Hard Rock Hideout

Four days. More than fifty bands. Two stages. Multiple genres of rock. It’s time to get wild. Workaholics Candlebox will rock the main stage at Rock Gone Wild. British Metallers Saxon and the Gypsy Pistoleros have agreed to cross the pond just to party with you at the festival. Rock Gone Wild is slated for August 20-23, 2009 in Algona, Iowa. Tickets are available now by visiting www.rockgonewild.com.

Forming in the early 1990s, Candlebox immediately broke from their Seattle brethren. While many bands from the region followed the grunge path, Candlebox made their own way. Blending modern sound with classic guitar rock, Candlebox created their own unique sound – and gathered an army of fans along the way. The band’s self-titled debut became a near instant success, spawning several hit singles including “Far Behind” and “You.” Candlebox are currently supporting their newest hit album Into the Sun, released earlier this year. Candlebox is Kevin Martin (vocals, guitar), Peter Klett (guitar), Scott Mercado (drums), Adam Kury (bass) and Sean Hennesy (rhythm guitar).

Leading the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, Saxon formed at the end of the 1970s and created a signature sound that new bands still attempt to imitate today. Saxon released their self-titled debut in 1979, but it wasn’t until 1980 and Wheels of Steel that the band really began to take hold. Since the early years, Saxon has weathered several lineup changes and continued to tour heavily and record new music. Lead singer Biff Byford has remained a constant force in the band, bringing a balls out in-your-face Metal show to each and every paying customer. Be warned! Stand close to the stage when Saxon plays and you will be rocked. Saxon is Biff Byford (vocals), Doug Scarratt (guitar), Paul Quinn (guitar), Nibbs Carter (bass) and Nigel Glockler (drums).

The Gypsy Pistoleros are the world’s greatest flamenco glam band! If you’ve never seen the Gypsy Pistoleros perform live…get ready: you’ll never be the same again. The band is a mix of Brit charm, Spanish flavor and glam swagger. Lee Pistolero (vocals), Iggie Pistolero (guitar), Nasty Pistolero (bass) and Harri Pistolero (drums) are the Gypsy Pistoleros.