News Update for Thursday August 2nd, 2012

ELO'S Jeff Lynne returns in October with two albums

Jeff Lynne returns in October with two albums on Frontiers records: The solo album "Long Wave" and the newly recorded "Mr. Blue Sky – The Very Best of Electric Light Orchestra" 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

Jeff Lynne photo credit: Martyn Atkins

 “It all comes down to what you truly love doing, and what I love doing is overdubbing and making new sounds out of things that are sometimes quite ordinary on their own, but when you put them together, they make something new--or something that sounds new. Just discovering things like that musically is a pleasure.”  -- JEFF LYNNE, 2012

 JEFF LYNNE, one of rock’s most iconic figures, is returning to make some new waves and shed a little electric light.

 The creative force of ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA and the singularly accomplished singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer will release two albums on October 5th in G.A.S, October 8th in the UK and Rest of Europe, October 9th in North America via Frontiers Records: the solo disc LONG WAVE, a heartfelt and vivid tribute to some of the very songs that originally inspired him, and MR. BLUE SKY – THE VERY BEST OF ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA.

For the latter album, the British artist has artfully revisited and re-recorded--at his home studio in Los Angeles-- the greatest hits of Electric Light Orchestra, actually improving on some of the most classic and beloved recordings ever.

 The release of LONG WAVE and MR. BLUE SKY – THE VERY BEST OF ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA mark the 40th anniversary of ELO. LYNNE’s legacy will further be celebrated with releases in 2013 including ELO Live! plus expanded reissues of the ELO’s 2001 album Zoom and LYNNE’s first solo album in 1990, Armchair Theater.

For up to date info on all things JEFF LYNNE and ELO, go here: www.elo.biz

 LONG WAVE powerfully celebrates the music of a time when LYNNE’s lifelong passion for music began, evoking an era back when old standards were just giving way to rock & roll. He somehow makes pre-rock standards like “Bewitched, Bothered And Bewildered,” “Smile” and “Love Is A Many Splendored Thing” -- along with a few of his favorite gems from the Sixties such as the first single “Mercy, Mercy,” “Let It Rock” and “So Sad” -- his own with these loving versions. LYNNE’s deeply felt and musically brilliant one-man-band takes add up to an inspired love letter to music itself -- and an exquisite reflection of the way songs grace and change our lives.

 “I call this new album Long Wave because all of the songs I sing on it are the ones heard on long wave radio when I was a kid growing up in Birmingham, England,” LYNNE explains. “These songs take me back to that feeling of freedom in those days and summon up the feeling of first hearing those powerful waves of music coming in on my old crystal set. My dad also had the radio on all the time, so some of these songs have been stuck in my head for 50 years. You can only imagine how great it felt to finally get them out of my head after all these years.”

 MR. BLUE SKY – THE VERY BEST OF ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA is a powerful testament to LYNNE’s enduring artistry and his singular desire to get things right once and for all. Featuring such classics as “Evil Woman, “Don’t Bring Me Down,” “Livin’ Thing” and “Mr, Blue Sky,” the result is, in effect, a kind of showdown between JEFF LYNNE today and his extremely illustrious past, and thanks to improved technology and recording artistry, LYNNE somehow comes out on top again. It’s a fresh chance to hear these extraordinary songs sounding sharper and clearer than the old versions.

 “There was a big reason I wanted to re-record these ELO songs,” says LYNNE. "Ever since and have a completely new try at them. I’m not saying the old versions aren’t good; I like them very much. We were doing our best, but experience and technology also play a big a big part, and these new ones sound much more solid and tight.”

 The album includes a never-before-heard bonus track, “The Point Of No Return," “When I listen to the old versions they don’t sound the way I thought they did when I first wrote and recorded them. I wanted to use the experience I’ve gained producing records," and a very special version of “10538 Overture” that’s a nod to ELO’s 40th anniversary.

 The songs that JEFF LYNNE wrote and sang--and the recordings that he so expertly arranged and produced for ELO -- have endured beautifully and are perhaps even more beloved today than they were back in the Seventies and Eighties. By any standard whatsoever, ELO is one of the most remarkable success stories in rock history. Consider just the facts: ELO has sold over 50 million records worldwide, and continues to be a remarkably popular catalog. Between 1972 and 1986, LYNNE wrote and produced 26 Top Forty hits in the United Kingdom, and 20 Top Forty hits in the United States, including 20 Top Twenty smashes in the UK and 15 Top Twenty smashes in the U.S. Even more remarkably, the ELO catalog continues to have tremendous impact, as demonstrated powerfully when the compilation All Over The World: The Very Best of Electric Light Orchestra was released in 2005 and became a Top Ten album in a number of international markets including England.

 Outside of the success of ELO, LYNNE has led a remarkable career that has found him taking the lessons learned leading ELO and using them to help produce and collaborate with many of the greatest musical artists of all time, including a number of LYNNE's all-time heroes including Roy Orbison, Del Shannon, George Harrison, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and remarkably, even the Beatles themselves, as well as contemporaries like Tom Petty and Joe Walsh, whose new album Analog Man LYNNE recently helped produce. Together with Harrison, Orbison, Petty and Bob Dylan, LYNNE was, of course, a member of the Grammy award-winning Traveling Wilburys --a super group like no other.

 “I’ve been in love with music since I was probably just five years old,” says LYNNE. "I was made for music then -- and I still am today.”

 Here are the track Listings for LONG WAVE and MR. BLUE SKY – THE VERY BEST OF ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA: 

LONG WAVE

 1. She
 2. If I Loved You
 3. So Sad
 4. Mercy, Mercy
 5. Running Scared
 6. Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered
 7. Smile
 8. At Last
 9. Love Is A Many Splendored Thing
 10. Let It Rock
 11. Beyond The Sea



MR. BLUE SKY – THE VERY BEST OF ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA:

 1. Mr. Blue Sky
 2. Evil Woman
 3. Strange Magic
 4. Don’t Bring Me Down
 5. Turn To Stone
 6. Showdown
 7. Telephone Line
 8. Livin’ Thing
 9. Do Ya
 10. Can’t Get It Out Of My Head
 11. 10538 Overture
 12. The Point Of No Return

Weblink:
http://www.frontiers.it

Triumph to appear on 'Rockline.'


Canadian rock legends TRIUMPH will guest on the nationally syndicated radio show “Rockline” with host Bob Coburn on Wednesday, August 29th at 8:30 p.m. PT / 11:30 p.m. ET.

The band are on the verge of releasing new, previously unreleased material in a CD / DVD package, recorded at their appearance in 2008, at the Sweden Rock Festival.
'Live in Sweden' will be released toward the end of August.
 

Fans are encouraged to speak with TRIUMPH by calling 1-800-344-ROCK (7625).

The show will be streamed on the “Rockline” web site for two weeks beginning the afternoon after the live broadcast.

For more information, visit:

www.RocklineRadio.com.

Official band website:
http://www.triumphmusic.com/

Peter Frampton involved in car crash

National press reports have shared that classic 70's singer / songwriter Peter Frampton, the man behind the multi million selling 'Frampton Comes Alive,' was recently involved in a car crash in California.

He's claiming that he believes the woman that crashed into him, was texting at the time and that the accident has caused him a whiplash injury.

Frampton posted on Twitter earlier this week: “Texting woman driver just ran into back of me while I was stationary in traffic 101 freeway. Can u say whiplash? People put the phones down!”
He later added: “Back and neck not good. Going to ER after my flight.”

Some links to stories elsewhere:

http://www.classicrockmagazine.com/news/frampton-injured-in-car-crash/

http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/08/01/tagblogsfindlawcom2012-celebrityjustice-idUS20103869020120801

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/peter-frampton-hurt-southern-california-car-accident-blames-texting-woman-driver-article-1.1126615?localLinksEnabled=false

Peter Frampton is due to kick off a US tour tomorrow, Friday 3rd August at the Rockwoods Jamfest, Otsego, MN.

Official website:

http://www.frampton.com

Roger Hodgson, Legendary Voice of Supertramp, Returns with his Breakfast in America Summer Tour, First National U.S. Run in 30 Years

Fresh on the heels of sold out performances earlier this year in the U.S., South America, and Europe, Roger Hodgson, co-founder and original singer-songwriter from Supertramp, brings his Breakfast in America tour back to the United States.  Hodgson’s 34 date U.S. tour resumes on August 5 in Park City, Utah - marking his first major national U.S. tour since his departure from Supertramp in 1983.


Many may not know his name but would instantly recognize his voice and the classic hits he wrote and composed such as, “The Logical Song,”  “Breakfast in America,” “Give a Little Bit,”  “Dreamer,” “School,” “Take the Long Way Home,” “It's Raining Again,” and “Fool's Overture,” -  and other fan favorites including “Hide in Your Shell,” “Child of Vision,” “Don't Leave Me Now,”  and “Lord is it Mine.”


Uniting generations at his concerts, Hodgson transports baby boomers back to their youth and gives younger generations a taste of why his heartfelt songs have endured. Audiences are once again experiencing the magic and spirit that Hodgson created with Supertramp, a global success that resulted in sales of over 60 million albums.

For his U.S. Breakfast in America tour, Hodgson will be accompanied by a four piece band and promises an assortment of the classics he wrote and originally recorded with Supertramp, as well as select highlights such as “Only Because of You,” and “Lovers in the Wind” from his five solo album releases. 
Hodgson’s latest CD,  “Classics Live,” is available through iTunes, Topspin or from the Roger Hodgson Store.  

Journalists and fans agree that Hodgson is at the top of his game, his voice sounding richer and better than ever as he takes the audience on an uplifting musical journey. 


Journalist Reviews:“This is the real deal: a legendary music man, in brilliant form and shimmering presence, supported by a tight, terrific band. An evening with Roger Hodgson will raise your standards of concert-going.”  Huffington Post


“The power of the music was indisputable with many of the audience in tears of joy at the memories and emotions the songs evoked.  It was like seeing Supertramp back in their heyday.”  Evening Herald


“Frequently entertaining the audience with stories about the origins of his songs, Hodgson connects deeply with the fans in a way few stars of his stature do.”  San Diego Reader


“To the adoring fans who rise to their feet as Hodgson and his four-piece backing band take the stage … it might as well be 1979 all over again.”  Rolling Stone


“It was a love fest from the get go...”   Montreal Gazette


“All these years I thought I was a Supertramp fan when actually I was and am a Roger Hodgson fan.  What a show!  WOW is all I can say.”  David Wild, Contributing editor, Rolling Stone

Audience Responses:

“Hands down the best concert I have ever seen and I’ve seen everyone.   No other artist comes even close to the intimacy and magic that Roger Hodgson creates in his shows.   He holds his audience in his hands and they could not be happier.”

“Last night was by far the most inspirational and heartfelt concert I have EVER attended. What a great band you have put together. I kept commenting to my wife, that song was from his heart. We both did what you wanted everyone attending to do, left the show with a smile on our face and tears in our eyes. Great to have you back!!!”  

“We were blown away and deeply moved by the honesty and sincerity of Roger Hodgson’s show…All of life’s problems disappeared, and we felt like teenagers again!” 


ROGER HODGSON – BREAKFAST IN AMERICA U.S. DATES:


8/5       Park City, UT            Deer Valley Resort Amphitheater
8/9       Snoqualmie, WA        Mt. View Plaza, Snoqualmie Casino
8/10     Portland, OR              Oregon Zoo Amphitheater
8/11     Brooks, CA                 Cache Creek Casino
8/12     Saratoga, CA              Saratoga Mountain Winery
8/16     Hampton Beach, NH Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom
8/17     Lincoln, RI                  Twin River Casino
8/18     Atlantic City, NJ        Borgata Music Box
8/21     Lewiston, NY              Art Park
8/23     Highland Park, IL      Ravinia Pavilion
8/24     Blue Ash, OH              Blue Ash Town Square
8/25     Chautauqua, NY        Chautauqua Institute Amphitheater
9/16     Newport Beach, CA    Taste of Newport
9/18     San Diego, CA             Humphreys
10/26   Rancho Mirage, CA     Agua Caliente
10/27   Modesto, CA                Gallo PAC, Mary Stuart Rogers
11/1     Glenside, PA               Keswick Theatre
11/2     Westbury, NY             Westbury Theatre
11/3     Ridgefield, CT             Ridgefield Playhouse
11/7     Englewood, NJ            Bergen PAC
11/8     Morristown, NJ           Mayo PAC
11/9     Shippensburg, PA       Shippensburg University
11/13   Carmel, IN                  Center for the Performing Arts


For complete information on Summer and Fall concerts go to: http://www.rogerhodgson.com/documents/tour.html

Click here for a video montage:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzrd3PmVCkw

 Visit Roger online at:
Roger Hodgson Website:
www.RogerHodgson.com

Official Facebook: 
www.facebook.com/RogerHodgsonOfficial
Official Twitter: 
www.twitter.com/RogerHodgson
Official YouTube Channel: 
www.YouTube.com/MrRogerHodgson

Brief News Update for Wednesday August 1st, 2012

Wow! Unreal, it's August already, where did that year go?!

Well, enjoy the rest of summer folks,
Cheers, Al

New Europe video for 'Firebox!'

'Firebox' is the new single from Swedish rockers Europe!

Released from the highly lauded latest album from the band, 'Bag of Bones,' it continues to to show the less pop / rock driven direction the band were tagged with, when they first broke ground around the world with 'The Final Countdown.'

EUROPETHEBAND.COM - The Official EUROPE Website

www.europetheband.com

 The band will continue to tour through 2012, currently through Europe ... - No pun intended! - then in September they head to South America, before returning to Europe in October hitting many countries including Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Czech Republic, France and Holland.

In November they play nine UK dates.

For more details on the band's activities, follw the above link!

I wish they'd make the trek to the US though, it's been too long!

'Bag of Bones' review here:

http://chambersofrock.blogspot.com/2012/05/europe-bag-of-bones-album-review.html

FOLLOW-UP TO DIO'S BEST-SELLING 'VERY BEAST OF' ANNOUNCED!

As revealed to you all in Sunday's news update here, there was a new 'Very Beast of Dio - Vol. 2' to be released in respect of one of the greatest vocalists to ever grace rock music, Ronnie James Dio. RIP.

I have to say, as the Dio website posted, the album artwork is nothing less than sick!

What a gruesome, horrible album cover, kind of matching Uriah Heep's 'Abominog' for nastiness!

Saving grace, it's chock full of great musical material!

Here's the official press release folks!

In addition to fronting such legendary hard rock/heavy metal bands as Rainbow, Black Sabbath / Heaven and Hell and Elf, singer Ronnie James Dio also was the leader of his own solo band, Dio, who were responsible for such all-time great rock anthems as "Holy Diver," "Rainbow in the Dark," and "The Last in Line," among many others. And on Tuesday, October 9th, a second volume of Dio's best tracks will be unleashed via Niji Entertainment - 'The Very Beast of Dio Vol. 2' - a follow-up to the gold-certified 'The Very Beast of Dio.'
The 17-track CD picks up exactly where the first volume left off - from 1996 onward. And in addition to featuring such latter-day Dio classics as "Killing the Dragon," "Push," and "Fever Dreams," the compilation will also include several rarities that fans have long requested on a single disc - "Electra" (which previously was only a part of the ultra-rare 'Tournado' box set), "Prisoner of Paradise," and "Metal Will Never Die."

As the Dio Facebook Page Administrator, raves, "I absolutely know that every single Dio Fan is going to want 'The Very Beast Of Dio Vol. 2'! I'm a HUGE Dio fan, just like all of you, and I can't tell you how excited I am about this CD. I had the pleasure of listening to the CD that was produced, mixed, and remastered by Ronnie's longtime engineer, Wyn Davis, and it sounds BLOODY INSANE!!!"

Also included as part of the release will be liner notes penned by long-time supporter and friend of Ronnie's, Eddie Trunk from 'That Metal Show,' as well as an awesome front cover painting by artist Marc Sasso (who previously created the covers for Dio's 'Killing the Dragon' and 'Master of the Moon' albums).

'The Very Beast of Dio Vol. 2' will also be receiving a significant promotional push, as it will be promoted on Trunk's radio program, and will be given away via the infamous "Box of Junk" on an episode of 'That Metal Show.' And of course, the very popular official Ronnie James Dio Facebook page will get behind the release - which has over 735,000 fans (and receives between 800,000 to 1,000,000 hits per month).

As the Dio Facebook Page Administrator notes, "Just to let you know, the first 'Beast Of Dio' was only released in the USA and Canada, and has sold over 800,000 CD's to date! This CD will be in EVERY COUNTRY and our Dio Store too!"
The stellar music of Ronnie James Dio continues to live on. And the forthcoming 'The Very Beast of Dio Vol. 2' will be the perfect addition to every headbanger's collection.

TRACK LISTING FOR 'THE VERY BEAST OF DIO VOL. 2':

Killing the Dragon
Push
The Eyes
Along Comes A Spider
Better in the Dark
Fever Dreams
Black
Feed My Head
Shivers
Hunter of the Heart (Live)
One More for the Road
Lord of the Last Day
Electra (Bonus Track)
As Long As It's Not About Love
This is Your Life
Metal Will Never Die (Bonus Track)
Prisoner of Paradise (Bonus Track)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:

www.ronniejamesdio.com
 www.facebook.com/OfficialRonnieJamesDio
 www.facebook.com/nijientertainmentgroup

VH1 Classic presents

New 'That Metal Show' Season 11's guests announced!

Yes, the popular US TV rock show, 'That Metal Show' broadcast through VH1 Classic is due to return for it's 11th Season - Yes really! - on Saturday August 11th!

The show hosted by rock and metal mastermind Eddie Trunk and his co-hosts Don Jamison and Jim Florentine, should be a welcome breath of fresh air for rock and metal fans everywhere. I for one, am looking forward to it greatly!

So read on for the lowdown on what Season 11 is going to bring, rock on!

From EddieTrunk.com 7/31/12:

Thanks for your patience everyone.

You have all been asking and I am pleased to finally present to you the guests for That Metal Show Season 11 debuting 8/11 on VH1 Classic. This round was a bit of a challenge since so many bands are on tour in the Summer, but I hope you will agree we have a tremendous roster of new and returning guests and rock, hard rock and metal represented.

That is all a big key to the growth and evoltuon of TMS and I appreciate you all watching and supporting the show as always.

This season will consist of 6 shows we are taping starting this Sunday on Los Angeles, and two shows we shot in March that will make their debut.

So 8 new shows in all. The two shows from March start us off. They are:

8/11: David Draiman of Disturbed, Russell Allen, Mike Orlando of Adrenaline Mob, Mike Portnoy on drums. (this show was a sneak preview as well during the recent marathon but makes it official premiere)

8/17: Bobby Blotzer of Ratt, Stephen Riley and Phil Lewis of LA Guns, Steve Stevens on guitar.

The following shows will be the 6 new that will be added that we tape starting this weekend.

Premiere dates TBA:

Geoff Tate and Zakk Wylde
Joey Kramer and Brad Whitford of Aerosmith, Tom Petersson of Cheap Trick
Steve Harris of Iron Maiden
Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart, Lita Ford
Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony
King Diamond, Mark Tremonti

In addition, we have 3 returning guitar greats to play in the above 6 shows; John 5, Doug Aldrich and George Lynch.

Former Biohazard frontman Evan Seinfeld will appear in a Guest Top 5.
Maybe a few more surprises as well. Be sure to follow on Twitter @EddieTrunk for photos and updates as we shoot these shows. Thanks for watching and hope you like what's headed your way very soon! And a special thanks to all the above artists for being a part of the show and making the time to be on TMS!

Weblink:

http://eddietrunk.com/

News Update for Tuesday July 31st, 2012

United Kingdom, 'Are You Ready To Rock' with Michael Schenker ... In 2013?!

Due to the critical acclaim Michael Schenker received on his 2012 UK tour, the legendary guitarist will return with his classic rock band, "Temple of Rock" on a 12-date UK tour in April 2013.

The tour kicks-off on Tues 9th April at ARC, Stockton on Tees.

Tickets for all twelve 'Temple of Rock' UK concerts go on general sale Monday July 30th. Book online: www.thegigcartel.com or call the Ticket Hotline: 0844 478 0898. (UK)

Ed's note: I guess he's calling the band, 'Temple of Rock' now then ...?

Michael Schenker: April 2013 UK Tour:

Stockton Arc                           April 9
Aberdeen Lemon Tree           April 10
Edinburgh Picture House       April 11
Newcastle o2 Academy          April 12
Holmfirth Picturedrome         April 13
Warrington Parr Hall            April 14
Falmouth Princess Pavilion    April 16
Bristol O2 Academy               April 17
Salisbury City Hall                 April 18
Oxford o2 Academy               April 19
Nottingham Rock City           April 20
Norwich Waterfront              April 21

Following his acclaimed 2009/10 world tour performing the MSG 30th Anniversary Show, Michael was joined by (original MSG vocalist) Gary Barden, with a host of other classic rock legends including Carmine Appice, Simon Phillips, Chris Slade and Chris Glen. Schenker’s Temple of Rock band is ready to conquer the UK with a celebrated kick-ass, all-star line-up.

Boasting Ex-Scorpions stars Herman Rarebell (drums) and Francis Buchholz (bass), MSG stalwart Wayne Findlay (keyboards) and Scottish vocalist Doogie White (ex Rainbow, Yngwie Malmsteen), the Temple Of Rock concerts will feature plenty of hits spanning Michael Schenker’s career with The Scorpions, UFO and MSG.

Songs to be performed by the “Temple of Rock” include UFO’s 'Rock Bottom' and 'Doctor Doctor,' MSG’s 'Armed and Ready' and 'Into The Arena,' and the Scorpions classics 'Another Piece of Meat' and 'Rock You like a Hurricane.' In addition, Schenker will perform brand new songs from the recently released Temple of Rock album including the Planet Rock radio favourite 'Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead.'

In 2010, Michael Schenker received the Marshall '11' Award at the Classic Rock Magazine Roll Of Honour Awards. The following year he rocked the High Voltage Festival, and also toured the UK with Black Country Communion.

More details on this press release and some great pic's, go to:

www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/michaelschenker/uktour.htm.

Michael Schenker - Official Website:

www.michaelschenkerhimself.com

Michael Schenker - Official Facebook:

www.facebook.com/MichaelSchenkerRocks

PRIDE OF LIONS to return with an "Immortal" fourth album!

 Frontiers Records is excited to announce the return of PRIDE OF LIONS with the release of their anticipated fourth studio album entitled “Immortal” on September 21st in Europe and September 24th in North America.
 

The 11 tracks new album is everything Melodic Rock fans expect from these guys: powerful vocals from Toby Hitchcock and Jim Peterik, amazing music from the Pride Of Lions band and guest musicians, and of course epic songs from the pen of Grammy - winning songwriter and founding member of Survivor, Jim Peterik.

 “After producing and writing the songs for Jimi Jamison’s wonderful 2009 release, “Crossroads Moment,” I needed a minute or two to get my juices back flowing in the direction of writing a great new Pride Of Lions record. When Toby decided to do his solo album, this was the perfect time for reflection. Once I started writing, the flood gates just opened up. I feel this is the CD to put POL on the map once and for all” says Peterik.

 Indeed all the pieces are there that made Pride Of Lions the group to watch back in 2003 with their self-titled debut record on Frontiers. Timeless songs such as “It’s Criminal”, “Sound Of Home” and “Gone” are still on the I-pods and cd players of thousands of rock fans worldwide, but Toby Hitchcock's voice this time has gained a new maturity and depth while sacrificing none of his incredible 4 octave range.

 “When I was approached by Serafino Perugino (Frontiers Records President and guiding light) to do the next POL record I knew he wouldn’t settle for less than my very best as a songwriter and producer. I couldn’t let him or the fans down - so I really got down to business,” continues Jim.

 The results speak for themselves. Joined again by Jim's long time musical partner Larry Millas the album is a sonic powerhouse. Back up vocals are supplied by Thom Griffin ex of Trillion and a new rock tenor on the scene Marc Scherer. The title track is sheer POL magic “Immortal” with its key line: “For the thousand times we fail, it’s the one thing we did right, that leaves a mark forever on this world - and makes us Immortal.” “Delusional,” another key cut (chosen to become the first single and music video) tackles the subject of the way we as a people overprescribe medication to young people that may be a bit different from the norm, to make them conform with the status quo- thus choking off their brilliant uniqueness.

Pride of Lions - Jim Peterik and Toby Hitchcock

 

Of course the power ballads are there as always: “Everything Money Can’t Buy,” the melancholy gem, “Are You The Same Girl” and “Sending My Love”.

 “For me,” states Toby Hitchcock, the pivotal song on this CD is “Sending My Love”. I’m a sucker for a great ballad and this one spoke to my soul. Being a new father, it gets more and more heartbreaking to be away from my loved ones on the road. I love the road, don’t get me wrong, but its tough being separated from them as well.”

The rockers, of course, rock as hard as ever. The album’s closer, “Ask Me Yesterday” explores the natural wisdom we seem to lose over time. “If It Doesn’t Kill me” explores the Nietzschian quote: “What doesn’t kill me- makes me stronger!”

 “Another strong rocker, in my opinion, is “Vital Signs,” says Peterik. “It’s a song I started back in 1984 while making Vital Signs with Survivor. I often like to have a song be the title cut- i.e. 'When Seconds Count,' 'Eye Of The Tiger,' 'Too Hot To Sleep,' 'Caught In The Game' etc. But this time I couldn’t quite finish this tune - until finally this year.”

 “Immortal” is a vital album (pun intended) for POL. “We hope to finally break big in our own country - the USA. It’s great having the world wide profile that we do - when Toby and I walk the streets of Barcelona the people point and shout - Pride Of Lions! I’d like that to happen in Cincinnati!” concludes Jim Peterik.

 Some big shows are currently being set up for Pride Of Lions including a show with Styx in the Chicago area around the time of this release.

 So enjoy another epic album from a band that is more than a flash in the pan project. Pride of Lions is the real thing - and they are here to stay!

 “Immortal” tracklisting includes:
 Immortal; Delusional; Tie Down The Wind; Shine On; Everything That Money Can’t Buy; Coin Of The Realm; Sending My Love; Vital Signs; If It Doesn’t Kill Me; Are You The Same Girl; Ask Me Yesterday.

 

 The first single “Delusional” will be available for digital purchase only on September 5th.

A videoclip will be made available soon – an album trailer is available now:

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CcRwjOmIOA &

 

PRIDE OF LIONS:

 Toby Hitchcock: lead vocals
Jim Peterik: lead and harmony vocals, acoustic and electric guitar, all keyboards, bass (on 10), percussion.

Add. Musicians:
Kelly Keagy: drums on 1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 10
Ed Breckenfeld: drums on 3, 4, 6, 7, 11
Bobby Lizik: bass on 1, 2, 5, 6, 8, 9
Klem Hayes: bass on 3, 4, 7, 11
Mike Aquino: additional lead guitar on 3, 5

Websites:

http://www.aprideoflions.com/

www.frontiers.it

 

EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT TO RELEASE GREATEST VIDEO HITS BY QUEEN
 ~2 DVD OUT AUGUST 28~
 

New York, NY (July 30, 2012)—Over three hours long on two DVDs, one of the greatest visual bands in rock history will get their due on August 28 when Eagle Rock Entertainment, the world leader in visual music, releases Greatest Video Hits by Queen.

Upgraded digitally in DTS 5.1 Surround Sound, with added commentary from lead guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor, this 2 DVD set packages Queen’s pioneering and groundbreaking video history into a seamless whole.
33 videos deep, this is the first time that this collection will be released in one package.

Heavy on the early days, the first disc spotlights Queen in the 1970s, when the music video as an art form began to emerge. It includes the iconic “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Another One Bites The Dust,” “We Will Rock You” and “We Are The Champions,” as well as “Flash,” from the 1980 sci-fi film Flash Gordon.

From the freezing backyard shoots of “We Will Rock You” and “Spread Your Wings,” to the visual masterpiece that accompanies “Bohemian Rhapsody,” Queen was already showing off the various ways that they visually wanted to represent their music.

The 1980 years are represented on Disc 2, from 1982’s Hot Space album through 1989’s The Miracle. With the advent of MTV in the US, Queen proved they could be as creative visually as they were on record. The ’84 “Radio Ga Ga” video was hailed by both film and music critics alike for its referencing of the original 1927 cinematic milestone Metropolis by Fritz Lang.

From the spoofing of Coronation Street in “I Want To Break Free,” to children replacing the band members in “The Miracle,” Queen put their stamp on the music video in the best way they knew how – offering something fresh and different every time.

Queen burned so bright it created a legacy that continues today. From its self-titled 1973 debut to its fitting finale 1995’s Made In Heaven, the band set precedents within rock music that will never be equaled. Singer/songwriter/pianist/guitarist Freddie Mercury (1946-1991), bassist John Deacon, May and Taylor meshed like magic and the results will be seen, heard and deeply felt on August 28.

Eagle Rock will also release the Freddie Mercury documentary The Great Pretender on DVD and Blu-ray September 25.


Track Listing:

Disc #1)

Bohemian Rhapsody
Another One Bites The Dust
Killer Queen
Fat Bottomed Girls
Bicycle Race
You’re My Best Friend
Don’t Stop Me Now
Save Me
Crazy Little Thing Called Love
Somebody To Love
Spread Your Wings
Play The Game
Flash
Tie Your Mother Down
We Will Rock You
We Are The Champions

Disc #2)

A Kind Of Magic
I Want It All
Radio Ga Ga
I Want To Break Free
Breakthru
Under Pressure
Scandal
Who Wants To Live Forever
The Miracle
It’s A Hard Life
The Invisible Man
Las Palabras De Amor
Friends Will Be Friends
Body Language
Hammer To Fall
Princes Of The Universe
One Vision

Weblinks:

http://www.queenonline.com/

http://www.eagle-rock.com/

TOTO to appear at JackFM Concert, September 15!

Don't miss Jack FM's 7th Show on Saturday, September 15 at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Irvine, California!

www.931JackFM.cbslocal.com

Appearing at this year's show will be Joe Walsh, Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, TOTO, Gin Blossoms, MC Hammer, and Missing Persons featuring Dale Bozzio.

Tickets go on-sale this Friday, August 3 at www.livenation.com.

Don't forget to purchase your TOTO VIP Packages which include exclusive TOTO merchandise, a Meet & Greet / Photo Op with TOTO, and much more!

Get yours at:

http://totovipexperience.com/

Official band website:
http://www.toto99.com/

Late News Update for Sunday July 29th, 2012

Hi All,

I'm really close to wrapping up, typing up the interview I did earlier this year with David Paich and I have to tell you, I think you'll really enjoy this one.!

I'm really truly sorry with the lack of updates. you have had, but hopefully things will get to a better situation and I can keep more up to date on here.

Meantime, here's a few updates.

Cheers, Al

Marshall Amps - 50 Years of Loud concert event

Nothing can beat them, nothing in the world.” - Jimi Hendrix

"What Jim Marshall did ... was provide English heavy metal and blues players with these weapons." - Pete Townshend

JOE SATRIANI (CHICKENFOOT), ZAKK WYLDE (BLACK LABEL SOCIETY), PAUL GILBERT (MR BIG), DOUG ALDRICH (WHITESNAKE), BRIAN TICHY (WHITESNAKE),  YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, BILLY DUFFY (THE CULT), COREY TAYLOR (SLIPKNOT/SOUR STONE), TIM ‘RIPPER’ OWENS (JUDAS PRIEST), GLENN HUGHES (BLACK SABBATH, DEEP PURPLE), MIKE PORTNOY (DREAM THEATER), ANDY FRASER (FREE), KERRY KING (SLAYER)

To celebrate 50 legendary years of musical innovation, Marshall Amplification is taking over Wembley Arena with for night of full on rock and roll on Saturday 22nd September to celebrate the iconic amps and the life of the late, great Jim Marshall.

The artist line-up thus far includes global rock royalty from bands including Iron Maiden, Slipknot, Whitesnake, Chickenfoot, The Cult, Black Label Society and many more

The Pub Landlord, Al Murray, and Maiden's Nicko McBrain will be on hand to compere the event along with Planet Rock, will be joined by the world’s most legendary guitarists, acclaimed musicians and Marshall enthusiasts including multiple Grammy nominee and Chickenfoot super-group founder Joe Satriani, Ozzy Osbourne collaborator and founder of Black Label Society Zakk Wylde, technical wizard and one of GuitarOne magazine’s "Top 10 Greatest Guitar Shredders of All Time" Mr Big’s Paul Gilbert, bass legend Glenn Hughes, Whitesnake’s Doug Aldrich and Brian Tichy, Swedish virtuoso Yngwie Malmsteen, The Cult’s Billy Duffy and Slipknot/ Stone Sour front man Corey Taylor . There are also further big names to be announced.

"This is truly a celebration of a British Icon - Marshall," says Nicko. "Beyond doubt, Jim Marshall and the team shaped the sound of rock music for eternity! Words cannot describe how pioneering Marshall is ! I feel more than privileged to be involved in this event. We’re bringing together beyond-legendary artists for a moment in history. Expect pure rock n roll madness amplified to the max by Marshall! ”

And the line-up for Marshall Amps 50th Anniversary event just got louder with the addition of more names to the already storming line-up. Dream Theater’s drummer and progressive metal legend Mike Portnoy joins hit songwriter and founding member of Free, Andy Fraser and all-round thrash metal superstar and co-founder of Slayer Kerry King for this rock n roll spectacular.

Kerry King commented: "If I stand in front of my rig, if my nuts ain't shaking then I ain't satisfied... and the only stuff that can do that is my Marshalls!  Marshall has help helped shape my career in so many ways.  The company even produced my very own fearsome, ass kicking signature amp " The Beast” . To me Jim Marshall was the ultimate rock star because he and his team made us all sound better.  It’s an incredible honour to have my signature on an amp right next to him and an incredible honour to play at this event. Let’s make it thunder!”

You can get tickets for this remarkable event below

CLICK HERE TO GET TICKETS:
http://www.eventim.co.uk/tickets.html?fun=erdetail&affiliate=ro2&doc=erdetaila&erid=739519

Official Marshall website:

http://www.marshallamps.com/

Grammy Winning Japanese Guitarist TAK MATSUMOTO To Release Debut Solo Album on 335 Records on

August 7

 The eclectic album mixes Jazz, Blues, Rock, and features a cover of "SUKIYAKI" with the special guest appearance of 4-time Grammy Winning guitarist Larry Carlton

 
Championed in his homeland as the most renowned guitarist in all of Asia, Tak Matsumoto  is primarily revered as chief songwriter, GRAMMY WINNING guitarist and producer of the Japanese rock band, B'z. Counting a legacy of 18 albums, "B'z" truly means big business!

With combined sales totaling over 80 million units in Japan alone, Tak's artistic vision has easily made them Japan's best-selling band in history. As a soloist, 2002 served as a landmark year for Tak with the Japanese release of his much heralded instrumental albums, "Hana" and "Dragon from the West". Hana garnered rave reviews for its powerfully flowing melodies evocative of scenic horizons of the Orient. The album's bonus track, "Trinity," finds Tak stretching the boundaries of "rock" guitar, blending different tastes in the melodies while retaining the same distinctive Japanese spirit.

In 1999 he became the first, and to date, the only guitarist from Asia to be given his own Signature Model Les Paul by Gibson and added to Gibson's signature artist club. "Strings Of My Soul" marks the second time Tak has released a solo project outside of Asia (the first was "Hana" in 2003). Audiences everywhere will fall in love with these beautiful melodies inspired by Tak's Eastern influences. This eclectic album mixes Jazz, Blues, Rock, and features a cover of "SUKIYAKI" with the special guest appearance of 4-time Grammy Winning guitarist Larry Carlton. In addition, producer, artist, and two-time Grammy winner, Paul Brown lends his talents to this great record.  

"To begin with, the idea of making this album was to make an album with all of my favorite songs I've encountered during my solo career. Not just a best-of album, but I wanted to try playing them again with my current style. More like "A new album of myself". - Tak Matsumoto

Tak first teamed up with 335 Records in 2010 when he released "Take Your Pick", a collaboration with Larry Carlton. This release would prove to be a knock-out and went on to win the Grammy for "Best Pop Instrumental Album" at the 53rd annual Grammy awards earning Tak not only his first nomination, but first win. "Strings Of My Soul" entered at #4 on Japanese Charts in its debut week.

Produced by Tak Matsumoto

Co-Produced by Paul Brown and Robert Williams

For more information on Takahiro "Tak" Matsumoto visit: 

www.335records.com

Tracklist:

1. The Moment

2. Live Life

3. Trinity

4. Blue

5. Hana

6: Koi-Uta

7. Sasanqua ~ Winter Sun

8. The Wings

9. Sukiyaki featuring Larry Carlton

10. My Favorite Things
11. Romeo & Juliet

Link to Purchase:

http://www.seeofsound.com/p.php?s=CD335-1208

Some News Briefs ....

Metallica new album on the way
According to Metallica's Lars Ulrich, the band will enter the studio in September to start recording a new album.

In a conference call with reporters, Ulrich said front man James Hetfield was coming up with some great ideas.

"Every time [he] picks up a guitar there's some brilliant riff that comes out of him.
I try to make sure that they're all recorded and try to do my best to keep up with them and try to put some drums behind them."

Their last release, 'Death Magnetic' was released back in 2008.
Story source:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/19014103


Phillip Lynott Exibition returns to Dublin

DUBLIN RETURN - The exihibition that pays tribute to Phillip Lynott, the man and his music the 'Philo Exhibition' has returned to Dublin from London's O2.

Following a highly successful London O2 run, 'Still In Love With You: The Philip Lynott Exhibition' returned to the Stephen's Green Shopping Centre in Dublin, Thursday July 19, where it previously ran, with huge success, for a staggering eight months.

The highly acclaimed exhibition, which brought visitors to Dublin from all over the world last year, garnering rave reviews along the way, will now return to Dublin for the months of July, August and September 2012, with a programme of events being lined up to bring additional fun and entertainment to the run.

As lead singer with the legendary Thin Lizzy, Philip Lynott's powerful music reverberated around the world. The Philip Lynott Exhibition attracted tens of thousands visitors to Dublin and London from Russia, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Serbia, Japan, Brazil, Argentina, the USA, Canada and many more countries across the globe, as well as from all over the UK and Ireland.

Now, in "Still In Love With You – The Philip Lynott Exhibition", rock enthusiasts, music fans, families and visitors to Dublin alike can get another opportunity to take what is an emotional and inspiring journey through the life and times, the music and the memories of a phenomenal rock star and romantic.

For more info on this, go to:http://thinlizzyband.com/
http://www.philiplynottexhibition.com


The return of Dio's 'Beast'

News from the Dio camp, regarding the forthcoming new 'Very Beast of Dio Vol. 2.' 
This from the official website:

We want to tell all the FANTASTIC DIO FANS around the world the AWESOME NEWS about the new CD coming out this Fall WORLDWIDE!!!! Drum Roll Please!!!!
Dio Fans, I'm happy to tell you that we are releasing "The Very Beast Of Dio Vol. 2!"

I also have some TOP SECRET NEWS!!!!! There are 3 BONUS TRACKS that will be on this CD!!! We aren't releasing the track listing yet, but I can tell you that ONE of the BONUS TRACKS has NEVER been on a Dio CD before and ALL FANS WANT IT!
We absolutely know that every single Dio Fan is going to want "The Very Beast Of Dio Vol. 2!!!!"

Just to let you know, the first "Beast Of Dio" was only released in the USA and Canada only and has sold over 800,000 CD's to date!

This CD will be in EVERY COUNTRY and our Dio Store too!
OK. who is EXCITED?????

One more thing!
LEGENDARY Artist Marc Sasso has made one of the greatest CD covers for "The Very Beast Of Dio Vol. 2!" Marc is an AMAZING Horror Artist!
He did two Dio cover, "Killing The Dragon" and "Master Of The Moon!"
Marc has also done covers for Judas Priest, Fight, Two, Rob Halford and is a TOP Video game designer! The cover is so SICK!!!!!!

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


Japan's Loudness return

International metal giants Loudness will release their new album EVE TO DAWN on August 14th via FrostByte Media.  EVE TO DAWN marks the legendary Japanese band's 26th studio album since their inception in 1981 (Loudness just celebrated their 30th anniversary last year).  EVE TO DAWN is a spectacularly heavy opus from the "beast from the east" and is Loudness' first North American release in years.

Known for their blistering technical ability, Loudness was formed in Japan in 1981 by guitarist Akira Takasaki and late drummer Munetaka Higuchi. 
With four very successful and critically-acclaimed albums under their belt in their native Japan, Loudness became the first Japanese heavy metal band to sign to a major label in the United States.  With an astonishing 26 studio albums, numerous EPs, live albums and videos, Loudness show no signs of slowing down as the band continues to tour the world extensively in support of EVE TO DAWN. 

To date, Loudness has sold upwards of one million albums worldwide.  
Loudness is: Minoru Niihara (vocals), Akira Takasaki (guitars), Masayoshi Yamashita (bass guitar) and Masayuki Suzuki (drums).
Weblink:www.myspace.com/loudnessisback