News Update for Saturday June 4th, 2011

Simon Wright shares a message on Dio's Disciples

Over at the Ronnie James Dio's site, now controlled or should that read, guided by the direction of Ronnie's widow Wendy Dio, there's an update posted on the band put together mainly by ex-Dio players, that go by the name, Dio's Disciples.

The line up is:

Tim "Ripper" Owens (Judas Priest, Yngwie Malmsteen) and Toby Jepson (Little Angels, Fastway, Gun) on Vocals, Simon Wright (Dio, AC/DC, UFO, M.S.G.) on drums, Craig Goldy (Dio, Giuffria, Rough Cutt) on Guitars, James LoMenzo (Ozzy Osbourne, Black Label Society, Megadeth, David Lee Roth) on Bass and Scott Warren (Dio, Heaven and Hell, Warrant).

A message from Simon Wright

'A big hello from myself and the DIO DISCIPLES to all you mighty DIO fans.
We are in rehearsal at the moment getting ready to embark on our first European tour, It's been very weird and a little emotional getting through the songs without Ronnie, I keep hearing him saying, in my head, "Lets try that part again" and "OK, lets run the set...", it helps to remind me that we have to keep playing and get the job done.
As Wendy said, "there will never be another Ronnie James Dio," absolutely 100% right. As we know though first and foremost Ron was a musician, and loved having a band and the music came first, with that in mind we all sat down talked and discussed the possibility of doing the DIO DISCIPLES project. The most important point was to be able to bring Ronnie's brilliant songs to the fans and celebrate them in the best way we know how in a live show with all of you.
Just as important is that while you read this we are doing this from the heart and for all the right reasons, Ron was like a father to me and over the years we became best friends, I'm not trying to one up anybody here, there are lots of people who loved Ron, especially and of course Wendy, but this band is something I feel very strongly about and positive about ,I wish we didn't have to do this project, I miss Ron everyday, but something tells me he would want us to carry on ,work hard and continue bringing you the fans, his music. Thanks for reading this. Simon Wright. DIO {DRUMS}1998 to 2010.'
Source: http://www.ronniejamesdio.com/


How about a completely new 'version' of 'Frampton Comes Alive?'

It seems Peter Frampton is joining the many ranks of bands that are selling live recordings of the show you have just seen, after the gig.
Yes indeed and as many folks will already be aware, Mr Frampton is currently celebrating the 35th Anniversary of his historic album, 'Frampton Comes Alive!'
He's promising to play a 3 hour show, every night, I mean come on, who else does that these days?!
Here's the details that he's just posted at his site:

Take home a LIVE CD from the FCA! 35 Tour!For the first time ever, Frampton is collaborating with Abbey Road Live to offer fans high quality, live CD recordings of each show in its entirety throughout the tour. These recordings are fully mixed, mastered, individually numbered and are available to buy from the Abbey Road Live booth after the show. Additionally, a bonus audio CD “rockumentary” is included, with Frampton being interviewed by longtime rock radio personality Redbeard. For those who cannot attend the shows the sets will be available to pre-order online from Monday, May 23 at:
http://www.abbeyroadliveus.com/
to be shipped directly to fans anywhere in the world.

Editor's note: Folks, this will be a 4 disc set and will sell for $35 - Online. -
I have absolutely no idea how much they will charge at the venue, so who knows, they may charge $40 - As prices at venues are often a rip off! - or who knows, maybe you'll be lucky and they'll only charge $30 - Since you already paid for your show ticket!
Whatever the case, it certainly sounds like a pretty special keepsake and deal, I certainly wouldn't mind one myself!

Keep up with all Peter Frampton news and tour dates at:
 http://frampton.com


Neil Peart on Letterman

CBS has announced that Neil Peart will be the grand finale to a “drum solo week” on Letterman the week of June 6th (yes, you read that right).

The rhythm section gets its due when the LATE SHOW with DAVID LETTERMAN presents “Drum Solo Week,” featuring some of the finest drummers in music, Monday, June 6-Thursday, June 9 (11:35 PM-12:37 AM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.
The air drumming from home begins on Monday June 6th with a drum solo performance by the LATE SHOW’s very own Anton Fig, longtime drummer for Paul Shaffer and the CBS Orchestra.On Tuesday, June 7, renowned drummer and percussionist Sheila E. performs on the broadcast.
On Wednesday, June 8, legendary drummer Roy Haynes, who has performed with such jazz greats as Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Sarah Vaughn, will take the Ed Sullivan Theater stage.
And the finale drum solo performance of the week on Thursday, June 9 goes to Neil Peart, drummer for the legendary rock band Rush and regarded as one of the greatest drum soloists in rock music.

Official CBS website: http://www.cbs.com/late_night/late_show/


Judie Tzuke - 'One Tree Less' new album available for Pre Order


Having been a bit of a Judie Tzuke fan over the years, I was also aware that many others rockers - Well, in the UK for sure ... - also enjoy the lady's music, so when the latest newsletter came in with some updates and of course news of Judie's latest studio album, I felt it just wasn't right, not to share!

Hello Everyone,

First of all thanks again for all the lovely feedback regarding 'The October Road,' it really makes us feel good.
Our excellent friend Vin Goodwin, the mastermind for the wonderful 'Welcome to the Tzuke'event, has posted a video of Judie performing 'Submarine Boy' at the Union Chapel, such a lovely venue, such a fabulous night.
Here is a link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOO163HrbWg
(The October Road is also now available as a download via iTunes and other reputable download sites).
I have been getting lots of requests for tour information, at this point we are looking at putting some dates in for early 2012. I will keep you informed if this plan becomes more solid.

As you know Judie's next album, 'One Tree Less' is in the process of being recorded and everyone who's heard the progress so far, has been blown away. It does feel like this is going to be a very special album, and of course we want to do these great songs justice, unfortunately that involves spending more money, with this in mind we have decided to do an album pre-order with a difference.
Firstly I'd like to say that if you want to wait for the album launch, the album will be on sale at the normal price via the usual outlets.
But, the great thing about the pre-order is that you will receive the album before the official release and you will have the chance to own an authentic, original and unique 'Welcome to the Cruise' Gold Record which was originally given to Paul Muggleton to celebrate 100,000
albums sold. This is not offered up lightly but he feels that 'One Tree Less' is worth the sacrifice.

So one lucky pre-orderer will receive the Gold Record and five others will receive framed pictures of the iconic 'Welcome to the Cruise' cover. A video of the draw will be placed on YouTube.
The cost to pre-order 'One Tree Less' will be £15 + P&P - Go to http://www.tzuke.com/shopcart/studio_cds.php to see a picture of the Gold Disk, and to place your order. At this point we are looking for the album to be released in the Autumn.
We hope that you understand that Judie's albums are recorded completely independently with your support and we sometimes need to find different ways to fund our recordings but we hope you appreciate the results.

For those of you who like to hear Judie's new projects often in a demo form, she has created a Soundcloud page -www.soundcloud.com/judie-tzuke.
Tracks placed on this page will generally be unannounced and the tracks also won't stay up for very long, so be sure to check regularly.

Speaking of new things, the house and studio where Judie, Bailey and their many musical friends write and record much of their music appears to have become sentient and created a Twitter account. Check out @thepinkhouse to see what is happening and who is visiting on a day to day basis. www.twitter.com/the_pink_house


Good News for all of the Bailey Tzuke fans out there, as well as having the 'Alive' and 'Laid Bare' EPs we have also found 20 copies of Bailey's first single/EP 'Strong' featuring studio versions of 'Strong' and 'My Waltz' and two dance re-mixes of 'Strong'. It will probably be a while before this EP is available again so don't miss you chance to own it!
www.tzuke.com/shopcart/baileytzuke.php

All the best,
Jamie

So there you go folks, go check it all out!
For more information on Judie Tzuke, go to: http://www.tzuke.com/

King Kobra - King Kobra album review

King Kobra – King Kobra album review

Released on: Frontiers Records. Release Date: Available now.

You know, yes, I'm going to give you a similar line, to what you've heard before, but thanks to so many of these bands from the 80's reuniting and recording new material. You know what else? It makes me conscious that I never did get into the band when they were at their peak, way back, but King Kobra are back now, with new material and a self titled new album

Opening with ‘Rock This House,’ wow, is it the 80’s all over again?!

I must say this is classic big hair rock / metal stuff, kind of Van Halen like, as so many acts were influenced by, but then King Kobra had their own sound and with Carmine Appice on drums, you knew it was powerful.

Paul Shortino (Ex-Rough Cutt, Quiet Riot) is now in the lead vocalist slot, for original Kobra vocalist Mark Free who is now Marcie Free, who fronts Unruly Child these days.

There is a down side here though, for me the production and mix really doesn’t sound that great, disappointing.

Don’t know if it’s just my copy of the recordings, but throughout the album there are a lot of places where it has that fading in and out phasing type effect.

On ‘Turn Up The Good Times’ Paul almost sings the song in a Spin Doctors like fashion and whether it's how Carmine always likes to play slightly off time here and there, I don’t know. This track seems to drift a little for me and again, sound quality overall is again a letdown.

There’s something about the vibe in ‘Live Forever’ that I really like, whichcould be the tracks’ borderline power ballad type feel or not, I don’t know. Again, it’s really riding that 80’s sound that is once again so popular, so I guess they're going with the flow here.

On ‘Tear Down The Walls,’ Shortino almost reminds me of Eddie Money initially and again the song’s really not too bad at all, although the chorus is the big chant style approach, if perhaps a little off. Steady style rocker.

‘This is How We Roll,’ is a hard rocking sleazy number ala Motley Crue and the and I don’t know if the band ‘added’ a live audience ‘drop in’ at start and finish or whether they did record it live?

I have to say, there’s a very clichéd presentation here overall and I guess you can’t blame the band, as so many 80’s / 90’s band of this ilk are reforming now and many of them are releasing material that’s very similar to where they left off, not having got into King Kobra back in their heyday, I cannot compare, so I’m really just telling it how it sounds here.

‘Midnight Woman’ is very much just like that, ‘Sheeeee’s Myyyyy Midnight Woman ...,’ is right there on that path.

‘We’ve Got a Fever’ is aain another strong chorus driven song and indeed many here are, but I feel it’s lacking a certain something.

Next up we have ‘Top of the World,’ which is a steady rocker, big chorus of course, but verse wise, it doesn’t seem to grab me.

Carmine Appice said, “This album captures all the great points we had in the 80's, but better. 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”

Well, he’s certainly spot on with the choruses, can’t argue that and Paul Shortino, often sounds like he’s very close to hitting stuff in a similar fashion to many vocalists. I hear hints of Steve Perry, Dave Meniketti, and Eric Martin too, the aforementioned Eddie Money and even Stephen Pearcy as well too here and there.

‘You Make it Easy,’ and he’s really trying a Steve Perry approach and it’s commendable, but Perry he’s not! It’s a slow to mid paced pop rocker, big choruses there too and I haven’t mentioned it before, but there’s really nice brief acoustic guitar here and also throughout the album, both David Michael-Philips and Mick Sweda on Guitars, both are good players for sure.

The album hits power ballad territory with ‘Cryin’ Turns To Rain.’ Next and it’s OK and Journey like at times but it doesn’t really grab me.

Carmice leads into the very Van Halen’esque ‘Screamin’ For More’ perhaps a runner up to ‘Hot For Teacher.’

Hear it and you’ll know what I mean!

How apt that the final track is titled ‘Fade Away.’ It drifts up and down in its tempo, but you can hear it wants to be a power ballad, but it’s almost like the players couldn’t make up there mind where they wanted to take this, as at times the guitars are aching to rock out!

So overall, a little disappointing and that’s not down to Paul Shortino, where I’ve drawn the various comparisons, as that’s one of the better points at times. The production / mix for me needs to be redone or could certainly use some help and during the verses, it’s like it was missing something, I can’t quite nail, but an OK album.

Rating: 3 out of 5

Official weblinks:
www.myspace.com/officialkingkobra

http://www.frontiers.it/

Brief News Update for Thursday June 2nd, 2011

DEEP PURPLE

SET THEIR SIGHTS ON AMERICA AND CANADA IN JUNE AFTER THEY WRAP IN-PROGRESS TOUR OF EUROPE, RUSSIA AND THE MIDDLE EAST

PIONEERING BAND TO TOUR NORTH AMERICA FOR THE FIRST TIME WITH A SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA IN EACH CITY

JUNE 3-25 - "DEEP PURPLE: THE SONGS THAT BUILT ROCK” TOUR WILL FEATURE THE BAND’S ICONIC HITS AND MORE

DEEP PURPLE are wrapping up a triumphant tour of Europe, Russia and the Middle East and are now setting their sights on a major North American tour, where they will perform for the first time here with a symphony orchestra in each city (except San Francisco).

The pioneering rock band--featuring classic members Ian Gillan (lead vocals), Roger Glover (bass) and Ian Paice (drums, percussion), rounded out by Steve Morse (guitar) and Don Airey (keyboards)--will launch “DEEP PURPLE: The Songs That Built Rock” June 3 and conclude the tour June 25, with stops in New York (two nights at the Beacon Theatre), Los Angeles (Greek Theater) and Montreal (Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, Place des Arts).

On the North American tour, fans can expect to hear the band’s trail-blazing iconic hits--including “Smoke On The Water,” “Highway Star,” “Hush” and “Space Truckin’” -- plus other favorites achieve a new dimension of sound with the added heft of a symphony orchestra. In other parts of the world, DEEP PURPLE has achieved acclaim for its live epic presentation of symphonic rock.

The group is planning on releasing a new studio album in 2012.

Their last studio album was 'Rapture of the Deep' in 2005.

Their in-progress international tour--which wraps in San Francisco June 25--has brought them to Ukraine, Greece, Israel, Belarus, Cyprus and multiple cities in Russia, where they dined at the home of President Dmitry Medvedev

Throughout its career, DEEP PURPLE has sold over 100 million albums worldwide and has incorporated classical music, blues-rock, pop and progressive rock. (Although the band’s devoted fans treasure their live album 'Concerto for Group and Orchestra,' the upcoming tour of North America will not draw from this work.)

http://www.deeppurple.com/

DEEP PURPLE - TOUR DATES

DATE - CITY - VENUE

Fri, 6/3 - Orillia, ON - Casino Rama

Sat, 6/4 - Quebec City, QC - Agora

Mon, 6/6 - Montreal, QC - Salle Wilfred-Pelletier, Place des Arts

Tue, 6/7 - Boston, MA - Citi Performing Arts Center Wang Theatre

Wed, 6/8 - Hartford, CT - Mortensen Hall at the Bushnell

Fri, 6/10 - Holmdel, NJ - PNC Bank Arts Center

Sat, 6/11 - Atlantic City, NJ - Tropicana

Sun, 6/12 - Bethel Woods, NY - Bethel Performing Arts Center

Tue, 6/14 - New York, NY - Beacon Theater

Wed, 6/15 - New York, NY - Beacon Theater

Fri, 6/17 - Detroit, MI - Fox Theater

Sat, 6/18 - Highland Park, IL - Ravinia

Sun, 6/19 - Minneapolis, MN - Orpheum

Thurs, 6/23 - Las Vegas, NV - The Pearl at the Palms Casino

Fri, 6/24 - Los Angeles, CA - Greek Theater

**Sat, 6/2 - Concord, CA - Sleep Train Amphitheatre

**Indicates a non-orchestra date.

Official band site: http://www.deeppurple.com/

Thunder get on their bikes and ride (For charity)

Latest news from the Thunder camp, as the band close in on their first big UK live date since 2009, at the 'High Voltage Festival,' in London, sees the band traveling across North America, on Harley's!

This news from the official Thunder website, that is still alive and kickin'! 

Ben, Danny, Luke and Peter - Charity Motorcycle Ride - USA July 2011 - More News!

Posted June 1st, 2011

Dear All

As reported a few weeks ago, Ben, Danny, Luke and Peter will be joining a bunch of like minded lunatics in July, on a charity motorcycle ride in Canada and the USA.

The intrepid four's efforts to date have raised just under £6000 (That's over £7,000 with Gift Aid), with all donations going to Childline in the UK, so huge thanks to all of you who have given so generously so far. If you haven't made a donation yet (we know who you are), there's still time (and even £1.00 will make a difference).

As promised, here is a bit more information, though if you listened to Ben and Danny on Planet Rock this morning you may already know it..

The ride goes from Cranbrook British Columbia on July 11th and ends up in Ketchum Idaho on July 15th, and will pass through some wonderfully named towns such as Waterton (Alberta), Whitefish (Montana), Missoula, Lolo, McCall (Idaho) and Stanley. The intrepid four will be part of group of 25 or so lunatics, including former SAS officer turned best selling author Andy McNab (Bravo Two Zero) and others.

The plan is to play music somewhere each night of the ride, and audio recordings will be sent back for broadcast on Planet Rock each morning on the Breakfast show. The audio recordings will be given away to the lovely people who donate £10 or more, and the audio plus various video clips will go to those stellar beings who donate £25 or more. I say somewhere, as it's all a bit ad hoc at the moment, and none of the musical evenings are planned, but rest assured, make music they most definitely will...

ALSO...

I'm very pleased to report that the rest of the members of Thunder and The Union have agreed to fly out to join Ben, Danny, Luke and Peter, and both bands will play at the Sun Valley Pavilion in Ketchum on July 16th. It will be Thunder's first show since Sonisphere on August 1st 2009, and the band will treat the show as a warm up for their High Voltage appearance on July 24th. There may be another.. Watch this space..

FINALLY

I've been asked to say that anyone interested in joining the ride should visit http://childlinerocks.co.uk/news_item.php?id=400

where full details can be found. You must have a full motorcycle licence and possibly a screw loose, but definitely a few bob, this is for charity after all.

That's it from me for now..

Thanks

The Thin & Non Riding One

Source: http://www.thunderonline.com/

PROGRESSIVE ROCK ICONS YES RETURN WITH FIRST STUDIO ALBUM IN TEN YEARS


THE TREVOR HORN PRODUCED FLY FROM HERE SET FOR RELEASE IN EUROPE ON JULY 1ST AND NORTH AMERICA ON JULY 12TH VIA FRONTIERS RECORDS

Debut single “We Can Fly” to be released digitally on June 13th

The most influential and ground-breaking progressive rock ‘n’ roll band in history, legendary rockers and Grammy Award winners YES, will release their first studio album in a decade, Fly From Here, on July 1st in Europe and July 12th in North America through Frontiers Records. Their long awaited 20th studio album is the follow up to 2001’s Magnification and marks the band’s return with producer, Trevor Horn, who produced the band’s chart topping album, 90125, in 1983 and also sang for YES on the Drama album in 1980. YES is Benoit David on vocals (his first studio recording with YES), Steve Howe on guitars/vocals, founder Chris Squire on bass/vocals, Geoff Downes on keyboards and Alan White on drums.
Roger Dean, creator of a number of YES’ most memorable album covers, also returns with his signature style for Fly From Here.

“At last we have some shape and dynamics within these tracks that are truer to the original idea of what a YES recording is about,” proclaims Howe.

“The new album represents the best of YES from the 70s and the 80's with a current twist,” Squire adds.
All of the songs on Fly From Here embody that classic and now iconic YES sound and style. The first single, “We Can Fly,” (to be released digitally on June 13th) is borne from a piece of music that was written prior to the Fly ... writing sessions - an idea that has now grown into an overture and 5 subsequent movements that feature the unparalleled musicianship and virtuoso talents that are synonymous with YES. From the first chord of “Fly From Here – Overture” to the last note of the album’s closer “Into The Storm,” there is no question that the unmistakable technical proficiency of YES carries on.
"It's awesome working with Trevor Horn again, he pays a lot of attention to detail. It was a great pleasure in the studio to play some incredible music with some great players,” says White.

First formed in 1968, YES’ remarkable career spans over 40 years and the band has time and again redefined the boundaries of rock music. YES has sold nearly 50 million albums worldwide and continues to stretch the boundaries of progressive art-rock with their symphonic use of sound and innovative musical styles. This summer, YES will return to the road to bring Fly From Here as well as some of their classic hits to their loyal following. European tour dates are scheduled for the fall.

Fly From Here track listing:

1. Fly From Here - Overture
2. Fly From Here - pt I - We Can Fly
3. Fly From Here - pt II - Sad Night At The Airfield
4. Fly From Here - pt III - Madman At The Screens
5. Fly From Here - pt IV - Bumpy Ride
6. Fly From Here - pt V - We Can Fly
7. The Man You Always Wanted Me To Be
8. Life On A Film Set
9. Hour Of Need
10. Solitaire
11. Into The Storm

Fly From Here will be released in 4 different configurations: cd, cd plus a bonus DVD including a documentary “Making of the Album” in digipak edition, a gatefold vinyl and a Special Box set limited edition including the cd, DVD, vinyl, t-shirt, poster, sticker and a lithograph of the cover art.
For more official YES news and information, go to http://www.yesworld.com/
The YES EPK discussing Fly From Here can be seen at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CR-DKEcDtt8


YES and Styx North American Tour 2011
Date City Venue

July 4th Camden, NJ Susquehanna Bank Center
July 5th Holmdel, NJ PNC Bank Arts Center
July 7th Canandaigua, NY CMAC Performing Arts Center
July 8th Mashantucket, CT Foxwoods Resort Casino
July 9th Gilford, NH Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion
July 11th Wantagh, NY Nikon at Jones Beach Theater
July 12th Bethel, NY Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
July 14th Alpharetta, GA Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
July 15th Orange Beach, AL Amphitheater at the Wharf
July 16th Nashville, TN Woods Amphitheater at Fontanel
July 18th Kansas City, MO Starlight Theatre
July 19th Noblesville, IN Verizon Wireless Music Center
July 20th Clarkston, MI DTE Energy Music Theater
July 22nd Thackerville, OK WinStar Casino
July 23rd Oklahoma City, OK Zoo Amphitheater
July 24th Maryland Heights, MO Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
July 26th Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre
July 28th Eagle, ID Eagle River Pavilion
July 29th Redmond, WA Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery
July 30th Goldendale, WA Maryhill Winery
August 2nd Los Angeles, CA Greek Theatre
August 3rd Mountain View, CA Shoreline Amphitheatre

Official weblinks:
http://www.yesworld.com/
http://www.frontiers.it/

News Update for Wednesday 1st June, 2011

Acoustic Saints - A very new project

  

As first mentioned here on Monday, here's a little more on the new side project 'Acoustic Saints' put together by guitarist / singer / songwriter Stan Bush, bassist Chuck Wright (Quiet Riot, House of Lords, Giuffria) and Rick Sailon (Laura Brannigan, Richard Page (Mr. Mister), Jim Messina (Kenny Loggins & Jim Messina)).

Now while both Stan and Chuck come from rocking backgrounds, don't expect big guns a blazin'!

This is after all, an acoustic project and just how far they may take this is anyone's guess?!

As of right now, it's my understanding from Stan, that's it's a fun side project, which has just one small gig lined up. Here's what Stan had to say:

"Yeah, we just got together a couple of weeks ago, so June 7th will be our
first gig.
This is a very cool thing. We're doing only great classic songs, with a few originals thrown in. 

It's myself, Chuck Wright (Bassist from Quiet Riot, House of Lords) and Rick Sailon (Violin, acoustic guitar, mandolin)."

That gig will be at:

Casa De Carlos,
22901 Ventura Blvd
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
8:00 to 11:00
No Cover - Mexican Cuisine

http://www.casadecarlos.com/

There is a website, but as of right now it's coming together slowly, but the guys do hope to have some music samples posted there soon. After all, they are talking 'original material' ahead of the show.

Let's hope there's something more for the rest of us soon!

Chuck is obviously committed first and foremost to the rejuvenated Quiet Riot, who have tour dates coming up fast, starting this Friday 3rd June in Santa Clara, CA. Check here for more details on those dates: http://www.officialquietriot.com

Chuck's own site is here: http://www.chuckwright.com/
Stan is most likely working on a new album too, but meantime Stan will be appearing all this weekend long at the annual gathering of Transformers fans –   BotCon 2011! Taking place June 2nd – 5th at the Pasadena Convention Center in beautiful Pasadena, CA.

Stan will be promoting his latest album Dream the Dream, which features the powerful “Sam’s Theme (The Touch)” and the YouTube sensation “Your Time!”

Editor's note: 'Dream the Dream' review here:

 http://chambersofrock.blogspot.com/2010/10/stan-bush-dream-dream-album-review.html

Official Stan Bush site is here: http://stanbush.com/

Meantime, the 'Acoustic Saint's' site as it is, can be found here:

http://www.wix.com/acousticsaints/as

Steve Lukather at 2011 Workshop and festival

Steve Lukather (Toto) is the newest addition to the 2011 Workshop and Festival of the Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation, along with Joe Bonamassa, Lee Ritenour, Scott Tenant and Greg Howe to name a few.

The Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation brings together the finest guitar playing and one of the most exquisite natural landscapes in the world. These two passions, music and nature, take center stage during our week-long guitar workshop and festival at the Flathead Lake Lodge in Bigfork, Montana, from August 28th till September 4th 2011.

It's a unique opportunity to participate in 6 days of workshops in one of six styles of guitar and attend nightly performances by some of the finest players of each style. Participants can choose to study Classic Rock, Blues, Jazz, Classical Guitar or a Singer-Songwriter curriculum which takes the place of last year's Acoustic workshop. Also offered is a Beginners course for people who want to learn to play guitar while in the company of some of the world's greatest players.

Check out all the (register) information at cocguitarfoundation.org!

Source: http://www.stevelukather.net

CMT CROSSROADS: THE DOOBIE BROTHERS AND LUKE BRYAN

“CMT CROSSROADS: THE DOOBIE BROTHERS AND LUKE BRYAN”
PREMIERES FRIDAY, JUNE 24 ON CMT

NASHVILLE – May 25, 2011 – Classic rockers The Doobie Brothers and country star Luke Bryan will be heading to CMT for the next installment of CMT CROSSROADS when CMT CROSSROADS: THE DOOBIE BROTHERS and LUKE BRYAN premieres Friday, June 24 at 10:00 p.m., ET/PT.

Taped before an invitation-only audience in Nashville, The Doobie Brothers and Luke Bryan will perform their hits including The Doobie Brothers’ “Black Water,” Long Train Runnin,” and “China Grove,” and Bryan’s “Rain is a Good Thing,” “Do I” “and “Country Girl (Shake It For Me).”

“We are so pleased, and fortunate to be able to share the stage with Luke Bryan on Crossroads,” says Pat Simmons of The Doobie Brothers. “We love the challenge of performing such wonderfully crafted songs with an artist like Luke, and his band. He’s one of the most exciting artists on the country music scene these days. The energy, innovation, and soulfulness of the music he writes and performs, is right up our alley. We’re dustin’ off our country chops, and we look forward to having him join in on our songs. This is going to be a great experience for all of us, and fans of both country music, and rock ‘n roll. It could only happen on Crossroads!”

“I am really excited to perform on stage with the Doobie Brothers,” says Luke Bryan. “Their music was such an iconic part of my growing up. I bet most Americans can hear a particular Doobie Brothers song and have it take them back to a certain time and place in their life…and the best thing is, they are still creating great music today!”

As durable as American steel, Northern California’s Doobie Brothers celebrate their 40th anniversary this year. Beginning with their multi-million-selling sophomore collection Toulouse Street (1972), the Doobies have recorded three multi-platinum albums, four platinum sets, and four gold records.
Their Best of the Doobies (1976) has sold 10 million copies – a rare “diamond record.”Their No. 1 singles “Black Water” (1974) and “What a Fool Believes” (1979), both gold, lead a catalog of indelible songs that include “Listen to the Music,” “Long Train Runnin’,” “Take Me In Your Arms (Rock Me),” “Takin’ It to the Streets,” “Minute By Minute,” “Real Love,” and “The Doctor.”
In 2010, original members Pat Simmons and Tom Johnston, and 30 year member and country producer/songwriter/player John McFee (Southern Pacific) marked a new chapter with the delivery of a potent album – World Gone Crazy (HOR Records), featuring a guest appearance by Country Music Hall of Famer Willie Nelson. It’s their first new album in a decade, with tracks like “Far From Home” and their country single “World Gone Crazy” marking a renaissance of the propulsive roots-based, harmony laden, guitar driven style that sold an estimated 30 million records over the course of four decades.

Luke Bryan will release his third studio album for Capitol Records Nashville on August 9, Tailgates & Tanlines. This project is the follow up to his GOLD-certified album Doin’ My Thing, which produced three back-to-back #1 singles- “Do I,” “Rain Is A Good Thing” and “Someone Else Calling You Baby.” The lead single off the forth-coming project is “Country Girl (Shake It For Me)” and is his fastest rising single to date. The song debuted at #1 in U.S. digital singles sales with 105,498 downloads its first week. Luke, who will perform and present on the CMT Music Awards on June 8, is currently nominated for two 2011 CMT Music Awards - Best Web Video of the Year for his video “It’s A Shore Thing” and as Best New Live Act, the Nationwide Insurance Award.
Fans can catch Luke on the road this summer on Tim McGraw’s “Emotional Traffic” tour.
CMT CROSSROADS is produced by Tom Forrest and Kathryn Russ. John Hamlin, Margaret Comeaux and Bill Flanagan serve as executive producers for CMT.
www.cmtpress.com
Source: http://www.doobiebros.com/

Brief News Update for Monday May 30th, 2011

Happy Memorial Day to all in the US and as in the UK on Remembrance Day, here's to the troops that have defended the USA, best they can and given their lives while doing so and also our thoughts to those families who have lost loved ones through cowardly ambushes or those lost when attacks are made on innocent civilians.

We can only hope and pray that one day, the world better can once again be a better place to live and raise our kids in.

On with the news!

Glenn Hughes joins Planet Rock to launch weekly radio series

GLENN HUGHES, the former singer and bass guitarist with Trapeze and Deep Purple, and currently the front man of the critically acclaimed rock supergroup Black Country Communion, will launch an exclusive weekly radio show on Planet Rock from Sunday June 5th at 6pm GMT.

Every week, Glenn will choose his favourite rock songs, and seminal tracks that have influenced him over the years, plus songs that continue to inspire him today. As one of the true rock’n’roll icons, Hughes will reveal controversial tales and anecdotes from his long and glittering career, during which he's played with some of the biggest and best bands and artists of all time. Get ready for stories about his experiences with Black Sabbath, Ronnie James Dio, David Coverdale, Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, Deep Purple and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, to name but a few.

"I would like to thank Planet Rock for giving me the opportunity to share with listeners the songs that have shaped my life,” says Hughes. “Every song is chosen by me, and there will rock 'n’roll stories along the away. I am a messenger..."
“Hughes continues Planet Rock’s tradition of bringing rock’s biggest names to the airwaves,” says Planet Rock’s Programme Director, Trevor White. “After a career spanning 40 years, he brings a wealth of stories from his life on the road, in the studio, his friendships with the likes of Keith Moon and Bonzo (John Bonham), the highs, the lows, and of course, the excesses. His choice of music will make the show a must listen.”
The series will run on Planet Rock on Sunday evenings at 6pm – 7pm beginning on 5th June. For further info click here – www.planetrock.com

Official artist site: http://www.glennhughes.com/

New York City Radio Station Q104.3 Presents Screening of 'Thirty Years After The Blizzard.'

Q104.3 will host a screening of Ozzy Osbourne's "Thirty Years After The Blizzard" at the P.C. Richard & Son Theater on Tuesday, May 31, hosted by Maria Milito.

Celebrating the 30th anniversary of Ozzy's groundbreaking debut album, Blizzard of Ozz, the event will feature a screening of the "Thirty Years After The Blizzard" DVD, which chronicles Ozzy's years with Randy Rhoads, including previously unseen footage of Ozzy and Randy, interviews with Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne.

The DVD also contains rare live performances and interviews!

Ozzy's home site: http://www.ozzy.com

JASON BONHAM’S LED ZEPPELIN EXPERIENCE FORCED TO POSTPONE
UPCOMING SHOWS
DUE TO ILLNESS

JASON BONHAM’S LED ZEPPELIN EXPERIENCE have postponed a handful of tour dates and are in the process of rescheduling these shows. This included the performance on Friday, May 27 at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles which has had to be rescheduled for Friday, October 14 at the Greek Theatre and the Las Vegas show (Saturday, May 28) which has now been rescheduled for Saturday, October 15 at Aliante Casino. Tickets for both postponed shows will be honored on the rescheduled nights and refunds will be available at point of purchase for those ticket holders who can not attend the re-scheduled shows. Vocalist JAMES DYLAN is unfortunately ill and unable to perform at this time.

Please stay tuned for rescheduling information about the new Sacramento and Napa Valley dates which were also postponed earlier this week. Patrons should hold onto their tickets for all postponed shows.

The band regrets this inconvenience to their fans and thanks them for their support.

Official website: www.jblze.com

 

NEW "HEAVY METAL BAY" WEBSITE IS THE ONLINE MARKET PLACE DEDICATED TO THE METAL COMMUNITY WHERE YOU CAN SELL, BUY AND AUCTION ANYTHING TO DO THE WITH METAL MUSIC IS NOW OPEN.

FOR THE NEXT MONTH, LISTING AN ITEM IS FREE!

Are there a few one-of-a-kind pieces of heavy metal pieces that are missing from your collection, and you just can’t get a decent night’s sleep until you can get your hands on them?

Is there an album you want to lay your hands on? Do you have a poster to sell? Anything, as long as its heavy metal!

Your wishes will now be granted metalheads, as HeavyMetalBay.com is open for business, and will satisfy all of your headbanging needs.

This website is a unique online market place for the heavy metal music loving community and features any product related in any way, shape, or form to heavy metal - new, used, historic, collectable, HeavyMetalBay.com is your “go-to” site! Music, videos, memorabilia, clothing, jewellery, posters, instruments, amps - all are featured.

And to celebrate the site's launch, ALL AUCTION LISTINGS FOR THE NEXT MONTH ARE FREE! Unlike other similarly-styled websites, you will not need a PayPal account to buy items on HeavyMetalBay.com. In addition to locating fantastic finds, the site will feature a concert guide to find local gigs from new and established bands. Also, you will be able to promote your own band or your own show, large or small – fees are within the budget of ordinary mortals.

HeavyMetalBay.com was founded by Denise Dale who is no stranger to metal music, she is known in the music industry as an international booking agent specializing in the heavy metal music genre. Her company, Metal Music Bookings (metalmusicbookings.com), has booked such artists as Tarja, Michael Schenker, Cinderella, Blind Guardian to name just a few.

Denise saw a need for a specialist website which brings together the metal music community. Heavy Metal Bay.com is no doubt the only trading auction site on the net that is dedicated to metal music fans, promoters, and bands worldwide.

The time is upon us metalheads, to start rummaging through your closet, basement, or garage for any metallic artifacts you’d like to turn into cash, and start putting together your wish lists. HeavyMetalBay.com is open for business!

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:

http://www.heavymetalbay.com/

Acoustic Saints - New project featuring Stan Bush and Chuck Wright

OK, not too much information on this new project under the title of 'Acoustic Saints' except that Stan Bush has just posted on MySpace about this new joint venture / project, also featuring Chuck Wright and Rick Sailon.

Here's what is on the site, which has only just appeared, so not much other than this on there right now: 

ACOUSTIC SAINTS reinterpret Classic Rock tunes with a moody atmospheric vibe infused with Viloin, Mandolin, Acoustic Guitars, Fretless Bass and

soaring vocals.

Stan Bush - Lead Vocals/ Guitar  - Emmy Award winning singer/ songwriter, best known for his song "The Touch" featured in "Transformers: The Movie" which was also released for Guitar Hero and Rock Band.

Stan has co-written with Jonathan Cain (Journey), Paul Stanley (Kiss) and Jim Valance (Bryan Adams & Aerosmith)www.stanbush.com

Chuck Wright - Bass/ Backing Vocals - Best known for his work with multi-platinum artists Quiet Riot, as well as rockers House of Lords. His reputaion has landed him along such music icons as Alice Cooper, Ted Nugent, Slash, Greg Allman, John Waite, Pat Travers and many others. Chuck has over 80 Internationally relased albums and continues touring the worlds stages.

www.chuckwright.com

Rick Sailon - Guitar/ Violin/ Mandolin/ Lead Vocals

Rick has recorded and toured with Laura Brannigan, Richard Page (Mr. Mister), Jim Messina (Loggans & Messina), Amy Sky and Marc Jordon.

He has worked on a variety of Televsion shows and movie soundtracks. He is also an "in demand" Guitar instructor who's students include the legendary John Fogerty of The Credence Clearwater Revival.

The band does have a gig lined up though, fairly low key and intimate:

June 7th @ Casa De Carlos
22901 Ventura Blvd
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
8:00 to 11:00
No Cover - Mexican Cuisine

Official site (As it is): http://www.wix.com/acousticsaints/as

News update for Sunday 29th May, 2011

REO Speedwagon's 30-Year Anniversary of Multi-Platinum #1 Breakthrough Hit Hi Infidelity

Source: PRNewswire

NEW YORK, May, 2011 -- The year 1981 marks the debut of the groundbreaking MTV Networks and, simultaneously, as MTV was hitting the airwaves, REO Speedwagon held the #1 album spot with their multi-platinum Hi Infidelity, making an impression that has also come to last decades. Now, marking its 30th Anniversary, the highest-selling rock LP of 1981 is being commemorated with HI INFIDELITY: 30th ANNIVERSARY EDITION, with special, never-before-released demos and more. The double-CD set will be released at all physical and digital retail outlets on July 19th through Epic/Legacy, a division of SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT.

Hi Infidelity was a career-changing album for REO Speedwagon, achieving a staggering number of accolades, chart positions and sales, among them:

Highest-selling rock LP of 1981.

Has sold close to 10 million copies in the US.

February 21, 1981; the album hit #1 on the Billboard 200 album chart and remained at #1 for 15 weeks straight; taking over John Lennon and Yoko Ono's "Double Fantasy," which previously held the spot for eight weeks.

Remained on Billboard 200 album chart for 101 weeks, unprecedented for an American rock band at the time.

Album certified RIAA Gold and Platinum on February 2, 1981; since been 10x Platinum certified.

Single "Keep on Loving You," certified RIAA gold on March 4th, replaced Eddie Rabbitt's "I Love a Rainy Night" at #1 on Billboard Hot 100 on March 21, 1981.

March 21st, 1981, the first week of Billboard's then new "Top Tracks" chart (now known as the Mainstream Rock Chart) boasted four songs from Hi Infidelity: "Keep on Loving You" and "Take It On the Run," which both hit the top 10; and "Don't Let Him Go"(#11) and "Tough Guys" (#25); "Out of Season," joined those four a week later "Take It On the Run" was the 9th music video ever to be played on MTV.

HI INFIDELITY: 30th ANNIVERSARY EDITION will pair the original album with a second CD of previously unreleased 'Crystal Demos' of nine of the album's 10 songs. Additionally, the album packaging will include new liner notes by lead singer Kevin Cronin, as well as original lead guitarist Gary Richrath. Cronin's essay takes the reader on a trip behind the curtain to the roots of many of the songs: "I remember writing the verses to piano, after sleepwalking into my home studio around 4:00 a.m.... A long simmering response to the bullies of my youth came in the form of 'Tough Guys'... Bruce (Hall) wrote and sang 'Someone Tonight,' which is one of the gems from the Crystal Demos... 'I wish You Were There' [was] a little gospel thing that I had written in the house where I grew up in suburban Chicago."

Originally formed in Champaign, Illinois, REO Speedwagon is still led today by keyboardist Neal Doughty (founding member since 1967), Kevin Cronin (who has fronted the band since 1972 on lead vocals and guitar), and bassist Bruce Hall (who joined in 1977) along with lead guitarist Dave Amato (member since 1989) and drummer Bryan Hitt (since 1990). Together, REO continues to define the essence of two enduring genres, arena rock on the performance side, and classic rock on the audio and video side. Summer tour dates begin at Los Angeles' Greek Theatre on June 4th and take the band through more than 40 shows where they'll showcase the best of Hi Infidelity with the live performances that audiences have grown to love over the last three decades and continue to sell out time and time again.

As Cronin writes, "Hi Infidelity was a major life changer for all of us. On our eleventh album, we went from being the perennial Midwestern underdog, to at last hitting the global big time. Suddenly, the world was listening, and watching... But the truth is, it all still boiled down to the music, the songs, some inspired performances, and a great deal of good fortune. We were a tight knit, dedicated group of individuals, with a dream, a purpose, and no doubt that we would pull it all off."

HI INFIDELITY: 30th ANNIVERSARY EDITION by REO SPEEDWAGON (Epic/Legacy 88697 69579 2, originally issued November 1980, as Epic 36844)

Disc One: Selections: 1. Don't Let Him Go 2. Keep On Loving You 3. Follow My Heart 4. In Your Letter 5. Take It On The Run 6. Tough Guys 7. Out Of Season 8. Shakin' It Loose 9. Someone Tonight 10. I Wish You Were There.

Disc Two: The Crystal Demos Selections: 1. Someone Tonight 2. Tough Guys 3. In Your Letter 4. Follow My Heart 5. Take It On The Run 6. Don't Let Him Go 7. Keep On Loving You 8. Shakin' It Loose (Instrumental) 9. I Wish You Were There. (All tracks previously unreleased.).

"The heavens, our emotions, the music business, and REO fans all over the world, were all perfectly aligned. There was a common sense of purpose, of longing and loss, within the band members' collective psyche, that erupted with a burst of creativity, and resulted in the music of Hi Infidelity." from the liner notes written by Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon.

"Kevin and I go way back, having met right about the time I joined Styx. There was probably no one more keenly aware of their chart positions than we were for all those weeks back in 1981. Most exciting days indeed!" Tommy Shaw of Styx

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

Europe to release multiple live material, plus photo's

It seems as well as the planned, forthcoming Europe release of 'Balls and Banners' live DVD, from the bands last UK tour, there will also be a 'Live Look At Eden' Photo book, DVD and CD set released.

Not quite sure where 'Live Look at Eden' was filmed, but it's quite possible it's simply the 'Ball's and Banners' release in a special deluxe edition, with a photo book. Since I can't read German and translator sites often have difficulty with some wording, the best I can do, is share the link!

http://www.amazon.de/Europe-live-Limited-Balls-Banners/dp/394000491X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1300397138&sr=8-1

As of right now, it seems it's only available in their home country of Sweden.

DENIS O’REGAN, EUROPE “EUROPE LIVE LOOK AT EDEN” + DVD live + CD live (LIMITED and NORMAL edition) - Release Date:  AUGUST 2011

Then we have the 'Balls and Banners' release, where a little more information is available, including full tracklisting.

EUROPE LIVE “BALLS ‘N’ BANNERS” DVD + CD LIVE (NORMAL and BLUE-RAY) Release date: JUNE 15, 2011

http://www.bengans.se/Product.aspx?skivkod=889600&section=music

These release dates - I believe - are for Sweden only as of now, maybe Germany and the rest of Europe, but the info on Europe guitarist John Norum's site has appeared ahead of being posted on the Europe site.

Here's the tracklisting for the 'Balls and Banners' DVD that includes the band's tribute to Gary Moore (RIP), where they feature 'The Loner,' a track that originally appeared on the Cozy Powell (RIP) 'Over the Top' album, where Gary Moore guested. There's also a live CD too, although how many tracks that will contain, is yet to be confirmed:

Last Look At Eden

The Beast

Rock the Night

Scream of Anger

No Stone Unturned

Carrie

Getaway Plan

Guitar Feature - Tribute To Gary Moore / The Loner

Seventh Sign

New Love In Town

Love Is Not the Enemy

More Than Meets the Eye

Drum Feature - William Tell

Overture

Always the Pretenders

Start From the Dark

Superstitious

Doghouse

The Final Countdown

Official Sites:

http://www.johnnorum.se

http://www.europetheband.com

Ted Nugent offers two free downloads, new songs

Ted Nugent is kicking off his latest tour, under the title of 'I Still Believe,' the title of the track he's launching as his first new music since last album 'Love Grenade.'

'I Still Believe' is available as a free download to fans of 'The Nuge' who sign up for his newsletter.

As an added bonus, he's now added another track 'I Love My BBQ,' as well.

Yes, sounds very corny to me too, but then Ted is renowned for his humour, right?!

The Motor City Madman is busy gearing up for the summer and his 'I Still Believe' tour. Before he hits the road, he wanted to show appreciation to all NUGE Letter subscribers by offering a FREE MP3 download of his latest and greatest, “I Love My BBQ.”

If you are currently a NUGE Letter subscriber, you can expect to receive a mailing with a link to your free download on Friday, May 20.

Ted Nugent never stops! As he once said, "I don't just enjoy making music and I don't just like touring. I literally crave it." Stay on top of all Ted's cravings and sign up for the mailing list. You'll be kept up-to-date on Ted's maneuvers and www.TedNugent.com!

To show our appreciation, we are giving away two FREE MP3s: “I Still Believe!” and “I Love my BBQ” to everyone who signs up for the NUGE Letter so what are waiting for?! Sign up today!

Further details here:

http://www.tednugent.com/mailingList/

35th Anniversary Deluxe Edition of Frampton Comes Alive! Exclusively on iTunes!To commemorate the 35th Anniversary of Peter Frampton's historic release, 'Frampton Comes Alive!,' Universal Music Enterprises will be making a limited edition offer exclusively through http://www.PeterFrampton.com in June.
The offer will feature a unique autographed scrapbook containing rare photos and personal reflections from Peter. The scrapbook will be accompanied by 'Frampton Comes Alive! Deluxe Edition,' 'Frampton Comes Alive II Special Edition' and a vintage Frampton t-shirt. Fans who purchase the album starting on June 28 via iTunes will receive an interactive iTunes LP version of the scrapbook and original Deluxe Edition liners and photos, along with an exclusive cover version of “Do You Feel Like We Do” by Warren Haynes!
Details through Peter Frampton's site:
http://frampton.com