News From Vintage Guitar

"Rock to Roll" Charity Event Set for December 3

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The fourth annual "Rock to Roll" charity event spearheaded by SideOneDummy Co-Founder Joe Sib is happening this year at Slim's in San Francisco December 3. The event will directly benefit the non-profit organization UCP Wheels for Humanity. Headlining the event this year is NOFX. It is estimated that more than 100 million children and adults worldwide need wheelchairs and do not have them either due to lack of access, lack of money, or both. Their lack of mobility stems from accidents, birth defects, war injuries, debilitating diseases, aging, natural disasters and land mines. To address this need, UCP Wheels for Humanity begins with volunteers collecting over 230,000 pounds of discarded wheelchairs and wheelchair parts each year from around the U.S. Since a wheelchair in a developing country is an unimaginable luxury, Therapeutic seating specialists then deliver and individually fit the wheelchairs to disadvantaged children and adults free of charge. Since 1996, UCP Wheels for Humanity has helped over 44,000 children and adults living in the poorest of conditions, in developing countries such as Zimbabwe, Vietnam, Ukraine, Mexico, Mongolia, and many others. Last year, the concert at The Key Club in Hollywood raised $38,000 for UCP Wheels for Humanity. Combined Rock To Roll fund raising efforts have raised over $87,000 since the annual event began in 2006. The average wheelchair costs $150 to refurbish, which means Rock to Roll has directly improved the lives of roughly 580 individuals in need. This is the first year the event will take place in San Francisco. Tickets go on sale November 7. To volunteer, support, and learn more about UCP Wheels, go to ucpwfh.org

Douglas, Oates, O'Connell Prep "Jerry Christmas!" Tour

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Grammy-winning Dobro master Jerry Douglas will perform in select U.S. markets as he tours in support of his holiday album, Jerry Christmas!. Douglas will appear alongside guitarist John Oates and Grammy-nominated vocalist/actress Maura O'Connell. At the Foxboro Showcae, Aoife O'Donovan from Crooked Still will join the group, and Maura O'Connell will not perform that evening. The eloquent lyricism and dynamic virtuosity of Jerry Douglas, hailed by the New York Times as "the dobro's matchless contemporary master," is ideally suited to the creation of an Americana Christmas classic. And that's exactly what Jerry has produced: a spirited group of carols, traditional folk tunes, and modern seasonal songs. With a guest vocal by Maura O'Connell, Jerry Christmas! gets that warm, down-home holiday feeling just right from the first note to the last. "The thought of recording a Christmas project has been with me for some time, though I held the idea as a disquieting prospect. After all, these melodies have become established perennials due to the fact they are great songs; to do them disservice would be, to me, unforgivable," Douglas says. "I have tried being faithful to the original versions of these classics precisely because the melodies are so special. My instrument lends itself well, in an emotional sense, to performance of these treasures, allowing me to offer my interpretations of works I have heard sung by such definitive artists as Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, and Burl Ives." On the album, fellow musicians Todd Parks, Guthrie Trapp, Luke Bulla, and Doug Belote have conveyed their own expressive spirits via their individual instruments, and Maura O'Connell has lent her alluring voice to a melancholy new song ("New Years Eve"), rounding out this unique serving of these time honored holiday treats. Douglas has garnered twelve Grammy Awards and numerous International Bluegrass Music Association awards, and holds the distinction of being named "Musician of the Year" by The Country Music Association (2002, 2005, 2007), The Academy of Country Music (11 times), and The Americana Music Association (2002, 2003). In 2004, the National Endowment for The Arts honored Douglas with a National Heritage Fellowship, acknowledging his artistic excellence and contribution to the nation's traditional arts, their highest such accolade. In 2008, Douglas was named "Artist-In-Residence" at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, TN. The four-part music series featured Douglas alongside some of today's biggest country music stars including Trisha Yearwood, Garth Brooks, Alison Krauss, Travis Tritt, Emmylou Harris, Earl Scruggs, Ricky Skaggs, Bela Fleck, Sam Bush, Edgar Meyer, Guy Clark, Tony Rice, Lloyd Green, Jesse Winchester, and John Cowan. Douglas' musical brilliance has graced over 2,000 recordings by such distinguished artists as James Taylor, Paul Simon, Ray Charles, Lyle Lovett, Elvis Costello, Garth Brooks, Charlie Haden, Earl Scruggs, Phish, Emmylou Harris, Bill Frisell, The Chieftains, and the eight million-plus selling soundtrack to O Brother, Where Art Thou?. Since 1998, Douglas has been an inimitable member of Alison Krauss & Union Station, and over his career has been a featured player in such groundbreaking bands including The Country Gentlemen, J.D. Crowe & The New South, Boone Creek, and Strength in Numbers (of which both Sam Bush and Edgar Meyer were also members). While music aficionados have come to know the sound of Jerry Douglas from his stunning contributions to countless albums and concerts with other acclaimed artists, it is with his singular solo recording projects where he unabashedly unveils the elegance of his own songwriting and artistic virtuosity. See dates at jerrydouglas.com.

Danko Jones to Join GnR for Canadian Tour

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Danko Jones, who blew away the crowd with their salacious mix of punk and spoken word at the Viper Room in late September--return to Los Angeles December 9 for a show at The Troubadour. On December 3, they'll perform at the Hunnypot Radio & Chopperhead Magazine party at The Highlands in Hollywood; the show is free and open to the public. Next up in January, the group joins Guns N' Roses for a cross-country trek wrapping February 4. The powerful trio which SPIN magazine hailed as a "stunningly direct blues/hard rock/punk hybrid" (August 2009) are supporting the release of their new CD Never Too Loud, released September 8 via Bad Taste Records/Caroline. For the new album, the group - Danko Jones (lead vocals/guitars), John Calabrese (bass), Dan Cornelius (drums)--teamed with Grammy-winning producer Nick Raskulinecz (Rush, Foo Fighters, Coheed & Cambria, Stone Sour, Velvet Revolver). The band has been invited to perform the NHL post-game concert series for the Tampa Bay Lightning November 25 at the St. Pete Times Forum. The group's buzzed-about first single "Code of the Road" is featured on the Saw VI soundtrack (Trustkill Records). The song (about the endless ups and downs of touring) also can be heard in EA's new racing game Need for Speed: Nitro (available for Wii and Nintendo DS) as well as in commercials for the game in the U.K., France Austria and Switzerland. The video for "Code of the Road"-- featuring comedian Jim Florentine ("Crank Yankers," "That Metal Show") as the bus driver--is currently being shown daily in over 350 Harley-Davidson locations across the U.S. and at over 1000 sports clubs nationwide through ClubCom. Catch the raucous clip on FUSE TV's "On Demand" program The band will also appear in the forthcoming film Saxon Heavy Metal Thunder: The Movie, a documentary about British heavy metallers Saxon. The film includes appearances from Metallica's Lars Ulrich, Motorhead's Lemmy Kilmister, Fast Eddie Clarke and others. Read more at dankojones.com.

George Strait Sets Tour Dates

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The "King of Country" is back! 17x CMA Entertainer of the Year nominee George Strait will kick off his arena tour early next year and this time, he's bringing along one very special lady - Reba McEntire. The superstar acts performed together for the first time in many years for a sold-out crowd at the Cowboy's Stadium inaugural event in Dallas. Selling out in less than an hour, fans and critics proclaimed the show one hot ticket! The concert was hailed by the Dallas Morning News as "an extravaganza" that "showcased Strait at the pinnacle of his musical game" and Ft. Worth Star Telegram wrote "Reba McEntire's performance was a breathtaking master's class in effortless brilliance." With 57 number one hits, 33 multi-platinum albums and countless sold-out shows year after year, Strait who holds the record for the most CMA wins and a record 17 CMA Entertainer of the Year nominations, is known for giving fans exactly what they want and expect. This year will be no exception. "I can't wait to get back out there and perform some of my new favorites from Twang along with hits the fans already love," says Strait. "And with my friend Reba, we will make it a really spectacular night." Strait's recent release Twang debuted at #1 on The Billboard 200 and the Top Country Albums chart. This is the fourth time in Strait's career that a new release has debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and the 13th time debuting at #1 on the Top Country Albums chart. It has become a critically acclaimed album and received rave reviews in USA Today, Entertainment Weekly, People, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Houston Chronicle, The Dallas Morning News, The Boston Globe, Billboard and many more. Strait co-wrote three songs on Twang including the debut single, "Living for the Night." The current single and title track of the album sits at #22 on Billboard and Mediabase/Country Aircheck chart. At last year's CMA Awards, George became the artist with the most CMA Awards in history with Album of the Year for Troubadour and Single of the Year for "I Saw God Today." He adds 4 nominations this year with nods for "Entertainer of the Year," "Male Vocalist of the Year," "Video of the Year" for "Troubadour" and "Vocal Event of the Year" for "Everything But Quits" with LeeAnn Womack. His platinum-selling Troubadour was named "Best Country Album" at the 51st Grammy Awards and in April, Strait was the fifth artist ever to receive the Academy of Country Music's Artist of the Decade honor. Strait has won 19 Academy of Country Music Awards including "Entertainer of the Year." With a career spanning more than 25 years, Strait has the most number one singles of any artist in history including Elvis (57 To Date). He has sold more than 67 million records and with 33 different platinum or multi-platinum albums has the most RIAA platinum certifications in country music and the third in all genres, behind The Beatles and Elvis Presley. One of the most successful female recording artists in history, Reba has sold over 55 million albums worldwide, earned 33 #1 singles and was recently recognized as the biggest female hit-maker in country music history by "Billboard," "Mediabase" and "Country Aircheck." She is the winner of 15 American Music Awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards, 9 People's Choice Awards, 7 Country Music Awards and 2 GRAMMY Awards. Reba's new album, Keep On Loving You, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart - her first solo studio album to do so. With 11 #1 albums, Reba holds the record as the female artist with the most #1 albums in the history of the Billboard Top Country Albums chart. The superstar also recently scored her third consecutive Top 10 single of 2009, as her new song "Consider Me Gone" jumped into the Top 10 this week on both the Billboard Country Singles and the USA Today/ Country Aircheck Chart powered by Mediabase) charts.

Lost Fingers Announce Release Date

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Lost Fingers vupcoming debut album, Lost In The 80's, has the Canadian trio delivers a raucous rollercoaster of new memoires from hits that define the musical highpoints of the '80s - in a unique, original and simply unforgettable performance. The Lost Fingers captivate audiences everywhere they go with their witty and jazzed-up renditions of nostalgic hits by the likes of AC/DC, Stevie Wonder, Technotronic, Bon Jovi, Michael Jackson, George Michael, Samantha Fox, and Céline Dion. After scoring a massive hit with the album in their native country and being crowned the undisputed new stars of the Montreal Jazz festival, The Lost Fingers new album will finally be available digitally beginning on November 10. Lost In The 80's has already achieved platinum+ status in Canada (over 130,000 units), and the band was nominated for two Juno Awards this year. They continue to charm and conquer territories beyond its borders with their tremendously fun live show. Taking their name from legendary gypsy-jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt who suffered from a horrific, accidental caravan fire that resulted in the loss of use of both the 3rd and 4th fingers of his left hand, The Lost Fingers perform these 80's songs in a style that would have fit in perfectly with the hot jazz bands of the 30's. Upon meeting at the Quebec Conservatory of Music in 1994, Byron Mikaloff and Christian Roberge, quickly became friends who would continue to collaborate on several music projects. After several years of playing as a musical duo, the two friends founded The Lost Fingers in 2004. In an attempt to further develop and continuously innovate, they summoned the young and talented Alex Morissette (bassist) in 2006 to "jazz up their swing." By exercising great musicianship along with a keen sense of humor, the trio unanimously decided to unite their unique voices to create an ingenious tribute to the 80's in the swinging gypsy style of 'jazz manouche'. On top of the digital release, fans will also be able to purchase ringtones for four tracks from the album: "Pump Up The Jam," "You Give Love A Bad Name," Billie Jean," and "Joe Le Taxi." The Lost Fingers are planning a full U.S. tour in support ofLost In The 80's for February 2010. Details to follow soon.

Slik Helvetika Return

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The roaring sounds of vintage metal blended with modern rock are on display throughout Hafnium - the third release overall by the Pennsylvania-based outfit, Slik Helvetika, and their new video, for the lead-off single, "Wide." "..And now the science paper: Hf/Hafnium is within a periodic element group of science that has some unique characteristics regarding molecular structure, occasional radioactivity and sorts of morphing states," explains Slik Helvetika's singer/guitarist Mikhall Myers. "It's discovery, and the studies of it's properties challenged Albert Einstein and top scientists to start thinking in new directions about alternate universes and incorporating further theorization on life and death states, and continually questioning, "What is time?" The HAFNIUM concept also tied in with some overwhelming feelings I felt when I lost my father - [which is what the title track is about]. It seemed as though his energies were within me as much, or more than when he was alive, hence the mark we leave on time stays here strong even after we are gone. So, do we really go away at all, or are we still existing in each past moment individually and situations we created in this consciousness as we know it? Is that possibly what a ghost is? Do we really ever die or are we still existing in a different plane of consciousness and could this be what religion calls heaven? How's that for a heavy element?!" Myers also offered to discuss the background of their new ass- kicking video clip. "What is 'Wide' about? I was on some nutso sick adrenaline rush roller coaster, and I noticed most people were shitting their pants and had their eyes closed when it got to be too much, and I my eyes got wider open the crazier the ride got. Same is life. When you live on the edge there is a fine line between living at the max and capsizing. This song seemed to capture both the diabolical over the top energy as well as the whole catchy anthem motif. Shot at Mik's house, so he couldn't be late for the shoot!" While Myers is the group's undisputed leader, he is joined in the band by two other rock steady musicians, bassist Kjell Benner and drummer Mark [Truk] Bennett, both of which provide a killer rhythm section to Myers' red hot guitar work. Myers:"Hafnium really showcases the band with way more mature songwriting, and with more diversity - without sounding like a different band. It features different grooves, a broader selection of instrumentation, and more soul. The debut was a lot more like driving '80s metal melody and ripping guitars 24/7." And how does Myers feel Slik Helvetika fit in with the modern metal scene? "Slik Hel's music has that cool bottom-end groove and rhythm that a lot of the new metal features.but merges a lot of the melody from the '70s, '80s, and '90s that some people are starting to miss. We don't rap or cookie monster growl through all the verses and wait for the chorus for the hook...we're giving you melody and energy through the whole song." This is especially evident on such standout tracks as "Burnt" and "Heal Me," while Myers has a few personal favorites. "We have to really like the songs for them to be on the album to start with, so these are our favorite 10 out of 20. But if I have to pick some, "Money Tree," because it grabs you right away with hooks everywhere. It comes off a lot heavier and guttural when we play it live - it's about sex and if you are gonna be cheesy, this is the way to do it! "Hafnium" was a favorite right away - it is an epic song and gut wrenchingly emotional for me, since it's written about losing my father and it seems to translate to the listener as well. Also, fan reaction to "Reign" during the shows leads me to believe it is a favorite among listeners." And it shouldn't be long until fans can experience Slik Helvetika live on a concert stage, as their plan for world domination is to play "As many festivals, tours, and shows as we can get." With the release ofHafnium'Slik Helvetika gives this scientific structure a whole new meaning of heavy. Learn more at slikhelvetika.com

Guitar Hanger Launches

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Guitar Hanger gives you quick and easy access to your instrument while also protecting it from potential harm and theft. The Guitar Hanger allows you to store your instrument anywhere with a closet rod or hook, and by utilizing our non-mechanical locking yoke, The Guitar Hanger securely holds your guitar in place. It is the next step in easily storing and accessing your guitar. Learn more at theguitarhanger.com.

Kenny Rogers "Christmas & Hits" Tour Returns

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and that means music legend Kenny Rogers will once again be embarking on his highly acclaimed annual holiday tour, bringing his exceptional talent and signature sound to stages across America. The 2009 edition of the Kenny Rogers Christmas & Hits Tour featuring Rebecca Lynn Howard will launch on November 27th in Bossier City, LA at the Horseshoe Casino Riverdome. The 20-city tour will wrap two days before Christmas on December 23rd in Westbury, NY at The Capital One Bank Theatre at Westbury. Rogers' annual Christmas Tour has become tradition over the course of the artist's storied career. Always a highly anticipated treat for the whole family, the production will feature performances of heart warming traditional and original holiday songs from Rogers - many that can be found on his numerous holiday recordings - such as "Let It Snow" "White Christmas" and "O Holy Night" as only the Grammy Award-winning artist can deliver, with the help of local choirs and children chosen to be part of the production in each city. Rogers will also perform classics such as "The Gambler," "Lady," "Islands In The Stream," "Lucille," and "Ruby, Don't Take Your Love To Town." "I've always loved this season," remarked Rogers. "I think because people in general, are truly different. Look around...they smile more, they're more gracious, and generally seem happier. It's funny how things in your life change as you get older - especially when you have children. All the things that seemed so important before, somehow no longer matter, and those that once felt so trivial, now are the only things that count. My house, for instance, has been decorated for the holidays since before Halloween, so to say my family is 'In The Spirit Of The Season' is a bit of an understatement! I promise you the holidays will never be the same for me. And so I say to you, have yourself a Merry, Merry Christmas and know that I wish for you, what I wish for myself - that you spend this and every holiday season with those you love the most." This year's Kenny Rogers Christmas & Hits Tour will be sponsored by World Vision, the Christian humanitarian organization that is working in nearly 100 countries to serve the poor and those in need. "We are honored to be sponsoring the Kenny Rogers Christmas & Hits Tour this season. It is a tremendous opportunity to be working closely with such a legendary artist as we join forces together to help children and their families around the world," says Jenny Lockwald, World Vision's Executive Director for Artist Associates & Sponsor Engagement. A beloved, universally-known icon of American entertainment, Kenny Rogers is a living legend with an extensive history of success, including 20 platinum, 26 gold records and a Diamond-certified Greatest Hits album that has sold more than 24 million copies worldwide. In the span of nearly five decades, Kenny Rogers has recorded 65 albums, which have sold more than 105 million units worldwide. Rogers is the only artist to chart a record in each of the last six decades and has three Grammy Awards, five Country Music Association Awards, 18 American Music Awards, eight Academy of Country Music Awards and 11 People's Choice Awards. He's also ranked #8 on the R.I.A.A.'s list of Top Selling Male Artists of all time. For the latest news and tour updates, visit kennyrogers.com.

Spector Launches Forte Line

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Spector's new Forte basses are handcrafted in New York and have; • Spector NS curved body style • Forte4: 34" scale, Forte5 35" scale • Graphite Reinforced 3pc Neck-Thru Rock Maple Neck, 24 Fret Pau Ferro Fingerboard, no fingerboard inlays. • Black Hardware: Spector locking bridge, Dunlop Dual Design strap buttons • Aguilar OBP-2 active tone controls • EMG active pickups (P/J Forte4, 40DC Forte5) • Master volume and pickup balance controls • Finish: Matte Black Stain Learn more at spectorbass.com.

Gilmour-Produced Unicorn Albums See The Light

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pink Floyd fanatics rejoice with the first time release of two rare David-Gilmour-produced albums by UK country rock band Unicorn! The CDs Blue Pine Trees and Too Many Crooks will be released by premier reissue label Renaissance Records in conjunction with ItsAboutMusic.com on November 11th. When you think of 'country rock' band's like Firefall, Pure Praire League, Poco, Flying Burrito Bros probably come to mind first, but one band that could well be called the godfathers of the genre actually came from England. The meeting between Unicorn and Pink Floyd's renown guitarist is a curious one. Early in 1973 Unicorn played at the wedding reception for Transatlantic publicist Ricky Hopper. One of the guests was David Gilmour of Pink Floyd, who at the end of the evening got up and jammed with Unicorn on Neil Young's "Heart of Gold". Afterwards Gilmour told the band that he really liked Country Rock. A week later the Pink Floyd guitarist phoned the band to say that he had just installed a studio at his country retreat and asked if they wanted to demo some songs there. The band immediately accepted. A few days later they travelled up to Essex to Gilmour's estate. He showed them into the studio and said there was no need to bring any of their gear in from the van. Hanging on the walls was his collection of vintage Fender, Gibson, Rickenbacker and Martin guitars and underneath them Fender amplifiers and a Premier drum kit. They recorded three songs and Dave added some Fender Pedal Steel Guitar which he had just brought on his last American tour and was learning to play. They were invited back on several occasions to record. "Unicorn were playing at the wedding reception of an old friend of mine, Rick Hopper," related David Gilmour, "when I first saw them and while I was impressed by their vocal harmonies, their tightness and the fact that it was the drummer that sang the lead vocals, it was the songs themselves that I liked the best. Ken Baker's songs, while firmly seated in the American country rock genre had a very original and unusual wry English feel in the stories he told. The one that really made me notice was 'Sleep Song', about a trip to the dentist. Not a common subject for the popular song. Largely on the strength of this I invited them to my tiny home studio in Essex to record some demos. This was the start of an association that was to cover two and a half albums over the next couple of years." Things started to happen from then on when Gilmour offered to put up the money to record an album of Unicorn songs. Unicorn soon signed with Pink Floyds manager Steve O'Rourke's EMKA organization, and Ricky Hopper who had introduced them to Dave became their tour manager. Ricky would later discover Kate Bush, then called Kathy Bush. Pete and Pat from Unicorn played on her first demo recordings at Gilmour's studio. Unicorn's first album was recorded in Olympic Studios in Barnes in London. David Gilmour was producing, by his own admission, for the first time. The performances would wind up as the album 'Blue Pine Trees' and parts of the second album Too Many Crooks. The album was mixed at George Martin's Air Studios in London. The engineer was John Middleton and the tape operators were the sons of Spike Milligan and Peter Sellers. Steve O'Rourke took about a week to secure a deal with Charisma Records in the UK, with Capitol Records in the US and EMI International for the rest of the world. In November 1974 Unicorn set off on their first US tour. At the time Capitol records tour manager, Alan Fry, told them that Blue Pine Trees was number one in the FM action charts (a chart based on the frequency of FM airplay). The first night Unicorn performed at the Whiskey a Go Go on Sunset Strip, where they played in front of what seemed to be the entire Capitol Records staff. Unicorn was the headline band that night and was supported by, a then little known, Patti Smith. On that first tour the band supported bands like Fleetwood Mac, Manfred Mann's Earth Band, Climax Blues Band, Billy Joel, Linda Ronstadt and the Doobie Brothers. At the end of their first US tour Unicorn flew home via New York to return to play at the Marquee club in London with the Sutherland Brothers and Quiver with David Gilmour sitting in. The following year, 1975, was mainly spent recording the second album Too Many Crooks (Released in America as Unicorn 2). It was recorded in Air Studios at Oxford Circus with some additional tracks at Olympic at Barnes. This album included some of Unicorn's best studio performances. The most notable song was "No Way Out of Here" which was later recorded by Dave Gilmour for his first solo album. His version was the most played album track in the US for several weeks. "Listening to the best of their output from before, during and after my own involvement with the band," says Gilmour, "has reminded me of the many great songs and great moments in the studio that we shared all those years ago. It's been a long time coming, but it has been worth the wait." Unicorn - Blue Pine Trees, Too Many Crooks (prod. by David Gilmour), will be available from Amazon, iTunes and your local retailer on November 10th. Other titles scheduled for release by Renaissance Records include Graham Parker &The Rumour Live In San Francisco 1979, Network - s/t and Nightwork, Duke Jupiter White Knuckle Ride, Fran King My Sweet Elixir, City Boy It's Personal, Phoenix - s/t and In Full View (ex-Argent), Nick Gravenites Bluestar, and Roxy Music Manifesto Alive (live 1979).

Band of Heathens on "Austin City Limits" with Elvis Costello

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Band of Heathens, whose new album One Foot in the Ether the web 'zine AmericanaRoots.com ponders as "the best record of 2009," will appear on PBS' Austin City Limits on November 7 on a bill headlined by Elvis Costello. On the program, the band performs five songs: "Jackson Station," "L.A. County Blues," "Shine a Light," "Golden Calf" and "You're Gonna Miss Me When I'm Gone." Austin City Limits celebrates its 35th season this year and is the longest running music series in American TV history -- the show was recently named a landmark by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Other artists on tap this season include Kenny Chesney, Dave Matthews, Pearl Jam, Ben Harper, M. Ward, Asleep at the Wheel, Andrew Bird and Steve Earle. Although both the Band of Heathens and the producers of Austin City Limits are based in Austin, ACL executive producer Terry Lickona first saw the band while in Nashville for the 2008 Americana Music Festival and Conference. According to the Band of Heathens' Gordy Quist, "Playing the Austin City Limits show was the highlight of my career so far. To play the same iconic stage that I watched so many music legends play while I was growing up is staggering." Bandmate Ed Jurdi echoed, "The opportunity to perform on Austin City Limits on a stage where ghosts and contemporaries alike have poured their heart and soul into some of the greatest performances ever recorded, was a pure musical experience. The vibe and mojo of ACL is undeniable." With "tremendously gritty vocals and scything guitars" (Maverick Magazine), Austin's own Band of Heathens have created their own style of Americana music that is bringing them praise from across the nation. These purveyors of smart Southern/country rock are making their Austin City Limits debut. The band began to form in 2006, when the three principal songwriters, Colin Brooks, Ed Jurdi and Gordy Quist, were sharing the bill every Wednesday night at Austin's Momo's club. Originally, each performed his own set. But in a short time they started sharing the stage equally and collaborating on each other's songs. Largely improvised and unrehearsed, the shows quickly gained in popularity. "We thought of it as a side project for a long time," Quist said. "Eventually, it got to a point where the chemistry was undeniable." The Band of Heathens' first CD and DVD releases were live recordings that captured the media's attention. "Not many acts can pull off having three frontmen and three songwriters, but each band member's talent and style meld together seamlessly," wrote Lone Star Music Magazine. In 2008, the band released their first studio recording. The self-titled CD is a "real treat to country rock and roots rock connoisseurs with its blend of rich vocals, ballad and upbeat sides, and rootsy rhythms propelled by good musicians" (Jupiter Index). Vintage Guitar Magazine wrote with equal parts southern rock, '50s R&B, and Louisiana swamp-rock with a punkish swagger, they conjure a post-modern roots rock." In September 2009, the band followed up its studio debut album with One Foot in the Ether. Of the new album, Maverick wrote, "I could carry on raving about every track on the album, but instead I will just highly recommend that you go out and buy this fantastic album. Also make sure you try and get to see these guys in concert as soon as you can." Added the Chicago Sun-Times, "What makes these Heathens so refreshingly different is the overall musicianship and seamless blending of alt-rockers, folk tales, gutbucket blues and heartland anthems." SonicBoomers puts it into perspective: "The historical line here stretches back to Buffalo Springfield, Little Feat, the Subdudes and a bunch of other amazing American combos, all sharing the common characteristic of mixing their roots with inspiration from the outer limits. Which, really, is the whole point: how to start from scratch and eventually get into the ether, even if it's one foot at a time." "This one will certainly stand the test of time," sums up AmericanaRoots.com, "and so will the Band of Heathens. Austin City Limits: "Great Music. No Limits." Now the longest-running music series in American television history, ACL showcases popular music legends and innovators from every genre. In addition to being honored by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum as a rock and roll landmark, Austin City Limits is the only television program to ever receive the National Medal of Arts, the nation's highest award for artistic excellence. Broadcast in high-definition and 5.1-surround sound, the show is produced by KLRU-TV and airs on PBS stations nationwide.

Maroon 5 Kick Off Tour

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Maroon 5 is gearing up to kick off its nationwide college tou . The multi-city tour will launch at Murray State University in Kentucky and make eleven stops before wrapping in Kansas at the end of the month. Alternative rock band Guster will be making a special guest appearance on the tour Nov, 14th for the Bucknell University show. Maroon 5's college tour precludes the release of the group's new album, which is set for release in the spring of 2010. Earlier this summer the band announced that they have entered the studio with legendary producer Robert John "Mutt" Lange to record the follow-up to It Won't be Soon Before Long, their multi-platinum selling sophomore album. The quintessential pop-rock producer has produced blockbuster albums for acts like AC/DC, Def Leppard, Bryan Adams, The Cars, Shania Twain and Foreigner. "After spending the summer in the studio recording overseas, we are excited to be returning home and to the road this fall," said the band's frontman Adam Levine. "It's exciting for us to hit the stage again together and also get a chance to debut some of our new material that we've been recording for our fans." Capturing their first of 3 GRAMMY Awards as "Best New Artist" of 2005, and going on to sell more than fifteen million albums worldwide, Maroon 5 won over fans and critics alike with the hybrid rock/R&B sound they introduced on their debut album Songs About Jane. They followed up with the double platinum album, It Won't be Soon Before Long, that included hits like "Makes Me Wonder" and "If I Never See your Face Again." The band's releases have gone gold and platinum in over 35 countries around the world. Check out dates at maroon5.com.

Sugar Blue's Threshold Set for Release

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

"We have chosen the title Threshold because the tunes open new musical territory for us," says bluesman Sugar Blue of his new album, due out January 26, 2010 on Beeble Music. The album follows the acclaimed 2007 album Code Blue, which hinted at a widening musical path. In addition to Sugar Blue on harmonica and vocals, Threshold features guitarist Rico McFarland (Albert King, Otis Clay, Syl Johnson, James Cotton, Lucky Peterson); guitarist Moto Makino (Los Lobos); Noel Neal, bass; James Knowles, drums; and Ilaria Lantieri, bass; with guests Bill Dickens, the "Buddha of Bass" (Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Janet Jackson, George Michael, Jerry Harrison) and percussionist Samuel Torres (Pancho Sanchez, Tito Puente, Chick Corea, Pete Escovedo). The album, produced by Sugar Blue, was recorded in both Chicago and Tokyo. The nine original songs were co-written by Blue with Lantieri and Makino and range from blues to rock, funk, jazz and ballads. "Stop the War" is a cry for peace punctuated by Dickens' bass line. "Cotton Tree" is an homage to living blues harmonica legend James Cotton, mentor to Sugar Blue as well as hundreds of harp players worldwide. "Noel News" celebrates the strength of the people of New Orleans. "Ramblin'" is a duet featuring Blue on both harmonica and Chromonica, a bass harp. The album also contains two covers: "Messin' With the Kid" by Junior Wells and "Trouble," the Lieber & Stoller-penned Elvis Presley hit. A spoken interview with Blue finishes the CD. The Grammy Award-winning harmonica virtuoso was born James Whiting in Harlem, New York. Influenced by artists as diverse as Lester Young and Bob Dylan, Blue began his career playing on the streets, and later recorded with Brownie McGhee, Roosevelt Sykes and Victoria Spivey. He relocated to France on the advice of expatriate Memphis Slim, and while there hooked up with the Rolling Stones. In Chicago, Blue worked with and learned from harmonica legends Big Walter Horton, Carey Bell, James Cotton and Junior Wells. He played in the Chicago Blues All-Stars with friend and mentor Willie Dixon and contributed to Dixon's Grammy-winning 1988 album Hidden Charms. He sat in with Fats Domino, Ray Charles and Jerry Lee Lewis for the Cinemax special Fats Domino and Friends. And he appeared onscreen and in the musical score of Alan Parker's acclaimed 1987 thriller Angel Heart, starring Robert De Niro. Best known for his signature riff on the Rolling Stones' "Miss You," Blue performed his own version of the song on his 1993 Alligator Records album Blue Blazes. As to how the name Sugar Blue came to be, "I needed a nickname and all the good ones were taken -- Muddy Waters, Blind Lemon, Sonny Boy," Blue explains. "One night a friend and I were leaving a Doc Watson concert when somebody threw out of the window a box full of old 78s. I picked one up and it said 'Sugar Blues' by Sidney Bechet. That's it! I thought it was perfect. So here I am." Sugar Blue incorporates what he has learned into his visionary and singular style, technically dazzling yet wholly soulful. He bends, shakes and spills flurries of notes with simultaneous precision and abandon. And he sings too. His distinctive throat tends to be overlooked -- a rich voice with a whisper of huskiness. Of the Threshold album, Blue says, "I believe that the greatest threshold of all is love because it is the fount from which all human life springs. Life echoes the sounds of our interactions: joy, sadness, heartache, passion, loneliness, intimacy, celebration or solemn occasion. We have tried to give voice to these feelings in this musical offering."

String Cheese Incident releases Trick or Treat

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The String Cheese Incident has slowed its schedule considerably in recent years, but fans get a chance to relive the group's legendary "Hulaween" shows on the forthcoming live release, Trick or Treat. The two-disc release - set to hit today on CD, vinyl, and digitally - is culled from several of these epic shows by The String Cheese Incident. An expanded 9-disc deluxe box set edition of Trick or Treat will also be available in limited quantity featuring the Michael Everett cover art poster sheet, plus all 7 mini-posters from the box set. Known to perform special concerts comprised heavily of cover tunes each Halloween, Trick or Treat offers selections from SCI performances recorded at Atlanta's Variety Playhouse (1998), Philadelphia's Electric Factory (1999), Portland's State Theatre (2000), New York City (2001), Los Angeles' Shrine Auditorium (2002), Sin City's Cox Pavillion (2003), and Madison's Exhibition Center at Alliant Energy Center. The 9-disc limited edition box set of Trick or Treat includes seven complete sets - featuring must-hear renditions of Beatles ("Come Together"), Beastie Boys ("No Sleep Till Brooklyn"), Grateful Dead ("Shakedown Street"), KC & The Sunshine Band ("Get Down Tonight"), and Phish ("The Wedge") classics, among many others. The Trick or Treat deluxe box set also features signed & numbered original artwork from Michael Everett, special commemorative mini-posters from the Hulaween shows, personalized liner notes from the band, a photo booklet by famed rock photographer C. Taylor Crothers, and plenty of special surprises. Formed in Colorado during 1993, The String Cheese Incident has long been considered one of the leaders of the thriving "jam band" scene. Comprised of members Michael Kang (acoustic/electric mandolin, electric guitar, and violin), Michael Travis (drums and percussion), Bill Nershi (acoustic guitar, lap steel guitar, and electric slide guitar), Kyle Hollingsworth (piano, organ, Rhodes, and accordion), Keith Moseley (bass guitar), and Jason Hann (percussion, joined SCI in 2004), the group performed regularly between 1993-2007. And in the process, they built a large fanbase on the strength of their live show, as well as such classic releases as Outside Inside, Untying the Knot, and One Step Closer. In recent years, the band members have focused on solo projects, although The String Cheese Incident did reunite onstage this year for a show-stopping performance at the Rthbury Festival. Now, here's your chance to experience The String Cheese Incident in all their in-concert glory time and time again, with Trick or Treat. Learn more at stringcheeseincident.com.

Airbourne Announce No Guts, No Glory

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australian rockers Airbourne are pleased to announce No Guts, No Glory as the title of their second album for Roadrunner Records. The album is set for release on February 23, 2010. No Guts, No Glory was recorded in Chicago with noted producer Johnny K (Disturbed, 3 Doors Down, Staind). The band relocated from their shared home in Warrnambool and moved into K's spacious studio to record the album. Frontman Joel O'Keefe says, "Working with Johnny was great, he's one of the boys. We basically just set up all the gear, chucked a few mics around and went for it! Good times!" Brother and drummer Ryan confirms the precarious microphone placement, "With this album, we threw the mics all over the building, left the doors and windows open and pressed record!" Airbourne, known for their adrenalized, "work hard, play harder" style of rock, will embark on a two-month European tour in early February that will span two months and kick off with several UK dates. The band will commence US touring of major markets beginning in April. They will live on the road through the summer.

Grant Hart To Tour In Support Of "Hot Wax"

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Con D'or Records and MVD Audio are proud to announce the tour of Grant Hart in support of his latest release Hot Wax". '80s alternative rock has gone down in the history of music as one of the most fertile and influential musical movements ever - as judged by the amount of notable bands that would subsequently "follow the leaders." And one of the leading lights of the movement was unquestionably Hüsker Dü. After the group's split, drummer Grant Hart moved out front with guitar in hand, and also handled lead vocals on his solo releases. But Hart has spent the last few years working on Hot Wax". Joining Hart on the disc is a diverse cast of musicians from Godspeed You Black Emperor, Silver Mt. Zion, and Rank Strangers with the tracks being recorded in both Montreal and Minneapolis. Hart explains: "The song 'Narcissus, Narcissus' is my first attempt at combining ancient Greek mythology and American rock-a-billy. By merging those influences with an ice cream truck atmosphere I think I have found a style that defines this period of my career. 'You're the Reflection of the Moon on the Water' is one of the most organic rock and roll songs that I have ever written. It's style owes a lot to my devotion for Patti Smith. It was inspired by a comment made by a monk during the selection process to find the next Panchen Lhama, who said of one candidate, 'He is the reflection of the moon on the water but he is not the moon'." As a member of Hüsker Dü (which also included singer/guitarist Bod Mould and mustachioed bassist Greg Norton), Hart played on such all-time alt-rock classics as 1984's Zen Arcade and 1985's New Day Rising, while constantly criss-crossing the U.S. with legendary explosive live shows. Since Hüsker Dü's split in 1987, Hart has sporadically issued solo releases, and was also spotted as a member of the group Nova Mob. He has found a place and function in visual and dramatic art forms as well. Hot Wax" will be Grant's sixth solo release.

Lick Library Releases Zakk Wylde & Randy Rhoads The Solos

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Lick Library's Learn to Play - The Solos format now includes Zakk Wylde and Randy Rhoads. The design of the Learn to Play The Solos DVDs includes a CD of professionally recorded guitar jam backing tracks at three different speeds, slow, medium and full tempo, performances of the solos at three speeds, plus expert tuition which breaks the solos down into easy to learn sections. Zakk Wylde is best known for being Ozzy Osbourne's guitarist, founder of Black Label Society and lead guitarist and vocalist with Pride & Glory. He's won practically every guitar magazine award there is and has inspired guitarists of all styles. On stage with Ozzy, Zakk is regarded is one of the few guitarists still flying the flag for seriously shredded solos and high-energy performances full of passion. Randy Rhoads featured on Ozzy Osbourne's first two solo albums which have sold over six million copies combined. Often cited as an influence by many contemporary heavy metal guitarists, Randy Rhoads was one of the few guitarists of his era to create his own signature style by being one of the first heavy metal guitarists to incorporate classical music into his playing. Although he only issued a pair of major-label albums during his lifetime, he immediately reached legendary status upon his tragic death in early 1982 Learn to Play Zakk Wylde, The Solos is taught by professional guitar tutor Andy James, who was once lucky enough to jam with Zakk and Ozzy. The tuition DVD details five solos from classic tracks featured on the No Rest for the Wicked and No More Tears albums. This professionally produced, multi camera shot, guitar lesson breaks each solo down into clearly explained bite sized chunks, and is full of tips and techniques to help you get your playing up to speed. Watch and listen to demonstrations of pinched harmonics, alternate and hybrid picking and that heavy vibrato so indicative of a true Zakk Wylde style of playing. Solos taught on this DVD come from "Miracle Man," "Devils Daughter," "Breaking all the Rules," "No More Tears," and "Mama I'm Coming Home." Learn to Play Randy Rhoads, The Solos is presented by Danny Dill former pupil of Joe Satriani and writer of many of the songs featured in "The Osbournes" TV show. Danny invites you to pick a track and grab a guitar as he takes you through note for note demonstrations of five characteristic Randy Rhoads solos at three different tempos. The DVD format gives you plenty of time to understand what Danny is showing you, and the chapter keys allow you to repeat each section as many times as you need to nail that guitar riff or lick. Solos included come from the tracks "Goodbye to Romance," "Crazy Train," "Over the Mountain," "Flying Again" and "Mr. Crowley," all of which have become metal standards and showcase Randy Rhoads full talent as a guitarist.

Six String Bliss Announces Release of "Scales of Horror"

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Press Release for October 27, 2009 Worldwide Launch - Tuesday, October 27th, 2009 Six String Bliss, the longest-running guitar-centric Podcast on the Internet announces the release of Scales of Horror, a collaborative effort by members of their listening community. This project differs from the past Six String Bliss Albums in that it is comprised entirely of original, Halloween themed music written and performed by various listeners. Scales of Horror will feature 10 songs performed by an international community of artists, with submissions coming from 5 countries. Each of these submissions is the work of members of the Six String Bliss listening community. This is the fourth such project produced by Six String Bliss, the first being 2007's A Blissful Christmas, which was followed up last Fall with Stay Tuned (a collection of TV Themes), then this Spring with Big Screen Bliss (a collection of songs featured prominently in movies). According to PT, co-host of the Podcast: "We weren't sure what to expect when we requested original tracks from our listeners. But what they delivered was beyond our expectations. This album is a true testament to the talent of this community, and I'm sure it will be freaking out trick or treaters worldwide for years to come!" All guitarists are welcome to join in the fun of the Six String Bliss Forum. Projects like this will continue to thrive so long as there is an active community to make these happen. So please come by, introduce yourself, and join in the next project! Podcast Episode 169 which will feature Scales of Horror will be up on the RSS Feed (http://sixstringbliss.libsyn.com/rss) and on iTunes at 11:00PM (CDT) Tuesday, October 27th, with the show notes added to the website soon thereafter at www.sixstringbliss.com. About Six String Bliss Six String Bliss is the longest-running guitar-centric Podcast on the Internet. Co-hosted by guitarists PT and Pipes, the weekly show caters to players of all ages and abilities, and features segments including Email of the Week, Guitarist of the Week, Guitar News and general discussion of all things relating to the guitar. Interviews have featured internationally renowned guitarists as well as luthiers, store owners, and manufacturers of pickups, effects, and recording software. The website includes an active international forum.

Ratt Releasing Infestation

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Legendary hard rock icons Ratt announced today that Infestation will be the title of their next album, due out in March 2010 via Loud & Proud/Roadrunner Records. Infestation0 is the band's first studio album since 1999. The band, consisting of longtime members Stephen Pearcy, Warren DeMartini and Bobby Blotzer, new guitarist Carlos Cavazo (formerly of Quiet Riot) and Robbie Crane on bass, worked with producer Elvis Baskette (Chevelle, Incubus, Limp Bizkit). This collaboration marks the very first time in their storied career that RATT have recorded outside of Los Angeles. The band lived together at Elvis' Virginia studio while recording Infestation. Ratt have enjoyed a rich, impressive and certainly long-lasting legacy through the years, having made their mark in the 1980s with 5 consecutive multi-platinum albums, including Out of the Cellar, Invasion of Your Privacy and Dancing Undercover. With 1984's mega-platinum debut Out of the Cellar celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the band is looking forward to starting a new chapter with new music to complement the impressive legacy they have established over two-plus decades. Ratt will embark on a world tour in 2010.

The Mother Hips Release Pacific Dust

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Mother Hips have flown under the radar as true indie music pioneers for almost two decades. With the release of their new album Pacific Dust (available October 27th on Camera Records), California's unsung psych-pop heroes tell their story. Hailed by critics for their "rootsy mix of 70s rock and power pop" (pitchfork.com) and for their unflinching ability to "sing it sweet and play it dirty" (New Yorker), on Pacific Dust The Hips' signature sound rings more genuine and relevant than ever before. The Hips - led by co-founders Tim Bluhm (vocals/guitar) and Greg Loiacono (guitar/vocals) - have been playing music for nearly 18 years, and in the process, have had the luxury of exploring and refining their craft. For the band's seventh full-length studio album, The Mother Hips have never been more primed to share their well-traveled tales - the long days and nights on the road, the gritty politics, the smart inward reflections and man, the music! - all delivered with a most appealing balance of Americana storytelling and their California-burnished rock. Pacific Dust's compositions about penning a song in your kitchen at 3:00 am (the thundering album opener "White Falcon Fuzz"), record company politics (garage-rock boogie "Third Floor Story"), and a father and son's relationship through music (on the ballad "Young Charles Ives") indeed tell the story of many American rock bands. But here's why it matters: The Mother Hips have survived, and in fact thrived, throughout the journey - and Pacific Dust, with its bittersweet melodies, poignant lyrics, and strong and gritty musicianship, is a perfect example of why. The Mother Hips owe most of their success to their large and loyal fanbase. Earlier releases such as Part-Timer Goes Full, Green Hills of Earth, and Red Tandy have become almost cult classics among indie music buffs, and the band's most recent 2007 album, Kiss the Crystal Flake, offered proof that the band still continues to attract new supporters. Over the years, the band has worked with and played alongside a slew of renowned/respected colleagues including super-producer Rick Rubin, Wilco, Johnny Cash, and many others. Today, armed with their newest release Pacific Dust, The Hips are poised to take their experience and talent to another level for this next leg of their already epic journey. The band will tour this fall in support of Pacific Dust. Learn more at motherhips.com.

Pixies Slate Doolittle Tour

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Pixies - Black Francis, Kim Deal, Joey Santiago and David Lovering - have put together an imaginative and stunning production for their "Doolittle Tour," that kicks off its U.S. leg on Wednesday, November 4 with three shows at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles. The "Doolittle Tour" is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the release of the Pixies' classic 1989 album, Doolittle, with the band performing the album in its entirety plus its related B-sides. Myles Mangino, the Pixies long-time lighting designer, designed the production with designer Paul Normandale, and brought on filmmakers Judy Jacobs, Tom Winkler, Brent Felix, and Melinda Tupling to create 11 films especially for the tour. The films are projected onto a massive backdrop video screen to accompany 12 of the 21 songs that comprise the Pixies' "Doolittle" set. In addition, four huge, undulating, eyeball-like spheres are flown just below the lighting rig and become part of the concert's light show. As an example, visuals accompanying the song "Debaser" are from a compilation titled "Forbidden Images." The hauntingly beautiful black and white footage from the 1920s depicts the beginning of the women's rights moment, showing women's exuberant playfulness, femininity and sensuality. The footage, a little too progressive for that time period, was originally banned from theatres. For "Here Comes Your Man," a four-way split screen displays close up images of the band members dancing along to the song; "I Bleed" sees blood dripping down the screen in time to the music; "Hey" features hand-drawn animation of the song's lyrics by Hollywood animator Tom Winkler; clouds, black holes, and Mankind's arrogance destroying the Earth are the focus for "Monkey Gone to Heaven," while "La La Love You" is a humorous animated piece starring hearts with legs. Doolittle was the band's third album and includes classics such as "Debaser," "Wave of Mutilation," "Here Comes Your Man," "Hey," and "Gouge Away." The "Doolittle Tour" launched on September 30 in Dublin, Ireland, and played sold-out shows everywhere - Scotland, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, and to 20,000 fans over four nights in London. The "Doolittle Tour" has also received rave notices - five-star reviews in the [London] Times, the Guardian, and the Independent, which also said, "...no band has pulled off a one-album show as triumphantly as the Pixies did here with a 20th anniversary performance of their 1989 masterpiece Doolittle." The Boston-formed Pixies have been acclaimed as the most influential pioneering band of the late '80s alt/rock movement. Their five studio releases and six years together effectively blazed the path for groups like Nirvana, Radiohead, and Pearl Jam to rise to superstardom. They disbanded in 1993 and launched their reunion tour in April 2004 when virtually every, single date sold out within minutes and fans traveled hundreds of miles to attend a show. In post-Pixies years, Black Francis has enjoyed a successful solo career as Frank Black, Kim Deal went on to form the Platinum-selling band the Breeders, Joey Santiago started the band The Martinis and has carved a career as a music composer for film and TV, and David Lovering performs as a magician and continues to drum. The U.S. "Doolittle Tour" will be the band's first American trek since 2005. The "Doolittle Tour" will coincide with the release of the ultimate Pixies Collector's Set, Minotaur, which ships to purchasers in early November and will hit stores around the same time. To find out more, visit ainr.com.

Jo Dee Messina Preps New Album

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Multi-platinum country singer/songwriter Jo Dee Messina has been uniquely connecting with audiences on her ongoing national "Music Room Series Tour"--an intimate evening of music and conversation with fans--and has just announced she will release a new single, "That's God," in January 2010. It will set up her first album in five years - Unmistakable -over which time Jo Dee has married and had her first child, a 10-month-old son named Noah. Due in the spring, Unmistakable shows that Jo Dee has fully come into her own as a songwriter and producer--she co-produced the whole album--and isn't afraid to show her true colors. "With theUnmistakable album, it lets people see a different side of me than they have seen in the past," says JO DEE. "For example, I actually recorded straight forward love songs on this album, something I am definitely not known for." Jo Dee has been debuting "That's God"--which she wrote with Brent Rader--along the tour, earning a wildly enthusiastic audience response for its uplifting lyrics, which Jo Dee delivers in her signature soaring voice. "My heart is exploding with excitement. This song is truly what I want to say. I believe in it and its message." Since breaking onto the music scene in 1996,Jo Dee has scored nine #1 country singles, sold over five million records, received two Grammy nominations and received various CMA and ACM awards. Her many hits include "Heads Carolina, Tails California," "Bye Bye," "I'm Alright," "Stand Beside Me," "That's The Way" and "Bring On The Rain" (a duet with Tim McGraw). Jo Dee's next run of dates on the "Music Room Series Tour" wraps November 29 with three nights in Reno. On the road she has been building on her bond with fans as only she can. "The shows have been so much fun because they are totally interactive, from the show itself, to giving away tickets via Twitter prior to the show, to the internet broadcast following the show. It is truly all about the fans." Learn more at jodeemessina.com/.

Brodsky Announces Tour Dates

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Brodsky, the brains behind Pet Genius, the Stephen Brodsky in Stephen Brodsky's Octave Museum and lead of the groundbreaking metal core/space rock outfit Cave In, is (maybe) coming to a town near you! Please check the dates below to see if the aforementioned statement applies to you, believe me, its worth looking into! Stephen Brodsky's solo exploits are a slice of fried gold! One of the most under-recognized overachievers in contemporary indie music. For most, its an undertaking on first listen because one cannot contain this gentleman's creations in any sort of six sided receptacle, however a discerning listener immediately recognizes the mastery Stephen possesses over his craft.

Rob Zombie Offers Fan Package

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Rob Zombie has partnered with I Love All Access to provide "Ultimate Fan Packages" on his upcoming tour. Each includes: · One general admission ticket, with priority access · A meet & greet with Rob Zombie · A pre-show party · Exclusive Rob Zombie gift bag · Crowd-free merchandise shopping · Ultimate Fan souvenir laminate · Parking This will be Zombie's first headline tour since 2007 and will have other ghoulish delights in tow including openers Nekromantix and Captain Clegg & the Night Creatures last seen rocking Haddonfield and Michael Myers in Zombie's new film Halloween 2. "I am bouncing off the walls like a mental patient", says Zombie "That tells me it's time to take it to the stage and let the demons loose." For more, go to iloveallaccess.com.

Warner Bros. Attending WFMU Record Fair

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Warner Bros. Records will bring vinyl to the people this weekend by hosting a booth at the annual WFMU Record Fair at the Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th Street, in Manhattan "There is no better place to sell music directly to fans than at the annual WMFU show," says Warner Bros. Records General Manager Tom Biery, who oversees all of the company's vinyl releases. "As a vinyl freak, I have been going to the show for years and have always thought that having a WBR/Reprise booth to sell our records would be a ton of fun as well as a great learning experience." This weekend also kicks off Warner Bros. Records' relationship with vinyl-only indie label, Original Recording Group (ORG), which will be manning the WBR booth. At the show, Reprise Records will unveil, for the first time, legendary singer-songwriter Neil Young's first four catalog reissues, including the direct-to-fan 180-gram Limited Edition box set. Those titles, Neil Young, Everybody Knows This is Nowhere, After The Gold Rush, and Harvest, have been meticulously cut by Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman Mastering from the original master tapes (under the direct supervision of Neil Young's team) and manufactured at the world's premiere record-pressing plant, Pallas MFG/Germany. This is the first-ever upgrade to these essential recordings on vinyl and is sure to delight both fans and audiophiles alike.

Kansas Offers New DVD

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas delivers unforgettable live performances! Evidenced nowhere better than on their current DVD release, There's Know Place Like Home debuts at #5 on the Billboard DVD top sales chart. Featuring guest appearances by former members Kerry Livgren and Steve Morse, spectacular lighting, and songs previously not recorded with a symphony, this unique concert has been captured in High Definition video and Surround Sound audio. Released October 13th, TKPLH has already become the highest- charting Kansas DVD of all-time and the #1 selling DVD for RED distribution this week. The immediate success of There's Know Place Like Home, should come as no surprise, as uniting Kansas with the orchestra is a natural and richly fulfilling experience. The result is a must-own DVD of a performance filmed/recorded earlier this year at the Washburn University's White Concert Hall in their original hometown of Topeka, KS and released on co-producers Jeff Glixman and Jim Gentile's StarCity label. Says Glixman: "I have seen many, many KANSAS shows and this one was right at the very top. The DVD contains arguably the definitive versions of 'Icarus II', 'Hold On', 'Nobody's Home' and more, as well as Kerry Livgren and Steve Morse appearing together for the first time". Add to the mix simply magnificent renditions of such Kansas classics as "Carry on Wayward Son" and "Dust in the Wind," and you have a can't-miss recipe that has resulted in what is unquestionably one of the finest in-concert rock DVD's of 2009. For more information, visit: www.starcityrecording.com www.kansasband.com

Masters of American Music Series Coming on DVD

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The award-winning Masters of American Music documentary series was the first produced about Jazz, and on October 27, Naxos will release the first DVD from the series, profiling Charlie Parker, Billie Holiday, and Thelonioius Monk. Dispensing with critics and historians, the series focused on the musicians: dozens of them telling the story of Jazz in their own words. Often, music performances are allowed to play out, entertaining moments are illuminated, and the irrepressible nature of the music and its greatest innovators shines through. The series set a new standard for television music documentaries. The documentaries were broadcast in the 1980s and '90s; this is their first appearance on DVD. Masters of American Music is a co-production of Toby Byron/Multiprises in association with Beta Film, Munich and VideoArts Japan. Learn more at naxos.com.

Motley Crue Slate New Greatest Hits Disc

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Mötley Crüe have announced plans for an updated version of their Greatest Hits, a remix of "The Animal In Me" and the Grammy nominated "Saints of Los Angeles" from the hit album of the same name. After playing to a million rock fans around the world over the past year with the recently completed Crüe Fest 2, the Saints of Los Angeles 2009 arena tour, headlining tour dates around the globe, and last year's Crüe Fest (which was the most successful touring rock festival of the summer) and over 80 million albums sold, the world's most notorious rock band only knows how to do things huge. Mötley's latest album, Saints of Los Angeles, debuted at #1 on the Independent Album chart and was the top debut of the week on Billboard's Top 200 at #4. The title track was nominated for a Grammy in 2009 for Best Hard Rock Performance and was the first track ever to be released simultaneously on the popular video game Rock Band, which sold five-times the amount of traditional retailers in its first week. "Saints of Los Angeles" was also named the top rock song of 2008 by the iTunes' editorial board. The Crüe will offer a new version of their greatest hits in time for the 2009 holiday season and will include hits like "Dr. Feelgood," "Without You," "Smokin' In The Boys' Room," "Home Sweet Home," "Girls, Girls, Girls," "Kickstart My Heart," "Same Ol' Situation (S.O.S.)", "Don't Go Away Mad," "If I Die Tomorrow," "Saints of Los Angeles" and also a new remix of "The Animal In Me." The album will be released on November 17. For more, visit motley.com.

Pixies Announce Support Acts for U.S. Tour

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In celebration of the 20th anniversary of the release of their classic 1989 album Doolittle, the Pixies - Black Francis, Kim Deal, Joey Santiago and David Lovering - will kick off the 21-date U.S. leg of their "Doolittle Tour" on Wednesday, November 4 at the Hollywood Palladium. Today, the band announces the support acts for the tour. Opening for the Pixies over the course of the "Doolittle Tour" will be Bad Lieutenant, the new project from New Order/Joy Division's Bernard Sumner; the Los Angeles experimental art rock duo No Age; Brooklyn-based music project Black Gold; TV on the Radio/Kyp Malone's solo project Rain Machine; garage punk musician Jay Reatard; and Denmark's flamboyant Mew. (Full schedule below.) In addition, a third and final Chicago show has been added to the American trek. The Pixies will now open their Chicago run on Thursday, November 19 at the Aragon Ballroom with Bad Lieutenant supporting. The "Doolittle Tour" launched on September 30 in Ireland, and has played sold-out shows everywhere - Scotland, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, and to 20,000 fans over four nights in London. The "Doolittle Tour" has also received rave notices - five-star reviews in the [London] Times, the Guardian, and the Independent, which also said, "...no band has pulled off a one-album show as triumphantly as the Pixies did here with a 20th anniversary performance of their 1989 masterpiece Doolittle." On this tour, the Pixies will perform all of the songs from Doolittle and its related B-sides, "Weird at My School, "Dancing the Manta Ray," and "Bailey's Walk" among them. Doolittle, the band's third album and the first to chart on Billboard's album charts, includes classics such as "Debaser," "Wave of Mutilation," "Here Comes Your Man," "Hey," and "Gouge Away." "We wanted to do something special for Doolittle's 20th anniversary, said Black Francis, "and we thought this was a good opportunity to play all of the songs from that album, something we don't normally do at a regular gig." The "Doolittle Tour" will coincide with the release of the ultimate Pixies Collector's Set, Minotaur, which ships in early November.

Tegan And Sara Slate U.S. Tour

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Canadian pop-rockers Tegan and Sara have announced that they will launch their first extensive tour of the U.S. in nearly two years in February 2010. The tour kicks off February 12th in Northampton, MA, and criss-crosses the country before finishing up on April 6th in Salt Lake City, UT. The ticket pre-sale begins this Wednesday, October 14th, at 10 a.m. The password for all pre-sales is "Sainthood." Tickets will go on sale to the public on Friday, October 16th, at 10 a.m. Twin sisters Tegan and Sara Quin are hitting the road in support of their eagerly awaited sixth studio album SAINTHOOD, which is due from Sire/Vapor Records on October 27. SAINTHOOD was produced by Death Cab for Cutie's Chris Walla (who also produced 2007's critically applauded THE CON) and Howard Redekopp (who produced 2004's groundbreaking effort SO JEALOUS) and mixed by Grammy Award winner Dave Sardy (Oasis, Primal Scream, Marilyn Manson). Tegan and Sara began recording SAINTHOOD in May at the legendary Sound City Studios in Van Nuys, CA, where Tom Petty, Nirvana, and Fleetwood Mac have all recorded. They finished laying down tracks at Seattle's Two Sticks Audio, owned by Death Cab drummer Jason McGerr. "Hell," the first digital single from SAINTHOOD, is now available for purchase from all digital service providers and is currently streaming live on the band's website www.teganandsara.com. It is the band's first new song released to fans since July 2007. Fans who pre-order SAINTHOOD on iTunes will receive the track as a free digital download. An iTunes exclusive deluxe version of the album will feature two bonus tracks: "Wrists" and "Light Up." As previously mentioned, a triumvirate of books entitled ON, IN, AT, will be released in conjunction with the release of SAINTHOOD. The three-book set, which chronicles different time periods from the past year in the lives of Tegan and Sara, will be available through teganandsara.com. These books are a Must Have item for fans and have been beautifully photographed, annotated and packaged. Check the site for additional details. To celebrate the release of SAINTHOOD, Tegan and Sara will perform four very special shows: October 25th and 26th at Los Angeles' Orpheum Theater, and October 30th and 31st at New York City's Town Hall. The band will also appear on NBC's The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien on November 2nd. Tegan and Sara's 2010 U.S. tour dates are as follows: Feb 12 Northampton, MA Calvin Theatre Feb 13 Boston, MA The Orpheum Feb 16 Philadelphia, PA Tower Theatre (Upper Darby) Feb 17 Washington, DC Warner Theatre Feb 18 Richmond, VA The National Feb 20 Tampa, FL Tampa Theatre Feb 21 Miami, FL Sunset Cove Feb 23 Atlanta, GA Variety Playhouse Feb 24 New Orleans, LA Tipitina's Feb 25 Dallas, TX Palladium Feb 26 Austin, TX Bass Concert Hall Feb 27 Houston, TX The Warehouse Mar 02 Las Vegas, NV House of Blues Mar 03 San Diego, CA Copley Symphony Hall Mar 05 San Francisco, CA Fox Theater Mar 06 San Francisco, CA Fox Theater Mar 24 Minneapolis, MN The Orpheum Mar 25 Milwaukee, WI The Riverside Mar 26 Chicago IL The Aragon Mar 27 Detroit, MI Royal Oak Theatre Mar 28 Cleveland, OH Lakewood Civic Mar 30 Columbus, OH Promo West Pavilion Apr 02 St. Louis, MO The Pageant Apr 03 Kansas City, MO Uptown Theatre Apr 04 Denver, CO The Ogden Apr 06 Salt Lake City, UT In The Venue For info, tour dates, merch, personal blogs and much more, visit: www.teganandsara.com

NXT Launches Double Bass

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Steinberger's new NXT series Double Bass is crafted in the Czech Republic by the makers of the renowned CR Series. Its solid maple body and neck, with graduated ebony fingerboard, deliver a rich, full tone that rings true for every note. Asymmetrical fingerboard relief facilitates an even 'growl' from the higher strings and a clear, powerful lower register. The adjustable bridge and truss rod allow for low, fast action, or for higher string settings that encourage the traditional acoustic player to 'dig in' with gusto. Pizzicato and arco techniques have almost unlimited expressive potential, thanks to the Polar Pickup System. A convenient switch allows selection of the traditional arco mode for percussive attack and dynamic bowed response, or pizzicato mode for a smooth, sustained tone. Equipped with single volume and tone controls, the passive electronics deliver unlimited overhead for the ultimate sound without cumbersome batteries. NS Electric Strings and most traditional acoustic strings fit all NS Double Basses, allowing the player to select from a wide range, each with a unique sound a feel. A wide array of interchangeable support systems make the NXT Double Bass adaptable to virtually any situation. The NXT bass brings world-class design and craftsmanship to a surprisingly affordable price range. With a visual appearance as striking as its sound, the roadworthy NXT is an exciting and reliable partner for the most demanding performance career.

Blue Cheer Founder Dickie Peterson Passes

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Dickie Peterson, bassist and frontman for Blue Cheer, died October 12 in Germany, after a bout with liver cancer. He was 61. Named for a strain of acid, Peterson and Blue Cheer were influenced by Cream and Jimi Hendrix and released their first album, Vincebus Eruptum, in 1968. Their music - now sometimes referred to as "proto metal," stood in stark contrast to much of the pervasive music of the late '60s. They scored a hit when their rendition of Eddie Cochran's "Summertime Blues" and later were the first band listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as "Loudest Band in the World," a title later held by Deep Purple and The Who. Blue Cheer disbanded in 1972, and Peterson re-formed the group 1984. In 2007 it released What Doesn't Kill You ... and continued to tour.

3RD Power Introduces HLH100 Amp

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

3RD Power Amplification Systems has introduced its first product, a truly unique professional guitar amp system. The HLH100 Series system combines patent-applied-for technologies in both its tube amplifier and triangular 3x12 speaker cabinet to produce the ultimate medium-to-high gain guitar rig. The HLH100 features hand-wired circuitry from amp to cabinet and is made in the USA. This unique, large-format rig was designed for serious guitarists by 3RD Power president and pro audio industry veteran Jamie Scott. "In the 25 years I've been playing, I've spent a lot my free time working on my guitar rig," he states. "The goal was create a tour-ready rig that can produce a 'fader-up' guitar sound with killer overdrive tone at any volume level, while eliminating the standing waves and phase smear inherent in traditional speaker cabinet design." To achieve the sound he was looking for, Scott perfected the DirecDRIV tube preamp section, which produces a sweet-sounding overdrive that transmits every nuance from guitar to cabinet, at any volume. An innovative Smooth/Bold voicing switch gives the player a choice of tonalities between a classic late-60s sound (Smooth) and an assertive, more lyrical tube quality (Bold). The HD100 amp is hand-wired point to point and produces a classic 100 watts of power designed for use in combination with the HLH 312 cabinet. The physical design of the HLH 312 speaker cabinet, while visually striking, has very specific sonic benefits. With no parallel walls, many of the audio artifacts inherent in more traditional cabinet designs have been eliminated. The shape also allows closer spacing of the speaker cones, creating a distinctive, point-source sound that retains coherency across the entire sound stage. Like the system's HD100 amp head, the 312 cabinet is the brainchild of 3RD Power founder Jamie Scott, who has been playing professionally since the age of 16. "I first sketched the original physical design over 20 years back," he recalls. "In doing patent research for the HLH100 System, I was amazed to learn that no one else had come up with the idea. Because as a guitarist, let me tell you, the sound is amazing!" Each HLH 312 cabinet features three Celestion® Vintage 30 speakers, wired in parallel for exceptional transient response and rich, dynamic sound, from tight, extended lows to sweet, articulate mids and highs. By stacking three cabinets together, guitarists can achieve a wet/dry/wet structure in roughly the same space as two conventional 4x12 cabinets. This architecture creates an amazingly consistent sound throughout the performance area, eliminating the comb-filtering lobes and harsh, "beamy" sound of conventional rigs to achieve an amazingly cohesive soundstage. At its heart, 3RD Power Amplification is a showcase for Jamie Scott's lifelong search for the ultimate guitar rig. "When you get three 312 cabinets together with the HD100 head in that wet/dry/wet configuration, the sound is amazing!" he enthuses. "The harmonically rich and responsive overdrive, the 3D soundstage created with no hotspots or dead spots... It's something that every serious player has to experience." For full information, including video demos, visit 3rdpoweramps.com.

Verheyen Slates West Coast Dates

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Carl Verheyen is embarking on a limited run of tour dates on the West Coast. The 24-year guitar veteran of multi-platinum band Supertramp is showcasing his abilities on a limited run of West Coast shows. The Carl Verheyen Band is a highly-regarded group of top players including bassist Dave Marotta and drummer Walfredo Reyes, Jr. The sound created by these master musicians blends rock, blues, jazz and country seamlessly. The Carl Verheyen Band is touring in support of Trading 8s, Verheyen's tenth studio album to date. See a list of dates at carlverheyen.com.

Cavo Tours with Daughtry, ToDM

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Fresh off national tours with Cruefest, Shinedown, and Sick Puppies, hot, up-and-coming rock band Cavo will hit the road with Daughtry and Theory of a Deadman beginning October 19th. The extensive arena tour will criss-cross through the U.S. through December 20th. The St. Louis quartet are touring in support of their major-label debut album Bright Nights Dark Days, which was released by Reprise Records on August 11th. The album, which was produced by David Bendeth (Breaking Benjamin, Paramore, All Time Low), debuted at No. 48 on the Billboard album chart and has spawned the rock radio hit "Champagne," which climbed to No. 1 on both the BDS/Billboard Active Rock and Mainstream Rock charts, making Cavo the first new artist to hit the top spot on the Mainstream chart since Trapt did it in 2003. The second single from Bright Nights Dark Days, "Crash," is impacting rock radio now and has been added at more than 60 Alternative, Active, and Mainstream Rock stations across the country. It was the only song that debuted on last week's Active Rock chart. Cavo is singer Casey Walker, guitarist Chris Hobbs, drummer Chad La Roy, and bassist Brian Smith. See more at cavomusic.com.

PAPER ZOO Kick Off National Tour With Roger Daltrey; Release Debut EP on Custard

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Los Angeles' Paper Zoo will release its self-titled EP via Custard this fall. The set will be released in conjunction with their first national tour which kicked off this past Saturday in Vancouver. The band will open for rock legend Roger Daltrey as part of his first headlining solo tour since 1985. Led by guitarist/lead singer Allister Izenberg, Paper Zoo play with an approach that reflects eclectic tastes and surprisingly deep roots - from Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and Queen to contemporary and even esoteric influences - that drive them to create a language all their own. After a chance meeting with multi-platinum singer/songwriter/producer and Custard label head Linda Perry at a Guitar Center at the age of 13, Paper Zoo - then a power trio - started working to develop their sound with longtime Perry collaborator and Bigelf frontman Damon Fox. Their debut EP comes nearly six years and one new band member since that Guitar Center meeting. Produced by Damon and mixed by Alain Johannes (Queens of the Stone Age, Them Crooked Vultures), the EP is a creation of rough demos recorded over the span of several visits to Linda's Kung Fu Gardens. "I've been developing these kids since that day at Guitar Center. Every time I think about these guys or do anything with them, I get extremely excited. When I listen to their music, I feel like I go on a journey; they are so refreshing to me. They truly are the new generation," says Perry. Paper Zoo is Allister, William Thomas Wesley II (bass), Monte Dyaami Najera (drums) and Martin Lopez (keys). Allister's soft spot for the heavy and the psychedelic emerges through his guitar stylings, while Billy's bass is supportive and lyrical and propelling it all is Monte's fluid feel for his drums. The latest addition to the Paper Zoo is keyboardist Martin Lopez who is universally adept at the organ, piano mellotron and synthesizer. Learn more at wearepaperzoo.com.

Jello Biafra and The Guantanamo School of Medicine Set Tour Dates

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Though many of Jello Biafra's "collaborations" (Lard, No WTO Combo, Tumor Circus, & records with Melvins, DOA, Nomeansno, & Mojo Nixon) would have been called solo albums by other artists, this is his first full-time working band since Dead Kennedys, and it shows. Also on board are Ralph Spight (Victims Family, Freak Accident, Hellworms) Jon Weiss (Sharkbait, Horsey), Billy Gould (Faith No More), & Kimo Ball (Freak Accident, Carneyball Johnson, Mol Triffid, Griddle). In the twenty or so years since his brainchild Dead Kennedys officially disbanded, Jello Biafra has made a career of spoken word gigs interspersed with musical collaborations with some of the most compelling figures in underground music. Recording projects and touring with the likes of Melvins, No Means No, DOA, Mojo Nixon and Lard (with Ministry's Al Jorgensen) among others have kept his "hardcore as political weapon" message sharp, but the lack of his own band made these collaborations usually short-lived and left Biafra with a ton of songs that had never seen the light of day. Inspired by The Stooges gig on Iggy Pop's 60th birthday gig in San Francisco, Biafra laid plans for his own 50th birthday party and finally decided it was time to start a band of his own. After cramming rehearsal for a month the four piece band called themselves Jello Biafra and the Axis Of Merry Evildoers! The band, which featured Jello, Billy Gould, Ralph Spight, & Jon Weiss, took the stage in a sold-out 2-night stand at San Francisco's Great American Music Hall. Flush from that exhilarating triumph, the band did 9 months of rehearsal & writing, and added ace guitarist Kimo Ball. This led to the recording of "The Audacity of Hype." Now christened Jello Biafra and The Guantanamo School of Medicine, the band's record was produced by Biafra and engineered by Hip Hop producer and long time Jello co-conspirator Matt Kelley (Hieroglyphics, The Coup, Digital Underground, Victims Family, Tumor Circus) at Prairie Sun Recording in Cotati, CA and San Francisco's Hyde Street Studios. The band's twin guitar attack retains some of the space-punk overtones and spy-music-on-meth chaos of Dead Kennedys while adding a healthy dose of Detroit style proto-punk, flavored with Weiss' industrial excursions into metal percussion. Topically, the album explores how our forced Iraqnophobia and Homeland Insecurity continues to feed lawlessness at the top ("The Terror Of Tiny Town") vs. a runaway police state and class war towards the bottom ("Three Strikes," "Electronic Plantation" (originally done by the No WTO Combo, Jello's one-off collaboration with Krist Novelselic (Nirvana) & Kim Thayil (Soundgarden). "Clean As A Thistle" becomes more timely every day as "Family Values" blowhards from Sanford to Berlusconi get caught in sinful trysts, while album closer "I Won't Give Up" offers an age of Obama anthem on how change comes from agitation from below, not from glamour and sound bites from the top. Thirty years on, Jello Biafra has made an album that solidifies and expands his uncompromising vision and updates it for the new century, with a powerhouse band that promises to be a terrifying live machine, currently with Ron Nichols (Grinch, Hammers of Misfortune, Fracas) filling the bass position upon Billy Gould's return to Faith No More.

Keb' Mo' releases indie album

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Grammy Award winning bluesy singer/songwriter Keb' Mo' will embark on a 31-date American tour while releasing his first indie album, Live & Mo', October 20. A blend of songs handpicked by Keb' Mo' for the premiere release on his own label, Yolabelle International, the CD includes six live performances harvested from pinnacle moments on the road and four new studio recordings, including the anthemic "A Brand New America," an inspirational band version of "Victims of Comfort," the deep funky groove of "Government Cheese" and the back-porch blues of "Hole in the Bucket." Live & Mo' will be available through Keb' Mo's web site. The tour opens October 14 and covers such major cities as Toronto, New York, Boston, Washington, Albany, Philadelphia, Chicago, Milwaukee, Denver, Ann Arbor, Salt Lake City, Oakland and Portland, OR. All dates find Keb' Mo' and his Band as the headliner with the exception of the November 21 Oakland date, which is a co-headline with Solomon Burke. (A full list of dates follows.) While the tour proceeds, Keb' Mo's single from the Playing For Change CD, "Better Man," is impacting Triple A radio. Keb' is also the voice-over talent and has donated a song - an acoustic version of "A Brand New America" - to the NAACP produced Census 2010 informational video to be distributed virally this Fall. As evidenced by these tracks, Keb's songs about hope and bringing out the best in humanity are resonating on many levels and in various media. Keb' Mo's web site now features a newly designed merchandise store called Mo' Stuff, which is stocked with a unique line of clothing and lifestyle items, a detailed discography featuring streaming music of his entire catalog, and a special section detailing his favorite guitars as well as his personal commentary on them. Keb' Mo's music is a contemporary link to the seminal Delta blues tradition that traveled up the Mississippi River and across the expanse of America - informing all of its musical roots - before evolving into a universally celebrated art form. Born Kevin Moore in South Los Angeles to parents originally from the Deep South, he adopted his better-known stage name when he was a young player who became inspired by the force of this essential African-American legacy. In the tradition of bluesmen before him, from Muddy Waters, also known as McKinley Morganfield, and Taj Mahal, who began his days as Henry St. Clair Fredericks, Moore became known as Keb' Mo'. His acclaimed self-titled 1994 debut album introduced that now famous appellation to the world, and his latest, Live & Mo' represents another musical experience to be savored. Learn more at kebmo.com.

Waylon Jennings' RCA Years Reissued

Sat, 10 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Waylon Jennings is the recognized father of the Outlaw movement of country, a rebel against the Nashville establishment whose recordings blended honky-tonk, rock 'n' roll and folk in a way virtually nobody else was doing at the time. Collectors' Choice has chosen six of Jennings' many RCA long-players from 1966-'70 and will release them as three twofer CDs: Folk Country/Waylon Sings Ol' Harlan, Love of the Common People/Hangin' On and Waylon/Singer of Sad Songs. The CDs will hit the streets on November 24, 2009. Grammy Award-winning annotator/historian Colin Escott wrote the liner notes. In the 1950s, Jennings was a Lubbock DJ and fledgling singer whose first record was produced by Buddy Holly (Jennings briefly played bass for Holly, and gave up his airplane seat to the Big Bopper before the ill-fated flight that took the lives of the Bopper, Holly and Richie Valens). In 1963 Jennings, then living in Phoenix, signed to A&M for one LP that went nowhere, and was advised by Bobby Bare, for whom he'd co-written a hit, that Nashville was the place to be. So when RCA Nashville A&R head/producer Chet Atkins invited Jennings to sign, he jumped at the chance: "I started out for Nashville in a yellow Cadillac with a yellow-haired woman." As Escott reminds us in the liner notes for Folk Country/Waylon Sings Ol' Harlan, "Waylon, remembered by many these days as a grizzled cowboy stoner, was young once. Most artists dismiss their old work, but Waylon thought he was as good as he could be during every phase of his long career, and the evidence bears him out." The two albums, coupled onto one CD, document the 1966-67 period as Jennings found his way in Nashville. Folk Country, Jennings' RCA debut, was so called as Atkins wanted to attract some of the folk hootenanny crowd, but the record was mainstream country all the way -- most of the songs written by Harlan Howard, "among the most gifted and prolific writers in country music history," as Escott notes. From the album came Jennings' first hit, "That's the Chance I'll Have to Take." One year, two LPs and a movie later (Nashville Rebel, 1966), Jennings returned to the studio for his fourth RCA album, Waylon Sings Ol' Harlan, cut in '66 and released in '67. Included were Howard songs "Busted," "Tiger By the Tail," "She Called Me Baby," "Foolin' Around" and "In This Very Same Room." The second CD combines Love of the Common People (1967) and Hangin' On (1968). Early in his career, Jennings released three LPs a year featuring old songs, then-current songs that moved him, and his most recent hits. Included on Love of the Common People were the title track, Lennon/McCartney's "You've Got To Hide Your Love Away," Mel Tillis' "Ruby Don't Take Your Love to Town" (three years before it was a hit for Kenny Rogers & the First Edition) and "Young Widow Brown," later recorded by Frankie Miller. In the fall of 1967, Harlan Howard's "The Chokin' Kind" became Jennings' biggest hit, peaking at #8 on the country charts. It appeared on Hangin' On, and later became a #1 soul hit for Joe Simon. Also on Hangin' On: "Lock, Stock and Teardrops," "Hangin' On" and "The Crowd." Atkins, says Escott, "didn't care too much about albums. Singles were his business." And so after accumulating enough recorded material from Jennings, thrice yearly Atkins would pull songs for an LP. Hangin' On came out of several sessions between February and September 1967. And this got Jennings thinking about the meaning of albums. Jennings grew weary of the "Nashville way." As Escott points out, "It was an assembly line and after five years, Jennings was beginning to resent it. He wanted less quantity and more quality. He wanted albums to be personal statements, not assemblages of songs from different sessions. And he wanted to work with his road band, not session men. Rock singers had achieved that level of autonomy but country musicians were still locked into Nashville's old ways." Collectors' Choice's third CD twofer includes two 1970 LPs, when the tides were starting to turn. It was a big year for the artist as six of his songs appeared in the Mike Jagger movie Ned Kelly, A&M Records released a compilation of his early recordings, and RCA released a greatest hits collection. He also produced an album by his wife, Jessi Colter. And Chet Atkins, long Jennings' producer, was withdrawing from production to refocus on playing. Jennings was assigned a new producer, Danny Davis, and the transition didn't go well. "I would go into the studio and do tracks," Jennings wrote, and when I came back, I wouldn't recognize the same song." And there were other grievances. Yet their first collaboration, Waylon, turned out well and bore a #3 hit, a cover of Chuck Berry's "Brown Eyed Handsome Man." Also included were Mickey Newberry's stoner anthem "Thirty-third of August" and "All of Me Belongs to You," as well as a re-record of "Yellow Haired Woman." Jennings shares CD space with Singer of Sad Songs, produced by the late Lee Hazelwood not in Nashville but rather Los Angeles. Sidemen included Randy Meisner (Poco), and future New Riders of the Purple Sage members Allen Kemp and Patrick Shanahan. Material ranged from Hazelwood's "She Comes Running" to Chris Kenner's R&B hit "Sick and Tired," plus songs by Tim Harden, Tom Rush and the Louvin Brothers. The transition to Outlaw was now complete. Singer of Sad Songs was an artistic success -- likely ahead of its time -- but commercially it failed. Escott writes, "Within couple years, however, Waylon Jennings would be making albums that are even now considered unapproachable classics . . . Waylon was in search of something and he was beginning to discover what it was. We'd all find out soon enough."

Sam Hinton dies at 92; folk songwriter and singer

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hinton was one of the founders of the folk-song movement that began in the 1930s. Sam Hinton folk singer, songwriter, naturalist and San Diego civic treasure who delighted school children and folk-festival audiences for decades, died Thursday at an assisted living facility in Albany in Northern California where, in failing health, he had moved two years ago. He was 92. The cause of death was a series of old-age ailments including congestive heart failure, said his daughter, Leanne. Sam Hinton was born March 21, 1917, in Tulsa, Okla. In Oklahoma and later in Texas, he developed a lifelong passion for two things: reptiles (particularly snakes) and folk music. Hinton was preceded in death by his wife, Leslie Forster, a violinist and singer, in 2005. Besides his daughter, Leanne of Berkeley, Hinton is survived by his son, Matthew of Trinidad, Calif.; two grandchildren; and a great-grandchild. A memorial service is planned for San Diego.

Keane Slates Hopes and Fears Deluxe Addition

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Keane's Hopes and Fears sold more than 5.8 million copies worldwide after its release in 2004, and landed a top 10 spot on the Billboard 200. The album was also voted one of the "Best British Albums" ever in a Q Magazine/HMV poll, the first of two Keane albums to feature in the Top 20*. Over the course of ten years as an unsigned band, Keane had written what was to become one of the classic albums of our time, and one of the last multi-million selling albums of this generation. It marked a triumph for the three boys from Battle in East Sussex, but it was a success not without controversy. As a debut record, it stood alone in its originality. The absence of any guitars, a powerful, almost operatic vocal delivery, and a wall of melodic sound made solely from pianos, keyboards and a set of drums. The emotion of the record gave a voice to millions. The landscape at the time was awash with new bands from across the Atlantic, and it took Keane and 'Hopes And Fears' to bring all the attention back to British talent. The song writing talent of Rice-Oxley, now world renowned, reaped an Ivor Novello in 2004 for Best Composer of the Year. Yet despite having written a record that united so many different people from all walks of life across the globe, its sudden phenomenal success almost tore the lifelong friends apart. For with its undisputed accolades, it quickly changed the band's lives and threatened not only their long-standing friendships, but the career of Keane as well. Having fought against the grain for a decade around the country's backroom bars in the back of a van, this sudden shot to fame for Keane transformed the very dynamics that had reaped them these rewards in the first place. This sweetest of victories could have turned remarkably bitter, but it created an edge and strength of resolution that had pulled Keane through from day one, and has subsequently set the tone for their future releases and successes ever since. In addition to the original tracklisting this deluxe album showcases previously un-released and rare material including early demo 'Into The Light', recordings from the band's earliest Steve Lamacq and Jo Whiley radio sessions, the timeless b-side and fans favourite, 'Snowed Under' (from 'Somewhere Only We Know'), and their debut self released singles. Learn more at keanemusic.com.

Taking Back Sunday Preps Live Release

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Taking Back Sunday has today released Live From Bamboozle '09 , available exclusively on iTunes. The Live From Bamboozle '09 album captures the band playing to a crowd of over 30K fans at the 2009 Bamboozle Festival, which took place in Rutherford, New Jersey on May 3rd. This is the first time songs from all four of the band's albums are together on one release. The New York quintet is renowned for their electric live performances. The Kansas City Star praised the band's charisma, continuing "a rapt audience ate it up like kettle corn on a hot day," while the Cleveland Scene declared "Anyone who's ever liked Taking Back Sunday should see the band live, just to be amazed by (front man Adam) Lazzara's stage presence." Fresh from a hugely successful run with Blink-182 this summer, Taking Back Sunday will be supporting Live From Bamboozle '09 with a US co-headlining tour with The All-American Rejects. The string of dates kicks off November 3rd in East Lansing and runs through December 6th in Miami, FL. Taking Back Sunday's fourth studio album New Again was the third consecutive Taking Back Sunday album to debut in the top 10 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart. Warner Bros Records released the album on June 2nd and the band celebrated with a performance of their Top 10 Modern Rock hit "Sink Into Me" on Jimmy Kimmel Live. Produced by David Kahne, New Again has earned effusive critical praise. Rolling Stone/ declared the track "Sink Into Me," "the first song by an emo-pop band that the Foo Fighters wish they'd written: Catchy, lusty and sleekly propulsive." The band premiered their new single "Where My Mouth Is" on MTV's It's On With Alexa Chung in August. The song goes to radio this month. Visit takingbacksunday.com.

Sheryl Crow's Tuesday Night Music Club Gets Deluxe Treatment

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT
The debut album that launched Sheryl Crow into rock music consciousness has been expanded both musically and visually for the 2CD/1DVD Tuesday Night Music Club - Deluxe Edition (A&M/UMe), released November 17, 2009. Along with the original 1993 album, the package adds a second CD containing B-sides, rarities and out-takes, as well as a bonus DVD featuring the album's videos ("Leaving Las Vegas," "All I Wanna Do," "Strong Enough," "Can't Cry Anymore," "Run, Baby, Run" and "What I Can Do For You," plus a rare alternate version of "All I Wanna Do" directed by Roman Coppola) and a newly produced documentary comprised of on-the-road, backstage, soundcheck and live footage from the original album tour. Highlighting the bonus CD for Tuesday Night Music Club- Deluxe Edition are four previously unreleased recordings from 1995 that were intended for the follow-up album--"Coffee Shop," "Killer Life," "Essential Trip Of Hereness" and "You Want More" --each only now mixed by original Tuesday Night Music Club producer Bill Bottrell. In addition, Bottrell remixed the album's "I Shall Believe" specifically for this Deluxe Edition. The bonus CD also includes a trio of U.K. single B-sides ("Reach Around Jerk," an alternate "The Na-Na Song" titled "Volvo Cowgirl 99" and a cover of Eric Carmen's "All By Myself"), a tribute album cover of Led Zeppelin's "D'yer Mak'er," and "On The Outside," a contribution to an X-Files soundtrack album. Tuesday Night Music Club has proved to be a landmark achievement even beyond propelling Crow's own formidable career by inspiring and influencing countless female singer-songwriters, perhaps even saving that genre from extinction in the grungy days of the early '90s. Certified seven times platinum and charting at #3, the album spawned five Grammy® nominations and three wins: Best New Artist and a pair for "All I Wanna Do," including Record of the Year. Three songs reached the Pop Top 40--the gold "All I Wanna Do" (#2), "Strong Enough" (#5) and "Can't Cry Anymore." "Leaving Las Vegas" cracked the Modern Rock Top 10. "Somehow amidst the dance divas of MTV and the dark angst of Seattle grunge," writes her manager, Scooter Weintraub, in the liner notes, "Sheryl's salty voice, twangy Telecaster, frayed Levis, red curls and bent upper lip scratched their way into the musical culture." In 1999, she was ranked among VH1's "100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll." Since Tuesday Night Music Club, Crow has released five studio albums (each charting Top 10, four of them platinum-plus), a triple-platinum greatest hits collection, and more. She has also been nominated for 27 more Grammys, winning six more. Her most recent nomination was for her most recent album, 2008's Detours, which reunited her with producer Bottrell and returned her to the spirit ofTuesday Night Music Club.

Our Lady Peace Fall Tour Starts October 19

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Our Lady Peace, with Raine Maida (vocalist), Duncan Coutts (bass), Jeremy Taggart (drums), Steve Mazur (guitar), will be kicking off a U.S. headlining tour starting October 19 in Solana Beach, CA to promote their seventh studio album, Burn, Burn, which was released July 21 via Coalition Entertainment (Records) through Warner Music Group's Independent Label Group. While the trek is set to conclude October 31, more dates are being added throughout the rest of the year. The album, which debuted at #41 on the Billboard "Top 200 Albums" chart, has already produced a hit single with "All You Did Was Save My Life," thanks to heavy rotation at four different formats: Alternative, Top 40, Triple A and Active. The video stars fellow Canadian, Shenae Grimes, of "90210" and "Degrassi: The Next Generation" fame. "The End Is Where We Begin" is the second single is now being serviced to radio and has recently been added to stations nationwide including KDGE/Dallas, KTBZ/Houston, WKRK/Cleveland, KRBZ/Kansas City, WPBZ/West Palm Beach and WGRD/Grand Rapids. A video for the song will make its premiere in the next couple of weeks. Primarily self-produced in lead singer Raine Maida's Los Angeles home studio, Burn, Burn marks the longest period between studio albums for Our Lady Peace. It also signifies a sonic and philosophical rebirth. The band now enjoys a creative and professional freedom that they haven't experienced since the release of their now classic debut. "I think about the way we made Naveed, Maida recalls. "We were just starting, we knew nothing about the business and we had no expectations. It was four guys in a room just trusting their instincts. We went back to that. 'Liberating' doesn't really even sum it up." Burn, Burn is a triumphant return to what Maida terms "a proper, mature rock album," steeped in the kind of raw intensity that drove their early material. Blinding rays of anthemic light make way to the tender poise and precision of a band that was looking for a way out and found a satisfying new way in. See more at ourladypeace.net.

Rob Zombie to Release Hellbilly Deluxe 2

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT
The album that all have been waiting for, HELLBILLY DELUXE 2 on Geffen Records will hit the street November 17th at a store near you! The first single WHAT? takes over the airwaves in the next week unleashing the monster Zombie has created. This latest masterpiece is the follow-up of his super smash triple platinum HELLBILLY DELUXE in 1998. In support of this release Zombie will blasts off on tour in Phoenix, AZ on October 29th, Las Vegas, NV on the 30th, and a very special Halloween event on the 31st in Hollywood, CA hosted by Uncle Seymour Coffins also seen recently in HALLOWEEN 2. Zombie will be accompanied by his longtime band mates -guitarist John 5, bassist Piggy D, and drummer Tommy Clufetos. This is the first headline tour since 2007 and will have other ghoulish delights in tow including openers Nekromantix and Captain Clegg & the Night Creatures last seen rocking Haddonfield and Michael Myers in Zombie's new film HALLOWEEN 2. The tour will usher in Zombie's forthcoming album HELLBILLY DELUXE 2 - Noble Jackals, Penny Dreadfuls and the Systematic Dehumanization of Cool (Geffen), a companion to 1998 original. "I am bouncing off the walls like a mental patient", says Zombie "That tells me it's time to take it to the stage and let the demons loose." For more, go to robzombie.com.

Mike Doughty releases Sad Man Happy Man

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Mike Doughty's mostly-acoustic Sad Man Happy Man is a deliberate return to everything people love about Mike Doughty, he makes albums that simmer with verbal wit, and Sad Man Happy Man is no exception with its songs about everything from relationship bust-ups (Doughty was going through one while he was recording it) to his astute observations about the American economy. Musically,Sad Man Happy Man finds Doughty returning to his acoustic roots thanks to its stripped-down arrangements that feature Doughty backing himself on guitar. He also did all the drum programming, as well as played keyboards and what he calls the "weird noise stuff," while his long-time touring partner Andrew "Scrap" Livingston handles bass duties. Recorded at New York's Kampo Studios, the album was co-produced by Doughty and engineer Pat Dillett (They Might Be Giants, David Byrne, Arto Lindsay), with the exception of album's first single "Doubly Gratified," which was produced by David Kahne, who helmed Soul Coughing's 1996 album Irresistible Bliss, as well as albums by Paul McCartney, Sugar Ray, and Tony Bennett. Doughty is also writing a memoir and looking forward to a tour with his friend Scrap and releasingSad Man Happy Man. "Basically I'm trying to make stuff I want to listen to," he says of the album. "And I mean that in a literal sense, not like, "Were I a listener, I would like this," but rather something I can listen to on the subway on headphones and really dig. This is my life, this is what I do. That sounds matter-of-fact, but I really do look at it as a sort of calling - and being an artist at its best is selfless. I'm working for the language, I'm working for the music, I'm working for the songs. I'm a happier guy when I'm conscious of that." Learn more at mikedoughty.com/.

Blind Boys Of Alabama Release Duets

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT
As the Blind Boys of Alabama head into their seventh decade of belting out impeccable harmonies it's only fitting for them to release Duets, a special anthology featuring 14 unique collaborations. The CD, due out October 27th on Saguaro Road Records, includes classics from other artists' Grammy-winning CDs plus four brand new tracks. The first single off of Duets, "Perfect Peace," is now available on itunes and features Jamaican reggae legend Toots Hibbert of Toots and the Maytals. Said Toots, "I grew up musically in the church and it was great working with the Blind Boys and capturing the spiritual vibe I love." Unlike some of their old-time gospel music brethren, the Blind Boys eagerly embrace the popular music world, bringing gospel music to mainstream audiences. As a result the group has formed fast friendships with an impressive array of musicians - venerable colleagues and youthful protégés alike - who span a wealth of genres. Many artists have asked the Blind Boys to guest on their projects and their new release documents these rich, eclectic and cohesive interactions. Duets ranges from rock to reggae, country to contemporary Christian, and blues to ballads, all unified by the Blind Boys' deep, soulful harmonizing. Duets features three previously unreleased tracks - with Lou Reed, John Hammond and Toots Hibbert - as well as a new song with Timothy B. Schmit of the Eagles which will be simultaneously released on his forthcoming CD. Also included is the audio version of a tune with Marva Wright which, until now, was only available on video on the Blind Boys' Live In New Orleans DVD. The album also includes performances with Ben Harper, Randy Travis, Bonnie Raitt, Solomon Burke, Susan Tedeschi, Jars of Clay, Charlie Musselwhite, Asleep At The Wheel, and Dan Zanes. Of the nine previously-released tracks on Duets, seven have appeared on Grammy-nominated or Grammy-winning albums. The diverse group of artists that make up Duets reflects the expansive appeal of the group as well as the sweeping reverence for their talent. The Blind Boys of Alabama are recognized worldwide as living legends of gospel music. Celebrated by both the Grammys and The National Endowment for the Arts with Lifetime Achievement Awards, inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, and winners of five Grammy® Awards, they have attained the highest levels of recognition in a career that spans over 60 years and shows no signs of diminishing. Longevity and major awards aside, The Blind Boys have earned praise for their remarkable interpretations of everything from traditional gospel favorites to contemporary spiritual material by acclaimed songwriters such as Curtis Mayfield, Prince and Tom Waits. Their performances have been experienced by millions on "The Tonight Show," "Late Night with David Letterman," the Grammy® Awards telecast, "60 Minutes," and on their own holiday PBS Special. The Blind Boys' live shows are roof- raising musical events that appeal to audiences of all cultures, as evidenced by an international itinerary that has taken them to almost every continent. In 2007, they released the Grammy winning album, Down in New Orleans, their first for Saguaro Road Records, which was followed in 2008 by a companion DVD, Live in New Orleans. For more, go to www.blindboys.com

Umphrey's McGee Releases of East Star All-Stars Remix

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Available digitally at Itunes and elsewhere beginning October 6, Umphrey's McGee releases a dub remix of "Turn & Run" - remixed by Michael G. of the famed reggae collective, East Star All-Stars (Lonely Hearts World Tour 2009, Dub Side of the Moon, Radiodread). "Turn & Run" originally appeared on Umphrey's McGee's latest studio album, Mantis. Look for Umphrey's McGee on tour Legendary on the live music circuit, Chicago-based Umphrey's McGee has perfected the art of progressive improvisation. With swirling guitar textures, multi-faceted arrangements and their signature blend of power and finesse, the sextet brings jamming to a new level. During the summer of 2007, Umphrey's McGee came home to Chicago to record a special live performance for the award-winning PBS music series Soundstage at WTTW's Grainger Studio. UMPHREY'S McGEE - LIVE features over two hours of dazzling music presented in High-Definition and mixed in 5.1 Surround Sound, plus two bonus tracks (including "Made to Measure" off their most recent studio album Mantis). A visual showcase of the band's spontaneity and innovative prowess, UMPHREY'S McGEE - LIVE, is a must-own for all music enthusiasts and progressive rock fans, and is available now in stores and online. www.umphreys.com

Kiss Marks 35 Years, Releases Disc

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Kiss kicked off their 39-city, Kiss /Alive 35 tour of North America on the heels of Sonic Boom, their first studio album in 11 years. Frontman Paul Stanley produced the new album, which marks a return to their signature 70s sound. The three-piece set includes Sonic Boom, a second, exclusive CD of the famous Kiss hits and a live DVD from their recent show in Argentina. Sonic Boom releases exclusively on October 6 through Walmart and Sam's Club. Kiss is also hitting the road with its Alive 35 tour that started in Detroit's Cobo Hall, the historic venue where the band recorded its landmark Alive album in 1975. This is their first major tour in five years. For more, visit kissonline.com.

Zakk Wylde Slates Hellfire Halloween Bash

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Gibson, Epiphone, and Monster Cable have partnered to celebrate the launch of two new signature model guitars and headphones with a special event in New York on Halloween. Zakk Wylde, guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne and founder Black Label Society, is set to perform at a free concert event at the Hard Rock Café New York in Times Square beginning at 8pm. The event will feature a major nationwide promotional radio campaign, special online contesting and viral marketing and a first-hand look at the special line of the signature Zakk Wylde Gibson USA guitar and Epiphone Graveyard Disciple. The event is also co-sponsored by Dunlop Pedals. Learn more at For more information please visit blsnation.com and/or blacklabelsociety.com.

PRS Intros 30 amp

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Described as an English sound with an American twist, PRS Guitars' new 30 is the first 30-watt cathode-biased guitar amp in a series of lower wattage amps that started with the Sweet 16 model earlier this year. The PRS 30 model features a quartet of EL84 tubes with a control layout similar to the Dallas model PRS amp. See more at prsguitars.com.

PRS Intros Carlos Santana SE One Abraxas

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
In celebration of Carlos Santana's long history with PRS Guitars, the limited-run Carlos Santana Abraxas SE is named in honor of Santana's acclaimed second album, Abraxas which mixed Latin influences and rock themes. It is considered by many to be Santana's pivotal work. The guitar features a whitewash finish with a graphic from Abraxas, and a peace sign at the 12th fret. Abraxas SE models have a mahogany body, mahogany neck, rosewood fretboard, single soapbar pickup in the bridge position, and volume control only.

PRS Debuts Starla X

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Paul Reed Smith Guitars is pleased to debut the Starla X, the newest model in the Mira/Starla series. The Starla X's retro inspired design and appointments appeal to players in search of instruments with 241/2" scale length, PRS craftsmanship and build-quality but with unique aesthetics and tone. Features include Singlecut, flat obeche body with arm carve, 22-fret sipo wide fat neck, rosewood fretboard, pearloid dot inlays, traditional 2-piece stoptail bridge, vintage style tuners, volume & tone control, and a three-way blade switch. Mira X Treble and Bass pickups are standard with optional soapbar pickups. Available colors include Vintage Cherry, Black and Sepia Burst as well as new colors such as Cardinal Red, Grandma Hannon Pink, Lime Green, Orange Zest, and Powder Blue. Learn more at prsguitars.com.

PRS Marks 25 Years with Ltd Dragon, Acoustics

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
The PRS Dragon is one the most coveted PRS models ever developed. In celebration of the model and in honor of PRS Guitars' upcoming 25th anniversary, a 25th Anniversary Dragon model featuring a new dragon fretboard with exotic multi-material inlay will be available later this year. The headstock will feature a green ripple abalone Modern Eagle with a black composite shadow veneer. Appointment highlights include 24 frets, 24.5" scale length, rosewood neck and fingerboard, carved flame-maple Private Stock top and African striped mahogany back wood. The guitar will feature the new 59/09 Treble and Bass pickups and a PRS vibrato. The body shape and electronics for the 25th Anniversary Dragon are modeled after one of Paul Smith's early guitars which was most recently featured on the Howard Leese Private Stock guitar released in 2009. Dragon models painted by artist Jeff Beasley are planned as part of this exclusive run. The company is also offering a limited run of 25th Anniversary Acoustics with AAAA spruce tops, Madagascar rosewood backs and sides, Brazilian fingerboard and bridge, 25th anniversary bird spanning between the 11th and 13th fret, mammoth ivory, rare curly mahogany neck, and a proprietary pickup system. Check them out at prsguitars.com.

PRS Offers Limited McCarty SC, DC 245

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
PRS Guitars is honoring its legendary mentor with the new limited production Ted McCarty SC and DC 245 models. Made in the spirit of the original PRS Sunburst Series, the two models feature a short 241/2" scale, special bound fretboard, original PRS birds, Santana headstock shape with curly maple veneer and 1957/2008 pickups or optional Soapbar pickups. Visit an authorized PRS dealer for more details.

Santana, Guy Perform at PRS Experience

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Signature Club members and other VIP Experience PRS 2009 guests were treated to a special surprise at Paul Reed Smith Guitars' headquarters in Stevensville, Maryland. Carlos Santana and Buddy Guy performed to an intimate crowd of 800 who were completely unaware that either of these guitar legends would be part of the show. The secret performance served as the official kick-off for the annual two-day open house that PRS Guitars held on September 25 and 26, 2009. More than 1,700 people from around the world turned out for the main event that featured clinics, seminars, factory tours, archive guitar presentations, demonstrations by PRS craftsmen and performances by more than a dozen PRS artists. Guests also learned the basics on staining and carving guitar tops during interactive displays. A long list of models were announced as being discontinued as well, including the Custom 22 and the current paisley amp covering, which will change from year-to-year. "Now is the time in our careers as luthiers, musicians and craftsman to really shine. We could be just weathering the economic storm, but our collective passion at PRS Guitars is driving us to make the best musical instruments possible every single day. We want to create our best so you can have our best," said Paul Reed Smith. With that message in mind, PRS has also announced several new instruments. New electric and acoustic guitar models were introduced along with two new amp models and the new 25th Anniversary line of PRS guitars. A limited number of 25th Anniversary model PRS guitars will be in stores this fall preceding the official celebration in 2010. Santana and Guy shared the stage playing three of these brand new PRS instruments - Santana on the newly released 25th Anniversary Santana model and the limited edition Carlos Santana SE One Abraxas model and Guy on a brand new PRS 305 model. Also shown were models featuring newly developed 57/08 Narrow Field pickups, explained by Paul to "sound nothing like any other pickup available today." Guy and Santana also shared the stage with The PRS Band including Paul Smith, Gary Grainger on bass, Greg Grainger on drums, Mike Ault on guitar, Derek St. Holmes on vocals as well as other special musical guests. Celtic acoustic guitar virtuoso Tony McManus commenced the night's performances. Dweezil Zappa performed as Zappa Plays Zappa on Friday night with earlier performances by John Wesley and Steven Wilson of Porcupine Tree, and Aussie Rockers Electric Mary. Following his Friday performance, Dweezil was invited to visit the recently opened Private Stock wood library inside of PRS's new facilitywhere he selected special wood and materials to be used in his own Private Stock PRS guitar. The lineup Saturday night included Nicky Moroch (David Sanborn), Howard Leese (Heart), Jim McCarty (Cactus), Johnny Hiland, Nick Catanese (Black Label Society) Mike Scott (Justin Timberlake), Bugs Henderson, David Grissom, Simon McBride, Howard Leese and Bernie Marsden of White Snake. The event, in its third year, is free to guitar aficionados with an invitation from an authorized PRS dealer.

Ace Frehley Guests At Hollywood Rock Fantasy Camp

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
With back-to-school season in full swing, Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp is giving music fans the opportunity to learn from some of the most influential artists in the industry. Multi-Platinum, GRAMMY® award winning rock icon Meat Loaf will headline the November 2009 sessions. One of the most distinctive vocalists in rock history, Meat Loaf has sold over 70 million albums in a career spanning four decades. Bat Out Of Hell - the first album in his legendary trilogy - has alone sold more than 40 million copies, stayed on the charts for over nine years and routinely sells upwards of 200,000 copies annually. Meat Loaf, who has been recording a new album with producer Rob Cavallo (Dave Matthews Band, Green Day), will share some of his wisdom with those attending Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp. So is the singer nervous about teaching? He told us. "Oh no, I'm not nervous. I've been doing this 42 years, I know what I'm doing. If I went to fantasy law school or fantasy science school, yeah, I'd be in trouble." Jon Anderson, lead vocalist for Yes, and lead guitarist Ace Frehley, a founding member of KISS, are two of the very special guest stars slated to appear at the November sessions and many of the camp's favorite counselors will be returning, including Rami Jaffee (Foo Fighters), Mark Hudson (producer/songwriter, Aerosmith), Elliot Easton (The Cars), Kenny Aronoff (John Fogerty), Danny Seraphine (Chicago), Bruce Kulick (KISS), Rudy Sarzo (Quiet Riot, Ozzy Osbourne), Share Ross (Vixen) and Teddy Andreadis (Guns 'n' Roses). Ron Nevison, producer/engineer for The Who, The Rolling Stones and Lynyrd Skynyrd, will be a guest. "Although I can't mention him by name, I'm ecstatic to announce that we've secured a legendary guitarist from one of rock's most renowned bands to come and jam with the campers this November - and perform live with them at the Whisky A Go Go on closing night," says David Fishof, Producer, Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp. Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp is offering several options designed to suit a wide range of budgets and schedules - from a three-day camp (November 12-15) and a five-day camp (November 17-22) to the special "Rock Legend" package, which will encompass both camps plus the Rock 'n' Roll Golf Experience. Fans can also sign up for the golf tournament only and campers may bring a spouse with the reasonably priced "Groupie Package." Financing is available. See below for a recap of new packages that make Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp more affordable than ever. The camp's spring 2009 session with special guests Steven Tyler, Duff McKagan, Todd Rundgren and numerous other rock stars sold out, so campers are encouraged to sign up early. Since 1997, Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp has been giving individuals - regardless of their musical ability - a once-a-lifetime opportunity to live like a rock star and jam with their idols. From the opening night party at the Gibson Showroom in Beverly Hills, intensive rehearsals with rock star counselors and jams, master classes and Q&A's with rock legends to recording an original song at the historic Capitol Studios with legendary engineer/producer Eddie Kramer (Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix) and rocking the Sunset Strip's Whisky A Go Go in a sold-out, closing night performance - it's a dream come true for any music fan. Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp has been covered by the "Today" show, "Good Morning America," USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, Travel & Leisure and was even featured in an episode of "The Simpsons." The first 2010 sessions are also on sale. Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp will return to Hollywood, CA over Presidents Day weekend (with a choice of February 10-15 or February 12-15) followed by a session at Abbey Road Studios in London, England May 25th - 31st. To register for any of the sessions or to learn more, visit http://www.rockcamp.com or call 1-888-762-BAND. For more, visit: rockcamp.com/.

Slipknot Set for Fangoria Halloween Party

Sat, 26 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Fangoria Entertainment, publisher of the worlds best-selling horror magazine and industry leader of all things horror since 1979, is proud to announce the FANGORIA TRINITY OF TERRORS---a brand new multi-media horror event presented in association with 5B Artist Management and sponsored by Hot Topic, Vegas.com and Coffin Case. The extravaganza fittingly takes place Halloween weekend, beginning Friday, October 30th and running through Sunday evening, November 1st at the beautiful Palms Casino Resort, home of Las Vegas' premier musical venue, the Pearl Concert Theater. This unparalleled event will feature celebrity appearances, as well as signings, screenings, vendors, exhibitors, panel discussions, special FX make-up applications, video gaming, tattooing, collectibles, special VIP parties and much more. This all builds up to the special Halloween night performance in the Pearl Concert Theater by multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning alternative metal masters, SLIPKNOT. Perhaps the most electrifying and dangerous band on the planet, they promise a truly unforgettable performance on Halloween night. Guests appearing at the event include such titans as Roger Corman (DEATH RACE 2000, THE PIT AND THE PENDULUM), Malcolm McDowell(A CLOCKWORK ORANGE, ROB ZOMBIES HALLOWEEN), George A. Romero (NIGHT/DAWN/DAY OF THE DEAD), John Waters (PINK FLAMINGOS, SEED OF CHUCKY), Fairuza Balk (THE CRAFT, AMERICAN HISTORY X), Jeffrey Combs (RE-ANIMATOR, THE FRIGHTENERS), Ken Foree (DAWN OF THE DEAD, THE DEVILS REJECTS)Tony Todd (CANDYMAN, THE CROW), Dee Wallace (THE HOWLING, CUJO) and many many more. As to the panel discussions and film screenings, this isn't your typical convention "panel room viewing"--panels and film screenings will be presented in the beautiful Brenden Theatres auditoriums, featuring state- of-the-art projection and sound. Brenden has 14 auditoriums at the Palms, equipped with IMAX, 3D and more. They are also the home of the renowned CineVegas Film Festival. Over a dozen new films will be screened, including Ti Wests latest terrifying frightfest THE HOUSE OF THE DEVIL, the critically acclaimed documentary NIGHTMARES IN RED, WHITE AND BLUE and the world premiere of DARK HOUSE, starring Jeffrey Combs. Tickets are available online at the events official website http://www.trinityofterrors.com and through Vegas.com, as well as all its service locations throughout the Las Vegas area.

Petty, Heartbreakers to Release Live Anthology

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers and Reprise Records will release The Live Anthology, a multiple-disc set of recordings drawn from 30 years of live performances. The collection brings together material from 1978-2007 culled from hundreds of hours of live concert recordings covering every era of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' tours and represents the best tracks as chosen by producers Tom Petty, Mike Campbell, and Ryan Ulyate. The Live Anthology will come in multiple configurations including a five-CD collector's deluxe box set available only at Best Buy that will include a first-of-its-kind audio-only Blu-ray disc. The collector's deluxe package will be in Best Buy stores on November 22. All other configurations will be in stores and available online November 24. The Live Anthology comes on the heels of two tours, the Grammy winning documentary Runnin' Down A Dream (directed by Peter Bogdanovich), and a headline performance at the Super Bowl XLII halftime show. Now, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - one of rock and roll's greatest touring bands - will mark their unparalleled string of successes with the release of this landmark collection of live recordings that is unlike anything previously available-the band's story told through the music alone. The producers made no fixes or overdubs, letting the newly-mixed original recordings showcase the invention, spontaneity, craft, and the musicianship that has made Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers among the most celebrated live performers of their time. Along with powerful interpretations of their own classic hits and originals, The Live Anthology features the band tackling some of their best-loved cover material, from classics to obscure beauties to unexpected adaptations. The theme from Goldfinger, the Zombies' "I Want You Back Again," the Grateful Dead's "Friend of the Devil," early Fleetwood Mac's "Oh Well," Booker T. and the MGs' "Green Onions," James Brown's "Good, Good Lovin'" and many more. Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers travel wide, paying their musical debts through song and showing just how confidently the band moves across genres and over time. The Live Anthology will be available in five configurations featuring artwork and packaging by contemporary artist Shepard Fairey.

IBMA Fan Fest Celebrates Bluegrass Music

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
-Bluegrass music's premier indoor festival is just around the corner! Bluegrass fans will want to reserve their tickets as soon as possible for IBMA's Bluegrass Fan Fest, scheduled for October 2-4 at the Nashville Convention Center. The star-studded finale of World of Bluegrass Week (Sept. 28 - Oct. 4) will present the talents of more than 60 acts on three stages. Fan Fest sponsors include Special Design Health Care, Martha White, Martin Guitars, Pinecastle Records, Knee Deep in Bluegrass, WSM-AM 650 and The Tennessean. In addition to the exciting music and opportunities to interact with artists face-to-face after they perform, Fan Fest attendees will enjoy visiting a bluegrass music-themed exhibit hall with more than 100 booths, taking part in a number of special promotions and giveaways, and of course jamming with musicians of all ages and levels of expertise. Proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Bluegrass Trust Fund, established to help bluegrass professionals during times of emergency need, as well as support IBMA's educational and marketing efforts during the rest of the year. All artists appearing at Fan Fest donate their time and talents for the cause. Performing artists include Dailey & Vincent, The Del McCoury Band, The Grascals, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Dale Ann Bradley, Cherryholmes, A Carter Family Tribute, and many more. For more, visit ibma.org.

David Crowder Band Releasing Church Music

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
As their new album hits stores today, electronic rock group the David Crowder Band are storming the internet and making their mark early on the charts. The 17 tracks on Church Music may not be what you expect sonically when you think of one of Christian music's leading bands. The album even includes a unique cover of hard rock act Flyleaf's hit "All Around Me," and features Flyleaf lead singer Lacey Mosely and the Dupree sisters from Eisley singing background vocals on various tracks. The six-piece, known for their mix of ambient and infectious electro-rock, kicked off their nationwide tour with a sold-out show last night in their hometown of Waco, TX. On Thursday, September 24 they'll hit the Roxy Theatre in Los Angeles for a sold-out show before jumping back on the road in October for intimate shows across the U.S. On November 13, they'll headline Terminal 5 in New York City. Learn more at davidcrowderband.com.

Jet, Papa Roach to Co-Headline Tour

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Rock bands Papa Roach and Jet will usher in Winter 2009 with a co-headlining tour of the U.S. The affordable and eclectic rock show with a festival feel starts off in late October through the end of November and offers four bands for less than forty dollars. Fans will be treated to no less than fourteen hits in one night, which will include radio smashes like Papa Roach's "Last Resort," "Forever," "Scars," "Lifeline" (which remained at #1 on the Mainstream Rock chart for 9 weeks) and Jet's "Are You Gonna Be My Girl," "Cold Hard Bitch," "Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is" and their latest, "She's A Genius." Tickets to the first two announced dates go on sale Friday (September 25) for the show in St. Paul, MN at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium on November 5, and Saturday (September 26) for the show in Denver, at the Ogden Theatre on October 26. Known for their electrifying live shows, Papa Roach have been touring nonstop behind their new album and fifth studio recording, Metamorphosis, which debuted at #8 on the Billboard Album Chart earlier this year. Fresh from the road alongside fellow powerhouse Nickelback, frontman Jacoby Shaddix says, "Playing shows every night is what we're built for. We make a club feel like an arena and we make an arena feel like a club." Indeed Hit Parader raves, "Papa Roach's live energy is like a pack of wild horses - unbridled and uncontainable." Just returning from traveling twice around the world to set up their new album, Shaka Rock, Jet are primed for their first major U.S. tour to promote the record. The new album closes the gap between the raw roots of Get Born and the grace and melody of Shine On which together went on to make Jet an international band of style and substance. After four million albums sold worldwide and four Top Ten Modern Rock and Rock hits, the authentic Aussie rockers have returned to form with an album that parallels their smash, Get Born. "We have been going non-stop to bring this album to our fans and we just want to keep going. It's just so good to be out on the road playing our new music. The band expects to 'tour our asses off' for at least the next 18 months," said Jet's drummer Chris Cester. A complete list of tour dates and on-sale's will be announced shortly. For more, go to paparoach.com and JETtheband.com/.

DePedro Hits the Road with Federico Aubele

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
DePedro a name chosen because it sounded kind of Mediterranean, kind of Spanish is the musical project of singer and guitarist Jairo Zavala. His first solo album, DePedro (National Geographic Music), is the culmination of years of writing and playing songs for others, including Amparanoia, Vacazul, Los Coronas and Calexico. Zavala grew up in Madrid listening to both the pre-WWII songs his grandparents used to play and the music his Peruvian father brought back from his travels to Latin America and Africa, as well the rock from the 70s and 80s that was popular in Spain. He credits these various influences for helping to shape his own style of guitar playing, one that pulled from blues, folk, flamenco, Afrobeat, Latin, and rock. Federico Aubele was born and raised in Buenos Aires. He moved to Berlin in 2001 during the height of Argentina's economic and political crisis. Later moving to Barcelona before returning to Buenos Aires. While in Berlin Aubele signed with ESL Music (Thievery Corporation) and made his debut in 2003 with three double-sided 10" vinyl EPs. His first full-length album, Gran Hotel Buenos Aires, hit in 2004. Followed by Panamericana in 2007. Aubele's music blends a variety of styles: Jamaican dub/reggae, American ambient and hip-hop and Argentine tango. But the spirit of bolero, especially the rough-and-ready, heartfelt ballads of the 1940s, forms the backbone of his newest album Amatoria, harkening back to his childhood in Buenos Aires.

Wariner to be Inducted to Thumbpickers HoF

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Grammy-winning guitarist, recording artist and songwriter Steve Wariner will receive another accolade when he is inducted into the National Thumbpickers Hall of Fame during the organization's 12th annual induction ceremony. The induction will take place September 25 at the Merle Travis Music Center in Powderly, Kentucky. In addition, Wariner's current homage to Chet Atkins, Steve Wariner, c.g.p., My Tribute to Chet Atkins, has been named Thumbpicking Recording of the Year. "I've been a thumbpicker since my dad taught me when I was young," said Wariner. "In my later years I was lucky enough to play with Chet Atkins, Jerry Reed and Paul Yandell. Receiving this honor is because of them. It's an incredible honor for me to join the esteemed ranks of the Thumbpickers Hall of Fame." Other inductees this year include Richard Smith and Chip Young. Members of the National Thumbpickers Hall of Fame include Wariner's friend and mentor Chet Atkins, Merle Travis, Jerry Reed, Paul Yandell, Doc Watson, Grandpa Jones, John Knowles, John Hartford, and Joe Maphis, among others. Muhlenberg County is considered the birthplace of thumbpicking, also called fingerpicking, a style of guitar playing in which the thumb maintains a steady rhythm by alternating bass patterns on the lower three strings, while the other fingers play melody and fill-in notes on the high strings. Learn more at ntphf.com.

REO Speedwagon Set to Release, Not So Silent Night...

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
REO Speedwagon will release a new Christmas album, Not So Silent Night...Christmas With REO Speedwagon, October 27 on Sony Legacy. Produced by Joe Vannelli, along with associate producer and lead singer Kevin Cronin, the album will feature 13 Christmas classics with an REO musical twist. "We are really excited to bring something brand new for our fans to enjoy with their families, just in time for the holidays," said Cronin. "We are as proud and passionate about this project as we have been about any album we have ever made. We hope this music is as much fun for fans to listen to as it has been for us to create. The holiday spirit is alive in the REO family, and we wish the same for yours." After being inspired to create an album unlike anything they have before, original members, Kevin Cronin, Bruce Hall, and Neal Doughty, and 20-year REO veterans Dave Amato and Bryan Hitt, were excited to put together the band's first Christmas album. They gave these classics the full REO production treatment, providing a unique spin for the yuletide season. By choosing 13 songs that range from the most traditional carols to some more obscure songs, this album reflects the REO Speedwagon holiday spirit. Not So Silent Night is poised to be a very special Christmas album that will bring generations within families together to rock the holiday nights away. In the spirit of the holidays, REO Speedwagon will be donating all artist royalties from "Happy Xmas (War is Over)" to the John Lennon Foundation. Tracklist: The First Noel Winter Wonderland Silent Night Deck the Halls Little Drummer Boy The White Snows of Winter Angels We Have Heard on High Happy Xmas (War is Over) God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen Blue Christmas I'll Be Home for Christmas Children Go Where I Send Thee Joy to the World

Beck, Clapton to Play 02 Arena

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Jeff Beck and Eric Clapton announced today an eagerly anticipated collaboration at the 02 Arena London on February 13, 2010. In what will be one of the must see shows of this decade Beck and Clapton will perform together and apart. The duo have shared the stage at Festivals and benefits previously, but the Japan shows at the Saitama Super Arena marked the first time they had shared the bill at a major arena. Both artists admitted to having a fantastic time on stage together and press gave rave reviews. The concerts were so spectacular for the musicians and fans alike, that the two decided to team up again at London's prestigious 02 Arena. "Eric and I played together in Japan earlier this year and had a blast. Since then we have been in regular contact and talked about doing a similar show for our fans. Looking forward to the show in 2010," said Jeff Beck. "I've always considered Jeff Beck to be one of the finest guitar players around. He's a friend, a great guy, and a truly gifted musician. We had such a fun time in Japan that it seemed natural to play together again," said Eric Clapton. Beck has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice and Clapton is the only artist to be inducted three times. Their musical paths are linked together by the Yardbirds - a band that Clapton left in 1965 and his replacement, ironically, was Jeff Beck. Since those days, Beck and Clapton have remained friends, but have only performed together a few times over the years for an occasional song at a charity event. Now, more than 40 years after the Yardbirds disbanded, the two will join together on the same stage. The duo has said that no exact set list has been discussed but they plan to each do their own respective sets followed by a joint set that is expected to be longer than their first shows in Japan. Beck is recording his first studio album in five years, with Trevor Horne and Steve Lipson producing. Clapton just completed a sold-out North American tour with former Blind Faith band member Steve Winwood.

Vai Releases Where the Wild Things Are

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Steve Vai will release a new concert film and live CD, Where The Wild Things Are, September 29 on Favored Nations Records. The show was recorded and filmed at the State Theatre, in Minneapolis, on his Sound Theories world tour. The set contains several new tracks and re-orchestrated pieces culled from his catalog, including "The Murder." Visit vai.com.

Lotus Announce NYE Run in Philly, Fall Tour

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Lotus has announced a New Year's eve run in Pennsylvania that will culminate with an epic New Year's Eve Show with MSTRKRFT at Philadelphia's Electric Factory. Leading up to the big night, the band will stop at Mr. Smalls Theatre (Pittsburgh) on 12/29 and The Note (West Chester, PA) on 12/30, both with support act Tigersapien. The New Year's Eve announcement comes as Lotus prepare to hit the road for a full season of touring. Along their Fall Tour, Lotus will break ground in a way that no other rock band has done prior - they are plotting a tour this fall that truly allows their legion of fans to pay-what-they-want for tickets. The Pay-What-You-Want-Tour featuring Lotus is an eight night run of shows in western U.S. states, sponsored by Ticketweb, that lets the fans decide how much their show ticket will cost. At the $15.00 Pay-What-You-Want level or higher, fans receive free digital downloads of the band's two new EPs Feather on Woodand Oil on Glass, both to be released on October 6, 2009. The Pay-What-You-Want dates are part of Lotus' larger Fall Tour, running from early-October through the end of the year. Big stops include performances at Denver's Fillmore, NYC's Terminal 5 (w/ support acts RJD2 and Junior Boys DJ set), Baltimore's Sonar, Chicago's Vic Theatre, the Electric Factory in Philly for New Year's Eve and others. Lotus brings out several must-see opening acts for many of these shows, including Break Science feat Adam Dietch, The Egg (from London, UK), Big in Japan, Big Gigantic, RJD2, Junior Boys, and more. Don't miss a few special small shows: here's the scoop - the Denver Fillmore show is being bundled with the Quixote's show (to get into Quixotes, you must buy the Fillmore ticket), and also, for New Years, Lotus presents another "bundled" show at The Note in West Chester, PA (to purchase a ticket for The Note, you must purchase a bundled Electric Factory ticket). Downloads of both new EPs will be bundled with advance ticket purchases for select Fall Tour dates including the two Denver shoFeather on Wood and Oil on Glass can be directly traced back to Lotus' 2008 full-length release, Hammerstrike. A number of songs were recorded that didn't find their way onto Hammerstrike (either they hadn't been finished by deadlines or they weren't coalescing with the sound of that project), but after finishing the album, Lotus decided to revisit these tracks, and the results are extraordinary. Feather on Wood is sunnier with a laid-back vibe, yet not afraid of big rock beauty, while Oil on Glass is darker in character, with more head-nodding tempos. For more, visit www.lotusvibes.com.

Wariner Nominated for Instrumentalist of the Year

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Multi-talented Steve Wariner has been nominated for a Nashville Music Award in the Instrumentalist of the Year category. Other nominees in the group are Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Jeff Taylor and Jack White. "It's awesome to be nominated with such a great group of other players that I admire so much," said Wariner, who won a Nashville Music Award for Instrumental Album of the Year in 1997 for No More Mr. Nice Guy. The Nashville Music Awards have been revived this year in a partnership between Next Big Nashville and Leadership Music, Inc. Originally produced by Leadership Music and presented from 1995-2000, the awards recognize excellence in all genres of music. The public is invited to vote for the Nashville Music Awards by visiting nashvillemusicawards.com. Online balloting continues until September 30. Winners will be announced at a reception at the Cannery Ballroom on October 7, the first night of Next Big Nashville.

Vai Gets Honorary Degree

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Musicians Institute awarded an honorary Doctor of Music degree to legendary rock guitarist, recording artist, producer, and composer Steve Vai. The award was officially conferred during MI's summer graduation ceremony held on September 18 at LA's Wiltern Theatre. After first achieving prominence as guitarist for the late Frank Zappa, Vai has gone on to win multiple Grammys, repeatedly top critics' and readers' polls, and earn gold and platinum records while becoming the personification of contemporary guitar virtuosity. "Steve has not only inspired countless musicians around the world and played a major role in the evolution of modern rock guitar, he also embodies MI's ideal of the artist-educator who combines relentless pursuit of his creative vision with a sense of responsibility for mentoring the next generation," said Beth Marlis, MI's Vice President of Education. For more, visit vai.com.

Voodoo Experience Fest Adds Acts

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Jello Biafra and the Guantanamo School Of Medicine, along with K'Naan, are the latest acts to join the line-up for the 2009 VOODOO EXPERIENCE. The addition of Biafra--one of the founding fathers of west coast hardcore punk who is also a spoken word artist/political activist--and K'Naan, a Somali-Canadian poet/rapper/musician, continue to underline the VOODOO EXPERIENCE's commitment to offer their audience one of the most diverse musical experiences in America. The acts join a line-up that includes Eminem, in his first full performance in over four years and only scheduled concert of 2009; KISS, one of the most influential and successful rock and roll bands of all-time; the reunited Jane's Addiction, with all of the original members for their last scheduled U.S. date in 2009; along with Widespread Panic, who'll perform as part their annual Halloween tradition (1997-2002) of live shows in the city; and Lenny Kravitz, who will close out the weekend's musical melting pot. Learn more at thevoodooexperience.com.

Tone Box Skull Crusher Effect

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Tone Box, Inc.'s Skull Crusher has a stainless steel body with red and blue LEDs that illuminate when activated. The pedal offers eight analog voicing's and can be used with guitar, bass or any other musical instrument. On the back of the head are controls for Voicing, Tone, and Gain. The Voicing knob allows the musician to select from four presets labeled as Clear (3dB up), Ice (11 dB up), Chains (15dB up) and Body (18 dB up). Combine these four with the 10 dB Boost and the artist now has eight voices to create his wildest dreams. Production models are available in four finishes: gun metal, stainless steel, aged and ancient. Also available are custom precious metal models in 24k gold and sterling silver.Visit thetonebox.com

Mary Travers Passes

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Mary Travers, one-third of the '60s folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary, died Wednesday after battling leukemia for years. She was 72. Travers was born November 9, 1936, in Kentucky. Her family moved to Manhattan's bohemian Greenwich Village, where she developed friendships with folk performers like the Weavers, and was began performing with Pete Seeger. She is survived by her husband, Ethan Robbins and daughters, Alicia and Erika.

Queensryche To Enlist Services of Lita Ford for American Soldier Tour

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Queensryche, which as been touring since late March in support of their newest effort American Soldier -- will be taking The Queen of Heavy Metal, Lita Ford, on the road with them for over two dozen dates beginning October 15th (see full itinerary below). Ford will hit the stage during the Queensryche set to perform three songs including her Top 10 Billboard hit (performed with Ozzy Osbourne), "Close My Eyes Forever," which she will duet withQueensryche front man Geoff Tate. For all songs, Lita will be backed byQueensryche -- Geoff Tate on vocals, Michael Wilton and Parker Lundgren on guitars, Eddie Jackson on bass and Scott Rockenfield on drums. "We're elated to have Lita Ford performing with us," comments Geoff Tate. "I have been a fan of Lita's as long as I can remember and look forward to the upcoming tour with her." The feeling is mutual as Lita comments, "I'm so excited about how we're doing this tour. It's a really cool way to do a show. I'm looking forward to getting out there and seeing my fans again as well as meeting Queensryche's fans. It should be a real fun time for all." Earlier this month, the video forQueensryche's new single, "Home Again," made its worldwide debut on Military.com (the largest military and veteran membership organization) and can now be seen on the band's website. The video features photos submitted by service members from all over the world. As for the song, itself, it's become a fan favorite along the tour. Performed by Geoff Tate and his 11-year-old daughter Emily, "Home Again" examines the emotional toll of war from two perspectives -- Geoff singing from the soldier's point of view and Emily singing the point of view of the child left behind. Prior to the performances with Lita Ford,Queensryche will be joining Chickenfoot (Sammy Hagar, Michael Anthony, Joe Satriani and Chad Smith) beginning Friday, September 25th, for three consecutive California performances in Berkeley, Valley Center and Universal City, respectively. Also on the Queensryche horizon is the forthcoming ShipRocked Cruise. Learn more at QUEENSRYCHE.com.

Flaming Lips On "Colbert Report" Tonight

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
The world's most unpredictable and entertaining experimental rock band, The Flaming Lips, are gearing up for a busy fall. First up, the band will appear tonight on Comedy Central's "The Colbert Report" which at 11:30 p.m. ET. Check local listings for details. The Lips' new album, Embryonic, will be available online after the show.

Carl Verheyen To Release New Project

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Carl Verheyen is releasing his new rock masterpiece on September 25 on Cranktone Entertainment via www.theconneXtion.com. Trading 8s is Verheyen's tenth studio album to date and is an impressive musical collection that showcases his endless talents. Trading 8s, which literally means trading 8-bar phrases with another soloist, raises the excitement level as each player is challenged to respond musically. "It was in this spirit - not the dueling or cutting session mentality - that I approached the making of Trading 8s," explains Verheyen. "I chose heroes and old friends, mentors and inspirational icons, peers and trailblazers, to record these songs with me. That passion was there from the first note to the last and I believe we created the most inspiring CD I've done to date. I tracked with my road-tested touring band of bass player Dave Marotta and drummer Walfredo Reyes, Jr., with additional support on B-3 and piano from Jim Cox. And the result: I'm extremely proud of this record and the contributions from the soloists - Steve Morse, Joe Bonamassa, Rick Vito, Scott Henderson, Robben Ford and Albert Lee." In his 40-plus years of playing the instrument, Verheyen has created a wildly successful, multi-faceted career. In addition to his solo work, he has been one of LA's elite "first call" session players for the past 25 years, playing on hundreds of records, movie soundtracks and television shows. As a member and featured soloist of the British rock group Supertramp since 1985, Verheyen has played to millions of enthusiastic fans in sold out arenas worldwide. As the creative force behind The Carl Verheyen Band, he has released an impressive and eclectic discography that showcases his endless talents across a wide array of musical genres. Trading 8s is a true rock record fused with the blues, as in the song "New Year's Day" with Robben Ford. Some jazz fusion tones can be felt in "Highway 27" featuring Joe Bonamassa. The CD also includes a ripping version of The Beatles' hit song "Taxman" as you've never heard it before. For morem go to carlverheyen.com.

Rob Zombie Rolling on Hellbilly Deluxe 2 Tour

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
The Hellbilly Returns! The Master of monster mayhem Rob Zombie will be destroying a city near you beginning this October 29th on The HELLBILLY DELUXE 2 TOUR. Not since 1998's super smash triple platinum HELLBILLY DELUXE has Zombie hit the road under that moniker. So get ready to scream! This will be Zombie's first headline tour since 2007 and will have other ghoulish delights in tow including openers Nekromantix and Captain Clegg & the Night Creatures last seen rocking Haddonfield and Michael Myers in Zombie's new film HALLOWEEN 2. The tour will usher in Zombie's forthcoming album HELLBILLY DELUXE 2 - Noble Jackals, Penny Dreadfuls and the Systematic Dehumanization of Cool (Geffen), a companion to 1998 original. The tour will blasts off with Phoenix, AZ on October 29th, Las Vegas, NV on the 30th, and a very special Halloween event on the 31st in Hollywood, CA hosted by Uncle Seymour Coffins also seen recently in HALLOWEEN 2. Zombie will be accompanied by his longtime band mates -guitarist John 5, bassist Piggy D, and drummer Tommy Clufetos. The HELLBILLY DELUXE 2 TOUR will mark Zombie's return to the road after much box office success as the writer and director of HALLOWEEN 2 (Dimension). His R-rated, animated feature, THE HAUNTED WORLD OF EL SUPERBEASTO, will also be available everywhere on DVD and Blu-ray September 22nd. "I am bouncing off the walls like a mental patient", says Zombie "That tells me it's time to take it to the stage and let the demons loose." Selling over fifteen million albums worldwide, Zombie is one of Geffen Record's top selling and the longest running artists on the label. He has written and directed five feature length films, directed dozens of high profile music videos, contributed recordings to multiple soundtracks, and authored several comic books. HALLOWEEN 2 (2009) took hold of the box office recently, following-up his record breaking blockbuster re-imagining of HALLOWEEN in 2007. In 2005, Zombie assaulted the film world with the critically-acclaimed THE DEVIL'S REJECTS (Lionsgate), the follow-up to his already cult classic HOUSE OF 1,000 CORPSES (Lionsgate 2004). For more, go to www.robzombie.com.

Powerman 5000 Set to Release New Disc

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Futuristic metallists Powerman 5000 have been plotting their next move for the past few years, and their latest step towards a global takeover is upon us, in the form of Somewhere on the Other Side of Nowhere. The album will drop from the solar system on October 6th (via Mighty Loud!/Fontana), and as judged by such song titles as "Super Villain," "V is for Vampire," "Horror Show," and "Get your Bones," Somewhere on the Other Side of Nowhere is bound to be another gnarly slice of PM5K. "We made this record with a clear vision and a purpose," explains frontman, Spider. "We wanted to reclaim a sound we created and represent certain influences as only a band like Powerman 5000 can. While writing, we would watch 'Godzilla' or 'Ultraman' films to ensure the sonics were on point. We knew that this record needed to sound like the footsteps of a giant robot!" "On the surface, this album is a big fun electro metal romp...though there are bigger concepts hidden within. A quote from HG Wells sums it up best, he said, 'Man is the unnatural animal, the rebel child of nature.' That is an ongoing theme in the songs, our inability to find a place in our own world. I couldn't be happier with the results. I finally feel like we have made a record that not only is exactly wanted we wanted it to be, but also a record that the fans are going to love!" Originally formed in 1991, PM5K has been led from the beginning by Spider (who also goes by the nom de plum "Spider One"). In the process, the group has built a large and loyal fanbase, on the strength of such hit albums as Tonight the Stars Revolt! and Transform (all of which landed in side the top 30 of the Billboard Album Charts), as well as the radio favorites "Supernova Goes Pop," "Nobody's Real," and "When Worlds Collide." Spider and company plan on hitting the road hard in support of their seventh release overall - get prepared for a total assault of the senses! Lean more, including tour dates, at powerman5000.com.

Armor Gold Adds Long Patch Cables

Sat, 12 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Armor Gold has added long pedal patch cables to their line. The 24", 32", and 40" are specifically designed for connecting the bottom row of pedals to the top row of pedals. These patch cables offer the same high sound quality, low noise, and extreme durability as Armor Gold's award-winning instrument cables. However, the outer mesh has been removed for increased flexibility, making these cables ideal for crowded pedalboards. Features include: G&H Show Saver Plugs (with copper core), double layer heat shrink, medium-low capacitance wire (33 pf), double shielding, and lifetime warranty. These are an excellent upgrade for any pedal set-up where high level durability and sound quality are required. For more info visit www.armorgoldcables.com.

Thirty Seconds To Mars New Disc Coming November 24

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Following up on their incredibly successful sophomore release, A Beautiful Lie, multi-platinum rock band Thirty Seconds To Mars are hard at work on their highly anticipated upcoming record, This is War (EMI's Virgin Records) set to hit on November 24th. The album was produced by Flood (U2, Depeche Mode, Nine Inch Nails), Steve Lillywhite (The Rolling Stones, U2) and Thirty Seconds To Mars. First single "Kings and Queens" at modern rock radio early next month. Fall tour dates will be announced in the coming weeks. In an innovative and exciting move, Thirty Seconds to Mars' upcoming release, This Is War, will have 2000 different album covers featuring individual photos of fans from around the world. Starting Thursday, September 10th at 12pm PDT fans will be able to submit photos to be used for the covers by pointing their browser to http://www.thirtysecondstomars.com. The first 2000 photos to be uploaded that follow the proper specifications will become album covers. The campaign will run until 2000 usable covers have been uploaded to thefaceofmars@gmail.com. Thirty Seconds To Mars' Jared Leto (vocals, guitar, songwriter), Shannon Leto (drums) and Tomo Miličević (guitar) teamed up with their fan community, The Echelon, earlier this year to record sounds for the upcoming record in a groundbreaking event they dubbed, "The Summit". The band invited The Echelon members to travel to Los Angeles to take part in an impromptu recording session at Hollywood's Avalon Club. It was so successful that since then Thirty Seconds to Mars decided to hold summits in 8 more countries across the world (Australia, Italy, Germany, France, Japan, Mexico, United Kingdom, Canada) in order to give their biggest supporters an opportunity to be a part of their new album. With over 100 million views on YouTube, 40 million plays on MySpace and more than one million fans on iLike/Facebook, Thirty Seconds To Mars have always been quick to embrace digital culture and with the immense success they had with The Summit, decided to use that same digital technology to offer their fans a chance to get involved in the record making process through Twitter as well. The Digital Summit kicked off on Monday, August 10th and through the twitvid.com technology allowed fans to record sounds and vocals from their personal computers and mobile devices for inclusion on the album. The Digital Summit was a top 10 trending topic on Twitter during the two week promotion, garnering sixty thousand page views and 3000 unique sound recordings submitted from fans across the world. Formed by brothers Jared and Shannon Leto, Thirty Seconds to Mars have won numerous awards and accolades, including an MTV Video Music Award, three MTV EMA's, an MTV Latin and Asia Award, a Fuse Award, and three Kerrang! Awards. Thirty Seconds to Mars' sophomore record, A Beautiful Lie hit platinum status after almost two years of heavy touring and winning fans over, one by one. The media caught on too, Alternative Press raved that the band "...just might be rock's best-kept secret. He [Jared Leto] sings with a range and ease that makes cathedrals jealous" while the Washington Post exclaimed, "hard-driving guitar riffs and powerful vocals carry this head banging outfit all the way to the rock-race finish line." The record spawned two Top 5 Modern Rock singles, "From Yesterday" and "The Kill" and the latter set a radio record for the longest-running hit in the history of Modern Rock radio play when it remained on the national airplay chart for more than 50 weeks following its #3 peak in 2006. "From Yesterday" was the band's first #1 at the format and its epic video was the first American music video ever shot in the People's Republic of China. Thirty Seconds To Mars have over 500 live performances under their belts since the release of A Beautiful Lie, including major festival shows like Lollapalooza in the United States, Holland's Pinkpop Festival and Japan's Summer Sonic, which has earned them a growing, loyal, global fan base. For More information on Thirty Seconds To Mars please visit http://www.thirtysecondstomars.com/

20th Annual Bluegrass Music Awards Show Happens October 1

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
The 20th Annual International Bluegrass Music Awards show, to be held on Thursday, October 1, at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Ryman Auditorium, promises an evening of stellar musical performances and many opportunities to recall highlights from past awards shows. The "can't miss" program includes the presentation of 17 industry awards that recognize outstanding achievement in the bluegrass genre during the past year, and the induction of The Lonesome Pine Fiddlers and The Dillards to the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame. The audience will be treated to performances by this year's hosts, Grammy®-winning country artist Kathy Mattea and the legendary bluegrass band, Hot Rize, as well as the following artists: Steve Martin with the Steep Canyon Rangers, Del McCoury, Dailey & Vincent, The Grascals, The Dan Tyminski Band, Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out, Lonesome River Band, Dale Ann Bradley, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper, G2 Bluegrass Band, The Gibson Brothers, Danny Paisley and Junior Sisk, and Sierra Hull & Highway 111. The show is also known for surprise guests and special collaborations.

Green Day Grabs Prima Donna for UK / European Tour

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Acetate Recording artists PRIMA DONNA have been selected by East Bay punk legends GREEN DAY as main support for their upcoming UK and Europe tour. The tour kicks off September 28 in Lisbon, Portugal and concludes November 12 in Turin, Italy, including dates in the U.K., Spain, France, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium, Scotland, Ireland, Austria and Switzerland. Racking up over 300 shows in their short existence, Prima Donna is known for their energetic live shows, wowing audiences across the US and Europe. Their 2008 debut release "After Hours" has been hailed as the second coming of 1970's glitter rock, ala New York Dolls and Mott the Hoople, with sharp, concise songwriting and sing along choruses. Green Day has long been supporters of the Los Angeles-based Prima Donna - lead singer Kevin Preston moonlights in the Green Day alter-ego garage rock quintet Foxboro Hot Tubs.

Christmas with Sinatra & Friends Due October 6

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Concord Records' upcoming release Christmas With Sinatra & Friends, features both classic and rare holiday songs by some of America's most treasured vocalists including Mel Tormé, Tony Bennett, Rosemary Clooney, Ray Charles, Betty Carter and of course Sinatra himself singing eight of the collection's 12 songs, licensed from Frank Sinatra Enterprises (FSE). The collection will be available October 6th, 2009. The choice Sinatra performances celebrated here were meticulously and thoughtfully selected to include both traditional and rare holiday tunes. Among the non-traditional are "Christmas Memories," by ace arranger and long-time Sinatra collaborator Don Costa with lyricists Alan & Marilyn Bergman and "An Old Fashioned Christmas," written by the legendary composers Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen. Jimmy Webb's "Whatever Happened to Christmas" and "Mistletoe and Holly," co-written by Sinatra himself will undoubtedly add to Sinatra's special place among seasonal favorites. Cahn and Van Heusen also wrote "The Christmas Waltz" the renowned ballad that Sinatra first recorded in 1957. Sinatra additionally offers Harry Simeone's "The Little Drummer Boy", Johnny Marks' "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day," (which set to music the poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow) and the beloved "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town," written in 1934 by J. Fred Coots and Haven Gillespie. For this collection, the Irving Berlin standard, "White Christmas" is sung by Frank's friend Rosemary Clooney, who co-starred in the 1954 film White Christmas. Also included are Mel Tormé's "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire"), which he composed at just 20 years old, "as well as Tony Bennett singing "A Child Is Born" with jazz pianist Bill Evans, and "Baby It's Cold Outside," Frank Loesser's famous and amusing duet from the '40s (an Oscar-winner from a 1949 Esther Williams film) sung here by the incomparable duo of Ray Charles and Betty Carter. For more , visit concordmusicgroup.com.

Stones Ya-Ya's 40th Anniversary and Deluxe Box Sets

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
November 26 and 27 mark the 40th anniversary of the recording of the Rolling Stones concerts at Madison Square Garden that yielded the epochal Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out!, the band's definitive live album. In recognition of that historic occasion when "The World's Greatest Rock 'n' Roll Band" played "The World's Greatest Stage," ABKCO Records will release Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out! The Rolling Stones In Concert - 40th Anniversary Deluxe Box Set and a Super Deluxe Box Set on November 3rd and November 17th respectively. The late Lester Bangs reviewing the original album in the November 12, 1970 issue of Rolling Stone wrote, "It's still too soon to tell, but I'm beginning to think Ya-Ya's just might be the best album they ever made. I have no doubt that it's the best rock concert ever put on record." The Deluxe Box Set comprises three audio CDs including a remastered disc of the original Ya-Ya's repertoire as well as a disc of five previously unreleased Stones tracks recorded at the same Madison Square Garden shows. The third CD encompasses unreleased performances by the shows' stellar openers: B.B. King and Ike & Tina Turner, five songs from the former and seven songs from the latter. The Box Set also includes a 56-page Collectors Edition book featuring photos and an essay by Ethan Russell, the acclaimed photographer who accompanied the Stones on the '69 tour, as well as the original Rolling Stone Magazine review by Lester Bangs and a series of recollections from a cross-section of fans who attended the concerts and a replica of the original Stones '69 tour poster by David Byrd. There will be a code in a limited number of Box Sets enabling fans to download "I'm Free" for Guitar Hero 5. Included as well is a bonus DVD by legendary filmmakers Albert and David Maysles, also entitled Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out! The film includes brilliantly shot full-length performances of the five previously unreleased Stones songs -- "Prodigal Son, " "You Gotta Move," "Under My Thumb," "I'm Free" and "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction." Beyond the song performances - presented in 5.1 surround sound -- the film includes a sequence with Mick Jagger, Charlie Watts and Jack the donkey during the cover shoot for the Ya-Ya's album and backstage tête-à-têtes between Keith Richards, Jimi Hendrix and Mick Taylor. During "Satisfaction" Janis Joplin is seen doing an impromptu boogaloo at the side of the stage. There is also a sequence shot at Olympic Studios in London during a mixing session plus a heliport summit meeting with the Grateful Dead. The film will have its world premiere at the New York Film Festival on September 26. The Super Deluxe edition of Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out! The Rolling Stones in Concert includes all of the content of the Deluxe edition with the addition of three vinyl LPs, one of which has etched images featuring the cover art and the Rolling Stones' signatures. The accompanying Collectors Edition Book and poster in the Super Deluxe edition have also been expanded to 12 x 12.

Taking Back Sunday, All-American Rejects Hit the Road

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Currently on different legs of the summer tour with Blink-182 and Weezer, Taking Back Sunday and The All-American Rejects will continue to entertain fans this fall by launching a co-headlining tour in early November. This is the first time New York quintet Taking Back Sunday has toured with Oklahoma's The All-American Rejects. Both bands have enjoyed immense success selling millions of albums and touring worldwide and they felt that the time was right to combine forces for a series of dates. Florida's Anberlin, who recently experienced some breakthrough success with a #1 Modern Rock hit off of their current album New Surrender will join the bill as support. Coming off of a sold-out world tour, multi-platinum recording artists, The All-American Rejects are keeping busy. The All-American Rejects' third CD When the World Comes Down is the follow-up to their double platinum release, Move Along. The first single "Gives You Hell" spent 4 weeks at #1 on the Billboard charts and sold over 3.2 million in digital downloads. The band has also been making the rounds on national television shows including The Today Show and The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien. Their current single, "I Wanna" just debuted at #32 on the top 40 Chart and is climbing fast. Next up, the group will headline the Chevy 400 NASCAR pre-race performance. They will then hit the stage at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards where they will perform with hip-hop artist Wale for a collaboration not to be missed! Taking Back Sunday are touring behind their fourth studio album, New Again which was the third consecutive Taking Back Sunday album to debut in the top 10 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart. The album was released by Warner Bros. Records on June 2nd and the band celebrated with a performance of their Top 10 Modern Rock hit "Sink Into Me" on Jimmy Kimmel Live. Produced by David Kahne, New Again has earned effusive critical praise. Rolling Stone declared the track "Sink Into Me," "the first song by an emo-pop band that the Foo Fighters wish they'd written: Catchy, lusty and sleekly propulsive." They have been playing to sold-out audiences for months and recently headlined the Bamboozle Festival in New Jersey with No Doubt to a crowd of over 30,000. The band premiered their new single "Where My Mouth Is" on MTV's It's On With Alexa Chung in August. The song goes to radio this month. For more, visit takingbacksunday.com and allamericanrejects.com

Jason Reeves Slates Tour

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Singer/songwriter Jason Reeves will hit the road for an acoustic tour this fall, performing select dates at several music festival, colleges, and nightclubs up and down the West Coast, including a stop at the Hotel Café in Los Angeles on November 12th. Reeves also recently opened a secret show for John Mayer at the Troubadour in Los Angeles. Reeves, a 23-year-old Iowa City native who was signed to Warner Bros. Records by WBR's Senior Vice President of A&R and current American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi, has been touring for the past year in support of his debut album, The Magnificent Adventures of Heartache (and Other Frightening Tales), which was released on September 9th, 2008, by Warner Bros. Records after selling briskly as an independent release in 2007 through Reeves' MySpace page. The album's hook-filled songs of love, hope, heartbreak, and renewal, matched with Reeves' engaging tenor voice, led iTunes to name Reeves one of the Top Indie Singer-Songwriters of 2007. Music fans may also know Reeves through his songwriting collaborations with breakthrough singer-songwriter Colbie Caillat. Reeves co-wrote 10 tracks on Caillat's platinum debut album Coco, including the smash hit singles "Bubbly" and "Realize," as well as 10 tracks on the deluxe edition of her new No. 1 album Breakthrough. He also co-wrote the international No. 1 hit "The Show" on singer-songwriter Lenka's debut album. Last spring, Reeves, and fellow musicians Brendan James and Amber Rubarth launched The Vespa Experiment - a two-week tour of the California coastline during which they rode Vespas up the coast with just the basics: camping gear, musical instruments, and a vision: to inspire young people to consider their impact on their environment. For more, visit jason-reeves.com.

Dusted Angel Sets Cali Dates

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Santa Cruz's jam-doom powerhouse Dusted Angel have announced several California shows, including a record release show with Crom and a killer show with The Accused! If you're in the vicinity of any of these shows, you're advised to make your way out for a neck-snapping night of doom-rock debauchery. 9/12/2009 The Nomad Gallery - Los Angeles, CA w/ Crom, Green and Wood 9/13/2009 R Bar - Los Angeles, CA w/ Destroy Judas 10/18/2009 The Blue - Santa Cruz, CA w/ The Accused, Serpent Crown, Teraton 11/04/2009 Blank Club - San Jose, CA 11/14/2009 Brittania Arms - Cupertino, CA w/ Mudface, Scorched Earth Policy Dusted Angel's upcoming debut 7" will be released on LA-based Corruption Recordings in early October. Featuring three sludged-out sledgehammer tracks mixed by Billy Anderson (Neurosis, High on Fire, etc.), this is just the beginning; a full-length is already in the works.

Lenny Kravits Joins on for Voodoo Experience

Sat, 05 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Lenny Kravitz, one of the music world's preeminent artists returns stateside to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of his iconic debut album Let Love Rule with a closing performance on Sunday, November 1st at Voodoo Experience in New Orleans. With a sound that is as much a melting pot as the city itself, Kravitz will join the weekend-long festivities (Friday, October 30, Saturday, October 31 and Sunday, November 1) which showcase the bohemian culture, arts and cuisine of New Orleans, his part-time home. The writer, producer and multi-instrumentalist's performance is bound to captivate audiences with his signature style-music carrying echoes of past eras, combining classic rock, old-school soul, gritty funk and confectionary '60s pop, yet always boasting an urgency and craftsmanship reflective of modern times. With close to 40 million records sold worldwide, Kravitz's appearance at VOODOO EXPERIENCE will include material from throughout his over 20 year career. Kravitz joins VOODOO's already eclectic line-up that is anchored by performances from Eminem--in his first full performance in over four years and only scheduled concert of 2009--and KISS, one of the most influential and successful rock and roll bands of all-time. They'll join the reunited Jane's Addiction--with all of the original members for their last scheduled U.S. date in 2009--along with Widespread Panic who'll perform as part their annual Halloween tradition (1997-2002) of live shows in the city. New Orleans' signature fall music event will offer three days of entertainment at the historic City Park locale set amidst lush lagoons, bayous, one of the largest collections of mature oak trees in the world--all in the shadow of the New Orleans Museum of Art and just minutes from the historic French Quarter and Central Business District. The 2009 Voodoo Experience line-up is as follows: Kiss; Eminem; Jane's Addiction; Widespread Panic; The Flaming Lips; Justice; Gogol Bordello; Wolfmother; The Black Keys; The Pogues; Ween; Silversun Pickups; Janelle Monae; The Cool Kids; Meat Puppets; Mutemath; Q-Tip; Fischerspooner; Brand New; D12; American Bang; Generational; Earl Greyhound; Squirrel Nut Zippers; Black Lips; Mates of State; All Time Low; Robert Randolph & the Family Band; The Knux; George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic; JJ Grey & Mofro; Alejandro Escovedo; Shooter Jennings; Down; Drive-By Truckers; Eric Church; Ledisi; Rebirth Brass Band, New Orleans Bingo! Show; Trombone Shorty & Orleans Ave; Big Sam's Funky Nation; Benjy Davis Project; Papa Grows Funk; DJ Soul Sister; Rotary Downs; Andrew Duhon & The Lonesome Crows; MarchFourth Marching Band, Amanda Shaw; Cyril Neville's Blues Revue with Tab Benoit, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, Johnny Sansone; Beausoleil; John Mooney & Bluesiana; Quintron & Miss Pussycat; Fleur De Tease; Suplecs; Little Freddie King; Preservation Hall Stars with Special Guests; The Happy Talk Band; Lil Brian and the Zydeco Travelers; Why Are We Building Such A Big Ship?; Ratty Scurvics; Mynameisjohnmichael; Loose Marbles; Luke Winslow King; Dan Dyer; Walter "Wolfman" Washington & The Roadmasters with the Dirty Dozen Horns; New Orleans Klezmer All Stars; Glasgow; Leroy Jones Group; Mas Mamones; Zydepunks; White Bitch; The Vettes; Lucy's Walk; Erick Baker; Sarah Quintana; TBC Brass Band; Bones; Legends to Nancy; Leo Jackson and the Melody Clouds; Brother Taisuke Mass Choir; Leroy Jones Group Katey Red, Big Freedia, Sissy Nobby with DJ Papa. The 2009 VOODOO EXPERIENCE also features a comprehensive ticket price whereby festival producers will absorb all ticket surcharges saving attendees approximately 15% on each purchase. For a limited time, three-day weekend tickets are $169, ALL IN with no additional fees; LOA Lounge VIP pass are $475, ALL IN with no additional fees and are available via Ticketmaster.com (www.ticketmaster.com) and the www.thevoodooexperience.com. This year's LOA Lounge will go beyond the traditional VIP offerings with a unique VOODOO spin on Southern hospitality. The LOA experience begins with reserved parking in the LOA parking lot, line free entrance, raised viewing area, complimentary classic New Orleans lunch buffet with signature drinks daily, complimentary dinner buffet with Bourbon Street-style and 3-for-1 drink specials nightly, continuous full bar service, exclusive live performances, private bathrooms and more. In addition, VIP ticketholders will enjoy the LOA Lounge Front Row: mainstage "front row" access in an exclusive area in front of the stage open only to LOA Lounge ticket holders and the just-added Aveda spa services, compliments of the Aveda Institute including a variety of hair, hand and aromatherapy treatments. More information about this year's VOODOO EXPERIENCE can also be found at www.thevoodooexperience.com. 2009 Partners include Toyota, PlayStation, Miller Lite, Southern Comfort, American Spirits, Visa Signature, fye Music Stores, Vtech and Marriott New Orleans. Media partners include Fuse Television, Billboard.com, Rollingstone.com, Spin, Filter, Nola.com, OffBeat, Where y'at, Antigravity and New Orleans Magazine.

Caroline Herring Releases Golden Apples of the Sun

Sat, 05 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Set for release on October 27, 2009 through Signature Sounds, Caroline Herring's fourth album Golden Apples of the Sun is her most intimate and mature to date. Combining haunting originals with some surprising new takes on old standards, Herring has created an album that at once recalls the folk heyday of the 1960s and 70s while also sounding entirely fresh and new. Herring has built a name for herself by crafting in-depth story songs, with critics continually describing her work as "timeless," "pure," "graceful" and "powerful." Her last release, Lantana, was named by National Public Radio as one of the "Top Ten Best Folk Albums for 2008." While critics and fans have long praised the purity and complexity of her voice, drawing comparisons to Joan Baez and Kate Wolf, the vocal performances on Golden Apples of the Sun are as comfortable and intimate as any Herring has produced. It is the most true to stage release of her career, and Herring gives credit to producer David "Goody" Goodrich, who crafted the stripped-down sound in the Signature Sounds studio in Connecticut. Armed primarily with just her guitar and live vocals, the finished product has all the marks of a fully developed artist and performer. Emboldened by the critical acclaim of her recent work, Herring continues to create what Vintage Guitar has called "musical tapestries full of dark landscapes, bittersweet images, and otherworldly moments." As usual, Herring draws inspiration from a wide range of sources. The album's lead song "Tales of the Islander" is vintage Herring, an inspired and inspirational paean to the Gulf Coast folk artist Walter Anderson, and the closing track, "The Great Unknown," takes off from a passage from Dante's Inferno. Yet Herring also includes beautifully crafted, intimate songs such as "The Dozens" and "Abuelita" drawn from her personal experience. Perhaps the most unexpected aspect of the new album, however, is the tribute Herring pays to the iconic female songwriters and singers who influenced her. Herring's work has always been identified with the traditions of her native South, yet on Golden Apples of the Sun Herring filters the sounds and inspiration of Joni Mitchell and Judy Collins through her own distinctive musical sensibilities. Long-time Herring fans are sure to appreciate her evocative interpretations of Mitchell's "Cactus Tree" as well as the traditional bluegrass tune "Long Black Veil" and the blues classic "See See Rider." Herring also tackles "True Colors," a song made famous by Cyndi Lauper, giving a newfound strength and directness to the pop song. These choices may seem like strange bedfellows on paper, but filtered through Herring's sensibility - stark, elegant, and bittersweet - they settle in exquisitely alongside her original compositions. Sonically unguarded and daringly intimate, Golden Apples of the Sun continues a creative evolution that has solidified Herring as a musician of consistent depth and resonance.

Lawrence, Lace Join Forces

Sat, 05 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Pickup designer/builder Bill Lawrence has teamed up withLace Music Products to build all future Lawrence-designed pickups at the Lace factory. Lawrence's Keystone and Wilde products, as well as all subsequent Bill Lawrence designs will be built and shipped from the Lace facility under the supervision of the Bill and Becky Lawrence and the Lace brothers. "It's been some fourteen years since we first discussed working together with Jeff and Don," said Bill Lawrence. "While most of our industry has been focused on merely recreating the past, we've both both been working on new, original ideas to advance the art and science of the pickup. Over the years, we've developed a close friendship and mutual respect based on our common principles, but until now the time for a joint venture never seemed quite right." Lawrence and Lace hold numerous technology patents in the pickup arena, with Lawrence's design work dating back some 60 years including historic stints with giants like Gibson, Framus, and a virtual who's who of the guitar industry, and Jeff Lace following in the footsteps of his father's unique "Fender-Lace Sensor" design dating from the early 1980s. More recently, Jeff has created Lace's Holy Grail and Alumitone pickup technologies, both featuring zero noise and full-range bandwidth. Lawrence, known for decades as the industry's most dynamic and knowledgable pickup designer, is responsible for the SCN (Samarium Cobalt Noiseless) line of pickups currently offered by Fender both in their prestigious American Deluxe guitars and basses and as popular aftermarket upgrades. Sales and distribution for Lawrence products is being finalized. No changes in the distribution channel for Lace products are planned. More information is available at wildepickups.com and billlawrence.com.

Slipknot Announce Fall Tour Dates

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Grammy Award winning hard rock powerhouse Slipknot have announced a string of fall tour dates, including some special appearances. The band will embark on a three week run in October, hitting mostly west coast markets. Slipknot will headline the Cypress Hill Smokeout in San Bernardino, CA on 10/24. The tour will end with Slipknot headlining the first annual Trinity of Terrors at The Pearl Concert Theater in the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas on Halloween. This run of dates will also include two previously postponed shows from last month. Sacramento's own Deftones will provide support beginning in Portland, OR through San Bernardino, CA. Tour dates are as follows: 10/10/09 White River Amphitheater Auburn, WA 10/11/09 Toyota Center Kennewick, WA 10/13/09 Memorial Coliseum Portland (w/ Deftones) 10/15/09 Pacific Coliseum Vancouver, BC (w/ Deftones) 10/16/09 Save On Foods Center Victoria, BC (w/ Deftones) 10/18/09 Shaw Conference Centre Edmonton, AB (w/ Deftones) 10/20/09 Calgary Corral Calgary, AB (w/ Deftones) 10/21/09 Star Theater Spokane, WA (w/ Deftones) 10/23/09 Event Center at San Jose San Jose, CA (w/ Deftones) 10/24/09 San Manuel Amphitheater - San Bernardino, CA (w/ Deftones) 10/29/09 The Palladium Los Angeles, CA 10/31/09 Pearl Concert Theater Las Vegas, NV Visit www.slipknot1.com.

PRS Intros Sweet 16 Amp

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
The Sweet 16, PRS Guitars new 16 watt amp, is already on retail shelves and creating quite a stir in the musical instruments community. This new amp couples16 watts of cathode-biased 6v6 output tube power and includes reverb, a full TMB tone stack, and PRS' transparent master volume circuit. Controls include bright switch, volume, reverb, treble, mid, bass, and master volume. All amps are hand wired in Stevensville, Maryland using hybrid circuitry techniques for consistency and durability. The amp's designer, Doug Sewell, said, "Designing the Sweet 16 was similar to writing a song; things just flowed well from start to finish. There was a buildup of ideas, both design and manufacturing, that needed to be implemented quickly, and things just fell together very easily. It's been great to work with a team of exuberant and talented individuals and to make all of the good techniques and ideas reality." Great care was taken in simplifying the layout and construction methods during the design process. This coupled with the ever-maturing PRS amplifier parts-procurement division and production crew enabled the Sweet 16 to be offered at a great price. The tones can run from sparkly cleans with single coils to humbucking crunch. At the appropriate volume set, a full range of crunching cleans are accessible using just the guitar's volume knob, replacing the need of at least one foot pedal. The Sweet 16 uses hand assembled circuit boards for consistency and reliability. Shielded cable is used for critical signal paths, and pots, switches, jacks, and power tube sockets are chassis mounted and connected via flying leads. Power sections employ JJs 6V6 power tubes, which have proven to be very rugged and reliable. They are cathode-biased to near class A, in a push-pull configuration. This greatly assists the chime, bloom, and rich harmonics that the amp can produce at all volumes. The four preamp tubes include two NOS Philips 12AT7s, a JJs ECC83S, and a Tung Sol Reissue 12AX7s in locations to maximize both clean and open-sounding lower volume settings to thick crunchiness at higher volumes. Sewell commented, "Our pre-specifications were pretty lofty, but I like challenges. We wanted this amp to hit on all cylinders-price point, aesthetics, and tone. From drawing on designs in my background to doing final tone comparisons with David Grissom, all the tools were there to come up with a winner. This amp was great fun to produce, and I think that translates. I'm very proud of the Sweet 16." Read more at prsguitars.com.

Artioli Designs' Voice Capo

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Artioli Designs Voice is a true chord-forming capo. Fitting over the first four frets of a guitar, the device enables the musician to create custom chords while freeing the fingering hand to accentuate over the chords. Voice helps beginning guitarists learn how to read tablature and recognize chord sounds by allowing them to form chords their hands may not yet be ready to form. Additionally, Voice will help guitarists of all levels advance their skills by allowing them to form a chord while practicing scales in a specified key. Voice fits standard-sized acoustic guitar necks (1 3/4" and 1 11/16") and all guitar necks between 1.65" (42mm) and 1.8" (46mm). Learn more at VoiceCapo.com.

Walden Offers Concorda Acoustics

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Walden's Concorda line of acoustic guitars includes nylon/classical, and 12-string guitars with solid spruce, rosewood and cedar. The line includes the Tobacco Sunburst CG670TB grand-auditorium, which has a cedar top, solid rosewood fingerboard and bridge, maple/mahogany rosette, and gold hardware. Learn more at waldenguitars.com.

Norwegian Metal Icons Satyricon to tour N. America

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Extreme metal band Satyricon is set to headline a 24-city North American tour which begins on September 25th in Baltimore, MD. The revered Norwegian outfit will also release a special edition 2-CD version of its critically acclaimed latest album, The Age of Nero. The bonus material on this special The Age of Nero package has never been available in North America before. Featuring 8 live and rare recordings, this package is a must-have for Satyricon fans. Over the course of its distinguished career, Satyricon has been widely recognized for its distinctive sound as well as its contributions to the genre. The band won the Norwegian Indie Awards' "Alarm" for "Best Live Act" in 2000, and in 2002, won the Norwegian Grammy for "Best Metal Album" for Volcano, in addition to Alarm Awards for "Metal Album of the Year" and "Song of the Year" (for their track "Fuel for Hatred"). Satyricon also won an Oslo Award for "Best Overall Album" that year. In 2006, Satyricon won the Metal Hammer Golden Gods Award for "Best Underground Act" as well as the "International Metal Album of the Year" honor at the Danish Music Awards for its album Now, Diabolical.

American Bang Hits the Road

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Hell-raising Nashville rockers American Bang will hit the road with Juliette Lewis for a fall tour that begins September 17 in Boston. Before kicking off the tour, the band is making a featured appearance at Nashville's opening concert for "Live on the Green," a new free fall concert series. They will also perform at this year's Voodoo Fest in New Orleans on Halloween night. American Bang, which is singer-guitarist Jaren Johnston, guitarist Ben Brown, bassist Kelby Ray, and drummer Neil Mason, will be previewing material from their upcoming debut album,Move to the Music, which is due out next year. The album was produced by Bob Rock and recorded at Nashville's famous Blackbird Studio as well as Rock's home studio in Maui. Known for "hitting the road hard" and "sharing their high-energy, loose-lipped and taut-limbed neo-Southern rock," according to The Tennessean, American Bang have quickly built a solid grass-roots following. They've landed gigs on the national festival circuit, appearing at Lollapalooza, Coachella, Bonnaroo, Summerfest, Langerado, SXSW, Monolith, and the Austin City Limits Festival and have toured with such artists as The Pretenders, ZZ Top, and The Donnas. Formed in Nashville in 2005, American Bang released an EP, Move to the Music, on Reprise Records in 2007, as well as a self- released album, I Shot The King, in 2006. The track "All Night Long," from Move to the Music, will be featured in promos teasing Fox's Sunday night line-up for "The Family Guy" and "The Simpsons" this fall.

Eagles Radio, Hosted by Joe Walsh, Debuts This Weekend

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
The virtual airwaves are heating up this fall as "Eagles Radio Hosted by Joe Walsh" kicks off an incredible series of features that can only be found on the band's official Artist Personal Experience online radio station. As traditional radio segues into their yearly Labor Day countdowns of songs, the Eagles promise-and deliver-something new and exciting. Beginning September 4th, A.P.E. Radio will begin to air guitar hero Walsh's down-to-earth conversations with his friends and fellow rock stars including Ringo Starr, AC/DC frontman Brian Johnson and Mike Rutherford (Genesis, Mike + the Mechanics). The channel that has brought "Our Stories, Our Friends, Our Favorite Music" since its launch on July 31 will continue to roll out interviews throughout the season from the aforementioned artists as well as many more of Walsh's contemporaries and influences, making up a list that reads like a who's-who of rock n' roll. While guests such as Starr, Johnson and Rutherford are bona fide rock stars, they're also personal friends of Walsh, making for spontaneous and organic interviews with details that won't be heard anywhere else. The Eagles themselves will direct the programming of their 24-hour channel, with the band members choosing and frequently updating the thousand-plus song playlist and all other creative concepts for their fans and music lovers in general. In addition to the upcoming all-star interviews, "Eagles Radio Hosted by Joe Walsh" is set to include the station host and band guitarist offering personal anecdotes in his own affable style. Music from the Eagles themselves will also be featured on occasion, accompanied by behind-the-scenes stories about the songs. Walsh has also selected tracks from the above artists, plus other favorites including the Allman Brothers Band, Kings of Leon, Wilco, Sly and the Family Stone and more to air throughout the programming day. "Eagles Radio Hosted by Joe Walsh" - along with "Christina Aguilera Radio" and "Radio Weezer," - are distributed across Clear Channel Radio's"iheartradio" network (www.iheartradio.com), which includes hundreds of local radio websites; the popular iheartradio mobile app, which has been downloaded by 2.8 million people in just 10 months; embeddable widgets; and each artist's site, Eaglesband.com, Christina Aguilera.com and www.Weezer.com. Just like the other A.P.E. stations, fans can participate in "Eagles Radio Hosted by Joe Walsh" by emailing their comments to eagles@aperadio.com or calling 1-866-686-1010. Walsh is already known as one of the most approachable and fan-friendly artists in rock, as he has previously taken an active role in answering the mountains of fan mail and messages that the band often receives. The Eagles have sold more than 120 million albums worldwide, earning five #1 U.S. singles. Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975 is the best-selling U.S. album of all time, exceeding sales of 29 million units. The band's Hotel California and Their Greatest Hits Volume 2 have sold more than 16 and 11 million albums, respectively. The Eagles have also received six Grammy Awards, and were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.

Vignola Holding Class at Pittsfield CityJazz Fest

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
Berkshires Jazz, Inc. has added a master class with guitarist Frank Vignola and a closing-day jam session to its Pittsfield CityJazz Festival, which runs from October 7 to 18. The festival will feature its Jazz About Town series, with restaurants and lounges presenting local musicians and all genres of instrumental and vocal jazz. Restaurant owners have reported increased attendance and longer visits by patrons on the nights when they have participated in this aspect. Dave Brubeck will appear with his quartet at the Colonial Theatre October 17. The Pittsfield CityJazz Youth Ensemble, a 16-piece big band assembled for the occasion, will open for Brubeck and will perform with him. The festival closes October 18 with the monthly Jazz Jam. For more, go to BerkshiresJazz.org.

Live Costello CDs Set for Release

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
The first edition in the The Costello Show live performance series of complete concerts featuring Elvis Costello finds one of the most eclectic and acclaimed artists at the fiery start of his career. Live At The El Mocambo (Hip-O/UMe), to be released September 29, 2009, marks Volume 1 of his Elvis Costello -The Costello Show series of albums. During the next year or so, the The Costello Show series will continue with the album releases of significant classic Costello concerts including a performance at Hollywood High in California and other shows to be announced. Recorded March 6, 1978, at the sold-out El Mocambo in Toronto, Canada, and broadcast live by CHUM-FM, this Elvis Costello and The Attractions concert was released the same year on about 300-500 pressings of a Canadian promotional album that became highly collectible-and heavily bootlegged. In fact, it may have been the most bootlegged of all Costello albums. The album was officially released in 1993 as a bonus disc in the four-CD box set 2 1/2 Years, and was also made available to those who bought the other three CDs separately. At the time of the concert, the band was touring North America in support of My Aim Is True, Costello's 1977 debut disc, and just days before the release of This Year's Model, the first album with The Attractions: keyboardist Steve Nieve, bassist Bruce Thomas and drummer Pete Thomas. The raw, energetic live performance in the midst of the late '70s punk/new wave movement captured a band and an artist at their most impassioned. The concert included My Aim Is True's "Watching The Detectives," "Less Than Zero" (with new lyrics Costello penned for American listeners), "Mystery Dance," "Waiting For The End Of The World," "Welcome To The Working Week" and "Miracle Man," and This Year's Model's anthemic "Pump It Up," "The Beat," "Lip Service," "(I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea" (only on the original U.K. album), "Little Triggers," "Radio Radio" (only on the U.S. edition), "Lipstick Vogue" and "You Belong To Me." In 2003, Costello was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the following year was ranked by Rolling Stone among its 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. Live At The El Mocambo flashes back to a performance when Elvis Costello was just beginning.

Slayer Announces CD Release, More

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT
The mighty Slayer has confirmed a release date for the band's 10th studio album: World Painted Blood will be released on Tuesday, November 3 in North America, and on Monday, November 2 to the rest of the world. In addition, Slayer has revealed the complete and correct track listing for the album that can be found on the band's newly-designed, just-launched website: www.slayer.net "As we're so excited about World Painted Blood," said the band's Dave Lombardo, "we wanted to do something special for the packaging, and have been working with some really cool ideas. They've taken time to get just right, and with our headlining the Mayhem tour for most of the summer, it's just taken that much longer to get all these great ideas exactly the way we want them." There will be three different editions of World Painted Blood - a limited edition CD with multiple CD covers, a deluxe edition CD/DVD, and a high-quality, 180-gram vinyl edition; specifics for all editions will be detailed shortly. "We hope our fans will like everything about World Painted Blood as much as we do," Lombardo continued. "Recording this new album has been one of the greatest experiences we've had as a band. We were together during the writing process more than we had been for past albums, we worked more collectively, everyone's suggestions and ideas were heard and considered, and that camaraderie is definitely heard in the new album. "Keep checking our new website as that's where everything will be announced first."

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Waylon Jennings' RCA Years Reissued

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Keane Slates Hopes and Fears Deluxe Addition

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Our Lady Peace Fall Tour Starts October 19

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Blind Boys Of Alabama Release Duets

Umphrey's McGee Releases of East Star All-Stars Remix

Kiss Marks 35 Years, Releases Disc

Zakk Wylde Slates Hellfire Halloween Bash

PRS Intros 30 amp

PRS Intros Carlos Santana SE One Abraxas

PRS Debuts Starla X

PRS Marks 25 Years with Ltd Dragon, Acoustics

PRS Offers Limited McCarty SC, DC 245

Santana, Guy Perform at PRS Experience

Ace Frehley Guests At Hollywood Rock Fantasy Camp

Slipknot Set for Fangoria Halloween Party

Petty, Heartbreakers to Release Live Anthology

IBMA Fan Fest Celebrates Bluegrass Music

David Crowder Band Releasing Church Music

Jet, Papa Roach to Co-Headline Tour

DePedro Hits the Road with Federico Aubele

Wariner to be Inducted to Thumbpickers HoF

REO Speedwagon Set to Release, Not So Silent Night...

Beck, Clapton to Play 02 Arena

Vai Releases Where the Wild Things Are

Lotus Announce NYE Run in Philly, Fall Tour

Wariner Nominated for Instrumentalist of the Year

Vai Gets Honorary Degree

Voodoo Experience Fest Adds Acts

Tone Box Skull Crusher Effect

Mary Travers Passes

Queensryche To Enlist Services of Lita Ford for American Soldier Tour

Flaming Lips On "Colbert Report" Tonight

Carl Verheyen To Release New Project

Rob Zombie Rolling on Hellbilly Deluxe 2 Tour

Powerman 5000 Set to Release New Disc

Armor Gold Adds Long Patch Cables