Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Rock Tours Dominated In 2012
(hennemusic) Concert industry magazine Pollstar have released their list of the Top 50 worldwide tours for 2012.
Madonna topped the list with $296.1 million in ticket sales over 67 of 88 shows reported.

Rockers made up 20% of the list, led by Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band at #2 ($210.2 million over 66 shows), Roger Waters at #3 ($186.4 million over 48 dates), and Metallica at #8 ($86.1 million over 21 concerts). See the other rockers that made the list.




Metallica's Black Album and Ride The Lightning Score More Platinum
(hennemusic) Metallica ended 2012 with more RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) Gold and Platinum certifications for U.S. sales.

Topping December's list was the band's 1991 self-titled LP (aka. the 'Black Album') reaching its 16th platinum certificate for sales of 16 million, while "Ride The Lightning" was awarded its 6th platinum for sales of 6 million copies.

Metallica played both albums in their entirety during their inaugural Orion Music + More festival in Atlantic City in June. more on this story




Bruce Springsteen To Receive All-Star Tribute
(CBS Local) A star-studded lineup will be on hand to perform Bruce Springsteen's songs when he is presented with the 2013 Grammy MusiCares Person Of The Year Award at a ceremony taking place on Friday February 8 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

On the bill: Elton John, Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam, Jackson Browne, Patti Smith, Neil Young, gospel legend Mavis Staples, Sting, country superstars Kenny Chesney, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw and Dixie Chick Natalie Maines.

Plus Columbian rock star Juanes, R&B superstar John Legend, Best New Artist GRAMMY nominee Alabama Shakes, Emmylou Harris, Jim James of psychedelic rockers My Morning Jacket, and six-time GRAMMY nominees Mumford & Sons. more on this story




Tom Waits On The Simpsons
(hennemusic) Tom Waits will guest star but won't sing on The Simpsons this Sunday, January 6 on Fox.

Waits will reportedly play himself as someone who helps introduce Homer to a community of survivalists, according to executive producer Al Jean.

"We did a lot of research into the 'prepper' phenomenon, where people are convinced that some horrible catastrophe – like an electromagnetic pulse – is going to occur, and that people will have to survive without the grid," he says. "Homer becomes a prepper." more on this story




Steven Adler Hoping For Rock Hall Repeat With New Band
(Gibson) Drummer Steven Adler has already been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his role with Guns N' Roses, but he's hoping to do it again with his new band.

Adler, whose new band is simply called Adler, says he's gunning to see his band get inducted into the legendary Rock Hall someday.

"It was an honor to be inducted for Guns N' Roses and now the goal is to be inducted in it for the next 25 years," Adler recently told Rock Rebel Magazine. "This is my second opportunity and the goal is doing rock n' roll for people and travel all around the world and universe!" more on this story






Tommy Thayer Was On Stand-By To Replace Ace In KISS
(Classic Rock) KISS guitarist Tommy Thayer says he'd been lined up to replace Ace Frehley four years before it actually happened.

He'd even been kitted out with his own Spaceman garb in case the changeover took place while the band were touring.

"Actually, being the lead guitarist in KISS was unimaginable, but I think Paul and Gene had almost made me the heir apparent for several years before it happened. Because of the volatility in the band from 1998 on, I was literally on 'stand-by' backstage for several tours to take over on guitar if necessary.

"Behind the scenes, I had my own KISS outfit, boots and makeup kit in case of an emergency situation. By the time they asked me to be the new KISS lead guitarist over 10 years ago, the writing had been on the wall for a long while." more on this story




Aerosmith Celebrate 40th Anniversary Of Their Debut Album
(hennemusic) Aerosmith mark the 40th anniversary of their self-titled debut album on the latest installment of In The Studio.

Released in January of 1973, "Aerosmith" featured concert staples like "Mama Kin", "Walkin' The Dog", and what would become the band's signature tune, "Dream On."

In The Studio host Redbeard catches up with Steven Tyler, Joe Perry and Tom Hamilton as they reminisce about the beginnings of what would be Aerosmith.

"To say that it's a dream come true, to become famous, to have an album out, get your voice and songs on the radio, it's a real trip," says Tyler. "It really is a dream come true." more on this story




Rush Classic Transformed For TV Series
(hennemusic) Rush classic, "Working Man", has been redone as the theme for the Transporter TV series.

According to The Canadian Press, a "modernized" version of Rush's early classic, "Working Man", is being used as the intro to the new Transporter: The Series, which premieres with back-to-back episodes tonight (Thursday, January 3rd) on HBO Canada.

Fan site RushIsABand reports the new version of "Working Man" is a barely recognizable electronica arrangement from Jamie Forsyth with Danielle Armstrong on vocals. more on this story




Freddie Mercury's Rolls Royce Being Auctioned
(hennemusic) Queen fans have a chance to own a part of the band's history as the late Freddie Mercury's 1974 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow is being put up for auction.

The Rolls Royce Silver Shadow was produced in various forms from 1965 to 1980. It was the first Rolls-Royce to use a monocoque chassis, a response to concerns that the company was falling behind in automotive innovation. Aside from a more modern appearance and construction, the Silver Shadow introduced many new features such as disc rather than drum brakes, and independent rear suspension, rather than the outdated live axle design of previous cars.

This very special Rolls Royce Silver Shadow was bought by Freddie Mercury's company, Goose Productions Ltd., in the company's financial year ending 30th September 1979. A letter in the car's file directly from Jim Beach, the long-time manager of Queen and its individual members, confirms WLX 293M was bought for Freddie's use and continued to be used and owned by the company until his death in November 1991. more on this story




Kid Rock Delivers Happy New Year Surprise
(CBS Local) When it comes to wishing fans a "Happy New Year," it should come as no surprise that Kid Rock has his own style.

That is, if you can call drinking bourbon straight from the bottle while dressed in a sparkly gold suit in a VFW hall "style."

Kid Rock's new video for "Happy New Year" includes all those things, along with some impressive breakdancing and even a cameo appearance by Cindy Crawford. She looks great, of course–and as the video's director Jameson Stafford wrote on his Facebook page, "you should have seen her in person," because it "felt like everyone on set just stopped when she walked in – she just had this surreal glow." Read more and watch the video here.




The Air I Breathe Announce Farewell Tour Dates
The Air I Breathe will be embarking of a farewell tour of North American starting next month.

The tour is set to kick off on February 15 in Springfield, VA and will feature support from For All I Am and Famous Last Words as well as Sirens & Sailors (2/15-2/25), This Romantic Tragedy (2/26-3/10) and Forty Fathoms (2/27-3/10).

The band said of the trek, "We're heading out for one more tour in February! This tour is for the friends we've made along the years to see / hear 'Great Faith In Fools' live one last time and for the new fans who never got a chance to. Playing on the tour will be the members from the last couple tours and festivals. We tried to hit a bunch of areas we didn't get to hit on the Rise Tour as well as some favorites. See you next month!" more on this story




Martin Turner's Wishbone Ash Announce New Tour
(Classic Rock) Martin Turner's Wishbone Ash have revealed their touring schedule for the first half of 2013.

They'll play 25 shows in the UK beginning on February 28 and ending on June 29, including a set at the inaugural HRH Prog Festival, sponsored by Classic Rock's sister title Prog Magazine, in April.

Last September MTWA played a garden-party show to a group of invited guests, who were surprised to see former members Ted Turner, Laurie Wisefield and Steve Upton take the stage. more on this story




Rush For Tots
(hennemusic) Rockabye Baby! will release "Rockabye Baby! Lullaby Renditions Of Rush" on January 29.

"Rockabye Baby" was developed by Van Halen singer David Lee Roth's sister Lisa Roth, in conjunction with CMH Records. The series includes collections made from the songs of artists like AC/DC, Metallica, Aerosmith, Pearl Jam, The Beatles, and many others.

Rush album description: "Do you have a modern-day warrior putting up a fight at bedtime? Looking for a reliable way to put baby to sleep and not some fly-by-night sandman? Try Rockabye Baby's tender lullaby versions of Rush's hard-rock hits. This magic music will bring your baby closer to the heart of slumberland." more on this story




Jimkata Expand Die Digital 2013 Winter Tour
Jimkata have expanded their Die Digital 2013 Winter Tour with the addition of several more dates.

The group have added new shows in MO, NE, IN, MA, NH, NY, VT, PA and CT, and they will also be playing a five-night Colorado run, Snoe.down, and an Official Umphrey's McGee After-Party.

The tour kicks off on January 17th in New Haven, CT and will conclude on April 6th in Ithaca, NY. more on this story




Caravan Kick Off Tour Next Week
Caravan will be kicking off their 10-date UK tour next Tuesday January 8th at London's Queen Elizabeth Hall with support from Garron Frith.

The tour marks the 40th Anniversary of their album, For Girls Who Grow Plump In The Night. The band will also perform songs from their other classic albums, including In The Land Of Grey And Pink.

The current line-up features Pye Hastings (1968 founding member: guitar, lead vocals), Geoffrey Richardson (viola, guitar, flute, vocals), Jan Schelhaas (keyboards), Jim Leverton (bass, vocals) and Mark Walker (drums, percussion). more on this story




Yellowcard Announce Live TV Broadcast
AXS TV will broadcast Yellowcard's concert at The Paramount Theater in Huntington, New York live on Saturday January 12th.

"We have some pretty cool news to share," said Ryan Key, lead singer of Yellowcard. "On January 12th we are playing The Paramount Theater in Huntington, NY. A lot of you have been asking us for something live for as long as I can remember. Well hopefully this will do!

"AXS TV, one of the premier networks for live concerts and events in the U.S. will be broadcasting the entire show, 100% live on January 12th. Make sure to check your listings to see where you can watch. Thanks!" more on this story




Down and Warbeast Tour Dedicated To Mike Scaccia
Warbeast are dedicating their upcoming tour with Down to the memory of late Rigor Mortis and Ministry guitarist Mike Scaccia.

Warbeast frontman Bruce Corbitt had this to say, "Mike Scaccia left this Earth doing what he loved to do. Tragically, the music world has lost an extremely talented, gifted and unique guitar virtuoso. His music and his legend will live on forever. But a loving husband, father, son and brother etc. can never be replaced.

"Mike would be overwhelmed with this outpouring of emotion that has risen from his passing, but he would mainly be proud of the enormous support that everyone has shown towards his family during this devastating time in their lives. more on this story




Eyehategod, Neurosis, Nachtmystium, Yakuza Supergroup Set To Tour
Mike IX Williams (Eyehategod), Scott Kelly (Neurosis), Sanford Parker (Nachtmystium) and Bruce Lamont (Yakuza) have teamed up to form the new musical collective, Corrections House, and they will be launching a tour later this month.

The 19-date tour is set to kick off January 21, 2013 in Brooklyn, New York and will conclude on February 15th in Denver, Colorado.

The trek will feature special solo sets by Parker, Lamont, Kelly and Williams and they will close out each performance together as Corrections House. more on this story




Hot Water Music Release Drag My Body Video
Hot Water Music have released a new music video for their latest single "Drag My Body."

The video was directed by Josh Hegard and shot in Silverlake, California, and is the second video and from Exister, the band's first album since 2004. You can watch it here.

Hot Water Music will be kicking off their North American headline tour in Tampa on January 16 with support from La Dispute and The Menzingers. more on this story



Spinal Tap Hit Too Close To Home For Aerosmith's Steven Tyler
(Gibson) Rolling Stone reports that former record industry executive Joe Smith has donated a large amount of interviews he has done with famous musicians to the Library of Congress. The interviews were conducted some time in the mid'80s.

One of the interviews is with Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler, who talks candidly about his hard partying days in the'70s: "I can remember the height of my oblivion, I was into doing things just because I could. I would think nothing of tipping a whole long spread, and I'd be so livid – explicit – no turkey roll! Give us a turkey – no gravy, no stuffing, just real meat. No hockey pucks, no mystery meat, just a turkey."

Does that perhaps sound a bit like Nigel Tufnel, the over the top character from the rock mockumentary This is Spinal Tap? Well, apparently Tyler thought that the movie hit a little too close to home, as he reveal in the interview with Joe Smith: "That movie bummed me out, because I thought, 'How dare they? That's all real, and they're mocking it.'"

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Jack White Tops The Beatles
(hennemusic) Jack White's solo debut album, "Blunderbuss", has been named the biggest selling vinyl album of 2012.
The project sold more than 33,000 copies, according to Nielsen Soundscan's vinyl charts.

Knocking the Beatles' "Abbey Road" off the top spot - a position it had held the previous three years - "Blunderbuss" sales are the highest for a new album (not a catalog album) since Soundscan began specifically tracking vinyl in 2008. more on this story



Ozzy Osbourne Airport Idea Grounded
(hennemusic) Reports that Birmingham Airport could be renamed after Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne have been played down by the airport, according to TravelMole.

Last week, the Birmingham Mail reported that a name change was being considered, following in the footsteps of other airports such as Liverpool John Lennon Airport and John F. Kennedy Airport in New York.

Birmingham Airport confirmed that it would be a decision for the airport itself, with a spokesman adding: "We've no plans to rename the airport so not quite sure where the story's come from but we're certainly not in discussions." more on this story




Guns N' Roses Guitarist Offers Ironic Advise To Rock Hopefuls
(Gibson) Guns N' Roses guitarist Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal has some simple advice for players trying to break into the music business: be on time.

In an interview with Metal Hammer, the Guns N' Roses six-stringer said punctuality, preparedness and a sense of calm go a long way toward making a musician indispensable. "By 'on time' I mean 'be early,'" he said. "Make sure you're there for when you need to be — wait in your car, communicate, let them know ten minutes early that you'll be there in five minutes, and walk in five minutes later."

Thal added that by being prepared he means "knowing more than you need to." "If you're going to lay down guitar parts," he advised, "know the drum grooves and where all the accents and up-beats and fills and breaks are. Know the bass lines. When the bassist doesn't show and they freak out, you [can] say, 'I know the bass part. I can lay it down.'"

Thal went on to stress the importance of "being a soothing presence in the room." "When everyone is contagiously breaking into panic and stress mode, you'll be their voice of reason without even trying," he said. more on this story






God Forbid Plan Hurricane Sandy Relief Concert
God Forbid announced that they will be taking part in a Hurricane Sandy relief concert on January 11th.

The concert will be taking place at The Boneyard in Atlantic City and is part of the Revive The Shore Part III concert series.

New Jersey natives God Forbid were personally affected by the storm which made landfall on October 29th and affected millions and destroyed thousands of homes, businesses and communities in its path.

God Forbid frontman Byron Davis had this to day, "We would like to wish everyone a belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. With that being said we should take this time and reflect on how tragedy can turn ones world upside down; we need to be grateful for the ones we have in our lives and remember those who have lost everything."

"This benefit show gives us the opportunity to let our fellow New Jerseyians know that we have not forgotten them and will honor their struggles with pride. For one night, we will all come together for remembrance and fun to raise contributions that will help re-build communities and people's spirits that were affected around the Jersey Shore. We are looking forward to seeing New Jersey stand together united. See you there!"




Eddie Vedder Says Pearl Jam Are 'Halfway There' On New Album
(hennemusic) Pearl Jam have been working on new music, on and off, over the past year or so and have purposely not set a timetable for a new album, as the band members continue to work on solo projects and tours.

Now, in a new interview with Rolling Stone - centered around his involvement with the West Memphis Three – frontman Eddie Vedder was asked for an update on Pearl Jam's latest recording project.

"Um, maybe halfway there," explains Vedder. "We're taking our time. I was talking to Jeff [Ament] today, we were texting, he's got his group up there. He's heading to the West Coast, I'm heading east. And we're out here like, you know, like Johnny Appleseed. He's covering part of the country. I'm doing the other. And at some point we'll join forces again for sure, but the band is as healthy as ever and I'm sure it's good to get a little break from each other, but it's nice to – we'll be ready to go when we're ready to go."

As for a "sound" or direction to the tracks completed so far. Find out what he had to say here.



Dave Grohl Plans Sundance Jam
(hennemusic) Dave Grohl's directorial debut, "Sound City," will premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 18 before its theatrical release next month.

The documentary chronicles the story of the Van Nuys, California studio of the same name, where music legends recorded major projects throughout the years – including Nirvana's 1991 smash, "Nevermind," which featured Grohl on drums.

Now, the rocker has announced that he's bringing a collection of musicians, billed as the Sound City Players, to Sundance for a concert at Park City Live on the night of the premiere.

There's no word who will join the head Foo Fighter on stage, but there's a serious collection of players in the film who may be a part of the performance. more on this story




The Wildhearts Plan 20th Anniversary Tour
(Classic Rock) The Wildhearts will play a short UK tour in April to celebrate 20 years since the release of debut album Earth Vs The Wildhearts.

They'll appear in Glasgow, Manchester, Nottingham and Wolverhampton where they'll perform the 1993 record in full.

Mainman Ginger is joined by guitarist CJ, drummer Ritch Battersby and bassist Random Jon Poole for the shows. more on this story




Allman Brothers Band Lineup More Live Performances
The Allman Brothers Band have announced two more big appearances this year apart from their annual Beacon Theatre run.

Eric Clapton has invited them to perform at his annual "Crossroads" benefit concert which will be staged on April 12-13 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

They will also headline two nights at their very own Wanee Festival that will take place in Live Oak, FL on April 19- 20. more on this story




High On Fire Added To Metal Alliance Tour
High On Fire have been added to the lineup for this year's Metal Alliance Tour of North American.

The tour will be headlined by Anthrax who will be performing their 1987 album "Among The Living" in its entirety.

The trek kicks off on March 23rd in Las Vegas and will also feature Exodus, Municipal Waste and Holy Grail. more on this story




Murderdolls' Eric Griffin Returns With Synical
Murderdolls' Eric Griffin's new group Synical have released their debut album, "Quit While You're Behind," via Deadlight Entertainment.

The group features record producer Brian Haught(L7) and Griffin who is also a former member of Wednesday13, Genitorturers and a current member of Davey Suicide.

The album features guest appearances by Roy Mayorga (Stone Sour, ex Soulfly), Alex Carapetis (NIN, Julian Casablancas), and Raccy Shay (Murderdolls).




Anthrax Guitarist Scott Ian Plans Spoken Word Tour
(Gibson) Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian will follow in the footsteps of fellow heavy music icon Henry Rollins by hitting the road for a spoken word tour later this year, on the heels of a successful one-off date in 2012.

Ian will perform at 16 dates in the UK in May and June for Metal Hammer magazine. "I've seen Rollins do it all these years," Ian explained to Decibel magazine. "I saw Rollins, maybe on the first time he ever did a tour I went to see what it was going to be about …it's something that I always wanted to do and I finally had the opportunity this year."

Ian said the first show, in London, went so well that he jumped at the chance to do more. "Y'know it's weird, I know a lot of people are terrified but I don't find public speaking terrifying for some crazy reason. Maybe there is something wrong with me!" more on this story






Cinderella Frontman Tom Keifer Launching Solo Tour
Cinderella frontman Tom Keifer will be launching his very first solo tour in North America next month.

The trek is set to kick off on February 9th in Winston-Salem, NC and the announced dates conclude on February 28th in White Marsh, MD.

The tour will be in support of Keifer's debut solo album, which is expected to be released by Merovee Records this spring. more on this story




David Bowie Helped Revive Peter Frampton
(Gibson) Peter Frampton's career hit the doldrums in the wake of Frampton Comes Alive!, the monumental album that made his a star. In a just-published interview with M – Music & Musicians, Frampton thanks David Bowie for helping him get back on track.

"The '80s were a difficult period for me," Frampton says. "[That continued] until my dear friend David Bowie got me out on the road for the Glass Spider tour and on his Never Let Me Down record, and reintroduced me as a guitar player around the world. I can never thank him enough for believing in me, and seeing past the image of the satin pants and big hair to the guitar player he first met when we played together in school. I enjoyed touring with David so much I just wanted to go back out and play, because I hadn't really played out that much in the '80s."

Frampton later added that he's continuing to write new music for the Cincinnati Ballet, with whom he teamed up for a production to be staged in April. more on this story






Hawthorne Heights Launch Skeleton Club With 4 Free Songs
Hawthorne Heights are giving fans four free song downloads when they join the group's new "Skeleton Club."

The free club membership is setup to give fans access to pre-orders, merchandise, VIP packages, tickets and more. The free songs will only be available for a limited time.

Fans that wish to join can visit the group's Facebook page, click on the "Free Music" tab and enter their email address for access.

Hawthorne Heights will return to the Warped Tour this summer for the first time in six years, where they will join Woe Is Me, I See Stars, Go Radio, The Story So Far, Like Moths To Flames, Big Chocolate, Stick To Your Guns, Hands Like Houses, Anarbor, letlive, The Black Dahlia Murder and more. more on this story




Ramming Speed and Sexcrement Launching 2013 New Years Bangover
Ramming Speed and Sexcrement are teaming up to launch a mini-tour dubbed the "2013 New Years Bangover".

The tour will kick off on January 9th in Providence, RI and will make stops in Boston, New Brunswick, Philadelphia and conclude in New York.

The five dates trek will be undertaken "to celebrate the oncoming twelve months of cheap whiskey and pounding headaches," according to the announcement. more on this story




Love & Death and Thousand Foot Crutch Plan War Of Change Tour
Former Korn guitarist Brian "Head" Welch's new group Love & Death will be hitting the road with Thousand Foot Crutch for the War Of Change Tour.

The trek will kick off on February 21st in Columbia, MD and will also feature The Letter Black and The Wedding.

Love & Death will be touring in support of their debut album, "Between Here & Lost," which will be released on January 22nd by Tooth & Nail Records. more on this story




Darsombra Announce Wintour 2013
Darsombra will be hitting the road next month to launch their Wintour 2013 of the Southern United States.

The tour is set to kick off on February 15th in Richmond, VA and will make stops in North Carolina, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas and Tennessee.

Darsombra will be touring in support of their latest album, Climax Community LP. more on this story




Atreyu's Brandon Saller Releasing Hell Or Highwater Debut
Hell Or Highwater, featuring Atreyu's Brandon Saller, have set a February 5th release date for their debut album "Begin Again."

Ahead of the album release, Hell or Higwater will be hitting the road with The Darkness for their North American tour on January 10, 2013.

Saller had this to say, "We are exited to announce that we have partnered with the Chicago based record label, Pavement Music for the release of our debut album 'Begin Again'. 2013 promises to be a big year for Hell or Highwater. We're excited to be a part of the Pavement Music family." more on this story




Lars Chriss Mixing Covered Call's New Album
Covered Call have recruited producer/engineer Lars Chriss (Lion's Share) to mix their new studio CD, Impact.

The new album will mark the recording debut of their new singer Göran Edman (Yngwie Malmsteen, John Norum, Madison), and new bass player Andy Loos (Lion's Share, Glory).

"To hear Göran belt out the vocals made me shiver. It was exactly what I pictured the songs like," says founding member and drummer Ronny Svanströmer. more on this story




Paul Leavitt Producing The Persevering Promise Album
The Persevering Promise are planning to release their Pavement Entertainment debut this summer.

The group will begin recording the album in April at the Valencia Studios in Baltimore, MD.

They have recruited Paul Leavitt (Darkest Hour, All Time Low, Dead To Fall) to record and produce the effort.





Motorhead Preview New Headphones With Promo Video
(hennemusic) Motorhead will unveil the official U.S. launch of Motorheadphones at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas on Tuesday, January 8th at 4pm (CES – South Hall – Booth $35801).

The band has offered up a new video featuring drummer Mikkey Dee promoting the CES appearance, which will see Lemmy Kilmister will host an exclusive press conference to introduce the new product.

Motörheadphönes has had unprecedented success throughout Europe prior to making their US debut. The new product features professional audio quality, tooled to reproduce rock music or any played music. Motörheadphönes give smooth warm bass, bombastic drums and clear mid-range plus distinct high-end because of the 40mm neodymium high power speakers that takes 6-10 times more power than a standard headphone. Read more and watch the video here.




Fullforce Release Video Awesomeness
Fullforce has released a new music video for their song "Awesomeness" on YouTube.

The "Awesomeness" video was filmed and edited by Stefan Elmgren and you can watch it here.

The band had this New Year message for fans, "2012 was a great year for Fullforce. We have recorded and released our second album (Next Level) brought to you by pure inspiration and love for metal. The feedback has been great both from you and also media and we're looking forward to see you on the road in 2013!!"




Jack Osbourne Posts Photo of Ozzy With Granddaughter
(hennemusic) Ozzy Osbourne can be seen spending some quality time with his granddaughter, Pearl, in a new image posted by proud parent Jack Osbourne.

Jack tweeted a photo on New Year's Day, writing, "Pearl making her granddad laugh!"

Jack and wife Lisa Stelly welcomed Pearl on April 24, 2012. Pearl is Ozzy's fifth grandchild – he has two each from daughter Jessica and son Louis from his previous marriage to Thelma Riley – and Sharon's first.

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Lostprophets Singer To Remain In Jail On Child Sex Charges
Lostprophets frontman Ian Watkins and his two female co-defendants have been ordered to remain in custody until March 11th facing charges for child sexual offenses.
Watkins appeared before Cardiff Crown Court via a video link from Parc Prison in Bridgend, Wales on New Year's Eve according to Classic Rock.

As we previously reported, Watkins has been charged with conspiring with a woman to rape a one-year-old child and other crimes.

He faces one charge of conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child under 13 and four child pornography related charges.

A 24-year-old woman faces the same charges as Watkins and a 20-year-old woman faces all the charges except conspiracy to rape. Read the original report here.



Green Day Announce Rescheduled North American Tour
Green Day have announced the new dates for their previously postponed North American winter tour.

The band was forced to postpone their original planned trek after frontman Billie Joe Armstrong entered rehab.

The newly announced dates will begin on March 28th in Chicago and conclude April 12th - Quebec City, QC

"We want to thank everyone for hanging in with us for the last few months," said the members of Green Day. "We are very excited to hit the road and see all of you again, though we regret having to cancel more shows."

Frontman Billie Joe Armstrong said, "Dear friends... I just want to thank you all for the love and support you've shown for the past few months. Believe me, it hasn't gone unnoticed and I'm eternally grateful to have such an amazing set of friends and family. I'm getting better everyday. So now, without further ado, the show must go on. We can't wait to get on the road and live out load! Our passion has only grown stronger." more on this story




Whitesnake Star Breaks His Collarbone
Whitesnake drummer Brian Tichy was unable to take part in a Led Zeppelin tribute show on New Year's Eve after he suffered a broken collarbone in a mountain biking accident.

Quiet Riot drummer Frankie Banali was tapped to take his place in the all-star tribute event in Las Vegas.

Tichy broke the news to fans via a series of Twitter postings: "Typin with yor arm in a sling after u get back from er after wipin on your mtn. bike n breakin yor collarbone jus sux."

"So much for playing drums new year's in vegas with The Moby Dicks. Thanks to our bud Frankie Banali for helpin us out!"

"My year will b all uphill from here. I'll be c-in my healer wizard Dr. morovati tomoro and get this bs out the way asap."

"There's an angel on my shoulder…. But damn she's f-in heavy!!!!!"






Shinedown Members Plan Unplugged Show
Two members of Shinedown will be unplugging for the 2013 Hometown Throwdown in Memphis, TN later this month.

Vocalist Brent Smith and guitarist Zach Myers are scheduled to play an all-acoustic set on January 12th during the event at the New Daisy Theater.

Fans across North American will be able to see the full band live beginning on February 1st when they launch a tour with Three Days Grace and P.O.D. more on this story




Deep Purple Taking New Direction On New Album
(hennemusic) Deep Purple recently confirmed their 19th studio album in the U.S. will be released on April 30, 2013 (April 26 outside of North America).

In a new interview with 100% Rock magazine, frontman Ian Gillan shared an update on Purple's first album since 2005's "Rapture Of The Deep."

"It's being mixed as we speak," says Gillan. "We've finished recording. It's a new tone, it's a new direction, it's fresh stuff. I think it was all written and recorded in Nashville, and the reason we went there – not to make a country record, but because Bob Ezrin, our producer, lives in Nashville and so it made a lot of sense because he had all the studio facilities and back up and everything else. So it made it really easy."

"It was a great environment to record in and yeah, there's a bit of diversity on the record," the singer continues. "There's some sort of… defining music is just so hard; it's just really… it's hard to define." more on this story




Dillinger Escape Plan Nearly Done Recording New Album
The Dillinger Escape Plan are nearing completion of their new studio album and it appears they have hinted at a tour in support of its release.

The band has been keeping fans informed via a series of postings on Facebook. On December 19th they told fans: "While others celebrate the holidays....we are working on this new album. When others ring in the new year....we will be working on this new album. When we release this new album....others will be working to catch up. Thanks everyone for being onboard for however long you've been onboard....the next leg of the journey is about to be underway."

The day after Christmas the band announced: "Only a couple weeks of recording to go and our new album will be finished. We're keeping our blistering pace of once every three years."

And finally on Monday they posted: "Happy New Years everyone. This year the Dillinger Bomb will surely drop on a city near you."

Could that be a hint of an upcoming tour?



Allman Brothers Band Announce 2013 Beacon Shows
(hennemusic) The Allman Brothers Band have announced the details for the 2013 installment of their annual Beacon Theatre residency.

The band will return to New York's Beacon Theatre in March for a ten show run from March 1 through 16.

The tradition of annual Spring shows started in 1989 and has become a popular musical event attracting fans from around the world. more on this story




Thin Lizzy's Scott Gorham Explains New Name, New Lineup And More
(Gibson) Thin Lizzy's Scott Gorham recently talked to Gibson.com about the legendary band's final U.K. tour. Although Thin Lizzy as a band and brand will continue for a while, Gorham is prepping a new three-guitar group.

What can you say about the new band? Firstly, Brian Downey [drums, and the sole original Thin Lizzy member in the current line-up - Editor] only wanted to play under the Thin Lizzy name. And that's fine, I totally respect that. So we have a new drummer, Jimmy DeGrasso [Megadeth, Alice Cooper, Dokken] for the new band.

The new band is me, Damon Johnson (guitar), Ricky Warwick (vocals/guitar), Marco Mendoza (bass) and Jimmy DeGrasso (drums). Brian Downey is a little tired of the road. And Darren (Wharton, keyboards) has a movie soundtrack he wants to complete, and other stuff with his own band, Dare.

Does the new band have a name? We are Black Star Riders. The plan is, we fly to L.A. second of January to start work on the album. But this is not the end of Thin Lizzy. In March 2013 we fly out to Australia to do the KISS tour as Thin Lizzy. But then, we go into rehearsal as Black Star Riders, finish the album, and we will then tour as Black Star Riders.

The producer is Kevin Shirley [Aerosmith, Joe Bonamassa, Iron Maiden] at his studio in Los Angeles. We have 17 songs, the scratchings of another three. And knowing Ricky and Damon, those three will get finished soon. So there's 20 songs to pick from.

Will Black Star Riders sound very different to Thin Lizzy? It's tough to say how the new band will eventually sound. The songs are mostly in demo format, right now. So we need to electrify it, get Kevin Shirley's input. But the harmony guitars, the twin solos — it's all there, believe me! Read the rest of the interview here.






Helloween Guitarist Wants To Revolve Issues With Former Singer
(Classic Rock) Helloween guitarist Michael Weikath wants to resolve the issues between him and former singer Michael Kiske – with a view to potentially working together again in the future.

The vocalist left the band in 1993 and Weikath believes Kiske remains upset with him, so he'd like to talk things through.

"If you read the interviews he still says he has a problem with me – so that has to be sorted," He tells Powerline. "If you ever want to do some reunion activities, in the form of public appearances with ex-members, or recordings with particular tracks, you first have to sort things out." Read more of what he had to say here.




Queensryche Give Words Of Support For Randy Gane After Heart Attack
(Classic Rock) The version of Queensryche fronted by Todd La Torre has sent a message of support to Randy Gane of Geoff Tate's Queensryche lineup after the keyboardist suffered a heart attack last week.

Gane had worked with the original band in the past before following singer Tate after his sacking. The statement says: "We in Queensryche want to send our thoughts and prayers out to our old friend Randy Gane in light of the heart attack he suffered the other night.

"He will always be a part of the extended Queensryche family and we want to wish him a speedy recovery. We ask all our fans to keep him and his family in your thoughts as we celebrate this holiday season. Look forward to a happy, healthy and musical 2013. more rock news.




Rush, Rival Sons and ZZ Top Releases Named Top Albums of 2012
(Classic Rock) Classic Rock announced their Top 40 albums selections for 2012 with relative newcomers Rival Sons just missing the top spot. Here are the Top 3:

3. ZZ Top: La Futura: After a lean period lasting longer than most bands' entire careers, ZZ Top hooked up with producer Rick Rubin to cut their best album since 1983's Eliminator. La Futura delivered soulful blues and high-octane boogie as only these good ol' boys know how.

2. Rival Sons: Head Down: Anyone still doubting the relevance of classic guitar music in 2012 needed to look no further than this storming Californian four- piece. Head Down was unreconstructed rock'n'roll in the raw, borne aloft by euphoric Motown grooves and the kind of timeless riffs patented by John Fogerty circa Green River.

1. Rush: Clockwork Angels: In a year that has a special resonance for Rush, promoters offered big money for a tour based on the band's landmark 70s album 2112. But rather than trade on the past, Rush moved forward with their most ambitious project to date: a first full concept album, and a genuine late-career masterpiece. See who else made the list here.




The Absence Lose A Member
The Absence announced on New Year's Day that they have split with guitarist Peter Joseph.

The group issued the following statement: "As most of our friends and fans know the last year has brought The Absence some ups-and-downs, and most of us have emerged a much stronger and dedicated group at the end of it all.

"We owe as much to our fans who have always offered us amazing amounts of support and we are genuinely excited about what is coming next. We have done a lot of work to get ourselves to the point where we are able to begin delivering new music, merchandise, and even a killer new live show, but the work that is left to do must be done quickly and will require unquestionable reliability, dedication, input, and above all else a mutual sense that we are in this together.

"At this time we are sad to say that The Absence will be parting ways with guitarist Peter Joseph. We will not be announcing a replacement at this time; we will have more information as things progress and we are able to sort everything out over the coming weeks. more on this story




Amon Amarth Ready To Begin Recording New Album
Amon Amarth have started the new year with news that they have completed writing the songs for their next album.

The band also confirmed that they will be taking part in the Nummirock Festival 2013 which will take place 20-22 of June 2013, on Nummijärvi in Kauhajoki, Finland.

The group broke the new album news with their New Year's greeting: "We want to thank everyone that has supported and helped us in 2012," they wrote. "2013 will be another intense year for Amon Amarth, and looks like it will be slightly unpredictable and mischievous…"

"We've just finished writing all the songs for the next full-length album, and we're ready to enter the studio to start recording them in the new year.

"Wishing everyone a fun and successful 2013!"




Robert Downey, Jr. Helps Black Sabbath Score A No. 1
(hennemusic) Black Sabbath have a UK no. 1 on their hands. UK retailer HMV has compiled a list of its best-selling classic rock shirts, with Sabbath coming in at number one, while Led Zeppelin take the second and third spots, reports Belfast Telegraph.

Sabbath's US tour shirt from 1978 landed at #1 following a sales surge after it was worn by Robert Downey, Jr. - who plays Iron Man's alter ego Tony Stark - in the hit movie "Avengers Assemble".

"More often than not, rock T-shirts used to be something you'd wear to gigs to see your favourite bands, but over time demand has broadened and they've since become a bit of a fashion-statement in their own right," said HMV's Gennaro Castaldo. "Some performers can quickly come and go with the trends, but one genre that has an enduring appeal and seems to remain eternally popular with fans is classic rock and metal." more on this story




Leng Tch'e Plan New Album and Tour
Leng Tch'e poked fun at the end of the world Mayan calendar predictions on December 21st while also breaking some big news for fans: they are planning their next album and tour. Here is what they had to say:

They told fans via Facebook on Dec. 21st: "Well apart from a bunch of New Age authors laughing all the way to the bank, the world is still the same as yesterday. A beautiful place occasionally ruined by a**holes. But that doesn't mean 2012 wasn't a great year for us! We started off by joining Origin and Psycroptic for the most brutal tour of the year, followed by a succesful summer festival season. Serge still doesn't remember half of what happened at Obscene Extreme Festival.

"This year also marks the 10th anniversary of our debut album "Death by a Thousand Cuts". Yes we are getting old. And yes, it's still sold out.

"But that's not all, we're nearly finished with the songwriting of our next album! Preproduction will start in february and hopefully we can finish our next masterpiece of brutally grooving grindcore by summertime. Which means we'll bring this retarded circus back on the road in late 2013. In the meantime, check out our tour diary from this year..." Watch it here.




Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page Ends Year With Celebration Day Reflection
(hennemusic) Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page has started 2013 by issuing his look back at activities from 2012:

"Hi y'all. Well 2012 is nearly at a close... and what a year it's been for JP. The eagerly awaited London O2 concert was released on what could be described as a 'celebration day' - some five years after the event."

"Celebration Day" was launched with a worldwide theatrical release on 1,500 screens in over 40 territories on October 17; more screenings were scheduled due to fan demand. more on this story




Your Chance To Die Begin New Album
Your Chance To Die have begun working on their third full-length album which they plan to release this year.

Vocalist Missi Avila offered these comments about the effort, "Most of the info on the new album is top secret, but what we can say is it will be released in the first half of 2013. It will be our third full length record, the second with Red Cord Records.

"The new album will be different than anything we have put out in the past, more technical and darkly ambient. It shows our growth and maturity as a band and is something we are all extremely proud of and excited to release. more on this story





Singled Out: IAMDYNAMITE
Today Chris Phillips from IAMDYNAMITE's from tells us about their new single "Where Will We Go," which comes from their debut album "Supermegafantastic". Here is the story:

Where Will We Go was written as a completely different song originally. For awhile we called it DBC because it was Parts "D", "B", then "C", neither of us have any recollection of what part "A" was. We thought it was a straight forward beat and we had cranked up the speed to make it a more driving song.

It has been a fun song to have created and we are proud to share it with everyone. Spoiler alert!! It's usually our opening song so do be late to shows!

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




Rolling Stones, Black Sabbath, Van Halen Named Artists To Watch in 2013
(hennemusic) The calendar has flipped into the New Year, and hennemusic has a look at the rock forecast for 2013.

01 - Rolling Stones: The Stones teased fans with a 5-date fall tour and there is plenty more where that came from. The band will tour in 2013 as they continue to mark their 50th anniversary; an April headlining date at Coachella was recently "leaked" by the group.

02 - Black Sabbath: The metal legends hit a few roadblocks in 2012: guitarist Tony Iommi was diagnosed with cancer and underwent chemotherapy; a full tour schedule was reduced to three shows following Iommi's news and treatment; and, a contract dispute prevented drummer Bill Ward from rejoining his bandmates for live dates and the creation of new music. Sabbath are moving forward, nonetheless: a new album, produced by Rick Rubin, is scheduled for April, and the band begins touring with shows down under that same month.

03 - Van Halen: Another band that hit a major roadblock in 2012, with guitarist Eddie Van Halen undergoing surgery for a severe bout of Diverticulitis, an event that put the band on the sidelines for the last 6 months of the year. VH will return to live action in 2013, with a series of rescheduled Japanese dates set for June. Beyond that, bassist Wolfgang VH will tour with Alter Bridge/Creed guitarist Mark Tremonti's solo band throughout February but, other than that, nothing else has been revealed about VH's plans for the year. See the rest of the Top 10 here.




Suffocation Preview New Album With Trailer
Nuclear Blast have posted a new Youtube video trailer for Suffocation's forthcoming studio album.

The new album is entitled "Pinnacle of Bedlam," and is set to be released on February 19th.

The trailer contains scenes from a bonus DVD which documents the making of the album. You can watch it here.





Provoke, Destroy Release First Song With New Singer
Provoke, Destroy has released a new lyrics video of their new single, "Hourglass," which has been released on iTunes.

The track is the first song released by the group featuring their new vocalist Mason Ewbank. You can watch the lyric video here.

The single was recorded by Andrew Baylis (Honour Crest, Camisado) and follows the June release of the band's second EP Rosewell.

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Expect A New U2 Record Says Manager
(Gibson) Will 2013 be the year U2 release their follow-up to 2009's "No Line on the Horizon?" Maybe, if you believe longtime U2 manager Paul McGuinness.
When asked about the status of a new U2 album during an interview with The Independent, McGuinness stated, "There's always activity, so certainly expect a new record." Sounds promising.

In other U2 news, for the fourth consecutive year, U2 frontman Bono and some of his famous friends walked the streets of Dublin, Ireland, on Christmas Eve, singing festive songs while collecting donations for charity. more on this story






Geoff Tate's Band Member Suffers Heart Attack
Randy Gane, the keyboard player in Geoff Tate's version of Queensryche suffered a heart attack last Wednesday (Dec. 26).

Tate informed fans with the following Facebook posting, "Please send your prayers and positive thoughts to my good friend and keyboard player; Randy Gane who is currently recovering from suffering a heart attack last night – GT."

Tate's version of Queensryche also features Rudy Sarzo (Ozzy Osbourne, Quiet Riot), Bobby Blotzer (Ratt), former Queensryche guitarist Kelly Gray along with Gane (Candlebox).






Rolling Stones and Beatles Considered For British Currency
(Gibson) The Bank of England have revealed that the Rolling Stones are among a handful of notable Brits that are being considered for a new £10 bill.

The Beatles are also up for consideration, along with David Beckham, and Winston Churchill. The new bill is meant to replace the current one featuring Charles Darwin.

The Stones were criticized for charging outrageous ticket prices during their recent 50th anniversary tour, with some seats going for as much as $800. If Jagger and Co. get picked for the new bill, the next time the Stones tour you might literally be paying for the tickets with the band's own money. There seems to be a possibility of more Stones dates in the future judging by comments made by former Stones guitarist Mick Taylor, who was one of the guests on the anniversary tour. Guitarist Ronnie Wood, who got married this past weekend told the Telegraph that the band will never retire: "I think of Howlin' Wolf plugging in to his kidney machine, however old he was, 80 or something, and still playing. You just rock till you drop." more on this story





Daughtry Donating Song Proceeds To Sandy Hook Shootings Families
(Gibson) Rocker Chris Daughtry is donating the proceeds of the sales from one of his band's latest songs to the families of the Newtown, Conn., school shooting victims.

The emotional track, called "Gone Too Soon," arrived on Daughtry's latest album, Break the Spell. As Daughtry explains in a video clip, the track was "originally was written about someone losing a child before he or she is born, and we've gotten so many amazing comments from people from everywhere about how it's helped them through similar situations. And I just felt very strongly that this song could be used to help benefit the families."

Fans may purchase the songs via Monkeybars.net/Daughtry. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the sale of the songs will go towards the Connecticut School Shooting Victims Fund, which was established by fellow pop-rockers OneRepublic. Fans may also make additional donations via the site. So far, the fund has raised $100,000.

"I feel so blessed that I can be a part of bringing some sort of relief to the families right now, and I hope that you'll join me," Daughtry added. more on this story






Corner Confirms Mike Scaccia Cause of Death
(Gibson) A medical examiner has determined that guitarist Mike Scaccia died of a sudden heart attack. As reported previously, the beloved guitarist, who played with the bands Ministry and Rigor Mortis, died after collapsing onstage during a performance celebrating Rigor Mortis frontman Bruce Corbitt's 50th birthday.

This past Thursday, on his Facebook page, Corbitt posted a touching remembrance of his time with Scaccia. "You know I keep thinking about all of this," Corbitt wrote. "Why this happened the way it did. Why it happened at all. What if I wouldn't have asked them to play for my birthday show? But mainly, I keep thinking of the conversations I had with Mike in recent years. Each close friendship is different... you cherish them all. I talked about things with Mike that I couldn't with some other close friends.

"So what I do know is how happy Mike was at this point in his life," Corbitt added. "He loved his wife and kids so much. He talked about them all the time. He loved his bandmates from his different bands. He loved his friends... past and present. He loved his job working for Gibson Guitars. So that gives me some kind of comfort just knowing he was enjoying his time on earth until the very end." more on this story






Nightvision's Dean Hocking Killed In Car Accident
Nightvision bassist Dean Hocking was killed in a car accident last Thursday morning (December 27th) in England.

The band issued the following via Facebook: "There is nothing we can say that hasn't been said already other than to confirm the devastating and crushing loss of our incredible bass player, Dean Hocking, tragically taken from us as a passenger in a road accident during the early hours. Needless to say he was an incredible bass player — one of the best — and an incredible bloke.

"We obviously need the time to get this round our heads but in the meantime … wherever you are … get a drink and raise it high as a toast to a fine, young, talented guy gone too soon. Turn it up to 11 and rumble the heavens our brother. We love you dude and we are gonna miss you like you'll never know. — Daryl, Dave and Bolda. X." more on this story




Pink Floyd Star Helps Save Music Shop
(Gibson) Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason has stepped in to help save Foote's music store in London. Mason bought his first drum kit from the store. The drum shop was going to be forced to close when they were denied a business loan.

Says Mason to mi-pro.co.uk: "After 40 something years of playing, I still have great affection for a real drum shop. And Foote's has a special significance for me. In 1958, I headed down to the West End of London to a basement in Denman Street where a kindly man called Sid, in a white coat (maybe that's significant as well) sold me my original kit for £7.50."

Nick is buying the shop along with Rob Wilson, who has been the sales-director for Foote's for a long time. Wilson also commented on Mason's help: "At the eleventh hour, our business loan was turned down by our bank... It was a major blow to our plans, but Nick came to our rescue. Without him, and our collective of generous investors, Foote's would be no more." more on this story





Why Def Leppard Are Going Vegas
(hennemusic) Def Leppard will host their first-ever Las Vegas residency in the spring of 2013. The band will be taking over the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino for an exclusive nine-show run entitled "VIVA Hysteria!", and will perform their iconic album, "Hysteria," in full, in addition to a greatest hits segment.

The shows will run from March 22 through April 10, 2013 at the Hard Rock Casino's venue The Joint.

In a new interview with Vegas.com, Leppard guitarist Phil Collen was asked what prompted the group to do the Vegas residency.

"A lot of other bands do this stuff, but I think it's a little bit more special because 'Hysteria' was one of the diamond albums, especially in this day and age there are not that many albums that achieve that kind of status," said Collen. "That's why it's so important to us, it's such a big selling album. It's a challenge as well. We've never actually done that before. We've always said, yeah, we could do 'High 'n' Dry.' 'Hysteria,' that's a lot more challenging. A lot of the songs on there are hard to sing and play at the same time." more on this story




Preview of Sammy Hagar United States Of Cabo Documentary Released
(hennemusic) A new preview has been posted online for "United States Of Cabo," an independent documentary about Sammy Hagar fans (aka Redheads) which will be released in early 2014.

The film captures intimate fan stories and experiences in an attempt to showcase the essence of what it means to be a Redhead.

The idea was born in Vancouver during the Chickenfoot Road Test Tour of 2009, with the journey beginning shortly after in Lake Tahoe, quickly spreading to St. Louis, Atlantic City, Portland and of course, Cabo San Lucas – home to Sammy's Cabo Wabo Cantina.

Featuring live performance footage by Sammy, the Wabos and Chickenfoot, the documentary is directed by Murray Wasylnuk via Vancouver's Murmer Films. Watch the preview here.




Former Ozzy Guitarist Joe Holmes Returns With New Band
(Gibson) Former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Joe Holmes has released the first music by his new band, Farmikos.

Holmes was Ozzy's guitarist during for a five-year period, beginning when Zakk Wylde departed the band in the mid '90s and ending when Zakk returned. At the beginning of Holmes's time in Ozzy's band, Zakk was on the verge of becoming Slash's co-guitarist in Guns N' Roses. You can read Zakk's side of that story here.

As for Holmes, he's had quite the interesting career. Aside from several Ozzfest tours with Ozzy - and participation in the writing sessions for the Ozzman's Down To Earth album - he played with Lizzy Borden and also replaced Jason Becker in David Lee Roth's band for the A Little Ain't Enough tour, when Becker had to bow out due to his diagnosis with ALS.

Holmes's Ozzy link stretches back to his guitar teacher: one Mr. Randy Rhoads. "Not only was Randy my favorite guitar player, but he was also a really cool person," Holmes told Guitar School magazine's Jeff Kitts in 1995. "I'm not into idolizing people, but Randy was the perfect guy to look up to and want to take after." So what was it like to learn from one of metal's guiding lights? "Learning from Randy was an incredible experience," Holmes said. "At one time I stopped going to school so I could stay home all day and practice what he taught me." more on this story





Geoff Downes and Chris Braide Team Up For New Album
(Glass Onyon) Geoff Downes and Chris Braide have just released their debut collaborative album and digital single, 'Pictures of You', under the name of the Downes Braide Association (DBA).

'Pictures of You' was recorded alongside their respective commitments in 2011-12, and the song writing chemistry between Downes and Braide became immediately apparent and ultimately led to the development of 9 titles, one of which is an elaborate four-piece epic musical suite. Braide comments: "I'd wanted to work with Geoff since hearing The Age Of Plastic as a kid. The album was just great fun to make," whilst Downes added working together with Chris was " a major inspiration of monumental proportions." The album's leadoff track, 'Pictures of You', is also available as a digital only single and is accompanied by a non-album remix of the title 'Songs That Can Heal' as an exclusive bonus track.

For the uninitiated, Downes and Braide's respective song writing careers have generated multi-millions of album sales and numerous hit singles worldwide over the last 30 years for a variety of artists. more on this story




Jungle Rot Releasing Remastered Skin The Living
Jungle Rot have two releases coming out early next year. First the band will be reissuing their newly remastered 1996 classic album, Skin The Living, coming February 19th, 2013.

Front man Dave Matrise comments "We've wanted to re-issue Skin The Living for some time now and are happy that we have that opportunity. I still feel this album stands up to the test of times. Night after night on the road we hear fans screaming out the songs from the release, asking us to play and constantly asking us where they can pick up Skin The Living. This will give everyone a chance to see where it all started for J-Rot and they will have a chance to own a rare piece."

Jungle Rot will follow the reissue with the release of their eighth full length studio album on March 5th.




David Coverdale Tributes Deep Purple Bandmate Jon Lord
(hennemusic) Whitesnake leader and former Deep Purple vocalist David Coverdale has released a new video eulogy tribute to keyboardist Jon Lord.

The pair were Purple bandmates from 1973-76 in versions known as "Mark III" and "Mark IV" of the group's lineup.

Lord passed away July 16 at the age of 71 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.

Coverdale speaks fondly of his friend and remembers his first meetings with Jon - supporting Purple, joining Purple and rehearsing for the "Burn" album.

The legendary keyboard player co-wrote many of the band's legendary songs, including "Smoke On The Water," and played with many bands and musicians throughout his career. Watch the tribute here.




Heart's Ann Wilson Reacts To Led Zeppelin Tribute Reaction
(hennemusic) Heart vocalist Ann Wilson is sharing her thoughts about performing for Led Zeppelin at the band's recent Kennedy Center Honors tribute.

"I am so happy you all liked our performance of 'Stairway to Heaven' at The Kennedy Center Honors event," posted Ann. "It was our honor to be asked to do it before an audience like that. My main goal though was to please Jimmy Page, Robert Plant and John Paul Jones...especially Plant, since all these many years he has taught me so much about singing from the soul and has given me such pleasure in his lyrics. What a high that night was. Never to be forgotten!"

Heart were joined by Jason Bonham, the son of late Zeppelin drummer John; Jason played with the group at their 2007 reunion show in London, released recently as "Celebration Day."

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Ozzy Osbourne International Airport?
(hennemusic) The record company boss who discovered Black Sabbath is calling for Birmingham Airport to be named after Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne.
Big Bear Music head Jim Simpson has devised a plan of renaming the airport after plans for a Black Sabbath Day in the city were apparently shelved, reports Birmingham Mail.

"I believe that there is a masterstroke that would instantly confound the cynics," said Simpson. "Just re-name our airport! How does The Ozzy Osbourne International Airport resonate? The message that would carry is instantly international, confident, powerful, unforgettable and says 'Hey World, we are proud of our own." more on this story



Jason Newsted Would Return To Metallica If They Were 'Brofessional'

Jason Newsted says in a new interview that he would be willing to play with Metallica again if they were "brofessional about it".

Metal Shrine asked Newsted this hypothetical, "Let's just say that (current Metallica bassist) Rob Trujillo breaks his leg and they're about to go on tour and they call you. Would you do it?:

Newsted responded, "Aahhh, it kinda depends on the circumstances. God, I haven´t been asked that before. (sighs deeply) If they were cool and they were bros. Actually, here's the word, if they were brofessional about it and if they came as my brothers and they were professional with the meeting and they called the meeting and they're sitting there and looking me in the eye and the managers aren't around and we're doing this as we used to do every f**king thing, with just us and then the managers did what we told them to do… if it was like that again and the money was crazy, then I would consider it. I would consider it, but it would be only for that thing and it would to be absolutely delegated and it would have to be these 30 shows in these 45 days for this squillion dollars, then I would say most likely I would come and crush every f**ker in my sight. But it has to be that.

"I love those guys and I always will and I will defend them to the end of time. I don't dig it when people talk sh*t about them and I don't dig it when they put them down about certain music they didn't like that they did or whatever. F**k those people! As soon as the people can put out a better album than Metallica, you let me know and I'll listen to it, but until that time, just back off! I don't come and tell you how sh*tty you're doing your accountant job or whatever, you know what I mean. I don't like that part, but I'll always have respect for those guys because they gave me my chance, ok. They gave me my chance and I'll never ever forget that. Now, we've had our differences over time but that sh*t is under the bridge a long time ago. The sh*t that has transpired in the last 10 years of the rumors stuff and 'Oh, Jason got treated so bad. Poor f**king Jason.' and everything, it's such sh*t! It's so wrong and it's not the truth and it really bothers me. I understand that it gets sensationalized and blah, blah, blah. What I try to say man is trainloads, trainloads of joy, accomplishments and wonderful experiences and one little, tiny f**king symbol full of sh*t. It was joyous and victorious and accomplishing things and setting the f**king standard, you know what I mean?" Read the full interview here.



Queens of the Stone Age Go Spinal Tap With New Mockumentary

(Classic Rock) Queens of the Stone Age have released a mockumentary featuring the making of their upcoming album.

Secrets of the Sound host Matt Berry – after being corrected over the band name – explains: "Queens, it says here, are a very successful hard rock act in the US." He goes on to describe the band's collection of guitars as "guitarded."

Berry goes on to interview QOTSA mainman Josh Homme – after being corrected over his name. He asks about some of the gear in the band's studio, saying: "Some of this stuff looks sh*t. Have you kept it for sentimental reasons?"

He then asks, "How many people are in this band?" to which Homme responds, "Why, what have you heard?" Watch it here.



Led Zeppelin Didn't Just Go Through The Motions With 02 Show
(hennemusic) This week, the BBC broadcast a Led Zeppelin special featuring an extended interview with Jimmy Page.

Page sat down with the BBC's Kirsty Lang for a fireside chat about his music, past and present.

A large chunk of the interview was focused on Zeppelin's 2007 reunion, which was recently released as "Celebration Day."

Lang asked Jimmy about the band's preparations for the 02 Arena concert. "Well, it was sort of over a 6-week period. There was a lot of preparation," explained Jimmy. "The first rehearsal was really exciting because I think everyone had such a will to make it work, but neverthless, we really needed to be playing properly as a band and not just sort of go through the motions of it…we really needed to throw ourselves into the whole commitment of it. And plus, having Jason [Bonham]…Jason had the hardest job of anybody, that's my opinion anyway, because he had to fill his father's shoes and he had a lot resting on his shoulders." Watch it here.




Pennywise Launching Reunion Tour With Jim Lindberg
Pennywise will be following up their two reunion shows with singer Jim Lindberg next month with a series of North American reunion dates this winter.

The band announced recently that Lindberg had returned to the band and they would be playing a reunion show at the Palladium in Los Angeles on January 18th.

The show sold-out in 10 minutes, which lead the band to add a second show on the following day at the venue.

Now the band have announced several dates which span from late January until late March. more on this story




Mothers of Invention Co-Founder Ray Collins Dies
The Frank Zappa music family has suffered another loss. Mothers of Invention co-founder Ray Collins died on Christmas eve in Pomona, California.

Collins had been hospitalized since December 18 after suffering a massive heart attack, and was removed from life support on Saturday.

Collins was the singer who invited a young Frank Zappa to join the Soul Giants, the band that eventually would become the Mothers of Invention.

You can read an extensive 2009 feature and interview with Collins that covers a lot of his story here.




Thin Lizzy Name Change Wasn't Problem For Label Boss
(Classic Rock) Nuclear Blast president Monte Conner says he wasn't put off signing Thin Lizzy even when they decided to change their name.

Last week the band exclusively revealed via Classic Rock the reasons behind using a new title, Black Star Riders, and the departure of drummer Brian Downey and keyboardist Darren Wharton.

Ricky Warwick, Scott Gorham, Damon Johnson, Marco Mendoza and new drummer Jimmy DeGrasso will start work on their debut album next week alongside producer Kevin Shirley.

And Conner insists he didn't think twice about signing the band – even though the change of name could affect their public profile. Read what he had to say here.




Bon Jovi Experimenting With 'Different Elements' On New Album
(Gibson) Bon Jovi's Richie Sambora says the band's new album will feature "different elements," but will still retain a sound readily familiar to long-time fans.

Speaking to Billboard.com, the guitarist said the release, titled What About Now?, marks an "evolution" for the group. "Jon (Bon Jovi) and I, when we get together, it sounds like Bon Jovi," he explained. "It sounds like us. That's basically the way it is … what comes out comes out."

He added, however, that the band and co-producer John Shanks tweaked the sonic approach a bit. "[It involved] just basically pushing the production a bit more, or lessening the production so you're a bit more naked," said Sambora.

"It goes both ways on this particular record. We've stripped it down, taken some away and added some different elements." What About Now? is set for release in the spring of 2013. The first single from the album, "Because We Can," comes out January 7. more on this story






Lita Ford Read To Give Up Efforts To Reunite The Runaways
(Classic Rock) Lita Ford says she's done all she can to make a Runaways reunion happen – and it's all down to Joan Jett now.

The former bandmates, along with Cherie Currie, settled their differences during the summer, after Ford arranged dinner dates with each of them.

It was the first time she'd spoken to Jett since the band split in 1980. She said at the time: "We had a nice dinner – it was real friendly, like seeing your sister."

Now the guitarist tells Bravewords: "I can't get a yes or no out of Joan, so I've kind of thrown in the towel." more on this story




Children Of Bodom Begin Recording New Album
Children Of Bodom will begin recording their new album today, drummer Jaska Raatikainen revealed to fans on his Facebook page on Thursday (Dec. 27).

"Today we had the last rehearsals before entering the studio tomorrow to record drums for the new album," he wrote. "Last two days have been quite intensive. Playing the songs over and over again, lots of f**k ups and broken drum sticks, sweating, frustration, coffee and what have you, a little bit of arranging and all that sh*t.

"I am convinced that the new songs are great. A little bit of black metal, heavy metal, metal, old school death metal, melodies, solos and anything you need to make a nice album. And the most important, new ideas à la COB!" See the photo he posted here.




Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo To Ring In New Year With Fox News
Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo will be taking part in the "All American New Year" special on the FOX News Channel on December 31.

The New Year's Eve special will be hosted by Bill Hemmer and Megyn Kelly live from Times Square in New York. It's set to air from 11:00 p.m.-12:30 a.m. (ET).

In addition to the performance by Benatar and Giraldo, the lineup will include classical vocalist Sarah Brightman, and the cast of the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical Million Dollar Quartet. more on this story




Blink-182 Thank Fans For Successful Debut Of New EP
Blink-182's new EP, "dogs eating dogs," debuted in the U.S. at no. 23 on the Billboard 200. Their camp sent over these additional details.

Released Tuesday, December 18, dogs eating dogs, also debuted at no. 3 on the Billboard's Independent Albums chart, no. 5 on the Rock chart, no. 2 on the Alternative Albums chart and no. 3 on the Digital Albums chart.

During the past week, the EP, available as an exclusive digital download on iTunes, hit the Top 10 on iTunes Album Charts in the U.S., UK, Canada, France, Germany, Australia, Spain, Italy, Ireland, Belgium, Austria, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway and Switzerland.

Tom DeLonge of blink-182 said, "We put out our last EP in 1995. A lot has changed in all those years and we want to thank our fans for making it all possible. And, happy 'Boxing Day'!" more on this story




Thinning the Herd's Rick Cimato Killed In Car Accident
Thinning the Herd drummer Rick Cimato was killed in a auto accident this past weekend in Connecticut.

The band's frontman Gavin Spielman informed fans about death with a couple of Facebook updates. In the first one he wrote, "I just found out my best friend and drummer Rick was killed in a car accident this weekend. I don't think I can continue with Thinning the Herd anymore."

He later posted the following, " Being in a band is about being friends. In shock and in tears over the loss of my friend and bandmate, I have to think of the band. I named the band Thinning the Herd when my father Steven A. Spielman passed, to cope with the loss.

"Rick would want me to keep writing for Thinning the Herd. If stop, I would not be doing his legacy service. His drumming on the new record is some of the best rock I have heard, and I want you guys to hear it.

"Thank god for this guy, what a gift as a friend, brother and band mate. For anyone who jams with others, anyone who lets another into that higher conscious world – you might understand the depth of how one can integrate and nurture the spirit." See the band's Facebook page for any additional information.




Benedictum Name New Members and Writing With Jeff Pilson
Benedictum have recruited Tynator's Aric Avina to take over bass playing duties in the band.

The band says, "Not only has Aric shown his prowess as a bass player but also demonstrated immense 'grace under pressure' by being thrown right into the fire with recording a new album. We have found a gem... and may the metal continue!"

The group are currently working with producer John Herrera and song writers Jeff Pilson (Dokken, Foreigner) and Craig Goldy (Dio) on their next album. more on this story





Singled Out: The Indecent
Today Emily Brout from The Indecent tells us about their latest single and the title track from their new EP "Control". Here is the story:

Control was initially about O.C.D., but as I was writing, it became more about conflicted feelings, being trapped in a loop…a series of small observations about, really, anything that makes you feel like you have a limited mind. It's about fearing the inert – staying in one place, being barely alive, yet somehow being attracted to that feeling. Enjoying the soothing aspect of repetition, while also hating it at the same time. I guess it's about being stuck in one thought, but I could be wrong. I could be wrong. It's very curious – sometimes you don't become aware of the actual meaning of a song until long after you've written it, or more accurately, long after writing, you become aware of many levels of meanings that you had not been originally aware of.
I think I write a lot about that idea, about being a human trapped in their mind, a mind trapped inside a universe, a universe that might just be an illusion, a universe that might be someone else's idea, a universe that might be the idea of someone else who is trapped inside of another person's idea! You feel like your minds trapped in one fragment of one point in a lost and long gone memory. Just that one moment in your history. And all you dream of is to be some sort of superior species…one beyond human need, but with the benefits of empathy.

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Black Sabbath Will Tour In 2013
(Gibson) Tony Iommi says Black Sabbath haven't yet completed their new album. But the guitarist says the band will be touring "as much as we're able" in 2013.
Writing in a post on his website, Iommi.com , the guitar player thanked fans for their support throughout 2012 and also made reference to his battle with cancer. He wrote: "What a year! Certainly not the one I was expecting. Thanks to you all for your massive help and support, it was very encouraging. I'm still working on the album and managed to play three shows, not bad given the news a year ago. I'm looking forward to next year, seeing what you think of the record and touring as much as we're able."

Black Sabbath recently revealed that they are six tracks into recording their new album, which is due for release in April of 2013. Iommi has hinted that the final album will consist of 15 tracks. more on this story





My Bloody Valentine Complete New Album
(Gibson) It's taken 22 years, but My Bloody Valentine have completed their third album. The Anglo/Irish quartet announced on their Facebook page, "On 21-12-12 we finished mastering the new album!" There is still no release-date or title information about the full-length follow to MBV's 1991 acclaimed "shoegaze" 1991 album, Loveless.

Guitarist and leader Kevin Shields recently told NME the record will be released via the MBV website, followed by an EP of new recordings also in 2013. Shields said the new record "really frees us up, and in the bigger picture it's 100% necessary.

"People who like us will immediately connect with something. Based on the very, very few people who've heard stuff-- some engineers, the band, and that's about it-- some people think it's stranger than Loveless. I don't."

My Bloody Valentine have announced tour dates for February-March 2013, in Japan, Australia and the U.K. more on this story





Foo Fighters, Kid Rock, Jason Bonham Tribute Led Zeppelin
(hennemusic) Led Zeppelin were among the guests featured on the 2012 Kennedy Center Honors special broadcast on Boxing Day.

Robert Plant, Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones received the honors earlier this month in Washington. The annual award is given to those in the performing arts for their lifetime of contributions to American culture.

The Foo Fighters opened with "Rock And Roll," which featured drummer Taylor Hawkins out front on lead vocals while Dave Grohl handled the backbeat.

Kid Rock was up next, performing "Ramble On," from "Led Zeppelin II," while Lenny Kravitz followed with that album's opening cut, "Whole Lotta Love."

Jason Bonham, son of original drummer John and the drummer for the band's 2007 reunion show, joined Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart for a show-ending version of "Stairway to Heaven" that gradually grew to include a string section, a horde of backup singers and the Joyce Garrett Youth Choir. Watch video of the performances here.



Pearl Jam Release Christmas Single Featuring Josh Homme
(hennemusic) Pearl Jam have issued their annual fan club Christmas single. This year, the band is giving its Ten Club members a pair of recordings from the 2011's PJ20 music festival.

The first track is a performance of the "Binaural" b-side "In the Moonlight" featuring Queens Of The Stone Age's Josh Homme.

The other cut is the "No Code" outtake "All Night", featuring Joseph Arthur, Liam Finn, and Glen Hansard.

Both tracks appeared on the 2003 collection of b-sides and other released and unreleased material, "Lost Dogs." Listen to the songs here.



Metallica's 2013 Orion Music + More Festival Location Confirmed
(hennemusic) Metallica recently announced plans for the second annual Orion Music + More Festival.

The event will be held on June 8th and 9th in Detroit, MI; more news, including artist lineup and ticket details, will be revealed in February.

Now, the Detroit Free Press reports Belle Isle will be the site of the metal weekend coming to Detroit this summer - and perhaps in 2014 and 2015, as well. more on this story



Sammy Hagar Upset Over Ronnie Montrose Tribute Concert DVD Delay
(Classic Rock) Sammy Hagar says the estate of Ronnie Montrose is behind the delay in releasing the guitarist's tribute show DVD.

And the frustrated singer vows that if the concert film doesn't hit shelves soon, he'll take action himself.

Guitar icon Montrose shot himself in March this year. He had suffered from clinical depression for much of his life, and the deaths of his uncle and dog within weeks of each other are understood to have been factors in his decision to commit suicide.

The following month, surviving Montrose members Hagar, Bill Church and Denny Carmassi fronted a memorial event that also starred Joe Satriani, Neal Schon, Tommy Thayer, Jimmy DeGrasso and many others.

It was filmed, and an early release was predicted – but it's yet to take place. more on this story




Guns N' Roses Heading Down Under With ZZ Top
Guns N' Roses are said to be planning a tour in Australia this coming March with ZZ Top and The Angels.

Leading Australian news site News.com.au reports that the tour will kick off on March 9th in Perth and will include five concerts.

The site points out that Axl Rose may face a challenge when he plays the show in Melborne if he takes the stage late.

The Sidney Myer Music Bowl has a strict curfew of 11pm and during past tours in the country Rose and the band regularly didn't appear on stage until that time or later. more on this story




Black Crowes Reunion Includes Free App and New Live Album
The Black Crowes have followed up their Christmas reunion announcement with more details including news of a new live album and a free mobile web app.

The band announced on Christmas day that they were ending their hiatus and launching a UK and North American tour in 2013.

On Wednesday, the band announced that they will also be releasing a vinyl version of the live album, Wiser For The Time, on March 19th.

The eight sides on four vinyl albums will contain 26 songs--15 acoustic and 11 electric--from the band's five-night, sold-out NYC performances in the fall of 2010. These never-released-before versions will also be available as a double album digital download, according to the announcement. more on this story




Antrhax To Play Among The Living Album On Metal Alliance Tour
Organizers of The Metal Alliance Tour have released the dates for the North American trek as well as some additional details.

The tour will be headlined by Anthrax who will be performing their classic 1987 album, Among The Living, in its entirety on the trek.

Anthrax will be supported by Exodus, Municipal Waste and Holy Grail and the tour will kick off on March 23rd in Las Vegas.

Municipal Waste guitarist Ryan Waste had this to say about the tour, "I grew up listening to Anthrax and Exodus and they inspired me to start playing speed metal from the beginning. I'm thrilled to hit the road and rip it up along-side some the most influential 'bangers of our time!" more on this story




The Original Blasters Reuniting for Phil Alvin Benefit
The Original Blasters will be reuniting at the "Brotherly Love: A Night for Our Brother Phil Alvin" benefit concert which will be taking place on Saturday, January 26 at The Observatory Theatre in Santa Ana, California.

MSO sent over these details: The line-up features a virtual who's-who of the Los Angeles music community including a reunion of The Original Blasters: Dave Alvin, Phil Alvin, John Bazz and Bill Bateman; X; The Knitters; James Harman; Frank Fairfield; and the Mike Ellred Trio. Overseeing the evening's festivities is M.C. Big Sandy. Other special guest performers will be announced in the coming weeks.

Tickets for the benefit are $30 and all proceeds will be used to cover Phil Alvin's medical bills from a recent illness. In addition, a reproduction of the Fender Mustang guitar Dave Alvin played when he was in Blasters will be signed by performers and auctioned the evening of the benefit and a special poster created by acclaimed Portland graphic artist Gary Houston with these monies also allocated towards Phil's medical expenses.

About The Blasters: All American roots band The Blasters were formed in 1979 in Downey, California, by brothers Phil Alvin (vocals and guitar) and Dave Alvin (guitar) with bass guitarist John Bazz and drummer Bill Bateman. Their self-described "American Music" was a blend of blues, rockabilly, early rock and their energetic live performances gained a loyal, local following. They became fixtures of the early '80s Los Angeles punk scene, performing alongside X, Black Flag, The Gun Club, The Screamers and many others. Former Black Flag singer and current Rollins Band leader Henry Rollins wrote of the Blasters, "In my mind, they were a great band that not enough people found out about. Bill Bateman is one of the best drummers there is, and then of course, there are the Alvin brothers. A lot of talent for one band," notes for the album The Blasters Collection report that in one particular month, they toured with psychobilly pioneers The Cramps, with western swing revivalists Asleep at the Wheel and on a leg of Queen's west coast tour. The Blasters gave boosts to both Los Lobos and Dwight Yoakam by inviting them on tour; Yoakam would later score hit with his version of Dave Alvin's "Long White Cadillac." The Blasters continue to release music (their latest CD Fun On Saturday Night was released earlier this year) and tour the world. Founding member Dave Alvin left the band in 1986 to launch a successful and critically acclaimed solo career. more on this story




The Black Keys and Sonic Youth On Austin City Limits This Weekend
The Black Keys and Sonic Youth will be featured in an encore episode of Austin City Limits (ACL) airing Saturday, December 29th on PBS. We were sent these details:

The Black Keys are. The Ohio blues-rock duo are enjoying a victory lap in their road-tested career, recently scoring five 2013 Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year and Best Rock Album for their platinum-selling El Camino, capping off a stellar year that included headlining music's biggest festivals and playing to sold-out arenas worldwide.

The episode, which originally aired in October 2010, is a prescient indicator of things to come as the band bring raw energy and steel-belt grit to tracks from their 2010 breakout album Brothers in their ACL debut. more on this story




Late Suicide Silence Frontman Mitch Lucker's Final Video Interview Online
What is believed to be the final video interview with late Suicide Silence frontman Mitch Lucker has been posted online.

The full band was interviewed on Lucker's 28th birthday (October 20th), shortly before he died in a motorcycle accident on Halloween.

The interview was focused on the charity work the band had performed during the holiday season in 2001. Watch it here.




Former Thieves Break Up
Iowa hardcore band Former Thieves have announced that they are splitting up. The band posted the following "Closing Statement" on their Facebook page.

"I still think it's bullsh*t when people try to tell you that being a full-time band from Iowa is harder than being a full-time band from... Well, anywhere else. There are certainly setbacks, yes. For instance, not a lot of touring bands reside here, nor is this a music industry hub by any stretch of the imagination. Our parents or parent's friends [probably] weren't wannabe-pro-musicians at any point, so it's difficult to find a social context for what building a life as such could look like. Seclusion breeds a firm respect for tradition, so ideas like a transient lifestyle can seem socially taboo.

"What this means simply, is we don't grow up with any basis for comparison on how to navigate getting involved with a national, or for that matter international, music scene. There is the inevitable necessity for a bit more trial and error among young bands. You really have to want to look for it, because there is no chance of it just falling in your lap. Exploration is half the fun in my (our) opinion, and from experience we happen to know that every band from the middle of nowhere anywhere is just one 80 day DIY tour away from having all the contacts they need to build real momentum.

"The actual difficulty of being a band transcends location, privilege, ultimate goals, or musical ability. It's staying a band. That's the hard part. As a band progresses and time moves on, there is a lot of life happening in the periphery. It gets to be a lot to balance. The task becomes how well you can keep one foot planted in two polarized worlds, without getting completely lost in the tap-dancing act of making a home life and a band life work. There's no easy way to say this, but that's where we as Former Thieves have become exhausted. the rest of the statement here.




Love/Hate Planning Blackout '13 Tour
Jizzy Pearl has put together a new version of Love/Hate and announced tour dates for their 'Blackout '13' tour.

The group announced a string of UK tour dates for the trek, two California dates and also stated that more US Dates will be announced next month.

The current lineup features guitarist Keri Kelli (Alice Cooper, Slash's Snakepit), bassist Robbie Crane (Ratt, Lynch Mob) and drummer Matt Starr (Ace Frehley).

Kelli sent out a Christmas email to fans which said, "Through March and April I will be joining my brothers in ROQ Jizzy Pearl, Robbie Crane and Matt Star as we do battle with the diehard Love/Hate fans in the UK. Would really like to see you ALL out on these special shows, as you know we don't do them often." more on this story




The Sword Release Limited Edition Album and Kicking Off Tour
The Sword are finishing 2012 with a special limited edition release and will begin 2013 with a new tour.

The band have released a special, limited-edition 180 gram audiophile black LP of their current album, Apocryphon, and are offering fans the opportunity to purchase the vinyl (and additional band merchandise) at a 25% discount by using the special code RT25 at checkout beginning now through January 1st on their online store here.

The Sword will be kicking off their European tour on January 6th. The trek starts with a UK leg followed by a series of shows in continental Europe that wraps up in Copenhagen on January 27th. more on this story




Guns N' Roses' Bumblefoot Offering Free Song Download
Guns N' Roses guitarist Bumblefoot is offering fans a free song download for joining his new mailing list.

His camp says: Bumblefoot dug into his vault to find an unreleased, heavier version of the song "Misery" from his Abnormal album. The song is free to everyone, all you have to do is visit www.Bumblefoot.com and join the brand new Bumblefoot email list.

Bumblefoot wants to keep you updated on his 2013 plans with Guns N' Roses, his work with vocalist Tony Harnell, new products such as the Bumblefoot hot sauces, and much more. This track can't be found anywhere else, only at Bumblefoot.com.

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