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THE POLICE's 'Synchronicity Concert' Ready
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]
JOHN LENNON Memorabilia To Be Auctioned
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] EWIGKEIT's 'Conspiritus' Ready For Release
07.28.05
(MusicPortal.com)
EWIGKEIT have completed work on a new album for Earache Records, entitled "Conspiritus." Recorded and engineered by the group's main player James Fogarty, "Conspiritus" is due for release on August 29th. Conspiritus is an analysis of a hypothetical reality in which the world is controlled and manipulated by shadowy figures hiding behind multi-national corporations, the media machine, international banks and the global military. Over the ten tracks on the album, Fogarty's lyrical themes explore the ways in which the shadowy elite have managed to manipulate, enslave and exploit mankind; from slavery via debt through manufactured diseases, to control through the media -- all woven into a non-stop seamless cinematic journey in sound which encompasses the characteristics of Metal, Rock, and sample-based Electronic music -- as gratifying to devotees of PINK FLOYD as it could be to fans of the regimented grimace of KILLING JOKE. EWIGKEIT (pronounced "Ay-vig-kite," which means "eternity" in German) began life in Brighton, UK in the mid 90's as a studio-based project when a young James Fogarty became disillusioned playing in generic Thrash and Metal bands. He originally wanted to experiment with more Ambient and Progressive elements combined with a predominantly Metal-based mix. EWIGKEIT's early demos were a combination of heavy riffs morphed into layers of Ambience to unusual effect. A final demo, "Dwellers On The Threshold," was well-received, after which well-known NWOBHM label Neat Records released EWIGKEIT's debut album, "Battle Furies," in 1997. EWIGKEIT's Progressive leanings and Experimentation were seen as "different" at the time, but it still was not enough for Fogarty, who truly wanted to create a unique sound of his own. He developed his programming and keyboard skills for the release of 1999's "Starscape," while at the same time co-founding Black Metal band THE MEADS OF ASPHODEL, for whom he wrote, produced and recorded three demos, along with the albums "The Excommunication Of Christ" and "Jihad." Meanwhile, a third album from EWIGKEIT, entitled "Land Of Fog," was released via Metal Age Productions - by that time Neat Records having been bought out by Sanctuary Records more for the value of their back catalog than their roster of active artists. In 2004, EWIGKEIT signed a recording deal with Earache, who released the highly-regarded "Radio Ixtlan" (hailed by some as "a 'Dark Side Of The Moon' for the Death Metal generation") last July.
[LISTEN] FIREBALL MINISTRY Inks To Liquor & Poker
07.27.05
(MusicPortal.com)
Rock saviors FIREBALL MINISTRY have officially joined the roster of Liquor And Poker Music. The L.A.-based label will release the group's upcoming new album, "Their Rock Is Not Our Rock," on October 18. Produced by Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Velvet Revolver, Queens Of The Stone Age) and engineered by Mike Terry (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Ash, Halford), "Their Rock Is Not Our Rock" is the quartet's third full-length album, and their first featuring new bassist Johny Chow (Systematic, My Ruin). Its release will be preceded by a nationwide Adio Footwear-sponsored tour in support of CKY, which kicks off August 8 in San Diego. FIREBALL MINISTRY, which also features vocalist/guitarist Rev. James A. Rota II, guitarist Emily J. Burton and drummer John Oreshnick - broke ground on their "first church of rock 'n' roll" in the late 1990s. They soon developed a devoted cult following with their first two releases, "Ou Est La Rock? and 2001's "F.M.E.P.," as well as their memorable live performances. But it wasn't until 2003's "The Second Great Awakening," also produced by Raskulinecz, that the group's powerhouse Rock was granted a worldwide pulpit. In support of the critically acclaimed album, the band toured America with the likes of DIO, ANTHRAX, MOTORHEAD and ANDREW W.K., while European touring alongside BLUE OYSTER CULT, URIAH HEEP and CKY converted many overseas believers. FIREBALL MINISTRY have also toured and/or shared the stage with Modern Rock and Metal heavyweights like MASTODON, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, FEAR FACTORY, THE DATSUNS, DIMMU BORGIR, HATEBREED, ILL NINO, SLIPKNOT, SOILWORK, LAMB OF GOD, LIFE OF AGONY, SHADOWS FALL, SOULFLY and TURBONEGRO. "We are very happy to announce our joining forces with Liquor and Poker," Rota said. "We hope that you all will find the new album as enjoyable as you did the last one. If you don't, there's plenty of other shit out there masking itself as party rock, so gel up your hair and bust out the eyeliner. Nick and Mike have been forging a slab of stone so heavy that you better buy it its own 12-pack when you get it home. 'Their Rock Is Not Our Rock'...enough said." FIREBALL MINISTRY are currently featured on "Bam Margera Presents: Viva La Bands," a compilation album assembled by MTV skateboarding personality of "Jackass" and "Viva La Bam" fame. FIREBALL MINISTRY recently performed live during an in-store appearance alongside Margera at the Virgin Megastore on Sunset Blvd. in Los Angeles this past Monday afternoon.
[FREE MP3] HIDDEN IN PLAIN VIEW Zigzagging The U.S.
07.26.05
(MusicPortal.com)
As New Jersey Rockers HIDDEN IN PLAIN VIEW prepare to hit the road for their month-long headlining tour, the band has reached a significant career milestone: over one million plays on PureVolume.com. Only 16 artists have achieved a million plays on the site, which features over 152,000 artists. HIDDEN IN PLAIN VIEW now join THE STARTING LINE, FALL OUT BOY, UNDEROATH, and label-mates HELLOGOODBYE with over one million plays and counting. Workhorses of the Drive-Thru Records label, HIDDEN IN PLAIN VIEW have been touring pretty much non-stop since their February full-length debut, "Life In Dreaming." The band blew fans away on this Summer's Warped Tour and Bamboozle Festival, and have played over 130 shows this year for audiences in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, and Japan. HIDDEN IN PLAIN VIEW (vocalist Joe Reo, guitarist/vocalist Rob Freeman, guitarist Mike Saffert, bassist Chris Amato and drummer Spencer Peterson) are currently zigzagging across the U.S. playing live shows. Tour Dates:
08/18 New York, NY [The Knitting Factory] •
08/19 Lancaster, PA [Chameleon] •
08/20 Trenton, NJ [Sovereign Bank Arena] •
08/21 Philadelphia, PA [Theatre Of Living Arts] •
08/25 Ann Arbor, MI [Blind Pig] •
08/26 Chicago, IL [Metro] •
08/27 St. Louis, MO [Creepy Crawl] •
08/28 Lawrence, KS [The Granada] •
08/30 Denver, CO [Rock Island] •
08/31 Salt Lake City, UT [Lo Fi Cafe] •
09/01 Boise, ID [The Venue] •
09/02 Spokane, WA [Big Dipper] •
09/03 Seattle, WA [Bumbershoot Festival] •
09/04 Portland. OR [Loveland] •
09/06 San Francisco, CA [Slim's] •
09/07 Bakersfield, CA [Montgomery World Plaza] •
09/08 Las Vegas, NV [Jillian's] •
09/09 Los Angeles, CA [El Rey Theatre] •
09/10 Anaheim, CA [Chain Reaction] •
09/11 San Diego, CA [Epicentre] •
09/13 Tempe. AZ [The Clubhouse] •
09/14 Albuquerque, NM [Launchpad] •
09/15 Dallas, TX [Trees] •
09/16 Austin, TX [Emo's] •
09/17 Spring, TX [Java Jazz] •
09/18 Shreveport, LA [516 Soundstage] •
09/19 Lafayette, LA [Cafe Chi Alpha] •
09/20 Orlando, FL [The Social] •
09/21 St. Petersburg, FL [State Theatre] •
09/23 Atlanta, GA [Masquerade] •
09/24 Charlotte, NC [Tremont Music Hall] •
09/25 Falls Church, VA [Providence Recreation Center]
[LISTEN] NIGHTWISH Posts New Video For 'The Siren'
07.26.05
(MusicPortal.com)
NIGHTWISH have completed a new video for 'The Siren,' the third single from their platinum-selling album, "Once." The video goes a different route this time around, as it was created with mostly animated scenes. In other NIGHTWISH news, John Two-Hawks, a Native American hailing from Arkansas, will appear on the stage to perform the song 'Creek Mary's Blood' with the band during their upcoming concert at the Hartwall Arena in Helsinki, Finland on October 21st. 'Creek Mary's Blood' was composed by NIGHTWISH keyboardist Tuomas Holopainen, and is also featured on the "Once" album. On 'Creek Mary's Blood,' John Two-Hawks plays the flute and reads a poem translated to his native language. The song has never before been performed by its original recording lineup. "Once Upon A Tour 2004-2005" has also been selling out venues around the world for nearly 18 months now, and the group are now looking fowrward to ending the tour on their home turf. At more than 150 shows on all continents, more than one million spectators have now witnessed the band playing live this year. The Hartwall Arena show will be their last before NIGHTWISH take a lengthy break, estimated to last for at least 18 months, during which they will compose and record the follow-up to "Once." NIGHTWISH will be also filming the Helsinki show for future release as a full-length DVD. The director will be Antti Jokinen, who has previously worked with the group on the 'Nemo' video. Also appearing on the bill will be SONATA ARCTICA. The show will be recorded with 20 cameras, which is unheard of in Finland. But then again, not many bands have sold 2.5 million records and are able to present a spectacle featuring such an arsenal of sound, light, visuals and pyro effects. You may not know NIGHTWISH yet, but the Finnish Gothic Symphonic Metallers are a phenomenon throughout the rest of the world. On first listen, they seem to fall into the same genre as EVANESCENCE, LACUNA COIL and THE GATHERING, each female-fronted bands with Symphonic and Gothic overtones. But any other similarities end there. First of all, NIGHTWISH vocalist Tarja Turunen may be the only formally trained Opera singer in Metal these days, and her vocal prowess and range prove it. Listen closely, and you'll hear a group that's equally influenced by Opera, Classical music, Euro Metal, early Thrash and even Kate Bush. NIGHTWISH actually formed as an acoustic band in Kitee, Finland in 1997, though they quickly switched to an electric sound.
[WATCH] JOHN DENSMORE Wins Name Use Injunction
07.25.05
(Reuters)
The original drummer for THE DOORS has won a permanent injunction in Los Angeles, California preventing his ex-bandmates from using the Rock group's name while touring with a revamped version of the legendary 1960s act. The Los Angeles Superior Court order also requires keyboardist Ray Manzarek and guitarist Robby Krieger, who have been touring as THE DOORS OF THE 21ST CENTURY, to turn over all the profits earned by the new combo to the original DOORS partnership. The decision represents a major victory for DOORS drummer John Densmore, who told Reuters he was concerned that the band's legacy was being tarnished by its reincarnation as an oldies act. Manzarek and Krieger, along with British singer Ian Astbury (formerly of THE CULT) subbing for the late Jim Morrison, are currently touring Canada as headliners of the "Strange Days" festival, which also features such bands as STEPPENWOLF, THE YARDBIRDS and VANILLA FUDGE. "They're playing Doors songs and calling themselves the Doors of the 21st Century. I kinda think it's the 19th century, it's looking back," said Densmore, who plays original music with his own band, TRIBAL JAZZ. He teamed up with Morrison's estate -- represented by the parents of both Morrison and Morrison's late wife, Pamela Courson -- to sue Krieger and Manzarek in early 2003. Under an agreement struck in 1971, the year Morrison died in Paris, all three surviving members as well as the Morrison estate must sign off on any use of the DOORS name and logo. "I'm very pleased that, in my opinion, the legacy is preserved," added Densmore. "I never intended for Ray and Robby to stop playing -- they're great musicians. I hope Doors fans keep going to see them -- it's just the name is owned by me and them and the estate of Jim Morrison, and they kinda ran off with stolen property." Densmore estimated that Manzarek and Krieger have earned "millions and millions of dollars" on the road in recent years, more than the original band ever made. A management representative for Krieger and Manzarek in Los Angeles did not return a call. THE DOORS rose to fame in the late 1960s with such songs as 'Light My Fire' and 'Touch Me.' After Morrison, their provocative frontman and self-styled "lizard king" died of a heart attack, the band eventually folded. THE DOORS' mythology exploded with the 1980 publication of the DOORS biography "No One Here Gets Out Alive," and then with Oliver Stone's 1991 movie, "The Doors."
KRAFTWERK 'Trans Slovenia' Tribute #2 Here
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.
SUPERGRASS' Fifth Album Will Drop On 9/27
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] RUNRIG '30 Year Journey' Compilation Close
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] IGNITE Works A Worldwide Deal With Abacus
07.21.05
(MusicPortal.com)
Southern California's IGNITE, who hail from Orange County, have officially inked a worldwide deal with Abacus Recordings, a subsidiary label of Century Media. IGNITE are one of the most recent signings to the L.A.-based label, who have also recently signed TURBONEGRO and THE JULIANA THEORY. IGNITE frontman Zoli Teglas says: "It feels good to get the deal we wanted with a great label like Abacus, who give us complete creative control and the ability to get our music everywhere." Abacus plans to release IGNITE's first studio album since 2000's "A Place Called Home" during early 2006. The next IGNITE release will be followed by an intense worldwide touring regiment for the band. Bassist Brett Rasmussen comments: "We are really excited by the fact that we are signed to one label worldwide, and that we will have domestic releases, with great distribution, in all of the territories around the world that we tour." IGNITE look forward most of all, to having a label in the U.S. that's going to push them and provide the support that they have always wanted but never received before domestically. The four-piece band -- Teglas, Rasmussen, guitarist Brian Balchack and drummer Craig Anderson -- will be entering the recording studio in September with engineer/producer Cameron Webb (Social Distortion, Motorhead, Sum 41, Silverstein). First, however, the new material will be road tested, to smooth out some final wrinkles, when the group ventures to Europe in August to play festivals in Sweden, Germany, Holland, Hungary and also a handful of club shows. "We did the same thing when we recorded our last album. We did the European Warped Tour, then came home and went straight into the studio. We were very prepared and very tight because of it," added Teglas. Formed in suburban Orange County in 1994, IGNITE, whose fan base has largely been developed through near-constant global touring, deliver an intelligent, socially and politically aware, melodic brand of Hardcore that has taken them and their message to over 30 countries worldwide. Their high-spirited career includes several critically lauded recordings, including "Call On My Brothers (1995), "Past Our Means" (1996) and "A Place Called Home (2000). IGNITE have also released various live records and split CD's from which all proceeds have been donated to many environmental groups that the group supports, including The Sea Shepherd Society, Earth First and Orange County's own Pacific Wildlife Foundation.
[WATCH] MOTORHEAD Celebrate 30 With 'Stage Fright'
07.21.05
(MusicPortal.com)
MOTORHEAD are celebrating their 30th anniversary this year with a brand new 2-disc DVD entitled "Stage Fright," which has just been released via SPV Records. MOTORHEAD have shined on the world's most prestigious stages, graced countless important music magazine covers and released numerous classic albums. The fact that the band counts among the most authentic and charismatic Rock and Metal acts worldwide is without a doubt due to the never-tiring enthusiasm of Lemmy, who continues to live his own visions of musical earthiness irrespective of trends and fashions. "Stage Fright" is not just merely a Rock 'N' Roll statement chiseled in stone, but also an extraordinary look at the band's life. "Stage Fright" was recorded during a show at the Phillipshalle in Dusseldorf on December 7th, 2004. The set features 20 songs from the entire MOTORHEAD catalog, including 'Overkill,' 'Ace Of Spades' and 'Iron Fist.' Directly after the show, the band embarked on a three-month U.S. tour, culminating in a performance at WrestleMania in Los Angeles, California in front of 20,000 wrestling fans. The event was broadcast in 50 countries and witnessed by over 50 million viewers. DVD #1 features the Dusseldorf show, shot with 23 high definition cameras under the direction of Sven Offen (Papa Roach, Heather Nova, Gronemeyer, Die Toten Hosen). Gert Hof, famous not only for his work with RAMMSTEIN, was enlisted to take care of the show's light design. As a special bonus, there is an interactive DVD check with MOTORHEAD, with the three musicians contributing lots of interesting comments about the DVD. DVD #2 reveals previously unreleased insights into the inner life of the band, as well as interviews with MOTORHEAD mastermind Lemmy, guitarist Phil Campbell and drummer Mikkey Dee, as well as the road crew who talk about life on tour. Viewers also get a rare chance to watch the roadies doing their work, listen in to a sound check, meet the band's cook, and accompany their entourage on the road. Other special features include a 'Life's A Bitch' cellphone ringtone, MOTORHEAD wallpaper for your PC and cellphone, photos from the WrestleMania show in Los Angeles and an extensive discography. All in all, "Stage Fright" offers over 4 hours of MOTORHEAD mania, and comes in Dolby digital 5.1 and AC3 stereo sound.
[WATCH] KT TUNSTALL's Nominated For Mercury Prize
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...
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[LISTEN] NASHVILLE PUSSY Signs To Steamhammer
07.20.05
(MusicPortal.com)
Steamhammer/SPV Records have announced the signing of down and dirty Rockers NASHVILLE PUSSY. While countless bands appear happy with their attempts to feed their luke-warm standard fare to the masses, NASHVILLE PUSSY's totally wild Rock 'N' Roll makes their listeners hungry for more. Considered the missing link between classic yob Rock along the lines of ROSE TATTOO or MOTORHEAD and the snotty Punk attitude of the likes of ANTISEEN or TURBONEGRO, NASHVILLE PUSSY consciously over-emphasize the "sex meets rock 'n' roll" factor. September 26th will see the release of their latest album, "Get Some," which was produced by Daniel Rey (Ramones, etc.) and mixed by Glen Robinson. Anybody not infected by the Nashville 'n' roll virus after listening to the recording should probably have their hormone levels checked. NASHVILLE PUSSY's releases celebrate timeless American Rock of the most radical variety: dirty, vulgar and very direct. The four-piece consists of a married couple, Blaine Cartwright (vocals, guitar) and Ruyter Suys (lead guitar), plus bassist Karen Exley (a.k.a. "Cuda") and drummer Jeremy Thompson (a.k.a. "Remo"). Albums such as "Let Them Eat Pussy, "High As Hell" or "Say Something Nasty have caused an international stir, and their 1999 single release 'Fried Chicken An Coffee' even earned the band a Grammy nomination in the category of "Best Metal Performance." NASHVILLE PUSSY came together in 1996. "We were tired of seeing bands that were boring, all style and no soul. So we decided to play the kind of music that we would like to hear," comments Ruyter Suys on the birth of her band. Ever since, NASHVILLE PUSSY have been performing a strenuous annual gig marathon, touring with acts like SLIPKNOT, SLAYER, SEVENDUST, MOTORHEAD, MISFITS, THE DICTATORS, SUICIDAL TENDENCIES and LYNYRD SKYNYRD. A renowned American music magazine rightly referred to NASHVILLE PUSSY as "the hardest band working in show biz." Following the release of "Get Some," which features a cover version of Ike & Tina Turner's 'Nutbush City Limits' alongside a dozen other original compositions, NASHVILLE PUSSY are set to embark on an extensive tour afterwards, determined to document impressively what their audience has come to expect under the heading of "spectacular stage show."
[FREE MP3] MANOWAR's 'Hell On Earth IV' DVD On Way
07.20.05
(MusicPortal.com)
MANOWAR will release their new DVD box set entitled "Hell On Earth IV" next Monday, July 25th, continuing the "Hell On Earth" saga - complete with fantasy epic artwork and packaging, high quality video and audio and unparalleled MANOWAR Metal. Also included in the new box set will be an extra bonus audio CD with the brand new song 'King Of Kings,' taken from MANOWAR's upcoming new studio album. "Hell On Earth IV," once again directed by Neil Johnson, was filmed using state-of-the-art cameras, lenses, and more than 70 camera angles to capture the pure power of MANOWAR, as well as the raw energy of their fans in 5.1 Surround Sound. "Hell On Earth IV" is a tribute to MANOWAR fans, who have proven to be some of the most dieheard followers on the planet. The fans' appreciation of the band's various moods is just one component of an intense, magical bond between them and their following. Stories of MANOWAR fan loyalty have become legendary. Fans constantly send the band letters signed in their own blood and photos of themselves tattooed with the band's imagery. On a recent European tour, a Norwegian acolyte flew over 1,000 miles South from beyond the Arctic Circle to see MANOWAR play in Oslo, Sweden. When a group of Australian fans heard the group were playing in Japan, they caught a flight there and attended all four shows. Devotees in Argentina collected thousands of signatures pleading with the band to come to their country. "We have the greatest fans in the world," attests MANOWAR drummer Scott Columbus. "For a long time, our fans have stood by us. They've given everything to the belief that together we are the defenders of the heavy metal faith. That's why we've been able to keep playing our brand of music. That's why we haven't wimped out or bowed to commercialism. Our fans are at the core of everything we do. That's the way it's been done from the beginning." MANOWAR live shows have also garnered a reputation for the band's "all-out" attitude. "The whole purpose of playing live is to blow people's heads off," says bassist and founding member Joey DeMaio. "That's what we do; that's the energy of this band. We're out there to kick ass. We're out there to turn our gear on and blast. We're out there to kill. That's what metal is. Anybody who says otherwise is not playing heavy metal!" MANOWAR have sold over 8 million records to date. Their most recent album, "Warriors Of The World," went gold almost immediately after it's release, topping the Metal charts around the world.
[WATCH] HOUSTON CALLS' 'Short Stories' Will Debut
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] PLAYERS Follow-Up Release Expected Soon
07.18.05
(MusicPortal.com)
Described as "nothing less than extraordinary" by Mojo magazine, PLAYERS will be releasing the follow-up album to their 2003 debut via Sanctuary Records on September 19th. Combining several styles of music including Rock, Funk and Blues, this aptly named veteran group of musicians mix a 21st Century attitude with cunning grooves and seasoned musicianship honed from years of experience, while at the same time paying respect to the past while creating music for the future. In short, PLAYERS mix a fresh contemporary approach to music charmed by an infectious familiarity. Now following on from their critically acclaimed 2003 debut, "Clear The Decks," comes "From The Six Corners," an album of all new material. The first single to be taken off "From The Six Corners," 'What's Your Problem,' will be released on September 5th. PLAYERS' nucleus boasts an illustrious pedigree. There's Mick Talbot, Hammond organ maestro, who's provided the keys for acts including DEXY'S MIDNIGHT RUNNERS, THE BUREAU, THE STYLE COUNCIL and GALLIANO. There's also Steve White, talented drummer who's provided the backbeat for the JAMES TAYLOR QUARTET and THE STYLE COUNCIL, and is currently playing drums for Paul Weller, formerly of the latter band and THE JAM. Lastly, there's bassist Damon Minchella, formerly of OCEAN COLOUR SCENE and currently a member of Paul Weller's band alongside Steve White. "From The Six Corners" also features the impressive vocal talents of Kelly Dickson, whose raucous, funky delivery recalls that of Marlena Shaw's during her late 1960's run on Cadet Records. Guitarist/vocalist Ken Papenfus and percussionist/vocalist Carl Papenfus round out the PLAYERS current line-up, both of whom are from Irish band RELISH, who's last album went platinum in their homeland. In other PLAYERS news, exactly one week after the band's new line-up debuted at this year's Glastonbury Festival Of The Performing Arts, both Steve White and Damon Minchella proved they are up there with the best by stepping in to play with Rock legends THE WHO at Live 8. "Performing to an audience of over 200,000 people, playing bass with The Who at Live 8," reflects Minchella - "bloody hell, that's going to be difficult to beat!"
GREEN CARNATION Working Acoustic Album
07.18.05
(MusicPortal.com)
GREEN CARNATION, the Norwegian band featuring guitarist Tchort (Terje Vik Schei) from BLOOD RED THRONE, EMPEROR, SATYRICON and EINHERJER, are currently at Brown Sound Studios working on their first acoustic album, tentatively titled "The Acoustic Verses." The album will celebrate the band's 15th anniversary, and will be released as a limited two-disc edition, featuring lots of exclusive material from the history of the band and its members. The album will be issued later in the year via Sublife Productions, the new label owned by Tchort and GREEN CARNATION vocalist Kjetil Nordhus. Sublife Productions will also work as the management and booking company for GREEN CARNATION, BLOOD RED THRONE and CARPATHIAN FOREST. Other releases through Sublife Productions will see the light of day next year. Tchort had the following to say about Sublife Productions: "In addition of the acoustic album featuring only new songs written for the album exclusively and cover songs, we have some releases lined up for next year that make us really excited about the whole Sublife thing. Some of these releases will blow people away and set new standards in music, but we also have some very interesting historical documentaries coming up on DVD that we hope to land a deal on." Adds Nordhus: "It will probably take some time yet to finish it, but I do think we have some cool material from hearing the ideas of the other guys. It's again going to be a very different album from Green Carnation, but I guess no one will be surprised by that." After the overwhelming response from the gigs on their recent mini-tour in UK and Ireland, GREEN CARNATION are more eager than ever to tour. They are currently discussing several trips all over Europe, and work is in progress for a full European tour during the Fall of 2005. Nordhus is delighted by the interest in the band: "Things are looking better now than in a long time for us. The band is on the up after our recent gigs, and there's nothing we want more than touring more. It seems like there's quite a lot of interest in the band from different European countries, and that gives us great satisfaction. We haven't been the most active touring band up until now, but we hope we can do something with that during the next half year or so." In related tour news, GREEN CARNATION are doing a one-off exclusive show as headliners in Toronto, Ontario on October 14th as part of this year's Day Of The Equinox festival in Canada. Other bands slated to perform on the bill include AGALLOCH, DECEASED, UNEXPECT, NOVEMBERS DOOM and WOODS OF YPRES.
[FREE MP3] AMERICAN MINOR Debut Upcoming On 8/16
07.15.05
(MusicPortal.com)
Upcoming Rockers AMERICAN MINOR will release their self-titled debut album on August 16th via Red Ink/Jive Records. The album comes as a complete surprise, sounding like a missive from an alternate, more perfect universe where TELEVISION opened for BAD COMPANY and THE GUN CLUB toured with TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS. AMERICAN MINOR are five working-class young men from rural West Virginia who write songs about real life instead of their record collections. They know that GRAND FUNK RAILROAD was like the MC5, but with a better looking lead singer. Most importantly, AMERICAN MINOR know more about living in house trailers than living off trust funds. Produced by Christopher Thorn and Brad Smith (founding members of BLIND MELON) and mixed by Rob Schnapf (Elliott Smith, Beck, Foo Fighters, The Vines), "American Minor"'s eleven songs display a natural confidence and ease that spring from a lifetime of shared experiences growing up in Huntingon, West Virginia. Unfettered by the rules and taboos of a local scene, the band's sound developed naturally. "We didn't have anyone telling us what was and wasn't cool," says AMERICAN MINOR vocalist Robert McCutcheon. "Led Zeppelin and Pavement, Neil Young and Fugazi, Tom Waits and Elliott Smith, it was all rock music to us." That freedom allowed AMERICAN MINOR to develop something special: a completely contemporary sound that's firmly grounded in Classic Rock records made before anyone in the band was born. Even though AMERICAN MINOR played its first shows in 2002, the band's roots go all the way back to the 2nd grade, when guitarist Josh Gragg and drummer Josh Knox were both sent to the principal's office for setting off bottle rockets at recess. While waiting to see the man in charge, they discovered a shared interest in AEROSMITH's "Pump" album (especially the 'Love In An Elevator' video). Gragg and Knox remained fast friends through high school, eventually landing coveted jobs at the Teays Valley Dairy Queen. "The DQ was definitely the prestige job among kids in our hometown," says Robert McCutcheon. "Once you'd worked there long enough, you got to change the letters on the marquee out side the restaurant, using one of those long magnetic poles to reach the sign. And since a new message on the Dairy Queen sign qualified as big news in our town, everyone thought the sign was hilarious, so being the official 'Sign Guy' made you a local celebrity." DQ...
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[LISTEN] ALISON MOYET's 'One Blue Voice' DVD Due
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...
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[LISTEN] ROGER WATERS Writes, Records New Opera
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."
PETER DISTEFANO Back With 'Soul Trigger'
07.13.05
(MusicPortal.com)
Former PORNO FOR PYROS guitarist PETER DISTEFANO's new solo album, "Soul Trigger," is scheduled for release July 26th via Sanctuary Records. The new offering is the follow-up to 2004's well-received "Gratitude" album. "Soul Trigger" will be available exclusively online via various digital music services, while CDs will be sold through fan-run website www.peterdistefano.com and at PETER DISTEFANO live shows. "Soul Trigger" is truly a solo album, as DiStefano recorded the music entirely by himself. He sang and layered the guitar and bass parts on top of Garage Band drum samples, the "live" feel being the result of recording the parts in one take. Musically, the majority of the album has a stripped down Pop/Punk sound - the inspiration for that able to be traced in part to RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS bassist Flea, also a good friend of PETER DISTEFANO. "Flea invited me to the Ramones tribute concert that was held at the Avalon in Hollywood last year. Then I saw the new Ramones movie 'End Of The Century: The Story Of The Ramones' and got their first album. I missed The Ramones and The Germs when they first came out. I wasn't into punk at the time," DiStefano says. Lyrically, DiStefano takes a brutally honest, unflinching look at his troubled life on "Soul Trigger," much like he did on "Gratitude." He has lived a life that would kill most people, battling and overcoming severe heroin, crack and alcohol addictions and an overall decadent lifestyle which peaked during the 1992-1997 PORNO FOR PYROS years. After conquering those demons, PETER DISTEFANO successfully beat cancer after grueling chemotherapy. He then took on the task of gradually rebuilding his career. "'Gratitude' was the gift of me getting off of heroin and crack. 'Soul Trigger' is straight-edge," DiStefano says. "I'm fighting to be honest. I can only write about what I've lived. I can use my past mistakes to help people. Both albums can be described by one word: Honesty." PETER DISTEFANO has no illusions that he has permanently conquered his demons. "The title track of 'Soul Trigger' is about me still having that urge. I still have the devil in me, like a loose cannon with a cannonball," he says. However DiStefano is winning the war. His career is back on track, he and his wife have two children and he channels aggression into healthier outlets such as his guitar playing and extreme sports such as surfing, motocross and skateboarding. "We emptied Flea's pool to skateboard in it," laughs DiStefano.
BHTM Song Picked For Space Shuttle Theme
07.12.05
(MusicPortal.com)
BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS' new song 'Blue Sky' has been recognized as the theme song of the Space Shuttle's much-anticipated return to flight. As a result of this, NASA has invited the Rock trio to be on hand as VIP guests at the Kennedy Space Center tomorrow, July 13th, when the space shuttle Discovery lifts off on a 13-day mission commanded by Eileen Collins, the first woman to helm a shuttle exploration. 'Blue Sky' just became available today exclusively through iTunes here, and will also be on the BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS' next album. BHTM vocalist/guitarist Todd Park Mohr wrote 'Blue Sky' at the urging of John Horan, Deputy Program Manager for ASRC Aerospace Corporation, NASA's research and development contractor. "John's a fan and came on our BHTM Fan Cruise in January," says Mohr, referring to a week-long excursion of the British Virgin Islands which the band hosts for 240 fans each spring. "We got to talking, and he said they've used 'Rocket Man' so much, and wanted a song specifically about the American shuttle program." After the tour, Mohr returned to his solar-powered studio in the Colorado mountains and started doing research about NASA. "I drew on my experience from visiting the Kennedy Space Center with Brian and Rob, where we were given a behind-the-scenes tour, as well as astronauts' autobiographical material posted on the NASA website. I am a believer in space exploration, and believe the effort is in many ways the cream and flower of human achievement." BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS (Mohr, bassist Rob Squires and drummer Brian Nevin) were friends in high school and formed the group in 1986 while attending Littleton, Colorado's Columbine High School. Their latest releases include the "Crimes Of Passion" album and the "Live From The Fillmore" DVD, both available via Sanctuary Records. BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS have released nine albums, including the platinum-selling "Sister Sweetly" and continue to tour relentlessly. The band's radio hits include the songs 'Broken Hearted Savior,' 'Sister Sweetly,' 'Bittersweet' and 'Resignation Superman.'
[FREE MP3] PAUL McCARTNEY's 20th Studio Effort Near
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."
JAH WOBBLE Will Release New Studio Album
07.08.05
(MusicPortal.com)
Following up last year's successful anthology album, "I Could Have Been A Contender," comes the first commercial release from JAH WOBBLE since 1994's "Take Me To God" album. "Mu," scheduled to be released on September 12th via Trojan Records, is a 10-track album described by the artist as "Zen Dub." JAH WOBBLE, one of contemporary music's more unique bassists and producers, has found a new sensibility on "Mu," drawing on a plethora of inspirations, sounds and techniques that make up the genre-busting set. For instance, 'Samsara' is a tough Urban track with a deep and spiritual message, while 'Viking Funeral' is a real London-flavored Reggae number and 'Buddha Of Compassion' is a lush, dreamy and cinematic slice of World Dance. Behind the concept of the album, Wobble explains how "the original idea behind 'Mu' was to make a dub-style Surround Sound 5.1 recording." However, owing to technical difficulties at a fairly early stage, he aborted the 5.1 sessions and reverted to Stereo. Despite the switch back, Wobble "retained a '5.1 sensibility' with most of the tracks, i.e. lots of frequencies moving around, stereo image as wide as can be, the sound layered in sonic tiers." "Mu" also presented itself as a perfect opportunity to showcase the prodigious talents of sound engineer Mark Lusardi (The Orb, David Bowie, Lee "Scratch" Perry, Dennis Bovell, Duran Duran, etc.). Wobble first worked with Lusardi back in 1978, and have since collaborated together on various projects including "Deep Space" (1999) and "Molam Dub" (2000). "He (Lusardi) is the most under-appreciated and unacknowledged 'back room boy' in the game that I know of," Wobble comments. "Mu" continues JAH WOBBLE's ability to mesmerize, surprise and challenge his audience, his musical direction having always been genuine, from the heart and pure. According to Wobble, The title "Mu" refers to an old Zen Koan. "It came into being when a famous Chinese Zen master called Joshu (A.D. 778-897) was paid a visit by an aspirant monk. As a dog walked by the Monk asked Joshu: 'Has that dog got Buddha nature or not?" Joshu immediately answered 'Mu!' 'Mu,' like the original..."
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HELLOGOODBYE To Begin West Coast Tour
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] CHERRY MONROE Major Label Debut's Due
07.06.05
(MusicPortal.com)
Up and coming Glam Rockers CHERRY MONROE will release their Universal/Republic Records debut album "The Good, The Bad, And The Beautiful" on August 16th, off of which comes with the unmistakably catchy single, 'Satellites.' CHERRY MONROE is made up of Frankie Bennett and Ryan Harris on guitars, Jason Levis on drums, Dave Saltzman on bass, and Matt Toka on lead guitar and vocals. For such a mature sounding debut, it will come as a surprise to most that CHERRY MONROE have only been together since the spring of 2004. Singer Matt Toka had been writing songs and recording demos for two years with local producer Brian Campbell, but had been doing it all alone. One night when they were relaxing after a long recording session, Campbell introduced Toka to the guys in an area band called OUTBOUND, which included bassist Saltzman, guitarist Harris and drummer Levis. "At first we weren't even thinking about doing anything together," Levis admits. "We had our thing going, but then a few months went by and our singer wasn't writing any songs, so we got sick of that and contacted Matt. He came over a few days later and we just started clicking." The final piece to the puzzle was guitarist Frankie Bennett, who they all knew by reputation for his work in a number of area bands over the years. Though each of the band members came to the table with their own musical tastes, they all share a love of Classic Rock, huge stage theatrics, and the over-the-top production of Butch Walker and the live-fast-before-dying attitude and unforgettable hooks of hard-edged glam bands like GUNS N' ROSES and HANOI ROCKS. They knew they had to have a sexy moniker to match their attitude, so they melded Cherry -- an homage to good girl Cherry Valence from "The Outsiders" -- to the name of the sexiest pop culture icon of all time and Cherry Monroe was born. The newly-minted fivesome were writing songs instantaneously and walked out of their first practice together with the punchy rocker 'Satellites' finished, the song that would become their...
[full story]
[LISTEN] JOHN MAYER Announces JOHN MAYER TRIO
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] BIG DUME Will Deliver Debut Album July 26th
07.01.05
(MusicPortal.com)
Reflective of the Malibu, California coastline for which they are named, BIG DUME deliver a musical blend of power, beauty and danger while seductively evoking extraordinary emotion on their debut full-length album, "Inside My Head," which is set to be released on Chartless Records July 26th. Formed in early 2004 by singer/songwriter Brandon Jenner and a close knit group of musicians emerging from the growing Malibu music scene, BIG DUME open "Inside My Head" with the dark and introspective title track, moving through an incredible fusion of styles, thought-provoking lyrics and emotive arrangements before closing with a stripped down acoustic confessional in 'I Lost You.' Loaded with textured melodies and biting honesty, the album ventures deeply into the complex balance between love and loss, narcissism and humility, sensitivity and cynicism, confusion and clarity, etc., while within it all, an addictive curiosity leads the listener from one track to the next with heightened interest. Brandon Jenner is the first-born of gold-medal Olympian Bruce Jenner and Pop culture beauty and award-winning lyricist, Linda Thompson. Thompson later married 14-time Grammy Award winning producer David Foster, who has been a close part of Brandon Jenner's life and growth for 20 years. BIG DUME's lineup includes bassist Joe Ayoub, who has also worked with Liz Phair, Marvin Sapp and Tyler Hilton, among others, and drummer Chris Steele,who holds a master's degree in Jazz studies and anchors the rhythms while bringing innovative percussion technique to the band's original Rock sound. Additional vocals and piano are delivered by Leah Felder, a life-long native of Malibu and daughter of former lead guitarist Don Felder from THE EAGLES. Brandon Jenner and Leah Felder previously teamed up in another band called NIGHT VISION in 2003. In addition to his own songwriting and recording, Jenner has done guitar session work with notable artists including Josh Groban, Michael Buble and pianist William Joseph, and earned his national touring stripes as bassist for Punk band 2 CENTS during the 2003 Warped Tour.
[LISTEN] MANNTIS Vocalist Checks In With New Update
07.01.05
(MusicPortal.com)
Explosive Southern California quintet MANNTIS recently completed a nationwide U.S. tour with OTEP in support of "Sleep In Your Grave," their critically acclaimed debut album. The group's new offering, produced by Cameron Webb (Danzig, Motorhead, Social Distortion), is now available via Century Media and goes straight for the jugular with its scorching guitar work and pummeling rhythmic assault. The band's staggering blend of Hardcore and Metal is delivered with authority and conviction, proving to the genre's elite that they will soon be a force to be reckoned with. MANNTIS vocalist Jake Sirokman checks in with his thoughts on the release of their debut album: "I just wanted to say we are stoked about our debut album, 'Sleep In Your Grave,' finally being available to the masses. We would like to thank Century Media for all that they have done for us; we are very excited to be with such a great label. We love the other bands on the roster, and are proud to be alongside them for years to come. No doubt that 'Battle for Ozzfest' was a great opportunity, but we're grateful that Century Media saw through the smoke and mirrors of TV and saw us for the band we are. We look forward to a long and hard year of touring our asses off, and we will not let anyone down. Also, look for our new video for 'Axe Of Redemption' to make its debut on Metal Asylum and Headbangers Ball in late July. Well, that's about it, see you all on the road and make sure to pick up the new album." MANNTIS initially gained worldwide exposure via the hit MTV show "Battle For Ozzfest" and the recent "Battle For Ozzfest" U.S. tour. Their influences come from a diverse number of bands, ranging from MESHUGGAH and PANTERA to KILLSWITCH ENGAGE and ZAO, to name just a few, and their dynamic sound reflects a combination of those influences. Make no mistake, MANNTIS are a band not content with being just television personalities, as their only common goal is to deliver the music they love to a willing audience. In the process, their determination and talent should quickly help them develop a devoted legion of rabid fans.
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