Today's Day In Rock News!

KISS Def Leppard Deep Purple Supergroup Promoter Trouble
(Classic Rock) The Rock'n'Roll All Stars' promoter is being sued by a venue in Venezuela over claims $270,000 was paid for a cancelled event and never returned.
The eleven-man superstar outfit –including Gene Simmons, Joe Elliott, Glenn Hughes, Sebastian Bach – called off six of their planned nine shows in South America during April and May.

Evenpro, organisers of the event at Campo De Futbol Universidad, Caracas, say they paid up front for a two-hour performance and meet-and-greet session. When it was cancelled Gabe Reed Productions didn't return the cash. more on this story



Why Slipknot Are Hiding Their Bass Player
(Banana 101.5) Slipknot percussionist Shawn "Clown" Crahan talks about his disdain for greatest hits albums and why their forthcoming retrospective 'Antennas to Hell' is so much more. In his typically candid fashion, Crahan also talks about why temporary bassist Donnie Steele will remain off stage while playing with the band.

After doing so for their first performances following the death of founding member and bassist Paul Gray, the band will again employ former guitarist Donnie Steele to play bass — from backstage. "What gives him the right to be onstage with us right now?" Clown explains. "When we're going through an experience like this with our fans, they need to concentrate on the eight members that are grieving, not on someone new.

"This isn't a diss on Donnie. I love Donnie, but we chose to tour for just one reason — to share the tragedy, pain and grief of what happened to Paul with our fans instead of going through it alone." Now about that greatest hits collection...



Story Behind The Who's Quadrophenia Hitting Movie Theaters
Fathom continue to bring rockin' films to movie theaters with the latest, "The Who: Quadrophenia- Can You See The Real Me?" The Story Behind The Album set to premiere as a one-night in-theater event on Tuesday, July 24, at 8:00 p.m. local time nationwide. Fathom sent over these details:

Beginning with a special welcome message from lead guitarist Pete Townshend, "The Who: Quadrophenia – Can You See the Real Me?" The Story Behind The Album event will give fans an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look into one of rock's most influential bands – Roger Daltrey (lead vocals, harmonica and guitar), Townshend (guitar, keyboards and vocals), John Entwistle (bass guitar, brass and vocals) and Keith Moon (drums and percussion) – and the creation of their celebrated album, "Quadrophenia," originally released in October 1973.

Tickets for "The Who: Quadrophenia- Can You See The Real Me?" The Story Behind The Album are available at presenting theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com. For a complete list of presenting theater locations and prices, please visit the website (theaters and participants may be subject to change). more on this story



Minus The Bear Preview Forthcoming Album
Dangerbird Records have set an August 28th release date for Minus The Bear's fifth studio album, Infinity Overhead.

The band reunited with former member and longtime producer Matt Bayles (Mastodon, Isis, Cursive) to create the guitar-laden 10-track record. The band is giving a sneak peek into the album with a minute-long trailer you can watch here.

"We wanted to branch out on the last record and explore some more musical directions and work with someone we didn't know," says guitarist Dave Knudson about the band's 2010 LP, Omni, produced by Joe Chiccarelli. "That was very educational and eye opening but at the same time we weren't in our wheel house." Drummer Erin Tate adds: "I look at it like when we started this band we were building a house with the first three records, then with Omni we decided to go to a beach house. Now, with Infinity Overhead, we are back working on our house." Bassist Cory Murchy succinctly exclaims: "We didn't go anywhere, but we're back."
more on this story



Anthrax Covering AC/DC, Journey, Rush and Boston on New EP
(Gibson) To celebrate the one-year anniversary of the release of their most recent album, Worship Music, Anthrax is planning a special EP of covers.

Drummer Charlie Benante broke the news during an interview with Loudwire. "To commemorate the first year of 'Worship Music' being out, we're putting together a little companion EP with some fun s--t on it," he said. "It started out as what I call 'The '70s EP.' It's made up of some cover songs from our favorite bands – consisting of Rush, Thin Lizzy, Boston, Journey… We're still working on it now, but I think it's gonna be really cool."

Fan can expect to hear Anthrax's takes on AC/DC's "T.N.T.," Boston's "Smokin'," Journey's "Keep on Runnin'" and Rush's "Anthem." The EP is due around September 13. more on this story





Incubus HQ Live Set For Release
Big news from the Incubus camp this week, the band has the announced the release of Incubus HQ Live in multiple configurations. Here are details they put out:

In summer of 2011, celebrating their 20th year together, Incubus turned a Los Angeles storefront space into a low-key, hi-tech residency that resulted in six nights of free performances and fan encounters now chronicled on Incubus HQ Live.

The celebration takes place across three separate multi-disc packages released by Legacy Recordings: INCUBUS HQ LIVE (16-track CD + DVD, available August 14th); other package details.



Rare AC/DC Item Fetches Big Price Online
(Classic Rock) A rare AC/DC tour program has sold on eBay for $1500. The 1976 souvenir was produced for the band's Giant Dose of Rock'n'Roll tour of Australia.

But the program was withdrawn midway through the 20-date trip because authorities deemed it "a case for the moral decline in the nation's youth."

The action is thought to have stemmed from a "politically incorrect" comment on bassist Mark Evans' page about Swedish actress Britt Ekland. More rock news here.



All That Remains Finish Recording New Album
All That Remains have finished recording their new album, A War You Can Not Win, which is expected to be release in September 2012.

A War You Can Not Win sees ATR reunited with longtime producer Adam D. (The Devil Wears Prada, As I Lay Dying, Killswitch Engage).

The record is the culmination of an intense writing period for the group that began shortly after their 18-month tour in support of For We Are Many. "So we're gonna release a new disc in the fall and it's called 'A War You Can Not Win'. We really busted our asses and tried to do some new stuff (like we always do) and we're really happy about what came out of it. Some of it is pretty different and is REALLY gonna blow you guys away. Some of it is gonna sound just like what you expect from ATR. And I'm sure all of it is gonna make the internet have a conniption fit! Release is gonna be this fall and we're already working on a co-headline tour to show some of it off! Get into it," comments All That Remains frontman Phil Labonte. more on this story



Former These Arms Are Snakes Frontman Returns With Crypts
Former These Arms Are Snakes frontman Steve Snere returns with Crypts who have set their debut album release and lineup some live shows.

Crypts self-titled debut will be released on LP, CD and download via Sargent House on September 4th, 2012.

Crypts are also planning some live shows include a night supporting Russian Circles and a run in September with Chelsea Wolfe -- dates to come. The also play their hometown at Seattle's Capitol Hill Block Party on July 20th. more on this story



Reminder: Metallica Orion Festival To Stream This Weekend
(Gibson) While it's pretty killer to see Metallica putting together their own music festival this year – Orion Music + More – unfortunately, tons of fans won't be able to trek out to Atlantic City to take part in the metal fun.

Thankfully, Fuse TV has announced they will webcast select performances from the event all weekend long, starting on Saturday (June 23) at 5:30 p.m. ET.

Fuse will stream Metallica's Friday and Saturday night headlining sets, where the guys will perform Metallica (the Black Album) and Ride the Lightning from front to back. In addition, Fuse's YouTube channel will highlight performances by Gaslight Anthem, Modest Mouse and Best Coast, among other acts. more on this story





Duff McKagan Receives High School Diploma
(hennemusic) Duff McKagan is now a high school graduate. On Tuesday, the former Guns N' Roses bassist received his diploma during the Class Of 2012 graduation ceremony at Seattle's Roosevelt High School.

Duff had previously dropped out of the school while in 10th grade; he later went on to take his General Educational Development (GED) tests, which is widely accepted by employers as an alternative to a traditional high school diploma from an accredited high school. "Finally got my high school diploma today. I did the not-so-popular 48-year plan," tweeted Duff.

McKagan's previous education included a basic finance course at Santa Monica Community College in 1994; in the early 2000s he enrolled full-time at Seattle University's Albers School of Business and Economics. more on this story



Alice in Chains' Jerry Cantrell Receives Stevie Ray Vaughan Award
(Banana 101.5) Alice in Chains co-founder Jerry Cantrell was honored with the Stevie Ray Vaughan award for his contributions to the MusiCares MAP fund at an event on May 31. In a new video, you can hear Cantrell, former Guns N' Roses bassist Duff McKagan and more talk about their struggles with sobriety.

Alice in Chains has had many substance abuse problems over the course of their 20+ year history, ultimately losing two of their original members — singer Layne Staley in 2002 and bassist Mike Starr in 2011 — to addiction. They weren't the only band members with problems though, "I'm as imperfect as they come," said Jerry Cantrell at the podium for the MusiCares MAP benefit. "I just try to do what I can to not get high today, you know. And that's pretty much gotten me to where I am today."

Rocking a sweet 'stache, Cantrell even gave the details of his, literally, rocky road to sobriety. "Shawn [Kinney, Alice in Chains' drummer] was at the door with my brother. So my choices were open the door and go to rehab or jump out the back window, down down a cliff, into some blackberry bushes. That's the choice I took." said Cantrell. "And I ended up here. So, I didn't intend to get here but I'm very grateful that I am here and it took a lot of people to help me get here." Check out the video here.



All Else Fails Replace Tom Wolf
All Else Fails have announced that they have replaced drummer Tom Wolf with Shane Tym and plan to begin recording a new album. We were sent these details:

Tym who has been drumming for the last 15 years and was born in Edmonton but grew up in Chilliwack, BC and has played in multiple bands, will be making his AEF debut at this year's Normfest in Fishing Lake, AB on August 4th.

"I'm super pumped to be a part of such a wicked band with such great (and kinda weird) dudes, and am really looking forward to creating some sexy sexy music together!' says new drummer Shane Tym. more on this story



Kill Devil Hill Summer Tour Plans
Kill Devil Hill have mapped out some late summer North American tour dates which will kick off on August 1st in Las Vegas, NV.

Kill Devil Hill is the new project featuring drummer Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Heaven and Hell, Dio) and bassist Rex Brown, (Pantera, Down) guitarist Mark Zavon and lead vocalist Dewey Bragg.

The group's self-titled debut album was released May 22nd via Steamhammer/SPV and landed at #9 on the Billboard Top New Artist Albums (HeatSeekers) Chart, #41 on the Top Hard Music Chart and #50 on the Independent Album Chart. more on this story



Halestorm Kicking Off Headline Tour This Weekend
Halestorm will be kicking off their summer headline tour tomorrow, June 23rd, in Portland, ME.

The band is hitting the road once again in support of their latest release, "The Strange Case Of…"

Halestorm also recently made history with their new single, "Love Bites (So Do I)" when the track ascended to #1 at Active Rock radio outlets nationwide, marking the first ever female-fronted group to top the format's airplay ranking. more on this story



Alastor Albums Gets Remastered
Remastered versions of Alastor's first two albums will on September, 3rd in Europe and September, 11th in USA (via MVD).

The material will be remastered using tube technology and released in a limited digipack edition.

Their debut album entitled "Syndroms of the Cities" from 1989 will be available for the first time in CD format, while their previously unreleased second studio album "Destiny" (1190) will have its official premiere. more on this story



B Sides


Iron Maiden World Tour Kick Off Footage Online
(hennemusic) Iron Maiden kicked off their "Maiden England World Tour" Thursday night in Charlotte, NC and some footage has appeared online.

The tour will closely mirror, in terms of production and content, the original 1988 concert video of the same name, shot on the "Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son Tour."

Maiden were joined in Charlotte by special guest Alice Cooper, who opens shows through to July 21. The North American tour will hit more than 30 cities before it wraps in Houston, TX. on August 18. Watch the footage from the kick off here.



Joe Walsh Talks Hotel California and Eagles Flight Plans
(Gibson) Joe Walsh talked to Gibson about making his new album with producer Jeff Lynne, his distinctive guitar style and how he and Don Felder pushed one another during the recording of the Eagles' classic, "Hotel California."

People always want to know about the guitar interplay on "Hotel California." Did you and Felder spend a great deal of time working out your parts? Not a great deal. Once Don [Henley] had figured out the words, and once the vocal was sung, so we knew where not to play, Felder and I decided we would have multiple guitars playing together, doing the same thing, in different voices. We wanted to build that up within the body of the song, so that it would gradually become more complex. And we decided that, at the end of the song, we would have a go at one another. Felder and I pushed each other. It was competitive. It was like, "Okay, watch this!" We did that on purpose, because it created tension, that effort to be the tougher guy. You can hear that in our performances.

How far along are The Eagles' plans for next year? We're working on a documentary. We've looked at all our archives – lots of archived video and interview footage that dates back even before I joined the band. It's going to cover the entire lifetime of the band. Everybody on the perimeter is interviewed, and we're all interviewed. We've got great people producing and directing it. My best guess is that it will come out around the end of the year. The plan is to put together a new show based on the theme of it being our 40th anniversary as a band, and based on the documentary project. With all that content, we'll go out and have a "Happy Birthday" tour sometime next year. Read the full interview here.





Green Day Preview Second Installment of Album Trilogy
(hennemusic) Green Day have unveiled a preview of the second part of their forthcoming album trilogy.

The band has been in the studio recording not one, but three albums – a trilogy entitled ¡Uno!, ¡Dos!, and ¡Tré!. The projects will be released in stages, on September 25th 2012, November 13th 2012 and January 15th 2013 respectively.

Last week, Green Day offered up the preview trailer for "¡Uno!" – now, they've issued an advance look at "¡Dos!" Watch it here.



Anniversary of The Glastonbury Festival
(Gibson) On this day in 1971, Melanie, Quintessence, The Edgar Broughton Band, Pink Fairies, Terry Reid, Gong, David Bowie, Hawkwind, Arthur Brown, Brinsley Schwarz, Fairport Convention and Family all appeared at the second Glastonbury Festival in England. Gibson looks back:

Current Glastonbury Festival chief Michael Eavis put on a small music festival at Worthy Farm in Somerset in September 1970. The following year, the same location saw another more ambitious, more magical festival, where ancient ley lines met in some mystical pattern and which organizer Andrew Kerr and his cohorts called the Glastonbury Fayre, setting the spiritual tone for Glastonbury festivals to come.

Eavis, writing an obituary for Arabella Churchill (granddaughter of Winston Churchill and one of the Andrew Kerr gang) for the Independent newspaper remembered the 1971 organizing team as a "crowd of upper-crust hippies … who wanted me to let them have the farm to put on a free festival to coincide with the 1971 summer solstice."

Bill Harkin, who would design the original giant wooden pyramid stage that was designed to focus the energy of the solstice, met the upper-crust hippies while out walking on Glastonbury Tor (hill). He writes on pyramidstage-glastonburyfestival.co.uk:

"I found myself at the foot of Glastonbury Tor at about midnight and on making a brew of tea on my Primus in the back of the van, I was surprised to see a group of freaks, big hats, long scarves and cloaks stumbling down the Tor path towards me with shrieks of laughter.

"They said that they were meeting a farmer the following day, Michael Eavis who had staged a small music event, Worthy Farm Pop Festival some weeks before … they wanted to rent a farm for a free festival the following year. They had all been so horrified by the steel fences and commercialism of the Isle of Wight Festival and wanted to do something very different."

Eavis was happy for the plan to take place and explained in his Independent piece why he was not actually involved in 1971. "When I had a disagreement with them they threw a load of Tarot cards on the kitchen table. The message read: 'No one with the name of Michael should be involved with the festival.' And I said: 'Hang on a minute, isn't this my farm?'"

Today's Day In Rock News!

Queensryche Replace Geoff Tate
(Classic Rock) Queensryche have split with singer Geoff Tate, and will continue with Todd La Torre in his place, the band have confirmed.
Speculation had been strong in recent weeks that a parting of the ways was on the cards, with the rest of the band revealing they'd formed a splinter group called Rising West featuring Crimson Glory frontman La Torre at the mic.

Drummer Scott Rockenfield says in a statement: "Over the past few months there have been growing creative differences within Queensryche. We want our fans to know that we hoped to find a common resolution, but in the end parting ways with Geoff was the best way for everyone to move forward in a positive direction.

"We wish him the best of luck with all of his future endeavours. We can't wait to bring Queensryche to our fans with Todd behind the microphone." more on this story



Ozzy Osbourne Cancels Show At Last Minute Over Vocal Concerns
(hennemusic) Ozzy Osbourne canceled a show in Mannheim, Germany Wednesday night due to "vocal concerns."

TMZ reports the singer pulled out of the Ozzy Osbourne & Friends show at the SAP Arena at the last minute. The concert is one of the several that were scheduled as make-up dates when the Black Sabbath reunion tour was canceled.

Sources on site tell TMZ that Ozzy was supposed to take the stage after Black Label Society finished their set. But instead, the crowd was advised that Osbourne would be unable to perform due to a medical condition. more on this story



Metallica To Stream Orion Fest
(hennemusic) Metallica launch Orion Music + More at Bader Field in Atlantic City, New Jersey this weekend.

In addition to more than 30 artists on the bill, Metallica will headline both nights, each with its own cool angle: they'll play their classic "Ride The Lightning" album in its entirety on Saturday and, for the first time ever in the U.S., perform the "Black" album on Sunday.

Metallica has announced that select performances will be streamed live via Fuse, including the band's closing set on Sunday evening. more on this story



Guns N' Roses' Axl Rose Takes Another Fall
(hennemusic) Last month, Guns N' Roses Frontman Axl Rose suffered a leg injury when he fell off a table while partying at a club after a show in Moscow; a week later, he fell on stage in Liverpool while saying goodnight to the crowd.

Now, a third Axl fall has been captured on video. At France's Hellfest last weekend, Rose tripped while jumping on a platform on stage during "Sweet Child O' Mine."

Axl did a face-plant and hit the stage when he was just about the sing the song's opening line; he got up right away and delivered the vocal on time while his bandmates played on. Watch it here.



Green Day Cancel Secret Show
(hennemusic) Green Day is making headlines this week as news surfaces that the band's "secret" show, set for this Friday, has been canceled after the city of Burbank denied them the necessary permits due to concerns over crowd control.

Green Day have now announced "permits needed for the show were denied by the city due to crowd control issues.

"The anticipated turnout was well into the thousands, and after monitoring the situation, fears were the number would dramatically swell and pose serious concern for safety of concert-goers once the location was made public." more on this story



Rolling Stones Meeting Next Month To Plan Future
(Gibson) Hot off the rumors that The Rolling Stones were going to play their final gig at 2013's Glastonbury Festival (which was denied by the band's reps), Keith Richards says the boys will get together in July to set their 50th anniversary plans. Keef told Rolling Stone magazine that, ideally, he'd like to play at least one show by the end of the year. "I'd like to get a couple of shows down and see how it goes," Richards said. "But I'd love it."

Although "it's all very hush-hush," the guitarist said that the band members will meet next month in London, following a New York-based jam session in April. He said that the gang will decide if they will be making a new record – which would be their first since 2005's A Bigger Bang.

"We're going to talk about that in July and see. I mean, I'd love to get some tracks down and see what songs we've got," he said. "And that goes along with part of getting the band back together and getting things moving. So I'd love to cut some tracks, yeah." more on this story





Royal Thunder Guitarist Hospitalized
Royal Thunder guitarist Josh Coleman has been hospitalized for an undisclosed illness forcing the band to cancel a couple of dates on their current trek with Valient Thorr and Holy Grail.

The band issued the following: "Royal Thunder's guitar player Josh Coleman has been sick for a few days. We were driving down the road in Indiana and he woke up saying 'pull over, pull over,' he puked up blood and then passed out. He is very sick. The ambulance came and got him and now he's resting at Cameron Hospital in Indiana. He is our brother and our family. We will be by his side for the next couple of days, in hopes that he recovers. He is receiving blood transfusions and waiting on results.

"We need to cancel our next two shows, Wednesday and Thursday. We deeply apologize and regret it. Sorry for any disappointments. We wish we could be there. We hope you all can understand. Thank you for your support and we look forward to meeting back up with our tour buddies, The Kick Ass, Holy Grail ,and Valient Thorr! Peace!"

More on Royal Thunder - Royal Thunder Music - Royal Thunder Tour Dates/Tickets - Royal Thunder CDs, vinyl and rarities
Uriah Heep Manager and Producer Gerry Bron Dead at 79
(Classic Rock) Producer and band manager Gerry Bron has died at the age of 79. He worked closely with Uriah Heep for many years. He gave the band their name, managed their affairs and served behind the desk for their 1970 debut album Very 'Eavy, Very 'Umble, then every subsequent release until 1980′s Conquest.

His label Bronze Records was home to acts including Heep, Motorhead, Colosseum and the Damned. Bron also worked in the mainstream pop arena with acts such as Manfred Mann and Gene Pitney.

His son Richard tweeted: "Very sadly my father passed away yesterday morning very unexpectedly. Rest in peace Dad – we all love you." more on this story



Iron Maiden Kick Off Tour Tonight
(hennemusic) Iron Maiden kick off their "Maiden England World Tour" today in Charlotte, NC. Maiden have offered up some video from rehearsals for the trek to give fans a behind the scenes look at their preparations for today's launch.

The tour will closely mirror, in terms of production and content, the original 1988 concert video of the same name, shot on the "Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son Tour."

The North American tour will hit more than 30 cities before it wraps in Houston, TX. on August 18. Maiden will be joined by special guest Alice Cooper on shows to July 21, and then Coheed and Cambria step in to open the second half of the trip. Watch the video here.



Rush Top The Charts With New Album
(hennemusic) Rush's new album, "Clockwork Angels," has debuted at the top of the Canadian charts.

The project enjoyed first week sales in excess of 19,600 in the band's homeland, marking Rush's first #1 debut for a studio album in the SoundScan era.

Stateside, "Clockwork Angels" entered the Billboard 200 albums chart at #2, with sales of 103,000 copies. more on this story



Metallica's Kirk Hammett Plans To Release Book
(Gibson) Most Metallica fans know that guitarist Kirk Hammett is an avid collector of all things horror-related. Now, he's ready to share his assembly of rare items with the world via a new book, Too Much Horror Business – The Kirk Hammett Collection, due out this October.

The hardback book will include 300 images of items from Hammett's stash, with captions written by the guitarist and a three-part interview about his passion for horror.

"This is my gift to all the other horror nerds out there who are just like me," Kirk said in a press release. "It's been made with great love for all the many characters and movies which guided me through childhood, into adulthood and which still keep me on track today." more on this story





Black Crowes' Rich Robinson Produces New Sandi Thom Album
Sandi Thom has set an August 14th release date for her fourth studio album Flesh and Blood.

Produced by the Black Crowes' Rich Robinson, and featuring a rare duet with Buffy Sainte-Marie, the album was recorded at 16 Tons studio in Nashville, Tennessee.

"Sandi really stretched herself and made a bold new album," reflects Rich Robinson, "Her songs are honest, vulnerable and very strong. Her vocal abilities are showcased really well, as is her guitar work, and harp playing. I think Sandi's made a great record. It was a joy to work with her." more on this story



The Gates Of Slumber Welcome Back Former Member
The Gates Of Slumber are reuniting with former drummer "Iron" Bob Fouts for their upcoming North American tour.

The band has parted amicably with their friend J. Clyde Paradis, who recorded and toured behind last year's album, The Wretch (Rise Above Records).

Fouts drummed for the band on previous Gates albums Conqueror (2008) and Hymns of Blood and Thunder (2009). more on this story



ZZ Top's Gibbons, MGMT, The Kills and More Tribute Fleetwood Mac
(Gibson) ZZ Top's Billy F. Gibbons, The New Pornographers, The Kills, MGMT, and Marianne Faithful are among the artists to take part in a new tribute to Fleetwood Mac.

The U.K. blues pioneers, then led by Peter Green, were an early guitar influence on Gibbons, as well as on Aerosmith's Joe Perry. Fleetwood Mac later became pop/rock stars with Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks as frontpeople.

Gibbons is returning a favor – drummer Mick Fleetwood and bassist John McVie appeared on a ZZ Top tribute earlier this year. Sonic Youth's Lee Ranaldo and Dinosaur Jr.'s J Mascis also duet on the album.

The as-yet-untitled album will be released in the U.S. on September 14. Check out the tracklist here.





Classic Muddy Waters and Rolling Stones Show Set For Release
Eagle Rock have set a July 10 release date for the DVD and special two-disc DVD/CD package of Muddy Waters & The Rolling Stones Live At The Checkerboard Lounge Chicago 1981.

They will also be releasing the classic live package as a DVD/2LP vinyl set on September 11.

On November 22, 1981, the Rolling Stones were criss-crossing America on one of their mammoth tours when they had a night off in Chicago, Illinois. What to do? The decision was a no-brainer. Muddy Waters (1915-1983) was in town that night performing at his own juke-joint, The Checkerboard Lounge. It didn't take long before The Master called up to the stage his students, vocalist Mick Jagger, guitarists Ron Wood and Keith Richards and piano player Ian Stewart. The four Stones wound up jamming with Muddy and his band to the absolute delight of the lucky patrons there that night and, man, they raised the roof. more on this story



Stone Temple Pilots, Deftones, Chevelle For Aftershock Festival
Aftershock Festival is set to debut this year on Sunday, September 23 at Discovery Park in downtown Sacramento, CA.

The initial lineup for the full-day rock festival includes Stone Temple Pilots, Deftones, Bush, Chevelle, Hollywood Undead, Theory of a Deadman, Oleander, Escape the Fate, Otherwise, Gemini Syndrome and more.

Discovery Park is located in downtown Sacramento, where the American River meets the Sacramento River. "When you're bringing a new rock festival to any city, it's important to have a great local radio partner, and a strong feeder system of stations to support the show," says festival creator/producer Danny Wimmer of Arms Division Concerts/DWP/Right Arm Entertainment. "Sacramento has this and more. Its deep foundation in rock – including bands like Deftones and Oleander, music executives coming out of the area, and vital stations like KDOT, KBRE, and our partner station 98 Rock – proves that rock is a mainstay in Northern California." More details.



Tarja Turunen Returning With Act I
Tarja Turunen has set a September 4th North American release date for, Act I, which will be released in 2-CD, 2-DVD and Blu-Ray format.

The first ever live audio/video offering from the former Nightwish soprano, Act 1 was recorded and filmed with 10 HD cameras at the breathtaking Teatro El Círculo in Rosario, Argentina in March 2012.

With an track listing of solo tunes, Nightwish classics and various covers including a rendition of Andrew Lloyd Webber's "The Phantom Of The Opera," Gary Moore's "Over The Hills and Far Away," Whitesnake's "Still Of The Night" and a variety of video extras, Act I provides a full-fledged bill of fare to every diehard Tarja fan. more on this story



Robert Cray Album and Tour Coming
Robert Cray will release his brand new studio album "Nothin But Love" on Monday August 27th in the UK.

He will precede the effort with a UK tour which kicks off on June 26th with a date at the Shepherds Bush Empire (as part of London Blues Fest).

In addition to his London Blues Fest concert at the Shepherd's Bush Empire on June 26th, Robert Cray other UK dates include; Glasgow 02 ABC (June 28), Birmingham Town Hall (June 29), Warrington Pyramid & Parr Hall (June 30), Holmfirth Picturedrome (July 2), Reading Sub89 (July 3) and Brighton Concorde 2 (July 4). more on this story



Prong Expand Summer Tour Plans
Prong have added a handful of headlining dates to their summer tour plans with Clutch and Corrosion of Conformity, as well as two more festival appearances.

The first is at the "Slang Metalfest" in Danville, IL on August 25th and the second is an appearance at the "Bumbershoot" in Seattle, WA on September 1st.

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



Jane's Addiction, Florence and the Machine and Weezer For SoundTown Fest
Jane's Addiction, Florence and the Machine and Weezer are set to headline the SoundTown Music and Camping Festival.

The event will take place on July 27-28, 2012, with a kickoff party on Thursday, July 26, at Somerset Amphitheater in Somerset, Wis.

"We are thrilled to announce a lineup that will be sure to draw music and camping fans from across the country," Somerset Amphitheater General Manager Matt Mithun said more on this story



Threshold Reveal March Of Progress Details
Threshold have set an August 31st release date for their new studio album, entitled "March Of Progress."

"March Of Progress" was recorded and produced in Thin Ice Studios (Dragonforce, Pendragon) by band members Karl Groom and Richard West with additional production at Eightspace Studio (League of Lights, The Morning After).

Vocal duties on "March of Progress" have been performed by Threshold's original front man Damian Wilson (Star One, Headspace), who's been back touring with the band since the release of "Dead Reckoning." more on this story



B Sides


Singled Out: Cory Branan's Bad Man
Today Cory Branan tells us about the song "Bad Man" from his brand new album "Mutt". Here is the story:

This one definitely came from living in Memphis where people are all up in your business. It's about maybe deserving a bad reputation but for far more interesting reasons than small town gossip mongers are aware of. The "you aint afraid of no alleyway when you are the thing in the dark" line came directly out, bad grammar and all, while I was taking a seedy shortcut with a friend.

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



Bruce Springsteen Movie Hits The Web
(Gibson) CNN has released a new film that sees Bruce Springsteen talking about the making of his latest studio album, Wrecking Ball.

The candid film is based around an interview that Springsteen conducted in front of a live studio audience earlier this year. You can watch the movie, Bruce Springsteen and The Working Man, at CNN here.

U.K. magazine Uncut has also launched an iPad app dedicated to the history of "The Boss." It chronicles the history of the man from the early to mid-'70s, right up to the release of Wrecking Ball in 2012. more on this story





Halestorm Release Flint Focused I Miss the Misery Video
(Banana 101.5) Halestorm love playing Flint, Michigan so much, they shot their entire music video for 'I Miss the Misery' there.

Halestorm's video for the new single features many recognizable Flint landmarks, most notably The Machine Shop.

The footage of their performance was shot during a very special sold out concert on May 18th, the day before their set at Rock on the Range. Watch it here.



New Green Day Somewhere Between AC/DC And The Early Beatles?
(Gibson) Green Day's Billie Joe Armstrong had described the band's new trilogy project, iUno! ¡Dos! ¡Tré!, as a crazy idea that's working well.

Musically, he told Rolling Stone, it's power pop. "We wanted something punchier, more power pop – somewhere between AC/DC and the early Beatles," he said.

Armstrong also described the recording process this time around. "The last two records were studio albums," he said. "This one – we started rehearsing every day, constructing these songs together. It felt like we were all in a room jamming – everyone in the mix, throwing out ideas. If you listen to it, it feels grand. But it also feels like a garage band." more on this story





Arjen Lucassen Releases Pink Beatles in a Purple Zeppelin Video
(InsideOut) Arjen Lucassen has released a new music video for the track "Pink Beatles in a Purple Zeppelin," taken from his recently released concept solo album, Lost In The New Real.

The video was mainly shot where Arjen grew up, near the sea in Holland. In regards to the video, Arjen comments: "It's a very 'Dutch' clip, windmills and all! So you could say this clip goes back to my roots, also musically. It features many visual links (at least 10!) to the bands and albums that I grew up listening to. Peace, man!" To watch it here.

Featuring artwork created by Arjen and renowned designer Claudio Bergamin, plus an appearance by legendary actor Rutger Hauer as the album's narrator, Lost In The New Real is a double-CD that tells the story of Mr. L, a 21st century man who was cryo-preserved at the moment of clinical death from a terminal disease. more on this story



Grumpy Old Punks Deliver Anarchy in the Prostate
(APR) Grumpy Old Punks have released a new EP, Anarchy in the Prostate, via iTunes and a limited edition vinyl 45rpm.

It's made up of songs inspired by the daily struggles and frustrations faced by the middle age band members who use punk rock as a vehicle to humorously voice their frustration at the adult toils they must endure.

"What the hell does an eighteen year old know about anger or angst?" barks lead singer LouB. "They live at home and have nothing worse to sweat than term papers or the occasional STD. Pure punk rock wrath can best be musically manifested by those who know the mundane, commonplace horrors of the real world: balding, paunchy, frustrated, middle age guys."

Today's Day In Rock News!

Pearl Jam Allegedly Robbed By Former Management Exec
The former CFO at Pearl Jam's management company, Curtis Management, has been charged with 25 counts of first-degree theft and 8 counts of second-degree theft.
King County prosecutors filed felony charges against Rickey Charles Goodrich, who stands accused of stealing steal $380,000 from the management firm before he was terminated in September of 2010.

Seattle PI reports that "Prosecutors allege Goodrich transferred money from company accounts to pay debts held by himself and his wife. He is also alleged to have used band credit cards to pay for personal expenses, including family vacations and wine."

You can read their full report for more details here.



Linkin Park Streaming New Album
Linkin Park fans will have wait patiently until next Tuesday, June 26th to get their hands on the band's new album, but that doesn't mean you have to wait until then to hear it!

iTunes is offering Linkin Park fans an advance free stream of the group's forthcoming album, Living Things.

All you need to listen is your ears and to have the iTunes software installed on your computer and you can grab a listen to the full album here.



Record Co Forced Def Leppard To Rerecord Classics
(hennemusic) Last month, Def Leppard released newly-rerecorded versions of two of their classic hits from the 1980s: "Pour Some Sugar On Me" and "Rock Of Ages."

The concept was to tie in the name of their summer tour – Rock of Ages – with the Broadway play-turned film of the same name starring Tom Cruise, who also sings "Sugar" on the soundtrack album…another good reason for the UK rockers to keep their name front and center.

But there's more to it than that. "It was, well, let's just say a sensible business decision on our part," Leppard vocalist Joe Elliott tells MTVHive. "How can I put this politely? We were having a major disagreement with our ex-record label about the digital rights for our back catalog. We couldn't come to a mutual understanding that seemed fair for both sides. So we finally just decided to re-record all our hits. We started with 'Sugar' and 'Rock of Ages,' and I think we did a pretty good job. It's hard work trying to recreate something you did 30 years ago." more on this story



Ozzy Wants Son Jack To Get Second Opinion On MS
(Classic Rock) Ozzy Osbourne wants his son Jack to get a second opinion from doctors after he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

The Black Sabbath singer says: "I was misdiagnosed with MS a few years ago. It took them six months to work out I have a rare hereditary tremor called Parkin Syndrome."

Jack, 26, was given the news two months after he became a father. Read more rock news including Layne Staley, Jon Anderson, Slayer, Exodus and more here.



Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, Pearl Jam For Isle of Wight Broadcast
(VH1) Palladia plans to air the best of this year's "Isle of Wight Festival 2012" and simulcast with VH1 Classic with limited, commercial interruption this Sunday, June 24th at 9 PM-12 AM/6 PM-9PM PT.

This special, one-time-only event will celebrate one of the oldest, biggest and most legendary ongoing rock festivals in the world. Talent scheduled to appear include: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Pearl Jam, Jessie J, Elbow, Madness, Big Country, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds, and Joan Armatrading. All talent appearances are subject to change.

The 3-hour special will be hosted by Jim Shearer – host of host of VH1's "Top 20 Video Countdown" and music correspondent for "VH1 Big Morning Buzz Live." more on this story



LAPD Recover Animals As Leaders Stolen Property
Animals As Leaders returned home to Los Angeles to found they have been robbed, but the LAPD have recovered some of their property.

They reported a few days ago, "Upon returning home to our house in LA we discovered that we'd been robbed while were out on tour. The thieves were able to get away with Javier's Chevy Blazer and all of the equipment we didn't have on tour with us. 10 guitars in total. This includes many of our one of a kind custom instruments (Stranberg, Rick Toone) as well as amplifiers, PA equipment and personal items."

Yesterday the band updated fans with, "We've actually got some good news to report! The LAPD successfully recovered Javier's car. The even better news is that one of the stolen guitars was in the back seat! I'm now reunited with Strandberg #17. We want to commend the LAPD for their ability to find the stolen vehicle within 24 hours of receiving the police report. Hopefully this is the key to finding the rest of the guitars! Something still may pop up online so please keep your eyes open. Thanks for all of the support."





Sebastian Bach Makes Life Hell For Opening Band
(Classic Rock) Irish band Stormzone have revealed how Sebastian Bach made their lives hell when they supported him on last week's UK tour.

They say he blocked access to their dressing room, made it nearly impossible for them to play their set – then sent them home without full pay before the three-date trek was over.

The four-piece includes former Sweet Savage drummer Davy Bates, who's been credited as an influence on Metallica sticksman Lars Ulrich. Read their wild tale here.



Zac Brown Band, Pearl Jam and Foo Fighters Lead DeLuna Fest
Zac Brown Band will join previously announced headliners Pearl Jam and Foo Fighters at the 2012 DeLuna Fest.

The festival will take place in Pensacola Beach, FL during the weekend of September 21 – 23, 2012.

Also joining the lineup are Fitz and the Tantrums, Honey Island Swamp Band, The Canvas Waiting, Astronautalis, High On Fire, Brass-A-Holics and a Sunday Gospel Brunch set from The Legendary JCs. more on this story




Tim Armstrong Produced New Jimmy Cliff Album
Universal Music have set a July 17th release date for Jimmy Cliff's new album, Rebirth.

"I was inspired to re-visit my musical past and decided to go back to my roots on this record," said Cliff. "Rebirth is a new chapter in my life and signifies a rebirth in my career and all I have left to accomplish."

Rebirth once again pairs Cliff with Rancid's Tim Armstrong, who produced the thirteen-track album. Armstrong also produced Cliff's Sacred Fire EP which was released late in 2011. more on this story



Rush Taking String Ensemble On Tour
(Gibson) Rush will be utilizing a string section for their upcoming Clockwork Angels tour. Guitarist Alex Lifeson said there would be eight to ten string players in the ensemble.

He told Billboard: "It's just something different for us, and I can't wait to hear what it sounds like. As far as what the set list will look like, there will be a number of songs from the new album.

"The set list is quite fluid these days. We're dropping and replacing songs constantly, and that's the way it always goes before we get into rehearsals. There's a great deal of pressure on us now to do the whole record, which we don't anticipate. I think our intention is probably to prepare the whole thing; whether we'll do it or not we're still not sure, especially on the first leg of the tour." more on this story






Jackson Browne Expands Acoustic Tour
Jackson Browne has added additional Fall dates to his 2012 U.S. Acoustic Tour which will feature support from special guest Sara Watkins.

The tour, which begins this summer on July 14 in Charlotte, NC runs thru mid-August, before picking up again mid-October and ending on November 15 in Colorado Springs, CO.

Playing guitar and piano, Jackson will perform songs from his entire body of work, with varying set lists each night. more on this story



Dew-Scented Announce Special Guests On New Album
Dew-Scented have tapped Rob Urbinati (Sacrifice), Dennis Schneider (Retaliation/ Final Breath) and Dan Swano (Edge of Sanity/Bloodbath) as guests on their new album, Icarus, which will be released on July 31st.

Rob Urbinati (Sacrifice) says: "Sacrifice have been honored by Dew-scented in the past with a cover song ("Apocaplyse Inside" on 1999's "Ill-Natured"); now I am honored to be included on the track 'Gleaming Like Silver.'" Dew-scented vocalist Leif Jensen claims that Sacrifice "are one of the best and most underrated thrash metal bands ever" and admits that Sacrifice have had a big influence on his vocals.

No stranger to the band, Dennis Schneider (Retaliation/ Final Breath) is slated to appear on both tracks "The Fall of Man" and "Perpetuated." The band came up with the idea to have him be a part of "Icarus" from jamming with him during rehearsals. Schneider had the following to say: "I've been hooked on Dew-scented ever since the release of 'Impact' back in 2003. When they asked me to do a few guest leads on the new album, I didn't hesitate one second. I'm really happy with the way it turned out – 'Icarus' will rip your head off!" more on this story



Thy Will Be Done Releasing New EP
Thy Will Be Done have finished recording a brand new EP which they plan to release later this summer. Their camp sent out these details:

The band, renowned for their DIY approach, engineered the EP themselves and teamed up once again with acclaimed metal producer Zeuss to mix their six brand new studio tracks. With influences and roots that harkens the listener back to metal's glory days, and songs and arrangements that echo the voice of the oppressed and broken, the end result is a release that brings hope and far surpasses its predecessors, and in all aspects possesses the capabilities of cementing Thy Will Be Done's position in the metal world. More details, including title and release date will be revealed in the coming weeks.

J. Costa commented on the new EP: "There's always a sense of accomplishment when unveiling a piece of expression that we've created. Personally, what makes this not so much different as much as special, is that it represents my rediscovery of exactly why I enjoy expressing myself through the medium of music. more on this story



Sylo's Jared McCasland Drowns
(The Metal Den) Sylo bassist Jared McCasland died this week from drowning. He was 30-years old.

Sylo band manager JB Griffin of WEMG has released this official statement: "Jared was the backbone of SYLO. He was a great musician and we are going to truly miss him. Words cannot describe what we are feeling right now. Thanks to all the fans that have supported Jared and SYLO up to this point and we will give you more information as this works itself out."

Sylo won TMD's first Battle of The Bands contest in 2011 and in June/2012 signed a worldwide label representation agreement to release their forthcoming debut full-length album with The Metal Den Records. more on this story




Metal Festival Gamble Paid Off For Europe
(Classic Rock) Europe risked upsetting fans of heavier music when they headlined the Bloodstock Open Air festival in 2009 but the gamble paid off, says singer Joey Tempest.

Reaction was mixed when event organisers announced the Swedish outfit were to close out a bill including Cradle of Filth, Blind Gardian, Carcass, Satyricon and Amon Amarth.

Tensions increased after Cradle of Filth, playing the night before Europe, were pelted with missiles and guitarist Paul Allender was taken to hospital. But instead of being a disaster, Tempest says the set gave them a new lease of life in an environment where they'd been all but forgotten. more on this story



The Beatles' First U.S. Tour Focus of New Exhibition
(Gibson) The Beatles' first U.S. tour is being documented in a new photo exhibition in New York.

According to NME the band were photographed by Curt Gunther, and his Unseen Beatles exhibition can be viewed at the Morrison Hotel Gallery in Soho.

Gunther's son told Rolling Stone that his father had incredible access to The Beatles on the tour: "He was there on every plane ride and in every hotel room. I think there was real, genuine affection between The Beatles and my dad." more on this story





Lee Aaron Releases New DVD
(hennemusic) Lee Aaron today releases her new DVD, "Live In Sweden." Recorded at the 2011 Sweden Rock Festival, the show marked Aaron's first performance in Sweden.

Lee had the distinction of being the only Canadian act featured on the bill, which also featured Ozzy Osbourne, Thin Lizzy, Black Label Society and Styx, among others.

"Live In Sweden" features Lee's performance, with bonus features that include her press conference, backstage interview, Lee Aaron's special message to Sweden Rock fans and tons of pictures. more on this story



B Sides


Singled Out: Ian Frank
Today Ian Frank tells us about his song "Take The Long Way" from their new album "Breaking Grounds". Here is the story:

"Take The Long Way" was a song that actually came to me pretty quickly. Ironic, as the song is really about the need to slow down and take the time to enjoy life more often… yet the song was penned swiftly.

I feel like society is just so fast paced and I am always runnin' to try and catch up…. Every one around me is always looking for the short cut, instant gratification.

Society now breeds shorter attention spans and encourages efficiency and getting there quickly…. I wrote this song to help remind myself and others that we can take the long way and still find fulfillment and/or meet our needs, or the needs of others… It's a tribute to One of Aesop's Fables "The Tortoise and the Hare"…. Wherein the slower tortoise wins the race.

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



Bret Michaels Launches Pet Product Line
(hennemusic) Poison singer Bret Michaels is teaming up with PetSmart to launch his new Bret Michaels Pets Rock collection.

Available exclusively at PetSmart stores in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico and online at PetSmart.com, the collection includes toys, beds, apparel, collars, leashes, and bowls.

"I know there are other pet parents like me who want to show off their pets in rock-star style," said Michaels. "I've been a pet lover since I was a child so I created this line for everyone who wants something unique to rock their pets' world." more on this story



Remembering Chet Atkins
(Gibson) Over the years the word "revolutionary" has been bandied about from time to time to describe some of the great musical pioneers who have helped shape the musical landscape. Rarely, however, has the word been more fitting than when describing Chet Atkins.

Born Chester Burton Atkins on this day in 1924 in Luttrell, TN, Atkins was the youngest of four children, all who lived with their mother after their parents divorced when Chet was just six. Music was always an outlet for the Atkins family, and in particular, Chet, whose natural ability was evident very early in life. Before the age of nine he'd become quite proficient on the ukulele and fiddle before ultimately landing his first guitar, which his older brother, Lowell, traded to him for an old pistol and some chores.

At the time, of course, the nation was in the throes of the Great Depression. Atkins said in his 1974 autobiography, Chet Atkins: Country Gentleman: "We were so poor and everybody around us was so poor that it was the forties before anyone even knew there had been a depression." To compound the Atkins' difficulties, Chet suffered from severe asthma, which forced him to relocate to Fortson, Georgia to live with his father. So severe was his affliction that he had to sleep in a straight-back chair to help keep his lungs open. This debilitating condition, ironically, helped him as a guitarist because he learned to fall asleep, sitting upright in his chair, holding his guitar, which he played for hours on end.

By the time Atkins was in high school he was an accomplished guitarist. It was around this time that his style began to really evolve, thanks in no small part to the great Merle Travis, whom Atkins listened to on the radio. Travis was a master picker, and this greatly influenced young Chet, who worked on, and perfected, his own four-finger (thumb and three fingers) picking style.

Today's Day In Rock News!

Red Hot Chili Peppers Releasing 18 New Songs
Red Hot Chili Peppers plan to release 18 previously unreleased songs from the "I'm With You" recording sessions beginning in August.
Each of the tracks will be available worldwide both digitally and on vinyl, with two sides per seven-inch. Each of the nine seven-inches released will be able to combined by fans to create one larger piece of artwork.

The first pair of sides - "Strange Man" on the A-side and "Long Progression" on the B-side - will be released on August 14, 2012. more on this story



Rolling Stones Rep Shoots Down Farewell Show Report
(Gibson) The Rolling Stones have moved quickly to shoot down a rumor which broke overnight that the band would play their last-ever concert at the Glastonbury festival in the U.K. in 2013.

The report in The Mirror in the U.K. quotes "a band insider" as saying, "All four members have agreed that next year is the right time to have one final hurrah and put on the gig of their lives. It's a case of now or never, and obviously Glastonbury is the most important festival on the circuit. Everybody's incredibly excited ... it's a final bow."

However, when The Guardian contacted the band's representatives they were told that not only is the talk of retirement false, but the band isn't even planning to play Glastonbury. more on this story





Hawkwind's John Harrison Dies
Former Hawkwind guitarist Huw Lloyd-Langton issued a statement about the death of John Harrison, a founding member of the group who died in his sleep on May 26, 2012 after a long battle with Huntington disease. He would have been 70 on May 28th.

Huw issued this statement: "John was an integral part of Hawkwind's formation and eventual success. His honest, solid character and playing held the whole thing together in that first year of the group's existence (in more ways than one)! All who worked with him and have followed in his footsteps, i.e. Lemmy :) and all Hawkfans, old & young. Wherever you are owe him big time! May he Rock In Peace wherever he is now!"

Cleopatra Records says John's throbbing and inventive bass parts on the band's self-titled 1970 release laid the foundation for Hawkwind's influential sound, both then and now. After his departure from the band, John also worked successfully as a producer and staff engineer at Village Recorders in Los Angeles. more on this story



Skid Row Refused Rock of Ages Use Of Hit Song
(hennemusic) The Broadway play-turned-movie Rock Of Ages opened this past weekend with disappointing results.

The Tom Cruise flick landed in 3rd place at the box office with ticket sales of just $15.1 million, placing it behind "Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted" ($35.5 million) and "Prometheus" ($20.2 million).

One of the songs music fans won't hear in the movie is Skid Row's hit, "I Remember You." Former frontman Sebastian Bach tells Sonic Shocks, "The fact is Snake [Dave Sabo, Skid Row guitarist] and Rachel [Bolan, Skid Row bassist], who have co-writing credits for 'I Remember You', refused to allow it to be in the movie," explains Bach. "[The producers of 'Rock Of Ages'] wanted 'I Remember You' [to be] in the play and the movie, but Snake and Rachel don't like money. [Laughs] They have an aversion to cash. They'd rather not have cash. I don't know why — you can interview them about that — but that is the truth of the matter. The play wanted the [song] and they [Skid Row members] didn't want it in the movie — because money is bad." more on this story



Morrissey Plans North American Tour
Morrissey will be hitting the road this fall for a North American Tour that will include a special one-off with Iggy and The Stooges.

The trek kicks off in Boston on October 5th and ending in Atlantic City on December 8th.

The 33-city tour includes the special date at the Staples Center with special guests Iggy and The Stooges, as well as, his first NYC performance in three years at Radio City Music Hall. more on this story



Layne Staley Songs in New Movie Have Been Heard Before
(Banana 101.5) Contrary to the initial reports, the songs featuring late Alice in Chains singer Layne Staley from the film 'Grassroots' may not be on everyone's radar, but they are definitely not unknown. In fact, one of them was already released in the mid 1990s.

We initially wrote about Paste Magazine's report on the "previously unheard" Staley songs that were set to be included in 'Grassroots,' but now it seems as though that description is not completely accurate.

According to Grunge Report, the two songs that appear in the film are 'It's Coming After' and 'Things You Do.' The former was released on Second Coming's 1994 debut album, ' L.O.V.Evil,' and is well known among Staley enthusiasts. Second Coming featured Staley's bandmates from Alice N' Chains, the band he was in prior to Alice in Chains. More including YouTube videos with the songs.



Rock Hall Snub Doesn't Bother Rush
Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson has addressed the band's snubbing by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. A bone of contention with fans, Lifeson shrugs it off in an interview.

"Honestly, we really, really don't care about it," Lifeson tells Rolling Stone who's founder was also instrumental in starting the Rock Hall. "It's someone's thing, and they can do whatever they want with it. They can have whomever they like. It's their thing."

"It's a little bit different here in Canada," continues Lifeson. "We've received awards that mean an awful lot more to us than being in the Hall of Fame. We got the Governor General's Performing Arts Award a couple weeks ago. That's really the highest accolade you can get in this country for the performing arts, and it's recognized nationally, and I felt so proud as a Canadian to be in this esteemed group of artists that have been there for the last 20 years." You can read the full interview here.



Cavo Hitting The Road With Evanescence, Chevelle, Halestorm
Cavo have been added to the upcoming Carnival Of Madness Tour with Evanescence, Chevelle, Halestorm and New Medicine.

Kicking off Tuesday, July 31 in Springfield, IL, the 2012 trek will hit major cities across the U.S. including Boston, Baltimore, Atlanta, Detroit, Milwaukee, Chicago and Pittsburgh.

"We're really looking forward to the Carnival of Madness tour this summer," says Evanescence front woman Amy Lee about the upcoming tour. "We love Chevelle and haven't hit the road together in years, and I'm really stoked to finally be playing some shows with Halestorm. Naturally I'm a fan of strong women in music and Lzzy's voice is spectacular." more on this story



The Academy Is Singer William Beckett EP And Tour Coming
Former The Academy Is... singer William Beckett has set a July 17th as the release date for Winds Will Change, the second of three EP's he will release in 2012.

The EP was recorded in Phoenix, AZ and produced with Matt Grabe (A Rocket To The Moon, The Maine).

Following the release, Beckett will join Relient K and Hellogoodbye on a 19-city tour featuring stops in Seattle, San Diego, Austin and Denver. more on this story



Fiona Apple Releases New Album and Kicks Off Tour
Fiona Apple today releases her first album in seven years, The Idler Wheel is wiser / than the Driver of the Screw / and Whipping Cords will serve you more / than Ropes will ever do.

She will also kick off her summer headline tour today at the State Theatre in Ithaca, NY.

The first leg includes performances at The Governors Ball Music Festival on New York City's Randall's Island (6/24) and Nashville's historic Ryman Auditorium (7/13) and wraps up at the Hollywood Palladium in Hollywood, CA (7/29). more on this story



Slipknot's M. Shawn Crahan Plans Apocalyptic Nightmare Journey Events
Slipknot's M. Shawn Crahan aka Clown will soon embarking on his Apocalyptic Nightmare Journey. MSO sent over these details:

His first-ever art book collection of photography, the Apocalyptic Nightmare Journey will be released exclusively through MTV Books beginning June 19 worldwide.

As M. Shawn Crahan prepares to hit the road with Slipknot on June 30 as the headlining act on the Mayhem Festival and the newly announced Knotfest, August 17 and 18, he'll launch a series of book signings/Q&A's in select cities. more on this story



Widespread Panic's Jimmy Herring Releasing New Solo Album
Widespread Panic guitarist Jimmy Herring has set the release date of August 21 for his second solo album, Subject To Change Without Notice. MAD Ink sent over these details:

As the founding member of The Aquarium Rescue Unit, Project Z and Jazz is Dead, in addition to playing with everyone from The Allman Brothers Band, The Grateful Dead to Phil Lesh and Friends, and Bela Fleck, HERRING has made his indelible impact on the music world. He currently serves as the lead guitarist for the very popular American Band, Widespread Panic.

Prior to releasing his first solo outing, Lifeboat, Herring was known for his limitless improvisations, long flowing phrases, and highly charged, yet soulful, lead guitar that drew high praises from a diverse set within the musician community including Chick Corea, John McLaughlin to Dweezil Zappa. Throughout his early career, he plied his skills in multiple musical contexts, ranging from classically song-driven rock to technically demanding jazz fusion. more on this story



Lita Ford Settles Her Differences With Runaways Bandmates
(Classic Rock) Lita Ford has settled her differences with former Runaways Joan Jett and Cherie Currie but that's no guarantee the band will reunite.

She buried the hatchet after dinner dates with each ex-bandmate, putting to an end years of feuding and legal action.

Ford recently experience a lifestyle turnaround after ending a marriage she described as "like Ike and Tina Turner." She's put it behind her by working on new album Living Like a Runaway, which she hopes will help dull the memories of 2009 release Wicked Wonderland, made in partnership with ex-husband Jim Gillette.

Now she reveals she's gone further and made things right with Jett and Currie. more on this story



Mike Keneally Completes Collaborative Album With XTC Frontman
(Gibson) Multi-instrumentalist Mike Keneally has wrapped up work on Wing Beat Fantastic, an album featuring a number of songs written with XTC frontman Andy Partridge. "It's done," Keneally says. "Finally. It's done. Mastered, packaged, the lot. The release date is July 24 but we'll make it available for pre-order before then."

In an interview with Chicago Music Magazine recently, Keneally described Wing Beat Fantastic as "almost like a pop album for me. It's more accessible than my stuff that's normally melodic. It's rocking, but it's also very direct. I'm also including a group of other songs that I wrote on my own. Its my own boundaries that I'm trying to break whenever I do anything."

Aside from playing guitar in the live incarnation of Dethklok and keys in Joe Satriani's band, Keneally's musical resume includes guitar and keys in Steve Vai's band, Dream Theater vocalist James LaBrie's Mullmuzzler, and a tour as Frank Zappa's final "stunt guitarist" on Zappa's last tour in 1988. more on this story





Caravan's For Girls Who Grow Plump In The Night 40th Anniversary Tour
Caravan will be celebrating the 40th anniversary of one of their landmark albums with 10-date UK tour early next year.

The tour kicks off on 8th January 2013 at the prestigious Queen Elizabeth Hall, at London's Southbank Centre.

The tour will see Caravan celebrate the 40th Anniversary of what many critics regard to be one of the most influential British prog albums of all time; 1973's "For Girls Who Grow Plump In The Night". more on this story



The Treatment Releasing Album Ahead of KISS and Motley Crue Tour
The Treatment will release their debut album, This Might Hurt on July 17, 2012, a few days before embarking on their first North American tour where they will be supporting KISS and Motley Crue.

Since the release of the album outside of North America, the band has done extensive touring in the UK and Europe—supporting Alice Cooper, Motorhead, Steel Panther, and Thin Lizzy.

The band is appearing this month at UK's Download festival, Belgium's Grasspop Festival, Germany's Reload Festival, and Switzerland's Earshaker Days Festival. more on this story



The Trews Announce North American Live Dates
The Trews will be returning to North America for a handful of summer dates in July to support their fourth full-length studio album, Hope & Ruin.

The Trews begin their mini-tour on July 18 at their familiar haunt, Artpark in Lewiston, where they've played multiple times to packed crowds in the thousands.

The quartet then head west to Wisconsin and Chicago before heading back east to Philadelphia, Asbury Park and finally up to New Hampshire to close out on July 27. more on this story



Johnny A Launches American Guitarist TV,
(Gibson) Johnny A. has launched American Guitarist TV, a new YouTube channel where he shares his expertise, answers fan questions and gives viewers an insight into his creative process.

In preparation for his next album (due in February), Johnny A. is currently expanding his studio with legendary studio designer John Storyk, studio designer at Walters-Storyk Design Group and designer of Jimi Hendrix's Electric Lady Studio, with completion expected by the end of August.

Recently, Johnny A. sat in with fellow Gibson signature artist Joe Bonamassa at the Casino Ballroom in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, to perform "Look Over Yonders Wall." Fan-filmed footage of the performance is here.





White Wizzard, Icarus Witch and Widow Tour
White Wizzard will be hitting the road this summer for a North American tour which will kick off on August 9th in Kansas City, Missouri.

The band will be joined on the two-week 'North American Assault' tour by fellow heavy metal bands Icarus Witch and Widow.

White Wizzard mainman and bassist Jon Leon comments: "White Wizzard is excited to be doing an East Coast tour with the great bands Icarus Witch and Widow - both are fantastic and we think it is a fantastic bill. Come out if you want to see three bands doing traditional heavy metal and have a blast... See you there!" more on this story



B Sides


Singled Out: The Overseer
Today The Overseer's drummer Abishai Collingsworth and singer Anthony Rivera tells us about the song "Amend" from their brand new album "We Search, We Dig," which was released by Solid State today. Here is the story:

Abishai- "I think we can all agree that this is our favorite song on the record. I feel the dynamics in this song are very well-rounded and can appeal to many listeners. The writing process for this song was similar to how we write most of our songs. Darren demoed the song out on GarageBand and presented it to us at a practice. Once we had an outline for the song, we had a pretty clear vision of where we wanted to go with it. Me and Brad sat down to write the patterns where the kick and bass match up at the beginning. I honestly wasn't sold on the intro at first until the vocals were set. It really brought life and intensity to the song. We jammed this song for months until I had the drums set. I really like to break the guitar riffs down and write a drum line that will compliment them. We pre-proed the song in Joplin, MO with ZombieLife Studios and producer Jerrod Naff. There, I could really sit back and listen to the song as a whole and ended up changing a couple drum fills and adding accents where the guitars hit. Once you record what you've written, you can take a step back and see how everything lines up. In pre-pro, we changed and added things we realized didn't hit as well as we thought. We tried many different melodies before we settled on the choruses you hear now. The song came together really well and were super stoked on the changes we've made to it and hope you will be too!"

Anthony- "For the most part, I will have lyrics already written for each song we write. For this song I wanted to to try something different. I waited until the music was complete to see how the song made me feel when I heard it. When I got the song I knew exactly what I wanted to write about and the way it made me feel. Amend is a very emotional and intense song that is based around many marriages falling apart in our generation. I feel that we live in a generation that gives up too easily and takes marriage very lightly. Many of us come from broken homes and that needs to change. The lyric "You gave your heart, till death do us part" hits me really hard. No one is perfect and marriage is a battle, but we vow to be together till death, that man shouldn't break that bond. This song gives hope that true love can mend a marriage. Once I have my screaming parts written, Darren and I will get together to write out melodies. He will read what I have lyrically and then write what he gets from the meaning of the song for the choruses, etc. I think it brings out more diversity having another band member bring their ideas to the meaning of the song."

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




Aerosmith Release Backstage Video
(hennemusic) Aerosmith kicked off their Global Warming tour this past Saturday night in Minneapolis.

The Boston rockers return to the road for a summer tour with Cheap Trick, while also promoting their new single, "Legendary Child."

Aerosmith have released backstage video from opening night; fans can see the guys comparing wardrobes and having a laugh just moments before taking the stage to play a sold-out Target Center. Watch the video here.




Wolves At The Gate Release Dead Man Video
Wolves At The Gate have released a new music video for their new song "Dead Man."

The track comes from the band's upcoming full-length Captors set for release on July 3rd via Solid State Records.

The debut full-length is the follow-up to the band's independently released EP We Are The Ones. Watch the video.



Twin Atlantic Giving Away EP
Twin Atlantic are celebrating their tour supporting Blink-182 by giving away a free EP.

The EP features tracks from their sold-out show at Glasgow's O2 Academy and a special acoustic performance of previous single ' Make A Beast Of Myself' as well as 'Crashland'.

Fans can get their free download by visiting the band's Facebook page here and following to links to 'Twin Atlantic Live EP'.

Currently in the middle of supporting Blink-182 at their UK arena shows, the Scottish rockers have also recently announced a 10 date jaunt around the UK this autumn. more on this story



Metallica Share Sonisphere Helsinki Footage
(hennemusic) Metallica continue to share concert footage from their 2012 European Summer Vacation tour.

The band played the Sonisphere festival in Helsinki, Finland on June 4. Metallica are now sharing some footage from the event.

The footage includes video of the pre-show meet and greet and "The Shortest Straw" from the concert.

Today's Day In Rock News!

Rolling Stones Farewell Show Rumor
(hennemusic) A UK tabloid is reporting The Rolling Stones will play their farewell show at the 2013 Glastonbury festival.
The Mirror reports the Stones will play the coveted Sunday night headline slot on the Pyramid stage after talks with festival organizers.

"All four members have agreed that next year is the right time to have one final hurrah and put on the gig of their lives," a source tells The Mirror. "It's a case of now or never, and obviously Glastonbury is the most important festival on the circuit. Everybody's incredibly excited... it's a final bow." more on this story



Fatal Radiohead Stage Collapse
(Classic Rock) Radiohead's drum tech Scott Johnson was killed and three others injured when a stage collapsed hours before the band played in Canada.

Witnesses say the structure "caved in on itself" leaving Johnson, 33, crushed underneath. A 45-year-old suffered a head wound and two others sustained minor injuries.

The tragedy took place a week after ZZ Top refused to play a show saying there was a risk of a stage collapse – although that statement has been questioned by event organisers.

Radiohead crew were setting the stage at Downsview Park, Toronto, when the structure fell in. Around 1000 people were in the 35,000-capacity open-air arena. more on this story



Ozzy Osbourne's Son Jack Diagnosed With Multiple Sclerosis
(Classic Rock) Ozzy Osbourne and wife Sharon have revealed their pain after son Jack was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The news comes just two months after the 26-year-old TV presenter and moviemaker became a dad with fiancee Lisa Stelly.

MS is a disease of the nervous system which generates physical and mental symptoms including memory loss, slurred speech and dizziness. Its causes are not clearly understood.

Jack was diagnosed after he suffered the loss of 60% vision in his right eye. He tells Hello: "While I was waiting for the results I got really angry. Then I got really sad. After that I realised being angry and upset is only going to make it worse." More from Jack as well as Ozzy and Sharon here.



Deftones' Chi Cheng Hospitalized
Deftones bass player Chi Cheng has been hospitalized for an infection after returning home to California last week from a brain injury clinic where he had been receiving treatment.

Gina of OneloveforChi.com website said on Friday, "chi is in ICU on 3 antibiotics for pneumonia. blood pressure and oxygen are both low. please send healing."

Lambgoat reports that Cheng's mother, Jeanne Marie Cheng posted this message online, "[Chi] just got home last night from NJ and is in ER with something serious going on... pneumonia and don't know what else. Not good!" The latest updates should be posted here as they are known.



Paul Stanley Can See Gene Simmon's Ego From His House
(Classic Rock) Paul Stanley admits Kiss bandmate Gene Simmons lets his ego run away with him – and talks as if their achievements as a partnership are all his own work.

And the frontman is amazed that anyone would pay attention to a musician's opinions on other matters, which is why he keeps his thoughts to himself.

"Gene lives about five minutes from me -– I can see his ego from my house!," Stanley tells CNN. "Gene enjoys being out there saying 'me, me, me' when it's actually 'we, we, we.' We're partners, and part of the dynamic of a successful partnership is knowing its limitations.

"Friends come and go; we're family, which is more important." more on this story




Joe Perry, Ace Frehley, Michael Anthony on New Bret Michaels Album
(Gibson) Poison frontman Bret Michaels has teamed up with a stellar cast for a new solo album that's slated to arrive late July.

Bret Michaels and Friends: Get Your Rock On will include guest appearances by Aerosmith's Joe Perry, Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley, ex-Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony, Def Leppard's Phil Collen and Lynyrd Skynyrd's Rickey Medlocke and Peter Keys. The record also will feature a few major artists from outside the world of rock — Jimmy Buffett, country legend Loretta Lynn and rapper Lil Jon.

Talking to Billboard about the album, Michaels says, "I have either jammed with, partied with, or hung out with every friend that joined me on this album. There is such an awesome and diverse mix of talent on this record…It was truly one of the highlights of my career." more on this story






Kerry King Updates Slayer Fans On Jeff's Recovery and New Music
(Banana 101.5) Slayer axe-man Kerry King gives the lowdown on co-guitarist Jeff Hanneman's rehabilitation progress, the rumored two-song EP and their in-the-works new album in a new interview.

"If you look at him, he looks fine. But playing the intricate things that we do, he's not ready to do that," King tells MTV of Slayer's decision to tour with Exodus guitarist Gary Holt in Hanneman's place. "He doesn't know if he has the stamina for an hour-and-fifteen-minute set. He can play any of the slower stuff and do it just like the record. But we made a name for ourselves, historically, for being good live, so we had to make the decision and say, 'You've gotta get better before you try to come back. If you come back, make it a special thing, not just an adequate thing.'"

Jeff's absence hasn't slowed the band from moving forward in the studio either, as they have been working on material for a new album and just finished two songs that they're unsure of what to do with. Read what he has to say about that here.



Rob Zombie Plans His 'Best Record Yet'
(Banana 101.5) As Rob Zombie puts the finishing touches on his upcoming witchcraft horror flick 'The Lords of Salem,' he is simultaneously preparing to enter the studio to record what he calls his "best record yet."

Bob Marlette, known for in the world of rock for his work with bands like Black Sabbath, Shinedown and Seether, has been announced as the producer for Zombie's forthcoming fifth solo album.

Marlette established a working relationship with current Zombie guitarist John 5 on the first album he produced, Red Square Black's 1994 'Square' EP, and later on a Marilyn Manson release. more on this story



Animals as Leaders Robbed While On Tour
(Classic Rock) Animals as Leaders' LA home was robbed while the band were on tour, resulting in the loss of 10 guitars and a range of gear.

The loss comes as frontman Javier Reyes fights what he says was a wrongful arrest during the tour.

A band statement says: "This is beyond devastating. We know so many of you have been supportive with Javier's legal troubles. We need more of your help now to find some of these one-of-a-kind instruments that may pop up on eBay, Craigslists, pawn shops and music stores." more on this story



Robert Plant Adds Another U.S. Live Date
(hennemusic) Robert Plant has announced the second of two US concert dates this summer. Plant and his new band, The Sensational Space Shifters, will perform at Birmingham's historic Alabama Theatre on Sunday, August 12.

Robert is joined for this special show (from Austin, TX) by Patty Griffin. Since Patty's Grammy winning album "Downtown Church" in 2010, she has collaborated with Plant in the very successful Band Of Joy project.

Plant will also play the Sunflower River Blues and Gospel Festival's 25th anniversary in Clarksdale, Mississippi. more on this story


Billy Corgan Slams Former Smashing Pumpkins
(Banana 101.5) On the eve of opening a new chapter for the Smashing Pumpkins with the release of 'Oceania,' frontman Billy Corgan offers his thoughts on his former bandmates.

In an interview in the latest issue of NME, Corgan offered some harsh words on former drummer Jimmy Chamberlin's 2009 statement about leaving the band, that implied that he felt they were unjustly cashing in on the Pumpkins' name. "See now, here is a perfect opportunity for me to bury Jimmy as a f—ing liar. But I won't. That's a lie. That statement's just a flat-out lie," said Corgan. "I'm OK with Jimmy. We don't have a relationship at the moment, but I mean, I have no ill will. I want to see him do well."

Although Corgan did clarify his feelings about Chamberlin, he was not so kind when it came to another ex-bandmate. "James Iha, I think, is just a piece of s—. I think he's one of the worst human beings I've ever met in my life." And what about D'arcy?




Aerosmith Kick Off Summer Tour
(hennemusic) Aerosmith launched their Global Warming tour Saturday night in Minneapolis.

Joined by openers Cheap Trick, the Star Tribune reports Aerosmith rocked a sold-out Target Center before 14,000 fans for the opening night of their summer run across North America.

The band played material dating back to its 1973 debut and from its upcoming album, "Music From Another Dimension." Check out video clips from the show here.




Pantera Vaults Are Empty
(Classic Rock) Ex Pantera drummer Vinnie Paul has warned fans not to expect any more unreleased material after their recent track Piss surfaced because he doesn't think there's any more to be found.

"It was definitely forgotten about," he says of the song recorded during sessions for their 1992 album Vulgar Display of Power.

"For some reason, and I don't know why, we left it off the record. The people at the label were digging through the vaults and came across it. With a lot of these things there's a verse there, maybe a chorus. The songs is maybe half-way done and producers and engineers go in and finish it. But this song was truly finished. And it's special because I truly don't believe there's any more unheard Pantera tracks out there." More rock news here.



Green Day Tease New Album
(Gibson) Green Day will release three separate albums starting later this year. The trio have debuted the new cover of ¡Uno!, which features singer Billie Joe Armstrong's face, with his eyes crossed out, against a swamp green background, via a new YouTube clip.

The trailer shows the trio recording the new album in their studio. There's also a glimpse of a white board with, presumably, the record's song titles. They include "Carpe Diem," "Crushing Bastards" and "Makeout Party."

¡Uno! ¡Dos! ¡Tré! will be released in three stages, with the first album ¡Uno! coming out on 25 September in the U.S. ¡Dos! comes out on November 13 with ¡Tré! following on 15 January 15. All the albums are available to pre-order now from the band's official website Greenday.com. more on this story





Gene Simmons Daughter Tries Out For The X Factor
(TMZ) Gene Simmons spent Father's Day with Simon Cowell and Britney Spears ... but not by choice -- he joined his daughter at the last minute as she tried out for "X-Factor."

Sources close to "X-Factor" tell TMZ ... Sophie Simmons showed up at the San Francisco auditions yesterday ... saying she wanted a "fair shot" and telling the judges, "This isn't about my dad. This is about my audition."

Of course ... her famous father was in attendance, but we're told he almost didn't make it. Sources say the KISS front man got a surprise call from his 19-year-old daughter the night before ... saying she couldn't come home for Father's Day because she was trying her hand at the talent competition.

We're told Gene decided to hop on a private jet and made it just in time to see his daughter belt out some tunes.

We'll find out soon if the apple falls far from the tree. more on this story




B Sides


Singled Out: The Given Motion
Today Frank Mitaritonna from pop-rockers The Given Motion tells us about their song "Don't Blink" from their new album "Human Dictionary". Here is the story:

It was our favorite accident and we haven't done a show without it. People always tell us it's their favorite if they don't know us and it kills us because we try so hard with every song we write. This one was a fluke we can't seem to get past.

The whole tune is based around the combination of a drum rhythm CJ clapped in my living room and a guitar riff that I was messing with. I'm sure I had a totally different idea for what it should've been played against. As soon as he did it though, I knew we had something. The guitar was bouncy and together it formed this really engaging beat which you really hear in full at the very end of the song.

We got together as a band and like all our best tunes it came together in no time. Our recording habits then were fairly undisciplined and in summer 2008 we decided to add it to 2 other songs we were doing for a 6 song EP. We had no idea what the chorus would be, but CJ came in pretty open minded. Ryan and I had an idea how we wanted it to be and true to form, what he wound up singing was the total opposite. His original vocal idea for each chorus was what you hear him belting out over the last chorus. We needed something a little more restrained for the rest of the song and so, totally on the spot in the control room he jotted out some lyrics and I kinda hummed something basic and he went in and laid it down. When it came time for "Human Dictionary" we wanted to do the song again, right.

This song was really inspired by some advice by the father of his friend, about not missing out on life, he said "Don't Blink". We could've named the song "There Was a Time" or something like that, but this felt right to us. I think people can't help getting into this song and admittedly, neither can we. It's always been with us and we've done it so many ways, including beat-boxing it. It was a song we wrote on the cusp of breakup and it gave us the confidence we needed to know we could move on writing music together.

Hearing is believing. Now that you know the story behind the song, grab a free download right here!



Sites & Sounds: Rockapalooza- Rockwave and More
If you are looking for a rockin' destination this summer, antiMusic travel editor Kevin Wierzbicki gives us the lowdown on four great events taking place in June and July: Rockapalooza, A Taste Of Bloomington, Montreal Guitar Show and Montreal Guitar Show

Rockapalooza – Jackson, Michigan – June 23
Scheduled to appear at the 5th annual edition of this Midwestern rock festival are Puddle of Mudd, Saliva, Reha3, We Came as Romans, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Coolio, Afroman, I See Stars, Bobaflex, 12 Stones, Sore Eyes, the Elder Beer Men and 50 other acts. Bam Margera and Brandon Novak host. www.rockapalooza.net

A Taste Of Bloomington – Bloomington, Indiana – June 23
More than 50 food, drink and goodie vendors will be on hand to tempt any and every appetite as the 30th edition of A Taste of Bloomington takes over Showers Common in downtown B'Town. Upland Brewing and Bloomington Brewing Company and Oliver Winery and Butler Winery will be offering Indiana-made adult beverages and of course there'll be a "taste" for the ears, too: scheduled to appear are Main Squeeze, Hairbanger's Ball, Polka Boy, the Vallures and bluegrassers New Old Calvary. There'll also be a country stage featuring Ragin' Texans and a jazz corner featuring the Chris Parker Group and Neil Ferris Sound Machine. www.visitbloomington.com/taste

Montreal Guitar Show – Montreal, Quebec, Canada – June 29-July 1.
This show for "guitarophiles" takes place at the Hyatt Regency Montreal, right in the heart of the concurrently running Festival International de Jazz de Montreal (Montreal Jazz Festival) site. More than 140 acoustic and electric luthiers will display their wares and manufacturers of amps, effects pedals, etc. will also be exhibiting. Performing live will be Philip Catherine, Pierre Bensusan, Larry Coryell, Matt Schofield, Kelly Joe Phelps, Steve Hill and Paul Deslauriers. www.montrealguitarshow.com

Rockwave – Athens, Greece – June 30-July 2.
Ozzy Osbourne headlines Greece's biggest rock festival, also one of the biggest in all of Europe. Others scheduled to appear are The Prodigy, Iggy & the Stooges, Everlast, Nashville Pussy, Machine Head, Paradise Lost, Unisonic, the Locos and quite fitting for a show in Greece, the Planet of Zeus. www.rockwavefestival.gr



Eddie and Wolfgang Van Halen Appear On CNN
(hennemusic) The father-and-son team of Eddie and Wolfgang Van Halen were featured on CNN Friday as part of the station's Father's Day coverage.

An interview and feature with the pair appeared on CNN's Newsroom with Brooke Baldwin.

The feature focused on the recent summer tour date cancellations, peace and harmony within the band, future tour options and, naturally, the Father's Day theme.

"I'm just the luckiest father on the planet," says Eddie. "For what he's grown up in…he doesn't smoke, he doesn't drink, he doesn't do drugs."

"You're not so bad, either," replied Wolfgang.

"Anymore," added Eddie with a laugh. Watch the interview here.



Def Leppard Rock Fox News
(hennemusic) Def Leppard have been doing a lot of media interviews and sessions, to promote Rock of Ages film and the re-recording of two of their hits.

The media blitz included a live performance on Fox News Channel's Fox & Friends' Summer Concert Series on Friday morning.

Def Leppard's Rock Of Ages tour with Poison and Lita Ford is set to kick off on Wednesday in Salt Lake City. Check out the Fox appearance here.




Things You Might Not Know About Paul McCartney
(Gibson) Gibson.com wishes Paul McCartney Happy Birthday today. Few lives have been as thoroughly documented as the life of Paul McCartney. Biographies – both of The Beatles and Sir Paul – number in the hundreds, many filled with minute details about the public and private life of the former Beatle. Still, we managed to unearth a few interesting tidbits that may have eluded all but the most avid fans.

The artist who showed him the option to play guitar left-handed was … Slim Whitman.: McCartney's father bought him a trumpet for his birthday when McCartney turned 14, but the young lad had his Dad exchange it for a cheap acoustic. The future Beatle struggled mightily with the instrument until he happened upon a photograph of Slim Whitman, the country yodeler who played guitar lefty-style. McCartney flipped his guitar, modified the string setup, and soon wrote his first song, a ditty titled "I Lost My Little Girl."

Before they became Wings, McCartney's post-Beatles band nearly became … a paint thinner. In August 1971, when he was trying to get his post-Beatles band off the ground, McCartney was having a terrible time coming up with a name for the nascent group. Among the top name-candidates floated were The Dazzlers and, for reasons unknown, Turpentine. Alas, while praying for his wife, Linda, as she was giving birth to their daughter, the image of "wings" kept springing to mind.

His 1980 hit, "Coming Up," was a prime factor in John Lennon's decision to get back into music.: This charming ditty, from McCartney's homespun 1980 album, McCartney II, was first heard by Lennon as he was traveling with his assistant, Fred Seaman. The next morning, Lennon confessed to Seaman that he couldn't get the song's distinctive riff out of his head. Seaman later said the track stirred the muse in Lennon. "If Paul was writing decent music," Seaman wrote, in his memoir, "John felt compelled to take up the challenge." Read more here.





HearJapan Shutting Down
HearJapan sent over the sad news that they will be closing HearJapan.com on June 30th. They provided these details:

HearJapan launched a new version of the site in February that was over two years in the making. Unfortunately, there were many unanticipated costs in doing this that made HearJapan impossible to manage.

This website will be shut down by June 30th, unless another company decides to purchase the website.

HearJapan was started in late 2007 as an mp3 download store dedicated to spreading Japanese music around the world. Until June 30th, users will still be able to make purchases and download music. HearJapan.com




Metallica Release Rock Am Ring Footage
(hennemusic) Metallica continue to share concert footage from their 2012 European Summer Vacation tour. The band played the Rock Am Ring festival in Nurburgring, Germany on June 2.

Metallica are now sharing some footage from the event, including video of the pre-show meet and greet, tuning room and "Enter Sandman" from the concert.

The metal icons launch of their own festival – Orion Music + More – at Bader Field in Atlantic City, New Jersey on June 23 and 24

Cheap Trick Show Reveiw!

Cheap Trick
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Tulsa, Oklahoma
June 7, 2012

By Jeb Wright

Set List:
Hello There | Elo Kiddies | California Man | Clock Strikes Ten | Ain’t That a Shame | On Top of the World | Don’t Be Cruel | I Know What I Want | Need Your Love | Stop This Game | The Flame | I Want You to Want Me | Out in the Street (Theme to That 70’s Show) | Sick Man of Europe | Surrender

Encore:
Gonna Raise Hell | Drum Solo | Dream Police | Goodnight Now




After audio snippets praising Cheap Trick from Homer Simpson and Damone from Fast Times at Ridgemont High, the PA system announced, in a sexy female voice, “Please welcome the best fucking rock band you’ve ever seen…Cheap Trick!” With that, the band blasted into their famous intro, which first appeared on 1977’s In Color, titled “Hello There.” This is without a doubt the best way for a band to take the stage, as the song serves as a rockin’ introduction to the crowd and gives the sound guys a couple of minutes to make sure everything is correctly dialed in.

Next up was a great surprise, all the way from their eponymous debut, the band performed “Elo Kiddies.” This is a great song that showcases all of Cheap Trick’s uniqueness. From guitarist Rick Nielsen’s quirky suit, cap and sneakers to vocalist Robin Zander’s leather pants, red coat and bad-ass hat, Cheap Trick ekes of originality – sort of. They are their own band for sure, but when asked if Cheap Trick really wanted to be the Beatles, Rick told this writer, “Our producer Tom Werman wanted us to be the Who, but we wanted to be the Sex Pistols!” Maybe it is this combination of odd musical personalities mixed with such misspent ambition that created the bands’ sound in the first place!

Cheap Trick has never been afraid to put their spin on other’s tunes, performed this evening were several remakes, including “California Man,” originally by The Move, “Ain’t That a Shame” by Pat Boone and “Don’t Be Cruel” by Elvis Presley. It was the early Trick tunes, however, that stole the show. “Clock Strikes Ten” and “Top of the World” were unexpected treasures from Trick’s early days. Two album cuts from the classic Dream Police album were also performed. “Gonna Raise Hell” and “Need Your Love” are two of the best Cheap Trick has to offer. “Need Your Love” came across especially well, as Nielsen added some guitar muscle to the song that really took the tune over the edge. A rare performance of “Stop This Game” from 1980’s All Shook Up was also a well received treat.

“The Flame” was introduced by Nielsen who stated, “This was a number one song around the world. In fact, it was even number one in Oklahoma…so…thank you.” Other hits included “I Want You to Want Me” and “Surrender.” “Out in the Street” ended with Nielsen saying, “Hello Oklahoma” instead of the TV theme song’s home of Wisconsin.

One new song, “Sick Man of Europe” from Trick’s latest studio effort The Latest was performed proving that Cheap Trick is one of only a few classic bands whose new music stands well alongside anything from their past catalog.

Bassist Tom Petersson was given the spotlight for “I Know What I Want,” another song from Dream Police. His vocals are not quite as crisp as they once were, but he hung in there and gave it his all. The tune, itself, is a great one, as the chord changes in the verses build up to a smashing chorus, leaving only those without a soul able to sit still in the audience. Nielsen, once again, became the focal point of the song, cranking out a danceable solo.

When the band left the stage, everyone knew the evening was not over. The bass notes of “Gonna Raise Hell” thundered throughout the concert hall as Robin Zander returned to the stage with his hat off, showing off his long blonde locks. It must be noted that Zander is still on top of his game, from the shrieks of “mother” in “Gonna Raise Hell” to hitting the high note in “The Flame” this man continues to be one of the best vocalists in rock and roll.

What came next, however, had nothing to with vocals. Petersson and touring drummer Daxx Nielsen, Rick’s son, remained onstage. As the bass droned, Daxx played along. Eventually, the younger Nielsen took over and played a drum solo that had everyone on their feet. The drummer played intricate rhythms that sent the sound into the stratosphere before the rest of the band returned to the stage with the opening notes of “Dream Police.” The evening ended with the same notes it began with, only this time, “Hello There” was replaced with “Goodnight Now.” Rick Nielsen showered the crowd with guitar picks as the audience yelled out for more.

This was a special headlining show, the like of which will be rare this year as Cheap Trick is heading out on tour opening for Aerosmith in the summer of 2012. If this night in Tulsa is any indication, fans will get their moneys worth, as Trick is still, after all of these years, on top of their game.

For tour dates and all things Trick visit www.cheaptrick.com