Friday, February 18, 2011

Rock News Update for Friday 18th February, 2011

Hi folks, well, yes, the news is late going out today and yes, it is also very limited as I really don't have much else to share with you ...
Press releases - From my sources! - have been quiet, the various sites I ran around trying to find new news, are all kind of lame ..., so really this is about it!
Sorry all ....
I will share that last night, I got to catch a great rockin' blues set, from Detroit legend, Jim McCarty (ex-Mitch Ryder and Detroit Wheels, The Rockets, Bob Seger, etc) at a local bar, as he joined local band Broken Arrow for a set, before the bar then opened up the evening open jam night.
As I'm not originally from Detroit, my background knowledge, didn't really help me a lot on the songs Jim sung and played, but I need to investigate more, as he ceratinly appears a class act!
Nice one Jim!


FRONTIERS RECORDS SET TO RELEASE SPECIAL EDITION
ASIA BOX SET LIVE CD/DVD: "SPIRIT OF THE NIGHT -
THE PHOENIX TOUR LIVE IN CAMBRIDGE 2009" MARCH 8TH

ACCLAIMED ASIA "OMEGA" TOUR CONTINUES THIS SPRING IN
NORTH AMERICA


(New York, NY) - Frontiers Records is set to release a special edition live CD/DVD box set from supergroup Asia. SPIRIT OF THE NIGHT - THE PHOENIX TOUR LIVE IN CAMBRIDGE 2009 will be released in North America on March 8th. The CD boasts 13 tracks, which includes a CD-only track exclusive, as well as a bonus track, while the DVD features 85 minutes of material, as well as bonus DVD content including an EPK and special footage of "In The Court Of The Crimson King" featuring King Crimson founding member Ian MacDonald.
Please see below for full track listings. The CD and DVD will also be available for purchase separately.
In support of the new live release and their most recent studio album OMEGA (also released via Frontiers Records), Asia will tour in North America, kicking off dates at The State Theatre in Easton, PA on Thursday, April 28th. Please see below for the tour itinerary.

Asia's self-titled debut album exploded onto the music scene in March, 1982, selling over 4 million copies in North America alone, upon its initial release. The album featured several Top 10 singles including the ubiquitous "Heat Of The Moment." Asia's supergroup line-up features keyboardist Geoff Downes (Yes, The Buggles), guitarist Steve Howe (Yes), drummer Carl Palmer (Emerson, Lake & Palmer) and bassist/vocalist John Wetton (UK, King Crimson). Though all four accomplished musicians had seen chart-topping success in their previous bands, Asia had a special chemistry that fans and music industry insiders were quick to recognize. Throughout 1982, Asia ruled the radio airwaves and MTV and sold out every date on tour. Asia's debut record remained the best-selling disc of 1982, commanding the #1 spot on Billboard's album chart for an astonishing 9 weeks. After 23 years apart, the four original band members reunited in 2006, and have toured globally, releasing two new studios albums since getting back together.

SPIRIT OF THE NIGHT - THE PHOENIX TOUR LIVE IN CAMBRIDGE 2009

CD listing:
1. Only Time Will Tell
2. Time Again
3. An Extraordinary Life
4. My Own Time
5. Open Your Eyes
6. Fanfare For The Common Man (CD exclusive)
7. Here Comes The Feeling
8. Never Again
9. The Heat Goes On
10. Sole Survivor
11. Don't Cry
12. Heat Of The Moment
13. Midnight Sun (bonus track)

DVD listing:
1. Only Time Will Tell
2. Time Again
3. An Extraordinary Life
4. My Own Time
5. Open Your Eyes
6. My Own Time
7. Open Your Eyes
8. Here Comes Te Feeling
9. Never Again
10. The Heat Goes On
11. Sole Survivor
12. Don't Cry
13. Heat Of The Moment

Asia on tour:

APRIL 2011
28 Easton, PA The State Theatre
29 Glenside, PA Keswick Theatre
30 Tarrytown, NY Tarrytown Music Hall

MAY 2011
1 Alexandria, VA Birchmere
3 Annapolis, MD Ram's Head Tavern
4 Annapolis, MD Ram's Head Tavern
5 Morristown, NJ The Mayo Center For The Performing Arts
6 Verona, NY The Turning Stone Casino And Resort
7 Rama, ON Casino Rama
9 Montreal, QC Metropolis
12 Peshawbestown, MI Leelanau Sands Casino
13 Chicago, IL House Of Blues
14 Milwaukee, WI Pabst Theatre

For more information, please visit:


RICHARD ASHCROFT TO RELEASE UNITED NATIONS OF SOUND ON MARCH 22
SPECIAL SHOWS IN NEW YORK AND BOSTON CONFIRMED

PERFORMANCE WITH THE ROOTS ON
LATE NIGHT WITH JIMMY FALLON CONFIRMED FOR RELEASE DAY


(New York, NY) - Richard Ashcroft, legendary front man for The Verve, will release his first solo album in four years, United Nations of Sound, on March 22 through Razor & Tie. To celebrate the release, Ashcroft will be performing two special shows in the U.S. - March 23 at the Bowery Ballroom in New York and March 24 at the Villa Victoria Center for the Arts in Boston (part of the Jim Beam Live Music Series) - marking his first performances in America since 2008.

Fans across the country will be able to see Richard Ashcroft perform his new single "Are You Ready?" with support from house band The Roots when he stops by Late Night with Jimmy Fallon on release day, March 22. He will also perform a yet-to-be-announced second track that will run exclusively on http://www.latenightwithjimmyfallon.com/

Ashcroft's track "Are You Ready?" will be featured in the closing credits to the new Matt Damon film, The Adjustment Bureau, out in March A second track, "Future's Bright," which was co-written by Richard and ten-time Academy Award nominee Thomas Newman, will be featured within the film as well.

United Nations of Sound is Richard Ashcroft's most ambitious solo work to date. The album features 12 songs produced by noted hip-hop producer No I.D. (Kanye West, Jay-Z, Common). No I.D. worked with Richard to create a huge sound that makes use of live orchestration, big beats and his widest range of influences yet. Spin Magazine said the result a "fruitful collaboration" and Nylon Magazine called the new album "a commanding performance."

RICHARD ASHCROFT U.S. PERFORMANCES:

March 23 New York, NY Bowery Ballroom
March 24 Boston, MA Villa Victoria Center for The Arts (Jim Beam Live Music Series)


ABOUT RICHARD ASHCROFT:
Richard Ashcroft first came to prominence as the enigmatic singer for The Verve in 1992. After two acclaimed albums the band finally exploded in America on the strength of their third, 1997's Urban Hymns, which contained the all-time classic "Bitter Sweet Symphony," propelling it to Platinum status. After their break-up in 1999, Richard launched his solo career the next year with the album Alone With Everybody, reaching #1 on the UK album chart. He followed with 2002's Human Condition and Keys to the World in 2006 before reuniting with The Verve for 2008's Forth, which they supported with a major world tour. The Verve parted ways for good in 2009.


Jethro Tull - Aqualung 40th Anniversary Tour hits USA/Canada in June

Jethro Tull visits the USA/Canada in June in celebration of the snotted one's 40th. Just a few shows officially announced at moment but expect more soon.

40th Anniversary Aqualung USA Tour

JUNE 2011
8 Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheater
10 Phoenix, AZ Comerica Theatre
19 Vancouver, BC - The Centre in Vancouver
25 Minneapolis, MN Orpheum Theatre
21 Edmonton, AB Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
22 Calgary, AB Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
23 Regina, SK Casino Regina-Show Lounge
26 Chicago Chicago Theater
Official site: www.j-tull.com/
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Thursday, February 17, 2011

The Poodles - No Quarter (Live!) album review

The Poodles - No Quarter (Live) album review
Released on: Frontiers Records Release date: Available now


I have to say, I heard of the Poodles a couple of years ago from friends who had seen them at the UK's Firefest festival.
For me, like probably many people, with a name like the Poodles and some of the photo shots that I'd seen before, they looked like it's hard to take them seriously, but ....

By the way, my apologies to those of you that expected to see this review sooner, it's been pretty time lately time wise and just trying to keep up the news folks, but finally, I've got to this review!

Anyway, I have to admit, on hearing The Poodles ..., you start thinking, wow! Why didn't they pick a better name?
Well, perhaps if you think about it, if you're a hard rock act and you call yourself The Poodles over say a name like Dark Night or Iron Bridge (Note: These are just pie in the sky examples), names that you may possibly automatically pigeon hole any act as just 'another' rock band and why should I even listen to them ...

With a name like the Poodles and being a hard rock band, you are seriously going to draw attention to yourselves, the same could've been said maybe if they'd called themselves Ruff Dogs or Big Dog Rock (Note: Again folks, just examples) or something similar, anyway, I'm sure you take my meaning ...
Now I say, get over it! The Poodles are a seriously good, hard rockin' band, think modern day Europe with perhaps some Scorpions or even hugely underrated 80's German act Craaft.
Yes, they sound that good!

The band was actually formed back in 2006 and their first album was 'Metal Will Stand Tall,' perhaps a cheesy title that brings to mind silly metal acts like Manowar - Sorry, I could never take them seriously! - and they've also released two other studio releases since in 'Sweet Trade' and 'Clash of the Elements' and now here's a live album and it's not bad at all!

I never heard the studio releases before and sometimes, a band's live album can be a great way of getting into a new band. This one, I can't recommend strongly enough if you like catchy hard rock with a metal edge. Get over the name and glam image, these guys serious can rock out!

The album opens with the excellent 'Too Much of Everything' which is a class piece that perhaps starts sounding dark with a hint of symphonic metal, but before too long, vocalist Jakob Samuel has you totally sold. OK, at times he maybe borders on Axl Rose, but he's got such a phenomenal voice and that range ... Wow! The song grows and the chorus will have you in no time!

'Caroline' next and no it's not the Status Quo or Neil Diamond tune, but there own hugely catchy song that should be a huge hit everywhere in the world, I mean this! What hooklines throughout their set and with choruses as big as these and it even hints possibly with a nod to Billy Idol's White Wedding, with parts of the riff, but for me it wipes the floor of that song and the guitar work of Henrik Bergqvist well put simply, it's very impressive and the band is tight! I will add this though, there's clearly keyboards to be heard here and if you've seen the DVD that was released at the same time as this, 'In the Flesh' you'll see no keyboards or keyboard player on the stage. By the way, likewise, the DVD is great! It's a very funny at times, behind the scenes look at the band, but it also shows the guys passion for what they do, without any doubt!

'Seven Seas' starts a little restrained but then picks up the pace and rocks well and then of course, next it's time for the title track of their debut album, 'Metal Will Stand Tall,' which displays the bands continued talent, but the chorus is a clear statement that they class themselves as metal. I love the pre-chorus myself and it's time for some serious crowd participation here too.

A very melodic, almost artsy start for '(Live) Like No Tomorrow,' before it gets into a heavy riff and once again the melodies in the pre-choruses are so strong and you will be singing the chorus, I guarantee it!

Power ballad time in 'One Out of Ten' next and the keyboards are very, very obvious here soundwise too but no sign of them, but another great song.
'Lullaby for Jimmy' starts in a mellow way too and cruises into a big old bluesy instrumental track.

Time for a drum solo spot for drummer 'Kicken,' er yes, that's the name he goes by ... He also gets the crowd singing along too!

'Echoes from the Past' is next and is a mid paced melodic rocker with once again that big old chorus and these guys really have got that hook line chorus detail, nailed!
Next track 'Thunderball' is still a strong track and yes, the chorus is still catchy, but the song seems to lack a little something compared to everything else, that said, it's the only one here that does so far ...

'I Rule the Night' kicks off in an almost Dio kind of fashion, but Jakob Samuel does not sound like Dio, but it rocks along well and 'Night of Passion' is another steady rocker, with again a catchy chorus.

I will say that towards the end of this set, the tracks are certainly not as instant generally as the first half and 'Flesh & Blood' chugs in places and then picks up the pace a little here and there, but it's still alright.

Final track is 'Line of Fire,' which does close things out pretty well as it seems to pick up the pace and gets back to some of those great melodies again.

So this is an album that really starts very strong, gains momentum hits a little average run, but then closes well.
I for one, can't wait to hear what this band shares with us next and I understand we won't all have too long to wait! “Performocracy” on April 15th in Europe and May 5th in North America.
Oh and by the way, get the DVD 'In the Flesh,' seriously, it well worth it!
Rating: 3.75 out of 5

Band website: http://www.poodles.se/

 
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Brief update for Thursday 17th February, 2011

Stryper announce North American Tour Dates in support of new album, 'The Covering.'


Lots of people are getting pretty excited by what they are hearing on Stryper's new album, their tribute to their influences in 'The Covering' released here in the US this past Tuesday.

The band has just announced a number of tour dates in support of the album and posted this statement at their site:

FEBRUARY 16, 2011 - Confirmed tour dates have been added to the tour page!
There are more dates to come and they will be added as they are confirmed.
The TOUR DATES are as follows:

DATE CITY VENUEMarch 2011
March 2, 2011 Seattle, WA - El Corazón
March 3, 2011 Portland, OR - Aladdin Theatre
March 5, 2011 Santa Clara, CA - Avalon Nightclub
March 8, 2011 San Juan Capistrano, CA - The Coach House
March 9, 2011 Los Angeles, CA - Club Nokia LA Live 
March 11, 2011 Las Vegas, NV - Santa Fe Station Casino
March 13, 2011 Lubbock, TX - Jake's Sports Cafe
March 14, 2011 Houston, TX - Scout Bar
March 15, 2011 San Antonio, TX - Backstage Live
March 16, 2011 Dallas, TX - Trees
March 18, 2011 Nashville, TN - Wildhorse Saloon
March 19, 2011 Detroit, MI - Harpos Concert Theatre
March 20, 2011 Chicago, IL - House of Blues Chicago
March 22, 2011 Baltimore, MD - Bourbon Street Ballroom
March 23, 2011 Pittsburgh, PA - Diesel
March 24, 2011 New York, NY - B.B. Kings
March 26, 2011 Foxborough, MA - Showcase Live

July 2011July 31, 2011 Zion, IL - Ignite FestivalThe band has also lined up a few international dates too.
Those dates are as follows:

INTERNATIONAL TOUR DATES
DATE CITY VENUE
May 2011
May 2011 Mexico TBA
June 2011
June 10, 2011 Solvesborg, Sweden - Sweden Rock Festival
June 24, 2011 Loreley, Germany - Rock The Nation Festival
June 25, 2011 Ferropolis, Germany - Rock The Nation Festival
Official band webiste: http://www.stryper.com/

Paul Rodgers UK touring band will include Jason Bonham

Sometime Bad Company vocalist and former Free frontman, Paul Rodgers will be playing a bunch of UK live dates in April 2011 and he is pulling in Jason Bonham (Black Country Communion, Led Zeppelin, UFO, Foreigner) to help on on the live dates.

Bonham's most recent activities include a tribute Led Zeppelin showcase tour in honour of his late Father, John (Bonham), across North America late last year and more recently, he's been working on his most recent project Black Country Communion, that also features Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Hughes / Thrall, Trapeze).

The live dates will be at:

APRIL 2011
FRIDAY 15 BLACKPOOL OPERA HOUSE
SATURDAY 16 SHEFFIELD CITY HALL
MONDAY 18 NEWCASTLE CITY HALL: DUE TO DEMAND MOVED TO NEWCASTLE ARENA
TUESDAY 19 GLASGOW CLYDE
THURSDAY 21 02 APOLLO MANCHESTER
FRIDAY 22 NOTTINGHAM ROYAL CENTRE
SUNDAY 24 BOURNEMOUTH BIC
MONDAY 25 SOUTHEND CLIFF PAVILIONS
WEDNESDAY 27 LONDON ROYAL ALBERT HALL
THURSDAY 28 BIRMINGHAM NIA

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


More on the Thunder 'reunion ...' It's not!

This update was posted earlier this week on Tuesday at the Thunder website, by their 'webmaster!'

Thunder News - Band Reunites for One Off UK Festival Appearance
Tuesday, 15 February 2011
Yes people, it’s true.

I’ve been informed today that the ex members of Thunder have agreed to reunite after almost 2 years apart, for a one off show at High Voltage Festival, at Victoria Park London on Sunday July 24th.

I’ve been asked to point out that this does not mean they’re getting back together, and there are no plans to record or release any new material. In fact Luke (Morley) and Chris (Childs) have asked me to stress that whilst they’re both chuffed to be doing a Thunder show, their commitment to The Union and the new album release (later this year) is undiminished, and the writing is going really well.
All ex-Thunder band members’ other activities will remain unchanged, and Harry (James) is about to go on tour with Magnum, so this really is a one off.

Danny (Bowes) says: “I can’t lie, I’ve missed singing and being in the band more than I thought I would over the past couple of years, so when High Voltage called last week, I was keen to explore it, as it was great last year. We’re still releasing the new “Rough & Ready” live album, but there’s no plan to do any other recording going forwards. It will be great to play again, and we’re really excited”.

Luke says: “I thoroughly enjoyed playing at the inaugural High Voltage last year with The Union so I'm really looking forward to getting together with the rest of the boys for a one-off reunion (no pun intended). Fortunately it fitted in nicely with everything else we're doing so in the end it was difficult to say no. I'm sure we'll have a lot of fun”.

Ben (Matthews) says: “We’re all busy with other things, so it took a bit of discussion to ensure there were no clashes, but we got it sorted. I only live down the road, and I can’t think of a better way to spend a sunny Sunday evening, so happy days!”

This is great news, I will of course be there, as I hope will you, but there is no more information, so please don’t bombard me for info on a new studio album, tour etc.

Full festival and line up details can be found at http://www.highvoltagefestival.com/

The Thin, Excited & Can’t Wait Until July One


Whitesnake free new song download and maybe win a signed guitar!

Yes, I guess David Coverdale is in a generous mood!
This just came through the fan mail late yesterday, to my inbox.

FREE WHITESNAKE MP3 DOWNLOAD - FREE GUITAR



Download the free "Love Will Set You Free" MP3 or pre-order their new album, FOREVERMORE and be automatically entered for a chance to win David Coverdale's own Mini Martin guitar used in the actual recording of FOREVERMORE!

This is an exclusive only at http://www.whitesnake.com/ and will only last a couple of days.
So be there!
There you have it, what are you waiting for folks, go get your free Whitesnake freebie!
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Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Rock News Update for Wednesday 16th February, 2011

Veteran Hard Rockers King Kobra are back with a venomous new album

Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of the Self-Titled come back album from KING KOBRA on April 15th in Europe and May 5th in North America.


Formed in 1984 by legendary drummer Carmine Appice (Vanilla Fudge, Rod Stewart, Ozzy Osbourne), Los Angeles heavy metal outfit King Kobra recorded two critically acclaimed albums for Capitol Records – the 1985 release 'Ready to Strike' and 1986's 'Thrill of a Lifetime'.

Along with Carmine, the band featured four relatively unknown musicians at the time – David Michael-Philips and Mick Sweda on guitar, Johnny Rod on bass and Mark Free on lead vocals.
King Kobra toured the U.S., Canada, Europe and Mexico playing shows with Kiss, Iron Maiden, Quiet Riot, Ted Nugent, Queensryche and Autograph.

The band was featured regularly on MTV and performed the theme song for the #1 1986 motion picture "Iron Eagle". After disbanding in 1988, each member continued his career in other successful major-label groups - Carmine to Blue Murder (Geffen), Mark Free to Unruly Child (Interscope), Mick Sweda to the BulletBoys (Warner Bros.), Johnny Rod to W.A.S.P. (Capitol/EMI) and David Michael-Philips to Lizzy Borden (Metal Blade).

The year 2010 saw the band reunite the original classic '85 lineup, replacing original singer Mark Free (now Marcie Free) with veteran lead vocalist Paul Shortino (Rough Cutt, Quiet Riot). “This album captures all the great points we had in the 80's, but better” says Carmine Appice “The music is more traditional King Kobra music. Great lyrics, kick ass songs with cool hooks and really good playing. A really great hard rock/metal record with lots of energy”.
David Michael-Phillips adds “It truly is an all-star album. Paul Shortino is amazing! I can honestly say he is one of the best vocalists in the business along with being one of the nicest and most generous people I have ever met”.

The band is planning to get on some targeted American and European summer festivals this year. Watch out: King Kobra is smokin' hot, back stronger than ever and "Ready to Strike" once again!


The new album “King Kobra” will include the following tracks: Rock This House, Turn Up The Good (Times), Live Forever, Tear Down The Walls, This Is How We Roll, Midnight Woman, We Got A Fever, Tope Of The World, You Make It Easy, Cryin' Turns To Rain, Screamin' For More, Fade Away.

Weblinks:

KING KOBRA
* Paul Shortino - vocals
* David Michael-Philips - Guitar
* Mick Sweda - Guitar
* Johnny Rod - Bass Guitar
* Carmine Appice - drums


Night Ranger adds more live dates with Journey

As previously announced here, Night Ranger will soon be out on the road later this month, playing some special dates with Journey.

The first dates are:
February 2011
02.23.11 Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino w/ Journey Las Vegas, NV
02.25.11 Reno Events Center w/ Journey Reno, NV

Three additional shows with Journey are:
04.12.11 Auditorio Nacional w/ Journey Mexico, DF
04.13.11 Arena Monterrey w/ Journey Monterrey, NL
04.16.11 Coliseo de Puerto Rico w/ Journey Hato Rey, PR

The band will then head to Japan for some live shows in early June, before then heading to Europe, for various live dates with Journey in Germany, Switzerland and Italy.
Then it will be back to the USA for regular summer live dates, so far confirmed future US dates are way ahead in August.

At some point either later this year or early next year, a new Night Ranger should be out, as well as a new solo album from frontman Jack Blades.
For all news and tour dates for Night Ranger:


Brief snippets of info for you ...


Michael Schenker new album on the way, his site reports:

Michael (Schenker) is currently in the studio recording a New Album to be released in late Summer.
More about it soon.

He will take a little time out though to play a few South American shows:

FEB 22 2011 Teatro Metropolitan Mexico City MEX
FEB 24 2011 Bolshoi Pub Goiânia BRA
FEB 25 2011 Manifesto Rock Bar Sao Paulo BRA
FEB 27 2011 The Roxy Buenos Aires ARG


Stone Temple Pilots add two more shows

Stone Temple Pilots have shared the following news with fans:

STP has announced two more shows, including local rock station, the WRIF's 40th anniversary show at Detroit's Fillmore.
Tickets go on sale this Saturday, February 19 but if you're a fan club member and you want to make sure you're in the door, get on board for the exclusive Fan Club presale. 

The two shows are:
April 2011
Apr 20, 2011 Detroit, MI - The Fillmore
Apr 22, 2011 Indiana, PA - Kovalchick Complex

For all news and all current tour dates for S.T.P. go to:

Rock Fest in Cadott, WI will run for 4 days!

I could of course write loads about another rock festival, but I think I perhaps already did enough on that in yesterdays news.
This new event though I will say is perhaps intriguing, as it will feature a certain British rock act, who have at least three band members are all currently separated by playing in different side projects.
Yes, apparently Def Leppard will be reunited to play at the 'Rock Fest' in Cadott, WI, headlining on Sunday 17th July, a day that will also feature special guests Heart, Tesla and Jackyl.
The four day festival will kick off on the Thursday 14th July, with Rob Zombie headlining and that days guests will be Slaughter, Cinderella and Three Days Grace.
For more details, go to the official festival site at: www.rock-fest.com/


Foo Fighters New Album’s details

The Foo Fighters have released the name of their new album.
The band will release their seventh studio album to be titled "Wasting Light" and will be available on April 12. The lead single for the new effort by Dave Grohl and company will be “Rope.”

Producer Butch Vig helmed the sessions for the album, which was recorded in Grohl’s garage.
The album will feature a mini-Nirvana reunion. Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic guests on Wasting Light, which, of course, features former Nirvana drummer Grohl and Nevermind producer Vig.
Wasting Light tracklisting:
1. “Bridge Burning”
2. “Rope”
3. “Dear Rosemary”
4. “White Limo”
5. “Arlandria”
6. “These Days”
7. “Back & Forth”
8. “A Matter of Time”
9. “Miss the Misery”
10. “I Should Have Known”
11. “Walk”

Official band site: http://www.foofighters.com/
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Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Rock News Update for Tuesday 15th February, 2011

UK's 2011 High Voltage festival adds more acts

Yes, the bill for what looks like becoming a now annual event, the High Voltage festival in London's Victoria Park, has today announced more acts added to the already interesting bill.

The organisers have now added, two more big name acts in Seattles Queensryche and surprise, surprise ..., former UK favourites Thunder will reform to play High Voltage in their only 2011 performance, so they say.

An early 70's Prog Rock act, Curved Air has also been added to 2011's line up.
Additional acts have also been announced today, but I'll leave that to the festival's press release for today for you to discover:

High Voltage Announces Further Acts For 2011


Following the launch of the UK’s new prestige rock festival, in 2010, High Voltage returns in 2011 with exclusive performances from headliners Judas Priest and Dream Theater, UK festival exclusives from Black Country Communion, Jethro Tull and Spock’s Beard and performances from Michael Schenker Group, Caravan, The Enid, Pallas and Mostly Autumn. The further acts announced are:

QUEENSRYCHE (Main Stage) – UK festival exclusive
Queensryche are one of the classic metal bands, with worldwide albums sales of over 20 million. Formed in Seattle in the days before grunge, the band broke into the rock mainstream with the brilliant concept album Operation: Mindcrime and scored a top ten US hit with the single Silent Lucidity. Queensrcyhe’s most recent album American Soldier was another powerful and politically charged concept album – and another top 30 US hit.

THUNDER (Main Stage) – UK festival exclusive
Thunder, one of the UK’s biggest and best loved rock bands, are making a surprise return at High Voltage having split up in 2009. The band have had a hugely successful 20 year career and built a reputation as one of the great festival acts. Thunder guitarist Luke Morley also appeared at the inaugural High Voltage in 2010 with his acclaimed new band The Union. High Voltage will be a UK festival exclusive for Thunder.

NEAL MORSE (Prog Stage)
Neal Morse is a founding member of Spock’s Beard and Transatlantic, and a leading figure in modern progressive rock. His new album Testimony 2 features his Transatlantic bandmate and ex-Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy, who describes the album as “a masterpiece”. Neal returns to High Voltage having headlined the Prog Stage in 2010 with Transatlantic.

SAINT JUDE (Main Stage)
Saint Jude are a London-based rock ‘n’ roll band whose singer Lynne Jackaman has been likened to Janis Joplin and whose fans include none other than rock legend Ronnie Wood. Hailed by Classic Rock magazine as “one of the most talked about and hotly tipped bands of the moment”, Saint Jude are currently working on the follow-up to their 2010 debut album Diary Of A Soul Fiend.

ANATHEMA (Prog Stage)
Anathema formed in Liverpool in 1990 and in an acclaimed career their music has developed from doom metal to Pink Floyd-inspired progressive rock. In 2010 the band released its eighth album, We’re Here Because We’re Here, mixed by Porcupine Tree’s Steven Wilson and rated by Classic Rock as ‘Prog Album Of The Year’.

CURVED AIR (Prog Stage)
Curved Air is the legendary English progressive rock group whose early albums, such as 1970’s Airconditioning, are landmarks in the genre. The band’s famous alumni include Stewart Copeland (The Police) and Eddie Jobson (Roxy Music, Jethro Tull). The current line-up of Curved Air features founder members Sonja Kristina (vocals), and Florian Pilkington-Miksa with Chris Harris (Bass), Kit Morgan (Guitar), Robert Norton (Keyboards), and Paul Sax (Violin)


High Voltage is the festival all true rock fans have been waiting for – custom built by rock fans for rock fans. The High Voltage team has been to every rock festival imaginable – taking what they have learned to build a festival unlike any other.
First of all there’s the music: Amazing headliners AND three unique stages specially curated to cater for different sides of the rock audience, and a brilliant supporting cast playing special must-see sets. Then there’s the festival itself. The facilities will be second to none: great food, proper beer, clean toilets and deluxe hospitality packages. This is somewhere you take the whole family.

High Voltage offers a new and unique festival experience for rock fans of all ages. Only High Voltage gives ticket buyers the freedom to design their own bespoke festival package – which can include accommodation, transport and VIP entertainment.
Tickets priced £99 (for weekend tickets) and £56.50 (for day tickets) – subject to booking fee. VIP tickets will be available at £105.00 for the day, £199.00 for the weekend – subject to booking fee. There will also be various VIP and hotel packages available, at varying price levels to suit.

Official festival site: www.highvoltagefestival.com/


US Rock Festival fans look forward to M3 and Rocklahoma

Yes, in the US, rock fan can also look forward to a couple of big name annual weekend festivals keeping things going with both the M3 Rock Festival, in Columbia, MD at the MERRIWEATHER POST PAVILION and also Rocklahoma, in Pryor, OK.
M3 will feature over two days, a very 80's driven line up, with Whitesnake as headliners on the Saturday May 14th and 80's rockers Kix, opening festival events as headliner on the Friday 13th May, alongside special guests Warrant, LA Guns and Jetboy.
Whitesnake will have acts such as Tesla, Sebastian Bach, Lita Ford, Firehouse, Slaughter and Great White to name a few.

Rocklahoma is a much more heavier looking event, taking place on the weekend of May 27th, 28th and 29th. This year the event is being headlined by Motley Crue, along with Staind, also Whitesnake and Sebastian Bach, but harder edged rockers such as Seether, Pap Roach, Black Label Society and All That Remains amongst many others.

Here's their flyers:


 
 
 
 
 
ICONIC ROCK FRONTMAN SEBASTIAN BACH INKS WITH FRONTIERS RECORDS WORLDWIDE FOR MULTI-ALBUM DEAL

BACH HEADED IN TO STUDIO THIS MONTH FOR SUMMER 2011 RELEASE

Frontiers Records is proud to announce the signing of golden-voiced, iconic rock frontman Sebastian Bach to an exclusive worldwide, multi-album recording contract. Bach will head in to the studio later this month with his new young virtuosic guitarist Nick Sterling to record a brand new album. Producer Bob Marlette (Black Sabbath, Shinedown, Atreyu, Filter) will be at the helm. The album is tentatively scheduled for a summer, 2011 worldwide release.

Sebastian Bach commented, “I would like to sincerely thank all at Frontiers Records for their support and belief in me, my band and the new tunes. Expect an album full of high-energy rock n’ roll with kick-ass clean and clear vocals, along with me laying down the craziest screams I have recorded in my life thus far… To all of the rockers of the world, thank you for letting me create killer music for the past two decades, and all I can say is, we are just warming up mothertruckers!”
Frontiers Records President Serafino Perugino added, “We are pleased and honored to be at the service of Sebastian Bach! We look forward to help make his forthcoming album a hard rock milestone!”

Sebastian Bach has sold in excess of 20 million records worldwide as lead singer with his former band, Skid Row and as a solo artist. Far from just being a multi-platinum recording artist, the singer/songwriter/actor/entertainer has expanded his career over the past decade to include episodic television with a 5-season recurring role on the CW’s hit series “Gilmore Girls”, starring roles on Broadway (“Jekyll & Hyde”, “The Ricky Horror Picture Show”) and national touring companies (“Jesus Chris Superstar”), as well as an ongoing relationship with MTV/VH1.

Weblinks:


Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band confirm extra dates

For fans of the man from Motor City, Bob Seger, news of his latest tour dates with The Silver Bullet Band has got many people on the edge of their seats.

The sad view by many is that the guy is too old to rock 'n' roll, but I stand by what I've said before, when we caught him back on his last 'Face the Promise' tour, that ran with dates in 2006 into 2007, the man showed that he could still belt out some good, 'old time rock 'n' roll!'
The 'Face the Promise' album was also nothing to be sneezed at.
Seger apparently plans to record new music, after this next set of live dates and may even hit the road again after that!
Doesn't sound like retirement at this time is on the cards for him anytime soon either!

At this time the following dates have so far been confirmed:

Date / City / Venue:
March 2011
Sat 03/26/11 Toledo, OH The Huntington Center
Tue 03/29/11 Saginaw, MI Arena at Dow Event Center
Thu 03/31/11 Toledo, OH The Huntington Center

April 2011Sat 04/02/11 Grand Rapids, MI Van Andel Arena
Tue 04/05/11 Cincinnati, OH U.S. Bank Arena
Thu 04/07/11 Cleveland, OH Quicken Loans Arena
Sat 04/09/11 Buffalo, NY HSBC Arena
Official website: www.bobseger.com/
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Monday, February 14, 2011

Rock News Update for Monday 14th February, 2011

Thin Lizzy more US live dates announced


Yes folks, I'm pleased to be able to share the news that the current line up of Thin Lizzy, who recently announced a few US live dates, have added a few more, for their tour in March / April 2011!

The current line including past Lizzy members Brian Downey, Scott Gorham, Darren Wharton and Marco Mendoza, who are now joined by guitarist Vivian Campbell (Def Leppard, Dio, Whitesnake, Riverdogs) and Ricky Warwick (The Almighty, New Model Army) on lead vocals will be playing the following dates:

DATE LOCATION VENUE:

March 2011
03/24/2011 Jim Thorpe, PA. Penn's Peak *
03/25/2011 New York, NY. Best Buy Theatre *
03/26/2011 Uncasville, CT. Mohegan Sun Casino Wolf's Den *
03/27/2011 Sayreville, NJ. Starland Ballroom *
03/29/2011 Glenside, PA. Keswick Theatre Get Tickets
03/31/2011 Detroit, MI. Sound Board at Motor City Casino Hotel *

April 2011
04/01/2011 Chicago, IL. Vic Theatre *

* Check venue website or local ticket agent
Looking forward to seeing the guys in Detroit! :)

They have also made available on a 2 CD set, 'Thin Lizzy - Live in London,' of their last two London gigs at Hammersmith Apollo and at the IndigO2, although I think that the price of £20 each, is a little steep, as I'm sure all you're getting is a basic cover and the two discs.
These are availble here:


There are three sample tracks Jailbreak (Hammersmith), Whisky In The Jar and Boys Are Back In Town (IndigO2) over at the site, so at least you can hear the sound quality, before you buy.
For all information on the current Lizzy band's activities, go to:


Geezer Butler makes statement on Black Sabbath future

On Saturday, over at Geezer Butler's (Black Sabbath, Heaven and Hell) website, he's made a definitive statement on the future of Black Sabbath.

Black Sabbath Statement
Posted on February 12, 2011

I would like to make it clear, because of mounting speculation and rumours, that there will be definitely NO reunion of all four original members of Black Sabbath, whether to record an album or to tour.

Geezer Butler

So there you have it, the Black Sabbath website also posted it here:
 
 
Def Leppard to issue Steve Clark tribute shirts
 
 
I really can't believe that this is the major announcement that Def Leppard had teased everyone with last week, when they said they have a major announcement coming soon at the site ...
If it is, it's a nice gesture to the memory of Steve Clark (RIP), hopefully something goes his family's way though as it's not too cool if the band are making money off something that specifically relates to their late guitarist.
Here's the details:
 
Steve Clark tribute shirts
This year, we want to do something special on Steve Clark's birthday. As most of you know, Steve was Def Leppard's co-founding guitarist from the late 70s to 1991, and would have turned 51 on April 23. Unfortunately, Steve passed at the age of 30 from an accidental overdose of prescription drugs and alcohol.


To pay tribute to Steve, we are releasing a special T-shirt soon. This shirt, of which you can see the design on the left, will only be available through Def Leppard's online store, and only for a very limited time. Also, in order to keep it exclusive, we will only produce the shirt in limited quantities. To be sure that you get your shirt, please enter your email address in the box below. This will guarantee that you will be notified first as soon as we take orders, and you won't miss out.
Here's the link:


MICHAEL ANTHONY POSTS, 'IN THE STUDIO WITH CHICKENFOOT'


Chickenfoot have been in the studio working on the follow-up to their hugely successful debut CD and after only two weeks have already recorded a dozen tracks!

The band are working with Mike Fraser at Sammy Hagar's private studio in Northern California and are having fun and working at a lightning pace.

Adds Mad (Michael) Anthony, "We're all very excited about the new songs and can't wait to share them with our fans!"
Details of this and more at: http://www.madanthonycafe.com/


James Kottak to play or sing on your album?

You've seen him play on the last few Scorpions tours as well as with his own band, Kottak, now how would you like him to come and play drums, play a little guitar or even sing on your album?
Well, now's your chance to do just that! Read on, this has been posted over at the Scorpions website: 

Musicians...want James Kottak, the drummer of the Scorpions, to play or sing on your album?

For a limited time only James Kottak is accepting submissions to record on on a first come first serve basis. It's simple, contact genius engineer Kevin Hahn. He will explain the technical details, rates, and answer any questions you may have.

Kevin Hahn

Rock & Roll Forever!

James Kottak





JUST IN TIME FOR VALENTINES DAY ... WHITESNAKES
NEW VIDEO "LOVE WILL SET YOU FREE" MAKES ITS
WORLD PREMIERE ON VEVO TODAY

NEW ALBUM "FOREVERMORE" DUE OUT MARCH 29TH


New York, NY) Just in time for Valentines Day ... the perfect blend of Rock and Romance...Whitesnake has partnered with VEVO for the world premiere of the brand new video "Love Will Set You Free". As of today, Monday, February 14th, the video can be viewed here. Directed by Devin DeHaven/Fortress Entertainment (Papa Roach, Method Man, Talib Kweli), the video was shot at Lake Tahoe, NV. "Love Will Set You Free" is the first single from the forthcoming Whitesnake album, "FOREVERMORE", and is available for purchase now at all digital stores.

View the "Love Will Set You Free" video now on the Special Valentines edition of http://www.whitesnake.com/

"FOREVERMORE" is due out on March 29th in North America and finds founder/singer/songwriter David Coverdale and company returning to their no-holds-barred, bluesiest, sexiest rock n roll roots. This will be Whitesnakes 11th studio album & the first release via the Italian-based Frontiers Records label. "FOREVERMORE" was recorded, produced and mixed by Los Bros Brutalos (Coverdale, Doug Aldrich and Michael McIntyre) at Snakebyte Studios and Grumblenott Studios & Villas in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, with additional work at Casa Dala, Sherman Oaks, CA.

About Whitesnake

Formed in 1977, and steered by the legendary David Coverdale, Whitesnake carry a rightful reputation as one of the worlds leading rock n roll bands. Coverdales blues roots, combined with a feral sense of rock and roll, have consistently shaped the Snakes sound along with Coverdales love and appreciation of impeccable musicianship. Whitesnakes ascent to the very top of the rock n roll heap was confirmed with 1987s self-titled mega-platinum album, which saw two massive Top 10 hits, two #1 singles with "Here I Go Again" , which is currently at over 11 million hits on Youtube, and "Is This Love" over 10 million hits, For several years it had a virtual 24-hour domination of MTV around the world. Whitesnake is David Coverdale (vocals), Doug Aldrich (guitars), Reb Beach (guitars), Michael Devin (bass) and Briian Tichy (drums).

About VEVO

VEVO is the leading premium music video and entertainment service with 1.7 billion worldwide streams and over 60 million unique visitors in the U.S. and Canada each month. VEVO's programming is made available across the VEVO platform, which includes http://www.vevo.com/ (the service's marquee destination site), VEVO Mobile (iPhone, iPod touch), VEVO connected devices (Google TV, Boxee) and a VEVO-branded embedded player. VEVO also syndicates its programming to additional internet destination sites, including AOL, BET, CBS Interactive Music Group (including Last.fm), Univision and, through a special partnership, VEVO on YouTube, expanding the platform's reach across the worldwide web.

Weblinks:
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