URIAH HEEP “OUTSIDER” ELECTRONIC PRESS KIT:
Uriah Heep’s new album Outsider – Order NOW on Amazon: www.smarturl.it/heepoutsideramazon / On iTunes: smarturl.it/uheepoutsiderit.
Buy “One Minute” on iTunes: smarturl.it/HeepOneMinute.
Uriah Heep, one of the pivotal hard rock groups to emerge from England in the late 1960s returns with “Outsider”, its 24th studio album, and the first since 2011’s critically acclaimed Into the Wild album. “Outsider” will be released on June 6th in Europe, June 9th in the UK and June 10th in North America on Frontiers Records.
TANGO DOWN READY TO CHARM FANS THIS AUGUST:
Tango Down helped blow the doors off last year’s MRF3 Festival performing songs from their (Kivel) Release, Identity Crisis. The band knocked it up a notch with their strongest album and material to date, which was welcomed with like-minded reviews and praise last year.
So with the bar set so high and being raised with each release, what can one do? How can you expect to reach the next level? Scott Miller had this to say: “Well we raised the bar with each release. When it was time to do Identity Crisis, we pulled out the pole vault and went right over the bar. With our new album, the bar has been set even higher. So this time we strapped on our jet packs and are heading even higher this time!! If you enjoyed what we’ve done so far, than you are going to LOVE what we got coming next!!”
Of course both band and label have always prided themselves with their visual aspect, being just as important as the band’s music and production. Again with the assist of renowned photographer, Kent Miller Studios, the band put on their best dressed for the photo shoot and cover, once again raising the bar. So here is a peak at the band’s latest album artwork offering. Which was designed by the wonderful and talented Brooke J. McKaig/Vamp Visuals!
Tango Down “Charming Devil” is coming people, and he is the serpent that you can’t resist . Expect to hear some new musical offerings in the bands set. Just for YOU!
Pre order NOW at www.kivelrecords.com.
JORN LANDE FEATURED IN ONE OF THE WORLD’S LEADING GAMES “LEAGUE OF LEGENDS”:
Norwegian Rock Icon, Jorn Lande appears as lead vocalist on the song “Lightbringer”, launched on May 27th by Riot Games, Inc.
Jorn comments: “I have been working closely with music producer Christian Linke of Riot Games in LA, on a project called “Pentakill”, which is basically a heavy rock band within the League of Legends concept. “Pentakill” is the Valoran continents’ most famous (and possibly only) rock band. Its members consist of champions from the game. It’s very exciting to be a part of this new development in the gaming industry and a fabulous opportunity to be able to reach out to millions of people worldwide in just a blink of an eye. It has been a great experience working with the productive and dedicated people of Riot Games, and I am truly proud to be a part of this!”
Hear the song now via YouTube: youtu.be/oUiOylPbfV0.
The music video is also showcased on Pentakill’s website – pentakillmusic.com – which is owned and operated by Riot Games, Inc.
THE LATEST FROM ROCK CANDY RECORDS:
The following five new Rock Candy titles are available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price including postage to anywhere in the world for the next two weeks ending on June 15.
Krokus ‘Metal Rendez-Vous’ CANDY247 / “You can count the amount of internationally successful European hard rock bands on one hand; Swiss based Krokus are one of only a few acts that can be included on that list. With roots reaching back to 1975, the band spent several years experimenting with various line-up changes and recording three albums, before settling on a unique style that came fully into focus with the appointment of Maltese born frontman Marc Storace, formerly of Swiss heavy progressive rockers Tea. It was this formation that signed to German record label Ariola and cut ‘Metal Rendez-vous’, an invigorating example of explosive four-to-the floor hard rock, big on hooks and jam-packed with hell raising riffs. Chief amongst their selling points was Storace’s signature voice and his ability to punch home some incredibly well constructed songs. In addition, guitarists Tommy Kiefer and Fernando von Arb were no slouches either, peeling out a series of ripping solos and laying down tough as nails musical support in a manner befitting the times. Originally issued in 1980 and co-produced with the band in Switzerland by English producer Martin Pearson, the album contains a number of classic Krokus tracks including ‘Heatstrokes’, ‘Bedside Radio’, ‘Streamer’ and ‘Tokyo Nights’, some of which still remain in the band’s live set to this very day.”
Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 16 page full colour booklet, new interviews, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Heatstrokes 2. Bedside Radio 3. Come On 4. Streamer 5. Shy Kid 6. Tokyo Nights 7. Lady Double Dealer 8. Fire 9. No Way 10. Back-Seat Rock ‘N’ Roll.
Krokus ‘Hardware’ CANDY248 / “It’s fair to say that the Swiss music scene hadn’t exactly set the world on fire but with Krokus that situation was rapidly reversed. The band’s fourth album ‘Metal Rendez-vous’ became a surprise success, not only in their home country (sales rocketing to three times Platinum) but also globally where they secured a strong foothold in the charts and on the live front. The band’s no-nonsense brand of tough-guy hard rock found favour in a market that was wide open for that revolution. ‘Hardware’, therefore, was released into the arms of an eager fan base feeding off the energy of their previous album and it didn’t disappoint them. Issued in 1981, the record picks up where the band left off, laying down some serious riffage on songs that display a cheeky lyrical charm; an unexpected side-effect of their Swiss/Maltese heritage. Engineered by British studio master Mark Dearnley (AC/DC, Def Leppard) and recorded in London, the album makes full use of their powerful armoury, led by the ripping two guitar attack of Fernando von Arb and Tommy Keefer. Heavy but memorable, the album contains a superb selection of tracks, including the in-concert favourites ‘Easy Rocker’, ‘Mr 69’, ‘Smelly Nellie’ and ‘Mad Racket’, songs blessed with a swish and swagger that made it clear the Scorpions weren’t the only band in Europe with big potential.”
Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 16 page full colour booklet, new interviews, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Celebration 2. Easy Rocker 3. Smelly Nelly 4. Mr. 69 5. She’s Got Everything 6. Burning Bones 7. Rock City 8. Winning Man 9. Mad Racket.
Krokus ‘One Vice At A Time’ CANDY249 / “There comes a tipping point in every artist’s career where years of hard work and paying dues suddenly turn into an avalanche of praise and success. Krokus reached this point with the release of ‘One Vice At A Time, a supremely crafted album, boasting a clutch of tracks that elevated their appeal far beyond anything previously conceived or, indeed, achieved. Co-produced in London by former AC/DC engineer Tony Platt and issued in 1982, the band made a concerted effort to refine their sound and ambition by bringing their trade mark style fully into focus. Sure, certain accusations that that their riff hungry approach was uncomfortably similar to that of AC/DC had been bandied about but their distinctively European charm and quirky lyrical approach helped to ameliorate such criticism. Jam packed with a number of raucous tracks such as ‘Bad Boys Rag Dolls’, ‘To The Top’, ‘American Woman’ (a cover of the Guess Who classic) and perhaps their best known song ‘Long Stick Goes Boom’, there is room enough for the band to drill down deep yet retain a sense of composure befitting a band safe in the knowledge that they were about to reap the rewards of years of hard work. Look out for an appearance by Iron Maiden vocalist Bruce Dickinson, who provides backing vocals on the track ‘I’m On The Run’.”
Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, co-produced by Tony Platt (AC/DC),16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, new interviews, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Long Stick Goes Boom 2. Bad Boys Rag Dolls 3. Playin’ The Outlaw 4. To The Top 5. Down The Drain 6. American Woman 7. I’m On The Run 8. Save Me 9. Rock ‘N’ Roll.
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Vandenberg ‘alibi’ CANDY229 / “Adrian Vandenberg has been, quite rightly, hailed as one of the world’s best rock guitar players, carving out a first class reputation for himself since the early 1970s. His band Vandenberg, formed in Holland in 1981, became one of the surprise attractions during the early eighties, storming the US charts and stylistically rivalling the cream of hard rock contenders such as Ratt, Dokken and Def Leppard. With the right looks and hooks it appeared that they could have gone on to bigger and even better things. Sadly, however, it was not to be. ‘Alibi’ was their third and final album. Recorded back in Holland, and issued in 1985, the record showcased all that was good about the band, with its powerful riffs, melodic hooks and well-crafted arrangements. Once Again, it was Adrian who stole the show, writing all the songs, designing the artwork and providing a remarkable selection of guitar solos, contributions that would not go unnoticed amongst his contemporaries. Indeed, once Adrian had disbanded the band, David Coverdale approached him to join Whitesnake for their hugely successful ‘1987’ album. Produced by former Golden Earring drummer Jaap Eggermont, ‘Alibi’, despite its relative commercial failure, still holds firm as a record that combines all the great elements of Vandenberg’s all too brief day in the sun, leaving behind a vapour trail that still impresses to this day.”
Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, produced by Jaap Eggermont (Golden Earring),12 page full colour booklet, 3,000 word essay, new interview, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. All The Way 2. Pedal To The Metal 3. Once In A Lifetime 4. Voodoo 5. Dressed To Kill 6. Fighting Against The World 7. How Long 8. Prelude Mortale 9. Alibi 10. Kamikaze.
Fortress ‘Hands In The Till’ CANDY241 / “The music business is littered with sob stories. Those that shoulda’, coulda’, woulda’ made it if matters hadn’t conspired against them. It’s a familiar tale of woe alright and one that we’ve heard a million times before yet the strangest thing is some of the world’s greatest recordings have been cruelly thrown to the kerb by a simple twist of fate. Step forward Fortress, an act that really ought to have made a much bigger splash than they did. Although the band came and went in the wink of an eye, they’re members had actually been active for a number of years, even rubbing musical shoulders with several prestigious outfits during the 70’s, including Tom Petty’s Mudcrutch and cult hard rock act White Witch. The big break came with the formation of Fortress yet, sadly, through no fault of their own, success failed to materialise. Based in Los Angeles, the band attracted the ears of Freddie Piro a producer who had already made a big splash recording the progressive rock band Ambrosia. Piro’s Fortress demos attracted the attention of Atlantic Records who promptly signed them, resulting in ‘Hands In The Till’, one of the most impressive heavy and melodic rock albums of the early 80s, attracting eager comparisons to the likes of Journey, Roadmaster, Foreigner and Boston. Sadly, like many other stunning examples, changes in the hierarchy at their label put paid to their dreams.”
Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, classic underground AOR,12 page full colour booklet, 3,000 word essay, new interview, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Hands In The Till 2. How Do I Exist 3. Comin’ After You 4. Requiem 5. Kisses 6. Let’s Do It Again 7. Breakin’ Free 8. Carry Me Back 9. Back On The Path 10. Mystery.
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ONE ON ONE WITH MITCH LAFON – NIGHT RANGER’S KELLY KEAGY:
In episode 17 of One On One With Mitch Lafon: In part one, Mitch sits down with Night Ranger’s Kelly Keagy to discuss the band’s new album High Road, the band’s upcoming touring plans, being part of the Kiss Kruise, the sometimes under-appreciated Feeding Off The Mojo album that included Gary Moon on vocals, the importance of Jack Blades to the band and much more.
In Part 2, Mitch chats with Lillian Axe’s Steve Blaze. Topics discussed include the band’s new triple disc set One Night In The Temple, the Louisiana Rock Hall Of Fame, the importance of a brand name, getting to work on the new ‘electric’ Lillian Axe album, working with Ratt’s Robbin Crosby and much more.
Link: www.spreaker.com/user/talkingmetal/one-on-one-with-mitch-lafon-episode-17.
This episode of One On One With Mitch Lafon was co-hosted by Andrew McNeice of http://www.melodicrock.com – Andrew talks about his love for Night Ranger, working the new Lillian Axe album, the launch of the NEW melodicrock.com and Melodic Rock Records including how to submit an artist’s demo for consideration.
For more about Night Ranger visit: www.nightranger.com.
For more about Lillian Axe visit: www.lillianaxe.com
BRET MICHAELS’ MEDICAL EMERGENCY:
From: www.facebook.com/BretMichaels – “Breaking News: Message From Pete Evick Regarding Bret Michaels’ Medical Emergency.
This is a message I never imagined I’d have to post. Tonight in Manchester, NH 3 songs into the set Bret had me sing a song as he rushed off stage. In the 9 years I’ve stood next to him, I’ve never seen a look like the one on his face as if I was a complete stranger. One of the crew returned instantly to notify me that Bret’s blood sugar was extremely low.
He returned to the stage only to announce that he could not continue. As you all know he is a health fanatic and fiercely monitors his blood sugar, he basically had to be dragged off the stage in his sickest of conditions. When I rushed to the bus he could barely speak, but begged me to apologize to the fans and seemed only concerned for them.
As of now he is with paramedics being evaluated. We will keep you posted throughout the evening. ~ Pete Evick”
RUBICON CROSS HITS THE CHARTS WITH SELF-TITLED DEBUT:
There is an unmistakable buzz surrounding the hard-hitting self-titled debut from Rubicon Cross. And now, the chart numbers are backing up the buzz, as it has been announced that the album has debuted at #23 on the Heatseeker Chart, #42 on the Hard Music Albums Chart, and #123 on the Independent Albums Chart. Additionally, the album hit the Top 40 at Best Buy, where the album’s deluxe edition (which comes with a poster and bonus tracks) is available for purchase: www.bestbuy.com/site/rubicon-cross-deluxe-only–best-buy-with-bonus-tracks-poster-cd.
Comprised of CJ Snare/vocals, Chris Green/lead guitars, Jeff Lerman/second guitar, Simon Farmery/bass, and Robert Behnke/drums, the lush melodic core of Rubicon Cross’ songwriting is given a forceful, aggressive boost on this record.
From the first single, “Bleed With Me” that starts just as propulsive as it ends to “Kill Or Be Killed” that has a relentless metal drive, Rubicon Cross is a collection of contemporary heavy music that sits just as comfortably next to hard rock classics as it does modern rock upstarts. “Locked and Loaded” is featured in the Xbox360 and PS3 game “Dirt Showdown” alongside of new rock heavy-hitters Rise Against, Rival Sons and The Parlor Mob.
Check out the video for “Bleed With Me” here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFneEfoJbn8&feature=youtu.be. Check out the “Bleed With Me” song here: soundcloud.com/rubicon-cross-official/bleed-with-me/s-b4fB0.
Album Track List: Locked And Loaded, Next Worse Enemy, Bleed With Me, Save Me Within, You Will Remember Me, Moving On, R U Angry, Shine, Kill Or Be Killed, All The Little Things.
For more info, visit: rubiconcross.net / facebook.com/rubiconcrossband.
PAVIC TO OPEN DAY 3 OF ITILIAN FESTIVAL:
Italian rockers Pavic will be opening the 3rd day at the Rock In Idro 2014 festival in Bologna, Italy on Sunday June the 1st. The band will share the stage with Iron Maiden, Alter Bridge, Black Stone Cherry, Opeth and more. Pavic won the “Rock In Idro Band Contest” with their performing of the Iron Maiden classic “Wasting Love”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=79r4ProIGkM.
The band recently released their critically acclaimed third album entitled “Is War The Answer?”. Three singles with videos were released from the album: Song For The Rain: www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsUdibJYCM0; Is War The Answer?: www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNk7tHPnsDk; In Your Eyes: www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTNPtaNu1mQ.
WebLinks: www.rockinidro.com / www.pavictheband.com / www.facebook.com/pavictheband.
MRX UPDATED:
2 new Feature Albums online today to check out:
– Jon Butcher – Pictures From The Front (1989)
– Biloxi – Let The Games Begin
Join MRX now.
RARE NEW BILLY SQUIER INTERVIEW:
Greece’s Rockpages Web Magazine did an exclusive interview with Billy Squier regarding the re-release of his last rock record “Tell The Truth”. Here’s an excerpt where Billy Squier lets us know what exactly happened back in 1993:
Rockpages.gr: The album starts with the “in your face” track “Angry”. Did it reflect your feelings toward the music industry – I mean both musically and lyrically- after the lack of success of “Hear and Now” and “Creatures of Habit”?
Billy Squier: (laughs) Unlike some of my other songs I wouldn’t say that I was directing to that side of the industry with this song. It’s interesting that you pose that question because I can see why you are thinking that. The best thing about music is that the listener wants or tries to interpret the song the way he wants to. Some songs are so direct that leave a little for the imagination but getting back to “Angry”, you have interpreted the song in a way that I probably didn’t intend it to be but could easily have been (laughs)! I mean, if “Angry” had been on another record after “Tell The Truth” and that record started with this song then you would have been completely right. Because the record company didn’t do anything to promote the record and actually made me quit the music business with all that happening after the recording of “Tell The Truth”. When I did “Tell The Truth”, I was going through my fourth or fifth label president at Capitol Records. The guy who came in while I was making the album was previously at Geffen and he was somehow involved in the whole grunge movement.
Well, this guy decided that he knew more about music than I did. He had an idea of what he was gonna do at Capitol Records and he decided that he was not gonna promote Billy Squier. I really don’t know why he decided that but I can tell you this: when I finished “Tell The Truth” and gave it to Capitol, he called me up…it was spring of 1993…he called me up at my home and he said: “Billy, I wanna tell you something. This is the best record that’s coming out from our label for at least the next six months”. And…Sakis, that’s the good part…he said: “….and I am gonna make sure that nobody hears it”! He said that…he said: “I’m gonna bury your record”! And I said to him: “what are you talking about”? He wouldn’t give me a straight answer…nothing! The next thing I did was to call my lawyer and ask him to get me out of this horrible situation. It was such an incredible…I don’t know if “shock” is the right word…but it had such a huge impact on me that I immediately said: “fuck that…I’m done”! If someone could do such a thing to me, I don’t want to be involved anymore in this business.
You know…it hurt so much because he told me that the record so good…well, I knew that I had done my best on “Tell The Truth”. When I made “Don’t Say No”, I felt and I believed that this was the record I had been working all my life to make. I felt and trust me I am not making this up…I felt that this is the best that I could do. If “Don’t Say No” is not accepted, I am done. That was my exact thought back in 1981. I was sure I couldn’t have done a better record than “Don’t Say No”. And of course, the record was a big hit. When I made “Tell The Truth”, I felt the same way. I was so proud of that record…I remember Mike Chapman telling me: “Billy, you are the best songwriter, I’ve ever come across in my life”! Coming from someone like Mike, it meant a lot to me. So, after all this hard work, there comes this guy telling me: “I’m gonna take your best work and bury it”… there wasn’t much that I could…I left; I walked…you know, I haven’t listened to “Tell The Truth” for a few years and quite recently I put it on and the record blew me away! In fact, I was listening to “Revolver” (ed. note: The Beatles album)…some people think that it’s the best record of all time…so, I was listening to “Revolver” and for some reason after that, I put on “Tell The Truth” and I felt like those two records are completely in good company together. I think that “Tell The Truth” is one of the best rock records ever made by me or anyone! I really do…I think it’s that good.
I can put on “Revolver” or Led Zeppelin’s “II” and then “Tell The Truth” and there is no quality gap. The label’s decision not to push the record, changed my life…it was definitely something that I didn’t anticipate. I didn’t pick up for a couple of years after that. I was so disillusioned by the whole thing that I never really wanted to come back to the industry. And I haven’t done anything really…apart from an acoustic album (ed.note: “Happy Blue”) which came along fine because I wanted to do something different; something challenging as a songwriter. For better or for worse, here I am. My life is good. I am not anywhere nearly involved with music as I used to be. But, I have mixed feelings about it because I love to play. Fortunately I got some chances to do it…Ringo (Starr) was good to me for a few years. Sometimes I feel that I would like to play more but at the same time I don’t want to be a part of this music industry, you know? I feel that music is not as important anymore as it used to be for a lot of people. What counts nowadays is…I don’t know…twitter accounts. So, I don’t really miss what’s going on.
Read The Full Interview Here: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=10506&type=1&lang=EN.
LUKATHER TALKS MORE TOTO:
Two new Steve Lukather / Toto interviews to check out today –
1 – Guitar International: guitarinternational.com/2014/05/28/steve-lukather-toto-35-anniversary-concert-dvd-surrounded-friends/
2 – Something Else Reviews: Steve Lukather on the deep cuts from Toto’s new live DVD. somethingelsereviews.com/2014/05/28/deep-cuts-steve-lukather-on-totos-goin-home-st-george-and-the-dragon-others/
UNBREAKABLE DELIVER ‘KNOCKOUT’ MELODIC METAL SOUNDS ON NEW ALBUM:
With interest in vintage ’80s metal sounds at seemingly an all-time high in the U.S., German rockers Unbreakable have picked the perfect time to unleash their new album, Knockout. Having recently signed a record deal with the hard rock and metal label Dark Star Records(based in Chicago), the label works in association with Sony Music Entertainment, which will undoubtedly help introduce Unbreakable to U.S. rock fans and beyond. ‘Unbreakable’ will be released in America on July 29, 2014.
And the band – which is comprised of Al Crespo (vocals), Martin Ries (guitar), Pascal Alles (guitar), Lukas Mittler (bass), and Alexander Ries (drums) – couldn’t have picked a better/knowledgeable producer, who certainly knows a thing or two about classic ’80s metal himself…former Scorpions drummer Herman Rarebell.
“It was a real pleasure to work with Unbreakable,” says Rarebell. “They could be the next SCORPIONS! That is what I think and feel – I had a lot of fun producing them. America…get ready for Unbreakable!”
After finishing the album the guys are extremely pleased with the end result. “We love all the songs! Each song has its own and special story. The lyrics are real life stories. They are real and no fantasy stories. Our crazy Rock n’ Roll tale! Our lead-off single, ‘Rock the Nightlife,’ will give you a little taste of what living on the road feels like!” And it is this very song that will soon receive the “music video treatment,” and will feature Rarebell as a special guest.
Once the album drops, Unbreakable plan to hit the road hard, showing the world that they can rock and party with the best. “You can expect a high energy rock show and hard power chord guitar riffs with melodic solos, a high metallic voice and driving drum rock beats. We feel like home wherever the stage is!”
Soon, the U.S. will discover the power of Unbreakable. For more info, visit: www.unbreakable-music.com / www.facebook.com/UNBREAKABLE.Music.
VALERIE RELEASE THE FIRST SINGLE FROM THEIR UPCOMING SECOND ALBUM:
Norwegian rockers Valerie have just released the first single “Night After Night” from their sophomore album. The single, which very much like their critically acclaimed debut, features big guitars, catchy hooks and that 80s rock feeling. The album is set to be released in 2014. The single is available worldwide through iTunes, Spotify and Amazon among others. www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9atHKZ6m6I.
Valerie s/t debut album was both a fan and critics’ favorite for its youthful energy, “possessed by the same pop-metal spirit that defined the burgeoning Sunset Strip scene back in the 80s”ќ (Mark Allen, Hard Rock Haven) Sleaze Roxx’ Mark Redmayne called the album “an arresting set of tracks that’ll stalk you from day one”, scoring 8.5/10 Rock Garage Magazine, 7/10 Roxx Zone, and was featured in Classic Rock Magazine in 2013.
WebLinks: www.facebook.com/valerieband / www.valerie.no.
S.E.X. DEPARTMENT REPORT:
Press Release: “We are happy to present our last double album as S.E.X. Department. Recorded at House of Metal, Caorle, Italy by Sandro Vazzoler. Mixed and mastered by Illka Wirtanen, Kaiku Entertainment, Finland.
English album Rock’n’roll SS: 1) Break Down 2) Night Of Demons 3) Rock’n’roll SS 4) No More Beer 5) Hollywood Nightmare 6) Tokyo Death Party 7) Nunaj Nina Nena 8) Baltic Night 9) S.E.X. Department.
Italian album: 1) Eutanazia 2) Slava 3) Venezia 4) Volare 5) A Natale Puoi 6) L’italiano 7) S.E.X. Department.
In worldwide distribution and on iTunes, Napster and Amazon right now!
Cpt Marco Mendess about new album: “Talkin’ about Love, talkin’ about Violence, talkin’ about the Dark Side of the Music. In a World conducted by mind control, plastic surgery and mandatory pornography, here we are, ready to kick your ass! We are the Rock N Roll SS! … see you around!”
Cpt Mendess will be back with his new project Cpt. Mendess & Rock’n’roll Army. First presentation on Masters Of Rock 2014 festival – Main stage – Sunday 13th July 2014.
SLASH FEATURING MYLES KENNEDY AND THE CONSPIRATORS ANNOUNCE ‘WORLD ON FIRE’:
Slash and his bandmates Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators will release their new album World On Fire on September 16 via Slash’s own label Dik Hayd International distributed through Caroline. The group revealed the cover artwork for World On Fire designed by American contemporary artist Ron English today. Featuring the blazing title track as the first singlearriving at radio Friday, June 13ththe disc marks Slash’s third solo album and second one with his band featuring Myles Kennedy (vocals), Brent Fitz (drums) and Todd Kerns(bass). **See a Q&A with Slash And Myles Kennedy below.
For World On Fire, Slash and his band tapped Michael “Elvis” Baskette (Alter Bridge, Falling In Reverse, Incubus) to produce. Among the 17 songs is an instrumental–a powerful new turn for the band. World On Fire is the follow-up to 2012’s Apocalyptic Love which debuted at #4 on the Billboard Top 200 chart and earned SLASH two No. 1 U.S. rock radio hits–his first-ever solo–with “You’re A Lie” and “Standing In The Sun.” SLASH officially began recording as a solo artist with his self-titled 2010 debut album which employed a different vocalist on each track of his first album including Ozzy Osbourne, Fergie and Myles Kennedy among others.
Following are song titles for World On Fire: “World on Fire” “Shadow Life” “Automatic Overdrive” “Wicked Stone” “30 Years to Life” “Bent to Fly” “Stone Blind” “Too Far Gone” “Beneath the Savage Sun” “Withered Delilah” “Battleground” “Dirty Girl” “Iris of the Storm” “Avalon” “The Dissident” “Safari Inn” “The Unholy”.
SLASH and Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators have announced additional solo dates in between their summer tour with Aerosmith. The group will preview new songs for fans on the trek which kicks off Thursday, July 10 at Nikon at Jones Beach Theatre in Wantagh, NY (see the full itinerary below). Special ticket packages include: amazing seats (Level 1 tickets), an exclusive autographed SLASH lithograph, a Digital Download of the new SLASH album WORLD ON FIRE and a merchandise voucher worth $50, redeemable in the SLASH Exclusive Online Store. For all packages, visit: slashonline.com/tour.
Check out the exclusive behind-the-scenes documentary SLASH’s “Real To Reel” at: http://www.slashonline.com. The innovative online series documented the entire in-studio recording process from the first day of recording to the last; the multi-segment fly-on-the wall series follows Slash and The Conspirators from pre-production at NRG Studios in Los Angeles to Studio Barbarossa in Florida, as they write, play, create and record WORLD ON FIRE from start to finish.
SLASH and MYLES KENNEDY talk about the album and the forthcoming tour dates in this Q&A:
WORLD ON FIRE marks your second album with your band MYLES KENNEDY (vocals), BRENT FITZ (drums) and TODD KERNS (bass). How do you feel the dynamic between the four of you has evolved?
SLASH: We had a natural chemistry from the very beginning. The longer we have been together the more it has blossomed. And because of all the touring and the different situations we have been thrown into as a band and as players, we have all subconsciously learned from that. It shows up when we’re writing and when we’re recording. It’s sort of an unsaid thing, but I can sense it. It’s a natural evolution for a bunch of musicians in a band together.
MYLES: Over the last four years we have definitely evolved into a band. Utilizing Todd’s vocal prowess and Brent’s ability as a multi-instrumentalist definitely highlights what the Conspirators are capable of. I feel like it adds to what Slash and I do as songwriters. Not to mention they are both a big part of the arrangement process. Todd even brought in a cool progression that we used for the verses in “Shadow Life” and he added an great intro to “The Dissident” which is really fun.
What are the biggest differences between the last album Apocalyptic Love and the new album WORLD ON FIRE?
SLASH: The biggest difference is that the band has also has naturally evolved with so much touring and all of these different things. There’s a difference in musicianship that shows on this record and the songwriting skills especially.
The other difference is the fact that we recorded both albums live, but we kept the first one (Apocalyptic Love) just live. That was it. There was no over-dubs or layering or any kind of studio techniques. With WORLD ON FIRE I wanted to do guitar harmonies and double up parts and just create sounds. It’s a little more produced record in that sense.
MYLES: We didn’t spend as much time fine-tuning arrangements as a unit during the Apocalyptic sessions. I think that’s part of the reason this record sounds as cohesive as it does. Slash spent a lot of time with Todd and Brent working on arrangements while I was on tour with Alter Bridge late last year. When I got off the road, I met up with them in LA so they could get a feel for how the songs felt with vocals.
Another difference is that Slash played all the guitars on WORLD ON FIRE. During the Apocalyptic sessions I sang and played guitar which was fun, but it definitely cut into the amount of time I had to focus on lyrics, etc. Not playing guitar on WORLD ON FIRE gave me additional time to fine-tune lyrics and melodies which improved the songs in the end. I’m very happy with how it turned out.
For WORLD ON FIRE you teamed up with producer Michael “Elvis” Baskette (Alter Bridge, Falling In Reverse, Incubus). What do you feel he brought to the table?
SLASH: Elvis is very conscious about guitar and guitar tones as well as drums, bass and vocals. For me, it is important to work with somebody who is very dialed-into guitar sounds. In this particular day and age it’s a rarity to find someone who really understands guitar sounds. Elvis is an extremely hard-worker. I consider myself a hard worker as well as Myles. He was somebody that, over the course of making the record, gave me an even more of an extra push in some moments. So he brought out the best in me as well as Myles and the drums and everything. He was a pleasure to work with.
MYLES: Elvis is brilliant. It’s the fifth record I have had the pleasure of recording with him. His ability to get the best out of a rock band is pretty special. He always seems to be aware of what the fans want to hear from an artist. He did a great job documenting Slash’s tone and sound. I remember the first time I heard the solo for “Battleground”–I was blown away. Elvis captured the sonic hallmarks that made Slash’s playing resonate with me 25 years ago. Elvis is hands-on with every element of the recording process. From the arrangements to the final mix, he is relentless at making sure that the record is everything it should be and more.
Did you guys experiment with any new sounds with the production?
SLASH: Yes and no. The whole record sounds new compared to the last album. Yes we did do a lot of tonal and EQ and guitars. I can’t say we were looking to break ground with new technology, because we did this to tape. But from a tonal and equalization point of view, we definitely broke a lot of new ground.
MYLES: That would be a question for Elvis or Slash. I can definitely hear some new approaches that I haven’t heard on the last two records.
NIGHT BY NIGHT DEBUT DUE JULY 11:
British hard rockers Night By Night, who feature Ben Christo (Sisters Of Mercy guitarist) in their ranks, will release their brand new album “NxN“, on July 11 (Europe),July 14 (UK) and July 15 (USA/Canada) via A Sun Hill Production/Cargo Records.
“NxN” was produced by Romesh Dodangoda (Motцrhead, Bullet For My Valentine, Sylosis) at Outhouse studios, engineered by Rob Thomas, lead vocals produced & engineered by Ben Christo Henry Rundell and mixed by John Mitchell (Alter Bridge, Asia, Snakecharmer) at Outhouse studios.
“These guys are the complete package, big hooks, big melodies and shit-hot harmonies. Night By Night are assured of a bright future!” (Rick Savage/Def Leppard)
Tracklist: 01. Time To Escape 02. Holding Onto Holding On 03. Cant Walk Away 04. Everywhere Tonight 05. Siren 06. A Thousand Lies 07. Its Not Faith 08. The Moment 09. If Only 10. Never Die Again.
Night By Night is: Henry Rundell – Lead Vocals (ex Voodoo Six), Tom Daniel – Guitars, Ben Christo – Guitars, Vocals (Sisters Of Mercy), Jonny Thornton – Bass, Vocals, Damien Diablo – Drums.
Night by Night areahard rock 5-piece from London who fuse searing riffs with soaring melodies. This cutting-edge quintet combine the best of classic and contemporary rock, charged with 3-part vocal harmonies to create their own sound and the result is a debut of unparalleled strength and musical maturity, with across the board appeal.
Combine the heavyweight riffs and modern crunch of Alterbridge, add the infectious choruses and lush vocal harmonies of Def Leppard for a taste of what Night by Night are all about. The band members each come with their own musical pedigree (The Sisters of Mercy, Voodoo Six) – and it shows. With flawless production (by Romesh Dodangoda – Funeral For A Friend, The Blackout, Bullet For My Valentine) and irresistible choruses, this is a rare gem of an album with ten strong songs, telling tales of hope and heartbreak.
From the beautifully addictive ‘Can’t Walk Away’ to the hard rocking, ‘Siren’ and everyone’s new favourite song, ‘If Only’ – Night by Night are creating musical alchemy.
“If you like hard rock with intensity, melody and meaning, you will find it here. We have real passion for what we are doing and have pushed ourselves to create the best music possible – no disclaimers, no excuses – we’ve worked hard and we are really proud of the result…”
Night by Night have toured extensively supporting the likes of Europe, Y&T, Jettblack, Heaven’s Basement, Alannah Myles, Acey Slade, The Quireboys, Jayce Lewis,Warrior Soul, Dear Superstar, The Dirty Youth as well as performing storming sets at Hard Rock Hell and Download Festival.
WebLinks: www.nxnofficial.com / www.facebook.com/NightByNightUK.
ALL STAR CONCEPT ALBUM OUT NOW:
All-Star Concept Album Featuring Drum Legend Simon Phillips, Toto’s Joseph Williams, and Uriah Heep’s John Lawton Now Available!
Asheville, NC – Possibly the most anticipated new release of 2014, My Kind O’ Lovin’ featuring drum legend Simon Phillips, Toto’s Joseph Williams, and Uriah Heep/Lucifer’s Friend’s John Lawton, is now available! Released on the heels of 2012’s hit album The Power Of Mind, featuring John Lawton, My Kind O’ Lovin’ is another innovative new CD, conceived, written and produced by the CGI member, and as of very recently European Citizen of the Year (2013) Dr. Milen Vrabevski. This next charity project of his is dedicated to young talents in EU.
Says Milen, “I allowed myself to play acoustic guitar in just the title song this time. Nothing else. The team was just too good for my level. Happy they liked the pieces. Many thanks to the guys I started this project with, and worked on the arrangements: Ivo Stefanov and Svurry, and to the whole all star band for their devotion.”
Pulling up a chair at Classic Rock Revisited’s Best Releases 2012 with Intelligent Music Project I, The Power of Mind producer Milen Vrabevski is setting a high standard of expectations with his Intelligent Music Project II, My Kind O’ Lovin’. The producer’s next charity project goes to support education programs for talented kids. Milen was awarded European Citizen of the Year 2013 (by the EU Parliament), and a Member of the Clinton Global Initiative.
My Kind O’ Lovin’ features a colorful, multifarious and formidable listening experience with hints of melodic hard rock and early prog, featuring the fabulous Simon Phillips (Toto, Jeff Beck, The Who, Mike Oldfield, Protocol II etc.) on drums & percussion – brilliantly bringing out the chemistry of this unpredictable format of vintage vocals from John Lawton (ex-Uriah Heep) and Joseph Williams (Toto). Strong melodies and acoustic patterns with impressive vocals of undiminished power – this hefty emotional pool comes across in a very melodic way featuring great lead guitar and spacious orchestral flourishes.
The author translates to the audience his own experience & vision about everyday life topics in an easy manner, focusing on essential values – solid ground to step on to having a meaningful life.
Says Milen, “The message of the album is what I, as an author, would prefer to raise my kids with. Frustration, constant criticism, and judging people leads to nowhere. Therefore, we present essential things about love, friendship, our own environment we should invest in, getting into substantial initiatives, knowing happiness through serving the others, not limiting our minds with prejudice while seeking togetherness, understanding our life is in our hands, finishing off with the principle that it’s good to wake up knowing what follows is a great day, in which fame does not matter, and ego’s domination is retrograde, and you enjoy to live for the others, doing things not because of the result, but because you love to be that way.”
Watch the official My Kind O’ Lovin’ promotional video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwavFSqjV7w&feature=youtu.be
Stand out tracks:
“Get Into Real” – if there is a song from this side act that connects the dots with some of William’s Toto-related cuts, this is it, but with hints of Led Zep to Asia nuances.
“Happiness”- a track so cool it deserves a trip around the world. You can take a magic trip through the positive messages of the album via Simple Game, Things We Can’t Do, Love Song to the rockin’ No One Can Deny It, Time To Move Along and other pieces on this hit collection.
“Conclusion” – a 6-minute summary of the composer’s key approaches throughout the album and presents the audience with the magnificent culmination of the super group Phillips-Lawton-Williams, the front-men format of Intelligent Music Project II.
Recording sessions for drums (Simon Phillips) and vocals (Joseph Williams) took place at Simon Phillips’ Phantom Recordings studio. Producer and composer Vrabevski was provided full creative input by Simon Philips in developing the course of compositions and musical ideas. Says Milen, “We recorded all drums and percussion, and Joe’s vocal parts at Simon’s recording studio in LA. Simon devotedly played the role of our music co-producer there too. Now he’s been kind enough to take part in finalizing all mixes of MKL tracks.”
Simon Phillips is an iconic English drummer and producer. He is also a prolific session drummer, and has played with such well known music artists as The Who, Judas Priest, Jeff Beck, Tears for Fears, Mike Oldfield, Pete Townshend, the late Gary Moore and many others.
“Working on this project with Milen Vrabevski was so much fun and I find his enthusiasm for music is so uplifting.” – Simon Phillips
Joseph Williams was part of four Toto albums – Fahrenheit (1986), The Seventh One (1988), Toto XX (1988) and Falling in Between (2006). He has since re-joined the touring edition of Toto for a series of shows across Europe and Japan.
“Milen was such a joy to work with .. Truly a warm and bright gentleman. It’s rare thing these days to work with such happy, enthusiastic talented people … I had a ball!!” – Joseph Williams
John Lawton, who split with Uriah Heep in 1979, was featured on the albums Innocent Victim (1977), Firefly (1977), Fallen Angel (1978) and Live ’79 and is considered the best singer around the British heavy progressive rock institution. After recording the conceptual album The Power Of Mind, Intelligent Music Project I, he joins the super group with Phillips and Williams in the second project of Bulgarian producer and composer Milen Vrabevski – My Kind O’ Lovin’.
“My Kind O’ Lovin’….Intelligent Music Project II….was for me an absolute pleasure to sing, the melodies flowing out of Milen Vrabevski’s head seem to be endless. The album differs a lot from The Power Of Mind, not only in that there are guest artist’s in the caliber of Joseph Williams and Simon Phillips both of Toto fame but some searing guitar work from a little known Bulgarian axe man known only to me as Sverri. I spent 2 weeks laying down lead & backing vocals in Intelligent Music’s new studio in Sofia / Bulgaria and believe me it wasn’t hard work, not when the music is this good.” – John Lawton
To purchase My Kind O’ Lovin’: www.amazon.com/Kind-Lovin-Intelligent-Music-Project / itunes.apple.com/gb/album/my-kind-o-lovin-feat.-joseph/id880550938 / For more information: www.mykindoflovin.com.
GREAT WHITE NEW ALBUM ‘SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL’ TO BE RELEASED IN JUNE:
[Note: as far as I can tell, this is a cobbled together compilation by “Collectors Dream Records”]
Great White’s new album Saturday Night Special will be released on June 13th, 2014, through the Collectors Dream Records label. This 15 track collection of fan favorites includes the band’s hits ‘Once Bitten Twice Shy’, ‘Rock Me’ and ‘Save Your Love’, plus covers of songs by: Led Zeppelin, Journey, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Van Halen, Motley Crue, Aerosmith and more.
Saturday Night Special tracklisting: ‘Once Bitten, Twice Shy’ (Ian Hunter), ‘Rock Me’ (Great White), ‘Save Your Love’ (Great White), ‘Keep Your Hands To Yourself’ (Georgia Satellites), ‘Hard To Handle’ (Black Crowes), ‘Eye Of The Tiger’ (Survivor), ‘Saturday Night Special’ (Lynyrd Skynyrd), ‘Same Old Song And Dance’ (Aerosmith), ‘Kickstart My Heart’ (Motley Crue), ‘Any Way You Want It’ (Journey), ‘Unchained’ (Van Halen) , ‘Diamonds & Rust’ (Joan Baez), ‘Dazed & Confused’ (Led Zeppelin), ‘Sarah’ (Thin Lizzy), ‘Blue Christmas’ (Elvis Presley).
Featuring Jack Russell on vocals and appearances by Dweezil Zappa, Jeff “Skunk” Baxter, Edgar Winter, Bruce Kulick, Tony Franklin and others. “Saturday Night Special” will be available on June 13th via Collectors Dream Records.
ALESTORM SET OFF INTO THE SUNSET:
Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the water… Alestorm are hitting the seven seas again!
ALESTORM are back with their outstanding new album “Sunset On The Golden Age”. Join the band as they cross the ocean on a vessel packed to the gunwales with their trademark catchy songs, fuelled by the bands on going love of the piratical life on the seven seas (with an abundance of wooden legs, parrots and eye patches thrown in for good measure!). Captain Christopher Bowes and his crazy crew are sailing through `Bacon Powered Pirate Coreґ with sleek keyboard riffs influenced by folk metal and classic power metal.
The winner of the `Best New Pirate Metal Bandґ Grammy Award, have once again triumphed in the studio and ‘Sunset On The Golden Age’ is full of brilliant performances and songs like ‘Drink!’, ‘Walk The Plank’, ‘Magnetic North’ and ‘1741 (The Battle For Cartagena)’, that once heard will not be forgotten in a hurry!
A real treasure trove for pirates and rum-loving landlubbers!
POD-BRIEFS:
Episode 15 of One On One With Mitch Lafon: In part one Mitch sits down Tesla from man, Jeff Keith. The two discuss the band’s latest album, Simplicity, as well as the band’s storied history, The Mechanical Resonance album, Jeff’s country & Bar 7 albums and much more.
In part two, Mitch sits down with legend George Thorogood. The pair discuss George’s longevity, his 40th anniversary tour, the pros and cons of Bad To The Bone, his health, plans for a new album, bands with gimmicks and much more.
The episode of One On One With Mitch Lafon was co-hosted Talking Metal’s Mark Strigl.
WebLink: www.spreaker.com/user/talkingmetal/one-on-one-with-mitch-lafon-episode-15.
This week on The Double Stop Podcast is an interview with legendary bassist Bob Daisley (Ozzy Osbourne, Rainbow, Uriah Heep, Gary Moore). Bob takes us through his career, and gives us a taste of what’s in his new autobiography ‘For Facts Sake’ќ. He explains how he got his start as a bassist, and goes into detail on his pivotal role in Ozzy’s first 6 studio albums. Plus he talks about his working relationship with Gary Moore, and his plans for the ‘Holy Grail’ќ – his rehearsal tapes of the original ‘Blizzard of Ozz’ќ band with Randy Rhoads.thedoublestop.com/ep-15-bob-daisley-ozzy-gary-moore / www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyAInC7zvKE&noredirect=1.
This week John Cuniberti returns to to the show for a 2nd interview to give us his top 20 tips for recording engineers, the history of Reamp (and why he created it during the mixing of Joe Satriani’s “Time Machine”), and looks at two more projects he worked on – Kevin Gilbert’s ‘Taming of tthe True’ќ (which he calls his favorite cd he’s worked on) and Sammy Hagar’s latest – ‘Sammy Hagar and Friends’ / thedoublestop.com/ep-16-john-cuniberti-producer-sammy-hagar-kevin-gilbert / / itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-double-stop/id818189359?mt=2.
CANADIAN PROG ROCKERS DRUCKFARBEN TO RELEASE SECOND SOUND CD:
Canadian progressive rock band Druckfarben will release their sophomore album, Second Sound, worldwide on March 22. The record will be available in CD form from their website (druckfarben.ca) and CD Baby, and digitally from iTunes and Bandcamp.
Second Sound features bold new colours in such songs as ‘An Answer Dreaming’ќ, ‘In Disbelief’ќ and ‘Liberated Dream’ќ, and concludes with the 19-minute ‘Second Sound’ќ suite. ‘This is a natural progression from our first album,’ќ says guitarist Ed Bernard, ‘but also introduces musical elements that might be surprising to those who know our music so far.’
Bernard leads the group, which was formed in 2008 along with bassist Peter Murray (Surrender Dorothy, Ron Sexsmith), keyboardist William Hare (Crystal Shawanda, Angelica DiCastro, Abraham’s Children), drummer Troy Feener (Full Nine, Tom Cochrane) and singer Phil Naro (Talas, Peter Criss, DDrive). In German, Druckfarben means ‘coloured ink used for printing on textiles or other media.’ќ In the mid-80s, teenaged Ed and Troy had no idea what the word meant when they discovered it stencilled on mysterious black barrels in their rehearsal studio. But many years later it resurfaced as the name of Canada’s great new prog export.
All five members of Druckfarben grew up with a shared love of classic progressive rock music, such as Yes, Genesis, Gentle Giant, Rush, King Crimson and Kansas. They played their first show on March 1, 2008 in Port Credit, Ontario. Their self-titled debut was released in October 2011, followed by a live DVD (Artifact) in 2013. They quickly built up an international following, including supporters such as Kim Mitchell, Nick D’Virgilio (Spock’s Beard), and Maurizio Guarini of Italy’s Goblin, as well as producers Terry Brown (Rush) and David Bendeth (Bruce Hornsby, Paramore).
The band is eager to perform the exciting new material from Second Sound live throughout 2014 and beyond.
For news and updates, follow: www.druckfarben.ca / www.facebook.com/druckfarben.
Hard Rock Heaven 