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Music Reviews, Interviews, News, Viewpoints And Much More... Showcasing The Very Best In Rock, Blues And Beyond.
| 12/15/2011 05:47 AM |
| From The Heart And Soul : An Exclusive Conversation With Beth Hart |
 Beginning to play piano at age four, she later attended L.A.'s High School for the Performing Arts as a vocal and cello major. From classic female vocalists such as Dinah Washington, Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald, singer songwriters as Carole King to the heavy metal rumblings of Black Sabbath and Rush, Hart naturally soaked up all the musical influences around her. Often compared to the late rock legend Janis Joplin, whom she portrayed in the theatrical production of 'Love Janis' in 1999, its more due to her ballsy, no holds barred approach to singing rather than being a copyist which draws such comparisons. Signing to Atlantic's Lava imprint, Hart issued her debut album, 'Immortal', in 1996. Her sophomore album, 'Screamin' For My Supper' released in 1999, saw her influenced by a deep love for the blues stylings of the great Etta James. The album was also notable for spawning top 5 Adult Contemporary Chart hit in "L.A. Song(Out Of This Town)",the success of which spurred on by its inclusion in episode 17 of the final season of mega popular TV show Beverly Hills 90210. Subsequent albums, such as 2003's 'Leave The Light On' and 2007's hard rockin' '37 Days' continued to exhibit a musical maturity lyrically informed by autobiographical tales. The live CD/DVD 'Live at Paradiso', released in 2005 demonstrated firmly that not only was Hart an impressive singer/songwriter, but that she was able to deliver the goods live. A stunning example of rock showmanship, it ranked her among the elite of her craft, attracting such admirers as British guitar god Jeff Beck and ex Guns N Roses axeman Slash. Around this same time she also contributed a smoldering performance on the album 'Les Paul & Friends : American Made World Played' accompanied by Journey/Santana legend Neal Schon on "I Wanna Know You". In 2010 she recorded and released her latest solo release to date, the thought provoking 'My California' . A showcase of vignettes gleaned once again from Hart's personal experiences, including the poignant "Sister Heroine", an ode to her sister whom she lost to drug addiction, it proved that 14 years into her career, at a time when many have peaked, she was just hitting her stride. Earlier this year she worked for the first time with blues rock guitar titan Joe Bonamassa, providing the background vocals on the track "No Love On The Street", from the guitarist's latest solo album 'Dust Bowl'. Recorded during the same time as the sessions for the duo's brand new release of blues and soul classics,'Don't Explain'' which hopefully will be a catalyst for a long, fruitful working relationship for many years to come. Releasing an album of cover versions is always a dicey proposition due to obvious comparisons to the originals, yet Hart and Bonamasssa, more than ably assisted by uber producer Kevin Shirley (Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, The Black Crowes, Joe Bonamassa) have deftly conjured up a sound all their own. Weaving their own sonic tapestry, Hart's sultry and seductive vocals combine with Bonamassa's mastery of blues rock guitar to breathe new life into such classics such as Etta James' "I'd Rather Go Blind", Ray Charles' "Sinner's Prayer" as well as unique interpretations of such material as Tom Waits' "Chocolate Jesus" and Delaney & Bonnie's "Well, Well", resulting in one of the finest releases to grace 2011. A testament of which being the fact that the album has just been nominated for 'Contemporary Blues Album Of The Year' at the 33rd Blues Music Awards, to be held May 10, 2012 in Memphis, TN. Recently we were able to catch up with Beth at home in Los Angeles to discuss her thoughts on the album, her philosophy regarding her music, what she has in store for the future, and much, much more. Please join us as we have a candid conversation with one of rock's most talented vocalists, Ms. Beth Hart. Click here for the exclusive interview. Beth Hart with Joe Bonamassa, "I'll Take Care Of You" The Beacon Theatre, New York City 2011  |
| 11/18/2011 02:31 AM |
| Having A Riot With Winter : An Exclusive Interview With Mike DiMeo |
 Another testament to his considerable vocal talents is the fact that the Long Island native was tapped by then Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore to work on their 25th Anniversary album 'The Battle Rages On,' going as far as recording sessions for the album before record company pressures brought Ian Gillan back into the band, leaving DiMeo somewhat the odd man out at the time. In 2004 the most versatile frontman joined up with ex Rainbow, B.O.C. and Sabbath drummer Bobby Rondinelli, guitarist Patrick Klein and bassist Randy Pratt in The Lizards for the excellent 'Cold Blooded Kings' album, eventually recording two further studio albums with the band, 'Against All Odds' (featuring several duets with Black Country Communion's Glenn Hughes), the covers album 'Archaeology' and the live DVD '4-2-11'. In 2006, he replaced vocalist Jorn Lande for the recording of power metallers Masterplan's 'Mk II'. One facet of DiMeo's musical abilities many of his fans in the metal and hard rock scene might not be aware of is his impressive skills as a keyboardist. From supplying Jon Lord stylings on the Lizards' releases ,being part of Andy Aledort & The Groove Kings, to him being part of the touring bands of Tommy James and The Shondells and Bonnie Tyler, the vocalist is finding himself increasingly in demand as a session player. Evidenced by the fact that he was asked to contribute on all tracks of the brand new release 'Roots' by albino blues rock legend Johnny Winter, even appearing live as part of the band for the CD release party in New York City. Recently we had the wonderful opportunity to catch up with Mike shortly after his appearance with Winter at the bluesman's album release party. Come read with us as we have an exclusive conversation with one of the finest vocalists on the hard rock/metal scene, Mike DiMeo..Click here for the interview.  |
| 09/16/2011 02:01 PM |
| YES Legends Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman To Undertake Fall U.S. Tour |
 Having worked together on and off since 1971's groundbreaking YES masterwork 'Fragile', Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman have traveled similar musical paths that have eventually and happily led their careers back together again! Now once again, the duo promise a magical evening of music and humor for all who attend! “Expect a night of music, full of YES classics and new adventures in song from 'The Living Tree' album and moments of brilliance, humor and affection borne from a friendship and musical partnership that has lasted 40 years”, says Jon. "We knew from the responses on the last YES tour that the acoustic section was extremely popular and that many of the pieces could be re-arranged and adapted to make very interesting and hopefully enjoyable new ways of playing YES music and our own music," adds Rick. The tour is being produced by Metropolitan Talent Presents and is booked by Keith Naisbitt of Los Angeles based Agency for the Performing Arts. John Scher co-CEO of Metropolitan says, "We are incredibly proud to be presenting the North American debut of this legendary duo! Jon and Rick ARE the voice and sound of YES, as well as famously successful solo performers! This tour will be areal treat for their legions of fans." The Anderson Wakeman Fall 2011 Tour Dates: 10/19/11 - Potawatomi Casino - Milwaukee, WI 10/22/11 - Carnegie Music Hall of Homestead - Munhall, PA 10/23/11 - Lisner Auditorium - Washington, DC 10/24/11 - Concert Hall - New York, NY 10/26/11 - Kleinhans Music Hall - Buffalo, NY 10/27/11 - The Palace Theatre - Albany, NY 10/29/11 - Tropicana Casino Resort - Atlantic City, NJ 10/30/11 - Temple Performing Arts Center - Philadelphia, PA 11/01/11 - Capitol Center for the Arts - Concord, NH 11/02/11 - The Ridgefield Playhouse - Ridgefield, CT 11/04/11 - Count Basie Theatre - Red Bank, NJ 11/05/11 - Sherman Theatre - Stroudsburg, PA 11/06/11 - Theatre at Westbury - Westbury, NY 11/08/11 - Hanover Theatre - Worcester, MA 11/10/11 - Grande Theatre du Quebec - Quebec City, QC, Canada 11/12/11 - St. Denis Theatre - Montreal, QC, Canada For more information: www.JonAnderson.com www.RWCC.com www.voiceprint.co.uk, www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk  |
| 09/01/2011 01:56 PM |
| Black Country Communion Release Video Trailer For Upcoming 'Live Over Europe' DVD |
 The DVD is set for a release date worldwide October 24, 2011. More information will be available at http://www.bccommunion.com/ The band's latest Kevin Shirley (Led Zeppelin, Black Crowes, Aerosmith) produced studio album 2', released June 13, 2011 via J&R Adventures/Mascot reached #23 on the UK Album Charts and #71 on the U.S. Billboard Top 200 Album Charts upon release.  |
| 08/31/2011 06:56 PM |
| Seeing It Through : An Exclusive Interview With Guitarist Matt Schofield |
 It was after seeing a video at the age of 16 of blues legends Albert King, Albert Collins and Stevie Ray Vaughan that the fledgling musician chose a path which during the course of four studio and two live albums has seen him garner many prestigious awards. Not least of which has been his being voted as the "Best British Blues Guitarist" at the inaugural 2010 British Blues Awards. Now Schofield is back with what is being hailed as his most polished and accomplished effort yet with the release of 'Anything But Time'. Produced by the legendary John Porter, whose resume resembles a veritable who's who of rock and blues, having produced such legends as Buddy Guy, B.B. King, John Lee Hooker among many others - it showcases the guitarist's quite impressive blues and jazz influenced guitar work framed by extremely strong songwriting, which very well may see him picking up even more awards by the time next year rolls around. Recently we had the wonderful opportunity to sit down with Matt in California during a break in the tour by the Matt Schofield Trio to talk about the new album, his influences and inspiration, what he envisions for his future and much, much more. Come join us as we have an exclusive conversation with one of the leading purveyors of modern blues rock guitar, Mr. Matt Schofield..... Click here for the interview.  |
| 06/22/2011 09:01 PM |
| Legendary Mountain Guitarist Leslie West Recovering After Emergency Leg Amputation |
 On Saturday, his leg began to swell, and as a diabetic he was rushed to the emergency room. He was diagnosed with the decision to go through an amputation in order to save his life. Surgery was a success, and the procedure removed his limb up to the knee. West is expected to fully recover, and faces extensive rehabilitation. The family has requested that the public and media respect his privacy while he comes to terms with this life changing transition. Leslie West "Crossroads" June 1, 2011 :  |
| 06/08/2011 01:14 PM |
| Black Country Communion Release First Video From 'Black Country Communion 2' |
 Anglo -American Hard Rock Supergroup Black Country Communion, featuring vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes (Deep
Purple, Black Sabbath, Trapeze), drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin),
keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater) and blues rock guitar titan Joe
Bonamassa have just released the first video 'Man In The Middle' from the soon to be released 'Black Country Communion 2'.The album will will be officially released in the U.K. and Europe on June 13 and in North America on June 14 via J&R Adventures.  |
| 05/25/2011 10:09 PM |
| Michael Schenker To Visit the 'Temple Of Rock' in July Featuring Performances By Slash, Myles Kennedy, Carmine Appice, Pete Way, Don Airey And Others |
 The CD will reportedly feature guest appearances by the following musicians: * Slash (GUNS N' ROSES, VELVET REVOLVER) - Guitar * Rudolf Schenker (SCORPIONS) - Guitar * Pete Way (UFO) - Bass * Neil Murray (BLACK SABBATH, WHITESNAKE) - Bass * Chris Glen (MSG) - Bass * Simon Phillips (TOTO, THE WHO, JUDAS PRIEST) - Drums * Carmine Appice (KING KOBRA, VANILLA FUDGE, ROD STEWART, JEFF BECK, OZZY OSBOURNE, BLUE MURDER) - Drums * Chris Slade (AC/DC) - Drums * Don Airey (DEEP PURPLE, RAINBOW) - Keyboards * Michael Voss - Vocals * Myles Kennedy (ALTER BRIDGE, SLASH) - Vocals "Temple Of Rock" track listing: 01. Intro 02. How Long 03. The End Of An Era 04. Saturday Night 05. Fallen Angel 06. Hangin' On 07. With You 08. Miss Claustrophobia 09. Scene Of Crime 10. Lovers Sinfony-Speed 11. Stormin' In 12. Speed 13. Before The Devil Knows You're Dead 14. How Long (guitar battle version) 15. Remember (bonus track for Japan)  |
| 05/16/2011 06:15 AM |
| Long Lost Album From Irish Blues Rock Guitar Legend Rory Gallagher Due Out May 17 |
 Rory Gallagher (1948-1995) is simply one of the all-time guitar greats. Slash, The Edge, Brian May, Johnny Marr, Janick Gers, Ritchie Blackmore, Glenn Tipton and Vivian Campbell have all said it. Since practically inventing the Power Trio format in Taste (both Cream and Taste debuted in 1966), Gallagher’s music has stood the test of time and he’s as popular now as he ever was, his influence gargantuan. The story of Rory’s lost San Francisco album actually starts in Japan. In November 1977, after a grueling six-month world tour, the band flew straight from their last show in Japan to San Francisco to begin working on a new album with famed American producer Elliot Mazer (who worked on Neil Young’s Harvest, Big Brother & The Holding Company’s Cheap Thrills and The Band’s The Last Waltz). Mazer recalls the sessions grew “tense,” as Gallagher thought the mixing process “too complicated.” By the end of January 1978, he had shelved the whole record and broke up his band of the past five years. Fast forward to 2011 when Rory’s brother/manager Donal allowed his son Daniel to recover the album from the Gallagher archive and begin the process of mixing it with his engineer. Rory said in 1992 he hoped the album would surface one day but only if it were remixed. Bingo. Hearing this historic never-before-issued studio album from a key period of Gallagher’s career (the album that would have been released between Calling Card and Photo Finish) is the Holy Grail for Rory’s fans. CD #2 is another fabulous discovery: a blistering live album taken from four December nights in 1979 at San Francisco’s The Old Waldorf. In the audience Van Morrison, on stage Rory Gallagher (guitar/vocals), Gerry McAvoy (bass) and Ted McKenna (drums). Daniel Gallagher chose to add the live side to highlight why Rory chose to shelve the studio album and reduce his band back down to a three-piece. Rory, after seeing The Sex Pistols at Winterland during final mixes for his own album, was struck by the stark drama and blunt primitivism of pure punk. “It was as close to Eddie Cochran as you’re going to get,'' he enthused. He had been saying that he wanted to get back to what he called “meat’n’potato rock’n’roll,” a stripped-back primal raw immediacy hearkening back to his Taste days. A street has been named after him in Paris; a corner in Dublin; a statue in his Ballyshannon birthplace, where The International Rory Gallagher Tribute Festival is held. There’s a Rory Gallagher Place and Rory Gallagher Music Library in Cork. Annual tributes are held in Germany and Japan. The man has sold in excess of 20 million albums. Notes From San Francisco will be a worthy addition to his canon. Track Listing: CD1 1. Rue The Day 2. Persuasion 3. B Girl 4. Mississippi Sheiks 5. Wheels Within Wheels 6. Overnight Bag 7. Cruise On Out 8. Brute Force & Ignorance 9. Fuel To The Fire BONUS TRACKS 10. Wheels Within Wheels (Alt version) 11. Cut A Dash 12. Out On The Tiles CD2 1. Follow Me 2. Shinkicker 3. Off The Handle 4. Bought And Sold 5. I’m Leavin’ 6. Tattoo’d Lady 7. Do You Read Me 8. Country Mile 9. Calling Card 10. Shadow Play 11. Bullfrog Blues 12. Sea Cruise Rory Gallagher - Follow Me (Live) by UDIGIMKTG  |
| 05/09/2011 01:18 PM |
| Glenn Hughes' Autobiography To Hit Stores May 12th |
 * "What Is A Woman's Role?" (Trapeze, written by Hughes) * "Holy Man" (Deep Purple, written by Hughes, David Coverdale, Jon Lord) * "Dying To Live" (brand new acoustic Glenn Hughes track) A launch event for the book will be led on May 12 in London, England. The evening will feature a solo acoustic set by Glenn, a preview of the book packages, and the opportunity to meet Glenn, co-author Joel McIver and the team at Foruli. Anybody who would like to enter a draw to receive an invitation to the event should please email their name and the title of the first track on the first Black Country Communion album to: glennlaunch@foruli.co.uk. All entries will be entered into a draw to receive one of twenty invitations to this exclusive event. For those that pre-ordered, your invite will be arriving shortly via email. Hughes previously said about the book, "My autobiography is going to be a literary event. I've been working on this book for the last three years and you've never read anything like it. It's the true story of the Voice Of Rock, from my childhood via my career in Trapeze and Deep Purple to my addiction and recovery. I'm now on top of the world as a solo artist and after so many years of sobriety, I can hardly believe that I survived. I spent a million dollars on cocaine and, when you've read this book, you won't believe it either." "Deep Purple And Beyond: Scenes From The Life Of A Rock Star" features contributions from Hughes' friend and comrade in Deep Purple David Coverdale, his lifelong musical collaborator Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath and a host of others, including Angie Bowie, John Varvatos and the members of THE KLF (with whom Hughes scored a global hit in 1991). The publisher, Foruli Publications, is a globally-recognized specialist in collectable, high-quality books. For more information, visit www.foruli.co.uk.  |
| 05/09/2011 01:11 PM |
| AC/DC Planning New World Tour |
 On the topic of the success of AC/DC's 2008 album "Black Ice", Young said, "We have such diehard fans, old and new. We've survived many changing fashions of music - we've outlived the lot of them."  |
| 05/04/2011 04:12 AM |
| Black Sabbath Guitar Legend Tony Iommi To Release Autobiography This Fall |
 According to a book description: "Iron Man chronicles the story of both pioneering guitarist Tony Iommi and legendary band Black Sabbath. Iron Man reveals the man behind the icon yet still captures Iommi’s humor, intelligence, and warmth. He speaks honestly and unflinchingly about his rough-and-tumble childhood, the accident that almost ended his career, his failed marriages, personal tragedies, battles with addiction, band mates, famous friends, newfound daughter, and the ups and downs of his life as an artist. Everything associated with hard rock happened to Black Sabbath first: the drugs, the debauchery, the drinking, the dungeons, the pressure, the pain, the conquests, the company men, the contracts, the combustible drummer, the critics, the comebacks, the singers, the Stonehenge set, the music, the money, the madness, the metal." According to Black Sabbath fan-site Black-Sabbath.com, the book is not completed and the release date(s) may change. To pre-order go to this location.  |
| 04/29/2011 04:56 AM |
| Aerosmith's Tyler and Perry's Drug Use Caused Collapse Of 2008 Album Recording Sessions |
 The Boston giants' recent history is littered with near disaster. In 2009 Tyler fell off stage while under the influence of drugs, breaking his shoulder and forcing the band to cancel their tour with ZZ Top. Months later he announced he wanted to concentrate on his solo career, and his bandmates set about finding a replacement. At the end of the year Tyler crashed a Perry solo show and told the crowd he wasn't leaving Aerosmith. Months later the band settled their differences and hit the road again, with both Toxic Twins saying the situation had got out of hand, and hadn't needed much conversation to repair.  |
| 04/24/2011 03:43 AM |
| Guitar Legend Jeff Beck To Release Live DVD Of 1999 Japanese Performance in May |
 Running a total of 69 minutes, and featuring 18 tracks, the lineup for the concert consists of Jeff Beck, guitar, Jennifer Batten, guitar, Randy Hope, bass and Steve Alexander, drums. The full tracklisting is as follows : * What Mama Said * Psycho Sam * Brush With The Blues * Star Cycle * Savoy * Black From The East * A Day In The Life * Declan * THX 138 * The Pump * ´Cause We Have Ended As Lovers * Space For The Papa * Angel * Even Odds * You Never Know * Blue Wind * Big Block * Outro / Another Place  |
| 04/20/2011 11:55 PM |
| Guitarist KK Downing Quits Judas Priest After 40 Years |
 The 59-year-old axeman recently told his bandmates that he’d decided to retire with immediate effect. After considering the situation they’ve decided to complete the Epitaph tour as planned. Downing will be replaced by 31-year-old Richie Faulkner, who was most recently a member of Lauren Harris’ band. In a statement Judas Priest say: “KK Downing has formally retired and will therefore not be joining us on tour. The band respect his decision and we all wish him well. “Having thought long and hard about how to proceed, Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, Ian Hill and Scott Travis unanimously agreed to go ahead with the tour, and not let down the fans around the world. “Fate stepped in and delivered the perfect replacement. Richie has blended into the band perfectly, and he’s a great talent who’s going to help set the stage on fire.” Priest last year revealed they’d decided to bring their touring career to an end after over 40 years on the road. They plan to release a new album in 2012. Downing said at the time: “Travelling becomes such a major part of your life that you feel like a piece of luggage yourself. But when you get to go to places you’ve never been before like Korea, Turkey, Romania and Columbia, you feel like the luckiest man alive. “People often ask me what it’s like to be on a tour and I always say the same thing. It’s the hardest thing you will ever do.”  |
| 04/15/2011 01:57 AM |
| Original Alice Cooper Band To Perform UK Holographic Concert |
 This happens on Wednesday May 11 at Battersea Power Station. Dubbed The Jagermeister Ice Cold Event, it will be the first ever holographic rock gig, and is being done to celebrate the release of the Alice Cooper box set Old School: 1964-1974. It will see the original Alice Cooper band, Alice Cooper, Michael Bruce, Dennis Dunaway and Neal Smith (minus the late Glen Buxton) making their first appearance in the UK since 1972. Says Alice: “We couldn’t resist this. Working with Jägermeister to appear as holograms on the other side of the Atlantic is the ultimate experience, a cutting-edge conjuring trick that celebrates the future and our history. We can’t wait to see the results".  |
| 04/12/2011 10:20 PM |
| Crossroads Guitar Festival Contest Winner Ryan McGarvey To Undertake First European Tour Dates |
 The 24 year old has been wowing crowds throughout the Southwest the past several years due to his jaw dropping live performances which reflect a deep senses of blues tradition melded with pure rock power. In 2010, despite entering late he beat out over 4500 hopefuls as he was chosen as the winner of Ernie Ball's 'Play Crossroads' contest, allowing him to perform what was an extremely well received set June 26th at Eric Clapton's 2010 Crossroads Guitar Festival in Toyota Park at Bridgeview, Illinois. In September of 2010 McGarvey performed onstage with bassist extraordinaire Tony Franklin (The Firm, Blue Murder, David Gilmour) and drummer Chris Frazier (Whitesnake, Edgar Winter, Eddie Money) on the bill, headlined by Derek Trucks and blues legend Honeyboy Edwards at Guitar Center's 2010 King Of The Blues Competition at the House Of Blues in Hollywood, California. This month on April 17th he will be appearing at The Dallas International Guitar Festival , held April 15-17 at Dallas Market Hall In Dallas, Texas, which also features performances by Rick Derringer, Brother Cane, Andy Timmons, Davy Knowles, George Lynch, Reeves Gabriels, Lance Lopez, Point Blank, Derek St. Holmes, Van Wilks,Rocky Athas, Mike Zito, Lillian Axe, Bugs Henderson, Anders Osborn and many others. For more information go to this location. He currently is at work on the follow-up to his critically acclaimed 2007 debut release 'Forward In Reverse'. (Photo Credit : Rhonda Pierce) European Tour Date Listings : Friday 10-6-2011 Bluesmoose Radio/Press Gathering Groesbeek,NL Saturday 11-6-2011 20th Ann. Groslch Bluesfestival Schöppingen,GER http://www.kulturring-schoeppingen.de/ Sunday 12-6-2011 VOFdepoort Mook (NL) http://www.vofdepoort.nl/ Monday 13-6-2011 de weegbrug Roermond Roermond (NL) http://www.deweegbrug.nl/ Tuesday 14-6-2011 TBA Wednesday 15-6-2011 TBA Thursday 16-6-2011 TBA Friday 17-6-2011 Der schwarze adler Rheinberg, GER http://www.schwarzer-adler.de/ (via Manni) Saturday 18-6-2011 DE Gompelhof Mol MOL (Belgium) http://www.gompelhof.be/ Sunday 19-6-2011 Woejtstok Brunssum (NL) http://www.woetsjtok.nl/  |
| 04/12/2011 03:20 PM |
| Blues Rockers To Come Together For New York Rory Gallagher Tribute In May |
 Musical performers already confirmed as appearing are Davy Knowles (Back Door Slam), Innes Sibun (Robert Plant), Jim Suhler (George Thorogood & The Destroyers, Monkey Beat), Scott Holt (Buddy Guy), Andrew "Duck" McDonald (Blue Cheer), Jeff Simon (George Thorogood & The Destroyers), Roger Earl (Foghat), Kerry Kearney (Kerry Kearney Band), Neil Evens (Soulive), JP, Bertha and surprise guests. Tickets are $30.00 and can be purchased at this location.  |
| 04/08/2011 02:26 AM |
| Billy Gibbons, Gregg Allman, Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks To Join Guitar Legend Johnny Winter On Blues Covers Album |
 The veteran guitarist, singer and bandleader's first studio album in more than seven years finds him covering material such as Robert Johnson's "Dust My Broom," Son House's "Death Letter," Elmore James' "Done Somebody Wrong," Bobby Blue Bland's "Further On Up the Road," Chuck Berry's "Maybellene," Jimmy Reed's "Bright Lights, Big City," Muddy Waters' "Got My Mojo Working" and Walter Davis' "Come Back Baby." "Roots" also features a pair of instrumentals, Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown's "Okie Doke Stomp" and "Honky Tonk," which features a guest appearance by Winter's younger brother Edgar. Also helping on the album are ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons, Gregg Allman, Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks and his wife, Susan Tedeschi, and "Conan" bandleader Jimmy Vivino. More guests are expected to be announced soon. "It's all old material that I grew up being influenced by," Winter tells Billboard.com. "I do a lot of songs I grew up loving. I've been wanting to do something like this for a long time. It actually is my manager's idea, but I love it." Growing up in Beaumont, Tex., Winter -- who played clarinet and ukulele before picking up the guitar -- says blues is something that appealed to him as soon as he was exposed to it. "I first started hearing it on the radio before I saw anybody live," he recalls. "I was about 12 when I heard it on the radio and I thought, 'This is the greatest music I've ever heard. What is this stuff?' The first album I ever bought was 'Singing the Blues' by B.B. King, then I started playing it." "Roots" is not Winter's only recording project this year, however. He played on a new version of "Thank You (Falletinme Be Mice Elf Agin)" for an upcoming album by Sly Stone and on a rendition of Deep Purple's "Space Truckin' " for William Shatner's new album, "Seeking Major Tom." "It was a funny song," Winter says of the latter project. "[Shatner] doesn't sing; he just talked it. He sent the tape down and I played on it; I didn't meet him or anything. But I always liked 'Star Trek,' so it was fun to do." This year also marks the 40th anniversary of "Live Johnny Winter And," the concert recording that was Winter's greatest commercial success. His own feelings about the hard-rocking album are ambivalent, however. "It's not one of my favorites," he confesses. "I like rock 'n' roll second to the blues; I just pretty much went into doing more rock 'n' roll because my manger back then thought the blues was kind of fading. He thought [rock] would be a good idea. I really wasn't happy about it, but it was my biggest-selling album, so it still feels a little strange to me."  |
| 04/07/2011 03:05 PM |
| British Heavy Rock Legends Uriah Heep Release First Video From Upcoming 'Into The Wild' Studio Album |
 The CD was produced by Mike Paxman (Status Quo, Asia) and features cover artwork by the renowned Greek-American artist Ioannis (Lynyrd Skynyrd, Fates Warning). "Into The Wild" track listing: 01. Nail On The Head 02. I Can See You 03. Into The Wild 04. Money Talk 05. Trail Of Diamonds 06. Lost 07. Believe 08. Southern Star 09. I'm Ready 10. T-bird Angel 11. Kiss Of Freedom "Nail On The Head" from the Audio Samples from "In The Wild"  |
| 04/06/2011 12:21 AM |
| Jon Anderson To Undertake Acoustic Tour Of The US In Support Of Forthcoming CD Release |
 Most recently, Jon Anderson's vocals from the song "In High Places" featured on Mike Oldfield's 'Crises' album from 1983 (written by Anderson and Oldfield) are sampled on Kanye West's new track "Dark Fantasy" from his 'My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy' CD, which has topped Billboard's chart as the #1 album in the country. On May 24, 2010 Jon shared the stage with the 112 member Cleveland Contemporary Youth Orchestra and 60 member student chorus in a mesmerizing performance that exudes joy and energy. The one night concert was recently shown on HDNet. For replay information visit www.hd.net/schedules/ Three weeks ago Jon sang with the wonderful San Antonio Youth Orchestra to several standing ovations adding a new ark to his luminous career. Jon is featured singing on the upcoming CD release by US composer and producer Jonathan Elias called 'Prayer Cycle', which also includes guests appearances by Sting, Rahat Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Jonathan Davis of Korn, Sinead O'Connor, Robert Downey Jr. and via an archival recording Jim Morrison, amongst others. Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman's recent collaboration 'The Living Tree', the duo's debut studio release featuring nine tracks of original material, has been garnering rave reviews worldwide! Details and ordering information can be found at the Voiceprint website. You can also download The Living Tree on Amazon.com. Jon's much anticipated forthcoming CD 'Survival and Other Stories” is scheduled for release in late Spring 2011. With themes about love, life, understanding, healing and survival, Jon's new CD has an inspirational message for all who will listen! “An Acoustic Evening With Jon Anderson” tour dates: 4/23/2011 - Somerville Theatre - Somerville, MA 4/26/2011 - Havana New Hope - New Hope, PA 4/28/2011 - Infinity Hall - Norfolk, CT 4/30/2011 - B.B. Kings Blues Club & Grill - New York, NY 5/02/2011 - Musikfest Cafe ArtsQuest Center at Steel Slacks - Bethlehem, PA 5/04/2011 - Theatre of Living Arts - Philadelphia, PA 5/06/2011 - Princeton University - McCarter Theatre - Princeton, NJ 5/07/2011 - New Jersey Performing Arts Center - Victoria Theatre - Newark, NJ 5/09/2011 - Rams Head On Stage - Annapolis, MD 5/11/2011 - Rams Head On Stage - Annapolis, MD 5/13/2011 - The Flying Monkey Movie House & Performing Center - Plymouth, NH 5/15/2011 - Bates College Olin Arts Center - Concert Hall - Lewiston, ME 5/18/2011 - Tupelo Music Hall - Londonderry, NH 5/19/2011 - Tupelo Music Hall - Londonderry, NH 5/21/2011 - Woodstock Town Hall Theatre - Woodstock, VT 5/25/2011 - Ellsworth Grand Auditorium - Ellsworth , ME For more information visit Jon Anderson's new website: www.JonAnderson.com www.facebook.com/TheJonAnderson www.twitter.com/TheJonAnderson  |
| 04/05/2011 11:19 AM |
| Paul Rodgers : "I Was Lined Up To Join The Doors" |
 “I discovered quite recently that I was lined up to join The Doors, which blew my mind,” he said. “Robby Krieger told me that The Doors were all fans of Free and after Jim Morrison’s death; they came to England looking for me. [The] thing is, at that time, I had buried myself in the country, working on things, and they couldn’t get a hold of me.” Manzarek ended up taking on lead vocal duties on the band’s initial post-Morrison music. “My jaw actually dropped like in a cartoon when Robby told me this,” Rodgers said. “Would I have joined them? I dunno. It’s hard to say, looking back. But I think not. I tend to form bands, that’s what I do. Although it’s always flattering to be asked!”  |
| 04/05/2011 10:50 AM |
| Blues Rock Guitar Legend Gary Moore Left Estate Of More Than $2 Million |
 The Belfast-born star died of a suspected heart attack in February as he began a holiday in Spain. Records released last week show that Moore's estate was worth £2.077m but this was reduced after liabilities to a net figure of £1.021m. The High Court in England granted a temporary order allowing his executors power to run his companies, Orionstar and Bonuswise, pending a final settlement of his estate. Moore, with an address in Hove, England, had two sons from a former marriage and a daughter from his relationship with Jo Rendle. It is not known if he left a will. The 58-year-old had a successful solo career as a singer and guitarist but is best remembered for his time with Thin Lizzy. Moore died hours after checking into the five-star Kempinski Hotel on the Costa del Sol.  |
| 04/04/2011 10:37 AM |
| New Album From ZZ Top To Be Out By End Of 2011 |
 Gibbons tells Billboard.com that the Texas trio has been working on the set in both Houston and Los Angeles. "I've got a little studio at my house out in L.A.," he says, "and it kind of takes the load off to be able to leave Texas, got to California, stay there for awhile and then you get to leave California and come back to Texas." As for the sound, Gibbons notes that he, Dusty Hill and Frank Beard are "still just making a lot of loud noise. We still pose as interpreters of the blues. We can't invent it; It's already been invented. But we can do it our way." Gibbons adds that the album will be comprised primarily of originals but that the group "might cover a couple of things."  |
| 04/01/2011 03:30 PM |
| Blues Rock Guitar Titan Joe Bonamassa Hits U.S. Top 40 Album Charts With 'Dust Bowl' |
 The Kevin Shirley produced Dust Bowl sold 14,420 copies its first week in stores placing the album at no. 37 on Billboard's Top 200 Chart and at No. 1 on the Billboard Blues Chart (his seventh consecutive album to debut at no. 1) and no. 5 on the Indie Chart. Bonamassa currently has three titles in the Blues Chart's Top 10. Accompanying "Dust Bowl" is his 2009 live album "Joe Bonamassa: Live From The Royal Albert Hall" at #5 and 2010's studio album "Black Rock" at #8.  |