Tim Abrigg Jr. Rants/Raves:: Today's Day in Rock News!

Tim Abrigg Jr. Rants/Raves:: Today's Day in Rock News!: Today's Day in Rock Scott Weiland Changes Direction With New Album (Classic Rock) Scott Weiland says his new project has mor...

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Scott Weiland Changes Direction With New Album
(Classic Rock) Scott Weiland says his new project has more of an 'indie rock' feel than anything he's worked on in the past. The former Stone Temple Pilots and Velvet Revolver frontman's new group is called Scott Weiland And The Wildabouts and he says it will appeal to fans who found some of his solo work, like 2008's Happy In Galoshes, a little too experimental for their taste.

The band release debut album Blaster on March 31 via Softdrive Records following a successful PledgeMusic campaign. And the singer says he's not been this happy musically since STP's debut album Core.

Weiland tells Mitch Lafon: "It's different than both of the rock bands I've been in. It's more of a garage rock, indie rock kind of feel. But it is still rock. So I think STP fans and Velvet Revolver fans who weren't into an experimental record like Happy In Galoshes will definitely be into this because it's got some big riffs on it." Read more here.




Black Sabbath's Geezer Butler Posts Message About Arrest
Black Sabbath bass player Geezer Butler on Thursday (Jan. 29) made his first public comments since he was arrested after an alleged bar fight in Death Valley on Tuesday (Jan. 27).

As previously reported, Butler was arrested on charges of misdemeanor assault, public intoxication and vandalism after he reportedly got into an altercation at the Corkscrew Saloon where an unnamed individual was "struck" and a window was broken, according to a statement issued by the Inyo County Sheriff's department.

On Thursday, Butler acknowledged the arrest with two posts on his Facebook page. In one post he told fans "Thx for your messages & support following the unfortunate altercation that occurred."

Five hours later he posted a picture himself in the desert under the heading of "After that little distraction" showing him sitting on a platform in front of ghostly figure holding a bicycle. See the photo here.

Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne also posted a message of support for Butler on his Facebook page on Thursday. Osbourne wrote, "Sending my love and support to Geezer Butler. I'm here if you need me."




Tom Petty Has No Hard Feelings For Sam Smith
Tom Petty has released a statement about the recent decision to add him and Jeff Lynne to the songwriting credits of Sam Smith's Grammy nominated track "Stay With Me" because of its similarity to Petty's hit "I Won't Back Down."

Petty had the following to say about the situation, "About the Sam Smith thing. Let me say I have never had any hard feelings toward Sam. All my years of songwriting have shown me these things can happen.

"Most times you catch it before it gets out the studio door but in this case it got by. Sam's people were very understanding of our predicament and we easily came to an agreement.

"The word lawsuit was never even said and was never my intention. And no more was to be said about it. How it got out to the press is beyond Sam or myself.

"Sam did the right thing and I have thought no more about this. A musical accident no more no less. In these times we live in this is hardly news. I wish Sam all the best for his ongoing career. Peace and love to all."



ZZ Top and Weezer To Do Live TV Mash-Up
(hennemusic) ZZ Top will staging an unusual performance with Weezer as ABC-TV's Jimmy Kimmel Live for the debut installment of the late night talk show's Mash-Up Mondays on February 2.

Billed as "Wee-Z Top", the Texas trio - who just played on the show this week - will join the alternative rockers for the first edition of a month-long series on the late night program.

Other musical pairings in February include Morris Day and The Time (featured in Prince's film Purple Rain) and HAIM (Feb. 9), and Aloe Blacc and Blackstreet (Feb 16). Read more here.



Nick Menza Sidesteps Megadeth Reunion Question
(Classic Rock) Former Megadeth drummer Nick Menza has stopped short of confirming or denying whether he's returning to the band. Speculation has been rife in recent weeks that the sticksman, who left in 1998 after a five-album stint in Dave Mustaine's outfit, could be set to come back after the departures of Shawn Drover and Chris Broderick in November.

Megadeth last month released a teaser video showing bassist David Ellefson playing in their studio with an unidentified drummer. He and Menza attended the NAMM industry show in California at the weekend.

But Menza would only tell Examiner.com: "It'll be final when it's final," then asked: "What do you think are the chances of me coming back?" Read more here.




Slipknot Star Frustrated By Censorship
(TeamRock Radio) Slipknot percussionist Chris Fehn says he's tired of his band's lyrics being censored for broadcast on TV and radio. He believes the laws that make it necessary for acts to provide alternative versions of strongly-worded songs are only in place because control freaks want them to be.

And he argues there are much worse things in the world than heavy language. Fehn tells Rock Sins: "There's so many songs that they'll blip. I hate that. The worst is when they redo it with a different word.

"I'm like, 'Come on, man.' Even with the internet and how exposed kids are to things in this world? To me it's the least of the problems we have.

"But I guess that's the world we live in. It's just control - people want control." Read more here.




Michael Sweet Wanted To Help Sebastian Bach Reclaim Skid Row Glory
(Classic Rock) Michael Sweet says he was tapped to produce a Sebastian Bach solo album that would have gone back to the sound of early Skid Row. The Stryper frontman claims Bach got in touch over an idea to work on the album, which Sweet would have co-written and produced - only for the former Skid Row frontman to go silent on the issue.

Sweet was asked for his view on Bach's comments that he has 800,000 Facebook followers yet sold only 5000 copies of his latest album Give 'Em Hell in the first week.

And according to Sweet, the answer is simple - Bach's fans want the Sebastian of old. He adds: "This isn't a bash against Sebastian at all, it's just my opinion. I think people wanna hear Sebastian of old. They wanna hear the Skid Row Sebastian. They wanna hear the hits. And he's giving them modern rock.

"It's a good album, it's a good-sounding album, but it's not the glory days." He also discussed the album project. Read about that here.




Ringo Starr Reveals New Album Details and Tour Dates
(Radio.com) 2014 was a great year for Ringo Starr--he reunited with his former Beatles bandmate Paul McCartney at the 56th Annual Grammys and again a few days later at the Grammys Beatles tribute The Night That Changed America: A Grammy Salute. He also had an exhibit in his honor at the Grammy museum, and and usual, he toured with his latest All-Starr Band.

And 2015 looks to be just as busy for the legendary drummer: he's going to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his solo work, he's just announced his latest album, Postcards From Paradise and he's going to be hitting the road again.

Postcards from Paradise sees him working with the above-mentioned All-Starr Band who he's been touring with. That includes Toto guitarist Steve Lukather, guitarist Todd Rundgren, founding Santana keyboardist/singer Gregg Rolie, Mr. Mister bassist Richard Page, drummer Gregg Bissonette and former All-Starr and multi-instrumentalist Warren Ham.

Read more including tour dates here.




Behemoth Releasing Their Official Biography
(TeamRock Radio) Polish death metal outfit Behemoth will release their official biography Devil's Conquistadors next month, they've confirmed. The 490-page book, which was written by Lukasz Dunaj, will launch on February 24 via Metal Blade Records and details the rise of the band in their homeland, their influences and will also feature interviews, photos and printed lyric sheets.

Frontman Adam 'Nergal' Darski, who will release his memoirs Confessions Of A Heretic: The Sacred And Profane, Behemoth And Beyond in English on March 19, reveals in the book that he bought his first guitar with money he was given for his first communion.

He says: "The first communion was a very important moment for me. I know this sounds ridiculous, but it's true. Of course, not as a religious experience - I didn't understand anything and couldn't care less. Same as all the other kids. " Read more here.




Limp Bizkit's Wes Borland Slams Upcoming Shiprocked Cruise
(TeamRock Radio) Limp Bizkit guitarist Wes Borland has released an Instagram rant about the band's cruising festival appearance next week. They're headlining the 2015 edition of Shiprocked, which sets sail from Miami on February 2 and arrives at the Bahamas on February 6.

But Borland isn't looking forward to the experience. He says: "Can't wait to see some roided-out, tribal-tattooed, spray-tanned, Jell-O shot-filled bohunks do their best drunk MMA impressions in the top-deck moshpit.

"Whenever we aren't on stage I'll be curled up foetal-position in my cabin, palms up, while I desperately cling to the last week of my thirties as it slips through my hooked fingers." He had more to say. Read it here.




Genesis Film Shows Why Band Won't Reunite Says Hackett
(TeamRock Radio) Steve Hackett believes the reason why a Genesis reunion can't take place is clear to see from the 2014 band documentary Together And Apart. In October he appeared alongside Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, Mike Rutherford and Tony Banks in a BBC film that he described as "biased."

Now Hackett tells ABC News Radio: "When people ask me, 'Is there going to be reformation?' I say, 'Look at the documentary and you'll get an idea of the priorities that come across.' I think it's probably extremely unlikely."

But he'd still take part if the opportunity arose, he adds: "It's been decades I've been saying, 'Call me if you need me.' My door is open to that, certainly." Read more here.




Damn Yankees Celebrate 25th Anniversary In The Studio
A special online edition of the syndicated radio show In The Studio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the 25th anniversary of supergroup Damn Yankees with Tommy Shaw, Jack Blades, Michael Cartellone, and Ted Nugent. The show sent over these details:

The Nineties' first supergroup actually lived up to the hype. The Damn Yankee's self-titled debut sold a whopping two million copies off the backs of melodic rockers "Coming of Age", "Runaway", "Come Again" and the soaring # 3 hit single "High Enough". But how did these guys come together in the first place?

Each frontman had a successful rock pedigree: Motor City MadmanTed Nugent, STYX singer/songwriter/ guitarist Tommy Shaw, and Night Ranger singer/songwriter/bass player Jack Blades. InTheStudio host Redbeard gets the full story on how the group united and spent the next five years making records and touring constantly. It was a unique musical partnership that worked both personally and professionally.

Jack Blades : "When Tommy & I first started singing, suddenly we realized that we were phrasing the same, harmonizing, coming up with the same vocal ideas. It was if we had sung together for ten years."

Tommy Shaw: "The first day of recording Nugent announced that he was taking all of us to hunt bear. So the next morning we showed up bare…naked."

Ted Nugent: "I'm from the Motor City. We're the 'Murder Capital of America' not because we're more violent. It's because we're better shots."

Stream the episode here.




The Poodles Streaming First Song From New Album
(Classic Rock) Swedish rocker The Poodles will launch their sixth album in March, they've confirmed. Titled Devil In The Details, it will be released on March 25 via Gain Music and will be the follow-up to 2013's Tour De Force.

They have also released an online stream of a song called "The Greatest" - the first track from the record which the band describe as "rock 'n' roll straight up, no chaser."

They parted ways with bassist Pontus Egberg last year. He left to join King Diamond as a permanent member after touring with the Danish mainman. The band unveiled their new bass player Johan Flodquist earlier this month.

Check out the new song here.




Y&T Crowdfunding Career Spanning Documentary
(Classic Rock) Y&T have launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund the making of a career-spanning documentary. And mainman Dave Meniketti hopes fans will step up so the band can tell their own story their own way.

The movie is to be built out of the hundreds of hours of personal footage shot over the years. It's set to cover their earliest days of rehearsing in Leonard Haze's grandmother's house, then move through the first two albums, touring with Journey, Boston and Queen, to their big breaks with AC/DC, Ozzy Osbourne and Dio.

It's also designed to be a tribute to bassist Phil Kennemore, who died in 2011. Meniketti says: "In the past we'd ask a record company or a big corporation for funding - and in exchange, sign away our rights and artistic control." Read more here.




Black Crowes Singer Says Breakup Reasons Were Complicated
(hennemusic) Singer Chris Robinson says the breakup of The Black Crowes is "complicated." Brother and guitarist Rich Robinson broke the news on January 15, saying "It is with great disappointment and regret that after having the privilege of writing and performing the music of The Black Crowes over the last 24 years, I find myself in the position of saying that the band has broken up."

The guitarist also revealed details regarding some controversy within the group that fueled his decision not to return. "I love my brother and respect his talent," he noted, "but his present demand that I must give up my equal share of the band and that our drummer for 28 years and original partner, Steve Gorman, relinquish 100% of his share, reducing him to a salaried employee, is not something I could agree to."

Now, Chris responds to the official statement, telling Billboard "it's way more complicated than Rich's public outburst" while declining to elaborate. "I'm going to keep my personal, private family business personal and private," he says, "and I'll focus on all the other things that are important. The ideas, I think, are more important than the drama."

"I have too much stuff going on that's progressive and positive to dig through sordid family history and stuff. I don't think that's interesting at all -- maybe in a tabloid kind of culture we live in, but I've never been part of that. I've never dealt with my personal, private life in a public forum, so I'm not going to drag myself though the mire now." Read more here.




Crippled Black Phoenix Members Reveal New Prog Band VLY
(Prog) Crippled Black Phoenix members Karl Demata and Chris Heilmann have unveiled their new prog band VLY. They've launched a stream of their track Circles, taken from upcoming debut album.

The guitarist and bassist are joined by vocalist Keith Gladysz (Diet Kong, Typical Reptiles), keyboardist Elisa Montaldo (Il Tempio Delle Clessidre) and drummer Mattias Olsson (Anglagard, White Willow, Necromonkey).

The band describe themselves as "a multifaceted beast where suggestions from progressive rock, classic rock and folk meet with early-Floydian psychedelia, intimate pop melodies, massive walls of epic guitar riffage, post-classical, post-rock and electronic music."




Linkin Park, Rob Zombie and Weezer Lead Loudwire Music Festival
Linkin Park, Rob Zombie and Weezer have been announced as the headliners for the very first Loudwire Music Festival which will be taking place this summer.

Organizer have also revealed that the three-day festival will also feature performances from Halestorm, A Day to Remember and Hinder, with more acts still to be announced.

The multi-stage rock festival is scheduled to take place on Friday, June 26, Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28 festival at Jam Ranch in Grand Junction, CO.

Halestorm's Lzzy Hale had this to say about being added to the lineup, "The boys and I are so stoked to be coming to Colorado for Loudwire Music Festival! This is one of the events we are looking forward to the most this summer! Prepare yourself for some crazy new tunes and your faces to be melted into your shoes!"





Magma Announce North American Tour
(Prog) Magma have announced a tour of North America to take place before they visit the UK. Christian Vander and co will perform eight shows in the US and Canada in April.

The journey is followed by appearances at Manchester's RNCM on May 7 and London's Cadogan Hall on May 8. It's part of the French collective's 45th anniversary celebrations, which continues into 2015.

Vander says: "Magma is happy to return to the United States - we know you are passionate, respectful and curious about music. We find you generous and open. It will be a joy for us to see you this year." See the dates here.





Stone Temple Pilots Streaming 'High Rise' Demos
(hennemusic) Stone Temple Pilots guitarist Dean DeLeo has posted online stream ofemos from the band's 2013 EP "High Rise." The project delivered the debut of singer Chester Bennington from Linkin Park, who joined the band after original frontman Scott Weiland was fired in February of 2013, leading to a series of public statements and lawsuits by both parties.

DeLeo has posted material from demos for three tracks on the EP, including "Out Of Time", "Cry Cry" and "Same On The Inside", as well as "The Hotel On The Hill."

"Howdy ya'll," says DeLeo. "I thought I'd start these new 'memo:demos' to share some audio clips that are recorded on my phone which include anything from alternate solos, songs from the point in time of their conception and some new ditties. Have fun and stay tuned for more."

"High Rise" debuted at No. 24 on the US Billboard 200 chart following first week sales of 12,000 copies. Check out the demos here.




Classic Albums Selling More Than New Albums
(Classic Rock) 'Old' albums outsold current releases on iTunes in America last year, new figures reveal. Music Business Worldwide reports that it is the first time catalogue releases have sold more than new albums over the course of a full year - with a previous victory for old records during one month in 2012 considered a "momentary blip."

One example of a catalogue album selling well is Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers' Greatest Hits - originally released in 1993 - which is currently in the iTunes top 100 albums chart.

Industry expert Tim Ingham says it's a worrying trend for the music business and adds that it's only a matter of time before catalogue records outsell new releases on physical formats such as CD and vinyl as well as online.

He says: "Such data asks two very clear questions of record labels: are people merely starting to consume their new music on streaming services rather than buying it in album form? Or are they increasingly less impressed with the new album releases that arrive year-in, year-out?" Read more here.


Lemmy Feels Vindicated By Motorhead's Grammy Nomination
(Classic Rock) Lemmy Kilmister says that Motorhead's 2015 Grammy nomination gives him the chance to stick his middle finger up that those who said he'd be dead by now.

Motorhead are nominated in the Best Metal Performance category for their track Heartbreaker, taken from latest album Aftershock. And while the frontman is more interested in what the fans think than what Grammy judges ultimately decide, he does admit the nomination validates his decision to keep going after his recent health problems.

On the Grammy nomination, Lemmy tells Mitch Lafon: "It's always nice to stick your middle finger up and say, 'Ha ha you bastards, six months to live ey?'

"I don't see why you should stop when it gives you so much pleasure." Read more here.




Alice Cooper Announces Austin City Limits Live PPV Broadcast
(hennemusic) Alice Cooper is offering his upcoming Austin City Limits Live concert to fans as a pay-per-view event. Cooper's February 12 show at The Moody Theater in Austin will be presented via cable TV and streamed online.

The Austin date is part of Cooper's Raise The Dead Tour; the rocker will rejoin Motley Crue as the opening guest on the North American run of their farewell tour this year.

The concert will be available at 9 PM ET; more details regarding delivery channels will be issued soon. In the meantime, fans can watch the promotion video for the event here.




Randy Bachman Streams New Song With Peter Frampton
(hennemusic) Randy Bachman has released an audio stream of the title track to his upcoming album, "Heavy Blues", which sees him team up with Peter Frampton.

Due April 13 (April 14 in North America), Bachman is joined by guests including Neil Young, Joe Bonamassa, Robert Randolph and the late Jeff Healey for the project, alongside new band members Anna Ruddick on bass and Dale Anne Brendon on drums.

"Heavy Blues" is produced by Kevin Shirley (Iron Maiden, Rush, Led Zeppelin), who Bachman says influenced the heaviness of his latest solo album.

"I've known Kevin for many years and watched his producer credits grow to include many rock legends," explains Bachman. "I knew that he could push me past my limit, pull me onto new paths and direct me down new roads."




Barren Earth Reveal First Song With New Singer
(Prog) Barren Earth have released a stream of On Lonely Towers, the title track from their upcoming third album - and their first song revealed with vocalist Jon Aldara.

He replaced Mikki Koramaki, who'd fronted the Finnish prog metal outfit for 2010 debut Curse Of The Red River and 2012 follow-up The Devil's Resolve.

Bassist Olli-Pekka Laine says: "During the writing process we did many things from a totally new perspective. Many other things changed too - new production team, new frontman, new record label; the list goes on."

He adds of the track: "Instead of putting out a song in a typical verse-chorus form, we thought this three-piece boulder would represent the album better. It demands some concentration from the listener - but patience is rewarded in the end."




Angels & Airwaves Release 'Tunnels' Video
(Radio.com) In an interview with Radio.com, Angels & Airwaves frontman Tom DeLonge proclaimed "Tunnels" the song he's most proud of writing, next to "The Adventure," the band's first big hit, and blink-182's "I Miss You."

In the video, released Thursday (Jan. 29), the band performs in what appears to be someone's living room with a huge video screen behind them displaying spacey environments, while clips of The Dream Walker anime film are interspersed.

"The Dream Walker is a multi-year project launching with the album and a short anime film, followed by graphic novels, a novel, then a feature film," explained DeLonge. A full-length feature film is also in pre-production, as well as a novelization and various iconic collectibles and attire, because what would a film be without merchandising?

"It's gonna be a long process but there will be stuff rolling out continuously. The book is so good. The novel is f–king awesome. It's a New York Times best-selling author writing it."




Neil Young Announces Appearance On The Tonight Show
(hennemusic) Neil Young has announced that he will appear as a guest and performer on NBC-TV's The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon next Tuesday, February 3.

The episode marks Young's return to the program following his spring performance with Jack White, where the guitarist recorded a live record on the show.

Fallon's Tonight Show will be broadcast from Los Angeles next week following a special post-Super Bowl edition on Sunday from Phoenix, Arizona.

Tim Abrigg Jr. Rants/Raves:: Today's Day in Rock News!

Tim Abrigg Jr. Rants/Raves:: Today's Day in Rock News!: Today's Day in Rock Black Sabbath's Geezer Butler Arrested After Bar Fight Black Sabbath bass player Geezer Butler was rep...

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Black Sabbath's Geezer Butler Arrested After Bar Fight
Black Sabbath bass player Geezer Butler was reportedly arrested on charges of misdemeanor assault, public intoxication and vandalism after he was allegedly in a bar fight in Death Valley, Ca on Tuesday (Jan. 27).

A man matching the description of the metal legend, real name Terence Michael Butler, reportedly got into an altercation at the Corkscrew Saloon where an unnamed individual was "struck" and a window was broken, according to a statement issued by the Inyo County Sheriff's department.

The department's Public Information Officer Carma Roper released the following details, "Shortly after midnight on January 27th Sheriff's Dispatch received a call regarding a verbal and physical altercation that took place at the Corkscrew Saloon located at the Furnace Creek Ranch property in Death Valley National Park.

"After the Inyo County Sheriff's Deputy arrived on scene and interviewed witnesses it was determined that there had been an argument that escalated into a physical confrontation - resulting in an individual being struck, and a broken window.

"Terence Michael Butler a 65-year old man from Beverly Hills, CA was arrested for misdemeanor assault, public intoxication and vandalism. Butler was booked into the Inyo County Jail and released after detox and citation."

As you can see from the statement, while the age and name of the person arrested does match the Black Sabbath star, the department did not confirm that it was indeed Geezer Butler, who lists his Los Angeles area residence as being in Hollywood, Ca on his Twitter account.

At press time there was no word from Geezer or the Black Sabbath camp about the arrest and his last social media posts confirmed that he was in Southern California earlier this week.




Zakk Wylde Open To Reuniting With Ozzy Osbourne
(Classic Rock) Zakk Wylde says he would play with Ozzy Osbourne again if he was asked. Osbourne recruited the axeman in 1987 to replace Jake E. Lee - a move which sparked a long and fruitful relationship between the pair.

And Wylde says the love he has for the rock icon and his manager and wife Sharon, who he calls "mom," is "unconditional." When asked if he would be open to recording or playing live with Osbourne again, the Black Label Society man tells My Global Mind:

"Yeah, I mean, for whatever. If Ozzy needs me to go and pick up some milk and eggs and take them to the house I will do it. That's how my relationship is with Oz and mom.

"My love for them is unconditional so whatever they need me to do I will do it." Read more here.




Fall Out Boy Score Another No. 1 Album
Fall Out Boy have scored their third No. 1 album after their new studio effort, "American Beauty/American Psycho," debuted in the top spot on the Billboard 200 album chart.

"American Beauty/American Psycho," topped the album chart after it sold over 218,000 copies in the United States during its first week in stores and at digital retailers following its released on January 20th.

The album also went to No. 1 on the iTunes chart in 22 countries and topped the albums charts in Canada and Japan. It also scored Top 5 debuts in the UK and Australia.

The band will be hitting the road in support of the album with Wiz Khalifa for the Boys of Zummer tour, which is scheduled to kick off on June 10th in Camden, NJ and conclude on August 10th in Los Angeles at the Hollywood Bowl. See the tour dates here.



L7 Announce First Reunion Shows
(TeamRock Radio) L7 have confirmed their mooted reunion and launched a crowdfunding campaign for an upcoming documentary. The all-girl grunge band said late last year that they needed the help of their fans to launch a comeback and they have now confirmed two European festival dates with further shows promised.

And they have also given more details on their documentary, L7: Pretend We're Dead. They have opened a Kickstarter fund in the hope of raising $97,000 by February 26.

The film is to be directed by Sarah Price and promises to take fans "on an all-access journey into the 1990s grunge movement that took the world by storm, and the band that helped define it as the genre of a generation."

So far, June appearances at Spain's Azkena Rock Festival and Hellfest in France have been confirmed, with more to follow. Read more here.




Blink-182's Hoppus Addresses Travis Barker Replacement Claim
(TeamRock Radio) Blink-182's Mark Hoppus has played down Tom DeLonge's claim that the pair spent a week discussing the replacement of Travis Barker. The suggestion appeared as part of the public meltdown since DeLonge distanced himself from the band, with an official statement - which he disagreed with - stating that he "didn't want to participate in any Blink projects indefinitely."

In a tweet this week, quickly removed, DeLonge said: "A year ago Mark and I spent a week on the phone with managers debating parting with Travis. Don't pretend there isn't more to this story."

Now Hoppus confirms there was a conversation after Blink toured Australia without Barker - but says it grew out of the drummer's continued problems with flying after the 2009 plane crash that nearly killed him.

Hoppus tells AltPress: "Travis didn't go on that tour, which was a possibility that we'd known about from day one. When we agreed to tour Travis said, 'If it gets to the day and I'm not ready, we need a backup plan.'"

When Barker told his bandmates he couldn't fly, they brought in Brooks Wackerman as a stand-in. But that led to an argument between Barker and the band's Australian rep.

"The promoter thought Travis has never intended to come to Australia, and felt he'd been duped," says Hoppus. "That wasn't the case. After the tour, Tom was very upset about being put in that position. Tom was having these calls, 'Can we replace Travis? Can we do whatever?' But it was really just Tom blowing off steam. I listened, commiserated, called my manager and said, 'Tom's upset right now - he's talking about trying to replace Travis, but that's not going to happen.'

"Sure enough, after a month Tom was like, 'I was just angry. It was a bad situation. Of course I don't want to kick Travis out the band.'" Read more here.




Ellefson On Why He Thinks Megadeth Members Quit
(Classic Rock) Megadeth bassist David Ellefson believes former bandmates Chris Broderick and Shawn Drover left because they were facing nearly a year without playing live.

The guitarist and drummer will this weekend start recording with their as-yet untitled band, featuring former Scar The Martyr singer Henry Derek Bonner and Shadows Fall's Matt Bachand on bass.

Ellefson tells Loud: "I think Shawn should be remembered for some great stuff - the guy bleeds metal, that's for sure. But I think, with him, knowing there was going to be almost a year off the road; I sensed he wanted to get moving on some other things."

The bassist admits there seemed to be little advance notice of the lineup change, but thinks he knows why. "While we were on the road I didn't see any chinks in the armour," he says. "But once you get off the road, seeing there was going to be a year off - actually a little more, maybe - that's a long time." Read more here.



Devin Townsend Disowns Collaboration With Nickelback Producers
(Prog) Devin Townsend says he wishes he'd never collaborated with Nickelback's producers - and has vowed never to let the resulting track see the light of day.

The prog icon wrote a song with the people behind Nickelback, Daughtry and a string of American Idol winners - but he says he'll never release it as he finds it "f***ing disgusting."

After the release of his Z2 album, Townsend was encouraged to write with others, but he has described the experience as "everything I dislike about music."

Townsend tells Decibel: "I went to LA and I wrote with a team who produced all the Nickelback stuff recently, Daughtry, all the American Idol people who win, and I wrote a song with them.

"And I hate it in such a way that is hard for me to quantify. I really like the guys, I think they're really talented, but I told them yesterday or the day before that I'm not putting it out. There's no f***ing way I'm putting it out.

"I can't spend 25 years sticking to my guns to try and sell people this. It's everything I dislike about music, with my voice on it. It's f***ing disgusting. It's not their fault, but with my voice on it, it's just not where I'm at." Read more here.




Incubus Set to Premiere New Single 'Absolution Calling'
(Radio.com) After premiering the first single from their new upcoming EP at the KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas last month, Incubus are back with another single that they will be debuting on KROQ on February 5.

The new track, "Absolution Calling," will hit the radio at 7:30am PST on the Kevin and Bean Show. This follows the previously shared song, "Trust Fall." The band will be on air for the debut.

Incubus was once a record-releasing juggernaut, finding much success on albums Make Yourself in 1999 and Morning View in 2001. Recent years have seen albums become more scarce from the California natives, with their last coming in 2011, titled If Not Now, When? Read more here.



Amon Amarth Begin Work On New Album
(TeamRock Radio) Amon Amarth have started writing material for their 10th album, bassist Ted Lundstrom has reported. The Swedish outfit intend to concentrate on the follow-up to 2013's Deceiver Of The Gods as soon as they've completed their current tour, and hope to set a release date in early 2016.

Lundstrom tells Metal Recusants in a new video interview: "We started very recently - we have some ideas for songs and lyrics, but we haven't sat down to put it together yet.

"After this tour that will be our main focus. Hopefully we can record it after the summer. I hope we can release it early next year, but it depends on so many factors. But early next year would be our plan."

Watch the full interview here.



Iron Maiden's Dave Murray Launching Signature Fender Guitar Line
(hennemusic) Iron Maiden guitarist Dave Murray has announced that he has teamed with Fender to launch his own signature guitar line as part of the company's Artist Series.

The Dave Murray California Series Stratocaster is inspired by Murray's longtime onstage go-to guitar, combining Strat tradition with three Seymour Duncan humbucking pickups, the fast feel of a compound-radius fingerboard, and the high performance reliability of a Floyd Rose bridge and nut.

The new guitar line will be available starting February 17. Murray and Iron Maiden have been off the road since they wrapped up their Maiden England world tour last summer. Read more here.



Slash Jams With Richie Sambora, Jeff 'Skunk' Baxter For Les Paul Award
(hennemusic) Slash was honored with the Les Paul Award at the 30th annual NAMM Technical Excellence & Creativity (TEC) Awards in Anaheim, California on January 24.

The guitarist was joined for a performance by Richie Sambora, Orianthi and Jeff "Skunk" Baxter and video of the jam has been posted online. The event honors individuals and companies for outstanding achievement in professional audio technology and production.

The Les Paul Award, named for the revolutionary inventor and esteemed musician, honors individuals or institutions that have set the highest standards of excellence in the creative application of audio and music technology.

Instituted in 1991, the honor has been awarded to influential artists including Pete Townshend, Paul McCartney, Brian Wilson, Stevie Wonder, Neil Young, Todd Rundgren and Peter Gabriel. Watch the video of Slash's jam here.



Avenged Sevenfold Have Left Metalcore Behind
(TeamRock Radio) Avenged Sevenfold have left their early metalcore sound behind for good, insists frontman M Shadows. And he says none of the band have anything to do with the genre that was the staple of 2001 debut Sounding The Seventh Trumpet.

Shadows tells the Jakarta Post: "The metalcore has been left behind. It's not something that any of us find enjoyment in listening to, so it's not the direction we would write songs in.

"I wouldn't hold my breath for a comeback. We are ever-evolving and never repeat ourselves. I want to stay away from trends and do what we want to do musically." Read more here.




VoiVod Streaming New Song 'We Are Connected'
(Prog) Veteran Canadian outfit VoiVod have launched a stream of We Are Connected. The track is one half of a split release with Century Media labelmates At The Gates which will be issued on April 7 on 7-inch vinyl. It will be made available directly through the label's store.

Voivod, who recruited Dominic 'Rocky' Laroche last year to replace outgoing bassist Yves 'Blacky' Theriault, began their Through Space And Grind tour across North America earlier this week.

The shows also feature Napalm Death, Exhumed, Iron Reagan and Black Crown Initiate. Ringworm, Dayglo Abortions and Phobia will also hook up with the main artists for select shows. Stream the new song here.



Zac Brown Band Release 'Live From The Artists Den' Preview
(Radio.com) Zac Brown Band will launch the ninth season of Live From the Artists Den this Friday (Jan. 30) on PBS, and days before the show airs, fans can get a preview.

In the newly released video, Zac Brown Band perform their poignant song "Free," which segues effortlessly into an impressive cover of Van Morrison's "Into the Mystic." In the clip, violinist Jimmy De Martini appears alone on the stage before the curtain lifts to reveal the rest of the band.

Frontman Zac Brown, dressed in a top hat, kicks off the first verse as the crowd at Forest Hills Stadium sing along word for word. The band's performance was taped from their concert at Forest Hills Stadium in Queens, New York and their set list includes hits like "Jump Right In," "Colder Weather" and "Day for the Dead."

Live From the Artists Den hosts hour-long performances by artists in unconventional venues. In addition to watching this season on PBS, Live From the Artists Den will be available for mobile streaming via Samsung's Milk Video service. Previous episodes will also be watchable and shortened into 30-minute segments.



The Agonist Release 'My Witness, Your Victim' Video
(TeamRock Radio) Canadian melodic death metallers The Agonist have premiered their new music video for the song "My Witness, Your Victim" with TeamRock's Metal Hammer.

Taken from their upcoming album Eye Of Providence, it's another high octane bout of screamy heaviness - and directed by bassist Chris Kells, who shoots music videos while not on tour. It will also be the first full-length with new frontwoman Vicky Psarakis.

Speaking out the music, guitarist Danny Marino says: "Lyrically this song dives into the album theme of the Eye Of Providence. We live in a world where everything is being tracked and the more we interface with technology the more we lose our humanity. We're really happy with how the video turned out and believe it or not the actor was not harmed (too much) during the shoot!"




Periphery Release 'Alpha' Video
(Prog) Periphery have released a music video for their track Alpha. It's taken from their dual album release Juggernaut: Alpha and Juggernaut: Omega which launched this week via Century Media.

The band previously said they decided to split the album into two separate discs as they wanted to listeners to fully appreciate the complex story and musical themes.

Drummer Matt Halpern said: "Because Juggernaut is very detailed and dense in terms of character development, peaks and valleys, climaxes and resolutions, we've divided the story and music in two.

"Although the albums are split in two physically, the story is only complete when the albums are digested consecutively. This allows the listener to recognise and hear the lyrical and musical overlapping themes, foreshadowing, and connected ideas."

The band will take to the road with Devin Townsend for three dates in March and have lined up a headlining show in London in April. See the dates and watch the video here.



More To Come From King Crimson Says Tony Levin
(Classic Rock) King Crimson bassist Tony Levin believes there's a lot more to come from Robert Fripps' reactivated band. And he's so delighted that the mainman came back from self-enforced retirement that he'd be happy to lend his support even if he wasn't part of the lineup.

Crimson recently released Live At The Orpheum, recorded last year during their comeback US tour. Fripp confirmed in November that they were working on three studio tracks.

Leven tells Vintage Rock: "I'm thrilled that King Crimson is back doing stuff, and doubly thrilled that I'm in it - although as a fan of the band, I would be happy even if I wasn't in it.

"It seems like every year we're going to do something. It's on the table, the possibility that we'll come up with some new music - and maybe, eventually, a new album. That would be great." Read more here.



In Flames, L7, Testament Lead Latest Additions To Download
(Classic Rock) Andrew WK, In Flames, Testament, We Are Harlot and L7 lead the latest addition to the bill for this year's Download festival. A total of 23 acts have been named for the June 12-14 event at Donington, also including Ace Frehley, Tremonti, Black Star Riders, Thunder, King 810 and more.

They join headliners Slipknot, Muse and Kiss plus Judas Priest, Faith No More, Motley Crue and others. Andrew WK will make his first Download appearance this year. He says: "I'm totally chuffed about playing and partying at my first ever Download. I've no doubt that it will be partier than even the partiest party I've ever been to."

In Flames singer Anders Friden adds: "It will be fantastic to be back on UK soil. Download has always been a great festival. We're looking forward to meeting friends and playing our take on heavy metal in front of some of the greatest fans that there is." Read more here.




NWOBHM Band Mythra Plan First Show In Over 30 Years
(Classic Rock) Influential NWOBHM outfit Mythra will play their first gig in more than 30 years at next month's Brofest festival. The band have reunited for the event in Newcastle, which runs from February 27 to March 1 and also features Blitzkrieg, High Spirits and Avenger.

Mythra won critical acclaim for their debut EP, Death And Destiny, released in 1979. They were cited as influences by Metallica and others, but after an initial flurry of support, they suffered a number of blows which prevented their promising career from taking off.

Death And Destiny was later expanded into a full album, which was never given an official release. Record company disputes and bad luck contrived to break the spirit of the group, who called it a day in 1983.

Singer Vince High says: "There has been continued interest in Mythra over the years and the promoters of Brofest invited us to perform last year, but work commitments from some of our guys meant it couldn't happen.

"We are, however, playing on Friday, February 27. It is our first gig in over 30 years and we're all really looking forward to it and sounding great in rehearsals." Read more here.




Renaissance Reissuing Classic Live Albums
(Prog) Two Renaissance live albums from the 1970s will be re-released by Cleopatra Records in the coming months. DeLane Lea Studios, from 1973, appears on February 3. It was recorded in the iconic premises before a small gathering of the band's friends and features seven tracks with guest appearances by Andy Powell and Al Stewart.

Academy Of Music, originally launched in 1974, will follow on March 31. Taped in New York during the band's Ashes Are Burning tour, the double-disc title contains nine tracks.

Renaissance last year launched latest album Symphony Of Light, a revised version of 2013's Grandine Il Vento. It was their final work with guitarist Michael Dunford, who died after its completion. Read more here.




The Gentle Storm Go Behind The Scenes In New Video
(Prog) The Gentle Storm have issued a behind-the-scenes clip from the making of their upcoming album The Diary. The collaboration between Ayeron mastermind Arjen Lucassen and The Gathering singer Anneke van Giersbergen launch the record in Europe on March 23 via InsideOut.

They premiered the lyric video for the track Endless Sea exclusively through Prog and TeamRock earlier this month. Now they've released the first update video from the recording process.

Lucassen says: "The moment I first heard Anneke singing with The Gathering back in the 90s I have loved her voice and knew I just had to work with her.

"Back then she was super busy so it took some persuading to get her to guest on my Ayeron album Into The Electric Castle. As I was working on this album and the tracks were slowly taking shape, I realised there was only one singer I knew could do the job - Anneke."

And Lucassen explains that before he could ask her if she wanted to take part in the project, van Giersbergen got in touch first to ask about a collaboration new material.

He continues: "Before I could even fire off an email to her, she actually emailed me and asked if I felt like writing a few tracks together with her - talk about an amazing coincidence. We got together and right from the start we were on the same wavelength and complemented and inspired each other." Read more and watch the video here.




Vardis Announce New Member
(Classic Rock) Vardis have named Joe Clancy as their new drummer after the departure of Gary Pearson. And the veteran NWOBHM outfit say they're dedicated to ensuring they don't become a nostalgia act following their reunion in 2013 after splitting in 1986.

Guitarist Steve Zodiac and bassist Terry Horbury say: "Gary has indicated he can no longer continue as a member of Vardis, and we wish him luck in his future endeavours.

"It won't be the same, but nor should it be - rock 'n' roll has always embraced change, and so do we. We didn't reform this band for a nostalgia trip, like some West End jukebox musical or an overdue testimonial, but because we love the music and still have unfinished business with it." Read more here.



LongFallBoots Streaming New Album Online
(TeamRock Radio) LongFallBoots are exclusively streaming their new full-length album, "Wait For The Echo," with TeamRock's Metal Hammer. Taking influence from the likes of Melvins, Kyuss and Deftones, LongFallBoots create one heavy, distortion-fuelled racket.

Speaking about the album and the recording process, the band say: "We spent the first year and a half of the band's existence locked away in the studio releasing a bunch of EPs, with our 'write it in a night, record it in a weekend' regime.

"As we were starting to prepare our live show our friend persuaded us (after a lot of arguments) to put out a full-length album. He got the timing about right because after we'd put in the hours really understanding what our sound is, Wait For The Echo is the truest representation of what we're about: keeping it heavy and fuzzy, but working in that melody with it."





The Cadillac Three Announce UK Tour
(The Blues The Cadillac Three have announced a six-date UK tour starting in March. The US band were in the country for three shows in December to support the release of single Get Your Buzz On. And as they take in the news that they've been nominated for two Grammy awards, the group also reveal they'll be back for a longer run of shows.

Singer/guitarist Jaren Johnston, who is nominated in two categories for production and songwriting at next month's 57th Grammy Awards, says: "What a great honour. I got urgent calls from my family just as soon as we landed in Europe before Christmas, and when that happens you're always worried that bad news might be coming. I couldn't have been more wrong. Good times."

The tour starts at the Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton on March 4 and culminates at Dingwalls, London on March 10. Drummer Neil Mason says: "We ended 2014 with some great shows in the UK, and we promised to keep coming back as long as y'all will have us." Read more including the dates here.



E Street Band Member In The Dark About Bruce Springsteen's Plans
(Classic Rock) The E Street Band's keyboardist Roy Bittan says he knows as much as fans do about future live dates with Bruce Springsteen. And he says there's no point asking him as he's in the dark and waiting for The Boss to reveal his plans.

He tells Rolling Stone: "People always want to know what we're doing. I understand that. The music business is generally one in which people make plans far in advance, and they don't veer from their plans.

"But with Bruce, it's just simply that he writes songs, he makes an album and then he figures out where he wants to go and play. There's always some plans in the mix but until he says, 'The album is done, let's go,' I don't ever really know.

"It's kind of been that way for 40 years. I just go along with it and I'm sure at some point he's gonna say, 'OK, this is what I want to do," and it'll happen. But until then, it's just as much a waiting game for me as it is for the fans." Read more here.




Singled Out: Pryti's Insomnia
Today Pryti tells us about her new single "Insomnia" from her forthcoming album "Tales Of A Melancholic," which is set to be released on February 16th. Here is the story:

When I was writing "Tales of a Melancholic" I was working on a lot of song ideas and chord progressions. I had three songs left to write Bitter Pill was pretty much done and one day I decided I wanted to write a song called Insomnia. I took a day to build the story in my head. Insomnia is about losing something, looking back and realising what you have lost and not being able to get over it. I always have a scene in my head when I write a song like it could be in a film. One of the chord progressions I was working on then became the chorus and I started singing "Say you'll be here tonight, cause there's been too much plaguing my mind…" The chorus is about wanting to talk things over and to get closure so you can move on.

Part of the first verse then came to me. The first verse is about being stuck in a good memory but in reality it's not like that anymore. I was getting writers block so I decided to watch some TV and after that I finished Bitter Pill and nearly finished Angst. The next day I sang the chorus for Insomnia with my guitar and I went into the bridge and started singing 'I can't tell you I can't tell you what I really want to say…' The bridge is about not having the courage to say what you want to say. I finished writing the rest of the song that day which was awesome and a relief. The second verse is about wondering how you got to this place and starting to get over things. The end of the song is about not having courage and walking away.

I always write the basis of my songs first and then I write all the riffs once everything else is recorded. When I was in the studio with my producer Justin Hill he put some delay on my guitar and I was playing a couple ideas and then the main riff came out. I love moments like that studio magic does exist. The main riff at the beginning brings the drama and helps the song to build and the riff at the end adds to the drama of whats going to happen oh she gave in.

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






Aerosmith Preview Concert Film Ahead Of Theatrical Release
(hennemusic) Aerosmith are sharing a preview of "Aerosmith Rocks Donington 2014", a new live DVD that will premiere in US cinemas on February 26. The package features Aerosmith's headline performance on June 15, 2014 as they closed the final night of the Download Festival in Donington Park.

"It's always an absolute hoot that leaves me howling at the moon, performing at Donington we couldn't have had a better time on stage that night," says Steven Tyler. "I could feel the vibes of all the greats pulsing through the stage like AC DC, Rage Against the Machine, Metallica and so many more."

"We have played Donington many times but this performance was one of our best," said Joe Perry. "Thanks to our fans who were there who helped us make it a night to remember. We are proud to have it be part of this theatrical series and it will give our fans who weren't there around the world a chance to relive an ass kicking night of rock and roll."

Watch the preview here.

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Blackberry Smoke Stream New Song 'Rock And Roll Again'
(The Blues Blackberry Smoke have released a stream of their track Rock And Roll Again. It's taken from their album Holding All The Roses, set for launch on February 9 via Earache.

Frontman Charlie Starr has explained the title by saying: "If there's a feeling of competition and you feel like you're winning, what is it that you actually win? We're all winners - but if we all win, who cares?"

Blackberry Smoke have also announced that they will be supporting the album release with the launch of a US tour on February 6 and remain on the road until May 9.

Stream the new song here.

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Fall Out Boy Admit They're 'Too Pop For Rock And Too Rock For Pop'
(TeamRock Radio) Pete Wentz says Fall Out Boy's joint tour with rapper Wiz Khalifa makes sense as both acts find themselves wedged between genres. The bass player says FOB are "too pop for rock and too rock for pop" and believes Khalifa is in a similar situation in the hip hop world.

And he reveals the band expect to write and record new music with Khalifa, which could see the light of day before the Boys Of Zummer tour begins in June. Wentz tells Canoe.ca: "It feels sometimes like Fall Out Boy is an island right now. We're too pop for rock and too rock for pop. Where do we fit into the whole thing?

"And looking at Wiz Khalifa, it kind of looks like a similar situation to him as far as hip hop and where he stands within it. He's kind of in hip hop but he's kind of in pop, and when you have a foot in both worlds it's like you have a foot in neither.

"So it just made sense for us. And we're going to do some music together that will hopefully get out before summer." Read more here.

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ZZ Top Rock Jimmy Kimmel
(Radio.com) If, for some reason, you missed ZZ Top's excellent 2012 album, La Futura, that's your bad. But the legendary Texan trio hit the stage of Jimmy Kimmel Live on Monday night to remind you of the centerpiece of that record, "I Gotsta Get Paid."

You might remember the song from its use in a memorable commercial for Jeremiah Weed, a company that specializes in whiskey-based drinks. But the song itself has its origins with a substance even more mind-altering than booze.

It's not quite a cover, but "I Gotsta Get Paid" draws heavily from "25 Lighters," a song by Texas hip-hop artist DJ DMD, an ode the practice of gutting Bic lighters to hide crack cocaine in them. DJ DMD and his collaborators on the track, Fat Pat and Lil Keke, each got co-songwriting credit on the ZZ Top track. The song, and the entire La Futura album was produced by Rick Rubin, someone who knows a little something about combining rock and hip-hop.

ZZ didn't just sing about the joys of crack espionage on Kimmel, though. For those who aren't familiar with their newer material, they also rocked their ode the female booty, "Tush."

Watch it here.

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Pre-Yes Band Mabel Greer's Toyshop Share Behind The Scenes Video
(Prog) Mabel Greer's Toyshop have released a behind-the-scenes rehearsal video as they prepare for the release of their debut album. A New Way Of Life will be issued on March 9 and will feature new versions of early Yes tracks Beyond & Before and Sweetness.

The band - which formed in 1966 and morphed into Yes two years later - announced they had reformed last year and that they planned to release what will be their first album under the Mabel Greer's Toyshop banner.

The new video footage shows founding members Clive Bayley and Robert Hagger in rehearsals in France. It features the track Electric Funeral, which was previously made available to stream.

Watch the video here.

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JJ Grey & Mofro Preview New Album Ol' Glory
(The Blues JJ Grey & Mofro have launched a stream containing clips from all 12 songs on upcoming album Ol' Glory. The follow-up to 2013's This River is released on February 23 via Provogue Records.

The label reports: "Ol' Glory contains 12 new songs that feature the deep, soulful blend of blues, rock, folk, funk, gospel, gritty R&B and personal, Southern-inspired narratives that have become synonymous with JJ Grey & Mofro. "The material reflects two themes that run through their entire body of work - a strong sense of place, and finding happiness with where you are in life."

JJ Grey & Mofro will tour the US in February and March, then kick off a European journey with an appearance at London's Islington Academy on March 18.

Check out the preview here.

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Glass Hammer Preview New Album 'The Breaking Of The World'
(Prog) Glass Hammer have released a new video trailer for upcoming 17th studio album The Breaking Of The World, and confirmed its release date of March 31st.

The follow-up to last year's Ode To Echo will be available to pre-order on March 1 via the band's website. Mainmen Steve Babb and Fred Schendel are joined by Kamran Alan Shikoh, Carl Groves, Aaron Raulston and Susie Bogdanowicz.

Babb tells Prog of the nine-track release: "We've just wrapped up what has to be the best-sounding Glass Hammer album in years. We're all very happy with this one!"

Watch the trailer here.

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Rush's Neil Peart Teases R40 Icon Snare
(hennemusic) Rush drummer Neil Peart has released a preview video for the new R40 Icon snare drum in advance of the band's R40 40th anniversary tour. The R40 Icon snare is expected to be available this spring.

Peart teamed with DW Drum Designer John Good to create a one-of-a kind R40 kit crafted from Romanian River Oak and a plethora of intricate laser-cut exotic woods.

To commemorate Rush's 40th Anniversary and the making of the R40 kit, a limited number of 250 replica Icon snare drums will be produced. The 6.5x14", 13-ply VLT Oak shell is sealed in clear, high-gloss lacquer and complemented by gold-plated hardware.

A signed-and-numbered certificate of authenticity and deluxe carrying bag will accompany each drum and a percentage of the proceeds will benefit Neil's charity of choice. Read more and watch the video here.

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Beth Hart Previews New Album 'Better Than Home'
(The Blues Beth Hart has confirmed the launch of seventh album Better Than Home on April 13 via Provogue - and she's also revealed a trailer video to preview the release.

The 11-track title is described as "highly emotional" but it's not an exploration of Hart's notoriously troubled life, which has seen her fighting against bipolar disorder, drink and drug addictions and a difficult upbringing.

Provogue say: "Instead, Beth chooses to find the good things that have been there all along - accepting and loving her parents for who they really are, appreciating a good husband, facing her fears head-on, and ultimately finding ways to heal and convert that positive energy into music that moves people.

"This is an incredibly moving record that's going to reach people on a very personal level, because a one-of-a-kind artist found the perfect formula for exposing her very private inner voice and empowering it with her legendary outer voice."

Tim Abrigg Jr. Rants/Raves:: Today's Day in Rock News!

Tim Abrigg Jr. Rants/Raves:: Today's Day in Rock News!: Today's Day in Rock Tom DeLonge Addresses Blink-182 Controversy Tom DeLonge has released a letter to fans explaining his side...

Today's Day in Rock News!

Today's Day in Rock


Tom DeLonge Addresses Blink-182 Controversy
Tom DeLonge has released a letter to fans explaining his side of the story in his current dispute with Blink-182 about whether he has left the band or not. The group announced on Monday that DeLonge had left the group "indefinitely" and he quickly announced that he was still a member.

Now DeLonge addressed the controversy directly with fans with the following open letter: Where to begin? The truth is always a good place. Let's go there. I love Blink and am incredibly grateful for having it in my life. It has given me everything. EVERYTHING. I started this band, it was in my garage where I dreamed up the mischief.

So what have I been doing behind the scenes? Well, I've tried to make things work. I've tried to help move this band down 50 different paths using my people, or other people, and people we don't even know. I tried to put forth ideas about how we can grow and challenge ourselves to become a better band. I'm not sitting around waiting for someone else to do the work. I'm not wired that way.

The big reset was when I tried to put together a band summit in Utah where we'd talk and work things out. It quickly was narrowed down to three hours in someone's dressing room in a sh*tty casino. What I hoped would be a positive get-together away from everything turned into an awkward meeting in a smelly convention hall dressing room. But it was there that I told Mark and Travis that as long as we talked, and things were good between us as real friends, that I would be engaged and work passionately. I'd mirror our personal relationship. Exact words.

Then, the EP was the test. Months later, we're recording those songs. I was in the studio for two months and they came in for around 11 days. I didn't mind leading the charge, but we had all agreed to give it 100%. And this time- no baggage.

Despite that, we still somehow managed to self-sabotage.

At one point, squabbling and politics forced me to pull the EP down at a time when 60,000 fans were trying to purchase it. And that blew my mind. I'd been trying so hard but that moment ultimately broke my spirit. I then realized that this band couldn't lose the years of ill will.

It was after that episode that I promised myself I would never be in that position again - to rely on the words we said to each other.

I remember asking one of them on the phone, "did you try your best? Like we all agreed to?" He was silent.

Are they at fault?

Am I? Of course. I'm nuts.

But there's three of us - we're all accountable. At the end of the day, we've always been dysfunctional, which is why we haven't talked in months. But we never did. In the 8 years we have been together it has always been that way.

Over the past two and a half years, while a recording partner was being sought for a new Blink record, I launched a media company. I just put out a new Angels & Airwaves record and as some of you know, there's a lot more coming - comics, books, a film, etc. The books will all come with music. This is a wheel that's already in motion. So you can imagine my frustration when I was handed a 60-page Blink contract saying I couldn't release an Angels album for 9 months and that the Blink album had to be recorded in 6 months, which was impossible for me. Doing so would force me to breach several artist contracts. Authors, Concept Artists, Animators… Many people.

They did eventually drop the Angels provision, but the part about having to finish a Blink album in 6 months remained. All of these other projects are being worked, exist in contract form- I can't just slam the brakes and drop years of development, partnerships and commitments at the snap of a finger.

I told my manager that I will do Blink 182 as long as it was fun and worked with the other commitments in my life, including my family.

But Mark and Travis know all of this.

I wrote this same letter to them a year ago. But it created a massive argument, the biggest one yet actually. I just wanted us to do things we all agreed on. But that was their moment to dig in. From their view I was controlling everything. In reality, I was scared to put myself out there again. To repeat the EP experience.

I also wrote all of this to their managers this past December (who told me my bandmates weren't angry and agreed with some of my ideas of how to grow the band).

So you can imagine my surprise when a press release went out yesterday-without my knowledge-about the band's future. This is new to me. It's not in my nature to fuel negativity about the legacy of the band on something as trashy as the Internet world.
I guess that's another example of how I differ from most. I follow the light… I follow passion and I make art. I hang with my son, my daughter and my wife.

the end of the day, all of this makes me really sad.

Sad for us.

Sad for you- that you're witnessing this immaturity.

I know them very well, and their current actions are defensive and divisive.

I suppose they're doing this as a way to protect themselves from being hurt.

Like we all do.

And even as I watch them act so different to what I know of them to be, I still care deeply for them. Like brothers, and like old friends. But our relationship got poisoned yesterday.

Never planned on quitting, just find it hard as hell to commit.
-
Tom


Scott Weiland Says He Never Joined Art Of Anarchy Supergroup
The announcement of the new supergroup Art Of Anarchy, featuring former Stone Temple Pilots/Velvet Revolver singer Scott Weiland, Guns N' Roses guitarist Ron 'Bumblefoot' Thal and Disturbed's John Moyer, was followed by immediate controversy when Weiland publicly stated that he was not a member of the group. And now Weiland has doubled down by insisting that he was never a member of the group.

Weiland tells Billboard, "I was never in the band. It was something I did when I wasn't doing anything. I was asked to write some lyrics and sing some melodies on the project. But it's not a band I'm in."

The singer's claims run counter to what Bumblefoot recently told Rolling Stone, "The five of us made an album together. Scott is currently the singer of the band. It's in writing; no confusion. But yes, Scott's solo album and tour are his priority and we're all on the same page about getting another vocalist if Art of Anarchy hits the road.

"But we don't need to cross that bridge just yet. Taking everything as it comes, one step at a time, letting it evolve organically. Where it goes from here (and with who!) is yet to be seen."




Sammy Hagar Launching His Own Radio Show
Sammy Hagar is venturing into a new area of media: radio. The Red Rocker will be launching a new radio show this spring entitled "Sammy Hagar's Top Rock Countdown."

The former Van Halen and Chickenfoot frontman will be hosting the weekly show which will be produced by Envisage Radio Group where he will count down lists of his favorite songs, comeback albums and more, according to the announcement.

Sammy had this to say about the show, "After more than 40 years in Rock & Roll, I've got a lot of knowledge, a lot of love, and always a lot to say so this is going to be a blast."

Hagar has put together a teaser clip to give fans a taste of what they can expect when the show launches sometime in the second quarter of this year. Check out the clip here.



Mad Season Add Special Guests To Reunion Show
(Classic Rock) Mad Season's reunion show this weekend will feature three as-yet-unnamed guest stars. A post on Pearl Jam's Facebook page teases fans with the news that the band's performance at the fourth annual Sonic Evolution show, held by the Seattle Symphony Orchestra on January 30, will see Mike McCready, Barrett Martin, Duff McKagan and singer Chris Cornell joined by the special guests.

The sold-out show will be a celebration of Seattle's grunge heritage and will see Mad Season's surviving members McCready, of Pearl Jam and Martin, of The Screaming Trees, play songs from the group's sole album, 1995's Above.

Pearl Jam's post reads: "This just in: Three additional special guests will join the bill for the Seattle Symphony Sonic Evolution event on Jan 30. Who do you think they will be?" Read more here.



Alex Lifeson Explains Why Rush Tour May Be Last Major Trek
(Classic Rock) Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson says the band learned to enjoy home life during their year off - and that's one of the reasons their upcoming tour is likely to be the last of its kind.

The prog veterans have announced a run of shows notably shorter than their road trips of recent years, and all three members have hinted at difficulties in deciding whether to do it at all.

Now Lifeson tells Q107 Toronto: "We'd been working like crazy for five years. After the last tour we were exhausted and we decided to take a year off. I think over this past period we've got to really like being home and enjoying our family time.

"My wife and I did a lot of travelling - stuff we wanted to do for decades and hadn't been able to. We took advantage of that time off. Coming back to another big tour was a really tough decision. You can see that in the number of dates - it's a short tour."

But he continues: "We're getting excited. I'll admit it's been slow for me, and probably for Neil too. Geddy's ready to go on tour - he's excited about working." He had a lot more to say here.




Mogwai Announce 20th Anniversary Shows
(Prog) Mogwai have confirmed that they will be playing four shows this summer to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the very first time that they played together.

They'll play two shows in Glasgow and two in London almost two decades to the day since they first gathered in mainman Stuart Braithwaite's parents' house to rehearse for the first time.

The band launched their eighth album, Rave Tapes, to positive reviews last year. They were followed by an EP of unreleased tracks from the session entitled Music Industry 3 Fitness Industry 1 last month. Read more here.



Deftones To Begin Recording New Album
(TeamRock Radio) Deftones are aiming to start recording their eighth album next month, says guitarist Stephen Carpenter. But the band aren't committing to any tight schedule for the follow-up to 2012's Koi No Yokan.

Carpenter rells Gold Rush: "We're actually writing. We're supposed to be going in to record it next month - but we're taking it as it goes. We're not all the way ready, but we've still got time. We're working on it."

In March 2013 frontman Chino Moreno said the band would retain their usual approach to songwriting for their next title, reporting: "We don't plan on what kind of record we're going to make - we react to each other.

"One guy starts playing something then the other guy reacts to it, and the other guys react to that. Next thing we know, we have a song. I think that's the best way to write music."





Asking Alexandria's New Singer Revealed?
(TeamRock Radio) Down & Dirty frontman Denis Shaforostov is rumoured to have been recruited by Asking Alexandria after they vowed to go on without singer Danny Worsnop, who will continue to work with his other band We Are Harlot.

The English metal outfit parted company with Worsnop last week and music website Alternative Press is reporting that Ukrainian vocalist Shaforostov has been brought in to replace him.

Alternative Press points out that Shaforostov's previous band Make Me Famous have a remarkably similar sound to Asking Alexandria and this his current band Down & Dirty are on the same record label as AA. Read more here.




Eddie Van Halen To Talk Innovation At Smithsonian Event
(HPM) Eddie Van Halen has announced that he will be speaking at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History and Zócalo Public Square on February 12th and the event will be broadcast online.

Van Halen will be discussing innovation as part of the national "What It Means to Be American" program. His camp sent over these details about the event: The Dutch immigrant and naturalized U.S. citizen will discuss his American journey, his role in creating one of the biggest American rock bands of all time, how he has reinvented the way the guitar is played and designed, and he will answer the question, "Is rock 'n' roll about reinvention?" Entertainment journalist Denise Quan will moderate the sold-out event.

Best known as the lead guitarist and co-founder of Van Halen, Eddie Van Halen is recognized for his innovative performance and recording styles, two-hand tapping, scorching solos and energetic concerts. Van Halen has invented guitar technology, technique and instruments that have redefined how the guitar is played and heard.

For the event Van Halen and Fender will donate a master-built replica of Van Halen's infamous white-with-black-stripe Stratocaster. This is the guitar that changed the guitar world in 1978 when Van Halen cross-pollinated Gibson electronics with Fender body and neck designs. To represent the path of progressions in his instrument designs, a Stealth finished EVH Brand Wolfgang will also be included to represent his modern-day workhorse.

In addition to the guitars, Van Halen and Fender Musical Instruments Corp. will also donate an EVH Brand 5150-III amplifier and speaker cabinet to embody the journey and progression of his amplifier designs from the early '70s through the modern day.

The Feb. 12 event is sold-out, and no public tickets are available. The event video may be accessed Feb. 13 here.




Bob Seger Announces Final Stop Of The Ride Out Tour
Bob Seger and The Silver Bullet Band have announced that they will be returning to the city where they recorded Seger's latest studio album "Ride Out", for the final stop of their Ride Out Tour.

The veteran rocker will be concluding the North American tour on Saturday, March 28th at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, TN, which will be the 40th concert for the tour that began in November of last year.

The tour is still scheduled to hit several markets before the Nashville finale. Tonight Seger will be performing in Columbus, OH and also has shows scheduled in Atlanta, Tampa, Ft. Lauderdale, Dallas, Houston, Wichita, Phoenix, Las Vegas, San Diego, Los Angeles (Inglewood), San Jose, Vancouver, Salt Lake City, Kansas City, Indianapolis and more. See the full list of tour dates here.



Def Leppard Reveal First U.S. Dates Of 2015
Def Leppard have announced that they will be performing at state fairs in two U.S. cities this summer where they will be sharing the bill with Styx and Tesla.

The veteran band is scheduled to appear at the Minnesota State Fair in St. Paul, MN on August 27th and The Great Allentown Fair in Allentown, PA on September 1st.

These are the first U.S. shows the band has announced for this year as they continue to work on their new studio album. They have also announced two spring tours, one in Canada in April and early May and a run of European dates in May and June. Check out the tour dates here.




Prog Veterans Announce New Supergroup Ghost Community
(Prog) Five seasoned prog veterans have gathered in a new band named Ghost Community. Vocalist Marc Atkinson (Riversea, solo), guitarist Simon Rogers (Also Eden), bassist Matthew Cohen (The Reasoning), keyboardist Moray Macdonald (Godsticks, Crimson Sky) and drummer Jake Bradford-Sharp (The Reasoning, Echochain) have begun work on their debut album.

They say: "With much crisscrossing the country through the years, sharing the same stages, frequenting the same scene and forging firm friendships, the only natural evolutionary step was to form a collaborative and exciting musical entity.

"We realised that we all touched bases on many musical levels. With the wealth of experience we bring to the table, we can make this band something that not only meets our own musical desires - but a band for everyone." Read more here.




Yes and Toto Teaming Up For North American Tour?
(Prog) Yes and Toto could be planning a US tour together, if comments by David Paich and Alan White are anything to go by. The musicians were interviewed separately at the NAMM industry convention, and both were asked about their schedules for the year.

Toto keyboardist and vocalist Paich said: "I think we're going to be touring the States with Yes - our heroes. We're very excited." He also mentioned the month of August.

Meanwhile, Yes drummer White said: "We're just coming off the last album right now; we're laying back, smelling the roses a bit, then we'll be back at it.

"We're looking forward to getting back out. I think we're going to be touring with Toto." Stream the interview here.



Three Days Grace Announce New Album and Stream New Single
(TeamRock Radio) Three Days Grace have confirmed their fifth album, Human, will be launched on March 31. The follow-up to 2012 release Transit Of Venus is their first with new frontman Matt Waist, brother of bassist Brad, who replaced Adam Gontier in 2013.

The album has been headed up by lead single "I Am Machine." Drummer Neil Sanderson says of it: "We wanted to create a machine-like sound. Lyrically, the song is about how sometimes you feel like you're in an endless routine and can't escape.

"You begin to feel numb to the world around you as you yearn to just feel anything - any emotion." Fans can check out an online stream of "I Am Machine" here.




Twisted Sister's Dee Snider Debunks Rock Star Myth
(Classic Rock) Dee Snider has set about debunking the myth of rock stars as disloyal womanisers. The Twisted Sister frontman has been with his wife Suzette, a costume designer, for 38 years.

Snider tells Mitch Lafon: "As a young man I had an odd wisdom about finding someone who loved me for me before I knew I was gonna become famous. She thought I was a nice guy and I turned that into a 38-year relationship.

"In the 80s that's when I became a megalomaniac and nearly destroyed everything, my band and relationships and it nearly ended up in a divorce because I wasn't a nice guy.

"But that's been a major job for Suzette over the years, to be the one who says, 'No, that doesn't look good.' She's not always right, she didn't like We're Not Gonna Take It, I just wanted to point that out. But she is right a lot, a good 95% of the time and she's always been a really good sounding board for me.

"I was talking with Kevin Bacon and I said to him, 'You've had a long relationship with Kyra, what do you attribute that to?' And he said, 'You just don't hear about the successes, only the failures.' I started to think about it and started putting a list together, and it's f***ing long. It's a long list of successful entertainment relationships in rock 'n' roll, in theatre and in movies." Read more here.




Airbourne Plan New Album Under New Record Deal
(Classic Rock) Airbourne have signed to Spinefarm Records for their fourth album, which they aim to release later this year. And the Australian outfit insist the deal secures their future for many years.

Frontman Joel O'Keeffe says: "We're pumped up to have signed to the world's toughest and truest hard rock label, Spinefarm. We've worked with some of the guys on this team in the past, and we're extremely confident about having each other's back in the trenches for many hard rockin' years to come."

Spinefarm boss Jonas Nachsin adds: "Airbourne have thrilled audiences around the world with their insanely energetic live shows and wildly anthemic songs. We're thrilled to be part of their ensuing juggernaut." Read more here.



HIM Lose A Member
(TeamRock Radio) HIM drummer Gas Lipstick has left the band after 16 years, he's confirmed. But he says there's "no drama, bad blood or any negativity" behind his decision.

Lipstick reports: "With a heavy heart I'm announcing my departure from a magnificent band. It has been a journey that I will remember for the rest of my life. I simply feel that it's time for me to move on as a musician."

He admits he'd noticed during their last tour that he wasn't as committed to the band as he'd been in the past. "I've always played every note straight from my heart," he says. "If my heart feels it's time to let go, I have to listen because otherwise it wouldn't be right towards myself, the rest of the band or the wonderful fans." Read more here.




Venom Will Continue Staying True To Themselves and Fans
(Classic Rock) Venom frontman Cronos says the band will continue to give fans what they want - more leather than Priest, heavier tunes than Motorhead and more satanism than Sabbath.

The singer/bass player - along with drummer Danny 'Dante' Needham and guitarist Stuart 'La Rage' Dixon - this week released Venom's 14th album From the Very Depths.

And Cronos insists they won't stray too far from their black metal blueprint. He tells Full Metal Jackie (via Noisecreep): "We know what the fans want, we know what the legacy of black metal is, we know how the music works, we try to give fans the best of everything that is great about metal.

"More studs and leather than Priest and heavier than Motorhead, more satanic than Black Sabbath. Bigger pyros than Kiss. Venom can be just that extreme. To be able to create an album like From the Very Depths is great. We just can't wait to get on the road and play these f***ing songs live." Read more here.




And So I Watch You From Afar Announce Album and Tour
(TeamRock Radio) And So I Watch You From Afar have announced the release date for fourth album Heirs and a European tour that kicks off in the UK with support coming from labelmates Mylets.

The new album, Heirs, the follow-up to All Hail Bright Futures is launched via Sargent House on May 4, following shows in Glasgow, Manchester, Bristol and London.

It's described as the Northern Irish outfit's "most painstakingly created, most personal and most meaningful" creation to date. The ten tracks explore the theme of "the inheritance of ideas in that we're all heirs to other peoples' passion, which in turn inspire ourselves."

More including tour dates here.



Aversions Crown Announce Permanent Singer
(TeamRock Radio) Aversions Crown have appointed Mark Poida as their permanent frontman after he stood in for Colin Jeffs on their recent tour. Jeffs, who cited "medical conditions affecting his voice" as the reason behind his absence, won't return after Australian Poida stood in four four UK shows earlier this month.

But he's said he'd made the decision not to continue before his health issues arose. The band report: "If you've seen us this year in Australia or Europe, you'll know Mark has a huge voice and will be crushing it for us moving forward. Cheers Colin for all the good times!"

Jeffs says: "The time has come for me to part ways with Aversions Crown. This is a difficult call for me to make, but a necessary one. The band has been my sole focus for the past five years - while it has been an amazing experience, it has also been a very draining one." Read more here.

More on Aversions Crown - Aversions Crown Music, DVDs, Books and more - Aversions Crown T-shirts and Posters





(hennemusic) Aerosmith are sharing a preview of "Aerosmith Rocks Donington 2014", a new live DVD that will premiere in US cinemas on February 26. The package features Aerosmith's headline performance on June 15, 2014 as they closed the final night of the Download Festival in Donington Park.

"It's always an absolute hoot that leaves me howling at the moon, performing at Donington we couldn't have had a better time on stage that night," says Steven Tyler. "I could feel the vibes of all the greats pulsing through the stage like AC DC, Rage Against the Machine, Metallica and so many more."

"We have played Donington many times but this performance was one of our best," said Joe Perry. "Thanks to our fans who were there who helped us make it a night to remember. We are proud to have it be part of this theatrical series and it will give our fans who weren't there around the world a chance to relive an ass kicking night of rock and roll."




Blackberry Smoke Stream New Song 'Rock And Roll Again'
(The Blues Blackberry Smoke have released a stream of their track Rock And Roll Again. It's taken from their album Holding All The Roses, set for launch on February 9 via Earache.

Frontman Charlie Starr has explained the title by saying: "If there's a feeling of competition and you feel like you're winning, what is it that you actually win? We're all winners - but if we all win, who cares?"

Blackberry Smoke have also announced that they will be supporting the album release with the launch of a US tour on February 6 and remain on the road until May 9.




Fall Out Boy Admit They're 'Too Pop For Rock And Too Rock For Pop'
(TeamRock Radio) Pete Wentz says Fall Out Boy's joint tour with rapper Wiz Khalifa makes sense as both acts find themselves wedged between genres. The bass player says FOB are "too pop for rock and too rock for pop" and believes Khalifa is in a similar situation in the hip hop world.

And he reveals the band expect to write and record new music with Khalifa, which could see the light of day before the Boys Of Zummer tour begins in June. Wentz tells Canoe.ca: "It feels sometimes like Fall Out Boy is an island right now. We're too pop for rock and too rock for pop. Where do we fit into the whole thing?

"And looking at Wiz Khalifa, it kind of looks like a similar situation to him as far as hip hop and where he stands within it. He's kind of in hip hop but he's kind of in pop, and when you have a foot in both worlds it's like you have a foot in neither.

"So it just made sense for us. And we're going to do some music together that will hopefully get out before summer." Read more here.




ZZ Top Rock Jimmy Kimmel
(Radio.com) If, for some reason, you missed ZZ Top's excellent 2012 album, La Futura, that's your bad. But the legendary Texan trio hit the stage of Jimmy Kimmel Live on Monday night to remind you of the centerpiece of that record, "I Gotsta Get Paid."

You might remember the song from its use in a memorable commercial for Jeremiah Weed, a company that specializes in whiskey-based drinks. But the song itself has its origins with a substance even more mind-altering than booze.

It's not quite a cover, but "I Gotsta Get Paid" draws heavily from "25 Lighters," a song by Texas hip-hop artist DJ DMD, an ode the practice of gutting Bic lighters to hide crack cocaine in them. DJ DMD and his collaborators on the track, Fat Pat and Lil Keke, each got co-songwriting credit on the ZZ Top track. The song, and the entire La Futura album was produced by Rick Rubin, someone who knows a little something about combining rock and hip-hop.

ZZ didn't just sing about the joys of crack espionage on Kimmel, though. For those who aren't familiar with their newer material, they also rocked their ode the female booty, "Tush."




Pre-Yes Band Mabel Greer's Toyshop Share Behind The Scenes Video
(Prog) Mabel Greer's Toyshop have released a behind-the-scenes rehearsal video as they prepare for the release of their debut album. A New Way Of Life will be issued on March 9 and will feature new versions of early Yes tracks Beyond & Before and Sweetness.

The band - which formed in 1966 and morphed into Yes two years later - announced they had reformed last year and that they planned to release what will be their first album under the Mabel Greer's Toyshop banner.

The new video footage shows founding members Clive Bayley and Robert Hagger in rehearsals in France. It features the track Electric Funeral, which was previously made available to stream.





JJ Grey & Mofro Preview New Album Ol' Glory
(The Blues JJ Grey & Mofro have launched a stream containing clips from all 12 songs on upcoming album Ol' Glory. The follow-up to 2013's This River is released on February 23 via Provogue Records.

The label reports: "Ol' Glory contains 12 new songs that feature the deep, soulful blend of blues, rock, folk, funk, gospel, gritty R&B and personal, Southern-inspired narratives that have become synonymous with JJ Grey & Mofro. "The material reflects two themes that run through their entire body of work - a strong sense of place, and finding happiness with where you are in life."

JJ Grey & Mofro will tour the US in February and March, then kick off a European journey with an appearance at London's Islington Academy on March 18.




Glass Hammer Preview New Album 'The Breaking Of The World'
(Prog) Glass Hammer have released a new video trailer for upcoming 17th studio album The Breaking Of The World, and confirmed its release date of March 31st.

The follow-up to last year's Ode To Echo will be available to pre-order on March 1 via the band's website. Mainmen Steve Babb and Fred Schendel are joined by Kamran Alan Shikoh, Carl Groves, Aaron Raulston and Susie Bogdanowicz.

Babb tells Prog of the nine-track release: "We've just wrapped up what has to be the best-sounding Glass Hammer album in years. We're all very happy with this one!"




Rush's Neil Peart Teases R40 Icon Snare
(hennemusic) Rush drummer Neil Peart has released a preview video for the new R40 Icon snare drum in advance of the band's R40 40th anniversary tour. The R40 Icon snare is expected to be available this spring.

Peart teamed with DW Drum Designer John Good to create a one-of-a kind R40 kit crafted from Romanian River Oak and a plethora of intricate laser-cut exotic woods.

To commemorate Rush's 40th Anniversary and the making of the R40 kit, a limited number of 250 replica Icon snare drums will be produced. The 6.5x14", 13-ply VLT Oak shell is sealed in clear, high-gloss lacquer and complemented by gold-plated hardware.

A signed-and-numbered certificate of authenticity and deluxe carrying bag will accompany each drum and a percentage of the proceeds will benefit Neil's charity of choice. Read more and watch the video here.



Beth Hart Previews New Album 'Better Than Home'
(The Blues Beth Hart has confirmed the launch of seventh album Better Than Home on April 13 via Provogue - and she's also revealed a trailer video to preview the release.

The 11-track title is described as "highly emotional" but it's not an exploration of Hart's notoriously troubled life, which has seen her fighting against bipolar disorder, drink and drug addictions and a difficult upbringing.

Provogue say: "Instead, Beth chooses to find the good things that have been there all along - accepting and loving her parents for who they really are, appreciating a good husband, facing her fears head-on, and ultimately finding ways to heal and convert that positive energy into music that moves people.

"This is an incredibly moving record that's going to reach people on a very personal level, because a one-of-a-kind artist found the perfect formula for exposing her very private inner voice and empowering it with her legendary outer voice."

Tim Abrigg Jr. Rants/Raves:: Today's Day in Rock News!

Tim Abrigg Jr. Rants/Raves:: Today's Day in Rock News!: Today's Day in Rock Blink-182 Can't Agree If Tom DeLonge Left Group Or Not Tom DeLonge may or may not have left Blink-18...