ICONIC SINGER/SONGWRITER JACK BLADES TO RELEASE NEW SOLO ALBUM: "ROCK N' ROLL RIDE":
Much-beloved singer/songwriter/bass player extraordinaire Jack Blades is slated to release his brand new solo album, Rock N' Roll Ride, on March 23 in Europe and March 27th in North America via Frontiers Records. The new album marks Blades' second solo release for the label. Hot off the heels of Night Ranger's celebrated 2011 CD, Somewhere In California, and a massive North American tour with Night Ranger as support for Journey and Foreigner last year, Blades shows no signs of slowing down with his buoyant new album. Of the new offering, Blades commented, “Rock N' Roll Ride is an extension of what my music has been for the last 30 years. It has been quite a rock n' roll ride and I decided to lay it all down on a record!”
Rock N' Roll Ride features contributions from Blades' Night Ranger bandmates Brad Gillis, Kelly Keagy, Joel Hoekstra and Eric Levy, as well as a special guest appearance by Cheap Trick's Robin Zander. The first single from the album “Back In The Game” will soon impact at radio. Jack Blades is a frontman, lead singer, bassist, songwriter, and producer as well as a founding member of the highly-successful arena rock band, Night Ranger and supergroup Damn Yankees (along with Ted Nugent and Tommy Shaw from Styx) and the highly-regarded Shaw/Blades. Throughout his remarkable career Blades has sold over 25 million albums, performed in front of millions of fans worldwide and collaborated with some of rock's most legendary artists. With a career spanning three decades, Blades has recorded with, penned songs and produced albums for some of the music industry's biggest names including Aerosmith, Cher, Ringo Star, Alice Cooper, Roger Daltrey, Journey, Ozzy Osbourne, Styx, Ted Nugent, Motley Crue and Vince Neil. His music has been featured in movies such as Armageddon, Boogie Nights, Tommy Boy, television shows such as “South Park” and “American Dad,” the hit Broadway musical (and soon-to-be released major motion picture) Rock of Ages and the wildly successful videogame series "Rock Band" and "Guitar Hero". With Blades' songwriting, driving guitars, stage antics and on the strength of Night Ranger's songs “Don't Tell Me You Love Me,” “Rock in America,” “Sister Christian,” “When You Close Your Eyes,” and “Sentimental Street”, along with the Damn Yankees hits "High Enough" and "Coming of Age", Blades' legacy continues to inspire generations while still being written.
Rock 'n' Roll Ride trackisting includes: Back In The Game Rock 'N' Roll Ride; Hardest Word To Say; Anything For You; Love Life; West Hollywood; Born For This; Don't Give Up; Say You Will; Rise And Shine; Hey Now.
Musicians - Jack Blades: Bass, guitar, acoustic guitar, lead and background vocals; Joel Hoekstra: Guitars and solos; Will Evankovich: Acoustic guitars, mandolin, add. guitars, Coral Sitar guitar, background vocals; Kelly Keagy and Brian Tichy: Drums; Eric Levy and Christian Matthew Cullen: Keyboards; Robin Zander : Chorus vocals on "Anything For You"; Colin Blades, Kelly Keagy: additional background vocals; Brad Gillis: additional solo guitar on "Say You Will".
Weblinks: www.jackblades.net / www.frontiers.it.
xx
JOHN ELEFANTE KICKS OFF SOLO PLAN:
Star vocalist John Elefante has turned to fund raising site KickStarter to raise funds for his next album. All the details are here: www.kickstarter.com/projects/81972862/john-elefante-come-alive-a-kickstarter-project.
There are funding options from $10 to $10,000 - with some really cool rewards for those supporters. From the site comes this: "I'm about to embark on an exciting new venture - creating a brand new album of all new music that you, my family, friends, and fans have been asking for. I'm asking you to join me in helping this vision Come Alive! With your generous support, I am going to be making this new album completely independently, without any record label funding. This Kickstarter project is called "Come Alive," but the album is not yet titled. That's where you come in. I am taking suggestions on the album title and even the album cover design. Together I know we can make something great Come Alive!!"
IT BITES MAP OUT NEW ALBUM AND TOUR:
Following on from the highly-acclaimed Tall Ships, It Bites return with their first concept album in a career that spans 25 years. Inspired by the discovery of an old family photograph, Map of the Past is a highly personal journey that explores love, passion, jealousy, anger, remorse and loss through the eyes of a previous generation against the backdrop of Britain as it enters a new century and one of the most defining periods of its history. Written by John Mitchell and John Beck over the course of 2011, it was recorded at Outhouse Studios in Reading and features Bob Dalton on drums and Lee Pomeroy on bass.
Track Listing: Man In The Photograph, Wallflower, Map of the Past, Clocks, Flag, The Big Machine, Cartoon Graveyard, Send No Flowers, Meadow and the Stream, The Last Escape, Exit Song.
“Map Of The Past” (Insideout Music | EMI) is released in GSA: March 23rd 2012 / Europe: March 26th 2012
TOUR OF THE PAST - MAY 2012
18 May 2012 - (UK) York, The Duchess http://theduchessyork.co.uk/whats-on/detail/817
20 May 2012 - (UK) London, Bush Hall http://www.bushhallmusic.co.uk
24 May 2012 - (UK) Newcastle, The Cluny http://www.thecluny.com/listing/it-bites-0
25 May 2012 - (UK) Bury, The Met http://themet.biz/event/it_bites/1251
26 May 2012 - (UK) Workington
27 May 2012 - (UK) Bilston, Robin 2 http://www.therobin.co.uk/whats_on/giginfo.asp?gigid=2904
WebLinks: www.itbites.com / www.facebook.com/oncearoundtheworld / Twitter: @ItBitesBand / www.insideoutmusic.com.
MELODIC BRIEFS:
The 2012 Aerosmith tour starts in June. Tickets on Sale in March.
Poison/Def Leppard tour confirmed. Dates soon.
Chris Brodrick of Megadeth is the featured interview this week on Noize In The Attic - Where Your Past Comes Back To Haunt You. He discusses Gigantour, Thirteen, The Big Four and all things Megadeth! Catch the show Fridays 2-4PM EST and Saturdays 10PM - Midnight on 88.7FM WNHU New Haven CT (streaming live on www.wnhu.net) A list of internet affiliates and podcast links are posted at www.noizeintheattic.com with free podcasts also available at the iTunes store.
Kingcrow has updated the blog diary kingcrow-band.blogspot.com about the recording sessions of the new album InCrescendo. You can hear some fragments of a new song in the video included in the new blog or at www.facebook.com/Kingcrowband.
Part 2 of the Furyon"Making Of Gravitas" Video can be found online now:
LA PAZ ETCH NEW ALBUM IN GRANITE:
Granite¯, the first album byDoogie White & La Paz will be released in a week time, on February 13th (in US on March, 6th). Track Just For Today¯ promotes this unique album and is available to stream: soundcloud.com/metalmindproductions/doogie-white-la-paz-just-for Doogie White: 'Just for Today' was the first of three brand new songs and the first one we wrote together after a number of years for the album. The chorus wrote itself really. I wanted to keep the lyrics and melody in the style I did with La Paz. I think we captured it very well.
I thought back to how my world was back then… It was surprisingly easy. It's just about bumping into an old girlfriend and saying sorry while still trying it on. Love the arrangement and the Hammond on the chorus really gives it a lift. A simple but heartfelt wee song.'¯ La Paz were formed in Lanarkshire, Scotland in the summer of 1984 by Chic McSherry (guitars), Doogie White (vocals) and Alex Carmichael (bass). At the first rehearsal together they hit it off immediately on a personal level - they also liked the same music and they had the same influences and heroes (Purple, Rainbow, Journey, Gary Moore) so they started to recruit other members to try to form a band and go do some gigs. Andy Mason (keyboards) joined the trio and he fitted in from the start, even though he was still at school when he joined. Drummers were always a problem and, over the life of the band, La Paz went through almost as many as Spinal Tap. Unquestionably the loudest and the most accomplished was/is their current drummer, Paul McManus. La Paz played live regularly, sometimes playing up to a hundred gigs in a year. They played the world-famous Marquee Club in London as well as at some festivals in Milton Keynes and they were featured regularly in Kerrang! (Derek Oliver becoming a big fan of the band) and attracted interest from a number of UK and US record companies, finally agreeing terms with one of them for a three album deal. But it was not to be - for reasons which were never explained by the record label the deal fell through at the very last minute. Sadly the band didn't survive for very long after that. They did their last gig on 15th October 1988 and then Doogie moved to London to join Midnite Blue, Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, Cornerstone, Yngwie Malmsteen and now the mighty Tank. And then legendary DJ Tom Russell of 96.3 Rock Radio called Doogie and asked him if he would do some acoustic numbers at The Garage in Glasgow for Rock Radio's Birthday Bash in January 2008. Doogie agreed and asked Chic to play guitar. It was a big ask after 20 years: almost 1000 people, Doogie singing alone and Chic with one flamenco guitar! "We had such a blast though and it woke up so many great memories in both of us that we decided to give it a go with the full band for my 50th birthday" said Chic.
And so the full band started to rehearse and it was clear that they could still play a bit. The band just gelled: just like old times and the gigs were a terrific success. And so the idea of re-recording some of the favourites from the set that had never had a proper production job was conceived.
'Granite'¯ is an album with its roots in the past but its energy in the present. Metal Mind Productions will release 'Granite'¯ on 13th February 2012 in Europe and 6th March 2012 in USA (via MVD).
Tracklist: 1. Too Good To Lose 2. This Boy 3. Lesson In Love 4. Amy 5. Just For Today 6. What Do You Say 7. Still In Love 8. Young And Restless 9. Shame The Devil.
OZ KNOZZ RETURNS:
Houston based 70's Prog/AOR veteran's Oz Knozz have completed work on their new CD True Believer, the follow up to 2008's high praised 10,000 Days & Nights CD. The album which has been mixed and mastered by Brian Baker (of Derringer fame) is currently getting rave reviews in the UK press from Fireworks Magazine, Powerplay Magazine, Classic Rock Presents AOR and numerous websites and independent radio airplay in the UK (including ARFM). 'In amongst all the pomp and circumstance there are some wonderful moments that lean towards a more commercial U.S. 70's Rock sound. Early Reo Speedwagon, and even some Whitesnake in the guitar parts. I have to admit I really enjoyed this album, and that's testament to the delivery, and the honesty of the songs. And as good as the musicians are, they're nothing without the songs, and here you have the perfect combination, and that's good enough for me.' - Ant Heeks, Fireworks Magazine 'What a great, musically verbose album, may Oz Knozz flourish' - Steve Swift, Powerplay Magazine 'Up there with the likes of UFO and other vintage pedallers of classic rock. It harks back to early Journey, Kansas and Deep Purple, the crisp sound makes it obvious this is a new release' - Rock Realms 'There's enough spontaneous musical highs here to interest all self-respecting prog and classic rock fans alike' - Get Ready To Rock, UK 'Pomp rock of the highest order, the sound is superb and the song writing exemplary. Bands like New England, Avalon and Morningstar all spring to mind when playing this album. It sounds like 1979 never went away for these guys. Essential' - Rob Evans, Powerplay Magazine
The band are: Miton DeCoronado (Miltonio) - Lead Vocals and Keyboards; Duane Massey - Trumpet, Lead and Backing Vocals, keyboards; Robert Guinea (Robert-O) - Guitar, Backing Vocals; Bill Massey - Saxophone, Bass; Marty Naul - Percussion, Drums, Backing Vocals.
The album contains 10 tracks: 1. Empty Roon, 2. Goodbye Again, 3. Far Away, 4. Fox Paws, 5. Always There, 6. Here Comes The Night, 7. Visitor, 8. What The...?, 9. True Believer, 10. Kings And Treasures.
More info at: www.ozknozz.com / www.myspace.com/ozknozz / www.reverbnation.com/ozknozz.
Monday, February 06, 2012
DAVID LEE ROTH'S WORLD PEACE INTERVIEW:
There's been a lot of press an publicity for the Van Halen album out in North America and Japan tomorrow (following Australia last Friday and Europe today) - sadly little of it from the actual band. Maintaining the press black out that has been the last decade, the only hint of an interview was an Associated Press phone conference hook up with a few selected newspaper journalists and David Lee Roth a few weeks back. LA Times has already run their piece, but the Toronto Sun has kindly refrained from filling up a piece with their own words and just printed the wise words of wisdom (?) from frontman.
So, here it is - from: www.torontosun.com/2012/02/02/unchained-the-david-lee-roth-interview.
Truth is, David Lee Roth has always been different. “Nobody well-adjusted ever got my job,” explains Van Halen's larger-than-life frontman down the line from California. “Much less kept it this long.”
Fewer still have returned to it as spectacularly. This week, after months of mounting hype, speculation and rumours, the 56-year-old singer and his bandmates will release A Different Kind of Truth, their first disc together since their landmark sixth album 1984. Questions abound: How did the band finally make peace in 2007 after decades of bad blood? Is it just a marriage of convenience? How have things changed since the old days? Why does A Different Kind of Truth consist almost primarily of reworked '70s and '80s demos instead of new songs? You won't get info out of the Van Halen clan; they've stubbornly maintained radio silence for years. Even Roth is far from the loose cannon he once was.
And when he does break the silence — as he did in our exclusive Canadian interview — straight answers aren't his game. Never have been. A notoriously evasive subject, he basically ignores questions and delivers rambling monologues from his hotwired pinball machine of a brain. The legendary motor mouth spat out more than 4,000 words during our 30-minute chat, unleashing a torrent of metaphysical mumbo-jumbo, blatant boasting, random digressions and bizarre one-liners. He was entertaining, baffling — and mildly frustrating as he danced around inquiries. “You're gonna have a fun time editing this,” he laughed at one point.
But even as he hid inside his blizzard of verbiage, it became clear Roth has grown since we last heard from him. Instead of sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll, these days he's into the great outdoors (he owns three pickup trucks but no car), training competitive herding dogs (he just imported one from Manitoba) and emergency medicine (he was a New York City paramedic in the '90s).
Which is to say: Roth can still run off at the mouth. But he doesn't run with the devil anymore. He's a different kind of cat again. Older, wiser, more philosophical. Not that he wants that get around. “Don't go making me look smart,” he warns. “Nobody's going to want to talk to me.” As if.
As we count down to A Different Kind of Truth — and an upcoming tour that hits Canada in March — here are more revelations to ponder from the mouth of Diamond Dave:
1 | Van Halen are eternally unhip — and proud of it.
“We were never cool. Even when we were happening, even when we were the flavour of the week the first time, we weren't cool. John Travolta and Saturday Night Fever were cool. And across the street, The Sex Pistols and The Clash were cool. We were just kind of an island. I don't know that Van Halen ever really fit in. And it was not a conscious act. Many times we're trying to imitate other people; it just comes out looking and sounding like us. And today we're still not cool. We're somewhere between Katy Perry and Muse. Somewhere between Kings of Leon and Maroon 5. Welcome to our island. Abandon all hope.” 2 | They aren't taking this reunion for granted.
“Everybody values their privilege. And it is indeed a privilege and a gift to be able to have this job as opposed to a lot of the jobs the state offers. Everybody has had at least one or two medical near- misses or at least one or two dental tragedies. Sometimes that's all it takes — you get your teeth knocked out a couple of times and you start to realize you're mortal. That illumination alone can rebind a band. Besides that, we're gonna do it for world peace. I could answer all of of these questions with that. Do you want to do the 'world peace' interview?” 3 | But they are taking it seriously.
“Though Van Halen's history is incandescent and full of allegations — most of them true — we've taken the music very seriously. Starting from when we were classically trained kids (and) up to this minute, our work ethic is the antithesis of what common rock 'n' roll would be. We've been rehearsing for the last three months, frequently at nine and 10 in the morning. It's special ops in that it doesn't matter what time it is. We do it when we are called upon.” 4 | He still wants to get in your pants — musically.
“I'm still chasing the ideal that initially compelled me — which is to write a superb song with a permanently memorable lyric ... I don't know if it's a noble pursuit, but it certainly is a contribution of sorts. If I do it right, you'll have a tune wedgie for the rest of your time.” 5 | The new songs aren't old — they're vintage.
“I retooled all of the verses and melodies. I retooled all of the lyric. So there is a body of new that meets halfway there, that I think makes very colourful sense. The idea that it was in a vault — well, are you talking about a head of lettuce or fine wine, sir?
Perhaps age has dignified it even further by virtue of its authenticity.” 6 | It's all about Dave. Really.
“All music is autobiographic. Particularly when it's not meant to be.” 7 | VH speak the universal language.
“You don't need to speak English to understand what I'm singing about. You don't need to be a rock 'n' roll fan to love and appreciate the show. You don't even need to have hearing. Our deaf section is routinely filled. (But) we're also the ones who sold you Ricky Ricardo rumba for Jamie's Cryin' and Dance the Night Away. That's pure Carlos Santana ... I speak fluent Spanish. I can get us totally in trouble now in Spanish and Portuguese.” 8 | VH are the kings of jailhouse rock.
“My father was a prison doctor for the last 25 years of his career. We called it the Ivy League — Folsom, Quentin. And he used to joke: When one of our records would come out, both the guards and the inmates celebrated. If you carry a gun to work, whether it's with a uniform or a pair of two-tone shoes, you telling me you don't know me? Come on, loco!” 9 | They know how to get the party started on their upcoming tour.
“We picked Kool and the Gang to open for us because Kool and the Gang and Van Halen are the sounds of an entire continent at recreation. We've come to represent that — although you're more likely to hear Kool and the Gang at a bar mitzvah than me, even though I'm a brother.
You go to a Hasidic Jewish bar mitzvah and they'll play Ladies' Night by Kool. Me, they'll let in — 'But he doesn't sing; he runs with the devil!' ” 10 | Onstage, he wants to be outstanding in his field.
“The optimal is to be able to do what you promised to do from top to bottom in a Motown fashion. Can you sing the whole song? Is it recordable quality? Can you do it with authority? Night after night? Or did you have to Auto-Tune it? Did you have to put a whole lotta tinsel on the tree and utilize a lotta production value and a lot of troupe dancers and a variety of diversionary, result-oriented tricks? Which I like. But you better be as good as professional wrassling. The goal is to delight. Whether you use darkness and horror, or smiles and celebration, to delight is your obligation as an artist.” 11 | Offstage, he wants to be outstanding in his field.
“My favourite poem is one sentence long: 'Well, the sky should know me by now.' It's a contrast to the exchange of interiors that we experience as musicians. It is like living in a submarine — the inside of the studio, the inside of an arena, the inside of the bus. That is not at all a lament.” 12 | When it all goes wrong, he's the master of disaster.
“My first job out of high school, I was a surgical porter working the night shift down here in East L.A. And I kept all of those certifications up. There was about 10 years when I had to grow my hair out and conquer the world, so I put that curriculum on hold. However, today I'm a New York State EMT. I'm tactically certified ... Do you know how to feed 100 people breakfast? I do. Do you know the best way to get a fire going if you've got somebody wet and freezing? Get to the commissary — Fritos are so full of fat. You light a Frito, you're going to be amazed ... If something bad happens to you, I can pretty much unfuck the situation until the right people show up.”
FAIR WARNING "BEST AND MORE" - 20TH ANNIVERSARY DOUBLE CD:
It´s only 6 years ago when Germany´s first class rockers Fair Warning with their charismatic frontman Tommy Heart re-entered the stage after a break of nearly 5 years with to introduce the reunion album Brother´s Keeper. A sold out tour through Japan as well as some really impressive festival shows throughout Europe followed. In summer 2009 they released the much acclaimed studio album Aura followed by a gig at the huge Loud Park Festival and a sold out tour in Japan. These gigs were record and filmed and SPV / Steamhammer released "Talking Ain't Enough - Fair Warning live in Tokyo" in November 2010 as CD and DVD. In Japan the band has superstatus with gold albums and sold out tours but in the rest of the world they are still a secret melodic rock weapon. A lot of people don`t know that the band has released 6 studio albums and 3 live albums and toured in Europe with bands like Status Quo, Blue Öyster Cult, Giant and Saga.
This year the band celebrates their 20th anniversary and with the new best of CD Best And More the fans are invited to get all the Fair Warning-classics on a double CD with 32 songs - and on top the 2CD package for the price of 1. Unreleased tracks and rare live -and studio material plus a great booklet make "Best And More" a must have for all new and old fans. Release Dates: Germany March 23, Europe March 26, USA/Canada April 24.
Trailer for "Best And More": www.youtube.com/user/spv?feature=watch#p/u/12/pgQNXtdn2hE.
Tracklisting: CD 1 - 1 Burning Heart (Talking Ain't Enough) 4:40 2 Save Me (GO!) 5:09 3 All on your own (GO!) 5:08 4 Longing for love ( Fair Warning) 3:49 5 When Love fails (Fair Warning) 3.39 6 Angels of Heaven (GO!) 5:06 7 Out on the Run (Talking Ain't Enough) 4.05 8 Don´t give up (Rainmaker) 4.09 9 Long Gone (Fair Warning) 4:38 10 Generation Jedi (Brother´s Keeper) 5:12 11 Don´t keep me waiting (Brother´s Keeper) 4:23 12 Still I believe (Talking Ain't Enough) 6:13 13 Heart on the Run (Four) 5:40 14 Here comes the Heartache (Aura) 4:13 15 I´ll be there (GO!) 4:19 16 I fight (Four) 3:57 17 The Way you want it (GO!) 3:56.
CD 2 - 1 Rock`n`Roll ( Previously Unreleased) 4:00 2 A little more love (Live in Japan) 5:02 3 Come on (Go) 3:54 4 The Heart of Summer (Rainmaker) 3:44 5 Angel of dawn (Live at home) 4:26 6 The Call of the heart (Live in Japan) 4:01 7 Rain Song (Live at Home) 4:09 8 Like a Rock (Live and More) 4:07 9 Out of the night (Live and More) 4:30 10 Meant to be (Live and More) 4:28 11 Don´t count on me (Aura) 4:30 12 Just another perfect Day (Aura) 4:39 13 Light in the dark (Single Track) 4:22 14 Man on the Moon (Live and More) 6:29 15 Children´s Eyes (Single Track) 4:12.
NEWMAN ON THE ROAD: Newman are very pleased to announce the following shows in support of Under Southern Skies:
9 March - Horndean, UK - Colonial Bar www.colonialbar.co.uk
17 March - Thessaloniki, Greece - Rosewood Festival www.eightballclub.gr/?cat_id=7
6 May - Wolverhampton, UK - Z Rock Festival www.therobin.co.uk
1 September - Andover, UK - "Party In The Town Park" Festival Vigo Road, Andover.... More details TBC
More dates to be announced soon. www.newmansound.com.
FURYON SIGN TO NEW BOOKING AGENCY: Furyon has joined forces with Factory Music. Fergal Holmes at Factory Music will be in charge of booking Furyon concerts/gigs in UK, Europe and Japan. “It is great to be in the top professional hands of Factory Music“, said Furyon frontman Matt Mitchell. Added Holmes: “I can speak for the entire team here at Factory Music that we are excited to work with this great band.” Stated Axel (Rock N Growl Management): “Factory Music have so much experience, which will open new doors for Furyon.” Factory Music represent: Furyon, Children Of Bodom, Amon Amarth, Sonata Arctica, Amorphis, Enslaved, Firewind, Akercocke, Arch Enemy, Delain, Edguy, Evile, Exodus, Kreator, Wolf, Overkill, Kamelot…U.K. metallers Furyon will release their debut album, Gravitas, on March 23 in Europe and March 27 in North America via Frontiers Records. Furyon is a new band from the U.K. who like nothing more than to challenge expectations. Raised on a diet of heavy metal, prog, and classic rock, Furyon mix all these components for a truly unique and contemporary sound. Delivering huge rock-radio-friendly songs, with technically-challenging-yet-infectiously-catchy musicianship, they are dedicated to one sole purpose: making hard-hitting songs that will stand the test of time.
WebLinks: www.factorymusic.co.uk / www.furyon.net / www.frontiers.it / www.rockngrowl.com.
INTRODUCING JOHNNY WORE BLACK:
British rockers Johnny Wore Black are a new band headed up by ex-Royal Marine, Jay Coen. The band are officially releasing their debut single All the Rage on February 6 to raise funds for Help for Heroes, Combat Stress and Dare to Live. JWB's debut single All the Rage is highly pertinent to the armed forces as it takes inspiration from their dedication and work. The music video may be viewed on: johnnyworeblack.com.
Details of the single launch: www.facebook.com/events/173784902721212. Johnny Wore Black headlining at 10.15pm on 6th February at The Bull and Gate Venue, Kentish Town, London, NW5 2TJ.
NEW TANK CD AND DVDs IN 2012:
British rock legends Tank are in the studio recording War Nation, the highly anticipated follow up to their 2010 release War Machine¯. GuitaristsMick Tucker and Cliff Evans, vocalist Doogie White and bassist Chris Dale are now joined by former Tank member Steve Hopgood on drums. Scheduled for release in late April/May on Metal Mind Productions, recording is being overseen by new hotshot producer Phil Kinman at his west London studios. Doogie says, "We started writing for the new album last autumn and after a week or two we took the tapes and put a razor through them. We had just come back from a successful series of concerts and we were really vibed up. Listening to what we had laid down we knew we could do better. So taking a fresh approach we started throwing ideas around. I am very pleased with how it is all sounding now."
Cliff, "As with our War Machine album, War Nation will include a variety of different influences and styles. With a wealth of musical ability to draw from, we don't like to limit ourselves. Individually we've worked with names such as Ritchie Blackmore, Bruce Dickinson, Paul D'anno and Yngwie Malmsteen. So many bands release albums now where once you've listened to the first two songs you've heard the whole album. Not with Tank. Each song that makes it onto our album has to deserve it. Our standards are high."
Doogie continues, "With songs like 'Justice for All' and 'Grace of God' we are upgrading the Tank sound while retaining all the elements that made 'War Machine' so successful. There are killer riffs and haunting melodies and lyrics that you can take from, what you want, or indeed what you need. I did not want the album to be titled after a song. But I was overruled by the other guys so the album will be called 'War Nation'. With all that has been going on in the world over the last while, it appears that a great many people in the nations of the world are not prepared to put up with the status quo anymore. Whether its ruthless dictators, corrupt politicians and bankers, religious godheads. The people are restless and screaming Damnation, War Nation'." Tank will release their first ever live DVD this year. Recordings were made while opening for Judas Priest in 2011 and further footage will be captured during the bands show at Stodola, Warsaw on March 9th 2012. The set list will include fan favourites such as This Means War' Echoes of a Distant Battle' Power of the Hunter' and The War Drags Ever On' plus future classics such as Judgement Day' and Phoenix Rising'.
Tank will also play two shows in Sweden in March: 2nd, Zaragon Club, Jonkoping; 3rd, Rockland, Sala.
Full details on War Nation¯ to be announced soon. www.metalmind.com.pl.
Guitarist, Adrian Galysh, has recently posted an interview with singer, Graham Bonnet (Rainbow, MSG, Alcatrazz) on his blog, "Putting Words To Music". The interview recounts Graham's early start as a singer, musical influences, thoughts on the many amazing guitarists he has worked with, and the music business. Graham reveals that he thinks he'd be "a newspaper reporter" if he couldn't sing for a living in this exclusive interview. Adrian's Interview with Bonnet can be read here: adriangalysh.blogspot.com/2012/02/interview-with-graham-bonnet.html
Adrian Galysh has also posted interviews with other musicians he has worked with, like Quiet Riot bassist, Chuck Wright, and Supertramp guitarist, Carl Verheyen. You can read those here: adriangalysh.blogspot.com/2012/01/adrian-galysh-interviews-quiet-riot.html / adriangalysh.blogspot.com/2011/11/adrian-interviews-fellow-guitarist-carl.html.
Inmoria has recruited Ronny Hemlin (Steel Attack, Tad Morose) as its new singer following the departure of vocalist Sųren "Nico" Adamsen. Ronny sang for Inmoria on their U.K. tour in October 2011 and recently laid down his vocals on a number of songs from the band's latest album, "A Farewell To Nothing - The Diary Part I". Three of the newly re-recorded tracks are available as free downloads exclusively via Inmoria's web site, www.inmoria.com. At the moment the band works on a new studio album. This shall be released in Summer 2012.
Mike LePond is no longer with Sleepy Hollow due to his commitments with Symphony X. Based on Mike's highest recommendation, we have recruited Alan D'Angelo who is now our new and permanent Bass player. Alan will be in our upcoming video "Spiral Effect" and will also be in the follow up to "Skull 13" and beyond. Alan will make his live debut with us in March. Details on live show dates will follow.
News from German rockers Wild Frontier: "We recorded a new album called 2012 which will be released in April / May. We recorded 12 songs and at the moment we do the master mixing sessions. 11 own songs and one ABBA cover as a bonus track. The bands line up: Jens Walkenhorst - Vox, Guitars; Mario Erdmann - Bass; Thomas Ellenberger - Keys; Sascha Fahrenbach - Drums. www.wildfrontier.de / www.facebook.de/wildfrontier.
ICONOPHOBIC :: AVANT-GARDE ANCIENT ART-ROCK FROM IRAN: "Shades of Frank Zappa, King Crimson and Ian Carr..." - Iconophobic Review, Terrascope Online, Phil McMullen, Dec 2010
Iran, Tehran - Rock music is of course not rooted in Iran, but the enticement within the genre has strikingly pierced Salim Ghazi Saeedi's heart in his hometown. Living in a country with total domination of traditional culture, Salim has globally released his 4th album, Iconophobic. An album as a "strong statement from Saeedi on life in his home city of Tehran" (Steven Reid, Sea of Tranquility webzine, Sep 2010) or let's say "a stream of conscious story without words." (Christy Claxton, Stave Magazine, Sep 2010 )
Iconophobic is an instrumental concept album on "fear of the world of imagery", composed and performed for electric guitar, bass and synthesizers by Salim, hiring various elements of classical, electronic and progressive rock music to communicate artist's extreme feelings: Satire, bizarre phobias, ecstatic joy and embryonic love are themes of this daydream... "Pictorial rock", Salim says "is a term I use for my music that is usually based on series of mental images, a nightmare or maybe dreams of a sound sleep..." In this regard the album is accompanied by visualizations. "... However that as a listener, you have to wait for the pictures to materialize in your mind!" Salim adds.
The album is available for purchase at www.salimworld.com. Salim is currently preparing this album for performance with a medium-sized band.
NEW SHOWCASE: CD Showcase has had one addition today - previews for the new Human Temple album Halfway To Heartache. Check it out.
Friday, February 03, 2012
VAN HALEN - FIRST IMPRESSIONS REVIEW:
So it's been almost 24hrs with Van Halen's newie A Different Kind Of Truth. Initial fan feedback from those that received their copies seems to match the enthusiasm of those still expecting it. The band needed to deliver and they have done just that.
My first reactions were sent out via Twitter last night. here's a rounded out summary of those thoughts. A full feature review of the album will be posted next week - as soon as I get at least 30 spins of the album done.
The best thing about this new album - besides actually hearing new material at last - is the amazing energy on display. And this is vintage Van Halen as promised.
Track by Track:
Tattoo - Weakest track on the album. Still find it an odd kind of opening track (She's The Woman has a far more authoritive intro), but we're all familiar with it now. VH at their most commercial pop. An easy track to ease the public back into the band. I still see it as a better track 2 or 3.
She's The Woman - great presence and a dirty riff to kick off. Simple chorus. Heavy groove. Sweet instrumental bridge into the solo and a pounding rhythm section. EVH absolutely on fire!
You And Your Blues - Love the intro and the move into a big sonic blast. Dave sounds amazing. Classic VH meets darker dirty style like Humans Being or From Afar even. Monster song and fast solo, some big harmonies and generally a cool anthemic blast.
China Town - WOW! Blazing solo to kick off then triple time slamming drums and bass. Fast fast FAST and furious. Short Dave style chorus (typical throughout the album). That guitar sound is like Balance to these ears. Furious solo and drum flurry. Back to a steady vocal, old school Dave.
Blood And Fire - More old school VH here. Uptempo again. Simple chorus once again, but some nice riffing around the song. Has a 1984 feel to it. Surprise melodic bridge intro some tasty picking and a blazing heavy solo! Feels like the tempo picks up even more.
Bullethead - Fast and furious again and WTF was that guitar intro??!!! Simple fast one word chorus - classic Dave. But heavy and fast! Song includes the album's title in the lyrics. Effects in play for short solo. Fast rocking fun.
As Is - Loving this tune especially. This is HEAVY!!! And fast again with a Hot For Teacher vibe. How old are these guys again??? Great little chorus. Big BIG sound. And the close out is amazing. Guitars everywhere and dark and heavy. And some harmony box from DLR - who continues to sound incredible. What a solo! Fast furious shredding. Then into a Metallica heavy vibe. Now some HFT style spoken bridge.
Honeybabycutiedoll - Maybe the most bizarre guitar sound I've ever heard from EVH. Another uptempo track, a real groover. Dave speaks the vocals, but it works. One of those classic quirky VH tracks that each album seems to have one of.
The Trouble With Never - Another spoken word mid-track breakdown. Dave is having a blast and the groove of this album is unreal. Big commercial rocker that follows the last track perfectly. Big harmonies back again.
Outta Space - Another fast rocking groover. Yep, this beast is heavy! Another slamming display of rhythm. Dave vox really strong here.
Stay Frosty - Acoustic intro...Dave quirky lyrics and vocals and more spoken word stuff. Interesting use of DLR on this album. Then....BAM!...the song turns ULTRA heavy and features a monster groove. Mammoth close out with Alex going nuts.
Big River - More groove and lots of riffing. Dave going for a big vocal again. Fast and in your face again. Simple chorus as is the norm. Classic VH here. God the guitar sound is just HUGE!!!! Another great solo. Bit longer this time. Mixing riffs and picking.
Beats Working - Hard edged riff and matching drum beat. Fun rocker with more reminders of 1984. Defies explaining!
To summarize. The band have come together however they made it possible, but it's done and it's actually worth the wait. Another 30 plays and some flaws are going to come to light - Michael Anthony's trademark vocals an obvious point - but those flaws aren't going to be anything detrimental to the enjoyment of this album.
Every track has it's place and there's not a dull moment to be had.
The album is surprisingly heavy, very upbeat and has energy beyond description. This is not a 'chorus' album. Sammy Hagar brought that to the band, so fans of that era might be a little left out at times here. This is more a reflection of the classic vibe the band had in their early days. And why not - 7 of the album's tracks were moulded from 70s demos. But today they sound as fresh as they possibly could be. David Lee Roth's vocals have been wisely moulded into the groove of the album - its the best I've heard him since Eat Em And Smile. And the Van Halen's are simply stunning.
And to top it all off - ADKOT features a monster production job and a crystal clear mix. The guitars have real and immediate impact and the music is a finely balanced mix of old old classic familiar Van Halen along with and some fresh and recent Van Halen too.
It is everything Dave Halen fans have been waiting since 1984 for and there's plenty there too for Van Hagar fans. Full feature review to follow next week.
FROZEN RAIN GET AHEAD OF TIME FOR NEW ALBUM:
German label Avenue Of Allies will release the new album Ahead Of Time by the Belgian Melodic Rock band Frozen Rain on March 9.
Ahead Of Time arrives four years after the self titled debut album and marks the second chapter in the history of Frozen Rain. In 2008 the dream of the Belgian song writer & multi-instrumentalist Kurt Vereecke became reality when the first album of his AOR / Melodic Rock project was released. The very positive feedback of fans and reviewers alike paved the way for a follow-up of the successful first “Frozen Rain“ record.
Already early on some changes for album no. 2 were considered and eventually put into action. Thus all songs of the album were recorded with a constant band line-up of six musicians, besides Kurt Vereecke (keyboards, bass, acoustic guitar, backing vocals), Jurgen Vitrier (keyboards) and Vincent De Laat (bass) were already on board for the debut album. Strengthening the Belgian party of the “Frozen Rain“ team on “Ahead Of Time“ are Rik Priem (rhythm, solo and acoustic guitars) and Kurt's brother Hans Vereecke (drums).
The position as the front man on the mic stand is now occupied by one of the most distinctive German Rock shouters, Carsten 'Lizard' Schulz (Evidence One, Paradise Inc., ex-Domain). Rik's virtuoso guitar play and the decision to have Carsten as the sole lead vocalist on all songs (on the debut five singers shared the vocals) are a tremendous gain for “Frozen Rain“. In addition the songs sound tighter and more powerful thanks to the consistent line-up of musicians that delivers a real band feel on each cut and the refining of the material through the mix by Alessandro Del Vecchio (Edge Of Forever, Eden's Curse, Shining Line, Lionville) and the mastering by Dennis Ward (Unisonic, Pink Cream 69, Sunstorm).
A video clip for the song “Believe It Or Not” will be available soon.
WebLinks: www.frozenrain.be / www.facebook.com/frozenrain.music.
xx
The first anniversary of the disastrous earthquake in Japan will be on March 11, 2012. The aftermath of this catastrophe is still apparent, and to the present day the Japanese people are facing the impact of the events. The population of the affected area has not been able to completely return to their everyday live and the people are still grateful for our help. Some of Europe's leading Rock artists have united to join a campaign initiated by singer Tommy Heart (Soul Doctor, Fair Warning) and recorded a tremendous new version of the classic Beatles song "Help". The EP Help! For Japan will be released in Europe on the German label Avenue Of Allies in early March 2012. All income from the sales of this project will be donated to the Japanese Red Cross.
This EP includes the following four songs: 1. Help! 2. Help! (Tommy Heart Version) 3. Help! (Guitar Version) 4. Help! (Extended Version) The musicians: Don Airey (Keyboards & Piano, Deep Purple), Leo Leoni (Guitar, Gotthard), Neil Murray (Bass, ex Whitesnake), Hena Habegger (Drums, Gotthard) The singers: Tobias Sammet (Edguy, Avantasia), Bob Catley (Magnum), Andi Deris (Helloween), Torstein Flakne (Stage Dolls), Marc Storace (Krokus), David Readman (Pink Cream 69), Claus Lessmann (Bonfire), Oliver Hartmann (Hartmann), Bernhard Weiss (Axxis), Michael Kiske (Unisonic), Tony Mills (TNT), Carsten Lizard Schulz (Evidence One) and Tommy Heart (Soul Doctor, Fair Warning). The solo guitar players: Cede Dupont (Downspirit), Kyoji Yamamoto (BowWow), Helge Engelke (Fair Warning), Roland Grapow (Masterplan), Leo Leoni (Gotthard), Henny Wolter (Nitrogods), Robert R. Rodrigo (Airless). Avenue Of Allies on the web: www.avenue-of-allies.com.
The Black Sabbath reunion hasn't faced enough obstacles already, what with guitarist Tony Iommi's recent lymphoma diagnosis moving the band's recording sessions to London and reportedly forcing them to pull out of a headlining slot at Coachella. Now drummer Bill Ward has threatened to back out of the reunion in a lengthy public statement to fans on his website, saying that he requires a "signable contract that reflects some dignity and respect toward me as an original member of the band. Several days ago, after nearly a year of trying to negotiate, another 'unsignable' contract was handed to me," he notes in the letter.
Ward says that he feels as if he's "getting the cold shoulder," noting that this is not the first time. Indeed, Ward has weathered contractual disagreements with management in the past: In 2004, Sharon Osbourne announced that Faith No More drummer Mike Bordin would replace Ward on an Ozzfest tour (due to disagreements over a contract). In that case, an agreement was eventually reached and Ward took his place on the tour.
That said, Ward says that he still wants the reunion to happen: "Let me say that although this has put me in some kind of holding pattern, I am packed and ready to leave the U.S. for England. More importantly, I definitely want to play on the album, and I definitely want to tour with Black Sabbath."
The reunion of Black Sabbath's original lineup had been long-rumored, though denied by Iommi at one point. In November, the group -- Iommi, Ozzy Osbourne, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward -- announced plans for a tour and their first album in over three decades, originally set for release in fall 2012 and produced by Rick Rubin. In October, Ozzy told us regarding the reunion, "If it works out, it'll work out. If it doesn't, I'll keep doing my thing."
Ward's full letter is below:
"Dear Sabbath Fans, Fellow Musicians and Interested Parties,
At this time, I would love nothing more than to be able to proceed with the Black Sabbath album and tour. However, I am unable to continue unless a "signable" contract is drawn up; a contract that reflects some dignity and respect toward me as an original member of the band. Last year, I worked diligently in good faith with Tony, Ozzy and Geezer. And on 11/11/11, again in good faith, I participated in the L.A. press conference. Several days ago, after nearly a year of trying to negotiate, another "unsignable" contract was handed to me.
Let me say that although this has put me in some kind of holding pattern, I am packed and ready to leave the U.S. for England. More importantly, I definitely want to play on the album, and I definitely want to tour with Black Sabbath.
Since the news of Tony's illness, and the understanding that the band would move production to the U.K., I've spent every day getting to or living in a place of readiness to leave. That involves something of a task, and as I've tried to find out what's going on with the U.K. sessions, I've realized that I've been getting "the cold shoulder" (and, I might add, not for the first time). Feeling somewhat ostracized, my guess is as of today, I will know nothing of what's happening unless I sign "the unsignable contract."
The place I'm in feels lousy and lonely because as much as I want to play and participate, I also have to stand for something and not sign on. If I sign as-is, I stand to lose my rights, dignity and respectability as a rock musician. I believe in freedom and freedom of speech. I grew up in a hard rock/metal band. We stood for something then, and we played from the heart with honesty and sincerity. I am in the spirit of integrity, far from the corporate malady, I am real and honest, fair and compassionate.
If I'm replaced, I have to face you, the beloved Sabbath fans. I hope you will not hold me responsible for the failure of an original Black Sabbath lineup as promoted. Without fault finding, I want to assure everyone that my loyalty to Sabbath is intact.
So here I am. I lay my truth down before you. I'm good to go IF I get a "signable" contract. I don't want to let anyone down, especially Black Sabbath and all the Sabbath fans. You know I love you. It would be a sad day in Rock if this current situation fell to the desires of a few.
My position is not greed-driven. I'm not holding out for a "big piece" of the action (money) like some kind of blackmail deal. I'd like something that recognizes and is reflective of my contributions to the band, including the reunions that started fourteen years ago. After the last tour I vowed to never again sign on to an unreasonable contract. I want a contract that shows some respect to me and my family, a contract that will honor all that I've brought to Black Sabbath since its beginning.
That's the story so far. Stay safe and stay strong. I love every single one of you." - Bill Ward.
DRAGONFORCE REVEAL DETAILS OF NEW ALBUM:
(New York): London-based metal superstars DragonForce have revealed details of their forthcoming new album. Entitled The Power Within, this 10-track monster marks the band's fifth studio album and its first with new singer Marc Hudson behind the microphone. It will be released April 17 by Roadrunner Records in the U.S. DragonForce guitarist Herman Li said, "The last two years have been the most fun we ever had making an album. Through writing, jamming and touring together, we have built this incredible energy and it has been fully captured on the new album."
Li also claims the album boasts the fastest song the band has ever recorded. He continued, "This time around we've really brought our metal side to the surface and made some of the best music of our career. From the fastest song we've ever recorded to the slower songs, and some things you would never expect from us, this is by far the most diverse DragonForce album yet."
The full track listing for The Power Within is as follows: 1. Holding On 2. Fallen World 3. Cry Thunder 4. Give Me the Night 5. Wings of Liberty 6. Seasons 7. Heart of the Storm 8. Die By the Sword 9. Last Man Stands 10. Seasons (Acoustic Version)
There will also be a digital special edition featuring the bonus tracks "Cry Thunder (Live Rehearsal)," "Heart of the Storm (Alternative Chorus Version)" and "Avant La Tempźte (Instrumental)."
Look for exciting US tour announcements coming soon.
WebLink: www.dragonforce.com.
POODLES FRONTMAN ON SOLO MISSION: Samuel Jakob, vocalist for The Poodles has his solo debut album Pastpresent ready to go. Exact release date TBA, but the lead single Stars and Grace will be released February 20. Stay up to date at: www.facebook.com/JakobSamuelOfficial and www.poodles.se.
DIO STORE ADDS NEW FEATURES:
Check out the new and improved Official Dio Web Store: www.officialronniejamesdiowebstore.com. Smart phone? take a test drive on our new Mobile Dio Store. Built friendly for the on the go Dio shopper: officialronniejamesdiowebstore.com/mobile/
Now pay with All Major Credit Cards, PayPal, Checks or Money Orders. Multiple shipping options, rates are calculated real time by USPS and FedEx web apps. You decide if you want to receive your order fast or slow, it's up to you! We even offer normal postal mail to save you money. If you're not in a rush, this is a good option. Browse the new Dio Store Blog. Find information about new products, releases, related videos and stories: www.officialronniejamesdiowebstore.com/blog.asp.
New products and features are being added every day. We just added lots of new shirts for both men and women, hats, beanies, wristbands, CD's, DVD's, Blu-ray and more!
We have a brand new Ronnie James Dio Memorial Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund Shirt that 100% of the proceeds go to the Fund and you get a cool shirt modeled after the "Long Live Rock 'n' Roll" LP: www.officialronniejamesdiowebstore.com/Ronnie-James-Dio-Long-Live-Rock-N-Roll-Memorial-T-Shirt_p_60.html.
DECIBEL GEEK PODCAST RELEASES ERIC CARR (KISS) DISCUSSION EPISODE:
The Decibel Geek Podcast has released an Eric Carr (Kiss) themed episode featuring an in-depth discussion of the late drummers life and career with sister, Loretta Caravello. Hosts Chris Czynszak & Aaron Camaro speak freely with Carr's sibling about his time with Kiss, his legacy, and her caretaking of the drummers estate in the years since his passing in 1991. Caravello also shares her thoughts on some rumors that have been floating around the internet over the years; including one about former Kiss guitarist Vinnie Vincent acquiring ownership of Carr's makeup design.
This special Eric Carr-themed episode features music from the drummers time in KISS as well as clips from the new album 'Unfinished Business' which features many well-known hard rock and metal musicians contributing to round out unfinished demos that Carr had recorded during his career. The Decibel Geek Podcast was launched in June of 2011 by Chris Czynszak, a former rock journalist and webmaster. With co-host Aaron Camaro, the Decibel Geek Podcast is quickly earning a reputation as one of the go-to music commentary podcasts on the internet. This episode, as well as previous episodes, are available on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, as well as the official Decibel Geek Podcast website.
To access the Decibel Geek Podcast visit www.dbgeekshow.blogspot.com.
MR HOUSEKEPPING:
A couple of things that need mentioning folks... As part of the brand new site build going on right now, I have to select the system for leaving messages, comments etc. One choice is a stand-alone log in requiring membership; the other is to integrate Facebook accounts into the site. I'd like to get a little feedback on what user preferences might be. Both have their advantages...so let me know please!.
Secondly - I will next week launch a brand new mega-Auction of general CDs, cool stuff and specially donated items and memorabilia. Please look out for that - all auctions will be listed on EBay this time around. This auction is going to be very important for raising income for the site. I hope the items listed can generate some healthy bids!
Lastly - watch for news of MelodicRock Records next week and a couple of super specials for back catalogue items.
MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated again - this week featuring the following new downloads:
- Feature Album: Haywire - Don't Just Stand There
- Feature Album: Haywire - Nuthouse
- Live: Aldo Nova - Cleveland, USA 1991
Plus the following new Video Clips: Beggars & Thieves - We Come Undone, Grand Design - Get On With The Action and Sad Sound Of Goodbye, Furyon - Disappear Again and Saga - Only Time Will Tell. MRX Membership Info. Coming soon...an all-new MelodicRockXtra area.
Thursday, February 02, 2012
VAN HALEN ALBUM RELEASED TONIGHT IN AUSTRALIA:
As I type up this news update, Van Halen are on stage in LA for a special media showcase event, performing some classics and new album tracks for the gathered crowd. Pic below... Follow the event at the always fantstic VHLinks.com (www.vhlinks.com/vbforums/vh-secret-media-t54237.html) and also www.vanhalennation.com.
Despite e-mailing band management, their PR company and 3 different reps from the label, I wasn't deemed worthy of an advance preview of the new A Different Kind Of Truth album, which is released in Australia tomorrow (Feb. 3). So with any luck iTunesAU will deliver pre-orders sometime after midnight tonight - at which stage I will try and tweet my first impressions on each song and the album as a whole. Keep a look out at: twitter.com/MelodicRock for updates.
FRONTIERS RECORDS ARTIST NEWS: Primal Fear latest album Unbreakable entered the German official album charts at #31 in the week of release. This is Primal Fear highest chart entry ever in their home country! "The band and all guys involved in the progress of Unbreakable are totally happy & excited about the great news of our chart success in Germany" says bassist Mat Sinner"Thanks to Frontiers Records for their faith & trust! ... And now we can't wait to go on tour!"
In related news, "Unbreakable" also entered the Swedish charts at # 53 and the Dutch top 200 album charts. In the USA, Primal Fear's "Unbreakable" was the #1 most added at CMJ Loud Rock, received fantastic placement on iTunes Metal AND Rock landing pages and had an exclusive album premiere on the very popular site MetalSucks. Not only, but Primal Fear are also the #3 most-played album at commercial Metal specialty radio, beating out the likes of Lamb of God, Lacuna Coil and Megadeth!
Metal Nation Tour - Primal Fear + Brainstorm + Special Guest
01/04/12 Prag Metrix Czech Republic
03/04/12 Wien Szene Austria
04/04/12 Budapest Club 202 Hungary
05/04/12 Zagreb Tvornica Croatia
07/04/12 Sofia Hristo Botev Hall Bulgaria
08/04/12 Bukarest The Silver Church Romania
10/04/12 Berlin C-Club Germany
11/04/12 Kassel Fiasko Germany
12/04/12 Kerkrade Rocktemple Netherlands
13/04/12 Burglengenfeld VA Zentrum Germany
14/04/12 Bochum Matrix Germany
15/04/12 Ludwigsburg Rockfabrik Germany
17/04/12 Pratteln Z 7 Switzerland
19/04/12 Pamplona Sala Totem Spain
20/04/12 Aviles Quattro Spain
21/04/12 Madrid Sala Ritmo y Compas Spain
22/04/12 Huesca Sala Jai Alai Spain
30/03/12 Leipzig Hellraiser Germany
31/03/12 Zlin Masters of Rock Cafe Czech Republic
WebLinks: www.frontiers.it / www.facebook.com/frontiersrecordsofficial / twitter.com/FrontiersRec.
Furyon - "The Making of Gravitas" Part 1. Release dates: EU March 23 - USA/Canada March 27.
Frontiers Records is proud to present the new issue of Melodic Rock Fanzine. The 48th release of the label's successful magazine is available for free all over the world through record shops, mailorders and every fine dealer carrying the Frontiers Records releases. The two Melodic Rock Fanzine covers are previewed below. This new issue includes reviews and interviews of Primal Fear, Mollo Martin, Michael Thompson Band, Mark Spiro, Dragonland, Chris Ousey, Nightwish, Sonic Station, Beyond The Bridge, Sunstorm, Red Rose, Lee Small, Mr. Big... and more!
Electronic readable version of the magazine is available on the Frontiers official site and here.
Coming up from Frontiers Records in the first half of 2012 are the following cool releases: Crazy Lixx Riot Avenue; Tyketto Dig In Deep; Trixter New Audio Machine (all April); Little River Band; Baton Rouge; Seventh Key; Khymera Wings of Love (all TBA).
AOR HEAVEN ARTIST UPDATES - NEW SIGNING: KLAUS LULEY: Klaus Luleys career consists of numerous highlights. Way back in the early 80's of the last century he was the frontman of German based RCA recording artists Tokyo and put out three superb Melodic Rock albums. After the demise of the band he formed the band Craaft together with Reinhold Besser and Franz Keil. Switching to CBS Records they had a huge impact in touring with bands such as Queen, Marillion, Gary Moore, Level 42, Bon Jovi, Rod Stewart, Meat Loaf. Albums like their mighty debut 'Craaft' or ´Second Honeymoon´ are still sought after in every rock collection.
Furthermore the experienced singer/songwriter has penned for many artists amongst Meat Loaf and been in the studio singing sessions with Donna Summer, Jennifer Rush or Giorgio Moroder. After meeting Producer Michael Voss (Mad Max, Michael Schenker) two years ago, they have been planning to record a full new album with Luley's songs to showcase his abilities. The new label home was provided by Georg Siegl of AOR Heaven who always has been a fan of Luley and gave the whole project the kick off. Luley are: Vocals, Guitars & Keyboards: Klaus Luley; Drums: Chris Elbers (Gary Barden); Bass: Matthias Rethmann (LeeZ, Silver, Michael Schenker)
Driver almost finished recording with new album! Driver, featuring Rob Rock and Roy Z, have a new album coming soon. This as yet untitled CD is a highly anticipated slab of hard rock in the vein of their previous release "Sons of Thunder". Currently being mixed by Roy Z, and mastered by Maor Appelbaum in Los Angeles, the disc promises to carry on the traditional melodic hard rock onslaught with the same talented line-up, consisting of vocalist Rob Rock, guitarist Roy Z, drummer Reynold Butch Carlson, keyboardist Ed Roth, and bassist Aaron Samson. The band is seeking to also add some European shows this year to support the release on Metal Heaven.
Herman Frank – solo album No.2 due! Accept guitar player Herman Frank is almost ready with his second solo album, the follow-up record to the highly successful debut from 2009, “Loyal To None”! Herman has started to work in the studio on “Kings Call” in December 2011. This new record will include 12 or 13 songs in his typical Melodic and Heavy Metal style and a big focus onto massive guitar riffs. This is the first Herman Frank album to feature singer Rick Altzi (At Vance) on vocals.
Bangaloire Choir studio album No.3 on the way! Bangalore Choir are currently putting the finishing touches on their soon to be released new record called Metaphor. The line-up is David Reece, Andy Susemihl, Curt Mitchell, Danny Greenberg and Mike Johnson. “Metaphor” will include 14 brand new tracks.
THE CULT CHOOSE THEIR WEAPONS:
One of the finest British rock acts to have enjoyed worldwide success over the last few decades, The Cult, has wrapped up recording Choice Of Weapon, the group's first studio album in five years. The album is set for a May 22 North American release on the band's new label, Cooking Vinyl, and its 10 tracks reveal the band at its rawest and most visceral, encapsulating cinematic visions and themes of love, revolt, and redemption. Choice Of Weapon is the follow up to the 2007 release, Born Into This. Long-time Cult collaborator and producer Bob Rock (Metallica, Bush), who produced one of The Cult's most successful albums, the Platinum-certified Sonic Temple, put the finishing touches on the foundations that were laid by co-producer Chris Goss (Queens Of The Stone Age, Masters Of Reality).
The album was written by Ian Astbury and Billy Duffy, recorded in New York City, Los Angeles, the California high desert, and the band's Witch Mountain studio between July and December 2011. The new release features founding members Astbury on vocals and Duffy on guitars, with drummer John Tempesta and bassist Chris Wyse. “We have had the opportunity to work with two of the most influential and talented producers in the world today,” said Astbury. “They pushed us beyond our comfort zone, and helped us craft Choice of Weapon.” Choice of Weapon is aimed at the heart of The Cult's loyal following. It reflects the current discontent and destruction of our eco systems, the search for individual meaning against a tide of rampant materialism, narcissism and disconnected lives. “We went deeper . . . we worked a bit harder on this record. We have great fans and they deserve our best,” added Duffy, “and I feel this is as strong as any album we have ever released." The Cult is working on film and graphic elements to accompany the album's release, and plans are being confirmed for the band's 2012 World Tour.
According to Billboard, Choice Of Weapon will be preceded by the first single, 'For The Animals', which Astbury says reflects the Cult's attitude about making music. “The Cult is like an archetypal outsider group; we've never really fit in with one particular sect or genre,” he explains. “We've never been pigeonholed. We've stayed open to other influences… But some people don't like that. They want to say, 'We know who you are' and they try to put a leash on you. So this is about identifying with a raw, visceral animal. We don't belong to anybody. We go where nature takes us.”
Astbury adds: “Our intention was to make a record that was fresh. It's of its time, and we captured exactly where we're at right now, in the early part of the 21st century. I'm watching so many artists just terrified to make a statement of any kind. They're afraid they're going to get ripped apart in the blogosphere or torn apart by some critic who's basically just out of diapers. So many (artists) seem to be scared to come out and say what they feel. A lot of rock 'n' roll music has lost its teeth.”
Choice Of Weapon tracklist: 'Honey From a Knife' 'Elemental Light' 'For The Animals' 'Life Death' 'The Wolf' 'Amnesia' 'Lucifer' 'Wilderness Now' 'A Pale Horse' 'This Night in the City Forever'.
WELCOME BACK HIGHER GROUND:
Press Release - Sandviken, Sweden, January 31, 2012 - Speechless Music Production is pleased to announce the release of Missing You the highly anticipated first single of Higher Ground´s forthcoming new studio album.
The single "Missing You" and the forthcoming new album are produced, recorded and mixed by Higher Ground in their own studio. The single "Missing You" is a guitar based pop/rock song with sweet melodies which captures the unique sound of Higher Ground. The single "Missing You" was released digitally on the Internet in January 2012 and is available on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon and several other digital music distribution services. Higher Ground is a Swedish rock band formed in Sandviken, Sweden in 1994. The band is Peter Lindberg (vocals), Niklas Hammarberg (guitars), Erik Pettersson (drums), Ulf Merkell (keyboards) and Petter Eriksson (bass guitar).
In 1997 the band released the E.P. "Keep on Walkin´" on ProActive Records in the UK, which received considerable critical acclaim. The band began working on their debut album in 1998, shot a music video for "Ghost in My head" in London at the end of 1999, as the album "Perfect Chaos" was finally released in May 2000. In 2004 the album "A Thousand Pieces" was released on the German label "AOR Heaven". In 2009 the album "13 tracks" was released on the label "Speechless Music Production" that consisted of a number of songs from their previous albums (remixed and reproduced), as well as two new songs.
The sound of Higher Ground is like a great 'mixtape', blending rock with pop melodiousness, a bit of soul with classic rock dynamics and modern melodic rock with a touch of AOR/pop from the eighties. The band has all the ingredients that you would expect from a Swedish rock band, melodic hooks with a melancholic touch – Just good music, timeless and for everyone!
Listen: www.higherground.nu.
FATAL SMILE - SWEDENS HARDEST WORKING BAND IS BACK:
After 350 shows worldwide during their "World Domination Tour" touring with bands like Dio - W.A.S.P. - Queensryche - Doro - Lordi to following up their recent success album World Domination mixed by legendary Michael Wagener famous for his work with bands like Metallica, Ozzy Osbourne, Mötley Crüe... Fatal Smile spent over a year writing, and recording songs for what they knew was the album to become their legacy. The album was recorded in the tour buses, hotel rooms and studios all over the world before finally eleven songs were singled out and re-recorded during 2011. Ten top names tried out for the mixing job, all mixing the song planned as the second single of the album. The band put together a jury of friends to pick out their favorite mix, which turned out to be mix no. 5, not knowing it was mixed by Philty and Mr.Y!
After a year of blood, sweat and beer´s it´s finally time for their brand new album 21st Century Freaks to see the light of day!
This time they have done everything on their own to make it the ultimate FATAL SMILE album, from recording and engineering to producing and mixing the album and the result is massive, with "in your face" songs and a "larger than life" sound! The album is produced by Mr.Y, engineered/recorded by Philty and mixed by the pair together...The mastering duties was handled by Mats "Limpan" Lindfors at Cutting Room Studios. The first single "Welcome To The Freakshow" will be released in March and the album will be released in Europe on April 27 via Metallville Records. The release will be followed by a massive world tour, and you can expect to see Fatal Smile's intense live show blasting in a venue near you during this year...
Fatal Smile Are: Mr. Y - Guitars; Blade - Vocals; Alx - Bass; Philty - Drums / www.fatalsmile.com.
HERMAN BACK IN CALIFORNIA:
Legendary Scorpions drummer Herman Ze German on tour in California March 3-9, 2012 - Herman Ze German And The Fatal Sting, plus special guest Living Eden will be in concert on March 8, 2012 at the historic Tower Theater in Fresno, CA. Herman Ze German hits hard with a killer set of Scorpions classics and a few new songs. The concert will be filmed for a upcoming episode on the History Channel! HZG Includes Herman - Drums (Scorpions) / Duke Jackson - Lead Guitar (Strikeforce, Hzg) / Gus Monsanto - Vocals / Gary Omerea - Bass / Cory Whitehead - Guitar.
AUSTRALIA'S BLACK MAJESTY ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM TITLE:
Australian melodic power metal band Black Majesty have announced Stargazer as the title of their new album due in May 2012 through Limb Music Germany. Black Majesty began recording drums back in October 2011 with Roland Grapow (Masterplan) at Grapow Studios in Slovakia and have since been busy in their homeland Australia laying down guitars and vocals. Roland Grapow will mix the cd in the coming months. Black Majesty have already been confirmed for Masters of Rock Czech Republic 2012 alongside Thin Lizzy, Exodus, Stratovarius, Edguy, Kamelot, Sabaton, Gotthard, Arch Enemy, Within Temptation, Firewind, Bloodbound and Arakain amongst others.
WebLinks: www.blackmajesty.com / www.myspace.com/blackmajesty / www.limb-music.de.
JETHRO TULL'S IAN ANDERSON TO RELEASE 'THICK AS A BRICK 2':
Anderson Announces 40th Anniversary Sequel to the Hugely Successful, Groundbreaking 1972 Album
London, England - February 1, 2012 - Following the recent announcement of a 19-date tour to commemorate the 40th anniversary of 'Thick As A Brick,' on April 2nd (April 3rd in North America) Ian Anderson will release a sequel to the original album.
In 1972, Ian Anderson wrote and recorded the Jethro Tull Progressive Rock classic album 'Thick As A Brick.' The lyrics were credited at the time to the fictitious child character, Gerald Bostock, whose parents supposedly lied about his age. The record instantly became a number one Billboard Chart album and enjoyed considerable success in many countries of the world. So, forty years on, what would Gerald Bostock - aged fifty in 2012 - be doing today? What might have befallen him? The anniversary 'part two'¯ album will examine the possible different paths that the precocious young schoolboy, Gerald Bostock, might have taken later in life through alter-ego characters with song-section identities illustrating the hugely varied potential twists and turns of fate and opportunity. Not just for Gerald but to echo how our own lives develop, change direction and ultimately conclude through chance encounters and interventions, however tiny and insignificant they might seem at the time.
Ian Anderson says of the album, 'As we baby-boomers look back on our own lives, we must often feel an occasional 'what-if' moment. Might we, like Gerald, have become instead preacher, soldier, down-and-out, shopkeeper or finance tycoon?'¯ Adding, 'And those of more tender years - the social media and internet generation - may choose to ponder well the myriad of chance possibilities ahead of them at every turn.....'
To coincide with this ground-breaking release, for the first time since 1972, Anderson and fellow musicians John O'Hara (keyboards), David Goodier (bass), Florian Opahle (guitar) and Scott Hammond (drums) - as well as some guest performers - will take to the road to perform the album in its entirety and, it can now exclusively be revealed that, in addition, there will be a second part to the show where Anderson and the band will also perform the sequel.
Thick As A Brick 2 ('TAAB2') tracklist [CD, digital] 1. From A Pebble Thrown 2. Pebbles Instrumental 3. Might-have-beens 4. Upper Sixth Loan Shark 5. Banker Bets, Banker Wins 6. Swing It Far 7. Adrift And Dumfounded 8. Old School Song 9. Wootton Bassett Town 10. Power And Spirit 11. Give Till It Hurts 12. Cosy Corner 13. Shunt And Shuffle 14. A Change Of Horses 15. Confessional 16. Kismet In Suburbia 17. What-ifs, Maybes And Might-have-beens.
'Thick As A Brick 2' will be released as a standard jewel case CD and digital download, and in a Special Edition 2-disc package with DVD featuring 5.1 stereo mixes, 24-bit stereo mix, video of the making of the album, interviews with the musicians and Ian Anderson reading the lyrics in various locations.
After 44 years of leading Tull to 54 countries worldwide and over 60 million albums sold, Ian Anderson celebrates a true progressive rock classic with old and new fans across the UK for a whole three weeks. Anderson is known as the flute and voice of the legendary Jethro Tull, formed in the North of England in 1968 from the amalgamation of blues-based John Evan Band and McGregor's Engine. Since their first performance at London's famous Marquee Club in 1968, the band has released 30 studio and live albums and earned a prominent place in rock history.
The official Jethro Tull website: www.jethrotull.com and please visit: stcleve.com.
WILL WALLNER & VIVIEN VAIN RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM AND MUSIC VIDEO:
Los Angeles based hard rock artists Will Wallner (Guitarist) & Vivien Vain (Vocalist) have released their debut album featuring guest musicians including Carmine Appice, Vinny Appice, Brian Tichy, Rudy Sarzo, Tony Franklin, Jimmy Bain, Derek Sherinian and Tony Carey. The album is available worldwide via digital download and special edition CD's can be purchased from their official website. The album was recorded in Los Angeles throughout 2011 and mixed by Gary Tole in New York. Mastering was completed in September 2011 by Graham Goldman at Masterdisk.
Will Wallner and Vivien Vain came to America from Europe. Upon meeting they discovered they shared similar musical tastes and began writing songs together. The concept for their music was to write hard rock songs that they could be proud of as artists ignoring current trends. After a year of performing in Los Angeles they had a chance meeting with Carmine Appice and Vinny Appice at the Rainbow Bar & Grill on the Sunset Strip in 2010. After sending them demos of their songs the Appice brothers agreed to perform drums for their debut album. Since that first meeting the project evolved featuring several other guest session musicians with Will Wallner and Vivien Vain performing all guitars and vocals respectively. Their debut features nine original songs written and produced by Wallner/Vain.
The album cover features Wallner/Vain photographed by Glen La Ferman. The video for the song 'Streets of Rage' was produced in Hollywood. Wallner/Vain will announce live dates to promote their album release in the next couple of months.
For more information go to www.wallnervain.com. Music video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=jB0V0I58zKk.
Soul Sign's debut album Life In The Dark, which was digitally released in the fall of 2011, is now physically available on CD via Amazon.com, in stores worldwide via Super D, in Europe through InAndOutRecords, in US/WorldWide through cdUniverse and soon in Scandinavia through Ginza.se! The band line-up features current Malmsteen/MacAlpine bassist Bjorn Englen, Leatherwolf vocalist Michael Olivieri, Player/Seal guitarist Rob Math and McAuley drummer Mike Taylor.
Wednesday, February 01, 2012
EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT TO RELEASE STYX: THE GRAND ILLUSION/PIECES OF EIGHT LIVE:
Out Now - Two of the most beloved albums in the Styx catalog are 1977's The Grand Illusion and 1978's Pieces Of Eight. Now, Eagle Rock Entertainment will release Styx: The Grand Illusion/Pieces Of Eight Live on DVD, Blu-Ray, and DVD/2CD on January 31. This show was recorded November 9, 2010 at the historic Orpheum Theater in Memphis, Tennessee, on the tour that saw them perform both these albums in their entirety for the first time.
This 20-song two-hour and 11-minute presentation features stunning high-definition visuals accenting the complex musical arrangements recorded in DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Digital 5.1, and LPCM Stereo. The staging of these two multi-platinum albums and the fevered response makes this concert a must for all Styx fans. The Grand Illusion/Pieces of Eight Live also includes the bonus feature “Putting On The Show,” an inside look at the people and equipment needed to stage such a massive spectacle.
Selling millions of records worldwide since their 1972 Chicago inception, Styx have branded themselves as one of the greatest American progressive rock bands. The current line-up consists of James “J.Y.” Young (vocals, guitars, keyboards); Tommy Shaw (vocals, guitars); Todd Sucherman (drums); Lawrence Gowan (vocals, keyboards); Ricky Phillips (bass, backing vocals) and Chuck Panozzo (bass guitar).
TRACK LISTING: 1) Intro/1978 2) The Grand Illusion 3) Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man) 4) Superstars 5) Keyboard Interlude 6) Come Sail Away 7) Miss America 8) Man In The Wilderness 9) Castle Walls 10) The Grand Finale 11) Great White Hope 12) I'm O.K. 13) Sing For The Day 14) The Message 15) Lords Of The Ring 16) Blue Collar Man (Long Nights) 17) Queen Of Spades 18) Renegade 19) Keyboard Interlude 20) Pieces Of Eight 21) Aku-Aku.
STYX are out on tour:
1.26.12 - Santa Cruz, CA - Chumash Casino
1.27.12 - Temecula, CA - Pechanga Resort & Casino
1.28.12 - Reno, NV - Silver Legacy Casino
2.3.12 - Tacoma, WA - Emerald Queen Casino
2.4.12 - Coquitlam, BC - Red Robinson Show Theatre
2.10.12 - Henderson, NV - Green valley Ranch Events Center
2.10.12 - Wendover, NV - Peppermill Concert Hall
3.2.12 - Mt. Pleasant, MI - Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort
3.9.12 - Miami, FL - Magic City Casino Amphitheater
3.10.12 - Silver Springs, FL - Twin Oaks Amphitheater
TED POLEY WORLD TOUR DATES 2012:
The ever energetic Ted Poley has announced the following solo tour dates - more of which are to come and will be posted in due course:
Feb 17 - Madrid Spain Sala Copérnico
Feb 18 - Lisbon Portugal Bbc
Feb 25-28 Monsters Of Rock Cruise-Keywest FL & Bahamas
March 17 - Mexico City Mexico Rock And Road Pool Bar
August 9 - Stockholm Sweden Harry B James
August 10 - Vaxjo Sweden Club Dirty Harry
August 11 - Skogsrojet Festival (W Alice Cooper,Kingdom Come,More) Sweden
Dec 1 - Clifton NJ Dingbatz TP Annual Holiday Bash
CLASSIC ROCK REVISITED.COM EDITOR JEB WRIGHT UNLEASHES 'ROCK ICONS & METAL GODS':
1/30/2012 - Arkansas City, Kansas - Classic Rock Revisited.com has become the ultimate online destination for fans of classic hard rock music. Since opening their virtual doors in 1999, CRR has published hundreds of interviews with platinum selling rock stars all the while keeping the average rock fan up to date with CD, DVD and Concert Reviews and daily rock news. Founder, CEO and Editor Jeb Wright has now cracked open the doors to his interview vault and blown the dust off of his favorite interviews of all time and put them in one collection.
There are some real gems that can only be found in Rock Icons & Metal Gods. The book features three never before in print interviews with Ozzy Osbourne, Jon Anderson of Yes fame and Jason Bonham, son of legendary Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham. In addition to these highlights are several pages from Boston mastermind Tom Scholz that are exclusive to Rock Icons & Metal Gods in which Scholz discusses Boston's greatest hits. The rest of the interviews represent a look back through the history of Classic Rock Revisited and feature interviews with the pantheon of Rock Icons & Metal Gods.
The Rock Icons in the book consist of interviews with Sammy Hagar, Michael Anthony of Chickenfoot, Steve Perry of Journey, Steve Miller, Paul Rodgers of Free, Bad Company and The Firm, Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick, Tom Hamilton of Aerosmith, Tom Scholz of Boston, George Thorogood, Tommy Shaw of Styx, Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon, Alan Parsons and Jon Anderson of Yes. The Metal Gods contained in the book are Rob Halford of Judas Priest, Ozzy Osbourne, Bill Ward of Black Sabbath, Bob Daisley of Ozzy and Rainbow fame, Lemmy Kilmister of Motorhead, Jason Bonham, Ex-Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Di'Anno, the late Ronnie James Dio, Blackie Lawless of WASP, Ian Gillan of Deep Purple, Marc Storace of Krokus and Lita Ford.
Photographs for Rock Icons & Metal Gods, as well as the cover design, were done by legendary rock n' roll photographer Mark Weiss of Circus Magazine fame. Prints of Mark's work can be purchased at www.weissguygallery.com.
Rock Icons & Metal Gods is such a great book that it includes two forwards! One by world renowned rock journalist Martin Popoff and the other by Wrights' friends in rock, and his first ever interview, Roger Earl of Foghat.
Here is what others are saying about Rock Icons & Metal Gods author Jeb Wright:
"I always enjoy talking to a fellow lover of all things classic rock, and someone who shares such a passion for music. Jeb and Classic Rock Revisited.com have always been supportive of my projects and I enjoy the site as a great resource for much of the music I love." - Eddie Trunk, Host/Co-Producer "That Metal Show" VH1 Classic
"The treasure trove this book offers rock and metal fans the chance to mine is solid gold, from the stars to the substance contained within his interviews, we were proud to publish this collection of material I know will be a hit with music fans everywhere!" - Jake Brown, Publisher Rock N Roll Books
"I've known Jeb Wright for a while now and have enjoyed our conversations over the years. His questions, although sometimes piercing, are extremely insightful and bring out the very best in an interview." - Bill Ward, Black Sabbath
"At a time when the genre was almost universally panned by journalists all over the country, Jeb's web site was the lone bastion of support for our music. At first I wasn't sure. Who was this vintage rebel? But as time passed and we talked a bit, and hung out backstage a few times, I got it. This Jeb dude and his Classic Rock Revisited were the genuine deal. At this point Jeb is part of the REO extended family, and he got there the old school way, just like the bands he loves, by hard work, persistence, and belief in his mission." - Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon Rock Icons & Metal Gods can be purchased online at Amazon.com here: www.amazon.com/Classic-Rock-Revisited-Presents-Vol/dp/0983471606/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1326474357&sr=8-1.
STIRLING ROAD RELEASE "WITHOUT YOU" PRODUCED BY KENNY SCOTT:
The melodic pop-rock duo of Sherry Michelle & Matthew Shad, which make up Stirling Road, have just released their new single "Without You". The track was recorded at 18 Below by Hit Artist/Songwriter/Producer Kenny Scott (Swirl 360).
Says Shad, "Kenny has really modernized our sound and helped us fine tune the direction we want to go in. Co-writing the track with him was such a pleasure. Sherry & I truly enjoyed recording at 18 Below. Kenny even joined us and sang harmony on the track."
"Without You" will be part of an upcoming EP produced by Scott and scheduled for a summer release. You can download "Without You" on iTunes at: itunes.apple.com/us/album/without-you-single/id499039073.
WebLink: www.facebook.com/pages/Stirling-Road/273862475792.
ISSUE 43 Digital Download Available now. Fireworks/MelodicRock Showcase online.
Issue 43 Full Details + Free MP3s:Fireworks Showcase 43 Interviews with: Mr. Big, Heaven & Hell, Michael Monroe, Alter Bridge, Status Quo, Nelson, King X. Eloy, Huey Lewis, Stone Sour, Yngwie Malmsteen, Richard Marx, The Poodles, Paul Gilbert, Murederdolls, Taking Dawn, Poison Sun, Tank, Phenomena, Transatlantic, Line of Fire, Gravedigger
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