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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and features by
Ross Muir
Music Critic, Freelance Writer, Artist Review & Promotion
"Putting the Words to the Music"
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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and features by
Ross Muir
Music Critic, Freelance Writer, Artist Review & Promotion
"Putting the Words to the Music"
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Latest Muirsical Thoughts
A selection of topical music news snippets and announcements, a number of which include
a dash of Muirsical humour or an alternative, behind-the-spin view of the official press-blurb.
The Cult have announced their Electric 13 UK tour, which will take in ten dates this October.
Songs from the Platinum selling Electric (the band's critically acclaimed 1987 release) will play a major role in the tour, while the next new Cult album should see the light of day in 2014.
Electric 13 October Tour Dates:
18th – Cardiff University
19th – Exeter Great Hall
20th – Southampton Guildhall
22nd – Norwich UEA
23rd – Wolverhampton Civic Hall
25th – Manchester Academy
26th – Glasgow Barrowlands
28th – Nottingham Rock City
29th – Liverpool 02 Academy
31st – London Roundhouse
Songs from the Platinum selling Electric (the band's critically acclaimed 1987 release) will play a major role in the tour, while the next new Cult album should see the light of day in 2014.
Electric 13 October Tour Dates:
18th – Cardiff University
19th – Exeter Great Hall
20th – Southampton Guildhall
22nd – Norwich UEA
23rd – Wolverhampton Civic Hall
25th – Manchester Academy
26th – Glasgow Barrowlands
28th – Nottingham Rock City
29th – Liverpool 02 Academy
31st – London Roundhouse
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Ritchie Blackmore and his wife Candice are back with a hey nonny nonny, a medieval mandolin, a renaissance drum and a tambourine or two for the latest Blackmore’s Night offering, Dancer and the Moon.
The album is due for release on June 11th and a lead-off single, ‘The Moon is Shining (Somewhere Over the Sea)’ is now available.
Dancer and the Moon is the ninth studio album from Blackmore’s Night and the 13 track album includes three covers – ‘I Think it’s Going to Rain Today’ (Randy Newman), ‘Lady in Black’ (Uriah Heep) and ‘The Temple of the King’ (Rainbow).
And the name of the closing instrumental number, ‘Carry On… Jon’ would seem to indicate a tribute or musical dedication to Jon Lord.
The album is due for release on June 11th and a lead-off single, ‘The Moon is Shining (Somewhere Over the Sea)’ is now available.
Dancer and the Moon is the ninth studio album from Blackmore’s Night and the 13 track album includes three covers – ‘I Think it’s Going to Rain Today’ (Randy Newman), ‘Lady in Black’ (Uriah Heep) and ‘The Temple of the King’ (Rainbow).
And the name of the closing instrumental number, ‘Carry On… Jon’ would seem to indicate a tribute or musical dedication to Jon Lord.
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Youtube finally has a cover version/ video that is truly out of this world…
’Space Oddity’ was covered by Commander Chris Hadfield while on board the International Space Station and was posted as a video during what was his last full day on board the Station before returning to Earth.
Canadian musician Emm Gryner, Commander Hadfield’s son Evan, music producer Joe Corcoran and TV producer Andrew Tidby were all involved in putting the cover/ video together.
David Bowie acknowledged the first song sung in space by tweeting “Hallo Spaceboy…” to Hadfield.
’Space Oddity’ was covered by Commander Chris Hadfield while on board the International Space Station and was posted as a video during what was his last full day on board the Station before returning to Earth.
Canadian musician Emm Gryner, Commander Hadfield’s son Evan, music producer Joe Corcoran and TV producer Andrew Tidby were all involved in putting the cover/ video together.
David Bowie acknowledged the first song sung in space by tweeting “Hallo Spaceboy…” to Hadfield.
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While Commander Chris Hadfield’s cover of 'Space Oddity' was commanding (sorry, but it was there for the taking) all the attention, the Smashing Pumpkins were putting their own stamp on the Bowie classic, performed as part of the set from their Guitar Centre Sessions show:
The band's performance will be aired in full on DirectTV on May 17th.
Pumpkins front man Billy Corgan confirmed a few months ago that the band are recording a new record and the band will play three UK tour dates in July:
Manchester (July 1st), Glasgow (July 2nd) and London (July 22nd).
Manchester (July 1st), Glasgow (July 2nd) and London (July 22nd).
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Tangerine Dream recently made Starmus – Sonic Universe available, a live 2CD set featuring Brian May on a number of the songs.
The special live performance was recorded in June 2011 at the Starmus Festival in Tenerife, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Juri Gagarin’s pioneering spaceflight.
The show was attended by famous astronauts’ Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, Alexei Leonow and Jim Lovell.
The first tune and opening track of the album, ‘Supernova,’ is in actuality the sound of acoustic pressure waves from stars, captured by astrophysicist Professor Garik Israelian, founder of the event.
The second track is a version of Brian May's solo hit 'Last Horizon,' with the guitarist also featuring on the set ending 'Sally’s Garden' and 'We Will Rock You.'
The former is a traditional Irish air arranged by Tangerine Dream while the Queen classic has a coda “largely improvised by us all on the spot” according to the guitarist.
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The special live performance was recorded in June 2011 at the Starmus Festival in Tenerife, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Juri Gagarin’s pioneering spaceflight.
The show was attended by famous astronauts’ Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, Alexei Leonow and Jim Lovell.
The first tune and opening track of the album, ‘Supernova,’ is in actuality the sound of acoustic pressure waves from stars, captured by astrophysicist Professor Garik Israelian, founder of the event.
The second track is a version of Brian May's solo hit 'Last Horizon,' with the guitarist also featuring on the set ending 'Sally’s Garden' and 'We Will Rock You.'
The former is a traditional Irish air arranged by Tangerine Dream while the Queen classic has a coda “largely improvised by us all on the spot” according to the guitarist.
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Infinita Symphonia Press Release
Following the success of their critically acclaimed debut,
A Mind’s Chronicle (2011), Infinita Symphonia have announced the release of their new self-titled album.
Keeping faith to their trademark power/ symphonic sound the band have added a hard rock edge to the mix and a fresher, more modern approach.
Infinita Symphonia was recorded and mixed at Outer Sound Studio by Giuseppe Orlando (Novembre) and mastered by Henkka Niemistö and Svante Forsbäck at Chartmakers Studio.
The album features a special guest appearance by singer Michael Kiske (Helloween, Unisonic) on the song ‘Fly.’
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A Mind’s Chronicle (2011), Infinita Symphonia have announced the release of their new self-titled album.
Keeping faith to their trademark power/ symphonic sound the band have added a hard rock edge to the mix and a fresher, more modern approach.
Infinita Symphonia was recorded and mixed at Outer Sound Studio by Giuseppe Orlando (Novembre) and mastered by Henkka Niemistö and Svante Forsbäck at Chartmakers Studio.
The album features a special guest appearance by singer Michael Kiske (Helloween, Unisonic) on the song ‘Fly.’
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Well, after a serious return to form with the cracking Quid Pro Quo, the recent band documentary and the Frantic Four reunion, nice to see normal dodgy material services have been resumed at Status Quo central.
The adventure comedy Bula Quo! features Quo duo Francis Rossi and Rock Parfitt in their first ever film roles. And it looks like it.
Set in Fiji, the plot revolves around a gambling ring and the escapades and antics of Rossi and Parfitt as they try to escape from those that want them dead.
It all sounds like an idea for a feature-length Only Fools and Horses reunion, but with dodgy music and even dodgier acting.
And quite frankly, from the released teasers, trailer and video that accompanies the first single 'Bula Bula Quo,' the only thing missing is the band’s advert for the Coles Supermarket chain in Australia and a blast of 'Burning Bridges' for old (Marguerita) times sake.
The adventure comedy Bula Quo! features Quo duo Francis Rossi and Rock Parfitt in their first ever film roles. And it looks like it.
Set in Fiji, the plot revolves around a gambling ring and the escapades and antics of Rossi and Parfitt as they try to escape from those that want them dead.
It all sounds like an idea for a feature-length Only Fools and Horses reunion, but with dodgy music and even dodgier acting.
And quite frankly, from the released teasers, trailer and video that accompanies the first single 'Bula Bula Quo,' the only thing missing is the band’s advert for the Coles Supermarket chain in Australia and a blast of 'Burning Bridges' for old (Marguerita) times sake.
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A far better bet than the Bula buffoonery mentioned above will be a new, forthcoming film documentary on the blues legend B.B. King.
The film about the 87 years young guitarist will premier on June the 14th at the NXNE Film Festival in Toronto, Canada.
Narrated by Morgan Freeman, the documentary also include appearances by, or comment from, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Eric Clapton, Slash, Ron Wood, Ringo Starr, Bono and many other name artists.
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A far better bet than the Bula buffoonery mentioned above will be a new, forthcoming film documentary on the blues legend B.B. King.
The film about the 87 years young guitarist will premier on June the 14th at the NXNE Film Festival in Toronto, Canada.
Narrated by Morgan Freeman, the documentary also include appearances by, or comment from, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Eric Clapton, Slash, Ron Wood, Ringo Starr, Bono and many other name artists.
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The Poodles - Tour De Force Press Release
All hand on deck!
Swedish melodic rockers The Poodles have raised the anchor and after a little over a year of silence are back with a brand new album Tour De Force, the fifth chapter of The Poodles’ saga.
Tour de Force is the eagerly awaited follow-up to the No. 1 album from 2011, Performocracy.
Behind the wheel and taking on the duties of producer for a third time is Mats Valentin.
With songs like 'Shut Up,' 'Happily Ever After,' 'Kings and Fools' and 'Going Down' The Poodles stay true to their legacy of powerful, melodic metal while at the same time stretching into a new, more playful arena; flirting with influences from the past but always with a watchful eye on the present and in to the future.
In May 2013 the Ice Hockey World Championships will be held in Stockholm, Sweden and the official theme song for the Swedish team is the special bonus track on Tour De Force, available only on the physical edition of the album.
THE POODLES
Jakob Samuelsson - vocals
Pontus Egberg – bass
Christian Lundqvist - drums
Henrik Bergqvist - guitars
Tour De Force on Frontiers Records
Cat #: FR CD 602 Code: 8024391060223
Release dates:
EU: May 17th
NA: May 21st
Tracklisting:
Misery Loves Company; Shut Up!; Happily Ever After; Viva Democracy; Going Down; Leaving the Past to Pass; 40 Days and 40 Nights; Kings & Fools; Miracle; Godspeed; Now is the Time; Only Just Begun;
En För Alla För En (bonus track – physical edition only).
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Swedish melodic rockers The Poodles have raised the anchor and after a little over a year of silence are back with a brand new album Tour De Force, the fifth chapter of The Poodles’ saga.
Tour de Force is the eagerly awaited follow-up to the No. 1 album from 2011, Performocracy.
Behind the wheel and taking on the duties of producer for a third time is Mats Valentin.
With songs like 'Shut Up,' 'Happily Ever After,' 'Kings and Fools' and 'Going Down' The Poodles stay true to their legacy of powerful, melodic metal while at the same time stretching into a new, more playful arena; flirting with influences from the past but always with a watchful eye on the present and in to the future.
In May 2013 the Ice Hockey World Championships will be held in Stockholm, Sweden and the official theme song for the Swedish team is the special bonus track on Tour De Force, available only on the physical edition of the album.
THE POODLES
Jakob Samuelsson - vocals
Pontus Egberg – bass
Christian Lundqvist - drums
Henrik Bergqvist - guitars
Tour De Force on Frontiers Records
Cat #: FR CD 602 Code: 8024391060223
Release dates:
EU: May 17th
NA: May 21st
Tracklisting:
Misery Loves Company; Shut Up!; Happily Ever After; Viva Democracy; Going Down; Leaving the Past to Pass; 40 Days and 40 Nights; Kings & Fools; Miracle; Godspeed; Now is the Time; Only Just Begun;
En För Alla För En (bonus track – physical edition only).
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New Jersey born and now North Carolina based singer songwriter Ken Acorn spent four and half years in Ayrshire in Scotland.
He lived quite close to me but a lived a lot nearer my good friend John McGuigan.
John is now in Australia but with distance being no barrier in this I Can See Your House From Google Earth world, John and Ken have collaborated on a virtual get-together, the fruits of which can be seen on Youtube.
John, not too shabby with a camera in his hand, created a collage of Scottish scenic images to accompany Ken’s 'Hearts of Scotland' – a song that clearly indicates the impact the Auld Country made on the songwriter.
He lived quite close to me but a lived a lot nearer my good friend John McGuigan.
John is now in Australia but with distance being no barrier in this I Can See Your House From Google Earth world, John and Ken have collaborated on a virtual get-together, the fruits of which can be seen on Youtube.
John, not too shabby with a camera in his hand, created a collage of Scottish scenic images to accompany Ken’s 'Hearts of Scotland' – a song that clearly indicates the impact the Auld Country made on the songwriter.
The Celtic-pop of 'Hearts of Scotland' will never be noticed by the 1.5 billion Youtube viewers and 10 million iTunes downloaders that allowed Psy to laugh all the way to the bank, Gangnam Style.
But the rest of us can admire and appreciate a sentimental but sincere piece of work from the voice of Ken Acorn and the camera eye of John McGuigan.
And the Scottish Tourist Board, the SNP and their push for Scottish Independence and a host of other promote Scotland sites could do a lot worse than get permission to incorporate it in to any future publicity campaigns.
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But the rest of us can admire and appreciate a sentimental but sincere piece of work from the voice of Ken Acorn and the camera eye of John McGuigan.
And the Scottish Tourist Board, the SNP and their push for Scottish Independence and a host of other promote Scotland sites could do a lot worse than get permission to incorporate it in to any future publicity campaigns.
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It was only a matter of time.
Ex Foreigner front man Lou Gramm has hinted that his forthcoming get together with Mick Jones at the Songwriters Hall of Fame might not be their only reunion.
Gramm last played with Foreigner in 1997, departing when it was obvious he was still too unwell to perform (the singer had an operation and treatment for a brain tumour in April of that year and was still recovering and struggling six months later while Foreigner were touring).
Speaking to Classic Rock Revisited, Gramm commented that “His [Jones] management and my management are tossing around the idea of a farewell tour. I would really like to do that.
It would be really great to do that instead of leaving it with such a bitter and unfinished ending.”
I'll bet Live Nation are already rubbing their hands in anticipation and drafting out a contract.
Lou Gramm’s departure from Foreigner wasn’t entirely amicable; there were disagreements between Gramm and Jones over the band’s direction, issues over song-writing credit royalties and the pair hadn't spoken in years until Gramm phoned Jones to congratulate him on the Songwriters induction.
But there's more to the potential reunion/ farewell dates than kissing and making up.
Lou Gramm's solo career, tour/ audience wise, since leaving the band, never got out of second gear while Mick Jones and his band of Foreigners have done pretty well thank you very much as part of the classic (retro)rock resurgence.
And the Lou Gramm Band album of 2009 sank like a stone in comparison to Can’t Slow Down by Foreigner, which surfaced in the Billboard Top 30 that same year.
The former was actually superior to the latter, but it didn’t have the name Foreigner splashed across the cover.
Prior to any possible reunion/ farewell dates, the pair are almost certain to perform a couple of songs together at the Songwriters Hall of Fame awards.
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Ex Foreigner front man Lou Gramm has hinted that his forthcoming get together with Mick Jones at the Songwriters Hall of Fame might not be their only reunion.
Gramm last played with Foreigner in 1997, departing when it was obvious he was still too unwell to perform (the singer had an operation and treatment for a brain tumour in April of that year and was still recovering and struggling six months later while Foreigner were touring).
Speaking to Classic Rock Revisited, Gramm commented that “His [Jones] management and my management are tossing around the idea of a farewell tour. I would really like to do that.
It would be really great to do that instead of leaving it with such a bitter and unfinished ending.”
I'll bet Live Nation are already rubbing their hands in anticipation and drafting out a contract.
Lou Gramm’s departure from Foreigner wasn’t entirely amicable; there were disagreements between Gramm and Jones over the band’s direction, issues over song-writing credit royalties and the pair hadn't spoken in years until Gramm phoned Jones to congratulate him on the Songwriters induction.
But there's more to the potential reunion/ farewell dates than kissing and making up.
Lou Gramm's solo career, tour/ audience wise, since leaving the band, never got out of second gear while Mick Jones and his band of Foreigners have done pretty well thank you very much as part of the classic (retro)rock resurgence.
And the Lou Gramm Band album of 2009 sank like a stone in comparison to Can’t Slow Down by Foreigner, which surfaced in the Billboard Top 30 that same year.
The former was actually superior to the latter, but it didn’t have the name Foreigner splashed across the cover.
Prior to any possible reunion/ farewell dates, the pair are almost certain to perform a couple of songs together at the Songwriters Hall of Fame awards.
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Burning Rain - Epic Obsession Press Release
Burning Rain is a heavy melodic rock band established in 1998 featuring guitarist extraordinare Doug Aldrich.
Aldrich formed Burning Rain after meeting singer Keith St John through mutual friends and the two set off to compose a debut album to remember!
Burning Rain was released in 1999. The album was rounded out by Ian Mayo on Bass and Alex Macarovich on Drums.
This first record established Burning Rain as a hungry yet seasoned group of musicians.
Although the album was limited in its release worldwide it did in fact receive rave reviews by fans and critics alike.
In 2000 the band released its follow up record Pleasure To Burn with the same cast of musicians.
This time while composing, the band went for a deeper more diverse sound that also incorporated some use of stringed instruments on several tracks such as the albums cornerstone 'Judgement Day.'
The first two long out of print albums are now finally available via Frontiers Records.
The newly packaged records feature two bonus tracks each and are a must for fans of the band.
In 2001 Aldrich left to join the band Dio, featuring the late great Ronnie Jams Dio and St John Joined forces with guitar innovator Ronnie Montrose, staying with Montrose for 10 years.
Aldrich left Dio in 2003 and was approached by David Coverdale to join a newly reformed Whitesnake.
Aldrich is still a vital and current member in Whitesnake. After co-writing and co-producing several projects including 2007's Good To Be Bad and the 2010 Frontiers release Forevermore, Aldrich is leaving his mark in the great history that David Coverdale started in 1978.
Aldrich has dedicated the last decade to helping Coverdale move Whitesnake forward and has received extremely favourable reviews for his efforts with the band.
The team of Coverdale- Aldrich has proven to be extremely fruitful and the two have composed two Top 40 records together.
Back in 2004 Aldrich signed Burning Rain to a recording contract for a third album to be released with Frontiers with the intention of working on the album when Whitesnake was on hiatus.
That never happened. Doug was working full time with David on tours and various projects so there was no real time for a new Burning Rain record.
That is until now.
Meet, finally, the long awaited third record for Doug Aldrich, Keith St John and Burning Rain:
Epic Obsession.
Co-produced by Aldrich and St John, the album picks up where Burning Rain left off, still delivering high intensity melodic, blues-based rock with big riffs and hooks.
The boys have learned a trick or two from the various bands that they have been involved with: Epic Obsession is an extremely well balanced record showing the diversity of songs that make a record listenable over and over. It is the most complete record for the band to date.
The revamped team of Aldrich-St John recruited Sean McNabb (Dokken, Quiet Riot) on bass guitar and backing vocals as well as Matt Starr from the Ace Frehley band on drums.
The album also features several guest musicians, most notably Brian Tichy and Jimmy D’Anda, ex-Bullet Boys, on drums.
The record goes down some similar and some unfamiliar roads, but the best advice is to check it out for yourself.
If there is to be a classic recording for 2013, Epic Obsession from Burning Rain could be the one.
Also included are two bonus tracks including a Burning Rain version of the Led Zeppelin classic 'Kashmir.'
Epic Obsession on Frontiers Records
Cat #: FR CD 601 Code: 8024391060124
Release dates:
EU: May 17th 2013
NA: May 21st 2013
Tracklisting:
Sweet Little Baby Thing; The Cure; Till You Die; Heaven Gets Me By; Pray Out Loud; Our Time is Gonna Come; Too Hard to Break; My Lust Your Fate; Made For Your Heart; Ride the Monkey; Out In the Cold Again; When Can I Believe in Love; Kashmir *; Heaven Gets Me By (acoustic) *
*Bonus tracks.
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Aldrich formed Burning Rain after meeting singer Keith St John through mutual friends and the two set off to compose a debut album to remember!
Burning Rain was released in 1999. The album was rounded out by Ian Mayo on Bass and Alex Macarovich on Drums.
This first record established Burning Rain as a hungry yet seasoned group of musicians.
Although the album was limited in its release worldwide it did in fact receive rave reviews by fans and critics alike.
In 2000 the band released its follow up record Pleasure To Burn with the same cast of musicians.
This time while composing, the band went for a deeper more diverse sound that also incorporated some use of stringed instruments on several tracks such as the albums cornerstone 'Judgement Day.'
The first two long out of print albums are now finally available via Frontiers Records.
The newly packaged records feature two bonus tracks each and are a must for fans of the band.
In 2001 Aldrich left to join the band Dio, featuring the late great Ronnie Jams Dio and St John Joined forces with guitar innovator Ronnie Montrose, staying with Montrose for 10 years.
Aldrich left Dio in 2003 and was approached by David Coverdale to join a newly reformed Whitesnake.
Aldrich is still a vital and current member in Whitesnake. After co-writing and co-producing several projects including 2007's Good To Be Bad and the 2010 Frontiers release Forevermore, Aldrich is leaving his mark in the great history that David Coverdale started in 1978.
Aldrich has dedicated the last decade to helping Coverdale move Whitesnake forward and has received extremely favourable reviews for his efforts with the band.
The team of Coverdale- Aldrich has proven to be extremely fruitful and the two have composed two Top 40 records together.
Back in 2004 Aldrich signed Burning Rain to a recording contract for a third album to be released with Frontiers with the intention of working on the album when Whitesnake was on hiatus.
That never happened. Doug was working full time with David on tours and various projects so there was no real time for a new Burning Rain record.
That is until now.
Meet, finally, the long awaited third record for Doug Aldrich, Keith St John and Burning Rain:
Epic Obsession.
Co-produced by Aldrich and St John, the album picks up where Burning Rain left off, still delivering high intensity melodic, blues-based rock with big riffs and hooks.
The boys have learned a trick or two from the various bands that they have been involved with: Epic Obsession is an extremely well balanced record showing the diversity of songs that make a record listenable over and over. It is the most complete record for the band to date.
The revamped team of Aldrich-St John recruited Sean McNabb (Dokken, Quiet Riot) on bass guitar and backing vocals as well as Matt Starr from the Ace Frehley band on drums.
The album also features several guest musicians, most notably Brian Tichy and Jimmy D’Anda, ex-Bullet Boys, on drums.
The record goes down some similar and some unfamiliar roads, but the best advice is to check it out for yourself.
If there is to be a classic recording for 2013, Epic Obsession from Burning Rain could be the one.
Also included are two bonus tracks including a Burning Rain version of the Led Zeppelin classic 'Kashmir.'
Epic Obsession on Frontiers Records
Cat #: FR CD 601 Code: 8024391060124
Release dates:
EU: May 17th 2013
NA: May 21st 2013
Tracklisting:
Sweet Little Baby Thing; The Cure; Till You Die; Heaven Gets Me By; Pray Out Loud; Our Time is Gonna Come; Too Hard to Break; My Lust Your Fate; Made For Your Heart; Ride the Monkey; Out In the Cold Again; When Can I Believe in Love; Kashmir *; Heaven Gets Me By (acoustic) *
*Bonus tracks.
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The Rolling Stones, perhaps unsurprisingly having got the performance bug back after the 50 shows last year, will embark on a seventeen show 50 and Counting tour across the US from May the 3rd to June the 21st, opening at the Staples Centre in LA and ending in Philadelphia.
The original opening day of May the 2nd was postponed due to the NBA (basketball) playoffs, but fans are being advised to hold onto tickets as they will be honoured at the new date.
The band will also play festival dates in the UK this summer (see separate news item later/ below).
The original opening day of May the 2nd was postponed due to the NBA (basketball) playoffs, but fans are being advised to hold onto tickets as they will be honoured at the new date.
The band will also play festival dates in the UK this summer (see separate news item later/ below).
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Mott the Hoople will reform for five UK dates in November.
Ticket demand is likely to be high after the 2009 reunion shows in London where fan reaction was so great the band had to add extra dates, playing a total of five sold-out shows at the Hammersmith Apollo.
The line-up will feature original members Verden Allen (keyboards), Ian Hunter (vocals/ guitar), Mick Ralphs (guitar/vocals) and Overend Watts (bass).
Sadly, the ill health of original drummer Dale “Buffin” Griffin will prevent him from playing and his place will be taken by Martin Chambers of The Pretenders, as was the case at the 2009 London shows (Griffin appeared for the encores).
Mott the Hoople UK dates:
11th November: Symphony Hall, Birmingham
13th November: Clyde Auditorium, Glasgow
16th November: City Hall, Newcastle
17th November: O2 Apollo, Manchester
18th November: The O2, London
All tickets are priced £40, except London, which is £45.
Tickets go on sale at 9.00am on the 26th of April.
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Ticket demand is likely to be high after the 2009 reunion shows in London where fan reaction was so great the band had to add extra dates, playing a total of five sold-out shows at the Hammersmith Apollo.
The line-up will feature original members Verden Allen (keyboards), Ian Hunter (vocals/ guitar), Mick Ralphs (guitar/vocals) and Overend Watts (bass).
Sadly, the ill health of original drummer Dale “Buffin” Griffin will prevent him from playing and his place will be taken by Martin Chambers of The Pretenders, as was the case at the 2009 London shows (Griffin appeared for the encores).
Mott the Hoople UK dates:
11th November: Symphony Hall, Birmingham
13th November: Clyde Auditorium, Glasgow
16th November: City Hall, Newcastle
17th November: O2 Apollo, Manchester
18th November: The O2, London
All tickets are priced £40, except London, which is £45.
Tickets go on sale at 9.00am on the 26th of April.
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As expected, Dave Grohl and fellow Foo Fighters bandmate Taylor Hawkins inducted Rush into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on the 18th of April.
It was a genuinely funny yet rousing speech, but was bettered by the sincere yet Spinal Tap-esque tribute to the Canadian rock progressives, featuring the Foo Fighters, the 2112 Overture, wigs and kimonos...
It was a genuinely funny yet rousing speech, but was bettered by the sincere yet Spinal Tap-esque tribute to the Canadian rock progressives, featuring the Foo Fighters, the 2112 Overture, wigs and kimonos...
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Famous graphic designer Storm Thorgerson sadly passed away in April, at the age of 69.
Middlesex born Thorgerson designed what have since become celebrated as some of the best known or classic album covers for Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Peter Gabriel, Dream Theater and many others.
He graduated from university with a Bachelor of Arts degree with honours, later graduating from the Royal College of Art with a Master of Arts degree.
Storm Thorgerson became an integral member of the graphic art company Hipgnosis, designing many famous single and album covers, none more famous than Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon (designed by Thorgerson, drawn by George Hardie).
Following the dissolution of Hipgnosis in 1983, Thorgerson formed his own company, Storm Studios.
Thorgerson recovered from a stroke in 2003 but was later diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer.
He succumbed to the illness on the 18th of April.
David Gilmour, who had been friends with Thorgerson since they were both teenagers, described the talented artist as “a constant force in my life, both at work and in private, a shoulder to cry on, and a great friend.”
He graduated from university with a Bachelor of Arts degree with honours, later graduating from the Royal College of Art with a Master of Arts degree.
Storm Thorgerson became an integral member of the graphic art company Hipgnosis, designing many famous single and album covers, none more famous than Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon (designed by Thorgerson, drawn by George Hardie).
Following the dissolution of Hipgnosis in 1983, Thorgerson formed his own company, Storm Studios.
Thorgerson recovered from a stroke in 2003 but was later diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer.
He succumbed to the illness on the 18th of April.
David Gilmour, who had been friends with Thorgerson since they were both teenagers, described the talented artist as “a constant force in my life, both at work and in private, a shoulder to cry on, and a great friend.”
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Uriah Heep will have a guest vocalist for a limited run of European dates when they play The Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy and Switzerland in May.
And it's a vocalist that is very well known to both band and fans.
John Lawton, lead vocalist with Heep from 1976 to 1979, will reunite with the band to cover for singer Bernie Shaw, who requires time off for a routine medical procedure.
Lawton previously covered for Shaw for two weeks in 1995, when the latter required downtime for vocal problems.
Lawton also made an appearance at the band’s Magician’s Birthday Party gig in London in 2001, as did ex-member Ken Hensley, and has been confirmed to perform as a one-off guest alongside Shaw at the outdoor Uriah Heep show in San Javier Spain on July the 12th.
The sets are expected to be restructured to include a number of songs originally recorded by John Lawton; he appeared on the Uriah Heep albums Firefly, Innocent Victim and Fallen Angel.
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Uriah Heep will have a guest vocalist for a limited run of European dates when they play The Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy and Switzerland in May.
And it's a vocalist that is very well known to both band and fans.
John Lawton, lead vocalist with Heep from 1976 to 1979, will reunite with the band to cover for singer Bernie Shaw, who requires time off for a routine medical procedure.
Lawton previously covered for Shaw for two weeks in 1995, when the latter required downtime for vocal problems.
Lawton also made an appearance at the band’s Magician’s Birthday Party gig in London in 2001, as did ex-member Ken Hensley, and has been confirmed to perform as a one-off guest alongside Shaw at the outdoor Uriah Heep show in San Javier Spain on July the 12th.
The sets are expected to be restructured to include a number of songs originally recorded by John Lawton; he appeared on the Uriah Heep albums Firefly, Innocent Victim and Fallen Angel.
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The Scorpions, busy boys since their announcement of impending retirement back in 2010 (since retracted or at least put on indefinite hold), have their 1990 album Crazy World re-released in June as a two-disc collector’s set.
Crazy World, the band’s eleventh studio album, brought the band to a wider, more mainstream melodic rock audience and contained the international hit 'Wind of Change.'
The new edition will include bonus tracks, alternate versions and different language versions of 'Wind of Change.'
The bonus disc features songs recorded on the Live Crazy World Tour. There will also be four promotional videos.
Disc 1: Crazy World plus bonus tracks
Tease Me Please Me, Don't Believe Her, To Be With You in Heaven, Wind of Change, Restless Nights,
Lust or Love, Kicks after Six, Money and Fame, Hit Between the Eyes, Crazy World, Send Me an Angel,
Wind of Change (Edit), Big City Nights (Live at the Moscow Peace Festival), Holiday (Live Version),
Wind of Change (Russian Version), Wind of Change (Spanish Version), Hit Between the Eyes, The Zoo.
Disc 2: Live Crazy World Tour
Bad Boys Running Wild, Hit Between the Eyes, I Can't Explain, The Zoo, Rhythm of Love, Crazy World,
Can't Live Without You, Blackout, Dynamite, Lust or Love, Big City Nights, Rock You Like a Hurricane.
Music videos:
Tease Me Please Me (Directed by Jeff Richter), Don't Believe Her (Directed by Wayne Isham)
Send Me an Angel (Directed by Meiert Avis), Wind of Change (Directed by Wayne Isham)
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Crazy World, the band’s eleventh studio album, brought the band to a wider, more mainstream melodic rock audience and contained the international hit 'Wind of Change.'
The new edition will include bonus tracks, alternate versions and different language versions of 'Wind of Change.'
The bonus disc features songs recorded on the Live Crazy World Tour. There will also be four promotional videos.
Disc 1: Crazy World plus bonus tracks
Tease Me Please Me, Don't Believe Her, To Be With You in Heaven, Wind of Change, Restless Nights,
Lust or Love, Kicks after Six, Money and Fame, Hit Between the Eyes, Crazy World, Send Me an Angel,
Wind of Change (Edit), Big City Nights (Live at the Moscow Peace Festival), Holiday (Live Version),
Wind of Change (Russian Version), Wind of Change (Spanish Version), Hit Between the Eyes, The Zoo.
Disc 2: Live Crazy World Tour
Bad Boys Running Wild, Hit Between the Eyes, I Can't Explain, The Zoo, Rhythm of Love, Crazy World,
Can't Live Without You, Blackout, Dynamite, Lust or Love, Big City Nights, Rock You Like a Hurricane.
Music videos:
Tease Me Please Me (Directed by Jeff Richter), Don't Believe Her (Directed by Wayne Isham)
Send Me an Angel (Directed by Meiert Avis), Wind of Change (Directed by Wayne Isham)
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Well, you wait two decades for a Joe Walsh album and then two turn up within a couple of years of each other. At least that’s the hope…
After the release of Analog Man last year, Walsh has confirmed he has begun work on his next album.
The guitarist has been collaborating with Dr. John, Robert Randolph, Keb' Mo', Jim Keltner, Mike Finnigan and Jeff Beck bassist Tal Wilkenfeld for the sessions and has, according to the man himself “started a blues album. Half of it is original, and half of it's old Howlin' Wolf or John Lee Hooker. I told everybody to bring a song in and everybody did, be it an old blues song or some idea.”
Walsh will also be out on the road this summer on the History of the Eagles North American Tour, which opens on the 6th of July in Louisville, Kentucky.
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After the release of Analog Man last year, Walsh has confirmed he has begun work on his next album.
The guitarist has been collaborating with Dr. John, Robert Randolph, Keb' Mo', Jim Keltner, Mike Finnigan and Jeff Beck bassist Tal Wilkenfeld for the sessions and has, according to the man himself “started a blues album. Half of it is original, and half of it's old Howlin' Wolf or John Lee Hooker. I told everybody to bring a song in and everybody did, be it an old blues song or some idea.”
Walsh will also be out on the road this summer on the History of the Eagles North American Tour, which opens on the 6th of July in Louisville, Kentucky.
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Kate Bush, the only woman to have Top Five albums in the UK charts for five successive decades, has been awarded a CBE for her services to music.
Bush received the honour from The Queen in a ceremony at Windsor castle.
Kate Bush hit the top of the UK charts with 'Wuthering Heights' when she was only 19 and the now 54 year old dedicated her CBE to her family, friends and musicians.
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Bush received the honour from The Queen in a ceremony at Windsor castle.
Kate Bush hit the top of the UK charts with 'Wuthering Heights' when she was only 19 and the now 54 year old dedicated her CBE to her family, friends and musicians.
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Veteran sound engineer and rock producer Andy Johns sadly passed away on the 7th April. He was 61.
Between 1969 and 2012 Andy Johns (younger brother of noted Olympic Studios engineer Glyn Johns) produced around 40 rock albums; many are genuine classics of the genre.
He also engineered a large number of those albums with co-production credits or engineering credits on dozens more.
Highlights of Andy Johns forty-four year career include Humble Pie’s debut As Safe as Yesterday Is (1969, producer), Heartbreaker by Free (1970 co-producer), the hard melodic rock classic (Glenn) Hughes & (Pat) Thrall (1982, co-producer), Chickenfoot (2009, co-producer) and more recently Hollywood Forever by the Los Angeles hard rock band L.A. Guns (2012, producer).
His near forty album engineering credits include the Led Zeppelin releases II, III, IV, Houses of the Holy and Physical Graffiti as well as the Rolling Stones classic brace of Sticky Fingers and Exile on Main St. (Johns also engineered Goats Head Soup and It’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll).
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Between 1969 and 2012 Andy Johns (younger brother of noted Olympic Studios engineer Glyn Johns) produced around 40 rock albums; many are genuine classics of the genre.
He also engineered a large number of those albums with co-production credits or engineering credits on dozens more.
Highlights of Andy Johns forty-four year career include Humble Pie’s debut As Safe as Yesterday Is (1969, producer), Heartbreaker by Free (1970 co-producer), the hard melodic rock classic (Glenn) Hughes & (Pat) Thrall (1982, co-producer), Chickenfoot (2009, co-producer) and more recently Hollywood Forever by the Los Angeles hard rock band L.A. Guns (2012, producer).
His near forty album engineering credits include the Led Zeppelin releases II, III, IV, Houses of the Holy and Physical Graffiti as well as the Rolling Stones classic brace of Sticky Fingers and Exile on Main St. (Johns also engineered Goats Head Soup and It’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll).
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Black Sabbath have announced UK tour dates to support the forthcoming album
The long-awaited Black Sabbath album, 13, the first to feature Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler since the original line-up recorded Never Say Die in 1978 is now available to pre-order via the band's website: http://www.blacksabbath.com/
The official UK release date is June the 10th and the band will also tour the UK in December.
All good news for the fans of classic Sabbath but not so good news from Ozzy Osbourne, who recently admitted to having a relapse in his drink and drug habits.
Osbourne's official statement confirmed that for the last year and a half he had been drinking and taking drugs, going on to say that he "...was in a very dark place and was an asshole to the people I love most, my family. However, I am happy to say that I am now 44 days sober.”
The singer also took the opportunity to scupper recent rumours regarding his marriage; rumours fuelled by the fact that they are currently "staying apart due to their overwhelming work commitments" (according to a spokesperson for Sharon Osbourne).
13 tracklisting:
1. End of the Beginning (8:07)
2. God is Dead? (8:54)
3. Loner (5:06)
4. Zeitgeist (4:28)
5. Age of Reason (7:02)
6. Live Forever (4:49)
7. Damaged Soul (7:43)
8. Dear Father (7:06)
December UK tour dates:
Tuesday 10th, London, O2 Arena
Saturday 14th, Sheffield, Sheffield Arena
Monday 16th, Glasgow, Hydro
Wednesday 18th, Manchester, Manchester Arena
Friday 20th, Birmingham, LG Arena
The official UK release date is June the 10th and the band will also tour the UK in December.
All good news for the fans of classic Sabbath but not so good news from Ozzy Osbourne, who recently admitted to having a relapse in his drink and drug habits.
Osbourne's official statement confirmed that for the last year and a half he had been drinking and taking drugs, going on to say that he "...was in a very dark place and was an asshole to the people I love most, my family. However, I am happy to say that I am now 44 days sober.”
The singer also took the opportunity to scupper recent rumours regarding his marriage; rumours fuelled by the fact that they are currently "staying apart due to their overwhelming work commitments" (according to a spokesperson for Sharon Osbourne).
13 tracklisting:
1. End of the Beginning (8:07)
2. God is Dead? (8:54)
3. Loner (5:06)
4. Zeitgeist (4:28)
5. Age of Reason (7:02)
6. Live Forever (4:49)
7. Damaged Soul (7:43)
8. Dear Father (7:06)
December UK tour dates:
Tuesday 10th, London, O2 Arena
Saturday 14th, Sheffield, Sheffield Arena
Monday 16th, Glasgow, Hydro
Wednesday 18th, Manchester, Manchester Arena
Friday 20th, Birmingham, LG Arena
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The feisty blues-rock of the Gwyn Ashton Trio is currently being heard across Europe, as the guitarist takes his Radiogram tour through Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Finland, between the months of April and June.
The band – Ashton, Nick Skelson (bass) and Damien Wilson (drums) – kicked off the tour with a number of UK dates and will play further dates in the UK later in the year.
Radiogram, released last year, is Gwyn Ashton’s best hard-blues rock release to date and will be followed by a new EP, Fistful of Blues, towards the end of April.
Gwyn Ashton Trio (and solo) European and UK dates, May - July:
May
1 - Czech Republic, Kutna Hora, Ceska 1
2 - Czech Republic, Volyne, Muzeum
3 - Czech Republic, Ceske Budejovice, Highway 61
4 - Czech Republic, Zdar n. Sazavou, club Batyskaf
10 - Belgium, Bluesfestival Zottegem
11 - Netherlands, Sint Michielsgestel, Absoluut
31 - UK, Oxon, Cropredy, Red Lion
June
1 - UK, Lancs, Barnsley, Polish Club
2 - UK, Lancs, Barnsley, Polish Club
7 - UK, Oxon, Bicester, The Bell
14 - Finland, Pietarsaari, Hogan's Bar (solo)
15 - Finland, Pietarsaari, Hogan's Bar (solo)
28 - UK, Oxon, Cropredy, Red Lion (acoustic)
July
11 - UK, London, Kent, Chiselhurst, Beaverwood Club
12 - UK, Wilts, Swindon, Rolleston (duo)
13 - UK, West Midlands, Stourbridge, Katie Fitzgerald's
25 - Corsica, Nuits de la Guitare, Patrimonio Festival
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The band – Ashton, Nick Skelson (bass) and Damien Wilson (drums) – kicked off the tour with a number of UK dates and will play further dates in the UK later in the year.
Radiogram, released last year, is Gwyn Ashton’s best hard-blues rock release to date and will be followed by a new EP, Fistful of Blues, towards the end of April.
Gwyn Ashton Trio (and solo) European and UK dates, May - July:
May
1 - Czech Republic, Kutna Hora, Ceska 1
2 - Czech Republic, Volyne, Muzeum
3 - Czech Republic, Ceske Budejovice, Highway 61
4 - Czech Republic, Zdar n. Sazavou, club Batyskaf
10 - Belgium, Bluesfestival Zottegem
11 - Netherlands, Sint Michielsgestel, Absoluut
31 - UK, Oxon, Cropredy, Red Lion
June
1 - UK, Lancs, Barnsley, Polish Club
2 - UK, Lancs, Barnsley, Polish Club
7 - UK, Oxon, Bicester, The Bell
14 - Finland, Pietarsaari, Hogan's Bar (solo)
15 - Finland, Pietarsaari, Hogan's Bar (solo)
28 - UK, Oxon, Cropredy, Red Lion (acoustic)
July
11 - UK, London, Kent, Chiselhurst, Beaverwood Club
12 - UK, Wilts, Swindon, Rolleston (duo)
13 - UK, West Midlands, Stourbridge, Katie Fitzgerald's
25 - Corsica, Nuits de la Guitare, Patrimonio Festival
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Yes, very nice, very... cool (sorry), but while I'm sure the Gold knobs have the extra-notch add-on, the real question and selling point is does the Cold knob go up to 11?
Another classic case of Want vs. Need. And Want wins out. Again.
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After the short series of gigs in 2012 to celebrate their 50th Anniversary, the Rolling Stones will play two major festivals (one a 'double-date') in the summer of 2013.
The band will play at this year’s Glastonbury Festival and have been confirmed as the third of a trio of headlining acts, the others being the Arctic Monkeys and Mumford and Sons.
The Rolling Stones will also play Hyde Park on the 6th and 13th of July, two of a number of events in the Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park series.
It will be the first time the Rolling Stones have played Hyde Park since the legendary "Stones in the Park" free concert of 1969 in front of an estimated 250,000 people.
It was also the band's first show without Brian Jones, who had died just two before. He was replaced by Mick Taylor.
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Another classic case of Want vs. Need. And Want wins out. Again.
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After the short series of gigs in 2012 to celebrate their 50th Anniversary, the Rolling Stones will play two major festivals (one a 'double-date') in the summer of 2013.
The band will play at this year’s Glastonbury Festival and have been confirmed as the third of a trio of headlining acts, the others being the Arctic Monkeys and Mumford and Sons.
The Rolling Stones will also play Hyde Park on the 6th and 13th of July, two of a number of events in the Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time Hyde Park series.
It will be the first time the Rolling Stones have played Hyde Park since the legendary "Stones in the Park" free concert of 1969 in front of an estimated 250,000 people.
It was also the band's first show without Brian Jones, who had died just two before. He was replaced by Mick Taylor.
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The day before the Rolling Stones return to Hyde Park, Bon Jovi will perform as part of the Hyde Park summer series.
The band will have a number of guests performing with them on the 5th of July including the Kaiser Chiefs and Bush, who are scheduled to appear on the main stage.
Smaller stages will play host to a number of different acts and artists including The Futureheads, Rival Sons, Charlie Simpson and The Virginmarys.
One guest who may well be conspicuous by his absence however is Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora, who has taken an indefinite leave of absence from the band due to “personal reasons.”
No official word on the reason for Sambora’s clearly unscheduled departure has been given and he is not expected to return to the current world tour.
Phil X, who played 13 US dates with Bon Jovi in 2011 when he subbed for Sambora, has again taken the guitarist's place in the touring band.
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The band will have a number of guests performing with them on the 5th of July including the Kaiser Chiefs and Bush, who are scheduled to appear on the main stage.
Smaller stages will play host to a number of different acts and artists including The Futureheads, Rival Sons, Charlie Simpson and The Virginmarys.
One guest who may well be conspicuous by his absence however is Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora, who has taken an indefinite leave of absence from the band due to “personal reasons.”
No official word on the reason for Sambora’s clearly unscheduled departure has been given and he is not expected to return to the current world tour.
Phil X, who played 13 US dates with Bon Jovi in 2011 when he subbed for Sambora, has again taken the guitarist's place in the touring band.
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Motley Crue will have a residency in Las Vegas when they perform there from September the 18th to October the 6th.
This is the second time they have taken up residency in Sin City, having previously played there in February 2012. Other bands such as Guns n’ Roses and Def Leppard have since followed suit.
Motley Crue and Las Vegas. Made for each other.
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This is the second time they have taken up residency in Sin City, having previously played there in February 2012. Other bands such as Guns n’ Roses and Def Leppard have since followed suit.
Motley Crue and Las Vegas. Made for each other.
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Slash isn’t one for twiddling his fingers unless he’s running them across the fretboard of his guitars…
According to recent Tweets from the guitarist he is already laying out ideas for his next solo album, with many of those ideas coming from recordings done while on tour.
Slash has also recorded his own version of the theme song for Angry Birds and has been made into a 'Slashbird' character for that popular game (yes, really).
On a related subject, he has also confirmed participation in the Band Fuse: Rock Legends video game.
And then there’s his production company, Slasher films, which has just completed its debut movie – a horror flick by the name of Nothing to Fear.
Slash also has composed the score for the movie, although how he found the time is anyone's guess.
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According to recent Tweets from the guitarist he is already laying out ideas for his next solo album, with many of those ideas coming from recordings done while on tour.
Slash has also recorded his own version of the theme song for Angry Birds and has been made into a 'Slashbird' character for that popular game (yes, really).
On a related subject, he has also confirmed participation in the Band Fuse: Rock Legends video game.
And then there’s his production company, Slasher films, which has just completed its debut movie – a horror flick by the name of Nothing to Fear.
Slash also has composed the score for the movie, although how he found the time is anyone's guess.
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Classic Rock has hosted the online premiere of Black Star Riders’ debut single 'Bound For Glory.'
Click here to head to the page and the audio stream.
'Bound for Glory' is the lead-off single from All Hell Breaks Loose, the debut album from Scott Gorham's Thin Lizzy off-shoot now known as Black Star Riders.
The album was produced by Kevin Shirley and is due for release on May the 27th.
According to Scott Gorham the band "all agreed that 'Bound for Glory' is the perfect choice and represents what Black Star Riders is all about.”
Having heard the song, which is a great little number, absolutely no arguments, Scott.
Black Star Riders is "all about" being the official tribute to Thin Lizzy's sound and Phil Lynott's vocal style (via singer Ricky Warwick's emulation of Lynott's vocal phrasing); In that respect 'Bound for Glory' delivers perfectly.
Changed the name to appease the fans that felt you shouldn't be called Thin Lizzy, but will win over the fans by sounding exactly like Thin Lizzy.
I don't know whether to shake my head or applaud such a clever bit of musical spin.
But then there's a ready-made market and demand for retro/ rewritten classic rock and if you're going to sound like a genuinely classic and legendary act it might as well be Lizzy.
The boys are back in town. Again.
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Click here to head to the page and the audio stream.
'Bound for Glory' is the lead-off single from All Hell Breaks Loose, the debut album from Scott Gorham's Thin Lizzy off-shoot now known as Black Star Riders.
The album was produced by Kevin Shirley and is due for release on May the 27th.
According to Scott Gorham the band "all agreed that 'Bound for Glory' is the perfect choice and represents what Black Star Riders is all about.”
Having heard the song, which is a great little number, absolutely no arguments, Scott.
Black Star Riders is "all about" being the official tribute to Thin Lizzy's sound and Phil Lynott's vocal style (via singer Ricky Warwick's emulation of Lynott's vocal phrasing); In that respect 'Bound for Glory' delivers perfectly.
Changed the name to appease the fans that felt you shouldn't be called Thin Lizzy, but will win over the fans by sounding exactly like Thin Lizzy.
I don't know whether to shake my head or applaud such a clever bit of musical spin.
But then there's a ready-made market and demand for retro/ rewritten classic rock and if you're going to sound like a genuinely classic and legendary act it might as well be Lizzy.
The boys are back in town. Again.
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It seems Alice Cooper fancies recording an album of covers, specifically in honour of his old drinking buddies who were collectively known as "The Hollywood Vampires."
The Shock ‘n’ Roll singer, speaking to Rolling Stone, confirmed he is considering recording an album of tunes inspired by his vampiric buddies once he comes off the road (Cooper is currently touring with Marilyn Manson).
Artists who were part of the drinking coven included Keith Moon, John Lennon, Harry Nilsson and Micky Dolenz.
I’ll certainly raise a glass to the idea and Cooper already implements part of the concept when on stage, performing a number of covers as tribute to friends since passed including 'Revolution' (The Beatles/ Lennon), 'My Generation' (The Who/ Moon), 'Break on Through' (The Doors/ Jim Morrison) and 'Foxy Lady' (Jimi Hendrix).
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The Shock ‘n’ Roll singer, speaking to Rolling Stone, confirmed he is considering recording an album of tunes inspired by his vampiric buddies once he comes off the road (Cooper is currently touring with Marilyn Manson).
Artists who were part of the drinking coven included Keith Moon, John Lennon, Harry Nilsson and Micky Dolenz.
I’ll certainly raise a glass to the idea and Cooper already implements part of the concept when on stage, performing a number of covers as tribute to friends since passed including 'Revolution' (The Beatles/ Lennon), 'My Generation' (The Who/ Moon), 'Break on Through' (The Doors/ Jim Morrison) and 'Foxy Lady' (Jimi Hendrix).
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Dio, featuring the late Ronnie James Dio, will have a remastered concert video released on DVD, Blu-Ray and LP on May the 28th.
Recorded and filmed at the Spectrum on June the 17th, 1986, the show is from the second leg of Dio's Sacred Heart tour.
It will be the first time the concert has been released in the original running order; the new version also includes a remastered soundtrack.
Track listing:
Draco Ignis
King of Rock and Roll
Like the Beat of a Heart
Don't Talk to Strangers
Hungry for Heaven
Medley: 'The Last in Line/ Children of the Sea / Holy Diver / The Last in Line (reprise)
Drum Solo
Heaven and Hell
Keyboard solo
Guitar solo
Sacred Heart
Medley: Rock 'n' Roll Children/ Long Live Rock 'n' Roll/ Man on the Silver Mountain/
Rock 'n' Roll Children (reprise)
Time to Burn
Stand Up and Shout
Rainbow in the Dark
We Rock
DVD/ Blu-Ray bonus features:
Sacred Heart Tour featurette
1986 Interview
Interview with Ronnie James Dio & Craig Goldy
Rock 'n' Roll Children music video
Behind the Scenes
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Recorded and filmed at the Spectrum on June the 17th, 1986, the show is from the second leg of Dio's Sacred Heart tour.
It will be the first time the concert has been released in the original running order; the new version also includes a remastered soundtrack.
Track listing:
Draco Ignis
King of Rock and Roll
Like the Beat of a Heart
Don't Talk to Strangers
Hungry for Heaven
Medley: 'The Last in Line/ Children of the Sea / Holy Diver / The Last in Line (reprise)
Drum Solo
Heaven and Hell
Keyboard solo
Guitar solo
Sacred Heart
Medley: Rock 'n' Roll Children/ Long Live Rock 'n' Roll/ Man on the Silver Mountain/
Rock 'n' Roll Children (reprise)
Time to Burn
Stand Up and Shout
Rainbow in the Dark
We Rock
DVD/ Blu-Ray bonus features:
Sacred Heart Tour featurette
1986 Interview
Interview with Ronnie James Dio & Craig Goldy
Rock 'n' Roll Children music video
Behind the Scenes
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So Bonnie Tyler is the latest singer to step up to the poisoned chalice that is the microphone of the UK entry in the Eurovision Song Contest: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-21697205
'Believe in Me' is from the gravel-voiced Welsh soft rocker's new album Rocks & Honey and fits the classic, cookie-cutter arms-and-lighters (well, back-lit iPhones these days) in-the-air orchestrated ballad profile perfectly.
Englebert Humperdink... Bonnie Tyler... why not bring back Cliff Richard back (seriously) but with a re-imagined and re-written take on his own Eurovison classic:
"Congratulations... for taking a once genuinely entertaining mix-of-genres music event and transforming it into a mix of shit Euro-Dance pop, MTV fashions and political voting."
OK, it doesn't scan well, but I'll work on it...
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'Believe in Me' is from the gravel-voiced Welsh soft rocker's new album Rocks & Honey and fits the classic, cookie-cutter arms-and-lighters (well, back-lit iPhones these days) in-the-air orchestrated ballad profile perfectly.
Englebert Humperdink... Bonnie Tyler... why not bring back Cliff Richard back (seriously) but with a re-imagined and re-written take on his own Eurovison classic:
"Congratulations... for taking a once genuinely entertaining mix-of-genres music event and transforming it into a mix of shit Euro-Dance pop, MTV fashions and political voting."
OK, it doesn't scan well, but I'll work on it...
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The third MelodicRockFest event, organised by Melodicrock.com and Andrew McNeice, takes place over the 27th to 29th of September 2013 at the H.O.M.E (House Of Music & Entertainment) Bar Chicago.
Full itinerary, band listings and further information including ticket sales, pricing and options can be found at the official website: http://www.melodicrockfest.com/
The event does what it says on the tin, delivering melodic rock acts and artists over the three days including acoustic sets.
Acts and artists performing include Eric Martin, Glen Burtnik, Harem Scarem, W.E.T. and Steve Augeri.
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The event does what it says on the tin, delivering melodic rock acts and artists over the three days including acoustic sets.
Acts and artists performing include Eric Martin, Glen Burtnik, Harem Scarem, W.E.T. and Steve Augeri.
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John Fogerty will release his new solo-duet album on May the 28th.
The singer-songwriter’s forthcoming album, Wrote a Song for Everyone, features both Creedence Clearwater Revival classics and songs from the singer songwriter’s own catalogue.
Most songs have been recorded as collaborations with artists or bands from different musical genres and the full track listing is as follows:
‘Fortunate Son’ (with the Foo Fighters)
‘Almost Saturday Night’ (with Keith Urban)
‘Lodi’ (with Shane Fogerty and Tyler Fogerty)
‘Mystic Highway’ (John Fogerty solo)
‘Wrote a Song for Everyone’ (with Miranda Lambert and featuring Tom Morello)
‘Bad Moon Rising’ (with the Zac Brown Band)
‘Long as I Can See the Light’ (with My Morning Jacket)
‘Born on the Bayou’ (with Kid Rock)
‘Train of Fools’ (John Fogerty solo)
‘Someday Never Comes’ (with Dawes)
‘Who'll Stop the Rain’ (with Bob Seger)
‘Hot Rod Heart’ (with Brad Paisley)
‘Have You Ever Seen the Rain’ (with Alan Jackson)
‘Proud Mary’ (with Jennifer Hudson featuring Allen Toussaint and the Rebirth Brass Band)
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The singer-songwriter’s forthcoming album, Wrote a Song for Everyone, features both Creedence Clearwater Revival classics and songs from the singer songwriter’s own catalogue.
Most songs have been recorded as collaborations with artists or bands from different musical genres and the full track listing is as follows:
‘Fortunate Son’ (with the Foo Fighters)
‘Almost Saturday Night’ (with Keith Urban)
‘Lodi’ (with Shane Fogerty and Tyler Fogerty)
‘Mystic Highway’ (John Fogerty solo)
‘Wrote a Song for Everyone’ (with Miranda Lambert and featuring Tom Morello)
‘Bad Moon Rising’ (with the Zac Brown Band)
‘Long as I Can See the Light’ (with My Morning Jacket)
‘Born on the Bayou’ (with Kid Rock)
‘Train of Fools’ (John Fogerty solo)
‘Someday Never Comes’ (with Dawes)
‘Who'll Stop the Rain’ (with Bob Seger)
‘Hot Rod Heart’ (with Brad Paisley)
‘Have You Ever Seen the Rain’ (with Alan Jackson)
‘Proud Mary’ (with Jennifer Hudson featuring Allen Toussaint and the Rebirth Brass Band)
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The Who will be performing their 1973 double album Quadrophenia in its entirety in the UK this summer, over eleven dates in June and a performance at London's Wembley Arena in July.
With staging direction by Roger Daltrey, the new presentation of the album will avoid the narratives of previous concert versions and feature screen projected imagery.
Proceeds from the show will go to the band's Double O Charity.
Founded in 1976, the charity assists in a number of significant areas including drug and alcohol damage, domestic violence, sexual abuse, music education, emergency relief for International disasters and young people’s prison reform.
Daltrey and Pete Townshend will be joined by Zak Starkey (drums), Pino Palladino (bass), Simon Townshend (guitar/ backing vocals), John Corey (keyboards), Loren Gold (keyboards/ backing vocals) and Frank Simes (musical director, keyboards/ backing vocals).
Quadrophenia tour dates:
June 8th – The O2, Dublin
June 10th – Odyssey, Belfast
June 12th – SECC, Glasgow
June 15th & 16th – The O2, London
June 18th – Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield
June 20th – Metro Arena, Newcastle
June 23rd – The Manchester Arena, Manchester
June 25th – Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff
June 28th – LG Arena, Birmingham
June 30th – Echo Arena, Liverpool
July 8th – Wembley Arena, London
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With staging direction by Roger Daltrey, the new presentation of the album will avoid the narratives of previous concert versions and feature screen projected imagery.
Proceeds from the show will go to the band's Double O Charity.
Founded in 1976, the charity assists in a number of significant areas including drug and alcohol damage, domestic violence, sexual abuse, music education, emergency relief for International disasters and young people’s prison reform.
Daltrey and Pete Townshend will be joined by Zak Starkey (drums), Pino Palladino (bass), Simon Townshend (guitar/ backing vocals), John Corey (keyboards), Loren Gold (keyboards/ backing vocals) and Frank Simes (musical director, keyboards/ backing vocals).
Quadrophenia tour dates:
June 8th – The O2, Dublin
June 10th – Odyssey, Belfast
June 12th – SECC, Glasgow
June 15th & 16th – The O2, London
June 18th – Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield
June 20th – Metro Arena, Newcastle
June 23rd – The Manchester Arena, Manchester
June 25th – Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff
June 28th – LG Arena, Birmingham
June 30th – Echo Arena, Liverpool
July 8th – Wembley Arena, London
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At the same time The Who will be performing Quadrophenia in Liverpool, Ian Anderson will be revisiting a vintage, and classic, album of his own…
On the 30th June Ian Anderson will perform Thick as a Brick at the Royal Albert Hall, some 41 years after it was first performed there by Jethro Tull. The show will be Anderson's only UK date this year.
Thick as a Brick, regarded as one of the definitive concept-albums of the 70’s, is based on a poem written by fictitious 10 year old boy Gerald Bostock.
Thick as a Brick 2, written and released by Anderson in 2012, was both a celebration of the original album’s 40th anniversary and an examination of the possible different paths Gerald Bostock may have taken in later life.
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On the 30th June Ian Anderson will perform Thick as a Brick at the Royal Albert Hall, some 41 years after it was first performed there by Jethro Tull. The show will be Anderson's only UK date this year.
Thick as a Brick, regarded as one of the definitive concept-albums of the 70’s, is based on a poem written by fictitious 10 year old boy Gerald Bostock.
Thick as a Brick 2, written and released by Anderson in 2012, was both a celebration of the original album’s 40th anniversary and an examination of the possible different paths Gerald Bostock may have taken in later life.
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Journey, Whitesnake and Thunder will perform eight dates across the UK in May.
Forming in effect a Monsters of Rock triple header, Journey and Whitesnake will co-headline (but with Journey top of the bill) with Thunder as special guests.
It’s certainly a good fit for Thunder, who have enjoyed renewed live success since calling it a day in 2009 (with an earlier hiatus from 2000 to 2002).
The band’s well received slot at the High Voltage festival in London in 2011 was followed by two sell-out Christmas gigs in Nottingham.
Thunder played two Christmas shows at the end of 2012 and lead vocalist Danny Bowes has confirmed the May dates with Journey and Whitesnake may encourage the band to play more shows in 2013.
Dates (May 2013):
Saturday 18th - SECC, Glasgow
Monday 20th - Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield
Wednesday 22nd - Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle
Thursday 23rd - Manchester Arena
Saturday 25th - Capital FM Arena, Nottingham
Sunday 26the - Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff
Tuesday 28th - LG Arena, Birmingham
Wednesday 29th - Wembley Arena, London
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Forming in effect a Monsters of Rock triple header, Journey and Whitesnake will co-headline (but with Journey top of the bill) with Thunder as special guests.
It’s certainly a good fit for Thunder, who have enjoyed renewed live success since calling it a day in 2009 (with an earlier hiatus from 2000 to 2002).
The band’s well received slot at the High Voltage festival in London in 2011 was followed by two sell-out Christmas gigs in Nottingham.
Thunder played two Christmas shows at the end of 2012 and lead vocalist Danny Bowes has confirmed the May dates with Journey and Whitesnake may encourage the band to play more shows in 2013.
Dates (May 2013):
Saturday 18th - SECC, Glasgow
Monday 20th - Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield
Wednesday 22nd - Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle
Thursday 23rd - Manchester Arena
Saturday 25th - Capital FM Arena, Nottingham
Sunday 26the - Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff
Tuesday 28th - LG Arena, Birmingham
Wednesday 29th - Wembley Arena, London
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The Moody Blues will embark on a 14 date UK tour in June, but for the second time in as many years do not (at least as yet), have a Scottish date on the schedule (or an Irish date for that matter).
Not good enough boys, and now I have to contact the band, management and tour promoter as the wife is not best pleased and has got a severe dose of the moody blues.
But clearly won’t have come June.
The confirmed June 2013 dates and locations are:
Oxford New Theatre (5th)
Cardiff St David’s Hall (7th)
Birmingham LG Arena (8th)
Liverpool Philharmonic Hall (9th)
Newcastle City Hall (11th)
Manchester Apollo (12th)
Sheffield City Hall (14th)
Nottingham Royal Concert Hall (15th)
Ipswich Regent Theatre (17th)
Plymouth Pavilions (18th)
Bournemouth BIC (19th)
Brighton Centre (21st)
London 02 Arena (22nd)
Bristol Hippodrome (23rd)
Not good enough boys, and now I have to contact the band, management and tour promoter as the wife is not best pleased and has got a severe dose of the moody blues.
But clearly won’t have come June.
The confirmed June 2013 dates and locations are:
Oxford New Theatre (5th)
Cardiff St David’s Hall (7th)
Birmingham LG Arena (8th)
Liverpool Philharmonic Hall (9th)
Newcastle City Hall (11th)
Manchester Apollo (12th)
Sheffield City Hall (14th)
Nottingham Royal Concert Hall (15th)
Ipswich Regent Theatre (17th)
Plymouth Pavilions (18th)
Bournemouth BIC (19th)
Brighton Centre (21st)
London 02 Arena (22nd)
Bristol Hippodrome (23rd)
