Brief update for Wednesday 5th January, 2011

Frontiers Records sign Jimi Jamison and Bobby Kimball for joint project

Jimi Jamison (ex SURVIVOR singer) and Bobby Kimball (ex TOTO lead singer) are joining forces together in a duet album produced by Mat Sinner from the German Heavy Metal band Primal Fear.

Jimi and Bobby are currently putting their finishing touches on the recording of the lead vocals in Los Angeles, while the musical tracks have been recorded in Germany.

The songs on the album, which promises to be one of the highlights of 2011 in the Melodic Rock scene, have been selected from several songwriters including Richard Page (Mr Mister), Randy Goodrum (Toto, Steve Perry), Robert Sall (Work of Art), John Waite and more melodic rock luminaries.

Jimi and Bobby can be seen in this videoclip on Facebook presenting the album: www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1756792922076#!/video/video.php?v=1756792922076

The release is currently pencilled for spring 2011. More details to be announced shortly.

Source: www.frontiers.it/

Gerry Rafferty RIP - Dead at 63

16 April 1947 – 4 January 2011

Gerry Rafferty, the Scottish singer-songwriter behind hit songs "Baker Street," "Night Owl," "Get it Right Next Time," and "Stuck in the Middle With You," has died. He was 63.

Rafferty's agent Paul Charles confirmed on Tuesday that his client had passed away following a long illness, but said he had no additional information on how or where he had died.

Rafferty's classic record "Baker Street" - renowned worldwide for its distinctive haunting saxophone solo - climbed to No. 3 in the U.K. and No. 2 in the U.S. music charts in 1978. It still achieves considerable airplay on radio stations.

Apparently Gerry Rafferty had gone through a very rough patch of hitting some serious lows, with
struggles with alcoholism and had also undergone treatment for liver failure. He reassured fans of his well-being in February 2009 after a former bandmate expressed concerns over his health and whereabouts in the press. Yet later in 2009 he released the album "Life Goes On."

He was a seriously underrated talent and it's very sad to hear of this loss.

There are various news stories around of course, but here's a couple:

www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2011/01/04/AR2011010403817.html?hpid=entnews

and

www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-12115604

and

http://news.stv.tv/scotland/218229-baker-street-songwriter-gerry-rafferty-dies-in-hospital/

RIP Gerry Rafferty

The GRAMMY Museum Presents An Evening With Robby Krieger

Please join us in welcoming The Doors legendary guitarist Robby Krieger to The GRAMMY Museum to discuss his new, GRAMMY-nominated pop instrumental album, Singularity. Before an intimate audience of 200 in the Museum's Clive Davis Theater, hear Krieger in conversation with Vice President of the GRAMMY Foundation, Scott Goldman. They'll discuss the inspiration and creative influences behind not only his most recent release, but also his entire career. Following the interview, Krieger will take questions from the audience and perform selections from the album.

WHO:  Robby Krieger

WHEN:  Friday, January 14, 2010; 8 p.m.

WHERE: The GRAMMY Museum at L.A. LIVE

800 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA 90015 (Near the corner of Figueroa Street and Olympic Boulevard)

TICKET INFO: Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased on Ticketmaster.com starting December 23, 2010 at 12:00pm or at The GRAMMY Museum box office. All proceeds benefit The GRAMMY Museum.

Official site: www.robbykrieger.com/

Rock News Update for Tuesday 4th January, 2011

New supergroup, 'Strangers In The Night' with certainly some familar faces!

Yes indeed, this has been doing the rounds in the rumour mills and I can now confirm that an interesting new supergroup has been put together in the shape of Michael Schenker (Guitars), Pete Way (Bass, Vocals), Herman Rarebell (Drums) and Michael Voss on lead vocals.

The name they are going by ... Strangers In The Night!

This as many UFO fans will recognise as being the title of the excellent live album released by the band back in 1979, that indeed featured both Schenker and Way.

Anyway, I don't have too much more information except that they have made a promo video, that has been posted on You Tube, entitled 'Saturday Night,' which I have here for you folks, although the way this blogspot deal works, you may want to follow the link to You Tube directly, posted below the video.  

You Tube direct link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=46k1sr8CFGI&NR=1

Official sites:

www.hermanrarebell.com/

www.peteway.net/

www.michaelschenkerhimself.com/

www.kidroom-music.de/index.html - Michael Voss

Phillip Lynott RIP - 1949 - 1986 - 25 years gone

Yes it's really been 25 years to the day, since the passing of Thin Lizzy frontman Phillip Lynott and I for one seriously miss the guy.

I was fortunate to have seen Thin Lizzy ten times with Phil fronting the band, as well as catching his band after Lizzy, Grand Slam twice live.

He was indeed a serious talent and sadly, he chose to waste his life and talent.

The songs and memories will always stay with me, as I'm sure they do with each of you that also saw Phil with Lizzy live.

I still swear to this day, that they WERE the best damn live band going in their day. I really miss them.

Long time Lizzy members Scott Gorham, Darren Wharton and original member Brian Downey have reunited once agin, to take Lizzy out on the road in 2011, along with Marco Mendoza (Ex-Whitesnake, Ted Nugent, Soul SirkUS) who played bass in post Phil Lynott line ups, Vivian Campbell (Guitars - Taking time out from Def Leppard) and Ricky Warwick (Ex-Almighty).

Scott Gorham, Brian Downey and Darren Wharton posted these thoughts on Phil, at the new Thin Lizzy site, along with this message:

January 4th, 2011 marks the 25th Anniversary of the passing of Philip Parris Lynott. As the lads get ready to embark on a European Tour, Scott, Brian, Ricky, Vivian and Darren would like to take this opportunity to share some memories and thoughts of Phil.

"25 years on and I still miss the guy. Hell, we all miss him. It's a major reason why we go out and play the songs. But standing next to him for 11 years through all the ups as well as the down periods always brings back memories, especially at this time of year. As you can imagine, Phil and I got to know each other like brothers on a mission. Maybe not always a successful mission, but we always gave it a Hell of a shot. He was a good friend, so I tell you what, when we introduce Phil each night.......... TAKE THE ROOF OFF!!! I'm pretty sure he's watching."

Looking forward to meeting up with a lot of you out on the tour,

Scott Gorham

"Phil songs bring back some special memories to me especially at this time of year. Cowboy song instantly transports me back to when Phil and me were kids going to see the Lone Ranger or Hopalong Cassidy and Roy Rogers at the Apollo Cinema in Dublin for Saturday afternoon Cowboy Matinees. Emerald, where Phil wrote about the myths and stories we were taught at school about ancient Gaelic wars and disputes. Or Black Rose where Phil mentions the great literary figure Brendan Behan who lived on Bangor Road not far from where we both lived in Dublin. An abundance of personal memories Phil, 25 years on. Always sadly missed."

Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas da anam. Róisín Dubh.

Brian Downey

"Being a member of Thin Lizzy has been a fantastic, and life changing experience. Not only has it had a profound impression on me as a person, but also looking back, I've realized how much my own music with Dare has been greatly influenced by Phil, Scott, Brian and Thin Lizzy. Not so much in the style of writing, but more importantly in the sincerity and passion they brought to their unique music. As the years go by, I think about Philip most days, and when I do, I whisper a quiet "thank you" to myself. So now, as I look forward to seeing you all soon at the forthcoming concerts; as we honour and pay tribute to the genius of Phil Lynott, and the music of Thin Lizzy...... as we take the stage, I'll whisper once again, "thank you for letting me be part of one of the best Rock bands there ever was....."

God Bless,

Darren Wharton

For the other guys words, go to: http://thinlizzyband.com/

BENEDICTUM to unleash their 'Dominion' on the Metal crowds !

Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of BENEDICTUM anticipated third full length album entitled “Dominion” on February 18th in Europe and March 8th in North America.

Surging forward as they are driven by the powerful momentum of front woman Veronica Freeman - whose unique and powerful style has been called one of the truly most extraordinary voices in Metal - and the guitar pyrotechnics of writer and guitarist Pete Wells, the time has come for the world to be on notice.

Benedictum is again upon us.

Formed in 2005 and quickly noticed by Dio guitarist Craig Goldy, the wheels were soon set in motion for their debut album “Uncreation”. The collaboration of producer Jeff Pilson (Dokken, Dio, Foreigner) and the musical works of vocalist Veronica Freeman and Pete Wells along with the talent of drummer Blackie Sanchez, bassist Jesse Wright and keyboardist Chris Morgan, “Uncreation” was released to great reviews. Benedictum was selected as one of the top bands to watch in 2006 by Classic Rock magazine and one of Rock Hard Germany’s top 50 albums for that year. Guest appearances included Jeff Pilson, Craig Goldy and Jimmy Bain.

The result of the second collaboration between Jeff Pilson and Benedictum was their 2008 release “Seasons of Tragedy” which evolved them into a Metal force which could not be denied. With Veronicas’ raw and powerful vocals, songs with memorable melodies and the magical talent of Pete Wells along with new drummer Paul Courtois and the guidance of Jeff Pilson, “Seasons of Tragedy” further solidified the fact that there was something quite special at work here. “Seasons of Tragedy” garnered more great reviews and were on many a list for top albums of 2008. Guest appearances again by Jeff Pilson, Craig Goldy and also George Lynch who added his special flare to the track Bare Bones and the cover of Accept’s “Balls to the Wall”.

Their driving music and energetic shows allowed Benedictum to grace the stage of many festivals including Wacken, Gods of Metal, HRH and a tour with DORO.

Now ready for yet another amazing chapter, Benedictum are off on a new and exciting musical episode as they have signed a contract with Frontiers Records. Building upon their great foundation Benedictum has recruited Grammy Award winning producer Ryan Greene (Megadeth, F5, MXPX, NOFX) and are firing on all cylinders. With members Chris Shrum now on bass, Mike Pannone on drums and Tony Diaz on keyboards the new music promises to continue to expand the horizon for Benedictum and is sure to please current fans as well. From the onslaught of the opening track Dominion to the epic Epsilon and the heartfelt acoustic track Sanctuary, this album has it all. Adding to the already explosive sound of Dominion are guest appearances by Jeff Pilson, Craig Goldy and none other than Rudy Sarzo on the fist pumping track Bang.

The album “Dominion” contains an absolute musical journey with powerful riffs, well thought out lyrics and truly amazing musicianship. Crank it up, give it a listen and you too will become a “Victim of Benedictum”!

“Dominion” tracklisting includes:

Dominion; At The Gates; Seer; Grind It; Prodigal Son; The Shadowlands; Beautiful Pain; Dark Heart; Bang; Loud Silence; Epsilon; Sanctuary (Bonus Track); Overture/The Temples of Syrinx (Bonus Track)

Weblinks:

http://www.benedictum.net/

www.myspace.com/benedictum

http://www.frontiers.it/

Asia annonce first North American 2011 Tour Dates

No word on any new album at this time, although there's probably one on the way, but in the meantime the 'Original' Asia band members, John Wetton, Geoff Downes, Steve Howe and Carl Palmer have announced some North American tour dates for Spring time, to blow away those Winter blues.

Details of Asia's 2011 touring schedule have started to firm up.

Confirmed North American shows to date are shown below.

April 2011

Apr 28 - The State Theatre, Easton, PA

Apr 29 - Keswick Theatre, Glenside, PA

Apr 30 - Tarrytown Music Hall, Tarrytown, NY

May 2011

May 01 - Birchmere, Alexandria, VA

May 03 - Rams Head Tavern, Annapolis, MD

May 05 - The Mayo Center for the Performing Arts, Morristown, NJ

May 07 - Casino Rama, Rama, ON, Canada

May 12 - Leelanau Sands Casino, Peshawbestown, MI

May 13 - House of Blues, Chicago, IL

May 14 - Pabst Theatre, Milwaukee, WI

Keep track of Asia at: www.originalasia.com/

Pictures of Status Quo – 40 Years of Hits – DVD review

Pictures of Status Quo – 40 Years of Hits – DVD review

Released through: SRO Entertainment. Release Date: Available now.

OK, this for me was a real treat, as having been a (Status) Quo fan for years - Let’s face it, they are a British institution! – to learn that in the USA, a label of ‘any’ kind is behind putting out a current statement of Status Quo’s history, is one for the record books!

The band sadly have never broken in the States and who knows why … It’s not for want of trying as Francis Rossi told me in an interview late last year.
Interview link:
http://chambersofrock.blogspot.com/2010/01/exclusive-interview-with-status-quos.html

Through the early years, from the money the band made in the UK from successful albums, they ploughed the money back into touring the US, where they had achieved minor success with ‘Pictures of Matchstick Men,’ back in the late sixties. Suffice to say, America already had ZZ Top – The closest thing to Quo here, although dirtier! – why did they need another band that was famous for their twelve bar boogie blues!

I have to tell you, from my experience, you are missing out America!

More hit singles in the UK charts than both, The Beatles or the Rolling Stones, yes, Status Quo are a UK legendary band!

This opens with a view of the N.E.C. stage, in Birmingham, England for the back, with a packed house inside and a buzz coming from the stage … This is interspersed with a few early words from Bob Young, Rick Parfitt and Francis Rossi, before the opening – Familiar – chords of  'Caroline’ ring out.

Then it’s into the documentary proper with Rick Parfitt first discussing how he started out playing, then Francis Rossi and John Coghlan. It is great to hear them reminiscing some, Francis and John about the first band, The Spectres and then Rick about The Highlights. Then of course how Rick received the phone call out of the blue, asking him to join the band. Then it’s discussed how as a new band they changed their name to Traffic, which almost immediately they had to change again due to Stevie Winwood's band of the same name …, so they switched to Traffic Jam again briefly, before settling on Status Quo, which initially was ‘The Status Quo.’

Bob Young is then introduced, as he was asked initially to become the bands roadie, all of that changed down the line though.

The band then changed direction thinking they wanted a more rock ‘n’ roll sound, rather than the psychedelic material they had been playing. Cue ‘Down The Dustpipe,’ which I actually didn’t realize before but apparently it took 6 months to break the charts and then it became a hit single.

Next thing it becomes obvious that Francis Rossi and Bob Young could write well together as ‘Paper Plane’ became their first joint success and as Francis explains how it came together, it’s extremely amusing. He really is and always has been a very funny guy.

He then goes on to explain how ‘Caroline’ started as a shuffle, bluesy tune originally before Rick went over a few things and suggested doing it a similar way to the previous successful songs.

Before the band knew it, they were then finding themselves with number one albums and then ‘Down Down’ became the bands first number one single in the UK. Again a Rossi / Young composition …

The story behind John Fogerty’s, ‘Rockin’ All Over the World’ getting the Quo treatment is discussed next, before Andy Bown then gets introduced to the band by Bob Young and tells his story – Which is also quite entertaining. – then before too long he’s writing away successfully with Rick Parfitt, with ‘Whatever You Want’ being their first successful collaboration.

Bob Young then explains how things started to get tense towards the end of the 70’s and John Coghlan decides to quit.

Once ‘Margarita Time’ reared its ugly head, Alan Lancaster said he’d had enough too, cue the ‘End of the Road’ gigs.

After Rick and Francis had done the ‘End of the Road’ gigs, they both decided, they couldn’t call it quits and decided to continue and Live Aid was their opportunity to resurrect the band.

Before too long they soon pulled in both John ‘Rhino’ Edwards and Jeff Rich on bass and drums respectively, who incidentally had both been long time members of female singer / songwriter, Judie Tzuke’s band.

Next a change of manager took place with David Walker coming onboard and he was there from 1989 – 2000 and the band explained how he had some great ideas, such as the ‘Rock ‘til You Drop’ gigs, where the band entered the Guinness Book of Records with four different gigs across the UK in 24 hours!
His not so great ideas perhaps could include the covers albums the band did when they hit a period of writers block and released, ‘Don’t Stop’ and ‘Famous in the Last Century.’

Although many die hard fans were not best pleased with these releases, they were still relatively successful releases.

In 2001 Simon Porter became manager and still is to this day and then a change of drummers once more with Matt Letley joining the band and this completed the band to date also.

His baptism in joining the band is quite amusing too, as you’ll find out.

‘Heavy Traffic’ had a huge launch with the band playing a gig on HMS Ark Royal, the Royal Navy’s huge aircraft carrier.

With this line up, the band seem to have grown yet more and feel like they’ve flourished quite a bit and then the song ‘Beginning of the End’ from the very good ‘In Search of the Fourth Chord,’ is discussed in depth.

‘Pictures of Status Quo’ celebrating forty years of Quo is released and that really wraps things up.

This really is a great behind the scenes documentary, in say a similar fashion to say VH1’s ‘Behind the Music’ series, which being American sadly means Status Quo would be unlikely to feature in.

Status Quo without doubt are truly one of Europe’s most consistently, successful rock bands and this DVD is an absolute winner to me and I’m sure would be to any die hard Quo fan, but also new fans would get a great kick out of checking this out.

Great stuff indeed!

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
Official band website:
www.statusquo.co.uk/

Brief update for Sunday 2nd January, 2011

Hi all, yes, it really is 2011! Can you believe it??!

Hope you all had a great Christmas holiday and survived New Years Eve, we feel like we need to hit that crash diet and get back on track as Christmas has been seriously laid back, but it's been a great time with family and friends.

Really been pretty sparse on the news front, as you've probably noticed ... I've been looking around each day to try and bring you folks something, but it's been all quiet more or less on all fronts, so here we are we're into the New Year now and off we go with a slight news update for you. Cheers, Al.

Glenn Hughes announces UK tour in Spring 2011

After two successful live shows with his latest 'supergroup' project, Black Country Communion in the UK in December, Glenn Hughes will return in Spring 2011, for a solo band tour, with some low key dates.

Here's the flyer from his site:

Official site: www.glennhughes.com/

UK rockers UFO provide update through newsletter

UFO who have recently played a brief UK tour during December including the UK's end of year hard rock festival, the fourth Hard Rock Hell event, recently announced plans in May to play the USA, but at this time only five dates have been confirmed:

May 2011

11th May - Baltimore - MD - Bourbon Street
13th May - New York - NY - B.B. Kings
14th May - Foxboro (Boston) - MA - The Showcase Live
20th May - Chicago/St. Charles - IL - The Arcada Theatre
21st May - Chicago/St. Charles - IL - The Arcada Theatre

Aside from these dates, the bands keyboard and guitarist Paul Raymond, has just posted a newsletter update, include tales of the recent tour, news on a new album for 2011 and more. this can be checked out over at Paul's site here:

www.paulraymond.info/dec2010/newsletter.htm

To keep up with the bands activities: www.ufo-music.info/

Kansas melodic rockers Shooting Star to play rare live show

I literally just stumbled on this by chance, but if like me you enjoyed the music of Shooting Star you may be interested to know that the band will soon be playing a one off gig.

The band from Kansas who produced some excellent albums over the years, including 'Hang on for Your Life,' 'Silent Scream,' 'Three Wishes,' 'Leap of Faith,' 'Burning,' as well as the very good last studio release 'Circles' that featured classy vocalist Kevin Chalfant.

The band's current line up features:

Current Lineup:
Van McLain - Lead Guitar/Vocals
Ronnie Platt - Lead Vocals
Dennis Laffoon - Keyboards/Vocals
Steve Thomas - Drums, Percussion
Ron Verlin - Bass
Janet Jameson- Violin/Vocals 
The one off gig will be as special guests to Dennis DeYoung on Valentines weekend, but not Valentines Day, on February 12th, 2011.

VALENTINES WEEKEND - DENNIS DEYOUNG - THE MUSIC OF STYX WITH SPECIAL GUEST SHOOTING STAR.

Date: February 12, 2010 Time: 8:00 pm

According to Dennis DeYoung's site it's at the Sunrise Theatre, Fort Pierce, Florida:

http://www.dennisdeyoung.com/tour/details.asp?id=262

Sadly, Dennis DeYoung's site gives no mention of Shooting Star, but Shooting Star's MySpace page advertises the show here:

www.myspace.com/shootingstarband

Rock and Roll legend Chuck Berry taken ill

According to the BBC website, rock and roll legend Chuck Berry collapsed on stage in Chicago mid song.

www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-12105347

The rock and roller now eighty four years old, has written some rock and roll classics, such as 'Roll Over Beethoven,' 'Johnny B. Goode' and 'Maybelline.'

There's various stories around the world on this, but here's a link to a Chicago news site:

www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2011/01/chuck-berry-seems-ill-during-chicago-show.html

Friday 31st December, 2010

Hi all, no news for today folks, crazy day already ...

Just wanted to thank everyone for supporting the site over my first year of activity and hope that you'll be with me in 2011 too!

A very Happy New Year to one and all everywhere in the world!

See you in 2011!

Cheers and thanks again!

Alun Williams - Chambers of Rock!

Brief Update for 30th December, 2010

EX-RAINBOW/DEEP PURPLE VOCALIST JOE LYNN TURNER JOINS STING AND OTHER

MUSIC, FILM and TELEVISION STARS FOR RUSSIA'S NATIONAL NEW YEAR'S EVE

BROADCAST

-- Joe Lynn Turner enjoys multi-dimensional celebrity status as he wraps up successful Russian tour --

(NEW YORK, NY) Singer Joe Lynn Turner ("JLT") is slated to appear on Russia's most popular New Year's Eve television broadcast: Channel One's "Olivier." According to Russian music journalist, Tatiana Mikhailova, the word "Olivier," in Russian culture, is the name of the popular salad dish traditionally served on New Years Eve. The television show itself is reportedly a "salad" mix of interviews and entertainment. Mikhailova reports that Sting, Elton John and Roxette are other musicians scheduled to be shown on this broadcast in addition to JLT. Although Joe did not perform at the show's taping, he was interviewed. "Olivier" is recorded a few days before New Year's Eve and also shown on January 7th (Russian Christmas).

In mid-December, Turner was also summoned to appear as a member of the "jury" on "Fashion Verdict," one of the most widely viewed daytime television shows with one of the largest audience of women viewers in Russia. It's a fashion makeover show with goals that are similar to the former American TV show, "Style Court," and current USA cable TV programs,"What Not To Wear" (The Learning Channel) or "How Do I Look?" (Style Network). Joe gave advice to the woman "on trial." To view the entire show, with Joe's remarks in English, visit this link:

www.1tv.ru/sprojects_edition/si=5726&fi=6744

(Note: Joe is introduced approximately 26 minutes into the show) Turner's solo tour of Russia was also a huge success. He played over 15 dates, including several in Siberia. JLT states, "Siberia was an amazing mix of Chinese, Japanese and Russian fans. They loved the music so much they were singing along to many of the songs!"

Joe is humbled by his multi-dimensional celebrity status in Russia and all of Eastern Europe. He explains, "This area is like the Wild West of the East! There is so much uncharted territory and I have enjoyed every minute of playing to these loyal audiences who still appreciate pure, classic rock. Yet, I still cannot wrap myself around the fact that I am considered a major celebrity here. I am just doing my job...making music, singing, giving my 'all' on tour."

The Russian infatuation with Turner probably began in the late 1980s when he played several sold out shows in Leningrad and Moscow as a member of guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen's Rising Force. JLT helped the guitar virtuoso reach a wider audience with the album,"Odyssey," and album/video/DVD "Live in Leningrad." The Russians did not forget and later embraced Turner when he toured the country with Glenn Hughes and the Hughes Turner Project. Many other appearances followed including numerous solo shows and a Command Performance for President Dmitry Medvedev, other major government officials and Russian oil company executives at a private concert in Moscow.

Turner has many exciting projects in the works for 2011 and will announce more news in January.

www.joelynnturner.com/

www.myspace.com/joelynnturner

Slash releases live EP through iTunes with Myles Kennedy

No official press release for this it seems but indeed, Slash and his recent touring buddy Myles Kennedy (Alter Bridge), who was also touted for the Led Zeppelin gig when Robert Plant said he would tour with Zep anymore and rumours indicated that the man even did a few sessions with Messers Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham.

Anyway, interesting the song selection that is on this new iTunes EP release, as Zep's 'Communication Breakdown' is included in the six tunes available:

1. Back From Cali

2. Communication Breakdown (Led Zeppelin cover)

3. Fall To Pieces

4. Rocket Queen

5. Starlight

6. Sucker Train Blues

You can purchase it right here on iTunes:

http://itunes.apple.com/album/itunes-session-feat-myles/id408028275?v0=9988&ign-mpt=uo%3D1

Slash's website: http://slash.ultimate-guitar.com/

Staying on the Myles Kennedy theme ...

Alter Bridge Press Release - USA Deluxe DVD/CD and Blu-Ray Debut JAN 11

ALTER BRIDGE BREAKS OUT OF “ISOLATION” AS DEBUT SINGLE FROM AB III LANDS AT #2 AT ROCK RADIO

Band Set To Release Long Awaited Alter Bridge - Live From Amsterdam Deluxe DVD/CD and Blu-Ray in the US on January 11.

(December 27, 2010 – New York, NY) Alter Bridge continues to climb up the charts with their single, “Isolation”, off of their latest release ABIII. “Isolation” is currently at #2 on the Active and Mainstream Rock Charts and is setting its sights on the top spot. Showcasing the band’s ability to play and write aggressively while maintaining their signature melodic component, the single has been Top 10 on major radio stations across the country. ABIII was self-released on Alter Bridge recordings via EMI label services and debuted at #17 on the Billboard Top 200 chart.

Coinciding with the band’s chart success of “Isolation” and ABIII, DC3 Music Group and Alter Bridge are gearing up to release their long-awaited DVD and live CD, Alter Bridge – Live From Amsterdam. Rumored for release multiple times in the US in 2010, the DVD finally sees the light of day stateside on January 11th, 2011. The US and UK release of single-disc version of the DVD landed at #1 on the Amazon US and UK the same day being released in 2009. Directed & Produced by Award-Winning Director Daniel E Catullo III (Rush, Rage Against The Machine, Godsmack) the DVD was recorded during the band’s 2008 Blackbird tour, the DVD showcases some of the band’s most memorable hits including “Rise Today,” ”Metalingus,” “Open Your Eyes,” and “Broken Wings.” The DVD also showcases two extremely captivating performances by the band: the 8- minute opus “Blackbird” and an emotionally charged solo performance of “Watch Over You.” The Deluxe Box set includes 2 discs- a DVD with the full show/ documentary and a live CD. The packaging also includes a 16 page color book. The DVD will also be available in Blu-Ray at the same time.

Alter Bridge is currently on their first US tour in three years. The tour kicked off in Grand Rapids, MI on December 10th, and the 12 city trek runs through the holiday season and makes stops in major markets including New York, Dallas, Chicago and Baltimore before wrapping up in Houston on January 8th. This is just the warm-up run before the band’s full US tour this spring.

Alter Bridge is Myles Kennedy, Mark Tremonti, Brian Marshall and Scott Phillips.

ALTER BRIDGE TOUR DATES

DATE CITY STATE VENUE

December 2010Dec 30th Spokane WA Knitting Factory Concert House

January 2011

Jan 1st Seattle WA Showbox at the Market

Jan 5th Tempe AZ Marquee Theatre

Jan 7th Dallas TX Trees

Jan 8th Houston TX Warehouse Live

“LIVE FROM AMSTERDAM” TRACK LISTING

LIVE CD

1. COME TO LIFE

2. BEFORE TOMORROW COMES

3. BRAND NEW START

4. WHITE KNUCKLES

5. BURIED ALIVE

6. ONE DAY REMAINS

7. WATCH OVER YOU

8. TIES THAT BIND

9. BLACKBIRD

10. IN LOVING MEMORY

11. METALINGUS

12. OPEN YOUR EYES

13. BROKEN WINGS

14. RISE TODAY

LIVE DVD AND BLU-RAY

1. COME TO LIFE

2. FIND THE REAL

3. BEFORE TOMORROW COMES

4. BRAND NEW START

5. WHITE KNUCKLES

6. BURIED ALIVE

7. COMING HOME

8. ONE DAY REMAINS

9. WATCH OVER YOU

10. TIES THAT BIND

11. BLACKBIRD

12. IN LOVING MEMORY

13. METALINGUS

14. OPEN YOUR EYES

15. BROKEN WINGS

16. NEW WAY TO LIVE

17. MUD BONE

18. RISE TODAY

Both the Deluxe DVD/CD and Blu-Ray contain a previously unseen hour-long documentary that includes a rare and special acoustic performance by Myles Kennedy.

Official band website: http://www.alterbridge.com/

Uriah Heep officially confirms new album on the way

As previously reported here, with Mick Box's Christmas meesage to you all, Uriah Heep's website has now posted the following information on the bands activities:

Official Announcement

Classic English rockers Uriah Heep... Recording their next studio album of all-new material for 2011 Release

Uriah Heep founder Mick Box is pleased to announce that he and the band are back in the studio, after well-received tours that took them around the world.

The band is recording an all-new album of original material at Liscombe Park Studios in Buckinghamshire England.

For more on Uriah Heep and to keep up to date with band activities:

http://www.uriah-heep.com/

 

REO Speedwagon new Double Live CD now available

As previously mentioned on Chambers of Rock, REO Speedwagon recently announced they were recording one of their December live show for a neew CD release.

As it turns out, they recorded two shows, one in Bloomington and one in Milwaukee and have now made the material available for fans to purchase.

This posted at the bands website:

Limited Edition Double-CD Set from December 16th Bloomington and December 18th Milwaukee

As you may know, we recently recorded our show in Milwaukee on December 18th, and have offered a limited edition double-CD set of the performance.

We are excited to let you know that we also recorded the show in Bloomington on the 16th, and have now put that recording up for sale as well!

These are truly collectors items - fully mixed and mastered by Abbey Road Live. They are packaged in handsome DigiPak cases, and each Digipak has a slightly different variation of artwork.

There are only 1000 of each show available, so you will want to make sure you get yours before they are all gone! They are individiually numbered, too, so that you can commemorate your special REO Speedwagon memento.

Order yours now at http://www.abbeyroadliveus.com/

Band website: www.speedwagon.com/

Rock News update for Tuesday 28th December, 2010

Hi folks, yes I'm back! Hope you all had a great Christmas!

We've had a good one for the most part, too much food though ... Phew!

Been a good time for family and friends, even including a little jam session last night with some former band mates. Good stuff!

Anyway, let's get going with the latest that I can share, even though it's been pretty lean on the updates.

Here we go! Cheers, Al.

Sweden Rock Festival starts to get serious with new additions to line up.

The annual Sweden Rock Festival, is fast becoming one of the greatest annual outdoor rock events - Hope to make it there myself one day! - celebrates it's 20th Anniversary next year and has just added a few more serious names after the initial announcement that included just Ozzy Osbourne and Judas Priest as 'the' big names. 

They've now announced the rejuvenated - We hope! - Whitesnake, the recently reformed Mr. Big, classic rockers Styx, Southern boogie merchants Molly Hatchet as well as few other favourites people will get a kick from.

Here's the festival flyer as it stands so far ...

 

It's certainly shaping up, I'm sure all will agree!

For more and updated information, along with ticket details go to:

http://www.swedenrock.com/

 

MOTÖRHEAD ANNOUNCES 2011 U.S. TOUR

Metal heads in the USA can look forward to a Motörhead Winter tour starting in February 2011.

This from the bands website:

MOTÖRHEAD, the loudest, coolest and most iconic rock'n'roll lifestyle around, announce their 2011 U.S. tour dates to celebrate the band's 35th anniversary and the release their new studio album, 'The Wörld Is Yours,' on February 8, 2011.

Motörhead are a mindset, a belief, a way to live your life, a way to both survive and beat a society that sometimes seems intent on trying to grind you down. Which is why Motörhead have chosen now, in what might be some of the most tense times in recent global history, to release a hell-raising, rebel-rousing rock'n'roll statement known as The Wörld is Yours.

If that isn't enough, the critically-acclaimed documentary about Motörhead's iconic founding-frontman, titled LEMMY, which has been tearing up the worldwide film festival circuit from New York to Melbourne to London and beyond, will premiere nationally in January.

“We don't fit into anything!” roars founder and heartbeat Lemmy Kilmister,"the only thing we fit into is 'Motörhead' because we are Motörhead music and that's what we do!"

THE WÖRLD IS YOURS 2011 TOUR:

January 2011

Tue 25 Jan Anaheim CA House of Blues

Fri 28 Jan Reno NV Knitting Factory

Sat 29 Jan Las Vegas NV HOB

Mon 31 Jan San Diego CA HOB

February 2011Wed 02 Feb San Francisco CA Warfield

Fri 04 Feb Seattle WA Sodo
Sat 05 Feb Portland OR Roseland

Mon 07 Feb Vancouver BC Vogue

Wed 09 Feb Edmonton AL EEC

Thu 10 Feb Calgary AL Flames Central

Sat 12 Feb Winnipeg MT Burton

Sun 13 Feb TBA TBA

Tue 15 Feb Minneapolis MN 1st Ave

Wed 16 Feb Milwaukee WI Rave Ballroom

Thu 17 Feb Kansas City MO Midland Theatre
Sat 19 Feb Chicago IL Congress

Sun 20 Feb St Louis MO Pops

Tue 22 Feb Grand Rapids MI Orbit

Wed 23 Feb Detroit MI Royal Oak

Fri 25 Feb Kitchener ONT Elements

Sat 26 Feb Toronto ONT Koolhouse

Mon 28 Feb New York NY Best Buy

March 2011Tue 01 Mar Boston MA House of Blues (AVALON)

Thu 03 Mar Sayerville NJ Starland Ballroom

Fri 04 Mar Atlantic City NJ House of Blues

Sat 05 Mar TBA TBA

Tue 08 Mar Austin TX Stubb's

Thu 10 Mar Tempe AZ Marquee Theatre

Fri 11 Mar Los Angeles CA Nokia Live

http://www.imotorhead.com/

Melodicrock Records signs Riverdogs for new album.

Andrew McNiece, the man behind http://www.melodicrock.com/ and his relatively new MelodicRock Records, has just secured the a great new signing to his label and has posted this update at his site to share the news.

Much loved melodic rock band Riverdogs (Rob Lamothe, Vivian Campbell, Nick Brophy and Marc Danzeisen) have signed to MelodicRock Records for an album to be released in the first half of 2011.

This studio album is a long awaited return for the band, featuring unreleased music from the 'lost' 2003 sessions as well as perhaps a few new 2010 tunes :)

The guys recently spent a week in Los Angeles together working up ideas and re-mixing and adding new parts to the originally recorded songs.

Further details, comments from the guys and track titles coming up in the new year. But to say I'm excited about this release is a massive understatement! I've loved this band since the day the debut album came out. They should be mega-stars and perhaps with this release we can get the ball rolling again!

The bands previously history includes three albums from the 90's, the self titled 'Riverdogs,' 'Absolutely Live' and 'Bone.'

For more details go to:

www.melodicrockrecords.com/index1.html and http://www.melodicrock.com/

Santana takes 'Guitar Heaven' on South Pacific Asian Tour 2011!

In March, Carlos Santana and his band will be heading across the Pacific to the South Pacific and Asia for a month long tour in support of the man's 'Guitar Heaven' release.

Here's the tour dates at this time:

March 2011

3/26/2011 - Saturday Hope Estate, Hunter Valley, Australia

3/25/2011 - Friday Acer Arena, Sydney, Australia

3/24/2011 - Thursday Entertainment Centre, Brisbane, Australia

3/22/2011 - Tuesday CBS Canterbury Arena, Christchurch, New Zealand

3/20/2011 - Sunday Vector Arena, Auckland, New Zealand

3/17/2011 - Thursday Entertainment Centre, Adelaide, Australia

3/16/2011 - Wednesday Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne, Australia

3/13/2011 - Sunday Sandalford Estate Swan Valley, Perth, Australia

3/9/2011 - Wednesday Gymnastic Gymnasium, Seoul, Korea
3/7/2011 - Monday Singapore Indoor Stadium, Singapore, Singapore
3/5/2011 - Saturday Java Jazz Festival, Jakarta, Indonesia
3/4/2011 - Friday Java Jazz Festival, Jakarta, Indonesia
3/1/2011 - Tuesday Impact Arena, Bangkok, Thailand

Official website: http://www.santana.com/

Update for Friday 24th December, 2010 - Christmas Eve

Hi all, what a crazy time of year indeed!

Sorry for the lack of updates this wekk, but I'm sure you understand, Christmas week and all that, but yesterday Rhonda's, my kids and my Christmas was made all the more special by the arrival of my boy from England, Jonathan and his sweetheart of another half, Sian. :)

With all the chaos of Heathrow airport, it kept looking more and more hit and miss if their flight would take off. The great news is - for them - that it did.

They told us of all the other people at Heathrow still waiting for their flights, even sleeping outside Heathrow's building in the cold ... Terrible!

So much for airlines hospitality! Nice!

Anyway, this is going to have to be brief folks and tomorrow, there will be nothing posted, so I'd like to take this opportunity to wish you and yours an absolutely rockin' Christmas and better still New Year!

Hoping for many that 2011 bring more good things your way if 2010 didn't do it for you.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, one and all!

Cheers,

Al

Big Country UK tour

Original Big Country vocalist / guitarist Stuart Adamson would've been 51 this year and would've most lightly been looking forward to playing some Christmas shows this year, if he hadn't sadly taken his own life back in 2001 on December 16th. Tragic.

I got to see Big Country around three times live, back in my UK days and OK, they were a bit of an acquired taste for many, but they always put on a great live show.

The remaining band members in honour of Stuart Adamson, are heading out to play six live shows in the UK, three of the six days are in the bands native Scotland though, so not a lot of English dates and sorry Welsh fans, not dates in Wales.

Mike Peters (The Alarm) has taken on Adamson's role in Big Country today and is a worthy replacement if you ask me.

If you're lucky enough to be close to where they are playing, get along and see them, great live act indeed.

Official site: http://www.bigcountry.co.uk/

Redrocker.com Confirms Autobiography

Sammy Hagar's autobiography is coming your way soon, this from the mans website:

You have all been hearing the rumors and http://www.redrocker.com/ would like to officially confirm that Sammy Hagar is releasing the Autobiography "Red - My Uncensored Life in Rock" on March 15, 2011 through Harper Collins.

In the book Hagar tells readers the outrageous and unbelievable stories of his rise through rock music, detailing his 30 year career starting with Montrose and covering Van Halen, The Wabos, his Solo work and of course Chickenfoot. Lavishing readers with behind-the-scene stories from Van Halen, one of the biggest rock groups in history, Sammy tells of the global stadium tours, private jets, parties, and of course the ups and downs that came with fame and success.

To celebrate the book’s release, Sammy will be making a special appearance at Canadian Music Week doing a special interview on Saturday, 12 March at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto.

The publisher has started taking preorders for the book. Links to options can be found on the Harper Collins website:

www.harpercollins.com/books/Red-Sammy-Hagar/?isbn=9780062009289

We'll keep you posted as the promotional schedule gets confirmed. Stayed tuned to Redrocker.com for the latest schedule.

Official site: www.redrocker.com/

Stan Bush new single now available

Stan Bush whose 'Dream the Dream' album was much welcomed by melodic rock fans around the world, has "Heat of the Battle" now made available for download in iTunes! Check it out! http://tinyurl.com/26jtbhj

For all things Stan Bush go to: http://stanbush.com/

Well folks, that's really it, nothing else much around that I can share.

Take care, be safe and if you're going to have a drink, let someone else drive or crash someone's place for the night! :)

Merry Christmas!