Today's Day In Rock News!

Van Halen Plan To Resume Touring This Fall
(hennemusic) It looks like Van Halen will be returning to the road this Fall after making major headlines recently when they abruptly postponed a full series of summer US dates of its "A Different Kind Of Truth" tour without explanation.
Eddie Van Halen, who spoke with USA Today last week about the tour during an interview session with son and bassist, Wolfgang, in San Francisco last week. "We bit off more than we could chew," explained Eddie. "This record took a lot out of us. And we went on tour earlier than we wanted to so we could play Madison Square Garden (in March, before a renovation), and that threw the schedule out of whack."

The band will have completed more than 40 shows on this leg, and "a lot of the canceled dates were in cities we already played," he says. "So in November we'll hit Japan, and in the new year we'll possibly do something special, but I can't talk about it." more on this story


AC/DC Singer Burned By Cannon
(Classic Rock) AC/DC singer Brian Johnson says he's spent 30 years being burned by the cannon fired during their track For Those About to Rock We Salute You.

He's also experienced a number of near-miss accidents when swinging from the Hell's Bells stage prop. And the veteran singer says the band would consider making more festival appearances in future after breaking their own rule to play the Download event at Donington, UK in 2010.

Johnson recently revealed the Australian giants were preparing to discuss work on a new album after taking time off following their two-year Black Ice world tour. He's already ruled out another global trek of that magnitude, describing it as "body-breaking" – and suggests their no-festival policy is a thing of the past as a result. more on this story



Scorpions To Play World Cup Concert and Give Up Retirement Plans
(Classic Rock) Scorpions guitarist Matthias Jabs has confirmed the band have given up on their plan to split – although they probably won't keep going the way they have in the past.

He says they've been invited to play at the opening ceremony of football's 2014 World Cup competition in Brazil. And he adds their next studio project is likely to include completed versions of songs they didn't finish in the 1980s and 1990s.

The German outfit announced their intention to break up after one last work tour in 2009. But as more and more dates were added they admitted they were reconsidering the decision. more on this story



Soundgarden Reverse Black Sabbath Insult
(Classic Rock) Soundgarden are no longer the band who said they wanted to be "Black Sabbath without the parts that suck."

That's a statement guitarist Kim Thayall made long before their public meltdown in 1997, when bassist Ben Shepherd threw down his instrument and marched off ahead of official confirmation they'd split. But now singer Chris Cornell tells Classic Rock: "We're trying to add all the parts that suck back in."

His comments appear in the current edition of the magazine, dated July 2012, as Cornell talks about the organic nature of their reunion – which came about as they discussed tidying up business arrangements such as merchandise deals and online presence. more on this story



Motorhead Launch Their Own Beer
(hennemusic) A year after rock legends Motorhead launched their own brand of red wine, the group has unveiled their own beer.

Bastards Lager is brewed by Swedish brewery Krönleins and can be ordered by the whole case from Systembolaget, the Swedish state liquor shop.

"You're never too old for rock 'n' roll and good chilled beer. That always works well together!" says Motorhead drummer Mikkey Dee. more on this story



Riot Fest Expands To Five Cities Across North America
It looks there will be riots across North America this summer as the Riot Fest will be holding one day events in Brooklyn, NY, Toronto, ON and Dallas, TX in addition to the previously announced events in Philadelphia, PA and Chicago.

Philadelphia: Riot Fest lineup includes: Refused, The Promise Ring, August Burns Red, Off!, Gameface, Boy Sets Fire and Hirs performing at Festival Pier at Penn's Landing one day only on Thursday, July 19.

Brooklyn: Riot Fest line-up includes: Descendents, Hot Water Music, The Bronx, Screaming Females, The Menzingers and Larry And His Flask, performing at Williamsburg Park on Saturday, September 8.





Hank3 Adds Summer Tour Leg
Hank3 has added a third leg to his 2012 U.S. tour with a new string of dates taking place this summer.

The next leg of the tour kicks off on August 10th in Fort Worth, TX at the Rail Club, and will blaze through several western states up until September 4th when it comes to a stop in Boulder, CO at the Boulder Theater.

Late last year, Hank3 released four new records to fans simultaneously. These titles include Ghost to a Ghost/Guttertown, Attention Deficit Domination and 3 Bar Ranch Cattle Callin. more on this story




The Ataris Frontman Releases Free Album
The Ataris frontman Kristopher Roe if offering fans a free download of his acoustic album, Hang Your Head In Hope.

Included in the 14-track album are quite a few old Ataris songs, along with some new songs that will appear on The Graveyard of the Atlantic, out this fall via Paper + Plastick Records.

Among the new songs are "All Souls Day" and "The Graveyard of the Atlantic," which were first released on 7-inch vinyl via Paper + Plastick. Both of those songs will appear on The Ataris' new record, due for a fall release on the label.

The old songs are taken from The Ataris' spanning discography and include many fan favorites. "San Dimas High School Football Rules," 'Your Boyfriend Sucks," "In This Diary," "The Hero Dies In This One" and more are sure to pique the curiosity of old fans. Hang Your Head In Hope offers a different way to freshen up on The Ataris' history and provides a small holdover until The Graveyard of the Atlantic comes out later this year. Grab the free album here.




Prong To Follow Clutch Tour With Corrosion of Conformity Shows
Prong have confirmed a new batch of tour dates for this July where they will be hitting the road with Corrosion of Conformity.

These dates follow the string of dates that Prong is already scheduled to play with Clutch in July.

Prong has been selected as one of the bands to play on this year's inaugural "Knotfest" hosted by Slipknot. The two date festival will take place August 17th in Pacific Junction, IA and August 18th in Somerset, WI. more on this story




Nada Surf Plan North American Tour
Nada Surf will be hitting the road next week for a North American summer tour before they head over to Europe and extensive trek.

Nada Surf's North American tour will also feature Waters and will kick off on June 19th in Lancaster, PA, and wraps up July 5th in Baltimore, MD.

The band has also released a new music video for the song "Waiting For Something," off their recently released seventh album The Stars Are Indifferent To Astronomy more on this story



Corey Taylor Explains Stone Sour's Double Concept Albums
(Gibson) Corey Taylor, singer with Slipknot has announced plans for his other musical project, Stone Sour. He says the band's fourth album will be a two-part double concept album called House of Gold and Bones.

According to NME.com, Taylor tweeted at Twitter.com/CoreyTaylorRock: "I promised today you'd get the explanation to HoGaB. Well, today that's exactly what you get. The new Stone Sour album is a two-part double concept album called 'House of Gold and Bones' (HoGaB), parts 1 and 2. Part 1 will drop in October 2012. Part 2 will drop next year. 24 songs, 12 on each disc."

He explained that, "each disc will include one half of the story – for lyrics, you'll have to visit our site. Once I lock in the company who will help me put it together, there will be a comic book as well. Song titles include 'Absolute Zero', 'RU486', 'A Rumor Of Skin' and 'Taciturn'. Very excited for everyone to hear it! Stay tuned!" more on this story





Fang Island Map Out Summer Tour Plans
Fang Island will be hitting the road in July with headlining shows in North American in support of their new album release (Zechs Marquise will appear at several dates).

Their new album, Major will be available everywhere on LP, CD and download via Sargent House on July 24th, 2012.

"One of our core ideas has always been that our songs would be all of your favorite parts of the song that other bands make you wait 8 minutes to get to," explains guitarist/vocalist Jason Bartell. "We wanted to be the band that's nothing but your favorite hooks back to back." more on this story




The Bouncing Souls Kick Off Summer Tour
The Bouncing Souls kicked off their two-month long North American headline tour last night in Washington, DC.

The band is on the road supporting their brand new studio album, Comet, which hit stores yesterday.

Comet was produced by the legendary Bill Stevenson (Descendents, ALL, Black Flag) at The Blasting Room in Ft. Collins, CO. more on this story




Band of Skulls To Tour With Jane's Addiction and Red Hot Chili Peppers
Band of Skulls will be kicking their North American tour at Lollapalooza in Chicago on August 3rd before embarking on a few headlining dates intermingled with opening spots for Jane's Addiction.

In October, they'll be opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers for six dates before ending the trip at the Austin City Limits Festival on October 13th.

Band of Skulls will be continuing to tour in support of their most recent release, Sweet Sour, which was released in February of this past year. more on this story




The Flower Kings Streaming New Music Online
The Flower Kings are giving fans an advance listen to their new album Banks Of Eden, which will be released on June 19th in the US and June 18th in Europe.

The band are currently a medley of the 25-minute opening track to the album, entitled "Numbers." you can listen here

Banks Of Eden was recorded with the band playing live in one room in a studio in January 2012, a recording much like in the old days of classic prog, before computers hit the market. more on this story




Russian Circles Summer Tour Plans
Russian Circles have mapped out headlining tour dates in both North American and Australian/New Zealand.

The band will be supported by various bands on the trek including And So I Watch You From Afar, Chelsea Wolfe, Marriages, Indian Handcrafts, Deafheaven and Crypts.

This continues Russian Circles' already lengthy treks in support of their new album, Empros. more on this story




The Dirty Heads To Rock Jimmy Kimmel and Stream New Album Online
The Dirty Heads will celebrate the release of their forthcoming album, Cabin By The Sea, with a performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on July 10th.

The appearance will feature the first-ever nationally televised performance of their hit "Spread Too Thin" from JKL's famed Outdoor Stage. The album is set for global release on Five Seven Music on June 19th.

Fans can get an advance listen to the album which is currently streaming in full at Spotify right here.



Madness To Follow Buckingham Palace Roof Gig With Tour
(Gibson) Madness made history when they played on top of Buckingham Palace for the Queen last week, now the band is preparing for a winter tour of the U.K.

The Charge of the Mad Brigade tour kicks off with a House Of Fun Weekender at Butlins Minehead from November 23-26, and winds up in London on December 14.

Madness will also release a new album, Liberty Of Norton Folgate, at then end of 2012. more on this story





TesseracT Vocalist Leaves The Group
The TesseracT camp sent over word yesterday that the band has parted ways with frontman Elliot Coleman.

"Sadly, our good buddy Elliot has decided to leave team TesseracT," said bassist Amos Williams in a statement. "We'd like to thank Elliot for everything he has done for us. We have loved having him be a part of this beast. He introduced us to a completely different side of our sound, as well the delights of Pho! Things we will always be grateful for.

"So, as well as continuing to write and record album 2, we are also on the hunt for that special (shpecial) person to be the new full-time TesseracT vocalist." A video statement from Elliot can be seen here.



Hour Of Penance Announce New Member
Hour Of Penance have recruited drummer James Payne (Hiss From The Moat, Broken Heart Collage) to join their lineup.

Guitarist Giulio Moschini had the following to say: "Please welcome our new drummer James Payne. I've known him for quite a long time and he's a very talented drummer. We're proud to have him on board! James will be playing with us starting at Hellfest this weekend, and all of our dates on the Extreme fests here in Europe."

Payne commented, "I started my drumming career as a death metal drummer, but over the years I ended up playing several different styles. While I still enjoy playing those styles, death metal has always remained in my heart and now it's time to bring it back! I am honored to be playing with a great band such as HOUR OF PENANCE!" more on this story




Social Distortion Star Added To The Hootenanny
The Hootenanny has added Jonny Two Bags (of Social Distortion) and his band Salvation Town to the festival's lineup.

They will join Rancid, The Rev. Horton Heat, Lucero, Bouncing Souls and others at Oak Canyon Ranch in Silverado Canyon, Ca on July 7.

Jonny Two Bags joined Social Distortion in 2000. Jonny is currently performing solo shows and working on a forthcoming solo album. The Hootenanny performance will be his first with backing band Salvation Town. more on this story



The Apache Relay To Tour With Young The Giant and Mumford & Sons.
The Apache Relay will busy on the road this summer having announced North American tour treks with both Young The Giant and Mumford & Sons.

The band will be hitting the road in July beginning with a date at Milwaukee Summerfest on July 5, before heading out on the road supporting Young The Giant for a number of dates and a headline date on July 22 at New York City's Mercury Lounge.

The band will follow up these shows by following good friends Mumford & Sons on their specially curated "Gentlemen of the Road" Stopovers across the United States in August. The Apache Relay are one of the only bands that will be playing at every Stopover. more on this story



Icarus Witch To Rise in July
Cleopatra Records have set a July 3rd release date for Icarus Witch's new album, entitled Rise.

Says Jason Myers, "On RISE, all restrictions of what we could or could not do were removed. The result is a completely fresh approach, new territory being explored, more diversity, better energy, by far the biggest progression in songwriting in the band's history. This album took courage to create. We certainly didn't take the safe or expected route and know that we're rolling the dice with some bold moves." Continues Tom Wierzbicky, "This was a very unique album that we put together. There were times where you would be pulling from the other side of the spectrum, sometimes taking yourself out of your comfort zone."

The band will be hitting the road with White Wizzard and Widow in August to support the new album. more on this story




Get New Erik Norlander Release Now Ahead of August Release
(Glass Onyon) The official release date for the DVD/CD sets, Erik Norlander: The Galactive Collective "Definitive Edition" and "Live in Gettysburg," is August 6th, 2012 when the titles will be available at retailers worldwide, but you can get them NOW from Gonzo Multimedia in the UK and on June 21st from Think Tank Media in the USA.

In 2009, master keyboardist, Erik Norlander, went into the studio with a new set of virtuoso musicians to record re-imaginings of his favorite instrumental compositions as a project called "The Galactic Collective." In 2010, Erik released a preview of the project on CD-R through Chian Productions in Ohio. In 2011, Erik took the project on the road and recorded the results.

Now in 2012, we finally have the complete document of Erik's massive undertaking in two remarkable releases, one in studio, the other on stage. Each title includes a video DVD and two audio CDs released by Erik's company, Think Tank Media, in partnership with UK prog giant, Gonzo Multimedia. All discs are replicated -- not CD-R or DVD-R -- and each contains deluxe, full-color 5x7" booklets with extensive liner notes written by those directly involved with the project. more on this story



B Sides


Singled Out: Ryan Humbert's Mayday
Today Ryan Humbert tells us about the song "Mayday" from his brand new album "Sometimes The Game Plays You," which was released this week. Here is the story:

"Mayday" is a song that started off in a very different spot from where it ended up. When I wrote it originally, it was faster and with completely different music. The band even played it out for a while. It was fun and sounded like something Sonny & Cher might do if they were still putting out new music. However, lyrically it was much darker than the melody and tune led you to believe.

While I was trying to figure out what to record for this album I came across "Mayday" again. After playing through it I realized the music wasn't allowing the lyrics to do their job properly. I ended up scrapping the music completely. I changed it from the key of B flat to the key of D and started from scratch, coming up with a new melody and chord structure. I didn't change even one word of the lyrics though.

After playing both versions for the band, they agreed with me that the new version was far superior. We ended up recording "Mayday" in Nashville, with Ken Coomer (Wilco) on drums, in it's new, darker and more introspective clothing. That version is what you hear on "Sometimes The Game Plays You."

Hearing is believing. Now that you know the story behind the song, listen for yourself and learn more about the album right here!



Sebastian Bach, Duff McKagan and Lar Ulrich's Wild Night
(Classic Rock) Sebastian Bach has recalled one of his earliest experiences of being a rock star and it has all the trappings of 1980s Sunset Strip excess.

His big night on the town saw him downing Quaaludes with Guns N' Roses bassist Duff McKagan, while Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich tried to take advantage of their wasted state by selling photo opportunities to passing fans.

Like many of the greatest stories in West Hollywood, events unfolded in the Rainbow Bar and Grill. Bach tells the New York Times of an evening that took place around 1989, soon after Skid Row had released their single Eighteen And Life. He'd hired a white Corvette and felt like the Pied Piper: "I walked from the Hyatt Riot House over to the Rainbow and by the time I got there, there were 300 people behind me going, 'Is that him? That's him!'" more on this story



Five Finger Death Punch Release Coming Down Video
Five Finger Death Punch have released their new music video for the song, "Coming Down". We were sent these details:

The visually arresting video that addresses teen suicide was directed by Nick Peterson, with Randi Wilens serving as executive producer, in association with NXTdream Films LLC. The final screen of the music video offers a call to action in sharing, "Don't ignore the chance to get help for you or someone you know who might be in crisis. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline now at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), suicidepreventionlifeline.org." Watch the video here.

Last week, Five Finger Death Punch announced a suicide prevention initiative promoting the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. In cooperation with the Lifeline, the band has filmed a public service announcement, which will be placed on all broadcast, cable and web outlets interested in supporting the initiative. more on this story



Slash Jams Guns N' Roses Classic With Halestorm's Lzzy Hale
(hennemusic) Slash is currently touring Europe in support of his newly-released sophomore solo album, "Apocalyptic Love."

On Sunday, Slash and company rolled into Amsterdam for the first of two shows at the Heineken Music Hall.

The guys were joined by Halestorm singer Lzzy Hale for a run through the Guns N' Roses classic, "Out Ta Get Me." Watch the video here.



Boys Like Girls Go Behind The Scenes Of Their Crazy World
Boys Like Girls released a behind the scenes video showing footage of their time creating their upcoming record Crazy World.

The album was produced by the band's frontman Martin Johnson, whose recent credits also include Taylor Swift, Victoria Justice, Hot Chelle Rae, and more.

The band will be shooting a music video for the track "Be Your Everything" next week and the album is expected to be released this fall on Columbia Records. For now check out the behind the scenes footage

Today's Day In Rock News!

Slash To Receive Walk of Fame Star
Former Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash will be the recipient of the 2,473rd Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame next month. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce sent out these details and comments:
"Slash is widely considered one of the greatest rock guitarists of all time," said Ana Martinez, Producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremonies, "We are proud to place his name among the stars on our fabled Hollywood Walk of Fame."

Slash will be performing at a private acoustic performance and exclusive Q&A with Slash and Myles Kennedy at Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood Blvd. after the ceremony. Fans will have the opportunity to win tickets to the exclusive show by listening to KLOS 95.5 starting June 25. more on this story


Black Sabbath Reunion Helping Iommi's Cancer Fight
(Gibson) Tony Iommi, who has recently been undergoing chemotherapy, has said that playing with the reunited Black Sabbath helped him with his illness.

According to orange.co.uk, working helped him get through the ordeal. He told Kerrang! Magazine: "It was good for me to do that. I did feel tired and sick - and it does make you sick, you start throwing up. But on the days when I felt I could do it, we were all there working."

Black Sabbath were just honored at this year's Kerrang! Awards with the Inspiration Award. more on this story





Zakk Wylde, Lars Ulrich and Skid Row Walk Into A Bar...
(Classic Rock) Black Label Society mainman Zakk Wylde recalls a night in the early 1990s where even rock star status didn't excuse himself and members of Metallica and Skid Row from a bar queue.

It led to a celebrated story in which Lars Ulrich wound up handing cups of Wylde's urine to fans, thinking it was beer. But the guitarist is more surprised the event took place at all.

He recounts the memory in his new book Bringing Metal to the Children, and tells Guitar International: "It doesn't make any sense. I didn't want to lose my spot in line for drinks. I was putting them on the bar and I was going to throw them out when I was finished pissing – there was a garbage can a few feet away.

"The funny part was that it took place in 1990 or 1991. To have Lars Ulrich from Metallica, the guys from Skid Row and me all having to wait in a long line to get a beer in a packed club? We didn't get any special attention there. I'm just trying to picture that now – it would never happen." more on this story



The Who Selected For Olympics
(Classic Rock) After the London Olympics Committee asked Who manager Bill Curbishley whether Keith Moon was available to appear at their closing ceremony, the band have been confirmed as one of four acts representing British music at the event.

Describing Pete Townsend's outfit as "an inspired throwback to the swinging 60s" the committee said they'd be joined by Take That, George Michael and Emeli Sande at the show on August 12.

Read more rock news including Great White's Jack Russell, Steel Panther, Not so Sweet court battle, Stone Sour and more here.



Alice Cooper Goes Gaga At Music Fest
(Gibson) As if recording with Ke$ha on his recent Welcome 2 My Nightmare album wasn't a radical enough foray into the pop world, shock rock pioneer Alice Cooper performed an even more daring feat this weekend: a cover of Lady Gaga's "Born This Way."

Cooper performed the song during his set at the Bonnaroo Music And Arts Festival.Gaga wasn't there in person but she appeared in spirit: a gigantic 'Frankengaga' towered over Cooper's band on stage.

Fans shouldn't be too surprised though: Cooper had previously spoken of his admiration for Gaga: "She can sing, write and play piano — she's not just a costume queen ... you can be as outrageous as you want as long as you back it up with the music," Cooper said. more on this story





Stone Roses Play First Official Show Together in 16 Years
(Gibson) The reunited Stone Roses played their first official concert together in 16 years on Friday June 8 in Barcelona, Spain.

The 14-song set at the Razzamatazz began with "I Wanna Be Adored" from their self-titled debut, and included classic tunes such as "Fools Gold," "She Bangs The Drums" and "Made Of Stone," ending with a ten-minute version of "I Am The Resurrection."

The show in Barcelona was actually the band's second show since reforming, if you count the secret warm-up gig in their hometown of Manchester on May 23. At that show, fans who had been tipped off were asked to bring along a CD cover, record sleeve or Stone Roses t-shirt to prove they were a fan before they could be given a wristband. more on this story





Slipknot To Release Antennas to Hell and New Mobil App This Summer
Roadrunner have set a July 24th for the new Slipknot "best of" compilation which has been dubbed, Antennas to Hell. And the band is also releasing a mobile application this summer.

The label sent over these details: The two-disc version of Antennas to Hell includes a bonus live CD that captures the band's 2009 performance at the legendary Download Festival in the U.K.

The live disc showcases the band playing a set of career spanning classics in front of 80,000 rabid fans. The journey from - "(sic)" - track 1 on their self-titled debut - to "Snuff" - the haunting No. 1 rock track from 2008's All Hope Is Gone - proves that. The album features fan favorites, live classics and well-known radio hits. more on this story



Bruce Dickinson, Joe Bonamassa and Steve Morse On Jon Lord's New CD
(hennemusic) Former Deep Purple keyboardist Jon Lord has revealed plans to release his "Concerto for Group and Orchestra," re-recorded by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and a selection of invited guests.

Guests and soloists include Bruce Dickinson (Iron Maiden), Joe Bonamassa and Steve Morse, along with Jon's 'house singers' Steve Balsamo and Kasia Laska.

Scheduled for release in September, the album will be accompanied by a specially filmed documentary. more on this story


Ozzy Osbourne Movie To Air On Television
(hennemusic) "God Bless Ozzy Osbourne," the documentary about the life of the legendary heavy metal singer, will air on July 13 on the US cable network Showtime.

The film had a short run in US theatres last summer before being released on DVD last fall. Co-produced by Ozzy's son, Jack, the movie debuted last year at New York's Tribeca Film Festival.

The story is packed with never-before-seen Black Sabbath footage and recent solo tour clips. Fellow musicians Paul McCartney, Tommy Lee and others share stories, while an exclusive interview with the Osbourne family explains why bringing Ozzy's storied history to life — through the eyes of his son Jack — was the perfect motivation to capture the story of one of music's greatest icons on film. Check out a preview here.



Uproar Festival Dates Announced
Organizer have released the latest dates for this summer's Uproar Festival, which is set to kick off on August 17 in Kansas City, MO.

The main stage is set to feature sets from Shinedown, Godsmack, Staind, along with Adelitas Way.

P.O.D. will lead the second and third stage linesup which will feature Deuce, Fozzy, Redlight King, Mindset Evolution, In This Moment, Thousand Foot Krutch, Candlelight Red and a local Battle Of The Bands winner. more on this story



Smashing Pumpkins Streaming New Album Online
The Smashing Pumpkins are offering fans a free stream this week of their forthcoming album, Oceania, on iTunes.

The new album is set to be released next Tuesday. We were sent these details: Having his own label through EMI afforded Pumpkins leader Billy Corgan the opportunity to try something different. It is a launch scenario that goes against industry standards by allowing the album to be heard as it was meant to be. The group's release plan was in no way intended to slight radio stations, video channels, press or online outlets. Instead, it represents the artistic vision of a band who, says CORGAN, "was dead set on making an album where every song was just as valuable as any other, ignoring the typical claptrap you hear about needing a single. The only way to make the case that every song on Oceania is worth hearing is to put your heart into the sequence as a cohesive whole." Listen here.

Oceania was recorded at the group's studio in Chicago with Corgan's bandmates: guitarist Jeff Schroeder, drummer Mike Byrne and bassist/vocalist Nicole Fiorentino. The powerful 13-song collection (see track listing below) was produced by Corgan and Bjorn Thorsrud and mixed by David Bottrill (Muse, Tool, King Crimson, etc). more on this story



Rush Excited About New Album
(hennemusic) Rush release their 20th studio album, "Clockwork Angels," today. The band are in the midst of doing worldwide press for the new project and, on Monday night, bassist/vocalist Geddy Lee was featured on CBC Canada's national evening newscast, "The National."

Lee sat down with host Peter Mansbridge to talk about "Clockwork Angels," and was asked if he still feels pressure upon the release of new music to fans.

"It's nothing you can ever take for granted, really," explained Geddy. "To me, every time and album is finished and mixed, there's an incredible sense of pride, an incredible sense of relief because they always seem like impossible tasks, in one way or another. You want to know what people think of your work; you put a lot into it. We've always dedicated ourselves to working hard and hoping to improve every time out. And ya, the new one's coming out and we're excited to see if people like it." more on this story



Lita Ford Likens Her Marriage To Ike and Tina Turner's
(Classic Rock) Lita Ford has likened her marriage to ex-bandmate Jim Gillette to the tumultuous relationship between Ike and Tina Turner – and believes her new lease of life is a gift from God because she survived.

The guitarist is set for a tour with Def Leppard and Poison to promote new album Living Like a Runaway, and says her life is massively different from when she released 2009′s Wicked Wonderland, which she now describes as "more of a JIm album".

Now recovering after a messy divorce, Ford says working with Gillette was similar to the unbalanced and sometimes violent relationship the Turners lived through before their 1976 split.

She tells Sleaz Roxx: "It really was like Ike and Tina, completely. It was incredibly awkward for me. I believe in working with your spouse, in supporting your spouse in whatever they want to do." More from her here.



Blondie and Devo To Launch Whip It To Shreds tour
Blondie and Devo are teaming up for a North American co-headline tour dubbed the "Whip It To Shreds" tour.

The trek will be kicking off September 7th and hitting 13 select cities before wrapping September 26th.

"We can't wait to get out on the road with Devo. It's going to be an incredible show and we're excited to share it with our fans," says Debbie Harry. more on this story



Early Metallica and Megadeth Explored In New M&M Podcast
Bill Hale is the special guest for the latest episode of The Decibel Geek Podcast which focuses on the early days of both Metallica and Megadeth.

Hale was a photographer with Metal Rendezvous Magazine in San Francisco in the late 1970's and early 1980's and was witness to the formation and formative years of both legendary thrash bands.

Hale has published books on both bands including Metallica: Club Dayz: 1982-1984 and the recently-released Megadeth: Another Time, A Different Place. more on this story



Geoff Tate Plays Queensryche Show Solo
(Classic Rock) Queensryche singer Geoff Tate played the band's Scorpions support slot last night as a solo artist.

Ahead of Monday's concert in Valley City, Utah, the frontman announced "some of the members" of Queensryche weren't able to appear "due to personal reasons." He went on: "Although I would have really loved for all of us to play together, it wasn't possible for them.

"I couldn't miss playing for one of the best rock audiences in the world and opening for one of my all-time favourite bands for anything. I plan to rock Salt Lake City today." more on this story



Les Paul Auction Brings In Over $5 Million
(Gibson) Some of Les Paul's most famous guitars and musical equipment were auctioned by Julien's this past weekend.

A very rare 1982 prototype sold for a staggering $180,000, according to Reuters. Another historic item, a 1940s Epiphone Zephyr, a.k.a. "Klunker #3," sold for $144,000.

The sale raised in excess of $5 million for the Les Paul Foundation, an organization founded by the iconic guitarist and inventor to support music education, engineering and medical research. more on this story





Zappa Family Trust Plans To Release 60 Frank Zappa Recordings
The music of the legendary Frank Zappa is now back in the hands of the Zappa Family Trust and we received these details about the first new release:

The estate has signed a global license and distribution deal with Universal Music Enterprises to release 60 of the iconic composer's recordings. The roll-out kicks off July 31 with 12 recordings, with another dozen recordings to be released monthly through the end of 2012.

"The ink is not yet dry on The Zappa Family Trust's worldwide deal with Universal Music Enterprises," says Gail Zappa. "They made us the offer we couldn't refuse--for all the right reasons. It is a win-win for all of us, but mostly for Frank Zappa. Long may his baton wave. We are so ready to go." more on this story



Dream Theater Heading South
Dream Theater will follow the second leg of their North American tour with a tour of South America.

The South American run, in support of their latest album A Dramatic Turn Of Events, will launch in Guatemala City, Guatemala on August 8 and will include stops in El Salvador, Costa Rica, Columbia, Argentina, Chile and Brazil.

The tour will conclude September 1 at the Ulysses Guimaraes in Brasilia, Brazil, almost a full year after the band first went on the road in support of the new album. more on this story



Dr Feelgood's Wilko Johnson Set For Solo Tour
(Noble) Former Dr Feelgood guitarist Wilko Johnson plans to launch a fall tour of the UK with special guest Virgil and the Accelerators.

Johnson is promoting his autobiography, Looking Back At Me. Dr Feelgood is said to have influenced everyone from Joe Strummer and Mick Jones to Steve Albini.

After pioneering the Feelgood's distinctive mid 70s, pre-punk British R&B sound (which had a significant impact on the British punk rock music), Wilko went on to play guitar for Ian Dury and the Blockheads. more on this story



BoDeans Expand Tour As New Album Is Released
BoDeans have expanded their 40+ date North American tour with headlining stops in Nashville, Atlanta, Memphis, and Cleveland.

They play a special Fourth of July show at Milwaukee Summerfest before playing NYC's City Winery on August 9.

BoDeans are touring in support of their new studio album, 'American Made,' which was release this week. more on this story



Dropkick Murphys Add Halfway To St. Patrick's Day Tour Dates
Dropkick Murphys have added more dates for their "Halfway To St. Patrick's Day Tour," with U.S. shows from September 14 through 21.

The "Halfway To St. Patrick's Day Tour" will include stops in Buffalo, Chicago, Detroit, Pittsburgh and Utica, and culminates with a previously announced performance at Boston's Bank Of American Pavilion waterfront amphitheatre.

Dropkick Murphys are touring in support of Going Out In Style and Going Out In Style: Fenway Park Bonus Edition CDs, both released via the band-owned Born & Bred Records. more on this story



Icarus The Owl Releasing New Album This Month
Icarus The Owl have set a June 21st release date for their new album, Love Always, Leviathan.

The Stephan Hawkes produced full length will will contain twelve tracks of technical pop-punk.

Joey Rubenstein commented on the sound of the album by saying, "This album still has all the main attributes of Icarus The Owl. It is still very technical with odd time signatures, tap guitar, poly-rhythms among other aspects. Love Always, Leviathan is our most technical work to date, but also our poppyest. The songs differ vastly track to track, ranging from everything between quirky pop songs to heavier technical songs. The last two tracks are both over six and a half minutes long, which is definitely something new for us." more on this story



B Sides


Singled Out: Hats Off Gentlemen It's Adequate
Today Malcolm from Hats Off Gentlemen It's Adequate tells us about the deeply personal story behind their new single "Me Again". Here is the story:

Thanks very much for inviting me to write about about the process of making our new single, 'Me Again'. I greatly appreciate the interest in my music, and the opportunity to try to raise awareness of the disease that the song is about.

The Lyrics The inspiration for the song started with a phrase from a friend's Facebook post on an Ehlers-Danlos syndrome – "I just want to wake up one day and be me again".

I thought the phrase reflected the frustration of the condition very well, and also hinted at the exhaustion that often comes with the condition. My friend was very happy for me to use the phrase in a song.

The phrase is the basis of the chorus, and the rest followed from that. The verse is very simple lyrically – "So tired, I can't explain. So tired. So cold. Sucking me down." Initially there were more verses, but the song was getting too long at over 6 minutes, so I trimmed it back.

Many of us who have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome look healthy, but experience chronic pain and pain related exhaustion, which can lead to a lot of misunderstanding from those unfamiliar with this little-known disease.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a group of genetic diseases in which people have abnormally weak collagen. Collagen is an important structural protein providing strength to joints, cartilage, skin, intestines, and other parts of the body. Due to the weak collagen, things that many people would take for granted, including lifting, carrying, and travelling can be very difficult.

I have type III (hypermobility-type) Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (also known as joint hypermobility syndrome), and appreciate that I am fortunate to have a form of the illness that isn't life-threating, however chronic pain, joint degeneration/premature arthritis, and the exhaustion of managing with chronic pain can be challenging, and I'm very appreciative of all the support I get from my family.

Hypermobility-type Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is almost certainly underdiagnosed - it took about 20 years for me to get my diagnosis. People who are hypermobile ('double-jointed') and have unexplained chronic pain should ask their doctor whether they might have the condition. Although there aren't curative treatments, getting a diagnosis makes a big difference, as at least you understand why you hurt.

I've written several songs about type III Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, exploring different reactions to the challenges of invisible disability (While I Still Can - here and Wait For The Storm -here ). I hope to help raise awareness of invisible disabilities. I also hope that the songs can stand on their own even if you don't know what inspired them.

The Music 'Me Again' is just me multitracked. It's got piano, bass, chugging distorted rhythm guitar, acoustic guitar, and some twiddly lead guitar bits at the end. The guitar is a Strat, the acoustic, bass and keyboard Yamaha's. The electric guitar was recorded through a digitech RP250. I use Sonar X1 for recording. The vocals were recorded at Camden Recording Studios, London, UK. The rest was done on a laptop at home.

Listen to a free stream of 'Me Again' here and you can buy it on iTunes right here!



Tom Cruise Explains Def Leppard's Reaction To His Cover Of Their Song
(hennemusic) The new Tom Cruise film, Rock Of Ages, hits theaters this Friday. The Broadway play-turned-movie is billed as a love story told through the music of Bon Jovi, Journey, Poison, Twisted Sister and other artists from the 1980s.

Cruise plays Stacee Jaxx, the biggest rock star in the world; in the film, he sings renditions of Def Leppard's "Pour Some Sugar On Me" and Guns N' Roses' "Paradise City."

The actor promoted Rock of Ages during an appearance last Friday on The Tonight Show, with Cruise explaining that he found out the day before filming that members of Def Leppard would be stopping by to listen. "I'm just trying to honor you," Cruise told the band before singing their smash hit. "We played the whole song, and most of the crew was watching [Def Leppard] for their reaction. The band's lead singer [Joe Elliott] walks over and points at me, and I can't say what he said ... some sort of obscenity, and they had us perform it again for them. They were very generous." Watch the interview here.



Preview The Story Of Pink Floyd's Wish You Were Here
(hennemusic) Pink Floyd fans will get some insight into the band's history on June 26 when Eagle Rock Entertainment releases "The Story Of Wish You Were Here" on DVD and Blu-ray.

This is the authorized story of the album made with the full involvement and approval of the members of Pink Floyd.

The DVD and Blu-ray releases contain additional bonus material not featured in the TV broadcast version, including further interviews with Waters, Gilmour and Mason plus Roger and David performing excerpts from the album. Check out a preview here.



All Else Fails Proclaim That Kanye West Is Still A Giant D****
All Else Fails take aim at Kanye West with the first episode of their new web series.

The band previously released a web series called 'Studio Space' where the band chronicled their studio and tour adventures for fans.

The band is now rebooting a new series called 'Breaking Acclaim' that features AEF's satirical sense of humor along with their road side antics. To view episode 1 titled 'Kanye West Is Still A Giant D*****' you can go here.



Faulkner Got Judas Priest Gig In Unusual Place
(Classic Rock) Judas Priest new recruit Richie Faulkner has revealed he was offered the job of replacing KK Downing while the band were in Glenn Tipton's kitchen.

The guitarist was enjoying the atmosphere backstage at the tenth Download Festival in Donington Park this weekend. It's the same place Priest appeared in 1980 for the first-ever Monsters of Rock event as second-headline act under Rainbow. And unlike the modern three-day, 140-band extravaganza, that formative event lasted a single day and featured just seven acts.

Faulkner was invited to join the metal gods after Downing astonished fans by announcing he'd quit last year, ahead of their last-ever world tour. Priest will continue playing and are working on a new album, but don't plan on travelling round the world again in the future.

JUST CALL HIM JOE: AN INTERVIEW WITH JOE WALSH

JUST CALL HIM JOE: AN INTERVIEW WITH JOE WALSH


By Jeb Wright


On June 5th Joe Walsh will release his first solo album in two decades. Why the long wait? Well, Joe has been up to a lot over the last twenty years touring and recording with the Eagles, getting clean and sober, getting remarried and hanging with his brother-in-law Ringo Starr.

Now, he’s back and the album is pure Joe Walsh, 100%. From the funny “Analog Man” to the bouncy “Wrecking Ball” to the happy go lucky “Lucky That Way” Walsh still has it. His vocals still are whiney and his guitar playing still original. He, once again, shares his unique way of looking at life with us and we are better off for looking at this spinning blue ball of dirt through his eyes.

In the interview below Joe discusses the new album in detail, as well as opening up about how getting sober, and married, has changed his life. We also discuss a possible James Gang reunion, the Talk Box and why he joined the Eagles in the first place.

Jeb: Now, I know the Eagles do not release albums that often, but you have taken this to a whole new level. Analog Man is your first new release in twenty years. What took so long?

Joe: Two things happened, the first of which was that in 1994, the Eagles decided to get back to work and release Hell Freezes Over. We went around the world a couple of times with that. I just never got any momentum aimed at finishing these songs, or starting a solo record. In 1994, I also decided that it was time to get sober. I had to reinvent and start from scratch and learn to do everything sober – that took a lot of time. It opened up a whole life and a way of looking at things. I was able to get healthy again and I wanted to go check that out and see what it was all about.

Jeb: It is so different to play sober, let alone live sober. When you don’t have that crutch to fall back on, you feel almost naked out there.

Joe: Yeah, it’s scary. I used to think, “Oh God, everybody knows I’m scared and everybody is looking at me.” I can’t comprehend how I used to play like that. Being sober and doing it now takes all the concentration I’ve got.

Jeb: You are very outgoing and people just are drawn to you. I have a feeling that you are not aware of how liked you are by people.

Joe: I’m not really aware of it. I guess I can come on pretty strong at times. I am just happy and I want everybody around me to be happy too.

Jeb: When did you write the lyrics to “Analog Man”?

Joe: That is relativity new. The last album I made was on recording tape and there were knobs; now there is a mouse. Those of us who were analog guys had to make some adjustments with this new technology. There is a whole new world, now, that is digital. I’ve always written about the world around me, so I have a whole new world to write about. They are observations, not judgments.

To me, this virtual world doesn’t exist, it is computer generated. We are all spending a lot of time there. Our bodies are left sitting in chairs waiting for our minds to come back. You can get lost in that world. These guys that play these virtual games…to them, they are not games; they are into it. They come back out of the game two days later and they have beards and they don’t know what day it is. Holy smokes, that is scary to get lost in a place that doesn’t exist! There are people who are texting and they smash into the car in front of them because they didn’t look up. There are people who are trying to do things in both worlds and it doesn’t work too well. I don’t know if it is working for us, or if we are working for it.



Jeb: “Analog Man” is the first single but if you do a second one, make it “Lucky That Way.”
Joe: It was not at all intentional but it is sort of the sequel to “Life’s Been Good.” I wrote that with a guy named Tommy Lee James. He’s part of a think tank in Nashville. Barbara Orbison, Roy’s wife, recommended him to me. Tommy brought out the chorus. I was coming out to write with him, so I had to bring something, so I wrote the verses. There is a Nashville thread in there but the song came out really great.

Jeb: Tell me about the song “One Day at a Time.” This song, as with the rest of the album, seems to be a very personal statement that you’re making.

Joe: I just wanted a chance to tell my story. I just wanted to tell what it was like and what it is like now, and not embellish anything. It can be a real challenge for a songwriter to get to the essence of the topic without padding it with all of the recovery slogans that we say, but I think I did it on this song.

Jeb: How much did your wife, Marjorie, have to do with this album?

Joe: I’ve been married to Marjorie for three and a half years and she is the one who really kicked me in the pants and said, “I believe in you, whether you do or not, and I think you should finish this.” I looked at her and she said, “Oh, by the way, here’s Jeff Lynne’s number.” This is really Marjorie’s fault. I got this really big extended family when I married her and they are really close. It is a dynamic that I’ve never been around, as I was always just on the road by myself and past relationships just never really worked. I isolated myself back in the dark days. I have grown to be a part of this family and I’ve really opened up a lot and I think you can hear that in the music.

Jeb: Ringo Starr, your brother-in-law, plays on your album.

Joe: Yes, Ringo is my brother-in-law. He played on this one but, of course, I had to play on his album, so it was for free. Ringo plays on the song, “The Band Plays On.”

Jeb: You’ve been friends for years and now you’re in-laws, do you still ever go, “I’m playing with Ringo and he’s my brother-in-law!”

Joe: Sometimes, I just go in the other room and just yell that really loud. Any musician that is in that position goes, “Holy shit, I don’t believe it.” Thanksgiving and Christmas are really cool. Over time, he has become a great friend and he’s become like a big brother to me. His insight and his wisdom have helped me in both my life, and in my music. When I married my wife, I got him too.



Jeb: You’ve have had your ups and downs, so I have to ask, with Marjorie, why is it working this time?

Joe: I am 18 years old, sobriety-wise. I am really confident now. I have a whole bunch of experience and I’ve been a musician for a long time and I’ve written a lot of songs. I am now able to use all of my tools. I’m also healthy and happy. I have a lot to say, as it has been a long time since I’ve made an album. I will tell you that nothing on this album sounds like the album before. I don’t know? I just feel really confident and focused and like I finally know what I’m doing.

Jeb: We have known that for a long time but it is great to hear you say it.

Joe: Yeah, but I haven’t and now I do.

Jeb: You have a tip of the hat to “Funk 49” on the album called “Funk 50.” I have a complaint about that song.

Joe: What’s that?

Jeb: It’s too damn short.

Joe: Yeah, I know. ESPN asked me for some music for their Sunday NFL Countdown, where they analyze the upcoming games on Sunday. Chris Berman and the guys told me that they all liked the James Gang. They said that they loved “Funk 49” but that they didn’t want “Funk 49.” I put something together that was about a minute long for the ins and outs of the show. They used all of that music but nobody’s up at nine o’clock on a Sunday morning, so no one ever heard it. I thought it was a shame to just leave that under a minute long, so I decided to write some words for it and put it on the record. I guess, what you’re saying is that I didn’t write enough words. If I had written a couple of more versus then I think that would have been about right, don’t you think?

Jeb: I think so. I have heard there is a deluxe version being released of Analog Man with the James Gang on it.

Joe: The deluxe version has more content on it. There are two more songs. I was going through a box of old tapes that I found and I came across a jam that the James Gang did with Little Richard. We played a group of about six shows with Little Richard and Chuck Berry. We had a day off and we didn’t have anything to do, so we just went into the studio and rolled tape. This is the only track that survived. It is Little Richard at his best with the James Gang trying to keep up with him. It was about fifteen minutes long because he just wouldn’t stop. I got it down to about six or seven minutes, which was the essence of the jam. When I found it I said, “I’ve totally forgotten about this. I can’t just sit on it.” He is one of the Founding Fathers of Rock and Roll and he was at his best. I knew that people should hear this.

Jeb: Did you tell him that you had to edit it down.

Joe: I did. I told him that I only kept all of the brilliant parts. I asked his permission, of course, and he said, “Joseph, it makes me want to go out in the yard and yell, ‘Lordy, lordy.’”

Jeb: I have to ask you about the closing track on the album, titled “India.” It is unlike anything you’ve ever done.

Joe: I love house music, trance music and deejay remixes. I have a channel of it on the Satellite radio. I don’t know who these guys are but they are just having fun making this music. They are underground and not really mainstream, but every time I hear that kind of music I just want to get up and dance. These are the samples guys and the loop guys I’m talking about. I commend and respect what they’re doing.

The Eagles ended up on a tour in Australia and since we were half way there, we ended up going to India. It profoundly changed the way that I look at the big picture. The poverty and the opulence are beyond your wildest dreams, at how radical it is in both directions.

I was in Mumbai and I went to a club and I heard one of these techno groups perform. They didn’t play instruments, they played laptops. They all had Mac Books and that’s what they played. They had great lights and it was turned up all of the way and it knocked my socks off to hear it live. I came back home and I said, “I don’t know how, but I’m going to do one of those. I’m going to take a stab at making a track like that.” I got into my computer and got a bunch of samples and stuff and made that song. If I hadn’t gone to “India” and seen it live then I don’t think I would have wanted to do it; I would have just kept listening to it.

Jeb: There are rumors that there is going to be a new James Gang album and tour.

Joe: About three ago, I went to Cleveland and we went into the studio and messed around. I would definitely say that is on my Bucket List. I think instead of going out with them and playing big halls, we may go out and play some clubs, as that is when we really kick ass and that is when it is really an event. We are going to look at House of Blues and Hard Rocks and stuff and, as soon as I get a break with all of the silliness that I’ve been doing, I think I’ll grab those guys and go out and play some clubs and keep it low key. Instead of making a big announcement about everything I just want to go out and play, as that is when we are at our best.

Jeb: I would love a triple bill: The James Gang/Joe Walsh/The Eagles.

Joe: Oh boy, I don’t know if I would make it through that evening.

Jeb: Historically, Bob Heil and you invented the Talk Box. Would you agree?

Joe: I would say we reinvented it. I didn’t come up with the concept but I bumped into the guy who did. Do you remember Dottie West, the country singer? Her husband, Bill West, was a pedal steel player and when the James Gang would play Nashville, we’d always go over to their house after the show. He went out in the garage and he dug around and he gave me the original one that he built in 1954, I think. He said, “I’m not even going to tell you what this does. Just put this end in your mouth and play. You need this.” I had to figure out how it worked and then I started going to the hardware store and buying stuff and making them. I showed it to Bob Heil and he can manufacture stuff and he took it from there and started making new ones. That is the story of that; I reinvented it. I brought it out of retirement from the ‘50’s and, of course, the first time I used it was on “Rocky Mt. Way.”

Jeb: Why did you leave your career and join the Eagles? Once you joined them, what did you discover that was good and that was bad?

Joe: I left the James Gang to pursue a solo career. I had three albums that did pretty good. When you are achieving any amount of success in the music business, there is a lot of non-musical stuff that comes along with it. I had “Rocky Mt. Way” and later I had “Life’s Been Good” but I ended up the leader with all of the decisions that had to be made. I was doing all of the hiring and firing and I had more and more pressure to write something that would top what I had just written. I got a little bit stagnant in my writing because there was nobody to really write with. It all got going a little too fast and I always had to write something as I was up against a deadline. I wanted to become part of a band again.

I loved the Eagles and we all knew each other. I really loved the way they sang. I thought, “To have their voices and to be able to play rock and roll guitar along with that is what I would really like to do, rather than having to do it all myself.” As it happened, they wanted to rock and roll more than they had been. They didn’t want to corner themselves as a country rock band. Their guitar player, Bernie Leaden, was a real acoustic, flat picking purest. He wanted to play Martins on the front porch on the rocking chair and he was not going to turn it up. He was not interested in rocking out, so he left. In the meantime, I really wanted to join a band. It really all just happened at the same time.

The good part about it is that Hotel California came out of it and there were not too many bad parts, except that I got arrested a lot.

Jeb: Last one: Did you sell Jimmy Page the Les Paul that he wrote all of the classic songs with?

Joe: I pretty much gave it to him. When Led Zeppelin came to play in the United States for the first time, their album had just come out. Jimmy was most known for playing with the Yardbirds. Led Zeppelin was the new band that he was coming back with and everyone was really excited. The James Gang opened for them for about four or five shows on that first tour and I got to know Jimmy a lot better than I already had.

Jimmy was really looking for a Les Paul guitar. He had been playing Fenders, with a single coil, and it just wasn’t rocking enough for him. He needed a Les Paul for that band. They were not expensive, back then, but they were hard to find. I happened to have two and I gave him one. I sold it for like fifteen hundred bucks or something. I had to fly to New York to give it to him, so I had some expenses. That is the guitar that most of the Led Zeppelin stuff was done on. I just thought that he ought to have one and that I had two and only needed one.

Jeb: So, Led Zeppelin is all your fault.

Joe: Yeah, pretty much.

www.joewalsh.com

Today's Day In Rock News!

Tweeter Vs Black Sabbath
(Classic Rock) It's not easy being pioneers of heavy metal four decades after you first got together. Just ask Black Sabbath. In recent months their anticipated reunion with Ozzy Osbourne has been blotted with the breakdown of relations between the band and original drummer Bill Ward.
Amid all the drama guitarist Tony Iommi insisted: ""We've had our ups and downs over the years, feuds, this, that and the other. It all sorts out and the friendship never goes away, whatever's going on. This band is strange like that."

Bassist Geezer Butler wasn't the first to call it a "soap opera". But one Sabbath fan has taken it a step further with a Twitter account called "Sabbath Soap Opera" – and the username @Back_Stabbath. If you haven't been following the story you may not appreciate the cruel but observant humor in the spoof tweets here.


Judas Priest Plan Farewell Tour DVD
(hennemusic) Just a few weeks ago, Judas Priest played the final show of their "Epitaph" world tour.

The final Epitaph show - at the Hammersmith Apollo in London - was professionally filmed for a 2013 DVD release.

The work on the project has already begun, according to guitarist Richie Faulkner. "Had a sneaky listen to the recording of the Hammersmith show with [producer] Tom Allom. Rearrange these words: Face your off it's tear gonna," posted Faulkner on his Facebook page. more on this story



Festival Crowd Surfing Stunt Ends in Broken Neck
(Classic Rock) Stand-up comedian Bob Slayer broke his neck during his Comedy Tent performance at Download on Thursday night – and didn't even realise.

It wasn't until he went to hospital after being injured at another show he discovered the damage he'd done during a wheelie-bin crowdsurfing stunt at the Donington festival.

Ominously, Slayer had started his performance by saying: "This is the last gig I'll ever do" before an assistant helped push his bin into the crowd. more on this story



Fleetwood Shocked Over Bob Welch Suicide
(Gibson) Mick Fleetwood and Stevie Nicks have issued statements paying tribute to former Fleetwood Mac guitarist Bob Welch. "He was an amazing guitar player -- he was funny, sweet and he was smart," Nicks recalled. "I'm so very sorry for his family and for the family of Fleetwood Mac. So, so sad."

Welch was found dead at his home in Nashville, Tennessee, on Thursday. A police spokesperson said the 66-year-old musician died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A suicide note was found at the house.

"He was a very, very profoundly intelligent human being and always in good humor, which is why this is so unbelievably shocking," Fleetwood told Reuters. "He was a huge part of our history, which sometimes gets forgotten…. Mostly his legacy would be his songwriting abilities that he brought to Fleetwood Mac, which will survive all of us." more on this story





Metallica's Lars Ulrich Moved By New Documentary
(Gibson) Metallica's Lars Ulrich said he found watching the new movie about a disabled fan's mission to meet Metallica, 'deeply moving.'

According to the Daily Express, the movie, Mission to Lars, focuses on Tom Spicer, who has Fragile X syndrome, and his sister Kate as they attempt to meet the band and Tom's hero, Lars.

"I thought the film was deeply moving. Meeting Tom and Kate, when they came out to film, it was an experience in itself. But seeing the film and reconnecting with the team was another experience," Ulrich said. "It's not something we're directly involved in - it's their film, their journey. But we're supportive of their endeavor. We don't want to take it over and have it turn into some kind of vanity project.

"It's a great testament into a world I didn't know much about and a great testament to the importance of music and what it means to different people." more on this story





Collective Soul Live TV Special This Weekend
Collective Soul fans are advised to tune into HDNet this Saturday, June 16, to watch the band perform live to the Roseland Ballroom in Portland, Oregon.

"An Evening with Collective Soul: The Dosage 2012 Tour" will include their memorable 1999 album Dosage in its entirety, and several of their #1 radio hits including "Shine," "December," "World I Know," "Where the River Flows," and many others.

The band will also premiere new, never-heard-before songs from their forthcoming studio album, which they plan to release in the near future. Check out a preview here.



Slipknot's Corey Taylor Slams Media Over Metal Coverage
(Classic Rock) Slipknot and Stone Sour frontman Corey Taylor believes metal is the only genre in which musician keep trying to raise the bar and that's one of the things that makes it a unique art form.

His comments come during a Guardian discussion about why rock and metal is almost entirely ignored in mainstream media, despite a strong following and healthy sales.

Taylor argues that if the press are going to ignore the good points of the genre, they shouldn't keep digging up the bad points instead. He says: "The thing that really pisses me off is they only talk about metal in the sense: 'Metal is going to kill your children.' It would almost be better if they never talked about us at all." more on this story



Rock & Roll All Nite: A Tribute to KISS Coming
Versailles Records are eyeing a 2013 release for 'Rock & Roll All Nite: A Tribute to Kiss.'

The record will feature current/former members of Alice Cooper Band, Trans-Siberrian Orchestra, RATT, Keel, LA Guns, Megadeth, Metal Church, Dangerous Toys, Lillian Axe, White Lion, Slash's Snakepit, Richard Kendrick, and others to be announced.

This summer Versailles Records will also deliver star-studded tributes including 'No More Tears: A Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne- 1971 - 2012,' 'Take Your Whiskey Home: A Tribute to Van Halen- 1978 - 1984' and 'Two Minutes to Midnight: A Tribute to Iron Maiden.' more on this story



Le Butcherettes Hitting The Road With The Mars Volta
Le Butcherettes will be heading to Europe this week to kick off a tour where they will be The Mars Volta.

Le Butcherettes are currently at work on a followup to last year's breakout debut, Sin Sin Sin.

Omar Rodriguez Lopez -- who is also reprising his role as producer and bass player for the band's sophomore album -- will be pulling double duty for these shows, as the permanent bassist for Le Butcherettes in addition to his role as co-founder and guitarist in The Mars Volta. more on this story



Lucero Summer Tour
Lucero will be hitting the road for a North American tour which will kick off on June 20 in Carrboro, NC.

Lucero will be touring in support of their latest album, Women & Work on ATO Records Women & Work, the band's eighth album, is a love letter to their hometown of Memphis.

"Having a band in Memphis puts you through a tradition," says frontman Ben Nichols. The band immersed itself in Memphis' long skew of musical traditions: Sun, Stax, Elvis and Al Green, Jim Dickinson and Alex Chilton. more on this story



Nashville Pussy's First Ever Summer Rock n' Roll Showdown
Nashville Pussy will be playing a very special hometown show in Atlanta, Georgia on June 27th at The Star Bar.

The event which has been dubbed "Nashville Pussy's First Ever Summer Rock n' Roll Showdown", sees the return of bassist Karen Cuda who has been recovering from a neck injury. The show will feature support from The El Camino's and The Babyhaters.

Nashville Pussy recently released a live record recorded all over Europe in a special 2 CD re-release of their last studio album From Hell To Texas which was completely remixed for this edition. more on this story



Queensryche Members Debut New Band Rising West
(hennemusic) Queensryche members Michael Wilton, Eddie Jackson, Scott Rockenfield and Parker Lundgren debuted a new band Friday night in Seattle with vocalist Todd La Torre of Crimson Glory.

Rising West played their first show at the Hard Rock Café, where they performed rare and classic hits from the first five Queensryche albums; the set also included a cover of Iron Maiden's "Wrathchild."

Last week, the Rising West crew were denied access to Queensryche's social media platforms to promote their new project. Read more about that and watch video from the debut gig here.



Black Sabbath Rock Download Fest
(hennemusic) Black Sabbath headlined the closing night of the 10th annual Download Festival on Sunday.

It was Sabbath's second show of 2012 and, like last month's warm-up gig in their hometown of Birmingham, the band used fill-in drummer Tommy Clufetos in place of the absent Bill Ward, who continues to sit out the group's planned reunion due to a contractual dispute.

NME reports the metal pioneers came onstage at Donington Park on Sunday to a montage of vintage photos, opening the show with their eponymous track from their eponymous debut album. Guitarist Tony Iommi was in full force on a crucifix-adorned fretboard while frontman Ozzy Ozbourne played harmonica. More including video here.



Girl In A Coma Summer Tour
Girl In A Coma will be heading out on the road for a headlining summer North American tour.

The trek focused on the East Coast and Midwest will kick off in Madison, WI on June 16th and will wrap up on August 16th in Pharr, TX

Girl In A Coma is hitting the road in support of their latest album Exits & All the Rest. more on this story



Former Angel Dust Singer Dirk Thurisch Returns With Mercury Tide
Former Angel Dust singer Dirk Thurisch returns after almost a decade with his new band Mercury Tide.

Limited Access Records have announced a July 10th North American release date for the group's debut album, Killing Saw.

The band's website is listing a May 25th released date for the new album in Europe. You can learn more about them and trade a "tweet" for a song here.



Red Fang Deliver Pizza Picture Disc
Red Fang have delivered a limited edition Pizza Picture disc of their album Murder the Mountains.

The A Side of the disc features The "Red Fang" Pizza, which is actually available on the menu at Relapse Records owner Matt Jacobson's restaurant Sizzle Pie, which has two locations in Portland, Oregon.

The B-Side of the disc features Red Fang's drink of choice PBR, pizza crusts and bloody band-aids. more on this story



PiL Changed Steve Vai?
(Gibson) John Lydon says guitarist Steve Vai's work on Album, the full-length disc PiL released in 1986, may well have marked a shift in Vai's approach to playing. "I think he kind of altered his perspective after working with us," Lydon said, speaking to MusicRadar. "He did some wonderful stuff after that. He got out of just heavy metal, and that's a good, good thing. To this day, I rate the man very, very highly. Very highly!"

Lydon said he was already familiar with Vai's work before recruiting him for the project. "People think that I wouldn't be listening to stuff like that, but I listen to everything," he said. "It was great. It was [producer-bassist] Bill Laswell who put us together."

Lydon said he was seeking more than musicianship, at the time he approached Vai. "I have a keen ear for sheer bravery and audacity, and people who are prepared to stretch the boundaries of what most musicians call 'common sense,'" he said. more on this story





Ian Gillan and Bernie Torme Giving Business Seminar
(Gibson) Former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Bernie Torme and Deep Purple's Ian Gillan will be teaching at a business seminar in Dartford, England on June 19.

The event, at the Hilton Hotel in Dartford on 19 June, says The Independent, is being put on by ex-manager the Peter Cook, a former manager who lectures on the parallels between music and business for corporate executives.

Cook said: "What we're teaching them is about balancing the need for order and structure with a little bit of creative spark which gives them the edge over their competitors."

Tormé said: "I have worked with a fair mix of Class A rock stars. The music business is a great teacher of life skills such as negotiating, marketing, teamwork, high performance and so on, both how to do them well and occasionally the dark side of the force. Big companies are far more complex, although it's not as different as you would think." more on this story





Download Got Off To Rainy Late Start
(Classic Rock) The tenth Download Festival was forced to start two hours late Friday amid worsening weather conditions that caused traffic chaos and forced organisers to cut bands from the bill.

Headliners The Prodigy closed out the iconic event's first day following performances by Machine Head, Slash, Nightwish, Little Angels, Terrorvision and many others.

But Europe, Cancer Bats, Rise to Remain and Six Hour Sundown were amongst those to miss their sets – although Cancer Bats managed to make two appearances later in the day. more on this story



Black Tusk Map Out Headline Tour Dates
Black Tusk will follow up their current North American tour with Municipal Waste and 3 Inches of Blood with their first ever European headlining tour.

Support on the tour will come from Okkultokrati. The tour is scheduled to begin July 8th in Köln, Germany and run through July 20th in Tonsberg, Norway with an appearance at Slottsfjell Fest.

Black Tusk will also be taking part in the "Orion Music & More Festival" curated by Metallica. The event is set for Saturday June 23rd and Sunday June 24th at Bader Field in Atlantic City, NJ. Black Tusk will be featured on the "Damage Inc" stage on Saturday June 23rd alongside label mates RED FANG and many others. more on this story



Natur Hit The Road With Occvlta
Natur kicked off a mini East Coast tour yesterday, ahead of the release of their debut album, Head Of Death.

Natur hit the road with Occvlta for the run of dates, which begins in Baltimore, Maryland at the Talking Head Lounge.

Natur drummer Tooth comments: "Finally! Our German brothers in Occvlta will be coming to our side of the planet! Very excited to hit the road and play some new places. This will be a great week for sure! After seeing them kill London two years in a row at the Live Evil Festival it was certain we had to host them in the States. Can't wait to bang skulls side by side again! Heavy metal is our way!" more on this story



Titans Eve Announce Tour With Anvil
Titans Eve have a set July 13th release date for their second full-length album, 'Life Apocalypse'.

In support of the effort, the band plan a Western Canadian tour with legendary Canadian metal band Anvil.

"Our album 'Life Apocalypse' drops on July Friday the 13th, just in time for our tour with Anvil!!! We are all very excited to start playing for you guys again and to be able to join Canadian metal legends this time!." says vocalist/guitarist Brian Gamblin. more on this story



Auroch Plan Summer Album Release and Tour
Auroch have officially named their debut full length album, 'From Forgotten Worlds,' which will be released in July.

"At long last we're excited to reveal the name of this first full length release and the songs that lie therein. This has represented a lot of work, sweat and blood and it is reflected in the music. Prepare for a total death metal onslaught!" comments Auroch vocalist/guitarist Seb Montesi.

Auroch are gearing up for their 'Canadian Abomination Tour' which will kick off on July 13th. more on this story



B Sides


Dee Snider Jams Skid Row Classic With Sebastian Bach
(hennemusic) Sebastian Bach played the Sweden Rock Festival Thursday night, and had a little help along the way.

Sebastian was joined by Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider for the Skid Row cut, "Youth Gone Wild."

Bach is currently on the road promoting his latest effort, "Kicking & Screaming." Watch the Dee/Bach jam



The Hives Deliver Go Right Ahead Video
The Hives have released their official music video for their single "Go Right Ahead" online.

According to the announcement, the concept is: Howlin' Pelle Almqvist & the gang take charge of a Gotham-esque city with their very own Hives blimp. There's chaos & confusion, plenty of top hats, and possibly even some space exploration.

"Go Right Ahead" comes off the band's new album, Lex Hives, which was released last week. Watch the video here.



Van Halen Light Up The Sky In St. Paul
(hennemusic) Van Halen have been mixing up the setlists on their current "A Different Kind Of Truth" tour, giving fans a chance to hear some classic deep cuts that haven't been played live in many years.

Video shot during a recent soundcheck in St. Paul, Minnesota captured the band playing the 1979 track, "Light Up The Sky," with background vocals by Wolfgang.

The video was shot by a fan who was in the venue early as part of a VIP package; occasionally, VIP ticket holders have been able to sit in on soundcheck during the tour. Watch the video here.



Duane Allman Taught Joe Walsh Slide Guitar
(Gibson) Joe Walsh has revealed it was Duane Allman who showed him the basics of slide guitar.

In an interview to be published by M – Music & Musicians, Walsh said, "The James Gang played lots of shows with the Allman Brothers Band, back when it was common to have two headliners on the bill. At some point I sat down with Duane backstage, and he showed me the basics – things like proper tunings to use, based on what you're trying to accomplish. He showed me how you put the slide directly over the fret, instead of between them, like you do when you're normally playing. And he stressed using a very light touch. Duane taught me these things out of the goodness of his heart. I've always tried to keep his tradition going, because he was such a good guy and such a great player."

Analog Man, Walsh's first solo album in 20 years, was released on Tuesday (June 5). more on this story





Terror Post Documentary Online
Terror posted their full, uncut version of their documentary about front-man Scott Vogel and Terror on YouTube.

Originally posted as a series, fans can now view the entire movie from start to finish. Focusing on Vogel's early bands, plus the history of Terror from the band's formation through the making of their latest album, Keepers Of The Faith. Watch it here.

Terror will be on tour in North America, Australia, New Zealand and Europe this summer, appearing at various festivals as well as hitting the road with BANE, NAYSAYER, and ROTTING OUT in July/August.

MATCHBOX TWENTY HEADING NORTH IN SEPTEMBER:

Matchbox Twenty will release their brand new single She's So Mean next week - June 12. Their new studio album North is due out September 4. These guys are one of the most consistent bands of the modern era and nay new material is highly anticipated. Check out a 'in the studio' preview of the new single via: www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=IMM-GGstvYQ.
The track listing for North is: 1. Parade 2. She's So Mean 3. Overjoyed 4. Put Your Hands Up 5. Our Song 6. I Will 7. English Town 8. How Long 9. Radio 10. The Way 11. Like Sugar 12. Sleeping at the Wheel.
WebLink: matchboxtwenty.com.

Today's Day In Rock!

Former Fleetwood Mac Frontman Dead From Apparent Suicide
(Classic Rock) Former Fleetwood Mac guitarist and vocalist Bob Welch has been found dead after shooting himself at his Nashville home. He was 66.
Welch, who was with the band from 1971 until 1974, was discovered by his wife with a suicide note left nearby. He'd pulled the trigger around 12.15pm.

Law enforcement officials say the musician had been experience health issues in recent months. Don Aaron of Metropolitan Nashville Police Department reported last night: "Officers discovered Mr Welch with a single gunshot wound to the chest. There was a suicide note found at the residence. There was no evidence of foul play." more on this story



Muse Tease New Album
(Gibson) This week Muse posted a trailer online for their upcoming sixth studio album and announced the title: The 2nd Law.

The clip is classic Muse fare in its drama, offering a faux news broadcast that depicts scenes of stock market crashes, rising gas prices and other calamities. New for Muse, the video also offers some dubstep-seasoned music blended in with footage of the group rocking out live. Watch it here.

Muse's last album, 2009's Resistance, debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart, selling 128,000 copies, according to Neilson Soundscan. more on this story





Van Halen Go Bottoms Up For The First Time Since 1983
(hennemusic) Van Halen's "A Different Kind Of Truth" tour is in the middle of a swing through the band's home state of California.

Tuesday night, Van Halen rocked the HP Pavilion in San Jose, and the band dug out a rare track from 1979's "Van Halen II" album.

"Bottoms Up!" made its first appearance of the new tour and, in fact, it was played for the first time onstage since 1983. The classic deep cut replaced "The Trouble With Never," from the new album, in Tuesday's setlist. Watch it here.



Guns N' Roses Frontman Axl Rose Comments On Jewelry Theft
(hennemusic) Guns N' Roses frontman Axl Rose has thanked the woman who walked off with $200,000 worth of his jewelry for their safe return.

"Got my things back (really just an excited fan.) Thank you to the person for returning them n' big thanks 2 the Paris police," Axl tweeted.

Rose's jewelry - three gold-and-diamond necklaces – went missing following a concert in Paris. The woman was placed under formal arrest after she returned the items to a police station in central Paris. more on this story



Def Leppard Club Gig Streaming Online
(hennemusic) On Wednesday, Def Leppard played a rare club show at the House Of Blues on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood.

The event was captured for a "YouTube Presents" special, featuring a live performance and a Q&A session hosted by Rockline's Bob Coburn.

The band invited fans to submit question in advance, which they handled in an extensive interview segment. Watch it here.



Ozzy, Metallica's Hetfield, U2's Bono, Gene Simmons, Dave Grohl Big Daddy's
(Gibson) Father's Day is this weekend, so it's an appropriate time to pay homage to all the great dads out there.

On the Line, a national prostate cancer awareness campaign, is celebrating fatherhood with the Big Daddy Awards, which has celebrity fathers contending for top honors in 33 creative categories. A few of the musical men nominated this year include Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl, U2's Bono, Aerosmith's Steven Tyler, Kiss' Gene Simmons, Ozzy Osbourne, Lenny Kravitz, Metallica's James Hetfield and Jon Bon Jovi. Other categories pay tribute to dads from the sports, movie, TV and radio fields.

Fans can vote for their favorite celebrity fathers through June 17 via BigDaddyAwards.com, and the winners will be announced June 18, the day after Father's Day. more on this story




Queensryche Members Vow To Go On
(Classic Rock) Queensryche splinter group Rising West disappointed fans last night by refusing to go into detail about their current relationship with singer Geoff Tate.

Last week Michael Wilton, Eddie Jackson, Scott Rockenfield and Parker Lundgren announced they'd hired frontman Todd La Torre of Crimson Glory and would perform material from the prog metal giant's early years at two show in Seattle this weekend.

Speaking to 99.9 KISW they avoided in-depth discussion about rumoured fall-outs with Tate, and didn't even elaborate on their statement they'd been banned from Queensryche's website and Facebook page. Guitarist Wilton said: "We still very much are Queensryche, and Queensryche will be continuing on. We want to just have some fun, play some old 'Ryche, bring back some memories and just kick it."

Asked if he'd learned anything from their current position he replied: "Make a band agreement." They go into more details, read that here.



Elvis To Be Resurrected
(Gibson) Elvis Presley will soon be immortalized with his very own hologram. Digital Domain Media Group, the same company that recently created a hologram of late rapper Tupac Shakur that debuted at last spring's Coachella festival, has teamed up with the company that owns the rights to Presley's likeness and is working to produce a holographic Elvis for use in a variety of Elvis-related projects.

"His lifelong fans will be thrilled all over again, and new audiences will discover the electric experience of Elvis the performer," Elvis Presley Enterprises president Jack Soden said in an official statement.

"We are thrilled to have been chosen to bring new performances and original shows where fans can have their own, new experiences of Elvis," Digital Domain Media Group chairman and CEO John Textor added. "This agreement enables us to participate in the success of any number of potential virtual Elvis appearances." more on this story





New Found Glory's Chad Gilbert Releasing New What's Eating Gilbert EP
New Found Glory's Chad Gilbert side project What's Eating Gilbert will be releasing a new five-song EP CD and 7inch, entitled Cheap Shots, on July 31st.

Gilbert commented, "I'm excited for people to hear my songs on this EP. As my solo song writing develops, it's showing more and more my goal: to create modern 50's pop rock throwback… a style of music I heard around my house being played by my parents when I was a baby." This is one of many collaborations with Chad Gilbert and the label on various platforms, between his bands New Found Glory, International Superheroes of Hardcore, and What's Eating Gilbert. Chad continued, "So happy for another release with Bridge Nine - a label I admire that works hard and has the same roots in hardcore and punk rock as I do."

What's Eating Gilbert has released albums and EP's on labels like Epitaph, Paper and Plastick, and Bridge Nine Records. Cheap Shots, Chad's fifth solo release, was recorded earlier this year at Buzzbomb Studios and produced by Chad Gilbert and Paul Miner. more on this story



Steve Vai Plans North American Tour
Steve Vai will be hitting the road in August for a two month long North American Tour.

Vai will be touring in support of the upcoming release The Story of Light, a new solo album of original material, to be released on August 14th.

The tour kicks off the next day, August 15, at Ft. Lauderdale, Florida's Revolution, and ends October 13 in Agoura Hills, CA. more on this story



Beatles Museum Shutting Down
(Gibson) NME is reporting that the Beatles museum in Hamburg, Germany, will shut down at the end of June due to a "lack of interest."

The famed museum opened its doors on the Reeperbahn strip in Hamburg in 2009 -- right near the Cavern Club, where the guys played many of their early shows -- and offers over 1,000 pieces of Beatles memorabilia. Even with everything a Beatle fan could ever imagine inside its doors, the museum has attracted an estimated 150,000 visitors over the past three years, far fewer attendees than expected by museum operators.

Speaking with German newspaper Hamburger Morgenpost, museum manager Folkert Koopmanns explained that he believes closing the museum is the responsible thing to do. "In view of the high deficits, there is no solution left but closure, if you want to act responsibly. A privately run museum as big as Beatlemania is condemned to fail without public support. That's a fact that we fought against until enthusiasm turned into resignation – a bitter experience." more on this story





Linkin Park To Broadcast Upcoming Concert on MTV Channels Globally
MTV sent over word that Linkin Park will visit Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico for the first time ever to perform live at MTV World Stage Monterrey.

This international music event will be taped entirely in high definition at Arena Monterrey in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico on September 12th and will be broadcast throughout the region on October 8th by MTV Latin America. The event will also be seen on more than 63 MTVs around the world, exact dates to be confirmed.

"It's been so long since the last time we performed in Mexico. We cannot wait to celebrate the launch of our new album with our fabulous Mexican fans," commented Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park. more on this story



Capt. Beefheart's Lost Broadcasts Coming To DVD
Rare TV performances by Capt. Beefheart and his Magic Band 'The Lost Broadcasts' is set to be released on DVD on June 18th. Glass Onyon sent over these details:

Don Van Vliet, (1941-2010) better known to his legions of fans as 'Captain Beefheart' was one of the most enigmatic figures in rock music. Unashamedly an artist, rather than a pop star, he forged his own idiosyncratic furrow through popular culture, producing some of the most innovative and uncompromising music ever committed to recording tape. From the age of three he painted and sculpted, and had an obsession with animals and the natural world. As a teenager he was friends with Frank Zappa, and as early as 1963 they recorded a demo under the name 'The Soots'. Sadly this was unsuccessful, and the world would have to wait a few more years before Beefheart's own unique take on the blues would be heard by anyone outside his own particular circle of friends. His first album, 'Safe as Milk' came out in 1967, and Hunter Davies' eponymous biography of The Beatles notes that John Lennon was an early fan. It is not surprising considering that the primal rock and roll that Lennon idolized and the pioneering surreal blues of Captain Beefheart and the Magic Band, had much the same cultural genesis. Probably the most important album of the Captain's career was the Zappa produced 'Trout Mask Replica' which was released in 1969. Its mixture of blues, free-form improvisation and heavily structured Van Vliet avant-garde compositions proved too much for many listeners but eventually ensured him a place in the history books. High profile fans of this album include the late John Peel, who would remain a champion of Beefheart's until he died.

In 1972 Captain Beefheart released two albums; 'The Spotlight Kid' and 'Clear Spot'. He also toured the UK and Europe with the Magic Band, even performing two concerts at London's famed Royal Albert Hall. On April 12th , in the middle of the European leg of the tour, Captain Beefheart and The Magic Band stopped off at the Beat Club studios in Bremen, Germany to film a session for later transmission. Of the four songs filmed that day only one track has ever been broadcast. The band at that time included: Captain Beefheart (Don Van Vliet) vocals, harp; Rockette Morton (Mark Boston) guitar and bass; Zoot Horn Rollo (Bill Harkleroad) guitar; Orejon (Roy Estrada) bass; Ed Marimba (Art Tripp) drums; and Winged Eel Fingerling (Elliot Ingber) guitar. Author Jon Kirkman describes the recordings: "The session kicks off with a bass solo entitled 'Mascara Snake'. This short piece was named after a former member of the Magic Band Victor Hayden (Don's cousin), who had appeared on the 'Trout Mask Replica' album. The solo is played by Mark Boston, although at this point former Mothers of Invention bassist Roy Estrada had joined The Magic Band following his departure from Little Feat in early 1972. The other songs in the set here include a track dating back to 'Trout Mask Replica' ('Steal Softly Thru Snow') and also a track that would be featured on 'Clear Spot' some eight months later ('Golden Birdies'). more on this story



Grave Set For New Album and Tour
Century Media will release Grave's tenth studio album Endless Procession Of Souls on August 27th in Europe and on August 28th in North America.

Recorded at Studio Soulless, Endless Procession Of Souls, featuring nine tracks of death metal, executed by the survivors of the legendary Swedish Dödsmetal scene.

In support of this upcoming release, the band will be touring North America with Morbid Angel and Dark Funeral this September/October. In regards to the album and tour, founding member Ola Lindgren (vocals/guitar) comments: "Grave will return to North America in September, sharing the madness with our comrades in Morbid Angel and Dark Funeral. After the successful 'Into the Grave' sets we did in September last year, it will be very exciting to come back to promote the new album 'Endless Procession of Souls', which will be released August 28th in North America (Aug 27th in Europe) through Century Media Records. This killer bill is in extremo deluxe and will show you what brutality is all about...Beware the Winds of Chains!" more on this story



The Dear Hunter Premiere Never Forgive, Never Forget Video
The Dear Hunter have premiered a new music video for the song "Never Forgive, Never Forget," which comes off of the Color Spectrum - Black EP collection.

The fan-made video was brought to the attention of frontman Casey Crescenzo via Twitter: "I received a twitter alert to my phone mentioning @therealtdh and a new 'official' video from the band. Before this we had decided to throw in the towel on making a video, so this news was a bit confusing. I followed the links and watched in disbelief as the video played... About 10 seconds in, I called out to the rest of my band, who was still in the other room rehearsing, and asked them to come in the control room and watch the video with me. About 5 minutes later we were all sitting with our jaws on the floor.

"I immediately reached out to the production company, and professed my love and admiration for what they created. Now I am excited to share with everyone what these incredibly talented people crafted." more on this story



Dropkick Murphys Announce Initial Halfway To St. Patrick's Day Tour Date
Dropkick Murphys have announced the initial date for their upcoming their "Halfway To St. Patrick's Day Tour."

The band will be playing Boston's Bank Of American Pavilion waterfront amphitheatre on September 21 as part of the tour. Additional September tour dates will be announced soon.

They are touring in support of their Going Out In Style and Going Out In Style: Fenway Park Bonus Edition CDs, both released via the band-owned Born & Bred Records. more on this story



Danko Jones Set DVD Release
Danko Jones have set a July 3rd U.S. release date for their very first official DVD, entitled Bring On The Mountain. We were sent these details:

The two-disc DVD features a comprehensive 90 minute documentary spanning the band's incredible career, including a slew of exclusive live clips from some of their most memorable performances from around the world. In order to give their fans the best viewing experience possible, the band has blended the greatest clips and moments captured on video throughout their career—forming the outstanding DVD that rabid Danko Jones fans have been clamoring for. Shot by the Diamond Bros., the documentary offers a unique insight into the ups and downs of one of the hardest working bands around today.

An extra special treat for fans comes in the format of a short film titled The Ballad of Danko Jones. Based on Danko Jones' most recent video trilogy, the film features actors Elijah Wood, Selma Blair, Ralph Macchio, Jena Malone, musicians Lemmy (Motorhead), Mike Watt (Minutemen, fIREHOSE), and many other familiar faces. All 19 music videos the band has ever made, including videos that have not been available in over 10 years, are also included. more on this story



B Sides


New Rush Clockwork Angels Songs Streaming Online
(hennemusic) The new Rush album, "Clockwork Angels," is being released next Tuesday. Now, tracks from the new album are surfacing online.

The thematic project has been billed as following the story of a young man's quest across a lavish and colorful world of steampunk and alchemy as he attempts to follow his dreams. The tale features lost cities, pirates, anarchists, an exotic carnival, and a rigid Watchmaker who imposes precision on every aspect of daily life.

Listen to the full-length preview of the album's title track, which clocks in at seven and half minutes and other new tracks from the album here.



The Whigs Give Fans A Listen To New Song
The Whigs are giving fans a first taste from their new album "Enjoy The Company," which comes out September 18th on New West Records.

The album was written in Nashville, TN and Athens, GA, and recorded in Woodstock, NY with producer John Agnello (Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr.).

Drummer Julian Dorio says "we looked back at our first three albums and saw what we liked and didn't. We thought about the songwriting, playing, production - taking the best elements to make a record - a bunch of songs, that we're really proud of."

See what he's talking about on new song "Summer Heat" here.



Metallica's Lars Ulrich Compares Arctic Monkeys to Rush
(Gibson) Lars Ulrich is an Arctic Monkeys fan. According to NME.com the Metallica drummer wanted the U.K. indie band at his band's Orion Festival in New Jersey.

Ulrich told Rolling Stone: "For me, having the Arctic Monkeys on there is big. I think they're a heavy metal band disguised as an indie band…. there's almost a Rush element in there.''

The Orion Music festival is set for June 23 and 24 near Atlantic City in New Jersey. more on this story





Wolves At The Gate Streaming New Song Online
Wolves At The Gate are giving fans a first listen to their new song "Dead Man," which comes from their forthcoming album, Captors, which is set for release on July 3rd.

"We chose 'Dead Man' as our first single because of how well it encompasses the entity of our band," explains guitarist/vocalist Stephen Cobucci. "As a song it has sort of a youthful energy about it that we really enjoy playing and a really solid melody that we feel will draw in new fans and appease long time fans."

"Writing this song quite easily took longer than anything else on the album. I heard in my head how I wanted the song to sound, but it took about a month's worth of work to get everything to the point where it flowed musically and lyrically. I record all of our preproduction on my computer and there's a folder I like to call the 'riff graveyard' which contains all the riffs I wrote for the record that never made it... 'Dead Man' easily had the largest riff graveyard of any song on the record." Listen here.



Singled Out: Spider Rockets
Today Helena Cos from Spider Rockets tells us about the songs "Going Down" and "Gasoline" from their brand new album "Bitten". Here is the story:

Our song "Going Down" was first called "Bitch Slapped" and I remember sitting with Eric Rachel, our producer and showing him the idea for the song. He just looked at me and said, "you may want to change the title of that one." I thought that was funny as hell, but it got me thinking. The song is about power but I didn't want it to be predictable. I toyed with having a double meaning take place in the lyrics and liked the way it was coming out. The double meaning brings out two polar opposite emotions. As it turns out "Going Down" became our active rock single.

Our other single in the metal market, "Gasoline," had a working title called "Razor Blade Kisses." I am not sure even why except I liked the way it sounded. The song is about what makes someone tick, what gives them fuel. It comes out in a personal struggle in the song. The emotion behind the song is like gasoline to a car. We tried working the chorus in a few different ways to make the song come to life. Finally, our producer, Eric Rachel suggested dueling male/female vocals. That made all the difference and the tension in the verses explodes into the vocals in the chorus.