up tempo song with a positive message! In hindsight, of course this song would have been totally wrong for the WET album but it works great on this album. Eye Of The Storm - I came up with basic idea for this song while we recording our first album. I kind of forgot about it but it kept coming back to me so I decided to turn it into a complete song. The intro riff is actually the exact same chord progression as the verse riff for "Whenever You Sleep" (from our debut album) but in a totally different arrangement." Until You Believe - Also written for the WET album and I was really hearing Jeff Scott Soto's vocals in my head while writing it. I tried to come up with something like "Send Her my Love" meets "If He Should Break Your Heart" and I think it turned out quite nicely. The Great Fall - Originally intended for the Kimball/Jamison duet album but when the other guys in the band heard they went "Are you really giving this one away?" And of course WOA is always my first priority so we kept this one for our own record. Like so many other songs on this album, this is also "break up" song but, as I went through a separation myself while making this record, it felt natural to write about it. It´s about that horrible situation when all is said and done and you don´t have to energy to fight anymore. Both know that is over but don´t dare to say it out loud. Call On Me - Yet another song that really captures our sound. To me, this song has a really summerish vibe. The kind of song you want to crank while cruising down Sunset boulevard in your cabriolet ;-) Emelie - One of the first songs I wrote for this album. I was trying to put myself into WOA mode again and I came up with this song. I think it's really classic up tempo WOA sounding song and I stretched out a tiny bit harmonically for the middle section to keep it fresh and interesting. Fall Down - We actually recorded an older version of this song for our first album but it never felt quite right. However, I couldn´t get rid of the chorus. It stuck with me. I sat down at the piano one day and rewrote the verses and all of the sudden, the whole song fell into place. Castaway - I wrote castaway with my friend Anders Rydholm (Grand Illusion). Anders had a verse and pre chorus and I added the chorus and just like that, the song was done. It wasn't intended for WOA in the first place but I'm really glad that we ended up recording it. And oh, the working title for this song was "A touch of Giant"…..go figure! One Step Away - I wrote this song with a big smile on my face and I think it really ends the album on a high note. This song really pays tribute to some of my all time favourite west coast artists such as David Foster, Toto, Chicago and Mr. Mister.   CHICKENFOOT vs VAN HALEN: Chickenfoot have announced the release date for their second album. Still without an official title, it's be put out in late September. The first single, Bigfoot, will be available later this month. www.chickenfoot.us. Meanwhile...there is no hint that a first taste of new Van Halen will hit airwaves this weekend as rumoured. The album release date is also rumoured to be late September, but my money is on October. CLASSIC ROCK PRESENTS AOR - ISSUE 3: The countdown begins! Issue three of Classic Rock Presents AOR goes on sale next Wednesday, July 6. A year to make. More than $1 million in recording costs. Deadlines Missed. Budgets broken. Classic Rock Presents AOR analyses the dramatic birth of Foreigner 4. The third sensational issue of AOR magazine celebrates a very special birthday: the 30th anniversary of the release of Foreigner 4 – the classic 1981 album that brought you such massive hits as Waiting For A Girl Like You, Urgent, Juke Box Hero and many more. Our epic 10-page article tells you everything you need to know about the creation of this melodic rock masterpiece, based around a revealing new interview with Foreigner guitarist Mick Jones. We also talk to former band members Rick Wills and Dennis Elliott; Tony Platt, who engineered Foreigner 4; plus the man who played synthesiser on the album – none other than Thomas Dolby. To bring us bang up to date, we also interview the band's current frontman, Kelly Hansen, and ask him what it feels like singing those classic Foreigner songs today. AOR also comes with a fantastic free CD: Raised On Radio, featuring the very best of the latest melodic rock releases, including tracks by Def Leppard, Night Ranger, Alyson Avenue, Lionville, Airrace and 10 more. Elsewhere in the issue, we find out why Chicago sacked their talismanic frontman, Peter Cetera. We marvel at the the success of hitmaker supreme, Desmond Child. We talk to Richard Marx, Black 'N Blue, Hardcore Superstar, Romeo's Daughter and Eden's Curse. We look at the softer side of southern rock, when bands like .38 Special, Blackfoot, The Outlaws and ZZ Top stormed the singles charts and ruled the airwaves. …And we travel Stateside to the M3 Festival in Maryland to watch the likes of Kix, Jetboy, LA Guns, Firehouse and Whitesnake star in an event we're dubbing 'hair metal's final stand'. All this, plus the latest melodic rock news, album and live reviews (including Download, Z Rock, Sweden Rock and the Journey/Foreigner/Styx tour). Not to mention our regular spotlight on new bands including Katana, Serpentine and Wildstreet. OrderLink: www.classicrockmagazine.com/news/the-new-issue-of-aor-goes-on-next-week.   ALCATRAZZ WORK ON NEW TOUR DATES AND RE-ISSUES: No Nonsense Bookings Proudly Presents: The Store For Music label proudly announces the October 2011 re-release of the first 4 albums by Alcatrazz; "No Parole from Rock 'n' Roll" (1983), "Live Sentence" (1984), "Disturbing the Peace" (1985), and "Dangerous Games" (1986). The artwork of these epic albums will replicate the original vinyl album covers, as well as feature extensive audio and visual bonus material from founder Graham Bonnet's very own private vault. Alcatrazz was originally formed in California, in 1983, by vocalist Graham Bonnet, who was a veteran of Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, with whom he enjoyed a massive worldwide hit with "Since You've Been Gone", before joining the Michael Schenker Group. Bonnet enlisted Swedish guitar sensation Yngwie Malmsteen, whose only work of note up until then had been as a member of Ron Keel's Steeler. After the first two albums releases and a Japanese tour, Malmsteen felt the desire to embark on a solo career, and Bonnet recruited yet another virtuoso player, the ex-Frank Zappa guitarist Steve Vai. Steve in turn absconded after the third album came out, and joined David Lee Roth, who had just left Van Halen. Alcatrazz managed to recruit one more ace axeman when they enlisted ex-Derringer/Alice Cooper guitarist Danny Johnson, with whom the band recorded their fourth album, "Dangerous Games", before the instability of the group's line-up finally took it's toll, and they disbanded. Graham Bonnet went on to record with guitarist Chris Impellitteri, before resuming his solo career. In 2003, bassist Tim Luce introduced Graham Bonnet to guitarist Howie Simon, who at the time was working with vocalist Jeff Scott Soto and the Swedish group Talisman. The trio invited drummer Glen Sobel (Impellitteri) to sit in with them for a few inconspicuous concerts in the Los Angeles area. It wasn't until 2007 however that, liberated from various prior commitments, and encouraged by the invitation to co-headline a sold-out Japanese tour with Joe Lynn Turner, Alcatrazz were back and ready to rock concert stages worldwide. Since their rebirth Alcatrazz have toured Europe in 2009. In 2010, also the year that Jeff Bowders replaced Glen Sobel on drums, they toured Russia and Japan. Graham Bonnet is currently overseeing the re-release of the classic Alcatrazz albums, and, together with the band, finishing writing material for a brand new studio album to be released in 2012. Still radiating that unique and exciting chemistry, Alcatrazz wants to perform their powerful anthems in a place near you. The band are forging plans to tour in the winter of 2011 and bring their high-energy live show, which incorporates all the band's classics, as well as highlights from Graham Bonnet's years with Rainbow, Michael Schenker and Impellitteri, back to Europe. The return of Graham Bonnet and accomplices to the scene of the crime proves there really is no parole from rock 'n' roll! The Store For Music Ltd. www.thestoreformusic.com / Marketed and distributed by Mausoleum Records www.mausoleum-records.com. AhORa ROCK PODCAST #9 NOW ONLINE: The latest issue AhORa ROCK is now online at www.rocktopia.net. Join your Mistress of Melody, the irresistible Pilar Sanchez, for songs from Work of Art, Toby Hitchcock, Shakra, Black County Communion, Status Quo, Alyson Avenue, Bai Bang, Lionville, Rob Moratti and Outloud, amongst others. Free to download and listen to at your leisure, or stream online, this is the perfect 60 minutes of AOR/Melodic Rock to complete your day. JOHN WAITE REMINICES OVER THE BABYS: John Waite is featured in the new issue of Classic Rock Magazine. From: johnwaitethegreatest.web-log.nl "The interview tells about the fond memories that John has when meeting Adrian Millar and Michael Corby for the first time in a London pub called Richard Steele. Adrian and Mike who founded The Babys. About the efforts to find a good lead singer for The Babys cause ''Mike could not sing and could not write songs''. Tony Brock who was in a band called Strider, and that Wally was the last one to audition, John felt right away good about him. John honours the late Adrian Millar: The Babys would not have existed without his vision. The Babys who were living on a wage of 200 dollars a week, during the success of Head First! Also the increasing irritation in the band between John Waite and Mike Corby, which let to the departure of Michael Corby." CD SHOWCASE UPDATE: CD Showcase has been updated with some new Independent releases I recommend you check out: Dust And Bones, Guru & John Pratt. And 3 new releases from Frontiers Records: Airrace, John Wetton & Yes. Check them out now. MRX UPDATE: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Cinderella - Original Demo's Volume 1 (20 classics from the early days) - Lorien - Demos (Swe 90)(3 Tracks) - Outside Edge (UK) - Demos 88 (3 Tracks) - Pairadice - Demos (US 88) (3 Tracks) - Runaway Stray - Demos (UK 89)(4 Tracks) - Radioux City - Demos (US 90)(3 Tracks) Plus the following new video clips: Whitesnake - Love Will Set You Free; Eden's Curse - No Holy Man; Mr Big - Smoke On the Water (Live Budokan); Ozzy Osbourne - Life Won't Wait; Slash - Back From Cali and Bad Sister - Surrender. Join MRX now and help support MelodicRock.com.

 

 

Thursday, June 30, 2011

GUITARIST GEORGE LYNCH ANNOUNCES LYNCH MOB U.S. TOUR DATES: George Lynch, the charismatic lead guitarist for Dokken, and leader of his own dual rock bands, Lynch Mob and Souls of We, announces the summer U.S. tour with the re-formed Lynch Mob beginning on July 29 in Houston, TX and finishing in late August on West Coast - with more dates to be announced shortly. As previously announced, Lynch is releasing his next solo album, Kill All Control, on July 19 through Rocket Science, Inc. This much-anticipated album is the eleventh in his nearly twenty year career. It began as a follow-up to the Souls of We debut, Let The Truth Be Known, however, Lynch quickly realized the project was taking on a new direction with the addition of Powerman 5000 drummer, Adrian Ost. In collaboration with Souls of We singer, London LeGrand (Brides of Destruction), Lynch noted that, "the creative juices just flowed and we wrote most of the CD in 10 days." Kill All Control combines many of Lynch's various styles and histories, including a reflection back to his earlier days, which spawned a follow up to the instrumental Dokken track, "Mr.Scary", called "Son Of Scary", featuring Fred Coury of Cinderella on Drums. Additional guests on the album include a variety of well-known singers; Will Marten (Earshot), Marc Torien (Bullet Boys), and Keith St. John (Montrose) all joined in on the new album. Lynch hopes he's created an "eclectic listening experience for all my fans." In 2009, Lynch re-formed Lynch Mob and released Smoke and Mirrors, which resulted in an extended tour and the reuniting of the band's original line-up, to the delight of many fans. Lynch Mob is currently working on a new album, due out later this year. Lynch came to fame in the 1980s through his work as the lead guitarist in the band Dokken. Dokken had a string of successful platinum albums including Under Lock and Key and Back for The Attack, both of which featured Lynch's inventive and intricate guitar work. LYNCH MOB Tour Dates: July 29 Houston, Tx The Flamingo Room July 30 Oklahoma City, Ok Samurai's July 31 Dallas, Tx Trees August 3 Buford, Ga 37 Main August 4 Daytona Beach, Fl Sickboys August 6 Ft. Lauderdale, Fl Culture Room August 10 Indianapolis, In The Rock House August 11 Westland, Mi Token Lounge August 12 Bolingbrook, Il Tailgater's August 13 Columbus, Oh Alrosa Villa (With Mr. Big) August 14 Nashville, Tn 12th And Porter August 25 Gilroy, Ca 9 Lives August 27 Orangevale, Ca The Boardwalk More dates TBA. CHRIS LYNE (SOUL DOCTOR) - IN SEARCH OF A NEW CHALLENGE: Soul Doctor guitarist Chris Lyne is currently working on new songs for a side project. Musically mainly influenced by the bluesy classic Hard Rock of the 70's and early 80's, Chris is currently looking for a suitable singer. Interested vocalists may send their application incl. bio, picture and appropriate links to significant sound clips of his voice to the band's management at info@germusica.com. WebLinks: www.chrislyne.com / www.myspace.com/chrislyne / www.facebook.com/chrislyne.rocks. FREEDOM CALL WILL TOUR THE UK IN NOVEMBER 2011: On the wings of their much acclaimed Legend Of The Shadowking album and their latest DVD release Live In Hellvetia (which charted high in Germany, Sweden and Finland) German melodic metal band Freedom Call announce 6 gigs in the UK: 18.11.2011 London - Underworld 19.11.2011 Nottingham - MC Ballroom 20.11.2011 Wakefield - Snooty Fox 21.11.2011 Newcastle - Trillians 22.11.2011 Grimsby - Yardbirds 23.11.2011 Birmingham - Roadhouse Link for the DVD trailer: www.youtube.com/user/spv#p/u/11/6ob24d6v8gw. SNAKECHARMER TO PAY TRIBUTE TO WHITESNAKE CLASSICS: Six of the UK's most highly-esteemed and experienced rock musicians have joined forces to create Snakecharmer. Original Whitesnake members Micky Moody and Neil Murray have teamed up with Laurie Wisefield (Wishbone Ash), Harry James (Thunder, Magnum), Adam Wakeman (Ozzy Osbourne) and Chris Ousey (Heartland) 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, Snakecharmer are the genuine article. The list of world-class bands and musicians that the members of Snakecharmer 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. Micky Moody - guitar, slide guitar, vocals; Neil Murray - bass; Laurie Wisefield - guitar, vocals; Harry James - drums, vocals; Adam Wakeman - keyboards, vocals; Chris Ousey - lead vocals. WebLink: www.snakecharmer.org. X OPUS NEW ALBUM ON MAGNA CARTA: The Epiphany, the debut CD from the symphonic metal band X Opus, is a celestial blend of enigmatic lyrical threads and layered neoclassical metal. Tracks such as "Terrified", "Forsaken" "On Top of the World", "Pharaohs of Lies" and "In the Heavens" are haunting yet radiant musical vignettes, imbued with the power of spiritual transformation. While traces of Hendrix, Symphony X and J.S. Bach can be detected throughout the 10-track CD, X Opus has shaped a dense musical landscape pockmarked by major plateaus and minor gullies. The combination of doomy chord changes, bombastic compositional grandness, the flavor of Middle Eastern scales, and lyrical themes, based on the redemptive nature of faith, is enough to send chills up and down your spine. "You always hear about the healing powers of music," says guitarist, multi-instrumentalist and X Opus leader James Williams. "The Epiphany CD really sums up many of the trials and tribulations of my life and even my own belief system. Really, it's the record I've waited my life to make." Williams composed the music and played and/or programmed all of the instruments heard on The Epiphany. Dallas-Fort Worth area singers Brian Dixon and David Crocker provide the operatic and classic metal vibrato. (Think Halford, Dio, Tate and LaBrie.) It's no accident that the extreme emotional component of this music has moved so many who've heard it. The Epiphany is more than just good headbanging entertainment -- it's a senses-stimulating symphonic metal experience for the ages. "The Epiphany CD took about two years to finish," boasts Williams. "I wrote 25 compositions for the CD and I picked the one that I thought were the most appropriate thematically. I'm really very proud of this entire collection of tunes." WebLink: www.magnacarta.net/xopus. QUEENSRYCHE'S GEOFF TATE TALKS DEDICATED TO CHAOS, JUDAS PRIEST TOUR, NEW TRACKS AND MORE: Queensryche lead singer Geoff Tate checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about their brand new studio release Dedicated to Chaos; the composition of specific songs like Higher and Hot Spot Junkie; his favorite vocal moments on the release; knowing this will be compared to Operation: Mindcrime and how they write the music anyway; the upcoming tour with Judas Priest; and a whole lot more. To hear the interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/geoff-tate-of-queensryche-3/

 

 

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

SERPENTINE AND LECHERY FOR AOR/METAL HEAVEN IN AUGUST: Serpentine – Living And Dying In High Definition / AOR Heaven / Release: 26.08.2011 Described by the press as 'one of the most impressive new names on the melodic rock radar' this young, British quintet fronted by current TNT vocalist Tony Mills are riding a resurgence in melodic rock. Originally founded in Wales around the talents of keyboard player Gareth David Noon, guitarist Christopher Gould and bassist Gareth Vanstone, the band were keen to capitalize on their burgeoning reputation and returned to the studio late last year to begin recording their follow up at M2 Studios, Wolverhampton, England. They recently completed a highly successful tour of the UK alongside Crash Diet and Houston, ending with a triumphant night at London's Islington O2 Academy. Classic Rock Magazine commented: 'Introducing a couple of impressive-sounding new songs, "Philadelphia" and "Cry", they cruised through the cream of the debut leaving the audience drooling. Given the overwhelming response to their debut album, headliners Houston were adjudged the top dogs of course, but I have to say that Serpentine pushed the Swedes every darned step of the way!' Playing an unashamedly keyboard led, yet guitar infused brand of hard rock, the band have once again teamed up with producer Sheena Sear (Magnum) and her crystal clear production on "Living And Dying In High Definition" has captured the muscle and melody the band display live. Sound clips in advance: Dreamer / Philadelphia / Where Do We Go From Here. Line-up: Tony Mills – voc., Gareth David Noon – keys, voc., Christopher Gould – guit., Gareth Vanstone – bass, voc., Roy Millward – dr. Serpentine live: 25.09. D-Ludwigsburg, Rockfabrik (Heat Festival) 22.10. UK-Nottingham, Rock City (Firefest) 29.10. E-Madrid, Rockfest WebLinks: www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Serpentine/221252731353 / www.myspace.com/planetserpentine.   xx Lechery In Fire / Metal Heaven / Release: 26.08.2011 Lechery was formed in 2004 and recorded and released their debut album "Violator" in 2008. It was a great success in the classic Heavy metal countries, but also in the U.S. Lechery went out on the road, and played on and off in all 2008 and 2009 both on major festivals and some smaller club gigs. In late 2010 the four-piece again entered the studio to record a new album, and once again the recordings took place in "The sweet spot", with Rickard Bengtsson as producer, who also has worked with such bands as Arch Enemy, Spiritual Beggars, Armageddon etc. This second album is much more varied than "Violator" - and still it´s classic heavy metal at it´s best. The whole feeling is that the band and their music has grown several steps. "In Fire" was mixed by Rickard Bengtsson and mastered at Platinum Mastering in Stockholm. Sound clips in advance: Burning Anger / Heart Of A Metal Virgin / Mechanical Beast. Line-up: Martin Bengtsson - vocals, guitar, Fredrik Nordstrandh – guitar, Martin Karlsson – bass, Kristian Svensson – drums. WebLinks: www.lechery.se / www.myspace.com/lecheryofficial / www.facebook.com/pages/Lechery/65155595738.   xx FM - LIVE FOOTAGE OF "OVER YOU" AT SWEDEN ROCK JUNE 09: FM play the final show in their current run of dates this Friday July 1st with D-A-D at Pavilhao do Restelo in Lisbon, Portugal. FM will be onstage at 21.20h with D-A-D taking to the stage at 23.00h. FM would like to thank everyone involved in making their European tour – taking in shows in Spain, Ireland, Holland and Portugal, and sets at Sweden Rock, Download, Graspop and Rock The Nation Loreley - a great success:- Journey and Foreigner, festival organisers and show promoters, and above all the fans for the fantastic reception on all their dates. Drummer Pete Jupp's daily Tour Blog and photos can be found on the News page at www.fmofficial.com. FM will be back in the studio soon to continue recording the follow-up to last year's Metropolis album. Video: FM - "Over You" - Live at Sweden Rock - June 9: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTMpwkBT20w. WebLinks: www.fmofficial.com / www.facebook.com/FMofficial / www.twitter.com/FMofficial.   xx 3 DOORS DOWN ANNOUNCE TIME OF MY LIFE: 3 Doors Down's much anticipated new album, Time of My Life is available for pre-sale on iTunes beginning today. Fans can order the album in deluxe and standard versions before it hits stores on July 19. The digital deluxe version will feature bonus material including 3 acoustic tracks, 1 demo track and 1 B-side track. Pre-Sale Deluxe: itunes.apple.com/us/preorder/time-of-my-life/id443436877 / Regular: itunes.apple.com/us/preorder/time-of-my-life/id445021416. "We are excited for the fans to hear these songs and think they'll love them as much as we do," said front man Brad Arnold. "It's a record we're proud of and we can't wait to play the songs for ya'll live!" he added. Time of My Life will be available everywhere on July 19 through Universal Republic. The album's first single, "When You're Young," debuted at #1 on the iTunes Rock Singles Chart earlier this year and continues to climb at Active Rock, Mainstream Rock and Alternative Rock radio formats. The album's second single, "Every Time You Go," also debuted at #1 on the iTunes Rock Singles Chart and is currently being added to Active Rock, Alternative and Rock radio. The video for the first single premiered earlier this year on AOL and can be viewed on the band's YouTube page. The band just completed a month long run in Europe playing festivals and a sold out headline tour, they will tour the US this fall. For more information and tour dates check out www.3doorsdown.com. Digital Deluxe Version Bonus Track Listing: When You're Young (acoustic), What's Left (acoustic) *iTunes exclusive track, Every Time You Go (acoustic), Train (Demo), The Silence Remains (B-Side).

 

 

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

ILIUM UPGRADE TO GENETIC MEMORY FOR 2011 RELEASE: Escape Music announce their next release - the new Ilium album Genetic Memory, due out in Europe August 26. Ilium is a melodic power metal band from Newcastle, Australia with strong roots in the classic heavy metal sound as purveyed by the likes of Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath and Judas Priest. The band has already released four albums and is currently poised to release their fifth album 'Genetic Memory' on Escape Music. Ilium have recorded 11 brand new songs, which are so infectious they will have you hooked from the start. That powerful metal tone is still there with bags of melody to back it up. This time Swedish mixer extraordinaire Martin Kronlund is twiddling the knobs, making this fifth outing more special than ever…. Ilium is maturing fast into a formidable power metal band that will leave you drooling for more. This new CD is their finest hour and again features vocalist Mike DiMeo (Riot). Line-up: Mike DiMeo - vocals (ex Riot / ex Masterplan) / Jason Hodges - guitar / Adam Smith - guitar, bass, keys / Tim Yatras - drums. Mixed and mastered by Martin Kronlund. Tracks: 1-Kinaesthesia 2- Littoria 3- Grey Stains the Rainbow 4- The Immortality Gene 5- Ephemeral 6- Genetic Memory 7-Hostile Sky 8- Fevered Tongue 9- Neanderthal Within 10- Ghosts In Flesh 11- Irrinja. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   PARADISE INC. INKS DEAL WITH AVENUE OF ALLIES MUSIC: Paradise Inc., featuring Brazilian musicians Rick A. (bass), Allan Juliano (drums), Marcos Peres and De Grigo (guitars), and German vocalist Carsten Schulz (Evidence One, Midnight Club), have signed a deal with Avenue Of Allies Music, independent record label based in Germany specializing in Melodic Rock, Classic Rock, Hard Rock and AOR artists. The worldwide release of the debut album, Time, is scheduled for Sept. 9. "As I've been saying, we recognize that the Brazilian scene is full of good extreme metal bands of thrash, death and black metal, but almost nothing related to hard rock, AOR and melodic rock, something that is so big in Europe. That's why we are so pleased to ink this deal with Avenue Of Allies Music, because now people can prove that in Brazil there is also good AOR/Hard Rock", says Rick A., bassist. "Time" also features Italian keyboardist Alessandro Del Vecchio (Glenn Hughes, Edge Of Forever, Eden's Curse, Time Machine and Moonstone Project) and Doogie White (Tank, Rainbow, Cornerstone, Yngwie Malmsteen and Praying Mantis), which sings with Carsten "Lizard" Schulz track 'Not In Paradise'. The album was mixed by Scotsman composer and producer Paul Logue (Eden's Curse, David Readman and Cry Havoc), and mastered by renowned producer Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69), who has worked with names like House Of Lords Allen / Lande, Creek, Eden's Curse, Krokus, Place Vendome, Sunstorm and others. WebLinks: www.avenue-of-allies.com / www.paradiseinc.net.   7TH HEAVEN COMPLETE POP MEDIA: 7th heaven are on the verge of completing their newest studio opus - Pop Media. The band states: "It is almost finished. We hope to send it to press this week (cross your fingers for us). We have a couple more songs to mix down and then it's up to how fast the printer can get them back to us. We hope to have them in about 2-3 weeks... look for an e-mail on the release date. This CD is a fun collection of songs we feel fit the bands current sound and encompass the world we live in as a band. We think you will like the songs we chose for the CD. We have started playing 2 songs already off the CD live and this week, we add 3 more to our set. Stay tuned for a exact release date." Watch out right here for that date and order details, plus hopefully a sneak peak into the album's material.   ROCK 'N' ROLL MERCENARIES - INTERVIEWS WITH ROCK STARS VOLUMES I & II: "This is not just a collection of interviews, but an insight into the minds of some of rock 'n' roll's greatest characters." – Malcolm Dome "The list of interviews Mr. Daniels has compiled is most impressive - this man obviously takes his rock n' roll very seriously!" – Greg Prato "Daniels really gets under the skin of the rock 'n' roll industry…" – Joel McIver "I enjoy reading Neil's interviews almost as much as my own!" – Jeb Wright 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 in these two volumes. Volume I includes interviews with 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. Volume II includes interviews with 7th Heaven, Blaze Bayley, Bobby Rondinelli, Bruce Kulick, Diamond Head, Europe, Foreigner, Guns N' Roses, Heaven's Basement, Joerg Deisinger, Leaves' Eyes, Lillian Axe, Phil Vincent, Primal Fear, Robert Fleischman, Saxon, Slade, Sonic X, Stone Gods, The Rushing, Threshold, Thunder and Tim "Ripper" Owens. Published by Authors Online (www.authorsonline.co.uk) Format: Paperback and eBook. You can buy them as eBooks from Amazon and at the publishers' website, AuthorsOnline: Amazon - www.amazon.co.uk/Rock-Roll-Mercenaries-Interviews-Stars/dp/0755212096/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1309167672&sr=1-1 / www.amazon.co.uk/Rock-Roll-Mercenaries-Interviews-Stars/dp/0755213114/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1309167694&sr=1-2. Authorsonline - www.authorsonline.co.uk/book/1023/Rock+%27N%27+Rock+Mercenaries%3A+Interviews+with+Rock+Stars+Volume+II / www.authorsonline.co.uk/book/860/Rock+%27N%27+Roll+Mercenaries+-+Interviews+with+Rock+Stars+Volume+1. MELODIC BRIEFS: Eric Martin sent out this update via his newsletter: "Hey gang, In route home after an amazing European tour. We'll be back here doing our own theatre tour September/October but for now, I'm heading home just long enough to wash clothes, kiss the wife and kids and then it's back out to South America. After that, we'll be home for a good old USA tour which the guys and I can't wait for (it's been way too long). Check out my website or ericmartin.com/l/ag4zkq/609323; www.mrbigsite.com for all tour dates and latest news." New Jersey's Christian Rockers Rivera Bomma are now booking International & National selected 2011 live dates. Rod Rivera, Johnny Bomma & Steven Riker will be joined by Master Extraordinaire Bass player Mike Lepond of "Progressive Metal Giants" Symphony X. Rivera Bomma is currently recording their much anticipated 3rd full length release entitle "Infinite Journey of Souls". WebLink: www.facebook.com/rivera.bomma / www.myspace.com/riverabomma. ALL TOONED UP AND NO PLACE TO GO! BOOK NOW AVAILABLE: Now you can join Gib (the Guitar), Marshall (the Amp), Mike (the Microphone) and the rest of the gang from Ron Braun's popular music comic strip Toon It Up in their brand new book, All Tooned Up And No Place To Go! as they wisecrack their way through headline-inspired humor about the bands* you know and love (or maybe loathe), the scandals and blowouts of those same band-members and, of course, our musical pop-culture in general. This 96-page collection features the entire run of the Toon It Up comic strip, never-before-seen strips from the unpublished archives, strip commentaries and much more. *bands such as Foreigner, Van Halen, Survivor, Journey, Def Leppard, Styx, Night Ranger, AC/DC, Loverboy, Kiss, Pink Cream 69, Eden's Curse, Line Of Fire and tons more! You can get your own copy for only $9.99 though the link below and if you use the coupon codes SUMMERBOOK11 or SUNSHINE305 you can get an additional 20% off! WebLink: www.lulu.com/product/paperback/all-tooned-up-and-no-place-to-go/16069937 / www.toon-it-up.com.   UFO ON TOUR INUSA WITH MINDFLOW: Seminal British rockers UFO have confirmed a new run of North American dates kicking off this September in Santa Rosa, CA. The band will be touring North America in support of their greatest hits collection "Best of a Decade" which is out now on SPV/Steamhammer. UFO is also in the process of working on a new studio album which is scheduled for release in early 2012. 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. Providing direct support on the tour with be Brazilian rockers Mindflow. Their latest release "With Bare Hands" is available now on Nightmare Records. Heavy metal, hard rock, modern rock...try to put Mindflow's music into a category and you either don't know where to stop or you can't find the words. It's all there - the compelling energy of the rhythm section - drums and bass pounding relentless power. UFO On Tour With Mindflow 9/15: Santa Rosa, CA @ Last Day Saloon 9/16: Sacramento/Orangevale, CA @ Boardwalk 9/17: Santa Clara, CA @ Avalon 9/19: Portland, OR @ The Aladdin Theater 9/21: Modesto, CA @ The Fat Cat 9/23: Las Vegas, NV @ Boulder Station Casino 9/24: Los Angeles, CA @The Key Club 9/29: San Juan Capistrano, CA @ The Coach House 10/1: San Bernadino, CA @ Orange Raceway 10/6: Dallas, TX @ House of Blues 10/7: Houston, TX @ Warehouse Live Studio 10/8: San Antonio, TX @ Backstage Live For more info visit: www.ufo-music.info / www.spv.de / www.letyourmindflow.com.

 

 

Monday, June 27, 2011

XORIGIN "STATE OF THE ART" – AN AOR NEWCOMER NOT TO BE MISSED: Hailing from Scandinavia, XorigiN is the newest addition to the Frontiers Records ever expanding roster of artists and will release their debut album entitled State of the Art on August 23rd in North America and August 26th in Europe. The band was originally named Orange Crush and was formed in Los Angeles in 1999, while the members where studying music at the Musicians Institute. The founding members Johannes Stole (vocals) and Daniel Palmqvist (guitar) later returned to their home countries of Norway and Sweden and continued collaborating on various projects in between their other engagements. Johannes is currently a sought after session singer/artist in Oslo, Norway and has released 2 critically acclaimed albums with progressive rock band Slaves To Fashion. Daniel has released a well received instrumental solo album, appeared as a session guitarist on a number of albums and is the former guitarist for the band The Murder Of My Sweet. Melodic hard rock with a modern edge would be a fitting description of XorigiN's music. Musically they draw on influences such as Toto, Giant, Journey and Yes ("90125"/"Big Generator" era) to name a few, but still keeping their own personal sound and musical identity intact. Strong melodies, well crafted songs and catchy vocal arrangements are their trademark. "It is our version of what AOR should sound like, catchy melodic tunes with rocking guitars and big hooks!", says Johannes, "Our musical influences definitely shine through, but there's also something uniquely ours mixed in there as well" adds Daniel. "State of the Art" was produced by Daniel Flores (Mind's Eye, The Murder of My Sweet) and promises to put the band on the radar of all the classic Melodic Rock fans! You will certainly hear more from these guys "We're in this for the long run and are already writing for the next album" says Stole while Palmqvist adds "Hopefully the album will be well received and we certainly have a wish to take these songs to the stage". State of the Art includes the following songs: Can't Keep Running; Crying For You; In The Blink Of An Eye; Too Late; Gina; This Is It; The One For Me; Said And Done; Matters To The Heart; What Love Is All About; Mend My Heart. Includes bonus video clip Can't Keep Running. You can enjoy the album trailer following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdGgf7DfEDw. Can't Keep Running can be streamed and listened to in full on the Frontiers Records web radio: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Weblinks: www.myspace.com/xorigin / www.frontiers.it.   xx CHICAGO TO HIT UK FOR ONE-OFF SHOW: Chicago, one of the most successful rock'n'roll bands of all time, will perform a special one-off "Greatest Hits" UK concert at London's HMV Hammersmith Apollo on Wednesday 6th July. Tickets are available from 0844 888 9991 and 0844 847 1642. Book online: www.ticketline.co.uk, www.ticketmaster.co.uk. The London show will be their only UK date this year. The multi-million selling band's greatest hits set will include classic songs such as Colour My World, Hard to Say I'm Sorry, Saturday In The Park, and If You Leave Me Now, which topped the singles charts in the UK and America. The current line-up includes original founding members Robert Lamm, Lee Loughnane, James Pankow and Walt Parazaider, plus Jason Scheff, Tris Imboden, Keith Howland, Lou Pardini and Drew Hester. Chicago's numerous lifetime achievements include multiple Grammy Awards, American Music Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Their record sales are in excess of 100 million; including 21 Top 10 singles, 5 consecutive Number One albums, 11 Number One singles and 5 Gold singles. Twenty five of their 32 albums have been certified platinum. Read the official online announcement here - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/kennedy_street/chicago.htm.   ROGER WATERS TO BRING THE WALL TO AUSTRALIA: From Undercover.fm: Roger Waters will perform his classic Pink Floyd album 'The Wall' in Australia in 2012. Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney have been locked in for dates starting in Perth on January 27. 'The Wall' was Pink Floyd's 11th studio album and went on to become one of the biggest selling albums of all time. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) ranks 'The Wall' as the 4th biggest selling album in the USA behind 3. Led Zeppelin 'IV', 2. Michael Jackson 'Thriller' and Eagles 'Their Greatest Hits'. 'The Wall' is a rock opera set around the character Pink who was born during World War II and his father was killed in the war. He grows up with abusive teachers and an over protective mother to become a big rock star whose marriage breaks down and leads to his withdrawal from society. Roger Waters dates are: January 27, Perth, Burswood Dome February 1, Brisbane, Entertainment Centre February 7, Melbourne, Rod Laver Arena February 14, Sydney, Acer Arena STRYPER PERFOM IN MADRID: MetalSymphony.com has uploaded photos of Stryper's June 16, 2011 concert at Sala Joy Slava in Madrid, Spain. Also available are pictures of support act Stormzone. Check them out at this location: www.metalsymphony.com/galeria/thumbnails.php?album=333. Stryper's setlist was as follows: Sing along Song, Murder by Pride, Loud 'n' Clear, The rock that makes me Roll, Reach Out, Calling on You, Free, More than a Man, Breaking the Law ­ Judas Priest, Heaven and Hell ­ Black Sabbath, Surrender, All for One, The Way; To hell with the Devil, Soldiers under Command. NEW REVIEWS: New Reviews have been added for Night Ranger, Warrant, Def Leppard and Black N Blue. Read the reviews.

 

 

Friday, June 24, 2011

EMBRACE THE SUN VIDEO UPDATE: MindSplit have just unveiled a web video for their contribution Guardian Angel to the album Embrace The Sun - The Lion Music Japan Benefit Project which was released on 17th June 2011. View the video now at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=NMpKABaEz5c. On their contribution HB Anderson of the band commented, "It felt natural to do a ballad with the feelings we have for this disaster. We hope you like the song, please buy the album!" "Embrace The Sun - The Lion Music Japan Benefit Project" features 28 brand new tracks spread over 2 CD's from some of the best Lion Music acts and some special guests. Dedicated to the victims of the Tsunami and Earthquake that struck Japan in March 2011, all artists and composers as well the record label and publishing company are donating their profits from the material included to the Japan Red Cross in hope of a better world. Full information and ordering information for "Embrace The Sun" can be found at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/embracethesun.htm.   EX- YES SINGER JON ANDERSON SAYS ROGER DEAN SHOULD RECEIVE CREDIT FOR 'AVATAR': Fans of the superstar British progressive rock group Yes have pointed out many visual similarities between the blockbuster movie Avatar and the artwork of Roger Dean, who provided the cover art for such classic Yes albums as Fragile, Close to the Edge and Tales From Topographic Oceans. In a new interview with Examiner.com former Yes front man Jon Anderson commented on the matter for the first time, saying, "He should have gotten a name check on the movie." The debate exploded in online forums as soon as Avatar hit theaters, with longtime Roger Dean fans noting the similarities between Dean's floating islands and dragons and those depicted throughout the film. Fans have even made YouTube videos set to Yes music, and several web sites have written articles about the controversy. Other fans have noted the body paint in the film resembles that in Dean's book Magnetic Storm. Still others have pointed out that the film's eco-friendly plot mirrors many of the themes contained in Jon Anderson's own lyrics, particularly from his landmark solo album Olias of Sunhillow, which featured an indigenous culture whose life centers around a tree - another major theme of Avatar. Asked directly if he saw any Yes or Roger Dean influence in the film, Anderson replied, "For sure Roger Dean. For sure. He should have gotten a name check on the movie. The movie is ginormous," Anderson added. "The movie is glorious, I cried all the way through it twice." The singer explores many of the same themes in his new album Survival & Other Stories, for which he collaborated with a diverse group of musicians via the Internet. Anderson's concerns for spirituality and ecology provide the basis for many tracks, especially "Big Buddha Song," with its pointed references to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and last year's oil spill disaster. "People always say, 'Oh, Jon Anderson, the lyrics are all light and dreamy,'" Anderson said. "No, I go for the jugular all the time, but people don't quite get it sometimes." RECORD COVER ARTIST IOANNIS ON TOUR WITH URIAH HEEP: Record cover artist Ioannis (Deep Purple, Yngwie Malmsteen, Fates Warning, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Free Reign, UFO, Dokken, Quiet Riot) has just released, for a limited time only, a Uriah Heep Into The Wild cover art print signed by Ioannis and the band. Each limited edition print is approved and individually hand signed and numbered by Ioannis and the members of Uriah Heep (Mick Box, Trevor Bolder, Bernie Shaw, Phil Lanzon, and Russell Gilbrook). This special edition will be limited to these three hundred prints only and will never be reproduced again. To further, Ioannis will also be appearing on selected dates of the U.S tour with Uriah Heep to show his work and sign art for the fans. The dates are: 6/23 Foxborough MA. 6/24 Penns Peak PA. 6/25 Ridgefield CT. 6/27 Infinity Hall CT. 6/28 Londonburry NH. To learn more information on these appearances please go to www.dangerousage.com. POWERWORLD ANNOUNCE NEW SINGER: Powerworld played on the last tour with Axel Rudi Pell with Michael Bormann on vocals due to singer Mac's serious health problems. Michael had only six days to prepare himself and because the tour was imminent, he had no opportunity to rehearse with the band. The tour went extremely well, and Michael did one good job after another. Every evening he sang Mac's vocals as though they were his own, and rescued the first tour for Powerworld. Subsequently the band put all activities on hold to give Mac the time that he needed to make a good recovery. Ilker and Barish played on the tour with Michael Bormann Band during this time. Unfortunately, Mac did not recover from his illness, and has left the band by his own request. Now that the band know that Michael is one of the best singers in Germany and have also gained a new friend, it was logical to ask him whether he could imagine a future with Powerworld. And here he is - the new singer... Welcome Michael Bormann! WebLink: www.powerworld.org / www.spv.de.   THIS WEEK ON HMH UK: On this weeks Hair Metal Haven/Power Hour Chris Nelson will be talking to the guys from Powerquest about the new line up, the new album, and their plans for the future. Also on the show this week is an 18 & Life interview with Enuff Znuff vocalist Donnie Vie. 18 personal questions about sex, alcohol and music, so if you wanna find out what makes Donnie tick tune in Saturday 25th June 17.00-19.00gmt on www.phoenixradio.co.uk. NEW BROWN EYES SOUL FROM STEVE SALUTO: STEVE SALUTO Brown Eyed Soul is a brand new album from Heart Of Steel Records, out now in Europe or digitally worldwide. The guitar of Steve Saluto is able to show all the artist's taste and heart having in the impact and in the freshness of the sound its winning card in this way Guitar Club Magazine introduced Steve Saluto in the Nov. 2000 issue. Residing in Treviso (Italy), Steve Saluto began playing guitar at the age of fifteen. At the beginning they were jazz guitar lessons then, inspired by the Van Halen solo in "Beat It", Steve took up playing rock. From Jazz to Funk to Rock and Pop, Steve has played and or recorded with a diverse many such as Federico Stragà, Danny Losito, Massimo Riva, Elio e le Storie Tese, Cheryl Porter, Vittorio Matteucci, The Venice Gospel Ensemble, Jeff Berlin, Darryl Jones, Danny Gottlieb, Buddy Miles, Phil Palmer, and many more. He has written and produced 7 solo and band recordings featuring his diverse guitar virtuosity. Besides his guitar player and band leader status, Steve is an in demand co-writer and producer for up and coming young bands under his production company known as "Imput Level Productions"; He also own a recording commercial studio in San Biagio di Callalta (TV). Steve graced national TV and RADIO shows (RAI, Video Music, Roxy bar) and the pages of several guitar and music pubblications including Guitar Player, Guitar Club, Axe, Metal Shock, Flash and Basimedia Magazine and he is always included in magazines and websites as a brilliant and versatile guitarist and songwriter. In his "Rough Beat" (2006) , "Rust & Gold" (2008) and "Resurrection" (2010) he joined forces with Richie Kotzen ... but his latest venture is a band called "La Famiglia Superstar" with Terry Ilous on vocals, Atma Anur on drums and Marco Mendoza on bass. The italian rock guitar player, returns with Brown Eyed Soul, a brand new album for 2011 featuring Marco Mendoza (Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy) on vocals, Doug Wimbish (Living Colour, Madonna, Michael Bolton) on bass and Atma Anur (Cacophony, Greg Howe) on drums. The album's release has been anticipated by the single/videoclip "Your Love" that reveals the funk/rock with a 70s touch sound defining the unmistakable Steve' style. The album was recorded and produced by Steve Saluto and mixed and mastered by his long time friend guitarist Alex de Rosso (Dokken). As a solo artist Steve released during the years 8 albums with different music styles ranging from hard rock, to jazz/fusion to funky/rock and seventies influenced music. "Brown Eyed Soul" offers fans a collection of songs: from classic and melodic hard rock and soul (the album also includes a revisited version of the Tommy Bolin tune "Wild Dogs") to a couple of burning instrumental. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new featured live shows: - Cinderella - Live Moscow Russia 2011-06-17 (Solid audience recording) - Night Ranger - Live In Japan June 9, 2011 (Very good audience recording - killer show) - Simple Minds - BBC Radio 2 In Concert FM 2011-06-16 Plus these new Video Clips: 7th Heaven - Cellophane & This Summer's Gonna Last Forever; Auras - Beauty of Dreams; Pretty Maids - Little Drops of Heaven; Crashdiet - Generation Wild. Join the MelodicRockXtra Members Section now. REVIEWS IN-BOUND: New Reviews will be online Monday, with more to follow. Check in Monday for the verdict on: Night Ranger, Black N Blue, Warrant & Def Leppard Live. Coming up....so many more...Williams Friestedt, Whitesnake, Toby Hitchcock, Rob Moratti, Lionville, Million, Electric Boys, Yes and many more. COMING SOON: Work on the new MR site has restarted after a few delays and complications...that will launch in the next few months. The now out of date MelRock Awards...Interviews with Journey's Arnel Pineda and Neal Schon and pre-sale information for the Rick Springfield Tribute, Taxxi and Riverdogs albums!

 

 

Thursday, June 23, 2011

JIMI JAMISON & JIM PETERIK RE-ISSUE WITH BONUS TRACK: Due to ongoing demand, MelodicRockRecords is pleased to announce a re-pressing of the first MRR title 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. In the process of sorting through various discs and files recently, I unearthed one extra track that could have been included on this special release. So with this re-pressing, I have taken the chance to add this one extra track - a first take original demo of the song Battersea. So fresh, it features no drum track and Jim Peterik on vocals. Bonus tracks can be a bone of contention with fans that have already purchased the original release - so with that in mind, I am also offering the track as a free download in 192 MP3 and FLAC format. Download: Battersea - MP3 / FLAC (updated link). The New 12 song Extra Moments CD Track Listing with audio previews 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) / Battersea (First Take Demo, Jim Peterik lead vocal) / Life #9 (Demo, Jim Peterik lead vocal). This pressing is strictly limited to 500 units and can be ordered now via the Paypal link below. Orders will be shipped Monday July 1.   THE SOFTER SIDE OF AXEL RUDI PELL: Axel Rudi Pell is set to release The Ballads IV. The press release - "Another 7 years passed by after the release of the The Ballads III. Seven years of writing, recording and collecting even more emotional and melancholic songs. To keep the tradition, the band decided to record 3 brand new tracks for this ballad compilation. Here is a short introduction by Axel himself to every new song in the specific running order: Where The Wild Waters Flow - "My own composition in the true ARP ballad style. This song is not about love, it has a more mysterious content and it captures the long and hopeless journey of human beings trying to get away from some dark mights. One can apply this to many different thoughts and situations nowadays. I definitely think that this song is one of the strongest ballads I´ve ever written with a hookline that will stick to everyone´s ears!" Holy Diver - "As everybody knows, my soul mate and friend Ronnie James Dio sadly passed away last year. It was very clear to me using one of his songs to pay him tribute. It had to be a song, which was very easy recognizable as one of his tunes and therefore I picked "Holy Diver". Of course the original track isn´t a ballad, so I decided to re-arrange the song completely and we made a Piano version out of it, featuring some Orchestra – strings, a Cello and a clean and melodic guitar solo. Johnny gave his very best vocal performance and after the track was finished, there were lots of tears in some eyes…" Hallelujah - "At least one of the best ballads around. Originally written and released by Leonard Cohen in 1984, it wasn´t his version giving me the idea to cover this tune. Actually it was all the good and bad performances of some TV casting show participants, who gave me the real kick to create one of the, hopefully, ultimate versions of this song. We recorded a children´s choir for this, which fits perfectly to Johnny´s emotional and soulful voice. There are 2 different versions of this track: the CD album version which features a slightly wilder guitar solo and the "Single" (and downloadable) version which features a calmer guitar solo." "The Ballads IV" will be released as standard version, double gatefold LP in coloured vinyl and download through Steamhammer / SPV. "The Ballads IV" - Tracklisting: 1) Where The Wild Waters Flow 5:34 (New Song) 2) Holy Diver 4:49 (New Song) 3) Hallelujah 4:16 (New Song) 4) Northern Lights 6:22 5) Noblesse Oblige (Opus #5 Adagio Contabile) 4:08 6) Love Gun 4:03 7) Glory Night 5:44 8) In The Air Tonight 8:37 9) Touching My Soul 6:32 10) Like A Child Again 4:47 11) No Chance To Live 6:17 12) Haunted Castle Serenade (Opus #4 Grazioso E Agresso) 3:51 13) The Curse Of The Damned 9:57. Produced and Arranged by Axel Rudi Pell. "Where The Wild Waters Flow", "Holy Diver" and "Hallelujah" were Recorded, Mixed and Co-Produced by Charlie Bauerfeind at Twilight Hall Studios, Grefrath, Germany, in May 2011. Children´s Choir on "Hallelujah" recorded at the Widar School, Bochum – Wattenscheid, conducted by Dietmar Bloch. "The Ballads IV" - Release Dates: Germany: September 23rd, 2011 / Europe: September 26th, 2011 / USA/Canada: September 27th, 2011 Axel Rudi Pell live 2011: 14.07. D-Balingen - Bang Your Head Festival 15.07. D-Osnabrück - Hyde Park 16.07. NL-Kerkrade - Rodahall (special guest of Whitesnake) Line-Up: Johnny Gioeli - Lead and Backing Vocals, Axel Rudi Pell - Lead, Rhythm and Acoustic Guitars, Ferdy Doernberg - Keyboards, Volker Krawczak - Bass, Mike Terrana - Drums. WebLinks: www.axel-rudi-pell.de / www.spv.de.   CINDERELLA LIVE IN SPAIN: MetalSymphony.com has uploaded photos of Cinderella's June 9, 2011 concert at Sala La Riviera in Madrid, Spain. Also available are pictures of support act Jorge Salán. Check them out at this location: www.metalsymphony.com/galeria/thumbnails.php?album=332. Cinderella's setlist was as follows: Once around the Ride, Shake Me, Heartbreak Station, Somebody save Me, Night Songs, The more things Change, Coming Home, Second Wind, Don't know what you Got (Till it's Gone), Nobody's Fool, Gypsy Road. Encore: Long cold Winter, Shelter Me. ZEROKING UNLEASHES 'A TASTE OF SELF DESTRUCTION': (Huntington, WV - 16 June 2011) - Rising US hard rock quartet, ZeroKing have released their new Ep, A Taste Of Self Destruction through Vanity Music Group. The five tracks on offer, "Girls Of California", "Stone Cold Bitch", "She Said", "Black Friday" and "Kings Of Self Destruction" are all pulled from the band's sophomore release, Kings Of Self Destruction, which drops on 27 September 2011. "After the release of our digital single, we wanted to make those songs available at our shows as well," frontman, Andy Haught says. "So, we decided to package those along with three other songs from the 'Kings ...' record that are staples in our live set. The next logical decision was to make all 5 songs available online as either single tracks or as a very affordable digital EP. We feel this is a great way to get these songs out quickly to our fans while we are shoring up the release details for "KOSD" and help spread our name and music more to build both our fanbase and the anticipation for the full length CD." Formed in Huntington, West Virginia in early 2005, the band has shared the stage with artists such as Anthrax, Twisted Sister, Bobaflex, Jackyl, Dope, Black Stone Cherry, Airbourne and many more, becoming the "go to" band for regional promoters needing a secure draw and an act that can step into the ring with anyone. The band has gone on to play events such as Rocklahoma, X Fest,103.1 The Bear's 'Party Like A Rockstar' Festival, and Bearfest, amongst a host of other high profile events. In the summer of 2009 ZeroKing entered Smash Hit Studios in Huntington, WV., to begin tracking the Kings Of Self Destruction album with producer and engineer Steve Riley. Comprised of 13 tracks, the session produced a tour de force of hard rock and metal. From anthemic rockers, to songs chock full of heavy metallic riffage, the album contains more than enough to satiate fans of new school, old school, and everything in between. As if all that wasn't enough, the session produced a couple of melodic, captivating ballads, showcasing yet another strong dimension of the band. ZeroKing's single, "Stone Cold Bitch" b/w "Girls Of California" was released in March and can be purchased on iTunes at this link: itunes.apple.com/us/album/stone-cold-bitch-single-single/id423221702?ls=1. For more on ZeroKing visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Zerokingfans and their Reverbnation page at www.reverbnation.com/zeroking. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: 2 new Showcases for Escape Music added today - Rob Moratti and Bridger. Check them out.

 

 

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

MRCD8 - THE NEXT CHAPTER - PRE-SALES OPEN: MRCD8 - The Next Chapter is now officially available for pre-order. Those that pre-order will have the newest MR compilation shipped in advance and will also get an exclusive second "disc" of tracks to download. The Next Chapter features a mix of the old and the new, the known and the unknown. MRCD8 is a single CD on sale for $16 + $5 shipping (airmail worldwide). Official release/in-store date is August 1. All pre-orders will ship the week of July 18. MRCD8 is being limited to 500 UNITS ONLY. Pre-order to ensure you get a copy. Sales of all the MR compilations goes towards keeping MelodicRock.com alive.   MRCD8 The Next Chapter is available for pre-order now. The official release date is August 1 and pre-orders will be available to ship the week of July 18 (slight date change). Only those that pre-order get the bonus disc to download. Preview the compilation's tracks with audio samples linked below. Plenty of exclusive tracks and a really melodic friendly set of songs. 01) Andreas Novak - A New Hope 03:36 (Advance preview of track from the upcoming Novakation album) 02) Michael Bates - Tell Me 03:27 (Advance preview of track from TBA solo debut, produced and played on by Erkka Korhonen/Urban Tale) 03) Nelson - The Church of Rock N Roll 06:00 (Exclusive to this release - unreleased hard rocking Nelson demo) 04) Shining Line - The Best Thing Inside Of Me 06:16 (Exclusive to this release - recorded in 2010 especially for MRCD8) 05) Jamie Allen - That's Rock n Roll 03:19 (Advance preview of track from upcoming TBA debut, produced by Johnny Lima) 06) Bob Halligan Jr - No Means Yes 03:30 (Demo)(Brand new song - exclusive one-off for this CD. Co-written by Fredrik Bergh) 07) W.E.T. - Running From The Heartache 04:24 (Demo)(Exclusive to this release - Demo version with lead vocals from Erik Martensson) 08) Leverage - The Real Law 02:56 (Exclusive to this release - previously unreleased track!) 09) Paradise Inc - I Will Wait 05:11 (Advance preview of brand new band, from upcoming debut album) 10) Outloud - Waiting For Your Love 04:11 (Advance preview track from upcoming Love Catastrophe album due in July) 11) N.O.W. - Strong Enough 04:14 (Exclusive to this release - recorded especially for MRCD8 and once again featuring vocals by Philip Bardowell) 12) Mike Tramp - The Road 04:29 (Acoustic Version)(Exclusive to this release - previously unreleased) 13) Soaked - Believe 03:10 (Previously Unreleased - from unreleased album/band featuring Steve Brown of Trixter) 14) Thom Griffin - Rain 05:00 (Exclusive to this release - new Thom Griffin solo ballad) 15) Jeremy Brunner - Lay Me Down 04:53 (Advance preview track from upcoming TBA debut, featuring Keith St. John on vocals) 16) Big Nature - Far From Reborn 04:44 (Advance preview track of new band featuring Outloud's Chandler Mogel on vocals) 17) Code Of Silence - Here To Heaven 06:32 (Advance preview track of new band, debut album TBA) 18) Liberty & Justice - Playing God 03:46 (From the L&J Chasing A Cure EP)     MRCD Volumes 3 - 7 can be ordered still via: www.melodicrockrecords.com/store. BONUS TRACKS FOR PRE-ORDERS - As promised, those that help support MelodicRock.com by pre-ordering the new compilation will be sent a link to an extra disc of songs to download and keep. Those tracks are the exclusive tracks that featured on MRCD1 & 2, along with 2 brand new tracks to check out (marked with a *). The track listing for the special download is: 01) Westworld - Beautiful 02) Talisman - All Wound Up 03) JK Nothrup - Hangin' By A Thread 04) Chris Heaven - Crystall Ball 05) Adriangale - Midnight Blue 06) Talon - Euphoria 07) Shugaazer - 13th Love Song 08) Brian Bart & Kelly Keagy - Transient State Of Mind 09) Gregg Fulkerson - A Date With Destiny 10) JK Northrup & Terry Ilous - You Should Know 11) Jesse Harms - All I Want Is You 12) Jim Peterik & World Stage - Gutters Of Gold 13) Mike Tramp - Sometimes 14) Nexx - Meaning Of Two Hearts 15) Cornerstone - Some Have Dreams (Acoustic) 16) Cold Heart - Don't Give Up** 17) Hugo - Forever In My Heart 18) Mecca - Time Spent * Cold Heart is a collaboration between American keyboardist Jim Rykbost and Italian vocalist Alex Mark Scott. More material is in the works. Stay tuned... R.I.P. CLARENCE CLEMONS: I regret the oversight in mentioning the tragic and untimely death of one of rock n roll's true legends - Clarence Clemons from the E Street Band. News was passed on thru my Twitter and Facebook news updates, but not as yet here. I'd like to join the chorus of fans, musicians and industry people all over the world in expressing my condolences to Clarence's family. He is one of those irreplaceable characters you just know will always be missed. From NY Daily News: "Since "the change was made uptown and the big man joined the band" Bruce Springsteen and Clarence Clemons have cut an inseparable duo. The surviving half of the legendary rock 'n' roll one-two punch - Springsteen - gave his departed sidekick a memorable send-off Tuesday, eulogizing him at his Palm Beach funeral. "Clarence was a man of unconditional love, but his love came with a lot of conditions," Springsteen told the invitation-only assemblage, according to The Palm Beach Daily News. "He was a complex guy … an ongoing project. But when you were in his presence, it was like being in a sovereign nation." The Garden State favorite son expanded on his eulogy with a "tender" and "softened" solo rendition of "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out" - the iconic paean he penned to the deeply fraternal bond he shared with Clemons, according to the paper. Nicknamed "The Big Man," Clemons served as Springsteen's long-time saxophonist in the E Street Band. The Florida resident died Saturday, a week after suffering a stroke. He was 69. Turns out that Clemons had an odd last wish, his fifth wife, Victoria, told the 150 or so people gathered at his funeral. The sax man apparently asked her to scatter his ashes in a "cherished spot" in Hawaii while "all of the special women in his life," including previous wives, look on, the newspaper reported. Three of Clemons' four ex-wives were in attendance at Royal Poinciana Chapel Tuesday. The service concluded on an upbeat note, according to the paper, which said that Springsteen, the E Street Band and Jackson Browne bid mourners goodbye with a "rollicking" rendition of "You're a Friend of Mine," Clemons' 1985 hit with Browne. Read more: www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/music.   LESLIE WEST FIGHTING BACK AFTER PARTIAL LEG AMPUTATION: (Reuters) - Rock guitarist Leslie West, who rose to fame in the '70s power trio Mountain, has had his lower right leg amputated in a life-saving operation related to his diabetes, his wife said on Monday. West, 65, underwent the emergency surgery after being admitted to a hospital in Biloxi, Mississippi, on Saturday when his leg started to swell and his foot went septic. "The doctors tried for two days to save it to no avail. The decision to amputate was one that was necessary to save his life as the infection was spreading throughout his body," his wife, Jenni West, said in an email. "The nursing staff and doctors have taken excellent care of him and should be called angels for their efforts and tenderness they showed us in this time of crisis." West is expected to recover but faces extensive rehabilitation, a spokesman said. Mountain is probably best known for its debut 1970 single "Mississippi Queen," a staple of classic rock radio. West has long struggled with his weight and type 2 diabetes. He named one of his solo albums "The Great Fatsby." His next album, "The Unusual Suspects," featuring such guitarists as Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, Slash of Guns N' Roses and Joe Bonamassa, does not yet have a release date. "Leslie will, no doubt, bounce back with his unusually bionic blitz of guitarosciousness," Gibbons said in an email. "Leslie will always be playing and standing on higher ground." Best wishes for a speedy recover go out to Leslie. He's one hell of a guitar player. TURN UP SOME NEW KING KOBRA: The brand new King Kobra video for the single Turn Up The Good Times, taken from their new self-titled release.   SHOCKWAVES SKULLSESSIONS EPISODE #48: This is the Real Big 4 Episode (Part 1 of 3). On this first of a riveting 3-episode special, Skullsessions returning guest and esteemed UK metal author Joel McIver is teamed up with newcomers Craig Locicero from Bay Area thrash titans Forbidden and metal tycoon Michael Huntsman as they join host Bob Nalbandian on yet another heated discussion thrashing out a discography deliberation on the first few albums of Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth and Anthrax! This episode (Part 1) hones in on the early days of thrash metal! DIRECT LINK to Podcast on Roadrunner Records: www.roadrunnerrecords.com/music/Shockwaves-Skull-Sessions--Ep-48-The-Big-4-Part-1-of-3-3543.aspx. Link to Skullsessions on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/podcast/shockwaves-skull-sessions/id282478478.

 

 

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

POWERHOUSE VOCALIST TOBY HITCHCOCK TO DEBUT SOLO WITH MERCURY'S DOWN: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Toby Hitchcock's debut solo album Mercury's Down on August 23 in North America and August 26 in Europe. Toby Hitchcock name and abilities came to the attention of Melodic Rock fans when former Survivor founding member Jim Peterik chose him as the lead singer for the band that would mark his return on the scene: Pride of Lions. With Pride of Lions, Toby had the chance to sing on three studio albums which are considered as true classic among the fans. Toby also appeared live fronting the band and his performances at the Lokerse Feesten in Belgium and at the United Forces of Rock in Germany created a vast consensus about his amazing abilities. Often compared to Bobby Kimball (Toto), Jimi Jamison (Survivor) or Lou Gramm (Foreigner), Hitchockc's voice has the depth, the feeling and the extension of each of them, still keeping his own identity and trademark. While Pride of Lions took a small hiatus (but they are already preparing their full comeback album for 2012), Toby took the chance to hook up, under suggestion from Frontiers Records President Serafino Perugino, with the Swedish songwriter and producer Erik Martensson (Eclipse), whose name came to prominence when he wrote and produced the very popular W.E.T. album which saw the return of singer Jeff Scott Soto to Melodic Rock. Erik's abilities impressed so much Toby that another marriage made in AOR Heaven could not be avoided! Consequently Erik started to write another bunch of amazing songs which have been sung with ability and passion by Toby. "I feel really great about this album release and I am looking forward to it. I can't wait for people to listen and hopefully enjoy the music that Erik and I put our hearts into. I love every song on the album. Every song is filled with passion and emotion. They are all amazing!" says Toby. Mercury's Down shows and carves in stone the unbelievable talent of two young guns. Toby is definitely a top vocalist and Erik songwriting and producing abilities keep getting better and better. There is no reason to miss this record, which promises to be easily one of the top Melodic Rock debuts of the year! Mercury's Down includes the following songs: This Is The Moment; Strong Enough; How To Stop; Let Go; One Day I'll Stop Loving You; I Should Have Said; If It's To Be (It's Up To Me); Just Say Goodbye; Summer Nights In Cabo; Tear Down The Barricades; A Different Drum; Mercury's Down. Includes bonus videoclip: This Is The Moment. You can enjoy the album EPK following the link below: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wp5p45t735A. The first single This is the Moment can be exclusively listened in streaming on the Frontiers webradio on: www.frontiers.it/webradio.   xx MR. BIG EMBARKING ON U.S.A. TOUR - THEIR FIRST U.S. TOUR BY THE ORIGINAL BAND IN 15 YEARS!: HOLLYWOOD, CA (June 21, 2011) - Mr. Big will once again unleash their brand of brutal fury on their first U.S. tour in 15 years starting July 30th, in SanDiego at the 4th & B. Returning fresh from a successful run of tour dates overseas, vocalist Eric Martin, guitarist Paul Gilbert, bassist Billy Sheehan, and drummer Pat Torpey, will be hitting the road in the United States this summer in support of the band's new album, WHAT IF… "Man, it's been a long time," states guitarist Paul Gilbert. "I can't wait to play our first show in AMERICA in about 15 years. It's gonna be huge!" 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". 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…" is 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. In other Mr. Big news, the next single from the new album, American Beauty, will ship to radio in July in support of the tour. Mr. Big on tour: July 30 San Diego, CA 4 & B 31 Agoura Hills, CA The Canyon Club August 02 Tempe, AZ Marquee Theatre 04 Santa Ana, CA Galaxy Theatre 05 San Francisco, CA The Fillmore 06 Modesto, CA Xclamation Festival 08 Salt Lake City, UT The Complex 09 Denver, CO Summit Music Hall 12 Chicago, IL House Of Blues 13 Columbus, OH Al Rosa Villa 16 Pittsburgh, PA Trib Total Media Amphitheatre 17 Cleveland, OH House Of Blues 19 Buffalo, NY Town Ballroom 20 Detroit, MI Harpo's 23 New York, NY BB King's 24 Foxborough, MA Showcase Live 26 N. Myrtle Beach, SC House Of Blues 27 Lake Buena Vista, FL House Of Blues 30 Houston, TX House Of Blues 31 Dallas, TX House Of Blues For more information please visit: www.mrbigsite.com.   TOTO UK SHOW UPDATE: Internationally renowned rock band TOTO perform their only UK concert this year at London's HMV Hammersmith Apollo on Sunday 26th June, 2011. Ticket Hotline: 0844 888 9991 or 0844 847 1642. Book Online: www.ticketline.co.uk or www.ticketmaster.co.uk. TOTO will perform all their hits including Hold The Line, Rosanna and Africa. The current line-up features Joseph Williams (lead vocals), David Paich (keyboards), Steve Lukather (guitar, vocals), Steve Porcaro (keyboards), Simon Phillips (drums), and Nathan East (bass guitar). TOTO will also perform songs from their twelve studio albums including their eponymous debut TOTO (1978), Hydra (1979), Turn Back (1981), Toto IV (1982), Isolation (1984), Fahrenheit (1986), The Seventh One (1988), Kingdom of Desire (1992), Tambu (1995), Mindfields (1999), Through The Looking Glass (2002) and Falling In Between (2006). Read the official TOTO press release: www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/toto/tour.htm. OUTLOUD ON YOUTUBE: Check out the new Outloud video for the song Waiting For Your Love - the lead track from the band's upcoming second album Love Catastrophe:   U.S. MELODIC ROCKER'S EDEN'S LIE REVEAL THEIR EPIPHANY SEASON: Eden's Lie is pleased to announce the release of their brand new album Epiphany Season. Formed in early 1995, Eden's Lie has emerged as the longest running local New England rock band, infesting the music scene for 16 years. With the release of Epiphany Season (Over 2 years in the making), Eden's Lie has stayed true to their brand of melodic rock never conforming to the Hip Today rock standard. Often compared to the likes of Creed and Bon Jovi, their songs are an ear-pleasing blend of guitar driven hard rock anthems, contagious melodies and lyrics about life and hope. Following in the footsteps of its debut single Afraid, Face will be hitting the airwaves in July as Eden's Lie embarks on a summer club tour sharing the stage with Candlebox and Firehouse for select dates. Epiphany Season is currently available in two formats. The CD can be purchased directly from Eden's Lie at www.edenslie.com and the deluxe digital version with 2 bonus tracks can be purchased at ITUNES America, UK, Europe, Japan, Mexico, Canada, Australia, Amazon, Napster &Rhapsody. For more information and updates please visit www.edenslie.com, www.facebook.com/edenslie. Epiphany Season Track Listing: 1. Afraid 2. Face 3. Crossing 4. Epiphany Season 5. Aligned 6. Turning In 7. World's Apart 8. Could Have Been You 9. Heart Of Aggression 10. Comfortable With Tragedy 11. This Time 12. Say 13. Tantdrum 14. Safe Not Saved 15. Lost In A Phrase 16. Solitary Space 17. Take 18. Wait 19. Blame. Deluxe version includes 20. Closure 21. Afraid (Radio Edit). Thanks to the band, you can download this free track from the album: Face.   xx ORANGE AMPS LAUNCHES TORNADO VICTIMS FUND-RAISING 'MUSIC AID FOR JOPLIN' AUCTION: Orange Amplifiers, alongside fellow musicians and other people in the music industry, were so very saddened to hear the news about the worst tornado season in more than fifty years in the USA and would like to offer their support. 153 people have been killed in Joplin, Missouri – home of the Glory Days Music Store - and half the town was destroyed including Glory Days itself and the owner's home. Orange Amps have decided after hearing the news to set up a fund-raising 'Music Aid for Joplin' auction of very special musical equipment from Orange and a number of other manufacturers. CEO Cliff Cooper will be working with Ted Owen, the auction house Fame Bureau's Managing Director, who is recognised as one of the world's leading experts in music equipment and memorabilia. Orange Amps will donate a rare and valuable (last one of only twenty made) Union Jack half-stack worth at least $6000! Orange have also helped to coordinate support from other musical instrument manufacturers/suppliers and the auction will include a number of very desirable items which are being added to on a daily basis. The list currently includes: - Sabian Cymbals money-can't-buy 14" Paragon Crash personally signed by Rush's Neil Peart with the Steampunk logo, personalized with the winner's name. - Sabian leather jacket - Orange CR50BXT bass amp, signed by Rush's Geddy Lee, personalized with the winner's name - Yamaha Gigmaker 5pc drum set with hardware and Paiste 101 cymbals - Yamaha New A Series Acoustic/Electric Guitar - Sierra Guitars Sierra Sunrise Auditorium Acoustic Guitar - Shure Microphones Super 55 - Guitar World 12-Month Subscription David Peterson, owner of Glory Days Music Store, commenting on the auction said, 'On hearing about Orange's plans to raise proceeds through an auction, I was just floored. I didn't think for one minute that someone would do something like that for me without asking for it. It's an incredible gesture.' 'We have seen the heartbreaking tragedy that has taken place in the USA, particularly in Joplin Missouri,' said Cooper, 'and we felt that we would like to do something in the spirit of that special relationship that exists between the USA and the UK. The money raised will help the re-establishment of the Glory Days Music Store.' The American Red Cross in Joplin is providing emergency assistance at five separate locations. This includes first aid and emergency health services, mental health services, distribution of bulk items such as recovery kits, toiletries and items needed for the clean-up such as gloves, rakes, masks, and vital water supplies and snacks. To assist Orange Amps and its fellow manufacturers to help and support the Joplin community please go to Fame Bureau's website and bid on one of the many items available. The auction begins Monday, July 18 at FameBureau.com. Auction ends Wednesday, August 24. Any companies wishing to donate to this worthy cause can contact Orange Amps or the Fame Bureau direct via their website www.famebureau.com. TRACII GUNS SAYS VERY FEW WANT ORIGINAL BAND BACK!: Interesting comments from LA Guns guitarist Tracii Guns. From Gibson.com: "When asked about a possible reunion with Lewis, Guns replied: "I don't know why I would do that. A lot of people say I should do it for the fans but, while I honestly respect that opinion, I'm 44-years old and I have to be happy. 1989 was a long time ago and I just don't really have the interest to do it." Guns said there would only be one reason to reunite. "Look I'll be honest with you, I'd do it for money. If L.A Guns had been such a big band that we'd make $100,000 a night or something, then of course I'd do it – I'm not an (expletive). But doing shows for between $1,000 and $10,000, as we do now, then it wouldn't change anything by having Phil in the band. It doesn't make sense. People come to hear the songs. We're just a band and I think it's very few people who actually hang onto the 1988/'89 lineup." DRAGONFORCE ANNOUNCE ONLY EAST COAST SHOW OF 2011 SPECIAL 'UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL': First Los Angeles, then Toronto, and now New York City. The mighty DragonForce announce the last in a trio of special, intimate shows on October 21st at New York's Gramercy Theater. DragonForce's return to New York will be their first since 2009, and will give fans and media the unique opportunity to preview the band's new singer Marc Hudson and whet their appetites for what's to come with some brand new material from their highly anticipated forthcoming album. This special show will be the band's only East Coast appearance in the US before moving to the big stage with full production for their World Tour, which commences early 2012. Tickets are limited to 2 per person and are available Friday June 10th for $20 (plus surcharges) in advance through the link below or $23 (plus surcharges) day of show. Tickets: www.livenation.com/event/000046C8A5818D32. KING KOBRA GUITARIST DAVID MICHAEL PHILLIPS FEATURED IN NEW THE RIGHT TO ROCK PODCAST: TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest podcast (episode #121), featuring King Kobra Guitarist David Michael Phillips (Aka Dave Henzerling). David took time out of their busy schedule to discuss the King Kobra reunion, as well as their new CD. David also discussed the addition of Paul Shortino as well as what fans can expect from the group this year. Interview lasts approx. 30 min. Where do you go to find new music? There are lots of outlets but how do you know you've found the best one? Join Genghis and Ragman as they discuss the best places to discover new music. The boys also delve into the subject of who will carry the torch when the metal masters retire. Next join us for a one on one interview with Guitarist David Michael Phillips (Dave Henzerling) from the reformed King Kobra. Dave discusses the new King Kobra CD as well as plans for a new Big Cock record. RE-INTRODUCING METALKAST: After a 6-month break Metalkast is back with a new host; Lawrence Paterson. Lawrence is a working drummer formally of Chokehold, Blaze Bayley and Sinocence and is a published author. He recently became the new drummer for Rogue Male and plans to be touring with them and recording a new CD this year. Lawrence has co-hosted Metalkast's Rog's Talkin' DrumZ since 2009. Lawrence will be bringing his experience and enthusiasm for the music industry and play his own definition of what he considers to be great rock and metal. Metalkast took a break due to business restructuring and to allow Metalkast creator Paul "The Rog" Rogne to focus on the development of the video version of Rog's Talkin' DrumZ which is a precursor to the video version of Metalkast which they hope to introduce in late 2012. Lawrence's first episode is #138 and can be downloaded from iTunes, listened online at feedburner and can be downloaded at metalkast.com. WebLinks: www.lpdrums.net / www.facebook.com/larrymapex. Listen to Metalkast through many online resources through free subscription at: feeds.feedburner.com/MetalkastPodcast. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: Most of the recent CD Showcases have been updated with fresh new audio samples - a vast improvment over the files originally uploaded! Check them out.

 

 

Monday, June 20, 2011

JACK BLADES DOES THE SPLITS, BUT SHOWS GO ON: Night Ranger frontman Jack Blades has suffered a stage accident just two songs into the band's first show of it's highly anticipated European tour. Jack slipped and fell into a 'splits' position and has damaged his hamstring, which will see him confined to a stool for the remainder of the European tour. No dates will be cancelled or altered...the show much go on! This from Jack himself: "In Switzerland now...just finished our show. I slipped on something onstage in Hannover - the first show and literally did the splits...heard a rip and couldn't get up...Brad had to pull me up. This happened on the second song...Did the rest of the set on a drum stool. I was rushed to hospital right after our show. Thank goodness I didn't tear it, just severely pulled my hamstring muscle. Still doing shows but on a stool...such a bummer for me cause we haven't been here since 1985...oh well...Band still rocking. Day off tomorrow in Milan then show Tuesday there." ~ JB. ALL I KNOW SEARCH FOR PERMANENT DRUMMER: All I Know, one of Belgium's very few AOR acts, is looking for a permanent drummer. All I Know released its debut full length album 'Vanity Kills' at the tail end of 2010 on MelodicRock Records to rave reviews from the worldwide rock community. You can check out the music on Facebook through our web portal at www.alliknow.be. AIK is also featured in the latest issue of Classic Rock presents AOR magazine, with a track on the cover mounted CD compilation (incl. Journey, Toto, Mr. Big,...). The band is in the midst of writing its 2nd album, for release in 2012. If you're interested, are an advanced level drummer with a pro attitude, and have the time and motivation to make All I Know your top priority, get in touch through info@alliknow.be. Weekly rehearsals will be held in Kortrijk, Belgium. Purchase the All I Know debut right here: www.melodicrockrecords.com/store.   AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH GREGG ROLIE CD RELEASE CONCERT: 6/17/2011 - Gregg Rolie, co-founder of two multi-platinum super groups, Santana and Journey, makes a unique solo appearance for three big nights, on June 23rat Georges - San Rafael, on June 24 at The Showroom in SF and on June 25tat Club Fox in Redwood City. These special performances are in celebration of his new solo EP, Five Days. Gregg, along with his special guest, blues guitarist Alan Haynes, will be playing selections from the new EP along with many old favorites. He'll share stories from his 40-plus year career and answer questions from the audience during the show. After his performance, there will be a meet and greet with the audience and Gregg will be on hand for pictures and autographs. Gregg Rolie is the voice behind the classic Santana hits "Black Magic Woman" "Evil Ways" and "Oye Como Va". In 1998, this world class musician, writer, producer was inducted into the Rock n Roll Hall Of Fame as the unmistakable lead vocalist of the Santana band. In addition to launching- along with Carlos Santana- the now legendary act, Rolie also co-produced their first four ground-breaking albums. Departing Santana after the pioneering jazz fusion offering 'Caravansarai' in 1972, band members Gregg Rolie and Neal Schon went on to form the 1980s hit-makers Journey, co-writing and producing that band's first 7 albums. Just released in 2011, "Gregg Rolie - Five Days" is Gregg's latest EP/CD consisting of 6 songs with Gregg playing acoustic piano and singing live. He recorded these tracks in his living room on the piano given to him by his father in the early days of Santana, and as Gregg says, "it's from my house to yours" He gives beautiful new renditions of 2 classic hits that he sang as the lead singer in Santana - "Black Magic Woman" and Journey - "Anytime" - as well as 4 new songs, his own compositions through solo voice and piano. Recently featured on the cover of the UK's Keyboard Player magazine, Rolie is a renowned Hammond B3 player, celebrated for his gritty and intense performances. Up close, personal and intimate, these shows will feature a side of Gregg that all fans should get to know. WebLinks: www.greggrolie.com / www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDwiZYL21To& / www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQKI4bVCcfM&. Sponsored by Classic Rock KFOX 98.5/102.1 June 23, 2011 8pm – George's Nightclub - San Rafael Tickets: $25 Reserved / VIP Seating $30 (Reserved Seating Required) June 24, 2011 9pm - The Showroom - San Francisco Tickets: $25 Reserved / VIP Seating $30 / Back Row $20 June 25, 2011 9pm - Club Fox - Redwood City Tickets: $25 Reserved / $30 VIP Seating / Balcony $20   EAGLE TO RELEASE DEEP PURPLE'S PHOENIX RISING ON DVD JUNE 28: On June 28, Eagle Rock Entertainment will release Deep Purple's Phoenix Rising – a two-hour-plus revelatory documentary including 30 minutes of never-before-seen (not even on bootleg) onstage footage from Japan. Phoenix Rising will be released on DVD, Blu-ray, & in a special two-disc DVD/CD package. The release is cause for celebration amongst Purple fans due to the rarity of material. Extensive interviews with keyboardist Jon Lord and bassist Glenn Hughes tell the tale of a band caught by circumstance into one of its most controversial, extreme and exciting eras of its long career. Ian Gillan and Roger Glover were gone. A young unknown singer by the name of David Coverdale was recruited as was bassist Hughes. The results were the albums Burn and Stormbringer (both released in 1974). But then Ritchie Blackmore left the band. Against all odds, they rocked on, recruiting Tommy Bolin (from Zephyr and The James Gang). The album Come Taste The Band (1975) documents the short-lived Bolin era, an era that all came crashing down when the band announced in July of 1976 that it was breaking up. By December, Bolin would be dead due to a heroin overdose. Nine years of silence would ensue. The never-before-seen 30 minutes, "Rises Over Japan," has the Coverdale/Lord/Bolin/Hughes/Paice line-up delivering the goods in 1976 on eight songs: "Burn," "Getting Tighter," "Love Child," "Smoke On The Water," "Lazy," "Homeward Strut," "You Keep On Moving" and "Stormbringer." (The double-disc package contains these eight songs on CD.) This segment is some of the only video footage that showcases Tommy Bolin performing in Deep Purple. The 90-minute documentary portion, "Getting Tighter," recounts the trials and tribulations of a band in turmoil, riding the rock'n'roll roller coaster to total excess. With its live images, backstage footage, never-before-told stories and original video material carefully culled from years of research, it's a veritable bonanza for Purple fans and fans of Rock History. No stone is left unturned…and sometimes it's not pretty. Gritty, truthful, wild, this is the story of an era in the 1970s that is simply unforgettable. EPK to sample the DVD: www.youtube.com/watch?v=wkavu3MyEmI.   TUFF CELEBRATES 20 YEAR ANNIVERSARY WITH MIDWEST TOUR: Tuff formed in the desert of Phoenix Arizona in 1985, but it took relocating to California and a half dozen years to reach that elusive record deal. After taking over the Sunset Strip in the late 80's with sold out shows at world famous clubs like "Gazzarri's", "The Roxy Theatre" & "Whisky-A-Go-Go" it finally happened. Now TUFF celebrates 20 years since "What Comes Around Goes Around" hit the streets with a string of summer tour dates. It was May 1991 that the Los Angeles based rockers finally realized a dream that most young musicians don't. "I feel very honored to have had the opportunities we were afforded over the years." says vocalist and Wisconsin native Stevie Rachelle. Now a full 2 decades later, the band bassist & founder Todd "Chase" Chaisson along with Rachelle take it on the road with a string of Midwest tour dates along with appearances in Brazil & Mexico. "It's been 20 years since I played many of these cities with Tuff and I am stoked to go back again." Says Chaisson - whose family has a bloodline of name rock bassist's (Greg Chaisson - Badlands & Kenny Chaisson – Keel). Tuff played well into the 90s releasing 2 major label discs, and a handful of independent records before calling it quits. "The impact of grunge finally took its toll, but in the fall of 2001 - I decided to fire it up again." Adds Rachelle. "I can't believe another decade has passed and to think we can still go play for fans around the world. It's something I dreamed of as a kid." The band will spend the summer playing select dates, and perform tunes from their Atlantic Records debut. Including their Dial MTV #3 hit "I Hate Kissing You Goodbye", "So Many Seasons" & "The All New Generation". The band will include tracks from their 7 disc catalog, along with their #1 XM/Sirius Hair Nation smash hit "American Hair Band". The band is rounded out by guest guitar player Jack Aurora (Sister Whiskey) and Trent Anderson on drums (Bang Tango). Summer Tour Dates 2011 Tue. June 21st "Nite Caps" Chicago, IL Wed. June 22nd "Swobey's" Green Bay, WI Thur. June 23rd "Water-Fest" Oshkosh, WI Fri. June 24th "Papa's Social Club" Milwaukee, WI Sat. June 25th "Pickle Park" Minneapolis, MN Sun. June 26th "Wheelhouse" Cedar Falls, IA Sat. July 17th "Faith & Whisky" Mexico City, Mexico Sat. August 13th "Inferno Club" Sao Paulo, Brazil CLASSIC ROCK AND METAL PODCAST: The June edition of the Classic Rock And Metal Podcast is available for streaming at www.classicrockpodcast.com and for download through iTunes. This month Tom Keifer from 80s superstars Cinderella talks about the band's upcoming tour dates and his huge relief now that the vocal problems which have plagued him for nearly 20 years are behind him. As it's Donington time Keifer also reminisces on their two appearances there in 1987 and 2010. Zodiac Mindwarp checks in from his home in Louisiana to talk about longtime collaborator Cobalt Stargazer, why his new drummer wears gold shorts, opening for Alice Cooper and getting away with it all these years. Praying Mantis go right back to the start of the NWOBHM movement and are thankfully still treading the boards and creating new music today. Guitarist and founder member Chris Troy talks about their new EP, their history, their long-standing relationship with Iron Maiden especially former members of both bands, Dennis Stratton and Clive Burr. The Australian Pink Floyd have taken the idea of tribute acts onto another level. They've played at David Gilmour's birthday party, Nick Mason claims they're probably better than the real thing and they're now playing almost the same size arenas as Floyd did just a few years ago. Keyboard player Jason Sawford talks about how they went from pubs in Melbourne to Hampton Court Palace in London. There's music from all the above plus tracks from Motorhead and Duff McKagan's Loaded. WebLink: www.classicrockpodcast.com. WEAPON RETURN WITH SOMETHING 4 U: Weapon, Founding Fathers of NWoBHM and seminal influence on metal giants Metallica release their first single, Ready 4 U, in over 30 years, The last being , double A side, 'It's A Mad Mad World' & 'Set The Stage Alight', which reached number 2 in 'Sounds' heavy metal charts. "Metallica opened its early live sets , and the "Kill em all" album,  with "Hit the lights" a song that begins with a noisy 2 – chord flourish meant to evoke the opening of a concert. However, in a further illustration of NWOBHM's important role in Metallica's musical direction, the opening chords – drum fills and all seem to have been lifted directly from Weapon's "Set the Stage alight" The 1980 release from the influential fledgling NWOBHM band" ...Metallica Biography "Damage Incorporated" Published 2006. Frustrated by the lack of Hard Rock being played on UK radio stations due to the dominance of the influence of Hip Hop in the music charts, "Ready 4 U" is a slice of hard hitting British Rock designed to bring fist in the air and Hard Rock back to the airwaves… "Ready 4 U" Was released on digital format on Ascension day, the 5th June 2011!! Listen to a sample and download Weapon's "Ready 4 U" At itunes: itunes.apple.com/gb/album/ready-4-u-single/id438193391 / itunes.apple.com/us/album/ready-4-u-single/id438193391. At Amazon: www.amazon.co.uk/Ready-4-U-Single/dp/B00518S45O/ref=sr_shvl_album_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1306236991&sr=301-1. At Tesco: www.tescoentertainment.com/store/mp3/the-weapon--ready-4-u!/2%3a53921063/. Official Website link: www.weaponrock.com / www.facebook.com/#!/weapon.band. Help the guys in their quest to put some Rock back in the charts by "Liking" the new facebook page: www.facebook.com/pages/Help-Weapon-to-put-some-ROCK-back-in-the-Charts/157146144352595.

 

 

Friday, June 17, 2011

SWEDISH MELODIC ROCK CHAMPIONS WORK OF ART ARE IN PROGRESS ON THEIR SECOND ALBUM: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of the anticipated second album from the Swedish aces of melodic rock Work Of Art In Progress on August 23 in North America and August 26 in Europe. Following the much acclaimed debut record Art Work, Work Of Art have not been resting on laurels. While main songwriter and guitarist Robert Sall contributed heavily to the success of the W.E.T. project with Jeff Scott Soto and Erik Martensson and singer Lars Safsund kept busy singing on other projects, Work Of Art have been working hard to create the foundations of another amazing piece of music. "A lot of blood, sweat & tears went into the making of this album and I think it shows. Maybe we didn't change the formula all that much" tells Robert Sall, "but we certainly made sure to write, perform and produce at our very best and I think we've taken a huge step forward on In Progress". And in reality In Progress gives the Melodic Rock fans exactly what they're looking for, with songs that stick in the ears from the first second and amazing musical licks. The new album shows three musicians who have matured a lot their abilities and gel together in a very natural way, presenting a sound which – still encompassing different influences – is now defined and recognizable as their own. "This time we are definitely planning to play live in support of this record and we're set up for our live debut so, the wheels are in motion!" promises Sall. So watch out for further news from the Swedish rockers! The first single The Great Fall will be exclusively distributed in Sweden through Sweden Rock Magazine in the issue that will hit the streets on July 19. This special release will include two exclusive acoustic bonus tracks (unavailable elsewhere): Once Again and Until You Believe. "In Progress" will include the following songs: The Rain; Nature Of The Game; Once Again; Never Love Again; Eye Of The Storm; Until You Believe; The Great Fall; Call On Me; Emelie; Fall Down; Castaway; One Step Away. Includes bonus videoclip: The Great Fall. You can enjoy the album EPK below. The Great Fall can be exclusively listened in streaming on the Frontiers Records web radio: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Work of Art: Robert Sall – guitars, keyboards / Lars Safsund – lead vocals, keyboards / Herman Furin - drums.   xxxx The latest Frontiers Records YouTube promo spot can be viewed right here:   ELECTRIC BOYS NEW SONG HITS YOUTUBE: A brand new video clip from Electric Boys can be viewed directly below. The album is out now in Europe via Escape Music.   KELLY KEAGY AND JONATHAN CAIN TALK TO ULTIMATE CLASSIC ROCK: Ultimate Classic Rock (www.ultimateclassicrock.com) is now featuring recent interviews with Journey's Jonathan Cain and Night Ranger's Kelly Keagy. Previews of the interviews below: Kelly Keagy - What was it like having Nugent in studio with Night Ranger? Oh man, it was such a blast with Ted. The surprise in Coming of Age was that we were talking with him about coming in and playing the original solo on Coming of Age. But then we said well, what if we broke into Stranglehold and you played some of the solo from Stranglehold? He was like oh, are you kidding! So we recorded it one day and right where the normal solo starts in Coming of Age is where Stranglehold comes in. We just sat there and said play as long as you want, we don't care how long the solo is, it's not about how long the song is, just take it and run with it. He was so all over it, we had a great time with Ted. You were almost a part of Damn Yankees for the aborted third album that they were working on. How did you get into that mix? It had to be exciting for you working with that particular line-up which also included Damon Johnson of Brother Cane. That was really fun. We rehearsed for like 10 days, it was Ted, Damon, myself and Jack, it came about that Tommy had gone back to Styx and wasn't available. So there was this idea from John Kalodner to put another version of Damn Yankees together. So we came up here to see if we could do it, you know? The songs were written and we rehearsed it, but then when they got ready to actually record a record, it turns out that contractually, they had to have some of the original members back in the band, so I didn't get a chance to record with them. Nothing was ever recorded? They did a cover of Sunshine of Your Love and I got to do that and sing it as well. It never got released, so I'd sure like to hear what happened with that. There was a lot of strange things — the producer wasn't quite right for these types of projects and also timing, everybody was getting ready to go back on the road with their respective projects, so it didn't happen. But I was able to sit in the room and jam with these guys for 10 days, so I was happy as hell. Complete interview is here: ultimateclassicrock.com/night-ranger-kelly-keagy-interview/ Jonathan Cain shares plenty of details and thoughts on the new Journey album 'Eclipse' and reveals his love for the music of Bruce Springsteen and Blind Faith. Regarding 'Eclipse,' Cain discussed the band's "rock" direction on the new album and also addressed the reported tension between the band and Kevin Shirley: You've mentioned the rock thing a couple of times. Journey fans have been asking for rock albums from the band for a while, and you've really given them that now. Yeah, we sort of teased them with (2008's) Revelation, and this is more of a concept album, if you will. We went a little deeper with a message on this one. I think the Tantra thing is something we tripped on. We were like wow, this is what the world needs to think about. Anytime you can get the chance to take a look your soul and how you relate to Gods universe, that's heavy stuff. But it's done in such a way that this is what we discovered about life in general. I just really feel that an ancient belief like that works in today's world. In the age of streaming media, when everything's flying at the speed of sound, you gotta slow down and smell the roses, really. And that's kind of what we're saying here. The beauty in that blue sky is in your heart, so you can find it if you look for it. It's right in front of you. Sometimes we get so caught up in the whole day-to-day grind that we forget the perfection that we live in, and we live around, and I just think that's a good message right now. For Journey to be bringing it, and with Arnel being a Buddhist, it all just lines up perfectly. In a world where so many people have moved past the importance of album art, it really had to be fun for you guys to work on the art for this new album, which really is a classic Journey album cover. Oh, it's great. Here in Europe, we actually have vinyl. There's a vinyl release out [of 'Eclipse'] and it's just gorgeous to see it again. And you're like you know what? We gotta do this in the States. So were planning on trying to bring that vinyl somewhere and distribute it, maybe 5000 copies and just put em out there. Because we feel it goes back to that and that's where we came from, that's our heritage. So now we become the alternative. [Laughs] Have you gotten sucked back into vinyl? I have been playing vinyl, a lot of my old albums and for my kids, because I want them [to hear the right stuff]. My sons got all the Zeppelin stuff, and he's amazed at how different it sounds. I actually do have a turntable in my studio, I've always had my turntable. [Laughs] I still play those Steely Dan records and marvel at wow, what is it about the sound that's so cool? Its just something else to trip on. The complete interview with Cain: ultimateclassicrock.com/journey-jonathan-cain-interview/ NEW LIFE BACK INTO HYDROGYN: Julie Westlake is now officially back in the saddle and leading the new revamped charge of her band Hydrogyn. After months of uncertainty surrounding the band due to her health, the green light has been given to Julie and the band to proceed ahead. The band had a great outing with the Judgement release in October of 2010 but do to Westlake's health the band only played one show to support it. After careful consideration it was decided to scrap the support of the release due to Julie's illness and the length of time the project had been out. In place of that will be a new release and a double support of Judgement. The new product is yet unnamed but the process of recording has already started. For this release things will change up a bit as far as production. For the past 2 releases Jeff Westlake has handled the production, engineering, mixing etc to go along with the writing and song prep. Westlake said he wanted a chance to just worry about the songs on this release with limited production going on from his end. Enter in the team of Anthony Dura and Patrick Liotard (who co wrote Alone on Judgement). Anthony and Patrick are stepping in and teaming up with Julie and Jeff for this project, not only from a production standpoint but also in the creation of the project itself. "I love these guys and what they bring to the table" says Westlake. "To be able to turn to them and have a new team in the mix for the entire process with fresh ideas and a great perspective as well is just priceless. We were all introduced by our French team at Musiconlights (Mike Jublin) back in 2007 and as time has gone on and we have gotten to know each other. The working part of the relationship is just a natural progression for us all and takes some pressure off of Jeff for a change." In addition, John C Lawrence who brought in Too Late for Judgement, is also being brought in again for some co writing. "I love some of the stuff he has to offer and also he and Jeff have been friends for a very long time so it just seems natural to have him involved." says Julie. The to be titled release has a release date of November stamped on it and the band is currently wrapping up writing and has already recorded a few tracks. "We totally expect to be done recording and wrapping the CD up musically in late summer, then a holiday break for a couple weeks and then back to mixing and mastering late summer." said Jeff Westlake. In the meantime the band said they will be getting the art work together and finalizing the new U.S. deal along with management. WebLink: www.hydrogyn.com. MRX UPDATE: MRX has been upaded once again with 5 new special downloads feature more rare 'lost' melodic rock demos from 5 cool artists: - Palma - Demos (UK 87 - 88)(8 Tracks) - Paul Godfrey Band - Demos (5 Tracks) - Perfect Strangers - Demos (UK & Holl.)(16 Tracks) - Peter Yttergren - Demo (Swe)(13 Tracks) - Renegade - Singles & Demos (SWE)(18 Tracks) MRX Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, June 16, 2011

BAD COMPANY LIVE AT WEMBLEY DUE JUNE 28 IN THREE FORMATS: New York, NY ­ When legendary classic rockers Bad Company performed at the historic British venue Wembley Arena in London on a beautiful April 2010 spring night, high-definition cameras captured the whole evening in all its glory. On June 28, Eagle Rock Entertainment will release Live At Wembley simultaneously on DVD, Blu-Ray & CD, through its Eagle Vision & Eagle Records imprints. There was magic in the air as all three original Bad Company members­vocalist extraordinaire Paul Rodgers, guitarist Mick Ralphs and drummer Simon Kirke­are augmented by bassist Lynn Sorensen and guitarist Howard Leese. (Original bassist Boz Burrell died in 2006.) The set list is packed with every major hit, fan favorites and seldom-heard deep album cuts. The DVD and Blu-Ray includes a band interview. Bad Company burst upon the rock'n'roll scene in 1973, and was immediately dubbed a super-group by fans and press alike, as its members all came from very successful popular bands: Free (Rodgers and Kirke), Mott The Hoople (Ralphs) and King Crimson (Burrell). They lived up to the hype for nine straight years with a string of six soulful hard-rocking albums. After a four-year break, they got back together minus Rodgers (who had formed The Firm with Jimmy Page). Rodgers returned in 1999. DVD and Blu-Ray Track Listing 1) Can't Get Enough 2) Honey Child 3) Run With The Pack 4) Burnin' Sky 5) Young Blood 6) Seagull 7) Gone, Gone, Gone 8) Electric Land 9) Simple Man 10) Feel Like Makin' Love 11) Shooting Star 12) Rock And Roll Fantasy 13) Movin' On 14) Ready For Love 15) Bad Company 16) Deal With The Preacher. CD Track Listing: 1) Can't Get Enough 2) Honey Child 3) Run With The Pack 4) Young Blood 5) Seagull 6) Gone, Gone, Gone 7) Electric Land 8) Simple Man 9) Feel Like Makin' Love 10) Shooting Star 11) Rock And Roll Fantasy 12) Movin' On 13) Ready For Love 14) Bad Company 15) Deal With The Preacher. Video: Feel Like Makin' Love (From Live at Wembley CD, DVD & Blu-ray) - youtu.be/mQfTe6ta36I.   LOS ANGELES HARD ROCK ACT DC4 LAUNCH ˜ELECTRIC MINISTRY PRE –SALE: (Los Angeles, CA) LA based hard rockers DC4, featuring Jeff Duncan of Armored Saint and former DIO guitarist Rowan Robertson as well as bassist Matt Duncan and drummer Shawn Duncan (of Odin fame) have set Tuesday, June 7th as the start date for pre-orders of their blinding new album, Electric Ministry for North America and all other territories outside of the UK and Europe. All orders will ship on 29 July 2011. This special version of Electric Ministry comes with a bonus track, Translucent Life and may be ordered signed or unsigned. The landing pad for the pre-order can be found at:www.dc4rocks.com. Pre-orders for the album in the UK and Europe are being taken at: www.metalblade.com/dc4/. Electric Ministry's tracklisting is as follows: 01. Wrecktory 02. Electric Ministry 03. XXX 04. Rock God 05. 25 to Life 06. Broken Soul 07. People 08. The Ballad of Rock and Roll 09. Glitter Girl 10. Sociopath 11. Dirty Hands 12. Translucent Life (bonus track). Keep up to date on everything DC4 at www.dc4rocks.com and on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DC4HardRock. Follow the band on Twitter at twitter.com/#!/DC4HardRock. NWOBHM FROM ROXXCALIBUR: Roxxcalibur, who have just released their new album "Lords Of NWOBHM" on May, 20th via Limb Music (the first pressing contains a bonus DVD) and who receive nothing but great reactions to their new collection of old NWOBHM classics, are announcing a line-up change: "After guitarist Roger Dequis was forced to leave the band due to private reasons, Roxxcalibur have found a great replacement in guitarist "Holg" , former axe man of Abandoned." By the way, Roxxcalbur have uploaded the song "Satan's Serenade" (originally by Quartz) on YouTube, that you can watch at this location: www.youtube.com/watch?v=2r3wv7mNSSI. The song is also on the Roxxcalbur album "Lords Of NWOBHM".

 

 

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

PRIMAL FEAR HIT THE STUDIO: German power metallers PRIMAL FEAR will enter the studio in early July to begin recording their as-yet-untitled new album for an early 2012 release via Frontiers Records. The band states, "The songwriting session was a blast and we've never recorded a better pre-production." Primal Fear recently asked fans to submit suggestions for the new CD title and has received more than 500 responses. The band will take a break from the recording sessions for its new album to play at Germany's Wacken Open Air and Geiselwind festivals in early August. Also in the works are three shows in Poland in early September. Primal Fear recently extended its deal with Frontiers Records for two more albums after releasing the last two CDs through the label ­ 2007's "New Religion" and 2009's "16.6 (Before The Devil Knows You're Dead!)". The band says, "Never change a winning team!" Primal Fear last year released a 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". Frontiers Records issued the two products separately and as a limited-edition combo on June 22, 2010 in the USA. The DVD is filled with an abundance of extra materials, such as an entire bootleg section with funny moments on the road, bootleg footage from various festival appearances and other concerts, all of PRIMAL FEAR's most recent promotional videos, plus the making-of footage for "16.6" and a brand new interview section about the past, present and future of Primal Fear. LIVE AT FIREFEST SERIES ALBUMS ON ORDER NOW: Now available to order from www.thefirefest.com. As with all Firefest releases these albums are limited to 1000 copies of each and once they are gone, they are gone. Official release date is June 6th for all albums and pre-orders will ship on or immediately after that date. Purchase all three albums and save using the multi-buy option in the Firefest shop. Paypal Payments can be made to: firefest@hotmail.com. Shotgun Symphony - Highway to Tomorrow: Live at Firefest 2010 Eight years had passed before a chance phone call from Firefest to Charlie Calv kick started the Shotgun Symphony machine once again. Replacing a pretty well know international act on a festival bill takes guts, but in true New Jersey style, Shotgun got on with the job in hand. It was the band themselves that decided that maybe playing the entire first album song for song would be something special for band and fans alike, as it had never been done before. Whilst Charlie Calv has stayed active in the melodic rock scene, vocalist Tracy White had actually given up singing and had only bought an acoustic guitar two weeks before the Firefest question popped up stating "I just got this urge to buy a new guitar, I felt something was going to happen." Shotgun Symphony have maintained a loyal following over the years despite their inactivity, and the roar that greeted the band on their return to the UK proved that they were not there to simply make up the numbers, but continue to be hugely appreciated by a discerning melodic rock public. Is this a comeback? Who knows? Will it continue? Maybe. Excited by once again creating music, the band ventured into the studio for the first time in nine years to record an exclusive newly written track 'Can't Get Over' as a special bonus to fans buying this album, which shows that Shotgun have many miles left in the tank. October 30th 2010 was not only a special night for five guys from New Jersey, but for 1200 plus melodic rock fans that welcomed the band back with open arms - here's the proof! Tracklist: 1.Highway To Tomorrow 2.What Happens To Love 3.Way Back Home 4.Turn Around 5.Broken Promises 6.Lost Child 7.She's In Love 8.Running 9.Bitter Sweet Poison 10.Goodbye To The Night 11.Believe In Me ***Bonus Studio Track 12.Can't Get Over (Studio Track- Brand New recorded in 2011).   Strangeways - Where Do We Go From Here: Live at Firefest 2010 Recorded on Firefest Sunday, Strange ways took the stage to the acclaim of a packed Rock City without even hitting a note. The type of welcome usually reserved for homecoming heroes, well, in fact judging by the audience reaction to simply glimpsing Ian, Terry, Jim, Munch and Warren on stage they not only justified their status as musical heavyweights within this genre, but as a bona fide top of the pile AOR band par excellence with a track record to prove it. Contained here is a document of THAT performance, 22 years of hurt was dispelled for the masses that awaited the return, mixing back catalogue classics such as 'Love Lies Dying' 'Where Do We Go from Here' 'Empty Streets' and the all time mega classic 'Only a Fool' with new material such as the title track from their current studio opus 'Perfect World' the sublime 'Time' and the monstrous Zeppelin-esque 'Bushfires'. If you were at the show this is your personal memento, if you did not attend, it is the next best thing to being there. 'Where Do We Go From Here' was recorded at Firefest on Sunday October 31 in front of an adoring audience which prompted the band to deliver one of the performances of the entire weekend, and considering the quality of the bands performing over the weekend, that is some accolade. Fireworks Mark Warburton called it "an inspired set", Lazy Rocker magazine stating "they opened the doors to AOR Heaven". Production duties have been carried out by Ian J Stewart himself, and the album has been mixed and mastered by none other than Harry Hess at H Bomb Mastering. Tracklist: 1.Love Lies dying 2.Breaking Down the Barriers 3.Perfect World 4.Only A Fool 5.Empty Streets 6.Time/After The Hurt is Gone 7.Borderlines 8.Where Do We Go From Here 9.Never Gonna Lose It 10.Bushfires.   Bangalore Choir - All Or Nothin' – Live at Firefest Bangalore Choir playing the UK for the first time in their history, and proceeded to blow Rock City apart. Led by the barefoot David Reece, ably abetted by guitarist Curt Mitchell, bassist Danny Greenberg, second guitarist Andy Susmihl and drummer Hans in t'Zandt, they garnered such a reception that prompted a very emotional David Reece to shed a little tear after the performance. Centred mainly around the genre classic 'On Target' featuring a raft of immediately recognisable anthems such as 'Freight Train Rollin', 'Loaded Gun', 'Angel in Black', 'Slipping Away', 'If the Good Die Young' and 'All or Nothin', there was also room for the magnificently delivered 'Martyr' and 'Power Trippin' from the sophomore album 'Cadence'. Contained here are the twelve tracks that not only cemented Bangalore Choir's place in Firefest folklore, but opened them up to an entire new audience with the sheer power and panache of their live delivery impressing all, bar none. Exectuive producer: Curtis Mitchell. Mixed and mastered by Harry Hess at HBomb Mastering, Canada. Tracklist: 1.Wazoo City 2.Power Trippin' 3.Just one Night 4.Martyr 5.Doin' the Dance 6.Loaded Gun 7.If the Good die Young 8. Living your Dreams Every Day 9.Slippin' Away 10.Freight train Rollin' 11.Angel in Black 12.All or Nothin'.   CD SHOWCASE - MP3 ISSUE: Please Note - It has come to my attention that the recent CD Showcase uploads feature corrupted MP3 audio samples. To put it bluntly, they sound like shit and I would not want this to reflect badly upon the releases they are supposed to be showcasing. I have had soundcard issues since installing Windows 7 and hope to have a much better replacement card by the end of this week (ash cloud allowing...). I'll re-do all the recent showcases with new samples and advise when that has taken place. Feel free to continue to sample the new albums, but make allowances for the crappy MP3 quality. My apologies for any inconvenience caused.

 

 

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

TYKETTO RETURNS ON FRONTIERS RECORDS: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of a worldwide recording deal with Tyketto for the release of a brand new album in the spring of 2012! The forthcoming album will be the band's first release since the reunion and follows 1995 album Shine. The band states: "These are some of the best ideas we have worked on in years. There's plenty of the classic Don't Come Easy sound, mixed in with some new ideas and some great surprises". All four original members (Danny Vaughn on vocals, Brooke St. James on guitar, Jimi Kennedy on bass and Michael Clayton on drums) will be part of this very special come back album. While recording the new album, Tyketto hits the road with some very special shows, where the band will exclusively debut songs from the new album. Only USA Show! Tyketto :"Home for the holidays party" Wed November 23...Thanksgiving Eve! Sullivan Hall, 214 Sullivan Street, NYC, NY - Tyketto with Black Water Rising (co-headline show) www.sullivanhallnyc.com UK Dates: November 30 at Camden Underworld, London www.theunderworldcamden.co.uk December 01 at The Corporation, Sheffield www.corporation.org.uk December 2 - The Brook, Southampton www.the-brook.com December 03 at Hard Rock Hell, Prestatyn www.hardrockhell.com. Weblinks: www.tyketto.de / www.frontiers.it. MÖTLEY CRÜE RETURN TO AUSTRALIA IN SEPTEMBER: McManus Entertainment is excited to announce the return of hard rockers Mötley Crüe to Australia in September. Just when you thought it was safe to come out of the house, the world's most notorious hard rock band is back! Featuring the original line-up of Vince Neil on vocals, Mick Mars on guitar, Nikki Sixx on bass and Tommy Lee on drums, Mötley Crüe are thrilled to be coming back to Australia in September. Joining Mötley Crüe on their Australian tour is Poison frontman and star of the 'Rock of Love' TV series and recent 'Celebrity Apprentice' winner, Bret Michaels. Australian rock legend Doc Neeson, voice of The Angels, will also join this stellar rock and roll line up. "This is going to be a rockin' gig! The amount of e-mails I have received from fans begging to put on a show like this has been overwhelming. The fans spoke, we listened and it's going to rock! To have all these guys on the one bill is huge! Australia, get ready to rock," said promoter Andrew McManus. Mötley Crüe have sold more than 80 million records worldwide and are most famous for their hits Kickstart My Heart, Smokin' In The Boys Room, Shout At The Devil, Dr Feelgood, and Girls, Girls, Girls. They last toured Australia in 2005 and can't wait to thrill their Aussie fans again. These superstars of the Sunset Strip - and one of pop-glam-metal's most successful acts of the '80s - launched a specific brand of rock that would grow to rule the decade and make rock and roll what it is today. There were many popular hard rock bands from Los Angeles but none that had the theatricality, sleaze and swagger of Mötley Crüe. No band has consumed as many drugs and downed as much booze without dying as Mötley Crüe all of which was documented in 2001's New York Times best-seller, The Dirt (written by Neil Strauss) and Nikki Sixx's critically acclaimed The Heroin Diaries: A Year in the Life of a Shattered Rock Star. You've been warned Australia … Mötley Crüe are back! And this time they're bringing Bret Michaels with them! Bret Michaels first rose to fame as lead singer of glam-metal band Poison, one of rock's most iconic and enduring bands. Poison, along with Mötley Crüe, defined the fast, gritty and glamorous rock scene of the '80s. But add reality star, spokesperson, businessman and philanthropist to the list – Bret does more jobs in a single day than most people do in a lifetime! As a lifelong diabetic, he is the face of the American Diabetes Association donating $250,000 to the cause when he won Donald Trump's 'Celebrity Apprentice' in 2010. His reality show 'Rock of Love' is one of the most successful in VH1 history. Poison have sold more than 30 million records worldwide. Two of Poison's biggest hits, Nothin' But a Good Time and the anthemic, Every Rose Has Its Thorn feature on their highest selling album from 1988, Open Up and Say… Ahh! Proudly presented by MAX, Triple M and Australian Guitar Magazine. Tickets go on sale from 9am on Tuesday 21 June via the below outlets: Wednesday 21 September Brisbane, Riverstage (18+) www.ticketmaster.com.au 136 100 Friday 23 September Sydney, Sydney Entertainment Centre www.ticketmaster.com.au 136 100 Saturday 24 September Melbourne, Rod Laver Arena www.ticketek.com.au 132 849   NEW ROCK CANDY TITLES OUT NOW: Two new Rock Candy titles are now available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price of £10.99 for the next two weeks ending on June 27. Kansas 'Vinyl Confessions' CANDY095 / Despite the fact that Kansas went relatively unheard of in Europe, they were one of America's most successful rock bands during the mid to late '70s. Their brand of progressive pomp rock had spawned several multi platinum albums and hit singles, including the ubiquitous radio staples 'Carry On Wayward Son' and 'Dust In The Wind'. However, by the early 80s all was not well within the Kansas camp. Singer Steve Walsh had elected to leave the band, paving way for the appointment of a new vocalist, the previously unknown John Elefante. Recorded in Los Angeles at Chateau Recorders with producer Ken Scott (Supertramp, Jeff Beck) and featuring Queen's Roger Taylor on backing vocals, the band crafted a winning slice of melodic rock with all the twists and turns that you might expect from such masterful musicians. 'Vinyl Confessions', originally released in 1982, manages to remain true to the roots of Kansas, while at the same time noticeably moving from the band's traditional sound of the '70s into the more AOR-friendly '80s. The impact of spiritualism on this version of Kansas can certainly be heard in the lyrics, too, but it would be wrong to define this album as a Christian record. It doesn't attempt to bludgeon you to death with its message and, above all, it doesn't neglect the most important thing of all, which is, of course, the music. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3,000 word essay about the making of the album, interview with John Elefante and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track listing: 1. Play The Game Tonight 2. Right Away 3. Fair Exchange 4. Chasing Shadows 5. Diamonds And Pearls 6. Face It 7. Windows 8. Borderline 9. Play On 10. Cross Fire. Kansas 'Drastic Measures' CANDY096 / They say nine lives, cat's eyes. Amazingly the same can be said for Kansas. 'Drastic Measures' was the band's ninth and final studio offering before hanging up their instruments. As the prime purveyors of progressive pomp rock, Kansas ruled the roost during the '70s accruing the sort of multiplatinum success that they could only have dreamed of at the start of their career back in their hometown of Topeka, Kansas. But it wasn't just album sales that won them an immense following. Against all odds they actually scored hit singles, taking their music into the hearts and minds of a new and expansive audience. 'Drastic Measures', originally released in 1983, was the band's second album to feature new vocalist John Elefante – an appointment made necessary after the departure of Steve Walsh. Not surprisingly, the band's sound was evolving, moving with the times and displaying a more accessible timbre. Sure, the progressive rock element was still entirely audible but the songs and delivery fitted into the jet stream of men on a mission. AOR for sure but with an edge and urgency that leaves little room for debate. Produced by Neil Kernon (Queensryche, Dokken) the sound is both contemporary and sophisticated, allowing the band to fully embrace their past yet utilise the latest technology. Contains the top five rock hit single 'Fight Fire With Fire'. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 3,000 word essay about the making of the album, interview with John Elefante and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track listing: 1. Fight Fire With Fire 2. Everybody's My Friend 3. Mainstream 4. Andi 5. Going Through The Motions 6. Get Rich 7. Don't Take Your Love Away 8. End Of The Age 9. Incident On A Bridge.   xx POSSIBLY THE BEST EVER EDITION OF FIREWORKS MELODIC ROCK MAGAZINE!! #46 ON SALE NOW: The latest edition of Fireworks is out now, and is possibly our best ever issue. 100 pages packed to overflowing, bound in a thick glossy cover, and containing interviews with melodic rock icons such as Nikki Sixx, Journey, Def Leppard, Status Quo, Black County Communion, Warrant, Night Ranger, Nazareth, Foreigner & Whitesnake alongside the likes of TSO, Electric Boys, UDO, Paul Sabu, Bowling For Soup, Black Stone Cherry, Pagan's Mind, Skansis, After Hours, Reece/Kronlund and many more. Not forgetting our massive 25 pages of detailed reviews and a free cover-mounted CD featuring the following fantastic songs… 1. Night Ranger – Growin' Up In California 2. Black County Communion – The Outsider 3. Reece/Kronlund – My Angel Wears White 4. Status Quo – Rock n' Roll n' You 5. Warrant – Life's a Song 6. Enbound – Combined the Souls 7. Lionville – With You 8. Williams/Friestedt – Where To Touch You 9. Alyson Avenue – Liar 10. If Only – Ghost of You 11. Neversin – Jail 12. Doketti – Tremors 13. Armonight – Past Shadows 14. Mother of Sin – Redemption 15. Alpha Tiger – Martyr's Paradise 16. Roxxcalibur – Flying High 17: Lick and a Promise – Loser and a Fool 18. Skansis – Leaving You. ALL THIS for the bargain price of £5 plus postage! Visit the shop at www.rocktopia.net to make your order now, and help support the melodic rock scene while taking a dive into some of the best new albums around. Orders can also be made in UK by sending a cheque for £6, payable to 'Bruce Mee', and sent to Fireworks Magazine, 10 Dunnock Close, Offerton, Stockport, SK2 5XD. Be sure to state which issue you require, and enclose your return address. Digital Download Version coming soon.... (along with issues 44 & 45).   THIN LIZZY SET TO ROCK NORTH AMERICA THIS FALL OPENING FOR JUDAS PRIEST: It's almost impossible to find a modern day hard rock/heavy metal band that doesn't list Thin Lizzy as an influence. So the band couldn't have picked a better time to launch an arena tour, opening for Judas Priest on their farewell "Epitaph Tour." Comprised of a kick ass line-up featuring such Phil Lynott-era Lizzies as guitarist Scott Gorham, drummer Brian Downey, and keyboardist Darren Wharton, as well as Guns N' Roses guitarist Richard Fortus, former Almighty singer/guitarist Ricky Warwick, and bassist Marco Mendoza, Lizzy is aiming to bring the house down each night. Understandably Lizzy is looking forward to teaming up with metal legends Priest and Black Label Society this fall. "One of the big perks of being a member of Thin Lizzy is that sometimes we get to share the stage with other bands that have helped to shape the music we hear today," explains Warwick. "Judas Priest helped define a genre and I am really looking forward to seeing them on tour." Thin Lizzy became one of rock's top bands during the 1970's, on the strength of the hits "Jailbreak," "The Boys Are Back In Town," "Dancing in the Moonlight," and "Waiting for an Alibi," Lynott's poetic-yet-tough lyrics, and the highly influential dual guitar attack of Gorham and which ever second guitarist he was paired up with at the time (Brian Robertson, the late Gary Moore, Snowy White, or John Sykes). Lizzy split up in 1983, before Lynott passed away in 1986. However, Lizzy's stature has continued to grow over the years, as their songs have been covered by a wide variety of artists, including Metallica ("Whiskey in the Jar"), Smashing Pumpkins ("Dancing in the Moonlight"), Bon Jovi ("The Boys Are Back In Town"), Sade ("Still in Love with You"), the Foo Fighters ("Bad Reputation"), and Mastodon ("Emerald"), among other rock bands. Gorham especially is looking forward to Lizzy's triumphant return to the States. "We love playing in the USA and it will be great to show the rest of the States what we are made of. We are all fired and ready to kick some ass!" For more information, visit: www.thinlizzyband.com. LIVE FROM DARYL'S HOUSE CREATES SWEET SOUL MUSIC WITH MAYER HAWTHORNE, BOOKER T. GUESTING: New school meets old school when rising soul sensation Mayer Hawthorne and legendary Memphis organ player Booker T. Jones join Daryl Hall on a special two-part episode which premieres with the 43rd edition of Live From Daryl's House. The newest installment of the Webby and MTV O Music award-winning Internet series, which last year made its broadcast debut on WGN America to impressive ratings, will debut at www.lfdh.com on June 15, followed by an episode featuring Daryl and Booker T. with Hawthorne as the guest artist on July 15. Mayer Hawthorne was born in Ann Arbor, MI, listening on the car radio to the rich soul music coming out of the Motor City. He counts Isaac Hayes, Leroy Hutson, Mike Terry and Barry White among his influences, but draws the most inspiration from Smokey Robinson, Curtis Mayfield and the legendary Motown songwriting team of Holland-Dozier-Holland, which he shares with Daryl. After several critically acclaimed releases for the independent Stones Throw label, Hawthorne signed with Universal Republic for his upcoming new album, How Do You Do, and is currently on tour with Bruno Mars and Janelle Monáe. "I'm all about fun, and Live from Daryl's House was one of the most fun things I've ever done," enthused Hawthorne. "I want to be there every month." Accompanied by the great keyboardist Booker T. Jones, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member from his work with the renowned Stax Records group Booker T and the MGs, which also included guitarist Steve Cropper, bassist Donald "Duck" Dunn and drummer Al Jackson Jr. ("Green Onions"), Hawthorne and Daryl performed a six-song set for the first installment of the two-part series. "I love the 'at home' atmosphere of performing 'at Daryl's House'," marveled Jones. "Daryl's immediate and extended family stay near and furnish his guests with food, warmth and an audience." Hawthorne sings four of his own originals, including "A Strange Arrangement," the title track from his 2009 debut album; "Just Ain't Gonna Work Out," his first single; "No Strings," released in April as a 10" single, and "Your Easy Lovin' Ain't Pleasin' Nothin'," a song featured on an episode in the fourth season of TV's Ugly Betty. In addition, Mayer and Daryl perform a pair of Daryl Hall & John Oates classics, "You Make My Dreams Come True" and "Private Eyes." Says Daryl: "This kid is the real deal. He and I share musical tastes, and it's so great seeing a young artist like Mayer embrace classic soul and R&B. He's part of a new wave that I call 'NU-Soul.'" The past two years have marked a steady stream of superlatives and recognition for Live from Daryl's House, with Hall receiving a Webby Award for Best Variety series from more than 10,000 entries at the 14th annual ceremony last year at N.Y.'s Cipriani Wall Street, then recently garnering an O Music Award from MTV. The 42 previous episodes of Live From Daryl's House have featured a mix of well-known performers Rob Thomas, Train, Smokey Robinson, The Doors' Robby Krieger and Ray Manzarek, Toots Hibbert, Nick Lowe, K.T. Tunstall, Todd Rundgren, Travie McCoy, Dave Stewart, Goo Goo Dolls' John Rzeznik and Fall Out Boy's Patrick Stump along with newcomers such as Eric Hutchinson, Chromeo, Cash Money rocker Kevin Rudolf, Matt Nathanson, Parachute, Plain White T's, Eli "Paperboy" Reed, soul diva Sharon Jones, Diane Birch, L.A. neo-R&B party band Fitz & the Tantrums, hot new alternative band Neon Trees and veteran alternative mainstays Guster. Daryl launched the free monthly webcast in November, 2007, after having the light-bulb idea of "playing with my friends and putting it up on the Internet," and the show has since garnered acclaim from Rolling Stone, SPIN, Daily Variety, CNN, BBC, Yahoo! Music and influential blogger Bob Lefsetz, who have cited Live From Daryl's House as a perfect example of a veteran artist reinventing himself in the digital age by collaborating with both established and newer performers. The show marked its broadcast debut New Year's Eve on super station WGN American in Chicago, where its improved ratings for the time period almost 75%. Daryl also recently performed a live version of the show with friend and former LFDH guest, Todd Rundgren, to a sold out venue in Atlantic City.

 

 

Monday, June 13, 2011

ESCPAE BUILDING BRIDGES WITH NEXT RELEASE: Escape Music announce their next scheduled release - the debut album from Bridger, set for release in Europe on July 19. Bridger is: Terry Ilous: (XYZ, Great White) Vocals; Glen Bridger: (Head East) Guitars; Greg Manahan: (Head East) Bass; Danzoid: Drums and Percussion; Sam McCaslin: (Michael Schenker, Carmine Appice) Keyboards. Additional Players: Jk Northrup: Guitars and Bass; Larry Hart: (Montrose, King Kobra, Shortino-Northrup) Bass; Eddy Jones: (Head East) Drums and Percussion; Marcus Nand: Drum loop programming, Keys and Guitars; Mark Murtha: (London Drive) Keys, Electric and Steel guitar; Pat Fontaine: (XYZ) Additional lyrics. Produced by: Terry Ilous / Co-produced: JK Northrup. Track Listing: 01 Tuesday Afternoon, 02 How Long, 03 On The Ledge, 04 Don't Push Me, 05 Without A Sound, 06 Free, 07 Live For The Moment, 08 Good To Be Home, 09 Gonna Get Better, 10 Once In A Lifetime, 11 Heaven And Hell. Glen Bridger was born in Albany, MO and grew up in the Kansas City area. He started playing guitar at the age of 13 after hearing the band Van Halen, whose influence is immediately recognizable in Glen's playing today. He was awarded a scholarship to play baseball in college, but by his senior year he decided that he would rather play music than baseball and left college to pursue his music career. Glen developed his guitar playing skills by studying magazines like "Guitar World" and "Guitar For The Practicing Musician" which helped him land the lead guitar spot in several of Kansas City's top bands including Faze One, and London Drive before joining Head East as their lead guitarist as well as writing new material with them. Glen's songs "Me and My Whiskey" and "One night" have already been added to the Head East set list. Bridger is an exciting new band featuring some great musicians such as vocalist Terry Ilous, who has a naturally powerful voice that will just blow the speakers. This debut features straight ahead rockers that smack of Great White and Mr. Big as well as softer numbers such as "Live for the moment" and "I'm Free". There is also the fantastic "Don't Push Me" which is like a cross between Head East and Journey. After a slow intro this song then rips out with great guitar and keyboard interplay. Bridger also perform a very credible version of Dio's Heaven and Hell. Bridger is a fantastic album; it is so good to see that the US anthemic rock sound is still very much alive. Download this exclusive 2 minute edit of the track: Don't Push Me.

 

 

Friday, June 10, 2011

JOURNEY ECLIPSE TOUR AND CHART INFO: The Journey European tour is off to an amazing start in the UK, beginning with a SOLD OUT show at the Wembley Arena last weekend. A few live reviews for you, as well as the amazing look on BBC TV Breakfast show: www.bbc.co.uk/news/13646674. Concert Reviews: www.expressandstar.com/entertainment/2011/06/06/concert-review-journey-in-birmingha/#ixzz1OWgM6wRD www.chroniclelive.co.uk/entertainment-in-newcastle/music/2011/06/08/review-journey-foreigner-and-styx-72703-28842174/#ixzz1Oi3TW1TN www.gigwise.com/photos/63658/12/Journey-Foreigner-Styx-Play-Londons-Wembley-Arena. Journey's new album Eclipse entered the album national charts in the following countries in the week of release: Germany - # 14 / Japan - # 19 / Switzerland - # 24 / UK - # 33 / Sweden - #36 / Netherlands - #44.   NIGHT RANGER'S JACK BLADES CHECKS IN FROM JAPAN: Night Ranger frontman Jack Blades checked in a couple of times this week from Japan. Here's what Jack had to say: "Hello! Landed here in Tokyo yesterday, funny in that there was no line whatsoever in the foreigners entering Japan lanes. Brad and I just walked right in to the customs guy. Guess people are still wary of traveling to Japan because of the Fukishima thing... We do Masa Ito's big radio show tonight at Midnight! Brad and I are playing 2 new song acoustically on the show - "Growin up in Calif" and "Bye Bye Baby" - that's if the jetlag doesn't kick in too bad!!! It is good that we are here to put smiles on the Japanese fan's faces...they have been through so much... more later..." ~ Jack. And: "Just got back from 1st show in Osaka. Packed venue...wow what an audience! Sang the songs louder than us! We played songs off the Somewhere in California record...opened with Rock N Roll Tonight and also played Growin' Up In California, Lay It On Me, No Time To Lose Ya. Also lots of favorites like Touch of Madness, Sing me away, Secret of My Success, 4 in the Morning, When you close your eyes, Eddie's coming out tonight, Sister c, Sentimental St., Don't tell me you love me, you can still rock in America....gonna change the set up each night and add different songs. We are off to Nagoya tomorrow by Bullet train for Show tomorrow night then to Tokyo. I can tell you by first hand experience that You can still Rock In JAPAN!" ~ Jack.   LOUD LION PAYING HOMAGE TO DEF LEPPARD: Loud Lion is a project in development set to pay tribute to Def Leppard and Mutt Lange, by emulating the sound made famous by the guys, just with new original tunes. The band features: Robbie Royce - Lead Vocals; Bleu Mcauley (Bleu, L.E.O., The Major Labels) - Rhythm Guitar, Keyboards, Background Vocals; Taylor Locke (Rooney, Taylor Locke & The Roughs) - Rhythm And Lead Guitars, Background Vocals; Adam Ross (Yours Til Death) - Lead Guitar; Allison Robertson (The Donnas) - Lead Guitar; Maclaine Diemer (Bang Camaro) - Rhythm Guitar; John Fields (Producer) - Bass; Dylan Halacy (Bang Camaro) - Drums. Check out one full track now at: bit.ly/myKU9I. No release date for the album has yet been set. More info: www.myspace.com/loudlion.   INTRODUCING JAMIE ALLEN - ALBUM PRODUCED BY JOHNNY LIMA: U.S. singer/ songwriter and Poison Tribute frontman Jamie Allen has released his debut rock album The Storyteller. Wanting to get a head start from the beginning, Jamie brought Johnny Lima (Freakshow, Diamond Lane, Miss Crazy) on board to produce the album, as well as lend a hand with guitar work and background vocals. "I wanted to do it right the first time" said Jamie, "and with Johnny's killer production mixed with all the big hooks I had written for the album, I knew that it would be the perfect recipe for hard rock bliss!" Recorded in San Jose, California and mastered at Trillium Sound in Canada, "The Storyteller" is packed with "Big Hit" sounding songs that blue collar people will be able to relate to. "Lyrically I tried to cover the subjects that have been going on in my life the past few years, weather it be looking back on ex-girlfriends (Ghost Of My Hometown, Same Old Feeling), having management pull the wool over your eyes (Smoke & Mirrors), thinking back to a time in your life when you didn't have a care in the world (Back In The Day), or taking the band on the road (The Way I Roll, Time Alone, That's Rock N Roll)". Jamie comments. Jamie also has a place in his heart reserved for the rock ballad, which is evident in the big power ballad "Reminiscin' " and the heart touching "I'm On My Way". Jamie Allen will be joined by Kenny Turcott, (lead guitar, vocals); Christine Gaisser, (Bass, Vocals) and Bobby Taylor, (drums) and will be playing a ton of dates this summer, so be sure to catch the album live! Sample right here at Jamie's CD Showcase. Purchase via: itunes.apple.com/us/artist/jamie-allen/id430439881 and www.cdbaby.com/jamieallen.   LION MUSIC ARTIST UPDATES: Lion Music are proud to introduce some true musical treasure in the form of this special release from the early days of one of the worlds most accomplished guitarists, James Byrd. A name synonymous with some of the finest guitar work committed to tape, this unique release is an album any fan of the former Fifth Angel guitarist will have been longing to hear and serves as a reminder of just how good a songwriter and musician Byrd is. Comprised of 14 never before heard performances and 7 new songs, Beyond The Pillars is -literally- a lost album. The material's origins date to when James Byrd began writing and recording with vocalist Freddy Krumins within days of departing Fifth Angel in the summer of 1987, with much of the music material Byrd had originally intended for the second Fifth Angel album. Like Deep Purple's Smoke on the Water release, Beyond The Pillars was recorded on location. Brain Storm Productions mobile captured the band's magic at the infamous Music Bank sound stages in Seattle Washington from the fall of 1987 through the winter of 1988. Fans of Byrds solo debut James Byrds Atlantis Rising (Shrapnel Records) will recognise 7 of the track titles on offer here. However the versions here showcase a rawer, heavier and more immediate delivery to those that were later re-recorded on the now out of print Atlantis Rising release by Shrapnel Records. Further treasures are revealed in 7 never released songs rich in diversity and depth that make this a must own part of any Byrd, or indeed Fifth Angels fans music collection. The forgotten masters that make up Beyond The Pillars were undiscovered until early 2011 when Freddy Krumins was going through a box of old tapes. Regarding the discovery of the recordings, James Byrd comments, "I was shocked to have had these masters turn up, and then to hear the quality. I had long forgotten the sessions after almost 25 years of other musical activities. Everything sounds better than I could have imagined and I think my playing was on a higher energy level than what later ended up on the J.B.A.R. debut. I knew it needed to be heard." On the musicians aim almost 25 years ago Byrd recalls, "The goal was to create a musical statement which was melodic and dynamic." This material's character is further shaped by a lyrical content which blends tales of lost love, with Greek mythology and fantasy all powered by the sublime vocals of Freddy Krumins, himself a student of legendary vocal tutor David Kyle (who also coached the likes of Geoff Tate/Nancy Wilson/Chris Cornell etc)." Beyond The Pillars sounds like no other album from an American group before or since. The combination of European influences by groups and musicians such as Scorpions, UFO, Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, Uli Jon Roth, and James Byrd's decidedly classical influences, is such that Beyond The Pillars captures the energy of a newly formed group ready to take on the world. From hard driving dark tracks tracks like Chasing The Shadows, to power ballads like I've Got To Find You, and lush instrumentals such as Requiem Atlantis, this album showcases a level of maturity and sophistication seldom heard from any band, let alone a new one from America in 1987. Track Listing: 01. Chasing The Shadows Away. 02. Fallen Warrior. 03. I Don't Believe in Love (Falling in Lust). 04. Fly To The Sun. 05. On My Mind. 06. Waiting in The Shadows. 07. Remember Love. 08. Angel of Mercy. 09. After The Fire. 10. Eye of The Storm. 11. Stranger in The Night. 12. Let it Out. 13. Gotta Find You. 14. Requiem Atlantis. Musicians: James Byrd -All Guitars, Freddy Krumins - Vocals, Ken Mary - Drums, Tim Wolf – Bass. WebLinks: www.jamesbyrd.com / www.myspace.com/guitaristjamesbyrd / www.facebook.com/officialjamesbyrd.   Early classic from Lars Eric Mattsson gets a 2011 remix and remaster for digital only release - Lion Music are pleased to announce the launch of our new purely "digital" release range. With the growing popularity of legal downloads we are using this platform to offer up some out of print classics as well as introduce some new special releases from selected artists. Virtual Mind are a progressive metal band formed by guitarist Francesco Fareri. The Debut album coming out soon is a mixture of heavy metal and progressive style with actual lyrics and personal events that influenced the total songwriting. Francesco wrote all music and lyrics trying to create something new in this genre of music. The band is composed by Francesco Fareri 7 & 8 string guitar, renowned singer Titta Tani (ex DGM, ex Astra, Ashent etc), drummer Dario Ciccioni (Twinspirits, Empyrios, Empty Tremor, Khymera etc) and bassist Emanuele Calvelli (Noumeno). Everything happened when Francesco left his last band and was searching for a singer with powerful and delicate colours of the voice and so he met Titta Tani. In few weeks Titta reviewed the songs and gave some good feedback so Francesco and his close friend Mauro Tonelli started to work on lyrics. Meantime Emanuele recorded all the bass tracks and Dario Ciccioni programmed drums exactly as he could play them. Over the following weeks the album was recorded, mixed and mastered and picked up by Lion Music for release on their digital album network in mid 2011. 2nd guitar instrumental from this fluid Italian guitarist with a style that mixes rock with some modern fusion idioms. First heard on his 2007 Lion Music release Unstable Balance, Massimo has delivered a potent second release of 9 new instrumentals all of which showcase his flawless lead technique over strong rhythmic bedrocks. Fans of the likes of Greg Howe will get a kick out of Massimo Izzizari's work with the albums title summing up the musicianship contained within. 1988's original version of "Eternity" marked the recording debut of guitarist/composer Lars Eric Mattsson. What this early release for Europe and Japan lacked in production budget was more than made up for in the strength of song. The album them got a revamp in 2001 when Lars saw fit to completely re-record the album for its 2001 re-issue for CD on Lion Music. Now some 10 years later having been out of print for a few years, and after numerous requests for a re-release Mattsson decided to improve the sound further for this new digital only version. "Eternity" in 2011 has seen a remix from the earlier re-recorded 2001 version and has also been remastered to provide optimum sound for the digital age. With all guitar, bass and keyboard instrumentation coming from Lars Eric Mattsson, Bjorn Lodin (Baltimoore) provides the albums gritty vocals whilst long-time Mattsson associate Eddie Sledgehammer performs drums. Stylistically the album harks back to the age from when the material was penned (mid 1980's) and showcases a neo-classically accented hard rock/metal sound. Fans of Mattsson's more progressive leanings will still find plenty to savour in the lead guitar work on offer. Whilst the dark mystical metal leanings of the song craft lend the album a quality along the lines of 80™s classic Dio, Yngwie Malmsteen and early Europe making this one re-issue not to miss. Available now on iTunes at: itunes.apple.com/album/eternity-remastered/id439748101. MELODIC BRIEFS: Aussie Tahir Bise is doing another Hard Rock Special with host Simon Lukic on Triple R 102.7fm on Monday the 13th June. He asked I mention it "so people can actually hear some great hard rock music on the airwaves for once." Hear hear! Triple R FM is broadcast via the internet at: www.rrr.org.au. The broadcast times are: Melbourne, Australia: 12 AM - 2 AM, New York, USA: 10 AM - 12 PM, Los Angeles, USA: 7 AM - 9 AM, London, UK: 3 PM - 5 PM, Berlin, Germany: 4 PM - 6 PM, Helsinki, Finland: 5 PM - 7 PM, Tokyo, Japan: 11 PM - 1AM. A short Q&A with Neil Daniels about his Journey book: metalshrineblogg.blogspot.com/2011/06/q-med-forfattaren-neil-daniels-neil.html#links. The Blackmore/Carey Band will perform at a festival in Norway, on the 27th of August, with Eirikur Hauksson (Ken Hensley's Live Fire/Magic Pie) on (co-)vocals, performing tunes such as "Tarot Woman", "Stargazer", and "Kill The King", amongst others. Bass & drums are handled by highly profiled norwegian hard rock musicians, reputedly TNT'ers, these last 2 not yet named. IN LEGEND - ALBUM IN STORES JUNE 14 VIA SPV/SYNTHETIC SYMPHONY: In Legend, the world's first "Piano Metal" band is preparing to release their new album Ballads 'N' Bullets June 14 on SPV/Synthetic Symphony. Traditionally, most rock bands are dominated by guitars. Not so the case with In Legend, where the mother of all instruments is the "key" component: The piano. With an uncompromising feeling for hard and flowing melodies, the ivories are hammered by Bastian Emig to an unexplored extreme. In the process he has come to understand the unique, symbiotic union of the percussive and melodic instrument in order to create rousing and sweeping songs. In Legend is the essence of an artistic process that has been pulsating in the heart and maturing in the soul of Bastian during the last 10 years. And piece by piece it has been forged and hammered into the evoking sound which now characterizes it: The perfect blend of hard, soft, and uncompromising passion! Today The New Review is offering an exclusive first listen to In Legend's "Ballads 'N' Bullets" in its entirety at: thenewreview.net/all-access/album-stream-in-legend-ballads-n-bullets. Also be sure to check out a track by track overview of from Bastian Emig as well as an in depth review of this ground-breaking new album. In Legend does in no way, try to exclusively create a brand new type of sound. It is the songs which take the listener on a new aural experience. Influenced by the rhythmical feeling and atmosphere of Burkina Faso on the African continent where he spent his early childhood, Bastian has developed into one of the finest drummers in the German rock scene. He has toured with metal and rock 'n' roll bands all across Europe and was also able to win the hearts of the Chinese fans as the drummer for the thrash metal band NARAKAM with whom he spent the years 2006 and 2007 in China. He is currently also the drummer for the world's only metal a-cappella band Van Canto. Together with this extraordinary talent, Bastian's unmistakable voice ubiquitously brings together all aspects which can also be found in his drumming: Intensity, energy, and passion. With their CD "Ballads N´ Bullets", In Legend looks to bring their unique sound to the world. LINE-UP: Bastian Emig - piano, vocals, Daniel Wicke - bass, Dennis Otto - drums. Y&T ROCK THE HIGH SEAS -- MONSTERS OF ROCK CRUISE 2012: Join Y&T on the Monsters of Rock Cruise, February 25-28, 2012 to the Bahamas...Line-up includes: Tesla, Cinderella, Stryper, Y&T, Kix, Lynch Mob, Firehouse, Keel, Black 'N Blue, Faster Pussycat, Bang Tango, Eric Martin, John Corabi...Eddie Trunk & Big John Murray. Fort Lauderdale - Bahamas - Key West. Tickets on sale June 13, 2011 @ noon Pacific time. Please check back on the Y&T web site for your Y&T promo code, which will get you special discounts & deals! MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Mr Big - Live From The Living Room (audio from Full Length Japan TV Broadcast, MP3, 90 mins) - Slam - Demos (Sweden Indie, 1993)(9 Tracks) - Solodancer - Demos (USA 1992)(4 Tracks) - The Blitz - Demos (USA 1992)(3 Tracks) - The Fanatics - Demos (USA 1990)(9 Tracks) And the following new Video Clips: Slash - Beautiful Dangerous, Aina - It's Only Love, Coldspell - Night Falls, Ari Koivunen - Hear My Call & Tears Keep Falling, Bert Heerink - Panic Attack. Help support MelodicRock.com - Join MRX Members area for all this and much more. CD SHOWCASE: Playing catch up all week...continuing with the addition of some great new CD Showcases - Night Ranger, Def Leppard & Whitesnake (Frontiers Records); Lionville, Alyson Avenue & If Only (Avenue Of Allies Music); David Mark Pearce & Reece Kronlund (AOR Heaven) and a brand new indie release - Jamie Allen (produced by Johnny Lima). Check them out now! Thanks again to everyone for showing patience once again as I recover from my stay in hospital. I feel back to 100% today and the staff infection that got into my system has been cleaned right out. I realize there is an absolute truck load of things need doing - I'll be working through those things over the next 2-3 weeks. Coming up - a TON of new Reviews (major and in brief); more Showcases; MRR news for Taxxi, Riverdogs and Rick Springfield Tribute; update on the brand new MR.com site and I am still trying to complete the 2009/2010 MelRock Awards (lists at least), which seem continually cursed from completetion. Maybe even a Feature Interview or 3....but who with??

 

 

Thursday, June 09, 2011

A TRUE WORK OF ART FOR AOR FANS: Check this out folks. Your exclusive first peak into the new Work Of Art album In Progress - due out in August from Frontiers Records. Download this extended sample of the lead track The Rain.   WILLIAMS/FRIESTEDT MAKES SWEDISH CHART: WILLIAMS/FRIESTEDT's self-titled debut album – released on May 27 on AOR Heaven - this week debuted at the official Swedish album charts at #46 with distributor Sound Pollution in this country! "Williams/Friestedt" is the first release of singer Joseph Williams (Toto) and guitarist/ song-writer Peter Friestedt. A promo clip for the album can be found here: youtu.be/dCD2MvK9hPo. Joseph Williams was the lead vocalist with Toto during the mid-to-late 1980s ("Fahrenheit", 1986 and "The Seventh One" – 1988). He also has been busy as a composer of film and drama scores, as a session vocalist, backing singer for the band Chicago and can be heard in Disney's animated feature film "The Lion King" as singing voice of the adult Simba ("Hakuna Matata" and "Can You Feel The Love Tonight"). Guitarist, composer, producer, major label recording artist Peter Friestedt has released two critically acclaimed albums "LA Project" (2002) and "LA Project II" (2008) that got top reviews and were called 'best Westcoast records' in years. Peter has recently toured with Chicago singer Bill Champlin, Toto singer Joseph Williams and Michael Ruff. Joseph's extraordinary vocals beautifully shine with impeccable background vocals arranged by Joseph, Bill Champlin and Lars Säfsund (Work Of Art). The line-up on this release includes guests such as former Chicago singer Bill Champlin, Tommy Denander, John "JR" Robinson, Randy Goodrum and Bill Cantos."Williams/ Friestedt" was produced by Peter Friestedt and co-produced by Joseph Williams with executive production handled by Joey Carbone; mixed by Ronni Lahti (Talisman, Lake Of Tears) and mastered by Björn Engelmann (Rammstein, Roxette). During summer 2011, Joseph Williams once again will tour as lead vocalist with Toto. WebLink: www.peterfriestedt.com / www.josephwilliams.totoweb.org.   RICHIE BACK IN THE JOVI FOLD: From Gibson.com: "Richie Sambora, Bon Jovi guitarist, is ready to rejoin Bon Jovi's European tour. The 51-year-old guitarist was at New York's John F. Kennedy Airport on Sunday and told TMZ.com he's "doing excellent," before saying he had no plans to stay in the city because he was "going out to Europe right now." The veteran rock star entered rehab for exhaustion and alcohol abuse in April after spending most of 2010 on tour. "Richie has had a busy year," a friend told RadarOnline.com. "I think this was a culmination of the things that overloaded his life and finally he realized he needed to take care of himself." In 2007, Sambora checked into rehab following his divorce from Heather Locklear, his wife of 16 years, and the death of his father. Sambora's likely return comes in time for a global broadcast of Bon Jovi's Munich show on 12 June. The band will be streaming the first 30 minutes of their show live from Olympic Stadium in Munich, Germany, in front of an 80,000 strong audience and millions watching via the Internet, courtesy of Ustream. DREAM THEATER ANNOUNCE A DRAMATIC TURN OF EVENTS AS TITLE OF NEW ALBUM: (New York, NY): The recent announcement that Mike Mangini would be joining Dream Theater, replacing departed drummer Mike Portnoy, caused such fanfare that Mangini was a trending topic on Twitter, second only to England's Royal Wedding. Now, the band is revealing more information about their upcoming album. The new album is titled A Dramatic Turn of Events. The much-anticipated platter, which marks Mangini's recorded debut, will be released via Roadrunner Records on September 13 and will be supported by a massive world tour. "I'm incredibly psyched with the way this album came out and can't wait to share it with everybody," guitarist John Petrucci, who also serves as the producer for A Dramatic Turn of Events, said. "We are currently in the mix stage with the great Andy Wallace and it's all sounding amazing!" "We have poured our hearts and minds into the creation of this album," keyboardist Jordan Rudess offered. "All the life changing events that surrounded us before, as well as during the whole process, fueled our desire to dig deep within ourselves and create the best music we possibly could." Vocalist James LaBrie said, "In the grand scheme of Dream Theater's career, the last several months have been such an incredibly positive, fulfilling and rewarding experience. The new songs and sound has never been so spirited or rejuvenating. I cannot wait for every one of our fans to sink their audio senses into this batch of tunes." The track listing for A Dramatic Turn of Events is as follows: 1. On the Backs of Angels 2. Build Me Up, Break Me Down 3. Lost Not Forgotten 4. This is the Life 5. The Shaman's Trance 6. Outcry 7. Far From Heaven 8. Breaking All Illusions 9. Beneath The Surface. RUBICON CROSS EP OUT NOW: FireHouse vocalist CJ Snare & Furyon guitarist Chris Green have teamed up to form one of the best new, most talked about, Modern, Heavy Metal, Melodic Rock bands, called Rubicon Cross! This teaser EP is certain to become the new "Soundtrack For Your Summer". It is available now through iTunes, Amazon.com , as well as limited copies from the bands website! WebLinks: www.rubiconcross.net / www.cjsnare.com. Here is what people are buzzing about.... Rock Eyez: "Just brilliant stuff…The sound is modernized and aggressively edged. 4.5 out of 5 stars" It Still Looks Fake: "the contemporary melodic hard rock world as we know it is about to be shaken to its very core." Glitter2Gutter: "Crank this interesting and enjoyable project to 8.5!"   LOVERBOY RELEASES iTUNES SINGLE "HEARTBREAKER," COLLABORATING WITH BOB ROCK FOR FIRST TIME IN DECADES: Los Angeles, June 8, 2011—Loverboy hasn't just been "Working for the Weekend," they've been pretty busy 24/7, with a new single, Heartbreaker, an upcoming live TV appearance on Fox & Friends and an anthem, Flying High, penned by singer Mike Reno for his beloved Vancouver Canucks, now battling in the Stanley Cup finals with the Boston Bruins. To celebrate the occasion, the band is offering fans a free sneak preview of the new track, "Heartbreaker," which can be streamed here: www.loverboyband.com/listen.html. It's been 30 years since Reno and Paul Dean formed Loverboy in Calgary, Alberta, and they've gone on to release four multi-platinum albums, including the four-million-selling Get Lucky and a trio of double-platinum releasing, boasting such arena-rock staples as "Lovin' Every Minute of It," "This Could be the Night," "Hot Girls in Love," "Heaven in Your Eyes," "Turn Me Loose," "When It's Over," "Heaven in Your Eyes" and "Queen of the Broken Hearts." The band recently reunited with Bob Rock, the original engineer on their 1980 self-titled debut, which was produced by Bruce Fairbairn, to record the brand-new "Heartbreaker" at Bryan Adams' Warehouse Studios in Vancouver. Since starting out with Loverboy, Rock has evolved into a hit producer for the likes of Metallica, Aerosmith, The Cure and Bon Jovi. The single will be available as a digital release on iTunes. "Bob just called Mike and me one day out of the blue and mentioned he had a song that might work for us which he'd love to produce," says Dean. "He sent it over and we just flipped out. It's a great, kick-ass Loverboy song. It was a great experience. I think this song is one of the best things we've ever done." The band is set to perform their smash, "Working for the Weekend," live on Fox News Channel's top-rated Fox & Friends June 10. A performance of the new single, "Heartbreaker," will be available as a streamed web exclusive on www.foxandfriends.com as part of the program's "All American Summer Concert Series." BONFIRE TO PLAY THE ROCK THE NATION FESTIVAL IN ST.GOARHAUSEN/LORELEY-GERMANY ON JUNE 25: The German hard rock legend Bonfire is proud to announce it's participation in the Rock The Nation Festival 2011 in the legendary amphitheatre St. Goarhausen/Loreley. The band is the last addition to the bill on Saturday June 25 and will appear alongside Journey, Foreigner, Kansas, Night Ranger and FM. 2011 marks the band's 25th anniversary. The critically acclaimed new studio record Branded has been released in January 2011.

 

 

Wednesday, June 08, 2011

DEF LEPPARD REVEAL LATEST SET LIST WITH MIRRORBALL TOUR DEBUT: Def Leppard kicked off their Mirrorball World Tour last night, 7 June, in Belfast North Ireland at the Odyssey Arena in front of 14,000 people. Thin Lizzy and Alice Cooper were in support. Tonite, 8 June, same bill at the wonderful O2 Arena in Dublin. Def Leppard setlist: 1. Undefeated 2. Action 3. Let's Get Rocked 4. Let it Go 5. Foolin 6. Make Love Like A Man 7. Love Bites 8. Sav's Bass Solo into Rock On 9. Two Steps behind 10. Bringing on The Heatrbreak 11. Switch 625 12. Rocket (Extended) 13. Hysteria 14. Armageddon It 15. Animal 16. Photograph 17. Pour Some Sugar On Me 18. Rock of Ages, Encore: 19. When Love And Hate Collide 20. Wasted. In related news, a new re-vamped re-packaged 21 track Def Leppard tribute album can be purchased via Big Eye Music at: www.amazon.com/Tribute-Def-Leppard-Greatest-Hits/dp/B004U0IKZ8. LOVERBOY HEARTBREAKERS ONCE MORE: Loverboy recently returned to the studio with producer Bob Rock to record two brand new tunes, which hopefully will be the first of several more to complete an album for 2012 release. But for now, you can at least hear and purchase one of the two new tracks. Check out the killer AOR anthem Heartbreaker at: www.loverboyband.com/listen.html.   PARADISE INC.: TITLE TRACK OF THE DEBUT AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD: 'Time', the title track from the debut album from the AOR/Hard Rock band Paradise Inc., is now available for download at the band's official website (www.paradiseinc.net). The album was mixed by Scotsman composer and producer Paul Logue (Eden's Curse, David Readman and Cry Havoc), and mastered by renowned US producer Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69), who has worked with names like House Of Lords Allen / Lande, Creek, Eden's Curse, Krokus, Place Vendome, Sunstorm and others. Paradise Inc., which includes Brazilians Rick A. (Bass), Allan Juliano (drums), Marcos Peres and De Grigo (guitars) and German singer Carsten "Lizard" Schulz (Evidence One, Midnite Club, ex-Domain), also had on the debut the Italian keyboardist Alessandro Del Vecchio (Glenn Hughes, Edge Of Forever, Eden's Curse, Time Machine and Moonstone Project) and Doogie White (Tank, Rainbow, Cornerstone, Yngwie Malmsteen and Praying Mantis). Musically, the album shows that Paradise Inc. would not venture out or stays away from the "magic formula" that works so well with the Hard Rock / AOR and Melodic Rock since the 70s. The band shows intense riffs and catchy licks, and also intense ballads, with direct references from bands like Jaded Heart, Europe, Bon Jovi, Harem Scarem and Danger Danger. THE APPICE DRUM WARS IS COMING TO VAMP'D IN LAS VEGAS JULY 9: Legendary rock drummer Carmine Appice (Ozzy Osbourne, Rod Stewart, Vanilla Fudge, Jeff Beck, Guitar Zeus, King Kobra - to name a few) has enjoyed an amazing 30 year career as a rock star, music educator, and rock pioneer. He is widely considered to be one of the most accomplished showmen in rock. He is the recipient of numerous awards including dozens of gold and platinum selling records. Carmine co-wrote such monster selling hits as "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy" and "Young Turks". He has broken new ground in very aspect of his career as a performer, as a teacher, and as a writer, and he continues to inspire drummers and listeners throughout the world with his originality and his unwavering dedication to the art of drumming. Vinny Appice has anchored the rhythm and power live and in the studio for the music of Dio, Black Sabbath, Heaven and Hell, WWIII, Axis, Rick Derringer, John Lennon, and more. He has recorded and co-written songs on over 25 albums and CDs including many multi-platinum records. Touring the world for over 2 decades resulted in selling millions of records! Vinny's drumming can also be heard on numerous movie soundtracks including "Wayne's World 2", "Heavy Metal", "Iron Eagle" and "Bedazzled". Vinny, the author of drum instruction book "Rock Steady" and DVD "Hard Rock Drumming Techniques" has performed incredible powerhouse drum clinics around the globe. Numerous books have been written about Black Sabbath and Dio with the authors always mentioned Vinny's unique powerful drumming style! www.facebook.com/pages/Appice-Drum-Wars/108122865895920#!/pages/Appice-Drum-Wars/108122865895920 Veteran hard rocker Paul Shortino, best known for his high-profile work fronting Rough Cutt and Quiet Riot. Today, when not writing and recording new material for his solo project, Shortino is developing and producing new artists for MusicWorks Entertainment (and its new label Rock Quarry Records), the firm he co-founded in 1997 with fellow musician and close friend J.T. Garrett. Shortino is renowned for a quite different—but related—performance. In the early days of Rough Cutt, a casting company rep caught them at L.A's famed Troubadour nightclub. Paul was called in to audition, decked out in a fly white leather suit. Oh, yeah, he remembers them saying when they took in his rock-star splendor--and before you could shout crank it to 11, Shortino was cast in the cult classic rockumentary This Is Spinal Tap. As the notorious Duke Fame, he's seen en route to his own sold-out Enormodome concert, strutting past Spinal Tap in a Memphis hotel: www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=215422118478741#!/PaulShortino. NEW LUVPLANET ON YOUTUBE: A personal message from Mark McGee (Luvplanet, Gregg Allman, Vicious Rumors, Stu Hamm): "I would love some assitance in getting the word out about our new Luvplanet CD Luvolution and the new video from it for the song Virtual Life. If there is a way to post this on Melodic Rock .com I would be very grateful." You bet - check it out at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLPe7lR44DE. Find Mark at: www.markmcgee.com / www.luvplanet.net. AUSSIE POP/ROCK LEGEND JOHN FARNHAM SET FOR NEW NATIONAL TOUR: John Farnham will hit the road again in November, with a concert run marking the Whispering Jack album's 25th anniversary. The Australian tour will celebrate the 25th anniversary of Whispering Jack (1986) - the highest selling album by an Australian act at the time. It is not the first time the 61-year-old Australian music legend has had itchy feet and returned to touring. In 2002, he announced his decision to retire from full-scale national tours with his hugely successful The Last Time tour. But a seven-year itch spurred him to declare he was "tired of being retired", announcing a musical comeback with a national tour Live By Demand. Read more: www.news.com.au/entertainment/music/the-voice-john-farnham. SPECIAL EDITION INCLUDING BONUS TRACK WITH 25MIN OF VIDEO BONUS FOOTAGE; DIGITAL DOWNLOAD: Karmakanic mastermind / bassist Jonas Reingold isn't out to re-invent the progressive rock wheel with the band's new album, "In A Perfect World". On the contrary, in a genre that is overpopulated with artists obsessed with often inhuman instrumental fireworks, he has delivered a package that stands out for being organic, warm, and decidedly human. And while lines can be drawn to prog rock greats like Dream Theater, Ayreon and Fates Warning, it's the hints of everything from Styx to Deep Purple to The Beatles to Yes and make Karmakanic's latest outing a seven course feast that will leave the listener hungry for more. A member of prog rock cult favorites The Flower Kings since 1999, Reingold has released four albums under the Karmakanic banner since 2002. The band is his labor of love, where he controls all aspects of the music rather than being a hired hand; a musical release that he couldn't live without. "Karmakanic is always a result of everything that I enjoy in music. I enjoy a bit of pop music, some fusion, I enjoy a bit of classic progressive rock like Genesis and those guys. I don't think much in terms of style; I just try to have fun while I compose the music. It's fun to actually do something on your own sometimes. I love being a part of The Flower Kings or any other projects I get involved with, but to actually be responsible for the whole thing - write the songs, record the album, produce and mix it - is a kick for me to do it once in a while. But, you can also get fed up with yourself if you work too much like that. Having this mix between everything is great." "In A Perfect World" is an unexpectedly smooth flow of musical styles from beginning to end. Steeped in an instantly recognizable '70s vibe, each of the seven tracks featured on the album have their own unique personalities without sounding mismatched. Whether it's the opening romp of '1969' or the smokey blues 10 minute outro of 'When Fear Came To Town', "In A Perfect World" never derails itself under the weight of its own creative genius. "Normally I try to work with a couple themes," Reingold explains. "The opening theme on '1969', for example, it reappears in the song a number of times in different shapes, different keys and tonalities, a different vibe, but I try not to change the ideas I'm working with too much. I try to keep a core running through the whole song. If you skip five minutes into the song it shouldn't be a different song. That's my main goal; therefore I try to keep things simple in terms of ideas. If I have three melodic themes going on I stick to them. I try not to put in too much information." With regards to his varied stylistic influences and the lines drawn between Karmakanic and artists outside of the prog rock genre - a box Reingold is quite comfortable in - he feels it's a natural occurrence as a product of one's environment. "When you're an artist / musician I think you're an antenna to the world, and that will always show. If there's a killer song on the radio that you hear ten times a day and you love it, it will show in your music. Not on purpose, of course, but that music gets stored in your head somewhere. Sometimes you're not even aware of what you're reflecting. I grew up with KISS in the '70s - they were my first main band that I was into - and even today I can hear them in my music sometimes. It's like, 'Oh damn, that sounds like 'She'... (laughs)'. Music is a reflection of everything around you." This time out, however, Reingold's big focus was on the lyrics for "In A Perfect World's" seven tracks. As inspired as he was to write the music, without an equal amount of time spent on the lyrics he believes the album would be lacking a backbone. Because of his lyrical focus, fans will find "In A Perfect World" much stronger than any of the band's previous releases. "I try to write about things that concern me. We had a suicide bomber here in Sweden last Christmas, and that hit me hard because you see it on television in other parts of the world, and suddenly it was in my backyard. That kind of scared me, so I wrote a song about that. I try to find a subject that is meaningful and write about it. As long as you write something that is meaningful for you, other people will respond to it." Karmakanic - In A Perfect World: 1. 1969 - 14:40 2. Turn it up - 06:53 3. The world is caving in - 08:58 4. Can't take it with you - 05:42 5. There's nothing wrong with the world - 07:22 6. Bite the grit - 04:57 7. When fear came to town - 09:54 Line up: Jonas Reingold: Fretted and fretless bass/Backing vocals, Marcus Liliequist: Drums, Göran Edman: Vocals, Lalle Larsson: Keyboards/Backing vocals, Nils Erikson: Vocals/Keyboards, Krister Jonsson: Guitars. WebLinks: www.reingoldmusic.com / www.insideoutmusic.com. ANVIL READY TO REVEAL LATEST JUGGERNAUT: SPV / Steamhammer is proud to announce the release of Juggernaut Of Justice, the new studio album of Canadian metal icons Anvil, for Europe. Available as limited edition DigiPack (incl. 2 bonus tracks), double gatefold LP in blue vinyl, standard version and download, "Juggernaut of Justice" will hit the stores in Germany on June 17th and in Europe on June 20th. Anvil has been on a rock 'n' roll journey for the past three decades, but it has become a very public rocket ride into the musical and pop culture stratosphere only recently. And that's their dedication to their music. Ever since the award-winning documentary Anvil! The Story of Anvil propelled the Canadian band from their respectable, hard-earned status as a band revered by the likes of Metallica, Motorhead and Guns N' Roses, Anvil founding members, vocalist/guitarist Steve "Lips" Kudlow and drummer Robb Reiner, have made sure that one thing remains constant. Rather than shy away from the publicity, the attention and the casual fans that are a product of this rock doc, Anvil, rounded out by bassist Glenn Five, are embracing it. "We are going after it with a vengeance," Kudlow declared. "That's how we think about life in general. Enjoy every minute, like you are winning the Cup!" While most bands that have been around as long as Anvil may be on their last legs, there's a renewed vim and vigor surrounding Anvil. That type of renewal is not common to a band with three decades of history, but Anvil have done the necessary legwork work to allow their band to be one of the most relevant heavy metal bands in existence, even as they enjoy a new and much-deserved measure of success. It's as though they truly have arrived with Juggernaut of Justice, their fourteenth studio album to be released via Steamhammer in Germany on June 17th and in Europe on June 20th. Since 2009, the band played almost every major European festival, landed opening slots on two US and one Canadian AC/DC shows that summer, one of which was performed in front of 55,000 screaming fans at Giants Stadium. Anvil also embarked on their first headline tour of America in 10 years, and headlined the main stage of Germany's Wacken, performing in front of 80,000 rabid metalheads. They ended up performing before 300,00 people that year. "We won the battle. If it was a battle, we showed the world that we are a real band, good musicians and the real deal," Reiner said, summing up the experience. "People had curiosity, going, 'Are these guys any good?' After the movie, they thought, 'How good are they?' We won them over everywhere. We made tens of thousands of new fans." The band proves it has the goods with Juggernaut of Justice, which was recorded at Dave Grohl's studio in LA, as the Nirvana/Foo Fighters guru is a friend and fan. Producer Bob Marlette (Ozzy Osbourne, Marilyn Manson) manned the boards for an album that sounds like classic Anvil and is true-to-form. Reiner even went as far as to call it the best in the band's 33-year history, declaring that "Lips sounds 20 years younger and it's fresh, clean, beautiful songs and playing that has the energy of 25-year-old kids." He's not kidding. The album is forceful enough to shift tectonic plates and generates a thrash attack that will have heavy music fans banging their heads so furiously that they burst blood vessels in their necks and purchase stock in Icy Hot. Anvil credit Marlette for "capturing the magic," which isn't simple to do. "You can't work at that," Reiner astutely pointed out. "It just happens. Either it is or it isn't. The record reeks of that positivity and there is so much freshness saturating it." Juggernaut of Justice cycles through many moods and tempos. "Swing Thing" is the band's ambitious metal-jazz track, while "Fukeneh!" is an anthem that is concert hall ready. "Paranormal" is what Reiner refers to as "the ballad," thanks to its heavy, soulful, Sabbathian vibe. "It's a powerful, evil song and that energy is very new for Anvil," the drummer said. Speed metal thrashers like "When Hell Breaks Loose" and "Running" also live on Juggernaut of Justice, while "New Orleans Voodoo" is, according to Reiner, "a downtime pounder." Overall, Kudlow and Reiner are adamant that there is no doom 'n' gloom present on Juggernaut. It's heavy and positive, which isn't common in a lot of hard rock music. Tracklisting / Content: Limited Edition Digipak incl. 2 bonus tracks: 1. Juggernaut Of Justice 3:40 2. When All Hell Breaks Loose 3:11 3. New Orleans Voodoo 4:25 4. On Fire 3:23 5. Fukeneh! 4:08 6. Turn It Up 2:57 7. The Ride 3:12 8. Not Afraid 3:44 9. Conspiracy 3:20 10. Running 2:54 11. Paranomal 7:04 12. Swing Thing 3:00 13. The Station (bonus track) 14. Tonight Is Coming (bonus track).   JOACIM CANS AND JEFF SCOTT SOTO ON STAGE TOGETHER FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 1994: Saturday July 2nd will see the premiere of heavy metal at Societetshuset in the summer resort town Marstrand (north of Gothenburg). This venue is now run by Joacim Cans of Hammerfall. This night Joacim will share the stage with Jeff Scott Soto (Yngwie Malmsteen, Journey, Talisman etc). This is the first time since 1994 that these two vocalists perform together. In the early 1990s Jeff Scott Soto was Joacim's vocal coach in Los Angeles. This is the day between Iron Maiden (playing at Ullevi Stadium July 1st) and The Big Four (playing at Ullevi Stadium July 3rd).

 

 

Tuesday, June 07, 2011

INFINITY & ANDREAS NOVAK RELEASE DATE PUSHED BACK 2 WEEKS: MelodicRock Records has been forced to revise the release dates for the Infinity and Andreas Novak releases. The new dates (due to recent illness) are: Pre-order ship date JUNE 27 Official in-store date: JULY 11. Infinity is the wonderful lost album from 1986 featuring Mitch Malloy and David Rosenthall (a pre-cursor to the Red Dawn release) and the Andreas Novak release is simply an all-killer, no filler classic AOR album with a fully updated sound. Check audio soundbytes below and please consider pre-ordering direct from MelodicRock Records via Paypal links. These pre-orders help things out immensely!   Andreas Novak - Novakation (MRR007) Track Listing and Soundbytes: 01 - Highway To Anywhere 02 - I Must Be Mad 03 - Days Of Our Lives 04 - Dare To Believe 05 - Keep This Flame 06 - No Vacation 07 - Part Of Your Plan 08 - A New Hope 09 - Light Years 10 - Mr. Cred 11 - Yesterday's Rain 12 - 2009 New album from Mind's Eye/Novak vocalist, now fronting House Of Shakira! Pre-Sales Available Now $15 + $5 shipping ($4 if buying both CDs) June 27 Advance Shipping for pre-orders July 11 OFFICIAL RELEASE.   Infinity - Infinity (MRR006) Track Listing and Soundbytes: 01 - I'm On The Edge 02 - Secrets 03 - She's On Fire 04 - Christine 05 - Let It Go 06 - Liar 07 - Promise 08 - Over You 09 - Running Classic lost album from 1986, released for the first time on any format! Featuring Mitch Malloy, David Rosenthal and Reb Beach! Pre-Sales Available Now $15 + $5 shipping ($4 if buying both CDs) June 27 Advance Shipping for pre-orders July 11 OFFICIAL RELEASE.   YES - FLY FROM HERE SET FOR RELEASE VIA FRONTIERS RECORDS: The most influential and ground-breaking progressive rock 'n' roll band in history, legendary rockers and Grammy Award winners Yes, will release their first studio album in a decade, Fly From Here, on July 1 in Europe and July 12 in North America through Frontiers Records. Their long awaited 20th studio album is the follow up to 2001's Magnification and marks the band's return with producer, Trevor Horn, who produced the band's chart topping album, 90125, in 1983 and also sang for Yes on the Drama album in 1980. Yes is Benoit David on vocals (his first studio recording with YES), Steve Howe on guitars/vocals, founder Chris Squire on bass/vocals, Geoff Downes on keyboards and Alan White on drums. Roger Dean, creator of a number of YES' most memorable album covers, also returns with his signature style for Fly From Here. "At last we have some shape and dynamics within these tracks that are truer to the original idea of what a YES recording is about," proclaims Howe. "The new album represents the best of YES from the 70s and the 80's with a current twist," Squire adds. All of the songs on Fly From Here embody that classic and now iconic Yes sound and style. The first single, "We Can Fly," (to be released digitally on June 13th) is borne from a piece of music that was written prior to the Fly writing sessions - an idea that has now grown into an overture and 5 subsequent movements that feature the unparalleled musicianship and virtuoso talents that are synonymous with Yes. From the first chord of "Fly From Here – Overture" to the last note of the album's closer "Into The Storm," there is no question that the unmistakable technical proficiency of Yes carries on. "It's awesome working with Trevor Horn again, he pays a lot of attention to detail.  It was a great pleasure in the studio to play some incredible music with some great players," says White. First formed in 1968, Yes' remarkable career spans over 40 years and the band has time and again redefined the boundaries of rock music. Yes has sold nearly 50 million albums worldwide and continues to stretch the boundaries of progressive art-rock with their symphonic use of sound and innovative musical styles. This summer, Yes will return to the road to bring Fly From Here as well as some of their classic hits to their loyal following. European tour dates are scheduled for the fall. Fly From Here track listing: 1. Fly From Here - Overture 2. Fly From Here - pt I - We Can Fly 3. Fly From Here - pt II - Sad Night At The Airfield 4. Fly From Here - pt III - Madman At The Screens 5. Fly From Here - pt IV - Bumpy Ride 6. Fly From Here - pt V - We Can Fly 7. The Man You Always Wanted Me To Be 8. Life On A Film Set 9. Hour Of Need 10. Solitaire 11. Into The Storm. Fly From Here will be released in 4 different configurations: CD, CD plus a bonus DVD including a documentary "Making of the Album" in digipak edition, a gatefold vinyl and a Special Box set limited edition including the CD, DVD, vinyl, t-shirt, poster, sticker and a lithograph of the cover art. For more official YES news and information, go to: www.yesworld.com. The Yes EPK discussing Fly From Here can be seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=CR-DKEcDtt8.   xx JOHN WETTON TO RELEASE NEW SOLO ALBUM IN JULY VIA FRONTIERS RECORDS: Frontiers Records is proud to announce the release of the sixth solo album by esteemed British singer/songwriter John Wetton; Raised In Captivity is due out on July 1 in Europe and the 12th in North America. The album was recorded in Los Angeles during a brief break between touring commitments and is produced and mixed by multi-instrumentalist Billy Sherwood (Yes, World Trade, Yoso). The new offering finds Wetton teaming up with current and former musical partners, including some of the biggest names from the British music scene over the past four decades: Genesis' Steve Hackett, King Crimson's Robert Fripp, Deep Purple's Steve Morse and many more. Please see below for a full track listing. "Raised In Captivity" celebrates yet another milestone in an extraordinary life, a stunning collection of songs reinforcing a career of over 40 years during which John Wetton has created a legacy as one of the greatest singers, musicians and songwriters ever.  Respected worldwide by fans and musical peers alike, Wetton's career included a significant period of time in the early eighties when he was the biggest selling singer in the world.    Once again characterised by the emotional impact of the material, a necessary component in all Wetton's creativity, "Raised In Captivity" continues an unrivalled career which has brought inspiration to millions worldwide. Of the new album and choice of producer, Wetton commented, "The decision to record in Los Angeles with Billy Sherwood was entirely mine. I wanted the chaotic urban inspiration, edge and energy to juxtapose the natural beauty that California provides.  I also knew that Billy Sherwood would provide the musical and technical ability to record quickly, with ultra high energy and superb production quality." The material was written in a variety of ways, such as "Goodbye Elsinore" was written on the Denmark-Sweden sea ferry en route to a Vilde Frang concert and "The Devil and the Opera House" is co-written with King Crimson collaborator Richard Palmer-James. The album's finale is "Mighty Rivers", featuring the enigmatic Dutch soprano Anneke Van Giersbergen and the Seattle Symphony Orchestra. John Wetton has been a member of several prominent British bands. After two albums with Family he joined King Crimson from 1972 to 1974, before working with Roxy Music and Uriah Heep. In 1977, with former Crimson band mate and drummer Bill Bruford, he co-founded U.K., which also featured guitarist Allan Holdsworth and keyboardist/violinist Eddie Jobson. After U.K.'s demise, Wetton turned his attentions to a solo career. In 1982, Wetton became part of the supergroup Asia, together with Steve Howe, Carl Palmer and Geoff Downes. This "fab four" of progressive pop would rule radio and record sales, with their debut album becoming the biggest selling album of the year and yielding the worldwide hit "Heat of the Moment." Wetton remained prolific with more solo studio albums and several collaborative efforts over the years. In 2002 at a John Wetton fan convention held in Allentown, PA, he started working with Geoff Downes again. This collaboration ultimately resulted a series of iCon studio and live albums and the in the highly-anticipated reunion of Asia's original lineup, bringing about two successful new studio albums: Phoenix in 2008 and Omega in 2010. John Wetton Raised In Captivity track listing: 1. Lost For Words (featuring Steve Morse) 2. Raised In Captivity (featuring Robert Fripp) 3. Goodbye Elsinore (featuring Steve Hackett) 4. The Last Night Of My Life (featuring Alex Machacek) 5. We Stay Together (bonus track) 6. The Human Condition (featuring Tony Kaye) 7. Steffi's Ring (featuring Geoff Downes) 8. The Devil And The Opera House (featuring Eddie Jobson) 9. New Star Rising (featuring Mick Box) 10. Don't Misunderstand Me (featuring Tony Kaye) 11. Mighty Rivers (featuring Anneke Van Giersbergen). "Lost For Words" can be streamed in full on the Frontiers Records web radio: www.frontiers.it/webradio. For more information please visit: www.johnwetton.co.uk / www.frontiers.it.   xx BAI BANG AND OUTLOUD ALBUM "LOVE CATASTROPHE" DUE ON JULY 22ND ON AOR HEAVEN: The band's history dates back to the year 2004 when the Outloud was founded in Athens, Greece. The debut album We Rock You To Hell And Back was released in August 2009 and received massive feedback from the press ("Best album of the year in BWBK"…). Outloud, having made a successful headline tour of Greece in December '09 and a companion national Greek TV appearance in front of more than one million viewers, have inked a brand new deal with AOR Heaven for their sophomore release, which was recorded in the Summer of 2010 and once again produced by Bob Katsionis and mixed and mastered by Tommy Hansen. The band ensures a memorable performance both sonically and visually once again. The debut single/video clip Waiting For Your Love, the anthemic We Came To Rock, the thunderous Live Again, the magnificent Falling Rain, the modern sounding Isolation Game and the heart-wrenching ballad Someday are just a few of the highlights Outloud presents with their new release. Additionally, Outloud has developed into a strong and formidable live act, with 10 headline shows already under their belt in their native country of Greece in just under a year's time including two festival headlines and spanning five different cities, and opening for Twisted Sister in Athens this Summer, the band now prepares to take to the world stage with album #2 - entitled Love Catastrophe. Line-up: Mark Cross – Drums; Bob Katsionis - Lead Guitar & Keys, Sverd T. Soth – Bass, Tony Kash – Guitars, Chandler Mogel - Vocals. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/outloudtheband / www.outloud-rock.com. Track list: 1. We Came To Rock, 2. Falling Rain, 3. Live Again, 4. Waiting For Your Love, 5. The Night That Never Ends, 6. Someday, 7. Underground, 8. Isolation Game, 9. Clean Hands, 10. Love Catastrophe. Soundfiles in advance: Fallin Rain / Waiting For Your Love / We Came To Rock.   xx Bai Bang - one of the most powerful rock acts from Sweden - features four talented and dynamic rockers in the line-up: Diddi Kastenholt (vocals), Pelle Eliaz (Lead Guitar), Joacim Sandin (Bass) and Johnny Benson (Drums). Since the band has started in the late 80's, BAI BANG have spent a lot of time together on their tours all over Europe, die USA, Canada, Japan – including the famous Whisky a Gogo and the Cat Club in Los Angeles twice each. The Swedes shared the stage with bands such as LA Guns, Thin Lizzy, Wishbone Ash, Ratt, Dio, Mötley Crüe, Pretty Maids, Saxon, Axel Rudi Pell and played at festivals such as Sweden Rock, Wacken and Rocklahoma. The last album "Are You Ready" was released in 2009 and nominated for the best sleaze/glam album in at the Swedish Metal Awards and voted as "The Best all round party anthem album of the year" in the Australian magazine The Rockpit. July 22 sees the release of the band's new and seventh album in total Livin' My Dream. This release was recorded in Sunshine Explosion studios in Helsingborg, Sweden during the years 2010 & 2011, produced by Pontus Assarsson and mastered by Martin Kronlund; drums were recorded by Jens Lundgren at Titan Studios Sweden. WebLinks: www.baibang.se / www.baibang-music.com / www.facebook.com/baibang. Track list: 1. We're United, 2. Livin' My Dream, 3. Come On, 4. Rock On, 5. Stay, 6. Gonna Have It All, 7. Tonight, 8. Rock It, 9. Die For You, 10. Put On Her Dress. Soundfiles in advance: Livin My Dream / We're United / Come On.   xx HURRICANE RETURN - LIVE AND ON RECORD: The long awaited return of Hurricane & Alcatrazz together on one stage one night only. Saturday July 2nd, 2011 live at The House of Blues on the Sunset Strip. Hosted by Diana De Ville of KNAC.com. With Special guests White Lie & Mercyy. Tickets on Sale now though Ticket Master or the House of Blues box office. For more show or ticket information visit the House of Blues website at www.houseofblues.com. Hurricane: Robert Sarzo - Guitar, Tony Cavazo - Bass, Mike Hansen - Drums, Andrew Freeman - Vocals & Guitar. Hurricane is a powerful hard rock band from Los Angeles that formed in 1984 by Guitarist Robert Sarzo, and Bassist Tony Cavazo. Cavazo, former Quiet Riot and Snow bassist, was introduced to Sarzo by the late Quiet Riot frontman, Kevin DuBrow in the early 80's. DuBrow suggested they put a band together and they did just that. Cavazo and Sarzo being the siblings of the classic Quiet Riot line-up guitarist and bassist Carlos Cavazo and Rudy Sarzo, decided to create a monster. They recruited singer Kelly Hansen and drummer Jay Schellen and hit the ground running. The band gained world wide acclaim with the release of their first album w/ producer Kevin Beamish, Take What You Want. The album and constant touring led to the band getting a major label deal with Captial / Enigma Records w/ producer Bob Ezrin and the release of their chart topping album, Over The Edge. Over the Edge was Hurricane's most successful album. Propelled by a powerful, yet melodic hardrock sound, the album charted in the top 100. It featured a cover of Alice Cooper's "I'm 18" as well as the band's most successful top 40 hit, "I'm on to You" in 1988. The title track, "Over the Edge" was also released as a single. Hurricane toured the world with Cheap Trick, Iron Maiden, Stryper and The Michael Schenker Group. Releasing the albums: Take What You Want (1985), Over the Edge (1988), Slave to the Thrill (1990). Hurricane disbanded in the early 90's and are now reborn in 2010. Cavazo and Sarzo have reunited with new but equally potent members, vocalist and guitarist, Andrew Freeman, and drummer, Mike Hansen. Andrew Freeman has done double duty as a singer and guitarist for several notable bands. Namely The Offspring, Lynch Mob, Thirty Stones and worked with famed producers Bob Rock, Simon Philips and Chris "Zuess" Harris. Mike Hansen has toured and recorded with George Lynch of Dokken/Lynch Mob fame, Paula Abdul, The Pointer Sisters, Steve Vai, Steve Lukather (Toto), George Clinton of Parliament Funkadelic. He has worked with famed classic rock producers Bob Ezrin (Kiss), Eddie Kramer (The Beatles), Simon Phillips and Andy Johns. Hurricane will be touring and releasing a new CD in 2011. WebLink: www.hurricane-music.com.   LION MUSIC ARTIST UPDATE: Winterlong have just unveiled a web video for their contribution "Failed Connection" to the upcoming album "Embrace The Sun - The Lion Music Japan Benefit Project" which sees release on 17th June: www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-oR5zMOONk. This new track is the first offering since 2005 from the metal act led by guitarist/vocalist Thorbjorn Englund with the tracks line-up completed by drummer Gerald Kloos and guest vocalist Stella Tormanoff. "Embrace The Sun - The Lion Music Japan Benefit Project" features 28 brand new tracks spread over 2 CD's from some of the best Lion Music acts and some special guests. Dedicated to the victims of the Tsunami and Earthquake that struck Japan in March 2011, all artists and composers as well the record label and publishing company are donating their profits from the material included to the Japan Red Cross in hope of a better world. Full information and pre-ordering of "Embrace The Sun" can be found at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/embracethesun.htm. FIREFEST MUSIC FESTIVAL - LINE-UP UPDATE: News from the team at Firefest HQ: "Hi All, We thought we would take this opportunity to keep you informed about what is happening behind the scenes at FIREFEST. Firstly, thank you to everybody who has shown support and purchased your tickets early, ticket sales at this point are the largest we have ever seen in the eight years of the show and it genuinely looks as if we might need the House Full signs. Please continue to spread the word regarding the show. Tickets can be purchased directly from Firefest at www.thefirefest.com. Strangeways: Following their triumphant return to the stage at Firefest 2010, Terry, Ian and the guys have been extremely busy, not only with solo projects , but writing for a brand new Strangeways album. Firefest 2011 will see the return of Ian's little brother, David Stewart, to the band, meaning the Strangeways will once again consist of the classic line up of Terry Brock, Ian Stewart, Jim Drummond, David Stewart and David 'Munch' Moore, who brought us the mega classics 'Native Sons' and 'Walk In The Fire'. David's schedule had prevented him from being part of the 2010 show, but with David firmly back in the fold this promises to make the Strangeways' performance of 'Walk In The Fire' in its entirety, even better (if that's possible). Oh, and the boys have also promised to throw in two or three from 'Native Sons' that didn't make the set list last year...can it get any better??? Farcry: Pete Fry, guitarist and commander in chief, has sent the following update regarding the band... "It is with deep regret that we announce, for reasons of his own, Mark Giovi (lead vocals) has decided to leave FarCry, effective immediately. Mark explained that recent events unrelated to FarCry led up to this difficult decision for him. We truly wish Mark all the best in his future endeavours, and know that he'll be successful in whatever he takes on. After searching far and wide for someone to fill some big shoes, Mike Ledesma becomes the new vocalist for FarCry, bringing an incredible range and a wealth of live experience singing melodic rock, to the band. Rehearsals are underway as we speak so that we can fulfil our upcoming live commitments as seamlessly as possible. After hearing Mike sing, not only do we believe that he will be able to handle our existing repertoire live, but will definitely be a big part of the future direction for FarCry. We hope you'll come out and see us as soon as possible and welcome Mike to the band!" Talon: The more things change, the more they stay the same. Shawn Pelata, current singer with Talon, will be unable to make Firefest, he sent the following update: "It is with deep regret that I am forced to withdraw myself from the brilliant opportunity to play Firefest. Conflicts in scheduling in my personal life would simply not allow it. My deepest apologies to Kieran, Bruce and the Talon guys. To all the fans and friends who wrote me words of excitement and encouragement, and who I was excited to meet and raise a glass with, I wish you all a rocking great time! I'll be there in spirit!!" On the plus side, John Parker sent this update regarding the vocalist slot: "As Shawn could not perform at the show, we looked at many, many singers to fill the vacancy, including many 'name' singers, but the more we looked the more the answer was obvious. Original singer Michael O Meara, who was part of the band from 2000 until 2007 was the obvious choice. Michael performed at the Gods with Talon back in 2001 and knows not just us, but the music inside out. We are delighted to welcome Michael back to the Talon family and look forward to kickin' some serious ass at Firefest." For those of you not familiar with Michael (who is one serious singer) check out this clip from the Gods performance in 2001. We are pretty sure that Michael will receive a very warm welcome from the Firefest family: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZrUljKlaioo. Tickets: Friday night tickets for Serpentine, Houston, Terry Brock and Jimi Jamison are almost sold out. Anybody wishing to make sure they do get to see what will no doubt be a show to remember, (hey, remember Jimi absolutely tearing the roof off at Firefest last year?), are urged to purchase sooner rather than later. At this point in time approximately 120 are still available. You can purchase directly from www.thefirefest.com, just go to the SHOP page and place your order. Stay tuned for further updates, including the first three CD releases from the Live At Firefest series, all recorded at Firefest 2010 coming your way very, very shortly." ~ The FIREFEST crew. MOONDANCE JAM ANNOUNCE 2011 PERFORMERS: The Moondance Jam, the country's pre-eminent classic rock festival, has announced the final line-up for this year's festival, which takes place July 13-16, 2011. Legendary glam rock band Kiss, along with Three Doors Down and Stone Temple Pilots, will serve as the headliners for this year's three-day party. Tickets are available now at www.moondancejam.com or by calling 1-877-MOONJAM. The final running order for each day is listed below: Wednesday July 13 (pre-Jam Party) 11:00 pm-Hairball 9:00 pm-Mountain Ash 7:00 pm-Cain 5:00 pm-Bad Animals Thursday July 14 11:00 pm-Three Doors Down 9:00 pm-.38 Special 7:00 pm-Great White 5:00 pm-Candlebox 3:00 pm-Cracker Friday July 15 11:00 pm-KISS 9:00 pm-Paul Rodgers 7:00 pm-Eddie Money 5:00 pm-The Outlaws 3:00 pm-Belfast Cowboys. Saturday July 16 11:00 pm-Stone Temple Pilots 9:00 pm-Joan Jett and the Blackhearts 7:00 pm-Fuel 5:00 pm-Burton Cummings 3:00pm-Thundherstruck. Tickets are now available in a variety of packages. Concert goers can purchase Rockstar All Access, 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. The Moondance Jam has been held at the same location in Walker since 1992. This year marks the 20th edition of the festival, which was started by resident Bill Bieloh. This year's event will serve as a tribute to Bill, who passed away last September. The Moondance Jam and its sister festival, Moondance Jamming Country Fest, help bring thousands of music fans to the Walker area every summer. Its bucolic location, situated near a huge lake on a site located three hours northwest of Minneapolis, 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. STEELHEART UNLEASHES A BLACK DOG: Hard, Heavy & Nasty! Steelheart delivers a modern twist on the classic song "Black Dog" by Led Zeppelin, a must listen!!! Give it 30 seconds and you will be hooked. You may know Miljenko AKA "Mili" by his singing voice for Mark Wahlberg in the movie "Rock Star". You may have also seen him on tour with "The doors" (Ray Manzerak & Robby Krieger) in 2010 transcending the voice of the late Jim Morrison. Miljenko jumps back in the saddle with his band "SteelHeart" to deliver new music to the world. Miljenko's voice is outstanding and the new sound of SteelHeart takes the song to levels that even the hard core Zeppelin fans will approve. Tastefully produced, the integrity was never lost of the original classic. Although SteelHeart began as a glam band in the early 90s, Mili has recently reformed the band and turned it away from the glam scene. Steelheart's new sound is modern and edgy while still retaining overtones of their roots. www.steelheart.com.   PHIL SOUSSAN OFFERS NO PROTECTION: News out last week from Phil Soussan (Big Noize, ex-Beggars & Thieves): "My follow up solo album to Vibrate is now available as a pre-release! Please may I invite you to purchase your copy at www.philsoussan.com (...where you may also hear some clips.) Entitled No Protection, the album is the culmination of 3 years work, recording, producing and mixing a collection of 13 songs that were all written over a period of about a year. The songs are a reflection of the idea that in life, time waits for no one. What is unique about this album is that I felt the inspiration to record an album on which I play virtually all of the instruments and perform all of the vocals. I had always wanted to play all the instruments on a record, ever since McCartney did it back with "Maybe I'm Amazed" on his first album, or more recently on "Memory Almost Full". It was a very tough and tricky thing to do but I have become a better musician for it! I am very proud of this CD. Stylistically it varies from hard edged pop rock to acoustic guitar storyteller, really focused on songwriting. The songs are perhaps more connected than "Vibrate", that album having been more of a compilation of songs from across several eras. Some comparisons have been made to Tom Petty and John Mayer, to the Beatles and even a bit of U2. If you enjoyed "Vibrate" you are going to really like this recording. Everyone who has heard it has been really taken by it, and I cannot believe the effect that it has been having. Of course, I have lost some objectivity, being so close to the trees and such, but I do think that this is some of my best writing. Please purchase your copy today - a personally signed, beautiful limited edition, UV Glossy "Digipack" cover, with a full lyric booklet, in keeping with my love of album covers and notes! I really went to town on this package to make it very special for you, during this era of downloads, where there is generally nothing tangable to peruse or read! I also have rebuilt the new website where you can make the purchase. I am in the process of adding to the content daily. Please visit the site and feel free to give me your comments, and for all you Facebook citizens I have started an official page - please take the time to "like" and write something on my wall at www.facebook.com/philsoussan. The album will be digitally released by Steve Vai's Favored Nations label on iTunes and elsewhere after June 3rd, should you prefer a purchase "No Protection" in download form. WebLinks: www.philsoussan.com / www.facebook.com/philsoussan / www.digital-nations.com/artists/philsoussan / www.cdbaby.com/philsoussan.   EDEN'S CURSE TO SUPPORT DREAM THEATER IN UK: It's official people, we are thrilled to announce that Eden's Curse will open for the mighty Dream Theater in the UK in July. As frontman Michael Eden confirms: "Yes, it's true my friends .... anything can and will happen! The Curse has nailed the opening slot for the Dream Theater shows in July. We look towards the future with our friends in Dream Theater, as they prepare their UK return, with a show that will blow minds and speakers!! An evening of Metal delights will never sound better to Metal supporters everywhere!! Dream Theater is back and The Curse is ready to kick some ass with their hardcore fans in the UK, and our fans? They know what's coming. PREPARE! \m/". The dates are: Dream Theater + Special Guests - Eden's Curse 22/07/11 - Leeds Academy - Leeds - England - Buy Tickets 23/07/11 - Wolverhampton Civic Hall - Wolverhampton - England - Buy Tickets Eden's Curse extends special thanks to James LaBrie and Dream Theater for making this happen, and not to forget Richard Taylor @ Wolves Civic! More news to follow as the band are working hard on further live dates for later in the year. WebLink: www.EdensCurse.com. ROXX RECORDS UNEARTH'S NEW RARE CHRISTIAN METAL GEM: Roxx Records is very proud to announce that they have unearthed another RARE Christian Metal Gem for the world to enjoy! We have signed an exclusive deal to be able to bring to you in a strictly Limited Edition format the long lost 'Cassette' only demo from one of San Francisco's premiere Christian Metal bands… Crossforce! Crossforce were a vastly underrated Metal Band from the San Francisco Bay Area. Melodic but heavy with simply GREAT songs and GREAT melodies! The band was led by a very young, energetic and very charismatic front man named Tony Krider who also played rhythm guitar and piano for the band and was a very versatile and talented musician. Unfortunately Tony would leave this world way to early in 2002, leaving us with his music to help fill the void. Crossforce was also led musically by the fierce guitar playing of a young guitar virtuoso named Phil Castillo who would go on to play in many instrumental Christian Metal bands like Mercy and Krush! Tony would also become a part of Mercy alongside of Phil briefly after Crossforce had run it's course, they would put out one more cassette only demo tape out under this name. The band was rounded out by Jeff Scott on bass, Mark Wrapley on keyboards and Mark Cassettari on drums and together they were Crossforce. The band would play a couple of very seminal Christian Metal festivals in Southern California. They would play the first annual 'His Festival' and they would also be invited to play the very first Sanctuary sponsored Christian Metal Festival called 'Metal Mardi Gras'. They would go on to print and sell 500 copies of their original demo tape in 1986, 25 years ago this year! Unfortunately despite a lot of buzz and interest in the band from several labels the band would never quite break out of the local scene and would never officially record or put out any other releases. The bands demo tape would become a much sought after collectible reaching easily in to the $100 mark for an original copy on sites like eBay. The tape itself would never be reproduced or see the light of day again until now, despite the fact that the demo would be widely traded amongst collectors all over the world for years to come. We are very excited to finally make this classic title available to the general public for the very first time EVER on CD. But not only are we releasing the very first six track demo but after working with Phil Castillo from Crossforce as well as some close friends of the band from the bay area like former White Throne magazine cohorts Dave Johnson and Keven Crothers, we have unearthed an extremely rare demo tape that the band recorded live and in the studio to send exclusively to Frontline Records main man Jimmy Kempner. This audition tape has never been released and has never been heard outside of the close circle of friends and the band. This collection is a true piece of Christian Metal history and you will get the chance to hear this demo for the very first time completely remastered and uncut with haunting intros and discussions from front man Tony Krider and the rest of the band as they sought their first record deal. But if that still is not enough for you then you will want to get in early on the pre-order where the first 100 copies will come with an exclusive bonus disc featuring tracks from an unreleased Crossforce show and the original Mercy demo tape which has also never been released on CD! Stay tuned to the Roxx Productions site at www.roxxproductions.com or the Roxx Productions facebook page at www.facebook.com/roxxproductions as we begin to unveil more details of this classic release piece by piece! NEW AFM SIGNING: MELODIC PROGRESSIVE METAL PROJECT EPYSODE: AFM Records is pleased to announce the signing of Epysode, the new melodic progressive metal band project of Samuel Arkan (Virus IV). The debut album Obsessions is expected to arrive in late August. Band leader Samuel Arkan comments: "I'm very excited to announce to everyone that I signed with AFM Records for my new project Epysode! This label is the home of so many of the great bands I've loved throughout the years. I'm looking forward to working with the AFM team on this upcoming album, which will be called "Obsessions". Epysode is a very special project to me. It can be described as a "supernatural thriller" concept album, which was composed & written by me. It's something very deep, a strong story with characters, clues & secrets behind, to involve the listeners into the adventure. With an amazing team of 5 musicians & 5 singers from the Progressive & Metal scene who were all involved in the creation of the album, the music of Epysode is intense and melodic, with lots of small nuances, emotional as well as high-energetic! Prepare to get lost in your "Obsessions"…" Further info about this outstanding project will follow soon…

 

 

Thursday, June 02, 2011

Hi folks, many thanks again for the constant supply of well wishes. Really appreciate that. So...I managed to escape hospital and I'm now at home recovering. Knee still sore and will take some time to come right. Antibiotics seem to be working but the big issue is trying to build up any kind of energy and stamina after being away for 9 days. I anticipate returning to work next week in some capacity and will also be sorting out the big mess that is the site in general, MRR/MRCD release schedule, not to mention news, reviews, email etc. Will keep all posted. Not rushing back as I cannot afford any further outages in 2011. The last 2 weeks have been a financial disaster for the site. Thanks again to all...except the dude who hoped my leg would fall off. No such luck. Might have got something for it on EBay.

 

 

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

VICTORY FOR A SOLO ROB MORATTI: Escape Music are pleased to announce the release of Final Frontier/ex-Saga vocalist Rob Moratti's debut solo album Victory, due out in Europe June 24. Victory has an impressive line up which includes Reb Beach (Winger/Whitesnake) Tony Franklin (The Firm/Blue Murder) and fellow Saga member, drummer Brian Doerner. The whole album is dominated by outstanding songs and great musicianship. The opening track "Life on the line" is nothing short of outstanding, Rob's vocals are so strong, and with great musicians alongside him no one can deny the end product is music to the ears. If you like a sound that mixes the great AOR brilliance of Final Frontier and Toto with a progressive edge that smacks of Saga then this is the release you have been waiting for. Rob Moratti continues to be passionate about his production, his song writing skills and vocal abilities are impeccable as this new release "Victory" will show. This is a brand new era for Rob and a one that will escalate him to new heights. Tracks: 1- Life On The Line 2-Everything But Good Bye 3-Life Time 4-Power Of Love 5-Hold That Light 6-On And On 7-Take It All Back 8-I Promise You 9-Standing On The Top Of The World 10-Jennie 11-Now More Than Ever. Exclusive Preview - Life On The Line (90 sec. clip) Line-up: Rob Moratti - Lead and Background Vocals; Reb Beach - Lead Guitars (Winger/Whitesnake); Tony Franklin - Bass (Blue Murder/The Firm); Christian Wolff - Lead Guitars, Rhythm Guitars and Keyboards; Fredrik Bergh - Keyboards; Brian Doerner - Drums (Saga). Produced by - Rob Moratti. Mixed by Richard Chycki (Rush/Aerosmith/Gotthard/Pink) Canadian singer Rob Moratti has had a varied career; he first appeared as a songwriter and lead vocalist in the early 90's for the band "Moratti", the result being the recording of two fine albums (Desolation in 1995 & Legends of Tomorrow in 1997). He then shot to centre stage as singer with Final Frontier, a band which also featured Mladen (Von Groove) and over a period of time the band recorded 4 albums and gained a cult following both in Europe and Japan. They played exciting hard rock AOR which was set apart by Rob's powerful vocal performances. In 2008 Rob has found more fame as frontman for AOR / Prog rock legends Saga who discovered him to replace Michael Sadler in recent years. Rob sang, wrote and produced the vocals on the 2009 "The Human Condition" album and toured extensively with the band. He has since left Saga and this has given Rob time to concentrate on his solo CD "Victory". WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   AOR HEAVEN CLASSIX - TOUR DE FORCE: The eight release of the AOR Heaven Classix series is available now - it's the cracking second album World On Fire from US melodic rockers Tour De Force. Originally released in 1995 it still stands as one of the finest melodic rock releases of the 90s. As usual digitally remastered by Chris Lyne and containing liner notes by Dave Reynolds, it also contains the Japanese bonus track "Tonight" (penned by Michael Bolton). Following next in the AOR Heaven Classix series are two more AOR gems - the mega classic Fortune album (pre-Harlan Cage) due late June and the self-titled solo debut from Peter Beckett (1991) with four previously unreleased bonus tracks in July. All AOR Heaven Classix releases are strictly limited to 1.000 copies and available only via www.aorheaven.com and some connected retailers.   TOTO TO HIT THE UK: Celebrated rock band Toto will perform a rare concert at London's HMV Hammersmith Apollo on Sunday 26th June, 2011. This will be Toto's only UK concert this year. Tickets are available from the 24 Hour Ticket Hotline 0844 888 9991 or 0844 847 1642, or book online from www.ticketline.co.uk or www.ticketmaster.co.uk. TOTO will perform all their classic hits from a career that spans 34 years. Fans can expect to hear all the greatest hits including Hold The Line, Rosanna and Africa. The current line-up features Joseph Williams (lead vocals), David Paich (keyboards), Steve Lukather (guitar, vocals), Steve Porcaro (keyboards), Simon Phillips (drums), and Nathan East (bass guitar). The band will also perform songs from their 12 studio albums including their eponymous debut Toto (1978), followed by Hydra (1979), Turn Back (1981), Toto IV (1982), Isolation (1984), Fahrenheit (1986), The Seventh One (1988), Kingdom of Desire (1992), Tambu (1995), Mindfields (1999), Through The Looking Glass (2002) and Falling In Between (2006). Toto are featured on the front cover of the new issue of "AOR" magazine. The new issue features an 11-page retrospective that chronicles the history of Toto written by Derek Oliver, plus a free cover mount CD, "AOR Anthems," that includes a live recording of "Pamela" exclusively mixed for AOR by Toto drummer, Simon Phillips. Read the official full colour Toto UK announcement here: www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/toto/tour.htm. THE STORY OF RONNIE JAMES DIO OVER 2 CDs: A nice 2-Disc career retrospective compilation of Ronnie James Dio's works is being released by Sanctuary Records June 6. The track listing (and original band) is as follows: Disc: 1 1. Carolina County Ball - Elf 2. Love Is All - Ronnie James Dio 3. The Temple Of The King - Rainbow 4. Catch The Rainbow - Rainbow 5. Stargazer - Rainbow 6. Run With The Wolf - Rainbow 7. Kill The King - Rainbow 8. Long Live Rock 'n' Roll - Rainbow 9. Lady Of The Lake - Rainbow 10. Gates Of Babylon - Rainbow 11. Die Young - Black Sabbath 12. Heaven And Hell - Black Sabbath 13. Children Of The Sea - Black Sabbath. Disc: 2 1. The Mob Rules - Black Sabbath 2. Voodoo - Black Sabbath 3. Country Girl - Black Sabbath 4. Holy Diver - Dio 5. Rainbow In The Dark - Dio 6. We Rock - Dio 7. Rock 'N' Roll Children - Dio 8. All The Fools Sailed Away - Dio 9. I - Black Sabbath 10. Push - Dio 11. One More For The Road - Dio 12. Shadow Of The Wind - Black Sabbath 13. Neon Knights - Heaven & Hell 14. Bible Black - Heaven & Hell.   FIONA'S LONG AWAITED RETURN STARTS WITH A BRAND NEW OFFICIAL WEBSITE: It's been a long time coming but finally there is a place on the net where you can keep in touch with all things Fiona - www.fionarock.com. With a brand new album currently in production and live dates being discussed Fiona decided it was time to take the plunge and have an official website where fans can check for new announcements and of course find information on her career to date. There are also plans to have signed merchandise available to purchase from the site in the near future. Two song teasers from the forthcoming album are currently available to listen to on the homepage, one of which is "Loved Along the Way" a brand new song that also appears on the Rock for Japan charity album from AOR Heaven.   SHREDGUY RECORDS LATEST: Shredguy Records is pleased to announce the addition of Dannyjoe Carter to their roster of guitar players. Dannyjoe was featured in the JULY 2008 issue of Guitar World magazine as the fastest living guitar player...clocking in at 17 picked notes per second. Since then Dannyjoe was featured on the compilation cd Shredding Acoss The World...Volume Three, and has recently received endorsements from Seymour Duncan and KnE Guitars. Dannyjoe has signature models with both companies. At the end of MAY, Shredguy will making available a four song EP at their online store www.shredguyrecords.bigcartel.com. As well as the release of the song Push It on iTunes, which lyrically takes a stab at the corrupt American healthcare industry. "One of the things that I want to stress is that Dannyjoe is not just a speed demon on guitar. He is a great writer and has a great blues-rock foundation as a player. And his singing voice is going to surprise a lot of fans! After a couple of false starts with a couple of singers in the past, Shredguy and Dannyjoe are moving forward to bring some killer music to fans in 2011!" - Michael McDowell, Shredguy Records. www.shredguyrecords.bigcartel.com   INTRODUCING URA-KIA: URA-KIA, the newly formed metal group featuring vocalist Keith Ramsey, drummer Matt Scheen and guitarists Jeff Westlake and Jeff Boggs has signed with Jamsync Music for their self-titled debut release, URA-KIA. "URA-KIA was put together with a plan of let's do it and do what we feel as opposed to let's do it, re do it and then re do it again until the life has been squeezed out of it like so much of the industry today. We wrote and recorded the entire record at Ridgeline Studios in Ashland, KY in 15 days", says Westlake. URA-KIA is set for an August 9th release date and will be distributed by MVD globally except France where it will be handled by Underclass. 'Fill Our Souls' Track Listing: 1. New World Soldier 2. Sea Of Lies 3. Fill Our Souls 4. The Hunting Fields 5. Giv'n Ur Luv Away 6. Prime Evil Brigade 7. Calm Before The Storm 8. Last Mile 9. Wretched and Weary 10. Queen Of Sorrow 11. Long Time Gone. MELODIC BRIEFS: Interview with Jamie St James about the new Black N Blue album, the old albums ugly cover artwork, G Simmons polaroid collection, moving to LA from Portland and lots more: metalshrineblogg.blogspot.com/2011/05/intervju-med-jamie-st-james-i-black.html#links. Journey are one of the most successful American melodic rock bands in history with record sales of over 75 million. The recent phenomenal success of 'Don't Stop Believin'' – the most downloaded song of all time – has given Journey a new lease of life and as such they have undergone a massive rise in popularity. For the first time ever, their entire history is explored in depth in this definitive biography which charts the many highs and many lows of one of America's most beloved rock bands. The book: Don't Stop Believin' – The Untold Story Of Journey by Neil Daniels will be Published in the USA & Canada in August! - www.neildaniels.com/Index.html. A complete Little Caesar gig from Bonn, Germany can be watched here: www.wdr.de/tv/rockpalast/extra/videos/2011/0405/little_caesar.jsp. S.U.N. - Something Unto Nothing is a new vehicle for Canadian rocker Sass Jordan. Featuring Jordan - Vocals, Guutar; Briian Tichy - Drums, and Michael Devin - Bass: www.facebook.com/pages/SUN-Something-Unto-Nothing/177605938956922. CISSY'S MUSICAL STORY BOX TO REINTRODUCE CLASSIC STORIES TO A NEW GENERATION OF KIDS: Cissy's Musical Story Box will release "Animal Tales", a collection of timeless short stories including Rudyard Kipling's Just so Stories and Aesop's Fables on May 17. They are narrated by Cissy Croat and are set to the musical creations of keyboardist Charlie Calv (Shotgun Symphony, Message, The Way, Bronx Casket Co.) with accompanying guitars by Jimmy Leahey (Dennis DeYoung, John Waite). The stories take place all over the world, telling captivating tales of exotic animals and how they've evolved into the beautiful and fascinating creatures they are today. Charlie first blasted onto the European and Japanese rock charts with the critically acclaimed debut Shotgun Symphony CD in 1993 and has continued to lend his talents to a host of acts throughout his career, so why a Children's CD? Charlie comments, "Well this is far from my other musical endeavors but I think it is a natural progression. As we get older and kids become an integral part of our lives, I wanted to create something as musically enjoyable to the parents as the stories can be to the child, and I believe we have achieved that." Cissy Croat continues, "Having been involved in childcare for many years has given me great insight as to what children enjoy and what keeps them entertained. I feel we were able to accomplish both of these on Animal Tales". Highlighted by newly worked renditions of such classics as "How The Camel Got His Hump", "The Hare and The Tortoise", and the epic "Elephant's Child", filled with its lush keyboards and beautiful guitar melodies, this will make for a great addition to anyone's book and/or music collection. CD's can be ordered on-line at www.cissysmusicalstorybox.com or can be downloaded directly through Amazon.com, iTunes, eMusic and many others. WebLink: www.cissysmusicalstorybox.com.   WHEN MULLETS RULED THE WORLD?: Where were you when 'Hair Metal' ruled the airwaves? The days when you just couldn't get enough of bands like Stryper, Cinderella, Twisted Sister, Firehouse, Trixter and XYZ! Have you been longing for the days of 'Hair Metal'? Or were you a little to young to see what all the hype was about? Now thanks to the talents of MdK Video Promotions, and the wonderful music of Liberty n' Justice, we invite you to take a step back in time. Sit back, flash back and enjoy the World Premiere video 'When Mullets Ruled the World' - www.youtube.com/user/RoxxRecordsTube. And don't forget the brand new release from Liberty n' Justice 'Chasing the Cure LP' hits the streets on May 31. Roxx Productions: www.roxxproductions.com / www.facebook.com/roxxproductions. JON ANDERSON TO RELEASE LONG AWAITED NEW CD 'SURVIVAL & OTHER STORIES': 5/16/2011 – Asheville, NC - One off the most recognizable voices in music, the legendary Jon Anderson, best known for his work with Yes, Vangelis, Kitaro and other notable music artists, as well as his innovative solo efforts, is preparing to release one of the most highly anticipated albums of the year, 'Survival & Other Stories'. Featuring eleven new luminous songs with themes about love, life, understanding, healing and survival, Jon's new CD has an inspirational message for all who will listen! "About four years ago I just put in an ad on my website: 'Musicians Wanted'... This is the result. Writing the songs for 'Survival & Other Stories' was uplifting for me on many levels, I was working with musicians from around the world Via the Internet, it's a new world, music is a healing energy, I had a tough 2008, through illness, and the Music I've been writing since is a celebration of life on many levels...I hope you get the chance to hear the album..Big Love..Jon." 'Survival & Other Stories' is the first of three albums to be released by Jon Anderson in the next two years. Jon recently completed a successful east coast tour of the US, "An Acoustic Evening With Jon Anderson", which featured and exciting mixture of material from Jon Anderson's prolific solo career, collaborations with Vangelis and classic YES songs, along with new compositions from his new CD 'Survival & Other Stories'. Jon will be performing select shows throughout this summer in the US and Canada. For tour dates visit www.jonanderson.com/tour.html Jon Anderson 'Survival & Other Stories' available soon through Voiceprint Records www.voiceprint.co.uk, www.jonanderson.com.   ROXXCALIBUR COVER THE CLASSICS OF NWOBHM: The long-awaited, second album from Roxxcalibur, "Lords Of The NWOBHM" is already causing something of a stir. Even only months after the release of their debut album, NWOBHM For Muthas" (April 2009) the fans were demanding another dose in the form of a CD. But the "Keepers of the Grail of NWOBHM" weren't prepared to rush things. "To pick the right songs which also suit us as musicians, from a pool of first-class NWOBHM pearls, needs just as much time as it does to write our own songs", explains singer Alexx Stahl. The band had planned to demonstrate an even wider view and more extreme selection of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal on "Lords of the NWOBHM" than they did on their debut. "The finished CD shouldn't just sound like the output of a coverband but should be as though it had come from one balanced mould.". It took until August 2010 for Roxxcalibur to make their final selection and they can now present a surprisingly varied album uniting all facets of NWOBHM, with songs ranging from melodic Hardrock to Thrash Metal. For insiders the CD is like the product of a tribute band with numerous unknown, rare or long-forgotten diamonds of the breed. The statement "I prefer the original version" is even less plausible for "Lords of the NWOBHM" than it would have been for the band's first album, especially since the value of the albums from which the songs were taken would - even if they could be hunted down today - easily pay for a family car. And it is quite astounding how many fantastic, quality songs were, for various reasons, left behind during the roller-coaster ride which was the NWOBHM era. "Lords of the NWOBHM" was produced by no lesser mortal than Chris Tsangarides. Beside million-sellers such as Judas Priest ("Painkiller", "Sad Wings of Destiny"), Gary Moore, Black Sabbath and Thin Lizzy, Chris was also responsible for a long list of NWOBHM classics, Tygers of Pan Tang, Quartz, Prowler (on the "Brute Force" compilation) and Tokyo Blade to name just a few. He gave the CD his own organic, warm and impressive 1980s metal sound which can only be described as timeless. He enjoyed the trip back in time, as can be seen in the studio report included with the bonus DVD, which is included in the first edition pack. The DVD includes numerous Roxxcalibur live tracks, as well as videos from Savage Grace and Thunder Rider, who, with their original vocalists Kalli, Roger Dequis, Mario Lang and Neudi went on tour together. In addition the DVD includes a feature about the now legendary "NWOBHM Anniversary Show" at the Keep It True Festival 2009, with scenes from the rehearsals with the original musicians. Besides the bonus DVD, the first edition of the CD includes a poster and a sticker honouring Rodney Matthews' painted cover artwork, "The Dragon Lord", detailed liner notes about the individual tracks, some written by members of the bands who originally recorded the songs, as well as an article by John Tucker (the author of several NWOBHM books) and numerous photos. At the moment the band is preparing for its appearance at the Keep It True Festival 2011. They will be appearing there as Griffin, another US metal legend, together with original vocalist Rodrick McKay. After the festival the five lads will again be concentrating on Roxxcalibur and on presenting "Lords of the NWOBHM" live - and everyone who has ever seen the band live will know that their stage shows are something not to be missed. Here is the track list of "Lords of the NWOBHM": 01. London Bridge Is Falling Down 0:14 (Intro) 02. Atomic Rock 3:49 Original By More 1981 03. Heads Will Roll 3:21 Original By Satan 1982 04. Flying High 3:00 Original By Hollow Ground 1981 05. Day To Day 3:16 Original By Cryer 1980 06. If Heaven Is Hell 6:01 Original By Tokyo Blade 1983 07. Lift Up Your Eyes 5:22 Original By Saxon (Unreleased & Unfinished) 08. Satan's Serenade 4:42 Original By Quartz 1980 09. Hellbound 3:37 Original By Tygers Of Pan Tang 1981 10. Music Power 5:45 Original By Oxym 1980 11. Angel Of Death 5:44 Original By Sparta 1981 12. A Face In The Crowd 3:59 Original By Saracen 1981 13. Battlescarred 5:17 Original By Blood Money 1987 14. Stagefright 5:16 Original By Witchfynde 1980 15. At War With Satan (Preview) 2:13 Original By Venom 1982. Album-video-trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=fdJxoszCQys.

 

 

Monday, May 16, 2011

RICK SPRINGFIELD REFORMS ZOOT: Rick Springfield is putting back together the iconic Australian rock group that helped launch his career - Zoot. With any luck this time they will avoid the infamous lyrca skin-tight pink 'Zoot Suits' or even their 'birthday suits' as (not)worn for one photo shoot. This from Undercover.fm: "Zoot, the Australian rock band from the 60s featuring Rick Springfield, Beeb Birtles, Daryl Cotton and Rick Brewer, are reforming for a cruise show. All members of Zoot went on to other things after the band broke up. Rick became the solo star with hits like 'Jessie's Girl' and 'Speak To The Sky', Darryl went solo and had a Top 10 hit with 'Same Old Girl', Rick formed The Ferrets and had a number one song with 'Don't Fall In Love' and Beeb formed Mississippi then Little River Band and had global success. The original band will perform for the Rick Springfield and Friends cruise leaving Miami in November. "We're going to test the waters, so to speak, and see how it goes," Beeb tells Undercover.fm. "If all goes well we'll consider playing some shows around Australia. I guess it will all come down to our individual schedules at the time but I hope it can happen." The talks for the reformation started when Rick and Beeb were performing on the Countdown 2 Spectacular. Beeb, a founding member of Little River Band, was performing with his Little River Band co-founders Glenn Shorrock and Graeham Goble. Rick headlined the show. "We all still keep in touch with each other," Beeb says. "I first heard about it from Darryl Cotton who told me that he and Rick Springfield had been talking about the possibility." However, it will be slightly different for Beeb. He was the bass player in Zoot but hasn't played bass since they split. "Because I haven't played bass since Zoot split up I'll be playing electric guitar with Rick and the bass player in his band will substitute for me. I think Zoot's music with two electric guitars will sound even ballsier". The members of Zoot formed as Down The Line in Adelaide in 1965. In 1967 they relocated to Melbourne and changed their name to Zoot. Their biggest hit was their hard rock cover of The Beatles 'Eleanor Rigby' in 1970 (it reached No. 3 on the Australian charts) but in 1971 it was all over." Itinerary for the cruise: Saturday Nov 5, 2011 Miami, Florida Sunday Nov 6, 2011 Day at Sea Monday Nov 7, 2011 Ocho Rios Tuesday Nov 8, 2011 Grand Cayman Wednesday Nov 9, 2011 Day at Sea Thursday Nov 10, 2011 Return to Miami Find out more at: www.rickspringfieldcruise.com. KISS ON TOUR - US & CANADA SUMMER TOUR DATES: Initial Kiss US & Canada summer tour dates: May 29 - Sacramento, CA June 23 - Everett, WA June 24 - Spokane, WA June 26 - Kamloops, BC June 27 - Abbotsford, BC June 29 - Prince George, BC June 30 - Dawson Creek, BC July 2 - Fort McMurray, AB July 6 - Sarnia, ON July 9 - Grand Falls-Windsor, NL July 12 - Manchester, NH July 13 - Bushkill, NY July 15 - Walker, MN July 16 - Oshkosh, WI July 18 - Springfield, IL July 24 - Montreal, QC July 26 - Orillia, ON July 27 - Windsor, ON July 28 - Verona, NY INTRODUCING THE GATE: In October 2009, Preacher, former guitarist of the first legendary Running Wild Line – Up, and Guido, met again at the Swordbrothers Festival in Guidos hometown Andernach, Germany. Guido was the singer of the The Company in the 90's and the first years of the new century, where he made three CDs which were a big success in Japan, Netherlands and France. Preacher saw some of their shows in the 90's and soon became a friend of the band. After their reunion they met again at Guidos home. Soon they noticed that they were on the same wavelength and they decided to form The Gate: Playing Metal to play Metal with their tradition and in their true beliefs! With Tino, the former bass player of the Metal Underground Masterpiece Insolence, and Peter "Unruh" Michels on the drums, they found the right men to start their band. Peter played in many bands like One Sign Of Metal and the Cologne Hardrockers Underdog that had some great releases in the 80's. In the first few months they worked on their material and in the summer of 2010 they entered the BIG EASY STUDIO near Hennef, Germany. Together with their Producer Michael "Freio" Haas they recorded five tracks. It didn't take long before the first offers of interested labels came in. The Gate decided to sign with ROCK IT UP RECORDS. Together with GUN BARREL, PERZONAL WAR, and JUDAS RISING, the guys did their debut on stage in Bonn with great success. In the beginning of 2011 the band finished their recordings at the Big Easy. It was Korbinian Warnecke (the son of the preacherman) who played the 12 String Guitar on the song "1000 Miles away". After the recordings the band decided that Korbinian is now a member of the band. By the Way: The old fans of Running Wild will find the remastered version of Preachers demo song "Deliver from Sin" on the debut CD - finally an official publication of the number. "Earth Cathedral" Release: Summer 2011 Line-up: Preacher (ex Running Wild) - Guitar; Tino Weber (ex Insolence Und System Failed) - Bass; Peter "Unruh" Michels (ex Underdog) - Drums; Guido Krämer (ex The Company) - Vocals. Tracklist 1. Through the Gate 2. Shout for Metal 3. Face your Fear (The Money Song) 4. Guy Anvil 5. 1000 Miles Away 6. Mountains 7. Hiding where the Wolf lives 8. Into the Pit 9. Deliver from Sin 10.Earth Cathedral. WebLink: www.rockitup.org / www.myspace.com/icewarriorrecords / www.myspace.com/rockituprecords. ALCATRAZZ AND ADRIAN GALYSH SET FOR SAN DIEGO: San Diego, CA - Los Angeles, California based guitarist, Adrian Galysh, will be performing a full set as special guest for Alcatrazz featuring Graham Bonnet at 4th and B in San Diego, CA on Saturday, June 11th. Galysh recently performed as 2nd guitarist in ex-Scorpions guitarist, Uli Jon Roth's band, and shared the stage with Alcatrazz this past January. Galysh's most recent album, "Earth Tones" is an instrumental rock guitar concept album which includes influences of hard rock, classical, blues, and world music. "Earth Tones" takes the listener on a journey around the planet and features performances by Marco Mendoza (Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy, Ted Nugent) on bass, Joey Heredia (Scott Henderson, Stevie Wonder, Frank Gambale) on drums, as well as special guests: Carl Verheyen (Supertramp) on guitar, Chuck Wright (Quiet Riot, House Of Lords) on bass, and Glen Sobel (Gary Hoey, Jennifer Batten, Beautiful Creatures) on drums. Tickets can be purchased here: tickets.4thandbevents.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=66. For more information about Adrian Galysh, please visit www.AdrianGalysh.com. MRX UPDATED: In liew of my sick day Friday, comes the missed MRX update. Online today is two new killer live shows: - Damn Yankees - Combined Forces (9 Tracks, Live 1990) - Tesla - Hold Me Tight Sweet Paradise (11 Tracks, Live 1987) And the following new Video Clips: Coldspell - Heroes, Brett Walker - Hard to Find An Easy Way (Swedish TV), Bad City - Wildlife, Dan Reed - Closer & The Dictator. MRX Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, May 12, 2011

VAN HALEN IN AUSTRALIA 2011: 5 tour dates have been announced for Van Halen in Australia on their 2011 tour. The band will headline the massive Soundwave Revolution festival, which will tour the 5 major capital cities of Australia (by-passing Tasmania as usual!). The dates are: Brisbane ­ September 24 Sydney ­ September 25 Melbourne ­ September 30 Adelaide ­ October 1 Perth ­ October 3 For more information, visit the festival's official web site: www.soundwaverevolution.com. Ticket pre-order dates are: Tuesday 24 May 9am, Brisbane AEST Wednesday 25 May 9am, Sydney AEST Thursday 26 May 9am, Melbourne AEST Friday 27 May 9am, Adelaide (CST) and Perth (WST) Through soundwaverevolution.com.   PINK FLOYD REDEFINE THEIR EMI LEGACY: Major Pink Floyd release campaign, Why Pink Floyd…?, to include unreleased music from the archives, collectors' box sets and complete studio recordings remastered. Pink Floyd and EMI Music, whose association dates from 1967, announce a comprehensive release schedule, to be launched on September 26, 2011, encompassing CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, SACD, an array of digital formats, viral marketing, iPhone Apps and a brand-new single-album 'Best Of' collection. The legendary band, who are still one of the most successful and iconic artists of all time, recently signed an agreement with EMI which has allowed the development of a multi-format programme of packages, many containing archive material that has been collated during an extensive process between EMI and Pink Floyd for a range of media formats. Full details of the releases available at: www.whypinkfloyd.com/full-list.php.

 

 

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

GEORGE LYNCH SET TO RELEASE NEW SOLO ALBUM JUNE 21: George Lynch, the charismatic lead guitarist for Dokken and leader of his own dual rock bands, Lynch Mob and Souls of We, has announced plans to release his eleventh solo album in nearly twenty years. Kill All Control is set for release on June 21 through Rocket Science, Inc. What began as a follow-up to the Souls of We debut, Let The Truth Be Known, George quickly realized the project was taking on a new direction with the addition of Powerman 5000 drummer, Adrian Ost. While writing with Souls of We singer, London LeGrand (Brides of Destruction), George noted, "The creative juices flowed and we wrote most of the CD in 10 days." Kill All Control combines many of Lynch's varied styles and histories, including a reflection back to earlier days which spawned a follow up to the instrumental Dokken track, "Mr.Scary", called "Son Of Scary" featuring Fred Coury of Cinderella on Drums. Additional guests on the album include a variety of known singers. Will Marten (Earshot), Marc Torien (Bullet Boys), and Keith St. John (Montrose) all joined in on the new album in which George hopes he was able "to create an eclectic listening experience for my fans." In 2009, George re-formed Lynch Mob and released Smoke and Mirrors, which resulted in an extended tour and the reuniting of the original Lynch Mob Line-up, to the delight of many fans. Lynch Mob are currently also working on a new album, due out later this year. Lynch came to fame in the 1980s through his work as the lead guitarist in the band Dokken. Dokken had a string of successful platinum albums including Under Lock and Key and Back For The Attack, both of which featured Lynch's inventive and intricate guitar work. The track listing for Kill All Control is: 1. Kill All Control 2. Brank New Day 3. Done 4. Flys on the Wall 5. Wicked Witch 6. Man on Fire 7. Voices In My Head 8. Resurrect 9. Here Comes The Sun 10. My Enemy 11. Son of Scary. WebLink: www.myrocketscience.com.   TONY MACALPINE TO RELEASE NEW SELF-TITLED SOLO ALBUM ON JUNE 21: Legendary guitar and piano/keyboard virtuoso, Tony MacAlpine's new self titled album, to be released June 21 on Favored Nations, marks a highly-anticipated return to solo work after a prolific decade of output with his bands, including prog-metal-fusion trio Planet X; GRAMMY-nominated jazz fusion outfit CAB; power metallers Ring Of Fire; as well as performing keyboard and guitar duties in Steve Vai's double platinum DVD-selling live band The Breed from 2001-2006. When I set out to write a new album, I quickly realized that my urge to once again create and define myself as a solo artist had returned with a vengeance, said MacAlpine. This is my strongest album to date. I can't wait to hit the road and play it live. Recorded in his home studio in Pasadena, CA, Tony MacAlpine is the musician's 11th solo album. Featuring 12 tracks of guitar-laden progressive instrumental metal - MacAlpine performing 7 and 8-string guitar, keyboards, bass and programming, along with drum legends Virgil Donati (Planet X, Virgil Donati Band) on tracks 1, 5, and Marco Minnemann (Adrian Belew, Necrophagist) on tracks 3, 4, 8 & 12. Bassist Philip Bynoe (Steve Vai, Ring Of Fire) also appears on track 2. The album was mixed by Ulrich Wild (Deftones, Static X, Dethklok) and mastered by former Chief Mastering Engineer of A&M Studios, Dave Collins. One of the guitarists at the forefront of the virtuoso guitar movement of the mid-80s, 2011 marks Tony's 25th anniversary of ground-breaking guitar work (his seminal 1986 debut album Edge Of Insanity was recently ranked #4 in Guitar World magazine's Top 10 Shred Albums Of All Time), in a career spanning 11 solo albums, 13 band albums, and countless guest appearances, in genres diverse as metal, progressive fusion, neoclassical, jazz and classical piano. The album's opening tracks Serpens Cauda and Ölüdeniz are available now for FREE download in high quality MP3 at Tony's website: www.tonymacalpine.com. Tony plans to tour the album in the USA, Europe and South America later this year and 2012. Tracklist: 1. Serpens Cauda (4:23) 2. Ölüdeniz (5:16) 3. Fire Mountain (4:23) 4. Dream Mechanism (4:18) 5. Ten Seconds to Mercury (4:35) 6. Flowers For Monday (3:05) 7. Angel of Twilight (5:03) 8. Pyrokinesis (3:56) 9. Blue Maserati (4:41) 10. Summer Palace (4:36) 11. Salar de Uyuni (5:40) 12. The Dedication (4:22).   CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: In addition to the frontpage Journey spread, I have added showcases for Escape Music's June 3 releases Electric Boys and Skansis. Check them out now.

 

 

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

EMBRACE THE SUN - THE LION MUSIC JAPAN BENEFIT PROJECT - FULL DETAILS RELEASED: Released 17th June 2011 - www.lionmusic.com/cd/embracethesun.htm. Dedicated to the victims of the Tsunami and Earthquake that struck Japan in March 2011. All artists and composers as well the record label and publishing company are donating their profits from the material included to the victims in hope of a better world. All profits will be donated to the Japan Red Cross. We thank all involved for taking the time to give a little back to those that have lost so much in the aftermath of devastation in Japan. The response was simply overwhelming and we are proud to present this double CD 28 track album featuring many of the most popular acts on the Lion Music roster, along with some extra special guests. Confirmed track listing: Disc One 01. Mattsson – Mother 02. Milan Polak - End Of Time 03. Anthriel – Circle Of Life 04. Airless – Second Chance 05. Dreyelands - Life Is Worth The Pain 06. Ashent - Disappearance 07. Mastercastle - Sakura 08. Locomotive Breath - Rise Up (Perspective of The Common Man) 09. Gronholm - Believe 10. Marco Sfogli - Stand Alone 11. Mindsplit - Guardian Angel 12. Missing Tide - Falling 13. Infinity Overture - Do You Care? 14. Jennifer Batten - Sakura Season. Disc Two 01. Overdrive - New Beginning (Arata Na Staato) 02. Emir Hot - Fear of the Storm 03. Venturia - On the Brink 04. Mistheria - Kibou 05. Section A - Survive 06. Status Minor - Drama 07. Mastermind - Time Stands Still 08. Tomorrow's Eve - Black Barren Lands 09. Iron Mask - Sons of the Sun 10. Astra - Voice from Within 11. Benny Jansson- Savior 12. Early Cross - Cairn 13. Winterlong - Failed Connection 14. The Lions - Embrace the Sun. All artists that appear on this benefit album have in most cases written and recorded their songs especially for Embrace The Sun, and in a number of cases these tracks represent the first recorded output with new band line-ups i.e. Ashent (new vocalist Titta Tani), Astra (new vocalist Andrea Casali), Venturia (new vocalist Florine Acquisto and drummer Frederic Marchal) and Iron Mask (new vocalist Carsten 'Lizard' Schulz and drummer Ramy Ali). Milan Polak is joined by some special guests in guitarists Peter Lesperance (Harem Scarem) and Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal (Guns N Roses), whilst Kip Winger (Winger) performs bass guitar and drums come courtesy of Dennis Leeflang (Bumblefoot / Lita Ford) for the track End Of Time which is completed by background vocals from Harry Hess (Harem Scarem). The album also showcases some home-grown Japanese talent in new label signing, progressive rockers Early Cross, whilst the direct influence of the aftermath in Japan can be heard on Jennifer Batten's track 'Sakura Season' was written after her visit to the country in April 2011. Virtuoso guitarists unite for the closing title track which sees solos from Milan Polak, Francesco Fareri, Daniel Palmqvist (The Murder Of My Sweet), Simone Fiorletta (No Gravity), Dave Martone, Borislav Mitic, Franck Ribiere (Double Heart Project) and Lars Eric Mattsson. Elsewhere the album is full of excellent new tracks that run the gamut from heavy and powerful to tender and emotional across a number of rock and metal styles. Millions have been affected by the tsunami following the massive earthquake off the coast of Japan and all artists involved and all staff at Lion Music hope that the revenue generated from this release will hopefully make some difference to those affected who look to Embrace The Future. Lion Music: www.lionmusic.com.   FIREHOUSE COME FULL CIRCLE WITH RE-RECORDINGS: FireHouse have re-recorded a selection of their hits and fan favourites for a new release called Full Circle. It will be released June 1 and features the following tracks: 1. Overnight Sensation 4:02 2. Shake And Tumble 3:44 3. Hold the Dream 5:04 4. All She Wrote 4:29 5. Love of A Lifetime 4:57 6. Don't Treat Me Bad 4:00 7. Reach For the Sky 4:49 8. When I Look Into Your Eyes 4:10 9. You Are My Religion 4:36 10. I Live My Life For You 4:31 11. Christmas With You.   BCC OFFER FREE DOWNLOAD TRACK - THE OUTSIDER: Black Country Communion have just issued a free download of the first track from their forthcoming second studio album "2". Entitled "The Outsider", the new song is available as a free download from the Official BCC website: bccommunion.com/outsider/. In the UK and the rest of Europe, Mascot Records will issue an exclusive limited edition DigiPack of Black Country Communion's "2" album, produced by Kevin Shirley (Aerosmith, Journey, Black Crowes). The limited edition DigiPack is available for pre-order now, and includes hand-written liner notes from each member of the band, plus exclusive photographs. The sleeve artwork will be embossed in a high quality "grain texture" finishing. Fans can order the limited edition CD digipack from Amazon UK: amzn.to/ipSfbr, and Play.com: bit.ly/lBOr0V. An exclusive double gatefold vinyl edition can be ordered from Amazon UK: amzn.to/isMIO5. The forthcoming BCC album features the song "Save Me", originally intended to be performed by Led Zeppelin after their 2007 reunion concert at London's O2 Arena. The song, written by Jason Bonham, was intended to be worked on by Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones and Jimmy Page, but was abandoned when Robert Plant opted out from touring with the band. Earlier this year, before Jason entered the studio to record the new Black Country album, he gave "Save Me" to BCC's vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes, who finished the arrangement and wrote the lyrics. "Save Me originally started off as an idea that I worked on with Jimmy and John," says Bonham. "You'll notice it - there's a slight Zepesque riff - It's got a definite feel to it." Read the official UK BCC 2 album press release here - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/blackcountrycommunion/album2.htm.   ROCK N' ROLLERS VAINS OF JENNA ON TOUR NOW: Los Angeles-based rock n' rollers Vains Of Jenna are on tour right now, bringing it hard each night with their infectious brand of rock. The band is hot on their heels with the release of their latest album, Reverse Tripped, which was released on April 5th. Along with this, Vains Of Jenna recently shot a music video covering Cee Lo's song "Fuck You", and virally, the music video has been receiving great response. You can check out the action here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-cjwC8jTe0. Comments drummer Jacki Stone: "You gotta love being on tour! Going from city to city and to play in front of your fans all over the country is a great feeling. We are early into the tour and still have about 2 months to go... I wish it'll never end. Even better, now that we have the killer 'Reverse Tripped' album out, it makes it even more fun to see what the reaction might be from the crowd every night". Since forming in Falkenberg, Sweden in 2005, Vains Of Jenna attracted the attention of Bam Margera which later led to TV appearances on Jackass, LA Ink, and the band has toured with Gwar, Cradle Of Filth, Cky, Poison, Wednesday 13, and more. Straight up action packed, and the band is surely proving how rock n' roll will never die – get your fix! WebLink: www.myspace.com/vainsofjenna. MEMORIAL FOR A WISH MUSICAL DUE: Since May 2010 Norwegian musician and composer Andreas Nergård has written material for a metal musical entitled "Memorial For A Wish." The musical is being recorded in Trondheim Studio (Trondheim/Norway) right now with the outstanding producer Conor Patrick. This musical will be released on two individual albums (ACT 1 & ACT 2) during 2011-2012. A promo EP entitled "In The Beginning" will be released on 30th of May 2011. It contains four tracks off this musical and features performances by well-known names like Ralf Scheepers (Primal Fear, Gamma Ray), Tony Mills (TNT, Shy), Mike Vescera (Yngwie Malmsteen, Loudness), Åge Sten Nilsen (Wig Wam), Göran Edman (Yngwie Malmsteen, John Norum) and Helge Engelke (Fair Warning). During the upcoming time even more respected singers from the European/American Melodic Metal scene will be revealed for upcoming albums. The story of "Memorial For A Wish" is set in Dublin, Ireland, in 1890: The young man Peter O'Donnell is arrested and wrongfully accused for a burglary which he did not commit. After a short trial he is sentenced to prison for twenty years. In desperation he is forced to leave his pregnant wife behind and live in solitude behind the prison walls. Twenty long years passes by and Peter is released from jail, only to find out that his beloved wife died many years ago while giving birth to their daughter. The friends he once had turn their backs on him and let him face the grief all alone. This eventually tears him apart. As the hands of sorrow and despair becomes to much to handle he ends up committing suicide. The Line-up for the albums will be: Ralf Scheepers (Primal Fear, Gamma Ray) Tony Mills (TNT, Shy) Mike Vescera (Yngwie Malmsteen, Loudness) Åge Sten Nilsen (Wig Wam) Göran Edman (Yngwie Malmsteen, John Norum) Helge Engelke (Fair Warning) David Reece (Bangaloir Choir, Accept). More singers will be confirmed during May and June. You can read more about the project on this sites www.facebook.com/memorialforawish & www.myspace.com/memorialforawishmusical.   Mecca - Undeniable. Six years in the making. Coming 2011.

 

 

Monday, May 09, 2011

MRCD8 - THE NEXT CHAPTER REVEALED: MRCD8 - The Next Chapter is on the horizon, with a release date set for July 4. Pre-orders will commence May 20 with ALL pre-orders shipping 2 weeks prior to the official release date (ship June 20). The title The Next Chapter is again a double meaning. It is the next chapter in the MRCD series, but it also will mark the next chapter of MelodicRock.com in general...a new start. The brand new MR website is still under construction and the timing of its launch will be close to the release of this compilation. So, The Next Chapter awaits... I am very pleased to announce the track listing for The Next Chapter - a mix of the old and the new, the known and the unknown. MRCD8 is a single CD this time around, but still packed full with great tracks. Full cover to be revealed soon. Soundbytes to follow. Details follow each track: 01) Andreas Novak - A New Hope 03:36 (Advance preview of track from the upcoming Novakation album) 02) Michael Bates - Tell Me 03:27 (Advance preview of track from TBA solo debut, produced and played on by Erkka Korhonen/Urban Tale) 03) Nelson - The Church of Rock N Roll 06:00 (Exclusive to this release - unreleased hard rocking Nelson demo) 04) Shining Line - The Best Thing Inside Of Me 06:16 (Exclusive to this release - recorded in 2010 especially for MRCD8) 05) Jamie Allen - That's Rock n Roll 03:19 (Advance preview of track from upcoming TBA debut, produced by Johnny Lima) 06) Bob Halligan Jr - No Means Yes 03:30 (Demo)(Advance preview of brand new solo album to be recorded later this year, co-written by Fredrik Bergh) 07) W.E.T. - Running From The Heartache 04:24 (Demo)(Exclusive to this release - Demo version with lead vocals from Erik Martensson) 08) Leverage - The Real Law 02:56 (Exclusive to this release - previously unreleased track!) 09) Paradise Inc - I Will Wait 05:11 (Advance preview of brand new band, from upcoming debut album) 10) Outloud - Waiting For Your Love 04:11 (Advance preview track from upcoming Love Catastrophe album due in July) 11) N.O.W. - Strong Enough 04:14 (Exclusive to this release - recorded especially for MRCD8 and once again featuring vocals by Philip Bardowell) 12) Mike Tramp - The Road 04:29 (Acoustic Version)(Exclusive to this release - previously unreleased) 13) Soaked - Believe 03:10 (Previously Unreleased - from unreleased album/band featuring Steve Brown of Trixter) 14) Thom Griffin - Rain 05:00 (Exclusive to this release - new Thom Griffin solo ballad) 15) Jeremy Brunner - Lay Me Down 04:53 (Advance preview track from upcoming TBA debut, featuring Keith St. John on vocals) 16) Big Nature - Far From Reborn 04:44 (Advance preview track of new band featuring Outloud's Chandler Mogel on vocals) 17) Code Of Silence - Here To Heaven 06:32 (Advance preview track of new band, debut album TBA) 18) Liberty & Justice - Playing God 03:46 (From the L&J Chasing A Cure EP)   DANTE FOX GO DIGITAL: UK Female fronted melodic rockers Dante Fox have digitally re-releasing their First Two albums Under Suspicion and The Fire Within. Both albums have been sought after in recent years with high prices being asked for the original releases. You can now download both albums from the following stores - iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, MySpace Music, MediaNet, Zune, Rhapsody, Nokia, Napster, Thumbplay. You can access full songs from the bands widget player: www.tunecore.com/widgets/show /64483. The band are in the final stages of recording new material for the follow up to Under The Seven Skies released by Frontiers in 2007. Joining original members Sue Willetts (Vocals), Tim Manford (Guitar) are joined by Drummer Andy Perfect (who has been with the band since 2008), US Keyboard Maestro Eric Ragno and Eden's Alan Mills on Bass guitar. Song titles include Lost Man's Ground (7 minute epic which is both incredibly heavy, pompy and melodic), Who Stole Your Innocence and Message. There will be a single released in August which will be aired exclusively on Steve Price Show on ARFM before hand. For the latest updates and samples please visit www.myspace.com/dantefox and www.facebook.com/dantefoxfanpage. DEF LEPPARD SONGS AS LULLABYS? WHY DIDN'T I THINK OF THAT?: eOne Music and Happiness Records has announced the release of Dreamin' With Def Leppard, the first installment of the popular Rock The Cradle series, on June 28. The Rock The Cradle series features lullaby renditions of popular songs from legendary rock groups, and is the only lullaby series that series that features full band production and original members of the band. Dreamin' With Def Leppard is no exception, as it features DEF LEPPARD guitarists Phil Collen and Vivian Campbell, performing 12 of the bands biggest hits. And, contrary to the usual simple keyboard and xylophone production, each track features a complete band production. Def Leppard's biggest hits are melodic at their core, and for the Leppard "lullification" process, we wrapped those great melodies with a warm blanket. Dreamin' With Def Leppard includes 12 song set featuring some of Def Leppard's greatest hits. Now, the toddler set has a rockin' way to go to sleep. The tracklisting: 'Pour Some Sugar On Me', 'Hysteria', 'Photograph', 'Love Bites', 'Foolin'', 'Have You Ever Needed Someone So Bad', 'Bringin' on the Heartbreak', 'Too Late For Love', 'Stand Up (Kick Love Into Motion)', 'Promises, 'Animal', 'Rock of Ages'. NEAL MORSE ANNOUNCES TESTIMONY 2 - A NEW 2-CD PROGRESSIVE ROCK STUDIO ALBUM: 5/6/2011 - Nashville, TN - Some stories are left unfinished. Sometimes the best part is what happens after the tale's end. Nearly a decade ago, Neal Morse released his landmark autobiographical progressive rock epic, Testimony. Now, he returns with an extraordinary cast of musicians to tell the rest of the story in Testimony 2. And he's saved the best for last. Picking up where he left off on Testimony, the sequel begins with Neal in the mid-90s when his band, Spock's Beard, begins to experience unexpected success. Neal sings about their glory days in Time Change and the original band members join in. It's a vocal extravaganza in their classic style and an extraordinary moment. The album goes on to tell of Morse's daughter, Jayda, being born with a heart defect. Her miraculous healing has an unexpected impact on Neal, with repercussions that reverberate throughout the album. Morse goes on into later years, quitting his regular gig in the Eric Burdon band, and continuing with Spock's Beard. Along the way, he discovers something beyond his imagination. The album concludes with "Crossing Over," which describes his ultimate departure from Spock's Beard in 2002. Neal Morse launched his solo career, the next year, with Testimony. With the sequel, Testimony 2, he dives deeper into unchartered musical and lyrical territory. Incorporating legendary drummer Mike Portnoy and brilliant bassist Randy George, this breathtaking album is a prog epic with breadth that dazzles and melodies that reach into the soul. The story ends here (for now), but the music goes on. On the second CD, the songs include a 25-minute progressive rock epic featuring Steve Morse. In addition, the Testimony 2 Special Edition includes a behind-the-scenes DVD documentary about the making of the album. Neal's largest tour, ever, will bring Testimony 2 to audiences throughout Europe and the United States. Coinciding with the album and tour will be the release of his autobiography, appropriately entitled Testimony. Together, all three occasions make for a unique artistic achievement, and Neal's greatest undertaking, to date. WebLinks: nealmorse.com • facebook.com/nealmorse • myspace.com/nealmorse.   SCELERATA: CHECKING IN FROM BLIND GUARDIAN' STUDIO: As previously reported Scelerata is working on their third album, which is being partially recorded in Germany at Twilight Hall Studios, studio owned by Blind Guardian, and being produced by Charlie Bauerfeind (Helloween, Blind Guardian, Rage, Saxon, Halford, Hammerfall, Motörhead). In April 24th the drummer Francis Cassol and the guitarist Renato Osorio flew to Germany. Check out below a few comments about the recording process. "We are in Twilight Hall Studios, Germany, for the past days, working in Charlie Bauerfeind's pace. His way of work is to exhaust the drummer, playing around 4 hours a day, extracting the maximum of strength and accuracy until we achieve the desired result, unlike of I always recorded so far, recording 3 or 4 songs per day in long recording sessions. No wonder that the drum sound of his works always sounds amazing, and we can really feel the drummer giving everything he has to the song. Speaking of drum sound, I never had one like this. It's being a good surprise for all os us, even for Charlie! We are using Dani Löeble (Helloween drummer) drum kit, a new Yahama Birch Custom Absolute, which had never been in a recording room. The mics are Earthworks, a north-American brand used by musicians like Neil Peart, fo example. Most of cymbals are Paiste, belonging to the studio, except for three or four, which also belong to Dani. The Twilight Hall Studios obviously revolves around Blind Guardian. There are banners, photo panels, posters, t-shirts, mugs, etc. Everything from Blind Guardian. Here runs not only the studio, but also the band's accounting office, merchandising and equipment warehouse. It is really big, very organized and professional, really consistent with how big Blind Guardian is. We are really happy with the results we got so far! Charlie is an outstanding guy, always friendly and good-humored, but also completely committed with his work, which makes us understand why he is requested by the major European metal bands! Soon we will send more news and photos!" - Francis Cassol. Recently Scelerata posted online a demo version of "Rising Sun", track which will be featured on the new album. Check it out at www.myspace.com/scelerataband or www.scelerata.com. MASS ANNOUNCE NEW SHOWS: New shows just announced, with Mass joining Cinderella for two shows: August 3rd At: "Showcase Live" Foxboro, MA. Tickets available now! August 10th At: "Casino Ballroom" Hampton Beach,New Hampshire. Tickets on sale Friday May 13. July 23 Rock 101's own DJ Scorch's summer time Benefit! "Inflation Disinagration Outdoor Beer-B-Que show" at Auburn Pitts! 167 Rockingham Road, Auburn, NH September 23 at: Maddy's 1689 Broadway, Saugus, MA. 781-231-1185 with very special guests "The Riffniks" More info at: www.massrocks.com.

 

 

Friday, May 06, 2011

Andreas Novak - Novakation (MRR007) Track Listing and Soundbytes: 01 - Highway To Anywhere 02 - I Must Be Mad 03 - Days Of Our Lives 04 - Dare To Believe 05 - Keep This Flame 06 - No Vacation 07 - Part Of Your Plan 08 - A New Hope 09 - Light Years 10 - Mr. Cred 11 - Yesterday's Rain 12 - 2009 Debut solo album from Mind's Eye/Novak vocalist, now fronting House Of Shakira! Pre-Sales Available Now $15 + $5 shipping ($4 if buying both CDs) June 6 Advance Shipping for pre-orders June 20 OFFICIAL RELEASE.   Infinity - Infinity (MRR006) Track Listing and Soundbytes: 01 - I'm On The Edge 02 - Secrets 03 - She's On Fire 04 - Christine 05 - Let It Go 06 - Liar 07 - Promise 08 - Over You 09 - Running Classic lost album from 1986, released for the first time on any format! Featuring Mitch Malloy, David Rosenthal and Reb Beach! Pre-Sales Available Now $15 + $5 shipping ($4 if buying both CDs) June 6 Advance Shipping for pre-orders June 20 OFFICIAL RELEASE.   HARD BACK ON AN EVEN KEEL: From the clubs of obscurity to the high flying stadiums on tour with the mighty Kiss, a debut album mixed by the respected Beau Hill followed by a well received second album 'Time Is Waiting For No One'. This Hungarian band in their short time have done it all, and they are going to do it again. On March 18th 2011 HARD are ready to burn some serious rubber with their brand new heavy 10 track mean machine Even Keel. A roller coast ride of heavy rockin' hooks cooked up with sweat and sinew. HARD are back and they are inviting you along for the ride. Written, recorded and mixed between Autumn 2010 and Spring 2011, the new songs demonstrate the band's progression in terms of playing and song writing whilst refining a wide range of different musical influences.'Even Keel' is front man Björn Lodin's second album with the band, and here Lodin shines! The chemistry between Lodin and the lads is apparent right throughout the album. Joining the band for the first time is feisty guitar man Zsolt Vámos, who has also lent his hand in the song-writing department. HARD let it soar with no rules heavy rock laid out. 'Even Keel' is the sound of a tightly tuned unit floored to max. This album totally rocks! 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, "Traveler", was released worldwide in March 2008. The band has appeared in the biggest international hard rock & heavy metal magazines, such as Metal Hammer, Burrn!, Fireworks, Hardline, Powerplay etc. In August 2009, the band announced that they have joined forces with acclaimed Swedish vocalist/guitarist/producer Björn Lodin (Baltimoore). The band released a new album entitled 'Time Is Waiting For No One', in Feb 2010 and are now ready with yet another smashing release; 'Even Keel' - released on BLP Music, March 2011. Band Line Up: Björn Lodin - Vocals, Guitar; Zsolt Borbély - Drums; Gabor Mirkovics - Bass; Zsolt Vámos - Guitar. Tracklisting: 1- Truth Or Dare 2- Bitten By You 3- Pretty Little Liar 4- Promises 5- I Wanna Rock You 6- Speeding Into Slow 7- Somewhere 8- Keep Out 9- Scream Out To Be Heard 10- In Your Arms. New video Scream Out To Be Heard: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoyJI1cxzfk.   MORE GREATEST HITS FROM MOLLY HATCHET: New Greatest Hits album will be released in May / June 2011 - contains one previously unreleased track... Southern Rock is now considered an American icon in music history. Not only has it resonated in the southern part of the United States, but it has grown to touch the lives of people across the world through its songs and recorded albums, on concert stages, and throughout an international fan correspondence database. When the first album "Molly Hatchet" was released in 1978, no one knew that over 30 years later Molly Hatchet would still be recording and performing worldwide to some of the most loyal fans in the music community. As history has now shown, through all the generations of the band…Molly Hatchet is still delivering its own brand of southern heritage, year after year. This Greatest Hits II Collection is Molly Hatchet`s gift to the fans in appreciation of their dedication and support for over 3 decades. The first CD contains the best studio recordings from the last 15 years compiled by Bobby Ingram himself. The second CD is filled with the best live recordings of Molly Hatchet classics plus one previously unreleased track named "Sacred Ground". On top the booklet contains new photos and new liner notes by Bobby Ingram and this double CD will be sold for the price of one. There`s only one more to say which is the message of the band to the world: The South Has Risen Again! Tracklisting: CD 1 01. Son Of The South 04:44 02. Heart Of The USA 04:00 03. Tatanka 05:01 04. Fall Of The Peacemakers 06:55 05. American Pride 04:02 06. Devil`s Canyon 06:18 07. World Of Trouble 05:33 08. Down From The Mountain 04:38 09. Gonna Live `til I Die 08:30 10. Safe In My Skin 04:33 11. Rainbow Bridge 06:18 12. Cornbread Mafia 03:27 13. Mississipi Moon Dog 03:47 14. The Journey 07:20. CD 2 01. Bounty Hunter (live) 03:31 02. Gator County (live) 07:08 03. Edge Of Sundown (live) 6:58 04. Whiskey Man (live) 03:45 05. Beatin' The Odds (live) 03:35 06. Dreams I´ll Never See (live) 08:02 07. The Creeper (live) 04:55 08. Flirtin' With Disaster (live) 06:22 09. Sacred Ground 07:07 - Previously unreleased. "Greatest Hits II" will be released in Germany on May 20th, in Europe on May 23rd and in the USA/Canada on June 14th through SPV / Steamhammer. Tour dates Europe: 09.06. FI-Helsinki – Club Dom 10.06. FI-Lahti – Ace Corner 11.06. SE-Sölvesborg – Sweden Rock Festival 30.07. D-Seebronn – Rock Of Ages Festival 05.08. F-Clerrmont Ferrand - Free Wheels Festival For more tourdates please visit the band`s homepage at: www.mollyhatchet.com / www.spv.de.   MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Runaway Stray - Demos (UK 89)(4 Tracks) - Peter Yttergren - Demo (Sweden)(13 Tracks) - Maeday (Swedish AOR - 9 Tracks) Plus the following new videos have been added: Danger Avenue - Bigger Than All of Us and West Coast Angel; Bad Sister - Surrender; Billion Dollar Babies - Restless Minds; Androids - Let It All Out; Bombay - Rumble Tonight. Join MRX now.

 

 

Thursday, May 05, 2011

DEF LEPPARD LANDS EUROPEAN DEAL WITH FRONTIERS RECORDS: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of Def Leppard for the release of the upcoming live album Mirror Ball on June 17 in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, June 20 in the rest of Europe and June 23 in France. Mirror Ball is Def Leppard's first ever live album. The group's spectacular live shows, filled with powerful melodic rock anthems, have become synonymous with their name, leading Def Leppard to be heralded as an institution in both the music and touring industry. It makes perfect sense that the band would finally release a live album, Mirror Ball, featuring all of the triumphant hits that continue to make Def Leppard one of the most admired rock bands in the world. Mirror Ball was recorded across the world over the course of many of the band's sold-out dates and features all of the classic songs that have made Def Leppard one of the most respected and beloved power rock bands in the world. The album captures the group's legendary concert experience at its thunderous best, bringing together live versions of classic Leppard hits such as "Pour Some Sugar On Me," "Rock Of Ages," "Foolin'," "Hysteria," "Photograph" and an incredible rendition of "Bringing On The Heartbreak." With their creative juices at full flow, the band has also added three new studio tracks: "Undefeated," "It's All About Believin'" and "Kings Of The World," that are undeniably Def Leppard and take their place with ease within this classic setlist. Joe Elliott says, "I'm really happy that we've been able to include three brand new songs on the album, all VERY different from each other & a teaser of what our next studio album will be like. We could have waited until next year, but to be quite honest, we're so excited with the new songs we want people to hear them now!" Rick Savage adds, "The 3 new songs on this release are what Def Leppard is and has always has been about. These songs are not just thrown in to have something not heard before. Personally, I think it's THE best work we have put together in years. From the "Sugar" quality of "Undefeated" to the Hysteria/Animal melodic rock of "It's all about Believing," to the ambitious and over the top epic, "Kings of the world. "The message is in the titles. If ever you needed reminding, the heartbeat of Leppard is as strong as ever." Also included will be a 50 mins. bonus DVD that contains energetic live performances and intimate backstage footage of the band captured on the road.  Mirror Ball follows the band's 2008 studio release, Songs From The Sparkle Lounge, which debuted at #5 on the Billboard Top 200, marking the group's highest chart position in the USA since 1992's Adrenalize. With more than 65 million albums sold worldwide and two prestigious Diamond Awards (Def Leppard are one of only five rock bands to have two consecutive 10 million plus selling albums in the U.S. - the others are The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and Van Halen) to their credit, Def Leppard - Joe Elliott (vocals), Phil Collen (guitar), Rick "Sav" Savage (bass), Vivian Campbell (guitar) and Rick Allen (drums) - continue to be one of the most important forces in rock music. Over the course of their career, the band has produced a series of classic ground breaking albums that set the bar for generations of music fans and artists alike. The group's spectacular live shows, filled with powerful melodic rock anthems, continue to sell out venues worldwide. Their epic live show and arsenal of hits have become synonymous with their name, leading Def Leppard to be heralded as an institution in both the music and touring industry. Mirror Ball tracklisting includes: CD1: Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop); Rocket; Animal; C'mon C'mon; Make Love Like a Man; Too Late for Love; Foolin'; Nine Lives; Love Bites; Rock On. CD2; Two Steps Behind; Bringin' On the Heartbreak; Switch 625; Hysteria; Armageddon It; Photograph; Pour Some Sugar on Me; Rock Of Ages; Let's Get Rocked; Action; Bad Actress; Undefeated*; Kings of the World*; It's All About Believin'*. * New studio tracks. DVD includes live performances of: Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop); Armageddon It; Pour Some Sugar On Me; Hysteria. Music videos: Nine Lives; C'Mon C'Mon. The new single "Undefeated" can be streamed on www.defleppard.com and on Frontiers Records webradio: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Def Leppard Tour Dates In Europe Tues 7th June 2011 - The Odyssey Arena, Belfast, N. Ireland Wed 8th June 2011 - The O2, Dublin, Eire Fri 10th June 2011 - Download Festival, UK WebLinks: www.defleppard.com /www.frontiers.it.   xx BRAND NEW WARRANT VIDEO AND EPK REVEALED: The first single from Warrant's forthcoming album Rockaholic and its companion video have just been revealed. "Life's A Song" will impact at Rock radio this month and finds Warrant returning to their trademark melodically-infused hard rock sound. The video for "Life's A Song" takes a look at the bands long and winding road in the world of music and can be viewed here. Warrant has also just released an EPK chronicling the making of Rockaholic; it can be viewed below. Rockaholic is due out on May 13th n Europe and May 17th in North America via Frontiers Records. At the helm is mega-producer Keith Olsen (Ozzy Osbourne, Whitesnake, Scorpions) and the album is mixed by Pat Regan (Kiss, Deep Purple, Ted Nugent). Warrant is: Joey Allen (guitar), Jerry Dixon (bass), Robert Mason (vocals), Steven Sweet (drums) and Erik Turner (guitar). With 8 million records sold worldwide, two Top Ten Billboard albums, five Top 40 Billboard hit singles and five #1 MTV videos, Warrant is one of the most popular and successful rock bands to hail out of the Los Angeles rock scene. "Rockaholic" is sure to capture the band another strip in rock history. Warrant will play on select tour dates around the world; please see below for the itinerary. WebLink: www.warrantrocks.com / www.frontiers.it.   NEW TESLA ON THE WAY: Tesla's Brian Wheat, Frank Hannon, and Jeff Keith have reviewed the tracks from the last recording sessions with former guitarist Tommy Skeoch from the 2005 "Acoustic Jam" tour, as well as the recently recorded tracks featuring the new Tesla song "Second Street" to be released this year. Tesla's Record Company has signed a deal with EONE distribution to release this new CD…tentatively titled Twisted Wires (The Acoustic Sessions). Troy Luccketta, will be joining Frank and Brian at Sonic Ranch studios where the Real To Reel sessions were recorded and they will collectively wrap up the recording and mixing of "Twisted Wires" simultaneously, utilizing the studio's amazing analogue equipment to record and mix down the tracks. The album will consist of 6 tracks recorded back in 2005 at Brian's J Street Studio (luckily these tracks survived the infamous fire!) and 6 newly recorded tracks recorded at Frank Hannon's studio including acoustic remakes of songs from "Bust a Nut" and a brand new song "Second Street". During all of this Jeff Keith and his wife will be welcoming the arrival of their baby boy due at the end of February! After all this mayhem is finished...Tesla will be writing a follow up studio album of all new material with guitarist Dave Rude starting in March 2011 and performing select dates across the USA. In the meantime Dave Rude Band, SoulMotor, and FHB will be finishing up some tour dates supporting their solo efforts... Stay Tuned for more! WHO CARES - OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE: Who Cares ­ the renewed musical union between legendary Deep Purple singer Ian Gillan and none other than Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi: the undisputed master of heavy guitar riffs ­ will release its debut digital single will be release May 6th via Eagle Rock Entertainment. The physical CD/DVD single will be made available in Europe on May 24 through earMUSIC and June 27th in North America via Eagle Rock Entertainment. The single features two brand new studio tracks "Out Of My Mind" and "Holy Water", which will raise funds for the rebuilding of a music school in Gyumri, Armenia. The 2 Song - CD single will also contain the video clip of "Out Of My Mind" and a 40-minute documentary that shows Gillan's and Iommi's involvement with the Armenia cause over the years. Speaking to Armenia's Mediamax news agency, Gillan was asked what the experience of working with Iommi again was like compared to their previous collaboration. "It was great to work with Tony again," Gillan replied. "He is very easy to write with and as a singer I know exactly where he's going. It wasn't dramatic, just friendly and professional." He added, "We hope to do it again sometime in the not-too-distant future. It wasn't like the last experience with Black Sabbath; that was a band and an album ­ totally different." When asked how the inspiration for the song "Out Of My Mind" came out right after he visiting Armenia in October 2009, Ian said, "Well, normally... people like us who work with bands write the bits that we play. In this case, with 'Out of My Mind', Tony presented the entire musical idea and I wrote what I sing over the top, or along with it, if you prefer. The second track of the Who Cares single, 'Holy Water', was a bit different as I wrote that with Steve Morse (Deep Purple) and Tony was gracious enough to play guitar on it." Both Gillan and Iommi have spent a lot of time in Armenia, fallen in love with the country and the people and have dedicated a lot of work to a nation still shocked after the earthquake that struck Armenia on December 7, 1988. The collaboration of Gillan and Iommi, who have worked together before on the Sabbath album "Born Again", is in itself an incredible news for all rock and metal fans and will be the best of surprises to get to know who is completing the band: None other than Jon Lord ("Mr. Hammond", partner with Gillan on all the Deep Purple classics), Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain, ex-Metallica bassist Jason Newsted and HIM guitarist player Mikko "Linde" Lindström are also featured on the two new songs. Commented Gillan: "The idea came as Tony and I flew back from Yerevan together after being inspired by the enthusiasm of everyone there to get this thing done. It was brilliant working with Tony again after all these years; he makes life easy for a singer. The other guys need no introduction, do they?!" Added Iommi: "Some twenty years ago when the call came, I thought, well at least I've helped, but it was going to Armenia and seeing the actual devastation caused by the earthquake that really made me realize that funds were still needed. Despite all the money that was raised last time, here was a music school doing their best, forgotten, in basic tin sheds. After the warmth and honor bestowed upon us during our visit, we just had to help make a difference and get the school rebuilt. And what better way than to hook up with some of rock's greatest players and my old mate Ian, both an honor and a pleasure." "Out Of My Mind" recording lineup: * Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath) - Guitar, * Ian Gillan (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath) - Vocals, * Jason Newsted (Metallica, Voivod, Flotsam And Jetsam) - Bass, * Nicko Mcbrain (Iron Maiden) - Drums, * Jon Lord (Deep Purple) - Keyboards, * Mikko "Linde" Lindström (HIM) - Guitar. "Holy Water" recording lineup: * Ian Gillan (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath) - Vocals, * Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath) - Guitar, * Steve Morris - Guitar, * Michael Lee Jackson - Guitar, * Randy Clarke - Drums, * Rodney Appleby - Bass, * Jesse O'Brien - Hammond Organ, * Arshak Sahakyan - Duduk Solo, * Ara Gevorgyan - Underlying Duduk Intro Music And Keys. Out Of My Mind (Official Music Video) www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJFL-scaPCI / Who Cares (EPK Video) vimeo.com/23277058.   TWISTED SISTER INVITES YOU UNDER THE BLADE: New York, NY (May 4, 2011)—Eagle Rock Entertainment will release the landmark metal debut of 1982, Under The Blade by Twisted Sister, on May 31. The CD—originally produced by Pete Way of UFO—will also contain four tracks from their 1982 Ruff Cuts EP (never before on CD) as well as Shoot ˜Em Down, an ˜82 live track from England's prestigious Reading Festival. The lavish package features the original Under The Blade cover, which has not appeared on any domestic versions of the album until now, and reflects the original Secret Records track list and remastered audio mix. The DVD contains the entire previously-unreleased Reading concert. Vocalist Dee Snider, guitarists Jay Jay French and Eddie Ojeda, bassist Mark Mendoza and drummer A.J. Pero gave the crowd something they had not exactly ever seen before. It was, for all intents and purposes, a coming-out affair for this great band. They play as if their life depends upon it. They play as if they have something to prove. And they did. They're young, hungry, determined and wind up headbanging with a desperate ferocity usually reserved for those kinds of life-altering performances that make a band. This is one of those performances. The set concludes with a show-stopping version of It's Only Rock N Roll as the band jams out with Pete Way and Motorhead's Fast Eddie Clarke and Lemmy! The DVD also includes 40 minutes of newly shot interviews with the band about the recording of Under The Blade and the Reading Festival. French joined the band Silver Star, a New Jersey based 'Glitter Band" in December 1972. The band, whose original purpose was to be the New Jersey version of the New York Dolls, changed their name to Twisted Sister on Valentine's Day 1973. The band however continually changed line-ups and didn't take off until Snider joined in 1976. The lineup didn't fully coalesce until 1982 with the final addition of drummer AJ Pero. Under The Blade first came out on an independent UK based label called Secret Records, but really gained momentum when Atlantic Records released a different mix of the album nationally in 1985 while taking advantage of the bands newly minted stardom. Their meteoric ascent came in tandem with the simultaneous rise of MTV. This version you now have in your hands is the most requested and sought after. The new digital re-mastered original mix of Under the Blade.   WARRANT VOCALIST ROBERT MASON TO DROP IN ON ALL HAIL HAIR FRIDAY NIGHT: This Friday night (5/6) at 8:30PM EST, All Hail Hair will welcome Robert Mason, the lead vocalist of Warrant! Hosted by Bob Carroll and Francis, the guys will speak to Mason about the bands soon to be released album, Rockoholic on Frontiers Records. They will also play two new songs off of the album, Life's a Song and Sex Ain't Love. The show always welcomes listener participation, so call in at (347) 202-0832. Warrant first broke onto the music scene with the 1989 album Dirty, Rotten, Filthy, Stinking Rich an album that spawned three hits, Down Boys, Sometimes She Cries and the 80s top power ballad Heaven. They followed that album up with another strongly performing album, Cherry Pie which contained the title track, their biggest selling hit. Also included on that album were the hits I Saw Red and Bob's favorite Warrant song Uncle Tom's Cabin. The early 90s brought a change to the music scene and with it, the music of bands like Warrant was affected, yet the band still produced another incredible effort in the 1992 release Dog Eat Dog. Two more albums were recorded after this, 1995's Ultraphonic and 1996's Belly To Belly before the band splintered apart. The band re-grouped in 2000 and released the album Under the Influence in 2001. That would be the last album with vocalist Jani Lane as he left in 2004 to pursue solo projects. Lane was replaced by Jamie St. James, lead vocalist of the much underrated Black N Blue, from 2004-2008, releasing Born Again. In 2008 Warrant re-grouped the line-up from its most popular days, to include Jani Lane and set out on tour. That reunion was not to last long as Lane once again departed from Warrant. The band went on a search for a new vocalist and decided on former Lynch Mob front man Robert Mason to lead Warrant into 2009 and beyond. Sounding as strong as ever, the band is currently touring and on May 17th, will release its first album, Rockoholic, since 2006's Born Again. All Hail Hair is broadcast every Friday night at 8 PM EST on the Fightin' Words Radio Network and is the networks highest rated show. To take part in the show, dial (347) 202-0832. To listen in to the show live and in archive, click here: www.blogtalkradio.com/fightinwordsradio/2011/05/07/all-hail-hair--robert-mason-of-warrant.

 

 

Wednesday, May 04, 2011

It has been a while between drinks for MelodicRock Records, but that doesn't mean nothing has been going on behind the scenes. It may be an unintended late start to the 2011 year, but there are some great new releases on the near horizon. Full details and some long awaited soundbytes are due online in a couple of days. But here is the information you have been waiting for. INFINITY - Infinity (MRR006) and ANDREAS NOVAK - Novakation (MRR007) May 6 Pre-Sales Available. June 6 Advance Shipping for pre-orders. June 20 OFFICIAL RELEASE.   xx RICK SPRINGFIELD TRIBUTE - Working Class Dogs (MRR008) and TAXXI Traxx (MRR009) - June 20 Pre-Sales Available. July 11 Pre-Sales Advance Shipping. July 25 OFFICIAL RELEASE.   xx RIVERDOGS - World Gone Mad (MRR010) July 25 Pre-Sales Available. August 8 Pre-Sales Advance Shipping. August 22 OFFICIAL RELEASE.   MelodicRock Compilation – The Next Chapter (MRCD8) May 20 Pre-Sales Available w/Bonus Tracks. June 20 Pre-Sales Advance Shipping. July 4 OFFICIAL RELEASE. Cover to be fully revealed soon...   MELODIC ROCK AUCTION ISSUES: You might have realized no further MR Mega-Auction items have been added to the site. It's always something... It appears there is a bug in the software that sends the system haywire every time an auction finishes. This does not affect users in any way - but I have been the lucky recipient of 35,000+ e-mails from the auction software. So this has slowed me down somewhat! I will invoice all auction winners via e-mail ASAP and launch new auctions after that has been completed. Thanks for your patience as always. FIREWORKS #45 OUT NOW: The brand new issue of Fireworks is yet another 96 page stunning full colour glossy magazine covering the best in Classic Rock, AOR, Melodic Rock, Progressive Rock and Glam. Issue 45 features: • 3 page Whitesnake cover story • Exclusive interview with Francis Rossi • Duff McKagan's Loaded • Within Temptation • Thunder • Brian Robertson • New York Dolls • Hinder • Joe Lynn Turner • Bonfire • Kingdom Come • King Kobra • Mr Mister... and more - 32 interviews in total! Plus in depth reviews, and FREE 17 track cover CD featuring Brand New Tracks from Whitesnake, Bonfire, Eden's Curse, The Poodles, U.D.O. and more! ONLY £4.99! Now available at over 400 participating WH Smith, McColls and Martins Shops! Can't find a copy? For a full list of participating UK stores check the store-finder at Rocktopia.net. Alternatively, purchase direct from Rocktopia in the shop (free registration required) or in the new Fireworks Magazine Mini Shop (no registration required). Subscriptions available there also. Copies/subscriptions can be ordered direct by emailing fireworks.mag@ntlworld.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it, paying via Paypal. Send £6 (Inc P&P for UK), £7.50 (Europe), £9.50 (USA/Rest of World) Digial Release Of Issue 44 And 45 will be right here at MelodicRock.com next week. AhORa Rock: Podcast #8 Now Online - The latest podcast from your delightful hostess Pilar Sanchez is now online at www.rocktopia.net. This latest 70 minute programme (available for streaming or download) features the best recent and upcoming melodic rock releases including two new Def Leppard songs, Roxette, King Kobra, Reckless Love, Dynazty, Within Temptation, Williams-Friestedt, Shadowman, VEGA and MORE!! Check it out now absolutely FREE!! Firefest Friday Venue Change - Friday night Firefest has changed from the previously announced Trent University to the MAIN stage at Rock City. All tickets still state Trent University, but these will be valid for the new location. I think everyone will agree the big stage is the best place to see Jimi Jamison, Terry Brock, Houston and Serpentine! DRUMMER ANDY PARKER AND GUITARIST VINNIE MOORE COMMENT ON THE UPCOMING SHOWS: UFO's 2011 North American tour with special guests Mindflow will kick off this Thursday May 5tat The Crazy Donkey in Farmingdale, NY. The band will be touring North America in support of their greatest hits collection entitled "Best of a Decade" which is out now on SPV/Steamhammer. UFO is also in the process of working on a new studio album scheduled for release this fall. The following are a list of all confirmed dates as of now: 5/5: Farmingdale, NY @ The Crazy Donkey 5/6: Poughkeepsie,NY @ The Chance 5/7: West Springfield, VA @ Jaxx 5/9: Pittsburgh, PA @ The Altar 5/10: New Hope, PA @ Havana 5/11: Baltimore, MD @ Bourbon Street 5/13: New York, NY @ B.B. Kings 5/14: Foxboro (Boston), MA @ The Showcase Live 5/15: Londonderry,NH @ Tupelo Music Hall - SOLD OUT 5/17: Dayton, OH @ McGuffys House of Rock 5/18: Milwaukee, WI @ Shank Hall 5/20: Chicago, IL @ House Of Blues 5/21: Chicago/St. Charles, IL @ The Arcada Theatre 5/22: Akron, OH @ The Tangier 9/15: Santa Rosa, CA @ Last Day Saloon 9/16: Sacramento/Orangevale, CA @ Boardwalk 9/17: Santa Clara, CA @ Avalon 9/23: Las Vegas, NV @ Boulder Station Casino 9/24: Los Angeles, CA @ The Key Club Drummer Andy Parker commented on the upcoming dates: "I can't wait to get back on the road again, before my wife finds me something else to do. It's been two years since we toured the U.S. so I am really looking forward to the upcoming shows. Where will we see you?" Guitarist Vinnie Moore chimed in: "I am looking forward to the may USA tour. We haven't played any shows since December and i have some pent up energy that needs to be released before I go mental. Also, it's been a while since we played America and I am excited that we will be hitting some of our favorite places like Chicago, NY...etc. I can't wait to see all of our fuckin' awesome fans again." 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. For more info visit: www.ufo-music.info / www.spv.de. FRAMPTON COMES ALIVE AGAIN: Peter Frampton will tour the UK this November in celebration of the 35th Anniversary of his multi-platinum-selling live album Frampton Comes Alive!. Tickets for the highly anticipated UK tour, which will see the album performed in its entirety, go on sale Thursday May 5th at 10am. National Ticket Hotline: 08700 603 777. Book online: www.seetickets.com. Dates include Manchester Bridgewater Hall (Friday 11th November), Cambridge Corn Exchange (Saturday 12th November), London Hammersmith Apollo (Sunday 13th November), Birmingham Symphony Hall (Tuesday 15th November) and Glasgow Royal Concert Hall (Wednesday 16th November). The three-hour show will feature a complete performance of Frampton Comes Alive!, including the hit singles 'Baby, I Love Your Way', 'Do You Feel Like We Do' and 'Show Me The Way', along with highlights from Frampton's extensive album catalogue. Originally released in January 1976, 'Frampton Comes Alive!' is one of the best-selling live albums in chart history. It spent a total of 10 weeks at the top of the American Billboard 200 and sold in excess of 6 million copies. Click here for the full official announcement and to download high res photos ­ www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/meanfiddler/PeterFrampton.htm. DON'T STOP BELIEVIN' – THE UNTOLD STORY OF JOURNEY BY NEIL DANIELS OUT NOW: The First Ever Complete Biography Of Journey - Journey are one of the most successful American melodic rock bands in history with record sales of over 75 million. The recent phenomenal success of 'Don't Stop Believin'' – the most downloaded song of all time – has given Journey a new lease of life and as such they have undergone a massive rise in popularity. For the first time ever, their entire history is explored in depth in this definitive biography which charts the many highs and many lows of one of America's most beloved rock bands. 'Don't Stop Believin'' is not only Journey's signature song but also a motto they have lived by which has taken them through some difficult times. The previously untold story begins in 1973 when the band was hastily assembled in San Francisco, California and takes the reader on a journey through the early jazz fusion years, the dramatic change in sound to AOR/melodic rock, the numerous line-up changes, the hiring and firing of their first frontman Robert Flesichman and of course, the enormous success they would achieve with Steve Perry as well as those years following Perry's first (and second) departure. The topsy-turvy life of the band thereafter with three more singers is also explored in detail. Journey's renewed popularity with the Philpino singer Arnel Pineda and the success of the hit TV show Glee has meant that Journey's music is played in millions of households all around the world. The Untold Story Of Journey - Journey are now at the top of their game and receiving more acclaim and exposure since their early eighties peak years with the iconic multi-million selling Escape and Frontiers albums. Using original interviews and a wealth of research, The Untold Story Of Journey follows their career as they formed; matured and flourished and succeeded and failed. It is a story filled with heartache, bitterness and behind the scenes squabbles but also creativity, dedication, passion and drive. Journey gave the world songs such popular songs as 'Wheel In The Sky,' 'Ask The Lonely,' 'Any Way You Want It' and of course, 'Don't Stop Believin'' and quite literally invented the term 'stadium rock.' Buy the book at Amazon: www.amazon.co.uk/Dont-Stop-Believin-Untold-Journey/dp/1849386579/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297423879&sr=1-1. Website: www.neildaniels.com/Index.html / Blog: neildanielsbooks.wordpress.com.

 

 

Friday, May 06, 2011

Andreas Novak - Novakation (MRR007) Track Listing and Soundbytes: 01 - Highway To Anywhere 02 - I Must Be Mad 03 - Days Of Our Lives 04 - Dare To Believe 05 - Keep This Flame 06 - No Vacation 07 - Part Of Your Plan 08 - A New Hope 09 - Light Years 10 - Mr. Cred 11 - Yesterday's Rain 12 - 2009 Debut solo album from Mind's Eye/Novak vocalist, now fronting House Of Shakira! Pre-Sales Available Now $15 + $5 shipping ($4 if buying both CDs) June 6 Advance Shipping for pre-orders June 20 OFFICIAL RELEASE.   Infinity - Infinity (MRR006) Track Listing and Soundbytes: 01 - I'm On The Edge 02 - Secrets 03 - She's On Fire 04 - Christine 05 - Let It Go 06 - Liar 07 - Promise 08 - Over You 09 - Running Classic lost album from 1986, released for the first time on any format! Featuring Mitch Malloy, David Rosenthal and Reb Beach! Pre-Sales Available Now $15 + $5 shipping ($4 if buying both CDs) June 6 Advance Shipping for pre-orders June 20 OFFICIAL RELEASE.   HARD BACK ON AN EVEN KEEL: From the clubs of obscurity to the high flying stadiums on tour with the mighty Kiss, a debut album mixed by the respected Beau Hill followed by a well received second album 'Time Is Waiting For No One'. This Hungarian band in their short time have done it all, and they are going to do it again. On March 18th 2011 HARD are ready to burn some serious rubber with their brand new heavy 10 track mean machine Even Keel. A roller coast ride of heavy rockin' hooks cooked up with sweat and sinew. HARD are back and they are inviting you along for the ride. Written, recorded and mixed between Autumn 2010 and Spring 2011, the new songs demonstrate the band's progression in terms of playing and song writing whilst refining a wide range of different musical influences.'Even Keel' is front man Björn Lodin's second album with the band, and here Lodin shines! The chemistry between Lodin and the lads is apparent right throughout the album. Joining the band for the first time is feisty guitar man Zsolt Vámos, who has also lent his hand in the song-writing department. HARD let it soar with no rules heavy rock laid out. 'Even Keel' is the sound of a tightly tuned unit floored to max. This album totally rocks! 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, "Traveler", was released worldwide in March 2008. The band has appeared in the biggest international hard rock & heavy metal magazines, such as Metal Hammer, Burrn!, Fireworks, Hardline, Powerplay etc. In August 2009, the band announced that they have joined forces with acclaimed Swedish vocalist/guitarist/producer Björn Lodin (Baltimoore). The band released a new album entitled 'Time Is Waiting For No One', in Feb 2010 and are now ready with yet another smashing release; 'Even Keel' - released on BLP Music, March 2011. Band Line Up: Björn Lodin - Vocals, Guitar; Zsolt Borbély - Drums; Gabor Mirkovics - Bass; Zsolt Vámos - Guitar. Tracklisting: 1- Truth Or Dare 2- Bitten By You 3- Pretty Little Liar 4- Promises 5- I Wanna Rock You 6- Speeding Into Slow 7- Somewhere 8- Keep Out 9- Scream Out To Be Heard 10- In Your Arms. New video Scream Out To Be Heard: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoyJI1cxzfk.   MORE GREATEST HITS FROM MOLLY HATCHET: New Greatest Hits album will be released in May / June 2011 - contains one previously unreleased track... Southern Rock is now considered an American icon in music history. Not only has it resonated in the southern part of the United States, but it has grown to touch the lives of people across the world through its songs and recorded albums, on concert stages, and throughout an international fan correspondence database. When the first album "Molly Hatchet" was released in 1978, no one knew that over 30 years later Molly Hatchet would still be recording and performing worldwide to some of the most loyal fans in the music community. As history has now shown, through all the generations of the band…Molly Hatchet is still delivering its own brand of southern heritage, year after year. This Greatest Hits II Collection is Molly Hatchet`s gift to the fans in appreciation of their dedication and support for over 3 decades. The first CD contains the best studio recordings from the last 15 years compiled by Bobby Ingram himself. The second CD is filled with the best live recordings of Molly Hatchet classics plus one previously unreleased track named "Sacred Ground". On top the booklet contains new photos and new liner notes by Bobby Ingram and this double CD will be sold for the price of one. There`s only one more to say which is the message of the band to the world: The South Has Risen Again! Tracklisting: CD 1 01. Son Of The South 04:44 02. Heart Of The USA 04:00 03. Tatanka 05:01 04. Fall Of The Peacemakers 06:55 05. American Pride 04:02 06. Devil`s Canyon 06:18 07. World Of Trouble 05:33 08. Down From The Mountain 04:38 09. Gonna Live `til I Die 08:30 10. Safe In My Skin 04:33 11. Rainbow Bridge 06:18 12. Cornbread Mafia 03:27 13. Mississipi Moon Dog 03:47 14. The Journey 07:20. CD 2 01. Bounty Hunter (live) 03:31 02. Gator County (live) 07:08 03. Edge Of Sundown (live) 6:58 04. Whiskey Man (live) 03:45 05. Beatin' The Odds (live) 03:35 06. Dreams I´ll Never See (live) 08:02 07. The Creeper (live) 04:55 08. Flirtin' With Disaster (live) 06:22 09. Sacred Ground 07:07 - Previously unreleased. "Greatest Hits II" will be released in Germany on May 20th, in Europe on May 23rd and in the USA/Canada on June 14th through SPV / Steamhammer. Tour dates Europe: 09.06. FI-Helsinki – Club Dom 10.06. FI-Lahti – Ace Corner 11.06. SE-Sölvesborg – Sweden Rock Festival 30.07. D-Seebronn – Rock Of Ages Festival 05.08. F-Clerrmont Ferrand - Free Wheels Festival For more tourdates please visit the band`s homepage at: www.mollyhatchet.com / www.spv.de.   MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Runaway Stray - Demos (UK 89)(4 Tracks) - Peter Yttergren - Demo (Sweden)(13 Tracks) - Maeday (Swedish AOR - 9 Tracks) Plus the following new videos have been added: Danger Avenue - Bigger Than All of Us and West Coast Angel; Bad Sister - Surrender; Billion Dollar Babies - Restless Minds; Androids - Let It All Out; Bombay - Rumble Tonight. Join MRX now.

 

 

Thursday, May 05, 2011

DEF LEPPARD LANDS EUROPEAN DEAL WITH FRONTIERS RECORDS: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of Def Leppard for the release of the upcoming live album Mirror Ball on June 17 in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, June 20 in the rest of Europe and June 23 in France. Mirror Ball is Def Leppard's first ever live album. The group's spectacular live shows, filled with powerful melodic rock anthems, have become synonymous with their name, leading Def Leppard to be heralded as an institution in both the music and touring industry. It makes perfect sense that the band would finally release a live album, Mirror Ball, featuring all of the triumphant hits that continue to make Def Leppard one of the most admired rock bands in the world. Mirror Ball was recorded across the world over the course of many of the band's sold-out dates and features all of the classic songs that have made Def Leppard one of the most respected and beloved power rock bands in the world. The album captures the group's legendary concert experience at its thunderous best, bringing together live versions of classic Leppard hits such as "Pour Some Sugar On Me," "Rock Of Ages," "Foolin'," "Hysteria," "Photograph" and an incredible rendition of "Bringing On The Heartbreak." With their creative juices at full flow, the band has also added three new studio tracks: "Undefeated," "It's All About Believin'" and "Kings Of The World," that are undeniably Def Leppard and take their place with ease within this classic setlist. Joe Elliott says, "I'm really happy that we've been able to include three brand new songs on the album, all VERY different from each other & a teaser of what our next studio album will be like. We could have waited until next year, but to be quite honest, we're so excited with the new songs we want people to hear them now!" Rick Savage adds, "The 3 new songs on this release are what Def Leppard is and has always has been about. These songs are not just thrown in to have something not heard before. Personally, I think it's THE best work we have put together in years. From the "Sugar" quality of "Undefeated" to the Hysteria/Animal melodic rock of "It's all about Believing," to the ambitious and over the top epic, "Kings of the world. "The message is in the titles. If ever you needed reminding, the heartbeat of Leppard is as strong as ever." Also included will be a 50 mins. bonus DVD that contains energetic live performances and intimate backstage footage of the band captured on the road.  Mirror Ball follows the band's 2008 studio release, Songs From The Sparkle Lounge, which debuted at #5 on the Billboard Top 200, marking the group's highest chart position in the USA since 1992's Adrenalize. With more than 65 million albums sold worldwide and two prestigious Diamond Awards (Def Leppard are one of only five rock bands to have two consecutive 10 million plus selling albums in the U.S. - the others are The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and Van Halen) to their credit, Def Leppard - Joe Elliott (vocals), Phil Collen (guitar), Rick "Sav" Savage (bass), Vivian Campbell (guitar) and Rick Allen (drums) - continue to be one of the most important forces in rock music. Over the course of their career, the band has produced a series of classic ground breaking albums that set the bar for generations of music fans and artists alike. The group's spectacular live shows, filled with powerful melodic rock anthems, continue to sell out venues worldwide. Their epic live show and arsenal of hits have become synonymous with their name, leading Def Leppard to be heralded as an institution in both the music and touring industry. Mirror Ball tracklisting includes: CD1: Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop); Rocket; Animal; C'mon C'mon; Make Love Like a Man; Too Late for Love; Foolin'; Nine Lives; Love Bites; Rock On. CD2; Two Steps Behind; Bringin' On the Heartbreak; Switch 625; Hysteria; Armageddon It; Photograph; Pour Some Sugar on Me; Rock Of Ages; Let's Get Rocked; Action; Bad Actress; Undefeated*; Kings of the World*; It's All About Believin'*. * New studio tracks. DVD includes live performances of: Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop); Armageddon It; Pour Some Sugar On Me; Hysteria. Music videos: Nine Lives; C'Mon C'Mon. The new single "Undefeated" can be streamed on www.defleppard.com and on Frontiers Records webradio: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Def Leppard Tour Dates In Europe Tues 7th June 2011 - The Odyssey Arena, Belfast, N. Ireland Wed 8th June 2011 - The O2, Dublin, Eire Fri 10th June 2011 - Download Festival, UK WebLinks: www.defleppard.com /www.frontiers.it.   xx BRAND NEW WARRANT VIDEO AND EPK REVEALED: The first single from Warrant's forthcoming album Rockaholic and its companion video have just been revealed. "Life's A Song" will impact at Rock radio this month and finds Warrant returning to their trademark melodically-infused hard rock sound. The video for "Life's A Song" takes a look at the bands long and winding road in the world of music and can be viewed here. Warrant has also just released an EPK chronicling the making of Rockaholic; it can be viewed below. Rockaholic is due out on May 13th n Europe and May 17th in North America via Frontiers Records. At the helm is mega-producer Keith Olsen (Ozzy Osbourne, Whitesnake, Scorpions) and the album is mixed by Pat Regan (Kiss, Deep Purple, Ted Nugent). Warrant is: Joey Allen (guitar), Jerry Dixon (bass), Robert Mason (vocals), Steven Sweet (drums) and Erik Turner (guitar). With 8 million records sold worldwide, two Top Ten Billboard albums, five Top 40 Billboard hit singles and five #1 MTV videos, Warrant is one of the most popular and successful rock bands to hail out of the Los Angeles rock scene. "Rockaholic" is sure to capture the band another strip in rock history. Warrant will play on select tour dates around the world; please see below for the itinerary. WebLink: www.warrantrocks.com / www.frontiers.it.   NEW TESLA ON THE WAY: Tesla's Brian Wheat, Frank Hannon, and Jeff Keith have reviewed the tracks from the last recording sessions with former guitarist Tommy Skeoch from the 2005 "Acoustic Jam" tour, as well as the recently recorded tracks featuring the new Tesla song "Second Street" to be released this year. Tesla's Record Company has signed a deal with EONE distribution to release this new CD…tentatively titled Twisted Wires (The Acoustic Sessions). Troy Luccketta, will be joining Frank and Brian at Sonic Ranch studios where the Real To Reel sessions were recorded and they will collectively wrap up the recording and mixing of "Twisted Wires" simultaneously, utilizing the studio's amazing analogue equipment to record and mix down the tracks. The album will consist of 6 tracks recorded back in 2005 at Brian's J Street Studio (luckily these tracks survived the infamous fire!) and 6 newly recorded tracks recorded at Frank Hannon's studio including acoustic remakes of songs from "Bust a Nut" and a brand new song "Second Street". During all of this Jeff Keith and his wife will be welcoming the arrival of their baby boy due at the end of February! After all this mayhem is finished...Tesla will be writing a follow up studio album of all new material with guitarist Dave Rude starting in March 2011 and performing select dates across the USA. In the meantime Dave Rude Band, SoulMotor, and FHB will be finishing up some tour dates supporting their solo efforts... Stay Tuned for more! WHO CARES - OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE: Who Cares ­ the renewed musical union between legendary Deep Purple singer Ian Gillan and none other than Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi: the undisputed master of heavy guitar riffs ­ will release its debut digital single will be release May 6th via Eagle Rock Entertainment. The physical CD/DVD single will be made available in Europe on May 24 through earMUSIC and June 27th in North America via Eagle Rock Entertainment. The single features two brand new studio tracks "Out Of My Mind" and "Holy Water", which will raise funds for the rebuilding of a music school in Gyumri, Armenia. The 2 Song - CD single will also contain the video clip of "Out Of My Mind" and a 40-minute documentary that shows Gillan's and Iommi's involvement with the Armenia cause over the years. Speaking to Armenia's Mediamax news agency, Gillan was asked what the experience of working with Iommi again was like compared to their previous collaboration. "It was great to work with Tony again," Gillan replied. "He is very easy to write with and as a singer I know exactly where he's going. It wasn't dramatic, just friendly and professional." He added, "We hope to do it again sometime in the not-too-distant future. It wasn't like the last experience with Black Sabbath; that was a band and an album ­ totally different." When asked how the inspiration for the song "Out Of My Mind" came out right after he visiting Armenia in October 2009, Ian said, "Well, normally... people like us who work with bands write the bits that we play. In this case, with 'Out of My Mind', Tony presented the entire musical idea and I wrote what I sing over the top, or along with it, if you prefer. The second track of the Who Cares single, 'Holy Water', was a bit different as I wrote that with Steve Morse (Deep Purple) and Tony was gracious enough to play guitar on it." Both Gillan and Iommi have spent a lot of time in Armenia, fallen in love with the country and the people and have dedicated a lot of work to a nation still shocked after the earthquake that struck Armenia on December 7, 1988. The collaboration of Gillan and Iommi, who have worked together before on the Sabbath album "Born Again", is in itself an incredible news for all rock and metal fans and will be the best of surprises to get to know who is completing the band: None other than Jon Lord ("Mr. Hammond", partner with Gillan on all the Deep Purple classics), Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain, ex-Metallica bassist Jason Newsted and HIM guitarist player Mikko "Linde" Lindström are also featured on the two new songs. Commented Gillan: "The idea came as Tony and I flew back from Yerevan together after being inspired by the enthusiasm of everyone there to get this thing done. It was brilliant working with Tony again after all these years; he makes life easy for a singer. The other guys need no introduction, do they?!" Added Iommi: "Some twenty years ago when the call came, I thought, well at least I've helped, but it was going to Armenia and seeing the actual devastation caused by the earthquake that really made me realize that funds were still needed. Despite all the money that was raised last time, here was a music school doing their best, forgotten, in basic tin sheds. After the warmth and honor bestowed upon us during our visit, we just had to help make a difference and get the school rebuilt. And what better way than to hook up with some of rock's greatest players and my old mate Ian, both an honor and a pleasure." "Out Of My Mind" recording lineup: * Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath) - Guitar, * Ian Gillan (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath) - Vocals, * Jason Newsted (Metallica, Voivod, Flotsam And Jetsam) - Bass, * Nicko Mcbrain (Iron Maiden) - Drums, * Jon Lord (Deep Purple) - Keyboards, * Mikko "Linde" Lindström (HIM) - Guitar. "Holy Water" recording lineup: * Ian Gillan (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath) - Vocals, * Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath) - Guitar, * Steve Morris - Guitar, * Michael Lee Jackson - Guitar, * Randy Clarke - Drums, * Rodney Appleby - Bass, * Jesse O'Brien - Hammond Organ, * Arshak Sahakyan - Duduk Solo, * Ara Gevorgyan - Underlying Duduk Intro Music And Keys. Out Of My Mind (Official Music Video) www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJFL-scaPCI / Who Cares (EPK Video) vimeo.com/23277058.   TWISTED SISTER INVITES YOU UNDER THE BLADE: New York, NY (May 4, 2011)—Eagle Rock Entertainment will release the landmark metal debut of 1982, Under The Blade by Twisted Sister, on May 31. The CD—originally produced by Pete Way of UFO—will also contain four tracks from their 1982 Ruff Cuts EP (never before on CD) as well as Shoot ˜Em Down, an ˜82 live track from England's prestigious Reading Festival. The lavish package features the original Under The Blade cover, which has not appeared on any domestic versions of the album until now, and reflects the original Secret Records track list and remastered audio mix. The DVD contains the entire previously-unreleased Reading concert. Vocalist Dee Snider, guitarists Jay Jay French and Eddie Ojeda, bassist Mark Mendoza and drummer A.J. Pero gave the crowd something they had not exactly ever seen before. It was, for all intents and purposes, a coming-out affair for this great band. They play as if their life depends upon it. They play as if they have something to prove. And they did. They're young, hungry, determined and wind up headbanging with a desperate ferocity usually reserved for those kinds of life-altering performances that make a band. This is one of those performances. The set concludes with a show-stopping version of It's Only Rock N Roll as the band jams out with Pete Way and Motorhead's Fast Eddie Clarke and Lemmy! The DVD also includes 40 minutes of newly shot interviews with the band about the recording of Under The Blade and the Reading Festival. French joined the band Silver Star, a New Jersey based 'Glitter Band" in December 1972. The band, whose original purpose was to be the New Jersey version of the New York Dolls, changed their name to Twisted Sister on Valentine's Day 1973. The band however continually changed line-ups and didn't take off until Snider joined in 1976. The lineup didn't fully coalesce until 1982 with the final addition of drummer AJ Pero. Under The Blade first came out on an independent UK based label called Secret Records, but really gained momentum when Atlantic Records released a different mix of the album nationally in 1985 while taking advantage of the bands newly minted stardom. Their meteoric ascent came in tandem with the simultaneous rise of MTV. This version you now have in your hands is the most requested and sought after. The new digital re-mastered original mix of Under the Blade.   WARRANT VOCALIST ROBERT MASON TO DROP IN ON ALL HAIL HAIR FRIDAY NIGHT: This Friday night (5/6) at 8:30PM EST, All Hail Hair will welcome Robert Mason, the lead vocalist of Warrant! Hosted by Bob Carroll and Francis, the guys will speak to Mason about the bands soon to be released album, Rockoholic on Frontiers Records. They will also play two new songs off of the album, Life's a Song and Sex Ain't Love. The show always welcomes listener participation, so call in at (347) 202-0832. Warrant first broke onto the music scene with the 1989 album Dirty, Rotten, Filthy, Stinking Rich an album that spawned three hits, Down Boys, Sometimes She Cries and the 80s top power ballad Heaven. They followed that album up with another strongly performing album, Cherry Pie which contained the title track, their biggest selling hit. Also included on that album were the hits I Saw Red and Bob's favorite Warrant song Uncle Tom's Cabin. The early 90s brought a change to the music scene and with it, the music of bands like Warrant was affected, yet the band still produced another incredible effort in the 1992 release Dog Eat Dog. Two more albums were recorded after this, 1995's Ultraphonic and 1996's Belly To Belly before the band splintered apart. The band re-grouped in 2000 and released the album Under the Influence in 2001. That would be the last album with vocalist Jani Lane as he left in 2004 to pursue solo projects. Lane was replaced by Jamie St. James, lead vocalist of the much underrated Black N Blue, from 2004-2008, releasing Born Again. In 2008 Warrant re-grouped the line-up from its most popular days, to include Jani Lane and set out on tour. That reunion was not to last long as Lane once again departed from Warrant. The band went on a search for a new vocalist and decided on former Lynch Mob front man Robert Mason to lead Warrant into 2009 and beyond. Sounding as strong as ever, the band is currently touring and on May 17th, will release its first album, Rockoholic, since 2006's Born Again. All Hail Hair is broadcast every Friday night at 8 PM EST on the Fightin' Words Radio Network and is the networks highest rated show. To take part in the show, dial (347) 202-0832. To listen in to the show live and in archive, click here: www.blogtalkradio.com/fightinwordsradio/2011/05/07/all-hail-hair--robert-mason-of-warrant.

 

 

Wednesday, May 04, 2011

It has been a while between drinks for MelodicRock Records, but that doesn't mean nothing has been going on behind the scenes. It may be an unintended late start to the 2011 year, but there are some great new releases on the near horizon. Full details and some long awaited soundbytes are due online in a couple of days. But here is the information you have been waiting for. INFINITY - Infinity (MRR006) and ANDREAS NOVAK - Novakation (MRR007) May 6 Pre-Sales Available. June 6 Advance Shipping for pre-orders. June 20 OFFICIAL RELEASE.   xx RICK SPRINGFIELD TRIBUTE - Working Class Dogs (MRR008) and TAXXI Traxx (MRR009) - June 20 Pre-Sales Available. July 11 Pre-Sales Advance Shipping. July 25 OFFICIAL RELEASE.   xx RIVERDOGS - World Gone Mad (MRR010) July 25 Pre-Sales Available. August 8 Pre-Sales Advance Shipping. August 22 OFFICIAL RELEASE.   MelodicRock Compilation – The Next Chapter (MRCD8) May 20 Pre-Sales Available w/Bonus Tracks. June 20 Pre-Sales Advance Shipping. July 4 OFFICIAL RELEASE. Cover to be fully revealed soon...   MELODIC ROCK AUCTION ISSUES: You might have realized no further MR Mega-Auction items have been added to the site. It's always something... It appears there is a bug in the software that sends the system haywire every time an auction finishes. This does not affect users in any way - but I have been the lucky recipient of 35,000+ e-mails from the auction software. So this has slowed me down somewhat! I will invoice all auction winners via e-mail ASAP and launch new auctions after that has been completed. Thanks for your patience as always. FIREWORKS #45 OUT NOW: The brand new issue of Fireworks is yet another 96 page stunning full colour glossy magazine covering the best in Classic Rock, AOR, Melodic Rock, Progressive Rock and Glam. Issue 45 features: • 3 page Whitesnake cover story • Exclusive interview with Francis Rossi • Duff McKagan's Loaded • Within Temptation • Thunder • Brian Robertson • New York Dolls • Hinder • Joe Lynn Turner • Bonfire • Kingdom Come • King Kobra • Mr Mister... and more - 32 interviews in total! Plus in depth reviews, and FREE 17 track cover CD featuring Brand New Tracks from Whitesnake, Bonfire, Eden's Curse, The Poodles, U.D.O. and more! ONLY £4.99! Now available at over 400 participating WH Smith, McColls and Martins Shops! Can't find a copy? For a full list of participating UK stores check the store-finder at Rocktopia.net. Alternatively, purchase direct from Rocktopia in the shop (free registration required) or in the new Fireworks Magazine Mini Shop (no registration required). Subscriptions available there also. Copies/subscriptions can be ordered direct by emailing fireworks.mag@ntlworld.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it, paying via Paypal. Send £6 (Inc P&P for UK), £7.50 (Europe), £9.50 (USA/Rest of World) Digial Release Of Issue 44 And 45 will be right here at MelodicRock.com next week. AhORa Rock: Podcast #8 Now Online - The latest podcast from your delightful hostess Pilar Sanchez is now online at www.rocktopia.net. This latest 70 minute programme (available for streaming or download) features the best recent and upcoming melodic rock releases including two new Def Leppard songs, Roxette, King Kobra, Reckless Love, Dynazty, Within Temptation, Williams-Friestedt, Shadowman, VEGA and MORE!! Check it out now absolutely FREE!! Firefest Friday Venue Change - Friday night Firefest has changed from the previously announced Trent University to the MAIN stage at Rock City. All tickets still state Trent University, but these will be valid for the new location. I think everyone will agree the big stage is the best place to see Jimi Jamison, Terry Brock, Houston and Serpentine! DRUMMER ANDY PARKER AND GUITARIST VINNIE MOORE COMMENT ON THE UPCOMING SHOWS: UFO's 2011 North American tour with special guests Mindflow will kick off this Thursday May 5tat The Crazy Donkey in Farmingdale, NY. The band will be touring North America in support of their greatest hits collection entitled "Best of a Decade" which is out now on SPV/Steamhammer. UFO is also in the process of working on a new studio album scheduled for release this fall. The following are a list of all confirmed dates as of now: 5/5: Farmingdale, NY @ The Crazy Donkey 5/6: Poughkeepsie,NY @ The Chance 5/7: West Springfield, VA @ Jaxx 5/9: Pittsburgh, PA @ The Altar 5/10: New Hope, PA @ Havana 5/11: Baltimore, MD @ Bourbon Street 5/13: New York, NY @ B.B. Kings 5/14: Foxboro (Boston), MA @ The Showcase Live 5/15: Londonderry,NH @ Tupelo Music Hall - SOLD OUT 5/17: Dayton, OH @ McGuffys House of Rock 5/18: Milwaukee, WI @ Shank Hall 5/20: Chicago, IL @ House Of Blues 5/21: Chicago/St. Charles, IL @ The Arcada Theatre 5/22: Akron, OH @ The Tangier 9/15: Santa Rosa, CA @ Last Day Saloon 9/16: Sacramento/Orangevale, CA @ Boardwalk 9/17: Santa Clara, CA @ Avalon 9/23: Las Vegas, NV @ Boulder Station Casino 9/24: Los Angeles, CA @ The Key Club Drummer Andy Parker commented on the upcoming dates: "I can't wait to get back on the road again, before my wife finds me something else to do. It's been two years since we toured the U.S. so I am really looking forward to the upcoming shows. Where will we see you?" Guitarist Vinnie Moore chimed in: "I am looking forward to the may USA tour. We haven't played any shows since December and i have some pent up energy that needs to be released before I go mental. Also, it's been a while since we played America and I am excited that we will be hitting some of our favorite places like Chicago, NY...etc. I can't wait to see all of our fuckin' awesome fans again." 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. For more info visit: www.ufo-music.info / www.spv.de. FRAMPTON COMES ALIVE AGAIN: Peter Frampton will tour the UK this November in celebration of the 35th Anniversary of his multi-platinum-selling live album Frampton Comes Alive!. Tickets for the highly anticipated UK tour, which will see the album performed in its entirety, go on sale Thursday May 5th at 10am. National Ticket Hotline: 08700 603 777. Book online: www.seetickets.com. Dates include Manchester Bridgewater Hall (Friday 11th November), Cambridge Corn Exchange (Saturday 12th November), London Hammersmith Apollo (Sunday 13th November), Birmingham Symphony Hall (Tuesday 15th November) and Glasgow Royal Concert Hall (Wednesday 16th November). The three-hour show will feature a complete performance of Frampton Comes Alive!, including the hit singles 'Baby, I Love Your Way', 'Do You Feel Like We Do' and 'Show Me The Way', along with highlights from Frampton's extensive album catalogue. Originally released in January 1976, 'Frampton Comes Alive!' is one of the best-selling live albums in chart history. It spent a total of 10 weeks at the top of the American Billboard 200 and sold in excess of 6 million copies. Click here for the full official announcement and to download high res photos ­ www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/meanfiddler/PeterFrampton.htm. DON'T STOP BELIEVIN' – THE UNTOLD STORY OF JOURNEY BY NEIL DANIELS OUT NOW: The First Ever Complete Biography Of Journey - Journey are one of the most successful American melodic rock bands in history with record sales of over 75 million. The recent phenomenal success of 'Don't Stop Believin'' – the most downloaded song of all time – has given Journey a new lease of life and as such they have undergone a massive rise in popularity. For the first time ever, their entire history is explored in depth in this definitive biography which charts the many highs and many lows of one of America's most beloved rock bands. 'Don't Stop Believin'' is not only Journey's signature song but also a motto they have lived by which has taken them through some difficult times. The previously untold story begins in 1973 when the band was hastily assembled in San Francisco, California and takes the reader on a journey through the early jazz fusion years, the dramatic change in sound to AOR/melodic rock, the numerous line-up changes, the hiring and firing of their first frontman Robert Flesichman and of course, the enormous success they would achieve with Steve Perry as well as those years following Perry's first (and second) departure. The topsy-turvy life of the band thereafter with three more singers is also explored in detail. Journey's renewed popularity with the Philpino singer Arnel Pineda and the success of the hit TV show Glee has meant that Journey's music is played in millions of households all around the world. The Untold Story Of Journey - Journey are now at the top of their game and receiving more acclaim and exposure since their early eighties peak years with the iconic multi-million selling Escape and Frontiers albums. Using original interviews and a wealth of research, The Untold Story Of Journey follows their career as they formed; matured and flourished and succeeded and failed. It is a story filled with heartache, bitterness and behind the scenes squabbles but also creativity, dedication, passion and drive. Journey gave the world songs such popular songs as 'Wheel In The Sky,' 'Ask The Lonely,' 'Any Way You Want It' and of course, 'Don't Stop Believin'' and quite literally invented the term 'stadium rock.' Buy the book at Amazon: www.amazon.co.uk/Dont-Stop-Believin-Untold-Journey/dp/1849386579/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297423879&sr=1-1. Website: www.neildaniels.com/Index.html / Blog: neildanielsbooks.wordpress.com.

 

 

Tuesday, May 03, 2011

DREAM THEATER ANNOUNCE MIKE MANGINI AS NEW DRUMMER: New York, NY: A little more than a month after drummer Mike Portnoy's sudden departure from Dream Theater, the band held three days of auditions in New York City. Over an incredibly productive three-day period, the band played, jammed and spoke candidly and at length with seven of the world's greatest drummers. The remaining members of the band got to know the candidates musically, personally and professionally and thus assessed the fit of each drummer's incredible chops with the band's trademark prog-rock sound. After intense consideration, the band has unanimously chosen drummer Mike Mangini (Extreme, Steve Vai, Annihilator) to fill the seat behind the kit which was left vacant by Portnoy's departure late last summer. Dream Theater began telling their intense tale on April 21 when the band took to its Facebook Page to give fans a glimpse into the audition process. A video tool that was powered by new technology prompted fans to 'like' the page in order to unlock exclusive content. Much to the joy of fans, a trailer for the 3-part documentary series on the audition process was then revealed. Those that 'liked' the page then received updates on when and where the actual documentary would be airing. The series, which is featured on Roadrunner Records' YouTube Channel, has received an overwhelmingly positive response from fans and critics alike and amassed over 1.5 million views in one week's time. Additionally, both Dream Theater and Mike Mangini were trending topics on Twitter this past Friday, behind only Royal Wedding-related topics. Keyboardist Jordan Rudess reflected on Mangini's audition saying, "From the first countoff to the very last note of the final song, every beat Mike played was not only in perfect time, but also executed with an undeniable sense of virtuosity and musicality." The band has always been extremely sensitive to the fact that this is not only a monumental decision in their own lives, but also a critical moment in the lives of fans around the world, and has treated their announcement of their new rhythm section anchor with incredible respect to the band's legacy. "The departure of our lifelong bandmate and friend was an unexpected and truly heartbreaking blow," said guitarist John Petrucci. "The fact that as a result of that event we'd be introduced to seven infinitely capable and uniquely talented drummers was heartening. But when we played with the infectiously positive powerhouse of a drummer that is Mike Mangini, we knew we had found a silver lining to what has been, by far, the most challenging episode in our musical lives." Bassist John Myung explained that "Mike Mangini is inspiring to us on many levels. His attitude and outlook are entirely positive. His total immersion into performing with us is undeniable, and during the audition, we all felt his strong musical and personal presence. At the same time, we also felt a real unity. He will open up our creative potential. It was destiny at work for us to have found the right person at the right time." Going into the auditions, singer James LaBrie had a strong vibe for Mangini's potential. "I had the privilege of working with Mike on three of my solo albums, so I knew he would be a huge contender. He is without a doubt one of the most intelligent, intuitive, interpretive and virtuosic musicians I have ever played with." Mangini is completely cognizant of the demanding rhythmic and artistic responsibilities he'll be expected to take on as the band's new timemaster, as well as how deeply the band's history and relationship runs with DT's passionate and dedicated followers. "I went to work diligently on the audition material far beyond just learning the songs," explained Mangini, who, upon taking up the mantle for DT, gives up a coveted faculty position at the Berklee College of Music. "I imagined myself onstage with them, giving the fans what I know Mike Portnoy – who is obviously a legend – always worked so hard to provide. For his sake, as well as for the fans and the band's, I fought hard to earn the privilege of carrying on the spirit of Dream Theater. At the same time, I wanted to honor Mike's incredible drumming and musical interpretations. This band has a phenomenal past. DT's fans are so passionate about DT's music. They deserve to hear the songs they know played as they love them. I'm responsible for that now." With the addition of Mangini to the band's lineup, Dream Theater moved forward into the studio to begin recording their third release for Roadrunner Records. Guitarist John Petrucci reprises his role as producer, and Paul Northfield (Rush, Queensryche, Porcupine Tree) assumes the same engineering position that he has had on Dream Theater's previous two Roadrunner releases. The band will kick off a world tour in July 2011. Mangini, for one, cannot wait to get on the road and show the Dream Theater fan base why he was the chosen one. "I am just busting at the seams on being the new drummer for Dream Theater," he said. "Digesting the incredibly challenging catalog, exploding with creative ideas, and anticipating what James, John, John and Jordan will come up with collectively and individually for new music and a fresh stage show is going to be really exciting and fun for me. I consider this opportunity the absolute pinnacle of my career. I can't even imagine what untapped and future musical genius is inside of these guys; I can't wait until we get into the studio together. Playing with these guys…it's the mountaintop. This is where I want to be." About Dream Theater: Progressive metal band Dream Theater formed in 1985 under the name Majesty by John Petrucci, John Myung and Mike Portnoy. Though a number of lineup changes followed, the three original members remained together along with James LaBrie and Jordan Rudess until September 8, 2010, when Mike Portnoy left the band. In October 2010, the band held auditions for a new drummer, and added Mike Mangini to its roster. Dream Theater's tenth studio album, Black Clouds & Silver Linings (Roadrunner Records), was released on June 23, 2009. It entered the U.S. Billboard 200 at #6 and Eurochart Hot 100 at #1, marking their highest entry on either chart. Black Clouds & Silver Linings - a highlight of their 25-year career - was praised by Mojo magazine's Paul Elliott: "…their lofty ideals remain intact. By modern criteria, Black Clouds & Silver Linings is as highbrow as The Mars Volta, as grandiose as Muse and as heavy as Metallica." The legendary progressive metal masters have sold in excess of 10,000,000 records and DVDs worldwide. The release of their eleventh studio album is expected in September 2011; Dream Theater will kick off a world tour in July, 2011.   ECLETIC MIXTURE SET TO STIR IT UP: Lemmy Kilmister (Motorhead), Slim Jim Phantom (The Stray Cats) and Danny B. Harvey (Rockats, 13 Cats, Lonesome Spurs), have teamed up in a high-energy, "take no prisoners" combo to remind the world how real rock 'n roll is supposed to f*ckin sound. HeadCat serves up a delicious melting pot with flavors of rockabilly, punk, blues and undeniable rock 'n roll! HeadCat was formed in 2000 after recording an Elvis Presley tribute special to which all band members contributed. Slim Jim Phantom (drums, percussion), was born in Brooklyn and listened to his parents' jazz records. At the age of ten he took up the drums although he always says that the drums chose him. He is an exceptional drummer who cemented his place among rock royalty long time ago and inspires and excites audiences worldwide. Danny B. Harvey (guitar, piano) is Texas born and also discovered his love for music very early. He started playing the guitar at the age of six and even got a full scholarship to study classical guitar. He developed a finger picking guitar style that's very unique and based on his idols Merle Travis and Chet Atkins but also a result of his classical-technique education. Lemmy Kilmister (vocals, bass, harmonica) was born and raised in England and started to play the guitar at the age of sixteen. With a laughing eye he always said that he only took the guitar to impress the girls. He is an autodidact and changed early to bass as he stated he wasn't a good guitar player. After founding Motorhead in 1975 he knows the ups and downs in the business and has reached the status of an Icon all over the world. The new HeadCat album Walk The Walk...Talk The Talk is due to be released July 5th, 2011 through Niji Entertainment Group, the record label Wendy Dio and her and late husband Ronnie James Dio formed before his untimely passing. Twelve fantastic songs for Walk The Walk, Talk The Talk were chosen easily. HeadCat prepare to take over the airwaves with their first single 'American Beat. ˜American Beat is a song written in the studio - Lemmy had the words and the rest came together very quickly. 'I Ain't Never' is one of the songs Lemmy really likes and Danny knew it - a real country, rockabilly number, full of love and ready to take you drifting away. 'Let It Rock' is one of their favorite Chuck Berry tunes - The Stones did it a lot in their live show in the 70's ­ HeadCat plays a different version. "Something Else" is a classic Eddie Cochran - Lemmy came on stage with the Stray Cats and jammed on it at a show in the 90's at Hammersmith Odeon so it came quite natural to take this on the record as well. 'Walk The Walk...Talk The Talk' track listing confirmed as follows: American Beat, Say Mama, I Ain't Never, Bad Boy, Shaking All Over, Let It Rock, Something Else, The Eagle Flies On Friday, Trying To Get To You, You Can't Do That, It'll Be Me, Crossroads. For more information, visit: www.facebook.com/nijientertainmentgroup / www.theheadcat.com. LOVERBOY'S MIKE RENO IS "FLYING HIGH' WITH VANCOUVER CANUCKS THEME SONG: LOS ANGELES, May 3, 2011—Loverboy lead singer Mike Reno is a Vancouver native and a huge fan of the city's NHL team the Canucks, who just finished taking an incredible seven-game playoff series against their rivals the Chicago Black Hawks to move onto the next round. After winning the first three games, the Canucks dropped the next three, only to capture the series with an exciting overtime victory on their home ice, inspiring Reno and his producer Ben Karlstrom on local station Classic Rock 101's top-rated morning program The Bro Jake Show, to come up with Flying High, a song they hope can carry the home team all the way to their first-ever Stanley Cup. "It's been a roller coaster of emotions for sure," acknowledged Reno, who says several members of Loverboy are huge ice hockey fans, including drummer Matt Frenette, a Montreal Canadian follower. Karlstrom came to the studio with the complete song he had written for the team, awaiting only Reno's vocals. "We found an empty room and turned it into an impromptu recording session," said Mike. The result is "Flying High." "Anything you can do to take it to another level during the playoffs," said Mike. "Hopefully, the song can follow the Canucks all the way to the championship." Reno premiered the song on air during Monday's broadcast after it was posted on the Vancouver Canucks website at video.canucks.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=1184&id=111642. The Canucks are now playing the Nashville Predators in the second round of the playoffs. For 30 years, Loverboy has been Canada's leading rock export, "Working for the Weekend" and delighting audiences around the world since forming in Calgary, Alberta, when vocalist Mike Reno was introduced to local guitar hot shot Paul Dean, both veterans of several bands on the scene. The group has recently been in Bryan Adams' Warehouse Studios in Vancouver recording several new songs with original engineer Bob Rock [Metallica, Aerosmith, The Cure, Bon Jovi], who worked under Bruce Fairbairn on Loverboy's very first album. The band cut two brand-new songs with Rock, "Heartbreaker" and "No Tomorrow," which could to be the prelude for a new album. Loverboy's pop culture credibility still remains intact. A recent 30 Rock episode featured Scott Adsit's amateur musician Pete Hornberger revealing he was actually Loverboy's original bassist, showing him inserted into vintage '80s footage of the band wailing away on "Working for the Weekend," which you can see at www.hulu.com/watch/217096/30-rock-its-never-too-late-for-now. The same song was also featured on a recent episode of Comedy Network's popular Regular Show, now posted on YouTube www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4AC0uvU0jQ. As for whether we might hear "Flying High" at an upcoming Loverboy show, Reno admits. "You never know. We might just play it in concert. Why not?" Especially if it helps the Vancouver Canucks hoist the Cup this spring. MELODIC BRIEFS: A cool new interview with Aerosmith's Steven Tyler can be viewed in 2 parts at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZySUvFH15o&NR=1. Royal Hunt's latest album – "X" – has been released on vinyl by Night of the Vinyl Dead company: limited edition (hand numbered copies), heavy vinyl and colour insert, gatefold. Order here: www.hho-records.de www.nuclearblast.de www.millenium-records.nl or contact the manufacturer: nightofthevinyldead.com. Buko.net just finished the interview with the original Black N Blue band when they were inducted into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame. There are also links to early Photos and photos of Tommy playing with the band again at the ceremony: tv.buko.net/?page_id=48. Gene Simmons: "The new KISS album will be like "Destroyer meets Sonic Boom meets Revenge."

 

 

Monday, May 02, 2011

FRONTIERS RECORDS HIT THE CHARTS: Frontiers Records is pleased to celebrate its first #1 in the Album charts ever with the new album from The Poodles Performocracy which hit # 1 in their home country in Sweden! In the same week Uriah Heep new album Into the Wild debuted in the European charts in the following countries: Germany # 32, Czech Rep # 28, Switzerland # 42, Sweden # 29, Finland # 31. In the same week Whitesnake's last studio album Forevermore keeps going strong with chart positions in the Top 50 in several European countries including Sweden, Finland, Germany and United Kingdom. Congratulations and best wishes to everyone! WebLink: www.frontiers.it. MIKE MANGINI TAKES ON DREAM THEATER: No surprise at all (but a good decision), with drummer Mike Mangini (Extreme, Steve Vai) announced as the new man for Dream Theater. The video announcement from the band is detailed below. "Finally, the wait is over. Find out who our new drummer will be in Episode 3 of Dream Theater: The Spirit Carries On right here. You've tuned in over the past week on Roadrunner's YouTube channel to watch the in depth search for our new drummer. In case you missed them, you can still watch Episode 1 and Episode 2 of the documentary to get the full story. PHIL X JOINS THE JBJ ROAD GANG: Bon Jovi played their first gig without Richie Sambora over the weekend at the New Orleans Jazz Fest, April 30. Jon Bon Jovi had one more surprise though. Not only was Bobby Banderias in place as rhythm guitarist, but Phil "Phil X" Xenidis (pictured)(Frozen Ghost, Aldo Nova and best known for replacing Rik Emmett in Triumph for the Edge of Excess album and tour) will be the stand in lead guitarist. A few media reports and videos can be accessed via: www.nola.com/jazzfest/index.ssf/2011/04/bon_jovi_rocked_even_without_r.html / www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3xA2ZjK1KI (Lay Your Hands On Me) / www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnVmwT5JF0w (Runaway).   RELEASE OF TNT'S VIDEO 'REFUGEE': TNT will hereby thank for the co-operation with the Norwegian Refugee Council and especially Secretary General Elisabeth Rasmusson and her staff at headquarters. Their organization is staffed by 3,000 employees, working in 20 countries and is the largest organization of its kind in the world today. TNT is proud to make a difference with them! When Ronni Le Tekrø and Tony Mills from TNT wrote the song "Refugee", they were inspired by refugees in Toten and their invisibility in society. The song and its theme aroused the enthusiasm of the NRC and collaboration occurred. This resulted in a video that presents both the band live on stage and refugee issues with the NRC in large parts of the world. Both parties hope the video will increase the focus on some of the most hopeless situations refugees and thereby generate financial support for our people in testing times. The job with the video has taken a few months of collaboration between the NRC and TNT's video team, but now that the NRC has launched the final version, we can also release it for general viewing. The video will be used worldwide by the NRC, the UN, and TNT networks worldwide. This video is one of the last things our beloved keyboardist Dag Stokke participated in before he left us April 26, 2011. We dedicate this video to the memory of our beloved Dag Stokke for his love, his friendship and his tireless work for TNT, as well as all the world's people who are on the run! We light a candle in the memory of Dag Stokke and wherever good hearted people are, they welcome the refugees of the world. The video is now ready for viewing at YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfvOlD6jLZ4. Last common picture of the band together with Dag Stokke (centre), Byscenen Trondheim11.02.2011.   CROWN OF THORNS DELIVER IN MADRID: MetalSymphony.com has uploaded photos of Crown Of Thorns's April 27, 2011 concert at Sala Caracol. Check them out at this location: www.metalsymphony.com/galeria/thumbnails.php?album=324. Crown Of Thorns's setlist was as follows: Intro: I Wanna Rock, Faith, Are You Ready, Hike It Up, Secret Jesus, Like a Knife (Voodoo X), I'm on Fire (Voodoo X), Rock Ready, Standing on the Corner, Crown of Thorns, Dying for Love, The Healer --- Bonzo Goes To Bitburg (Ramones), Something To Believe In (Ramones). ALBERTO RIGONI ALBUM OUT MAY 23 ON NIGHTMARE RECORDS: Born in Montebelluna (Treviso, Italy) in 1981, bass player Alberto Rigoni founded a well-known progressive-metal cover band, in 1998 called "Ascra", with drummer Enrico Buttol, performing mainly songs by Dream Theater. In 2003 he joined the emerging band Twinspirits (progressive rock metal), led by Daniele Liverani (Genius Rock Opera, Khymera, ex-Empty Tremor). The band's debut album "The Music That Will Heal The World" was released worldwide in 2007 by Finnish label Lion Music and received remarkable feedback. Besides Twinspirits" Rigoni composed his first solo album entitled "Something Different", released by Lion Music on February 15th 2008 with worldwide distribution. At the same time Alberto shot a video of his hit song "BASSex" (working with Italian company "Solingo Visual Arts") directed by Elia Cristofoli. The video was broadcast on some television networks such as RockTV. 2009 saw the release of the second Twinspirits album "The Forbidden City" on Lion Music. During this time period Rigoni also played bass as special guest on some tracks of Giani Rojatti's solo guitar album "Dolcetti Metal Beat" and scored some gear endorsements with great companies such as Aguilar Amplification, HipShot amongst others. The following year Rigoni began work on what was to become "Rebirth". It was also at this time that he became involved with the band Mistheria and played bass on their album "Dragonfire". The all-star line-up of Mistheria included: John West, Mark Boals, Rob Rock, Titta Tani, Lance King on vocals, George Bellas, Roger Staffelbach, Emir Hot, Neil Zaza on guitars, Alberto Rigoni on bass and on the drums John Macaluso. In 2011, Twinspirits released their third album "Legacy". It was at this time that Alberto signed with Nightmare Records. He is scheduled to release his sophomore solo album "Rebirth" on May 23rd, 2011. It was originally scheduled for May 24th, but pop queen Lady Gaga is putting out her new album that Monday May 23rd, so all Sony/Red and affiliated label releases will be coming out that day. "Rebirth" shows an extreme variety of tunes, some with voice and some instrumental. It's a union of experimental research blended with a solid backbone of melody. Music lovers around the world will want to witness his elegant simplicity to bring the bass instrument to the forefront without losing the rhythm and foundation of the music. Alberto successfully combines rock-prog fusion with hard-rock ambience, creating a blend that suggests a poetic mix that is free from any defined genre yet remains memorable an even catchy. "Rebirth" features contributions from a number of well-known musicians, including drummers Gavin Harrison (Porcupine Tree, King Krimson) John Macaluso (Ark, TNT, Yngwie Malmsteen), bassists Michael Manring and Yves Carbonne, Swedish singer Jonas Erixon (Alicate), guitarist Tommy Ermolli (Twinspirits) and Simone Mularoni (DGM, Empyrios), keyboard players Federico Solazzo (Alexia), Andrea Pavanello (Centrica), Filippo Lui and Emanuele Casali (DGM, Astra). For more info visit: www.albertorigoni.net / www.nightmarerecords.com. A TIME OF THANKS: With today's amazing news of the death of Osama Bin Liner, it gives one pause to think of all those great individuals out there from a large number of countries actively fighting or performing their duties overseas in order to keep our contries safe. I know there are quite a few reading this site and I appreciate their past correspondence. Just letting you folks know we appreciate what you are doing.

 

 

Friday, April 29, 2011

DEF LEPPARD CONFIRM USA LIVE PACKAGE RELEASE: Def Leppard have announced the US release date for their live set Mirrorball. The 2CD/1DVD set will appear on WalMart shelves exclusively on June 7, one day after Europe/UK. Germany, Austria and Switzerland get it June 3. The first single from the set is the new studio track Undefeated, available now via iTunes. WalMart pre-orders ($11.88 - www.walmart.com/ip/16533344)   xx BON JOVI TOURS ON WITHOUT RICHIE: News: "Bon Jovi rocker Richie Sambora is checking into rehab for exhaustion and sobriety issues, RadarOnline.com reports. "Richie recently has been drinking too much, and wants to get his life together," a source told Radar. The guitar star has been on tour with Bon Jovi and reportedly needs time to regroup. "Richie has had a busy year," a friend revealed. "I think this was a culmination of all the things that overloaded his life and finally he realized he needed to take care of himself." This isn't the first trip to rehab for the rocker, who spent time at Cirque Lodge in Utah in 2007 following his divorce from Heather Locklear and split with girlfriend Denise Richards. Bon Jovi has scheduled performances this month and is set to kick off a European tour in June. There's no word on how Sambora's treatment will affect his role in the band, but sources say the group stands behind his decision to seek treatment. Bon Jovi statement: "Our support for Richie is absolute. He is, and will remain, a member of Bon Jovi. Although he will be absent from upcoming shows for the time being, we very much look forward to his healthy return. In the meantime, we will keep our commitment to our fans and continue our tour." My comment: If Bon Jovi were 100% committed to Richie, then the next block of tour dates would be postponed and rescheduled, simple as that. But nothing stops the JBJ machine. I'm told Richie's replacement will be band friend and live backing guitarist Bobby Bandiera (pictured).   THE NEW REVIEW STREAMING NEW SONG FROM PIANO METALLERS 'IN LEGEND': In Legend, the world's first "Piano Metal" band is preparing to release their new album "Ballads 'N' Bullets" June 14th on SPV/Oblivion. Traditionally, most rock bands are dominated by guitars. Not so the case with In Legend, where the mother of all instruments is the "key" component: The piano. With an uncompromising feeling for hard and flowing melodies, the ivories are hammered by Bastian Emig to an unexplored extreme. In the process he has come to understand the unique, symbiotic union of the percussive and melodic instrument in order to create rousing and sweeping songs. In Legend is the essence of an artistic process that has been pulsating in the heart and maturing in the soul of Bastian during the last 10 years. And piece by piece it has been forged and hammered into the evoking sound which now characterizes it: The perfect blend of hard, soft, and uncompromising passion! Bastian describes In Legend as sounding like...... "Tori Amos on cocaine" TheNewReview.net is giving people a chance to check out another track from the upcoming release entitled "Heaven Inside". It can be streamed at: thenewreview.net/news/exclusive-listen-to-in-legends-heaven-inside. In Legend does in no way, try to exclusively create a brand new type of sound. It is the songs which take the listener on a new aural experience. Influenced by the rhythmical feeling and atmosphere of Burkina Faso on the African continent where he spent his early childhood, Bastian has developed into one of the finest drummers in the German rock scene. He has toured with metal and rock 'n' roll bands all across Europe and was also able to win the hearts of the Chinese fans as the drummer for the thrash metal band NARAKAM with whom he spent the years 2006 and 2007 in China. He is currently also the drummer for the world's only metal a-cappella band Van Canto. After returning to Germany from Africa, it seemed, though, that the drums weren't the only instrument to shape his musical career. Bastian, upon his return, started to teach himself how to play the piano by ear, and he already composed many songs at a very early age without being able to read a single note of sheet music. In Bastian's own words...... "I hear music but I've never seen it." Whilst trying to explain his own compositions to guitarists from his early bands, Bastian had been able to develop his own style, which comprises of smooth, carrying riffs in the left hand and flowing melodies in the right, and which is also apparent in the songs. Bastian has in fact discovered the previously unchartered territory of heavy music for the piano and describes his findings befittingly:... "Beaten paths are for beaten men" Together with this extraordinary talent, Bastian's unmistakable voice ubiquitously brings together all aspects which can also be found in his drumming: Intensity, energy, and passion. With their CD "Ballads N´ Bullets", In Legend look to bring their unique sound to the world. LINE-UP: Bastian Emig - piano, vocals, Daniel Wicke - bass, Dennis Otto - drums. For more info visit: www.inlegend.de / www.spv.de.   WHO CARES? THESE GUYS DO...: WhoCares, the musical project featuring current and former members of metal and hard rock gods Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, Iron Maiden and Metallica, will release their debut single in North America this June. According to Black-Sabbath.com, "Out of My Mind"/"Holy Water" will be available in the States on CD single on June 27. Proceeds will be donated to help rebuild a music school in Gyumri, Armenia. "Out of My Mind" features a who's who of metal giants, including singer Ian Gillan (Deep Purple), guitarists Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath) and Mikko "Linde" Lindström (HIM), bassist Jason Newsted (Metallica, Voivod), drummer Nicko McBrain (Iron Maiden) and keyboardist Jon Lord (Deep Purple). As such, it is a reunion of sorts on multiple fronts. Gillan fronted Black Sabbath for the Born Again album in the early '80s. Gillan is also reunited with founding Deep Purple member Jon Lord, who retired from the band in 2002. "Holy Water" also features Gillan and Iommi, though with a different supporting cast. As previously announced, the single will be released in Europe on May 24 and available for digital download on May 6. NewsLink: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/who-cares-0428-2011. INTRODUCING SOREN ANDERSEN: Soren Andersen, one of the most acknowledged rock guitarists in Denmark, releases his debut album throughout Europe on June 13. Soren is a great admirer of classic rock, and Constant Replay certainly salutes those about to rock like they did in the 70's. The album oozes of beautiful melodies, gritty guitar solos and enough energy to keep you up all night long. Soren respectfully nods at all his inspirations from Kiss to Hendrix, from Matthew Sweet to Fu Manchu, from Deep Purple to The Beatles - and he does it with a smile it'll be difficult not to reply with an even bigger smile. Aside from being a skilled professional with jobs all over the world and being endorsed by companies such as Marshall, Yamaha guitars, TC Electronic and D'Addario, he's also a lovable guy who just happens to have made his first solo album in the age of 37. And it is of course as brilliant as you would expect. This solo effort may have been buzzing in the back of his head for the last ten years, but it sounds as fresh and vibrant as it should, considering the basic tracks were recorded in just three days with a bunch of his friends from local neighbourhood of Vesterbro in Copenhagen. 'It's a snapshot of who I am right now,' says Soren Andersen, looks carefully around the room and sort of whispers: 'And I think you can call it power pop.' Maybe. But it's much more than that. In Europe he is also known for his work with Oliver Weers, Mike Tramp, Artillery and he has also produced a lot of Danish artists in famed Medley Studios, which he co-owns. It is also in the same studios he has mixed, mastered and produced 'Constant Replay' by himself. A true solo effort that tells a lot about Soren Andersen. Check out a brand new EPK about the creation of the album at Soren Andersen's official YouTube-channel. "Constant Replay" will be released in Denmark and rest of Europe by Target Records on June 13. Prior to the release Soren Andersen will be going on an extensive English tour as guitarist for Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Country Communion, etc.) Soren Andersen "Constant Replay" - Tracklist: 01. Song About You 02. Glitterworld 03. Black Lady 04. Lavender In My Calendar 05. So Many Faces 06. Cold Shock 07. Leave Me Alone 08. Catch Me If You Can 09. The Letter 10. California Girl 11. Time To Time 12. Bad Luck. WebLinks: www.youtube.com/sorenandersenmusic / www.targetrecords.dk.   AC/DC: LET THERE BE ROCK ON BLU-RAY/DVD ON JUNE 7: The tragic death of Bon Scott, AC/DC's flamboyant front-man in early 1980 sent shockwaves throughout the rock music community. At the time no one could imagine a 1979 Paris concert would be the last filmed live concert of the hallowed singer's career but he left the stage that night with the rest of the band leaving it all out there as he had done so many times before for millions of fans. Now for the first time ever on Blu-ray and DVD, Warner Home Video (WHV) is getting set to celebrate one of the greatest performers and legendary rock bands of all-time by releasing AC/DC – Let There Be Rock on June 7, 2011 to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the theatrical release. This legendary concert film showcases the power and precision the group brought to the stage that night during the Australian hard rock band's "Highway To Hell" tour. AC/DC – Let There Be Rock is fully remastered and available on DVD and Blu-Ray for the first time with all 13 song performances, including classics such as "Whole Lotta Rosie", "High Voltage", "Highway To Hell", and the epic anthem "Let There Be Rock". Lead guitarist Angus Young takes center stage in his trademark school-boy uniform and captures the audience with his energetic antics and frenetic solos. The film contains interview segments and humorous backstage footage of these hard rock pioneers, especially those last interviews with Scott. This DVD release will be a great opportunity for fans of all ages to relive one of the greatest performances by one of the most decorated rock bands in history. The Collector's Edition, limited at only 90k copies, comes in a collectible steel case, includes keepsake premium items and contains over an hour of newly added bonus features. Celebrity interviews include Rick Allen (Def Leppard), Matt Sorum (Guns N' Roses), Scott Ian (Anthrax), Billy Corgan (The Smashing Pumpkins), The Donnas, Lemmy Kilmister (Motorhead) and more. "AC/DC is one of the most iconic bands in rock music history and WHV is proud to showcase their legendary 1979 Paris concert on Blu-Ray and DVD for the first time ever," said Rosemary Markson, Vice-President of TV and Special Interest Marketing. "Warner Home Video is thrilled to bring this incredible show to AC/DC and rock fans, including a special limited collector's edition version with over an hour of never-before-seen bonus features and much more." JASON BONHAM JOINS THE NBA: ESPN and ABC have produced a special open for 2011 NBA Playoff coverage airing across the networks including Nicole Scherzinger and Jason Bonham performing Led Zeppelin's iconic "Black Dog." The video debuted Saturday, April 16, for the start of the playoffs on ESPN and ABC. "It was an honor to join Jason Bonham on the iconic Led Zeppelin song "Black Dog,'" Nicole commented. "I am excited that fans will be able to see the video during the NBA Playoffs." "Working with Nicole for the NBA Playoffs spot was amazing. She is the real deal," said Bonham. "Not only is she one of the most beautiful people I have ever met, but she has a fantastic and powerful voice. She has a great rock voice and it worked out fantastic for 'Black Dog.' I was so pleased to be able to bring this song to such a huge sporting event." Nicole Scherzinger is scheduled to release her solo debut, "Killer Love," on Interscope/A&M this summer. Nicole set international singles charts on fire with her last two releases, "Poison" and the #1 single "Don't Hold Your Breath," both of which will be included on "Killer Love." NewsLink & Video: www.starpulse.com/news/index.php/2011/04/27/nicole_scherzinger_performs_led_zeppel. ROCK 'N' ROLL MERCENARIES INTERVIEWS WITH ROCK STARS VOLUME II: "This is not just a collection of interviews, but an insight into the minds of some of rock 'n' roll's greatest characters." – Malcolm Dome "The list of interviews Mr. Daniels has compiled is most impressive - this man obviously takes his rock n' roll very seriously!" – Greg Prato "Daniels really gets under the skin of the rock 'n' roll industry…" – Joel McIver "I enjoy reading Neil's interviews almost as much as my own!" – Jeb Wright Volume II of the acclaimed Rock 'N' Roll Mercenaries anthology series compiles a hefty thirty interviews with some of rock and metal's most revered and successful artists. This latest archive collection features interviews with such rock legends as Europe, Guns N Roses, Diamond Head, Slade, Thunder, Foreigner and Saxon et al. There is also a bonus chapter featuring interviews with a small number of highly-acclaimed and well-known rock scribes, photographers and artists, namely, Alan Lewis, Gavin Baddeley, Mark Wilkinson, Peter Doggett, Phil Wilding, Richard Galbraith and Richie Unterberger. Volume I included interviews with 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. Both books are available to buy from Amazon, Book Depository and AuthorsOnline. You can buy directly from the publisher: www.authorsonline.co.uk/book/ BLACK LABEL SOCIETY: THE SONG REMAINS NOT THE SAME: Available for the first time together, unplugged versions from Black Label Society's critically acclaimed 'Order Of The Black' combined with additional material recorded during the 'Order Of The Black' sessions. Conceived, created and compiled by Zakk himself, 'The Song Remains Not The Same' a must buy for any BLS or Zakk fan. One of the major features is a version of the haunting ballad 'Darkest Days' featuring country superstar John Rich (Ex-Lonestar) on vocals. Zakk Wylde needs no introduction! He is the most decorated guitarist in history alongside Jimi Hendrix and Eddie Van Halen. Also for over 20 years he served as Ozzy Osbourne's guitarist, a collaboration that produced a string of multi-platinum albums, including Osbourne's biggest selling album 'No More Tears' (Wylde wrote all of the music). His band, Black Label Society, in August 2010 releases its eighth (and best) studio album, 'Order of the Black' (Riot!) a cacophony of heavy riffing, heartfelt ballads and thunderous metal. 'Order of the Black', the band's eighth album, isn't a radical departure from the band's previous work - it's simply a refinement. In that session Wylde recorded several extra tracks that now, along with unplugged versions make their way on 'The Song Remains Not The Same'   MELODIC ROCK AUCTION - STILL MORE TO COME: Some family issues to deal with today, so no auction additions. But I will complete these over the weekend, so please help support MelodicRock.com and grab some cool goodies. Coming up - a Stu Smith signed guitar; Sweden Rock Festival tickets & passes; Doug Aldrich pack (including signed guitar strap); Def Leppard signed wall promo for Vault and more.... Check out the Melodic Rock Auction Page. MRX UPDATE: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Bon Jovi - Live Tokyo, Japan, 31-12-1988 - Kiss - Live Mansfield, Boston, 2010 - Winger - Live MRF2, Elgin May 2010 And....Videos are back! More next week. New videos are online today from: First Signal - This City, Foreigner - Can't Slow Down, Mr. Big - Smoke On the Water (Live Budokan), FM - Wildside, Danger Avenue - Bigger Than All Of Us, Vega - Kiss Of Life. MRX Membership Details.   R.I.P. BASIL THE MELODIC ROCK DOG: R.I.P. Basil - the best dog and buddy ever. 1994 - 2011

 

 

Thursday, April 28, 2011

R.I.P. DAG STOKKE: TNT keyboardist Dag Stokke has died from cancer, April 27 2011. Dag was only 44 years old and was only diagnosed in January. Tony Harnell has written a condolence notice on Facebook that reads: "I can't believe I am writing these words. Sadly, this morning I have to say goodbye to Dag Stokke, my long time friend and keyboardist for TNT, who has left us today way too young. He fought a hard battle with dignity, courage and optimism..." R.I.P. Dag Stokke (1967-2011). LATEST LION MUSIC NEWS: Swedish progressive metal act Seventh Wonder after a long search are pleased to confirm Stefan Norgren (ex Lion's Share) as their new permanent drummer after a long search to replace the departed Johnny Sandin. Stefan is an experienced musician who was educated at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm, has been a teacher and drum instructor for many years, possesses a great voice and also plays piano and guitar. Stefan brings a slightly heavier, angrier and more groove based drumming approach to the band. On his appointment to Seventh Wonder Stefan comments: 'I can't wait to take on this challenge. Johnny's work is insane so listening to the bands back catalogue and learning the drum parts has been both exciting and scary. My philosophy will be to stay true to the original drums while adding my personal touch.' On Stefan's arrival in the band Seventh Wonder guitarist Johan Liefvendahl comments: 'When he walked in we instantly hit it off personally, which is very important in any band. We spent the day jamming and he auditioned a few SW songs and we all felt that what he brought was just what we were looking for. We're very happy to have him aboard!' Keyboard player Andreas Soderin adds: 'Obviously, not having a drummer all these months had in a way brought the band to a standstill. When Stefan set up his gear and began tearing it up with us that day it was kind of like a rocket launch for us. Seventh Wonder is now at full speed ahead!' Seventh Wonder released their fourth album 'The Great Escape' in December 2011 on Lion Music. The video for the track'Alley Cat' from that release has seen over 130k views on YouTube. Seventh Wonder will be headlining the prestigious Progpower Europe Festival on Friday September 30. Full info on 'The Great Escape' at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/greatescape.htm. Italian progressive metallers Twinspirits who released their third album "Legacy" on Lion Music in February 2011 have made available a number of special "making of" videos on YouTube to give fans an exclusive peak behind the scenes of the albums creation. Twinspirits keyboardist/composer Daniele Liverani worked his way through over 150GB of recorded footage to produce the following clips. GENERAL MAKING OF LEGACY video: BLACK MAJESTY – FURTHER THAN INSANE NEW VIDEO: Australian melodic power metal band Black Majesty have released a new promo film clip for the song Further Than Insane from their latest album In Your Honour, produced by Roland Grapow (Masterplan, ex – Helloween), released through Limb Music. The video was produced and directed by Steve Ravic (Manowar, Gamma Ray, Rhapsody, The Poodles) and features footage from the Sci-Fi film Humanity's End. The video can be viewed at the following link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhs9JcHoihs. WebLinks: www.blackmajesty.com / www.myspace.com/blackmajesty. REVIEWS UPDATE: New Reviews online today for: The Poodles, King Kobra, Shadowman and Uriah Heep. Check them out.

 

 

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

NEW AUCTIONS ADDED TODAY - TOTO, FM, FIREHOUSE + MORE: Another 9 really cool auctions launched today at: melodicrock.com/auction/index.php? Today's auctions include signed FM goodies, a Firehouse signed A4 + Bill Leverty Stage Shirt, Toto 2011 European concert tickets & VIP passes and Meniketti signed CDs. And more! AVENUE OF ALLIES PRESS RELEASE APRIL 2011: Avenue Of Allies Archives – new series of high quality re-issues On April 29Avenue Of Allies will release five high quality albums to kick of the new series of high quality re-issues called "Avenue Of Allies Archives". The first run of 1000 copies of each "Avenue Archives" CD comes as a Special Limited Edition in a jewel case with an additional numbered slipcase. The CDs include extensive booklets incl. lyrics, new liner notes by the artist, track-by-track musicians credits and if available exclusive bonus tracks. Volumes 1 to 5 are high profile AOR and Westcoast albums featuring am impressive line-up of musicians and song writers. All CDs are available for the first time outside of Japan. King Of Hearts – 1989 (Avenue 1105 0025 – Avenue Archives Vol. 1) The unreleased debut album from 1989. Songs in the Tim Feehan meets Richard Marx vein. King of Hearts are: Tommy Funderburk, Bruce Gaitsch, Kelly Keagy & George Hawkins, feat. Bill Champlin (Chicago), CJ Vanston (Richard Marx, Steve Lukather), and the Eagles members Timothy B. Schmit & Randy Meisner. George & G. - So Much To Say (Avenue 1106 0026 – Avenue Archives Vol. 2) incl. 2 bonus tracks. Originally released in 2006, this album is a Westcoast AOR dream coming true. Classic sound à la Toto and Chicago, feat. Bill Champlin, Joseph Williams, Jason Scheff, Warren Wiebe, Alex Ligertwood, David Garfield, Eric Marienthal, Lou Pardini and more.   xx David Roberts - All Dressed Up (Avenue 1107 0027 – Avenue Archives Vol. 3) One of THE all-time Westcoast classics, recorded in 1982. Remastered sound and for the first time track-by-track musicians credits feat. Jeff Porcaro, Steve Lukather, Jay Graydon, David Foster, Greg Mathieson, Mike Porcaro, Paulinho Da Costa, Bill Champlin, Joe Chemay, Tom Kelly and many more. David Roberts - Better Late Than Never (Avenue 1108 0028 – Avenue Archives Vol. 4) The much-anticipated 2008 recording comeback of one of the great AOR song writers (Bad English, House Of Lords, Signal, Starship, Jimmy Barnes, Lee Aaron, Boulevard, Nielsen Pearson). Songs co-written with John Waite and Randy Goodrum. Feat. Michael Landau, Mike Baird, Luis Conte, Fred Mollin, Abraham laboriel Sr., Pat Coil, Shannon Forrest, Brent Mason and many more. David Roberts - The Missing Years (Avenue 1109 0029 – Avenue Archives Vol. 5) incl. 2 bonus tracks. 15 newly remastered songs from David's archives. Feat. Stan Meissner, John Albani, Anthony Vanderburgh and Arnold Lanni.   xxxx In further news Avenue Of Allies has taken over the distribution of Faithealer - Welcome To The Edge Of The World in certain territories. Faithealer is the duo of Ivan Gunn (Pride, Balance Of Power) and Jason Marks (S.I.N., Forever). Their sound is an impressive combination of Pomp AOR & epic Melodic Rock in the vein of Red Dawn, Tour De Force, Giuffria, House Of Lords and the classic Balance Of Power debut album. More Avenue Of Allies news coming very soon including the details for the smokin' hot debut album by the high profile AOR project Lionville and the long awaited comeback of the female fronted Swedish Melodic Rockers Alyson Avenue with their new front woman Arabella Vitanc. Both albums are a pure bliss for all fans of classic AOR and Melodic Rock. MELODIC BRIEFS: Bobby Kimball has written an open letter to fellow Toto vocalist Fergie Frederiksen. Check it out at: fergiefrederiksen.wordpress.com/2011/04/24/words-from-bobby-kimball-to-fergie/ Half Way Jam, MN is another 80's rock festival due to deliver in July - check out www.halfwayjam.com/index.php for details. Featured bands include Firehouse, Kix, Skid Row, Cinderella, Stephen Pearcy, Lita Ford, Quiet Riot and Slaughter. (New York, NY): Vancouver rock band Theory of a Deadman are currently mounting their return to the rock scene with their fourth studio album, The Truth Is… The album is due out July 12 via Roadrunner/604 Records and was recorded at Bay 7 in Los Angeles with producer, Howard Benson (My Chemical Romance, 3 Doors Down.) The band is currently road-testing some of the new songs while on tour, including "Lowlife," which is the first single, set to land at radio in mid-May. OUTLOUD OPENING FOR TWISTED SISTER ON JULY 12 IN ATHENS, GREECE: Outloud - the Greece based hard-rocking outfit featuring Bob Katsionis (Firewind), Mark Cross (Ex-Helloween, Firewind) and singer Chandler Mogel (ex-TALON) - are confirmed to open for Twisted Sister in Athens, Greece on July 12th at the Horseriding Olympic complex. The release of their second album has not been announced yet, but is to be expected in autumn 2011. Following their successful 2009 debut We'll Rock You To Hell And Back Again! from Frontiers Records, Outloud recently returned with 'Waiting For Your Love', a brand new track for 2011, from their upcoming sophomore album, Love Catastrophe. The song can be heard via the band's personal page, exclusively on the Greek music community site, Jumping Fish (www.jumpingfish.gr/outloud). The song is mixed by Danish engineer Tommy Hansen know from his work with Helloween, TNT, Pretty Maids, etc., and produced by Bob Katsionis.   MORE WESTCOAST HIGHLIGHTS AND RARITIES: Highlights and Rarities is Contante & Sonante's long-awaited comeback release after the critically acclaimed triumph of 2009's Fly Away / The Songs of David Foster. Fly Away / The Songs of David Foster definitely marked a turning point for our label. Years of hard work produced a once-in-a-lifetime record that featured a who's who of quality pop like Bill Champlin, Jeff Pescetto, Arnold McCuller, Bill LaBounty, Warren Wiebe, Robbie Dupree, Bill Cantos, Joe Pizzulo and many more. Highlights and Rarities is a special album that showcases a collection of hits from our past catalogue that includes the previously mentioned David Foster tribute, Steve Dorff's magical 2004 release of Original Demos and two releases by Swiss music-maker Urs Wiesendanger, 2005's Somebody New and A Christmas Eve in LA., originally issued in 2006. The treat with Highlights and Rarities is that it also presents eight unreleased songs from the label's vaults, which come directly from those same recordings or have been especially produced for the occasion. Among these rarities you'll find many pleasant surprises like the never before heard ballad from Steve Dorff's private archive, "My Angel's Voice," beautifully performed by the late Warren Wiebe. "My Angel Voice" is another tender, moving performance by Mr. Wiebe that finally sees the light of day. Additionally, "A Little Thing Called Life", "Kindred Spirit" and "Somewhere In Time" are the selected numbers from the Steve Dorff original release added to the track listing. Urs Wiesendanger's contributions to Highlights and Rarities include eight tracks, four of them heard here for the first time. The previously unreleased gems are "Luckiest Man", a smooth, sultry R&B number featuring world-renowned guitar player Chris Camozzi, plus great vocals courtesy of the talented Skyler Jett who was a singer for The Commodores. "When I Think of You" is an extraordinary ballad featuring great Swiss singer Rey Thomas, backed up by the incredible Robbie Buchanan on rhodes. Another couple of Wiesendanger's goodies are beautiful renditions of the Christmas evergreens "Silent Night" and "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas". Both songs are performed by the fantastic singer and regular Weisendanger collaborator Thierry Condor. Highlights and Rarities presents Bill Champlin's "In The Stone," from the Fly Away project, with an alternate-beginning version included only on the Limited Edition EP plus Arnold McCuller's refined take on "Jojo" and Ole Borud's "Through The Fire", which can only be found on the European CD release. You can also find three previously unreleased numbers from the same Fly Away sessions, which remained uncompleted and have been re-arranged for this special occasion. All of them are produced and arranged by the very talented Tomi Malm. Among these new songs, we have a haunting cover of "Forever", a ballad originally sung by Kenny Loggins who co-wrote it with Foster for Loggins' Vox Humana album. SunHo Lim, a fantastic new name from Korea, offers an outstanding vocal performance on this emotional take of the classic. Another remarkable rarity is a stunning rendition of The Tubes' rocking classic "She's a Beauty". Malm's inventive arrangement truly brings the famous song into another dimension. Bjarne Langhoff's amazing vocal, backed by a powerful rhythm section, add fire to the tune and takes it one step higher. And best way to end this magnificent album is a new version of the David Foster and Boz Scaggs hit "Look What You've Done To Me". This adaptation of the song that Foster considers to be one of his best ever gives the listener a new, light bossa nova version that features a different piano performance by Foster and also a new, wonderful lead vocal by L.A.-based singer Cecily Gardner. The song also features renowned guitar player Mitchell Long and Danish drummer Lars Daugaard. We guarantee that Highlights and Rarities isn't the typical compilation album. It's a superior release that will help you rediscover many familiar sounds from the past as well as new, fantastic secrets from Contante & Sonante's amazing world of music. We have put this album out as an exclusive 1000 copy limited numbered edition, so go and order your copy now before they're all gone! Album tracks: 1. A Little Thing Called Life (Dorff, Thompson) 2. Kindred Spirits (Dorff, Derry) 3. Somewhere In Time (Dorff, Williams, Blazy) 4. My Angel's Voice (Dorff, Herbstritt) 5. The Final Reason Why (Wiesendanger, Fontan) 6. If Only For A Day (Wiesendanger, Adahl) 7. Luckiest Man (Wiesendanger, Camozzi, Jett) 8. When I Think Of You (Wiesendanger, Webb) 9. The Christmas Song (Torme, Wells) 10. This Christmas (Hathaway, McKinnon) 11. Silent Night (Gruber, Mohr) 12. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas (Martin, Blane) 13. In The Stone (Foster, White, Willis) 14. Jojo (Foster, Lasley, Scaggs) 15. Through The Fire (Foster, Keane, Weil) 16. Forever (Foster, Loggins, Ein) 17. She's A Beauty (Foster, Lukather, Waybill) 18. Look What You've Done To Me - 2011 Version (Foster, Scaggs). FREEDOM CALL CD & DVD "LIVE IN HELLVETIA" COMING IN MAY/JUNE: Having sold over 35,000 copies of their debut, Stairway To Fairyland, Freedom Call`s tour with Saxon, Angra and Edguy turned into a triumphal march, culminating in memorable shows with Savatage and Skew Siskin in August 1999 as part of the Popkomm music fair in Cologne. The band played almost fifty shows in 2000 and proved their worth at various festivals, like the Wacken Open Air 1999 and 2000. Their second release, Crystal Empire, even surpassed the debut's success. The sales figures increased, and even before the album was available, Freedom Call were invited to the Metal Fest in Bologna, Italy, played the Metal Days in Switzerland and delivered an unforgettable performance at the Stratovarius/Rhapsody show in Bourges, France. Following the release of Crystal Empire, Freedom Call embarked on a 63-day European tour with Hammerfall and Virgin Steele that took them through Scandinavia, Holland, Germany, Austria, Hungry, France and Spain, among other countries. June 2002 saw the arrival of the third Freedom Call recording, Eternity, followed by an extensive tour with Blind Guardian, during which their most recent release, Live Invasion, was recorded. At the same time, Freedom Call established themselves as a headlining act in their own right and were celebrated as the stars of the Wacken Road Show 2004 night after night. The Circle Of Life saw the integration of more modern and unusual arrangements into the band's sound, extending the musicians' sonic range – an element which their album, Dimensions, also benefits from. With both albums they toured extensively with bands like Rage and Dragonforce. In 2010 the album Legend Of The Shadowking saw the light of day. The album is based on the story of King Ludwig II and charted in Sweden and Finland. In February/March 2010 Freedom Call embarked on a huge european tour together with Gamma Ray and in May 2010 with Axel Rudi Pell. Afterwards they played over 40 gigs on festivals and as a headliner. After nearly 15 years of existence and approx. 200.000 albums sold it was time for the first DVD which was shot by the end of 2010 in Pratteln, Switzerland. Line-Up: Chris Bay Vocals & Guitars, Lars Rettkowitz Guitars, Backing Vocals, Samy Saemann Bass, Backing Vocals, Klaus Sperling Drums, Backing Vocals. Trailer: www.youtube.com/user/spv. Release Dates: Germany / Austria / Switzerland: May 20th, 2011 / Rest of Europe: May 23rd, 2011 / USA/Canada: June 14th, 2011.

 

 

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

MELODIC ROCK AUCTION UNDERWAY: The MelodicRock.com MEGA-AUCTION has commenced. Please view the auction page here. Running off customized software for this site, you can register to bid and/or watch any or all items and hopefully take home a few items. There are currently 36 auctions running, but still 50 more to come including collectors items, concert tickets, t-shirts, rarities and autographed items. New items will be added every day, so keep a watch on this process. Online currently are items from Ted Poley, Kelly Keagy, Poley/Rivera, MRCDs, Bad Habit, Rick Springfield, Shooting Star, David Readman, Zion, Bangalore Choir, Ozzy Osbourne, Iced Earth and more... VIEW AUCTIONS HERE. ESCAPE MUSIC ANNOUNCE THE SIGNING OF THE SWEDISH FUNK ROCKERS ELECTRIC BOYS: Escape Music are pleased to announce the signing of the Swedish funk rockers Electric Boys for a European release of their new studio album And Them Boys Done Swang, due out May 27. Electric Boys was formed as a duo in 1988 in Stockholm, Sweden by Conny Bloom (guitar and vocals) and Andy Christell (bass) and got a hit song right away with the track "All Lips N' Hips" after which the members Franco Santunione (guitar) and Niclas Sigevall (drums) were recruited. The band dropped down like a bomb in contemporary pop-Sweden with its headstrong mixture of groove, Beatles-phsychedelia and heavy guitar riffs and in 1989 they released their critically acclaimed debut Funk-O-Metal Carpet Ride. Funk-O-Metal Carpet Ride was later released internationally including five new songs produced by monster-producer Bob Rock (Metallica, Mötley Crüe etc.). Electric Boys toured tenaciously in Europe and in the U.S. where they were climbing the Billboard list while "All Lips N' Hips" was set on heavy rotation on MTV. In Sweden the band had a huge hit with the song "För Fet För Ett F**k" (To Fat To F**k"), a song which was specially written for the now late comedian Micke Dubois. The single sold platinum and made it to nr. 1 on the prestigious Swedish Tracks list. 1992 the follow up album Groovus Maximus was released. The album was recorded in the legendary "Beatles studio" Abbey Road in London and the band continued touring mainly in the U.S.A., Great Britain and Sweden. 1994 the album Freewheelin' was released and the members decided to dissolve the band soon after with a farewell concert in their hometown Stockholm. After four years playing with Hanoi Rocks, Conny Bloom and Andy Christell decided to reunite Electric Boys in the beginning of 2009. They released a "Best Of" album in the spring and played at the famous Sweden Rock Festival on June 5th. The band, which nowadays consists of the original line-up from the late 80's, performed at several festivals in Sweden, Finland and England during the summer and finished off with touring clubs in Sweden in September. In December Electric Boys supported Alice Cooper. During the fall of 2010 the band has been in the studio to record their first album since 1994. The masterpiece is called And Them Boys Done Swang. Tracks: 1- Reeferlord 2-My Heart's Not For Sale 3-Father Popcorn's Magic Oysters 4-Angel In An Armoured Suit 5-Ten Thousand Times Goodbye 6-The House Is Rockin' 7-Welcome To The High Times 8-Sometimes U Gotta Go Look For the Car 9-Put Your Arms Around Me 10-The Day The Gypsies Came To Town 11-Rollin' The World 12-A Mother Of A Love Story. Members: Conny Bloom - Vocals & Guitar, Andy Christell - bass, Franco Santunione - guitar, Niclas Sigevall - drums. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   xx MYSTERY TRACK REVEALED BY AVENUE OF ALLIES MUSIC: For those curious minds who enjoyed last week's two Mystery Tracks - the answer is about to be revealed. Read on... Avenue Of Allies is extremely proud to present two brand new albums, that are a pure bliss for all fans of classic AOR and Melodic Rock. Both CDs are due out on June 10. The album including the two mystery tracks featured on melodicrock.com last week is the debut record by Lionville. A high profile project dedicated to pure AOR, drawing inspiration from acts like Toto, Richard Marx, Survivor, Boulevard and Bad English. The record was produced by Alessandro Del Vecchio (Edge Of Forever, Eden's Curse, Glenn Hughes, Axe) and it features a cast of top flight musicians and song writers. Lars Säfsund of Work of Art is handling all lead vocals, musicians include Bruce Gaitsch (Richard Marx, Chicago, Peter Cetera), Tommy Denander, Eric Martensson (W.E.T., Eclipse), Sven Larsson (Street Talk), Arabella Vitanc (Alyson Avenue) and the Shining Line team. Most of the songs on the album were written by Stefano Lionetti including co-operations with Pierpaolo "Zorro" Monti, Robert Säll (Work of Art), Lars Säfsund, Alessandro Del Vecchio, Sven Kronqvist (Issa, Crash The System) and Tommy Denander. An exclusive track for the album comes from Bruce Gaitsch, co-written with Richard Marx and Amy Sky. Check out both tracks again - Download: Thunder In Your Heart and Here By My Side. Changes is the title of the second smokin' hot release, it's the highly anticipated comeback of the female fronted Swedish Melodic Rockers Alyson Avenue. The album introduces powerhouse vocalist Arabella Vitanc. All songs were co-produced and mixed by Chris Laney (Crazy Lixx, H.E.A.T., Brian Robertson). The album includes a duet with Michael Bormann and guest appearances by Rob Marcello (Danger Danger, Marcello - Vestry), Anette Olzon (Nightwish, ex-Alyson Avenue), Fredrik Berg (Street Talk, Bloodbound), Tommy Stråhle and Mike Andersson (Cloudscpae, Planet Alliance). The gents in Alyson Avenue on Arabella's side are main song writer and keyboard player Niclas Olsson, Thomas Löyskä on bass and guitar, Fredrik Eriksson on drums and Tony Rohtla on guitar."   xx LOST IN THOUGHT: NEW TRACK POSTED ONLINE: The full track Blood Red Diamond from the up-coming debut album Opus Arise from the progressive metallers Lost In Thought can be streamed through the bands official Facebook page [www.facebook.com/pages/Lost-In-Thought/25094411320?sk=app_2405167945]. "Opus Arise" will be released in Europe and North America on April 29 through Inner Wound Recordings. Lost In Thought has a wide variety of musical influences, which is incorporated in their music. Combining the elements of progressive rock, symphonic power and melodic metal to create their unique and epic sound. From all these musical elements, LOST IN THOUGHT's music consists of both heavy and distinct riffs, large orchestrations, melodic guitar and keyboard unisons, epic vocal melodies, variable time signatures and dynamic ballad sections. "Opus Arise" is definitely a must for all fans of bands like Threshold, Circus Maximus, Pagan's Mind and Seventh Wonder. "Opus Arise" was mastered by Jacob Hansen [Volbeat, Pretty Maids, Destruction] Lost In Thought will embark on a one month long tour in Europe supporting Delain and Serenity on April 29th, the same date "Opus Arise" is released. "Opus Arise" track listing; 1. Beyond The Flames 2. Entity 3. Blood Red Diamond 4. Seek To Find 5. New Times Awaken 6. Delusional Abyss 7. Lost In Thoughts 8. Assimulate, Destroy. For more information on Lost In Thought: www.facebook.com/pages/Lost-In-Thought/25094411320.   MATTHEW DAVIS LAPORTE- SEPTEMBER 11, 1970- APRIL 20, 2011: Two recent posts from drummer of Jon Oliva's Pain, Christopher Kinder talking about the sad passing of guitarist Matthew Davis LaPorte. R.I.P. Matthew. 1 -"It is with great heartache and sorrow that we relay the passing of our dear friend, band-mate, guitarist and brother Matthew LaPorte. Matt passed away in his home shortly after 6 pm on Wednesday. No information regarding his cause of death is currently available. Matt was a brilliant guitar player on all levels. He understood that instrument better than almost anyone. His knowledge of music in general was just amazing. His contributions to Jon Oliva's Pain and every band he ever played with was also without measure. He was truly a one-guitar army when he needed to be and his solo performances on all the JOP CDs will forever send chills down our spines. A near 20-year history and friendship with one of the true greats has now ended and we are deeply saddened. We miss you terribly Matt, and we will celebrate your music and life each and every day. That great band in the sky just got a whole lot better, and you are in the most peaceful place you could have ever hoped for. Until we meet again..." 2- "It's been a very rough week for all of us, and we thank you from the bottom of hearts for your support of him, JOP and of course his family and friends". obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Matthew-LaPorte&lc=4681&pid=150471557&mid=4645571&locale=en-US. 2011 RECORD STORE DAY NIELSEN SOUNDSCAN MUSIC SALES: Record Story Day was on Saturday, April 16, 2011. All sales figures are for the entire week, Monday-Sunday (week ending April 17, 2011) in the U.S. Sales Highlights 2011 is the most successful Record Store Day yet. o Independent record stores sold 13% more albums in 2011 vs. 2010 for the week of Record Store Day. o Album sales at independent record stores increased more than 39% over the prior week. o Top sellers at core independent record stores increased 88% over the prior week; in 2010 this figure was +26% and +16% in 2000. Independent record store album sales increases by year: (sales percentage increase over the prior week) 2011 (April 16, 2011): +39% 2010 (April 17, 2010): +12% 2009 (April 18, 2009): +21% 2008 (April 19, 2008): +0.4% Vinyl album sales increased more than 220% at independent record stores. o 2011 was up more than 70% from Record Store Day in 2010. The weekly increase in 2010 was 119%. o Independent record stores sold nearly 84% of all Vinyl LPs last week. o There were 14 new vinyl album releases that sold 1,000 copies or more, and 37 that sold at least 500 copies. o The top selling vinyl album was Panda Bear's Tomboy, with 7,000 copies sold for the week. Vinyl singles sold at a rate of over 13-times greater than the normal sales week. o Record Store Day sales doubled the entire year-to-date vinyl single total in just one week; sales of vinyl singles last week are nearly double last year's 2010 Record Store Day. o There were 27 new vinyl single releases that sold at least 500 copies. o Brown Sugar/The Rolling Stones is the best selling vinyl single released for Record Store Day, with 2,000 copies sold. The Foo Fighters released Medium Rare - a 120 gram Record Store Day exclusive – which sold 2,000 copies. The Foo Fighters also had the best-selling album overall for the week, Wasting Light with 235,000 copies sold. MELODIC BRIEFS: Black N Blue lead singer Jaime St. James checked in with Hardrock Haven to discuss the making and the release of their long-awaited fourth studio effort, Hell Yeah!; some of the travails they went through to get this album to see the light of day; specific songs like Target, A Tribute to Hawking and Hail Hail; if ex-bandmate and current KISS member Tommy Thayer has heard the new album; why Jaime hoards the beer from his band mates; upcoming tour plans; and a whole lot more. To hear the audio interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/jaime-st-james-of-black-n-blue-2/. Hardrock Haven recently chatted with Love/Hate and L.A. Guns frontman Jizzy Pearl about the re-release of his three books, I Got More Crickets Than Friends, Angst for the Memories, and Unhappy Endings. Jizzy also talks about his writing process, the current state of music, and a variety of other topics. For more info about Jizzy's current music and writing ventures, be sure to visit www.jizzypearl.com. To hear the 45+ minute audio interview, head to hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/jizzy-pearl/. Original Kiss guitar legend Ace Frehley is the latest act confirmed for Hard Rock Hell V which is scheduled for December 2nd - 4th at Pontins in Prestatyn, North Wales. The Space Ace will headline Saturday, December 3rd and will see a rare performance of his entire 1978 solo album. SWEET SOUNDS MUSIC FESTIVAL: Press Release / "Sweet Sounds announce the Sweet Sounds Music Festival - "The Woodstock Of Rock" will take place at 21 Rock in St. Louis Missouri on Saturday, October 15th 2011. Indoor stage / 15 bands / Special Guests: Go to www.sweetsounds.us if your interested in playing - a few slots remaining!!.

 

 

Thursday, April 21, 2011

WARRANT'S "ROCKAHOLIC" CONFIRMED FOR MAY RELEASE: Warrant's brand new album Rockaholic has now been confirmed for the release on May 13 in Europe and May 17 in North America on Frontiers Records. At the helm of Rockaholic is mega-producer Keith Olsen (Ozzy Osbourne, Whitesnake, Scorpions) and the album is mixed by Pat Regan (Kiss, Deep Purple, Ted Nugent). The album finds the band returning to its trademark sound. Warrant original members Erik Turner, Jerry Dixon, Joey Allen and Steven Sweet welcomed long-time band friend and fellow touring mate, singer Robert Mason (Lynch Mob, Cry of Love) into the fold. With 8 million records sold worldwide, two Top Ten Billboard albums, five Top 40 Billboard hit singles and five #1 MTV videos, Warrant was one of the most popular and successful rock bands to hail out of the Los Angeles rock scene in the late 80s/early 90s. Formed in the mid-80s by original members Erik Turner and Jerry Dixon, Warrant's biggest hits included "Cherry Pie" and "Heaven". Warrant Rockaholic track listing: 1. Sex Ain't Love 2. Innocence Gone 3. Snake 4. Dusty's Revenge 5. Home 6. What Love Can Do 7. Life's A Song 8. Show Must Go On 9. Cocaine Freight Train 10. Found Forever 11. Candy Man 12. Sunshine 13. Tears In The City 14. The Last Straw. Sample all tracks right here. For more information please visit: www.warrantrocks.com / www.frontiers.it.   SKANSIS WILL BE LEAVING YOU IN MAY: Skansis are back, that exciting hard rock band from Bern in Switzerland and they are better than ever. The band plays slick hard rock with an aggressive edge. If you have a liking for bands like Gotthard, Van Halen, Europe and George Lynch then these five guys are just up your alley. They have opened for bands like Krokus, 3M (ex-Whitesnake), Vivian and Shakra in the past and it will not be long before they are headline material themselves. Escape Music will release the band's new album Leaving You on May 27. Track List: 1-Next To Mine 2-Leaving You 3-Never Walk Alone 4-I Don't Believe 5-I Want You 6-Coming Out 7-Rock All Night 8-Carry You On 9-Hear Now 10-Just Another Day 11-Back From War 12-Anything. Download this full track preview from the new album - Leaving You. Reist Reto – Vocals, Heiniger Beat – Guitars, Joss Daniel – Acoustic guitar, Menz Pfister – Bass, Hagmann Matthias – Drums. Produced by: Bax Heiniger. Skansis are a very much a new band and have only been together a few years but in that time they have created a stir in the competitive world of rock music. "Take your Chance" (ESM156), their debut album featured 12 tracks of outstanding quality and garnered rave reviews across the globe. They do possess that air of originality that sets them apart from the rest and it really is pleasure to the ears, the tracks seems to flow effortlessly from the start, the new songs are that much more exciting than the debut. Tracks like "Next To Mine", "I want you" and "Back from War" really do have you begging for more. If you like bands such as Shakra and Gotthard then you will love this band! "Leaving You" will hit the streets very soon and Skansis will attract a whole new fan base on top of the one they have already. www.Escape-Music.com.   xx MYSTERY TRACK PART 2: Time to tease a little more. Mystery Track #1 was launched Tuesday. Great response too from many. I have another teaser track now, with the full details of this release to be announced Tuesday. But for now I can tell you that one of the guitarists on track one was superstar sessionman Bruce Gaitsch. Now one more track from the album - Download: Thunder In Your Heart. LATEST ROCK CANDY RELEASES OUT NOW: Rock Candy Records' relaunched sister label Grind That Axe is gearing up for two new releases featuring fresh music from two coveted established artists. Joining Rock Candy are Stampede and Sweet Savage, two names that will be very familiar to discerning rock fans. Both albums are available for immediate purchase at a reduced price of £10.99 each. Please navigate to the Rock Candy Store to make your purchase. Stampede 'A Sudden Impulse' CANDYMAN003 - The NWOBHM (New Wave Of British Heavy Metal) was responsible for a lot of tosh but Stampede, were one of the most respected hard rock acts during the era, receiving both critical and commercial acclaim. Signed to Polydor Records, the band released two albums of seriously impressive melodic rock, tough on delivery yet sweet enough to suggest that the band weren't just a one trick pony. Compared to the earthy swagger of UFO and Fastway, the group's sound made much of its British roots and yet hinted at the sort of vibe that was making Def Leppard a household name in North America. It didn't hurt either, that vocalist Rueben Archer was a cut above the average histrionic heavy metal goon and that guitarist Lawrence Archer (yes, they are related!) had been identified by the rock cognoscenti as one of the leading lights of the genre. It's no surprise then that Laurence was snapped up by both UFO and Thin Lizzy's Phil Lynott immediately after Stampede's mid 1980's hiatus. Fast forward some 25 years… with the band's catalogue back in print, the interest generated prompted Rueben to consider a reformation of the original band. He floated the concept by Lawrence and received a surprisingly warm reaction, resulting in the two main offenders buckling down to a period of writing, rehearsing and recording. Together with original bassist Colin Bond and a handful of helping hands – including new hot shot guitarist Rob Wolverson and drummer Steve Graystone - the band have crafted a worthy and impressive, long lost follow-up to 'Hurricane Town', a new record harnessing all the promise of the original band but with the experience of years crafting their art in numerous studios and on the live circuit. Track Listing: 1. Send Me Dow An Angel 2. Jessie 3. Having Fun 4. Make A Change 5. Hard Rock Hell 6. This Road 7. Homeward Bound 8. Shame On You 9. Natural Disaster 10. Humble Pie 11. Flaming Gold Bonus tracks 12. Recharged 13. Flaming Gold (acoustic). Sweet Savage 'Regeneration' CANDYMAN004 - Formed IN Belfast during the late 70s and originally featuring Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell, Sweet Savage earned their NWOBHM (New Wave Of British Heavy Metal) stripes by releasing a succession of hard hitting singles and playing some of the most impressive live gigs of the era. Sadly, maybe due to geographical restrictions, the band failed to achieve the same success as their partners in crime such as Saxon, Samson, Iron Maiden and Diamond Head. It was no fault of their music that's for sure. With true grit and determination the band continued to make sporadic reformations over the years, most notably in 1991 following Metallica's surprise decision to record one of their signature tracks as the B-side of 'The Unforgiven' single. In July last year the band reached a crisis point with the death of original guitarist Trevor Fleming but not before they had completed their latest album titled 'Regeneration' Vibrant and full of vim and vigour, perhaps the best thing of all about this latest record is the fact the band have refused to abandon their roots, crafting songs and riffs that although contemporary in execution do not for one moment lose sight of their original scruffy urchin intention. Track Listing: 1. Warbird 2. Powder Monkey 3. Regenerator 4. No Guts No Glory 5. Saviour (I Am Not) 6. Do Or Die 7. Money 8. Razor's Edge 9. Whiskey In The Jar 10. Eye Of The Storm 11. Queen's Vengeance 12. Achilles 13. The Raid.   xx KEEL ANNOUNCES 2011 EUROPE/UK TOUR ITINERARY: Following up on successful 2010 shows in the Netherlands and Sweden that included a prime time appearance at the Stockholm Rock Out Festival, Keel has announced the dates for their 2011 Europe/UK Tour. The band, which released their critically acclaimed comeback album "Streets Of Rock & Roll" last year on Frontiers Records simultaneously with "The Right To Rock: 25th Anniversary Edition," will hit four countries in five days, finishing up with a London concert which marks KEEL's first UK appearance since their 1986 tour with Dio. 9/22: Terneuzen (Netherlands) - De Pit 9/23: Kerkrade (Netherlands) - The Rock Temple 9/24: Uster (Switzerland) - Rock City 9/25: Ludwigsburg (Germany) - H.E.A.T. Festival 9/26: London (England) - The Underworld WebLink: keelnation.com / facebook.com/ronkeel.   MSG TO SUPPORT BCC IN UK: It has today been confirmed that the legendary Michael Schenker Group will support Anglo-American rockers Black Country Communion on their forthcoming UK concerts in July 2011. In a pairing that unites one of the most well-respected metal guitarists of all time with the hottest rock and roll band for years, BCC / MSG tour dates include - Llandudno Cymru Arena (July 23rd), Leeds o2 Academy (July 26th), Newcastle o2 Academy (July 27th), Glasgow o2 Academy (July 29th) and Manchester Academy (July 30th). National ticket hotline: 0871 230 1101 / Book online: www.seetickets.com. Black Country Communion's July UK tour will follow the release of their highly anticipated second album "BCC 2" on June 13th. BCC will also appear at London's High Voltage Festival on Sunday July 24th. Read the official July UK tour press release ­ www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/blackcountrycommunion/tour.htm. JUDAS PRIEST SHOUT THE DEPARTURE OF KK DOWNING: Sorry for the shouting in this Judas Priest press release. Seems their PR office computer had a broken caps key - "IT IS WITH REGRET THAT JUDAS PRIEST ANNOUNCE THAT K.K. DOWNING HAS FORMALLY RETIRED FROM THE BAND AND WILL THEREFORE NOT BE JOINING THEM ON THEIR FORTHCOMING EPITAPH TOUR. THE BAND RESPECT HIS DECISION AND NATURALLY ALL WISH HIM WELL. HAVING THOUGHT LONG AND HARD ABOUT HOW TO PROCEED, ROB, GLENN, IAN AND SCOTT UNANIMOUSLY AGREED THAT THEY SHOULD GO AHEAD WITH THE TOUR AND NOT LET THE FANS DOWN ALL AROUND THE WORLD. FATE ALSO STEPPED IN AND DELIVERED THE PERFECT REPLACEMENT - 31 YEAR OLD BRITISH GUITAR PLAYER RICHIE FAULKNER - HE HAS BLENDED INTO THE BAND PERFECTLY AND IS A GREAT TALENT WHO IS GOING TO HELP SET THE STAGE ON FIRE! THE EPITAPH TOUR WILL INCLUDE SONGS FROM EVERY PRIEST STUDIO ALBUM AND ALSO TRACKS THEY HAVE NEVER BEFORE PERFORMED ON STAGE PLUS ALL THE OLD FAVOURITES! WITH A NEW ALBUM DUE TO BE RELEASED NEXT YEAR THE METAL GODS ARE PREPARING TO TOUR THE PLANET ONCE MORE - HEAVY METAL AT ITS BEST COMPLETE WITH LASERS, LIGHTS, BIKES AND HELLFIRE!! IT'S A SHOW NOT TO BE MISSED!!" For more information visit www.judaspriest.com. EMBRACE THE SUN - LION MUSIC JAPAN BENEFIT ALBUM ARTWORK UNVEILED: Lion Music are proud to unveil the cover artwork for "Embrace The Sun", our benefit album from which all artist royalties and label profits shall be donated to the Red Cross benefit for the victims of the March 2011 Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan. The album artwork (and inlay) has been produced by long-time Lion Music associate Carl-Andre Beckston (Monowasp). "Embrace The Sun" will feature only previously unreleased and in many cases new songs recorded exclusively for this special album from many acts on the Lion Music roster as well as some special surprises. Full artist involvement and track listing will be confirmed soon. "Embrace The Sun" is set for release on June 17. Join the albums special Facebook page at www.facebook.com/lionmusicjapanbenefit.   RICHARD MARX CAREER RETROSPECTIVE DUE: Richard Marx is teaming up with Walmart for an exclusive release next month. The singer/songwriter is putting out a three-CD collection called Stories to Tell, which consists of two discs' worth of greatest hits -- both studio versions and acoustic versions -- plus a DVD recorded live in London at a recent concert. Among the songs you'll find in the package are "Right Here Waiting," "Should've Known Better," "Satisfied," "Endless Summer Nights" and "Hazard," as well as his own interpretation of "This I Promise You," the hit he wrote for 'N Sync. Also included is Richard's new single, "When You Loved Me," which will hit iTunes April 26th. MRX HAS BEEN UPDATED AGAIN: MRX has been updated for the second time this week. No update tomorrow due to Easter break. The following new features have been added today - - Bon Jovi - Live - Seoul, Korea, 10th May 1995 - Rush - Live, USA - First Night - March 30, 2011 - Feature Album - Streetheart - Buried Treasure Join MRX now - never ever cheaper for folks outside the USA due to exchange rates. Help support MelodicRock.com. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED AGAIN: CD Showcase has been updated with previews of the following upcoming AOR Heaven releases - After Hours & Big Life (April 29 release) and Williams Friestedt & Elevener (May 27 release). Check them out now. MEGA-AUCTION: I am continuing to work on listing everything for the MelodicRock Mega-Auction. I hope to announce the launch of this any day now, so keep an eye on the site over the Easter break and please....all bids go towards helping MelodicRock.com continue onwards! The auction will run a strict 7 days only! An announcement will be made on the Newsdesk when the auction is live. Safe and happy Easter to all for the upcoming long weekend. News updates back on Tuesday. And hopefully some big MelodicRock Records news. I've been ready to launch details of the 2011 MRR year ahead a couple of times now, before something or other has gone wrong each time. Here's hoping there are no further disruptions!

 

 

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

AOR HEAVEN REVEAL THEIR JUNE RELEASES REECE-KRONLUND AND DAVID MARK PEARCE: AOR Heaven will release two Hard Rock/Melodic Rock highlights on June 24. Reece-Kronlund is the new project of singer David Reece (ex-Accept, Bangalore Choir) and Swedish guitarist/producer Martin Kronlund (Gypsy Rose, Dogface). Their first album Solid offers a fine mix of Hard Rock and Melodic Metal and includes a high toned companionship of musician guests playing musically and also co-writing songs on the album, i.e. on 'My Angel Wears White' (Tommy Denander), 'Edge of Heaven' (Andy Susemihl), 'Samurai' (Rikard Quist) 'Could This Be Madness' (Brynn Arens) and 'Animals and Cannibals' (Christian Tolle). The drums are played by Hans in't Zandt. Tracklist: 1. My Angel Wears White, 2. Samurai, 3. Could This Be Madness, 4. Animals And Cannibals, 5. Remember You, 6. Paint The Mirror Black, 7. I Would, 8. Edge Of Heaven, 9. Magic Puddin', 10. The Dead Shall Walk The Earth. Soundfiles in advance: Could This Be Madness / My Angel Wears White / Samurai. WebLink: www.reeceworld.com.   xx David Mark Pearce is a guitarist, songwriter, sound engineer and producer from Cornwall, UK. He's most known for his work with YES keyboard player Oliver Wakeman and his contribution to Arjen Lucassen's Stream Of Passion. Pearce on his first solo album offers a fine mix of Melodic Rock and soft Prog Rock. The band on StrangeAng3ls features Göran Edman (ex-Yngwie Malmsteen, John Norum) and John Payne (Asia) on vocals, Lisa LaRue on keyboards; C S Brown (Ghost Circus) on bass; and Mikael Wikman (ex- Vindictiv) on drums, with a special guest appearance by Yes keyboard player – Oliver Wakeman! Track list: Ang3ls (Help Us), Alone I Cry, Shelter Me From The Rain, Tell Me Why, Every Time It Rains (Instrumental), StrangeAng3ls, To Live Again, Save Your Prayers, Eden Is Burning, So Far From Heaven. Sound files in advance: Shelter Me From The Rain / Tell Me Why / Alone I Cry. WebLinks: www.davidmarkpearce.com.   xx AOR HEAVEN SIGN MARK SPIRO AND MATTI ALFONZETTI FOR NEW ALBUMS: AOR Heaven with Mark Spiro and Matti Alfonzetti added two more excellent Melodic Rock artists to their roster. Mark Spiro comments his soon to be completed new album: "It is all about my rebellion and redemption. My hope is that you'll of a life lived hard. Love lost and found. Lyrics are everything to me. I long for that feeling where just the right word hits just the right chord and everything makes perfect sense for a brief moment. It going to crank and it's going to kill....This the best I have to give.....coming soon!" SPIRO previously has released a couple of successful Melodic Rock and singer/song-writer solo albums and also worked as song-writer for other artists including Giant and John Waite. WebLink: www.myspace.com/markspiro. Matti Alfonzetti is one of Sweden's finest Hard Rock singers and most known for his work with BAM BAM BOYS, JAGGED EDGE, ROAD TO RUIN and as a solo artist. He says: "Picking up from my first solo album ("Alfonzetti") I wanted to take the AOR/classic hard rock into this decade with songwriting and sounds of classic rock albums of the 80s and 90s. I have been writing song for this for some time and it feels great to finally be able to record this album! Collaborating with drummer/producer Daniel Flores and some excellent solo guitarists such as Marcus Jidell (Royal Hunt, Evergrey, etc)and Emil Fredhol(Plankton) to name a few, I hope this will be a very exciting album for all classic rock fans out there!" WebLink: www.facebook.com/matti.alfonzetti. CLASSIC ROCK PRESENTS AOR - ISSUE 2 DUE MAY 6: Classic Rock Presents AOR Issue 2, onsale May 6. Pre-orders available now. Among the top stuff in AOR issue # 2: * Cover story: the epic, chaotic, multi-platinum tale of Toto, the band who invented AOR. * Features on Houston, Mr. Big, The Babys, Roxette, FM, King Kobra, Moritz, Ten and more. * Interview with Journey guitarist Neal Schon, a review of the band's new album, "Eclipse", and a major live review of Journey and Night Ranger from Las Vegas. * An exhaustive A To Z Of AOR, covering everyone from Alexa Anastasia to Richie Zito. * The phenomenon known as Yacht Rock, featuring interviews with Christopher Cross and Kenny Loggins! * A celebration of the 35th anniversaries of two key albums: Blue Öyster Cult's "Agents Of Fortune" and Peter Frampton's "Frampton Comes Alive!" The second edition of AOR also comes with a sensational free 15-track CD, titled "Lovin' Every Minute Of It". Among the tracks on the CD are an exclusive, never-before-released live version of Toto's "Pamela", plus a brand-new studio song from Journey called "City Of Hope". Classic Rock Presents AOR issue No. 2 goes on sale on May 6. But you can pre-order your copy today – with free UK delivery! Go here for the full pre-order details: www.classicrockmagazine.com/news/pre-order-your-copy-of-aor-mag-issue-tw... In depth preview - * Roxette - After 25 years and with 70 million albums sold, the Swedish popstrels are back with a new album, Charm School. It's a record that many feared they would never make after singer Marie Fredriksson, in the autumn of 2002, was diagnosed with a brain tumour… * Peter Frampton - Thirty-five years after the release of the zillion-selling Frampton Comes Alive! album, we celebrate Peter's remarkable career. His hits Show Me The Way, Baby I Love Your Way, Do You Feel Like We Do and I'm In You remain staples on classic-rock radio to this day. * Yacht Rock - Yacht Rock is an online video series following the fictionalised lives and careers of American soft rock stars of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Now, unbelievably, it's become a music genre in its own right! We talk to Yacht Rock's leading lights, including Christopher 'Ride Like The Wind' Cross… * Houston Exclusive interview with AOR's hottest new band. * Mr. Big - It's no secret that the 1980s was a particularly fertile decade for rock music, but even in that world of plenty we all sat up and took notice when Mr Big appeared on the scene. Now they're back with a new album, What If…, and they're playing this summer's Download festival. * The Babys - John 'Missing You' Waite remembers the band that sent him on the path to fame and fortune. * Desmond Child & Rouge - Desmond Child has written hit songs for Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, Kiss, Kelly Clarkson, Cher, Alice Cooper and more. Here's the story of his own band. Other Featured Artists including: • Black 'N Blue • King Kobra • Uriah Heep • Tokyo Blade • Shadowman • Survivor • Starcastle • Pride • Europe • Journey • Night Ranger • Styx • John Parr • Miss Behaviour • Bad City • Vega.   AOR HEAVEN CLASSIX - JEFF PARIS: The seventh release of the AOR Heaven Classix series is available now - it's the much sought after fifth solo album from AOR icon Jeff Paris entitled Freak Flag, which was initially released in Japan only in 1998. With the guest vocalists Juno Roxas (Roxus), Derek Davis (Babylon A.D.), Rick 'Moon' Calhoun (Michael Thompson Band) and Neville MacDonald (SKIN) it pretty much follows the classic AOR style of his early crackers such as Wired Up. As usual digitally remastered by Chris Lyne and containing liner notes by Dave Reynolds, it also contains the previously unreleased bonus track "Hygiene". Following next in the AOR Heaven Classix series are two real AOR crackers - Tour De Force's "World On Fire" (Japanese version incl. the amazing bonus track "Tonight") due late May, and the mega classic Fortune album (pre-Harlan Cage) due late June. All AOR Heaven Classix releases are strictly limited to 1,000 copies and available only via www.aorheaven.com and some connected retailers.   3 DOORS DOWN TO RELEASE TIME OF MY LIFE JULY 19: American Rock Band 3 Doors Down have announced that their much anticipated 5th studio album, Time of My Life (Universal Republic), will be released July 19. Recorded in Los Angeles, with Grammy-nominated producer Howard Benson (Daughtry, Flyleaf, Hoobastank, Three Days Grace) this album shows a clear evolution in 3 Doors Down while maintaining their unmistakable hit-making sound. "We went into the studio with a goal in mind: we wanted to make a record this time that could really take us up a couple of notches," said front man Brad Arnold. This is evident from the albums first single, "When You're Young." The track debuted at #1 on the iTunes Rock singles chart and is currently climbing the Active Rock, Mainstream Rock and Alternative charts. The video for the single premiered last week on AOL and can be viewed on the band's YouTube page. Fans heard a sneak peak of the fast-paced title track, "Time of My Life," during NHL All Star Weekend where the song was used extensively in highlight reels. The band will play a handful of dates stateside before heading to Europe for a summer tour. For more information and tour dates check out www.3doorsdown.com. Time Of My Life Track Listing: 1. Time Of My Life 2. When You're Young 3. Round and Round 4. Heaven 5. Race For The Sun 6. Back To Me 7. Every Time You Go 8. What's Left 9. On The Run 10. She Is Love 11. My Way 12. Believer. SQUARE ONE ­ WRITING FOR NEW ALBUM: Australian melodic rockers Square One have began writing the long overdue follow up to their debut album Supersonic. Vocalist Jason Old and guitarist Steve Janevski have already penned more than 15 demo tracks and will begin recording proper in the coming months. Square One received great reviews for their debut cd in Japan's Burnn! Magazine giving the album 82 out of 100 and Andrew at melodicrock.com voting Supersonic as fourth best debut album in the 2006 melodicrock.com awards. Square One has recently set up a band Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Square-One/203599479662806 and samples of the debut can be heard at their MySpace page at www.myspace.com/squareone. BLACK MAJESTY FEATURED ON GUITAR GODS & MASTERPIECES TV SHOW: Black Majesty guitarist's Hanny and Stevie were recently featured on Australia's Guitar Gods & Masterpieces TV Show show. Checkout the following links for solo exerpts from the song Far Beyond and Dragon Reborn. Black Majesty's latest album In Your Honour was released through Limb Music and the bands next live show will be in their hometown at Metal Central in Richmond, Victoria, Australia on Friday 3rd of June 2011. YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=3OmiOhnhNFM&feature=related / www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yPROG7TrXI. DUFF MCKAGAN ON CELEBRITY REHAB: "THERE'S A REASON IT'S ANONYMOUS.": Duff McKagan is best known as the bassist and founding member of Guns N' Roses. He is also a founding member of Velvet Revolver. McKagan has sold more than 100 million records worldwide, won a Grammy and an American Music Award. In 1999 the musician formed Loaded, which saw him move front and center on guitar and lead vocals. On Tuesday, April 19 Loaded released its second album The Taking, and in an interview with Sterling Whitaker of Examiner.com to promote the record, McKagan also spoke of his disdain for Celebrity Rehab, the popular reality TV show that portrays celebrities undergoing treatment for various forms of addiction. McKagan's former Guns N' Roses band mate Steven Adler appeared on the show, and when asked if he found that exploitative, the musician answered, "Yes. Absolutely. And the same with [Alice in Chains bassist] Mike Starr. I cringe, I think it's the worst thing for so-called sobriety. 'Hold on, we're having a breakthrough . . ..wait, we've gotta do makeup.' You know? "There's a reason it's anonymous, because if you fail, you're failing on camera," he noted. "You're failing after you've been on this rehab show." McKagan himself has gotten sober, and said that anonymity is crucial to success. "Somebody didn't just come up with it because it sounds good," he stated. "Anonymous, you don't have to succeed all the time. You can fail, and you can still come back and nobody's gonna judge you. I wouldn't have wanted to try and get sober in a public forum. I don't think it's right so . . . whatever. That's how I feel. It's not cool." The Taking is available now from Armoury Records and Eagle Rock Entertainment. SONISPHERE FESTIVAL FOR FRANCE: For the first time ever the Sonisphere Festival will take place in France on July 8th & 9th at the Snow Hall Park in the beautiful city of Amnaville, the perfect place for such big musical event : 326 km from Paris (FR), 330 km from Eindhoven (NL), 260 km from Brussels (BE), 179 from Strasbourg (FR), 49 km from Luxemburg (L), 476 from Lyon (FR), 320 km from Koln (GER) and 264 km from Frankfurt (GER). 2 days of music, 2 stages, over 20 bands including the Big Four: Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, Anthrax with Papa Roach, Volbeat, Diamond Head, Tarja, Mass Hysteria and Loudblast on Saturday July 9. Slipknot with Dream Theater, Airbourne, Mastodon, Gojira, Bring me the Horizon, Symfonia, Rise To Remain on Friday July 8th. A few more bands are still to be confirmed. On the top of this fantastic musical mayhem, the incredible site of the Snowhall Park (www.snowhall.fr) will offered to the public (under special Sonisphere rates) several extra musical activities including an unique indoor ski slope, a golf course, thermal baths, a drive in open air cinema theater as well as a large selection of excellent restaurants. Doors open: 12.00 noon, first show at 14.00. More info: www.facebook.com/sonispherefrance / www.sonispherefestivals.com / www.nousproductions.com / www.amneville.com. Prices: 2 days pass 110€ Friday, July 8 55,00€ Saturday, July 9 71,50 / Camping (open from July 7 at 19.00): 20,00€ (for 2 peoples), 30,00€ (for 4 peoples). Tickets available here: www.avosbillets.com. MELODIC BRIEFS: Furyon have released their debut video, which can now be seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8biW3IBqx8. Pleasing to see that recent mistakes in the Ozzy Osbourne legacy are to be corrected. Great to see these albums re-issued with the original bass and drum tracks which were recorded by Bob Daisley and Lee Kerslake reinstated: www.ozzy.com/us/news/definitive-editions-ozzy-osbournes-landmark-solo-albums-blizzard-ozz-diary-madman-restored-rema. 80's metal band Omen are ready to rock the masses once again and they're planning a new release called Hammer Damage scheduled for summer 2011 via DSN Music. Omen are very well known to the old school metal population for their creative lyrics and killer guitar riffs! Night Ranger guitarist Joel Hoekstra has a lesson/article in the May issue of Guitar Player magazine....On stands now. Stampede have revealed the promo video for the first single from their forthcoming new album 'A Sudden Impulse'. The single, entitled 'Having Fun' is out now and available to download from iTunes, Amazon and Play.com. View the video here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXNKlVjkUE0. Keep up with the latest Stampede news on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/stampederock. Hydrogyn's guitar player Jeff Westlake has a new pure Hard Rock side project called Ura Kia which is about to release its first effort. Jeff has added some tracks on Hydrogyn's website: www.hydrogyn.com. TONY MILLS DEDICATED TO TNT: Greece's Rockpages did an interview with Tony Mills from TNT regarding the band's new album "A Farewell To Arms" and his past with the 80s hard rock outfit Shy. Here's an excerpt where Mills excludes every possibility of working with Shy in the future: Rockpages.gr: Do you think that Shy will record another record or do you see your future linked with TNT? Tony Mills: No, I have permanently severed my ties with both SHY and the United Kingdom, so we wont be working together again. My future lies firmly with TNT and some side projects. Read The Full Interview On: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=5468&type=1&lang=EN. SPV SIGNS WORLDWIDE DEAL WITH SWEDISH METAL OUTFIT FULLFORCE - DEBUT ALBUM "ONE" OUT IN JUNE 2011: Fullforce was formed in 2009 and now consists of members Mike Andersson (Cloudscape, Vocals), Stefan Elmgren (ex Hammerfall, Guitars), Anders Johansson (Hammerfall, ex Yngwie J. Malmsteen, Drums), CJ Grimmark (ex Narnia, Guitars) and Tommy Larsson (ex Heed, Bass). The Swedish five-piece started to write songs in order to complete their debut album and they describe their music to be a genuine blend of traditional, catchy heavy metal to more updated melodic metal with some ethnic touches which will make them a standout to within the genre. The band truly believes in their music and in late 2010 they completed the recording of 12 songs to be included on "One". Please note: Fullforce is not intended to be a project! The band is aiming to do lots of live gigs and touring...it's a real band with the ambition to record more albums over the coming years! "After being in contact with a few interested labels during these last months, we are happy to announce the decision of becoming a part of the SPV family! SPV is a label with great Metal tradition and it's an honor for Fullforce to join forces with them for the release of our debut album "One". In SPV we see a good vision and a great future for Fullforce…this is the best thing that could have happened to us!" (Mike Andersson, Fullforce vocalist) "There are always reservations regarding bands with ex-members of well known bands but with FULLFORCE it´s different. I think that a lot of people will be very surprised when their hear the songs. It´s great to have the band on our roster and I´m sure that there is a bright future for the band." (Olly Hahn, A&R SPV Steamhammer). Fullforce - "One" Tracklisting: 1 Mythomaniac (4:02) 2 None Of Your Concern (3:35) 3 Heart And Soul (3:31) 4 Oblivion (4:53) 5 Open Your Eyes (4:25) 6 Rain (4:33) 7 Suffering In Silence (3:06) 8 Walls Of Secrets (4:33) 9 Father spirit (4:51) 10 Bleed (5:07) 11 Into The Cradle (5:01) iTunes Bonus Track: Best Of Times (3:49). The album "One" will be released through SPV / Steamhammer on June 20th in Germany, June 23rd in Europa and on June 28th in USA/Canada. WebLinks: www.fullforce.se / www.facebook.com/fullforcesweden / www.myspace.com/fullforcesweden / www.spv.de. GREG KIHN DELIVERS 3-DISC COLLECTION: Greg Kihn is proud to announce the release of a three-disc, all digital anthology box set, entitled Kihnplete (Post Beserkley Records). Kihnplete is a fascinating retrospective of Greg Kihn's vast body of work from the post Beserkley Records era, 1985 to the present. What most Rock Fans don't know is Greg Kihn recorded and performed with some of the best musicians over his illustrious 35-year career. Before breaking big with his own solo career, Joe Satriani was the Greg Kihn Band's lead guitarist during the Post Beserkley Records era 1985 to 1987. Fans of Satch, as he's affectionately referred to, will find eleven incredibly rare, hard-to-find studio and live tracks featuring the guitar prodigy. In addition, Greg has been the longest reigning #1 Classic Rock Radio morning man in San Jose for 16-years. As of January 2011, The Greg Kihn Morning Show began broadcasting out of downtown San Francisco on KFOX FM 102.1 San Francisco / 98.5 San Jose to the entire Bay Area region; the fourth largest radio market in the USA, reaching millions. Greg is quickly on the way to becoming the #1 morning man in the region on California's largest Classic Rock Super Station. KFOX now affords the celebrities visiting the City of San Francisco a massive audience in where they can promote their events and performances through live interviews with Greg. Greg is the author of four novels and one book of short stories, all of which will become available digitally for Kindle and iPad in the very near future. Greg has a screenplay in development for a new cable series about how the mafia ran the music industry in New York City during the early 1960's, described as a cross between "The Sopranos-Meets Almost Famous". The complete press release can be viewed at: x.co/Kihnplete.   INTRODUCING RILEY GRACE: Luthier Society would like to introduce you to Riley Grace, a 24-year-old up-and-coming singer/songwriter from Orange County, CA. Not afraid to openly express herself and open up her emotions for all to see, Riley is a new breed of storyteller. Over the years Riley's music has shaped and molded her into the artist she envisioned she could be, would be, and is. There is a consistent undertone of melancholy that reflects the depth of inspiration in Riley's life that can be heard on her debut single Wicked Ways. The lyrical content of the song offers perspective from a devil disguised as an angel who is tempting a young girl to travel down a dark path. Riley is an artist who is not afraid to confront the uncomfortable dispositions in life through her songwriting. In the track "Jimmy ", Riley tells the story about the rise and fall of a young man who came from nothing, has nothing, and is nothing. Knowing only the streets and living a life of crime, he's deemed a worthless human being by society who has paid no attention to him. When his choice of lifestyle leads to his ultimate demise, Riley takes the perspective of the man's only friend who saw the real side of him. The kind and loving person who was forced to do what he had to for survival in a cold world. Four tracks from Riley's upcoming album can be previewed on Riley's website and Facebook page, which can be found here: www.rileygrace.com and www.facebook.com/rileygracemusic. Riley Grace In Her Own Words: "Music... There's nothing in this world that allows me to release everything I feel into it like music does. It has no judgments or expectations of me, no hidden agendas, no unrealistic visions of who I'm supposed to be. Music lets me be myself with all my flaws and accepts me regardless. I don't have to hide anything from music - I can say anything about whatever I want. There are no boundaries or limits; music makes me feel liberated and free. My relationship with music is intimate; we are involved on a level that no one else can understand. I can share everything I feel with my music: my pain, my struggles, my triumphs, and my glory. Music is the reason I am able to be me. I've never been able to run to anything else when I've needed comfort, I can create a song when I don't want to face the world and I can cry to music when I'm afraid to show my tears, music is my escape. I wish I could make the world feel what I feel for music. I could try to explain in so many words on how it makes me feel, or how it governs my life, but I still don't think anyone would truly understand. That's the beauty of music for me, that it's individualized. No one can ever feel what I feel for music and no one will ever go where I go in my mind when I'm creating it. Every emotion inside of me is poured into my lyrics, the melodies are written with the sound of my soul, this makes every song a piece of me. My songs are the one thing I can call my own, the one thing no one can ever truly take from me. The ability to create music has a profound effect on me; I'm humbled to have the ability to do such a thing. I can't imagine being a part of anything else; my commitment to music is one that I could never summon for another. I want to be a part of something bigger than I am, something limitless and freeing. Music will never die and it will always be the voice that leads generations. One song could change your life; one musician can change the world. Music makes me feel like I can do and be anything. It gives me that moment to be free. My music and I, that's all there is. Everything else fades away."

 

 

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

MYSTERY TRACK TIME: Yes, the good old Mystery Track is back. Here's something to download and ponder - a nice 90 second preview of an AOR-tastic preview of a brand new album to be released shortly on Avenue Of Allies featuring a well respected vocalists, backed by a great cast of high profile musicians! Download now! Mystery Track, April 2011. DREAM THEATER OFFER AN EXCLUSIVE LOOK INTO SEARCH FOR A NEW DRUMMER: New York, NY: A little more than a month after original drummer Mike Portnoy's sudden departure from Dream Theater, the band held three days of auditions in New York City. Over an amazing and productive three-day period, the band played, jammed and spoke candidly with seven of the world's greatest drummers, learning about them musically, personally and professionally, and assessing the fit of each drummer's incredible chops with the band's trademark prog-rock sound. Dream Theater have been extremely sensitive to the fact that this is not only a monumental decision in their own lives, but also a critical moment in the lives of their fans around the world. "The departure of our lifelong bandmate and friend was an unexpected and truly heartbreaking blow," says guitarist John Petrucci. "The fact that as a result of that event we'd be introduced to seven infinitely capable and uniquely talented drummers was heartening." Dream Theater would like to share with its fans some of the intense process, along with the musical joy, that went into choosing a new drummer. So who is the best fit behind the kit? Go to Dream Theater's Facebook page on Thursday, April 21st at 11 AM to sign up for the mailing list and to receive more details about an exclusive and intimate look at the auditions, and to find out exactly when and how the momentous announcement about the band's new lineup will be made. Fans will be able to find out information about the band's upcoming 2011 World Tour via Facebook, as well. BCC ANNOUCNE TRACK LISTING: Black Country Communion, the Anglo-American classic rock group featuring blues rock guitarist/vocalist Joe Bonamassa, bassist/vocalist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Trapeze), drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin), and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater), has announced the track-listing for their highly anticipated second album. Produced by Kevin Shirley, the album, which is simply entitled 2, will be released in the U.K. on June 13th via Mascot Records, and June 14th in the U.S. on the J&R Adventures label. The album track listing is as follows: 1. The Outsider 2. Man In The Middle 3. I Can See Your Spirit 4. The Battle For Hadrian's Wall 5. Save Me 6. Cold 7. Smokestack Woman 8. Faithless 9. An Ordinary Son 10. Little Secret 11. Crossfire 12. Crawl. In July, Black Country Communion will embark on a UK tour that will take in concerts at Llandudno Cymru Arena (23rd July), London's High Voltage Festival (24th July), Leeds O2 Academy (26th July), Newcastle O2 Academy (27th July), Glasgow 02 Academy (29th July), and the Manchester Academy (30th July). 24 Hour Ticket Hotline: 0871 230 1101. Book Online: www.seetickets.com, www.thegigcartel.com. Glenn Hughes will be in London to publicise the forthcoming BCC album on Thursday April 14th and Friday April 15th. When the band performed in the heart of the Black Country at Wolverhmapton's Civic Hall in front of a 3,000 strong crowd on Dec. 29, 2010, the Birmingham Mail newspaper described the band's performance as "rip-roaring" and "breathtaking, while the Express & Star newspaper said, "From the moment Hughes' thunderous bass riff introduced 'Black Country' it was like a torch had been lit underneath the famous old venue, the ghosts of rock Christmases past roaring into the present!" Black Country Communion released its self-titled debut album in September 2010 to rave reviews. Mojo magazine gave the album four stars and Classic Rock magazine said it's "Possibly, the best hard rock album of 2010." Music Radar described it as "a potent and stomping collection of riff-heavy rockers that will undoubtedly stun listeners." During its first week of release in the UK, the album hit the #1 spot in the Official Top 40 Rock Album Chart, and also hit #13 in the Official Top 40 Album Chart and #2 in the UK's Official Top 40 Indie Album Chart. The album was voted #3 in Classic Rock magazine's "Critics Album of the Year" poll, while Planet Rock radio listeners crowned BCC as the Best New Band of 2010.   NEW EPIC FROM VAI TUNES: Steve Vai speaks: "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. About the Song 'Bodhi Tree' by Steve Vai - "Every now and then, I get a new piece of studio gear, plug my guitar through it, and see what I can conjure up. One day, I built this patch using an Eventide H300 Harmonizer. After playing through the sound for 10 seconds or so, I realized I should document what was flowing through my fingers and out of the amp. It was easy and enjoyable to just play simple stuff and have this wonderful flurry of shimmery overtones emanate from each note. I quickly built a little percussion track and just went for it. I wasn’t sure what I was going to play, but I knew it was all going to work. You just get that feeling, and you know you gotta act quickly. I was so looking forward to what the next few minutes were going to bring. I buried my head in the sound and slipped into a state of melodic meditation. I literally thought I played only for a few minutes, but it was more than nine! I thought that if I ever wanted to release this track, it would have to be edited. But the other day when looking for a VaiTunes selection, I came across this track and fell back in love with it. The track is close to 20 years old, and I had totally forgotten about it. I had listened back to it only once after I recorded it. Every time I tried to edit the track for this release, I felt as though I was cutting out a piece of its soul. In the end, I couldn't bring myself to shorten it, even though it was more than nine minutes long. What's retained here is the stream of consciousness I had at the time I recorded it, and this is how I thought it should stay. I also thought that anyone who's interested in this kind of track wouldn't mind its length. So here is that lonely, little song brushed off and brought back to life."   ALBUM ARTWORK BY RICHARD MACE: Richard at Sirius-B has created album artwork and promotional material for many bands including; Jeff Scott Soto, Journey, Queen, Giant, YOSO, Brian Howe, Blanc Faces, Primal Fear, Talisman, Lynch Mob, Soul SirkUS, Jimi Jamison, Two Fires, W.E.T., Melodic Rock, James Christian, RTZ, Vega and Black 'N Blue etc. "My artwork tends to have a corporate edge, as I specialize in branding and logos. It is essential that bands have a unique identity and don't get lost in their genre. It's not just about the album cover, but the whole corporate image!" ~ Richard Mace. Artwork can be broken down to simply a cover, or the whole CD packaging. I can also just create a new logo, if required. Sirius-B also design DVD artwork sleeves, inner booklet and disc graphics. "Richard is one of the best and talented artists on the music scene" Frontiers Records. In addition to this, please enquire if you require stage dressing, ie. backdrops, drum skin graphics, branded guitar plectrums and drum sticks. We also provide tour T-Shirts etc. and many merchandise items, including customized iPhone skins! Why not give us a try! WebLinks: www.Sirius-B.co.uk / www.Sirius-Skins.co.uk. NEW CD SHOWCASES: New CD Showcases online today - Warrant, Black N Blue (Frontiers Records, May 13 release); Rock For Japan (Charity album/AOR Heaven, April 29 release); Enbound, Lost In Thought (Inner Wound Records, April 29 release) and Faithsedge (Scarlet Records, April 19 release). Check out new Showcases. MEGA-AUCTION READY TO ROLL: Hi folks, MelodicRock.com is about to launch a mega auction of rare, signed and collectable items to raise much needed operating revenue for the site. I have pondered just which way to do this - via list and manual bids right here, via EBay or something else entirely. Due to the extreme difficulty in setting EBay preferences for the various shipping costs of all these items and the fact I wanted to get this done quickly - I have settled upon launching the auction right here - but via my own auction software platform. It is almost ready to roll...watch for it any day now. Questions? Email anytime.

 

 

Monday, April 18, 2011

BACK ON TRACK: Apologies for the inconsistent updates over the last few weeks. I had numerous computer issues involving both software and hardware - each problem occurring separately of course. But I have new software, a new OS (Win 7 Pro), a new main hard drive, new CPU fans and a new graphics card. That should put a stop to that! In the meantime things are in more of a mess than before, so I'll spend this week and the Easter weekend rearranging dates and projects and update you all ASAP about MRR, the MelRock Awards, the new site, auction and MRCD8. Any questions - drop me a line anytime. NEW FRONTIERS RECORDS PROMO: The new April promo spot from Frontiers Records can be viewed below. Releases are out this week and reviews will be online Thursday.   LION MUSIC CELEBRATE 300TH RELEASE: "Lion Music celebrates its 300th release with new offering from Lars Eric Mattsson in "Aurora Borealis" hitting the stores right now. We'd like to take some to thank everything that has helped to make Lion Music what it is today. Over the years we have worked with a lot of cool musicians and hopefully introduced a number to a greater audience worldwide. We've met a number of really nice people. Many of whom have all helped us reach this landmark release in these difficult times for the music industry without asking for anything in return, driven purely by a love of music. You people are the real stars and without you the progressive metal scene would be dead. Yes we are in a "difficult" time for the music industry. Our opinion on the current issues faced by music piracy has been well publicised, as have those of a number of our roster, but we are determined to see it through. So we'd like to give an extra special 'thank you' to anyone that has bought one of our releases or promoted us on various music forums and social networks worldwide. 300 releases in and we still have a hunger for more. Thank YOU!" ~ The Lion Music Team. Lars Eric Mattsson discusses "Aurora Borealis" track by track. Out today - order at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/auroraborealis.html. This new wholly instrumental 12 track release takes a fresh approach to the blend of guitar and orchestra for a musical experience as uplifting as seeing the wonder of the northern lights, from which the album gets its title. Whilst the combination of orchestra and guitar may have been done before by amongst others one of Mattsson's influences Uli Jon Roth; 'Aurora Borealis' takes the range of sound and expressions further that what has been heard before and places as much emphasis on each tracks backing as with its guitar work. The result is a highly captivating and listenable experience. Lush in textures and timbres, 'Aurora Borealis' comes across at times like a film score; sometimes fast and exotic whilst at others sweet and luxurious. Many moods are covered and all of which see Mattsson deliver impassioned guitar work in his own inimitable style. Rising: Perhaps one of the more 'ordinary' pieces, specially composed as an introduction with the purpose of delivering a high energy positive kick start. This is probably the most straight ahead rock piece of the album. Bounce: Heavily influenced by J S Bach's Brandenburg Concertos this piece's main theme is performed by the strings and woodwinds only in an interplay where the drums/bass/guitar section respond through a few different themes. I used the Stratocaster on this song. Cold Water Spirit: This song is dedicated to all the people who have drowned in cold water after ship accidents caused by bad weather, war etc. After seeing a film I started thinking about how terrible this must feel and that became the inspiration to this song. On of my favorites for sure, I think there is a certain feel in here that is very special. Forward Thinking: A simple pulsating groove and a haunting violin melody that could be done in a million of ways but very easy to get lost in. I did a few different versions of this one including a full metal version before I decided that less was more… I think this piece could fit very well as soundtrack to the right movie. Revolutionary Star: This was also done a few times in different versions before I decided on the final arrangement. This is one of the more complicated pieces with some odd meter riffs and some challenging arpeggios that spice up the harmony of main theme which I guess is quite fusion/prog influenced. I used the Valley Arts on this one. The Heart: Just some stings, brass, a flute and guitar and a melody I am very proud of. I played the Stratocaster on this one and it was actually the first piece that was completed. I think the title says it all. Eternal Cycles: A typical neoclassical piece in the style of my early works (The Exciter etc) with some updated ideas. Clear Skies: A simple major key theme in a number of variations spiced up with some two handed tapping I haven't used in years, A real trip down memory lane. Here is another example of a piece I reworked a couple of times before deciding that less was more, originally I had intended to use drums and bass all the way from the beginning but I think I found a more varied arrangement this way. This is actually a quite simple piece but that done not make it less good? Planetary Strength: The overture of prog metal meets symphonic rock. This is probably the most challenging pieces of 'Aurora Borealis', most of this is in 7/8 with some elements in 2/4 and 3/4 and includes some interesting harmonies and what I think is a very cool metal guitar riff and some more 2 handed finger tapping and a lot of call and response between various themes. Parisienne Etude: Just a solo nylon acoustic guitar piece. Midnight Sun: I think this is the piece that I put down the most time with, rearranging changing, moving stuff back and forth: I used the Valley arts on this one and there is quite a lot of 2 handed tapping here too. A lot of different influences have been melted into this piece… Starfall: The final piece bringing you the final peace. Just like 'The Heart': no drums, no bass, just the orchestra and my guitar. It feels very pure and simple, I love this one. Lion Music: www.lionmusic.com.   BULLETRAIN IS LOOKING FOR A NEW SINGER: Statement from Bulletrain: "We are truly sad to announce that our singer and dear friend Robert Lindell has decided to leave the band. Unfortunately, there isn't much more to say. It was a choice made by himself, he couldn't keep up the hard work there's to do for a band like ours. We feel it's a big loss for the rock scene and above all us, because Robert was a phenomenal singer and front man. Bulletrain will still keep up what we've always done because we love what we do. So Sweden's new rock sensation and hard working, hard rock act Bulletrain is in great need of a new front man! With the record deal around the corner and the demos written for the debut album, Bulletrain now stands without a singer. That's why we're looking for you with the killer voice, attitude and ambition to conquer the world! Together with no other than Mr. Chris Laney (CrashDïet, Candlemass, Dynazty, Crazy Lixx a.m) we'll record our debut in Polar Studios, Stockholm! Do you wanna be a part of this rock n rollercoaster? Do you think you're the real deal?! Send us a video clip or another recording with you singing, together with a picture and presentation to: Info@bulletrain.org. MELODIC BRIEFS: Symphony X + Amaranthe show in Tunis (March 26th 2011 / Venue la Coupole). Pictures: www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.10150176099608274.340576.389885408273 Credit : Yog Photography, and arrival at the airport: www.tixup.com/art-culture/4004-interviews-photos-de-larrivee-des-deux-groupes-symphony-x-et-amaranthe-a-laeroport-tunis-carthage.html. Word on the street is a big rock show is coming - Philadelphia Festival Pier Show (no date announced yet) - Cinderella, Mr Big, Extreme, Ratt. RE-INTRODUCING SANCHEZ: 7Hard & Sanchez (Sweden) are very glad to announce the release of their 3rd album Run the Streets at the 27 of May 2011 in Europe. Later this year comes the album with one bonus track in Japan and Brazil. Sanchez Statement: "With the signing to 7hard label (Germany), this will be a killer one for die diehards of Firehouse, Dokken and Mötley Crue. This time we will get released in Japan and Brazil later this year. So get out let`s go crazy and Run The Streets! Yours, Marc, Matt, Kieven and Jose." Sanchez - One of Sweden's finest melodic hard rock bands are back with a new melodic rock & rock n roll package. "Run The Streets" is about to take your speakers by storm, so Write down May 27 in your calendar! For all the die-hard fans of classic AOR/Glam/Hard Rock music. Sanchez are ready to rock the crowd and to seriously kick some butts. So check out Sanchez you won't regret it. Band: Jose Sanchez – Vocals (ex Empire Saint), Kieven Klevmyr – Guitars, Marc White – Bass, Mr. Drumhead – Drums. Tracks: 1. Stand Up (For Your Rights) 2. We Got Your Love 3. Run The Streets 4. Friends 5. Rock & Roll Stars 6. Bullet In Your Heart 7. Girls 8. Empty Words 9. Don't Wanna Get Around 10. The Gambler. Biography: Has been around in the music business Since late 80s. These guys have each one of them a history of playing live. Some of them have played as an opening act for band such as Dee snider, Paul di Anno, White Lion, The Poodles, Easy Action. Just to name a few and with major Swedish metal acts, even been on tour in South America. Jose Sanchez who have been singing since the early 80s. He has been around in a lot of bands such as: Fierce Conviction, Lies and Empire Saint. But hes heart has always been in the glam/hardrock and AOR music. This is for sure the kick ass live band you must see! Haven't been slapped in your face today? Then you definitely need your dose of Sanchez right now! For all the die-hard fans of classic AOR/Glam/Hard Rock music. Sanchez are ready to rock the crowd and to seriously kick some butts. They have already proved it with countless shows, that they are an energetic and devoted live act. Discography: 2011 Sanchez - Run The Streets (7Hard) 2009 Sanchez - Nightride (Blue Topaz Records) 2007 Sanchez - S/T (Artist Service). Web: www.myspace.com/sanchezkicks / www.rockngrowl.com / www.7hart.de.   JOHN WAITE PREPS FOR EUROPEAN TOUR: Some John Waite news from: johnwaitethegreatest.web-log.nl - Just before the start of the European Rough And Tumble Tour some posts and news. The tour starts off next Tuesday in Munich, and after this kick off 3 dates in Holland: Alkmaar, Uden and Kerkrade. After that off to the UK: Newcastle and Lancaster. John has a new Guitar Player for the USA Dates, Shaun Hague! But for Europe Kyle Cook will be in the band. Furthermore some posts and videos on Edmonds and The Bremerton, WA Show, with Shaun Haque, early April. And the beautiful videos for the show at the Pleasanton, CA Firehouse Arts Centre. And finally Ramona Main Stage, perfect videos. Links: johnwaitethegreatest.web-log.nl/johnwaitethegreatest/2011/04/edmonds-wa.html / johnwaitethegreatest.web-log.nl/johnwaitethegreatest/2011/04/bremerton-wa-and-first-pics-of-stve-hague.html / johnwaitethegreatest.web-log.nl/johnwaitethegreatest/2011/04/bremerton-wa-and-first-pics-of-stve-hague.html. SIN-ATRA UNDER THE MICROSCOPE: Producer/Musicians Bob Kulick and Brett Chassen featured in new The Right to Rock Podcast. TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest podcast (episode #118), featuring Tribute Record Experts Bob Kulick and Brett Chassen. Bob and Greg took time out of their busy schedule to discuss their latest concoction Sin-Atra. Bob and Brett also discuss the challenges in metal-lizing old blue eyes as well as a new project with Mr. Sister. Interview lasts approx. 25 min. Does Opera fit into the metal schematic? Can metalheads be sophisticated? Hell yes! It started with The Who and Queen and has been taken to a new level with bands like Savatage and Avantasia. Join Genghis and Ragman as they class this joint up by talking of the arts, metal style. G & R give you the best options for the more highbrow bands out there today. Next, the boys are joined by Producers/Musicians Bob Kulick and Brett Chassen for a one on one two as they discuss their latest tribute project, Sin-Atra, as well as what we can look forward to in the future. TRACKLISTING AND CONFIGURATIONS FOR THE NEW ALBUM REVEALED: Norwegian melodic metal outfit Pagan's Mind will release their new album "Heavenly Ecstasy" on May 20th in Germany, May 23rd in Europe and May 31st in USA/Canada through SPV / Steamhammer. The album will be released in 4 configurations: A limited edition digipak with 2 bonus tracks, 28 page booklet and poster - a double gatefold LP with 2 bonus tracks in orange coloured vinyl - as a standard jewel case version - download version. Tracklisting / Content: Limited Edition Digipak, 2 bonus tracks, poster: 01. Contact 0:48 02. Eyes Of Fire 5:48 03. Intermission 5:41 04. Into The Aftermath 5:18 05. Walk Away In Silence 5:08 06. Revelation To The End 8:32 07. Follow Your Way 5:18 08. Live Your Life Like A Dream 5:55 09. The Master`s Voice 5:16 10. Never Walk Alone 6:09 11. When Angels Unite 2:03 12. Create Your Destiny 5:49 (bonus track) 13. Power Of Mindscape 4:16 (bonus track). Jewel case version: (same track list), but for 10. When Angels Unite 2:03 11. Never Walk Alone 6:09. Double Gatefold LP, 2 bonus tracks, coloured orange vinyl: LP1 Side 1: 01. Contact 0:48 02. Eyes Of Fire 5:48 03. Intermission 5:41 04. Power Of Mindscape 4:16 (bonus track) Side 2: 01. Into The Aftermath 5:18 02. Walk Away In Silence 5:08 03. Follow Your Way 5:18. LP 2 Side 1: 01. Revelation To The End 8:32 02. When Angels Unite 2:03 03. Never Walk Alone 6:09 Side 2: 01. The Master`s Voice 5:16 02. Create Your Destiny 5:49 (bonus track) 03. Live Your Life Like A Dream 5:55. Pagan's Mind Live 2011 May 20 - London, Camden Underworld, UK May 21 - Manchester, Satan's Hollow, UK May 22 - Wakefield, The Snooty Fox, UK May 23 - Grimsby, Yarbirds, UK May 24 - Nottingham, Bensons, UK May 25 - Birmingham, The Roadhouse, UK May 26 - Zaandam, De Kade, NL May 27 - Uden, De Pul, NL May 28 - Dokkum, Dokk'em Open Air, NL May 29 - As, GC Drieschaar, BE July 7-10 - Kvinesdal, Norway Rock Festival, NO July 15 - Lichtenvoorde, Zwarte Cross, NL WebLink: www.pagansmind.com / www.spv.de.   MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new titles: - Peroux - Advanced Tape (5 Tracks) - Perfect Strangers - Demos (16 Tracks) - Power - Demos (16 Tracks) - Pretty Boy - Demos (US 89.Pre Mariah)(4 Tracks) MRX Membership Details

 

 

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

WHITESNAKE'S "FOREVERMORE" SLITHERS IN TO TOP 50 ALBUM CHARTS WORLDWIDE: Whitesnake's brand new album Forevermore released worldwide on Frontiers Records, has made its worldwide debut bowing in the Top 50 of multiple countries' album charts. In the United States, Forevermore comes in at #48 on the Billboard Top 200 Current Album chart and arrives even higher in numerous European countries. Forevermore charts at #6 in Sweden, #11 in Finland, #15 in the Czech Republic, #16 in Germany, #17 in Switzerland, #27 in Austria, #41 in Italy and #42 in both The Netherlands and Poland, respectively. Forevermore finds founder/singer/songwriter David Coverdale and company returning to their no-holds-barred, bluesiest, sexiest rock n' roll roots and is the band's 11th studio album. Forevermore was recorded, produced and mixed by Los Bros Brutalos (Coverdale, Doug Aldrich and Michael McIntyre). Whitesnake is David Coverdale (vocals), Doug Aldrich (guitars), Reb Beach (guitars), Michael Devin (bass) and Briian Tichy (drums). Formed in 1977, and steered by the legendary David Coverdale, Whitesnake carry a rightful reputation as one of the world's leading rock n' roll bands. Coverdale's blues roots, combined with a feral sense of rockin' and rollin', have consistently shaped the 'Snake's sound along with Coverdale's love and appreciation of impeccable musicianship.  Whitesnake's ascent to the very top of the rock n' roll heap was confirmed with 1987's self-titled mega-platinum album, which saw two massive Top 10 hits, two #1 singles with “Here I Go Again” and “Is This Love” and a virtual 24-hour domination of MTV around the world. For more information please visit: www.whitesnake.com / www.frontiers.it.   DEF LEPPARD DEBUT NEW STUDIO TRACK ON AIR: Def Leppard's Joe Elliott previewed the band's upcoming Mirrorball Live release on Planet Rock, with the new studio cut Undefeated and the live cut Rocket. Gotta say - the new Undefeated track sounds like a big bombastic rocker and I like the updated feel of it. Old, but new and fresh... Check out radio stream captures of both tracks at YouTube: Undefeated - www.youtube.com/watch?v=GaEOnFt0tx0 and Rocket - www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmJuFDYkmy4. FARCRY OPTIMISTIC FOR MAY RELEASE: Farcry has been working hard in the studio the last past year with label (Kivel Records) and Producer (Ty Sims) on their sophomore effort, Optimism. The band's debut, High Gear was going to be a hard act to follow, but the band felt that they were up to the challenge with the aptly titled second release. This album was a team effort of all involved and a labor of love. All good things come to those who wait, and the waiting is over! Ty Sims: "We made a really good Melodic rock Record here. I think the fans are going to like it. Adding to the mix is world renowned illustrator, Mike Mayhew. Who created the bands album cover painting. Mike has created some of the most exciting images in comics today, and has an impressive resume, with his work with Marvel, DC, Vamperella, Wizard, Fox Films, and Warner Brother Films' Superman Returns to name a few. Working with him was a pleasure and we couldn't be happier with the end result of our concept of Optimism." Farcry 'Optimism' will be released May 21, and will be celebrated at the bands CD release party which is an invite only event. If you wish to attend please email the band at farcryevents@gmail.co m - it will be a catered event with the band, music and an acoustic performance. Gifts, surprises and giveaways are included with the event ticket. You can Pre-order your copy now at www.kivelrecords.com. All pre orders will be shipped out no later than May 21. Pre-orders will include a signed band 8x10, and Album cover poster.   xx LION MUSIC ANNOUNCE BOREALIS: Pre-orders taken now (will not ship before 13th May 2011) at www.lionmusic.com/cd/fallfromgrace.htm Released 20th May 2011 With soaring vocals, lightning fast guitars and a rock solid backline, Borealis is bringing leather back and dragging power metal up with it. It's been that way from the start for these Canadian guys: all or nothing, and it shows in their music. Musically, Borealis leans towards the classic power metal sound; not too far removed from bands such as Evergrey or even Savatage in their prime. Also, the more progressive bands like Vanden Plas or Dream Theater occasionally spring to mind. It's all about energy, aggression, melodies and finesse - and Borealis has it all in spades. With an independently released debut "World Of Silence" safely in the bag, the band took it upon themselves to give ProgPower USA one heck of a kick-start when they visited the world famous festival in September 2010. With a 45 minute set comprised of songs from both the upcoming disc "Fall From Grace" as well as their debut, they made sure all 1,100 people in attendance would leave with a positive memory of Borealis. "Fall From Grace" sees Borealis take a heavier approach for their label debut along with a more mature and progressive spin put on the songs when compared to their first appearance, but the bands song writing process in which every idea is explored and considered has not changed. On the new material bassist Jamie Smith comments, "We feel that because of song writing process this is a very diverse, energetic album. Lyrically, a few avenues were explored for the album, taking a more 'real life' approach than was taken before. Again, a collaborative effort on the lyrics ensured that they fit the music perfectly and reflected every band member's tastes in their own way". Produced and mixed by Jodan Valeriote in Ontario, Canada and mastered by Tomas Johansson at the world famous Panic Room Studios in Sweden (known for a.o. Scar Symmetry, Warrior Soul, Miseration), this album is a sonic masterpiece. And topped by the fantastic artwork by Frank Fiedler, the entire package comes off as one of this year's most impressive power metal releases. Borealis' forthcoming offering "Fall From Grace" is sure to see the buzz generated by both their debut album and ProgPower USA performance continue, and will certainly reach a larger audience world-wide come 20th May 2011 on Lion Music. Track Listing: 01. Finest Hour 02. Words I Failed To Say 03. Fall From Grace 04. Where We Started 05. Breaking The Curse 06. Regeneration 07. Watch The World Collapse 08. Take You Over 09. Forgotten Forever. Band Line Up: Matt Marinelli – Vocals and Guitars, Ken Fobert – Guitars, Sean Werlick – Keyboard, Sean Dowell – Drums, Jamie Smith - Bass. WebLinks: www.borealismetal.com / www.facebook.com/borealisband.   REUNITED ALIEN FESTIVAL DATES: Swedish AOR classic Alien, reunited in the original line-up, are confirmed for several festivals in 2011. * Sweden Rock Festival, Sölvesborg Sweden, June 10th. Unplugged performance at Rockklassiker Stage. * Getaway Rock Festival, Gävle Sweden, July * Firefest 2011, Nottingham UK, Oct 23 Latest single Ready To Fly (Manora Records) for streaming/download at: alien.bandcamp.com / www.alientheband.com.   STRIKEFORCE FOR RIVERFEST: Strikeforce, Foghat and April Wine are the bands performing at this year's Blue Springs Riverfest in Bourbon, MO on Sat Sept 3. 3,000-5,000 people rocking on the river! Make your reservations now! Go to: www.floatbsr.com. JOHN TAGLIERI TOURS EUROPE PERFORMING FOR THE U.S. NAVY: (East Rutherford, NJ - 12 April 2011) Indie singer/songwriter/musician John Taglieri recently spent a week in March touring Europe at the invite of the US Navy. Taglieri performed for troops at Souda Bay Naval Station in Crete, Greece, at Naples Naval Station in Naples, Italy and at Sigonella Naval Base in Catania, Sicily. The shows were at on base pubs, and were high energy interactive performances, letting the troops forget where they were for a night and just have a taste of home brought their way. One group of sailors in Naples said "We felt like we were back home in our favorite bar on a Friday night just tearing it up with our friends." And that's what this trip was all about. Taglieri traveled through Amsterdam, Athens, Chania, Rome, Naples and Catania. performing a total of four shows during his visit, doing meet and greets, and radio and TV interviews on Armed Forces Entertainment along the way. It was a whirlwind week of non-stop traveling, and performing and as Taglieri puts it, "one of the most rewarding and amazing weeks of my life and career." Taglieri has done several Stateside shows for the military as well, performing at Norfolk Naval Base, Camp LeJeune, Fort Sam Houston, Fort Stewart and more. "No shows I do ever compare to the amazing vibe and energy of the shows for the military. They truly appreciate the shows and the time we take to go perform for them and I love these shows more than anything."

 

 

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

GOO GOO DOLLS CONFIRM TOUR DATES FOR SUMMER 2011: Goo Goo Dolls have extended their American tour with dates that will take the band across the U.S. through late August including cities that they have not played in some time. The band's current album, Something For The Rest Of Us, continues to garner global critical praise: “'Something For The Rest of Us' flows with emotional rock anthems" - USA Today “Anthemic rock really doesn't come much better than that of the Goo Goo Dolls. Twelve soaring radio anthems to make you smile” - Kerrang! (U.K.) “'Something For The Rest of Us' displays both emotional and musical heft and dynamic ebbs and flows” – Billboard More than ever, the songs of John Rzeznik seem to resonate deeply into the common consciousness of us all reflecting the universal emotional fallout of our times in song. It's no wonder the Goos have broken the record for The Most Top 10 or higher Hits in Radio History, per Billboard Magazine. Rzeznik, bassist Robby Takac, and drummer Mike Malinin are on the road now. Don't miss Goo Goo Dolls live this summer with Special Guests Michelle Branch and Parachute. Full date details plus ticket information at: www.googoodolls.com. HUMAN COMETH COMING THIS WEEK: Hard rock band Human Cometh´s epic new album HCII will be released on April 11th on CDBaby. It is yet another extraordinary collaboration between Swedish and American musicians just like the debut album Evolution, that reached over 2,000 downloads at www.humancometh.com. The new album contains 10 big rock tracks written by guitarist Morgan Pettersson and lead singer Kaj Roth, 1. Alone In The Dark 2. Red Balloon 3. Love Games 4. Hyperspace 5. Challenger Deep 6.Supervolcano 7. Ambassadeur Of Rock 8. The Fight Of The Skyscrapers 9. King Of Spades 10. Smash Crash. HCII is mixed and co-produced by legendary Dan Swanö with artwork by Anders Plassgård. Kaj Roth says: “we´re not gonna say the same old clichés that the new album is better and stronger than the first album, everybody says that. Let´s put it this way, the first album Evolution from 2010 was our baby. It has now grown up to be a man on HCII!” Stream the entire album at www.humancometh.com.   LENNY WOLF GETS A STIFFY AND BELITTLES 80s ROCK: Kingdom Come's mainman, Lenny Wolf talked to Greece's Rockpages about the band's latest record "Rendered Waters". Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr: In the new album, “Rendered Waters” we can listen to some remakes of some early Kingdom Come classics such as “The Wind”, “Should I”, “Pushing Hard” and others. There is an even a remake of the Stone Fury classic “Tear Down The Walls”. What was the idea behind those re-recordings? Lenny Wolf: Well, after thinking about this concept over, for the past 3 or 4 years, one of the things that stood out for me, in playing a lot of these songs live, was how different these songs sound now from the original versions. Some of the songs are slower and heavier and the guitar sound has changed the most I think from the earlier records. I think people's listening habits have changed a lot over the past few years. Some people like the older 80s versions and that's fine. For me personally when I listen to the 80's style guitar sounds (for the most part) I get a toothache. I wanted to be able to produce a record now in 2011 so when I put it on and listen to it in my car I get a stiffy. Also for our younger fans, and basically anyone who has seen the band live, or has been buying our past few albums, we wanted to give them a different take on some classic Kingdom Come tracks with this newer band. What's really the hardest part about re-recording older tracks is not to change the song so much that you don't recognize it at all or change the basic structure of it so it's completely ruined. This was much harder than writing the new tracks that appear on “Rendered Waters” by far. Rockpages.gr: There are also three new songs, “Blue Trees”, “Is It Fair Enough?” and “Don't Remember”. Were those written specifically for this project, or were they left over from an older recording session? Lenny Wolf: No, these songs were all written in 2010. I never have a plan to create anything new but when the inspiration strikes me, I write. I'm not a guy that listens to what everybody is doing now, or what's popular and use that as motivation to create new music. I don't think in terms of “maybe I should sound this way”. Writing songs is a very pure natural progression for me. I just create based on the events in the world around me. Basically, if anyone wants to find out anything about me, he only has to listen to my songs. They are the most brutal and honest statements about myself that I could possibly give you. I write out of the spirit of the moment. Those songs were written during a period in which I was jamming with Michael Schenker (Scorpions, UFO, MSG) and Herman Rarebell (Scorpions) in the UK preparing for a music convention in Frankfurt last year. The ideas and riffs for the new tracks stemmed from these jam sessions. I basically just finished them up in my studio when I returned and they did morph into the three new tracks on “Rendered Waters”. Read The Full Interview On: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=5437&type=1&lang=EN. REDEMPTION TO HEAD PROG POWER EUROPE: Redemption, the US progressive metal band featuring in its ranks legendary Fates Warning vocalist Ray Alder and guitarist/songwriter Nick van Dyk, has announced they will be headlining this year's edition of the "ProgPower Europe" festival and embarking upon a European mini-tour. "We are extremely excited for the opportunity to come to Europe and play for our fans" said Redemption's Nick van Dyk. "We are hard at work in preproduction on our upcoming release, This Mortal Coil, and we look forward to performing new music from it at these European shows." The twelfth installment of the famous ProgPower Europe festival will take place in Baarlo, Holland, October 1-2. More details can be found here: www.progpower.eu. Redemption will play the last show on this visit at the first edition of the newly founded Denmark Rock Festival on October 8th in Copenhagen, Denmark at the venue "The Rock". Check out an introductory clip for Redemption's appearance at this festival here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3IzRJCt7Vw or check out the festival's official website here for more details: www.denmarkrockfestival.dk. The mini-tour will see Redemption play a selected number of concerts across Europe, giving European fans a chance to finally see the band live (their only European show so far was 5 years ago at the Headway festival in Amsterdam, Holland) and of course to witness a live rendition of material from their acclaimed current studio album release "Snowfall On Judgment Day". Redemption's mini-tour is shaping up as follows: 1. Oct - London, UK, The Underworld / www.theunderworldcamden.co.uk 2. Oct - Baarlo, The Netherlands, Progpower Europe / www.progpower.eu 4. Oct - Pratteln, Switzerland, Galery Music Bar/Z-7 / www.z-7.ch 7. Oct - Essen, Germany, Turock / www.turock.de 8. Oct - Copenhagen, Denmark, Denmark Rock Festival / www.denmarkrockfestival.dk Direct support act on these shows will come from the Italian proggers Kingcrow, who released their fourth album "Phlegethon" through Scarlet Records last year. Please check Redemption's websites for updates on shows, price, ticket sale links, etc. www.redemptionweb.com. HEAVY METAL GREATS THE RODS RETURN AND CONFIRM EUROPEAN TOUR DATES WITH DIO DISCIPLES: One band that many veteran metal heads feel should have hit the big time was New York's The Rods. Comprised of members David "Rock" Feinstein (guitar/lead vocals), Garry Bordonaro (bass/vocals), and Carl Canedy (drums/vocals), The Rods would go on to open arena shows for such renowned groups as Iron Maiden, Twisted Sister, Judas Priest, Ozzy Osbourne (the 'Blizzard of Oz' tour), the Scorpions, Rainbow (Joe Lynn Turner era), and during the mid '80s, even had a then-unknown Metallica opening a headlining tour for them. Add to it the fact that Feinstein is the cousin of the late/great Ronnie James Dio (both played together in Elf) and Canedy is an acclaimed metal producer (having worked on classic early releases by Anthrax, Overkill, etc.), and it makes it even more baffling why The Rods never got their due. But this appears to changing quickly, as the trio has signed on with the Niji Entertainment Group, a label that was created by Ronnie James Dio and his wife/manager, Wendy Dio. The band's seventh release overall (and sixth release overall for Niji) is titled Vengeance, and will be released on May 24th, 2011. The release comes hot on the heels of Feinstein's recently-released solo album, 'Bitten by the Beast.' The first single off 'Vengeance' will be The Code, which features vocals from none other than Ronnie James Dio (one of the very last songs that Ronnie ever recorded, before his untimely death in May of 2010). As renowned Quiet Riot/Ozzy/Dio/Whitesnake/Blue Oyster Cult bassist Rudy Sarzo remembers, "The Rods opened up for Ozzy during the 1981 'Blizzard Of Oz' tour. I was blown away by their no holds barred metal onslaught performance and became an instant fan!" With a full US tour planned for the summer, fans will soon be able to experience the mighty metal of the Rods first hand themselves. 'Vengeance' Track Listing: 1. "Raise Some Hell 2. "I Just Wanna Rock" 3. "Rebels Highway" 4. "Ride Free Or Die" 5. "The Code" (Featuring Ronnie James Dio) 6. "Livin' Outside The Law" 7. "Let It Ripp" 8. "Fight Fire With Fire" 9. "Madman" 10. "Runnin Wild" 11. "Vengeance". The Rod's on tour with Dio Disciples in Europe 2011: Sat 6/11 East Midlands, UK Download Festival Sun 6/12 Newcastle, UK Academy Tue 6/14 Glasgow, Scotland Garage Wed 6/15 Wolverhampton, UK Sleigh Rooms Thu 6/16 Manchester, UK Academy 2 Fri 6/17 London, UK Islington Academy Sun 6/19 Uden, Netherlands De Pul Mon 6/20 Aschafensburg, Germany Colos Saal Tue 6/21 Hamburg, Germany Markthalle Wed 6/22 Berlin, Germany C Club Fri 6/24 Dessel, Belgium Graspop Sat 6/25 Bochum, Germany Matrix Mon 6/27 Vienna, Austria Szene Wien Tue 6/28 Lucerne, Switzerland Konzerthaus Schuur For more information, visit www.therods.com. DOOGIE WHITE MAKES GUEST APPEARANCE ON PARADISE INC. DEBUT ALBUM: Renowned Scottish singer Doogie White, who has worked with bands like Rainbow, Cornerstone, Yngwie Malmsteen, Midnight Blue and Praying Mantis, and is currently with Tank, will be a special guest on Paradise Inc.'s debut album, entitled Time. Doogie will duet with German singer Carsten "Lizard" Schulz (Evidence One, Midnite Club, Ex-Domain) on 'Not In Paradise', which closes the tracklist. Paradise Inc., featuring Brazilian musicians Rick A. (bass), Allan Juliano (drums), Marcos Peres and De Grigo (guitars), and singer Carsten "Lizard" Schulz, is putting finishing touches on the production of the album. Time is now in mixing stage, and the work is being done by Scottish composer and producer Paul Logue (Eden's Curse, Cry Havoc, David Readman). The album also features the Italian keyboard player Alessandro Del Vecchio, who has worked with Glenn Hughes, Edge Of Forever, Eden's Curse, Time Machine and Moonstone Project. Check out video of Doogie White talking about Paradise Inc.: www.youtube.com/watch?v=gghTsSSrSdM / www.paradiseinc.net . MELODIC REVOLUTION RECORDS RECORDING ARTIST, JOHN ORR FRANKLIN RELEASE'S NEW DIGITAL SINGLE: John Orr Franklin Press Release / "In an effort to take the first single "Alpha and Omega" to the next level, I brought on Gavin Harrison, drummer from the band Porcupine Tree, as a special guest on the song. Gavin is the drummer I had in mind when I was writing the demos for this album, so naturally the end result is a perfect fit that stays true to my original vision and then some. Nearing completion of his third full length album, John has begun releasing a series of digital singles to determine the best possible format and packaging for the new release. Ultimately, feedback from the fans will determine the final format for the album. The band would very much like to see the project fully realized on a double vinyl LP with professional cover artwork and digital downloads. The band plans to use the proceeds from sales of the album's first digital singles and they are also planning a fan-based fundraiser on Kickstarter.com in order to see this dream into reality. The new album entitled "Soldier On" is a science fiction based story that follows one soldier through his personal trials as he discovers his true identity within the grandeur of a universe that has suddenly gotten much smaller." "Alpha and Omega" is now available at many popular Digital Distributors; iTunes, Amazon, emusic, Zune, Napster, Bandcamp, Melodic Revolution Records and others. John Orr Franklin www.johnorrfranklin.com / Melodic Revolution Records: melodicrevolutionrecords.com.

 

 

Monday, April 11, 2011

DEF LEPPARD INVITES FANS TO MIRRORBALL RELEASE: Press Release - Def Leppard, Britain's greatest arena rock band, are set to release a brand new live album, Mirrorball, this summer featuring a mix of live Def Leppard classics (recorded throughout The Sparkle Lounge Tour), three brand new studio songs and a bonus DVD that contains energetic live performances and intimate backstage footage captured on the road. "Mirrorball" is Def Leppard's first ever live album and features rock classics such as "Animal", "Pour Some Sugar On Me", "Photograph", "Nine Lives" and "Rock Of Ages". The album also brings together three brand new studio tracks - "Undefeated", "Kings Of The World" and "It's All About Believin'" taking their place with ease within this classic setlist. Full tracklisting is as follows: Disc 1: 1. Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop) 2. Rocket 3. Animal 4. C'Mon C'Mon 5. Make Love Like A Man 6. Too Late For Love 7. Foolin' 8. Nine Lives 9. Love Bites 10. Rock On. Disc 2: 1. Two Steps Behind 2. Bringin' On The Heartbreak 3. Switch 625 4. Hysteria 5. Armageddon It 6. Photograph 7. Pour Some Sugar On Me 8. Rock Of Ages 9. Let's Get Rocked 10. Action 11. Bad Actress 12. Undefeated (new studio track) 13. Kings Of The World (new studio track) 14. It's All About Believin' (new studio track). "Mirrorball" will also be available online, marking the first time the band's music will officially be made available for digital purchase. Def Leppard will also be releasing their new community based website in May, which is being developed to be the ultimate Def Leppard fan experience and go- to destination for all things on the band. Also set for release this summer is Leppard's first coffee table book titled "Def Leppard - The Definitive Visual History", with exclusive photos by legendary rock photographer Ross Halfin. The book is released on the 1st June 2011. Def Leppard remain one of the world's biggest and most successful live acts. The band last played the UK and Eire in 2009 - headlining Download festival that year after a hugely successful sold out UK Arena tour in 2008. 2011 will see Def Leppard headline Download Festival for the second time in three years. The band will also play Arena shows in both Dublin and Belfast with legendary special guests Alice Cooper and Thin Lizzy. Full details below: Tues 7th June 2011 - The Odyssey Arena, Belfast, N. Ireland Wed 8th June 2011 - The O2, Dublin, Eire Fri 10th June 2011 - Download Festival, UK With more than 65 million albums sold worldwide and two prestigious Diamond Awards (Def Leppard are one of only five rock bands to have two consecutive 10 million plus selling albums in the U.S. - the others are The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and Van Halen) to their credit, Def Leppard - Joe Elliott (vocals), Phil Collen (guitar), Rick "Sav" Savage (bass), Vivian Campbell (guitar) and Rick Allen (drums) - continue to be one of the most important forces in rock music. Over the course of their career, the band has produced a series of classic ground breaking albums that set the bar for generations of music fans and artists alike. The group's spectacular live shows, filled with powerful melodic rock anthems, continue to sell out venues worldwide. Their epic live show and arsenal of hits have become synonymous with their name, leading Def Leppard to be heralded as an institution in both the music and touring industry. "Mirrorball" will be released through Bludgeon Riffola/Mailboat Records. For dates, see below: Germany / Switzerland / Austria - June 3 UK & Europe - June 6 North America - coming this summer, exact date to be announced.   STYX AND YES CO-HEADLINING "PROGRESSIVE U.S. TOUR" SET TO KICK OFF JULY 4: Multi-platinum rock band Styx joins forces with the world's most quintessential prog-rock band Yes for a summer tour extravaganza. These two monster rock bands will embark on the 22-city "Progressive U.S. Tour" starting July 4th and concluding August 3rd in Mountain View, CA. Tickets will go on sale starting the weekend of April 8. 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 Panozzo­has an unmistakable sound all their own, and they continue to prove that they're one of the hardest working bands in the music world thanks to a vigorous tour schedule that keeps them constantly on the road all across the globe. Yes – The Legendary, Grammy® Award winning prog-rock band that has defined many a generation -- will be on tour in support of their new album Fly From Here on Frontiers Records releasing July 12. Yes features a lineup of guitarist Steve Howe, bassist Chris Squire, drummer Alan White, and lead singer Benoit David. Yes will be reuniting with keyboard player Geoff Downes for this tour. "When I first heard Yes, I knew that the music world was forever changed," says Styx singer/guitarist Tommy Shaw. "They took progressive rock to a place that had never been expressed in such an impressive yet accessible way. Who among you didn't make it a point to learn the acoustic guitar intro to 'Roundabout?' We're very excited to tour with them for the very first time." "We are excited to have Styx on tour with us. I consider them to be in the vein of Yes and the cutting edge of prog-rock in America," says Yes founder/bassist Chris Squire. Styx is currently putting the finishing touches on Regeneration, Volume 2, the follow-up to 2010's seven-song EP, Regeneration, Volume 1, which contains 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." The track listing for Regeneration, Volume 2 is: "Renegade," "Blue Collar Man," "Too Much Time On My Hands," "Queen of Spades," "Coming Of Age" (Damn Yankees), "High Enough" (Damn Yankees), "Snowblind," "Miss America." Both volumes will be available for sale at every stop along the tour route. Fly From Here is the first album Yes has recorded for close to a decade and was produced by the legendary Trevor Horn in the spirit that Yes was founded. The return of Horn along with the Maestro's that make up Yes has brought back the fluid freedom that their music's ingenuity is best known for. Yes holds a shrewd insight and creative vision that challenges audiences as they stretch the boundaries of music. Yes' performance will feature the title track from their new album Fly From Here as well as the hugely successful and indelible catalogue of music from hit albums such as Drama, Fragile, Close To The Edge and 90125. Classics such as "Roundabout," a seminal hit which consistently appears on "the best songs of all-time" lists, and the group's #1 hit "Owner of a Lonely Heart" are sure to be featured for an evening of music not to be missed. 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. Throughout their illustrious career, they've performed more live shows since 1999 than all of the previous years of its career combined. Two Super-Bowl appearances, Pollstar box office chart-topping tours with Def Leppard, Journey, Boston, REO Speedwagon and Bad Company (to name only a few), two more studio albums and no end in sight, Styx continues to conquer the planet, one venue at a time. Yes' remarkable career has served to re-define the boundaries of rock for more than four decades, Yes has played the role as a dominant driving music force selling over 30 million albums, reaching platinum status multiple times worldwide. Their symphonic use of sound and innovative musical styles have made each of the group's player's a virtuoso in his own right. Tuesday, July 5 PNC Bank Arts Center Holmdel, NJ+ Thursday, July 7 CMAC Performing Arts Center Canandaigua, NY+ Friday, July 8 MGM Grand Theatre at Foxwoods Resort Mashantucket, CT* Saturday, July 9 Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion Gilford, NH* Monday, July 11 Nikon @ Jones Beach Theater Wantagh, NY+ Tuesday, July 12 Bethel Woods Center for the Arts Bethel, NY+ Thursday, July 14 Verizon Wireless Amp at Encore Park Alpharetta, GA* Friday, July 15 Amphitheater at the Wharf Orange Beach, AL+ Saturday, July 16 The Woods at Fontanel Nashville, TN* Monday, July 18 Starlight Theatre Kansas City, MO* Tuesday, July 19 Verizon Wireless Music Center Noblesville, IN* Wednesday, July 20 DTE Energy Music Theatre Clarkston, MI+ Friday, July 22 Winstar Casino Thackerville, OK+ Saturday, July 23 Zoo Amphitheatre Oklahoma City, OK* Sunday, July 24 Verizon Wireless Amphitheater Maryland Heights, MO* Tuesday, July 26 Red Rocks Amphitheatre Morrison, CO* Thursday, July 28 Eagle River Pavilion Boise, ID* Friday, July 29 Chateau Ste. Michelle Woodinville, WA+ Saturday, July 30 Maryhill Winery Goldendale, WA+ Tuesday, August 2 Greek Theatre Los Angeles, CA+ Wednesday, August 3 Shoreline Amphitheater Mountain View, CA* * Denotes Styx closes + Denotes Yes closes **Additional dates including details of July 4th kick-off to be announced.** For additional ticket information please visit: www.styxworld.com or www.yesworld.com. JANI LANE PLANS FUTURE PROJECTS: Jani Lane checks in with fans with this new update: "I hope you are all doing well... I will be back on the road by June. In the mean time I'm staying holed up in my studio writing for myself and other artists. I will be releasing a remastered and possibly rerecorded version of Jabberwocky by September. Tired of hearing basterdized versions floating all around the world... guess its time to put it out there properly. I'll also be releasing a 5-6 song EP on my new website www.janilane.net. This is, in my humble opinion, some of the best songs I've ever written (I'm not the only one who has said this)! I'm planning a Radio Head type experiment where I will make the entire download free, give you a chance to check it out and several ways to kick me back what you think its worth... or tell me it sucks and to go back to the drawing board! Hope you all have a great spring break and see you this summer!!" TED POLEY RELEASES HIS FIRST EXCLUSIVE DIGITAL SINGLE: Ted Poley states: "I am very proud to announce the release of my first exclusive "digital only" single Breathe. The song was originally recorded by Michelle Branch but I re-arranged it and produced it to be more of an AOR style rocker. Here is a link to the song: itunes.apple.com/us/album/breathe-single/id430894846. It is available NOW on US iTunes and within about a week it will be available Worldwide, fans will be able to buy it wherever they normally purchase their digital music downloads." Follow Ted at www.twitter.com/tedpoley. '80S ROCKERS BAND TOGETHER TO FUNDRAISE FOR JAPAN AT HARPER'S IN TARZANA ON APRIL 16: The original "We Are The World" and last year's "We Are The World 25 For Haiti" featured great artists raising money for important causes, but they failed to do one thing-really rock! No worries there with the '80s Rockers For Japan benefit Saturday, April 16 at Harper's in Tarzana. Organized by Terry Ilous (XYZ, Great White), the show will include members of some of the '80s most popular rock and metal bands. Ilous and Jeff Paris have also written a song and are creating a video that will feature many of the participating musicians. The song will be recorded, and the video shot live at the benefit. It will subsequently be available on iTunes. Proceeds from the event and sales of the track and video will be donated to the American Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami Relief efforts. "Japan has always been very supportive of our kind of music, and this is our small way of giving back," says Ilous. In addition to Ilous, performers who have committed to the show and recording/video project include Chris Slade (AC/DC/ The Firm), Rudy Sarzo (Whitesnake/Ozzy Osbourne/ Blue Oyster Cult), Brian Tichy (Whitesnake /Foreigner/Billy Idol), Richie Kotzen (Poison/Mr. Big), Juan Croucier (Ratt), Jon Levin (Dokken), John Payne (Asia), Teddy Zigzag (Guns N' Roses), James Lomenzo (Megadeth/Black Label Society), Marco Mendoza (Thin Lizzy/Whitesnake), Robin McAuley (Survivor /MSG), Simon Wright (Dio/AC/DC/UFO), Robert Sarzo (Hurricane) and Mitch Perry (MSG/Asia/Edgar Winter). Other vocalists contributing to the benefit song include Lita Ford, Don Dokken and Paul Shortino. The show will also feature guitarists Richie Kotzen (Mr. Big/Poison) and Michael Thompson, an American musician well known in Japan. Line6 will provide the backline and Spaun Drums will provide all drums. A live streaming broadcast will be done by Front Row Entertainment and viewers will be able to watch the event for free online; a link to the Red Cross will be provided and the musicians who are participating request that those watching make a small donation. New artists are being added to this roster daily, and Ilous promises one very big surprise, to be unveiled at the show. KISS NY/NJ EXPO BACK: After 3 long years, the NJ/NY KISS Expo has been recreated anew under new management with new promoters, new location, new guests and new ideas - Saturday May 14, 2011 Crowne Plaza Hotel 110 Davidson Ave Somerset, NJ 08873. Tickets on sale now. Kiss Merchandise Shopping - Wall to wall KISS stuff for sale - More tables than any other KISS Expo on the planet. We have made sure there will be a good mix of dealers offering Classic '70's Kiss merchandise along with dealers specializing in the new, current memorabilia. Every dealer will be a Kiss dealer - no filler! Family-friendly event. Bring the whole family, we will be offering many activities for the kids! Deluxe Hotel Accommodations - Discount rooms, restaurants, pool and plenty of space to comfortably hang out with your friends and family. Everything you want to know about the event is on www.njkissexpo.com. Dealer Tables are on sale now....check in with RossKoondel@yahoo.com. EX-FIFTH ANGEL SINGER BEGINS RECORDING NEW ALBUM: Vocalist/Guitarist Tim Branom (Fifth Angel, Branom, Cloud Nine) has started recording a new album in a Los Angeles studio. Branom was a forerunner of the Seattle metal scene when he sang with Gypsy Rose, which briefly contained future Alice In Chains members Jerry Cantrell and Mike Starr. After he moved to Los Angeles, he worked behind the scenes as a Producer and sometimes as a live musician for Carly Smithson (We Are The Fallen, American Idol) and as a studio musician for Travis Meeks (Days Of The New) for one album. “It's always a surprise to change direction”, Branom says, “but fans of bands like the Foo Fighters and Audioslave will love this stuff. I chose a studio with a 70's vibe and fat sounds. We started recording at Barry Paul Recording studios in North Hollywood. If only the walls could talk. It served as a rehearsal hall and home for some of the great California songwriters and bands of the mid-70's.” All the vocals, guitars, bass and keyboards will be produced and performed solely by Tim Branom. Drum tracks for over twenty songs have already been recorded utilizing veteran drummer Chris Ross (John Waite, Terry Reid, Mick Taylor, Stu Hamm, Jeff Pilson, Steve Lukather). One song also features a contribution from cellist Sarah O'Brien (Ozzy Osbourne, ELO). Sixteen songs will be chosen for the album, including such titles as “Four On The Floor”, “Bloody Mary”. “Upside / Down”, “Never Return”. “Follow You”. “Blind”. “Revolver”, “What If”. “Scum”, “Junk From Your Trunk”, “Xperiment”, “Enemy”, “Taxman”, ”Mystery Writer”, and “Buried Alive” (a bonus track previously released on iTunes). Branom explains, “I wrote all the songs except for 'Taxman', a Cheap Trick song off their first album, which I just had to have. Another song pays tribute to Seattle heroes Mike Starr and Layne Staley. And because of the state of the music industry, no one really knows what comes next. So I've decided to shoot a music video for every song.” You can hear demo versions of some songs on the official website: www.timbranom.com. Video clips of the sessions can be seen here: www.youtube.com/timbranom. LIBERTY N JUSTICE EP NOW A FULL LENGTH OPUS: Drum legend Carmine Appice (Vanilla Fudge, Rod Stewart, Ozzy Osbourne) has been added to the list of artists who appear on the limited-edition LP Chasing A Cure from the Christian rock band Liberty N Justice, due out on May 17. He guests on the track Ground Zero. The track listing for the EP is as follows: 01. Say Uncle - Paul Shortino (Quiet Riot, Rough Cut) Ron Keel (Keel) Eddie Ojeda (Twisted Sister) 02. Throwing Stones - Donnie Vie (Enuff Z Nuff) JK Northrup 03. Paige's Song - Philip Bardowell (Magdalen, Unruly Child, The Beach Boys) Tony Palacios (Guardian) 04. Playing God - Terry Ilous (XYZ) Jeff Paris Richard Kendrick (Near Life Experience) 05. Chasing A Cure - Benny Mardones John Pine Bill Leverty (Firehouse) Bonus tracks: 06. Black Or White (Michael Jackson cover) - Terry Ilous (XYZ) Alton Hood (D.O.C.) JK Northrup 07. Quicksand Jesus (Skid Row Cover) - Kelly Keeling (Baton Rouge) 08. Snake Eat Snake - David Raymond Reeves Don Webster (Neon Cross) 09. Butterface - Mark Allen Lanoue (Biloxi) Joshua Perahia (Joshua) 10. When Mullets Ruled The World - Philip Bardowell (Magdalen,Unruly Child, The Beach Boys) 11. Ground Zero - Kelly Keeling (Baton Rouge) Kerry Livgreen (Kansas/Protokaw) Carmine Appice 12. Eve (demo) - Tommy Denander 13. Damascus Road (demo) - Tommy Denander This CD will be available for a short time in a very limited quantity of only 500 copies. In addition, the first 100 pre-orders will receive an exclusive Liberty N Justice guitar pick. To pre-order the album go to roxxproductions.storenvy.com/products/63118-liberty-n-justice-chasing-a-cure-lp-limited-edition. Liberty N Justice is trying to create awareness of epilepsy and raise money for research to find a cure with this special release. The disease hits very close to home for Liberty N Justice mainman Justin Murr and his family. Justin's oldest daughter, Trinity Paige Murr, was diagnosed with epilepsy at age seven. For the past five years she has battled through daily medication, hospital stays, cluster seizures, induced comas, three weeks in the ICU — and finally even undergoing brain surgery. All of these artists donated their talent and time for this EP. The cover artwork was created and contributed by Rex Zachary and the CD layout and design will be contributed by Scott Waters. MELODIC BRIEFS: The Swedish melodic power metal band Enbound has posted the second part of their Studio diary at YouTube. The band's debut album "And She Says Gold" will be released in Japan on April 20th through Spiritual Beast and in Europe on April 29th through Inner Wound Recordings. Link to the video: youtu.be/9CVU9CCIy9o. For more information on Enbound, visit: www.enbound.com. RockEyez has posted a rare clip of Crunch from July 27, 2007 at the RockEyez summer bash. This was CRUNCH's debut show before they headed out to Firefest. RockEyez will be posting more clips each week that will include more Crunch, Ted Poley, Norway, Until Destiny (featuring Chandler Mogel (Outloud), Robert Katrikh (Voices of Extreme) and John Macaluso (Yngwie Malmsteen). www.rockeyez.com All video was shot by RockEyez & Staff... MetalSymphony.com has published an interview with the AOR stars FM, in relation to their upcoming reunion tour, introducing their brand new EP City Limits on several European cities, starting on the 16th April in Madrid. Interview available on: www.metalsymphony.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=5462. Black Sabbath - Born Again (Deluxe Edition) Tracklist (partial info) Disc 1: Trashed, Stonehenge, Disturbing The Priest, The Dark, Zero The Hero, Digital Bitch, Hot Line, Keep It Warm. Disc 2: 1. The Fallen, 2. Stonehenge, 3. Hot Line, 4. War Pigs (live), 5. Black Sabbath (live), 6. The Dark, 7. Zero The Hero, 8. Digital Bitch, 9. Iron Man (live), 10. Smoke On The Water (live), 11. Paranoid (live). John Waite setlist, Edmonds WA (USA), 4-9-2011: Change, Back On My Feet Again, In Dreams, If You Ever Get Lonely, Whenever You Come Around (Vince Gill cover), When I See You Smile, Bluebird Café, (Intermission), All Along The Watchtower (Jimi Hendrix cover), Better Off Gone, New York City Girl, Girl From The North Country, Downtown, Missing You, Isn't It Time, (Encore) Head First. Glenn Hughes sings for Japan: www.youtube.com/watch?v=47HJODUsuSg. FIREWIND´S DRUMMERS LOVE.MIGHT.KILL: "PRETTY LITTLE MESS" VIDEO/COVER-ARTWORK RELEASED: Pretty Little Mess, the first video from the German/Italian based melodic-metallers Love.Might.Kill can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RG9uqXm7JKM. The clip was shot in Germany in October 2010 and directed by Stefan Ellerhorst. The album artwork by Nikolas Fritz (Mob Rules) can also be viewed below. Love.Might.Kill recently inked a deal with Massacre Records. The worldwide release of their debut-album Brace For Impact is set to June, 17th. Commented drummer and producer Michael Ehré: "We are very happy and proud to announce our partnership with Massacre Records. Since I´ve been joining Metalium ten years ago I´m working with them and now we´re proud to be a part of the Massacre family with Love.Might.Kill!" Love.Might.Kill also posted an album-trailer for their upcoming release Brace For Impact. The trailer features scenes from their very first video and photo shooting along with a short interview with drummer/producer Michael Ehré (Firewind/Uli Jon Roth/Metalium). For further information please go to: www.lovemightkill.com.   RATT's STEPHEN PEARCY ANNOUNCES METAL IN AMERICA SUMMER TOUR 2011: Ratt's charismatic frontman Stephen Pearcy has announced that he will be hitting the road this June with the Metal In America tour including warm up dates throughout the month of April and May. Pearcy's touring band includes an impressive pedigree of rock alumni consisting of drummer Greg D' Angelo (ex-White Lion), guitarist Greg Walls (ex-Anthrax), bassist Mike Duda of W.A.S.P. and guitarist Erik Ferentinos of Antidivision (Top Fuel Records). The Metal In America tour is expected to run through end of summer and will include material from Ratt's deep catalog of classic rock anthems and Pearcy's impressive solo material. For tour date information visit www.stephen-pearcy.com. In other recent news, Pearcy will be teaming up with renowned New York City Chef Chris Santos, who is a judge on the Food Network's Chopped, to create his own BBQ Sauce and Hot Sauce for High River Sauces. Pearcy recently signed with the booking agency Popular Music fronted by music veteran Michael Rand. For further information visit www.stephen-pearcy.com / For further information about High River Sauces visit www.highriversauces.com / For further information about Popular Music visit www.popmusiclive.net. BEAUTIFUL BEAST "ADULT ORIENTED CANDY" - OUT NOW: It's 1989 again - at least for 46 minutes and 34 seconds. With his new band Beautiful Beast, German singer and guitarist Julian Angel has recorded a late-eighties styled album that features melodic hard rock, hair metal, AOR, glam and sleaze with a common denominator. "It's a party rock album with style" says Angel who made sure the music always meets 80s quality requirements such as catchy hooklines, big choirs, virtuoso guitar solos and thundering drums. After a few delays caused by illness and mixing engineer Rolf Munkes' (Empire, Tony Martin Band) full schedule Beautiful Beast's "Adult Oriented Candy" has finally been officially released on April 8, 2011 following an exciting release countdown on several social networks. While the band has recruited a few select music outlets by fans' demand for an exclusive pre-sale, the album is now available through well-known style-related online stores and download services. www.beautifulbeastrock.com.   MRX UPDATE: Friday's missed MRX update will be online tomorrow. Reviews and CD Showcases due this week as well as a long overdue MelodicRock Records update.

 

 

Wednesday, April 06, 2011

JOURNEY TO RELEASE FIRST SINGLE FROM THE FORTHCOMING ALBUM ECLIPSE: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the April 4th digital release of the new Journey single, City of Hope from the forthcoming album Eclipse. “City of Hope” will be available at all European online music stores. “City of Hope” is a “classic Journey style anthem”, writes melodicrock.com. Journey is currently touring Latin America in front of packed audiences. Following shows in Santiago, Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Lima and Caracas, Journey will play the following dates: April 7 Guatemala City, Guatemala - Mundo E April 9 Panama City, Panama - Centro Figali April 12 Mexico City, Mexico - Auditorio Nacional April 13 Monterrey, Mexico - Arena Monterrey “Eclipse” will be released on Scarecrow Records in Mexico, WET Music in Brazil and D.B.N. in the rest of Latin America. The first single from “Eclipse” in South America will be “Human Feel”, also available digitally from April 4th. Online stores carrying the new single include iTunes and Telcel in Mexico, Claro, Telefonica and Comcel in Colombia, and Porta in Ecuador. “Eclipse” will be released in Europe on May 27th, with the “Eclipse Tour” kicking off with major arena shows in the UK and Eire together with Foreigner and Styx (check local listings for lineups). The tour also visits Germany, Switzerland, Benelux, Scandinavia, France and – for the first time ever – Italy, before the North American tour which starts in mid-July. Since its formation in 1973, Journey has earned 19 Top 40 singles and 25 gold and platinum albums in the US alone. The band's “Greatest Hits” album is 15 times platinum, bringing Journey into the elite club of Diamond-certified album holders. “Revelation”, Journey's 2008 studio album, is the sixth album to reach double platinum worldwide. Journey (Neal Schon - lead guitar, Jonathan Cain - keyboards, Ross Valory – bass guitar, Deen Castronovo – drums and Arnel Pineda – lead vocals) have performed for over two million fans, and the Eclipse Tour will take them around the world well into 2012. For more information on Journey and complete tour details go to www.journeymusic.com.   xx TORE ST MOREN LAUNCHES FIRST SINGLE: Tore St Moren is well known for his work with bands such as JORN and ARCTURUS. About one year ago he started working on a project which has been a dream of his for many years – to write an album of instrumental music. While finishing the last stages of recording, he decided to release a few songs from the upcoming album. The first single, The Journey, was released on iTunes and Amazon in february. Michael McDowell, CEO in Shredguy Records, described Tore's playing like this: “…fitting shred in the context of a good melodic song and building until his flurry of tasty notes rips your face off. It's what I call shredding with class!” Benedicte's Song is a melodic ballad which illustrates the diversity of Tore's playing, and his ability as a highly competent songwriter. The song will be available on iTunes and Amazon this week.   EDDIE MONEY IN SPRING TRAINING: A news update from Eddie Money via his newsletter: "Hey Gang! I would like to thank all of you for downloading “One More Soldier Coming Home.” The song really means a lot to me and is my way of thanking the men and women who risk their lives while serving this country. I hope you like it. I'll soon be putting it for sale on my website, and I'll be donating all the proceeds to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund (www.fallenheroesfund.org). I also wanted to fill you all in on a few other exciting things that I have going on. As some of you may know, I'm a huge baseball fan. All the big-leaguers have spent the last couple months in spring training, getting ready for the new season. Well, I'm here to tell you that they're not the only ones who have been taking part in spring training. No, I'm not trying to make the big leagues, though I always did have a pretty good fastball! I'm talking about training to make my shows better than ever. It's really just a bunch of little things like eating better, exercising more, quitting smoking, and changing around the set list, but I think that they will add up to make a big difference. I hope you guys will agree and I can't wait to see you all out on the road!" SWEET SOUNDS MUSIC FESTIVAL: Press Release / "Sweet Sounds announce the Sweet Sounds Music Festival - "The Woodstock Of Rock" will take place at 21 Rock in St. Louis Missouri on Saturday, October 15th 2011. Indoor stage / 15 bands / Special Guests: Go to www.sweetsounds.us if your interested in playing - a few slots remaining!!.   MELODIC BRIEFS: A new Randy Jackson interview can be read at: jammagazineonline.com/mf201103-randy-jackson.aspx. And appearing live - Randy Jackson of Zebra with special guest Glen Burtnik - Thursday, April 14, 2011, Poor David's Pub, 1313 South Lamar St., Dallas, TX. A new Myland video clip for the song Shattered Dreams can be found online now at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNKk8iXVmqk. A few videos from the Jason Becker tribute that took place last Saturday night can be found at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=4th8H5_jNPY. Denmark Rock Festival proudly presents Redemption and Kingcrow for the festival in October: denmarkrockfestival.dk. STRANGE KARMA RELEASE HARD ROCKING DEBUT, 'VOLUME 1': There was a time when rock bands weren't so darn one-dimensional. Think back to the days of Led Zeppelin, Queen, etc., and it was a time that it was accepted for a hard rock-based band to be able to mix things up with piano ballads and other musical detours. The Australia quartet, Strange Karma, is a most-welcomed throwback to this aforementioned era, as evidenced throughout their new release, 'Volume 1' (issued via FNA Records ­ www.fnarecords.net). Comprised of brothers Martin Strange (singer) and Paul Strange (guitar), as well as Doe Prijono (bass), and Jason McDonald (drums), Strange Karma has just issued their kick ass debut, which runs the gamut from vintage hard rock anthems (the lead-off single/video, "America," and "Harder Than A Stone"), as well as more reflective material ("Time" and "Down and Out," the latter a track that won "Best Unsigned Act" at the 2010 UK MMA MP3 Awards). "13 days to record 3 years to release," says Martin Strange. "Our Music must be heard and our shows must be seen. We make our own dreams. Strange Karma ­ 'Volume 1'!" And unlike many other up-and-coming bands, Strange Karma is already a road-tested unit, having already performed extensively in their home country, as well as embarking on tours of both England and the US (including such Stateside hotspots as the Roxy, the Cat Club, and the Whisky A Go-Go). And if everything goes according to plan, Strange Karma will soon be performing the tunes off of 'Volume 1' on a concert stage in your hometown. Additionally, word of mouth is already strong surrounding Strange Karma, as their near 100,000 friends on MySpace can confirm, as well as over 200,000 plays for the band via their MySpace site. The band has already received coverage on such respected hard rock/heavy metal sites as Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles, and you will soon catch TV spots promoting the band on VH1 in the US. As Sally Steele from Vegas Rocks Magazine sums up about the band, "Every so often I come into contact with a band that stands above the others with a passion and drive that does not exist very often in this business. Such is the case with Strange Karma. It is rare that every member in a band is at the top of their game and shines like a star in their own special way but Strange Karma glows all the way in that respect. To view the "America" video, go here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyoKHTnN2z8&feature=channel_video_title. For more information, visit the following links: strangekarma.net / www.myspace.com/strangekarma / www.cdbaby.com/cd/strangekarma. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: New CD Showcases added today - Shadowman (Escape Music, April 22 release) and King Kobra, The Poodles & Uriah Heep (Frontiers Records, April 14 release). Check them out now.

 

 

Tuesday, April 05, 2011

MELODICROCK MEGA-AUCTION: The MelodicRock Mega-Auction will commence next week. A full list of items to be auctioned will be announced before hand. I'm giving any artists out there one last shout out to participate. I'm looking for something to auction you can't normally buy - an experience or rare/exclusive item - and the auction itself is to help raise operating revenue for MelodicRock.com. Please consider taking part. E-Mail me if you can help. SCOTT COLOMBUS PASSES AWAY: Condolences once again to family and fans of another rock star that has passed before their time. Manowar drummer Scott Colombus died last night, but so far there has been no information released on just what happened. R.I.P. Scott. APPICE BROTHERS IN DRUM WARS: Main Street Armory, 900 Main Street in Rochester, NY, will host the first Drum Wars Battle featuring legendary drummers Carmine and Vinny Appice on Friday, April 22nd. Brothers and "rivals" Carmine and Vinny Appice are set to battle it out by performing classic hard rock, pop and metal hits that were popular during their long drumming careers. Tickets are available through Ticketfly (www.ticketfly.com) for $15 advance and $20 the day of the show. For more info, visit www.rochestermainstreetarmory.com. To highlight the event, The House of Guitars is sponsoring a Drum Wars competition to give fledgeling cream of the crop musicians the opportunity to perform with the famous brothers at the Main Street Armory show on April 22nd. The House of Guitars, 645 Titus Ave. in Rochester, NY is accepting DVDs and video links from vocalists, bassists and guitarists until April 15th. For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=201108463233487. As a precursor to the Main Street Armory show, Drome Sound will sponsor a Drum Wars drum clinic featuring Carmine and Vinny Appice on Thursday, April 21st at Waters Edge Lighthouse, 2 Freeman's Bridge Road in Glenville, NY at 7PM. Tickets are $12 advance and $15 the day of the show. For more info, please visit www.dromesound.com. Legendary rock drummer Carmine Appice (Ozzy Osbourne, Rod Stewart, Vanilla Fudge, Jeff Beck, Guitar Zeus, King Kobra - to name a few) has enjoyed an amazing 30 year career as a rock star, music educator, and rock pioneer. He is widely considered to be one of the most accomplished showmen in rock and is the recipient of numerous awards including dozens of gold and platinum selling records. Carmine co-wrote such monster selling hits as "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy" and "Young Turks". He has broken new ground in very aspect of his career as a performer, as a teacher, and as a writer, and he continues to inspire drummers and listeners throughout the world with his originality and his unwavering dedication to the art of drumming. Vinny Appice has anchored the rhythm and power live and in the studio for the music of Dio, Black Sabbath, Heaven and Hell, WWIII, Axis, Rick Derringer, John Lennon, and more. He has recorded and co-written songs on over 25 albums and CDs including many multi-platinum records. Touring the world for over 2 decades resulted in selling millions of records! Vinny's drumming can also be heard on numerous movie soundtracks including "Wayne's World 2", "Heavy Metal", "Iron Eagle" and "Bedazzled". Vinny, the author of drum instruction book "Rock Steady" and DVD "Hard Rock Drumming Techniques" has performed incredible powerhouse drum clinics around the globe. Numerous books have been written about Black Sabbath and Dio with the authors always mentioned Vinny's unique powerful drumming style! "Vinny and Carmine break out the heavy artillery in this entertaining no-holds barred battle to the finish. Carmine and Vinny...Vinny and Carmine! Don't know which one comes first, which one had the moustache first, or which one has the best legs! However, they are both great artists in their own genre. Carmine's track record includes Vanilla Fudge, Cactus, B.B.A. (Beck, Bogart and Appice), and Rod Stewart, to name a few. Not bad! Vinny has driven John Lennon, Black Sabbath, Dio and Heaven & Hell. Not bad! From the initial downbeat of this sibling confrontation, this spectacle culminates in the final battle of Drum Wars. The Ultimate Battle both playing with great power, imagination and musically spirited. So now, Drum Wars - The Tour where Carmine and Vinny demonstrate their sensational playing abilities. It is comedy in that they leave Laurel and Hardy very secure! It is entertainment in that it is great fun. Sincere, open and honest. Both drummers play great solos and great ensemble work in their own inimitable style. Their years of experience are reflected in their ability to respond musically to each other. I personally am honored to have them both as friends and musical colleagues. May the musical battle continue!" - Vic Firth. WebLink: www.drumwars.com. TED POLEY TAKES ON EMPIRE ROCKFEST: Ted Poley and his solo band will perform at the Empire Rockfest in South Dakota on July 22nd along with Skid Row, Firehouse, Quiet Riot, Cinderella and more! MARC FARRANO & SECOND SIGHT: Faith Circus frontman Marc Farrano has once again teamed up with Italian rockers Second Sight! Last time was when he co-wrote and sang on two out of 5 tracks for the bands debut EP "Back On Earth" (Grayhound Records) released in 2008. These days he is already a couple of sessions into cutting vocals for what will be the band's first full length studio album (TBA). And like before the songs are all co-written by Farrano & Gianluca Festinese, Second Sight's bass player and founding member. Farrano's lifelong friend and former On The Rise member, Bennech Lyngboe, have also been brought on board to add some background vocals throughout the record, as well as taking the lead vocals on one track! Farrano also co-wrote the Main Attraction album (MTM Music) with Lyngboe back in 2006. So stay tuned for some high class melodic rock/AOR in the near future! JIZZY PEARL RE-RELEASES HIS THREE BOOKS: Jizzy Pearl, singer of L.A. Guns, Ratt & Love/Hate has re-released his three books on Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com -- "I've been recording and releasing music for the last 20 years but some of you might not know that I've also written three books. These books have been previously unavailable due to high cost of paper, the Hassle factor and my inclination towards laziness when not on the road. But no more. All three of my books are NOW available on Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com for immediate download, bigger, badder & weirder than ever!" Go to Jizzypearl.com or Amazon.com for download to e-reader, iPad, iPhone, Blackberry, Android, PC, anything---thank you!" TWISTED SISTER ALUMINI WORK FOR GREAT CAUSES: Twisted Sister's A.J. Pero announced as National Spokesperson for Fallen Blue / Fallen Blue was created as a means to provide support, both emotional and financial, for the families of police officers who are killed outside the line of duty. It is with great pride that we are honored to announce that A.J. Pero has become our National Spokesperson. Mr. Pero has spent his life entertaining rock music fans as the drummer for Twisted Sister. He has also dedicated his life to helping others less fortunate with his charity work. "My name is A.J. Pero and I play drums for the Heavy Metal Band, Twisted Sister. I have been asked by John and Rachael from Fallen Blue to be a part of the Brotherhood. I jumped at the opportunity. I have become the National Spokesperson for this non-profit organization called Fallen Blue. I am honored to be a part of this family, this vital organization. I will help out 150%, so we can achieve our goals. Our goals are to help the families of these brave men and women who die outside the line of duty. When a police officer is killed outside the line of duty - whether accidentally or by their own hand due to job related stress - they don't receive the benefits. Some families can't even afford to have a funeral, never mind future bills. I've experienced that years ago when a friend on the job, stressed out and emotionally fried, shot himself. Our neighbourhood stood together to help the wife and children. We had benefits and cookouts to raise money, but it just wasn't enough. This organization can and will become vital nationwide if we all recognize this is a reality and pull together our resources for all Law Enforcement Officers. Even though there are many different branches, we are all the same underneath and need to be treated as such. We would also like to eventually erect a physical Memorial where we can go and honor those killed outside the line of duty." Please join us in welcoming A.J. Pero to our cause, and check out fallenblue.org to keep up with our latest efforts to help serve those who protect us. The Pinkburst Project is dedicated to the research, education and support of those affected by Uveitis, the leading cause of blindness among American girls. Founded by Twisted Sister's Jay Jay French, the Pinkburst Project is also a collection of custom Gibson, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Paul Reed Smith, Roukangas and Martin guitar and custom Fender, Marshall, Vox, Mesa, Orange, Hartke and Diamond amplifiers built to raise awareness and ultimately fund ongoing research, education and support for The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation. Created by Twisted Sister's Jay Jay French, The Pinkburst Project custom collection of guitars and amplifiers (each item is one of a kind, built by the custom shops of their respective companies and will never be duplicated) will be offered for sale through Skinner Auctioneers Fine Musical Instruments Department on Sunday, May 1, 2011. Read The Latest Press Release Enter The Pinkburst Project www.pinkburstproject.org.

 

 

Monday, April 04, 2011

NEW RELEASE ROUND-UP: A major disappointment for fans of Tom Cochrane today. The star Canadian singer/songwriter hasn't recorded new material since his 2006 album No Stranger, but it was announced over the weekend a new single Voices At 4am would be released via iTunes April 24. However, that's it for new material in 2011. A Limited Edition 4 track EP will be released in September (500 units), to feature 3 unreleased tracks and the single new track Voices At 4am. Disappointing for fans of his (like me) that have been waiting for a strong studio album to follow up to No Stranger, which failed to impress a lot of long time fans. WebLink: www.tomcochranemusic.com. Tony Harnell is also releasing a new digital single - Take What You're Giving. The song is written by Tony and Stefan Altzar. Produced by Tony and Stefan and mixed and mastered by Bruno Ravel. It's available on itunes stores around the world! and will be released also on other online stores in the coming week. Here is the U.S. link to download: itunes.apple.com/us/artist/tony-harnell/id429712925. Larry Hoppen Singer/songwriter and frontman of Orleans has a new solo album out titled One Of The Lucky Ones. Larry states: "It features MANY friends from Woodstock NY, Ithaca NY, (blue) Florida, NashvilleTN and more: Tony Levin, Billy Squier, David Sancious, Bob Leinbach, Terry Silverlight, Randy Nichols, Charlie Morgan, Anne Lang and so on... the songs I wrote / co-wrote span 1982-2010. The album is not for 'conservatives', who won't like some of the lyrics (or the packaging). Just being "transparent". If you love good songs, good performances, melodies and intelligent lyrics, you'll love having this in your car / home CD player!" Purchase via: www.orleansonline.com/catalog/item/4824442/8655145.htm / itunes.apple.com/us/album/one-of-the-lucky-ones/id408685504.   xx RETROSPECT RECORDS - RELEASE UPDATE: Retrospect Records announces the following six-pack of new releases: Gunner 'Desire' Introducing brand new AOR / Hair Metal / Melodic Hard Rock sensations Gunner!! Certainly one of the best bands to ever emerge from Argentina , this quartet cites influences such as Whitesnake , Dokken , Motley Crue , Danger Danger and Firehouse and it's very evident by the quality of the songwriting that these guys are all about hooks and looks!! From driving hard rockers like 'Till I Reach The End' to the heartfelt ballad 'While Dreams Have Been Gone' , I believe all fans of 80s-style AOR / Melodic Hard Rock will place this release in their top ten of the year. Retrospect Records is very happy to have Gunner join the currently active roster of new up and coming artists like Wildstreet, The Glitter Boys and Pretty Little Suicide on the label. ENJOY!! Megaton Blonde 'Megaton Blonde' One of our most anticipated releases of 2011 is here! During the late 80's / early 90's there were 3 excellent bands that ruled the Milwaukee Hard Rock / Metal scene... Problem Child, Moxy Roxx and Megaton Blonde. Led by the powerful vocals of Morgan Thorn, who would later join Vicious Rumors, Morgan sounds like a mix of Bruce Dickinson , Geoff Tate and Mike Lee (Barren Cross). Combined with a wicked dual axe attack, pounding rhythm section including drummer Mike Stix (ex-Realm) and songs that pack a megaton punch , every fan and collector of Melodic 80s Metal should find this release a top-notch treasure. Some of these songs were produced by legendary Metal producer Eric "Griffy" Greif. Personally I believe Megaton Blonde is one of the best indie Metal releases Retrospect has ever unearthed (the first song alone 'Digital Doll' is one of the best songs I've ever heard) and will definitely appeal to fans of: Malice, early Queensryche, Iron Maiden, early Icon, Fifth Angel, Barren Cross, Vyper etc... Very classy stuff here and, of course, released for the first time ever on cd format! The Pact 'Rock The Nite' First time ever on cd for Boston-based Melodic Hard Rock / Melodic Metal act THE PACT. Formed in 1984, these recordings were all taken from sessions throughout the mid to late 80s. Powerful Hard Rock bordering on Commercial Metal that equates to another great find for collectors and fans of obscure 80s releases like Reckless 'No Frills' , Mass 'New Birth' , Metalwolf 'Down To The Wire' , Axtion 'Look Out For The Night' , Vyper 'Prepared To Strike' , Hyde 'Hyde' , Rock Candy 'Sucker For A Pretty Face' etc... MPG 'MPG' The wait is over!! After 30 years, this one and only album released by MPG has garnered quite a cult status amongst AOR and melodic pomp rock collectors and is regarded as one of the best of the genre -- and it finally sees an official release on the CD format!! With soaring vocals and stellar harmonies, incredible keyboard and guitar interplay and some of the best songs written in the early 1980's -- this should be high on your want list, if it hasn't been already! Produced by Tom Knox, best known for his extensive work with Toto. This silver pressed CD was remastered by guitarist David Mikeal himself in his top notch studio in Winter Park, Florida. It also includes 4 rare , previously unreleased high quality bonus demo tracks that were cut before MPG were signed in 1981. MPG's fantastic brand of melodic pomp rock / AOR has been compared to the likes of Face Dancer, New England, Styx, Toto, Boston, Kansas, Touch, etc.. Joined Forces 'Joined Forces' 80s Hard Rock / Hair Metal fans rejoice! We have found yet ANOTHER unreleased gem from the glory days! Hailing from Connecticut, Joined Forces formed in 1984 and by 1986 had made their big screen debut in the movie "Light Of Day" starring Michael J Fox and Joan Jett. The songs that appear on this cd were all recorded between 1986 & 1989 and were produced by none other than Paul Sabu , Jeff Cannata and James Christian (House of Lords). Ironically, following the break-up of Joined Forces in 1992, James Christian would recruit guitar wizard Jimi Bell to join House of Lords as a permanent member. Musically, Joined Forces have an undeniable Whitesnake vibe but I can also recommend this band to fans of: Y & T , Silent Rage , Rough Cutt and all fans of quality 80s Hard Rock. Essential! Orphann 'Up For Adoption' A highly sought after vinyl collectors gem onto CD format for the first time ever! This is Kansas City, Missouri-based Orphann's debut album originally privately released in 1977, digitally remastered and featuring bonus tracks from their even rarer 7" single-only releases! From start to finish, this is a pure 70's melodic rock buffet with flourishes of pomp rock and AOR!! Lots of awesome vocal harmonies (featuring lead vocalist Kevin Mellenbruch -- later of YLD) , fiery guitar solo's and a bombastic rhythm section. The songs and production are killer and will throw you right back to those glory days of the mid to late 1970's!! Highly recommended and a very worthy addition to your collection! In the past 6 years we have released over 500 albums, more than any other label in the world, and we thank everyone who has supported the bands and this amazing genre of music. We have many more releases yet to come in 2011. www.retrospectrecords.com. Retrospect Records is also very happy to announce that we will host our own stage for the 4th consecutive year at America's greatest Rock festival - Rocklahoma. Our roster includes 18 bands such as D'Molls, Wildstreet, Aska, Firstryke, Loveblast and many more. May 27-29 in Pryor, Oklahoma. Rock On!!   xxxx EMINEM LAWSUIT MAY RAISE PAY FOR OLDER ARTISTS: Ruth Fremson/The New York Times / "Many older artists, like Sam Moore, whose contracts predate the digital era, stand to receive larger payments because of the court's ruling. The artist at the center of the suit is Eminem, but some of the biggest beneficiaries of the case may be thousands of older artists who have not released an album in decades. Four years ago, the producers who discovered Eminem sued his record label, the Universal Music Group, over the way royalties are computed for digital music, which boils down to whether an individual song sold online should be considered a license or a sale. The difference is far from academic because, as with most artists, Eminem's contract stipulates that he gets 50 percent of the royalties for a license but only 12 percent for a sale." Full Article: www.nytimes.com/2011/03/28/business/media/28eminem.html?_r=1. MELODIC BRIEFS: Following new contributions from Paul Rodgers and Jimi Jamison, the Artists Support Japan website has now been officially opened at: www.artistssupportjapan.com. Any artists wishing to contribute to the site can contact me or find details at the website. From PJ Rautiainen's solo album Secret Isle comes the video for Falling For You: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ep1i_sge5OU. Ted Nugent's band has a new 'returning' rhythm guitar player - Derek St. Holmes. The line-up is now: 'Wild' Mick Brown, Greg Smith, Derek St.Holmes and Ted Nugent. Eddie Trunk's book release event was covered by Piercing Metal": piercingmetal.com/wordpress/?p=6375. ERIC JOHNSON'S LATEST RELEASE TO GET VINYL TREATMENT: Eric Johnson's latest release, 'Up Close,' was a long time in the making (five and a half years). But as evidenced by its reception (All Music Guide pointed out that "[Johnson] continues to find interesting ways to hone his specific craft on 'Up Close'") and its impressive list of special guests (Sonny Landreth, Steve Miller, Jimmie Vaughan, and Jonny Lang), the wait was well worth it. Fortunately, fans will not have to wait long at all for a vinyl version of 'Up Close,' which is slated for release on April 19th, via EMI Records and Vortexan Music. The album will be issued on 180 gram vinyl, and housed in a beautiful special double LP gatefold package with printed sleeves. Additionally, 'Up Close' was remastered specially for this vinyl release by Jim Wilson. Johnson has long been considered one of rock's most talented six-string players, as evidenced by his platinum-certified 1990 release, 'Ah Via Musicom," its hit single "Cliffs of Dover," as well as a Grammy Award win for "Best Rock Instrumental Performance" in 1991. Additionally, Johnson graced the cover of the March issue of Guitar Player Magazine, was recently named Guitar International's "Guitarist of the year," and won an unprecedented 33 awards at the Austin Music Awards since 1982, including taking home "Best Electric Guitar," "Best Acoustic Guitar," and "Best Instrumental Band" awards at this year's ceremony. For more information, visit: www.ericjohnson.com.

 

 

I am very excited to be able to bring you two extended previews of the upcoming Journey album Eclipse. Thanks to the band, management and Frontiers Records, samples of City Of Hope (edit clipped from the latter part of the track to include some Schon magic) and the alternative single Human Feel can be heard streaming via the Flash Player below. Enjoy!

 

 

ANOTHER CALL TO SUPPORT MELODICROCK.COM

Hi folks, once again I am putting up the donation button in hope that some of those that have not yet donated to the site, might be able to do so. The new MelodicRock.com site is well underway – the design is almost complete and I expect to start moving content over in the next week and learning how to drive the thing. The very latest design standards have been used, which means I have to upgrade my current server or move to an even higher end server before launch. Either way that means more added costs for me and that comes on top of more additional expenses last week in having to replace the old Noticeboard and my own hard drive meltdown. The new site launch date is yet to be determined, but it's getting close. Beta Testers will be advised next month of when that stage will commence. So, if you can contribute in any way – via donation or purchase from the MR Store, it will be enormously appreciate and help out the transition to a brand new MR site which is going to definitely kick ass. Thanks, Andrew.

 

 

Friday, April 01, 2011

YES ANNOUNCE: TREVOR HORN TO PRODUCE NEW ALBUM FLY FROM HERE: The world's most quintessential Prog Rock band Yes, announces today their highly anticipated new album Fly From Here. This marks the first album in ten years with legendary, 2-time Grammy Award winning producer, Trevor Horn. Horn and Yes bassist Chris Squire re-discovered the track Fly From Here which has never been recorded as a studio track. "Chris and I were talking one evening about a song 'Fly From Here' that we never recorded," explains Trevor Horn. "I said I was prepared to spend two weeks with 'Yes' recording that song. When I arrived in America to record it, I was taken prisoner by the band and only allowed my freedom again in return for producing the whole album. It was an offer I couldn't refuse!!!" Fly From Here encompasses Yes' signature brand of mysticism and grand-scale compositions. Maintaining a complex, symphonic sound that features the beautiful harmonies and strong heavy riffs they are known for. "The new album represents the best of Yes from the 70s and the 80's with a current twist," states Squire. Geoff Downes has also reunited with Yes to record Fly From Here, bringing Yes' classic symphonic sound with his strong style of playing. Downes had originally joined Yes and recorded the album Drama in 1980. Yes features a lineup of guitarist Steve Howe, bassist Chris Squire, drummer Alan White, and Geoff Downes on keyboards with lead singer Benoit David. Yes are the pioneers for the use of synthesizers and sound effects in modern music, which produced such timeless, symphonic-rock masterworks as "Roundabout," "Close To the Edge," and "Awaken". Yes continued to push the cutting edge of art-rock music to their limits, selling over 30 million albums, reaching platinum status multiple times worldwide. Yes' powerful mainstream progressive compositions have influenced a generation of musicians with a hugely successful and indelible catalogue of music with hit albums such as Drama, Fragile, Close To The Edge and 90125. Classics such as "Roundabout," a seminal hit which consistently appears on "the best songs of all-time" lists, and the group's #1 hit "Owner of a Lonely Heart," which Horn is responsible for. Taken from the Yes album 90125, this single would form part of a unique double, which would see Yes and Horn top both the UK and US charts simultaneously. Fly From Here will be released on Frontiers Records July 2011. More details about the album, its packaging and Yes' live plans for the rest of the year will become available shortly. For additional information please visit www.yesworld.com.   JADED HEART BACK LIVE AND IN THE STUDIO: Jaded Heart checked in with me to announce they have chosen all songs for their next album and will enter the studio soon. They are also appearing live this very weekend to open a new Ballroom - Home of Rock in Osnabrück on Saturday! See the flyer below for details. On April 29th the band will play another live show supporting Hammerfall for the release of their new album. And finally, the band plays with Cinderella on June 18 in Mühlheim/Ruhr.   SHOTGUN SYMPHONY RELEASES FIRST NEW SONG IN TWELVE YEARS: Asbury, New Jersey, March 31, 2011 – Shotgun Symphony will release "The One" as part of the Rock for Japan CD being released on April 29 by the German label AOR Heaven. This will be the first new material released from the band since 1999's Sea Of Desire. After reforming for a one-off performance of their classic debut CD at Firefest VII the band entered into the studio to work on writing some new material, "The One" is one of the songs recorded during those sessions. Keyboardist Charlie Calv explains, "I was contacted by Georg Siegl to see if we had any unreleased material that he could use for a CD he was putting together to benefit Japan, and we thought it was such a great cause that we could probably go in the studio real quick and finish up something new", Tracy White adds, "I went right in the studio to finish up some vocals and acoustic guitar on one of the songs we had been working on and the result is "The One"." For more information visit the bands website at www.shotgunsymphony.net. STONELAKE ANNOUNCE NEW KEYBOARD PLAYER: StoneLake would like to thank David Lindell for his time in the band and we wish him all the best in the future. At the same time we want to announce and welcome our new member on keys Annika Argerich. Annika Argerich was born in the fall of 1981 in Angered, Sweden. As she grew older as did the inspiration of classical composers, majorly Chopin and Beethoven. It grew to such intense inspiration that at the age of 13 she couldn't keep her hands off any piano she'd come across. And here did the journey of her life as a musician begin. The first band Annika playing with was named Ayana Blaze, this was though an amateur band and nothing was recorded before the band split up and the band members started to search for new roads to travel. After a few years she joined a band named Cult Disciples and the most recent band Annika played with was Veritate, a band formed by members of Cult Disciples and Santure during 2003. Stonelake on YouTube: www.youtube.com/stonelaketheband. Check out 3 samples from the band from their upcoming studio album: Fool With No Denial / Red Canyon / Sound Of A Whisper.   RUSH HIT THE ROAD: Here is the set list from the opening show on Rush's 2011 world tour (March 30, 2011 Bank Atlantic Center, Sunrise, Florida). First set: Video intro to set, The Spirit of Radio, Time Stand Still, Presto, Stick It Out, Workin' Them Angels, Leave That Thing Alone, Faithless, BU2B (Brought Up To Believe), Freewill, Marathon, Subdivisions....Video intro to set 2, Tom Sawyer, Red Barchetta, YYZ, Limelight, The Camera Eye, Witch Hunt, Vital Signs, Caravan, Neil drum solo, Alex solo / Closer To The Heart / 2112 Overture / Temples Of Syrinx, Far Cry, La Villa Strangiato, Working Man, Closing video. SWEDISH HARD ROCKERS TO GIVE ALBUM AWAY: The new album by Swedish One Without is titled Sweet Relief and the release date has been set to the 29th of April Worldwide. "Thoughts of a Secluded Mind", the debut album by One Without, was released by German Lifeforce Records in 2009 in North-America, Europe and Japan. Since the release of "Thoughts of a Secluded Mind", One Without has toured Europe on three different occasions with the bands Evergrey, Katatonia and The Genitorturers. One Without has also performed at several festivals around Europe, performed live in Swedish national radio, received tons of great reviews, has been interviewed and featured in numerous magazines and radio shows all over the world and shared stages with bands like Soulfly, Epica, Doro, Krypteria, Paradise Lost, Carpark North, Sister Sin, Within Y, All Ends and Marionette. One Without comments: "We have made an important decision that is based on a changing music industry. We feel that we don't want to "give" away our songs to a record label so that they can squeeze every little penny out of our fans, money that we never get to see anyway. Then we would just rather give it to our fans for free!" One Without will let everyone download the upcoming album "Sweet Relief" TOTALLY FREE from their website April 29: www.onewithout.com. The album will be released through the own label "OW Productions" and will also be available for purchase at all the bigger music-stores online, like iTunes, Amazon etc. Sweet Relief was mixed by Mattias Wänerstam (Avatar, Within Y, Suicide Nation) and mastered by Dragan Tanaskovic at Bohussound (Mustasch, Europe, In Flames, Evergrey). Artwork was made by Gustavo Sazes of Abstrata Art and Design. REVIEWS UPDATED: Reviews online now for: 8-IS, Moritz, Danger Zone, Wake Up Call, Bad City, Myland and the Sin-Atra tribute. Read them now. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Phil Lynott 1985 Unreleased Demos (3 Tracks) - Rated X - '87 Demo (5 Tracks) - Feature Album - Roko - Roko (1990) - Runaway Stray - Demos (UK 89)(4 Tracks) - Savannah Nix - Demos (UK 89)(3 Tracks) - Section Eight (Sweden) - Demos (3 Tracks) Join MRX now and support MelodicRock.com.

 

 

Thursday, March 31, 2011

VAN HALEN - 2011 STILL THE YEAR FOR A COLD FRONT TO REACH HELL: Due to the usual lack of information flowing, Van Halen fans went all kinds of crazy this week at the mere sight of a tweet from Eddie Trunk regarding Van Halen's progress in the studio. When in reality, it pretty much just confirmed the already stated - that the album talked about since last year will appear later this year.... Van Halen's PR department is once again sadly lacking, but there is always hope I guess! Producer John Shanks' tweets have been sadly useless. He rarely says anything and when he does it is only cryptic, and looking back, there wasn't anything about his work with VH. Another opportunity missed. Here's what I can add to the current rumours... Yes, the album is all but done and it appears mixing is underway, but once again, my source (who has been with me all through this) is sticking with the story that the majority of the album was recorded in 2010 with producer Ross Hogarth. John Shanks was called in to help David Lee Roth arrange and record the vocals and put the whole thing together. I'm told that Eddie has played most of the bass parts, but will likely not be credited on the album for that. My source also tells me that one of his contacts heard one track with the working title of Lift. It was described as having "a Van Hagar flavor to it" and that "Dave's vocals were done in a very low baritone key." Lastly, I heard from a venue in Europe that they were offered a mid-year date for a Van Halen with Ozzy Osbourne tour package. I can't confirm that in any way, but take it as yet another rumour to consider. That's all until next time... AOR HEAVEN FINALIZE ROCK FOR JAPAN BENEFIT ALBUM: On March 11, 2011 one of the biggest natural disasters hit the country of our close friends in Japan. The earthquake, the tsunami and the nuclear devastation and the resulting inapprehensible pictures on TV left us in sadness and depression and caused a feeling that something needed to be done to help. The original idea by the label AOR Heaven simply was to release a Melodic Rock/Hard Rock charity album for Japan and to donate all profit of the sales income of this CD to the Red Cross in Japan. An e-mail was sent to some bands in order to find out if any of them would be interested in participating in this project. From this point on, the idea started to move and caused massive feedback. Within the first 24 hours after this message had been sent, more than 20 highly profiled bands and artists from all over the world already had offered to take part by contributing previously unreleased material each. Since many of these bands have got a long history which is heavily connected to the Japanese country and it's loyal friends for these special kinds of musical styles, this participation means a lot for them. The songs you can hear on this record come deeply from their hearts and even though this seems to be just a small thing that can be done, all these little pieces – and this also includes the income of this project and the donations as a result of it – will be one part of an over-all big puzzle that may help in the end. CD 1: 1. FM - Kissed 2. Tommy Heart - And I Know 3. Grand Illusion - Yumi's Eyes 4. Harlan Cage - Sinner's Groove 5. Fiona - Love Along The Way 6. Dan Reed - I Don't Mind 7. Tony Harnell - One Way Ride 8. Grand Design - Love Will Shine The Way 9. White / Norgren - Message Of Love 10. Hartmann feat. Tobias Sammet - Brother's (Live) 11. Brian McDonald - In Too Deep 12. Shotgun Symphony - The One 13. Brett Walker - Good Enough 14. Peter Beckett - Too Many Reasons 15. Poison Sun - Russian Racketeers 16. Big Nature - One Way Ride 17. Legs Diamond - Missing A Part. CD2: 1. Soul Doctor - You're All That I Want (Single Remix) 2. Crown Of Thorns - I Won't Wait * 3. Harem Scarem - Easier 4. Robin Beck - The One * 5. Torben Schmidt - Run Away 6. Mark Spiro - Say Your Prayers 7. House Of Lords - Spirit Of Love * 8. Mitch Malloy - Anything At All (Live) 9. Dogface - Fired 10. Kane'd - Rock Against The D.J. 11. Royal Hunt - Back To Square (Live) 12. M.ill.ion - What I Want 13. Johnny Lima - Nowhere Left To Go 14. Tommy Denander - Where Is The Fire 15. Chris Laney - Coming Home 16. Bulletrain - Take Me To The Sun 17. Subsignal – Wingless. * = previously released; everything else: previously unreleased / www.facebook.com/rockforjapan.   POISON'S TOP HITS GATHERED FOR 25th ANNIVERSARY 'DOUBLE DOSE: ULTIMATE HITS': Catch Poison's Extensive North American Tour this Summer with Mötley Crüe and the New York Dolls / Hollywood, California – March 15, 2011 – To celebrate Poison's 25th Anniversary, 35 of the multi-platinum band's top hits and fan favorites have been gathered for Double Dose: Ultimate Hits, a new career-spanning 2CD and digital collection to be released May 3 by Capitol/EMI. Double Dose: Ultimate Hits features all of the band's charting singles, including the #1 smash ballad "Every Rose Has It's Thorn," Top 10 hits "Nothin' But A Good Time," "Unskinny Bop," and "Something To Believe In," and other big hits and fan favorites, including "Talk Dirty To Me," "I Want Action," "Your Mama Don't Dance," "Fallen Angel," "Ride The Wind," and many more, including standouts from the band's most recent album, 2007's Poison'd!. "Between Double Dose and the 25th Anniversary Tour, I honestly can't think of a better way to mark this major milestone," says Poison's singer Bret Michaels. "I'm so excited to get back out on the road with the band again to celebrate - and 'Double Dose' is going to be such a must-have collection: All the hits in one place. This is going to be really special for all of the fans - and especially for all of those who have been with us since Day One." Poison's highly-anticipated tour with Mötley Crüe and the New York Dolls kicks off June 7 at Dallas' Gexa Energy Pavilion, before continuing on to more than 30 other cities and major venues across North America, including Los Angeles' Hollywood Bowl on June 14, Toronto's Molson Amphitheatre on June 28, Detroit's DTE Energy Music Center on June 29, and Chicago's FMB Amphitheatre on July 1. Bret Michaels has partnered with Dean Guitars to represent a line of guitars, and he will soon release a new vocal warm-up CD. This fall, he'll hit the high seas aboard the Bret Michaels Super Cruise. Check: www.bretmichaels.com for updates / www.poisonweb.com. Double Dose: Ultimate Hits [2CD, Digital] - Disc 1 - 1. Talk Dirty To Me 2. I Want Action 3. I Won't Forget You 4. Cry Tough 5. Look What The Cat Dragged In 6. Nothin' But A Good Time 7. Fallen Angel 8. Every Rose Has It's Thorn 9. Your Mama Don't Dance 10. Unskinny Bop 11. Rock And Roll All Nite 12. Ride The Wind 13. Something To Believe In 14. Life Goes On 15. Stand 16. The Last Song 17. Shooting Star. Disc 2 - 1. We're An American Band 2. So Tell Me Why 3. No More Lookin' Back [Live] 4. Can't You See 5. Little Willy 6. Suffragette City 7. Look But You Can't Touch 8. Until You Suffer Some (Fire And Ice) 9. Bastard Son Of A Thousand Blues 10. Lay Your Body Down 11. Sexual Thing 12. (Flesh & Blood) Sacrifice 13. What I Like About You 14. Love On The Rocks 15. Face The Hangman 16. Livin' For The Minute 17. Cover Of The Rolling Stone 18. Poor Boy Blues.   TOUGH LOVE FOR AEROSMITH FANS: Poison are not alone in cashing in this summer season. Following renewed interest in the band via frontman Steven Tyler's American Idol appearances, Aerosmith are at it too... Aerosmith will release Tough Love: Best of the Ballads on May 10, 2011. Tough Love Track Listing: 1. Angel 2. Amazing 3. Love In An Elevator 4. Cryin 5. What It Takes 6. Rag Doll 7. Crazy 8. Deuces Are Wild 9. Livin On The Edge 10. Blind Man 11. Janie's Got A Gun 12. Dream On.   QUEENSRYCHE ACOUSTIC BENEFIT: Join Geoff Tate and members of Queensryche in this special event at the Hard Rock Cafe in Seattle on April 16th at 8pm. The night will kick off with an introduction to the third vintage of Insania wine, a collaboration between Geoff Tate and Three Rivers Winery. Guests can purchase and enjoy the wine and have Geoff autograph the bottle. Before the night is over, the band will take the stage and perform an acoustic set of their favorite songs. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the relief efforts in Japan. Tickets are $20 advance and $30 at doors. Age 21 and over please: www.ticketweb.com/t3/. MELODIC BRIEFS: File this under the 'what a tool' banner - Pete Townshend wishes he had never joined The Who. Despite the band being considered one of the greatest rock groups of all-time, the guitarist believes he could have been just as successful as a solo performer - www.independent.co.uk/news/people/news/pete-townshend-wishes-he-hadnt-joined-the-who-2251836.html. Bloodbound - "Unholy Cross" just entered the Swedish top 100 album chart at #50! The album is also #3 on the Official hard rock chart! www.hitlistan.se. Csaba Zvekan (ex Killing Machine, Emergency, Sardonyx, Warpdrive) has signed a management deal with Rock N Growl Promotion, Germany. A new melodic metal project is on the way. The Line-up will be announced soon. Csaba Zvekan is a musician and founder of the band Sardonyx, Emergency and Warpdrive and was the singer for Killing Machine (2008-2011). Csaba Zvekan also played and/or recorded with members of Kiss, Black Sabbath, Ozzy Osbourne, W.A.S.P., Anthrax, Great White, Steve Vai and The Black Crowes among others. www.facebook.com/pages/Csaba-Zvekan/43185219525. St. Louis hard rock band Dust and Bones has released their second CD Rock and Roll Show on Perris records. Their new video, Set You Free can be seen on Facebook. Check out their website at www.dustandbonesroxxx.com for all the info needed on the band. CD can be purchased at www.perrisrecords.com under new releases or at any of the download sites! The Swedish melodic metal band Enbound has recorded a music video for the track "Combined the Souls" in Stockholm, Sweden. "Combined the Souls" is the opening track on the bands up-coming debut album "And She Says Gold" that will be released in Europe on April 29th and in Japan on April 20th. For more information on Enbound, visit: www.enbound.com.   INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Guitarist Dave Henzerling — aka David Michael Philips — of King Kobra checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about the band's brand new self-titled release; how the band got back together with mastermind Carmine Appice; how the band hooked up with Frontiers Records; new singer Paul Shortino; his other projects Tunnel and Big Cock; upcoming tour plans; and a whole lot more. To hear the audio interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/king-kobra. TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest podcast (episode #117), featuring Oleg and Konstantin from Russian Rock Band Pushking. Oleg and Konstantin took time out of their busy schedule to discuss Pushking's new release The World as We Love It, as well as their upcoming tour plans. Oleg and Konstantin also discuss what it was like recording with such and all-star line up. Interview lasts approx. 25 min. Who's gonna carry the torch once the Priest, Maiden and The Scorpions are done? Is there really a band out there other than Metallica that can fill an arena these days? Can the metal dinosaurs still Rock Us Like A Hurricane? Join Genghis and Ragman as they discuss the vets as well as the newcomers. Did G & R find a successor to Judas Priest? Tune in and find out. Next, the boys bring in Oleg and Konstantin from Pushking for a heart to heart as they discuss their first US release as well as the big stars that helped them achieve their goal. Rockpages Web Magazine in Greece interviews FM backstage at Hard Rock Hell - Rockpages.gr : Is it too early to talk about the new album? FM : No! No! Not at all! Rockpages.gr : So, does that mean you won't? FM : (Huge laughs) Well, nobody's asking that question at nine o' clock! (laughs) No, we have been in the studio, start putting songs away. Rockpages.gr : So, we can assume next summer? FM : Next June, yeah! We'll probably record seven songs… but we've got a lot of songs… We might record fifteen songs or twenty and chose the best. This is what we did with "Metropolis", we recorded the songs and then we sent them out to friends and people in the business… Some results came back in order to decide which ones we should put in the album. The fans, all the fans, loved it! So, we're going to do the same thing! Record the songs and send them out to the panel, we call it "the panel". Rockpages.gr : These new songs will be close to the "Metropolis" songs, sound-wise? FM : Yeah, we're just gonna carry on. I think we've got more of an idea of what we want to do… We've been away for so long… With "Metropolis" we've had a team we trusted to work with. And now we have that team in place for this album… I think it's more focused… Read The Full Interview at: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=5400&type=1&lang=EN. LION MUSIC ARTIST UPDATES: Leading Swedish progressive metallers Seventh Wonder are looking for a new drummer preferably based in Sweden - all applicants should contact: drummer@seventhwonder.nu. The bands current release "The Great Escape" has seen universally excellent praise from press and fans worldwide and the video for 'Alley Cat' has now had over 120,000 hits at YouTube - www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sRDa-xTfwg. In addition Seventh Wonder are proud to confirm they will headline the ProgPower Europe 2011 festival on Friday September 30. Bassist Andreas Blomqvist is currently working in US and will unfortunately be unable to make this show. His replacement will be Johan Larsson, a good friend of the band and also the guy who did the artwork for "The Great Escape" and the "Alley Cat" video. Dutch progressive metallers Day Six fresh from some support slots to Threshold in Europe hit the UK this week for some selected headline shows and an appearance at the Fused Festival. Day Six UK-tour 2011 - Mar 31st 2011 London The Dublin Castle UK Apr 1st 2011 Canning Town, London Bridgehouse II UK Apr 3rd 2011 Lydney Fused Festival UK (www.fusedfestival.com) The band's current release "The Grand Design" was released in June 2010 on Lion Music. Dutch progressive metallers Sun Caged see their highly anticipated third album The Lotus Effect set for release on June 17 on Lion Music. Those who try to describe Sun Caged's music will find this task to be considerable. Influences range from progressive metal to fusion and jazz, and atmospheric and ambient jaunts. The band's progressive blend is going to excite lots of listeners because of its diversity and excitement with "The Lotus Effect" serving up the most potent examples of the bands sound yet. One full track from the forthcoming album, the 10 minute "Pareidolized (The Ocean In The Shell)" can be heard now at the bands MySpace page - www.myspace.com/suncaged. Pre-orders for Lars Eric Mattsson's forthcoming instrumental masterpiece Aurora Borealis - Concerto For Orchestra & Electric Guitar (released 15th April 2011) are now be taken at the LM store. www.lionmusic.com/shop/M/Mattsson.htm. This new wholly instrumental 12 track release takes a fresh approach to the blend of guitar and orchestra for a musical experience as uplifting as seeing the wonder of the northern lights, from which the album gets its title. Whilst the combination of orchestra and guitar may have been done before by amongst others one of Mattsson's influences Uli Jon Roth; 'Aurora Borealis' takes the range of sound and expressions further that what has been heard before and places as much emphasis on each tracks backing as with its guitar work. The result is a highly captivating and listenable experience. Lush in textures and timbres, 'Aurora Borealis' comes across at times like a film score; sometimes fast and exotic whilst at others sweet and luxurious. Many moods are covered and all of which see Mattsson deliver impassioned guitar work in his own inimitable style.

 

 

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

WHITESNAKE "LIVE AT DONINGTON 1990" DVD/DOUBLE LIVE CD SET OUT IN JUNE ON FRONTIERS RECORDS: The fans demanded it…Whitesnake's Live At Donington 1990 DVD/live double CD set will now be available on June 3 in Europe and June 7 in North America, via Frontiers Records. Since the inception of Whitesnake.com more than ten years ago, this DVD has been the most requested product from fans of the 'Snake. On August 18th, 1990, Whitesnake headlined the legendary Monsters Of Rock at Castle Donington festival (now known as Download). Whitesnake's performance at the festival was one of the most memorable events on the "Liquor & Poker World Tour" that saw the band play sold-out shows to over one million people. This incredible, never-before-seen, visual footage captures one of the most musically-intense Whitesnake line-ups performing in front 70,000+ fans. Mixed in glorious 5.1 and living, breathing stereo, it's the next best thing to actually being there! Whitesnake 1990 featured guitar greats Steve Vai and Adrian Vandenberg, bassist Rudy Sarzo, drummer Tommy Aldridge and of course, incomparable frontman David Coverdale. The Live At Donington 1990 DVD also includes a substantial gallery of never before seen stills of the band on the "Liquor & Poker World Tour 1990", plus an intimate behind-the-scenes documentary of the making-of the Slip Of The Tongue album. Please see below for the respective double CD and DVD track listings. The Live At Donington 1990 will be available in 2CD set, DVD coverpack, combo 2CD + DVD in digipak and digital edition. In other news, Whitesnake's brand new album Forevermore is out this week on Frontiers Records and is available in multiple configurations. The album is already receiving rave reviews from the press with The Aquarian dubbing it, "excellent…their bluesiest and grittiest release since their 1984 masterpiece Slide It In…", while Hard Rock Hideout declares, "Make no mistake, Forevermore, is an early front runner for record of the year." Forevermore finds founder/singer/songwriter David Coverdale and company returning to their no-holds-barred, bluesiest, sexiest rock n' roll roots. Whitesnake is David Coverdale (vocals), Doug Aldrich (guitars), Reb Beach (guitars), Michael Devin (bass) and Briian Tichy (drums). The 'Snake will soon hit the road in support of Forevermore… Formed in 1977, and steered by the legendary David Coverdale, Whitesnake carry a rightful reputation as one of the world's leading rock n' roll bands. Coverdale's blues roots, combined with a feral sense of rockin' and rollin', have consistently shaped the 'Snake's sound along with Coverdale's love and appreciation of impeccable musicianship.  Whitesnake's ascent to the very top of the rock n' roll heap was confirmed with 1987's self-titled mega-platinum album, which saw two massive Top 10 hits, two #1 singles with "Here I Go Again" and "Is This Love" and a virtual 24-hour domination of MTV around the world. Whitesnake Live At Donington 1990 DVD track listing: 1. Slip Of The Tongue 2. Slide It In 3. Judgement Day 4. Slow An Easy 5. Kitten's Got Claws 6. Adagio For Strato 7. Flying Dutchman Boogie 8. Is This Love 9. Cheap An' Nasty 10. Crying In The Rain (featuring Tommy Aldridge drum solo) 11. Fool For Your Loving 12. For The Love Of God 13. The Audience Is Listening 14. Here I Go Again 15. Bad Boys 16. Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City 17. Still Of The Night. 18. Bonus content: The Making of Slip of the Tongue; Slide Show. Whitesnake Live At Donington 1990 CD track listing: CD1 - 1. Slip Of The Tongue 2. Slide It In 3. Judgement Day 4. Slow An Easy 5. Kitten's Got Claws 6. Adagio For Strato 7. Flying Dutchman Boogie 8. Is This Love 9. Cheap An' Nasty 10. Crying In The Rain (featuring Tommy Aldridge drum solo) CD - 1. Fool For Your Loving 2. For The Love Of God 3. The Audience Is Listening 4. Here I Go Again 5. Bad Boys 6. Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City 7. Still Of The Night.   xxxx QUEENSRŸCHE TO CELEBRATE THEIR 30th ANNIVERSARY IN ROCK BY RELEASING NEW ALBUM DEDICATED TO CHAOS THIS SUMMER: New York, NY: Queensrÿche announced today that their new album will be called Dedicated to Chaos and it will be released this summer. It's the band's first effort for its new label, Roadrunner Records/Loud & Proud. The band – featuring Geoff Tate, Michael Wilton, Eddie Jackson, Scott Rockenfield and Parker Lundgren -- is currently planning a tour in support of the new opus, which was recorded in its native Seattle. Tour dates and information will be released when available. "Modern life moves fast," commented frontman Geoff Tate about the album. "Plug into the rhythm of the now with our 12th studio album, Dedicated to Chaos. It's a clash and slash of musical experimentation anchored by the pulse of digital code." He did issue one suggestion to listeners as well, saying: "Enjoy – headphones are a must." Queensrÿche's 1988-issued album Operation: Mindcrime is universally respected as a classic concept release about rock, revenge and redemption, which 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. The band is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and Dedicated to Chaos marks a new and riveting chapter in Queensrÿche's already impressive history that fans will not want to miss. And the chaos has just begun. Visit: www.queensryche.com for more information. BLACK COUNYTRY COMMUNION - TAKE 2: Black Country Communion, the English-American hard rock band featuring the talents of bassist/vocalist Glenn Hughes, blues rock guitarist/vocalist Joe Bonamassa, drummer Jason Bonham, and keyboardist Derek Sherinian, have released the artwork for their much-anticipated second album "2". The album will be released in the UK and Europe on June 13th by Mascot Records and in America on June 14th by J&R Adventures. On June 9, the band will kick off a 7-date US summer tour in San Diego. The band will then embark on a UK/European tour. UK dates include Llandudno Cymru Arena (23 July), London's High Voltage Festival (24 July), Leeds O2 Academy (26 July), Newcastle O2 Academy (27 July), Glasgow 02 Academy (29 July), and Manchester Academy (30 July). 24 Hour Ticket Hotline: 0871 230 1101. Book Online: www.seetickets.com and www.thegigcartel.com. Black Country Communion's self-titled debut album was released in Sept. 2010 to rave reviews. The album stormed the #1 position on the Official UK Top 40 Rock Album Chart; #13 in the Top 40 Album Chart and #2 in the Top 40 Indie Album Chart. It made #3 in Classic Rock's "Critics Album of the Year" poll, while Planet Rock listeners crowned them Best New Band of 2010. Recent live shows in the UK in December 2010 had the Birmingham Mail calling their performance "rip-roaring" and "breathtaking." Classic Rock reported "a scorching set from start to finish." Fans can quench their thirst with a free download from BCC guitarist Joe Bonamassa's new critically acclaimed album "Dust Bowl". The album, Bonamassa's twelfth, entered the UK Album Charts this week at #12 and #10 in Germany, making this his best chart debut yet. Download the first single "Dust Bowl" at www.jbonamassa.com/DustBowl.   BRYAN ADAMS PICKS UP HIS BAND AGAIN: Rock superstar Bryan Adams, shall be plugging in once again and hitting the road with a full band this November/December to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of his 3 x platinum selling album 'Waking Up The Neighbours'. After the phenomenal success of his 'Bare Bones' solo-acoustic tour last year, Bryan will be hitting the road for a full arena tour of the UK stopping at 12 cities across the country, this time with a full band. He will be performing a set that will honour not only the 20th Anniversary of 'Waking Up The Neighbours', but also his endless catalogue of anthemic hits including 'Cuts Like A Knife', 'Summer of '69', 'Kids Wanna Rock', 'Can't Stop This Thing We've Started', '(Everything I Do) I Do It For You', 'Heaven' and 'Run To You', to name but a few. Since it's release in 1991, 'Waking Up The Neighbours' has sold 16 million copies worldwide, reaching the number 1 spot in 8 countries. It spawned huge hits such as 'Can't Stop This Thing We Started', 'There Will Never Be Another Tonight' and the massive number 1 smash hit '(Everything I do) I Do It For You' which remained at the number one spot in the UK for 16 consecutive weeks (the longest in UK Chart History). As Canada's best known ambassador, Bryan Adams has spent the last three decades making music history. He has sold over 65 million records, toured six continents and achieved #1 status in over 40 countries around the world. He has been awarded the Order of Canada and in 2006, was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame at the Juno Awards in Halifax. He has been nominated for, and won several Academy Awards, Golden Globes and Grammy's. Dates - November 2011 Thursday 24 - Newcastle Metro Radio Arena Friday 25 - Glasgow Secc Saturday 26 - Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre Monday 28 - Liverpool Echo Arena Tuesday 29 - Nottingham Arena Wednesday 30 - Manchester Evening News Area December 2011 Thursday 1 - Sheffield Motorpoint Arena Saturday 3 - Cardiff Motor Point Arena Sunday 4 - Birmingham Lg Arena Monday 5 - Bournemouth Bic Wednesday 7 - Brighton Centre Thursday 8 - London 02 Arena Bryan Adams Tickets for his UK Tour go onsale from 9am on Friday 1st April 2011 priced at £39.50 Regionally & London £45.00 & £38.50 (subject to booking fee). NEW WITHIN TEMPTATION ALBUM DEBUT'S AT NUMBER ONE IN THE U.S. AND THE U.K.: The new album of Within Temptation entered the rock charts of i tunes at number one today in the U.S. and the U.K. The album was released in 48 countries and is ranking in the top 5 in many major markets with further number ones in France, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Finland, The Netherlands, Portugal and Switzerland. The band's concept album "The Unforgiving" is based on the story line of a comic series written by Steven O'Connell (BloodRayne & Dark 48) and illustrated by Romano Molenaar (Witchblade, Darkness, X-Men). The Album comes with a DVD featuring 3 short films introducing the main characters of "The Unforgiving" which are impersonated by actors. Within Temptation is The Netherlands biggest musical export since a number of years selling in excess of 3 million CD and DVDs, receiving numerous platinum and gold awards; MTV Awards and many others. The band has performed sold out world tours and played the biggest festivals such as Roskilde (DK), Download (U.K.), Rock am Ring (Ger), Loud Park (Jap). As of August 2011 the band will return to the European festival circuit. September the 10th will be the start date for "The Unforgiving" world tour in New York. MELODIC BRIEFS: Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band return to the road for the 12th All Starr tour. Joining Ringo Starr will be Rick Derringer on guitar, Richard Page on bass, Wally Palmar on guitar & harmonica, Edgar Winter on sax and keyboards, Gary Wright on keyboards and Gregg Bissonette on drums. The twenty seven date tour kicks off in Kiev, Ukraine on 4th June, stopping in Russia, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Latvia, Poland, Britain, France, Czech Republic, Italy, Holland and Germany before concluding in Vienna, Austria on 17th July. News Report / Best Buy is no longer interested in taking a bath on Guns N' Roses "Chinese Democracy", and is now practically giving the album away. As the exclusive U.S. retailer for "Democracy", Best Buy is offering a special deal on copies of the CD; you can now purchase the album via BestBuy.com for just $1.99. The retailer reportedly paid $14 million for 1.6 million copies of the album, according to Hits; to date, "Democracy" has sold just 614,000 copies in the U.S., based on Nielsen SoundScan reports. BOXED DEAL FROM RENEGADE SOUNDS: Renegade Sounds are pleased to announce that they are selling the Renegade Sounds Box Set, which compiles all 5 of our amazing melodic rock CD's into one collection: Stiletto - Spin, Renegade - Back From the Dead, Renegade - On the Edge, Matrex - I'll Always Remember, Vertigo - Takes Me Back. This is a melodic rock fan's dream collection in a specially designed collector package, and features many hit songs, including; Big City Nights - Renegade, Standing Out in the Rain - Renegade, I Don't Want Anybody - Matrex, Broken Hearted Man - Matrex, Freedom - Stiletto, In My Arms Again - Stiletto, Freedom - Vertigo, Go All the Way - Vertigo, On the Edge - Renegade, It's My Life - Renegade. Great value in this collection for $50 USD, including worldwide shipping. Ask for it at your favourite online store or at www.renegadesounds.com.

 

 

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

BRITNEY SPEARS' COMEBACK IS BEING DE-RAILED BY WHITESNAKE: The new Whitesnake album Forevermore is released this week via Frontiers Records worldwide. This from: www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/music/3489079/Whitesnake-outstrip-Spears.html. "The troubled star's seventh album is currently lagging behind the perm-sporting veterans' latest collection online. The ageing stadium-fillers, led by Yorkshireman David Coverdale, are probably best known for their anthems Is This Love and Here I Go Again. Their eleventh album Forevermore has had 35% more pre-orders on website amazon.co.uk than Brit's seventh Femme Fatale. A spokesperson for the firm said: "Britney Spears is one of the most successful global pop acts with a career spanning more than ten years but, even with this pedigree, she is being overshadowed and outsold by the elder statesmen of British rock. Whitesnake were already releasing their fourth album in 1981, the year Britney was born, and it is a major achievement to be racking up more pre-orders than the pop princess." Indeed!     Coming up from Frontiers next is: STONELAKE SIGNS WITH MASSACRE RECORDS: The Swedish based melodic metal band Stonelake inked a deal with Massacre Records.The worldwide release of their 5th album Marching on timeless tales is set to June, 24. Commented from the band: "This is a big step forward for us to be a part of Massacre Records and we are very proud and happy about it. We hope that our fans enjoy the new album as much as we do. Since we began working with "Marching on timeless tales" we felt that our creativity is stronger than ever and that a new era has come for us". Stonelake's fifth album "Marching on timeless tales" is a strong release. The title of the album is a reminder of ancient time and impact in our lives and how to respond to that knowledge. Jan Åkesson and Peter Grundström are the long lasting friends and even this time they have written all songs. Again they have made an album with great songs and strong and catchy melodies with hooks all over. They have a career way back in the early eighties and now they have secured the metal scene for a long time ahead with their distinguishing metal style. Stonelake started the recordings at the UMP Studio in Furulund, Sweden in August 2010 and this time they have worked with the very well-known Tommy Denander playing lead guitar on the "Winds of fire" track. With the "Marching on timeless tales" album StoneLake has reached a musically higher level and the production is brilliant from Jan Åkesson as the Man behind the table. Produced, Recorded, Mixed and Mastered by Jan Åkesson at UMP Unlimited Music Production Furulund Sweden. Drums recorded by Håkan Hansson, mixed by Håkan Hansson/Jan Åkesson at Drumrec/UMP Unlimited Music Production. Songs: 1. Red Canyon 2. Liar 3. Sound Of A Whisper 4. SnakeChild 5. Fool With No Denial 6. Rain 7. Lay Down The War 8. Give It Up 9. Winds Of Fire 10. Enter The Temple. Line-up: Peter Grundström: Vocals and backround vocals, Jan Åkesson: Guitars, Lasse Johansson: Bass, Jens Westberg: Drums, Keyboard: David Lindell. Special Guest: Tommy Denander: Leadguitar on "Winds Of Fire" Coverartwork Made By Carl André Beckston. Link to promoclip: www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ivCcv6PcGY / www.stonelake.se.   xx SYMPHONY X NEW ALBUM ARTWORK AND TRACK LISTING REVEALED: North America's progressive metal masterminds SYMPHONY X are proud to announce the two artwork versions and track listings for their ninth studio album & Nuclear Blast debut, Iconoclast. It will be available in Europe on June 17th and in North America on June 21. Illustrator and film concept artist Warren Flanagan (Watchmen, The Incredible Hulk, 2012) is the talent behind the album artwork. Here, he shares his creative process on the new album's artwork: "The idea was to create imagery that was a little darker in tone to previous Symphony X albums and to represent the overall theme of Iconoclast into the artwork. The whole concept came from Mike [Romeo], who had a strong idea of what the cover should represent based off the music. I just ran with it. When the album's title was decided on, I focused the image based on the meaning of it. I also wanted to use the band's signature 'masks' but present them in a way that connected to the new album." Symphony X founder & lead guitarist Michael Romeo has the following to say about Flanagan's art: "We worked with Warren on the last CD, Paradise Lost, and have a good relationship with him. When I talk to Warren about artwork ideas, a lot of times we end up making comparisons to films and movies. With the new CD, Iconoclast, the music and lyrics have a darker mechanical/technological theme, and I remember us talking about scenes from films like The Matrix and Terminator. From there, we sent him some song titles and lyrics (songs like 'Dehumanized,' 'Bastards Of The Machine,' 'Electric Messiah') and just let Warren run with the ball. He has a great imagination and style, and he totally gets what we are trying to convey with the music." The track listing for the jewel-cased version of Iconoclast is: 01. Iconoclast 02. The End Of Innocence 03. Dehumanized 04. Bastards Of The Machine 05. Heretic 06. Children Of A Faceless God 07. Electric Messiah 08. Prometheus (I Am Alive) 09. When All Is Lost. The track listing for the 2CD Special Edition digi-pak version of Iconoclast is: CD 1: 01. Iconoclast 02. The End Of Innocence 03. Dehumanized 04. Bastards Of The Machine 05. Heretic 06. Children Of A Faceless God 07. When All Is Lost. CD 2: 01. Electric Messiah 02. Prometheus (I Am Alive) 03. Light Up The Night 04. The Lords Of Chaos 05. Reign In Madness. SYMPHONY X are currently on the Power of Metal tour in Europe with Nevermore and will hit North America in April.   MELODIC BRIEFS: AOR Heaven's Rock For Japan CD charity project has a set release date! The CD will hit the stores via AOR Heaven on April 29 and the line-up is now completed. The double CD will include 33 tracks and be announced at this space during the next week. AORH would like to thank everybody who offered his/ her songs to contribute! www.facebook.com/rockforjapan.   Jimi Jamison is busy working on a new solo album (with German backing band) plus the duo album with Bobby Kimball, not to mention working with Billy Gibons on his solo cd and a new ZZ Top CD which the band has just commenced working on. Carmine Appice interviewed at Metal Shrine. Topics include new album, Spinal Tap, Rod Stewart, touring w/Kiss and Ozzy, Marcie Free and more: metalshrineblogg.blogspot.com/2011/03/intervju-med-carmine-appice-i-king.html#links. Looks like Motley Crue and Def Leppard are each due to play Australia on their own tours later in the year. RockEyez interview with Miss Behaviour's Erik Heikne: www.rockeyez.com/interviews/2011-03-miss-behaviour-erik-heikne/int-2011-.... Denmark Rock Festival is hereby born. Please take a look at the following link and get all the info: denmarkrockfestival.dk. Upcoming Trixter shows: Apr 21 - Planet LIVE Music Factory, Battle Creek, MI; Apr 22 - The Hayloft, Mt. Clemens, MI; Apr 23 - McGuffys House of Rock, Dayton, OH; Apr 29 - Murphys Third Rail, Dover, NJ; Sep 04 - Septemberfest, Omaha, NE with Firehouse. www.trixterrocks.com. Eden's Curse bassist Paul Logue and singer Michael Eden checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about one of the best releases this year, Trinity; how they ended up working with vocal giants James LaBrie and Andi Deris; the narrative that flows throughout Trinity AND that it's not a concept album; the band's take on religion and spirituality in their music; tour plans; and a whole lot more. To hear the entire interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/edens-curse/. A new Mike & The Mechanics album titled The Road will be released April 8. Track Listing: 1. The Road 2. Reach Out (Touch The Sun) 3. Try To Save Me 4. Background Noise 5. I Don't Do Love 6. Heaven Doesn't Care 7. It Only Hurts For A While 8. Walking On Water 9. Hunt You Down 10. Oh No 11. You Can Be The Rock.   BACK IN BUSINESS (MOSTLY...KIND OF..): Please forgive the extended outage. Just about everything went wrong at once. I lost the old Noticeboard then a virus got around my protection to bugger up my PC. So I took the opportunity to upgrade to Windows 7 after 5-6 years with XP, only then to have to reconfigure my system, learn the ways of Win7 and re-install all the necessary programs to make MelodicRock.com a reality. Then I had to learn how to drive the new Noticeboard, which I'm pleased to say is online right now with this new address: www.melodicrock.com/phorum52/list.php?1. This is a kick ass board system, with the newly added features of Private Messaging, text formatting, editing, MP3 and link embedding, plus an exclusive mobile module to allow viewing of the board in an easy way when logging on via iPhone or any other smart phone. Both upgrades emptied my wallet, but will be worthwhile in the long run. Work on the brand new MelodicRock.com continues. As you can imagine, my head is about to explode. But onwards we go. Back to business as normal with updates, but I am way behind with e-mail, the MelRock Awards and Reviews, so bare with me while I work to regain some lost ground. Cheers....Andrew.

 

 

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

A CALL TO ARMS FOR ARTISTS TO JOIN "SUPPORT JAPAN" PROJECT: Alan Niven and his Tru-B-Dor partner Heather Vincent, he the man who managed Guns N Roses and Great White to multi-platinum success, is helping to put together a novel charity project to raise funds for victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. "Its called Artist Support Japan", says Niven, "and the idea, which began with Graham Thomas, an old friend and former CEO of Saatchi and Saatchi is for artists to record an acoustic song with an iPhone or whatever, something immediate and real and of the moment, and attach a message of support. Once we have enough clips well put them on our You Tube and Facebook sites, and the fans get to see fresh and unusual performances. Well go to business and ask them to donate to the fund. Its early yet but perhaps a company like Coke might get interested once the site is of substance. If Sandra Bullock can give a million then perhaps we can find a company to make a meaningful donation in return for site sponsorship and we can raise more than the usual benefit gig and without the huge carbon footprint. Individuals will also be able to donate personally." Amongst the artists already committed are Paul Rodgers, Tom Hollister Trio, Glenn Hughes, Frankie Banali, Dee Snider, Blue Weaver and Phil Lewis. Niven is seeking further contributions. He can be reached at graham.thomas@radicalcompany.com. The Artist Support Japan website is up now at www.youtube.com/user/ArtistsSupportJapan. ROYAL HUNT BACKING VOCALIST SUPPORTS JAPANESE DISASTER: Michelle Raitzin who sang with Royal Hunt some lead and backing vocals, toured with the band in Japan in 2008 and 2009. In Michelle's own words, "Hey guys, I wrote this song "About Tomorrow" and it came up on my playlist as I was searching the news to see what else I can find out about the tragedy that is going on in Japan. I wanted to see what I can do to help. At that moment, it just clicked for me. Although it's hard to say that we can relate to how the people of Japan are feeling right now, this song really seemed to be as close as I could get. Please donate to the Red Cross, just heard on the news that not nearly enough is coming in. Thank you so much for watching!" Royal Hunt is planning to tour Japan in April, despite the current situation in there. (Tokyo - April 23rd, Nagoya - April 24th and Osaka April 26th) About Tomorrow original tribute song by singer/songwriter Michelle Raitzin: www.youtube.com/watch?v=cNCBZEC-a5w. MELODIC REVOLUTION RECORDS TO RELEASE DIGITAL ALBUM IN SUPPORT OF JAPAN: Charity label There Is Hope Records an imprint of Melodic Revolution Records to release Strength on March 29. Strength is a digital CD release to help raise money for the people of Japan, in the aftermath of the tragic Tsunami and Earthquakes that have devastated the country since March 11, 2011. Musicians from around the globe (International & Independent) have donated music to this release to help raise money. All proceeds of the release are donated directly to Music For Relief who is partnered with many wonderful organizations like Habitat for Humanity and others. Music For Relief is a grassroots effort comprised of musicians, music industry professionals and fans who believe that together they can create positive change. Music For Relief: Established in 2005 to provide aid for those affected by the Indian Ocean Tsunami, the idea for Music For Relief originated amongst the members of the band Linkin Park who wanted to do something to help those affected. The idea was that if they made a donation, and then asked their musician peers and their fans to make a donation as well, a huge impact could be made in assisting relief efforts. With this in mind, they started reaching out to others in the music community to get involved and became the founders of Music For Relief. WebLink: www.musicforrelief.org / This is the forth in a series of charity releases to help those in need, other release include "The Christmas Gift" a compilation to help raise money and awareness for the homeless. "Musicians for Oil Relief" to help raise money for the people affected in the Gulf Oil Disaster. "Songs For Haiti – Relief Through Music" to help the people after the tragic earthquake that shook Haiti in January of 2010. Single Downloads went on March 22, 2011 for the mere donation of just one dollar. You can add one of the many wonderful tracks to your music collection while helping the people of Japan. Downloads available in most all formats for the same low price and is available to purchase at: thereishoperecords.com. For more information: www.facebook.com/thereishoperecords.   CELEBRATE 'RECORD STORE DAY' WITH DELUXE, NUMBERED DIO PICTURE DISC: To coincide with this year's Record Store Day (which falls on Saturday, April 16th), Niji Entertainment will be issuing a very special, Limited Edition, Deluxe Numbered Picture Disc LP of Dio's 2002 release, Killing the Dragon, of which only 2,500 copies will be made. Each copy will be numbered in a unique way ­ by a special Dio hologram sticker. Also on Saturday, April 16th, former Dio band members Craig Goldy, Simon Wright, and Scott Warren will participate in an in-store appearance from 12:30pm to 3:30pm at the Mad Platter record store, which is located at 1223 University Avenue, #160, in Riverside, CA 92507-7238. You can also call the store at (951) 328-1600. 'Killing the Dragon' marked the first collaboration between Dio and guitarist Doug Aldrich, who has subsequently joined Whitesnake. The album also spawned the single/video "Push," which featured Tenacious D's Jack Black and Kyle Gass. And exclusively for the picture disc edition of 'Killing the Dragon,' Dio's longtime engineer, Wyn Davis, mixed and remastered the album. Get ready to grab your copy quickly of the 'Killing the Dragon' picture disc, as this collector's item is bound to disappear quickly! 'Killing the Dragon' Track List: 1. "Killing the Dragon" 2. "Along Comes a Spider" 3. "Scream" 4. "Better in the Dark" 5. "Rock & Roll" 6. "Push" 7. "Guilty" 8. "Throw Away Children" 9. "Before the Fall" 10. "Cold Feet". For more information, visit: www.facebook.com/OfficialRonnieJamesDio / www.ronniejamesdio.com. NEW COMPILATION FROM MUSIC BUY MAIL: MusicBuyMail.eu is happy to present their second free compilation The Power Of Rock! The 16-track compilation features songs from Edens Curse, Coldspell, Last Autumns Dream, Myland, among others as well as unreleased tracks from forthcoming Enbound, Rockcalibur, Heaven Rain releases. Each order will include the sampler with loads Power Of Rock!   BLOODBOUND: FREE DOWNLOAD SONG AVAILABLE! / NEW ALBUM "UNHOLY CROSS" RELEASED: Swedish power metallers Bloodbound will release their new album "Unholy Cross" on March 18th. It's the first with new vocalist Patrik Johansson, and even more: "Unholy Cross" marks the band's highly-anticipated return to the sound of the celebrated sound of their debut album "Nosferatu", which was released in 2006. Combined with the most powerful and best production so far, this album will amaze every fan. The song "Drop The Bomb" is available HERE for free download (right-click on the link and choose "Save Target As").   ERIC JOHNSON TAKES HOME THREE AUSTIN MUSIC AWARDS: One of the finest rock guitarists to ever hail from Texas, Eric Johnson, continues to be recognized as such from his home state. On Saturday, March 19th, Johnson collected a total of three awards at the 2010/2011 Austin Music Awards. Held at the Austin Music Hall, the categories that the Johnson won in included "Best Electric Guitar," "Best Acoustic Guitar," and "Best Instrumental Band." Johnson has long been considered one of rock's most talented six-string players, as evidenced by his platinum-certified 1990 release, 'Ah Via Musicom," its hit single "Cliffs of Dover," as well as a Grammy Award win for "Best Rock Instrumental Performance" in 1991. Johnson has recorded six studio albums thus far, his latest being 2010's 'Up Close,' a release, which included guest appearances from Sonny Landreth, Steve Miller, Jimmie Vaughan and Jonny Lang. Since 1982, Johnson has won an unprecedented 33 awards at the Austin Music Awards. For a full listing of Johnson's Austin Music Awards wins over the years, visit here: www.austinchronicle.com/Awards/MusicAwards/?mode=all-time. "Thanks for the continued support from my fans and all those that help keep the music scene vibrant in Austin," says Eric. "I appreciate the opportunity to keep playing music for everyone." For more information, visit: www.ericjohnson.com. THIS WEEK'S HAIR METAL HAVEN RADIO SHOW: On this week Hair Metal Haven Chris Nelson will be chatting to Tigertailz and one of the UK's top drummers Robin Guy in another 18 & Life personal questions about himself. Then in the Power Hour, Chris will be bringing you the exclusive UK interview he did with original Iron Maiden vocalist Paul D'ianno just months before his trial and 9 months jail sentence. Find out what makes the original bad boy of heavy metal tick, and also have another chance to win 2 tickets for this years Firefest festival, Nottingham, England worth over £200. Saturday 26th March 17.00-19.00gmt www.phoenixradio.co.uk. PAGAN'S MIND INKS WORLDWIDE DEAL WITH SPV/STEAMHAMMER, ALBUM AND TOUR DETAILS: Norway's Pagan's Mind proudly announces a worldwide collaboration with SPV/Steamhammer for the future, commencing with the band's upcoming album to be released on May 20 in Germany, May 23 for the rest of Europe and in June for USA/Canada. The fifth studio album from the hard-hitting Melodic Metal outfit will be named Heavenly Ecstasy, and to promote the album the band will embark on a tour of UK and Benelux. Guitarist and producer Jørn Viggo Lofstad says: "After considering offers from various labels, we decided to be a part of the new SPV family. Signing with such a respected label gave us the spark to come up with what we think is the most cohesive album we have done, and probably our best offering so far. We can't wait to get back in action and present these songs to you all." SPV / Steamhammer A&R Olly Hahn replies: "I´m very happy that Pagan`s Mind decided to join the SPV family. The band always delivered some of the best and most exciting metal music and with the new album they even put up a dash more!" To promote Heavenly Ecstasy, the band has lined up the following shows so far: May 20 - London, Camden Underworld, UK May 21 - Manchester, Satan's Hollow, UK May 22 - Wakefield, The Snooty Fox, UK May 23 - Grimsby, Yarbirds, UK May 24 - Nottingham, Bensons, UK May 25 - Birmingham, The Roadhouse, UK May 26 - Zaandam, De Kade, NL May 27 - Uden, De Pul, NL May 28 - Dokkum, Dokk'em Open Air, NL May 29 - As, GC Drieschaar, BE July 7-10 - Kvinesdal, Norway Rock Festival, NO July 15 - Lichtenvoorde, Zwarte Cross, NL WebLinks: www.pagansmind.com / www.spv.de.   COLORADO USA - PAINT THE TOWN BLACK N BLUE THIS FRIDAY NIGHT: 80s rockers Black n Blue will perform its first concert of 2011 this coming Friday night @ Casselmans bar and venue in Denver Colorado. On March 25 David B Productions presents Black n Blue with special guests The Dark and The Threatened and Chainsaw Love Affair live one night only at Casselmans in NoDo Denver!! With 4 out of the 5 original members, the band is ready to Heat it up and Burn it out!! The lineup consists of Jaime St. James (V), Pete Holmes (dr), Patrick Young(b), Jeff Warner(G) and Shawn Sonnenschein (G) (Guitarist Tommy Thayer is somewhat busy in a band called Kiss-maybe you've heard of them?) Performing classics such as Hold on To 18, Miss Mystery, Ill be there for you (written by Journeys Jonathan Cain), and many more…BBlack n Blue will rock your socks off, and then some. The band has been busy doing festival dates and recording their comeback CD titled Hell Yeah! which will be released May of 2011 on Frontiers records. To buy tickets just follow the link https://holdmyticket.com/mini/mini.php?id=19069. Or go to davidbproductions.com for all the details. David B Productions is Denvers newest Promotional company that specializes in Hard Rock. Together there is over 40 years of promoting experience, and the drive to Rock the Rockies once more! SHOCKWAVES/HARDRADIO PODCAST #50: Shockwaves/HardRadio podcast #50: On this episode host Bob Nalbandian interviews legendary guitarist Brian Robertson (Thin Lizzy/ Motorhead / Wild Horses) who discusses his new solo project, his time with Thin Lizzy and Motorhead as well as his thoughts on the new Thin Lizzy lineup. Brian also shares some fond memories of the late, great Gary Moore. Also on this episode is an interview with Extreme vocalist Gary Cherone who talks about his new side project Hurtsmile as well as an interview with current Thin Lizzy bassist Marco Mendoza who also has a new solo album/project entitled Casa Mendoza. Direct Link to Podcast #50: www.hardradio.com/shockwaves/podcasts/podcast50.m4a. Direct Link to All Episodes: www.hardradio.com/shockwaves/podcasts/podcast1.xml. PROFESSIONAL RECORDING STUDIO SERVICES NOW AVAILABLE...IN YOUR COMPUTER: Jim and Patti Mason have launched OnlineSongMasters.Com, a full service recording studio with a twist- all recording can be done online, making it affordable and accessible to just about everyone. This is not synthesizer or midi; it's real people playing real instruments. The internet simply functions as an interface between the OnlineSongMasters.Com staff and their clients, allowing the customer access to some of the best studio talent in the world. A full staff of gifted and experienced studio musicians and engineers can do any studio job from adding a flute to your song to producing a radio ready opus: written, arranged, performed, recorded, mixed and mastered to your specifications. OnlineSongMasters.Com is a full service online recording studio that provides all studio services- from one track to a full production-to songwriters, musicians or anyone who wishes to leave a musical legacy. OnlineSongMasters.Com is a privately owned LLC headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio; with musicians and engineers worldwide. For more information email: PattiMason@OnlineSongMasters.Com / www.onlinesongmasters.com/indexphp.

 

 

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

FRONTIERS RECORDS ANNOUNCES EUROPEAN RELEASE OF ECLIPSE: It's Journey overload - below is the just released European press release (with updated release date info) for the Eclipse album. At the base of the press release I have added exclusive details of the song running times for those curious about the layout of the album! Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of JOURNEY's forthcoming studio album Eclipse in Europe on May 27. Eclipse is Journey's fifteenth studio album and shows the band at the peak of their creative juices, truly regenerated after the blistering success of their last studio album Revelation. Journey will follow the release of Eclipse with the launch the "Eclipse Tour" which will kick off with a 7 date arena tour in the UK/Eire, together with Styx and Foreigner and will then hit Germany, Switzerland, Benelux, Scandinavia, France and - for the first time ever - Italy. "I'm in love with this record, which I haven't said about one of our albums for a long time," says founding member and lead guitarist, Neal Schon. "It's a rock record and it sounds amazing." Commenting on the upcoming tour, Schon continued, "We've got a lot of hits to play and there's plenty of time to do some new stuff too, so we're gonna mix it up. We haven't toured with Foreigner for over 10 years, so we're really looking forward to this run." In an interview with the Las Vegas Review-Journal, keyboardist Jonathan Cain recently described "Eclipse" as "a concept record with some spiritual themes to it…pretty tough, hard-hitting stuff." Jonathan continued, "We just felt like it was time to send a message to the world about how we feel about life in general." The new album release will be preceded by the digital release of the single City of Hope on April 4th. Journey toured the world for two years in support of their 2008 release, Revelation. More than a million fans attended the shows, and welcomed new lead singer Arnel Pineda. Completing the Journey lineup is Schon (guitars, backing vocals), Cain (keyboards, backing vocals), Ross Valory (bass, backing vocals) and Deen Castronovo (drums, percussion, backing vocals). Revelation marked the band's biggest first week's sales in more than a decade, debuting at #5 on the Billboard 200 in June 2008 and with chart entries in the UK, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Netherlands and Switzerland. "Revelation" earned the band their 11th Platinum album certification to date, leading The New York Times to declare that "the band…feels alive." Since its formation in 1973, Journey has earned 19 Top 40 singles and 25 gold and platinum albums in the US. The band's Greatest Hits album is certified 15 times platinum, bringing Journey into the elite club of Diamond-certified album holders. The group also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005. Eclipse will include the following tracks: City of Hope, Edge of the Moment, Chain of Love, Tantra, Anything is Possible, Resonate, She's a Mystery, Human Feel, Ritual, To Whom It May Concern, Someone, Venus. The "Eclipse" tour video trailer can be enjoyed following the link below: www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfMqsfozKMk. JOURNEY - EUROPEAN TOUR DATES JUNE Sat 04 London, UK - Wembley Arena Sun 05 Birmingham, UK - LG Arena Tue 07 Newcastle, UK - Metro Radio Arena Wed 08 Manchester, UK - M.E.N. Arena Thu 09 Glasgow, Scotland - S.E.C.C. Sat 11 Dublin, Ireland - The o2 Sun 12 Belfast, N. Ireland - Odyssey Arena Wed 15 Berlin, Germany - Zitadelle Fri 17 Hannover, Germany - ParkBuehne Sat 18 Esslingen, (Stuttgart), Germany - Richard Hirschmann Eisstadion Sun 19 Winterthur, Switzerland - Eishalle Deutweg Tue 21 Milan, Italy - Fiera Arena Wed 22 Augsburg (Nuremberg), Germany - Schwabenhalle Fri 24 Dessel, Belgium - Graspop Sat 25 St. Goarshausen, Germany - Loreley Freilichtbuhne Sun 26 Gräfenhainichen (Dessau), Germany - Ferropolis 'Stadt aus Eisen' Tue 28 Copenhagen, Denmark - Store Vega Thu 30 Haugesund Norway - Arena Tent, Skaanevik Blues Festival Site JULY Sat 02 Borlange, Sweden - Peace & Love Festival site Wed 06 Luxembourg - Rockhal Box Thu 07 Paris, France - Palais des Sports Fri 08 Weert, Netherlands - Bospop, Festivalarea, Weert-Nord For more information on Journey and complete tour details go to www.journeymusic.com. Track running times: 01. City Of Hope 6.01 02. Edge Of The Moment 5.28 03. Chain Of Love 6.11 04. Tantra 6.28 05. Anything Is Possible 5.21 06. Resonate 5.11 07. She's A Mystery 6.42 08. Human Feel 6.44 09. Ritual 4.58 10. To Whom It May Concern 5.15 11. Someone 4.34 12. Venus (To Whom It May Concern Reprise/Inst.) 3.31   AOR HEAVEN CLASSIX - THE NEXT ROUND: The Swedish band Amaze Me released three excellent Melodic Rock albums during the 90s, which meanwhile are all out of print. The compilation entitled Ultimate Collection contains the very best songs from their longplayers Amaze Me, Dream On and Wonderland and features the usual treatment of the previous AOR Heaven Classix releases - a remastering by Chris Lyne (Soul Doctor) and liner notes by Dave Reynolds. As usual it's a limited run of 1.000 copies which is only available through www.aorheaven.com and connected retailers. Tracklist: 1. Gods Gift To Women 2. You Say You Never Cry 3. Help Me 4. Next Train Back 5. You Can't Hide 6. Dream On 7. It's All Over 8. Danger 9. That Night 10. Hold On To Love 11. I Am Waiting 12. I'm Never Coming Back 13. Wonderland 14. Without Your Love 15. Thousand Miles Away 16. Shadows From The Past 17. Red Lips 18. Good Day To Die. Due next in the AOR Heaven Classix series is the release of the Jeff Paris album Freak Flag, originally released in Japan only. The release of Freak Flag is set for late April and will feature 1 previously unreleased bonus track!   xx JETHRO TULL CELEBRATES AQUALUNG'S 40TH ANNIVERSARY WITH A NORTH AMERICAN TOUR: In celebration of the park bench, dribbly-nosed voyeur's 40th Anniversary, Ian Anderson returns to the USA with his band Jethro Tull, starting June 8 in Denver, CO and ending on the 27 in Chicago, IL. The group features longtime members Ian Anderson (flute, vocals, acoustic guitar) and Martin Barre (guitars), Doane Perry (drums), as well as David Goodier (bass) and pianist John O'Hara. The latter two joined in 2006 after working with Ian on some of his solo projects. The group will be performing the Aqualung album in its entirety plus a range of their other favorites from the lat 42 years. Critics dubbed AQUALUNG "a concept album," particularly for Ian's critical, skeptical views of organized religion, mostly on side B ("My God," "Hymn 43"). Anderson has disputed - almost resented - the assessment seeing the record as "just a bunch of songs." This led the band to give the critics a full-blown concept album with the following studio release Thick As A Brick which topped the Billboard charts in 1972. On Aqualung, the group explores the struggles of the less fortunate in our society (e.g., "Aqualung," "Cross-Eyed Mary," "Up to Me"). Teenage angst and formal education difficulties (e.g., "Wind Up") are explored, and Ian returns to his parental themes with "Cheap Day Return," a tune encompassing Anderson's feelings while traveling North on the train to visit his sick father. "Locomotive Breath" touches on the issues of globalization, population expansion and runaway economics. Sound familiar? Formed in 1968, Jethro Tull released its first album THIS WAS late in that year and followed up in 1969 with STAND UP. In the 1970s, the group was one of the most successful live performing acts on the world stage, rivaling Zeppelin, Elton John and even the Rolling Stones. Surprising, really, for a group whose more sophisticated and evolved stylistic extravagance was far from the Pop and Rock norm of that era. With now some 30-odd albums to their credit and sales totaling more than 50 million, the apparently un-commercial Tull continues to perform over a 100 concerts per year with its rich variety and depth of expression, wherever fans, young and old, want to hear Rock, Folk, Jazz and Classical-inspired music. Music for boys in long trousers and girls with brains. In 2011, Tull will tour in Australia, Ireland, and Germany. And Ian will perform solo shows in Germany, Spain, Cyprus, Turkey, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Venezuela, Panama, Mexico, Czech Republic, the UK, Sweden, Denmark and Finland finishing with his customary charity Christmas concerts at three UK cathedrals. In 2006, Ian was awarded a Doctorate in Literature from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, the Ivor Novello Award for International Achievement in Music and, in the New Years Honours List 2008, an MBE for services to music. In 2012, he expects to be awarded the Smithsonian Medal of Honor for smelling OK for someone his age and having ears still in proportion to the rest of his head. His bladder remains elastic and his prostate the size of a pinhead. Official Jethro Tull radio: www.jethrotull.com/live365/jethrotullradio/mini/index.html. MR.com NOTICEBOARD - REST IN PEACE: The infamous, much loved, heavily visited and compelling MelodicRock Noticeboard has died. It is a sad day for me. Users trying to reach the board will only find a blank white page, while the index page now reads R.I.P. The decade old board has been heavily spammed in recent times, leaving it vulnerable to hackers and only last week was hijacked to send out spam e-mail across an old admin e-mail account. So, with one page of history closing, it is time to start a new chapter. A replacement board is in development and will be launched officially on Monday. This new board will add many new features that users have requested over the years and throw in a few brand new options that should impress and help folks get over the loss of the old board (may it rest in peace). Stay tuned for updates.

 

 

Monday, March 21, 2011

A CLASSIC ON THE HORIZON: The buzz surrounding Journey's upcoming new studio album Eclipse has already started. Due out May 24 in North America via WalMart and Rest Of The World June 3 via Frontiers Records, the new album has been described by Neal Schon as "...a rock record...sounds amazing..." and by Jonathan Cain "a concept record with some spiritual themes to it…pretty tough, hard-hitting stuff." Band management described it to me as "very melodic.. but more rock...longer songs...". Some very attention grabbing quotes there for long time fans of the band and of this genre in general to salivate over. But fans are often let down when the advance descriptions don't match the finished product. Well not this time! ECLIPSE is a MASTERPIECE. There...I've said it. This is one bold, brave, challenging and exquisitely constructed album. Yes, it rocks. Like Journey haven't rocked since 1981...and then some. It is one of the boldest, bravest moves I have heard from a classic rock band. Maybe EVER as far as a band of this age goes. But it is still as catchy and melodic as ever. There are so many twists and turns, it is almost progressive in places. This record will likely scare the shit out of fans of Raised On Radio, it has big balls. Eclipse is dark and heavy, yet melodic. Adventurous, yet familiar. Moody, yet uplifting. Simply bloody AMAZING. This has been on daily constant rotation for a while now....it has had plenty of time to sink in or wear off and it simply gets better and better. It's a bit rawer than we might be used to from the ever polished Journey though...very well mixed, with a lot constantly going on, but it has such raw energy and power. The constant wall of guitars on this record is unbelievable. Fans of Neal Schon are going to love hearing that EVERY song features wailing solos (sometimes several in one song) and truly hard rocking riffs. The songs are LONG. Most over 6 mins, a few under. It really does feature some utterly amazing guitar work. Neal sounds like 5-guitarists-in-one on some tracks. So much to absorb. And drummer Deen Castronovo is a frickin machine. He has never pounded so hard on those skins, not even in Hardline. I have no hesitation in saying that. The drumming on this album is brutal! Jonathan Cain has delivered some of his finest lyrics in a long long time. I'm really struck by the depth of the lyrics on this record. It has a spiritual nature and deals with human emotions throughout, but there are some truly uplifting and inspiring lyrics in play here - no matter what the emotion of each song is. Arnel Pineda - well, what can I say. Eclipse is one powerful record and Arnel is pushed to the outer limits of human ability with some of the vocals here. Even when wailing, the soul and emotion within his voice remains true. He spends a lot of the album signing in his own natural timbre, not trying to be Steve Perry or anyone else. But it is still 100% Journey and it works so well. What a stunning vocal performance. STUNNING. His vocals are a MILE in front of Revelation (and how good were those anyway!). The songs - not one weak moment on there at all. Not one song I would ever skip due to any particular mood. It has to be played thru from start to finish every time - but you'll need over 60 mins to do so! Watch for the hardest rocking Chain Of Love; the heavy, dark mood of Edge Of A Moment (kinda Separate Ways 2011), the upliting feel good anthem Anything Is Possible (sounds like classic Joruney/Bad English AOR); the beyond description She's A Mystery (guitar/vocal acoustic track that turns into Rush meets Triumph!) and one of the most powerful ballads I have heard in years, with vocal power beyond description - Tantra. And of course the classic Journey style anthem City Of Hope, which is released as a single April 4. But as stated, each and every track here is a classic on its own and favourite tracks vary from day to day. Eclipse has to be considered a masterpiece. Simply put - it is one of the FINEST albums I have heard in my time running this site and has immediately declared itself to be one of my favourite Journey albums EVER. Stay tuned for more...   LUKATHER REPORT FROM SPAIN AS SOLO TOUR WINDS DOWN: MetalSymphony.com has uploaded photos of Steve Lukather's March 13, 2011 concert at Sala Heineken, Spain. Check them out at this location: www.metalsymphony.com/galeria/thumbnails.php?album=317. Steve Lukather's setlist was as follows: Darkness in my World, Always Be There For Me, Extinction Blues, Stab in the Back, 68, Bodrie's, Homenaje a Gary Moore (Versión), Jamming with Jesus, Song For Jeff, Tumescent, Solo batería, While my Guitar Gently Weeps, Out of love, Tears of my Own Shame, Solo teclado, Flash in the pan, Can't Look Back, The Road Goes On. FIREWIND´S DRUMMERS' LOVE.MIGHT.KILL SIGNS WITH MASSACRE RECORDS: German-/Italian-based melodic-metallers Love.Might.Kill inked a deal with Massacre Records. The worldwide release of their debut-album Brace For Impact is set to June, 17th. Commented drummer and producer Michael Ehré: "We are very happy and proud to announce our partnership with Massacre Records. Since I've been joining Metalium ten years ago I'm working with them and now we're proud to be a part of the Massacre family with Love.Might.Kill!" German/Italian melodic-metallers Love.Might.Kill recently posted an album-trailer for their upcoming release Brace For Impact. The trailer features scenes from their very first video and photo shoot along with a short interview with drummer/producer Michael Ehré (Firewind/Uli Jon Roth/Metalium). The clip for the song Pretty Little Mess was shot in Germany in October 2010 and will be released soon. View the album preview here: www.youtube.com/eXUT6uSrtCk. Love.Might.Kill was founded in 2009 by Firewind/Uli Jon Roth/Metalium-drummer Michael Ehré. After touring all around the world with several bands and writing songs for German-metallers Metalium, Japanese-female-metal-vocalist Saeko or ex-Zed Yago-founder Jutta Weinhold, he realised his vision of an own band by writing, recording and producing Love.Might.Kill's debut-album Brace For Impact. In addition with the brilliant Italian-singer Jan Manenti as a co-writer, long-time-friends Christian Stöver and Stefan Ellerhorst (who were both playing in German-based-metalband Crossroads) on guitars and Jogi Sweers on bass Love.Might.Kill's outstanding line-up was completed. Brace For Impact features 13 stunning melodic-metal-tracks in the tradition of the bands longtime favourites like f.e. Rainbow, Judas Priest, Dio or Black Sabbath. Michaels production and Markus Teske's mix (Saga, Vanden Plas, Spocks Beard) underwrite the fact that Love.Might.Kill's debut-album will convince all melodic-metal-maniacs all around the world. For further information please go to: www.lovemightkill.com.   MELODIC BRIEFS: This past January, Adrian Galysh played in ex-Scorpions guitarist, Uli Jon Roth's band for a few California dates. Joining him in the band was Bjorn Englen (Yngwie Malmsteen) on bass, Mark Boals (Malmsteen, Royal hunt) on vocals, and Adrian's regular drummer, Glen Sobel. A full report can be read at: adriangalysh.blogspot.com. Adrian will be teaching and performing at the 25th annual Summer Guitar Workshop at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. This intensive week of everything guitar, will be on July 25-29th. To learn how to enroll, please visit: www.duq.edu/music/summer/guitar/index.cfm. A couple of the latest music industry related articles on what the future may bring. First on streaming audio (www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/music/will-renting-music-make-people-listen-and-love-again/article1947242) and the second on an attempted crackdown on P2P file sharing (www.mosesavalon.com/mosesblog/946/music-business/obama-issues-p2p-crackdown-signals-end-of-internet-piracy). Guns N Roses to play Rio again? chinese-democracy.blogspot.com/2011/03/gnr-tipped-to-play-rock-in-rio-in.html. Mass & Stryper - Back Together Again For One night only! Appearing Live March 26, 2011 at: Showcase Live, 23 Patriot place, Foxboro, Massachusetts. Venue 508-543-0609 Box office 888-354-7042. Royal Hunt's album from 1997 - Paradox – has been released on vinyl for the first time by Night of the Vinyl Dead company as a limited edition (hand numbered, 350 copies) heavy vinyl with the colour insert. To buy one, go to: nightofthevinyldead.com   INTRODUCING LOSING SCARLET'S SOPHMORE RELEASE LEARNING TO BLEED: Press Release / Losing Scarlet is back with our 2nd CD called Learning to Bleed!  This release continues where we left off by punching you in the chest with material that maintains an attitude and a maturity expected from a band that is taking things to the next level. Much has happened to Losing Scarlet in the last 18 months.  We have played about 100 shows and plan to continue with a heavy schedule in 2011. Toured the West Coast (Rockford, Omaha, Denver, Phoenix and Las Vegas) and headlining the Wasted Space @ the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas. We have shared the stage with national acts Five Finger Death Punch, Bullet For My Valentine, Nonpoint, Taproot, Tantric, Soil and Days of the New. Dick Whiskey and other tracks have been played on numerous radio stations including Q101 - Chicago, Rock 108 - Cedar Rapids, 96.7 - The Eagle - Rockford, 94.7 - The Razor - Green Bay and a host of others. Learning to Bleed will be available on over 60 digital download sites including iTunes, Amazon and Napster as well as our own website - www.losingscarlet.com. March shows are listed below:  You can also pre-order the CD at iTunes. 3/4    Show @ Splitters, Loves, Park (Rockford), IL 3/8    Learning to Bleed is released Everywhere!  3/12  Acoustic Set / Meet & greet @ Best Buy in Mundelein, IL 3/18  CD Release Party @ The Montrose Room Rosemont, IL 3/19  Acoustic Set / Meet & Greet @ Rolling Stones Records (Harlem & Irving in Chicago) 3/26  Show @ Jesse Oaks in Gages Lake, IL 4/2 Show @ SlyFox, Burlington, WI 4/8 Show @ the Rave, Milwaukee, WI 4/16 Show @ Brat Stop, Kenosha, WI 4/30 Show @ Bar 3, Rockford, IL

 

 

Friday, March 18, 2011

AOR HEAVEN PREPARES ROCK FOR JAPAN CD: AOR Heaven are currently working on setting up a charity sampler CD called "Rock For Japan". This double CD set will include more than 30 previously unreleased songs by leading bands from the AOR, Melodic Rock and Hard Rock genres. A detailed track list will be revealed within the next two weeks. All income generated from this release will be donated to the German Red Cross in order to support the victims of the Japanese tragedies. A Facebook site about the project was created at the following link yesterday and will be always be updated with new information when available: Rock For Japan site on Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Rock-For-Japan/137138909689325. Please hit the 'like' button on the Facebook site and help the cause.   COMING UP IN JAPAN: Toto / In The Blink Of An Eye 1977-2011 is a new Blu-spec CD compilation from the band due out May 4. A Greatest hits album in the high-fidelity Blu-spec CD format (compatible with standard CD players) and 2011 DSD remastering. Includes rare tracks selected by Steve Lukather and comments from Lukather and David Paich. When I asked Luke about it, he stated that the band normally has no control over what Sony do with their catalogue material, but were invited on this occasion to participate, so they have put together some of the lesser known songs from the band's history together with new liner notes. The Track Listing: Disc 1: (1) Victory Of The Child / Children Anthem (2) Goodbye Elenore (3) Lozana (4) The Gift Of Faith (5) Miss Sun (6) I'll Be Over You (7) It's A Feeling (8) Stranger In Town (9) Till The End (10) The Other End Of Time (11) Jake To The Bone (12) Love You / I'll Supply The Love (13) Carmen (14) 99 (15) Wings Of Time (16) Do Not Stop Me Now. Disc 2: (1) Pamela (2) Mad About You (3) Georgy Porgy (4) Hold You Back (5) Melanie (6) Good For You (7) Endless (8) Tale Of A Man (9) Dune / Desert Theme (10) I Will Remember (11) Rear (12) Africa (13) Home Of The Brave (14) Mudido / The Match (15) Stop Loving You (16) Hold The Line. Pre-order right here. Also on May 4, Sony will re-issue Toto catalogue titles Kingdom Of Desire, Tambu, Toto XX and Mindfields, all in special papersleeve packaging and 2011 remastering. On April 27 the band's first seven albums receive the same treatment: Toto, Hydra, Turn Back, Toto IV, Isolation, Fahrenheit and The seventh one. Pre-order all titles from CD Japan. But Toto aren't alone as far as re-issues. Classic Rock/AOR outfit Charlie are the subject of papersleeves re-issues/2011 24-bit remastering. Covered are the titles: Fantasy Girls, No Second Chance, Lines and Fight Dirty. The cardboard sleeves of this series faithfully replicate the UK edition original artwork. Includes an original insert. And the new Electric Boys album And Them Boys Done Swang is due out this week. All Japanese titles can be ordered with confidence from CD Japan. LION MUSIC - JAPAN EARTHQUAKE & TSUNAMI BENEFIT ALBUM IN THE WORKS: Millions have been affected by the tsunami following the massive earthquake off the coast of Japan. All at Lion Music have been deeply saddened by the terrible recent and ongoing events to have hit the country. Instead of sitting watching events unfold and doing nothing we are in the process of putting together a benefit album from which all artist royalties and the label profits shall be donated to the Red Cross benefit for the victims of the March 2011 Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan. If you'd like to make a donation to the Japanese Red Cross Emergency Relief NOW visit: www.jrc.or.jp/english/relief/l4/Vcms4_00002070.html. Alternatively search online for Red Cross and your country name, from there you should be able to find out how to make a donation in your country's arm of the charity for the Japan earthquake and tsunami appeal. Full details of the benefit album (artists/tracks) are currently being worked on and will appear here very soon. Pre-orders will also be taken shortly so please keep checking: www.lionmusic.com/tsunami.html. Lion Music are proud to announce the signing of a 5 album worldwide licensing deal with vocalist Ian Parry for the new Consortium Project V album Species as well as newly re-mastered versions of the previous 4 album Consortium Project albums. The new Consortium Project V album Species was recorded and mixed by Marcus Teske & Ian Parry at the Bazement Studios in Germany and will be released mid 2011 on Lion Music. On the final epic journey of the series Ian Parry comments, "Consortium Project V is a killer album and the strongest of all 5 Consortium albums being an incredible mix of everything that is powerful in Prog Rock and Gothic Power Metal". The worldwide release of C-V "Species" marks the 21st album release from Ian Parry celebrating a career of over 25 years in the world of rock & metal. As on previous Consortium Project albums a line-up of some of the most notable names in progressive / power / gothic metal circles provide the powerful performances on "Consortium Project V - Species": Ian Parry – Lead & harmony vocals (Elegy, Ayreon, Vengeance), Stephan Lill – Guitars (Vanden Plas), Niels Vejlyt – Guitars (Infinity Overture), Lene Petersen – Female vocals (Infinity Overture), Casey Grillo – Drums (Kamelot), Kris Gildenlow - Bass (Pain of Salvation), Jens Faber – Bass (Dawn of Destiny), Veith Offenbacher - Guitar (Dawn of Destiny). Special guest: Markus Teske – Keyboards (Red Circuit). Introducing newcomers: Ani Lozanova – Female vocals (Ani Lozanova Project), Kalin Jechev – Piano & keyboards (Ani Lozanova Project), Peter-Jan Kleevens – Keyboards. The Quadrilogy Remasters will include bonus tracks in addition to the re-mastered sound and special guest performances from members of Kamelot, Elegy, Vanden Plas, Halford, Within Temptation & many more and release will follow Species in late 2011. As a taste of what's to come here is the introduction video trailer taken from the opening track "Epilogue" from the new Consortium Project V "Species" album: www.youtube.com/watch?v=8eywMarc7jY. Full information to follow soon: www.ianparry.com / www.myspace.com/ianparrytheartist / www.facebook.com/ianparry.rocksinger / www.youtube.com/ianparrycom.   ZEROKING RELEASES DEBUT SINGLE, "STONE COLD BITCH": (17 March, 2011 - Huntington, WV) On the rise hard rock act Zeroking have just released their debut single, Stone Cold Bitch (b/w ""Girls Of California") digitally on Wednesday, 16 March through newly formed Vanity Music Group. One of the top drawing bands in the Mid Atlantic region, the Huntington, WV based quartet has shared the stage with Bobaflex, Nonpoint and Saving Abel, amongst others. Rock Addict Radio voters chose Zeroking "Top Metal Band of 2010" even though the band didn't even have any current product on the shelves yet. Culled from the band's upcoming sophomore album, Kings Of Self Destruction, "Stone Cold Bitch" was produced by the band and Steve Riley and is a raucous blast of energy, politically incorrect and controversial, with a chorus that has quickly become a sing-along fan favorite. "Girls of California" is instantly infectious featuring Slipknot style heaviness and Beach Boys influenced harmonies, that attempts to quantify at least one way you know are "bound for stardom", but you'll have to listen to the lyrics to find out for yourself. "We've been working and perfecting these tunes since right after we played Rocklahoma 2009 and it feels great for people to finally get to hear this record." vocalist Andy Haught states. "While I dont think these encompass the entire scope of the 13 songs on KOSD, I do feel these two songs are a great introduction to our energy and vibe, and I cant wait for people to hear the rest of the record when we finalize our release details." The single is available from iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, eMusic and other legal download sites. Zeroking can be found online at www.facebook.com/zerokingfans, www.reverbnation.com/zeroking and www.myspace.com/zeroking. GOO GOO DOLLS HIT THE ROAD FOR SPRING U.S. TOUR: March 17, 2011 ­ (Burbank, CA) ­ Goo Goo Dolls have announced that they will hit the road for a spring U.S. tour beginning April 3 in Oxford, Mississippi. The band is touring in support of their current album Something For The Rest Of Us. Something For The Rest Of Us has spawned the hit single "Home," which led the multi-platinum rock band to best their own record for the most Top 10 singles in the history of Billboard's Nielsen BDS-based Adult Top 40 chart. The band ­ singer-guitarist Johnny Rzeznik, bassist Robby Takac, and drummer Mike Malinin ­ has notched its 14th Top 10 hit with "Home." The potent, melody-minded Something For The Rest Of Us, which debuted at No. 7 on the Billboard Top 200 chart, has earned raves from such media outlets as Billboard and USA Today, which praise the heft of Rzeznik's songwriting as he addresses the emotional fallout from economic upheaval, war, and a 24-hour news cycle on society. Keep your eye on www.googoodolls.com for news about the band's upcoming summer tour. The Goo Goo Dolls upcoming Spring tour dates are as follows: 04/03 Oxford, MS University of Mississippi/The Grove 04/05 Cookeville, TN Hooper-Eblen Center 04/06 Athens, OH Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Auditorium 04/08 Lewisburg, PA Gerhard Fieldhouse 04/10 Lock Haven, PA Thomas Fieldhouse 04/12 Youngstown, OH Covelli Centre 04/14 Dubuque, IA Diamond Jo Casino 04/15 Maryville, MO Lamkin Activity Center 04/17 Brockport, NY SUNY Brockport Arena 05/26 Santa Ynez, CA Chumash Casino 05/27 Temecula, CA Pechanga Resort and Casino 05/28 Temecula, CA Pechanga Resort and Casino 06/03 Las Vegas, NV Red Rock Resort 08/06 St Petersburg, FL Tropicana Field WebLinks: www.myspace.com/googoodolls / www.googoodolls.com. FANCY A GUIDED TOUR OF IRELAND?: What better day to announce a company that gives tours of Ireland than today, St. Patrick's Day? While the world consumes an estimated 13 million pints of Guinness on this special day of celebration, Be Irish Tours, Ltd. founders Susan Tate (longtime manager of the rock band Queensryche and wife of lead singer Geoff Tate) along with Misty Rockenfield (wife of Queensryche drummer Scott Rockenfield) are busy planning their three "all complete and private tours of Ireland" that will begin in late August. Tate and Rockenfield have traveled the world over and have come to one conclusion... Ireland is simply one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Inspired by their travels to the country, Be Irish Tours, Ltd. is announcing three nine-day tours like no other. "The more we traveled there, the more we thought about doing this," says Susan Tate. "Misty and I have now gone to Ireland at least once every other month for the past two years and it's easily one of our favorite places to go." "We hope to share our experience with travelers on what will be the trip of a lifetime" adds Misty Rockenfield. "It's truly a magical land and we want everyone to come be Irish with us." Prior to formulating the itinerary to their tours, Susan and Misty took several tours of Ireland, many of which were by private tour guides. Be Irish Tours, Ltd. have combined the best of those experiences and will personally show you the best sights, adventures and experiences that Ireland has to offer. Guests will be immersed in the country, the people and the culture. Be Irish Tours, Ltd. will take you on a magical journey through the Emerald Isle as you admire beautiful rich gardens, historical castles, ancient stone circles and mystical monasteries. And yes, you'll even get to kiss the Blarney stone! After you arrive in Ireland, guests will be greeted by Susan, Misty and an Irish tour guide by the name of Gene O'Sullivan, who's been involved in tourism for many years. Gene's specialty is giving guided tours to Americans, who enjoy a hassle-free and safe tour while visiting his country. His mission is to provide "fond memories of The Emerald Isle with a longing in your heart to return once more." With ancestry that goes back to three generations in the tour industry in Ireland, he definitely knows the landscape. "As we say here in Gaelic, 'Cead Mile Failte,' which means one hundred thousand welcomes." As for Susan and Misty, they've seen the world and know how to travel like rock stars. Consider this your backstage pass to Ireland. The price of the tour begins at $1995/per person (which doesn't include airfare) and can be booked directly via the website. For more information, including the full itineraries of the tours, please see www.beirishtours.com. RICKY WARWICK ON AIR THIS WEEK: Singer Ricky Warwick will appear on this week's edition of Caffeine Bomb. Make sure you tune in at 7:00 p.m. EDT on Monday, March 20, to 91.7 FM WHUS in Eastern Connecticut, or stream live at WHUS.org. Caffeine Bomb is hosted by Roger Lotring, an author and freelance music journalist whose work has appeared in the pages of Metal Hammer, Metal Edge, Classic Rock, Shock Wave, Zero and Burn magazines, and at ESPN.com and CMJ.com. Roger is the co-author of "Full Metal Jackie Certified: The 50 Most Influential Heavy Metal Songs of the '80s and the True Stories Behind Their Lyrics". He is also the author of various CD liner notes, including the Motley Crue box set, "Music to Crash Your Car To, Volume 2." 91.7 WHUS is a commercial-free college and community-based radio station broadcasting from the University of Connecticut. For more information, visit Facebook or WHUS.org. BIG ROCK SHOW WITH RYAN ROXIE: News from guitarist Ryan Roxie: "My newest adventure in 'living outside my comfort zone' is about to begin.....I'm going to be hosting a web TV show here in Sweden called 'Big Rock Show with Ryan Roxie' The show begins where my podcast left off so I'm really looking forward to seeing if we can take the entire medium to a new level.....but I'll need your help. The rules are easy..... Rule #1 - Talk about Big Rock Show Rule #2 - Talk about Big Rock Show Quick Description of Big Rock Show with Ryan Roxie - A new show developed for anyone who is a fan of rock music, regardless of the genre. From Classic Rock to Punk Alternative, Big Rock Show will give the viewer the latest news and in depth interviews featuring both International Rock Stars as well as Sweden's own biggest bands. Fast Facts: 1. BRS with RR will be distributed by Aftonbladet.se media group (the largest and most well circulated media company in Sweden) 2. The show will debut March 23rd and will have a weekly episode schedule. Goals of the show: 1.To bring rock music into as many homes in Sweden as possible 2.To bring Swedish Rock bands into as many homes outside of Sweden as possible About the host: Ryan Roxie has been a co-writer, recording artist, and touring band member with Alice Cooper for 10 years. Also co-wrote and recorded with Slash in Slash's Snakepit. Currently plays in Swedish bands Casablanca and Roxie 77. WebLinks: www.bigrockshow.se / lnk.ms/8S2Rt / www.ryanroxie.com. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated yet again, with the following cool new features: - Steelheart - Demos 1 (11 Tracks) - Steelheart - Demos 1990-1992 (7 Tracks) - Cristeen - Black 'N Blue 1990 (6 Tracks) - Cristeen - Cristeen 1991-1993 (15 Unreleased Tracks) - Solodancer - Demos (US 92) - State - Demos (US 92) Help Support MelodicRock.com - Check out MRX Membership Details. CD SALE SHIPPING UPDATE: The recent MRR / MRCD sale saw a massive backlog in orders to ship out - the majority of which have all been sent this week. My apologies for the lengthy delay in shipping those. Unfortunately, i ran out of All I Know discs and had to recall some from another vendor. The package of those CDs has been in limbo for the best part of a week now. I'm "assured" they will be delivered tomorrow, in which case the remaining orders will be in the air Monday. I'll do everything I can to ensure there are no further delays with future orders.

 

 

Thursday, March 17, 2011

LION MUSIC UPDATES- JAPAN BENEFIT ALBUM IN THE WORKS: All at Lion Music has been deeply saddened by the terrible recent and ongoing events to have hit Japan. Instead of sitting watching events unfold and doing nothing we have decided to put together a benefit album from which all artist royalties and the label profits shall be donated to the Red Cross benefit for the victims of the March 2011 Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan. Full details to follow soon at: www.lionmusic.com/tsunami.html. Lion Music celebrates 300th release on 15th April 2011 of Lars Eric Mattsson's Aurora Borealis. Marking Lion Music's 300th release; guitar virtuoso / composer Lars Eric Mattsson returns with the ultimate neo-classical experience in which metal and rock guitar, bass and drums meets classical music for the harmoniously rich Aurora Borealis. This new wholly instrumental 12 track release takes a fresh approach to the blend of guitar and orchestra for a musical experience as uplifting as seeing the wonder of the northern lights, from which the album gets its title. Whilst the combination of orchestra and guitar may have been done before by amongst others one of Mattsson's influences Uli Jon Roth; 'Aurora Borealis' takes the range of sound and expressions further that what has been heard before and places as much emphasis on each tracks backing as with its guitar work. The result is a highly captivating and listenable experience. Lush in textures and timbres, 'Aurora Borealis' comes across at times like a film score; sometimes fast and exotic whilst at others sweet and luxurious. Many moods are covered and all of which see Mattsson deliver impassioned guitar work in his own inimitable style. Mattsson made a big point during the albums compositional stage to deliver an album that could theoretically be performed live within the right setting. To achieve this there is only ever one guitar heard at a time, sometimes playing the lead part but not always. Lars Eric Mattsson comments, "I tried to compose the music with enough variations and the right flow from start to end and keep things listenable by using the right arrangements". To ensure his guitar would work as cleanly as possible with the orchestral parts Mattsson kept his signal chain as pure as possible with only the occasional wah pedal between guitar and amp (with some delay and reverb added in post production). The result is a clean sounding release with strong dynamics and a wide tonal palette. Despite its relative complexity 'Aurora Borealis' may well be easier on the listener than some of his previous vocal progressive metal releases such as 2010's critically acclaimed 'Mattsson – Tango,' although Lars concedes with a smile, "It might sound less complex though I am not sure it actually is!". As a final comment when asked to sum up the new release Mattsson responds, "Classical music and rock has been mixed before with various results but never this way, I tried to create something very unique and I don't think it's fair to label this as just another instrumental guitar album". 'Aurora Borealis' sees Lars Eric Mattsson almost halfway through his third decade in the music business with a new release that is testament to his vision and appetite to ever expand his musical horizons and does so in fine style. 'Aurora Borealis' sees release on Lion Music on 15. Track Listing: 01. Rising (5:16) 02. Bounce (4:16) 03. Cold Water Spirit (5:56) 04. Forward Thinking (6:17) 05. Revolutionary Star (4:40) 06. The Heart (3:55) 07. Eternal Cycles (4:19) 08. Clear Skies (4:06) 09. Planetary Strength (3:17) 10. Parisienne Etude (0:55) 11. Midnight Sun (7:43) 12. Starfall (5:26). Musicians: Lars Eric Mattsson – Guitar and bass. The Astral Orchestra. Eddie Sledgehammer – Drums. WebLinks: www.larsericmattsson.com.   No Gravity are a new progressive power metal outfit and the brainchild of renowned guitarist Simone Fiorletta. Their debut release Worlds In Collision features some of the most illustrious vocalists in the power/prog metal field and sees release on Lion Music on 18th March 2011. Conceived in early 2010 from the ashes of Italian progressive metallers Moonlight Comedy, Simone Fiorlettas intention was to enclose in a single album the best singers of the Power/Prog world with each track tailored for each vocalists individual style; and what a selection of vocalists No Gravity have enrolled! With Andy Kuntz (Vanden Plas), Michele Luppi (Killing Touch, ex Vision Divine), Fabio Lione (Rhapsody Of Fire, Vision Divine), Mark Basile (DGM), Roberto Tiranti (Labyrinth) and Emiliano Germani (Moonlight Comedy) providing the vocal angle this release makes a serious statement of intent from this new band. The No Gravity line-up is completed by an equally skilled band. In addition to Simone Fiorlettas virtuoso guitar work we have second guitarist Davide Perruzza, keyboardist Andrea De Paoli, bassist Andrea Casali and drummer Marco Aiello who all form a formidable unit with instrumental prowess and the delivery to rival the genres big names. Full album info at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/worldsincollision.htm.   Latest Promotional Videos - Infinity Overture - Angels - Taken from the album 'The Infinite Overture pt.1', out now. Watch at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXMhQmpnnCs. Twinspirits - The Making Of Number One - Go behind the scenes for the making of the video for 'Number One' taken from the album 'The Forbidden City'. Watch at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Wu_TgQlVHI. SHOCKWAVES SKULLSESSIONS EPISODE #46: Shockwaves Skullsessions Episode #46: Aptly titled, Fanzines, Fanatics and Fetishes, this episode features a classic conversation about the early 80s metal fanzines and the tape-trading phenomena. Bob Nalbandian hosts this engaging discussion with some of the most notable metal fanzine journalists/publishers of the early 80s including Ron Quintana (Metal Mania), KJ Doughton (Northwest Metal), John Strednansky (Metal Rendezvous) and Steve Hammonds (White Lightning & Metal Forces UK). Direct link to episode: www.roadrunnerrecords.com/music/Shockwaves-Skull-Sessions. Link to Skullsessions on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/podcast/shockwaves-skull-sessions/id282478478. JOHN PARR ACOUSTIC SUPPORT SLOTS: John Parr will appear as very special guest of Richard Marx on his UK tour dates in May. John will perform a solo acoustic set as guest of Richard. Parr is also special guest of John Waite when he plays The Borderline in London on 8th May, again with a solo acoustic set. Meanwhile...a brand new exclusive version of Parr's 'Naughty, Naughty' will feature on the cover mount CD of May's edition of the bi-monthly Classic Rock Presents AOR Magazine (an offshoot of Class Rock Magazine) - Together with a full page Q&A interview with John. Issue on sale 6th May.   OZ TO SWEDEN ROCK FESTIVAL: Oz were formed in Finland in the late 70's and between the years 1982 and 1991 they released five albums and the cult single "Turn the cross upside down". The band were praised by the metal community, but their catchy brand of heavy metal never managed to break through to the mainstream consciousness. And then they met that same destiny that so many of the acts that later would come to get up on the stages at Sweden Rock Festival: the bands line-up fell apart, problems with the record label arose and the music scene changed, all while the band would, or could, not evolve. During the renaissance of criminally underrated, genuine heavy metal, that we have seen during the last few years OZ have been discovered by new generations of headbangers; giving classics like "Search lights", "Black candles" and "Turn the cross upside down" a new lease on life. 2011 sees the band return with the single and video for new the song "Dominator" and the quintet (with classic members Ape De Martini, Jay C Blade and Mark Ruffneck in the line-up) performing their first gigs since their return. Full show details: www.swedenrock.com. HOUSTON, CRASHDIET, SERPENTINE & MISS BEHAVIOUR LIVEIN UK: Houston is back in the UK after the successful one-off gig at the Borderline. This time its a 6 date tour together with Crashdiet, Serpentine & Miss Behaviour. The dates are: April 29 - Grimsby/Yardbirds April 30 - Nottingham/Rock City May 1 - Glasgow/ABC May 2 - Wigan/Club WN1 (formerly Maximes) May 3 - Bristol/Academy May 4 - London Islington/Academy Tickets at the venue and usual outlets.

 

 

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

LOST WEEKEND CALL IT A DAY: After 16 years of recording and performing British melodic rock band Lost Weekend have regretfully decided to call time on the bands sojourn. Lead vocalist Paul Uttley said "after much soul searching the band have decided that with other musical commitments we just cannot continue to keep the band going." . The band cites Guitarist Dave Thompson and Vocalist Paul Uttleys involvement in outside projects simply not allowing anytime to sustain the band, as well as all the other things we are involved in. "We had started outlining some fantastic song ideas but realized there were not enough hours in the day to afford us the time to put the album together. The band would like to thanks it's hardcore of loyal fans for the support over the years and also from fantastic magazines such as Firefest, Powerplay and webzines Melodicrock and such like for incredible coverage and positive journalism over the bands musical career. We will still be writing and recording in our respective paths and remain great friends. Thank you once again for 16 wonderful memorable years." JBJ vs STEVE JOBS PART 2: Industry commentator Moses Avalon has weighed in on the Jon Bon Jovi vs Steve Jobs debate. His view is somewhat different to that most others seem to have taken. So from his newsletter and website comes this: "Jon Bon Jovi has learned a lesson of the Internet age the hard way. The lesson he learned is that the techies, who wave the freedom-of-speech flag when it comes to music being free and net neutrality, are not so cool about free-speech when it criticizes one of their gods, like Steve Jobs. Indeed they respond rather childishly to just about anyone, no mater how famous, if even the slightest opinion about internet-related services is anything less than 10000000% positive. (Read what Bon Jovi said here.) Now, in the before-time no one cared what geeks thought. They were in the back room. But blogs have given them the big stick in the public debate. And they want respect. They are getting it and proving the old adage that power corrupts; using their new tools to silence and intimidate those that are a threat. If they agree with you, you are launched to the top of a mountain, if you disagree with their position, they can out SEO you, out blog you and make you look ridiculous in a mater of seconds across the entire globe. Now, most politicians and other public-people have learned this lesson years ago. Even I got a taste recently of how infantile some of these cats can get if you throw the slightest criticism at them. (I noticed an error in a Techdirt blog wherein they called IPS licensing fees, a "tax" for music. The guy freaked out on me and called me a "liar" all over Twitter.) These techies can not take it when you disagree with them. It shatters their entire foundation and they get nasty. But poor Jon Bon Jovi, must have missed this memo. He committed the most heinous crime that a person can commit in today's blog/news world; he committed the offense of being obvious; of saying what everyone in the know, knows but is afraid to say: iTunes is bad for music in the long run. Why, be afraid to say it? Well, you've no doubt seen the posts; because legions of keyboard jockeys will come after you in their blogs and virally disseminate a twisted version just to increase their Google rankings. They'll even Skype to each other while doing it and have a virtual party, with virtual booze and virtual girls. Now, what did Bon Jovi say that was so terrible? Well, he spoke the truth for one thing. iTunes has helped devalue the business model that made music an industry. It may not have started the fire, but it poured gasoline on it in gallons. Let's look at some iFacts: 1) iTunes has not, as some have suggested "saved the record business." iTunes has made up less than 10% of sales over the years since launch. 2) Nor did Steve Jobs "invent" a way for artists to get paid from the internet, (I think Al Gore did that.) 3) Finally, I believe it was Lawrence Lessig or some fool like him who promised—"If you give people a legal way to buy music they won't steel it." Remember that one? Not true: P2P file sharing did not decrease since iTunes went on-line — it actually increased. What iTunes did that sucks most for music is it destabilized the "album model." Yeah, yeah, I know, many of you think that that is good for the consumer, but it's really not in the long run. Not if you're a true music fan. Why? Point 1) Economics: It costs more to make less, which means less risks will be taken on new acts. If you remove the 80 cents or so that songwriters used to receive for each album sale and replace is with the 9 cents they get for a single, you don't have to be a math genius to see that you need to sell about seven times more units to break even on a promotion that costs $1,000,000 whether you release an album or a single; or, a production costing about $10,000/song to produce if you do an album, but $25,000/song is you go single-for-single. Yes, it costs majors the same money to promote a single as it does to promote an album and three times as much to record the equivalent amount of singles that an album composes. Add to that, that without the album economics you lose the 1:14 chance of one of the cuts becoming a hit and reduce those odds to 1:1. To duplicate the effect of an "album promotion" with singles, labels would have to spend more than ten times as much to have the same shot-gun effect that an album delivers. WHO CARES Why should indie artists care about majors and their costs? Well, now that it costs more to make less, these costs trickle down to everyone in the music food chain. To sell a single for 99 cents on iTunes the indie artist ends up netting about 64%. With a CD album sold at a local store for $14 the Artist/label took almost $10 home—almost 75%. Sold off the side of the stage for $10, the same indie artist took home almost all of it, save a $1, for manufacturing—90%. Big winner here— Apple. Point 2: Art. For those interested in music as an art, the devaluation of an album as an art form has neutered the musical experience. Deep cuts are dead for the future. This decreases the value of music as an experience and as a communication method. This disembowels artists from helping do what they are supposed to do— make the world a better place. They have been relieved of that job thanks to iTunes and P2P. Now they are just "content providers" and all we want from them are "hits" that are nice, radio safe singles. Great. When musicians were in charge of music they helped end wars and elevate social consciousness. Now it's in the hands of the techies. I can only pray they do not abuse this power. So far, I'm not impressed. How can anyone be, with a culture that does not value one of America's greatest cultural contributions-- pop music. This is what Jon Bon Jovi was really trying to say. What he probably meant with his comments was that the glory days of music are over. They are. It's true. And iTunes did accelerate the legitimacy of that decline more so than any other vehicle. But was it Steve's fault? No. Someone else would have done it eventually anyway. Jon, I feel ya brotha. I feel your pain. I kid you not when I say some of these guys are so cult-like in their Apple fanaticism that it would not surprise me if I read that an Apple fan threw a rock at your window. Get an extra body guard for a week or two and hire a great defamation lawyer. I have. ~ Mo out." Full Article & Comments at: www.mosesavalon.com/mosesblog/http:/www.mosesavalon.com/mosesblog/bon-voyage-bon-jovi-rock-star-blames-steve-jobs-for-music-biz-erosion/ MELODIC BRIEFS: Nightmare Records announces that Alberto Rigoni's new solo album "Rebirth" is going to be released on May 24th (Pushed back from previously stated April 26th) via Sony / RED distribution (North America) & Code 7/Plastichead (United Kingdom) Twilight -(G.A.S.), Bertus-(Netherlands-Europe). Meanwhile is now available a live video footage featuring Alberto Rigoni and John Macaluso (Ark, TNT, ex Yngwie Malmsteen, etc.) playing "Ontogeny", a song from the upcoming album. The video has been recorded during John Macaluso's italian clinic tour "The drumming of ARK" on sept. 25, 2010. More news coming soon. More info about the album at www.albertorigoni.net/alberto_rigoni_rebirth.php Jag Panzer - one of the true amercian heavy metal bands - release their new video "Burn". The track is taken from the much acclaimed new studio album "The Scourge Of The Light" - www.youtube.com/watch?v=ceA3o3a-IOg. "The Scourge Of The Light" is out now as standard version, double coloured vinyl and download on Steamhammer / SPV. www.jagpanzer.com / www.spv.de. A recent Marco Mendoza interview, from back just before Christmas, up at the site: chambersofrock.blogspot.com/2011/03/interview-with-marco-mendoza-thin-lizzy.html. On this weeks Hair Metal Haven, Chris Nelson will be bringing you the interview he did with FM at the Hard Rock Hell festival. Also on the show will be Saxon percussionist Nigel Glockler in another 18 & Life interview, and another chance for you to win 2 tickets for this years Firefest festival in Nottingham worth over £200. Saturday 19th March 17.00-19.00GMT www.phoenixradio.co.uk. VIRGIN STEELE "NOBLE SAVAGE" RE-ISSUE: SPV / Steamhammer is proud to re-release one of heavy metals most iconic records of all time: Virgin Steele's Noble Savage. This re-release comes with 19 bonus tracks, 12 of them previously unreleased. And since 1986 the first time again on Vinyl! Noble Savage is the third album from the American heavy metal band Virgin Steele. David DeFeis claims, "Noble Savage is an extremely important album in the history of Virgin Steele. It was a major accomplishment for us at the time that it was recorded, and an immensely satisfying recording that I feel still holds up quite well today. It was the most focused, most well recorded, written and performed album we had done up to that point in our career. For me it is really our first album". This is also the first album where the current musical style of the band can be said to be found fully manifested, containing grandiose compositions with a multilayered keyboard sound and more sophisticated arrangements than heard before on previous albums. Noble Savage has become one of the most popular Virgin Steele albums and it includes the songs "We Rule the Night" and "Noble Savage", which the band still plays in concert. Tracklisting: - Double digipak incl. new booklet with rare photos and new liner notes by David DeFeis - CD 1 01. We Rule The Night 02. I´m On Fire 03. Thy Kingdom Come 04. Image Of A Faun At Twilight (instrumental) 05. Noble Savage 06. Fight Tooth And Nail 07. The Evil In her Eyes 08. Rock Me 09. Don`t Close Your Eyes 10. The Angel Of Light 11. Obession (It Burns For You) - bonus track 12. Love And Death - bonus track 13. Where Are You Running To - bonus track 14. Come On And Love Me - bonus track 15. The Spirit Of Steele - bonus track 16. The Pyre of Kings (instrumental) - bonus track. CD 2 – Extra Noble Ingredients 01. To The Devil A Daughter – previously unreleased 02. God Of Violence Kill - previously unreleased 03. Viking - previously unreleased 04. Ase`s Death (instrumental) - previously unreleased 05. Bitches From Hell - previously unreleased 06. Fight Tooth And Nail (Roman Sword Re-Mix) - bonus track 07. Tales From The Hammer - previously unreleased 08. We Rule The Night (live pre-production rehearsal) - previously unreleased 09. I´m On Fire (live pre-production rehearsal) - previously unreleased 10. Fight Tooth And Nail (live pre-production rehearsal) - previously unreleased 11. Rock Me (live pre-production rehearsal) - previously unreleased 12. We Rule The Night (Bigger gongs & Bombs early rough mix version) - previously unreleased 13. Noble Savage (Flanging To Eternity early rough mix version) - previously unreleased.

 

 

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

JBJ: STEVE JOBS IS PERSONALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR KILLING THE MUSIC BUSINESS: Jon Bon Jovi accuses Steve Jobs of putting a shot through the heart of music, stating "Steve Jobs is Personally Responsible for Killing the Music Business..." - bit.ly/f4ZAZI. Coverage from: www.digitalmusicnews.com/stories/031411jovi: "Not so long ago, Steve Jobs was hailed as a savior of the music industry. But that was before digital didn't pan out, and before everyone realized that Apple was really making billions off of devices - while piggybacking music. Now, Jobs is just another bogeyman. And even music's elite - and very rich - are harboring ill will. "Steve Jobs is personally responsible for killing the music business," Jon Bon Jovi ranted to the Sunday Times Magazine. "I hate to sound like an old man now, but I am, and you mark my words, in a generation from now people are going to say: 'What happened?'" Well, a lot of things happened, and Jobs is just one part of that disruption. But it's still unclear whether digital distribution has really hurt Bon Jovi in the end. After all, the wheels of discovery are more lubricated than ever, and Bon Jovi mints hundreds of millions in touring income annually. In fact, Pollstar ranked the band first among all touring acts last year, with receipts of nearly $150 million in North America alone. Of course, many of those attendees were born long after "Livin' on a Prayer," and have discovered Bon Jovi through digital channels. Still, Bon Jovi feels that an essential part of the experience is now missing. "Kids today have missed the whole experience of putting the headphones on, turning it up to 10, holding the jacket, closing their eyes and getting lost in an album; and the beauty of taking your allowance money and making a decision based on the jacket, not knowing what the record sounded like, and looking at a couple of still pictures and imagining it." FIREFEST 2011 NEWS: SERPENTINE ADDED TO THE FRIDAY SHOW: It's with great pleasure that we can announce the addition of Serpentine to the bill for the Firefest Friday show at Rock City in Nottingham on October 21. Following an impressive performance at the Borderline in London last weekend the UK melodic rockers will open Firefest 2011 on a bill that also includes Houston, Terry Brock and headliner Jimi Jamison. At their first ever live show, Serpentine - with new singer Matt Black replacing popular TNT and Shy vocalist Tony Mills - acquitted themselves well between the excellent Vega and Swedish favourites Houston, gaining praise from the likes of Dave Ling (Classic Rock), Rob Evans (Powerplay) and Firefest organiser Kieran Dargan. Therefore it seemed only fair that the band - completed by keyboard player Gareth David Noon, bassist Gareth Vanstone, guitarist Chris Gould and drummer Roy Millward - will join Vega and Houston in the line-up of Firefest, which members of the band have supported and attended since its inception. The band released their debut album 'A Touch Of Heaven' in 2010 to many great reviews, including the top mark (92%) in that month's edition of Burrn! magazine in Japan. The follow-up is in the closing stages of completion and will again feature Tony Mills on lead vocals, with Matt Black supplying backing vocals this time out before fronting the band on album number three. Tony will continue to work with Serpentine in a songwriting role and has fully endorsed Matt as his replacement to enable the band to step into the live arena, which due to Tony's TNT schedule he was unable to commit to. Of course the extra band means an earlier start to the show, with doors opening at 5pm and Serpentine taking the stage at 5.30pm, so hopefully everyone attending will have ample time to make arrangements to get there early and see an extra band for the same bargain price. Tickets for Friday are still available at www.thefirefest.com for £25, with tickets for the Saturday and Sunday shows also available at £55 per day. Tickets are continuing to sell amazingly well, so thanks once again for your continued support and we hope you're as pleased about our latest addition as we are. Best wishes from the Firefest team." MELODIC BRIEFS: It seems Yoso is over. Bobby Kimball has pulled the plug on his involvement with the band. Updates shortly. As Tweeted by @philkcollen earlier today - Phil Collen is in London w/Manraze finishing up their new album out this summer! Phil will be all warmed up for DL's tour! Check out a new Crashdïet demo bound to fall @ www.crashdiet.org/downloads. Multinational Melodic Metallers Eden's Curse have posted a new song exclusively for their fans to download - Saints Of Tomorrow: www.reverbnation.com/c./poni/33290126. The band release their third studio album Trinity via AFM Records (Europe), Metal Mayhem Music (USA) and Spiritual Beast (Japan) on 18th March. NEW REVIEWS ADDED: Some big reviews online today! New Reviews are online now for: Whitesnake, Eden's Curse, Ten, Scheepers, Robin Beck, Benedictum and Paul Young. Read The Reviews Now.

 

 

Monday, March 14, 2011

ESCAPE MUSIC RE-INTRODUCE LIAR CLASSICS: Escape Music are Pleased to announce the release of the two classic albums by Liar - Straight From The Hip & Set The World On Fire. Re-mastered 24 bit, Special Limited Edition Digipack Double CD with 2 Bonus Track, all the lyrics, photos and liner notes. Release Date: TBA Liar: Dave Burton (vocals and guitar) / Dave Taylor (bass and vocals) / Paul Travis (guitar and vocals) / Steve Mann (lead guitar, keyboards) / Clive Brooks (drums). CD1: Straight From The Hip: Track List: 1- Soft Lights, Sweet Music 2-Straight From The Hip Kid 3-Roll Me Down 4-Rich Man's Woman 5- Try Loving, 6-Chicago Shakedown 7-Full Time Woman 8-Born to Rock & Roll 9-Lights On The City* Bonus track. CD2: Set The World On Fire track Lists: 1-Set The World On Fire 2- Town Of Evil People 3-I'm Calling You 4-Midnight Promises 5-Five Knuckle Shuffle 6-High Life 7-Frustration 8-Who Cares 9- Blame It On The Kids* Bonus track. Liar was formed in 1975 in Maidenhead in Berkshire by David Taylor. In 1976 the band came to the attention of Chris Demetriou, then a freelance producer and A&R man for Decca records. Demetriou took the band into Decca's West Hampstead studios, inviting singer/ guitarist Paul Travis, with whom he had worked on a number of previous occasions, to sit in with them to help with song arrangements and also to provide a channel of communication between studio and control room. Following various personnel changes, the line-up for the first album, Straight from the Hip, comprised David Burton, lead vocals and guitar, David Taylor, bass and vocals, Paul Travis guitar and vocals, and Clive Brooks, previously of Egg and The Groundhogs on drums. Lead guitar was provided on a session basis by Geoff Whitehorn, then working with Crawler, although at the time of the album's release this role had been filled by Steve Mann, subsequently with Lionheart, MSG and the Sweet, who completed the final line-up. The album was recorded at Decca's West Hampstead Studio 2, although one of the tracks was almost lost when engineer Graham Meek and assistant Nick Raymonde, having been assigned the task of editing together the choruses from one take and the verses from another, managed to do the opposite. The mistake was immediately spotted and the correct sections retrieved from the waste bin and hastily re-edited together. Following the album's release in 1977, the band undertook an initial tour of the UK with Slade, followed by two European tours, taking in Holland and Germany. A three week tour of Hungary, sharing the stage with top Hungarian band Piramis, helped to define the stage act and unite the band, and the final gig of this tour, in Budapest, was watched by an audience of 35,000. A second album was proposed, with production being handed over to John Alcock, who had previously worked with Thin Lizzy amongst others. The management reins were taken up by Del Taylor of Delta Artist Management, who also managed Alexis Korner and Jim Diamond. This album was recorded at the Who's now defunct Ramport studios in Battersea, London, and a more sophisticated album emerged, occasionally featuring strings, with some extended tracks and some segueing. Feeling that the band would benefit from signing to a more progressive label, manager Taylor arranged a gig at Hatfield University, to which significant figures from the record industry were invited, unknown to the band. The gig evoked great interest from a number of companies, with the result was that the band left Decca and signed to Albert Grossman's Bearsville records, for what was believed to have been the largest advance paid to an unknown band. The album was released in 1978, with a single 'Set the World on Fire', and following a promotional visit to the US by Burton and Taylor, the band undertook a tour of the former Yugoslavia in order to fine-tune the stage work, in preparation for a nationwide tour of the United States with American band Styx. The album was so well received in the US that it became at one point the third most played album coast to coast in the Billboard airplay charts with the headline 'Third National Breakout', behind Bob Dylan's Street Legal and the Who's Who Are You. Following the heavy airplay the album entered the album charts, and despite strong opposition from the band, who felt that the now excellent stage act would go down well in the USA, a decision was made to pull out of the Styx tour in the belief that continued sales would mean that the band would soon be able to headline on their own. However the non-appearance of the band in the USA meant that airplay soon tailed off and the album sank out of sight. Following this disappointment, a decision was made by Delta and Bearsville that the best course of action would be to record another album. It was decided that recording in California might result in a West Coast influence on material, and also that the label management would be able to keep a closer eye on its development. In late 1978 therefore, the band took up temporary residence in a house at the top of Sunset Plaza Drive in Hollywood, and a third album was recorded at Stevie Wonder's Crystal Studios in Los Angeles, again produced by John Alcock, who had by this time taken up residence in Los Angeles. Although the album contained some excellent material, it was felt that it lacked an obvious single, and talks concerning policy between management and Bearsville eventually broke down. At one point A&M considered signing the band, but the deal fell through at the last moment. During this contractual wrangling the band returned to the UK, and undertook an extensive and extremely successful sell out tour with UFO. However, despite critical acclaim and the success of the tour, which culminated in two nights at what was then the Hammersmith Odeon (now the Apollo), it proved impossible to find a solution to the band's contractual problems, and Liar folded; the Hammersmith Odeon gig on the 16th February 1979 becoming their last. And as for that elusive third album? Well maybe it will just see the light of day!! Discography: Straight from the Hip (Decca) 1977 / Set the World on Fire (Bearsville) 1978 + Third (unreleased) album. LabelLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   xx NEW GARY MOORE DOCUMENTARY ON THE WAY: "White Knuckles & Blue Moods is a documentary feature about Gary Moore's career and his influence on other rock and blues guitarists. Jörgen Holmstedt and Stefan Mossberg have been working on the film for several years. It features contributions from Don Airey, Jon Hiseman, John Sykes, Brian Downey, Eric Bell, Brian Robertson and Gary Moore himself. White Knuckles and Blue Moods will be around an hour long and is due for release later this year." Trailer on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIIOUF_DBHA&hd=1. EXCLUSIVE WORLD PREMIERE OF NEW IMAGES OF EDEN SONG: Hardrock Haven is premiering a track from the new Images of Eden release Rebuilding the Ruins. Lead singer Gordon Tittsworth: "Rebuilding The Ruins is a concept CD about gaining wisdom/ strength from our past experiences and overcoming traumatic events in our lives until we learn all that we are here on this Earth to learn. Only then is it time to move on …" 'Crosses In The Sand' is the first track off of Rebuilding The Ruins, which picks up exactly where 'Midnight's Tide' left off (the final track on the previous CD, 'Sunlight of the Spirit'). The song is (in a broad sense) about forgiving yourself for something in your past that haunts you, specifically from a traumatic decision you may have made that inevitably turned into a huge regret. The song is actually written about something specific, but written in a way to open the door of interpretation to others. The 'crosses' that I'm referring are actually metaphors for 'headstones' covering our past demons and regrets. Being carved 'in the sand' represents the fact they are not permanent markings, and that we can get beyond them, essentially 'let the waves wash them away' until they are completely erased from our memory (or conscience). Essentially, we lay our regrets to rest and 'bury them in the sand.' This goes back to the quote on the CD tray card of, 'There are times when war is absolutely necessary in order to achieve peace, especially if this war is internal. Our wounds will never heal if we cannot bleed.'" Read Hardrock Haven's review of Rebuilding the Ruins: hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/images-of-eden-rebuilding-the-ruins/, and listen to the audio interview with frontman Tittsworth as well: hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/gordon-tittsworth-of-images-of-eden-2/. Images of Eden official: www.imagesofeden.com.

 

 

Friday, March 11, 2011

NEW OVERDRIVE LP - "THE ANGELMAKER'S DAUGHTER" OUT IN MARCH: On March 25 Swedish heavy metal band OVERDRIVE will release the listening companion to the new CD Angelmaker (released on February 21, 2011 on Lion Music). The album is entitled The Angelmaker's Daughter and it's a vinyl only release, limited to 300 hand-numbered copies in three different colours. The LP contains six previously unreleased tracks, all recorded for the latest CD in 2010, plus three tracks from the CD. "These are the tracks that didn't make it on the CD "Angelmaker". Not because they were bad, but for various other reasons such as we didn't want two long epic songs on the CD, a couple of songs were a bit too similar in style, one was a bit too different in style etc. However the combination of these songs, plus three tracks carefully selected from the CD to fit the formula, has made this an album we feel very proud of", says guitarist Janne Stark. The LP will be released by the band themselves and can be pre-ordered directly from the band at: booking@overdrive.se. The release of "The Angelmaker's Daughter" will be celebrated at Club Stairway To Heaven in Malmö, Sweden, on March 25, where the band will perform live, supported by hard rockers Carnival Sun (who will also releases their debut on vinyl at this occasion). The LP also comes with an insert with photos and lyrics. A special version including a sew-on patch is also available. Title: "The Angelmaker's Daughter" (ODLP2002) Track list: Brand New Sinner (Stark) * It's Not As Easy As It Seems (Instrumental) (Jacobsson) * Short Moments (Jacobsson) * Call The Priest (Eriksson/Stark) * Show Your Love (Jacobsson) * Run Out (Jacobsson) * Angelmaker (Stark) To Grow (Karlsson) In Gut We Trust (Stark) *Exclusive vinyl tracks.   STRYPER'S MICHAEL SWEET TALKS ABOUT THE "RIDICULOUS" GOOD OLD DAYS: Stryper has returned to its classic lineup for its just-released album The Covering, which features the band's new versions of songs by some its earliest influences including Kiss, Black Sabbath, Judas Priest and Iron Maiden. In a new interview with Sterling Whitaker of Examiner.com, front man Michael Sweet said recording the new album was nothing like the lavish productions of Stryper's commercial peak. The band recorded The Covering all together in a studio in Massachusetts, and then Sweet tracked the lead vocals at home before bringing it all together in the final mix. He said that advances in recording technology allow bands now to record top-notch albums affordably. "You go back to the old days, we would spend three or four hundred thousand dollars. I think our most expensive album, we spent about $626,000 on In God We Trust," Sweet recalled. "We had a $650,000 budget, so each guy pocketed maybe three or four grand out of that, which was ridiculous. We were going out to eat fancy lunches and dinners the whole time, and really spent a lot on that record. But nowadays you can make an incredible record, a really great, great record, for twenty, twenty-five, thirty thousand dollars." The singer said Stryper will perform four or five songs from The Covering on its upcoming tour, along with some surprises for longtime fans. "And then we're adding four new Stryper songs that we haven't played since the 80s," he revealed. "It's been years. So it's gonna be a cool set." Listen to the interview here. ADRIAN ENGLISH - INNERPLANETARIUM SET FOR MARCH 15: The long awaited follow-up to his debut CD A.D.D.,releases March 15th. Titled Innerplanetarium, this release shows a more melodic side to the seven string shredder. Thirteen track under the watchful eye of producer Frank Klepacki, and backed by a full band, this release is sure to be one of the top guitar releases of the year. Adrian English was recently featured on the front page at GuitarWorld.com giving listeners a tour of his recording equipment. Listeners will now have a chance to hear these instruments on a full, well produced release! Pre-orders for a special price and free shipping are being offered by Shredguy Records online store at www.shredguyrecords.bigcartel.com.   MELODIC BRIEFS: It looks like Terry Ilous is back fronting Great White again: www.biggtimeinc.com/greatwhite.htm. Halestorm is releasing a covers EP on March 22 via their website. When you order, you get an instant download of Slave to the Grind. Track Listing: 1. Slave To The Grind - Skid Row 2. Bad Romance - Lady Gaga 3. Hunger Strike - Temple Of The Dog 4. Out Ta Get Me - Guns 'N' Roses 5. All I Wanna Do Is Make Love To You - Heart 6. I Want You (She's So Heavy) - The Beatles. www.halestormrocks.com. Remember the global Super Smash "F**k You" as made famous by Ce Lo Green and charted in 26 countries? BUT, that was the Rap – R&B – Soul – Urban version! NOW, listen to it Rock N' Roll with Rod Stewarts "Maggy May" as the mash up ending! That's right Vains Of Jenna has made "F**k you" go rock n' roll! This video and song will leaving you singing all F**king day long! www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-cjwC8jTe0. The smash single off "Reverse Tripped" the new release on Deadline Records! Hits the streets April 5 everywhere on CD, Digital, and Special Edition 12" Vinyl Record!   ERNIE BALL ANNOUNCES 15TH ANNUAL BATTLE OF THE BANDS COMPETITION: Press Release / Ernie Ball Inc., the world's premier string and accessory manufacturer, today announced the launch of its 15th annual Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands. In the largest and longest-running unsigned artist competition of its kind, Ernie Ball will give talented, undiscovered artists worldwide a platform to play live on the 2011 Vans Warped Tour and win a 3-song EP with multi-platinum producer Matt Squire, in addition to an incredible prize package which includes a $15,000 Guitar Center shopping spree. Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands is entering its 15th year of providing a platform for thousands of undiscovered bands to get mainstream exposure. The competition continues to transform Ernie Ball Music Man's legacy of encouraging growth, quality and opportunity in music by supporting unsung talent. "We truly believe that live music is the lifeblood of our industry," said Brian Ball, of Ernie Ball Inc. "Over the past 15 years, we've been committed to providing a springboard for emerging talent to play live and enhance their exposure. In partnership with the Vans Warped Tour, we couldn't be more excited to launch the 15th Annual Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands." To enter the competition, bands can sign up at www.BattleoftheBands.com and upload music and create their artist profiles, beginning today. The deadline to submit music is June 1st, at which time a panel of judges will select the bands that show the most promise, focusing on musicianship and songwriting, and will offer them an opportunity to perform live on Vans Warped Tour 2011. There are four slots at each stop on the tour. In 2010, 186 bands were chosen to perform on the tour, selected from almost 16,000 entries, and 2011 promises to be even bigger. Ernie Ball's panel of expert judges will also review each show on the tour, selecting the top four from across the country to compete in Hollywood at the Vans Warped Tour official after party taking place at the end of 2011. After playing for celebrity judges and a who's who of music industry legends, America's best undiscovered band will take home an exclusive prize package and the title of "2011 Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands Champion". The Grand Prize Package Includes: · $15,000 Shopping Spree at Guitar Center · 3-Song EP with producer Matt Squire · 2-Week Slot on Vans Warped Tour 2012 · One year of paid TuneCore service · Custom Atticus Apparel Package & Custom Vans Shoes · Select Music Man instruments · Ernie Ball Guitar and Bass Strings Ernie Ball has joined forces with a host of partners to make this competition the opportunity of a lifetime for aspiring artists. With the help of Van's, ReverbNation, Guitar Center, Electro-Voice, TuneCore and Atticus, Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands 2011 offers more impressive prizes and even more opportunities for bands to get the exposure they deserve than ever before. The top four bands will also be invited to play at Vans Warped Tour 2012. For more information on Battle of the Bands, including stories behind recent competitions, visit www.BattleoftheBands.com. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: CD Showcase has been updated with the two latest new Lion Music releases - Overdrive and Twinspirits. Check them out now. STILL COMING: I have prepared 7 new reviews, but due to a couple of small health issues haven't been able to complete them in time for today. Watch for those Tuesday. Also coming up is still more CD Showcases and news of the next two MelodicRock Records releases should be ready to print next week. I have received a few enquires from folks following up on recent orders placed. The recent CD Sale proved very successful and has created a backlog of orders needing to be shipped. ALL ORDERS placed will be in the air by Monday, so they could be expected soon after that. Apologies for the delay. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Skid Row - Slave To The UK (Live 1991)(Killer show supporting Guns N Roses) - The Angels - Live to Air Sydney Australia 1982 (Vintage show with the band in top form) - White Sister - Unreleased (5 unreleased demos from the vault.) - Feature Video - Mr. Big Japan 96 (23 Live Tracks! Back by request...) Join MRX now and help support MelodicRock.com.

 

 

Thursday, March 10, 2011

IT'S BLACK 'N BLUE TIME! HELL YEAH! FINALLY SCHEDULED FOR RELEASE ON FRONTIERS: Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of the new album from Portland-based Rockers Black 'N Blue on May 13 in Europe and May 17 in North America. Hell Yeah! is a proud comeback statement for a band that wrote the pages of hard rock history in the 80's. Black 'N Blue released four successful and critically-acclaimed albums through Geffen Records: their self-titled debut (1984), "Without Love" (1985), "Nasty Nasty" (1986), and "In Heat" (1987), with the latter two albums produced by the legendary Gene Simmons of KISS. Catalogue sales in the US were in excess of one million units and the band's original guitar player Tommy Thayer went on to replace Ace Frehley in the current KISS lineup. Black 'N Blue reunited for the first time in 2003 under the initiative of singer Jaime St. James, when he began writing tracks for a new album along with original member, Jef "Woop" Warner. The process came to a halt when St. James joined Warrant as their new lead vocalist in February of 2004. In recent years, Jaime has been releasing records and touring the world with Warrant. In late 2008, plans to get back into the studio and finish the "Hell Yeah!" album were underway, as well as festival appearances and other touring. "The band's line-up is all original except Shawn Sonnenschein", tells Jaime St. James "but he has been in the band now for about 8 years. Still the new guy....Jeez!". Black 'N Blue recently joined the ever-expanding roster of Frontiers Records. "Hell Yeah!" goes back to the roots of the "classic" Black 'N Blue sound, mixing tight and hard rocking songs with a sleazy attitude. "This new album is a real thrill for us and all of the BNB fans" says St. James. "Our last studio recording was in 1988 so it's a big deal. This is a classic BNB-sounding CD and could be described as a cross between all our previous records. It is heavy for the most part, but I like to think it reminds me of our first album. That's why we brought back the original logo. We just modernized it". Black 'N Blue will make a special live appearance at the M3 Rock Festival at the Merryweather Post Pavilion in Columbus MD on May 14. More shows and festivals to be announced. The new album "Hell Yeah!" will include the following tracks: Monkey; Target; Hail Hail; Fool's Bleed; C'mon; Jaime's Got The Beer; Angry Drunk Son Of A Bitch; So Long; Trippin'; Falling Down; Candy; Hell Yeah!; World Goes Round. WebLinks: www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords / www.myspace.com/blacknblueofficial.   xx THE VOICE OF THE TIGER IN GERMANY: You can check out both new Jimi Jamison solo tracks - The Restless Kind + Tears in my eyes - by clicking here: www.voice-of-the-tiger.de. The tracks look to be in support of a larger push into Germany and upcoming solo dates, where Jimi and Survivor have always had a strong footing. There is a Germany language homepage at: www.voice-of-the-tiger.de, with a sort English translation available: "There are everlasting hits. These definitely include Eye of the Tiger and Burning Heart, which were not only the popular soundtracks of the famous Rocky movies with Sylvester Stallone – they also had a decisive influence on the Rock sound of the 1980's. Beyond doubt the theme song of the most watched TV show in the world Baywatch, Jimi Jamison's first solo hit I'm always here is a timeless one. All this is just a small part of the creative work by Jimi Jamison as an American outstanding singer – with his former bands Survivor, Target and Cobra as well as solo. Jimi Jamison brings the classic Rock sound of the 1980's and early 1990's on stage again and makes the 80's Rock revive, which were marked by anthem-like songs that were able to build true sound-cathedrals – that inevitably carried along their listeners with their pulsating rhythms and catchy melodies. Voice Of The Tiger means Jimi Jamison in a maximum size – with brilliant musicians and breathtaking female background singers. SURVIVOR and Jimi Jamison are still thrilling the people of today. Jimi Jamison is back for an exclusive concerts series in Germany named Voice Of The Tiger!" AOR HEAVEN ANNOUNCE NEW ELEVENER & JOSEPH WILLIAMS RELEASES: Below, you find the key information about the May releases from AOR Heaven. AOR Heaven would like to send congrats to Swiss Rockers Sideburn who debuted at the Swiss Music album chart this week at #81. Williams/Friestedt - Williams/Friestedt / Release date: 27.05.2011 / TOTO singer Joseph Williams and acclaimed guitarist/songwriter Peter Friestedt team up for a new remarkable AOR release! The record combines Williams' outstanding vocal performances with Friestedt's top notch guitar work and superbly crafted arrangements. Joseph Williams was the lead vocalist with Toto during the mid-to-late 1980s ("Fahrenheit", 1986 and "The Seventh One" – 1988). He also has been busy as a composer of film and drama scores, as a session vocalist, backing singer for the band Chicago and can be heard in Disney's animated feature film "The Lion King" as singing voice of the adult Simba ("Hakuna Matata" and "Can You Feel The Love Tonight"). Guitarist, composer, producer, major label recording artist Peter Friestedt has released two critically acclaimed albums "LA Project" (2002) and "LA Project II" (2008) that got top reviews and were called 'best Westcoast records' in years. Peter has recently toured with Chicago singer Bill Champlin, Toto singer Joseph Williams and Michael Ruff. "Working with Joseph is always a treat, we've been doing concerts in Scandinavia together and during this period the idea of doing a whole record together was brought up", Peter comments and continues: "It's been an exciting process making this record. The great contributions and dedicated work from songwriters and musicians resulted in a record exceeding all expectations". Joseph's extraordinary vocals beautifully shine with impeccable background vocals arranged by Joseph, Bill Champlin and Lars Säfsund (Work Of Art). The line-up includes guests such as former Chicago singer Bill Champlin, Tommy Denander, John "JR" Robinson, Randy Goodrum and Bill Cantos. "Williams/ Friestedt" was produced by Peter Friestedt and co-produced by Joseph Williams with executive production handled by Joey Carbone; mixed by Ronni Lahti (Talisman, Lake Of Tears) and mastered by Björn Engelmann (Rammstein, Roxette). During Summer 2011, Joseph Williams once again will tour as lead vocalist with Toto. Soundfiles in advance: Say Goodbye / Swear Your Love / Where To Touch You. WebLinks: www.peterfriestedt.com / www.josephwilliams.totoweb.org.   xx Elevener - Symmetry In Motion - Release date: 27.05.2011 / Elevener came to life as childhood friends Johan Bergquist (vocals, keyboards, bass) and Andreas Brodén (guitar, drums) joined forces in 2005 to make new music sounding as if the 90's never had existed. The duo released the Elevener debut-album "When Kaleidoscopes Collide" in July 2008 on AOR Heaven. "When Kaleidoscopes Collide" generated rave reviews and was one of the most talked about debut albums on the AOR scene that year. In January 2010, guitarist Magnus Lindqvist heard the Elevener debut and through a mutual friend. He and Johan got together and soon realized they shared the same taste and ambitions in music and Lindqvist replaced Brodén who had left the project due to other commitments. As the hunt for the missing pieces began, Johan came to think of drummer Anton Roos (Saffire) whom he had seen playing on the Gothenburg club scene in early 2010. Thanks to Magnus having played on the cover band circuit with singer Pierre Wensberg (Prisoner, Tommy Denander, Heartbreak Radio) and bass player Robert Garnold (Heartbreak Radio) were asked to join and to Johan's delight Elevener had now evolved into a full band. The new line-up started recording in late 2010, and in February 2011 they hooked up with Martin Kronlund at JM Studios (Paul Young, Phenomena, Overland etc.) to put the finishing touches on the new album called "Symmetry in Motion". Soundfiles in advance: Hypnotized / Just As Thought / Written In Your Eyes. WebLinks: www.elevener.com / www.myspace.com/elevenelevenagain.   xx BRET MICHAELS SOLO ALBUM FINALLY SET TO ROCK : Just posted to: www.billboard.com/news/bret-michaels / "Just as his myriad health problems didn't stop him from releasing a new album ("Custom Built") and winning "Celebrity Apprentice" last year, Bret Michaels isn't letting heart surgery slow him down this year, either. The veteran rocker will be on the road this year, including a summer jaunt with Mötley Crüe and the New York Dolls, celebrating his band Poison's 25th anniversary. He'll also tour on his own, release a new solo album in May as well as a new Poison compilation, host a cruise in November and continue work on his autobiography, "Roses & Thorns." "I feel absolutely great, man," Michaels, who underwent surgery in January to repair a hole in his heart, tells Billboard.com. "I'm up, I'm walking, I'm exercising. Considering how much my body's been through since last April, I feel pretty damn good. I feel lucky. It just wasn't my time." It is time, however, for new Michaels' music. Coming on the heels of "Custom Built" is "Get Your Rock On," which he says is full of "a lot of really straight-up, in-your-face, well-produced, contemporary just good rock songs. It mixes a little bit of the classic elements with some new sounds." Featuring all originals, Michaels says his sixth solo album hits harder than its predecessors. "With the other albums I did, I always put a little bit of Americana and contemporary country into the music," he explains, "influences and stuff from Lynyrd Skynyrd to Mellencamp and Garth Brooks mixed in with my Aerosmith and AC/DC. This one is primarily straight-up rock songs, which I think people will like. I've written a lot of good stuff over the last few years that I think are just good rock songs. I feel really strong about it." As the new album comes out, Michaels is looking forward to "making a strange kind of history" by touring both on his own and with Poison. His solo dates begin Mar. 19 in Arizona, including some shows with actor Kevin Costner and his band Modern West. Poison, meanwhile, gets under way on May 25 in Biloxi, Miss., before joining the Crüe tour June 7 in Dallas. Poison is also planning to release "A Double Dose of Poison," which Michaels says will feature "greatest hits...and a lot of the B-sides and different stuff on there. It's basically commemorative of the 25th anniversary and sort of like a CD program of the songs we'll be doing" on tour. No new Poison music is planned yet, but Michaels notes that he and bandmates C.C. DeVille, Rikki Rockett and Bobby Dall are "closer this year than we've been in years. We've all been on the phone, talking about the songs we're gonna play and the stuff we started out having fun doing. It's a good feeling. I think it's going to be a kick-ass summer." He's also looking forward to being on the road with Mötley Crüe, even though there have been some harsh words exchanged over the years, and even recently, between the two camps. "I know Mötley Crüe made some derogatory statements early on when I mentioned us doing this (tour) together," says Michaels, who tipped the tour last summer. "But I've spoken with Nikki (Sixx) several times on the phone now, and really, the truth of the matter is that rock fans spoke up and said what a great tour this will be, to see those bands with that kind of energy and stage shows. So I want to go out this summer, regardless of what's been said and what's been done...Really, it means nothing to me. What matters is I go out and have fun with my band on our 25th anniversary. That's all." Amidst all this, Michaels -- who's also planning to release a vocal warm-up CD for aspiring singers -- is continuing to work on the oft-delayed autobiography, "Roses & Thorns." But, he notes, "every time I turn around, I've got a new chapter to add. Just the medical condition alone is worth the last half of the book. I promise I'm going to get you bits and pieces to read. I'm just gonna give you stuff -- 'Read this!' Really, it'll get out some day, but so much happens to me, and how do you leave any of it out?" MASS UPCOMING EVENTS & SHOWS: On Saturday March 12, Boston rockers Mass will be presented with the "Legends Award" from Limelight Magazine! Limelight Magazine is a quarterly music publication that is distributed throughout New England. Recently a poll was conducted for the annual music awards show and hard rock band Mass were the overwhelming vote getters to receive this year's Legend Award, which is given to performer who has been around for at least 25 years and is still going strong! March 12, Event "Legends Award" at Club Hell, Rhode Island. March 26 at "Showcase Live" with Stryper, in Foxboro, Massachusetts. September 23 at "Maddys" in Saugus, Massachusetts. July 23 (Rock 101 FM) outdoor benefit show in Auburn, New Hampshire. More shows to be announced! WebLinks: www.massrocks.com / www.facebook.com/masstheband.   AC/DC ANNOUNCE NEW LIVE DVD: From Gibson.com as posted by Bryan Wawzenek: "To chronicle their enormously successful Black Ice World Tour (currently ranked as the second-highest grossing tour in history), AC/DC are releasing AC/DC Live at River Plate on DVD and Blu-ray. The concert movie will be released on May 9 in the U.K. and May 10 in the U.S. Live at River Plate was filmed during three shows at Buenos Aires' River Plate Stadium in December of 2009, according to NME.com. AC/DC played before more than 200,000 people during the three-night stand. It was the band's first appearance in Argentina in 13 years. The DVD and Blu-ray editions will each feature 19 songs over the course of 110 minutes. There will be an assortment of behind-the-scenes material on each disc as well. Live at River Plate track list: "Rock N' Roll Train" "Hell Ain't a Bad Place to Be" "Back in Black" "Big Jack" "Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap" "Shot Down in Flames" "Thunderstruck" "Black Ice" "The Jack" "Hells Bells" "Shoot to Thrill" "War Machine" "Dog Eat Dog" "You Shook Me All Night Long" "T.N.T." "Whole Lotta Rosie" "Let There Be Rock" "Highway to Hell" "For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)". WebLink: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/ac-dc-live-0309-2011.   BAND TOURING NORTH AMERICA ALL YEAR: The unusual band name refers to an apparently particularly love-hungry lady named Molly Hatchet, who lived in the 17th century and had her lovers decapitated after enjoying their favours. In 1978, the band signed their first recording deal and sold almost a million copies of their self-titled debut release. Molly Hatchet went on tour with Aerosmith and Bob Seeger that same year, and their second album release Flirtin' With Disaster (1979) followed twelve months later. Their third album Beatin' The Odds (1981) was a commercial success, selling over two million copies and entering the Billboard charts at no. 25. The group's unmistakable trade mark is the warrior who appears on their album sleeves and was designed by the American fantasy artist, Frank Frazetta. Their fourth offering, Take No Prisoners (1981), made it directly into the Billboard charts. Two years later, Molly Hatchet presented their exceptional No Guts ... No Glory (including the anthem 'Fall Of The Peacemakers'). Their 1984 The Deed Is Done was the first release to meet with mixed reactions. While some attested the album with Hatchet's typical blues rock and boogie feel, others criticized its all-too-polished sound. However, Molly Hatchet managed to reunite their fan base again with their live release Double Trouble Live (1985), recorded in Dallas and Jacksonville. Their eighth album, Lightning Strikes Twice, saw the light of day four years later, followed by an almost seven year sabbatical, which came to an end with Devil's Canyon in 1996. "After all those years, it was still a great feeling to pick up a guitar, connect it to an amp and start playing", Ingram rejoiced at the successful comeback. "Devil's Canyon put us back on the rock music map." Two years and countless gigs later, Molly Hatchet presented their eleventh album Silent Reign of Heroes, followed by an 18-month world tour and the dynamic Kingdom Of XII. "Silent Reign of Heroes was not really a sinister album, but it did deal with the dark side of the band. Kingdom Of XII was pure fun. It's an album for beer drinkers, for people who enjoy hoisting the rebel flag again," Ingram compares the two studio recordings. A few weeks after the release, Molly Hatchet were back on stage in Germany to complete the recordings for their live release, Locked And Loaded in 2003. Their 2005 album, Warriors Of The Rainbow Bridge, was released in memory of Bobby Ingram's late wife Stephanie, and today, five years later, Justice presents Molly Hatchet as a band which fills the spirit of the Southern community with life. Now Greatest Hits II marks the 35th anniversary of this legendary rock band the south has risen again! Tracklisting: CD 1 - 01. Son Of The South 04:44 02. Heart Of The USA 04:00 03. Fall Of The Peacemakers 06:55 04. Safe In My Skin 04:33 05. Rainbow Bridge 06:18 06. Mississipi Moon Dog 03:47 07. Devil`s Canyon 06:18 08. American Pride 04:02 09. Tatanka 05:01 10. Down From The Mountain 04:38 11. Edge Of Sundown 07:10 12. Dreams I´ll Never See 07:25 13. The Journey 07:20. CD 2 - 01. Bounty Hunter (live) 03:31 02. Gator County (live) 07:08 03. Whiskey Man (live) 03:45 04. Beatin` The Odds (live) 03:35 05. The Creeper (live) 04:55 06. Flirtin` With Disaster (live) 06:22 07. Sacred Ground (07:07) - Previously unreleased. NEW ONLINE MARKET PLACE DEDICATED TO THE METAL COMMUNITY WHERE YOU CAN SELL, BUY AND AUCTION ANYTHING TO DO WITH METAL MUSIC: Are there a few one-of-a-kind pieces of heavy metal pieces that are missing from your collection, and you just can't get a decent night's sleep until you can get your hands on them? Is there an album you want to lay your hands on? Do you have a poster to sell? Anything, as long as its heavy metal! Your wishes will now be granted metalheads, as HeavyMetalBay.com is open for business, and will satisfy all of your headbanging needs. This website is a unique online market place for the heavy metal music loving community and features any product related in any way, shape, or form to heavy metal - new, used, historic, collectable, HeavyMetalBay.com is your "go-to" site! Music, videos, memorabilia, clothing, jewellery, posters, instruments, amps - all are featured. And to celebrate the site's launch, all auction listings for the next month are free! Unlike other similarly-styled websites, you will not need a PayPal account to buy items on HeavyMetalBay.com. In addition to locating fantastic finds, the site will feature a concert guide to find local gigs from new and established bands. Also, you will be able to promote your own band or your own show, large or small ­ fees are within the budget of ordinary mortals. Heavy Metal Bay.com was founded by Denise Dale (a.k.a Denise Love) who is no stranger to metal music, she is known in the music industry as an international booking agent specializing in the heavy metal music genre. Her company, Metal Music Bookings (metalmusicbookings.com), has booked such artists as Tarja, Michael Schenker, Cinderella, Blind Guardian, and Yngwie Malmsteen to name just a few. Denise saw a need for a specialist website which brings together the metal music community. Heavy Metal Bay.com is no doubt the only trading auction site on the net that is dedicated to metal music fans, promoters, and bands worldwide. The time is upon us metalheads, to start rummaging through your closet, basement, or garage for any metallic artifacts you'd like to turn into cash, and start putting together your wish lists. HeavyMetalBay.com is open for business! For more information, visit: HeavyMetalBay.com.

 

 

Wednesday, March 09, 2011

ECLIPSE SET FOR RELEASE MAY 24 IN THE U.S. AND CANADA: Journey, one of the most popular American rock bands of all time, is gearing up to unleash their latest album of brand new material, Eclipse. The album will be released in the U.S. and Canada on May 24 exclusively at Walmart and beginning June 3 in Europe on Frontiers Records.   Thanks to Frontiers Records and Journey management, MelodicRock.com can present this world exclusive first taste of the new studio album! The 30 second preview clip of the lead track City Of Hope can be Downloaded Here.   To follow the release of Eclipse, Journey will launch the "Eclipse Tour" with Foreigner, and special guest Night Ranger, beginning July 21 at Rio Tinto Stadium in Salt Lake City, UT. Fans can expect to hear new songs from Eclipse as well as classics such as Don't Stop Believin', Any Way You Want It, Faithfully, Lights, Separate Ways, Wheel In The Sky, and many more. The "Eclipse Tour" dates are listed below. "I'm in love with this record, which I haven't said about one of our albums for a long time," says founding member and lead guitarist, Neal Schon. "It's a rock record and it sounds amazing." Commenting on the upcoming tour, Schon continued, "We've got a lot of hits to play and there's plenty of time to do some new stuff too, so we're gonna mix it up. We haven't toured with Foreigner for over 10 years, so we're really looking forward to this run." Tickets for "The Eclipse Tour" go on sale beginning Friday March 11, at all the usual online, phone and physical retail outlets, including select Walmart Ticketmaster locations across the country. Check www.journeymusic.com for complete ticket onsale information. Journey has once again teamed up with iloveallaccess.com to offer their fans a variety of VIP ticket packages. For more details go to www.journeymusic.com. In an interview with the Las Vegas Review-Journal, keyboardist Jonathan Cain recently described Eclipse as "a concept record with some spiritual themes to it…pretty tough, hard-hitting stuff." Jonathan continued, "We just felt like it was time to send a message to the world about how we feel about life in general." Journey toured the world for two years in support of their 2008 release, Revelation. More than a million fans attended the shows, and welcomed new lead singer Arnel Pineda. Completing the Journey lineup is Schon (guitars, backing vocals), Cain (keyboards, backing vocals), Ross Valory (bass, backing vocals) and Deen Castronovo (drums, percussion, backing vocals). Revelation marked the band's biggest first week's sales in more than a decade, debuting at #5 on the Billboard 200 in June 2008 and taking the top spot on the Independent Albums chart. Revelation earned the band their 11th Platinum album certification to date, leading The New York Times to declare that "the band…feels alive." Since its formation in 1973, Journey has earned 19 Top 40 singles and 25 gold and platinum albums. The band's Greatest Hits album is certified 15 times platinum, bringing Journey into the elite club of Diamond-certified album holders. The group also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005. For more information, visit www.journeymusic.com.   Initial Eclipse Tour dates: Thursday, July 21, 2011 Salt Lake City, UT Rio Tinto Stadium Saturday, July 23, 2011 Irvine, CA Verizon Wireless Amphitheater Sunday, July 24, 2011 Phoenix, AZ Desert Sky Pavilion Wednesday, July 27, 2011 Maryland Heights, MO Verizon Wireless Amphitheater Saturday, July 30, 2011 Tinley Park, IL First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre Sunday, July 31, 2011 Clarkston, MI DTE Energy Music Theatre Tuesday, August 02, 2011 Cuyahoga Falls, OH Blossom Music Center Wednesday, August 03, 2011 Cincinnati, OH Riverbend Music Center Friday, August 05, 2011 Columbus, OH Crew Stadium, Ohio State Fair Saturday, August 06, 2011 Noblesville, IN Verizon Wireless Music Center Wednesday, August 10, 2011 Darien Center, NY Darien Lake Performing Arts Center Saturday, August 13, 2011 Camden, NJ Susquehanna Bank Center Tuesday, August 16, 2011 Hartford, CT Comcast Theatre Wednesday, August 17, 2011 Wantagh, NY Nikon at Jones Beach Theater Friday, August 19, 2011 Virginia Beach, VA Virginia Beach Amphitheater Saturday, August 20, 2011 Raleigh, NC Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion at Walnut Creek Sunday, August 21, 2011 Charlotte, NC Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre Charlotte Wednesday, August 24, 2011 Holmdel, NJ PNC Bank Arts Center Saturday, August 27, 2011 Burgettstown, PA First Niagara Pavilion Tuesday, August 30, 2011 Syracuse, NY New York State Fair Wednesday, August 31, 2011 Allentown, PA The Great Allentown Fair Friday, September 02, 2011 Saratoga Springs, NY Saratoga Performing Arts Center* Saturday, September 10, 2011 New Orleans, LA New Orleans Arena Friday, September 16, 2011 Atlanta, GA Aaron's Amphitheatre at Lakewood Saturday, September 17, 2011 Tampa, FL 1-800 Ask-Gary Amphitheatre Sunday, September 18, 2011 West Palm Beach, FL Cruzan Amphitheatre Saturday, September 24, 2011 Dallas, TX Gexa Energy Pavilion Sunday, September 25, 2011 The Woodlands, TX Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Wednesday, September 28, 2011 Kansas City, MO Starlight Theatre Saturday, October 01, 2011 Englewood, CO Comfort Dental Amphitheatre Friday, October 07, 2011 Chula Vista, CA Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre Friday, October 14, 2011 Wheatland, CA Sleep Train Amphitheatre Saturday, October 15, 2011 Mountain View, CA Shoreline Amphitheatre Wednesday, October 19, 2011 Portland, OR Rose Garden Arena Friday, October 21, 2011 Seattle, WA KeyArena WHITESNAKE'S FORTHCOMING ALBUM DUE IN MULTIPLE CONFIGURATIONS MARCH 25: Whitesnake's brand new album Forevermore, due out via Frontiers Records on March 25 in Europe and March 29 in North America, is set for release in four different configurations. Forevermore will be available as: - a single CD - a CD+DVD combo: the DVD features the "Love Will Set You Free" video, the making of "Love Will Set You Free" video, as well as a behind-the-scenes documentary on the recording of Forevermore; the CD includes three bonus tracks: "Love Will Set You Free" (alt mix), "My Evil Ways" (alt mix with drum solo) and "Forevermore" (acoustic version) - a 2LP gatefold sleeve - a special edition box set which includes the CD, DVD, 2LP, as well as a cover litho, a poster and a logo sticker. The digital album is available for pre-order now via Whitesnake.com and includes an instant track download of "Love Will Set You Free." Pre-order of the album is also available at all digital stores now, with Amazon digital stores offering "My Evil Ways" (alt Mix with Drum Solo) as a bonus track; while the iTunes LP edition features the "Love Will Set You Free" (alt mix) and "Forevermore" (acoustic version) as bonus tracks. Forevermore will be will be specially released on a "Snake Pack" edition in the United Kingdom only. This very special release – arranged in conjunction with Future Publishing and Classic Rock magazine - will come with a collectors edition 132 pages deluxe magazine + A1 poster & metal pin badge and shall feature an exclusive cover art and 2 bonus live tracks "Slide It In" and "Cheap An' Nasty" which will serve as an appetizer for the forthcoming "Live @ Donington 1990" to be released in the summer 2011. The first single from Forevermore, "Love Will Set You Free," has been heating up at radio with serious spins at stations such as Planet Rock, Star FM, ARFM and Total Rock in the UK, Rock 'n Roll Radio (Italy), Radio Die Neue 107,7 (Germany), Radio 88,6 Vienna (Austria), Radio DRS3 (Switzerland), RNE/Radio 3 (Spain) and more. David Coverdale will be on the cover of April editions of several magazines in Europe and Japan and This Is Rock (Spain) has already hit the newsstands. The corresponding video, which can be seen here on Vevo, has received upwards of 230,000 views in its first two weeks. Directed by Devin DeHaven/Fortress Entertainment (Papa Roach, Method Man, Extreme), the video was shot in Lake Tahoe, NV. "Love Will Set You Free" is now available for purchase at all digital service providers – click here to purchase the single on and click here to purchase the video on iTunes. In other Whitesnake news, more US and European tour dates have been announced including headlining the M3 Festival at the Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, MD on Saturday, May 14, an appearance at the Rocklahoma Festival in Pryor, OK on Friday, May 27, and an appearance at the Kazlicesme Festival in Istanbul, Turkey on July 11, together with Bon Jovi and Judas Priest. Please see below for the itinerary with more tour dates to be announced shortly. Forevermore finds founder/singer/songwriter David Coverdale and company returning to their no-holds-barred, bluesiest, sexiest rock n' roll roots.  This will be Whitesnake's 11th album and the first release via Frontiers Records. Forevermore was recorded, produced and mixed by Los Bros Brutalos (Coverdale, Doug Aldrich and Michael McIntyre). Whitesnake is David Coverdale (vocals), Doug Aldrich (guitars), Reb Beach (guitars), Michael Devin (bass) and Briian Tichy (drums). Formed in 1977, and steered by the legendary David Coverdale, Whitesnake carry a rightful reputation as one of the world's leading rock n' roll bands. Coverdale's blues roots, combined with a feral sense of rockin' and rollin', have consistently shaped the 'Snake's sound along with Coverdale's love and appreciation of impeccable musicianship.  Whitesnake's ascent to the very top of the rock n' roll heap was confirmed with 1987's self-titled mega-platinum album, which saw two massive Top 10 hits, two #1 singles with "Here I Go Again" and "Is This Love" and a virtual 24-hour domination of MTV around the world.   Whitesnake on tour: 12 May 2011 Hartfort, CT, USA @ Webster Theatre 14 May 2011 Columbia, MD, USA @ M3 Festival - Merriweather 20 May 2011 Biloxi, MS, USA @ Hard Rock Biloxi 22 May 2011 Richardson, TX, USA @ Wildflower Arts and Music 27 May 2011 Pryor, OK, USA @ Rocklahoma 02 June 2011 Moscow, Russia @ Megasport Arena 04 June 2011 St. Petersburg, Russia @ Icearena 06 June 2011 Helsinki, Finland @ Icehall 08 June 2011 Oslo, Norway @ Sentrum Scene 10 June 2011 Solvesborg, Sweden @ Rock Festival 13 June 2011 Newcastle, UK @ City Hall 14 June 2011 Glasgow, UK @ O2 Academy 16 June 2011 Wolverhampton, UK @ Civic 17 June 2011 Manchester, UK @ Apollo 19 June 2011 Bournemouth, UK @ BIC 20 June 2011 London, UK @ Hammersmith Apollo 22 June 2011 Milano, Italy @ Gods of Metal 23 June 2011 Basel - St. Jakob, Switzerland @ Sonisphere Festival 25 June 2011 Dessel, Belgium @ Graspop 27 June 2011 Munich, Germany @ Zenith 28 June 2011 Prague, Czech Rep. @ Saska Arena 29 June 2011 Vienna, Austria @ Stadthalle 01 July 2011 Belgrade, Serbia @ Arena 03 July 2011 Bucharest, Romania @ Romexpo 05 July 2011 Athens, Greece @ Water Park Faliro 06 July 2011 Thessaloniki, Greece @ Kautatzogleio Stadium 08 July 2011 Sofia, Bulgaria @ Akademik Stadium 10 July 2011 Istanbul, Turkey @ Kazlicesme Festival Site 13 July 2011 Budapest, Hungaru # Millenaris Theater 15 July 2011 Singen, Germany @ Hohentwiel Festival 16 July 2011 Kerkrade, Netherlands @ Rodahal For more information please visit: www.whitesnake.com / www.frontiers.it.   NIGHT RANGER USER IN ANOTHER NEW KEYBOARD PLAYER: Night Ranger have announced that keyboard player of 4 years Christian Cullen has left the band to be replaced by Eric Levy. Those looking to find out a little more about Eric can view his website at: ericlevy.net/ericlevydotnet/Home.html. His bio in part reads; "Told by his professors that 'you have nothing left to learn here,' he began his life as a working musician in the Chicago scene, performing with many local artists. Eric then departed for the high seas, and began a two year stint as the keyboard player on one of Premier Cruise Lines signature vessels. Returning to Chicago, Eric played with various groups including Galaxy (with Filter drummer Steve Gillis), the Fareed Haque Group, and the Blue Turtle Tea Party (which has recently received significant radio play on college radio stations), and other bands with styles ranging from straight-ahead jazz to Chicago blues, to funk 'n' groove. Entering the jam world with Garaj Mahal has opened up his playing tremendously, and he seems at times to be using far more than two hands with his notoriously eclectic melodic solos screaming, blisteringly fast, and deep in the groove. Eric Levy's Love Lounge album, entitled "QED", will be released soon." MR. BIG LIVING ROOM TRACK LIST: The likely track list for the Mr. Big's Live From The Living Room acoustic live release will be: 01. Undertow 02. Still Ain't Enough for Me 03. Green-Tinted Sixties Mind 04. As Far As I Can See 05. Voodoo Kiss 06. Where Do I Fit In? 07. Take Cover 08. Around The World 09. Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy 10. Stranger In My Life (w/ Strings) 11. All The Way Up (w/ Strings) 12. To Be With You (w/ Strings) 13. Nobody Left To Blame (w/ Taiko Drums) 14. Shy Boy (w/ Taiko Drums) - Encore - 15. 30 Days In The Hole. R.I.P. AIC BASSIST MIKE STARR: Alice In Chains bassist Mike Starr has died of an overdose in the USA. Report: "Mike Starr, who made his name as the bassist and one of the founding members of rock group Alice in Chains, died on Tuesday in Utah, according to TMZ. Starr, who appeared on the third season of Celebrity Rehab, in 2009, was found in his home Tuesday afternoon. Police were reportedly called to the residence shortly before 2 p.m. Starr was arrested for possession of a controlled substance in February." NewsLink: www.tmz.com/2011/03/08/mike-starr-alice-in-chains-bassist-celebrity-rehab-dead-salt-lake-city-utah-felony-possession-painkiller. R.I.P. Mike. MELODIC BRIEFS: On this weeks Hair Metal Haven you have a chance to win 2 tickets for this years Firefest festival worth over £200. Just answer a simple question and send your details over to Chris Nelson. Chris will be also be talking to Grand Illusion. The interview came from his meeting with Peter Sundell and Anders Rydholm at last years Firefest festival. Then on the Power Hour there's another legendary hilarious 18 & Life interview with ex-Iron Maiden vocalist Blaze Bayley, answering 18 personal questions about himself. With brand new tracks from Whitesnake, The Poodles, King Kobra, Eden's Curse, Steele, Far Cry, Talon, Powerquest, Million and many many more, join Chris this Saturday - 12th March 17.00-19.00GMT only on www.phoenixradio.co.uk. Steven Tyler: Aerosmith Will Record This Summer: bit.ly/g9TQ7O. Respected music and entertainment journalist Bryan Reesman has written an expose profiling the unorthodox new tribute album, Whole Lotta Love: An All-Star Salute To Fat Chicks. Appearing in East Coast music newspaper "The Aquarian," the article spotlights the new project featuring members of such bands as Quiet Riot, Twisted Sister, Cinderella, Danger Danger and L.A. Guns performing well-known songs praising the fuller female form. Interviewed in the article is the album's executive producer A.J. Confessore, who also produced the similarly unlikely "Kiss My Ankh: A Tribute To Vinnie Vincent." Included are additional comments from L.A. Guns singer Phil Lewis and blues diva Candye Kane. The complete article is available here: www.TheAquarian.com/2011/02/23/whole-lotta-love-compilation-divas-deluxe. www.rockpages.gr posted an interview with Uriah Heep about the new album Into The Wild, and the upcoming two Greek shows between others. rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=5289&type=1&lang=en. Soul Doctor guitarist Chris Lyne and the Gary Moore Rock Revival Band from Berlin, Germany will perform a tribute concert to Gary Moore at the Halford Club in Berlin, Germany on April 8. The show also will feature performances by some friends including guitarist Andy Malecek (Last Autumn's Dream), singer Mischa Mang (Ivanhoe) and singer Sinisa Licanin (ex Soul Doctor). Songs will include "Still Got The Blues", "Over The Hills And Far Away", Victims Of The Future", "Empty Rooms", "Don't Believe A Word" and cover Moore's entire career. More details: www.chrislyne.com. A new one-off Jimi Jamison solo single The Restless Kind finds itself at #8 in Berlin, Germany - www.radioberlin.de/musik/hey_music/index.html. Steelheart to Sweden Rock Festival! Details and full line-up here: www.swedenrock.com/index.cfm?pg=17&pr=526. 3/8/2010 – Philadelphia, PA - The rock world is buzzing with the debut release of legendary Colosseum, Natural Gas, Rainbow, Uriah Heep member Mark Clarke called Moving To The Moon on Philadelphia record label ItsAboutMusic.com. Encompassing all the styles of music he has worked with the past 40 years, Mark Clarke's new solo album is a must for collectors and music enthusiasts worldwide. It's a masterful collection of extremely well recorded and performed tracks that rival any from the bands he's played in. Helix fans; "Check out our new video for "When the Bitter's Got the Better of You" from the Vagabond Bones CD. Brent put this together over the past month. We're shooting for 20,000 hits on YouTube. Help us reach our goal! Please pass the link along to all your friends if you are a Helix fan. www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2azLPgkGnw." A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM PHIL COLLINS: A personal message from Phil Collins, posted online overnight: "Greetings to all, I've decided to write this in response to the articles that surfaced last weekend regarding my retirement. Why they were printed at all is a mystery, as I haven't spoken to anybody in the press for a few months. However, many of the articles printed over the last few months have ended up painting a picture of me that is more than a little distorted. Therefore, I would like to add my comments and try to explain again my reasons for calling it a day. 1/ I'm not stopping because of dodgy reviews or bad treatment in the press. 2/ I'm not stopping because I don't feel loved, I know I still have a very large fanbase that loves what I do. Thank you. 3/ I'm not stopping because I don't fit in, this was proved with "Going Back" reaching No 1 in the UK, and doing incredibly well worldwide. 4/ I'm not stopping so I can dive full time into my interest for the Alamo. I am stopping so I can be a full time father to my two young sons on a daily basis. Some of the things mentioned above have been said by me in various interviews, but said as asides with a smile on my face and in passing. They were not meant to be "headlines", they were small parts of a conversation. This clearly doesn't come over in print and I should know better. However, the result is that I have ended up sounding like a tormented weirdo who thinks he was at the Alamo in another life, who feels very sorry for himself, and is retiring hurt because of the bad press over the years. None of this is true. Thanks for all your messages on the Forum regarding this stuff, it means a lot that you care. But there's no need for the straitjacket!" NEWMAN UPDATE: Following the great success of their appearance last year at Firefest Steve Newman has commenced writing and demoing songs for the next Newman studio album. This will be the follow up to the much acclaimed The Art Of Balance which is still receiving rave reviews around the globe. The new album, as yet untitled, is hoped to be ready for a summer release. On the subject of releases, the Big Life album featuring Steve Newman and Mark Thompson-Smith is released on April 29 via AOR Heaven and the Newman Firefest live CD/DVD will appear later this year. Thanks once again for all your support! BLACK STONE CHERRY SIT BETWEEN THE DEVIL AND THE DEP BLUE SEA: New York, NY: Roadrunner Records is pleased to announce the third Black Stone Cherry Album, Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea, is due out May 31. Kentucky's Black Stone Cherry, comprised of vocalist Chris Robertson, guitarist Ben Wells, bassist Jon Lawhon and Drummer John Fred Young, is a band adept at creating both timeless rock 'n roll and new, innovative sounds. While the band's last record, Folklore and Superstition, was a compelling tribute to brotherhood and history, the new album is the summation of a year in the life of the band­every emotion, triumph, loss, romance and everything in between­it's all here on Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea. This is the first time Black Stone Cherry has not recorded in the South, this time taking up residence in Los Angeles to work with famed producer Howard Benson (Theory of a Deadman, Daughtry, Three Days Grace). The new surroundings allowed them to strengthen their relationships as both band members and friends, ultimately a detail that sets Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea above previous recordings. The raw intensity that pervades the music on this album harkens back to the early days of Black Stone Cherry, when they were a bunch of blue-collar guys just making music together for the hell of it. The band admits "When we first began writing music, we hadn't traveled very far out of our home state of Kentucky. Now, ten years later, we've traveled the world and experienced things we never imagined we would." First single "White Trash Millionaire," set to hit airwaves in April, pairs Robertson's soulful delivery with the urgent and infectious rhythms of his fellow players. Sure, this is Southern rock at heart; but the concept is universal: just take what the world gives you and make that work. "This album is the culmination of all of the everyday ups and downs life throws at you," says the band. "Sonically, you'll hear some of the meanest sounding guitar riffs we've ever laid down, and at the same time, you'll find ballads that will tug on your heartstrings. We wanted the album's intensity to match that of our live show. We're very proud of this album and excited for our fans to hear it!" To celebrate the release of Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea, Black Stone Cherry is participating in an ongoing partnership with Evan Williams Kentucky Bourbon. The promotion brings 450,000 Black Stone Cherry branded bottles to shelves nationwide through June, including special mp3 offers and a chance to win a trip to meet the band at one of their shows. Black Stone Cherry is set to have quite the busy spring, with tours with Hinder and Alter Bridge on the horizon: 4/8 @ Lucky Star Casino- Clinton, OK (with Hinder) 4/9 @ St. Mary's University – San Antonio, TX (Fiesta Oyster Bake w. Hinder, Saving Abel) 4/12 @ Ogden Theatre – Denver, CO (with Hinder) 4/13 @ The Great Salt Air – Salt Lake City, UT (with Hinder) 4/15 @ Showbox SoDo – Seattle, WA (with Hinder) 4/17 @ Knitting Factory Concert House – Spokane, WA (with Hinder) 4/19 @ Knitting Factory Concert House – Boise, ID (with Hinder) 4/21 @ Roseland Theater – Portland, OR (with Alter Bridge) 4/22 @ Knitting Factory – Reno, NV (with Hinder) 4/23 @ House of Blues – Las Vegas, NV (with Alter Bridge) 4/24 @ The Regency Ballroom – San Francisco, CA (with Alter Bridge) 4/26 @ SLO Brewing Company – San Luis Obispo, CA 4/27 @ The Grove – Anaheim, CA (with Alter Bridge) 4/29 @ The Great Salt Air – Magna, UT (with Alter Bridge) 4/30 @ Ogden Theatre – Denver, CO (with Alter Bridge) 5/2 @ House of Blues – Chicago, IL (with Alter Bridge) 5/3 @ House of Blues – Chicago, IL (with Alter Bridge) 5/7 @ Metrolina Expo – Charlotte, NC (Avalanche 2011 w. Avenged Sevenfold, Godsmack, Theory of a Deadman) 5/8 @ NorVa – Norfolk, VA (with Alter Bridge) 5/10 @ Valarium – Knoxville, TN (with Alter Bridge) 5/11 @ Cannery Ballroom – Nashville, TN (with Alter Bridge) 5/12 @ Piere's Entertainment Center – Ft. Wayne, IN (with Alter Bridge) 5/15 @ The Machine Shop – Flint, MI 5/17 @ The Palladium – Worcester, MA (with Alter Bridge) 5/18 @ Northern Lights – Albany, NY (with Alter Bridge) 5/19 @ Best Buy Theatre – New York, NY (with Alter Bridge)

 

 

Tuesday, March 08, 2011

BRIAN MAY WILL BE GIVEN EDDY CHRISTIANI AWARD 2011: On 23 April 2011, Brian May, one of the greatest rock stars of the last 40 years, will come to the Arsenaaltheater in Vlissingen in the Dutch province of Zeeland in order to personally receive the Eddy Christiani Award. The guitar sound of Brian May, guitarist and songwriter of the legendary band Queen, is completely unique. Clean, light, distorted or oversteered; his virtuoso performance is always unmatched, warm and of an enormous harmonious richness. The jury report of chairman of the jury and Music journalist Jean-Paul Heck says: "Brian May is one of the most influential guitarists of the last 40 years. May has influenced thousands guitar players all over the world and many current superstars started out playing guitar because of him. May's guitar play has an amazing recognisability. Within Five seconds, you can hear that it is him. The tone, the timing, it is all equally unique. Aside from that he is also an unbelievably talented songwriter. Together with Jimmy Page and Eddie van Halen May belongs to the most influential guitarists of his generation.' Brian May and Queen have captured the limelight for 40 years and continue to do so. Their 40th anniversary in 2011 is cause for an enormous celebration. This spring their first five albums will be re-released with a new look. The other albums will follow later in 2011. Besides that there will be an exhibition in London called 'Stormtroopers in Stillettos' as well as a Hollywood film about the life of Freddie Mercury and the musical 'We will rock you' continues to enthral people around the world. The Eddy Christiani Award is an initiative of poppuntzeeland and is awarded to a guitarist who has earned his merit in the international pop circuit and who has, just like Eddy Christiani given a valuable contribution to the development of the electric guitar. Leendert Haaksma (2006), Dany Lademacher (2007), Adrian Vandenberg (2008) Jan Akkerman (2009) en Steve Lukather (2010) have all received the award. Several famous artists are involved with this event. Dutch pop star Roel Van Velzen & band will play a main role during the evening. Ticket sales starting from Tuesday 8 March at the cash register of Stadschouwburg, Molenwater 99 in Middelburg and Theater de Mythe in Goes (Monday till Friday 11.00am – 4pm). More ticket info: theaterverkoopzeeland.nl (in Dutch). MR. BIG GET IT ON LIVE IN THE LIVING ROOM: Not content with a smashingly brilliant new studio album, Mr. Big will celebrate further with a new live release Live From The Living Room [Limited Release], due out April 27 in Japan. I am awaiting word if there could be a European release. The release features the studio concert held on Jan. 28, 2011 at Toho Studio in Kinuta, Setagaya, Japan. IT will be released as a Digipack Limited Edition. Pre-Order here: www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/ZRcokempdVE/514/A867157/detailview.html?KEY=IECP-10238. THIN LIZZY SET TO ROCK THE USA WITH TOUR DATES AND ROCKLINE APPEARANCE: Due to a multitude of classic tunes ("The Boys Are Back in Town," "Jailbreak," "Waiting for an Alibi," etc.) and albums ('Jailbreak,' 'Live and Dangerous,' 'Black Rose,' etc.), Thin Lizzy is undoubtedly one of rock's all-time great bands. And with arguably the band's strongest line-up since the days that the late/great Phil Lynott served as their front man, Thin Lizzy are set to take the USA by storm with upcoming tour dates in late March and early April. The trek will include stops in Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, Toronto, Detroit, and Chicago, and will also include a live appearance on the popular radio show, Rockline, on March 23rd, which will run from 11:30 pm to 1:00 am EST. Thin Lizzy's current line-up includes such 'Lynott era' Lizzy veterans as Scott Gorham (guitar), Brian Downey (drums), and Darren Wharton (keyboards), as well as singer/guitarist Ricky Warwick, bassist Marco Mendoza, and Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell. Thin Lizzy became one of rock's top bands during the 1970's, on the strength of Lynott's poetic yet tough lyrics, and the highly influential dual guitar attack of Gorham and which ever second guitarist he was paired up with at the time (Brian Robertson, the late Gary Moore, Snowy White, or John Sykes). Lizzy split up in 1983, before Lynott passed away in 1986. But with Lizzy being either consistently name checked as an influence or having their songs covered by other bands, the group's stature has remained at the forefront of rock over the years. And now, US fans will be able to experience the Lizzy legend once more on the concert stage. Confirmed Tour Dates: 03/24/2011 Jim Thorpe, PA. Penn's Peak 03/25/2011 New York, NY. Best Buy Theatre 03/26/2011 Uncasville, CT. Mohegan Sun Casino Wolf's Den 03/27/2011 Sayreville, NJ. Starland Ballroom 03/29/2011 Glenside, PA. Keswick Theatre 03/30/2011 Toronto, ON. Canada Sound Academy 03/31/2011 Detroit, MI. Sound Board at Motor City Casino Hotel 04/01/2011 Chicago, IL. Vic Theatre For more information, visit: thinlizzyband.com / rocklineradio.com. MELODIC BRIEFS: In case you haven't yet seen the pictures and captions - Sammy Hagar (quoted from the book from Red), on Van Halen: www.rollingstone.com/music/photos/exclusive-excerpt-surviving-eddie-20110304/0343199. Steven Tyler tweeted this earlier today: "Aerofreaksrejoice ...Joe & i sent smoke signals... shot the shit & chewed the fat for the last year... but just smoked the peace pipe..." Manticora - Denmark's leading thrash/power metal band has been confirmed to play at the Terchovsky Budzogan Rockfest in Zilina, Slovakia on 12/8 - 2011. www.manticora.dk / www.budzogan.sk. A headliner for the festival is soon to be revealed. Coke the Record Label?: www.digitalmusicnews.com/stories/020411coke. Vivian Campbell interview: www.RockMusicStar.com/viviancampbell. The all new Power Quest website which went live today - www.power-quest.co.uk. Papa Roach, the band that has been dubbed "this generation's great live rock band" by fans and critics across the globe, have announced their headlining "Raid the Nation" tour. Known for their electrifying and explosive live shows, Papa Roach have become the common denominator for some of the most successful rock tours in recent years and will be continuing that trend with a west coast run beginning on April 25th in Anaheim, CA. Tickets go on sale this weekend and will be available at www.paparoach.com. Queensryche have been added to Sweden Rock Festival: www.swedenrock.com. PROG ROCK KEYBOARDIST LISA LARUE TO RELEASE 2KX'S "FAST AND BLUE" MARCH 31: Muskogee, OK - Prog rock musician/keyboardist Lisa LaRue will release her sophomore CD Fast and Blue on March 31, 2011. The title will be released in a jewel pack along with both a DVD and magazine each sold separately. There will also be a very special limited edition (50 copies) of the entire package sold for $25.95 at www.rocktunz.com for 30 days only. After that timeframe, the album, DVD and magazine will be available and sold separately at www.lisalaruemusic.com. To preview the album, a listening party is scheduled for April 2nd on The Dividing Line internet radio show "The Rogue's Gallery" hosted by Frans Keylard. www.thedividingline.cm/rg The core 2KX band consists of: Lisa LaRue - keyboards; Steve Adams (ARZ) - guitars/bass; Merrilll Hale (ARZ) - drums; John Payne (Asia Featuring John Payne) - vocals, bass. Special guests on the CD include: Michael Sadler (Saga) - vocals, Ryo Okumoto (Spock's Beard, GPS) - keyboards, Don Schiff (Rocket Scientists, Lana Lane, Erik Norlander, Tappestry) - NS/stick, Mitch Perry (Asia Featuring John Payne, Cher, Aerosmith, Michael Schenker, Edgar Winter) - guitar, Maxi Nil (Visions of Atlantis) - vocals, Michael Alvarez (Bass Clef Experiment) - cello. The "Fast and Blue" CD will contain 7 tracks: 1. Mystery of the Rose 1:14 2. Prometheus 18:53 3. Tryptych 4:55 4. Jam Jehan Nima 13:30 5. Lament of the Cherokee/Ruins of Home 7:40 6. Fast and Blue 5:12 7. Recurring Dream 7:26 "Fast and Blue" is co-produced by Lisa LaRue and Steve Adams with John Payne. The "Fast and Blue" DVD will contain: • The making of "Fast and Blue" with special appearances by Ryo,, Michael, Don, John, Steve, and Lisa • Fast and Blue - the single video • Recurring Dream video (this video will not be available on YouTube) • Prometheus video (this video will not be available on YouTube and will contain portions of Thomas Edison's "Frankenstein 1910", the first film made of Mary Shelley's book "Frankenstein: The Modern Day Prometheus") The "Fast and Blue" magazine features include: • 8.5" x 11" dimensions • 24 pages • An intro to the album • 1 page with beautiful artwork devoted to each song • A narrative about each song's place in the overall theme of thee album • A crayon drawing by actor Brad Pitt done in the first grade at Horace Mann Elementary School where he and Lisa LaRue were classmates • A full page bio with photos of each band member • Full-page official publicity photos • A scrapbook collage of band members and special guests taken during the making of "Fast and Blue" • Two pages specially devoted to the CD and DVD storage. "Fast and Blue is about how life can change so quickly, but yet this life we live may be but one of many we live throughout one long soul life," says LaRue. "The esoteric mysteries of the Knight's Templar, the Holy Grail and even my own indigenous culture all tie together in a big musical story. Many of us involved in the project have a deep interest in the many facets of this story, including Steve Adams' CD "Solomon's Key" and John Payne's continuing work on a Dan Brown-related theme." Based in Northeastern Oklahoma and working for her tribe (United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma), Lisa LaRue is not only fulfilling her dreams but hoping to be an inspiration to other native entrepreneurs. While staying in her home community and doing important work for her tribe, she is recording a progressive rock album with musicians from around the world! Progressive rock has recently witnessed a resurgence across the world, particularly in the UK, but as a Native American woman, Lisa has taken on a new challenge of working with musicians of different cultures and backgrounds to work in a unique way - each participant writes and records their own parts without any musical direction, but what comes from their heart. The combination of backgrounds, influences, demographics and talent is not only proof that music is the universal language, but that an indigenous woman can stay in her own tribal community and still work with the world and touch the world as well, in a way that is not stereotypical but uniting - while using modern technology to create the final product. One of the 'hold-ups' to native people being successful is the lack of opportunities in the tribal community. But with the internet and other forms of technology, it is now possible. "I've connected with fabulous musicians from other parts of the United States, Greece and the U.K., and we all share the common goal of creating great music, and have proven to ourselves that we write and play in spiritual harmony," says LaRue. By allowing each musician the opportunity to add to the songs what comes from their hearts without any musical direction, the outcome will show that music IS, indeed, the Universal Language. Special thanks to the many fans who were involved in the 2KX project and reaped rewards for their contributions. Those who pledged to the project qualified to receive a song written by LaRue for them or a loved one as well as numerous other rewards for their participation. Official Lisa LaRue 2KX Web Site: www.lisalaruemusic.com / www.facebook.com/pages/Lisa-LaRues-2KX/150370058320003?ref=ts. SHINEDOWN GUITARIST TALKS NEW ALBUM; STARTS SOLO TOUR: From Gibson.com: "Shinedown lead guitarist Zach Myers is used to playing arenas packed with 10,000-plus screaming rock fans. But for the month of March, Myers is turning down the volume and embarking on a solo, acoustic tour with fellow singer-songwriter and longtime buddy Chris Allen (Ingram Hill). The souLLow Acoustic 2011 Tour, which kicked off Thursday in Toledo, Ohio, is totally different from a Shinedown show. For one, Myers and Allen play their own originals, covers and only a few Shinedown songs. "Shinedown is something I love, and I'll be a part of it forever. But I can't sing like [Shinedown lead singer] Brent Smith," Myers said in an interview with Gannett Media. "He's the greatest singer on the earth. I can't do what he does, so I couldn't do some of our songs justice. I'll do a couple of Shinedown songs, but not really the singles. Just the Shinedown songs that are my personal favorites." As of late, Shinedown have kept busy in Los Angeles, working on their new album. Myers reports the band has about 14 songs written, but they probably won't start hunkering down until late summer. Expect a new album by 2012. "We aren't a band that goes into the studio and makes a record in six weeks," he said. "The Sound of Madness took 24 months to write. Brent has this weird thing when we're writing, we go into the studio, and there are no clocks around; there are no calendars on the wall. He doesn't like to have a time limit on being creative." Zach Myers and Chris Allen souLLow Acoustic 2011 Tour dates: March 5 - Detroit, Riverview, Michigan - Rack 'n Roll Club March 6 - Kent, Ohio - JB's March 8 - Richmond, Virginia - Alley Katz March 9 - Charlotte, North Carolina - Amos South End March 10 - Fayetteville, North Carolina - Rock Shop March 11 - Raleigh, North Carolina - The Berkley March 12 - Memphis, Tennessee - Hard Rock Cafe - Special Guest - Prosevere March 13 - Little Rock, Arkansas - Juanita's and then there was Bear March 17 - Clarksville, Tennessee - The Warehouse March 18 - Cookeville, Tennessee - Cookeville expo - Hugo from Tantric Supports March 19 - Chattanooga, Tennessee - The Camp House March 20 - Nashville, Tennessee - The Rutledge March 22 - Augusta, Georgia - The Vue March 24 - Tupelo, Mississippi - Lucky Joe's March 26 - Jackson, Mississippi - Club Fire - Special Guest - Prosevere March 27 - Natchitoches, Louisiana - Bourbon Cree WebLinks: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/shinedown-0305-2011.

 

 

Monday, March 07, 2011

LOVERBOY KEEPS "WORKING FOR THE WEEKEND" 30 YEARS LATER: Multi-platinum Canadian rockers reunite with legendary producer/engineer Bob Rock for two new singles, "Heartbreaker" and "No Tomorrow" News from: www.loverboyband.com/news_%2830years%29.html / "LOS ANGELES, March 1, 2011—For 30 years, Loverboy has been "Working for the Weekend," delighting audiences around the world since forming in Calgary, Alberta, when vocalist Mike Reno was introduced to local guitar hot shot Paul Dean, both veterans of several bands on the scene. And now they're back, having reunited with their original engineer, legendary producer Bob Rock [Metallica, Aerosmith, The Cure, Bon Jovi], who worked under Bruce Fairbairn at the time. The band recorded two new songs with Rock, "Heartbreaker" and "No Tomorrow," which could to be a prelude for a new album. "He phoned Mike and me out of the blue and told us he had a song that might work for us that he'd love to produce," says Dean. "He sent it over and we just flipped out. It's a great, kick-ass Loverboy song. It was just fantastic to be on the same page with everybody else in the band again. We had been through several false starts recording-wise over the years. Mike was really inspired this time. It was a great experience. I think these tracks are some of the best work we've ever done." Not just Canada's greatest rock export, Loverboy made its mark south of the border, with four multi-platinum albums including the four-million-selling Get Lucky, and a trio of double-platinum releases in their self-titled 1980 debut, 1983's Keep It Up and 1985's Lovin' Every Minute of It. Their string of hits includes, in addition to the anthem "Working for the Weekend," such arena rock staples as "Lovin' Every Minute of It," "This Could Be the Night," "Hot Girls in Love," "Heaven In Your Eyes," "Turn Me Loose," "When It's Over," "Heaven In Your Eyes" and "Queen of the Broken Hearts." Their pop culture credibility was cemented by a recent 30 Rock episode in which Scott Adsit's amateur musician Pete Hornberger revealed he was actually Loverboy's original bassist, showing him inserted into vintage '80s footage of the band wailing away on "Working for the Weekend," which you can see at: www.hulu.com/watch/217096/30-rock-its-never-too-late-for-now. The group still includes original members Doug Johnson on keyboards and Matt Frenette on drums, with Ken "Spider" Sinnaeve (a former member of Dean and Frenette's pre-Loverboy band Streetheart), who replaced the late Scott Smith on bass, and continues a healthy touring schedule around the world. "I look at our concerts as a 100-minute experience," says Dean, who still claims to be able to fit into the same pair of red leather pants he wore on the "Queen of the Broken Hearts" video in 1983. "I'm a normal guy up until 10 minutes before we hit the stage. Then the heart rate goes up and I consciously step into the bubble. And I don't come out of it until 30 seconds after that last cymbal smash and I walk off-stage. It's a great stress release, better than riding a Harley." Perhaps the band's most famous song is "Working for the Weekend," which has fueled a generation's dreams of toiling every day for the chance to celebrate come Friday night. Dean realizes it has taken on a whole new meaning these days. "You're lucky if you can work for the weekend now," he says. "We're all fortunate to be doing that." With four decades under his belt, Dean sees no end in sight for Loverboy… or himself. "My dream has always been to play guitar and entertain people," he enthuses. "There's no feeling like looking out in the audience and seeing them grinning ear to ear, everyone on the same wavelength. And once we start with the megahits, the place goes crazy. That's why we do what we do and will continue." Still "Working for the Weekend" 30 years later, Loverboy's catalog includes some of arena-rock's most enduring anthems, and they are about to add to that legacy." For a list of upcoming tour dates, please visit: loverboyband.com/home.html. NEW LEVERTY TUNE AND FIREHOUSE TOUR DATES: Firehouse guitarist Bill Leverty reports: "I just recorded a cover of The Ohio Players classic song, Fire. Please add it to your collection by downloading it at one of the links below: itunes.apple.com/us/album/fire-single/id423749126 / www.amazon.com/Fire/dp/B004QED68Y/ref=sr_shvl_album_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1299155129&sr=301-1 / www.cdbaby.com/AlbumDetails.aspx?AlbumID=billleverty. I've always loved this song and I've wanted to cover it for over 20 years. Finally! Here are the latest confirmed dates for FireHouse: 03/19/2011 Grapevine, TX *Glass Cactus* 1501 Gaylord Trail / Tel: 817-778-2800 / www.glasscactusnightclub.com / with Slaughter 04/09/2011 Battle Creek, MI *Planet Live Music Factory* 191 Angell Street / Tel: 269-962-2121 / www.planetlivemusic.com 04/23/2011 Charlotte, NC *Amos Southend* 1423 South Tryon Street / 704-377-6874 / www.amossouthend.com 05/14/2011 Columbia, MD *Merriweather Post Pavillion* M3 Festival / http://www.merriweathermusic.com 06/04/2011 Norfolk, NE *Midwest Bikefest* 2900 Old Hwy. 8 / with Skid Row 07/07/2011 Sawyer, ND *Rockn On The Ridge - Rock Dakota Ranch* 13101 153rd Street, SE / Tel: 517-694-2525 / with REO Speedwagon / www.rocknontheridge.com 08/09/2011 Uncasville, CT *The Wolf Den at Mohegan Sun* Hope to see you on tour this spring/summer.: REDEMPTION TO HEADLINE PROGPOWER EUROPE: Redemption, the US progressive metal band featuring in its ranks legendary Fates Warning vocalist Ray Alder, has announced they will be headlining this year's ProgPower Europe and embarking upon a European mini-tour. The twelfth installment of the world renown ProgPower Europe festival will take place in Baarlo, Holland, on October 1-2. The mini-tour will see Redemption play a selected number of concerts across Europe, giving European fans a chance to finally see the band live (their only European show so far was 5 years ago at the Headway festival in Amsterdam, Holland). The mini-tour is shaping up as follows: Oct. 1st: London, UK - venue tba 2nd: Progpower Europe – www.progpower.eu 4th: Basel, Switzerland - www.z-7.ch 7th: Essen, Germany – www.turock.de 8th: Copenhagen, Denmark - venue tba Please check the band's homepage for updates on shows, price, ticket sale links, etc. Direct support act will be the Italian prog-masters Kingcrow, who released their fourth album "Phlegethon" through Scarlet Records, last year. WebLinks: www.redemptionweb.com / www.insideout.de. CHECK OUT 'METALUSION' BY GLEN DROVER: Hollywood, CA (March 3, 2011) – Glen Drover unleashes his NEW instrumental masterpiece on Magna Carta Records, April 5th to the world. Drover's extraordinary talent of arranging/composing lends to the new music's fresh melodies for songs that shows his true diversity and only in Glen Drover's musical notes will you understand: Members: Glen Drover - Guitars, Jim Gilmour - Keyboards, Paul Yee - Bass, Chris Sutherland - Drums With the release of his solo debut, Metalusion, guitarist Glen Dover, best known for his precision and power playing with headbanger stalwarts Megadeth and Eidolon, blends the technically demanding musicianship that typified the classic jazz-rock genre with the venom and attack of modern metal. The instrumental, 10-track Metalusion, featuring five original compositions and metallic- edged interpretations of material composed by rock and jazz-rock giants Frank Zappa, Al DiMeola and Jean-Luc Ponty, melds the robust properties of distinct sonic strains that reveals a new and mysterious element on the periodic table of musical genres. Metalusion presents a side of Drover's musical identity that the metal community has rarely witnessed, while boasting diverse yet highly cohesive tracks. "Each song should sound as though it was meant to be included on the record," says Drover. "Nothing should seem as though it's out of place." Assisting Drover with forging a perfect musical balance is Canadian multi-instrumentalist and bassist Paul Yee (who co-engineered the record), drummer Chris Sutherland (Kim Mitchell), Saga's Jim Gilmour on keyboards and a number of special guests, including Nevermore's power metal/prog metal guitarist Jeff Loomis, Opeth's and Talisman's ass-kicking axe man Fredrik Åkesson, veteran Steve Smyth of the Bay Area's rejuvenated Forbidden, Ohm's guitar maven and erstwhile Megadeth genius Chris Poland and classical metal master Vinnie Moore of UFO. Glen Drover is regarded internationally as one of the greatest players in the industry. Starting his recording career playing with such bands as Testament, King Diamond and of course let's not forget the multi-platinum award-winning metal band Megadeth. Drover remains one of the most active guitarists in the shred guitar scene today. His rise to Platinum success and cult status with founding member Dave Mustaine of the legendary and highly successful progressive metal band Megadeth proves Glen Drover's has got what it takes to explore the outer limits of extreme instrumental music. For more information click on www.magnacarta.com.

 

 

Saturday, March 05, 2011

SAMMY HAGAR CLARIFICATION: It seems a couple of people have mis-read yesterday's news item regarding Sammy Hagar and attributed one reporters negative comment against Sammy as being from me. Not so. I remain ever respectful of Sammy and continue to admire his attitude and his work. The comment in yesterday's news was quoted inside a news item written by Steve Newton of Vancouver's Straight.com. I'll try and edit the piece to better reflect that. Direct any complains to him if you please! Over and out...

 

 

Friday, March 04, 2011

POODLES PREVIEW PERFORMOCRACY: The Poodles are ready to launch their new studio album Performocracy, with an official European release due April 15. Check out the album promo directly below and the band talking further about the new album here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBYuhrWXMjk.   SAMMY HAGAR SEES RED IN NEW BOOK: Sammy Hagar has updated his website with a new section dedicated to his upcoming book Red (due March 15 worldwide). Check it out at: www.redrocker.com/red. From the page: "Sammy Hagar—legendary lead singer of Van Halen, founder of the Cabo Wabo Tequila brand, and one of rock music's most notoriously successful performers—tells his unforgettable story in this one-of-a-kind autobiography of a life at the top of the charts. From his decade-long journey alongside Eddie Van Halen to his raucous solo career with Chickenfoot and everything in between—the drugs, groupies, and excesses of fame, the outrageous stadium tours, and the thrill of musical innovation—Hagar reveals all in this treasure trove of rock-and-roll war stories. Red is a life-changing look at one of music's biggest talents—an essential read for music fans and anyone dreaming of becoming rock's next number one star." And this article from: www.straight.com: "On March 15 Sammy Hagar's autobiography, Red: My Uncensored Life in Rock, will hit bookshelves, but you can bet his old bandmate Eddie Van Halen won't be racing out to score a copy. According to excerpts published recently in the Marin Independent Journal, the 63-year-old "Red Rocker" holds nothing back about the guitar hero—like how he looked before their Van Halen reunion tour in 2003. "I hadn't seen him in 10 years," writes Hagar. "He looked like he hadn't bathed in a week. He certainly hadn't changed his clothes in at least that long. He wasn't wearing a shirt. He had on a giant overcoat and army pants, tattered and ripped at the cuffs, held up with a piece of rope. I'd never seen him so skinny in my life. He was missing a number of teeth and the ones he had left were black. His boots were so worn out he had gaffer's tape wrapped around them and his big toe still stuck out." Neither is Hagar complimentary toward David Lee Roth, the original (and now current) Van Halen vocalist, whose position he took over in 1985. "I hated Dave," he writes. "The guy rubbed me wrong. I'm sure I rub all kinds of people wrong, so it's not like I'm putting him down. The guy was a great front man, great attitude in rock, and had an image from hell, but I just couldn't stand the guy. He was the opposite of what I believed in and what I am. First of all, the guy's not a great singer and he acts like he's the coolest, hottest guy in the world when, to me, he looks gay." During the initial Hagar era Van Halen released four multi-platinum studio albums, all of which hit #1 on Billboard, but many longtime fans decried the poppier direction the band took in comparison to its raunchy early style. After he was "unceremoniously fired" (Hagar's words) in 1996, he went on to form his own band, the Waboritas, who he still plays with. More recently he formed a "supergroup" called Chickenfoot that features guitar wizard Joe Satriani, but the less said about them the better. He's also known as a successful businessman, owner of the Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and founder of the Cabo Wabo tequila company, which he's made millions from. Hagar first tasted fame on a major scale with the anti-speed-limit single "I Can't Drive 55", which was released the year before he was recruited by Van Halen. But I always thought his best work had been accomplished more than 10 years earlier, when he sang on the first two Montrose albums, the self-titled 1973 debut and 1974's Paper Money. Back in the day I was also mightily impressed with his debut solo album, 1976's Nine On a Ten Scale, and its two follow-ups, both from '77, Sammy Hagar (better known as "The Red Album") and Musical Chairs. All three of those albums were produced by a guy known only as Carter. I never got to see Montrose, sadly, although I remember friends saying they played at Empire Stadium one summer, opening for Heart or something. But I did get to see Hagar play at the Commodore Ballroom around '77, and he was a crimson dynamo back then, trading flashy guitar solos with lead player Gary Pilh. He'd also taken the Montrose rhythm section of bassist Phil Church and drummer Denny Carmassi with him, which was killer. I really loved Sammy Hagar back then. Now, not so much. That tequila of his sure hits the spot, though." ~ Steve Newton. Full Article here: www.straight.com/article-377017/vancouver/sammy-hagar-tears-strip-eddie-van-halen-upcoming-autobiography. METAL HEAVEN ON YOUTUBE: Metal Heaven artists are ready to rock with their new video clips! Check them out now: Wicked Sensation feat. Andi Deris (from Helloween): My Turn To Fly - www.youtube.com/watch?v=9A8Pc07Rjs4 M.ill.ion – Everyday Hero - www.youtube.com/watch?v=6HA05EcG-dA Sideburn – Jail promo clip - www.youtube.com/watch?v=2u1yPKVXnNQ A personal note from Sideburn: "As an old school band, Sideburn truly believe that nothing is better than a real album. So to thank all of you who bought the CD version of "Jail", we will give you the opportunity to received 2 live songs recorded live at a Swiss radio station for free. Just send us by email, at the following address, a picture of you holding our new CD (you can hide yourself if you want) and we'll send you the 2 songs as .mp3 per email: sideburn_rock@hotmail.com. Note: we will not use those pictures for anything else than to see if you've really bought it!" MARTIE PETERS SET FOR RETURN: Martie Peters is back in business! And this time he's joined by former Mike Tramp/Pretty Maids guitarist Rene Shades. The band - Shades & Peters. The latest info on the recording of the album sees Bryan Adams drummer Mickey Curry in the Studio laying down drums on 3 new songs including a version of an old Bryan Adams Tune called What's It Gonna Be. Kevin Savigar has also been recording Piano, Keyboards and Accordion parts. In the early 1990's, Martie Peters formed a band called Push and released four albums from 1996-2002 on a UK label. PUSH enjoyed moderate success overseas and created a cult following with fans from all over the world. PUSH toured with the likes of Pretty Maids, Ronnie James Dio and Royal Hunt, played shows in Sweden, Holland, Belgium and the U.K. to support all four albums. Reviews were fair, but a modern sound, raw guitars and multi-layered vocals became the trademark of the band and people began to take notice. On a number of occasions, Martie has worked with Mike Tramp of White Lion and the two begun a friendship that has lasted through the years. Martie performed backing vocals for Mike Tramp's albums "Remembering White Lion" (1999), "More To Life Than This" (2003) which was recorded at the famous Sweet Silence Studio and engineered by Flemming Rasmussen (Metallica) and "Songs I Left Behind" for Frontiers Records (2004). After Push went on hiatus in 2002, Martie wanted to grow as a singer and songwriter. He continues to define himself as a solo artist by pushing the limits of his songwriting, trying new vocal and musical styles and working with outside writers. With this change, Martie has since moved on to form his new band, The Martie Peters Group. The band released their self titled debut album in 2005 through MTM Records. In June of 2006, Martie wrote and recorded the official anthem for his favorite football (soccer) team Lyngby Boldklub. The single, performed by The Martie Peters Group, is in Danish and is called "Lyngby Boldklub's Viking Vender Hjem" (Lyngby Boldklub's Viking Returns). It has been released through the official club site (Note: the site is in Danish) and is also available in the souvenir shop. The song is played for over 2000 fans during every home game. In January 2007, "Shallow," was selected and entered into the Rock category of the 2006 International Songwriting Competition and was considered for the finals, but sadly didn't make the cut. However, with over 14,000 songs entered, making it that far along in the competition was a great accomplishment for the band, proving that it's all about the music and people noticed. In October 2007, The Martie Peters Group played the Melodic Rock Festival in South Bend, Indiana (www.melodicrock.com/southbend) and was one of the artists along with Jeff Scott Soto, 7th Heaven, Kevin Chalfant and Goodbye Thrill that opened for Nashville's All-Star Scrap Metal featuring Kelly Keagy (Night Ranger), Gunnar & Matthew Nelson (Nelson), Mark Slaughter (Slaughter) and Eric Martin (Mr. Big). Other guests: Jim Peterik (ex-Survivor, Pride Of Lions), Jimi Jamison (ex-Survivor), Jack Blades (Night Ranger, Damn Yankees) and Joe Lynn Turner (Rainbow, Deep Purple). The show drew fans and press from seven countries and 34 states, filling two downtown hotels. Look forward to the new CD from Martie Peters and his longtime friend Rene Shades (Guitar)(Mike Tramp, Pretty Maids, Vegas Vampire). The New CD has musicians who have recorded and played live with Rod Stewart, Elton John, Bryan Adams, The Babys, Eurythmics and Tower of Power. WebLink: www.shadesandpeters.com.   STEVEN TYLER LAUNCHES MOBILE PLATFORM WITH NEW APP: Los Angeles, CA (March 3, 2011) – The iconic rocker and American Idol judge, Steven Tyler has launched his new mobile App, "Steven Tyler's AppSoLewdly" today, available exclusively at the iTunes app store. For $2.99, fans can have access to exclusive, unpredictable, and uncensored content including self made videos, never before seen photos and other noises from his head like a digital sound box filled with his most outrageous and funny "Tylerisms." The app can be purchased at: itunes.apple.com/us/app/steven-tyler-appsolewdly/id420293536?mt=8&ls=1. Straight from his mind, Tyler's self-created App is an intimate journey in the daily and deeply personal adventures of the Demon of Screamin' himself! Chronicling everything from his new life in California, to the set of American Idol and into the depths of working in the recording studio this is the one and only place to see the full and un-edited man himself. Just like Steven, you can never predict what videos or photos will be available, so fans should be sure to check the App often. Steven Tyler is the iconic songwriter, lyricist, author, composer and voice of Aerosmith - America's Greatest Rock and Roll band - and is considered one of rock's most recognizable and dynamic frontmen. Rolling Stone Magazine has cited him one of the greatest singers of all time. He is currently a judge on American Idol, a role for which The New York Times referred to him as "genius" in. His long anticipated autobiography, Does The Noise In My Head Bother You? is set for release in May 2011. A new Aerosmith record is expected later this year and a tour has been confirmed with dates to be announced. For more information on Steven Tyler, please visit: www.steventyler.com / twitter.com/iamstevent / www.facebook.com/steventyler. BOOK OF HISTORIC BAY AREA METAL PHOTOGRAPHS TO APPEAR THIS FALL : Legendary San Francisco Bay Area metal photographers Brian Lew (Whiplash fanzine) and Harald "O." Oimoen (D.R.I.) have joined forces to create the large-format hardcover photo collection Murder In The Front Row: Bay Area Bangers and the Birth of Thrash Metal. Coming this fall from Bazillion Points Books, this intense look at early hardcore headbangers features some of the first photos of the "Big Four" and their extended family of thrash metal bands. With hundreds of candid, live, and studio shots, Lew and Oimoen celebrate the unique wild-eyed spirit and atmosphere of the historic S.F. Bay Area heavy metal scene: pinpointing clubs (The Old Waldorf, The Stone, Ruthie's Inn, The Omni); hangouts (The Record Vault, the infamous Metallica Mansion); and beloved local figures like fearless stage diver Toby Rage, manager Debbie Abono, and the unrivaled metal ringmaster Paul Baloff of Exodus. Among the jaw-dropping moments in heavy metal history on display: Cliff Burton's first rehearsal with Dave Mustaine-era Metallica; Kerry King of Slayer performing with early Megadeth; Metallica and Slayer's first Bay Area shows; the first meeting of Slayer and Metallica; original uncropped prints of Possessed's blood-spattered "Seven Churches" band photo shoot; some of the earliest photos of Vio-lence and Death Angel; Testament (then called Legacy) dressed in religious stage outfits; the crazed front row faces from legendary Ruthie's Inn; and Metallica's triumphant takeover of Day on the Green in 1985. At roughly 300 pages, filled with unpublished images and rare flyers, this incredible visual time capsule stems from a friendship that started when Brian Lew and Harald O. first met as camera-wielding teenage metalheads. Both later contributed to Ron Quintana's infamous Metal Mania fanzine. Says Harald O.: "I am so psyched on getting these photos out there. The camaraderie and great friendships forged between all the bands and the fans was so cool-there literally wasn't much distinction. Everybody was pals with everyone else, and it was a magical time to be a metalhead living in the Bay Area. People are gonna freak on what we're gonna show them. This is a dream come true!" Says Brian Lew: "This will not be a history book, but rather a time machine back to the 'bonded by blood' days of the original Bay Area metal scene. Before they played the Bay Area, Slayer wore makeup onstage; after that first Bay Area show they never wore makeup again. This book will show people why." Murder in the Front Row: Bay Area Bangers and the Birth of Thrash Metal, by Brian Lew and Harald "O." Oimoen. [ISBN 978-1-935950-03-5] Coming Fall 2011 from Bazillion Points Books, America's smallest but heaviest book publisher. www.murderinthefrontrow.com. LOKERSE FEESTEN 2011 LINE-UP ANNOUNCED: Belgium's Lokerse Feesten has announced the 2011 line-up of artists as follows: 31 JUL - Dream Theater, Channel Zero. 2 AUG - Kyuss Lives, Triggerfinger, Airbourne 5 AUG - Robert Plant & The Band Of Joy, Paolo Nutini, Gabriel Rios. Details: www.lokersefeesten.be. MELODIC BRIEFS: Wendy Dio is behind plans for a new Ronnie James Dio Tribute album with guest vocalists likely to include Glenn Hughes, Bruce Dickinson, Rob Halford and Ozzy Osbourne. Little Caesar are back on the road, with frontman Ron Young reporting that the band is headed to Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Holland, Italy and Czech Republic. Stephen Pearcy hit Twitter this week to declare: "RATT w/me involved will not be active 2011, maybe longer. No new record, tour, or life w/me until things R back on track! Until then, M.I.A." GARY SCHUTT TRIO IS OPENING FOR THE LEGENDARY PAT TRAVERS: From Gary Schutt: "Pat has been one of my guitar idols since the early 80s when I first heard "Boom Boom Out Go The Lights" on WPDH in Poughkeepsie NY. Remember the hit "Snortin' Whiskey"? The "Go For What You Know, Live" and "Radioactive" albums are two of my all time favorites! To be on the same bill is an honor! Not to mention, former PT bassist Mars Cowling is in my "Animal Man" video and he rehearsed and jammed with me and drummer Mike Luciano around 1998 but never gigged out. Pat Travers with guest Gary Schutt, The Local 662, 662 Central Ave, St Petersburg, FL, Thursday March 17th, Doors at 7:00 Advance tickets $12 Our local fans can get them at any Category Three show, through any of the guys in the band or at Ticketmaster." ROCKER TURNED NOVELIST PUBLISHES AWARD-WINNING BOOK: Robert Goble, former keyboardist, lead singer and songwriter of the 1980s Utah-based band Midnight Rose, has taken up writing in recent years and works tirelessly to hone his craft. Robert was awarded the 2010 Marilyn Brown Unpublished Novel Award for his novel, "Across A Harvested Field" and subsequently secured a publishing deal. "Across A Harvested Field" tells the story of Jordan Fairchild, a young man who rents out his basement to a quiet, reclusive girl who goes by the name of Nattie. Little does Jordan know that his girl-next-door renter is actually the world famous pop star Natalia Antonali, who recently disappeared from the public eye; little does he know how much his friendship will come to mean to her, and how she hopes Jordan never discovers the truth. The novel explores themes of loss, friendship, and redemption. With a love of classic hard rock and country music interwoven throughout, together with the author's excellent prose and original lyrics, "Across A Harvested Field" takes the reader along on an emotional, musical, and spiritual journey. For more information: www.robgoble.com / www.parablespub.com/acrossaharvestedfield.html.   MRX UPDATE: MRX has been updated with the following new features - - Showdown - Showdown (1984) - Steve Plunkett - Demos - The Fanatics - Demos (US 90) MRX Membership Details. Join Instantly. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: Added today is 4 new CD Showcases for Metal Heaven - M.ill.ion, Sideburn, Oliver Weers and China. Check them out now. NEXT WEEK & COMING UP: A lot of updates due next week - more CD Showcases and a host of big new Reviews. Additionally, while things may seem quiet on the surface, a whole range of things are going on behind the scenes. Coming up is the MelodicRock Mega-Auction to raise further funds for the future of the site. Expect signed and cool items to bid on from the likes of: Rock Sugar, Mass, Doug Aldrich, Dave Meneketti, Robin Beck, House Of Lords, FM, Firehouse, JSS, Styx, Bangalore Choir + much more. If any artists would like to help out MelodicRock.com and contribute to the auction - please let me know! I have been holding off doing a big MelodicRock Records update due to a few delays in finalizing expected delivery dates for audio masters. I will announce everything due for 2011 soon and just when you can expect these releases. Looking like a great year ahead. And despite not making much mention of it, I have been continuing to work on the 2010 MelRock Awards. They are coming together nicely, but lots still to do as 2009 Awards are also included. Online ETA TBD. Lastly - one final call for any artist interest in participating in MRCD8. Email if interested.

 

 

Thursday, March 03, 2011

ENBOUND SIGNS WITH INNER WOUND RECORDINGS: Inner Wound Recordings are proud to announce the signing of the Swedish melodic power metal band Enbound to the label. Their debut album "And She Says Gold" will be released in Europe on April 29th and a release date for Japan will be announced shortly. Enbound features vocalist Lee Hunter [Lars Safsund] also known for his work with the band Work of Art, as well as performing in musicals like Jesus Christ Superstar, in the TV program "Singing Bee" on Swedish television and performing with Biondo in the Rumanian Eurovision song contest 2008. "And She Says Gold" was mastered by Bjorn Engelmann [Rammstein, Primal Fear, Sonata Arctica] at Cutting Room and the artwork was created by Thomas Ewerhard [Avantasia, Masterplan, Edguy]. "And She Says Gold" is a masterpiece of melodic power metal, and definitely one of the best debut albums to come out during the last ten years in the scene. The powerful arrangements that characterize Enbound, together with the smooth and emotional vocals by Lee Hunter, Enbound has created something special. Fans of melodic metal and hard rock will for sure love the sound of Enbound, and the future of the band is really exciting! Do not miss out on this new Swedish melodic metal sensation! Pure gold! Enbound is: Chromium carbide: Swede, Lithium oxide: Lee Hunter, Cupronickel: Marvin Flowberg, Cementite: Mike Cameron Force. And She Says Gold track listing: 01. Combined The Souls 02. Descending 03. Noiseless Bullet 04. Squeals Of War 05. Frozen To Be Feat. LaGaylia Frazier 06. Under A Spell 07. Untitled X 08. I Am Lost To You 09. Shifting Gears 10. Love Has Come 11. The Broken Heart 12. Running Free 13. Me And Desire 14. Beat It [European CD bonus track]. Visit the official Enbound MySpace profile to listen to the entire opening track "Combined The Souls" as well as some other samples off the album: www.myspace.com/enboundband.   xx MELODIC BRIEFS: Vocalist/guitarist Toby Jepson (Little Angels/Gun) is working as producer on the next Saxon studio album as well as vocalist for the new Fastway line-up. Both albums due in 2011. Kane Roberts is in the studio, recording with some of his old Alice Cooper buddies (Kip Winger and Ken Mary) for new songs which will be available in time for Firefest in October. See Steve Brown (Trixter/40ft Ringo) and Phil Collen from Def Leppard this Saturday Night March 5, 8pm on Fox News Channel The Mike Huckabee Show, playing a new version of the Leppard Classic Pour Some Sugar On Me. Alice Cooper Band news - Keri Kelli and Jimmy Degrasso are out. Replacements yet to be named. GuitarWorld.com the internet home for Guitar World Magazine is hosting an exclusive stream of the track "Texas Wind" from legendary guitarist Brian Robertson. The song is taken from Robertson's forthcoming album Diamonds and Dirt which will see an April 5th release date in North America via SPV/Steamhammer. Be one of the first to hear "Texas Wind" at: www.guitarworld.com/brian_robertson. John Petrucci reports that Dream Theater have completed writing for their next album and will commence recording shortly. DRAGONFORCE SETTLE UPON NEW VOCALIST: UK based metal heroes Dragonforce have announced that their long search for a new vocalist is finally over. After entries from thousands of hopefuls across the globe, the shred masters supreme welcome 23-year-old Marc Hudson to the band to fill the boots left by ZP Theart, who parted ways with the band in March of last year. "I'm really excited about being a part of the DragonForce family," said Hudson. "It's always been my dream to dedicate my life to making music. I'm going to bring all the power and emotion I can to the songs, and help make the killer new record the fans have been waiting for!" Born in Oxford England, Hudson was picked from the thousands of applications via a number of impressive video auditions and live performances, which left the rest of the band in no doubt that they'd found their man. Since the age of 16, Hudson has been building his vocal skills, gigging with bands in the UK underground scene, developing a powerful style with influences which include Bruce Dickinson, Michael Kiske and Sebastian Bach. Said founding member and guitarist Herman Li: "After almost a year of searching around the globe, it's great to be able to finally tell our fans the good news. Marc's expressive and melodic vocals are sounding phenomenal on the new songs, adding another dimension to the DragonForce sound that I am sure all the fans will love." The band has been working on a new album since early 2010, recording in various studios in California, London and the South of France. The follow up to 2008's hugely successful Ultra Beatdown album will be highly anticipated, with top 10 and top 20 chart positions all over the world and a Grammy Nomination in the United States setting the precedent. With Hudson brought into the fold, the band is enjoying an injection of enthusiasm and hunger that sees Dragonforce prepared to return more focused and determined than ever before. "Everyone in the band is extremely excited about how the new material is shaping up." Continued Li. "We haven't felt this kind of energy in the band for a long time. We can't wait to unleash the next DragonForce album later this year." The new album is expected to hit the shelves in September, with a full world tour to follow. WebLink: www.dragonforce.com.   THAT METAL SHOW RETURNS TO VH1: New York, NY – March 2, 2011 – VH1 Classic's "That Metal Show" is back in Los Angeles and ready to shake things up for lucky season seven on Saturday, March 19 at 11PM ET/PT. Members of some of the biggest metal acts, including Metallica and Whitesnake, grace the "That Metal Show" stage to give viewers a true power hour that all hard rock and heavy metal enthusiasts are certain to love. The boys are back and ready to rock! Eddie Trunk, Jim Florentine and Don Jamieson host the only talk show where all things hard rock and heavy metal are discussed, dissected and debated. Metal musicians and rock royalty, including Kirk Hammett (Metallica), David Coverdale (Whitesnake) and Lita Ford (The Runaways), will be part of the roundtable discussions this season. Guests and premieres dates include the below, at 11 pm ET/PT: 3/19 – Kirk Hammett (Metallica) and Uli John Roth (Scorpions) 3/26 – Ace Frehley (Kiss) and Billy Sheehan (UFO, David Lee Roth) 4/02 – David Coverdale (Whitesnake, Deep Purple) and Lita Ford (The Runaways) 4/09 – Chris Jericho (Fozzy, WWF Wrestling Champion) and Yngwie Malmsteen (Alcatrazz, Steeler, Rising Force) 4/16 – Duff McKagan (Guns N' Roses, Velvet Revolver, Jane's Addiction) and Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Country Communion) 4/23 – Matt Sorum (Guns N' Roses) & Cherie Currie (The Runaways) and Jim Norton (comedian on Opie and Anthony and Howard Stern) 4/30 – Sebastian Bach (Skid Row) and Anvil 5/07 – Carmine Appice (Vanilla Fudge, Ozzy Osbourne Band, Beck Bogert Appice, Rod Stewart)and Dave Meniketti from Y&T Distilling decades of your favorite hard rock and heavy metal into sixty minutes of mayhem; "That Metal Show" will deliver the ever popular 'Stump The Trunk' as well as the triumphant return of 'TMS TOP 5' to your TV every Saturday night at 11pm, only on VH1 Classic. Fans can also catch the complete season six and bonus clips at ThatMetalShow.VH1.com. New episodes of season seven will launch online every Monday morning following the show's on-air premiere. "That Metal Show" is a production of VH1 Classic. Lee Rolontz and Keshia Williams as executive producers for VH1. Jeff Baumgardner serves as producer for the series for VH1. Launched in May 2000, VH1 Classic is a 24-hour network that presents videos, concerts and music specials all day long, featuring the best of rock, soul and pop artists from the 60's, 70's, 80's and 90s, including The Rolling Stones, The Who, Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Bruce Springsteen, Michael Jackson, Prince, Whitney Houston, Madonna, and U2. Learn more at VH1Classic.com. POWER QUEST TO SUPPORT SYMPHONY X IN MARCH: We are pleased to announce that Power Quest were selected as support for North America's progressive metal masters Symphony X on the UK leg of their extended European Tour. The following dates are confirmed: • Mar 22nd - London - Scala • Mar 23rd - Wolverhampton - The Robin 2 • Mar 24th - Sheffield - Corporation These shows will premiere the new material of Blood Alliance, which will be released in Europe from 23rd March and in the US/Canada on 5th April. For a preview, Power Quest released a full album teaser, which can be found here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIQQfnQ4_RI. KOPEK'S DEBUT ALBUM WHITE COLLAR LIES STREETS MARCH 1: Already making their mark in the states, Irish rock trio Kopek (Shane Cooney - drums, Brad Kinsella – Bass and Daniel Jordan – vocals/guitar) are looking forward to their US debut release, White Collar Lies set to hit stores on March 1 on Religion Music via SIN/SonyMusic Independent Network. "Kopek's album gave me the same chills as Nirvana's 'Nevermind'" according to StaticNoise.net, and Hard Rock Haven has called it "a melancholic and honest trail of rock and roll brilliance." The album produced by Glenn Herlihy of Religion Music, mastermind mixer and Grammy winner Tom Lord-Alge and multi Grammy mastering guru Ted Jensen. "White Collar Lies was inspired by the corruption and loss of life we see continuously in our world today, so much so that we have become numb and disconnected from each other. The album is an attempt to draw attention to this and maybe change some peoples' ideas, or at least give them a push in the right direction," explains frontman Dan Jordan. The first single, the riff-erotious "Cocaine Chest Pains," is about to enter the Top 30 at Active Rock and infesting the radio airwaves with over 50 radio stations supporting the track. An onslaught of rock explodes in an ode to the temptations we all face on a daily basis. "Most people have an addiction and it doesn't take an illegal substance to have one. Think obviously alcohol, nicotine, prescription drugs etc, but also coffee, Internet, TV, some people are even addicted to work". Explains Jordan. Relentless road warriors, Kopek just wrapped up a six week tour with Hinder, My Darkest Days and Saving Abel and will be headed out on tour with Cold starting March 15th. PIONEERS OF NWOBHM TOKYO BLADE ANNOUNCE NEW STUDIO ALBUM: Reformed pioneering NWOBHM (New Wave Of British Heavy Metal) band Tokyo Blade release their brand new studio album entitled Thousand Men Strong worldwide on March 18th, 2011. Lead guitarist & founder member Andy Boulton said: "We're viewing 'Thousand Men Strong' as our third album, or rather the album that should have been, so to speak. It's the natural follow-up to 1984's 'Night Of The Blade' as all the songs hark back to the glory days of NWOBHM. We deliberately recorded the whole thing in a very live manner and in about a week, just like a lot of albums were recorded back in the early '80s. No keyboards, no bullshit — just 100% heavy metal." Produced by Grammy-nominated producer Chris Tsangarides (Ozzy Osbourne, Judas Priest, Thin Lizzy), the album contains nine brand new tracks plus a reworking of the anthemic title track from the aforementioned 'Night Of The Blade'. The 2011 Tokyo Blade line-up includes four of the five original members, Andy Boulton (guitar), Andy Wrighton (bass), John Wiggins (guitar) and Steve Pierce (drums) and is completed by powerhouse vocalist Nicolaj Ruhnhow. Official Website: www.tokyoblade.com. ARIZONA ROCK/METAL TRIO HELLEN HAS RELEASED THEIR FIRST FULL-LENGTH CD: Arizona rock/metal trio Hellen has released their first full-length CD entitled Sorry For Screaming. The CD will be available starting March 5th on Amazon.com, iTunes and a host of other download providers. The physical CD will be available through the bands website at www.myspace.com/hellen or from: mindyduponte.com. Drummer and lead vocalist Mindy DuPonte says: "Sorry for Screaming" is an album that shows how the band can move comfortably through genres while retaining our heavy dark edge. We are very excited to have it out there!" Hellen features Mindy DuPonte on drums and vocals, Ryan Abel on guitar, and Andrew Heath on bass. CD mastering was done at the "Saltmine" Mesa, AZ Song listing as follows: 1. Intro 2. Let's set it off 3. Follow me 4. Pony 5. There goes my head 6. HA HA 7. Belong 8. Slaughterhouse 9. It's not worth it 10. Dr Jekyll and Mrs. Fine 11. Bury me alive....Plus bonus hidden track. Cover art by artist Emy Storey of Storey Elementary who has done cover artwork for bands like Tegan & Sara, Death Cab For Cutie and many more.   xx

 

 

Wednesday, March 02, 2011

DAVID COVERDALE DUE ON ROCKLINE: David Coverdale will be the featured guest on the US nationally syndicated radio show Rockline with host Bob Coburn on Wednesday March 9, 2011 at 8:30pm PT / 11:30pm ET as part of our ongoing series "Notes on Music" featuring career long Greatest Hits as presented by David and then again on Wednesday March, 30 at 8:30pm PT / 11:30pmET for the new Whitesnake album, "Forevermore". For a station near you and for information regarding how to log onto the Internet for the broadcast go to www.RocklineRadio.com Each show will be streamed on the Rockline website for two weeks beginning the afternoon after their broadcast. DEF LEPPARD RECORD NEW SONGS FOR 'MIRRORBALL' LIVE ALBUM IN JUNE: From Billboard.com: "Def Leppard will offer an early taste of its next studio album with three new songs that will be part of a live album, "Mirrorball," which is due out this summer. The group is also planning to release a retrospective book, "Def Leppard, The Definitive Visual History," featuring more than 30 years of photographs by Ross Halfin, in June. "When we decided to do (the live album), it just got said -- I don't know by who -- 'Why don't we chuck a couple of new songs on the end?'" frontman Joe Elliott tells Billboard.com. "And that two became three, and in fairness it could've been four if we'd just had a little bit more time. But we wanted to tour this summer, so any fourth or fifth song we had brewing, we'll save them for the next record." Elliott composed "Undefeated," which he describes as "a very Queen-type vocal thing. It even features piano and stuff." Guitarist Phil Collen's "All About Believin' " is "a pop-rock song," while bassist Rick Savage's "Kings of the World" is "a big, epic, rock anthem that will sound great in arenas and stadiums all over the world -- kind of 'We Will Rock You' with guitars, if you like." "They're all very different to each other," Elliott adds. "They don't sound specifically like any previous Def Leppard songs, but they sound like Def Leppard songs. They have to have our identity on them, otherwise they might as well be Tom Waits or R.E.M. We have a signature sound that we're not scared of anymore." Elliott says the group will continue to assemble new songs while on the road this summer, working on them backstage in much the same way it made 2008's "Songs From the Sparkle Lounge," which debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200. "If we can pull together the other seven or eight songs we'd like to do," Elliott says, "we'd start recording them when the tour's over and hopefully have them ready for summer of 2012...or if not, then out in the autumn for the Christmas market." The live tracks on "Mirrorball," meanwhile, were recorded during 2008 and 2009. Elliott says Def Leppard records and rates each show and selected the performances -- which will include "Pour Some Sugar on Me," "Rock of Ages," "Foolin'," "Hysteria," "Photograph" and "Bringing on the Heartache" -- from the very best concerts. "I think one of the reasons a lot of artists used to -- how can I say this -- cheat and clean up their live recordings was because they only recorded the one night," Elliott explains. "Somebody makes the odd mistake and they don't want it going out forever, so they go in and clean it up. We didn't have to do that because we just chose the versions that had no mistakes on them. A very nice luxury. Thank you, technology." "Mirrorball" marks the first official live album in Def Leppard's discography. The group has released a selection of live B-sides over the years and has included live recordings on deluxe editions of its albums, including an edited 1983 show from the Los Angeles Forum for the 2009 "Pyromania" reissue. For the photo book, Halfin and the band tapped a Japanese "uber fan" to sift through some 30,000 images which were ultimately knocked down to 450 dating back to 1979. Elliot says it was an emotional experience. "It was an interesting journey that we've taken together," he notes. "You see pictures of (the late founding guitarist) Steve Clarke and you get a wry smile on your face. It's just a journey. A lot of it was with anger, a lot of it was with humor, a lot of it was with regrets, a lot of it was with honor -- every single emotion you can have over a 30-year period of being in the trenches with these guys." Def Leppard plans to play "Mirrorball's" new songs when it hits the road starting June 7 in Belfast, Ireland. The group will play the Download Festival on June 10 in the U.K., then begins a North American run through the summer that will include a series of dates with Heart, who Elliott says "I'm going to want to stand at the side of the set and watch them play every night." Elliott, meanwhile, will also be touring with his Mott the Hoople-celebrating side band the Down 'N' Outz, which will be opening 10 U.K. shows for Paul Rodgers in April. The group is also "about halfway through" recording a second album, Elliott says, and will be releasing a live DVD with some bonus video material this spring. MOTLEY CRUE/POISON/NYD US TOUR DATES: From Billboard.com: "Motley Crue is teaming with fellow Los Angeles rockers Poison and early influences the New York Dolls for a summer tour to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the band's first album. But it's not being considered a third version of the Crue Fest series. "It's definitely not Crue Fest," drummer Tommy Lee tells Billboard.com. "Crue Fest is, like, five [bands], and this is just the three of us. But it's special because it's another Crue tour and it's summertime, man. That's always special." Lee says the band is "just starting" to talk about it stage production for the jaunt, which begins June 7 in Dallas and so far has 38 dates booked through Aug. 5 in Toma, Wisc. Repertoire decisions, including how to treat the anniversary of 1981's platinum "Too Fast For Love," will be made in April when Lee, Nikki Sixx, Mick Mars and Vince Neil -- recently released from jail in Nevada after serving 10 days of a 15-day sentence for drunk driving -- convene for rehearsals. Meanwhile, Lee is excited about both of the groups that will be accompanying the Crue this summer. "I'm really excited about the Dolls," he notes. "They were in that handful of early inspirations when we were all 17 and 18 years old, looking at their style and their music. So it's cool to go on tour with them." As for Poison, a onetime rival on the Sunset Strip scene during the 80s, Lee says, "I never really got into all that...rivalry or feud. Just go up and bang out your tunes, dude. Who cares about anything else? I really don't." As for new Crue music, Lee says the group planned to have something out this year but was waylayed by various side projects, including his Methods of Mayhem and Sixx's new Sixx: AM album and book. But Lee, who plans to spends part of March DJ'ing and playing drums for Deadmau5 at the Winter Music Conference in Miami, hopes that being on the road will instigate some creativity within the band. "When the four of us are together, which we will be in the summer, that's usually when it goes down," he says. "We record sound checks with new ideas. I always have a studio on my bus. So I would imagine we'll start compiling ideas this summer. It's almost like you've got to get away from home to start writing music." Lee says a home for new songs could be the film adaptation of the Crue's 2002 memoir "The Dirt -- Confessions of the World's Most Notorious Rock Band," which is now on track with Rob Zombie as it's director. "That would be a cool place to release some new music," Lee notes. "It gives new reason for new music. People aren't really buying records these days, so it seems like a good place to maybe put something new from us." The full itinerary for the Motley Crue, Poison and New York Dolls summer tour includes: Jun. 7: Dallas, Texas (Gexa Energy Pavilion) Jun. 9: San Antonio, Texas (AT&T Center) Jun. 10: Houston, Texas (Toyota Center) Jun. 12: Albuquerque, N.M. (Hard Rock Pavilion) Jun. 14: Los Angeles, Calif. (Hollywood Bowl) Jun. 15: San Francisco, Calif. (Bill Graham Civic Auditorium) Jun. 17: Phoenix, Ariz. (Desert Sky Pavilion) Jun. 18: Las Vegas, Nev. (Venue TBD) Jun. 19: Salt Lake City, Utah (USANA Amphitheater) Jun. 21: Kansas City, Mo. (Sprint Center) Jun. 22: Maryland Heights, Mo. (Verizon Wireless Amphitheater) Jun. 24: Minneapolis, Minn. (Target Center) Jun. 25: Milwaukee, Wis. (Bradley Center) Jun. 26: Cincinnati, Ohio (Riverbend Music Center) Jun. 28: Toronto, Ontario (Molson Amphitheater) Jun. 29: Clarkston, Mich. (DTE Energy Music Theatre) Jul. 1: Tinley Park, Ill. (FMB Amphitheater) Jul. 2: Noblesville, Ind. (Verizon Wireless Music Center) Jul. 3: Nashville, Tenn. (Bridgestone Arena) Jul. 5: Hollywood, Fla. (Seminole Hard Rock Live Arena) Jul. 6: Tampa, Fla. (St. Pete Times Forum) Jul. 8: Biloxi, Miss. (Mississippi Coast Coliseum) Jul. 9: Pelham, Ala. (Verizon Wireless Music Center) Jul. 10: Atlanta, Ga. (Aaron's Amphitheater at Lakewood) Jul. 12: Charlotte, N.C. (Verizon Wireless Amphitheater) Jul. 13: Hershey, Pa. (Star Pavilion at Hershey Park) Jul. 15: Uncasville, Conn. (Mohegan Sun Arena) Jul. 16: Camden, N.J. (Susquehanna Bank Center) Jul. 19: Mansfield, Mass. (Comcast Center) Jul. 20: Uniondale, N.Y. (Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum) Jul. 22: Darien Center, N.Y. (Darien Lakes Performing Arts Center) Jul. 23: Saratoga Springs, N.Y. (Saratoga Performing Arts Center) Jul. 24: Pittsburgh, Pa. (Stage AE) Jul. 27: Cheyenne, Wyo. (Frontier Days) Jul. 29: Youngstown, Ohio (Covelli Centre) Jul. 30: Frederick, Md. (Outlaw Jam 2011) Jul. 31: Scranton, Pa. (Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain) Aug. 5: Tomah, Wis. (Fort McCoy)

 

 

Tuesday, March 01, 2011

SIN-ATRA TRIBUTE CD RELEASED MARCH 29: What would timeless songs like "New York, New York," "Lady Is A Tramp," and "Fly Me To The Moon," sound like cranked out of Marshall stacks, crooned by members of Cheap Trick, Twisted Sister, Deep Purple, Anthrax, Mr. Big, or Queensrÿche? This can now be experienced on SIN-Atra, a brand new album to be released by Eagle Rock Entertainment on March 29. This all-star project, created from the team that brought you the merry, molten melodies of We Wish You A Metal Xmas, reinvents the classic songs that the great Frank Sinatra performed and, in turn, made famous. These twelve cherished tunes, written by some of the greatest songwriters of all time, are given a radical hard rock/heavy metal treatment, resulting in electrically charged versions of the classics. Some of the most potent and recognizable voices of rock rework such legendary gems as "I've Got You Under My Skin," "Strangers In The Night," and "That's Life," including Dee Snider, Robin Zander, Glenn Hughes, Joey Belladonna, Geoff Tate, , Tim "Ripper" Owens, Eric Martin, and dUg Pinnick. Producers Bob Kulick, of Kiss and Meat Loaf fame, and Brett Chassen, recreated these songs on guitar and drums, respectively, rounded out by Billy Sheehan (bass) and Doug Katsaros (keyboards, orchestration). Also making an appearance as lead guitarist on "That's Life" is renowned rock guitarist Richie Kotzen. These familiar favorites are beloved the world over, but they've never been heard like this before! "A fantastic CD," says executive producer Wendy Dio, "keeping the era alive with today's musicians." Track Listing: 1.) New York, New York - Devin Townsend (Strapping Young Lad) 2.) I've Got You Under My Skin - Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple) 3.) Summerwind - Geoff Tate (Queensrÿche) 4.) It Was A Very Good Year - Dee Snider (Twisted Sister) 5.) Witchcraft - Tim "Ripper" Owens (Judas Priest, Iced Earth) 6.) Fly Me To The Moon - Robin Zander (Cheap Trick) 7.) Lady Is A Tramp - Eric Martin (Mr. Big) 8.) Strangers In The Night - Joey Belladonna (Anthrax) 9.) High Hopes - Franky Perez (Scars on Broadway) 10.) I've Got The World On A String - dUg Pinnick (King's X) 11.) Love And Marriage - Elias Soriano (Nonpoint) 12.) That's Life - Jani Lane (Warrant). Audio: New York, New York / It Was A Very Good Year / Fly Me To The Moon   INTRODUCING KRUK: The 6th of June will witness the release of the new album by Kruk, a Polish Hard Rock band, formed in 2001 by Piotr Brzychcy and Krzysztof Walczyk. Their second studio album will feature a big surprise! The song "In Reverie", which will promote the album, will include a guest appearance by Doogie White! This charismatic singer is best known to the wide audience for his cooperation with such bands as Midnight Blue, Rainbow, Cornerstore, Yngwie Malmsteen, Rata Blanca and most recently Tank. This anticipated album will surely constitute an obligatory title for all fans of classic rock. Kruk's musicians openly express their joy! They couldn't have hoped for a better present than Ritchie Blackmore's former singer's participation in their musical enterprise! As it turns out, Piotrek Brzychcy, Tomek Wisniewski and Krzysztof Walczyk met White already in 2005 during their gig in Katowice, where they shared the stage with Yngwie Malmsteen. "We were extremely happy that, after the gig, we could give each other high five, that we could make some commemorative photos. Now he sings in our song, he sings our lyrics... on our album. It's hard to believe!" Piotrek says, adding "I remember one of my first conversations with Krzysiek Walczyk, when we expressed our utmost delight over Rainbow's 'Strangers in Us All'. It was back when we were just starting to form Kruk and we had never dreamed that we would ever have the honor of cooperating with Doogie White. We adored White for having set new standards in the Purple-Rainbow family with the way he sang with Blackmore. What he recorded for "In Reverie" is to our utmost satisfaction because you can hear passion and joy in every single note. I don't think there's a more happy band today in the entire universe than us!" At the moment, Kruk are finishing their work on the new album. It will be released by Metal Mind Productions on 6th June. Full info to follow soon. www.metalmind.com.pl / www.myspace.com/metalmindproductions.   METAL HEALTH 2011 AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND TOUR APRIL/MAY 2011: Quiet Riot, Warrant and LA Guns will tour Australia together in April/May. The dates are: Fri 29th April The Palace - Melbourne Sat 30th April Anu Bar - Act Mon 2nd May The Powerstation - Auckland (NZ) Thur 5th May Hq Complex - Adelaide Fri 6th May Metro City - Perth Sat 7th May The Tivoli - Brisbane Sun 8th May The Metro - Sydney Tickets On Sale Now!! Australian Shows via Ticketek: Call 132 849. New Zealand shows via Ticketmaster Tickets on sale soon! Quiet Riot is a Hard Rock phenomenon! The first Heavy Metal band to top the pop chart at #1 on Billboard magazine. The quartet became an overnight sensation thanks to their monster smash album Metal Health (with sales exceeding 10 million) which spawned 2 hit singles that have become synonymous with heavy metal: "Cum On Feel the Noize" and "Metal Health". www.officialquietriot.com Warrant first came into the spotlight with their debut album Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich. The single "Heaven" reached #1 in Rolling Stone and #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Next came the 2x Platinum album Cherry Pie and the gold album Dog Eat Dog. Warrant's albums have achieved sales of over 10 million. www.warrantrocks.com. LA Guns got their start on Los Angeles' Sunset Strip over 20 years ago. Formed in 1986 and signed with Polygram Records in 1987, they recorded their first album that summer. Titled "L.A. Guns", it sold over 750,000 copies and earned the band its first gold album award in 1988. Featuring original members Phil Lewis and Steve Riley, this authentic Hollywood rock band has been touring the US & Europe, and are continuing to tour the world for 2011. LATEST FROM STRIKEFORCE AND SWEET SOUNDS RECORDS: Midwest metal heads Strikeforce are now confirmed for Rocklahoma 2011. Strikeforce are proud to be part of such a great American rock festival. Strikeforce, Whitesnake, Motley Crue, Zakk Wylde - Black Label Society, Cavo, Staind, Texas Hippie Collalition, Blue Tyger, and many other major national and international rock bands are slated to appear! Strikeforce played Rocklahoma 08 after the tornado destroyed the stages! Check out Strikeforce at: www.sweetsounds.us. Upcoming Strikeforce Tour Dates: *Sat Feb 19 - 21 Rock Club St. Louis, MO - special guest Counterfeit Diary *Sat March 12 Boogies Rock Club Benton, Illinois St. Patrick's Day Metal Massacrefest with guest Mr. Lucky *May 27-28 Rocklahoma Pryor, OK Sweetsounds artist Undying Allegiance have a brand new CD released worldwide by Sweetsounds/Tate Music Group and distributed worldwide by E1 Music! The air on everest have released a new CD on Sweetsounds/Republic Records. Check out all the Sweetsounds news and artists at: www.sweetsounds.us. Sweetsounds is currently seeking serious artists for management and worldwide record deals!   xx FIRST UPDATE FOR PROGPOWER EUROPE 2011: Hereby we send you the first newsletter of ProgPower Europe 2011. After a very successful edition in 2010 (1 day was sold-out!), we are now preparing the next edition of the annual prog-metal festival. Once again we will try to offer you an excellent mix of different music styles within the prog (metal) scene. And like previous years we will not only book well-known bands, we also book several young and talented unknown bands. Ticket information: Ticket sales started through our website. We offer weekend tickets and package deals (weekend ticket + bed & breakfast at Kasteel de Berckt for 2 or 3 nights). Check out all details on our website and be sure to order your tickets in time. When available, day-tickets will go on sale in August. Seventh Wonder exclusive headliner for Friday September 30: Swedish band Seventh Wonder will return to ProgPower, this time as headliner on Friday September 30. For the Dutch market this will be an exclusive performance, the band will do not that many gigs in other countries this year as well. Opener for Friday evening will be Dutch band The Barstool Philosophers. One more band will be booked for the first evening, we will keep you informed. In Mourning (Sweden) and Sole Remedy (Finland) confirmed We have booked 2 other Scandinavian bands for ProgPower Europe 2011, both bands will do not any other gig in The Netherlands this year! First of all In Mourning from Sweden will play on Saturday October 1. Finnish band Sole Remedy will play on the last day of ProgPower Europe, Sunday October 2. For both days we have booked Dutch bands to open the festival. On Saturday Schizoid Lloyd will start the second day of the festival, on Sunday Sky Architect will entertain the crowd on the last day. Check out our website for all details, maybe most bands are unknown to you yet, but as always we book those little surprises. And we think that the first 6 bands we have booked are reason enough to come over for another great edition of ProgPower Europe. Feel free to spread the news. Within the next couple of weeks we will book some more bands and keep you informed. www.progpower.eu.

 

 

Monday, February 28, 2011

STAMPEDE ANNOUNCE NEW SINGLE RELEASE: Newly reformed British melodic rockers Stampede are set to unveil their new single "Having Fun" on April 11. The track comes from the forthcoming studio album A Sudden Impulse, which consequently has a revised release date of May 9. "Having Fun", which will be available in digital format only, will be the band's first single in twenty-eight years. It follows previous singles "The Other Side" (1983) from the studio album Hurricane Town, and "Days of Wine And Roses" (1982), which were released by Polydor Records and received considerable airplay on BBC Radio, Capital Radio and across Europe and Japan. Stampede are also pleased to announce the first of three promo videos to give fans a taster of their new material. The videos feature guitarist Rob Wolverson, and were recorded during part of the schedule when Laurence Archer became unavailable due to personal commitments. Watch the first video, "Shame On You" here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=XK1EM2BOjt0. Look out for the official video for 'Having Fun', coming soon. For more information and to hear a preview of the single, visit: www.stampederock.com / www.facebook.com/stampederock. FACTORY OF DREAMS GET MELOTRONICAL: Factory of Dreams will be filming a brand new videoclip for Melotronical. More details soon but we can advance that it'll occur early march and the focus will surely be in creating a truly eerie and dark atmosphere to be close to the Melotronical spirit. It'll be a haunting descent through one's mind and memories... The chosen song is still a mystery, but will be revealed soon @ www.facebook.com/fdofficial. It was a choice between Hugo and Jessica and is among their favorites for a video. More news soon, with pics, scenes and all the usual goodies. Moreover, Melotronical will be available from your favorite chain, digital download service or online reseller worldwide on March 8, 2011. As of now, Melotronical is available from: www.progrockrecords.com/shop/view.php?id=243 and other online stores. WebLinks: melotronical.com / www.reverbnation.com/factoryofdreams.   PRESS RELEASE - TARA'S SECRET RE-ISSUE ALBUMS FOR DOWNLOAD: UK rock band Tara's Secret have re-issued their 2006 album Tomorrow The World and 2009 release Vertigo for download at knockdown prices, with all bonus tracks included. Vertigo has seen the band reach rock music fans across the world, with stunning reviews from Argentina to Japan. Regular comparisons with Thunder, Survivor, Bon Jovi, Whitesnake and Gotthard have filled the reviews, with special attention drawn to the band's songwriting skills, Johnny Trowbridge's soulful vocals and the fiery guitar playing of Richie Beardsley. Tomorrow The World was the band's first studio album released in 2006. A more eclectic mix than Vertigo, brought the band support slots with the likes of Y&T, ACT and Jadis. Both albums were released under the band's own Black Cat Music, despite several label offers. Band founder member Craig Chapman comments that it has been a fantastic and rewarding experience receiving emails and reviews from so many countries, a guy driving 200 miles to buy Vertigo on import in Peru, daytime radio in the North Brazilian jungle towns, Chrysalis taking our music to Japan, over 30,000 web hits most months from so many countries, we've even added Spanish and German language pages to our band website. The band is presently working on more new songs and with gigs including Rock & Blues Festival and MFN, they'll be onstage in front of plenty of UK rock fans again through 2011. Vertigo has been available through both iTunes and Amazon and a third of all sales for the album so far have come via this route. The songs can now also be found at ITunes, Amazon, Spotify, lLike, Mog, Tesco, IMesh, Pastio Tunes, EMusic, Zune, Nokia, Shockhound, Napster, Thumbplay, Imvu & Amazon on Demand. CDs are also still available from ST Records, Destiny and direct from the band's website, whilst stocks last. "Tara's Secret fill the gap in British rock that Thunder will leave behind..." ~ Andrew McNeice. Forthcoming UK live shows include: 11 March - Bolton Gigs Club - Melodic Rock Heaven 20 March - Burton on Trent, Wetmore Whistle Rock Club 07 April - Sheffield, The Sportsman - acoustic show 15 May - Birmingham, Asylum 18 May - Ilkeston, MFN Biker's Club WebLink: www.taras-secret.com.   xx ABOVE SYMMETRY FRONT MAN JOINS KAMELOT FOR OSLO SHOW: Atle Pettersen, charismatic front man of Norway's Above Symmetry, has been invited to join the mighty Kamelot on stage for an exclusive guest appearance, when they return to Oslo on 14th May 2011. After finishing X-Factor Oslo end of 2010 as one of the finalists, the interest in the talented singer is just starting to kick off. Atle comments: "X factor was already a highlight I thought could not be topped. But singing with Kamelot is really going to do that! I have been listening to their music for many years and joining Thomas and band on stage now will be totally awesome! I am very excited about it and can't wait!" Kamelot's Thomas Youngblood adds: 'I recently met with Atle in Los Angeles and he is a super cool dude, and he will kick some ass at the show!" Above Symmetry were formerly known as Aspera and made their debut in 2010 with their first album 'Ripples'. Media across the globe replied with excellent reviews, and 'Ripples' became a steady part of DJs and journalists playlists throughout 2010. The band built up a great following, not only in their home country. They supported Tarja Turunen in Switzerland and Spain and played various festivals in Scandinavia. INTRODUCING FAITHSEDGE: Scarlet Records has signed a deal with Faithsedge for the worldwide release of their much anticipated debut album. Faithsedge was started by singer/songwriter Giancarlo Floridia in Huntington Beach, California, in early 2009. The band's all-star line up includes renowned producer/bassist Fabrizio Grossi (Steve Lukather/Starbreaker), former Dokken guitarist Alex De Rosso and drummer Tony Morra (Rebecca St James,Van Zant). The resulting effort is a perfect mix of hard rock, heavy metal and progressive, with lots of vocals and hooks, shredding guitar solos, pounding bass and drums and plenty of melodically challenging songwriting. 'Faithsedge' was mastered by Tom Baker of Precision Mastering (Judas Priest/Motley Crue). The album will be out on April 19. Get ready for Faithsedge! More info on www.faithsedgemusic.com and www.scarletrecords.it.   xx RECKLESS LOVE TALK NEXT ALBUM: Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine did an exclusive interview with Olli Herman, the frontman of the Finnish hard rockers Reckless Love. Here's an excerpt where Herman talks about the band's upcoming record and the recent reissue of the band's self titled debut record: Rockpages.gr: In November of 2010, you reissued the album with some bonus tracks and a cool subtitle ("Cool Edition"). Was it really necessary to have a reissue only after 9 months from the initial pressing? Reckless Love: Of course it was!! When I like a band, I just love to get my hands on some "extras". It's always great to give the fans something more, even if it's only nine months. This was also a very good idea in the record company's opinion. That's music business at its best!! Rockpages.gr: In this EP, we get to listen to an acoustic version of the Def Leppard smash hit "Hysteria"…why you decided to go with an acoustic take and did you rehearse an electric version of the song? Reckless Love: We just wanted to explore our acoustic side and get a new angle of Reckless Love to our fans. We chose the song cause we all love it and we hadn't recorded a cover before. It also felt like a suitable choice since we recorded the acoustic session in London UK. Yes, we do play an electrified version of it live sometimes. Rockpages.gr: Have you written any new songs and when should we expect the second record? Reckless Love: We've written plenty of new material and the actual recording starts this spring. The new album is due sometime next autumn. Read The Whole Interview Here: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=5258&type=1&lang=EN.

 

 

Friday, February 25, 2011

URIAH HEEP'S INTO THE WILD SCHEDULED FOR RELEASE: Frontiers Records has scheduled the release of Uriah Heep's forthcoming studio album Into the Wild on April 15 in Europe and May 3 in North America. Produced by Mike Paxman (Status Quo, Asia) the new album will include the following songs: Nail On The Head, I Can See You, Into The Wild, Money Talk, Trail Of Diamonds, Lost, Believe, Southern Star, I'm Ready, T-bird Angel, Kiss Of Freedom. The cover art was designed again by the renowned Greek-American artist Ioannis (Lynyrd Skynyrd, Styx, Saga etc). A videoclip for "Nail on the Head" is going to be shot in the coming days and will be added to the album as a special interactive tool. The band has also recently posted a new video recording diary which can be seen following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHl768v25Ho. European and Australian tour dates have been announced already and can be found on the band's official websites. The first leg of the US tour was also recently announced: 6/14/2011 Atlanta GA Variety Playhouse 6/15/2011 Chattanooga TN Riverbend Festival 6/17/2011 Kettering OH Fraze Pavilion for the Performing Arts 6/18/2011 Annapolis MD Rams Head on Stage 6/19/2011 Falls Church VA State Theater 6/20/2011 Sellersville PA Sellersville 6/22/2011 New York BB King Blues Club 6/23/2011 Foxborough MA Showcase Live 6/24/2011 Jim Thorpe PA Penn's Peak 6/25/2011 Ridgefield CT Ridgefield Play House 6/27/2011 Norfolk CT Infinity Hall 8/12/2011 Three Forks MT Rocking the Rivers Festival Site 8/14/2011 Rochester MN Mayo Park WebLinks: www.uriah-heep.com / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   FRONTIERS ANNOUNCE SIGNING WARRANT: Frontiers Records is proud to announce the signing of Warrant, one of the most popular and successful American hard rock bands to come out of the Los Angeles musical scene. The band is currently in the studio recording a brand new album under the direction of Keith Olsen (Scorpions, Whitesnake and Night Ranger). The album tentatively titled Rockaholic is scheduled for a May 2011 Worldwide release. Jerry Dixon commented, "The last few years has been like holding in a big "secret" from the world and now we get to share it. I really think we captured a perfect mix of the past and present on this record. Each song has its own vibe that's going to take people on a kick-ass Warrant rollercoaster ride. To help achieve an old school sound mixed with the flair of today, we called on the legendary Keith Olsen to do the production. There's enough 80's influence on songs like "Tears In The City" & "Sex Ain't Love" to keep the die-hard Warrant fans rocking while introducing them to new material". Warrant has sold over 8 million records worldwide. The band first came into the spotlight with their debut multi-platinum album "Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich", which included the smash hit single "Heaven." The band continued its success in the 90's with the multi-platinum album "Cherry Pie" and the gold album "Dog Eat Dog", both albums providing more hit singles in the Billboard Top 30. "Rockaholic" is sure to add more Billboard action for the band. With singer Robert Mason on lead vocals and original band members Erik Turner and Joey Allen on guitars, Jerry Dixon on bass and Steven Sweet on drums Warrant is ready to spread the Rockaholic addiction to the world. 2011 Rockaholic Schedule: March: US Tour April 29th – May 9th Australia Tour May 13th - M3 Rock Festival September: South America Tour October: European Tour WebLinks: www. warrantrocks.com / www.frontiers.it.   NEW FROM ROCK CANDY RECORDS: Four new Rock Candy titles are available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price of £10.99 for the next two weeks. Starcastle 'S/T CANDY089 - Certainly one of the greatest characteristics of the 1970s was the diversity of musical talent on offer. From proto metal through to punk rock all bases were covered, not least of all the establishment of progressive rock. From the giants of the genre such as Yes, ELP and Genesis through to a multitude of lesser known acts, progressive rock became, against all odds, a standard bearer of quality and class. Starcastle were a fitting addition to the progressive rock ranks. Based in Champaign, Illinois and formed from a couple of local acts, sporting improbable names such as Sea Daddy, St. James and Mad John Fever, the band overcame their geographical isolation by playing anywhere and everywhere, and attracting not only a fevered following but also the attention of label leviathans Epic Records. Fronted by former REO Speedwagon vocalist Terry Lutrell, the band crafted a spectacular debut album, pushing at the boundaries of progressive rock. Think Kansas, Styx, Yes and Gentle Giant for a close approximation of their complex yet easily accessible and melodic sound. No wonder that Boston apparently threatened to kick them off a tour for upstaging them. Originally issued in 1976, the album boasts complex musicianship applied to evocative and melodic songs, all wrapped up in one of the most beautiful and imaginative album sleeves of the era. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album, interview with the band and photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Lady Of The Lake 2. Elliptical Seasons 3. Forces 4. Stargate 5. Sunfield 6. To The Fire Wind 7. Nova. Starcastle 'Fountains Of Light' CANDY090 - During the mid 1970s the popularity of progressive rock was at an all time high with acts such as Yes, Jethro Tull and, especially, ELP enjoying huge album sales and playing to sold out crowds the world over. Of course, shadowing these giants of prog were a number of young upstarts keen to make a challenge for gold and glory, not least of these were American mid-west contenders Starcastle. The band's carefully executed debut album attracted a number of converts, selling something in the region of a quarter of a million copies, resulting in Epic records taking a keener interest. In an effort to up the ante, so to speak, the band was sent into the studio (Morin Heights, Quebec) to record their next album with flamboyant and creative British producer Roy Thomas Baker (Queen, Journey, Foreigner). 'Fountains Of Light' is arguably Starcastle's finest moment. Baker's production is meticulous yet forceful, allowing the band to stretch out and take on the competition without sacrificing integrity or a natural melodic song writing ability. Packed out with hooks to die for and submerged in complex yet accessible arrangements, the album oozes charm and class. Housed in one of the most impressively designed album sleeves of the seventies 'Fountains Of Light' still presses all the right buttons. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album, new interview with band and additional photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Fountains 2. Dawning Of The Day 3. Silver Winds 4. True To The Light 5. Portraits 6. Diamond Song (Deep Is The Light).   xx Survivor 'When Seconds Count' CANDY093 - Their previous album, the note perfect, 'Vital Signs', resuscitated Survivor's career after a period of instability, providing them with a US top 10 album that spawned no less than three hit singles. With the pressure on, the band retired to their native Chicago to write and rehearse their sixth album 'When Seconds Count', a record that would once again prove that Survivor were the kings of the American melodic hard rock scene. Recorded in Los Angeles, produced by long time associate Ron Nevison (Heart, Bad Company, UFO etc) and featuring accomplished vocalist Jimi Jamison, the album picks up perfectly from 'Vital Signs' boasting a number of classic cuts including the anthemic 'Rebel Son', 'How Much Love' and heart rending power ballads 'In Good Faith' and top ten US hit single 'Is This Love'. Make no mistake, 'WSC', originally released in 1986, is a record choc full of great songs, placing Survivor in the pantheon of primo American AOR units, alongside masters of the craft such as REO Speedwagon, Journey and Foreigner. Newly remastered to exacting standards, this version of 'WSC' includes the bonus track 'Burning Heart', a US #2 hit single originally featured in the blockbuster Sylvester Stallone movie Rocky IV, but not included on the original album. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, bonus track, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album, new interview with band and additional photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. How Much Love 2. Keep It Right Here 3. Is This Love 4. Man Against The World 5. Rebel Son 6. Oceans 7. When Seconds Count 8. Backstreet Love Affair 9. In Good Faith 10. Can't Let You Go Bonus Track 11. Burning Heart. Survivor 'Too Hot To Sleep' CANDY094 - Too hot to Sleep' was the last Survivor album to be issued during their eighties heyday. It was a record that took the band back to basics with an urgency fuelled by punchy hi-end production values and razor sharp guitar riffs. It was also an album comprised of instantly catchy tunes, big hooks and vocals, courtesy of Jimi Jamison, to die for. Produced to impressive effect by Frank Filipetti (John Waite, Foreigner etc), Survivors three core members of Jamison, Jim Peterik, Frankie Sullivan recorded the album primarily in New York City, utilising a new rhythm section that included well known drummer Mickey Curry from the Bryan Adams band. The results were spectacular; big, bold and dynamic, with the emphasis on harder rock, yet still retaining their trademark melodic AOR sheen. Originally released in 1988, the album received wide-spread acclaim from Survivor fans across the globe, yet commercially the record suffered from internal label machinations, with their record company Scotti Brothers switching distribution, allowing the record to fall between the cracks. Arguably, after a string of seven albums, it might well have been time to hang up their dancing shoes anyway, bowing out with a classic – certainly their most powerful – statement since 1981's 'Premonition' masterpiece. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album, new interview with band and additional photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. She's A Star 2. Desperate Dreams 3. Too Hot To Sleep 4. Didn't Know It Was Love 5. Rhythm Of The City 6. Here Comes Desire 7. Across The Miles 8. Tell Me I'm The One 9. Can't Give It Up 10. Burning Bridges.   xx QUEENSRYCHE CURRENTLY IN THE STUDIO WRAPPING UP "BOB": Geoff Tate, Michael Wilton, Eddie Jackson, Scott Rockenfield and Parker Lundgren -- collectively and collaboratively known as the rock band, Queensryche -- recently entered the studio to lay down what will be the band's first studio recording since their ambitious American Soldier project in March of 2009. Due out on Roadrunner/Loud & Proud Records later this spring, the working title of the forthcoming effort is once again "Bob." "Our very first demo was recorded on a cassette tape by a guy named Bob," explains front man Geoff Tate. "We've kept that tradition ever since and, to this day, put all of our demos in the original case labeled 'Bob' until we actually have an album title." Very superstitious, indeed. The project has been a true meeting of the creative minds since it began earlier this year. And if you think you know "Bob," think again... The tentative moniker certainly wasn't meant to be a palindrome like Black Sabbath's Live Evil... that's just they way it turned out. "We'll certainly have the name of the album soon," states Tate. "In the mean time, we hope you're getting ready to welcome 'Bob' into your own, individual rock universe." Coming soon. EDEN'S CURSE REVEAL NO HOLY MAN VIDEO: AFM Records have released the brand new promotional video for No Holy Man from multinational melodic metallers Eden's Curse, featuring a guest appearance by Dream Theater vocalist James LaBrie. No Holy Man is the first track to be released from Eden's Curse's forthcoming third studio album, Trinity which will hit the stores on March 18. The single is available now on iTunes. Visit the bands official website at www.edenscurse.com for links to purchase "No Holy Man" and pre-order "Trinity". "No Holy Man" iTunes Link: itunes.apple.com/us/album/no-holy-man-feat-james-labrie/id419619232. "Pre-Order link for "Trinity": www.nuclearblast.de/en/products/tontraeger/cd/cd/eden-s-curse-trinity.html View the killer video here:   MELODIC BRIEFS: Royal Hunt are inviting their fans to participate in creating of their set list for the upcoming shows. In order to contribute with your suggestions – go to www.royalhunt.com, Forum, "Royal Hunt talk", Set List Suggestions. Suite 101 recently completed an interview with former Iron Maiden and Wolfsbane front man Blaze Bayley: www.suite101.com/content/15-minutes-with-bez-starring-blaze-bayley-a351137. The Union's first European shows next month are in support of Triggerfinger (www.triggerfinger.net): For all details go here; www.theuniononline.com/live. Rock Legends Cruise: ZZ Top, George Thorogood and the Destroyers, John Kay and Steppenwolf, The Marshall Tucker Band, Dickey Betts & Great Southern, Foghat, Johnny Winter, Molly Hatchet, The Outlaws, Blackfoot, Pat Travers, SwampDaWamp: rocklegendscruise.com. Cosmos Music Group signed Electric Boys to their rock label Supernova Records. The new album is scheduled for release in March 2011 and is the first album since 1992 with the original line-up; Conny Bloom, Andy Christell, Franco Santunione and Niclas Sigevall. The first single out from the album will be Father Popcorn's Magic Oyster. THE BEST OF CHICAGO'S MODERN MUSIC LEGACY COME TOGETHER AS CANDY GOLDE: 23 February 2011…With more than 100 years of accumulated rock ˜n' roll history as a foundation, Candy Golde is the Midwestern musical collaboration of Nicholas Tremulis, Bun E. Carlos (Cheap Trick) John Stiratt (Wilco) and Rick Rizzo (Eleventh Dream Day). The distinctive blend of blues groove, power pop, Americana and alternative shows itself in the self-titled 5-song Candy Golde EP, to be released by Ten O Nine Records on May 11. Mastered by Ivan Julian of Richard Hell and the Voidoids, Candy Golde contains four originals including the single Trouble's Coming Down and a cover of Paul Simon's Boy in the Bubble, and will be available as limited edition 10 vinyl and digital download. From the opening track, The Hold Steady, which invokes a little INXS and a lot of crunchy, synthy '60s rock, to the slower, somber sway of Why and Where, the sense of musical authenticity is evident, as is the empowered songwriting that comes with age, experience and an unencumbered recording environment. Tremulis is the seasoned troubadour, his lyrics bursting with stories of the streets and his vocals spewing soul. Tremulis (with the Nicholas Tremulis Orchestra) has shared the stage and studio with Keith Richards, Billy Corgan, Marianne Faithful, Mavis Staples, Ronnie Spector, Los Lobos, The Neville Brothers, Steve Earle, Bonnie Raitt, Ian Hunter, David Johansen and long-time cohort Alejandro Escovedo. Carlos' unmistakable robust, solid drumming provides the backbone of Candy Golde. In addition to almost forty years with Cheap Trick, he is involved with a myriad of projects from marching bands to the recent Tinted Windows. He also guested at the smash Waltz charity series put on by Tremulis, backing up Jeff Tweedy and Gary Louris (Jayhawks). Stirratt's dexterous bass muscle was developed in fifteen years with Wilco. He is the only founding member, alongside Jeff Tweedy, to contribute to all the band's releases which have garnered 6 Grammy nominations and a Best Alternative win for A Ghost Is Born in 2005. Stirratt is also in The Autumn Defense (with fellow native New Orleansian/Wilco member Pat Sansone) and records with his sister Laurie Stirratt. Rizzo, co-lead singer of Candy Golde, is known for his signature dazzling guitar notes and moves in Eleventh Dream Day. On the strength of its continued fervent underground fanbase and critical acclaim, the band just released its tenth record, and continues to perform live. Rizzo also records with Tara Key for Thrill Jockey Records. Candy Golde will be debuting live at SXSW at Club de Ville, 11pm on Friday, March 18. The official record release party and performance is April 29 at the Double Door in Chicago. For more information, please visit Candy Golde at candygolde.com, Facebook fan page: tinyurl.com/4g9tqfy and myspace.com/candygolde. PAUL WARDINGHAM: RELEASES SOLO INSTRUMENTAL METAL ALBUM: Australian based guitarist and producer Paul Wardingham, released his debut solo instrumental album, Assimilate Regenerate, this week February 21st 2011 through Enigmatic Records. Described as hi-tech melodic metal, Paul's style combines 7-string mechanical metal grooves, melodic choruses, and otherworldly guitar solos. This album is sure to impress fans of guitar legends like Jeff Loomis and John Petrucci, although musically it shares more in common with artists such as Devin Townsend, Scar Symmetry, Fear Factory, and Meshuggah. Paul Wardingham was recently featured on Universum's latest album "Mortuus Machina" contributing a guest guitar solo on the track "Aeon Displacement". He is also known as one half of the Collins/Wardingham Project, a collaboration with Australian drum phenomenon Grant Collins. Their critically acclaimed progressive metal fusion album "Interactive" was released in 2006 through Enigmatic Records. "Assimilate Regenerate" track listing: 01. Assimilate Regenerate 02. Futureshock 03. Ghost In The Machine 04. Brain Interactive Construct 05. Fields Of Utopia 06. Enter The Metaverse 07. Mindwarp 08. Clones 09. Cyber Warfare 10. Orbital Decay 11. Black Hole Device. For online orders, additional information, videos and soundclips visit: www.paulwardingham.com or www.enigmaticrecords.com. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features: - Gary Moore - Wild Frontier Live In Stockholm - Rat Bat Blue - Squeak (OOP Album) - Tane Cain - The Unreleased Album - Linda Rose - Unreleased Demos MRX Membership Details. Support MelodicRock.com!

 

 

Thursday, February 24, 2011

JOURNEY - FIRST INSIGHT INTO ECLIPSE: Journey have just completed their first live show for 2011 and first since ending their Revelation tour. The Las Vegas date is a warm up for the coming South American tour and the first date of two years of planned touring. The US summer leg will include Foreigner and Night Ranger as support. The band previewed no less than 5 new Eclipse tunes in tonight's set. The complete set list was: Separate Ways, Edge of the Moment (new Eclipse track), Only the Young, Ask the Lonely, Never Walk Away, Send Her My Love, Resonate (new Eclipse track), Stone in Love, Keep on Running (Deen vocal), City of Hope (new Eclipse track), Lights, Open Arms, Chain of Love (new Eclipse track), Mother Father (Deen vocal), Escape, Guitar jam, Wheel in the Sky, Human Feel (Rise Up) (Eclipse track), Be Good to Yourself, Faithfully, Don't Stop Believin', Encore: Anyway You Want It, Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'. Thanks to MR regular Rip, you can check out each new track via YouTube footage of tonight's show now: Resonate: www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTM1_CUKtp0 Chain of Love: www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIBvmm9bQ0k Edge Of The Moment: www.youtube.com/watch?v=LsWOhNdmlfg City Of Hope: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ceSmLs2wO4I Human Feel: www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8N_0n4kmu8 As you can hear, this album is going to be a rocking affair and less commercial than possibly anything that has come before it. Guitar freaks are going to be all over this. I have been listening to the studio version of the lead album cut City Of Hope over and over again. This is an incredible track. It packs a punch from the opening riff, features duel guitars throughout and piano is used to fill the sound. There is a strong verse, a shifting bridge and an anthemic chorus in the vein of Faith In The Heartland and Never Walk Away. Deen Castronovo pounds away, but the song belongs to Neal Schon, who shreds from start to near finish. The last 90 seconds of the track is a double, then triple time drum/guitar shred-fest that turns the track heavier. Just tremendous stuff and glorious to hear in such a melodic setting! Now, every band can come up with a classic song, but the intensity, power and guitar overdrive of this song, coupled with the usual anthemic flair of Journey's classic style leaves one with a very positive outlook towards the coming album. If the lead track can be filled with such power, then the rest of the album promises to be a real revelation (no pun intended!). ESCAPE MUSIC WELCOME NEW SHADOWMAN IN APRIL: Escape Music are pleased to announce the release of the brand new Shadowman album Watching Over You, due out April 22. Produced by Steve Morris and mixed by Tommy Hansen, the album is set to feature 12 new songs - 1-Across The Universe 2-Renegades 3-Cry 4-Watching Over You 5-Are You Ready 6-Suzanne 7-Waiting For A Miracle 8- Stop Breaking This Heart Of Mine 9- Heaven Waits 10- Whatever It Takes 11-Justify 12-Party Is Over. Line-Up: Steve Overland (FM) – Lead Vocals, Steve Morris (Heartland) – Guitars & Keyboards, Chris Childs (Thunder) – Bass, Harry James (Thunder) – Drums. Exclusive full track download: Suzanne It has been seven years since the debut album by Shadowman was released ("Land of the Living" ESM098). The album was warmly received by all who had a penchant for good old British melodic hard rock. As you would expect Shadowman had elements of both Heartland and FM deeply embedded in its grooves, yet it was highly original and was often touted as the best British melodic release of 2004. Two years later in 2006 and the eagerly awaited follow up "Different Angles" (ESM 127) became an important album for this quartet that also includes both Harry James and Chris Childs of Thunder. The unmistakable guitar trademark sound of Steve Morris and the vocals of Steve Overland will always shine through at a very early stage. Somehow they make their music sound effortless, and as we all very well know Steve Overland has a remarkable vocal range. His vocal range suits the classic melodic rock genre and he has a very bluesy side to his talent. His solo releases "Breakaway" (ESM170) and Diamond Dealer (ESM198) are both beautiful examples of his work. Shadowman are a band that is all about great rock music who will win you over with charm. Quality rock music is so hard to find these days and it is reassuring to know that it hasn't lost its way. "Ghost in the Mirror" (ESM179), the band's third release in 2008 is an extension of the band's already established sound, with some clever twists on the way. Three albums under their belt and how can the band hone that sound into something that little bit more special? Enter "Watching Over You", a brand new release for 2011. These boys just mature nicely as time passes and new songs like "Renegades", "Waiting for a miracle" and "Are you Ready" will set pulses racing. Once again Tommy Hansen is at the mixing desk, his capabilities need no introduction. This new release is set to be a top ten contender for 2011! Discography: Land of the Living (ESM098), Different Angles (ESM127), Ghost in the Mirror (ESM179), Watching Over you (ESM224). LabelLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   CLASSIC ROCK PRESENTS WHITESNAKE MEGA-ISSUE: Classic Rock is proud to announce the launch of our latest Fan Pack, dedicated to David Coverdale and Whitesnake. The Whitesnake Fan Pack follows hard on the heels of our acclaimed Slash and Motörhead packs. It includes a 132-page magazine along with Forevermore, Whitesnake's brand spanking new studio album. There's also an official Whitesnake pin badge and a giant-size poster. Fans who buy the Whitesnake Fan Pack will be able to hear Forevermore three weeks before it goes on sale in the record stores. What's more, the Fan Pack version of Forevermore comes with two bonus live tracks – Slide it In and Cheap An' Nasty – recorded live at Whitesnake's headline set at the Castle Donington Monsters Of Rock festival in 1990. So that's 13 brand new studio tracks plus two bonus ones – a lot of Whitesnake music to sink your fangs into! The bonus live tracks will not be on the record-store version of Forevermore. What's more, the CD cover for the Fan Pack Whitesnake album will feature exclusive artwork that will not be used on the record store equivalent. The bonus live tracks will serve as an appetizer for Whitesnake's forthcoming Live @ Donington 1990 DVD and double CD to be released in summer 2011. The Fan Pack magazine – which is being edited by Geoff Barton – contains a major, all-new interview with Whitesnake mainman David Coverdale, conducted at his home in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, USA. Forevermore was recorded at Coverdale's home studio and we were there while it was being made. Coverdale also talks us through the new album, track by track. Additionally, we have new interviews with the other Whitesnake band members: guitarists Doug Aldrich and Reb Beach, bassist Michael Devin and drummer Brian Tichy. There's a wealth of exclusive, never-before-seen pictures of Coverdale and his band, taken by top US photographer Travis Shinn while Forevermore was being made in Tahoe. Elsewhere in the Fan Pack magazine, we talk to the musicians who knew Coverdale when he started out as a club singer in north-east England. We analyse the multi-platinum success of the band's legendary 1987 album and also review Whitesnake's entire back catalogue of albums. All this – and we list Coverdale's Top 20 Friskiest Lyrics. Slide it in, indeed! David Coverdale says: "After such a rewarding love affair with Classic Rock and its readers these last few years, we are honoured beyond words to be given our very own very special 'Snake edition. We hope you all enjoy the action-packed, high-octane hissstory [sic] and especially our new Forevermore album, and are inspired to come out and play with us this summer on the UK tour. We remain your obedient serpents…" Classic Rock's Whitesnake Fan Pack goes on sale on March 25. It can pre-ordered at www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk. The Forevermore track listing is as follows: Steal Your Heart Away; All Out Of Luck; Love Will Set You Free; Easier Said Than Done; Tell Me How; I Need You (Shine A Light); One Of These Days; Love And Treat Me Right; Dogs In The Street; Fare Thee Well; Whipping Boy Blues; My Evil Ways; Forevermore. The digital-only release of the first single/videoclip Love Will Set You Free will be on February 21. The physical album will be released via Frontiers. ArticleLink: www.classicrockmagazine.com/news/classic-rock-launches-whitesnake-fan-pack.   DEF LEPPARD HEADLINE DOWNLOAD 2011 + NEW BOOK + LIVE ALBUM: Press Release - Def Leppard, Britain's greatest arena rock band, are set to headline Download Festival 2011 on Friday, June 10 at Donington Park (UK) to kick off their world tour. The band are also set to release a brand new live album, Mirrorball, this summer featuring a mix of live Def Leppard classics, three brand new studio songs and a bonus DVD that contains energetic live performances and intimate backstage footage captured on the road. Also set for release this summer is Leppard's first coffee table book titled "Def Leppard - The Definitive Visual History", with exclusive photos by legendary rock photographer Ross Halfin. Def Leppard remain one of the world's biggest and most successful live acts. The band last played the UK in 2009 - headlining Download Festival that year after a hugely successful sold out UK Arena tour in 2008. 2011 will see Def Leppard headline Download Festival for the second time in three years! For ticket information please refer to www.downloadfestival.com. About Def Leppard: With more than 65 million albums sold worldwide and two prestigious Diamond Awards (Def Leppard are one of only five rock bands to have two consecutive 10 million plus selling albums in the U.S. -- the others are The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and Van Halen) to their credit, Def Leppard -Joe Elliott (vocals), Phil Collen (guitar), Rick "Sav" Savage (bass), Vivian Campbell (guitar) and Rick Allen (drums)- continue to be one of the most important forces in rock music. Over the course of their career, the band has produced a series of classic groundbreaking albums that set the bar for generations of music fans and artists alike. The group's spectacular live shows, filled with powerful melodic rock anthems, continue to sell out venues worldwide. Their epic live show and arsenal of hits have become synonymous with their name, leading Def Leppard to be heralded as an institution in both the music and touring industry. BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION OFFER LIVE EXCLUSIVES: Black Country Communion have joined forces with Planet Rock, the UK's leading classic rock radio station, to offer rock fans the opportunity to download two exclusive free "live" Black Country Communion tracks. The tracks, "Black Country" and "One Last Soul," were originally recorded live in front of a specially invited audience at John Henry's, London on 20th September 2010. The live recordings have been exclusively mixed for Planet Rock by BCC's producer, Kevin Shirley. To be eligible to download the live tracks, rock fans are being asked to become VIP members of Planet Rock's website by signing up to www.planetrock.com/vip. Once free membership has been activated, fans will have access to the free download, along with other VIP offers. Additionally, fans will also be able to order tickets for Black Country Communion's forthcoming UK summer concerts in July. BCC, featuring Jason Bonham (drums), Joe Bonamassa (guitar, vocals), Derek Sherinian (keyboards) and Glenn Hughes (bass, vocals), play the following UK summer dates - Leeds O2 Academy (July 26), Newcastle O2 Academy (July 27), Glasgow O2 Academy (July 29) and Manchester Academy (July 30). Ticket Hotline: 0871 230 1101, www.seetickets.com. Click here for more info about BCC's July 2011 UK concerts - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/blackcountrycommunion/tour.htm. CROWN OF THORN LIVE IN AUSTRALIA - MELBOURNE SHOW POSTPONED: Statement from the Crown Of Thorns Australian tour organizer; "Hi, Darren here from Crown of Thorns Oz Army. It's with deep sadness that i have to announce that the Crown of Thorns Australian show has been postponed until further notice due to unforeseen personal circumstances. I'd personally like to thank my fellow co-promoters Andrew at melodicrock.com, the guys at Vagabond Entertainment, as well as Jean and the band for trying all endeavours to make this show happen. Unfortunately due to circumstances beyond our control, it's not possible at this time. We are all hopeful that a show will be possible in the future. Regards, Darren." NEW AHORA ROCK PODCAST AVAILABLE: AhORa Rock #7 now online at www.rocktopia.net. The latest Podcast, hosted by the wonderful Pilar Sanchez, contains songs from the best recent melodic rock releases, including Whitesnake, Bonfire, Last Autumn's Dream, Robin Beck, Seventh Wonder, Legion, Heartland...with a few surprises here and there. The Podcast is free to access, and can be listened to online or downloaded. All six previous Podcasts are currently still available. www.rocktopia.co.uk. TOM CRUISE TO KILL ROCK OF AGES?: Straight out of the WTF box comes this revelation - Tom Cruise to star in the Rock Of Ages movie. I love the idea that this thing could be turned into a movie, but Tom Cruise??? This from Billboard: "Tom Cruise will soon be belting some classic rock staples as the star of "Rock of Ages," an upcoming film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical which showcases popular rock songs from the 70s and 80s. According to NME, the actor will star as Stacee Jaxx, an aging musician whose glory days are long past, in the movie version of the stage production. Among the tunes Cruise will perform include Bon Jovi's "Wanted Dead or Alive" and Styx's "Renegade." "I think we're going to see him every drop the rock'n'roll god," says director Adam Shankman, who also helmed 2007 movie musical "Hairspray." "He's pouring himself in this part in a way I've never had an actor do. It's pretty intense." Anne Hathaway is rumored to be vying for the role of Sherrie, who sings a duet of Foreigner's "I Want to Know What Love Is" with Cruise's character. Other performers rumored to take part in the adaptation, which is scheduled to begin filming in May, include Russell Brand, Taylor Swift and Alec Baldwin".

 

 

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

OFFICIAL BAND STATEMENT FROM THE OUTFIELD: Yet more sad news to pass along - The Outfield's John Spinks' cancer has returned, this time to his lungs: www.theoutfield.com/index.html. "It is with much regret that we announce that John Spinks has just recently had an unexpected relapse in his battle with cancer. After years of cancer free liver scans, John has been informed the cancer has returned, this time in his lungs. Treatment will begin next week, but John has made it clear he has no intention of stopping work on the new record. However, this will affect future tour plans until further notice. During this time, John would appreciate privacy and understanding for him and his family during the weeks ahead. The overwhelming and continued support from the fans and music industry is very much appreciated. There is not a single day that goes by that John takes that for granted. Thank you for your understanding." ~ Love and Peace – The Outfield. Please join me in praying for John's recovery and all those in the Outfield family. Updated: John has now posted his own message online: "Hi Everyone, Thank you all so much for your kind words of support wishing me well. Please know that this recent news was a total surprise to me and my family. Over the past five years I'd been totally focused on music thinking I'd beaten my illness. Had I not had a precautionary scan, I would have had no idea of my present condition, albeit I still look and feel fine? It would appear that the disease is at an early stage so I'm hoping the doctors can control things with modern day medicine. It's not in my nature to be negative so I'm just carrying on without letting this news distract me. Please know that I'm still working flat out to finish the new album. I rehearsed with Tony and Alan on Saturday and I spent most of Sunday finalizing drum mixes with Alan. The record is all but done and we hope to master the CD inside the next two weeks. It's been a long journey this past year or so as we've literally written and recorded a complete new set of songs from those we had when Alan came back on board. Hand on heart, we all believe this is our strongest album since 'Play Deep', and we hope you enjoy the new music. Thanks also for all the support you've given Brent to help raise the bands profile on all the social sites like Facebook during the past year. We are forever humbled at having such loyal fans! On behalf of the three of us, here's to a great 2011 summer!! For now, John."   JOURNEY BOOK CLARIFICATION: Writer Neil Danniels has issued this statement in relation to some online speculation about his upcoming Journey book. He says: "To clarify; I conducted my own exclusive and lengthy interviews with Herbie Herbert, Robert Fleischman and Jeff Scott Soto et al for Don't Stop Believin' – The Untold Story Of Journey. It will also have an album-by-album/track-by-track review of Journey's complete back catalogue and there is also a bonus chapter on Steve Perry's solo music for which I conducted exclusive interviews with former producers and personnel. The book will be published on 3rd May and is now available for preorder Neil Daniels, www.neildaniels.com." LIBERTY & JUSTICE EXPAND THEIR EP: Liberty N' Justice are teaming up with Roxx Records for a very special strictly Limited Edition Pressing of their recently released Chasing A Cure EP. Originally this EP was released as a digital only download and made available for a donation of $7.50 or more. Now and for a limited time you can own a CD copy of the 'Chasing A Cure EP' with a portion of the proceeds being donated to The Epilepsy Foundation. This new version of the EP will also be expanded to now become the 'Chasing A Cure LP' and will now include both some brand new and previously unreleased tracks! Liberty n' Justice are trying to create awareness of epilepsy and raise money for research to find a cure with this special release. This 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 even under going brain surgery. All of these artists donated their talent and time for this EP while the cover artwork was created and contributed by Rex Zachary and the CD layout and design will be contributed by Scott Waters. The line up on the original EP alone is enough for the hard rock fan to want to purchase this CD! But also check out just some of the tracks being included... Chasing a Cure EP - Say Uncle (Paul Shortino of Quiet Riot / Rough Cut, Ron Keel of Keel & Eddie Ojeda of Twisted Sister), Throwing Stones (Donnie Vie of Enuff Z Nuff & 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); "Bonus Tracks" (With more to come! Stay Tuned!) - Black Or White (Terry Ilous of XYZ, Alton Hood of D.O.C. & JK Northrup) Originally Recorded by Michael Jackson, Quicksand Jesus (Kelly Keeling of Baton Rouge) Originally Recorded by Skid Row, Snake Eat Snake 'Electric Version' (David Raymond Reeves & Don Webster of Neon Cross), Butterface (Mark Allen Lanoue of Biloxi & Joshua Perahia of Joshua), When Mullets Ruled The World (Philip Bardowell of Magdalen/Unruly Child/The Beach Boys), Ground Zero (Kelly Keeling of Baton Rouge and Kerry Livgreen of Kansas/Protokaw). This CD will be available for a short time in a very limited quantity of only 500 copies being pressed. If you would like to own one of these Limited Edition pressings pick one up now before they are gone. Once these are gone, they are gone and will not be reproduced! In addition the first 100 Pre-Orders will receive an exclusive Liberty N Justice guitar pick! Preorders have begun now and the CD's will be shipping in May! Visit www.roxxproductions.com for full details! Direct Order Link: roxxproductions.storenvy.com/products/63118-liberty-n-justice-chasing-a-cure-lp-limited-edition.   FIRST ANNOUNCED ACTS FOR SHIPROCKED 2011; MORE ACTS FORTHCOMING: Buckcherry, Hinder, Hellyeah!, Sevendust, In This Moment and many other of today's modern and retro rockers set sail towards the Mayan Riviera. ShipRocked 2011 Embarks For Five Days of Hard Hitting Music, Outrageous Crowds and Sun with Mexican Caribbean on the Horizon "ShipRocked 2011 will be five days of wall-to-wall music, giving fans the rare opportunity to listen to and hang out with rock stars on a luxury cruise ship. With a vast array of rock bands, there's enough music for whatever your mood desires from modern metal to old school hard rock sounds and many surprises in between" Ft Lauderdale, FL February 22, 2011 - The retro styling of LA's multi-platinum Buckcherry and their string of hard-rocking anthems and power ballads lead the way for this year's ShipRocked 2011. The Music and Life-style cruise sets sail November 14-19, 2011 heading for the tip of Mexico and its popular stretch of gorgeous Caribbean water known for scuba diving, shopping and bars aplenty. Buckcherry headlines along with fellow rockers Oklahoma's Hinder ("Lips Of An Angel"," Use Me"), metal titans Hellyeah! featuring members of Mudvayne and the legendary Pantera who bring their stampeding metal groove on-board and SR 2010 alum, Atlanta's Sevendust, brought back by the demand of prior cruisers - bringing an intensity only matched by 20-foot sea swells, helping solidify a four-pronged trident of rock and roll mayhem. ASK4 Entertainment's Alan Koenig promises "ShipRocked 2011 will be five days of wall-to-wall music, giving fans the rare opportunity to listen to and hang out with rock stars on a luxury cruise ship. With the confirmed artists onboard (and additional acts to be announced), there's enough music for whatever your heart rate can withstand" Main support comes from LA's In This Moment led by the vocal pyrotechnics of Maria Brink. And we're happy to have returning late-night favorites Lynam, as well as the inescapable Texas thunder of Broken Teeth led by the affable Jason McMaster, and new sensation Rival Sons and their brand of 70's style guitar groove. The setting is the MSC Poesia (Italy) one of the cruise industry's most acclaimed new super cruise ships. It all begins in Fort Lauderdale, FL, visiting the premier Mexican ports of Costa Maya and Cozumel. 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, the Teatro Carlo Felice, a beautiful, 3-level, Las Vegas-style theater, and additional stages for ShipRocked bands and passengers to enjoy all night long! Prices start at only $799 per person, based on 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 limited so early booking is encouraged to guarantee your cabin. General on-sale begins on Monday, February 28, 2011. Tickets for ShipRocked 2011 are being sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and are only available at www.GetShipRocked.com or by calling 1-888-438-9509. YES ANNOUNCE THE RITE OF SPRING TOUR TO KICK OFF EARLY MARCH: Yes – The band that has defined many a generation will embark on a mini-tour of very special intimate performances, encompassing their extraordinary musical catalog. This string of dates will kick-off early March for a select number of shows. These special intimate performances will give the Yes fan the ultimate experience of an up-close, in-your-face and personal view of the Maestros at work live! "We're tremendously excited to be working with Yes on this incredible tour through so many of our House of Blues and other theaters," states Michael Yerke (House of Blues Talent). "House of Blues is all about bringing music, artists and fans together in great venues. These concerts will be memorable and absolutely deliver on that promise." Being one of history's greatest, legendary, progressive rock bands, Yes will feature a lineup of guitarist Steve Howe, bassist Chris Squire, and drummer Alan White, as well as Oliver Wakeman (son of Rick Wakeman) on keyboards and lead singer Benoit David. Songs that have left a deep-rooted mark on rock 'n' roll history and a concert spectacular that has become synonymous with Yes, make this tour one that should not be missed. Yes's performance will include the hugely successful and indelible catalogue of music from hit albums such as Drama, Fragile, Close to the Edge and 90125. Classics such as "Roundabout," a seminal hit which consistently appears on "the best songs of all-time" lists, and the group's #1 hit "Owner of a Lonely Heart" are sure to be featured for an evening of music not to be missed. Yes's remarkable career has served to re-define the boundaries of rock for more than four decades, Yes has played the role as a dominant driving music force selling over 30 million albums, reaching platinum status multiple times worldwide. Their symphonic use of sound and innovative musical styles has made each of the group's player's a virtuoso in his own right. For additional ticket information please visit: www.yesworld.com. Yes Tour Dates (More To Be Added) March 2011: Sunday, March 6 House of Blues Houston, TX Monday, March 7 House of Blues Dallas, TX Wednesday, March 9 House of Blues New Orleans, LA Friday, March 11 Jannus Live Tampa, FL Saturday, March 12 WMMO Downtown Concert Series Orlando, FL Monday, March 14 Florida Theater Jacksonville, FL Tuesday, March 15 Sunrise Theatre Ft. Pierce, FL Friday, March 18 House of Blues Chicago, IL Saturday, March 19 House of Blues Chicago, IL Sunday, March 20 Orbit Room Grand Rapids, MI Tuesday, March 22 House of Blues Cleveland, OH Thursday, March 24 Durham PAC Durham, NC Friday, March 25 The Fillmore Charlotte, NC Saturday, March 26 Palace Theatre Louisville, KY Tuesday, March 29 Zeiterion PAC New Bedford, MA Wednesday, March 30 Penn's Peak Jim Thorpe, PA April 2011 Friday, April 1 Hampton Beach Casino Hampton Beach, NH Saturday, April 2 Tropicana Casino & Resort Atlantic City, NJ Monday, April 4 Warner Theatre Washington, DC CINDERELLA TOUR DATES: Cinderella have announced a number of 2011 25th Anniversary Confirmed Shows. More to come: April 14 Kewadin Casino Sault Sainte Marie, MI April 15 Shooting Star Casino Mahnomen, MN April 16 Medina Entertainment Center, Medina May 27 Coliseo Cubierto El Campin Bogata, Columbia May 28 El Teatro Flores Buenos Aires, Argentina May 29 Movistar Arena Santiago, Chile June 5 Windover Ride For A Cure Wencover, NV June 17 Moscow, Russia June 23 Shepherd's Bush Empire, UK July 2 Speaking Rock Entertainment Center El Paso, TX July 9 Hard Rock Biloxi, MS July 14 Chippewa Rock Festival Cadot, WI July 22 Half Way Jam Royalton, MN WebLink: www.cinderella.net. $10.00 SALE CONTINUES: The $10.00 CD Sale continues to run thru Friday - so take advantage of some massive discounts. I am happy to say that the Alias - Never Say Never album (Angelmilk Records, 2009) has been added to the list of $10.00 specials. Buy Now. SHOWCASE UPDATE: One more new CD Showcase today - Paul Young Chronicles (Escape Music, March 25 release.) Check it out.

 

 

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

SANTANA / JOURNEY LEGEND GREGG ROLIE RELEASES NEW SOLO EP: Austin, TX – 2/211/2011 – Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame inductee Gregg Rolie, co-founder of two multi-platinum super groups, Santana and Journey, and the voice of such timeless classics as Black Magic Woman and 'Evil Ways', has released new solo EP, 'Five Days'. A personal and intimate reworking of Santana and Journey classics as well as Gregg's own compositions through solo voice and piano, 'Five Days' was recorded in the living room of his Central Texas home on the piano given to him by his father in the early days of Santana. It's from my house to yours, says Gregg, whose new EP includes the songs Black Magic Woman, Anytime, Love Doesn't Live Here Anymore, If I Went Home, Trouble In Mind and Cool Little Mama. Gregg Rolie makes his first-ever solo appearance, Saturday March 5th at 9:00 pm on the grand piano in the lobby bar of The Four Seasons Hotel in Austin. This special performance is in celebration of his new solo EP, Five Days. Gregg, along with his special guest, blues guitarist Alan Haynes, will be playing selections from the new EP along with many old favorites. He'll share stores from his 40-plus year career and answer questions from the audience during the show. Afterwards, Gregg will be on hand for pictures and autographs. Admission is free, and the event is open to the public. Gregg Rolie is responsible for co-founding two phenomenally popular, multi-platinum super groups - Santana and Journey. In 1998, the world class keyboardist/vocalist/producer was inducted into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame as part of the original Santana band. Formed in San Francisco in 1969, the multi-cultural ensemble produced three groundbreaking hit albums which yielded several FM staples. You've heard Gregg's voice and keyboards on such classic Santana hits as "Black Magic Woman", "Evil Ways", "No One To Depend On", "Everybody's Everything" and "Oye Como Va". "There's one unique ability of the band," Gregg told music critic Ben Fong-Torres, "and that was that it created music that there is no name for... Santana's music is such a jell of different material that there just is no name for it." Departing after the pioneering jazz fusion offering 'Caravansarai' in 1972, both band members Gregg Rolie and Neal Schon went on to form quintessential 1980s hit-makers Journey. After co-writing and producing the band's first 7 albums, along with constant touring, Gregg decided to leave Journey once the hugely successful 1981 live double LP 'Captured' was issued. During the '80s Rolie wrote, produced and played on the Santana albums 'Shango' and 'Freedom', and released his debut, self-titled 1985 solo album and its 1987 follow-up 'Gringo', before co-founding the all-new Journey-esque rock group The Storm at the tail end of the decade. The Storm released two albums: 92's eponymous disc that yielded the #13 Billboard Hot 100 hit I've Got A Lot To Learn About Love and 96's 'Eye Of the Storm'. That same year, Rolie, along with five other original Santana members, formed Abraxas Pool, a spirited collaboration that resulted in the 1997 critically acclaimed album of the same name. Thirty-five years after Gregg and Carlos met in San Francisco, 2001 marked the release of Rolie's third solo album 'Roots'. The first-ever release on Bay-Area based Tower Records' new proprietary label 33rd Street, 'Roots' finds Gregg revisiting the incredible brew of sounds he helped conjure up in the late 60's. Rolie calls Roots' twelve original selections "Latin rock plus"; the instrumentation is Latin percussion, with organ, guitar, horns, and lots of great solo work and songwriting", adding that "I really wanted to go all the way back to my Santana roots". Formed in 2006, 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), Rocket Ritchotte on guitars, internationally acclaimed bassist Gary Brown, percussionist Elliot Toby Borrero and former Jean Luc Ponty keyboardist Wally Minko. Last year, Gregg 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. Gregg Rolie's 'Five Days' EP can be purchased at: www.bitvibe.com/products/gregg-rolie-five-days-cd. For more information visit the official website at www.greggrolie.com.   NEW JOHN WAITE VIDEO DEBUTS: The second official video from John Waite's latest studio album Rough & Tumble has been released. If You Ever Get Lonely was directed by Bob Burwell & Pete Cummings. From the fansite JW The Greatest comes these words from John about the video: "The video was shot the first week of December in Nashville. We flew in from California and Billy drove up from Alabama. It was cold but not freezing yet. The location is a store that sells everything from oversize Elvis statues to old L.P. records. The upstairs , where we shot the second performance was and empty store room. The budget was small and we all stood around freezing our asses off. Churches Chicken up the street had hot coffee but that was it. We filmed all day and into the night. Everyone had a laugh and I think it came out well. We had to be on our way to the airport by 6 a.m. the next day to play in Florida. These guys are troopers!" See the video here:   POWER QUEST ANNOUNCE FIRST EUROPEAN DATES: Power Quest is pleased to announce a number of European dates for 2011; the band will play Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg for the very first time in April. The venues will be confirmed shortly. Singer Chity Somapala is excited about the opportunity: "It's about time we met our massive fan base in the Netherlands and Belgium, and in Luxembourg I also hope to see some of our German fans! I am so looking forward to this, we're gonna kick some serious ass for sure on this tour – Blood Alliance is a killer album!" Steve Williams adds: "We had so much positive feedback on the last European tour with Angra and Firewind in France, Spain, Italy, Switzerland and Portugal, but unfortunately were not able to cover more countries. There are many elements that make international touring pretty difficult these days. So I am really glad we have now the chance to do that! See you on the road!" "Blood Alliance" was released in Japan on 26th January and has received tremendously positive feedback amongst the media and the fans. Europe and the US will be seeing the album towards end of March. Pre-ordering is available at online stores or directly from Napalm Records: www.napalmrecords.com/product_info.php?products_id=13372. For a preview, Power Quest released a full album teaser, which can be found here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIQQfnQ4_RI. Blood Alliance tour schedule: Festivals • March 19th - Hammerfest III, Prestatyn, Noth Wales • May 29th - June 8th - Hard Rock Hell Roadtrip, Ibiza • August 13th - Bloodstock Open Air, Derby, UK PQ Headline shows - Blood Alliance Tour 2011 • Apr 15th - De Kade (Netherlands) - tbc • Apr 16th - Genk (Belgium) - GC Drieschaar • Apr 17th - Luxembourg – tbc PQ Headline shows - Blood Alliance Tour 2011 • May 5th - London - Purple Turtle • May 6th - Derby - Redemption Club • May 7th - Manchester - Satan's Hollow • May 8th - Glasgow - Classic Grand Further information on: www.myspace.com/powerquest / www.power-quest.co.uk / www.napalmrecords.com. JOEY BELLADONNA TAKES SOLO BAND ON THE ROAD: In between laying down vocals for the new Anthrax record and touring this spring and summer with Anthrax; Joey Belladonna will keep busy in his downtime by hitting the road with his solo band Belladonna to play some shows across the USA and Finland. The dates are: 03/10/11 The Met Providence, RI 03/11/11 Toads Place New Haven, CT 03/17/11 Carriage House Louisville, OH 03/18/11 Chicago City Limits Schaumberg, IL 03/19/11 The Token Lounge Westland, MI 03/20/11 The Warehouse Valparasio, OH 03/26/11 Cube Restaurant Newark, DE 03/31/11 The Palladium Worcester, MA 04/08/11 Quixotes Denver, CO 04/09/11 The Venue Casper, WY 06/02/11 The Rock House Indianapolis, IN 06/03/11 The Basement Columbus, OH 06/04/11 McGuffy's House Of Rock Dayton, OH 06/09/11 Virgin Oil Club Helsinki, Finland 06/10/11 Sauna Open Air Festival Tempere, Finland 06/11/11 Club Teatria Oulu, Finland 06/17/11 Martini Ranch Scottsdale, AZ 06/22/11 The Nutty Irishman Farmingdale, NY 06/23/11 Bourbon Street Baltimore, MD 06/24/11 Havana's New Hope, PA 06/25/11 Livewire Night Club Mentor, OH Also, hitting the streets on March 29 via Eagle Rock Entertainment is an all star tribute to Frank Sinatra called SIN-atra where Joey covers the song Strangers In The Night. www.joeybelladonna.com / www.twitter.com/jbelladonna. GEOFF TATE TALKS QUEENSRYCHE: Greek-based Rockpages Web Magazine had the chance to talk backstage with Geoff Tate from Queensryche at a band's recent show. Here's an excerpt where Tate speaks about the possibility of doing an one-off show with Queensryche's original guitarist Chris DeGarmo: Rockpages.gr: Now that you have Parker in the band… I remember, at some point, you saying "I have a kick-ass band"! Do you ever take the time to … well, not compare… but consider the "old" band and the "new" one? Geoff Tate: No… Rockpages.gr : I mean, there's no point, but do you ever do that? Geoff Tate: No, not really… You mean with Chris (DeGarmo) in the band? Rockpages.gr : Even with Mike (Stone)… Geoff Tate: Aaah… Not really… no… You know… I'm still friends with Stone… I'm still friends with Chris… I'm still friends with Kelly Gray. It's just, musically, sometimes things don't quite work out. People get involved with different projects… We always said that after Chris left we wouldn't ever had a permanent second guitarist. And that seems to be working really well for us… We all like that… Collaborate with different people… it kinda keeps things fresh for us. Rockpages.gr : At some point I was wondering if a night off with Chris would be an idea. Not a good idea necessarily… Just an idea… Geoff Tate: I doubt it that Chris would get on stage again… really… He's not into that… He hadn't picked up a guitar in a couple of years… Read the full interview here: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=5231&type=1&lang=EN. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: Two new CD Showcases online now - Darkwater (Ulterium Records, out now) and Malison Rogue (Inner Wound, March 25 release). Check them out. More to come shortly!

 

 

Monday, February 21, 2011

JOURNEY SET TO DELIVER A MASTERFUL ECLIPSE MAY 2011: Journey's new album Eclipse is set to deliver a heavier and darker tone and is confirmed for release in North America May 24 via WalMart outlets. A worldwide release will follow via Frontiers Records on or close to that exact date. The album features 12 tracks, one of which is an instrumental. The rest is all new material written over the last 18 months by guitarist Neal Schon and keyboardist Jonathan Cain, with help from frontman Arnel Pineda. The album was produced and record by Kevin Shirley and mixed by David Kalmusky. Rumors suggest it is quite a lengthy record, with one source stating the album was: "more rock...longer songs..." Comments from the band have begun to appear, with Neal Schon quoted by VH1 as saying: "The record, it's been done for a while. It sounds amazing. I'm in love with the record, which I haven't said for a long time. I was very involved with this record. Jon Cain and I wrote the whole thing with a little help from Arnel. You know, I really fought for this record to be the way it is. It's a rock record. It's built for the places we're about to play. We're playing a lot of big shows – South America and Europe – and we're going to be touring the whole world on and off for two years. So with the addition of Arnel, we've become more of an international band which has been really great. We busted all kinds of markets wide open. So I wrote for what I felt we were missing in our show. We've got a lot of hits to play and we have to play those but there's plenty of time to do some new stuff too so we're gonna mix it up." Jonathan Cain last week tweeted: "Journey rehearsals ended today--band sounds great! New songs kick butt--lookin forward to rockin Vegas." Cain also talked to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, describing the album as: "a concept record with some spiritual themes to it. Pretty tough, hard-hitting stuff. This is Journey with big combat boots on. And helmet and a rifle. [Lyrics] searching for soulfulness and enlightenment and love and all the stuff that Journey's about. But the album also has a larger dynamic sweep with some darker stuff in there. We just felt like it was time to send a message to the world about how we feel about life in general," concluding with stating that the album incorporates Hindu principles of Tantra, "the belief that life is kind of a weave, a circle of energy, a life force that's woven with the universe in all of us. We dove deep into it. [The album is] ...one of those headphone records." Fans attending this weeks show in Vegas will get an exclusive preview of 3 new songs from the album. Stay tuned for more. FIREFEST 2010 FRIDAY 21st OCTOBER: VENUE CHANGE: The Firefest Friday night show featuring Jimi Jamison, Terry Brock and Houston has now been moved to the same venue as the other two days; the main room at Rock City in Nottingham. It was only earlier this week that we'd announced that the first day of our three day marathon at Trent University had sold out, prompting calls from people who didn't have tickets to move the show to a bigger venue. However, this decision was taken out of our hands later in the week when we were told by the people at Trent Uni that plans were afoot to demolish the building in summer to make way for a new Students Union building, one that unfortunately wouldn't be finished in time for the show. Thankfully Dave Herron and the good people at Rock City have made their main room available subject to the usual 10pm curfew so that it doesn't affect their usual activities, which of course necessitates an earlier start than was previously planned. This means that not only have Rock City saved us the almost impossible task of finding a suitable venue in the centre of Nottingham, but also that we now have several hundred more £25 tickets available for those that missed out. Details of the new door opening and stage times will be published when available. Early bird weekend tickets available for one more week - The demand for early bird tickets for Saturday and Sunday 22nd & 23rd October has far outstripped that of previous years, the £99 weekend tickets selling way over the 300 that we intended to let go at the special price. With less than four weeks gone since the initial Firefest announcement and the weekend almost 50% sold, we're reluctant to take away the special offer so soon, so we'll be keeping the offer available for one more week only, the last day being Saturday 26th February. After this date the tickets will revert to £55 per day. Check out www.thefirefest.com for details. PAUL RODGERS UK SOLO TOUR APRIL 2011: Paul Rodgers is very pleased to announce that Jason Bonham, drummer from Black Country Communion will be joining him on tour, "Jason played with Joe Perry and myself in LA recently and was so hot that I asked him to join us for the UK tour." ...Paul Rodgers Also, in the band, the familiar faces of Howard Leese (guitar), Lynn Sorenson (bass) plus some special guests, including Joe Perry at the Royal Albert Hall, in London. The singer, songwriter will be performing new songs from his up and coming solo CD, making it 31 album/CD releases since 1968, plus hits from his expansive back catalogue. "Developing the set-list is always a bit of a balancing act but in the UK it will be Free heavy for the fans." Supporting Rodgers are very special guests Joe Elliott's Down 'N' Outz. Fronted by Joe Elliott of Def Leppard and backed by The Quireboys, Down 'N' Outz will be an evening of music by Mott The Hoople and it collective works. The band's single 'Overnight Angels' is currently #1 in the US Classic Rock Charts (Feb 2011). This is the second single to be taken off Down 'N' Outz debut album, My Re-Generation, released in summer 2010, to critical acclaim, through Mailboat Records. Tickets are priced at £34.50, in advance, regionally, and £32.50 / £37.50 / £40.00 / £50.00 in London (subject to booking fee) and are available from www.livenation.co.uk / www.paulrodgers.com. 15th April - Blackpool Opera House 16th April - Sheffield City Hall 18th April - Newcastle Arena 19th April - Glasgow Clyde Auditorium 21st April - O2 Apollo Manchester 22nd April - Nottingham Royal Centre 24th April - Bournemouth BIC 25th April - Southend Cliffs Pavilion 27th April - London Royal Albert Hall 28th April - Birmingham NIA DOOGIE WHITE JOINS DEMONS EYE FOR NEW ALBUM THE STRANGER WITHIN: Vocalist Doogie White, the former singer of Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow and Yngwie Malmsteen, is firmly convinced that "The Stranger Within is a fantastic sounding album with brilliant songs!" Above all Deep Purple fans and Rainbow fans of the Dio-era will be really delighted with this hard rock album consisting of 12 songs lasting 66 minutes – and this album contains everything which enthralls fans of classic hard rock bands: powerful vocals rich in variety as well as brilliant and sometimes spaced-out solos of the guitar and the organ. The new Demon's Eye album The Stranger Within will be released on the 18th of March, 2011 in record stores in most European countries and will also be available on iTunes and Amazon. But watch out! Those of you who order the CD at the Demon's Eye Online-Shop will receive the original autographs of Doogie White & Co. as a free supplement! Furthermore, you can order a limited fan package at the online shop with CD, original autographs, T shirt and sticker - but only while stocks last, as this fan package is a very limited edition! All orders will be delivered a few days before the CD's official date of release! The CD with the original autographs as well as the fan package is available only here in the Demon's Eye-Shop but not on the market! The Stranger Within" Tracklisting: The Unknown Stranger 6:39 Sins Of The Father 4:38 The Best Of Times 4:18 Ain't Nothing Better 4:10 Evil Comes This Way 5:44 Heaven Again 6:46 A Foolish Man 5:37 Midnight In Heaven Or Hell 4:02 Far Over The Rainbow 9:21 Brand New Life 5:35 Le Vent Lament 2:04 Bonus Track: The Best Of Times (Extended Version) 7:37 Total Time 66:33. WebLink: www.demonseye.com. NEW IRON MAIDEN STUDIO BOOK DUE: This May, UK-based John Blake Publishing will release 'Iron Maiden: in the Studio' by music biographer Jake Brown (Motorhead, Heart, Rick Rubin, Tracii Guns). Spanning the band's entire 30 year catalog, the writing and recording of such classic albums as 'Number of the Beast', 'Piece of Mind', 'Brave New World' and 'The Final Frontier,' and hits as 2 Minutes to Midnight, Wasted Years, Can I Play with Madnesss, Bring Your Daughter to the Slaughter, The Wicker Man, The Trooper, Run to the Hills, Powerslave, and Hallowed Be Thy Name among countless others is chronicled. The book is currently available for pre-order at www.amazon.co.uk/Iron-Maiden-Studio-Jake-Brown.

 

 

Friday, February 18, 2011

MELODIC ROCK RECORDS SALE: It's SALE TIME at MelodicRock.com and MelodicRockRecords. For one week only, you can get ALL in-print MelodicRock Records releases and all MRCD titles (including the recent 2CD set, MRCD7 - Forces Of Dark & Light) for just $10.00 each + shipping. The more you buy the more you save on shipping also. This is for one week - thru Friday of next week. Click on the banner to hit the MRR Store.   I am calling for expressions of interest in MRCD8 - the next compilation for MelodicRock.com, due out in May. A number of cool tracks have already been lined up for this single disc set, but if any artists would like to participate in the release, please drop me a line ASAP. EDEN'S CURSE DEBUT NEW DIGITAL SINGLE: AFM Records have released the brand new digital download single No Holy Man, from Multinational Melodic Metallers Eden's Curse, featuring Dream Theater vocalist James LaBrie. No Holy Man is the first track to be released from the groups forthcoming third studio album Trinity, which will hit the stores on the 18th March. Duetting with Eden's Curse frontman Michael Eden on this epic anthem, LaBrie enthused "In 2010 I was fortunate to discover Eden's Curse. I absolutely love this band. Great players and people and they deserve nothing but huge success! They belong with the best of today's music. Trust me, you're going to love this from beginning to end." The band have also released a 30 second snippet from the up and coming promo video for No Holy Man, which will be released in full on February 25. The snippet can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LvykDkxXPc. No Holy Man is now available on iTunes, Amazon, Play, Musicload and all major digital download retailers. Retail Links: iTunes TBA; Amazon: www.amazon.com/No-Holy-Man; Play: www.play.com; Musicload: www.musicload.de.   LATEST FRONTIERS RECORDS PROMO: The latest promo spot for Frontiers Records and their February releases is online now:   BLOTZER VS PEARCY: As posted by Ratt drummer Bobby Blotzer on his Facebook page. No further explanation necessary! I'm sure we will hear a retort shortly... - "Congrats to sullivan biggs agency and the stephen pearcy solo band adventure on the first solo show for his HUGE forthcoming 2011 tour, and the lucky 52 people that got to hear Ratt's music butchered. Poor promoter! And asking for a rider and his two packs of smokes on top of the monster drawing power ? LOL, priceless." - "All will be told in my new book. I'll tell you this though, im sick of the lies and deception from the whole lot of them in this band. And guess what, who owns the name? two right now..... - "Look guys, yes im obviously really burnt and pissed here, yes. But, I want ratt to be ratt. with all of us. Im tired of rolling a snowball up hill to build the snowman. Im also not doing this as a promo for this new book . happens to be falling at the same time. Its all about the love of playing for you guys year in year out, and having a great job, with job security. every single year im re building this band." UK AOR FANS - MONSTER GIGS: The following dates have been announced for a package event in the UK featuring: Houston/Serpentine and Miss Behaviour. The dates are: Friday April 29th - Yardbirds, Grimsby Saturday April 30th - The Rig, Nottingham Sunday May 1st - ABC2, Glasgow Monday May 2nd - Club WN1 Formerly Maximes, Wigan Tuesday May 3rd - Academy, Bristol Wednesday May 4th - Islington Academy, London Tickets for the Wigan show are now available from Ticketline. Tickets for the other venues will be available in the next couple of days from the usual outlets. MELODIC BRIEFS: New video for The Poodles is online now at: tv.expressen.se/noje/1.2333432/the-poodles-cuts-like-a-knife. New Joey Tempest interview at: www.rockgig.co.uk. Sweden Rock Festival has added Accept and Lee Arron to it's already impressive line-up. JOE ELLIOTT TALKS GARY MOORE: Def Leppard frontman Joe Elliott reminisced about the late, great Gary Moore, who passed away at age 58 last weekend. Elliott was asked a few questions about the Thin Lizzy guitarist and solo musician during a recent round of radio interviews, according to a Def Leppard fan site. "Well he's definitely up at the top isn't he?," Elliott said. "In fairness I think that he was probably wrongly accused of being one of these speed merchant guitarists because he could play fast. But the thing about Gary was that he actually came from the blues. Whereas a lot of the '80s guitarists just ripped Eddie Van Halen off." The Def Leppard singer also talked about the time Moore opened for his band in the '80s. "Funnily enough, he took over from Jon Butcher Axis on our Pyromania tour about halfway through it and was special guest to ourselves and Krokus," Elliott remembered. "He had Ian Paice from Deep Purple on drums. I remember like [Leppard drummer] Rick Allen was just, couldn't – he was beside himself. He was 16 years old or 17/18 years old and his hero, his drumming hero, was third on the bill to us, you know? We were almost apologizing for it, you know? We knew Gary pretty well and he was a lovely chap and it's such a shame and such a waste." ArticleLink: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/gary-moore-0211-2011. ATTICA RAGE SIGN TO ROCKSECTOR RECORDS FOR THE RELEASE OF ROAD DOG: We're extremely happy to announce that Attica Rage have signed to Rocksector Records for the release of their Road Dog album due in April. Says Mark Appleton of Rocksector.... "We see this as a significant triumph for the label as we know we faced serious competition for the opportunity to sign the band. The combination of Attica Rage with Rocksector is natural but we also know that when people listen to the amazing music which is on the album, it'll be fully appreciated what great things this partnership is going to achieve". The album contains 14 songs and was recorded in Glasgow with local producer roddymaccaudio and mastered at Masterdisk, New York (Metallica, Ozzy Osbourne, Nirvana, Pearl Jam) by Michael Tucci (Steve Albini, John Agnello). The album is a diverse collection of classic, hard rock grooves, blistering metal riffs, powerful ballads, blues-infused biker rock plus a few extra surprises along the way and we can't wait for you to hear the depth & quality of what's been produced. "Road Dog" will be launched with an almighty bang at the forthcoming Hammerfest III festival in Prestatyn, North Wales on 18-20th March. Special events are being planned for over the weekend including an official launch party, album signing session as well as a full-force, live showcase performance that is guaranteed to raise the roof and rattle the bones! We guarantee this will be the hottest Attica Rage show that fans old & new have ever seen. To celebrate the album launch Attica Rage are giving away 3 sets of 4-Day Pass tickets to Hammerfest! Details of the competition to win these passes can be found at the band's blog: www.myspace.com/atticarage. More news coming very soon……..official release dates, track listing & album artwork, special gig & festival announcements, & more. MRX UPDATE: MRX has ben updated with the following new titles: - Judas Priest - Live Palladium NYC, 81 (Great soundboard) - Anders Eriksson - Within Reach (Swedish AOR) - Raw Trixx - Rawness (Rare indie, Sleaze hard rock) MRX Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, February 17, 2011

NIGHT RANGER CONTINUE IN THE STUDIO: Night Ranger are busy in the studio working on a follow-up to 2007's Hole In The Sun. The style was described to me by frontman Jack Blades as "more classic sounding", which I am sure will please all fans of the band - new or old. The band line-up is the same one that has been touring together since 2008 - Jack Blades, Kelly Keagy, Brad Gillis, Joel Hoekstra and Christian Cullen. It is their first time in the studio together. A picture of Brad Gillis was tweeted earlier today by Kelly - "laying down guitars on the new Night Ranger cd" (see below). A release is expected mid-year.   In related news the band has announced further tour dates. There are many more to be added and a big announcement about US plans coming. Night Ranger's invading Europe this June with seven new dates added to Journey's 2011 European Tour including many dates with rock heavyweights Foreigner and Kansas for the Rock the Nation Festival and Spirit of Rock Festival! 6/17 Parkbuehne (Hannover, GER)** 6/18 Richard-Hirschmann Eisstadion (Esslingen, GER)** 6/19 Spirit of Rock Festival (Winterthur, SWI) w/ Journey, Foreigner & Kansas 6/21 Fiera Arena (Milan, ITA) w/ Journey & Foreigner 6/22 Schwabenhalle (Augsburg, GER)** 6/25 Loreley Freilichtbuhne (St. Goarhausen, GER)** 6/26 Ferropolis 'Stadt Aus Eisen' (Grafenhainichen, GER)** ** Rock the Nation Festival w/ Journey, Foreigner & Kansas. Puerto Rico & Mexico w/ Journey 4/12 Auditorio Nacional w/ Journey (Mexico, DF) 4/13 Arena Monterrey w/ Journey (Monterrey, NL) 4/16 Coliseo de Puerto Rico w/ Journey (Hato Rey, PR) FIREFEST UPDATE : FRIDAY TICKETS SOLD OUT: Due to unprecedented demand this year the Firefest show on Friday 21st October at Trent University, Nottingham, featuring Jimi Jamison, Terry Brock and Houston, has now SOLD OUT already. We've approached the venue with regard to removing all non-essential equipment from the main room in an effort to increase the capacity by a few more, but until we come to an agreement there will be no more tickets on sale. If we find ourselves in a position where we're able to increase the capacity from the present 600 we'll inform you immediately through www.thefirefest.com, www.rocktopia.co.uk, and through Facebook of the number of extra tickets we're allowed to sell. Tickets for Saturday and Sunday at Rock City continue to sell extremely well and we're extremely grateful for your continued support. ~ The Firefest Team. BULLET – HIGHWAY PIRATES CHARTS IN SWEDEN: Straight to position 3 in the Swedish sales chart! On February 4th Bullet released their new album Highway Pirates. The album has been recieved to nothing but praise in the media, and this week the record buyers also showed their appreciation for Swedens most successful heavy metal act. On February 5th a huge releaseparty was held in their hometown Växjö. The party was totally sold out with almost 1000 people attending, and the band delivered a classic rock show, finishing off with singer Hell Hofer sawing off the arm of a guy playing keyboards. In true Bullet spirit, specially made Bullet beer and hot dogs were served. The overwhelming response from the media, the killer chart position, and the atmosphere on the release party held on the countryside to a countryside audience all makes it clear that Bullet has become kind of an institute – there's something in Bullet's music for everyone. At the moment there seems to be nothing stopping Bullet from becoming number one in the heavy metal scene. Album of the month award and Jury winner in Sweden Rock Magazine, album of the month award and Richterskala winner in Germany's Rock Hard all point to one thing – Bullet is now getting the pay off from all the hard work they've put into creating music over the years. The band is currently on a Scandinavian tour, where they aim to show also who's number one on stage. In April they head off on a 20 date European tour with shows in Germany, Holland, England, Poland, Austria, Switzerland and Belgium (tour dates below). "Highway Pirates" is Bullet's third album, and the follow-up to "Heading For The Top" (2006) and "Bite The Bullet" (2008). The album is mixed by Tobias Lindell, who has worked with bands like Europe, Mustasch and Hardcore Superstar. Bullet hit it big in 2008 with the album "Bite The Bullet" which climbed to position 3 in the Swedish charts which led to Bullet being one of the most booked bands in Sweden the following year. The success culminated when they made an acclaimed performance as support act to AC/DC at a sold out Ullevi Stadium in Gothenburg, Sweden.

 

 

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

VETERAN HARD ROCKERS KING KOBRA ARE BACK WITH A VENOMOUS NEW ALBUM: Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of the Self-Titled come back album from King Kobra on April 15 in Europe and May 5 in North America. Formed in 1984 by legendary drummer Carmine Appice (Vanilla Fudge, Rod Stewart, Ozzy Osbourne), Los Angeles heavy metal outfit King Kobra recorded two critically acclaimed albums for Capitol Records – the 1985 release 'Ready to Strike' and 1986's 'Thrill of a Lifetime'. Along with Carmine, the band featured four relatively unknown musicians at the time – David Michael-Philips and Mick Sweda on guitar, Johnny Rod on bass and Mark Free on lead vocals. King Kobra toured the U.S., Canada, Europe and Mexico playing shows with Kiss, Iron Maiden, Quiet Riot, Ted Nugent, Queensryche and Autograph. The band was featured regularly on MTV and performed the theme song for the #1 1986 motion picture "Iron Eagle". After disbanding in 1988, each member continued his career in other successful major-label groups - Carmine to Blue Murder (Geffen), Mark Free to Unruly Child (Interscope), Mick Sweda to the BulletBoys (Warner Bros.), Johnny Rod to W.A.S.P. (Capitol/EMI) and David Michael-Philips to Lizzy Borden (Metal Blade). The year 2010 saw the band reunite the original classic '85 lineup, replacing original singer Mark Free (now Marcie Free) with veteran lead vocalist Paul Shortino (Rough Cutt, Quiet Riot). "This album captures all the great points we had in the 80's, but better" says Carmine Appice "The music is more traditional King Kobra music. Great lyrics, kick ass songs with cool hooks and  really good playing. A really great hard rock/metal record with lots of energy". David Michael-Phillips adds "It truly is an all-star album. Paul Shortino is amazing! I can honestly say he is one of the best vocalists in the business along with being one of the nicest and most generous people I have ever met". The band is planning to get on some targeted American and European summer festivals this year. Watch out: King Kobra is smokin' hot, back stronger than ever and "Ready to Strike" once again! The new album "King Kobra" will include the following tracks: Rock This House, Turn Up The Good (Times), Live Forever, Tear Down The Walls, This Is How We Roll, Midnight Woman, We Got A Fever, Tope Of The World, You Make It Easy, Cryin' Turns To Rain, Screamin' For More, Fade Away. WebLinks: www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords / www.myspace.com/officialkingkobra.   xx CROWN OF THORNS - AUSSIE SHOW - TICKETS ON SALE NOW: For the first time in Australia, MelodicRock.com, Vagabond Entertainment and Crown of Thorns Oz Army presents Crown of Thorns LIVE! Sunday May 15 at Melbourne's The Corner Hotel. TICKETS ON SALE NOW VIA - www.cornerhotel.com. AUSSIE MELODIC ROCK FANS - PLEASE SUPPORT THIS SHOW IF YOU WANT TO SEE MORE LIKE IT. Fronted by Jean Beauvoir, co-writer for Kiss, The Ramones, and countless other bands and musicians, Crown of Thorns are about real Joining Crown of Thorns as a special guest will be Australian melodic rock sensations White Widdow, who have released their debut album through AOR Heaven in Europe. Crown Of Thorns: Sunday May 15, The Corner Hotel Pre-sale Ticket Price: $45 (+$3 booking fee) Door on the night: $50 (if available) Doors open: 8.00 Tickets On Sale: Mon 14 Feb   MAGNUM BONUS TRACK ONLINE - SIGNING SESSION IN GERMANY: After the fantastic chart entries in Europe (Germany #19, Sweden #46, UK #55, Switzerland #56) of the latest studio album The Visitation Magnum are about to release the bonus track of the limited Digipack edition online: "Eyes Like Fire" Online: www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvNeyFITpJ4. The band will do a signing session in Germany: Where: Saturn, Würzburger Str. 6, 90762 Fürth, Germany, fon.: +49-911 97595-0 Day: March 16th, 2011 Time: 05.30 pm - 06.30 pm CET Full European tour dates at: www.magnumonline.co.uk / www.spv.de. THUNDER BACK FOR A ONE-OFF UK SHOW: News from Thunder HQ in the UK: "Yes people, it's true. I've been informed today that the ex members of Thunder have agreed to reunite after almost 2 years apart, for a one off show at High Voltage Festival, at Victoria Park London on Sunday July 24th. I've been asked to point out that this does not mean they're getting back together, and there are no plans to record or release any new material. In fact Luke and Chris have asked me to stress that whilst they're both chuffed to be doing a Thunder show, their commitment to The Union and the new album release (later this year) is undiminished, and the writing is going really well. All ex-Thunder band members' other activities will remain unchanged, and Harry is about to go on tour with Magnum, so this really is a one off. Danny says: "I can't lie, I've missed singing and being in the band more than I thought I would over the past couple of years, so when High Voltage called last week, I was keen to explore it, as it was great last year. We're still releasing the new "Rough & Ready" live album, but there's no plan to do any other recording going forwards. It will be great to play again, and we're really excited". Luke says: "I thoroughly enjoyed playing at the inaugural High Voltage last year with The Union so I'm really looking forward to getting together with the rest of the boys for a one-off reunion (no pun intended). Fortunately it fitted in nicely with everything else we're doing so in the end it was difficult to say no. I'm sure we'll have a lot of fun". Ben says: "We're all busy with other things, so it took a bit of discussion to ensure there were no clashes, but we got it sorted. I only live down the road, and I can't think of a better way to spend a sunny Sunday evening, so happy days!" This is great news, I will of course be there, as I hope will you, but there is no more information, so please don't bombard me for info on a new studio album, tour etc. Full festival and line up details can be found at: www.highvoltagefestival.com / www.thunderonline.com. As mentioned a little while ago, here are some details on the new Thunder release - Live - Rough & Ready Release Date: 01/03/2011. Available: Online only at www.thunderonline.com and www.thunderonline-shop.co.uk / Format: 4 x CD (Double Gatefold Digipack). It's 2 shows, both recorded in 2005, during different legs of the "The Magnificent Seventh" Tour, and features some songs seldom played, as well as some of the usual Thunder favourites. It's been a while in the planning and execution, but it's finally here, or will be next week, when we'll officially launch it, along with the full details including tracklisting, album artwork etc." ROBIN BECK ALBUM ON SALE NOW: News from singer Robin Beck: "Just a heads up... The new CD The Great Escape is officially out now and ready to be scooped up at iTunes and at www.robinbeckrocks.com. Check it out as we are running out again! The music lottery is still on so get in on it while you can. Speak to you soon.."   VINNY BURNS UPDATE FOR 2011: News from guitarist Vinny Burns (via email to myself): "My plans this year are to do my solo stuff and start another Burns Blue. Last year was taken up with recording The Beautiful Sleazy album at my studio The Viper Room. Very proud how it has all turned out. It was the first complete album to be done here from all the tracking to the mix." And regarding news of involvement in Dare: "I am not involved at all with the re-recording of Calm Before The Storm. That is Darren and Richie. We will probably get out and do a few festivals with Dare. Still loving the gigs. We have a great time." HELP A MELODIC ROCKER IN NEED: Tor Talle is now in the finals of a Norwegian's competition to win recording equipment for his studio. This is very important to musicians like Tor who would be able to enhance their home studio beyond belief with such an opportunity - so please be so kind and vote for Tor! Follow this link and vote: musikkweb.no/func/poll_img.php?id=6. Press "Tor" and "Stem". DD RAND SIGNS TO DARK STAR RECORDS: We are pleased to announce that DD Rand, original lead guitarist from the 80s Hard Rock/Metal band Ravage out of Chicago has inked a deal with Dark Star Records. DD Rand's guitar style mixes bone crunching guitar rifts with screaming leads. His songs are loaded with catchy choruses influenced by classic 80's rock but with a modern high caliber production level. DD Rand currently has deals with Shrapnel and Retrospect Records. And now with his latest digital release "Venom in Denim" out on Dark Star Records, DD Rand will once again take the world by storm. The New Album "Venom in Denim" is now available on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/album/venom-in-denim/id418030795. Musicians on the album include: DD Rand - lead guitar/lead vocals, Paul Pike - Bass, Matt Udall - Bass, Tim Strunk - Bass, Larry Cornwall - lead vocals/drums, Dave Helzer - Drums, Henry Hartman - Drums, Doug Herschbach - Drums. For more info on DD Rand Go To: www.reverbnation.com/dougtheinerddrand / www.facebook.com/pages/DD-Rand/241127308705.   INTRODUCING TOXIN: Coallier Entertainment's Toxin featuring 16 year old Jason Kloos on lead vocals has just released their new video for the single "Times of our Lives." Toxin is the youngest band to ever grace the stage of Germany's Bang Your Head Festival and has played numerous support dates for Bret Michaels. The band members ages range from 16-19 years and have labels raising an eyebrow at some of their accomplishments including placing 1st in Bon Jovi's Ourstage Contest out of close to 1000 other bands! Toxin has also played some of the larger Rock festivals including Rock n America(Oklahoma) and The Midwest Rockfest (Kansas) opening for the legendary Twisted Sister. For more information on Toxin check out their website at www.toxinrocks.com. We hope you consider adding Toxin's new video to the Melodic Rock website. We are big fans! Please see video link below: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xn_pPlgkWmQ&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL.

 

 

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

WATCH OUT, THE POODLES RELEASE THEIR NEW ALBUM "PERFORMOCRACY": Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of the highly anticipated fourth album from The Poodles entitled Performocracy on April 15th in Europe and May 5th in North America. The title of the album is a combination of the words "Performance" and "Democracy", meaning "The power of Performance" or "Rule by Performance". The album was again produced by Mats Valentin, but this time Tobias Lindell (Europe, Mustasch) mixed the 12 outstanding tracks that make up the CD. "I think we have followed through on what we started with the last album, "Clash of the Elements", explains singer Jakob Samuel. "Besides continuing to work with producer extraordinaire, Mats Valentin, we took a step further with some of the material that was hinted at on "Clash of the Elements". On "Performocracy" there is a more epic and darker character to some of the songs that we wanted to explore in more detail. Having said this, we have definitely stayed with a lot of the signature melodic elements that are trademark of the band". The first single off "Performocracy" is "Cuts Like A Knife", which promises to entice both Poodles fans and anyone with a passion for rock n' roll. The song will impact at radio on February 21st and the single will be released digitally only on March 3rd. A video produced by Steve Ravic, who also shot and produced the band's landmark DVD release "In the Flesh", will accompany the release of the first single. After the gold and platinum records that the band was able to achieve in their home country Sweden, now it is time for them to take on the world! "One important aspect of having a few releases in the bag is that you know more what you want as a band" adds bassist Pontus Egberg. "Someone once said that "if you want to dream big, you have to dream in great detail". To us this means that we take all the knowledge and experience that we have acquired from our previous efforts and use that to plan ahead and make our dreams bigger." As the album title suggests, performing songs live is the reason for what The Poodles are as a band. A full European tour is planned for the early fall of 2011 and in conjunction to this The Poodles will also head to South America and Japan to support the release of "Performocracy". For the summer of 2011 The Poodles will take part to festivals and shows with a focus on Sweden. Stay updated following The Poodles on poodles.se or on facebook.com/thepoodles. "Performocracy" will include the following tracks: I Want It All; Until Our Kingdom Falls; Father To A Son; I Believe In You; Cuts Like A Knife; As Time Is Passing; Love Is All; Your Time Is Now; Action!; Bring Back The Night; Vampire's Call; Into The Quiet Night; Don't Tell Me (Bonus Track). Heavy Metal has never been more exciting and the new album promises to be a milestone in rock n' roll history! THE POODLES: Jakob Samuel - vocals, Pontus Egberg – bass, Christian Lundqvist - drums, Henrik Bergqvist – guitars, Produced by Mats Valentin. WebLinks: www.poodles.se / www.frontiers.it.   xxxx ICONIC ROCK FRONTMAN SEBASTIAN BACH INKS WITH FRONTIERS RECORDS WORLDWIDE: Frontiers Records is proud to announce the signing of golden-voiced, iconic rock frontman Sebastian Bach to an exclusive worldwide, multi-album recording contract. Bach will head in to the studio later this month with his new young virtuosic guitarist Nick Sterling to record a brand new album. Producer Bob Marlette (Black Sabbath, Shinedown, Atreyu, Filter) will be at the helm. The album is tentatively scheduled for a summer, 2011 worldwide release. Sebastian Bach commented, "I would like to sincerely thank all at Frontiers Records for their support and belief in me, my band and the new tunes. Expect an album full of high-energy rock n' roll with kick-ass clean and clear vocals, along with me laying down the craziest screams I have recorded in my life thus far… To all of the rockers of the world, thank you for letting me create killer music for the past two decades, and all I can say is, we are just warming up mothertruckers!" Frontiers Records President Serafino Perugino added, "We are pleased and honored to be at the service of Sebastian Bach! We look forward to help make his forthcoming album a hard rock milestone!" Sebastian Bach has sold in excess of 20 million records worldwide as lead singer with his former band, Skid Row and as a solo artist. Far from just being a multi-platinum recording artist, the singer/songwriter/actor/entertainer has expanded his career over the past decade to include episodic television with a 5-season recurring role on the CW's hit series "Gilmore Girls", starring roles on Broadway ("Jekyll & Hyde", "The Ricky Horror Picture Show") and national touring companies ("Jesus Chris Superstar"), as well as an ongoing relationship with MTV/VH1. WebLinks: www.sebastianbach.com / www.facebook.com/sebastianbach / www.twitter.com/sebastianbach / www.reverbnation.com/sebastianbach / www.frontiers.it. JUST IN TIME FOR VALENTINE'S DAY…WHITESNAKE'S NEW VIDEO "LOVE WILL SET YOU FREE": Whitesnake has partnered with VEVO for the world premiere of the brand new video Love Will Set You Free. The video can be viewed below. Directed by Devin DeHaven/Fortress Entertainment (Papa Roach, Method Man, Talib Kweli), the video was shot in Lake Tahoe, NV. "Love Will Set You Free" is the first single from the forthcoming Whitesnake album, Forevermore, and is available for purchase from February 21 at all digital stores. Forevermore is due out on March 29 in North America and March 25 in Europe and finds founder/singer/songwriter David Coverdale and company returning to their no-holds-barred, bluesiest, sexiest rock n' roll roots.  This will be Whitesnake's 11th album and the first release via the Italian-based Frontiers Records label. Forevermore was recorded, produced and mixed by Los Bros Brutalos (Coverdale, Doug Aldrich and Michael McIntyre) at Snakebyte Studios and Grumblenott Studios & Villas in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, with additional work at Casa Dala, Sherman Oaks, CA. About Whitesnake - Formed in 1977, and steered by the legendary David Coverdale, Whitesnake carry a rightful reputation as one of the world's leading rock n' roll bands. Coverdale's blues roots, combined with a feral sense of rockin' and rollin', have consistently shaped the 'Snake's sound along with Coverdale's love and appreciation of impeccable musicianship.  Whitesnake's ascent to the very top of the rock n' roll heap was confirmed with 1987's self-titled mega-platinum album, which saw two massive Top 10 hits, two #1 singles with "Here I Go Again" and "Is This Love" and a virtual 24-hour domination of MTV around the world. Whitesnake is David Coverdale (vocals), Doug Aldrich (guitars), Reb Beach (guitars), Michael Devin (bass) and Briian Tichy (drums). About VEVO - VEVO is the leading premium music video and entertainment service with 1.7 billion worldwide streams and over 60 million unique visitors in the U.S. and Canada each month. VEVO's programming is made available across the VEVO platform, which includes VEVO.com (the service's marquee destination site), VEVO Mobile (iPhone, iPod touch), VEVO connected devices (Google TV, Boxee) and a VEVO-branded embedded player. VEVO also syndicates its programming to additional internet destination sites, including AOL, BET, CBS Interactive Music Group (including Last.fm), Univision and, through a special partnership, VEVO on YouTube, expanding the platform's reach across the worldwide web. For more information please visit: www.whitesnake.com / www.frontiers.it.   STEVE AUGERI POSTPONES SOLO SHOWS: Steve Augeri's management issued the following statement over the weekend: "Steve regrets to announce that he had to cut his Brazilian trip short due to a private matter within the band. The guys were very disappointed to miss the Porto Alegre show, especially after playing to a sold out crowd in Sao Paulo the night before. Steve, and the band, are looking forward to rescheduling Porto Alegre and have already been invited back to Sao Paulo as well as Rio de Janeiro." MELODIC BRIEFS: Nonpoint finally recorded their fan-favorite cover of Billie Jean. They cite Michael Jackson, Chris Cornell, and David Cook for inspiration regarding the song. Nonpoint's version had been previously available on YouTube only, and the band had received numerous requests for a full track listing. The band wanted to do something special for their fans after reaching 100,000 likes to their fan page, and is offering it for free! You can download it here: www.mediafire.com/?lheyiks4h6hsgp0 / www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-3skeMWT5E&feature=related. Live video of Spread Eagle last week at Dingbatz, check out "Scratch Like A Cat" live video on RockEyez. Lighting wasn't the best but it's only a taste of what is to come. www.rockeyez.com. Empires of Eden and the people at evolution rock Podcast have combined to release a new Podcast for Empires of Eden. Featured in the "masters of shred" series, Guitarist Stu Marshall takes an in depth look at his playing, explains much of the secrets to Empires of Eden and, provides a vision for what is ahead. Click the link for the free download: evolutionrock.podomatic.com. Tunnel has just posted a new single Disarray online. The song features Scott Hammons and David Henzerling plus Troy Luckketta (Tesla) on drums. Check it out here: tunnelonline.bandcamp.com/album/disarray-single or at the band's Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pages/Tunnel/189904714702. A new interview with Richie Scarlet is online now at: RockMusicStar.com. MOTLEY CRUE 1981 TOO FAST FOR LOVE PRO-SHOT TOUR FOOTAGE SURFACES: 30-year old footage of Motley Crue performing live at The Roxy Theatre in West Hollywood, California has surfaced to promote a series of Hard Rock/Heavy Metal themed auctions from eBay seller EliteWorks. The Motley Crue segment, which also includes a brief interview with a 22-year old Nikki Sixx, was shot on November 12, 1981, just prior to the independent release of Motleys debut album Too Fast For Love. Several one-of-a-kind Motley Crue collectables are featured in the auctions, including a June 1981 promotional Umatic master videotape of the bands first two music videos (Take Me To The Top and Public Enemy#1), a test pressing 12" single from Theatre Of Pain, a 24-year old stage used items from the Girls, Girls, Girls Tour as well as guitar picks, early press kits, import singles, t-shirts and much more. Vintage memorabilia from KISS, Bon Jovi, Alice Cooper, Van Halen, Scorpions, Dio, The Cult, Guns N Roses, Tesla, Quiet Riot, Ratt, W.A.S.P., Mr. Big, Faster Pussycat, King Diamond and even lesser known cult acts such as Warlock, Fates Warning, Pretty Boy Floyd, Dirty Looks, Tora Tora, Sacred Reich and Oliver Magnum are also featured among this weeks 84 auctions which may be viewed here: search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZeliteworks. The 1981 Motley Crue footage can be seen here: www.youtube.com/user/EliteWorksATeBay?feature=mhum#p/u/0/Eri8dHCjg30.

 

 

Friday, February 11, 2011

NEW JOURNEY ALBUM DUE: The upcoming new Journey album has a title and a tentative release date. While I can't reveal the title today, stay tuned for further details very soon. I can say that the album is expected out worldwide on or around June 1. MR. BIG HIT IT BIG (AGAIN) WITH STRONG CHART DEBUTS FOR NEW ALBUM "WHAT IF…": Shredder rock-pop metallers Mr. Big are back with brand new album What If… The new studio release finds all four original band members reuniting for their first album in 14 years. Produced by Kevin Shirley (Aerosmith, Rush, Iron Maiden), What If…will now be released in North America on February 15. The first single from the album, "Undertow," will impact at radio this week. Released last month overseas, What If…has hit the European album charts with strong respective debuts including: #36 in Switzerland, #50 in Germany, #71 in Austria, #71 in Italy and #75 in Sweden. 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. The DVD includes videos of "Undertow" and "All the Way Up" plus a documentary "making of" the album including interviews and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of the four band members. Please see below for the complete album track listing. In other Mr. Big news, the band will play their first U.S. show in more than 14 years on April 2nd at the House Of Blues in West Hollywood, CA. More U.S. tour dates will be announced later this year. Formed in 1988, Mr. Big forged its place in hard rock history by combining trademark virtuosic musicianship with stellar vocal harmonies. The original (and now reunited) line-up features vocalist Eric Martin, guitarist Paul Gilbert, bassist Billy Sheehan, and drummer Pat Torpey. The quartet produced numerous hit songs that ranged across a wide array of rock genres, including the ubiquitous "To Be With You," which was a Billboard Hot 100 #1 single in 15 countries for weeks, propelling the band to huge international success and record sales in the multi-millions.   NEW FIREWORKS MAGAZINE OUT AND FIREFEST UPDATE: Firefest 2011 - Firstly, an enormous thank you to everyone who has bought tickets so far. This year has seen an unprecedented initial demand, far out-stripping anything we have ever seen before - and this is before any magazine advertising has been taken out. Almost 90% of the Friday tickets have already been sold, so if you're wanting to see this show please get your orders in ASAP. Sales for Saturday and Sunday are also going extremely well, and it's looking possible that Firefest 2011 might emulate Firefest 3 in being a sell-out. Please Note - Tickets for Firefest 2011 will be sent out starting the end of the week commencing Monday 14th. New Firefest Live Clips Now Online - Speaking of Firefest, two of the sets from previous years that have been highly acclaimed are those of Romeo's Daughter and Honeymoon Suite from Firefest 6. You can now see four full-length DVD clips from these sets at www.rocktopia.com (click on the Rocktopia TV section). These clips join the already available clips of Gotthard's amazing FF3 set, Wig Wam, and Two Fires' legendary set from the Gods 2000. Fireworks #44 Out Now - The latest melodic-rock packed issue of Fireworks Magazine is now available in selected WH Smith stores (check www.rocktopia.net for full list) and online from Rocktopia.net. Issue #44 has a Magnum cover feature and includes interviews with Ten, John Waite, Robin Beck, TNT, Houston, Danny Vaughn, Bad Habit, Rock Sugar, Vega, Miss Behaviour, ColdSpell, arK, Lynam, Pavlov's Dog, Robert Fleischman, Mostly Autumn, Ralf Scheepers, Seventh Wonder and many more! This issue also comes with TWO free CDs in a full colour gatefold sleeve. CD1 contains many tracks from the latest hottest releases, including TNT, Robin Beck, Bad Habit, Oliver Weers, Alexis, Moritz, Tainted Nation and ColdSpell, while CD2 is a wonderful collection of the cream of unsigned acts put together by the TSM (Two Side Moon) promotion company. Hard copy issues can also be bought direct via Paypal, to fireworks.mag@ntlworld.com (£6 UK, £7.50 Europe, £9.50 USA/Rest of World). For UK, cheques for £6 (inc P&P) payable to 'Bruce Mee' can be sent to Fireworks Magazine, 10 Dunnock Close, Offerton, Stockport, SK2 5XD. CD1 1. TNT – Ship in the night 2. Robin Beck – The One 3. Bad Habit – In the Heat of the Night 4. Danger Zone – Line of Fire 5. Arryan Path – Angel With no Destination 6. Tainted Nation – Dare You 7. Miss Behaviour – 1988 8. ColdSpell – Run For Your Life 9. 8-IS – Fallin' In Your Eyes 10. Moritz – Who Do You Run To 11. Hell in the Club – On the Road 12. Alexis – Golden Path 13. Seventh Wonder – Alley Cat 14. The Apple Bros – What You Put Me Through 15. Lowlands – Gotta Be (Something Out There) 16. Oliver Weers – Devil's Chains 17. Haven – Proud Soldiers 18. Bad Things – Prison Train. CD2 1- M.I.C. - Barbie-Lady 2- Ghost – Alive 3- Livesay - Awaken The Giant 4- Sweetkiss Momma - Come Clean 5- Wiser Time - Love And Devotion 6- Hion Martell - Wasting Time 7- Marshmellow Overcoat - She's A Winner 8- The Dreaming Tree - Silence Won't Steal 9- Four Trips Ahead - Remembering Who I Am 10- Eloah - What You Mean To Me 11- Bodenrocker - Scooter 12- Conflux - Luncheons & Wagons 13- Shot - Axegrinder 14- Lachlan Horne - Be Like You 15- Rampart - Mirror To Dreams 16- Tubefreeks - Blackwater Rise 17- Smell My Pillow - Life's Too Short 18- E.Z. Riders - Let Me Be Your Man 19- Charge Of The Light Brigade - Last Door Down.   DON'T STOP BELIEVIN' – THE UNTOLD STORY OF JOURNEY BY NEIL DANIELS: Published By Omnibus Press, May 3. The First Ever In Depth Biography Of Journey. Journey are one of the most successful American melodic rock bands in history with record sales of over 75 million. The recent phenomenal success of 'Don't Stop Believin'' – the most downloaded song of all time – has given Journey a new lease of life and as such they have undergone a massive rise in popularity. For the first time ever, their entire history is explored in depth in this definitive biography which charts the many highs and many lows of one of America's most beloved rock bands. Don't Stop Believin' - 'Don't Stop Believin'' is not only Journey's signature song but also a motto they have lived by which has taken them through some difficult times. The previously untold story begins in 1973 when the band was hastily assembled in San Francisco, California and takes the reader on a journey through the early jazz fusion years, the dramatic change in sound to AOR/melodic rock, the numerous line-up changes, the hiring and firing of their first frontman Robert Flesichman and of course, the enormous success they would achieve with Steve Perry as well as those years following Perry's first (and second) departure. The topsy-turvy life of the band thereafter with three more singers is also explored in detail. Journey's renewed popularity with the Philpino singer Arnel Pineda and the success of the hit TV show Glee has meant that Journey's music is played in millions of households all around the world. The Untold Story Of Journey - Journey are now at the top of their game and receiving more acclaim and exposure since their early eighties peak years with the iconic multi-million selling Escape and Frontiers albums. Using original interviews and a wealth of research, The Untold Story Of Journey follows their career as they formed; matured and flourished and succeeded and failed. It is a story filled with heartache, bitterness and behind the scenes squabbles but also creativity, dedication, passion and drive. Journey gave the world songs such popular songs as 'Wheel In The Sky,' 'Ask The Lonely,' 'Any Way You Want It' and of course, 'Don't Stop Believin'' and quite literally invented the term 'stadium rock.' Pre-order the book at Amazon: www.amazon.co.uk/Dont-Stop-Believin-Untold-Journey. Website: www.neildaniels.com/Index.html / Blog: neildanielsbooks.wordpress.com. STRYPER GET BACK TO THEIR ROOTS ON COVERS SET, 'THE COVERING': Christian rockers Stryper are offering fans a head-banging view of who their influences were early on, with the arrival of an almost entire album's worth of cover songs titled The Covering. Set for release on February 15th via Big3 Records, the album includes twelve rocking covers, as well as the all-new original tune, "God". And most significantly, the album marks the return of original bassist Tim Gaines back into the Stryper fold, setting up the first Stryper release in years to feature the definitive line-up of Michael Sweet (vocals/guitar), Oz Fox (guitar), Tim Gaines (bass), and Robert Sweet (drums). According to Michael Sweet, the impetus for putting out a mostly covers set was a simple one. "Every Stryper album is pretty serious and pretty bold in the lyrical faith sense of the word. We just wanted to roll our sleeves up, cut loose, and have some fun." And when it came time to pick out a listing of tunes to cover, all the band had to do was look back upon their club days. "Growing up, before Stryper was even Stryper, we were a cover band. We played Gazzarri's on the Strip for years - we would do originals but also do covers, as well. We always did Priest covers and Maiden covers, all those bands we grew up on and who influenced us." What fans get is a CD that runs the gamut from 1970's era classic rock (Led Zeppelin's "Immigrant Song", Deep Purple's "Highway Star", Kiss' "Shout It Out Loud" etc.) to 1980's era heavy metal (Black Sabbath's "Heaven and Hell", the Scorpions' "Blackout", "Iron Maiden's "The Trooper" etc.). "A few things we set out to do on this album was to stay true to the original - we didn't want to disrespect the original versions," explains Michael. "I'm never going to sound like Bruce Dickinson or Ronnie James Dio, nor would I ever try to. And having me sing the song puts our own spin on it. We just all did our own thing and with our own touches and feel - Robert, Tim, Oz, and myself - it has that Stryper feel to it as well." Big3 Records Chairman Bill Edwards adds, "We are excited to allow Stryper the creative freedom to do what they do best, and take this album to the next level. We are very excited about working with the band and helping make 'The Covering' a widespread success." To support 'The Covering', Stryper is planning a tour that begins in March, and when it comes to the set list, it will contain quite a few surprises for longtime fans. "We're probably going to pull out four Stryper songs that haven't been played in the set in years. And then we're probably going to do four covers. We've also got a whole slew of other Stryper songs that we've been playing for a long time. So we probably have 20 songs in the set." Stryper fans rejoice, more anthemic metal will soon be on the way! 'The Covering' Track list: 1. Set Me Free (Sweet) 2. Blackout (Scorpions) 3. Heaven and Hell (Black Sabbath) 4. Lights Out (UFO) 5. Carry On Wayward Son (Kansas) 6. Highway Star (Deep Purple) 7. Shout It Out Loud (Kiss) 8. Over The Mountain (Ozzy Osbourne) 9. The Trooper (Iron Maiden) 10. Breaking The Law (Judas Priest) 11. On Fire (Van Halen) 12. Immigrant Song (Led Zeppelin) 13. God (Stryper). For more information, visit: www.stryper.com.   EUROPE LIVE ON DVD AND CD AND IN THE UK: Swedish hard rockers Europe are set to film the entirety of their London o2 Shepherd's Bush Empire concert on Saturday February 19th. The concert will be released on DVD and Blu-ray in October 2011, and will also include a bonus live CD. The London concert is part of Europe's "Balls 'N' Banners" UK tour which kicks off at the Glasgow o2 ABC on Thursday February 17th. The forthcoming DVD release will also include behind-the-scenes footage, including rehearsals and backstage banter filmed during the rest of the dates on the rest of the UK tour. Europe will perform music from their current album 'Last Look At Eden', plus classic tracks from their albums 'Wings of Tomorrow', 'The Final Countdown', 'Out of This World', 'Prisoners in Paradise', 'Start From The Dark' and 'Secret Society.' "We're taking some new directions with our songs, and we're exploring different styles," says Europe's lead singer Joey Tempest about the songs from the Eden album. "There is a definite classic rock vibe on some of the tracks... a tip of the hat to groovin', funkin' 70s rock songs, but ones we have bought into the here and now." Europe's "Balls 'N' Banners" UK tour dates in full: Glasgow o2 ABC (Feb 17), Birmingham o2 Academy (Feb 18), London o2 Shepherd's Bush Empire (Feb 19), Oxford o2 Academy (Feb 21), Bournemouth o2 Academy (Feb 22), Bristol o2 Academy (Feb 23), Manchester Academy 2 (Feb 25), Leeds o2 Academy (Feb 26) and Newcastle o2 Academy (Feb 27). Ticket Hotline: 0844 477 2000, 0161 832 1111 (Manchester). Book Online: www.ticketweb.co.uk, www.ticketline.co.uk. Read the official UK press release here - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/europe/tour.htm. In related news, Europe will release a Balls N Banners "EarBook" via Edel Books March 3 priced at 40 Euro. The Balls 'N' Banners EarBook includes text, photos and a new live CD and DVD. It is published by Edel Books under their imprint Earbooks.   PREVIEW DUSTBOWL TRACK FROM JOE BONAMASSA: To celebrate the March 21st release of Joe Bonamassa's highly anticipated new album 'Dust Bowl', his official website is making the title track available as a free MP3 download. Click here to download the song - jbonamassa.com/dustbowl/. But that's not all! Provogue Records is pleased to announce that they will also release a Limited Edition Digibook version of the Dust Bowl album, along with the standard CD and vinyl editions throughout the UK and Europe on March 21st. To pre-order your copy of Dust Bowl: Limited Edition from Amazon.co.uk, click here: amzn.to/g5sWWj. The limited edition print-run includes a comprehensive 8,000 word, 60-page digibook that chronicles Bonamassa's fascinating rise in popularity as one the most exciting blues guitarists of our time. Written with passion and authority by Henry Yates (guitar correspondent for Classic Rock, Total Guitar and Guitarist), the exclusive collector's edition book features never-before-seen personal photographs dating back to Joe's early childhood as a budding guitarist. To read the official UK press release, click here - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/joebonamassa/dustbowl.htm.   ROYAL HUNT ANNOUNCE FIRST NEW LIVE DATES: Royal Hunt and their former lead singer DC Cooper reunited - for a very few selected dates – in order to perform the entire "Paradox" (their first concept album from 1997) and several of "everybody's all-time favourite" songs from that period. For tour dates visit www.royalhunt.com. Royal Hunt has added Russian and Japanese dates to their upcoming tour: April 18th – St. Petersburg, GlavClub April 19th – Moscow, Mir Concert Hall April 23rd – Japan, Tokyo, Shinagawa Prince Stellar Ball April 24th – Japan, Nagoya, Bottom Line April 26th – Japan, Osaka, Club Quattro HUMAN COMETH BACK FOR ROUND TWO: Swedish / American hard rock band Human Cometh has released a 2 track single from their upcoming album HCII. The songs "Alone in the dark" and "Ambassadeur of rock" are now available for purchase at www.humancometh.com. Lead singer Kaj Roth has left a comment of both songs, Alone In The Dark (Every man who has a family, especially with daughters, wants them to grow up in a safe place. But my hometown turned into a very dark place with the recent happenings of the worst serial rapist in Swedish history, fortunately the Police caught him but I felt I needed to write about it, lets call him Jonathan just to give him a name) Ambassadeur Of Rock (Music will always conquer borders and after I´ve read Astronaut Fuglesang´s book, I realized music unites people from different countries even on the international space station in space. Astronauts are the true ambassadors of rock) The music was once again written by guitarist Morgan Pettersson and lyrics by Kaj Roth, the brilliant mix was handled by the legendary Dan Swanö plus the beautiful artwork was done by Anders Plassgård.   TEENAGE CASKET COMPANY RETURN WITH NEW SECRETS: UK Power Pop Rockers Teenage Casket Company return this May for a series of live shows in anticipation of the release of their new CD Best Kept Secret through US Label Jamsync Music. Never afraid to wear their hearts on their sleeve, Teenage Casket Company have forged a strong fan base that spans numerous rock genres. Since their formation in late 2003 the band quickly established themselves as a monster hard rock force not only in their home country but worldwide with constant touring in both Europe and the USA. Despite a break of almost two years, the TCC flame still burnt strong as the band pursued their own individual projects as members toured and wrote with the likes of 80s Rock Legends The BulletBoys, well respected Glam Frontman Stevie Jaimz, Richard Bacchus from New York Sleeze Punk Icons D-Generations, Boston Cock Rockers Sins of America and Irish Tour Dogs The Dangerfields. All the time at shows, the question was asked 'When are TCC returning?'. It was clear that people truly loved this band! Following the departure of founding member Jamie Delerict in 2009, frontman Wylde, bassist Rob 'Laney74' Lane, and powerhouse drummer Spike, have forged on, refining the band's sound and hitting back hard with their single 'Best Friend Is My Radio'. The band will be performing tracks both old and new with more touring plans scheduled for later this year. Catch TCC here.... Thursday 5th May - Yardbirds, Grimsby Friday 6th May - Hyem, Newcastle Saturday 7th - The Central, Nottingham (Wildside Rock Night) More on Teenage Casket Company @ jamsyncmusic.com THIS WEEK ON HAIR METAL HAVEN: On this weeks Hair Metal Haven, Chris Nelson is doing a 2 hour Firefest special, featuring songs from all the artists appearing at this years festival . Also on the show is an interview Chris did at last years Firefest with Swedish sensations Grand Design and another fantastic 18 & Life personal questions with Marseille vocalist Nige Roberts. So for ticket, times and all the info on the bands join Chris this Saturday 12th February 17.00-19.00gmt on www.phoenixradio.co.uk. MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new titles: Gary Moore - Live - 1982-08-28 (Reading Festival - 5 Tracks) Gary Moore - Live - 1984-03-19 (Full Show) Yngwie Malmsteen - Summerfest 1985-07-06 MRX Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, February 10, 2011

GARY MOORE 1952-2011: The family of Gary Moore have issued this statement: "On Sunday 6th February 2011 musician Gary Moore died in his sleep of a heart attack while on holiday in Spain. Acknowledged as one of the finest guitarists that the British Isles has ever produced; Gary Moore's career dated back to the sixties. Moore graced the line-ups of several notable rock bands including Thin Lizzy, Collosseum II and Skid Row, to name but three, and to this year maintained a highly successful solo career. Gary is survived by four children; daughters Saoirse and Lily and sons Jack and Gus. His family take great comfort in the fact he died of natural causes [note: suspected heart attack] and was looking forward to his holiday prior to recording a new album. Gary was thrilled by new guitars he had just bought and was planning to play shows throughout the world, later this year. His family has requested that their privacy is respected during this sad time and no further comment will be made. They would very much like to express their heartfelt thanks for the show of support and all the kind messages from friends and fans alike, the world over." MISS BEHAVIOUR - LAST WOMAN STANDING RECEIVING GREAT FEEDBACK: This Sunday, February 13, Sebastian Roos, the lead singer of the upcoming Swedish Melodic Rock hopefuls Miss Behaviour, will join Steve Price on his show on ARfm. You can tune in to the Steve Price Show over at www.arfm.co.uk between 6.00 pm and 9.00 pm UK time (7.00 and 10.00 pm Central European Time). The feedback for Miss Behaviour's album Last Woman Standing from the media and the fans is simply amazing. The band members and the label send out a big "Thank You" to all the fans who have bought the album so far and to the media partners at the magazines, webzines and radio stations for their continued support. A little selection of quotes and review ratings from around the world: Classic Rock magazine (Dave Ling - UK, review rating 8/10) "The quartet play effortless-sounding, harmonious hard rock, overlain with great, accent-free vocals (courtesy of bassist Sebastian Roos) that immediately marks them out as Scandinavian" melodic.net (Juha Harjula- Sweden, review rating 4.5/5) "If you are into bands such as H.e.a.t, Eclipse, Treat, Talisman and W.E.T, then check out this Swedish sensation…An album that will be on many Top-lists 2011 for sure." Dangerdog (Craig Hartranft – USA, review rating 4.5/5) "Miss Behaviour gives us a lesson in melodic rock history" Rock Report (Chris Lambert – Belgium, review rating 6/6) "A great album to start the year with (hence the full marks) and I'm pretty confident that we will hear a lot more of these guys in the years to come." Glory Daze (George Thatcher - Australia, review rating 8.5/10) Extended Mix (Roger Ohrström – Sweden, review rating 9/10) Rock United (Kimmo Toivonen – Finland, review rating 8/10) metal-integral.com (Axldobby - France, review rating 19/20) Rockingboy.de (Stefan Thür - Germany, review rating 9/10, "Hall Of Fame") Rocinante Rock (Pablo B. – Argentina, review rating 98 /100) Stormbringer.at (Manfred Thanner - Austria, review rating 4/5) Rock Rebel Magazine (Francesco Cacciatore - Italy, review rating 5/5) To promote the album the band is currently preparing a series of acoustic instore performances in their home country Sweden. Details will follow shortly. Meanwhile please check out the debut video for the first single from "Last Woman Standing "Till We Meet Again": www.youtube.com/watch?v=SchX6n6EQZg / www.missbehaviour.se.   xx SINNER - NEW ALBUM UPDATE: Germany's legendary heavy rockers Sinner are back with a new studio album and a reloaded line-up! Alongside main man Mat Sinner and guitarist Christof Leim (The New Black), the band now also features Alex Scholpp (Tarja, Farmer Boys) on guitars, André Hilgers (Rage) on drums and the comeback of Alex Beyrodt (Primal Fear, Voodoo Circle) on guitars. Yes, you got that right – three guitars! That's one louder! The band is currently recording their new album One Bullet Left with producer Mat Sinner and engineer Achim Koehler in Stuttgart, Germany. A worldwide release date was set by AFM Records for Sept. 09, 2011, the first single & video Back On Trail will be available in early August! More news soon! WebLink: www.matsinner.com.   SHREDGUY RECORDS NEWS: Shredguy Records has released a track from Jorn guitarist Tore St Moren. The track titled The Journey is a melodic metal assault from this talented guitar player. Shredguy Records president Michael McDowell states "Over the last two years, hundreds of guitar players have sent me tracks. Most of the time its the same thing over and over again. What set Tore apart is his approach to shredding...fitting shred in the context of a good melodic song and building until his flurry of tasty notes rips your face off!" The song is on sale at iTunes and amazon.com.   IT BITES – IT HAPPENED ONE NIGHT UK TOUR AND DVD LAUNCH: In May 2011 It Bites will release their new DVD entitled It Happened One Night and tour the UK playing selected dates to launch the Concert Film. The DVD was recorded in February 2010 in front of a sold out crowd of It Bite fans from the UK and Europe. Made In Cumbria is the bands mission statement and the DVD was performed, filmed and edited in Cumbria by music video director Russell Cherrington. As a added bonus for all fans of the band It Bites have promised to play a selection of new material at these shows before they head into the studio later in the year to record the follow up to their 2008 album The Tall Ships. Since It Bites burst on to the UK music scene in 1986 with hits like Calling All The Heroes, Kiss Like Judas, All In Red and Still Too Young To Remember, they have built up a loyal following worldwide and have toured with some of the biggest names in Rock, such as Robert Plant, Marillion and Status Quo. It Bites are John Beck keyboards and vocals, Bob Dalton drums and vocals, John Mitchell guitar and lead vocals with Nathan King from Level 42 playing bass on these dates. Special guest is Jon Amor a one man musical industry, playing with The Hoax and Amor as well as his solo albums with guest such as Robert Plant, he is not to be missed. 14th May Manchester Academy * T 01618321111 www.manchesteracademy.net 15th May Birmingham Z Rock Festival 16th May London The Peel House of Progression * T 02085463516 www.houseofprogression.webeden.co.uk 18th May Newcastle The Cluny ** T 01912304474 www.ticketweb.co.uk 19th May Glasgow The Arches ** T 01415651000 www.thearches.co.uk 20th May Whitehaven Rosehill Theatre ** T 01946692422 www.rosehilltheatre.co.uk * Special Guest Jon Amor (www.jonamor.com) ** Special Guest Jon Amor (www.jonamor.com) and 13 Stars.   STEVE VAI ONLINE GUITAR LESSON RECORD BID: Berkleemusic, the online continuing education division of Boston's renowned Berklee College of Music, along with Grammy®-award winning guitar virtuoso Steve Vai, announced a call to action for guitarists around the world to join forces and set the Guinness® World Record for the largest online guitar lesson on March 3rd, 2011. This first-of-its-kind initiative will bring together the worldwide community of guitarists in an unprecedented online celebration of music education. Vai, who is currently recording a new album and preparing for an extensive world tour, is a Berklee alumnus with a devoted fan base in over seventy countries. Although he is not a guitar instructor, Vai is a passionate advocate for music exploration and hopes the event will encourage players to continue to cultivate their own unique style and spirit on the instrument. "This online event, and the larger efforts Berkleemusic is making to teach students around world, is a great example of the collaboration that happens at Berklee," says Vai. "Whether you're in Boston, Bombay, or Brussels, we'll all be together on March 3rd." The World's Largest Online Guitar Lesson is a one-time event that takes place Thursday, March 3rd, 2011 at 1:30PM EST. Berkleemusic has partnered with Livestream, the pre-eminent live streaming video platform, to host this event in their New York City studio. Participants can learn more about the online lesson at www.berkleemusic.com/vai-live. Vai's FREE online lesson will last 30 minutes, and will provide a look into Steve's technique with a focus on how guitarists can develop and gain insight into their own playing. In order to further engage with his fans, Steve is also encouraging participants to submit questions to him online, which he will answer onstage at the conclusion of his online lesson. Interested participants can submit questions to Steve on the event's web page, located here: www.berkleemusic.com/vai-live. As a gesture of its commitment to music education, Berkleemusic will donate one dollar for every person that joins the online lesson to the Steve Vai Online Scholarship Fund at Berkleemusic, which is designed to reward and assist outstanding students studying in Berkleemusic's multi-course certificate programs. "Steve Vai is one of the most popular guitarists on the planet, and deservedly so," says Dave Kusek, CEO of Berkleemusic. "We're thrilled and honored to partner with Steve for this unique online guitar lesson, and excited to play a part in exposing a record-setting number of guitarists from around the world to his 'otherworldly' techniques." Berkleemusic and Steve Vai have also partnered to author a brand new 12-week online course: Steve Vai Guitar Techniques. This online course presents students with the chance to gain a deep understanding of Vai's death-defying playing styles, repertoire, techniques, and musical concepts from anywhere in the world, and incorporate their learnings into their own playing. The Steve Vai Guitar Techniques online course builds upon the renowned guitar curriculum that Berklee has been providing to students for decades. The course is now open for enrollment for the school's spring term which begins on April 4th, 2011. For more information regarding the course, registration information, and to sample an online guitar course, visit Berkleemusic.com. A NEW STUDIO RELEASE FROM PROTO-KAW, "FORTH" COMING IN THE SPRING OF 2011: Three years in the making, Forth is the most intriguing Proto-Kaw album to date. New material from composer Kerry Livgren takes the unique Proto-Kaw sound to fresh, new heights that will excite current fans while expanding their broad appeal even further to entirely new audiences. Proto-Kaw's "Forth" again boasts the talents of four original members of an early 1970's version of the band Kansas. As with their previous releases, "Forth" contains all original material from Kerry Livgren, the driving influence of the famous version of Kansas. Credited for such timeless classic hits as "Dust In The Wind" and "Carry On Wayward Son", Livgren continues to inspire beyond his music. Musically, "Forth" is undoubtedly Proto-Kaw's strongest and most diverse work. This 12 song tour-de-force highlight's Livgren's incredibly broad approach to composition. A myriad of ingredients beautifully mesh the styling's of rock, prog, jazz and beyond. The ultimate triumph of the new release is the fact that the music cannot be easily relegated to any one particular genre. Previous releases include the 1972 recordings "Proto-Kaw: Early Recordings from Kansas" which was positively reviewed in 2002 by Rolling Stone Magazine. It was followed by all new studio material after the band reunited in 2004 for the release of "Before Became After" and 2006's "The Wait of Glory". "Forth" will be released on the Numavox label and available at their website, www.numavox.com as well as Amazon and iTunes. For additional information on Proto-Kaw, visit www.proto-kaw.net and search "Proto-Kaw" on Facebook.

 

 

Wednesday, February 09, 2011

DEF LEPPARD ANNOUNCE AN ANNOUNCEMENT: Def Leppard have announced that they will soon be making an announcement! And what of this upcoming announcement? One would presume it is news of the band's planned 2011 tour and (hopefully) a release date for the planned Double Live CD that is set to include up to 5 new studio tracks. Stay tuned. CHICKENFOOT MEMBERS HAVE 'REAL SPECIAL CHEMISTRY': From Guitar International, via Gibson.com: "Sammy Hagar recently discussed the status of the new Chickenfoot album with Guitar International. The former Van Halen frontman and solo star said that the sessions have been extremely productive, after only a week of work. "[It's been] seven days and you ain't gonna believe it, but we've got eleven songs," Hagar said. "We're writing in the studio on the spot. Joe [Satriani] presents us with some musical ideas, and his ideas are really together, it isn't this vague idea. He presents you with an intro, a verse, a chorus, a bridge, a solo and an ending. Then we jam to it. I see if it feels melodically in my repertoire of blues licks that I have in my voice. [Laughs] Then I come up with a good melody and structure, and we work on the arrangement until we all agree … I can't believe how fast things are going with this record. It's amazing." But Hagar said that Chickenfoot's productivity doesn't mean that listeners will hear the sophomore album any time sooner. "We're flying through it, but I don't think that'll have any bearing on when it gets released," Hagar said. "I don't think we'll release it until towards the end of the year. It's happening fast on its own, but we had to cram Chad [Smith] into this five-week period we have here to get it done. We're way ahead of that. We expected in the five weeks to get 12 or 13 songs written and lay down the drum tracks. Then Chad could go away for the rest of the year and Joe, Michael [Anthony] and I could finish the record." So what can fans expect to hear on the new album? "We're even pushing ourselves this time to do some things musically that we know we're capable of, but that we haven't touched on yet," Hagar said. "I keep telling Joe, 'Come up with any idea you want for me. How would you like to hear me sing? Write some music like that and I'll stretch myself and make my voice and lyric ideas work for that music.' We've done this already in a short time, and it seems like with this band everything just comes easy. No matter what we bite off, it comes easy. There's a real special chemistry that we have with this band." NewsLink: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/chickenfoot-0208-2011/ GET READY FOR THE CARS TO MOVE LIKE THIS: Also from Gibson: "The Cars have confirmed what everyone was expecting – the four surviving members of the new wave hitmakers will release a reunion album this Spring. Move Like This will be released on May 10. Ric Ocasek, Elliot Easton, David Robinson and Greg Hawkes regrouped last summer before posting a photo of themselves working in the studio on Facebook. They've since released clips of some of their new songs. The only missing original member is bassist/vocalist Benjamin Orr, who died from cancer in 2000. Hawkes has taken over bass duties. Move Like This will be The Cars' first album of new material since 1987's Door to Door. The album's first single is called "Sad Song," and will be released in mid-March.   THE OUTFIELD HIT #1 IN AOR MUSIC CHART: The Outfield has returned to the music charts with their single, 'California Sun', soaring to #1 after three weeks on the Worldwide FM Class X Radio chart. The band has just released The Very Best of The Outfield on Sony's Playlist Series that includes the new #1 track. "To help elevate the awareness of the new compilation and upcoming new studio album, we decided to release 'California Sun' to a non - traditional limited market," said Brent Bitner, manager of The Outfield. "We felt this was a great platform to re-introduce the band to the marketplace. Class X Radio has a true rock format with a fresh approach that still embraces the values of musical integrity. The fact Class X is available on iTunes Radio and reaches 1.8 million listeners benefits our fan base while reaching out to new fans ". While The Outfield has received an incredible reaction to the new Sony compilation and 'California Sun', the buzz around the industry continues to circle around the band's new studio album. Those insiders who have heard the new tracks praise the sonic leap in which the band has embraced. With all original members, The Outfield seem to be an energized and focused band poised to proceed in today's musical landscape for the right reasons. "From day one of this new project, we had a collective vision on how we wanted to approach the new world of the music business," Bitner said. "We were a little bored with the industry's jaded views. It all starts with the songs, quality controlled songs. We didn't want to cheat the fans by touring year after year playing the same set of songs without having a credible product behind us." Striving for this excellence explains the length of time the new album has taken to record. The new tracks were recorded in various studios around southern England for all of 2010. It seems as though the band's approach is beginning to pay off. With the release of a brand new greatest hits compilation, a new studio album almost complete and a #1 song in a music chart, is touring far behind? Bitner explains, "John, Tony and Alan will start live rehearsals in a few weeks. There have been various approaches for the band over the past year or two. The Outfield is versatile in the fact they can blend nicely with new and heritage acts. The opportunity to have all original members doesn't happen too much these days, so The Outfield couldn't be more excited about their new opportunities!" LIBERTY & JUSTICE ALREADY WORKING ON PUMPING OUT NEXT ALBUM: Between now and midnight Valentines Day (2-14-11) Liberty N Justice are going to give anyone and everyone a chance to get a sneak peak at the "yet to be announced" new LNJ double CD The Cigar Chronicles. The disk features 26 new studio tracks (14 cover tunes and 12 original tunes) and is being produced by JK Northrup, CJ Snare, Anthony Gravley, & Mike Layne. The CD will feature 26 guest vocalists and a loaded up list of guest musicians. The recording process is about 50% done and LNJ is planning on a late 2011- early 2012 release date. To get your free music (4 demos 3 featuring scratch vocals by JK Northrup "Cupid's Gonna Bleed" ,"Whack A Mole", & "YMCA" and one featuring Baton Rouge's Kelly Kealing "Quicksand Jesus") go to www.libertynjustice.net click on the contact button and send an email to Justin Murr with the subject line "Cupid's Gonna Bleed". In other LNJ news, Liberty N' Justice has now raised over $6k for epilepsy research and is still taking donations through their website. For a donation of at least $7.50 you get LNJ's latest EP "Chasing A Cure" which features Paul Shortino, Ron Keel, Jeff Paris, Terry Ilous, Donnie Vie, Eddie Ojeda, Bill Leverty etc..   NEW CLASSIC ROCK AND METAL PODCAST: The February edition of the new Classic Rock And Metal Podcast is available for streaming at www.classicrockpodcast.com and for download through iTunes. This month Ricky Warwick from the new Thin Lizzy touring line-up talks about what pursuaded him to front this version of the band and how he prepared for it. We also have an exclusive live track performed by the new line-up in London during the recent UK tour. Europe have released three albums since their return in 2004 but it was 2009's Last Look At Eden album that starting turning heads in the mainstream again. They're headling a tour in the UK this month so frontman Joey Tempest checks in to chew the fat about this album, and THAT song. Tokyo Blade are one of British heavy metal's originals. From their debut in 1983 the band have been through many line-up changes and produced ten studio albums. Their latest, Thousand Men Strong was produced by legendary Chris Tsangarides (Ozzy, Judas Priest, Thin Lizzy) and is due for release in March and features the original line-up with the addition of new vocalist Nicolaj Ruhnow. Guitarist Andy Boulton shares tales of woe from the early days and how great it was to get back in the studio with the old gang. David Rock Feinstein is frontman for the band The Rods, was in ELF with Ronnie James Dio who also happened to be his cousin. Dave's recent solo album Bitten By The Beast features one of Ronnie Dio's last known recordings and he tells us how it came to be there. Finally we have the first part of our interview with Grammy-nominated producer Chris Tsangarides. As always there's music too plus the latest classic rock news roundup, tour information for February and new releases. The Classic Rock and Metal Podcast is available to stream or download on the first Monday of every month and is intended for people wanting to catch up on their favourite rock and metal bands of the 70s and 80s, find out what they're doing now and learn about some of the great new bands following in their footsteps. www.classicrockpodcast.com. MELODIC BRIEFS: Metal Injection the premiere home for all videos hard rock and metal have teamed up with SPV/Steamhammer recording artists Evergrey for an exclusive world premiere of their new video for "Wrong" The video was helmed by acclaimed director Patric Ullaeus and the Revolver.se crew who are responsible for videos from: Lacuna Coil, In Flames, Dimmu Borgir and Kamelot. The song is taken from Evergrey's new release "Glorious Collision" which will be released February 22 in North America, February 25th in Germany and February 28th in Europe via SPV/Steamhammer. Check out the premiere at: www.metalinjection.net/tv/view/6374/evergrey-wrong-video. Classic Rock Revisited pays tribute to Gary Moore: www.classicrockrevisited.com/interviewGARYMOORETRIBUTE.htm. Interview with Grand Design (from Firefest) on the Hair Metal Haven this Saturday 12th Feb 17.00-19.00gmt on www.phoenixradio.co.uk.

 

 

Tuesday, February 08, 2011

CROWN OF THORNS LIVE IN AUSTRALIA - ONE-OFF MELBOURNE SHOW: For the first time in Australia, MelodicRock.com, Vagabond Entertainment and Crown of Thorns Oz Army presents Crown of Thorns LIVE! Sunday May 15 at Melbourne's The Corner Hotel. Fronted by Jean Beauvoir, co-writer for Kiss, The Ramones, and countless other bands and musicians, Crown of Thorns are about real rock n roll. Hook laden melodies, killer riffs and the attitude to deliver a no holds barred rock show that will sure delight their fans downunder. Formed at the dawn of the 90's by Jean Beauvoir, who had a major hit in Australia with "Feel The Heat" that featured on the Sylvester Stallone movie "Cobra", Crown of Thorns quickly became the subject of a fierce major label bidding war. Interscope emerged as the winner, reportedly paying them a cool million dollars for the honour. Crown of Thorns enlisted the help of Paul Stanley to produce certain tracks on the debut. Other notable collaborators included Jim Vallance and Beau Hill. However, with musical climates changing and management differences, the album would never see the light of day as an Interscope release. A year later, the band signed with Now & Then records in the UK to finally release the debut. The album arrived in stores to much critical acclaim, entering the metal charts a week after release and staying there for an incredible six months. After sold out club tours throughout the UK, Crown of Thorns embarked on a three month stadium tour of Europe as special guests to Bon Jovi and Van Halen, playing to over a million people. The band were given rave reviews from those in attendance. Now with six studio albums to their name, Crown of Thorns will finally make their debut on Australian soil. The one off show will feature the band performing many songs from the Paul Stanley co-produced self titled debut album, as well as their most recent album Faith. The band will also be available for a meet and greet with the fans after the show. Joining Crown of Thorns as a special guest will be Australian melodic rock sensations White Widdow, who have released their debut album through AOR Heaven in Europe. Crown Of Thorns: Sunday May 15, The Corner Hotel Pre-sale Ticket Price: $45 (+$3 booking fee) Door on the night: $50 (if available) Doors open: 8.00 Tickets On Sale: Mon 14 Feb   LIVE LIVE LIVE: October 21-23rd - Trent University & Nottingham Rock City, United Kingdom. Festival featuring Frontiers bands Warrant, Terry Brock, Jimi Jamison, Strangeways, Vega, Unruly Child, Silent Rage. Whitesnake – European dates 2 June 2011 Moscow, Russia @ Megasport Arena 4 June 2011 St. Petersburg, Russia @ Icearena 8 June 2011 Oslo, Norway @ Sentrum Scene 10 June 2011 Solvesborg, Sweden @ Sweden Rock Festival 13 June 2011 Newcastle, UK @ City Hall 14 June 2011 Glasgow, UK @ Clyde Auditorium 16 June 2011 Wolverhampton, UK @ Civic 17 June 2011 Manchester, UK @ Apollo 19 June 2011 Bournemouth, UK @ BIC 20 June 2011 London, UK @ Hammersmith Apollo 22 June 2011 Milano, Italy @ Gods of Metal 23 June 2011 Basel - St. Jakob, Switzerland @ Sonisphere Festival 25 June 2011 Dessel, Belgium @ Graspop 27 June 2011 Munich, Germany @ Zenith 28 June 2011 Prague, Czech Rep. @ Saska Arena 29 June 2011 Vienna, Austria @ Stadthalle 1 July 2011 Belgrade, Serbia @ Arena John Waite – Rough & Tumble Tour 2011 - Europe 19.04. D-Munich, Ampere (with Bonfire) 21.04. NL-Zaandam, De Kade 22.04. NL-Uden, De Pul 23.04. NL-Kerkrade, The Rock Temple 25.04. UK-Newcastle, The Cluny 26.04. UK-Pontefract, Manor Hotel 27.04. UK-Lancaster, Grand Theatre 29.04. D-Lorsch, Musiktheater Rex 02.05. CH-Uster, Rock City 04.05. D-Augsburg, Spectrum 08.05. UK-London, The Borderline Jimi Jamison - Tour dates Feb 8 Yoshi's Jazz Bar - San Francisco, CA, USA Mar 3 Orlando - Orlando, Florida, USA Mar 5 Englewood, Florida Festival - Englewood, Florida Mar 11 South American Tour 2011 - TBD, Chile Apr 23 Winona, MN - Winona, MN, USA Apr 30 Wildhorse Saloon - Nashville, TN, USA May 14 Carl Perkins Civic Ctr or Trinidad Jackson, TN, USA May 17 Festveranstaltung MUM Sektkellerei in einem Konzertkloster Germany May 20 Dresden, Dresden, Germany May 21 Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany May 29 Mohegan Sun Wolf's Den, Montville, CT, USA Jun 3 Rock Night in the Steam Engine Shed HSB, Wernigerode, Germany Jun 4 Tühringen, Tühringen, Germany Jun 17 Berlin Stadtfest, Germany Jun 18 Open–Air Steinbach-Langenbach, Germany Jun 24 Open-Air Berlin-Friedrich Hagen, Germany Aug 7 Rock 'n Jock, Warwick, RI, USA Aug 8 Rock 'n Jock, Warwick, RI, USA Aug 12 Magdeburg Ringfest, Germany Aug 13 Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe, Germany Nelson – US Dates February 26 - Hard Rock Biloxi, MS May 21 - Mohegan Sun Uncasville, CT June 11 - Bike & Roll Festival Lake Odessa, MI June 18 - Bike & Roll Festival Madison, WI July 9 - Comstock Rock Festival Comstock, NE Asia – US dates Apr 28 - The State Theatre, Easton, PA Apr 29 - Keswick Theatre, Glenside, PA Apr 30 - Tarrytown Music Hall, Tarrytown, NY May 01 - Birchmere, Alexandria, VA May 03 - Rams Head Tavern, Annapolis, MD - ***Sold Out*** May 05 - Community Theatre at Mayo Center, Morristown, NJ May 06 - The Turning Stone Casino and Resort, Verona, NY May 07 - Casino Rama, Rama, ON, Canada May 09 - Metropolis, Montreal, Canada May 12 - Leelanau Sands Casino, Peshawbestown, MI May 13 - House of Blues, Chicago, IL May 14 - Pabst Theatre, Milwaukee, WI Yoso Feb 15 - Key Club, West Hollywood, CA, US NO GRAVITY TO RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM 'WORLDS IN COLLISION' ON MARCH 18: No Gravity are a new progressive power metal outfit and the brainchild of renowned guitarist Simone Fiorletta. Their debut release Worlds In Collision features some of the most illustrious vocalists in the power/prog metal field and sees release on Lion Music on 18th March. Conceived in early 2010 from the ashes of Italian progressive metallers Moonlight Comedy, Simone Fiorletta's intention was to enclose in a single album the best singers of the Power/Prog world with each track tailored for each vocalists individual style; and what a selection of vocalists No Gravity have enrolled! With Andy Kuntz (Vanden Plas), Michele Luppi (Killing Touch, ex Vision Divine), Fabio Lione (Rhapsody Of Fire, Vision Divine), Mark Basile (DGM), Roberto Tiranti (Labyrinth) and Emiliano Germani (Moonlight Comedy) providing the vocal angle this release makes a serious statement of intent from this new band. The No Gravity line-up is completed by an equally skilled band. In addition to Simone Fiorletta's virtuoso guitar work we have second guitarist Davide Perruzza, keyboardist Andrea De Paoli, bassist Andrea Casali and drummer Marco Aiello who all form a formidable unit with instrumental prowess and the delivery to rival the genre's big names. The music for 'Worlds In Collision' was entirely written and arranged by Simone Fiorletta whilst each tracks vocalists were given the task of composing their own lyrics and vocal melodies. The album was recorded, mastered and mixed by Fiorletta at his studio; with the exception of the vocal tracks which were recorded at various studios of the singers own choice. Stylistically 'Worlds In Collision' includes many facets of modern Power-Prog Metal. There are moments of pure virtuosity but all the time there is the will of the song coming first and foremost. The listener will find numerous musical textures with moments of light and shade, dark and heavy themes and stunning musicianship which continue to reveal new depths on each subsequent listen. Yet No Gravity have managed to craft an album that is instantly listenable and despite the numerous vocalists the albums has its own distinct sound - ones that will appeal to fans of the leading names in prog/power metal as well as the more adventurous metal fan in general. With 'Worlds In Collision' No Gravity have produced a superb debut album and marks an exciting new chapter in the career of one of Italy's most respected musicians. Track Listing: 01. Sailing On Sight. 02. The Killer. 03. Can't Dream Anymore. 04. Voices From The Past. 05. Religious Beliefs. 06. I'm Bleeding. 07. Nowadays. 08. Touchin' My Enemy. 09. Unexpected Gift. Musicians: Simone Fiorletta – Acoustic and Electric Guitars. Davide Perruzza – Electric Guitars. Andrea De Paoli – Keyboards. Andrea Casali – Bass. Marco Aiello – Drums. Michele Luppi – Vocals. Andy Kuntz – Vocals. Emiliano Germani – Vocals. Fabio Lione – Vocals. Mark Basile – Vocals. Roberto Tiranti – Vocals. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/nogravityprog / www.myspace.com/simonefiorletta / www.twitter.com/nogravityprog. PromoPage: www.lionmusic.com/cd/worldsincollision.htm.   TOKYO BLADE RETURN A THOUSAND MEN STRONG: Tokyo Blade is back! Pioneers of the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal, Tokyo Blade present a searing new album entitled Thousand Men Strong showing them again at their very best. Lead guitarist & founder, Andy Boulton comments: "We are treating 'Thousand 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." The group added, "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 line-up of 2011 is as follows: Andy Boulton (guitar), Andy Wrighton (bass), John Wiggins (guitar), Steve Pierce (drums) and Nicolaj Ruhnow (vocals). The new album Thousand Men Strong is going to thrill the fans from the early days as well as younger people who love their Metal powerful, melodic and above all HEAVY! This summer, Tokyo Blade will perform at some of the most important European festivals. New Wave Of British Heavy Metal is as strong as ever before and as the name suggests a "Thousand men strong" will take a lot to be beat. Thousand Men Strong is going to be released March 18. Track list: 1. Black Abyss 2. Thousand Men Strong 3. Lunch-Case 4. Forged In Hell's Fire 5. No Conclusion 6. The Ambush 7. Killing Rays 8. Heading Down The Road 9. Condemned To Fire 10. Night Of The Blade. WebLink: www.tokyoblade.com.   NEW STAN BUSH SINGLE "HEAT OF THE BATTLE" AND MUSIC VIDEO: 2011, the 25-year anniversary of "The Touch" and of the original Transformers movie, Stan Bush has teamed up once again with songwriter Lenny Macaluso to come up with this high-energy rocker Heat of the Battle! With trademark Stan Bush vocals and searing guitars, this track is reminiscent of "The Touch"! Check out the cool new music video at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAxGLYEQ4jE. Please visit stanbush.com.   UFO LIVE ACROSS NORTH AMERICA: Additional dates for UFO's 2011 North American tour have just been revealed. The band will be touring North America in support of their greatest hits collection entitled "Best of a Decade" which is out now on SPV/Steamhammer. The East Coast leg of the tour will kick off May 11, 2011 at The Crazy Donkey in Farmingdale, NY. The following are a list of all confirmed dates as of now: May 5, 2011 - Farmingdale, NY @ The Crazy Donkey May 6, 2011 - Poughkeepsie, NY @ The Chance May 7, 2011 - West Springfield, VA @ Jaxx May 10, 2011 - New Hope, PA @ Havanna 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 15, 2011 - Londonberry, NH @ Tupelo Music Hall May 18, 2011 - Milwaukee, WI @ Shank Hall May 20, 2011 - Chicago, IL @ House of Blues May 21, 2011 - St Charles/Chicago, IL @ The Aracada Theater May 22, 2011 - Akron, OH @ The Tangier Expect a West Coast leg of the tour to be announced soon for this Fall. TUNESECURE TRIES TO PUSH MUSIC PIRACY UNDERGROUND: An Aussie start-up says it has the technology to hamper illegal downloads of pop music, but it may be too little too late for record labels. James Erwin, technical director of TuneSecure, said his software crawled the internet for every instance of file-sharing and compiled the data to be used to take action against offenders. "Every time somebody logs on to a P2P network, does a search and then downloads an album that is protected — your IP network is exposed," he told news.com.au. Mr Erwin said the program also targeted the hundreds of file locker websites used by the internet community to store pirated songs and albums. "We would find protected artists and albums on these particular services and request to have them removed, as well as constantly monitor the source in case somebody decides to upload the same album again," he said. Mr Erwin and his colleague Peter Cran say TuneSecure won't be able to stop illegal downloads entirely. Instead their goal is to push it back underground. "(We want) to suppress music piracy to the point where general mums and dads find it much more difficult to get pirated music," said Mr Erwin. "At the moment it's more of a convenience thing for the end user. They find an artist or title they like and put it into Google and usually in the top 10 results there's a website allowing you to download it illegally." Mr Erwin added the software wasn't designed to persecute everyday users. "I've seen it done before in the states, attacking and going after mums and dads and saying 'stop downloading music', that's the last thing we want to do. We want to find it at the source and using our tools and a bit of data that we can provide and assist record labels with finding where it originates from." However software such as TuneSecure may be too little too late for record labels who have been adapting to the reality of piracy for more than a decade. Elefant Traks manager Tim Levinson said many record companies couldn't be trusted with software that allowed them to pinpoint culprits. "I don't believe that the music industry is not wanting to go after people like mums and dads," he told news.com.au. "That's exactly the people they will be going after, the same as they have been doing for the last 10 years. In the digital age I do not believe that is entirely the best approach. It's not that the music industry doesn't have a point, it's just that the approach isn't winning people over. It always makes the music industry look really bad." Veteran music journalist and FBi Radio presenter Stuart Coupe said instead of trying to combat music piracy, record labels should be trying to integrate it into creative business models. "Is there a point in trying to stop it? In 2011, I think the jury is very much out on that," he told news.com.au. "The whole notion of the music industry has changed so dramatically in the last couple of years, I'm honestly, incredibly cynical about the ability of any structure or setup to stop illegal music downloading. I think the issue is more one of how does the 'music industry' come to terms with the reality that they are possibly spending too much time feeling sorry for themselves... instead of actually being creative and forward thinking in terms of how do we change our business models? How do we work around this reality that music is ostensibly free?" Mr Coupe, who runs his own label Laughing Outlaw Records, proudly admits to downloading pirated music and openly encourages his artists to give their music away for free. "Say you've got a new album, it's got 12 tracks on it, give five of them away," he suggested. "If people don't like those five they were never going to buy the other seven. Don't worry about it. Let people have it. Build up a fan base." Similar ideas have been tried and tested in recent years. Popular bands Nine Inch Nails and Radiohead made headlines when they offered new records online for free, or for whatever the listener decided to pay. More here: www.news.com.au/technology/tunesecure-to-push-music-pirates-underground.

 

 

Monday, February 07, 2011

ROCK GUITAR STAR GARY MOORE DIES AGED 58: Can you believe this? I have to say that I'm getting tired of reporting this kind of news as another true legend of rock passes away. Guitar legend Gary Moore - a giant in his field, both rock and blues master has died in his sleep while on holiday in Spain. This from BBC UK where the story broke: "Gary Moore was a guitarist with Thin Lizzy and was also acclaimed for his solo work, The renowned rock guitarist Gary Moore has died in a hotel room while on holiday in Spain. Moore, 58, originally from Belfast, was a former member of the legendary Irish group Thin Lizzy. Thin Lizzy manager Adam Parsons told the BBC he was found early on Sunday. Moore was originally drafted into Thin Lizzy by its late frontman Phil Lynott. He later gained acclaim for his solo work and was a former member of the Irish group Skid Row. The Northern Ireland guitarist was only 16 when he moved from Belfast to Dublin in 1969, to join Skid Row, which featured Lynott as lead vocalist. He was later brought into Thin Lizzy by Lynott to replace the departing Eric Bell, another guitarist from Northern Ireland. Lynott died in 1986 but a new line-up of Thin Lizzy continues to tour. Bell told the BBC on Sunday he was still "in shock" at Moore's death while on holiday in the Costa del Sol. "I still can't believe it," he said. "He was so robust, he wasn't a rock casualty, he was a healthy guy. He was a superb player and a dedicated musician." Scott Gorham of Thin Lizzy said it been a pleasure to share a stage with Moore. "Playing with Gary during the Black Rose era was a great experience, he was a great player and a great guy," he said. "I will miss him." Niall Stokes, the editor of the Irish music magazine, Hot Press, described Moore as a "genius". A message on Moore's official website says: "It is with deep sorrow and regret, that we have to announce that Gary Moore passed away while on holiday in Spain last night." The lead guitarist received critical acclaim for his work on the 1974 Thin Lizzy album, Nightlife, but would never be constrained by the music group format. A year earlier, he had released his first solo album Grinding Stone and his virtuoso playing was to make him a recognised artist in his own right. Although returning to Thin Lizzy briefly in the late 1970s, his solo work continued to garner interest and he also enjoyed UK chart success with Lynott, via singles Parisienne Walkways and Out In The Fields. Throughout his career, Moore was to embrace a range of genres including blues, metal and hard rock. He performed on stage with a range of major artists and released 20 studio albums. NewsLink: www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-12377862. I asked vocalist Glenn Hughes, a long time friend of Gary's about his reaction. Glenn stated: "I'm devastated...Gary was a Rock and Blues Icon...he played with no fear. We spent a lot of time together in the 80's. I have very fond memories of when Gazza was stayin' @ my house in LA…trust me, there was much love and laughter...And that's what I will remember...I'm truly shaken." Out there in Twitterland, others expressed their shock: Butch Walker - "Gary Moore died. One of my major guitar influences and heroes of young is gone to be with Phil Lynott... I want to cry right now." Steve Lukather - "God bless Gary Moore.. One of the greats and a real nice man." Glenn Hughes - "Devastated to hear of the passing of my friend Gary Moore...truly devastated...may he rest in God's Grace...GH." I was a fan of Gary's, just like so many other readers of this site. I'm saddened again to see the death of another rock legend. His Run For Cover and Wild Frontiers albums will remain my personal favourites, but with such depth to his musical legacy, it's hard to play favourites. The man was indeed a genius and is another tragic loss for the rock n roll community. R.I.P. Gary Moore.   MELODICROCK RECORDS - REVIEWS UPDATE: Before revealing some fresh MelodicRock Records updates and plans for the first half of 2011, I'd like to share some more great press that the releases so far have received and remind folks that these titles are available to buy direct from the MRR Store. It has been a hard sell getting four new names out into the MR scene, but the mission is far from over. Check out these great artists if you have not yet had the chance. Degreed - Life, Love, Loss - - www.glorydazemusic.com/articles.php?article_id=4286 "Love Life Loss is a fantastic album all up, and it will sit close to the top of the pile for 2010 for me, simply because their energy is irresistible, their lust for melody is unequalled, and they sound so '2010', if you know what I mean. Yes, I love the old style AOR as much as anyone who regularly visits this site, but if there is an excuse to get with the current day, then Degreed imprint into it your memory bank and reiterate that the 70's and 80's decades were so last century! If you need to get qualified in any way possible, spend an hour with Degreed. You'll come away well qualified in modern day melodic hard rock. Monstrous stuff. Check it out." - www.seaoftranquility.org/reviews.php?op=showcontent&id=10194 (4/5) "With a vocalist who sounds a lot like Joey Tempest of fellow Swedish band Europe, Degreed makes upbeat melodic hard rock that gets better with each listen. Robin Ericsson may have been a top-six finalist in 2008 on Swedish Idol (that country's equivalent of American Idol) but he's also a rocker who was able to use that national spotlight to help his band reach new levels of creativity. Just listen to songs like "Just Imagine," "Story of Life" and "My Fall" — all juicy pieces of ear candy that bridge the musical divide between 1986 and 2010. Fans of Europe will obviously eat this stuff up, but so will listeners who value smart and snappy songs that make them feel good. What's more, in a classy nod to one of Degreed's influences, the band presents a remarkably faithful version of Steve Perry's "Captured by the Moment," in which Ericsson disguises his voice to sound like Journey's most famous singer." - hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/degreed-life-love-loss (9/10) "This album is amazingly well crafted, especially considering it's a debut album. This is a young band that sounds like they've been playing together for decades. They have had some success in Europe and now it's time for the rest of the world to hear what they've been missing. The thing that's great about Degreed is that, although the songs are catchy, you can't escape the fantastic musical talent of these five guys. It's easy to just say that they are good: good band, good singing, good musicianship, good songs, good album, etc. But it's more complicated than that because they have big hooks and catchy choruses reminiscent of '70s and '80s AOR and melodic rock and yet they sound so fresh and modern." - www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=5132&type=2&lang=EN "Life Love Loss" displays a mature picture and a fine sample of melodic rock sounds that balances on the glorious 80's heydays and the modern vibes of the 21st century. I would, also, add that Degreed offers a unique, remarkable suggestion for all those out there who are not satisfied by the plain reproduction of the old musical patterns. A well-crafted and rounded album that manages to attract both the old school fans and the newcomers of a seemingly resurrected genre. The whole artwork of the album is splendid." - www.hardline-magazin.de (8.5/10)   Full "Life, Love, Loss" Album Details & Audio Preview   All I Know - Vanity Kills - - www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=5073&type=2&lang=EN "All I Know seems to know where they are going and naturally they are not afraid of displaying their influences that stem from the hard rock genre of the late 80s. "Vanity Kills" includes upbeat songs with a sensational production and a qualitative level of compositions that will make all the fans of the melodic rock sound feel proud of their favorite music. In addition, there are a couple of mind-blowing songs in there –like "Rain" and "Asphyxia"- that could have easily been big hits. Especially, the former bears the mixing skills of the veteran producer Beau Hill. One thing is certain: keep in mind the name of All I Know…I am pretty sure that the future looks promising for them! Despite the band's young age, they are quite flawless in their overall performance…" - www.seaoftranquility.org/reviews.php?op=showcontent&id=10228 (4/5) "Belgium's All I Know spent lots of time listening to their parents' record collections while growing up. The slick influences of Def Leppard, Poison and Bon Jovi can be heard throughout the band's 39-minute debut Vanity Kills. Just look at some of the song titles on this thing: "All Night Long," "Bad Boy," "Into Your Heart," "I Wanna Rock You," "Sweet 17," "Hopes and Dreams." You can almost smell the Aqua Net from those alone, even though the flat-haired guys in All I Know look like they belong in some punk-pop-emo band. Those listeners who still need an Eighties fix every once in awhile will be thrilled upon hearing this album. "Asphyxia" wouldn't sound out of place on one of those big-hair ballad compilations and a new remix of "Rain" by producer Beau Hill opens with a wailing guitar solo that recalls Poison's "I Won't Forget You" and transitions into a chorus worthy of classic Winger." - chambersofrock.blogspot.com/2011/01/all-i-know-vanity-kills-album-review.html (4/5) "They are very talented indeed, generally a lot of quick and punchy three minute songs with many hooks, loads of melody. This is a slick, hook laden release that as I've said throughout my review that has impressed me and if you like punchy, up tempo pop rockers and AOR in general, you should like this." - www.hardline-magazin.de (9.5/10)   Full "Vanity Kills" Album Details & Audio Preview   Violet Sun - Loneliness In Supremacy - - seaoftranquility.org/reviews.php?op=showcontent&id=10235 (4/5) "Fledgling MelodicRockRecords.com takes a break from releasing superior -- well -- melodic rock to issue its first metal release. Italy's Violet Sun is a powerful symphonic-metal band formed by vocalist/multi-instrumentalist Dario Grillo (Platens, Thy Majestie) and singer Alessandra Amata (Catania) that still manages to contain key signatures of this young label's other releases: smart arrangements, stellar production and melodies aplenty. In fact, Violet Sun considers its debut album, Loneliness in Supremacy, a hybrid of classical, opera, heavy metal, Eastern, progressive and AOR music. Amata is blessed with a natural voice, which shines Violet Sun away from gothic-metal corners and gives the band a broader reach. Officially a trio, Violet Sun also features a sax player (with an unexpectedly moving performance on "Falling in Love") and an opera choir. But don't expect anything too over the top here. "Cross the Line" and "Pray on the Grave" come closest to the traditional female-fronted metal sound, a la vintage Nightwish or Epica."   Full "Loneliness In Supremacy" Album Details & Audio Preview   Fenrik Lane - 317 - - www.seaoftranquility.org/reviews.php?op=showcontent&id=10170 (4.5/5) "Here are 14 crisp and crunchy songs performed by seasoned veterans, polished to modern-rock perfection. The lyrics are smart and unexpected, the arrangements veer from the genre's tried-and-true, and the melodies won't leave your brain. Ever. The catchiest track is "Diamonds in the Waste," an anthem that bridges U2, Green Day, Bon Jovi and The All-American Rejects. On the other hand, the most unexpected of the bunch is a rocked-up version of dance-pop diva Rihanna's haunting "Russian Roulette." Other highlights include the grand opener "Megalomania," the soaring ballad "Cover Your Eyes" (which shows off the trio's harmonies) and the glorious "Hello." MelodicRockRecords.com honcho Andrew McNeice isn't kidding when he claims the "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." I'm not sure about the band's name and 317's album cover featuring a landscape of headless, naked mannequins, but I'll gladly overlook details like that in exchange for 56-and-a-half minutes of melodic-rock bliss." - www.hardline-magazin.de (8/10) - www.glorydazemusic.com/articles.php?article_id=4259 "There are fourteen tracks onboard, and all are relatively short and sweet - in that 3 to 4 minute bracket. Look, I've said it time and time again on this website.. and that is: I just love all things musical to do with Norway. Whether it's the prog metal scene with the awesome Pagans Mind, or all manner of pop/AOR over the years, you can now add Fenrik Lane to that list. Though to my ears, these guys would've been better suited to releasing '317' between the 1998-2002 era, though in saying that, they could well have been lost in the shuffle during that so-called 'nu breed' era too, and considering many top bands lost their contracts after one or two albums, the scrapheap could well have beckoned. Good on them for keeping the flame going, and nice to see them still in action a decade on. Fans of modern pop/rock should investigate, and if Poets Of The Fall and/or Melee are on your playlist already, then Fenrik Lane will make a welcome addition."   Full "317" Album Details & Audio Preview   MELODIC BRIEFS: Loverboy has been invited by legendary producer, Bob Rock (Michael Buble, Metallica, Motley Crue) to record two new tracks at The Warehouse Studio in Vancouver, Canada. "Heartbreaker", a classic Loverboy rocker and "Tomorrow", a powerful ballad were rehearsed, performed, recorded all in an amazing two day marathon. Stay tuned for release dates.... WebLink: www.loverboyband.com/Home.html. Michael Brandvold states: "Digging through my collection of audio clips here is a file to enjoy. I will be posting many of the files I have gathered over the last 15 years. Please leave comments and let me know what you think. Exact date of this interview is not know, but it would be after the reunion tour sometime in 1997. Gene and Paul are live in the studio promoting the release of the soon to be released album Carnival of Souls. Listen to Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley read traffic reports for Minneapolis and St. Paul, tell jokes and much more. Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of Kiss live in the studio at 93X KXXR Minnesota. – 41 Minutes: michaelbrandvold.com/blog/2011/02/gene-simmons-and-paul-stanley-on-93x-kxxr-minnesota-vintage-audio/ Indie melodic rocker Kevin Lee updates: "Here's an interview I recently did with chicagosrock.com: www.chicagosrock.com/chicagosrock_launch_issue_015.htm." 7th heaven open for Bon Jovi again? "Many of you have been emailing us to tell us that Bon Jovi is once again looking for an opening act. We heard about it and thought we accomplished that goal already however so many of you have been writing and asking us to submit so we decided to once again enter. We just got selected to the final 24 bands and now it's again a voting process for the next week. You can vote once each day. Good news is that they don't make you listen to all the bands over and over again. If you want to see 7th heaven open for Bon Jovi again next month go here and vote and ask your friends to join in on the craziness. Here we go again: kickbacks.iknowjack.com/asp3/ContestDetail.aspx?AID=128131. Yngwie Malmsteen on Late Night With Jimmy Fallon: www.latenightwithjimmyfallon.com/video/thursday-february-3-2011/1283990 (Link Note: sadly this is yet another American Network decision that the WWW is only limited to the USA. Lame.) FORGET ABOUT BUYING MUSIC ONLINE -- PEOPLE DON'T EVEN WANT TO STEAL MUSIC: By Matt Rosoff: www.sfgate.com. Music piracy used to be a big deal, but nowadays most pirates don't even bother. Envisional, which helps companies prevent brand fraud, counterfeiting, and piracy, was recently commissioned by NBC Universal to look at the use of copyrighted material on the Internet. The company looked at 10,000 files managed by the PublicBT BitTorrent tracker, and found that only 2.9% of them were music. That's way behind porn videos (35.8%), feature films (35.2%), and TV shows (12.7%). Even generic non-gaming software sparked more interest, with 4.2% of all pirated files. In other words, people most don't care about music enough to pirate it. Although at least music came in ahead of anime. The decline in music piracy is partly because iTunes did a lot to make digital music easy, removing one incentive to use file-sharing services like Napster (in the old days) and LimeWire (more recently). There's no question that iTunes moves a lot of music: it sold 5 billion songs just between June 2008 and February 2010, and the Beatles sold more than five million songs through the service in less than two months. Then again, the Beatles haven't made a new recording in more than 40 years. Who else is selling millions of downloads per month? Here's another way of looking at it: maybe the CD declines of the last few years have nothing to do with piracy or the move to digital. Maybe recorded music is going the way of sheet music in the early 20th century. The 56-page PDF of the full study is available here. CARMINE APPICE NOW OFFERING DIGITAL DOWNLOADS: Rock legend and Sabian's world's greatest rock drummer, Carmine Appice is now offering rare tracks and impossible to find, out of production albums available as digital downloads directly from Carmine's personal web site. Some of Carmine's best performances new and old are available with a brand new track from King Kobra! All proceeds from this track will be donated to the Ronnie James Dio Cancer Fund. Other rare albums include "BBA (Beck, Bogert & Appice) Live in London" recorded in 1973, Carmine's solo release, "Rockers", "Party Tested" the 1980 release by DNA (Derringer & Appice) and Mothers Army "Planet Earth" with Joe Lynn Turner, Jeff Watson and Bob Daisley. More tracks and full albums are going to be added to the continually expanding catalog each month. All tracks are just 99¢ each and full album downloads offer a reduced price from the single track downloads price. Some of these tracks are not on iTunes, or Amazon, they are only available on Carmine's web site. Visit: www.CarmineAppice.net.

 

 

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). The Band: Niklas Swedentorp – Lead Vocals Michael Larsson – Guitars and Backing Vocals Anders "Kebbe" Lindmark – Bass Perra Johanson – Drums Matti Eklund – Keyboards and vocals 1 Minute Audio Samples: · Heroes · Run For Your Life · One In A Million · Six Feet Under · Time · Save Our Souls · The King · Fate · Seven Wonders · Angel Eyes · Heading For Tomorrow · Out From The Cold Coming in 2011 from Escape Music: Paul Young: Chronicles Shadowman "Watching Over You" Produced by Steve Morris and Mixed by Tommy Hansen Tom Galley The Creator of Phenomena: "Blind Faith part II" on vocals (James Christian, Rob Moratti, Chris Antblad, plus many more Produced by Tom Galley) Illium: Genetic Memory Mixed by Tommy Hansen David Mark Pearce: "StrangeAng3ls" featuring on lead vocals John Payne (ASIA) and Goran Edman. Chris Ousey new album Produced by Mike Slamer and Co-produced by Tommy Denander Alliance: new album in progress. Ozone: Steve Overland and Chris Ousey in progress. Departure: new album in progress. Overland: new album in progress. Human Temple: in progress. Gary Barden: in progress Produced by Michael Voss. Saracen: new concept album based on Marilyn Monroe life story, featuring guest appearance Robin Beck as Marilyn.

 

 

Friday, February 04, 2011

MIKE PORTNOY WASTES NO TIME POST-DREAM THEATER: Drummer Mike Portnoy is not working with just one 'supergroup', but two! Portnoy let slip via Twitter today one detail about another project he is working on for a major label this year - "Very excited about a new project I'm working on w/ one my fav singers in the world: my bro Sir Russell Allen...wait til you hear this sh*t!!!" Yep, wait until you hear who the guitarist is. I hope to provide further details soon, but the rest of the high-profile line-up is very interesting indeed. Meanwhile Portnoy is also recording with Steve Morse, Neil Morse, and Dave LaRue for a new album - under the watchful eye of producer Peter Collins (Rush). AOR HEAVEN – THE APRIL RELEASES: Big Life - Big Life / Release date: 29.04.2011 - Big Life is a new project featuring the immense talents of the UK's melodic rock genius, Steve Newman (Newman) and ex-Praying Mantis frontman, Mark Thompson-Smith. Steve Newman's reputation in the Melodic Rock circuit is impressive - with eight immense Newman albums released in the last decade, the latest being the highly acclaimed The Art Of Balance. Add to this his work on other albums with artists such as Atlantic, Steve Overland, Eden, AOR Project, Frozen Rain, Far Cry, Grand Illusion and Phenomena. Mark Thompson-Smith re-emerges from the shadows after a lengthy period out of the limelight to more than demonstrate that time has not dulled his impressive vocal powers. Best known as the singer with Praying Mantis in the early 90's and as guest vocalist in The Sweet in 2005, he has also featured as frontman for various 80's UK bands such as Idol Rich, Touche and Flight 19. The early 90's also saw Mark working in America with Mike Walsh (Departure) and legendary keyboardist Dave Rosenthal (Rainbow/Red Dawn/Billy Joel/Infinity), spending two exciting years performing and recording the later released and now much sought after solo album, A Far Cry From New Jersey. Returning to the UK in 1993, as the grunge band tsunami swept away the US melodic rock scene, Mark joined Praying Mantis recording the impressive "Only The Children Cry" EP and completed a successful tour of Japan before leaving the band in 1994. During the years, he appeared a couple of times as backing vocalist on various Newman albums. The Sweet experience being short lived as the band required a bass playing vocalist, it fired up Mark's renewed passion for singing further and so he sought out Steve Newman to embark on a brand new musical adventure....and certainly found it in Big Life! The guys are joined by Rob McEwen, the outstanding drumming talent on the last three Newman albums, and all recordings have once again taken place at "The Blue Room" studios in England. Soundfiles in advance: Better Man / Close To You / Dying Day. WebLink: www.big-life.co.uk / www.myspace.com/biglifeuk.   xx After Hours - Against The Grain / Release date: 29.04.2011 - After Hours was formed in 1987 by John Francis (vocals), Tim Payne (lead guitar), Martin Walls (bass guitar), Mark Addison (drums) and Rick Young (keyboards). Soon after, the band recorded the album "Take Off". After a showcase in London's Marquee Club the band's management inked a deal for this record with BMG Ariola based in Munich, Germany. The band was flown out to Germany to do a photo shoot and interviews with magazines prior to the release of Take Off in 1988, they also secured a sponsorship deal with Adidas an did photo shoots for them, promoting their new range of sports clothing also called Take off. From that point on the promotion in Germany, England and Scandinavia was relentless, concerts in England and Scandinavia, Radio interviews and an appearance on Germany's version of top of the pops, finishing the year recording a live concert for Metal Hammers Christmas Party Video in Bochum, Germany. The band then started writing the follow up album but had to look for a new keyboard player, because Rick Young had left. They were put in contact with Andy Nye who had played keyboards for Michael Schenker, he met the band and agreed to join. After Hours then embarked on writing the second album. Within a few months the band had gone into Rockfield Studios in Wales and started to demo the new songs. The management at this point had secured a new deal with a record company called Global Satellite based in Munich. Global then took over and wanted the band in Munich, at their studios to record the second album. At this point three of the band members decided to leave, Martin Walls, Mark Addison and Andy Nye. Martin emigrated to Canada, Mark went to university and Andy moved on to another project. This then left John and Tim to complete the recording of the second album. So with help from the producer, Mal Luker and his staff at the studio, they set about making the self titled album Afterhours. This proved very stressful to John and Tim and after a stint recording single ideas for the American market at a recording studio in Chipping Norton, England, They both decided to call it a day. The album was released in 1992. February 14, 2008. A chance meeting of Martin Walls, Tim Payne and John Francis, materialized into the reformation of After Hours, after agreeing to write and record a song for old time's sake, it seemed after recording the song it unearthed a new passion in each of them, they wanted to write and record a new album which came from their heart and souls, with no interference from producers, record companies and management. And so the task of writing and then recording the new ideas started. They invited old friend's, Chris Pope on drums and Sean McMenemy on keyboards and guitar to help, and the new After Hours was born. The new album is called "Against the Grain". It's a mixture of sounds running through a theme of well put together songs, a strong vocal performance and masterful guitar work. It was recorded at Aubitt Recording Studios in Southampton England. The engineer was Rob Aubrey and the album was co-produced by After Hours and Rob Aubrey, who the band now fondly regard as their sixth member. "Against The Grain" will be released on German label AOR Heaven on 29.04.2011 whilst the "Take Off" album was already re-issued in 2010 on AOR Heaven Classix. Line-up: John Francis – vocals, Tim Payne - lead guitar, Martin Walls – bass, Chris Pope – drums, Sean McMenemy - keys and guitars. Soundfiles in advance: Let It Go / Stand Up / Turn On Your Radio. WebLink: www.afterhoursrocks.com.   xx TEN BOOST ONLINE PRESENCE: People can start to log on to the official Ten MySpace page with photos and a special section called Ten Direct were the fans every week will put a member of Ten on the hot seat and have him answer their questions. This week John Halliwell... And on the 14th Feb - www.ten-official.com gets launched with the New Video world premiering and also the longest ever Interview of Gary Hughes it wil be an expose and it will be answering all the questions people have been asking about Bob Catley albums, why the long wait till now and why there was no news and a lot more. Meanwhile, check out the new video from the new Stormwarning album Endless Symphony:   ROYAL HUNT REUNITES WITH DC COOPER & MORE MELODIC BRIEFS: After repeated requests from their fans and concert promoters alike, Royal Hunt and their former lead singer DC Cooper mutually decided to reunite - for a very few selected dates – in order to perform the entire "Paradox" (their first concept album from 1997) and several of "everybody's all-time favourite" songs from that period. For information about the upcoming tour dates visit www.royalhunt.com. Rush are planning to totally remix their 2002 album Vapor Trails. Talking exclusively to Classic Rock, guitarist Alex Lifeson revealed: "We were never happy with the production. Perhaps we should have taken more time over the record. But now we've got the chance to improve things. There will be no re-recording, just a remix". The famed Canadian trio are also working on songs for their new album, Clockwork Angels, due later in the year: www.classicrockmagazine.com/news/rush-to-overhaul-2002-album. Legendary rock singer John Waite checked in with Hardrock Haven to discuss his brand new solo release Rough & Tumble; writing and recording with Matchbox 20's Kyle Cook; specific tracks like 'If You Ever Get Lonely' and 'Mr. Wonderful;' upcoming tour plans and who his touring band is; looking back on hits like 'When I See You Smile' and 'Missing You;' and a whole lot more. To hear the audio interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/john-waite. On this weeks Hair Metal Haven Chris Nelson will be talking to Norway's finest the Stage Dolls. Also on the show this weeks 18 & Life featuring 18 personal questions is with Tigertailz bass guitarist Sarah Firebrand. Also on the show 2 tracks from the forthcoming Trinity album by Eden's Curse. 17.00-19.00gmt Saturday 5th February only on www.phoenixradio.co.uk. MELODIC ROCK FANZINE: Frontiers Records is proud to present the new issue of Melodic Rock Fanzine. The 42nd release of the label's 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. This new issue includes reviews and interviews of Mr. Big, Ten, Benedictum, Scheepers, Moritz, Danger Zone, TNT, Shakra, Bad Habit, Oliver Weers, Miss Behaviour, John Waite, Hurtsmile... and more! Electronic readble version of the magazine is available on the Frontiers official site and here. INTENSE MILLENNIUM RECORDS BRINGS BACK CRY HOLY: Intense Millennium Records is very proud to announce the latest addition to their expanding roster by way of Seattle/Spokane Washington's very own Melodic Rock act Cry Holy! Cry Holy is a six piece Christian rock band with a sound reminiscent of many of those great Melodic Rock acts we have grown to love such as Survivor, Journey and Foreigner yet some how finding a way to forge out a sound that is all their own. They believe strongly that you can provide a Christian message in the music without compromising the music for the message. But don't think this is just your normal Christian rock record full of hymnals and ballads this is some knock your socks off rock n roll. Having 2 full length albums under their belts to date in the last 10 years, Ten from Two (2001) and AlieNation (2005) the band is posed to bring back the rock and take the Christian music world by storm. Up first in the bands new found partnership with Intense Millennium Records is a special completely remastered and expanded version of AlieNation entitled 'AlieNation Revisited'. The band was never entirely pleased with the first pressing of this release and has enlisted the help of none other then JK Northrup (XYZ) to completely remaster and expand this version of Alienation. JK Northrup has become a renowned producer in the world of melodic rock having worked with such artists as Ted Poley, Terry Ilous and Paul Shortino to name a few. So if you think you heard this album before, think again, this album has been completely re-tracked and remastered to compete with the best Melodic Rock acts out there today! If that's not enough for you the band really wanted their fans to get reintroduced to the band and their music, and will be offering another second disc chocked full of previously unreleased music and videos some of which have never seen the light of day, until now. This 2 Disc Special Deluxe Edition of 'AlieNation Revisited' will only be available to those that pre-order the 2 disc version. For Full Details visit: www.intensemillennium.com. Full Track Listing ­ AlieNation Revisited 1. Tommy [Extended piano version] (Previously Unreleased) 2. America The Beautiful 3. Alienation 4. Strangers To This World 5. Everlasting Love 6. My Lord 7. Shine 8. Count On Me 9. Salvation (Previously Unreleased) 10. Extraterrestrial Suite 11. History 12. He Lives In You (AlieNation outtake) 13. Turnin' Around (AlieNation outtake) 14. I Wanna Be Free 15 . Masquerade Ball. Exclusive Bonus Disc: 1. Hope and Strength (previously unreleased) 2. Shadow of My Wings 3. Life With an Angel 4. On The Move 5. Radio Interview (KSMS Spirit 105.3) 6. Exhale Videos: 1. I Wanna Be Free (Video - Live) 2. Salvation (Video) 3. Come On / Shout (Video - Live). SITE UPDATES: One more new Review added today - ColdSpell's new Out From The Cold release. Read Review. The MRX Members Only Area has been updated with the following features: Jeff Paris - The Complete Lucky This Time Tracks - the original release + 2 Euro BTs and the additional 4 Japanese BTs. Rick Springfield - Live USA 2004 (-ish) Big City - Pre-Harlan Cage Demos (1992-93)(7 Tracks). Join MRX now.

 

 

Early bird tickets are available NOW from www.thefirefest.com   Firefest and Fireworks Magazine are pleased to announce that we've decided to repeat the same format as last years show. It will take place on October 21st, 22nd & 23rd, with three bands playing on the Friday night and seven bands each on the Saturday and Sunday. Yet again we think we've managed to put together an event with a great deal of variety which has strength right through the line-up, with many unexpected artists pledging to make their long-awaited return to live action or making their first ever visits to the UK. We're also pleased to announce that we now have the full support of a new sponsor: Classic Rock's offshoot magazine Classic Rock Presents: AOR. The great new magazine will be helping us to promote the festival. Many thanks to Geoff Barton, Chris Ingham, Dave Ling and all the staff at Future Publishing for their very welcome support. Venue and dates Firefest will take place on Friday 21st October 2011 at the Trent University Students Union building in Nottingham, and on Saturday and Sunday 22nd & 23rd October 2011 at our regular venue of Rock City in Nottingham. Line-up Friday 21st October (Top to bottom) JIMI JAMISON Even though we try to vary the line-up from one year to the next, it's become a kind of tradition to ask back immediately any artist who makes a huge impression, and last year the general consensus was that the former Survivor singer Jimi Jamison made the biggest impression of all. With a band that will hopefully be the same as last year (availability permitting), Jimi and guitarist Tommy Denander will be playing more classics from the Survivor and Jimi Jamison back catalogue. TERRY BROCK After his amazing performance last year with Strangeways we have great pleasure in welcoming Terry Brock back as a solo artist. With a backing band consisting of our good friends Adam Holland (guitar), Gerard Zappa (bass), Mike Morales (drums) and Craig Pullman (keys) from Valentine, Terry will be playing a set plucked from his solo career that will no doubt include a hefty slice of last year's well-received 'Diamond Blue' album. Terry will be making his first solo appearance in the UK since 2001. HOUSTON With their debut album picking up many outstanding reviews from around the globe it should come as no surprise to see young Swedish duo Houston on the bill. Proving that classic AOR can be written and played just as well by youngsters as established older artists, Hampus 'Hank' Erix and Freddie Allen will be bringing their touring band to kick off the party. Saturday 22nd October (Top to bottom) WARRANT One of the most popular artists of the late 80s MTV boom, the US band have sold 10 million copies worldwide of their classic albums, including 'Dirty Rotten Stinking Filthy Rich', 'Cherry Pie' and 'Dog Eat Dog'. With original members Joey Allen (guitars), Jerry Dixon (bass), Steven Sweet (drums) and Erik Turner (guitars), along with ex-Lynch Mob singer Robert Mason who's been fronting the band since 2008, they'll be making their first appearance on UK soil since their support slot to Dave Lee Roth in the early 90s. STEVE AUGERI The ex-Journey singer makes a welcome return to Firefest as a solo artist. Steve Augeri will have his established backing band of Adam Holland, Gerard Zappa, Mike Morales and Craig Pullman (all ex-Valentine) and will be playing plenty of Journey favourites along with a handful of songs from his soon to be released solo album. He's sure to be a guaranteed crowd pleaser. STRANGEWAYS Another band who played last year, this time out the popular UK/US alliance Strangeways will be playing the whole of their 'Walk In The Fire' album along with other songs from 'Native Sons' that they didn't play last time. Terry Brock, Ian Stewart, Jim Drummond and the guys enjoyed their time on stage so much last year that they can't wait to come back and do it again. JEFF PARIS The popular US singer/songwriter is making his first visit back to the UK as a solo artist since he played at the first Gods festival in 1993. He has a new album in the works with guitarist Tommy Denander, and Tommy will be assembling a top notch band to play a cross section of his impressive back catalogue. Also, with his first two mid-80s classic AOR albums ('Race To Paradise' and 'Wired Up') due for re-issue this year, what better time is there for him to make a welcome return? SILENT RAGE We're delighted to announce that LA melodic hard rock band Silent Rage will be joining us for their first UK show in many years. Jesse Damon (guitars/vocals), Mark Hawkins (guitars/vocals), E.J. Curse (bass/vocals) and Rodney Pino (drums) will be cherry picking the best songs from their four album career, and as many of the Firefest crew have seen them before we can guarantee that they'll be one of the best and most professional bands of the weekend. VEGA Currently causing a stir with their amazing debut album 'Kiss Of Life', Vega were a no brainer for this years festival. Consisting of ex-Kick/Eden vocalist Nick Workman, drummer Dan Chantry and songwriting brothers James and Tom Martin (who've written songs for recent albums by House Of Lords, Khymera, From The Inside, First Signal & Issa), Vega will bring their catchy modern slant on traditional AOR to our main stage. TALON US band Talon should be no strangers to anyone who's attended Firefest and Gods festivals over the years. The classy hard rock band will again grace our main stage, this time fronted by new singer Shawn Pelata (Line Of Fire), who joins Jim Kee (guitar), Phil Keller (bass), Kory Voxen (guitar) and John Parker (drums) to get things under way in Rock City. Sunday 23rd October (Top to bottom) UNRULY CHILD It is with great pleasure that we can announce Unruly Child as our headliners on the Sunday night. The classic US band featuring Bruce Gowdy (guitars), Guy Allison (keys), Larry Antonino (bass), Jay Schellen (drums) and legendary vocalist Marcie Free, will be playing an ultra-rare show and certainly their first outside of the US. With a set that will be almost entirely taken from their legendary 1992 debut album and great 2010 comeback disc 'Worlds Collide', this will be their only European show this year. CONEY HATCH The inclusion of the 80s Toronto-based hard rock band Coney Hatch is one that has everyone connected with Firefest extremely excited. Playing their first ever show in the UK, the reformed original line-up of Carl Dixon (vocals/guitar), Andy Curran (vocals/bass), Steve Shelski (lead guitar) and Dave 'Thumper' Ketchum (drums) will be playing a long overdue set taken from their three albums 'Coney Hatch', 'Outa Hand' and 'Friction'. MITCH MALLOY The ever popular Nashville singer/songwriter Mitch Malloy will be making a return visit to our main stage after many requests to bring him back. The DVD of his 2008 Firefest set has proven to be one of our most popular and his regular visits to the UK over the years have kept his fan base growing. Mitch is currently recording his new album, which he says should be in the style of his classic debut, so it should be on sale at Firefest and he will be playing several songs from it as well as some from his 1992 album. KANE ROBERTS Perhaps one of our biggest surprises this time out, former Alice Cooper guitarist and renowned solo artist Kane Roberts hasn't played live much in the last few years so we're very honoured he agreed to do this show. With the guys from Talon as his backing band, Kane will be doing a set based mostly around songs from his popular 1991 solo album 'Saints & Sinners' along with one or two surprises. Kane also hopes to have an EP of new music available on the day. ALIEN One of the leading lights of the Scandi-AOR boom of the late 80s, the Swedish band gained cult status when their 1st self-titled album was released in 1988 (a different version was released the following year for the rest of Europe/US). They continued through several line-up changes, releasing albums up to 2005, but none had the same impact as the debut. The original line-up of Jim Jidhed (vocals), Tony Borg (guitar), Ken Sandin (bass), Jimmy Wandroph (keys) and Toby Tarrach (drums) will be playing their debut album in its entirety. WHITE WIDDOW Having had their self-titled debut album favourably reviewed throughout the world media, we have the great pleasure of announcing White Widdow as the first Australian band ever to play at Firefest. Comprising of Enzo Almanzi (guitar), Trent Wilson (bass), Jim Nash (drums), Xavier Millis (keys) and regular Firefest attendee Jules Millis on vocals, White Widdow will be bringing their unashamedly 80s melodic rock to our main stage. FARCRY Probably an unknown quantity to most, US melodic rockers Farcry created quite a stir when they played at Melodicrockfest in Chicago a while ago and have been the subject of a campaign by some of our UK friends who saw them at the show. Having released their well-received debut album 'High Gear' in 2009, Mark Giovi (vocals), Pete Fry (guitar), John Leonardis (bass) and Chris Ryan (drums) will get things off to a great start on the Sunday. Tickets & Prices Ticket prices are as follows: Friday - £25 (Stand alone show limited to 600 tickets – not included in the early bird special) Saturday - £55  Sunday - £55  Postage at £1 extra per order  Day of Show (Saturday and Sunday only!) £60 Early Bird Special We will be selling 300 weekend tickets (Saturday and Sunday together) for £99, a saving of £11. If you're bringing a partner get in early and save £22! After the 300 tickets are gone prices for Saturday and Sunday will revert to £55 each, £110 for both days. Early bird tickets are available NOW from www.thefirefest.com 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 Magazine 10 Dunnock Close Offerton  Stockport SK2 5 XD 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 Firefest is sponsored by Classic Rock Presents:AOR, Blackstar Amplification, AOR Heaven, ARFM & Rock It Magazine. Firefest 2011 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!

 

 

Thursday, February 03, 2011

STEVE LUKATHER AND TOTO BOTH ON THE ROAD IN 2011: Eternal Road Dog Steve Lukather has a full year ahead with solo and Toto touring plans. The dates are as follows - and from all reports, both bands are at the top of their game:   Solo Dates - 04 February 2011 Katalin and all that Jazz , Uppsala (Sweden) 05 February 2011 Nalen , Stockholm (Sweden) 06 February 2011 Rockefeller , Oslo (Norway) 07 February 2011 Tradgar´n , Gothenburg (Sweden) 08 February 2011 Kulturbolaget (KB) , Malmo (Sweden) 10 February 2011 Portalen , Greve (Denmark) 11 February 2011 New Theatre , Horsens/Jutland (Denmark) 12 February 2011 Kick , Kristiansand (Norway) 15 February 2011 Proxima , Warsaw (Poland) 17 February 2011 Conrad Sohm , Dornbirn (Austria) 18 February 2011 Posthof , Linz (Austria) 19 February 2011 Vereinshaus , 39022 Algund (near Merano) (Italy) 20 February 2011 Magazzini Generali , Milan (Italy) 22 February 2011 KUFA , Kufstein (Tirol) (Austria) 23 February 2011 Lucema , Prague (Czech Republic) 24 February 2011 Fabrik , Ostrava (Czech Republic) 25 February 2011 Szene , Vienna (Austria) 26 February 2011 Majestic , Bratislava (Slovakia) 27 February 2011 Rockhaus , Salzburg (Austria) 01 March 2011 Moonwalker , Aarburg (Switzerland) 02 March 2011 Muhle Hunzigen , Rubigen, near Berne (Switzerland) 03 March 2011 Treibhaus , Innsbruck (Austria) 04 March 2011 Orpheum , Graz (Austria) 05 March 2011 A38 , Budapest (Hungary) 08 March 2011 La Laiterie , Strasbourg (France) 09 March 2011 Ninkasi , Lyon (France) 10 March 2011 Bikini , Toulouse (France) 11 March 2011 Rock Star Live , Bilbao (Spain) 12 March 2011 Carpa Municipal , San Javier (Spain) 13 March 2011 Sala Heineken , Madrid (Spain) 15 March 2011 Atak , Enschede (Holland) 16 March 2011 Boerderij , Zoetermeer (Holland) 17 March 2011 Assembly Hall , Leamington Spa (United Kingdom) 18 March 2011 Club Academy , Manchester (United Kingdom) 19 March 2011 Picturedrome , Holmfirth (United Kingdom) 20 March 2011 Village Venue , Dublin (Ireland) Toto Dates - 16 May 2011 Shi Kokaido , Nagoya (Japan) 17 May 2011 Kagekiza , Kanazawa (Japan) 19 May 2011 Archaic Hall , Osaka (Japan) 20 May 2011 Archaic Hall , Osaka (Japan) 23 May 2011 Pacifico , Yokohama (Japan) 24 May 2011 Budokan , Tokyo (Japan) 21 June 2011 Forest National , Bruxelles (Belgium) 23 June 2011 Heineken Music Hall , Amsterdam (Holland) 24 June 2011 Heineken Music Hall , Amsterdam (Holland) 26 June 2011 HMV Hammersmith Apollo , London (United Kingdom) 27 June 2011 Le Zenith , Paris (France) 28 June 2011 Halle Tony Garnier , Lyon (France) 30 June 2011 KB Hallen , Copenhagen (Denmark) 03 July 2011 Riihimakirock , Riihimaki / Helsinki (Finland) 10 July 2011 Open Air , Vejle (Denmark) 12 July 2011 Stadtpark Freilichtbühne , Hamburg (Germany) 14 July 2011 Jazz an der Donau , Straubing (Germany) 15 July 2011 Klosterhof Wiblingen , Ulm (Germany) 17 July 2011 Castello Scaligero Di Villafranca , Verona (Italy)   FM ANNOUNCE LIVE DATES IN EUROPE: Following their appearances at 2010's Download and Hard Rock Hell, FM have got the festival bug and the old campervan will see some mileage this year as the band travel across Europe to perform at some of the highest profile festivals around. There will also be a long overdue return to FM strongholds in Spain and Holland, dates with Journey and Foreigner in Germany, and just announced this week - FM are honoured to have been invited back to play Download again this year. Full list of dates (more info available at www.fmofficial.com: April 16 Sala Heineken Madrid Spain June 09 Sweden Rock Festival Solvesborg Sweden June 10 Download Festival Donington Park England June 23 Rock Temple Kerkrade Holland June 24 Graspop Festival Dessel Belgium June 25 "Rock The Nation" - Freilichtbuhne Loreley Germany June 26 "Rock The Nation" - Stadt Aus Eisen Ferropolis Germany FM are currently writing and recording for the follow-up to last year's Metropolis album and would like to thank everybody who made the following possible. Get Ready To Rock - 2010 Album of the Year with "Metropolis" / ARfm Radio - 2010 Best Band of the Year / Planet Rock – "Frozen Heart" in the Top 20 Greatest AOR Songs of all Time. WebLinks: www.fmofficial.com / www.facebook.com/FMofficial / www.twitter.com/FMofficial. MORE LIVE DATES TO LOOK FOR: Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band will begin touring North America in March. It's the group's first tour since their 2006-07 trek. Dates and places have yet to be revealed, but a video announcement on BobSeger.com pictured a map highlighting the states of Missouri, Ohio, New York, Massachusetts and (of course) his home state of Michigan. As far as specifics go, the video only claimed that Seger and friends would be hitting "major cities across North America." More tour dates announced for Damon Johnson: Saturday, January 29 – Whitesburg, KY – Summit City Lounge Saturday, February 5 – Sterling, IL – Wagon Wheel Saturday, February 12 – Kingsport, TN – The Bus Pit Friday, February 18 – Guntersville, AL – Rounders Sunday, February 20 – Auburn, AL – The War Eagle Supper Club KYOJI YAMAMOTO (BOW WOW, VOWWOW) RELEASES HIS FIRST EVER SOLO CD OUTSIDE OF JAPAN: You're the drummer for one of the most well-known bands on the planet. It's November, 2003, and you've just begun a year-long world tour by finishing up 2 sold-out dates in Tokyo in front of 26,000 rabid fans. What do you do now? Do you reach for your pharmaceutical of choice? Do you take advantage of the local lovelies backstage? Or do you just get back on the bus and fire up the game console? If you're Lars Ulrich of Metallica, you grab your new bass player, Rob Trujillo, and go out into the night in search of the Holy Grail of guitar gods. You ask the taxi driver to take you to the Roppongi district, home to nightclubs, seedy love hotels and the occasional Yakuza. There, in a small nondescript club, you jam the night away with one of the finest guitarists the world has never heard of. For 3 decades, Kyoji Yamamoto has enjoyed a stellar career in his native Japan, first as the leader of the seminal Japanese bands BowWow and Vow Wow, even appearing onstage at the renowned Reading Festival, as a member of the supergroup Phenomena II, and then as a producer and a solo artist. Despite a brief flirtation with international stardom in the 1980s, when Vow Wow relocated to the United Kingdom to ride the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, he has existed in relative obscurity in the West. Until now. City Boy Records (New York) has just released Voyager: The Essential Kyoji Yamamoto, a compilation that, for the first time ever outside of Japan, brings together 13 of the finest guitar instrumentals from Kyoji's 3 solo albums on one CD: Mind Arc (1998), Requiem (1999) and Time (2005). With extensive liner notes, never-before-seen photographs and 2 exclusive unreleased downloads, this CD release is the perfect introduction to a musician whose time has finally come. From the arena-rock sound of "Voyager" to the hauntingly beautiful version of "Ave Maria"; from the Hendrix-inspired "Walrus" to the flamenco rave-up of "Spanish Pirates"; and from the aching blues of "River of Time" to the anthemic "Time (I Have Seen Everything and I Want to Tell You Something)," this CD will take you on a long and unforgettable voyage from Japan to your soul. All you have to do is let Kyoji Yamamoto be your guide. Link to the Kyoji Yamamoto video for "Spanish Pirates" on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=U84szTNrBGQ. The CD is available at www.cityboyrecords.biz. Downloads available at iTunes, Rhapsody, Amazon and more.   7TH HEAVEN GETTING READY TO KICK OFF 2011 SCHEDULE: Richie Hofherr of 7th Heaven posted this update on the band's plans for 2011: "Chicago was just hit with a HUGE Blizzard and all I kept thinking about when plowing my driveway for 3 hours was how awesome our summer schedule is going to be and how I wished it was here. 2010 was a incredible year for 7th heaven and in 2011, we're going to keep the ball rolling. We have already started working on a new CD to be released in June. We have been adding more and more new songs to our set, which will be a work in progress over the next 3 months. We have about 95% of our entire year booked already and we should have the entire year finalized in the next 2-3 weeks. We will have our summer schedule online in April." LITA FORD PLANS NEXT ALBUM - WITHOUT GRUNTS: I heard this news below with some surprise. After the monumentally hideous crapfest that was Lita Ford's last album - with husband Jim Gillette largely responsible for the direction and obnoxious sexual overtones and grunting on the album - news now that the pair are getting divorced! Sad news for any family, but at least Lita's next album stands a chance now. This from Blabbermouth: "'80s hard rock queen Lita Ford revealed during an interview with Frankie DiVita, radio personality for 96.7 KCAL Rocks, that she is presently going through a "really ugly divorce" from her husband of 16 years, ex-Nitro vocalist Jim Gillette. According to Lita, the ordeal has inspired the lyrical themes covered on her forthcoming studio album, "The Healing", which she hopes to release sometime this spring. When asked what kind of topics she is writing about on the new CD, Lita said, "I'm going through a divorce right now, and it's a really ugly divorce, so the album is based around people and their problems — whether it's divorce or whether it's sickness or whether they lost a job. The album is called 'The Healing', and it's all based around those sorts of things — sickness, cancer, loss, divorce... I mean, it's not gonna be depressing album. So far the songs are very upbeat. . . and it is written with encouragement, and I think a lot of people will be able to relate." Lita and Jim are the parents of two sons, 9-year-old Rocco and 13-year-old James. "Wicked Wonderland", the first album in 15 years from Lita Ford, sold around 2,600 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 31 on the Top Hard Music Albums chart." MELODIC BRIEFS: Four of the original Bang Tango members - Mark Knight, Kyle Kyle, Kyle Stevens, and Tigg Ketler have put the band back together with former American Hardcore / L.A. Guns singer Chris Van Dahl. Rehearsals start in February and then band hits the road shortly after. The recording, and mixing of the first Avigal CD Gates of Hell are done. Currently the band is in the rehearsal studio working very hard on building a killer live set. Due to prior commitment to The Rods, a lifelong band of Carl Canedy, he could not join Avigal in the rehearsal studio. A new drummer Chad Turtur from the band Septembers Ash, an old friend of Dicky and Rich, was brought in to join the band permanently. Shmoulik stated: "I'm done with the mixing and it's great. I am also negotiating with few record labels to get the best deal I can get for the release of the cd." The mixing of the album Gates of Hell is done, time to have some fun and play live! Here it is: 18 February @ Suzy's Tavern, 6 Lexington Ave, Auburn New York. www.myspace.com/avigaltheband. Fireforce have released the cover artwork and track listing for their forthcoming album March On due out on 25th March in world via 7hard. The artwork was designed by Eric Philippe, well known for his work with Rhapsody, Riot, Mob Rules, TNT and many others. The track listing for March On: 1. Coastal Battery 2. The Only Way 3. Firestorm 4. Horus (Bringer Of Order) 5. 1302 - Battle For Freedom 6. Moonlight Lady 7. Annihilation 8. Fly Arrow Fly (Crécy 1346) 9. Mona Lisa 10. Hold Your Ground 11. Born To Play Metal 12. Metal Rages On. Be prepared for 12 tracks of true old school power metal with a monster wall of sound! Stay metal for more updates at: www.fireforce.be / www.7hart.de / www.rockngrowl.com / www.trendxl.de.

 

 

Wednesday, February 02, 2011

NO GRAVITY SIGN TO LION MUSIC - DEBUT ALBUM RELEASED MARCH 18: Lion Music are pleased to announce the signing of No Gravity to the labels roster. No Gravity are a new progressive metal band from guitarist Simone Fiorletta (Moonlight Comedy / solo) who see the release of their debut album Worlds In Collision on Lion Music on March 18. No Gravity was born when the Italian guitarist developed ideas with the intention of producing an album with the best singers from the prog power world in a single package. With a line up of vocalists Michele Luppi (Killing Touch), Andy Kuntz (Vanden Plas), Fabio Lione (Rhapsody Of Fire, Vision Divine), Roberto Tiranti (Labyrinth), Mark Basile (DGM) and Emiliano Germani (Moonlight Comedy) the debut album Worlds In Collision certainly lives up to the promise of Fiorletta's original vision. No Gravity is completed by an equally skilled band in second guitarist Davide Perruzza, keyboardist Andrea De Paoli, bassist Andrea Casaliand drummer Marco Aiello. All music for the debut was composed by Simone Fiorletta whose main emphasis was to produce strong songs, whilst lyrics and vocal melody lines were written by each tracks respective singer. Full release information to follow shortly. www.myspace.com/nogravityprog / www.facebook.com/nogravityprog.   Lion Music are delighted to announce the signing of Canadian power metallers Borealis who will release their new album Fall From Grace on May 20. With soaring vocals, lightning fast guitars and a rock solid backline, Borealis is bringing leather back, and dragging power metal up with it. It's been that way from the start for these Canadian guys: all or nothing, and it shows in their music. Musically Borealis leans towards the classic power metal sound, not too far removed from bands such as Evergrey or even Savatage in their prime, but also the more progressive bands like Vanden Plas or Dream Theater springs to mind here and there. It's all about energy, aggression, melodies and finesse - and Borealis has it all in spades. With an independently released debut safely in the bag, the band took it upon themselves to give ProgPower USA one heck of a kick-start when they visited the world famous festival in September of 2010, and with a 45 minute set comprised of songs from both the upcoming disc "Fall From Grace" as well as the debut made sure all 1100 people in attendance would leave with a positive memory of Borealis. Their forthcoming offering Fall From Grace is sure to see the buzz generated by the bands performance at ProgPower USA reach a larger audience worldwide on May 20. Full release information to follow shortly. www.borealisband.com. Released: 18-2-2011 - www.lionmusic.com/cd/legacy.htm / Italian progressive metal band Twinspirits return with their third album Legacy on 18th February 2011. Legacy takes all the best aspects of the bands previous two releases and adds a heavier dynamic and more cohesive sound thanks to a fixed line-up, the same that delivered the highly praised The Forbidden City and spent time on the road promoting that release. Legacy marks the second album of vocalist Goran Nystrom in the band, and his voice delivers another commanding performance over the material penned by band mastermind and keyboardist Daniele Liverani. Guitarist Tommy Ermolli takes a heavier role this time round whilst the rhythm section of bassist Alberto Rigoni and drummer Dario Ciccioni hold down the complex patterns with precision. Legacy is divided in 2 main parts. In the first part we have 6 powerful straight ahead songs, still being progressive in nature and with a more direct feel to them than has been heard from the band before. The second part of the album is a multi suite movement, The Endless Sleep, divided in 5 songs (symphonic intro + 4 songs) that is more like an album within an album being very theatrical and visionary. On the albums lyrical slant Liverani comments, "Lyrically the first 6 songs are independent to the suite, and are cover subject, including personal experiences, thoughts about life in this era, and different kind of reflections of human beings into this modern world we are living in. The second part, the suite, is covering a concept story that runs through a journey that the main character is undertaking after a premature death, whereby he's discovering a role that he's involved in after he passes away, and the meeting with a superior entity that is giving him a sort of second chance to get back to the human life to accomplish a human rescue mission as a second millennium messiah...a very struggling story that will be revealed part by part of the endless sleep 30 min. suite. The key points of the concept are in part I'm leaving this world where the main character describes the moment he passes away and his extra body experience, the song Legacy where we have the relationship between him and the superior entity that is explaining his new role in the afterlife, the songs what am I supposed to do is a very moving moment where he meets his parents while he's back to human life temporary, and the final part tell me the truth continues the description of the relationship of the main character with his afterlife guide mentor." Twinspirits will be getting back on the road in spring 2011 promoting the new album with a tour and some European festival appearances. A promotional video for Slave To This World was released in January 2011 and has won strong praise from the bands fan base and beyond. View at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckU0hL_awKY. Track Listing 01. Senseless.02. Pay For Their Art. 03. Blind Soul. 04. Slave To This World. 05. Don't Kill Your Dreams. 06. Over And Over Again. 07. The Endless Sleep / The Endless Sleep. 08. The Endless Sleep / What Am I Supposed To Do. 09. The Endless Sleep / Legacy. 10. The Endless Sleep / I'm Leaving This World. 11. The Endless Sleep / Tell Me The Truth. Musicians: Goran Nystrom: Lead and backing vocals; Tommy Ermolli: Guitars; Daniele Liverani: Keyboards; Alberto Rigoni: Bass; Dario Ciccioni: Drums. WebLinks: www.twinspirits.net / www.myspace.com/Twinspiritsband / www.lionmusic.com.   FIREFEST WELCOMES A NEW SPONSOR: Firefest is delighted to announce a sponsorship agreement between Firefest and Classic Rock's latest addition to their considerable stable, Classic Rock Presents AOR. Firefest has flown the flag proudly for melodic rock and AOR for the past eight years and with Classic Rock owners Future Publishing recently commissioning a new periodical dedicated entirely to the AOR genre, it made perfect sense for Firefest and Classic Rock Presents AOR to join forces with the ultimate aim of expanding, or perhaps further re-awakening the interest in the AOR genre. Firefest's Kieran Dargan had this to say: "When the idea of Future Publishing actually bringing out a periodical dedicated entirely to this genre was first mooted it was met with a mixed sense of expectation - would it just retread old ground or would it offer a new outlet for not only established bands, but for the newer bands continuing to write and record within this genre? I think we have all seen that the magazine not only offers a respectful nod to the past but has also nailed its colours to the mast with features and reviews of newer acts such as Houston, White Widdow, Crashdiet and Reckless Love, to name but a few, with further features to come in the next issue." Kieran continues, "I do not think the contributors to CR Presents AOR need any introduction to the Firefest audience, their pedigree has stood the test of time and people like Geoff Barton, Dave Ling, Derek Oliver, Dave Reynolds and Alison Joy were hugely responsible for turning fans onto many of these bands in the first place way back in the day. It is with a great sense of pride and optimism that Firefest commences it's association with Classic Rock Presents AOR, because ultimately the winners are the fans who have continued to fight for the recognition that this genre deserves. We at Firefest would particularly like to thank Geoff Barton, Dave Ling and Chris Ingham for their commitment to not only the show, but the genre as a whole." "Classic Rock Presents AOR is delighted to be associated with this year's Firefest – and hopefully many more to come," says Geoff Barton. "Firefest has kept the AOR flag flying proudly over the years; all credit to the organisers for their dogged determination, and for keeping faith in AOR music through tough times. The first issue of CR Presents AOR was published in November 2010 and was an immediate sell-out. Our next edition will be available on May 5, 2011 and on a bimonthly basis after that. We look forward to working with Firefest and will do our very best to build the excitement to fever pitch by the time the event kicks off in October." BRIAN ROBERTSON SIGNS WITH SPV/STEAMHAMMER - SOLO ALBUM OUT IN MARCH: It's not for the first time in the history of rock music that coincidence led to the discovery of hidden treasures: a carrier bag full of music tapes (note: tapes!) turned out to be the basis for Diamonds And Dirt, the first solo release by Scottish guitarist/composer Brian Robertson, due to be released on 28 March 2011 (Germany: 25 March; US/Canada: April 5th) on Steamhammer/SPV. "I thrust the bag into my friend Søren's hand and said: 'Why don't you listen to these some time when you're bored. They're a number of my previously unreleased compositions.'" Søren Lindberg from Sweden happens to be one of former Thin Lizzy/Motörhead guitarist Brian Robertson's closest friends and frequently works as his driver when he has equipment which needs transporting. "He had plenty of time to listen to that pile of tapes in his lorry on the way back to Scandinavia," Robertson remembers, "and he called me as soon as he reached Stockholm: 'Brian, there's some brilliant stuff on those tapes. We should make an album of them!'" Lindberg already had a number of musicians in mind: he enlisted two of his country's most renowned instrumentalists in drummer Ian Haugland (Europe) and bassist Nalley Påhlsson (Treat). Robertson: "They're great, the best rhythm section I've played with since Phil Lynott and Brian Downey." Leif Sundin (ex-Michael Schenker Group) was recruited as an additional vocalist, and the amazing Liny Wood joined the fold as backing vocalist. "It wasn't easy to get all these extremely sought-after musicians in one place at the same time, which is why the work on Diamonds And Dirt took longer than originally scheduled. But it was important to us to get the best possible line-up, so we preferred to wait until they could all be there." The result is a superb album at the interface of hard rock with definite blues elements and gritty mainstream, wonderfully melodic and full of excellent guitar arrangements. In terms of compositions, the album presents a number of outstanding Robertson numbers, such as the driving title track, the truly intense 'Passion', 'Texas Wind' with its wonderfully atmospheric beginning, and the powerful 'Devil In My Soul' with its awesome wah-wah guitar solo. The album is rounded off by tracks from Robertson's extremely successful collaboration with Phil Lynott during their Thin Lizzy days in the years 1974 to 1978 and his fellow-countryman Frankie Miller, with whom he recorded Dancing In The Rain in 1986, among others. "I think Phil would be proud of what I've done with those Lizzy songs," says Robertson. "My guitar style is audibly stronger than it was back then when we admittedly still sounded a little wooden." Robertson is referring mainly to 'It's Only Money' (from the 1974 recording Nightlife), which has received in 2011 the very polish it still lacked in the mid-1970s. The yet unreleased Robertson/Lynott co-composition 'Blues Boy' and the Lizzy track 'Running Back' (off Jailbreak, 1976) present Robertson as an impressive instrumentalist. Coincidentally, the track has been recorded in two versions: "I said to Søren: 'Let's cut it the way I hear that number.' So we tried several interpretations, among them a slower version, which we've also included on the album." The three Frankie Miller numbers, 'Mail Box', 'Do It Till We Drop (Drop It!)' and 'Ain't Got No Money', sound equally accomplished. To keep Miller happy, former Riverdogs frontman, Rob Lamothe, was enlisted to record the latter. "I played the first version to Frankie, but he didn't like my vocals. So we asked Rob to sing the number. Frankie was very pleased with the result." Rightly so, because the album with its top-notch production courtesy of Robertson, Søren Lindberg and Chris Laney fascinates from the first to the very last note. We can only hope that we will get an opportunity to see this illustrious line-up live on stage. "For organizational reasons, I have my doubts that it will be possible to get these musicians together for a full tour, but who knows: we may always turn up for a number of festival gigs this summer. I'm sure we'd all enjoy that." So would the audience … Track listing 01: Diamonds And Dirt (Brian Robertson) 02: Passion (Brian Robertson) 03: It's Only Money (Phil Lynott) 04: Mail Box (Frankie Miller) 05: Running Back (Phil Lynott) 06: Texas Wind (Brian Robertson) 07: Devil In My Soul (Brian Robertson) 08: Do It Till We Drop (Drop It) (Frankie Miller/Jeff Barry/Brian Robertson) 09: Blues Boy (Brian Robertson/Phil Lynott) 10: That's All...! (Brian Robertson) 11: 10 Miles To Go On A 9 Mile Road (Jim White) 12: Running Back (Phil Lynott) (slow version) 13: Ain't Got No Money (Frankie Miller) (bonus track). Produced by Chris Laney, Sören Lindberg and Brian Robertson except for "Ain't Got No Money" produced by Sören Lindberg and Brian Robertson. Line-Up: Brian Robertson - All Guitars, Lead & Backing Vocals, Keyboards (Bass Guitar and Percussion on "Ain't Got No Money) (Ex-Thin Lizzy, Ex-Motörhead, Ex-Wild Horses), Ian Haugland - Drums and Percussion (Drummer Europe), Nalley Påhlsson - Bass Guitar & Backing Vocals (Bassplayer Therion and Treat), Leif Sundin - Lead Vocals (Ex-singer of MSG), Liny Wood - Backing Vocals, Rickard Jakobson - Percussion, Chris Antblad - Piano on "Running Back", Ola Gustafsson - Dobro on "Running Back" (slow version only!), Rob Lamothe - Lead Vocals on "Ain't Got No Money" (Riverdogs), Ellinor Alm - Backing Vocals on "Ain't Got No Money", Håkan Persson - Drums on "Ain't Got No Money". WebLinks: www.spv.de / www.facebook.com/pages/Brian-Robertson/253521517392.   xx TALON FIRED UP AND READY TO UNLEASH THEIR NEXT ALBUM - WITH SPECIAL GUESTS: Los Angeles melodic hard rock band Talon is currently putting the finishing touches on their forthcoming CD, tentatively scheduled for a Spring release. It is currently being mixed at The Recovery Room by Ty Sims and is chock full of classic hard rock songs and ballads that John Parker, drummer for Talon describes as "really a return to the sound and vibe of our debut S/T release on Frontiers Records". John continues….."this latest CD was a complete labor of love and we all feel this will be our strongest release to date! We pulled out all the stops and really think the results will speak for themselves". Talon's quest for the ultimate release started with bringing on board as their guest vocalist Shawn Pelata (Line Of Fire) to bring the tracks to the highest level possible! Next, keyboardist extraordinaire Eric Ragno was added to the fold and provides some outstanding keys throughout the project ! Then, premiere vocalist Jeff Scott Soto takes lead vocals on the hard-driving track Take You All The Way! The best musicians contributed their talents to help create an outstanding release! The yet-to-be-titled release was produced by Ty Sims (Far Cry, Tango Down) and will have a 2nd quarter release. Talon recently played at MelodicRockFest2 and a homecoming show at the world famous Whisky A Go-Go which produced a great response to the new tunes that debuted during those shows. With upcoming shows – including Firefest VIII this October – to promote the release, look for Talon to tear it up in 2011. A sneak peak of the CD had its world premiere on the Steve Price Show on ARFM during the Firefest announcement special and is available for preview now at the Talon Official Face book page. In addition, you can also get the latest news, videos, photos, songs and more. Join us for the ride! WebLinks: and.to/talonofficial / www.myspace.com/talonrocks1. R.I.P. HENRIK OSTERGAARD & JAN SOMERS: This is becoming a bit of an unfortunate regularity, but I must again report on the passing of two noted musicians in the last few days. Report: Henrik Ostergaard was the lead singer for '80s metal band, Dirty Looks. Formed in San Francisco, California by way of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1984, Dirty Looks released a handful of albums before Atlantic Records took notice and signed them. Their major label debut, Cool From The Wire included "Oh Ruby," whose video received enough MTV airplay to help the album make the Billboard album charts. After the band broke up in 1993, Ostergaard formed Rumbledog. He took a break from the music business during the late '90s, but then reunited with Dirty Looks in recent years. On January 27, 2011 goerie.com reported that Henrik Ostergaard died earlier that day of natural causes while he was in hospice care. He was 47. Report: Henrik Ostergaard, the lead singer of '80s metal act Dirty Looks, passed away yesterday while under hospice care in Erie, Pa. Ostergaard, who was of Danish descent, died at the age of 47. Exact causes of his untimely passing are still unknown, and results of the autopsy are still pending. And from Dutch band Vengeance - "We deeply regret the suddenly passing away from our dearly beloved band member and personal friend Jan Somers. Jan died of a heart-attack this afternoon at the 28th of January, in the age of 46, at his home in Mierlo, Holland. Jan was one of the band members of the FIRST hour from the band Vengeance. We wish his family, friends and fan the strength to rock on. The family's request is to give them peace and quietness for the next two days. Jan you have painted your Soul Collector and man he's going to love you like we are already missing you..... Lots, Lots and lots of love your Rock and Roll band." WebLink: www.vengeanceonline.nl.   BEAUTIFUL BEAST "ADULT ORIENTED CANDY" - RELEASE SET FOR LATE FEB/EARLY MARCH: Press Release from Julian Angel's Beautiful Beast: "I know it, I know it, I know... We had been planning for a January release. Wow, the new year should have kicked off with a hell of a hair metal album - just the way 1989 did. Then, for health reasons (you're bound to catch a severe cold in European Winter) recordings have been delayed. Next we had to fit into Rolf Munkes' mixing schedule. Chances are he's already twisting the knobs on his SSL while you're reading this. With a little time left between recordings, photo shootings and the formal stuff (imagine that: filing forms and dealing with authorities - this is supposed to be rock and roll) we still found the time to write and record the bonus track we promised to make up for the delay: "Singer And Guitarist In A Hair Band" sounds like a tongue-in-cheek fun thing, but it isn't. It is absolutely serious. Because we mean it. We think that hair metal (and related genres such as AOR, glam and sleaze) is really cool - if it's being delivered in a quality music environment, which we think is what we are doing... Beautiful Beast Adult Oriented Candy will be available on CD in late February / early March 2011. It will start with hand-signed copies through the band's yet to be announced website before the album makes it into the widely known style-related mail-order shops, iTunes and Amazon." WebLinks: www.facebook.com/pages/Beautiful-Beast/108655302490873 / www.angel-rock.com / www.hairmetalalbum.com.   EVERGREY LAUNCH ALBUM RELEASE PARTIES: Release-parties will be held in Sweden and Norway to celebrate the release of Evergrey´s new album Glorious Collision. These parties will have Evergrey perform acoustic versions of new and old songs from the bands catalogue. 23.02.2011 Stockholm (Swe) Göta Källare - Release party (acoustic) 25.02.2011 Skövde (Swe) Husaren, Backstage - Release party (acoustic) 26:02.2011 Gothenburg (Swe) Sticky Fingers - Release party (acoustic) 04.03.2011 Fredrikstad (Nor) Helheim Bar - Release party (acoustic) The chance to pre-order the special Glorious Collision packages of the bands website: www.evergrey.net/preorder/ are reaching its final days, so be sure to check that out for some very special deals! "Glorious Collision" will be released via Steamhammer/SPV on the following dates: Sweden: February 23rd. Germany: February 25. Rest Of Europe: February 28. USA/Canada: February 22. Evergrey´s first single of the album "Wrong" will see its digital release on the 9th of February. Evergrey are also booked as special guests on Kamelot's upcoming European tour all dates can be found at evergrey.net or at www.facebook.com/evergrey. The first festival for the summer is confirmed: Getaway Rockfestival 7,8 and 9th of July Gävle - Sweden www.getawayrock.se. WebLinks: www.evergrey.net / www.myspace.com/officialevergrey / www.facebook.com/evergrey. JON ANDERSON ON YES: "I PUSHED THEM UP THE MOUNTAIN": Jon Anderson is a founding member of the seminal British progressive rock group Yes. The singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist fronted the group through several decades of commercially successful and musically adventurous albums and tours. In 2008 Anderson suffered a severe asthma attack and acute respiratory failure, leaving him unable to perform a planned Yes tour, and the group replaced him with the singer from a Yes tribute act from YouTube and moved on. Anderson recently released a new album with former Yes keyboardist Rick Wakeman called The Living Tree, and in a new interview with Sterling Whitaker of Examiner.com he talked about his years with Yes and how he saw his role in the group. "I'd write the songs, I'd come up with ideas for the structure . . . I pushed them up the mountain every time," Anderson said. "Close to the Edge, Topographic, "Gates of Delirium" [and] "Awaken" are my favorite pieces. I pushed them up the mountain. They wouldn't have gone there without me. It was my dream. I had this idea of, we're talented musicians. Why don't we expand music and make it something different, rather than chase the charts?" Anderson added that it's not unusual for bands that stay together for a long time to have problems. "Over years, you get to a stage where bands stay together because it's business," he noted. "When I got sick, I just couldn't continue. I was really ill, and the guys didn't understand it. And what's to say why they didn't understand it. I don't know. But that's life. You know, you get on with my next thing." Asked if he would ever consider re-joining Yes, Anderson didn't give a definite answer, saying, "That's a difficult question, obviously. They just disappointed me totally, and a lot of fans. They decided they wanted to go and get a guy that sounded like me and looked like me. "I'm doing what I believe to be the right thing by just getting on with music, rather than worrying about the band. I know they're out there, they're making an album. Good luck to them." Read Part One of the interview here, and Part Two here. Y&T CONTINUE TO PAY TRIBUTE TO PHIL KENNEMORE: News from the Y&T camp: "Many of you have already heard, but some are just now learning of the passing of Phil Kennemore on January 7th. Please visit the home page at: www.YandTRocks.com. On behalf of Phil's family and Y&T, thank you all for your heartfelt comments on the forum and elsewhere online. Everyone in the Y&T organization is devastated to lose one of their anchors, but the band will honor Phil and continue with the legacy that is Y&T. On with the show... The final few remaining auction items to benefit Phil's family are up on our auction site. Check out the auction page to bid on the very bass that Phil played in the "I'm Coming Home" video, tickets to Eddie Trunk's "That Metal Show," an autographed Def Leppard book, and a one-of-a-kind "Facemelter" tool box by Snap-on Tools. 100% of the winning bids goes to Phil's family. www.meniketti.com/auction. The benefit event shirts were so popular that we kept the front design and created a new back to honor Phil. This tee features a heart filled with Phil Kennemore lyrics and "The Magic of Phil" on the front, and the back features a photo of Phil and more. We have only a few of these shirts left. Available exclusively on the Y&T web site. 100% of the proceeds goes to Phil's family. store.meniketti.com. INTRODUCING METAL BAND REVERANCE: Reverence, the new power metal band featuring vocalist Todd Michael Hall (Jack Starr's Burning Starr, Harlet), guitarist Bryan Holland (Tokyo Blade, Arrest), drummer Steve "Dr. Killdrums" Wacholz (Savatage, Crimson Glory) and bassist Frank Saparti (Tokyo Blade, Overloaded, Mindcandy), will enter Sight 16 Studios in Albuquerque, New Mexico in April with producer Sid Garcia to begin recording its debut album for a tentative fall 2011 release through Razar Ice Records. Working song titles set to appear on the CD include "Too Late", "Vengeance Is Mine", "Gatekeeper", "Revolution Rising", "Monster", "Lost Generation" and "Phantom Road". Commented guitarist Bryan Holland: "Leaving my last project has been a blessing in disguise. "Todd, Steve, Frank and I have all been on the same page with this project since day one. The songs just started flowing within just days of meeting vocalist Todd Hall and haven't stopped since. Todd's four octave range is simply unstoppable!! It'll be fantastic to finally playing with Doc (Steve Wacholz). We've been friends for 15 years and is my favorite drummer on the planet! And I absolutely love sharing the stages with Frank; he's a madman!!" Reverence has signed on with No-Nonsense Management and Booking. A fall European tour will follow the new release. WebLinks: www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQ-HKKyZIdI / www.myspace.com/Reverencemetal. LYNCH SIGNS TO SWEET SOUNDS MUSIC & MANAGEMENT: We are pleased to announce that the Chicago based melodic hard rock band Lynch have signed a management deal with Sweet Sounds Music & Management. With a mix of hard rock and bluesy overtones, incredibly catchy hooks and unique lyrics delivered by a true story teller, Lynch always leaves their fiercely loyal fans thrilled and longing for the next show. Lynch's sound is born of the 70's and 80's finest music, bands like Triumph, Thin Lizzy, Free, and Led Zeppelin are all part of what's given the band a unique sound that is all their own. From their numerous live appearances across the Midwest there is a reason their fans always say you gotta see these guys live they are a great band that plays from the heart. Sweet Sounds Records will be releasing the second album tentatively entitled Voodoo Love in the spring of 2011. This new 10 song album will be recorded at Sonic Palace by Matt Mercado at the dials. For more info on Sweet Sounds and Lynch go to www.sweetsounds.us and www.lynch-rocks.com. Lynch is: Danny Lynch - Vocals, Mike Burke - Guitar, Frank Pace - Drums, Deb Altman - Bass/Vocals.   DEF LEPPARD'S STEVE CLARK IN MEMORIAM: Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine continues its ongoing Special Feature on Def Leppard by posting an interview with Lorelei Shellist, ex-fiancée of the band's late guitarist, Steve Clark. Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr: What's the one thing that you remember about Steve and which is the part/side of his character that you really miss? Lorelei Shellist: One Thing??? That's tough- mostly I remember his cheeky grin a smile that lit up my world. Steve was mischievous like a little boy. He loved to play pranks and talk in funny voices. He made me laugh. I miss that little boy in him. Rockpages.gr: I know that you are a fan of rock n' roll music. From an "insider" in the Def Leppard camp, to where do you attribute the band's commercial and artistic success? Lorelei Shellist: I was there when they were writing the songs for Hysteria and I was blessed to witness this...Def Leppard has something most bands strive for but never attain...commitment to the greatest good of the songs and of the band as a whole. They make decisions based on what is good for the band, sort of like a marriage and they put that relationship first. Commercially and artistically, they collaborate and let the ideas flow. No one is singled out as THE ONE rock star in the group. They are really a "Band" in the true sense of the word. Each of the guys knows that their contribution to the group is as important as the next guy's contribution. Def Leppard's recipe for success comes from realizing that each ingredient is integral to the final product. They honor that and each other. It is why they didn't abandon Rick after his accident, why they had to let Pete Willis go, and why they held out for Steve as long as they could. Read The Full Interview On: www.rockpages.gr/standard.aspx?type=13&sub=O&lang=EN. MELODIC BRIEFS: Bon Jovi will take two years off after they wrap up The Circle tour so fans will appreciate them more when they come back, drummer Tico Torres told Rolling Stone. Torres said, "Sometimes you need to get away so people can appreciate you better. The best thing I can tell you is we're gonna need a couple of years off for sure." The final leg of The Circle tour begins on February 9 and will run through until at least July 31. The tour was the most successful of 2010, roping in $201.1 million in ticket sales. www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/bon-jovi-0201-2011/ Melodic Revolution Records are proud to announce the signing of the Canadian Rockers Morre to the revolution family. Morre's upcoming release "Contrast" is the follow up to "…Out There" (2009) Contrast will be released late February and will feature six (6) new songs: morremusic.com / www.melodicrevolution.com. The Brazilian metal opera Soulspell have released their video for the track "Adrift" online. The track comes off the second Soulspell album "Act II: The Labyrinth of Truths" that was released last fall. Check out the video here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6dFO1lO7is. Chicago's Veilside is currently in the mastering stages of production on their upcoming CD This Time…, the band is working with mega producer Chuck Alkazian (Trust Company, Pop Evil, Slipknot, Saving Abel). The CD contains a melodic heavy cover of the Kansas hit Dust In The Wind. Worldwide release is set for March 2011 with support dates to follow. Catch more info at the bands website www.veilsideband.com. Thin Lizzy to play Sweden Rock Festival! / "Thin Lizzy was one of the prime hard-rock bands of the 70s. During the years with legendary vocalist/bassist Phil Lynott at the helm, i.e. 1969-83, the band produced innumerable classic tracks like "Whisky in the Jar", "Boys Are Back In Town", "Jailbreak", "Don't Believe a Word" and "Cold Sweat". Songs with a unique combination of groove, melody and ingenuity. No reunion was ever made before Lynott's passing in 1986, but ten years later the surviving members of Thin Lizzy's final line-up decided to start playing the classics again, under the old moniker. The line-up changed several times, and in 2009 Thin Lizzy seemed to face permanent dissolution. But no. May 2010 marked the band's official return in its strongest incarnation for a very long time. Namely former Thin Lizzy-members Scott Gorham (guitar), Brian Downey (drums), Darren Wharton (keyboards) and Marco Mendoza (bass), along with guitarist Viv Campbell (Def Leppard, ex-Dio) and singer Ricky Warwick (ex-The Almighty). Saying that Thin Lizzy are welcome back to SRF would be an understatement, the legend is back with a vengeance! Robin Beck is back with a new release and recently talked to Skylight webzine about her new album, the past success, James Christian and much more: www.skylight.gr/index.php. Jack Marques former lead vocalist of the band Mars Hill and Action (Frontiers Recs.) has a solo debut to be released March 20. It features guest appearances by Ty Tabor of King's X and Tim Gaines of Stryper. Please visit: jackmarques.com for more info! Former Finnish radio station Radio Ykkönen's/Ettan's (Radio One) chronicle blog site currently features an archive also Steve Perry`s interview from the autumn 1994: radioettanykkonen.blogspot.com/2011/01/kuuntele-steve-perryn-haastattelu.html.

 

 

Tuesday, February 01, 2011

BRITISH HARD ROCK LEGENDS URIAH HEEP ANNOUNCE THE NEW ALBUM DEAL: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of Uriah Heep, the legendary British Hard Rock band for the release of their 23rd studio album in April 2011. Following the completion of their 40th Anniversary Tour, the band started the recordings in January 2010 at Liscombe Park Studios in Buckinghamshire England. The confirmed title of the album is Into the Wild and it will include 11 brand new songs, including some epic additions to the band's huge catalogue of rock classics. Guitarist and founding member Mick Box said: "We are delighted and excited to be joining the Frontiers roster.  We see it as a really fantastic move and we are now fully immersed in recording process and hope to deliver the album they want, we want and the fans want.  'Appy Days" The band has recorded a video recording diary and the first chapter can be seen following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcWWsBIv1wU. Uriah Heep debuted in 1970 with the release of one of Hard Rock music's milestones "Very 'eavy... Very 'umble" and have since sold in excess of 30 millions albums worldwide. They constantly tour in the world, playing in over 53 countries and the band's live setlist features hits from the 70s and 80s, such as "The Wizard", "Free 'n Easy", "Sunrise" and their monster hits "Easy Livin'", "July Morning" and "Lady in Black", as well as new material. Uriah Heep play up to 250 shows a year to a total audience of 150,000 people and a full tour in support of the new release has been already announced:   31.03.11 Brisbane - Tivoli, Australia 01.04.11 Sydney - Enmore, Australia 02.04.11 Melbourne - Palais Theatre, Australia 12.04.11 Weert - Bosuil, Netherlands 14.04.11 Ebersbach - Kulturhaus, Germany 15.04.11 Worpswede - Musichall, Germany 16.04.11 Flensburg - Roxy, Germany 17.04.11 Osnabruck - Rosenhof, Germany 18.04.11 Hamburg - Fabrik, Germany 20.04.11 Aalen - Stadthalle, Germany 21.04.11 Unna - Stadthalle, Germany 23.04.11 Leipzich - Haus Auensee, Germany 24.04.11 Erfurt - Thuringenhalle, Germany 25.04.11 Filderstadt - Filharmonie, Germany 26.04.11 Aschaffenburg - Colossaal, Germany 27.04.11 Pratteln - Z7, Switzerland 29.04.11 Zug - Collierhalle, Switzerland 30.04.11 Appenweier - Stadthalle, Classic Rock Night Germany 06.05.11 Oldenburg - Kulturetage, Germany 07.05.11 Lichtenfels - Stadthalle, Germany 10.05.11 Munchen - Muffathalle, Germany 11.05.11 Memmingen - Kaminwerk, Germany 12.05.11 Wien - Gasometer, Austria 13.05.11 Leoben - Stadthalle, Austria 14.05.11 Temitz - Stadthalle, Austria 16.05.11 Saarbrucken - Garage, Germany 17.05.11 Nurnberg - Hirsch, Germany 18.05.11 Simbach - Lokhalle, Germany 19.05.11 Giessen - Hessenhalle, Germany 20.05.11 Oberhausen - Turbinennhalle, Germany 21.05.11 Morbach - Stadthalle, Germany 23.05.11 Wroclaw - Eter, Poland 24.05.11 Praha - KD Vitavska, Chech Rep 25.05.11 Katowice - Mega club, Poland 27.05.11 Gunzberg - Market place, Germany 28.05.11 Karlsruhe - Radio, Ettlingen open Air Germany 29.05.11 Zwolle - Hedon, Netherlands 30.05.11 Zoetermeer - Boerderij, Netherlands 31.05.11 Ulft - Drufabriek, Netherlands 28.07.11 Vallemaggia - Vallemaggia Blues Festival, Switzerland 05.08.11 Bad Krozingen - Kurpark, Germany Uriah Heep: Mick Box - guitar, vocals; Trevor Bolder - bass, vocals; Bernie Shaw - lead vocals; Phil Lanzon - keyboards, vocals; Russell Gilbrook - drums, vocals. WebLinks: www.uriah-heep.com / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   NEW ROB MORATTI SOLO ALBUM DUE FROM ESCAPE MUSIC: Escape Music is pleased to announce the forth coming album title Victory from the much loved and talented former Saga vocalist Rob Moratti, the album is being recorded as we speak and will be mixed by Richard Chycki (Rush / Aerosmith / Gotthard / Pink) and the release date shall be announced shortly! The players on the album are: Rob Moratti - Lead Vocals and Background vocals; Reb Beach - Lead Guitars (Winger / Whitesnake); Tony Franklin – Bass (Blue Murder / The Firm); Christian Wolff - Lead Guitars, Rythm guitars and Keyboards; Brian Doerner - Drums (Saga); Fredrik Bergh – Keyboards. Produced by - Rob Moratti. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   MICHAEL SADLER RETURNS TO SAGA: Prog-rockers Saga have been rejoined by the original singer, Michael Sadler. Commented Sadler: "Let me begin by saying how touched I am by your overwhelmingly positive reaction to the news of my return to Saga. It's always good to feel support from one's friends and family (fans fall under both categories!), especially at a time when you're making any kind of life change or decision, and believe me, this was a big one! Although the facts about 'how it all went down' will surely be elaborated upon through the course of the inevitable interviews that will follow, this came about simply because Jim and I stayed in contact after my departure in 2007. After all, after 30 years of musical and emotional investment, it's next to impossible not to be at least a little curious about the ripple effect, positive or negative, you may or may not have caused as a direct result of a decision you've made. During the course of a conversation we had some months ago about a few things, musical and otherwise, the topic of Saga came up, and we briefly touched on the notion of what it would be like, hypothetically speaking, if I were to rejoin the band. Nothing serious, just two friends sharing some memories and speculating just for fun. One thing that we agreed on was that, if and when I ever were to return, it would have to feel like it was exactly the right thing to do and exactly the right time to do it! While I can't say for certain that my return, in whatever capacity, was inevitable, what I can say is, that on more than one occasion, I have thought of what it would feel like, to once again record and perform with Saga. Consequently, during a more recent conversation, Jim said he felt that perhaps the time was right, and after quite a bit of thought… I agreed. One thing I would like to make clear, considering the implications and impact that my decision would have on my family, I naturally discussed this extensively with my wife, Gwen. Ultimately we agreed…this is who I am...and this is what I do! But make no mistake, without her support and belief, I know that this decision would not have been made. So, although I am very optimistic about Saga's future and very happy about my decision to come back, my family is, and will remain, my number one priority. So there you have it. The 'if' has become 'yes' and the 'when' has become 'now.' I would like to thank you all again for making me feel so welcome. It's nice to be back!" Saga recent vocalist, Rob Moratti returns to his solo career. GOTTHARD - WE WANT TO CONTINUE: As posted on MelodicRock's Facebook and Twitter pages - Gotthard have decided to continue on. They have now made an official statement: Message from Gotthard to all the fans - WE WANT TO CONTINUE! After the tragic accident of our friend and singer Steve Lee, who died October the 5th 2010 in the USA, we withdrew ourselves until after the new year and took a break. Now we are back again with plans for the future and a difficult task to fulfill. Leo Leoni: "...after the very emotional days after Steve's death, it was important for us to first of all try and cope with the pain, give it a place to rest and find ourselves again. And so we sat down in the new year and tried to look at the new situation „soberly" ...it was obvious to all of us very quickly that we had to go on – Gotthard is not a job for us – GOTTHARD IS OUR LIFE!!" Hena Habegger: "of course it can only go on if we are lucky to find the right guy. We're not only searching for a voice which can bring our songs alive again….we are looking much more for a singer who also humanly fits with us – with the Gotthard Family!" Freddy Scherer: "… for all of us it's a big challenge and it will not be easy at all. But we have good faith and we do what we do best – make music!" Marc Lynn: "....A big thank you to all the fans. Your concern, cards, e-mails and entries in the guestbook have given us the supporting power to deal with what has happened better and to gather new courage for the future." Thank you so much ~ Gotthard - Hena, Leo, Freddy, Marc. MIKE TRAMP STANDS HIS GROUND: Mike Tramp will release his 2nd album with his Rock n Roll Circuz band on March 28, entitled Stand Your Ground. Labels releasing the album include - Denmark: Target; Europe, Japan, Australia: Edel/EarMusic; USA/Canda: Cleopatra. More info on Mike Tramp's official website or on www.miketramp.webs.com.   FARCRY IS GETTING OPTIMISTIC FOR 2011: Farcry released High Gear in 2009 (Kivel Records). Right out of the gate the album was met with positive feedback with songs such as Love Won't Wait, Fine Line, Have It All, and Heaven. A straight ahead good time rock album with layered backing vocals and guitar solos galore for any fan of the late 80s early 90s genre. Where the band gained the most feedback was from their live show. Playing across the US, from South Dakota to IL, NJ, NY and MA. Winning over crowds with their high energy old fashioned brand of straight ahead rock n roll. In a Short year have played with the likes of such acts as Warrant, Slaughter, Vince Neil, Bret Michaels, Skid Row, Lita Ford, Dokken, Trixter, Winger and Danger Danger to name a few. The band is back and are Optimistic with their aptly titled sophomore album, Optimism. What better of a show to unveil the new material, then none other then Firefest this October. Pete Fry: "We are excited and Can't Wait to Play Firefest! We also want to thank Kieran and Co for the opportunity to play this years festival. They have built a great show and line up without a doubt. We are happy to be a part of it." Download: Farcry - Best Of Me from Optimism (Kivel Records) Due April 2011. BLOODBOUND UNVEIL COVER ARTWORK & TRACK LIST: Cover artwork and track listing of Bloobound's new album Unholy Cross have been unveiled. The forth effort from Sweden's premiere power metallers will be released on March 18 via AFM Records. The band comments: "The album cover made by Mark Wilkinson (Iron Maiden, Judas Priest etc) is very symbolic for the band as it symbolizes the resurrection of bloodbound. It shows our monster mascot "Nossen" rising from the dead. We as a band feel we're resurrected as well, as we now have a stable line up and we all like working together as a band unit. Unholy Cross was a fun album to write and record and musically we wanted to go back and create the magic from the Nosferatu album but with an updated 2011 production." Track Listing: 1. Moria 2. Drop The Bomb 3. The Ones We Left Behind 4. Reflections Of Evil 5. In For The Kill 6. Together We Fight 7. The Dark Side Of Life 8. Brothers Of War 9. Message From Hell 10. In The Dead Of Night 11. Unholy Cross.   A NEW DAY FOR ITALIAN AOR BAND MYLAND: The new Myland album Light Of A New Day will be released in Europe via Point Music on March 4. The album will feature a new line-up consisting of: Paul Morbini, drums; Hox Martino, guitar; Fabian Andrechen, bass; David I, Keyboards; Franco Campanella, vocals. Recorded in Italy and mixed by Marco Barusso (Lacuna Coil, 50 Seconds to Mars, Eros Ramazzotti). Track Listing: 1. Living In The Magic 2. Love Hurts So Bad 3. Never Care For The Future 4. Flying Higher 5. In Your Eyes 6. Dancing In The Moonlight 7. Never Stop Screaming Rock 8. Hey You 9. Shattered Dreams 10. Fire Burn Desire 11. Wherever You Go 12. Stand Up Tonight.   BCC ANNOUNCE UK HEADLINING DATES: The critically acclaimed Anglo-American rock supergroup Black Country Communion is pleased to announce a series of four UK headline summer concerts in the North of England, following their appearance at London's High Voltage Festival at Victoria Park on Sunday July 24th. The four piece rock band comprised of Joe Bonamassa (guitar, vocals), Jason Bonham (drums), Glenn Hughes (vocals, bass) and Derek Sherinian (keyboards), play Leeds O2 Academy (Tuesday 26th July), Newcastle O2 Academy (Wednesday 27th July), Glasgow O2 Academy (Friday 29th July) and Manchester Academy (Saturday 30th July). A special ticket pre-sale will be available to O2 Academy Priority subscribers from Wednesday 2nd February at 9am. To become an O2 Academy Priority customer please register at www.o2blueroom.co.uk. Tickets will then go on sale to the general public from 9am GMT on Friday 4th February. Black Country Communion's self-titled debut album was originally released during September 2010 to rave reviews. It entered the official UK album chart at #13 and shot straight to #1 in the official UK rock album chart. BCC's debut also hit #3 in Classic Rock magazine's Critics Album of the Year poll, while Planet Rock radio listeners voted them as the Best New Band of 2010. BCC are currently mixing their second studio album. The as yet untitled album, produced by Kevin Shirley, and rumoured to be their most explosive to date, is scheduled for June 2011 release. Read the official press release and download new live photos here: www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/blackcountrycommunion/tour.htm. ANVIL BASSIST INTERVIEWED: Glenn Gyorffy (aka Glenn Five or G5) of Anvil is one of the most underrated and inspirational bassists in rock. His aggressive yet melodic style helped revive Anvil from obscurity in the '90s. No less important was his dedication to his Anvil brothers, Steve Lips Kudlow and Robb Robbo Reiner, without which the band might have never survived and realized the success of the Anvil: The Story of Anvil film. In this rare interview, Hardrock Haven talks with Glenn Five—Anvil's quiet but no less crucial third member talks about life since the Anvil movie, their new album Juggernaut of Justice due in May and much more. HRH: When you joined Anvil 15 years ago, did you ever think the band would realize this type of success? What kept you going through the years of obscurity? Glenn Five: Absolutely!! As soon as I started playing with Anvil, I knew something special was happening. I remember thinking 'This is where I belong,' and 'The world needs to know about this.' Those thoughts have kept me dedicated to Anvil and to Lips and Robb who accepted me into their life-long endeavor. Many people have called our journey a struggle—and to a certain extent it has been. But continuing on hasn't been the struggle, that part is easy when you have the self-belief and love what you do. It has been getting the rest of the world to take notice that has been the real hard part. To read the entire interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/glenn-five-of-anvil/. WITHIN TEMPTATION TO RELEASE A SERIES OF SHORT MOVIES ALONGSIDE "THE UNFORGIVING" ALBUM: With great anticipation Within Temptation will reveal the first of 3 short films on the band's websites www.facebook.com/wtofficial and www.within-temptation.com. These movies give further insight into the concept of the band's fifth studio album The Unforgiving and are based on the comic storyline; the characters are impersonated by actors. Each film is followed by a band performance that, all together, form a dark and compelling tale of life, love, revenge, rage, and regret. The first movie, titled "Mother Maiden", ties in with the band's first single & video for 'Faster', introducing the main characters of the narrative. British actress Dawn Mastin (Tom & Thomas, Down) performs the lead role. Within Temptation fans who share the "Mother Maiden" short film via their social network on Facebook or Twitter using a "pay-with-a-tweet" application, supplied on the band's various sites, will not only receive a brand new Within Temptation wallpaper in return but have exclusive access to an online listening party for the album pre-release. Synopsis of "The Unforgiving" short film series: A powerful medium, Mother Maiden recruits lost souls to be part of her wraith taskforce to fight evil in all its forms. What better way to hunt serial killers than to use killers? Their servants are culled from genuinely remorseful souls; ones who may not have been cold-blooded killers, but those who did in turn take a life and are deeply sorry for their sins. Guilt can be a powerful motivator…and redemption, even greater. They each carry a specific guilt about something they did in their lives. Mother Maiden offers them an opportunity to "make right what is wrong" by giving them missions and assignments to hunt down evil as a penance for their previous sins. Within Temptation, led by charismatic front woman Sharon den Adel, has purposefully moved away from the windswept fantasies of previous albums for the new record. "The Unforgiving" is their first conceptual album and is based on the storyline of a comic written by Steven O'Connell (BloodRayne/Dark 48) and illustrated by Romano Molenaar (Witchblade/Darkness/X-Men). The comic consists of a prequel and 6 episodes which will be published every 2 months throughout 2011. In addition to the comic, these 3 short movies the band has produced will be released on a bonus DVD with the special edition of the album, alongside a documentary about the film production process. "The Unforgiving" is the bands most diverse album to date, a dazzling tour-de-force of state-of-the-art hard rock, gleaming pop melodies, razor-sharp arrangements, and powerful, shadow-shrouded atmospheres; "The Unforgiving" is quite unlike any previous Within Temptation album. Every one of its 12 tracks boasts a huge, instantly memorable melody, and yet there is enormous diversity and versatility on display here, as the band move skilfully from the instant thrills of the anthemic 'Shot In The Dark', the blissfully metallic 'In The Middle Of The Night', and the soaring menace of first single 'Faster ', through to the epic bombast of 'Iron', the exhilarating drama of 'Where Is The Edge' and the irresistible disco thump of 'Sinéad'. "We didn't want to make a traditional concept album where you just make up a story and write lyrics to tell the tale," explains guitarist Robert Westerholt. "What we've always done in the past when we read a book or saw a movie, is that it inspires us to write a lyric or a song, and that's how we wanted to approach this. We have 12 tracks and they're soundtracks to the story. "In a strange way, it also felt like we were getting back to our roots on this album," he notes. "We come from the late '80s and early '90s, that's our musical birthplace. You always want to do something new, but we also went back to that time and embraced it". "The Unforgiving" album will be released on March 28. I.M.P. PRESENTS 2011 M3 ROCK FESTIVAL IN ITS 3RD YEAR ADDS KICK-OFF PARTY & CONCERT: Press Release: "No, you're not having flashbacks. These intensely vivid heavy metal memories you're about to experience will ignite in 2011. Kix, Warrant, LA Guns, Whitesnake, Tesla and Lita Ford will be among the acts taking over Merriweather Post Pavilion, playing full sets of their glam rock and heavy metal hits, along with other unexpected amazements. In its third year, I.M.P. Presents M3 Rock Festival will add a Kick Off Party and Concert featuring full sets, since one day alone can't contain all this metal. The Official M3 Kix-Off Party will get things started Friday, May 13th at 7pm. The full-blown 2011 M3 Rock Festival begins Saturday, May 14 at Noon. Last year VIP and Pavilion seats sold out faster than you could flick your Bic, so headbangers hoping to get close enough to smell the sweat will want to be at their computers Thursday, Feb 3 at 10am EST for the insiders pre-sale. Only members of M3 Rockers' Forum will be given the pre-sale promo code. Fans can sign up for the Rockers' Forum on: www.m3rockfest.com. Discounted 2-Day Packages will go on sale to the general public Friday, Feb 4 at 10am EST. If there are any tickets remaining as of March 4th, they will go on sale as Single-Day tickets at 10 am EST through Ticketfly. Tickets can also be purchased at the Merriweather and 9:30 Club Box Offices. For more information, visit: www.ticketfly.com. M3 Rock Festival will feature two music stages, the Freak Stage and a Festival Village. Playing Friday night, May 13: Kix, with special guests Warrant, LA Guns and Jetboy. Playing Saturday, May 14: Whitesnake, Tesla, Sebastian Bach, Lita Ford, Mr. Big, Slaughter, Great White, Danger Danger, Firehouse, Big Noize, Black and Blue, Hurtsmile, Faster Pussycat and Pretty Boy Floyd. Pre- Sale Thursday, Feb. 3, Discounted 2-Day Packages on sale Friday, February 4, If Available, Single-Day Tickets On Sale Friday March 4."

 

 

Thursday, January 27, 2011

GET READY TO BE CURSED FOR THE THIRD TIME: Multinational Melodic Metallers Eden's Curse have released the cover artwork and track listing for their forthcoming third album Trinity due out on March 18 via AFM Records. The artwork was designed by the bands long term graphic artist Thomas Ewerhard, whose previous work includes the likes of Avantasia, Edguy, James LaBrie and Asia amongst others. The standard track listing for Trinity is as follows: 1. Trinitas Sanctus (Intro) 2. Trinity 3. Saints Of Tomorrow 4. No Holy Man (Feat. James LaBrie) 5. Guardian Angel 6. Can't Fool The Devil 7. Rivers Of Destiny 8. Dare To Be Different 9. Children Of The Tide 10. Black Widow (Feat. Andi Deris) 11. Jerusalem Sleeps 12. Rock 'N' Roll Children. The AFM Records release will feature We Climb as an exclusive European bonus track, whilst the Metal Mayhem (US) version will include Never The Sinner; whereas a cover of the Dokken classic Unchain The Night and Guardian Angel (Acoustic Version) will appear on the Japanese release via Spiritual Beast. To hear samples from Trinity visit www.myspace.com/edenscurse or facebook.dj/edenscurse. More Trinity updates can be found at www.EdensCurse.com.   ERIC MARTIN BEST OF FOR MR. VOCALIST SERIES: Sony Japan are rounding out the Eric Martin Mr. Vocalist series with a 'best of' compilation - Mr. Vocalist Best - due out in Japan March 23. There are two versions - a limited edition 2CD/1DVD set and a single CD regular version. Ltd Ed. version - Includes a cover Inori sung in English, newly recorded tracks, and more on two discs. Limited edition includes a bonus DVD with music videos for "Pride," "Itsuka no Merry Christmas feat. Eri Miyamoto," concert footage "from Mr. Vocalist - Special Night In Tokyo" and more. CD Japan Pre-Order. Regular Vers. Pre-Order. AVENUE OF ALLIES NEW RELEASES NEXT WEEK: This week Avenue Of Allies will release four brand new albums all due on January 28 - Miss Behaviour - Last Woman Standing, Danger Zone - Line Of Fire, Moritz – Undivided, Hell In The Club - Let The Games Begin. Just in time for the release Hell In The Club have completed their debut video for the first single On The Road taken from their good-time Rock'n'Roll record "Let The Games Begin". The HD version is now available on you tube:   While you are visiting youtube please also check out the following videos: Miss Behaviour's "Till We Meet Again": www.youtube.com/watch?v=SchX6n6EQZg, Moritz "Should've Been Gone" : www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGAXcu5sWro, Danger Zone album preview: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Akri44lWf40.   xxxxxx MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated a day early - as I will be away for 4 days for the last little break of the summer. Next news update will be Tuesday and business as normal from then on. In today's MRX update - just a couple of new features: Cheap Trick - Austin City Limits, March 2010 and Cats Can Fly (Canada, 1986). MRX Membership Info.

 

 

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

REVIEWS UPDATED: New Reviews online today - Magnum, Bad habit, TNT, Jeff Scott Soto, Hurtsmile, Faithheaer, Fabri Kiareli's FEAST, Fire and Perfect World. Read the latest reviews. BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION TO HIGH VOLTAGE: Black Country Communion is pleased to confirm that they will perform on the Main Stage at the celebrated High Voltage Festival on Sunday July 24th in London's Victoria Park. High Voltage will be the band's only UK festival appearance during the summer of 2011. Other bands confirmed for High Voltage include Judas Priest, Dream Theater, Jethro Tull, and the Michael Schenker Group. Black Country Communion is the Anglo-American rock supergroup that features vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Trapeze, Black Sabbath), drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin), keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater) and blues-rock guitarist/vocalist Joe Bonamassa. Hughes and Bonamassa originally appeared at the inaugural High Voltage festival in 2010, with Hughes singing for Heaven & Hell in tribute to his late friend, Ronnie James Dio. Black Country Communion's self-titled debut album was released in September 2010 to much critical acclaim. It entered the official UK album chart at #13 and shot straight to #1 in the official UK rock album chart. BCC's debut was placed at #3 in Classic Rock magazine's "Critics Album of the Year" poll, while Planet Rock radio listeners voted them as the Best New Band of 2010. Black Country Communion are currently mixing their second studio album with Kevin Shirley, the album is scheduled for release in June 2011. High Voltage tickets are priced £99 for the weekend and £56.50 per day, VIP tickets are available at £105.00 per day, and £199.00 for the weekend (stbf). For further info about BCC and how to order tickets, visit: www.highvoltagefestival.com. HIGH VOLTAGE & DOWNLOAD 2011 – LINE UP ANNOUNCEMENTS: Following the exciting announcement that heavy metal legends Judas Priest will play their farewell festival performance as High Voltage headliners and metal heroes Dream Theater will be closing the weekend with their only 2011 UK festival performance, we are delighted to announced that joining them on the main stage is none other than heavy rock supergroup Black Country Communion, featuring Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath) on vocals and bass, Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin) on drums, Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater) on keyboards, and Joe Bonamassa (the blues-rock solo star) on guitar and vocals. The band released its debut album in 2010 to widespread critical acclaim and will not be performing at any other UK festival this year. They will be joined on the main stage by Michael Schenker Group led by the guitar hero who made his name in the 1970s with two iconic bands – Britain's UFO and Germany's Scorpions. We're also thrilled to reveal that the legendary Jethro Tull – led by charismatic singer and flute player Ian Anderson and guitarist Martin Barre – are set to headline the Prog Stage; this is a UK exclusive, Tull's only UK show of 2011. Following a lengthy hiatus two cult prog bands have reformed to join us on the Prog Stage, Spock's Beard will perform another UK festival exclusive and British heroes Caravan add to the occasion alongside Mostly Autumn, Pallas and The Enid. For further info about how to order tickets, visit: www.highvoltagefestival.com. And for the record - the line-up for Download Festival (UK, June 1-12) is: Alice Cooper, Alter Bridge, Avenged Sevenfold, Black Veil Brides, Buckcherry, Bullet For My Valentine, Clutch, Danzig, Escape The Fate, Fm, Gaslight Anthem, Gwar, Hollywood Undead, Korn, Linkin Park, Masters Of Reality, Mr Big, Pendulum, Rise To Remain, Rob Zombie, System Of A Down, The Cult, The Damned Things, Thin Lizzy. www.downloadfestival.co.uk. EUROPE BACK TO THE UK: Following their knockout performances at 2010's iTunes and Sonisphere Festivals, Swedish rockers Europe will embark on their nationwide "Balls and Banners" UK tour in February 2011. Support on all dates will come from Voodoo Johnson. Full dates 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 regionally and at £18 in London, are available from 0844 477 2000, www.ticketweb.co.uk and www.tixdaq.com/europe-tickets. R.I.P.: Trigger bassist Tom Nigra passes: "It is with deepest sadness and sorrow that we announce the death of our good friend Tom Nigra, who passed away on Sunday, January 23rd. His passing has been a terrible and unexpected loss. He was diagnosed with a stage IV glioblasoma brain tumor in October, and came down with pneumonia last week. Once his condition got worse he was in little pain and did not have to endure any suffering. Tom was a talented musician full of life and joy, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. I will share the memorial service details when arrangements are made." Additionally I must sadly report that Alexandre França of Brazilian band Silent was killed in that country's recent storms and flooding. R.I.P both Tom and Alexandre. MELODIC BRIEFS: Modern Superstar continue their media campaign in preparation for their debut release re-titled 'Under My Skin'. 'Under My Skin' is produced by Ty Sims (Bombay Black) with the cover art being designed by world famous tattoo artist and television personality Tattoo Tony Rodriguez. 'Under My Skin' is tentatively scheduled for a May 2011 release. Modern Superstar was chosen by Tattoo Tony to be the featured music act for his new reality TV. show 'Tattoo Tony's Under My Skin'. The theme song was also penned by Modern Superstar. Final taping of 'Tattoo Tony's Under My Skin' is set for Feb 9th in Asbury Park, NJ. Modern Superstar recently filmed an episode of 'All Jack'd Up' for the CMT channel that will air in February. The band is also working on two videos to coincide with the 'Under My Skin' release. One of Sweden finest Sanchez are finally back with a brand new melodic rock & rock n roll package. Late spring 2011 will see the release of the long awaited studio album Run The Streets. Preformed by the new line-up and produced by the band. Music that will get you laid, ever and over again! For the true fan of "Danger Danger, Firehouse, White Lion and Dokken"! www.7hart.de/sanchez-signs-with-7hard. ADLER'S APPETITE EUROPEAN TOUR FINALIZED: Adler's Appetite finalized the routing for their first European tour in almost 5 years, which is set to kick off on Feb. 3rd in Rome Italy. "I can't wait to get back out on the road and play the new songs for our European fans" says Adler. Adler's Appetite's line-up for the tour will be: Steven Adler (drums), Chip Z'nuff (Bass) Rick Stitch (vocals) Michael Thomas (guitar) and Robo (guitar - filling in for Alex Grossi, who will be touring with Quiet Riot). European rockers Ramblin' Boy and Knock Out Kaine have been added as support for their upcoming European tour, Final dates are listed below. For additional information check out www.adlersappetiteonline.com. 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 09 - De Verlichte Geest, Roeselare, Belgium Feb 10 - The Rock Temple, Kerkrade, Netherlands Feb 11 - Le Forum, Vaureal, France Feb 12 - Rock City, Uster, Switzerland Feb 14 - Cafe Del Theatre, Lleida, Spain Feb 15 - Durango Club, Valencia, Spain Feb 16 - Porta Caeli, Valladolid, Spain Feb 17 - Sala Live, Madrid, Spain Feb 18 - Sala Inferno, Vigo, Spain Feb 19 - Playa Club, La Coruna, Spain Feb 20 - Musicbox Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal 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 Feb 28 - The Underworld, London, UK Tickets

 

 

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

TWINSPIRITS REVEAL THEIR LEGACY: Twinspirits - Legacy / released: February 18 / Lion Music Promo Page w/Streaming Audio: www.lionmusic.com/cd/legacy.htm. Italian progressive metal band Twinspirits return with their third album Legacy on 18th February 2011. "Legacy" takes all the best aspects of the bands previous two releases and adds a heavier dynamic and more cohesive sound thanks to a fixed line-up, the same that delivered the highly praised "The Forbidden City" and spent time on the road promoting that release. "Legacy" marks the second album of vocalist Göran Nyström in the band, and his voice delivers another commanding performance over the material penned by band mastermind and keyboardist Daniele Liverani. Guitarist Tommy Ermolli takes a heavier role this time round whilst the rhythm section of bassist Alberto Rigoni and drummer Dario Ciccioni hold down the complex patterns with precision. "Legacy" is divided in 2 main parts. In the first part we have 6 powerful straight ahead songs, still being progressive in nature and with a more direct feel to them than has been heard from the band before. The second part of the album is a multi suite movement, "The Endless Sleep", divided in 5 songs (symphonic intro + 4 songs) that is more like an album within an album being very theatrical and visionary. On the albums lyrical slant Liverani comments, "Lyrically the first 6 songs are independent to the suite, and are cover subject, including personal experiences, thoughts about life in this era, and different kind of reflections of human beings into this modern world we are living in. The second part, the suite, is covering a concept story that runs through a journey that the main character is undertaking after a premature death, whereby he's discovering a role that he's involved in after he passes away, and the meeting with a superior entity that is giving him a sort of second chance to get back to the human life to accomplish a human rescue mission as a second millennium messiah...a very struggling story that will be revealed part by part of "the endless sleep" 30 min. suite. The key points of the concept are in part "I'm leaving this world" where the main character describes the moment he passes away and his extra body experience, the song "Legacy" where we have the relationship between him and the superior entity that is explaining his new role in the afterlife, the songs "what am I supposed to do" is a very moving moment where he meets his parents while he's back to human life temporary, and the final part "tell me the truth" continues the description of the relationship of the main character with his afterlife guide mentor". Twinspirits will be getting back on the road in spring 2011 promoting the new album with a tour and some European festival appearances. A promotional video for "Slave To This World" was released in January 2011 and has won strong praise from the bands fan base and beyond. View at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckU0hL_awKY. Track Listing 01. Senseless. 02. Pay For Their Art. 03. Blind Soul. 04. Slave To This World. 05. Don't Kill Your Dreams. 06. Over And Over Again. 07. The Endless Sleep / The Endless Sleep. 08. The Endless Sleep / What Am I Supposed To Do. 09. The Endless Sleep / Legacy. 10. The Endless Sleep / I'm Leaving This World. 11. The Endless Sleep / Tell Me The Truth. Musicians: Göran Nyström: Lead and backing vocals, Tommy Ermolli : Guitars, Daniele Liverani: Keyboards, Alberto Rigoni: Bass, Dario Ciccioni: Drums. WebLinks: www.twinspirits.net / www.myspace.com/Twinspiritsband / www.twitter.com/twinspiritsband / www.facebook.com/pages/Twinspirits/30428479302?ref=ts.   NEW FRONTIERS RECORDS PROMO SPOT: The latest Frontiers Records promo spot can be viewed right here:   MAGNUM HIT #3 AND PREP FOR EUROPEAN TOUR: Magnum at number 3 in the UK Rock album charts with their new album The Visitation! Congrats guys: www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/chart/rockalbums. The band's upcoming tour dates include the following shows: 9/3/11, Debaser Medis, Stockholm, Sweden 10/3/11, Brew House, Gothenburg, Sweden 11/3/11, Postbahnhof, Berlin, Germany 12/3/11, Hellraiser, Leipzig, Germany 13/3/11, Exit Chmelnice, Prague, Czech R 15/3/11, Ampere, Munich, Germany 16/3/11, Hirsch, Nurnberg, Germany 18/3/11, Capitol, Mannheim, Germany 19/3/11, Kaminwerk, Memmingen, Germany 21/3/11, Z7, Pratteln, Switzerland 22/3/11, Jazzhaus, Freiberg, Germany 23/3/11, Matrix, Bochum, Germany 25/3/11, Colos-Saal, Aschaffenburg, Germany 26/3/11, Rock E.V., Winterbach, Germany 27/3/11, Kantine, Koln, Germany 29/3/11, Posthalle, Wurzburg, Germany 31/3/11, Fabrik, Hamburg, Germany 1/4/11, Rosenhof , Osnabruck, Germany 2/4/11, Music Hall , Worpswede, Germany 3/4/11, Musikzentrum, Hannover, Germany 4/4/11, Garage, Saarbrucken, Germany 5/4/11, Biebob, Vosselaar, Belgium 12/4/11, The Tivoli, Buckley, UK 13/4/11, The Garage , Glasgow, UK 14/4/11, Academy 1, Newcastle, UK 16/4/11, Stanley Theatre, Liverpool, UK 17/4/11, Assembly, Leamington, UK 18/4/11, Academy, Oxford, UK 19/4/11, The Waterfront, Norwich, UK 20/4/11, The Corporation , Sheffield, UK 22/4/11, Picturedrome, Holmfirth, UK 23/4/11, Wulfrun Hall, Wolverhampton, UK 24/4/11, The Brook , Southampton, UK 27/4/11, Rock City , Nottingham, UK 28/4/11, Academy 2, Manchester, UK 29/4/11, The Park & Dare Theatre, Treorchy, UK 30/4/11, Shepherd's Bush Empire, London, UK 1/5/11, Academy, Bristol, UK IN THE STUDIO - CHICKENFOOT VS VAN HALEN: Chickenfoot to Enter the Studio this Month: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/chickenfoot-0121-2011 / "Chickenfoot are set to enter the studio on January 29 to begin work on their next album. Speaking to Rich Rogenmoser of Rich's Music Exchange at the recently-completed NAMM trade show, bassist Michael Anthony said the band also will "hopefully" tour later this year. "If people want to hear it, we're out there to play it," Anthony said. The bassist was asked if playing in Chickenfoot was still fun for him. "Oh, yeah," he responded. "At this point in my life and career, I won't do it unless it's fun. One of the great things … is that I can do what I love to do. The other guys in Chickenfoot feel the same way." Anthony did not address the issue of who would fill in for drummer Chad Smith, should Chickenfoot indeed go on tour. It is presumed that Smith's obligations to the Red Hot Chili Peppers will take precedent over any road plans for Chickenfoot." MELODIC BRIEFS: The Outfield Tomorrow January 25th, 2011: The release of The Very Best of The Outfield Remastered, which includes #4 AOR Regional Hit 'California Sun'. Grab your copy tomorrow or order online! Let's show The Outfield our support and help get 'California Sun' to #1!!! Text, call or email: (513) 360-8891 OR studio@classxradio.com. www.facebook.com/pages/The-Outfield/127763673863. Glam recording artist Irene Roll has released a new single entitled Never Stop Rock-n-Roll. The single is available worldwide at many online distribution centers including: iTunes, Amazon MP3, Spotify, MediaNet, eMusic, Zune, Nokia, Shockhound, Napster, Thumbplay and IMVU. Irene Roll is a rock-n-roll outlaw on a mission to revive glam metal. She writes glam rock, glam metal and sleaze songs. Her songs are well crafted with catchy melodies and are about real life topics that grab your attention. With a powerful voice and catchy songs, she is destined to revive the glam rock scene in the upcoming decade. Official Website: www.IreneRoll.com. Benighted Soul's first album (French Progressive Symphonic Metal) is out on February 11 on Season of Mist. You can hear samples from the album at www.benightedsoul.com. Vocalist Paul Laine has a Facebook page: www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Paul-Laine/175767545798865. And new recording info on Paul is coming! Frankie Banali talks Quiet Riot and more: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lD-3FlHGiU8. HEAVY METAL'S TRIBUTE TO THE GENIUS OF FRANK SINATRA: Not sure whether this is funny...cool...or tragic! But, for the record - Press Release / "On 28 March 2011, Eagle Rock 's Armoury Records is delighted release the truly unique SIN-atra album. This is another mind and genre-bending triumph from the team that brought you We Wish You A Metal Xmas and, put simply, is the world of heavy metal 's tribute to the genius of Frank Sinatra. Featuring a great line-up of artists, SIN-atra offers a set of totally original versions of classic Frank Sinatra songs. The album features twelve songs made famous by Ol ' Blue Eyes which are given a radical and individual new treatment from some of the finest voices in rock including members of Anthrax, Twisted Sister, Deep Purple, Queensryche, Mr Big, Warrant and Cheap Trick with the backing of a superb band led by guitarist Bob Kulick (Kiss/Meat Loaf). Track Listing: 1) New York, New York (Devin Townsend) 2) I 've Got You Under My Skin (Glenn Hughes) 3) Summerwind (Geoff Tate) 4) It Was A Very Good Year (Dee Snider) 5) Witchcraft (Tim Ripper Owens) 6) Fly Me To The Moon (Robin Zander) 7) Lady Is A Tramp (Eric Martin) 8) I 've Got The World On A String (Dug Pinnick) 9) Love And Marriage (Elias Soriano) 10) Strangers In The Night (Joey Belladonna) 11) High Hopes (Franky Perez) 12) That 's Life (Jani Lane). These classics are re-imagined musically by the SIN-atra house band which features Bob Kulick (guitar); Brett Chassen (drums); Billy Sheehan (bass); Doug Katsaros (keyboards & orchestrations); Richie Kotzen (lead guitar on That's Life). The songs are known to everyone but you 've never heard them quite like this before!"

 

 

Monday, January 24, 2011

FIREFEST 2011 - TICKET AND VENUE ANNOUNCEMENT: Press Release / "Hi Guys and Gals, First of all, on behalf of EVERYONE involved in Firefest, let me thank you for your continued support. It's truly amazing the interest and belief you show in us each year. The amount of e-mails and messages we receive from people continue to prove to us that there is still a huge demand for Firefest and the melodic hard rock genre that we proudly represent. Firefest 2011 will be a three day event. Friday night will take place at Trent University, Nottingham whilst Saturday and Sunday will take place at Rock City, Nottingham. We are currently putting the finishing touches to the background work that needs to be completed, updating the web site, checking and rechecking hotels, flights, venues, designing artwork, posters etc. etc., which we will have completed by the latter end of this week. The full announcement will take place on the Steve Price Show on ARFM (www.arfm.co.uk) on Sunday January 30th between 6pm and 9pm GMT. If you are listening in from Europe that is 7pm CET. Listeners in the USA can check here (www.worldtimezone.com) for your local time that corresponds to 6pm GMT. We're not going to give the game away just yet, but we will tell you we have 17 bands over 3 days, 13 of which will be making their first appearance at Firefest. One or two surprises, which for some reason has become the norm, and one or two nailed on favourites making a most welcome return. What we would ask of you is that you continue to show us your support by purchasing tickets EARLY directly from Firefest as it helps us enormously to deal with the HUGE costs involved in staging the show every year. We will be offering an early bird incentive to save those that purchase tickets early a nice discount on Saturday and Sunday tickets in return for your immediate support. As usual, we are devoid of any major commercial sponsors (what's new ??) and apart from a few dedicated and superbly generous individuals, once again we have to paddle our own canoe with regard to the £100,000 cost of staging this event. If you're in a position to bring any type of sponsorship or finance to the table please do not hesitate to contact any member of the team and we will be pleased to discuss any suggestions that you may have. So, there you have it folks, all will be revealed on Sunday January 30, and I know I'm not the only member of the team that is excited by the prospect of seeing the show, in fact everybody involved has deemed this line up to be right up there with the best. We look forward to seeing you all in Nottingham once again for Firefest, and please do feel free to contact us through the website or Facebook with any comments or suggestions you feel are relevant. WebLinks: www.thefirefest.com or www.facebook.com (Firefest Official) Finally, to those of you who will be partying their way through the Steve Price show next Sunday night (Hi Alice, Dean Buckley and the rest of the Welsh gang!!) we hope you will raise a glass with us at the end of the announcement in approval of the prospect of another fine weekend of melodic hard rock!" Cheers...Kieran, Bruce and the gang." THE JAN HOLBERG PROJECT FEATURING EX-RAINBOW/DEEP PURPLE VOCALIST JOE LYNN TURNER: The Norwegian bassist/songwriter Jan Holberg has joined forces with legendary singer Joe Lynn Turner to release an exciting debut album, a move that will thrill the fans around the world. The Jan Holberg Project is preparing to release the debut album March 28, marking a huge stage in the career of Jan Holberg. Jan, who lives in Trondheim, Norway, has just put the final touches to the album and is now preparing for the imminent release that will hopefully build upon his fan base, and get his music heard by more people than ever. The album, Sense of Time, consists of ten original songs from Jan, each providing a combination of high-energy playing, and melodious vocals by Joe Lynn Turner. The album was mainly recorded in Reykjavik, Iceland, and some of Europe's finest musicians participate on the album. Jan says, "The idea behind the album is that music should be free, there are no musical borders, on this album. You can hear ballads, pop-songs, instrumentals and funk. This is what I am all about as a musician." Turner adds, "I had a great time stretching out the vocal style on Jan's songs. I'm always interested in something different with quality. Looking forward to the concert dates!" JLT with Jan Holberg 27 April - Blaest (Trondheim) 28 April - John Dee (Oslo) 30 April - Hemnehallen (Hemne) (all dates with Jan Holberg are in Norway) Sample Audio Available Here: www.nordicrecords.no/frontpage/artists/jan-holberg-project / www.janholberg.com. A FOREIGNERS JOURNEY TOUR DATES 2011: A Foreigner's Journey, the UK's most talked about and respected tribute band to both Foreigner & Journey continue to tour the UK, up and coming shows as follows: 28.01.11 - Millennium Music Hall, Cardiff tel:02920 340737 29.01.11 - The Venue, Birdwell, Barnsley tel:01226 742377 04.02.11 - Moses Gate, Bolton tel:0124 576278 05.02.11 - The Robin 2, Wolverhampton tel:01902 401211 17.02.11 - Bootleggers, Kendal tel:01539 723824 12.03.11 - Picturedrome, Holmefirth tel:01484 689759 26.03.11 - The Diamond, Sutton In Ashfield tel:01623 456617 For list of all 2011 tour dates check out: www.aforeignersjourney.com. RE-INTRODUCING PRISCILLA: While digging through the trash, and scoping out the gutters, FnA Records has uncovered its dirtiest, sleaziest, trashiest band to date - Priscilla. Now don't get us wrong, Priscilla is quite comfortable with these descriptions and even embrace them. They love what they do with a passion and often compare themselves to organized harmonic chaos. Priscilla hails from the industrial confines of Cleveland, Ohio...a town that introduced the world to rock n' roll, and that gave us the anarchy of The Dead Boys, the industrial grind of Nine Inch Nails, and the pounding fury that is Mushroomhead. It will now introduce the world to the final bombastic mechanism in the evolution of sleaze rock...Priscilla. The organized, harmonic chaos that is Priscilla will put a bullet into the head of mainstream, commercial music once and for all. As far from the other side of conservative as one can possibly imagine, Priscilla is sweaty, hard, x-rated, pornographic rock n' roll; destructive, yet, melodic, and always rebellious and cocky. Priscilla combines forces spawned from the ashes of such luminaries as The Marky Ramone Band and St. James (Jaime St. James of Black N' Blue), Priscilla presents a well-oiled and cohesive brand of sleaze rock that is all its own. This band is no corporate-sponsored, family friendly house of cards...this is code blue suicide played at an eardrum-shattering peak volume and comes to you from the back alleys of the slums. Their sound has been compared to an all night orgy fueled with Quaaludes and cocaine, and their look crawls straight from the glam rock gutter. Lead vocalist Brad Slitt, looking like a Beverly Hills male prostitute that just spent the last 24 hours on a heroin bender, is akin to an angel with wings that the devil painted black, just as the title track from Eight Lives Gone suggests. A junkie's wet dream. He is the embodiment of the self-destructive movement of a generation hell bent on conquering the universe with their own backstreet religion, and his vocal delivery is controlled destruction, backed by an all out, high decibel six string assault. Slitt is as much an artist and a visionary as he is a musician. The new messiah of the sleaze generation has arrived. Having already toured the entire United States and now bent on world domination, Priscilla isn't going away anytime soon. Each and every song on Eight Lives Gone is just as melodic and memorable as it is merciless and methodical with its intent to deconstruct the boundaries of the ordinary rock world and set conventions on their head. Give it just one listen and you'll be forever infected. These songs are, indeed, 13 anthems for a degenerate world. Toss it down, alter your perception, and throw it back up...Priscilla isn't preaching to the herd...they're creating an altogether new one. For More Information about Priscilla, Please contact FNA Records: www.fnarecords.net. MELODIC BRIEFS: Broken Melody play an exclusive acoustic tribute to Steve Lee of Gotthard. The song is called: Another Star. You can find the video at the following link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=siiFjPr_RKQ. With the release of Stairway's 'Interregnum' album last year and the success of the 2010 Christmas single 'Christmas Merry Christmas', Stairway release their new radio single 'Enter The Light' taken from the 'Interregnum' album. 'Enter The Light' is a blistering metal track and has been re-mastered and given that extra mouth watering treatment by Dennis Ward of Pink Cream 69, Bob Catley and House of Lords fame. This new radio single sees the band driving forward and continuing on into 2011. Visit: www.stairwayonline.co.uk. A personal message sent by John Waite for the release of the album Rough and Tumble and his upcoming tour has been posted at: johnwaitethegreatest.web-log.nl/johnwaitethegreatest/2011/01/johns-message-to-the-european-fans-.html. Kiss Otaku Interview with Sean Delaney, Known as the Fifth Member of Kiss from 1998 - discusses the book he had just started on. He talks about pre-KISS, the solo albums, how he got involved with Peter Criss' solo album and more: michaelbrandvold.com/blog/2011/01/1998-interview-with-the-fifth-member-of-kiss-sean-delaney. The recordings for the new Fireforce album March On, are already done under the supervision of R.D. Liapakis (Mystic Prophecy, Suicidal Angels, Orden Ogan, Eldritch, etc.). Guest guitars solos by Constantine, guitar player of Mystic Prohpecy (follower of GUS G) and Decsending. Eric Philippe, well known for his work with Rhapsody, Riot, Mob Rules, TNT and many others, created and realized the Fireforce logo and artwork. Release Date: 25th March 2011 over the 7Hard label. For press an news check out: www.fireforce.be / www.7hart.de / www.rockngrowl.com / www.trendxl.de. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new downloads: - Tour De Force - Demos (UK - 7 Tracks) - Tradia - Demos (US - 8 Tracks) - Triangle - Demos (US 87 - 4 Tracks) - Tryx - ST (Demo CD - 10 Tracks) - Unruly Child - Demos (US 92 - 4 Tracks) MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Friday, January 21, 2011

PAUL YOUNG - CHRONICLES DUE IN MARCH: Escape Music are pleased to announce the release of the Paul Young album Chronicles on the 25th March. Paul is sadly no longer with us, but this CD is a reminder to us all of what a hugely talented man he was. Paul will be remembered always for his recordings with Sad Cafe and, of course, Mike and the Mechanics, The album also features renowned musicians such as Graham Gouldman and Eric Stewart of 10cc, Victor Emerson and Ian Wilson of Sad Cafe, and of course Paul Carrack and Mike Rutherford of Mike and the Mechanics. Your Shoes will be released as a single on the 21st February. Track Listing: 01 House Of Many Nations, 02 Your Shoes, 03 Grace Of God (Duet With Paul Carrack), 04 Loss Of Innocence, 05 Frozen Heart, 06 Two Wrongs, 07 Water Now The Seed, 08 Here Comes The Future, 09 Everything, 10 One Heart, 11 We Did Nothing Wrong, 12 I'm In Heaven Again, 13 Everyday Hurts Recorded Live with Mike and The Mechanics (bonus track with first pressing only). Paul was born in South Manchester, England in June, 1947, and soon became a well-known and much loved "Wythenshawe lad"… He formed his first group "Johnny Dark & the Midnights" in 1962 whilst still at school, and very quickly made a name for himself as a front man and lead singer… so much so that following an appearance at a local hall, he was invited to join the now legendary beat group "The Toggery Five". The early 1970's saw Paul as a solo artist signed to CBS records, before teaming up with Ian Wilson from "Greasy Bear" to form "Gyro" a popular local rock band on Manchester's buzzing live music scene… Gyro were later to become involved with a project led by composer/engineer/producer Davy Rohl, who put together Mandalaband and released two excellent albums featuring many Manchester musicians, including Paul and Ian. Gyro & Mandalaband joined forces around 1977 and became one of Manchester's best live bands Sad Café. The band released "Fanx Ta-Ra" in 1977 to critical acclaim, and an extensive catalogue of material was to follow, most of which was penned by Paul, and several singles which "Everyday Hurts" climbed to the top of the charts and albums emerged from Polydor/A&M/Chrysalis/ and other record labels until the band finally broke up following "Politics Of Existing" in the mid 1980's before he went on to join Mike Rutherford (Genesis), and become a full time member of Mike & The Mechanics in 1985. Paul was to remain with Mike and the Mechanics with many hits under his belt and tour the world until his untimely death in July 2000, following sudden heart failure. A few years after he passed away, unfinished material he had been working on was recovered from his home studio, a total of thirty five songs, some of which have since been carefully recorded and completed by musician friends and collaborators who had known and worked with him… so now, after more than ten years, we are to hear these "NEW" recordings for the very first time, will be released by ESCAPE MUSIC, which means that for Paul Young fans everywhere, the dream is still very much alive! Produced by Alistair Gordon and Martin Kronlund. 'Grace Of God' duet with Paul Carrack / Guitars: Mike Rutherford, Martin Kronlund, Graham Gouldman, Eric Stewart, Michael byron Hehir, Victor Emerson, Ian Wilson / Keyboards: Alistair Gordon, Victor Emerson, Steve Pigott, Per Aronson, Paul Carrack, Eric Stewart / Bass: Des Tong, Martin Kronlund, Graham Gouldman / Drums: Dave Irving / Backing Vocals: Alistair Gordon, Carl Davis, Ian Wilson, Steve Butler, Sue Quin, Mark Menzies, Graham Gouldman / Saxophone: Lenni / Programming: Steve Pigott.   JOHN SHANKS CONFIRMS VAN HALEN WORK: Producer John Shanks confirmed he was in the studio with Van Halen, tweeting the following message earlier today: "Here we go kids.....vh." LATEST ROCK CANDY RECORDS TITLES: Both are available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price of £10.99 for the next two weeks ending on February 7. Greg Lake 'S/T' CANDY091 / As a founding member of progressive rock giants King Crimson and ELP, Greg Lake's presence during the 1970s was both impressive and influential. ELP's impact on both a commercial and creative level was omnipresent, notching up a succession of chart busting albums and sold out shows the world over. So, when the band disbanded in 1978,all eyes were naturally on Greg's next move. Choosing to pursue a solo career, Greg fled to Los Angeles and worked with a number of well known session players (including most of Toto) in an effort to craft a musical direction that would allow him enough breathing space to escape the confines of the progressive rock style that he had been wedded to for so long. Moving back to London, Greg finally focused on a direction that would marry finely honed progressive rock with memorable songs – including one co-written by Bob Dylan. This was accomplished with the aid of a supporting cast of top rate musicians, including ex Sensational Alex Harvey Band members Ted McKenna and Tommy Eyre together with super guitarist Gary Moore. Indeed, Moore's presence was keenly felt; he even provided the lead track 'Nuclear Attack' (previously recorded by Moore on his Dirty Fingers album). Greg's debut solo album (originally released in 1981) was a comprehensive return to form for this progressive rock demi-god. Track Listing: 1. Nuclear Attack 2. Love You Too Much 3. It Hurts 4. Black And Blue 5. Retribution Drive 6. Long Goodbye 7. The Lie 8. Someone 9. Let Me Love You once Before You Go 10. For Those Who Dare. Greg Lake 'Manoeuvres' CANDY092 / When ELP disbanded in 1978, following their poorly received 'Love Beach' album, the smart money was on Greg Lake to emerge phoenix like from the ashes as part of yet another progressive rock supergroup. Few would have expected him to opt for a solo career. Commencing with 1981's self titled debut, and using a top rate backing band, Greg's second solo album - originally released in 1983 - continued his journey from progressive rock maestro to a more challenging song orientated minstrel. With top talent, including the brilliant Gary Moore, 'Manoeuvres' is a riveting soupcon of melodic pop prog mixed with carefully executed AOR, including lashings of blistering guitar work from the fret board of Mr Moore. The songs are both accessible and yet precise, and there is even a co-writing contribution from Sweet guitarist Andy Scott. The style is clearly edging closer to the melodic progressive rock of Asia and latter day Yes, boasting well structured songs, meticulous arrangements and contributions from a superlative roster of high calibre musicians. Track Listing: 1. Manoeuvres 2. Too Young To Love 3. Paralysed 4. A Woman Like You 5. I Don't Wanna Lose Your Love Tonight 6. It's You, You've Gotta Believe 7. Famous Last Words 8. Slave To Love 9. Haunted 10. I Don't Know Why I Still Love You.   xx NEW PRAYING MANTIS EP: February the 21th 2011 will see Praying Mantis release. A special limited edition EP Metalmorphosis to celebrate 30 years since the release of their critically acclaimed Album "Time Tells No Lies" and include 5 songs some of which are from the original album re-recorded by the current Mantis line up. The songs the band have chosen are: 1. Children of The Earth 2010 2. Praying Mantis 2010 3. Lovers to the Grave 2010 4. Panic in the Streets 2010 5. Captured City 2010. All these tracks have been completely re-recorded. Band: Chris Troy – Bass & Vocals, Tino Troy – Guitars & Vocals, Andy Burgess – Guitars, Benjy Reid – Drums, Mike Freeland – Vocals. 2009 saw the band release "Sanctuary" and the reviews and feedback have been fantastic. As a follow up and a celebration of 30 years of having the opportunity to perform, write and record the band have recorded "Metalmorphosis". "Metalmorphosis" will be available via praying mantis's websites from 21st February 2011 as a special limited edition in a embossed Digipack. Praying Mantis selling the EP "Metalmorphosis" at £5.50 + posting to order via the website and on iTunes. The EP will also be available at the live shows throughout 2011. WebLinks: www.praying-mantis.com / www.myspace.com/prayingmantisrock.   MALISON ROGUE SIGNS WITH INNER WOUND RECORDINGS: Inner Wound Recordings are proud to announce the signing of the Swedish heavy metal band Malison Rogue to the label. The bands self-titled debut album was produced by Mats Levén [ex. Yngwie Malmsteen, Therion, Treat] and mastered by Micke Lind [Dio, Candlemass, Talisman] and will be released in Europe on March 25th. The Malison Rogue sound can be described as a mix between Iron Maiden, Queensryche and Fates Warning. The album contains a great mix of fast songs like "We're All Born Sinners" and "The Pain You Cause", the fantastic mid-tempo track "The Griever", the powerful ballad "My Mistakes" and the epic "Scars". Together with bands like Enforcer and Steelwing, Malison Rogue forms a new wave of Swedish heavy metal that will take the world by storm! "Malison Rogue" track listing: 01. Friend or Foe? 02. The Pain You Cause 03. The Griever 04. My Mistakes 05. This Lonely Road 06. Scars 07. We're All Born Sinners 08. Everything Fades. Visit the official Malison Rogue MySpace profile for more information and to check out clips from the album: www.myspace.com/malisonrogue. JOHN WAITE LIVE DATES ANNOUNCED: Legendary singer John Waite will tour again in Europe in Spring 2011. The dates announced so far: John Waite – Rough & Tumble Tour 2011 Presented by: Musix, Good Times, Rocks, Rock Hard (D), Break Out, Rock It! 19.04. D-Munich, Ampere (with Bonfire) 21.04. NL-Zaandam, De Kade 22.04. NL-Uden, De Pul 23.04. NL-Kerkrade, The Rock Temple 25.04. UK-Newcastle, The Cluny 26.04. UK-Pontefract, Manor Hotel 27.04. UK-Lancaster, Grand Theatre 29.04. D-Lorsch, Musiktheater Rex 02.05. CH-Uster, Rock City 04.05. D-Augsburg, Spectrum More Dates (Italy, UK, Germany) will be announced soon. Tour agency: Rockville Music (www.rockville-music.com) MR-X MONDAY: Forgive the lack of a MR-X update today - today was my 40th Birthday and I've been a little lax with the work. MR-X will be online Monday.

 

 

Thursday, January 20, 2011

AOR HEAVEN - NEW RELEASES FOR MARCH: China - Light In The Dark / 23.03.2011 / China always is a name which definitely needs to be mentioned when ones talks about Hard Rock from Switzerland. Their debut albums "China" and "Light In The Sky" still are regarded as classics of the genre. China during the years have reached the Swiss charts top 10 and the Japanese, German and English top 40 many times. Their new record "Light In The Dark" will be released on March 23rd, 2011 in Europe (excluding Switzerland) for the first time via Metal Heaven. This fifth release of the five-piece band marks another milestone in their career. The band certainly maintains their individuality while in recent years having developed so much. This record proves that this band is still good for surprises! The two producers from LA who have helped to shape the new CHINA sound are Chris Johnson (Buckcherry, Evanescence) and Michael Parnin (Steve Stevens, King's X). The limited edition contains three previously unreleased bonus tracks. The band is: Eric St. Michaels – Vocals, Claudio Matteo – Guitars, Mack Schildknecht – Guitars, Beat Kofmehl – Bass, Billy La Pietra – Drums. Track list: 1. Light Up The Dark 2. Hey Yo 3. She's So Hot 4. Girl On My Screen 5. Lonely Rider 6. Gates Of Heaven 7. On My Way 8. Stay 9. Deadly Sweet 10. Trapped In The City 11. Right Here, Right Now 12. Flesh And Bone 13. Rhythm Of The Flame* 14. Can't Call It Working* 15. Bad Case Of Loving You (Doctor Doctor)* (* = bonus tracks, limited edition only) Soundfiles in advance: Gates Of Heaven / Girl On My Screen / Hey Yo. WebLink: www.chinamusic.ch / www.metalheaven.net.   xx M.ill.ion - Sane And Insanity / 23.03.2011 / One of Scandinavia's top Hard Rock bands, M.ill.ion, is back with the seventh album "Sane And Insanity"! Recorded in Sweden during 2010 and mixed at the classy JM Studio where founder and bass man B.J Laneby teamed up with Martin Kronlund (Joe Lynn Turner, Phenomena, Paul Young a.o.) behind the soundboard. Introducing the new aces Andreas Grövle on guitar and Angelo Modafferi from Australia on keyboards, M.ill.ion has come up with a top production packed with melodic hard rock of the finest brand. M.ill.ion's history includes six highly acclaimed albums ("No.1", "We Ourselves & Us", "Electric", "Detonator", "Kingsize" and "Thrill Of The Chase", several national and international tours as headliner and as special guests and have shared stages and bills with the likes of Michael Schenker Group, Magnum, Nazareth, Halford, Status Quo, Saxon, TNT etc. Hitting the charts in Japan and having song material included on the EA Games "NHL" are other examples of M.ill.ion's capacity. The band has headlined one stage at the Sweden Rock Festival and broke it's attendance record, played the original Firefest (UK). Lately Rock Over Munich was followed by tours and dates in Italy, Scandinavia and Switzerland. When the studio sessions for the new album were finished the band was invited to headline the Stockholm Rock Out Festival (September 2010) joined by acts like U.D.O, Great White and John Corabi of Mötley Crüe. All five band members contributed to the songwriting of this entertaining 13 track album and a video of "Everyday Hero", produced by René U Valdez (Hardcore Superstar) is included on the limited edition. For fans of Whitesnake,Gotthard, KISS and Deep Purple, this is for you! Line-Up: Ulrich Carlsson, vocals, Andreas Grövle, guitar, Angelo Modafferi, keyboards, Per Westergren, Drums, B.J Laneby, bass. Tracklist: 1.Sea Of Fate (Intro), 2.Cry To Heaven, 3.Everyday Hero, 4.Tomorrow Never Dies, 5.I Raise My Glass, 6.Sane And Insanity, 7.Hell´S Gate, 8.Under Your Wings, 9.Fuel To My Heart, 10.Drama Queens, 11.Test Of Time, 12.Hate, 13.Seize The Day. Soundfiles in advance: Cry To Heaven / Seize The Day / Tomorrow Never Dies. WebLink: www.myspace.com/millionized.   xx JOE BONAMASSA VISITS THE DUST BOWL: Joe Bonamassa is set to release his 12th full-length solo album, Dust Bowl in the UK on March 21 and in the USA on March 22. The album will be promoted on Bonamassa's forthcoming 2011 Dust Bowl World Tour that will take in America, Canada, Europe, Asia and Australia. Dust Bowl is Bonamassa's 9th studio release on Provogue Records in Europe and his J&R Adventures label (which he created with long-time manager Roy Weisman) in the US and his 6th collaboration with Dust Bowl's producer, Kevin "Caveman" Shirley (Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, Black Crowes, Black Country Communion). Shirley most recently produced Bonamassa's 2010 release, Black Rock, which entered the UK album chart at #14 and 2010's self-titled debut album from Black Country Communion, the Bonamassa-helmed, British-American rock supergroup with Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath), Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin, Foreigner) and Derek Sherinian (Billy Idol, Dream Theatre). Recorded in sessions at Black Rock Studios in Santorini, Greece, Ben's Studio in Nashville, TN, The Cave in Malibu, CA and The Village in Los Angeles, CA, Dust Bowl combines the gritty, blues-based tones of Bonamassa's first albums with the fluid, genre-defying sounds he's mastered in the years since, plus a dose of Nashville in duets with legends John Hiatt and Vince Gill. "Dust Bowl," Shirley explains, "is very firmly rooted in the Blues, but definitely explores the outer reaches of the genre and showcases Joe's amazing virtuosity as he digs deep into his psyche in some lengthy and blistering guitar solos." "This is the best album we've ever done," adds Bonamassa. "I'm finding more inspiration in storytelling in my 30s, in writing songs that are about something more profound than 'my baby left me.' I like albums that are made with the right intentions and sound organic and a little rough around the edges, like a great band playing live in the room, and that's what we accomplished with Dust Bowl." Along with the best of intentions, Dust Bowl benefits from collaborations with the best of Nashville, legends Vince Gill and John Hiatt. Gill lends his signature guitar stylings to the John Hiatt/John Porter-penned "Tennessee Plates," on which Hiatt duets with Bonamassa. Gill also plays on "Sweet Rowena," a song he composed with frequent writing partner Pete Wasner. Arlan Scheirbaum, Beth Hart and Blondie Chaplin play on the Michael Kamen/Tim Curry track "No Love On The Street," and Glenn Hughes sings on the Paul Rodgers-penned "Heartbreaker." Other standout tracks include Bonamassa originals that showcase his storytelling, such as the album opener "Slow Train," an old-style British Blues song, "Black Lung Heartache," "The Last Matador of Bayonne," "The Whale That Swallowed Jonah" and the title song "Dust Bowl." In support of the album, Bonamassa's Dust Bowl World Tour includes the U.S., Canada and Europe as well as Australia and Asia, including Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore. Voted "Best Live Act of 2010" by Planet Rock Radio, Bonamassa's mesmerizing concert experience is set to get even better with the infusion of some of his best new music to date.   DON KIRSHNER, SHAPER OF HIT RECORDS, DIES AT 76: LA Times states: "Don Kirshner, the veteran music mogul who shepherded songs from a monstrously talented stable of young writers to the top of the pop charts in the 1960s, launched the career of the Monkees and then became a familiar face to millions of rock fans as impresario of his late-night music TV series in the 1970s, died Monday of heart failure in Boca Raton, Fla., where he had lived for the last decade, a family spokeswoman said Tuesday. He was 76. "Don Kirshner's Rock Concert" brought the biggest names in rock and pop music to television in live performances instead of the lip-synced sessions that often characterized rock music on television. Each week Kirshner, usually dressed in a high-collared leisure suit, dryly introduced acts in his distinctive Bronx accent, including the Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Paul McCartney, Elton John, Sly & the Family Stone, Van Morrison, Bruce Springsteen, Pink Floyd, Aerosmith, Barry Manilow, the Eagles, Devo, Prince and countless others over the show's run from 1973 to 1982." www.latimes.com/news/obituaries/la-me-don-kirshner-20110119,0,6670988.story. Online commentator Moses Avalon states: "Although those born after 1975 will largely remember Kirshner for his tacky South Florida attire and nasaly speech, Don Kirshner to many was an icon that helped shape the industry with his Rock Show. Unlike Bandstand and other similar shows Don insisted that his acts play live and sought out only acts that could live up to their recordings. He cared deeply about both the acts and the that his audience got a superior performance. A true music lover has passed an I for one will mourn." Read more: nyti.ms/i6tNmC. R.I.P. Don. FATES WARNING JIM MATHEOS & JOHN ARCH TEAM UP FOR NEW PROJECT: Jim Matheos (current member of the progressive rock powerhouse Fates Warning and OSI) and John Arch (former vocalist of Fates Warning) are currently working together on a new full-length album that will be released in late spring/early summer via Metal Blade Records. The band, called Arch / Matheos, began tracking the drums on January 12 and will continue to record through mid February with both John Arch and Jim Matheos producing the album. Arch / Matheos features an all-star lineup including the talents of Joey Vera on bass (Armored Saint, Anthrax, Fates Warning, Seven Witches), Bobby Jarzombek on drums (Halford, Fates Warning, Sebastian Bach, Riot), and Frank Aresti on additional lead guitar (Fates Warning). More details will be released over the coming months so be sure to stay tuned to FatesWarning.com & MetalBlade.com. Lineup: John Arch - vocals, Jim Matheos - guitars, Joey Vera - bass, Bobby Jarzombek - drums, Frank Aresti - additional lead guitar. MELODIC BRIEFS: California's Clandestine have posted a brand new video teaser online for their forthcoming debut album The Invalid. The album is due out on February 15 via Nightmare records. Check out the teaser at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHoJORKXqts. After slamming the groove down with Jeff Scott Soto and his former (and new) band mates last week at the Whiskey in Hollywood sharing the bill with the great ZO2 and Fozzy, Gary Schutt returns to Florida from the NAMM show weekend to two last minute opportunities! Gary will be performing solo acoustic covers before the touring show of Rock Of Ages Saturday (1/22) the Gary Schutt Band/Category Three will play the pre-show concert before Linkin Park at the St Pete Times Forum in Tampa! The latest edition of the Ahora Rock Podcast (#6) is now available online. Featuring brand new tracks from the likes of Bon Jovi, Mr Big, Ten, Magnum, TNT, Hinder, Faithealer and many more and hosted, as ever, by the incomparable Pilar Sanchez, just pop on over to www.rocktopia.net and select 'Podcast' (you will have to register, if not already done so) to either listen online or download to your iPod. All previous editions of Ahora Rock are still available for download.   CLASSIC ROCK AND METAL PODCAST: The January edition of the new Classic Rock And Metal Podcast is available for streaming at www.classicrockpodcast.com and for download through iTunes. This month Billy Sheehan and Eric Martin from Mr Big talk about their reunion, new album What If and how they fared in the 90s on the back of their International hit single To Be With You. Magnum have almost chalked up 40 years in the business and 2011 sees a new studio album The Visitation and another UK and European headline tour. Guitarist and songwriter Tony Clarkin talks about the changing musical landscape, why it's nice to be with SPV/Steamhammer and what happened to his beloved Gibson guitar. Dennis Dunaway was a founder member of the Alice Cooper Band and co-wrote many of their biggest hits, including School's Out and I'm Eighteen. Recently he's been back in the studio with his old band mates and legendary producer Bob Ezrin to contribute on Alice's next album Welcome II My Nightmare. He talks about this and his other projects as well as recalling many tales from back in the day. An unmissable interview with a Classic Rock legend. We celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Hear N Aid charity single Stars plus there's music from Mr Big and Magnum's new albums, Dennis Dunaway's band the 5th Avenue Vampires and Black Sabbath. As always there's the latest classic rock news roundup, tour information for January and new releases. The Classic Rock and Metal Podcast is available to stream or download on the first Monday of every month and is intended for people wanting to catch up on their favourite rock and metal bands of the 70s and 80s, find out what they're doing now and learn about some of the great new bands following in their footsteps. DAN REED RETURNS TO THE EAST COAST FOR A LIMITED NUMBER OF SHOWS: Since making his name as the trailblazing front man of the Dan Reed Network -- a path that brought international rock success in the 1980s and 1990s -- Dan Reed led his multi-ethnic band of versatile funk/rockers through thrilling tours of Europe and the United States, often teaming with icons like The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Bon Jovi, Run DMC, Inxs, Def Leppard and UB40. After reaching the heights of The Rolling Stones tour and following an eye-opening interview Dan conducted with the Dalai Lama for SPIN Magazine, Dan took a long sabbatical to dabble in life's other, often spiritual pursuits. The ground-breaking singer/songwriter returns with a triumphant full-length studio recording, Coming Up For Air (Zero One), and a series of special solo acoustic performances along the east coast. · Tuesday January 25, 2011 Carnegie Hall, New York Turn Up The Peace Event (www.carnegiehall.org) · Monday February 14, 2011 Church, Boston, MA (www.churchofboston.com) · Tuesday February 15, 2011 The Saint, Asbury Park, NJ (www.thesaintnj.com) · Wednesday February 16, 2011 Bitter End, NYC (www.bitterend.com) · Thursday February 17, 2011 The North Star, Philadelphia, PA (www.northstarbar.com) With the release of Coming Up for Air, the DVD reissue of Dan Reed Network's Live At Last (a New Years Eve Performance from Portland 1991) and these special acoustic performances along the East Coast, fans young and older can enjoy his energetic and soulful performances, and see an artist who combines passionate belief with a unique talent, unforgettable melodies with thought-provoking lyrics, decades of rock-star experience with engaging freshness, and entertainment for the ears with sustenance for the soul. For more information, visit DanReed.com / www.myspace.com/danreed2012 / www.twitter.com/dan_reed / www.youtube.com/user/danreedvideos / www.facebook.com/pages/Dan-Reed/36492122000.

 

 

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

WHITESNAKE ARE BACK WITH THE ANTICIPATED RELEASE OF THEIR BRAND NEW ALBUM "FOREVERMORE": Whitesnake, the legendary rock'n'roll legacy founded and formed by renowned singer/songwriter David Coverdale, unleashes a brand new storming 'Snake statement, Forevermore on CD via Frontiers Records on March 25 in Europe and March 29 in North America. Their 11th studio album, Forevermore was recorded, produced and mixed  by Coverdale, guitarist Doug Aldrich and Michael McIntyre at Snakebyte Studios and Grumblenott Studios & Villas in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, with additional work at Casa Dala, Sherman Oaks, CA, and Whitesnake will take to the road for a full world tour in support of the release. Formed in 1977, and steered by the legendary Coverdale, Whitesnake carry a rightful reputation as one of the world's leading rock'n'roll bands. Coverdale's blues and soul roots, combined with a feral sense of rock and roll, have consistently shaped the 'Snake's sound, and add to that Coverdale's love and appreciation of impeccable musicianship and you have a failsafe recipe for success. Their ascent to the very top of the rock'n'roll tree was confirmed with 1987's self-titled mega-platinum album, which saw two top 10 hits, two number one singles with 'Here I Go Again' and 'Is This Love' and a virtual 24 hour domination of MTV around the world.  Such triumphs were surely foretold when as a young man from Saltburn-By-Sea, Coverdale enthusiastically answered the call to be Deep Purple's singer. Such bombast, bravado, talent and passion have thus helped establish Whitesnake as the perennial platinum favorite they have become. With "Forevermore" Coverdale has reignited an explosively fruitful vein of creativity with guitarist and co-writer/producer Aldrich, Reb Beach (Winger, Alice Cooper) on guitar, Briian Tichy (Ozzy, Billy Idol, Foreigner) on drums and Michael Devin (Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Lynch Mob) on bass, and as with all Whitesnake's albums, Coverdale aided so capably by Aldrich opens up his heart and soul to express emotions and empathy rarely heard these days in any musical genre. More than simply their latest release, "Forevermore" represents Whitesnake's no holds barred, most heartfelt, melodic and musically muscular excursion for many a year. The album's release will be anticipated by the digital only release of the first single/video clip Love Will Set You Free on February 21. Forevermore will also be specially released on a "Snake Pack" edition for the first 3 weeks in England only. This very special release – arranged in conjunction with Future Publishing and Classic Rock magazine - will come with a collectors edition 132 pages deluxe magazine + A1 poster & metal pin badge and shall feature an exclusive cover art and 2 bonus live tracks "Slide It In" and "Cheap An' Nasty" which will serve as an appetizer for the forthcoming Live @ Donington 1990 (CD/DVD) to be released in the summer 2011. The album will be also be released on a double gatefold vinyl format, with deluxe special editions to be announced shortly. This time Coverdale and Co. have really laid it on the line for their fans, and be sure of this, the Snake's charms are going to convert a whole new army of believers… just watch. "Forevermore" will include the following songs: Steal Your Heart Away; All Out Of Luck; Love Will Set You Free; Easier Said Than Done; Tell Me How; I Need You (Shine A Light); One Of These Days; Love And Treat Me Right; Dogs In The Street; Fare Thee Well; Whipping Boy Blues; My Evil Ways; Forevermore. Whitesnake: David Coverdale – vocals, Doug Aldrich – guitar, Reb Beach – guitars, Michael Devin – bass, Briian Tichy – drums. Produced by Los Bros Brutalos (David Coverdale, Doug Aldrich, Michael McIntyre) WebLinks: www.whitesnake.com / www.frontiers.it.   xx EDEN'S CURSE TAG ANOTHER VOCAL GREAT: Multinational Melodic Metallers Eden's Curse have released details of the second guest vocalist to appear on their forthcoming third album Trinity due out on 18th March via AFM Records. As previously reported, Dream Theater vocalist James LaBrie duets with Eden's Curse front man Michael Eden on the epic "No Holy Man", which will be released as a single and video next month by AFM, and the band have now confirmed that Helloween vocalist and former Pink Cream 69 singer Andi Deris will also duet with Eden on the bruising "Black Widow", which is said to be the heaviest Curse tune to date. Lead vocalist Michael Eden quipped "Metal overload with a middle finger salute is perfect. Perfect for me! Perfect for you! Flying in on The Curse jet - all hail the mighty Andi Deris of Helloween! Andi kicked it so hard at the party that I nearly lost my voice keeping up with him. Rejoice". Trinity was produced by the bands long time engineer Dennis Ward (Krokus, Pink Cream 69 and Angra) and will also be released by Metal Mayhem in the USA and Spiritual Beast in Japan. A 90 second sample of Black Widow is now streaming at the bands Official MySpace (www.myspace.com/edenscurse) and Facebook sites (facebook.dj/edenscurse). For more updates on Trinity visit: www.EdensCurse.com.   ZO2'S ROCK ASYLUM RED CARPET EVENT TO FEATURE ROCK LEGEND DEE SNIDER: Legendary frontman of the 80's Metal Band Twisted Sister and star of the A&E reality series "Growing Up Twisted," Dee Snider, will be among the rock celebrities walking the red carpet at ZO2's Rock Asylum on Wednesday, January 19 at the Canal Room in New York City. Rock Asylum, New York City's premiere hard rock festival will feature ZO2, Sweet Cyanide and Diablo Royale, three of NYC's hottest rock bands. Other rockers scheduled to attend are Marky Ramone (Ramones), Bumblefoot (Guns N' Roses), and Rob Affuso (Skid Row). The event will be hosted by Cherioke of Rubix Kube -- the ultimate 80's Tribute -- and will feature a rock fashion show, renowned heavy metal DJ Alex Kayne, cool giveaways and more. In addition, every ticket sold in advance sponsors a kindergarten kid from P.S. 52 in Brooklyn to attend a concert that the Z Brothers -- ZO2's alter ego kid's band -- will donate to the school on January 18. ZO2 members Paulie Z., David Z. and Joey Cassata, stars of IFC's hit television comedy series "Z-Rock," play a rock band by night and a children's party act, the Z Brothers, by day. However, the show mirrors the group's real life. The Z Brothers have been performing together for 10 years. Paulie, David and Joey formed ZO2 in 2002 and have released three news songs in the last three months: Heart of Confusion, I Will be Alright and A Million Pieces -- all available on I-Tunes -- as well as three albums: Tuesdays and Thursdays; Ain't it Beautiful; and Casino Logic. ZO2 has toured with KISS and Poison and opened for acts such as Bret Michaels and Alice Cooper. The Red Carpet Event will take place 7 p.m. at Canal Room, 285 West Broadway, Manhattan. The show will begin at 8:15 p.m. VIVIAN CAMPBELL & PHIL COLLEN TALK OF DEF LEPPARD GUITAR ROLES: In a recent interview, Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell expressed a certain degree of boredom regarding his live guitar parts, saying, "I've been in Def Leppard for 20 years and, if I'm honest, it's not a terribly challenging job for me as a guitar player. Phil Collen plays most of the widdly guitar parts and I do what I do." Collen was tracked down at this weekend's NAMM show by Guitar International and offered his own thoughts on the subject. "It's all my [material]. Vivian joined a band that I helped create. He's coming into my house! It's not all the good parts, it's the Def Leppard sound that me and Steve [Clark; the late Def Leppard guitarist] created. We got together with "Mutt" Lange and there was already a sound in place. Also, we play all the hits live, which were written before Viv was in the band." Asked whether he had any hard feelings over Campbell's comments, Collen assured fans, "No, not at all. It's just the way it falls. I can't help that all my (expletive) sounds great!" NewsLink: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/def-leppard-0118-2011. ERIC RAGNO INTERVIEWED: Keyboardist Eric Ragno was featured in a recent video interview with the good folks at Rock Eyez. In it they discuss the early years of Eric's career, as well as his work with Jeff Scott Soto, Graham Bonnett, Eric Martin & others. The video features rare and unreleased video and audio throughout Eric's career, including the Melodic Rock Fest where he performed with both Ted Poley and Talon. Featured on over 50 releases, Eric also plays keyboards on the all-star Pushking CD coming February 1st, featuring such luminaries as Paul Stanley (Kiss), Billy F. Gibbons (ZZ Top), Alice Cooper, Steve Vai, Joe Lynn Turner (Rainbow) and many others. View the video below, and stop by Eric's site for all the latest at www.keyboardplayer.net. Part 1: www.youtube.com/watch?v=f67rwvhKp1s / Part 2: www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNXo0s5885s.   STAMPEDE SET TO RELEASE NEW STUDIO ALBUM: 'A SUDDEN IMPULSE' THIS SPRING: Newly reformed NWOBHM (New Wave Of British Heavy Metal) heroes Stampede have announced details of the release of their new album A Sudden Impulse - the long awaited follow up to their classic 1983 debut studio album 'Hurricane Town.' Finding a happy and welcoming new home with Rock Candy Record's spin-off front line label Grind That Axe Records, the band are finally excited to be able to reveal full track listing and artwork for the new album, which is due for release on April 18. Lead singer Reuben Archer comments "Personally I am really excited about the new album and our association with Rock Candy. It's great to feel part of something that's happening and more than anything we can't wait to get out there and play live!" One of the most respected hard rock acts during the early eighties, the band signed to Polydor Records and released two albums of impressive melodic rock to both critical and commercial acclaim, being compared to earthy British bands such as UFO and Humble Pie. Following regenerated interest brought about by Rock Candy Records' reissue of 'Hurricane Town' in 2006, song writing partnership Reuben and Laurence Archer decided to reform the band in 2009. Together with original bassist Colin Bond, new drummer Steve Graystone and the addition of a second guitarist in the form of Chris Clowsley, the band have crafted a worthy, if not superlative, long lost follow-up to their studio debut in the opinion of label manager Derek Oliver, who describes the new material as "lean, mean tough-guy hard rock with all the soulful delivery of classic British steel led by Reuben's instantly identifiable vocal and Laurence's blistering plank spanking burn outs." Reuben strongly believes that welcoming additional elements to Stampede have only served to strengthen the band, making the new material on A Sudden Impulse their most enjoyable studio experience yet. For example, twenty-year-old guitarist Rob Wolverson was invited to add his unique flair to the recordings as a result of Laurence being indisposed for a period because of personal commitments. Explains Reuben: "We could have had several existing name players fill in during this time, but I'd known Rob for years and watched him grow into a real guitar whizz-kid. He's also a great writer and brought a lot of vibrancy to the project. I just knew he was right for the job." Commenting on the end result, Reuben adds: "We have a harder sound now, the melodic hooks are there and I think we have a lot more edge than the first time around – especially due to our new powerhouse drummer Stevie G, and also Chris, whose strong rhythm guitar, vocal and guitar harmonies contribute enormously to the new sound. It has all resulted in making the reincarnation of Stampede an even more exciting project for us." 'A Sudden Impulse' is released on Rock Candy Records, April 18. Full track listing of the album is as follows: 1) Send Me Down An Angel 2) Jessie 3) Having Fun 4) Make A Change 5) Hard Rock Hell 6) This Road 7) Homeward Bound 8) Shame On You 9) Natural Disaster 10) Humble Pie 11) Flaming Gold. Bonus Tracks: 12) Recharged 13) Flaming Gold (Acoustic). Find out more about the newly reformed Stampede and get a sneak preview of track samples at: www.myspace.com/stampedeofficial / www.myspace.com/stampedeofficial.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Billboard.com - Vince Neil Serving Two Weeks in Jail for DUI Case: bit.ly/gnz6Ds. First video of the new Seven Thorns album Return to the Past: www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5QtxxfTFBY. Seven Thorns is aiming for the stars, with the awesome lead guitarist of At Vance, a giant within the power metal genre. Olaf Lenk, features on one of the certain hits, Liberty, with a frightening fast guitar solo. Many of the keyboard parts were played by the very skilled Mikkel Henderson (Fate, Evil Masquerade). And the icing on top is Mastering by the legendary, Danish power metal producer, Tommy Hansen. www.myspace.com/seventhorns. On Thursday, February 3, guitar legend and classical metal master Yngwie Malmsteen will sit in with the amazing house band, The Roots, on "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon." Expect a mind-blowing display of virtuosity from Malmsteen, as he jams with The Roots on a variety of material. Malmsteen will be featured throughout the entire show. "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon" airs on NBC at 12:35AM, ET/PT. Billy Falcon's latest record, When, features thirteen songs that each continue his legacy. A poet, artist, and craftsman in the purest sense, Falcon somehow puts words and melody to all that it means to be human. The hauntingly beautiful title track, is a wistful yet joyful account of raising his daughter, Rose, alone. Falcon's strength and vulnerability, passion, and humor are woven throughout the album, from Sunday Comes, and Fall To Me, to the melancholy tale of Boggy Key, to the everyman's Hundred Dollar Bill, you get the sense that you've felt it, you've lived it, and somehow Falcon has put it to words and music. The record is a lyrical and musical testament that declares Billy Falcon music has maintained his authenticity, freshness, and significance. Like the spirit of faith, hope, and love that is his muse, Falcon's music endures. www.billyfalcon.com Eagle Rock Entertainment is proud to announce the simultaneous release of Jeff Beck: Rock N Roll Party Honoring Les Paul on DVD and Blu-ray on February 22, 2011. Filmed in high definition at the Iridium Jazz Club in New York City this past spring, this musical celebration of the great Les Paul features selections of his songs and other great rock 'n' roll tracks. Additionally, ATCO will be offering a CD of this exclusive show, featuring 20 live tracks from the evening, on the same day. Greg from Noize In The Attic (www.noizeintheattic.com) interviewed Dio's Jimmy Bain for Rock Eyez: rockeyez.com/interviews. Britain's pride and joy on the AOR scene of the 80s, FM conquered every fan of melodic rock with their debut "Indiscreet" (1986) and its successor "Tough It Out" (1989). Songs like "Frozen Heart", "That Girl" and "Bad Girl" have definitely earned the name of classics. Like so many of their peers, FM found the AOR-hostile climate of the 90s too grim to endure, and the band dissolved in 1995. Twelve years later, FM found the time had come to reunite, and the delight of their fans was hardly diminished when the band's excellent comeback album "Metropolis" arrived last year. Now FM also make their Sweden Rock Fest - with lauded singer Steve Overland at the frontline as always. DAMON JOHNSON MINI-TOUR AND NEW SOLO ACOUSTIC CD: Damon Johnson, guitarist for Alice Cooper and founding member of Brother Cane, has announced a mini-tour in support of his second solo acoustic album/cd titled "Release" (blog.al.com/mcolurso/2010/09/catchy_release_birminghams_dam.html). The first five dates of the 2011 "Release" Tour are as follows: Wednesday, February 23 – Austin, TX - The Ghost Room – www.theghostroom.com Thursday, February 24 – Little Rock, AR - Juanita's – www.juanitas.com Friday, February 25 – Dallas, TX - Poor David's Pub – www.poordavidspub.com Sunday, February 27 – Denison, TX - Loose Wheels – www.loosewheelstexas.com Monday, February 28 – St. Louis, MO - Old Rock House – www.oldrockhouse.com WebLinks: www.damonjohnson.com / www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000447026889#!/damonjohnsonfans / www.cdbaby.com/cd/damonjohnson1.

 

 

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

LION MUSIC ARTIST UPDATE: Italian progressive metal band Twinspirits return with their third album Legacy on February 18 on Lion Music. As a preview of the new album the band have released a promotional video for the track Slave To This World which can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckU0hL_awKY. Legacy marks the second album of vocalist Goran Nystrom in the band, and his voice delivers another commanding performance over the material penned by band mastermind and keyboardist Daniele Liverani. Guitarist Tommy Ermolli takes a heavier role this time round whilst the rhythm section of bassist Alberto Rigoni and drummer Dario Ciccioni hold down the complex patterns with precision. Full information on the album release to follow shortly. WebLinks: www.twinspirits.net / www.myspace.com/Twinspiritsband / www.twitter.com/twinspiritsband. 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. Album promo page: www.lionmusic.com/cd/angelmaker.htm. Pre-order 'Angelmaker' now from the LM store - www.lionmusic.com/shop/O/Overdrive.htm. 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. Album promo page: www.lionmusic.com/cd/infiniteoverture.htm.   xx KING KOBRA NEW ALBUM OUT ON FRONTIERS APRIL 15 (EUROPE), JAPAN & US TO FOLLOW: Formed in 1984 by legendary drummer Carmine Appice (Vanilla Fudge, Rod Stewart, Ozzy Osbourne), Los Angeles heavy metal outfit King Kobra recorded two critically acclaimed albums for Capitol Records – the 1985 release 'Ready to Strike' and 1986's 'Thrill of a Lifetime'. Along with Carmine, the band featured four relatively unknown musicians at the time – David Michael-Philips and Mick Sweda on guitar, Johnny Rod on bass and Mark Free on lead vocals. King Kobra toured the U.S., Canada, Europe and Mexico playing shows with Kiss, Iron Maiden, Quiet Riot, Ted Nugent, Queensryche and Autograph. The band was featured regularly on MTV and performed the theme song for the #1 1986 motion picture "Iron Eagle". After disbanding in 1988, each member continued his career in other successful major-label groups - Carmine to Blue Murder (Geffen), Mark Free to Unruly Child (Interscope), Mick Sweda to the BulletBoys (Warner Bros.), Johnny Rod to WASP (Capitol/EMI) and David Michael-Philips to Lizzy Borden (Metal Blade). The year 2010 saw the band reunite the original classic '85 lineup, replacing Mark Free (now Marcie Free) with veteran lead vocalist Paul Shortino (Rough Cutt, Quiet Riot). An album of all new original material has been recorded and is scheduled for release in early 2011 on Frontiers Records. King Kobra is back stronger than ever and "Ready to Strike" once again! Tracklist: Rock This House, Turn Up The Good (Times), Live Forever, Tear Down The Walls, This Is How We Roll, Midnight Woman, We Got A Fever, Tope Of The World, You Make It Easy, Cryin' Turns To Rain, Screamin' For More, Fade Away, Red Flags (Bonus Track – Japan Only). Please check the band's official Myspace and Facebook pages for tour information: www.myspace.com/officialkingkobra / www.facebook.com/officialkingkobra.   ROCKAHOLICS RECORDS RELEASE LIMITED VINYL EDITION: Rock-a-holics Records (mkII - under new management) in cooperation with Steel Legacy Records, is proud to announce the imminent release on vinyl, of the following two albums: Eddie Ojeda – "Axes 2 Axes" - The first solo release from Twisted Sister's axeman, came out in 2005 and featured both great and varied songwriting that explored a lot of different styles, while staying firmly rooted in the early 80s rock/metal sound as well as a host of illustrious guests that helped out Eddie to bring his musical vision into reality, like Ronnie James Dio (R.I.P – Black Sabbath, Rainbow, Dio & more), his Twisted buddy, Dee Snider (Twisted Sister, SMF, Widowmaker, solo), Joey Lynn Turner (Rainbow, Deep Purple, Sunstorm, Solo & countless more), Joe Franco (ex-Twisted Sister & more) and Chris McCarvill (House of Lords, Dokken(live), X Factor X, M.Vescera) (500 numbered copies – 250 of them black with pink details & 250 in dark pink).   xx Darkology – "Altered Reflections" - 2010 saw the release of the long delayed Darkology debut, an album that although did set new standards in metal, in terms of technical ability and songwriting, went largely un-noticed because of certain media outlets suspicious "editorial decisions". It's a pity really and we're here to remedy that, because it is our firm belief that in case you like Megadeth, Judas Priest, Rush, Helstar, Dream Theater, Nevermore/Sanctuary , Iced Earth and Us Power-Prog metal in general , this little album, will blow your head off ! (guaranteed!) Spearheaded by the virtuosic Harris Bros, Michael on guitar (Thought Chamber, Arch Rival, Chastain, Leather, Surgeon & More) and Brian on Drums (ex-Firewind, Solstice (US), My Own Enemy) and also featuring bassist Mike Neal (Salem's Lot, Black Widow) and the new metal god, Kelly "Sundown" Carpenter (ex-Beyond Twilight,Outworld, Origins) on vocals Darkology are, as a journalist said in a review, "The Future Of Metal" (100% – Album of the year). We couldn't agree more! (500 numbered copies 250 of them clear Green & 250 in Black/Green exploding splatter).   xx Wholesalers are welcome to mail us @ info@rockaholicsrecords.com for special deals. The records, should be available from the bands and companies websites as well as from all good record stores that carry vinyl, worldwide! WebLinks: www.eddieojeda.com / www.myspace.com/eddieojeda / www.darkology.com / www.myspace.com/darkologymetal / rockaholicsrecords.com / www.myspace.com/rockaholicsrecords / www.steel-legacy.com. Oh and people, 2011, once some obstacles are taken out of the way, should be the year of Rock-a-holics! Watch this space! SEVENTIES ROCK PIONEER MICHAEL STANLEY RELEASES NEW CD 'SHADOWLAND': From the mid '70s to the mid '80s, the Michael Stanley Band enjoyed a strong and fiercely loyal following, touring with some of the superstar bands of that period including Bruce Springsteen, The Eagles, Foreigner and The Doobie Brothers. The latest CD from Michael Stanley Shadowland, his 22nd album, released on ItsAboutMusic.com, features thirteen new Stanley originals as he continues a musical journey that spans over forty years and just keeps getting better! Discovered by New York record producer, Bill Szymczyk, in 1973 Michael Stanley released his debut album 'Michael Stanley' (Tumbleweed Records), and second LP, 'Friends & Legends' (MCA) to critical acclaim. Both albums featured guest appearances by Todd Rundgren, Joe Walsh and David Sanborn. During this time he formed a trio with two area musicians, Daniel Pecchio and Jonah Koslen, who played Stanley's solo songs as well as new material live. In 1974, out of work, Michael's close friend, Joe Walsh (another Cleveland area musician) suggested he pursue music full time. It was a turning point for Stanley, who along with Pecchio and Koslen brought in drummer Tommy Dobeck and the The Michael Stanley Band was born! There were several Top-20 and Top-30 hits in the early '80s, among them "He Can't Love You" (1980) and "My Town" (1983), but it seemed the 'one great hit' never came. In late 1982, MSB released what would be their final album for EMI: 'You Can't Fight Fashion'. The single, "My Town", had made it to 29 on Billboard Magazine's charts and sales were good. While the band was on tour, EMI offered them an 'extension', rather than a contract renewal with a long-term financial commitment. When Michael declined the deal, the label quickly pulled the plug, halting promotion and tour-backing. 'The Ground', was released on October 21, 2003. Michael continues to man the airwaves as afternoon 'drive-time' personality at Cleveland's popular WNCX, while performing with "The Resonators" and "Midlife Chryslers" throughout Ohio. And now in 2011, Michael Stanley and all The Resonators hit the ground running with their new CD 'Shadowland'. The album's opener, It's all About Tonight, is a rocker which throws down the gauntlet to bands that are years younger and dares them to rock as hard! Some other musical highlights include I Am You, My Brand New Day and Skinny Jeans. Thirteen rocking new Michael Stanely tunes that are musical postcards from your next destination…Shadowland! For song samples from Michael Stanley 'Shadowland': itsaboutmusic.net/samples/Michael_Stanley/Shadowland/album.m3u. SAMPLE THE FIRST NEW OUTLOUD TRACK FOR 2011 & VOTE FOR THE BAND: Outloud, the Greece based hard-rocking outfit featuring Bob Katsionis (Firewind) Mark Cross (ex-Helloween, Firewind) and singer Chandler Mogel (ex-Talon), following their successful 2009 debut "We'll Rock You To Hell And Back Again!" from Frontiers Records, return with "Waiting For Your Love", a brand new track for 2011 from their upcoming sophomore album, "Love Catastrophe". The song can be heard exclusively on the Greek music community site JUMPING FISH on their personal page under www.jumpingfish.gr/outloud. This site serves as the launch pad for the "Be the opening act on Bon Jovi's Athens Show, July 20th" competition - for which Outloud are seeking your help to get the slot! The song is mixed by Danish engineer Tommy Hansen know from his work with Helloween, TNT, Pretty Maids etc., and produced by Bob Katsionis who also states about their participation in this competition: "I'm not a fan of music competitions, in fact I don't find any meaning to most of them, since the only thing you have to "win" with your music is to touch the hearts of your listeners. This particular contest though, is a fine chance to get our music heard by a different set of fans and not only this of rock/metal which in Greece is kinda difficult to reach. We don't wanna be rockstars overnight, and we're not the typical "opening band" who just want to be famous. In fact Outloud have never yet played before anyone! We just believe in our music and we want to take it as far as we can." The song is automatically played once you enter this link: www.jumpingfish.gr/outloud. Once you hear the song, please take a minute to vote for Outloud to open for Bon Jovi in Athens, Greece on July 20th! Even though the site is in Greek, if you follow this simple guide, you can make your vote quickly and easily (for non-Greek readers): Go to www.jumpingfish.gr/outloud. Right below the music player, there is a black box with a Bon Jovi logo in it (the sword in the heart). Run your cursor over this box (or click on the white envelope for non-flash users) to reveal two small grey boxes - click on the bottom one. Now you'll be prompted to enter some information. In descending order of the boxes, enter your: First Name, Last Name, Username (make one), Password (make one), Re-enter Password, and E-mail. Right below that, enter your sex (from left to right it's M, F, or don't wish to enter it). Right below that, there are four small paragraphs. Leave the top one checked as it is, but out of the second two, click the one on the right (it says "listener" in English). Below that, uncheck the box if you don't want to receive a newsletter from the site. Then click the black box to continue. Almost there! Another page will show up, just click the black box again to continue. Now go to your email account and click on the link that you were just sent by the site. Click on it from your e-mail and that will take you back to the site, and now enter your name and password and click the black box. Once you do that, you are logged in. Now copy and paste the link www.jumpingfish.gr/outloud into the address bar of your browser, and you're back on the Outloud page. Right below the picture of Outloud within the black area where you started is a little white box with an envelope in it. Click on that and you've voted!   TRIPLE BILL FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA: Drummer Glen Sobel (Impellitteri, Sixx: A.M., Vivian Campbell) will be drumming with German guitar legend Uli Jon Roth (ex-Scorpions) on his Southern California dates next week. The Ventura date at the Ventura Theater will include Alcatrazz feat. Graham Bonnet (ex-Rainbow, MSG) and Adrian Galysh as support acts. Sobel is set to perform with all three acts on this bill. Exact dates are as follows: January 18 - San Diego, CA - Brick By Brick January 20 - Ventura, CA - Ventura Theater (w/ Alcatrazz & Adrian Galysh) January 21 - Huntington Beach, CA - Blue Cafe (w/ Adrian Galysh) The line-up for each band is as follows: Uli Jon Roth: Uli Jon Roth - lead guitar, Mark Boals (Yngwie Malmsteen, Ring of Fire) - vocals, Bjorn Englen (Yngwie Malmsteen, Quiet Riot) - bass, Adrian Galysh - rhythm guitar, Glen Sobel - drums Alcatrazz: Graham Bonnet - vocals, Howie Simon (Jeff Scott Soto, Talisman) - guitar, Tim Luce - bass, Glen Sobel - drums. Adrian Galysh: Adrian Galysh - guitar, Kevin Chown (Tarja Turunen, Tony MacAlpine, Bombastic Meatbats) - bass, Maureen Baker - keyboards, Glen Sobel - drums. Sobel highlights from Drum Daze 2010 in Columbus, OH with Glen performing along with Jason Bittner (Shadows Fall), Chris Coleman (Prince), Teddy Campbell ('American Idol'), and Johnny Rabb can be viewed at this location: www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-8fMtC7SKs. For more information visit: www.glensobel.com. TWINSPIRITS BASS PLAYER SIGNS TO NIGHTMARE RECORDS: Italian bass player & composer Alberto Rigoni (TwinSpirits, Solo Artist) has just signed with Nightmare Records for the release of his new album. Rebirth shows an extreme variety of tunes, some with voice and some instrumental, it's a union of experimental research blended with a solid backbone of melody. Bassists around the world will want to witness his elegant simplicity to bring the bass instrument to the forefront without loosing the rhythm and foundation of the music. Alberto successfully combines rock-prog-fusion, with hard-rock-ambient creating a blend that suggests a poetic mix that is free from any defined genre yet remains memorable an even catchy. "Rebirth" features also features well known musicians. Gavin Harrison (Porcupine Tree, King Krimson) John Macaluso (Ark, LaBrie, Malmsteen), Michael Manring and Yves Carbonne, swedish singer Jonas Erixon (Alicante), guitarist Tommy Ermolli (Twinspirits) and Simone Mularoni (DGM, Empyrios), keyboard players Federico Solazzo (Alexia), Andrea Pavanello (Centrica) , Filippo Lui and Emanuele Casali (DGM, Astra). Lance King, owner of Nightmare, says: "I'm excited to try something different and branch out into a little different direction with the label and this artist, Alberto has brought together many brilliant musicians on this great album." WebLinks: www.albertorigoni.net / www.NightmareRecords.com. TOXIC HEART TV: After releasing their debut album Ride Your Life the guys of Toxic Heart are back with something special. They started their own online show ToxicHeartTV feat. the guys from Toxic Heart and everything they do in their lives. It's not just music! The guys are adrenaline junkies who party hard, travel around the world and never forget how to have an awesome time. Feel free to take a look at the trailer for their upcoming show starting on February. Link: www.youtube.com/toxichearttv / www.toxicheartofficial.com.

 

 

Monday, January 17, 2011

VAN HALEN COMMENCE WORK WITH PRODUCER JOHN SHANKS: Van Halen will formally start work on a new studio album with Grammy Award winning producer John Shanks Monday January 17. The news of the band's plans was confirmed by myself this weekend. Rumours of Shanks' involvement with the band surfaced a couple of months ago at the Van Halen Newsdesk. It can now be confirmed. The band will record their first all-new studio album since 1998's Van Halen III and their first with original singer David Lee Roth since 1983's 1984. There are no further details available about this latest stint in the studio, nor any suggestion of when the band will be finished and anything subsequently released. Manager Irving Azoff is said to be pushing the band to tour, but I'm told Eddie Van Halen is reluctant to do so without any new material to release. So while a 2011 tour has been publicly mentioned previously by Azoff, it remains up in the air as to when, or even if a tour will happen this year. A record needs to be completed and I doubt anyone will want to start speculating as to when that will happen. Questions remain about what happened to the much discussed 2010 recording sessions with producer Ross Hogarth. Officially denied, and not likely to ever be addressed, the fact remains the band were in the studio writing and working for much of 2010. Several famous names commented positively about hearing new material during 2010, including Dweezil Zappa & John 5. Additionally Warner Publishing issued a press release mid-year stating that the band had re-signed to the company, adding that they were (at that stage) in the studio recording. Additional rumors remain about Warner's desire to release remastered versions of the band's Sammy Hagar fronted albums and I'm hearing talk of a career spanning Box Set at some stage - fuelled by news that Warner also reached new publishing agreements with Sammy Hagar, Michael Anthony and David Lee Roth in 2010. Stay tuned... NIGHT RANGER IN THE STUDIO FOR NEW 2011 RELEASE: Night Ranger/Damn Yankees frontman Jack Blades checked in with me today, eager to talk about upcoming plans. Right now, Night Ranger are in the studio in Northern California writing and recording a new album, while gearing up for a 30th Anniversary World Tour in 2011. Jack is also finishing up his second solo CD this week, with Anthony Focx mixing. R.I.P. TWO AUSTRALIAN ROCK GREATS: Sad news for Aussie rock fans on two fronts today. This report from: www.news.com.au/entertainment/music. "It was a sad weekend for the Australian rock world, with the deaths of two legends. Cold Chisel drummer Steve Prestwich died on Sunday from a brain tumour at the age of 56, with Sherbert guitarist Harvey James also losing his battle with cancer on Saturday night. Steve's brother Simon confirmed to the Daily Telegraph's Undercover that Steve passed away on Sunday at around 3.30pm. Prestwich was born in Liverpool, England but moved to Adelaide, Australia when his family migrated in 1971. He was a founding member of the band Orange in 1973, featuring Jimmy Barnes, Ian Moss, Don Walker and Les Kaczmarek. In 1974, they changed their name to Cold Chisel. In Cold Chisel, Steve Prestwich wrote the now classics When The War Is Over and Forever Now and co-wrote Flame Trees with Don Walker. He also wrote Best Kept Lies from Chisel's classic East album. After Chisel broke up in 1983, Steve joined Little River Band who also recorded When The War Is Over, with John Farnham as lead singer. He released two solo albums Since You've Been Gone in 2000 and Every Highway in 2009. Meanwhile, Sherbert guitarist Harvey James has died after a battle with lung cancer. The 58-year-old died peacefully in Melbourne at 8.15pm Saturday. Daughter Alexandra James broke the news on a dedicated "Send Your Love To Harvey James" Facebook page. "We would to thank everybody for all the wonderful support over the past 6 months,'' Alexandra posted. "The love has been overwhelming. Rest in peace my gorgeous, funny, amazing father. We will miss you everyday forever. Xxxxxx." James and Sherbet were to headline the Gimme That Guitar concert on February 17, joined by Ian Moss, Renee Geyer, Swanee, Dragon, Richard Clapton and Kevin Borich. Joshua and his other son Gabriel were set to perform in Band Of Friends alongside their father. James spoke about his love of music in a recent interview with the Daily Telegraph. "My music found me, it found me when I was 16 and has stayed with me ever since,'' Harvey said. When they called it quits in 1984, he was sought after by the who's who of Australian rock for his axe skills." R.I.P. Steve and Harvey. JSS AND CHRIS JERICHO LIVE WITH STRYPER: Jeff Scott Soto and Chris Jericho graced the stage with Stryper this weekend just gone at the House of Blues. Full review at: untombed.com/?p=1650. NEW REVIEWS ADDED: New Reviews have been added for the following new releases: Mr. Big, John Waite, Vega, Prime Suspect, Michael Bormann, Yngwie Malmsteen, Push UK, Hansel, Fab Box, Hybrid Ice, Inxs, Bryan Adams, Lord and Firenote. Read New Reviews.

 

 

Friday, January 14, 2011

NEW MIKE PORCARO ALBUM DUE: Straight from Toto99.com: 'Mike Porcaro is going to release a live record called Brotherly Love featuring the Tribute to Jeff concert in Koblenz 2002. Here's a message and more information from him: "I just wanted to let you know that I am releasing a Live record I made with David Garfield and an All Star cast featuring Steve Gadd, Gregg Bissonette, Lenny Castro, Glenn Hughes, my brother Steve, and father Joe and many other great cats. We recorded it live in Koblenz, Germany back in 2002 and it's finally finished. It's coming out in Japan first on Ward Records, but will be released shortly after that in the US and the rest of the world. We'll be posting more complete information soon. I hope you get a chance to check it out and enjoy! I want to thank everybody for the kind thoughts and prayers. I'm doing the best that I can....... Love, Mike." Stay tuned for further details. FIREWIND DRUMMER MICHAEL EHRÉ LAUNCHES LOVE.MIGHT.KILL: Love.Might.Kill was founded in 2009 by Firewind/Uli Jon Roth/Metalium-drummer Michael Ehré. After touring all around the world with several bands and writing songs for German-metallers Metalium, Japanese-female-metal-vocalist Saeko or ex-Zed Yago-founder Jutta Weinhold, he realised his vision of an own band by writing, recording and producing Love.Might.Kill's debut-album Brace For Impact. In addition with the brilliant Italian-singer Jan Manenti as a co-writer, long-time-friends Christian Stöver and Stefan Ellerhorst (who were both playing in German-based-metalband Crossroads) on guitars and Jogi Sweers on bass Love.Might.Kill's outstanding line-up was completed. Brace For Impact features 13 stunning melodic-metal-tracks in the tradition of the bands longtime favourites like Rainbow, Judas Priest, Dio or Black Sabbath. Michaels production and Markus Teske's mix (Saga, Vanden Plas, Spock's Beard) underwrite the fact that Love.Might.Kill's debut-album will convince all melodic-metal-maniacs all around the world. For further information please go to: www.lovemightkill.com.   VANDEN PLAS HOLES IN THE SKY: The Vanden Plas New Videoclip - Taken From The Seraphic Clockwork.   STRIKEFORCE PREPPING NEW ALBUM: US hard rockers Strikeforce have been busy recording tracks for their forthcoming CD at Hangar 13 Studios in St. Louis! Strikeforce had a very busy year in 2010, the band was out on the road headlining clubs shows across the Midwest, and doing some special guest tour dates with Styx, Headeast, Micheal Schenker, Y&T, Jimi Jamison and Winger. Lead guitarist and founding member Duke Jackson states: "We have a killer band and were firing on all cylinders. The new material is smokin' in the studio and our fans and critics will be surprised! Strikeforce is back, and ready to kick ass! Look for the new Strikeforce CD to be released this Spring 2011, just in time for some more heavy touring! Check out the YouTube video of Strikeforce performing Falling Down at the DuQuoin, Illinois State Fair opening for Styx in front of 5,000 people!" Strikeforce is: Duke Jackson - lead guitar; Joe Council - bass; Tim Sullivan - drums; Travis Wyant - lead vocals.   ROCK MEETS CLASSIC ADDS MARC STORACE: Krokus vocalist Marc Storace will perform some "classic Krokus" with a "classical symphony orchestra" in four Swiss cities. Other vocalists featured on the "Rock Meets Classic" bill include Ian Gillan (Deep Purple), Lou Gramm (Ex-Foreigner), Les Holroyd (Barclay James Harvest) and Dan McCafferty (Nazareth). Marc is excited to showcase Krokus songs with a symphony orchestra. If you're in Switzerland, do not miss these shows! Recently Marc was asked by a journalist whether he's afraid to tackle the mix between rock and classic or whether it is more so a challenge for him: Marc: "Afraid? Not at all, to the contrary! I learned about classical renditions when I was just born. My mother played on the piano everything from Beethoven to Mozart when I still was in her womb. My oldest sister was a piano teacher and played to ballet. At that time I was more interested in Pop and Soul music and then came Rock n Roll! When the Beatles, Rolling Stones and a couple of other bands started to integrate classical elements into their songs, I really liked that a lot. Deep Purple recorded an entire album with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and later on Jeff Lynne set a new standard for Rock meets Classic with his Electric Light Orchestra." PAYING TRIBUTE TO PHIL KENNEMORE: As the rock world is still mourning the loss of a legend, we are going to rise up and give him the kind of tribute that he truly deserves. This Saturday's edition of the Hair Metal Mansion Radio Show, will be dedicated to Y&T bassist Phil Kennemore, who lost his battle with lung cancer earlier this month. Y&T is a staple on the HMM show and it would only be fitting that we set aside some time, to put the spotlight on one of the most talented and respected artists in rock. To do this, the HMM faithful have come together, submitting both requests and giving their thoughts on Phil and their memories of Y&T. So not only will I be getting to all of those requests, I will also be reading what everyone wrote on air. It's going to be a night not of sadness, but of celebration, for all of the great music that Phil has left us with over the years. Not only will both new and old songs from Y&T be featured throughout the show, but we will also be getting to some other things as well... such as; another brand new exclusive track from Wallner Vain will make it's debut. And another song from Mr. Big's "Lean Into It", our Album of the week, is on tap as well. We want to invite all of you out there to be a part of this special night! The Hair Metal Mansion Phil Kennemore Tribute Show airs this Saturday night at 7pm ET/6pm CT. Head over to www.redeyeradionetwork.com and tune in! But if you can't be there, or happen to miss any part of the show, it will be replayed. An encore presentation will air Sunday night at 6pm ET/5pm CT on Hard Rock Heaven. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: CD Showcase has been updated with a stack of big releases to check out: John Waite & Hurtsmile (Frontiers Records, January 21 release); Ten, Scheepers & Benedictum (Frontiers Records, February 18 release); Coldspell (Escape Music, February 25 release); TNT & Bad Habit (AOR Heaven, January 21 release); Hell In The Club, Danger Zone, Miss Behaviour & Moritz (Avenue Of Allies Music, January 28 release). Check samples out now. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new features: - Feature Album: John Warren - One Heart (1990) - Winger - Rare & Unreleased (12 Tracks) - Wanted - Demos (Norway 1991)(6 Tracks) - Vishusgruv - II (1993) - Why Not - Demos (Sweden 1988)(4 Tracks) MR-X Membership Details. COMING UP: Coming up Monday - new Reviews...

 

 

Thursday, January 13, 2011

DREAM AOR TRIPLE BILL FOR LONDON: Following the success of their self-titled debut album – hailed as 'The Best AOR album of 2010' by Classic Rock Magazine, Swedish duo Houston have just announced an intimate gig (with full band) at the Borderline in London on Friday March 4. Having reached #16 in the Swedish Charts, Freddie Allen and Hank Erix will be showcasing their outstanding AOR which has been likened to Boston and Foreigner. The pair managed to enlist the services of Tommy Denander, Tomas Vikström, Mats Olausson and several other rock legends to appear on the album – no mean feat for a new band and goes a long way to sealing their acceptance firmly into the genre. In a three band bill, the show will also feature UK band Serpentine who will be premiering new vocalist Matt Black who is stepping into the touring role following in the footsteps of Tony Mills – the band's original vocalist. Serpentine's first album 'A Touch Of Heaven' was well received in both Japan and across Europe with the band attaining a blistering review in BURRN magazine amongst many others. The brainchild of keyboardist and main songwriter Gareth Noon, Serpentine are currently in pre-production for album number two, again being produced by Magnum's team of Mark Stuart and Sheena Sear. As if that weren't AOR-tastic enough, also on the bill are the mighty Vega who took the audience by storm at the recent Danny Vaughn show in Dudley. Vega are also receiving rave reviews for their debut album 'Kiss Of Life'. Along with writing their own material for many years, song writing duo Tom and James Martin have had compositions on several recent releases on the premier melodic label Frontiers Records, including Issa and House Of Lords and the band has supreme vocal talent Nick Workman (Eden/Kick) at the helm. Be sure to get your tickets fast as it's bound to sell out! This is a New Wave of AOR showcase, so don't miss out on the event of the year! This one will go down as an "I was there" gig in years to come, so come on, how can you resist? Tickets are priced at the ridiculously low price of £8 plus booking fee and are available through Ticketweb and HMV Tickets. SASS JORDAN, DAVE LOMBARDO ADDED TO JOHN BONHAM TRIBUTE: Canadian blues rock singing sensation Sass Jordan, Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo, Hole/Motley Crue drummer Samantha Maloney and world renowned drummer Jojo Mayer have all confirmed to play the "Bonzo: The Groove Remains The Same: A Double Encore" Tribute show! 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. But, 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. 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 bad-asses 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: 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), Sass Jordan, James Kottak: (Scorpions), Abe Laboriel: (Paul McCartney, Sting), Dave Lombardo: (Slayer), Khurt Maier: (Salty Dog), Samantha Maloney: (Hole/ Motley Crue), Jojo Mayer**, 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. WebLink: www.briantichy.com for all updates and info. BANG TANGO - RE-ISSUES OUT SOON: From MetalMind Productions: www.metalmind.com.pl: It's hard not to think about lost opportunities when referring to Bang Tango. Perhaps one of the most original and eclectic members of the glam/funk scene, this group had it all: great songs, clever image and significant sound. Unfortunately, they never managed to achieve the success they deserved. However, the fans have not forgotten about them and after many tribulations, Bang Tango have returned in not one but two incarnations: one with the original singer and another featuring the original musicians. Now, thanks to the exclusive re-issues of "Psycho Cafe", "Dancin' on Coals" and "Ain't No Jive... Live", music lovers all around the world may once again return to the early 1990's. Bang Tango was formed in 1987 in Los Angeles, California. The original line-up consisted of vocalist Joe LeSte, guitarists Kyle Stevens and Mark Knight, bassist Kyle Kyle (born Kyle Keiderling) and drummer Tigg Ketler. The group was lucky enough to sign to MCA Records without even releasing a single demo. In 1989, they recorded their first album "Psycho Cafe", which immediately caught the attention of rock enthusiasts, both locally and nationally. The LP was definitely ahead of its time, delivering great metal riffs, funky bass lines, intense drumming and LeSte's wide vocal range, easily mixing glam, hard rock and funk. "Psycho Cafe" spawned a couple of hits, such as "Breaking Up a Heart of Stone" and one of the band's most famous tracks – "Someone Like You". In 1991, Bang Tango returned with their sophomore album "Dancin' on Coals". The LP brought a significant change in the group's music, pushing it more towards funk rock in the vein of Red Hot Chili Peppers. Their style was still a bit difficult to classify but such tracks as "Dressed Up Vamp" and "Soul To Soul" brought nothing less than sheer musical genius. 1992 brought the band's second live material (after "Live Injection" from 1989). The 5-track EP entitled "Ain't No Jive... Live" showcased Bang Tango at the peak of their talent. All of the songs included in this material sound as good as on the albums, though they are played faster and with much more energy. The group played some of their best known hits such as "Someone Like You", "Dancin' On Coals" and "Attack of Life", as well as a premiere track for that time ("20th Century Boy") and the ballad "Midnight Strikes", with LeSte's stellar performance. In 1994, Bang Tango released their third LP called "Love After Death". Unfortunately, the album was not as successful as the band had hoped and, in 1995, the guys decided to call it quits. In the following year, the group reunited just to disband again in 1998. Another reunion took place in 1999, when original members Joe LeSte and Kyle Kyle teamed up with bassist Mattie B. (ex-Altar Boys) for a national tour, which proved to be a great success. A new album was in the making but, eventually, it never got released. In 2002, LeSte reformed the band again, this time with a completely new line-up. The group is still actively touring. In 2010, the original members of Bang Tango: Tigg Ketler, Mark Knight and Kyle Kyle decided to bring back yet another version of the legendary band. The exclusive re-releases of Bang Tango's "Psycho Cafe", "Dancin' on Coals" and "Ain't No Jive... Live" bring back the very beginnings of this fantastic band. For all fans of glam rock, hard rock or funk rock – this is a trip you can't afford to miss! The albums will be available in a new digipak edition each limited to 2000 copies. Re-release of "Dancin' On Coals" includes 2 bonus tracks. Metal Mind Productions set the release date for January 31. "Psycho Cafe" 1. Attack of Life 2. Someone Like You 3. Wrap My Wings 4. Breaking Up A Heart of Stone 5. Shotgun Man 6. Don't Stop Now 7. Love Injection 8. Just For You 9. Do What You're Told 10. Sweet Little Razor. "Dancin' On Coals" 1. Soul to Soul 2. United and True 3. Emotion in Gear 4. I'm in Love 5. Big Line 6. Midnight Struck 7. Dancin' on Coals 8. My Saltine 9. Dressed Up Vamp 10. Last Kiss 11. Cactus Juice Bonus tracks: 12. 20th Century Boy 13. Futurama (live) "Ain't No Jive… Live" 1. Dancin' On Coals 2. 20th Century Boy 3. Someone Like You 4. Midnight Struck 5. Attack Of Life. KUNI BACK WITH NEW ALBUM FOR JAPAN: Cult Japanese guitarist Kuni (Kuni Takeuchi) is back with a new album - Rock Vol. 1, released in Japan next week, January 20. The track listing is: Take Off The Masque, Freedom, In The Dark, Sweet & Danger, Metal Sister, Don't Turn Back, Miss You, Guitar Solo, Desert Sunset, Rock'n Roll All Night. Guests include: Mark Boals (Rising Force), Chuck Wright (Quiet Riot), Frankie Banali (Quiet Riot), Eric Singer (Kiss), Dave Spitz (Black Sabbath), Gilby Clarke (Guns N 'Roses), John Corabi (Motley Crue), Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big). Pre-Order Direct.   SACRED DAWN SIGNS WITH DARK STAR RECORDS: We are pleased to announce that the Chicago based progressive power metal band Sacred Dawn have inked a deal with Dark Star Records. With an innovative mix of heavy metal and hard rock plus a unique blend of vocal harmonies, Sacred Dawn has been said to deliver one of the most original progressive metal musical experiences heard since the dawn of true prog metal. Sacred Dawn pulls their influence from bands such as Dream Theater, Iron Maiden, Nevermore, Queensryche, Savatage, Fates Warning and many others. From their numerous live appearances across the Midwest to playing alongside international acts such as Symphony X, Cage, Firewind, Kamelot, and Epica, Sacred Dawn has garnered critical acclaim as well as fans around the world. Dark Star Records will be releasing the long awaited sophomore album entitled A Madness Within in the spring of 2011. This new 10 song concept album was produced by Sacred Dawn and Chuck Macak of Electrowerks Music and includes a full color 16 page booklet. Look for a special pre order sale at www.DarkStarRecords.com before the album is released worldwide. Sacred Dawn is: Lothar Keller - Vocals/Guitar, Joey Vega - Bass, Michael Carpenter - Guitar, Eddie Foltz - Drums and Brian Kim – Keyboards. Watch the new music video from Sacred Dawn - Delirium: www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlKqguYB0fI / www.sacreddawn.com.

 

 

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

FIREWORKS - DIGITAL ONLINE RELEASE - ISSUE #43 OUT NOW + LAST CALL FOR ISSUE 44: Fireworks #43 Digital Edition is out now for purchase in magazine format or single page format - both as PDF files. 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. Purchase Digital Download Copy Here 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. Fireworks Magazine Coming To McColls In 2011 - PROMOTE YOUR BAND ON COVER-MOUNTED CD From the next issue, #44, out early February, Fireworks Magazine will now also be available in over 300 McColls outlets and related shops. Combined with WH Smith stores, Fireworks Magazine is now available widespread across UK. For full listing of shops selling the magazine, check out the store listing at Fireworks section in www.rocktopia.net. So there has never been a better opportunity to promote your band via the cover-mounted CD, with prices of only £75 (up to 3 mins) and £125 (3 mins - 4' 30"). There is also the superb value-for-money additional option, where for an extra $100 you get 2 tracks, photos and up to 1000 promotional words on www.melodicrock.com. So any bands interested, please Email Bruce at fireworks.mag@ntlworld.com for further details - deadline FRIDAY!   METAL HEAVEN WELCOMES ED3N AND MORE ARTIST NEWS: Metal Heaven are pleased to announce the signing of American band ED3N. ED3N was formed by bassist Craig Gruber in January 2010. After having a successful career spanning over 25 years in Elf, Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, Gary Moore, Black Sabbath, and selling more than 30 million albums worldwide, Craig decided to put together a great line-up of musicians to form the super group ED3N. ED3N consists of vocalist extraordinaire Jeff Fenholt, whose resume includes Black Sabbath' "7th star" sessions as well as the original vocalist in Broadway's successful Jesus Christ Superstar show. The line-up is completed by the wonderful Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Dio and Heaven & Hell) on drums and Rowan Robertson (Dio) on guitars. ED3N is now preparing to launch the first CD in May 2011 through AOR Heaven in Europe with a world-wide tour following in June 2011. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/edenbandofficial / www.ed3nrock.com (under construction). TNT sent the following YouTube trailer to promote the coming album A Farewell To Arms which will be released in Metal Heaven on January 21: www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7C-FG_OjGw. Berlin based Hard Rock band Soul Doctor has started to work on their new, sixth studio album. The recordings for the yet untitled CD will be finished during Summer 2011 and be scheduled for a release on Metal Heaven for the end of this year. www.souldoctorrocks.com. Swedish AORsters Elevener are currently in the studio, preparing their second album. This time around as a full band featuring Pierre Wensberg - lead vocals (ex-Prisoner & Heartbreak Radio), Magnus Lindqvist - guitar, Robert Garnold - bass (ex-Heartbreak Radio), Anton Roos - drums (Saffire), and founding member Johan Bergquist on keys. Johan says, "I met Magnus, the new guitarist, through a mutual friend and we ended up writing a bunch of new songs. They are all superb musicians and I'm proud to be recording with them and Pierre's vocals are really something else. Can't wait to share the new stuff, hopefully in time for the summer... and to hit the stage with these guys." The upcoming Elevener album will be released in Europe by AOR Heaven later this year. www.myspace.com/elevenelevenagain   From left to right: Pierre Wensberg, Robert Garnold, Anton Roos, Magnus Lindqvist, Johan Bergquist. SAMMY HAGAR BIOGRAPHY 8 WEEKS AWAY: Sammy Hagar—legendary lead singer of Van Halen, founder of the Cabo Wabo Tequila brand, and one of rock music's most notoriously successful performers—tells his unforgettable story in this one-of-a-kind autobiography of a life at the top of the charts. From his decade-long journey alongside Eddie Van Halen to his raucous solo career with Chickenfoot and everything in between—the drugs, groupies, and excesses of fame, the outrageous stadium tours, and the thrill of musical innovation—Hagar reveals all in this treasure trove of rock-and-roll war stories. Red is a life-changing look at one of music's biggest talents—an essential read for music fans and anyone dreaming of becoming rock's next number one star. Red: My Uncensored Life in Rock is available for pre-order at various locations now on Hardback, E-Book and Audio Book. Hardcover, 256 pages. Size is 9" x 6" x 1." This title will be released on March 15, 2011.   OPEN CALL FOR TRIBUTE BANDS: TriStar Entertainment is conducting an open casting call and looking for twelve enthusiastic cover and tribute bands for a Tribute/Cover Band reality television show. We are scouring the globe in search of the best cover and tribute bands dedicated to the 80's rock/metal scene. To be considered, please email a press kit that includes a bio, photos, videos, portfolio to the email below for consideration. In addition to bands, we are also casting for three hosts, male and female. We are looking for someone who isn't shy on camera and can talk about all things 80's. Please send a bio, photos, videos, portfolio to the email below for consideration. Please email info@foreverrockin80s.com or visit www.foreverrockin80s.com for more info. BLOODBOUND RETURN WITH 4TH OPUS: Swedish power metallers Bloodbound are the newest addition to the AFM roster. The band recently signed a contract and will release their fourth album Unholy Cross in March. The band comments: "We are very thrilled to join the AFM family and we are looking forward to the release of our fourth album "Unholy Cross" on the 18th of March. This is a new chapter for the band introducing Patrik Johansson on vocals and a return to the band´s classic metal roots". WebLink: www.afm-records.de/en/news/news-568-Bloodbound.html. STRYPER TO SWEDEN ROCK FESTIVAL: The titans of Christian metal! In the 80s, California's Stryper ranked among the greatest in melodic metal. Albums like "To Hell With the Devil" (1986) sold millions of copies and songs like "Free", "Honestly" and "Always There For You" became smash hits on MTV. Consequently, many of Stryper's fellow Christians claim that the band were not "true" believers. This frustrated the quartet, who gradually switched styles and eventually dissolved. However, history redeemed Stryper's legacy, and the band reunited permanently in 2003. Their music and lyrics are once more reminiscent of the golden age, and currently Stryper's third album since the reunion, the cover release "The Covering", is pending release. Many have yearned for the band to come to SRF, and now they finally will - in their classic original line-up featuring brothers Michael and Robert Sweet (vocals/guitar and drums, respectively), Oz Fox (guitar) and Tim Gaines (bass). More info and the full Sweden Line-Up so far: www.swedenrock.com. ADRIAN GALYSH TO OPEN FOR ULI JON ROTH AND ALCATRAZZ IN CALIFORNIA: Los Angeles, California-based guitarist, Adrian Galysh, will be opening for legendary ex-Scorpions guitarist, Uli Jon Roth and Alcatrazz featuring Graham Bonnet (ex-MSG, Rainbow) in January. Adrian Galysh will also be performing in Uli Jon Roth's band for these Southern California dates. Tuesday, January 18th, 2011 - Brick by Brick (San Diego, CA): Uli Jon Roth only. Thursday, January 20th, 2011 - Majestic Ventura Theatre (Ventura, CA): Uli Jon Roth, Alcatrazz featuring Graham Bonnet, and Adrian Galysh Friday, January 21st, 2011 - Blue Cafe (Huntington Beach, CA): Uli Jon Roth and Adrian Galysh Adrian's third solo album entitled, Earth Tones solidifies Galysh's compositional style and finds his guitar playing in top form. The new recordings feature the powerhouse rhythm section of Marco Mendoza (Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, Ted Nugent) on bass and Joey Heredia (Stevie Wonder, F. Gambale, S. Henderson) on drums. Special guests include Chuck Wright (Quiet Riot, House of Lords) on bass and Glen Sobel (Jennifer Batten, Gary Hoey, Tony MacAlpine) on drums on the track, Planetary Cycles, as well as Carl Verheyen (Supertramp) on second guitar on the track, Terrestrial Races. WebLinks: www.AdrianGalysh.com / www.youtube.com/adriangalysh / www.facebook.com/adriangalysh. POWER QUEST REVEAL THEIR BLOOD ALLIANCE: Welcome to 2011, the year of Power Quest's 10th anniversary. We hope you all have had a great start to the New Year and look forward to seeing you out on the road during the coming months. The track list and running order for the album is as follows; 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). The release dates are scheduled as follows: Jan 26th - Japan, South East Asia Mar 23rd - Spain, Finland, Sweden Mar 25th - Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Benelux, Italy Mar 28th - Rest of Europe Apr 5th - USA and Canada WebLink: www.power-quest.co.uk.

 

 

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

KEVIN SHIRLEY FEATURE INTERVIEW - UPDATED: Producer/Mixer/Engineer Kevin Shirley is the subject of a new Feature Interview. Kevin talks about working with Mr. Big, Journey, Iron Maiden, Black Country Communion, Led Zeppelin and more in a two part interview. FULL INTERVIEW, is online right now. Read: www.melodicrock.com/interviews/kevinshirley-2010.html.   xxxx JOHN WAITE TALKS ROUGH AND TUMBLE: John Waite has prepared an 11 minute video interview in support of his new Rough & Tumble solo album. View the YouTube link below to hear about the genesis of The Babys, the 'missing single' from No Brakes that was Missing You, working with Bad English and the recording of the new studio album:   EDEN'S CURSE COVER TWO CLASSICS ON TRINITY RELEASE: Multinational Melodic Metal band Eden's Curse have paid tribute to the memory of vocal legend Ronnie James Dio by recording a rendition of the Dio classic Rock 'N' Roll Children which is set to be included on all territorial releases of their third studio album Trinity due out in mid March. As first revealed by Blabbermouth on the bands vocalist Michael Eden stated "I loved Ronnie beyond words and have decided with the members of Eden's Curse to include one of Ronnie's metal gems in tribute to his loving memory which will appear on our third release Trinity". Eden went onto add "Today is my worst fear realized. I've lost my favorite singer and a guy I'll always consider a friend. Ronnie James Dio was the singer's singer. Heart, soul and an aggressive energy that no singer could touch". Also, as previously hinted by the band last year, they would also be recording a cover version from one of the groups "biggest influences", which has also now been identified as the Dokken classic Unchain The Night, which is set to be included on the Japanese release of "Trinity" due 16th March on Spiritual Beast. Bassist and chief song smith Paul Logue explained "Unashamedly Dokken, along with Queensryche and Pink Cream 69 have been the three bands whom we built the basis of the Eden's Curse sound around. We missed bands that created that kind of music, and we tried to get as close to that sound and vibe as possible". When it came to providing a bonus track for the Japan release, Logue explained there was one unanimous choice. "Absolutely! It's a song we jammed at rehearsals or sound checks and we always said "we should record this" – I'm so glad we eventually did!" Logue further went onto comment on the proposed Dokken reunion plans "Don and George need to kiss and make up! The hard rock world is a brighter place with Dokken around". One minute samples of both the Dio and Dokken renditions are now streaming at the bands Official MySpace (www.myspace.com/edenscurse) and Facebook sites (facebook.dj/edenscurse). For more updates on Trinity visit: www.EdensCurse.com. MELODIC BRIEFS: The song Big Wheel has been chosen by the producers as the title track for a German action movie! Big Wheel is taken from the latest Mad Max release Welcome America. Mad Max bass player Roland Bergman premieres as an actor and the video clip shows exclusive footage from the upcoming movie: www.youtube.com/watch?v=oeagFUB0AeI. Ultimate Eagles would like to wish a huge Happy New Year to everyone. We hope Santa was kind to y'all! Let's kick off 2011 with confirmation of our Spring Tour starting this April. Check out the shows page for dates. We have a limited supply of exclusive New Kid in Town tour shirts which are available for just £5.95 inc P+P when you purchase your Spring Tour tickets. This is on a first come first served basis, so please hurry to avoid disappointment. Head over to the swag page for more details: www.ultimateeagles.com. ROCK N ROLL BOOKS ACQUIRES BOOK COMPILING STORIES OF FREDDIE MERCURY AND QUEEN: Rock N Roll Books/SCB Distribution is excited to announce the acquisition of two new titles due for publication in 2011: the first, 'Bohemian Rhapsodies: True and Authorized Tales By Queen Fans & Celebrities' by Robyn Dunford,' is officially authorized by Queen's camp and will feature loads of exclusive commentary from those closest to Freddie, including his longtime personal assistant, as well as rock and metal peers of Mercury's as well as the other members of Queen, Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon recounting both funny, personalized stories they experienced first-hand playing alongside the legendary frontman and formidable musicians, and how, in many cases, the band influenced them in their own artistry. From the fan side, readers will be treated to many intimate stories from lifelong fans of Freddie's and Queen who were touched personally by the members of the band in one way or another, whether by their music or the fan's personal relationships with the singer. Please stay tuned for LOADS of exciting forthcoming announcements on stars who will be joining the roster of artists, peers, friends, etc. contributing personalized commentary to this exciting and 100% authorized literary tribute to Freddie Mercury and Queen! Rock N Roll Books is also teaming with author Robyn Dunford to donate a substantial portion of the books' proceeds to the Mercury Phoenix Trust upon publication. Our other recent acquisition teams us with Jeb Wright, longtime webmaster/head interviewer for the popular rock site www.ClassicRockRevisited.com, for a two-volume book series: "Classic Rock Revisited Presents Vol. 1: Rock Icons & Metal Gods" and "Classic Rock Revisited Presents Vol. 2: Fret Board Wizards." Vol. 1 will include exclusive interviews, presented in chapter form, with Tom Scholz of Boston, Steve Perry of Journey, Steve Miller, Paul Rogers of Bad Company/Queen, Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sammy Hagar, Rick Neilson of Cheap Trick, Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, George Thoroughgood, John Anderson of Yes, Mick Jones of Foreigner, Alan Parsons, and Tommy Shaw of Styx; and Rob Halford of Judas Priest, Ozzy Osbourne, Ronnie James Dio, Manny Charlton of Nazzareth, Michael Anthony of Van Halen, Geoff Tate of Queensryche, Lita Ford, Blackie Lawless of WASP, Jason Bonham, Lemmy Kilmister, and Ian Gillan of Deep Purple. Vol. II will include exclusive, chapter-length interviews with Yngwie Malmsteen, Joe Satriani, Slash, Zakk Wylde, Phil Collen of Def Leppard, Ted Nugent, Steve Vai, KK Downing of Judas Priest, Ace Frehley, Robin Trower, Steve Howe of Yes, Buck Darma of Blue Oyster Cult, Neal Schon Journey, Michael Shenker of UFO, Paul Gilbert of Mr. Big, and Steve Morse of Deep Purple. From the publisher: "We're almost unspeakably excited about announcing the publication of both Robyn Dunford's 'Bohemian Rhapsodies' and Jeb Wright's 'Classic Rock Revisited' Interviews Anthology. Robyn has put every ounce of passion Queen would expect from its fans into the preparation of a wildly-entertaining and revealing collection of first-hand stories told from both Queen fans as well as rock star peers of Freddie's. To have the official blessing of Queen's management, and to have the opportunity to donate a portion of the royalties from this book to the charity Queen set up in Freddie Mercury's memory, the Mercury Phoenix Trust – Fighting AIDS Worldwide www.mercuryphoenixtrust.com makes being involved with the release of this book that much more of an honor. We intend this book to be a true and honest tribute to Freddie Mercury's singular legacy, and to that end, we will release this title on the 20th anniversary of his passing on November 24th, 2011. On another equally-as-exciting front, our staff here are all fans of Jeb's site, Classic Rock Revisited, which has built a solid reputation as one of the leading interview sites for Rock and Metal's A-List stars over the past decade. The opportunity to partner with him on the publication of an anthology of his Headlining interview series with the biggest names in the business will make GREAT reading for fans worldwide across every sub-genre of rock and metal! Please check back at www.rocknrollbooks.com in the coming months for more announcements regarding both of these exciting titles and Happy New Year!' CLANDESTINE ANNOUNCES SIGNING TO NIGHTMARE RECORDS: Nightmare Records is pleased to announce the signing of Los Angeles, California's Clandestine. Clandestine Female fronted melodic rock with a serious emphasis on kick you in the face attitude. Their debut album "The Invalid" will be released on February 15, 2011. Nightmare Records is based out of St. Paul Minnesota and is distributed Red. Mixed by well known producer Sylvia Massey (Tool, System Of A Down), this band has wickedly infections melodies and music that crosses many lines in the sand of purists rock, alternative, electronic and metal genres an extremely impressive, 10 fresh songs equaling a 45 minute slab of hard edged rock that never fails to deliver on all levels. The band is fronted by singer June Park who wields a very impressive almost otherworldly and fierce voice. Enigmatic and engaging she is without a doubt, a star on the rise. The four-piece is fulfilling the thirst of today's music fans that are in search of a new sound that triggers their ultimate aural pleasure. Clandestine's ultimate goal is combining diverse influences and styles that mark a new generation with an unnamed creation while striving to provide a sonic link from the past to the future. Clandestine is a truly unique band, combining progressive rock with female fronted metal, a touch of electronic music that enhances the futuristic timbre, and some smooth huge pop melodies. "The Invalid" is a must for fans of bands as diverse as Evanescence, Dream Theater, Fair to Midland, Rush, Lacuna Coil, Tool and Between the Buried & Me. What more can you ask for? WebLink: www.clandestineband.com

 

 

Monday, January 10, 2011

WELCOME TO 2011: Welcome to MelodicRock.com for 2011. As usual there's still a bit of work to be done to put 2010 behind us, including the MelRock Awards, which will be online in their usual (except for last year) full detail next month, all going well. There are some outstanding reviews also, but due to the intense workload ahead of me and the need to review more titles than ever, once the next reviews update is done, all missed 2010 titles will have to be passed over in order to keep up with new titles which are already flowing healthily onto the market! New CD Showcases coming up to preview many of them. The new TNT impresses, as does Bad Habit, and Ten are back in shape finally and Mr. Big - what can one say about that! Plenty of smaller releases also impressing, so stay tuned. The big one for melodic metal fans is going to be Eden's Curse. What an absolute heavy/melodic/twisting/diverse monster these guys have created!! I have another Van Halen report in development. It seems things have changed again... And I'm pleased to say that the brand new MelodicRock.com site started design and development stage today! Those that donated to the upgrade will get an e-mail shortly with more details and of course you can still donate to the cause via the PayPal button in the left menu. The new design will replace this entire site - from the ground up - so enjoy the last weeks of this design and get ready! I have another fundraising campaign coming up - a big on-site auction of CDs and memorabilia and special stuff for fans that you'll be able to bid on right here (not going via EBay...keeping it simple). Black Country Communion start working on their second album today, and Part 2 of my Kevin Shirley interview is due online tomorrow. Here in Australia the rain continues to fall over 4 states including here in Tasmania, with flood watch advices just issued for the week ahead of us. It's been a wet and soggy Summer for weeks now. Too late for those in Queensland though - and parts of New South Wales and Victoria also being hit. And it's still raining...keep those affected in your thoughts. The flood waters cover an area now bigger than France and Germany combined! And last of all - the sad and untimely passing of another rock legend in Y&T's Phil Kennemore. Many will have met Phil over the years and I was fortunately enough to do so at MelodicRockFest in May 2010. No one would have guessed he'd be gone only months later, so on behalf of the melodic rock community and those readers of MelodicRock.com, my sincere and heartfelt condolences to all the Y&T guys, those that knew Phil well and those who were just fans. Another tragic loss. Piercing Metal has this tribute to Phil online: piercingmetal.com/wordpress/?p=5367. And Billboard covered Phil here: www.billboard.com/news/phil-kennemore-y-t-bassist-dies-at-57-1004138293.story And once again, sadly I must pass on news from melodic.net of the death of a great record producer in Pat Moran. I was a huge fan of Pat's work - he always captured the best of the artists he worked with, including Lou Gramm (Ready Of Not - his best album), Tom Cochrane (Tom Cochrane & Red Rider - also his best album), Robert Plant (Pictures At Eleven & Principal Of Moments), Danny Wilde (Any Man's Hunger - arguably his best solo album), Jon Butcher Axis, Big Country and John Miles (Transition - brought by myself on the very basis of Pat Moran's name). Another great loss to this community. R.I.P. Pat and Phil (pictured below - captured by Georg Loegler taken on the fall 2009 Y&T German tour).   xx JOE LYNN TURNER "WELCOME HOME JOE" SHOWS SCHEDULED FOR FEBRUARY: Joe Lynn Turner's longtime friend, collaborator and guitarist, Karl Cochran, helped to arrange some "Welcome Home JLT" shows next month. As you know, Joe's been busy touring with Over The Rainbow and as a solo artist in Russia/Turkey/Eastern Europe. After some shows with Big Noize late January in Los Angeles, California and Brazil, he will be back in the States for a these dates in and close to his home state of New Jersey. There have been some rumors about these shows posted online but they were just confirmed January 7. February 11: The Chance, Poughkeepsie, NY February 12: The Crazy Donkey, Farmingdale, NY February 13: Dingbats, Clifton, NJ The Jan Holberg Project, featuring Joe Lynn Turner, will release their new album Sense Of Time March 28 in Norway. The band will do three shows to support the album. Besides playing songs from their new album they will also perform songs from JLT's time as a frontman in Rainbow and Deep Purple, plus a few songs from his solo career. The concert dates are (all in Norway): 27th April - Blaest (Trondheim) 28th April - John Dee (Oslo) 30th April - Hemnehallen (Hemne) ROBERT PLANT TALKS ZEPPELIN REUNION, ALISON KRAUSS: From Rolling Stone magazine via Gibson.com: "Rolling Stone has a candid Robert Plant interview in this month's issue of the magazine. Plant talks about why he won't be taking part in any more Led Zeppelin reunion shows, why the sessions for his sophomore album with Alison Krauss didn't go well, and why Tony Blair is to blame for his creative block. Plant also spoke of how utterly unimpressed he is with his musical peers. Of Led Zeppelin's acclaimed reunion show at the O2 in London in 2007, Plant says, "It was an amazing evening. The preparations for it were fraught and intense, but the last rehearsal was really, really good, for all that it represented and all that we were trying to capture. But I've gone so far somewhere else that I almost can't relate to it ... It's a bit of a pain in the [expletive] to be honest. Who cares? I know people care, but think about it from my angle – soon, I'm going to need help crossing the street." Of recording sessions with Alison Krauss intended to capture the follow-up to the duo's Grammy-winning Raising Sand, Plant says, "The sound wasn't there. Alison is the best. She's one of my favorite people. We'll come back to it." Of the reason he's quit writing songs lately, Plants says, "The last time I lifted a pen was when Tony Blair became a Roman Catholic. We were supposedly going into the Gulf, determined to sort the world out in the name of tyranny. Then, once he had to leave the throne, he became a Roman Catholic and became a peace envoy in the Middle East. That's when I knew the world was completely upside down." Of his '70s rock and roll peers, Plant says, "There's nothing worse than a bunch of jaded old farts, and that's a fact. People who have written their story – they've gotten to the point where nothing moves. I don't deal in that, and I don't deal with anybody who deals in that." AVANTASIA - NEW DVD ARTWORK REVEALED: From AFM Records: "While you are reading these lines the editors are putting the finishing touches on the forthcoming Avantasia double DVD (concert film and documentary) The Flying Opera - Around the world in 20 days. Both DVDs portray the all-star ensemble's journey on their first ever world tour in 2008. Within just a few weeks the studio project Avantasia became a traveling live event featuring many artists from various bands who got together and set off on the road under the flag of Avantasia for the first time. "The Flying Circus - Around the world in 20 days" will be available as a 2-DVD set featuring the documentary movie, a live concert film, and additional bonus material. It will be also available as a double live album on CD and as a limited edition 2-CD / 2-DVD boxset. The release is set for early March.   MELODIC BRIEFS: From Roadrunner Records: "As reported yesterday at blabbermouth.net, Dream Theater are indeed hard at work on their new album, set for release later this year. While the band still has yet to reveal their new drummer, guitarist John Petrucci checked in from Twitter to offer the following update: First day in studio and the dawn of a new era for DT." 2011 marks the 20th anniversary of Mario Parga's first solo album, The Magician (1991). President Records (who originally released the album) and Mario have been in touch recently with potential ideas to commemorate the album. At the moment, there is a strong possibility that the popular track 'Heatwave' from The Magician will be re-recorded by Mario as a special edition digital download. Mario talks about it a little more in his blog: marioparga.com/blog. Elektradrive updated fans with the following message: "It's a pleasure for us to present to you our first official video, after 25 years of career since the band started , and four albums: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmcry2UDUOk. The video is shot in HQ and 21:9 format (wide screen); is directed by Ludovico Galletti, the track is "Dirty war of bloody angels" and it's taken from the band last album "Living 4" (Valery Records). If you want to know more about the band, you can visit our official site: www.elektradrive.com. TONY HARNELL GREETS THE NEW YEAR: Tony Harnell sent out this mailing list message: "I know I'm a bit late, but I wanted to wish you all a very Happy New Year and hope that your holidays, whatever your faith, were most enjoyable. I wanted to send this email out to thank you all again for being so amazing and supportive last year. 2010 was definitely better than 2009 by a long shot! I continued healing from my mother's passing and my own health scare and subsequent surgery in spring 2009. It knocked me down for a bit and I haven't spoken about it much till a couple of months ago but all is good now. It feels great that we actually got an album released, did some shows in NY, Norway, Spain and Florida and I'm almost back to my old self. My bands both in NY and in Sweden really helped me through some tough times. I love them all very much. 2011 should be interesting. We are working on new material. We're not sure if we'll release a full album or a few songs at a time. We'll have to see how things go. I hope to do a lot more shows this year either solo or with the Train or maybe in some other unforeseen situation, such as last year's Queen Symphonic Rhapsody which was a huge success and a lot of fun. I'll be announcing a New York show soon and hopefully more good things to come. Much love to you all, Tony and Amy." SHAKRA: BACK ON TRACK COVER, TRACK LIST & VIDEO TRAILER RELEASED: Swiss hard rockers Shakra will be back, back on track! On February 25th the new album will se the light of day. But Back On Track is a lot more than just a new album, it can be seen as a statement of the band that is aiming to exceed their success of the last years with their new vocalist John Prakesh now. A first video teaser can be found here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5ri-oftnuk. Cover and track list of "Back On Track" have been released now: 01. B True B You 02. I'll Be 03. Crazy 04. Back On Track 05. When I See You 06. MMTWGR 07. Yesterday's Gone 08. Someday 09. Lonesomeness 10. Unspoken Truth 11. Brand New Day 12. Stronger Than Ever.   NELSON TALK TO ROCKPAGES: Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine did an exclusive face to face interview with Matthew and Gunnar Nelson before the band's headlining appearance in Firefest Festival in England. Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr: Actually quite a few artists start their own label and then go to a record company and ask them if they can do the distribution. GN: What happened back then was this: you would go to a bank, get a loan to buy a house and after you'd paid back the loan the bank would still own your house! That was what the business was like. Nowadays, we are renting the rights to the record company – let's say for three years – and then we get them back and we can make a deal with somebody else. And some bands are doing that when they gain some fame with their first album like we did. It's then easier to do something like that and have more control, which is really cool. We spend five years with a very large label like Geffen Records that wouldn't let us off, it was so painful! MN: We wanted to be in control of our own destiny. GN: People ask us why didn't we make any records and that was why! When your label won't release your album you can't release your album through another label. They own you! And now we have a lot more freedom. Rockpages.gr: How come Mark Slaughter is a member of your band? GN: Mark lives were I live, Nashville Tennessee, and we formed a band named Scrap Metal which is really a band of artists that had success in the 80s like the two of us, Mark, CJ Snare, Jimi Jamison, Janet Gardner from Vixen, Joe Lynn Turner, Eric Martin. And everybody would go on stage and perform their three or four major hits. So the whole gig was actually songs that everybody could sing along! It was really cool! That's how we started working with Mark. And we had so much fun with it, that we asked him to play guitar for our band. People see him as a lead singer and they don't realize what a great guitar player he is. Mark started out as a guitar teacher and he just happened to fall into the singing thing. And of course we've got Neil Zaza on this tour who is really an excellent lead guitar player. Rockpages.gr: Do you think there is still space for melodic rock nowadays? GN: Yes, there is! This thing from the 80s is coming back! All of a sudden it is pretty cool! It wasn't cool for about fifteen years except from Bon Jovi who were the only band that had multi million selling records. What happened in the late 80s and early 90s probably won't happen again in the same way. But the internet has helped, satellite radio has helped and even Guitar Hero has done a lot for all of it! We've got kids jamming to a lot of 80s hits and loving it! That has helped a lot too! Read The Full Interview at: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=5023&type=1&lang=EN.

 

 

Wednesday, January 05, 2011

JIMI JAMISON & BOBBY KIMBALL JOIN FORCES: Jimi Jamison (ex-Survivor singer) and Bobby Kimball (ex-Toto lead singer) are joining forces together in a duet album produced by Mat Sinner from the German Heavy Metal band Primal Fear. Jimi and Bobby are currently putting their finishing touches on the recording of the lead vocals in Los Angeles, while the musical tracks have been recorded in Germany. The songs on the album, which promises to be one of the highlights of 2011 in the Melodic Rock scene, have been selected from several songwriters including Jim Peterik, Richard Page (Mr Mister), Randy Goodrum (Toto, Steve Perry), Robert Sall (Work of Art), John Waite and more melodic rock luminaries. Jimi and Bobby can be seen in this video clip on Facebook presenting the album: www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1756792922076#!/video/video.php?v=1756792922076. The release is currently penciled for spring 2011. More details to be announced shortly.   EDEN'S CURSE ENLIST VOCAL GREAT FOR TRINITY: Multinational Melodic Metal band Eden's Curse return with their latest and third studio release Trinity on March 18 via AFM Records. The band have been working daily on this release fine tuning every last detail over the last twelve months. Eden's Curse are delighted to announce that leading the infamous Curse Choir this time around is none other than Dream Theater vocalist James LaBrie. LaBrie lends his backing vocals to the entire album and also duets with Eden's Curse front man Michael Eden on the slamming epic No Holy Man, which is also set to be released by AFM Records as a digital single on 25th February. A promotional video is currently in production as well. Michael Eden says "James recorded the Trinity sessions at Iguana Studios in Ontario straight after he finished his solo release, Static Impulse, which was perfect timing as he headed off on tour with Iron Maiden immediately after". James LaBrie himself added "In 2010 I was fortunate to discover Eden's Curse. I absolutely love this band. Great players and people and they deserve nothing but huge success. They belong with the best of today's music. Trust me, you're going to love this from beginning to end". Bass player and main song writer Paul Logue explains "James was highly professional, as you'd expect, extremely approachable and very enthusiastic about our music. We sealed the deal very quickly and we got him in top form as he was also in the middle of recording and we feel the end results are breathtaking". Front man Michael Eden further adds "Trinity has been a long time in the making as we always strive to bring our current fan base and new fans our very best. I spoke with James LaBrie backstage on the Iron Maiden tour last summer and we had a great conversation. James has a way of making you see things in a different light than other people. It was an honor to have him along for the ride and we hope that it is not the last time we work together". Eden then goes on to add "We still have more cool surprises we will announce soon, this party is just getting started". A 90 second clip of No Holy Man is online at the bands official MySpace site: www.myspace.com/edenscurse. Trinity was produced by the bands long time producer Dennis Ward (Krokus, Pink Cream 69, Angra) and will also be released in Japan via Spiritual Beast and in the USA on Metal Mayhem.   xx FRONTIERS ANNOUNCED BENEDICTUM'S DOMINION: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Benedictum anticipated third full length album entitled Dominion on February 18 in Europe and March 8th in North America. Surging forward as they are driven by the powerful momentum of front woman Veronica Freeman - whose unique and powerful style has been called one of the truly most extraordinary voices in Metal - and the guitar pyrotechnics of writer and guitarist Pete Wells, the time has come for the world to be on notice. Benedictum is again upon us. Formed in 2005 and quickly noticed by Dio guitarist Craig Goldy, the wheels were soon set in motion for their debut album "Uncreation". The collaboration of producer Jeff Pilson (Dokken, Dio, Foreigner) and the musical works of vocalist Veronica Freeman and Pete Wells along with the talent of drummer Blackie Sanchez, bassist Jesse Wright and keyboardist Chris Morgan, "Uncreation" was released to great reviews. Benedictum was selected as one of the top bands to watch in 2006 by Classic Rock magazine and one of Rock Hard Germany's top 50 albums for that year. Guest appearances included Jeff Pilson, Craig Goldy and Jimmy Bain. The result of the second collaboration between Jeff Pilson and Benedictum was their 2008 release "Seasons of Tragedy" which evolved them into a Metal force which could not be denied. With Veronicas' raw and powerful vocals, songs with memorable melodies and the magical talent of Pete Wells along with new drummer Paul Courtois and the guidance of Jeff Pilson, "Seasons of Tragedy" further solidified the fact that there was something quite special at work here. "Seasons of Tragedy" garnered more great reviews and were on many a list for top albums of 2008. Guest appearances again by Jeff Pilson, Craig Goldy and also George Lynch who added his special flare to the track Bare Bones and the cover of Accept's "Balls to the Wall". Their driving music and energetic shows allowed Benedictum to grace the stage of many festivals including Wacken, Gods of Metal, HRH and a tour with DORO. Now ready for yet another amazing chapter, Benedictum are off on a new and exciting musical episode as they have signed a contract with Frontiers Records. Building upon their great foundation Benedictum has recruited Grammy Award winning producer Ryan Greene (Megadeth, F5, MXPX, NOFX) and are firing on all cylinders. With members Chris Shrum now on bass, Mike Pannone on drums and Tony Diaz on keyboards the new music promises to continue to expand the horizon for Benedictum and is sure to please current fans as well. From the onslaught of the opening track Dominion to the epic Epsilon and the heartfelt acoustic track Sanctuary, this album has it all. Adding to the already explosive sound of Dominion are guest appearances by Jeff Pilson, Craig Goldy and none other than Rudy Sarzo on the fist pumping track Bang. The album "Dominion" contains an absolute musical journey with powerful riffs, well thought out lyrics and truly amazing musicianship. Crank it up, give it a listen and you too will become a "Victim of Benedictum"! "Dominion" track listing includes: Dominion; At The Gates; Seer; Grind It; Prodigal Son; The Shadowlands; Beautiful Pain; Dark Heart; Bang; Loud Silence; Epsilon; Sanctuary (Bonus Track); Overture/The Temples of Syrinx (Bonus Track).   xx GLENN HUGHES SET TO ROCK THE UK SOLO: Following two sold out December UK gigs with rock supergroup Black Country Communion, iconic vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes, is pleased to announce an 11-date UK tour in May 2011. Click here to read the official announcement: www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/glennhughes/tour.htm. Formerly of Trapeze and Deep Purple, the forthcoming UK concerts will showcase highlights from his Glenn's colourful career. "Following the incredible reaction we received from last week's Black Country Communion UK shows, I'm looking forward to touring solo in the UK in May," says Hughes. Tickets go on sale to the general public at 9am on Friday 7th January 2011. Leading UK gig guide website www.ents24.com is offering fans an exclusive pre-sale from 9am on Wednesday 5th January. The May 2011 UK tour dates include Northampton Roadmenders (14), Cambridge Junction (15), Birkenhead Arts Centre (17), Buxton Opera House (18), Edinburgh Picture House (20), Aberdeen Lemon Tree (21), York Opera House (23), Norwich Waterfront (24), Brighton Komedia (26), Poole Mr Kyps (27) and Birmingham Town Hall (29). POP LEGEND GERRY RAFFERTY DIES: R.I.P. Gerry Rafferty - www.guardian.co.uk/music/2011/jan/04/gerry-rafferty-obituary.