Saturday, October 30, 2010

Rock News Brief Update for Saturday 30th October, 2010

Guitar Guru GARY HOEY Releases 17TH Album
UTOPIA
AVAILABLE ONLINE NOW!


HOLLYWOOD, CA (October 28, 2010) – Ax-slinger Gary Hoey has had a busy year with numerous projects and extensive touring. Most recently, he wrapped up his latest album UTOPIA, which released on his own label Wazoo Music Group.

While Hoey is known for his signature versions of covers (Hocus Pocus, Lowrider, Misirlou, etc.) this album features 12 all new, all original songs. UTOPIA features Hoey’s widely recognized guitar skills, while showcasing his growth as a singer and songwriter. “Utopia's been a long time coming,” explains Hoey. “Utopia took over 2 years to make because I wanted time to develop my songs on tour and then bring that to the studio. That is why I started my indie label, Wazoo Music Group, so I could have that creative control over my music and be able to give it to my fans on my own terms.”

Hoey has toured North America throughout the year opening shows for Jeff Beck, Styx, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Bret Michaels. Additionally, he was Camp Counselor at Rock N Roll Fantasy Camp. That session was filmed and produced by Mark Burnett for a reality TV series that is currently airing on VH1 Classic.

With a collection of 17 albums and five top 20 Billboard hits, it’s clear to see why Gary Hoey is listed in the top 100 greatest guitar players of all time. Whether Hoey plays rock, blues, surf or Christmas, Hoey’s command of each style makes his live show one of the most exciting on the circuit today.

UTOPIA is a must have for your collection, available now through http://www.garyhoey.com/ , iTunes and Amazon.com.
Full track listing:
1. Utopia
2. Walk Away
3. Reminds Me Of You
4. Inevitable
5. Something's Going On
6. Only Human
7. You're Killing Me
8. Barn Burner
9. If I Knew Then
10. Simplify
11. Big Cactus
12. Bonzai Island

Recent Gary Hoey info:
*Extensive Fender guitar clinics in the US this year (nearly 30 cities)
*Appeared at Musikmesse in Frankfurt, Germany earlier this year providing demos for the new Fender American Stratocaster and the new G-DEC amp
*Opened for Jeff Beck on this year’s spring tour in the US
*Cover of Pollstar Magazine – April 2010
*Tour of Malaysia and Japan – June 2010 / Appearances at Tokyo Guitar Show including performance with Sham Kamikaze
*20 city summer tour in US, including support slots with Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Styx and Bret Michaels *“Camp Counselor” at Rock N’ Roll Fantasy Camp – filmed by Mark Burnett Productions –airing on VH1 Classic Gary Hoey’s “Need to Lead” guitar instruction DVD released on RockHouse Method
*Annual “Ho Ho Hoey Rockin’ Holiday tour starts November 26th in Detroit

2010 HO HO HOEY ROCKIN’ HOLIDAY TOUR DATES

November 26 Detroit, MI / City Theatre
27 Pittsburgh, PA / The Altar Bar
28 Chicago, IL / Reggie’s Rock Club

December 1 Sellersville, PA / Sellersville Theatre
2 Norfolk, CT / Infinity Hall
3 Lincoln, RI / Twin River – Lighthouse Bar
4 Salisbury, MA / Blue Ocean Hall
9 San Luis Obispo, CA / SLO Brew
11 Redwood City, CA / Club Fox
14 Exeter, CA / Orange Blossom Junction
15 Bakersfield, CA / Majestic Fox Theatre
16 Redondo, CA / Brixton
17 San Juan Capistrano, CA / Coach House
18 San Diego, CA / House of Blues
Official website: www.garyhoey.com

Kings of Leon announce massive UK outdoor Summer shows for 2011

Kings of Leon have announced details of a series of huge headline outdoor shows for 2011 that will see one of the country's most adored bands perform in five UK cities this summer, including a return to London’s Hyde Park "the scene of last year’s triumphant headline performance to 65,000 fans." Tickets for the shows in Coventry, Sunderland, Manchester, London & Edinburgh go on sale on Wednesday 3rd of November at 9am.


Their highly acclaimed fifth album 'Come Around Sundown' became their third consecutive album to debut at #1 when it topped the UK album charts last week on release, claiming both the biggest week one sales of the year & the biggest ever first week digital sales along the way.

Like last years Hyde Park show, their forthcoming brace of December arena shows sold out in seconds and these new shows are set to be one of the highlights of next year’s live calendar. The dates are as follows:

Kings of Leon: Summer 2010
May 2011
May 30th Coventry Ricoh Arena
June 2011
June 17th Sunderland Stadium of Light
June 19th Manchester Lancashire County Cricket Ground
June 22nd London Hyde Park
June 26th Edinburgh Murrayfield Stadium

Tickets on sale: Wednesday 3rd of November at 9am
Buy Online at:

Also ...
Kings of Leon return to Ireland on Saturday 28th of May to headline Slane Castle and celebrate 30 years of concerts at the historical Co. Meath venue.

TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets priced €79.00 inclusive of booking fee are on sale from 8am on Friday 5th November
In person: from 100 Ticketmaster outlets nationwide
24hr hotlines: Tel: ( ROI ) 0818 719 300/ ( NI ) 0844 277 4455

Tickets are limited to 8 per person. Under 16s must be accompanied by parent/guardian 25 or over.

Keep up with the band at: www.kingsofleon.com/

Simple Minds new music

Simple Minds have recently completed four weeks recording in London. In total 4 songs were recorded and mixed, including an 8 minute long version of 'In Every Heaven'. This was originally recorded in '82 during the New Gold Dream sessions and subsequently released in instrumental form as a B side to 'Someone Somewhere In Summertime'. All other tracks recorded are entirely new compositions with both 'Stagefright' and 'On The Rooftop' being credited to Charlie Burchill and Jim Kerr. "Broken Glass Park" written by Jim and Owen Parker was, however, heard previously this year during the live sets from Jim's solo project Lostboy!AKA.
Band official website:
As well as Jim Kerr's side project Lostboy!AKA - http://www.lostboyaka.com/

Ace Frehley Appears on VH1 Classic's Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp Reality Series

Ace Frehley will appear on this season of VH1 Classic's new Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp reality series which premiered on October 16th.

Please check http://www.vh1classic.com/ for airtimes.

Photo Caption:
Michael Anthony (Chickenfoot/ex-Van Halen) and Ace Frehley performing with a Fantasy Camper
Credit: © VH1 Classic

For all Ace Frehley updates go to:
www.acefrehley.com/
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Friday, October 29, 2010

Herman Ze German - Take It As It Comes album review

Herman Ze German – Take it As it Comes album review
Released on: Dark Star Records. Release date: Available now.



Yes, for those of you wondering this is indeed the new ‘solo’ album from former Scorpions drummer Herman Rarebell, supported by various – perhaps – lesser known friends, at least to my knowledge.

Someone who is close to Herman that does play on here is his other half – At least based on his reference to Claudia Raab, that it is his other half?! – playing saxophone on a number of tracks, which comes across to make a very interesting release, alongside much hard rocking material!
It’s not too bad an album overall, although Herman himself, when he takes on lead vocals, has some moments that are clearly, tongue squarely in cheek, nowhere more so than on his re-recording of Scorpions classic, ‘Rock You Like A Hurricane,’ but more on that later …

Opening with the title track, ‘Take it as it Comes,’ starts with some laid back guitar and solitary snare drum before then building up and straight into a rocking chorus, with some strong shared harmony vocals. Herman then takes the lead vocal throughout the verses and it’s amusing at times, but still alright as an overall track, very catchy chorus indeed. Great sax solo here too.

It’s funny to associate sax solo’s with so much of a rock album, the likes of which is hard to think of, except for say Quarterflash (I know, they were pretty laid back ... Not too rocking!) or Bruce Springsteen’s E. Street Band.

In ‘Don’t Lose Your Trust’ the song has a very AC/DC type vibe, right down to Stefan Erz’ almost Bon Scott like vocals.
Another good solid mid to up tempo track, with that AC/DC style of riff throughout and then, yes, sax solo again and then some tasty guitar riffing towards the end from Winnie Thomasschewski – Phew, now there’s a name for you!

Herman says in the sleeve notes that ‘Rough Job’ – That almost sounds like the words ‘Rapture’ to me! – is about phone sex girls … Enough said on that except that the point is emphasized by ‘artificial’ moans and groans of ecstasy in the chorus. Talk about seriously tacky, this seriously is!

Ready for a little more AC/DC … ‘Let Me Rock You’ is certainly in that style again, good up tempo rocker and really is totally contagious and you try not to sing along with it and get into the Angus Young style solo no less! Good one!

It’s power ballad time next in ‘Your Love Is Hurting’ and it almost reminds me of Def Leppard musically with the intro and then almost Meatloaf in the rest of the structure, in the same style as Meatloaf’s biggest hits. This could seriously be a big hit with the right promo behind it. I certainly think it would work in the UK, in the US, who knows?! The guitar solo could be Bon Jovi’s Richie Sambora, it’s really that strong a track.

‘Freak Show’ next starts in an almost prog rock type laid back, haunting style through the verses, then the chorus kicks in and is it something Alice Cooper could’ve done or Queensryche?! There, I bet that throws you a little folks!?! There’s a lot musical interaction going on in the background of the track, to certainly give it that almost prog rock type feel.

Next track ‘Heya, Heya’ was recorded for the childrens charity organization, ‘World Vision’ - http://www.worldvision.com/ – and it starts with Indian ritual chanting, before the band kicks in with an overall mix that sounds great! It actually reminded me of Swedish band Europe, with the great guitar licks, big Hammond organ sound and powerful rhythm and then kids start chanting, ‘Heya, heya, heya, heya,’ and Herman then take the lead vocals and overall it just works. How to describe the overall sound, tough, but it’s a good strong rock backing mid paced rocker. I love it!

‘Back Attack’ is a more jangly poppy, commercial type rocker with some great harmonica too and yes, catchy chorus too!

OK, Herman says in his sleeve notes to Scorpions fans to give his version of ‘Rock You Like A Hurricane’ a chance.
I must say the intro builds in an interesting way and then the rocking band kicks in, with a lead synth solo where the Scorpions had wailing lead guitar, but it sounds good ... Then comes Herman vocals … Basically it’s a fast talk through of all the original verse lyrics, but then for the chorus it’s sung in the same fashion as the Scorpions did it, but then where Klaus Meine would sing the ‘C’mon, c’mon, c’mon …’ Herman speaks some German … Odd, but kind of amusing! When it comes to the solo, everything stops for a laid back sax solo … Sure it’s done differently and at first I thought, ‘No! What are you doing?!’ Now I think it’s great fun!

Then Herman and his friends cover the old classic surf track ‘Wipeout’ in a completely rockin’ it out manner and some seriously impressive guitar soloing from the artist simply identified as, ‘The Mistery Man!’ Yes, more fun!

Herman then lets rip with ‘Drum Dance’ another instrumental track, that I can’t help hearing a nod or so towards one of my own drumming heroes, Cozy Powell. - If you’ve heard Cozy’s solo material, you’ll know where I’m coming from.

‘I’m Back’ is a very commercial laid back almost like a modern country pop song, as the last official track here.

There’s then a bonus track in the shape of the ‘Radio version’ of the power ballad ‘Your Love is Hurting,’ that closes the album proper and it really sounds like ‘hit single’ is written all over it.

So, is it a good album? Well, I’ve really come to like it, for it’s clearly tongue in cheek moments, some great rocking moments, some clearly, good musicianship and more. Give it a chance I’d say and perhaps you’ll get the kick that I did!
Rating: 3.5 out of 5.



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Brief News Update for Friday 29th October, 2010

Pollstar announces the Top 20 Concert Tours so far this year

Yes, Pollstar the industry trade standard for all touring activities, have published their Top 20 Concert Tours, which ranks artists by average box office gross take in each city, as well as including the average ticket price for each show in North America.
Last week's ranking is in parentheses.
This list is based on data provided to the trade publication Pollstar by concert promoters and venue managers.

The Top 20 Tours so far this year, is still led by ex-Beatle, Paul McCartney. Boy! He really can't make enough money, now can he:

TOP 20 CONCERT TOURS

1. (1) Paul McCartney; $3,434,998; $145.72.
2. (2) Dave Matthews Band; $1,560,586; $58.89.
3. (5) The Black Eyed Peas; $1,155,868; $63.74.
4. (7) Michael Buble; $1,154,485; $87.15.
5. (8) Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers; $1,066,364; $65.95.
6. (9) Rush; $759,731; $72.91.
7. (12) Jack Johnson; $684,195; $42.83.
8. (10) Toby Keith; $676,814; $36.10.
9. (11) Iron Maiden; $632,352; $54.25.
10. (13) Tim McGraw; $614,101; $41.31.
11. (15) Rascal Flatts; $596,478; $43.06.
12. (16) Brad Paisley; $591,676; $40.63.
13. (17) Justin Bieber; $585,209; $47.39.
14. (New) John Mayer; $570,326; $48.65.
15. (New) Kings Of Leon; $456,979; $40.07.
16. (18) Furthur; $418,424; $49.35.
17. (19) Carrie Underwood; $409,002; $47.99.
18. (New) Arcade Fire; $324,311; $43.24.
19. (22) Sugarland; $322,378; $50.29.
20. (23) Neil Young; $306,183; $108.05.

For all of your favourite artists upcoming tour activities, go to: http://www.pollstar.com/

Frontiers Records to reissue the original TRIUMPH catalogue in Europe


Triumph is one of Canada's greatest Hard Rock bands. With 10 classic albums released between 1976 and 1987, they have left an indelible mark on the history of Hard Rock, Melodic Rock and are nowadays considered among the forefathers of Progressive Metal.

Epitomizing the essence of the Power trio sound: Rik Emmett (guitar and vocals), Mike Levine (bass and keyboards) and Gil Moore (drums and vocals) are regarded as virtuoso musicians in their own right and great entertainers thanks to the Triumph concert spectacle that was second to none.

Frontiers Records is therefore proud to announce that the official reissues of Triumph’s 10 classic albums, in digipak version and with the original tracklistings, will be released on December 3rd.

"In The Beginning" (1976)
"Rock and Roll Machine" (1977)
"Just a Game" (1979)
"Progressions of Power" (1980)
"Allied Forces" (1981)
"Never Surrender" (1983)
"Thunder Seven" (1984)
"Stages" (Live) (1985)
"The Sport of Kings" (1986)
"Surveillance" (1987)

All CDs have been remastered and feature an extensive booklet including lyrics.

In addition, Frontiers will issue a very limited collector’s edition Box Set entitled Diamond Collection which will include all the 10 albums in vinyl replica, and will feature the artwork from the original vinyl edition of the albums.

While future plans remain uncertain for the band, and after the recent reunion shows, the time to re-live the impressive legacy of their music has come. This new set of reissues is a real present to the Triumph fans, both old and new, who now have the opportunity to own these timeless masterpieces of Classic Rock. Enjoy !

The UK's Firefest Festival is this weekend!


OK folks, chances are if you don't already have tickets for this event, you'll be extremely lucky to try and get in to this event!
Every year now, the Firefest Festival - Which replaced the old 'The Gods' festival - takes place in northern England and this year is it's seventh year and each year the promoters manage to pull the odd rabbit out of the hat and persuade some artists to reform, especially for the event.
All power to Kieran Dargan and Bruce Mee ...

This year - now spread over 3 days, Friday, Saturday and Sunday  - they have talked American AOR / Melodic rockers Nelson and UK AOR act Strangeways to reform for the event, for starters and as I already mentioned, the whole thing kicks off  tonight, Friday 29th October at Nottingham's Rock City venue, with headliners from Sweden, H.E.A.T. 

Saturday's line up includes the reformed Grand Illusion, German rockers Bonfire, UK favourites Dare and is headlined by former Dokken guitar wizzard George Lynch's band, Lynch Mob.

Sunday closes things with the aforementioned Strangeways, now reformed with Terry Brock on lead vocals once more and then Nelson will headline with special guest Jimi Jamison (Ex-Survivor, Cobra and Target), alongside Stage Dolls, Newman and Pretty Maids to name a few.
For complete details on all things Firefest, go to:  www.thefirefest.com/
If you're going, enjoy yourselves, be safe and say 'Hi' to my old mate Steve Newman!

Sorry folks that, it's all there is right now, but kids will be up early for us, so enjoy the weekend you lucky people!
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Thursday, October 28, 2010

Rock News update for Thursday 28th October, 2010

Hi all, apologies for so few updates recently, just swamped with loads going on. :(
Anyway, in trying to catch I'm starting with - A huge surprise to anyone who knows me! - with an update from those masters of metallic thrash and then some, Metallica!
Read on!

Metallica release two special EP's in conjuction with Tour Down Under

Metallica in support of their sold out tours in Australia and New Zealand are releasing not one, but two commemorative live EP releases targeted for Down Under fans (Sold at shows), but also available through the bands webstore.
Six Feet Down Under EP
This eight song limited edition EP is only available in Australia/New Zealand and here in the Met Store!
Released in celebration of the band's sold out tour there in the Fall of 2010, there are two songs recorded from each of the previous four Trans-Tasman tours in 1989, 1993, 1998, and 2004 and none of these songs have been released before as live “b-sides.” This EP was compiled from fan submissions of bootlegs, sound board tapes from the vault, and live multi-track recordings. The sound on a few tracks is well, “bootleggy,” but all part of the fun!

Tracklist:
1. Eye of the Beholder - Recorded live on May 4, 1989 at Festival Hall in Melbourne
2. ...And Justice For All - Recorded live on May 4, 1989 at Festival Hall in Melbourne
3. Through the Never - Recorded live on April 8, 1993 at the Entertainment Centre in Perth
4. The Unforgiven - Recorded live on April 4, 1993 at the National Tennis Centre in Melbourne
5. Low Man's Lyric (Acoustic) - Recorded live on April 11, 1998 at the Entertainment Centre in Perth
6. Devil's Dance - Recorded live on April 12, 1998 at the Entertainment Centre in Perth
7. Frantic - Recorded live on January 21, 2004 at the Entertainment Centre in Sydney
8. Fight Fire With Fire - Recorded live on January 19, 2004 at the Entertainment Centre in Brisbane

Then this second EP!
Australian/New Zealand EP # 2 Details


If you picked up "Six Feet Down Under," you may have noticed the words "EP One" on the package and were quick to ask "what the hell does that mean?" Well, drum roll please . . . you guessed it, there is indeed an "EP Two" in the works . . . very clever clue, don't ya think? Look for "Six Feet Down Under Part II" in Australian and New Zealand stores, along with http://www.metallica.com/ and http://www.metclub.com/, on November 12.

In our quest to have something unique and special to celebrate our long overdue visit to this part of the world, as well as the final stretch of World Magnetic tour dates, we wanted to release some live recordings from previous tours on EP # 1 and a companion EP from the current 2010 tour. The first time around we called on you to send us your bootleg recordings from those earlier tour dates going back as far as 1989 and we pulled a track list together from the submissions. Once again we went to you, the 'Tallica faithful, for help and polled Fan Club members from Australia and New Zealand to come up with their top eight picks from all the 41 songs played during the early part of the Trans-Tasman run this year.

We played 'em . . . you picked 'em . . . here it is:

1. Blackened, recorded live on October 16, 2010, at the Brisbane Entertainment Center, in Brisbane, Australia
2. Ride The Lightning, recorded live on October 14, 2010, at the Vector Arena, in Auckland, New Zealand
3. The Four Horsemen, recorded live on September 18, 2010, at the Acer Arena, in Sydney, Australia
4. Welcome Home (Sanitarium), recorded live on September 15, 2010, at the Rod Laver Arena, in Melbourne, Australia
5. Master Of Puppets, recorded live on October 16, 2010, at the Brisbane Entertainment Center, in Brisbane, Australia
6. ...And Justice For All, recorded live on October 18, 2010, at the Brisbane Entertainment Center, in Brisbane, Australia
7. Fade To Black, recorded live on September 18, 2010, at the Acer Arena, in Sydney, Australia
8. Damage, Inc., recorded live on September 22, 2010, at the CBS Canterbury Arena, in Christchurch, New Zealand

And finally from Metallica and their mates!

Free download of "Am I Evil?"

The Big 4 and iTunes in the U.S. have teamed up to celebrate the upcoming release of the "Big 4: Live From Sofia, Bulgaria" DVD by offering you a FREE video download of members from all four bands performing "Am I Evil?" together that night. Download the video and check out discounts on all four bands' audio and video releases that are available on iTunes in the United States here.

Be sure to grab the video quick . . . this offer is only good for one week!! And for all the scoop and video previews of the upcoming Big 4 DVD, check it out here: www.apple.com/itunes/affiliates/download/

For more details go to: http://www.metallica.com/

Bon Jovi announce new UK and European Summer shows and Winter North American dates

It seems that following on from Tuesday's announcement of the Foo Fighters summer UK dates, Bon Jovi have jumped in on the act to announce their own outdoor summer shows in the UK and Europe themselves, as well as new North American shows for 2011!

The shows on British soil, kick off in Edinburgh at Murrayfield Stadium on June 22nd, 2011, then they play Manchester's Old Trafford Cricket Ground on the 24th, London's 'Hard Rock Calling' festival on the 25th and then they travel across the Irish sea to play Dublin RDS Arena on June 29th.

The new North American tour dates kick off in February 2011, in University Park, PA on the 9th, then they visit Pittsburgh, PA (11th), Toronto, ON (14th), Montreal, Quebec, Canada (18th) and other dates through the US and Canada, finishing in Vancouver on March 25th.
Live dates after that - Confirmed so far - take them back to Europe in June starting in Zagreb, Croatia on the 8th.
Other dates will take the band all over the place, wrapping up - Based on current info! - in Lisbon, Portugal on July 31st.
For all Bon Jovi tour date and ticket info go to:

Frontiers Records presents Nelson - 'You're All I Need Tonight' video

"You're All I Need Tonight" the videoclip of the first single taken from Nelson's forthcoming album "Lightning Strikes Twice" is available now on Youtube:


The videoclip premiered live successfully on AOL Music and Noisecreep - http://www.noisecreep.com/ or http://www.music.aol.com/ last on October 20th.

"You're All I Need Tonight" is the first music video created by Matthew & Gunnar Nelson in over 15 years. It is the first single to be released from the critically acclaimed new album “Lightning Strikes Twice” from Frontiers Records scheduled for release in Europe on November 5th, and in the U.S. in February 2011 from Frontiers Records. “Lightning Strikes Twice” is a sequel to Nelson's classic multi-platinum debut album, “After the Rain”.

"You're All I Need Tonight" was written by the Nelson twins together with fellow songwriters Marc Tanner and Richard Wilson. The song captures the melodic rock signature Nelson sound and harmonies from the twin lead front men and songwriters performing at the top of their game. A-list stage performance led by Matthew Nelson and featuring backing musicians Juke Kartel, provide the perfect compliment to the powerful lead vocals of Gunnar Nelson, whose stellar vocal performance ignites the screen.

The full album video trailer can be enjoyed here: http://www.nelsonkicksass.com/ or on www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKq8NaSnzOE

Nelson's single "You're All I Need Tonight" is available now for digital audio download purchase from Frontiers Records online at Amazon.com, iTunes and Napster.
Molly Hatchet announce new dates in support of 'Justice' release


Following on from the band latest release through SPV, 'Justice,' Southern boogie merchants, Molly Hatchet will be hitting North American venues through the last days of October and into November, before heading to Europe in late November and through December.
Here's the current dates - According to Pollstar:

October 2010
Thu 10/28/10 Annapolis, MD Rams Head On Stage
Fri 10/29/10 Newark, OH Brushy Fork Campground And Music Center
Sat 10/30/10 Manistee, MI Little River Casino Resort
Sun 10/31/10 Brantford, ON Jackhammers Night Club

November 2010Tue 11/02/10 Toronto, ON The Rockpile
Wed 11/03/10 Rochester, NY Water Street Music Hall / Club @ Water Street
Thu 11/04/10 Newport, RI Newport Blues Cafe
Fri 11/05/10 New Hope, PA Havana
Sat 11/06/10 Manville, NJ Rhythms of the Night
Thu 11/11/10 Sarasota, FL Beach Club
Fri 11/12/10 Charlotte, NC Tremont Music Hall
Sat 11/13/10 Ulmer, SC Lazy B's
Sat 11/27/10 Vitoria, Spain Jimmy Jazz
Sun 11/28/10 Madrid, Spain Ritmo Y Compas

December 2010
Mon 12/06/10 Warsaw, Poland Progresja
Tue 12/07/10 Verviers, Belgium Spirit of '66
Wed 12/08/10 Aschaffenburg, Germany Colos-Saal
Thu 12/09/10 Mannheum, Germany Maimarktclub
Fri 12/10/10 Zurich, Switzerland Dynamo
Sat 12/11/10 Singen, Germany Stadthalle
Mon 12/13/10 Nuremberg, Germany Hirsch
Tue 12/14/10 Bremen, Germany Aladin
Wed 12/15/10 Hannover, Germany Capitol Hannover
Thu 12/16/10 Berlin, Germany Columbiaclub
Sat 12/18/10 Andernach, Germany JUZ
Sun 12/19/10 Wissen, Germany Kulturwerk
Mon 12/20/10 Bochum, Germany Zeche
Tue 12/21/10 Prague, Czech Republic Retro Music Hall
Band official site: www.mollyhatchet.com/
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Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Brief Rock News Update for Tuesday 26th October, 2010

Goo Goo Dolls adding more dates on Inner Machine Tour


Buffalo, New York band, The Goo Goo Dolls have been out on the road, touring in support of thier latest album, Something For The Rest of Us, on the tour that is named after the bands fan club, The Inner Machine and although the venues they're playing in the US are in general perhaps a little smaller than previous, they are still keeping their fans happy and good reports continue to be heard.

The band are currently wrapping up some US dates before crossing the 'Big Pond' to play dates in the UK starting on November 11th, in Glasgow and wrapping up in London on November 21st, before returning back to the US for more US dates in December.
The band seem to go from strength to strength and I must say, Johnny Rzeznik and the boys certainly impressed both Rhonda and I each time we've caught them live.
They return to the US on December 1st, playing the Roseland Ballroom in New York City, NY and then play the following confirmed cities: Hartford, CT (3rd), Orlando, FL (12/05), San Fancisco, CA (12/10), wrapping the year up with two shows at Thackerville, OK (12/30 and 12/31).
Full tour date info can be found at: www.googoodolls.com/tour.php
With some big gaps inbetween some of those dates, you can be certain more US dates will follow.
Keep up with the band at: www.googoodolls.com/

Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of JEFF SCOTT SOTO’s double live album “Live at Firefest 2008” on December 3rd 2010.


Firefest has become a pivotal event in the Melodic Rock season in Europe. Born from the ashes of the ‘Gods of AOR’ festival, Firefest started in 2004 and not only did they continue the tradition of Europe’s finest Melodic Rock/AOR festivals, but exceeded all previous expectations.

Not many bands have the chance to play on ‘that’ stage nowadays and when Bruce Mee and Kieran Dargan have realized the demand for particular artists to continuing rounding up annually. Jeff Scott Soto was no stranger to ‘that’ stage. He performed at the Gods festival in 2002 putting up an amazing show that was mirrored with a live CD/DVD. So when the call came to Jeff about the new and continued version of this proven festival, he wasted no time in answering “Of course!”.

But not all good things come easily… “Unfortunately the date clashed with my commitments touring with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra in the US for their annual Winter Tour” recalls Jeff. “This meant a week of 12 hour rehearsals in the US, leaving on a Friday to land in London on a Saturday morning, bee-line it up to Nottingham for 4 hours in traffic, meet with the band for 30 minutes, as they were wrapping up the ONLY rehearsal we had prior to the show (the last time we had played together was nearly a year prior!), straight to the venue and onstage within the next hour!”

But once onstage, the warmth of the crowd and the energy transmitted by the electricity of the event was such that Jeff and his band stormed through our 70 minute set like gangbusters! It was the first time the songs from the “Beautiful Mess” album were performed in Europe and the last show the original JSS band featuring Howie Simon on guitar, Dave Dzialak on drums and Gary Schutt on bass played together.


In JSS words: “Here it is in all its glory, a little extra something for you all to help me remember this wonderful night of music and memories”.

“Live at Firefest 2008” tracklisting includes:
CD1: 21st Century; Colour My XTC (prelude); Soul Divine; Drowning; Our Song; DD Solo; Guitar Jam; Mountain; Eyes Of Love; Testify; Broken Man.

CD2: Hey; Crazy; Piano Medley (If This Is The End, Nobody Said It Was Easy, 4 U); Gin & Tonic Sky; I'll Be Waiting; Funky Medley (Play That Funky Music, Jungle Boogie, The Roof Is On Fire, Brick House, Shake Your Booty, Kung Fu Fighting, Yo Baby Yo, Macho Man, Ice Ice Baby, Stayin’ Alive, Another One Bites The Dust, Walk This Way, My Love, My Friend)

The songs “21st Century” and “Eyes Of Love” can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web radio. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio

Foo Fighters to play at Milton Keynes Bowl - Summer 2011

The Foo Fighters are set to rock the bowl, the Milton Keynes Bowl that is, on the weekend of 
2nd and 3rd July 2011!
Tickets are set to go on sale Friday 5th November @ 9am



For more details go to: www.foofighters.com/us/news


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Monday, October 25, 2010

Rock News for Monday 25th October, 2010

ERIC JOHNSON RELEASES EXPANSIVE NEW ALBUM, UP CLOSE,
ON DECEMBER 7TH, 2010
Includes Guests Steve Miller, Jimmie Vaughan, Johnny Lang & Sonny Landreth
Hits Road with Acoustic Guitar Masters Package & Experience Hendrix Tour

Guitarist, songwriter and singer Eric Johnson brings listeners Up Close to his stunning musicality when the Grammy winning artist releases his sixth studio album on his own Vortexan Music label (via EMI Distribution) on December 7th 2010. The 15-track disc presents 14 new Johnson compositions plus his version of the Electric Flag song “Texas,” and features guest appearances by fellow master players Jimmie Vaughan and Sonny Landreth on guitar and vocals by Steve Miller, Johnny Lang and Lyrical themes of reflection, emotional revelations, personal growth and fulfillment are underscored on the album by Johnson’s most daring, urgent, progressive and at times raw and fervent guitar work to date. As with all of Johnson’s work, his all-encompassing style draws from rock, blues, pop, country, jazz and classic to exemplify his stature as “an extraordinary guitar player accessible to ordinary music fans” (Memphis Commercial Appeal). Malford Milligan as well as Johnson. It returns him to the EMI family where Johnson enjoyed his greatest record success with the albums Ah Via Musicom and Venus Isle.

Praised by All Music Guide as one of the “very few musical artists [to] achieve a true signature style which makes comparisons to other musicians impossible,” Johnson expands, deepens and enhances his sound on his first album release since Bloom in 2005. The title reflects the revelatory and spontaneous performances on Up Close as well as its sonic immediacy thanks to a mix by legendary veteran engineer Andy Johns.

“I decided to let go a bit and allow things to happen and just go with the flow,” explains Johnson of his approach to the album. “I like my work to have a high proficiency, but I also wanted to go for the energy and magic of the performances.” He precedes the album’s release with a special acoustic Guitar Masters tour alongside acclaimed players Peppino D’Agostino and Andy McKee in October, and follows it with his second appearance on the Experience Hendrix tour later this year and another leg of the Guitar Masters tour in January 2011. Lyrical themes of reflection, emotional revelations, personal growth and fulfillment are underscored on the album by Johnson’s most daring, urgent, progressive and at times raw and fervent guitar work to date. As with all of Johnson’s work, his all-encompassing style draws from rock, blues, pop, country, jazz and classic to exemplify his stature as “an extraordinary guitar player accessible to ordinary music fans” (Memphis Commercial Appeal).

Track Listing:
1. AWAKEN
2. FATDADDY
3. BRILLIANT ROOM (Malford Milligan -vocal)
4. TEXAS (Steve Miller –vocal, Jimmie Vaughan - guitar)
5. GEM
6. TRAVERSE
7. AUSTIN (Jonny Lang - vocal)
8. SOUL SURPRISE
9. ON THE WAY
10. ARITHMETIC
11. THE SEA AND THE MOUNTAIN
12. VORTEXAN
13. A CHANGE HAS COME TO ME
14. CHANGE - revisited
15. YOUR BOOK (Sonny Landreth - guitar)

Johnson burst into the musical main- stream with his landmark 1990 album Ah Via Musicom, which won him a Grammy, yielded a record three Top 10 instrumental hits like “Cliffs of Dover” from a single LP release, and earned him platinum sales status. Enshrined in Guitar Player’s Gallery of Greats and named one of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of the 20th Century by Musician magazine alongside numerous other awards, Johnson’s career has been marked by his gift for writing songs with vivid and indelible melodies and lyrical, concise and adventurous playing that focuses on melody and the song rather than six-string gymnastics. A frequent collaborator with other guitar legends, he has continued to explore the myriad possibilities of guitar-based musical artistry since his debut major label release in 1986, Tones, that landed him on the cover of Guitar Player magazine.

Up Close is energized by Johnson’s continuing focus on broadening and enriching his work “I wanted to bare myself a little further and show myself more,” he says. “I want my music to always grow and have more of a profound meaning and impact.”

Tour dates for the Experience Hendrix Tour are as follows:
October 2010
Oct. 26 - Pittsburgh - Benedum Theater
Oct. 28 - Toronto, ON - Sony Center
Oct. 29 - Quebec City, QUE - Grand Theatre
Oct. 30 - Montreal, QUE - Place des Arts
November 2010
Nov. 01 -Ottawa, ON -National Arts Center Southam Hall
Nov. 02 - Buffalo, NY - Center for the Arts
Nov. 03 - Morristown, NJ - Community Theatre
Nov. 04 - Mashantucket, CT - MGM Grand @ Foxwoods
Nov. 06 - Albany, NY - Palace Theater
Nov. 07 - Boston, MA - Orpheum Theater
Nov. 09 - Hershey, PA - Hershey Theatre
Nov. 10 - New York, NY - Beacon Theatre
Nov. 11 - Baltimore, MD - Hippodrome
Nov. 12 - Richmond, VA – Landmark Theater
Nov. 13 - Atlantic City, NJ - Caesars Casino
Nov. 16 - Columbus, OH- Palace Theater
Nov. 17 - Cincinnati, OH - Taft Theater
Nov. 18 - Detroit, MI - Fox Theater
Nov. 19 - Merrilville, IN - Star Plaza Theater
Nov. 20 – Indianapolis – Murat Theatre
For more information, visit http://www.ericjohnson.com/

SPECIAL LIMITED HALLOWEEN PRICE OF $35*
Former Founding Members of YES and TOTO First Los Angeles Concert:
YOSO Headlines “HUMANITY THRU MUSIC” Green Carpet
Charity Concert

ROB ZOMBIE – STEVE VAI – PAUL GILBERT – ALICE COOPER – MARKY RAMONE TYLER MANE – DEREK MEARS – GEORGE LYNCH, RICHIE KOTZEN and MORE

Signed Guitars and Drum Heads For Silent Auction
Saturday, November 6th @ Musicians Institute Music Corridor and Amphitheatre in Hollywood

HOLLYWOOD, CA (October 24, 2010) – What do Rob Zombie, Paul Gilbert, Steve Vai, Alice Cooper, Marky Ramone and so many other rockstars have in common? They all love animals and have signed guitars and more to help support the upcoming concert HUMANITY THRU MUSIC and the building of a No-Kill animal sanctuary. Right now you can get your ticket for $35 as a special Halloween price – Just go to Paypal to donations@furfeather.org and get yours now!!!

Come wag your tail and rock-out in Hollywood on November, 6th at the First Annual “Humanity Thru Music” concert and paw-sta dinner in benefit of Fur & Feather Animal Sanctuary a 501c3 dedicated to much needed animal welfare in California. Come help save the lives of our homeless animals from having to enter shelters and face needless euthanasia by supporting the building of Southern California’s first full NO-KILL animal sanctuary, medical and educational center.

The night will dazzle you with bright lights and stars as you cross the green carpet to the corridor off of Hollywood Blvd for fun, food and a paw-stompin concert with Platinum super-group players from YES  and TOTO – YOSO - playing hits from both bands Roundabout, Owner Of A Lonely Heart, Rosanna, Hold The Line and so much more!!

Join celebrities and rockstars at the vegetarian Paw-sta buffet bar then trot over and chase your tail around one of the largest silent auctions full of the best treats, including guitars signed by Steve Vai, Paul Gilbert, George Lynch, drum heads signed by Marky Ramone, weekend trips, Hi-end spa weekends, signed sports memorabilia, autographed Star Wars memorabilia, Two Brunches at the House of Blues, Tickets from the LA Philharmonic (winter season) and Hollywood Bowl tickets (summer season), a Two Night Stay at the beautiful Carmel By the Sea, Cypress Inn - part owned by Doris Day and pet friendly. The list of auction items is endless and all proceeds go to Fur and Feather Animal Sanctuary to further their goal of building in 2011.

NIGHTS SCHEDULE: Will-call opens at 5:30 pm to check in and purchase tickets with the Green Carpet and silent auction starting at 6:00 pm. The vegetarian paw-sta buffet starts at 6:30 pm with a martini and wine bar. 8:00 pm is your cue to go rock-out to classic rock in the amphitheater for the concert that will start at 8:30pm. The concert will end about 11:00 pm in which the guests will return to the corridor for the last chance to bid on the silent auction before the winners are announced. At this time, coffee and dessert will be served.

ONLINE ADVANCE SALE: General Admission seats, dinner and dog tags (festival seating) is $50, VIP seating, dinner, dog tags and commemorative book is $100 (guaranteed first 5 rows), $195 VIP Backstage (First 3 center rows seating guaranteed
VIP Lounge
After-Show Meet and Greet
Special YOSO Gift bag), Platinum group seating for 10 includes all above* $1250.

TO BUY TICKETS – Go to http://www.ticketfly.com/ Paypal at http://www.furfeather.org/ OR Paypal direct with ticket seat-type and quantities to music@furfeather.org – You will be provided with a confirmation page you will bring to will-call night of the event. Will-call starts @ 5:30 pm sharp!

WALK-UP (day of show): General Admission seats, dinner and dog tags (festival seating) is $50, VIP seating, dinner, dog tags and commemorative book is $100 (guaranteed first 5 rows), VIP Backstage not available.

The term “Super-Group” describes a band rising out of two of the most creative bands of the past 30 years: YOSO is formed out of TOTO’s brilliant lead vocalist Bobby Kimball and the creative force of former YES members, Tony Kaye and Billy Sherwood, thus equalling the magic of YES with the voice of TOTO. However, YOSO is much more than a combination of two classic rock groups. The band’s debut album “Elements” will debut this Fall in the USA on Frontiers Records. This long awaited release comes with a bonus live CD where the band plays some old and new classics. Their musical blend presents a fascinating combination of the sound of YES ("90125"/"Big Generator" era) and TOTO, with a very interesting and original sound that truly encompasses the styles.
*General Admission Ticket only

Press Release: Two Fires - Is It Any Wonder videoclip



Taken From
"Burning Bright" Two Fires


Released in Europe on September 24th 2010
www.frontiers.it/

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Sunday, October 24, 2010

Pearl - Little Immaculate White Fox album review

Pearl – Little Immaculate White Fox album review
Released through: R.E.D. Distribution / White Fox Music
Release date: Available now.
Well, I’ve been a fan of Meatloaf’s music for years now, but when this dropped my way – I must admit quite a while back now! June or July. – I wasn’t sure what to think. I didn’t even realize that it was Meatloaf’s daughter at first as I saw the CD that simply said ‘Pearl’ and the album's title and it was only later when I happened to unfold the press release, buried within a mass of other CD’s for review, that it clicked!

You also kind of wonder, when something is not on a major label as to why and that maybe, that is a pointer.
You’d also think that since she has a famous Dad and that her husband happens to be Scott Ian (Anthrax), that it would be released through a major label?

The press release tells it very much as it is though, that this is a raw, bluesy and even soulful at time and almost rootsy rocking album, with clear influences from say AC/DC, The Rolling Stones, Janis Joplin to Aerosmith, The Allman Brothers and more.
One thing is certain, she has a killer voice, ‘kick ass’ to use an American expression!

The out and out rocker ‘Rock Child’ opens the album, kind of AC/DC meets Aerosmith if you ask me!
She kind of has a voice that at times reminds me of UK rockers Girlschool, then Canada’s Lee Aaron too and even early Ann Wilson here and there, not forgetting of course the all too clear influence of Janis Joplin.
It really does blow you away completely, just how good and how strong this track is that she is not signed to a major label on the strength of this track alone!

It’s funny, the album cover tells me and even my media player says that this next track is ‘Broken White’ but in fact the disc plays her cover version of ‘Nutbush City Limits’ which also includes Anthrax man and her other half, Scott Ian on guitars and it really kicks up a storm for sure. I love the point where you think it’s all over and the band takes it down, only for Pearl and band to bring it right back in for a rocking finish!

Next up is clearly ‘Broken White’ that Pearl wrote based on a painting by Marlene Dumas, who tends to paint ‘dark’ related images and clearly here Pearl is influenced to write very darkly, even including in the lyrics a line like, ‘The Holy Ghost is a Holy whore.’ Charming! Pulling punches is something she certainly doesn’t do, she’s out to kick you where it hurts from the outset!
A very edgy track indeed, again as on ‘Nutbush …,’ featuring Scott Ian alongside Carl ‘Nalle’ Colt, sharing guitar duties.

On ‘Check Out Charlie’ she enlists the help of madman rocker Ted Nugent, who many may recalls joined Scott Ian on VH1’s ‘Supergroup.’ It almost reminds me of a Nugent track at times to be honest. Good groove.

She tends to ease back a little on ‘Mama’ next, that seriously has a bit of a Janis Joplin feel about it, kind of laid back soulful, blues feel to it and just eases onwards. Not bad.
She keeps the same kind of laid back vibe on the yet more soulful ‘My Heart Isn’t In It.’ Nice stuff.

OK, if ‘Rock Child’ isn’t a hit single, then ‘Nobody’ should be! This track builds up from gentle laid back sounds before thundering into the chorus and the chorus is really big and the guitar soloing here is great and it could be either of the aforementioned players or other guitarist here Jim Wilson. This track also features the strongest – yet – background vocals on the album on the last chorus. Great track!

Pearl takes on an almost country style vocal to ‘Worth Defending,’ but then again she pulls off that kind of semi ‘60’s Joplin type vocal vibe again. This track still has some tasty guitar breaks present with a more of a mid paced groove.

An almost Stones meets Allman Brothers like vibe takes place on ‘Lovepyre’ as well as some all too brief tasty harmony guitar work midway through and it rocks out with southern rock feel. Tasty!

Alright, if next track, ‘Whore’ doesn’t make you think Aerosmith I’ll be surprised! Her main backing band here consists of members of Mother Superior who wrote both the music and lyrics to this track, which with the exception of ‘Nutbush City Limits’ is the only track here that Pearl did not have a hand in writing.

Final track here ‘Anything’ features a guest guitarist in the shape of Alice in Chains' Jerry Cantrell and it’s actually a beautifully laid back blues number, really nice album closer.

So, yes indeed it’s a very good album that I’ve played again and again recently by a clearly talented vocalist, that I’m sure we’ll be hearing more of. Good job!

Rating: 4 out of 5
Websites:
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