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Saturday, September 11, 2010

Europe - Last Look At Eden album review

Europe – Last Look At Eden Album review
Released through: Ear Music. Release date: 2009 (In Europe) – No official US release date yet.



I was very fortunate – in some respects - back in 1986 to have seen Europe when they played the old London Hammersmith Odeon. In some respects because at that time the band were extremely popular with …, how can I put it … Very young girls and the audience to a great extent that night reflected that and boy!
I think I could almost imagine how it was around the time the Beatles were popular with all the screaming!

That was ‘Final Countdown’ time though and here we are, almost 25 years on from then and I just wonder how many of those screaming young girls from that night would be interested in the hard rocking almost metal – Actually, it is at times! – sound of the band today? Not a lot I’m sure!
I've got to see Europe live on three tours, back in my UK days but that was all a while back.
I would've loved to have seen them when they reunited and toured in support of their excellent, yet much heavier and darker 'Start From The Dark' release.
What a great album! Get the live DVD from that tour if you get the chance. It's great!

Anyway, moving on ... You might be thinking from what I've already said that this is a metal album, it's not, but it certainly does a lot of hard rocking and in fact – IMHO – I have got to say that I think this is the most mature Europe album ever!
Yes, I know the band is older and yes, I know it’s their latest release, but …

I can really honestly say that there is not a period of the bands career that I do not enjoy and this album, almost comes across, it feels almost like there was no pressure to do this album like say back in the day. It’s kind of like they really took their time on this to get everything down EXACTLY how they wanted it.
It just sounds and feels so right and yes, there is absolutely no doubting that their influences shine through a lot here.
The album starts with a dark orchestrated piece ‘Prelude’ before merging into the edgy and still dark, extremely Zeppelin like title track ‘Last Look at Eden’ which simply just blows me away.
As dark and heavy a sound as the band has found, they can still master the big melodic choruses.
Joey Tempest’s voice is still distinctive, with perhaps a more edgy touch and John Norum is simply playing out of his skin with some classy leads breaks.

‘Gonna Get Ready’ at times could be the modern day ‘Cherokee’ with it’s almost Indian tribal type feel, that rocks like a good ‘un! Then in the mid section the band completely backs off, leaving Tempest to sing softly with some light acoustic guitar and then it builds right back up again to rock your socks off! Excellent stuff!

Steady rocker ‘Catch That Plane’ keep the same theme, as the previous two and with Mic Michaeli’s Hammond organ sound and some almost Blackmore at times guitar playing during the verses, gives the song a little of a Purple type effect, while when Norum hits his solo spot, he’s got that Lizzy sound that Brian Robertson always favoured, that is so often true of his work these days. It’s a great multi tempo track, up and down and slick!

The beautiful power ballad ‘New Love in Town’ is simply smooth. I just love the multi layering of sound here, where the piano chord sequence plays nicely off the acoustic guitar, to great effect and then Norum pulls off a beautiful solo that Michael Schenker would be proud of!
I also think the way the band has blended the Czech National Symphony Orchestra across the album works great.

‘The Beast’ next is as dark and heavy as it comes and actually kind of reminds me of the Steel Dragon band sound from the movie Rock Star, then in the middle the band throws a curve ball where they drop it down quiet again, before Joey starts to snarl back in, when he phrases ‘’
‘Cause you might as well light up a fuse!’ Then Norum just lets rip again with an awesome flurry of lead.

OK, I’m going to draw a comparison again with next track, ‘Mojito Girl’ which at times blends a Deep Purple sound with Lizzy vibe and then they go more laid back and it could be Bad Company.
It really does convey a great touch of style and class that the band has.

The band has the orchestra fairly prominent again on next mystically sounding track ‘No Stone Unturned’ which has an interesting beat to it. I’m sure Mic Michaeli and Norum had a great time playing their solos off each other here. Would love to hear this one live, in fact I would just love to see the band live again as I missed their last visit here almost five years ago. Last time I saw them live was the Prisoners in Paradise tour. Yes, it’s been a while!

In ‘Only Young Twice,’ the first verse lyrically is something that Phil Lynott could’ve written for sure.
‘I wanted to tell you, this boy is growing up. I wanted to show you, I’m not always down on my luck.’
Ha! You go guys! I love it and musically it’s a great blend again of light and dark throughout. Another winner!

A catchy chug along number in ‘U Devil U’ is next, another good multi layered track some very Schenker like soloing from Norum here, great stuff.
Of course, throughout the album the solid backing of John Leven (Bass) and Ian Haugland is always present, going funky where needed and all powerful and heavy the next minute. Always tight!

‘Run with the Angels’ starts with a very atmospheric yet soulful touch and then it gets heavy again in the chorus, then drops back a touch in the verses and then the bridge just lets the track take off!

The album closes with the really soulful blues of ‘In My Time’ which sounds like they could’ve been writing this way forever. It’s a beautiful track, where Norum really shines in the solo. A precursor for his solo album!

I’ve already said at the start that I feel that this album is just so mature and sounds like they’ve made it exactly how they wanted it and not perhaps how they may have been told to do it!
Great job guys!

Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Band website: www.europetheband.com/

Additional Note from the Editor:
I am still gobsmacked that no one here in the US or Canada, has not picked up on promoting this great release.
PR or A&R folks here in North America, take note. You really could do yourselves a big favour in doing this!
North American fans of the band should search out an import copy, it's really a great piece of work.

Saturday 11th September, 2010

Remembering September 11th, 2001

(Photo from the National Park Service)
Hi folks, forgive me for a moment but this needs to be said.
Today, we should all take a moment, just one minute to consider what happened that fateful day of September 11th, 2001.
When certain individuals, with no care for human life and family in general, took it upon themselves to end the lives of so many innocent people. Mothers, Fathers, Daughters, Sons, Aunt's, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews, Grandmothers and Grandfathers all lost their lives, all because of what? Certain individuals insane and inhumane religious beliefs.
Sometimes, it is all too easy to forget what has gone before, but I for one can never forget that day and the images we all saw on computers or T.V. screens. We all went through shock and horror, in seeing what we saw and disbelief above everything else.
So please today, just take a moment of silence and give thanks for what you have yourself, while families of those thousands today remember someone that they lost on September 11th, 2001.
My thoughts and prayers go out to those families today and always.
Thank you.

Friday, September 10, 2010

First Signal (Feat. Harry Hess) album review

First Signal (Feat. Harry Hess) – Debut album
Released on: Frontiers records. Release Date: August 2010


I was really a late starter on learning to appreciate Canadian act Harem Scarem’s music, for whatever reason – Which still evades me today?! – and yet I really enjoy what I’ve grown to know of it today.

I know the band went through some different phases from being a hook laden classic melodic rocking act, to a few releases that took slight left turns to perhaps throw a few fans off.
In 2006 the band released 'Human Nature' and announced that the tour in support of it would be their last but still promised one more studio album, which came in the shape of the slightly darker album ‘Hope’ in 2008. Will they reunite, who knows?

Anyway, this is their lead vocalist Harry Hess’ side project so let’s move swiftly on here!

Opening with the excellent ‘This City’, Harry Hess and First Signal are going for the proverbial jugular!
What a great catchy, hook laden track. It’s punchy, melodic, not too poppy, but certainly not soft and it really does have it all!
Michael Klein’s guitars are great; with of course class vocals from the former Harem Scarem frontman.

‘When You Believe’ next it follows the exact same path, perhaps a tad less punchy but not by a lot, I mean … Wow!
This album is a Frontiers records project’ release though it seems, with – it seems - no input on the song writing from Mr. Hess whatsoever, although the plan I understand, was for Harry Hess and – Favored Frontiers - producer Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69) to try and recreate the classic Harem Scarem sound of their early albums.
It really is an album that should appeal to fans of let’s say (IMHO), Journey, Toto, Heart, Def Leppard with a modern sounding edge and really anyone who appreciates classy melodic rock.
Various songwriters were brought in to help and it seems to have really worked well.

In ‘Part of Me’ – Incidentally co-written by Richard Marx - it starts a little funky and with an initial vocal that almost brings to mind, Pretty Maids ‘Little Drops of Heaven’ - In it's phrasing - but then it grows into following the same path of the previous two tracks. It has some nice changes in it too. Class!

Incredibly smooth is possibly a good description of next track, the power ballad ‘(Miss you like) Crazy’ which conjures up perhaps Journey meets Chicago type quality.
One thing I will stress though is that Harry Hess is not trying to be Steve Perry, if you’re thinking that where my Journey comparisons lie, far from it. It’s the musical quality I’m talking about and the soaring guitar sounds.
‘Crazy’ really is a sweet – as in cool! – track that should please AOR fans anywhere.

‘Goodbye to the Good Times’ has a slightly funkier verse, before the bridge changes all of that and then the chorus takes the song to yet another level. Hess applies a more gravelly almost blues type vocal in places, but overall a tasty mid paced number.
Again, some very slick guitar lead work from Michael Klein in the solo.

Title track ‘First Signal’ is next, which while still being in the same class as the aforementioned tracks, perhaps lacks just a few of the hooks already heard on the previous five tracks. The chorus is still catchy enough and the musicianship throughout continues. So, on that note how about a little credit to the other players onboard here then?!

AOR gypsy, Eric Ragno – Well, his name seems to be popping up all over the place these days! - provides the slick keyboards on display here. Producer Dennis Ward also provides bass, additional guitar work and backing vocals too, so he proves he’s pretty special too! Chris Schmidt handles the solid drum work throughout and former Harem Scarum mate of Harry’s, Darren Smith provides some much appreciated backing vocals here too.

‘Feels like Love This Time,’ – Co-written by Mark Baker with James Christian (House of Lords) - sounds a little like something Jeff Paris could’ve written and the song rises and takes a few steps back in places throughout. Yes, yet another great track!

I really love ‘Into the Night’ and it almost brings the bands Dare or even Honeymoon Suite to mind here and there. Yeah, it’s kind of a pop rocker with a steady mid pace.

‘When November Falls’ sounds a little like a Richard Marx track and yes, it’s his co-write too and it’s a slow to mid paced number. Smooth.

A little edgier and punchy is next track ‘Yesterday’s Rain,’ with it’s punchy chord structure through the verses and a big chorus. Michael Klein impresses again! We should be hearing more of this guy, his playing is excellent!
Album closer is the chug along, pop rocker ‘Naked Desire’ and Harry almost gives a vocal along the lines of Paul Stanley in his phrasing and I mean no disrespect there either.

I really enjoy this album and I pop this little beauty in the player on and off a number of times, you really should check it out!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Rock News for Friday 10th September, 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
NIJI ENTERTAINMENT GROUP INC. TO ISSUE FIRST RELEASE - 'DIO AT DONINGTON UK: LIVE 1983 AND 1987' 2 CD SET ON NOVEMBER 9TH, 2010

2010 will go down as the year that we lost one of hard rock/heavy metal's all-time great vocalists, Ronnie James Dio (after a valiant battle with cancer).

Throughout a career that saw Ronnie pen or co-pen classics with such legendary acts as Elf, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell, and with his solo group, Dio, there are simply not enough words to describe the singer's contribution to rock music worldwide.
And to celebrate the life of the man that has become synonymous with metal, several new releases will soon be arriving, that are certain to please Dio's large and loyal fanbase.

On November 9th, the double disc set, 'Dio at Donington UK: Live 1983 & 1987' will be released.
The first disc was recorded at the first-ever UK performance by Dio's solo group, while on tour supporting their classic debut, 'Holy Diver.' And the set-list does a superb job reflecting Dio's debut (featuring such classics as "Rainbow in the Dark," "Stand Up And Shout," etc.), as well as classics from both Rainbow and Black Sabbath ("Man on the Silver Mountain," "Heaven and Hell," etc.) - resulting in a thorough retrospective of Dio's career, from Rainbow to Black Sabbath to solo hits.
The second disc of 'Dio at Donington UK: Live 1983 & 1987' features guitarist Craig Goldy's debut - recorded in 1987, in support of the 'Dream Evil' album, and contains highlights from Dio's career.

Tracklist for Dio at Donington UK: Live 1983 and 1987
CD 1: 1983
1. Stand Up and Shout 2. Straight Through the Heart 3. Children of the Sea 4. Rainbow in the Dark 5. Holy Diver 6. Drum Solo 7. Stargazer 8. Guitar Solo 9. Heaven and Hell 10. Man on the Silver Mountain 11. Starstruck 12. Man on the Silver Mountain (Reprise)

CD 2: 1987
1. Dream Evil 2. Neon Knights 3. Naked in the Rain 4. Rock and Roll Children 5. Long Live Rock n’ Roll 6. The Last in Line 7. Children of the Sea 8. Holy Diver 9. Heaven and Hell 10. Man on the Silver Mountain 11. All the Fools Sailed Away 12. The Last in Line (Reprise) 13. Rainbow in the Dark

'Dio at Donington UK: Live 1983 & 1987' will be the very first release from the Niji Entertainment Group (which was formed by Ronnie James Dio and his wife/manager, Wendy Dio, in early 2010).
The set will be released as a deluxe digipak including a booklet filled with rare photographs and liner notes, and original replica all access laminates from both shows.

Ronnie was the executive producer on the Donington project, and was very much looking forward to the release. The Niji Entertainment Group is a full service record label, and will be releasing rare and unreleased recordings from Dio and other artists.

November 23rd will see two additional releases from the Niji Entertainment Group - a deluxe limited edition picture disc of Dio's classic solo debut, 'Holy Diver,' and 'Bitten By The Beast' from David "Rock" Feinstein.
"Rock" is Ronnie's cousin, and was a member of Elf, and the leader of the legendary NY band The Rods. 'Bitten By The Beast,' features the single "Metal Will Never Die," with lead vocals by Ronnie James Dio. This single will be heavily worked to active rock and metal radio this fall.


In 2011, the Niji Entertainment Group has many other Dio-related projects planned, including an extensive vinyl box set (an idea that Ronnie himself came up with), 'For The Record: The Complete Dio Vinyl Collection,' which will feature 16 LP's in a deluxe carrying case, with "all access tour laminates" from every tour. All of the LP's will be on 180 gram colored vinyl. Also, being released for the first time on DVD will be 'Super Rock Japan 1985' (which was only ever released in Japan on VHS).

Another forthcoming DVD release will be a collection of every Dio MTV promotional video, plus live concert footage including bonus features, including interviews with Ronnie, his band, and crew.
A Dio bootleg box set is on the horizon as well, featuring never-before-released sound board recordings and audience recordings.

Other releases from the Niji Entertainment Group in 2011 will include all four Rainbow Dio-era LP's in their original gatefold sleeves on 180 gram colored vinyl, and all three Elf LP's will be issued on 180 gram colored vinyl.

2011 will also see deluxe reissues from Tim "Ripper" Owens, a fantastic new CD from Oni Logan (Lynch Mob vocalist), and Rowan Robertson (Dio guitarist), as well as live Elf.
Between Facebook, Myspace and Twitter, the Dio social media followers now numbers over one million.

The Niji Entertainment Group is in the process of starting the official Dio webstore, which will give fans worldwide opportunity to purchase t-shirts, limited edition items, and CD's/DVD's that fans have been requesting.

While Ronnie was alive, he always wanted to have his own action figure/statue.
And now, this has become a reality - KnuckleBonz has created the Ronnie James Dio rock iconz statue, which will be available in late fall 2010.
These statues are only produced in limited edition runs of 3000, which make them highly collectible and sought after from fans.
A portion from the sales of the Dio statue will go to the Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund, in honor of Ronnie James Dio.
Preorders available by visiting http://www.knucklebonz.com/
For more information, please visit:

Ozzy announces End of Year North American arena tour


OZZY OSBOURNE will return to North America for a month-long arena tour launching November 12 in Victoria, B.C. and concluding December 12 in Minneapolis. These shows -- in support of his album SCREAM (Epic Records) and latest single “Life Won’t Wait” -- are part the of the Rock Legend’s in-progress 18-month world tour on which he’s earning some of the best live reviews of his career (including raves for new guitarist, Gus G). HALFORD, featuring legendary Judas Priest front man, Rob Halford, will perform on all dates. The first leg of arena dates will mark OZZY’s first headlining North American tour since 2007’s trek for his Black Rain album.
Tickets for the Live Nation-produced tour go on sale beginning Friday, September 17.

New North American 2010 tour dates are:
November 2010
Fri 11/12/10 Victoria, BC Save On Foods Memorial Centre
Sun 11/14/10 Vancouver, BC Rogers Arena
Tue 11/16/10 Calgary, AB Pengrowth Saddledome
Thu 11/18/10 Edmonton, AB Rexall Place
Sat 11/20/10 Winnipeg, MB MTS Centre
Tue 11/23/10 Montreal, QC Bell Centre
Thu 11/25/10 Ottawa, ON Scotiabank Place
Sat 11/27/10 Toronto, ON Air Canada Centre
December 2010
Wed 12/01/10 New York, NY Madison Square Garden Arena
Fri 12/03/10 East Rutherford, NJ IZOD Center
Sun 12/05/10 Cleveland, OH Quicken Loans Arena
Sun 12/12/10 Minneapolis, MN Target Center
OZZY is now on a run of acclaimed festival appearances and headlining overseas performances, including two OZZFest dates: London at O2 Arena September 18 and Tel Aviv, Israel at Heyarkon Park September 28. This overseas trek includes stops in Russia, Italy, Czech Republic, France, Denmark, Sweden, Greece, Finland, Norway, Germany, Romania and Turkey, before wrapping October 4 in Hungary. OZZY then heads to Japan (October 13, 16 and 17) before returning to the U.S. to headline the Voodoo Experience festival Halloween weekend in New Orleans, LA.

A limited number of VIP tickets are available for each show on the North American tour through two unique “Meet & Greet” packages. VIP packages go on sale Monday September 13 at 10:00 AM (local venue time) and are limited to 4 per show date for the M&G package and 8 per show date for the party package. Descriptions of the two VIP packages are as follows:

• The “Ozzy Osbourne Meet & Greet Package” is limited to 30 tickets per show and amenities include: premium seating within the first 3 rows of the stage, Meet & Greet and personal photograph with OZZY, VIP access to the exclusive pre-concert party hosted by MC Big Dave and a variety of OZZY tour- related items.

• The “Ozzy Osbourne Possessed Party Package” -- available to the first 200 buyers -- includes a ticket located within the first 10 rows of the stage, VIP access to the exclusive pre-concert party hosted by MC Big Dave and a variety of OZZY tour-related items.

At the same time, OZZY’s first-ever official free iTunes app--simply called OZZY--will be the best way for fans to obtain the most up-to-date information, including tour dates. Users can experience music from OZZY’s 30-year solo career with access to a full discography featuring direct links to his iTunes page for a one-stop link to purchase of any song or album from his catalog. In addition, once downloaded, users can view music videos and photo galleries, access OZZY’s current concert dates and buy tickets for upcoming shows, or they can instantly post comments and photos from shows they’ve just attended. A built-in fan wall also allows users to communicate with each other and search (by location) to find fellow OZZY fans in their town. The OZZY app is fully integrated with his official Twitter feed and has direct links to all of his other social networking sites as well as OZZY’s official online store.

The fall dates will coincide with the October 5 release of an expanded two-CD version of the SCREAM album. This “Tour Edition” package will feature seven bonus songs: a mix of previously unreleased tracks and live recordings. Epic will also issue a four-sided vinyl edition that includes five bonus tracks: the three aforementioned songs from the SCREAM sessions and the live version of “Let Me Hear You Scream,” along with the single version of “Life Won't Wait” (the second single from SCREAM).

TICKETMASTER COMMEMORATIVE KISS TICKETS ANYONE?


Is this taking things just a little too far with Kiss or is it pretty cool?
I think it's alright, but it should just be a case of being available for everyone that has bought tickets on the current tour and at regular price, 'because you are going to see (and support) Kiss!
I think it's wrong to be charging extra, the sad thing is, people are always prepared to pay for stuff like this.
Anyway, here the info that I found through the bands Facebook page:

You "Rocked and Rolled All Nite," with KISS, now rock a one-of-a-kind concert souvenir!
Introducing the limited edition KISS Souvenir Ticket -- a glossy, full-color, holographic souvenir available only to KISS concert-goers like you.
Each souvenir ticket is just $12 (plus a small processing fee) and displays your actual seat location -- making every souvenir unique.

It's the perfect show-off piece for the ultimate KISS fan. But hurry -- if you wait too long you'll kiss this amazing offer goodbye. Order your one-of-a-kind souvenir tickets by Monday, September 13th with the following instructions:
HOW TO ORDER
Email Ticketmaster at ticketmasterus@mailca.custhelp.com with:
1) Your Kiss event order number.
2) The number of souvenir tickets you'd like. Must be equal to or less than the number of concert tickets you bought.*
3) The last four digits of the credit card used to purchase the original tickets. This is for security purposes.*

A $2.50 processing fee applies to each order. Allow 4 - 6 weeks for delivery.
*The original credit card charged for the original concert tickets will be used for souvenir ticket purchases.
*Getting souvenir tickets for only some of your concert tickets? Souvenir tickets can be made only for consecutive seat numbers, beginning with the lowest. For example, if you purchased 4 concert tickets with seats numbered 1 - 4 and only buy 3 souvenir tickets, the seat numbers printed on your souvenir tickets will be 1 - 3. You will not be able to get 2 - 4 or any other combination other than 1 - 3.

Only those who've purchased KISS concert tickets are eligible to purchase souvenir tickets and are limited to one souvenir ticket per concert ticket purchased.

Some brief news items too!

Robin Trower - First US Tour Dates, Now Online
The first US Robin Trower 2011 tour dates have been announced. Details are available on the Tours page - www.trowerpower.com/tours.asp - More confirmed dates have been added!

Lynch Mob update
Lynch Mob has a new Myspace page! - The new page is www.myspace.com/georgelynch
The old Myspace page will be phased-out and will no longer be updated/supported.

Lynch Mob is also proud to announce that bassist Robbie Crane is joining the band for the rest of the upcoming tour dates. Robbie has performed with Ratt and Vince Neil as well as many other top artists in his career.
Current Lynch Mob European tour dates are:
Oct. 2010
Oct 30 Firefest Nottingham UK
Nov. 2010
Nov 2 Rockbar Fans Sofia BULGARIA
Nov 3 A38 Ship Budapest HUNGARY
Nov 6 De Bosuil Weert NETHERLANDS
Nov 7 Sala Heineken Madrid SPAIN
Nov 9 Apolo 2 Barcelona SPAIN
Nov 10 Atelier Luxembourg city LUXEMBOURG
Nov 11 Szene Vienna AUSTRIA
Nov 12 Z7 Pratteln SWITZERLAND
Nov 13 Paranoid Viareggio ITALY
Nov 14 Arcitom Mantova ITALY
Nov 17 Le Divan duMonde Paris FRANCE
Nov 18 Sticky Fingers Göteborg SWEDEN
Nov 19 Sigurdsgatan 25 Västeras SWEDEN
Nov 20 Gamla Oslo NORWAY

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Rock News for Thursday 9th September, 2010

MIKE PORTNOY QUITS DREAM THEATER!

Yes, seems it's true that Dream Theater's drummer of 25 years, Mike Portnoy has decided to call it quits on the band!
He had this posted at his website and his Twitter page:
This is a sad, sad day....I'm afraid I have some bad news.... MP/DT Sept 1985 - Sept 2010


Then on his Facebook page, he spilled the beans completely!

Mike Portnoy leaves Dream Theater!

"I am about to write something I never imagined I'd ever write:
After 25 years, I have decided to leave Dream Theater....the band I founded, led and truly loved for a quarter of a century.

To many people this will come as a complete shock, and will also likely be misunderstood by some, but please believe me that it is not a hasty decision...it is something I have struggled with for the last year or so....

After having had such amazing experiences playing with Hail, Transatlantic and Avenged Sevenfold this past year, I have sadly come to the conclusion that I have recently had more fun and better personal relations with these other projects than I have for a while now in Dream Theater...
Please don't misinterpret me, I love the DT guys dearly and have a long history, friendship and bond that runs incredibly deep with them...it's just that I think we are in serious need of a little break...

Dream Theater was always my baby...and I nurtured that baby every single day and waking moment of my life since 1985...24/7, 365...never taking time off from DT's never-ending responsibilites (even when the band was "off" between cycles)...working overtime and way beyond the call of duty that most sane people ever would do for a band...
But I've come to the conclusion that the DT machine was starting to burn me out...and I really needed a break from the band in order to save my relationship with the other members and keep my DT spirit hungry and inspired.

We have been on an endless write/record/tour cycle for almost 20 years now (of which I have overseen EVERY aspect without a break) and while a few months apart from each other here & there over the years has been much needed and helpful, I honestly hoped the band could simply agree with me to taking a bit of a "hiatus" to recharge our batteries and "save me from ourselves"...
Sadly, in discussing this with the guys, they determined they do not share my feelings and have decided to continue without me rather than take a breather...I even offered to do some occasional work throughout 2011 against my initial wishes, but it was not to be...

While it truly hurts for me to even think of a Dream Theater without Mike Portnoy (hell, my father named the band!!), I do not want to stand in their way...so I have decided to sacrifice myself and simply leave the band so as to not hold them back against their wishes....

Strangely enough, I just read an interview that I recently did that asked me about the future of DT and I talked about "always following your heart and being true to yourself"...sadly I must say that at this particular moment, my heart is not with Dream Theater...and I would simply be "going through the motions", and would honestly NOT be true to myself if I stayed for the sake of obligation without taking the break I felt I needed.

I wish the guys the best and hope the music and legacy we created together is enjoyed by fans for decades to come...I am proud of every album we made, every song we wrote and every show we played....I'm sorry to all the disappointed DT fans around the world...I really tried to salvage the situation and make it work...I honestly just wanted a break (not a split)...but happiness cannot be forced, it needs to come from within....
You DT fans are the greatest fans in the world and as you all know, I have always busted my ass for you guys and I hope that you will stay with me on my future musical journey, wherever it may lead me....(and as you all know my work ethic, there will surely be no shortage of future MP projects!)

Sadly...
Your fearless ex-leader and drummer,
MP

The Dream Theater response and Press release

September 8th - 2010

DREAM THEATER PRESS RELEASE

To all of our loyal fans and friends: It is with profound sadness -- regret -- we announce that Mike Portnoy, our lifelong drummer and friend, has decided to leave Dream Theater.
Mike's stature in the band has meant the world to all of us professionally, musically, and personally over the years. There is no dispute: Mike has been a major force within this band. While it is true that Mike is choosing to pursue other ventures and challenges, we can assure you that Dream Theater will continue to move forward with the same intensity -- and in the same musical tradition -- that you have all helped make so successful, and which is truly gratifying to us.
Fans and friends: File this episode under "Black Clouds and Silver Linings." - The title of the last Dream Theater album!
As planned, we begin recording our newest album in January 2011, and we'll follow that with a full-on world tour. "The Spirit Carries On."
All of us in Dream Theater wholeheartedly wish Mike the best on his musical journey. We have had a long and meaningful career together. It is our true hope that he finds all he is looking for, and that he achieves the happiness he deserves.
He will be missed.

INTRODUCING VEGA!

Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of VEGA, a very exciting new Melodic Rock band from the UK, featuring former KICK vocalist Nick Workman and the successful and respected songwriting partnership of Tom and James Martin (House of Lords, Ted Poley of Danger Danger, Khymera, Sunstorm to name but a few), together with drummer Dan Chantrey.

VEGA are set to bring back the reputation of British Melodic Rock music with a strongly original sound approach that while obviously influenced by the genre’s greatest names (from Bon Jovi, to Def Leppard and Journey) adds a strong personal element that will definitely bring the band to the attention of a very wide audience.

The band’s debut album “Kiss Of Life” has been recorded under the direction of producer John Greatwood (engineer for Tom Lord-Alge of QUEEN fame), with the band selecting a total of 12 songs out of a total of 25 written for the purpose. Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69) stepped up to the plate to put the final touches to the album, mastering it in his studio in Germany. The band has also recently finished the shooting of the first video for the album title track, which will be launched as first single in the fall.

Singer Nick Workman commented: “We are pleased and excited to be signed to Frontiers Records. We are very proud of this album and believe that it brings new vibe to the rock scene whilst maintaining the roots of all of the bands that have inspired us over the years!”

Frontiers plans to release the debut album “Kiss of Life” later this year with more details to follow later. VEGA will be out on the road in the new year taking their music to the Rock fans live on stage!

Brief update - Steve Newman working with Mark Thompson-Smith

This posted over at the Newman website ...

BACK IN THE STUDIO!

Steve Newman has re-commenced mixing on the project he has been working on with Mark Thompson-Smith. The project, entitled "Big Life" should be nearing completion towards the end of next month and we'll have more details (and the first soundbytes) on this in the coming weeks. Release date TBC.


Mark's last solo release from a few years back was 'A Far Cry From New Jersey' and for those that didn't know it, the man has also had stints fronting Praying Mantis and The Sweet.
Watch this space!!

KISKE - SOMERVILLE CD RELEASE PARTIES
(Sorry, they are only in Germany!)

Underdawg Promotion has arranged the following Club Parties in Germany to celebrate the release of the highly anticipated KISKE – SOMERVILLE album.
September 2010
23.9.10 - Ochsenfurt @ Postkeller
23.9.10 - Ludenscheid @ Alte Druckerei
24.9.10 - Uster (CH) @ Rock City
24.9.10 - Ludwigsburg @ Rock Fabirk (Michael Kiske and Amanda Somerville will make a special personal appearance in this party!)
25.9.10 Darmstadt @ Steinbruch Theater


During the parties the album and videoclips will be played in full and some free copies of the album will be raffled.
For more updates, go to: www.frontiers.it/news/10417/

Catch Night Ranger on TV this weekend!

Saw this posted over at the Night Ranger site, check it out!
Hey folks, Tune in this Saturday!

Night Ranger will be performing "God Bless America" on ABC this Saturday, September 11th at 7:30 pm for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series: Air Guard 400. This 26th race of the 36 race season marks NASCAR drivers' final opportunity to "lock-in" as the top 12 drivers that will participate in the 10-race playoffs.

Also be sure to head over to Night Ranger's upcoming show at the Verizon Ampitheater in Irvine, CA on 9/18 via the Tour page to check out the packed line-up of rock prowess!
The bands website is: www.nightranger.com/

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Rock News for Wednesday 8th September, 2010

 
THE SCORPIONS ARE TO RETURN TO THE U.S. NEXT SUMMER!
HAVING JUST WRAPPED A TRIUMPHANT NORTH AMERICAN TOUR
GROUP TO HIT MEXICO AND SOUTH AMERICA SEPTEMBER 4
BEFORE RETURNING TO EUROPE AS PART OF THEIR MASSIVE WORLD TOUR


“Scorpions numbers are solid in a summer where consistency is treasured.” - Ray Waddell, Billboard (8/21/10)

For those who have not yet been stung by the mighty SCORPIONS’ latest concert tour, “The Best Is Yet To Come.”

Although the band recently wrapped a triumphant 38-show tour of North America in Chicago at the (sold out in advance) Rosemont Theatre, they are now booking more U.S. shows next summer since their overseas tour commitments had prevented them from adding more U.S. shows this year. The group will hit cities they did not get a chance to perform in. The SCORPIONS are now on a brief break and will resume their “GET YOUR STING AND BLACKOUT WORLD TOUR 2010” tour September 4 in Mexico and South America before heading back to Europe with dates confirmed through November 27 in their German homeland.

The farewell tour by the iconic band--KLAUS MEINE (vocals), MATTHIAS JABS (lead guitar), RUDOLF SCHENKER (guitar), JAMES KOTTAK (drums) and PAWEL MACIWODA (bass)--is in support of their latest album STING IN THE TAIL (Universal Music Enterprises). It entered the U.S. chart at #23, marking the band’s highest chart debut in over 20 years. The SCORPIONS’ tour--in celebration of 40-plus years in music--has been a massive success in a soft touring economy, with the group filling many of the arenas they performed at in the United States and Canada.

In a recent interview (8/21/10) with Billboard’s Ray Waddell, lead singer KLAUS MEINE said, “What can I say? It’s a celebration…We feel we owe it to our fans and ourselves to keep this energy level. What we pull off every night on this tour, we want to keep it that way to the very last show. We don’t want to see ourselves rocking like a hurricane when it’s not a hurricane anymore.” Of the touring climate right now, Waddell said, “Scorpions numbers are solid in a summer where consistency is treasured.”

MEINE adds that it “feels great to do this final curtain thing on our own terms and not to wait until this whole thing breaks apart. To see these emotional reactions every night means a lot.” Critical accolades have also been pouring in:

Here’s what writer Bobby Reed said of the Chicago Sun-Times said:
"They came, they rocked us like a hurricane, and they said goodbye. Saturday night at the Rosemont Theater, hard-rock icons the Scorpions performed in the United States for perhaps the last time… The excellent show at the Rosemont Theatre was the final date on the U.S. leg of the tour. The two-hour concert was peppered with ballads (‘Still Loving You’) and hooky melodies (‘Bad Boys Running Wild’), two elements that helped make the Scorpions one of the most successful hard rock acts ever to emerge from Europe….Meine possesses a siren-like voice that can soar above all the heavy guitar riffs, as on the last encore, ‘Rock You Like a Hurricane.’ Meine supplemented the band's biggest hit, the 1991 ballad ‘Wind of Change,’ with his famous whistling motif. The band played three songs from its recent studio album, the glossy, credible Sting in the Tail. The live version of the uptempo ‘Raised on Rock’ was a fist-pumper spiked by a talk box on some springy guitar riffs (8/23/10).”

Of the band's show in Colorado, Candace Horgan of the Denver Post said:
“Despite their ages (vocalist Klaus Meine and Schenker both turn 62 this year, Jabs will turn 55), Scorpions still have plenty of energy. Meine’s voice soars high on everything from classic power ballads to Scorpions’ best known anthems, and Schenker stalked the stage like the demented loon he played in the video for ‘No One Like You’ (8/19/10).”

In New Orleans, Alison Fensterstock of the Times-Picayune wrote:
“When the headliners, the Scorpions, took the stage at about 9:30 p.m., happy pandemonium reigned. The German monsters of rock, formed the mid-60’s, transformed the midsize theater into an arena with mountains of LED-screen risers and huge video displays featuring pixilated shots of the band and crowd…The Scorpions have had a lot of practice, and they’re masters of spectacle (7/20/10).”

Stay tuned for more news from the SCORPIONS.
About the SCORPIONS: During their 40-year career, SCORPIONS have sold over 100 million albums, earning multiple gold and platinum albums, and received many awards, such as the World Music Award and several Echos--the German comparison to the Grammy. Their unmistakable hard rock sound has allowed the band to remain an influential and powerful force in rock music, and their song “Wind of Change” has become an anthem for the fall of the Iron Curtain. Their new and final album, STING IN THE TAIL, released March 23, 2010 via Universal Music Enterprises, entered the Billboard Top 200 charts at #23, marking the band’s highest chart debut in over 20 years. The album also landed at #6 on the Rock Albums chart. “Raised on Rock”--the album’s anthemic first single--reached the #1 spot at classic rock radio and adds to their remarkable list of hits including “Rock You Like A Hurricane,” “Wind of Change” and “No One Like You.” In 2010, the band were inducted into RockWalk at Guitar Center in Hollywood, CA, the only sidewalk gallery dedicated to honoring those artists who have made a significant impact and lasting contribution to the growth and evolution of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Blues, and R&B.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
‘X’ MARKS THE SPOT FOR NEW RELEASE FROM PROG ROCKERS SPOCK’S BEARD


NEW YORK – Acclaimed progressive rock band Spock’s Beard will release its tenth studio album, the aptly titled “X,” on September 28 via Mascot Records.

Over the past 17 years, Spock’s Beard has established itself as the crème de la crème of modern progressive rock. But Spock’s Beard is not simply a musician’s band; the group has also mastered the art of penning catchy, harmony-driven songs that will appeal to any fan of well-written pop songs.

The music of Spock’s Beard is a reflection of their varied influences, which include classical, pop, rock, jazz and jazz fusion, and R&B, while their intricate multi-part vocal harmonies and use of counterpoint add a whole other dimension.

Since Spock’s Beard began playing together in the early ‘90s, not only have musical phases come and gone, but a whole new model of recording and selling music has taken shape. There were a lot of “firsts” for the group on “X.”

“We were never all in the same room at the same time, from the song writing stage all the way through mixing and mastering,” said bassist Dave Meros. “We have never done that before. One might think that would work against us, but apparently it had a positive effect in this case.”

The quartet’s dedicated fanbase can take partial credit for “X.” After coming to the end of their previous record deal, Spock’s Beard opted to take a decidedly modern approach to financing a new record. The group raised funds for recording by taking pre-sale orders for “X.” A privately released Limited Edition version of “X” was first issued and the record has since been licensed for release in America through Mascot Records.

Early reviews of “X” have hailed the release as one of – if not THE – finest release from Spock’s Beard. But pressed to explain how “X” differs from previous albums, Meros takes a humble and humorous observation:

“From what the critics have been saying, we wrote good songs this time, as opposed to the last CD which was super lame in their opinion. So in retrospect, I guess writing good songs may have been a good idea. We do that on purpose you know…sometimes we decide to be good and other times we choose to be super lame. We could be good all the time if we wanted, but what fun would that be? People would just love us and buy our CDs by the millions and we'd make loads of money. Who wants that? BORING!”

Also ...

SPOCK’S BEARD MAKES RARE NORTH AMERICAN LIVE APPEARANCE

NEW YORK - Acclaimed progressive rock band Spock’s Beard will play its one and only American show at the Downey Civic Theater in Downey, Calif., on Sunday, September 12.

Despite being a world-renowned recording act and touring act, Spock’s Beard rarely plays in America due to prohibitive touring costs. Spock’s Beard is booked for a European tour during the last two weeks in September, which made this one-off show possible.

“Since we'll all be in LA at the same time doing rehearsals for the Europe tour anyway, we thought we'd try to book one LA date right before we left,” said Dave Meros, bassist for the band.

Spock’s Beard will release its tenth album, “X,” on September 28 on Music Theories Recordings, a subsidiary of Mascot Records. “X” has received rave reviews and will be the focus of the live show. “We'll be doing the whole ‘X’ CD plus some selected oldies to round out the set,” Meros said.
Tickets are available at http://www.calprog.com/ Credit card and PayPal are accepted. The cost is $55 for a reserved seat.

Mascot Records is an independent record company based in The Netherlands that specializes in guitar music, from metal to instrumental guitar, hard rock, prog rock and (guitar) fusion.

BBC - 'Rock anthems vanishing from chart'

Folk band Mumford & Sons have been one of the year's few successful guitar groups The number of rock hits appearing in the UK singles chart has shrunk this year, according to figures from the Official Charts Company.

Sales of rock singles have dropped by almost 18% in the first eight months of 2010, compared with last year.
Urban single sales are up 33%, with pop rising 30% in the same period.
Music Week magazine said just five of the 100 best-selling singles of the year so far were classed as rock, led by Journey's Don't Stop Believin'.
That song was first released in 1981 and has recently enjoyed renewed popularity after being covered on the TV show Glee.

“It's very difficult to get a bona fide rock hit these days, even by some of the biggest bands” said James Curran - Absolute Radio

The only other hits in the top 100 list to be classed as rock by the OCC were two tracks by singer-songwriter Florence and the Machine, one by folk band Mumford And Sons and one by dance act Pendulum.
To read the full story:

LEMMY KILMISTER CONFIRMED FOR:
MARKY RAMONE’S BENEFIT CONCERT OF RAMONES MUSIC WITH ALL-STAR BAND
BILLY SHEEHAN, MICHALE GRAVES, JEFF DUNCAN, MARKO DESANTIS & ANDY HILFIGER
Friday, October 8th - In Hollywood, CA @ Musicians Institute

HOLLYWOOD, CA (September 7, 2010) – Lemmy Kilmister (Motorhead) has confirmed to play along with Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big, David Lee Roth), Michael Graves (The Misfits), Jeff Duncan (Armored Saint), Marko DeSantis (Sugarcult), Andy Hilfiger (bassologist/Fashion Guru) and Marky Ramone himself for a full concert of The Ramones.
You will hear the music that defined many generations and inspired many bands. Marky’s set list is comprised of 31 historical Ramones songs such as SEDATED, K.K.K., PSYCHOTHERAPY, BLITZKREIG BOP, PINHEAD and more!

The legendary Rock Hall of Fame drummer for The Ramones is performing a special all-star fund-raising concert on Friday, October 8, 2010 at 8pm in the MI Concert Hall. Doors open at 7:30pm. The concert is in benefit for the newly-created Marky Ramone Drum Scholarship for Musicians Institute in Hollywood, CA. “I am much honored to be chosen as an artist for the scholarship program. Music for kids is very important to have,” explains Marky. 100% of the event proceeds will fund the newly-created Marky Ramone Drum Scholarship at MI.

ONLINE ADVANCE SALE: General Admission seats (festival seating) are $30, VIP seating is $45 (guaranteed first 3 rows), $99 VIP Backstage (First 3 rows seating guaranteed Backstage Pass
After-Show Meet & Greet
Special Marky Ramone Gift bag).
To Buy MARKY RAMONE Concert Tickets or go to http://www.ticketweb.com/

WALK-UP (day of show): General Admission seats (festival seating) are $35, VIP seating is $50 (guaranteed first 3 rows), VIP Backstage not available.

Musicians Institute Concert Hall
1655 N. McCadden Place
Hollywood, CA 90028

Marky Ramone is a member of the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame, and is best known for the 15 years he spent drumming for The Ramones. The Ramones formed in 1974, and are often cited as the first punk-rock group. Marky is the only living member of the longest running Ramones line-up – which featured Johnny, Joey, Dee Dee, and Marky. He has performed over 1700 shows and more than 15 album releases during his tenure (starting in 1978) as a member of The Ramones.

For more info on Marky Ramone or the concert:


THE CRINGE
ROCKS INTO THE FALL WITH NEW TOUR DATES



September 7, 2010 – It’s been a busy summer for New York rock combo THE CRINGE —singer/songwriter/guitarist John Cusimano, lead guitarist James Rotondi (ex-Air, Mr. Bungle), bassist Jonny Matias (ex-Crash Moderns) and drummer Shawn Pelton (“Saturday Night Live” Band, Bruce Springsteen) — and their activity is only accelerating heading into the Fall. Since the June 8 release of their third album, PLAY THING, the band has kept busy on the road, online and in the media.

Kicking off the campaign for PLAY THING with a much buzzed about SXSW gig, at which they were joined on stage by Blues Traveler’s John Popper, the band has embarked on a rigorous touring schedule which sees them headlining clubs like New York’s Highline Ballroom and supporting well-known acts such as Blues Traveler, Sponge, The Alarm, Bob Schneider, The Gracious Few (ex Live and Candlebox members) and Antigone Rising.

“Rock ‘n’ Roll is all about getting out on stage and delivering,” says John Cusimano, “and I’m psyched that we’ve been able to bring our music out to our fans and make new ones by playing with an assortment of fantastic, musically diverse artists.”

Other highlights from the summer have been:
· Appearances on TV and radio, such as New York’s PIX11 Morning show and “Out of the Box with Jonathan Clarke” on Q104.3
· Guitarist Roto’s blog post in support of Independent Record stores getting picked up nationwide via MTV.COM
· Production of a music video for “Weary Me” shot by fans at New York’s Highline Ballroom.
· “Where It Hurts” featured on ESPN.COM
· Recording of a 5 song, live EP to be released later this year

Reviews for the new record have also been coming in steadily:

· “The Cringe plays highly polished melodic hard rock… PLAY THING presents a band seemingly ready for a breakthrough”Allmusic.com

· “…excellent mesh of power-pop and garage-rock.”Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

· “…their best work to date…The Cringe come with a power rock sound that includes elements of punk, pop and hard rock. There are revved up moments of angst and aggression that are aimed at our society and its beliefs & principles…They bring you socially conscious music to really listen close to and hear the truth.”Skopemag.com

· “…..tightly arranged radio-friendly alternative rock” MusicEmissions.com

· “…solid song-writing and musicianship that produces solid pop rock” --- Blogcritics.org

Recorded with longtime engineer Steve Hardy (Vertical Horizon, The Upwelling), and with input from legendary producer Steve Lillywhite (U2, XTC), PLAY THING showcases some of the band’s heaviest, headiest moments to date, including the prog-infused “Poison,” the art-thrash excursion “Where It Hurts,” and the album’s first single, “No Control,” with its whiff of Soundgarden psychedelia and early Pumpkins snarl. Containing some of Cusimano’s most mature songcraft to date—the cautionary tale “Give and Take” is a case in point—the album is the result of a painstaking writing process and a rigorous recording ethic, a creative collision of analog purists and digital renegades, both committed to creating the strongest possible album.
Fans can check out THE CRINGE at any of the following stops:

DATE CITY VENUE
Fri 9/10 Philadelphia, PA Tin Angel (acoustic w/Antigone Rising)
Wed 9/15 Brooklyn,, NY Europa Club
Th 9/16 Foxboro, MA Showcase Live (w/The Alarm)
Fri 9/17 Portland, ME Port City Music Hall (w/Bob Schneider)
Sat 9/18 Boston, MA Harper’s Ferry (w/Bob Schneider)
Th 10/14 Springfield, MO Gillioz Theater (w/Blues Traveler)
Fr 10/15 Kansas City, MO Harrah’s (w/Blues Traveler)
Sat 10/16 Napervile., IL Pfeiffer Hall (w/Blues Traveler)
Tu 10/19 New York, NY Village Underground (CMJ Showcase)
Tu 11/2 Salisbury, MA Blue Ocean (w/Blues Traveler)
We 11/3 New York, NY Irving Plaza (w/The Gracious Few)
Fri 11/5 Brooklyn, NY Brooklyn Bowl (w/Blues Traveler)
Sat 11/6 Brooklyn, NY Brooklyn Bowl (w/Blues Traveler)
Tu 11/9 New York, NY Santos Party House
Fri 11/19 Hoboken, NJ Lovesexy