Rock News for Sunday 21st February, 2010

UK Firefest Line Up Announced 

FIREFEST 2010 – PRESS RELEASE

For our 2010 show we’ve decided to go for two full days, with a slightly later start time and just seven quality bands per day. We think we’ve put together a bill that should please many devotees of melodic hard rock and have arranged several special sets to celebrate well-loved albums and anniversaries. Several acts will be making their first appearances on UK soil whilst others have been much missed and will be returning after many years away. Here are the details…...

Venue and dates

Firefest will take place on Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st October 2010 at our regular venue of Rock City in Nottingham.

Line-up

Saturday 30th October (Top to bottom)

LYNCH MOB

It’s been twenty years since ex-Dokken guitar virtuoso George Lynch last graced a UK stage. During that time he’s explored new directions and in 2009 came full circle when he re-united with original Lynch Mob singer Oni Logan to deliver the excellent ‘Smoke & Mirrors’ album. The band have had great reviews since they hit the road last year so expect an explosive set taken mostly from their latest opus and their classic ‘Wicked Sensation’ debut.

DARE

The UK melodic rockers led by Darren Wharton last graced a Firefest back in 2005 at our inaugural show and have yet to play a UK date since original guitarist Vinny Burns rejoined two years ago. Twenty-one years have passed since their classic ‘Out Of The Silence’ debut was released so it’s a great honour for us to have the band base their set around that popular record.

BONFIRE

The enduring German hard rockers have been around in one guise or another since the late 70’s but really started to make waves on both sides of the Atlantic with their classic 1987 album ‘Fireworks’. With a very special set to celebrate the album that gave Firefest’s sister magazine it’s name, Claus Lessmann, Hans Ziller and co. will play the ‘Fireworks’ record in its entirety.

SARAYA

Continuing Firefest’s proud record of providing the unexpected, the US rock band led by Sandi Saraya and Tony ‘Bruno’ Rey are back after an eighteen year hiatus. Keyboard player Gregg Munier tragically passed away in 2006 but all other original members will be present to play a set based around their melodic debut album, with a smattering of their harder edged ‘When The Blackbird Sings’ album for good measure.

BANGALORE CHOIR

Another cult US hard rock band will grace our stage in the shape of Bangalore Choir. Their 1992 debut album ‘On Target’ is well-respected for its sublime mixture of melody and crunch, and led by ex-Accept singer David Reece and guitarist Curtis Mitchell the band will play the whole record. It’ll be their first ever show in the UK and we’re sure they’ll be made very welcome.

BEGGARS & THIEVES

Two years ago singer Louie Merlino and guitarist Ron Mancuso played a short acoustic set at the Friday night meet & greet for Firefest V, so we’re delighted to welcome them back with a full band. They’re currently in the studio recording a new album so will have some new songs to play alongside the highlights from their first three records.

GRAND ILLUSION

After a break of four and a half years Sweden’s Grand Illusion have decided to give it another go. The original trio of Anders Rydholm, Peter Sundell and Per Svensson are currently recording a new album with some pretty high profile guests and with three strong releases already under their belts they have a wealth of upbeat melodic rock songs to get the party off to a good start.

Sunday 31st October (Top to bottom)

NELSON

Twins Matthew and Gunnar Nelson caused a stir in 1990 when their first single ‘(Can’t Live Without Your) Love And Affection’ reached the top of the US charts. They would go on to create several high quality albums throughout the 90’s and are applying the finishing touches to a new release called ‘Lightning Strikes Twice’ as we speak. Despite their rich heritage this will be their first ever UK show and a great coup for the Firefest team.

JIMI JAMISON

There are few voices in melodic rock as distinctive as former Survivor, Cobra and Target frontman Jimi Jamison’s. The consummate performer will at last grace a UK stage with a top class band that includes the amazing Tommy Denander on guitar, so expect a great mix of songs from his solo career (including a chunk of his recent well-received ‘Crossroads Moment’ album) and a few Survivor classics.

PRETTY MAIDS

No-one was more disappointed than we were when Denmark’s finest had their travel plans cancelled by the airline in the run-up to Firefest V. Thankfully their schedule for 2010 has presented the opportunity to book them again for a long overdue return to the UK. Ronnie Atkins, Ken Hammer and Kenn Jackson, along with a new drummer and keyboard player, have a quality back catalogue and we guarantee they’ll rock your socks off!

STRANGEWAYS

Getting cult UK melodic rock band Strangeways to play at Firefest has been a labour of love for festival organiser Kieran Dargan, so it’s with great pleasure that we can announce that he’s finally gone and done it. The bands ‘Native Sons’ and ‘Walk In The Fire’ discs are rightfully regarded as genre classics, and with a new album already started, the favoured line-up of Ian & Dave Stewart, Jim Drummond, David (Munch) Moore and the great Terry Brock are back and ready to rock.

STAGE DOLLS

Norwegian trio Stage Dolls have proven over the years to be one of the most consistent bands around, frequently re-inventing themselves with new sounds and ideas. They’ve delivered great albums in each of the three decades since they formed and will, no doubt, be one of the hits of the festival. With a new album called ‘Always’ to promote, this is yet another overdue return to these shores.

NEWMAN

It’s criminal that after over a decade of consistently good melodic rock records the UK’s own Newman is still one of our best kept secrets. Their eighth album ‘The Art Of Balance’ continues their rich vein of form with yet another collection of catchy, hard hitting songs and stellar production, and with a great band behind him Steve Newman certainly deserves a place on the main stage.

GRAND DESIGN

Swedish five-piece Grand Design came from out of nowhere last year to deliver one of the surprise releases of the year, a traditional hard rock album with multi-layered harmonies and intricate Def Leppard-influenced arrangements. All they need now is live shows to take them to the next level so we’re thrilled that they’ve chosen Firefest to start their UK assault.

Tickets & Prices

The ticket prices are as follows:

Saturday - £48.50 Sunday - £48.50 Postage at £1 extra per order Day of Show £55

Early Bird Special:

We will sell the first 250 weekend tickets (Saturday and Sunday) for £85, a saving £12. If you're bringing a partner get in early and save £24! These tickets cannot be reserved, they will be available strictly on a first come first served basis. As soon as these Early Bird tickets are sold ticket prices will revert to the standard price of £48.50 per day or £97 for both days.

Payment : via paypal to : fireworks.mag@ntlworld.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by Cheque/Postal Order/Bank Draft payable to:

Bruce Mee C/O Fireworks Office and sent to:

10 Dunnock Close Offerton

Stockport

SK2 5XD

England

Tickets will be mailed out within 21 days of order

A full list of other tickets agents will be made available shortly.

Other details:

We’d like to welcome Blackstar Amplification and AOR Heaven as new sponsors, with thanks for their contributions.

Firefest 2010 is an age 14 and over show.

A press and guest list accreditation system will be implemented soon at our website – www.thefirefest.com – could anyone wishing to apply please refrain from contacting any member of the Firefest team about accreditation at this time. Instructions will be given in a future update.

Check http://www.thefirefest.com/ regularly for updates, as well as the official myspace, facebook and twitter pages. The website will also contain hotel details and directions for those travelling into Nottingham.

All that’s left to say is thank you for your continued support and we hope the line-up and ticket prices are to your liking. See you all in October – the Firefest team.

Alice Cooper back with Theatre of Death tour

HE'S BAAAAAAAAACK!!

Ready or not, here he comes! The Master of Theatre Rock, Alice Cooper is bringing the Theatre of Death tour back on the road in 2010 with the first North American shows taking place at the Island Resort & Casino in Harris, MI, on July 9 and 10!

Of course, as all you SICK THINGS already know, more THEATRE OF DEATH can only mean one thing...more killer PRESALES, VIP PACKAGES and VIP PACKAGE UPGRADES!! We have those  only in the http://www.alicecooper.com/ Store!

The Ultimate VIP package includes:

* One ticket per person

* After-show meet & greet with Alice Cooper

* One photo with Alice (taken with your own camera)

* One exclusive Theatre Of Death 2010 VIP laminate

* One 8x12 photo of Alice Cooper (perfect for autographing!)

* One exclusive Alice Cooper t-shirt (don't forget to include your size in the comments box at the end of your purchase!)

PLUS, WHEN YOU PURCHASE THE ULTIMATE VIP PACKAGE OR VIP PACKAGE UPGRADE YOU'RE AUTOMATICALLY ENTERED TO WIN A CHANCE TO JOIN ALICE ON STAGE FOR THE SHOW'S MIND BLOWING FINALE!!

VIP Upgrade packages that do not include tickets are available if you prefer to buy your tickets separately.

NOTE: ACCESS TO THE MEET & GREET IS LIMITED TO ONE PERSON PER VIP PACKAGE OR PACKAGE UPGRADE PURCHASED. NO ADDITIONAL GUESTS (INCLUDING SPOUSES OR CHILDREN) WILL BE PERMITTED TO ACCOMPANY THE VIP TO THE MEET & GREET WITHOUT A PASS.

And this is just a taste of what Alice has up his sleeve for 2010! DO NOT FORGET to keep checking the AliceCooper.com Tour page for more shows as they are confirmed!

The Theatre Of Death 2010...

...they keep killing him...and he keeps coming back...and back, and BACK!

By the way, if you want a copy of the gig you attended for your own keepsake, after it happens, then check out here to own your event souvenier:

http://concert-online.com/en/shop/29379/home.html?X-LT&x-ac=10001

Steve Lukather at the GuitarNation Festival 2010

On Sunday May 9th Steve Lukather will contribute to the GuitarNation Festival 2010 in London. Guitar Nation 2010 is a 2 day event that will inspire musicians through discussion, masterclasses, forums, performance and clinics.

Lukather will present the masterclass ‘Session Czar to Guitar Superstar' and show exactly why what he writes and plays has become what the world listens to: recording, composing and arranging on over 1,000 albums.

More info at the website of http://www.guitarnation2010.com/

http://www.stevelukather.net/HomePage.aspx

 

Dio Tournado Box set released through website

 

DIO Tournado Limited Edition Box Sets Available 2/19/2010

We are pleased to offer to our fans the opportunity to get the DIO Tournado Box Set, Limited Edition of 1,500, signed and numbered.

Featuring:

• Killing the Dragon CD

• Evil or Divine DVD/CD

• DVD Bonus Material

• Interviews

• Photo Gallery

• Never Before Seen Behind the Scenes Footage

• Promo video for “Push”

• Bonus CD single “Elektra”

• Exclusive DIO Photo Cards

$45.00 plus shipping

$ 5.50 US

$11.00 Canada

$13.00 Rest of the World

(California residents add 9.75% sales tax)

Shipping

Shipping to USA $50.50 Shipping USA/CA residents $54.89 Shipping to Canada $56.00 Shipping Outside US/Canada $58.00

Available through *Paypal, Credit Card, Money Order or Cheque payable to:

Niji Productions, Inc.

c/o Dio Fan Club

12400 Ventura Boulevard

Suite 624

Studio City, CA 91604

This offer is for fans only

**Limit 2 per order**

*Paypal link through Dio website here: http://www.ronniejamesdio.com/

Note: DVD is in PAL format and will not play in the US or Japan DVD players

Please note on the Tournado Box Set offer ...

We test drove the Tournado Box Set, and in doing so, realized that the DVD is formatted in PAL format, and as such, will not play on US DVD players.

We apologize to the US and Japanese fans for this oversight, but these box sets were made for the European tour which was cancelled, and we did not realize that they would play in the US until we actually tried to play it.

Update - Saturday 20th February, 2010

Apologies for no news updates today folks, just been one of those days where I haven't had the time.
I will do some more updates tomorrow though. :)

FYI - Regarding the Michael Schenker competition.
I apologise for limiting who it's open to, got to watch the cash right now, but it is open to US and Canadian residents. Thanks!

Michael Schenker Group - Live and Loud CD review

Michael Schenker Group – Live and Loud

So the Michael Schenker Group, 'Live and Loud ...' Hmmm

Ah, here I was getting all excited about receiving this release, wondering quite what to expect … How disappointed I was to realise that it is simply a compilation made up of just 7 tracks, all previously issued …, that I already have. I will say this though there is an added bonus …, cough, if you can call it that of the history of Michael Schenker, in both English and German.

In actual fact, let me correct myself there. There are 6 live tracks and the studio title track from ‘Written in the Sand.’ An odd inclusion also if you ask me?!

If someone was simply looking for a reasonable, live – Albeit brief! - compilation then its OK I guess, but bearing in mind Michael Schenker’s history, you would certainly have expected the UFO classic ‘Rock Bottom’ on here for sure, but alas, no.

To be honest, this release reeks of exploitation! Maybe it’s Mr. Schenker’s ex-missus perhaps?!

The live tracks don’t come from the classic ‘One Night at Budokan’ either, so not the classic line up performing here. This is made up with tracks from ‘The Michael Schenker Story – Live’ and ‘The Unforgiven World Tour – Live,’ so nothing new here music wise, so what is there then?

The album opens with the UFO classic ‘Doctor, Doctor,’ from the ‘Unforgiven tour’ which I will say is a great live set so it’s not bad at all. Good start.

Then from the Schenker / Bonnet writing years comes ‘Assault Attack,’ which is taken from ‘The Story …’ release, which isn’t bad either.

So to ‘Written in the Sand’ an album that to be honest was OK, but to me was only that.

The track is OK, co-written by Schenker and then singer Leif Sundin.

‘Attack of the Mad Axeman’ is a very good performance next from ‘The Story’ album and one of my personal favourite M.S.G. tracks.

Then to another favourite UFO track of mine, ‘Natural Thing,’ from the same album but this version is simply alright at best.

A totally charged ‘Lights Out’ from the ‘Unforgiven’ release picks it up and is enjoyable, before final music track, ‘Captain Nemo’ which is also very respectable!

A shame and a clear indication that this compilation was simply ‘thrown’ together – Sorry, but what else can you call it?! – is that they could’ve at least tried to merge the tracks, to at least make it come across as a complete live set, but alas no.

Next are the 2 ‘History’ tracks, in English first then German.

It is interesting that it states during the history, that when Schenker left the Scorpions in ’79 it was due to exhaustion and inability to perform due to alcohol over indulgence.

It was something that was not often mentioned before, so a little surprised by this on here.

It also mentions his little known stepping into Ratt to cover for the then sick Robbin Crosby for some live shows.

It comes right up to date to talk about the 2009 US tour cancellation due to ‘visa issues.’

Nowhere anywhere on the album cover or inner sleeve is the narrator credited.

No special sleeve notes, no details – for those who don’t know – of who played on the tracks presented here, so all in all, this really is for collectors only.

That said, apparently the European version does have ‘Rock Bottom’ on it as well as a cover of ‘You Really Got Me.’ I guess not in the USA?!

I would strongly recommend to anyone wanting to hear MSG live, to go and check out ‘MSG – One Night at Budokan’ or the “Unforgiven World Tour’ set, both good in this fans opinion!

Rating: For overall validity 2 out of 5, for the material itself 4 out of 5.

OK, competition time folks! (Please note: Sorry, it's only open to US residents.)
Those kind people at MVD Entertainment have provided an additional copy of this Live and Loud release for giveaway, so here's your question:
Name 4 drummers who have played 'live' with The Michael Schenker Group?
First correct answer to me at: alun_williams@comcast.net wins!

*Breaking News* - Friday 19th February, 2010

Late Breaking News!

Whitesnake signs deal for new album with Frontiers Records

(Whitesnake photo - Alun Williams from 2009 US Tour.)

Following on from my earlier posting today concerning David Coverdale and Whitesnake and their plans for 2010, the following Press Release has just been announced.

NAPOLI, ITALY (February 19, 2010) - Frontiers Records is very proud to announce the signing of legendary rock band WHITESNAKE.

David Coverdale and band are gearing up for their latest endeavour. WHITESNAKE has already started composing new material that promises to deliver one of the finest chapters in WHITESNAKE'S career. “We are off to a very good start, with the new songs taking positive shape. It feels good, fresh & exciting,” explains Coverdale.

The next release already feels like a solid, natural progression to their last opus, the successful, critically acclaimed ‘Good To Be Bad’ album, awarded by the influential Classic Rock magazine as “Best Album of the Year” in 2008. “As always, we want to take it to the next level,” states’ Coverdale. “I feel that with the last album we achieved a strong WHITESNAKE ‘cocktail’ that comfortably embraced & mixed all the previous musical aspects & styles of the band’s history, while taking our identity a little further... all on one album..."

Born in 1977, WHITESNAKE have been among the most influential representatives of the their genre, having produced numerous rock music classics such as ‘Here I Go Again’, ‘Is This Love’, ‘Still Of The Night’, ‘Fool For Your Loving’, ‘Ain’t No Love In The Heart Of The City’ or ‘Walking In The Shadows Of The Blues’.

Coverdale said the production team for the new album will most likely be the infamous Brutal Brothers, or Los Bros Brutalos, who handled the recording of "Good To Be Bad”. “The new songs are in the very familiar and recognizable WHITESNAKE territory of soulful, bluesy, melodic power rock, with a couple of ballads thrown in for good measure... It can’t be a WHITESNAKE album without ballads, mate!”

WHITESNAKE have conquered the love and respect of the audiences all over the world with their driving shows and music. The new album promises to follow in the steps of a great heritage of solid and timeless songs.

For more information, please visit:

http://www.whitesnake.com/

and

http://www.frontiers.it/

Rock News for Friday 19th February, 2010

Heaven and Hell band Nominated for 4 Revolver Golden Gods Awards

With all that the band members in Heaven and Hell have been going through this past year, primarily the terrible discovery for Ronnie James Dio of him having stomach cancer and going through various chemo and other treatments, I guess the nomination for these Revolver awards, bring some small relief, encouragement and a little happiness.

Ronnie's wife Wendy Dio has been keeping every one up to date on Ronnie's progress on a pretty regular basis. -  http://www.ronniejamesdio.com/

Tony Iommi had to have some stem cell treament for joint problems with his right hand back in November last year. - http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/8340697.stm - Apparently he's doing much better now.

Vinny Appice has had to go through shoulder surgery also in November last year, after enduring an injury on the last Heaven and Hell tour. http://www.vinnyappice.com/news.asp

The official nominations for the Revolver Golden Gods Awards have been announced and Heaven and Hell are nominated in 4 categories! The winners are based on fan votes, with the winners to be determined by public online voting at WWW.REVOLVERMAG.COM/GOLDENGODS so make sure to get your vote counted!

The nominees are:

Ronnie James Dio, in the BEST VOCALIST category;

Tony Iommi is nominated in the BEST GUITARIST category;

Heaven and Hell, in the ALBUM OF THE YEAR category;

Heaven and Hell, in the "DON'T CALL IT A COMEBACK" category

The winners in all categories will be announced live at the 2010 REVOLVER GOLDEN GODS AWARDS SHOW at Club Nokia in Los Angeles on April 8. The show will be broadcasted on VH1 CLASSIC on May 22.

So here is your mission: Visit WWW.REVOLVERMAG.COM/GOLDENGODS and cast your vote for Ronnie, Tony and Heaven and Hell today!

3 Doors Down trying to help Team USA to 'Shine' in Winter Olympics

This latest news from the 3 Doors Down camp regarding their new single 'Shine.'

The link to purchase / download the new 3 Doors Down tune 'Shine' is here:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/shine-single/id353273844

Let me introduce you to Karnivool!

Karnivool finally released their internationally lauded full-length 'Sound Awake' in the U.S. this week and much is abuzz to celebrate the long-awaited album hitting the streets domestically.

The band line up is: Ian Kenny – Vocals, Drew Goddard – Guitars, Mark Hosking – Guitars, Jon Stockman – Bass and Steve Judd - Drums

AOL are hosting a listening party and are currently streaming the album in it's entirety in the 'New Releases' section - http://music.aol.com/new-releases-full-cds/#/4 - and 'Sound Awake' is a featured "New & Noteworthy" release on iTunes, along with sidebar highlights on Facebook and iLike.

The video for the first single for "Set Fire To The Hive" is also heading up the rock section at MTV.

Live performance of "Set Fire To The Hive" in front of 40,000 at noon on Big Day Out

Karnivool are about to hit Europe before coming back to the States for their first U.S. tour in three years. The tour will begin with multiple performaces at SXSW, including a few special ACOUSTIC sets!

Tour dates can be found here: http://www.karnivool.com.au/tours.php

Produced by Forrester Savell (The Butterfly Effect, Mammal, Dead Letter Circus), Sound Awake is kaleidoscopic, engaging & multi-dimensional. It delivers the band’s trademark sound while taking the listener to new heights as it ventures into innovative exploratory territory.

Here is what the media in general is saying about the band:

“Introducing the progressive album of the year”

- Guitarist UK

“A sprawling work of melody, mood, tempo and musicianship…A statement of Karnivool’s musical proficiency and vision, Sound Awake will make for hypnotic listening live”

- Rolling Stone (Aus)

"A hail of expansive melodies, that, when at their best are a little short of breathtaking. This is genuinely impressive stuff’

- Kerrang! (UK)

“Accomplished musicianship and adventurous songwriting…truly awe-inspiring moments”

- Rocksound (UK)

“the wait for this album was worth it…Sound Awake is out of the top drawer and should be a big success”

- Powerplay (UK)

“If you’re looking to get your socks rocked off, you don’t have to look much further than Sound Awake.”

- Elliott Politte, Guitar EDGE

"Western Australia has produced a champion of the genre sharing the podium with Isis and Mastadon. Sound Awake is quite an accomplishment."

- Bill Chenever, MXDWN

"A true masterpiece… This may be one of the best live, hard rock performances I’ve heard in my twenty years as a music professional and writer, prepare to be awakened by greatness and witness true musical brilliance. They are the real thing.”

- (10/10) Just Push Play

"This rock band has it all and their album, 'Sound Awake', proves that."

- Morgan Bonges, Static Multimedia

  "Every song a journey and unveiling new, fascinating, and compelling layers with every repeated listen... Displaying smart songwriting suss and masterful musicianship throughout, they are equally as adept when dealing in short(ish) punchy tracks or sprawling epics that crawl up inside your head and carry you off to some far away place."

- Dan Slessor, Outburn Magazine

To keep up with the band visit them at:

http://www.karnivool.com.au/

http://www.myspace.com/karnivool

 

Eagle Rock To Release 20th Anniversary Re-Issue Of

LIVE AT KNEBWORTH 2CD ~ To be Released March 23, 2010

New York, NY (February 18, 2010)—On March 23, Eagle Rock Entertainment will drop a British bombshell, when the 'Live at Knebworth' 2CD hits stores.

On June 30, 1990, the best of the Brits flooded the Knebworth House in Hertsfordshire to perform a benefit concert for Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy and the Brit School Of Performing Arts. Heralded as “The Best British Rock Concert Of All Time,” this aggregate of talent included Paul McCartney, Pink Floyd, Eric Clapton, Robert Plant, Elton John, Phil Collins, Genesis, Dire Straits, Tears For Fears, Cliff Richard & The Shadows, and Status Quo. All performing free of charge to support the charities, this incredible line-up was amassed from recipients of the prestigious Nordoff-Robbins’ Silver Clef Award, which recognizes acts who make outstanding contributions to the British music industry.

Originally released on Polydor in 1990, this 20th anniversary re-issue will continue the tradition on giving back, as sales will raise funds for both Nordoff-Robbins (the UK’s leading independent provider of music therapy) and the Brit School of Performing Arts.

Track Listing:

Disc #1:

1.) Tears For Fears – Everybody Wants To Rule The World

2.) Tears For Fears – Badman’s Song

3.) Status Quo – Dirty Water

4.) Status Quo – Whatever You Want

5.) Status Quo – Rockin’ All Over The World

6.) Cliff Richard & The Shadows – On The Beach

7.) Cliff Richard & The Shadows – Do You Wanna Dance

8.) Robert Plant – Hurting Kind

9.) Robert Plant – Liar’s Dance

10.) Robert Plant – Tall Cool One

11.) Robert Plant – Wearing And Tearing

12.) Genesis – Mama

13.) Genesis – Turn It On Again Medley: Somebody To Love / Satisfaction / Twist And Shout / Reach Out I’ll Be There / You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling / Pinball Wizard / In The Midnight House / Turn It On Again

Disc #2:

1.) Phil Collins – Sussudio

2.) Eric Clapton – Sunshine Of Your Love

3.) Dire Straits – Think I Love You Too Much

4.) Elton John – Sad Songs (Say So Much)

5.) Elton John – Saturday Night’s All Right (For Fighting)

6.) Paul McCartney – Coming Up

7.) Paul McCartney – Hey Jude

8.) Pink Floyd – Comfortably Numb

9.) Pink Floyd – Run Like Hell

David Coverdale answers questions on Whitesnake activity for 2010

 (Picture by Alun Williams from Whitesnake's 2009 tour)

Over at http://www.whitesnake.com/ the bands only original member and leader, David Coverdale has responded to various questions put to him from fans at the website.

Below are a couple of those for you. 

WS News for 2010 - Frequently Asked Questions and other things you might like to know.

Question #1: Will Whitesnake tour during 2010?

Answer from D.C.: It is unlikely that Whitesnake will tour in 2010, as we have committed to writing and recording a new studio album and delighted to report we are working with an enthusiastic, highly respected record company, whom at this time I am reluctant to name, until they wish to make their own announcement.

The album will feature all new, fresh material ...

We are off to a very good start, with the new songs taking very positive shape. At this time it feels like a solid, natural follow up to 'Good To Be Bad' ... but, taking it to the next level.

Soulful, bluesy, melodic power rock with a couple of underwear moistening, tear jerkers thrown in for good measure.

I personally feel we are off to a very strong and positive start.

At this time the plan is to resume touring in Spring 2011, to coincide with the release of the new studio album.

The tour will be a World Tour, yes, that includes YOUR country, Boys and Girls...

We also are planning to mix several other Whitesnake related projects this year that have been consistently requested by our supporters. So fingers crossed, it will be a very, very busy, creative and productive time thro' 2010.'

Q: You were forced to cancel some shows at the end of the last tour, due to a problem with your Throat. Is everything OK, now?

D.C.: My health and my voice have never been better, thank you. I am pleased with how I'm sounding on the demos of the new songs. Very secure, good tone, very powerful, no worries. Baby, none whatsoever ...

I am so disappointed that I had to cancel the show and the US tour but, these things happen ...

Fortunately, it doesn't happen a lot to me ... and the problem I had is not something that is ongoing. It was a one time problem, some kind of blister on one of my vocal cords and it hurt ...

The cure was simple ... Rest! I would have been able to tour again, had their been an opportunity, 6 weeks later.

The human voice is a very fragile instrument, no matter how well you take care of it and I assure you, I invest in every vocal protocol you can possibly imagine, ask any of my throat specialists.  

It was just one of those things ...

To read more of the Q and A's go to: http://www.whitesnake.com/

 The end perhaps for The Who?

UK Classic Rock magazine is quoting Rolling Stone magazine - Don't we all do this?! ;-) - as saying that perhaps Who guitarist Pete Townshend could be forced into retirement if he can’t find a successful treatment for his tinnitus.

Townsend is quoted as saying, “If my hearing is going to be a problem, we’re not delaying shows. We’re finished. I can’t really see any way around the issue.”

Classic Rock link: http://www.classicrockmagazine.com/news/is-this-the-end-for-the-who/

The Rolling Stone story is here:

http://www.rollingstone.com/rockdaily/index.php/2010/02/18/the-whos-future-uncertain-as-townshends-tinnitus-returns/

SingSOS for AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH

JACKSON BROWNE, DAR WILLIAMS, MARSHALL CRENSHAW, JONATHA BROOKE, TEDDY GEIGER, ARI HEST, DAN BERN AMONG ARTISTS SUPPORTING AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH IN APRIL WITH NEW CHARITY ALBUM AND NYC BENEFIT CONCERT “SONGS OF THE SPECTRUM” TO BE RELEASED TUES., APRIL 6

Dar Williams, Marshall Crenshaw, Christina Courtin, Fiona McBain of Ollabelle, The Cucumbers, Kelly Flint to Sing for Autism at New York CD Release Benefit – Wed., April 7

NEW ALBUM OF ORIGINAL SONGS ABOUT AUTISM TO BE FUNDRAISING TOOL

FOR AUTISM ORGANIZATIONS LARGE & SMALL, INCLUDES ‘E-BUNDLE’ OF AUTISM RESOURCES AND BOOK EXCERPTS

Sample the album by clicking here: http://www.singsos.org/listen.php

Watch the "Day After Day" Music Video, See Artist Video Messages and View the Cucumbers' performance of "Understanding" at the United Nations by clicking here:

http://www.singsos.org/see.php

A world-class collection of troubadours are banding together to support Autism Awareness Month in April through SONGS OF THE SPECTRUM, an all-star album of original songs about autism set for release Tuesday, April 6, 2010 through SingSOS, a new nonprofit organization formed to enlist the power of music to spread the word about autism.

Jackson Browne, Dar Williams, Marshall Crenshaw, Jonatha Brooke, Teddy Geiger, Ari Hest, Dan Bern, Richard Julian, Ollabelle, Valerie Carter, Don Dixon and Marti Jones, Christina Courtin and Mike Viola, Kelly Flint and The Cucumbers comprise the cast of established and emerging artists singing songs expressing the journey of heartbreak to the unexpected joy and understanding that comes from encountering the world of autism.

The songs are all collaborations between Jon Fried and Deena Shoshkes the husband-wife team at the heart of the veteran indie-pop band The Cucumbers, and John O’Neil, a New York Times editor whose 2004 essay for the paper about his autistic son James was part of a Pulitzer Prize-nominated series. Fried and Shoshkes are close friends of the O’Neil family, and have witnessed first-hand James’s struggle and progress. One song was co-written by O’Neil’s oldest son, Chris, about the issues siblings face, and the final track, a poem about the different point of view of someone on the spectrum, was contributed by James.

“Early intervention and dedicated, relentless treatment can have a genuinely transforming effect,’’ says O’Neil. “We want to bring listeners inside an experience that is so hard to see and so hard to understand. Autism has understandably been called an ‘invisible epidemic.’ We hope to make it tangible.”

SONGS OF THE SPECTRUM already is generating excitement in the autism community through an innovative online marketing and distribution system involving dozens of autism awareness organizations and schools in a grassroots outreach effort.

“It captures ALL the emotions a family experiences while living in the realm of autism.” So wrote a mother of a child on the spectrum after receiving the CD. “Now I feel less alone,” said another listener.

SONGS OF THE SPECTRUM will be available at singsos.org as a digital download for a $15 donation or on CD for $20, as well as iTunes and Amazon. Buyers choose where the proceeds of their purchase will go from a list of dozens of autism service providers approved by SingSOS. On the album and at the site, there is also a hand-selected set of high-quality information for parents and educators about autism spectrum disorders in free downloadable form, including excerpts from books by leading experts.

The SONGS OF THE SPECTRUM Benefit CD Release Concert, starring Dar Williams, Marshall Crenshaw, Christina Courtin, Fiona McBain of Ollabelle, The Cucumbers and Kelly Flint

will be held in New York City Wednesday, April 7, 2010 at the Bitter End, the legendary Greenwich Village troubadour club. Tickets are available NOW at http://www.singsos.org/  

This album is unique and timely because: Autism is of greater concern than ever; with recent studies putting prevalence at 1 in 100.

In a field flooded with misinformation, the album offers a hand-picked selection of brochures, articles and book chapters, along with links to videos and interactive tools – a one-stop shopping resource for those with a need to know more.

It offers both a message of hope and an unflinching look at the realities faced by the families of people on the autism spectrum.

Unlike most charity CDs, this features a unified set of songs with a single point of view.

An innovative distribution plan engages the autism community to spread the word.

Featured beneficiaries include three national organizations -- Autism Speaks, the Autism Society and Easter Seals -- and six programs in the New York area: the Alpine Learning Group, the Connecticut Center for Child Development, the Learningspring School, the McCarton School, and the New York Center for Autism and Spectra Academy.

Nonprofit groups serving the autism community are encouraged to use the album as a fundraising tool by registering on the site, www.singsos.org. SingSOS wants to help the groups doing grassroots work and to spread the word about the importance of early detection and intervention.

Experts from the featured schools are available to discuss the issues raised by the songs and answer reader questions on a SingSOS blogsite at http://www.singsos.org/

The original cover image is by Jonathan Lerman, the winner of a recent SingSOS contest for artists on the spectrum. Several other autistic artists contributed art to the CD packaging and our website, where all contest entries can be seen.

A performance of the SingSOS songs was the concluding event of the United Nation’s activities marking World Autism Awareness Day in April 2009.

Track Listing:

1. One Went Missing - Ollabelle

2. Diagnosis - Richard Julian

3. Shiny House - The Cucumbers

4. Hide and Seek - Kelly Flint

5. Understanding - Marshall Crenshaw

6. Afraid (My Brother's Cries) - Teddy Geiger

7. If It Were His Legs - Christina Courtin

8. House on Fire - Dar Williams

9. Treatment - Ari Hest

10. Day After Day - Jackson Browne and Valerie Carter

(Dr. Maturin's Daughter)

11. When You Grow Up - Jonatha Brooke

12. He's Coming Back - Don Dixon and Marti Jones

13. It's Time - Dan Bern and Mike Viola

14. My Perspective - James O'Neill

For more information, visit http://www.singsos.org/

Are you ready for ...BugGiRL?~!

Impedance Music and MVD Visual are pleased to announce the US leg of the BugGiRL 2010 world tour.

Since forming in 2004, Australian sister/brother duo BugGiRL (Amber and Clinno) have lived their life on the road, touring constantly across Europe, North America and Australia. Recorded by Mark Opitz (AC/DC, Rose Tattoo), their recent five track EP "Blood, Sweat & Beers" is a blast of fearless rock n' roll. This record, the band's third, has been backed with touring across the world following its October 2009 release. They'll follow it up in June 2010 with a new full length album that was recorded in California with Sylvia Massy (Tool, System Of A Down).

One look at the tour schedule of BugGiRL will show you exactly how hard working these guys are.

They give it all for rock n' roll. Jumping on a plane from their Australian home in May 2007, the power-duo headed for the UK and Europe spending the next eight months touring the continent. Living only in their tour van and eating roadside scraps and small insects, they covered a distance of over 30,000 km, playing over 100 shows to over 30,000 fans.

BugGiRL are an old-school breed of road warrior. Old school rock work ethics, with an old school rock sound. They have been described as "rock n' roll road warriors from hell".

After an outback tour in the Australian summer of 2008, the road worn siblings hit the international highways for another round in 2008. Throughout their travels they have played Wacken showcases and Popkomm festivals and have toured alongside The Damned, The Bones, Mad Sin, Danko Jones, Brant Bjork, Doro, Girlschool, Peter Pan Speedrock and Texas Terri Bomb.

UK giants of media love BugGiRL. Impressed by the band's no bullshit attitude towards rock, blazing guitars tones and fun rockin' party vibe, long time fan Malcolm Dome invited BugGiRL for a special guest appearance on Total Rock Radio London. Legendary UK Rock magazine, Classic Rock featured BugGiRL on the cover mount CD alongside The Datsuns, Airbourne, Stone Gods, The Donnas, Saxon and Rose Tattoo (Nov 2008 issue).

Celebrating the release of new EP "Blood, Sweat and Beers", BugGiRL will hit the USA, UK and EU from March 2010, touring until December 2010. Turning every town on its head, making friends, fans and rock n' roll parties everywhere they go. "Blood, Sweat and Beers" is a pure piece of Australian pub rock history, featuring five solid rock classics, emerging from the snot and guts of beer-soaked pub carpets and blistering down the sunburned desert highway. "Blood, Sweat and Beers" will glass your face, hit on your girlfriend, start a free for all - all out brawl, slap ya on the arse and ride off into the morning desert sun...
"Blood, Sweat and Beers" Music Video: http://tinyurl.com/yacofqd

Black Robot - Black Robot Debut CD

Black Robot – Black Robot CD review

This new band is totally out to rock you and this is not an album for the faint hearted!

The band here is Black Robot, the brainchild of Buckcherry’s Jonathan "JB" Brightman on bass, who hooked up with Detroit raised Huck Johns on vocals, who himself had relocated to the West Coast, following no success on his own earlier solo path. This album also features Yogi (Guitar) and Devon Glenn on drums, both with Buckcherry backgrounds. Additional drum work here by Darren Dodd and Chris Powell and the legendary Fred Mandell (Queen, Elton John, Pink Floyd) on keyboards. Production duties are handled by Dave Cobb.

Opening with the totally AC/DC riff-tastic ‘Baddass,’ they just knock you dead, right out of the blocks!

I must also add that with the band’s interpretation of the J.J. Cale tune, ‘Cocaine’ (Yes, I know, Eric Clapton made it famous!) is also like The Who meets AC/DC and the vocal is totally Bon Scott!

Now if people want to say that Black Robot is just another AC/DC wannabe band, they would be so wrong, as they have their own vibe in there too, but the influences to me are without doubt the aforementioned AC/DC, but perhaps some Black Crowes, Aerosmith and Rolling Stones in there too .

Let’s face it, Jet did it, Silvertide too and er, of course Buckcherry had a little of that too you know, but there’s many more too and didn’t folks enjoy their stuff? Oh yes, they most certainly did.

This band / album just has that certain something about it, that tells me they are going to break big.

I said Black Crowes and 'Momma Don’t Cry' certainly nods that way, but with their own twist to it, in a tale about a boy gone to war and a message back to his dear old Mum at home.

The Bon Scott type vocals return with the AC/DC driven ‘Girls Kissing Girls.’ So down and dirty, how can you not enjoy the cheek these guys have?! Great fun stuff!

'Money' opens with simple southern rock style riff, before the drums come pounding in, I must say that I’m really not into the more punky style chorus of, ‘Money, money! Money, money!’

Probably my least favorite track on here, but no lack of energy about it …!

In ‘I’m In Love’ the band hits rock ballad territory and it’s probably something Aerosmith would’ve like to have written, with perhaps a little hint of Extreme to it in the chorus, but musically they’ve totally made it their own. Love this song.

A trashy approach is what we get with the opening of ‘In My Car’ and you know there’s something a little Roger Daltrey in Huck’s voice here and then the guitar solo gets a little soulful, which then seems odd as everything else starts to crank again before wrapping the song up.

The band’s theme song ‘Black Robot’ next is really a little out there, kind of edgy space rock a little weird and actually not so impressed with this one.

‘Love on a .45’ is next and it seems the punky vibe within the band strikes again and it’s kind of strange because half the song I really love, but the other half kind of throw me a little too.

The good parts bring to mind perhaps Alice Cooper, but then there’s even a whacky synth solo right at the end.

Next is ‘Dissatisfaction’ that grooves with an almost sub-Zeppelin rock groove, but that punky vocal approach again kind of kills it for me.

‘23 Days of Night’ seems grooving musically but then becomes a little repetitive after a while.

OK, back to the better stuff in ‘Stop the World’ which is another great rock ballad, some great harmonies and really good structure. Another gem in here for sure!

Final track is ‘Nervous Breakdown’ which has a kind of southern and roots feel to it and closes the album nicely.

No question that these guys found a groove and went with it, sometimes though for me it takes more of a punky path rather than true rock path, that to be honest lost something for me.

I will say this though, they certainly have something here that will get attention, mark my words!

Rating: 3.5 / 5

Rock News for Thursday 18th February, 2010

Pat Travers Band, new single available and new album on the way and tour dates too!

Canadian rocker Pat Travers is about ready to release a new studio album, hot on the heels of his latest single, 'Ask Me Baby.'

PT has also just made the cover of '22nd Century Rock Magazine.'

This message was shared from PT to his fans through MySpace:

'Hello Music Lovers, or should I say HAMMERHEADS!!! Haven't been on in awhile. Hope everyone's doing great! Make sure you get over to "Pat Travers Band" facebook page, PT's posting on a regular basis, stop by and say, AWANNAKICKBOOTY!! Make sure you join the fansite.

Been in conversations about the release of the CD. It's coming finally!! We will be putting plans together to tour and support the release this summer, if all goes as planned, should start end of May. Keep yer fingers crossed!

Here are some links to check out. A magazine cover story on PT, as well as Alexus Records US website. Stay tuned for more to come.

http://www.22ndcenturyrockmagazine.com/

http://www.alexusrecords.us/

www.myspace.com/alexusrecords

Looking forward to a great year!!

To hear his new single, 'Ask Me Baby' go here:

http://www.alexusrecords.us/artists.html

Bon Jovi Tour watch from home ....

Well, just the first 15 minutes apparently.

WATCH THE FIRST 15 MINUTES OF 'THE CIRCLE TOUR' FROM HOME!

Bon Jovi kicks off The Circle Tour this Friday, February 19 in Seattle, WA and they wants fans all over the world sharing the excitement of the first concert! Be there for when the band enters the Key Arena and reveals the new stage, the new screens, the new production! These will be 15 minutes you are sure to remember for years to come and will undoubtedly get you fired up to see Bon Jovi in 2010 and 2011! Visit the homepage of http://www.bonjovi.com/ at 8:30pm (PST) on 2/19 to see a live stream of the first 15 minutes of Friday night’s debut on The Circle Tour!

Also ...

Bon Jovi wants YOU to be in their music video for 'Superman Tonight.'

Bon Jovi and Animoto are teaming up so you can add photos and videos of you and your heroes to the official Superman Tonight music video for a chance to win 1 of 5 Flip Camcorders or an autographed guitar!

How it Works

1. CREATE

All you need are photos and a few minutes. Animoto takes care of the rest. Clips of the "Superman Tonight"

music video are already added.

2. SHARE

Send the link to your Animoto video to friends, family, social networks, EVERYONE! The more people who watch your video, the better chance you have of winning.

To check out a sample entry and create your cool Animoto video, click here:

http://www.bonjovi.com/supermantonight

Neal Schon hits the road solo

 

Original Journey member and guitarist Neal Schon, is giving Journey a brief rest it seems, while he goes out on the road for some solo shows.

Dates so far are as follows (According to Pollstar and his MySpace page):

http://www.pollstar.com/resultsArtist.aspx?ID=30120&SortBy=Date

Date City Venue

March 2010

Wed 03/17/10 Denver, CO Bluebird Theater

Thu 03/18/10 Salt Lake City, UT The Depot

Fri 03/19/10 Henderson, NV Green Valley Ranch Resort & Spa

Sat 03/20/10 Modesto, CA The State Theatre Of Modesto

Mon 03/22/10 Chico, CA El Rey Theatre

Thu 03/25/10 San Juan Capistrano, CA The Coach House

Sat 03/27/10 San Francisco, CA The Fillmore

Tue 03/30/10 Solana Beach, CA Belly Up Tavern

Wed 03/31/10 West Hollywood, CA House Of Blues

http://www.myspace.com/nealschon

Some brief updates from the Frontiers Records label

RICK SPRINGFIELD

It is now possible to watch on You Tube, a trailer video clip that RICK SPRINGFIELD put together for the “What’s Victoria’s Secret” single off “Venus in Overdrive”. Surf on the link to enjoy it: www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLSXZHxg_I4

PRETTY MAIDS

PRETTY MAIDS are working hard to complete the recording sessions for their new studio album tentatively entitled “Pandemonium”. The band has started to post video updates from the recording sessions. It is now possible to enjoy the first one watching this clip: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSbVninKO7A

TWO FIRES

Former THE STORM singer Kevin Chalfant is busy writing the songs that will be included in the highly anticipated third TWO FIRES album. Some of the songs that will be included on the album include “All For One”, “Is It Any Wonder”, “Shattered Without You”, “Answer in My Prayer”, “Relentless”, “Some Things are Better Left Unsaid”, “Epic In The Night”, “Still In Love” and “Burning Bright”. Stylewise the album will go back to the debut album super AOR atmospheres and songwriting with some major harmonies and melodies. The new record promises to be a complete must for all THE STORM and JOURNEY lovers! Frontiers hopes to release the album by August 2010.

STAN BUSH

Stan Bush is completing the writing sessions for his brand new album together with his usual songwriting partner Holger Fath. “It's turning out to be a great album!” says Stan. “I was concerned that "In This Life" would be a tough album to follow, but the new one is turning out even better!” Some of the songs that Stan has lined up for the inclusion in the final tracklisting include the album title track “Dream The Dream”, “All That I Am”, “Two Hearts” and “Don’t Give Up On Love”. Frontiers hopes to release the new CD by August 2010.

And maybe a new star in the making ....?

ISSA

Frontiers Records is pleased to announced the signing of a new female music star from Norway.

Her name is simply Issa and she is destined to stardom in the Melodic Rock musical world ! With amazing looks and an equally amazing set of pipes, Issa has been working hard on her debut album under the coordination of producer Ronny Milianowicz (Saint Deamon, Primal Fear, Dyonisus etc.).

Issa is a 26 years old girl from Oslo, Norway, since she was 17 she started working her way into the music business as a ”demo” singer for different labels in studios all around Norway and at the age of 19 Issa won a competition with almost 150,000 votes singing the song 'Fade Away' written by Stian Aarstad, who was earlier a member of Dimmu Borgir. The song got released on a record in cooperation with tv channel Fox Kids.

Somehow people just love listening to this girl sing and she soon hooked up with Gaute Ormaasen from the Norwegian Idol Show touring with him. Issa has also performed on more Metal and Rock records such as Gaia Epicus and Illusion Suite. Issa has also played over 400 shows with Norwegian artist such as Postgirobygget, Dde, Jahn Teigen etc.

Musicians participating on her debut album include Uli Kusch on drums (Helloween, Masterplan, Gamma Ray), Nobby Noberg on bass (Saint Deamon, Dionysus, Nation), Peter Huss on guitars (Sinergy, Shining, and guitarist for world known Bosson "One In A Million Hit") and Tim Larsson on keyboards (producer for Nick Lachey among others with Play Production).

Frontiers hopes to unleash this outstanding new talent to the unsuspecting public after the summer 2010. Stay tuned for more news.

BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE - Third Album, “Fever” Coming April 27th

Free Download Of “Begging For Mercy” Available Now: http://www.tweematic.com/bfmv/

New York, NY- Hard rock band Bullet For My Valentine returns with its third Jive album, 'Fever,' on April 27. The official first single, the blistering “Your Betrayal” impacts at radio on March 9, with a video to follow shortly.

Fever pairs Bullet For My Valentine with producer Don Gilmore, best known for his work with Linkin Park and Good Charlotte. The Welsh band—vocalist/guitarist Matt Tuck, guitarist Michael Paget, bassist Jason James and drummer Michael Thomas recorded Fever in studios both in its native Wales and Los Angeles. The album follows 2008’s 'Scream Aim Fire,' which debuted at No. 4 on The Billboard 200, a career high for the group, whom Kerrang! named Best British Band in both 2008 and 2009. Worldwide Scream Aim Fire has sold one million copies and debuted in the Top 5 in Germany, Austria, Australia and #1 in Japan and reached gold status in the UK and Canada. Their 2006 debut, 'The Poison,' has sold a million copies worldwide and certified gold status in America, the UK, Canada and Germany. Since those releases BFMV have rocked audiences on the Taste of Chaos, Mayhem, and No Fear festivals.

Eager to get new music into their fans’ hands as quickly as possible, BFMV is offering album track “Begging For Mercy” as a free download for a limited time at http://www.bulletformyvalentine.com/

The electrifying live band starts a headlining U.S. tour on April 30th. Stops for the festival veterans include New Jersey’s Bamboozle Festival and Columbus, Ohio’s Rock on the Range. Upcoming international festival highlights include the Download Festival in the United Kingdom, Germany’s massive Rock am Ring and Rock im Park, Sweden’s Metal Town, Belgium’s Graspop, Austria’s Nova Rock and Italy’s famed Gods Of Metal. The international release of Fever is April 26th.

StyxWorld up and running again!

Brief update on news yesterday regarding the Styx website http://www.styxworld.com/

Yes, today it is up and running, so I guess the guys have paid for the domain name again! Phew!