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Wednesday, April 13, 2011

News Update for Wednesday 13th April, 2011

WHITESNAKE’S “FOREVERMORE” SLITHERS IN TO TOP 50 ALBUM CHARTS WORLDWIDE


Whitesnake’s brand new album FOREVERMORE released worldwide on Frontiers Records, has made its worldwide debut bowing in the Top 50 of multiple countries’ album charts. In the United States, FOREVERMORE comes in at #48 on the Billboard Top 200 Current Album chart and arrives even higher in numerous European countries. FOREVERMORE charts at #6 in Sweden, #11 in Finland, #15 in the Czech Republic, #16 in Germany, #17 in Switzerland, #27 in Austria, #41 in Italy and #42 in both The Netherlands and Poland, respectively.

FOREVERMORE finds founder/singer/songwriter David Coverdale and company returning to their no-holds-barred, bluesiest, sexiest rock n’ roll roots and is the band’s 11th studio album. FOREVERMORE was recorded, produced and mixed by Los Bros Brutalos (Coverdale, Doug Aldrich and Michael McIntyre). Whitesnake is David Coverdale (vocals), Doug Aldrich (guitars), Reb Beach (guitars), Michael Devin (bass) and Briian Tichy (drums).

Formed in 1977, and steered by the legendary David Coverdale, Whitesnake carry a rightful reputation as one of the world’s leading rock n’ roll bands. Coverdale’s blues roots, combined with a feral sense of rockin’ and rollin’, have consistently shaped the ‘Snake’s sound along with Coverdale’s love and appreciation of impeccable musicianship. Whitesnake’s ascent to the very top of the rock n’ roll heap was confirmed with 1987’s self-titled mega-platinum album, which saw two massive Top 10 hits, two #1 singles with “Here I Go Again” and “Is This Love” and a virtual 24-hour domination of MTV around the world.
Whitesnake on tour:

May 2011
11 May 2011 Westbury, NY, USA @ Theatre at Westbury
12 May 2011 Hartford, CT, USA @ Webster Theatre
14 May 2011 Columbia, MD, USA @ M3 Festival - Merriweather
15 May 2011 Jim Thorpe, PA, USA @ Penns Peak
18 May 2010 NYC, USA @ Irving Plaza
20 May 2011 Biloxi, MS, USA @ Hard Rock Biloxi
21 May 2011 Kinder, LA, USA @ Grand Casino Coushatta
22 May 2011 Richardson, TX, USA @ Wildflower Arts and Music
24 May 2011 Southaven, MS Snowden Grove
26 May 2011 Park City, KS, USA @ Hartman Arena
27 May 2011 Pryor, OK, USA @ Rocklahoma


June 2011
02 June 2011 Moscow, Russia @ Megasport Arena
04 June 2011 St. Petersburg, Russia @ Icearena
06 June 2011 Helsinki, Finland @ Icehall
08 June 2011 Oslo, Norway @ Sentrum Scene
10 June 2011 Solvesborg, Sweden @ Sweden Rock Festival
13 June 2011 Newcastle, UK @ City Hall
14 June 2011 Glasgow, UK @ O2 Academy
16 June 2011 Wolverhampton, UK @ Civic
17 June 2011 Manchester, UK @ Apollo
19 June 2011 Bournemouth, UK @ BIC
20 June 2011 London, UK @ Hammersmith Apollo
22 June 2011 Milano, Italy @ Gods of Metal
23 June 2011 Basel - St. Jakob, Switzerland @ Sonisphere Festival
25 June 2011 Dessel, Belgium @ Graspop
27 June 2011 Munich, Germany @ Zenith
28 June 2011 Prague, Czech Rep. @ Saska Arena
29 June 2011 Vienna, Austria @ Stadthalle

July 2011
01 July 2011 Belgrade, Serbia @ Arena
03 July 2011 Bucharest, Romania @ Romexpo
05 July 2011 Athens, Greece @ Water Park
08 July 2011 Sofia, Bulgaria @ Akademik Stadium
10 July 2011 Istanbul, Turkey @ Kazlicesme Festival Site
13 July 2011 Budapest, Hungary @ Millenaris Theater
15 July 2011 Singen, Germany @ Hohentwiel Festival
16 July 2011 Kerkrade, Holland @ Rodahal

August 2011
11 August 2011 West Allis, WI, USA @ WI State Fair
26 August 2011 Sault Saint Marie, MI, USA @ Kewadin Casino
28 August 2011 Clarkston, MI DTE Energy Music Theater

For more information please visit:


Universal Music presents
Black Sabbath
2CD Deluxe Album: "Born Again"
Release Date: 30th May 2011


Following the departure of lead singer Ronnie James Dio and drummer Vinnie Appice after the studio mixing of the 'Live Evil' album, Black Sabbath were once again on the lookout for yet another lead vocalist to fill the significant void left at stage front. The band turned to ex. Deep Purple lead singer Ian Gillan.

The resultant album and live touring certainly made for one of the more curious associations in the world of heavy metal. Much of this era of Black Sabbath has passed into rock folklore and was actually the source for much of the material used in the rockumentary movie, 'This Is Spinal Tap.' From the replica stage production of Stonehenge which was too large for some of the venues on the world tour to the employment of a dwarf to dress-up and play the part of the 'devil-baby' from the LP front cover, the world of Black Sabbath took-on a distinct air of the surreal.

Whilst the well received 'Born Again' album and live dates succeeded in stoking the embers and kept the Sabbath flames burning, this would ultimately be a marriage built more on friendship and respect as opposed to any long-standing and compatible musical association. After one tour, Ian Gillan would eventually bid farewell and re-join his old sparring partners for the Mk. II reunion of Deep Purple and leave Black Sabbath once more gazing into the crystal ball hoping the face of yet another lead vocalist would reveal itself.

For Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, Bill Ward, Ian Gillan, and keyboardist Geoff Nicholls, work would swiftly commence in May of '83 at the Manor Studios in the village of Shipton-on-Cherwell, Oxfordshire. Produced by Black Sabbath and co-producer Robin Black, who had also worked on 1975's 'Sabotage,' 1976's 'Technical Ecstasy' and 1978's 'Never Say Die,' Sabbath's eleventh studio release would represent a radical departure from the gloomy atmospherics and blackened lyricism that had forged their identity and spawned innumerable descendants.

Gillan's approach to song-writing bespoke a lighter-hearted approach to what had, until then, been the primary concern of Butler. Album-opener 'Trashed,' for instance, was inspired by Gillan's boozed-up race around the Manor's grounds in Bill Ward's car that ended in near-catastrophe and a wrecked vehicle. 'Disturbing The Priest' was the result of a door in the studio having been left open during playback, and a local vicar appearing in the doorway asking for the volume to be turned down as it was disturbing choir practice in the adjacent village.

For all of its off-kilter appearance however, 'Born Again' was still Sabbath through and through. Musically twisted and possessed with more than a whiff of brimstone, the album is a thrilling glimpse into an alternative world.

For this re-mastered Deluxe Expanded Edition, a second disc containing 2 bonus tracks is included, with 'The Fallen' being a previously unreleased studio outtake recorded during the original album session. Also included are 9 tracks from the BBC Friday Rock Show broadcast of Black Sabbath's appearance at the Reading Rock Festival in August 1983, which also includes a performance of Deep Purple's classic 'Smoke On The Water'.

Disc 1: (Original Album)
1.Trashed
2.Stonehenge
3.Disturbing the Priest
4.The Dark
5.Zero the Hero
6.Digital Bitch
7.Born Again
8.Hot Line
9.Keep it Warm

Disc 2:
Bonus Tracks:
1.The Fallen (Previously Unreleased Album Session Outtake)
2.Stonehenge (Extended Version)
Live at the Reading Festival, Saturday August 27 1983
(BBC Friday Rock Show broadcast):
3.Hot Line
4.War Pigs
5.Black Sabbath
6.The Dark
7.Zero the Hero
8.Digital Bitch
9.Iron Man
10.Smoke on the Water
11.Paranoid


Huw Lloyd - Langton "Hard Graft" To Be Released June 21



Legendary Hawkwind Guitarist Releases Lloyd Langton Group's Latest Effort
"Huw emerges from the Hawkwind shadows..." - Classic Rock Magazine

Huw Lloyd-Langton's music history spans over 40 years. He has been on the road with various bands since 1967 - all catalogued in his biography. Huw has been associated with Hawkwind so long it is sometimes hard to separate him from that amazing mother ship. But in truth, Huw has always been an independent musical gypsy. When not on the road with Hawkwind he always had his own band the LLOYD LANGTON GROUP (LLG). He achieved top 10 chart success in UK in 80s with 2 of his solo LLG albums and 2 singles. When not touring and recording with bands Huw has performed countless solo acoustic concerts.

Huw is recognized in UK as one of the finest ever rock guitarists. To the hundreds of thousands HAWKWIND fans worldwide Huw is a legend. When he appears at their concerts with LLG or as a solo acoustic artist he always receives a standing ovation.

Earlier this years Cleopatra Records released a solo classical album worldwide 'Classical Tales.' This lovely thoughtful album is a collection of short classical guitar pieces showing yet another side to Huw's talents.

Despite two serious illnesses since 2001 curtailing his work on the road he has managed to come back fighting to record and perform again. However during this period he continued his work with the Killing Cancer Charity and the mental health charity Restore. For more information, see his official website below.

Huw has been asked to perform his solo acoustic set to open 70s progressive rock band NEKTAR's month tour being planned by Cleopatra Records in USA end of July/August 2011. Huw last toured the US with WIDOWMAKER in 1976 then 1977. Both their albums were in the top 50 national charts.

Physical copies of Huw's new LLG album 'Hard Graft' have only been released in UK receiving great reviews in the press and on-line media. He has also collected rave reviews on various radio stations. One of Huw's solo acoustic blues tracks on 'Hard Graft,' "So Long Baby," reached number 1 spot on EKR Radio September 2010.


Win a trip to the world premiere of AC/DC Live At River Plate in London!




Brian Contest Intro from Columbia Records on Vimeo.


AC/DC devotees from all over the globe will descend upon London’s legendary HMV Hammersmith Apollo for the exclusive world premiere of AC/DC Live At River Plate on Friday May 6, 2011.
Shot entirely in HD with 32 cameras, fans will experience the thunderous excitement and intensity of AC/DC Live At River Plate on the UK’s largest movie screen (roughly the equivalent of 4 double decker buses stacked). AC/DC Live At River Plate definitively chronicles the band’s massive Black Ice World Tour and the history of one of rock music’s best live acts. Fans can enter for a chance to win tickets to this once in a lifetime event here!
http://iwasthere.acdc.com/

For more details on AC/DC go to: http://www.acdc.com/

And finally ...

Sade Spins Thin Lizzy Cover On Her Ultimate Collection

Believe it or not, Gibson.com has posted the following killer cover of Thin Lizzy by Sade.




Long-running R&B singer Sade will be covering a track by Thin Lizzy on her upcoming album. The British-Nigerian performer will contribute her version of “Still in Love with You” to a greatest hits package titled 'The Ultimate Collection.' The album spans the “Smooth Operator” crooner’s career and will be available May 3.


The announcement caught Thin Lizzy guitarist Scott Gorham off guard. “[I] thought I’d never read anything with Thin Lizzy and Sade in the same sentence,” he said, according to Blabbermouth.net

And yet, this isn’t the only instant of a Sade / hard rock crossover. On Record Store Day (April 16), Deftones will be releasing a full album of covers, including their version of Sade’s “No Ordinary Love.”
Now, if only Thin Lizzy would cover a Deftones track, the triumvirate would be complete!
Editor's Note: 'Relax folks, that ain't going to happen!'

Credit where credit is due, I actually admit, it's not a bad version, really! Al

So there you go folks, sorry for the lack of updates lately, just been crazy at work the last couple of days and outside of work, so just trying to do what I can here at 'Chambers of Rock.'
Thanks for sticking with it folks, Cheers, Al.






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Sunday, April 10, 2011

Brian Robertson – Diamonds and Dirt album review

Brian Robertson – Diamonds and Dirt album review
Released on: SPV Steamhammer. Release date: Available now


The playing style of Brian ‘Robbo’ Robertson, has always appealed to me, since the old Thin Lizzy days in the 70’s - Wow, yes! That long ago! - and on other projects he'd worked on too.

When he left Lizzy or was pushed, soon after he formed Wild Horses with former Rainbow bassist, Jimmy Bain and initially Jimmy McCulloch (Ex-Wings, Stone the Crows) and Kenney Jones (Small Faces), but that was at the start and didn’t last long.
Soon after, Jones and McCulloch were gone and a couple of unknowns – At the time – in Neil Carter (Guitars / Keyboards / Vocals) and Clive Edwards on drums joined the band and they recorded ‘The First Album,’ produced by Trevor Rabin.
It really wasn’t bad, in my books and I caught the band when they toured the UK with Ted Nugent, on his ‘Scream Dream’ tour.
Another album ‘Stand Your Ground’ with John Lockton replacing Carter who had joined UFO and then a live album and it all seemed to dwindle away.

Robertson stunned many, when he decided to join Motorhead, which still dumbfounds me, to this day.

He did release a five track E.P., under the name ‘The Clan’ titled ‘That’s All’ a few years back, with the guys from Limehouse Lizzy (UK top Thin Lizzy tribute act.) helping him out and in fact, three of the tracks from that show up again here.

A few guest appearances here and there happened thereafter until the last time I saw him, was playing at Gary Moore’s (RIP) ‘One Night In Dublin, A Tribute to Phillip Lynott.’

So here he is, with a very impressive entourage playing alongside him. Check out Europe’s Ian Haugland (Drums), a couple of lead vocalists in Leif Sundin (Ex-MSG) and Rob Lamothe (The Riverdogs), the very talented Liny Wood on B/Vocals, piano from Chris Antblad, bass from Nalley Påhlsson (Treat) and more ...
He’s also got a couple of Lizzy numbers redone here too, but don’t be expecting a Lizzy like album, it’s not.

The album opens with the almost Wild Horses like title track, ‘Diamonds and Dirt,’ which I really like and the music and vocals all have a really nice balance and Liny Wood’s presence is felt here well and I think it’s Leif Sundin. Robbo applies some fine licks here too, I like it!

‘Passion’ next again is kind of reminiscent of Wild Horses, but also has a bluesy groove too. I really like the way the vocal harmonizing throughout is applied too, nice! Nice guitar work again from the main man to prove he’s not lost his touch.

OK, this is the second time I’ve heard ‘It’s Only Money’ redone over the past twelve months, as John Norum did a great version of it too on his last album and this is equally impressive.
Really like the addition of the harmonics in there too!

Can’t help being reminded of ‘I Can’t Explain’ with ‘Mail Box’ next, which has a catchy groove to it, as a steady rocker.

OK, Lizzy fans, calm down here, as Robbo decides to give ‘Running Back’ – From 'Jailbreak' – the Status Quo twelve bar touch!
It’s funny though, because it actually works alright. Some nice honky tonk piano from Chris Antblad too!

Part of really helps me enjoy this, is that I’m reminded of that certain familiar guitar tone from Robbo and ‘Texas Wind’ sounds great as an up tempo, hooky rocker and again he shines well with his guitar work. A little like ‘Stand Your Ground’ (Wild Horses) at times though.

‘Devil In My Soul,’ is a slow grooving bluesy number, with the guitar accented by some tasteful Hammond organ.

Next we have the three tracks back to back, that Robbo did with The Clan on his E.P., the first being chug along rocker, ‘Do It ‘til We Drop,’ then it’s the Lynott / Robertson co-write, ‘Blues Boy’ that is really exactly as it sounds, a lengthy blues rocker.
Some nice touches though without doubt.

The hard, yet steady rocking ‘That’s All’ is next and it’s without doubt a fuller sound than on the original E.P.
Kind of reminds me a little like Bad Company at times.

With an almost Lou Reed type vocal, '10 Miles To Go, On A 9 Mile Road,’ is an interesting addition. Still not sure what to make of this one, I think it’s meant to be tongue in cheek …, but I could be wrong?!

OK, ‘Running Back’ here for the second time, only this time the twelve bar groove has been slowed down. ‘Nuff said!

The Frankie Miller written, ‘I Ain’t Got No Money’ is next and close the album nicely, it’s got a great blues groove that still rocks at a steady pace.

So this album … To me, it’s a fairly easy going affair, pretty pleasant stuff, some steady rock ‘n’ roll, nothing too crazy, nothing too heavy, just a good steady album that’s a pleasure to listen to.

Rating: 3.75 out of 5

Links:


 
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Brief Update for Sunday 10th April, 2011






STYX AND YES CO-HEADLINING “PROGRESSIVE U.S. TOUR”
SET TO KICK OFF JULY 4

April, 2011 -- Multi-platinum rock band STYX joins forces with the world's most quintessential prog-rock band YES for a summer tour extravaganza. These two monster rock bands will embark on the 22-city “Progressive U.S. Tour” starting July 4th and concluding August 3rd in Mountain View, CA. Tickets will go on sale starting the weekend of April 8th.

(Styx Photo credit Ash Newell)


STYX - Tommy Shaw (vocals, guitars), James “JY” Young (vocals, guitars), Lawrence Gowan (vocals, keyboards), Todd Sucherman (drums) and Ricky Phillips (bass), along with the occasional surprise appearance by original bassist Chuck Panozzo — has an unmistakable sound all their own, and they continue to prove that they’re one of the hardest working bands in the music world thanks to a vigorous tour schedule that keeps them constantly on the road all across the globe.

YES – The Legendary, Grammy® Award winning prog-rock band that has defined many a generation -- will be on tour in support of their new album FLY FROM HERE on Frontiers Records releasing July 12th.

YES features a lineup of guitarist Steve Howe, bassist Chris Squire, drummer Alan White, and lead singer Benoit David. YES will be reuniting with keyboard player Geoff Downes (Yes, Asia, The Buggles) for this tour.

(Yes Photo credit Rob Shanahan)


"When I first heard YES, I knew that the music world was forever changed,” says STYX singer/guitarist Tommy Shaw. “They took progressive rock to a place that had never been expressed in such an impressive yet accessible way. Who among you didn't make it a point to learn the acoustic guitar intro to ‘Roundabout?’ We're very excited to tour with them for the very first time."
“We are excited to have STYX on tour with us. I consider them to be in the vein of YES and the cutting edge of prog-rock in America,” says YES founder/bassist Chris Squire.

STYX is currently putting the finishing touches on REGENERATION, VOLUME 2, the follow-up to 2010’s seven-song EP, REGENERATION, VOLUME 1, which contains six newly re-recorded classics-- "Come Sail Away,” "Crystal Ball," "Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man),” “Lorelei,” “The Grand Illusion” and “Sing For The Day” — and a brand new track, “Difference In The World.”
The track listing for REGENERATION, VOLUME 2 is: “Renegade,” “Blue Collar Man,” “Too Much Time On My Hands,” “Queen of Spades,” “Coming Of Age” (Damn Yankees), “High Enough” (Damn Yankees), “Snowblind,” “Miss America.” Both volumes will be available for sale at every stop along the tour route.

FLY FROM HERE is the first album YES has recorded for close to a decade and was produced by the legendary Trevor Horn in the spirit that YES was founded. The return of Horn along with the Maestro’s that make up YES has brought back the fluid freedom that their music’s ingenuity is best known for. YES holds a shrewd insight and creative vision that challenges audiences as they stretch the boundaries of music.

YES’ performance will feature the title track from their new album FLY FROM HERE as well as the hugely successful and indelible catalogue of music from hit albums such as DRAMA, FRAGILE, CLOSE TO THE EDGE and 90125. Classics such as “Roundabout,” a seminal hit which consistently appears on “the best songs of all-time” lists, and the group’s #1 hit “Owner of a Lonely Heart” are sure to be featured for an evening of music not to be missed.

Spawned from a suburban Chicago basement in the early ‘70s, STYX would eventually transform into the virtual arena rock prototype by the late '70s and early '80s, due to a fondness for big rockers and soaring power ballads. Over the course of their 38-year career they’ve released 15 studio albums, 6 best-of compilations and 4 live albums, garnering 8 Top Ten singles. STYX has sold over 30 million albums worldwide. Throughout their illustrious career, they’ve performed more live shows since 1999 than all of the previous years of its career combined. Two Super-Bowl appearances, Pollstar box office chart-topping tours with Def Leppard, Journey, Boston, REO Speedwagon and Bad Company (to name only a few), two more studio albums and no end in sight, STYX continues to conquer the planet, one venue at a time.

YES’ remarkable career has served to re-define the boundaries of rock for more than four decades, YES has played the role as a dominant driving music force selling over 30 million albums, reaching platinum status multiple times worldwide. Their symphonic use of sound and innovative musical styles have made each of the group’s player’s a virtuoso in his own right.
DATE VENUE CITY

**Additional dates including details of July 4th kick-off to be announced.**

July 2011
Tuesday, July 5 PNC Bank Arts Center Holmdel, NJ+
Thursday, July 7 CMAC Performing Arts Center Canandaigua, NY+
Friday, July 8 MGM Grand Theatre at Foxwoods Resort Mashantucket, CT*
Saturday, July 9 Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion Gilford, NH*
Monday, July 11 Nikon @ Jones Beach Theater Wantagh, NY+
Tuesday, July 12 Bethel Woods Center for the Arts Bethel, NY+
Thursday, July 14 Verizon Wireless Amp at Encore Park Alpharetta, GA*
Friday, July 15 Amphitheater at the Wharf Orange Beach, AL+
Saturday, July 16 The Woods at Fontanel Nashville, TN*
Monday, July 18 Starlight Theatre Kansas City, MO*
Tuesday, July 19 Verizon Wireless Music Center Noblesville, IN*
Wednesday, July 20 DTE Energy Music Theatre Clarkston, MI+
Friday, July 22 Winstar Casino Thackerville, OK+
Saturday, July 23 Zoo Amphitheatre Oklahoma City, OK*
Sunday, July 24 Verizon Wireless Amphitheater Maryland Heights, MO*
Tuesday, July 26 Red Rocks Amphitheatre Morrison, CO*
Thursday, July 28 Eagle River Pavilion Boise, ID*
Friday, July 29 Chateau Ste. Michelle Woodinville, WA+
Saturday, July 30 Maryhill Winery Goldendale, WA+

August 2011
Tuesday, August 2 Greek Theatre Los Angeles, CA+
Wednesday, August 3 Shoreline Amphitheater Mountain View, CA*

* Denotes STYX closes
+ Denotes YES closes

For additional ticket information please visit: http://www.styxworld.com/ or http://www.yesworld.com/



HEAVY METAL GREATS THE RODS RETURN WITH A "VENGEANCE"! MAY 24TH AND CONFIRM EUROPEAN TOUR DATES WITH DIO DISCIPLES



One band that many veteran metal heads feel should have hit the big time was New York's The Rods. Comprised of members David "Rock" Feinstein (guitar/lead vocals), Garry Bordonaro (bass/vocals), and Carl Canedy (drums/vocals), The Rods would go on to open arena shows for such renowned groups as Iron Maiden, Twisted Sister, Judas Priest, Ozzy Osbourne (the 'Blizzard of Oz' tour), the Scorpions, Rainbow (Joe Lynn Turner era), and during the mid '80s, even had a then-unknown Metallica opening a headlining tour for them. Add to it the fact that Feinstein is the cousin of the late/great Ronnie James Dio (both played together in Elf) and Canedy is an acclaimed metal producer (having worked on classic early releases by etc.), and it makes it even more baffling why The Rods never got their due.

But this appears to changing quickly, as the trio has signed on with the Niji Entertainment Group, a label that was created by Ronnie James Dio and his wife/manager, Wendy Dio. The band's seventh release overall (and sixth release overall for Niji) is titled 'Vengeance,' and will be released on May 24th, 2011. The release comes hot on the heels of Feinstein's recently-released solo album, 'Bitten by the Beast.'

The first single off 'Vengeance' will be "The Code," which features vocals from none other than Ronnie James Dio (one of the very last songs that Ronnie ever recorded, before his untimely death in May of 2010).

As renowned Quiet Riot/Ozzy/Dio/Whitesnake/Blue Oyster Cult bassist Rudy Sarzo remembers, "The Rods opened up for Ozzy during the 1981 'Blizzard Of Oz' tour. I was blown away by their no holds barred metal onslaught performance and became an instant fan!" With a full US tour planned for the summer, fans will soon be able to experience the mighty metal of the Rods first hand themselves.
'Vengeance' Track Listing:

1. "RAISE SOME HELL
2. "I JUST WANNA ROCK"
3. "REBELS HIGHWAY"
4. "RIDE FREE OR DIE"
5. "THE CODE" (Featuring Ronnie James Dio)
6. "LIVIN' OUTSIDE THE LAW"
7. "LET IT RIPP"
8. "FIGHT FIRE WITH FIRE"
9. "MADMAN"
10. "RUNNIN WILD"
11. "VENGEANCE"


The Rod's on tour with Dio Disciples in Europe 2011:

Sat 6/11 East Midlands, UK
Download Festival


Sun 6/12 Newcastle, UK
Academy


Tue 6/14 Glasgow, Scotland
Garage


Wed 6/15 Wolverhampton, UK
Sleigh Rooms


Thu 6/16 Manchester, UK
Academy 2


Fri 6/17 London, UK
Islington Academy


Sun 6/19 Uden, Netherlands
De Pul


Mon 6/20 Aschafensburg, Germany
Colos Saal


Tue 6/21 Hamburg, Germany
Markthalle


Wed 6/22 Berlin, Germany
C Club


Fri 6/24 Dessel, Belgium
Graspop


Sat 6/25 Bochum, Germany
Matrix


Mon 6/27 Vienna, Austria
Szene Wien


Tue 6/28 Lucerne, Switzerland
Konzerthaus Schuur

For more information, visit http://www.therods.com/


New album from former Toto vocalist Joseph Williams
New album "Williams/Friestedt" is coming up May 27th 2011


AOR HEAVEN http://www.metalheaven.net/html/home.html

First teaser video at You Tube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FckxHK5GpE4

In Studio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BnKR5sJdF4k
In Studio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3jBijFjNRA

TOTO singer Joseph Williams and acclaimed guitarist/songwriter Peter Friestedt team up for a new remarkable AOR release! The record combines Williams' outstanding vocal performances with Friestedt's top notch guitar work and superbly crafted arrangements.
Joseph Williams was the lead vocalist with Toto during the mid-to-late 1980s (“Fahrenheit”, 1986 and “The Seventh One” – 1988). He also has been busy as a composer of film and drama scores, as a session vocalist, backing singer for the band Chicago and can be heard in Disney’s animated feature film “The Lion King” as singing voice of the adult Simba (“Hakuna Matata” and “Can You Feel The Love Tonight”).
Guitarist, composer, producer, major label recording artist Peter Friestedt has released two critically acclaimed albums “LA Project” (2002) and “LA Project II” (2008) that got top reviews and were called ‘best Westcoast records’ in years. Peter has recently toured with Chicago singer Bill Champlin, Toto singer Joseph Williams and Michael Ruff.
"Working with Joseph is always a treat, we’ve been doing concerts in Scandinavia together and during this period the idea of doing a whole record together was brought up", Peter comments and continues: "It's been an exciting process making this record. The great contributions and dedicated work from songwriters and musicians resulted in a record exceeding all expectations".

Joseph's extraordinary vocals beautifully shine with impeccable background vocals arranged by Joseph, Bill Champlin and Lars Säfsund (Work Of Art). The line-up includes guests such as former CHICAGO singer Bill Champlin, Tommy Denander, John "JR" Robinson, Randy Goodrum and Bill Cantos. "Williams/ Friestedt” was produced by Peter Friestedt and co-produced by Joseph Williams with executive production handled by Joey Carbone; mixed by Ronni Lahti (Talisman, Lake Of Tears) and mastered by Björn Engelmann (Rammstein, Roxette). During Summer 2011, Joseph Williams once again will tour as lead vocalist with Toto.
Official weblinks:
http://www.peterfriestedt.com/
http://josephwilliams.totoweb.org/


Some news briefs ...


TOTO to film Concert DVD for Summer 2011 Tour
 
Toto plan to memorialize the 2011 European Tour by filming an upcoming show this summer. This DVD is scheduled to be released later this year in place of the footage filmed in 2010.
Official band website:
http://www.toto99.com/


Brian Howe Update

Ex-Bad Company / Ted Nugent frontman Brian Howe, has this weekend told me that when he had said before, he was only doing an E.P. and then sticking to road work, that could all change! Good stuff!
Brian has again been working with Brooks Paschal, who helped him write so many good songs on 'Circus Bar,' that the plans for an E.P. could now become an album!
This is indeed good news, as I though 'Circus Bar' had so much good stuff for everyone!
Right now, the E.P. is complete and Brian is weighing up, do I just go with the E.P. for now or put the songs toward the album, that seems to be developing?
I'm hopeful he'll stick with the latter! Go Brian mate!
Facebook page - The one that is most up to date!
www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=607475916
Official website - Not so much updated:
http://www.brianhowe.com/


"Let Your Hair Down" New Album from the Steve Miller Band. Set for April 19 release on Miller's own Space Cowboy Records.



Following last year’s No.1 blues album, “Bingo!,” recently nominated as blues rock album of the year by the Blues Foundation, the Steve Miller Band follows that success with another new album, “Let Your Hair Down,” due April 19 from Space Cowboy/LoudandProud/Roadrunner Records.
Editors Note: What a great album cover!

“Let Your Hair Down” features the last recordings by harmonica virtuoso Norton Buffalo, Miller’s “partner in harmony” for thirty-three years. Noted Pink Floyd album cover artist Storm Thorgerson, who also did the wonderfully whimsical cover to “Bingo!,” returns to “Let Your Hair Down” with one of the great album covers of his career. Miller, whose new album shines with some of the finest guitar playing he has ever recorded,
To launch the release of “Let Your Hair Down” in high style, Miller also plans a series of theater and small arena dates in mid-April through the South and East Coast with Gregg Allman, whose new solo album, “Low Country Blues,” is one of the best-received releases of his career, a combination that could produce some rip-roaring jam sessions onstage.

The new album caps one of the busiest years of Miller’s accomplished career. In addition to the release last year of the acclaimed first new Steve Miller Band album in seventeen years (“cause for celebration,” said The Huffington Post), Miller not only led a sold out tour across the United States and Canada, but returned to Europe for the first time in more than twenty-five years for a triumphant round of dates culminating in a sold out Royal Albert Hall concert in London, filmed for DVD release.

One of rock music’s all-time greats, the Steve Miller Band has sold more than 30 million records in a career spanning more than 40 years. His trademark blues-rock sound made him one of the key artists in classic rock radio. He is the Gangster of Love. Some people call him Maurice, the Midnight Toker or the Space Cowboy. And, as “Let Your Hair Down” so aptly demonstrates, Stevie “Guitar” Miller still speaks in the pompitus of love. (back)
Official website:

http://www.stevemillerband.com/
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Friday, April 8, 2011

News Update for Friday 8th April, 2011

Sorry for no news yesterday folks, hopefully today's makes up for it ... Cheers, Al 

The future of Y&T - A Note from Dave Meniketti

Y&T have been a band that I persoanlly have always appreciated since I first heard title track 'Meanstreak,' from the album of the same name, released in 1983.
I bought that album and wanted more! I then picked up 'Black Tiger' - the album prior to 'Meanstreak' and thought, 'Wow! These guys are good! Why haven't I checked them out before?!'
I've since got to see the band live two or three times now and Dave Meniketti, what a leader and a trooper, great player and it's clearly from his heart, it really is, go and see them!

The band actually began as Yesterday and Today back in 1972, yes, really and released their first, self titled album in 1976 and to be honest it's all just grown ever since.
Nowadays, Dave Meniketti is the only original member and following the death a few months back of
Phil Kennemore -who was a member from 1974, until the band first disbanded in 1991, then rejoined the band in 1995 until this year. - he has started to reflect on whether or not to continue Y&T and has issued this statement:


'I have been thinking a lot in the last 8 months as to how I would feel about Y&T and what might happen to this band when Phil were to pass. I've had so many feelings and scenarios that have gone on in my head, tearing at me in many different ways, but I always seemed to come back to the same conclusion. However, before I was prepared to make any hard and fast decisions I also wanted to know how Phil felt about this as well. So we talked about this exact thing, alone, during his last months of life on this planet. I suspected what he would have said, but I wanted to hear it from his lips and feel it from his heart. Put simply, Phil expressed to me with no uncertainty that he wished Y&T to go on, no matter what happened to him. I understood, because we are lifetime Y&T people and lifelong musicians. This is what we know and where we have received much of our joy throughout our lives. There is so much of us invested in Y&T, and I don't mean monetarily, but emotionally and spiritually. This band has always had a special life force that is hard to describe, but has had a hold on us for almost 4 decades. This relationship we have had with ourselves, the band members, and the fans is what everyone always hopes for in their lives - a job to be proud of and look forward to.'

'Now, having said that I also questioned any decision to continue, regardless of all of the above, simply because I know how I had felt about other bands that have continued to play with only 1 remaining original member and wondered if I wasn't going to be a hypocrite by holding this band to a different criteria. Well maybe I am, but the bottom line, as many of us have come to as a life lesson, is that many times you can't truly understand a situation until you actually experience it first hand.'

'So . . . with current experiences in hand, I have made my decision to continue with Y&T. As quickly as I say this, I am also a realist, and if the fans seem to lose interest in the band, so be it, I will move on and do something else. However, if we continue to go along how it has been without Phil so far, then I feel privileged to continue to bring the music to the people, along with John, Mike and Brad.'

'I know that some have already said and will continue to say "The band isn't the same any longer", etc, etc. I don't need to elaborate, you all know what folks will say and have said, in front of us and in private. I understand it because I've heard it all before - in fact on and off for the last 25 years, since we let - Original drummer - Leonard (Haze), Joey (Alves - Guitarist) and others go throughout our long career. Though it's been a dagger thrown at us for many years, we learned to deal with it.'
'I've always known that no one else can answer for what I do with my life but myself. Certainly no anonymous person on the net is going to influence how I go about my decisions, which is as it should be. Negative opinions cast from persons that are not directly or deeply invested in another's life can't actually offer anything more than an opinion from a position of little actual understanding. As such I take these with little credence. We are all responsible for our decisions, and if we do what feels right and make decisions done with the best of intentions, then I believe we can go forward with little reservations and in good conscience, and let the rest go by the wayside.'

'The bottom line in all of this is that if the band weren't up to the task of presenting a valid and compelling show every night, then I wouldn't be inspired to go forward, no matter the other reasons. But the plain fact is that this band in it's current form is as good a band as Y&T has ever been. Sure, different in ways from previous iterations of the band, but equally as good, if not better with what experience brings to seasoned performers. We mean business and our passions are still on that stage with every performance.'

'So come on out to the shows and let's share in some great moments together. Now, more than ever, we all need to have some happy and positive experiences in our lives and music is one of those things that has the ability to deliver that in spades, especially at a live performance.'

'There's nothing that says it better than as Phil so eloquently coined on our new CD - 'On With The Show!'
Cheers,
- Dave'

Editor's note: Great news Dave, thanks! I for one will be looking forward to the next time Y&T hits Detroit!
Official site for Y&T: http://meniketti.com/



Uriah Heep 'Nail On The Head' video from forthcoming album 'Into The Wild'

British rockers Uriah Heep, who are soon to release their latest album, 'Into the Wild,' through Frontiers records, have a new video available of 'Nail On The Head (Official Video)'
Here you go! - Direct link below this 'reduced' - Sorry! - size screen.

 
Direct link to You Tube video:
Taken from the forthcoming album "Into the Wild"


Out on April the 15th 2011 in Europe and on May the 3rd 2011 in North America.
Official weblinks:


DEF LEPPARD 'MIRRORBALL' live album tracklisting and release dates

Def Leppard, Britain's greatest arena rock band, are set to release a brand new live album, "MIRRORBALL", this summer featuring a mix of live Def Leppard classics (recorded throughout The Sparkle Lounge Tour), three brand new studio songs and a bonus DVD that contains energetic live performances and intimate backstage footage captured on the road. "MIRRORBALL" is Def Leppard's first ever live album and features rock classics such as "ANIMAL", "POUR SOME SUGAR ON ME", "PHOTOGRAPH", "NINE LIVES" and "ROCK OF AGES".
The album also brings together three brand new studio tracks - "UNDEFEATED", "KINGS OF THE WORLD" and "IT'S ALL ABOUT BELIEVIN'" taking their place with ease within this classic setlist.

Full tracklisting is as follows:

DISC 1:
1. Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop)
2. Rocket
3. Animal
4. C'Mon C'Mon
5. Make Love Like A Man
6. Too Late For Love
7. Foolin'
8. Nine Lives
9. Love Bites
10. Rock On

DISC 2:
1. Two Steps Behind
2. Bringin' On The Heartbreak
3. Switch 625
4. Hysteria
5. Armageddon It
6. Photograph
7. Pour Some Sugar On Me
8. Rock Of Ages
9. Let's Get Rocked
10. Action
11. Bad Actress
12. Undefeated (new studio track)
13. Kings Of The World (new studio track)
14. It's All About Believin' (new studio track)

"MIRRORBALL" will also be available online, marking the first time the band's music will officially be made available for digital purchase. Def Leppard will also be releasing their new community based website in May, which is being developed to be the ultimate Def Leppard fan experience and go- to destination for all things on the band.

Def Leppard remain one of the world's biggest and most successful live acts. The band last played the UK and Eire in 2009 - headlining Download Festival that year after a hugely successful sold out UK Arena tour in 2008. 2011 will see Def Leppard headline Download Festival for the second time in three years. The band will also play Arena shows in both Dublin and Belfast with legendary special guests Alice Cooper and Thin Lizzy. Full details below:

June 2011
Tues 7th June 2011 - The Odyssey Arena, Belfast, N. Ireland
Wed 8th June 2011 - The O2, Dublin, Eire
Fri 10th June 2011 - Download Festival, UK

Belfast and Dublin tickets are priced £41.50 (Belfast) E59.50 (Dublin) - (subject to booking fee)
In person: From 100 Ticketmaster Outlets Nationwide
By Telephone (24 Hour): ROI - 0818 719 300, Northern Ireland - 0844 277 44 55

The Odyssey Arena, Belfast. Odyssey Arena Box Office: Tel. 02890 739074

Download tickets are onsale now.
For information please refer to http://www.downloadfestival.com/

With more than 65 million albums sold worldwide and two prestigious Diamond Awards (Def Leppard are one of only five rock bands to have two consecutive 10 million plus selling albums in the U.S. - the others are The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and Van Halen) to their credit, Def Leppard - Joe Elliott (vocals), Phil Collen (guitar), Rick "Sav" Savage (bass), Vivian Campbell (guitar) and Rick Allen (drums) - continue to be one of the most important forces in rock music. Over the course of their career, the band has produced a series of classic groundbreaking albums that set the bar for generations of music fans and artists alike. The group's spectacular live shows, filled with powerful melodic rock anthems, continue to sell out venues worldwide. Their epic live show and arsenal of hits have become synonymous with their name, leading Def Leppard to be heralded as an institution in both the music and touring industry.

"MIRRORBALL" will be released through Bludgeon Riffola/Mailboat Records. For dates, see below:
Germany / Switzerland / Austria - June 3
UK & Europe - June 6
North America - coming this summer, exact date to be announced

 
Dio Disciples are here, featuring ex-Dio members


“There’s No Sign Of The Morning Coming, You’ve Been Left On Your Own, Like A Rainbow In The Dark” - Ronnie James Dio

There will never be another Ronnie James Dio but we wanted to keep his music alive!

Dio Disciples are:

Simon Wright (AC/DC, Dio, UFO, Michael Schenker Group and Rhino Bucket) has played drums in Dio since 1990’s “Lock Up The Wolves” album.

On guitar is longtime Dio member Craig Goldy (Rough Cutt, Giuffria, David Lee Roth, Dio) who made his Dio debut on 1985’s “Sacred Heart” album.

On keyboards is 15 year Dio and Heaven & Hell veteran Scott Warren. Scott made his Dio debut on 1996’s “Angry Machines” album.

On bass is the multi-talented James LoMenzo (Megadeth, Black Label Society, Slash's Snake Pit, HAIL!, White Lion and David Lee Roth).

On vocals is Tim “Ripper” Owens (Judas Priest, Yngwie Malmsteen's Rising Force, Beyond Fear, Iced Earth, Hail! and Charred Walls of the Damned)
Joining “Ripper” on vocals from Manchester, UK is Toby Jepson (Little Angels, Fastway, Gun and Toby and the Whole Truth).

Because of Rudy Sarzo’s commitment to B.O.C., James LoMenzo will join the band for their European dates until Rudy fulfills his commitment to Blue Oyster Cult

We hope that you will support the band and become a Dio Disciple!
Thanks,
Wendy Dio

DIO DISCIPLES 2011 EUROPEAN TOUR

June 2011
Wed 6/08 Moscow, Russia, A2 Club
Thu 6/09 St. Petersburg, Russia Kosmonayt
Fri 6/10 Tampere, Finland Sauna Open Air Festival
Sat 6/11 East Midlands, UK Download Festival
Sun 6/12 Newcastle, UK Academy
Tue 6/14 Glasgow, Scotland Garage
Wed 6/15 Wolverhampton, UK Sleigh Rooms
Thu 6/16 Manchester, UK Academy 2
Fri 6/17 London, UK Islington Academy
Sun 6/19 Uden, Netherlands De Pul
Mon 6/20 Aschafensburg, Germany Colos Saal
Tue 6/21 Hamburg, Germany Markthalle
Wed 6/22 Berlin, Germany C Club
Fri 6/24 Dessel, Belgium Graspop
Sat 6/25 Bochum, Germany Matrix
Mon 6/27 Vienna, Austria Szene Wien
Tue 6/28 Lucerne, Switzerland Konzerthaus Schuur

Plus more dates to follow!

The LEGENDARY BAND The Rods join the tour starting on 6/11-6/28!




DOWN 'N' OUTZ live DVD,
"LIVE AT THE HAMMERSMITH ODEON" is coming soon!


Down 'N' Outz live DVD shot at the HMV Hammersmith Apollo Hammersmith Odeon - It will ALWAYS be know as Hammy Odeon, by those that remember those days! - in London on October 6th 2009, when the band opened for the reunited Mott The Hoople, the DVD will be first available at merchandise stands at shows on the British Paul Rodgers / Down 'n' Outz tour (April 2011). A limited edition of only 500 copies will be made available initially, all of which personally signed and numbered by lead singer, Joe Elliott (Def Leppard), and signed by the rest of the band - The Ouireboys - as well.
Any remaining copies, and a regular (unsigned) version will be available through our web site shortly after the tour.
For details on the Down 'N' Outz tour with Paul Rodgers and more, check out the bands website:

The DVD tracklisting is as follows:

1. Golden Opportunity
2. Overnight Angels
3. One More Chance To Run
4. Storm
5. Shouting And Pointing
6. Career (No Such Thing As Rock 'n' Roll)
7. Who Do You Love
8. By Tonight
9. England Rocks
10. Good Times

Bonus material includes footage from the Dave Kilner tribute show (featuring Def Leppard bass player Rick 'Sav' Savage), three promo videos and a behind-the-scenes documentary.


TOMMY TUTONE TO RELEASE "A LONG TIME AGO" MAY 31ST ON SPV'S YELLOW LABEL

DIGITALLY REMASTERED AND REMIXED BY FRED JAMES


 
TOMMY HEATH with guitarist Jim Keller formed the band TOMMY AND THE TU-TONES. They soon shortened the name to TOMMY TUTONE and recorded for Jupiter Records in the late 1970s.
In 1980 they signed with Columbia Records and had a minor hit with "Angel Say No" later that year. This led to an opening slot touring with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.
Determined to break out with a hit, the ban spent the better part of a year writing and recording the next album "TOMMY TUTONE", which was released in late 1981. The first single "867-5309/Jenny" proved to be their breakthrough record and reached #4 on the pop charts in 1982. The song was written by Keller with Alex Call of the bay area group Clover. The two bands were closely linked and over the years swapped members and wrote songs together. Clover never had a hit record, but will be forever remembered as Elvis Costello's backing band on his debut album "My Aim Is True". TOMMY TUTONE the band released their third album for Columbia, "National Emotion" and eventually called it quits in 1984.

TOMMY continued in the music business as a songwriter and headed to Nashville, the song-writing capitol of the world, in the late eighties. He co-wrote with heavy hitters like Keith Sykes (writer for Jimmy Buffett, Rosanne Cash, etc.) and Johnny Neal (of the Allman Brothers Band).

TOMMY recorded this solo album with Nashville producer Fred James which was originally released in 1994 as "Nervous Love".

Fred has remixed, re-mastered and added extra tracks to this re-titled album. Quite to his surprise, when he dug out the old tapes he found several out-takes and alternate versions of songs. He had completely forgotten that they had tried both electric and acoustic versions of "Another Slow Dance" and "Nervous Love", and an acoustic version of the mega-hit "867-5309/Jenny.

TOMMY has a great depth of knowledge of all forms of classic American musical genres and it's a big part of what makes his song-writing so unique. So we can look forward to what he'll come up with next, but until then we have "A Long Time Ago".

For more info visit:
http://www.tutone.com/
http://www.myspace.com/spvmusic


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