Staind Fractured in Studio: 'It Got So Bad'

by Gary Graff, Detroit  |   August 19, 2011 1:54 EDT

WireImage

Staind

Aaron Lewis

Staind's hard-rocking, self-titled seventh album, due out Sept. 13, is also the toughest album the band has ever made, according to frontman Aaron Lewis.

"It was full-on falling apart at the seams," Lewis tells Billboard.com. "Everything just went completely sideways, for so many different reasons. It got so bad that we stopped working (together) and we just went to doing it on our own" in separate locations, with minimal contact with each other. "It was definitely the most difficult and trying and tumultuous record that we have made yet," he notes.

First Single Off "Staind": "Not Again"

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And, Lewis adds, the entire affair was caught on film, which will be included with the deluxe version of "Staind" and may have theatrical, TV or film festival showings in the future. "It's painful to watch. It's very revealing," Lewis acknowledges. "We were an open book for the whole thing; I think the camera got shut off twice during the entire process. And it's very unflattering, but... it's real. It's what really happened."


Nevertheless, Lewis says that he, guitarist Mike Mushock and bassist Johnny April (drummer Jon Wysocki left the band after the sessions) are happy with the results of the Johnny K-produced album, which Lewis likens to earlier Staind sets such as "Tormented" and "Dysfunction."

"Going into ('Staind') we all agreed that it needed to be a heavy record," the explains the singer, whose move to a solo career (his "Town Line" EP debuted at No. 1 on the country chart in March) pruned softer material such as "Outside" and "It's Been Awhile" from Staind's ouvre. "It needed to go back to what it was we set out to do 13 years ago and go back to that vibe and that energy, and we knew that was going to be the case going into it."

Nevertheless, "Staind" -- which was initially titled "Seven" -- ends with a gentle track called "Something to Remind You." The track "The Bottom" appeared on the "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" soundtrack, while Staind's first single, "Not Again," is out now. Snoop Dogg recorded a guest rhyme for the track "Wannabe," but at this point the version that appears on the album will probably be without the rapper.

Aaron Lewis Talks Country Crossover With Billboard

Lewis says that since the album's been finished, Staind's members have pulled themselves back together as a band, though he notes that "we're business partners and we always have been. We're not friends that have known each other forever. We've known each other to start this band." Staind plans to play sporadic shows during the fourth quartet to promote the album's release but won't start touring in earnest during February in Australia before moving through Asia, North America and Europe in time for the summer festival season, with another North American leg after that.

Lewis, meanwhile, will continue performing as a solo act between Staind's tours and plans to make his first full-length album during 2012. He's also developing a new outdoors show, "Hunting With Heroes," that he expects to be on TV in the new year.

VAN HALEN – New Track Premiere Is A Hoax!

August 21, 2011

Den Headz, a track entitled “Late Term” – purported to be VAN HALEN’s lead-off single from their first David Lee Roth-fronted album in 27 years – was loaded up onto YouTube mysteriously on August 19 by a user named nostatic1616. Unfortunately, it now turns out that this is a hoax. The track is actually a song from Dave’s 1998 release “DLR Band”. It’s called “Counter Blast”… itself a scorching hot rocker for sure… but not new Van Halen.

Listen HERE.



http://www.van-halen.com/

Labels’ ownership claims “absurd” says Don Henley

August 19, 2011

Eagles man slams big business attempts to wrest ownership of masters from musicians who made them as legal change looms

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Call to action: Don Henley

Don Henley of the Eagles has slammed record labels’ attempts to prevent musicians from gaining legal ownership of their master tapes.
He says the big business argument amounts to labels claiming they created the work, not bands – and adds that if it puts companies in an even worse situation than they currently find themselves, it’s their own fault.
Changes to American copyright law means labels will no longer be allowed to own recordings for ever. Provided they register two years in advance, artists can invoke “termination rights” and be granted ownership of masters recorded after 1978.
Henley has begun that procedure for Eagles masters and suggests other musicians should think about doing the same.
He tells the New York Times: “If any artist wants to get his masters he should be able to do that – but I don’t know if labels are interested in going down that road.
“I look at my masters as something I created. I want to be able to pass them onto my kids – it’s part of their legacy, or at least is should be.”
Record companies had attempted to bypass the new law by having a “work for hire” clause inserted, meaning musicians would be viewed as having done a job for payment, in the same way builders might be paid to build a wall and wouldn’t have any rights of ownership over it.
But Henley says: “The work for hire clause attempts to state the record labels are the creators of these works – which is absurd.”
The Recording Industry Association of America argues the situation will create chaos, saying: “Rights for most recordings would be divided among band members, producers and others who contributed to the recording. It might require years of litigation to sort out who has what rights.”
Henley retorts: “That’s a lovely dance step. It’s merely conjecture. I want my stuff back – and if the producer or the percussionist wants termination rights for it, let me deal with that. Better the chaos on the artists’ side than on the labels’ side. They’re in chaos already.
“But if the industry had been more fair, historically speaking, to both artists and consumers, it might be looked upon a little more kindly. The labels are sleeping in a bed of their own making.”

Van Halen: New single due next week?

There’s all kinds of Van Halen rumors these days, as the band’s status and new album remain top secret stuff inside the walls of VH-land.

With their headlining shows at Australia’s Soundwave Revolution this fall scuttled because the festival itself was cancelled by promoters, one of the latest rumors suggests VH have been approached by a pair of Aussie promoters to try and get some dates down under confirmed for early 2012.

Beyond live shows, anticipation also grows amongst fans for new music from Van Halen, something that hasn’t existed in 7 years, for starters.

VH’s new album will be the first with original singer David Lee Roth in 27 years, the band’s first album in 13, and their first project with Wolfgang VH on bass, replacing the ousted Michael Anthony, who was too friendly with Sammy Hagar for Eddie VH’s liking. Blood is thicker than…everything, it seems.

As for new music, the Boston Herald reports a rumor generated through distant sources that the first VH single, “Late Term,” is set for release next Tuesday, August 23.

The paper admits the rumor is based on somewhat shaky information, so it’s too early to tell if there’s anything to this but mere speculation.

Since VH themselves never provide comments on things like this, the closest confirmation/denial of anything VH-related seems to be coming through the Van Halen News Desk, who have unofficially taken on the role on VH spokespeople, for some reason.

The VHND quickly shot down the Herald’s rumors Thursday, saying:

“There is a new, widespread rumor that specifically states the release date and song title of what would be the first single from Van Halen’s upcoming album. As with nearly all rumors like this, this rumor is completely FALSE. Stay tuned to VHND.com for news you can trust…”

Let’s see what happens in the coming days…

The Darkest Hour' Trailer Puts New Spin On Alien Invasion

8/15/2011 1:47 PM ET

(RTTNews) - "The Darkest Hour," December 25th:

For families looking to get away from the usual inspirational family fodder this Christmas, PG-13 "The Darkest Hour" might just be the perfect fit. "The Darkest Hour" looks to take audiences to the now familiar place of a post-apocalyptic Earth, where a group of young Americans try to survive as aliens look to drain the planet of all its energy.
The trailer seems to borrow a little from Steven Spielberg's "War of the Worlds" remake, as humans don't seem to have much of a chance against superior beings with weaponry that can zap anything into pieces. Emile Hirsch ("Into the Wild"), Max Minghella ("The Social Network"), Olivia Thirlby ("Juno") and Rachael Taylor ("Transformers") star in what looks to be another movie packed with horror and special effects, which is what you might expect from movies based on alien invasions.
After a couple unique spins on the alien invasion movie, such as "District 9" and "Monsters," we'll see if "The Darkest Hour" can do more than recycle bits and pieces from a familiar genre.
The trailer for "The Darkest Hour l" can be viewed at the movie's official site. Box office outlook:
The biggest problem "The Darkest Hour" has is that it's going up against a plethora of highly touted PG-13 films, which will make it difficult to find a wide audience.
"Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows," "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol," "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo" and "War Horse" all come out around the same time and have the clear inside edge in terms of box office appeal.
Still, alien invasion movies keep getting made for a reason, so a quietly successful box office run isn't out of the realm of possibility for the Summit Entertainment release.

Brad Pitt In Talks For 'The Gray Man'

8/16/2011 2:22 PM ET

(RTTNews) - Brad Pitt is reportedly in talks to star in the upcoming action thriller "The Gray Man." The film centers around a former C.I.A. who has become an undercover assassin. James Gray has signed on to direct the film and it will be produced in association with New Regency.

The main character has been targeted for elimination by other assassins and has to escape death as he also tries to protect his daughters, who have never met him. The film's script, penned by Adam Cozad, was on last year's Black List, which ranks the top unproduced film scripts each year.
Pitt's production company Plan B is reportedly associated with the film and his business partner Dede Gardner will co-produce. Up next for Pitt is the sports drama "Moneyball," in which he plays the president of the Oakland Athletics.

DIO DISCIPLES ANNOUNCE FIRST-EVER US TOUR:

Some fans figured that with the passing of Ronnie James Dio in 2010, one of metal's greatest voices of all-time had been silenced forever. But Dio's music will live on forever, and many of his friends and/or former band mates are making sure of it, as they have reunited as Dio Disciples ­ a concert celebration to the former singer of Black Sabbath, Rainbow, and Elf (and successful/respected solo artist). And while Dio Disciples has already performed overseas, US fans have waited patiently for their chance to catch the group. Soon, their wish will be granted.
The band (which is comprised of singers Tim "Ripper" Owens and Toby Jepson, guitarist Craig Goldy, bassist Rudy Sarzo, keyboardist Scott Warren, and drummer Simon Wright) has announced a string of dates (with more to be announced), which as of now, kicks off on September 22nd at the Chance in Poughkeepsie, NY, and wraps up on October 9th at Trees in Dallas, TX. Keep your eyes peeled to Dio Disciples' Facebook page for announcements regarding additional US tour dates.
Touching upon almost every era of Dio's stellar career, you can expect to hear faithful and heavy renditions of such classics as "The Last in Line," "Rainbow in the Dark," "Holy Diver," "Heaven and Hell," "Neon Knights," "Man on the Silver Mountain," among countless others.
And Dio Disciples have been receiving rave show reviews, including the Planet Mosh website, which gave a recent London performance a 10/10 rating, and proclaimed, "The performance was a fitting tribute to the memory of the great man himself. I'm not sure there is a better way of keeping the legacy alive, than by witnessing this group of men with such outstanding ability pour every ounce of their being into delivering Dio's music so perfectly."
Get ready US fans, as it will soon be time to "Stand Up and Shout" to an evening of Dio music once again.

Confirmed US Tour Dates [more to be added]:
9/22/2011 Poughkeepsie, NY The Chance
9/23/2011 Asbury Park, NJ Stone Pony
9/24/2011 Springfield, VA Jaxx
9/26/2011 Buffalo, NY Town Ballroom
9/27/2011 Pittsburgh, PA Altar Bar
9/28/2011 Cleveland, OH House of Blues
9/29/2011 Chicago, IL House of Blues
9/30/2011 Medina, MN Medina Entertainment Center
10/6/2011 Baton Rouge, LA Varsity Theatre
10/7/2011 Houston, TX Scout Bar
10/8/2011 San Antonio, TX Sunken Gardens
10/9/2011 Dallas, TX Trees
For more information, visit: www.facebook.com/pages/Dio-Disciples/197868730252916 / www.facebook/OfficialDioFacebook / www.ronniejamesdio.com.

Iommi swipes at hack over Sabbath reunion story

August 17, 2011

Tony apologises to bandmates after journalist “breaks his trust” to make two-month-old conversation sound like confirmation band are together again

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Reunion: Sabbath last got together from 1999 to 2006

Tony Iommi states he has not confirmed any Black Sabbath reunion – and he’s taken a swipe at a journalist who made it sound like he’d made the situation official.
The guitarist has apologised to bandmates Ozzy Osbourne, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward after the “absolute nonsense” story exploded round the world.
Yesterday the Birmingham Mail published an article written by 25-year veteran reporter Andy Coleman quoting a conversation he’d had with Iommi in June, although the context made it seem as if it was a more recent talk.
The result made it sound like confirmation the axeman had regrouped with Osbourne, Butler and Ward, as previously reported by MetalTalk.
In a real official statement Iommi says: “I’m saddened that a Birmingham journalist whom I trusted has chosen this point in time to take a conversation we had back in June and make it sound like we spoke yesterday about a Black Sabbath reunion.
“At the time I was supporting the Home Of Metal exhibition. I was merely speculating, shooting the breeze on something all of us get asked constantly: ‘Are you getting back together?’
“Thanks to the internet it’s now gone round the world as some sort of ‘official’ statement on my part – absolute nonsense.
“I hope he’s enjoyed his moment of glory. He won’t have another at my expense. To my old pals Ozzy, Geezer and Bill: sorry about this. I should have known better.”

Sammy Hagar Doesn't Like The Van Halen Brothers, But Misses Them

August 16, 2011

Former Van Halen frontman Sammy Hagar still misses his former bandmates despite their acrimonious break-up.

Hagar parted company with the Jump hitmakers in 1996 after 11 years as the group's frontman, claiming he had been fired after a bust-up with founder/guitarist Eddie Van Halen.

While the rocker hasn't forgiven Eddie and his drummer brother Alex, he still believes they made great music together.

He tells The Pulse of Radio, "You know, I miss Van Halen. I don't like them f**kers... Bad guys. But I miss 'em, you know. I miss that musicianship and that creative spark and that friction that made it all work, you know."

Van Halen is currently in the studio with original vocalist David Lee Roth.

Courtesy of www.sleazeroxx.com and www.starpulse.com

SONY TO RELEASE JOURNEY'S GREATEST HITS VOLUME 2 NOVEMBER 1:

Sony/Legacy Recordings will celebrate the continued success of one of rock's biggest acts Journey with a sequel to the multi-million selling Greatest Hits album. Journey Greatest Hits Volume 2 will be released in the USA November 1.
Sony and former lead vocalist Steve Perry chose the songs for the compilation with Neal Schon and Jonathan Cain offering no objections. As was the case with the original Greatest Hits, this set only covers the Steve Perry fronted Journey years.
The cover art is final (as below), with liner notes and booklet still being finalized.
Track Listing: 1. Stone In Love 2. After The Fall 3. Chain Reaction 4. The Party s Over (Hopelessly In Love) 5. Escape 6. Still They Ride 7. Good Morning Girl 8. Stay Awhile 9. Suzanne 10. Feeling That Way 11. Anytime 12. Walks Like A Lady 13. Little Girl 14. Just The Same Way 15. Patiently 16. When I Think Of You 17. Mother, Father (Live In Houston 1981).

JANI LANE - ONE LAST LEAD VOCAL TO BE RELEASED THIS WEEK:

News from Liberty & Justice: "We are deeply sorry for the untimely passing of Jani Lane. Like many stars, his light burned very brightly but faded too quickly. We have one of, if not the last, recording that Mr. Lane finished in the studio. We have witnessed an out pouring of emotion from the world's music community regarding Jani's death. We feel obligated to his family, friends, and fans to share one of his last artistic endeavors. This single "Sin", was originally scheduled for release in early 2012 as part of a double CD from L 'N J entitled "The Cigar Chronicles." The song along with Lane features JK Northrup of King Kobra (who recorded and mixed the track), Keri Kelli of Alice Cooper, and Bill Leverty of Firehouse.
The single, "Sin" from Liberty n' Justice featuring Jani Lane will be available for digital download through iTunes starting Tuesday 8-15-11 and other digital stores to follow in the next few weeks. The song was written by JK Northrup, Justin Murr, Jani Lane, Keri Kelli, & Scott Bolan. The song is published by Up-R-North Music (ASCAP), Justin Murr Music (BMI), & Snare Enterprises (ASCAP).The I-tunes artwork was done by David Dluzak and other medias by Mark Lanoue."
Here is what people associated with the Liberty n' Justice project had to say:

"Jani Lane was the Vincent Van Gogh of "Hair Band Melodic Hard Rock." A brilliant artist wrestling with his inner self. I came to know him through years of touring together and through many conversations. It was difficult to see him fight with his demons. He was my friend, my contemporary, and he will be truly missed. This may be one of, if not his last recording. The performance has a poignant message in relation to his life story. I know that for him, Rock and Roll Heaven is indeed, not too far away! Nothing but Love to you my Brother, Jani." ~ CJ Snare of Firehouse/Rubicon Cross.

"In March of 2011, I was asked by Justin Murr to play on a song called "Sin". I gladly excepted the offer because Liberty n' Justice always puts out great music. The demo had a scratch vocal by the co-writer, JK Northrup that sounded really good, but I did not know who was going to be chosen to sing the real vocal. I've just learned that I was matched up with Jani Lane. I will tell you that Jani did an amazing job with his vocals. I am truly honored to be playing on this recording, which is quite possibly the last recording Jani ever made. I have extremely fond memories of touring with him since 1991 when we all became good friends on Warrant's "Blood, Sweat, & Beers Tours". Firehouse has played well over a 100 shows since then with Warrant and with Jani's solo gig. Our friendship has never faded. This song's lyrical content is very timely, and shows Jani in an extremely vulnerable and honest light, where he bares his soul in an uncanny way. RIP my brother, your music will always be with me..." ~ Bill Leverty of Firehouse.

"Like everyone, I was shocked to hear about the passing of Jani. I was privileged to have opened a show with Warrant in Los Angeles at a large venue called "The Country Club". It was a sold out show, and just before they got signed! It was easy to see why Jani and Warrant would make such an impact on the music world with his stage presence and song writing abilities. Now some 24 years later, I found myself working with Jani on a song called "Sin" for the upcoming album with Justin Murr's "Liberty N' Justice" called "The Cigar Chronicle's". Jani's vocals and input on this song are very powerful! Although it was not intended for release until 2012, all involved felt the importance to get this song out to all of his fans to hear this amazing song. I know he will be smiling when this song is heard by all. My sincere condolences to all of his family and friends. He will be missed, but not forgotten! R.I.P Jani Lane!" ~ JK Northrup.

Download an exclusive 1 minute MP3 clip of the song Sin here: L&J Sin.

Austin Powers’ Band to Return?

Peter Hodgson

|

08.15.2011

Mike Myers is believed to be close to signing on for a fourth Austin Powers movie, according to sources cited by the Hollywood Reporter – which means Powers’ band, Ming Tea, also may make a return.
Although the deal is not yet confirmed, Hollywood scuttlebutt via Hitflix has it that Myers has agreed to write, produce and star in the new film, which would be the first Austin Powers movie since 2002’s Goldmember.
In addition to Myers as the inimitable (though many have tried) Austin Powers, Ming Tea features The Bangles’ Susanna Hoffs as Gillian Shagwell on lead guitar, Matthew Sweet as Sid Belvedere on bass, Stuart Johnson as Manny Stixman on drums and Christopher Ward as Trevor Aigburth on guitar. Their song “BBC” appeared in the first Austin Powers movie and “Daddy Wasn’t There” was in Goldmember. The band also has performed occasional live sets.

Black Sabbath reunite

August 16, 2011

Osbourne, Iommi, Butler and Ward made decision to reactivate influential band two weeks ago and started rehearsals yesterday says source

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Born again: Black Sabbath

Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward have reformed Black Sabbath and are already rehearsing together.
MetalTalk.net reports the band made their decision two weeks ago and gathered in a studio yesterday morning. They’re planning to tour and it’s believed album has not been ruled out.
The news brings to an end speculation the original lineup would get together following the death of Ronnie James Dio last year – even though the four original members continually said there were problems with the plan.
Dio replaced Ozzy when Iommi fired the singer in 1979. The American had two stints with the British outfit before he fronted Heaven and Hell with Iommi, Butler and drummer Vinny Appice for the last years of his life. Ward had been part of the plan but bowed out early.
The founding members had got back together in 1997 and tried to make an album in 2001, but scheduling conflicts made it impossible to complete. The project fizzled out while Ozzy continued with his solo career.
In February this year Geezer Butler had ruled out a reboot, saying bluntly: “There will definitely be no reunion of all four original members of Black Sabbath, whether to record an album or tour.”
In April Ozzy added that he wasn’t sure whether the band could physically do it. He said: “I’m up for it and I keep fit every day. But if it’s meant to happen, it’ll happen.”

Cheap Trick’s silence for stage collapse victims

August 16, 2011

Rock band who nearly died in Ottawa wait to speak out as survivors recount Indiana horror where five were killed

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Fatal moment: the Indiana stage falls

Cheap Trick, who narrowly escaped death in a stage collapse last month, have expressed their sympathy for those who were killed in a similar event over the weekend.
Five died and 45 were injured when a freak gust of wind blew down the main stage at the Indiana State Fair on Saturday.
It’s the third large-scale incident of the North American festival season, following the Flaming Lips’ video wall collapse in Tulsa and Cheap Trick’s near-death drama in Ottawa.
The pop-rockers escaped with their lives when their gear truck broke the scaffolding’s fall just above them, leaving them room to get out. They’ve since demanded event organisers do more to ensure the safety of bands, crews and crowds at open-air events – but are keeping silent for now.
They say: “We express our sympathies to the victims in Indiana and to all who grieve. There will be a time to address the issue of concert safety – but not today.”
Meanwhile a survivor of the disaster has told how he crawled back into the rubble to help others, after he was sure his wife was unhurt.
David Wood tells ABC News: “It was chaos. I’d just done running and pushing her out of the way. There was this kind of instinct to go back and help the ones who were screaming.
“After I climbed back in there it was amazing how many people were hollering ‘I’m a doctor’ or ‘I’m a nurse’.”
Country duo Sugarland were meant to be on stage at the moment it collapsed, and believe they were saved by their tour manager’s decision to delay the performance.
The band’s manager Gail Gellman praise road boss Hellen Rollens, telling Yahoo: “The band and crew were getting ready to go on, and as Hellen walked down the ramp the stage fell. So her decision to hold them for literally a minute saved every band member and crew’s life.
“As a tour manager it’s super-important to understand what the weather conditions are when you play outside. We’ve always talked about not putting the band on during wind, lightning or heavy rain.”

Gibson.com Picks Greatest Songs of the ’80s

08.15.2011

For the past month, Gibson.com has been asking its editors, writers and – most importantly – readers to name the greatest songs of the decade that brought us MTV, pop metal, college rock and something called Kajagoogoo. Now that the votes have been tallied, we’re ready to reveal Gibson.com’s 50 Greatest Songs of the ’80s. (If you’re curious to see how the Readers Poll turned out, scroll down.)
When the dust settled, The Clash’s impassioned classic “London Calling” came out on top. For you rock historians out there – yes, we’re aware that Joe Strummer’s snarling anthem was released in 1979 in the U.K. But, since it didn’t come out until 1980 in the States, it counts.
Other notable entries include Guns N’ Roses, who landed three songs in the Top 50 (including two in the Top 10!), all from 1987’s Appetite for Destruction. U2 also had an impressive showing with three songs on the list (“With or Without You” ranked the highest at #12). Other “repeat offenders” included ’80s mainstays Michael Jackson, AC/DC, Prince, Van Halen, Talking Heads, R.E.M. and Madonna.
Check out the full list below (the dates mark when each song was released as a single):
Gibson.com’s 50 Greatest Songs of the ’80s
1. The Clash, “London Calling” (1980)
2. Guns N’ Roses, “Sweet Child o’ Mine” (1988)
3. Michael Jackson, “Billie Jean” (1983)
4. Guns N’ Roses, “Welcome to the Jungle” (1987)
5. Public Enemy, “Fight the Power” (1989)
6. AC/DC, “You Shook Me All Night Long (1980)
7. Prince, “When Doves Cry” (1984)
8. Def Leppard, “Pour Some Sugar on Me” (1987)
9. Van Halen, “Jump” (1984)
10. Duran Duran, “Hungry Like The Wolf” (1982)
11. Queen and David Bowie, “Under Pressure” (1981)
12. U2, “With or Without You” (1987)
13. Bruce Springsteen, “The River” (1981)
14. Bon Jovi , “Livin’ on a Prayer” (1986)
15. New Order, “Blue Monday” (1983)
16. Prince, “1999” (1982)
17. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, “I Love Rock ’n Roll” (1981)
18. U2, “Pride (In the Name of Love)” (1984)
19. Talking Heads, “Once in a Lifetime” (1981)
20. Joy Division, “Love Will Tear Us Apart” (1980)
21. The Police, “Every Breath You Take” (1983)
22. Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, “The Message” (1982)
23. Talking Heads, “Burning Down the House” (1983)
24. The Rolling Stones, “Start Me Up” (1981)
25. Van Halen, “Hot for Teacher” (1984)
26. Squeeze, “Tempted” (1981)
27. Run-D.M.C., “Walk This Way” (1986)
28. Dire Straits, “Money for Nothing” (1984)
29. The Smiths, “How Soon is Now?” (1985)
30. Journey, “Don’t Stop Believin’” (1981)
31. R.E.M., “It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” (1987)
32. U2, “Where the Streets Have No Name” (1987)
33. Motörhead, “Ace of Spades” (1980)
34. R.E.M., “Radio Free Europe (1981)
35. Ozzy Osbourne, “Crazy Train” (1980)
36. Whitesnake, “Here I Go Again” (1987)
37. Madonna, “Like a Prayer” (1989)
38. Mötley Crüe, “Dr. Feelgood” (1989)
39. Beastie Boys, “(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party!)” (1987)
40. Dexy’s Midnight Runners, “Come on Eileen” (1982)
41. Michael Jackson, “Beat It” (1983)
42. Devo, “Whip It” (1980)
43. Guns N’ Roses, “Paradise City” (1988)
44. Big Country, “In a Big Country” (1983)
45. Phil Collins, “In the Air Tonight” (1981)
46. AC/DC, “Back in Black” (1981)
47. Madonna, “Like a Virgin” (1984)
48. The Bangles, “Walk Like an Egyptian” (1986)
49. Sonic Youth, “Teen Age Riot” (1988)
50. The B-52’s, “Love Shack” (1989)
Although the Readers Poll (which is reflected in the overall list) agreed with the final tally in some instances, it professed a slightly stronger love for metal and hard rock. Readers voted two AC/DC songs (both from Back in Black) in the top three and an Iron Maiden classic at #2 – which didn’t even make the final list.
But the readers also spoke up for plenty of ’80s pop hits that didn’t make the final countdown, including tunes by Simple Minds, Roxy Music, John Lennon, Fine Young Cannibals and Split Enz. Check out the readers’ top 25 picks below:
Gibson.com Readers Poll – Greatest Song of the ’80s
1. AC/DC, “Back in Black” (1981)
2. Iron Maiden, “The Number of the Beast” (1982)
3. AC/DC, “Shoot to Thrill” (1980)
4. Dire Straits, “Money for Nothing” (1984)
5. Simple Minds, “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” (1985)
6. Roxy Music, “More Than This” (1982)
7. Guns N’ Roses, “Welcome to the Jungle” (1987)
8. R.E.M., “It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” (1987)
9. Van Halen, “Jump” (1984)
10. Guns N’ Roses, “Sweet Child o’ Mine” (1988)
11. Talking Heads, “Burning Down the House” (1983)
12. Neil Young, “Rockin’ in the Free World” (1989)
13. Pixies, “Monkey Gone to Heaven” (1989)
14. John Hiatt, “Slow Turning” (1988)
15. Michael Jackson, “Billie Jean” (1983)
16. Bruce Springsteen, “I’m on Fire” (1985)
17. Guns N’ Roses, “Paradise City” (1988)
18. Fine Young Cannibals, “She Drives Me Crazy” (1989)
19. John Lennon, “(Just Like) Starting Over” (1980)
20. U2, “Where the Streets Have No Name” (1987)
21. Stevie Ray Vaughan, “Pride and Joy” (1983)
22. Rush, “Tom Sawyer” (1981)
23. Split Enz, “I Got You” (1980)
24. Modern English, “I Melt with You” (1982)
25. U2, “Pride (In the Name of Love)” (1984)

Bush announce US tour

Monday, August 15, 2011

Now that the reunited Gavin Rossdale and Bush have whetted fans appetite’s with some US TV appearances this summer, they’re set to unleash the real deal.

In support of the September 13 release of “The Sea Of Memories,” Bush have announced a headlining tour of North America that will kick off August 17 at Stubbs in Austin, Texas.

Most of the dates on the trek will include Chevelle and Filter as openers.

In addition to the tour, Bush will be making several television appearances in the coming months, including: on September 21, Gavin Rossdale will appear on “Chelsea Lately,” and on September 22, Bush will perform on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.”

Bush
US Tour 2011

Aug 17 -Stubbs Austin, TX (KROX radio show)
Aug 18 - Congress Theater - Chicago, IL
Aug 19 - KRBZ Radio Show, - Kansas City, KS
Aug 20 - Sunset Music Fest - Los Angeles, CA
Sep 13 - Babcock Theatre - Billings, MT
Sep 14 - Knitting Factory - Boise, ID
Sep 15 - Neptune - Seattle, WA
Sep 16 - Knitting Factory - Spokane, WA
Sep 18 - Roseland - Portland, OR
Sep 20 - GAMH - San Francisco, CA
Sep 27 - 4th & B - San Diego, CA *
Sep 28 - The Grove - Anaheim, CA *
Sep 29 - The Joint - Las Vegas, NV *
Oct 01 - First Bank Ctr - Denver, CO *
Oct 06 - Fillmore - Detroit, MI *
Oct 07 - PNC Pavilion - Cincinnati, OH *
Oct 08 - Eagles Ballroom - Milwaukee, WI *
Oct 10 - Stage AE - Pittsburgh, PA *
Oct 11 - Paramount Theatre - Huntington, NY *
Oct 13 - Wellmont Theatre - Montclair, NJ *
Oct 14 - Electric Factory - Philadelphia, PA *
Oct 15 - House of Blues - Boston, MA *
Oct 17 - Fillmore - Washington, DC *
Oct 18 - Masquerade - Atlanta, GA *
Oct 19 - House of Blues - Orlando, FL *
Oct 21 - Concrete St - Corpus Christi, TX *
Oct 23 - Verizon Theatre - Grand Prairie, TX *
Oct 25 - Pharr Events Ctr - Pharr, Texas *
Oct 27 -Dos Amigos - Odessa, TX *
Oct 28 - Sunken Gardens - San Antonio, TX *

* = shows with Chevelle and Filter

These US dates are in addition to the many European dates previously announced; check out the entire tour schedule here.

New Photo of Eddie Van Halen

Monday, 15 August 2011

Valerie Bertinelli tweeted today, “You can still be friends after 30 years even if you’re divorced. Thank you Ed!”

SUPAGROUP BIOGRAPHY 1

Supagroup singer Chris Lee has just pissed himself from laughing too hard. His brother, lead guitarist and producer of their latest album, Hail! Hail!, is doubled over in laughter at his brother’s misfortune. They are editing their new video, Back In The Game, one of four, in a basement of a friend, who is not an editor. Nor has he ever made a video before. “We just finished shooting a TV pilot and three videos, with all the trimmings, HD cameras, lights, soundmen, all that. And this video we shot in one hour, with an old VHS camera, on a green screen and it’s by far my favorite.” The hard edged song’s video features Chris, Benji, and new members, Leon (drums) and Brian (bass) in obscure costumes, doing things such as juicing fruit, and playing a Theremin over stock footage of seagulls, babes at the beach and a moose. That DIY attitude and disregard for the status quo sums up the band, in particular the brothers, in a nutshell. Says Benji, “Fuck ‘em if they don’t get it. I don’t give a shit what people think about it. We’re doing it for us.”
As Supagroup prepares to release their newest record, Hail! Hail!, the band finds themselves focused on what’s important. “So many things in music these days are either out of your hands or a major bummer. Radio sucks, I guess that’s nothing new. Labels are going under. Hooray. Bands can’t afford to tour because people are staying home. Why leave your house when you can wank it at home on your computer? All these things can bring you down and make it easy to forget the reasons why you became a musician in the first place. We realized that we shouldn’t worry about all that stuff because there’s only one thing we need to worry about: us. Fuck everyone else. Our goal is very simple. Write great songs, record them well, and kick ass with them live” says singer Chris Lee. Adds his brother and lead guitarist Benji Lee, “We set out to make an album that will stand the test of time, in particular, my test of time. Will I like this record in a year? Three years?”
As for the album, Benji opines that “Hail! Hail! is our fourth ‘official’ release; we had a few independent albums before. So going into the writing phase we were thinking that this album should stack up with all of our favorites. They all have one thing in common: we still listen to them.” “And I think we pulled it off,” adds Chris, “We’re in our creative prime, still young enough to not be jaded (well, not too jaded), yet experienced enough to know what we’re doing, and really go for it, to try and do something special. Hail! Hail! reflects that. It rocks from beginning to end.”
After making their last two albums Fire For Hire (2007) and Rules (2005) with über-producer Kevin Shirley (Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, Iron Maiden), the Lee brothers wanted to go back to producing themselves. “Kevin’s the best, but with his reputation and schedule, we were always under the gun, both time and money-wise. We built our own studio (The now infamous House of Lee) so we could take our time” says Benji. “With me producing and time not being a factor, it let us try out things we never had before, acoustic songs, lots of backing vocals, mushrooms, even some strings.” Adds Chris, “It also let us record dozens of songs, some with multiple versions to choose from. And Kevin Shirley mixed it, so we had the best of both worlds.”
Album? In the age of iTunes, isn’t that an anachronism? “This is a complete record. Not a single. You’re not gonna get jiggy with it. We’re not trying to make you repeat things over and over in your head like a robot. You might do that, but it’s not our intention. We’ve lived quite a bit of life, and because of that, I think we have a lot more to say”, says Chris. That journey proved to be too much for the long time rhythm section of drummer Michael Brueggen and bass player Leif Swift, who graciously recorded the album after tendering their resignations. “That was lame, of course, but we understood their decision. After ten years on the road together, they wanted to do grown up stuff, like start a business, a family and we really do wish them the best” says Benji. “They’ll always be our brothers, and we’re really grateful they recorded Hail! Hail! That being said, the additions of Leon (Touzet, of Dash Rip Rock, Buckshot) on drums, and Brian (“Bruiser” Broussard also of Dash Rip Rock) on bass really gave the band a boost of energy. Their excitement is infectious and has made us really appreciate playing live again” adds Chris. “Plus, those boys can drink!”
As for the pants covered in piss? “Did you really piss yourself” asks Benji. “A little” replies Chris. “You see? That’s a testament to what a good idea and follow through can achieve.” Says Benji, “Don’t wash those pants man. Those pants mean everything.”
Supagroup – Hail! Hail!
1. Hail! Hail! (4:06)
2. Sexy Summertime (3:24)
3. Back In The Game (3:30)
4. That’s Enough Boys (3:00)
5. Where’d You Put The Whisky? (3:32)
6. Down He Goes (4:29)
7. Along The Yangtze (3:33)
8. Dear Hong Kong (4:10)
9. The Bold (4:57)
10. Lion In The Age Of The Cage (3:27)
11. Crazy Too (4:12)
12. Never Bring A Knife To A Gunfight (6:14)
13. The Sun Will Still Shine (2:40)
Produced by Benji Lee
Mixed by Kevin “Caveman” Shirley
Mastered by Ryan Smith at Sterling Sound
All songs written by Lee/Lee for Brothers Lee #1 Publishing Co., Inc. (BMI), 2010.
Featuring Danko Jones on “That’s Enough Boys”, and Marcy Von Hesseling on “The Bold”.
Art by Blake Boyd, Design by Sean Yseult.
VIDEO RELEASE DATES – To see the bands new videos and their new TV show, Amped, please email your press contact.
DATES::::
SUPAGROUP DISCOGRAPHY
Hail! Hail! (2011), Producer: Benji Lee, Foodchain/Brothers Lee #1 Publishing.
Fire For Hire (2007), Producer: Kevin Shirley, Foodchain Records.
Rules (2005), Producer: Kevin Shirley, Foodchain Records.
Supagroup (2003), Producer: Trina Shoemaker/Benji Lee, Foodchain Records.
Rock and Roll Tried To Ruin My Life, (2001), Producer: Jack Endino, PPR.
We Came To Rock You (1998), Producer: Benji Lee, PPR.
Planet Rock (1996), Producer: Benji Lee, Prison Planet Records (PPR).

SUPAGROUP BIOGRAPHY 2
Hail! Hail! by Supagroup – Biography 2011
The perfect rock record. It rocks you. Rolls you. Takes you on a journey. Makes you think. Makes you feel. Makes you want to hear it again and again. It understands you, tells you things you didn’t know about yourself – it gets you. Kurt Cobain famously said that the perfect rock record had only been achieved three times in history: Jimmy Hendrix’s Are You Experienced?, AC/DC’s Back In Black, and Guns N’ Roses’ Appetite For Destruction.
Add Supagroup’s Hail! Hail! to this list.
Supagroup has been a flag bearer for real rock and roll for over a decade. And with this latest effort, they’ve staked their claim on bold new territory. Hail! Hail! is Supagroup’s bid to be considered amongst their heroes as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Hail! Hail! is a dense collection of thirteen humongous hits. Every song is bursting at the seams with deep hook after huge vocal after blazing guitar after gigantic chorus after insightful lyric. There’s so much going on, it takes multiple listens just to figure out why you’re smiling and rocking out so hard. Then you start to notice how one song leads to the next to the next to the next until the albums done and you just want it to start all over.
The hottest band from the South – New Orleans, to come from the North – Anchorage, Alaska, features the brother tandem of Chris and Benji Lee, lead singer and guitar slinger, respectively, for Supagroup. Rounding out the fearsome foursome are Leon Touzet on drums and Brian Broussard on bass. Hail! Hail! marks the band’s sixth studio record. It opens with the title track, a straight up rocker in the vein of Bon Scott-era AC/DC, followed by their first single, the southern fried good time party song “Sexy Summertime”. “Back In The Game” stomps out an anthem built for exhorting the Roman gladiators of old and “That’s Enough Boys” (featuring guest vocalist Danko Jones) follows with the fury of a Terminator leading a prison break. “Where’d You Put The Whiskey?” tells the tale of the perils of excess with a groove that would make Billy Gibbons shed a tear while “Down He Goes” finishes the side with a bittersweet, hard rocking tale about never giving up. The acoustic instrumental “Along The Yangtze” evokes Led Zeppelin III, and serves as the mid meal palate cleanser to flip the record.
Whew! Seven out of seven huge hit songs in a row. And that’s just the first half!
The second half opens with “Dear Hong Kong”, which would fit nicely with Cheap Trick’s first four records, while it’s follow up “The Bold” sounds like all of Physical Grafitti’s side three crammed into one song. “Lion In The Age Of The Cage” tells a tale of the little guy going crazy fighting the Man to no avail, while “Crazy Too” is a perfect summary of that one crazy, doomed, messed up relationship we’ve all had once, if we’re lucky. “Never Bring A Knife To A Gunfight” perfectly evokes the scariness of the dark alley in the middle of the night that was New Orleans post Katrina, while album closer “And The Sun Will Still Shine” stokes the fire of hope you need to fight off those nighttime demons.
Supagroup has been there. They’ve rocked asses all over the world with their blistering live show, had multiple hit singles, they’re press darlings, critically acclaimed and hailed as songwriting geniuses, they’re also Hollywood’s secret weapon when a track is needed to put a scene over the top.
They’ve also done that. On top of being the most exciting live act in any festival they’ve played, they’re the funniest interview, and the most down to earth guys. They’re New Orleanians who you want to have a beer or seven with, because you know they know how to have the best possible time wherever they are. A real band, where you know every one of the member’s names, and not just the singer. This is top down, wind blowing through your hair, driving through the canyons of Mars music. In a world that seems to have forgotten, or wants to forget, the millions of fans who just want to pump their fists, bang their heads, and have a good time, Supagroup has come to their rescue. It’s time to Hail! Hail!, to the new kings, for Supagroup is Rock and Roll.
Supagroup – Hail! Hail!
1. Hail! Hail! (4:06)
2. Sexy Summertime (3:24)
3. Back In The Game (3:30)
4. That’s Enough Boys (3:00)
5. Where’d You Put The Whisky? (3:32)
6. Down He Goes (4:29)
7. Along The Yangtze (3:33)
8. Dear Hong Kong (4:10)
9. The Bold (4:57)
10. Lion In The Age Of The Cage (3:27)
11. Crazy Too (4:12)
12. Never Bring A Knife To A Gunfight (6:14)
13. The Sun Will Still Shine (2:40)
Produced by Benji Lee
Mixed by Kevin “Caveman” Shirley
Mastered by Ryan Smith at Sterling Sound
All songs written by Lee/Lee for Brothers Lee #1 Publishing Co., Inc. (BMI), 2010.
Featuring Danko Jones on “That’s Enough Boys”, and Marcy Von Hesseling on “The Bold”.
Art by Blake Boyd, Design by Sean Yseult.
SUPAGROUP DISCOGRAPHY
Hail! Hail! (2011), Producer: Benji Lee, Foodchain/Brothers Lee #1 Publishing.
Fire For Hire (2007), Producer: Kevin Shirley, Foodchain Records.
Rules (2005), Producer: Kevin Shirley, Foodchain Records.
Supagroup (2003), Producer: Trina Shoemaker/Benji Lee, Foodchain Records.
Rock and Roll Tried To Ruin My Life, (2001), Producer: Jack Endino, PPR.
We Came To Rock You (1998), Producer: Benji Lee, PPR.
Planet Rock (1996), Producer: Benji Lee, Prison Planet Records (PPR).

'Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes,' 'The Help' Put Up Big Weekends

8/15/2011 11:15 AM ET

(RTTNews) - For the second straight weekend, "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" was the number one movie at the box office, posting a very strong $27.5 million and pushing its 10-day total past $100 million domestically. Despite a fairly limited release, historical drama "The Help" hit with its target demographic, helping it haul in a solid $25.5 million and propelling it to a nice four-day total of $35 million. "Final Destination 5" also got off to a decent start, while both "30 Minutes or Less" and "Glee: The 3D Concert Movie" struggled to reach mainstream audiences this weekend.

Backed by substantial critical support and good audience marks, "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" continues to be a nice success for Fox as it hits with audiences across the globe. With one of the cheapest production budgets for a franchise action movie this summer ($93 million), "Apes" is already up to $104 million domestically and has racked up $179 million worldwide. Though it will likely fall from the top spot next weekend, it should be able to continue to post decent numbers well into the fall in foreign markets, which should be enough to send director Rupert Wyatt into pre-production for a sequel in the near future.
Aimed at a completely different audience was drama "The Help," which stars Emma Stone and Viola Davis. An inspirational story about the racial divide in the deep south during the early 1960s, "The Help" opened last Wednesday and immediately started posting strong numbers, enough to propel it to a surprising $25 million opening weekend. "The Help" even had a limited release of just 2,534, less than both "Final Destination 5" and "30 Minutes or Less."
Boasting high scores on Metacritic and IMDB.com, "The Help" seems to have a nice combination of critical and audience support, which should lead to a very solid overall box office run. Though its production budget isn't yet available, "The Help" is clearly one of the least expensive movies of the year to earn at least $20 million in its opening weekend. Without any adult-geared dramas hitting theaters until "The Debt" opens in a few weekends, look for "The Help" to stick around the box office for a while.
Meanwhile, "Final Destination 5" put up a steady but ho-hum $18.40 million this weekend for distributor Warner Brothers/New Line. As expected, audience support is starting to wane, as "Final Destination 5" dropped substantially from the $27 million opening of 2009's "The Final Destination." But even though "Final Destination 5" dipped from the last installment, an $18 million opening for an inexpensive production with no big names in its cast is still fairly strong, leaving the door open for yet another "Final Destination" in the future.
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Heart to Release New Album, Memoirs in 2012

Michael Wright

|

08.15.2011

35 years ago, Heart kicked in the gates of the predominantly male playground of rock with their debut album, Dreamboat Annie. The album introduced a winning formula of Zeppelinesque guitars with Ann Wilson’s banshee vocals. Wilson and her sister Nancy recorded some of the biggest hits of the rock era with “Crazy on You,” “Magic Man” and “Barracuda,” among many others. Not content to rest on their laurels, the Wilson sisters have multiple projects in the works for the coming year.
First up, the group is prepping a new album with producer Ben Mink, who co-produced the band’s 2010 album, Red Velvet Car. Nancy Wilson told Billboard fans can expect some heavy guitars this time around.
“We've got most of it written already," Wilson disclosed. "We're writing again and working on songs with producer Ben Mink. This time we're gonna go a little more heavy rock, a little more electric guitar. And so far so good; I think there's some really amazing songs already… We're still kind of polishing and buffing the rough demos so far, but we're getting excited."
The Wilsons are also working with rock journalist Charles Cross (Heavier Than Heaven, Led Zeppelin: Shadows Taller Than Our Souls) on a memoir.
"We're telling the whole story," the guitarist said. "I think it's important to be kind of brutally honest without making anyone else feel bad in any way, if possible. There's a lot of stuff you remember that's like, 'Wow, why did I do this with that person?' or 'What was I thinking?!' or 'How controlling was so and so?' It's definitely not a sensational, telltale book, because that's never who we are. There's going to be some wild parties and some failed relationships, but not too much more dark stuff really."

Heart are currently on tour with Def Leppard.