07.29.05 (MusicPortal.com) Universal Music has announced the September 5th DVD premiere release of "The Police - Synchronicity Concert," a stunning live-in-concert live extravaganza filmed during the Atlanta, Georgia leg of their Synchronicity World Tour in November of 1983. Three additional songs are taken from their Montreal show in August of that same year: 'Demolition Man,' 'O My God' and 'Murder By Numbers.' As an additional feature, the new release also includes a rare interview with THE POLICE from their final concert on the Synchronicity World Tour (and the last-ever POLICE concert), which was in Melbourne, Australia in 1984. 21 years later, this spectacular concert has never sounded better. For the very first time on DVD, the audio has been remixed in 5.1 Surround Sound, and includes three different audio soundtracks including DTS, Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, and 2.0 Dolby Digital Stereo. Originally directed and edited by Kevin Godley and Lol Creme, this energetic and power-packed live concert brilliantly captures THE POLICE at the height of their success, when "Synchronicity" ruled the radio airwaves and the trio were one of the biggest bands in the world. The songs performed during the concert include their most memorable hit singles, including 'So Lonely,' 'Roxanne,' 'Message In A Bottle,' 'De Do Do Do De Da Da Da,' and 'Every Breath You Take,' plus several songs taken from the "Synchronicity album," including 'King Of Pain,' 'Wrapped Around Your Finger,' 'Walking In Your Footsteps,' 'Tea In The Sahara,' 'Oh My God' and 'Murder By Numbers.' "The Police - Synchronicity Concert" also boasts exclusive live performances filmed in multi-angle, including for the very first time 'Synchronicity II,' plus 'Don't Stand So Close To Me,' 'Invisible Sun,' and 'Roxanne.' In addition to the Synchronicity Concert Multi-Angle Tracks, DVD extras include previously unreleased concert footage taken from the "Synchronicity" concert in Montreal, Canada where THE POLICE perform 'Demolition Man' and 'Murder By Numbers.' The promotional trailer for the original theatrical release of "The Police - Synchronicity Concert" is also included here. Although "Synchronicity" would be THE POLICE's most commercially successful album, and lead to a sold-out tour (including a stop at New York's Shea Stadium), it would turn out to be the trio's fifth and final studio album and world tour. One of 1983's biggest singles, the haunting 'Every Breath You Take' is an obvious highlight, as well as the rare... [full story]

07.28.05 (AP) A collection of JOHN LENNON memorabilia valued by experts at more than $2 million will being auctioned in London later today. The sale includes youthful paintings and handwritten lyrics, jackets, eyeglasses and even furniture from the late former BEATLES member's home. The most valuable items have been gathered over 25 years by one anonymous American collector. Auctioneer Cooper Owen, a company that specializes in music and film memorabilia, says it constitutes "the most definitive collection of John Lennon memorabilia ever assembled." A Cooper Owen spokesman said the auction, which began in the evening, was expected to continue until late into the night. The centerpiece of the sale at London's Hippodrome nightclub is a page of hand-written lyrics to the song 'All You Need Is Love,' salvaged from JOHN LENNON's music stand after THE BEATLES' final TV appearance in 1967, estimated to have a value of between $870,000 and $1 million. Cooper Owen director Ted Owen said the manuscript was "the Holy Grail of Beatles lyrics." "It's probably one of the few remaining Beatles lyrics in private collectors' hands and one of the most important musical manuscripts in existence," Owen said. "It was the anthem of the peace movement ... the anthem of 1967." The sale included other items that loom large in the history of the 1960s. The Vox Continental organ that Lennon played during THE BEATLES' famous Shea Stadium concert in New York in 1965 is also up for auction, expected to fetch more than $350,000. The tunic of a World War I military band member, worn by JOHN LENNON for a 1966 Life magazine photo shoot - and a possible inspiration for the group's martial look on the cover of "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" - was valued at least $175,000. The bedspread from Lennon and Yoko Ono's 1969 Montreal "bed-in," embroidered with the message "all you need is love," carries an estimate of at least $53,000. While BEATLES memorabilia is among the most coveted by Rock collectors, past auctions have sometimes been disappointing. Last year, an autograph Lennon signed shortly before he was shot and killed outside his Manhattan apartment building in 1980 failed to reach its minimum price of $143,000 at a Cooper Owen auction. But Pete Nash, a memorabilia expert with the British Beatles Fan Club, said many of the items in Thursday's sale were special. "It's lovely, lovely stuff," Nash said. "There are some real museum pieces. It's not the usual run-of-the-mill memorabilia." He said the most expensive items, beyond the reach of most BEATLES collectors, would likely go to "about 20 heavy-duty collectors in the world who seem to have unlimited funds."
[WATCH]

07.26.05 (MusicPortal.com) LIL' KIM is set to reveal her new album "Naked Truth" on September 13th, when her eagerly anticipated fourth solo effort will hit the streets via Warner Music Group. LIL' KIM has already given her fans a first look at "Naked Truth" with the advance buzz track 'Shut Up,' which is currently lighting up radio mixshows across the country. The timely and provocative track finds LIL' KIM openly confronting her critics, especially those who spread gossip and rumors about her life: 'You ain't paying my bills, so you ain't sayin' nothing,' she raps in the song. 'Ain't keepin' it real then you need to stop frontin'... Get your facts straight or shut up bitch.' "Naked Truth" finds LIL' KIM collaborating with a line-up of some of today's hottest Hip-Hop producers, including Kanye West, Scott Storch, 7 Aurelius, Fredwreck (Snoop Dogg, Cypress Hill), Hot Runner (Eve, Cassidy) and Red Spyda. "Naked Truth" follows 2003's "La Bella Mafia," which made its Billboard 200 debut at an impressive #5. That collection included the chart-topping smash 'Magic Stick,' as well as the hit singles 'The Jump Off' and 'Thug Luv.' Though standing just under 5 feet tall, LIL' KIM possesses a presence and persona that looms well beyond her tiny frame. From her days as the feisty frontwoman of Brooklyn Rap collective JUNIOR M.A.F.I.A. -- playing "Bonnie" to The Notorious B.I.G.'s "Clyde" -- to her current status as Hip-Hop's Grammy-winning, fashion-forward "Queen Bee," LIL' KIM continues to effortlessly captivate, seduce, provoke, and entertain. Whether she's ripping it live onstage, working it on the runway, or turning heads on the red carpet, she -- as Nas said -- makes you look. Her thugged-out Betty Boop-like delivery on tracks such as 'Player's Anthem' and 'Get Money' helped propel JUNIOR M.A.F.I.A.'s 1995 RIAA gold-certified Big Beat/Atlantic Records debut, "Conspiracy," into the top 10 on the Billboard 200. In 1996, LIL' KIM unleashed her classic debut solo collection, "Hard Core." Featuring backing from producers such as Sean "Puffy" Combs, Jermaine Dupri and Prestige, the album quickly earned RIAA double-platinum certification, and confirmed the brazen and controversial singer as one of the up-and-coming artists of Hip-Hop. 2000's "The Notorious K.I.M." saw LIL' KIM's star continue to rise as she graced the covers of such magazines as The Source, XXL, Interview, and Vibe. In 2001, LIL' KIM teamed with Christina Aguilera, Pink, Mya and Missy Elliott for a blockbuster remake of the song 'Lady Marmalade.' That track's massive success led to LIL' KIM winning her first-ever Grammy Award, for "Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals."
[LISTEN]

07.25.05 (MusicPortal.com) A brand new compilation of KRAFTWERK covers entitled "Trans Slovenia Express - Vol. 2" has just been released via Mute Recordings. The long-awaited follow-up to 1994's critically acclaimed "Trans Slovenia Express" includes versions of KRAFTWERK songs by Slovenian artists including LAIBACH. "Trans Slovenia Express - Vol. 2" includes fourteen remakes of songs by what many would consider to be the first mainstream Electronic band, KRAFTWERK - truly pioneers of their genre. Anyone who has some knowledge about the German group would probably be familiar with their classic "Trans Europe Express" album, which was released in 1977. As on "Trans Slovenia Express" KRAFTWERK classics are once again reinterpreted by artists from Slovenia, a small country in the heart of Europe, on the new album. Some of the artists are newcomers, others have been around since the KRAFTWERK days. First up on "Trans Slovenia Express - Vol. 2" are Industrial music pioneers LAIBACH. Their contribution to the album is unique in the sense that the track they perform is not a straight remake. It is loosely based on that band's own song, 'Brother Of Mine,' arranged as though KRAFTWERK themselves would have remixed it. After LAIBACH and their Techno Pop sound, the album continues with a Pop duo called SILENCE, who chose UK singer Anne Clark ('Sleeper In Metropolis') to sing guest vocals on the KRAFTWERK track, 'Hall Of Mirrors.' "Trans Slovenia Express - Vol. 2" continues on a harder note with SIDDHARTA, the biggest Slovenian Rock act, who recently signed a deal with Ministry Of Sound as their first ever Rock act, and who sell out stadium concerts regularly in their home country. THE STROJ (pronounced "Stroy") are a crew of Metal percussionists in the best tradition of TEST DEPARTMENT or LES TAMBOURES DU BRONX, so the song 'Metal On Metal' was an obvious choice for them. OCTEX and MOOB are two laptop artists who came up with very inventive minimalistic Dub/House versions of KRAFTWERK songs that also work well in clubs. So does TORUL's old-school Electro version of 'It's More Fun To Compute,' Trance versions of 'Metropolis' by SEQUAN and 'Sex Object' by iTURK Featuring MAYA, ALENIA's Techno/House version of 'Home Computer' and a Drum 'N' Bass version of 'Metropolis' by O.S.T. LARA-B, a well-known Slovenian female Rock singer does a heavy Rock version of 'Hall Of Mirrors' while ROZMARINKE, a popular all-female string quartet, do a unique remake of 'Radioactivity.' Lastly, 'Mitternacht' by BAST is the only song here to pay homage to pre-'Autobahn' era KRAFTWERK. Each of the 14 tracks here are all previously unreleased, and are exclusive to this album.

07.22.05 (MusicPortal.com) "Road To Rouen," the fifth album from SUPERGRASS, will be released by Capitol Records on September 27th. The album signals the beginning of a new chapter for the pioneering Brit-Pop combo, comprised of vocalist/guitarist Gaz Coombes, bassist Mick Quinn, keyboardist Rob Coombes and drummer Danny Goffey. After releasing "Supergrass Is 10: The Best Of '94-04" last Fall to the delight of fans and critics alike ("There is not one band in the last 15 years with a collection of singles as fresh, sparky and consistent as the songs here," said NME of the 21-track retrospective, while Q, Uncut and Mojo each gave it four stars), the quartet repaired to a Normandy barn, which they converted into a barebones recording studio, and turned their attention to making the first album of their next decade. With "Road To Rouen," the ghosts of the past have been exorcised and (sort of) laid to rest: SUPERGRASS are ready to face their future, firmly shaking off their old frivolous, cheeky image. There are surprises at every turn, particularly for those who expect them to be doing buzzsaw Pop ten years after they reinvented the style with their debut album, "I Should Coco," which was followed up in 1997 by "In It For The Money," 1999's "Supergrass" (a.k.a. "The X-Ray Album") and their most recent studio offering, "Life On Other Planets." In a very positive way, "Road To Rouen" is all over the map instrumentally. A zither, a ukulele, Led Zep-style Psychedelic Folk, brass, strings -- even the model of drum machine used by SLY & THE FAMILY STONE -- are all are put to intriguing use on the new album. "Road To Rouen" is about a journey. Going places, moving on, and growing up. "We've had some trying times over the last couple of years," reflects Gaz Coombes hesitantly, "and it changes the way you do things. It changed the way I wrote songs." SUPERGRASS recently played a series of shows in the UK, and will embark on an international acoustic tour shortly, after which they plan to tour the United States in early 2006. SUPERGRASS formed in 1994 after failing miserably in the job market as factory worker (Gaz Coombes), plunger/dishwasher (Mick Quinn), astrophysicist (Robert Coombes) and dinner lady (Danny Goffey).
[WATCH]

07.22.05 (MusicPortal.com) Ridge Records is set to release the RUNRIG album, "Runrig - 30 Year Journey," on August 29th. If there is one band who encapsulate the very best of Scotland - its poetry, its passion, and its spirit - that band is RUNRIG. For the last three decades, they have uniquely combined their Gaelic roots with a mainstream Rock sensibility that has won them countless fans across the globe. Formed 32 years ago on the Isle Of Skye, RUNRIG are notable for both their extensive line-up over the years and their many achievements. They have had chart hits and won awards, but they have always stayed true to their roots. Traditionalists and pioneers, RUNRIG have created music that is emotional, passionate, accomplished and unforgettable. Not surprisingly, the band have had some notable milestones along the way. Some little known facts about the group include the following: RUNRIG were the first Rock band ever to play on the banks of Loch Lomond and they were also the first Rock band to play Edinburgh Castle. They're also the only band in history to have had a Top 20 hit in Gaelic. Their new lead singer, successful Canadian solo artist Bruce Guthro, comes from New Breton Island, Nova Scotia and -- joining the band in 1998 -- has commuted from Canada to Scotland ever since. Two previous members of RUNRIG have also left to pursue political careers, while ex-keyboardist Peter Wishart is still a member of the House Of Commons. Former lead vocalist Donnie Munro was also Rector of Edinburgh University. RUNRIG have also won countless awards throughout the years, topped the video charts in different decades, had various Top 10 albums including "Amazing Things" (which went to No. 2), and also recently won a "Lifetime Achievement" award at the Nordoff Robbins Tartan Clef Awards. The RUNRIG song 'Running To the Light' was chosen by Houston as the wake-up call on the ill-fated Columbia Space Shuttle, as astronaut Dr. Laurel Clark was a huge fan of the band. "Runrig - 30 Year Journey" is a "Best Of" compilation that embraces all the high points on that singular path that the band have taken over the last four decades. Featuring 16 tracks in all, the songs on "30 Year Journey" draw on the spiritual, political and historical themes that surround them. With tracks featuring both current lead vocalist Guthro as well as ex-lead singer Munro, the compilation is a true celebration of the music that's been performed by RUNRIG over the last 30-plus years. Already a No. 1 hit in Denmark, "Runrig - 30 Year Journey" encapsulates the many moods and memories of one of Scotland's most important bands of yesterday and today.
[LISTEN]

07.21.05 (MusicPortal.com) Singer/songwriter KT TUNSTALL's debut album, "Eye To The Telescope," has just been acknowledged with one of the most prestigious musical accolades available within the UK - a nomination for this year's Mercury Music Prize. This stands Tunstall shoulder-to-shoulder with other artists such as COLDPLAY, BLOC PARTY, MIA & KAISER CHIEFS in contention for the award - the winner of which will be announced on September 6th. Critical praise for "Eye To The Telescope" has been substantial from the moment it was released in the UK on January 10th. It's been a year of opportunity and great timing for Scotland-based KT TUNSTALL. Early on came a last minute offer to perform on UK music platform "Later With Jools Holland," on which she pulled no punches and defiantly and confidently debuted both her musical talent and album lead single 'Black Horse And The Cherry Tree' on national TV. From there, Tunstall began to seize her moment in the spotlight. In addition to her UK dominance, KT TUNSTALL is also fast gaining an international presence as a Top 20 seller in France, while experiencing Top 20 airplay in countries like Ireland, Italy, Brazil and Chile as well. "Eye To The Telescope" has also been released in Australia, Singapore, Mexico and other territories recently, the album currently standing just shy of the 500,000 mark in sales worldwide. EMI Music Canada have also just announced that they will release the album in the Canadian territories on September 20th. Tunstall will be in Canada over early August to cover promotional media, and perform an exclusive, invite-only solo showcase at The Drake Underground on August 8th in Toronto. A confirmed appearance on Canada AM has also been locked in for August 9th, while Montreal will host Tunstall in market August 9th-10th. Canadian tour dates are also expected to follow in the coming months. KT TUNSTALL is a songstress with Chinese blood, a Scottish heart, great legwarmers and a cool name. "Well, it's got a bit more attitude than Kate, which just says farmer's daughter to me," she laughs. She celebrates classic singer-songwriting in the tradition of Rikki Lee Jones, Carole King and FLEETWOOD MAC with an articulate, accessible, immediate brew of rootsy sass, wistful quandary and after-hours atmosphere. The latest in a line of outstanding contemporary Scottish artists including TEXAS, TEENAGE FANCLUB and THE BETA BAND, KT TUNSTALL's unique perspective offers a rare emotionally connecting intensity through it's gripping lyrical bite and heartfelt melody. She grew up in the... [full story]
[LISTEN]

07.19.05 (AP) Singer ASHANTI was accused in a New York civil court case on Monday of abandoning her first music producer when he asked for money after she became commercially successful, an allegation she denied on the witness stand. Genard Parker was an established music producer when ASHANTI, then just 16 years old, approached him in 1996 for help, Parker's attorney Jasmine Khalili said. "This case is about abandoning the people that help us succeed," Khalili charged in opening statements in U.S. District Court in Manhattan, where the contractual dispute between the two parties is currently being heard by a jury. Khalili said Parker originally helped ASHANTI in his Bronx home-based studio for eight months when she was "just another teenage girl with a nice voice." The vocalist, who then lived in Glen Cove, on Long Island, eventually signed with a record company, and Parker released her from his contract with the understanding that he could produce two songs on her first album and receive a $50,000 advance plus royalties, Khalili said. Two highly successful records that have sold a total of more than 6 million copies means ASHANTI could owe Parker millions of dollars in royalties, the lawyer said. "She has never paid him, and, just as importantly, she has never thanked him," Khalili said. On the witness stand, ASHANTI, now 24, denied that Parker played an influential role in her career. She said praise she tossed his way on a videotape made in 1997 to help promote her efforts for a recording contract was "a little bit of hype." "I was excited," she said. "I thought I was getting a record deal." ASHANTI's lawyer, Harry Stokes, said it was only after the success of the second album that Parker claimed his contract was violated and demanded money. Parker, now residing in Ellenwood, Georgia, testified that ASHANTI was pleased with the work he did for her in 1996 and 1997. The trial is expected to last three days, though the singer, whose full name is Ashanti Douglas, left after her testimony for Vancouver, British Columbia, where she is currently working on a movie. ASHANTI won a Grammy Award in 2003 for "Best Contemporary R&B Album" for her self-titled debut album, "Ashanti," which landed the #1 spot on both the Billboard Top 200 and R&B album charts - selling a whopping 500,000 units in its first week alone. ASHANTI also made history by having her first three chart entries all land in the Top 10 of The Billboard Hot 100 at the same time, the first female to accomplish that feat, and second only to THE BEATLES to do so.
[WATCH]

07.19.05 (MusicPortal.com) Rushmore Records recording artists HOUSTON CALLS will release their debut full-length album, "A Collection Of Short Stories," on August 2nd. In "A Collection of Short Stories," an indelible cast of characters finds a hundred ways to escape a soulless life: some by Amtrak, some by the bottle, and some with a scrawled note of farewell. But the authors of this collection are no Pulitzer Prize wannabes. Rather, HOUSTON CALLS are a New Jersey-based group that prove to be fierce defenders of classic Pop melody as well as capable storytellers. Writing songs that mirror the short story genre came naturally. "Most of the songs follow a plot," says vocalist/lyricist Tom Keiger. "I like to tell stories of my experiences, mostly in the third person, so I can sit back and relate as well." Produced by Ed Rose (The Get Up Kids, Motion City Soundtrack, Spitalfield), "A Collection Of Short Stories" was recorded in Eudora, Kansas - population: 5,000. "The only good thing in Eudora is the studio and the Chinese-Mexican restaurant," laughs Keiger. "But working with Ed was awesome, and incredibly beneficial to an up-and-coming band like us. He emits a great, comfortable vibe and provides a laid back, yet challenging, work environment. He helped us solidify all of our ideas, and was very willing to work with us extensively on each song to reach an amazing final product." " "We poured our hearts into this," adds HOUSTON CALLS keyboardist Richard "Okie" Okamoto. "Every piece adds up, and everyone's love of music shines through." Musically, the band draw on a sunny Pop/Punk style to underscore the storylines, but the lyrics are invariably pointed, poetic and deep. Though Keiger wrote most of the thought-provoking words on "A Collection Of Short Stories," Okamoto contributed three of his own songs. HOUSTON CALLS pride themselves in their songwriting process, as it is a collective effort. Overall, "A Collection Of Short Stories" shimmies and shines with electrified keys and punched-up drumming that whip the eleven tracks on the album into an infectious Pop/Rock frenzy. Stand out tracks include the playful 'Exit, Emergency,' the heartbreaker 'Amtrak Is For Lovers' and 'Bob And Bonnie,' an homage to Tom Keiger's parents. "It was one of the most rewarding points in my career as a musician to finally document a few years of thoughts and ideas into a full length CD," adds Keiger. HOUSTON CALLS previously released two EPs independently and toured extensively across the U.S., honing their skills before signing to Rushmore Records in 2004.
[FREE MP3]

07.15.05 (MusicPortal.com) Celebrating the success of her Top Ten Gold selling album "Voice," ALISON MOYET has for the first time ever recorded a commercial version of her sold out "One Blue Voice" UK live concert tour. The concert was filmed just last month on June 6th in front of a specially invited audience at The Hospital in Covent Garden, London. "One Blue Voice" the DVD, will be released by Sanctuary Visual Entertainment on September 26th. Performing with an eight-piece band including a string quartet, the material includes tracks from Moyet's "Voice," and songs from the acclaimed Brit-nominated album, "Hometime." Classics such as 'Should I Feel That It's Over,' 'Alfie,' 'Only You' and 'That Old Devil Called Love,' all of which have never been recorded live before, are also presented here as exclusive bonus tracks within the DVD extras, which also include an interview interspersed with performance extracts and a photo gallery. The concert setlist includes a moving rendition of Michel Legrand's 'Windmills Of Your Mind' and the Elvis Costello composition, 'Almost Blue.' 'Wraggle Taggle Gypsies' lifts the tempo, and the Baroque classic 'Dido's Lament' showcases Moyet's natural vocal strength and ability. The capacity to present this exclusive concert in both Stereo and 5.1 Surround Sound, allows fans of ALISON MOYET to enjoy this intimate performance in the comfort of their own home, as the "One Blue Voice" DVD captures an exceptional talent in spectacular form. Superbly stylized and beautifully lit, ALISON MOYET proves without a doubt that she still has the depth and purity to her voice millions of fans worldwide have come to adore. She's been a card-carrying punk, a Blues shouter, and a dance-floor diva. She's taken one of the most expressive voices heard in pop music in many a year and used it to vividly depict the depths of despair and the celestial joys of love. In short, ALISON MOYET, revered singer/songwriter, has again and again pushed the limits of Pop music ... and she's not about to stand still. Born in Billericay, Essex, Alison grew up in Basildon and left school at sixteen largely unqualified. She spent time as a shop worker before embarking on a piano tuning course which she had to abort in the second year as the single, 'Only You,' became a worldwide hit. This new found fame was alongside Electronic music innovator Vince Clarke in the band YAZOO (a.k.a. "YAZ" in North America). Together, they redefined Dance music, merging the cold soundscapes of synthesized music with sweet Soul. However, after two albums and a Brit Award for "Best New Band," it was... [full story]
[LISTEN]

07.14.05 (AP) Although bassist/vocalist ROGER WATERS dabbled with operatic themes in PINK FLOYD's "The Wall," he's never written a traditional opera - until now. Waters will debut "Ca Ira (There Is Hope)," his opera about the French Revolution, September 27th with a two-disc CD and DVD project via Sony Music. Though the production includes baritone Bryn Terfel and other Classical music veterans, Waters believes "Ca Ira" might spark some skepticism from the Classical music world. "I'm in some state of trepidation because I feel that I'm putting my head on the chopping block," he told The Associated Press in an interview Tuesday. "It's actually very melodic and it's unashamedly emotional. So, if the intellectuals of the modern opera world are catty about it, so be it. I fully expect some resistance. There will be a lot of, 'Who does he think he is?'" The idea for the opera came in 1989, around the time of the revolution's bicentennial, when songwriter Etienne Roda-Gil approached ROGER WATERS with his libretto, illustrated by Roda-Gil's wife, Nadine. "He wanted to know if he could use my old songs," Waters said. "I looked at it and sort of fell in love with it ... after six weeks I had a demo that was over two hours long." The death of Roda-Gil's wife from leukemia halted work on the project, but Waters and Roda-Gil eventually began working together again. Waters wrote both French and English versions of the opera. He said the themes of "Ca Ira" are especially relevant today. "It's not just a piece about the French Revolution, it's about revolution in a much broader sense, and it's about the capacity that human beings have for personal change," Waters said. "The piece is an exultation and an encouragement to those of us who believe the human race can discover its humanity and its capacity for empathy to the point where it may be possible for us at some point to guarantee the basic human rights of the individual (around the world)." "Ca Ira" will be performed in concert in Rome in November, but ROGER WATERS' ultimate goal is to have it produced by an opera company. As for his Rock career, Waters, 61, is working on new album. But those hoping for a PINK FLOYD project after the group's reunion at the Live 8 concert in London will be disappointed. "The chances of further developing with the Pink Floyd reunion are very slight," he said. "The Live 8 reunion couldn't have been better, it was terrific, I was really glad it happened, we got along famously and it was absolutely fine, but (guitarist) Dave (Gilmour) and I do have major musical, philosophical, political and artistic differences," he said with a laugh. "So for us to reconvene would probably not be the most brilliant idea."

07.13.05 (MusicPortal.com) Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the pond, CRAZY FROG is back. After four weeks at the No. 1 spot with his version of 'Axel F' (knocking off both COLDPLAY and U2 in the process) CRAZY FROG finally hopped off the top spot this past Sunday - though not before becoming an international phenomenon and producing the second biggest-selling single of 2005 behind Tony Christie. CRAZY FROG has now swapped his helmet for headphones and his waist coat for a Hawaiian shirt, as he takes to the decks to mix his version of Gershon Kingsley's 'Popcorn.' A massive international hit in 1972 for HOT BUTTER, the song reached No. 1 in Germany, where it sold more than 1 million copies while giving keyboard fanatics a temporary replacement for 'Chopsticks' along the way. Now, 33 years later, CRAZY FROG has brought it's bang up to date with production and mixes courtesy of Germany's BASS BUMPERS. The CRAZY FROG 'Popcorn' ringtone is already proving incredibly popular on the Jamster website, with predictions that it could even rival the popularity of the artist's 'Axel F' ringtone. 'Popcorn' will be released on August 8th, and will be accompanied by a CGI video created by Kaktus Films. However, if you just can't wait that long for your next installment, CRAZY FROG is releasing his debut album previous to that on July 25th. Containing 16 audio tracks and 2 videos in total, the enhanced "Crazy Frog Presents Crazy Hits" CD sees the artist at the top of his game. In addition to the massive 'Axel F' and 'Popcorn,' CRAZY FROG adds his inimitable style to classics such as the theme to the television show "Dallas," FELIX's 'Don't You Want Me,' TECHNOTRONIC's 'Pump Up The Jam' and the "Pink Panther" theme. The "Crazy Frog Presents Crazy Hits" release will also include computer-specific features, such as CRAZY FROG screensavers and games. Track Listing: 1. Intro • 2. Axel F • 3. Popcorn • 4. Whoomp! (There It Is) • 5. 1001 Nights • 6. Bailando • 7. Don't You Want Me • 8. Dirty Frog • 9. Magic Melody • 10. Pump Up The Jam • 11. In The 80s • 12. Pinocchio • 13. Wonderland • 14. Dallas (Theme) • 15. The Pink Panther • 16. Crazy Sounds (Acapella) • 17. Axel F (Video) • 18. Popcorn (Video)
[WATCH]

07.12.05 (AP) FRANCES LANGFORD, whose steamy rendition of 'I'm In The Mood For Love' captivated soldiers when she was part of Bob Hope's USO tours during World War II, died Monday in Miami, Florida at the age of 92. Langford had been ill with congestive heart failure and died at her home in Jensen Beach, said her lawyer, Evans Crary Jr. Langford, a recording artist, radio star and actress from the 1930s to 1950s, joined Hope's troupe to boost wartime morale at military bases and hospitals in Great Britain, Italy, North Africa and the South Pacific. She also entertained new generations of soldiers in Korea and Vietnam. Even with her hair swept up in a bandanna, the 5-foot-1 singer was a glamorous vision of home and became known as the "Sweetheart Of The Fighting Fronts." "I'm In The Mood For Love" was written specifically for Langford for her role in the 1935 movie, "Every Night At Eight." FRANCES LANGFORD appeared in 30 Hollywood movies, including "Broadway Melody,""Yankee Doodle Dandy" and "The Hit Parade." She played herself in her final film, 1954's "The Glenn Miller Story." She was also known for her role as insufferable wife "Blanche," whom she played opposite Don Ameche on the popular 1940s radio comedy, "The Bickersons." She recalled in interviews decades later that entertaining the troops "was the greatest thing in my life." "We were there just to do our job, to help make them laugh and be happy if they could," Langford told The Associated Press in January of 2002. "She was a charming person, very warm-hearted," said Crary, who had known her for more than 70 years. "She was very interested in other people, and appreciative of their interest in her." Born in Citrus County, Florida in April 1913 and raised in Lakeland, FRANCES LANGFORD was discovered by bandleader Rudy Vallee when he was in Florida for a performance, and he invited her to be a guest on his radio program. After a brief stint in the Broadway musical "Here Goes The Bride" in 1931, she moved to Hollywood, where she appeared on Louella Parsons' radio show "Hollywood Hotel" and began to appear in movies. She was singing on Bob Hope's "Pepsodent Show" when he held his first military program at March Field in Riverside, California in 1941. The response was so positive he continued broadcasting from training bases and asked Langford to join him. Soon there were enough soldiers overseas to bring his variety show to them. FRANCES LANGFORD also wrote a daily newspaper column, "Purple Heart Diary," about her war experiences, and later starred in a movie of the same name.

07.11.05 (MusicPortal.com) The upcoming release of "Chaos And Creation In The Back Yard" on September 12th, PAUL McCARTNEY's 20th studio recording since the 1970 breakup of THE BEATLES, marks an end to a nearly four-year hiatus since his last studio recording, 2001's platinum-certified "Driving Rain." The new 13-track album is co-produced by Nigel Godrich (Radiohead, Travis and Beck) and McCartney, and was recorded in London and Los Angeles over the course of the past two years. Its release coincides with the September 16th launch of PAUL McCARTNEY's all new 37-city "US" Tour, his fastest-selling concert tour ever. "Chaos And Creation In The Back Yard" is a return to the basics for McCartney. The album successfully fuses his songwriting talents with his underrated musicianship. In fact, McCartney is credited with playing the majority of the instruments on the album (including less traditional ones including the block flute, harmonium and flugelhorn), which is somewhat reminiscent of his first solo album, 1970's "McCartney," on which he was credited with playing all of the instruments. "Chaos And Creation In The Back Yard" is a mix of up-tempo, piano-driven songs such as 'Fine Line' and 'Promise To You Girl,' and more introspective tracks such as 'At The Mercy,' 'Too Much Rain' and 'Riding To Vanity Fair.' One of the highlights is a track entitled, 'Jenny Wren,' which McCartney describes as "the daughter of 'Blackbird,'" as well as 'Follow Me,' which McCartney debuted at The Glastonbury Festival while on his '04 Summer European Tour. But "Chaos And Creation In The Back Yard" would not have been either if not for the suggestion of legendary BEATLES producer Sir George Martin. Familiar with Nigel Godrich's credentials and his published desire to work with an established artist, McCartney made the call that finally put the two together in the studio. The collaboration seemed an unlikely one, and thus the rumors began. "I did not want to rush this album," said McCartney, who despite repeated inquiries, touring commitments and pressure from his record label, managed to maintain his focus. "I think it was worth the wait though. The music became more interesting over time, and I'm really proud of what we did." "We really made a lot of it up as we went along," added McCartney. "I'd try something, and if it didn't work I'd try something else until it did. It was like making a go-cart in the backyard." "When Paul and I got together we had a common goal," says Godrich. "We wanted to make a great album that was true to Paul. I think that's exactly what we did."

07.11.05 (AP) SLIM THUG is already a "Goliath" of sorts on the Houston, Texas Rap scene, but it has nothing to do with his 6-foot-6, 265-pound frame. The skyscraping rapper, who's sold enough records independently to earn regional renown, a huge suburban home and a fleet of luxury cars, now has his eye on conquering the rest of the world with his major-label debut, "Already Platinum," which is being released tomorrow via Star Trak Entertainment. The album combines his boastful rhymes and smooth baritone with slick production from THE NEPTUNES and a cadre of big-name guest stars, including Lil Jon and Ludacris. "I think I covered the whole thing with satisfying the Texas people and other people," he said during an interview in his 6,000-square-foot house. "If a person ain't really into the straight up Texas slowed-down type of music, I got other type of music on there too that I'm sure can reach them." SLIM THUG, whose real name is Stayve Thomas, says he gained the first part of his Rap moniker because he was beanpole skinny as a teenager. He added "thug" to it, he said, because of his braids and gold teeth. The title of his album might seem arrogant, but SLIM THUG insists that it's simply a testament to his independent success. Major labels have been wooing him since 2001, but selling records through his own Boss Hogg Outlawz label was so lucrative that he had no use for a deal, Slim said. "The money they was offering us, it wasn't adding up to what we was making independent," he said, adding that he has sold more than 300,000 copies of his three album releases and numerous mixtapes - and makes $8 per album sold. "It's like we got a big state right here and we got Louisiana too," the singer says. "That's a lot of people. That's a lot of different retail stores, and you can make a lot of money off of that alone." The fruits of that labor are evident throughout his spacious home, which overlooks a man-made lake and includes an outdoor kitchen, a theater room and a recording studio. The garage houses his Rolls-Royce Phantom, BMW 760Li and personalized Chopper motorcycle. Seven other cars dot the driveway, but he can't drive any of them. "I have too..." [full story]
[LISTEN]

07.07.05 (MusicPortal.com) SEAN PAUL is putting the finishing touches on his upcoming new album, entitled "The Trinity." He's spent the last 6 months hard at work in the studio recording the album, which is due for release in October via Atlantic Records. The first single from "The Trinity," 'We Be Burnin,' will be issued to radio at the end of the month. SEAN PAUL has become a household name worldwide for Reggae, Hip-Hop, and Pop music fans since the 2002 release of his album "Dutty Rock." Since he dropped his breakthrough single 'Gimme The Light' from that release, he has gone on to become a platinum-selling artist in the UK, Ireland, Italy, Japan and dozens of other countries. Early on as a Dancehall music DJ, SEAN PAUL began scoring hit singles in Jamaica starting in 1996, and has since attracted American attention with his appearance on the soundtrack to Hype Williams' "Belly" (along with Mr. Vegas and DMX) and his 1999 hit, 'Hot Gal Today.' Born Sean Paul Henriques on January 8th, 1973, the multi-ethnic artist (his parents have Portuguese, Chinese, and Jamaican ancestry) grew up comfortably in St. Andrew, Jamaica, his mother a renowned painter. Although his education was enough to land a prosperous career, Dancehall music remained SEAN PAUL's first love, particularly crafting rhythm tracks. He became a DJ after he began writing his own songs, patterning his style largely after Super Cat and finding a mentor in Don Yute. He also found early contacts in several members of Reggae band THIRD WORLD in 1993, which helped open up his music business connections. SEAN PAUL released his debut single, 'Baby Girl,' in 1996, which proved a significant success, leading to further regional hits in Jamaica like 'Nah Get No Bly (One More Try),' 'Deport Them,' 'Excite Me,' 'Infiltrate' and 'Hackle Mi.' Several years later in America, SEAN PAUL would make an appearance at Summer Jam 2000 in New York City, after which his first stateside album, "Stage One (a collection of many of his previous hit singles and compilation cuts, plus a few brand-new songs), would be released by VP Records that Fall.
[WATCH]

07.07.05 (MusicPortal.com) Drive-Thru Records recording artists HELLOGOODBYE will hit the road with label-mates HOUSTON CALLS (Rushmore Records) on a two week tour of the West Coast. Both bands will join up with THE ROCKET SUMMER and JAMISON PARKER on a bill that kicks off in San Diego next Wednesday. Fans of HELLOGOODBYE can expect a full-length follow-up to their 2004 self-titled EP to be release in early 2006 via Drive-Thru Records. Currently, the band can be seen on MTV's "The Real World - Austin," on which they are featured in episodes centered around the city's famed South By Southwest Music Conference. In the meantime, Drive-Thru Records plans to release a HELLOGOODBYE DVD in October, featuring videos for each of the songs on their EP along with bonus performance footage, interviews and other hi-jinx. HOUSTON CALLS will also release their first full-length album at the beginning of next month, entitled "A Collection Of Short Stories." Produced by Ed Rose (The Get Up Kids, Motion City Soundtrack, Spitalfield) the album is an infectious Pop/Rock frenzy that shimmies and shines with electrified keys and punched-up drumming. Tour Dates: July 13th San Diego, CA [Soma] • July 14th Anaheim, CA [House Of Blues] • July 15th Hollywood, CA [Knitting Factory] • July 17th Orangevale, CA [The Boardwalk] • July 19th Seattle, WA [El Corazon] • July 20th Wenatchee, WA [Beacon Hill Garage] • July 21st Spokane, WA [Fat Tuesday's] • July 22nd Boise, ID [The Venue] • July 23rd Salt Lake City, UT [Lo-Fi Cafe] • July 26th Phoenix, AZ [Modified] • July 27th Tucson, AZ [Hotel Congress]
[LISTEN]

07.06.05 (AP) A federal judge declared a mistrial today in the NOTORIOUS B.I.G. wrongful death case, setting the stage for the Rap star's family to file a new lawsuit seeking to link his unsolved 1997 killing to a Los Angeles Police Department corruption scandal. Judge Florence-Marie Cooper's ruling came after she expressed concern at a hearing Tuesday that the LAPD had deliberately withheld evidence. Her clerk and attorneys on both sides confirmed the ruling; a written order was to be issued Thursday. There were only three days of testimony in the trial, which began June 21st. It was interrupted when an anonymous tip led to the discovery of large numbers of LAPD documents that hadn't been turned over to family attorneys. THE NOTORIOUS B.I.G., born Christopher Wallace, was only 24 years old when he was gunned down in 1997 while leaving a crowded late-night party at a Los Angeles museum. His family's lawsuit against the city and LAPD claimed corrupt LAPD officer David Mack arranged to have Wallace killed at the behest of Death Row Records founder Marion "Suge" Knight, and that LAPD officials covered up Mack's involvement. Family attorneys, who had requested either a mistrial or default, plan to refile the suit with new allegations against the LAPD and Mack's one-time partner Rafael Perez. The city had previously asked the judge to continue with the trial, arguing that any new documents largely revolved around hearsay. Assistant City Attorney Don Vincent said Wednesday he would still like "to try the case on the merits." Family attorney Perry Sanders Jr. said the family -- including Wallace's mother and widow, R&B singer Faith Evans -- didn't want to have to go through another trial but would do so. He said the case would now delve into a corruption scandal in the LAPD's Rampart division dating to the 1990s. "We're about to get to the bottom of Rampart," Sanders said. "We're about to peel the onion back to its rotten core." The withheld documents show in part that Kenny Boagni, who became friends with Rafael Perez in prison, told police in 2000 and 2001 that Perez acknowledged working security for Death Row on the night Wallace was killed. Boagni, who on Tuesday refused to be deposed without his attorney present, also told police that Perez said he called Mack on his cell phone before the shooting.

07.05.05 (MusicPortal.com) Never one to rest on his laurels, three-time Grammy-winner and multi-platinum-selling singer/guitarist JOHN MAYER has announced the formation of the JOHN MAYER TRIO. Joining Mayer in the new undertaking are bassist Pino Palladino (The Who, Jeff Beck) and drummer Steve Jordan (Bruce Springsteen, Rolling Stones). "Steve and I had been doing sessions together, and we were scheduled to do the Tsunami Aid benefit," JOHN MAYER recalls. "So Steve said, 'I know who we can get -- Pino Palladino.' I said, 'I'd love to play with Pino.' Pino came and we rehearsed Jimi Hendrix's 'Bold As Love' for the benefit. And something happened that I had hoped my entire life would happen, which is that thing about how a band got together for the first time, and everyone in the room just knew there was something special. When it became me, Steve and Pino, it became this whole different thing. That set me off on a writing streak. The challenge was, 'Here's this great band - now what are you gonna do with it?' So I went and wrote from a whole new place. So it became a band." The trio -- who subsequently appeared at the 2005 Grammy Awards ceremony performing a captivating rendition of Mayer's 'Daughters' -- will unveil their electrified sound on a Fall tour of North America, including three dates with the Rolling Stones, all of which is slated to kick off September 6th. Ray LaMontagne and Joss Stone have been confirmed as special guests on selected shows, while other support acts are still yet to be announced. "This trio tour isn't just an excuse to blow on the guitar," says JOHN MAYER. "It's an opportunity to present my fans with something live, in the sense of living now -- that classic palate. I want people to show up at the gig and see the amp lights glowing and hear that idling buzz. I just want to bring people that power." The new venture is a testament to the respect JOHN MAYER has for his fans, as he continues to provide them with new musical permutations in the knowledge that they'll willingly go wherever he chooses to take them. "I have a whole new appetite for something different," Mayer enthuses. "I want people to feel, and share, this excitement that I have."
[WATCH]

07.01.05 (AP) LUTHER VANDROSS, whose deep, lush voice provided the romantic backdrop on hits such as 'Here And Now' and 'Any Love' died today. He was 54. Vandross' style harkened back to a more genteel era of crooning, with songs that spoke to heartfelt emotions and gentle pillow talk rather than explicit sexuality. "I'm more into poetry and metaphor, and I would much rather imply something rather than to blatantly state it," the Grammy award winner once said. "You blatantly state stuff sometimes when you can't think of a a poetic way to say it." The singer died at John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Edison, N.J., said hospital spokesman Rob Cavanaugh. He did not release the cause of death but said in a statement that Vandross "never really recovered" from a stroke two years ago. Since the stroke in his Manhattan home on April 16, 2003, the R&B crooner stopped making public appearances - but amazingly managed to continue his recording career. In 2004, he captured four Grammys as a sentimental favorite, including best song for the bittersweet 'Dance With My Father.' Vandross, who was in a wheelchair at the time, delivered a videotaped thank you. "Remember, when I say goodbye it's never for long," said a weak-looking Vandross. "Because" - he broke into his familiar hit - "I believe in the power of love." Vandross also battled weight problems for years while suffering from diabetes and hypertension. He was arguably the most celebrated R&B balladeer of his generation. He made women swoon with his silky yet forceful tenor, which he often revved up like a motor engine before reaching his beautiful crescendos. Jeff O'Conner, Vandross' publicist, called his death "a huge loss in the R&B industry." O'Conner said he received condolence calls Friday from music luminaries such as Aretha Franklin, Patti LaBelle, Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones. Singer Roberta Flack, on tour in Japan, said she was mourning the loss of her friend of more than 20 years. "He was a musician who couldn't help but give you all he had," she said by telephone. "He was the kind of guy who was born to..." [full story]
[LISTEN]

[ Pop News: June 2005 ]
[ Top ]