Posts By Brian Basher
1 STATIC-X Takes the Metal Down Under
Static-X will take the Metal Down Under on an Australian trek in support of chart topping album CULT OF STATIC.
Static-X announced TERMINAL as the third release off their critically acclaimed and most flammable work to date, CULT OF STATIC, on Reprise Records. This third release comes on the coattails of their first hit single STINGWRAY and second hit Z-28, while the album CULT OF STATIC charted Billboards Top 200 at the #16 position.
STATIC X – AUSTRALIA TOUR DATES:
Tue 10 Nov HiFi Brisbane 18+
Wed 11 Nov Metro Sydney All Ages
Thu 12 Nov HiFi Melbourne 18+
Fri 13 Nov Fowlers Adelaide All Ages
Sun 15 Nov Capitol Perth 18+
For More information go to www.myspace.com/staticx or www.static-x.com
2 House of Lords – Cartesian Dreams (2009)
Is the sequel ever as good as the original? For House of Lords the answer is a resounding YES! After a “What the Hell Were They Thinking” moment that was the release of 2000’s “the Power & the Myth” James Christian said enough is enough, and with the blessing of founder Gregg Giuffria, put together a new lineup consisting of Jimi Bell (Guitars), BJ Zampa (Drums), and Chris McCarvill (Bass) and a return to the melodic sound House of Lords were known for. With the release of two very solid albums “World Upside Down” and “Come To My Kingdom” House of Lords were back at the forefront of the Melodic Rock world, but the release of the lineup’s third album “Cartesian Dreams” puts the band way ahead of the competition. If I could only use one word to describe the sound of “Cartesian Dreams” it would be heavy, by far the heaviest HoL album to date but still retaining HoL’s trademark melody and sound. James Christian’s voice still sounds fantastic and the band as a whole are tight and in sync with one another.
“Cartesian Dreams” starts out with a bang with the title track, and immediately gives us a taste of what we are in for with this release. Heavy, thumping, with nice keyboard fills and some outstanding background vocals Bell has an excellent solo but it is BJ Zampa that outshines everyone on this track with his drumming. “Born To Be Your Baby” follows up with a great sing a long chorus that will get stuck in your head and not let go. One of the catchiest tracks on the album that has single written all over it. “Desert Rain” is next in line and much like “Cartesian Dreams” is a heavy thumping song about the Iraq War, with the whole band sounding fantastic. On the American version “Sweet September” is the closest song you could call a ballad on this album and it is a great one with some nice background vocals and James Christian sounds amazing on this song. “Bangin'” is a great dirty rocker, which would make a great lead off single, a classic HoL song. At first listen you think “A Simple Plan” is a slow mid tempo number, but once Bell’s guitar kicks in, that changes your thinking completely, while it does stay in the mid tempo range it is anything but slow. Once again the band sounds outstanding on this song especially Bell and McCarvill.
The rest of “Cartesian Dreams” is filled with more heavy melodic rockers like “Saved By Rock”, “Repo Man” and the outstanding “Joanna” another song with single written all over it. If you get the European version look out for the song “the Train” a slow mid tempo song with some great lyrics and background vocals. Fans of HoL and Melodic Rock in general are going to find “Cartesian Dreams” to not only be the best release of HoL’s new Lineup but one of the best of the band’s entire career. Definitely a must have album.
Rating: Out of 10
Track Listing:
01. Cartesian Dreams
02. Born To Be Your Baby
03. Desert Rain
04. Sweet September
05. Bangin’
06. A Simple Plan
07. Never Look Back
08. The Bigger They Come
09. Repo Man
10. Saved By Rock
11. Joanna
12. The Train (Bonus Track)
House of Lords are:
James Christian – vocals
Jimi Bell – guitars
BJ Zampa – drums
Chris McCarvill – bass
0 HRH “Livin’ Out Loud” with Johnny Lima
“Livin’ Out Loud” is the newest release from Johnny Lima and it is by far the best release in his 13 year career. I recently had the opportunity to talk to Johnny and he filled me on the new album, producing newcomers Dirty Penny, and getting the facts straight about working with Freakshow.
HRH: Johnny, First I would like to thank you for taking the time to talk to Hard Rock Hideout today.
Johnny Lima: And I want to thank you for all your support and the awesome review.
HRH: It’s been a little over 3 months since “Livin’ Out Loud” was released. What has been the reaction to it so far?
Johnny Lima: The reaction has been much better than I could had ever hoped for. I’ve only read a couple of bad reviews, but that’s expected. The majority of reviews have been outstanding to say the least. Most importantly to me, the feedback from the fans has been really positive. As long as the fans love it, than I’m happy!
HRH: What do you think is the biggest difference between “Livin’ Out Loud” and your past releases?
Johnny Lima: I think the biggest difference was that I felt no pressure when making this album. Mostly due to the fact that I wasn’t trying to meet any record company’s deadlines. I also think that I was more excited about making this album than any of the previous albums, and it shows.
HRH: Do you listen to your albums after they have been released or do you wait a while and then go back and listen to them?
Johnny Lima: Normally I don’t, but since I’m just about finished getting my band together, I’ve been listening to them more often. I need to decide which songs I want to play live and also, need to relearn them because I haven’t played a lot of these songs in years.
HRH: What would you say is your favorite track on the album right now?
Johnny Lima: It’s a toss up between Livin’ Out Loud, Caught In The Middle, and Hate To Say Goodbye.
HRH: I have to ask…Is the subject of “Caught in the Middle” a real life experience or just fiction?
Johnny Lima: (laughing) It’s both. I had a similar incident happen to me a long time ago, but the girl wasn’t married. It just so happened that her roommate was madly in love with her and didn’t like the idea that she invited someone over to bang her. He actually kicked down the door too. Scared the living shit out of me. Julia, if your out there, I hope you’re doing well. HAHAHAHA!!
HRH: Maybe it’s just me, but I can definitely hear some Bon Jovi and Def Leppard influences on “Livin’ Out Loud” What are some of the other bands that have an influence on your music?
Johnny Lima: I’ve been influence by a lot of music from the 70’s and 80’s. Bands like AC/DC, Aerosmith, Alice Cooper, Kiss, Poison, Ratt, Motley Crue, Twisted Sister, and the list goes on and on.
HRH: You’ve been playing guitar and writing since you were 12. What band had the biggest influence on you in the beginning?
Johnny Lima: KISS!
HRH: It was 4 years between the release of “Version 1.2” and “Livin’ Out Loud” You spent some of that time producing Dirty Penny and Freakshow, among others. How did you get involved with the Freakshow project?
Johnny Lima: Well, first let me say that I only recorded and mixed the album for Freakshow. I didn’t produce it. I got involved with Freakshow because of my work that I did with Miss Crazy. Markus and I work really well together in the studio, so it was only natural that they’d record the album with me.
HRH: What was it like working with musicians the caliber of Frankie Banali, Tony Franklin, Jeff Lebar, and Markus Allen Christopher?
Johnny Lima: It was an absolute pleasure. I’ve already worked with Markus before, so I knew what to expect. However, this was my first time meeting Frankie and Jeff as well as my first time working with them. So I didn’t know what to expect. I have to admit, I expected the rock star trip. Attitude and Ego. I got none of that. What I got was two outstanding human beings that still love to make music and do so with the BIGGEST amount of professionalism. Not to mention that when you have musicians with that caliber, it’s easy to record. So for me, it was as easy as just pressing a few buttons. I didn’t get a chance to work with Tony as he recorded his bass parts in his own studio in L.A.
HRH: Any chance we could see you working with any of the Freakshow guys in the future on your own material?
Johnny Lima: That would be very cool. Never say never!
HRH: What is the difference in working with a new band like Dirty Penny and a group of veterans like Freakshow?
Johnny Lima: The biggest difference is the experience level. With Dirty Penny, I really have to sit down with them and work with them on their songs and their individual parts. With Freakshow, I just pressed buttons and moved faders. However, my role was different with each band. With Dirty Penny, I was the producer, so I was responsible for how the album came out. So that’s why I had a hands on approach with them. With Freakshow, that responsibility wasn’t mine, even though I was a big part in how that album sounded, I wasn’t responsible for picking the songs or making sure the songs were good enough to be on an album. It’s two totally different experiences, but I enjoyed both of them equally. I love producing, and it’s something that I’ll continue doing. I think I have a knack for hearing something that works, and knowing when something doesn’t.
HRH: Dirty Penny is preparing to release their second album “Young & Reckless” were you involved in that project in any way?
Johnny Lima: Yes, I Produced, Engineered, and Mixed that album as well as co-wrote 4 of the songs.
HRH: I think it is safe to say you are much better known in Europe than here in the U.S. European fans always seem to be ahead of fans in the U.S. especially when it comes to hard rock bands/acts. What do you think is the big difference between fans in Europe and the U.S.?
Johnny Lima: Well, I don’t think Europeans are “ahead” of Americans when it comes to music. I just think that they appreciate music more and don’t give a shit what’s on MTV or what’s “cool”. From my experience from knowing people on both sides of the pond, I came to the conclusion that Americans use music as a way to have background noise when they’re doing something. Be it, driving, cleaning the house, doing the homework, etc. Europeans are more passionate about music. They live for music. It’s a part of their life. Not just background noise. That’s just my opinion. As far as my career is concerned, yes, Europe is a better market for me. Europe is where it all really started. I think America is coming around though. Gives us some time. Eventually we’ll get bored of the Xbox and want to get back into enjoying music again.
HRH: Were you offered any slots at any of the big festivals (i.e. Rocklahoma, Rock Gone Wild, etc) that took place this past summer?
Johnny Lima: No I haven’t. It wouldn’t have been able to work out anyway since I don’t have my band completed yet (just need a keyboardist).
HRH: Are you planning a full blown tour to support “Livin’ Out Loud” here in the U.S. or will it be more pick and choose?
Johnny Lima: If by full blown tour you mean me getting in a van and playing in every dive bar across the U.S., leaving my family behind to fend for themselves while I go play rock star for little or no money, and come back home broke as a bum, the answer is no. HAHAHA!! I’m getting a band together, and my intention is to play close to home for now. If opportunities arise in other areas I’m not opposed to playing there, but I can’t play for free. I have a mortgage just like everyone else. So if it makes financial sense, I’ll play anywhere in the world.
HRH: What about European tour plans? We have a lot of readers from Norway at HRH so any plans for some dates there?
Johnny Lima: I’d love to play in Europe again. And I’m sure eventually I will. However, it all comes down to money. Who’s going to foot the bill for the show? I’m not. So if people from Norway want me to play there, the best thing to do is start telling all their friends to go out and buy the album. You can get it at my website, and I ship all over the world. If I’ve got great sales figures for Norway, I can approach a promoter with those sales figures and the chances of the promoter booking me after seeing great sales figures are pretty good.
HRH: Your first major band was called Attitude. Can you tell me a little about that band?
Johnny Lima: Well, I wouldn’t say that the band was major. We never got out of the Bay Area. It was a fun time and a great experience. Unfortunately, we were a little too late for the party. Just when things started going well for us, Grunge happened, and our drummer got in a car accident. It just wasn’t our time.
HRH: Did the band ever release any albums?
Johnny Lima: No we had a 10 song demo that’s now floating around the internet. So if anyone finds it, you have my permission to download it as it’s something that I will never release.
HRH: You are online at Myspace and JohnnyLima.com are there any other ways fans can keep up to date with what you’re up to? Facebook, Twitter, etc?
Johnny Lima: Facebook, Reverbnation are the only two other sites that I’m active in.
HRH: Johnny once again thank you for taking the time to talk to us today. Is there anything you would like to say before we let you go?
Johnny Lima: I would just like to thank you and the fans for all the support. And for those of you who haven’t bought my album, you can do so at johnnylima.com. Rock on!
1 Shakra – Everest (2009)
“Everest” may be the best release of Swiss rockers Shakra’s career, but shortly after its release the band announced vocalist Mark Fox would be leaving the band due to conflicts with Shakra’s business partners. What a shame because Fox’s vocals on “Everest” are his best performance in the six years he has been with Shakra.
“Ashes To Ashes” gets “Everest” started off, this heavy melodic rocker has a great intro with a tight groove from the rhythm section of Dominik Pfister (bass) and Roger Tanner (drums). Lead guitarist Thom Blunier puts on a great solo as well, very hard not to do the ol’ head bang with this song. “Love & Pain” is up next heavier and slower than “Ashes To Ashes” but just as melodic the band as a whole sounds great on this song but Pfister & Tanner may well be on their way to becoming my favorite rhythm section. “Let Me Lie My Life To You” is one of my favorite tracks on the album, a great melodic rocker with some great sing along verses and choruses guitarists Blunier and Thomas Muster absolutely smoke this song. “the Illusion of Reality” is a slow, moody rocker that picks up at the chorus, I just can’t get over how tight the band sounds on this album. “Why?” is power ballad with a nice acoustic intro and some nice piano pieces throughout kind of sounds like a mix of Gotthard/Scorpions. “the Journey” starts out a slow, thumping rocker that kicks in before the first verse then slows down and speeds up throughout at 4 minutes this song would be awesome but at 8 minutes long I am ready to get to the next track. Blunier pulls of a nice solo but does it really need to be 3 minutes long? As soon as “Regressive Evolution” starts so does the foot tapping great song and Pfister’s bass sounds great as well. “Anybody Out There” is another song I would consider a favorite on “Everest” a mid tempo rocker that sounds like it would get over big in a live setting. “Right Between The Eyes” and “Dirty Money” are solid rockers that should go over well live. “Insanity” has stadium written all over it, another favorite of mine. Blunier once again pulls off a great solo. “Hopeless” is the album closer with some nice piano and strings included but I just never understand it when a band closes an album with a ballad.
The remaining members of Shakra are going to continue without Fox, in fact if you think you’re their man send a demo-song or just an e-mail to infos@shakra.ch . Whoever they decide on as the next singer are going to have some big shoes to fill, especially after Fox’s performance on “Everest” . Otherwise you can check out Shakra at https://www.myspace.com/shakrarock or www.shakra.ch.
Rating: Out of 10
Track Listing:
1. Ashes To Ashes
2. Love & Pain
3. Let Me Lie My Life To You
4. The Illusion Of Reality
5. Why
6. The Journey
7. Regressive Evolution
8. Anybody Out There
9. Right Between The Eyes
10. Dirty Money
11. Insanity
12. Hopeless
Shakra is:
Mark Fox – Vocals
Thom Blunier- guitar
Thomas Muster – guitar
Dominik Pfister – bass
Roger Tanner – drums
0 Free Download from the Wildhearts
With the release of their newest album “Chutzpah” a mere 16 days away, the Wildhearts are giving their fans an early present. You can download an exclusive non-album track The Snake, The Lion, The Monkey And The Spider by visiting www.thewildhearts.com. You can also get a sneak preview of “the Only One” the first single off of “Chutzpah” by visiting the band’s myspace. “Chutzpah”, which is the 9th studio album from the Wildhearts will be available August 31st via Backstage Alliance with a U.K. tour to follow.
1 Hard Rock Hideout’s Fresh Blood Featuring Razorbliss
What is it about Columbus, OH and the music scene there that keeps us coming back for more? Fresh Blood makes its third trip to Columbus in 2009, this time it is to unleash the five piece known as Razorbliss onto the masses.
Comprised of Randy Razor (vocals), Tommy “T-Bone” Caradonna (Bass/Programming), the twin guitar attack of Mark Nye & Drake Tulloh, and last but not least Matt Mees (Drums) Razorbliss is a modern hard rock band with just enough industrial thrown in to give you one of the most enjoyable ass kickings you will ever receive and leave you begging for more. Imagine if you can Alice Cooper with some Dope thrown in and you can get a picture of what I’m talking about.
Razorbliss recently released their second album “American Gomorrah”, which is the follow-up to their 2006 debut “Comedy of Errors” and one listen to pounding but catchy “The Mark That You Leave” is all it will take to make you a Razorbliss addict, but when you add such tracks as the driving rhythm of “Brand New Creature” or the haunting “Melt” you will find yourself becoming a full blown junkie.
Razorbliss will definitely appeal to fans of such acts as Dope, Marilyn Manson, and even Nine Inch Nails, but the melodic side of the band will appeal to hard rock fans as well. Keep your eyes and ears open because I think you will be hearing big things about Razorbliss in the very near future.
You can preview Razorbliss on myspace and you can purchase the band’s debut “Comedy of Errors on cdbaby
Check out the Razorbliss video clip, “Love Me” below.
3 Innocent Rosie – Bad Habit Romance (2009)
Innocent Rosie is one of the most talked about new bands coming out of Sweden today and with the release of their debut “Bad Habit Romance” it is easy to see why. This five piece from Gothenburg, Sweden is made up of Oscar Kaleva (Vocals), Dixxi (Guitars), Joel Eliasson (Rhythm Guitar), Olof Oljelund (Bass), and drummer Benjamin Borang and simply put “Bad Habit Romance” kicks ass. Loaded with some great modern sounding but sleazy, bluesy influenced songs, it’s not hard to say Innocent Rosie may have the best debut of the year on their hands.
“Bitter Cocktail” is a great track to start the album off, heavy but melodic with Kaleva’s whiskey and cigarette flavored voice and some nice bottom end playing from Oljelund, while Dixxi blows the solo way. “Knock Me Out” sound like something L.A. Guns should of had on “Cocked & Loaded” and I personally can never have to much hand claps. “Animal” has a great groove to it, with Borang playing his ass off behind the kit and Dixxi and Eliasson making a great tandem on guitars. “Let A Memory Die” starts out with a great bluesy intro on guitar and harmonica before it kicks in, love the way the band burns through the verses but slow it down and dirty at the chorus and the harmonica solo is awesome. “Bad Habit Romance” starts out acoustic then fires on all cylinders for not only the best song on the album but one of the best songs of the year. “Sextalkin'” sounds like a heavier sleazy version of the Quireboys with some nice honky tonk piano and some great slide guitar. “I’m A Vibe” has a great groove to it and I just can’t get enough of Kaleva’s vocals or Dixxi’s guitar. Great intro from the rhythm section on “Wasteland” before Dixxi takes over on guitar. “Shine, Shine, Shine” is a mid tempo bluesy number with some nice background vocals and foot tapping groove probably my second favorite song on the album. More harmonica and honky tonk piano on the rocking “Don’t Drag Me Down” which should get the crowds singing along in a live setting. “I’ll Get Rich” is another song that reminds me of a heavier version of the Quireboys, one more great song on “Bad Habit Romance”. “Left Alone” would fit nicely on any Backyard Babies or Hardcore Superstar album and is a great way to wrap up “Bad Habit Romance”.
Along with Heaven’s Basement, Innocent Rosie is easily one of the best new bands of the year and given some good record company support Innocent Rosie could have a monster on their hands with this debut. Not just a great debut but a great rock ‘n roll record as a whole, I’m hoping they can make it across the Atlantic to play some live shows here in the states definitely wouldn’t want to miss that show.
You can check out Innocent Rosie at www.myspace.com/innocentrosie and by all means buy a copy of “Bad Habit Romance” or you’ll be missing out.
Rating: Out of 10
Track Listing:
01. Bitter Cocktail
02. Knock Me Out
03. Animal
04. Let A Memory Die
05. Bad Habit Romance
06. Sextalkin’
07. I’m A Vibe
08. Wasteland
09. Shine, Shine, Shine
10. Don’t Drag Me Down
11. I’ll Get Rich
12. Left Alone
Innocent Rosie:
Oscar Kaleva – vocals
Joel Eliasson – guitar
Olof Oljelund – bass
Benjamin Borang – drums
0 HRH Dishes Out a Heap of Big Cock’s Dave Henzerling
I recently had the opportunity to talk to Big Cock guitarist Dave Henzerling not only about the future of Big Cock, but his past time in such bands as King Kobra, Keel, & Lizzy Borden, touring vs not touring, and a little bit about his days on Sunset Strip
HRH: I guess the first question should be with Robert Mason now the front man for Warrant when are we going to see a new record from Big Cock and will Robert be involved with the album?
Dave: BC is very much alive and well. Robert had a great opportunity to go play shows with Warrant and I think he totally kicks ass! Robert’s professionalism is something Warrant has really needed for a long time and I wish them the best. Like anything else, though, we each have our individual schedules and responsibilities to contend with, so we juggle all our musical projects the best we can. I have a bunch of new Big Cock material so it will have to rear its ugly head eventually. Not before next year, though, at the soonest.
HRH: Big Cock has released 3 albums so far but never really toured off any of them. Will there be any plans for a full fledged tour after the album is released?
Dave: Touring is just not economically feasible at this time. It’s a different story for legacy acts like Warrant, Ratt, etc. who can get booked because of their pedigree, but a new act just can’t make the money that would allow traditional touring. Even the acts I just mentioned do better just cherry-picking good-paying dates here and there rather than keeping an entire crew and support package out on the road. The per diem costs are astronomical and there would need to be supplemental support. This used to come from record companies, but doesn’t exist anymore. We are able to play when dates either justify the expense or we can afford to make the trip. How’s that for the brutally frank answer…?
HRH: How did Big Cock come together?
Dave: Did you just say “come together”…? Well, Big Cock “came together” out of the desire for a few old friends to make some music and have fun. The band happened really naturally and easy. Once you decide to call your band Big Cock, you definitely have an identifiable, focused theme with which to work from.
HRH: Do you guys have a hard time getting support from radio and others in the music business because of the band’s name?
Dave: My stock answer is that it’s been no more, no less. Traditional radio and record industry wasn’t going to play us or take us seriously anyway, even if we would have called ourselves “Knightwing”. The flip side is that the music and vibe has resonated with rock fans that look beyond traditional media for their rock fix. In that regard, we have been very successful selling CDs, merchandise, being played on Internet Radio and have had amazing word-of-mouth. Our YouTube video plays are in the hundreds-of-thousands, far more views than many, more mainstream bands. More visibility than King Kobra had, and we were on a major record label with a huge promotional budget.
HRH: You’ve had a pretty varied career playing Keel, Lizzy Borden, and of course King Kobra. Both Keel and Lizzy Borden played Rocklahoma. Did you get a chance to see them play or hangout with anyone from the bands?
Dave: I’ve stayed friends with or have been reconnected with all those bands in the last few years and have been fortunate to have made so many great friends. I saw Ron Keel this year at Rocklhoma, bump into Lizzy with some frequency and usually talk to Carmine a few times a year. We’re all thrilled to have played together and still have so much fun doing what we do. We take the time to catch up here and there and it’s always great seeing everybody.
HRH: How old you were when you first started playing guitar? How old were you when you knew you wanted to be a musician as a career?
Dave: My dad bought me my first electric guitar when I was 15. Yeesh, you’d think I would have been a better player by now…
I’ve always needed an outlet for creative release: when I was in grade school I used to want to be a comic book artist and so I drew all the time, making my own heroes and stories and distributing my own comics. When I got a little older and started playing guitar, I put down the pencil and never looked back.
HRH: You are one of the first people I’ve had the chance to talk to that was on Sunset Strip during its heyday in the 80’s. Was it as wild and crazy as people say?
Dave: Actually, yes – but it didn’t seem so at the time. It was so fun to see thousands of people out on the street on a Friday and Saturday night. The roads were littered with flyers from all the young bands out promoting their next Gazzari’s or Whiskey-a-go-go gigs. I even met my wife in the parking lot of the Roxy Theatre and we’ve been married 17 years. Who says you can’t find love in Hollywood…
HRH: How did you get involved with King Kobra?
Dave: I moved out to L.A. (from Arizona) to join Keel and when I got there, Ron told us he was auditioning to be the new lead singer of Black Sabbath so we might have to find another gig. I sent a tape to Carmine and got the job in King Kobra. Ron never ended up joining Sabbath, so he soldiered on with Keel.
HRH: Carmen Appice and yourself are the only members of King Kobra to play on all 5 albums the band released. Do you still keep in touch with Carmen Appice?
Dave: I still talk to Carmine a few times a year. In fact, we performed a benefit here in Phoenix together a few years ago and it was great playing with Carmine again. He’s such a great musician and drummer.
HRH: Have you had a chance to see his SLAMM project?
Dave: I have not seen it.
HRH: Do you keep in touch with any of the other members?
Dave: Coincidentally, I just talked to Johnny Rod last week after 18 years. He’s alive and well and living in St. Louis. Same with Mick Sweda. Mark Free, not so much.
HRH: Has there been any talks of a King Kobra reunion for any of the summer festivals?
Dave: None.
HRH: As I mentioned earlier you were at Rocklahoma this year and played two different sets one with Big Cock and one with Icon. How long have you been playing with Icon or was it a one off gig?
Dave: Rocklahoma was like a high-school reunion – lot’s of fun hangin’ with old friends. The Icon thing is a funny story. Way back in the early 80’s, Icon used to be called “The Schoolboys” and consisted of original singer Steve Clifford, bassist Tracy Wallach, guitarists Dan Wexler and myself, along with drummer John Covington (also the drummer in Big Cock). After I left to move to L.A. and join Keel, John Aqulino took my place on guitar, and Pat Dixon replaced John Covington on drums. They changed their name to Icon after they were signed to Capitol Records. Ironically, when I joined King Kobra after Keel, both bands ended up being label-mates at Capitol with the same A&R guy! Dan Wexler and John Aquilino reformed Icon last year and since we’ve always been good friends (all the way back to high school here in Arizona) I said I’d help out as a bass player while they were getting things back together. The chemistry was great and we just decided to keep on playing…
HRH: You played bass for Icon’s set is it hard switching back n forth between guitar and bass?
Dave: I love playing bass. It’s only got 4 strings, so how hard could it be?
HRH: Former Adler’s Appetite singer Sheldon Tarsha is now in Icon and sounded great. How did he end up in the band?
Dave: I saw Tarsha at an Adler’s gig in L.A. earlier this year and said to Danny and John – this is the guy. Icon’s high-register vocal style is incredibly challenging (a lost art, really) and it was surprising to see a young guy like Tarsha kick it old-school. He’s really a stellar vocalist and super nice guy.
HRH: You live in AZ so you are used to the heat, but the heat was pretty stifling in Pryor this year. You had to be glad you played night sets and not mid day sets.
Dave: Try living here where it’s over 110 degrees for weeks on end. Oklahoma was a piece of cake.
HRH: You were at Comic Con this year, was this for business or fun?
Dave: Definitely fun. As I said before, I’m a big comic book geek, but the Con is so much more now. It’s really a celebration of popular culture, with movies, graphic arts, games, and of course, comics. I got to meet a lot of my Twitter friends for the first time at the Con.
HRH: I’ve noticed that you and I like a lot of the same bands, one band in particular are the Poodles. What do you think of all 80’s inspired hard rock bands coming out of Sweden and Europe?
Dave: I think The Poodles are one of the better bands doing that sort of thing – very polished and professional. I hate to be a critic, but a lot of the 80’s-inspired bands these days are not doing anything different than their legacy counterparts, except the new bands aren’t doing it as well and lack originality and creativity. It’s one thing to dress up like Motley Crue, Poison or Gun’s ‘n Roses, but none seem to be able to play or write songs anywhere near as good as the bands they’re trying to copy. We need something to come along that’s reminiscent, but not overtly derivative.
HRH: What are some of the new bands out right now that you like?
Dave: I like a lot of different stuff from modern to classic. The new Halestorm CD is great, The Poodles, of course, AC/DC still kicks major ass, Slipknot, etc. I like the rock stuff.
HRH: Have you and your brother Dan (former Gin Blossoms drummer) ever played in a band together professionally or ever talked about putting a project together?
Dave: He doesn’t play much any more, but I have played with him a few times in the past when he had the band Gas Giants with Robin Wilson from the Gin Blossoms. Of course, when we were kids, we had a band that played nothing but Kiss songs.
HRH: You seem like a pretty busy man are there any other projects you want to tell us about?
Dave: I am currently busy finishing up a new project with Scott Hammons, the former Icon singer before Tarsha. I’m really excited about how it’s turning out. Scott has a great old-school, bluesy voice, very similar to Robert Mason’s (Big Cock, Warrant) but with more rasp. The music has a classic late-70’s, early-80’s hard rock feel that combines all the elements of the music I grew up on and always loved – Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Van Halen, Montrose, Crue, and Def Lep. I can’t wait for you to hear it…
HRH: I know you are pretty active online with myspace and twitter but for everyone else where can they find you online?
Dave: My MySpace is my main portal right now, so www.MySpace.com/henzerling. Also www.twitter.com/henzerheap (@henzerheap). I’ll be announcing more details about my new project through these outlets.
HRH: Thanks for taking the time to talk to us. Is there anything you would like to say before we let you go?
Dave: It’s been a pleasure to rattle on, Brian. Thanks to Hard Rock Hideout for the opportunity to talk and keep the rock-torch burning.
9 Danger Danger – Revolve (2009)
Five years after they announced Ted Poley had rejoined Danger Danger and 20 years after the release of their debut, Danger Danger returns with “Revolve”. Was it worth the wait? I guess that depends if you are a fan of the Danger Danger from 20 years ago with songs filled with sexual innuendo such as “Naughty Naughty” and “Slipped Her The Big One” or an older more mature band with 20+ years of music business experience behind them. I happen to be a fan of both and have made no secret of how much I was looking forward to hearing the new music. While I liked the albums with Paul Laine on vocals, Ted Poley will always be the voice of Danger Danger to me, and he has never sounded better than he does on “Revolve”.
“That’s What I’m Talking About” starts “Revolve” off and while I don’t think it is the best way to open the album it is a great song that makes you want to crank the stereo up and sing at the top of your lungs, the rhythm section of Steve West and Bruno Ravel sound as great as ever and Rob Marcello plays guitar like a man obsessed. “the Ghost of Love” is a great melodic rocker the band is famous for as tight as the band sounds you would never think it has been 11 years since Ravel, West, and Poley were in the studio together. “Killin’ Love” has some slow driving bass lines and though it is a slower mid tempo song it still makes you want to crank it up and sing along. “Hearts On The Highway” can’t say enough about this song it is classic Danger Danger at their best, great melodies, great hooks and background vocals one of the best on the album. “Fugitive” is a ballad with acoustic guitars, piano, and strings starting things off which could give the guys a Top 40 hit if released as a single. “Keep On Keepin’ On” would be my pick as the album opener this is a great summertime song yet another track that makes you want to crank it up and sing along as your flying down the highway, probably Rob Marcello’s best solo on the album and another one of the best songs on “Revolve”. “Rocket To Your Heart” once again classic Danger Danger, Ted Poley sounds great on this song as does Bruno’s bass. “F.U. $” is an anthem about exactly what the title suggests filled with some great gang vocals, another nice solo from Marcello that should go over well live. “Beautiful Regret” is a heavy modern sounding song but fits perfectly on “Revolve”. “Never Give Up” is a mid tempo song that would’ve fit perfectly on the band’s debut or “Screw It” once again classic Danger Danger sound. Leave it to Danger Danger to save the best for last with “Dirty Mind” not only does Poley sound great the band as a whole really nail this song a great rocking song and the perfect way to close “Revolve”.
No matter what you think of Danger Danger they definitely deserve some respect. While alot of other “80’s” bands have dried up and blown away these guys kept putting out some great music and with Ted Poley back in the band I believe it is only going to get better. I just hope it isn’t another 5 years before the follow-up to “Revolve” is released.
Rating: Out of 10
Track Listing:
01. That’s What I’m Talking About
02. Ghost Of Love
03. Killin’ Love
04. Hearts On The Highway
05. Fugitive
06. Keep On Keepin’ On
07. Rocket To Your Heart
08. F.U.$
09. Beautiful Regret
10. Never Give Up
11. Dirty Mind
Danger Danger is:
Ted Poley – Vocals
Bruno Ravel – Bass
Rob Marcello – Guitars
Steve West – Drums
3 The Wildhearts – Chutzpah (2009)
For the people who know me it is no secret I am a huge Wildhearts fan. Ginger Wildheart is probably one of the most under appreciated musicians in the business today, not only as a songwriter but singer as well. The Wildhearts may be an acquired taste for some people, but seriously folks Ginger could sing Webster’s Dictionary and make it catchy and sing along. Needless to say I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Chutzpah which is the Wildhearts 9th studio album and the first original album since ’07’s self titled effort. Chutzpah is definitely the most cohesive release so far and also has the chance to be the biggest Wildhearts album to date. “The Jackson Whites” kicks everything off in grand fashion. This song is absolutely begging to be played live and one guaranteed to get the crowd involved with the sing along chorus and great rhythm. “Plastic Jebus” has an industrialized feel to it ala Rob Zombie until the vocals kick in and oddly enough the vocals and music melt together perfectly. “Plastic Jebus” should garner the Wildhearts all kinds of spins on radio along with “the Only One” which is a mid-tempo number that alternative radio is jumping all over these days. Dare I say “the Only One” could be a Top 40 hit? Quite possibly.
In the same vein as “the Jackson Whites” “John of Violence” is another song begging to be played live, great rhythm, great feel, and Ritch Battersby kills the drums on this song excellent job. With a chugging intro and great catchy foot stomping chorus “You Are Proof That Not All Women Are Insane” could quite possibly be the best song on “Chutzpah”. What Wildhearts album without at least one song where Ginger is raging on vocals? For Chutzpah, “Tim Smith” is that song heavy chugging bass lines from Scott Sorry, Ginger’s raging vocals classic Wildhearts right here. “You Took The Sunshine From New York” is one more song that should get plenty of spins on radio this is a catchy almost pop song that is great nonetheless and could give “Women Are Insane” a run for best song on this album. “Mazel Tov Cocktail” another great catchy pop oriented song from Ginger and the guys foot tapping sing along at its best. The title track “Chutzpah” closes out the album and it is another rager. Good luck trying to sing a long with this one.
Chutzpah is loaded with great songs from start to finish, absolutely no filler on this album. As great a job Ginger and the guys did with the songwriting and playing you have to give producer Jacob Hansen a hand for bringing it altogether and getting the very best out of the band on this release. The results? One of the best albums of the year and the best Wildhearts album yet.
Check out the Wildhearts at www.myspace.com/thewildhearts or www.thewildhearts.com
Rating: Out of 10
Track Listing:
1. The Jackson Whites
2. Plastic Jebus
3. The Only One
4. John Of Violence
5. You Are Proof That Not All Women Are Insane
6. Tim Smith
7. Low Energy Vortex
8. You Took The Sunshine From New York
9. Mazel Tov Cocktail
10. Chutzpah
The Wildhearts are:
Ginger – Vocals/Guitar
CJ – Vocals/Guitar
Scott Sorry – Vocals/Bass
Ritch Battersby – Drums
0 Hard Rock Hideout’s Fresh Blood Featuring Eruption
England’s Eruption is a four piece that comes to us by way of Brisbane Australia, made up of Darren Grant (Vocals), Santi Rigolizio (Guitar), Lee Golledge (Drums), and Nick Power (Bass) this Italian Aussie band came together in 2003 after Santi Rigolizio moved to Australia from Italy with hopes of breaking in to the Australian music scene. After placing a few ads in the local newspapers Rigolizio finally got a call from Darren Grant and the seeds of Eruption were planted.
The next 6 years saw the band go through numerous members and two different names, Mobstar and Daz Rigo, before the band signed with Escape Music and changed their name to Eruption.
Eruption’s debut is titled “All Screwed Up” and is chock full of 80’s inspired hard rock with some great playing and background vocals. Darren Grant is a powerhouse whiskey and cigarette type of vocalist, but Santi Rigolizio is an absolute monster on guitar. Give such tracks as “Bad Girl”, “Naive”, and “Reflection” a listen and it is easy to hear.
You can check Eruption out at www.myspace.com/eruption2009 and “All Screwed Up” is available for purchase from www.nehrecords.com, www.cdbaby.com, www.aorheaven.com, and www.escape-music.com.
0 Tigertailz Cancel Rock Gone Wild Appearance
U.K. glam rockers Tigertailz have been forced to cancel their appearance at Rock Gone Wild, the Iowa-based, four-day festival which is being held August 20-23 at The Diamond Jo Casino in Northwood. According to the band, “Administrative problems leading up to the event have proved impossible to overcome in time for the band to travel to the USA.”
The group adds, “Tigertailz are hugely frustrated and disappointed with this outcome and apologize to those looking forward to see them. The band really wanted to be part of this. However, with many necessary formalities not being finalized and the show only a matter of weeks away, the situation has become an impossible one.” Once again, to those in the USA wanting to see Tigertailz, our sincerest apologies – if there was any way of being there, we’d be there – hopefully we’ll get to you soon…
Tigertailz, which consist of Kim Hooker (vocals), Jay Pepper (Guitars), and Matt Blackout (Drums), had been scheduled to perform on Thursday’s lineup with Saigon Kick, Honeymoon Suite, Tyketto, Warrant, and others. There has been no word on a replacement act at this time.
You can visit www.tigertailz.co.uk or www.myspace.com/tigertailzcouk for the latest news on the band.
0 Introducing….The Poodles; Hard Rock Hideout’s Interview With Pontus Egberg
For those who have not heard the Poodles, you have no idea what an amazing band you are missing out on. The band has released two stellar albums in Europe “Metal Will Stand Tall” and “Sweet Trade”. With the release of their amazing new album “Clash of the Elements” the band hopes to finally break into the American music scene and once they do I think the sky is the limit for these Swedes. I recently had the opportunity to talk to bassist Pontus Egberg to tell me all about “the Poodles”.
HRH: For people that may not be familiar with the Poodles could you give us a brief history of the band?
Pontus: The band was formed in late 2005 when we had the opportunity to perform in the Swedish leg of the Eurovision Song Contest. For those of you who are not familiar with the Eurovision it is a contest for new music all over Europe, it’s a very big thing back home in Sweden, something like half the population of Sweden sit and watch the final on TV.
After the appearance in this contest the wheels started moving quite rapidly for The Poodles and in the spring of 2006 we released of debut album “Metal Will Stand Tall”. The rest of that year we basically spent on the roads in Sweden and in January of 2007 “Metal Will Stand Tall” was released all over Europe and we headed out on tour together with Hammerfall and Krokus, a trip that took us all over Europe with something like 31 shows in 35 days.
Back from that journey we started recording our sophomore album and with some touring back home in Sweden coming in between the album “Sweet Trade” was released in September of 2007. Right after the release we headed out on another journey through Europe, this time together with Swiss rockers Gotthard. During the spring of 2008 we hit the roads of Europe once again and this time as the headline act. The tour carried on through the summer back home in Sweden and after that we started the preparations for recording our third album.
“Clash Of The Elements” was released on the Swedish market May 20th of 2009, the early fall will see the European release and we really hope we will be able to officially release the album, or all of our albums, in the states really soon.
HRH: The new album is titled “Clash of the Elements” is there a story behind the title?
Pontus: No, not really, it actually came up when we were discussing the album cover design. Someone had the idea to use the old symbols for the four different elements, earth, water, fire and air, and to do something with that. Then the title “Clash Of The Elements” came up and it fits really well with everything we do. First of all we’re four musicians and when we clash together sweet music comes out and we’ve always liked to mix different styles and to use elements in our music may not be typical for our style of music so that can also be a clash of the elements that ends up in something great, hopefully.
HRH: This is the first album with Henrik Bergqvist and his playing is amazing. What was it like going into the studio with a new guitarist?
Pontus: It’s always a bit nerve wrecking, of course. We’d done two albums with our former guitar player and we weren’t sure what thing were going to sound like with Henrik but as you say yourself, his playing is simply amazing, he did a really good job. We weren’t that worried though, I must say, we had done quite a few live shows with Henrik and he had already blended in to the band in a fantastic way so we were pretty sure it was going to turn out great.
HRH: Was the band surprised when Pontus Norgren announced he was leaving the band to join Hammerfall?
Pontus: Yeah, we were all taken a bit by surprise I guess but now, a little more than a year later, when Henrik has found his place in the band we’re all really happy. Henrik fills the spot of guitar player in The Poodles in the best possible way and I talk regularly to Pontus and it seems like he’s really happy in his new band.
HRH: When it came time to find a replacement for Pontus did the band already have Henrik in mind or was there an audition process? If so how many guitarists did you audition before deciding on Henrik?
Pontus: Yes and yes. Henrik was one of the first names that came up but we had quite a few applicants for the spot so we sorted out the top four names, Henrik was one of them, and held auditions. After a day in the rehearsal studio playing with the different guys it was pretty clear that our first hunch had been right and Henrik was asked if he wanted the job and he accepted.
HRH: When I compare “Sweet Trade” to “Clash of the Elements” I can here a big difference and growth in the songwriting. What was the songwriting process like for the band with the new album?
Pontus: The song writing process actually looked pretty much the same as on our previous albums. We’ve always liked to work with different songwriters in order to try to get the best possible song on our albums. We all contribute and I guess you could say Jakob is the common denominator to all of it because he’s involved in most of the songs in one way or the other. Then we sit with a whole bunch of songs and are having trouble choosing the top songs for the album. It usually works out pretty well though, no big fights or anything like that.
HRH: Was Henrik involved in the writing process for “Clash of the Elements”?
Pontus: Yes, Henrik and I wrote a few songs together that we put in to the pile of music and one of them, Don’t Rescue Me, ended up on the album.
HRH: When I listen to “Clash of the Elements” as well as “Sweet Trade” and “Metal Will Stand Tall” I hear Queen and Gotthard influence. Are they influences of the band? What are some of the other bands that have influenced the Poodles music?
Pontus: We’re all pretty much brought up on the classic Hard Rock and Heavy Metal of the ‘70s and ‘80s so I guess involuntarily we have a lot of influences from that style of music, bands like AC/DC, Aerosmith, Van Halen, Iron Maiden, and many, many more. Queen is definitely one of those bands. Gotthard though I had personally never heard before we toured with them in 2007. It’s a fantastic band so I don’t mind if there seems to be some of them in our music but that’s definitely unintentional. Apart from that, as I mentioned earlier, we really like and listen to and take influences from a lot of different styles of music, pop, classical, anything.
HRH: I love every song on “Clash of the Elements” but “No Tomorrow”, “Don’t Rescue Me”, “Give Me A Sign”, and “Dream To Follow” are my favorites. What is your favorite song off the new album? What is your favorite song overall to play live?
Pontus: Thank you! I think you made some very good choices there. I guess I could add “I Rule The Night”, “Heart Of Gold” and “Too Much Of Everything”. Favorite song to play live varies a bit from one night to the other but I would say, personally, that my favorite is probably “Thunderball”.
HRH: What are the tour plans in supporting the new album? Is there any chance your fans in the U.S. will get to see you live?
Pontus: We are currently on tour back home in Sweden all through the summer and a tour of Europe is currently being put together and that is planed to start in October and will probably be a going on for a month or so. About the US, we would definitely like to come over and play for you guys and we are looking in to different options on how get our music properly released over there. If that falls in to place the way we want, who knows. I’m keeping my fingers crossed.
HRH: How many songs off “Clash of the Elements” will the band try to fit into the live set this time around?
Pontus: We currently play five songs from the new album in our live set, “Too Much Of Everything”, “Caroline”, “Like No Tomorrow”, “One Out Of Ten” and “I Rule The Night”. During the European tour this fall we will probably add one or two more songs from “Clash Of The Elements”
HRH: When I wrote my review for “Clash of the Elements” I mentioned there was not an American A&R rep smart enough to sign the Poodles to an American recording contract. Has the band had any talks with U.S. record companies about getting your albums released here in the states?
Pontus: First of all let me say I really like that comment and yes, we’ve had talks and talks are still going on, right now as a matter a fact, and we really hope to get something together for the US this time around.
HRH: “Metal Will Stand Tall” and “Sweet Trade” are both available for download from I-Tunes and “Metal Will Stand Tall” is available as a digital download on Amazon. Any idea when “Clash of the Elements” will be available for download on I-Tunes or Amazon?
Pontus: No, actually I don’t. Real soon I hope.
HRH: Over the last few years the Swedish hard rock scene has just exploded to the point that it seems like there is a new Swedish hard rock band releasing an album practically every week. What do you think is the reason for the popularity of Swedish hard rock bands?
Pontus: I actually have no idea what the reason for this is but I love it, it’s a great thing and I think the popularity of this style of music is growing, not only in Sweden, but in a lot of other places as well and that is a really good thing for anyone who plays or just enjoys this kind of music.
HRH: Is there a lot of competition between the different bands or is there camaraderie between the bands?
Pontus: A bit of competition is just a healthy thing I think but mostly I would say everyone is supportive; basically we all have the same goal and the same mission. We all work hard to reach out with our music.
HRH: Did you know “Clash of the Elements” is the first and only album I have ever given a 10 guitar review for?
Pontus: No, I didn’t know this. Thanks a lot, I read the review and I’m still blushing. It’s really great to know that there are people on your side of the Atlantic who enjoy our music and it makes us want to come over there and play even more.
HRH: Is there anything else you would like to say to Poodle fans before we let you go?
Pontus: I would like to encourage you, if you like our music, to help us spread the word, talk to your local radio station or what ever and help us get The Poodles’ music out there. Then maybe some A&R rep will see things clearly and offer The Poodles a proper record deal in the States and we can come over and play for you all. We are certainly up for it.
HRH: Thank you for taking the time to talk to us, we really appreciate it.
Pontus: It’s been a pleasure and thanks for the support!!!
1 Video Double Shot – Saints & Sinners & Cold Sweat
Stumbling around on Youtube this weekend I came across a couple of bands that were lost in the “Grunge Revolution” in the early 90’s. First up is Canada’s Saints & Sinners, even with the help of Aldo Nova, Jon Bon Jovi, & Richie Sambora the band couldn’t survive Seattle. Which is a shame because their one and only album is filled with great rockers from beginning to end just a damn shame they never got a real chance to show the world what they had.
Next we have Marc Ferrari’s post Keel project Cold Sweat. Not only did they have to deal with Seattle but an incompetent record company also a.k.a. MCA. Absolutely one of the worst record companies in the music industry when it came to handling hard rock bands. In the case of Cold Sweat MCA cut the band loose the day their debut “Break Out” was released. Bassist Chris McLernon went on to join Saigon Kick, while Ferrari put together another band first called Ivory Tower before changing their name to Medicine Wheel and releasing two albums.
Any fan of melodic hard rock should definitely have both of these albums in their collection. Both are easy to find on EBay or Amazon though they may not exactly be cheap.
9 Cheap Trick – The Latest (2009)
Cheap Trick is a band that needs no introduction and there should be no argument that they are legends, who deserve a place in the Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Fame. They have sold millions of records not only in the U.S. but worldwide and they have influenced countless bands. Unlike a lot of the bands that came out around the same time, Rockford, IL finest are not content resting on their achievements and just touring off their catalog. In fact I think the guys have gotten better since their so-called “heyday”. With their newest release simply titled “the Latest” one listen is all it takes to realize the British Invasion and the Beatles were a huge influence, more so than on any other previous albums, and that influence has given Cheap Trick their best album in the last 20 years.
After a short intro titled “Sleep Forever” Robin Zander and the guys kick into “When The Lights Are Out” which is a good time fun song filled with melodies galore, a great groove and sing along chorus that should put a smile on your face unless you are legally dead. “Miss Tomorrow” is up next which reminds me of the late George Harrison when he was working with Jeff Lynne with the acoustic guitars, strings, and Zander’s absolutely perfect vocals. The album’s first single “Sick Man of Europe” is one of the heavier songs on the album with a Kinks feel to it. For all you useless trivia buffs Sick Man of Europe was also a band name used by Rick Nielsen and Tom Petersson before they finally decided on Cheap Trick. “These Days” is a classic Cheap Trick type of ballad, which should get major airplay at the very least on the classic rock stations. John Lennon’s influence is all over “Miracle” an absolutely great song. “Everyday You Make Me Crazy” may only be a minute and twenty seven seconds long but the guys make the most of it. “California Girl” is another song that sounds heavily influenced by both the Kinks and the Beatles, this stomper is a perfect song for summer. “Alive” is another stomper in the classic Cheap Trick fashion, unlike a lot of guitarists Rick Nielsen does not need a flashy solo every song to show the world how great he is and his playing on “Alive” is a prime example of that.
With 13 songs on “the Latest” Cheap Trick makes sure everyone gets their money’s worth delivering a fantastic album filled with layer upon layer of hooks, melodies, and catchy well written and played songs, one hell of a great summertime album.
Rating: Out of 10
Track Listing:
- Sleep Forever
- When The Lights Are Out
- Miss Tomorrow
- Sick Man of Europe
- These Days
- Miracle
- Everyday You Make Me Crazy
- California Girl
- Everybody Knows
- Alive
- Times of Our Lives
- Closer, The Ballad of Burt and Linda
- Smile
Vodpod videos no longer available.
Cheap Trick is:
Robin Zander – vocals, guitar
Rick Nielsen – guitar, vocals
Tom Petersson – 12-string bass, vocals
Bun E. Carlos – drums, percussion
0 Video Doubleshot – Gotthard & the Poodles
This time around I wanted to share a couple of my favorite European bands that get almost no attention here in the U.S. First off, from their ’05 album “Lipservice” comes Switzerland’s Gotthard with “Lift U Up”. These guys have been releasing albums for 17 years and are considered one of the biggest bands in Europe.
Next comes the Poodles, who just released their third album “Clash of the Elements” which is absolutely amazing. “Streets of Fire” comes from their second album “Sweet Trade”. While they haven’t been around as long as Gotthard, these Swedes could be huge if given the chance.
2 HRH Fresh Blood Featuring Cockpit
What do Judas Priest, Kiss, Motorhead, AC/DC, & Hanoi Rocks have in common? Yes they are all some of the biggest bands in the world, but besides the obvious they are also all influences for L.A.’s Cockpit and boy did these ladies learn their lessons from the best, taking a piece from each band and putting it all together to make their own brand of in your face rock n’ roll.
Yes I said ladies, this four piece is made up of Linda Lou (vocals & guitar), Terrii Kiing (bass), Alicia Blu (guitar), and Rachel Rine (drums) and they are turning heads in more ways than one. But I can almost bet if you called them a girl band one of them would punch you in the face and keep on walking.
Cockpit came together at the end of 2003 and built their reputation and support from their raucous live shows, that eventually landed the band opening slots for a number of nationally known acts, along with a slot at Rocklahoma 2008 and a spot onstage for all four days of the inaugural Bayou Festival in Houston.
On their debut 5 track e.p. appropriately titled “Mission To Rock” Cockpit is taking no prisoners with such tracks as “Guns For Hire”, “White Flag”, “At A Loose End”. There are no sappy power ballads, no Richard Marx penned tunes but there are plenty of loud smoking guitars, powerhouse drums, and dirty, filthy bass lines not to mention Linda Lou’s arena ready vocals.
If you are ready for a wild ride jump on board and let Cockpit give you the ride of your life at www.myspace.com/cockpit or www.ilovecockpit.com. “Mission To Rock” is also available on I-Tunes.
You can also check out Cockpit’s video, “Gun For Hire” at this link.
1 Aerosmith’s Joe Perry turns to fans for album title
Aerosmith‘s next album might be “on the bench, in pieces,” waiting for the group to resume recording after it finishes touring in mid-September, but guitarist Joe Perry’s next solo album is just about ready to go.
Perry tells Billboard.com that he’s finishing mixing the follow-up to 2005’s Grammy-nominated “Joe Perry.” He plans to release a single in late July or early August, and the album will come out in the fall.
The one thing Perry doesn’t have yet is a title; for that he’s holding a contest via Twitter, asking fans for suggestions. If he chooses a fan’s idea, the winner will receive a guitar.
“It’s tough, obviously, without having heard the record for people to name it,” he notes, “but we may find something really good. There’ve already been a bunch that are possibilities.”
Perry says the set is a departure from his previous solo outing. “The last one was a straight-ahead rocker. This one’s got some different things on it.”
The album was recorded in about seven weeks at Perry’s home studio,The Boneyard; he shares lead vocal duties with a German singer who his wife, Billie, discovered on the Internet, and there’s one instrumental track. David Hull from the Joe Perry Project and Ben Tileston, who plays with two of Perry’s sons in TAB The Band, were also involved.
“We were working around the clock, through weekends and everything, and it was all live,” Perry says. “In fact, a lot of the vocals are live along with the rest of the band. (Sound) was bleeding from one track to another; if somebody had a bad take everybody had a bad take, and we played it ’til we got a good one. Of course we went in and overdubbed a lot of the other stuff, but the energy is there. You can feel it.”
Once the album is released, Perry hopes to hit the road with his own band for “a short, fast, hard tour. That’s what I’m really looking forward to … getting back out there with some old friends and some other musicians and doing it like the old days.”
The Aerosmith album, its first since 2004’s “Honkin’ on Bobo,” will also be a consideration at that point as the group — which wraps its current tour with ZZ Top on September 16 — hits the studio again with producer Brendan O’Brien.
“That is the next project right after we get off the road,” Perry says. “We’ll take a little break and then put it together. I’m hoping it will come together pretty fast, but I’ve been saying that for five years.”
Source: Billboard & Reuters
2 Outloud! – S/T (2009)
In all honesty my draw to Outloud! was lead singer Chandler Mogel, I was blown away by his work on the last Talon album “Fallen Angels”. I wasn’t familiar with the other members of Outloud! at all, but after hearing their debut that is all going to change very fast.
In addition to Mogel, Outloud! is made up of Tony Kash (Guitar), Bob Katsionis (Guitar/Keyboards), Jason Mercury (Bass), and Mark Cross (Drums). This international line-up is ready to take the world by storm with their 80’s inspired brand of melodic rock. The band’s sound has been called a conglomeration of Riot, Skid Row, TNT, and a bit of Foreigner thrown in and I couldn’t agree more.
“What I Need” is a straight up in your face rocker that kicks the album off that has everyone going at a 100 mph with the duo of Kash and Katsionis stealing the show. “We Run” leans more to the melodic side of the spectrum I expected and it turns out to be one of the catchiest songs on the album with Mercury laying down some great bass lines and Mogel sounds great as always. Katsionis’s keyboard skills are on show for the melodic rocker “Tonight” another great sing along chorus and a great groove. “Search For Truth” gets my vote as the best track on this album with an outstanding performance by all five members of Outloud! but Mark Cross is awesome on this track. “This Broken Heart” is a nice mid tempo ballad that starts out acoustic before kicking in at the chorus.
With the exception of the ballad “Lovesigh” the rest of “Outloud!” is filled with straight up rockers guaranteed to please the masses.
Check out the band’s myspace at www.myspace.com/outloudtheband. Outloud! are definitely a band worth checking out and keeping an eye on for 2009 and beyond, you will not be disappointed.
Rating: Out of 10
Track Listing:
01. What I Need
02. We Run
03. Tonight
04. Search For Truth
05. This Broken Heart
06. Breathing The Fire
07. Wild Life
08. Broken Sleep
09. Out In The Night
10. Lovesigh
11. Out Loud
OUTLOUD is:
Jason Mercury – Bass
Bob Katsionis – Guitar & Keyboards
Mark Cross – Drums
Chandler Mogel – Vocals
Tony Kash – Guitar
0 Pistol Dawn – Conversation Piece (2009)
EONIAN Records latest release comes to us from Chicago, IL in the form of “Conversation Piece” by Pistol Dawn. Originally formed in 1988 this four-piece is made up of Freddy “Faster” Brecht – Lead Vocals and Guitars, Scotti Ryan – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals, Rob Stratton – Bass, & Don Ferguson – Drums. The band has toured with such acts as Cheap Trick, Dangerous Toys, Enuff Z’Nuff and Lillian Axe. Chip Z’nuff produced the band’s “Shot in the Act” e.p. and along with a touch of sleaze you can definitely hear Enuff Z’nuff influences on tracks like “Stocks & Blonds” & “Gone Away”. Like with most retro-releases the sound quality isn’t the greatest but this is by far the best release I have heard from Eonian so far.
The album’s title track kicks everything off with a sleazy hard driving beat from Stratton and Ferguson and some very nice playing from Ryan. Freddy Brecht’s vocals are also great on this song very hard to find anyone to compare his singing style too. “Dreams Come True” is a great catchy summer song, why this song did not get airplay back in the day is beyond me as it is custom built for radio and the same could be said for both “Be My Girl”, “Message In A Bottle”, and “HArd Way” as all three are filled with catchy hooks, great rhythm, and sing a long choruses. Scotti Ryan can definitely hold his own on guitar with just about anyone on stage today. “Gone Away” is a mid-tempo/ballad with a great guitar intro and playing throughout “Still Running Wild” and “Talk of the Town” get the band back into sleaze territory, with “Talk of the Town” being one of the best songs on the album. Fortunately Pistol Dawn saved the weakest track on the record for last with “Wish Upon A Star” because it would have definitely been a record killer if it was placed somewhere in the middle of the record.
If you’re looking an 80’s band that didn’t get a fair shake the first time around “Conversation Piece” and Pistol Dawn is a good place to start.
Check them out at myspace, at this link.
Rating: Out of 10
Track Listing:
1. Conversation Piece
2. Message In A Bottle
3. Dreams Come True
4. Be My Girl
5. Hard Way
6. Gone Away
7. Stocks and Blonds
8. Still Running Wild
9. Talk Of The Town
10. Wish Upon A Star
Pistol Dawn is:
Freddy “Faster” Brecht – Lead Vocals and Guitars
Scotti Ryan – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Rob Stratton – Bass, “Stun Vocals”
Don Ferguson – Drums
3 The Poodles – Clash of the Elements (2009)
On more than one occasion when writing reviews there have been times when I struggle to find the words to describe a particular album, even though I may love the album the words just don’t come to mind. Fortunately with the Poodles third release “Clash of the Elements” that is not the case, without beating around the bush “Clash of the Elements” is absolutely AMAZING!!! These Swedish rockers have released hands down the best album I have heard all year. I liked the band’s two previous releases “Metal Will Stand Tall” and “Sweet Trade” but Jakob Samuel – Vocals, Christian Lundqvist – Drums, Pontus Egberg – Bass and Henrik Bergqvist – Guitar have unleashed a monster of an album, this time around filled with great harmonies, great playing and anthems tailor made for the stadiums.
“Clash of the Elements” opens with the epic “Too Much of Everything” filled with strings, piano, and is very reminiscent of Queen in their heyday. It flows flawlessly into “Caroline” which is a hard driving foot stomping rocker with a sing along chorus perfect for summer. Henrik Bergqvist definitely makes his mark on his debut with the band replacing the departed Pontus Norgren with some tight outstanding playing. “No Tomorrow” is an anthem in every since of the word, catchy, foot stomping, daring you to try and resist from singing along with Samuel’s soaring vocals along with the rest of the band’s background vocals. “One Out of Ten” is a piano power ballad that picks up after the first verse, Samuel’s vocals again sound great on this song, and I love that fact that a metal band is not afraid to use piano and strings on their songs giving them a fuller sound. “I Rule The Night” is another anthem with a little heavier vibe than “No Tomorrow” but just as good nonetheless, “Give Me A Sign” is a melodic rocker with a great chrous and some nice keyboards, Bergqvist goes off on the solo for this song too, very impressive. “Sweet Enemy” is a slow, heavy rocker that pulls you in and will not let go. “Seven Days & Seven Nights” is a rocker through and through with a honky- tonk piano opening before it kicks in along with “No Tomorrow” one of the catchiest songs on “Clash of the Elements”. On “Pilot of the Storm” Jakob Samuel is channeling David Coverdale at his best. “Don’t Rescue Me” is another outstanding melodic rocker which should earn the band some airplay on rock radio. “Dream To Follow” is one more awesome anthem with a great chorus and absolutely smoking guitar by Bergqvist, ready made for the stadium.
With 14 tracks “Clash of the Elements” has something for every rock fan to enjoy. Any fan of Queen, Scorpions, Gotthard, and even Whitesnake SHOULD have this album in their collection. If there is a downside to “Clash of the Elements” it is the fact that this is an import because there is not an American A&R rep smart enough to sign the Poodles to an American record deal. But please do not let this stop you from buying “Clash of the Elements” you will be cheating yourself out of hearing the absolute best album of 2009.
You can check out the Poodles at www.myspace.com/thepoodles or www.poodles.se
Rating: Out of 10
Track Listing:
01. Too Much Of Everything
02. Caroline
03. No Tomorrow
04. One Out Of Ten
05. I Rule The Night
06. Give Me A Sign
07. Sweet Enemy
08. Seven Days & Seven Nights
09. Pilot Of The Storm
10. Cant Let You Go
11. Dont Rescue Me
12. Heart Of Gold
13. Dream To Follow
14. Wings Of Destiny
The Poodles are:
Jakob Samuel – Vocals
Christian Lundqvist – Drums
Pontus Egberg – Bass
Henrik Bergqvist – Guitar
0 Hard Rock Hideout’s Fresh Blood Featuring Hell City Glamours
Hell City Glamours are no strangers to readers of HRH as we have reviewed both of their E.P.s and full length debut late last year. But this quartet from Sydney, Australia grow on me more and more as I listen to their music. Made up of Oscar McBlack – Vocals & Guitar, Mo Mayhem – Guitar & Vocals, Robbie Potts – Drums, and Jonny – Bass & Vocals having been banging out Rolling Stones and Hanoi Rocks flavored pub rock mixed with some punk rock energy and attitude for the last seven years. They have shared the stages in Australia with the likes of Hardcore Superstar, Alice Cooper, Brides of Destruction, along with countless other acts.
After releasing a 7″ and two successful e.p.s HCG released their full length self titled debut last fall. From the opening tracks “One Night Only” and “Back To You” to such songs as “Ready To Fall” and “I’m Not Here” Catchy, radio ready but still in your face with just enough swagger and attitude the guys are out to prove they can rock with the best and they do just that. If you are growing tired of all the modern hard rock bands out today, Hell City Glamours may be just the band for you.
You can give them a listen at www.myspace.com/hellcityglamours or by visiting www.hellcityglamours.com. You can also purchase their album and both e.p.s from I-Tunes and Amazon along various other digital music stores. Hell City Glamours definitely worth the money spent for their music.
1 Chris Laney – Pure (2009)
Chris Laney is probably best known at as a producer/engineer/songwriter or maybe as the guitarist for Zan Clan or Randy Piper’s Animal but with the release of his solo debut “Pure” he will definitely be making a name for himself as a performer in his own right. “Pure” is filled with catchy, hard driving Swedish rock with a modern twist and a sound that falls somewhere between Gemini Five and Shotgun Messiah with touches of Def Leppard thrown in. It’s not hard to miss that Laney is also heavily influenced by Robert “Mutt” Lange’s production techniques not only with how he makes the record sound like he had an unlimited budget to work with but also when it comes to working with the background vocal arrangements. Huge anthems, straight up rockers, heavy thumping hard driving songs “Pure” has it all and more.
“Situation” kicks everything off and gives you a taste of exactly what is in store for you on “Pure” this is a straight up rocker with some great guitar and background . “I Dunno” has anthem written all over it, huge vocals and background vocals with a sound that is a mix of Def Leppard and Shotgun Messiah that can stand toe to toe with some of the best rock anthems out there. “Make You Cry” reminds me of several bands the aforementioned Shotgun Messiah and Gemini Five with a little Crashdiet thrown in for good measure make this rocker one of the best on “Pure”. Laney gives a chance to catch our breath and slows everything down with “the Stranger In You” until the chorus kicks in that is. He adds a nice touch by adding strings and keyboards to the songs along with some great bass lines provided by Nalle ‘Grizzy’ Pahlsson. “Fire & Ice” is a great melodic rocker with Crashdiet’s Martin Sweet providing the solo on this track and once again some outstanding background vocals. “I Hate Yer Guts” is a hard driving rocker with some Zakk Wyldesque guitar, while “Get U Down” has touches of Def Leppard oozing out all over this song. “Pissed At What Ya Missed” sounds like another nod to Zinny Zan’s ex band this anthem has one of the best solos on the album. In my opinion “Last Man Standing” is the best track on “Pure” it is definitely the catchiest song on the album it reminds me of the “Crazy Nights”/”Hot In The Shade” era of Kiss. The ballad “Skin On Skin” is a definite change of pace compared to the rest of the songs on “Pure” with it piano, soaring chorus and Queen influence.
Fans of modern sounding hard driving hard rock will not be disappointed in “Pure” at all. Laney sounds as if he is looking towards the future but at the same time he also acknowledges the past and the bands that influenced his music. After hearing this album I am eager to hear what else Chris Laney has to offer the rock ‘n roll world both as a producer and a performer.
Chris Laney can be found online at www.chrislaney.com or www.myspace.com/chrislaney
Rating: Out of 10
Track Listing:
01. Situation
02. I Dunno
03. Make You Cry
04. The Stranger In You
05. Fire & Ice
06. I Hate Yer Guts
07. Get U Down
08. Pissed At What Ya Missed
09. Make My Day
10. Last Man Standing
11. Skin On Skin
12. Pride B 4 The Fall
Chris Laney band is:
J.Koleberg – Drums
Nalle Grizzly Påhlsson – Bass
Chris Laney – Guitars and Vocals
2 Chickenfoot – S/T (Release Year – 2009)
Finally, one of the most anticipated albums of the year is here with the release of Chickenfoot’s self titled debut album. Chickenfoot is a supergroup in every since of the word with all members of the band being huge names in the music industry by themselves.
In case you have spent the last year in a cave with no electricity or internet, Chickenfoot is made up of Sammy Hagar (vocals), Joe Satriani (Guitars), Ex-Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony, and Red Hot Chili Pepper’s Chad Smith (Drums), if anybody would seem out of place with the music Chickenfoot plays it would be Smith but his drum playing is awesome front to back on this album. I have to admit I am a huge Sammy Hagar fan and it is no secret he has one of the most recognizable voices in music and when you throw Michael Anthony into the mix there are bound to be endless Chickenfoot/Van Halen comparisions. Yes, this album does sound like a mix of Van Halen and Hagar’s post Van Halen solo albums, but the difference is Chickenfoot is better than any album Hagar did with Van Halen and when you add Hagar’s “Cabo Wabo Party Atmosphere” to the music you get a fun, rockin, filler free album. Satriani’s playing on this album is unbelievable, he is able to accomplish everything on guitar within the framework of the songs instead of going off on a tangent just for a solo like other well known guitarists are prone to do.
“Avenida Revolucion” kicks everything off, it is a heavy song with a pretty serious subject, Satriani absolutely shines on this song with some amazing playing but then again you wouldn’t expect anything less from him. “Soap On A Rope” and “Down the Drain” are both in the same vein with party jam vibe, which I imagine Satriani will just go crazy on in a live situation. Hagar’s vocals still sound great at 62 years old when most other singers have lost the power in their voice long before 62. “Sexy Little Thing” is a great catchy song filled with hooks galore, the way Hagar sings this song so laid back and relaxed you would think the man has absolutely no stress whatsoever in his life. I can definitely see this song getting tons of airplay. “Oh Yeah” has party tune written all over it much like Hagar’s “Mas Tequila”, “Shag”, or “Shaka Doobie (The Limit)”. “Runnin’ Out” has a bluesy vibe to it with some great gang vocals and some awesome bass lines from Michael Anthony.
“Get It Up” fall into the same catagory as “Oh Yeah” with more outstanding playing from Satriani and Anthony. Without a doubt “My Kinda Girl” is the catchiest song on the album, the kind of song you can’t help but to crank up and sing along with, another Chickenfoot song I can see getting tons of airplay. I’m not sure if “Learning To Fall” could be classified as a ballad but it is still a great song with some excellent background vocals. “Turnin’ Left” is another heavy jam song that sounds like Michael Anthony beat his bass to death recording this song. Clocking in at almost 7 minutes “Future In The Past” wraps the album up that starts out almost acoustic before it kicks in with a bluesy vibe with a honky tonk piano and harmonica thrown in, great way to close the album.
Unlike supergroups in the past that sound like they were thrown together at the last minute to record an album, Chickenfoot sounds like a band, tight and in sync with each other but more importantly they sound like everyone in the band actually wants to be there and that is a great thing because it could mean more albums to come and I for one am definitely looking forward to hearing what else these guys can bring us.
Rating: Out of 10
Track Listing:
1. Avenida Revolution
2. Soap On A Rope
3. Sexy Little Thing
4. Oh Yeah
5. Runnin’ Out
6. Get It Up
7. Down The Drain
8. My Kinda Girl
9. Learning To Fall
10. Turnin’ Left
11. Future Is The Past
Chickenfoot is:
Sammy Hagar – Vocals
Joe Satriani – Guitars
Michael Anthony – Bass
Chad Stewart – Drums
0 Video Double Shot – King Kobra & Jean Beauvoir
Other than blonde hair and movie soundtracks I’m not sure King Kobra and Jean Beauvoir have much else in common but I felt compelled to share these videos with everyone this week. First off we have King Kobra with “Never Say Die (Iron Eagle)” from the Iron Eagle Soundtrack and their own “Thrill of A Lifetime” album. I would venture a guess this is King Kobra’s best known song.
“Feel The Heat” was first released on Sylvester Stallone’s “Cobra” soundtrack followed by Beauvoir’s own “Drums Along The Mohawk” album. Along with producing and writing for such groups as Kiss, the Ramones, the Pretenders, and John Waite, he has also fronted the bands Voodoo X and Crown of Thorns. Although he is not well known in the U.S. Beauvoir is a huge star in Europe and the rest of the world.
1 Wildstreet – S/T (Release Year – 2009)
Wildstreet was formed in 2006 by front man Eric Jayk and guitarist Jimmie Marlowe but they soon added bassist Ali Hassan, drummer Brian Beck and lead guitarist Keith Robert to complete their lineup. When I listen to Wildstreet’s debut E.P. I am reminded of two sayings one being “All That’s Old Is New Again” and the other is “Looks Are Deceiving”. Going strictly by the band’s look one could think these New Yorkers overdosed on Hanoi Rocks and Guns ‘N Roses but once you start listening to Wildstreet you realize it was Def Leppard’s Pyromania and Hysteria the band OD’d on. Even the production sounds so much like a “Mutt” Lange record it is almost impossible to believe the band produced the album themselves.
Their debut is chock full of Leppardesque anthems and power ballads ready made for stadiums and radio if radio actually played this type of hard rock. “Wanna Get It On” starts everything off sounding like a mix of “Let It Rock” and “Pour Some Sugar On Me” right away you will find yourself wanting to sing along Eric and the guys and Brian Beck’s drums sound absolutely massive. “Hard On You” is another huge sounding anthem tailor made for arenas with hand claps, terrific gang vocals, a great solo by Keith Robert and massive drums by Beck once again. “For So Long” is a power ballad that would make Joe Elliott and the boys proud once again this track is filled with hand claps, massive background vocals just a great sing a long track. “Soldier of Love” sounds like it could have came out of the “Pyromania” recording sessions, Jayk sounds more like Joe Elliott on this song than any other song on the album. “Midnight Gypsy” is a solid instrumental track which you don’t see alot anymore especially from bands that fall into the pop metal/hard rock category. “Open Up Your Eyes” is a fantastic mid tempo rock ballad absolutely fantastic lighters and cell phones will definitely be lighting up the room when this song is played live.
Unfortunately this album doesn’t close as strong as it started out and in the end it brings the album down a notch “the Fist of Fury” is absolutely ridiculous why this was even put on this album is beyond me. This song by itself almost killed the album for me which is saying a lot considering how much I love the first six songs. The band covers Mott The Hooples “All The Young Dudes” which is a decent cover but one that has been done by just about everyone. I would have much rather heard another original song as long as it wasn’t in the vein of “the Fist of Fury”. The album closes out with an acoustic version of “Soldier of Love” which is pretty cool but I liked the plugged in version better.
If I rated the album on the first six songs I would give it a 7 but the last three songs really hurt this album. I am still looking forward to the band releasing a full album and see what they can do with that. Wildstreet definitely has the chops and talent to make some noise and twenty years ago at least four of the songs on here would have went straight to the top of the charts but in today’s day and age I guess we’ll have to see. As long as they stay away from songs like “the Fist of Fury” I will be willing to tag along for the ride. You can check out Wildstreet at www.myspace.com/wildstreet and you buy their E.P. at www.retrospectrecords.com/products/wildstreet.html# Wildstreet is also available on Amazon and I-Tunes.
Rating:Out of 10
Track Listing:
1. Wanna Get It On

2.Hard On You
3. For So Long
4. Soldier Of Love
5. Midnight Gypsy
6. Open Up Your Eyes
7. The Fist of Fury
8. All the Young Dudes
9. Soldier of Love (Acoustic)
Wildstreet is:
Eric Jayck – Lead Vocals, Guitar
Jimmie Marlowe – Guitar
Keith Robert – Lead Guitar
Ali Hassan – Bass
Beck – Drums
0 Badmouth’s “Rivethead” E.P. now available
Swedish rockers Badmouth have released a 3 song e.p. “Rivethead”, available from CDbaby.com, tracks included are “Rivethead” ,which is an amazing song, along with the band covering two classics Pat Benatar’s “Heartbreaker” that Badmouth recorded and released earlier this year, and a very cool cover of the Beatles “Hey Bulldog”. Badmouth was recently selected as one of six winners to play at the Arvika Festival this summer. You can keep up to date with all things Badmouth by visiting them at www.myspace.com/badmouthswe
0 New Video – “One Out of Ten” – the Poodles
“One Out of Ten” is the newest release from Swedish rockers the Poodles latest album titled “Clash of the Elements”, which was released on May 20th in Europe. You can order “Clash of the Elements” by visiting the Poodles website at www.poodles.se or their myspace page at www.myspace.com/thepoodles
“Clash Of The Elements” track listing:
01. Too Much Of Everything
02. Caroline
03. Like No Tomorrow
04. One Out Of Ten
05. I Rule The Night
06. Give Me A Sign
07. Sweet Enemy
08. 7 Days & 7 Nights
09. Pilot Of The Storm
10. Can’t Let You Go
11. Don’t Rescue Me
12. Heart Of Gold
13. Dream To Follow
14. Wings Of Destiny
2 FASTER PUSSYCAT, BULLETBOYS, BANG TANGO To Team Up For ‘Summer Rock Fest’ Tour
FASTER PUSSYCAT, BULLETBOYS and BANG TANGO will team up for the Summer Rock Fest tour in July/August. Exact cities and dates will be announced soon.
FASTER PUSSYCAT‘s current lineup is as follows:
Taime Downe – Vocals
Michael Thomas – Guitar
Danny Nordahl – Bass
Xristian Simon – Guitar
Chad Stewart – Drums
BULLETBOYS‘ long-awaited new album, “10c Billionaire”, was recently mixed and mastered by producer/guitarist Brent Woods (VINCE NEIL,WILDSIDE). A summer release via Chavis Records is expected.
“10c Billionaire” was written by original founding member and flamboyant frontman Marq Torien. Having reinvented the band and composed one of the most sonically superb and relevant rock and roll records to date, the revitalized BULLETBOYS — featuring Torien, Ryche Green, Stephen Allan, and Tory S. — are a hard rock force majeure delivering non-stopmusic mayhem that is winning over new audiences with every performance.
BANG TANGO‘s latest album, “From the Hip”, was released in October 2006 via Perris Records. The CD was engineered by Scott “Goody” Goodwine (HATEBREED, FLOTSAM AND JETSAM) and was mixed by Taz(CHERRY ST., THE ADDICTIONS, SPINNING CHAIN).
1 M3 Rock Festival Mini Video Concert
Here is a taste of some of the bands that will be on stage today at Columbia, Maryland’s Merriweather Post Pavilion for the M3 Rock Festival. Other bands scheduled to appear include Dokken, Keel, Bulletboys, and L.A. Guns among others. The festival will be headlined by Extreme, Ratt, and Twisted Sister.