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Friday, June 4, 2010

Rock News for Friday 4th June, 2010

Extreme’s 'Take Us Alive' Concert Premieres on the HDNet Concert Series June 6th at 8:30 PM EST.
THE FULL VERSION OF THIS CONCERT WITH BONUS VIDEOS ARE AVAILABLE NOW ON DVD
HOLLYWOOD, CA (June 3, 2010) - Multi-platinum band EXTREME’s newly released live concert DVD 'Take Us Alive,' will premiere on the HDNet Concert Series, June 6th at 8:30 PM ET.

The band performed and recorded this "in your face" live concert in their hometown of Boston at the House of Blues. This is EXTREME’s first live DVD/CD showcasing their flawless performance of all their biggest hits, including "Hole Hearted," "Get the Funk Out," and the number one hit "More than Words," as well as songs from all their records.

HDNet is your exclusive, high definition home for popular, critically acclaimed original programming and will be broadcasting a tailored version of EXTREME's 'Take Us Alive' concert starting in June. If you miss the first airing, the concert will repeat that night as well as on June 13th at 5:50 PM ET followed by a regular rotation so check the listings.

HDNet Take Us Alive trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfPt4eYcVGk

The HDNet networks are available in the U.S. and Canada via:
* DIRECTV
* DISH Network
* Charter Communications
* Comcast
* Insight Communications
* Mediacom Communications
* NCTC Affiliated cable systems
* Verizon Fios
* Bell Express Vu
* Star Choice
* Shaw
* Cogeco
About EXTREME:
To date, the Grammy-nominated EXTREME have released five albums, plus a greatest hits set—selling over 10 million records worldwide. They also achieved a #1 hit single, “More Than Words”—from their 1990 multi-platinum album Extreme II: Pornograffitti—on the Billboard Hot 100, which they followed with the Top Five “Hole Hearted.” Although these two acoustic hits brought the band great mainstream success, the band’s trademark sound has always been more a mix of hard rock funk—fueled by guitar virtuoso Nuno Bettencourt’s signature style, Gary Cherone’s resonant vocals and socially conscious lyrics, Pat Badger’s rock solid bass, and the hard hitting Kevin Figueiredo on drums.
Weblinks:

Y&T Newsletter time!
Thanks to all who attended the Facemelter CD release concert for another sold out Y&T show at the Fillmore. The band appreciates the love and support you all showed for the new material. The band was thrilled to have their buddy Don Dokken open the show, and what a great job he did.
Y&T also included a fitting tribute to Ronnie James Dio.
You can see a video clip of Y&T's tribute to Dio on the Y&T multimedia page.

FACEMELTER HITS THE STREETS
Y&T's new album "Facemelter" is receiving rave reviews from the European & American media. The first week of its release, Facemelter entered the Sweden metal charts at #3, the Swedish album charts at #21, #40 in Germany, #67 in the Netherlands. You can see the track listing and hear a preview of the songs on the Y&T web site. Facemelter was released May 21st on Frontiers Records, and on Meanstreak Music Co in the US.
The Japanese release is June 23 on King Records. The US version is available from our web store.

FACEMELTER SWAG
Y&T's new Facemelter shirt is so hot that we've already sold out!!! Place your order now as the next batch will be available to ship mid-June.

The new shirts sport the Facemelter cover art (created by John Taylor Dismukes) on the front and tour dates on the back. New shirts for the ladies are also available with the gold Y&T logo and the Facemelter title on the front. Visit our web store to see all the new items and hear a preview of the album.

Y&T SHOWS
Details for each of the shows below are on the TOUR DATES page of the web site.

2010 - Stay tuned...more 2010 shows to come!

USA
July 2010
July 16 ~ Portland, OR - Peter's Room @ Roseland Theater
July 17 ~ Seattle, WA - Studio Seven
July 18 ~ Spokane, WA - Knitting Factory (all ages)
July 21 ~ Dacono, CO - The Roadhouse
July 22 ~ Colorado Springs, CO - SODO
July 24 ~ Wichita, KS - Midwest Rock Fest (all ages)
July 29 ~ Middleton, WI - Scatz Nightclub
July 30 ~ S Barrington, IL - Penny Road Pub
July 31 ~ Midlothian, IL - Papa T's
Aug. 2010
August 1 ~ Cleveland, OH - Agora Ballroom
August 4 ~ Pittsburgh, PA - Hard Rock Cafe
August 5 ~ Allentown, PA - Sterling Rock Room (all ages)
August 6 ~ Poughkeepsie, NY - The Chance Theatre (16 & over)
August 7 ~ New York, NY - BB King Blues Club (all ages)
August 8 ~ Springfield, VA - Jaxx
August 11 ~ Fort Worth, TX - Rock Dogs
August 12 ~ Corpus Christi, TX - Zeros Hardrock Club
August 13 ~ Houston, TX - Warehouse Live
August 14 ~ San Antonio, TX - Backstage Live (all ages)
August 15 ~ El Paso, TX - Zen-Meister Bar
August 19 ~ San Jose, CA - Music in the Park (all ages)
August 20 ~ Reno, NV - New Oasis (all ages show)
August 21 ~ Sacramento, CA - The Crest Theater (all ages)
August 26 ~ Hollywood, CA - Key Club
August 27 ~ Tempe, AZ - Club Red
August 28 ~ Las Vegas, NV - Feelgoods

Nov. 2010
November 19 ~ Petaluma, CA - Mystic Theatre
November 20 ~ Petaluma, CA - Mystic Theatre
Europe
June 2010
June 10 ~ Solvesborg, Sweden - Sweden Rock Festival
June 12 ~ Donington, UK - Download Festival
June 13 ~ Taino (VA), Italy - Festa della Birra (free show)
June 15 ~ Koln, Germany - Underground Cologne
June 16 ~ Zwolle, Netherlands - Hedon Podium
June 17 ~ Dordrecht, Netherlands - Bibelot
June 19 ~ Clisson, France - Hellfest

Sept. 2010
September 27 ~ Belfast, N Ireland - Spring & Airbrake
September 28 ~ Dublin, Ireland - The Village
September 30 ~ Cardiff, Wales, UK - Millennium Music Hall + special guest Tigertailz
Oct. 2010
October 1 ~ Manchester, UK - Manchester Academy
October 2 ~ Bradford, UK - Bradford Rio's
October 7 ~ Glasgow, Scotland, UK - O2 Academy Glasgow
October 8 ~ Newcastle, UK - O2 Academy Newcastle
October 9 ~ Nottingham, UK - Rock City
October 12 ~ Ipswich, UK - Corn Exchange
October 14 ~ Southampton, UK - The Brook
October 15 ~ Birmingham, UK - O2 Academy Birmingham
October 16 ~ London, UK - O2 Academy Islington
October 20 ~ Paris, France - Le Trabendo
October 22 ~ Haarlem, Netherlands - Patronaat
October 23 ~ Uden, Netherlands - De Pul
October 25 ~ Verviers, Belgium - Spirit of 66
October 26 ~ Bruchsal, Germany - Fabrik
October 28 ~ Prague, Czech Republic - Exit Chmelnice Music Hall
October 29 ~ Aschaffenburg, Germany - Colos-Saal
October 30 ~ Isernhagen, Germany - Blues Garage
Nov. 2010
November 2 ~ Hamburg, Germany - Ballroom Hamburg
November 5 ~ Zaragoza, Spain - Sala Devizio
November 6 ~ Valencia, Spain - Durango Club
November 7 ~ Madrid, Spain - Sala Heineken + special guest Lynch Mob
*Schedule subject to change. Be sure to verify with each venue.*
Check the web site TOUR DATES page for the most up-to-date concert information.
Thanks for your support!

Black Country Communion, yes, really and the album should be out in September!

Yes, I know I already plugged this a week ago, but it really looks like it's on and sounds promising!

Black Country Communion is a devastating head-on collision between American and British rock influences—a true supergroup that delivers a titanic rock experience greater than the sum of its supremely talented parts.

The seed for Black Country Communion was planted when legendary frontman and bass guitarist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Hughes / Thrall, Trapeze) and master blues-rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa combined forces on stage in Los Angeles in November 2009 for an explosive performance at Guitar Center’s King of the Blues event.

The brainchild of producer Kevin Shirley (Black Crowes, Aerosmith, Journey, Led Zeppelin), the band added to its rock lineage with powerhouse drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin, UFO, Foreigner) and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theatre, Billy Idol, Alice Cooper).
Named after the industrial area in Britain where both Hughes and Bonham were born and raised, Black Country Communion began rehearsing and recording tracks written by both Bonamassa and Hughes at Shangri-La Studios in early 2010.
Their new Album, which has yet to be named, will debut in September 2010.


Thursday, June 3, 2010

Michael Schenker - Live in Donington DVD review

Michael Schenker – Doctor, Doctor – Live in Donington - DVD review
(Released through Rockline records, licensed by SPV GmbH through MVD) March 2010.

OK, this is a funny one, where you have to kind of wonder just who had the gall to put this one out there?!
The DVD release itself contains just 5 songs with a total running time of just 34 minutes, yes, that’s right.

It’s a really weird one too as it’s titled ‘Michael Schenker – Live in Donington’ and the footage comes from the 2001 Rock and Blues festival at Donington that year, where conflicting reports indicate that UFO and Uli Jon Roth (Ex-Scorpions) were both playing on the Sunday that year. Other sources say this was during Uli Jon Roth’s set, where the ex-UFO members joined in and another says this was a special Michael Schenker all star line up. So make of it what you will!

Searching for accurate information through the web on this is a nightmare and MVD who distribute this release give very little in detail with this release.
Now don’t get me wrong, I’ve always loved Schenker’s playing and have to say, he’s probably my favourite guitarist, I just find that this release itself, is a little disappointing overall and not because of the content, but more so due to the lack of it!

This was from a time when UFO’s line up was from somewhere between their ‘Covenant’ and ‘Sharks’ CD releases, when Schenker was still with the band.

I can tell you that Uli Jon Roth released a ‘full’ concert video from the show, that includes these tracks and apparently Michael Schenker was due to do the same, based on a ‘Blabbermouth’ press release:
The DVD cover is a little misleading too, as the front cover features a more recent shot of Schenker, looking in reasonable shape and playing one of the ‘Schenker Brothers’ limited edition Dean Flying V’s.
The back cover shows less flattering pictures of Schenker, looking very rough as he indeed looks in the DVD footage.

The opening song is ‘Doctor, Doctor,’ possibly UFO’s best known track among general rock fans and the line up appears to be an all star cast of Phil Mogg (Vocals), Schenker (Guitars), Pete Way on bass (UFO), Don Airey on keyboards (Rainbow, Ozzy, Deep Purple – To name just three!), Uli Jon Roth (Guitars) and Clive Bunker on drums (Ex-Jethro Tull). There’s also another guitarist who I’m not sure on the guys identity. Some indication is that it may be Barry Sparks who has played bass with both Schenker and UFO line ups on tour.
It’s certainly ‘interesting’ to see Schenker play alongside the guy who replaced him in the Scorpions and how they play off one another. Similar styles at times, at other moments Uli goes into his Space rock mode!

The UFO catalogue continues after a what seemed to be a little uncertain start with ‘Let It Roll’ and Pete Way is in fine form leaping around all over the stage. Phil Mogg standing his ground centre stage.

‘Midnight Train’ from UFO’s ‘Covenant’ release is next and to be honest I think Uli does well to stay the distance over all these songs. It’s clear Phil Mogg is in his element, having all these guys backing him up.

12 Minutes of possibly UFO’s fans ‘favourite track, ‘Rock Bottom’ is next where Schenker usually comes into his own and drifts away, but it’s great to see how almost playful – For want of a better word ... – the guy is, playing off Uli Jon Roth.
It’s certainly a different version for UFO fans who do their utmost to try and track down and collect every single version of every track the band and linked line ups have ever released / performed.

Then comes the funny bit to the DVD that really makes no sense at all!
If this is really a Michael Schenker release, then why does he and the other UFO guys – Mogg and Way – leave the stage at this point, when Cream bassist / vocalist Jack Bruce steps out to join Roth, Airey and Bunker to jam White Room.
Most strange!
It’s again, an interesting version where Bruce at times shakes his head, as if to say, ‘No, not yet,’ or ‘No, not like that!’ Funny …!

So that’s it, no bonus features at all … That is seriously it. Would I recommend it?
Hmm, I’d really have liked to have owned a full set from the show to be honest and if those DVD’s exist, I’d probably urge you to track those down.
In reality, if you see this selling for full price I’d say leave it to be honest, if you see it under $10 or say £5 or £6, if you’re a fan and can’t find the other released DVD’s, go for it.

Overall rating: 3 out of 5. – It’s OK.

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Rock News update Wednesday 2nd June, 2010

John Mayer cancels shows due to illness

'E news Online' posted this news:
John Mayer is waiting on his health to change before going back onstage.

The garrulous pop star has pulled the plug on the remainder of his shows in Europe and will be returning to the U.S. to recover from an undisclosed illness which caused him to cancel last night's concert in Copenhagen.

His website posted this notice:
After a sold-out performance in Copenhagen, John Mayer was forced to cancel his second show there on 5/31 due to illness. Regrettably, the illness has caused his remaining European shows scheduled through this week to be canceled as well (Amsterdam, Madrid and Manchester). Ticket holders should apply for refund from point of purchase. Mayer is returning home to the States and a full recovery is expected under a doctor’s supervision.

Here's those other updates folks!

How would you like your band to open for Kiss?


Attention unsigned bands,

Guitar Center and KISS have teamed up to give 22 unsigned bands across the country the ultimate career-altering opportunity – the chance to open for rock and roll icons KISS. One band from each of more than twenty-two markets across the United States will be chosen to play at each KISS show. At the conclusion of the tour, KISS will choose the best of the twenty-two bands to receive the grand prize, which includes a $10,000 Guitar Center shopping spree. Now through September 1st, 2010, bands across the country are invited to register at http://www.gconstage.com/ for their chance to be selected.
Register Now »
http://eventful.com/competitions/kiss2010/register?rel=email&source=4TP0F1&indiv_id=7316826

Uriah Heep North American Tour adds another tour date

Uriah Heep due to play their first US tour in 8 years, have added 1 more date to the current list of just 10 dates (Including the new one.).
The latest date to be added, will be at the Beverley Arts Center, in Chicago, IL, on Thursday July 1st.
This tour will be in support of both the 'Wake the Sleeper' album released in 2008 and the latest re-recorded 'Celebration - 40 years of Uriah Heep.'
Since the tour starts in just over 2 weeks, I would next expect any additional dates to be added, but who knows?

The full US tour dates are as follows:
June 2010
June 18th Chattanooga TN Riverbend Festival - Bud Light Stage TN

June 19th Annapolis, MD Rams Head On Stage MD
June 20th Wilkes-Barre, PA Kirby Center for the Arts PA
June 21st Sellersville, PA Sellersville Theater 1894 PA - SOLD OUT
June 22nd New York NY B.B. King Blues Club NY
June 24th St. Charles MO Ameristar Casino St. Charles MO
June 25th Kansas City MO Ameristar Casino & Hotel Kansas City MO
June 26th Milwaukee Summerfest Tickets
July 2010
July 1st Illinois Beverly Arts Center IL
July 2nd Algona IA Freedom Park IA
http://www.uriah-heep.com/newa/

Styx updated news - Details of forthcoming 'Regeneration - Volume 1' Announced


**Updated with corrected link to full article.**
STYX is putting the finishing touches on the soon-to-be-released "Regeneration, Volume 1". Produced by the band and their long-time studio/live sound engineer Gary Loizzo, "Regeneration, Volume 1" contains six re-recorded versions of STYX classics, and one brand new song, "Difference In the World" (which is also available as a free MP3 download via http://www.styxworld.com/).
The six classic tracks are "Grand Illusion," "Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)," "Lorelei," "Sing for the Day," "Crystal Ball" and "Come Sail Away."

In a recent interview with Doug Fox of the Daily Herald in Salt Lake City, UT, James "JY" Young said "We're in the ultimate, final-polishing stages of it."
Check out that interview here:
http://heraldextra.com/entertainment/music/article_a5362a64-9e03-51a9-90e0-d6b84b46dd81.html

In addition to the CD, the band also plans to make "Regeneration, Volume 1" available on vinyl.
Additional information will be passed along as it becomes available.
Keep an eye out for a sneak-peek of the album cover coming soon.
http://www.styxworld.com/


Rik Emmett listed on Gibson’s Readers Poll – Top 25 Guitarists


Rik Emmett (Triumph) just gave a plug to the announcement from the http://www.gibson.com/ website on the Top 50 rated guitarists.
Rik says, 'Gibson recently revealed the Top 50 Guitarists and Readers Poll Results, and yours truly made the cut!'
http://www.rikemmett.com/
Rik featured on the Gibson.com poll, coming 7th out of their Top 25 Guitarists.
Even if you're not a Rik Emmett fan - Although why not is beyond me ... ;-) - this is interesting to check out.
http://www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/gibson-reveals-0528/


FAST-RISING ROCK BAND, HEAVEN BELOW, HIT HARD

ON SELF-TITLED RELEASE

Displaying stellar vocals, amazing guitar tones and backed by powerhouse songs, the rock band Heaven Below brings an exciting and fresh sound to the world of music - as evidenced throughout their new, self-titled release. Fronted by Patrick Kennison - formerly of The Union Underground - and supported by members Jesse Billson on guitar, John Younger on bass, and Chad Clark on drums, Heaven Below has forged a tour de force of sonic power and songwriting - that is poised to lead the way for new rock music.

“Our sound encompasses the best parts of our influences,” explains Kennison. “We love the vocal harmonies of classic bands like Alice in Chains, or the angst of legends like Trent Reznor, but our riffs and song ideas tend to be spawn from guitar driven bands like Metallica, or even Rage Against the Machine. Once we put the vocals on, we immediately feel that our music takes on it's own sound.” And on their self-titled release, Heaven Below shows that despite being such a young band, they can easily keep pace with the top dogs of the current rock scene - especially on such standout tracks as “When Daylight Dies,” which was produced by Grammy-award winning/multi-platinum artist Ben Moody of Evanescence.

Heaven Below recently completed their inaugural set of live dates - which saw the group spread the word even further throughout the hard rock/metal community. As Kennison points out, “We pride ourselves on delivering a live show thats dangerous and emotionally vulnerable. Playing on the Sunset Strip has not only strengthened us, but has proved that great songs are only a portion of putting on a great live show. Live, we set out to engage the audience with a video presentation that inter-plays our lyrics and song concepts through our performance. In this day and age we believe the audience deserves a full blown cathartic experience, bar none.”

And their hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed, as evidenced by quite a few impressive accolades, such as Marissa Brown from Artist Direct, who describes HB as “Most brilliantly bludgeoning performance,” and also Robert Foster from Metal Edge, who gushes, “Every track explodes with expression.” And as added by Kennison, “Our future plans are to reach an audience that strives for something fresh and new. If building a touring fan base is one of the requirements, we're primed and ready.” As evidenced with by the sonic wallop of their self-titled release, the buzz and praise thrust upon Heaven Below is certainly deserved, as a most promising road lies ahead.

For more information, visit:
http://www.heavenbelow.net/
www.myspace.com/heavenbelowmusic
http://www.heavenbelow.com/epk/

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Rock News for Tuesday 1st June, 2010

Wow! is it June already? 6 months into the year, incredible, where does the time go?!
Well, I apologize for some slow service here of late, but on the news front, beside the sad news of people passing away, there's really been so little band / artist news of late there's really been little to plug, except of course for the many new tour dates that keep popping up!
I guess it's kind of good in a sense, because it means that the artists out there that we all love / enjoy, are sticking together to provide us some great summer shows or planning some Autumn / Fall tour dates.
Very good news for us live music lovers! :)
So, enjoy the summer, enjoy the live music that summer brings to us all and beyond that, keep on rockin'!

Live Nation cuts service fees ...

... well, that is for the summer months anyway, but ONLY if you purchase your tickets in June.
Yes, those very kind people - Cough, cough! - at Live Nation are offering from the 1st June (Yes, today!)
Here's a direct link to their site, specifically plugging the shows / bands / artists, that are covered right now by this offer: http://promo-img.livenation.com/lnus/noservicefeetickets/

Billboard actually did a piece on it today and posted some of the discussion they had with Live Nation's CEO of their Concert Division, Jason Garner. To read more on that go here:

Shame that they can't see fit to end it permanently. Ah well ... We can live in hope.

Carlos Santana doing a rock covers album?!

Well, strange as it may seem to many apparently Carlos Santana plans to cover AC/DC's Back in Black, Led Zeppelin's Whole Lotta Love and Jimi Hendrix' Little Wing ... With a little help from some friends named as one collaborator ...
All this of course at this time, appears to be just speculation from UK magazine Classic Rock's website here:

They even say, for more details go to the Santana website - http://www.santana.com/ - which currently says nothing on the matter? Hmmm
I guess keep watch the Santana site and maybe the man will surprise us all. I for one would be extremely interested in checking out such a release!

Tommy Shaw says, People don't seem to have conversations anymore ...

Perhaps more to the point, Styx main man Tommy Shaw doesn't think people are prepared to listen these days, at least they seem to give the impression they do, but are they really listening?
It's a very valid point in today's hustle and bustle of daily life, I'm sure a point many of us would sadly have to agree with ... 
As Aerosmith so rightly pointed out in their tune, 'Livin' On The Edge,' - 'There's something wrong with the world today, I don't what it is ...'  Very true!

Anyway, Tommy Shaw has posted a blog piece at http://www.thecomet.com/ which can be read in detail here:

A snippet from that reads as follows:
'So many of my friends are increasingly busy, with so many things on their minds, their inner multi-tasker is buzzing like a crowded office space with cubicles, each one filled with squirrels and hamsters sprinting along these circular belts, keeping the machinery running. There was a time when I would take it personally that they were not listening when I would respond, but it has over time dawned on me--maybe they just can't hear over the noise in their own heads.'

'When I talk to fans in airports, I think I make some of them nervous. They might have a personal STYX story they want to tell me, which I’m always willing to listen to, so I could say “You know you forgot to wear pants today?” and they wouldn’t hear it. I don’t say that because I usually don’t think of it until later. I have too many other things on my mind.'

He later adds:
'So, if you're not watching sports (that's worth talking about!), why not turn the television off, turn off your cell phone (at least put it on vibrate), go see your favorite band (STYX, Foreigner and Kansas perhaps), a new comedian or even a good movie and then discuss amongst yourselves!'

'While you're doing that, ask yourself, "Am I the one doing all the talking? Did I hear anything my friend was trying to tell me or was I just waiting for a pause so I could keep talking?"
I'll try it too. Maybe I'm not listening either!'
Very valid points Tommy and I hope to catch the Styx show with Foreigner and Kansas!
For more details on that go to:
or

Survivor ... Big news on the way?

Survivor, who these days are led by Frankie Sullivan and fronted by Robin McAuley (Ex-Grand Prix, M.S.G. and Far Corporation), have recently (February / March 2010) mentioned that they have a new album on the way but since then have gone quiet and now their website - http://www.survivormusic.com/ - appears to be down for a refresh, could be a sign of the new album title announcement and more! We can only hope.
Their MySpace page isn't much more help - www.myspace.com/survivorband - and the only pointer you can get, is to go to http://www.pollstar.com/ to search out the bands current tour dates, nice!
So, if you're looking to check that out directly, go here: http://www.pollstar.com/resultsArtist.aspx?ID=9482

More news on the Aerosmith North American Tour

As originally posted here last Sunday 30th May, Aerosmith have announced a North American Tour kicking off in July.
The latest news is that Sammy Hagar and the Wabo's will open for 11 of these shows, how cool!
Here's the latest press release posted at their site late yesterday:

AEROSMITH AMERICA’S GREATEST ROCK AND ROLL BAND ANNOUNCES ‘COCKED, LOCKED, READY TO ROCK’ US SUMMER TOUR

18 Spectacular Shows Beginning on July 23rd in Oakland, California
Band Just Conquered South America, To Europe Next and Now, The US This Summer

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA (June 1, 2010) - Following seven triumphant South American ‘Cocked, Locked, Ready To Rock Tour’ dates (the final one playing this evening in Costa Rica, the largest concert in that country’s history) and eleven upcoming European dates, America’s Number One rock and roll band will be more than warmed up and ready to arrive in the US in what will surely be THE concert event of the summer.
Live Nation, the national tour promoter for Aerosmith confirmed today that The Bad Boys of Boston are hitting the road for an 18 city US tour this summer with the COCKED, LOCKED, READY TO ROCK Tour that begins on July 23rd in Oakland, California. Tickets go on sale in select markets beginning Friday, June 4 at LiveNation.com. Tour itinerary follows this release.

The recently announced hometown Fenway Park date scheduled for August 14th sold out in a record breaking 23 minutes. Aerosmith will be joined at the Fenway show by The J.Geils Band.

Steven Tyler said, “I thought it was time to get my MOJO back, by rockin South America and Europe with a little HOME RUN at Boston's Fenway Park thrown in and then off to the rest of America to do what we do best! We’re gonna rock you into the middle of next week!”

'This is a perfect time for us to tour North America as we are just completing a very successful tour of South America. We are looking forward to our European tour next month and then bringing our show back to our home soil. We are running on all cylinders and are "Cocked Locked and ready to Rock”!' commented Joe Perry.

"We're having a blast tearing up South America. I can't stop thinking about how great it's going to feel bringing it home this summer" said Tom Hamilton.

"The band's tighter than ever, America we're coming to rock your World" said Joey Kramer.

Sammy Hagar and the Wabos will open eleven of the sixteen announced shows. Support in other markets will be announced shortly.

Aerosmith, will be celebrating their 40th anniversary as America’s most enduring and thrilling band in rock history. They are Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees, recipients of countless awards including 4 Grammy’s, 8 American Music Awards, 6 Billboard Awards, 12 MTV Video Music Awards. They have sold over 150 million albums, earned scores of multi platinum albums and maintain a large army of millions of fans.

Aerosmith continues to perform electrifying sold-out concerts around the world and remain one of the most beloved bands in the world.

Date City, State Venue Presale Date
July 2010
Fri. July 23 Oakland, CA Oracle Arena* Wed. June 2, 1pm EDT
Mon. July 26 Paso Robles, CA California Mid-State Fair TBD
Thu. July 29 Irvine, CA Verizon Wireless Amphitheater TBD
Sat. July 31 Las Vegas, NV MGM Grand Garden Arena* Wed. June 2, 1pm EDT
Aug. 2010
Tue. Aug 3 Dallas, TX Superpages.com Amphitheatre TBD
Thu. Aug 5 Woodlands, TX Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion* TBD
Sat. Aug 7 Tampa, FL Ford Amphitheatre TBD
Mon. Aug 9 Fort Lauderdale, FL BankAtlantic Center* TBD
Thu. Aug 12 Wantagh, NY Nikon at Jones Beach Theater* TBD
Sat. Aug 14 Boston, MA Fenway Park Buy Party Pass
Tue. Aug 17 Toronto, ONT Air Canada Centre* Wed. June 2, 10am EDT
Thu. Aug 19 Omaha, NE Qwest Center* TBD
Sun. Aug 22 Tinley Park, IL First Midwest Bank Amphitheater TBD
Tue. Aug 24 Holmdel, NJ PNJ Bank Arts Center* TBD
Thu. Aug 26 Syracuse, NY New York State Fair Buy Tickets
Sat. Aug 28 Atlantic City, NJ Boardwalk Hall* Wed. June 2, 10am EDT
Tue. Aug 31 Detroit, MI The Palace at Auburn Hills* TBD
Sept. 2010
Thu. Sep 2 Cincinnati, OH Riverbend Music Center* TBD
Sat. Sep 4 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun Arena TBD

*Opening act is Sammy Hagar and the Wabos
VIP experience packages *(which may include opportunities to meet band members, backstage tours, early entry passes, premium seating and/or merchandise) are available through http://www.aeroforceone.com/
Fans without internet access can call 508-791-3807 in the US 9am - 5pm EST.

Monday, May 31, 2010

Rock News for Monday 31st May, 2010

May 30th Public Memorial for Ronnie James Dio

Wendy Dio relays her thanks:
'Today's Memorial Service was attended by Ronnie's family, close friends and fans from all over the world.
It was a celebration of the life and music of our Dear Ronnie and was hosted by "That Metal Show's" Eddie Trunk. It was a BEAUTIFUL day and thank you to everyone that came out!'


More on the event, from the Associated Press, posted over at Pollstar

Apparently more than 1,200 fans commemorated Dio inside Forest Lawn Memorial Park's Hall of Liberty. Hundreds more gathered in the scorching heat outside the auditorium to watch monitors of the proceedings, which featured performances from some of Dio's rocker friends, including Glenn Hughes of Deep Purple, Geoff Tate of Queensryche and Paul Shortino of Quiet Riot.

With chants of "Dio, Dio, Dio," headbangers, rock fans, friends and family were loud and proud Sunday as they paid tribute to the late metal legend, who died from stomach cancer May 16 at age 67.

"He touched all of us with his music and his message and his magic," said David Feinstein, Dio's cousin and Elf bandmate. "I know that Ronnie truly loved all of you. He had a great appreciation for your loyalty. I'm talking about all you out there, all the fans."

Several musician friends of Dio celebrated the rocker by performing tunes that featured Dio's signature howl.

Scott Warren of Heaven and Hell began the memorial with an arrangement of Dio's "This is Your Life" on piano. John Payne of Asia crooned Black Sabbath's "Heaven and Hell." Joey Belladonna of Anthrax wailed Rainbow's "Man On The Silver Mountain."

Dio's son, Dan Padavona, cautioned the memorial crowd to be screened regularly by a doctor and take care of themselves, something he said his father did not do.

"I beg you not to make the same mistake my dad made," said Padavona. "For dad, the show always had to go on. He ignored the warning signs for years, and all along the cancer was growing and mutating from something that was probably easily defeatable into a monster which even Dio couldn't slay."


Michael Schenker Group + Lynch Mob Tour Dates

It seems Michael Schenker and George Lynch have hooked up to offer a rather tasty tour package - For those whose way it comes! :( - as M.S.G. and Lynch Mob plan to hit the road together in North America in July and into August.
With both acts having released very good last albums, this should be a fun one to catch for sure.
These dates were posted at George Lynch's site:
July 2010
07/28/10 Lynch Mob in Pittsburgh, PA Altar Bar United States
With the Michael Schenker Group.
07/29/10 Lynch Mob in Sayerville, NJ Starland Ballroom United States
With the Michael Schenker Group.
07/30/10 Lynch Mob in Springfield, VA Jaxx United States
With the Michael Schenker Group.
07/31/10 Lynch Mob in New York, NY The Fillmore New York At Irving Plaza United States
With the Michael Schenker Group.
August 2010
08/01/10 Lynch Mob in Farmingdale, NY Crazy Donkey United States
With the Michael Schenker Group.
08/02/10 Lynch Mob in Binghampton, NY The Hideout United States
With the Michael Schenker Group.
08/04/10 Lynch Mob in Middleton, WI Scatz Nightclub United States
With the Michael Schenker Group.
08/06/10 Lynch Mob in Salt Lake City, UT Club Vegas United States
With the Michael Schenker Group.
08/07/10 Lynch Mob in Sparks, NV The New Oasis United States
 Lynch Mob live…(not part of the MSG tour)
08/08/10 Lynch Mob in Fresno, CA. Tower Theater United States
With the Michael Schenker Group.
08/11/10 Lynch Mob in Seattle, WA Studio Seven United States
With the Michael Schenker Group.
08/12/10 Lynch Mob in Portland, OR Dante’s United States
With the Michael Schenker Group.
08/13/10 Lynch Mob in Santa Rosa, CA The Last Day Saloon United States
With the Michael Schenker Group.

Toto still adding extra odd dates to 'that' European ONLY tour

Yes, still disappointed like many fans that Toto won't agree to get back together for good, although I do understand that this bunch of gigs was out of respect for Mike Pocaro, who is living with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). Prayers are with you Mike.
Still, it does seem a shame to stop it there guys?
Anyway, as I said in the headline, yes, the band continues to slip in an extra date here and there.
The dates will take in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany again(!), Denmark, Finland and Norway.
Those dates are as follows and will all take place in July 2010:

07 - Jul - 2010 Wednesday Neu-Isenburg Hugonottenhalle Germany
09 - Jul - 2010 Friday Clam Burg Clam Austria
10 - Jul - 2010 Saturday Wiesen Lovely Days Festival Austria
11 - Jul - 2010 Sunday Weert Bospop Festival Netherlands
13 - Jul - 2010 Tuesday Heerhugowaard (near Amsterdam) De Waerdse Tempel Netherlands
15 - Jul - 2010 Thursday Locarno Moon & Stars, Piazza Grande Switzerland
16 - Jul - 2010 Friday Singen Hohenentwiel Festival Germany
17 - Jul - 2010 Saturday 83671 Benediktbeuern Kloster Benediktbeuern Germany
18 - Jul - 2010 Sunday Berlin Zitadelle Germany
20 - Jul - 2010 Tuesday Copenhagen KB Hall Denmark
22 - Jul - 2010 Thursday Pori Pori Festival Finland
24 - Jul - 2010 Saturday Biri Biri Travbane Norway


"THE JOHN BONHAM STORY" FEATURING ALL THE MEMBERS OF LED ZEPPELIN PLUS PAUL RODGERS

"The John Bonham Story" on London's BBC Music 6 Radio, Monday June 3rd 3:00 pm GMT.
It features all the members of Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones plus Paul Rodgers, Bill Ward, Debbie Bonham and is presented by The Foo Fighters / Nirvana's Dave Grohl.


John 5 on Van Halen: “They are writing right now at 5150. Eddie is on fire.”

Friday, 28 May 2010 Shredding mastermind John 5 recently joined the Hard Rock Nights radio program to talk about his new solo record, 'The Art Of Malice,' and working with Rob Zombie, David Lee Roth, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Rob Halford, Lita Ford, etc.

John talks about working with David Lee Roth on his DLR Band CD at 1:59 into the interview. Then at 5:06 they ask him about Eddie (Van Halen)

Q: “Now Dave, of course, is back in Van Halen, last we heard…”
A: “Yes.”

Q: “Have you met Eddie? Have you gotten to sit down and talk with him any?”
A: “Oh yeah me and Eddie are good friends. He’s a great guy, you know, he’s doing great, playing great and looks great. He’s on fire right now. They’re writing right now, at Eddie’s place - at 5150 - and he is on fire right now.”

Hard Rock Nights is a weekly syndicated radio program broadcast on a number of rock and metal stations across the internet and the FM dial.
Go to Hard Rock Nights here: http://hardrocknights.wordpress.com/

Sunday, May 30, 2010

Rock News for Sunday 30th May, 2010

Diff'rent topic ....
Just wanted to share my thoughts over the sad loss this weekend of two more individuals, who had brought entertainment to peoples lives at one time or another, although not through the world of music.
Indeed, as much as many people despised these actors - For their own reasons ... - and yes, I mean despised as although these two individuals had their own 'personal issues' in their lives, Gary Coleman to me, had amused me back in the Diff'rent Strokes days and Dennis Hopper, well, what can you say?!
The guy was so off the wall sometimes, some of the times with no warning but that was him, so there you go.
Anyway, my thoughts go out to thier family members and close friends at this time.

Onto the music news then ...

Dio Memorial Shows on the way

Rumours are doing the rounds right now regarding the likelihood of two tribute shows for Ronnie James Dio.
To be honest, it's not at all surprising if you ask me, as it's clear from all the tributes and many guestbooks for the guy that can be found, that simply shows just how much of an impact the guy had on peoples lives.

A guitarist friend said to me the other day, 'They should do for Ronnie what they did for Freddie (Mercury)!'
I replied at the time by saying, 'Nice thought and I agree the guy deserves something, but I don't think it could pull anywhere near the number of people that the Queen tribute shows pulled.'
I'm actually beginning to think that believe it or not, I might eat my words on that! I hope that is the case, as Ronnie James Dio in my mind, was completely a class act.

Anyway, the biggest rumour is that the two shows will take place with one in London and one in L.A.
Classic Rock magazine had this story on it:

On a side note, it seems that Wendy Dio has helped set up the 'Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund,' with this info posted through the Dio website:

At the Public Memorial Service, this Sunday, there will be a donation center set up for the Ronnie James Dio "Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund." 100% of the money goes to the Fund!

For a $25.00 donation at the Memorial to the Fund, you will receive a special "Ronnie James Dio Stand Up And Shout" Memorial T-Shirt. We will only be able to accept your donations in the form of a check or money order made out to "The Ronnie James Dio Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund" or cash. We can't accept credit or debit cards at the Memorial

PLEASE NOTE THAT WE ARE NOT SELLING ANYTHING at the memorial. We are STRICTLY taking donations and this is just our way to say thank you for your donation.

We do plan on making this eventually available to fans around the world, but for now, it will only be on Sunday!
The Public Memorial is a celebration of the life and music of Ronnie James Dio and is open to all his friends and fans and starts at 2:00 PM on Sunday, May 30th!

To those of you that have already made donations, we can't THANK YOU enough! Here is some more information on where your generous donations to the "Ronnie James Dio Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund" go:

The “Stand Up And Shout” Cancer Fund was formed to bring awareness and education about cancer with the understanding that cancer screening and prevention is of vital importance in avoiding this deadly disease that robs families of their loved ones.

The philosophy stems from the notion that “Knowledge Equals Power.” Cancer screening allows people to effectively plan strategies to deal with the disease early on and affords a better chance to overcome the cancer.
The fund is committed to providing free cancer screening programs and testing to all people regardless of their ability to pay.

The fund will support community outreach programs and help provide the necessary equipment and personnel to test and screen people for cancer.
The fund also provides financial support to those individuals and families afflicted with cancer that cannot access treatment due to the overwhelming financial burden of medical treatments.

“You are the strongest chain, and not just some reflection” -Ronnie James Dio

Wendy Dio has asked that in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Ronnie James Dio "STAND UP AND SHOUT CANCER FUND."

Please make your checks or money orders payable to: The Ronnie James Dio "Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund" and send them to the Niji Entertainment Group, 12400 Ventura Blvd. #837, Studio City, CA 91604 USA.
You can also use your credit or debit card via PayPal. There is a direct link on the homepage of http://www.ronniejamesdio.com/

We all miss you Ronnie. 

Iron Maiden reminder ... Like you needed it!

The Iron Maiden newsletter sent out this week to fans included the following info:


Iron Maiden are back on the road in less than two weeks! Here's a quick round-up...

Sonisphere Day Tickets Now Available for Knebworth
If you want to catch Iron Maiden at their only UK show in 2010, day tickets for Sonisphere Knebworth are now on sale. Maiden headline Sunday 1st August and tickets are £65 from http://www.sonispherefestivals.com/ and the usual outlets. More info and the full lineup for Sonisphere at http://www.ironmaiden.com/index.php?categoryid=8&p2_articleid=1208

Maiden Transylvania
For the first time ever, Iron Maiden will be travelling to the historic region of Transylvania to play a concert. The show is on August 15th 2010 and you can find out more info at http://www.ironmaiden.com/index.php?categoryid=8&p2_articleid=1205

Bruce Air Valencia
There are still a few seats available on the Bruce Air trip to Valencia. Fly with Captain Dickinson to Maiden's final 2010 show as they round off the first leg of the Final Frontier World Tour in Spain on August 21st. See www.seegigs.co.uk/gig-bruce-air-valencia.php for full details

Iron Maiden on Rockline, Monday June 7th
Iron Maiden will be the featured guests on the nationally syndicated radio show Rockline with host Bob Coburn on Monday June 7 at 8:30pm PT / 11:30pm ET. For more information on how to listen to Rockline go to http://www.rocklineradio.com/

The Best Of IMTV
To get you psyched up for the Final Frontier World Tour, we've posted part one of 'The Best Of IMTV' -- relive 'Somewhere Back In Time' over three episodes and get ready for IMTV to return for fanclub members, bigger and better than ever before, in June. http://www.ironmaiden.com/

Tour Dates -- Final Frontier World Tour (first leg)
June 2010
June 09 - Dallas, TX - Superpages.com Center
June 11 - Houston, TX - Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
June 12 - San Antonio, TX - AT&T Center
June 14 - Denver, CO - Comfort Dental Amphitheatre
June 16 - Albuquerque, NM - The Pavilion
June 17 - Phoenix, AZ - Cricket Wireless Pavilion
June 19 - San Bernardino, CA - San Manuel Amphitheatre
June 20 - Concord, CA - Sleep Train Pavilion
June 22 - Auburn, WA - White River Amphitheatre
June 24 - Vancouver, BC - GM Place
June 26 - Edmonton, AB - Rexall Place
June 27 - Calgary, AB - Pengrowth Saddledome
June 29 - Saskatoon, SK - Credit Union Center
June 30 - Winnipeg, MB - MTS Center
July 2010
July 03 - Toronto, ON - Molson Amphitheatre
July 06 - Ottawa, ON - Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest
July 07 - Montreal, QC - Bell Centre
July 09 - Quebec City Summer Festival
July 11 - Holmdel, NJ - PNC
July 12 - New York, NY - Madison Square Garden
July 14 - Pittsburgh, PA - First Niagara Pavilion
July 15 - Cleveland, OH - Blossom Music Center
July 17 - Detroit, MI - DTE Energy Music Theatre
July 18 - Chicago, IL - First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre
July 20 - Washington D.C. - Jiffy Lube Live
July 30 - Ireland - Dublin O2
August 2010Aug 01 - UK - Knebworth Sonisphere Festival
Aug 05 - Germany - Wacken Festival
Aug 07 - Sweden - Stockholm Stora Skuggan Sonisphere Festival
Aug 08 - Finland - Helsinki Pori's Kirjurinluoto Sonisphere Festival
Aug 11 - Norway- Bergen Bergenhus Festning - Koengen
Aug 14 - Hungary - Sziget Festival
Aug 15 - Transylvania - Cluj Napoca - Polus Center
Aug 17 - Italy - Villa Manin, near Udine
Aug 19 -- 21 - Belgium - Pukkelpop Festival
Aug 21 - Spain - Valencia Auditorio Marina Sur

Jeff Beck to Celebrate Les Paul with Ace Frehley, Billy Gibbons, Zakk Wylde, and More

I found this posted at Ace Frehley's site that I thought I'd share ...

(Jeff Beck Photo Credit: Getty Images - Ace and Les Paul pic from: http://www.acefrehley.com/ace_news/) 

Jeff Beck will stage two intimate performances at New York's Iridium Jazz Club to honor the late, great Les Paul presented by Gibson Guitar and the Iridium. Titled "A Celebration of Les Paul," the shows will take place on June 8 and June 9 and will mix memorable Les Paul classics with rockabilly favorites. Guests scheduled to attend the invitation-only June 9th event include Ace Frehley, Billy Gibbons, Zakk Wylde, Paul Shaffer, Steve Miller, Meat Loaf, Warren Haynes, and Gibson Guitar Chariman/CEO Heny Juszkiewicz.


Aerosmith Announces US Tour Dates

I'm guessing more dates will be added but at this time Aerosmith have announced just 19 dates across North America have been announced.
Here's hoping Steven Tyler doesn't lose his bablance again!

Full tour dates so far announced are as follows:
Date City, State Venue Presale Date
July 2010
Fri. July 23 Oakland, CA Oracle Arena Wed. June 2, 1pm EDT
Mon. July 26 Paso Robles, CA California Mid-State Fair TBD
Thu. July 29 Irvine, CA Verizon Wireless Amphitheater TBD
Sat. July 31 Las Vegas, NV MGM Grand Garden Arena Wed. June 2, 1pm EDT
August 2010
Tue. Aug 3 Dallas, TX Superpages.com Amphitheatre TBD
Thu. Aug 5 Woodlands, TX Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion TBD
Sat. Aug 7 Tampa, FL Ford Amphitheatre TBD
Mon. Aug 9 Fort Lauderdale, FL BankAtlantic Center TBD
Thu. Aug 12 Wantagh, NY Nikon at Jones Beach Theater TBD
Sat. Aug 14 Boston, MA Fenway Park Buy Party Pass
Tue. Aug 17 Toronto, ONT Air Canada Centre Wed. June 2, 10am EDT
Thu. Aug 19 Omaha, NE Qwest Center TBD
Sun. Aug 22 Tinley Park, IL First Midwest Bank Amphitheater TBD
Tue. Aug 24 Holmdel, NJ PNJ Bank Arts Center TBD
Thu. Aug 26 Syracuse, NY New York State Fair Buy Tickets
Sat. Aug 28 Atlantic City, NJ Boardwalk Hall Wed. June 2, 10am EDT
Tue. Aug 31 Detroit, MI The Palace at Auburn Hills TBD
September 2010
Thu. Sep 2 Cincinnati, OH Riverbend Music Center TBD
Sat. Sep 4 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun Arena TBD

Rick Springfield 2010 Concert Cruise Announced

Rick Springfield Cruise
The time you have all been waiting for has finally come! We are pleased to announce all of our special guests for this year's Rick Springfield & Friends Cruise! Our special Musical Guest this year will be Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon! Kevin will be headlining a concert on board as well as participating in the singer-songwriter session with Rick! We are pleased to also welcome back Rick's very good friend, Doug Davidson, (Paul Williams) from the Young & The Restless as well as our host, Mark Goodman (MTV, Sirius/XM Radio)! And lastly, we are thrilled to be joined by Eric Martsolf (Brady Black) from the Days of Our Lives who will be joining us onboard this year as well! With this incredible line-up, the third annual Rick Springfield & Friends cruise is going to be the best one yet! There is still time to make your reservation, so sign up now! Looking forward to seeing you onboard!

3rd Annual Rick Springfield & Friends Cruise - November 15th - 20th, 2010 This Year's Special Guests are Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon, Doug Davidson (Paul Williams, Young & the Restless), Eric Martsolf (Brady Black, Days of our Lives) and our host, Mark Goodman (MTV, Sirius/XM Radio)

The itinerary for this year's cruise is Monday 11/15 - Miami, FL - Depart 4PM Tuesday 11/16 - Nassau, Bahamas Wednesday 11/17 - Half Moon Cay Thursday 11/18 - Grand Turk Friday 11/19 - Day at Sea Saturday 11/20 - Arrive Miami - 8AM Activities include:

Full Concerts with Rick Springfield & Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon
Intimate unplugged concert with Rick Springfield & Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon
Special Interview by Mark Goodman with Rick Springfield on his book, Late, Late at Night
Personal Q&A sessions with Rick Springfield, Doug Davidson (Paul Williams, Young & the Restless), Eric Martsolf (Brady Black, Days of our Lives) & Mark Goodman (MTV,Sirius/XM Radio)
Hosted by Mark Goodman (MTV, Sirius/XM Radio)
Photograph and Autograph opportunities with all special guests
Special events with all our special guests
Five nights' accommodations aboard Carnival's Destiny Cruise Ship
Special Gift Bag with Cruise Event Souvenirs
Cocktail Parties
Chances to enter onboard exclusive Rick Springfield Event Opportunities
Full schedule of activities including dancing, deck activities & more
Gourmet dining experiences
VIP Concierge at your service

Sell your soul for the cruise - Nice prices, ouch! - and find out more details here: