Zeroking – Kings of Self Destruction album review

Zeroking – Kings of Self Destruction album review

Released on: Vanity Music Group Release date: Available now

OK, this is a band that I had never heard of before and so was thinking, oh boy another new band to try and get into, on top of all the other stuff in for review from established artists and more …

Zeroking hail from West Virginia and formed in 2005, this album 'Kings of Self Destruction' is – so the press release says. – the bands third release, although I can only find info on this and one other release, an EP released in 2006 titled ‘Sweet Sale of Excess.’

The band without doubt tends to go for a heavier sound generally, but there is clearly a commercial edge to them, with many of the hook-lines in their songs.

The band consists of: Andy Haught - Lead Vocals, Shane Day - Guitars, Paul "JP" First - Bass and Christopher Webb - Drums.

Opening track ‘Dead Rockstar’ really sets the pace, as it’s a hard rocking tune about drugs, drinking, partying and so on …

Er, if you don’t like profanity - swearing to the common man! – then you won’t like this!

The majority of the song, musically I cannot deny I love, lyrics, well it’s all sleazy stuff and where the vocals change from the main vocal performance here, I don’t like it. It’s like dropping in some thrash grudge vocals … Shame, as otherwise it’s great musically.

‘Forget Vegas’ next starts believe it or not, with a big old brass section reminiscent of the old Ska music that swamped the UK music scene in the 80’s, but then the song totally rocks out as the opener.

Funny, it’s almost like heavy metal Duran Duran with the hooks it has. Really like the performance without doubt, very strong indeed. I’m surprised that they have not been picked up by a major who wants the next Buckcherry, heavier Nickelback or similar?

With ‘She Said’ next, it remains up tempo and musically still as strong as the two previous songs, but as it’s sung it lacks a little something. It’s still catchy and I can’t quite nail what I’m missing, but there’s something.

‘Showtime Revolution’ has an opening riff that almost reminds me of ‘We’re an American Band,’ but then it takes its own identity. Again, very catchy, hook laden material, but the vocals tend to have more of the thrashier sound about them.

Nice guitar solo though, if short.

With ‘Southern Lady X Godiva’ it starts with some southern honky tonk piano, which soon passes and the dirty riffs – consistent throughout. – kick in. It’s almost like a dirtier ZZ Top riff. It is catchy in the chorus again, no question and it’s certainly grooving. The piano reappears briefly as the song enters the final third. Lyrics remain in the same sleazy territory again.

‘Stone Cold Bitch’ opens very strongly, love the riffs and short guitar licks, before the dirty vocals kick in again, but they again shift up and down. It’s almost like Andy Haught isn’t sure which way to take the song vocally, to me.

At times he can sound like James Hetfield (Metallica) even almost like Slayer and then he sings completely differently, with great harmony. Kind of confusing to the listener, but then I guess Metallica have moments like that too. It’s just not my bag …

Next it’s ‘Love Is Dead,’ which also features Stacee Lawson alongside Haught, which keeps the song in a more melodic and commercial vein. Really good track indeed!

The title track, ‘Kings of Self Destruction’ is next and it’s a punchy number, many signature changes and Haught sings with the vocal pretty much in between both directions throughout.

‘Girls of California’ next holds nothing back lyrically, sleazy f-bomb here in every chorus … Then after about the halfway point of the song, Haught gets to the possessed sounding vocals again briefly.

A song about getting wasted next in ‘The Party’s Over,’ the guitar melody seems a little all over the place here and the song doesn’t really grab me at all.

 

‘Black Friday’ starts with a dark and dirty riff and then gets into a steady mid paced rocker, then ‘Valentine’ starts with some nice piano, accompanied by some strings and it’s actually a very atmospheric ballad. Interesting guitar solo too …

‘Leaving Los Angeles’ next starts gently and then gets into a kind of alternative power ballad groove. Not bad.

 

Next it’s into the bonus tracks, with an alternative outtake of ‘Valentine’ first, then an acoustic radio station version of ‘Stone Cold Bitch.’

The single edit version of ‘Girls of California’ wraps the album up.

 

Musically there’s a lot about the album I find pretty good and a lot of the time, I think Andy Haught’s vocals are great, it’s when the ‘possessed’ vocals take over that put simply, I can’t stand …

I’m sure there’s plenty of takers for this though, so what do I know?

Rating: 2.75 out of 5

Late News Update for Thursday April 19th, 2012

Hi All,

Hope your week has gone well so far, look we're almost there, past hump day and tomorrow is Friday, yeah! It's also my daughter's birthday who is about to turn seven, going on thirteen!!!

Sorry this comes to you late in the day and yes, it means they'll most likely be no update tomorrow ...

Sad news about Dick Clark yesterday, although based on seeing him for the past decade doing the New Year's Eve show, everyone here has seen the guy deteriorate more and more sadly each year, follwing his stroke back in 2004.

The guy has been such a legend here in the US, so as an Englishman who has lived in the States for just twelve years, I can't begin to come close to capturing a significant enough tribute to the man that put simply, was American Bandstand, the mega show that started way back in 1957 when rock 'n' rock was all the rage!

I leave the tributes to my peers, captured here in todays news update.

Take care folks, RIP Dick Clark,

Al

Dick Clark RIP

1929 - 2012

As I have already said in my opening few words, that I'm an Englishman who really has had such a small comprehension of the impact TV star Dick Clark made on American music lovers, from the '50's and onwards.

I do know the name though and heck, the guy even had a restaurant chain named after him!

He is reported to have left an estate worth hundreds of millions, that's how big a household name he was here in America.

These are just a few of the many, many tributes that have been paid to the man who many will say, started it all, back in the '50's. RIP Dick Clark.

STATEMENT FROM ‘THE MAN WITH THE GOLDEN EARS,’ KAL RUDMAN, PUBLISHER OF THE FRIDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK, BIBLE OF THE BROADCAST AND MUSIC INDUSTRIES, ON THE DEATH OF HIS CLOSE FRIEND AND MENTOR, DICK CLARK

CHERRY HILL, NJ - “The passing of Dick Clark removes one of the largest foundation stones of the entire pop music industry for the latter half of the 20th century. Starting with ‘Bandstand,’ his shows absolutely made most of the hits from the beginning.

Others in radio might aspire to the title, but they had to follow what Dick Clark played - especially, and obviously, dance music. I mourn his death. He took me under his wing and became my guide in reaching the tastemakers of the record and radio industries.

On behalf of the staff of the Friday Morning Quarterback, we send our deep condolences to Dicks’s wife, Kari, and the entire Clark family."

Weblink:

www.fmqb.com

STATEMENT FROM THE DOVELLS, PHILADELPHIA ‘BANDSTAND’ DANCE CRAZE REGULARS, ON THE PASSING OF DICK CLARK

Tribute to Dick Clark to be included in The Dovells’ 50h Anniversary concert on April 21

PHILADELPHIA – Jerry Gross, lead singer of Philadelphia ‘Bandstand’ dance craze regulars The Dovells (“The Bristol Stomp,” “You Can’t Sit Down”), had the following to say about the passing of Dick Clark:

“Dick Clark was a legend who helped a lot of acts, including us, gain stardom and have many, many hit records. The entertainment world will sorely miss Dick Clark.”

In memory of Dick Clark, the Dovells are putting together a special tribute to him to be included in their 50th anniversary concert, scheduled for Saturday (April 21) at the Scottish Rite Auditorium in Cherry Hill, NJ.

“The Dovells did many tours with Dick Clark in the ‘60s and in the ‘70s, including the Dick Clark Caravan of Stars. We were one of his favorite acts. Dick always called us when he needed a high energy act. He called us the Bowery Boys. We were on the Dick Clark tour that pulled into Dallas at 7 a.m. the day President Kennedy was shot. We were just blocks from the shooting, and of course, our show that evening was cancelled.”

 

www.thedovells.com

SOUND OF PHILADELPHIA PIONEERS KENNETH GAMBLE AND LEON HUFF
MOURN THE PASSING OF DICK CLARK

PHILADELPHIA -- "As fellow Philadelphians, we have admired Dick Clark and the 'American Bandstand' brand for many years,  as it promoted Philadelphia music around the nation,” said Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff in a joint statement. “Dick Clark was one of our inspirations for creating the ‘Sound of Philadelphia’ music brand. More importantly, we thank him for being one of the pioneers in promoting the Philly Dance and Music scene for the nation and world to enjoy. We send our sincere and deepest condolences to Dick Clark's family.”

www.gamble-huffmusic.com

www.tsopsoulradio.com

And so on with some other updates ...

MelodicRock Records to release

Rick Springfield - Working Class Dogs Tribute album

The big question is not 'why pay tribute to Rick Springfield?', but rather 'why did it take so long for someone to do so?' And when you consider some of the many other tribute albums that have hit the market in recent years, and with Rick's record of 17 Top 40 hits, it is a confounding question indeed. Thankfully all has been put right with this first ever tribute to one of melodic rock's most accomplished singer/musician/songwriters.

MelodicRock Records in association with Angelmilk Records and Fastlane Records is proud to bring you Working Class Dogs - A Tribute To Rick Springfield, set for release worldwide on June 15.
The album was compiled in two different stages, with the original tracks recorded under the supervision of the album's architect Shawn C. Lane and Fastlane Records and coming later, the second stage saw 5 more tracks added under the guidance of MRR's Andrew McNeice.


Combining both sets of tracks into the perfect running order gives the listener a truly wild ride and results in one of the best and most consistent tribute albums ever.
No one sounds like Rick Springfield. But many love to play his songs.
And this tribute to Rick Springfield brings together a whole range of artists to do just that. Many have admired the artist from afar, but several others have actually worked closely with Rick. Case in point is Rick's own live backing band appearing on the rocking track Kristina. And friend and long-time collaborator Jeff Silverman appears alongside AOR legend James Christian on the original RS/JS tune Right Planet Wrong World.


A true indication of a song's brilliance is that it will translate into other genres without losing any of its original charm. That's exactly what happens here.
All of the songs on this album have been updated and contemporized, but none of them have lost any of their original zest. You have the rapid fire punk/pop live feel on several tracks like Love Somebody, Living In Oz, Jessie's Girl; the polished and mature AOR of Stranger In My House (featuring Argentine AOR group Hardway with guest vocalist Thom Griffin) and Right Planet Wrong World; the heartfelt Beautiful You and even the country tinged What Kind Of Fool Am I (performed by Taylor Swift's touring guitarist/vocalist Paul Sidoti) . And of course the raw energy of Souls, I Get Excited, Carry Me Away and Affair Of The Heart.

Other artists involved include Eric Martin (Mr. Big vocalist), Chicago's finest 7th heaven, one man band Gary Schutt (Jeff Scott Soto band), CJ Szuter (The Szuters), Mitch Malloy, Eric Ragno, Vic Rivera (Poley/Rivera, Adriangale), Steve Newman and British guitarist Vinny Burns (Ten, Burns Blue).


Great performances are needed of course, but at the heart of the matter are some of the best songs Rick Springfield has ever written. This tribute album has something for all Rick fans, no matter what the era. And what other tribute album can boast the center of attraction giving it his seal of approval.

Rick Springfield: "What a cool compilation. I like the song choices and the versions still retain a lot of the original vibe, but have definitely been updated. These versions are a lot more like how we now play the songs live. Great work everyone!"



Track Listing (Artist/Title):

01) Waltham - Light Of Love
02) American Anthem - Jessies Girl
03) Handsome Devil - Love Somebody
04) Gary Schutt - Carry Me Away
05) CJ Szuter - I Get Excited
06) The Meddling Kids - I've Done Everything For You
07) Tom Cinefro & The Rick Springfield Band - Kristina
08) Eric Martin & Vic Rivera - Souls
09) Hardway w/Thom Griffin - Stranger In My House
10) James Christian & Jeff Silverman - Right Planet Wrong World
11) 7th Heaven - Affair Of The Heart
12) Steve Newman & Vinny Burns - Human Touch
13) Brand New Machine - Calling All Girls
14) Keith LuBrant - Rock Of Life
15) Paul Sidoti - What Kind Of Fool Am I
16) Mitch Malloy & Vinny Burns - Tear It All Down
17) Barely Pink - Don't Talk To Strangers
18) Fig - Wasted
19) Clay Howard - Beautiful You
20) Endway - Living In Oz

Audio samples at:
www.MelodicRock.com


Working Class Dogs will be available worldwide June 15 via all your favourite melodic rock outlets, including all those advertised here on www.melodicrock.com  It will also be available to order via your favourite US retailers thanks to Alliance Entertainment (www.aent.com).

Any US retailers looking for wholesale orders can contact Alliance. Please contact Mark Groshong at +1 954 255 4000, extension 1082, or by email at mark.groshong@aent.com.
In Europe/Scandinavia the album is being distributed by Cargo Records. Contact John Dryland for orders at: John@cargorecords.co.uk

You can also order direct from MelodicRock Records. And here's the bonus. Those that do will have the album shipped out a week or so early, so you'll be the very first to get a copy - PLUS - if you pre-order the album here, you will get an e-mail with a link to THREE additional exclusive bonus tracks! Those are:

BT - The Vague - Love Is Alright Tonight
BT - American Heartbreak - Human Touch
BT - Jeremy - Speak To The Sky


These Bonus Tracks will be sent out next week to all pre-orders. So what are you waiting for - pre-order right now via a PayPal link! ($15.00 + $5 shipping - airmail to anywhere worldwide!)
Ordering details and Paypal link can be found over at:
www.Melodicrock.com

xx 

New interview with Europe's Joey Tempest at Rocktopia, featured in Fireworks magazine

Rock writer Carl Buxton, recently conducted a very good interview with Joey Tempest, frontman with the very rejuvenated Europe, on the eve of the Swedish rockers releasing their latest album, the excellent sounding 'Bag of Bones.'

Editor's note - Review of the album is coming!

The interview is a main feature in the melodic rock magazine Fireworks, also available via Rocktopia.
Carl does an excellent job and the nice, lengthy interview reads well, go here to check it out for yourself:
http://www.rocktopia.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2113:fireworks-magazine-online-51-interview-with-joey-tempest-of-europe&catid=903:fireworksmagazine&Itemid=103



TOUCHSTONE OFFER FREE DOWNLOAD





'Joker In The Pack - Live at High Voltage'

Modern progressive rockers Touchstone give away free live track exclusively through their Facebook page.
www.facebook.com/touchstonemusicuk

UK modern progressive rockers TOUCHSTONE have announced an exclusive promotion on their Facebook page where they are currently giving away a special live version of 'Joker In The Pack', recorded at the inaugural High Voltage Festival in 2010.

The track, which has always been crowd favorite in the band's live set, is now available to download for free for a limited time only in celebration of the worldwide re-release of their entire back catalogue by SPV/Steamhammer this Spring.


'Joker In The Pack - Live at High Voltage' is just one of the bonus live tracks recorded at the festival which feature on the digi-pack re-issues of Wintercoast and the band's debut album Discordant Dreams, along with exclusive new artwork by guitarist Adam Hodgson.

Head to the TOUCHSTONE free download app here to download your copy:
http://www.facebook.com/touchstonemusicuk/app_364167486958516

For more information follow TOUCHSTONE here:
http://www.facebook.com/touchstonemusicuk
http://www.touchstonemusic.co.uk


The Messiah of great Heavy Rock music is back:
JORN to release “Bring Heavy Rock To The Land” on Frontiers in June

 Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of a brand new JORN studio album : "Bring Heavy Rock To The Land" on June 1st in Europe and June 5th in North America.


Following a three year silence since the release of "Spirit Black", JORN unleashes upon the world yet another original studio album "Bring Heavy Rock To The Land": another slab of classic Hard Rock with Metal elements! "I think this album follows a similar JORN-tradition like those before, more Heavy Rock oriented than Metal" says Jorn "But as usual it's not one musical expression all the way through the album, but a variety of musical landscapes within the categories of Rock and Metal".

 A winning formula should not change, so Jorn has again worked with Tommy Hansen at Jailhouse Studios in Denmark, who mixed the album, ensuring the right edge to the rich guitar and vocal sound that is now trademark to all JORN releases. The lineup sees the return of Jimmy Iversen on guitar who also appeared on "Spirit Black". The pairing with Tore Moren works really well and gives Jorn's sound the usual depth and solidity.

As usual, in addition to the original material, Jorn offers some interesting covers. This time Masterplan’s "Time to Be King" and Christopher Cross’ "Ride Like The Wind" are the ones to get the Jorn treatment. "When we wrote "Time To Be King" I heard a different and more rock oriented arrangement in my mind" tells Jorn, "so after the Masterplan album was released I couldn't stop thinking about how it would sound if it was recorded with this other arrangement. I don't know which one's better, I have ended up liking both versions. As to Christopher Cross, I have always loved "West Coast" oriented music and bands like 10cc, Pages, Santana, Little River Band, Eagles and so on. So I thought "Ride Like The Wind" would be a good song to do Jorn style. Saxon also released a version of this song in the 80's, and the arrangement we made ended up beeing a mix between the original version and Saxon's. It's also a fun song to sing and play".


 Jorn Lande’s strong and diverse voice and solid songwriting skills have now become legendary in the Hard Rock world. In a career spanning over close to 40 album releases, as frontman for Ark and Masterplan, in addition to featuring on spectacular projects such as Nostradamus The Rock Opera, Beyond Twilight "The Devil’s Hall of Fame", Tobias Sammet’s "Avantasia" and Ayreon.
 "If you buy a Jorn album today, you know what you will get" states Jorn Lande. You are guaranteed to get your adrenaline going with the riveting sound that has solid roots in classic hard rock/heavy metal music, such as Dio, Black Sabbath, Rainbow and Whitesnake.
“Bring Heavy Rock To The Land” will include the following songs: My Road; Bring Heavy Rock To The Land; A Thousand Cuts; Ride Like The Wind; Chains Around You; The World I See; Time To Be King; Ride To The Guns; Black Morning; I Came To Rock; Live And Let Fly (bonus track).

The title track "Bring Heavy Rock To The Land" (Click here to listen to the sample)

will be released as a single worldwide on May 14th and can be exclusively listened to in streaming on the Frontiers Records webradio www.frontiers.it/webradio - A videoclip for the song is in the works and will be directed by Thomas Tjäder (Pretty Maids, In Flames). 

According to Jorn: "The title track has really a strong Jorn trademark. It was a natural choice for a title track, I felt the same about "Lonely Are The Brave" back in 2008. Sometimes one song's got the magic and you just know it. "Bring Heavy Rock To The Land" is such a song and regardless of how the whole album is evaluated by critics, I feel that this song will live on and become an essential Jorn classic !"

 Jorn will appear live in selected shows in Europe during the summer.

JORN band line up is: Jorn Lande: vocals
 Willy Bendiksen: drums
 Nic Angileri: bass
 Tore Moren: guitar
 Jimmy Iversen: guitar

 Weblinks:
www.jornlande.com

Sorry folks, wanted to add more here today, but ran out of time ...
Enjoy the rest of your week.

News Update for Wednesday April 18th, 2012

Hi folks,

Well, what do you know, we have a winner in the MasterGuitarClass.net giveaway!

Congratulations go to Maxime Carbonneau, who was first to send in for the one years full membership to GuitarMasterClass.net online tuition giveaway!

Excellent!

I love it when my contacts have the opportunity to offer something in a giveaway, doesn't happen very often but every now and then.

My thanks to Maxime for your support and readership of Chambers of Rock, and of course to http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ for their generous giveaway.

Well, enjoy the rest of the week, cheers folks,

Al

Official Statement from MATT SORUM About Guns N' Roses and the Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame Induction

OK, now, here's a response from another Gunner from Guns 'n' Roses, over to Matt Sorum!

“Dear Friends and Fans of Guns N’ Roses,

I am releasing this statement to bring closure to the night’s events at the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame, and to all things Guns N’ Roses. This will alleviate numerous press statements and interviews about the subject, which I have already addressed on my Twitter.

In these last few months since getting notice about being inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall Of Fame, many emotions and feelings have gone through my head and heart, as well as the original five members of GN'R: Axl, Slash, Duff, Izzy and Steven. I was also chosen to be inducted, along with Dizzy Reed.

It was slightly awkward for me in some ways knowing some fans have the original five in their hearts for a reunion. I chose to say to Slash and Duff, ‘Please have Steven play, and let me know what you would like me to do.’


Two days before the event. Axl made his statement known. And it was apparent he wouldn't be attending. In respect to him, that is his decision and should be honored. Also, Izzy declined. So I suggested Slash call Gilby, who was left out of the proceedings. Gilby was a member of the band and contributing to the ‘Use Your Illusions’ World Tour, which took us around the globe for three years, as well as playing guitar on ‘Spaghetti Incident’ and ‘The Live Era’ albums. It felt like the right thing to do.

In fairness to the rest of the original line-up and myself, we decided to go ahead and attend. This is an honor that is once in a lifetime and couldn't be missed, especially for fans of the band. To us, it was honoring them as well. Regarding playing live, we agreed that we would share the stage together, joined by Myles Kennedy as guest singer, who did a fine job filling big shoes. Steven graciously offered ‘Brownstone’ and played two other ‘Appetite ...’ tracks, and I sang and joined him near the kit on ‘Paradise City.’

It felt perfect for all involved.

In my speech, I made references to drugs and Steven being dismissed from the band, in which I referred to, "How could someone be fired from Guns N’ Roses for doing too many drugs??"

It was meant to be light-hearted. But knowing the struggles Steven has endured all these years. I felt I needed to clarify that Steven was onstage, healthy, and ready to rock.

It is well known that the rest of the band has endured addiction and alcoholism and at this point in our lives, we are all healthy and sober.


Not to make light of drugs and alcohol…we were all full-blown addicts when the band split. What started out as a party and what we believed was part of the makeup of the band turned on all of us in the end.

Many years of soul searching and reconnecting with our inner selves have brought glorious gifts: Velvet Revolver with millions of records sold and a Grammy, Steven with his new band, and more. We are now all playing music and making records on our own that is truly what we love, before any of the business of music came into play. The music has always been the passion, before anything else.

Stevens’s passion for GN’R is something that no one can explain but him: it’s a true love gone, but never forgotten. How many people have felt that in their lifetime?

I told Steven and the rest of the guys the night of the Induction that night was for them and what they created on the streets of Hollywood, and it can never be taken away. The music will live on. And that's what counts. Not about who was there at the Induction. That the music will always be theirs and no can ever take that away.

Also, I have much respect for my former band, The Cult. And all the musicians I have played with over the years. They have all taught me so much.

I also need to thank my dearest and closest confidante, Ace Harper, who is my fiancée' and has made me a better man. She has walked beside in times of darkness, and has been there for me when all the stage lights and backstage parties were over.

This is where life is for all of us now survivors of a Rock & Roll era you will never see the likes of again: Married men Slash with two wonderful boys, Duff with two beautiful girls, Steven happy with a beautiful wife.

Life is good, my friends…we are alive! God Bless the fans of GN'R.

Long Live Rock N Roll,

Matt Sorum

(GN’R: “Use Your Illusion 1 and 2,” “The Spaghetti Incident,” “The Live Era")

Official website:
http://mattsorum.com/ 

And then ...

Axl makes fresh statement regarding his non-appearance at Hall of Fame

This from the official Guns 'n' Roses website, as Axl Rose makes a response after the whole event ...

“To: Cleveland, Ohio, Guns N’ Roses Fans and everyone who’s shown support for my decision regarding the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.


“I seriously didn’t plan on or expect the overwhelmingly positive response and public support for my decision regarding the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. With such a generous outpouring of solidarity from fans, media outlets, writers and other artists, I’m truly humbled, blown away and unbelievably relieved! To be honest, I thought it would go the other way and was just hoping to weather the storm. As I said, I sincerely didn’t want to disappoint anyone. It gets old being the outlaw even if ‘it’s only rock and roll’.


“It took a lot of focus and soul-searching to be sincere and informative while making a genuine effort to be somewhat diplomatic. We made, what I feel, are real efforts to learn about the Hall and the Board, spoke as I said with the president and various members, and though I inducted Elton John and Bernie Taupin in ‘94 saying something to the effect of, ‘I’m learning what the Hall’s about…’


“I still don’t exactly know or understand what the Hall is or how or why it makes money, where the money goes, who chooses the voters and why anyone or this Board decides who, out of all the artists in the world that have contributed to this genre, officially ‘rock’ enough to be in the Hall?


“This isn’t an attack. These are genuine issues I don’t have enough verified information on to have more than rough ideas. Certainly not enough information to make any judgments about.


“I would like to apologize to Cleveland, Ohio for not apologizing to them beforehand for not attending [the ceremony] in their city. I think they know how much I genuinely love performing there. Cleveland does in fact rock!


“Now that the smoke’s cleared a little, any desperate, misguided attacks have been just that, a pathetic stab at gossip, some lame vindictiveness, the usual entitlement crap, he’s obsessed, crazy, volatile, a hater. I once bought a homeless woman a slice of pizza who yelled at me she wanted soup. We got her the soup. You can get your own.


“Again: HUGE thanks to the fans and to everyone for the incredible public support. My congratulations to the other artists inducted. And my apologies to the city and people of Cleveland, Ohio. I hope you’ll forgive me and we hope to see you again soon!


“Keep rockin’,


Axl"


“Unlike my open letter to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, Guns N’ Roses Fans and Whom It May Concern this was written for GN’R’s official website, Facebook account and my personal Twitter account and not intended as a press release. If anyone does choose to pick this up as has been done previously I’d appreciate if you’d run in full including this paragraph so as not to give a partial picture, have things taken out of context or to imply or inadvertently give the impression this was intended for other outlets.


“Thanks in advance. Peace.”

Isn't the guy unbelieveable?!

Official weblink:
http://www.gunsnroses.com/

Van Halen Announce North American Summer Tour Dates

Van Halen has just announced 18 new tour dates, which start July 7th in Uncasville, CT and end August 12th in Cincinnati, OH. Their 2012 tour is in support of their latest album, “A Different Kind Of Truth”.

Jul 07 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena
 Jul 09 – Hampton, VA – Hampton Coliseum
 Jul 11 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center
 Jul 13 – East Rutherford, NJ – IZOD Center
 Jul 15 – Baltimore, MD – 1st Mariner Arena
 Jul 17 – Rochester NY – Blue Cross Arena
 Jul 19 – Detroit, MI – Joe Louis Arena
 Jul 21 – London, ON – John Labatt Centre
 Jul 24 – Toledo, OH – Huntington Center
 Jul 26 – Grand Rapids, MI – Van Andel Arena
 Jul 28 – Cleveland, OH – Quicken Loans Arena
 Jul 31 – Fort Wayne, IN – Allen County Memorial Coliseum
 Aug 02 – Columbus, OH – Schottenstein Center
 Aug 04 – Knoxville, TN – Thompson-Boiling Arena
 Aug 06 – Memphis, TN – FedEX Forum
 Aug 08 – Birmingham, AL – BJCC Arena
 Aug 10 – Greenville, SC – BI-LO Center
 Aug 12 – Cincinnati, OH – US Bank Arena

For the complete list of all the remaining dates for 2012, visit our tour page here:
http://www.vhnd.com/2012-tour/.

Weblinks:
http://www.vhnd.com
http://www.van-halen.com/

Chris Squire and Steve Hackett release SQUACKETT

Yes and ex-Genesis man unite

SQUACKETT
Album: “A Life Within A Day”
Release date: Tuesday, May 29th, 2012.

Limited edition 7” vinyl single to be release on April 21st for International Record Store Day.

Esoteric Antenna are pleased to announce the release of the hugely anticipated album by SQUACKETT, the collaborative project between two legends of Progressive Rock, Chris Squire and Steve Hackett.

With progressive rock (in its many forms) now seemingly more popular than ever a collaboration from members of two the the godfathers of the genre is hugely exciting. Chris Squire has appeared on every YES album and is widely regarded as one of the most influential bass guitarists of all time. Now an established solo artist, Steve Hackett first came to prominence as the guitarist with Genesis. He was in the band from 1970 to 1977 and played on six studio albums and three live albums before leaving to concentrate on his solo career.

The two met when Chris Squire was working on a solo album and needed some guitar parts. Chris was put in touch with Steve and through these sessions the idea for SQUACKETT was born. Over four years in the making, the “Squackett” album is very much more than the sum of its parts. “It was very much about a bunch of pals swapping notes and anecdotes,” says Hackett “I would say if people are looking for uncountable time signatures, in the main that’s not what this album holds. I think the songs are more simple and direct.”
“It has a flavour to it that is reminiscent of a few things from different artists,” says Squire. “There is some clever prog rock stuff in there, some jazzy bits but there are parts that have vocal harmonies like Crosby, Stills and Nash”

Album tracklisting is as follows:

1. A Life Within a Day
2. Tall Ships
3. Divided Self
4. Aliens
5. Sea of Smiles
6. The Summer Backwards
7. Storm Chaser
8. Can't Stop the Rain
9. Perfect Love Song

The album will be released in the following formats - Standard CD - EANTCD 1002, Limited and Numbered Vinyl Edition - EANTLP 1002, Limited Edition 2 Disc Deluxe Edition (with hardback cover & 5.1 surround bonus disc) - EANTCD 2002.

On April 21st the band will release a limited edition 7" vinyl single to tie in with International Record Store Day (www.recordstoreday.com).
The single will be "Sea of Smiles" (single edit) b/w "Perfect Love Song" and Cat number is EANTS 1001

Official artist link:
http://www.hackettsongs.com/

Five years of waiting for CIRCUS MAXIMUS new masterpiece album “Nine” to be released in worldwide June on Frontiers

Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of the anticipated third album from Norwegian Progsters CIRCUS MAXIMUS entitled "Nine" on June 1st in Europe and June 5th in North America.

Five years after the successful release of the concept album "Isolate", this time Circus Maximus are back with a strong and mature cd. "A lot happened in our personal lives during the past few years ", explains drummer Truls Haugen. "Three of us had kids, plus we also had a several bumps in the road with the production. So it has not exactly been a joyride, but it feels great to finally be done, and after all this time we are ready to unleash our new monster!"

Circus Maximus spent anyway their time also working hard to further refining their sound. With “Nine” they are poised to take their place alongside the upper echelon of Progressive Metal bands. The band’s musical formula is not easy to accomplish – take jaw dropping musicianship, add a singer like Michael Eriksen with a voice from heaven and toss it together with hooks, anthemic melodies and enough groove and heavy riffing that really gets into your head.

For this new record the band presents the best of both worlds – offering their most melodic and at the same time heaviest moments of their repertoire, with class and maturity which is really from another world. “The majority of the material on the new record was written by Mats Haugen and he has taken the music to a kind of simpler and more accessible approach, yet kept the progressive elements and the "nerve" that is Circus Maximus” says Truls Haugen. “We're actually more melodic and heavier on this new record than we've ever been”.

The re-defining sound, the songwriting and the clever production, highlights the band as one of the leading, original Progressive-Metal band around. “Nine” is an absolute contender for Top Album of the year, transcending the boundaries and subgenres of Hard Rock music!

“Nine” will include the following tracks: Forging; Architect Of Fortune; Namaste; Game Of Life; Reach Within; I Am; Used; The One; Burn After Reading; Last Goodbye.

“Reach Within” will be released as a single worldwide on April 27th and can be exclusively listened in streaming on the Frontiers Records webradio www.frontiers.it/webradio - A videoclip for the song is in the works.



Circus Maximus will appear live in some selected shows in the summer before launching a full scale tour in support of the new album. “We will definitely represent this album live to the whole World” concludes Truls Haugen, “We will do more live shows and more touring than ever and we really cant wait to get back on the road!”

CIRCUS MAXIMUS is:
Michael Eriksen - Vocals
Lasse Finbråten - Keyboards
Mats Haugen - Guitars
Truls Haugen - Drums
Glen Cato Møllen - Bass

Weblinks:

http://www.circusmaximussite.com/

http://www.frontiers.it/

News Update for Tuesday April 17th, 2012

Hello folks, sorry for lack of update yesterday, I was sick as a dog for some reason. Rough day ...

Another sign of getting old maybe, who know why we get sick sometimes?! Bummer!

Anyway, enough on that, on with the news ...
Sorry, one last thing ... Don't forget about this month's giveaway, FREE online guitar tuition for a year, through www.GuitarMasterClass.net details at the end of today's news.

Cheers, Al

Saxon - New Live Album Fan-Package!

British heavy metal rockers Saxon, who released the excellent 'Call To Arms' album late last year and supported it with a worldwide tour, are about to release a live album and DVD package recorded during the tour.
This update via the bands newsletter:

Strictly limited, this exclusive package contains the "Best Of Wacken" DVD, a double audio CD recorded live in Glasgow (2011) on the Call To Arms tour, plus the full and complete Saxon W:O:A performances from 2004/2007/2009 - each on a separate DVD and, a Saxon flag.

The real surprise is that 10 'Golden Tickets' are randomly included in the box sets, which will allow the 10 lucky winners to visit any Saxon concert in any city around the world (excluding festival appearances).

'Silver Tickets' giving access to special online content are for the remaining boxes so there are no losers - only winners.

SAXON "Heavy Metal Thunder - Live - Eagles Over Wacken" (UDR 0104 BOX)

• DVD 1: Best Of W:O:A (2004/2007/2009)
• Double CD: Glasgow Live, Recorded On The Call To Arms World Tour, April 14th, 2011
• DVD 2: W:O:A 2004 - full show
• DVD 3: W:O:A 2007 - full show
• DVD 4: W:O:A 2009 - Fan’s Choice Setlist - full show
• Saxon - Heavy Metal Thunder - W:O:A flag
• “Golden Ticket” / “Silver Ticket”

Preorder NOW online at:

http://www.udr-music.com/index.php/shop
https://store.digitalstores.co.uk/saxon/

SAXON - CALL TO ARMS - ONGOING WORLD TOUR 2012

22.04.2012   BR   São Luís - Metal Open Air
28.04.2012   DE   Dortmund - Rock in den Ruinen
23.05.2012   BE   Antwerp - Lotto Arena *
24.05.2012   NL   Kerkrade - Arena *
26.05.2012   UK   Hammersmith - Apollo *
08.06.2012   UK   Hertfordshire - The Forum / Pre Download Warm-up Show
09.06.2012   UK   Donington - Download Festival
16.06.2012   DK   Copenhagen - Copenhell Festival
06.07.2012   SE   Gävle     Getaway Rock Festival
30.07.2012   NL   De Veenhoop - Veenhoop Festival
02.08.2012   DE   Wacken - Wacken Open Air
03.08.2012   DE   Geiselwind - Bike & Music Weekend
04.08.2012   CH   Sursee - Magic Night Of Rock Festival

* with JUDAS PRIEST

More dates to follow!

Call To Arms review:

http://chambersofrock.blogspot.com/2011/12/saxon-call-to-arms-album-review.html

Saxon 'Call To Arms tour' live review:

http://chambersofrock.blogspot.com/2011/10/saxon-live-at-blondies-detroit-gig.html

Official website:www.saxon747.com

X-UFO band releasing live album and announce UK live dates

X-UFO may not perhaps feature some of the long term members of UFO and in fact only three of the four players, have played alongside Phil Mogg in UFO, the only always present member of the band at any time.

Danny Peyronel (Keyboards / Vocals), perhaps has the greatest claim in X-UFO, as he featured alongside Phil Mogg, Michael Schenker, Andy Parker and Pete Way on the 'No Heavy Petting' and live 'On With The Action' album releases.

Anyone that has followed guitarist Laurence Archer (Stampede, Grand Slam) though, will know that the man has been a Michael Schenker inspired player for many years and he played on the 'High Stakes and Dangerous Men,' 'Lights Out In Tokyo' and 'Live TNT (Which was 'Live in Texas '79' and 'Lights Out In Tokyo' albums reissued in a double album set.), which also featured, drummer Clive Edwards (Wild Horses, Uli Roth, Pat Travers).
The X-UFO band is rounded off by the very able Rocky 'Shades' Newton (Lionheart, M.S.G.) an extremely talented bassist / vocalist and songwriter.

The band have been playing many live shows around the UK and Europe to great responses and they are just releasing their latest album, this week, 'Vol. 1 - The Live Files.'

You can order this through the bands site here: http://www.x-ufo.co.uk/

Tracklisting is:

1. Let It Roll 
2. Natural Thing 
3. Highway Lady 
4. Back Door Man 
5. Can You Roll Her 
6. Love Deadly Love 
7. Armed & Ready 
8. She's The One 
9. Love To Love 
10. Only You Can Rock Me 
11. Rock Bottom 
12. Lights Out 
13. Doctor Doctor 

The band has also lined up live dates through the UK, which are captured on this here flyer:

Hopefully they'll make a trek over here to the US, I hear talk of a possible date or two in New York, but beyond that, we'll have to wait and see.

They do plan to revisit other European cities too, later this year.

To keep up with the band and further activities, go to:
http://www.x-ufo.co.uk/

Status Quo movie or documentary or both, what is going on?

Well, perhaps some confusion for sure for Status Quo fans everywhere, as most of us were in the understanding - From previous statements band members have made and postings at their website - that the band were going ahead filming a documentary with producer Alexa Morris with direction from Alan G. Parker, under the working 'provisional' title of 'Hello Quo!'
Going with this flyer too ...

Now according to the UK's Daily Telegraph - Indeed ...! - they are filming in Fiji ..., a movie, apparently titled 'Bula Quo!' which takes it's name from a Fijian greeting ...
Believe me, I began to check the date of the news story in case it originated on April 1st!

The Telegraph also reports that the two main Quo members, Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt will play themselves in the film, which is also due to feature Craig Fairbass - From UK soap opera Eastenders. - and Jon Lovitz (The Wedding Singer.).

It will also feature twelve of the bands songs throughout and writing and direction for the film will be from Stuart St Paul, whose previously been involved with the making of both 'Aliens' and 'Batman,' as well as music video's including Duran Duran's, 'Wild Boys.'

The full story in the Daily Telegraph can be read here:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/music/music-news/9206275/Status-Quo-launch-movie-career.html

Maybe I'm way off and the band are perhaps doing both, who knows?

Official band website:
http://www.statusquo.co.uk


 

Steve Vai's Digital Nation is Proud to Announce the Release of L.A. Session Maestro JP Cervoni's LA Sessions

"Guitarist JP Cervoni has the ability to grab your attention and hold it with the palm of his hand.
His captivating phrasing and endless blues-rock-fusion riffs shows just how free
he is in expressing his heartfelt music."
http://digital-nations.com/artists/jpcervoni/

JP Cervoni - LA Sessions

JP Cervoni has worked with some of the top players and producers that L.A. has to offer, such as Simon Phillips (The Who/Toto), Buddy Miles (Hendrix), Walfredo Reyes Jr. (Santana), Frank Gambale, Vinnie Colauta, Tony Levin, Ike Willis (Frank Zappa), Phil Soussan (Ozzy Osbourne), Jeff Babko, Marco Mendoza, Jimi Earl, Carl Verheyen and Steve Lukather just to name a few, in a career spanning decades.

In Los Angeles, you need to be what JP calls a "Chameleon" player, to be able to handle the various gigs and sessions that come your way, rock, funk, blues, R&B, country, latin ... It's all here and you need to be able to mold your style and sound to the required work on hand.

This album is a sample of various sessions recorded in the last few years with various budgets and studio environments and for a variety of artists, featuring Mike Hansen, (Steve Vai, George Lynch), Ira Black (Metal Church), Tim Bogart (Vanilla Fudge), Carmen Grillo (Tower of Power), Albert Wing & Ike Willis (Frank Zappa), Phill Soussan (Ozzy Osbourne), Joey Heredia, Brandino (Joss Stone), Arnold McCuller (Phil Collins), Vinnie Colaiuta, Tony Brock (Rod Stewart), Scott Henderson, Jude Gold (GIT Director), Kirk Convington (Tribal Tech), Simon Phillips, Michael Thompson, Vittorio Iue', Michael Kang, Duane Waider, Kenny Wilkerson (Nova Rex), and others.

JP explains how each session came about, what featured musicians where part of each sessions and what equipment he used on the iTunes PDF.

JP is currently finishing a production for a new young Asian/American rock band (Working with Simon Phillips) He is putting together a band with Ike Willis ( Frank Zappa ) and Mike Hansen ( George Lynch-Steve Vai ) that will perform Zappa music.

JP's Classic Rock documentary "Nova Rex: Ain't Easy Being Cheesy" has been included in The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.

Look out for JP Cervoni "Blues & Beyond Band" on Tour!

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/l.a.-sessions/id512116589 http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007MXLSC2/ref=dm_sp_alb?ie=UTF8&qid=1332799311&sr=8-7

Official artist website:

http://www.jpcervoni.com/

PAUL RODGERS ONLY UK CONCERT IN 2012

Bad Company and former Free frontman Paul Rodgers has announced that he will be playing his only UK concert this year on Thursday May 31st in Chichester, West Sussex at The Venue.

Joining Rodgers on the bill will be Deborah Bonham and her Band who will be performing songs from their new album.

Two children's groups from the Chichester Music Academy who work closely with the charity, will open up the evening. All of the proceeds from the will go to The Racehorse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre, a self funded Charity.

The Racehorse Sanctuary and Re-homing Centre involves itself with kids in many ways, including introducing autistic children to the horses at the Centre and providing performing opportunities to young musicians at the Racehorse Sanctuary Charity Concerts throughout the year.

Tickets are limited for this show and available only by emailing info@deborahbonham.com for booking information

Doors and Bar open 6-11.30pm, Showtime 7-10.30pm

Ticket Prices £30 standing and £50 seated

The Racehorse Sanctuary, Bridgehill Farm, Thakeham Road, Coolham, West Sussex RH13 8QD
www.racehorsesanctuary.org Registered Number 1117361

 

JOHN TAGLIERI HITS JACKPOT WITH LUCKY #9

(April 2012 - Hanson, MA) Over the course of the past decade, singer / songwriter, John Taglieri has made a name for himself in AOR, Americana and modern rock circles.  Striking again with his ninth release, Lucky #9, Taglieri has upped the stakes dramatically with this six song EP, from the driving chorus of opening track, and first single, "Losing Me" to the mid tempo power balladry of "Without You" straight through to the acoustic driven closer, "Not Gonna Be My Life."
Co-Produced by Lee J. Turner (Darius Rucker, Jewel, Leann Rimes, Bo Bice, etc) who also handles all the keyboards on the release, This is the first release coming out of Taglieri's new Dawg Pound Studios. Aside from the keyboard parts, John once again performed every instrument on the release. Writing both alone and with co-writers in Nashville and New Jersey, the EP is full of modern rock tinged with modern country flavor. Written from the heart, the songs speak of everyday life. The songs show a new growth and maturity in both their writing and in Taglieri's production skills.

“I approached this EP a little differently,” says John. “Being my ninth release, I think I am more in tune with what I wanted to say as an artist. I wrote songs that really meant a lot to me right now in life and tried to tell stories that would connect. Using my new studio and working with Lee again was awesome as well. There was a great vibe throughout the whole recording process. I'm very proud of 'Lucky #9', and I hope people enjoy it.”
'Lucky #9' releases on April 17 through Leap Dog Music in digital format only and will be found on all of your favourite websites including iTunes, eMusic, AOL and more.

Official website:http://johntaglieri.com/

And finally ....

Folks, are there no aspiring guitarists out there looking for a little extra guidance?!

I cannot believe NO ONE, not one single person has dropped me an email wanting to get FREE online guitar tuition, for a FULL year, did I mention it's for FREE?

This will only go to one lucky individual, but in case you somehow missed the post before and my reminder the day after, here's those details again, thanks to those wonderful people at GuitarMasterClass.net!

"April Guitar Master Class and Chambers of Rock Giveaway"

Hey folks, want to learn how to play guitar online?
No catch, the folks at GuitarMasterClass.net simply want to make this really easy for you to win, but only for ONE person only, yes really!

No question to answer, honest and no catch!

Simply send me an email to alun_williams@comcast.net with the subject line saying: "I want the lessons!" and enter to win 1 FREE year of full access to Guitar Master Class - online guitar instructional web site and music community.

Details about the prize:

 GuitarMasterClass.net is a dreamworld essentially for guitarists or aspiring guitarists who are looking to learn more, start from scratch or ..., well, just go and check the site out and you'll see what I am talking about.

Yes indeed, Chambers of Rock and www.GuitarMasterClass.net are pleased to be able to offer, ONE very lucky reader of 'Chambers of Rock' a years subscription at GuitarMasterClass.net as the prize.

This is something that would normaly cost you $110 (USD) for the year, but it's coming up for grabs, right here at Chambers of Rock during the month of April!

Rules are simple, be the first reader to email me, saying "I want the lessons!" and you could be the lucky winner and who knows, future rock guitar hero!!

Good luck and have a great week, cheers, Al