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Friday, November 27, 2015
Today's Day In Rock News!
David Lee Roth Band Reunion Show Shut Down
A fire marshal forced the cancelation of a free reunion show of David Lee Roth's "Eat 'Em Smile" era solo band lineup on Wednesday night (November 25th) in Hollywood when too many fans showed up at the venue.
The event was staged to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the group which featured with guitarist Steve Vai, bassist Billy Sheehan, drummer Greg Bissonette and was to be part of Lucky Strike Live Hollywood/Highland's Ultimate Jam Night.
BraveWords has posted a report about the cancelation which includes video of David Lee Roth interacting with fans as he was leaving the venue. "I apologize about this evening", the Van Halen frontman says in the video (see it here.).
"Looks like we were too popular. There were too many folks, so we're going to try and find a place that has… should we go to the Hollywood Palladium maybe?"
The announced lineup for the special reunion featured guest vocalist Ralph Saenz (a.k.a. Michael Starr of Steel Panther) and did not include Roth but the report indicates that he was to make an unannounced appearance at the event.
hennemusic has further details about how events unfolded: Following an opening set by John 5 and The Creatures and a host of other players, according to California Rock News, the planned headline performance was cancelled by authorities.
Sheehan updated fans on Twitter as events unfolded throughout the evening, part of the club's free weekly "Ultimate Jam Night" series. "There's already a line to get into Lucky Strike tonight, so get there quickly if you want to get in!," posted the bassist early on. "Utter chaos at Lucky Strike live!!
"Well well well. The fire department shut down the whole show before we got on stage. And did we ever have a surprise for you! Such is life."
The surprise was an unannounced appearance by Roth, who was to join his former bandmates for the show. Saenz posted a photo of himself with the Van Halen frontman backstage, writing "Look who showed up for the reunion! Guess I'm singing back ups. Lol." Read more and see the tweets and watch the video here.
Motorhead's Phil Campbell Hospitalized(Classic Rock)
Motorhead guitarist Phil Campbell has been taken to hospital, forcing the band to cancel their Berlin show which was due to take place tonight (November 27).
No details of his condition have been made public, but the band issued a short statement to confirm the news. It reads: "With great regret, Motorhead have to cancel the sold-out show in Berlin today.
"Our brother, guitarist Phil Campbell, suddenly required hospitalisation. He will be better soon but there is no choice other than to cancel our show in Berlin. We all wish Phil a speedy recovery." Read more here.
The Word Alive Frontman Telle Smith Breaks Back Stagediving(TeamRock Radio)
The Word Alive frontman Telle Smith is recovering after suffering multiple injuries in a stagediving incident during a recent show in Pomona, California.
The November 14 stop on the Apollo X tour - featuring co-headliners The Devil Wears Prada and Motionless In White - saw Smith leap into the crowd at the city's Fox Theater. And the singer shared the first news of the injury on Twitter after the concert.
He says: "Never hurt myself at a show worse than I did tonight, but it was worth it for you Pomona! Love our fans!" He revealed the full extent of the damage a few days later in an Instagram update.
Smith says: "I had heard stories of injuries from stage diving, but you never think it will happen to you until it does. I have a broken rib, a fractured rib and broke transverse process which is one of the protruding bones near the bottom of my spine.
"Honestly the pain is pretty bad but knowing I could have hurt someone else like this sort of numbs that from a psychological standpoint. I think in the future I will just stick to going hard on stage not off it." Read more here.
Final Black Sabbath Album Plans Shot Down By Geezer(Classic Rock)
Geezer Butler is behind Black Sabbath's decision to abandon plans for a farewell album, says Tony Iommi. But the guitarist can see the bassist's point - even if he doesn't agree with it.
And he's suggested recording sessions could take place after the icons have wrapped up their final world tour, which includes a headline appearance at next year's Download festival.
Sabbath had originally intended to record a follow-up to 2013's chart-topping 13 to tie in with the farewell road trip, but frontman Ozzy Osbourne revealed last month that it wasn't going to happen.
Iommi tells Q: "I've got so many riffs. I wrote a whole load of stuff for another album and we met up in LA. But the others - well, Geezer - didn't particularly want to do another album. Then again, after you've just had a number one album, where do you go from there?"
He's previously reported that Sabbath could still use the five tracks recorded but not used for 13. "We may still put something out from that," he says. "We don't know yet." Read more here.
Bring Me the Horizon Top Active Rock Chart With Throne(Gibson)
Bring Me the Horizon have a major hit in "Throne." The song - which is off the band's latest full-length album, That's the Spirit - has hit the No. 1 spot on the active rock radio chart, knocking Breaking Benjamin's "Angels Fall" off the top position. It's the U.K. band's first No. 1 song at active rock radio.
The "Throne" showing follows up Bring Me the Horizon's success with That's the Spirit, which debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 earlier this year. That was a career-high for the guys.
Bring Me the Horizon lead guitarist Lee Malia is a Gibson and Epiphone player. His Ltd. Ed. Lee Malia Signature Les Paul Custom is heard all over That's the Spirit.
"I used my signature for everything; the whole CD," he told Gibson.com. "All the main sounds and everything is my Epiphone, and it sounds great, and that's why I use it." Read more here.
Paris Music Venues Seek Government Bailout In Wake Of Attacks(Classic Rock)
The union representing live venues across Paris have asked the French government for further financial aid to keep the industry afloat. Prodiss, the National Union Of Producers, Distributors And Theatres, report that ticket sales have slumped by 80% in the city compared to the same period in 2014 due to the terror attacks on November 13 which left 130 people dead.
They're now seeking €50 million in emergency aid to stop many venues from going under. And while France's culture minister Fleur Pellerin has previously set aside €4m to help the industry, the union insist it's not enough.
They say in a statement: "The implementation of this emergency fund is essential. Our 340 companies are composed mainly of small structures, having virtually no assets, and are extremely fragile.
"The mattress to absorb a crisis does not exist. That is why it's necessary to reassure the profession by increasing the amount and define the scope of this emergency fund. This amount will cover the additional resources deployed to secure facilities, but also to deal with the decline of ticket sales as observed on this first week." Read more here.
Stone Sour Guitarist Explains Band's Cover Tunes(Classic Rock)
Stone Sour guitarist Josh Rand says the band have learned to be patient with frontman Corey Taylor, who's often busy with Slipknot. His schedule means their own album plans have to take a back seat - although they recently found time to create covers EP Straight Outta Burbank.
Rand tells MusicRadar: "The reality is this. Corey has obligations in Slipknot. We are working on new material, but right now there's no timeline because we couldn't realistically support putting a record out."
The second of three EPs - on sale today in limited-edition vinyl - includes tributes to Iron Maiden, Slayer, the Rolling Stones, Motley Crue and Bad Brains.
Rand continues: "We live all over the US, really spread out - there's no city we all call home. So why not jam and do a few covers? Everyone needs to understand these covers are for ourselves. We want to get people into the bands that influenced us, almost take a step back to before Stone Sour." Read more here.
Steve Smith Talks Reunion With Journey(Classic Rock
) Returned Journey drummer Steve Smith is planning to remain with the band for two years, he's said. He was confirmed this week as replacement for Deen Castronovo, who was fired after a drug-fuelled domestic violence incident resulted in a four-year probation sentence.
Smith's third stint with the band - and his first appearance with them since 1998 - will commence with their North American tour in May next year. He says: "I've enjoyed working with Journey guitarist Neal Schon for many years, and playing on his solo albums, including The Calling and his latest release Vortex.
"Over the years he has mentioned that he'd like to have me tour with Journey again. The invitation has always been appreciated - but with my busy schedule always being booked at least a year in advance, the timing was never right.
"Some changes within the band have once again brought me the invitation to tour and this time we were able to plan in advance and work a Journey tour into my schedule." Read more here.
Black Star Riders Star Reveals Band's Pre-Concert Rituals(Classic Rock)
Black Star Riders guitarist Damon Johnson is sharing the band's pre-show rituals ahead of a UK tour next month. Currently on the road playing shows across Europe in support of second album The Killer Instinct, the guitarist gives fans a sneak peek of what happens before they hit the stage.
Johnson says: "We have a couple of rituals. We definitely like to raise a toast before we leave the dressing room. We're pretty tight as a group of friends, so generally right before we go up the stairs to hit the stage we'll all hug each other and say, 'hey man, have a great show.'
"It's just a moment to express some gratitude that we're getting to do this, we've come this far and we're doing all right. It's good to be in a band with guys that you enjoy their company and being around as much as we are."
Black Star Riders will join Def Leppard and Whitesnake for a 10-date UK tour next month and will perform two headline shows of their own - December 11 at London's Shepherds Bush Empire and December 17 at The Wulfrun in Wolverhampton. Read more here.
Compressorhead Crowdfunding Lead Singer Construction(Classic Rock)
Robotic instrumental trio Compressorhead have launched a crowdfunding campaign to help construct a lead singer. The metal outfit currently consists of four-armed drummer Stickboy, guitarist Fingers, who boasts 78 digits, and fast-playing bassist Bones.
But the men behind the rocking robots now need a vocalist to complete the band - with the aim of recording a free-to-download 14-track album. They say: "We are building the lead vocalist to be the frontman of the band. It's got to perform like no other machine - it's got to have the moves, the looks and it's got to keep the show pumping.
"We want to produce an album so good you won't believe it's Robots performing. The next step of the challenge is to build the vocalist. We know we can do this with you on our side." Read more and check out a video here.
Phil Anselmo's Illegals Guitarist Found Out About Firing Online(TeamRock Radio)
Former Philip H Anselmo & The Illegals guitarist Marzi Montazeri says he found out he was no longer in the band "through the internet." Anselmo revealed in October that Montazeri had been replaced by Mike DeLeon and added that his intention was always to help launch Montazeri's career and allow him to work on projects in which he is the "focal point."
Now Montazeri says he hasn't spoken to any of the Illegals since finding out online that he had been replaced. He tells Do You Know Jack?: "I haven't spoken to any of them, and I found out through the internet that I wasn't in the band. But we're gonna leave it at that. I wish them the best. And I'm doing my thing, and there's no hard feelings, period. And if anything, I appreciate the fact that Philip gave me a chance so that the rest of the world could know who I am."
Montazeri appeared on the Illegals debut album Walk Through Exits Only, released in 2013. He is currently working with his own band, Heavy As Texas. Stream the full interview here.
The Ghost Inside Tour Bus Crash Benefit Announced(TeamRock Radio)
Epitaph Records and southern California music venue Chain Reaction have teamed up and will hold a fundraising event this coming weekend in aid of The Ghost Inside.
The group's bus collided with another vehicle in El Paso, Texas, leaving the bus driver and the driver of the other vehicle dead. The Ghost Inside's Andrew Tkaczykt, Jonathan Vigil and Zach Johnson were said to be in critical condition at University Medical Center after being airlifted from the scene. Their condition is said to be improving.
The label say on Instagram: "This Saturday, come on down to Chain Reaction in Anaheim for The Ghost Inside charity pop-up shop. All proceeds will benefit everyone involved in the recent accident. We'll have plenty of merch from your favorite Epitaph bands, so spread some love and we'll see you there." See the full post here.
The King Blues Reunite and Announce Tour With Enter Shikari(TeamRock Radio)
The King Blues have announced that they've reunited. They split in 2012, stating they had taken things as far as they could go. But Jonny 'Itch' Fox, Jamie Jazz and Mike 'Fruitbag' Payne are back and will support Enter Shikari on their The Mindsweep UK tour in February.
Enter Shikari frontman Rou Reynolds says: "The King Blues are such an important British band. With music influenced by many different genres and cultures, and lyrics that represent and reinforce the people. Its great to have them back.
"We had a blast when we toured together a few years back, so can't wait to go off gallivanting around the country with them again." The Wonder Years will also play on the tour. See the dates here.
Children Of Bodom Cancel Brussels Show Due To Terror Threat Level(TeamRock Radio)
Children Of Bodom have cancelled their November 29 show in Brussels due to the severity of the terror threat level in the city. The Belgian capital has been in a security lockdown since the Paris terror attacks on November 13, with authorities fearing a similar incident could happen in the city as several of the attackers were based in Brussels.
As a result, Children Of Bodom have been forced to call off their planned Sunday night show at the city's Ancienne Belgique venue. The group say in a statement: "You should know the venue did try everything to keep this show, including requesting extra security from the city, but that wasn't possible. We are grateful to them for trying.
"We are looking to try to get another show nearby and will let you know as soon as we have something, but you should refund your tickets to this show." Read more here.
Jimmy Page's Daughter Scarlet Opens Guitar Icons Exhibition(Classic Rock)
Scarlet Page, the daughter of Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page, has opened an exhibition of guitar icons in London. The collection entitled Resonators features portraits photographer Page has taken of musicians including Paul McCartney, Slash, Jeff Beck, Albert Lee, Brian May, Hank Marvin, Mark Knopfler, Wilko Johnson, Jack White, Joe Walsh and Justin Hawkins - and of her father.
She tells the BBC: "They were mostly shot at their homes or in their private spaces and I think somehow that comes across. By giving these guitarists a guitar to hold immediately dropped their defenses because they had something to do. It was about exploring that relationship between me and them and the thing that they love.
"I didn't have any fixed ideas - I just turned up at the place where we'd arranged to meet and then something evolved which is the way I like to do things." Read more here.
Tony MacAlpine 'Man In A Metal Cage' Live Video Released(Prog)
EMGTV have released a video of Tony MacAlpine performing his track Man In A Metal Cage. It features on his 12th solo album Concrete Gardens, released in April this year via Sun Dog Records.
He's joined onstage by drummer Aquiles Priester, bassist Pete Griffin and guitarist Nili Brosh. A benefit concert for MacAlpine, who's battling colon cancer, has been scheduled for December 12 at the Wiltern Theater, Los Angeles.
It'll feature performances from artists including Steve Vai, Mike Portnoy, John 5 and Zakk Wylde. An auction will take place on the night, with items from Vai, 5, Paul Gilbert, Joe Bonamassa, Steve Lukather, Steve Stevens and Joe Satriani up for grabs. Watch the video here.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer Extensive Reissue Campaign Planned By BMG(Prog)
Emerson, Lake & Palmer have signed over their back catalogue to BMG. This includes the rights to 17 of the supergroup's albums. As a result, BMG are planning to launch an extensive reissue campaign.
The new deal brings together contracts previously split between North America and Europe, with BMG now holding rights for the world, excluding South East Asia.
Also included in the deal are master tapes, demos, alternative versions, radio sessions, videos, rare photos, memorabilia and bootlegs. ELP manager Stewart Young says: "ELP and myself are looking forward to the opportunity of working with BMG. BMG shares our belief that these works should be treated with the upmost respect, with reissues which offer the kind of quality that our fans deserve." Read more here.
Sky Release 1983 Performance Video of 'Troika'(Prog)
A video of Sky's performance of Troika from 1983 has been released. The track features on their EP of the same name, which is set to be released on December 4.
The live clip was filmed for UK BBC TV programme The Val Doonican Christmas Show, and features on the CD/DVD reissue of the band's Cadmium album, which was released earlier this year.
Prior to the Troika EP launch, a 2CD collection entitled Toccata will be issued on Friday (November 27). It features the best of guitarists John Williams and Kevin Peek, keyboardists Steve Gray and Francis Monkman, bassist Herbie Flowers and percussionist Tristan Fry. Watch the video here.
Ghost Announce One-Off Show In London(Classic Rock)
Ghost have announced they'll play a one-off show at the London Palladium on March 2, 2016. They're currently on tour across Europe, and return to the UK next month for eight gigs in support of latest album Meliora.
The mysterious group will be hitting the road for more European tour dates in early 2016 - and the newly announced Palladium show will be their only stop in the UK.
The night is described as "the perfect opportunity to present a one-of-a-kind experience fully exploring the music, the visuals and the core elements they stand for." Read more here.
Corrosion Of Conformity Originally Wanted To Be Black Sabbath(TeamRock Radio)
Corrosion Of Conformity guitarist Woody Weatherman says he wanted the band to be Black Sabbath when they were starting out. But he says they played too fast to be compared to the metal icons.
He tells Metal Underground: "We were a bunch of hardcore kids. We loved Sabbath, Maiden, Scorpions, all that kind of sh*t, but we also loved Flag, Bad Brains.
"We were striving to be Black Sabbath, but we played everything 10 times faster. That was our gig back then. That was our thing." Pepper Keenan says their track Rednekkk which featured on their 1984 debut album Eye For An Eye was directly inspired by Ozzy Osbourne and co. Read more here.
Bring Me The Horizon Release Tour Diary Video(TeamRock Radio)
Bring Me The Horizon have released a tour diary video, shot in the US last month. It's the first in a series that promises to offer viewers a unique look at life on the road with Oli Sykes and co as they promote fifth album That's The Spirit.
In the clip BMTH discuss the changes they've seen in a decade of touring, and drummer Matt Nicholls says: "We're in a positive frame of mind these days."
The band this week donated $10,000 to a crowdfunding campaign set up to help The Ghost Inside after they were involved in a fatal tour bus crash. Their current UK tour continues until November 30, then they continue to Europe. Watch the video here.
Fall Out Boy Want To Score A Movie(TeamRock Radio)
Fall Out Boy say they'd love to record a film soundtrack at some point in the future. They wrote and recorded the track Immortals for the Disney movie Big Hero 6 in 2014 - and it's that collaboration that's whetted their appetite for similar work in the future.
Fall Out Boy Bassist Pete Wentz tells Billboard: "Big Hero 6 worked because this one specific thing worked in our world, so we'll see if any of that works."
And when asked if it's a direction they'd like to pursue, frontman Patrick Stump adds: "Oh yeah. We'd love that. Please, Disney, let us score a movie." Read more here.
Panic! At The Disco Lead Slam Dunk Festival Lineup(TeamRock Radio)
Panic! At The Disco are the first headliners to be announced for next year's Slam Dunk Festival. Of Mice And Men, New Found Glory, Four Year Strong, Every Time I Die, Issues, Memphis May Fire and Real Friends have also been confirmed as part of the lineup.
In the year the UK show celebrates its 10th anniversary, its Midlands leg will move to the Birmingham NEC. Slam Dunk founder and director, Ben Ray, says:
"I had no idea back then what I thought would be a one-off event would still be going now, let alone continue to grow to the size it has become." Read more here.
Dillinger Escape Plan Classic Gets String Quartet Makeover(TeamRock Radio) A New York-based string quartet have released their take on Dillinger Escape Plan's 43% Burnt. The track, which originally appeared on the band's 1999 debut album Calculating Infinity, was recorded by viola player Earl Maneein and his orchestral outfit seven)suns.
He's joined in the group by cellist Jennifer DeVore, and violinists Amanda Lo and Andie Tanning Springer. Maneein says: "This was our first run through of Dillinger Escape Plan's 43% Burnt. Note the pink balloons. Now that sh*t is hardcore."
Relapse Records and Party Smasher Inc have just released the first three Dillinger albums on vinyl: Calculating Infinity, Miss Machine and Ire Works. The band are currently working on their sixth album.
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Tim Abrigg Jr.'s Rock and Roll News Of The Day!: Today's Day In Rock News!
Tim Abrigg Jr.'s Rock and Roll News Of The Day!: Today's Day In Rock News!: David Lee Roth's Eat 'Em And Smile Band Reuniting For Special Show(hennemusic) The lineup featured on David Lee Roth...
Today's Day In Rock News!
David Lee Roth's Eat 'Em And Smile Band Reuniting For Special Show(hennemusic)
The lineup featured on David Lee Roth's 1986 debut full-length solo album, "Eat 'Em And Smile", will reunite for the first time in three decades to perform songs from the record with guest vocalist Ralph Saenz (a.k.a. Michael Starr of Steel Panther) in Hollywood on November 25.
Guitarist Steve Vai, bassist Billy Sheehan, drummer Gregg Bissonette and Seanz will play a free show at Lucky Strike Live as part of the club's "Ultimate Jam Night" series.
The Steel Panther frontman was the lead singer for the Roth-era Van Halen tribute band Atomic Punks from 1994 to 2008, where he had the nickname David Lee Ralph.
Roth released "Eat 'Em And Smile" in the summer of 1986 following his the success of his 1985 EP "Crazy From The Heat" and his departure from Van Halen that same year.
The album was previewed with the US Top 20 single "Yankee Rose", and hit No. 4 on the US Billboard 200 on its way to selling more than 2 million copies in the States alone. Read more here.
Bruce Springsteen Streaming Unreleased Song(hennemusic)
Bruce Springsteen has released a stream of the unreleased track "Party Lights" as a preview of his forthcoming 7-disc box set, "The Ties That Bind: The River Collection."
Due December 4, the project present material recorded for his 1980 double-album, "The River", which delivered the singer his first No. 1 US album on the Billboard 200 on its way to sales of more than 5 million copies in the States alone.
"We recorded and recorded and recorded and recorded," says Springsteen. "We were in the studio day after day after day, you know. I probably worked the hardest on some of things that ended up as outtakes…you never knew, I never knew. I didn't know where it was going."
The 4CD/3DVD package offers the original double album alongside "The Ties That Bind" - a 10-track album that Springsteen recorded in 1979 as a follow up to 1978's "Darkness On The Edge Of Town" but never released.
The set also includes 22 outtakes from the studio sessions alongside an hour-long documentary/interview with Springsteen and a legendary 1980 concert filmed at Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ.
The package adds a hardcover 148-page coffee table book containing 200 studio and live photographs plus memorabilia documenting the album and the era. Read more and stream the song here.
Stone Sour Streaming Cover Of Iron Maiden Classic(Classic Rock)
Stone Sour have released a stream of their cover version of the Iron Maiden classic Running Free, which appears on their forthcoming Straight Outta Burbank EP.
Frontman Corey Taylor had the following to say to Metal Hammer about the cover track, "If you're going to cover something, you want to go for the best. It's no secret that I'm a huge Maiden fan.
"Running Free had the spirit of what we were looking for - it's kick-ass, it's driving, it's got the Maiden guitar breaks." The Straight Outta Burbank EP is set to be released this week as part of Record Store Day's Black Friday campaign. Check out the song stream here.
Tool Star Gives Update On New Album's Progress(Radio.com)
Tool recently announced a short US tour, and now we're getting more details about the status of their long-awaited fifth studio album. Guitarist Adam Jones recently spoke with Rolling Stone about the recording's progress and process.
Jones says the band has about twenty ideas that they're currently working on, and when asked specifically if singer Maynard James Keenan had heard the material, he answered in the affirmative.
"Yeah. We have an FTP and a Dropbox and we're in communication. He's got other stuff he does, so we keep him in the loop, and he has written lyrics, but he's still working on that and he'll commit. The best thing for all of us is when the song is done. I don't write leads until the song is done. You want to get a vibe. And Maynard can work on lyrics, but until the song's done and he knows how the end is, he's still figuring out the flow."
"The thing with Tool is you have four critical thinkers who like different stuff, so our process is not an easy one but it's a very rewarding one. So yes, he is exposed to new music. It's always been this way and it probably will always be this way and it's just how people work."
He also shared his thoughts on Maynard's recent controversial comments about being conned into playing a Halloween show with the band. Read about that here.
Five Finger Death Punch Postpone Paris Concert
Five Finger Death Punch have postponed tonight's (November 24th) concert in Paris, France. This cancelation follows the band's decision to postpone Sunday night's show in Milan, Italy after a rumor surfaced that the show would be targeted for a terrorist attack.
The band had the following to say about the Paris postponement, "We are still on tour in Europe, and we are evaluating each show day by day. A lot of work and analysis goes into each decision. Since the events in Paris last week, the situation is still very chaotic - a lot of misinformation - and a lot of uncertainty in some places.
"But the most important factor is the safety of the fans which we are not willing to compromise. As a result, for now we will have to postpone the Paris show. Please stay tuned for more info."
The band still has three dates scheduled on the tour including a show in Germany on Wednesday (Nov. 25), Brussels on Thursday and London on Saturday.
U2 Reveal Rescheduled Paris Concerts And HBO Special(hennemusic)
U2 have announced the rescheduled dates for a pair of concerts they had scheduled in Paris that were cancelled following the November 13 terrorist attacks in the city.
The band will perform at the Accorhotels Arena in Bercy on December 6 and 7, with the second show filmed and broadcast December 7 on HBO at 9:00 p.m. ET.
"So much that was taken from Paris on the tragic night of November 13 is irreplaceable," said Bono, speaking from Dublin ahead of Monday's opening show of four in their hometown. "For one night, the killers took lives, took music, took peace of mind - but they couldn't steal the spirit of that city.
"It's a spirit our band knows well and will try to serve when we return for the postponed shows on December 6th and 7th. We're going to put on our best for Paris."
"The band wanted us to reschedule as soon as possible so that they could honor the commitment to their audience," added U2 Innocence + Experience tour promoter and producer Arthur Fogel. Read more here.
Scott Weiland Finds Touring Harder In Today's Industry(Classic Rock)
Scott Weiland admits life on the road appeals to him much less as he gets older. The former Stone Temple Pilots and Velvet Revolver frontman is on tour with his band Scott Weiland And The Wildabouts and, as much as he loves performing, he says the state of the music industry makes touring more of a necessity than it's ever been.
Weiland tells South Detroit Soundhouse: "It's way harder. We used to have marketing budgets of a couple of million dollars, now it's like $75,000. You have to spend a lot of time on the road to make up for the loss of income from selling records.
"I'm not as keen on it as I was when I was in my 20s, especially being happily married and not being able to see my kids and stepson as much. My wife comes out and visits me on the road for a week or two at a time. But this is a long tour, nine weeks, so I'm missing her a lot." Read more here.
The Ghost Inside Update Fans Following Fatal Tour Bus Crash(TeamRock Radio)
The Ghost Inside's bass player Jim Riley says the condition of the band members hurt in last week's fatal bus crash is improving. The group's bus collided with another vehicle in El Paso, Texas, leaving the bus driver and the driver of the other vehicle dead.
The Ghost Inside's Andrew Tkaczykt, Jonathan Vigil and Zach Johnson were said to be in critical condition at University Medical Center after being airlifted from the scene.
In an update posted on Facebook, Riley says: "The last 48 hours have seen everyone's condition improve. We are surrounded by lots of loved ones and the vibe today is very positive. Asking again that you keep sending good juju our way and keep the families of the two drivers that lost their lives in your thoughts.
"It will be a few more days before we share any individual details. If you've seen any of the pictures that are floating around you know the serious nature of the situation and hope you understand the need for a little privacy and discretion.
"The doctors here are phenomenal and we are in the most capable of hands. Thank you for the love and support. Life is swinging hard. We are swinging harder." Read more including Jim's full post here.
Fans Help All Shall Perish Singer's Daughter's Medical Treatment(TeamRock Radio)
All Shall Perish fans have rallied to raise funds for singer Craig Betit's infant daughter's medical bills. Betit's partner Meghan Murphy gave birth to Harper on November 15.
She was born with "vascular abnormalities" that required immediate attention and the band asked fans to help raise $2000 to pay for the treatment.
A GoFundMe page set up by Betit has already surpassed that target, bringing in $3100 so far. The surgery included a procedure to remove a growth from little Harper's hip.
Craig Betit says: "Harper's surgery went fantastic. The growth has been removed and the incision closed up. If all goes well we should be back home within 48 hours. Thank you everyone for your thoughts, prayers, kind words, and all-round support."
Tests are ongoing to uncover the exact details of the baby's condition, and the money raised will help the couple continue to make the long journeys for her treatment without being under extra financial strain. Read more including the full post from the band here.
No Devotion Release Permanent Sunlight Video(TeamRock Radio)
No Devotion have released a video for their track Permanent Sunlight. It's taken from the band's debut album Permanence, released in September via frontman Geoff Rickley's own label, Collect Records.
No Devotion were formed from the ashes of Lostprophets. On the video, the band say: "Every one of us had a hand in helping out, with our good friend Liza directing us.
"It was a really great experience. We're definitely gonna do another one soon - darker, more cinematic visuals perhaps. And, yes, we plan to get on the road again too." Watch the video here.
Lion Shepherd Streaming New Album Hiraeth Online(Prog)
Lion Shepherd have made their debut album available to stream via Prog. Hiraeth is out now via Glassville Records and the Polish band is led by vocalist Kamil Haidar and multi-instrumentalist Mateusz Owczarek.
Haidar says the band drew on influences from across the world for the album. He adds: "I love listening to artists from outside Europe and outside the US - from Israel, from North Africa, from the Middle East, from far Asia as well.
"This is tribal, ethnic and world music overall, it has such a big power and just to combine it with rock music, which is also very powerful, it's an explosion of emotions." Stream the album here.
Public Service Broadcasting To Live Stream Upcoming Concert(Prog)
Public Service Broadcasting have announced they'll stream their O2 Brixton Academy show in London on November 29. It'll be aired live via the O2 Academy Live website at 9pm.
The performance is one of three shows J Willgoose Esq and Wrigglesworth will play this month. They were forced to postpone five planned appearances in Edinburgh, Leeds, Liverpool, Nottingham and Norwich due to family issues.
Those dates will now take place in February. The duo have just released their Sputnik/Korolev EP and have issued Petar Dundov's remix of Sputnik from the record. Hear it here.
The Mute Gods Release 'Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me' Video(Prog)
The Mute Gods have released a video for their track Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me. It's the title track of bassist and vocalist Nick Beggs' latest project, also featuring drummer Marco Minnemann and keyboardist Roger King. Their debut album is set for release on January 22.
Two versions of the video have been released - a regular shoot and a 360 degree version directed by Crystal Spotlight for mobile devices. The album will arrive on a limited-edition digipak CD, gatefold 2LP with CD and digital download. Watch the video
Beggs says: "The track was inspired by the speeches of General Dwight D Eisenhower and his warning to the free world about the rise of the Independent Industrial Military Complex." Watch the videos here.
Fractal Mirror Announce New Album Slow Burn 1(Prog)
Fractal Mirror have announced that they'll release their third album entitled Slow Burn 1 in February. It's the follow-up to Garden Of Ghosts, which was released at the end of 2014.
The band's Leo Koperdraat says: "For the new album we tried to write more compact and focused songs with interesting lyrics. We spent a lot of time and energy on the arrangements.
Brett Kull plays a crucial role again, adding guitars, keyboards and his unique background vocals. Despite the fact that the songs are more focused the progressive rock influences are still very much in place." Read more here.
Adam Lambert Studied Freddie Mercury Videos For Queen Gig(Classic Rock)
Adam Lambert watched as many Freddie Mercury video clips as he could find online before singing with Queen, he's revealed. The American Idol finalist has been performing alongside Brian May and Roger Taylor since 2011. They're currently touring North America then play the UK and Europe in January.
Lambert tells Absolute Radio: "I did some studying. I felt I really needed to. I was pretty familiar with them, but when I first started working with them, that's when I went onto the internet and scoured everything."
He adds a Mercury performance in Montreal stood out. "He's running around in shorts, with no shoes on. Watching him in that zone really made me understand him.
"He just didn't give a sh*t. He was like, 'I'm going to do whatever I want.' I think he kind of defined what a rock star was to me. He doesn't actually care - and he's so fabulous doing it." Read more here.
Blessthefall Frontman Promises No Drastic Changes In Sound(TeamRock Radio)
Blessthefall frontman Beau Bokan says the band will never stray too far from their signature sound. While discussing the notable addition of "lighter" material on their two most recent albums, 2013's Hollow Bodies and this year's To Those Left Behind, Bokan admits the band will always look to evolve.
But he insists there will be no "drastic change" when they eventually get to work on their sixth album. On what dictates the direction of new material, he tells Substream: "It depends where we're at as artists and musicians at that point in time because we started writing To Those Left Behind a year ago. At this point right now, we're not really thinking about writing. So when we do start writing it, it'll be interesting to see what we're influenced by at the time.
"We're always going to be Blessthefall, it's always going to be our sound. We're not going to turn into something crazy. It won't be a drastic change, I don't want to say that. You'll always be able to tell it's us.
"We had such a great time making this album, and doing Hollow Bodies has opened up a few doors for us and we've been exploring some new sounds here and there. Then this record, we just kept with that." Read more here.
Matt Grocott & The Shrives Release Turn Me On Video(TeamRock Radio)
Punk outfit Matt Grocott & The Shrives have released a video for their single Turn Me On. The British band's debut album Back In The Morrow was produced by Green Day's Billie Joe Armstrong, who was turned on to the group by his son Joey.
Joey Armstrong ended up playing drums on the album, with his dad laying down bass tracks. Joey Armstrong says: "Working on this project was super rad for me. I'm a musician who wants to be in the studio and I got lucky with Matt and Josh who both write killer songs. I learned the songs in the studio right before we recorded and it felt natural.
"These songs have influences from older bands and I listened to a lot of Elvis Costello's drummer Pete Thomas to get a vibe for what I wanted to do. I'm really excited with how they turned out and can't wait for people to hear them." Watch the video here.
More Matt Grocott News - Matt Grocott Music, DVDs, Books and more - Matt Grocott T-shirts and Posters
Creeper Announce 2016 UK Headline Tour(TeamRock Radio) Creeper have announced that they will be launching a 12-date headline UK tour in early 2016. They also head out on the road for further dates with Neck Deep in 2016.
Creeper will be embarking on the tours in support of their EP The Callous Heart, which was released in September after they signed a deal with Roadrunner Records.
The band say: "We are so excited to announce today that next year we will be heading out on our first-ever headline tour. What's better still is that we have our best friends Grader joining us. I hope you're all as excited as we are." See the dates here.
Deal Made For Shrapnel Records' Back Catalogue(Classic Rock)
The Orchard have snapped up the rights to Shrapnel Records' back catalogue, it's been announced. As part of the deal, The Orchard will oversee physical and digital distribution of Shrapnel's 322 album archive, which includes music by Marty Friedman, Yngwie Malmsteen, Richie Kotzen, Tony MacAlpine, Greg Howe, Jason Becker and Vinnie Moore.
Shrapnel Records' founder Mike Varney says: "The distribution landscape has changed dramatically in the last 10 years, requiring greater staffing with expertise in digital distribution.
"Although the Shrapnel Label Group will continue making new records, the expanded distribution and accompanying administration of the back catalog was something we felt could be best served by a larger company."
He continues: "As a pioneer in digital distribution with a tremendous track record of more than 15 years, The Orchard was in a stronger position to effectively realize this for our catalogue." Read more here.
Singled Out: Cage's Across the Sea of Madness
Cage frontman Sean Peck tells us the story behind the song "Across the Sea of Madness" and the short film for the track, which comes from their brand new album "Ancient Evil". Here is the story:
This song was a crucial part of the ANCIENT EVIL storyline. The guitar players had most of the music to the song already composed when I came into the track. Normally we write all together but this one was mostly together.
Since we were writing an epic horror concept story I had the feeling this was the one for this part of the story that took place on the high seas. I had envisioned that this song had a big ship on the sea with the classic lightning and heavy seas crashing vibe. The speed of it made it the perfect combination.
We added this killer black metal voice section in the middle. That added the creepy vibe that was needed to make this song extra horrific. I think that the opening scream sets the tone for the thrashing that is to come. The intro plodding part was also kind of different from what we normally do and sets up the speed fest nicely.
Once we had our meetings with the record label about which of the 14 songs we would choose to make the music video, although I had a different idea, they unanimously choose this song. It would be the first real music video we had ever done and it came out better than even I had imagined it. For those of you who have not seen it, check it out. It looks like we did a song for the movie ANCIENT EVIL movie and not the other way around!
Hearing is believing. Now that you know the story behind the song, listen for yourself as you watch the video here and learn more about the album right here!
Eagles Of Death Metal Documentary Pulled From Film Festival(TeamRock Radio)
Screenings of an Eagles Of Death Metal documentary have been cancelled at a film festival in the Netherlands following last week's terror attacks in Paris.
The Redemption Of The Devil was due to debut at the International Documentary Film Festival, which runs in Amsterdam from November 18 to 29. The film follows the band on the lead-up to the release of latest album Zipper Down.
The BBC reports that the film was pulled as the timing felt inappropriate after the band's show at the Bataclan in the French capital last week was the scene of a deadly terror attack in which 89 people were killed as part of a wider operation which saw a total of 130 murdered in Paris. Extremist group IS claimed responsibility for the assault.
Meanwhile, EODM's cover of Duran Duran track Save A Prayer reached no.53 in the UK Singles Chart after fans launched a campaign to get it to number one. Organiser say that, despite not hitting their goal, they are thrilled with the international response.
A statement on the Eagles Of Death Metal For No.1 Facebook page reads: "No.1 in the Rock Chart in 11 countries, no.1 in the Worldwide Rock Chart, no.1 in Portugal Main Chart, no.1 in the Amazon UK Main Chart and no.53 in the actual chart we were originally trying for.
"But what a glorious failure, look what we achieved around the globe and not forgetting that all of the royalties proceeds will be donated by Duran Duran to a worthy and unifying cause. We weren't expecting other countries' fans to get involved so it's been a wonderful and welcome surprise. Here's to those who went out to have a good time in Paris and never came home." Read more here.
Trivium Frontman Tried To Keep Black Metal Band Anonymous(TeamRock Radio)
Trivium frontman Matt Heafy says his black metal side-project Mrityu was meant to be a secret before the cat got out of the bag. Heafy is working with ex Emperor mainman Ihsahn on the project and says it will be "a dream come true" when the material sees the light of day.
He tells Revolver: "Mrityu was initially intended to be a black metal band that I was never going to tell anybody I was in. I was going to make the music, and it was going to be pretty true to the 90s second wave-style-black metal - sort of like Darkthrone, early Dimmu Borgir, early Emperor. But while Mrityu has its roots in black metal, it's become something so much more. It's not just black metal - it's anything I've ever wanted to try.
"Ihsahn from Emperor will be producing it, and he's co-written several songs with me. We'll also be recording it in Notodden, Norway, where all the Emperor records were done." Read more here.
Bernie Marsden Leads Larry Miller Benefit Show Lineup
The Blues Bernie Marsden will lead the lineup of a January benefit show for Larry Miller, who suffered a stroke in August. The benefit show takes place on January 15 at the Stables, Milton Keynes.
Miller's band will be joined by Mardsen, Del Bronham and others. It will focus on the music of those who provided Miller's main inspiration, including Rory Gallagher, Jimi Hendrix and Gary Moore.
Veteran guitarist Miller was forced to cancel a European tour after he was left with a paralyzed right arm and robbed of the ability to walk. Since then he's made progress with the help of specialist - and he's vowed to play guitar again. Read more here.
Horror Icon John Carpenter To Headline ATP's Release The Bats Fest(Prog)
Horror icon John Carpenter will headline next year's ATP Halloween event Release The Bats. The All Tomorrow's Parties-run event takes place at The Albert Hall, Manchester on October 29 and London's The Troxy on October 31, 2016 - with gig-goers invited to dress up for the occasion.
Director and screenwriter Carpenter will perform a musical retrospective of his horror soundtrack work, his debut studio album Lost Themes, plus new material at the shows.
Apart from his recent foray into commercial music Carpenter has directed and scored iconic films including 1978's Halloween, 1980's The Fog and 1983's Christine. Read more and see the event poster here.
Mantra Vega Announce Debut Album The Illusion's Reckoning(Prog)
Mantra Vega, the project featuring former Mostly Autumn singer Heather Findlay and Dave Kerzner, will release their debut album The Illusion's Reckoning on January 25.
It features guest appearances from Nightwish's Troy Donockley and Ayreon mastermind Arjen Lucassen, who plays the solo on the album's title track. Findlay says: "Having written and sung for this musical genius both in the past in Ayreon and working with him again recently for The Theater Equation, it made perfect sense to ask him to contribute a solo for the album, for which he has worked his usual spine chilling, other-worldly magic. We now have all mixes with only a few minor tweaks to go before completion."
The lineup is completed by guitarists Chris Johnson and Dave Kilminster, bassist Stu Fletcher, drummer Alex Cromarty, vocalists Irene Jansen and Angela Gordon and Remko de Landmeter on Bansuri. Check out a video here.
Rhys Marsh Releasing Surprise Solo Album(Prog)
Rhys Marsh has announced a surprise solo album due for release on December 1. The Black Sun Shining will be issued via Autumnsongs Records and features a 42-minute song-cycle, in seven movements, which Marsh says is "intended to be listened to as one piece of music."
Marsh had the following to say, "I wasn't planning to make another album just yet, but I had a bit of time between projects in the studio and I came up with a few ideas.
"So I set up some microphones and spent seven days running back and forth, recording as I was writing. It was a lot of fun, and I quite often began with the rhythms, rather than chords, which is something I haven't tried before."
Thursday, November 19, 2015
Tim Abrigg Jr.'s Rock and Roll News Of The Day!: Today's Day In Rock News!
Tim Abrigg Jr.'s Rock and Roll News Of The Day!: Today's Day In Rock News!: Motley Crue's Tommy Lee Returning To Farewell Tour(hennemusic) Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee says he has fully recovered fr...
Today's Day In Rock News!
Motley Crue's Tommy Lee Returning To Farewell Tour(hennemusic)
Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee says he has fully recovered from a tendonitis injury that sidelined him for five shows on the band's farewell tour last month and that he will rejoin the group when they resume live shows in Helsinki, Finland on November 18.
"I'm back to 100 per cent," Lee tells The National. "I bruised a bone in my wrist, but after a serious double dose of cortisone that helped with the inflammation, and with the help of this little wrist machine to exercise it, I'm back to normal."
"I'm always getting injuries like bruised and bloody knuckles from catching a cymbal or the edge of a drum," he adds. "Drumming's pretty physical. We sit at the back of the stage getting beat up like a workhorse.
"Anytime you do something repetitive over a sustained period - and this tour's already been a year and a half - your body just says 'I'm hurt. I can't do this.' But I'm all good now. They got me back into shape."
Lee was first diagnosed with the injury to his left wrist in Buffalo, NY on October 14 and was pulled from the show on doctor's orders. Read more here.
Lamb Of God Concert Canceled Due To Terrorist Attacks
Lamb Of God and Children Of Bodom's concert that was scheduled to take place tonight (November 19th in Tilburg, Netherlands has been canceled due to security concerns following the terrorist attacks in Paris.
The promoter of the Lamb Of God concert released a statement explaining the show was canceled because of the terrorist attack at the Eagles Of Death Metal show in Paris last Friday, November 13th and a terrorist threat in Germany this week.
Here is what the promoter had to say, "Because of the attacks on Paris last Friday that also took place in a music venue, a lot of stress is caused for bands playing in Europe.
"Combined with the terrorist threat that took place in Hannover, Germany last night, the bands are feeling to big a pressure to give the performance the audience is used from them and have decided to cancel their shows tonight. As of now, it is unknown if the bands will return for a replacement show later on."
Rush's Alex Lifeson Says Last Tour Didn't Feel Like Their Last(Classic Rock)
Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson says their recent North American run of shows wasn't long enough and didn't feel like a true finish to their live career. He, Geddy Lee and Neil Peart hit the road throughout the summer in what's thought to be the band's last large-scale tour.
And Lifeson says although he went into the 35-date trek thinking it would indeed be their last, he's now not so sure. He tells Prog: "I don't know if I do still feel that way now. I thought the tour was great. I thought we played really well, the turnout was fantastic, I thought the set was great, the songs we chose were right.
"There was so much about it that was so positive and I think going into it there was the thought that this is the last one - a nice way to go out on top. But once we were in the middle of it or even towards the end of it, it seemed like it was just too short."
He continues: "I just wish we'd been able to do another 20 shows or so and it's too bad that we're going to miss the UK particularly. It just feels a little shy of a true finish, a complete resolution. But if that's the way it is, then we'll adjust to it." Read more here.
Michael Schenker Group Singer Killed In Traffic Accident(Classic Rock)
Former Michael Schenker Group frontman David VanLanding has died in a traffic accident, it's been announced. The news of his death was confirmed by his family, while Schenker gave further details on the cause of his passing.
A family statement reads: "The immediate family of Dave VanLanding asks for your understanding and respect as we deal with the loss of David. The family will make an announcement once more details are known and arrangements are made. He was a great friend and touched so many millions of lives through his music and his kindness."
VanLanding joined Mannekin in the 80s and following their split in 1990, went out on the road with Tony MacAlpine on his Eyes Of The World tour. The singer took up vocal coaching before hooking up with Crimson Glory for live dates in 1993. He went on to form Erotic Liquid Culture before auditioning for the Michael Schenker Group in the mid-90s.
He did three tours with MSG and appeared on 1997 double album The Michael Schenker Story Live, recorded on the band's tour of Japan the same year. Read Schenker's statement here.
Fleetwood Mac Are Too Old To Rock Says Grace Slick(Classic Rock)
Former Jefferson Airplane vocalist Grace Slick says Fleetwood Mac are too old to rock'n'roll - but she has no problem with the Rolling Stones continuing.
And she's taken a pot-shot at her own later career, saying she should have left Starship a decade before she finally did. She retired in 1989, aged 50, and she's frequently argued that musicians who choose to perform rock and rap should bow out at a similar age.
Now Slick tells WENN: "There's something about old people singing rock'n'roll lyrics that bothers me - it just doesn't match. I saw a film of Fleetwood Mac doing something, and I was okay as long as I didn't look at them. I couldn't look at them. They sounded great, and if I looked away and imagined young people singing I was okay with it."
She continues: "The only so-called old people I've seen that I thought 'that still works' is the Rolling Stones. They did a thing that was filmed in a park in Great Britain, and the way they acted, the way they sang, the musicianship, just worked really well." She goes on to slam her former band Starship, read that here.
Bruce Springsteen Tour Speculation Heating Up(Radio.com)
Earlier this week Bruce Springsteen revealed that he'll be returning to Saturday Night Live for the third time in three decades to perform as musical guest next month.
With his box set, The Ties That Bind: The River Collection, being released a few weeks before he hits SNL, it's a safe bet that that's what he'll be promoting.
But fans are now speculating that Springsteen may be using the SNL appearance not just to support the box set, but to announce or support an upcoming tour.
Stan Goldstein, author of the Bruce Blog on NJ.com says he's hearing that live performances may not be too far off. "Look for Bruce to announce dates for a two- to three-month E Street Band tour that will start sometime in December," Goldstein tells Wicked Local.
It's also worth mentioning that at last week's Stand Up For Heroes benefit in New York, one of the prizes that was auctioned was tickets to an E Street Band concert, and a pre-show dinner with the E Street Band.
In the meantime, you can check out what the E Street Band used to look like, in a video from the upcoming box set here.
Mogwai Part Ways With John Cummings(Prog)
Guitarist John Cummings has left Mogwai, the band have confirmed. He joined Stuart Braithwaite and co in 1995 and appeared on their 1997 debut album Young Team and went on to appear on the band's subsequent releases, including last year's six-track EP Music Industry 3. Fitness industry 1.
The band had the following to say in a statement about his departure "We are sad to announce that John Cummings has decided to leave Mogwai to pursue his own musical projects.
"We will continue as a four piece of Dominic Aitchison, Stuart Braithwaite, Martin Bulloch and Barry Burns and shall be joined on our upcoming live shows by Scott Paterson and Luke Sutherland." Read more here.
Puscifer Release 'The Remedy' Video(Prog)
Puscifer have released a video for their track The Remedy. It features on Maynard James Keenan and co's third studio album entitled Money Shot, released last month via their own label Puscifer Entertainment.
Last month, Tool and A Perfect Circle's Keenan told Metal Hammer how the music industry's decline made it harder for Puscifer to make a name for themselves.
He said: "From the time we started recording our first album until we released it, the industry disappeared. So Puscifer, as an independent band, we've fought an uphill battle to develop an identity. Because there's no longer that machine to plop us in front of you to say 'this is a thing.'
"You don't see it because there's no longer that beaten-path formula. We're not in Billboard, so we don't exist. We don't exist to most people because we don't appear in those boring, archaic spaces." Watch the video here.
Keith Richards Releases 'Love Is Overdue' Video(hennemusic)
Keith Richards has released a video for his cover of the Gregory Isaacs classic "Love Is Overdue." Isaacs scored his first Jamaican number one single with the tune in 1974.
Renamed "Love Overdue" by the Rolling Stones guitarist, it's the latest single from his solo album "Crosseyed Heart." Richards' first solo album in more than 20 years sees him reteam with drummer Steve Jordan and guitarist Waddy Wachtel for the project and joined by Stones backup singer Bernard Fowler, keyboardist Ivan Neville, singer Sarah Dash and other guests.
Richards and The Rolling Stones may regroup next month to begin writing and recording sessions for a new album ahead of January rehearsals for their first South American tour in a decade.
The 12-date América Latina Olé tour will begin in Santiago, Chile on February 3 and include multiple shows in Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo. Watch the new video here.
David Bowie Release 'Blackstar' Details In Teaser Video(Radio.com)
David Bowie has released the art work for his upcoming album Blackstar. A 15 second psychedelic black and white video clip was unveiled on Wednesday (Nov. 18) on Bowie's Facebook page. At the end of the short video, the artwork is revealed as well as the effort's release date January 8, 2016.
Bowie's new single can be heard on the clip as well. The track which goes by the symbol '★" and is pronounced 'Blackstar," will be released tomorrow (Nov. 19) along with a short film directed by Johan Renck. A video for the song will also premiere tomorrow around the globe at 3:50pm ET with a U.S. broadcast premiere on Palladia.
Blackstar will be released on January 8, 2016, which marks Bowie's 69th birthday and the three year anniversary of his last album, 2013's The Next Day. Watch the video here.
Tedeschi Trucks Band Announce New Album 'Let Me Get By'(The Blues)
Tedeschi Trucks Band will release third album Let Me Get By in January, they've confirmed. Let Me Get By is released on January 29 via Fantasy/Concord.
It's guitarist Derek Trucks' first work since his 15-year career with the Allman Brothers Band ended last year, and it's the first time he and wife Susan Tedeschi have written every track for a release.
Trucks says: "What I hear in the music is this feeling that we're now putting 100% of what we have into this band - not going back to anything else, everyone giving it their all." More details here.
Marillion Announce Unconventional Documentary(Classic Rock)
Marillion will release a documentary entitled Unconventional early next month. It'll feature live action, in-depth interviews and show behind-the-scenes footage as the band prepared for the trio of performances.
It was filmed in the lead up to their 2015 Marillion Weekend at Port Zelande, the Netherlands, in March where they played three sets and performed 2001 album Anoraknophobia and 2004's Marbles in their entirety.
The band say: "This is not just a backstage view, it's also an exploration of how Marillion has endured and prospered in an increasingly challenging industry, how the band feel about their music, their reinvention of the music business, their lives, and of the unique relationship that Marillion has with its fans."
The DVD, Blu-ray is available for pre-order and is expected to be released in early December. Watch the trailer and read more here.
Pop Evil Release 'Ways To Get High' Video(Classic Rock)
Pop Evil have released a video for their song Ways To Get High, a track their fifth album entitled Up, which was launched earlier this year via eOne Music. It's the follow-up to 2013's Onyx.
The US outfit previously released the tracks Footsteps and In Disarray from their latest studio work. Frontman Leigh Kakaty said of the album: "We want to do our part to remind people that rock and roll is alive and well. It's OK to be you, to be yourself. We don't have to do what everyone expects us to do, we're not going to put out singles and albums that people expect us to do."
"We're going to write music that we feel we can bring on stage and make the most of it, and hopefully give our fans the best live experience they can have."
Pop Evil will head back out on the road this month on a North American tour. Watch the new video here.
Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals Announce Comeback Album(The Blues)
Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals will release their first album in eight years on April 8, they've confirmed. The new album, "Call It What It Is," is the follow-up to 2007's Grammy-nominated Lifeline
Call It What It Is is described as "an incisive, bold, poetic statement that could only come from one of popular music's most essential, cohesive and dynamic ensembles."
Recording sessions came after a successful reunion tour earlier this year. The outfit will embark on another extensive run of shows in New Zealand, Australia, the US and Canada ahead of its release.
Harper recently said: "Making music again with the Innocent Criminals has been a priority for a while now. I was time." Check out a promo video here.
DevilDriver Announce New Album 'Trust No One'(TeamRock Radio)
DevilDriver will return with seventh album Trust No One on May 13, they've announced. It follows 2013's Winter Kills and it's their first with guitarist Neal Tiemann and drummer Austin D'Amond, after the departures of Jeff Kendrick and John Boecklin last year.
The band had been on hiatus while mainman Dez Fafara worked with Coal Chamber on their reunion release, Rivals. Fafara says: "Trust No One is filled with killer riffs, groove after groove and massive hooks.
"It's rightly named - there will be explanation needed regarding what the title means. The lyrics are volatire and straight to the point. See you next year on tour." Read more here.
The Used Announce 15th Anniversary Tour(TeamRock Radio)
The Used have announced details of a 15th anniversary tour in 2016. They plan on playing two shows in every city they visit and will perform their 2002 self-titled debut on the first night, then 2004's In Love And Death on the following date.
The run of 46 shows starts at the O2 Academy, Leeds, on February 20, and wraps up at Club Nokia, Los Angeles, on May 28. The band say: "What better way to celebrate than to bring you two nights of music in 23 cities across the US, UK and Europe. Come help us relive these moments together."
Tickets go on general sale on Friday (November 20) at 10am local time via the band's website. Each online purchase will come with a download of their album Live And Acoustic At The Palace, featuring a four-piece string section and gospel choir. The album won't be available anywhere else until April 1, 2016. See the dates here.
Anvil Announce New Album 'Anvil Is Anvil'(Classic Rock)
Anvil will release their 16th album Anvil Is Anvil on February 26. The follow-up to 2013's Hope In Hell will be issued via SPV/Steamhammer and comes on the back of the band's successful PledgeMusic campaign.
It was the first time guitarist and vocalist Steve 'Lips' Kudlow, drummer Robb Reiner and bassist Chris Robertson used crowdfunding. But they said earlier this year the time was right to explore an alternative way to raise cash.
They said: "After years of having record labels being in between the band and our fans, we're finally at a point in our history to directly connect. Considering that almost anyone aware of Anvil knows our long and sometimes brutal history, we're hoping you would be honored to help and prove us right in our belief in you." Read more here.
Simon Godfrey Announces 1st Release In Digital Archive EP Series(Prog)
Simon Godfrey is gearing up to release a series of digital archive EPs, made up of material written over the past 20 years. The first installment, Black Bag Archive (Volume 1), is to be launched on November 30, containing six previously unreleased tracks.
Godfrey says: "Into Idle Fury was going to be the lead cut from the fourth Tinyfish album that never was. 2nd Bravest In The Queue was put together in California a couple of weeks back. Ghost Train is an outtake from The Big Red Spark sessions. Weak Machine (Original Demo) was recorded literally inside a closet in Lambeth.
"Papaya Whip was recorded in two sessions almost five years apart - I must have been listening to Brian Eno by the sound of it. Wear My Name is probably one of the bleakest lyrics I've ever written."
He adds: "If all goes according to plan, there will be a free bonus track too, featuring yours truly and a progtastic guest." He's released a short video trailer to introduce the Black Bag Archive concept. Watch it here.
We Are Scientists and 65daysofstatic Lead Handmade Festival Lineup(Prog)
We Are Scientists and 65daysofstatic will headline next year's Handmade Festival in Leicester, England. More bands will be named soon for the weekend event that takes place at the city's O2 Academy from April 29 to May 1.
The independent festival was created by Maybeshewill guitarist John Helps, and with the help of other artists it's grown to become a multi-arts experience, featuring music, comedy, film, photography and more.
Helps says: "Handmade is a DIY festival, created and curated with a real love and attention to detail. It has to beg, borrow and steal in order to exist - but consequently it's been easy for the whole city's creative community to get behind and drive it forward together." Read more here.
Threshold Looks Back On Headbangers Ball Disappointment(Prog)
Richard West has taken fans on a journey through Threshold's back catalogue as they celebrate the release of live album European Journey. The double live package was released last week via Nuclear Blast and was recorded during the band's November 2014 tour in support of For The Journey.
Two videos featuring keyboard player West discussing all the English group's studio albums have been released. And while talking about the band's 1994 second album Psychedelicatessen, he recalls one of many "missed opportunities" to take their career to the next level.
West says: "We were off doing a show in Belgium, a big festival with Whitesnake. The MTV crew were there and for some reason we were on a bus with them.
They said we had to do a video for this song Innocent and they would put it on Headbangers Ball. So we rushed home after the show and put together this video. We thought, 'This is it, this is out big launching pad. We're gonna be on TV and be a big global band.'
"We sent off the video then we heard that week that Headbangers Ball had been axed. The first of many missed opportunities of Threshold." Watch the videos here.
Black Tusk Announce New Album And Stream First Song(TeamRock Radio)
Black Tusk will launch their fifth studio album entitled Pillars Of Ash on January 29 and they've streamed the track God's On Vacation from the album featuring the late Jonathan Athon.
This album will be the band's first material released since the death of founding bassist Jonathan Athon, who died from injuries sustained in a motorcycle crash in 2014 and the US outfit have confirmed that the follow-up to 2011's Set The Dial will feature Athon's final recordings.
The album is available for pre-order in green and gold colored vinyl, black vinyl, CD and in a t-shirt bundle pack via Relapse Records' online store. Stream the song and see the track details here.
District 97 Crowdfunding Upcoming Tour(Prog)
District 97 have launched a crowdfunding campaign to assist with paying for their planned UK tour in March and a series of mainland Europe dates in April of next year.
It follows the announcement of a new lineup, with bassist Tim Seisser and keyboardist Andrew Lawrence replacing Patrick Mulcahy and Rob Clearfield respectively.
The band last year funded the release of third album 'In Vaults' with the support of fans. District 97 say: "All the puzzle pieces are in place and we are ready to come play for you. The question becomes, how can we do this without losing our necks?
"Back when the music industry was booming, record labels used to bankroll world tours and provide bands with booking agents who would sort out all the particulars. That model has all but evaporated.
"So we humbly come before you yet again, and ask that you join us in helping us spread District 97 music near and far. Your pledge will help us thrive as a band and significantly widen our fan base - which can lead to more opportunities in the future)." Read more here.
Singled Out: The Fox & The Hounds' How The Other Half Live
Kendel Lester from Chicago genre-benders The Fox & the Hounds tells us the story behind their song "How The Other Half Live," which comes from their forthcoming "Peachy Keen" EP. Here is the story:
"How The Other Half Live" is a song about money, power and the disassociation that comes with achieving it. I wrote it while in a heavy listening rotation of Amanda Palmer, the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs and a Netflix binge session of Mad Men with the end result being a poppy, sardonic concoction of the three.
I think like most people, I live with a somewhat persistent financial struggle-doing fine but never doing great. As a result, this song turned into a bitter-tinged fantasy, dreaming about a life of ease and infinite pleasure, but concerned with what parts of myself might get erased in the process. In our society there seems to be a strong influential voice that says "money makes you happy, power makes you happy, more things make you happy" but at what cost? What happens to our humanity and our empathy? What do we have to sacrifice in order to attain more things? These are the kind of topics I wanted to subtly explore under the façade of bright pop chords and candy coated harmonies.
While recording the songs for our new EP, Peachy Keen, we were lucky enough to score ourselves a producer who seemed to really understand what we were trying to achieve. A lot of the songs have a sense of dichotomy between the chord structures and the genuine words and intention- it's actually why we chose the name "peachy keen", a phrase that sounds shiny and sweet, but is often said with sarcasm and cynicism. This divisiveness is especially prevalent in the 1940s style throwback to Jule Styne's "Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend" that takes place during the bridge of How The Other Half Live. I remember watching a scene from Mad Men were Jon Hamm's character upon finishing a picnic, picks up the blanket and then lets the leftover food, paper plates and plastic ware just fly away in the wind. I was struck by how wasteful, careless it was and how oblivious he was to it. So when I was deciding where the song should go, my mind kept coming back to that moment. It just seemed fitting to let the song echo an era where women were valued for beauty and domesticity, the amount of new technology acquired was equal to stature, and where waste and disregard were the status quo - really not a far cry from where we are now.
With that being said, at the end of the day, the song is fun. It's a fantasy world with bright baubles and bells filled with brassy horns, glittering diamonds and perhaps a few pipe dreams.
We recently won a local contest for How The Other Half Live and are in the process of filming a fully produced music video from Big Teeth Productions out later this year. Peachy Keen comes out December 5th with a release show at Chicago landmark, Subterranean.
Hearing is believing. Now that you know the story behind the song, listen for yourself here and learn more about the group and the EP right here!
The Dead Weather Reveal Black Friday Special Release Plans(BH)
The Dead Weather have revealed their special plans for this year's Black Friday Record Store Day event. The band lead by Jack White will be playing Black Friday Four Card Draw with their fans. We were sent the following details:
On November 27th, a limited amount of special edition signed Dead Weather playing cards featuring the band as the King, Queen, Jack and Joker will be randomly inserted in to Dodge and Burn vinyl LP's at select indie retailers in the US and at the grand opening of Third Man Records Detroit.
Signed playing cards will also be randomly included in ThirdManStore.com orders of the Dodge and Burn LP from Black Friday through Sunday, November 29th.
Guided By Voices' Robert Pollard Streaming New Years Day SongGuided By Voices'
Robert Pollard has released a stream of his New Years-themed song "What Begins On New Years Day" which will be part of Amazon Music's holiday playlist.
"What Begins On New Years Day" follows Sondre Lerche & Jherek Bischoff's "Surviving Christmas" as the second track premiered from the playlist which will be released by Amazon on November 20th for free purchase and for free streaming for Prime members.
More than 25 artists will be featured on the playlist including Rogue Wave, YACHT, Anna von Hausswolff, Ivan & Alyosha, SOAK, Langhorne Slim and more, singing newly writing holiday songs or new renditions of holiday classics. Check out Pollard's song here.
The Easthills Release 'Mothers & Fools' Video Ft. Nada Surf's Doug Gillard(Bohlsen)
The Easthills have released a music video for their new single "Mothers & Fools" which featured a guest appearance from acclaimed indie rock guitarist Doug Gillard (Guided by Voices, Nada Surf).
The new single comes from the group's forthcoming sophomore album, "Fear and Temptation," which they will release in 2016. The track is available via the band's website TheEasthills.com and CD Baby ahead of its release at leading digital retailers. We were sent the following additional details:
Gillard plays on six of the new album's songs. A guitarist, songwriter and solo artist, he has played with artists including Guided By Voices, Nada Surf, Lifeguards, Death Of Samantha, Gem, Bambi Kino, Sally Crewe, Mascott and many more. "We are truly grateful for Doug's contributions to some of the new songs on our new record. He is a longtime hero of our band and now a mentor and friend," said The Easthills' Hank Campbell.
The Easthills also have a series of shows lined up in November including Sunday, November 22 with Cheap Trick in Terre Haute, Ind., and two shows with the Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band on Friday, November 27 in Indianapolis and Saturday, November 28 in Cincinnati. Tickets for all three shows are on sale now.
Arcade Messiah Streaming New Song 'Read The Sky'(Prog)
Arcade Messiah's track Read The Sky has been made available to stream. It's taken from the second album from KingBathmat mainman John Bassett's side project. Arcade Messiah II is released on November 27 via Stereohead Records and can be pre-ordered now.
It follows last year's debut Arcade Messiah release. Bassett says: "After the surprise success of last year's original Arcade Messiah album, and after receiving feedback from fans of that album, I decided to make a sequel.
"It's a continuation of that album, that is hopefully bigger, better, more refined and more dramatic, but which didn't lose the vibe and atmosphere that was created on the original album." Check out the stream here.
Nashville Pussy Announce North American Tour(Freeman)
Nashville Pussy have announced that they will be hitting the road again on a North American tour including headline shows and in November and December and then will hit the road supporting Reverend Horton Heat in January.
The band will be launching the treks in support of their recently released "Ten Years of Pussy," a retrospective album of the bands ten years of working with SPV/Steamhammer.
Up The Dosage (2014), featuring bassist Bonnie Buitrago, has been called "Nashville Pussy's Back In Black" and was Pick Of The Week on That Metal Show.
From Hell To Texas (2009) was recorded at Willie Nelson's studio in Texas and featured some of the band's strongest songwriting to date. And Get Some (2005), was the first SPV release and the first collaboration with Daniel Rey, and has more hooks than a hillbilly's tackle box.
The bonus live CD includes the version of Nutbush City Limits with special guest Ron Heathman from The Supersuckers on guitar. See the tour dates here.
Eagles Of Death Metal Speak Out About Paris Terrorist Attack
The Eagles Of Death Metal have released a statement following the terrorist attack at their concert in Paris last Friday, November 13th and announced that they have put all of their upcoming concerts on hold.
Here is the statement: "While the band is now home safe, we are horrified and still trying to come to terms with what happened in France. Our thoughts and hearts are first and foremost with our brother Nick Alexander, our record company comrades Thomas Ayad, Marie Mosser, and Manu Perez, and all the friends and fans whose lives were taken in Paris, as well as their friends, families, and loved ones.
"Although bonded in grief with the victims, the fans, the families, the citizens of Paris, and all those affected by terrorism, we are proud to stand together, with our new family, now united by a common goal of love and compassion.
"We would like to thank the French police, the FBI, the U.S. and French State Departments, and especially all those at ground zero with us who helped each other as best they could during this unimaginable ordeal, proving once again that love overshadows evil.
"All EODM shows are on hold until further notice.
"Vive la musique, vive la liberte, vive la France, and vive EODM."
Queen In The Studio For Night At The Opera Anniversary(ITS)
The latest edition of the syndicated radio show In The Studio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the 40th anniversary of Queen's landmark album "A Night At The Opera." The show sent over the following details:
In The Studio speaks to Queen songwriters, guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor, about the make or break fourth album from Queen A Night at the Opera.
It would be next to impossible to understate the importance of Queen's November 1975 A Night at the Opera, both to the band's career and to the album's influence on rock thereafter.
Brian May, one of the finest guitarists in rock history, is joined InTheStudio by Queen drummer Roger Taylor in this classic rock interview for the 40th anniversary of this eclectic hard rock album which included: "Death on Two Legs", "I'm in Love with My Car", the progressive rock "The Prophet Song", skiffle pub sing along " '39" , mainstream pop "You're My Best Friend", campy vaudeville "Lazing on a Sunday Afternoon", Freddie Mercury'sdrop dead gorgeous love song "Love of My Life" , and the mock operetta song for the ages "Bohemian Rhapsody".
Broke after three albums, Queen's Brian May reveals to InTheStudio host Redbeard how desperate the band's situation was, but also how determined they were to do it.
"It was definitely sink or swim. If that album (A Night at the Opera) hadn't done what it did, that would have been the end of the band... We took a lot of risks and that was always the name of the game, I suppose. And "Bohemian Rhapsody", in particular, everyone said, 'you can't put that out as a single'... Well that's what we're putting out and we're not changing it." - Brian May
Jimmy Eat World Vinyl Albums Reissue Campaign Announced
Universal Music Catalogue have announced that they will be launching a vinyl reissue campaign for Jimmy Eat World that will include five classic albums from the band.
The campaign will kick off with December 4th reissue release of their hit album "Bleed America" as a single LP. December 11th will see the release of three double LP reissues for "Static Prevails," "Clarity," and "Futures".
"Stay On My Side Tonight" will follow on the 18th. According to Prescription, "Never before released on vinyl, 'Stay On My Side Tonight' is a five-track EP originally released by Jimmy Eat World through downloads on September 13, 2005 and physically released on October 4, 2005.
"It consists of 3 unreleased songs (at the time of release), a cover of the Heatmiser song 'Half Right', and a remix of the Futures track 'Drugs or Me'. The title of the album is taken from a line in the song 'Disintegration', the EP's opening track." See the tracklistings
Chris Cornell Featured On Latest Episode Of Set List On Live Nation TV(Live Nation TV)
Live Nation TV sat down with the Chris Cornell for a brand new episode of Set List as the Soundgarden frontman prepared for his solo acoustic shows in support of his new album Higher Truth. We were sent over the following details:
Featuring newly unearthed archival footage and an extensive interview with the grunge architect, the episode is an in depth look at one of one of rock's most iconic living frontmen. Along the way Cornell also shares how he got his start as a solo artist and explains why spontaneity is a rarity among musicians today - all while sprinkling anecdotes in anecdotes from his time in Soundgarden, Temple of the Dog, and Audioslave.
The episode also highlights Chris Cornell's new tour and album, both of which find the artist further embracing his songwriting instincts outside of a band dynamic. "The idea that I'm not feeling the song because there's too much going on, but when there's nothing but one acoustic guitar performance and singing it works for me - it's kind of a new thing," the legendary singer tells LNTV in the piece. Watch the episode here.
More on Chris Cornell - Chris Cornell Music, DVDs, Books and more - Chris Cornell T-shirts and Posters
Supersuckers' Holdin' The Bag Album Getting Wider Release(Classic Rock) Supersuckers latest album Holdin' The Bag will get a European release early next year. Eddie Spaghetti and co issued the album in the US in October and it'll be available in Europe via SPV/Steamhammer on January 29.
It follows the mainman's battle with cancer, during which the band launched a crowdfunding campaign to help pay for his treatment. Spaghetti says: "If you don't like Holdin' The Bag, then you really don't like the Supersuckers.
"I really feel like this and Get The Hell are the best records we've ever made. I feel like, after 25 years, we're finally getting the hang of this. We're still that hungry little band that pictures itself being much bigger than it really is
Friday, November 13, 2015
Tim Abrigg Jr.'s Rock and Roll News Of The Day!: Today's Day In Rock News!
Tim Abrigg Jr.'s Rock and Roll News Of The Day!: Today's Day In Rock News!: Guns N' Roses Wife Hints At Reunion Original Guns N' Roses bassist Duff McKagan's wife has helped spark more speculati...
Today's Day In Rock News!
Guns N' Roses Wife Hints At Reunion
Original Guns N' Roses bassist Duff McKagan's wife has helped spark more speculation that the band may be reuniting and an official social media page from the band dropped some cryptic messages online last week.
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Brandi Glanville was capture on video with Duff's wife Susan Holmes-McKagan outside a recent benefit for the City of Hope cancer center.
In the video clip, Glanville declares on camera "Guns N' Roses is coming back, motherf-ers!" and Ultimate Classic Rock reports that instead of correcting her longtime friend, Duff's wife responded with a "Whoo!" Watch the video here.
The clip follows a series of cryptic tweets that were posted on the official Guns N' Roses Twitter account on Sunday that read, "What ever happened to no news is good news? Of course today everyone is a journalist. If only they could read lips…Surely they'll read between the lines."
On the far-less-reliable-source-than-a-spouse anonymous "music insider" front, Dish Nation has published the following quote from one such unnamed person, "Slash and Axl have verbally agreed to get things together again and reform the original band.
"The live shows is where they can show the world what they had and also make the greatest earnings. Promoters are quietly working away to land opportunities.
"Details of the reunion are expected to leak out in the next few days. Everyone is expecting huge demand for tickets, but the boys are very humble and are not sure what to expect."
Motorhead Star Phil Taylor Dead At 61(hennemusic)
Former Motorhead drummer Phil "Philthy Animal" Taylor died Wednesday at the age of 61. Taylor played in Motorhead from 1975 to 1984 and from 1987 to 1992.
Old bandmate and guitarist Fast Eddie Clarke broke the news via Facebook on Thursday. "My dear friend and brother passed away last night," wrote Clarke. "He had been ill for sometime but that does not make it any easier when the time finally comes. I have known Phil since he was 21 and he was one hell of a character. Fortunately we made some fantastic music together and I have many many fond memories of our time together. Rest in Peace, Phil!"
Motorhead issued a statement on Thursday, as well, writing: "Lil' Philthy...he who once shouted 'stop wincing about' on an album...he who fueled many a young boy's punk/metal hairstyles...he who played the drums with fury and intent...he who liked to call people 'wazzocks' once in a while...friend, Roman, Derbyshireman...rest in peace...with much love."
The drummer was featured on 11 early Motorhead records, including the band's 1975 debut, "On Parole", and their 1980 classic "Ace Of Spades." Taylor and Clarke reunited with Motorhead for a performance of "Ace Of Spades" at a show in Birmingham, UK last November. Check out video of the reunion here.
Iron Maiden, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, Queen Rule Classic Rock Awards(Gibson)
Iron Maiden, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin and Queen and were among the artists who scored big at this year's Classic Rock Awards ceremony that took place earlier this week.
The event was staged on Wednesday (Nov. 11) at the legendary Roundhouse venue in London, with Iron Maiden taking home the album of the year honor for their new 2-disc effort "The Book Of Souls" and AC/DC winning the "Band Of The Year" honor.
The event saw Joe Satriani present Queen's Brian May with the "Living Legend Award" on behalf of his trailblazing band. Previous "Living Legend" recipients have included Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, Gregg Allman and ZZ Top, among others.
Led Zeppelin nabbed the "Reissue of the Year" trophy thanks to the Page-supervised reissue of the band's catalog in Deluxe Box form. Alice Cooper's Welcome to My Nightmare, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, was bestowed the "Classic Album" honor. Foo Fighters, Joe Satriani and former Slade frontman Noddy Holder were among the other honorees. See the list of winners here.
Lost Jeff Buckley Recordings Set For Release(Classic Rock)
A collection of lost Jeff Buckley recordings will be released under the title You & I, which will be released on March 11th in the UK and March 16 elsewhere.
It contains eight cover versions of other artists' music, along with alternative takes of Buckley tracks Grace and Dream Of You And I. Buckley drowned in Tennessee in 1997, aged 30, while working on his second album, planned to follow 1994 debut Grace.
Legacy Recordings president Adam Block says: "The vault, as it occasionally will, presented us with an unbelievable gift - this cache of studio recordings from the Grace period.
"We quickly realised how remarkable they were. They offer an incredible glimpse of an artist alone in the sacred space that is the studio. There's an intimacy and honesty to the performances that's literally breathtaking."
Hear his version of Everyday People, originally by Sly And The Family Stone, here.
Dio Supergroup Last In Line Part Ways With Claude Schnell(Classic Rock)
Dio offshoot band Last In Line have split with keyboardist Claude Schnell. The move comes ahead of the launch of debut track Devil In Me, which arrives next week, and the release of their album Heavy Crown in February.
Schnell was a member of the original Dio lineup alongside guitarist Vivian Campbell, bassist Jimmy Bain and drummer Vinny Appice. They reunited under the Last In Line name in 2013, and recruited vocalist Andrew Freeman to front the band.
Campell, also a member of Def Leppard, says: "The initial idea was to reunite the original Dio band to play the songs we wrote and recorded with Ronnie in the early 1980s. It was a limited ambition, but one that brought us great joy in reconnecting to this great music, to each other, and to our collective history.
"Our ambition at that time didn't extend to writing and recording any new music, but when we were offered the opportunity to do so by the Frontiers record label, we took that step forward."
Campbell adds that the band decided to mimic the procedure they undertook with 1983 Dio debut Holy Diver, which was written without keyboards in mind. He continues: "After Holy Diver was recorded we brought in Claude to embellish certain songs in a way that the guitar just couldn't do. From that time forward Claude became an essential part of the band's live shows.
"In retracing our footsteps, we again started to write as a four-piece, keeping the emphasis on guitar-driven songs. In the course of doing so we have decided to continue on that path, and remain a four-piece band." Read more here.
Randy Rhoads' Mother Delores Dead At 95(Classic Rock)
Delores Rhoads, the mother of legendary late guitarist Randy Rhoads has died aged 95. The news was confirmed by former Quiet Riot and Ozzy Osbourne bassist Rudy Sarzo on his Facebook page.
He says: "The world today has lost one of the most gracious and sweetest ladies I'm blessed to have known, Delores Rhoads. Please keep her and the Rhoads family in your prayers."
Osbourne also paid tribute to Delores, saying: "I am deeply saddened to hear of Mrs Rhoads' passing. She was a wonderful woman and will be missed. I have no doubt she is reunited with her son, Randy."
She founded the Musonia School Of Music in Hollywood after graduating from UCLA with a Bachelor's degree in music. When son Randy received his first guitar, he learned to play and read music at the school.
According to CSUN, Delores said of that time: "He couldn't have been more than eight years old, maybe younger. But he would sit there and play his heart out because he enjoyed it." Read more here.
Eddie Van Halen Reveals His Favorite Guitar Riffs Off All-Time
Legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen revealed his picks for the best guitar riffs off all time during his interview for Billboard's Greatest of All-Time interview series.
Van Halen, who revolutionized rock guitar in the 1970s and 80s, stuck mostly to riffs from songs that predated his rise to fame and admitted compiling the list was difficult. "There are millions of riffs," Van Halen said. "I wrack my brain, trying to think. Obviously, I can't mention any of my own, right?"
But when he did come up with specific songs they included AC/DC's "Down Payment Blues" from their 1978 studio effort, Powerage, which Van Halen called "one of my all-time favorites".
He also cited Black Sabbath's "Into the Void" from their 1971 album Masters of Reality; Deep Purple's "Burn" (the title-track to the legendary band's effort that marked the debut of David Coverdale and Glenn Hughes); and Cream's "Sunshine of Your Love" from their 1967 album Disraeli Gears. Check out the full interview clip here.
Halestorm Release 'I Am The Fire' Video(Classic Rock)
Halestorm have released a video for their song "I Am The Fire," which is a track featured on their third album 'Into The Wild Life,' out earlier this year via Atlantic Records.
Speaking about the track, guitarist Joe Hottinger told TeamRock: "We have a few really cool transitions on the record and this is one of my favourites. This was another step forward for us in terms of making a record that connects the songs.
"I remember when we came up with the title for this song, we were thinking about all the different things I Am The Fire could mean. I think the lyric that sums up the whole song best is, 'I am the one that I've been waiting for.' It's the idea that nobody is holding you back except yourself."
Halestorm are currently on tour in Canada and will head to Japan, New Zealand, Australia, the UK and Europe for further dates stretching into next year. Watch the video here.
Allman Brothers Band Expand 'Idlewild South' For 45th Anniversary(hennemusic)
The Allman Brothers Band will mark the 45th anniversary of their second album, "Idlewild South", with the release of a series of expanded reissues on December 4th.
The follow-up to their 1969 self-titled debut featured a pair of Allman concert staples, "Midnight Rider" and the epic "In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed."
The album's title came from the band's nickname for a farmhouse it rented on a lake outside of Macon, Georgia during the project's recording, with its busy atmosphere reminding them of New York City's Idlewild Airport.
An updated series of the album will include a remastered edition on CD, vinyl and digital, a Deluxe 2CD set and a Super Deluxe 3CD/Blu-ray package.
The 2-CD Deluxe Edition adds 12 tracks, including a combination of outtakes, live and studio cuts, while a 3-CD and Blu-Ray Super Deluxe edition with 14 added tracks also includes the entire album (plus four additional outtakes, alternate takes or mixes) in Blu-Ray Pure Audio in 96kHz 24-bit 5.1 Surround & Stereo. Read more here.
Metallica's Robert Trujillo Release Jaco Film Trailer(Classic Rock)
The Jaco Pastorius documentary produced by Metallica's Robert Trujillo has received its first official trailer. Jaco focuses on the short life of the bass icon who is regarded as one of the most influential players of all time. He died aged 35 following a fight in a Florida club.
The movie, which was made possible thanks to a successful PledgeMusic campaign, features contributions from artists including Joni Mitchell, Geddy Lee, Flea, Lenny White, Bootsy Collins and Herbie Hancock.
Trujillo said: "The campaign has been an incredible ride and a sincere thanks to all of those that have participated and committed their time and money to being a part of our story. Our film has been a labour of love."
Trujillo and his partners at Passion Pictures have hooked up with Black Friday and Record Store Day organizers for the launch on November 27. Jaco will be released via on demand streaming services and digital download on the same day it's issued on DVD and Blu-ray. The soundtrack will also appear the same day. Watch the trailer here.
Pearl Jam's Performance Of Pink Floyd's Comfortably Numb Goes Online(hennemusic)
Pearl Jam delivered their debut live performance of the 1979 Pink Floyd classic, "Comfortably Numb", during a show in Porto Alegre, Brazil on Wednesday and video of the performance has been posted online.
The tune was featured as part of the band's second encore during the 33-song, 3-hour show, the third stop on the group's South American tour in support of 2013's "Lighting Bolt." The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 album chart upon its release with opening week sales of 166,000 copies.
Earlier in Porto Alegre the set, the Seattle rockers also performed Pink Floyd's "Interstellar Overdrive", an instrumental track from their 1967 debut, "The Piper At The Gates Of Dawn."
The South American run sees Pearl Jam performing nine shows, wrapping up with a November 28 stop in Mexico City. Watch video of the performance of the Pink Floyd classic here.
Anthrax, Motorhead, Quiet Riot Members In 'Hair I Go Again' Documentary(Classic Rock)
Members of Anthrax, Motorhead, Quiet Riot, LA Guns, Vixen and more will appear in an upcoming documentary. The film entitled Hair I Go Again will be released next year and follows friends Kyle Kruger and Steve McClure as they attempt to achieve rock stardom 30 years after their band Bullet In The Chamber failed to crack the US music scene.
The film is described as "a story about a lifelong friendship, insurmountable odds and dealing with the always present thought of 'what if?' It's a tale of rediscovery, determination, triumphs and failures."
It'll feature interviews with artists including Anthrax's Frank Bello and Joey Belladonna, Motorhead's Phil Campbell, Tesla's Jeff Keith, Operation: Mindcrime's Geoff Tate and members of Stryper, Quiet Riot, The Cult, Warrant, LA Guns and Vixen.
A trailer for the documentary has been released. View it here.
Director Reveals Details Of David Bowie's Stage Show Lazarus(Classic Rock)
Director Ivo Van Hove has given a snap behind-the-scenes look at David Bowie's upcoming stage show Lazarus. Already the fastest-selling show that Off Broadway New York Theater Workshop has ever produced, Lazarus opens on December 7.
It's described as a sequel to 1976 sci-fi film The Man Who Fell To Earth and stars Dexter actor Michael C Hall as Thomas Newton, the character played by Bowie in that film.
Van Hove tells the New York Times: "Lazarus focuses on Newton as he remains on Earth, a man unable to die, his head soaked in cheap gin, and haunted by a past love. We follow Newton through the course of a few days where the arrival of another lost soul might set him free." Read more here.
Mike Portnoy Makes The Winery Dogs Priority Over Other Projects(Classic Rock)
Mike Portnoy says that while he's happy to juggle multiple projects, The Winery Dogs are his main focus. The former Dream Theater drummer is know for his work with a variety of artists including Metal Allegiance, Twisted Sister, The Neal Morse Band and Flying Colours.
But as he, Richie Kotzen and Billy Sheehan prepare to head out on a European tour in January in support of second album Hot Streak, the sticksman says they are his top priority.
He tells Metal Assault: "I am as guilty as anybody for having multiple things, like the five or six different things I have currently going on, but all the other things I do are more part-time projects.
"They revolve around The Winery Dogs, which is the main thing in my life. We'll be on the road solid for the next year, doing over a hundred shows and traveling the world.
"I think we're definitely, finally proving that this is a real band and we're here to stay." Read more here.
Ghost's 'He Is' Inspired By Close Friend's Suicide(Classic Rock)
One of Ghost's Nameless Ghouls has revealed they wrote their track He Is in response to the suicide of a close friend. Selim Lemouchi, leader of Dutch occult psychedelic rock band The Devil's Blood, took his own life in March 2014, at the age of 33.
The Ghoul tells Loudwire: "There's various degrees of personal meaning in there. One of them is publicly known in our fan circles, about Selim. He chose to take his life.
"We were far apart geographically, but every time we met, we had something. We had a real blast." He adds that the song had existed in demo form for some time, but the lyrics "didn't really have a bite." It reached the stage where the band couldn't see past the demo lyrics, even though they knew the words were "bogus."
The Ghoul continues: "With Selim's passing the lyrics came, and it all made sense." Read more here.
Iron Maiden Would Have Recruited Judas Priest's Richie Faulkner(Classic Rock)
Judas Priest guitarist Richie Faulkner might have become a member of Iron Maiden if things had worked out differently, he's revealed. He'd been working with Lauren Harris, daughter of Maiden mainman Steve, before joining Rob Halford's band in 2011, after the departure of KK Downing.
Faulkner tells GigsAndFestivals: "Steve was one of the first ones I told when I got the Priest gig.He's a great guy, and, like the guys in Priest, he's an idol and he's a teacher. He's one of these guys who's really supportive.
"I said, 'I've been approached by another band,' and he was over the moon when I told him it was Priest. He said, 'I would have had you in my band. If anything had happened to any of my guys, you were the guy that was going to do it." Read more here.
Intervals Streaming New Song 'I'm Awake'(Prog)
Intervals have released an online stream of their latest single I'm Awake. It's taken from the Canadians' second album The Shape Of Colour, to be released on December 4.
Guitarist and compose Aaron Marshall rebuilt the band after the acrimonious departure of singer Mike Semensky led to the rest of the lineup bowing out. He decided to continue without vocals, in a three-piece lineup featuring Protest The Hero bassist Cameron McLellan and drummer Travis Orbin.
Marshall tells RedBull.com: "The tune means a lot to me for many reasons. This year actually began with a pretty heavy surgery for me. When I came to, this riff was rolling around in my head. I tend to instinctually vibe off of stuff like that, so I knew I had to go with it." Stream the song here.
Trail Of Dead Frontman Conrad Keely Streams Solo Song(Prog)
…And You Will Know Us By The Trail Of Dead frontman Conrad Keely has released a stream of a new solo track called In Words Of A Not So Famous Man.
The song comes from his solo album entitled Original Machines, out on January 22 via Superball Music. It was recorded in Montreal, Canada throughout the summer and features tracks written while he was travelling through Cambodia where he currently lives.
Keely will play four shows across the UK this month, starting in Leicester on November 14. A full album tracklist will be revealed in due course. Stream the song here.
White Zombie Box Set Details Revealed By Sean Yseult(TeamRock Radio)
A White Zombie vinyl box set is currently being complied and will be released next year, according to former bassist Sean Yseult. The band issued the albums Soul-Crusher (1987), Make Them Die Slowy (1989), La Sexorcisto: Devil Music Volume One (1992), and Astro Creep: 2000 before Yseult, Rob Zombie, Jay Yuenger and John Tempesta went their separate ways in 1998.
Yseult tells Artisan News: "Jay and I, and Rob got in on it too, have been working on a box set with Numero Group. It's coming out in spring or summer. We've been working on it for over a year.
"There's 50 pages of liner notes - they've been interviewing us for months. They've done a beautiful job on the booklet. It's going to be all vinyl, all the early records."
"Some of the extra tracks I didn't even remember. When we were in the studio usually we used everything we recorded, but we had a couple of extra songs here and there, so there's going to be a few surprises." Watch the video here.
Dead & Company An Intense Ride For John Mayer(Radio.com)
Dead & Company, the ad hoc Grateful Dead reunion band, have been getting rave reviews on their Fall tour, which is in full swing following three shows at Madison Square Garden in New York, as well as stops in Albany, Philadelphia and Washington D.C.
Up until now, the collective, which includes Dead members Bob Weir, Billy Kreutzmann and Mickey Hart along with guitarist John Mayer, bassist Oteil Burbridge (formerly of the Allman Brothers Band) and keyboardist Jeff Chimenti, has let the music do the talking. But Mayer recently broke the silence, sharing his thoughts on the first six shows of the tour.
Mayer posted a photo of the band on Instagram and wrote a long caption. At first he apologizes for "taking so long to post." The guitarist continued, "It's been a beautiful, intense and all-encompassing ride since the beginning of the @deadandcompany tour, and I didn't have the words to express what this has meant to me. I still don't, but I'm coming to grips with the idea that I have to try! Nothing I can say can add more depth to this than already exists."
Mayer added, "So here's the 'gist of it': thank you for accepting me. Thank you for letting me help take you to *that place*… I think this sums everything up: every time someone comes up to me and mentions having seen one (or more) of these shows, the question in my mind is never 'how was I?' but 'how were you?' Because I'm only here, with my five brothers-in-arms, to take you 'there.'" Read more here.
Machine Head's Album Success Leaves Them Debt Free(TeamRock Radio)
The success of Machine Head's latest album has left the band "debt free" according to frontman Robb Flynn. The vocalist says in a Facebook post that last year's Bloodstone & Diamonds gave the band their best ever chart positions around the world.
Flynn says: "With the worldwide sales from Bloodstone & Diamonds we have recouped the substantial advance we took from Nuclear Blast - no small feat in this day and age - which makes it the fourth record in a row for us where we recouped our advance and were basically debt free to our given record label.
"I can't even tell you how awesome it is to write the words 'debt free' and 'record label' in the same sentence. It wasn't always the case. Now if I could just figure out how to do that in my real life." Read more here.
Singled Out: Shumaun's AmbrosiaProg inspired hard rockers
Shumaun released their acclaimed self-titled debut album today (Friday, November 13th) and to celebrate we asked frontman Farhad Hossain to tell us the story behind the song "Ambrosia". Here is the story:
I find it very difficult to go into detail about the lyrical content of certain songs I write due to the intimate nature of the subject matter. Oddly enough, it just may be that I lack the self-confidence in my own ability to accurately explain and dissect particular lyrics that I've written. "Ambrosia" is one of those songs that touch on many subjects at once. The foundation of the song is about spiritual awakening and the internal conflicts that we face day to day as spiritual beings in a world bombarded with materialism. I use religious imagery at times to expand on the concept that our spiritual energies are all interconnected as one and that we should treat each other as such, but at the end of the day, all the words dissolve into the fact that "Ambrosia" is just a twisted love song.
This is definitely one of the heavier songs on the album. It has a sort of Tool meets Fates Warning vibe to it, with a big hook for the chorus to contrast the haunting melody on the verses. Travis Orbin tracked the drums on this song and, quite frankly, killed it in every possible way without overplaying. The guitar solo is one of my favorites on the album. The first section is a bit tricky because of the alternating time signatures, but it then opens up nicely on top of a layered bed of electric and acoustic guitars banging out chords while maintaining a 6/8 feel. The bridge after the guitar solo is also one of my favorite drum and bass moments, with Jose's bass giving Travis's drum patterns a nice melodic accompaniment.
"Ambrosia" was one of the songs that came together rather quickly; however, the vocal melody on the chorus had several iterations. This became the only frustrating part in completing the song. Eventually, I just chose the chorus that got stuck in my head the most. Ironically, the melody came to me in a dream. The irony stems from the lyrics that I had already written in the pre-chorus that end with the line "Find me in your dreams." Essentially, I just completed the song by taking my own advice.
Thursday, November 12, 2015
Tim Abrigg Jr.'s Rock and Roll News Of The Day!: Today's Day In Rock News!
Tim Abrigg Jr.'s Rock and Roll News Of The Day!: Today's Day In Rock News!: Def Leppard's Suffering From Unexplained Spasms(Classic Rock) Def Leppard frontman Joe Elliott says he's been suffering ...
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