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Monday, July 5, 2010

Rock News for Monday 5th July, 2010

As you can see folks, the weekend has kept me busy and away from the site, so playing catch up again, although as is usual during the summer months, there's never too much new, news and all the artists are trying to hold things together with their huge summer tours. Some of which of course are great!
Enjoy your summer folks and where I can share updates I certainly will. :)


AMERICA, CHICAGO & PETER FRAMPTON TO TOUR AUSTRALIA THIS OCTOBER & NOVEMBER

Andrew McManus Presents is proud to announce that America, Chicago and Grammy Award winner Peter Frampton will be touring Australia for an unforgettable night of classic rock’n’roll favourites this October and November with tickets on sale from Wednesday 30th June.

"I can't wait to get back down under and visit with my Aussie fans and play some oldies as well as some new music. It's been too long and I promise to make this a habit for the future. It will be fantastic playing shows with Chicago and America” said Peter Frampton.

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL TOUR DATES: AMERICA, CHICAGO and PETER FRAMPTON

October 2010
10/27 - Sydney Entertainment Centre, Harbour Theatre TIX
10/29 - Wollongong, WIN Entertainment Centre TIX
10/30 - Brisbane, Riverstage TIX
November 2010
11/03 - Melbourne, Palais Theatre TIX
11/06 - Hunter Valley, Hope Estate TIX
11/07 - Canberra, AIS Arena TIX
11/09 - Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Theatre Mode TIX
11/12 - Perth, Pioneer Women’s Memorial Kings Park & Botanic Garden TIX

Tickets are on sale from 9am Wednesday 30th June through the above outlets. For exclusive pre-sale and premium tickets go to http://www.preferredseating.com.au/

 Shred Guitar Master PAUL GILBERT To Release 3rd Guitar Instrumental CD FUZZ UNIVERSE on SHRAPNEL RECORDS out AUGUST 3rd

HOLLYWOOD, CA (July 2, 2010) – Paul Gilbert unleashes his 3rd instrumental masterpiece on Shrapnel Records, August 3rd to the world. “FUZZ UNIVERSE is my third guitar instrumental album,” explains Gilbert. “Being a fan of pop music and rock bands, I am a reluctant convert into the art of instrumental rock music. But after touring with Joe Satriani’s G3, I witnessed firsthand the power of the electric guitar to take center stage and rock the audience. Playing my guitar-driven songs live was a blast! This discovery led to a huge increase in my touring as a solo artist. In the last couple of years, I've played nearly 150 shows all over the world, with my guitar leading the way.”

FUZZ UNIVERSE title is inspired by Gilbert being so immersed in the world of guitar it made him realize that he lives in a FUZZ UNIVERSE. “Every generation of guitar players has their own terminology for the rock guitar sound: Distortion, Overdrive, Gain, Crunch, Saturation, Drive etc. For me, the word is FUZZ”

Gilbert’s extraordinary talent of arranging/composing lends to the new music’s fresh melodies for songs that shows his true diversity and only in Gilberts words will you understand:

“On FUZZ UNIVERSE, I think I've taken a giant step closer to the ultimate rock guitar sound and playing of my dreams. I've used many of my signature techniques from RACER X and MR. BIG, but twisted them into new chords, grooves, and emotions.

As always, my influences are diverse and not what you might expect from a "heavy metal" artist. While I was writing the songs for FUZZ UNIVERSE, I was immersing myself in Bulgarian Female Choir music, Baroque lute and violin pieces, Johnny Cash songs about trains, cows, mules, and mining coal, the Bee Gees, and Ronnie James Dio. I mix all this into my head, and out came endless new ideas for my guitar to chew on.

After several months of being locked in my writing room, I gathered my touring band together and headed to the studio. Jeff Bowders played drums. Craig Martini played bass. Emi Gilbert (my wife) played keyboards. And I bent the guitar strings until I couldn't play anymore.

As usual, there are no dramatic stories here. No heroin overdoses, motorcycle accidents, celebrity divorces, or band-member boxing matches. The emotion, drama, and power are all in the music. That is the universe that I want to live in”

Paul Gilbert is regarded internationally as one of the greatest players in the industry. Starting his recording career with Shrapnel Records as a teenager in the late 80’s, Gilbert remains one of the most active guitarists from the original shred guitar scene. His rise to Platinum success includes a number one song with Mr Big, and cult status as founding member of the legendary and highly successful underground progressive metal band Racer X.
For more information click on http://www.paulgilbert.com/

And keeping with the guitarist theme ....

Humanity Thru Music - In Benefit of Fur & Feather Animal Sanctuary EBAY AUCTION NOW!!
**STEVE VAI - SIGNED IBANEZ and CUSTOM STAGE CLOTHES**
**BASS-MONSTER BLASKO from OZZY Signed ERNIE BALL BASS**
NEWLY ADDED TO ON-GOING EBAY AUCTION FOR

HOLLYWOOD, CA – (July 5, 2010) – Signed guitar and custom stage clothes from the legendary STEVE VAI and monster bassist BLASKO of OZZY OSBOURNE has been added to the eBay auction

Besides the love of music, rockstars have a soft spot for our four legged furry friends. With the help from so many artists and actors with their charitable donations of instruments and signed memorabilia, FUR & FEATHER ANIMAL SANCTUARY comes closer to breaking ground in the next year for the first fully solar and wind powered, no-kill animal sanctuary. The sanctuary will also provide the community with a low-cost animal clinic, education and cultural center.

Currently on the eBay auction block sits legendary ax-slinger STEVE VAI’S custom made silver outfit by famed rockstar couturier TERRI KING. It was worn on the Ultra Zone tour in the late 90's. Also STEVE VAI has signed a black IBANEZ up for auction with the thanks to the help of IBANEZ – With the help from Brian Ball of ERNIE BALL we also have a bass singed by OZZY OSBOURNE’S bassologist Rob BLASKO Nicholson – GO BID NOW!!!!!


Adding in the next week to the auction will be a signed Ibanez guitars one from PAUL GILBERT and a Schecter Diamond Series guitar signed by horror Icons TYLER MANE (Michael Myers / Halloween 1&2) and DEREK MEARS (Jason Voorhees / Friday the 13th). More items coming!!
Keep an eye out for additions of cool signed memorabilia from your favorite rockstars!! All items come with signed letters of authentication for your collection!

Did you know?
-Between four million and six million pets are euthanized every year because they are homeless.
- An animal in a shelter is killed every 1.5 seconds.
- Only one animal in 10 born in the U.S. gets a good home that lasts a lifetime.
- There is a direct correlation between animal abuse and neglect and child abuse and neglect.

FUR & FEATHER ANIMAL SANCTUARY is a 501(c)(3) that was organized exclusively for charitable, and educational purposes, more specifically for helping homeless and un-wanted animals with medical care, adoption in a no-kill safe environment.

For more information go to http://www.furfeather.org/ (almost finished) or visit them on Facebook now! Just search for Fur & Feather Animals Sanctuary and look for the happy Pit-bull ~ To donate to the cause use Paypal and email to donations@furfeather.org or email to get address to send checks.

Uriah Heep say thanks to US fans


Although British rockers Uriah Heep's USA tour started badly with some cancelled shows - Thanks to US immigration! - eventually it did happen, albeit just under 10 dates, it seems like it was a result for the band and they plan on coming back with hopefully, a more widespread tour that should take in both the USA and Canada.
See the message from the band here below from the bands website.

A big thanks goes to everyone that came to the USA concerts and saw us play. The tour has been a huge success, and a building block for more to come. I do apologize to all of you that could not see us with the cancelled shows, but the good news is they are going to re-schedule these on the next tour. I hope the next one goes further afield, so that we can play concerts to those of you that could not travel to the shows on this tour. The reception and response we have received haS been overwhelming, and we are looking forward to playing the USA and hopefully Canada more frequently.
‘Appy Days!
URIAH HEEP

And finally ....
Russian Rockers Pushking's new All-Star Album "The World as We Love It"


OK, this is an interesting piece indeed ... I have never heard of Russian rockers Pushking ...
That said, the list of who's who contributing to the album is without doubt 'impressive!'
Guessing this is one that should be checked out, there does seem to be significant amount of 'name' artists involved ...
Side note - This press release was published back in January 2010, I only just noticed it as a recent posting / plug at Joe Lyn Turners website: www.joelynnturner.com/
So, the album should now be available, I'm just plugging the original press release due to the interesting detail! Just check out all the names!!!

Russian Rockers Pushking Prepare All Star Album for Release

Gabe Reed confirmed that Russian rockers Pushking are putting the finishing touches on the on their new all star album entitled "The World As We Love It" and are working with mastering expert Tom Baker who has worked with Alice Cooper, Judas Priest, B.B. King, Ray Charles, Cher, Crazy Town, Marilyn Manson, Motley Crue, Velvet Revolver.
The album is produced by Fabrizio Grossi and the band was assisted in the enlistment of the album's many guest stars by entertainment attorney Gabe Reed.

The album will have 19 tracks:
Night Rider (vocal, guitar Billy Gibbons)
It'll be O.K. (vocal Billy Gibbons, guitar Nuno Bettencourt)
Blessing Traveller (vocal John Lawton, guitar Steve Stevens)
Cut the Wire (vocal Paul Stanley, guitar Stevie Salas)
God Made Us Free (vocal Graham Bonnet, guitar Dobro Al Perkens)
Head Shooter (vocal Joe Lynn Turner)
Heroin (vocal Jorn Lande)
I Believe (vocal Jeff Scott Soto)
I Love You (vocal Dan McCafferty)
'My Reflection after seeing the Schindler's List movie' (vocal Koha, guitar Steve Vai)
My Simple Song (vocal Dan McCafferty)
Nature's Child (vocal Udo Dirkschneider)
Open Letter to God (vocal Eric Martin)
Private Own (vocal Glenn Hughes, guitar Matt Filippini)
Tonight (vocal Glenn Hughes, guitar Joe Bonamassa)
Trouble Love (vocal Alice Cooper, guitar Keri Kelli)
Why Don't You (vocal Glenn Hughes, guitar Dobro Al Perkens)
Kukarracha (vocal: Joe Lynn Turner, Graham Bonnet, Eric Martin, Paul Stanley, Glenn Hughes, guitar Steve Lukather)
That’s All That Love Can Do (bonus-track)

The band main line up is:
Konstantin "KOHA" Shustarev - vocal, guitars
Andrey "DRUNIA" Kruglov - drums
Oleg "IVANICH" Bondaletov - keyboards
Dmitriy "MITYA" Losev - guitars
Roman "ROMA" Nevelev - bass
The Album is expected to be released in Spring 2010.
The bands website:

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Foreigner, Styx and Kansas live at DTE Energy Music Theatre, Detroit. MI




Foreigner, Styx and Kansas live at DTE Energy Music Theatre June 27th, 2010



 
 
 
 
 
 
 

You know, many die hard fans of these bands original line ups may say, ‘Why waste your time going to see them, when they’re not the full original acts?’
 
To a very small degree, there’s some truth to some of that applied to some bands touring the circuit, but sometimes certain acts can be revitalized by doing so.

Many fans also think it’s almost sacrilegious to go out like these bands do and the original members should be ashamed of themselves. This sadly, is a very ‘blinkered’ viewpoint if you ask me. There are many people who never got to see the original line ups due to say a fans age, so in that respect this then gives them the opportunity to see the music performed live ‘with’ at least one or more original members.

The truth of the matter is and simple facts, Foreigner have constantly changed over the years. Styx, well the original drummer died, Dennis DeYoung quit / was fired due to a health condition and the original bassist typically joins the band on stage for one track only each night. He also is HIV positive, but that’s another story. Kansas has also simply been through a number of changes over the years.
 
Kansas is a band that I personally have grown to enjoy more, since I relocated to the USA back in 2000. I’ve been fortunate to have seen the band before twice live and yes, they fall into the non-original line up bracket, as do all the acts playing tonight.

We unfortunately did not get to see Kansas’ set, as we fortunately got to meet with Foreigner in a meet and greet, which unfortunately crossed over with the time Kansas were onstage.
We did hear some of the classics though and Steve Walsh did sound good, as did the band behind him.
The set included, Point of Know Return, Hold On, Dust in the Wind, Fight Fire with Fire and Carry on Wayward Son.

 
Styx, quite the live band, who like Kansas I’ve grown to love more and more since being here and have seen them live many times now.

 
 
(Styx L-R, Ricky Phillips, James JY Young and Tommy Shaw live at DTE, June 2010 - Photo: Dave Noble. - Thanks Dave!)

They open with rocker ‘Borrowed Time’ and the huge holographic screens behind the band the full width of the back of the stage keep the audience equally entertained with images accompanying the tracks throughout the set.
The band then tease with snippets of ‘Mr. Roboto’ and ‘Rockin’ the Paradise’ before then coming back into ‘Borrowed Time’ and then quickly launch into ‘Grand Illusion.’
A great start and as always, the band looks like they’re having great fun.

 
 
(Styx - L-R, Lawrence Gowan, Tommy Shaw and Todd Sucherman - DTE June 2010. Photo: Dave Noble)


 
Tommy Shaw then gets into chat mode with the crowd, to roars of approval before they kick in ‘Too Much time on My Hands’ and the band are on great form. They are rockin’ at Pine Knob!

‘Lady’ next with Lawrence Gowan doing a great job here and then ‘Lorelei’ follows, meantime for those not in the pavilion, they are getting drenched! The heavens have opened and the rain is seriously coming down cats and dogs for real, thunder and lightning crashing around us all too.

Next a treat from Tommy Shaw’s Damn Yankees days with ‘High Enough.’ Excellent! The crowd is in heaven!

‘Suite Madame Blue’ is followed by ‘Foolin’ Yourself’ where original bassist Chuck Panozzo comes out to join the band.
 
James ‘JY’ Young takes lead vocals next for ‘Miss America’ and the band are really, clearly enjoying themselves.

Gowan then get his moment with the crowd where he kicks off a musical quiz, asking the crowd to guess and the sing the next line to some classic rock songs including, Led Zeppelin’s ‘Whole Lotta Love,’ Queen’s ‘Fat Bottomed Girls’ and Pink Floyd's ‘Another Brick In The Wall.’
The crowd has no trouble with this and Gowan says, well there’s no getting past you guys, so ‘Come Sail Away,’ as they launch another Styx classic to close their set.
They’re allowed one encore too and rock out with ‘Blue Collar Man.’ Thank you Styx, another great show!

 
So to Foreigner then ....

 
 
(Foreigner - L-R, Mick Jones, Michael Bluestein and Kelly Hansen at DTE June 2010. - Photo: Alun Williams)


Foreigner’s line up today features just one original founder member, but he is the guy who’s always written and produced things, Mick Jones who like myself, is originally from Portsmouth, England.
 
Mick has a talented bunch of guys backing him up these days though and Kelly Hansen (Vocals) has been onboard for the past 5 years and can certainly cover the Lou Gramm material admirably!

 
Jeff Pilson (Bass – ex-Dio and Dokken) has also been on board since just before Hansen joined, Thom Gimbel has been onboard since 1995, playing guitar, sax, flute and keys, the band is completed by keys man Michael Bluestein (Since 2008) and recently joined drummer Jason Sutter.

 
 
(Foreigner - L-R, Kelly Hansen, Jason Sutter, Jeff Pilson and Thom Gimbel - DTE June 2010. Photo: Alun Williams.)


The band starts rocking with ‘Double Vision’ before wasting no time keeping the momentum with ‘Head Games.’ Then it’s the classic ‘Cold as Ice,’ then the title track of the bands’ latest album ‘Can’t Slow Down’ which was accepted well. Encouraging start!
 

 
(Mick Jones - DTE June 2010. Photo: Alun Williams.)
 

 
(Foreigner's Jason Sutter - At back - Jeff Pilson and Thom Gimbel live at DTE June 2010. Photo: Alun Williams.)

 
Any, ‘Dirty White Boy’s’ here tonight is the question for the next classic Foreigner track and they really have open their set well.
These guys have always entertained in my eyes live, no big flashy light show – although the back drop screen was better than anything I’ve seen Foreigner have since the days of Foreigner ‘4’ tour.

 
Kelly Hansen then asks the crowd nicely, ‘… would it be OK to just play one more new song?’
Huge roar of approval, silly question Kelly and cue ‘the pop ballad single, ‘In Pieces.’
Bet the crowd wished they’d answered, ‘No!’ The track really does drops the pace here.
Slight distortion seemed a little apparent and the keyboards throughout the song were totally controlling here.
Kelly thanks the crowd for ‘… allowing us to play that. Now, I’ll hand you all over to Mick, the founder of the band! Mick Jones!’

 
Mick tells some story about how he came to write this next track so many years ago, after …, ‘perhaps indulging in one thing or another.’ Starrider starts with some nice flute work from the very talented Thom Gimbel and the huge screens back up the songs’ almost psychedelic like vibe with a modern psychedelia like effect. Mick is totally in his glory with this track, as he really gets to let loose on guitar somewhat more than he does anywhere else in the set.

 
Band introductions next from Mick, before Kelly guides us into ‘Feels Like The First Time,’ which has the crowd whooping and screaming with delight. There was some slight feedback midway into the song, but it passed.

 
The keyboards and drums provide a somewhat lengthy intro to next song ‘Urgent’ which also brings out Thom Gimbel again on brass now, with some fine sax work this time and this song is just great, how it builds and just grows.
The band then bring out members of a local youth choir from Rochester Hillls to join them on, ‘I Want to know What Love Is,’ nice touch guys.

 
 
(Kelly Hansen and Mick Jones - DTE June 2010. Photo: Alun Williams)

 
To close the set, ‘Hot Blooded’ with an intro I didn’t recognise and you’d never really guess where the song was going, but the screen behind really gave it away.
Mick is in rocking form to riff out here and plays an extended solo, which is great!
 

The band leave, but you know they can’t leave us hanging too long, I mean the crowd has loved the set.
The applause, screams and whistles bring the band back out for ‘Juke Box Hero,’ with a great accompanying video on the big screens, excellent!

I’d really looked forward to this show and was very glad to have finally made it!
Miss this triple bill at your serious loss!


Show rating:

 
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Friday, July 2, 2010

Rock News for Friday 2nd July, 2010

Saw a great show last night, The Scorpions with Cinderella opening ... Boy, were The Scorpions great!
Full report and pictures to follow on here soon.
To the news!

Whitesnake settles lawsuit, with show attendees ...

I can't and you can't possibly call these people that went to a Whitesnake show fans, when they took Whitesnake to court and sued them for suffering loss of hearing?! Unreal!?!
The bands will have to start writing disclaimers on their tickets now ....

When you go to a rock show, don't you realize it could be very loud?
Heck, I remember reading tales of fans who - stupidly - deliberately put their heads in the bass bins at shows until their ears bled?! What the ....??!
This was posted yesterday through Pollstar:

'A couple claiming that a 2003 Whitesnake show caused long-term hearing loss has been awarded a $40,000 settlement by the Massachusetts Appeals Court.

The suit was filed by Maryellen and Kevin Burns against Whitesnake, the promoter and venue owner, according to a report written by Noah Schaffer and published on the Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly news blog, The Docket.'
Full story here:

Toto's Mike Porcaro Honor Tour starts next week

(Picture from: www.stevelukather.net/)
Mabvuto Mavuto, Joseph Williams, Steve Porcaro, David Paich, Jory Steinberg, Steve Lukather, Joe Porcaro, Simon Phillips, Nathan East

Steve Lukather: "Toto are sounding AMAZING! Best Toto line up ever (aside from Mikey but Nate is awesome), the vocals are FAR the best ever in our history. Set list is a wam bam knock out 90 minutes+ so THIS will be great and fun."

In additional Toto related news ...

First 13 concerts new Lukather tour in November

Today Luke's management confirmed the first 13 concerts of Lukather's Alls Well That Ends Well tour that starts in November this year. Check out the info at the tour data section.

Soon, get A FREE Dio Download!

In keeping up the support of the 'Ronnie James Dio - Stand Up and Shout Concer fund,' to help promote the cause, the Dio website will be offering the fans the track of the same name in live format as a free download.
This from the Dio site:

'On July 8th, the live version of "Stand Up And Shout" from Dio will be the "Amazon Free Download Of The Day." Just go to Amazon.com on July 8th and download the song for free!'

Heart - 5 New songs available for download

In fact it's just two new songs and 3 live Heart classics ...

New songs available on iTunes and Amazon! [ 6/22/2010 ]

WTF + 4 available at iTunes
1. WTF
2. Sand
3. Barracuda (live at the Experience Music Project)
4. Alone (live at the Experience Music Project)
5. Crazy on You (live at the Experience Music Project)
$5.55

Sorry it's brief, but I've got to get to the day job folks! :)
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Thursday, July 1, 2010

Rock News for Thursday 1st July, 2010

Apologies for lack of news updates on Tuesday and Wednesday folks, the late news on Monday, was literally posted around 11.30pm Monday night, so maybe I should've called it the late, late news! ;-)

I did give you the Eddie Money live review though, so I hope that sufficed for you, a little!
I wasn't expecting Eddie to be as good as previous years, as each year he comes out you look and think, 'Well, no spring chicken here, what are we going to get?' Then he goes and puts in a really good performance, all things considered.
So, to the updates.

Scorpions cancels Columbus show but ..., inks new publishing deal with BMG

Sad to see and learn that last nights show in Columbus, Ohio for the Scorpions was cancelled.
Klaus Meine has apparently been suffering with a chesty cold and was told to rest by doctors.
Although there were no Scorpions playing and refunds are to be given, opening act Cinderella it seems saved the day, by offering to play a free show for rock fans there and pulled in local rockers American Dog to kick things off.
More details on that story here through Blabbermouth:
Apparently the Detroit show is still on, as their next gig.- I hope so, I'm supposed to be reviewing it! ;-)

Meantime for the band ... A new deal seems to have been struck on publishing rights with BMG for the three longest serving band members. Funny that, haven't they just told us they are retiring? Hmmm
Here's that

BMG Rights Management has signed an exclusive, comprehensive and long-term publishing deal with Scorpions band members Klaus Meine, Rudolf Schenker and Matthias Jabs.

The agreement includes the rights to the current album Sting in the Tail which has been the band’s highest new entry in the US Billbord charts in 20 years.
Commenting on the deal, BMG Rights CEO Hartwig Masuch says, “We are proud that we will be working closely with one of the most successful international rock bands and especially one which also has its roots in Germany, and we are confident that we can build a successful partnership.”


Scorpions manager, Peter F. Amend adds, “We believe that by signing with BMG, we have found a reliable and international partner who will help us exploit our musical works worldwide.“

The rock band, who come from Germany, have won the ECHO award for lifetime achievement and three World Music Awards.


Foreigner Joins NASCAR on Labor Day Weekend!


This Labor Day Weekend, rock and race cars will take over the Atlanta Motor Speedway as Foreigner headlines a pre-race concert prior to the second running of the track's Labor Day weekend NASCAR Sprint Cup Series night race on Sunday, Sept. 5.


Promo videos featuring Foreigner are currently available to view at the Atlanta Motor Speedway's website. A third video has just been added and all three can be seen by clicking on the linked image below.

Pre-race party passes for the Foreigner concert and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver introductions are available for just $49 and will provide fans with up-close, stagefront access for both events on Atlanta Motor Speedway's front stretch famed for NASCAR's closest finishes.
A limited number of pre-race party passes are available, so fans are encouraged to act quickly to ensure their exclusive access for the concert and driver introductions. Grandstand tickets are required for admission.

Currently touring to support their latest and 11th-career album, Can't Slow Down, Foreigner has sold more than 70 million albums in a 33-year career and has released 39 singles, including rock anthems, Double Vision, Hot Blooded, and Cold as Ice, among others. In addition, Foreigner hit, Feels Like the First Time is currently featured in Atlanta Motor Speedway's advertising campaign.
For more information, contact the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at (770) 946-4211, (877) 9-AMS-TIX, or visit http://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/

Eddie Van Halen on Lopez Tonight footage available

Guitar superstar Eddie Van Halen made a brief taped appearance on the June 24 edition of  "Lopez Tonight", comedian George Lopez's new talk show on TBS. The segment now can be viewed below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zr0zGRLD3zU&feature=player_embedded

Recently http://www.melodicrock.com/ reported that Van Halen's current line up Eddie, Alex, Eddie's son Wolfgang Van Halen and David Lee Roth, are working on a new studio album, most likely due in the first half of 2011.
A single is slated for release before the end of this year, all timing on these event is very patchy at best.
I guess keep checking www.vhnd.com/ for any other possible updates.

Johnny Winter "Live Through the '80s"DVD

To Be Released On August 24


"An extensive retrospective of the legendary guitarist in live performance, during what proved to be an incredibly prolific and successful decade."
- Andy Aledort, GUITAR WORLD

MVD Visual is proud to announce the release of Johnny Winter Live Through the '80s for North American distribution on August 24.

This DVD includes an incredible collection of official archival performance footage from around the world compiled from the original masters. It features 18 performances from various locations such as MTV Rock Influences '84 "Guitar Greats", Massey Hall (Toronto '83), Roskilde DRTV (Roskilde, Denmark '84), New Hampshire ('84), Sonet Studio (Bromma, Sweden '87), Piazza Duomo (Pistoia, Italy '88), and more. Intermixed with the live content is interview footage from various locations. This program is the definitive document of Johnny's career in the '80s, and is also the perfect companion to 2007's live DVD compilation, Live Through the '70s.

This DVD also includes rarely seen archival footage of Johnny riding his tour bus, talking candidly about his deep feelings for blues music, and relaxing backstage prior to a Swedish television appearance in 1987. Two songs are included from that performance: a rock-solid rendition of "Sound the Bell" (featuring subtle quotes from Freddie King's "Sen-Sa-Shun" and "San-Ho-Zay") and the hard-rocking shuffle that has become one of Johnny signature songs, "Mojo Boogie."

The final segment of the DVD features two absolutely scorching performances from the 1988 Pistoia Blues Festival in Italy: the extended slow blues, "Early in the Morning," and a lightening fast version of "Serious as a Heart Attack."

"For guitarists interested in learning from one of the true masters of blues and blues/rock music, Live Through the '80s provides an intimate and well-produced view of Johnny Winter's genius as an innovative and endlessly inventive player, offering enough guitar pyrotechnics to last a lifetime. And for music fans, it is simply a priceless collection of riveting performances from a true hero of electric blues guitar."- Andy Aledort, GUITAR WORLD

More details of the release can be found here:
http://www.seeofsound.com/p.php?s=MVD5037D
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Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Eddie Money (and Jesse Money) live at DTE Energy Music Theatre

Eddie Money (Jesse Money) live at DTE Energy Music Theatre – May 28th, 2010

(Eddie Money picture from Internet source with no credit given.)

Sorry for the delay in getting this review posted, but simply it was a case of having lost my review notes from the gig ... Don't ask! Anyway, here you go, the review.

Eddie Money is a name that has been around in the game for many a year and to simply be honest about it, he looks like he has too! Sorry Eddie but ... That said, even now, every year Eddie seems to still get the Pine Knob / DTE opening weekend gig of the summer season and often closes the season in September too.

While Eddie does look his years, he still has a great back catalogue of songs he always seems to have a great live backing band too and he can still sing them alright too. Admittedly he looks like he’s struggling to get around the stage during his sets, but he doesn’t give up … Eddie, lose the suit man, you’re a rock ‘n’ roller, not a stand up comic!

Over the last few years of catching the ‘Moneymaker’ live, he’s been introducing his daughter Jesse Money to his audience and each year she seems to do a little more, this year she’s Eddie’s opening act.

Sadly, we got to the venue a little late and missed most of her set, but I have to say two things, she looks good – and very pretty. Eddie, there's trouble! - fronting a band no problem and boy, can this girl sing! Watch out for her name going forward, I’m sure we’ll be hearing plenty from her in the future. She seems to lean towards a strong blues rock vibe generally.

Eddie then opens his set with ‘Two Tickets to Paradise’ and sure enough, he’s got Jessie in his backing band and the band sounds good, as does Eddie.
Next we get ‘I Think I’m In Love,’ which along with ‘Two Tickets …’ has really got the crowd up on their feet.
Eddie is always loved by the Detroit crowd.

Moving on, he includes a tribute to Motown legend – Well, it is a Detroit gig! – Smokey Robinson with ‘You Really Got A Hold On Me,’ which of course impresses here.
After a couple of older album tracks that didn’t seem that well known by the crowd, time for a new song.

Dedicated to the troops fighting for all causes that the USA supports globally, who are sent overseas to Iraq and Afghanistan. The song is called ‘One More Soldier’s Coming Home,’ which was co-written with local Detroit musician Greg Stryker.
Side note – Here’s a link to a You Tube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pUVoA6jILo
Great song and certainly got the attention and support of the crowd tonight.

Eddie asks next if anyone wants to take a trip with him down to Mexico … Didn’t really follow that, as next song is ‘Gimme Some Water (Cool, Cool Water)?’ Still the song’s another winner here.

He then cracks some jokes about having a drink since the Police took his license away, but now he’s got it back – Says this every year … - and goes on with, ‘but I’d better watch it though as my probation officer is in tonight …!’

Next is ‘Trinidad,’ a popular song with die hard Money fans and gets Eddie playing some Sax for us. Good one.
Then back to his banter with the crowd, about Detroit’s famous sons like Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels, Bob Seger and Kid Rock and asks to be considered as Detroit adopted son as he always gets such a great welcome here. The crowd clearly give their approval!

Then through some classics with ‘I Wanna Go Back’ and ‘Take Me home Tonight,’ before ‘Give a Little Bit of My Lovin’,’ ‘You Should be Sleeping’ and ‘(Ain’t Got) No Control.’

Throughout the evening, I’ve got to tell you that Eddie’s daughter Jessie is pretty much stealing the show!
She’s all over the stage, interacting with her Dad and she is clearly, one hot young lady that brings Eddie to tell her to, ‘Go and get some clothes on!’ She can move, sing and clearly is full of self confidence and the cameraman – for the venue’ video screens – can’t leave her alone either!

Next was ‘Wanna Be a Rock and Roll Star’ before he introduced the band in full.
I must add that Eddie’s band really were cooking tonight, on their game and especially Tommy Girvin’s guitar work, strong keys from Chris Grove and a solid rhythm section in Lee Beverley (Bass) and Glenn Symmonds (Drums).

So it seems as things get closer to that grand finale, it’s time for the Eddie Money hit juke box, as we get, ‘Walk on Water’ – Possibly my fav Eddie Money song. – then ‘Baby Hold On To Me,’ and ‘Where’s the Party?’
Unbelievable how Eddie just keeps going, as its clear the guy has got to be dying in that suit, even if he has lost the jacket!

Eddie then pulls out 2 local musicians to jam with him and the band, a lead vocalist Brandon Calhoon – Well known locally – and another guitarist, who’s name I didn’t catch?
They jammed a new song from Calhoon called ‘Detroit.’ Pretty good diversion before they closed the set.

A good night had by all and as I say, keep an eye and ear out for Eddie’s daughter Jesse Money, you’ll find out soon enough I’m sure.
3.5 out of 5 for a simply fun evening with the Moneyman.

FYI - Jesse Money apparently doesn't have an official website, but you can read more about her here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesse_Money
There appear to be two MySpace pages created, dedicated to her, but what's official is anyones guess?
Eddie's site is: www.eddiemoney.com/  
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Late Update - Monday 28th June, 2010

Rock 'n' Roll Legend Manager, Bill Aucoin Passes Away
1943 - 2010

(Picture from www.aucoin.biz/)

'THE GENIUS BEHIND KISS, BILLY IDOL and BILLY SQUIER...' is how his site described the man behind the successes of Kiss, Billy Squier and Billy Idol ...

This posted by Carol Kaye, of Kayos Productions, Inc today:

R.I.P. My Dear Friend and Mentor, Bill Aucoin:

William Aucoin, beloved record industry executive, manager, entrepreneur, and creative visionary, passed away this morning, Monday, June 28 at 9:11am EST at the Aventura Hospital and Medical Center in Aventura, FL.

Born December 29, 1943, Bill was battling prostate cancer, and passed away from surgical complications.



The man known for masterminding the career of the world-renowned group KISS, Bill Aucoin also managed Starz, Toby Beau, Billy Squier, Billy Idol, and numerous other artists. His most recent venture is Aucoin Globe Entertainment, which he founded in 2007 (http://www.aucoinglobe.com/). In its three years, Bill and his company developed bands in the US and around the world.



He leaves behind his boyfriend of fifteen years, Roman Fernandez, and two sisters Betty Britton and Janet Bankowski.
Funeral arrangements are pending.

Maroon 5 Announce NEW Dates for Nationwide Tour
Maroon 5 are excited to announce they’ve added new dates to their 2010 ‘Hands All Over’ tour.
The second leg, which will kick off on October 6th will follow the release of the band’s third studio album, Hands All Over (A&M/Octone), out September 21st. Produced by rock studio legend Robert John "Mutt" Lange (AC/DC, Def Leppard, The Cars)

In addition, the band’s first single “Misery,” which was released last week on June 22nd, will impact radio airwaves today, June 28th with the video’s world premiere, July 1st on MTV and VH1. The guys will debut the track live on "Toyota Concert Series on Today" this Friday, July 2nd.

To kick off the summer tour, the band just announced they will take the stage at New York City’s Beacon Theatre for “Fuse Presents: Maroon 5 Live From the Beacon Theatre,” airing live in HD, Tuesday, July 27th at 9pm ET on Fuse TV. This concert will be held in support of The Garden of Dreams Foundation and Maroon 5’s charity of choice. Tickets will not be sold to the public, all seats will be reserved for those involved in the organizations.

Joining Maroon 5 for the first leg of their nationwide tour is an exciting group of rotating special guests, including: Owl City, Guster, Kris Allen, V.V. Brown and Ry Cuming. For the second leg of the tour, Bruno Mars and Ry Cuming will share the run of dates with pop rockers OneRepublic (see routing below). Tickets for select dates of the tour will go on sale the weekend of July 10th, 2010.

NEW tour dates for Maroon 5’s 2010 concert tour are as follows:
Aug. 2010
August 17th Raleigh, NC Raleigh Amphitheater (w/Kris Allen, V.V. Brown)
Oct. 2010
October 6th Santa Barbara, CA Santa Barbara Bowl (w/ One Republic, Bruno Mars)
October 8th Los Angeles, CA Greek Theatre (w/ One Republic, Bruno Mars)
October 10th Berkeley, CA Greek Theatre (w/ One Republic, Bruno Mars)
October 12th Tacoma, WA Tacoma Dome (w/ One Republic, Bruno Mars)
October 14th Fresno, CA Save Mart Center (w/ One Republic, Bruno Mars)
October 15th Sacramento, CA ARCO Arena (w/ One Republic, Bruno Mars)
October 16th San Diego, CA Viejas Arena (w/ One Republic, Bruno Mars)
October 19th Tulsa, OK BOK Center (w/ One Republic, Bruno Mars)
October 21st Dallas, TX SuperPages.com Center (w/ One Republic, Ry Cuming)
October 22nd Houston, TX The Woodlands (w/ One Republic, Ry Cuming)
October 23rd Biloxi, MS Hard Rock Casino (w/ One Republic)
October 27th Chicago, IL UIC Pavilion (w/ One Republic, Ry Cuming)
October 28th Minneapolis, MN Target Center (w/ One Republic, Ry Cuming)
October 29th Mahnomen, MN Shooting Star Casino (w/ Ry Cuming)

Select dates go on sale to the general public Saturday, July 10th @ 10am local time,please check http://www.maroon5.com/ for more info and Fan Club / VIP Packages
Previously announced tour dates for Maroon 5’s 2010 summer concert tour are as follows:
July 30th Saratoga Springs NY Saratoga Performing Arts Center (w/ Guster, Ry Cuming)
July 31st Gilford NH Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion (w/ Guster, Ry Cuming)
Aug. 2010
August 1st Uncasville CT Mohegan Sun Arena (w/ Guster, Ry Cuming)
August 4th Toronto ON Molson Canadian Amphitheatre (w/Owl City, Ry Cuming)
August 5th Clarkston (Detroit) MI DTE Energy Music Theatre (w/Owl City, V.V. Brown)
August 7th Canandaigua NY Constellation Brands Performing Arts Cnt. (w/Owl City, V.V. Brown)
*August 9th Boston MA Comcast Center (w/Owl City, V.V. Brown)
August 11th Wantagh NY Nikon at Jones Beach Theater (w/Owl City, V.V. Brown)
August 13th Bristow VA Jiffy Lube Live (w/Owl City, V.V. Brown)
August 14th Camden NJ Susquehanna Bank Center (w/Owl City, V.V. Brown)
August 15th Holmdel NJ PNC Bank Arts Center (w/Owl City, V.V. Brown)
August 19th Miami, FL Bayfront Amphitheater (w/Kris Allen, V.V. Brown)
August 21st Alpharetta, GA (Atlanta) Verizon Wireless Amphitheater at Encore Park (w/Kris Allen, V.V. Brown)
August 24th Davidson, NC John Belk Arena at Davidson College (w/Kris Allen, V.V. Brown)
August 26th Chattanooga, TN McKenzie Arena (w/Kris Allen, V.V. Brown)
August 29th Pittsburgh, PA Trib Total Media Amphitheater at Station Square (w/Kris Allen, V.V. Brown)
August 28th Lexington, KY Applebee’s Park (w/Kris Allen, V.V. Brown, Miggs)
August 31st Dayton, OH Fifth Third Field (w/Kris Allen, V.V. Brown, Miggs)
**September 1st Indianapolis, IN Murat Theater (w/ V.V. Brown)
* Previously August 10th at Comcast Center in Mansfield, MA
** Previously August 6th at Verizon Wireless in Noblesville, IN

Journey frontman Arnel Pineda solo US and Canadian shows

Yes, it's funny, there seem to be some rumours doing the rounds already, that Journey frontman Arnel Pineda, is no longer with the band ... How much truth is in that remains to be seen.
The band at this time, based on interviews given by Neal Schon to Classic Rock magazine - But not many others ... - say the band is recording their next album, with Kevin Shirley.
A posting at http://www.melodicrock.com/ read that Arnel is still in the band and he's helped with writing 2 of the new songs ...
That's not very convincing if you ask me, just 2 songs he was 'allowed' to contribute to?


Anyway, Journey aside, the frontman is hitting the US and Canada to play some live shows of his own!
The band is billed as, 'Arnel Pineda & Ammo Band' although some of the dates are already showing as cancelled? 
These dates from his site:

July 3, 8p - Reno, NV
Peppermill Resort Casino
or Call 877-525-7469

July 4, 8p - Las Vegas, NV CANCELLED
Las Vegas Hilton
Call 888-874-1719 or 323-590-3512
or 732-533-8880

July 9, 8p - Anaheim, CA CANCELLED
Heritage Forum
Call Katz Entertainment 562-219-7235

July 10, 8p - Rancho Mirage, CA
Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa - "The Show"
AA Entertainment 213-713-2033, 619-972-8824, 626-536-9305

July 17, 8p - Edmonton, Canada
Jubilee Auditorium
Forsight Promotions 780-995-6907

July 18, 8p - Vancouver, Canada
Center for the Performing Arts
Call 778-918-2508 or 778-865-5859

July 23, 8p - Calgary, Canada
Jubilee Auditorium
Ticket contact # to follow

July 25, 2p - Atlantic City, NJ
Boardwalk Hall
MPG Global Productions 732-257-4560

July 30, 8p - Toronto, Canada
Roy Thompson Hall
Call Box Office 416-872-4255

Aug 1, 7p - Honolulu, HI CANCELLED
Neal S. Blaisdell Arena

For more details on the guy:
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