Today's Day in Rock

Slipknot Plan To Make New Album
Slipknot's Shawn "Clown" Crahan tells Kerrang! that the band have plans to record a new album but fans shouldn't hold their breath waiting for it.

Loadwire reports: "There's plans [to make another record] but that's a way off," Crahan said. "No one will push it, because it's going to be a big one. It'll be closer to 'Iowa', but it'll be sadder and crazier and really thought provoking, it could even be conceptual."

Understandably, Crahan added, Slipknot are going to take their time with the project because they're still dealing with the loss of bassist Paul Gray, who died May 24, 2010, in a hotel in Urbandale, Iowa. more on this story



Axl Rose Snaps
(hennemusic) It sounds, and looks, like a TMZ moment, but eyewitness reports indicate Axl Rose snapped at fans at a Rosario, Argentina airport Monday night, following the band's performance at Salon Metropolitano.

A GNR fan shot the footage, and she states in her comments that it is Axl arriving at the terminal. The rough translation of the Spanish text by the fan is that Axl arrived at the airport to take his private jet; when the VIP gate wasn't working, he was forced to use the main entrance, and fans descended upon the car when it pulled up the main entrance.

The video shows a dark SUV arriving at the curb; as fans gather and one approaches the car, Axl gets out of the back seat, slamming the door in anger while yelling, "Get the f**k away from me, you f**king idiot." More including the video



Sebastian Bach Assault And Mischief Charges Dropped
(Rock News Desk) Assault and mischief charges against Sebastian Bach have been dropped, but Canadian legal officials didn't tell the singer's accuser.

Bach was arrested in his hometown of Peterborough, Ontario, in November last year after an altercation in a local pub. Video footage showed him appear to break a wine glass after being asked to leave the premises.

Now all charges have been abandoned after prosecutors accepted it was unlikely Bach would be found guilty due to lack of evidence. His lawyer, Jim Hauraney, says the musician will donate $700 to a city charity by way of apology. more on this story



Evanescence Plan To Rock The Globe
Evanescence kicked off their North American tour in support of their new self-titled album this week but they are already looking ahead to future tour plans.

Loudwire reports that frontwoman Amy Lee announces that the band is already working on adding a second leg of U.S. tour dates that will hopefully kick off in late January 2012. If you live outside of the U.S., don't fret, Evanescence are also planning to bring their show around the globe. Lee says, "We're gonna be all over the world — we always tour the world, but this time we're making a point to try to hit a lot the countries that we've always wanted to go to and have never been to."

She adds, "We've never been to Indonesia, or whatever. So yeah, we've got a big list of places that we're gonna be touring for the foreseeable future." more on this story



Dave Grohl To The Rescue
(Banana 101.5) Cage the Elephant were in danger of missing their opening slot for Foo Fighters in Salt Lake City this week after their drummer's appendix burst. Luckily there was a pretty kick ass drummer already there and willing to sit in for a few songs — Dave Grohl.

Dave Grohl made a name for himself beating the skins for Nirvana, and still occasionally plays in the Foo Fighters' off cycles — most recently for Them Crooked Vultures. Though Dave fronts one of the world's biggest rock bands, he is still well respected (and rightfully so) as a rock drummer.

So when the Kentucky alt-rockers Cage the Elephant found their drummer Jared Champion hospitalized for appendix issues just hours before the show, Dave volunteered his services so they could still open for his band. A few songs into their set with a substitute drummer, Grohl made his way to the stage and finished out the last five songs of the set. more on this story



Aiden To Ustream Listening Party
Aiden have announced a worldwide listening event for their upcoming album, Some Kind of Hate.

The band will be presenting the album in its entirety on Friday, October 21st. Aiden will be in Chicago to host the listening party live and take fan questions "on air" before the William Control concert held at the Bottom Lounge that same night.

Fans can ask questions that will be answered live following the album stream – no boundaries given - via Twitter by tweeting @victoryrecords and tagging Aiden on Facebook (facebook.com/weareaiden) beginning now. Event Link



Jack's Mannequin Score Top 10 Debut
Jack's Mannequin scored an impressive showing for their third release, People and Things, which debuted at no. 1 on Billboard's Alternative Albums Chart and at no. 9 on the overall Billboard 200 chart this week.

The band is out now on a headlining tour that kicked off last week with a special show with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra where they created symphonic arrangements for some of their best-known hits.

11 short films were created for every song on People and Things. Andrew McMahon wanted to provide an artistic visual counterpart to the album and enlisted the help of independent film directors from around the world, many of which he found on Vimeo. The films debuted in a special screening at Angelika Theatre in NYC last week and are all now streaming on YouTube. more on this story



The Monkees May Return To The Road
(Gibson) This past summer saw three of the four original Monkees reunite for a 45th anniversary tour. That tour broke down prematurely after 43 shows, but guitarist Peter Tork says the '60s pop group will likely hit the road again in the not-too-distant future.

"It would probably be in the next year or two," Tork told RollingStone.com, when asked how long the wait might be. "But obviously nothing is settled yet, and until we see a settlement in sight, we can't even begin to arrange a tour. Once you start arranging a tour, you may be able to get it mounted about six or seven months down the road."

Tork declined to offer details regarding why this year's tour was abruptly halted. "There were some business affairs that couldn't be coordinated correctly," he said. "We hit a glitch and there was just this weird dislocation at one point. I can't say anything more…" more on this story



Jane's Addiction Update Their Sound
(Gibson) On October 18, Jane's Addiction will release The Great Escape Artist, the band's first new studio album in eight years.

In a just-published interview with CNN, the group revealed that their sound has been "updated" for the new disc.

"We are now working with synthesizers and computer software that goes with guitars," said frontman Perry Farrell, "so you'll hear a lot of very modern sounds mixed in with what people call the ageless, or timeless, sound of Jane's Addiction." more on this story



KISS's Peter Criss Still Haunted By Cancer Fear
(Rock News Desk) Former Kiss drummer Peter Criss has been clear of cancer for four years, but he admits every time he feels pain the spectre of the killer disease returns to haunt him.

Criss was diagnosed with breast cancer, a form which many people don't realise can affect men as well as women. Since fighting off the illness the 65-year-old has dedicated time to spreading the word in the hope of saving lives.

"My checkup comes up next week. I'm real excited about it because I feel great, except for the old pains that come from drumming for fifty years," Criss tells Ultimate Classic Rock. "They say it's five years and you're out of the water. Every day I wake up and get a pain, I think of the Big C immediately. Because once it's in your body it's evil. more on this story



Cage The Elephant Live Release Coming
Cage The Elephant will release their first live DVD, Live From The Vic in Chicago, on December 13 on DVD/CD, BluRay disc, iTunes DVD download and digital audio download.

Look out for an edited 30-minute version of Live From The Vic In Chicago to premiere on MTV, MTV2, MTVU, MTV Hits and MTV.com the week of October 24th.

Cage The Elephant are back at it again with a NEW video for third single "Aberdeen" off their sophomore album Thank You, Happy Birthday. more on this story



Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund Gala Announced
The Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund has announced that its first Awards Gala will take place on Tuesday, November 1 at the Playboy Mansion in Los Angeles.

Awards will be presented to six distinguished honorees for their contributions to spreading awareness of Fund's important work.

A privately funded 501C3 charity organization dedicated to cancer prevention, research and education, the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund has already raised more than $500,000 in its short history. Monies raised have been committed to the cancer research work of the T. J. Martell Foundation for Cancer, AIDS and Leukemia Research and the gastric cancer research unit of the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, where Ronnie was treated for gastric cancer during the last six months of his life, according to Wendy Dio, widow of the late singer and Fund President/Founder. more on this story



Def Leppard To Change Things Up
(Rock News Desk) Def Leppard frontman Joe Elliott says the band are planning to evolve their set on their current tour – but not because a forum user kicked up a stink about them playing the same songs every night.

Elliott reacted with rage in August after someone he described as a "f**king moron" objected to Def Lep using the same setlist on a number of occasions.

At the time he explained it was because he was getting over the recent death of his father, so he was playing things safe. Now he allows there's an opportunity to add new and old songs to their performances – but it's a natural development and not kowtowing to the "internet brigade." more on this story



Paul Simon Plans Graceland 25th Anniversary Tour and Boxset
(Gibson) In celebration of the 25th anniversary of his Graceland album and its subsequent tour, Paul Simon is planning a deluxe box set rerelease of his 1986 album, according to Billboard. Simon will also reunite with some of the artists he toured with in 1987, including South African vocalists Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

This summer, Simon reunited with LBM to play a concert in South Africa. The experience was filmed for a documentary by Joe Berlinger (Some Kind of Monster), which may play at film festivals next year and will be included in the Graceland box set.

"The documentary," Simon said, "took me back to the artistic aspects and the political aspects of making Graceland and the controversy that surrounded it and how it was resolved, plus what remains of it and what we learn from it." more on this story



Cavo Call On Fans For Artwork Help
(Banana 101.5) Cavo are reaching out to their fans to help finish the artwork that will appear on their upcoming sophomore release 'Thick as Thieves'.

As we approach the early 2012 release date for Cavo's new album 'Thick as Thieves', the band is looking for help finishing the cover art.

They are asking fans to send in their photographs of the band from shows, meet & greets, etc. The pics will then be arranged in a collage type picture that will adorn the disc's cover. more on this story



Agents of Mercy Release New Concept Album
(Glass Onyon) Agents of Mercy have released their new concept album, 'The Black Forest,' which features one 56-minute mega-tune of prog bliss edited into separate slices

Now you've heard the term 'concept' a million times, but the new album by Agents of Mercy takes the idiom to a higher level, all the while pushing the prog envelope to its extremes.

'The Black Forest' is a surreal journey – a mysteriously glowing metaphor for a trip through dark, disturbing, scary times; a lifelong uncertain journey encompassed by greed, lust, hunger for power and money, eternal life, and mind control. And guess what – we're the prey!!! This is Agents of Mercy's first concept album with a longer song format. Tales of dark future times, seen through the eyes of a weary traveler in wiggly warped woods of our imaginary journey some 300 years ago. Elzbeth Bathory meets unholy rapists and flesheaters in a quiet town and deformed freaks of a traveling sinister circus haunt you at bedtime. Did you lock the door? Is the monster your neighbor? more on this story



Richard Gere's Guitar Gear Scores Big at Auction
(Gibson) A collection of vintage guitars owned by actor Richard Gere sold for nearly $1 million at auction on October 11. Fetching the highest sum was a 1960 Gibson Les Paul, which drew a winning bid of $98,500.

As reported by Bloomberg News, the proceedings, which were held at Christie's auction house, were attended by a roomful of guitar aficionados, among them Steve Miller and model-singer-songwriter Karen Elson. Miller's appearance was being filmed as part of a forthcoming documentary titled Burst: In Search of a Perfect Guitar, which chronicles the veteran player's quest to find a pristine 1959 Les Paul Standard Sunburst. "I wasn't tempted by anything," Miller said, following the proceedings. "I have 450 guitars."

Other notable instruments sold from Gere's collection included a 1958 Gibson Flying V, which went for $74,500, and a Gibson ES-335TD, which drew a winning bid of $9,500 more on this story



Cliff Richard Ponders Olivia Newton-John Vegas Gig
(Gibson) Sir Cliff Richard, who started out in the '50s as Britain's answer to Elvis (backed by guitar pioneer Hank B. Marvin and The Shadows), still has dreams of cracking the one territory where he's never made it big, the U.S.A.

He may have recently turned 70, but Cliff recently told Woman's Weekly magazine: "Olivia Newton-John and I have talked about joining forces to find a Las Vegas venue to perform at.

Elton John said recently, 'I can't understand why you never cracked it.' And I can't either. It's the land of rock 'n' roll – like Wimbledon is to tennis. more on this story



3 Added to Metal Suckfest
(Sub) 3 will be playing the second night of the inaugural Metal Suckfest, on Saturday November 5th in New York, NY at the Gramercy Theater..

MetalSucks co-founder Axl Rosenberg had the following to say about 3 being added to the Suckfest lineup:

"3 is one of the best progressive rock acts out there right now -- they absolutely strike the perfect balance between incredible musicianship and expert songwriting. And they are a band that NEEDS to be experienced live to be fully appreciated. They were right at the top of our wish list to play the inaugural Metal Suckfest, and we can't believe how lucky we are to actually have them on the bill!"




Savage Messiah Streaming New Song
(EAR) Savage Messiah have released an advance mix of a brand new song, which is taken from the band's forthcoming new album.

The new track, titled "The Accuser", is the first glimpse of Savage Messiah's new album, which is due to be released on Earache Records in early 2012. The album is being recorded with producer Scott Atkins at Grindstone Studios in Suffolk, England.Listen to the new track here

Savage Messiah frontman David Silver comments: "As we're heading off on tour this week, we thought it'd be cool to preview an advanced mix from the new record. We chose 'The Accuser' to be the first song we'd release, because it's the fastest, most aggressive song we've ever done, and one we look forward to playing live on the upcoming tour!! There's tons of variety of this album, but this is a good indication of where we're at right now as a band. We hope you enjoy headbanging to this slab of screaming heavy metal!!! See you on the road!" more on this story



Hour Of Penance To Begin New Album This Week
Hour Of Penance will be entering Cellar Studio in Rome on October 16th, with producer Stefano Morabito, to record their Prosthetic Records's debut, and fifth album overall.

Guitar player Giulio Moschini commented: "Following the tradition of releasing an album every two years, the time has come now and we're ready to hit the studio and record our fifth album. You've probably read the same words million of times on the band's press releases so I will not tell you how much better this album sounds and how much faster and more technical it is compared to the last one we did , BUT - we're f**king proud of this upcoming beast and we're sure you guys will love it! We know how much our fans are expecting from the new album so we worked as hard as we can to not disappoint any of them. Moreover, as some of you know, this will be the first album with a new line up and as you can imagine having a new singer and a new drummer helped us to renew and improve our sound, once again.. this will be like the rebirth of Hour of Penance, in a better shape of course !"

The band will be posting updates on their official Facabook page; "Like" the page now to keep up to speed! The new album is the follow up to last year's "Paradogma" (on Unique Leader) and will see a release in early 2012. More details of the release will be announced in the coming weeks.



Sony Ditch On Air On Sale
(Rock News Desk) Record label Sony have admitted their 'On Air On Sale' police of making singles available to buy the moment they're played on radio hasn't worked.

The firm have said they'll abandon the programme – and instead will deal with each release on its own merits.

The turnaround comes after bosses calculated that putting music on sale as soon as people heard it for the first time would minimize the effect of piracy. more on this story



Anarchy For Say Anything
Say Anything plan to call their forthcoming full-length album Anarchy, My Dear.

The album was recorded with …Is A Real Boy producer Tim O'Heir [All-American Rejects, Say Anything] and is expected to be released in early 2012.

Say Anything frontman Max Bemis has also announced a winter solo headlining tour, where he will share the stage with his wife and Eisley vocalist/guitarist, Sherri DuPree-Bemis. They will each play separate acoustic sets, as well as performing select songs together.



Singled Out: SS-Kaliert's Russian Roulette
Today Benni Whitley from SS-Kaliert tells us about "Russian Roulette" from their brand new album "Subzero". Here is the story:

The idea for "Russian Roulette" came from when we played four shows behind the iron curtain. We got such massive support from everyone at all four shows… more so than anywhere else in the entire world. Many unbelievable things happened to us that really left us speechless. Some were really shocking – (Nazi's making a bomb threat on the venue in St. Petersburg to sabotage the show, or running into cops who will pull you over and charge you money for not being Russian), but most things were positive (packed shows with very kind and appreciative fans – a lot of Vodka parties and meeting great people). "Russian Roulette" is our way of giving people hope who live in a country where minorities get stabbed to death in the subway by Nazi-skinheads and where cops are more corrupt than anywhere else. Russia is a country where unity within subcultures is more important than anywhere else. The song is also our way of saying "thank you" for the massive support we get there!

It's also a small tour report about those four days so that everybody involved in that tour will never forget this great time!

The original version of "Russian Roulette" was on a benefit compilation for the antifascist Action in Russia on True Rebel Records. The new version is on our current album SUBZERO on People Like You Records. Producer is Waldemar Sorychta – who leveled the song up to a maximum for the album.

VAN HALEN CANCEL PLANNED EUROPEAN TOUR DATES:

Van Halen have cancelled their planned 2012 Summer Tour of Europe before the dates were even announced. But because planning was so far along for the tour - the dates and venues were already locked in. But there has been no reason given to promoters for the cancellation. Simply that it was not going to go ahead.

The cancelled dates were:
May 28 Paris Zenith
May 30 Zuerich Hallenstadion
June 1 Barcelona Pala Jordi
June 3 Milano Arena Fiera
June 5 Dortmund Westfalenhalle
June 7 Sweden Rock Solvesborg
June 10 Download Festival Donnington
June 13 Stuttgart Schleyerhalle
June 15 Hellfest Clisson France
June 17 Fields Of Rock Festival Holland
June 19 Berlin O2 Arena
June 21 Prag
June 23 Grasspop Metal Meeting Belgium

That's it for now... but stay tuned as always...

B-Sides

Today's Stories


Son Says Gene Simmons Wedding Not A Scam
(TMZ) Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed's son Nick is ADAMANT their marriage is 100% legit despite criticism that they only tied the knot for reality show ratings.

22-year-old Nick claims he's definitely not surprised by the rumors telling TMZ, "Dad does tend to wear his shameless capitalism on his sleeve. But I was there when the cameras weren't. My parents went through a dark wood and came out still wanting to be together."

Gene and Shannon had been together for 28 years – before finally getting hitched October 1st with the wedding set to air on the new season of A&E's "Gene Simmons' Family Jewels".

Nick added, "All I can say about that is that my mother has the patience of a saint." more on this story



Watch Classic 1970 Black Sabbath Concert Online
(hennemusic) Two Black Sabbath-related books hit stores this week. Ozzy Osbourne's "Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy"and Tony Iommi's "Iron Man: My Journey Through Heaven And Hell With Black Sabbath."

Interest in both should be high, and maybe even moreso than usual, given the recent news that the original Sabbath lineup has reconnected and are working towards a possible reunion next year.

So…to celebrate the new books…and possible reunion, hennemusic has pulled a classic 1970 concert by Sabbath for fans to check out. The show was recorded in December, two months after the UK release of the band's second album, "Paranoid." more on this story



Are You Ready For Some Free Hank Williams Jr?
Hank Williams Jr. if offering fans a free download of his new singled "Keep The Change" on his website.

As of Tuesday evening the song had been downloaded close to 150,000 times in just over 24 hours according to an announcement.

Bocephus unleashed the song in response to media reports about his trademark Monday Night Football theme being removed from the broadcast following some controversial political comments on a cable news morning show. Grab the free song here and hear what he has to say



Hear Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience Rock A Classic
(hennemusic) Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience are back in the States, ready to kick off their fall tour today in Riverside, California.

The dates follow the success of JBLZE's 2010 and spring 2011 trips, where Jason and company rocked cities with their versions of material from the Led Zeppelin catalogue.

On Monday, Jason and the guys stopped by KLOS' Mark & Brian morning show to chat, and they also pulled out a Zeppelin classic - "Going To California" – while they're IN California. Check it out



Tragedy, Death and Grunge For Def Leppard
(hennemusic) For a band that has faced as many challenges through their career as Def Leppard has, part 7 of the ongoing Leppard/fan Q&A is a doozy.

Singer Joe Elliott and guitarist Phil Collen answer the latest question – "what has been the biggest obstacle for you to overcome as a group?"

"Probably [drummer] Rick [Allen]'s accident," begins Joe. "Possibly [guitarist] Steve [Clark]'s death…possibly grunge music." Check out the video here



The Devil Wears Prada Release Zombie Slay Game
(HER) The Devil Wears Prada have entered the mobile gaming world with the release of their new "Zombie Slay" game.

Zombie Slay is a first-person, multi-level, action game specifically designed for mobile devices, that integrates all five songs from the band's 2010 release, Zombie EP.

"Zombie Slay" challenges gamers to survive and save survivors in a post-apocalyptic world by killing as many zombies as possible. The game features randomly-generated gameplay at all levels that challenges both casual and hardcore gamers and promotes return-to-game play, an OpenFeint interface that enables players to compete against each other anywhere in the world, and social media integration. more on this story



Death Cab for Cutie Rolling Out Remix EP Details
Atlantic Records sent over news that Death Cab for Cutie will release their "Keys And Codes Remix EP" next month and are rolling out the details.

The collection features seven new remixed tracks from the band's new album, "Codes And Keys." Beginning today, the band will reveal one remix every week leading up to the EP's release on Tuesday, November 22nd.

The first remix, "Doors Unlocked and Open" by Australian electronic band Cut Copy, premiered this morning on the band's website, http://www.deathcabforcutie.com, and is currently available to purchase digitally. more on this story



Download Little Big Town's Shut Up Train Video For Free
Fans will be able to download Little Big Town's new music video for the song "Shut Up Train" for free.

The video has been selected as the iTunes "Free Video of the Week" and you can grab it through next Tuesday, October 18th.

According to the announcement, "Shut Up Train" has been a fan-favorite since album release, which is one reason the band chose to create such an honest, stripped-down approach to the look and feel of the video. Get it here



The Day Sid Stabbed Nancy?
(Gibson) On this day in 1978, While living at the Chelsea Hotel in New York City, Sex Pistol Sid Vicious called the police to say that someone had stabbed his girlfriend Nancy Spungen. He was arrested and charged with her murder and placed in the detox unit of a New York prison. Gibson takes a look back: Just before lunchtime on October 12, 1978, the Chelsea Hotel in New York City would become the site of one of rock and roll's greatest tragedies. Sid Vicious, of Sex Pistols notoriety, and his girlfriend Nancy Spungen had retreated into reclusive heroin-fueled oblivion as Vicious' rock and roll persona finally caught up with him and all around him.

Vicious was the toast of New York's punk scene. The motorcycle jacket, the chains, the skinny heroin frame and that post-Elvis lip snarl had made Vicious the best-known of the anti-social Sex Pistols. Sid and Nancy were the punk John and Yoko, except rather than propagating peace and love; they chose a darker, drug-laced existence to make their mark in rock and roll mythology.

When a hotel worker went into Room 100 of the Chelsea Hotel he discovered a half-dressed, blood-covered body of a young woman lying on the floor, a deep wound in her stomach. The bed was also covered in blood. The hotel called an ambulance and police searched the room, discovering drugs, drug paraphernalia, a blood-stained hunting knife and Nancy's boyfriend Sid wandering the hallway in a state of confusion.

Sid's story of events was inconclusive. more on this story



Diddy Credit Card Number and Phone Numbers Posted Online
(TMZ) Diddy is on a mission to find the person who stole the numbers to his personal American Express Black Card and posted them on a web site this week ... TMZ has learned.

Earlier this week, someone who clearly has a beef with Diddy, posted copies of the rap mogul's super exclusive credit card on a website, along with his passport and private phone numbers.

The website where the info is posted seems to make a vague reference to the ridiculous rumors that Diddy is a member of the illuminati ... a secret society rumored to run the world.

Sources close to Diddy tell us ... he is aware of the situation and has launched an internal investigation to find the person responsible.

A rep for Diddy had no comment.

Today's Day In Pop!

Today's Full Report


Fake Beyonce Baby Bump Debunked- Michael Jackson Death Prosecution Winding Down- UK's Adele Dominates American Music Awards- Michael Douglas for Liberace- more
(Jam!) A representative for Beyonce has shot down bizarre rumors suggesting the R&B superstar is wearing a prosthetic baby bump after her bulging stomach appeared to briefly deflate during an interview on Australian TV.

(AP) Prosecutors plan to wrap up their case against the doctor charged in Michael Jackson's death by calling three experts intended to help jurors make sense of the complex medical evidence they have been presented. more

In related news, BBC reports Michael Jackson could not have given himself the powerful anaesthetic that caused his death, the doctor who performed the singer's autopsy testifies. more

(BBC) Michael Douglas and Matt Damon will star in Behind the Candelabra, a movie based on the life of flamboyant US musician Liberace. The film, which will be directed by Steven Soderbergh, is expected to start shooting next summer. more

Figure this one out. A British singer dominates the American Music Awards… it's not like these award shows have credibility but they could at least pretend to live up to their name… (AP) Adele continued her current pop reign with a leading four nominations for the 2011 American Music Awards announced on Tuesday, edging out the likes of Katy Perry and Lady Gaga. more

(AP) A collection of American vintage guitars owned by actor Richard Gere has fetched nearly $1 million at auction in New York City. more

(FMQB) Taylor Swift has been chosen to receive the Woman of the Year Award at the 2011 Billboard Women in Music event, which will be held on December 2 in New York City. more

(BBC) Oscar-winning actor Javier Bardem has confirmed that he will play a villain in the next James Bond film. The 42-year-old, who is married to fellow Spanish star Penelope Cruz, revealed his casting while appearing on US news programme Nightline. more

(NME) Girls Aloud's Sarah Harding has reportedly checked into rehab to deal with 'alcohol and depression issues'. The singer and actress, a regular face on London's party circuit, apparently hit "rock bottom" after splitting from her fiancé Tom Crane last month, according to The Sun. more




Singled Out: Joe Galaxy's Crazy Sexy
Today Joe Galaxy tells us about his new single "Crazy Sexy" which will be on his upcoming debut album. Here is the story:

"Crazy Sexy" was the first song I recorded after signing with Still Hustlin', Inc. earlier this year. I hit the studio with the label boss and flagship artist, Renegade Foxxx, and we knew going in we wanted to create a song that would be perfect for the club. We wanted something really sexy that would be an anthem for the women. They can listen to it when they're getting ready and then later that night once everyone gets going at the club the track hits and just captures the energy and puts everyone in the right mood. So going in we knew we had to bring some serious energy.

We started off tinkering with the beats. I wanted to create a rave sound, audibly take people to a rave. Renegade and I bounced around a few ideas and played around with the sounds until we found a beat we both thought was perfect. Once we had the beat we got to writing.

Originally, the lyrics were very raw, very hardcore…like a lot of club records out these days. After we stepped away from it for a bit we realized we didn't want to go that route, we wanted to create a club record that really empowered the ladies, let them know how special they are. That's how we came to "you're a sexy chick, I wanna love you." From there the record completely opened up.

The verses are fun and I wanted to match the beat and the attitude of the whole song. Getting crazy, having fun, being sexy. We wanted to show the listener something without explicitly saying it and I think we succeeded. Beyond that, I wanted to make a futuristic record. This is a club track from 2022. I'm not in this game to rehash old hits, I want to make something different and that's what "Crazy Sexy" is all about.

All in all, the track took about three days to make and definitely is a hint of what's to come on my album. Renegade and I collaborate amazingly and as you can see from "Crazy Sexy" the results are on another level. Stay tuned for more!

Hearing is believing. Now that you know the story behind the song, listen for yourself right here!



Usher Coming to DVD and Blu-Ray
(Kayos) Eagle Rock have set a November 1st DVD and Blu-Ray release date for Usher's OMG Tour.

The 104-minute OMG Tour—Live From London, filmed in April of this year in spectacular high-definition with state-of-the-art sound—DTS Surround Sound, Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Digital Stereo and DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Digital Stereo is a virtual tour-de-force of exacting stagecraft.

With album sales in the multi-millions, this supremely talented singer/songwriter/dancer/actor/entrepreneur promises an incredible live experience. Touring in support of his landmark seventh album, Raymond V. Raymond, which topped Billboard's R&B chart for seven straight weeks, Usher pulls out all the stops in this incredible concert. more on this story



Two New Neal McCoy Releases Coming
Neal McCoy fans have two new releases to look forward to, a live CD and DVD being released in November and a new studio album in January. We were sent the following details:

In November, DPTV Media, the multi-million dollar entertainment label of WTVS Detroit Public Television, will release a concert CD and DVD collaboration pairing McCoy and his band with the iconic Les Brown Jr. and His Band of Renown.

"Music of Your Life with Les Brown Jr. and His Band of Renown, Starring Neal McCoy, and Special Guests Charley Pride and Janie Fricke" includes many of Neal McCoy's Top 10 hits and American Songbook standards. A 13-song CD and 21-song DVD are due 11/8/2011, and will be available through traditional, online and digital outlets across North America. more on this story



Christina Perri To Deliver A Thousand Years Next Week
Christina Perri's new single, "A Thousand Years," will be released digitally next Tuesday, October 18th.

The song is included on "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 Original Motion Picture Soundtrack," which will hit stores and online on Tuesday, November 8th.

In advance of the track release, a 30-second preview will be available on The Twilight Saga Facebook page (Facebook.com/Twilight) starting this Thursday, October 10th, featured on a special "Soundtrack" tab. more on this story



The Appleseed Cast Map Out Fall Tour Dates
The Appleseed Cast will be hitting the road in November for a string of fall tour dates.

The group will be touring in support of their Middle States EP, released June 7th, 2011 via Graveface Records.

The tour will take the band throughout the mid- and northwest, launching November 4th at the Triple Rock in Minneapolis, MN and wrapping up November 18th at Boonies in Sioux Falls, SD. more on this story



Rihanna, Lady Gaga and More Get Chipmunked
Atlantic Records has set a November 15th release date for "Alvin And The Chipmunks: Chipwrecked – Music From The Motion Picture."

The album features songs by a number of today's top artists, performed in inimitable fashion by the one and only Chipmunks.

Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked arrives in theatres nationwide on December 16th. more on this story



Austin Powers Villain Murder Investigation
(TMZ) The scumbag who played Random Task in "Austin Powers" has been isolated from other inmates at Wasco State Prison ... after allegedly murdering his cellmate Monday ... TMZ has learned.

Prison officials tell us ... Joe Son has been placed in solitary confinement for the time being, citing "safety reasons."

We're told Son was originally housed in an area reserved for new prisoners -- but after he was named a suspect in the death of his cellmate, Son will be on his own while prison officials investigate.

During his solitary confinement, Son will be allowed to enjoy 10 hours of yard time a week -- and he'll also have regular shower privileges.

As we previously reported, Son is already locked up on a life sentence ... for participating in the brutal rape and torture of a young woman back in 1990. more on this story



Jessica Alba Denies Belly Bandit
(TMZ) Jessica Alba is suing the company behind a popular weight loss device for women who've had babies -- claiming her name and likeness was used, without permission, to push sales of something called a Belly Bandit.

In the lawsuit, Jessica says the company has "prominently featured and posted a photograph of Alba, and listed her name under the 'Celebrity Testimonials' section of their Website."

According to the suit, Belly Bandit's packaging even features an endorsement that says, "Jessica Alba's #2 Secret for a Fast Post Pregnancy Slimdown!"

Jessica's suing for more than a million dollars in damages -- and also wants a cut of the cash Belly Bandit made using her name. more on this story



Mel Gibson in Traffic Accident
(TMZ) Mel Gibson caused a minor traffic accident this week, when his front bumper met somebody's back bumper in Phoenix, Arizona.

We're told no one was injured -- a cop came to the scene but no one was cited. Both vehicles sustained minor damage. After exchanging insurance information, both parties went their separate ways.

We're told Mel is in town to visit his father, who is hospitalized in Phoenix. Mel hasn't had the best luck on the road, just last year he crashed his 2008 Maserati in L.A. But cops say he acted like a total gentleman after the wreck.

Today's Day in Rock

Aeros-mac: Steven Tyler Fleetwood Mac Supergroup Hopes
Billboard.com caught up with Fleetwood Mac legend Mick Fleetwood and learned that Mick has hopes that his supergroup with Aerosmith Steven Tyler may go beyond their one-off tribute.

The supergroup is called M.O.B and features Aerosmith's Steven Tyler, Fleetwood Mac co-founder John McVie and guitarist Jonny Lang. M.O.B. got together to record ZZ's "Sharp Dressed Man' for the new tribute album to the legendary Texas rockers.

Billboard reports: Fleetwood harbors an ambition to reassemble The M.O.B. (which he says is not a specific acronym) in the future. "I have musical fantasies all the time," he says with a laugh, "but we had a lot of fun doing this, and I truly, truly do have a vision of somewhere, somehow walking on stage and actually putting something together with (the group). It's nothing on a boiler plate right now, but it's certainly something in my mind, and I think everybody else's, too." A lot more from Mick here



Staind Not Breaking Up
(Rock News Desk) Staind have shouted down rumors they're about to break up. The band's future became the subject of fan speculation after drummer Jon Wysocki left in May. More stories circulated after a documentary about the making of their recent self-titled album appeared to show an outfit dissolving in acrimony.

The success of frontman Aaron Lewis' country music side project has provided yet more grist to the rumour mill. But he and guitarist Mike Mushok say Staind have a long future ahead of them – although Lewis will be taking time out to work on his solo projects.

The band are currently touring Europe and Lewis explains what will happen afterwards: "I go back to doing my solo stuff and filming for my hunting TV show. After Thanksgiving Staind goes out for a couple of weeks.

"Then in January and February I finish up my solo stuff then we start our world tour in February. Then we're back for a States tour, then back to Europe, then I'll come back here and do something on the solo side. Then a Staind headlining tour in the States." But where did the signals get crossed?



Crue Fans Get Motley Screwed
(Rock News Desk) Scammers who promoted a fake Motley Crue concert managed to rake in $60,000 before fans were alerted to the fraud.

Over 1500 people bought tickets priced around $40 for a non-existent show in Jakarta, Indonesia, advertised last month.

On September 21 national media announced Crue would make their first visit to the country on October 8. A day later the band released a statement saying they had no such plans – but tickets had been on sale since August and hundreds of fans had paid up by the time word got around. more on this story



Guns N' Roses Fire Back
(hennemusic) A day after Rock In Rio 4 promoter Roberto Medina called out Axl Rose for Guns N' Roses late start at this year's festival, a band representative has offered up the group's side of the story.

Commenting on GNR's late start, Medina told Globo.com's Extra, "Axl came very late and did not respect the public," citing three things in particular: "I found a lack of commitment, respect [for] the public, [and] the huge delay (they were more than two hours [late]."

"Guns N' Roses would like to set the record straight on Rock In Rio," reports the band's publicist. "The festival's inadequate production and the downpour of rain delayed the event. Anyone who was there knows that System of A Down did not leave the stage until close to 1:15 in the morning. System's extensive stage production did not finish coming offstage until 1:45 a.m. GNR's production was up and ready to go at 2:15 a.m. Axl got to the venue before 1 a.m. and he came ready to go onstage. The inadequate cover of the Rock In Rio stage caused a further delay when the soundboard went down due to water damage and was replaced as quick as possible. GNR walked onstage at 2:40 a.m. and played for two-and-a-half hours in the pouring rain. GNR would never seek to intentionally disrespect anyone, especially their fans." more on this story



Jane's Addiction Previewing New Album Online
(hennemusic) Jane's Addiction return next week with "The Great Escape Artist," their first studio album in eight years, but you can hear it today.

The project was produced by Rich Costey (Muse, Interpol, Franz Ferdinand), with help from TV On The Radio's Dave Sitek, who contributes songwriting, programming and bass on the album.

Ahead of the October 18 street date, fans can preview the full album now on iTunes, as the band has teamed up with the brand to stream their new disc in its entirety. The project was mastered specifically for iTunes in order to optimize sound quality when downloaded. more on this story



Slipknot's Corey Taylor Solo Tour Details
Roadrunner sent over the details and dates for Slipknot and Stone Sour frontman Corey Taylor's upcoming solo tour:

The idea for the tour sprang from an intimate set of UK gigs that Taylor recently played to launch his bestselling book Seven Deadly Sins, as well as his speaking engagement at Oxford University this summer.

Taylor will perform originals and some choice covers acoustically; will read selections from the book; and take questions from the audience. Billed as "An Evening With Corey Taylor," these shows will be a rare opportunity for many fans to interact with Taylor in this intimate a setting, and vice versa. more on this story



Dr. Ozzy Osbourne Launches Seven-Day Guide To Better Living
Ozzy Osbourne is celebrating the release of his new book, 'Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy: Advice From Rock's Ultimate Survivor,' in an unusual way.

Ozzy has has taken to his twitter and facebook pages with "Dr. Ozzy's Seven-Day Guide To Better Living." The weeklong series of free advice and helpful hints launched yesterday, with followers being treated to words of wisdom from the book. Dr. Ozzy revealed his first better-living tip today:

"Always get a 2nd opinion--even if it means calling the doctor's cell from 6ft underground to ask if he's 100% sure you're dead." Follow Dr Ozzy here



Paul Simon Plans Graceland Tour- Beatles Classic Album in Danger Danger- Pop Punk Plagiarism?- Ringworm Not Breaking Up- Get Warped 2012- more
We have a short digest for you today. We start off with this: (NME) Paul Simon is set to take his iconic 1986 album 'Graceland' on the road next year, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the 1987 tour of the album. The tour is currently being planned and will see Simon hitting the road with Ladysmith Black Mambazo, who featured on the album and toured the songs with him. more

(SRX) Former Danger Danger guitarist Andy Timmons is about to release a acoustic version of The Beatles' classic album 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band'. The Andy Timmons Band, featuring Mike Daane on bass and Rob Avsharian on drums, will be returning to Italy for 10 shows to celebrate the release of the new CD beginning on October 14th. more

(PNO) Jim Sylvia, a Los Angeles-based tattoo artist alleges that the artwork for the recently announced four-way split from Bayside, Saves The Day, I Am The Avalanche, and Transit features artwork plagiarized from an original tattoo he designed for Luis Dubuc of The Secret Handshake. more

(Submitted) Talenthouse has partnered with The Who to influence all animators and filmmakers to help them create their next music video for their track '5.15.' The video will pay homage to the 'Mod Culture' of the early 1970s, so inspiration from the era will be an essential element of the winning selection. more

Despite tweets to the contrary, Lambgoat reassures Ringworm fans that a source has confirmed to them that the band is NOT breaking up. They're in fact working on plans for 2012 right now. more

Hardcore Superstar just released a brand new song called "We Don't Need A Cure" via iTunes. more

(The 1st Five) Expect Torche's new album to be released by Volcom Entertainment. The band issued official word that they are now with Volcom and working on a new record. more

TesseracT has cancelled part of their European tour. Here's the official word: "Due to illness we're having to cancel the first part of the 'Lowering the Tone' tour in Europe with Chimp Spanner." more

The Vans Warped tour revealed the dates for next year's trek. The bands will be announced in December. Grab the dates here




Only Took Blink-182 30 Seconds To Make Up
(Rock News Desk) Blink-182 put their differences behind them in 30 seconds of conversation at Travis Barker's home, the drummer says.

The band went on indefinite hiatus amid acrimony in 2005 and the members felt there was a distinct possibility they'd never regroup.

But when Tom DeLonge and Mark Hoppus visited Barker following the plane crash which nearly killed him and took the lives of four others, the sparks of their old relationship reignited in moments.

And in retrospect, the drummer can't see what had caused the fallout in the first place. more on this story



The Muppets Doing Nirvana's Teen Spirit
(Gibson) After making its mark as an alt-rock anthem 20 years ago, Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" has been re-appropriated by everyone from Patti Smith to the folks behind Moulin Rouge. Later this fall, the song might get its most startling reworking when it's delivered by some of our Muppet pals in the new film, The Muppets.

Ultimate Classic Rock reports that the movie's soundtrack includes the Nirvana track performed by The Muppets Barbershop Quartet. Seeing as it's been reported that Dave Grohl has a cameo in the movie, we're wondering if the two instances aren't connected.

The film stars Jason Segel and Amy Adams, who attempt to help Kermit, Gonzo and the gang save their theater from evil oilman Tex Richman (played by Chris Cooper). The movie opens on November 23. more on this story



Shadows Fall Livestream Today
Shadows Fall will be broadcasting live via Livestream today, Wednesday, October 12th at 5pm EST to give fans a first exclusive look at the band as they begin the creative process of their new record.

That new album will be coming out on a new label with the news that Shadows Fall have inked an exclusive, multi-album, North American deal with Razor & Tie. The label sent this over about the singing, the new album and more ways to catch them working on the new effort:

This week, the band begins recording on a new studio album at Zing Studios in Westfield, MA. The band's seventh official studio record (slated for release spring of 2012) sees the band reuniting with long-time friend, producer/engineer and Killswitch Engage/Times Of Grace guitarist, Adam Dutkiewicz. Adam D., who has previously helmed the boards on albums by All That Remains, As I Lay Dying, Unearth, The Devil Wears Prada, and Every Time I Die, is also intimately involved in the writing of the new Shadows Fall material. more on this story



Paul McCartney Expands On the Run Tour
(Gibson) Paul McCartney, who married Nancy Shevell in London last weekend, is preparing for a new 11-show tour.

According to Billboard.com, McCartney's expanded On the Run tour will take him to Italy, France, Germany, England and then Sweden, Finland and Russia, as well as the United Arab Emirates – where he has never played before.

The still-fab ex-Beatle will then return to Britain to close the tour with a gig in his hometown of Liverpool on December 20. He said in a statement, "Playing live is one of the most exciting parts of my job. My audiences seem to get better each year, and the band and I love the buzz and feedback they give us." more on this story



Pantera's Vinnie Paul Jams With Sammy Hagar
(hennemusic) Sammy Hagar brought his own house down Tuesday night in Cabo, and hennemusic carried the show live for fans around the globe.

Hagar, along with the Wabos and special guests, played an 80-minute set heavy on hits, classics and fan favorites at the Red Rocker's club, the Cabo Wabo Cantina.

With Michael Anthony on bass, Victor Johnson on guitar and drummer David Lauser, the guys rocked through Hagar hits like "Can't Drive '55" and "Heavy Metal," and the classic Montrose track, "Rock Candy." It was rotating drummer night for the Wabos, who were joined by guests Vinnie Paul (Pantera, Damageplan, Hellyeah) and new Chickenfoot sticksman Kenny Aronoff. more on this story



John 5 Scores New Rob Zombie Movie
(Banana 101.5) Rob Zombie has been slow-rolling details for his upcoming witch film 'The Lords of Salem', the latest of which says that his guitarist John 5 will compose and record the musical score.

Rob Zombie has always taken a family approach when making films. Not in the sense that he makes movies for families (quite the opposite really), but that he often works within the same circle of people — casting friends and actors he's previously worked with. So when it came time to recruit someone to score his upcoming witchcraft horror tale, he didn't have to look very far.

Zombie announced that his guitarist John 5 will handle the musical duties for the 2012 film. John has released several solo albums and honed his dark sound over the years working with acts like Marilyn Manson and Rob Halford. more on this story



Five Finger Death Punch Won't Rock Kimmel
Loudwire has bad news for Five Finger Death Punch fans hoping to catch the band on Jimmy Kimmel Live:

The band has canceled their appearance on the show which was set to be filmed today and broadcast on October 26th.

Loudwire reports: With their 'Share The Welt' tour kicking off this weekend in San Francisco, Calif., the band is engrossed in pre-production and working night and day to ensure that this is the biggest, baddest stage show the band has ever delivered. Some words from Jason Hook about to expect here



4 Discs of Unreleased Frank Zappa Coming on Halloween
MSO sent over some big news for Frank Zappa fans who will be getting a very tasty treat this Halloween: Forty years ago on October 11, 1971, Frank Zappa & The Mothers Of Invention performed two marathon, full-length shows at New York City's famed Carnegie Hall.

This is your ticket directly to the Vault, and to four CDs of the music made THEN and you can have it NOW for the first time since it was first performed LIVE by FZ with Mark Volman, Howard Kaylan, Ian Underwood, Don Preston, Jim Pons & Aynsley Dunbar. The Zappa Family Trust announced the pre-sale today via their www.zappa.com website with an estimated ship date on Halloween.

Headed by Zappa's widow Gail Zappa, the ZFT administers exclusively the extensive and iconic legacy of the Composer, Musician, Bandleader and Filmmaker. ZAPPA was posthumously inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 and received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997. Frank Zappa, American composer, was born in 1940 and died in 1993. Carnegie Hall…warts and all…on Vaulternative Records…in glorious mono. As Gail Zappa says, "We tweaked and we tweezed and did everything possible to be certain this does not sound like a breakfast cereal gone mad somewhere in the Van Allen Belt. I am happy to say The Mud Shark Legend Continues."





Snow Patrol To Return With Fallen Empires
(IDJ) Snow Patrol have set a January 10, 2012 release date for their sixth studio album "Fallen Empires."

"We wanted to make a massively ambitious record," says singer Gary Lightbody in a release, "a record unlike any other we've made before… We started writing songs that were more playful, even rawer than before - we were brave enough to do what we wanted as a band, rather than what convention dictated to us."

Snow Patrol will toast the album release with a performance on "The Late Show with David Letterman" on Jan. 9. "Fallen Empires," follows the band's 2008 effort, "A Hundred Million Suns," which has sold 209,000 copies in the U.S. according to Nielsen SoundScan.



Phishy New Year's
Phish plan to close out 2011 with a four night stand in New York City at Madison Square Garden.

Phish will be playing four consecutive nights - December 28, 29, 30 and 31 - at the famed venue.

The band has played 19 shows to date at the legendary venue, beginning with its December 30, 1994 concert and including last year's three-night stand, which concluded on New Year's Day. more on this story



Foo Fighters Up For Token American Music Award
(hennemusic) If you blink you'll miss it, but there were a few rockers nominated for the 2011 American Music Awards, as the full list was announced on Tuesday.

Typical of most industry award shows, the bulk of the categories - and nominees - are rap, hip-hop, RnB, and pop-based (aren't they all pretty much the same category now?). [Rock and metal actually outsell the first three of those genres, which tend to get all the mainstream media attention.]

Look hard enough and you'll find a single token nod to rock. Up for "Alternative Rock Music Artist" are the Foo Fighters, The Black Keys, and Mumford & Sons. more on this story



David J Not Long For This World
Bauhaus and Love & Rockets star David J has pushed back the release of his new solo album "Not Long For This World."

No reason for the delay was given but the move from a October 18th release date was billed as a tie in with Halloween with "It's the season where darkness becomes beautiful, and beautiful darkness is just one of this legend's many trademarks. David has set November 1 as the release date for his eighth offering as a solo artist, and it's perfectly apropos."

Other big news from the David J camp involved a special version of the release and a special live performance: David has prepared a one-of-a-kind piece of artwork representing each song on the record. He's signing each piece, and listeners can purchase them as part of a special, limited edition vinyl package of the album. This vinyl is a double LP with an ornate gatefold, and it also boasts one extra song, "Lorca's Death," only available on vinyl. For collectors, this is a must-have. more on this story



Alex Van Halen 1980 World Invasion Tour Kit In The Rock Hall
(hennemusic) One of Alex Van Halen's historic drum kits is the latest acquisition of Cleveland's Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame And Museum.

The set, which was used on more than 100 shows during Van Halen's 1980 World Invasion Tour in support of the "Women and Children First" album, is now on display at the Cleveland site.

Alex, with the assistance of drum manufacturers, custom-designed many of his elaborate drum sets and this white Ludwig kit is one of them. Featuring two articulated bass drums (each more than five feet long), an assortment of floor toms, tom-toms, a gong and a myriad of cymbals, this is a "sight to behold." more on this story



Mastodon Heading Across The Pond
(Gibson) Those heavy metal warriors from Atlanta, Mastodon, have announced a U.K. tour for February 2012.

Mastodon will play six dates on the tour in support of their new album, Hunter, which was released last month.

Britain's NME.com reports that the mini-tour kicks off inBristol at the O2 Academy on February 5 before climaxing on February 11, when the band headlines London's O2 Academy Brixton, the biggest gig of their career. more on this story



Jack Osbourne To Be A Father
Loudwire has this bit of news from The Osbournes: Ozzy Osbourne's son Jack is expecting a baby with his new fiancee, actress Lisa Stelly.

The son of the Prince of Darkness revealed the news during an appearance this evening (Oct. 11) on 'Piers Morgan Tonight.'

"I'm excited," Jack told Morgan, adding, "I'm a little nervous." Jack and Lisa only announced their engagement a few weeks ago. more on this story



The Manchester Connection To Showcase The Smiths, New Order, The Stone Roses Rarities
(Noble) The Movie Poster Art Gallery has announced an exhibition of original and rare music posters entitled "The Manchester Connection", a celebration of Manchester's legendary renaissance in musical and design creativity that exploded in the wake of the Sex Pistols' legendary 1976 Free Trade Hall gig.

The art exhibition highlights some of the great designs Factory commissioned from Peter Saville, Central Station Design, Ben Kelly and 8vo, along with the equally inspired design concepts of Morrissey for The Smiths, and the Stone Roses' guitarist John Squire.

Highlights include rare original music posters from The Smiths, New Order, A Certain Ratio, Happy Mondays, The Stone Roses, The Haçienda, plus an ultra rare poster of Joy Division's debut album "Unknown Pleasures," rare sleeve proofs of The Smiths, A Certain Ratio, New Order, and a unique Morrissey hand-annotated sleeve proof for his album "Your Arsenal," plus rare artefacts including the original FAC51 embosser used at the HAÇIENDA, the original "Gay Traitor" bar menu poster from the HAÇIENDA. more on this story



Band of Skulls Now Vagrant
Band of Skulls have inked with Vagrant who will release the group's sophomore album in 2012.

Prior to that on December 6th, the band will release the first single 'The Devil Takes Care Of His Own' off of the new album which will be available as a download at iTunes and other digital download stores.

Following the success of their debut, Baby Darling Doll Face Honey, the band retreated to a studio in Norfolk UK to begin writing the follow-up. more on this story



The Armed Giving Away New EP Download
(Monolith) The Armed are offering a free download of their brand new self-produced EP, Young & Beautiful, on their official website.

Mixed by Kurt Ballou (Converge, Trap Them, Coliseum), in addition to the title track, the five song EP contains titles such as: "Pushing Daisies", "Maize Maze", "You Have Died" and "Mujahoudni" a song that features Coheed and Cambria's - Chris Pennie manning the drum throne.

"I've known Tony and Aaron for quite some time. When they sent me the track, I was very excited to dive in," states Pennie. "I always look forward to the challenges that they present from their wide ranging taste in music, large vocabulary of playing and most important to me, sense of urgency in the song. This on top of being great friends made for a very fun, comfortable, and inspiring time of making music."

Alex Van Halen’s 1980 Drumkit at Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum

Van Halen burst on the rock scene in 1978 like a larger-than-life, hard rocking, non-stop party, and channeled that energy into a seminal debut. Ostensibly, the band had two frontmen: leonine lead vocalist David Lee Roth and volcanic guitarist Edward Van Halen. Both possessed the charisma and talent to be the focal point of a solid rock band, but together, they created an undeniable dynamic that quickly captivated legions of loyal fans. Anchoring the unit was the powerhouse rhythm section of bassist Michael Anthony and drummer Alex Van Halen, Eddie’s brother. By the time Van Halen arrived in the studio to record their debut, they had honed their skills honestly, playing nightclubs, parties and high school gymnasiums across Southern California. It was during those formative years of touring that the band learned the value of showmanship – and how to win audiences all over the world with it.

As Van Halen grew in popularity, the production quality of their stage show followed suit as an increasingly flamboyant rock and roll spectacle. Alex Van Halen used the drum kit not only as a percussion instrument, but also as a visual art form. Working with various drum manufacturers, Alex custom designed enormous and elaborate drum kits that reflected the group’s musical sensibility and provided Alex the platform to shine.

After many years of planning, we are finally bringing one of Alex Van Halen’s historic drum kits to be exhibited in Cleveland at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. The kit pictured above was used on Van Halen’s 1980 world Invasion Tour in support of the Women and Children First album, joining Alex as the band performed more than 100 shows. The white Ludwig kit features two custom articulated bass drums, each more than five feet long, in addition to an impressive array of floor toms, tom-toms, a gong and myriad cymbals. This kit is a sight to behold and is exhibited on the Museum’s lower level.

Many thanks to Alex Van Halen and his drum tech John Douglas for all their help and dedication in bringing this tremendous item to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.

Today's Day In Pop!

TLC Singer Had Brain Tumor- Tony Bennett Saw Lady Gaga Naked- Beyonce Accused of Plagiarism- Amy Winehouse Book- Drake Album Delayed- more


(FMQB) TLC singer T-Boz has been very public about her battle with sickle cell anemia, and now she revealed in a CNN interview that she had a brain tumor removed. "I started having headaches. They were so frequent; something was wrong," T-Boz told CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta more

(Jam!) Tony Bennett was left aghast after walking in on Lady Gaga's naked photo shoot during the recording of their duet of The Lady Is A Tramp for Bennett's new Duets II album. more

(BBC) Mitch Winehouse is to publish a memoir about his daughter Amy, with the proceeds going to the charity set up in the singer's name. more

(Jam!) Beyonce is facing fresh allegations she plagiarized a Belgian choreographer's dance moves in her new music video Countdown. The superstar premiered the song in America on Thursday and has been accused of copying a routine more

(FMQB) Drake has informed fans that his sophomore album, Take Care, has been pushed back from October 24 to November 15, due to a delay in clearing samples. more

Adele is adamant the throat issues which prompted her to cancel her U.S. tour were caused by her talkative nature, and not her smoking habit. more

(BBC) Rihanna scores the sixth UK chart-topping single of her career with We Found Love. more

(BBC) Ugly Betty star America Ferrera is to make her London stage debut in the long-running musical Chicago, it has been announced. more




Singled Out: Candice Night's Call it Love
Blackmore's Night's Candice Night is releasing her new solo album "Reflections" today and to celebrate we asked her to tell us a little bit about the first single "Call it Love". Here is the story:

Although I released Call It Love from my cd Reflections as my 1st radio single, it was a song that I had written and recorded years before in a completely different style than what wound up on the cd. Originally, when I first sat down with a producer to breathe life into it from the skeletal way that I write, (just piano and voice), his approach was in a very different vein than I heard it in my head. It wound up turning out more basic, even slightly jazzy, and my original vision of the song was worlds away from the direction that the producer brought it to.

So when I decided to compile some songs for my 1st solo cd release, Call It Love was one of the ones I really wanted to try to approach again with the hopes of recreating it in the way that I had heard it in my head from the start. It was important for me to be able to add this song on the cd because it was so true to so many situations I had been through or seen through friends and family, lyrically. Just a simple storyline of true love, yet as we go through relationships, even if they feel so right often we are scarred by what we have been through before, or don't want to put a scary big word like "love" to define our feelings because it is the admission of something so much deeper, and that makes us vulnerable. So we call these feelings anything else to escape the gravity of the scary love situation, which makes it so much easier to run away, if we need to , and escape is an easy way out. Serious emotions can be frightening and confining. We call it luck or "fate that our paths have crossed", or "its a dream to be with someone like ..." and finally when we are ready we take that scary leap and actually use the "L" word. Love. Then somehow it all fits into place.

With my BN producer, we worked out the instrumentation that I originally heard in my head, added a few parts in the arrangement, some Beatle-esque background harmonies to the bridge and finally it took shape to be the song I always knew it could be.

Now that you know the story behind the song, learn more about the album right here!



Terrell Owens Rushed To The Hospital
(TMZ) NFL star Terrell Owens was hospitalized in L.A. last week -- after someone called 911 to report a medical emergency at an apartment where the football player had been staying ... TMZ has learned.

An ambulance was sent to the apartment at 11:02 PM Thursday night -- and police arrived soon after.

Officials are not disclosing the nature of the emergency -- or explaining why cops were called to the scene.

We're told T.O. had already been rushed away by ambulance by the time cops arrived to the apartment, so they followed up with the football star at the hospital.

He has since been released from the hospital. more

TMZ followed up with this: Emergency officials were responding to a call about a possible prescription pill overdose when they were dispatched to the L.A. apartment where Terrell Owens was staying last week ... law enforcement sources tell TMZ. more on this story



M83's New Album Streaming Online
Urban Outfitters is streaming M83's new double album Hurry Up, We're Dreaming on their website ahead of next week's release and the store will carry an exclusive colored vinyl format of the release.

On Saturday October 15, Urban Outfitters will play the full album in each of their 165 stores across the country starting at 3pm local time. To stream Hurry Up, We're Dreaming through Urban Outfitters go here

M83 is excited to announce that Active Child will support the band throughout the fall US tour dates which start in Washington D.C on October 28th. more on this story



American Idol's Randy Jackson Gets New Vh1 Series
American Idol's Randy Jackson has landed a new series for Vh1 which the network bills as Jackson schooling "celebrities about what life is in the real world for those who didn't get their big breaks in "Aptitude Test" (working title). The one-hour series will premiere in 2012."

Here are the details they sent out: "Aptitude Test" is a show from Randy Jackson and Shed Media where each week a high profile celebrity gets a chance to see what might have happened if they never had their big break in the entertainment business. After retaking their high school career aptitude test to determine their "rightful calling," the celebrity will then don a disguise and undergo on-the-job training before revealing their true identity to their boss and co-workers. The show will mix both humor and heart in this fish-out-of-water experience.

"We immediately loved this idea from Randy Jackson as it hits all the right notes for us – celebrities, real-life experiences and good storytelling," said Jeff Olde, EVP Original Programming and Production. "We get to dive in with a celebrity and learn what their 'day job' might have been had the star thing not worked out. But the heart and humor of the show is following the celebrities on that real life journey as they train in a new craft and ultimately get to reveal their true identities to the people training them." more on this story



David Crosby and Graham Nash Go HD
David Crosby and Graham Nash's new record label Blue Castle are today releasing the HD DVD Crosby-Nash: In Concert, capturing a full concert filmed in high-definition at the Palace Theatre in Stamford, CT on May 22 during the U.S. portion of the duo's 2011 tour.

Crosby-Nash: In Concert features stirring versions of career-spanning classics including "Guinevere," "Marrakesh Express," "Deja vu," "Wooden Ships," "Our House," "They Want It All," "Just A Song Before I Go," "Almost Cut My Hair," and "Don't Dig Here." HDNet (hd.net) broadcast the concert live last spring, and will air highlights from the DVD on Sunday, October 16 (10PM/EDT, 7PM/PDT).

Crosby-Nash: In Concert's bonus content features previously unreleased bonus videos of Crosby & Nash songs, including "Immigration Man," and an intense live version of "Don't Dig Here." more on this story



NOW That's What I Call Music Announces 40th Release
NOW That's What I Call Music! Vol. 40 will be released November 8th in single-disc and deluxe 2CD packages. Both configurations will also be available for download purchase from all major digital service providers.

NOW That's What I Call Music! Vol. 40 features 16 current major chart hits from today's hottest artists, including Britney Spears, Rihanna, Christina Aguilera, Foster The People, David Guetta featuring Usher, and more, plus four up-and-coming "NOW What's Next" New Music Preview tracks.

The Deluxe Edition adds a bonus disc with 16 more smash hits showcasing many of the top artists featured in the NOW series to date, including Katy Perry, The Black Eyed Peas, P!nk, Lady Gaga, and more. more on this story



Kelsey Grammer Wants To Gag Camille
(TMZ) We've learned Kelsey Grammer is going into court this week ... asking a judge to impose a gag order on ex-wife Camille after her encounter with TMZ last week.

Our camera guy ran into Camille and her son last Tuesday -- and asked Camille which activities she enjoys doing with her kids. Camille instructed her son to answer the question and he replied, "Play."

Sources tell us Kelsey wasn't happy with the situation -- and wants the family judge to prohibit Camille from exposing their kids to media cameras in the future.

Sources connected with "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" tell us ... Camille is indignant because just days later Kelsey paraded both of their children in front of a bank of cameras at Boa, a place ALWAYS buzzing with paparazzi. more on this story



Dolly Parton Talks Sacrifice
Dolly Parton talks about "Sacrifice," the second single from her latest album Better Day.

The new single release coincides with a second leg of U.S. tour dates, which kicked off this past Friday, October 7 and wraps October 18 in Florida.

Of the new song, Dolly says, "'The Sacrifice' is another song that is just so, totally, me. I think it's so totally everybody that has a dream and desire to be successful, and in order to be successful we have to give up things that we'd rather not. But if we're not willing to make that sacrifice usually we don't see those dreams come true." more on this story



Magma's Christian Vander Releasing John Coltrane Tribute Album
(Glass Onyon) Magma's Christian Vander will be releasing a tribute to jazz innovator John Coltrane on October 15, 2011 - l'homme suprême .

Christian Vander explains, "On July 17, 1967, time stopped. The great saxophone player John Coltrane left us. I was lucky enough to discover, at a very young age, an exceptional musician. The beauty, the spirituality, the strength, the softness, as well as the fragility of notes. The expression of that sound which spoke to me like a voice. From that moment on, he became my daily bread. Indispensable. No one can ignore the immensity of his visionary works. It still resonates in all of today's musical productions, and certainly in those of tomorrow.

"In 1997, I had a dream, a record, dedicated to John Coltrane. A child painted the sun on a white cardboard, and below that sun, he wrote a title in blue... John Coltrane l'homme suprême."

Today's Day in Rock

Freak Accident Derails Rev Theory Plans
Rev Theory's guitarist Julien Jorgensen suffered an injury from a freak accident at a wedding and it has forced the band to pull out of their upcoming fall dates including a tour with Five Finger Death Punch, All That Remains, and Hatebreed.

The Rev Theory camp sent over these details: While at a post-wedding reception gathering, an individual standing adjacent to Jorgensen was opening a beer bottle without an opener. It slipped, shattered on the edge, and sliced the guitarist's left hand on the follow through. The resulting cut has been operated on, and he is unable to perform at this time. A full recovery is expected.

Jorgensen shared, "I am super bummed that happened, and it is a freak accident. It is a helpless feeling. I feel bad about dropping off the tour and disappointing the fans. As soon as I am able, we will be back on the road." Singer Rich Luzzi added, "After being a band for 10 years, Rev does not feel comfortable taking the stage without our brother as it would not be a true representation of the band."

Future plans for touring will be announced once available.



Weezer's Mikey Welsh Predicted His Own Death
(Banana 101.5) Weezer's former bass player Mikey Welsh was in Chicago to see his old band perform, the 40-year old was found dead by hotel staff prior to the show. The strangest part of the story is that he actually foresaw his untimely passing.

News of his "unexpected" death was first reported by his family via Twitter, yet it was not a surprise to everyone. On September 26th, Welsh posted the following eerily cryptic message on Twitter himself: "Dreamt I died in Chicago next weekend (heart attack in my sleep). Need to write my will today."

Welsh later corrected his timing mix up saying, "Correction: weekend after next." Whether this was a desperate cry for help or a genuine vision of his own doom will probably never be clear. more on this story



Panic! at The Disco Singer Hospitalized But Band Rocks On
Salt Lake City rockers King Niko sent over this bit of news about how their frontman and Neon Trees' Tyler Glenn helped save the day for a Panic! at The Disco appearance at a radio festival this past weekend after the PATD's singer Brendon Urie was hospitalized.

Panic! At The Disco arrived at Gallivan Plaza in downtown Salt Lake to headline the X96 FM Big Ass Show without their lead vocalist, Brendon Urie. Urie, who with the rest of Panic! At The Disco had recently returned from a tour in Indonesia, had a fever of 105 degrees [PATD's site said 102], and doctors at the Los Angeles hospital where he was being treated warned the singer against travelling, fearing malaria.

In a moment of desperation the band considered their options: cancel a sold-out festival-headlining gig, or figure out a way to play without their charismatic front man. Luckily, Panic! At The Disco bassist Dallon Weekes caught Salt Lake City rock band King Niko's Big Ass Show set, and found in frontman Ransom Wydner the onstage persona he needed to fill in for Urie. more on this story



Kid Rock Hitting The Clubs
(hennemusic) Kid Rock has been giving back for years, so it's no surprise the rocker is stepping up to help some U.S. cities struggling in the current economic climate with an upcoming club tour.

Rock has assembled a team of Detroit business leaders to show support for other cities in need, and to show that the Motor City, while experiencing its own difficulties, still has the power to unite to help others around the country.

Kid Rock, in association with his partners, will donate money to local charities, causes and individuals via the Kid Rock Foundation, along every stop of his "Underplay" club tour. The tour will feature stops at Nashville's famed Ryman Theater and New York's Beacon Theater to name a few, a big change from Kid Rock's "Born Free" Tour, which saw him playing the country's biggest stadiums, arenas and amphitheaters. more on this story



Paramore Delivering New Songs- Evanescence Web Event- The Academy Is No More- Quiet Riot Twister Sister Supergroup- Macca Gets Hitched and Expands Tour- more
(NME) Paramore have announced that they will be releasing three new singles over the next three months. The band, who have just finished a summer tour, have set up a new 'Singles Club', which offers fans the chance to buy one new track per month for the next three months. This begins with new single 'Renegade', which is available now and which you can hear here

(The 1st Five) The Academy Is… have announced their break up via a message on Facebook. The band's last album was 2008′s Fast Times at Barrington High. Here is their statement. "After nine years and three albums, The Academy Is… have decided to go our separate ways." more

Evanescence will be on LIVE on Ustream today. Don't miss the exclusive Q&A today, Tuesday, October 11th at 1pm PT / 4pm ET right here.

(SRX) Rudy Sarzo (Dio, Ozzy Osbourne, Whitesnake, Quiet Riot), drummer AJ Pero (Twisted Sister) and guitarist Mike orlando (Adrenaline Mob) have joined forces to form a new hard rock band. Fifteen tracks are currently in pre-production and the band will announce the vocalist very shortly. more

(Lambgoat) The Red Shore has called it quits. Formed in 2004, the band has released material with Rise Records and Mediaskare Records, among others. Tragically, the group made headlines in late-2007 when their singer was killed in an automobile accident while on tour. more

(FMQB) Paul McCartney married for the third time on Sunday in a modest civil ceremony before a small group of family and friends. He exchanged vows with his new bride, Nancy Shevell, at the same London register office where the former Beatle wed his first wife, Linda, in 1969. more

(Reuters) The day after he tied the knot with American heiress Nancy Shevell, ex-Beatle Paul McCartney announced 11 extra dates for his 'On the Run' tour ending in his native town of Liverpool, England, on December 20. more

(MU) Seventh Void, which features Type O Negative members Johnny Kelly and Kenny Hickey, tell fans: 'Sad to report that Matt Brown has left the band. No replacement has been made yet. more

Join original KISS drummer Peter Criss for the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk this Sunday, October 16th in Point Pleasant Beach NJ more

(Lambgoat) Norma Jean has announced an early-2012 tour tour of Europe with support from The Chariot, Stray From The Path, and Admiral's Arms. more

(FMQB) The Roots announced on their Facebook page that they will release their thirteenth studio album, Undun, on December 6 via Def Jam. more

(Lambgoat) Harm's Way, Dead End Path, and Brutality Will Prevail will team up for a tour of Europe this winter. more

Jon Oliva's Pain drummer/producer Chris Kinder has checked in with the following update: "Jon and I will begin the daunting task of going through new material as we prepare for a new JOP CD, due out in 2012." more




Megadeth's Mustaine Recovering From Surgery
(Banana 101.5) Years of headbanging will take it's toll on your neck — just ask Dave Mustaine of Megadeth. The metal vet had to undergo surgery for that very reason, but after just two weeks he already "feels great".

The metal community just let out a collective sigh of relief as Dave Mustaine has emerged from his neck surgery healthy and unscathed. Mustaine risked serious injury (and the possibility of being paralyzed) by fulfilling Megadeth's obligation to play at the Yankee Stadium show with The Big 4 September 14th. Regarding his decision to postpone his surgery until after the gig, Mustaine told Rolling Stone:

"I thought about it and I thought, 'You know what? I trust God and I know he's got me in his hands. I know that he hasn't brought me this far through all this adversity and done all this reconciliation with all the bands and us all getting along this well to have the finale show here in the States stopped. And I just thought, either God's everything or it's nothing, and I believe in him, so that's why." more on this story



Queens of the Stone Age Mix Up Jack White
(Banana 101.5) Jack White's imprint Third Man Records have announced a release that has his recorded works getting the remix treatment by artists like Queens of the Stone Age's Josh Homme, Beck, and Mark Lanegan.

After the split of The White Stripes, Jack White has spent much of his time focusing on his label as well as producing and collaborating with artists like fellow Detroiters Insane Clown Posse.

His latest projects include the release of a Raconteurs live album recorded at the Third Man Records studio and a 7″ Vinyl featuring some of White's most beloved tracks with a new twist. more on this story



The Killers, Jack White, Depeche Mode and Patti Smith Take On U2
(Gibson) U2's Achtung Baby album has been covered by artists including The Killers, Jack White, Depeche Mode, Snow Patrol and Patti Smith in commemoration of the landmark album's 20th anniversary.

The collection, titled AHK-toong BAY-bi Covered, is the brainchild of Q Magazine. It also marks the magazine's 25th anniversary. Q Editor in Chief Paul Rees says the album sets a new standard for the growing trend of free unique CDs bundled with magazines, pointing out that it features the first new material heard by several acts – The Killers, Damien Rice and Garbage – in years.

"'This is an entirely appropriate way to mark Q's anniversary and that of Achtung Baby, one of the pivotal albums in our lifetime," Rees said. The magazine/CD package will be available starting October 26. more on this story



Judas Priest Fans Got Another Thing Or Two Coming
Legacy Recordings have announced the release of two new compilations from metal legends Judas Priest. A boxset and a single disc greatest hits with a twist. They sent out these details:

On October 18th, fans will have 20 discs of Priest to sink their teeth into, when 'Single Cuts' arrives. The box set presents all of the group's UK 7" and 12" A and B sides from 1977 through 1992 (a total of 51 tracks), and each single will be featured as a vinyl-replica disc, and housed in a wallet featuring the original artwork. Additionally, the set will feature track-by-track notes by Kerrang! founder Geoff Barton, as well as rarely seen photos.

And for those metal-heads who are looking for a stellar single disc of Priest classics, 'The Chosen Few' will certainly fit the bill. Released a week earlier than 'Single Cuts,' 'The Chosen Few' is comprised of 17 Priest classics, chosen by some of the biggest names of the hard rock/heavy metal community (including Ozzy Osbourne, James Hetfield, Slash, and Alice Cooper, among countless others). more on this story



Five Finger Death Punch Found New Member Via Facebook
(Rock News Desk) Five Finger Death Punch bassist Chris Kael got the audition for his new job via Facebook, he's revealed.

And he made sure he'd seal the deal by wearing a combat sport shirt to the rehearsal room.

Earlier this year Kael replaced Matt Snell after he was fired at the end of 2010. He appears on 5FDP's new album, American Capitalist. Read what he had to say here.



Guns N' Roses Now What Axl Wanted It To Be Says Former Member
(hennemusic) Former Guns N' Roses guitarist Gilby Clarke was asked his opinion about the current version of his former band. Here is what he had to say:

"As it stands? Well, knowing Axl, and knowing Axl 20 years ago, and knowing what he wanted to do, I would assume that he's a happy guy," says the guitarist.

"This is, [from] what he explained to me, what he wanted the band to be. When we had our, what I call, a disagreement, he wanted to take the band in a new direction. He wanted to bring in lots of people and this is what he envisioned. I assume he is happy. Is it the kind of music that I enjoy? Some of it, some of it. I think it's creative and I think it's what music is supposed to be. It's supposed to be original and creative and I think it is all those things. It's just, to me, when I think of Guns N' Roses, it doesn't sound like Guns N' Roses to me. But as I say, if this was an Axl Rose album, it'd be fantastic, because it's good music. It is! I can't say it's not good music." more on this story



James Durbin To Appear On Rockline
(hennemusic) American Idol's James Durbin's debut album, "Memories Of A Beautiful Disaster," is set for release on November 21…and a week later, he'll be on the nationally-syndicated program Rockline to take your calls.

On Monday, November 28, Durbin will sit in with Rockline host Bob Coburn to discuss the project, his plans moving forward, and anything else fans want to talk about when they phone-in to the show.

Rockline starts at 11:30pm EST/8:30pm PST and fans can speak with James, at that time, by calling 1-800-344-ROCK (7625). more on this story



No More Beers For Ozzy
(Rock News Desk) Ozzy Osbourne finally quit drugs after he realised almost all the friends he used to go on benders with were dead. And he started by focusing on what he says is the most difficult substance to stop using – tobacco.

Osbourne tells Classic Rock Revisited: "I got fed up with quitting. To be honest with you I was not having a good time. I would make all of these grandiose statements about how I was 'Mr Sober' now. In the National Enquirer the following day you would see me on the floor in a bog covered in piss.

"The first thing I stopped was tobacco – and don't ask me how I did that. I have been in nearly every rehab around; I have been in rehab with heroin users and they say, 'I can put the smack down but I can't give up tobacco'. more on this story



Joe Walsh Sets Solo Album Release
(hennemusic) Joe Walsh of The Eagles is gearing up to release his first solo album in 18 years.

Walsh tells Ultimate Classic Rock that he has completed work on the record, which will be called "Analog Man," and should be released sometime in the winter of 2012.

"I know in the past, I've had screwy album titles, but I decided to call it 'Analog Man'," Joe explains. "Because, you know, my generation of musicians, we grew up analog, and now it's a digital world." more on this story



Nightwish Set A Date and Announce One-Off
Roadrunner Records have set a January 10, 2012 release date for Nightwish's new album Imaginaerum.

Nightwish will also play a one-off show at the Gibson Amphitheater in Los Angeles on Jan. 21 and the band will then set sail on the 70,000 Tons of Metal cruise, which heads for the high seas on Jan. 23 in Miami, Fla.

Here is the background Roadrunner sent over for the album: The band examined its catalog when sitting down to write what would become Imaginaerum. The songs for the album were written between 2008 and 2010, after the Dark Passion Play tour cycle ended. more on this story



Former Yngwie Malmsteen Singers Return With New Projects
(Gibson) Two former Yngwie Malmsteen singers are working on new releases for early 2012.

Jeff Scott Soto, who appeared on Yngwie's first two solo releases, Rising Force and Marching Out, says he is two vocals tracks away from wrapping up work on Damage Control, which he describes as combining the best elements of his first two Frontiers Records. Soto's bandmates and cowriters on the album are Joel Hoekstra of Rock of Ages/Night Ranger, and Jamie Borger of Talisman/Treat. The album is due in March 2012 on Frontiers, with a full European and South American tour and possible U.S. dates to follow.

Meanwhile, Joe Lynn Turner, who appeared on Malmsteen's Odyssey album in 1988, is putting the finishing touches on a new Sunstorm album to be called Emotional Fire. The first two Sunstorm albums were inspired by the AOR catalogue of songs Turner penned for himself or other artists of the genre, but Emotional Fire is inspired by Turner's numerous 1980s background vocal sessions for other artists. The album is due in winter 2012. more on this story



Bob Ezrin The Other Half of Alice Cooper
(hennemusic) Alice Cooper is currently on the road across Europe, touring in support of his new album, "Welcome 2 My Nightmare" - the sequel to his classic 1975 concept album.

Before he hit the road, Alice sat down with WDHA-FM 105.5 FM, the rock music station licensed to Dover and Morristown, New Jersey, to discuss the project, its inspiration, and working with longtime partner, producer Bob Ezrin.

"He [Ezrin] brings out the very worst in me, and I bring out the worst in him," explains Cooper, "which makes us make really good albums. Bob is really the other half of Alice: he understands Alice as much as I do... and we write for the character; we don't write for me, cuz Alice is another being. [for example] 'I would say this, but Alice would never say that.' So, when I write 'I'll Bite Your Face Off," that's coming from Alice." Check out the video interview here



Testament Taking Gene Hoglan on Anthrax Tour
Testament sent over word that current Dark Roots Of Earth studio drummer Gene Hoglan will be joining them on the road for select dates on their upcoming co-headlining run with Anthrax.

Hoglan will be joining Testament for the tour from October 28th through November 13th. "As many of you know, I just played on the new Testament record, Dark Roots Of Earth, which went amazingly well," states Gene Hoglan.

"The dudes were kind enough ask me to join them for a couple weeks on this tour with Anthrax and Death Angel. I'm super stoked to do the shows. It's going to be a great time. Just so everybody knows, I will be selling my Drum Instructional DVD, The Atomic Clock, at the shows (shameless plug). If you can't make it out to one of the shows, buy it on line!" more on this story



Mick Fleetwood To Tell All Today
Fleetwood Mac's Mick Fleetwood is launching his new tell-all video today (Tuesday 11th October), as part of the Off The Record music conversation series.

Fleetwood and Nicole Atkins have been tapped as the first acts to front the Off The Record music conversation series presented by Cabo Wabo Tequila, founded by Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Sammy Hagar.

The double-act came together in Mick's hometown of Maui, at his new bar Fleetwood's on Front Street (opening early 2012), to share tales of career beginnings, legendary nights on stage, song inspirations, tour secrets and rumored band romances. Their musical journey together was captured on video for Off the Record, and will launch through Cabo Wabo's YouTube page today October 11th
here.



New York Dolls Golden Era Coming To DVD
(hennemusic) Trip back to the early 70s for a new DVD featuring footage of the New York Dolls from the era.

Due November 22, a new package, "Lookin' Fine On Television," features 15 live cuts shot during the band's formative years - from early shows in NYC all the way to the TV studios, clubs and swimming pools of Los Angeles.

In the 70s Rock photographer Bob Gruen, who shot all the major acts of the day, also hooked up with the Dolls; he and wife Nadya Beck filmed over 40 hours of the band, capturing rock history as it developed before their eyes. more on this story



Sammy Hagar Gives Back
(hennemusic) Following the news that Sammy Hagar has been named in a breach of contract and defamation lawsuit over his autobiography, the Red Rocker could use a feel-good headline right now.

MauiNow reports The Hagar Family Foundation has donated $5,000 to Na Hoaloha – Neighbors Helping Neighbors, a Maui non-profit that recruits volunteers to provide seniors with friendly visits, transportation and caregiver respite.

"There are people that need immediate help. I'm a grassroots guy. The day I write the check, the next day I want to have someone benefit from it," said Hagar, rock 'n' roll hall-of-famer and part-time Huelo resident, in a written statement. more on this story



Dropkick Murphys TV
(AMM) Dropkick Murphys are set to bookend their October 13 performance on Conan (TBS, 11pm PDT/EDT, 10pm CDT) with a pair of appearances on Fuel-TV's The Daily Habit Tuesday, October 11 and Friday, October 14.

The Tuesday, October 11 show will feature Dropkick Murphys performing "Going Out In Style" – a rousing, celebratory tale of an Irish wake as seen through the eyes of the deceased – from their CD of the same name (Born & Bred Records).

The October 14 episode of the The Daily Habit will include a performance of the band's signature hit "I'm Shipping Up To Boston." The Daily Habit premieres at 11pm ET/8pm PT each night, with additional airings to follow. more on this story



Canadian BLAST CMJ Showcase Lineup
The fifth annual Canadian BLAST CMJ Showcase is set to take place on October 19 at Arlene's Grocery. Here is the lineup:

8:00pm: Bikini: Bikini is an electronic collective originally from British Columbia, formed in Montreal, and now largely rooted in New York City. In the wake of their 2010 EP RIPJDS, band members converged from four points of the continent to write and direct their first music video, prep their live show and tour it in select cities. The year culminated with an unforgettable night at the Austin Museum of Art at SXSW, which ended a year of logistical pangs with an old fashioned band brawl. With a renewed focus, Bikini's Aaron Aujla and Kieran Magzul are in the midst of finalizing their next LP. The new album has been built between Aujla's New York City studio and the forests of northern British Columbia where Magzul summers as a tree planter. -http://biikiinii.com/

9:00pm: PAPERMAPS: Dean Marino is the principal and founding member of Toronto indie rock band, PAPERMAPS. He is a Toronto-based recording engineer who spent years behind the scenes, manning the console for artists as varied as Tokyo Police Club, Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, Born Ruffians, C'MON and the Black Keys.The current line-up includes Marino plus Bobby Lee (drums), Wendy Leung (keyboards/vocals) and newest member Betty Dimo (bass). The band just recently created their own "fan-made" music video for Reunion and have just shot a new video for a remixed version of the track "Complicate Things". They are signed to Sparks Music [Toronto]. more on this story



Rich Kids On LSD Rarity Being Reissued
(HWM) After 22 years of being "out-of-print" Destiny Records is re-releasing Rich Kids On LSD's "Greatest Hits - Live in Berlin" on October 14.

This re-issue is being done with the full cooperation with all surviving band members and close friends and has been in the works for the past 2
1/2 years.

Guitarist Chris Rest was interviewed for the liner notes, guitarist Barry D`Alive enlisted Mark McCloud ("LSD-Art-Coryphee") to provide new acid-hits graphics for the cover and Joe Raposo (Bass) reconstructed and personally painted the original Dany Sites lettering & logo with pen and ink (all the original artwork for "Greatest Hits" vanished years ago). more on this story



Trapt Revisiting Old Songs For New Release
(Sub) Cleopatra Records have set an October 25, 2011 release date for Trapt's new album, Headstrong.

The 17-track album offers a fresh take on platinum-selling hits as well as rare live songs, demos and remixes.

Trapt signed with Warner Bros. Records and their national debut, Trapt, became a platinum seller with the single "Headstrong" a #1 Modern Rock Track. more on this story



Singled Out: White Willow's Floor 67
White Willow release their brand new album, "Terminal Twilight," today and to celebrate we asked Jacob to tell us about one of the songs from the effort, "Floor 67". Here is the story:

The song "Floor 67" off our latest album "Terminal Twilight" actually started with me reading a newspaper article about a couple in Brazil. This was back when the first big financial crack happened, back in 2008. This well-off couple had bought the penthouse apartment in Brazil's newest, fanciest, most luxurious high-rise apartment building.

They were the first couple to have bought an apartment, and they moved in immediately. And just, like almost on the very day that they moved in, the market crashed and everything stopped. No-one bought another apartment, development in the area stopped completely. But they had paid for their apartment, and refused to budge on the matter. So they lived alone, in the topmost apartment of this gigantic skyscraper, while the world pretty much fell apart all around them.

I read that and I thought, THIS is a song if ever I heard one. So I wrote it, and sort of took the story to its extreme conclusion, so there are lines like: "The empty cabana, the wolves by the poolside, the hawks in the grand foyer", which sort of puts an apocalyptic spin on the whole thing. But the story seemed apocalyptic to me from the outset.