Today's Day In Rock News!

Metallica To Begin Work On New Album
(hennemusic) During a conference call with reporters this week to promote their upcoming headlining set at the Outside Lands festival, Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich revealed the band's plans to begin a new album following the event.
"Pretty much when we're done with the [3D] movie [project] and with Outside Lands, which should all be wrapped up by early September," explained Ulrich, "We're gonna basically just concentrate on new music and try to get another Metallica record [done]."

As for new music, Ulrich says there's no shortage of inspiration. Every time James Hetfield picks up a guitar, there are some brilliant riffs that come out of it, and I try to make sure that they are all recorded and try to do my best to keep up with them and try to put some drums in behind them," he says. "So there are, obviously, tons of ideas sitting around waiting to be had at in terms of turning ideas of James' into songs." more on this story



Blink-182 Frontman Sidelined By Illness
(Classic Rock) Blink-182 cancelled their London show last night after bassist and vocalist Mark Hoppus was diagnosed with bronchitis, laryngitis and sinusitis.

They say: "This is the last thing the band wanted to do but it has been advised that Mark cannot perform. Regrettably a rescheduled date cannot be arranged."

Blink recently cancelled a series of shows when drummer Travis Barker required emergency surgery after six ulcers were found in his stomach. More rock news



Steven Tyler Replaced Drugs With Idol
(Classic Rock) Steven Tyler believes he became a judge on TV gameshow American Idol in order to replace the adrenaline buzz heroin used to give him.

The singer caused dissent among his Aerosmith bandmates when he announced he'd signed up to appear on the talent search series – because his 2009 stage fall followed by the admission he was back on drugs had nearly led to the band's collapse.

He thinks his drug habit cost him over $20m during the years he was a habitual user. But now that he's quit the show in order to concentrate on the band and their upcoming album Music From Another Dimension, he believes he needed the rush live TV offered him. more on this story



Van Halen Jump To The Top
(Classic Rock) Van Halen's only Billboard number-one single, Jump, has topped a poll of the world's best sporting songs, ahead of the Olympic Games in London.

Music rights body PRS For Music held a vote among its members to mark the London Olympics. The resulting top 20 also includes the Rolling Stones, Hawkwind, Queen, the Beatles, Survivor, Tina Turner and Journey.

PRS boss Guy Fletcher says: "Music plays such a classic role for both the spectator and participant. As a Brit I would have to vote for Spaundau Ballet's Gold – I think we might get a few of those, fingers crossed." See who else made the list.



Animals Legend Eric Burdon To Undergo Surgery
The Animals and former War frontman Eric Burdon has canceled his upcoming tour dates because he will be undergoing back surgery later this week.

Earlier this year Eric, who has been suffering back pain for over 3 years, was forced to cancel his Summer European Tour. It has been a debilitating situation and as a performer whose schedule has been unrelenting, Eric is excited to finally have a solution that will enable him to get back out on the road.

Eric's surgery involves micro-decompression in the lumbar region of the spine and will be performed in Los Angeles, California. This is considered a routine surgery, however Burdon's doctors report that he will experience a reduction in his activities during a recuperation period that can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. more on this story



Lamb Of God, Dethklok and Gojira Tour Canceled
Lamb Of God announced yesterday that their coheadlining tour with Dethklok, supported by Gojira, has been canceled because frontman Randy Blythe remains in jail in the Czech Republic on manslaughter charges that stem from a fan being injured during a concert by the band.

Lamb of God says: "The band regrets the decision but the uncertainty of Randy's release makes it impossible to carry on with the tour. Upon Randy's release, it is the band's intention to rebook a tour in the fall and at this time the band fully intends to participate in the Mayhem Cruise in December.

"Lamb Of God wishes to thank Dethklok, Adult Swim and Gojira for their support and patience as well as all of the promoters who had dates on the tour. Last but certainly not least, the band thanks all of the fans who bought tickets for the tour and who have been supportive of Randy and the band over the last month that Randy has been held in Prague. Without the fans, there is no Lamb Of God. " more on this story



Pinback Is Back
Pinback (Rob Crow and Zach Smith) have set an October 16th release date for their first album in five years, Information Retrieved. Sacks & Co sent over this info:

The record marks their full-length label debut for Temporary Residence Ltd., following a pair of highly sought-after limited edition Record Store Day singles last year.

Information Retrieved is the follow-up to the group's 2007 release Autumn of the Seraphs. Crow and Smith have continued to perform with a multitude of other projects in between Pinback releases, including the return of Smith's long-standing critically acclaimed group Three Mile Pilot and Crow's third solo album, He Thinks He's People more on this story



Incubus HQ Live Details
Chipster sent out details about the upcoming Incubus HQ Live release and the various packages that will be offered:

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

The celebration takes place across three separate multi-disc packages released by Legacy Recordings. The three configurations are: Incubus HQ Live (16-track CD + DVD, available August 14th)

Incubus HQ Live Special Edition (28-track double-CD + DVD, available August 14th);
Incubus HQ Live Limited Edition Box Set (available ONLY at http://incubushq.com for a limited time.).

(Special note: The DVD content is the same for all three configurations. The DVD will also contain significantly different song sequences than the CDs.) more on this story



Joe Walsh Says James Gang is Alive and Well And Hope To Tour
(Gibson) Joe Walsh has revealed that the James Gang is not only "alive and well," but that the legendary trio will likely tour small venues in the not-too-distant future.

Speaking to M – Music & Musicians, the guitarist said, "I went to Cleveland and saw [drummer] Jimmy [Fox] and [bassist] Dale [Peters], and we played some together. It's great; we can still do it. The James Gang is alive and well.

"The first little window I get from my current project, and the Eagles, we'll probably go out as a three-piece. At some point we'll go out and play some small places. I don't think we should have a 'comeback' tour and I don't think we should try to fill 10,000-seat places. But in House of Blues and Hard Rock Café venues – those types of places – I think we would do great." more on this story





Static-X, Winds Of Plague, The Browning, & Davey Suicide Tour
Static-X have announced the initial dates for the third leg of the Noise Revolution Tour which will also feature Winds Of Plague, The Browning, & Davey Suicide.

Static-X frontman Wayne Static commented on the tour "We are having an awesome time, and the shows have been absolutely crazy! So we're gonna keep the tour rolling. I wanna play every town possible!"

Winds Of Plague will be playing select dates of this summer's "All Stars Tour" and they will be wrapping up their next album slated for a late Fall release. The Browning is continuing to support their Fall 2011 release, and Davey Suicide continues on the tour while preparing for his forthcoming debut release on Standby Records this Fall. more on this story



Hawkwind Fans Are Just Fine But Band Was Never Booked For Event
In a follow up to a story earlier this week we learn that Hawkwind fans are indeed desirable and there appears to be some kind of communication break down over an upcoming event, because the venue says that the band's appearance wasn't canceled, it was never booked. Conkers offered their side of the story on their website:

Space Rock legends Hawkwind have never been strangers to courting myth and legend, but the team here at CONKERS never thought they'd find themselves wrapped up in rumours surrounding the band. Imagine our surprise then when this week we start receiving emails and calls asking why we've cancelled Hawkwind from playing at CONKERS.

Sadly we've never booked Hawkwind to play at CONKERS, although we think this is a brilliant idea! If they happen to read this and find themselves 'In Search of Space' then please get in touch. We'd love to have you and think our covered amphitheatre would be the perfect space for a Hawkwind gig. more on this story



Aaron Lewis To Play New Solo Songs on Fox News Today
Aaron Lewis will debute music from solo album, The Road, during his performance live from New York City as part of the FOX & Friends "All American Concert Series" today, July 27th during the 8am (EDT) hour.

The concert is open to the public (corner of 48th St and 6th Avenue) with free food offered all morning from Famous Dave's BBQ.

This free live performance by Lewis is the 10th of the 14-week outdoor concert series held in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, directly outside the FOX News studios (48th & 6th). more on this story



Previously Unreleased Dio Track On New Compilation
(hennemusic) A new Dio compilation is on its way. "The Very Beast Of Dio Vol. 2" will feature 17 songs, including three bonus tracks, including one that hasn't been released before.

The cover has been created by artist Marc Sasso, who has previously done two Dio projects ("Killing The Dragon" and "Master Of The Moon") as well as covers for Judas Priest, Fight, Two and Rob Halford.

The new package is the companion to 2000's "The Very Beast Of Dio" album, an exclusive North American release that has sold more than 800,000 copies to date. more on this story



Snow Patrol Won't Be Cut Off Like McCartney and Springsteen
(Classic Rock) London council bosses who forced Bruce Springsteen and Paul McCartney to stop playing mid-song in Hyde Park last week will allow pop-rock group Snow Patrol to play two and a half hours later into the night.

Fans were astonished after a moment hailed as "music history in the making" ground to a halt when promoters of the Hard Rock Calling cut the PA due to strict noise abatement rules.

Now Westminster Council, responsible for both performance licences, say they'll allow Snow Patrol to keep playing until 1am on Friday, supported by Duran Duran, Stereophonics and Paolo Nutini – and insists it's a special case because it's connected with the budget-busting Olympic Games. more on this story



One Man Army Return
One Man Army will return next month with the release of their first new material since 2004 and they will be releasing it via the label where it all started for them.

The band will release their new 4-song EP, She's An Alarm, on August 28 on Adeline Records /ILG. The effort was mastered by Mass Giorgini (Rise Against, Alkaline Trio, Screeching Weasal).

In tandem with the EP release, Adeline Records will also be releasing One Man Army's first two records digitally for the first time: their 1998 debut album Dead End Stories and 2000's Last Word Spoken. more on this story



Abandoned Pools Streaming First New Track In 7 Years
Abandoned Pools fans have waited seven years to hear new music and now the wait is over as they are streaming the title track from the forthcoming album, Sublime Currency, which will be released on August 28, 2012.

Abandoned Pools will play a rare club appearance for their CD release when they headline The Roxy in Hollywood on September 15.

Sublime Currency is the culmination of the eleven-year journey of Tommy Walter, bassist and co-founder of the critically acclaimed band eels, who played all the instruments on the new album, with the exception of the drums. "I went back to my core of writing on my own and recording on my own because it keeps the project focused," he explains. "I had a lot of range on the first album and I wanted to keep that going here, this range of styles. The songs come from a long span of time, but I feel like they're all appropriate to now." Listen to the title track here.



Candlelight Red Recruit Sevendust's Morgan Rose To Produce New EP
Candlelight Red have tapped Sevendust's Morgan Rose to produce their new EP. They sent out these details about how it came to be:

When Candlelight Red recently toured with Sevendust, they automatically struck up a friendship with drummer Morgan Rose. Realizing that they saw completely eye-to-eye musically, it made perfect sense for Rose to produce Candlelight Red – which will soon become a reality, as both factions will work together on an EP.

"While having Candlelight Red on tour with Sevendust, I was able to get familiar with their music and build a friendship with some of the band members," explains Rose. "So when they approached me with a desire for me to produce them, I jumped at the opportunity. After talking about what our goals were for the recording, we were happy to realize our goals were one and the same. To capture the band's live sound is the objective, and it's gonna happen. I'm beyond excited to get these songs finished and out to their fans!" more on this story



KISS Star Ace Frehley Planning Biography Sequel
(hennemusic) Original KISS guitarist Ace Frehley is playing a few shows this summer following a series of autograph signing events this spring.

Ace has a few projects on the go these days, including work on a new album – the follow up to 2009's "Anomaly" – as well as a sequel to 2011's "No Regrets: A Rock 'N' Roll Memoir," which debuted at #10 on the New York Times "Hardcover Nonfiction" best sellers list upon its release last fall.

"Writing that book opened the floodgates and put me in contact with a lot of people I haven't spoken to in a while," Frehley tells The Oakland Press. "A lot of stories came up I had forgotten about, and there were a lot of stories I came across too late. I've spoken with a couple of my old bodyguards, roadies and stuff; they helped me with the first book and they're helping with stories for the second book, too." more on this story



Scale The Summit Tap Trioscapes (Between The Buried And Me) For Tour
Scale The Summit will be hitting the road this fall for a North American tour that will feature support from Trioscapes, which features members of Between The Buried And Me.

SCALE and BTBAM are no strangers to one another, having toured together on the latter's early 2010 headline run that also featured Cynic and Devin Townsend.

This will likely be Scale The Summit's final tour in support of their 2011 release "The Collective." more on this story



Loudness Set New Album Release
FrostByte Media have set an August 14th release date for Eve To Dawn, the new album from Japanese heavy weights Loudness. We were sent this info:

Eve To Dawn marks the legendary Japanese band's 26th studio album since their inception in 1981 (Loudness just celebrated their 30th anniversary last year). Eve To Dawn is a spectacularly heavy opus from the "beast from the east" and is Loudness' first North American release in years.

Known for their blistering technical ability, Loudness was formed in Japan in 1981 by guitarist Akira Takasaki and late drummer Munetaka Higuchi. With four very successful and critically-acclaimed albums under their belt in their native Japan, Loudness became the first Japanese heavy metal band to sign to a major label in the United States.



Mike Shinoda Explains Beatles Influence On Linkin Park
Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda offered his perspective on the Beatles for the release of their new iTunes compilation album, 'Tomorrow Never Knows,' which was released this week.

"Nearly everything my band knows about how to approach recording a song is attached to The Beatles in some way," said Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda. "Directly or indirectly, they've shaped the way every album is recorded, and have changed the world."

Also the classic promo film for "Hey Bulldog" is available free to stream or as a purchasable download on the iTunes Store. more on this story



Pathology Need Fans For New Video
Pathology have invited fans in the Chicago area to take part in their upcoming video shoot next week. Their camp sent out this call to action:

Pathology will be shooting a brand new music video on Tuesday, July 31 at Mojoes in Joliet, Illinois. The video will be for the new single from their upcoming album The Time Of Great Purification, out everywhere on September 25.

Fans in Joliet and the surrounding Chicago areas are encouraged to come out and join in. Video shoot address: Mojoes 22 W. Cass St Joliet, IL 60432. more on this story



Danko Jones Set Rocktober Album Release
Danko Jones have set an October 9, 2012 release date for their new album, Rock And Roll is Black and Blue.

The album was produced Matt DeMatteo and was mixed by Mike Fraser, known for his work with AC/DC, Aerosmith, Franz Ferdinand and Elvis Costello to name a few. It is also the first album recorded with "new" drummer Atom Willard (Offspring, Social Distortion and Angels & Airwaves), who is the sixth person in Danko Jones history to hold the "drummer" title.

The first single – "Just A Beautiful Day" – will be serviced to radio all over the world soon. more on this story



Touche Amore and The Casket Lottery Split Coming
No Sleep Records have set an October 2nd release date for a limited edition Touche Amore/The Casket Lottery split vinyl 7".

The forthcoming split EP will feature one new song and one cover song from each band, with LA's Touche Amore having their way with The Replacements' "Unsatisfied" and Kansas City's The Casket Lottery taking a turn with Beach House's "Myth."

"This is a big win for TA," says Touche Amore frontman Jeremy Bolm. "We met Nathan and Junior when we toured alongside Coalesce in 2010 and had gushed to them our love for The Casket Lottery. Their album Survival is for Cowards was produced by Ed Rose (who produced Parting the Sea Between Brightness and Meas well as the rest of the CL catalog) and served as the focal point for the sound we wanted to achieve. This being their first release since 2003, we are very honored to be apart of it." more on this story



Holy Grail To Celebrate New Album With Sebastian Bach Show
Holy Grail will celebrate completing the recording their sophomore album "Ride The Void," with a live show supporting Sebastian Bach at L.A.'s Club Nokia on Aug. 2.

The new album was tracked with producer Matt Hyde (Slayer, Hatebreed, Children of Bodom) on and off throughout the year, working around national tours with Dragonforce and Valient Thorr.

Says vocalist James Paul Luna, "Album finished! You don't know how good those words feel! Day after day and month after month, we've been listening back, tweaking and fine-tuning this wretched beast of an album we call 'Ride The Void.' Finally, after many hours in the cave, we can gladly say it's done. more on this story



B Sides


Science Proves Rock and Metal Fans Right About Pop Music
(Classic Rock) A scientific experiment has confirmed what rock and metal fans already knew: pop music is too loud and it all sounds the same.

Using an archive called the Million Song Dataset, researchers in Spain reduced pop songs from 1955 to 2010 into a series of numbers which were then analysed by a supercomputer.

After analysing the results, artificial intelligence expert Joan Serra concluded that recordings have become much louder over the years, while employing fewer combinations of musical notes.

Chart-fodder has also come to rely on a narrower set of instrument sounds as use of digital production increased over the years. more on this story



KISS Play Private Set For Lucky Fans
(hennemusic) KISS and Motley Crue kicked off their summer co-headlining tour of North America last weekend.

As the rockers rolled into Raleigh, NC on Sunday for the third show, the schedule was tight, and KISS' crew needed all available time to set up the massive stage for the evening's show. This left KISS without enough time to do a sound check.

So, rather than cancel the sound check part of the KISS Meet & Greet, Paul Stanley came up with the idea of performing an impromptu "private" set for the Meet & Greet tent. more on this story



Motorhead Guitarist Not Allowed To Rock With Kids
(Classic Rock) Motorhead guitarist Phil Campbell isn't allowed to play music with his children's bands any more, he's revealed.

The Welsh-based musician has three offspring and he used to jam alongside as they learned their chops – but he says those days are long gone.

Asked if he ever gets involved with their projects Campbell tells CityBeat: "I used to when they were younger, but they won't let me play any more. I'm not good enough."

Today's Day In Rock News!

Former Misfits Singer Michale Graves Arrested
Former Misfits frontman Michale Graves was arrested for marijuana possession this week in Texas which forced him to miss a concert in El Paso. His camp sent out these details:

While passing through a border check point in Kennedy County in the great state of Texas on Monday, July 23rd, Michale Graves was arrested for possession of 6 grams of marijuana.
Graves was taken into custody by the Kingsville Sherriff's department and charged with a misdemeanor. He was held overnight missing the El Paso show at Lips Lounge.

Graves was released Tuesday, the 24th at 4:00pm on a $750 bond. He must return to Texas to answer to the charges. The band has been driving for 20 straight hours to reach tonight's show at the Silverdome in Lukachukai, AZ. He hopes to be able to make up the El Paso show in some way. more on this story



Aerosmith and Run DMC Reunite
It must have felt like 1986 all over again for Aerosmith fans on Tuesday at the Izod Center in East Rutherford, NJ, where the band was joined by Run-D.M.C.'s Darryl "D.M.C." McDaniels.

McDaniels jumped on stage for a performance of Aerosmith two-time (first in 1977 as an Aerosmith track and then again in 1986 as a Run D.M.C. and Aerosmith collaboration) hit "Walk This Way."

The show is part of Aerosmith's in progress "Global Warming Tour." As previously reported Aerosmith will release their new album, Music From Another Dimension, on November 6. See a Ross Halfin photo of the reunion jam



Lamb of God's Randy Blythe Bail Release In Doubt Again
(Classic Rock) Lamb of God frontman Randy Blythe's jail ordeal is set to continue after prosecutors issued a new objection to setting him free.

It's believed his liberty will be decided at last at a hearing in Prague on Friday. If he's not allowed to leave prison then, he's likely to remain there until his trial – which may not begin for another six to twelve months.

Blythe has still not been charged in the manslaughter investigation connected with the death of fan Daniel Nosek after a concert in 2010. It's alleged Blythe was responsible for a head injury he may have received during the show in the Czech Republic, which could have led to his death from a brain hemorrhage a month later. more on this story



Mike Portnoy, Slayer's Kerry King and Free's Andy Fraser Join Marshall Event
Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater), Andy Fraser (Free) and Kerry King (Slayer) have been added to the lineup for the Marshall Amps 50th Anniversary Event.

They join the previously announced lineup featuring members of Iron Maiden, Slipknot, Whitesnake, Chickenfoot, The Cult, Black Label Society, Deep Purple, Judas Priest, Black Sabbath plus host comedian, The Pub Landlord, Al Murray at Wembley arena on Saturday 22nd September 2012.

Kerry King commented; "If I stand in front of my rig, if my nuts ain't shaking then I ain't satisfied . . . and the only stuff that can do that is my Marshalls! Marshall has help helped shape my career in so many ways. The company even produced my very own fearsome, ass kicking signature amp " The Beast" . To me Jim Marshall was the ultimate rock star because he and his team made us all sound better. It's an incredible honour to have my signature on an amp right next to him and an incredible honour to play at this event. Let's make it thunder!" more on this story



Rare Video Of Van Halen Unplugged Goes Online
(hennemusic) 1993 saw the first time members of Van Halen performed "unplugged" and now new pro-shot video of a few songs from the event have now surfaced.

Sammy Hagar had appeared at the Bridge School benefit shows in '89 and '92, but when he came out to support Neil Young for the event in '93, he brought someone with him: Eddie Van Halen.

Hagar began his set off with a solo performance of "The Love." Sammy then introduced Van Halen, saying, "If I can con this guy into doing this, man, I can con him into doing anything," as Eddie set up at a black grand piano.

"Love Walks In," and the mega-hit, "Right Now," followed, with strong piano work by Eddie, as Hagar's voiced soared into the night air. Van Halen then pulled out a black Parker Fly guitar, playing the instrumental "Spanish Fly" from VHII, before the pair rocked out with an acoustic version of "Best Of Both Worlds." Check out the video here.



Orleans' Larry Hoppen Dead at 61
Larry Hoppen, a founding members of the hit 70s band Orleans, died yesterday, July 24, 2012 at the age of 61. The cause of death has not been released but Kayos sent over these details about his career and legacy:

Between 1969 and 1971,his Ithaca, NY-based band, Boffalongo, made two LPs for United Artists. The second included the original recording of "Dancin' in the Moonlight," later a hit by friends King Harvest. Soon after Boffalongo disbanded in late 1971, Larry received a call from guitarist and future U.S. Congressman John Hall, inviting him to come to Woodstock, NY to join with the late Wells Kelly and John to form Orleans which he did in early 1972. Larry's younger brother, Lance, joined the band the following fall. Tens of millions know Larry's uplifting tenor from the Orleans hits "Still the One," "Dance With Me" and "Love Takes Time."

Larry also performed and/or recorded with Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt, Livingston Taylor, Lulu, Graham Parker, Blues Traveler, Ricky Skaggs, Steve Wariner, Michael Franks, Levon Helm, John Sebastian, Bela Fleck, Felix Cavaliere, Edgar Winter, Robbie Dupree, Spencer Davis, Rick Derringer, Mark Farner, John Ford Coley, Jimi Jamison, John Cafferty, the late great Michael Brecker, the late great Chet Atkins, the late great Artie Traum, and many more notable artists. Hoppen released 2 solo albums: "HandMade" and "Looking for the Light," the latter being a flagship fundraising vehicle for his 501(c)3 nonprofit Sunshine for HIV Kids. more on this story



Crosby, Stills, Nash and Tommy Shaw For Eagles' Don Felder
(Gibson) Eagles legend Don Felder is ready to release his first solo album in roughly three decades. The record, titled Road to Forever, will arrive on October 9 and offer 12 tracks, all written or co-written by the songwriter. The album, which is his second solo release, also will feature guest performances by a slew of famous names: Graham Nash, David Crosby, Stephen Stills, Tommy Shaw of Styx, American Idol's Randy Jackson and more.

Felder first hooked up with the Eagles in 1974 and helped make the band a success, thanks to his mad guitar skills and songwriting talents. He actually composed the music for the band's big hit, "Hotel California." He played in the Eagles until 2001 and wrote about his less-than-friendly exit from the group in his 2008 memoir, Heaven and Hell: My Life in the Eagles, which was on the New York Times bestseller list.

Felder has booked a selection of North American shows and is gunning to add more tour dates this fall. Check out the track list for Return to Forever here.





Experience Alice Cooper's Nightmare This Halloween
Alice Cooper fans will be able to experience the shock rocker's nightmare this Halloween with the debut of two new attractions at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood for their Halloween Horror Nights.

Universal sent over these details: Alice Cooper's own version of a demented and dark subconscious will come to life in the haunted maze, "Alice Cooper – Welcome to My Nightmare." Inspired by iconic elements from his first solo album, the attraction will put guests inside the haunted dreams of the album's recurring character, "Steven," as he endures the scream-inducing madness spawned from the mind of the legendary rocker.

Making an encore performance at Universal Studios Hollywood's acclaimed event, Alice Cooper's new haunted attraction, "Alice Cooper Goes to Hell 3D," will be inspired by the musician's classic concept album centered on unending darkness, eternal torment and unimaginable horrors. The terrifying maze will beckon guests to experience hell's interminable inferno as imagined through the eyes of hard rock visionary Alice Cooper. To experience this daunting new maze, guests will don 3D glasses for an optimum up close and personal three-dimensional encounter with Alice Cooper's underworld. more on this story



Ex-Bandmates Try To Take Whitesnake Guitarist's Name?
(Classic Rock) Whitesnake guitarist Adrian Vandenberg has slammed the former members of his band Vandenberg for attempting to take over the rights to his surname a second time.

He split the four-piece in 1986 in order to join David Coverdale's outfit, and insists he was fully in charge of its creative output during their three-album career. And he's branded the new action "ridiculous," "far-fetched" and "cheesy".

"Before joining my close friend David Coverdale in Whitesnake, I had my own band under my own name, which I founded, wrote all the music and lyrics for, made the album covers, designed the logo etc etc," Vandenberg says. "Here comes the surreal part: a year ago I got summoned by a lawyer representing the three guys I invited to play in my band, trying to claim my own name and trying to prohibit me from using my own name through a lawsuit. Now how bizarre is that? more on this story



Slipknot Celebrate Paul Gray With New Release
(Gibson) Slipknot unleashed Antennas from Hell this past Tuesday, which offers 19 career-spanning songs and a new mix of "My Plague," plus live cuts of "Purity" and "The Heretic Anthem." It's no secret that losing the band's bass player, the late Paul Gray, in 2010 took its toll on Slipknot, and singer Corey Taylor says this record is a tribute to Gray.

"To us, [Antennas from Hell] was just a compilation to celebrate the fact that our fans have been with us since day one, and… to basically celebrate what we call the Paul years," Taylor told Roadrunner Records. "To pay respect to that, to the years that we had Paul, and everything we built together."

Taylor added that picking which songs should be featured on the album was a piece of cake. "It was kind of an easy jump, to be honest," he said. "We basically just looked at our set list [laughs]. At this point, we're kind of the band that's got the best of both worlds. We've got these 'radio hits,' and then we've got songs the fans have made hits, the anthems. It really took no time at all to get those together, and it's a good problem to have. And trust me, this band shudders at the thought of calling something a 'greatest hits' or a 'best of.'" more on this story





Sex Pistols' Never Mind the Bollocks Box Set Coming in September
(Gibson) The Sex Pistols' legendary 1977 release, Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols, will get the box set treatment this fall in honor of the album's 35th anniversary, according to Rolling Stone. The deluxe package includes three CDs and one DVD.

The CDs feature the original album remastered from the original tapes (which were thought to be lost and were only rediscovered earlier this year).

Rarities include six demos from the Spunk bootleg, live performances and a demo studio take of "Belsen was a Gas." The DVD features all sorts of live footage from 1977.

The set will be released on September 24. more on this story





Rick Rubin Sank Crosby, Stills and Nash's Last Album?
(Classic Rock) Graham Nash says producer Rick Rubin was responsible for Crosby, Stills and Nash abandoning their last album.

He describes working with the controversial deskman as "not a great experience" – but he insists they'll finish the job, despite bandmate Stephen Stills' claims that they won't.

"Two things are happening. One, Stephen doesn't know the big picture. Two, Stephen is very deaf. He may have misheard or he may have been answering the question he thought you asked," Nash tells Music Radar. "Crosby, Stills and Nash will do another record. We're right in the middle of one, Songs We Wish We'd Written." more on this story



KISS FAQ Coming On 9/11
KISS fans get ready for the September 11th release of the new KISS FAQ, just ahead of next year's 40th anniversary of the group. The publisher sent over these details:

To some, KISS is a band. To others, KISS is a religion, a way to approach life. Dale Sherman takes readers behind the makeup and stage effects in KISS FAQ: All That's Left to Know About the Hottest Band in the Land (Backbeat Books, $22.99), showcasing the good, the bad, and the weird that has made KISS the legendary ultimate rock-and-roll party band.

KISS FAQ discusses tryouts, record labels, album covers, concerts, television appearances, comics, merchandise, the fanbase, band members' lives outside of and before the band, important people in the KISS sphere, and more. It tackles rumors and covers the various topics KISS fans discuss late in the night at the hotel bar after a KISS expo (KISS expos have continued strong since they started in the 1980s.) when feeling free enough to bring up topics they know would sometimes run them into ridicule otherwise. more on this story



Pearl Jam's Mike McCready Scores Fat Kid Rules The World
Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready was tapped to record original songs and the score for the new film Fat Kid Rules The World.

Living up to its unusual title the film is also being released in an unconventional way. We were sent these details about the movie and how you can see it:

The film follows Troy Billings who is seventeen, overweight, and suicidal. Just as he's about to jump in front of a bus, he's saved by Marcus, a charming high school dropout/street musician. The two begin an uneasy friendship when Marcus enlists the musically challenged Troy to become the drummer in a new punk rock band. As Troy's relationship with Marcus grows, Troy's father becomes increasingly concerned about his son's new friendship. more on this story



Deep Purple Members Rock Benefit For Nashville Musician
(hennemusic) Deep Purple are in Nashville working on a new album and band members Roger Glover, Ian Paice and Don Airey took part in a July 15th benefit show.

The concert was for Jamie Simmons, a local bass player who was severely injured in a motorcycle accident earlier this year.

The Purple members teamed up with Mike Simmons (guitar) and vocalist Greg Mangus at the Mercury Lounge to jam out a couple of classics, including "Space Truckin'" and "Woman From Tokyo." Check out video here.



Paul McCartney Upset About Beckham's Absence From Olympic Team
(Gibson) Paul McCartney has spoken out about David Beckham's omission from the British Olympic soccer team.

The Sun newspaper reports that the Beatle legend said: "He's a national hero. I would've thought Beckham would be first choice because of his huge contribution to getting the Olympics.

"I feel a bit sorry for the three over-23s because we're going to be looking at them and saying, 'That should've been Beckham.' more on this story





Damn Glad To Be On Aerosmith Tribute
Damn Glad sent over word that they have been invited to contribute a cover to Versailles Records Aerosmith tribute album.

The album, will be called "Deuces Wild" and is set to be released late Fall 2012. Damn Glad will be recording the song "Make It" from Aerosmith's first record.

The record will feature current and former members of Motley Crue, Tesla, Poison, Kiss, Megadeth, Mr. Big, Alice Cooper Band, Lillian Axe, Ratt, Slash's Snakepit, LA Guns, King Crimson and others.

Damn Glad are recording their 3rd album entitled "It's Always Something" which is also due out this Fall. Check em out here.



B Sides


Singled Out: Troy Harley's End Of Summer
Today Russian rock star Troy Harley tells us about his new single "End of Summer," which was produced by American Idol's Randy Jackson. Here is the story:

I think 'End of Summer' boils down to accepting the unfortunate fact that sometimes the very best things in life, the things that make us the happiest, are fleeting. Temporary. But that doesn't make them any less important.

I hear it all the time. People claim they're in love with somebody -- 'summer love' -- then heartbroken when it doesn't work out. They mope around feeling like the whole world has done them wrong. Lied to them. We've all been there.

But when you finally reflect on some of these "lost" loves and memorable summers, I think you'll realize you were more in love with how that person made you feel. How happy you were in that moment. Sometimes -- too often, I think -- people become obsessed with trying to get that moment back. The thing is -- we can't. We have to move forward. Sure, it might be the end of 'us', but that doesn't diminish what we had. Not by any means.

Because there's always a next 'summer'. Another moment. Approach each one as if it were your last, and in the end, you'll die with a life.

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



Mars Attacks Suicidal Tendencies
Mars Attacks Podcast takes a look at Suicidal Tendencies' self-titled debut with special guests Charlie Benante (Anthrax), Gene Hoglan (too many to list), Alan Tecchio (Seven Witches), author Martin Popoff, Mark Strigl from Talking Metal, and Aaron from Iron City Rocks.

Mars Attacks also features written comments from members of Guns N Roses, Madball, Cancer Bats, White Wizzard, Gypsyhawk, Death Angel, and Forbidden among others.

You may read the aforementioned comments, stream or download the podcast right here



Nachtmystium Take You Further Behind Silencing Machine
Nachtmystium have released the third of five in-studio videos featuring exclusive footage and interviews to prepare fans for the release of their new album.

Filmed and edited by Justin Baron, who recently did the YAKUZA documentary, part 3 spotlights bassist Will Lindsay, and it can be viewed here

Nachtmystium's new album, Silencing Machine, will be released on July 30th in Europe and July 31st in North America.



Dream Theater's Jordan Rudess Releases New iApp
Dream Theater's Jordan Rudess released, Tachyon, his latest iOS app this week via iTunes. We were sent these details:

Tachyon allows images and sound to become one as they magically blend under the user's fingertips. Each note played is an individual expression, allowing independent control of pitch and tone far beyond that of traditional instruments. Most instruments only allow the user to play one sound at a time, but with Tachyon they can seamlessly blend between any two sounds as they slide their fingers up and down the screen. The visual experience of Tachyon is just as mesmerizing; fields of twinkling stars morph into the shape of the selected instrument, allowing a direct correlation between sight and sound.

As described by Jordan Rudess, "Tachyon is simple to use and at the same time it offers a unique musical expressive power. The sonic core of the app is a custom-crafted sound set from my personal library, encompassing sounds as familiar as those you would find in your home toolbox, and as exclusive as the ones I use on tour with Dream Theater." more on this story



This Is Hell Deliver Acid Rain Video
This Is Hell have released a new music video for the song "Acid Rain," which comes from their album, Black Mass.

The new video, directed by Jamie Horton, can be viewed on the band's Tumblr page here.

This Is Hell recently wrapped up the "Great American Thrash" summer headlining tour in support of Black Mass. The band will kick off a European run early next month.

Today's Day In Rock News!!

AC/DC Used As Weapon Against Iran
(Classic Rock) A computer virus that infected nuclear establishments in Iran forced machines to play AC/DC hit track Thunderstruck at full volume, claims an expert.
Mikki Hypponen of Finnish security firm F-Secure says he received a number of alert messages from the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran, Gawker reports.

"Our nuclear program has once again been compromised and attacked by a worm which has shut down our network at Natanz and Fordo. The automation network and hardware were shut down," One email said. "There was also some music playing randomly during the middle of the night with the volume maxed out. I believe it was Thunderstruck by AC/DC." more on this story



Punk Band To Remain Jailed Without Trial
(Classic Rock) The three jailed members of Russian punk band Pussy Riot will remain behind bars until January without trial.

A court yesterday refused their application for release on bail following their arrest in February on charges of hooliganism, which could result in a sentence of seven years if they're tried and found guilty.

Musicians Nadya, Masha and Katya will have been in prison for 11 months if the hearing goes ahead next year. And what was their big crime?



Don Dokken Close To Being Suicide Bombing Victim
(TMZ) Don Dokken (singer of the band Dokken) came dangerously close to becoming a victim in the recent Bulgaria suicide bombing ... telling TMZ, he was on the same bus that was bombed ... just ONE DAY before the deadly explosion.

In case you didn't know ... a bus carrying Israeli tourists in Varna, Bulgaria was targeted by a suicide bomber last week, killing 5 and injuring 30 more.

Now, Dokken -- who was in Bulgaria for a rock music festival -- tells us, he nearly became another statistic -- because he took the same Varna bus just a day before the bombing.

Had he been held up an additional few hours, he might have been killed too. more on this story




Queen, Who and Zeppelin Stars Call For Filesharing Crackdown
(Gibson) A group of British musicians have signed a letter to U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron, calling for government to do more to stem the tide of illegal music downloads.

BraveWords.com reports that Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend (The Who), Robert Plant (Led Zeppelin) and Brian May (Queen) are among those who signed the note.

The musicians suggest that the British economy could be strengthened if illegal file sharing laws were enforced more strictly. They have requested the implementation of the 2010 Digital Economy Act, which forces internet service providers, search engines and advertisers to prevent users from going to sites with illegal content. more on this story




KISS and Motley Crue Give Hiring Our Heroes Program $250K
(hennemusic) The night before KISS and Motley Crue kicked off their summer co-headlining tour, KISS performed a private show for US troops and veterans at Jiffy Lube Live in Bristow, Virginia.

Prior to the concert, KISS and the Crue presented a check for $250,000 to the National Chamber Foundation's Hiring Our Heroes program.

"A free country's greatest national treasure are the people that make that country free," said Paul Stanley. "You are heroes. None of us could enjoy the freedom that we have without the sacrifices that you people make for us. God bless our troops. God bless America." more on this story



Aerosmith Reaction To Steven Tyler Leaving American Idol
(Classic Rock) Aerosmith bassist Tom Hamilton says singer Steven Tyler's decision to quit TV gameshow American Idol came after band meetings aimed at hammering out a solution.

Hamilton says: "The thing is it turned out to be quite a demand on his time. The whole plan of how we were going to deal with Idol is something we hammered out last year. It almost got to the point of using real hammers."

The bassists says Tyler's schedule caused few problems with the recording process, but continues: "What would have slowed us down is if we released the album and only had a few weeks to tour behind it. What pleases me most is that if we want to extent the tour we can now do it." He also discussed how he deals with his cancer battle.



GWAR, DevilDriver, Cancer Bats Tour
Gwar will be landing in North America this fall for their Fate or Chaos Tour which will also include DevilDriver, Cancer Bats and Legacy of Disorder.

The trek is currently scheduled to kick off October 12th in Philadelphia, PA and run through November 26th in Millvale, PA. More dates are expected to be added in the coming weeks.

As always, Gwar offered up a humorous announcement for the tour: When asked for comment on the upcoming tour, GWAR front-thing Oderus Urungus muttered something incoherent, then when prodded a bit more muttered something else incoherent. After the third attempt for comment something more intelligible came from the mouth of the warty one: "Once again GWAR returns, hoof and nail, to our old stomping grounds, North America, on a tour of utter destruction, and this time nothing less than the greatest power in the universe will do as our primary victim! That's right, this time GWAR, fresh from our battle with Death, takes on another of history's biggest assholes...God himself! Seeing as we don't have the new album done yet, we really had to do something spectacular..." more on this story



All-American Rejects and Boys Like Girls Fall Tour
The All-American Rejects will be teaming up with Boys Like Girls this fall for a North American coheadlining tour.

The tour is set to kick off September 13 in Hampton Beach, NH and will feature support from The Ready Set and Parachute

"I've always been a big fan of The All-American Rejects and couldn't be more delighted to be sharing the stage with them this fall," Boys Like Girls frontman Martin Johnson says. "I think it's going be a great time for both the fans and bands alike. Looking forward to a really great couple of months." more on this story



Slash Reflects On Guns N' Roses' Appetite For Destruction
(hennemusic) Guns N' Roses' "Appetite For Destruction" is marking its 25th anniversary this year. The record that put GNR on the global stage has reportedly accumulated worldwide sales in excess of 30 million since its 1987 release, including 18 million in the US alone.

Former GNR axeman Slash was asked about the creation of "Appetite" in a new interview with Fuse TV.

"'Welcome To The Jungle' was one of the first Guns N Roses' collaborative songs that we ever wrote together," says Slash. "It was definitely one of the first songs we made a demo of. When it came time to put the album together, as far as sequencing was concerned, I think it was a given that 'Welcome To The Jungle' was going to be the flagship song for the record." Watch the interview here.



Maximo Park Plan First Tour in Five Years
Maximo Park will be embarking on their first tour in five years this fall, which includes eight U.S. dates will support from Stagnant Pools, Zambri, and The Neighbourhood.

Maximo Park will be touring in support of their new album "The National Health" which was released digitally on July 3 with a physical release date of August 28.

Maximo Park's Paul Smith says, "we've been waiting for a few years to make our return to North America and now, with "The National Health" under our belts, we're pleased to announce some new dates! The new album is a crowd-pleasing blockbuster (in our not so humble opinion!) so spread the word and let's make these shows special. We assure our American friends we'll make it up to them with a dose of pure, melodic, ROCK!" more on this story



Rock Hall To Honor Chuck Berry
(Gibson) Rock and roll and guitar pioneer Chuck Berry, who turns 86 in October, is set to be honored by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame through its American Music Masters series this year.

The guitar great, who still duck-walks on stage with his trusty Gibson ES-335s and ES-355s, will be the focus of a weeklong celebration in Cleveland starting October 22 and finishing with an all-star concert, featuring Mr. Berry, on October 27.

The Belfast Telegraph reports that Berry said that he's: "looking forward to reelin' and rockin' in Cleveland." more on this story





Dave Grohl Pens Liner Notes For New Beatles Compilation
(Gibson) To mark the release of a new iTunes Beatles compilation, Tomorrow Never Knows, Foo Fighter Dave Grohl has written some words outlining his love of the British band.

"If it weren't for The Beatles, I would not be a musician," he said according to NME.com. "The Beatles seemed to be capable of anything. They knew no boundaries, and in that freedom they seemed to define what we now know today as Rock and Roll."

Grohl also reveals that his six-year old daughter is also a fan, saying, "From one generation to the next, The Beatles will remain the most important rock band of all time. Just ask Violet." more on this story





INXS Including Unseen Michael Hutchence Footage on Kick Reissue
(Gibson) Australian rock band INXS will celebrate the 25th anniversary of their groundbreaking Kick album by reissuing the record along with unseen footage of Michael Hutchence footage and previously unseen handwritten lyrics from the charismatic singer who passed in 1997.

The U.K.'s Daily Express newspaper reports that the deluxe set will be released in September. The band's manager Chris Murphy said: "It'll be an amazing, super-duper package. There's stuff that was recorded with Michael for Kick that didn't go on the album."

There are also plans for the band, with singer Ciaran Gribbin, to perform Kick in its entirety in Australia this year. more on this story





Roger Waters Takes Stand Against Autograph Business
(Gibson) Rock legend Roger Waters, the biggest-selling live act of 2012 so far, has stopped signing autographs.

According to the Daily Express, the Pink Floyd legend is upset about the commercialization of the autograph business.

Waters told the Daily Telegraph, "I don't sign any guitars or scratch-plates or anything like that any more. There's a little sort of industry that's about eBay. It's about getting a little bit of you that they can sell to somebody who cares, and I find that ugly." more on this story





Paul McCartney Pokes Fun at Springsteen Jam Interruption
(Gibson) Paul McCartney has posted a rehearsal video promoting the upcoming Olympics concert at his website, PaulMcCartney.com.

Macca shows that the famous Beatle humor is alive and well when responding to his July 14 concert appearance with Bruce Springsteen, which was ended by the power being disconnected (for curfew reasons).

In the video, his rehearsal is abruptly ended. You can watch the video clip right here.





Ringworm Releasing Live Album Next Month
Ringworm informed fans on Facebook yesterday that they will be releasing their very first live album next month.

The album will be called 'Stigmatas In The Flesh' and will be issued by A389 Recordings. They offer up a preview here. They had these details about the show and the album:

Recorded in 2010 at A389's 6th Anniversary Bash (aka The Show That Ends The World), anyone there could testify that there was a lot of tension in the air that night. After Gehenna's set almost ended in a riot, Ringworm took the stage and just leveled the place with their most vicious set in years. more on this story



Fleetwood Mac's Jeremy Spencer Sets New CD Release
Original Fleetwood Mac guitarist Jeremy Spencer will be releasing his album, "Bend in the Road" on CD on August 28, 2012. Glass Onyon sent over these details:

On April 21st, legendary guitarist Jeremy Spencer, an original member of Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac, member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and featured artist on Propelz, released a limited edition double vinyl album titled 'Bend In The Road' for International Record Store Day.

The release packs a "vintage vibe" by way of Jeremy's handmade touch, fusing his artistry as a consummate slide guitarist, singer/songwriter, interpreter, and illustrator. His evocative watercolor graces the timeless gatefold cover, recalling enduring albums when records were the sum of their parts and made with consequence. more on this story



Twin Atlantic Hitting The Road With The Used
The Used have invited Twin Atlantic to support them on their upcoming West Coast tour dates.

The tour begins on September 18 at The Fox Theater in Pomona, CA, and includes stops in Sacramento, Reno, and other cities before ending on September 28 in Boise, ID.

Before returning Stateside for The Used Tour, Twin Atlantic are scheduled to appear on the NME/Radio 1 Stage at the Reading and Leeds Festivals in late August. This Fall, they will embark on their largest headline UK tour to date including 2 sold out homecoming shows at Barrowland Ballroom in Glasgow. more on this story



Blessed By A Broken Heart Change Singers
There has been a lineup change in Blessed By A Broken Heart with their guitarist Sam Ryder taking over vocal duties from Tony Gambino, who is leaving the band for personal reasons. The band issued the following:

Gambino has released a video statement explaining his decision, which is excerpted here: "This is one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make. But I recently decided to leave the touring life so I can stay home with my family. With that said, I have some exciting news - I'm super stoked to announce that Sam Ryder is going to be stepping in as lead vocalist, and I couldn't be more honored to have anyone else take my spot. Sam is a world class musician and vocalist and I have nothing but confidence in him." Watch the full statement here.

By filling the "vacant position" of singer from within, the international shred-metal group can ensure fans of a fluid, flawless transition into the next era of Blessed By A Broken Heart's music. Driving that point home is the release of a previously unheard track, "Out of Control" - featuring vocals from the newly promoted Sam Ryder - that illustrates in no uncertain terms his talent and capability as the band's new frontman. more on this story



L.A. Guns Respond To Tracii Guns Announcement
L.A. Guns have responded to comments made by the group's namesake Tracii Guns in a recent interview that he is retiring his version of the group.

The group sent out the following: All the members of L.A. Guns (Phil Lewis, Steve Riley, Stacey Blades, and Scotty Griffin) believe this will help everyone to move on from the past, from the confusion, and wish Tracii all the best in the future.

L.A. Guns continues to tour the U.S. and Europe in support of the critically-acclaimed new record, Hollywood Forever. more on this story



45 Grave Releasing First New Album in 2 Decades
45 Grave have set an August 14th release date for their first full length release of new material in 19 years, Pick Your Poison. They sent out these details:

The current incarnation of the 45 Grave is fronted by founding member Dinah Cancer and features a new line-up featuring Adolescents founding member Frank Agnew.

Known primarily for the bands goth/deathrock/goth-rock sound they solidified in the '80's, 45 Grave have released a new release that is more musically adventurous than previous efforts. Cancer credits Agnew with the guts and the honesty to push the bands boundaries while still remaining true to their roots more on this story



B Sides


Singled Out: Boy Meets Machine
Today Joel Monet from Boy Meets Machine tells us about the song "Under Your Bed" from their brand new album "War Horn". Here is the story:

Under Your Bed was one of the very first songs Joel wrote when we were tossing around the idea of putting together a 'futuristic rock' group in 2009.

It came together in about a week along with a couple other tunes that our listeners are likely never to hear. All the guitars and vocals were tracked into my friend John Baxley's Line 6 Toneport UX2 which produced an incredibly shrill tone. Since I was writing it as a single, very little forethought went into the lyric writing process or chord structure but it seemed to resonate with our Australian fan base as we managed to amass over 50,000 plays in a matter of weeks within its first demo release on Myspace.

Fast Forward to the Future... We are now playing a much heavier version of the same basic tune with slightly abridged lyrics, lower 7 string guitar tuning, a slower tempo, and the diabolical guitar melodies of Christian Colabelli.

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



Chickenfoot Star Jams 'You Really Got Me' With Steel Panther
(hennemusic) After spending some time on the road promoting their latest album, "Balls Out," Steel Panther have returned to their regular Monday night gigs at the House Of Blues in Hollywood.

This week, Steep Panther were joined by special guest Kenny Aronoff, currently the fill-in drummer for Chickenfoot while Chad Smith continues his road work with the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Aronoff sat in with Panther as they launched into The Kinks classic, "You Really Got Me." Watch it here.



Korn and Godsmack Headlining ShipRocked 2012
Korn and Godsmack are set to headline the fourth annual ShipRocked, the annual rock themed cruise, which is set to sail from November 27 to December 1 this year.

Other lineup additions for ShipRocked 2012 include Pop Evil, Helmet, The Halo Method (featuring Ben Moody, ex-Evanescence/We Are The Fallen; Dave Buckner, ex-Papa Roach; and Lukas Rossi, winner of Rockstar Supernova), Dead Sara, Write This Down and Andy Wood & The Amalgam.

"I did a cruise last year DJing as J Devil, and it was a f**king blast--such a great time," says Jonathan Davis of Korn. "We're really looking forward to doing it this year as Korn with Monster Energy and all these great musicians. This is going to be an unbelievable event." more on this story



Sebastian Bach Rock Fest Video Footage Goes Online
(hennemusic) This past weekend, Sebastian Bach played Wisconsin's Rock Fest on the fourth and final night of the event; Sebastian was third on the bill behind headliners Def Leppard and Poison.

Bach is currently touring North America in support of his 2011 release, "Kicking & Screaming."

Pros-shot footage of Sebastian performing the song "As Long As I Got The Music" at Rock Fest has now surfaced

Today's Day In Rock News!

Aerosmith's New Album Delay Explained
(hennemusic) Aerosmith guitarist Brad Whitford explained why the release of the band's new album, "Music From Another Dimension," was pushed back until November 6 from the original August 28th release date.
"It's unfortunate," Whitford tells the Long Branch-Eatontown Patch. "We were going to have the song 'Legendary Child' as part of a movie soundtrack that was going to come out this summer and the movie ["G.I. Joe: Retaliation"] was delayed to next year, so the whole marketing campaign that went along with that and the album's release went right down the toilet. So the record company wanted time for a whole new approach and they wanted to get a slot to release the album they thought would be good for it. It'll be worth the wait."

Whitford's comments follow those of singer Steven Tyler, who told the Alan Cox Show on 100.7 WMMS Cleveland last month that "Too many people [other notable recording artists] are releasing [new albums] those weeks [in late summer]. We don't wanna step on their release dates. So we just said, 'You know what?! We've got the goods… ain't no doubt about it. We'll wait another couple of months.'" Find out what Tom Hamilton had to say about it.



Bruce Springsteen Felt Suicidal In The 80s
(Classic Rock) Bruce Springsteen battled suicidal thoughts in the early 1980s, he's revealed. The Boss began seeing a psychotherapist as a result of his childhood relationship with his father along with experiencing a mixed reaction to achieving fame and fortune.

Many of his songs discuss the difficulties of dealing with his father's own depression, and fears he'd have to face similar demons – which turned out to be true. Springsteen tells the New Yorker: "My issues weren't as obvious as drugs. Mind were different. They were quieter – just as problematic, but quieter."

His friend and biographer Dave Marsh says: "He was feeling suicidal. The depression wasn't shocking, per se. He was on a rocket ride from nothing to something. Now you're getting your ass kissed day and night. You start to have some inner conflicts about your real self-worth."

But along with help from his associates, the Boss found solace on stage. more on this story



Layne Staley Replacement For Pearl Jam Side Project Found?
(Banana 101.5) Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready recently revealed that there is roughly an album's worth of songs that the mid-90′s side project, Mad Season, never got to record with vocalist Layne Staley before his return to Alice in Chains and eventual death. Now it appears that Screaming Trees singer Mark Lanegan will lend his voice to the project that may be out as early as this year.

Mad Season was a side project featuring Staley and John Baker Saunders on bass (both of whom are now deceased) with McCready and Screaming Trees drummer Barrett Martin rounding out the lineup. The band almost became more than just a passing side project, as both Pearl Jam and Alice in Chains were going through "growing pains." Ultimately, Staley returned to AIC and Pearl Jam moved forward as well.

During the time following the release of their only album, 'Above,' the group reconvened without Staley and recorded a number of demos. "We have 13 unreleased songs we never did," McCready explained before announcing his intentions to draft another singer to finish the songs. We're trying to find singers that are up to the caliber of Layne to do justice to it. I know a lot of [great singers] but it's just getting the commitment." And how does Lanegan now figure into it?



Metallica, Iron Maiden, Santana and More Tribute Deep Purple
(hennemusic) Deep Purple's landmark 1972 album, "Machine Head," is getting the tribute treatment.

"Re-Machined: A Tribute To Machine Head" is a compilation CD featuring re-interpretations of songs by Metallica, Iron Maiden, Chickenfoot, Carlos Santana, Black Label Society and more.

The disc will be made available with Classic Rock magazine's upcoming Deep Purple fanpack. Due on September 4, the fanpack also comes with an in-depth, official, band-endorsed 124-page magazine featuring exclusive interviews with Metallica, Maiden, Chickenfoot, Joe Bonamassa and Steve Vai. more on this story



Dream Theater Plan New DVD
(Gibson) Dream Theater are planning to shoot a live DVD in Argentina in August. Dream Theater have traditionally followed up most album releases with a corresponding DVD based on a particular theme or exotic location. The new DVD will be the band's first to feature new drummer Mike Mangini, who took over after Mike Portnoy departed in 2010.

Vocalist James LaBrie told Tri-State Rock that the band planned to work with Mike Leonard, who was responsible for The Spirit Carries On, the three-part documentary which the band used to chronicle their drummer auditions and the decision to welcome Mangini into the band. "We're using Rich Chycki, who's worked on the last few Rush albums as engineer and mixer, and he also worked on the 30th-anniversary DVD with Rush," LaBrie said. "And we have some technological things that are gonna be going on this DVD that should make it quite interesting."

Dream Theater will film two nights – August 19 and 20 – at Estadio Luna Park in Buenos Aires. "It's a beautiful, beautiful area, and it will be outside, so hopefully the weather gods will work in our favor," LaBrie said. "But yeah, it's a really great place. We thought it was the perfect venue for us to do this DVD. And we're pretty stoked. I think it's gonna be very cool, very unique, and I think it should step it up, once again, from our last official DVD, which was Score, at Radio City Music Hall." more on this story





Rob Zombie, Shinedown, Marilyn Manson Lead Rock Vegas Lineup
Rob Zombie, Shinedown, Marilyn Manson, Godsmack and Staind lead the lineup for Rock Vegas.

The two-day music festival will take place on Friday, September 28 and Saturday, September 29 at Mandalay Bay Resort in Las Vegas.

The event will also feature Stone Sour, Adelitas Way, All That Remains, P.O.D., Art of Dying, Redlight King, New Medicine, Deuce, Otherwise and more. more on this story



Former Black Sabbath Singer Hopes Bill Ward Returns
(Gibson) Tony Martin says he knows his former Black Sabbath bandmates love drummer Bill Ward, and he hopes they can come to an agreement which would see Ward return to the band for their in-progress reunion album.

In an interview with Born Music Online, Martin said he didn't understand the fuss over "this Bill Ward stuff. I spent 10 years with the band and not once did they speak badly of Bill Ward. They love him, so why didn't they go the extra yard to make it work?"

Martin released five albums with Black Sabbath, including a few which remain critically acclaimed (Headless Cross and Cross Purposes), and he shared the stage with three quarters of Sabbath's founding members when Ward joined Martin, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler for a 1994 South American tour. more on this story





The Wallflowers Giving Away New Song Feature Clash Legend
The Wallflowers are giving fans a free MP3 download of their newest single, "Reboot The Mission."

Following yesterday's exclusively stream on RollingStone.com, the band is offering a FREE Mp3 download of the track on their website.

The song of the lead off single from the band's new album, Glad All Over, which hits stores October 2nd, features legendary Clash guitarist Mick Jones on vocals and guitar. more on this story



The Outlaws Releasing First New Album in 18 Years
The Outlaws have set a September 25th release date for "It's About Pride," their first new album in 18 years.

"Because The Outlaws have been out of the public eye for so long, it's almost like starting over," explains singer/songwriter/guitarist Henry Paul.

"But because of the band's history, we're seeing this as a new chapter. We've written and recorded this album on our own terms, and we're out to make a significant impression. What our fans loved then they still love now, because we are just as good or even better than we were. Most of all, they recognize the heart of what it is we still do." more on this story



KISS and Motley Crue Heading South
(hennemusic) KISS and Motley Crue launched their summer North American tour on Friday. The pair of classic rockers will play more than 40 shows before the trek wraps up in Hartford, CT. on September 23.

A week after the North American dates finish, KISS will play a series of newly-announced concerts in Mexico.

KISS will play Mexico City (September 29 with Motley Crue) and Monterrey (October 1 - KISS only). more on this story



Less Than Jake 20th Anniversary Tour
Less Than Jake will be celebrating their 20th anniversary with late summer tour featuring support from A Wilhelm Scream and Junior Battles.

The dates will take place in the Northeast and Midwest between Riot Fest Toronto and Riot Fest Dallas, with Riot Fest Chicago included in the middle.

This tour is part of Less Than Jake's 20th Anniversary Tour, a year-long celebration of the band's second decade together. This year has taken the band across the northeast, to South America, and across the pond to the UK and Europe so far. more on this story



Rush Clockwork Angels: The Novel Special Limited Editions Coming
(hennemusic) ECW Press have announced two very special, limited editions of "Clockwork Angels: The Novel," the side project of the latest Rush album.

The Silver Edition, slipcased and autographed by authors Kevin J. Anderson and Rush drummer/lyricist Neil Peart, will be available in a limited edition of 300 copies. It will be available for $74.95 from ECW Press and rushbackstage.com.

The Gold Edition, slipcased and signed by both authors, is accompanied by a lithograph image from the book, signed by artist Hugh Syme, and a unique autographed page of the original Clockwork Angels manuscript. Both pieces are presented in an attractive frame with an engraved and numbered plate. With only 302 copies available, the Gold Edition will retail for $299.95. more on this story



Henry Rollins Cast In New TV and Web Series
OMEN Communications informs up that Henry Rollins has been cast in the new web and TV series Dark Prophet, with the show's pilot scheduled to begin shooting this summer in Los Angeles. They provided these details:

Dark Prophet is set to debut on-screen this fall. The plot follows Dai Shepherd, an extraordinarily gifted, yet rebellious music student with time-traveling abilities who discovers that government Intelligence agency, Black Box, has a catastrophic secret embedded in song patterns--Dai is the key to saving the world as we know it.

In addition to Rollins, the cast includes Josh Meyers ("That '70s Show"), Rick Gonzalez ("Reaper"), Bill A. Jones ("Glee"), and rising star, Chase Fein in the role of Dai Shepherd. more on this story



Slash Recruits Foxy Shazam For Fall Tour
Slash has tapped Foxy Shazam as a support act for the former Guns N' Roses guitarist's Fall tour.

The North American trek will be running from September 4 to October 4, culminating at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles.

Foxy Shazam will be hitting the road with Slash in support of their album, The Church of Rock and Roll. more on this story



Aimee Mann and The Voice's Beverly McClellan On Steve Vai's New Album
Favored Nation reminds us that Steve Vai has set an August 14th release date for his new studio album, The Story of Light, which will feature a special duet with Aimee Mann.

The 12-song set continues a conceptual and cosmic narrative arc that began with the artist's most recent studio release, 2005's acclaimed Real Illusions: Reflections.

Although The Story of Light is largely instrumental, the album does feature guest vocalists including singer-songwriter Aimee Mann-dueting with Vai on "No More Amsterdam," which she also co-wrote. Beverly McClellan, a season one finalist on The Voice, appears on "John the Revelator," a track inspired by a vintage recording of blues singer Blind Willie Johnson, whose acid-soaked vocals are in the mix as well. Other highlights include the title track (which opens the album), "Gravity Storm," "The Moon and I," and "Velorum." more on this story



Vigilance Begin Work On New Album
Metal Tank Records have signed Vigilance to a new record deal and will release the band's sophomore album.

A release date has not been announced but the band is ready to begin recording the effort and offered these comments:

"We are thrilled to announce that we are returning to Zalokar studios. The time is at hand to record the successor of our debut album 'Steeds of Time'. We have been working harder than ever before so you can expect nothing but fast, dark and untamed heavy metal!" You can check out a live video from the band here.



Loverboy Helped Bob Rock Escape From Michael Buble
(Classic Rock) Loverboy presented Bob Rock with a perfect opportunity to escape from working with pop star Michael Buble.

The Canadian AOR outfit's history with the producer goes back to their roots. As a member of the Payolas Rock started out in the same province as Loverboy, and manned the desk for their 1980 self-titled debut and four later outings.

These days Rock is known for his work with Metallica, Motley Crue and the Cult among many others – but earlier this year he found time in his schedule to reunite with Loverboy. more on this story



B Sides


Rush's Lifeson Laments The Fall Of The Album Format
(Gibson) Rush's Alex Lifeson is fiercely forward-looking when it comes to the band's music, but he's saddened that albums no longer reign as the premier musical format.

"We grew up with albums, and for us, the album was always the thing," he told M-Music and Musicians. "We've never been a singles band. We've released singles, sure, and we've had some moderate success with some, but we've never been that kind of band. So yes, I'm sorry to see the album and everything it represented go. It was like a book, and now you're buying chapters that don't always relate to the whole book."

Still, Lifeson said it "was fun" releasing a couple of songs from the band's new album, Clockwork Angels, as teasers. "It got us thinking that in the future we might record two or three songs and release them every six months," he said. "But for now, especially with a project this size, an album was the only way to go." more on this story





Why Eddie Van Halen Donated 75 Guitars
(hennemusic) Earlier this year, Eddie Van Halen donated 75 electric guitars from his personal collection to the Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports music education in public schools across the country.

Per Van Halen's request, the Foundation distributed the guitars to music programs in public schools throughout the Los Angeles area where there are not enough instruments to meet the demand of students enrolled.

"Music is the universal language. It has the ability to transcend and convey every human emotion that exists without saying a word," said Eddie. "Music kept me off the streets and out of trouble and gave me something that was mine that no one could take away from me. Music education and families are dealing with the economic times, and I wanted to help them. If I can help a kid discover a liking, or even a passion for music in their life, then that's a wonderful thing. Music has provided a good life for me and hopefully it can help make life better for others with this donation." more on this story



Rob Zombie Remixed
(Gibson) Rob Zombie will release Mondo Sex Head, an album of remixes by some of today's top DJs, on August 7. The album includes remixes by Korn's Jonathan "JDevil" Davis, Photek, the Bloody Beetroots, Drumcorps and Ki:Theory.

It was curated and executive produced by Jason Bentley, music director at L.A.'s influential KCRW and electronic dance music expert. It was supervised by Richard Bishop, co-executive producer of the RE:GENERATION music project and documentary film. But the final say was Zombie's: he hand-selected each track, road-testing many in his car while driving around L.A. "I like the idea of taking songs and reconfiguring them," Zombie explains.

The album will be preceded by two separate digital-only EPs featuring tracks taken from Mondo Sex Head and exclusive bonus tracks. Mondo Sex Head will be released by Universal Music Enterprises (UMe).

Today's Day In Rock News!

Sebastian Bach Caught In Guns N' Roses Crossfire
(Classic Rock) Sebastian Bach has a hard time remaining friends with people on both sides of the Guns N' Roses split, he says. And he's frustrated that radio stations featuring his former band Skid Row on heavy rotation have failed to even mention his recent solo album.
Bach remains friends with GnR frontman Axl Rose and former bassist Duff McKagan. He's recently worked with both. But he found himself in a crossfire situation over the band's induction into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame, which Rose eventually decided not to attend.

"I just played with Duff and Matt Sorum in a band called the Rock'n'Roll Allstars with Gene Simmons and Joe Elliott. I'm also friends with Axl, and I don't want to piss off either side," Bach tells CleveScene. "When I stick up for Axl, Duff gets mad at me. When I stick up for Duff, Axl gets mad at me. It's totally true." He has a lot more to say.


Band Stops Label From Going After File-Sharing Fans
All Shall Perish were surprised back in April when they discovered that 80 people were facing up to $150,000 in damages in a lawsuit for sharing one of the band's albums via BitTorrent.

At the time that news of the lawsuit surfaced the band told fans on their Facebook page: "ALL SHALL PERISH ISN'T SUING ANYONE, least of all our fans. No idea what this blog is talking about. WE AREN'T SUING ANYONE. We have no knowledge of any lawsuit. Our management and legal representation know nothing about it. Nobody from this blog contacted us to ask about it, either. We are looking into it and exploring our options."

Last week the band's label announced: "Nuclear Blast also respects bands such as All Shall Perish that do not wish to pursue file sharers. All Shall Perish was not consulted about this course of action and did not wish to participate in it whatsoever. When they learned about it, they immediately asked us to cease all legal action against their fans, file traders or otherwise, as soon as they learned this action had been taken in their name. Therefore Nuclear Blast and World Digital Rights decided recently to stop legal actions against the file sharing with songs from the band All Shall Perish." Read the label's full statement.



Iron Maiden Vs Texting 'Wanker'
(hennemusic) Iron Maiden are halfway through the North American portion of their "Maiden England World Tour."

On Thursday, Maiden rolled into Indianapolis for a show at the Klipsch Music Center, along with tour mate Alice Cooper.

During their headlining set, Maiden singer Bruce Dickinson busted a fan for not paying attention. "Oh, for fuck's sake, the man the white shirt, you've been texting for the last three fucking songs! You're a wanker!," said Dickinson to wild applause at the opening of "Wasted Years." Check out video here.



Staind Not Breaking Up
Staind frontman Aaron Lewis reassures fans in a new interview that the band is just taking a break and they will return.

"We've got this next tour and we might do something next year and then we're going to take a little break for a second," he tells Billboard.

"We're not breaking up. We're not gonna stop making music. We're just going to take a little hiatus that really hasn't ever been taken in our career. We put out seven records in 14 years. We've been pretty busy." Read the Billboard report here.



Iwrestledabearonce Singer Permanently Gone?
It looks like Krysta Cameron's absence from Iwrestledabearonce may be permanent, this according to a comment in an interview with the band.

Earlier this month the band announced that they had recruited Courtney LaPlante to sing for them on this summer's Warp tour after their singer Krysta Cameron discovered she was pregnant.

However, Propertyofzack.com asked the band "Krysta being pregnant I would imagine makes the band re-imagine some things. What may change until she's ready to go again? Or might she leave permanently?" and bass player Mike "Ricky" Martin responded "I'm going to say she's permanently gone." But Mikey Montgomery added "Fingers crossed though." You can read the full interview here.



Judas Priest Including Us Fest DVD on Screaming 30th Anniversary Edition
(hennemusic) Judas Priest are marking the 30th Anniversary of their 1982 album, "Screaming For Vengeance," with an expanded version of the release, which is due on September 4 (one day earlier internationally).

"Screaming For Vengeance – Special 30th Anniversary Edition" will feature not only the remastered original album plus bonus tracks, but also a live DVD from the 1983 US Festival show, filmed in San Bernardino, CA on May 29, 1983.

The US Festival was intended to be a celebration of evolving technologies; a marriage of music, computers, television and people — organized by Steve Wozniak, formerly of Apple. The "Screaming For Vengeance – Special 30th Anniversary Edition" live DVD was filmed at the second, and what turned out to be last, US Festival in 1983. Headlined by Van Halen, Sunday was the Heavy Metal Day, billed as "the day new wave died and rock 'n' roll took over." It set the single-day concert attendance record for the U.S. with an estimated 375,000 people. more on this story



Slayer's Hanneman Flesh-Eating Disease Free But Still Needs To Recover
(Gibson) Slayer guitarist Jeff Hanneman is free of the flesh-eating disease that struck him early last year, but his rehabilitation continues.

Speaking to Billboard.com, Slayer bassist-vocalist Tom Araya said, "Jeff's had a long ordeal. He's working on his playing ability, and that's something that's going to take some time. He's working on strengthening his arm and his ability to play. He can play, but it's not for an extended period of time. Like anything else when you have some kind of not only muscle damage but nerve damage, it takes a bit for a lot of your functions to come back. They're not going to come back easy and quick."

Araya praised Exodus guitarist Gary Holt for the "fantastic job" he's done filling in for Hanneman, but still he longs for Hanneman's return. "I just kind of look [on-stage] and think, 'Jeff, God, where are you? You worked 30 years for this. You should be here,'" Araya said. "He should be enjoying this part of his career. I can't wait for him to [be back]." more on this story





Cheap Trick and Aerosmith Jam Goes Online
(hennemusic) Cheap Trick have been rocking North America this summer as part of Aerosmith's Global Warming tour.

This past week, the classic rockers played two shows in Aerosmith's hometown of Boston.

On the second night, Aerosmith guitarist Brad Whitford joined Cheap Trick for their cover of Fats Domino's "Ain't That A Shame." Watch it here.



Izzy Reunites With Guns N' Roses For Wedding Jam
(hennemusic) Guns N' Roses played a private wedding concert in Saint-Tropez, France Saturday night.

The last-minute show featured guest Izzy Stradlin, who sat in with his former brand for most of the set.

GNR guitarist Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal tweeted the news, writing, "Wow. Diverted without info (or gear or clothes or sleep) to play a wedding in France. Yep. Guess it's not *one show left*", adding, "Crew working dangerously nonstop due to added show. Not ok with that..." More including photos.



Blink-182's Travis Barker Suffering From Six Ulcers
(Classic Rock) Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker was forced to give up drugs after doctors found six ulcers in his stomach.

Barker tells Red Bulletin: "I used to love smoking weed. I would smoke at night if I had anxiety. I always thought I'd be able to do it for the rest of my life.

"But when your health is on the line you don't mess around. I love being a dad and I love playing music – I'm not trying to give up any of that." more on this story



33 Queen Videos Coming To DVD
(Gibson) Queen will release a new boxed set featuring the rock legend's most famous videos and promotional films.

Greatest Video Hits will include two DVDs containing 33 clips from the '70s and '80s, according to Ultimate Classic Rock.

The DVDs will include commentary from Queen members Brian May and Roger Taylor, as well as restored versions of the videos with DTS sound mixing. Greatest Video Hits will be available on August 28. more on this story





Hawkwind Fans Deemed Undesirable Or Just A Misunderstanding?
(Classic Rock) Hawkwind have been forced to cancel an all-day event in a Leicestershire venue after organisers claimed the band's fans are an undesirable audience, the band say.

The space-rock veterans were set to perform at the Conkers attraction in the National Forest, a scheme designed to create a new 200-square-mile area of woodland in central England.

They say bosses won't agree to run the September event, but they haven't been offered a full explanation. And they're astonished because the show was only booked after promoters approached the band, having enjoyed a previous festival set. But there are two sides to every story and the other side says it was a misunderstanding



Dead Sara Pull Summer Tour Plan Due To Injury
Up and comers Dead Sara have been forced to pull out of this summer's Warped Tour due to injury. The band advised fans on Thursday via their website:

"We are sad to announce that we are unable to play the remaining dates of the Vans Warped Tour due to our guitarist, Siouxsie, recently fracturing her ribs.

"Unfortunately, rib injuries are a tricky thing to heal and she has been advised to rest and recover for the next several weeks to avoid any permanent damage and cancellation of future shows."

See band's website for the latest.



Jon Anderson Plans Special One-Off Concert
Original Yes frontman Jon Anderson plans a special one-off concert on August 8th at the Sadler's Wells Theater in London.

This will be the first time Jon has performed in the UK since his successful tour with Rick Wakeman in 2010.

"The concert in London is with the Slovakian Chamber Orchestra with the help of my good friend composer Peter Machajdik plus a semi acoustic group I performed with a couple of years ago in Bratislava," says Jon. " 'Concert for Earth and Peace' – the show will be around one hour long, with classic YES songs, and Vangelis songs, plus 'Earth and Peace', a new song written with the music of Austin Haynes, and some surprises." Also performing, Miro Zbirka from Slovakia, a celebrated singer/songwriter with a career spanning 40 years. More info



George Harrison Documentary Nominated For 6 Emmys
Martin Scorsese's film 'George Harrison: Living In The Material World' has earned 6 nominations for the 2012 Emmy Awards.

We were sent these details: The film was nominated for Outstanding Nonfiction Special, Outstanding Cinematography For Nonfiction Programming, Outstanding Directing For Nonfiction Programming (Martin Scorsese), Outstanding Picture Editing For Nonfiction Programming, Outstanding Sound Editing For Nonfiction Programming (Single or Multi-Camera) and Outstanding Sound Mixing For Nonfiction Programming.

Martin Scorsese traces George Harrison's life from his musical beginnings in Liverpool through his life as a musician, a seeker, a philanthropist, and filmmaker. Scorsese weaves together interviews with Harrison and his closest friends, performances, home movies, and photographs. Much of the material in the film has never been seen (or heard) before. more on this story



Exhumed Reunite With Former Member For Summer Slaughter Tour
If you catch Exhumed on the Summer Slaughter Tour, you may notice a familiar face from the past on stage. The band have reunited with former bassist Bud Burke for the trek, which kicked off last week. Burke will taking over lead guitar duties for Wes Caley, who the band recently parted ways with.

Frontman Matt Harvey had this to say, "We're psyched to welcome Bud Burke back in the ranks of Exhumed, this time on lead guitar. For those of you who knew him as our bassist (from '99 - '04), you will be pleasantly surprised when he melts your face onstage with the band for the Summer Slaughter tour. Rob [Babcock], Mike [Hamilton] and I are all excited to have someone with killer chops and a deep history with the band on board. We look forward to coming to your town, drinking all your beer and then making fun of your record collection as usual!

"After the Canadian Ritual tour with Black Dahlia Murder, we made the decision to part ways with guitarist Wes Caley, and Bud was the perfect person to step in on lead guitar. I know Wes' new project, Downfall, is currently in the works and will be awesome and we wish him the best. In the meantime, we'll see all your drooling, sweaty faces on the road!"



Zappa Plays Van Halen
(hennemusic) Dweezil Zappa pays tribute to the legacy of his father, Frank, with his ongoing touring show Zappa Plays Zappa.

The group mixes a variety of tracks from Frank's catalogue with some choice covers of tunes by artists like the Allman Brothers and Van Halen.

Video from Zappa Plays Zappa's July 11 show in Raleigh, NC has surfaced, and the footage features an extended session of Van Halen material. Dweezil begins by sharing one of his favorite memories - how he met Eddie Van Halen. Check it out here.



The Wombats Plan American Tour With Morning Parade
The Wombats will be leaving their native Liverpool this fall, crossing the pond for a North American Tour with Morning Parade.

The 6-week nationwide tour includes stops at Austin City Limits and Seattle's Bumbershoot.

The new single off their latest album, The Wombats Proudly Present...This Modern Glitch (Bright Antenna/ILG), has been one of the band's biggest airplay records ever in the UK and Australia, marking their sixth Top 40 single overseas. The single is proving to have similar success in the U.S. - not only did it reach #1 on Sirius XM's "Alt Nation" countdown, but it just broke into the Top 25 Alternative Chart and continues to climb. more on this story



B Sides


Motley Crue Debut New Song Live
(hennemusic) KISS and Motley Crue launched their summer tour of North America on Friday in Bristow, VA.

The Crue delivered the live debut of their new single, "Sex," during Friday's tour opening; the band are expected to play it at each of the shows on the trek.

"Sex" is the Crue's first new song in four years; it was written when the band was together during their residency in Las Vegas last February. Check out video here.


The First Interview With Drowning Pool's Jasen Moreno Goes Online
Amber Lee from 93Rock in Green Bay conducted an interview with Drowning Pool's new frontman Jasen Moreno.

This is the first interview Jasen has ever done, which was conducted right after his first official show w/ the band at Rock USA in Oshkosh.

Very little is know about Moreno who just landed the gig with Drowning Pool, so this interview should act as a good introduction to fans. In addition to Moreno, the interview also includes CJ Pierce & Mike Luce. You can find the interview here.


Video Tour of Slash's Rehearsal Studio
(hennemusic) Slash continues to work hard to spread the word about his sophomore solo effort, "Apocalyptic Love."

Slash recently hooked up with Germany's Metal Hammer magazine and was joined by singer Myles Kennedy as he hosted a tour of his rehearsal studio.

"This is one of the places in L.A. where people rehearse at," says Slash. "I've been rehearsing here since the late '80s." Watch it here.


Scythia Deliver Spirit of the Quest Video
Scythia have released a new music video for their song 'Spirit of the Quest,' which comes from their sophomore album, ...Of Exile.

Scythia vocalist / guitarist Dave Khan had this to say about the new clip: "This video has been a long time in the making as we've made several attempts to capture our excitement and enthusiasm as well as the story on the album with an indie budget.

"Filming and editing it was an extremely fun and humorous process, we worked with James Weekes and Rosie Anson of Hammer Records to capture the footage. They were both great at capturing wicked content and amping us up to get into character."

Today's Day In Rock News!

The Who Plan Quadrophenia Tour
The Who held a virtual press conference yesterday to announce that they will be hitting the road for a very special North American arena tour this fall.
The trek, the legendary rockers plan to play their classic 1973 double album Quadrophenia in its entirety, along with a selection of fan favorites.

The initial 36-date leg, the band's first North American tour in four years, kicks off November 1 in Sunrise, FL with an initial six-week run. The Who will return in late January with more dates commencing January 28 in Anaheim, CA. more on this story



Guns N' Roses Focused On Writing New Music
(hennemusic) On Tuesday, Guns N' Roses played the Spaladium Arena in Split, Croatia. The day before the show, GNR members Dizzy Reed (keyboards), Tommy Stinson (bass) and DJ Ashba (guitar) sat down for an interview with K5 TV.

The guys chatted about the tour, as well as their work on new material. "That's definitely our main focus right now," said Ashba.

"We're always sort of kicking material back and forth and trying to come up with new ideas," added Reed. "Throwing it in the big melting pot that, hopefully, will become the next Guns N' Roses record."

When asked about who would be contributing new music from a songwriting standpoint, Stinson said, "It will be all these guys; it'll be all of us, probably. I wouldn't totally rule it out but probably all of us will be included in making a new record." Watch the interview here.



The J. Geils Band Reunite For Summer Tour
The J. Geils Band camp sent over word that the group will be reuniting for the 2012 Houseparty Tour of limited appearances this summer. They provided these:

The band is hitting the road with original members Peter Wolf (lead vocals), Seth Justman (keyboards), Danny Klein (bass) and Magic Dick (harmonica) and will be joined by longtime associates Duke Levine (guitar) and Tom Arey (drums). See below for tour dates.

Guitarist John Geils will not be joining this tour due to an ongoing legal dispute between The J. Geils Band and John Geils' solo record label, Francesca Records. more on this story



Randy Blythe's Bail Doubled In Manslaughter Case
(Classic Rock) Lamb of God frontman's Randy Blythe's bail has been doubled to $400,000 and the objection raised against him being freed has been overruled in a Prague court hearing which took place two says earlier than planned.

But that doesn't mean he'll be freed – the judgement is subject to the same appeal process that forced him to remain behind bars even after posting $200,000 surety following his arrest three weeks ago.

The vocalist has still not been charged for any offence, despite being accused of manslaughter after fan Daniel Nosek died in June 2010, a month after allegedly sustaining a head wound at a Lamb of God concert. Band manager Larry Mazer says he's waiting for an official letter explaining the judgement and detailing the conditions of Blythe's freedom.

Meanwhile the musician has spoken in his first interview since being jailed in the Czech Republic on June 27. See what he had to say here.



Paul McCartney Working With Mark Ronson
(Gibson) NME shared the scoop that earlier this summer Paul McCartney was in New York cutting tracks with Mark Ronson.

Of course, Ronson might be best known for shaping the sound of Amy Winehouse's classic Back to Black album.

Ronson was also responsible for producing Rufus Wainwright's latest album, Out of the Game which was released this spring. more on this story





Iron Maiden's Steve Harris Releasing Solo Album
Iron Maiden's founding member Steve Harris is planning to release his very first solo album in September.

The album, 'British Lion,' will be released September 24th in the UK (by EMI) and the 25th in the US (By UME).

Harris has launched a solo website to promote the effort at steveharrisbritishlion.com/ and put out some details about the album and what fans can expect: 'British Lion' and comprising ten songs that Steve and his collaborators have been working on for the past few years between Iron Maiden tours and releases, it is an album that will surprise and delight music fans the world over. more on this story



X Reuniting With Ray Manzarek For Full Album Show
(MI) For the first time since 1980, X will be joined by Los Angeles album producer Ray Manzarek, and play the album in its entirety, at The Roxy during the Sunset Strip Music Festival on August 17th.

Just prior to this historic show, the band will perform at the Indie West Fest in Ventura, CA on July 29th.

As announced earlier, the band will travel across the country for one East Coast show where they will, once again, join Pearl Jam as a special guest on their "Made in America" Festival date with Jay Z, taking place on September 1 & 2nd in Philadelphia. more on this story



KISS Playing Private Show For The Troops and Vets
(hennemusic) KISS have announced that they'll play a private show for US troops and veterans today at Jiffy Lube Live in Bristow, Virginia.

The show comes on the eve of the band's summer tour with Mötley Crüe, which kicks off Friday at the same location.

KISS will put on their show for over 2,000 service men and women, who were provided with free tickets to the private event. more on this story



Keith Richards Getting His Chops Back For Rolling Stones Live Return
(Gibson) The Rolling Stones are 50 years old as a band, and rumors grow of an anniversary tour. But Keith Richards has revealed he struggles to remember the band's classic hits.

He told Absolute Radio, "When you kick off a song you say, 'I can't remember how the middle bit goes,' but the fingers remember even if you don't!

"I don't practice as much as I should, probably. But now that we're putting the act together again I'm getting the chops back together."

The Rolling Stones have recently been in rehearsals, with bassist Bill Wyman back in the fold. They have yet to confirm any official shows, but Mick Jagger has said "autumn" when asked when the Stones will play live again. more on this story





Slipknot's Corey Taylor Doesn't Remember Onstage Collapse
(Classic Rock) Slipknot frontman Corey Taylor doesn't remember the details of his onstage collapse in Texas last week.

He says: "It was really, really, really hot. I kind of had a heatstroke blackout. I finished the show but I don't remember the last two songs.

"I woke up backstage – apparently I collapsed onstage. It scared the crap out of me; it's like, 'Oh, yeah, we were masks and coveralls in 110-degree heat. It's awesome.'" More rock news.



Meat Loaf Suing Tribute Singer For $100K
(Classic Rock) A Meat Loaf tribute singer is being sued for $100,000 by the Texan singer's lawyers.

But UK-based Dean Torkington, who's been impersonating the Bat Out of Hell icon since 1996, says the legal action is a case of "bullying" and he won't bow to it.

He first fell foul of Meat when he was invited backstage in 2003 – and ordered to remove artwork from his custom-painted van. more on this story



Alvin Lee Releasing On the Road to Freedom Sequel
Ten Years After's Alvin Lee will be releasing a sequel to his 1973 album, On the Road to Freedom, with the August 27th release of Still on the Road to Freedom. Conqueroo sent over these details:

Recorded at Space Studios 3 in Spain, Still on the Road to Freedom finds Lee returning to his original inspirations. Longtime band members bassist Pete Pritchard and drummer Richard Newman, along with keyboardist Tim Hinkley, join Lee in a musical travelogue that is a tribute to the roots music that first influenced him.

"I got my start in music listening to my dad's jazz and blues 78s when I was eight years old," says Lee, who continues to follow his inspirations. "It's about the freedom to make music of my own choice without worrying about what other people thought or expected," he writes in the album's liner notes. more on this story



Slayer's Kerry King Wrote New Songs On Recent Tour
(Classic Rock) Slayer guitarist Kerry King managed to write some material during the band's recent European tour because he doesn't tend to leave his hotels so often during visits to the old world.

He explains: "I don't go out that often – there are still a number of currencies over there and you get dicked every time you change money. If I don't have any local money I'll probably sit in my room."

King says one new song is entitled Chasing Death, adding: "As you get older your friends start dropping; you're having that new sensation. My guitar tech died earlier this year and he was just 35. Those are the touch ones. It's talking about stuff like that. Chasing Death isn't directly related to any of my friends dying. It's like people who drink too much – they don't help themselves out so they're chasing death." More rock news.



Lynyrd Skynyrd Ready For New Album and Tour
(Gibson) Lynyrd Skynyrd release a new album, Last of a Dyin' Breed, on August 21. It is the band's first studio album since 2009's God & Guns. The band also plans to play three dates in the U.K. in November.

Gary Rossington is now the only original Skynyrd member, but he has told Michigan Live: "I wouldn't say it's a responsibility, at least not in a heavy way. We all had a dream, and the dream came true. Then, it was stripped away so quickly. People still love the music, and we love doing it. That's really what's it's all about – playing music that makes people happy and hearing stories from them."

Of Last of a Dyin' Breed Rossington says: "It's just good Southern rock 'n' roll. It's within the tradition and style of the band."

New to the band is ex-Black Crowes bassist Johnny Colt. When asked about receiving a phone call from Rickey Medlocke to join the band, Colt said, "What else do you say to Medlocke, Rossington and Van Zant? We're talking Southern rock royalty. We're talking Lynyrd Skynyrd. The only thing out of my mouth was, when and where?" more on this story





Van Halen Confirm Tour Dates
(hennemusic) Van Halen have officially confirmed three concerts in Japan this November as part of their "A Different Kind Of Truth".

After suggesting that they'll be playing shows in Japan this fall, the band had yet to actually announce or officially confirm anything to date - until today.

Van Halen have announced two concerts in Osaka (November 20 & 22) and a show in Tokyo on November 27. more on this story



My Darkest Days Added To Dirt Fest
(Banana 101.5) My Darkest Days will be performing on the main stage at Dirt Fest 2012 which will take place on August 11th at the Birch Run Expo Center.

The Canadian rockers will be playing songs from their recent release 'Sick and Twisted Affair' and their major label debut album.

MDD will join Dirt Fest 2012 headliners Clutch as well as Chiodos, Falling in Reverse, In This Moment, Royal Bliss, Dead Sara and more on August 11th at the Birch Run Expo Center. more on this story



The Acacia Strain Plan Rocktober Album Release
Rise Records have set an October 9th release date for The Acacia Strain's new album, "Death Is The Only Mortal".

When it came time to pick a producer for the effort, the band didn't have to look too far, tapping guitarist Daniel Laskiewicz (DL) for the task.

The announcement was short on other details but did say that the band have been in the studio writing and recording for the past couple of months, right up until they had to leave for tour. more on this story



Black Tusk Plan Headline Tour
Black Tusk will be hitting the road this fall for a string of North American headlining dates in support of their latest release Set The Dial.

The run kicks off October 13th in Johnson City, TN and is scheduled to wrap up October 24th in Portland, Oregon.

Black Tusk, are in the midst of their first ever European headline tour. The run will wrap up this week with a festival appearance in Tonsberg, Norway with an appearance at Slottsfjell Fest. more on this story



B Sides


Backstage With Aerosmith Guitarist
(hennemusic) Aerosmith are playing two shows in their hometown of Boston this week as part of the band's Global Warming summer tour.

The group have already completed about a half-dozen shows on the trek, on which they are joined by Cheap Trick.

Aerosmith guitarist Brad Whitford is featured in a new video shot at the TD Garden on Tuesday, prior to the band's first show in the city. "I can't remember the last time we were here," says Whitford. "It's great to be back; this home plate in Boston. Forty-something years ago we hit a home run out of the park here – and everywhere else in the world." more on this story



Robert Fleischman Talks Vinnie Vincent Experiences
The Decibel Geek podcast interviewed original Vinnie Vincent Invasion vocalist Robert Fleischman for the 3rd installment on their special series about the former KISS guitarist. They sent over these details

Known for his vocals on the 1986 self-titled Vinnie Vincent Invasion debut album, Fleischman never appeared outside of a few photographs as a member of the band due to stalled contract negotiations and the addition of Mark Slaughter. Slaughter would go on to appear in the video for lead single 'Boyz are Gonna Rock' while lip-synching to Fleischman's studio tracks. This video also resulted in a lawsuit. Fleischman joins Decibel Geek hosts Chris Czynszak and Aaron Camaro for a discussion detailing his time working with Vinnie Vincent; three different occasions including the Invasion's debut album.

Also of note in this interview is Fleischman's recollections of Vinnie Vincent before he became Ace Frehley's replacement in KISS as they worked on some demos together which later became the first Invasion album.

This conversation details the behind the scenes process and turmoil that went into making 1986's Vinnie Vincent Invasion album including Fleischman's claims of unethical behavior by band members and constant tension between band members, managers, and record executives.

Also included in this conversation are Fleischman's memories of working with the former KISS guitarist after the breakup of the Invasion and his take on what happened to cause a record deal to fall through in 1990 and why he decided to walk away from a working relationship with Vincent

STYX RAISE THE CURTAIN ON THE GRAND ILLUSION AT 35:

Exclusive interviews with Tommy Shaw, James 'JY' Young, Lawrence Gowan and former member, co-founder Dennis DeYoung.

Dallas, TX - JULY 17, 2012. North American syndicated Rock radio show InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands sails away this week with Styx for the 35th anniversary of their breakthrough album The Grand Illusion. It took 7 albums in 7 years, but on 7/7/77 Styx would shatter any perception of Midwest mediocrity with the release of The Grand Illusion, an album questioning life's illusion versus its reality. Surprisingly timely today, the Top 10-selling Grand Illusion album produced two massive hit singles, “Come Sail Away” and “Fooling Yourself”, and began what would result in four straight platinum-plus selling albums. In 1999 Lawrence Gowan replaced cofounding member Dennis DeYoung on keyboard and vocals.
Currently on tour now through November, Lawrence shares with program host Redbeard his thoughts on the power of the Styx vocal assault.
“The toughest thing for me coming into Styx, and the thing I have to be most cognizant of, is being a part of that three voice, three headed monster. The power of those three voices together are one of the most distinctive things about the sound of Styx. And being able to put myself into that block harmony with JY and Tommy has been the thing I'm most aware of. I think that's just one of our strengths.”

The Styx The Grand Illusion/ InTheStudio program will air on radio this weekend on over 50 radio stations across North America. To stream this interview online, visit: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/styxthe-grand-illusion-35th-anniversary/