Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Guns N' Roses Leader Axl Rose Loses $20 Million Legal Battle
(Classic Rock) Guns N' Roses frontman Axl Rose has lost his court case against video game maker Activision.
Rose had been battling the corporation since 2010, claiming they'd breached an agreement over his appearance in 2007′s Guitar Hero III: Legends Of Rock.

He said they'd been allowed to use classic track Welcome To The Jungle as long as former colleague Slash and his then-active band Velvet Revolver didn't appear in the game. But when it was released Slash was the main image on the cover artwork, leading Rose to call his lawyers in.

He'd had demanded $20m in compensation, arguing that the song's appearance helped the firm generate over $1bn in sales.

On Friday Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Charles Palmer threw out the last of the singer's arguments, after having previously ruled out his claims of fraud and misrepresentation. more on this story



Bon Jovi Tour Opener Sidelined By Blizzard But Band Plays Free Show
Bon Jovi was forced to postpone the first concert of their North American tour after a blizzard hit New England.

The band was set to kick off the tour on Saturday night in Connecticut but after the governor declared a state of emergency and issued a mandatory statewide travel ban, the group was forced to postpone the show.

But fans and employees who were at the Mohegan Sun Arena were treated to a free impromptu concert on Saturday night, according to the band's website.

They said of the surprise set, "Bon Jovi recognizes how much preparation it takes for fans to attend a concert and they wanted to honor that the best way that they know how."

The band has already announced that the make up date for the show will take place on October 25th and tickets from the original concert will be honored on the new date.




Former Korn Star Strikes Plea Deal
Former Korn drummer David Silveria has struck a plea deal for his DUI arrest last March in Orange County, Ca.

Silveria was charged with driving under the influence after he admitted to police that he had taken a sleeping pill the night before.

He was questioned after he rear-ended another vehicle while on the way to breakfast and then allegedly left the scene of the accident on March 25th in Huntington Beach, Ca.

Silveria said that he suffered from insomnia and had taken a sleeping pill, but didn't realize that he was still too exhausted to drive the next morning when the accident occurred.

The drummer originally entered a not guilty plea to the DUI as well as a hit and run charge. more on this story



Rick Rubin Wanted Ginger Baker For Black Sabbath
(Classic Rock) Always-controversial producer Rick Rubin wanted Cream drummer Ginger Baker to replace Bill Ward in Black Sabbath, guitarist Tony Iommi has revealed.

The band's plans for 13, their first album with Ozzy Osbourne since 1978′s Never Say Die were thrown into turmoil after Ward refused to participate saying he hadn't been offered a contact that was "signable."

But Iommi, who faced his own challenges with a cancer battle, rejected Rubin's suggestion of calling Baker, who was recently named rock's craziest drummer.

The guitarist tells Rolling Stone: "I thought, 'Bloody hell!' I just couldn't see that." more on this story



Bret Michaels Previews Loretta Lynn 'Every Rose Has Its Thorn' Duet
(hennemusic) Bret Michaels is offering up previews of tracks from his forthcoming new solo album, "Good Songs & Great Friends," which is due March 26.

The latest is Bret's duet with country music legend Loretta Lynn on a remake of Poison's smash hit, "Every Rose Has Its Thorn."

"Good Songs & Great Friends" also includes a live duet with Jimmy Buffett ("Margaritaville"), a cover of "Sweet Home Alabama" with Gary Rossington, Rickey Medlocke and Peter Keys from Lynyrd Skynyrd playing on the track.

The album also features guest appearances from Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Michael Anthony of Van Halen/Chickenfoot, Leslie West of Mountain, Ace Frehley of Kiss/Frehley's Comet, and others. Check out the preview here.



KISS Frontman Paul Stanley Appearing on Alice Cooper's Radio Show
(hennemusic) KISS frontman Paul Stanley will appear on Alice Cooper's syndicated radio program, "Nights with Alice Cooper," on Wednesday, February 13 and Thursday, February 21.

According to the producer, Paul's interview was "so great" they had to make it a two-part feature.

"Nights with Alice Cooper" is broadcast on over 100 radio stations in the U.S., six in Canada, and is also available in the U.K. and Australia. more on this story




Johnny Marr Launching North American Solo Tour
(Gibson) Former Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr has announced an 18-date North American tour in support of his new solo album, The Messenger.

Kicking off in Las Vegas on April 11, the three-week trek will follow several U.K. dates slated for March.

The North American tour includes two shows with New Order and performances both weekends of the Coachella Festival. Set for release on February 26, The Messenger is said by Details magazine to "hark back to the '80s with chiming, effects-laden guitars and dreamy vocals."

The album was written and produced by Marr, who recorded in Manchester and in Berlin. Engineer Frank Arkwright mastered the disc at Abbey Road Studios. more on this story





Thin Lizzy Cancel Tour Dates
(hennemusic) Due to circumstances "way beyond the band's control," Thin Lizzy have announced the cancellation of most of their headline appearances on the forthcoming Australia tour.

All Thin Lizzy shows announced with KISS and Motley Crue will take place along with the headline show at Melbourne's Billboard on March 4th.

Thin Lizzy have recently morphed into the new band, Black Star Riders. The group completed recording their debut album last week, after less than a month in the studio with producer Kevin Shirley; release date is to be announced. more on this story




David Bowie and Iggy Pop's Berlin Years Inspires New Film
(Radio.com) David Bowie's time spent in Berlin, Germany in the late 1970s, during which time his roommate was Iggy Pop, is the stuff of sex, drugs and rock & roll myths.

Now it seems these tales will come to life in a new biopic about Bowie and the Stooges frontman, tentatively titled (after the latter's heroin-inspired hit) Lust for Life.

Bowie relocated to Germany in late 1976 for the avant garde art scene and the collaboration of Pop, Brian Eno and more. Bowie would go on to make albums that comprise his Berlin triology: 1977′s Low, 1977′s Heroes 1979′s Lodger, while simultaneously working with Pop on his first two solo albums, The Idiot and Lust for Life (both in 1977).

"[Lust for Life] is not a traditional rock biopic, for no one dies at the end," producer Egoli Tossell said in a statement.

It's an unconventional biopic in more ways than that, however. The central character of the film will be rather obtuse. more.



3 Inches Of Blood and Goatwhore Plan Spring Tour
3 Inches Of Blood will be teaming up with Goatwhore this spring to launch a North American coheadlining tour.

The tour is set to kick off on April 11th in Kelowna, BC and will conclude on May 4th in Cleveland, OH.

The bands will also be making a stop along the tour to take part in the infamous New England Metal & Hardcore Festival on April 20th.

3 Inches Of Blood will be touring to support their latest album, Long Live Heavy Metal. more on this story




Fleetwood Mac Star Can't Ask Christine McVie To Rejoin The Band
(Classic Rock) Fleetwood Mac drummer Mick Fleetwood admits he's not allowed to ask Christine McVie to rejoin the band again.

She retired in 1998 and has only attended a handful of shows since then – but she's made it clear she has no interest in making a comeback. Fleetwood tells the Telegraph: "I've had to agree to stop asking her."

The band were able to regain guitarist Lindsey Buckingham in 2003, although Fleetwood admits that reopened some of the four-piece's infamous emotional wounds.

"To see Stevie Nicks, just a week ago, saying to Lindsey that she understood he left because he couldn't stand to see her destroy herself – it was a heavy, good moment. I'm moved even talking about this." more on this story




Dio Members Making Tour Plans
(Classic Rock) The original surviving members of Dio are aiming to tour the UK in July as part of a wider European tour.

Last In Line consists of guitarist Vivian Campbell, bassist Jimmy Bain, keyboardist Claude Schnell and drummer Vinny Appice.

They're joined by former Lynch Mob and Hurricane vocalist Andy Freeman, who'll fill the gap left by the late Ronnie James Dio.

Campbell – who left Dio in 1987 to join Whitesnake and has been with Def Leppard since 1992 – tells BackstageAxxess: "We're calling it Last In LIne after the second album." more on this story




The Melvins Recruit Friends For Covers Album
The Melvins have set an April 30th release date for their new covers album, "Everybody Loves Sausages." Their camp sent over these details:

"This record will give people a peak into the kind of things that influence us musically," explains Buzz Osborne. "We REALLY like all of these songs along with the bands who actually wrote this stuff because first and foremost we are HUGE music fans."

In a decidedly Melvins approach to a covers album, the band not only selected a unique assortment of songs to cover, ranging from Roxy Music's "In Every Dream Home A Heartache" to Queen's "Best Friend," they also enlisted several friends to take part including Mudhoney's Mark Arm joining them for The Scientists' "Set It On Fire" and Neurosis' Scott Kelly pitching in on a cover of Venom's "Warhead."

While the release is billed as a proper Melvins' album (featuring the line-up of Osborne, Dale Crover, Jared Warren and Coady Willis), there are a handful of songs recorded as the Melvins Lite incarnation of the band (Osborne, Crover and Trevor Dunn): "Female Trouble" (Divine a.k.a. John Waters), "Timothy Leary Lives" (Pop-O-Pies) and "Romance By Tales of Terror" (Tales of Terror). more on this story




The Toadies Announce 2013 Dia De Los Toadies
The Toadies are taking their annual music festival, Dia De Los Toadies, home this year to Fort Worth, Texas.

The festival, their sixth, will take place on September 13th and 14th at the Panther Island Pavilion.

Toadies will be kicking it off with acoustic fireside performance on Friday along with not-yet-announced special guests.

The next day the band will headline the festival which will feature a "full day of bands," with only the Toadies announced so far.

"It's been great moving the Dia festival around Texas, but at a certain point, we realized that we need to share it with our hometown, Fort Worth, where the band is still based. Â We played Billy Bob's last year and it reminded us what a hometown crowd is like, so moving the festival made perfect sense," says Toadies guitarist, Clark Vogeler. more on this story




Halestorm Win Hard Rock/Metal Grammy Award
(Classic Rock) Halestorm won the 2013 Hard Rock/Metal Grammy for their track Love Bites (So Do I) on Sunday Night, beating Iron Maiden, Megadeth Anthrax, Marilyn Manson and Lamb of God for the award.

Lzzy Hale's outfit thanked their parents and fellow nominees after being named winners for their track from 2012 album The Strange Case Of… She said: "The song wouldn't have been possible without these people."

The revamped single award for rock and metal was handed out ahead of the televised ceremony featuring what are regarded as the mainstream Grammys. more on this story



Slade's Noddy Holder Hopes Exhibition Will Gain Glam Era More Respect
(Classic Rock) Former Slade frontman Noddy Holder hopes a new art exhibition will make people take the glam era more seriously.

His Wolverhampton outfit were among the leaders of the early 1970s movement, spearheading experimentation with glitter makeup, high heels and outrageous costumes.

The trend was taken in different directions by artists including David Bowie, T Rex, Roxy Music and The Sweet. Their fashion statements later influenced American rock outfits including Motley Crue, WASP and Twisted Sister.

Now the Tate Liverpool gallery is hosting Glam! The Performance Of Style until May 12, featuring over 100 artworks from big names including Andy Warhol, David Hockney and many others. more on this story



Dunlop Releases Eddie Van Halen Signature Effects Anniversary Series
(hennemusic) Dunlop is celebrating 35 years since the debut of Eddie Van Halen with the Limited Edition 35th Anniversary Series of EVH signature effects.

The gear features finishes based on Eddie's legendary black and white and Frankenstein guitars. With premium quality high-gloss paints, the result is a collection of richly finished pedals that are as ready for the showroom floor as they are for the road.

The 35th Anniversary series include the MXR EVH-117 Flanger, the MXR EVH Phase 90, and the Dunlop EVH Wah Guitar Effects Pedal. more on this story




Neil Young, Elton John, Sting Tribute Bruce Springsteen
(Classic Rock) Bruce Springsteen helped raise more than $250,000 for MusiCares at the weekend, during a gala night in which he was named Person Of The Year by the charity.

The evening included a tribute concert featuring Neil Young, Elton John, Sting and many others, before the Boss himself hit the stage.

Gala host Jon Stewart hailed Springsteen's music, saying how it inspired him as a young hopeful to think, "I am not a loser – I am a character in an epic poem about losers." more on this story





Singled Out: Cartel
Today Cartel frontman Will Pugh tells us about the song "Uninspired," the first track released from their new album 'Collider,' which will be released on March 26th. Here is the story:

I've had the lyric "I'm a bit overwhelmed. Some may call it uninspired..." in my head for at least 4 years at this point. As a songwriter, little "nuggets" of songs come like an epiphany and then you spend the rest of your time trying to figure out how to make the rest of the song live up to how good you think that "nugget" or "embryo" is. It's truly a painstaking task. That's what writing Uninspired was like. I had the riff and a demo to sing the melody to but I had no clear direction other than what the initial lyric laid out. It was only when we came down to recording that I finally grasped a clear picture of what I wanted to convey lyrically.

The song is about coming to the end of the road creatively. That is to say, at some point, every artists feels like they've drained the well or the resource for the creative juices that lead to uninhibited expression. I had sort of hit a brick wall in knowing what to write about when it came to Cartel. So, I decided to write the most honest song I could about what it's like being in a band that has seen and done it all. The vulnerability that is exhibited in this song is unparalleled in the rest of Cartel's body of work. Thus, once I wrote "...so what is there left to do when someone's so young and admired?", I had found the appropriate way forward.

This has turned into one of our favorite songs we've ever done and I think that's evident when listening to the track. We put our all into this entire record and we're happy to have released Uninspired to the world and see them enjoy it as much as we do.

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




Bret Michaels Previews New TV Series
(hennemusic) Fans can watch a preview of Poison singer Bret Michaels hosting the all-new series "Rock My RV" which will air on Travel Channel beginning in May.

Fans of Michaels know him as a long-time RV devotee, and now Travel Channel is revealing, for the first time, just how deep his RV passions run. Michaels, a hands-on enthusiast, leads a team of skilled, custom RV designers and fabricators who transform travelers' ordinary RVs into the most outrageous, badass, hooked-up mobile mansions on the road.

"For the past 25 years, Bret Michaels has spent at least 9 months out of the year in a tour bus that he personally designs from top to bottom," said Andy Singer, Travel Channel GM. "We couldn't think of a better frontman than Bret for the series. He lives and breathes life on the road, and undoubtedly, holds the record for the most hours logged in a custom coach. Bret jumped at the chance to share his passion for travel and the RV experience through the fascinating, obsessive world of customizing RVs."

"Between touring and traveling, I spend a lot of time on the road, and my tricked-out, custom coach is my home away from home," says Michaels. "I crisscross the country and live in my tour bus, and I know how to take an RV from ordinary to extraordinary. I can't wait to put my expertise to use and show people how to make their RVs rock." Check out the preview here.




Jack White Performs At The Grammys
(hennemusic) Jack White performed at the Grammy Awards on Sunday night, live from Los Angeles.

White was nominated for three awards from "Blunderbuss", including Album of the Year, Best Rock Album, and "Freedom At 21" for Best Rock Song.

Jack went zero-for-three on the evening, but did rock the show with a performance of "Love Interruption" and "Freedom At 21."

"Blunderbuss" was named the biggest selling vinyl album of 2012, with sales of more than 33,000 copies. Watch the Grammy performance here.



Gemini Syndrome Release New Video and Offer Free Song Download
Gemini Syndrome recently signed to Warner Bros. Records and hit the road with Mushroomhead on Friday.

The celebrate the new tour, the band have release a music video for their first single and are also offering fans a free download of the song.

You can check out the video for "Pleasure & Pain" here and if you like what you hear, you can download the track

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Black Sabbath Plan North American Summer Tour
It looks like it will be Sabbath Summer Sabbath for North American Black Sabbath fans as Geezer Butler laid out the band's upcoming tour plans in a recent interview.
The legendary metal band will be releasing, 13, their first album since reuniting with Ozzy Osbourne in June and we now learn they do intend to tour behind the effort despite guitarist Tony Iommi's battle with cancer.

Geezer Butler was interviewed at the NAMM show last month and said the album was currently being mixed and laid out the band's touring plans for this year to support the effort.

"We start at the end of April in New Zealand, then we go to Australia, then Japan. June, we'll be promoting the album, then July and August [is] USA. Then October is South America and Europe in November and December."

He was also asked who would be playing drums on the tour, Brad Wilk who recorded the album with them or Ozzy's solo band drummer Tommy Clufetos who has been playing with them live and Geezer said that detail has not yet been worked out. You can watch the video interview here.



Randy Blythe's Manslaughter Trial Delayed
(Classic Rock) Randy Blythe's manslaughter trial will be delayed until next month after the Lamb of God singer's lawyers asked for a postponement.

Blythe will return to the United States until proceedings begin again in Prague on March 4.

The delay was agreed after an essential witness was too ill to attend the court. Blythe said earlier this week via his Instagram account: "I have heard of some people talking smack about the Czech Republic. This not how it should be." read more.




Van Halen Classic Albums Remastered For Box Set
Van Halen have set a March 26th release date for a new limited edition box set entitled "Van Halen: The Studio Albums 1978-1984."

The 6-CD set features all the remastered albums from the original lineup of the group from their self-titled debut through "1984."

It appears that the set will not feature bonus tracks of extras, the CDs will be in mini-jackets and the housed in a clamshell box.

Van Halen: Runnin' With The Devil • Eruption • You Really Got Me • Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love • I'm The One • Jamie's Cryin' • Atomic Punk • Feel Your Love Tonight • Little Dreamer • Ice Cream Man • On Fire

Van Halen II: You're No Good • Dance The Night Away • Somebody Get Me A Doctor • Bottoms Up! • Outta Love Again • Light Up The Sky • Spanish Fly • D.O.A. • Women In Love... • Beautiful Girls.
more.




Motley Crue Not Far From Retirement
(Classic Rock) Motley Crue are at work on another album, says Nikki Sixx, despite Vince Neil's suggestion that they wouldn't make another long-player.

But the bassist also confirms the band are thinking about ending their career, with a farewell tour in the "near future," because they want to bow out while they're enjoying a high point in their history.

The veteran outfit know they can't go on for ever, Sixx says. "We haven't been shy that Motley Crue has been talking about somewhere in the near future doing a farewell tour," he reports.

"It's not that we hate each other, or we don't work together well. I think it's just, at some point we want to leave it with some sort of a legacy. I see some bands that keep beating a dead horse and I'm like, 'Get off the horse, dude.'" more on this story





Baroness Tour Bus Driver Facing Criminal Charges
(Classic Rock) Baroness' tour bus driver is to face criminal charges as a result of the crash that left the band seriously injured.

Norman Markus, a 39-year-old German, will appear in Bath Magistrates' Court on April 5.

He will face charges of dangerous driving, using a vehicle with defective brakes, breaching a weight limit, taking insufficient rest periods and using a vehicle in a condition likely to cause injury. More rock news.




Elton John To Guest On New Queens Of The Stone Age Album
(Classic Rock) Queens Of The Stone Age have recruited Elton John to guest on their upcoming album.

John confirmed the news while speaking to Dave Ghrohl, who's recorded drums for the record, on US TV.

Josh Homme's guest list on the follow-up to 2007′s Era Vulgaris features Mark Lanegan, Nick Oliveri, Trent Reznor, Brody Dalle and Jake Shears of Scissor Sisters. More rock news.




Muse For March Madness
(Radio.com) The NCAA unveiled Muse's Grammy-nominated hit "Madness" as the official soundtrack to the 2013 March Madness Men's Basketball Tournament.

"Muse: Madness" features the UK band's hit single with a montage of highlight footage from NCAA basketball games mixed with live shots of the band on their current tour for The 2nd Law.

"I kind of felt like that would be a good direction to go in for us, because everything we normally do is quite overblown and theatrical and all that stuff," Muse frontman Matt Bellamy told Radio.com about the creation of "Madness" during an exclusive interview.

"I was quite into the minimalism of it. So it was written in that way. It was just me alone in a room, jaded, basically. That's how the song emerged." Check it out.




KISS Hacker Pleads Guilty
(Classic Rock) A 25-year-old man has pled guilty to being part of an Anonymous attack on Kiss star Gene Simmons' websites.

The attack took place in 2010 after Simmons argued the music industry should react strongly to online piracy, saying: "Sue everybody. Take their houses, their cars."

Kevin George Poe faces up to a year's probation including as much as six months of house arrest. more rock news.




Dave Grohl Guests on RDGLDGRN Song
(Gibson) Ever eager to find new collaborations, Foo Fighters main man Dave Grohl have once again found himself behind the drums of another band.

Grohl, who grew up in northern Virginia is playing drums on the song "I Love Lamp" by Washington D.C. based rockers RDGLDGRN.

The title of the song alludes to a line by Steve Carell in the now classic comedy Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy. The track itself has some great guitar lines backed by Grohl's heavy drum sound.

"I Love Lamp" is taken from RDGLDGRN's self-titled debut EP, to be released on February 12. It is quite a feat to score a drummer of Grohl's caliber for your debut. The trio apparently met Grohl last summer at LA's Sound City Studios while he was working on his documentary about the studio. more on this story






Rihanna Sidelines Extreme's Tour Plans
(hennemusic) Extreme have postponed a series of Australian dates in April due to Rihanna's world tour scheduling.

"Due to an unforeseen conflict in scheduling, Extreme regret that they will be postponing their previously announced 2013 April Australian tour," posted the group.

"The band are looking forward to returning to Australia and reconnecting with their loyal fans and are working with Lennard Promotions on rescheduling the tour. All tickets purchased will be fully refunded and revised dates for the tour will be announced at a later time. Extreme and Lennard Promotions regret any inconvenience that this rescheduling may cause for those who have already purchased tickets and look forward to announcing revised dates as soon as possible."

Extreme's plans have changed due to Nuno Bettencourt's commitments as touring guitarist for Rihanna. more on this story





Iron Maiden's Steve Harris Kicking Off Solo Tour With Charity Show
(Classic Rock) Iron Maiden mainman Steve Harris will kick off his first-ever solo tour with a charity show in Portugal.

The event takes place at the Moto Clube de Faro on February 20. Tickets cost €10 with all profits going to the Red Cross.

Harris and the club have a long-standing relationship through mutual friend Manu DaSilva, who died in 2006, leading to Maiden's appearance in Portugal to pay tribute in 2011.

The bassist says: "We're really looking forward to starting off the tour at the Moto Clube de Faro. They have a brand-new 600-capacity clubhouse which makes an ideal venue for our first-ever live show. We're very pleased to be donating to the Red Cross." more on this story




Anthrax Drummer Now Sees Caggiano's Departure As A Bit Sketchy
(Classic Rock) Anthrax drummer Charlie Benante describes Rob Caggiano's departure from the band, followed by his decision to join Volbeat, as seeming "a bit sketchy."

The guitarist surprised his bandmates and fans alike by announcing he'd quit last month, saying he wanted to concentrate on production in the near future, and later adding his time with the thrash giants hadn't been creative.

His first desk job was with Volbeat – but earlier this week he confirmed that, as a result of the studio work, he'd joined the band full-time.

Benante tells Metal Insider, "I know a lot of our fans were sad to see him go, but were like, 'If you want to go produce, we understand that.' But when you read that he went to go join another band, that makes it seem a bit sketchy." Read the rest of what he had to say here.




Chris Squire Reacts To Rush Being Inducted Into Rock Hall Before Yes
(hennemusic) In a new interview with Rolling Stone, Yes bassist Chris Squire discusses, among other topics, how he feels about being snubbed by the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame for another year, and comments on Rush's upcoming induction.

Q: Rush are getting inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. Are you at all miffed they got it before you?

A: (Laughs) "No, I can't object to that. Logistically, it's probably difficult for whoever the committee is to bring in Yes. Rush is fairly simple. It's the same three guys and always has been. They deserve to be there, no doubt about that.

But there still seems to be a certain bias towards early-Seventies prog rock bands like Yes and King Crimson. I still think it's weird that Chicago isn't in. That to me is odd. In our case, we're on our 18th member. If we ever do get inducted, it would be only fair to have all the members, old and new. So that may be a problem for the committee. I don't know." more on this story




Dislike of Rush Led To Coheed & Cambria?
(Radio.com) It may be the similarity between that Coheed & Cambria frontman Claudio Sanchez voice to Geddy Lee's that so many fans draw comparisons between the bands.

But Claudio Sanchez would like to clear up the misconception that Coheed & Cambria are big Rush fans. Moreover, if it hadn't been for his initial dislike of the band, Sanchez may never have picked up a guitar. Confused?

In a tale told to Radio.com, Sanchez explains when he began playing music, his first choice was the drums. Despite the fact that he didn't even own a drum set, he teamed with his best friend and went on the hunt for a guitar player.

The guitarist they found who considered joining had one stipulation; "We have to play Rush covers." Smiling, Sanchez admits he had no idea who Rush was at the time but acquiesced and said, "Sure, why not…" But later that night, the would-be guitarist decided not to join the band, telling Sanchez through a friend, "You guys are just a bunch of dreamers. Nothing's ever gonna happen for you."

Wanting nothing more than to make him eat his words, Sanchez decided to learn to play the guitar. "And that's why I had no interest in Rush," recalls Sanchez. "It's so funny that it became the one band that everyone compares us to." How does he feel about Rush now?




Soundgarden Recording Final Tour Stop For TV
(hennemusic) The final date of Soundgarden's current North American tour, in support of "King Animal," will be filmed by the television series "Live From The Artist's Den."

The three-time New York Emmy-Nominated music television series features popular recording artists performing in non-traditional settings throughout North America.

The program is giving away round-trip airfare & tickets for one fan & a guest to attend the February 17th show at The Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles. more on this story




Troggs' Cliff Britton Tributes Reg Presley
(Classic Rock) Troggs guitarist Cliff Britton has paid tribute to singer Reg Presley, who died on Monday after a cancer battle.

Britton says: "He was a very positive character who had a weird and wonderful sense of humour. A good and very reliable bloke to work with."

Presley retired in 2012 after being diagnosed with the disease but remained close to his bandmates, who continue to play with guest vocalist Chris Allen. more on this story




Van Halen Streams Japanese Radio Show Debut
(hennemusic) Van Halen frontman David Lee Roth is sharing audio of his first radio broadcast in Japan.

Entitled "David Lee Roth's Tokyo Hi-Power Style Radio Show", the word is that Roth has been renting recording studio space in Japan and recently put together a program.

Dave is joined by a female translator for the show, which features a variety of music styles and, naturally, Roth rambling, laughing and singing along with the tunes. more on this story





Planet Rock Sold To Kerrang Radio Owner
(Classic Rock) Struggling digital radio channel Planet Rock has been bought by Bauer Media for around £1.3m (approx $2.04m) but the move could put Kerrang Radio's future in doubt because the German firm now owns both.

Planet Rock – which features on-air hosts Alice Cooper, Joe Elliott and Joe Bonamassa, amongst others – had been on the market for some time as former owner Malcolm Bluemel tried to stem losses of approximately £300,000 a year. Much of the cost came from broadcasting charges of around £1m per annum.

Bluemel says: "Planet Rock is going to a great home. Bauer is a business that really cares about building brands and music radio in particular. The station is in safe hands with the new owners and I'm looking forward to following its success."

The channel has around 877,000 regular listeners, fewer than Kerrang's 1.3m – but Bauer appear to be committed to digital national radio, meaning Kerrang's FM regional base may be worth less to the firm. more on this story




Singled Out: JL Stiles
Today JL Stiles tells us about the song "Movin'" from his brand new album "JL Stiles Presents The House of Murmurs". Here is the story:

Movin' is about a high school student I had named Seth Koeller, who I tutored in Mathematics and guitar. Seth and I had quite a few run-ins on doing his Mathematics, which he resisted and made a big deal out of doing, but he could fingerpick damn well and had lots of talent and passion as well as angst galore. Seth's greatest strength was honesty and he loved his dog Pico, a very sweet Golden. In the house there was a picture of Seth surfing when he was just a little kid. Apparently he was quite good, naturally very athletic and beautiful. The girls loved him, obviously, even though we never talked about that stuff. I mostly fought with him or tried to outsmart him, uncuccessfully, into doing his math and keeping his mom and dad, Mary and Paul, happy. Seth did say he would like to be an astronaut and I told him he would definitely need to learn some math for that. I became close with the family, really loved them; sometimes patched up friction as the outside ear.

Well, one night I got a call from another mother whose son I was tutoring telling me Seth was dead, that he had been hit by a car after curfew late at night while walking along the narrow and treacherous route 1 out by Montara. Mary was too old to have another. I woke up one night really late and started singing the opening chorus and then the verses came out quickly. The marimba part stuck in my head for a long time until I found that marimba waiting for me at the Bakery Studios in Athens, GA. I didn't know they had one and such a thing is not common to come by.

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




Hellogoodbye Release Finding Something To Do Video
Hellogoodbye have released a new music video for their song "Finding Something To Do".

The band decided to take a camera crew with them on a mini-tour, with the end result of creating a tour video for their classic track, "Finding Something To Do".

The video was shot at their NYC holiday show this past November, and in it fans will also see combinations of concert scenes along with pieces of the band members hanging out backstage, being themselves. Watch the video here





Classic Rock Preview Jimi Hendrix Fanpack
(Classic Rock) Classic Rock's Jim Hendrix People, Hell & Angels Fanpack goes on sale next month but they have released an exclusive 'page turner' preview online.

Our Fanpack features the brand new studio recorded album by Jimi Hendrix in full, a 116-page magazine that forms the ultimate sleevenotes to the new album, plus two exclusive collectible A4 artcards.

The album consists of 12 previously unreleased tracks recorded by Jimi Hendrix whilst starring in the 'Jimi Hendrix Experience'.

This special album showcases the legendary guitarist working outside of the original Jimi Hendrix Experience trio. Beginning in 1968, Hendrix grew restless, eager to develop new material with old friends and new ensembles. Outside the view of a massive audience that had established the Experience as rock's largest grossing concert act and simultaneously placed two of his albums together in the US Top 10 sales chart, Jimi was busy working behind the scenes to craft his next musical statement.

These 12 recordings encompass a variety of unique sounds and styles incorporating many of the elements – horns, keyboards, percussion and second guitar – Jimi wanted to incorporate within his new music. People, Hell & Angels presents some of the finest Jimi Hendrix guitar work ever issued and provides a compelling window into his growth as a songwriter, musician and producer. Check out the page turner preview here.




Eric Clapton Talks Up and Demonstrates Lucy Les Paul
(Gibson) Eric Clapton recently was filmed at his London home talking with Guitar Center representatives about, well, guitars.

The chat was conducted in part to promote the Eric Clapton Crossroads Guitar Collection, a limited-edition series that features five Clapton tribute, replica and signature guitars.

In the video, Clapton talks about the George Harrison-Eric Clapton "Lucy" Les Paul, and offers up a few licks on the instrument as well.

Clapton played the beautiful, cherry red guitar on The Beatles' "While My Guitar Gently Weeps." Harrison can be seen playing the guitar in the 1968 promo film for "Revolution."

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Randy Blythe Speaks Out About Reports Of His Manslaughter Trial
Lamb of God frontman Randy Blythe has called out the accuracy of media reports about his trial for manslaughter charges in the Czech Republic.
Blythe's trial began on Monday (Feb 4.) where he is accused of manslaughter in the death of a fan that died two weeks after being allegedly injured at the band's concert in Prague in 2010.

The singer addressed fans on Tuesday via his Instagram account. He posted a photo along with the following message:

"I have read a few news reports of the progress of my case, and trust me- many things are incorrect. But this is the Internet, and of course things are half-baked anyway. Keep in mind that translation is difficult, and many things can be lost, for Czech is a VERY DIFFICULT language. So wait and see, as I am. It is all I can do, except be honest & fight for my freedom in my own way.

"I also have heard of some people (not on here) talking smack about the Czech Republic, saying "F— the Czech Republic", etc. This not how it should be. This is a very sad case, not something to rage at people you do not know over. I am not angry with the Czechs at all. A fan of my band is dead- what do I have to be angry about? I am an INNOCENT man, but I am also a very sad man right now. To not be sad in this instance would be inhuman. But mad at the Czech people? Why would I be mad at them? Here, look at this picture - a mother watches her baby. The child reaches out for something new, laughing and chasing a pretty picture in the air. It is the same here as everywhere else. Do you see?!?!? Life is beautiful. I hope to see y'all soon." Blythe posted an earlier message



Vince Neil Rules Out New Motley Crue Album
(hennemusic) Motley Crue singer Vince Neil says the band is planning to record some new music, but fans should not expect an album of material.

"No, no new album," Neil tells Music News Nashville. "What I'm hearing is that maybe two or three or four more songs might come out to go with that song we released this year ("Sex"), but it will be something like an EP, not an album.

"Our schedule seems to have a lot of touring. If something did come out in the form of an EP, it would probably be in the beginning of 2014."

Vince was asked how the Crue write their songs. "It starts out with a guitar riff, and then we put it together with the other instruments and put a melody to it," he explains. "After the melody and song structure are finished, we edit different parts in and out, and eventually, it all combines to become a song."

The singer says that songwriting is not as difficult as some might think. Read about that here.



Led Zeppelin and Metallica Make Craziest Drummer List
(hennemusic) Led Zeppelin's John Bonham and Metallica's Lars Ulrich are among the names included in Esquire's newly-published list of the 10 Craziest Drummers Ever.

The list grew out of a story on "Beware Mr. Baker," the newly-released documentary about Cream drummer Ginger Baker.

Beyond the above three names mentioned, the feature includes Black Sabbath's Bill Ward, Keith Moon of The Who, Motley Crue's Tommy Lee, Topper Headon of The Clash, Hellyeah's Vinnie Paul and more.




The Almighty Reunite
(Classic Rock) The Almighty are starting working on reunion music, frontman Ricky Warwick has announced.

The band's classic lineup, featuring Stumpy Monroe, Pete Freisen and Floyd London will record new studio material later this year.

They formed in Glasgow in 1988 and last gathered for a tour in 2008, after reuniting two years previously. While an album was discussed at the time it didn't take shape.

Now Warwick – who's just completed work on the debut album by Thin Lizzy spinoff Black Star Riders – says: "The classic lineup of The Almighty all got together for the first time in many years and spoke about plans for the 25th anniversary. more on this story



Arctic Monkeys Announce U.S. Tour Dates
Arctic Monkeys will be returning to the United States in May to perform a short series of tour dates.

The dates will kick off with the band's performance at this year's Sasquatch! Festival in George, WA on May 24th.

The band will also play concerts in Missoula, MT, Boise, ID, Denver, CO, Albuquerque, NM and Dallas, Tx. more on this story



Metallica Members Each Releasing Signature Shoes
The four members of Metallica will each release their very own Vans shoes, which they personalized from the companies existing shoe designs.

The shoes are set to be delivered to stores this month and we were sent over these details about each pair along with photos:

James Hetfield - Inspired by his favorite black boots, James added hex-bolt eyelets and a personal take on the skull and cross-bones, illustrated by Hetfield himself, to "Metallicize" this Vans Sk8-Hi Deconstruct.

Lars Ulrich - Putting a twist on one of Vans' original Classics, Lars updated the Era Laceless with brushed twill materials and a print taken from the diamond plate pattern on his snare drum. He finished his shoe with a Dirty Donny character on the inside heel.

Kirk Hammett - Tying back to a love of surfing and nature, Kirk chose an all-natural upper made of hemp for his collapsible Slip-On. The inside heel is accented with a guitar pick inspired by his Ouija guitar and designed by one of Metallica's favorite artists, Dirty Donny.

Robert Trujillo - Robert grew up wearing Vans as a young skater in Venice Beach, California. For his shoe, he took Aztec calendar artwork, designed by his wife Chloe, which is carved in one of his bass guitars and placed it in blue, on the side of this Escuela. See the photos of the shoes here.




Singled Out: Funeral For A Friend
Today Funeral For A Friend frontman Matt Davies tells us about the track "The Distance" from their brand new album "Conduit," which was released this week. Here is the story:

The Distance (or touring mainland Europe during a boiling summer in a van with no air conditioning).

The title in itself sums up the song quite eloquently. I don't think i've ever tried to capture something so bizarre and translate it into lyrics for a song before. I've put my feelings of death, politics, people etc down to music over the years but for some reason when we got into writing this song the experiences of one tour of mainland Europe about 3 years ago came to mind and for some reason found it's way out into my notebook. I captured the story more in a train of thought way than just basic description so what ended up being the song are strings of sentences that delve into the idea of the road trip we experienced and all the crazy stuff that we did in a mad delirium for the best part of two weeks. All in all, it was fun and brought us together stronger as a band. Especially when we didn't have any air conditioning and one tiny window for air. We spent more time in our underwear that tour than any before or since haha.

Musically, it's slightly different to what would be our usual kind of sound but is in no way less aggressive. If anything the amount of groove we captured is pretty awesome. It's not quite a stoner rock song but a lot of people who've heard it think it sounds like Queens of the Stone Age filtered through a dose of 90's hardcore, which to me is a massive compliment.

Hearing is believing. Now that you know the story behind the song, listen for yourself and check out the video hereand you can pick up a copy of the album right here!




Phoenix Announce Spring Tour Dates
Phoenix have announced the first round of dates for their spring North American tour plans.

The dates iinclude their headlining show at this year's Coachella festival as well as a performance at the Sweetlife Festival.

The initial dates will take the band across the West coast starting on March 28th in Vancouver, BC and includes dates in Washington, Oregon, California, Arizona, and Nevada.

The band is expected to announce additional dates soon, the final announced date takes place in May at the Sweetlife Festival in Columbia, MD.
more on this story



Local H Release Free Download of Rush's 2112 Cover
(hennemusic) Chicago's Local H have recorded a cover of Rush's classic "2112 Overture/The Temples Of Syrinx."

The track is included on the band's brand new EP, "Another February," which was released today.

The group originally issued the song on International Rush Day, December 21, 2012 (21/12).

"In honor of the Winter Solstice, the end of the world according to the Mayans and, uh, Christmas, we humbly offer you this gift of song," wrote Local H. "We've been playing this opus live since last New Year's Eve and decided to record it properly this fall. With the help of Andy Gerber at Million Yen, we've gotten it together just in time for 21/12. Rush on over to click the link below to download it. And in the words of Tiny Tim: "A Merry Christmas to us all; and Neil Peart bless us, every one!" more on this story




The Breeders Expand Reunion Tour Plans With American and UK Dates
The Breeders have expanded their upcoming LSXX Anniversary World Tour with additional dates.

The band has added nine additional North American and four U.K. dates to the trek, in addition to the previously announced European tour dates.

The tour is now set to kick off on March 29th in Brooklyn and the North American dates conclude on May 15th in Atlanta.

The European tour will kick off on May 24th in Barcelona and will conclude with the newly added UK dates with a stop at the ATP Festival on June 21st. more on this story




Bon Scott's Love Interest Cast For Biopic About Late AC/DC Singer
(hennemusic) High Voltage Productions Pty. has announced that Pelham Spong will portray Bon Scott's longtime love interest, Margaret "Silver" Smith, in the upcoming rockumentary trailer for Bon Scott - The Legend of AC/DC.

She will appear opposite actor/singer Rob Liotti, who has been given the nod to portray Scott and has received a throng of international publicity. Spong spent a number of years acting in France before returning to the United States in 2010.

Historic footage shot last month by director J. R. Getches is reported to be in post-production with a tentative release date in March. A source close to the production said that the teaser footage involved "an interview of some type of the late singer..." and that staff members were "elated" about the performance. more on this story




Classic Pink Floyd Interviews For Animals Episode of InTheStudio
InTheStudio celebrates Pink Floyd's 1977 album Animals with classic interviews with David Gilmour, Nick Mason, and Roger Waters.

As Roger Waters reveals to InTheStudio host Redbeard, it was actually during the final stadium concert on the Animals tour when Waters experienced a cathartic climax that would change rock history.

"The last one we did was in Montreal in the Olympic Stadium. Ninety thousand people stretching forever into the distance. Chain link fencing in front of the stage. Kids apparently on some kind of Pavlovian dog trip, screaming their heads off (for the song "Money") from the moment we appeared on stage until the moment we left. Nobody listening.

"And what was important was the demagoguery, the worship of the very 'rich' people...It's the worship of idols, from afar, and I find it distressing...And I experienced 'the wall ' very powerfully on that day." Stream the program here.




Slash Releases Anastasia Music Video
(Classic Rock) Slash has released a video for his track Anastasia, taken from last year's solo album Apocalyptic Love.

The iconic axeman recently responded to suggestions that the song's intro sounds like it was inspired by Bach's Toccata And Fugue In D Minor.

He told the Irish Times: "In this really interesting day and age of social networking, it started with just one person who said it was a Bach thing. I had no idea it sounded like a Bach thing, and then everybody asked me about it.

"I think it is just the style of the arpeggio. Still, there are worse musicians to be compared to than Bach.

"I'm proud of the song – I always liked it. It was one of the songs that came up at the tail-end of the recording when we were in pre-production." Watch the video and read more from Slash




Dream Theater Release Live at Luna Park Trailer
Dream Theater have released a trailer for their upcoming live release, Live at Luna Park, which is coming this spring.

The live collection will be release in May in several formats including 2DVD, Blu-ray, Digital Video, 2DVD/3CD, Blu-ray/3CD, and a deluxe edition (2DVD/Blu-ray/3CD).

The new release was filmed over two nights in South America, "This is without a doubt the closest a viewer at home will come to experiencing a live Dream Theater concert," says guitarist and John Petrucci. "Between the hi-def video, the huge audio mix and the documentary style behind the scenes footage, you are truly transported to the arena and completely immersed in the entire live experience."

"We have the greatest fans on the planet and the people of Argentina are no exception!" adds Petrucci. "The energy and vibe at Luna Park was truly electric and contagious. The perfect synergy between band and audience. We are immensely proud of this DVD and incredibly excited to share it with everyone!" Watch the trailer here.




Jeff Healey Band Rarities Set For Release
Eagle Records have set a February 26th release date for Jeff Healey Band's "House On Fire."

The eleven featured tracks on the album are previously unreleased, recorded between 1992-1998, with some songs culled from the band's sessions for Feel This and Cover To Cover.

The album includes covers of Bob Seger's "We've Got Tonight" and Bruce Springsteen's "Adam Raised A Cain," and originals written by the Jeff Healey Band, such as the instrumental "Bish Bang Boof" and title track "House On Fire." more on this story




Biffy Clyro Top The Album Chart
Biffy Clyro enjoyed a big debut for their new album, Opposites, which topped the UK album charts.

Opposites gave the band their very first No. 1 chart debut after selling 70,000 copies, which was almost double the amount of sales from the album that landed at No. 2.

The album is set to be released to North American fans on March 12th and the band will be supporting the effort stateside for the Coachella festival and the upcoming Muse tour.

The North American dates kick off with Muse in Toronto on April 9th and wrap up on April 26th in Quebec City.

Prior to the American dates, the band will be embarking on a headline arena tour of the UK. more on this story




Built To Spill Kick Off North American Tour and Add Dates
Built To Spill kicked off their 2013 tour plans last night in Victoria, Bc and have just confirmed a series of West Coast dates.

The tour continues tonight in Vancouver, BC and the intial run ends on February 12t in Boise.

The band will return to the road for a date in March and then a series of West coast dates in April that begin on the 24th in Arcata, Ca.

This tour will include the band's new lineup featuring drummer Steve Gere who replaced Scott Plouf and bassist Jason Albertini who replaced Brett Nelson.

They will be joining vocalist/guitarist Doug Martsch, and guitarists Brett Netson and Jim Roth. more on this story




Steve Miller, Jimmie Vaughan Guest On Eric Johnson Special Edition
Eric Johnson has set an April 1st UK release date for the special edition album "Up Close - Another Look".

The album features 12 new Johnson compositions, plus a cover version of the Electric Flag song 'Texas'.

The special edition includes revised and remixed tracks featuring guest appearances from Steve Miller, Jimmie Vaughan, Johnny Lang and Sonny Landreth.

Johnson will be launching UK tour on April 3rd at London's o2 Shepherds Bush Empire. more on this story




The Story Behind The Troggs' Wild Thing
(Classic Rock) The Beatles' Yesterday is far and away the most covered song on the planet. But a spirited case can be made for Wild Thing as very close behind it.

The Troggs were the first to have a UK hit with a cover of it (No.2 in 1966) , but a long list of artists that includes Jimi Hendrix, Fancy, Sam Kinison, X, Prince, Warren Zevon and, most recently, Bruce Springsteen have put their spin on its simple chord progressions and sweaty lyrical sentiments. But the song's writer Chip Taylor (brother of actor Jon Voight) sees what many consider the ultimate distillation of pure, rock'n'roll heat as a more important step in musical history.

"I guess it is the most covered song on the planet," chuckles Taylor. "Particularly if you include all the kids who learned guitar by playing it."

It's easy to see why so many aspiring rockers took to the song as their first lesson. Strummed in a bluesy rock A-major and using a simple chord progression, Wild Thing was that raunchy, goofy ode to unbridled lust that anybody could relate to and that almost anybody could play – all the things that have made Wild Thing perfect cover fodder for major stars and rank amateurs alike.

However Taylor insists that Wild Thing in execution and intent was serious business. "I treat all my songs seriously," he says. "There was an honesty to the song. Sure, when you break it down there's not a lot to it. But when I was writing it, I was treating it as the most serious thing in the universe." more




Van Halen's David Lee Roth Looks Back At FM and Underground Radio
(hennemusic) Van Halen frontman David Lee Roth has offered up a new episode of his video series The Roth Show.

This time out, Roth discusses FM and Underground Radio as well as some of the great stations and disc jockeys from the era.

Meanwhile, fans continue to wait for some kind of news from the Van Halen camp regarding the band's plans for 2013.

The group's "A Different Kind Of Truth" tour will resume with three shows in Japan that were originally scheduled for last fall.

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Aerosmith Dude Really Looks Like A Lady on Idol
(hennemusic) Aerosmith's Steven Tyler made a surprise appearance on American Idol Thursday.
The rocker was a judge on the series for the past two seasons, after which he returned to the band full time last summer.

This time out, Steven was auditioning as a singer for the show…in drag. He introduced himself/herself as Pepper LaBeija, after the famous drag queen featured in the 1990 documentary Paris Is Burning.

Tyler was decked out in a blonde wig, snakeskin miniskirt and fake breasts that honked when squeezed. Check it out here.



My Bloody Valentine Release First New Album in 22 Years
(Classic Rock) My Bloody Valentine have released new album mbv, 22 years after their previous record, Loveless.

The nine-tracker was launched online at the weekend, and is also available for streaming in full online.

Frontman Kevin Shields recently told NME: "I think with this record, people who like us will immediately connect with something. Some people think it's stranger than Loveless. I don't – I feel like it really frees us up. In the bigger picture it's 100% necessary." Read more and check out a song stream.



Wings' Henry McCullough Unlikely To Recover From Brain Damage
(Classic Rock) Former Paul McCartney And Wings guitarist Henry McCullough is unlikely to recover from brain damage he suffered during a heart attack last year, says ex-bandmate Denny Seiwell.

McCullough, who's also known for work with Spooky Tooth, Joe Cocker, Pink Floyd and others, was rushed to hospital in November. Some news outlets mistakenly reported he had died.

Now Seiwell – who left Wings alongside McCullough in 1973 after two years –tells Something Else: "By the time the ambulance got there, because of the lack of oxygen from the period of the heart attack to the first treatment, he suffered some significant brain damage.

"Some of the doctors, according to friends, don't think he's going to have much of a recovery. He's going to need constant care for the rest of his life."

The Irish guitarist and vocalist has not made any significant progress since his condition stabilised after the heart attack, says the drummer. "It's absolutely tragic – I love Henry. He and I were very close." more.




New Slayer Album Delayed By Rick Rubin
(Classic Rock) Slayer guitarist Kerry King says progress on his band's next album is being held up by producer Rick Rubin.

And he's hinted there may be doubts that Jeff Hanneman will contribute to recording sessions.

King's comments come after iconic deskman Rubin suffered a range of critical comments over the past year. In 2011 ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons said he was responsible for delays to the release of their album La Futura, reporting they'd been pushed to "the brink of frustration" and admitting: "The band is wondering, 'Where is this thing? When do we hear it?'"

In the same year Graham Nash accused the producer of having ruined Crosby, Stills and Nash recording sessions. Earlier, Corey Taylor said he'd never work with Rubin again and Muse thanked him for showing them how not to record an album.

Now King tells Eddie Trunk: "The whole hold-up now, as with every record we ever do, it seems like Rick Rubin changes distributors. We're left in limbo until he lands somewhere.

"Realistically we're without a deal right now. We plan on staying with Rick, but he's working out his distribution. When that gets settled we'll be recording."

See what else Rubin is working on and read King's update on Jeff Hanneman's condition here.




Megadeth Finish Recording New Album
(hennemusic) Megadeth have completed the recording of their new album, according to Dave Mustaine.

"Played guitar, sang, & did minor adjustments yesterday to songs 1-4," posted the Megadeth mainman on Friday. "Mixing has begun & you'll have something soon to hear! I'm so pumped!!"

The band have been working on the project with producer Johnny K at Vic's Garage studio in San Marcos, California. more on this story




Stone Sour Set House of Gold & Bones Pt. 2 Release
Stone Sour have announced an April 9th release date for their new album, House of Gold & Bones Pt. 2.

The album is the conclusion to their two part concept album release and was produced by David Bottrill (Tool, Muse) and recorded at Sound Farm Studios just outside of Des Moines, Iowa.

The band will be releasing the first single from the album, , "Do Me A Favor," digitally on February 12th.

The group is currently on tour with dates that conclude on February 17th in Denver, Co at the Fillmore Auditorium.

Stone Sour also announced that they will be performing at the 2013 Revolver Magazine Golden Gods Awards May 2nd in Los Angeles where they are up for three awards including"Best Vocalist," "Album of the Year" for House of Gold & Bones Pt. 1 and "Best Drummer" for Roy Mayorga. more on this story




Noel Gallagher Diagnosed With Tinnitus
(Gibson) Noel Gallagher has been diagnosed with tinnitus. Speaking to U.K radio station Talk Sport, he said: "I went for a brain scan. They did find it… I've got a bizarre ringing in my ears. I think it's just through playing guitar for the last 20 years, so I had to sit in a tube in the hospital.

"The funny thing is they give you these headphones and I chose classical music. It came on and it was the exact music I play to my little kid when he goes to bed. I was in there for 25 minutes. It was horrible".

Commenting on the diagnosis, Gallagher added: "It's an accumulation of many things but I've had a bloody great time doing it all and if I do eventually die of brain disease, it will have been worth it".

Tinnitus is all too common among professional musicians: Pete Townshend, Neal Schon, Anthony Kiedis, Neil Young, Jeff Beck and Eric Clapton also suffer the hearing disorder. more on this story






Jimmie Vaughan Recovering From Heart Attack
(Radio.com) Blues-rock guitarist Jimmie Vaughan suffered a heart attack last month and is now recovering after being discharged from the hospital, his rep confirms to Radio.com.

As a result, he has cancelled his upcoming perform at The Mahindra Blues Festival in Mumbai, India next month.

Vaughan is the older brother of fellow guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan, a founding member of the Fabulous Thunderbirds, a four-time GRAMMY winner, and a regular on Eric Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festival.

A statement from his management reads as follows: "Jimmie Vaughan was admitted to Pomona Hospital Medical Center on January 23rd, 2013 with an acute Myocardial Infraction.

"He had a Coronary Angioplasty (Heart Attack) and Stent placement. He is progressing well after this routine procedure and was discharged from the hospital on January 25th." more.





Metallica Black Album Concert Not Going Down Under
(hennemusic) Metallica will not be performing their 1991 Black album at Australia's Soundwave festival, after all.

Festival boss AJ Maddah confirmed the news via Twitter over the weekend, according to MusicFeeds.com.au.

"Not a rumour. They're not doing Black album," he tweeted, in response to a fan inquiry.

Fans got into a flurry about the possibility of Black Album shows last month after it was revealed that Metallica were bringing a 'snakepit' style barrier/catwalk system for their performances. more on this story




Sebastian Bach Teaming Up With John 5 For New Album
(hennemusic) Sebastian Bach is sharing more details about plans for his next solo album and revealed his is working with John 5 on the effort.

"People really got off on the track 'TunnelVision' from 'Kicking & Screaming'," posted Bach over the weekend. "Well, I am happy to report that once again I will be teaming up w @john5official on new songs for the next album.

"Here we are last Wednesday @revolvermag #GoldenGods talking about working on the new stuff & we are both looking forward to it! Along with Steve Stevens & Jeff George there is going to be some superior axe shredding going on the new disc! Coming your way SOON!" more on this story




The Strokes Releasing New Album Next Month
(Radio.com) The Strokes will release their awaited fifth studio album, Comedown Machine, on March 26.

The album's first single, "All the Time," is "coming soon," according to a press release from the band's label, RCA.

Earlier this week, the band released album track "One Way Trigger" as a free download on Soundcloud, with many critics likening the song's main synth melody to A-ha's '80s favorite, "Take on Me."

The tune was followed by an accompanying stylized lyric sheet, posted to lead singer Julian Casablanca's official website. more on this story




Whitesnake Expand Tour Plans
(hennemusic) Whitesnake have announced more 2013 live dates. The band will play 6 shows in Japan in May, before the previously-announced UK tour with Journey kicks off May 16 on Belfast.

Whitesnake will then head to Europe for concerts starting June 1 in Inzell, Germany, before playing two shows in Russia and the newly-announced June 16 date in Bratislava, Slovakia.

The 2013 tour will feature the return of legendary drummer Tommy Aldridge to the Whitesnake camp, following the recent departure of Brian Tichy. more on this story





Wilko Johnson Says Terminal Cancer Harder On His Friends
(Classic Rock) Wilko Johnson insists his terminal cancer is harder for his friends to deal with than it is for him.

The former Dr Feelgood guitarist announced a run of UK shows after revealing he was dying, and that he'd refused chemotherapy.

Johnson tells the Express And Star: "I think the concerts are all going to have a different kind of ambience – when you realise something is actually the last time you're going to be doing something.

"I'm just hoping against hope that I remain fit. I'm not going on stage sick, or anything like that."

He's previously discussed his feelings of euphoria since doctors gave him the news, and how much he's enjoying living for the moment.

Read about that and his feeling about his farewell concert tickets being scalped here.




Neal Schon Recruited Deen Castronovo and Marco Mendoza For Next Album
(Gibson) Neal Schon's last solo album, The Calling, was released last fall to rave reviews. The veteran Journey guitarist now says he's got another album ready for release – and this one has vocals.

"I'm getting the artwork together so that it will be ready for whenever I decide to put it out," he tells M Music & Musicians , in a just-published interview.

"Journey drummer Deen Castronovo is on drums, and [Thin Lizzy member] Marco Mendoza is on bass. It's more of a power trio album, but musically it's still all over the map, kind of like The Calling is. The material definitely is not all in one niche. Each of us – Marco, Deen and I – sings lead vocals.

"There are also two instrumentals. One is a dedication to Carlos Santana. I did a tribute to Santana on The Calling as well, but this one is more upbeat, and pretty jamming."

Schon is currently on tour with Journey, but he said it's unlikely a new Journey will be coming soon. "I think it's likely the next thing the band will do is work on a song or two for movies, rather than working on a full album," he revealed. "It just seems hard for anyone to get a new full album out there, in the face of downloading and everything else. Doing a little at time seems the better route for us to go right now." more on this story






Newsted Says Metallica Played Riot Makeup Show Despite Losing Money
(Classic Rock) Metallica returned to the scene of their infamous 1992 concert riot because of "integrity and a man's word," says former bassist Jason Newsted.

And he admits he's only just begun to realize just how important those gestures are to the band's army of fans.

The thrash giants were midway through a double-header tour with Guns n'Roses when the drama took place at Montreal's Olympic Stadium. Frontman James Hetfield suffered severe burns and was nearly killed after being caught in a pyro explosion, leading to the band cutting their set short. When GnR also cut their set, with Axl Rose complaining of a sore throat, furious fans took to the streets of the Canadian city and staged a riot. Aftermath scenes showed overturned cars, looted shops and vandalised buildings.

But Newsted wants people to remember that Metallica returned to Montreal the following year to make it up to fans, even though they lost money in the process. more on this story




Kid Rock Teams Up With Harley-Davidson
(Radio.com) Kid Rock has teamed up with motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson for a first-of-its-kind collaboration that includes tour sponsorship, co-branded merchandise and a headlining performance during the company's 110th anniversary celebration over Labor Day weekend in Milwaukee, WI.

"What's not to love about Harley?" said Kid Rock in a press release. "They are the backbone of American culture, the flagship American brand. I am honored and excited to partner with this legendary icon that has helped to define American freedom at home and abroad. In 110 years no one has done a better job of representing America – there is NOTHING that screams America like Harley-Davidson."

The motorcycle manufacturer will be the title sponsor of Kid Rock's upcoming "Rebel Soul" tour, with the partnership also yielding a co-branded merchandise line tagged with the slogan, "I can't hear you over the rumble of my freedom." Concert-specific items will be available on the tour, with an exclusive line going to Harley-Davidson dealerships around America.

Fans will be able to compete to win the opportunity to join Kid Rock and his band onstage at each stop on the tour, with another contest where one national winner will have the chance to win a customized Harley-Davidson motorcycle and ride it onstage at the 110th anniversary show in Wisconsin. more on this story




Motorhead Release Bag-In-Box Wine
(hennemusic) Motorhead have released the world's first Bag-in-Box for the rock 'n' roll world. The band is issuing Sacrifice Shiraz Bag-in-Box; this is modelled to look exactly like a guitar amplifier, this is a unique, iconic packaging from "the world's loudest band" that unreservedly demands its place on the wine shelf.

"Can you decorate your rock'n'roll table with something better? No, I would not believe so," says drummer Mikkey Dee.

"About 60 percent of the wine consumed in Sweden is from Bag-in-Box, which makes Sweden the world's largest consumer of box wine," says Yvonne Wener, head of Brands For Fans. "Naturally we want to provide the rock fans the same range of packaging choice." more on this story





Radiohead and Lance Armstrong Creep Mashup Goes Viral
(Radio.com) Matthis Vlot is a new breed of video editor. Rearranging words from popular film and TV shows, he syncs them to music, creating entirely new experiences known as "supercuts."

In Vlot's latest supercut titled "Creep." he slices and dices Lance Armstrong's now infamous sit-down interview with Oprah Winfrey, rearranging his words to form the lyrics of Radiohead's somber classic.

Take particular notice of Oprah's reactions. Vlot's supercut calls attention to details, like her wincing eye, that viewers of the original interview may have overlooked.

Vlot's "Creep" is merely the latest in a line of supercuts. Set to the music of Lionel Richie's 1984 smash single, Vlot's "Hello" supercut went viral after Vimeo selected it as a "staff pick." Check out the mashup here.





New Red Hot Chili Peppers Single Streaming Online
(Classic Rock) The Red Hot Chili Peppers have released their new single, In Love Dying, via their website and you can hear it online.

It's the latest in a campaign of 18 single releases taken from recording sessions for 2011 album I'm With You, and it's based on a classic Chilis funk vibe.

The band will headline the Coachella Festival in California in April. Listen to the new single here.




Matt Bellamy Explains Muse's Madness
(Radio.com) Although they're a mere trio, the larger-than-life sounds produced by British prog-rockers Muse carry the weight of bands twice their size. An arena rock band to the core, Muse's musical dexterity has earned them comparisons to Rush and Queen.

So it came as a surprise to some when "Madness," the second single from Muse's latest album The 2nd Law, shared more musical DNA with classic Depeche Mode and – dare we say it – dubstep than anything else. "Madness" eschews Muse's usual guitar-driven pomp and complexity for an electronic pulse that's far more minimal and quietly emotional than most anything in the band's extensive catalog.

"I kind of felt like that would be a good direction to go in for us, because everything we normally do is quite overblown and theatrical and all that stuff," Muse frontman Matt Bellamy told Radio.com in an exclusive interview. "I was quite into the minimalism of it. So it was written in that way. It was just me alone in a room, jaded, basically [laughs]. That's how the song emerged."

Apparently Muse's fans were into the song's minimalism as well. "Madness" not only reached No. 1 on Billboard's Rock Songs and Alternative Songs charts, it's nominated for Best Rock Song at this year's GRAMMYs.

"It's one of those rare songs for me where it all just came at once," Bellamy said, noting that the words and music to "Madness" were crafted simultaneously. More from Matt and a stream here.




Black Star Riders Debut New Logo
(hennemusic) Black Star Riders,featuring former members of Thin Lizzy, have unveiled the new band's official logo. The emblem was created by Paul Tippett at Vitamin P Design in the UK.

Black Star Riders are Thin Lizzy alumni Ricky Warwick (vocals), Scott Gorham (guitar), Damon Johnson (guitar), Marco Mendoza (bass) with new addition Jimmy DeGrasso on drums (Alice Cooper, Megadeth, David Lee Roth, Suicidal Tendencies).

The band completed recording their debut album last week, after less than a month in the studio with producer Kevin Shirley. Check out the logo here.




Deep Purple Release New Album Tease Video
(hennemusic) Deep Purple continue to tease the spring release of their first new album in seven years.

In a newly-released video, the band discusses their process for selecting songs for the project.

Deep Purple recorded and mixed the project in Nashville with producer Bob Ezrin.

The band's first album since 2005's "Rapture Of The Deep" is rumored to be the perfect match from the original spirit of 70s Purple and a fresh and modern production.

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Mick Jagger Hints At Rolling Stones Playing Major Festival
(Gibson) The Rolling Stones are likely not finished with their run of live shows, says Mick Jagger. Speaking with New Musical Express, the Stones frontman said,
"Well, I'm just looking at what offers are coming in for this year and sorting them out. I hate announcing things when they're not booked. People are always like, 'Yakety yak, you didn't do that in the end', and I say, 'Well, yeah, we never really announced it!'"

Jagger declined to offer specifics, but when asked if the band might appear at this year's Glastonbury Festival in England, he didn't rule out the possibility. "There are other things in the world, you know, apart from Glastonbury," he said. "But then again, Glastonbury is very important. It seems to be very important to my children -- highlight of their year!"

Later Jagger returned to the topic of Glastonbury, and seemed to drop a broader hint. "Is it going to be rainy on the Sunday [of the festival]?" he asked. "Isn't it nearly always rainy on the Sunday?" The Glastonbury Festival is held annually in Pilton, England. This year the event runs from Wednesday, June 26, through Sunday, June 30. more on this story




Guns N' Roses' Axl Rose Close To Losing Activision Battle?
(hennemusic) Reports out of Los Angeles suggest that Guns N' Roses frontman Axl Rose may be close to losing his $20 million lawsuit against Activision.

According to Billboard.biz, at a summary judgment hearing Thursday, L.A. Superior Court Judge Charles Palmer reportedly indicated that he is inclined to dismiss Rose's suit against Activision Blizzard for fraudulently inducing him into authorizing "Welcome to the Jungle" for use in the popular video game Guitar Hero III. At the conclusion of the hearing, according to an attorney involved in the case, the judge took the matter under submission.

In the lawsuit, Rose claimed he was told during negotiations that the game wouldn't feature any reference to Slash, the guitarist with whom he has been famously feuding for two decades.

The possibly fatal problem for Rose was not moving soon enough on the allegations. more on this story




Black Sabbath Finish Recording Reunion Album
(hennemusic) Black Sabbath bassist Geezer Butler is sharing an update on the band's new album, which is set for release later this year.

"We're finished recording it," Geezer tells That Metal Show's Eddie Trunk. "Tony [Iommi]'s back in England putting down a couple of solos. Then we start mixing it in February, and it'll be out in June."

"The provisional title is '13', unless we can come up with something more constructive."

For the new project, Geezer continues his long-established role as principal lyricist for the band.

"I've written most of the lyrics," he explains. "Ozzy [Osbourne] comes out with the titles and then gives me an inspiration to write the lyrics, I think we've got 16 songs and I've written 14 sets of lyrics." more on this story




The Who and Elvis Costello Team For Cancer Benefit Concert
The Who and Elvis Costello & The Imposters will be teaming up for an intimate benefit concert at the end of the month.

The concert will benefit Teen Cancer America and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and will take place at The Theater at Madison Square Garden on February 28.

According to the announcement, funds raised from the benefit concert will go towards helping hospitals develop units designed to give the very best chance of a positive outcome both physically and emotionally.

In addition to state-of-the-art facilities to keep patients occupied during long stays in hospital, the units will strive to provide an environment where they can meet others in a similar situation, helping to support their transition between teen and adulthood. more on this story



Rob Zombie Covering Grand Funk Railroad Classic On New Album
(hennemusic) Rob Zombie is revealing more details about his forthcoming studio album, "Venomous Rat Regeneration Vendor".

Zombie is offering a partial song list for the project, due April 23, and among the tracks is a cover of Grand Funk Railroad's "We're An American Band."

The first single will be "Dead City Radio And The New Gods Of Super Town", alongside such tracks as "Ging Gang Gong De Do Gong De Laga Raga", "Lucifer Rising" and "Behold! The Pretty Filthy Creatures".

"I think for the first time this new album perfectly merges the old days of White Zombie with the future of what I am doing now," says Rob. more on this story




Led Zeppelin To Receive Lifetime Achievement Award
(hennemusic) Led Zeppelin will receive the inaugural International Lifetime Achievement Award at the Echo Awards in Berlin, Germany on March 21.

Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones will accept the award on behalf of the band; Robert Plant is unable to attend due to a scheduled concert date on the same night in Singapore.

The Echo Awards are presented by the German Phono Academy, the cultural institute of the Federal Association of Music Industry (BVMI). more on this story




Adrenaline Mob Plan Spring Tour and Covers CD Release
Adrenaline Mob have announced the dates for the first of two legs for their North American spring tour.

The tour leg will be kicking off on March 12th in New Haven, CT and will conclude on April 7th in Richmond VA.

The same day that the tour kicks off the group will be releasing their very first covers CD, Coverta, featuring the band's take on classics from Dio, The Doors, Van Halen, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin and more.

Adrenaline Mob features Russell Allen (Symphony X), Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater), and Mike Orlando (Sonic Stomp). more on this story




Rolling Stones, Usher, Kate Upton and Willem Dafoe For Super Bowl Ad
(hennemusic) A Rolling Stones classic is fuelling a new Super Bowl commercial for Mercedes-Benz.

"Sympathy For The Devil" is the musical backdrop to the car company's ad for its new CLA model; the commercial features a star-studded cast that includes Usher, Kate Upton and Willem Dafoe.

Adweek reports Dafoe tries to get a regular guy in a bar to sell his soul for the new vehicle. The offer sends the guy into an elaborate fantasy in which the car raises his social status to the point where he's hitting red carpets with Kate Upton and dancing with Usher. Watch it here.




Sass Jordan and Brian Tichy's S.U.N. New Release Date and Video Stream
Something Unto Nothing (S.U.N.) have set a new release date for their debut album, which was pushed back after Brian Tichy had to undergo surgery for a broken collarbone suffered in a mountain bike accident.

The new supegroup features vocalist Sass Jordan, Tichy on guitar (Whitesnake, Billy Idol, Foreigner, Ozzy), Michael Devin on bass (Whitesnake, Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience, Kenny Wayne Shepherd) and drummer Tommy Stewart (Godsmack, Lo Pro, Everclear, Fuel).

You can get a taste of what is come by checking of the music video for the album's first single "I'm The One" here.




Jimi Hendrix's Engineer Eddie Kramer At Historic Venue For Album Party
(Classic Rock) Jimi Hendrix's engineer Eddie Kramer this week returned to the venue where the Jimi Hendrix Experience played their first-ever UK public show.

Kramer was in London's Bag O'Nails Club for the playback of upcoming Hendrix album People, Hell And Angels. The club was recently refurbished to match the way it looked when the iconic guitarist played there in 1966.

People, Hell And Angels was completed by Kramer, based on recordings Hendrix made in 1970. The engineer describes it as "a fantastic window into his mind."

It's available as a limited-edition Classic Rock Collector's Fan Pack, containing the album in full plus a 116-page magazine and collectable art carts. Photos from the event and more info on the fan pack.




John Fogerty Looks Forward By Looking Back
(Gibson) John Fogerty's forthcoming new album, Wrote a Song for Everyone, offers up re-tooled versions of Creedence Clearwater Revival classics.

Speaking to Rolling Stone, however, mixing engineer Bob Clearmountain says the album looks more forward than backward. "It's no nostalgia fest," he said. "It's like they're new songs."

Fogerty recorded the album with a host of guest artists, including Kid Rock, Foo Fighters and Bob Seger, among others.

The former CCR frontman was adamant about working face-to-face with his high-profile collaborators. "I didn't want to just mail people tracks," he said, "because then everyone would just do 'Proud Mary' like the old record."

Fogerty added that the turmoil resulting from past legal tussles over publishing rights to the CCR back catalog is far behind him.

"There was a long time when a lot of stuff was painful, but that doesn't exist anymore," he said. "I wrote all these songs. They're back home with Daddy, like they should be." Wrote a Song for Everyone is slated for release sometime this fall. more on this story






Anthrax's Metal Alliance Tour Join New England Metal & Hardcore Fest
The Metal Alliance Tour will be making a stop at this year's New England Metal & Hardcore Festival on April 19th at The Palladium in Worcester, MA.

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

Anthrax will be supported by Exodus, High On Fire, Municipal Waste, Holy Grail and an as-yet-named band.

"Holy crap am I so excited about this year's Metal Alliance Tour! It's been a great year and a half for us since Worship Music came out and to cap it off with a Grammy nomination. This is such a perfect lineup. To make this tour even more special, we will be playing our Among The Living record in its entirety. I can't wait to play Horror Of It All! Come on out and worship with us my friends. You do not want to miss this. USA on Hell one more time…" comment's Scott Ian about the bands involvement of the tour. more on this story




Machine Head Frontman Shocked At Music Business Practice
(Classic Rock) Machine Head frontman Robb Flynn says current practices in the record industry aren't helping prop up physical sales.

Admitting he personally prefers digital products for reasons of portability, Flynn reports: "I have a ritual I've done for every release where, first day, I go in and buy our album. I was stunned when I went into Ameoba Records in Hollywood and saw our regular album not on sale, but full price for $16.99.

"It's wrong – you reward the die-hards for going out there and supporting you first day, week, month. It's a thank you. We were pissed, fans weren't stoked. Sh*t like this has to change – it has to – and we as a band (with your help) have to figure out a way around it." More rock news.




Queens Of The Stone Age Deliver Uncut Letter About New Album
(Classic Rock) Queens Of The Stone Age have offered another cryptic hint of the contents of their upcoming album. In a letter to Uncut Magazine the band writes:

"If you find a way to embrace the chaos of life, that chaos can become your biggest inspiration. If the above sentence is true, we were really inspired during the making of this record and realised: the best trick of all is no trick at all. So the songs are very raw and an honest reaction to our last year.

"We can't seem to write about the past or the future 'cause we're so chained to the moment. Almost dialled 999 couple months back, now everything runs like clockwork. So, um… will you come pick us up at the bus station? Hurry we're freezing, Queens of the Stone Age." More rock news.




Heaven Shall Burn Announce New Album and Release Shows
Heaven Shall Burn have set release dates around the world for their new studio album, Veto, and have also lined up three release shows in Europe.

The album will be released in North America on April 30th, Germany/Austria/Switzerland/Norway on April 19th, Australia / New Zealand / Finland on April 26th and the rest of Europe on April 22nd.

The band learned the sad news this week that the man who inspired one of the songs on the album had passed away on Tuesday. Guitarist Maik Weichert had this to say, "Just while finalizing the very last bits and pieces for 'VETO' we received the sad news that Walter Schilling passed away in Saalfeld on January 29th. Walter Schilling was a Protestant pastor and civil rights activist in the GDR (former East Germany). We have a new song called 'Antagonized' that is about him, his life and his work in Thuringia.

"It might seem odd that a band called Heaven Shall Burn is dedicating a song to a man of the church. Still, Schilling was never into clerical dogmas. Instead he encouraged and helped teenagers to pursue new and alternative cultural ideas under the protective shield of his church and youth centre in Braunsdorf near Saalfeld.

"Without Walter Schilling a huge part of the youth culture and music in Thuringia wouldn't have happened - this probably goes for the GDR in general. No matter if you liked Blues, played Punk or Metal, every single person was welcome in Braunsdorf, Saalfeld, Rudolstadt or Jena. Schilling helped establishing what enabled HSB to play music, because most of the clubs and musicians that supported us in our very early days were directly or indirectly involved with Schilling's work. You will not find many theologians of Walter's kind." more on this story




Einherjer Returning To North America For First Time in 12 Years
Einherjer will be playing their first North American tour dates in 12-years in March when they play at the Heathen Crusade Metalfest, SXSW and launch a Canadian tour.

The band will launching their "Dragons Over Vineland" Canadian tour on March 15th in Toronto. The tour will feature support from Panzerfaust.

Days prior to that trek they will be headlining the 2013 Heathen Crusade Metalfest in St. Paul, MN on March 9th and then will be performing a to-be-announced show at this year's South By Southwest festival in Austin, Texas on March 13tj.

The band will be touring in support of their latest studio album, "Norrøn," which was the first new release from the band in eight years.

The album was recorded at Studio Borealis in the band's home town of Haugesund, Norway and produced by vocalist/guitarist Frode Glesnes, the six-track album was mixed and mastered by Matt Hyde (Slayer, Children of Bodom). more on this story




Scar Symmetry's Per Nilsson Joins The Absence
The Absence have recruited Scar Symmetry guitarist Per Nilsson to join their band as they work on their forthcoming EP with James Murphy.

Nilsson had this to say, "Six years ago the guys asked me to do a guest solo for the 'Riders' album and we've been friends ever since. I've followed their career as a fan and when they reached out asking me to join the band, it was a no-brainer.

"I am super excited to be a part of The Absence family; we've been jamming out some new tunes and I feel like we've got some killer stuff in the works for ya! Between Patrick and me, there's gonna be some INSANE guitar shreddin' on the new tunes!"

The band members had the following to say. First Jamie Stewart, "We are super excited to have Per a part of the family. Look forward to great things!"

"Beyond siked to play with such a great friend" - Jeramie Kling

"With Per now a part of The Absence… Boundaries are non-existent" - Patrick Pintavalle

"Per is one of my favorite dudes in the world; I couldn't be more exited to have him in the band!" - Michael Leon




Caspian Plan North American Tour
Caspian will be launching a North American headline tour this month with support along the trek being split between Junius and Native.

The tour will kick off with support from Junius on February 16th in Chapel Hill, NC who will be on the tour until March 1st in Los Angeles.

Native will join the tour the next day in San Diego, CA and will support the remainder of the trek which will conclude on March 24th in Burlington, VT.

Caspian will be touring in support of their latest album, Waking Season, which was released in September. more on this story





Singled Out: Abriosis
Today Abriosis vocalist Alxs Ness tells us about "Crypsis " from their brand new EP "Vessel," which is being released today (Feb 1st). Here is the story:

"Crypsis" was the first song that I contributed lyrics and vocals for in Abriosis. When I joined the band last year, the guys already had the music composed and it was up to me to finalize the vocals. At first I wasn't sure where to take it lyrically, so I started off by mapping out vocal rhythms. After locking down the rhythms and listening to the song countless times, the lyrical content started to materialize; the lyrics are inspired by the way the music makes me feel.

The word crypsis refers to the ability of certain organisms to blend in with their surroundings through methods such as camouflage, transparency and mimicry. In the song I took that idea and created a lyrical world where creatures use the transparency of consciousness to coexist with humans on a certain level. We can minutely sense them but they're always just outside of our perceptions. The overall feel of the song is ominous: the creatures' purpose isn't quite clear but it's definite that we are at their mercy.

Hearing is believing. Now that you know the story behind the song, listen for yourself with a free stream or download here and learn more about the band and the EP right here!




Paramore Tease New Music Video
(Radio.com) Paramore are back with a decided vengeance. Boasting a new line-up featuring Jeremy Davis and Taylor York alongside flame-haired frontwoman Hayley Williams, the three-piece is preparing to launch their fourth studio album, with the self-titled full-length scheduled for release on April 9.

During an exclusive interview with Kevin & Bean, Williams called the making of this new album "really liberating," and dropped hints of what fans can expect from the highly anticipated official video for the album's first single, "Now" (the lyric video has already generated more than 800,000 views).

The clip, which was directed by Daniel "Cloud" Campos and shot in Los Angeles, has a "post-apocalyptic, kinda sci-fi" feel, according to Williams. "It was really cool, just very different for us and active."

Williams also mentioned that the video made her feel like "Leelo," actress Milla Jovovich's notorious character from the 1997 science-fiction movie The Fifth Element, or someone from Jovovich's popular Resident Evil film franchise. The band's label, Fueled by Ramen, expects to release the video the week of February 11. more on this story




Cinderella's Tom Keifer Streaming Song From New Solo Album
(Classic Rock) Cinderella frontman Tom Keifer has released a solo track called The Flower Song and you can listen to it online.

It's taken from his solo album The Way Life Goes, due on April 30, which is described as "ranging from intimate, organic, acoustic tracks to driving hard rock."

Keifer says of The Flower Song: "To me, it's about how unbelievable it is that you're able to find that one person that's perfect for you. It's told from the perspective of a guy but I think it's true for both men and women. When you find that one person, it's a miracle." Check out a stream of the song here.




Eric Clapton Reflects On Cream
(Classic Rock) Eric Clapton says he managed to hold his own in Cream, despite being younger than Ginger Baker and Jack Bruce, and despite coming from a different musical background.

He believes his focus on blues, while his bandmates concentrated on jazz, was no barrier to their communication – because blues music was the source of all three's inspiration.

In a clip from Beware Of Mr Baker, a documentary about the wayward drummer, Clapton says: "I could listen to what Jack was doing and what Ginger was doing, and see a way to get involved in that without being overawed.

"I could hold my own in terms of musical taste and knowledge. Not necessarily from the world that they were coming from, which was more of a jazz world. They had played in it and they could talk that language, which I couldn't. I was of the view that it all came from blues anyway." More including the trailer.




Schmier of Destruction On Wikimetal
German thrash metal band Schmier of Destruction were the featured guests on the latest episode of Wikimetal. They sent over these details.

The bassist and singer Schmier talks about Destruction's 30 year long career, their last album Spiritual Genocide, and his relationship with Brazil.

Schmier also reflects on moments of his career and also have asked for some awesome sounds to be played on Wikimetal. Check out the full episode here or listen to the interview here.




hennemusic Celebrates 3rd Anniversary
Congratulations are in order for Day in Rock news partner hennemusic which celebrates its 3rd anniversary today. They had this to say about the occasion:

Launched in 2010, hennemusic has developed into a reputable worldwide rock news service, with reports regularly shared by music fans around the globe, and featured by trusted media brands, artist websites and dedicated artist fan sites. The music site has published more than 5,200 rock news stories to date, including 2,200 in the past twelve months.

"hennemusic continues to grow, thanks to the ongoing support of music fans around the world," says Bruce Henne. "We're being read by rockers in more than 190 countries!"

A music media veteran, Henne is a pioneer in Canadian network radio. Bruce has helped create, market and build major music brands, including Q107-FM Toronto's Rock Radio Network, The Legends Of Classic Rock, The Ongoing History Of New Music, Corus Entertainment's Deep Sky and ExploreMusic, which he branded.

Henne has worked with virtually every major rock act in the business while producing "Rockline," "Little Steven's Underground Garage," and other U.S.-based shows for Canadians, creating radio series like "All Access" and "One On One," and producing more than 400 music specials, world album premieres and live broadcast events.