Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Van Halen's David Lee Roth Insured His Private Part
(Radio.com) In an interview earlier this week, Van Halen frontman David Lee Roth surprised no one by revealing that he'd had his private part insured by Lloyd's of London.
Addressing a rumor that he had his entire body insured, he pointed out that he had, in fact, only insured "Little Elvis." He mentioned that this was a case of, "Get out of the way of a good rumor."

He said that before the band went on an early tour, "We had to insure [guitarist] Edward's fingers, since he will be using those a lot on the road, and [drummer] Alex Van Halen's elbows. So I said, 'What about Little Elvis? We're going to be using him a lot." more on this story



Leaked Lollapalooza Poster Lists Nine Inch Nails, The Cure As Headliners
(Radio.com) Are Nine Inch Nails and The Cure going to be at Lollapalooza? A leaked photo of this year's poster says they will be.

According to The Chicago Tribune, "multiple industry sources" confirmed that the picture, which hit the web late Wed and early Thurs (March 27-28) via various music-related Twitter accounts and blogs like Slicing Up Eyeballs, is the official lineup of the festival.

The lineup listed on the poster for the three-day Chicago festival, taking place from August 2-4, lists The Cure and Nine Inch Nails as two of the headliners.

Nine Inch Nails have already announced six tour dates and on the band's site they note that "more dates are coming soon." With no shows scheduled during Lolla, it wouldn't be that surprising if they made an appearance at the festival. more on this story



KISS and Hello Kitty Team Up For TV Series
(hennemusic) The KISS branding machine continues to work in overdrive as news surfaces that the band are teaming up with Hello Kitty for a new TV series.

The program has a working title of "Kiss Hello Kitty" and is now in development for The Hub, and KISS bassist Gene Simmons will be one of the executive producers, reports USA Today.

The show will feature "four Kiss x Hello Kitty characters living their rock 'n' roll dreams and bringing pink anarchy to every situation they are in."

"Knowing and viewing The Hub as I do daily with my three children, it is the perfect home for us to bring the Kiss Hello Kitty juggernaut to yet another generation," says frontman Paul Stanley. more on this story




Fall Out Boy Plan Save Rock and Roll Tour
(Radio.com) Some bands announce a new tour with a basic, to-the-point press release that lays out the dates to be played and nothing more. Fall Out Boy does things a little differently.

In a video released yesterday (March 28), a myriad of snippets from other videos are used to announce the tour. Included: Gene Simmons of Kiss, Bill Clinton, Peter Griffin of Family Guy, John F. Kennedy, The Joker (Heath Ledger's version), Conan O'Brien and many more.

"We are proud to announce the Save Rock and Roll Tour, coming this September to a city near you," the spliced-together clips spell out. "Tickets on sale April 5 and 6."

The video notes that the September tour will be the "last chance" to see Fall Out Boy in 2013. The band is already in the middle of a spring and summer tour that includes dates in North America, Europe and Asia, and will remain in the United States through June 30 before leaving the country and coming back for the first date, in Uncasville, Conn. on Sept. 5. Watch the video here.




LL Cool J Discusses Eddie Van Halen Collaboration
(Radio.com) LL Cool J unexpectedly posted a photo to his Facebook page that showed him sitting in the control room of a studio… next to Eddie Van Halen. Van Halen hasn't guested on too many albums in recent years, so this came as something of a shock.

Radio.com sat down LL, who talked about working with the guitar legend, who is one of many guests on his upcoming album, Authentic:

"Working with Eddie was just amazing," he said. "I just really wanted to work with the best, work with people that I respect, people that I look up to, people that impress me, people that I believe are truly super talented… and even more talented than myself. I feel like Eddie falls in that category. Now Eddie Van Halen has officially done a hip-hop record. And I have officially worked with one of the greatest guitarists that ever lived."

The song is called "We're The Greatest," but the famously un-humble MC was quick to point out that the lyrics may not (necessarily) be self-referential.

"It's speaking about all of us," he told Radio.com. "It's not necessarily about me and Eddie per se. It's about people that kinda get tossed aside, forgotten about, kicked down, and then they make a comeback in life and they regain that ground that they had lost, and then some. So that's why it opens up like (he raps the lyrics):

'Knock knock, who's there, the one, remember me? / I'm looking kinda different these days/ Don't you agree?/ You're boy's doing it big this year. Didn't you see?/ The hell with the Devil, there's no sympathy…' Read what else he had to say here.




Behind The Scenes Of Def Leppard's VIVA! Hysteria
(hennemusic) A new video report by Fuse TV gives fans a behind the scenes look at Def Leppard's "VIVA! Hysteria."

The UK rockers are in the second week of their Las Vegas residency at The Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, where they'll perform 11 shows between March 22 and April 13.

"VIVA! Hysteria" features two sets from the band at each performance: the first is a wild card collection of songs that will change from night to night; the scond presents the band's iconic 1987 album, "Hysteria," from start to finish.

Prior to the launch of the series, Def Leppard released a newly recorded version of the song "Hysteria."

The new single is the latest song re-recorded by the band as they were unable to come to an agreement with their former record label over digital rights fees. Check out the behind the scenes video




Pink Floyd's Dark Side Of The Moon Radio Play Coming
(Classic Rock) A play based on Pink Floyd's The Dark Side Of The Moon will be broadcast on BBC Radio 2 to mark the album's 40th anniversary.

Entitled Dark Side, it was written by long-term fan Sir Tom Stoppard and the cast includes Bill Nighy and Rufus Sewell. It's set for broadcast on August 26.

Floyd guitarist David GIlmour has read the script and says he found it "fascinating." He adds: "I can't wait to hear it come to life with the great cast performing it, and our music woven into it. I can't think of a better way to celebrate The Dark Side Of The Moon's 40-year anniversary."

Stoppard admits he'd been thinking about writing the work since the album was released in 1973. "I had no idea for a long time what I would do," he explains. "Finally I found some time, sat down and listened to the album for the thousandth time, picked up from the beginning and kept going. more on this story




Rolling Stones Getting Standard Pay For Glastonbury
(Classic Rock) The Rolling Stones are getting the "bog standard" fee for headlining Glastonbury, organiser Michael Eavis has confirmed.

Fans will be able to see Mick Jagger and co plus hundreds of other acts for around half the price of a standard ticket to the Stones' 50th anniversary concerts last year.

And when the veterans take to the stage on June 29 they won't be receiving preferential treatment in terms of money.

Eavis tells the BBC Today programme: "There's a bog standard price for the headliner – we get headliners for a tenth of the normal price. They're not being paid very much.

"Headliners are always good to us because they want to do it. They get TV and huge record sales straight after the show." more on this story




Slash Jam's AC/DC Classic With Anthrax
(hennemusic) Slash joined Anthrax at the House Of Blues in Hollywood Wednesday night to rock out on an AC/DC classic. The pair teamed up for "TNT," one of the tunes featured on Anthrax's newly-released EP of covers called "Anthems."

"Just went to see Exodus & Anthrax," Slash tweeted after the show. "Missed Exodus though. Anthrax is kicking ass. Played TNT w/them. Good Xs!"

Anthrax are currently on the road headlining the Metal Alliance tour, along with Exodus, High On Fire, Municipal Waste and Holy Grail.

In addition to the AC/DC classic, "Anthems'" also features Rush's "Anthem", Thin Lizzy's 'Jailbreak', Boston's 'Smokin', 'Big Eyes' by Cheap Trick, Journey's 'Keep On Runnin', as well as the album version and a special remix of Anthrax's "Crawl", from the band's 2011 album, "Worship Music." Watch video of the Slash jam here.





Smashing Pumpkins Begin Working On New Album
(Gibson) Billy Corgan and the Smashing Pumpkins have spent a good deal of time touring in support of their current full-length, Oceania, but they're ready to start looking ahead to the future. Earlier this week, Corgan dropped the news via Twitter that he and his band have official started work on the next Pumpkins album.

"Excited to announce today's our 1st official day of writing for new SP album. Wish us luck!" he tweeted.

Gibson's Anne Erickson recently had the chance to chat with Corgan about how he gets that characteristic Pumpkins tone. "I think if you want to get the Gibson end of the Pumpkins sound, you take any amp that has a pretty good pre-amp in it, and the treble is probably not going to go any higher than about 3 o'clock," he said. "You want the treble on 2 or 3 o'clock. You don't want the highs too cranky. You want to scoop the mids a bit, so the mids are probably somewhere in the range of 10 o'clock, and then the bass is in the range of 3 o'clock.

"So, you want bass but not too much bass, you want treble but not too much treble and you want to scoop the mids, and that's pretty much where you start. And crank the pre-amp all the way up." more on this story






ZZ Top Plan American Spring Tour
(Gibson) ZZ Top have lined up a number of tour dates in the U.S. after they have just wrapped up a tour of Australia, which included dates with Guns N' Roses.

After the U.S .dates, they are heading to Europe for a short summer tour, before heading back to the US for a pair of summer festivals, including Bonnaroo, and the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

On top of that, guitarist Billy Gibbons will reunite with the Moving Sidewalks, his band from the late '60s, for two shows — March 30 in New York City, and April 28 for the Austin Psych Fest in Austin, Texas.

"Keep on keepin' on!" Billy Gibbons told the Compass news, "We put this band together with nothing in mind but getting out there and playin' some of that low down rockin' blues. Moreover, we have to keep it on the move. We don't know anything else."

New ZZ Top tour dates:

5/2 — Newkirk, Okla
5/3 — Concho, Okla.
5/4 — Memphis, Tenn
5/8 — Wallingford, Ct.
5/9 — Morristown, N.J.
5/10 — Crewe, Va.
5/11 — Atlantic City, N.J.
5/13 — Lancaster, Penn.
5/14 — Englewood, N.J.
5/15 — Westbury, N.Y.
5/17 — Hampton Beach, N.H.
5/18 — Lynn, Mass.
5/19 — Baltimore, Md.
5/21 — Knoxville, Tenn.
5/25 — Biloxi, Miss.
6/13 — Manchester, Tenn. (Bonnaroo)
8/1 — Costa Mesa, Calif.
8/4 — Sturgis, S.D. (Motorcycle Rally)






Jay Pepper Admits It May Be Time To Bring Curtain Down On Tigertailz
(Classic Rock) Tigertailz guitarist Jay Pepper has shared his frustration over the turmoil that's surrounded his band over the past five years.

He and bassist Pepsi Tate restarted the Welsh outfit in 2004 – but their plans were derailed when Tate was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He died in 2007 after they'd released two new albums, Bezerk 2.0 and Thrill Pistol.

Since then Pepper has remained with the band as frontman Kim Hooker returned then left again, amid a revolving-door progression of other musicians. Yesterday original drummer Ace Finchum announced his second departure, calling the organisation a "bloody mess."

With bassist Jason Sims having recently dropped, Pepper admits it could be time to "bring the curtain down" – but he's not yet sure.

He spoke to Classic Rock about the ups and downs of the band's recent incarnation. Read that here.



Beware Of Darkness Release Howl Video
(Classic Rock) Los Angeles-based Beware Of Darkness are preparing to release their debut full-length album Orthodox via Bright Antenna Records and have released a video for the song "Howl".

This new power trio is made up of songwriter and guitarist Kyle Nicolaides, drummer Tony Cupito and bass general Daniel Curcio.

On first listen, Orthodox is a mindless good time aimed somewhere between the gut and a dirty dive bar. It is not, however, a thoughtless endeavour. In actual fact, it turns out it's a (deep breath now) "heady meditation on death and its implications for the living".

"I remember being 13 or 14 and being in school one day, and having that realisation that I'm going to die," says frontman Nicolaides. "That's kind of why I started writing songs and working really hard in high school. It was weird, because there was a motivation for me. I had read an article about a local girl who had just died in a car crash. You realise, that man, it could happen any time.

"The working title was Bleak," he reveals. "It became Orthodox. I kept writing that word down in my journals. Once I finally looked up what it meant, it made sense and it fit. The first half means right and true, the second half means belief. Check out the video and read more.



Gibson Make Strategic Investment in TEAC
(Gibson) Gibson Guitar Corp. announced early this morning an agreement to make a strategic investment into Japan's TEAC CORPORATION.

TEAC is one of the world's top names in audio and visual equipment, and a leading producer of data storage equipment and related products. The transaction was unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies.

Gibson has entered into an agreement, signed today, with Phoenix Capital in which two investment funds operated by Phoenix Capital have agreed to sell to Gibson all the shares they own in TEAC Corporation, or 157,447,000 shares, (54.4% of the issued and outstanding shares), at a price agreed between the parties of 31 JPY per share. As this will result in Gibson acquiring over one third of TEAC, Japan's Financial Instruments and Exchange Law requires Gibson to undertake a tender offer process.

Thus, Gibson, through a special purpose vehicle, will make an all-cash tender offer to purchase 157,447,000 shares of TEAC common stock for 31 Japanese Yen per share in cash. Gibson will purchase a maximum of 157,500,000 shares. The tender offer period is scheduled to commence on April 1, 2013 and will remain open for 21 Japanese business days.

Today, TEAC's Board of Directors issued a press release supporting the tender offer. more on this story






Singled Out: The NowhereNauts
Today The NowhereNauts producer Kevin March tells us about their current single and title track to their latest album "Warned You". Here is the story:

Songwriting with The NowhereNauts is a collaborative effort between Sofie, Anders, Hunter, Tony and myself. "Warned You" was developed in one of our collaborative writing rehearsal sessions back in May 2011 as we started looking forward to recording our second album. The song's inception began with the guitar intro riff Hunter started playing, and we built the song off of that spark. I was immediately excited to hear a song that could build off of this simple, mesmerizing guitar hook; almost like a drone. So we began with everyone jamming trying to develop the part using dynamics as the focus for the song to create an emotional rollercoaster. I joined Tony on floor toms as he played around the drum kit so we could keep the tribal vibe that the guitar part invoked. (We recorded the song this way in the studio too; me playing alongside Tony on the same kit). Anders began by moving around melodically on the bass and discovered a part that supported the guitar and drums (almost like a trombone or tuba would do as support in a New Orleans brass band—especially in the outro of the song)—this was getting very exciting. Sofie started improvising vocal melodies and some lyrical ideas. Once I heard that we essentially had three parts, we created a song form and played straight for about thirty minutes focusing on dynamics. We then recorded an instrumental version so that everyone could develop other melodies and lyrical ideas. What I found when listening back to the initial jam session recordings was that Sofie had some really interesting vocal melodies, and the hook "I, I, I," was there along with the words "I warned you." I took lines that I thought she was saying and made them more personal and emotional and added some rhythmic syncopation and wrote the verse lines " I warned you, I wear my heart on my sleeve more than most" then Sofie wrote " I want you, I use my heart as a lure more than most," and then I suggested "I want you" and to use both "I warned you" and "I want you"---the song now had a vulnerability to it giving it more emotion. Tony added the melody and lyrical hook that is used in the 2nd chorus over the "I, I, I" and I shaped it to make it more mellifluous and sang it in the studio: "And I want somebody to, and I want somebody to hold you." I wrote the melody and lyrics for the sing-a-long anthemic outro "Goodbye" and then Sofie brought into the studio the final lyrical part "You're mine" and that solidified the song as the voice of a femme fatale, which inspired the video too. Carl Glanville took the production to a whole new level when he mixed the song using Sofie's vocal range, the dynamics, space, and then the instrumental and vocal sonic density at the end to take the listener for a ride!

Note: I record every rehearsal when we are in writing mode because I never know what is going to be captured, and most likely we will forget what we just did. Because creativity is very linear, and thinking forward, you can't depend on the memory at this stage to get you back to a great idea or even remember how it sounded. Recording writing sessions takes the stress out of remembering, and allows the writer to freely create ideas, that can be examined and "rediscovered" later.

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



Thirty Seconds to Mars Literally Go Up in the Air With Lyric Video
(Radio.com) Thirty Seconds to Mars frontman Jared Leto has called the band's upcoming album Love Lust Faith + Dreams a "brand new beginning," backing up that statement with first single "Up in the Air," a swift rocker with slight electronic undertones.

The song was launched aboard a Falcon 9 rocket that docked at the International Space Station, so it seems only fitting that space continues to play an integral role within the song's new lyric video. The video features footage taken from the International Space Station as it orbits Earth, while the song's lyrics flash onscreen.

A proper music video for "Up in the Air" was shot in early February, with the guys putting out a casting call for "a female bodybuilder, a voluptuous male, natural redheads and a person who can perform tricks on a pogo stick." The clip also reportedly features American Olympic gymnast McKayla Maroney. We'll have to see if she's actually impressed by the band. Watch the lyric video here.




Led Zeppelin's Houses Of The Holy Turns 40
(Radio.com) Radio.com continue their Not Fade Away series with a look at Led Zeppelin's 1973 classic "Houses Of The Holy," which turned 40 this week (March 28).

The "everything but the kitchen sink" approach to recording albums can be a dangerous one for rock bands. On one hand, it leaves many possibilities open. On the other, it can result in albums that sound haphazard and unfocused. In 1972 and 1973, Led Zeppelin was one of the most powerful forces popular music had ever known. At the peak of their artistic and commercial powers, they were looking to expand their horizons. After exploring the spectrum of the blues, from the dirt floor acoustic sounds of the Delta to the rave-up electric sound of the Chicago (notably artists from the Chess label, namely Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf and Buddy Guy), they began looking elsewhere for inspiration while keeping one foot firmly entrenched in blues.

Opening with the rocker "The Song Remains The Same," Robert Plant sang, "Anything I wanted to know, any place I needed to go," would become something of a mantra for the singer, who to this day still explores new genres from bluegrass to Egyptian music. The song's title, which would also end up as the name of their 1976 concert film and live album, set the tone for the album. Although they would try different styles on the album, it was still identifiably Zeppelin.

Rolling Stone revisited the album in 2003, giving it a belated five-star review. In the review, writer Gavin Edwards noted that "The Rain Song" was inspired by George Harrison, who lamented to John Bonham that Zeppelin didn't have any ballads (apparently he missed "Thank You," "That's The Way" "Tangerine" and "Going To California"). Instead of locking Harrison in a room with Zeppelin's II, III and their untitled fourth album, they locked down and created one of their most tender moments: "The Rain Song." The song really showed the band's growth, and Jimmy Page took a quantum leap forward as a producer. Instead of using layers of guitars to create something fearsome (a la "Whole Lotta Love"), this time he created something of beauty and sadness, and one that still feels fresh today. A lot of the credit for that also goes to Robert Plant, who restrained some of his machismo on the song. The "golden god" wasn't always the easiest singer to relate to and he didn't attempt to be, but when he sings "Upon us all, a little rain must fall," he was. It has one of his finest performances ever. more.




Trucker Diablo Release Drive Video
(Classic Rock) Classic Rock have proudly to premiered Trucker Diablo's new music video for their new single Drive. It's taken from the rising Irish stars' second album, Songs Of Iron, due out in May via Ripple Music and Bad Reputation.

They're one of Black Star Riders frontman Ricky Warwick's favourite new bands – he's referred to them as "hardworking, fantastic musicians and players, and a really great bunch of guys."

Drive has already proved popular at Trucker Diablo's many live shows, including tour support with Terrorvision last year. See them for yourself with The Treatment at Rock City, Nottingham, this Sunday (March 31). Watch the video here.




The World of Guitar According to Paul McCartney
(Gibson) Paul McCartney seems to have found another gear. Last year he undertook his record-breaking "On the Run" tour, staged several memorable one-off appearances (including a stunning Olympics Opening Ceremony concert) and released a terrific new album, Kisses on the Bottom. 2013 is shaping up to be just as busy. A few days ago, the legendary former Beatle announced that a new world tour – dubbed "Out There!" – will kick off June 22 in Poland. Plus, a new studio album is in the works. With this swirl of activity simmering, we decided to gather some choice commentary from Sir Paul on a range of topics. Below, he talks about his love of guitars, his approach to bass playing, and why "nicking" great riffs is not a bad thing to do.

On getting his first guitar, as told to Guitar Player (1990): I bought a right-handed guitar, a Zenith, an old acoustic which I've still got. I sat down at home with a little chord book and started trying to work it out. It didn't feel good at all … very awkward. It was only when I saw a picture of Slim Whitman in a magazine, holding his guitar the "wrong" way, that I thought, "Oh, he must have turned his strings around." So I started on that problem, which is always the nut. I used to actually take matchsticks and build up the bass nut. It was only later that I was able to buy a left-handed guitar.

On his favorite guitar part as a Beatle, as told to Guitar Player (1990): I like "Taxman" just because of what it was. I was very inspired by Jimi Hendrix. It was really my first voyage into feedback. It was just before George was into that. In fact, I don't really think George got too heavily into that kind of thing. George was generally a little more restrained in his guitar playing. He wasn't into heavy feedback.

On how he and Lennon wrote songs together, as told to Drowned in Sound (2012): We had a kind of system, which was: you just sat with a pad of paper and a pencil, and you sat at your guitar or your piano, and you make a song, and within about three hours, you should have finished the song. That's how we always did it.

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Queensryche Release First Song With New Singer
(Classic Rock) The version of Queensryche fronted by Todd La Torre have released "Redemption," which is their first track with the new vocalist.
The prog metal veterans, who dramatically sacked Geoff Tate last year, will release their next album on June 10 via Century Media.

Bassist Jackson recently said: "Queensryche is excited to begin writing this next chapter in our career with Century Media. We are pleased to call them partners on this journey. We are also thankful for all of the fans who have supported us from day one and helped us to get where we are today."

Tate has formed his own version of Queensryche following a court ruling that allows both parties to use the name until a final decision in November. His band will play 1988 classic album Operation: Mindcrime in full on tour in April in the US, while La Torre's version of the band tour the UK. Listen to the new song here.




Jason Newsted's New Band Announces U.S. Club Tour
American fans will soon be able to see former Metallica bass player Jason Newsted's new band Newsted in action as they have announced a series of U.S. tour dates.

The band have mapped out a number of club dates across the U.S. that will be kicking off on April 19th in Walnut Creek, CA and wrapping up in Asbury Park, NJ.

The tour will visit several cities in California, as well as two cities in Nevada, play the KUPD Ufiesta in Mesa, Arizona, play two shows in Michigan, plus one-offs in Chicago, New York City and Cambridge, Ma.

Jason had this to say about the upcoming tour, "Can't wait to get out there and crush it for the fans around the world!"

As we reported last week, the band has added Staind's Mike Mushok to their lineup. The group is currently planning to release their debut full length album this summer. more on this story




Baroness Lose Members In Aftermath of Bus Crash
The wounds from the horrific bus crash that Baroness suffered last summer appear to run deep as the band has announced that two members are leaving the group in the aftermath of the crash.

The band was on tour last summer when their tour bus fell 30 feet off of a viaduct on a road outside of Bath, England and several members of the band and crew were hospitalized for their injuries.

The band says that they are all now healthy, but due to the effects of accident drummer Allen Blickle and bassist Matt Maggioni have left the band.

John Baizley offered fans these details when making the announcement on Monday: "Nothing can truly prepare you for a brush with death. The event is unique one, singular to the observer. Trust me, you don't want to invite the experience. Our bus accident left indelible marks, external and internal, physical and mental, you name it. Each of the nine of us went through and continues to go through an entirely different, yet common experience. We are tied to each other by a trauma, which, despite its damage, has been made individually easier through our shared ordeal. While I would never wish the incident on anyone, I cannot imagine going through that wreck alone.

"Thankfully, injury was not dealt out evenly; unfortunately it was dealt in great supply. Each of the nine of us now finds our self in a drastically different circumstance, and we each move forward accordingly. There are two important things to note. First, we are all healthy. We are recovering at different rates, and we'll all be fine in the end. Second, Baroness has made a commitment to pick up where we left off, and get back out on tour, where we belong. In fact, I am personally staking my recovery on this principle; it gives me direction and something to look forward to (finally).

"However, for some of us, the accident necessitated a change that would prevent them from performing music or touring. It is with sadness that we must announce that Matt Maggioni and Allen Blickle will not continue touring with Baroness. The details of their departure are not sensational; they do not come with hard feelings. Nor are the details going to be public; suffice it to say we'd like to keep to ourselves the finer points of this situation, to respect the privacy of all involved. more on this story




Alice In Chains Release New Song
(hennemusic) Alice In Chains have released "Stone" to radio as the second track from their forthcoming album, "The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here."

The new song follows the lead single, "Hollow," which was issued last December. The new album "The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here" was recorded in Los Angeles with producer Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Deftones) and will be released on May 28.

The new album is the follow-up to 2009's "Black Gives Way To Blue" and is the group's second effort with singer William DuVall. Check out the new song here.




Van Halen Picked Up The Fisti-Cuffs Right Away When Roth Returned
(hennemusic) Eddie and Alex Van Halen were interviewed by Australia's Triple M to promote the band's April 20 appearance at The Stone Music Festival at ANZ Stadium in Sydney.

The event marks the first VH visit down under since 1998, and first ever with David Lee Roth. The Triple M team asked the guys what it was like to gave Roth back in the band after all these years.

"It's like you walk into the studio and we haven't been together for a while and there's this overwhelming sense of 'coming home'. That's the best way I can describe it," said Alex. "All the time we were apart was if it hadn't existed and we picked up the fisti-cuffs right away" (laughs).

"It's like a pair of jeans that just fit right," added Eddie.

Eddie's son Wolfgang has been playing bass in the band for the past seven years, after replacing original bassist Michael Anthony in 2006. "Of course it's exciting, and he keeps us young," laughed Eddie of having his son in the band.

"It's good to have a different perspective on the music we recorded 35 years ago," added Alex. "We're really happy the music has stood the test time and I think having a different generation being involved with it gives us a different perspective." Stream the full interview here.




Queens Of The Stone Age Reveal New Album Name and Song Samples
(Gibson) Queens Of The Stone Age's new album is called ...Like Clockwork. Small snippets of tracks from the album are available right now at the band's website, QOTSA.com.

Refresh the page and click on the 'Q' to hear different clips, but don't expect to get much of a feel for what the record will ultimately sound like: the clips are rather abstract and ambient, and Josh Homme and co are obviously playing their hand pretty close to their chests on this one.

…Like Clockwork features guest appearances from, well … everyone! Or at least, Elton John, Mark Lanegan (Screaming Trees), Dave Grohl (who returns to the QOTSA drum seat), Nine Inch Nails mastermind Trent Reznor, Scissor Sisters vocalist Jake Shears, and even former QOTSA bass player Nick Oliveri.

Grohl won't be joining the band on the road though, so they'll announce their new live drummer shortly. more on this story






Pussy Riot's Plight Spotlighted on 60 Minutes
(Radio.com) It's been over a year since members of Russian feminist punk group Pussy Riot were detained for speaking out against Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow's Cathedral of Christ the Savior, but don't think the band is feeling remorse for its actions.

"I'm here to say you shouldn't give up," said the band's drummer, referred to only as "Kot," in Pussy Riot's interview Sunday night (March 24) with CBS's 60 Minutes. "What happened to us is unacceptable."

"Kot" was not one of the three members of Pussy Riot arrested in March 2012 following the band's February protest, and thus, hid her identity with one of the balaclavas the group is known for wearing.

However, Yekaterina Samutsevich, one of members arrested (and now freed), was also interviewed during the 60 Minutes segment. She maintained Pussy Riot's innocence from the charges they faced (hooliganism motivated by religious hatred) and stressed that they "want the government to leave power, because we consider it illegitimate. But we're advocating for a peaceful overthrow."

The protest was conducted at the Moscow cathedral, an imposing structure located next to the Kremlin, on February 21, 2012, to bring attention to the repressive Russian government led by Putin. By that night, the collective had taken footage shot during the protest and made it into a music video titled "Punk Prayer – Mother of God, Chase Putin Away!". Samutsevich, along with Nadezhda Tolokonnikova and Maria Alyokhina, were arrested in the protest's wake. Though all three were convicted in an August trial, Samutsevich was freed on probation in October after an appeal, but her two bandmates remain imprisoned until March 2014. more on this story




Mastodon To Rock Sturgis
Mastodon will be rocking this year's Sturgis Motorcycle Rally as they have been tapped to kick off the Sturgis Buffalo Chip music festival's Wednesday August 7th lineup.

The Wednesday night show is set to feature rock with organizers teasing that they will be announcing two additional bands that will perform that night in the coming weeks.

This year's Sturgis Buffalo Chip music festival will be taking placing from August 2nd through August 11th and will include sets from Kid Rock, Toby Keith, ZZ Top, Halestorm, Brantley Gilbert, Queensrÿche and Sublime with Rome.

"Known worldwide, Mastodon is considered to be one of the greatest metal bands of their generation," says Rod Woodruff of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. "Their powerful shows are the exact reason fans are excited to see them at the Chip for the first time this summer." More info on the festival




Motley Crue's Nikki Sixx To Sell Fans His Guitars
(hennemusic) Motley Crue's Nikki Sixx announced to fans that he plans to launch a new campaign where he will be selling his stage-played bass guitars.

"I have been asked 1000's of times to sell my basses I play onstage but have never found a way to do it and feel that that special collector would be getting more than just the instrument," Sixx writes. "Starting in Canada, I will be giving it a try to fulfill the years of fans requests."

"I know if I could of had this chance to meet a Keith Richards or a Joe Perry and have them play my guitar onstage I bought and give it to me after words, I would've jumped at the chance," he continues. "I think the thing that convinced me was the massive amount of emails I got about this and saying since you guy are gonna be doing a farewell tour soon,we will never get this chance again...Thanks guys......I will update you with a link in a week or so..." more on this story





The Beatles' Debut Album Turns 50
(Radio.com) In Not Fade Away, we take a look at the legacy of some of the greatest albums of the past few decades – some iconic, some lesser known – as they celebrate significant anniversaries. Here, we take a look at The Beatles' debut LP, Please Please Me.

"The Beatles adopt a do-it-yourself approach from the very beginning. They write their own lyrics, design and eventually build their own instrumental backdrops and work out their own vocal arrangements. Their music is wild, pungent, hard-hitting, uinhibited… and personal."

The above gem comes from the liner notes to The Beatles' Please Please Me, which turned 50 this past weekend. There are so many things that The Beatles are remembered for, chief among them an unmatched catalog of songs. There have been way too many bands to count that started in The Beatles' wake, and it's likely that most of them write their own lyrics, as well as "design their own instrumental backdrops" (i.e. compose their own music) and work out their own vocal arrangements. But before the Fab Four, this wasn't the norm.

Later in the liner notes, Beatles press officer Tony Barrow writes, "Their own built-in tune-smith team of John Lennon and Paul McCartney has already tucked away enough self-penned numbers to maintain a steady output of all-original singles from now until 1975!" It's hard to read that bit without a feeling pang of regret.

Another thing that wasn't the norm back then: Spending years, months or even weeks in the studio making a pop album. Please Please Me was famously recorded in a 10-hour session. These days, it could take exponentially longer than 10 hours just to get a drum sound. So credit producer George Martin – these days, that's Sir George Martin to you – for producing a world-changing bit of music in less than half a day. Indeed, BBC Four recently shot 12 Hours To Please Me, a TV documentary in which a number of British acts (including Joss Stone, Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook of Squeeze, Paul Carrack and Mick Hucknall of Simply Red) attempted to re-record all the songs on the album in 12 hours (they succeeded in this). Today, it's the premise for a reality show, but back then, it was simply what the budget allowed for. more on this story




More A World With Heroes KISS Charity Tribute Details
(Gibson) Want to contribute to a 40th anniversary tribute to KISS and to help raise funds for a worthy cause too? Music journalist Mitch Lafon is the mastermind behind A World With Heroes, a KISS tribute album featuring a bunch of well-known artists paying tribute to their favorite fire-breathing, blood-spitting, cherrypicker-riding, zip-lining, flame-throwing rock band.

A PledgeMusic campaign is under way to help fund the project, with proceeds also benefiting a cancer care hospice. All basic tracks were recorded by Eric Brittingham (bass, Cinderella), Jeff LaBar (guitar, Cinderella) and Troy Lucketta (drums, Tesla).

The vocalists and other artists that will contribute to the CD include: Don Dokken, Mark Tornillo (Accept), Terry Ilous (Great White), Bumblefoot (GNR), Mark Slaughter (Slaughter), Russ Dwarf (The Killer Dwarfs), Ron Young (Little Caesar), Doug Aldrich (Whitesnake), Rex Brown (Pantera, Kill Devil Hill), Dery Grehan (Honeymoon Suite), Bill Leverty (Firehouse), Phil Lewis (LA GUNS), Doro, Tommy Denander, Slaves on Dope (w/Jason Rockman), Phil Naro (ex-Talas & Peter Criss), Ron Keel, Sean Kelly (Nelly Furtado, Helix) and more to be announced shortly. more on this story






Hunter Hunted Announce Dates With Fitz and the Tantrums
Hunter Hunted will be hitting the road next month for a short run of North American tour dates with Fitz and the Tantrums.

The tour is set to kick off on April 12th in Athens, GA at 40 Watt and will wrap up on April 24th in Columbia, MO at Blue Note.

Prior to the tour, Hunter Hunted will be playing a one-off headline show at New York City's Mercury Lounge on April 1st and will then play two shows with Family of the Year. more on this story





Eisley Releasing New Album in May
Equal Vision Records have set a May 28th release date for Eisley's forth studio album, which will be called "Currents."

The band self-produced and self-recorded the album in their home studio in Tyler, Tx. Vocalist/guitarist Sherri DuPree-Bemis had this to say about the album, "Currents is honestly the first time we've had total and complete free reign over the making of one of our records and it felt so liberating."

"We were able to dig deeper musically; There are lusher arrangements and more abstract themes. I feel like we really were able to experiment this time in the studio while still enjoying doing what we love...which is essentially writing pop songs."

"I think our fans have always appreciated that Eisley doesn't sound exactly like every other band and I think we've succeeded in taking that element a bit further on this record.

"We're more confident as a band than we have ever been. I think the people that have always loved the darker, whimsical side of our sound will be very pleased with the songs on this record while the people who have enjoyed what's melodic, simple and sweet about Eisley will be quite pleased as well. more on this story




Rush Have No Plans To Retire Anytime Soon
(Classic Rock) Rush frontman Geddy Lee says the band aren't even close to thinking about retirement and in fact they're enjoying a new lease of life.

The Canadian giants, who next month will be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, broke the habit of a lifetime when they hired a string section to join them on stage for their Clockwork Angels world tour.

The results have even surprised the band although they were initially concerned that fans might not welcome the move.

With a renewed energy alongside fans' excitement over their Rock Hall induction, Lee says it would be futile for Rush to consider winding down any time soon.

He says: "I think it's foolish to look too far into the future with a band like us. We really dig each other as friends and writing partners. I don't think I've ever seen Neil as happy as he is on this tour. It demeans the whole thing to try to predict the end. Let's say we're happy right now and we'll see how it all goes." more on this story





Download Festival Lineup Expands
(Classic Rock) Download festival organisers have added 17 more bands to the 2013 festival bill, headlined by Slipknot, Iron Maiden and Rammstein.

The latest additions for the Donington Park event on June 14-16 are Black Stone Cherry – who headline the second stage on Friday – plus Chthonic, Dragonforce, Fearless Vampire Killers, Fidlar, Ghost, Hammer Of The Gods, Idiom, Krokodil, Little Caeser, Masters Of Reality, Palm Reader, Patent Pending, Red White & Blues, Rival Sons, Satyricon and Voodoo Six.

Little Caesar, who debuted latest single Dirty Water on Classic Rock recently, make their first Donington appearance after a two-decade wait.

Frontman Ron Young explains: "20 years ago we were offered to play the festival when it was called Monsters Of Rock. We had to turn it down because our label would not give us the funds to get there.

"Today, with no label, manager or big-money supporters, we finally made it." Read more and see the current lineup for the festival here.





Lou Diamond Phillips Helps Imagine Dragons Go Radioactive
(Radio.com) If the comical, puppet-laden music video for Imagine Dragons breakout hit "Radioactive" featuring actor Lou Diamond Phillips came as something of a surprise for the intense tune, that reaction was exactly the band's intention.

"We got probably a hundred (video) treatments from different directors. We sifted through them and a lot of them were sort of what you'd expect for a video like that," explained the band's guitarist Wayne Sermon during an exclusive interview with Radio.com.

"Gas masks, tanks, a post-apocalyptic world and all that stuff. We sort of wanted to do something different. Being fans of Foo Fighters and a lot of their videos, they don't take themselves all too seriously. We kind of wanted to follow that vein. We feel like it still captured the intensity of the song, but in a way that's sort of different."

Indeed, as the surreal clip features Lou Diamond Phillips presiding over an underground puppet-fighting ring that's challenged by a young girl and her unassuming pink teddy bear.

"Lou Diamond Phillips was amazing and he was hilarious. He actually reached out to us. I guess his daughters were fans, and he became a fan that way," Sermon said of the fortuitous casting. "He reached out and said, 'hey, if you guys are doing a video, you know, I'd love to be a part of it.' We were like, 'Okay get on a plane right now, we'll make a role for you.'"

"I think he had to fly out by Southwest, you know, like red eye," injected the band's bassist, Ben McKee. A lot more.




Soundgarden Preview Artist's Den TV Appearance
(hennemusic) Soundgarden are sharing a preview of their upcoming appearance on the hit PBS series Live From The Artist's Den.

The series filmed the final date of the first leg of Soundgarden's North American tour in support of "King Animal." The band were captured at The Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles on February 17. PBS has yet to announce a broadcast date for the show.

Soundgarden return to the road to launch the second leg of the tour on May 3rd in Atlantic City, NJ. Watch the preview here.




Fall Out Boy Kidnapped And Dismembered In New Video
(Radio.com) Fall Out Boy's upcoming album is titled Save Rock and Roll, but if the music videos for the album's first two singles are any indication, it might be Fall Out Boy itself that needs saving.

Sunday night (March 24), the band released the video for "The Phoenix," the album's second single, and it's a doozy. "The Phoenix" continues the vibe that first single "My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark (Light Em Up)" established: grandiosity. Strings and keyboards back the band with a growing intensity as singer/guitarist Patrick Stump lays down a take-no-prisoners vocal.

"I'm gonna change you like a remix / Then I'll raise you like a phoenix," he sings over a flurry of guitars, drums and strings. Like the single before it, "The Phoenix" marks a change in direction musically for the band, straying from its pop-punk roots. But that's the route Fall Out Boy has been planning to follow since first announcing the record: "Obvious and safe doesn't seem that rock and roll to me," said Stump in early February.

The video serves as the prequel to the "Light Em Up" video, which featured what appeared to be the band bound in the back of a van after rapper 2 Chainz and two scantily-clad women set band equipment on fire. Here, Fall Out Boy has come into possessing a briefcase, the contents of which aren't exactly revealed, but are apparently incredibly important (and bright). more on this story




Queenryche and Saxon Are Talking Metal
Members of Queenryche and Saxon's Biff Byford were the featured guests on the latest episode of the Talking Metal podcast.

Talking Metal caught up with Queensryche's Todd La Torre, Michael Wilton, Eddie Jackson, Parker Lundgren for the show.

They discuss the band's current relationship with Chris Degarmo, the current set list, how Todd ended up in the band, gear and the current legal battle for the band name.

Biff Byford discussed Saxon's new album and documentary. You can listen to the new episode here.




Deep Purple Release Video of New Album Photo Shoot
(hennemusic) Deep Purple are sharing some behind the scenes video as they gear up to release their new album, "NOW What?!"

The band have issued footage of their November 2012 photo shoot in Berlin, Germany with photographer Jim Rakete.

"NOW What?!" was produced by Bob Ezrin (Pink Floyd, Alice Cooper, Kiss and many others); it is the group's 19th studio album and first since 2005's "Rapture Of The Deep."

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


System of a Down Will Record New Album
(Radio.com) During an exclusive interview with L.A. radio station KROQ, System of a Down drummer John Dolmayan promised that the band will indeed reconvene to record music. Just don't ask him when it's going to happen.
"We are going to make a new album at a certain point, it's just a matter of when the four of us decide it's the right time to make it," Dolmayan said. "We don't want anyone to go in there and do it because the rest of us want to do it. We all want to do it because it's the right thing to do for everybody."

"I wouldn't want to go in and make an album that doesn't represent the best that we have to offer, the drummer continued. "If you force someone in the studio ahead of when they're ready for it, then you're probably going to make something mediocre."

System of a Down recently announced their only American concert date of 2013 with a July 29 show at Los Angeles' Hollywood Bowl, marking the band's debut performance at the legendary venue. more on this story



Black County Communion Officially Over
(Classic Rock) Black County Communion frontman Glenn Hughes says the band "is over" because guitarist Joe Bonamassa has left, and won't let the remaining members keep using the name.

The classic rock outfit released three acclaimed studio albums before internal tensions boiled over, with Hughes last year revealing he was thinking of quitting because he wanted to play live, and Bonamassa insisted he wasn't available.

That led to a series of public outbursts in which the two musicians took pot-shots at each other before both said they were ready to "move on."

They appeared to calm down later and said they were talking to each other again. But Bonamassa continued to insist he'd always said he wouldn't have time to tour in support of 2012 album Afterglow – while Hughes, drummer Jason Bonham and keyboardist Derek Sherinian suggested they'd been led to believe otherwise before the record was recorded.

Now Hughes has had his own say via Twitter. He reports: "Just so it's crystal, BCC is over. Joe left and will not allow us to keep the name. Nice, huh?" But there is a silver lining.




Jeff Hanneman's Future In Slayer In Doubt?
(Classic Rock) Slayer's Kerry King has hinted the band could move on without Jeff Hanneman, who's been sidelined for two years after sustaining a near-fatal spider bite.

The guitarists haven't spoken to each other in some time, leading King to wonder whether Hanneman has any intention of rejoining the thrash giants. With two songs underway for their next album, King reveals he'd be comfortable with stand-in man Gary Holt of Exodus making his presence more permanent.

That could leave Slayer facing the future with just two founding members remaining after they dropped drummer Dave Lombardo for their Australian tour following a contractual dispute. Temporary replacement Jon Dette has already discussed the chances of his return becoming a full-time commitment.

King tells Metal Obsession: "I don't have an update – I haven't seen Jeff in forever. He's always been a recluse, and he's even been more of a recluse since he's not going on tour with us. Our manager talks to him from time to time and sees him in LA just randomly. But I'm far from LA, so I'm not in that loop." more on this story





Incubus Guitarist Clears Up Pearl Jam Speculation
(Radio.com) Contrary to stories last week Incubus guitarist Michael Einziger did not contribute to Pearl Jam's latest studio recording.

On March 13, Einziger tweeted a photo of himself with girlfriend, Ann Marie Simpson, and Eddie Vedder. He wrote, " In the studio with my girl and Eddie Vedder, recording strings for Pearl Jam's new album :)"

According to a tweet posted Friday by Einziger, it was in fact Simpson, an accomplished violinist, who was the one performing in studio with Pearl Jam. Einziger was merely in studio visiting. And, frankly, who wouldn't hang out with Pearl Jam if given the opportunity?

He tweeted, " Hello information superhighway. I am NOT contributing to @pearljam new album. My girl played on a song and I stopped by the studio to watch." more on this story




Megadeth Set Super Collider Release Date
Megadeth have set a release date for their new album, "Super Collider" and have announced a special online chat with frontman Dave Mustaine.

The album will be released on June 4th by Mustaine's new record label, Tradecraft, in partnership with Universal Music Enterprises. Fans can preorder the album here.

Mustaine has also announced plans to hold an online chat with fans on April 1st. The chat will be open to members of the Megadeth Army fanclub and will take place at 4 PM PST.

The band will be performing a series of concerts in Europe this spring. They will kick things off in Romania on May 22nd and conclude on June 9th in France.

They will also play state-side on July 20th with an appearance at the Chippewa Valley Rock Fest. more on this story




Dillinger Escape Plan Leads Summer Slaughter Lineup
This year's Summer Slaughter tour is set to feature The Dillinger Escape Plan, Animals As Leaders, Periphery, Norma Jean, Cattle Decapitation, The Ocean, Revocation, and Aeon.

The Dillinger Escape Plan frontman Greg Puciato had this to say, "We can't wait to get back on the road! We're launching a US tour in the spring, hitting Europe for some festivals and club shows, and then hitting several more cities with Summer Slaughter all summer long. We are absolutely amped. After being holed up in the studio for such a long time giving birth to One of Us is the Killer, we are all pent up and ready to share material new and old with our supporters doing what we love to do the most. Can't wait to see and either kiss or rip off each and every one of your faces on the road with Summer Slaughter and year round, everywhere."

The tour will kick off on July 19th and will run through August 24th. Organizers will also be announcing two more acts for the tour and fans will be selecting one of them.

They are asking fans to vote online for which band they would like to see on the tour. Voting is open until March 31st. You can cast your vote here.





Mike Portnoy, Riche Kotzen and Billy Sheehan Supergroup
(Classic Rock) Ex-Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy has announced the name of the project he's completed after he stopped working with guitarist John Sykes.

The Winery Dogs features Riche Kotzen in Sykes' place alongside bassist Billy Sheehan. Their album, described as "a really cool, unique record," is due out in May.

Meanwhile, ex-Thin Lizzy man Sykes has detailed his own new project – his fifth album will feature drummer Josh Freese, bassists Tony Franklin and Chris Chaney, drummer Curt Bisquera and keyboardist Jamie Muhoberac. More rock news.




Paul McCartney Working On New Music With Mark Ronson
(Gibson) Recently we reported that a new studio album from Paul McCartney was in the works. It's now come to light that producer Mark Ronson worked with McCartney on three songs for the project.

"He understands that you're so nervous to be working with Paul McCartney because everyone is," Ronson said, speaking to the Associated Press. "He gives you a lot of leeway, but then at the end of the day you need to deliver the goods."

Ronson went on to say collaborating with the legendary former Beatle was like "taking a master class in production." "He's done every kind of music," Ronson explained. "He invented the rule book in several different ways. I don't know if [our stuff] is revolutionary, but they're brilliant songs. I just tried to give him a sound he was looking for."

McCartney also announced earlier this week that he'll launch a world tour beginning June 22, in Warsaw, Poland. more on this story






Wilko Johnson Cancels Concerts Due to Health
(Classic Rock) Wilko Johnson was forced to cancel his two hometown shows at Canvey Island this past weekend due to health reasons.

The guitarist, who's winding up his farewell tour after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, apologised to fans for the late notice.

Johnson aims to complete work on a final album and live DVD before his illness renders him incapable of working. More rock news.





Eddie Van Halen and LL Cool J Collaboration Streaming Online
(hennemusic) Audio of one of the two new LL Cool J songs featuring Eddie Van Halen has surfaced and fans can listen to a stream of the track online.

The song is entitled "We're The Greatest" and it will appear on LL's forthcoming album, "Authentic," which is set to be released April 30.

Van Halen also plays on "Not Leaving You Tonight" along with Fitz and the Tantrums. "Authentic" is LL's 13th studio album and first in five years.

Eddie has made guest appearances on projects throughout his career, including records by Michael Jackson, Roger Waters, Steve Lukather, Dweezil Zappa, Thomas Dolby and Nicolette Larson. Listen to the song.




Whitesnake Slowing Down
(Classic Rock) Whitesnake frontman David Coverdale admits the days of hitting the road for nine-month world tours are behind him.

But that doesn't mean he's slowing down – the veteran vocalist has big plans for the coming year, including work with former bandmates Glenn Hughes and Bernie Marsden, plus an unplugged album.

Coverdale tells Metal Shrine: "My last long tour was in 2011 and you're going to see shorter ones now. I want to make sure I have the physical energy and power to be able to present shows as people want to see me. If I commit to a nine-month tour, I don't think I'm going to be able to deliver.

"I'm 61 years old and I'm in great shape – but I'm still 61 years old. It's going to be shorter tours and stuff."

That's one of the reasons he's hesitant to commit to a follow-up to 2011 album Forevermore. Read what he had to say here.





Video From Def Leppard's First Vegas Residency Show Goes Online
Def Leppard kicked off their Las Vegas residency on Friday at The Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and fan filmed video from the performance has been posted online.

The band split the show into two sets. The first set include fans favorites as well as some deep cuts including the rare B-side to the "Hello America" single "Good Morning Freedom" and four songs from their sophomore album "High 'n' Dry".

The second set featured the band playing their smash hit album "Hysteria" in its entirety. And they capped off the show with encore performances of "Rock of Ages" and "Photograph," two hit singles from their album "Pyromania."

The band will perform 11 shows in total at the club between March 22 and April 13 as part of the residency. You can watch the fan filmed video from the first show here.




Jonathan Carpenter Leaves The Contortionist
The Contortionist frontman Jonathan Carpenter and his girlfriend are expecting their first child and Carpenter has decided to leave the band to focus on his family.

The band has recruited Mike Lessard of Last Chance To Reason to take over vocal duties until they can find a permanent replacement.

Jonathan Carpenter had this to say to fans "It's going to be a jarring change of pace for my life, not being on the road most of the year. Making songs with the band and then performing them in front of the best fans has been a once in a lifetime experience. I wouldn't trade the perspective I've found in the past few years for anything. I got to meet so many amazing people and see a good chunk of the world. I absolutely intend to keep creating and playing music in the future, albeit in a more personal pursuit."

"I will miss seeing everyone in the TC family very much. I wish the best to all of my band buds and everyone who supports live music and all this heavy banger music we've been making. I feel very excited for my future with the love of my life and our pups, and our little one on the way."

"Music has always been one of my passions and that's what drew me to this band in the first place. The music comes first, and I know that the talent of the band will rise above this member change and they will find a new arrangement that will blow your minds." more on this story




Led Zeppelin Receive Lifetime Achievement Honor
Led Zeppelin received the inaugural International Lifetime Achievement Award at the ECHO awards in Berlin, Germany on Thursday.

Guitarist Jimmy Page and bassist John Paul Jones accepted the award on behalf of the band; singer Robert Plant was unable to attend the event since he had a concert scheduled the same night in Singapore.

"As long as we can be an inspiration, either as a group or individually or whatever… I mean, as far as I'm concerned, that's my lifetime achievement: that people will be inspired by the music," said Page. Watch video from the event here.





Fates Warning Recording First New Album in Nine Years
Fates Warning will be entering the studio next month to begin recording their first new studio album in nine years and have announced fall tour dates.

The lineup for Fates Warning for the new album features guitarist Jim Matheos, vocalist Ray Alder, guitarist Frank Aresti, bassist Joey Vera and drummer Bobby Jarzombek.

The band will be launching a world tour later this year. They have announced the fall leg which will take place in North American and will kick off on November 15th in Joliet, IL.

The band also plans to launch tours in Europe and South American and will be releasing the tour dates for those legs soon. more on this story




Fleetwood Mac Broke Up Stevie and Lindsey?
(Gibson) Stevie Nicks appears ready to open up about her romantic split with Lindsey Buckingham that occurred during the making of Fleetwood Mac's classic 1977 album, Rumours.

In an interview to air this weekend on Oprah Winfrey's Master Class, the veteran singer hints that her relationship with Buckingham soured because of the band.

"The band was way more important than each separate person's problems," she says. "And we knew that. So we never, ever, with everything that happened to us, ever, let love affairs break Fleetwood Mac up.

"But Lindsey always blamed Fleetwood Mac for the loss of me. Had we not joined Fleetwood Mac, we would have continued on with our music but we probably would've gotten married, and we probably would have had a child."

Fleetwood Mac is set to kick off a spring and summer tour on April 4 in Columbus, Ohio. more on this story






KISS Kids Comic Books Series Coming
(hennemusic) KISS have announced that they will be launching a new series of comics called KISS Kids that will begin publishing this fall.

The new venture will feature work by KISS series writers Chris Ryall and Tom Waltz with art by Jose Holder (Mars Attacks The Real Ghostbusters).

"KISS is used to rocking and rolling all night and partying every day, but back when they were little'uns, those things only happened around nap time," said Chris Ryall, also IDW's Chief Creative Officer/Editor-in-Chief. "This series will appeal to kids and Kiss fans of all ages, as we see the school-age band engage robots, evil teachers, other students, and much more, all filtered through the KISS lens. Beth, the school's Doctor Love, the snooty Torpedo Girls, the bratty "Wicked" Lester, nefarious Principal Elder… they're all here for this accessible, funny, and appealing new series."

The new KISS Kids series is being previewed in the form of a one-page strip on the back cover of all four issues of this spring's KISS Solo series. Check out the preview tease.





Koncrete Kite Singled Out Week: Banana Bread
We recently featured a Singled Out from Koncrete Kite to celebrate the release of their latest album "Full of Bull." Since the album covers so much musical territory we wanted to learn about more songs from the album. Today singer/guitarist Joe Bove tells us about the song "Banana Bread". Here is the story: Have a slice of "Banana Bread".

This song was a lot of fun to write. I was a huge Zeppelin fan growing up and Jimmy Page certainly had a big influence on my style of writing as a guitarist. That stated, during the creation of this song, I was heavily into the Beatles too, and I did my best to channel my inner John Lennon. Think "Bulldog" meets "Ten Years Gone".

The thought process behind the development of this song was simple. I wanted to write a song about someone who experienced a bad night of intoxication. Not in the event that they drank too much and made a fool of themselves, or even for something they did and regretted in the morning. No, this was specifically for a person who overindulged (perhaps innocently on Uncle Charlie's baked goods?) and didn't realize at the time - nor did he become aware of the damage he caused to himself - until awoken from his hallucinatory dreams hours later.

The perspective of the overlapping melodies would be from the voices in your head; sort of playing tug of war with your psyche. On one hand, you're startled from your dreams and you can't fully understand why? So you try reasoning with yourself…. yet nothing makes any sense. Then you get this moment of clarity and everything feels comfortable again, but remember, you over indulged (damn you, Uncle Charlie!) You're in for long night. After this internal struggle of mind over matter, you survive the ordeal, praying to never experience it again.

To pull this off musically, I had to find odd fitting chords that easily blended to make a peaceful melody. Acoustic guitars were demanded for the internal struggle. The moments of clarity would kick in the screaming riff that only a Les Paul could pull off demanding your attention. Rich did a wonderful job of helping with the lyrics and melody for this section. The ending crescendo was the blissful return to normalcy achieved with the full orchestra of the band joyously playing out to fade away.

To my surprise, this song has become one of the more popular tunes received by our fans and certainly one we enjoy playing as a band. I thank you John and Jimmy for your inspiration. For the rest of you, sit back, feed into the mellow vibe, and let your imagination run wild. I know mine did!

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



Rare Metallica Jam Footage From Lemmy's Birthday Party Goes Online
(hennemusic) Rare 1995 footage of Metallica paying tribute to Motorhead at the Whiskey A Go Go in West Hollywood, CA. has surfaced.

On December 14th, 1995, Metallica hit the stage at the famed L.A. club as The Lemmys to perform seven Motörhead covers for Lemmy's 50th birthday party.

"They all dressed up as me, and I thought that was great," Lemmy told VH1.com. "They all had long black wigs on and penciled-in mustaches, and a tattoo drawn on one arm, with a black marker. Besides, they got their tattoos on the wrong arm, too, every one of them."

Lars Ulrich told Metallica fanzine So What!: "After some initial hesitation, I also don the wig and shades (try playing Motörhead songs when you have a 3-foot black wig on and can't see sh*t!!), and as we walk towards the Whisky stage (for the first time since supporting Saxon in 1982!!) the f**kin' look on people's faces.. classic. I start 'Overkill,' immediatley swallow half the wig, but... who gives a f**k and off we go!"

The Whisky A Go Go has uploaded in-house video footage of the performance. Watch it here.




Deep Purple Release 'Hell To Pay' Lyric Video
(hennemusic) Deep Purple have released a lyric video for "Hell To Pay," one of two lead tracks from the band's forthcoming new album, "NOW What?!"

The song is featured on the double-A side single, along with "All The Time In The World." Produced by Bob Ezrin (Pink Floyd, Alice Cooper, Kiss and many others), the group's 19th studio album is Deep Purple's first since 2005's "Rapture Of The Deep."

"Now What?!" will also be released in a limited quantity with a bonus track and a bonus DVD featuring Deep Purple in conversation plus additional audio material. This edition will be available in a digipak with a cut out front cover. The project will also be released as double vinyl LP containing a bonus track, as in the limited-edition CD. Watch the lyric video here.




Asia Introduce New Guitarist In New Video Clip
(Classic Rock) Asia have officially introduced new guitarist Sam Coulson in a video clip. The 26-year-old was named as Steve Howe's replacement on the same day the founding member surprised fans by announcing his departure.

Coulson, who's already at work on Asia's next album, Valkyrie, says: "I'm very pleased to be in the band, looking forward to putting perhaps a bit of a heavier edge on some of the classic songs.

"There's definitely key songs you hear on the radio which I'm familiar with and enjoy listening to. It's been good going over the back catalogue and making myself familiar with everything else. Great band with great musicianship and catchy tunes – it's the best of both worlds."

Drummer Carl Palmer comments: "I think the band before sounded great but I think this will sound different in a good way; in a tougher way." Watch the clip here.




Mars Attacks All-Star Charity KISS Covers Project
The latest episode of the Mars Attacks podcast features an interview with Mitch Lafon who has started a Pledgemusic campaign for an all-star charity tribute album to KISS.

The album project is named "A World With Heros KISS Tribute" and is set to feature KISS covers for the band's 40th anniversary performed by members of Accept, Great White, Guns N Roses, Pantera, Kill Devil and Doro Pesch and more.

Lafon launched the campaign in honor of his father-in-law and to raise funds for a facility that cared for him during the final days of his life.

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Incubus Guitarist Recording With Pearl Jam
(Radio.com) Pearl Jam has been in the studio recording its first album of new material since 2009, and the band may have an intriguing collaboration stemming from the sessions to show for it.
Tuesday night (March 19), Mike Einziger, lead guitarist of alt-rockers Incubus, tweeted to his followers a picture of him accompanying Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder in a recording studio. According to the tweet, Einziger and Vedder were recording strings for the new Pearl Jam record.

This wouldn't be the first Einziger's traded his six-string for the string section. In 2009, he released End.>vacuum, a full orchestral composition, following surgery for Carpal Tunnel syndrome that left him unable to play his guitar during recovery. He also recorded and orchestrated strings for 30 Seconds to Mars' This is War. More including the photo.



Paul McCartney Announces Initial World Tour Dates
Paul McCartney has announced the initial dates for his "Out There!" world tour which will bring the former Beatle to places that he had never played before.

The initial dates are scheduled for June. McCartney will first visit National Stadium in Warsaw, Poland on the 22nd, his very first concert in the country.

McCartney will then play Happel Stadium in Vienna, Austria on the 27th, which will be his first concert in that city since 2003.

McCartney plans to perform songs from his entire career, including his solo music, the music of Wings and from the Beatles.




Slash Working On Music For Next Album
(hennemusic) Slash has begun working on his third solo album which is the follow up studio album to his 2012 release "Apocalyptic Love."

"Started the demo process for the next S/M & the Conspirators record last night," tweeted the guitarist on Wednesday. "Lots of material to work up. It's going 2 be good."

Like the last effort, Slash's third solo album will feature his touring band, Myles Kenndy & the Conspirators, featuring Myles Kennedy (Alter Bridge), bassist Todd Kerns and drummer Brent Fitz. more on this story




Scott Weiland Hasn't Closed The Door on Stone Temple Pilots
(hennemusic) As Scott Weiland continues his solo tour, the former Stone Temple Pilots singer says he remains open to working with the band despite recently being fired from the group.

"They've done it before, and they can do it again," Weiland tells Vindy.com. "They're good players. I respect them. Every band has issues. I just think sometimes people say things before they really think about it.

"I know that I've done that in the past. I was guilty of it with Velvet Revolver after myself and [drummer] Matt [Sorum] got into an argument backstage before an encore. That led me to say that I wasn't going to play any more shows with those guys.

"So I think that the fact this tour was doing so well was a reactionary thing on their part. But it actually isn't quite so simple."

Asked if has closed the door to ever working with STP again, the singer replies "definitely not." more on this story




Anthrax Guitarist Calls Rock Hall Lame For KISS and Deep Purple Snubs
(Radio.com) As Anthrax pay homage to some of their favorite artists with their new covers album, Anthems, guitarist Scott Ian reflects on some of the influential artists that have been snubbed by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Radio.com caught up with Ian to discuss one of the bands on the new album and others snubbed by the hall: Ian says that his bandmates are Rush fanatics and wanted to go for a deep cut: "I'm certainly a Rush fan but [Drummer] Charlie [Benante] and [bassist] Frankie [Bello] and Joey are like, Rush nerds. They know every single thing about Rush."

Anthems' release is timely, as Rush will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame next month. They've been eligible for well over a decade, and Ian says he's not surprised that they are finally getting their due. "People take Rush seriously, they're not everyone's cup of tea, but everyone has a respect for that band whether you like them or not."

Although he's quick to note that he doesn't pay too much attention to the Rock Hall, he gets a bit more passionate when talking about another band that has been ignored by the voters: "A lot people have a problem with KISS. KISS is just as important as Aerosmith and Led Zeppelin. The people who vote on these kinds of things – I don't know who these people are – I think they're the kind of people who never, ever liked KISS. If you like Alice Cooper, you should like KISS. But a lot of people didn't take them seriously as a songwriting entity. I feel like they're never gonna let KISS in, which is pretty f****** lame when you consider what they've accomplished."

He continues, "I was reading an interview with someone from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and he said that one of the main criteria to be considered into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is, what influence have they had on music? KISS has influenced bands that are already in the Hall of Fame! They're one of the most influential bands of the last forty years!"

This year marked the first time that Deep Purple made the ballot, however they didn't get the votes needed to be inducted: "How many people started playing guitar because of the riff to 'Smoke On The Water?' You can pinpoint that riff as the starting point to more guitar players than any other song in the history of rock. So it's just amazing to me that a band like Deep Purple isn't in."

Ian adds, "Nothing against my friends in Metallica, but even if you asked them… When Metallica were inducted [into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2009], James [Hetfield] name checked a bunch of bands from the stage, saying maybe you should put these bands in as well." Read more.




Black Star Riders' Debut Single Premieres Today
(Classic Rock) Classic Rock will deliver the online premiere of Black Star Riders' debut single Bound For Glory this afternoon.

Soon after it receives its first airplay on Ken Bruce's BBC Radio 2 show today Thursday, March 21, we'll be offering a streaming version of the track.

It's the first time you'll hear a full song by the band hat grew out of the recent Thin Lizzy lineup. After originally planning to record an album under Phil Lynott's name they chose Black Star Riders as their new title and laid down the record with producer Kevin Shirley earlier this year.

Frontman Ricky Warwick says of Bound For Glory: "It's a song for the lost but never lonely, walking tall in the face of everyday adversary – everyone has a story to tell, revolution begins in the mirror!" more on this story




Lamb of God Announce Spring Tour and Metal Retreat
Lamb of God will be returning to the road now that frontman Randy Blythe has been acquitted of manslaughter charges in the Czech Republic and have announced a special musical retreat as well.

The band will be launching a tour where they will visit cities they missed during the earlier touring for their latest album, Resolution.

The tour is set to kick off on May 16th Asheville, NC and the first half of the trek will feature support from Terror. The second half will feature support from The Acacia Strain. Decapitated will be supporting the entire tour.

The band will also be launching their Metal on the Mountain retreat July 15th through 19th which will take place at the Full Moon Resort in Big Indian, New York.

The retreat will be open to only 170 fans and will include a curriculum created by the band that will feature guitar and drum clinics with Mark Morton, Willie Adler, and Chris Adler.

They will also have group instruction, songwriting sessions and competitions, nightly jam sessions with the band and fans, and a Q & A.

Lamb of God will also treat fans to the premiere of their feature film ahead of the fall theatrical release and they will cap off the event with a full band concert. more on this story




Deep Purple Not Bothered By Rock Hall Snub
(hennemusic) Deep Purple were denied entry to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame this year, losing out to such artists as American pop singer-songwriter Randy Newman and R&B singer Donna Summer.

The members of Purple, who will release a new album titled "Now What?!" on April 30 in North America, say it is no big loss.

"I don't think the band really care, actually," keyboardist Don Airey tells The Straits Times. "It'd be nice but there's been no 'awwwww', no disappointment."

"The gig's the thing with this band, the next concert," he adds. "That's what it's all about and we're looking forward to Singapore."

The keyboardist would like to see the Rock Hall stay true to its brand name by placing more emphasis on rockers. more on this story




Ozzy Osbourne Loses Money On Mansion Sale
(hennemusic) Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne sold their California home for $11.5 million and managed to lose money in the process.

The Los Angeles Times reports the Osbournes initially purchased their Hidden Hills estate in 2007 for $12,388,500 according to public records.

The property was put on the market in 2011 at $12.999 million and was also listed for lease at $50,000 a month. more on this story




Tool Plan Willy Wonka Like Surprise For Five Lucky Fans
Tool will be pulling a Willy Wonka move with their upcoming special limited edition anniversary reissue of the "Opiate EP."

The band announced that they will be including five "Seal of Xatanitos" certificates in random copies of the EP and they will only disclose the prize to the lucky fans that find the "golden tickets."

The EP will be released in a various limited run of 5,000 copies total with 5 different 1,000 piece runs featuring different graphics and bonus material. They will only be sold via the band's website on March 26th.

The reissues will feature art direction by Adam Jones, illustrations by legendary artist Adi Granov and design packaging by Mackie Osborne.

The bonus material will include a new stereoscopic image from the 10,000 Days packaging for fans to use with their glasses.

The special reissue campaign marks the 21st anniversary of the release of "Opiate," which was their debut EP. more on this story




Chris Cornell Plan Pink Record Store Day Release
Chris Cornell announced that Soundgarden will have a special limited edition release for fans on Record Store Day, April 20th.

The release will feature demos from their new album, King Animal, and will be pressed on a six-track pink 10" vinyl record (they include a digital download card as well).

The band is gearing up to launch the second leg of their tour in support King Animal. The trek will kick off on May 3rd in Atlantic City, NJ and will conclude on May 28th in Broomfield, CO.

Cornell released these track details for the Record Store Day release: 1) Worse Dreams - Recorded by Chris Cornell at TNC Studios in Los Angeles, CA

2) Black Saturday - Recorded by Chris Cornell at TNC Studios in Los Angeles, CA

3) By Crooked Steps - Recorded at Deke River Studio in Seattle, WA by Josh Evans and at TNC Studios in Los Angeles, CA by Chris Cornell

4) Halfway There - Recorded by Chris Cornell at TNC Studios in Los Angeles, CA

5) Bones Of Birds - Recorded by Chris Cornell at TNC Studios in Los Angeles, CA

6) A Thousand Days Before - Recorded by Soundgarden at Deek River Studio and Chris Cornell at TNC Studios in Los Angeles, CA more on this story





Beatles' John Lennon and George Harrison Honored In London
(Gibson) The Beatles' John Lennon and George Harrison have received a Blue Plaque in London. The commemoration was at 94 Baker Street, the site of the Apple Boutique clothing shop, which was owned in the 1960s by the band's company Apple Corps Ltd.

A plaque to Lennon was already on the site, but has now been replaced with one that also remembers Harrison, who died in 2001.

The plaque was unveiled by Rod Davis, the banjo player in Lennon's first band, The Quarrymen, who formed in 1956 and would later become The Silver Beatles, then The Beatles.

Blue Plaques on historically-significant buildings are awarded by the cultural organization English Heritage. But English Heritage only honor people who have died, which is why Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr do not feature. more on this story







Don Was Discusses Love For Levon
(Radio.com) Back in October, a unprecedented group of artists came together to pay tribute to the late Levon Helm for one night only at New Jersey's Izod Center. Gregg Allman and Warren Haynes from The Allman Brothers Band, Joe Walsh from The Eagles, country stars Dierks Bentley and Eric Church, John Mayer, and Pink Floyd mastermind Roger Waters all played songs that Helm performed, both as a member of The Band and and on his final solo albums, 2007′s Dirt Farmer and 2009′s Electric Dirt.

Radio.com spoke to the event's co-musical director, Don Was, about Love For Levon, which was later released on CD, DVD and BluRay. Was has produced all of the Rolling Stones' albums for two decades, and has helmed sessions for Bob Dylan, Bonnie Raitt, Elton John and Ringo Starr, just to name a few. But he said that the Love For Levon show was one of the highlights of his career.

"The whole experience of being involved in the organization of, and the rehearsals, and the show, was a beautiful experience," Was said. "It's something – if you get four or five of those in the course of a lifetime, you're doing well. That was definitely one of those nights: it was a life-altering and life-affirming thing. It sounds like bull**** but it's really true. The whole was greater than the sum of the parts, and the sum of the parts was pretty spectacular."

The show (and the live releases) raised funds for Helm's family, to help them to maintain the Levon Helm Studio in Woodstock, N.Y., and continue the series of Midnight Ramble Sessions concerts there. That iconic spot was where Was and musical co-director Larry Campbell, a long-time member of Helm's band, held rehearsals. more on this story






Eddie Kramer Discusses Jimi Hendrix's Legacy in TV Interview
(hennemusic) Legendary producer Eddie Kramer talks about the musical legacy of Jimi Hendrix in a new interview with NBC Nightly News.

Kramer co-produced the new release, "People, Hell & Angels," along with Experience Hendrix CEO Janie Hendrix and John McDermott. Kramer first met Hendrix at Olympic Studios in London in January 1967.

"From middle 1968 to the end of '69, Jimi's in the studio experimenting, rehearsing," says Kramer. "By the way, Jimi used the studio as his rehearsal space; very expensive, but thank goodness the tape was running all the time because we captured all these performances."

"He was developing a certain sound which is one of the reasons why we put this record together. It showed this transition from the Jimi Hendrix Experience into another realm," Kramer continued. "He was so adept at taking contemporary music, whether it was jazz, or rock or pop or RnB, and combining it into his own style." Watch the interview here.




Singled Out: Empty Pools
Today Leah Pritchard from Empty Pools tells us about their brand new single "Small Talk". Here is the story:

The lyrics for about half of the songs we've made so far were written while I was living on a mattress on the living room floor some friends kindly let me crash on for a while. The place was being bought and refurbished last year so the landlord was loading the entire contents of the house into a van to go the dump as we left - it's sad to think future generations of 20-somethings won't get to see the stacks of weird 70s porn that were hidden in the cupboards. And that children might be raised in that house. I'm so grateful to those friends but it's not the easiest position to be in, not having somewhere you can comfortably call home. Your bed is your desk is your dining table, you live out of your suitcase, there's always noise so you don't really read and people are constantly coming and going so it's difficult to have any semblance of routine.

At the same time, I'd had a lot of different jobs and I'd spent some time at university so I'd met a lot of people who had become anything from best friends to strangers. It just felt like so many things were so temporary or useless and there was this bit in 'Anagrams' by Lorrie Moore - "I could not be enough of the world for him. A woman could never be enough of the world, I thought, though that was what a man desired of her, though she flap her arms frantically trying." - that I kept going back to. I thought it was a perfect way to explain why some things stick and some don't, that people and jobs and hobbies don't have to be the whole world to you, but they have to be enough.

It formed the first line of what became 'Small Talk', which is about all of the above. It's about living on the surface and committing to nothing, where everything feels like small talk and there's no conversation. It's an easy way to live in a sense because you're not responsible for anything, but at the same time I think you can only sustain that for a little while.

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



Tony Iommi Lonely Planet Video Released
(hennemusic) The video for "Lonely Planet," the Armenian Eurovision song entry written by Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi, has been released.

Iommi wrote the music and Vardan Zadoyan penned the lyrics for the track, which will be performed by the band Dorians at the Eurovision final on May 16 in Malmö, Sweden.

Each year, member countries submit songs to be performed live on television and radio and then votes are cast to determine the most popular track in the competition.

"I was surprised when it made the shortlist and gobsmacked when the people of Armenia voted for it," said the guitarist. "With a little luck, who knows, it might win." more on this story




Iron Maiden's Bruce Dickinson Delivers Keynote Address
(hennemusic) Iron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson delivered the keynote address at the Connect2Business 2013 conference in Stockholm, Sweden on Tuesday. Video of some of Dickinson's speech has surfaced.

Last year, the singer announced the launch of Cardiff Aviation, his major commercial airline maintenance repair and overhaul operation in South Wales.

The business is based at the Twin Peaks hangar at St Athan in the Vale of Glamorgan.

A licensed pilot, Dickinson has flown for commercial airlines in addition to flying Maiden around the world in the band's customized Boeing 757 called Ed Force One. Watch video from speech here.




Alex Lifeson Reflects On Darker Times for Rush
(Gibson) With their successful Clockwork Angels tour well underway, Alex Lifeson of Rush recently told Guitar World magazine that things were not always so upbeat.

When recalling the band's Caress of Steel tour he said, "We were already extremely in debt, and it was just getting worse and worse. The crowds were getting smaller and there didn't seem to be much interest in the album at the time. Everybody around was concerned about what the future was going to be. So there was a lot of reflection. I thought, Well, you know, I guess I could be a plumber again if I had to…"

The band persevered despite the dwindling support. Eventually, they struck a production deal with Mercury label and the band itself became "responsible for delivering the record, the artwork — everything — in its completed form. It was really up to us. But they [Mercury] did lament the fact that we seemed to no longer have the same interests as we had initially. And they were concerned about that. Of course they were concerned about that—they had invested a lot of money and time and effort in us. And they wanted only what was best for the band, which was for us to make them a lot of money! And that's fine. They're a business and that's what they do. I get it. That's okay. Truthfully, I think it lit a fire under us."

The album delivered, of course, was the groundbreaking conceptual epic, 2112. Fans responded positively to the music and lyrics, garnering the band larger and larger audiences at time when the fate of the band was at stake. The rest is history. more on this story






Richie Sambora Challenges Fans To Cover His Song
Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora has issued a challenge to fans to cover a track from his latest solo album and post the video online for a chance to win a signature guitar.

Sambora is inviting fans to submit videos of their cover of the song "Every Road Leads Home To You" from his solo album "Aftermath of the Lowdown."

His camp says it doesn't have to be a rock version either, fans can a'cappella, beatbox to it, or whatever they choose. Sambora has released a video explaining the contest here.

Sambora will select his favorite cover version and giving the fan an ESP LTD SA-2 Richie Sambora Signature Electric Guitar, personally autographed to them.

To submit a cover video, fans should post it as a video response to the contest announcement video by Friday, April 19th. Winner will be announced that Monday, April 22nd.




Wolf People Release All Return Video
(Classic Rock) Wolf People, who were among the Best New Band nominees in the 2011 Classic Rock Roll Of Honour, have released a video for their current single All Returns.

Shot in their rehearsal space in Caledonian Road, London, the video features Wolf People in performance mode. Says director Phil Poole: "Our main objective for the video was to display the band in its purest form, capturing abstract pieces of performance played out in their stark rehearsal space. Seeing the music played out in this bare, natural state allowed the song to dominate and remain the focus throughout."

All Returns comes from Wolf People's upcoming album Fain, due on sale April 29. The lupine psych rockers have just announced an extensive UK/European tour.

HEART/JASON BONHAM EXPERIENCE TOUR DATES:

Heart's 2013 tour dates are in - they are as follows. Show apparently features an additional 30 minute Led Zeppelin set at the end.

June 17 West Palm Beach, Fla., Cruzan Amphitheater
June 18 Tampa, Fla, Live Nation Amphitheater
June 20 Atlanta, Chastain Park Amphitheater
June 21 Charlotte, N.C., Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
June 22 Raleigh, N.C., Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion
June 24 Virginia Beach, VA Farm Bureau Live
June 25 Washington, D.C., Jiffy Lube Live
June 27 Wantagh, N.Y., Nikon at Jones Beach Theater
June 28 Boston, Comcast Center – Mansfield
June 29 Bethel, N.Y., Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
July 2 Holmdel, N.J., PNC Bank Arts Center
July 3 Philadelphia, Susquehanna Bank Center – Camden
July 4 Uncasville, Conn., Mohegan Sun Arena
July 19 Detroit, DTE Energy Music Theater
July 21 Pittsburgh, First Niagara Pavilion – Burgettstown
July 22 Cleveland, Blossom Music Center
July 27 Cincinnati, Riverbend Music Center
July 29 Chicago, Ravinia Festival
July 30 Indianapolis, Klipsch Music Center
Aug. 1 West Allis, Wisc., Wisconsin State Fair
Aug. 14 Houston, Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Aug. 15 Dallas, Gexa Energy Pavilion
Aug. 17 St. Louis, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
Aug. 18 Kansas City, Mo.,Starlight Theater
Aug. 20 Denver, Fiddler's Green Amphitheater
Aug. 22-23 Los Angeles, Greek Theater
Aug. 24 Indio, Calif., Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
Aug. 26 San Diego, Open Air Theater
Aug. 28 San Francisco, America's Cup Pavilion
Aug. 30 Portland, Ore., Sleep Country Amphitheater

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Eddie Van Halen Jumps Into LL Cool J Collaboration
(hennemusic) LL Cool J has confirmed that Eddie Van Halen is among the guests set to appear on his forthcoming album, "Authentic."
Fan site the Van Halen News Desk reports the rapper revealed the news at his SXSW concert Thursday night in Austin, TX.

The site confirms the guitarist will appear on one track on "Authentic," which will be released April 30.

The update follows two recent photos posted by Van Halen, featuring the pair in the studio. more on this story




Def Leppard Recording Vegas Show For Live Release
(hennemusic) Def Leppard guitarist Phil Collen says the band will be recording their upcoming "VIVA Hysteria!" residency at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas for a live album release.

"Absolutely, we are going to do Hysteria Live," Collen tells Classic Rock Revisited. Leppard will perform 11 shows between March 22 and April 13.

"We are going to do 'Hysteria' from start to finish," explains the guitarist. "We are actually doing two sets; we are going to open up for ourselves. We are going to do 45 minutes, take a break and then do 'Hysteria'. We are learning hundreds of songs and we are going to be doing songs that we've not played in years, or that we've never done. It is going to be really great."

"The first set will never be the same; we will change it every night," adds Collen. "They will all be Def Leppard songs. We may play songs that we've covered of other people. more on this story




Joe Walsh, Mick Jagger, Jeff Beck, Ringo Involved In Mystery Project
(Gibson) Joe Walsh is working with Mick Jagger, Ringo Starr, Keb Mo', Jeff Beck bassist Tal Wilkenfeld and more. On what, exactly, Walsh isn't yet saying but he's posted a Facebook photo of him and the others, simply saying: "Cooking up something here at Capitol Records. I think you'll like it."

Also in the photo are producer Don Was, keyboardist Mike Finnegan, and legendary drummer Jim Keltner. Walsh has also posted a photo of himself with legendary soul singer/songwriter Bill Withers.

Bassist Wilkenfeld has provided the strongest clue this a serious new project. She posted, "Thursdays in the office are usually pretty mellow. Like today… when I wrote a song with Bill Withers, Mick Jagger, Keb Mo & Joe Walsh. LOL." See the photo here.





Thin Lizzy R.I.P.
(hennemusic) Thin Lizzy are moving forward as Black Star Riders after their final concert at Virgin Australia Stadium in Mackay, Australia this past Saturday, as the opening act on the KISS/Motley Crue tour.

After touring the past few years as Thin Lizzy, the lineup adopted the new band name last fall to start recording a new album with a clean slate, and out of respect to the legacy of the late Phil Lynott.

"Tomorrow is the last show that Thin Lizzy will be playing for quite some time," posted singer Ricky Warwick on Friday before the show.

"I would like to take this opportunity to say from the bottom of my heart how much of a privilege, honor and dream come true this experience has been. To have spent the last 3 years being part of such a fantastic legacy has been amazing. I would like to thank Darren Wharton and Brian Downey for their musicianship and friendship and wish them all the best in all their future endeavors. I would to thank all of you out there for your past and continued support. And of course Mr. Phil Lynott for letting me stand beside your shoes, you have taught me so much." more on this story




Green Day Singer Writing Music For Shakespeare Play
(Gibson) Billie Joe Armstrong is adding a punk yet Beatle-esque twist to the England's Elizabethan era – he is writing songs for a modernized version of the William Shakespeare play Much Ado About Nothing.

The Green Day guitarist and frontman will compose original material for a 2014 production by the Yale Repertory Theatre, New Haven, Connecticut.

Due in March 2014, These Paper Bullets will take Shakespeare's play and reimagine it in modern England. The Yale Rep say of the production: "Meet the Quartos. Ben, Claude, Balth, and Pedro. Their fans worship them. Scotland Yard fears them. And their former drummer will stop at nothing to destroy them.

"Can these fab four from Liverpool find true love in London and cut an album in seven nights? These Paper Bullets is a rocking and rolling version of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing with a serious backbeat." more on this story






Heart and Jason Bonham To Team Up For Led Zeppelin Set On Tour
The upcoming Heart and Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience tour will feature an encore set of both bands teaming up to perform Led Zeppelin classics.

Each band will be performing their own sets before they team up for a 30-minute encore Led Zeppelin tribute set, according to USA Today.

The tour will be kicking off on June 17th in West Palm Beach, Florida and is set to conclude on August 30th in Portland, Oregon. more on this story




KISS Unplug For Australian Fans
(hennemusic) KISS wrapped up their Australian tour with Motley Crue and Thin Lizzy on Saturday in Mackay.

Prior to the tour's final concert, KISS unplugged for their pre-show meet n greet; video of the band running through their 1974 classic, "Cold Gin," has surfaced.

The trip down under, in support of the group's latest album, "Monster," was KISS' first in five years. Watch the clip here.




The Airborne Toxic Event To Rock Letterman and Launch Video Series
The Airborne Toxic Event will be performing on The Late Show With David Letterman this Wednesday, March 20. The show airs at 11:35 pm/10:35 pm central.

The band will be appearing in support of their new EP, The Secret, which hit stores last week. The EP gives fans a preview of the band's new material ahead of the release of their third album, Such Hot Blood, which is coming out this spring.

The group also launched a new series of acoustic videos which they will be releasing in advance of the album's release. The first video in the series is an unplugged version of their single "Timeless," which features the Calder Quartet. Watch it here.

Fans can catch the band on the road this spring. They are kicking off their North American headline tour on March 30th in San Diego.

The trek will feature an appearance at the Coachella festival on April 14th and April 21st. more on this story




Former Whitesnake Guitarist Reacts To David Coverdale Claim
(Classic Rock) Former Whitesnake guitarist Micky Moody has responded to David Coverdale's claim that he refused an opportunity to shake hands.

The former bandmates parted company in 1983 following the recording and touring of Whitesnake's Slide It In album. Coverdale recently said he'd tried to make contact with Moody to settle their differences, but the guitarist "feels there's too much water under the bridge, and presumably he would rather not shake my hand."

Now Moody has responded to the comments. He tells Classic Rock: "I've just been alerted to an article on Classic Rock's news page which reads 'Micky Moody won't shake my hand.' Although it pales into insignificance when placed alongside Ozzy's 'I bit the head of a bat' show-stopper, I feel I should respond that I have my own reasons for not wishing to re-establish a working relationship.

"To set the record straight, the reporting of comments regarding my return to Whitesnake in 1983 are somewhat inaccurate.

"Beyond this, I prefer not to discuss in the public domain – although, for avoidance of any doubt, my time with Whitesnake and the legacy of those halcyon days are forever part of my very soul. I also prefer, as always, to let my fingers do the talking; as experience has taught me that it's the proper and most dignified way to do things." more.. You can read the article which prompted this response here.



Dio Disciples Guitarist Explains Money Isn't Motivation For Project
(Classic Rock) Craig Goldy insists the Dio Disciples project isn't all about money and says he can prove it. The guitarist is part of the tribute act to the late Ronnie James Dio after having been a member of the Dio band for three stints starting with 1987′s Dream Evil era.

Dio Disciples, also featuring Tim 'Ripper' Owens, Scott Warren, Simon Wright, Bjorn Englen and Oni Logan, were formed in 2011 with the blessing of the ex Black Sabbath singer's widow Wendy.

Asked what he thinks of fans who disapprove of the project, Goldy tells GuitarWorld: "I understand it. Ronnie was so revered that there are going to be people who are apprehensive of what we're doing."

He continues: "It's really not a for-profit thing. If people think it's a for-profit thing, I have no problem with them checking my bank account balance. We're barely squeaking by over our expenses. It's very expensive to do this kind of thing.

"There is money involved, but money is not the priority. The priority is to make sure Ronnie's memory is kept alive." And Goldy believes the positive intentions shine through




Dan Reed Network Announce One-Off Show
(Classic Rock) Dan Reed has confirmed that Dan Reed Network will play a one-off show near London later this year.

They'll appear at the inaugural single-day Enchanted Festival, a music, poetry and visual art event at Greenwoods Hotel And Spa, Stock, Essex, on October 12. Just 450 tickets will be available.

It follows the Network's reunion for a single performance in their home city of Portland, Oregan, last New Year – but the outfit, best known for tracks Ritual and Rainbow Child, aim to make more appearances in 2014. more on this story




Guns N' Roses Add Working Beer Tap To Stage Set
(hennemusic) Guns N' Roses kicked off their St. Patrick's Day celebrations a day early during the band's concert in Melbourne Saturday night.

In new photos posted by the group, the band were enjoying the luxury of pouring themselves beverages from a beer tap right on stage.

"Well that's one for you but two for me cause tonight!," wrote the band. "We're rocking the Sidney Myer Music Bowl with some ice cold beer on tap off the riser! bottoms up! Mr. Diaz, Thank you for your support can we have another round." See the photo here.





Reef Launching Anniversary Tour
(Classic Rock) Reef have announced a five-date tour of the UK to mark their 20th anniversary. They'll play Glasgow, Birmingham, Manchester, Truro and London during November, following two festival appearances in August.

Gary Stringer, Kenwyn House, Jack Bessant and Dominic Greensmith officially drew a line under their career together with fifth album Together in 2003. Last year they released a retrospective box set, 93/03, and played a number of shows to support it.

Now they say in a brief statement: "Reef are absolutely stoked to announce a uk tour this November to help celebrate the band's 20th anniversary." more on this story





Metallica Looking For Orion Festival Car Show Contestants
(hennemusic) Metallica's second annual Orion Music + More festival are now accepting entries for the car show portion of the event which will be taking place at Belle Isle in Detroit on June 8-9.

As part of the event, 100 of the best Customs, Hot Rods, Muscle Cars and Custom Motorcycles will be on display again this year at the Orion Custom Car + Motorcycle Show inside the festival grounds throughout the entire weekend.

For those wishing to participate, the 2013 Orion Music + More Custom Car + Motorcycle show application is now live.

Awards will be given for Best in Show in each category: Customs, Hot Rods, Muscle Cars, and Custom Motorcycles. Plus, festival-goers were also able to cast their votes for the Fan Favorite. more on this story




Bam Margera Arrest Photo Reportedly Staged
(Banana 101.5) Bam Margera's F-face Unstoppable had a tour stop at The Machine Shop in Flint last Thursday (March 14th), but many are wondering what's up with this picture of, what appears to be, him being taken into custody by Michigan State Police in front of the venue that was posted on Bam's Facebook page.

Apparently this photo is not what it appears. Yes, it is Bam Margera being cuffed by Michigan State Police in front of what is clearly The Machine Shop. However, we have confirmed that the photo was taken Thursday prior to his show that did, in fact, take place as planned.

Had he actually been arrested that would likely not have been the case. We're told that when Bam saw that the state police were on hand, he took advantage of a rare photo op. See the photo here.





Anthrax Release Smokin' Boston Cover
(Classic Rock) Anthrax have released their cover version of Boston track Smokin'. It's taken from their covers EP Anthems, which also includes tracks originally recorded by Rush, Thin Lizzy, AC/DC, Cheap Trick and Journey.

Smokin' includes a keyboard solo by Fred Mandel after drummer Charlie Benante admitted none of the band could play the instrument well enough.

He recently told Music Radar: "You'll always hear Boston blasting out of our dressing rooms or our bus. It's one of those timeless records that doesn't have a bad track on it. It's almost like a greatest-hits album. When I hear it, I think back to being young, it's the summertime, and people are driving by in their cars crankin' Boston." Listen to the song here.





The New Black Turned Into Puppets For Sharkpool Video
(Classic Rock) The New Black have released a music video for their track Sharkpool and you can stream the clip online.

The puppet-show promo supports the German hard rock act's third album, III: Cut Loose, which was released last week.

Describing their sound and vibe, the band say: "Just imagine Black Label Society inviting the Nickelback guy over for some Thin Lizzy covers, all dressed in Pantera shirts."

Of the new video they say: "Yes, we look like that. Just add water." Watch the video here.





Megadeth Release Latest Vic's Garage Video
(hennemusic) Megadeth have release another studio video from the making of their forthcoming new album, "Super Collider."

The latest clip features Dave Mustaine and Chris Broderick recording tracks at Vic's Garage studio in San Marcos, California during mid-February.

Megadeth finished recording the project on March 13, with Mustaine tweeting, "More 13 weirdness…we finished the record on 31313. 13 of 14 songs used; song 13 left off. It was 13 years since we tracked Silent Scorn." [Horn player Bob Findley played on the track "Silent Scorn" from 2001's "The World Needs A Hero" and is a featured guest on the song "A House Divided" on the new album]. Watch the clip here.





Good Vibrations Movie Preview
(Classic Rock) Classic Rock is proud to premiere a clip of upcoming music movie Good Vibrations and you can watch it online.

The film is based on the true story of Terri Hooley, owner of Belfast's Good Vibrations record shop, during Ireland's strife-torn era known as the Troubles. Galvanising the city's punk musicians into action, Hooley becomes the unlikely leader of a motley band of kids who join him in his mission to create a new community, an Alternative Ulster, to bring his city back to life.

It stars Richard Dormer (Hurricane) as Hooley and and Kerr Logan (Game Of Thrones) as Feargal Sharkey. Co-stars include Liam Cunningham (The Guard, Clash of The Titans), Adrian Dunbar (Ashes to Ashes), Dylan Moran (Run Fatboy Run, Sean of the Dead) and Andrew Simpson (Notes on a Scandal).

In the clip, a drunk Hooley introduced himself to a young band who have just changed his life – and vows to change even further.