What a terrible day, no, it's not the new job ....
I was driving into work this morning and when I pulled into the car park at work, I got a call from Rhonda's niece - Who's watching our kids while the school is closed for summer. - and she says 'Can you come home? Aunt Rhonda's been involved in a car crash ...!'
The thoughts instantly rushing through my head are crazy, is she ok? Where is she ...?
As it turns out, she is OK, but she's been in like shock all day, but nothing broken, not even a bruise, no whiplash - Which I thought would be a given. - ...., nothing!
Phew!
The car on the other hand, it seems may well be considered by the assessors, as not repairable ...., but cars can be replaced, Rhonda cannot ...
She hit a tree, as she swerved to avoid hitting the car in front and spun out, hitting a tree on the drivers side, folding in both driver and rear passenger door. It looks bad ...
Anyway, the main thing is, Rhonda is OK, still feels kind of funky from the whole instance this morning.
Thankful to the big guy upstairs, for keeping her safe.
So, here's some news updates for you.
Cheers, Al
Tributes continue to be announced for Jon Lord
As many musicians realise the pain they feel, from the tragic loss of Jon Lord in the world of music, the tributes continue to pour in ..., perhaps the one that many people were waiting for was the first one here ....
Ritchie Blackmore (Deep Purple, Rainbow, Blackmore's Night)
“Jon was not only a great musician, he was my favourite dinner companion. We knew he was sick but the word was that he was recovering and doing much better. Without Jon there would be no Deep Purple. He lives on in our hearts and memories.”
Over at Classic Rock Magazine, they have spoken with Deep Purple's Ian Gillan and Roger Glover and they said this:
Ian Gillan:
“He was just an amazing character – the godfather of Deep Purple. We all looked up to him with tremendous admiration.
“If there was such a thing as a typical English gentleman in rock music, it was Jon Lord. We’ve all been touched by him one way or another. I could speak for hours about what he’s given us. We shall carry his memory forward, and his music.”
“If there was such a thing as a typical English gentleman in rock music, it was Jon Lord. We’ve all been touched by him one way or another. I could speak for hours about what he’s given us. We shall carry his memory forward, and his music.”
Bassist Roger Glover adds: “It’s unthinkable that Jon is gone. A great sadness and sense of loss hangs over me. Not only has the music world lost a fantastic musician, but a gentleman of the finest order. He was a giant in my life – a great friend, a fellow traveller, a teacher not only of music, but of life. I am devastated at his passing.”
Black Sabbath icon Tony Iommi, who’s fighting cancer himself and recently worked with Lord, says: “Jon was not only a magnificent keyboard player and musician, but a wonderful human being. I’m honoured to have had the opportunity to play with him. We’ve lost a true legend – but his music will live on.”
Bill Ward (Black Sabbath):
My wife and I wish to respectfully send out condolences to the Lord family. News of the recent passing of Jon Lord has been met with sadness in our house. Reflecting upon his keyboard sounds, I must endorse how much he brought in originality and vision to the defining edge of Hard Rock. He is well-proven as a part of Rock’s historical journey and will not be forgotten.
Thank you, Jon Lord. Rest in peace.
–Bill Ward
Thank you, Jon Lord. Rest in peace.
–Bill Ward
The Kinks:
"RIP Jon Lord. A fantastic pianist and composer. With The Kinks, he played keyboards on You Really Got Me. Legend."
Former Yes keyboard player Rick Wakeman was a friend and said he was "a great fan".
"We were going to write and record an album before he become ill," he said. "His contribution to music and to classic rock was immeasurable and I will miss him terribly."
Even Twisted Sister's Dee Snider tweeted: "What an amazing musician and a true gentleman. We lost a great one. RIP."
We will without doubt miss you Jon Lord, you were seriously one very special individual.
Such talent ...
RIP Jon.
Iron Maiden's Steve Harris to release 'British Lion' solo album
EMI Music are proud to announce the release of Iron Maiden founder Steve Harris’ debut solo/side project album. Entitled ‘British Lion’ and comprising ten songs that Steve and his collaborators have been working on for the past few years between Iron Maiden tours and releases, it is an album that will surprise and delight music fans the world over.
With a decidedly heavy rock-vibe this roaring debut paints with a full palette of sounds; brooding, melancholic, righteously indignant and exuberantly heavy. With Kevin Shirley at the mixing helm – whose credits include Iron Maiden as well as Led Zeppelin, Journey and Rush among many others – this is an album to sink your teeth into.
From the growling riffage of opening salvo This Is My God to the heavy forlorn balladry of follow-up Lost Worlds which showcases Richard Taylor’s soaring vocals, it’s clear that ‘British Lion’ is an altogether different beast from Maiden.
Karma Killer, with its dirge-like muscularity, and Us Against The World, with its massive chorus, demonstrates just how far ‘British Lion’ has flexed Steve Harris’ considerable musical muscle. Dovetailed with guitarist David Hawkins’ positively gargantuan lyrical guitar melodies, it’s a mere hors d'oeuvre ahead of the epic, riffing-feast of The Chosen Ones, with its swaggering bravado.
A World Without Heaven, at a breathtaking seven minutes and infused with progressive elements without ever teetering into self-indulgence illustrates perfectly these songsmiths’ colossal abilities to create a mood and stay there. Supercharged by Steve Harris’ inimitable style, there’s an un-cynical vibe here that’s as refreshing as it is out of place in today’s all-too-categorised music industry.
And as far as the name ‘British Lion’; “I’ve always been proud to be British,” explains Steve, “I don’t see any reason why I shouldn’t be. It’s a massive part of being me. It’s not like I’m flag-waving or trying to preach, this is not a political statement at all. It’s like supporting your football team, where you come from. I just think it lends itself to some really strong imagery too, and to me it fits in with the sound.”
With Iron Maiden, Steve Harris has become one of the most recognised and successful ambassadors for British music on the world stage. Having released 15 studio albums, sold over 85 million records worldwide and played more than two thousand gigs in 58 countries in the band’s thirty-five year career, his appeal is truly global.
And now with ‘British Lion’, Steve steps out from Iron Maiden’s illustrious shadow to present a different side of his musical visions.
The tracklisting for ‘British Lion’ is as follows:
1.This Is My God
2.Lost Worlds
3.Karma Killer
4.Us Against The World
5.The Chosen Ones
6.A World Without Heaven
7.Judas
8.Eyes Of The Young
9.These Are The Hands
10.The Lesson
Official site:
http://www.steveharrisbritishlion.com/
SEBASTIAN BACH TO GO 'KICKING AND SCREAMING' ON AXS TV
Live concert event to be televised nationally August 2nd
Multi-platinum rocker Sebastian Bach will celebrate KICKING AND SCREAMING, his latest solo album which debuted at #73 on the Billboard Top 200 Album chart, with a special live television event exclusively on AXS TV. Currently touring the world, Bach's "Sebastian Bach: Kicking & Screaming & Touring" will broadcast LIVE from Club Nokia in Los Angeles on Thursday, August 2 showcasing Bach's " balls out gang of mountainous hooks and titanic grooves" (Outburn) from his latest offering.
"Bach's voice is in particularly fine form...the album is pure rock aggression," Revolver praised of Bach's solo album.
The singer/songwriter's fan base extends beyond the 20 million-plus records sold worldwide as he expanded his career over the past decade to actor/entertainer. Highlights for this multi-faceted performer consist of multiple television appearances including a 5-season recurring role on the CW's hit series "Gilmore Girls", two turns on Broadway, with starring roles in "Jekyll & Hyde" and "The Rocky Horror Picture Show;" and "The Jesus Chris Superstar" national tour.
Tickets are available at: http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/2C0048DDD2E65225
Sebastian Bach: Kicking & Screaming & Touring
LIVE broadcast exclusively on AXS TV.
Thursday, August 2 at 10pm PT / 1am ET
Fans can share the experience of on Twitter www.twitter.com/AXSTVConcerts and Facebook www.facebook.com/AXSTVConcerts.
NEW JULY RELEASES ON THE WAY FROM
ROCK CANDY RECORDS
ROCK CANDY RECORDS
FASTWAY 'S/T' + 7 BONUS TRACKS
JOHNNY VAN ZANT BAND 'ROUND TWO'
JOHNNY VAN ZANT BAND 'THE LAST OF THE WILD ONES'
PARIS 'S/T'
LIONHEART 'HOT TONIGHT'
Five brand new releases from Rock Candy Records available right now.
Great titles with all the usual Rock Candy trimmings: 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, bonus tracks, weighty essay's about the making of the album, full artist involvement, new interviews, enhanced artwork and additional photos spread out over large full colour booklets.
Great titles with all the usual Rock Candy trimmings: 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, bonus tracks, weighty essay's about the making of the album, full artist involvement, new interviews, enhanced artwork and additional photos spread out over large full colour booklets.
See below for full details about each release.
Available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com
£11.99 each, inclusive of postage to anywhere in the world ... or beyond!
Just go to the store page to order. Hurry, offer ends July 30th 2012..
Just go to the store page to order. Hurry, offer ends July 30th 2012..
JOHNNY VAN ZANT BAND 'ROUND TWO'
CANDY138
CANDY138
‘ROUND TWO’, the Johnny Van Zant’s band second album, was originally released in 1982 and produced by Lynyrd Skynyrd’s live soundman Kevin Elson. The sound and material takes its cue from the great southern rock records of the 70s, turbo-charged with a solid dose of contemporary melody, bringing to mind the best work of .38 Special.
Of course, Johnny’s vocals are immediately recognisable and massively impressive but a doff of the cap must be reserved for the guitar work of Erik Leif Lundgren and Robbie Gay, two men intent on delivering fire-cracker riffs and stinging twin lead guitar. Also features contributions from Journey’s Steve Perry and Jonathan Cain.
TRACK LISTING:
1. (WHO’S) RIGHT OR WRONG 2. STANDING IN THE FALLING RAIN 3. YESTERDAY’S GONE 4. LET THERE BE MUSIC 5. KEEP OUR LOVE ALIVE 6. NIGHT TIME LADY 7. DRIVE MY CAR 8. SHOTDOWN 9. COLD HEARTED WOMAN 10. PLAY MY MUSIC
FASTWAY 'S/T'
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CANDY129
ORIGINALLY FORMED by guitarist Fast Eddie Clarke fresh from Motorhead with drummer Jerry Shirley (Humble Pie) and - then unknown - Irish vocalist David King. Fastway fused traditional British hard rock (Think Led Zeppelin, Humble Pie, the Who) with the energy and enthusiasm of the NWOBHM.
Issued in 1983 and produced by veteran studio wizard Eddie Kramer (Zeppelin, Hendrix, Kiss) the album cut an impressive form in a world obsessed with glam rock and thrash metal. In America the record found an enthusiastic home, helping to propel it into the Billboard top 30 charts attaining gold status.
Features the singles ‘Say What You Will’, together with ‘Easy Livin’, and ‘All I Need Is Your Love’.
TRACK LISTING:
1. EASY LIVIN’ 2. FEEL ME, TOUCH ME (DO ANYTHING YOU WANT) 3. ALL I NEED IS YOUR LOVE 4. ANOTHER DAY 5. HEFT! 6. WE BECOME ONE 7. GIVE IT ALL YOU GOT 8. SAY WHAT YOU WILL 9. YOU GOT ME RUNNIN’ 10. GIVE IT SOME ACTION BONUS TRACKS: 11. CRAZY DREAM 12. BACK IN THE GAME 13. FAR FAR FROM HOME PLUS BBC SESSION: 14. WE BECOME ONE 15. EASY LIVIN’ 16. GIVE IT ALL YOU GOT 17. YOU GOT ME RUNNIN’
Coming next month ...
Angel 'S/T'
Angel 'Helluva Band'
Angel 'On Earth As It Is In Heaven'
Available on CD and...
Strictly limited 500 edition of 180 Gram Virgin White Vinyl
Available August 2012
JOHNNY VAN ZANT BAND 'THE LAST OF THE WILD ONES' CANDY139
JOHNNY VAN ZANT BAND 'THE LAST OF THE WILD ONES' CANDY139
‘LAST OF The Wild Ones’, originally issued in 1982, was the JVZ Band’s third studio album and finds the them returning to a more authentic sound, a style in keeping with their highly praised debut album, paying less heed to commerciality and more attention to traditional 70s style southern rock. It also marked the return of veteran producer Al Kooper, a man who not only discovered, signed and produced Skynyrd but also sat behind the recording desk of the debut JVZ Band album.
Sharper, more concise and rougher around the edges than their second album, ‘Last Of The Wild Ones’ takes no prisoners, leaping out of the speakers all guns blazing. With brother Donnie (Van Zant - .38 Special) co-writing half the album, this is truly a serious statement of intent.
TRACK LISTING:
1. GOOD GIRLS TURNING BAD 2. IT’S YOU 3. LAST OF THE WILD ONES 4. STILL HOLD ON 5. CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT YOUR LOVE 6. DANGER ZONE 7. TOGETHER FOREVER 8. INSIDE LOOKING OUT 9. THE ONE AND ONLY
PARIS 'S/T'
CANDY151
CANDY151
IN MANY respects Paris, the band, can be labelled as a mini supergroup. Formed by ex Fleetwood Mac guitarist Bob Welch, with former Jethro Tull bassist Glenn Cornick and drummer Thom Mooney from the Nazz, they were signed to Capitol records and put into the studio with seasoned producer/engineer Jimmy Robinson (Detective).
The recording took nearly a year but the results were spectacular. Unashamedly reminiscent of Led Zeppelin, the band’s style focussed on powerful, crunchy riffs, laced with a funky undertow.
But it wasn’t all about the music as Bob Welch’s bizarre, some might say, spooky lyrics provided yet another murky depth to the package. With references to both religion and metaphysical inspiration, the songs make for captivating listening. Sadly Bob Welch recently took his own life but the Paris album remains one of his most accomplished and impressive works.
TRACK LISTING:
1. RELIGION 2. BLACK BOOK 3. STARCAGE 4. BEAUTIFUL YOUTH 5. NAZARENE 6. NARROW GATE (La Porte Etroite) 7. SOLITAIRE 8. BREATHLESS 9. ROCK OF AGES 10. RED RAIN
LIONHEART 'HOT TONIGHT'
CANDY151
CANDY151
REGARDED AS something of a mini-supergroup at the time, featuring ex Iron Maiden guitarist Dennis Stratton and former Liar guitarist (and future Michael Schenker Group member) Steve Mann, Lionheart burst on to the scene in a flash of excitement, and were snapped up by industry powerhouse CBS Records.
Recorded in Los Angeles and produced by Kevin Beamish (REO Speedwagon, Jefferson Starship), ‘Hot Tonight’ is a premiere slice of melodic hard rock from a band keen to promote catchy hooks and a superior glossy sound to rival the best of the biggest selling American AOR bands. Originally issued in 1985, it was an album instantly embraced by fans and critics alike, offering up a brace of superlative tracks to rival the best work of Journey and Styx.
TRACK LISTING:
1. WAIT FOR THE NIGHT 2. HOT TONIGHT 3. DIE FOR LOVE 4. TOWERS OF SILVER 5. DON’T LOOK BACK IN ANGER 6. NIGHTMARE 7. LIVING IN A DREAM 8. ANOTHER CRAZY DREAM 9. DANGEROUS GAME
Official website:
http://www.rockcandyrecords.com/
Shinedown - New Video for "Enemies"
Check out the brand new video for “Enemies” from SHINEDOWN.
Shinedown - Enemies [Official Music Video]
Directed By: Darren Doane
Shinedown’s new album AMARYLLIS was released earlier this year
- Upon its release, the album made a #1 chart debut on Billboard’s “Rock Albums” chart, and a #4 debut on the Billboard 200
- Shinedown will headline the third annual Rockstar Energy Drink UPROAR Festival, kicking off this August
“AMARYLLIS” sees Shinedown joining forces once more with multiple Grammy Award -winning producer Rob Cavallo (Kid Rock, Green Day), who previously collaborated with the band on the record-breaking “THE SOUND OF MADNESS.” Recorded at Cavallo’s Lightning Sound studios outside of Los Angeles and a pair of Hollywood landmarks, Ocean Way Recording and Capitol Studios, the album was named among “This Year’s Best Bets” by Billboard, which noted the inventive addition of synths, a 27-piece orchestra, and a 10-piece horn section to the band’s powerful hard rock.
“THE SOUND OF MADNESS” (2008) proved Shinedown’s mainstream breakthrough, debuting at #8 on the Billboard 200 before spending 120 consecutive weeks on the chart.
The album made rock music history, with each of its six singles reaching #1 on the airplay rankings. Among them are such hits as “Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay Boom-Lay Boom),” “Devour,” “Sound of Madness,” “The Crow and The Butterfly,” the gold certified “If You Only Knew,” and the double-platinum certified crossover smash, “Second Chance" – all of which rose to the top of the airplay charts, marking an astonishing streak of rock radio classics.
The album made rock music history, with each of its six singles reaching #1 on the airplay rankings. Among them are such hits as “Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay Boom-Lay Boom),” “Devour,” “Sound of Madness,” “The Crow and The Butterfly,” the gold certified “If You Only Knew,” and the double-platinum certified crossover smash, “Second Chance" – all of which rose to the top of the airplay charts, marking an astonishing streak of rock radio classics.
TYGERS OF PAN TANG -TO RELEASE 'AMBUSH' ALBUM OUT SEPTEMBER 24
The Tygers of Pan Tang, the rockers from the north east of England, are due to release a new album in the Autumn.
"Ambush" features 11 tracks of handsomely crafted melodic rock!
Recorded and produced by Chris Tsangarides who produced the band's historic "Wild Cat" and "Spellbound" albums in 1980 and 1981.
A statement from the band's website said the following:
The Artwork for 'Ambush' was something that we thought long and hard about as we wanted to keep with the early album cover themes. Rodney Matthews had always been in our minds as the Crazy Nights album cover has long held a special place in Tygers fans hearts so we contacted him and he agreed to design 'Ambush' for us.
Rodney supplied two options and we chose one that we thought would sit against the first three albums perfectly.
The Artwork for 'Ambush' was something that we thought long and hard about as we wanted to keep with the early album cover themes. Rodney Matthews had always been in our minds as the Crazy Nights album cover has long held a special place in Tygers fans hearts so we contacted him and he agreed to design 'Ambush' for us.
Rodney supplied two options and we chose one that we thought would sit against the first three albums perfectly.
To say we were blown away with the work is an understatement and we hope you like it too. Below is actual original artwork signed by the man himself, this is the first time we have released this for viewing.
Mark Knopfler Rejoins Bob Dylan Tour
It's the news North American fans have been waiting for.
After a highly successful run of dates in Europe last year, Mark Knopfler will be going back on the road with the legendary Bob Dylan for a string of US and Canadian shows.
www.MarkKnopfler.com is pleased to offer it's members the chance at some of the best seats in the house before they're available anywhere else.
The first batch of presales begin this Friday, July 20, with more to come in the weeks ahead.
The first batch of presales begin this Friday, July 20, with more to come in the weeks ahead.
As with all our ticket presales, you'll need to be a member of MarkKnopfler.com and sign in to participate.
It's easy to join, and doesn't cost a thing, so sign up today at:
Mark Knopfler On Tour With Bob Dylan
Show Details:
October 05 - Winnipeg, MN
MTS Centre
October 06 - Regina, SK
Brandt Centre
Brandt Centre
October 08 - Saskatoon, SK
Credit Union Centre
Credit Union Centre
October 09 - Edmonton, AB
Rexall
Rexall
October 10 - Calgary, AB
Scotiabank Saddledome
Scotiabank Saddledome
October 12 - Vancouver, BC
Rogers Arena
Rogers Arena
October 13 - Seattle, WA
Key Arena
Key Arena
October 15 - Portland, OR
Rose Garden Arena
Rose Garden Arena
October 17 - San Francisco, CA
Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
October 18 - San Francisco, CA
Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
October 19 - Berkeley, CA
Greek Theatre
Greek Theatre
October 20 - Sacramento, CA
Power Balance Pavilion
Power Balance Pavilion
October 22 - Santa Barbara, CA
Santa Barbara County Bowl
Santa Barbara County Bowl
October 24 - San Diego, CA
Valley View Casino Center
Valley View Casino Center
October 26 - Los Angeles, CA
Hollywood Bowl
Hollywood Bowl
October 29 - Broomfield, CO
1st Bank Center
1st Bank Center
October 30 - Broomfield, CO
1st Bank Center
November 1 - Grand Prairie, TX
Verizon Theatre
1st Bank Center
November 1 - Grand Prairie, TX
Verizon Theatre
November 2 - Tulsa, OK
BOK Center
November 3 - Omaha, NE
CenturyLink Center
November 5 - Madison, WI
Alliant Energy Center
BOK Center
November 3 - Omaha, NE
CenturyLink Center
November 5 - Madison, WI
Alliant Energy Center
November 7 - St. Paul, MN
Xcel Energy Center
Xcel Energy Center
November 8 - Milwaukee, WI
BMO Harris Bradley Center
BMO Harris Bradley Center
November 9 - Chicago, IL
United Center
United Center
November 12 - Grand Rapids, MI
Van Andel Arena
Van Andel Arena
November 13 - Detroit, MI
Palace of Auburn Hills
November 14 - Toronto, ON
Air Canada Centre
November 16 - Montreal, QC
Bell Centre
Palace of Auburn Hills
November 14 - Toronto, ON
Air Canada Centre
November 16 - Montreal, QC
Bell Centre
November 18 - Boston, MA
TD Banknorth Garden
TD Banknorth Garden
November 19 - Philadelphia, PA
Wells Fargo Center
Wells Fargo Center
November 20 - Washington, DC
Verizon Center
November 21 - Brooklyn, NY
Barclay's Center
Verizon Center
November 21 - Brooklyn, NY
Barclay's Center
Official website:
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