Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Van Halen Streaming Two Songs From Forthcoming Album
(hennemusic) Van Halen have released streams of "Runnin' With The Devil" and "Panama" as a preview to the upcoming release of "Tokyo Dome Live In Concert", their first-ever live album with original frontman David Lee Roth.

Due March 31, the project features the band recorded live at the Japanese venue on June 21, 2013 as part of their tour in support of 2012's "A Different Kind Of Truth."

The package will be available as a double CD, four-LP set on 180-gram vinyl, and digitally. A deluxe collection featuring "Tokyo Dome Live In Concert" and newly remastered versions of their groundbreaking 1978 debut, "Van Halen", and their 6th album, "1984", will also be available as both a four-CD set and a six-LP vinyl set in special packaging.





Scott Weiland Previews More New Songs
(hennemusic) Scott Weiland And The Wildabouts have released a new video preview of "White Lightning" and "Circles", two songs from their forthcoming debut album, "Blaster."

Due March 31, the 12-track set was produced by Rick Parker (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club) and recorded at Weiland's Lavish Studios and the Sandbox in Los Angeles.

Last week, the band debuted the video for "Modzilla" from the forthcoming album. The group is currently on the road playing shows on a spring US tour. Check out the new preview video here.




Metallica Reveal 'No Life 'til Leather' Reissue Details
As we previously reported, Metallica will be releasing a limited edition cassette tape of their original 1982 demo "No Life 'til Leather" during this year's Record Store Day on April 18th but we now learn more details and that the band has additional release plans.

The band had this to say about the reissue, "This year we decided to celebrate Record Store Day with our friends at independent retail by taking a huge leap back in time to our humble beginnings with that little rectangle of plastic known as the "demo tape."

"In 1982 we recorded seven songs that became our initial calling card known as No Life 'til Leather and it led us to our first record deal . . . the rest, as you some of you may know, is history! We hope you enjoy this little walk down memory lane with us and that you will continue to join us in supporting independent record stores around the world."

The band's camp also sent over the following additional information: "The seven tracks were recorded on July 6, 1982 at Chateau East Studio in Tustin, CA by the band's original lineup of James Hetfield: lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Lars Ulrich: drums, Dave Mustaine: lead guitar, and Ron McGovney: bass.

"Straight from the archives, the original source material has been re-mastered to maximize the sound potential for 2015 without altering the original mixes. No Life 'til Leather will be available for purchase at your favorite local record store and on Metallica.Com. The collection has never been available commercially until now."

The band plans to follow up the Record Store Day special release this summer with the release of expanded versions on CD, vinyl and a collector's set.



The White Stripes Announce Special Record Store Day Release
Third Man Records have announced that they will be celebrating this year's Record Story day with a special 10th anniversary edition of The White Stripes' "Get Behind Me Satan."

The limited edition vinyl reissue will feature a double LP with one red vinyl disc and one white vinyl disc, which will be housed in a full-size gatefold lenticular jacket.

It will also feature newly created inner artwork that reprises the themes of the original promo version of the album. In addition to the vinyl, the release will come with a download code.

The label has released a promote teaser video for the release that you can watch here. This will mark the first time that the album will be released commercially on vinyl.

This special edition will only be available on Record Store Day, April 18th, at Third Man Records and participating record stores. The label also plans to release a standard black vinyl version of the album, with the standard artwork, sometime later this year. Check out the special edition tracklisting here.




Tremonti Preview New Songs and Reveal Album Details
(hennemusic) Tremonti, led by Alter Bridge/Creed guitarist Mark Tremonti, have confirmed their second album will be titled "Cauterize" and be released in May and they have released a preview of several tracks.

The band revealed the title and tracklist in a new video announcing the project, following the recent release of previews for five songs from the record, including "Another Heart", "Sympathy", "Providence", "Flying Monkeys" and the title song.

The follow-up to 2012's "All I Was" was produced by Michael "Elvis" Baskette (Alter Bridge, Slash). The side project of the Alter Bridge guitarist now features bassist Wolfgang Van Halen, who joined the group at the start of their fall 2012 tour - on 24 hours notice - to fill in for Brian Marshall, who had to pull out for undisclosed personal reasons.




The Reasoning Reveal They Have Broken Up
(Prog) The Reasoning have split up after 10 years together, they've confirmed. Rachel Cohen and co report that they're separating on friendly terms. Their decision comes almost exactly three years after guitarist Owain Roberts disappeared in Cardigan, Wales, and hasn't been seen since.

The Reasoning say in a statement: "We part in the knowledge that we have achieved many wonderful and great things as a band and individuals. But the time has come to be honest and realise that, as a musical group, we have explored as much as we can.

"Though we have enjoyed our journey with you immensely, we have also had occasions where it seemed so tough to carry on. As we approach the third anniversary of the disappearance of our dear friend Owain, this seems like the right time to gently put the band to bed." Read more here.



Grateful Dead Reunion Tickets Going For Up To $10K
(Classic Rock) Tickets for the Grateful Dead's upcoming three-night reunion at Chicago's Soldier Field have reached as high as $10,000. The tickets are being sold on StubHub - and one anonymous agent reports he's never seen prices so high for a music event.

The four surviving members Mickey Hart, Bill Kreutzmann, Phil Lesh and Bob Weir will take to the stage on July 3,4 and 5 - 20 years after the death of frontman Jerry Garcia to celebrate the group's 50th anniversary.

They attempted to bypass scalpers by implementing a mail order pre-sale for the shows. But according to Stereogum, Chicago Bears season ticket holders - who watch the American Football team at the stadium - were given first option on securing places. It's thought many of them are now responsible for pushing up the prices. Read more here.




Foo Fighters' Nate Mendel Streams New Solo Album
(Radio.com) Foo Fighters' Nate Mendel is streaming his debut solo album under the name Lieutenant, titled If I Kill This Thing We're All Going To Eat For A Week, in advance of the album's March 9 release.

Having played with Foo Fighters since the band's inception in 1995, and indie band Sunny Day Real Estate before that, it hasn't been easy for Mendel to carve out the time to record his own personal music.

"There's never a right time!" he told NME. 'Schedules are always packed. There are always other commitments. So it was important I just bit the bullet and did this. Or maybe I never would."

That said, according to the bassist, his Foo Fighters bandmates have been "crazily supportive" of his solo venture. It's the second release in just a few months for Mendel; the Foos' Sonic Highways arrived in November.





Shooter Jennings Recruits Marilyn Manson For New Tribute Album
(Classic Rock) Shooter Jennings has revealed he's working on a tribute album to dance music pioneer Giorgio Moroder. He says the results - which feature guest star Marilyn Manson - have a vibe like Queens Of The Stone Age.

Italian producer, DJ and performer Moroder is credited as being the driving force behind the disco movement in the 70s, producing tracks for Donna Summer, The Three Degrees, Bonnie Tyler and Sparks.

And Jennings reveals while the album covers tracks made famous due to Moroder's influence, he's recording them in a completely different style.

He tells Classic Rock: "It's an all-live band but we're doing all Giorgio tunes - stuff from 1977's From Here To Eternity and things like that. To me it sounds like Queens Of The Stone Age when you have a live band doing all his stuff.

"We have fiddle and all kinds of interesting instruments involved. I think Classic Rock's audience will like the record because I'm not doing an electronic dance music thing - it's very much a live performance format."

Manson lends his vocals to David Bowie's track "Cat People (Putting Out The Fire)," co-written by Moroder for the 1982 Nastassja Kinski film Cat People. Bowie re-recorded it for his hit "Let's Dance" album. Read more here.




Led Zeppelin's Physical Graffiti Reissue Goes Top 10 In UK
(hennemusic) The expanded reissue of Led Zeppelin's 1975 album, "Physical Graffiti", has debuted at No. 6 on the UK charts. The Official Charts Company reports the project sold 14,000 in its opening week for the Top 10 showing after topping the chart mid-week with strong early sales.

Sam Smith claimed No. 1 on the first UK chart to include audio streaming of albums from services such as Spotify, Deezer, Google Play, Napster, O2 Tracks, Xbox Music, Rdio and Rara.

Audio streams were added to the UK's Official Singles Chart in July 2014 - and streams have been added to the Official Albums Chart using a similar methodology. Read more here.



Dillinger Escape Plan Frontman Says Killer Be Killed Will Tour
(TeamRock Radio) Supergroup Killer Be Killed will tour following their triumphant debut performances at Australia's Soundwave festival, says The Dillinger Escape Plan frontman Greg Puciato.

Puciato loved every second of his first time playing alongside Max Cavalera, Mastodon's Troy Sanders and Ben Koller of Converge. So they aim to perform again towards the end of 2015 - although they're not sure where the shows will take place.

He tells The Metal Hammer Magazine Show at Soundwave the members took time to compare schedules before they went their separate ways. Puciato reports: "We figured out we're all free October and November.

"We want to go back to Australia, go to New Zealand, see if we can go to the UK, look at Brazil, Mexico… We can't do all that, so we're going to send an email to our agent and say, 'Figure out how to make as many of them happen as possible.'" He also discussed the excitement of their first performance. Read about that here.


David Silveria Made 'Impassioned Plea' To Rejoin Korn
(TeamRock Radio) Former Korn drummer David Silveria says he sent an "impassioned plea" by video message in 2013, asking his bandmates to let him rejoin. It's part of his argument in the lawsuit he's launched against his former colleagues, asserting that his departure in 2006 was temporary and he always planned to return.

The legal action was confirmed last week, after Silveria spoke out in 2014, arguing it was "wrong" for Korn to celebrate their 20th anniversary by touring their debut album in his absence.

Papers filed at the Superior Court Of The State Of California say: "In or around December 2006, Silveria informed his business partners that he would be taking a temporary hiatus from the band. Silveria always intended on returning - and under no circumstances did he relinquish his ownership interests in the Korn Partnership.

"In or around the summer of 2013, primed and ready to make music once again, Silveria reached out to James Shaffer, Reginald Arvizu, Jonathan Davis and Brian Welch, via video message, expressing his desire to return to the band in order to reunite all founding members of Korn, and to set aside any grudges that may have existed in the past.

"Despite Silveria's impassioned plea, the Korn band members informed Silveria that while they appreciated his gesture, they would not allow him to return to the band." Read more here.



Helloween Blend Their 80s and Modern Sounds On New Album
(Classic Rock) Helloween say their upcoming album My God-Given Right has a "friendly" feel and takes elements from their 80s' era. The record will be released on June 1 after the band inked a new deal with Nuclear Blast - the label who issued 2000's The Dark Ride and 2003's Rabbit Don't Come Easy.

And guitarist and founding member Michael Weikath says they didn't spend too much time coming up with a concept for the album, deciding instead to concentrate on the music with producer Charlie Bauerfeind.

Speaking of their 14th album, he tells Rock Overdose: "It's more open to the public. I wouldn't say commercial, it's more friendly. That was also what Charlie wanted to do - it's typical of '80s Helloween and modern Helloween at the same time." Read more here.




Doro Pesch Planning Big Live Package
(Classic Rock) Doro Pesch says she's currently working on a live album and DVD package which she plans to release later this year. It's being brought out to mark her 30th anniversary in the music business - and she reveals the writing process for the follow-up to 2012's Raise Your Fists is well under way.

She tells Metallife: "We're in the middle of songwriting - we've got some great, ass-kicking ideas already. And we are doing the production for the DVD and we filmed all over the world.

"We started with the Wacken festival, which looks awesome, and then we did a couple of things in my hometown of Dusseldorf and also in New York. It will come out in autumn and will be a big package - two DVDs and one live album." Read more here.




28 Seconds At A Rock Concert Could Damage Hearing?
(Classic Rock) The World Health Organization has warned that 28 seconds at a rock concert could damage hearing - and recommended that people should use earphones for just an hour a day.

WHO believe 1.1 billion people are at risk of suffering permanent ear problems through their listening habits - and that over 43 million people between the age of 12 and 35 are already living with hearing loss.

The health body says in a report: "The emerging pattern of listening regularly at high volume and for a long duration poses a serious threat. While it is important to keep the volume down, limiting the use of personal audio devices to less than one hour a day would do much to reduce noise exposure."

They also urge the public to limit device volumes to 60% full output, take listening breaks while in noisy venues like concert halls and pubs, and to use earplugs. Read more here.



Michael Schenker's Temple Of Rock Releases New Video
(Classic Rock) Michael Schenker's Temple Of Rock have released a video for Live And Let Live, taken from the band's album Spirit On A Mission, which will be released on March 23rd.

"After the Bridge The Gap Japan Tour in March 2014, I started to put new material together for what was to become the Spirit On A Mission album," says Schenker. "I went to the recording studio in June 2014 to put down the song arrangements and we finished recording in November.

"I already knew ahead of time that I wanted to take Spirit On A Mission to the next level by adding more 7-string guitar on some songs to get more of the low heavy sound, and on other songs to keep it very fast and energetic with melodic vocals and a couple of mid tempo's with more of my writing like in my UFO days."




Fleetwood Mac Feels Complete Again
(Classic Rock) Fleetwood Mac mainman Lindsey Buckingham says having keyboardist Christine McVie back in the fold makes them a more 'complete' band. And he reveals that although they worked well together as a four-piece when McVie left 17 years ago, they're in a better place with her back in the lineup.

He tells Austin 360: "When she left, we took a little bit of time off and then went in the studio to make an album back in 2003. And we've done a number of successful tours, business wise and I'd say artistically as a four-piece.

"The only difference, really, is that Stevie Nicks is sort of at one end of the spectrum. She's representing one pole, I'm representing the other end of that, and Christine is somewhere in the middle.

"So I think that the body of work speaks more eloquently. With her inclusion in it and her songs in there, suddenly you've got a more complete landscape. And I think her songs help inform my songs and Stevie's." here.




Special Johnny Winter Vinyl Release For Record Store Day
(The Blues Alligator Records have confirmed the launch of a Johnny Winter special for Record Store Day on April 18. The annual event seeks to offer additional reasons to visit independent retail outlets on the big day.

It's My Life, Baby - The Best Of The Alligator Records Years is a vinyl album containing material recorded by the later Winter during his two years with the label.

They say: "Upon joining the family in 1984, he wanted to record nothing but authentic, deep blues. Guitar Slinger, his Alligator debut, was widely hailed as his best and bluesiest album ever. The next year, he followed up with Serious Business. His final Alligator release, 3rd Degree, featured several special guests and an array of blues styles." Read more here.




Black Star Riders Make Top 20 Chart Debut In UK
(hennemusic) Black Star Riders second album, "The Killer Instinct", has debuted at No. 13 on the UK album charts. The band launched a UK tour with Europe on Monday in support of the new project.

"UK FANS: Thank you for all of your support and buying our new release 'The Killer Instinct'", posted the band. "The album debuted at #13 in the National Album Charts, #2 in the National Rock Charts, #2 in the Indie Charts and #3 in the Vinyl Charts!

"It was a tough week to enter the charts with it being the Brit Awards week and coming second to Led Zeppelin Official in the Rock Charts is a coup in itself wink emoticon Big thanks again and see you on the road..." Read more and check out the title track here.




Fearless Vampire Killers Reveal Rescheduled UK Tour Dates
(TeamRock Radio) Fearless Vampire Killers will head out on the road in May on their rescheduled UK headline tour, the band have announced. They postponed their original February run of dates after landing a support slot with In This Moment - but they'll get back on track starting in Norwich on May 4.

Frontman Kier Kemp says: "Bring on this headline tour! We're all very excited to finally get these dates out there. Our fans have been very patient after the rescheduling we had to do. We also feel like the extra time has really given us the chance to get to grips with more songs from Unbreakable Hearts."

Support comes from Annisokay, Zoax and Myth City on select dates. All tickets purchased for the original show are valid for the May gigs. Check out the new dates here.



Magenta's Christina Booth Release 'Disappeared' Video
(Prog) Magenta vocalist Christina Booth has released a new music video for her solo track Disappeared, which she describes as a "very, very personal" piece.

It's taken from her solo album The Light, to be released under the name Christina. It features guest appearances by Andy Tillison, John Mitchell, Theo Travis, Andy Edwards and Dan Nelson, along with Magenta bandmates Robert Reed and Chris Fry.

Booth tells Prog: "This song is about watching someone literally disappear before your eyes. It's about how cruel diseases like Parkinson's and dementia are. Layer by layer the person you know is slowly stripped away until nothing of them remains.

"Don't take someone's smile or the sound of their voice for granted - because one day they will become just a memory." Watch the video here.




Von Hertzen Brothers Release 'Trouble' Video
(Prog) Von Hertzen Brothers have issued a lyric video for their track Trouble. It's lifted from their upcoming album New Day Rising which is released on March 23 via Spinefarm Records.

Vocalist and guitarist Mikko Von Hertzen says: "On the cover of the album there are birds of prey trying to break the chains they carry in their claws. This song is about the chains - the heaviness we carry, the constant struggle we face.

"It's a song about the enemy we all have inside of us - the one who sometimes hides in the background but never surrenders. The one who is always keen on finding an opportunity to bring us down." Watch the video here.




Lesoir Release 'Going Home' Video
(Prog) Lesoir have released a video to accompany their track Going Home, from third album Luctor Et Emergo. It was produced by Muse collaborator John Cornfield and recorded in Airfield Studios, as used by Matt Bellamy and co. Mastered was completed by Rene Rutten, who's previously worked with The Gathering.

The Dutch five-piece cite their inspirations as Anathema, Tool and Karnivool, among others. They've toured with The Gathering, The Pineapple Thief, Karnivool and Within Temptation.

Luctor Et Emergo ("I Struggle And Emerge") is released internationally on March 20. Lesoir hit the road across Europe with Evergrey in May, including three UK shows. See the dates and watch the video here.




Glass Hammer Release New Album Trailer
(Prog) Glass Hammer have launched another teaser for 17th album The Breaking Of The World - and co-founder Steve Babb has explained the "optimistic darkness" that inspired the work.

The follow-up to Ode To Echo is available for pre-order now and shipping begins on March 31. The title is taken from a JRR Tolkien quote - but the band have said the album is "no work of fantasy."

Babb tells Prog: "Lyrically it's dark at time, but the humour is ever-present in songs like Third Floor. Our approach to lyrics has often been compared to the writings of GK Chesterton. It's his optimistic pessimism to which these critics are referring, I think. So yes, it is dark - but optimistically dark!"

He adds: "Musically, this is a much more aggressive album than previous efforts. Very proggy in a traditional way, but we are expanding the sound in many directions. In that regard it is perhaps a continuation of something we began on Ode To Echo."




Eternal Tapestry Release 'Mountain Primrose' Video
(Prog) Eternal Tapestry have released a video for their track Mountain Primrose. It's the opening piece on Wild Strawberries, the US experimental psychedelic band's first double-album, launched last week via Thrill Jockey.

The label say: "It was recorded in a secluded cabin under the shadow of Mount Hood in Zigzag, Oregon. The Zigzag River flowed nearby, and the group spent time between takes learning about the area's floral make up and relaxing under the stars.

"This idealistic lifestyle, however temporary, helped to chart the course of the recording process. The song titles - named after plants specific to the region - speak to the influence of that environment. The lush atmosphere combined with a week-long sequestration from the outside world had a pronounced impact on the music, which unfolds in a panoramic slow-burn.

"Wild Strawberries yields vast rewards for those who spend time in its aural forest." Watch the new video here.




Soundgarden's Kim Thayill Talks Songwriting For New Album
(Classic Rock) Kim Thayill says Soundgarden will explore every opportunity when it comes to writing material for their seventh album. He last week confirmed that work on the follow-up to 2012 comeback King Animal would commence in the coming weeks.

But he admits he doesn't know what bandmates Chris Cornell, Ben Shepherd and Matt Cameron have up their sleeves - and he's not yet revealing what he has himself.

Thayill tells The Metal Hammer Magazine Show at Australia's Soundwave festival: "There's many different vehicles for writing within our band, and we'll explore as many of them as possible.

"I think what will happen is some people will bring riff ideas in, some will bring in demo tapes, and we'll see where it goes. We'll also just jam on an idea and people will add to it." Read more here.




Gnarwolves and The Smith Street Band Teaming Up For UK Tour
(TeamRock Radio) Gnarwolves and The Smith Street Band have announced a co-headline tour of the UK. The six-date road trip kicks off in Bristol on April 23 and wraps up on the 28th in Leicester.

Gnarwolves says: "Bloody stoked to announce the co-headline tour with The Smith Street Band in April. Drug Church will be joining us as special guests. Let's have a good time!"

The UK group released their self-titled debut album last year, while Aussie outfit The Smith Street Band's most recent recording was the Wipe That Sh*t-Eating Grin Off Your Punchable Face EP which came out last month. See the dates here.



Singled Out Flashback: Santana's Black Magic Woman (Gregg Rolie)
With the recent news that the original lineup of Santana recorded new music, we revisit this 2009 Singled Out where Gregg Rolie (founding member, lead singer and keyboards for Santana and Journey) told us about their version of "Black Magic Women." Here is the story:

"Black Magic Woman" is still one my favorite songs to sing and perform even after almost 40 years. It took me about a year to convince the band that we should do this song. It was one I had a passion for and I knew I could sing it. Some songs are made for you and other songs you just sing. This one was made for me.

A little known fact is that Mike Shrieve (drummer for Santana) turned me on to "Black Magic Woman". He knew I was a big Peter Green fan from his involvement with John Mayall's Blues Breakers where Peter took Eric Clapton's place as the lead guitarist and played on the album "Hard Road".

Mike gave me the Fleetwood Mac album with lead guitarist Peter Green and I found "Black Magic Woman" penned by Peter. It became a #4 Hit for Santana and one of the most recognizable Santana songs for decades to follow. I'm sure glad Mike gave it to me.

Tim Abrigg Jr.'s Rock and Roll News Of The Day!: Today's Day in Rock News!

Tim Abrigg Jr.'s Rock and Roll News Of The Day!: Today's Day in Rock News!: Today's Day in Rock Dimebag Grave Vandal Apologizes (Classic Rock) Pantera's camp say they're "disgusted" ...

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Dimebag Grave Vandal Apologizes
(Classic Rock) Pantera's camp say they're "disgusted" after the grave of 'Dimebag' Darrell Abbott was vandalized. Tumblr user Crustyplague, who was later identified as Reece Eber from up-and-coming band Nuclear Hellfrost, posted an image of Dimebag's grave in Texas and boasted about defacing it, saying they spat on it, stole a pair of cowboy boots and wrote the word "fag" on a piece of paper and left it on the grave.

The Pantera camp responded quickly after hearing the news, issuing a statement on Facebook. It reads: "We are absolutely disgusted by this! We ask that all of you please show Dime and his grave the respect he deserves. This conduct will not be tolerated and the authorities have been notified."

Nuclear Hellfrost moved to distance themselves from the incident, claiming it was a former member who had carried out the act. But after thousands of angry comments were left on social media, Eber was forced to come forward and issue a statement apologising for his actions, saying he acted "ignorantly and completely out of line" and insisted his bandmates were not involved.

He says: "There is no reason for doing what I did - and when I say 'I' I mean me alone. My friends were not present. I left a piece of paper with an insult to a man many people idolise and for a cheap laugh. I didn't think about the consequences.

"I cannot express how sorry I am to Vinnie Paul and the Abbott family for the distress I caused, and the other members of Pantera and other acts Darrell was a part of.

"I owe everyone an apology for my actions because they were uncalled for, were horrible and despicable. I went way too far."

See a screen capture of the original post and read more here.




Iron Maiden Done With New Album, On Hold Due To Cancer Fight
Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain reveals in a new interview that the band has completed a new studio album and he gives an update on lead singer Bruce Dickinson's health following his treatment for a cancerous tumor on his tongue.

McBrain tells 98.7 the Gater (via Loudwire). "We have made an album. The album was ready to go this year… and it still is. We were planning on going out and doing some work around the album, which now, we're all just holding on, and once Bruce is up and running, hopefully in the next couple of months, we'll… You never know when this might happen. You just never know, do you? [Laughs]"

He also addressed Bruce's cancer battle, "We were all blown away when we heard the news. But the great thing is [Bruce is] in great hands back home in England, not only with his family, but his oncologists and all the people that are working with him. They were all very positive, as Bruce has been, through the whole thing."

McBrain goes on to explain how Bruce is currently doing, "Obviously, it's a blow for everybody to hear the news. Last week, the official announcement was made, after he finished his treatment. And all of that treatment went exceedingly well. And from not having spoken to Bruce for a couple of weeks, but talking to our manager, he was in amazing spirits, considering the brutality of the radiology, and he had three chemo sessions. So it's been pretty hard, as you can imagine. And he's apparently doing very well.

"He was in the office Wednesday last week, and apparently he went out. He goes down the pub… although he can't taste his beer. He said, 'At least I know it's a 'Trooper.' I've got the bottle in my hand.' [Laughs] I said, 'Does it still work?' 'Oh yeah!' [Laughs]" So, just to let everybody know, from what we can gather, he's really in great hands, and he's doing extremely well. So we expect him to have a full recovery in the next couple of months."

Last month the band revealed that Dickinson has undergone treatment for a small cancerous tumor on his tongue. The band reported that the cancer was found early and Dickinson is expected to make a full recover. Here is the statement from the band, "Just before Christmas, Maiden vocalist Bruce Dickinson visited his doctor for a routine check-up. This led to tests and biopsies which revealed a small cancerous tumour at the back of his tongue.

"A seven-week course of chemotherapy and radiology treatment was completed yesterday. As the tumour was caught in the early stages, the prognosis thankfully is extremely good. Bruce's medical team fully expect him to make a complete recovery with the all clear envisaged by late May. It will then take a further few months for Bruce to get back to full fitness.

"In the meantime, we would ask for your patience, understanding and respect for Bruce and his family's privacy until we update everyone by the end of May. Bruce is doing very well considering the circumstances and the whole team are very positive."

Loudwire has a full stream of the interview with Nicko here.




Led Zeppelin Event Coming To Movie Theaters
(hennemusic) A compilation of live Led Zeppelin performances will be screened in US theaters on March 30th as the legendary band continued their extensive reissues series with last week's expanded reissue of their 1975 release, "Physical Graffiti."

The second evening in the Fathom Events Classic Music Series - the first featured the premiere of "Aerosmith Rocks Donington 2014" last week - will deliver footage of Led Zeppelin live performances from two previously released sources: 1976's "The Song Remains The Same" concert film and the 2003 "Led Zeppelin" DVD.

Fathom Events have pulled clips of the band at London's Royal Albert Hall in January 1970, their July 1973 shows at New York's Madison Square Garden, their five-night run at London's Earl's Court in May 1975, and their two performances at England's Knebworth Festival in August 1979.

More including video here.




Gary Glitter Sentenced To 16 Years For Child Sex Crimes
(Radio.com) Gary Glitter has been sentenced to 16 years in prison after being convicted in the UK of sexually abusing three young girls during his chart-topping heyday.

According to the Associated Press (via Rolling Stone), the singer behind the '70s hits "Do You Wanna Touch Me" and perennial jock jam favorite "Rock and Roll (Parts 1 and 2)," "showed no response" during his sentencing today (Feb. 27).

Glitter was found guilty in a London court earlier this month of one count of attempted rape, four counts of indecent assault and one count of sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13. Read more here.




Emmure Singer Will Still Perform Despite Doctor's Order
Emmure frontman Frankie Palmeri on Friday posted an update about his recovery from what he originally described as a 'major tear' in his vocal cords.

He tells fans that he was advised by an ENT specialist not to "scream for at least the next two weeks." Despite the medical order, he says that he will continue with the band's current tour with Suicide Silence.

Here is his message, "Just wanted to update you on my voice situation. First off..the support and love I saw come from you guys was really incredible and I can't thank you enough for your understanding and concern.

"After returning to the stage last night in Nebraska , I decided it was best to really get a grasp on how much damage there is to my voice and whether or not I can actually continue on with the tour.

"I got the chance to see a doctor today in Des Moines, Iowa and was advised by a ENT specialist to not scream for at least the next two weeks. This was devastating news.

"But with that being said...that does not mean we are canceling and that does not mean I will not be on stage to deliver the best show possible regardless of my condition...

"I am highly depending on you, our fans. To come and help me get through these next couple weeks and really take part in the short time we have on stage as we support Suicide Silence on this 3 week long tour.

"And just in case anyone thinks I am full of sh*t I added the photos of my diagnosis from today's doctors visit.

"Again...this is just to keep you informed on how I am doing and to remind you all that that we are NOT canceling anymore shows and despite my condition I will be up there to perform and reconnect with all of you amazing supporters."





Journey To Perform With Hollywood Bowl Orchestra
(hennemusic) Journey will perform with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra on the opening night of the prestigious venue's 2015 season on June 20. The band will play a full set with the Orchestra, led by Principal Conductor Thomas Wilkins, marking the group's first-ever performance with an orchestra.

The event will also feature performances by the Los Angeles Philharmonic's Youth Orchestra Los Angeles (YOLA), with the evening finishing with a spectacular fireworks show.

Proceeds from the season-opening event benefit the Los Angeles Philharmonic and its education and community programs, which reach more than 120,000 children, teachers and adults every year.




Kid Rock Adds Shows To Summer Tour
(hennemusic) Kid Rock has added two Detroit shows to his summer tour with Foreigner, bringing his total of hometown dates to eight as he hits the road to support his newly-released album, "First Kiss."

Due to the overwhelming demand, Rock will play the DTE Energy Music Theatre on August 18 and 19. The Rock/Foreigner double-bill starts June 24 in Hartford, CT with dates running to early September.

Tickets for all dates will be $20, as they were the last time Rock toured, with every effort made to keep fees down and scalpers at bay. Tickets from the 2nd row to the lawn will be $20, with reduced parking and service fees keeping the total ticket price at about $30 or under.

Rock performed the title track to "First Kiss" on The Tonight Show this week on the eve of the release of his latest album. Watch it here.




Billy Corgan Wants Rockers To Be More Aggressive Against Pop
(Classic Rock) Billy Corgan has called on rock artists to behave more aggressively against pop music - and stop cosying up with members of the lighter genre. His comments come after Gene Simmons sparked months of reaction to his assertion that "rock is dead," and Twisted Sister guitarist Jay Jay French this week said the scene wasn't "regenerating with the youth" in the way it had in the past.

Corgan tells Australia's The Morning Show: "Rock 'n' roll will be fine - I just think it needs to be more aggressive in taking on pop music. Particularly in America there's a very cosy relationship between rock stars and pop stars. I don't think that's a good relationship. Everybody belongs on their own side of the street for a good reason."

The Smashing Pumpkins mainman defines a "rock star" as "an individual who pursues a vision to an end" and namechecks Axl Rose and Elton John as examples.

He adds: "A pop star is supposed to pray at some horrible idol of fame, which is fleeting. That contradiction, to me, is why everyone should stay on their own side." Read more here.




Radiohead Have Changed Their Approach For New Album
(TeamRock Radio) Radiohead guitarist Jonny Greenwood says the band have changed their approach to songwriting as they work on their ninth album - but it's not easy to explain how.

And he reveals they haven't yet listened back to the work they've recorded so far. The band returned to the studio last year to start the follow-up to 2010's King Of Limbs. They've since taken a break and gather to continue the project next month.

Greenwood tells the Sunday Guardian: "We've certainly changed our method again. It's too involved to explain. We're kind of limiting ourselves - working in limits. It's like we're trying to use very old and very new technology together to see what happens."

He adds: "We've done a couple of months of recording and it's gone really well. We haven't listened to anything back yet, so at the moment we're all very happy. I guess we're going to go and listen to what we've done and see if we were right to be so happy.

"But we left it at a good place when we last stopped." Read more here.




Sworn Enemy Announce No Mercy No Surrender Tour
Sworn Enemy have announced that they will be launching a North American spring tour, dubbed No Mercy No Surrender Tour 2015, that will feature support from Wretched, Dark Sermon, and Hammer Fight.

The tour will be kicking off on April 7th in Charleston, SC at Upstairs @ Joe's Pasta and wrapping up on May 1st in Providence, RI at Firehouse 13. Sworn Enemy are launching the tour in support of their latest album "Living on Borrowed Time."

Sworn Enemy's Sal LoCoco had the following to say about the trek, "Looking forward to hitting the road in April with Wretched, Dark Sermon, & Hammer Fight. Gonna be good times so everyone make sure you get your asses out to the shows." See the tour dates here.




Deep Purple Members Part Of Purpendicular Album
(Classic Rock) Purpendicular, the Deep Purple tribute band that's featured members of the band and related artists, will release a concept album entitled This Is The Thing #1 on March 6.

It features contributions from Purple men Roger Glover, Ian Paice, Don Airey, Steve Morse plus Neil Murray (Whitesnake, Black Sabbath, Brian May) and others, plus the voice of Dr Who icon Tom Baker.

Vocalist Robby Thomas Walsh, who co-founded the band in 2007, says: "We wanted to give our fans something new and exciting. We do not want to be a Deep Purple copy as there is only one Deep Purple - we do things our way in our style.

"Of course there is influences from Purple, Floyd, Zeppelin, blues, soul, disco, hard rock and progressive rock - its all in there. The concept is about all our journeys through life - the ups and the downs and the horizontals, touching on money, power and emotions while the clock of life ticks away. We are all in this together so to speak!" Read more here.




Axl Gave Guns N' Roses Guitarist Job Just For Showing Up
(Classic Rock) Guns N' Rose guitarist DJ Ashba has recalled how he got the gig with Axl Rose's band - just by turning up for his audition. He joined in 2009, and reports they're preparing for a busy year of live shows while they continue work on the follow-up to 2008 album Chinese Democracy.

Ashba tells Rock Reflected: "I got a call and Guns was looking for a guitar player on the down-low. They wanted to know if I would be interested. I went down there - and I didn't know, but evidently Axl called management when I was coming down and said, 'If he shows up in the room, he has the gig.' It was kind of like that."

He finds it difficult to choose which GNR songs he enjoys playing most. "I love playing the solo in This I Love," says the axeman. "I change the solo up a little bit from what's on the album. I love Shackler's Revenge - of course, all the old stuff. It's a blast to play.

"There really isn't a song I don't enjoy playing because it's so high energy. The crowd is what makes it over the top - it's a lot of fun out there." Read more here.




Grammys Mean Nothing To Anthrax's Scott Ian
(Classic Rock) Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian says the Grammy Awards "mean nothing" to him. He spoke out following rumblings in the metal community about Tenacious D's win in the Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance category at the recent annual event for their cover of Dio's The Last In Line from the 2014 Ronnie James Dio tribute album, This Is Your Life.

Anthrax were among the nominees in the category - for their cover of Black Sabbath's Neon Knights from the same project - but Ian says he could care less about the honor or the event.

Ian tells Artisan News: "The Grammys mean nothing to me. I really don't pay attention. If anyone has a problem with Tenacious D winning the Grammy, don't complain about them, complain about the Grammys. Jack Black loves Ronnie James Dio." Read more here.




Crashdiet Say Singer Quit Band In The Midst Of Tour
(Classic Rock) Crashdiet have parted ways with singer Simon Cruz - and they say he walked out mid-tour last month without giving his colleagues any advance warning.

They were also working on an album with Cruz, who replaced H. Olliver Twisted in 2009. Remaining members Martin Sweet, Peter London and Eric Young say in a statement: "There is a reason for our lack of news lately. Simon Cruz has left Crashdiet - well, actually he decided to leave in the midst of our mini tour in Japan with no notice whatsoever.

"The last few months have been confusing to say the least. We haven't been sure of what to make of this - other than that our collaboration with Simon is over." Read more here.




Max Cavalera Reveals New Soulfly Album Plans
(TeamRock Radio) Soulfly mainman Max Cavalera has confirmed the band's 10th album will be released in August. The group hit the studio in January with producer Matt Hyde (Slayer, Hatebreed, Sum 41) to record the follow-up to 2013's Savages.

Following the sessions, Cavalera regrouped with Killer Be Killed - the supergroup featuring Mastodon's Troy Sanders, Greg Puciato of The Dillinger Escape Plan and former Mars Volta member Dave Elitch - to make their live debut at Australia's Soundwave festival. They released their self-titled debut last year.

Cavalera tells Spotlight Report: "The next Soulfly comes out in August. I'm finishing the vocals right now. The music is all done. It was done with Matt Hyde in L.A., and it's incredible - a really good record." Read more here.




Yes Plan Massive Box Set Of Long-Lost Live Recordings
(Classic Rock) Yes will release a 14-disc box set and a cut-down 2-disc album of long-lost live recordings from their Close To The Edge era in May. The band recently discovered seven complete concerts in their archives, which had been taped at the end of 1972 in the run-up to the tracking of first live collection Yessongs.

It was drummer Alan White's first tour with Jon Anderson, Steve Howe, Chris Squire and Rick Wakeman. White had just three days to learn the set after Bill Bruford departed to join King Crimson. The restored audio from three months into the tour is described as "open" and "immediate" and "drops listeners right into the front row."

The 14-disc set is entitled Progeny: Seven Shows From Seventy-Two and contains every track recorded across North American during October and November of that year in Toronto, Ottawa, Durham, Greensboro, Athena, Knoxville and Uniondale. It's packaged in a cigarette-case style box, with new artwork and refreshed Yes logo by Roger Dean. Read more including track details here.




Behemoth's Nergal Feared He Had HIV
(TeamRock Radio) Behemoth frontman Nergal stopped himself from crying after being told he had cancer until his doctor had left the room. And the news came after he'd feared he was suffering from tuberculosis or even HIV.

Adam Darski was rushed to hospital in 2010, forcing the cancellation of two tours. Two weeks later he was diagnosed with leukaemia, and underwent a bone marrow transplant. He confirmed he was returning to health the following year.

In his book Confessions Of A Heretic, to be published in English on March 19, Nergal says: "Tuberculosis was first on the list. I thought that wasn't the worst possible scenario. Then it got worse - the doctors said it could also be lymphangioma or HIV.

"When I saw these last three letters I felt weak. Suddenly, flashing before my eyes like a twisted highlight reel, were all the sexual encounters of the last few years. There were quite a few, but as far as I could remember I was always careful.

"There was only one thought in my head: 'Be anything, but not HIV.'" A doctor finally told him and his then-fiancees Dorota that he had cancer of the blood system. Read more here.




L.A. Guns Plan Cross Between White Stripes and Led Zeppelin
(Classic Rock) L.A. Guns frontman Phil Lewis revealed that later the in the year the band is planning to record a "100% blues record" in honor of legendary producer Andy Johns.

Johns,who produced a number of the band's albums, as well as work by Led Zeppelin, Van Halen and the Rolling Stones, died in 2013 of complications arising from a stomach ulcer.

Frontman Phil Lewis says on Facebook: "Looks like we're heading back into the studio later this year after touring. We have a killer concept but I can't tell too much just yet. Something we've never done before.

"It's going to be a 100% blues record in honor of Andy Johns - a cross between White Stripes and Led Zeppelin." Read more here.




Did Bob Dylan Record 'Shadows in the Night' Sequel?
(Radio.com) There has been no real indication that Bob Dylan's recent Shadows in the Night, in which Dylan tackles pop standards originally recorded by Frank Sinatra, is part of a series, or a part one, with sequels to appear.

But one notable music figure, Daniel Lanois, who has worked with Bob Dylan multiple times in the past, is saying that he has personally heard more songs in the Shadows in the Night vein that did not appear on the album, Lanois told the Vancouver Sun.

Lanois recalled the experience of Dylan playing the recordings for him before their release. 'For one of America's great writers to say, 'I'm not gonna write a song. I'm gonna pay homage to what shook me as young boy,' I thought was very graceful and dignified," Lanois said, before dropping the bombshell, 'We listened to 21 songs--because he's made two records of this." Read more here.




Jethro Tull The Rock Opera Tour Announced
(TeamRock Radio) Ian Anderson has confirmed a six-date UK tour for his show Jethro Tull - The Rock Opera, his show that explores the life and times of the industrial revolution leading light.

Earlier this month he revealed the theatrical presentation would feature Tull tracks Heavy Horses, Farm On The Freeway, A New Day Yesterday and others, with rewritten lyrics to better fit the story.

Anderson says: "Instead of spoken introductions to the songs, there will be the use of that operatic device, the recitative, where links are made by sung vocal segments in a simple musical backdrop - making it a little easier and more entertaining for non-English-speaking audiences."

He plans to take the show to Europe and South America before the end of the year. Before that, Anderson will appear at the inaugural Ramblin' Man Fair, sponsored by TeamRock and also featuring Marillion, Dream Theater, Blue Oyster Cult, Haken, Pendragon and more. Read more here.




Ace Frehley Announces European Summer Tour
(hennemusic) Original KISS guitarist Ace Frehley has announced dates for a summer tour of Europe in support of "Space Invader." The 2-week, 9-show run includes a mix of festival dates and headline shows, starting June 6 with an appearance at the Sweden Rock Festival.

The European trek follows an April/May tour of Australia and New Zealand by the original KISS guitarist, marking his first Australian shows since 2010 and his first-ever New Zealand solo dates.

Frehley is touring with guitarist Richie Scarlett, bassist Chris Wyse and drummer Scot Coogan. The guitarist released his first new album in five years, "Space Invader", in August; the project scored him a US Top 10 debut, entering the Billboard 200 at No. 9 with opening-week sales of 19,000. See the new tour dates here.




Magnum Releasing Live Album
(Classic Rock) Magnum are gearing up to launch a live album recorded during last year's European tour, they've confirmed. Escape From The Shadow Garden: Live 2014 was made while they supported the launch of 18th album Escape From The Shadow Garden, also released that year.

Label SPV report: "The setlist comprises songs chosen from seven of their studio albums. The band have produced it so that fans can fully appreciated the songs penned from Magnum's beginning in the 1970s, right up to the present day."

Mainman Tony Clarkin said the follow-up to 2012's On The Thirteenth Day had been his most enjoyable musical experience in some time. "We used to be under permanent pressure from our record companies. They kept demanding hit singles and radio numbers - but that sort of thing doesn't work on demand. Now it's a totally different situation: SPV give us the necessary time and trust us to do the right thing." Read more here.






Kid Rock Questions Beyonce's Popularity
(Classic Rock) Kid Rock is facing an online backlash from Beyonce fans following comments he made about the diva's status as a superstar. In an interview promoting his newly-released 10th album, First Kiss, Rock says he's "flabbergasted" by Beyonce worship.

He tells Rolling Stone: "Beyonce, to me, doesn't have a f***ing Purple Rain, but she's the biggest thing on Earth. How can you be that big without at least one Sweet Home Alabama or Old Time Rock & Roll?

"People are like, 'Beyonce's hot. Got a nice f***ing ass.' I'm like, 'Cool, I like skinny white chicks with big t*ts.' Doesn't really f***ing do much for me." In a follow-up story, Rolling Stone reports Beyonce fans have launched an online attack against the Detroit rocker, posting hateful and violent comments on his social media sites while hiding behind anonymous handles.

For his part, Rock seems to be having fun with the nonsense, posting an image of Raid bug spray on his Instagram page without comment while attracting more anonymous hate. See the photo here.





Brad Paisley Covers Van Halen, Jams With Cheap Trick
(Radio.com) What's better than a showboat dinner cruise with some of country music's top talent performing? A surprise appearance by Cheap Trick. Last week (Feb. 26), Sony Music Nashville invited a select number of those attending the Country Radio Seminar in Nashville, Tenn. to a boat ride on the General Jackson for a show and dinner cruise.

Highlights during the evening included Trisha Yearwood's moving cover of Linda Ronstadt's "Blue Bayou," Jake Owen's powerful new single "What We Ain't Got" and Brad Paisley's impressive cover of Van Halen's "Hot for Teacher," with guitar licks that inspired a standing ovation from the largely industry crowd.

Once Paisley finished "Hot for Teacher" he went into another familiar cover, this time Cheap Trick's "I Want You To Want Me." Midway through the song, Cheap Trick's Robin Zander walked out on stage to critique Paisley's guitar playing.

"You're pretty good on Van Halen stuff," Zander said. "The Cheap Trick, you need to work on." So, the rest of the band entered the stage to show Paisley how it's done. Read more here.




Judas Priest Preview Defenders Of The Faith 30th Anniversary Edition
(hennemusic) Judas Priest are previewing the expanded 30th anniversary edition of their 1984 album, "Defenders Of The Faith" with the release of a new online video and a song stream.

Singer Rob Halford, bassist Ian Hill and guitarist Glenn Tipton share their memories of the original release in a new video, and the group are streaming audio of the track "Night Comes Down" from the package.

Due March 9 (March 10 in North America), the 3CD set will include a remastered version of the album along with a complete live recording from the 'Defenders' tour, captured at the Long Beach Arena in California on May 5, 1984.

The original album went platinum in the US with sales of more than 1 million and featured the singles "Freewheel Burning", "Some Heads Are Gonna Roll" and "Love Bites."




Motorhead Release Studio Videos From New Album Session
(Classic Rock) Motorhead have issued clips from the studio as they continue work on their 22nd studio album. Fresh from a series of November UK shows - including a stop at Wembley Arena - the band entered a Los Angeles studio with longtime producer Cameron Webb in January to begin work on the follow-up to 2013's Aftershock.

Motorhead have been keeping fans in the loop on the project's progress by sharing photos and video from the sessions via their social media sites. The band say: "Phil Campbell is working on guitars today in the studio for our new album! Here's a little taste!"

And along with a photo of mainman Lemmy, they add: "Lemmy's working on bass and vocals today for our new album!" Earlier this month, drummer Mikkey Dee ran into Tool guitarist Adam Jones as the two bands work side-by-side on new projects in the same Los Angeles facility.





Foo Fighters Inspired New Aerosmith DVD
(Classic Rock) Aerosmith say they were inspired to film last year's Download headline set after seeing gigs on TV by artists including Foo Fighters. Aerosmith Rocks Donington 2014 was released this week across the US - and frontman Steven Tyler reveals watching high-def music channel Palladia was a driving force behind the decision to record the landmark concert.

He tells Rolling Stone: "They show a lot of festivals, so whenever you turn it on, you see the Stones or Tom Petty or Foo Fighters and they're f***ing kicking ass. You're watching it in your hotel room and you realise, 'That's a great format.'"

And guitarist Joe Perry considers it one of their best performances from last year and felt everything clicked into place as soon as they hit the stage. He adds: "We were really picking up speed. As you get near the end of a tour, the band gets better and the shows get better. The audience was on the money, the weather was decent - it felt like a special show." Read more here.




Soen Release 'Kuraman' Lyric Video
(TeamRock Radio) Soen have released a lyric video for the track Kuraman. It's taken from their second album Tellurian, which was launched last November via Spinefarm Records.

The lineup features former Opeth sticksman Martin Lopez, Willowtree frontman Joel Ekelof, bassist Stefan Stenberg and guitarist Kim Platbarzdis. They released their debut record Cognitive in 2012.

Their work has been compared to that of Tool in the past but in an interview last year with Prog magazine, Platbarzdis revealed the one band they take most inspiration from is Pink Floyd.

He said: "We have very different tastes and backgrounds in the band but we have some common denominators - and one of those is Pink Floyd. We even cover some of their songs from time-to-time." Watch the video here.




Faith No More Stream New Song
(Classic Rock) Faith No More have released a stream of their track Superhero, from comeback album Sol Invictus. Mike Patton and co's seventh record follows 1997's Album Of The Year and comes after they reunited in 2009.

Keyboardist Roddy Bottum recently said of their latest work: "I can only say it sounds like us and it doesn't - in the best possible way. You know what to expect, and we are going to honour that expectation the only way we know how."

Last month drummer Mike 'Puffy' Bordin admitted he hadn't expected the band to record again, but added: "With more age and experience, I savoured and appreciated the incredible talent around me. Second chances are not to be taken for granted." Stream the new song here.



Singled Out: Afflicted By Design's This Is Not A Love Song
Today Sebastian from Texan industrial metal band Afflicted By Design tells us about their brand new version of Public Image Ltd's "This Is Not A Love Song," which is the second single from the band's cover song project. Here is the story:

Before I started Afflicted By Design I had always been the bass player in the band. I love playing bass, and have been playing bass since I was a young teen, but I wanted to try something different. Inspired by Tim Skold when he did Shotgun Messiah and Skold, I decided to put down the bass and try my hand at writing my own songs, being the lead singer and playing guitar. Like Skold I wrote and recorded an Ep, but I didn't realize how difficult it was to write lyrics. The music for the next Afflicted By Design EP is all recorded, but the lyrics… not so much.

So, while I'm writing lyrics for the next Afflicted By Design EP, I thought recording cover songs would be a good way to learn how other bands approach lyrics, while giving me time to complete work on the new, original songs. When I decided I was going to do covers, I decided that the songs had to be meaningful. The bands and songs that Afflicted By Design covers had to have influenced and inspired me as both as a musician and a fan.

Recording the single "This Is Not A Love Song" was special for a couple reasons. First, I am a huge fan of Public Image Ltd. Most people listen to PIL because of Johnny Rotten and the Sex Pistols, but for me PIL came first, and "This Is Not A Love Song" was my introduction to the band and to the world of post-punk. One of the stories behind "This Is Not A Love Song" says that after releasing 3 albums, John Lydon was approached by the record company and was told that they need to write a hit and it should be a love song. "This Is Not A Love Song" was a middle finger to the record company and turned out to be a hit single for the band.

Secondly, "This Is Not A Love Song" reunited me with my former Otto's Daughter bandmates Jacqueline Van Bierk and Jim Robbins. Otto's Daughter was a cyber-pop industrial band I played with in the beginning of the 2000s. Since leaving the band we've remained friends, and every time we see each other Jacqueline and I talk about playing together. When I started recording "This Is Not A Love Song" I immediately thought that it would be perfect for Jacqueline and Jim. I've played with many bands but I don't think I ever formed such close friendships, and had so much in common, and had as much fun, as I did with Otto's Daughter. It was a special privilege for me to play with them again.

Tim Abrigg Jr.'s Rock and Roll News Of The Day!: Today's Day in Rock News!

Tim Abrigg Jr.'s Rock and Roll News Of The Day!: Today's Day in Rock News!: Today's Day in Rock Arrest Warrant For Former Pearl Jam Member (hennemusic) It has been discovered that there is an outstandi...

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Arrest Warrant For Former Pearl Jam Member
(hennemusic) It has been discovered that there is an outstanding arrest warrant for former Pearl Jam drummer Dave Abbruzzese that was issued in September of last year in Texas on drug charges.

hennemusic reports: The drummer was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance under 28 grams and the manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance, according to the Denton County Crime Stoppers website.

Abruzzese joined Pearl Jam in 1991 after drummer Dave Krusen checked himself into rehab following the completion of the group's debut album, "Ten." Read more here.




Metallica To Headline Rock In Rio
Metallica have announced that they have been selected to headline this year's Rock In Rio in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil as the festival celebrates its 30th anniversary this September.

The band had previously announced that they would be a headliner for the inaugural U.S. based version of the festival which will be taking place in Las Vegas on May 8-9 and May 15-16. They will be headlining the World Stage at the MGM Resorts Festival Grounds on May 9th.

The band had the following to say about headlining the Brazil flagship festival, "One Rock In Rio in a year is just not enough! We're very excited that we have been invited to be a part of the original Rock In Rio 30-year celebration by headlining one night during the festivities taking place September 18-27, 2015 at the City of Rock in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

"This will mark our eighth (!) Rock In Rio appearance including the upcoming May show in Las Vegas. It promises to be quite the party as we join a stellar festival line up including Faith No More, System of a Down, Queens of the Stone Age, Slipknot and many others."

The band also advised fans that this would be their only concert in South America this year.




Coverdale Revisits Deep Purple On New Whitesnake Album
Whitesnake have revealed that their forthcoming album will find frontman David Coverdale revisiting and "re-imagining" some of the classic songs that he performed in the Mk III and Mk IV eras of Deep Purple.

The new album, entitled appropriately "The Purple Album", is set to be released in North America on May 19th in a standard edition, double LP vinyl version and a deluxe edition that will feature two bonus tracks, four music videos and a Behind The Scenes featurette. You can preorder the various versions here.

The band has also released a music video for "Stormbringer," the first single from the album. You can watch the video here. Coverdale had the following to say about the album, "It's a tribute. A homage. It's a huge thank you from me to Deep Purple for the opportunity I was given over 40 years ago

"As I said to Ritchie, you guys set me on an incredible journey that continues today and I couldn't have asked for better teachers. The University of Deep Purple was an extraordinary, amazing school to learn from. We can't wait to play these songs in concert!"

The current lineup of Whitesnake, Coverdale, Reb Beach, Joel Hoekstra, Michael Devin, and Tommy Aldridge, has already revealed North American tour dates in support of the album and will soon announce dates for other parts of the world. Check out the tracklistings and the tour dates here.




Hinder Announce New Album And Tour Dates
Hinder have announced that they will be releasing their new studio album, "When The Smoke Clears," on May 12th and they have revealed a series of North American tour dates.

Drummer Cody Hanson had the following to say about the new album, "We can cross genres whenever we want. We don't want to be a band that can only do that one thing. We have something for everyone. We've always been that way. Having the ability to do our own production, having our own studio, gives us a chance to experiment and try new things."

The band will be hitting the road prior to the album release for a spring tour that will be kicking off on March 13th in Traverse City, MI at Ground Zero and concluding on April 21st in Abilene, TX at the Taylor County Expo Center.

In addition to the tour, they will be playing special CD release shows. The first will take place on May 7th in Tulsa, OK at Vanguard and second is set for May 9th in Hinton, OK at the Sugar Creek Casino Event Center.

The group has also announced appearances at the Loudwire Music Festival on June 28th in Grand Junction, CO and an appearance at the Umatilla County Fair in Hermiston, OR on August 14th. Check out the tracklistings and the tour dates here.




Coverdale and Blackmore Discussed Deep Purple Reunion
(Classic Rock) David Coverdale has revealed that he and former Deep Purple bandmate Ritchie Blackmore discussed the possibility of getting back together after the death of Jon Lord in 2012.

And although the idea didn't come to fruition, it may have informed Coverdale's decision to record an album of his Purple-era tracks with Whitesnake.

The singer - who fronted the MkIII and IV version of Purple from 1973 to 1976 - confirmed the launch of The Purple Album yesterday, describing it as "a huge thank you from me to Deep Purple for the opportunity I was given over 40 years ago."

Coverdale says in the latest edition of Classic Rock, on sale now: "The tragic loss of Jon made me finally realise that life is too f***ing short to hold animosity, bitterness and resentments.

"So I decided to reach out to Ritchie to share the sense of grief and loss of Jon with him, and to express my gratitude to him for bringing me on board Deep Purple. During the conversation we did discuss the idea of getting back together in some way, which was Jon's wish."

He says he didn't pursue the idea because "After several discussions with Ritchie's manager I felt I didn't share their vision of the project. I sincerely wished them well and respectfully withdrew." Read more from Coverdale here.




Pete Townshend Remasters Solo Albums For Reissue Campaign
(hennemusic) Pete Townshend of The Who has announced that he will release 11 albums from his solo catalog digitally on February 25th as part of an extensive reissues program.

The 11 releases cover 1972's "Who Came First", his collaboration with The Faces' Ronnie Lane "Rough Mix", his musical version of Ted Hughes's "The Iron Man", his collections of demos "Scoop", "Another Scoop" and "Scoop 3", as well as the albums "Empty Glass", "All The Best Cowboys Have Chinese Eyes", "White City", "Psychoderelict" and the live album "Deep End Live!" featuring David Gilmour.

All 11 records will be remastered and reissued on CD later this year as part of an extensive reissue program for Townshend's solo material that will run into 2016.

Townshend and The Who recently played the first run of UK dates for their 50 anniversary farewell tour, "The Who Hits 50!"; the band will launch a North American leg in Tampa, Florida on April 15. Check out the reissue album details here.





The Scorpions Reunite With James Kottack Following Rehab
(hennemusic) The Scorpions have welcomed drummer James Kottack back into their lineup following his 2014 arrest and jail time in Dubai and a stint in rehab for alcohol abuse.

"It was like a disaster," frontman Klaus Meine tells TV Rock Live. "He did make a mistake - he crossed the red line, definitely. This was not rock'n'roll and it was not funny. We said to James that he was pretty much out of the band. We told him, 'You have to go to rehab. You've got to take care of yourself and take it seriously.'We've set the doors wide open but it's really up to you.'"

Kottack returned to live duties late in 2014 and was on hand to record the group's new album, "Return To Forever." "He recorded the album in Stockholm at the end of last year, and we played two shows with him," adds Meine. "It was fantastic - it's great he's back in the family." Read more here.




Global Release Day For All New Music Moving Closer
(Classic Rock) The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry is expected to announce that singles and albums hoping to enter charts are to be released on Fridays all round the world.

While Friday is already release day in Australia, Germany and other countries, it's traditionally been Monday in the UK and Tuesday in North America.

The IFPI hope a global release day will capture increased sales as a result of trade being more busy as the weekend begins. Boss Frances Moore tells Music Week: "The whole dynamic of the global release day consultation has been driven by one thing and one thing only - how best to serve the music consumer.

"We've had a long consultation involving retailers, artists and record labels. No one has seriously questioned the concept; the only debate has been about the day." Read more here.



Paul McCartney To Headline The Firefly Festival
(Radio.com) The final headliner for Firefly Festival has been revealed, and it does not disappoint. Paul McCartney will be holding that spot come June 18-21 when the festival takes place in Dover, Del. Macca will be joined by the Killers and Kings of Leon.

McCartney's addition to the lineup isn't too surprising, though; he was long rumored as the headliner ever since the poster, with its blurred-out major headliner, first went live.

In smaller print on the lineup, you'll find acts with just as much recognizability like Morrissey, Modest Mouse and Spoon. Also playing will be Cage the Elephant, Run the Jewels, Gary Clark Jr., Charli XCX, Kid Cudi, Snoop Dogg and Foster the People, among many more. Read more here.




Sun Kil Moon, Blackberry Smoke Lead Led Zeppelin Tribute Album
(Radio.com) This week, Led Zeppelin reissued their 1975 classic double album Physical Graffiti in a number of formats with the usual treasure trove of alternate versions of songs.

To celebrate, the excellent British magazine MOJO has compiled a track by track tribute to the album by a lineup showcasing the diversity of Zeppelin's influence.

The lineup includes Southern rock revivalists Blackberry Smoke, singer/songwriters Laura Marling and Michael Kiwanuka, Malian hard rock band Songhoy Blues, Mark Lanegan collaborator Duke Garwood, Sun Kil Moon and more.

The current issue of MOJO is now on newsstands in the U.K., and will likely be in the U.S. in a week or two. The tribute album is included with the magazine as a CD, but there's also a limited edition vinyl version. Find out how to order that and check out the tracklisting here.




Mastodon's Troy Sanders Says Killer Be Killed Could Play Again
(TeamRock Radio) Mastodon's Troy Sanders hopes supergroup Killer Be Killed will play live again after their run of shows at Australia's Soundwave festival. He hit the stage for the first time this weekend alongside Max Cavalera, Ben Koller of Converge and Greg Puciato of The Dillinger Escape Plan.

And although no other appearances are planned when Soundwave comes to an end, there could be more on the horizon. Sanders tells The Metal Hammer Magazine Show of their first set: "It was pretty rare and amazing. There was a handful of positive anxiety - the good nerves, not the band ones.

"There was a lot of smiles going on. 'Wow, dude - you're Max, you're Juan from Torche, you're Ben from Converge and you're Greg from Dillinger - and we're all jamming together.'"

He jokes that the advantage of working with two other frontmen is "we all get to do 66% less of the work!" Read more here.




Coal Chamber Expand Reunion Album Tour Plans
(TeamRock Radio) Coal Chamber have announced an 11-date UK tour in support of comeback album Rivals. The band's fourth album is released on May 19 via Napalm Records and the tour begins the following day. The band aresupported by Soil, American Head Charge and Dope.

Mainman Dez Fafara recently said of the follow-up to 2002's Dark Days: "This record was over 13 years in the making, and I promise it won't disappoint. Rivals is solid through and through.

"There's maturity and growth in the music, while still maintaining the true Coal Chamber sound, and delivering track after track of killer tunes. We had a great time working together on this record and I hope you all enjoy it as much as we do." Read more including the new dates here.




Swervedriver Announce Spring UK Tour
(Classic Rock) English alt-rockers Swervedriver will tour the UK in May, the've announced. The 14 dates have been lined up to support I Wasn't Born To Lose You - their first album since 1998's 99th Dream.

It launches on March 3 via Cobraside and despite the 17-year period between releases, guitarist and vocalist Adam Franklin says the recording process happened quickly.

He tells Brazilian site Bem Parana: "The actual physical time recording the album was quite quick. Mikey Jones got all this drums down in about three days and Steve George recorded the bass with the drums. Jim Hartridge and I then took a bit more time with the guitars." Read more and see the dates here.




New Found Glory Open To Collaborating With Paramore
(TeamRock Radio) New Found Glory are open to a collaboration with Paramore, guitarist Chad Gilbert has confirmed. The couple have been together since 2008 and were engaged on Christmas Day last year.

And when asked by Spin Or Bin if both bands could get together to work on material, Gilbert says: "There is a very good chance." New Found Glory launched their eighth album Resurrection last year - their first without guitarist Steve Klein. And despite coming through the pop-punk scene in the late 90s, Gilbert insists the band have always had their own unique style and continue to do things their way.

He says: "We've never tried to fit what was popular in the mainstream. When we came out, we just created the music that we played. We never wanted to sound like any other bands. We sounded nothing like Blink-182 or Green Day. We were our own style and we got popular.

"When music started changing and things got poppier or things got a little bit more gothic, a lot of bands changed with the genre - but we created our genre, so we never changed because we started our style of music. "

He also weighs in on the current Blink-182 situation. Read more here.




Al Jorgensen Working On 'The Fastest Music In The History Of Music'
(TeamRock Radio) Ministry mainman Al Jourgensen has revealed his next musical project will be called Surgical Meth Machine - and it's set to feature "the fastest music in the history of music."

He's currently appearing at Australia's Soundwave festival with the final incarnation of Ministry, following the death of guitarist and close friend Mike Scaccia in 2012.

And while there are some more live shows to come from the band he's best known for, he's confirmed 2013 album From Beer To Eternity was their studio swan song.

Jourgensen tells The Metal Hammer Magazine Show: "We're going to do one last tour as Ministry, maybe even another tour, because people seem to want to see it.

"As far as future studio releases, since Mikey's death, I decided it's not the same. It would be like Zeppelin playing without Bonham or the Who playing without Moon or something like that. Me playing without Mikey doesn't seem right."

Instead, he's working on a Surgical Meth Machine album with longtime engineer Sam D'Ambruoso. "We decided to cut out the middle-men," Jourgensen says. "Me and him are doing this music that's just eyeball-popping. There's nothing under 220pbm on there. It's not for the faint of heart."

He compares the material to a track on From Beer To Eternity: "Mikey's Middle Finger is one of the last things Mike did before he died. Imagine a whole album of that - this is what we're going for now. Straight mayhem." Read more here.




Dave Mustaine Hires Megadeth Guitarists To Challenge Him
(TeamRock Radio) Dave Mustaine has joked that he plays tracks by his former band Metallica for fun when he's sitting around the house. But he's also admitted that every guitarist he brought into Megadeth were hired because they challenged him.

Mustaine tells Pensado's Place: "Each guitar player I've worked with over the years, I've gotten because they were better at soloing than I was. I'm pretty confident with my rhythm playing.

"I didn't want someone who sounded just like me - I wanted the two to dovetail together. If you add white and white it's still white. If you add white and black you can start to change the colors. As you add colors into the palette you change the songs."

And he's as passionate about playing guitar as he ever was. "The guitar's helped me say things I can't say with my mouth," he explains. "I say it with my hands. When you play a piece of music and someone else can go, 'I feel what you feel,' you've made a really good bond with somebody." Read more here.



Panic Room Exceed Their Crowdfunding Goal For New Project
(Prog) Welsh outfit Panic Room have exceeded their Kickstarter target set up to help them record an acoustic album. And they say they're "humbled" by the response to their first-ever crowdfunding drive and have thanked fans for their support.

The band say: "We couldn't have reached this target without all of your incredible pledges - we are high-fiving each and every one of you right now. We were Kickstarter virgins so we had no way of knowing exactly how successful or positive this project would be. But you have well and truly 'broken us in.'

"Your support since we announced this acoustic album has been truly amazing, and we couldn't be more proud, excited and humbled to have fans like you."

The record will feature reworked material from all four of their albums: 2008's Visionary Position, 2010's Satellite, 2012's Skin and last year's Incarnate. Read more here.



Steve Hackett Recruits The Flower Kings' Roine Stolt
(Prog) Steve Hackett has discussed his pleasure at appointing Roine Stolt a full-time member of his band. The Flower Kings mainman and Transatlantic member will play bass and 12-string guitar on Hackett's UK tour, after a guest appearance at his Royal Albert Hall concert in October 2013.

Hackett says: "I'm really pleased Roine will be joining the band on bass, 12-string - and, for some songs, doubling on electric guitar with me. Roine is a truly impressive and versatile player and I particularly like his work with other bands and artists.

I've enjoyed playing with him live on more than one occasion and I'm thrilled he's going to join the team. It's marvellous to have both Swedish talents Roine Stolt and Nad Sylvan as part of the band for these Hackett solo/Genesis Revisited shows." Read more here.



Allan Holdsworth Calls On Fans To Help With 'Tales From The Vault'
(Prog) Allan Holdsworth has launched a Pledge campaign to crowdfund his album Tales From The Vault. The record will feature material he's written in recent years and includes guest appearances by colleagues Jimmy Johnson, Chad Wackerman, Gary Husband, Virgil Donati, Jimmy Haslip and many others.

Holdworth tells fans: "It's been quite some time since I've released new material. Rather than going the traditional route, I've teamed up with PledgeMusic to engage you in the release of Tales From The Vault.

"These previously unreleased tracks have been compiled over the last few years and feature many of the phenomenal musicians you've come to know from my tours and recordings." Read more here.




Nightwish's Hietala Discusses Working With Floor On New Album
(Prog) Nightwish bassist and vocalist Marco Hietala has hailed Floor Jansen's work ethic after she became the first frontwoman to attend studio sessions from the day they began.

The band, who released a promo for track Elan this month, are poised to release eighth album Endless Forms Most Beautiful - their first with Jansen at the helm, and with Troy Donockley as a full-time band member.

Hietala tells FaceCulture: "When we got together for the rehearsals, she was the first vocalist to come in on day one and start doing her stuff. It gave us a better view of the songs.

"You head the structures, the vocals, the lyrics and all that, and you can start going through them and what kind of punch they have, and have them play according to those dynamics.

"I could also start working on all kinds of harmony parts. We nailed down a lot that way. That was really a good thing." Read more here.






Scott Weiland Releases Cover Of Rock Classic
Scott Weiland and the Wildabouts have released a cover of T. Rex's 1973 classic "20th Century Boy," which comes from their forthcoming album Blaster.

The album is set to be released on March 31st and "20th Century Boy" is the fourth track that the band has revealed from the project. Earlier this week they released the song "Modzilla," which followed the release of "Way She Moves" and "White Lightning".

Weiland told Entertainment Weekly the following about their version of the T. Rex classic, 'It's just the coolest, most current take on a classic glam-rock song, 'Sounds like it could be playing on the radio now ' it should be!"





Veteran Guitarist Fears The 'Ageing Out' Of Rock
(Classic Rock) Twisted Sister's Jay Jay French says the rock genre is in trouble because it's an "ageing cultural phenomena." His comments come as it was revealed the 10 best-selling musical artists of 2014 had an average age of 38 - some distance from the classic perception that rock music is made for teenagers by teenagers.

And he's concerned that, while no young rock bands are exploding into the big-time, it's not the same case in the world of pop, country and hip-hop. French tells The Metal Voice: "Rock is over 50 years old and it's not regenerating with the youth.

"When I was 17 years old I would see Led Zeppelin, the Stones, the Who, the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan. They were 24 years old. Now there are no rock bands coming up that are that enormous and that young - but you've got plenty of hip-hop artists, country artists and pop artists that are.

"What's happening is, you're watching the ageing-out of a genre of music." Read more and watch the full interview here.




Aerosmith's Brad Whitford Talks DVD, Tour Plans, Guitars and More
(Gibson) Things are simmering in the Aerosmith camp, with the announcement of a cross-country summer tour expected any day now. In addition, this Thursday (Feb. 26), a special one-night concert film event will be broadcast in more than 300 theaters nationwide. Titled "Aerosmith Rocks Donington 2014," the show features the band performing a 19-song set list during their headlining appearance at last year's Download Fest at Donington Park in Leicestershire, UK. A 90-minute DVD of the show will be available this spring, with the tour to soon follow.

To get the scoop on these happenings and more, we spoke with longtime Aerosmith guitarist Brad Whitford. The veteran rocker shared his thoughts on a range of topics, including his favorite guitars, his primary influences, his musical interaction with Joe Perry, and whether or not fans can expect a new Aerosmith studio album anytime soon.

What made the Donington show an especially good choice for the theater concert broadcast and DVD? We've always felt it's a great festival and a great event. And we've always associated it with a lot of our favorite bands and musicians. Plus the crowd is incredibly enthusiastic. It's an honor to be included in that festival. It felt like a no-brainer to immortalize that show.

Joe has said he thinks of Aerosmith primarily as a live band. Do you agree? I understand his view, although we've certainly made some great recordings and come up with some great music in the studio as well. Still, I tend to agree--our true passion is to get on-stage and perform.

You're formally schooled and Joe is self-taught. Has that figured into how the two of you work together? It's hard to say. Joe comes from a place where music is inside him, and he just has to get it out. His approach is intuitive, whereas I may stop and think about what we're doing a little more. We've never sat and had a lot of discussion about what we should play. It's very organic. He'll start playing something, and I'll immediately find a counterpoint for it. That's how we've always worked. We find things to complement one another's ideas.

Which players influenced you as you were coming up? I was totally blown away by the British Invasion. Like most of my contemporaries, seeing The Beatles and getting into their music was huge-a revolution, really. And then all these other British bands came along--groups that were really different, who had their own sound. I'm still infatuated with Cream, with Eric Clapton's work in that band. Hendrix, Zeppelin, Jeff Beck-it was a wave of incredible talent. Guys like Joe and me were profoundly affected.

You've said elsewhere that "Sunshine of Your Love" affected you in a special way. I'm still amazed at the feel of that song. Everything Clapton did there is incredible. It's amazing how far back on that beat that guitar part is. And the solo is stunning. It's still one of my favorites--his tone, his choice of notes. It was great instruction about touch and technique. I was amazed at Clapton's vibrato, how smooth and subtle it was. It was a great lesson in how to make a solo stand out.

You've had a strong hand in the writing of some great Aerosmith songs, and you've also done great lead guitar work. Does it ever rankle that more people don't recognize that? In the past it did, but not anymore. I remember being in London years ago and reading review of the Rocks album. There was this great review of the song "Last Child," that credited all the guitar work to Joe. That made me angry, because all the guitar work on that song was mine. But these days I think our individual styles and approaches are well recognized. I enjoy my place in the band and my standing with the public. I wouldn't want to change anything about that.

Is there any talk of Aerosmith going into the studio to make another album? Not at the moment. Steven has wanted to do his own album for the past 20 years, and finally he's blocked out some time for that project. That may inspire him and the rest of us to get back into the studio together, but it probably wouldn't happen until after we've finished the tour we're doing this summer. Right now we're not under the gun of a recording deadline, with record contracts and stuff. Who knows--that might give us even more inspiration, where we do it just because we want to do it.

Are there any surprises you can reveal about the summer tour? We're hoping to bring some songs out of the closet, musically. Of course we'll still be playing the bulk of the hits as well, but one goal is to maybe do some songs people have never heard us do before live. That's our goal. I'm hoping we can pull that off. I know we can--it's just a matter of staying committed to the idea. We feel it's time to bring some new music into the fold.







Black Star Riders Release Acoustic 'Charlie I Gotta Go' Video
(hennemusic) Black Star Riders vocalist Ricky Warwick and guitarist Damon Johnson teamed up to deliver an acoustic performance of the track "Charlie I Gotta Go" from the band's newly-released second album, "The Killer Instinct."

The duo dropped by The Orchard to play the tune as they make the rounds to promote the new record. "The Killer Instinct" was recorded in Nashville with producer Nick Raskulinecz (Rush, The Foo Fighters, Alice In Chains, Mastodon).

The project is available in multiple formats: CD, Limited 2 CDs Digibook with a bonus disc that features 2 extra songs and acoustic versions of 4 tracks from the album, Limited Gatefold Black Vinyl and Limited Gatefold Clear Vinyl (available for mail orders only).





Joanne Shaw Taylor Releases 'Outlaw Angel' Video
(The Blues Joanne Shaw Taylor has released a video for her track Outlaw Angel. It's taken from her fourth album, The Dirty Truth, which was released in September via her label Axhouse Music.

Taylor recently said: "I wanted to retain the same vibe that we captured on the first album. The new one is a combination of rock and blues - I think it's exciting, and hopefully my fans will love the rockier edge."

She appears at the inaugural Ramblin' Man Fair, sponsored by The Blues Magazine, on July 25-26 at Mote Park, Kent, alongside Gregg Allman, Seasick Steve, The Temperance Movement, Blues Pills, Randy Bachman, VerseChorusVerse, Mick Ralphs, Aaron Keylock and others.





35th Anniversary Of U2's Big Break
(Gibson) Today (February 26), marks the 35 year anniversary of the gig that landed U2 their record deal. The band had been gradually building up a following in Ireland and the UK over the past few years, and had recently won five categories in a Hot Press readers poll. In order to make the most of this minor success, U2 manager Paul McGuinness booked the band (who was essentially broke) on a headlining tour to try and get that ever elusive record deal.

By this time U2 had been a band for a few years, and had gradually started to find their sound. On a trip to New York with his family, The Edge had bought a Gibson Explorer. "It was the zig-zag shape that set it apart but the sound and the feel were great too. Everyone was playing the same kinds of guitars and I thought, we sound different, let's look different," said The Edge in U2's autobiography U2 By U2. Armed with his new guitar, The Edge soon started fiddling around with echo units, and was developing what would become his signature sound.

The band needed a recording contract that came with touring support as well, because without it they could never afford to finance a US tour, and would be stuck touring the neighboring European countries, not getting the chance to make it Stateside. For the culmination of their headlining tour, McGuinness had booked the band to play Dublin's National Stadium. It was a brave move, seeing how the venue could hold over 2,000 people, and was regularly used for established Irish acts, as well as visiting bands from the US, and the UK.

Having exhausted many of the major record labels, U2's manager turned his attention to Island Records. The (at the time) rather small label had made a name for itself by releasing reggae music, most prominently Bob Marley & the Wailers, but McGuinness was starting to exhaust all his options, and figured it was worth a shot. It didn't hurt that Island's publicist Rob Partridge happened to be a fan of U2. So for the National Stadium gig the band had invited Island Records A&R man Bill Stewart in hopes that a deal could be struck. Read more here.





Fozzy Found New Audience With War
(TeamRock Radio) Chris Jericho reckons Fozzy's mix of styles on last year's Do You Wanna Start A War helped them appeal to a wider audience. The frontman and wrestler says it's been their most popular record - and he puts that down to doing what they wanted with their music.

Jericho tells Examiner.com: "We wanted to focus on writing great songs and not worry about if they're too heavy, too poppy, too dancy or too ballady. I think a lot of bands put themselves into a box: 'We're a heavy metal band, so we must play heavy metal,' or, 'We're a pop band so we must play pop.'"

He continues: "When you think of some of the greatest bands of all time, whether it be the Beatles or Queen, they always had records with a lot of diversity - but they'd still sound like the Beatles and Queen." Read more here.




Carcass Frontman Says Bands Should Have Humble Goals
(TeamRock Radio) Carcass frontman Jeff Walker has suggested many bands in today's metal scene are driven by money and not by creativity. And he tells newer groups not to expect to make it in a crowded genre - especially when classic acts haven't yet retired.

He tells Rock Overdose: "I think if you're going to play music, your reason for doing that should be solely that you want to be creative and enjoy it. You should be realistic. We never formed this band to get rich, famous or big. You should have very humble goals.

"Too many people are creating bands as a career choice. 'Should I be a football player? Should I be an actor?' Everyone wants to be famous but I think your motives have to be pure."

He continues: "The reality is that the older bands are not going anywhere - they still exist. It's like a club and there's more and more people joining but no one's leaving. The old guard is still there, Priest, Maiden." Read more here.




Moonspell Continue To Challenge Themselves With New Material
(TeamRock Radio) Moonspell mainman Fernando Ribeiro admits they band are facing a challenge as they prepare to perform material from upcoming album Extinct. But he believes the struggle will prove worthwhile.

Ribeiro tells Metal Kaoz: "We definitely want to take another route in our music. Even for us to write it was challenging. To play it is challenging. Now, to make it happen live is also a challenge - but we don't mind, because we feel the songs are great."

The Portuguese outfit's challenge extended to keeping up with producer Jens Bogren's hectic schedule. "He is a very involved guy; he's restless - he never gave us a day off," Ribeiro recalls.

"He's all work, work, work because he wants everything to shine through. He gave a bit of discipline to us all. It was a complete production, and a very cool and intense process." Read more here.




Singled Out: Prophet Omega's The Day The Radio Died
Today Prophet Omega mastermind Joe Magistro tells us about "The Day The Radio Died" which is the first single released from the forthcoming album "Going Out To Slab City" (out March 14th). Here is the story:

The Day The Radio Died is the third track on the latest Prophet Omega album Going Out To Slab City. The song fits into the larger tapestry of the album but centers around one specific event; a good old-fashioned American close encounter with folks not from our cosmic neighborhood. It's inspired by an actual event. That mind blowing encounter lasted 20 minutes or so. This song is not nearly as long.

Some people would assume that beings from an unimaginably advanced civilization wouldn't have the occasional existential crisis. the nerve!
"What did they believe in? What'd they hope to find? Where were they going? How many empty miles behind"

"they just kept going, since the day they came, thought we'd change forever but our lives remained the same"
Hey little buddy was that trip through the space-time continuum worth it?

The Day The Radio Died was recorded and mixed at home in the Catskill Mountains in New York State. I'm usually making the Prophet Omega music at home on my own which tends to give it its own flavor but sometimes it's nice to bring in a friend to add a little something something on top, a little extra personality. This song has guest appearances from two of my favorite people. Adam Widoff plays one of the two guitars (the really good one) and Burnell Pines chimes in on "nah nah nah" vocals. These guys bring a little space madness to our terrestrial road-trip.

Tim Abrigg Jr. Rants/Raves:: Today's Day in Rock News!

Tim Abrigg Jr. Rants/Raves:: Today's Day in Rock News!: Today's Day in Rock Older Artists Selling More Music? (Classic Rock) Music appears to be becoming an old person's game as...