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1 Free Video Download of “These Days” From The Foo Fighters
Check out the video premiere of “These Days” from the Foo Fighters latest album Wasting Light. Download it for free today exclusively on iTunes! This is a limited time offer so act now!!
0 Glyder – Backroads To Byzantium (2011)
Irish band Glyder recently released their fourth album, Backroads To Byzantium. This was my first exposure to the band and what stood out immediately was Glyder’s 70s style rock sound. While there is not one 70s band in particular they can be compared to, Glyder’s sound is an amalgamation of all 70s rock, from Fleetwood Mac to T-Rex. The band certainly falls into the soft rock category much more than the hard rock side.
While Backroads To Byzantium didn’t wow me out of the gate, it still has its moments and gems. “Even If I Don’t Know Where I’m Gonna Go” is a great highway cruising song and the slide guitar by Bat Kinane and Pete Fisher are stupendous. In fact, the guitar work throughout Backroads To Byzantium is in the upper echelon of greatness. Kinane and Fisher are both expert guitarists and their ability is stamped all over this album.
At the center of the songs is lead singer Jackie Robinson. His smoky voice is a blend of Skynyrd and Allman. Robinson solidifies the 70s style rock and roll that Glyder performs and his voice, while limited in range, is a unique and memorable force. Robinson is the perfect singer for Glyder as his vocal style is an exceptional accompaniment to the music Glyder performs.
The best song on Backroads To Byzantium is easily the last one. “Motions Of Time” is the big ballad and final track of the record. Armed with a memorable hook and fantastic guitar picking, “Motions Of Time,” is as emotional as a ballad should be and left me wanting to hear more songs like this. Obviously Glyder didn’t want to put out an album of ballads, but it appears to be one of the bands strengths. “Motions Of Time” is a blissful mix of blues and acoustic rock.
If you are a fan of the softer side of rock, then Backroads To Byzantium is something you are bound to enjoy. The guitar work alone makes the album worthy of a few spins. However, if you are looking for something a little heavier, then it’s best to pass this one by.
Rating: 
Out of 10
Track Listing:
- Chronicled Deceit
- Long Gone
- Fade To Dust
- Even If I Don’t Know Where I’m Gonna Go
- Don’t Make Their Mistake
- Down & Out
- Something She Knows
- Two Wrongs
- End Of The Line
- Motions Of Time
Glyder Is:
Jackie Robinson – Vocals
Bat Kinane – Guitars
Pete Fisher – Guitars
Graham McClatchie – Bass
Des McEvoy – Drums
0 THE DARKNESS: DEBUT “NOTHIN’S GONNA STOP US” –FIRST NEW SONG FROM THE BRITISH BAND IN SIX YEARS– WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1 ON WWW.ROLLINGSTONE.COM
MULTI-PLATINUM GROUP KICK OFF NORTH AMERICAN TOUR WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1
WITH A SOLD-OUT SHOW IN TORONTO
THE DARKNESS are coming!
The multi-platinum British group has reunited and is ready to storm North America with their electrifying and outrageous rock n’ roll. On Wednesday, February 1, THE DARKNESS–original members JUSTIN HAWKINS (vocals/guitars), DAN HAWKINS (guitars/backing vocals), FRANKIE POULLAIN (bass) and ED GRAHAM (drums)–will debut “Nothin’s Gonna Stop Us,” their first new song in six years. The song and video will premiere on www.RollIingStone.com at 9:00 AM EST and be available on the band’s official site www.theactualdarkness.com. Fans have waited patiently since THE DARKNESS last released material in 2006, and “Nothin’s Gonna Stop Us” will be available for free as a “Thank you” for all who’ve supported the band with sold-out tours on both sides of the Atlantic. The video for the song was created by artist Thom Lessner and director Ted Passon–and it was worth the wait. Check out a sneak-peek of the artwork here:
Also on February 1, THE DARKNESS kick-off their first North American tour since 2004 to a sold-out crowd in Toronto and wrapping February 25 in Seattle; the dates are below, with the majority of them sold-out in advance. After winning three prestigious BRIT Awards, rocking sold-out crowds across the globe and selling millions of records worldwide, the group has established quite a formidable legacy in less than a decade. The new tour features all the guitar mastery and electrifying performances that THE DARKNESS are well-known for. The group will perform music from 2003’s multi-platinum album Permission To Land, including favorites “I Believe In A Thing Called Love” and “Get Your Hands Off My Woman”; 2005’s One-Way Ticket To Hell And Back with “One Way Ticket” and “Is It Just Me?”; as well as several new songs off their forthcoming yet-to-be-titled third album.
Watch THE DARKNESS performing “I Believe In A Thing Called Love” with Queen guitarist Brian May at their sold-out Hammersmith Apollo show this past November 2011.
THE DARKNESS performing with Brian May:
For more on THE DARKNESS, check out the following sites:
www.theactualdarkness.com
www.facebook.com/thedarknessofficial
www.twitter.com/darknessactual
2 New Album from The Cult Coming Soon: Free Download of New Song “Lucifer”
The Cult’s new album, Choice of Weapon, will be released May 22nd via Cooking Vinyl Records.
The album track listing is below:
Honey From a Knife
Elemental Light
For The Animals
Life>Death
The Wolf
Amnesia
Lucifer
Wilderness Now
A Pale Horse
This Night in the City Forever
You can check out the new song “Lucifer” by entering your email in the box below!
1 Halestorm’s – “The Strange Case Of…” Coming April 10th
Atlantic recording group Halestorm has announced the release of their hugely anticipated new album. “THE STRANGE CASE OF…” arrives in stores and at all DSPs on April 10th.
The album is heralded by the electrifying new single, “Love Bites (So Do I),” impacting now at Rock radio outlets nationwide. The track — as well as three other highlights from “THE STRANGE CASE OF…” — is featured on Halestorm’s new EP, “HELLO, IT’S MZ. HYDE,” which is available today at all leading digital retailers.
Produced by Howard Benson (who previously collaborated with the Pennsylvania-based hard rock band on their self-titled 2009 debut), “THE STRANGE CASE OF…” was recently named among Revolver’s “Most Anticipated Albums of the Year.” “Led by one of our favorite rocker babes, singer-guitarist Lzzy Hale, (Halestorm) promise a more personal album for their follow-up,” the magazine noted. “But don’t expect them to get all sappy on us. There should still be more than enough of the band’s now signature raucous attitude and righteous riffs for any headbanger to get off.”
Currently poised to embark on a European tour alongside Atlantic’s own Shinedown, Halestorm will hit the road hard to support “THE STRANGE CASE OF…,” beginning with a major U.S. trek alongside Godsmack and fellow Atlantic recording group Staind. The dates get underway April 13th at Augusta, Georgia’s John Paul Jones Arena and then continue through mid-May (see itinerary below). For full details and ticket information, please visit www.halestormrocks.com/tour-dates.
Formed by frontwoman Lzzy Hale and her brother, drummer Arejay Hale, Halestorm has been hailed far and wide as an incendiary new force in modern hard rock. “HALESTORM” made a top 5 debut on SoundScan’s “Hard Music” chart upon its 2009 release, simultaneously bursting into the top 40 on the comprehensive Billboard 200. The album subsequently sold more than 300,000 copies, and half a million cumulative tracks. Produced by Howard Benson (Daughtry, My Chemical Romance, Flyleaf), the album earned extensive acclaim for its infectious hard rock anthems, sexy hooks, and rough-and-tumble grooves.
“THE STRANGE CASE OF…” marks Halestorm’s first release since last year’s “ReAniMate: The CoVeRs eP,” which saw the band putting their unique stamp on a diverse collection of classic songs, including tracks by Guns N’ Roses, The Beatles, Heart, Temple Of The Dog, Skid Row, and Lady Gaga. Halestorm also unleashed their first-ever live CD/DVD, “LIVE IN PHILLY 2010,” featuring such favorites from the band’s self-titled debut as “It’s Not You,” “Familiar Taste of Poison,” and the rock radio smash “I Get Off.”
True road warriors, Halestorm made its bones as a major league hard rock outfit via countless North American gigs alongside such artists as Shinedown, Avenged Sevenfold, and Disturbed. Last year saw the band traveling the country on the blockbuster “Avalanche Tour 2011,” joining such hard rock luminaries as Stone Sour, Theory of a Deadman, Art of Dying, and fellow Atlantic recording group Skillet.
For up-to-the-minute news and tour information, please visit Halestorm at www.myspace.com/halestorm, www.halestormrocks.com and www.twitter.com/halestormrocks.
(TRACKLISTING BELOW)
(TOUR ITINERARY BELOW)
| HALESTORM |
| “THE STRANGE CASE OF…” (Atlantic) |
| Release Date: April 10th |
- Love Bites (So Do I)
- Mz. Hyde
- I Miss The Misery
- Freak Like Me
- Beautiful With You
- In Your Room
- Break In
- Rock Show
- Daughters Of Darkness
- You Call Me A Bitch Like It’s A Bad Thing
- American Boys
- Here’s To Us
| Halestorm – ON TOUR 2012 | ||||
| All Dates Supporting STAIND/GODSMACK except * | ||||
| April | ||||
| 13 | Augusta, GA | James Brown Arena | ||
| 15 | Estero, FL | Germain Arena | ||
| 17 | New Orleans, LA | UNO Lakefront Arena | ||
| 18 | Lafayette, LA | Cajundome | ||
| 21 | Lubbock, TX | Lone Star Amphitheatre | ||
| 22 | Belton, TX | Bell County Expo Center | ||
| 24 | Beaumont, TX | Ford Pavilion | ||
| 25 | Laredo, TX | Laredo Energy Arena | ||
| 28 | Tampa, FL | St. Petersburg Times Forum* | ||
| May | ||||
| 1 | Corpus Christi, TX | Concrete Street Amphitheatre | ||
| 2 | San Antonio, TX | Illusions Theatre / Alamodome | ||
| 6 | Evansville, IN | Ford Center | ||
| 9 | Battle Creek, MI | Kellogg Arena | ||
| 11 | Nashville, TN | Bridgestone Arena | ||
| 12 | Huntington, WV | Big Sandy Superstore Arena | ||
| 15 | Syracuse, NY | SRC Arena & Event Center | ||
| 16 | Manchester, NH | Verizon Wireless Arena | ||
| 18 | Flint, MI | Machine Shop* | ||
8 M3 Rock Festival Announces 2012 Lineup
M3 has announced their 2012 lineup. Tickets go on sale February 3rd. Check out the full lineup below!
OFFICIAL M3 KIX-OFF PARTY & CONCERT FRIDAY, MAY 11 at 5pm 2012 M3 ROCK FESTIVAL SATURDAY, MAY 12 at 11am
Discounted 2-Day Packages on sale Friday, February 3 If Available, Single-Day Tickets On Sale Friday, February 24
The heavy metal time machine will turn back to the 1980s and ʻ90s when Queensryche, Cinderella, Ratt, Kix, Warrant and Night Ranger are among the 19 bands to take over Merriweather Post Pavilion, playing full sets of their glam rock and heavy metal hits. For the first time, M3 fans wonʼt have to choose between bands with overlapping set times, since each band will play one at a time. Also, the festival will take place on two separate stages, each simulcasting the other, giving fans the option to stay in one seat and watch all the bands as they appear on both stages, or fans can move from stage to stage without missing a note.
In its fourth year, I.M.P. Presents M3 Rock Festival starts with The Official M3 Kix-Off Party Friday May 11th at 7pm. Acts playing Friday night include Night Ranger, Kix, Enuff ZʼNuff, In the Pink and Let There Be Rock. The full- blown 2012 M3 Rock Festival begins Saturday, May 12th at 11am and will include Queensryche, Cinderella, Ratt, Skid Row, Warrant, Quiet Riot, Dokken, Stryper, Loudness, Lynch Mob, XYZ, Bang Tango, Drumwars, and Street Light Circus.
Each year VIP and Pavilion seats sell out in minutes. VIP and discounted 2-Day Packages will go on sale Friday, Feb. 3 at 10am EST through Ticketfly. If there are any tickets remaining as of February 24th, they will go on sale as Single-Day tickets at 10 am EST. Tickets can also be purchased at the Merriweather and 9:30 Club Box Offices. For more information, visit http://www.ticketfly.com/ or http://www.m3rockfest.com
VIP ticket holders will have:
• Private VIP Entrance gate
• Official M3 2012 Festival T-shirt
• Official M3 2012 Concert Poster
• Access to floor and prime pavilion seating
• Access to M3 VIP Deck located backstage (includes access to VIP concessions and VIP restrooms)
• Access to Artist Meet-&-Greet Lounge.
0 RIOT – ‘The Darkness That All Men Must Face…’
It was with great sadness that we had to announce that Mark Reale, the founder of US metal legends RIOT, passed away last week, having lost his battle with Crohn’s disease. He was just 56 years old. Mark’s band mates have been devastated by his death.
Mike Flyntz on his personal loss: “I would like to thank everyone for the support and love regarding the passing of my dear friend Mark Reale. I have had the honor to stand next to him on the stage and in the studio for over 22 years. Mark gave me the opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream of recording and writing records, and also touring in support of those records.
I was a fan first, getting his autograph after a RIOT show at L’Amours when I was in college. Mark was a shy man who didn’t talk much unless he was being interviewed or on the phone. Lord knows he could talk on the phone. Mark also loved to laugh. One part of our special relationship was that we could laugh until we were crying, and he would be lying on the floor yelling “please stop” and after 5 minutes of silence all I had to do was look at him and it would start all over. I will forever cherish those moments.
As far as a musician, he is the most underrated guitarist, song writer, riff creator, visionary in rock music. He should be in the Rock-n-Roll hall of fame for his vibrato alone. LISTEN TO HIS VIBRATO. His sense of melody was incredible. He taught me so much. There is so much more I need to say about my friend but I have been at a loss of words since his passing. The only comfort I have is that he is out of pain. Thank you everyone!”
The family will receive friends and fans near and far to join them on Tuesday, January 31, from 6:00-8:00 P.M. at Porter Loring Mortuary North, San Antonio, Texas
A guestbook can be found here: Guestbook
Mass will take place: WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012 12:00 P.M.
AT ST. MARK THE EVANGELIST CATHOLIC CHURCH 1602 THOUSAND OAKS, San Antonio, Texas 78232
All are welcomed and encouraged to attend this service.
http://www.stmarkevangelist.com
A processional will follow to Holy Cross Cemetery for Interment
If you would like to sign Mark’s living guest book, please click onto this link now.
Mark Reale Obituary Guest Book
Crohn’s Disease is a form of inflammatory bowel disease, which had afflicted the guitarist for pretty much all his life. While rehearsing for the band’s upcoming shows, Mark was hospitalised in San Antonio on 13th January. His condition deteriorated and it was apparent that he would not be well enough to play the band’s forthcoming dates.
With the blessing of Mark’s family RIOT fulfilled their live obligations (on 18th January 2012 at B.B. Kings, New York City, 20th January 2012 at Montage Music Hall, Rochester and 70,000 Tons of Metal Cruise) as a four-piece, with Mark Flyntz covering all guitar duties.
Mark co-founded RIOT in 1976 in New York. Two years later they released their first album ‘Rock City’ and despite numerous line-up changes Mark steered the band through good times and bad for a staggering 36 years. The band’s recently-released fourteenth studio album ‘Immortal Soul’ saw the reformation of the line-up responsible for two of the band’s most popular albums (‘Thundersteel’ and ‘The Privilege Of Power’) and has been almost universally acclaimed as a massive return to form. Given that Mark was so crucial to RIOT‘s longevity it is far too early to speculate on the band’s future.
With heartfelt thanks to the fans in the United States, Europe, Japan, and all places in between for all their support over the years. RIOT meant everything to Mark, the loyalty and love of his fans fueled his passion and desire to continue making music for as long as possible. Please keep Mark Reale in your hearts and his memory alive within you.
For more informatiion visit:
5 Sinners – 6pak EP (2011)
You have heard ‘em on the Hard Rock Nights Radio show. You have heard ‘em on Class X Radio. The Cincinnati Sinners have released a six song EP titled 6pak. Russell Jenkins, who has previously sang in the bands Prizoner and CJSS, is somewhat of a local legend in the Cincinnati music scene. It is damn good to see him back in action,in his new band Sinners.
On the 6pak EP, The Sinners have released five original tunes, and a fun cover of the Rolling Stones’ classic, “It’s Only Rock N Roll”. The five original tunes that rock hard and are a blast to listen to. The high-octane rocker “Thunder” sounds like a blend of classic AC/DC and Foghat. I have been fortunate enough to see Sinners play this one live, and it rocks just as hard on the CD, as it does live. “Cold Pussy Strut” is a sleazy rocker that could have easily been written by Taime Downe. This song sounds like it could have come out of the late 80’s. (Check it out in the clip below!)
“Girls, Cars, Guitars And Rock N Roll” is a simple but fun rocker, about….wait for it….. girls, cars, guitars and rock n’ roll. This is a catchy tune with some pretty rockin’ guitar riffs.
“Big Sexxy” is the only song on the 6pak that has a southern rock vibe. This song could actually get airplay on rock and country stations, although it definitely more on the rock side of the house.
“Sinnerz Swing” is the heaviest song on the 6pak. This style of this song reminds me a lot of Kid Rock, but very cool nonetheless.
There isn’t a bad song on the 6Pak, and it definitely worth of a download. You can purchase the Mp3 downloads of the Sinners 6pak at iTunes and Amazon.com. for more information on Sinners, please check out the band’s Facebook page.
Don’t miss out on the 6pak!! I think you will enjoy it, I sure am!
Rating: 
Out of 10
Track Listing:
01. Thunder
02. Cold Pussy Strut
03. It’s Only Rock N Roll
04. Girls, Cars, Guitars And Rock N Roll
05. Big Sexxy
06. Sinnerz Swing
Sinners are:
Russell Jenkins – Vocals, Guitars
Dan Norris – Drums
Stephen Krause – Guitars, Vocals
Rudy Garcia – Bass, Vocals
0 TRACER announce April 2012 UK Headline Tour
Due to popular demand, Australian power rock trio TRACER kick off their first nationwide headline UK tour at London’s Islington O2 Academy on Tuesday 24th April.
Planet Rock will start a 48-hour ticket pre-sale from Wednesday 1st February at 9am, ents24’s pre-sale will follow from Thursday. Tickets go on general sale at 10am on Friday 3rd February via the 24 hour ticket hotline: 0844 478 0898, Gig Cartel.
Tuesday 24th April Islington O2 Academy 2, London
Wednesday 25th April The Tunnels, Bristol
Thursday 26th April Manchester Academy 3
Friday 27th April The Duchess, York
Saturday 28th April The Plug, Sheffield
TRACER was recently voted third place in Planet Rock’s “Best New Band” listeners’ poll. Over the past four months the station has played the singles Too Much and Devil Ride, both taken from Tracer’s debut critically acclaimed album Spaces In Between. The upcoming UK headline tour follows Tracer’s 2011 tour supporting Royal Republic.
TRACER has captured the excitement and adrenalin rush of rock’n’roll. Tracer’s sound embodies the same raw dynamics and edge to that of Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, Queens of the Stone Age and Black Sabbath. Classic Rock magazine recently deemed them “New Band of the Month”, while Total Guitar, Rock Sound, Guitarist, Fireworks and Powerplay awarded the debut 4 stars. Hailing from Adelaide, South Australia, the trio embrace a sonic sledgehammer sound steeped in epic guitars, thunderous riffs and raw, uncompromising vocals. Their Australian blend of 90’s stoner and 70’s classic rock continues to win them new fans.
Check out Tracer’s video “Too Much” below.
If you like this song, you can download it for free via the Soundcloud link below!
2 New Halestorm EP, “Hello, It’s Ms. Hyde” Available Now
Halestorm has released a new four song EP, “Hell, It’s Ms. Hyde”. This EP is the precursor for the band’s full length CD due later this year. Some of the songs are easily the heaviest of Halestorm’s career.
The four songs “Love Bites (So Do I)”, “Rock Show”, “Daughters of Darkness” and “Here’s To Us” can be previewed below! You can purchase the EP at Halestorm’s official webstore or iTunes. Check it out!
0 Iron Maiden guitarist Adrian Smith & former SikTh front-man Mikee Goodman Join Forces in Primal Rock Rebellion!
VERY OFTEN, musicians — especially established ones — like to remain within their musical comfort zone, preferring to walk the tried an’ tested path rather than breaking out in search of pastures new. Primal Rock Rebellion don’t fit that bill.
The brainchild of Adrian Smith and Mikee Goodman, UK musicians with different stories to tell, this is a fresh new project that manages to be both reassuring and unexpected at one and the same time…
On the one side, there’s Adrian, a key member of the Iron Maiden set-up, a band he first joined back in 1980; and since that time, Maiden has gone on to become one of the biggest hard rock bands the world has seen, playing to vast and staunchly committed crowds all over the world, opening exciting new doors in parts of the globe many people will never even have heard of! Their last studio album, ‘The Final Frontier’, hit the No 1 slot in over 28 countries!
With Maiden’s reputation having been forged through their ability to blend well-crafted vocal & guitar melodies with the sheer brute force of prime heavy metal, it will surely come as no surprise that the debut Primal Rock Rebellion album, ‘Awoken Broken’, delivers fully on both fronts, but with an extra nod to the underground, the alternative and the downright edgy — an aspect of the music that is enhanced from start to finish by the presence of one-time SikTh frontman / lyric-writer / spoken word maestro, Mikee Goodman.
With SikTh now universally lauded as one of the major inspirations of the new ‘Djent’ movement, it’s perfect timing for Mikee to return to the music scene in full force, following that band’s decision to take a break after their second ‘Death Of A Dead Day’ album back in 2006; Mikee’s unique vocal approach — an arresting, signature blend of spoken word plus a wide variety of vocal tones (some dark and disturbing, others that owe a debt to the world of animation) was very much a part of what made SikTh stand out from the chasing pack, and fans will be delighted to know that his key vocal mannerisms have been both retained and honed for Primal Rock Rebellion, in a form tightly bound to the structure of the songs themselves.
Yes, there are spoken word elements, and yes, there are more extreme vocal moments peppered throughout the tracks, but generally speaking, this is a more mature and experienced Mikee, showcasing a strong, melodic voice plus an impressive vocal range, using the more ‘adventurous’ end of his repertoire as a way of providing contrast and effect.
In essence, Primal Rock Rebellion is the meeting of different minds, different mentalities and different musical backgrounds, but the end result is very much a cohesive, self-produced whole… albeit one that reflects the individual talents of the musicians involved: Adrian provides the guitars, the bass and the advanced song-writing skills — the sense of drama, of light and shade, of music designed to stir the senses, all of them.
Right from the start, it’s been very much a labour of love…
Adrian: “It was great working at my own pace and in my own studio with no time constraints. I think during the making of this album I went around the world twice with Maiden, working on the project in between. In the process, it allowed for a bit more of an experimental approach.”
Meanwhile, Mikee goes head to head with this renowned player as a full writing & production partner, adding new (sometimes surprising, often experimental) layers to the tracks, and ensuring that the music glistens with an inherent contemporary sheen.
Mikee: “Adrian inspired me in many ways. I learnt the importance and the power of choruses in songs. Adrian also gave me a lot more belief in myself melodically. I think we pulled each other out of our comfort zones, creating something fresh and exciting along the way. We co-produced the album together, and the whole recording process was very relaxed — no deadlines, just honing the songs naturally as we recorded them, a new experience for both of us.”
IN ADDITION to the Primal Rock Rebellion pair, there are backing vocals on three of the tracks (delivered by Tarin Kerry, discovered by Mikee while he was acting as producer for a band she was in), viola on the bulk of the songs (provided by Abi Fry of Bat For Lashes), plus original SikTh member Dan ‘Loord’ Foord on drums.
‘Awoken Broken’ was produced by Adrian and Mikee, and mixed by Simon Hanhart, whose previous credits include everyone from Tin Machine to Saxon. The album features 12 tracks top to tail, and it will be available on digi-pak CD, digital download and double coloured vinyl in gatefold sleeve.
The track-listing runs as follows:
1. No Friendly Neighbour 4.53
2. No Place Like Home 3.06
3. I See Lights 4.59
4. Bright As A Fire 6.21
5. Savage World 3.38
6. Tortured Tone 5.08
7. White Sheet Robes 5.16
8. As Tears Come Falling From The Sky 0.47
9. Awoken Broken 4.58
10. Search For Bliss 4.13
11. Snake Ladders 4.43
12. Mirror and the Moon 5.04
Those who like their music with power, passion and the occasional twist ‘n’ turn will certainly be in for a double-headed treat! You can hear and download for free the album track ‘I See Lights’ below…
Check out Primal Rock Rebellion’s video “No Place Like Home” below!
1 Video – BATTLE BEAST – Enter The Metal World
When I hear the name Battle Beast, my mind ventures to 80’s cartoons like He-Man and The Transformers. I would never think of this as the name of a heavy metal band. Nonetheless, Battle Beast is a female fronted heavy metal band from Finland that will appeal to fans of classic metal.
The band released their debut album Steel via Nuclear Blast Records. Check out their clip “Enter The Metal World” and let us know what you think about them!
4 RIOT – Immortal Soul (2011)
Riot is easily one of the most under rated metal bands in the world. In 2011, the band has reunited with their classic Thundersteel and The Privelege of Power lineup to release their fifteenth slab of blood-pumping, fist-throwing metal, Immortal Soul. While I have enjoyed the Riot releases with singer Mike Dimeo, I have always regarded Thundersteel as one of Riot’s best albums. I am glad that Tony Moore has returned to sing for Riot once more.
If Tony Moore has lost any range in his voice, it isn’t evident on Immortal Soul. On the opening song “Still Your Man” he quickly establishes that he is still very much the powerhouse vocalist from Riot’s Thundersteel days! This song easily could have been on that album. It is an impressive beginning to an excellent metal album.
If “Still Your Man” doesn’t trip your trigger, “Wings Are For Angels” definitely will. This powerful tune is easily one of the best on Immortal Soul. Moore’s voice soars to new heights, and Reale and Flyntz tear it up on guitar.
“Sins of the Father” is the type of song that makes me want to jump in the car, and drop the pedal to floor. This song is blazing fast, and will definitely get your heart racing. Bobby Jarzombek sounds like he is having a lot of fun playing the drums in this song.
“Fall Before Me” is one of the slower tunes on the album. This song has more of a modern feel, with more toned down riffs. It wouldn’t sound out of place with the stuff they are playing on rock radio today.
Mark Reale’s guitar work on this album is beyond incredible. He rips out those blazing fast metal riffs like a man possessed. Any fan of metal guitar playing will love what Reale is doing on Immortal Soul.
Sadly, Immortal Soul is the swan song for guitar Mark Reale who passed away from complications with Crohn’s disease on Wednesday (1/25/12). Mark has been the one constant member throughout all of Riot’s lineup changes over the years. Mark’s contributions to heavy metal music will be greatly missed. Mark’s Immortal Soul has now been carried on to Heavy Metal Heaven. He left us will some killer tunes to enjoy as his parting goodbye. I am sad that I will never get to see Mark perform these songs live, but I am very glad that I picked this CD up.
If you are a metal fan, you should check out Immortal Soul, you won’t be disappointed. You can purchase a copy of the CD at this link.
Rating: Out of 10
Track Listing:
01. Still Your Man
02. Riot
03. Crawling
04. Wings Are For Angels
05. Sins of the Father
06. Fall Before Me
07. Majestica
08. Immortal Soul
09. Insanity
10. Whiskey Man
11. Believe
12. Echoes
Riot is:
Tony Moore – Vocals
Mark Reale – Guitar
Mike Flyntz – Guitar
Don Van Stavern – Bass
Bobby Jarzombek – Drums
1 New Video – Anthrax – The Devil You Know!
How about a new Anthrax video on this thrash metal Thursday?! Check out the new Anthrax clip, “The Devil You Know” below!
0 Pharoah’s Self Titled Debut Now Available!
Remember New Jersey rockers Pharoah?
Pharoah was best known for their outrageous stage antics, big-hair & makeup and beat-conscious glam rock ‘n’ roll. Armed with their self-indoctrinated credo “Sex, Glam, Gloom” the band would dominate the metropolitan area’s music scene in the mid to late 80’s.
Veterans of the stage, Pharoah would open for multiple national acts and played such venues like “The Cat Club”, “Club Nirvana”, “CBGB’s”, “The Limelight”, “Studio One” and “The Dirt Club” to name a few. With rave reviews in “East Coast Rocker’s” center-fold (August 27th, 1986) and a full-page feature in “Rock Magazine” (November, 1988), rock ‘n’ roll’s best kept secret would gain national notoriety. The band also would showcase a video on MTV’s “Headbanger’s Ball” and appeared on over a dozen cable television shows. This album is silver pressed so grab your copy of this pure 80’s treasure today! “Sex, Glam, Gloom” is back!
http://demondollrecords.com/pharoah
Check out their clip “Red Flag” below!
3 Vie’s Verses – Shutting Down File Sharing Will Only Hurt The Honest
Let me make one thing absolutely crystal clear before going any further into this edition of Vie’s Verses. I do not, have not, and will never condone illegal downloading. Artists who spend their time and money recording an album expect to get paid for their hard work, and rightfully so. And while there are several arguments “fans” make about how it is the record company making money, not the artist, that’s complete hogwash and an argument for another day. Record companies expect a return on their investment and if an artist doesn’t sell well, don’t expect to see a follow up record. If everyone stole Pop Evil’s debut, there would be no War of Angels.
While I am completely opposed to illegal downloading, there is a gray area…concert bootlegs. Some bands (mostly jam bands) don’t mind their live recordings being distributed to the fans as long as the distributer is not making any money off them. Other bands are not crazy about the idea (Kiss comes to mind) but understand that the fans want all they can get their hands on. They don’t hold the fans accountable, they hold the bootleggers accountable. That leads to a very interesting point regarding file sharing websites and bootlegged concerts.
I will be the first to admit that I own a lot of bootleg concerts. I try to obtain the “live” version of any concert I’ve attended. However, if there is an official live release, I will buy the official release to ensure the artist makes money. If there is no official release, I will seek out the bootlegged version of the show for my personal collection. In the past few years, this has been relatively easy to do. Some internet searching will yield high results, thanks mostly in part to file sharing websites like Megaupload and Rapidshare. Prior to the ease of internet searching, I would buy these recordings off EBay or at record shows, and pay a hefty sum for them—usually $25 – $50.
When file sharing became more mainstream, the bootleggers selling at record shows and on EBay for exurbanite amounts of money became less and less. This was a good thing, at least for the fans. We could obtain a live concert recording at no cost. If the artist was cool with it, there were no worries at all. If the artist was not happy, but understandable, that was cool too. If the artist was completely against it, I usually didn’t seek out the show.
Last week, the US Government shut down leading file sharing site, Megaupload. There are several illegal charges being brought against the company including fraud, copyright infringement, and money laundering. I don’t think the government is going to stop there. I have a strong suspicion that they will move onto the next file sharing service like Rapidshare, Uploading, and others. They are going after them all. And while I think it’s a great way to stop illegal downloading of official releases, I also think there is going to be an unintended ripple effect—the return of the bootlegger. Once live concert recordings are no longer easily accessible, the bootleggers will be back with a vengeance, painting their ads all over EBay and Craigslist. And this time, the price will be $50 – $80 for that rare live show you’ve always wanted (inflation sucks, doesn’t it?).
And don’t think that the sharing sites are the only targets. YouTube will be on their list as well. There are millions of illegal videos ranging from official music videos to live concert recordings that could lead to a copyright infringement suit and shut down. After that, who knows what’s next? Hell, Hard Rock Hideout could be shut down if a video is posted without proper clearance from the record company. Anything is possible.
Personally, I don’t think that shutting down file sharing sites is the right answer. Yes, it’s a step in the right direction, but other sites will pop up to take their place. I don’t have the answer on how to stop illegal downloading. All I can do is spread the word that I haven’t done it, don’t do it, and will not do it, except for that gray area—which could make me a hypocrite to some degree.
One thing is for certain, the ripple effect has already started to take place. A largely well known site that featured Springsteen concert bootlegs (for free) from every year of his entire career was recently terminated for violation of copyright laws. Oddly enough, the site that sells the bootlegs has not been shut down. I don’t understand how that is possible. And I’m sure that other sites will follow. There’s a very well known hard rock concert sharing site that is probably under close watch. It wouldn’t surprise me if that gets downed next. Especially considering that a lot of the links from that site go directly to Megaupload.
While I applaud the fact that illegal downloading of albums has met a roadblock, I am disappointed that the bootleggers will be back in action soon. It could mean the end of my owning concerts I’ve attended, and that’s sad, but there is no way I will pay $50 for a concert recording. I didn’t even like paying $25 in the past. The government may think they have a victory on their hands, but waiting in the wings is the bootleggers, and once the dust settles, they will rise up hoisting their victory signs. That is the scariest notion of all.
Follow RyoVie on Twitter at Twitter.com/RyoVie
1 Cats in Boots “Kicked and Klawed” Gets Reissued By Demon Doll Records
Front man extrodainare Joel Ellis and Demon Doll Records have teamed up once again to bring you one of the best Hair Metal releases of the 80’s! The 2012 reissue of Cats In Boots epic CD ‘Kicked & Klawed’ is now available! Silver pressed & digitally remasterd, this album is flat out slammin’!!
The 2012 version includes the very hard to find bonus track “Tokyo Screamin” and our (and Joel’s) number one goal was to bring this record to you at an affordable price, and we have done just that!
Get all 12 mind shattering and electrifing classics including the MTV Headbangers Ball hits “Shot Gun Sally” & “Her Monkey” for the outstanding price of $11.99! This is pure Hair Metal candy for the ears!
Grab your copy today! Shipping worldwide! MADE LOUD TO PLAY LOUD!
CATS IN BOOTS – KICKED & KLAWED + BONUS TRACK (2012 REISSUE)
A limited amount of Joel Ellis autographed copies of the CD are also available!
CATS IN BOOTS – KICKED & KLAWED LIMITED AUTOGRAPHED BY JOEL ELLIS
4 Rest in Peace – Mark Reale – (June 7, 1955 – January 25, 2012)
On Wednesday, January 25th, RIOT guitarist and founder Mark Reale passed away due to complications from Crohn’s disease in a San Antonio hospital. He was 57 years old.
Reale had been in a coma since January 11th due to a subarachnoid hemorrhage. He had battled Crohn’s for most of his life, working and performing while enduring almost constant pain and the side effects of treatment for his illness. He was in Texas bravely attempting to practice for the band’s scheduled shows, but was felled by a severe onset of Crohn’s symptoms, which eventually put him in the Intensive Care Unit.
Reale’s Riot bandmates have issued the following statement:
“To friends and fans of Mark Reale and Riot, we are deeply saddened to confirm that Mark has lost his battle with a lifelong illness. Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated by Mark’s family, friends, and bandmates at this difficult time.”
Hard Rock Hideout would like to offer our condolences to Mark Reale’s family and friends. Mark was a tremendous musician who will be missed greatly.
2 Deep Purple to Release New Studio Album in 2013
Deep Purple are very excited by the prospect of making a new and significant album. To that end, they have decided to extend their writing and recording period through the summer of 2012.
Commented Deep Purple singer Ian Gillan: “We know we will disappoint some of our fans this summer. However, we look forward very much to our autumn/winter tour and continuing our worldwide tour with our new album in 2013.”
Durung a 2011 interview with U.K.’s Express & Star, Gillan was asked when fans might be able to expect Deep Purple’s follow-up to 2005’s “Rapture Of The Deep” album.”The fact is that we’ve been touring flat out,” said Gillan. “We did 48 countries last year. We’re getting so much off on that we just don’t feel the drive at the moment for writing.”
Gillan did reveal, though, that Deep Purple convened for a mini writing session earlier in the year.
“We were in Spain for a little while and we had a week off,” he said. “We spent most of the time in the bar, to be honest with you. It was a good session, but nothing absolutely dynamic came out of it.
“I think to get some progress as far as an album’s concerned you’ve got to have a target, you’ve got to work to a date, and that gives you pressure. If you’ve got the pressure, you get stuff done. We don’t have a plan, to be honest.
“Things have always been chaos, certainly since I joined, and we’ve never been able to plan anything. If we’d been able to make plans, we’d probably have retired by now!”
“People like to do stuff that they’re good at, that they enjoy, that they get something out of. So while it’s fun and we’re all getting older and bits are dropping off here and there, it’s still great. I think there probably will be another album.
“And because we’re not doing an album (right now) doesn’t mean I don’t write every day. It’s a day off today and for me it’s a full day at the office. This morning is interviews and this afternoon I’ve got two or three interesting pieces I’m working on at the moment. I write every day and so when I do come round to making an album there’s never a shortage of what I call color material.”
Deep Purple’s 18th studio album, “Rapture of the Deep”, was released in November 2005. It was the fourth studio CD from Deep Purple since guitarist Steve Morse joined the band in 1994. It was also the second album to feature veteran keyboardist Don Airey.
“Rapture of the Deep” was produced by Mike Bradford, who also worked on the band’s previous release, 2003’s “Bananas”.
2 New Video – Iced Earth – Anthem
Iced Earth has released a new video “Anthem”. “Anthem” is on Iced Earth’s latest album, Dystopia which was released October 18th, 2011. This video features Iced Earth’s new singer Stu Block. Check out the clip below!
0 Mollo Martin – The Third Cage (2012)
I have been a fan of Tony Martin since he first joined Black Sabbath back in 1987, and I have picked up several of his lesser known releases (Empire, Phenomena) along the way. Somehow, I have missed the CD’s he has put out with Dario Mollo.
Judging from the sounds on the latest Mollo Martin CD, The Third Cage, I need to rectify that situation soon.
Tony Martin is by far the least heralded of Black Sabbath’s singers. That is a shame as he delivered some great vocals for Black Sabbath, and continues to do so for Mollo / Martin.
The Third Cage comes out of the gate firing with the hard rocker, “Wicked World”. “Wicked World” pushes Tony Martin to his vocal peak, and Dario Mollo delivers some heavy licks that leave me wanting to hear more!
“Cirque Du Freak” has this odd keyboard/synthesizer that gives the beginning of the song, an industrial feel. Luckily this doesn’t plague the song, as Martin delivers what could be his best vocal on this album.
“Oh My Soul” is a song that seems tailor made for rock radio. On this slow brooding tune, Tony Martin practically sounds like Ronnie James Dio (R.I.P.) on this song, and that is pretty good company to be in, in my opinion. “Oh My Soul” is definitely one of the highlights on The Third Cage.
“One of the Few” falls into the AOR/Melodic Rock territory. Meldodic rock fans are going to eat this tune up. This catchy tune has it all…. great guitar work from Dario Mallo, and another outstanding vocal from Tony Martin.
“Still In Love With You” is another heavy rocker in the vein of Dio era Black Sabbath. This song is heavy, dark, and powerful. Mollo’s guitar riffs in this song are crazy good!
I have mixed feelings about the song “Can’t Stay Here”. The vocals are great, the guitar work is solid, but this song needed a little bit of something to take it over the top. It isn’t filler, but it could be much better.
“Wardance” is a bit of a grower. This metal anthem takes a couple of spins to fully appreciate. I can see this song being done in a live setting with thousands of fans screaming War…..Dance!
“Don’t Know What It is About You” is a melodic rock song that has parts that remind me of a heavy Enuff Z’nuff song. The background vocals on this song are kind of weak, and that brings the song down in my opinion.
“Blind Fury” is another Metal Anthem that is catchy as hell. This is another highlight on The Third Cage.
Tony Martin’s voice on “Violet Moon” reminds me a lot Oni Logan, and as a result, this song kind of sounds like a Lynch Mob tune. This is a cool song to close out The Third Cage with.
Overall I enjoyed this CD quite a bit. This is another strong effort from Dario Mollo and Tony Martin. If you are a Dio, Black Sabbath, or Tony Martin fan, you gotta check out The Third Cage. I think you are going to love it. I recommended it!
You can purchase a copy of The Third Cage at this link. Check it out!
Rating: 
Out of 10
Track Listing:
01. Wicked World
02. Cirque Du Freak
03. Oh My Soul
04. One Of The Few
05. Still In Love With You
06. Can’t Stay Here
07. Wardance
08. Don’t Know What It Is About You
09. Blind Fury
10. Violet Moon
Mollo / Martin is:
Dario Mollo- Guitars, Bass, Keyboards
Tony Martin– Vocals
Roberto Gualdi – Drums
Fulvio Gaslini – Bass
Dario Patti / Brian War – Keyboards
0 Running Wild Returns With New Album “Shadowmaker”!
Reunited German metal legends RUNNING WILD will release their brand new album “Shadowmaker” in Germany on April 20th, in Europe on April 23rd and in the US/Canada on April 24th 2012 on SPV / Steamhammer.
The album will be released as a limited first edition in a black jewel case with silver printing and slipcase plus a 40 min bonus DVD with a making of and a track by track commentary by Rock N´Rolf. The double gatefold LP will come with printed inner sleeves and clear vinyl. There also will be a box set limited to 1.000 copies worldwide. It contains 2 LPs, the black jewel case with the DVD, a poster, a sticker, a postcard and a 30 page book in LP size about the history of the band.
The cover of “Shadowmaker” is the most unusual in the history of the band, but when you listen to the title track and read the lyrics, you will understand the meaning of it. It was created by Rock N´Rolf and Jens Reinhold (Evergrey, Freedom Call, Virgin Steele etc…), who also will do the complete artwork for all configurations.
Stay tuned for more info about the recordings and other news within the next few weeks.
Tracklisting black jewel Case + DVD
CD
1.Piece Of The Action 4:25
2.Riding On The Tide 4:18
3.I Am Who I Am 4:51
4.Black Shadow 5:13
5.Locomotive 4:35
6.Me & The Boys 5:00
7.Shadowmaker 4:25
8.Sailing Fire 4:14
9.Into The Black 4:57
10.Dracula 7:29
DVD
=> Making of “Shadowmaker”
=> Track by track commentary by Rock N´Rolf
Length approx. 40 min
Tracklisting LP
LP 1
Side 1
1.Piece Of The Action 4:25
2.Riding On The Tide 4:18
3.I am Who I am 4:51
Side 2
1.Black Shadow 5:13
2.Locomotive 4:35
3.Me & The Boys 5:00
LP 2
Side 1
1.Shadowmaker 4:25
2.Sailing Fire 4:14
3.Into The Black 4:57
Side 2
1.Dracula 7:29
Boxset:
– 2 LPs, clear vinyl
– Black jewel case incl. DVD
– Poster
– Postcard
– Sticker
– 30 page book in LP size about the history of the band plus photos
– 35 x 35 cm
– hard cardboard material with top
Rock N´Rolf did a video message to the fans last year about his thoughts about the new album, the past and the future:
2 Cheap Trick – One On One (1982)
As much as we love new music at Hard Rock Hideout, sometimes we have to take a few minutes to remember the classics.
2012 marks the 30th anniversary (Released April 30th, 1982) of Cheap Trick’s sixth (and possibly most underrated) album, One On One.
One on One is a very easy album to listen to from beginning to end. Even with eleven songs, it clocks in under thirty five minutes. This album features an eclectic mix of pop rockers, and a song or two that you wouldn’t expect from Cheap Trick. Cheap Trick has some mild success with the song “She’s Tight”. This was a top 20 rock hit for Cheap Trick, and still sounds great today.
Why the song “I Want You” doesn’t get airplay today mystifies me. It is a short rocker that seems tailor-made for the radio.
“If You Want My Love” is one of my favorites on One On One. This song is dripping with the influence of The Beatles, but that is what makes it so cool.
“Oo La La La” might have some silly lyrics, but this song is also ridiculously catchy.
I am not sure how to classify the song, “Saturday at Midnight”. Is it disco? Is it rock? You can definitely tell this one is from the eighties with its keyboard effects, but I like it anyway.
Could “I Want Be Man” have influenced a young Trent Reznor? This song almost sounds like early Industrial rock, before their was a genre. I know many Cheap Trick fans hate this song, but I think it is cool for what it is.
The album “Four Letter Word” sounds as if it could have been on a Billy Squier album. It is a semi heavier number, and a really good tune.
One On One is first album to feature Jon Brant on bass. A position he filled for several years before Tom Petersen’s return. I don’t know if Brant added a heavier influence to the songs, but he was a good addition to Cheap Trick even if it was temporary at best.
One On One might be thirty years old this year, but it still sounds better than a lot of the crap that is on the FM dial. Do yourself a favor and check this CD out!
Rating: 
Out of 10
Track Listing:
- I Want You
- One on One
- If You Want My Love
- Oo La La La
- Lookin’ Out For Number One
- She’s Tight
- Time is Runnin’
- Saturday at Midnight
- Love’s Got a Hold on Me
- I Want Be Man
- Four Letter Word
Cheap Trick is:
Robin Zander – lead vocals, rhythm guitar, keyboards
Rick Nielsen – lead guitar, backing vocals
Jon Brant – bass, backing vocals
Bun E. Carlos – drums, percussion
0 Godsmack and Staind Announce Mass Chaos Co-Headline Tour Beginning April 13th in Augusta, GA
Fellow New England platinum rock bands, Staind and Godsmack have announced they’ll be doing a co-headline tour, which their fans voted to name, THE MASS CHAOS TOUR. It will kick off April 13thin Augusta, Georgia at James Brown Arena. Opening the show will be hard rock quartet, Halestorm.
“Going on tour with Godsmack was a no-brainer,” says Staind singer/guitarist / songwriter Aaron Lewis. “Our fans are in for one hell of a rock show.” Godsmack frontman and songwriter Sully Erna says, “We’re very excited to get back out with our Massachusetts brothers again. It’s been a pinch too long, and all hell is about to break loose!” Lzzy Hale of Halestorm said, “I am stoked to be supporting Godsmack and Staind on this tour! To be touring with the two bands of my generation that paved the way for modern rock is an honor! This line up will crush your skulls!”
The bands are giving fans the chance to design a tour poster for The Mass Chaos Tour via Creative Allies. The winning designer will receive $500 and a prize pack. For contest details and entry, go to http://bit.ly/xzpcAx
Exclusive pre-sale tickets for Staind’s Dysfunctional fan club members, www.dysfunctionalstaind.com starts on January 25th – 2 days before they go on sale to the public on January 27th.
Staind’s latest release, the self-titled STAIND is a return to the band’s heaviest roots, and their most powerful and intense collection of songs to date. Revolver magazine called the album “a shocking crushing tour de force,” and Loudwire declared, “the band has returned to the grittier, bottom-heavy, down-tuned sound that defined its commercial breakthroughs, 1999’s Dysfunction and 2001’s Break the Cycle.”
STAIND – the band’s 7th studio album, debuted #5 on the Billboard Top 200. The debut single “Not Again” was the fastest rising single of the band’s career, hitting #1 on the active rock chart and staying there for 8 consecutive weeks. The new single, “Eyes Wide Open” debuted top 30 — while still having a track in the top 5. In the span of their career, Staind has sold worldwide over 15 million albums, had 9 top 10 singles across multiple radio formats — with four of those songs hitting #1, including the most played rock song of the decade, “It’s Been A While.”
Godsmack is considered one of the definitive alternative hard rock bands in contemporary music. The band’s 13 year legacy — guided by fearless founder and frontman Sully Erna — includes over 15 million albums sold — highlighted by scores of sold-out international concerts, countless successful tours, a remarkable 18 hit singles, 4 platinum records, 1 gold EP and four Grammy nominations.
Godmack’s THE ORACLE, the bands last album, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 chart marking the 3rd consecutive album in a row by the band to debut at #1. Certified gold in the US, the album generated such hits as “Cryin’ Like A Bitch” and “Love-Hate-Sex-Pain.” The band is currently working on a new release slated for mid 2012.
Acclaimed as one of hard rock’s most explosive acts, Halestorm made a Top 5 debut on SoundScan’s “Hard Music” chart upon its 2009 release, simultaneously bursting into the top 40 on the comprehensive Billboard 200. The band’s follow-up album is set for release this spring. Formed by frontwoman Lzzy Hale and her brother, drummer Arejay Hale, Halestorm has made its bones as a major league hard rock outfit via countless North American gigs alongside such like-minded artists as Shinedown, Avenged Sevenfold, Disturbed and Stone Sour.
GODSMACK / STAIND w/ HALESTORM TOUR DATES:
April 13 Augusta, GA @ James Brown Arena
April 15 Estero, FL @ Germain Arena
April 17 New Orleans, LA @ UNO Lakefront Arena
April 18 Lafayette, LA @ Cajundome
April 19 BOSSIER CITY, LA CenturyLink Center 99 X Fest
April 21 Lubbock, TX @ Lone Star Amphitheater
April 22 Belton, TX @ Bell County Expo Center
April 24 Beaumont, TX @ Ford Pavilion
April 25 Laredo, TX @ Laredo Energy Center
April 27 Phoenix, AZ @ Quail Run Park 98 KUPD UFEST
May 1 Corpus Christi, TX @ Concrete Street Amphitheater
May 2 San Antonio, TX @ Illusions Theater
May 4 Lexington, KY @ Rupp Arena
May 6 Evansville, IN @ Ford Center
May 9 Battle Creek, MI @ Kellogg Arena
May 11 Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena
May 12 Huntington, WV @ The Big Sandy Superstore Arena
May 15 Syracuse, NY @ Oncenter
May 16 Manchester, NH @ Verizon Wireless Arena
May 18 Bangor, ME
www.staind.com www.godsmack.com
0 Video – Will Wallner & Vivian Vain – Streets of Rage
The wait is almost over! Will Wallner & Vivian Vain’s debut CD will be released on February 1st! Judging from the first song, “Streets of Rage”, this CD will be packed with some killer tunes that all hard rock & metal fans will need for their collections! Of course it doesn’t hurt when the studio musicians that helped create this CD were Carmine Appice, Tony Franklin (Two Thirds of Blue Murder!!), Rudy Sarzo, Derek Sherinian, Jimmy Bain and many more. Check out the “Streets of Rage” video below, and visit the Wallner Vain website for more info on this CD!
0 Leatherwolf Schedules Headline Show January 28th; Live DVD To Be Filmed!
Southern California’s vaunted heavy metal Triple Axe Attack, LEATHERWOLF, have scheduled a headline show at the Ramona Mainstage, 626 Main Street, Ramona, CA http://www.ramonamainstage.com/ on Saturday, January 28 where the band will be filming for an upcoming live DVD.
Featuring original members Michael Olivieri (vocals, guitar), Carey Howe (guitar), and Dean Roberts (drums) along with bassist Patrick Guyton and new guitarist Rob Math, LEATHERWOLF are celebrating both their 30th band anniversary as well as the 25th anniversary of their highly acclaimed major label debut album for Island Records which spawned the MTV single ‘The Calling.’
“We had originally planned to release the ‘Live at the Galaxy’ DVD but with Rob in the fold we’ve decided to re-shoot everything. Rob is a killer player who has brought a lot of new energy to the band and we wanted to capture the new and improved LEATHERWOLF for prosperity”, states drummer Dean Roberts. “We’ve already talked to Roy Z (HALFORD, BRUCE DICKINSON) about mixing and should have everything completed in another couple of months in time for a tentative summer release.”
LEATHERWOLF first emerged in the early 80’s as part of the burgeoning Orange County metal scene, playing shows with contemporaries such as METALLICA, SLAYER and STRYPER before signing with local indie label, Tropical/Enigma, for the release of their Randy Burns (MEGADETH, KREATOR) produced eponymous debut in 1984. The band soon caught the attention of Island Records resulting in two further, highly acclaimed releases, ‘Leatherwolf’ (1987) and ‘Street Ready’ (1989). After a lenghty hiatus, LEATHERWOLF re-grouped for a number of shows and issued the ‘Wide Open’ live album in 1999. A new studio album, ‘World Asylum’, followed in 2006, re-issued in 2008 as ‘New World Asylum’ with returning frontman Michael Oliveri re-cutting all lead vocals.
Leatherwolf online:
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Leatherwolf/139268482759209
YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/LeatherwolfMusic
MySpace:
http://www.myspace.com/leatherwolfmusic
0 OSI: Brand New Album Announced! Track Listing and Album Artwork Revealed
“Fire Make Thunder” Audio Medley Now Available!
Fire Make Thunder marks the fourth undertaking for the collaborative duo known as OSI. Formed in 2002 by Jim Matheos (Fates Warning, Arch/Matheos) and Kevin Moore (Chroma Key, former Dream Theater keyboardist), OSI is a long distance partnership, both musicians typically writing and recording alone and sending song ideas back and forth for further elaboration. Written and recorded throughout most of 2011, this latest release once again reflects the eclectic influences of both Matheos and Moore.
Fire Make Thunder is slated for a March 27th release via Metal Blade Records. Today OSI unveils the artwork and the tracklisting for their fourth release.
Tracklisting:
1) Cold Call
2) Guards
3) Indian Curse
4) Enemy Prayer
5) Wind Won’t Howl
6) Big Chief II
7) For Nothing
8) Invisible Men
Additionally OSI has released an exclusive audio medley from Fire Make Thunder, which features audio samples from the upcoming release. The medley as well as pre-order opportunities can be accessed HERE.
Returning as the band’s session drummer is Gavin Harrison of Porcupine Tree, this time co-writing one of the tracks with the band. All other instruments and programming were performed by both Matheos and Moore, while vocals and lyrics were handled exclusively by Moore.
All of the recording for Fire Make Thunder, with the exception of drums, was done by Moore and Matheos at each musician’s respective home studio with drums being recorded at Harrison’s home in London. Final overdubs as well as some additional writing/arranging was completed in July 2011 in Jamaica, Iowa, where the band mixed alongside engineer Matt Sepanic at Sound Farm Studio and Recording Environment. Mastering was handled by renowned engineer Roger Siebel. The record was produced by both Moore and Matheos.
For More Information Please Visit:
http://www.osiband.com (Official Site)
http://www.metalblade.com/osi (Pre-Order Page)
http://twitter.com/osi_band (Twitter)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/OSI/203893353038854 (Facebook)
http://youtube.com/osivideos (YouTube)
http://plus.google.com/101327182573580737209 (Google Plus)
http://myspace.com/osiband (MySpace)
3 OVERKILL RELEASES NEW ALBUM DETAILS
Legendary thrash band, OVERKILL have announced their next full length entitled “The Electric Age” due out on eOne Music March 27, 2012. The record will be released in Europe on Nuclear Blast Records on March 30, 2012. The band will tour the US this spring on their very own KILLFEST 2this spring in support.
“The Electric Age” was recorded and mixed at Gain Studios in New Jersey, owned and operated by bassist D.D. Verni. This is the bands followup record to “Ironbound” released in 2010 which recieved much critical praise. Decibel Magazine went as far to add, “Call this thrash, or whatever: to us, it’s just metal. And damn good metal, at that.”
OVERKILL is Bobby “Blitz” Ellsworth (vocals), D.D. Verni (Bass, Backing vocals), Derek “The Skull” Tailer (Rhythm guitar, Backing vocals), Dave Linsk (Lead guitar, Backing vocals) and Ron Lipnicki (Drums).
0 New Video – Bang Tango – I Like It
Bang Tango has released a new video “‘I Like It”. This song is off their new album, Pistol Whipped In The Bible Belt. You can purchase their new CD at this link. Check it out!
2 Roxx Gang – Boxx Of Roxx (2011)
The semi-famous, yet quite memorable, hair metal talent, Roxx Gang, have recently released a swan song box set titled, Boxx Of Roxx. This gem contains all the goods that a hair metal fan could want. The set contains a disc of previously unreleased rarities, a disc of live music, and a DVD of videos. Many may question whether a group that had such a short lived time with their original lineup (1989 – 1991) should be worthy of releasing a box set. What they would fail to realize is that Roxx Gang continued on, releasing several solid albums in the mid and late 90s after hair metal was left for dead.
While purists who love the band will be the first to scream that Roxx Gang is not hair metal (more of a hybrid of punk and blues), the music speaks for itself…this is hair metal. There are some bands that were never comfortable with the hair metal moniker (Def Leppard, Dokken, Bon Jovi) and Roxx Gang is one of those bands. However, it should not be deemed an insult to be labeled a “hair metal” band. In fact, it should be an honor. Listening to the rarities disc on Boxx Of Roxx makes it obvious that this is hair metal music and it is pretty darned good.
The disc of outtakes harkens back to the bands early days with unreleased radio edits of beloved songs such as “Scratch My Back,” and “No Easy Way Out.” These songs show up again on the live disc and videos DVD. Seeing as how they are the most cherished songs in the Roxx Gang repertoire, it makes sense that they would be contained on all three discs.
The real gems on Boxx Of Roxx are the recordings with original guitarist Eric Carroll who died mysteriously in the late 80s before the band gained their true notoriety. Boxx Of Roxx takes the listener on a time-traveling journey, spanning the entire career of Roxx Gang, but the three Eric Carroll tracks stand out as the ones with the most potential. They are, after all, the songs that got the record companies attention in the late 80s and rightfully so.
The live disc was recorded in Texas in 1989 featuring the bands most famous and beloved lineup. Ripping through their hit songs and early material, this live album gives us a taste of what a Roxx Gang show was like back in their heyday. Those fortunate enough to have seen the band live, witnessed a real treat, as Roxx Gang built their reputation on their live performances. It would have been nicer if the band was able to release this concert as a DVD for the set, but fans should be ecstatic with the existing audio to enjoy.
Overall, if you’re a hair metal fan, a lover of Roxx Gang, or someone that enjoys re-discovering some of the forgotten acts of the 80s, Boxx Of Roxx is worth the investment.
Rating: 
Out of 10
Track Listing:
DISC ONE – ROUGH DIAMONDS
Scratch My Back
No Easy Way Out
Danger
Kill Or Be Killed
Ballbreaker
Hot Shot Of Love
Into The Black
Steals My Heart Away
Time To Rock
Seven Deadly Sins
Rockin’ Horse
Who’s Your Daddy?
Santa Clause Is Back In Town
DISC TWO – RARE LIVE BOOTLEG
Race With The Devil
Daddy’s Farm
Fastest Gun In Town
Nine Lives
Ball ‘n’ Chain
Red Rose
Live Fast Die Young
Hot ‘Lanta
Scratch My Back
No Easy Way Out
Need Your Sex
DVD – THE VIDEOS
No Easy Way Out
Scratch My Back
Time Bomb
Hot For Love
Tiger Lily
Star Trip
Red Rose
ROXX GANG IS/WAS:
Kevin Steele – Vocals
Jeff Vitolo – Lead Guitar
Vinnie Granese – Bass
Tommy Weder – Drums
Eric Carrol – Guitar
Jeff Taylor Blanchard – Guitar
Stacey Blades – Guitar
Wade Hayes – Guitar
Roby Strine – Bass
David James Blackshire – Drums
Dallas Perkins – Guitar
Andy James – Drums
Dorian Sage – Bass & Backing Vocals
