CHAMBERS OF ROCK

Wednesday January 4th, 2012

2012-01-04T06:51:00.002-05:00

Remembering Phillip Lynott

Born August 1949 - Died January 1986

RIP

Here's some memories that I have, where I met Phil Lynott backstage and had him sign some single covers ...

Thanks Phil!

My biggest regret as a young lad, I spent so much of my money on singles, albums, cassettes, concert tickets, etc that I never bought myself a camera ... Huge regrets, considering how many shows I went to.

'Sarah' was a single from the 'Black Rose' album, from 1979.

Back cover of the 'Chinatown' single from 1980. Actually both Brian Downey and Scott Gorham both signed this too, but sadly with the cover so dark, you really can't see that so good here.

Phillip Lynott ... What a character, great singer, writer, bassist and so much more.

The man to me, was the greatest frontman live, ever! RIP Phil, you were the best and your memory remains with me of some really fantastic live shows!

If you've never seen the Thin Lizzy 'Behind the Music' from VH1, now's you chance on You Tube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z80XDyssoMI&feature=share

Remembering the late great Mr. Philip Lynott RIP.
20 August 1949 - 4 January 1986

News Update for Tuesday January 3rd, 2012

2012-01-03T01:09:00.000-05:00

Are Van Halen to spill the beans on Thursday, at New York gig?

OK, here we go again ... Another rumour or fact ..?

Chances are this time, it's fact, as the word over at the Van Halen news desk website - www.VHND.com - is that they ARE aware that reporters across New York are being invited to a special one off gig at the city's Cafe Wha? in Greenwich Village.

VHND.com has learned this from a report by Rolling Stone's Andy Greene, so if this is wrong, unlike the Grammy fiasco that never was, there IS at least one name that has leaked this information.

At the Van Halen official website, they have already given away that the US tour dates are to be revealed on January 5th, 2012 and I guess this gig is as good as any to do so!

Word is that the band will play a 45 minute set, their first public live performance since the 2007/8 tour.

The venue seems a strange launch pad, as it only has a 250 seating capacity, but there's apparently a connection with the place in so much as David Lee Roth's Uncle, Manny Roth used to own and operate the place, back in Jimi Hendrix' days.

The full story can be checked out here: http://www.vhnd.com/ and original Rolling Stone online magazine link:

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/van-halen-to-perform-at-new-yorks-cafe-wha-this-thursday-20120102

Hopefully the OFFICIAL Van Halen website will actually provide confirmed information around or after events on Thursday, that link is here: http://www.van-halen.com/

Alice Cooper and Steven Tyler jamming together

Alice Cooper and Steven Tyler performed on New Year's Eve at Mala Wailea, located at the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort and Spa Overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the Hawaiian Islands of Lanai and Kaho`olawe.

Steven Tyler joined current and former members of Alice Cooper's band (Damon Johnson - guitar, Glen Sobel - drums, Tommy Henriksen - guitar, Chuck Garric - bass) for a New Years Eve celebration in Maui at a private benefit event.

The night also saw Alice and his band play host to and backup several other industry heavy weights such as Pat Simmons and Michael McDonald of the Doobie Brothers, Weird Al Yankovic, Mike Meyers (performing "BBC"), producer Bob Rock and others.

The event was emceed by Tom Arnold with several other celebrities in attendance.

Video footage of 'Come Together' can be seen below at the following link:

http://youtu.be/SX63mUW0-B0

Official weblinks:

http://alicecooper.com/

http://www.steventyler.com/

Two New World Stage gigs announced at JimPeterik.com

Yes, former Survivor player and the man behind the classy Pride of Lions and Lifeforce as well as many more hit songs for so many rockers, Jim Peterik is getting his excellent side project World Stage out live again!

The downside, it's just two dates folks and yes, you probably guessed it, Jim is again playing on his own doorstep.

The two shows are in fact in the next week or so and are pretty low key gigs, so if you can get there ... Get there!

McAninch Arts Center, Mainstage, Glen Ellyn, IL

Friday, January 13, 2012 starting at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Tickets from $45 (Youths) / $55 adults up to $80 for 1st / 2nd rows

Ticket details at:

http://home.cod.edu/atthemac

and

Lincoln-Way High School Auditorium, New Lenox, IL

Saturday, January 14th, 2012

Details call: +1 (815) 462-6400

For more details on what is guaranteed to be an all star show, featuring:

JIM PETERIK, IOM, formerly Survivor, Lifeforce
THE IDES OF MARCH (Jim Peterik, Bob Bergland, Mike Borch, Larry Millas, Scott May, Dave Shalberg, Tim Bales (newest member)
MIKE RENO, Loverboy
KELLY KEAGY, Night Ranger
ANTHONY GOMES
SIJAY
LISA MCCLOWRY
STEVE OLIVER
RIK EMMETT, Triumph

Go to:

http://jimpeterik.com/

Ex-Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camper Heather Williams releases new music

From the opening power-chords of Push It To The Limit, to the ethereal guitar/vocal jam of Cloud Nine, this CD will have you instantly hooked on Heather Williams!

The new 4 song EP captures the thrill and excitement of her full-throttle lifestyle!

Heather's voice is sultry yet powerful as she belts her way through this series of classically written, hook-driven, heavy rock songs. Breaking Me Down, is a memorable ballad with heart-felt vocals and a sweet guitar solo. Nothing Left To Lose, features a heavier vibe with dark guitar tones and a killer riff. All songs were written in collaboration with Steve Brown and showcase some outstanding guitar work from industry veterans Paul Crook (Meatloaf) and Eddie Ojeda (Twisted Sister).

The entire CD sounds tight and polished proving that Heather Williams is more than ready!

'Push It To The Limit' video over on You Tube:

http://youtu.be/GHcQ4n715VE

1-"PUSH IT TO THE LIMIT" 3:54

Written by STEVE BROWN & HEATHER WILLIAMS

2- "BREAKING ME DOWN" 4:26

Written by STEVE BROWN

3- "NOTHING LEFT TO LOSE" 2:58

Written by STEVE BROWN

4- "SPEAKIN' FROM CLOUD NINE" 4:30

Written by STEVE BROWN

THE PLAYERS:

*GUITARS - STEVE BROWN and HEATHER WILLIAMS
*BASS - MARK SLY and STEVE BROWN
*DRUMS - DENNIS ZIMMER*BACKING VOCALS BY STEVE BROWN, ELAINE TUTTLE and KATIE FOLEY
*LOOPS and PROGRAMMING - STEVE BROWN
*GUITAR SOLO ON "PUSH IT TO THE LIMIT" by PAUL CROOK
*GUITAR SOLO ON "BREAKING ME DOWN" and "SPEAKING FROM CLOUD NINE" by EDDIE OJEDA
* Additional Guitar work by ADAM REIVER

PRODUCED , ENGINEERED AND MIXED BY STEVE BROWN AT MOJO VEGAS RECORDING CO.- RINGWOOD, NJ Except "BREAKING ME DOWN" MIXED BY CHUCK ALKAZIAN AT PEARL SOUND STUDIOS - CANTON, MI, MASTERED BY JIM DeSALVO AT BEANSTUDIO MASTERING

Official weblinks:

www.Heather-Williams.com

http://www.heathergear.com/

Special slight update for Monday January 2nd, 2012

2012-01-02T12:50:00.000-05:00

Phillip Lynott remembered and special show to be broadcast on Ireland's RTE

(Phil Lynott photo from http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/)

On January 4th, 1986, the world of rock sadly lost a legendary singer / frontman / bassist / songwriter / producer and all round entertainer in former Thin Lizzy / Grand Slam mainman Phillip Lynott.

The man, his music and poetry had such an impact on so many people and not just musicians, that his memory remains constant in the minds of so many of us still today.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I don't think - IMO - I have ever been as impressed in a live gig situation by anyone, as much as when I saw Phil fronting Thin Lizzy. He was a star, who loved the spotlight. Sadly he also loved the life that came with it, just a little too much as he paid the price for his overindulgence, that fateful day, when his bodys' immune system could fight no more against the pneumonia that had taken a hold of the man's body. His immune system sadly did not have the resources left to put up any more fight.

A great loss indeed, still to this day.

As I say his memory does live on in so many people and to Ireland, he was really the country's first real international rock star and tonight on Ireland's RTE, a special show is to be broadcast in memory of the legend, as the anniversary of his passing closes in.

Details are:

Tonight Monday 2nd Jan, 2012 at 22:55 - 23:55pm

RTÉ One (Documentary)

Profile of the Thin Lizzy frontman.

http://www.rte.ie/tv/programmes/tv50_thephiliplynottarchive.html

For those international fans, like myself ..., RTE does usually rebroadcast certain shows here:

http://www.rte.ie/player/

Indeed it is most likely being broadcast tonight, as each year since his passing Phillip Lynott is remembered at the annual 'Vibe for Philo' event in Dublin and this year will be no different ...

The 25th Vibe for Philo will take place in Dublin on the 4th January 2011.

The Vibe for Philo is an annual commemoration event dedicated to Thin Lizzy frontman Phil Lynott and staged in Dublin on 4th January each year on the anniversary of his death. The show owes its origin to a personal request by Lynott to old friend Smiley Bolger in the aftermath of the 1981 Alternative Song Contest at McGonagles Nightclub in Dublin ...to “Do a Vibe for me sometime.” Following Lynott’s death Bolger set out to fulfil that promise, staging the first “Ode to a Blackman” show at the Northumberland Arms on Goodge Street, London, in 1987 featuring among others original Thin Lizzy Guitarist Eric Bell and Pogue Philip Chevron. After this it reverted to Dublin, Lynott’s hometown, where it has been staged ever since.

Since it’s inauguration in 1987 The Vibe for Philo has helped to inspire, nurture, and assist other such events in Toronto, Tokyo, Los Angeles, New York, Stockholm, Holland, Belgium, Scotland, The UK, Germany and Denmark, among others. Uniquely it has always been staged on January 4th, rather than the nearest weekend date as other shows have done. It provided the launch-venue for the Roisin Dubh Trust at the 6th Vibe, with which it works closely but is not directly involved with. However, Philips mother, Philomena, is a regular participant, and her address to the audience has become a regular highlight of each event.

Over the past 24 years Ex-Thin Lizzy members Eric Bell (1,4, 5, 10, 18, 20), Brian Downey (4, 5, 10, 11,12,) Brian Robertson (5, 9, 12, 15, 20), Scott Gorham (10), John Sykes (10), Darren Wharton (10, 13), Midge Ure (10, 17), and John “Irish” Earl (13, 15), have all participated in the Vibe. In addition Lynott’s other bands and associates such as Grandslam/ Three Musketeers/ Phil Lynott Soul Band (Doish Nagle, Laurence Archer, Robbie Brennan, Gus Isadore, Jerome Rimson), Orphanage (Pat Quigley, Joe Staunton ) as well as Jimmy Faulkner, Brush Shields, and Ditch Cassidy, have all played sets at the show.

Readings of Lynott’s poetry have been given by Jim Fitzpatrick (Artist/ Lizzy Album Cover Designer); Steve Collins (World Champion Boxer); and Street Poet Pat Ingelsby.

The annual 'Vibe for Philo' gig in Mr Lynott's memory takes place at Dublin's Button Factory on Wednesday.

For more information on the event, go here:

http://www.vibeforphilo.com/

In related news, an astonishing discovering has come to light, in the discovery of a hoard of rare and unreleased materials that belonged to Phil Lynott, that he left with a 'friend.'

In June 2012, a release of some of this material is due to take place, after screening by both original Thin Lizzy drummer Brian Downey and long time Lizzy guitarist, Scott Gorham.

For more information on this, go to:

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/entertainment/music/news/lost-thin-lizzy-tapes-resurface-26-years-after-phil-lynotts-death-16098025.html

I for one greatly look forward to seeing and hearing, what will be shared with us all.

Slight Update for Monday January 2nd, 2012

2012-01-02T00:22:00.001-05:00

Hi folks,

Well, Happy New Year to you all!

2012 is finally here and I wonder just what it will bring us all?

One thing is certain that relates to 'Chambers of Rock' ..., more rock news to share with you!

More reviews and I am really close to wrapping up one interview to share with you from last year, that I really think is still relevant and I really hope you agree with that when you get to read it.

I really hope that you all had a great Christmas and all is well ...

So ... No news update at this time, just have not had the time to do the runaround to all the artists sites as I usually do and it's late and Sunday has been a day of preparing for getting back to work and getting the kids ready to be taken care of, while Rhonda and I head back to the day jobs.

Ah well ....

There is an interesting piece about Peter Frampton suing Universal music for unpaid royalties on digital downloads of his material, that story you can check out here:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16353744

Also, talking of digital downloads, the UK version of The Sweet featuring original member Andy Scott is giving away a free digital download of a live album, that is titled '100% Live - Official Bootleg' and contains 13 tracks, including one new studio track.

You can find that download at their site, right here:

http://thesweet.com/download/

One thing though, this will only be available until January 8th, 2012!

Well, that's all I have for you right now folks, so hopefully you have a great week and tomorrow isn't too painful for those of you also heading back to work.

More to come folks!

Cheers, Al

Brief News Update for Saturday December 31st, 2011

2011-12-31T02:47:00.002-05:00

Update on the McAuley Schenker reunion tour

This is one tour not to be missed, that is in the US at least ..., read on.

Yeah, I know I've already said as much, but I can't say it enough, Michael Schenker (Scorpions, UFO, Contraband), one of the greatest guitarists in the world - My fav! :) - has reunited with vocalist Robin McAuley, who for the last five years has been touring with Survivor, in a line up that produced no new music, simply the promise thereof ..., a number of good live shows.

This update regarding the forthcoming tours, not just the US, but in Japan and Europe too has just been posted on Michael Schenker's website:

Michael Schenker will be touring “Temple Of Rock” with different line ups all around the world.

He will feature each of the three singers from the brand new “Temple Of Rock” album: Michael Voss, Robin McAuley and Doogie White.

The “Temple Of Rock World Tour” will start in the United States in February / March 2012 featuring Robin McAuley - Vocals, Elliott “Dean” Rubinson - Bass, Wayne Findlay - Keyboards and Guitar, and Pete Holmes - Drums.

Then at the end of March, Michael will be in Japan with Michael Voss - Vocals, Herman Rarebell - Drums, Elliott “Dean” Rubinson - Bass, and Wayne Findlay - Keyboards & Guitar.

In April/May the “Temple Of Rock” line up will tour Europe featuring Doogie White - Vocals, Herman Rarebell - Drums, Francis Buchholz - Bass and Wayne Findlay - Keyboards & Guitar. Michael is planning to eventually take each line up to all continents. Don’t miss the new album “Temple Of Rock.”

Perhaps the European dates with three former Scorpions, will provide a number of Scorpions songs in the bands set list?!

So there you have it, I for one feel very fortunate now living in the US, as when Robin was with M.S.G. the first time around, I never got to see that line up, but I really feel for European and Japanese fans.

I really don't know what to make of this and frankly I'm sure all it serves to do, is confuse fans even more.

Don't get me wrong I think both Doogie White and Michael Voss are good in their own right, but what is the purpose behind having a different vocalist behind each set of tour dates ...?

For more info on Michael Schenkers activities, go to:

http://www.michaelschenkerhimself.com

H.E.A.T - BRAND NEW SOUND CLIP - NEW ALBUM OUT 2012

The first sign from H.E.A.T is here, so says producer Tobias Lindell, who's been working on the bands current album recording.

A very very short sound clip is up and running for you at the link down below. I think you can hear what´s coming!

This album will kick some ass in 2012.

Direct link:

http://soundcloud.com/tobias_lindell/heat-2012

Swedish rockers H.E.A.T. were formed in early 2007, they released their debut self titled album in 2008 and then their second 'Freedom Rock' in 2010.

They've already caused quite a stir among the rock scene in a very short space of time, with their own brand of hard rock.

The band's line up is:

Erik Grönwall: Vocals
Dave Dalone: Guitars
Eric Rivers: Guitars
Jona Tee: Keyboards
Jimmy Jay: Bass
Crash: Drums

2012 brings a new album from the band, as yet untitled and hopefully for the many fans, new live dates!

Keep up with H.E.A.T. at:

http://www.heatsweden.com

http://www.facebook.com/#!/heatsweden

LIBERTY N JUSTICE: HELL’S COMING …

Roxx Productions along with Liberty ‘n’ Justice are very pleased to announce for LNJ’s 20th Anniversary (1992-2012) the release of their 11th studio album ‘Hell is coming to Breakfast’. This marks the bands second release on Roxx Records after a successful partnership on the Limited Edition charity CD entitled ‘Chasing a Cure LP’ that the two teamed up on earlier in 2011. ‘Hell is coming to Breakfast' is set for release on March 1, 2012 with pre-sales beginning now.

Justin Murr of Liberty ‘n’ Justice has this to say about the release… “We recorded so many songs for our yet to be released 2 CD project entitled ‘The Cigar Chronicles’ and with the delay on this release not happening until late in 2012 or early 2013 we didn’t want the fans to have to wait that long to get some new LNJ in their hands. So when Bill (Roxx) and Roxx Records approached me and asked if we had anything else up our sleeves we could release, we realized we had to many songs that were not all going to fit on ‘Cigar’ so we took the 6 songs that we couldn’t fit and then recorded another brand new song which is the title track ‘Hell is coming to breakfast’ especially for this release and added 5 more previously unreleased rare cuts and demos just for this one, I am really excited for our fans to hear this collection”
Bill from Roxx Records had this to say about the new release “We are very excited to be working with Justin and Liberty ‘n’ Justice once again, especially in the bands twentieth year! Justin and all the wonderful artists he works with continue to release nothing but top notch material and after twenty years it is just amazing how they keep coming up with so many great Melodic Rock songs again and again and again”
In addition to the 7 brand new tracks and various demos and rarities we are very excited to be able to include on this release and on CD for the very first time ever the original acoustic demo version of ‘Sin’ featuring the late great Jani Lane of Warrant out front on vocals.

Full Track Listing …
1. "Hell Is Coming To Breakfast" Seann Nichols (Adler’s Appetite / Tarsha), JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ)

2. "Madhatter" Donnie Vie (Enuff Z' Nuff), JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Chris Dickens (Mission Of One) and Tommy Denander

3. "Whack A Mole" Johnny Lima, JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Jerry Johnson (SAINT) and Richard Lynch (SAINT)

4."Thankful Heart" Philip Bardowell (MAGDALEN/Unruly Child), Lynn Louise Lowrey (Vixen/Testify) and Anthony Gravley

5. "Nakatomi Plaza" JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Greg Bishop (X-Sinner) and Scott Weisenborn (Testify)

6. "Stretch Armstrong" Louis St August (Mass), JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ) and Keri Kelli (Alice Cooper)

. "Get Down" Tony Mills (TNT/ Shy), Mark Allen Lanoue (Chasing Karma/ Bilioxi), and Anthony Gravley

8. "Your Memory Just Won't Do" [Previously unreleased on CD] David Cagle, Alex Grossi (Quiet Riot) and CJ Snare (Firehouse)

9. "Thy will be done" [Demo] Jamie Rowe (Guardian)

10.”What do you believe?" [Original demo of ‘Do what you believe’] Mike Ledesma (FAR CRY), Vic Rivera (Crunch)

11. "Monkey Dance" [Alternate Mix] Jack Russell (Great White)

12. "Sin" [Original Acoustic Demo] Jani Lane (Warrant)

This is a Limited Edition CD Release for full details including pre-sale information and special packages please visit:

http://www.roxxproductions.com/

About Roxx Productions:

ROXX RECORDS is an indie label specializing in Limited Edition Releases focusing specifically in the Christian Rock and Metal scene. Working with both Brand New Artists and some of the Artists that have helped and continue to help define the genre!

Music documentary on the cards for local Windsor, Ontario band scene

OK, so this one is close to home, but it's certainly interesting stuff about the local music scene in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, right across the Detroit river.

The whole thing is the brainchild of one Jeffrey David, local musician, radio host, perhaps better known as 'Big JD,' the man behind weekly radio show here, "U Talkin' 2 Me" on CJAM 99.1 FM, Windsor / Detroit radio station.

He shared with me a little info on the whole project as follows ...

'Well, I'm currently writing/directing a new music documentary. It's about music being a universal language and it's based on local Windsor bands. We will shoot the actual "gig" - to launch the documentary - January 14th at FM Lounge in Windsor.

My film company is OMS Entertainment and along with Evil Punkin Productions we are working on this film. We will soon have a page up too for submissions of video and music for the film. Again, it's all Windsor, Ontario based but it's a big deal over here.

It's to be called "4 On The Floor."

Editor's note: There's something special about the whole event, that I better not reveal anymore on, that JD also shared ...

JD went on to say, "Then we will have interviews all about music here in Windsor through the years. Once the submission form is posted online is when I personally feel it's official, but it is official, LOL. We have a production team, the band, the venue, a Twitter page and a Facebook page ...

The submission form is just the final piece to have it put out there.

We have someone we are assigning to man the Twitter and FB pages, lined up ..."

Facebook page - With just the wall active right now:

http://www.facebook.com/media/albums/?id=100000670193086#!/pages/4-On-The-Floor-Film/295660137145110

Follow on Twitter: @4onthefloorfilm

JD's Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/utalkin2mewithbigjd?ref=nf&sk=wall#!/bigjdbigjd

Good luck with it all JD!

And finally .....

So folks, I thought this was kind of cool and as the year wraps up, I wanted to share a related bit of information with you that I feel quite pleased about, but it's not happened yet but hopefully will soon.

Big JD is due to interview yours truly, in due course - i.e. In the coming months. - for his weekly show "U Talkin' 2 Me" - http://www.facebook.com/utalkin2mewithbigjd?ref=nf&sk=wall#!/utalkin2mewithbigjd - I feel kind of honoured to have been asked to do this to be honest, as it's a show that has previously featured interviews with Thin Lizzy's Scott Gorham and Canadian rockers Anvil, to name a couple of artists.

Website: http://www.utalkin2me.ca/

More details on the confirmed date of this event to follow. :)

Well, this will be my last posting ... - Probably ... - for 2011 and I sincerely apologize to so many people, that have sent me promo materials for review that I have not got to post yet ... Heck, half of them I never even got to listen to! Best laid plans etc. With so much personal stuff going on in my life and the last quarter of the year, with family back home in the UK, changing my day job and keeping up with family life, as anyone knows, the latter two are enough stress for any sane person, which perhaps that last point is a tough claim to make! LOL!

I would just like to take the opportunity though to wish each and every one of you a truly Happy or Happier and certainly more prosperous New Year in 2012.

I know the US economy has had a rough time but this past year has certainly shown elements of improvements and I do know that the rest of the world has certainly had more than it's fair share of troubles and tragedies with the various disasters that occurred.

A massive thank you all, once again for all that you have done in sticking with me at 'Chambers of Rock.' I sincerely hope the site moves on to better things and that I can keep you all, relatively entertained in 2012!

So as we say a big old goodbye to 2011, I wish you all a Very, VERY Happy New Year for 2012!

Cheers,

Al and the Williams clan at the Chambers of Rock abode!

Brief News Update for Wednesday December 28th, 2012

2011-12-28T11:49:00.001-05:00

Rik Emmett jams on Rush track 'Red Barchetta'

For the first time Rik Emmett of the classic Canadian rock power trio TRIUMPH sang and played guitar in a unique “virtual collaboration” with a member of another legendary Canadian rock power trio, Rush. Rik performed as a guest artist with fantasy rock band “Sonic Elements” on a cover of the song ‘Red Barchetta’ which features drums performed by legendary Rush drummer Neil Peart via a music software sample library called “Neil Peart Drums” by Sonic Reality.

Dave Kerzner, CEO and founder of Sonic Reality, put together a unique music project called “Sonic Elements” where various singers and musicians of progressive rock perform and record along with sampled musical elements from the music software Sonic Reality creates for musicians.

“At Sonic Reality we record (aka “sample”) the sounds of musical instruments and drum grooves so that musicians can use these deluxe sound elements in their own music on the computer or mobile devices.” says Kerzner “I created the Sonic Elements music project to not only show what these inspiring Sonic Reality sounds are like in musical context but to also explore giving songs an alternate reality with different fantasy combinations of musicians and authentic sounds.”

A premium example of such a fantasy rock scenario is ‘Red Barchetta’ featuring Rik Emmett which is another take on the classic Rush song with new life brought to it by Rik’s passionate performance and interpretation.

Listen to an audio clip preview of ‘Red Barchetta’ featuring Rik Emmett:

http://soundcloud.com/sonicelements/red-barchetta-feat-rick-emmett

Here’s what Rik Emmett had to say about the project:
“It was such a great day in the studio, jamming out to Neil’s incredible tracks, getting to play virtual ‘basement band’ and laying down my versions of Geddy and Alex parts. I felt like I had been transported back to 1980 for an afternoon. ‘Red Barchetta’ is one of my absolute fave RUSH songs… like an exciting, Ray Bradbury-esque SF short story, told by a progressive rock band… so to get a crack at it, with the actual drum takes that Neil performed, was an ‘artistic’ challenge – almost like accepting a dare.” Says Emmett “This is like “Rock Band” for the seriously, deeply committed.”

The full release of the song ‘Red Barchetta’ by Sonic Elements featuring Rik Emmett is coming in Q1, 2012 and is part of a larger collection of songs with Sonic Elements and other guest artists performing with Neil Peart Drums by Sonic Reality.

Follow progress on the Sonic Elements project:

Sonic Reality and Neil Peart Drums:Facebook – www.facebook.com/sonicelements
YouTube – www.youtube.com/sonicelementschannel
Rik Emmett – www.rikemmett.com

—–

About the Sonic Elements project and Neil Peart Drums:

Dave Kerzner of the music software company Sonic Reality has headed up a unique “virtual fantasy rock band” called “Sonic Elements” combining the sounds and performances captured in Sonic Reality music software and sound library products such as Neil Peart Drums with performances of guest musicians like Rik Emmett on classic covers like ‘Red Barchetta’ by Rush. Collaborating through the use of the sample library “Neil Peart Drums” which was performed by legendary Rush drummer Neil Peart and recorded by top producer Nick Raskulinecz is something that any musician who owns the product can do. Neil’s digitally recreated DW® Snakes and Arrows drum kit in software or soon to be released audio grooves to play along to or loops can be used in any recording software on the Mac, PC or iPad™. To celebrate that concept Sonic Elements have been working up an entire Rush tribute album as well as original songs all built around Neil Peart Drums with various guest guitarists, bass players and vocalists including Rik Emmett (Triumph), Billy Sherwood (Yes, Circa), John Wesley (Porcupine Tree, Marillion) and many other classic and progressive rock musicians.

Marco Mendoza returns home from Europe for hometown gig

After a successful series of European solo dates in Denmark, Austria, Italy and Germany, bassist / vocalist Marco Mendoza returns back to L.A. for a low key gig at his favourite club, The Baked Potato.

This Friday night, December 30th, 2011, Marco will be joined by Jeff Kollman (Guitars) and Joel Tayloer on drums, to kick out some rockin' R 'n' B and jazz jams!

Entrance is $20.00

For more details:

The Baked Potato
3787 Cahuenga Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604

Phone: 818-980-1615

http://www.thebakedpotato.com/

Good luck Marco, so ..., what's new in 2012 I wonder?

Perhap we'll get to see / hear that album with Neal Schon and Deen Castronova ..., I wish!

Keep up with Marco at:

http://www.marcomendoza.com/

QUEENSRYCHE FRONT MAN GEOFF TATE “AND FRIENDS” TO PERFORM SELECT, ALL-ACOUSTIC DATES ON THE WEST COAST BEGINNING IN JANUARY

Geoff Tate Photo by: Valerie Nerres

After touring extensively in 2011 with his band, Queensryche, lead singer Geoff Tate has announced that he will be doing a handful of acoustic solo dates billed as “Geoff Tate and Friends” beginning on Friday, January 27 at The Canyon Club in Agoura Hills, California.

What can fans expect on the brief run of dates?

According to Tate, he’ll be “playing acoustic renditions of songs from my solo album as well as some of my favorite Queensryche songs.” And that certainly gives him a lot to choose from…

Not one to remain idle, Tate is anxious to hit the road again next year despite an incredibly busy 2011 that found the band performing over 75 dates along their 30th Anniversary tour primarily in support of their 12th studio album, Dedicated to Chaos (Roadrunner Records/Loud & Proud), that was released in the summer.

Towards the end of the tour, Geoff and the band pulled out “all the stops” by performing Rage for Order in its entirety for the first time ever (New York City on Halloween) and Operation: Mindcrime from beginning to end on this year’s ShipRocked Cruise (with In This Moment’s Maria Brink handling vocal chores as “Sister Mary”) for the first time in three years.

Both shows were a pure treat for fans!

“Mindcrime” (1988) is universally respected as a classic concept release about rock, revenge and redemption and, ultimately, regarded as one of the most important and essential hard rock records in the genre’s expansive canon. 1990′s follow-up, Empire, yielded a number one single, the Grammy-nominated ballad “Silent Lucidity,” which Queensryche performed at the 1992 Grammy Awards accompanied by a supporting orchestra.

In 2006, the band released Operation: Mindcrime II, a scorching sequel to their original. The band then hit the road performing both albums Operation: Mindcrime and Operation: Mindcrime II back-to-back in their entirety in an incredible theatrical presentation throughout the year. The final performance was recorded at The Moore Theatre in Seattle that October and the Mindcrime at the Moore double CD/DVD release debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Music DVD Chart and eventually reached gold status.

It’s hard to believe it’s been 30 years and more than 20 million albums sold worldwide later…

For 2012, Queensryche has plenty up its sleeve…

Geoff’s acoustic performances are just the beginning of what promises to be another exciting year.

For more information, please view the official Queensryche website at www.queensryche.com

Happy Holidays!

Those live dates are:

Jan-26 Thu San Diego, CA        Anthology
Jan-27 Fri Agoura Hills         Canyon
Jan-29 Sun San Juan Cap         Coach House
Jan-31 Tue Grass Valley, CA     Center for the Arts
Feb-01 Wed Chico, CA            El Rey
Feb-02 Thu Napa, CA             Uptown
Feb-04 Sat Snqoualmie, WA       Finapalooza

Quick Update for Monday December 26th, 2011

2011-12-26T06:03:00.001-05:00

Van Halen Tour 2012 Officially announced!

A very brief update only folks ...

A quick check - Actually - on Facebook revealed this Van Halen news to me!

Yes, folks, here we go, official statement from Van Halen's official website, the 2012 tour is ON and the first tickets go onslae January 10th, 2012!

The EPK captured at You Tube reveals as much:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_profilepage&v=nL7kp2zzcs4

The down side as of right now, is neither the Van Halen Newsdesk - At this time 5.50am (EST) Monday morning 26th December - or the official Van Halen site, show the dates or cities that the band will play in right now ...

I even tried Pollstar, and the Van Halen search at this time, also revealed nothing:

http://www.pollstar.com/resultsArtist.aspx?ID=3627&SortBy=Date&mv=1

Anymore updates, I'll of course let you know!

One though, this has been posted throught the www.VHND.com site ... If this is the album cover below though, cheesy or what?!

Official weblinks:

http://www.van-halen.com/

http://www.vhnd.com/

http://www.facebook.com/#!/VanHalen

http://www.myspace.com/vanhalen

Brian Howe – Emotions E.P. review

2011-12-24T01:43:00.001-05:00

Brian Howe – Emotions E.P. review

Released through: iTunes / Amazon Release date: Available now

Following 2010’s excellent ‘Circus Bar’ album from the former Bad Company / Ted Nugent lead vocalist Brian Howe, I for one couldn’t wait to hear the follow up.

Around Christmas of last year Brian had told me that he was working on the follow up album with Brooks Paschal again and this one was already sounding better than ‘Circus Bar’ … I was thinking ‘Wow!’

Last year at Christmas, he released a taster of what was to come quality wise in the single, ‘Christmas’ which is a song that builds up through the laid back verses into a chorus that rocks in a melodic rock fashion, that was the perfect next step from ‘Circus Bar.’

Around April / May time frame of this year, Brian had told me he wasn’t going to record another album and that he was done with recording, because of so much free downloading, what was the point?

He said that his ‘Circus Bar’ album had been made available – to those who looked – as a free download around two weeks or so prior to its release … Seriously folks, is there no justice in this world?! That’s bad …

Back around August, Brian said he planned to put out an E.P., of four or five new tracks, which would turn out to be this, the ‘Emotions E.P.’

He said it was different and it reflected how he felt about a number of things, someone he loved dearly, a friend he lost through alcohol and some other stuff …

It also included the ‘Christmas’ single for those that didn’t get it the first time around.

The opening track ‘I’m There’ starts slow, with a chug along riff and then the chorus kicks in and it’s as catchy as any of his songs come on ‘Circus Bar.’ Good one Brian!

‘Stringless Kite’ next is a laid back acoustic driven pop rock number, that then picks up the pace as the song goes on, written in a sub power ballad format. Nice!

Next song is ‘Drinking’ and comes across as a very emotional number, as the E.P.’s title suggests.

Deep track indeed, as the songs title suggests.

‘Runaway Train’ next has an interesting tempo through the verse, kind of laid back and then it picks up more in the choruses, that switch to a bridge midway through and then it kind of stops quite suddenly.

Still a good song though.

Final track is ‘Christmas’ and Brian told me that Christmas has never been the best time for him, but this really is a great, well written emotional song from the man, sung in his classic fashion.

I think it’s a very strong song that with a little airplay could find Brian with a sure fire hit, as there are many Brian Howe fans out there that may not even be aware of this at all, I’m sure.

So that’s all that’s here on display here and to be honest, if Brian doesn’t record anything again, I think it’s very sad.

This E.P. comes out as a self-financed deal, hence being sold through just Amazon and iTunes, without much plug at all.

To be honest, barring people seeing the odd review of this here and there, if they are not followers of Brian on Facebook, chances are fans of Brian Howe are going to miss out, so if you know a fan of his voice, go ahead and spread the word!

Thanks for the music Brian, keep it coming, please!

Don’t quit on us yet mate, you have certainly still got it mate and I’m only disappointed that you haven’t given us a whole album of material.

This is good work indeed, but keep in mind, it is meant to be emotional music and in places, a little deep, but that’s what Brian is writing about here so I can accept that.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Official Weblink:

Brain Howe on Facebook

Europe ‘Live at Shepherd’s Bush, London’ DVD review

2011-12-23T17:46:00.000-05:00

Europe ‘Live at Shepherd’s Bush, London’ DVD review

Released on: MVD Visual. Release date: Available now

Well, so much for keeping these reviews down to a minimum in content, phew!

That said, these one deserves the attention, well worth checking out.

Europe is a band that has yet to really break through to America and win American hearts over, but it’s not for lack of trying.

They are probably best known for their album, ‘The Final Countdown’ back in 1986/7. They have tried returning to the States in time to time, but alas so far to little avail, which is a huge shame, as when the band played here last, about five years back, they were playing some club gigs, that the bands seemed to really enjoy doing, but clearly wasn't enough for them to consider coming back again since. I hope that view changes, as I'd love to see them again.

Formed in Sweden in the early 80s, their debut self titled album was released in 1983 and then 'Wings of Tomorrow' - Great album! - in 1984. Following the success of ‘The Final Countdown,’ they have continued to go from strength to strength across Europe in and other parts of the world up until the early 90s when they decided to take a rest from, the band Europe and pursue their own solo projects respectively.

At the tail end of 1999 the band reunited to re-record a special version of 'The Final Countdown' to celebrate coming into the new millennium. This sparked great interest in the band again and they decided to try with Europe once more, a couple of years on.

In 2004 the band released a new album, ‘Start from the Dark,’ which clearly had a darker and more edgy sound, is actually managed to win them new fans and almost a fresh start.

They followed this album up with the ‘Secret Society’ and then in 2009 the latest album, ‘Last look at Eden.’

This DVD brings fans right up to date, recorded at London’s Shepherds Bush Empire in February of 2011, the band plowed through an excellent rock set.

‘Last look at Eden’ opens proceedings in powerful fashion, before the band rocks even harder with ‘The Beast.’

Anyone that still thinks of Europe as a ‘Parp, parp,’ band à la ‘The Final Countdown’ era is very much mistaken.

‘The Beast’ is seriously hard edged and clearly the fans enjoy this on their supportive response.

‘Rock the Night’ from the ‘… Countdown’ album comes up next and has always rocked the crowd like a ‘good ‘un’ and has perhaps been one of the most played Europe songs on radio today and Joey (Tempest), knows it’s popularity by getting the crowd to sing along.

I have to add here, that John Norum’s performances are nothing less than spectacular and on this occasion it is no different!

Then the band dips back further into their past, to the 'Wings of Tomorrow’ album with ‘Scream of Anger.’

To me it bears similarities to Europe’s favorite bands that inspired them like UFO, Deep Purple and Thin Lizzy.

Great stuff, a great guitar solo yet again from John Norum and thunderous powerhouse drumming from Ian Haughland.

Not to mention Jon Levin on bass is as solid as a rock!

After some atmospheric keyboard wizardry from Mic Michali, the band joins in for next song ‘No Stone Unturned,’ which is a massive epic like track, from ‘Last look at Eden.’

It is full of great all round performances from the whole band. Guitar and keyboard solos, clever drumming, great baselines and great vocals from Joey Tempest.

A nice piano introduction the mighty power ballad 'Carrie' follows next. Class stuff indeed!

Back to the hard rock next with ‘The Getaway Plan’ which is a seriously edgy number that rocks the house!

Joey then stops things to dedicate this next song to the memory of Gary Moore (RIP) by explaining that it was the playing of guys like this that inspired the band and then he says ‘Gary Moore this one’s for you!’

‘The Loner’ is a great track that I first remember hearing Gary Moore playing on Cozy Powell’s ‘Over the Top’ album, back in the day and John Norum's guitar playing here is top notch.

A worthy tribute indeed.

‘The Seventh Sign’ is next from the hugely underrated ‘Prisoners in Paradise’ album and a track co-written by former guitarist Kee Marcello who had stepped into Europe to tour with the band on ‘The Final Countdown’ tour and then subsequent albums, until the split in the mid-90’s.

It’s a really killer, dirty rockin’ track! Great stuff!

The next track is introduced as a song that started life in San Francisco when the band were writing for ‘Prisoners …’ and then it reappeared as they were writing for ‘Last Look At Eden.’ As Joey explains that three years ago his son Jamie was born, in a London hospital, ‘as a very tired Papa, I started scribbling the words to this next song, it’s called ‘New Love In Town.’

The song is a great big emotional power ballad is the greatest possible sense of the word. Brilliant track indeed!

Then it’s ‘Love is Not the Enemy,’ which kind of reminds me a lot of something Phil Lynott would’ve written for Thin Lizzy in places. It’s killer!

Next is ‘More Than Meets the Eye’ from ‘Out of this World’ which is just great to hear again, as I thought that was a class album.

Time for a drum solo from Ian Haughland next as he rocks along with a backing track of the ‘William Tell Overture,’ and it’s not too shabby, but sorry Ian, not a patch on some of those epics we used to get when Cozy Powell would drum along with classic pieces.

‘Always The Pretender’ starts gently and then the rock kicks in and this is an excellent track from the ‘Secret Society’ that gave them a huge hit in their home country. It’s a track of light and dark, that’s incredibly strong and then the band play the title track from their comeback album, ‘Start From The Dark.’

It’s a song that has great impact, but it seems that sadly the Shepherd’s Bush’s crowd isn’t into it as much as the song and band deserves, it’s an excellent track, which the crowd do applaud at the end.

‘Superstitious’ from ‘Out of this World’ is a better known song in the UK for the band and it does have a better impact on the crowd of the evening. The band then goes into a sub-reggae groove before building back up again and clearly the crowd is more into it, as the song closes the main set of the evening.

The band then return to present a new song in the shape of ‘Doghouse,’ which to a degree reminds me a little of M.S.G., not least perhaps because of John Norum’s, Michael Schenker like playing. It’s really not too bad at all.

Finally, the band could not escape any gig I guess without playing their breakthrough song from around the world, ‘The Final Countdown,’ to close proceedings.

I have to say, when I think back to how I saw Europe, back in 80’s in the UK and how the crowd responded, sadly it’s disappointing to not see a more appreciative response from the UK’s capital show.

Perhaps guys next time record the show in another UK city, not London. Shame …

Either way, I think it’s a great live show and worthy of a strong rating.

There’s bonus footage here too from their homeland, at a two big gigs, the first in Stockholm’s Ice Stadium, it’s a massive show that totally shows the band a lot more respect on the eight songs they have here.

Then there are four tracks performed from a show from a Swedish amusement park that kicks off with some pyro’s, excellent stuff!

There’s also some behind the scenes footage from the Shepherd’s Bush gig, with band interviews and more and a couple of promo video’s for both ‘Last Look At Eden’ and ‘New Love In Town.’

Overall, I think this a great DVD, loads on it to watch, all very worthwhile stuff worth checking out.

If you don’t already have it, maybe ask for it as a late Christmas stocking filler! Ha ha!

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Official band website:

http://www.europetheband.com/

Saxon – Call To Arms album review

2011-12-23T15:03:00.000-05:00

Saxon – Call To Arms album review

Released on: Udr label Release date: Available now.

OK folks, this is the first of a few reviews that will unfortunately have to be a little briefer than previous reviews, as there's so many to try and catch up on, that said, it's still longer than I'd planned on it being!

This absolutely stunned me from Saxon as their last few releases, well actually for me, most of their stuff for some time has not grabbed me, the last album of theirs I tried was 2008’s ‘Lionheart’ believing the press releases that it was a return to the traditional Saxon sound of old. Far from it for me …

'Call To Arms' is huge step in the right direction and I love what they’ve got here.

The recent US tour was a good one, that took in Detroit this time and they put on a great show here and I can’t recommend enough, that you should check the band out, they are really on their game now, with an excellent album to back it up!

Link:

http://chambersofrock.blogspot.com/2011/10/saxon-live-at-blondies-detroit-gig.html

The opening track here ‘Hammer of the Gods’ is absolutely as good as anything the band has ever done before and it kind of reminds me of a stronger, yes stronger ‘Princess of the Night.’ Brilliant!

Then with ‘Back in ‘79’ it's a real ‘Denim and Leather’ style rocker, good memories here!

‘Against the Odds’ is a great solid and pacey rocker too!

I can’t believe what ‘Mists of Avalon’ conjures up, it’s great, keyboard flurries at the beginning, yes, keys!

The track then gets rocking in fine fashion, with perhaps a slightly commercial touch to it. Excellent!

Nice guitar work throughout the album and solid stuff on drums and bass, Biff Byford has certainly got possibly the best line up of Saxon ever here, brilliant stuff!

There’s two versions of title track ‘Call to Arms’ and next up is the standard version, which starts with dramatic style possibly a modern day ‘Dallas 1pm’ and it’s a very well written track indeed.

‘Chasing the Bullet’ is a good old steady rocker and already a live favourite!

OK, those speed metal fans of Saxon will be very pleased with ‘Afterburner’ as it powers along with Biff spitting out the lyrics with an angry passion indeed.

Slight Priest / Maiden elements about this one too …

Gotta love next track ‘When Doomsday Comes (Hybrid Theory)’ it’s like it conjures up thoughts of conceptual album about it and it has a riff here not unlike Deep Purple’s ‘Perfect Strangers.’ Maybe that’s why I love it! LOL!

‘No Rest For the Wicked’ sounds like Saxon’s twist on Metallica!

There’s a certain something about ‘Ballad of the Working Man’ that’s bring back memories of classic traditional Saxon, without doubt and it’s another great solid track here.

The album closes with the other version of ‘Call To Arms,’ played alongside a full blown orchestra.

It’s brilliant, it’s sounds so rich and the band together with the orchestra sound great, perfect song for it.

There’s also a bonus live album with this version, which is from Saxon’s performance at Donington’s Monster’s of Rock festival, the first year it ever happened in 1980, alongside Rainbow, Judas Priest, Scorpions, April Wine, Riot and Touch. It’s a fun if short live album, as there were early on the bill, nice bonus though.

Overall, 'Call To Arms' is simply a really strong album and based on this, I'm looking forward to the next one!

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Official band website:

http://www.saxon747.com/

Update for Friday December 23rd, 2012

2011-12-23T10:40:00.001-05:00

Well Hi there folks,

I had hoped to bring you a news update today to close out news updates info for the year, unfortunately, trying to explain to an excited five and six year old that Daddy will come and play as soon as he gets this done ... Doesn't seem to sink in bless 'em!

It is Christmas time, yes, Christmas time and if there's those of you offended by me saying that, sorry but it's my belief and that's that ...!

Either way I do wish you all the very best for a safe and happy holiday, a very Merry Christmas to all and I for one am looking forward to a fantastic New Year in 2012!

You guys are all great and I thank you all sincerely for sticking by me and returning to 'Chambers of Rock' day in, day out getting the site to pass the 100,000 mark already, on the sites two year anniversary month, thank you so much!

It means a lot to me, industry people may think I'm small fry and often some of them treat me as such. There's many of them out who simply won't even reply to requests for information, review copies of material, interview requests - Probably can't blame 'em on that one! - and more, because 'Chambers of Rock' is so relatively small.

100,000 views in a two year period means a drop in the ocean to them, to me it reflects that there are certain fans as passionate about this music and scene, as I am myself and I for one, really appreciate your support. Thanks again, it's because of you guys, that I conti nue to do this.

I will say this though, it takes a hell of a lot of personal time to do this site each day and I know there's a lot I wish I could've got done by now - i.e. More reviews for starters ... - but it is tough with the day job and two young kids. If the daily views do drop below 100 on a regular basis, then seriously it probably means it's time to wrap this up.

I'd love it if you told more friends about the site, I really would, I get nothing for doing this site, except the knowledge from the numbers, that it excites you enough to return as it does for me to hear all this great news and new music from so many great acts.

If you think I'm getting paid by someone for doing this or that record labels or PR people pay me, give me bribes or whatever, that's so far from the truth. I've never even receive as much as a single Christmas card in the mail from any of my many contacts - There's around 150 of them by the way!

Yes, I do receive albums and DVD's to review and on occasion, get the opportunity to review shows, by being on a list, I assure though ... It doesn't mean front rows seats for shows, not even first ten rows ..., but I do appreciate the tickets either way, which are few and far between.

Phew, went on a bit there didn't I? LOL!

Seriously, it's you great people that support the site by coming here, that make it worth my doing, if you didn't come, I'd most likely stop doing it, but that said .... Exciting news folks ....

Yes, someone out there does kind of like me!

Over the Christmas period, I have been invited to do a radio interview with 'Big JD,' on a weekly show called 'U Talkin' 2 Me' on 99.1FM covering Windsor, ON and Detroit, MI

http://www.utalkin2me.ca/

The show is being pre-recorded and will air in the New Year.

Cool huh?

I will keep you updated on when it is due to air, OK?

Well, that's about it - That's enough right?! - I will continue to try and post the odd review if possible AND at least one of those outstanding interviews!

One last thing, since it is Christmas and this is a rock site, check these two great videos out from the Northern Light Orchestra:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPyxWE76R1Y&feature=related
and
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tBhacK7dq4&feature=related

Official weblink:
http://www.myspace.com/northernlightorchestra

And this from TSO:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45wmyMgyZuY&feature=related

Once again, thank you so much for the support, can't say that enough.

Merry Christmas to all!

Alun Williams - Chambers of Rock

News Update for Thursday 22nd November, 2011

2011-12-22T14:16:00.000-05:00

JOE LYNN TURNER’s NEW SUNSTORM album pays tribute to his 80’s vocal sessions
“Emotional Fire” out on Frontiers on February 24th in Europe and February 28th in North America

Joe Lynn Turner’s popular AOR side project with German/American producer Dennis Ward, SUNSTORM, will release the third album entitled “Emotional Fire” on February 24th 2012 in Europe (February 28th in North America) on Frontiers Records.

Born after Joe Lynn Turner met with Frontiers Records’ President Serafino Perugino, the SUNSTORM project was a way to dig up some old gems, written by the former Rainbow, Deep Purple and Yngwie Malmsteen singer during the mid 80’s. The task was to create an ultimate Joe Lynn Turner Melodic Rock “dream collection.” This brought on the release of the first SUNSTORM album in 2006 –which met with much critic and fan approval - and the follow up “House of Dreams” three years later.

While the first two albums’ basic inspiration came from the Melodic Rock catalogue of songs that Turner penned for himself or other artists of the genre, for this third album, Frontiers and JLT decided to look at Turner’s numerous vocal sessions he did in the 80’s as a background vocalist for other artists. This brought on a resurrection of some of Michael Bolton’s Melodic Rock gems such as “Gina,” (originally included on “The Hunger” album, where Turner contributed with background vocals), “You Wouldn’t Know Love” and “Emotional Fire,” which Bolton penned for the “Heart of Stone” album by Cher (in which Turner also appeared as background vocalist). “I sang background on the original ‘Gina,’” says Joe, “Michael and I did all of the parts but I tried to rock it up a bit more than the original... not so pop! Good song though! It's funny...I heard ‘Emotional Fire’ from Desmond Child during a writing session and then he asked me to sing background vocals on it! Crazy! It's like one big circle!”

With production and mixing once again under the expert hands of Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69, Place Vendome, Angra etc.) and a tracklisting rounded out by some amazing songs written by the likes of Soren Kronkvist (Crash the System, Issa), Tom and James Martin (Vega, Sunstorm, Khymera) and Daniel Palmqvist (Xorigin, The Murder of My Sweet), the third Sunstorm album, “Emotional Fire,” is destined to reignite the Melodic Rock passion in every fan. “I think this record has a good mix of songs,” concludes Joe, “Just what ‘Sunstorm’ is supposed to be! Dennis Ward is a great producer and the players are amazing. I have to say I am pleased with the work we did and hope that everyone else will be pleased as well...enjoy!”

SUNSTORM’s “Emotional Fire” will include the following songs: Never Give Up, Emotional Fire

, Lay Down Your Arms, You Wouldn’t Know Love, Wish You Were Here, Torn In Half, Gina, The Higher You Rise, Emily, Follow Your Heart, All I Am.

The first single, “Never Give Up” can be exclusively streamed on the Frontiers Records webradio www.frontiers.it/webradio

Joe Lynn Turner’s career spans over 60 album credits has had a number of highlights. From his early days with Fandango to the success he later enjoyed with (Ritchie Blackmore’s) RAINBOW, DEEP PURPLE, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN and an 11-album solo career, the New Jersey-born singer has covered a wide number of musical styles with his inimitable vocals.
He also appeared as lead singer in several projects since 1992 including BRAZEN ABBOT, THE HUGHES – TURNER PROJECT (with ex-Deep Purple’s Glenn Hughes), MOTHER’S ARMY, the “all star” group BIG NOIZE and many others.

Weblinks:

www.joelynnturner.com

www.frontiers.it

Frontiers Records update for the end of the year!
If this doesn't please you, what will?! LOL!

Jeff Scott Soto maintains 'Damage Control!'

"Damage Control", the new album by Jeff Scott Soto, is near completion and promises to deliver a one-two punch in the standard that is expected from the artist who has mastered the world of Melodic and Hard Rock music through the ages!

The album is completed with appearances and co-writing by his current and former live line ups as well as guests such as Dave Meniketti (Y&T), Jamie Borger (Talisman/Treat), Casey Grillo (Kamelot) and Joel Hoekstra (Night Ranger). There will be an 11 song single CD release of the album, as well as a 14 song Digipak version along with a bonus DVD which includes videos and EPK.
Get ready for 'Damage Control,' it will rock your World!

Also ..., from J.S.S.

J.S.S. will be performing at the annual Stars To The Rescue XXI show which benefits the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) founded by retired St Louis Cardinals manager Tony La Russa and his wife Elaine, along with Wynonna Judd, and comedian George Lopez on Sat Jan 7, 2012.
Guitarist Howie Simon and other select musicians will accompany him through a fun, electrifying set.

Jeff (and Howie) are massive dog and animal activists so it is an honor to lend their talents for this gala.
Click the link for more info as well as any donations or help is greatly appreciated to this cause.

http://www.arf.net/about/events/stars-to-the-rescue-wc.php

Official Jeff Scott Soto site:
http://jeffscottsoto.com

CRAZY LIXX

Crazy Lixx are busy in the studio recording their third album that will be entitled "Riot Avenue".

According to singer Danny Rexon: "This time the music is a little more riff-based and straight-forward. We wanted to make real a hard rock album, so we decided to have a little more raw feeling in the production, sound and songwriting compared to our previous albums and there's a lot more up-tempo songs than we had on New Religion. Also, the addition of a second guitarist, Edd Liam, has made it possible to add some twin guitar playing and other interesting musical stuff that we've used on the album".

Some of the song titles are "Whiskey Tango Foxtrot", "Young Blood", "Riot Avenue", "Church of Rock", "Fire it Up", "Only the Dead Know" and more.
The album is planned for a worldwide release in April 2012 and will be followed by the usual string of live dates around the World.

Official website:
http://www.crazylixx.com/

PRIDE OF LIONS

Pride of Lions is carrying on their proud heritage working hard on their as yet untitled fourth studio album. Jim Peterik says: "Our self titled debut released in 2002 is still many of our fans favorite albums. So this album is a bit of a return to form. Of course there will be a few surprises and Toby Hitchcock is singing stronger than ever. I've hit a stride on the songwriting with songs such as "Tie Down The Wind" and "Coin of the Realm".
I needed the time since The Roaring of Dreams to regroup and get reinspired. If you can't make a great record that will last the test of time - why even bother. This time Toby and me wanna take Pride of Lions on the road to promote this new one and spread the word".

This new Pride of Lions from what we've heard so far promises to be both more melodic and harder edged.
Release is planned for early summer 2012.
Weblink:
http://www.aprideoflions.com

HARDLINE

Hardline will be back in 2012 with a brand new album and a new lineup which will mark the beginning of a new cooperation between singer Johnny Gioeli and the italian producer/keyboardist Alessandro Delvecchio (EDGE OF FOREVER, EDEN'S CURSE).

The US singer says: "I'm really excited to be working with Frontiers on a new Hardline record! We have slated the release for mid 2012...This CD is filled with melody and class...I'm digging it. I hope the Hardline fans enjoy this CD as much as I have enjoyed creating it... Happy Holidays All!"

Official weblink:
http://www.myspace.com/hardlinerocks

ECLIPSE

ECLIPSE are putting their finishing touches to their anticipated fourth studio album that will be entitled "Bleed And Scream".

Musically the band is taking off the new release where the last album finished, yet with more refined and progressed songwriting. It will be a 100% Eclipse-sounding album with big hooks, melodies and powerful riffs but it leans towards a more darker, moody and epic side of the band. Songs like the title-track, "Battlegrounds", "A Bitter Taste" and "After the End of the World" will show an exciting new side of the songwriting of the band.
There will also be the first ballad in the history of the band entitled "About to Break".

Singer Erik Martensson tells: "This album was the hardest to write for us so far. On the other hand the most rewarding. We don´t know at this point how we are going to top this one. We have tweaked everything from quality of the songs, melodies, hooks, arrangements, guitar-riffs, vocal performances, guitar solos, drumming and the variety in the songwriting in general. No stone is left unturned this time."
Frontiers plans to release the album in the first half of 2012.

Official website:
http://www.eclipsemania.com/

FIND ME
Singer Robbie LaBlanc of BLANC FACES and Swedish producer/songwriter Daniel Flores (MIND'S EYE; THE MURDER OF MY SWEET) have started working together on an exciting new project entitled FIND ME.

Musically it will have an heavier edge compared to BLANC FACES and Robbie sings louder and stronger than ever!
Daniel Flores says "This CD is some of the best AOR songs I've ever worked on, there are songs for everybody here, it is going to be a monster. Robbie has one of the best voices in the business and I'm proud to be working with him, he reminds me of the soulfulness of Martin Page and Lou Gramm's singing. I have given every song on FIND ME its own identity for Robbie to showcase his great vocal diversity, all arrangements are carefully produced to fit his voice. The sonic impact will knock the socks out of you for sure!
There are some great musicians involved on this CD, starting with the amazing solos from guitar wizard David Sivelind, the rhythm guitars of Daniel Palmqvist and the very tight and inventive bass playing from Jonny Trobro.
The amount of time put into keyboards was really a lot and will instantly remind the listener of the greats like Boston and Foreigner. All done with real vintage keyboards to give the album the organic feel, that unfortunately so many albums lack of these days. I have never been this satisfied with the keyboards and synthesizer arrangements like on this album!"
Release is planned for the summer 2012.

PRIMAL FEAR

METAL NATION 2012 Tour including PRIMAL FEAR + Brainstorm + Special Guests!

March 2012
30. März 2012 CZ – Zlin – Masters of Rock Cafe

April 2012
01. April 2012 CZ – Prag – Metrix
03. April 2012 AUT – Wien – Szene
04. April 2012 HU – Budapest – Club 202
07. April 2012 BUL – Sofia – tba
08. April 2012 ROM – Bukarest – tba
10. April 2012 D – Berlin – C-Club
11. April 2012 D-Ludwigsburg – Rockfabrik
12. April 2012 NED – Kerkrade – Rock Temple
13. April 2012 D – Burglengenfeld – VA Zentrum
14. April 2012 D – Bochum – Matrix
15. April 2012 BEL – Genk – Rondpunt 26
17. April 2012 CH – Pratteln – Z7
19. April 2012 ES-Gijon – Sala Albeniz
20. April 2012 ES-Pamplona – Sala Totem
21. April 2012 ES-Huesca – Sala Jai Alai
22. April 2012 ES-Madrid – Sala Ritmo y Compas

NEW SIGNINGS AT FRONTIERS!

Two very exciting new bands have joined or are about to join the Frontiers Records roster.
One is a new Metal band from the UK which has already gathered a vast critical acclaim with their independently released debut album and that will finally have a worldwide release on Frontiers and another is a new Melodic Rock band from Sweden sounding like an exciting mix of Work of Art and H.E.A.T!
Stay tuned for more news in early 2012 - more and more surprises are in the works!!
Merry Christmas and Happy Rocking New Year!!

For all and more information on Frontiers records, go to:
www.Frontiers.it

Is Vince Neil about to quit Mötley Crüe?

Unbelievably, it seems Mötley Crüe frontman Vince Neil is considering 'other options,' although he's not saying quite what?
It's common knowledge amongst fans of the band that he's already done some TV and even in a movie once before too, so what is his plan, who knows?

He was recently speaking to the Las Vegas Sun's, Robin Leach.

Having just returned from a fishing trip where he hauled in a 350-pound bull shark off Bimini and then let it go back into the Atlantic waters, Vince Neil told Robin, “I’m having a great time here -- I could stay a year! I’m sitting on my yacht, contemplating my future, and I'm not sure it will be with Motley Crue after Las Vegas. Great things are coming up and pushing me in another direction.
“This is all about me thinking about the second half of my life, thinking about my future, and that future might not include Motley Crue after Vegas. There are so many opportunities that are in front of me that I’m really excited about. I just don’t want to look back later in life and regret that I didn’t pursue them.
“I’m just not sure I can give these opportunities the time and effort I’ll need to and continue with the band. It’s been a great ride, and I've enjoyed every second of it, but being out here relaxing in this beautiful place has given me the chance to reflect on what direction I want the rest of my life to take. I'm really giving it a lot of thought.”

Interesting huh?

Read the whole story here:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2011/dec/20/vince-neil-ponders-exit-motley-crue-after-las-vega/

Rock News Update for Wednesday 21st December, 2011

2011-12-21T12:06:00.005-05:00

The McAuley / Schenker Group is back!!!

Robin McAuley (Left) and Michael Schenker (Right)

(Robin McAuley Photo by Alun Williams)

It's something that really should've happened a long time ago, but yes, the great news is that the legendary Michael Schenker has reunited with vocalist Robin McAuley, after the latters parting of the ways with Survivor - Good call Robin! - to reunite the McAuley Schenker Group partnership again!

Back in the late 80's and early 90's, these guys put out some great work in 'Perfect Timing,' 'Save Yourself' and 'M.S.G.' and they also had a tasty acoustic album too, called 'Nightmare.'

For many rock fans, this is something that has been wished for, for so long after Gary Barden's return to M.S.G. had it's moments, but to be honest I think his performance on the 30th Anniversary double CD set and live DVD, were quite disappointing.

Michael Voss stepped in to record the bulk of the vocals on 'Temple of Rock' and Michael also had two other guest vocalist's on there, Doogie White (Rainbow, Yngwie Malmsteen, Praying Mantis) and a certain Robin McAuley, whose background includes Grand Prix, Far Corporation and most recently Survivor.

No word on if there's an album they'll do or not, let's hope so but for now, I'm excited to see a massive US tour announced for February and March of next year!
No clue on that touring band either at this time, for the US dates in support of 'Temple of Rock,' although at his site for the Japanese dates that will follow the US tour, he has named the band as:

Michael Schenker - Guitars
Michael Voss - Vocals
Herman Rarebell - Drums
Elliott 'Dean' Rubinson - Bass
Wayne Findlay - Keyboards / Guitars

Check out the single "Miss Claustrophobia" here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6YDXtAotNE

Item Info / Tracklist:

http://www.seeofsound.com/p.php?s=INAK9103CD

I have to say, this kind of surprises me that Michael Voss would do the Japanese dates, after being snubbed for the US tour, but who knows?
More information on all live dates:
http://www.michaelschenkerhimself.com/tour.php

I wonder if Michael would do a new interview with me, the last one he and I did was a few years back now, when I wrote for About.com, almost three years back:
http://classicrock.about.com/od/artistprofilesrz/a/schenker_intvw.htm

Meantime, here's those tour dates ...

February 2012

02/15/12 - San Francisco, CA - Mezzanine
02/16/12 - Santa Rosa, CA - The Last Saloon
02/17/12 - Portland, OR - Dantes – With Anvil
02/18/12 - Tacoma, WA - Backstage Bar & Grill
02/19/12 - Seattle, WA - Studio Seven
02/20/12 - Victoria, BC - 9 One 9 Nightclub
02/22/12 – Santa Clara, CA – The Avalon
02/23/12 - Orangevale, CA - The Boardwalk
02/24/12 - Corona, CA - Marquee 15
02/25/12 - West Hollywood, CA - House Of Blues
02/26/12 - San Diego, CA – 4th and B Concert Theatre

02/28/12 – T.B.A.

March 2012

03/01/12 - Libertyville, IL - Austins
03/03/12 - Detroit, MI - Harpos
03/04/12 - Etobicoke, ON - The Rockpile
03/05/12 - Cleveland, OH - Peabody's
03/07/12 - Springfield, VA - Jaxx
03/08/12 - Foxborough, MA - Showcase Live
03/09/12 - Asbury Park, NJ - The Stone Pony
03/10/12 - New York, NY - The Gramercy Theatre
03/11/12 - Allentown, PA - Crocodile Rock
03/15/12 – T.B.A.

03/16/12 - San Antonio, TX - Backstage Live
03/17/12 - Dallas, TX - Trees
03/18/12 – T.B.A.

03/20/12 – T.B.A.

03/21/12 - Tempe, AZ - Club Red
03/22/12 - Las Vegas, NV - Vamp'd
03/23/12 - Agoura Hills, CA - The Canyon Club
03/24/12 - San Juan Capistrano, CA - The Coach House

Official Michael Schenker site:
http://www.michaelschenkerhimself.com

Maybe this news piece explains more about about Michael Voss' situation ...

MAD MAX SIGN WITH SPV/STEAMHAMMER
- New studio album and tour 2012 -

25 years after the release of the legendary "Night Of Passion" album, german hard rock band MAD MAX return with the original line-up and will release their new studio album "Another Night Of Passion" by the end of March 2012.

Michael Voss (Lead Vocals, Lead Guitars), Jürgen Breforth (Rhythm Guitars), Roland Bergmann (Bass, Vocals) and Axel Kruse (Drums) captured the spirit of 1987 and deliver their masterpiece worldwide through SPV / Steamhammer.

The album was recorded at the Kidroom-Studios which are owned by Michael Voss and where also albums from Michael Schenker, Vengeance and Gary Barden were produced.
The cover artwork was designed by the belgian artist Eric Philippe (Rhapsody, TNT) and the photos were shot by the famous german based photographer Martin Huch (Duesenberg Guitars).

Olly Hahn (A&R Steamhammer): "I saw the band back in 1987 where they supported Stryper and they blew me away. "Night Of Passion" is a hard rock gem and I´m sure that also "Another Night Of Passion" will not disappoint any fan who likes classic melodic hard rock."

Jürgen Breforth (Guitarist Mad Max): "Exactly 27 years ago we were close to sign a deal with SPV/Steamhammer and I´m totally glad that we could fix this now in 2011.
With SPV on our side, the new studio album and the original line-up we are ready to burn the stage again!"

And the band will prove that in April/May 2012 because they are confirmed as the special guest on the

AXEL RUDI PELL-Tour:

"Circle Of The Oath"-Tour 2012 AXEL RUDI PELL special guest: MAD MAX
20.04. D-Hannover - Capitol
21.04. NL-Weert - De Bosuil
22.04. GB-London - Underworld
24.04. D-Langen - Neue Stadthalle Langen
25.04. D-Saarbrücken - Garage
27.04. D-Nürnberg - Hirsch
28.04. D-Kaufbeuren - All-Karthalle
29.04. CH-Pratteln - Z7
01.05. D-Erfurt - HsD
02.05. D-Berlin - Columbia Club
04.05. D-Bochum - Zeche
05.05. D-Bochum - Zeche

Ticket-Hotline Germany: METALTIX +49-(0)4627/183838, www.metaltix.de
Touragency: Continental Concerts

MAD MAX released 9 studio albums since 1982 and toured through whole Europe with bands like Uriah Heep, Stryper, Yngwie Malmsteen and Pretty Maids.
Highlight of their career was the special guest slot on the sold out Deep Purple/Alice Cooper tour in 2006.
They also played on many festivals for example two times at the prestigious "Rocklahoma Festival" in the USA as well as on the "Rock Of Ages Festival" and "Wacken Open Air" in Germany.
_____________________

Photo from left to right:
Roland Bergmann (Mad Max), Axel Kruse (Mad Max), Olly Hahn (A&R Steamhammer), Michael Voss (Mad Max), Jürgen Breforth (Mad Max)

_________________________
http://www.myspace.de/madmaxmusic
www.spv.de

CHICKENFOOT EARNS GRAMMY AND ULTIMATE CLASSIC ROCK NOMINATIONS

The holiday season is upon us, and so are year-end awards! We're excited to share the new that Chickenfoot has earned a GRAMMY nomination for the “Best Recording Package,” for the creative 3D design of the new album.

For those of you who downloaded the album digitally, you may not be aware of all of the cool aspects of the packaging. Here's a quick overview of what you may be missing out on!
Click on the album cover to learn more ...

Official band site:

http://www.chickenfoot.us/news

Yngwie Sharpies? Whatever next!!!

As I scour the various artists / musicians websites, looking for news update items to share with you, every now and then I get something like this ... Can you believe this, seriously?!
I've heard of endorsements, but this is ridiculous, I even did a double take on todays date ...!

Yngwie Malmsteen gets honored by Sharpie!

Sharpie president Ben J. Gadbois not only did the honors, he had this to say "I have followed Yngwie (Malmsteen) since high school and am a huge fan. It was fantastic to meet one of the greatest guitar players of all time and talk about music and several of our common interests. It was also an honor to present Yngwie with his own personalized Sharpies. It means a lot that he chooses our markers to sign autographs. He's definitely made an indelible mark on music, and in some small way, we hope Sharpie has helped him make a lasting impressions with his fans."

For more on this and other - no doubt - interesting stories from Yngwie, go to:
http://www.yngwiemalmsteen.com

Derek Sherinian – Oceana album review

2011-12-21T00:38:00.000-05:00

Derek Sherinian – Oceana album review

Released on: Mascot Records. Release date: Available now.

Former Dream Theater and current Black Country Communion keyboards wizard, Derek Sherinian has pulled together a host of great players to accompany him on his latest solo album adventure.

‘Oceana’ is the man’s seventh solo album, not bad eh?

This album features Derek on keyboards throughout and Simon Phillips (Everyone ... Seriously!) as the drummer on every track, not to mention co-writer on seven of the nine songs here on display.

Other tracks feature the bass work divided up between Tony Franklin (Blue Murder) and Jimmy Johnson (Rodger Hodgson, Allan Holdsworth, Planet X, James Taylor), and guitar guests of likewise the highest calibre!

None other than Tony MacAlpine, Steve Lukather, B.C.C. fellow player in Joe Bonamassa, Stevie Stevens and Doug Aldrich, providing all the great lead work.

From the get go I must tell you – That wouldn’t know … - that this as previous expeditions is a purely instrumental affair.

Opening track ‘Five Elements’ is a tasty piece of interesting edgy at times, jazz rock, with great licks throughout from each player and throughout the album Derek’s playing is simply fantastic, matching anything his guitar guests throw in there, by one means or another and dare I say eclipsing at times!

‘Five Elements’ features Tony MacAlpine and it’s great alongside Johnson on bass here.

Next track ‘Mercury 7’ certainly makes you think it could work great in any Sci-Fi movie, with the insane keyboard antics and this one features again the same line up as the previous track.

It’s funny as next track ‘Mulholland’ featuring Steve Lukather on guitar sounds just like it could fit on any Luke solo album. Awesome playing as ever, clever stuff, matched of course by Sherinian’s own magic.

‘Euphoria’ sounds atmospheric to the point of almost being (Pink) Floyd like to be honest and yes, Luke appears again here.

I really do enjoy, nay, love Luke’s guitar solo work and always have.

His sound / style as a player for me is only equaled by Michael Schenker as ultimate players in their own rights. Schenker was my favourite player for the longest time, but in recent years, Luke’s playing really gets to me and this beautiful track really opens up for me. Excellent guys!

‘Ghost Runner’

I have to say starts and leads with an almost Luke like style initially again, but it’s not! This time Stevie Stevens steps in and really rips it up here and there, it’s a real rockin’ number with Derek really shining too!

OK, I’ve not praised Simon Phillips really yet, but you know, he’s my favourite all time drummer to be honest, since Cozy Powell departed this planet and yes, they are two completely different styles, but there’s something I hear in Simon’s playing that ignites memories for me. Brilliant! Tony Franklin finally joins the party here.

Whitesnake and former Dio player Doug Aldrich takes the ‘lead’ role – cough! – next with some phenomenal playing from Derek again and Doug shine well too on ‘El Camino Diablo.’ Nice work guys, on a kind of funkier style number.

It’s funny, without looking at the player info on this I just knew it had to be Joe Bonamassa, with the overall bluesy style on ‘I Heard That.’ That said, you could almost hear Luke play something like this too to be honest.

Luke returns to play on ‘Seven Sins’ next, which leads off with some strong synth work at the offset and yes, once more, faultless playing throughout by Luke, Derek, Jimmy Johnson and Simon.

It’s a really enjoyable album and I say that as someone that prefers rock and AOR vocally driven releases!

Final track is the title tune, ‘Oceana’ starting in a Floyd like manner much like ‘Euphoria’ and nice work from Stevie Stevens, that kind of reminds me a little of Gary Moore(RIP).
To be honest, I hear that a lot in Tony MacAlpine’s style here and there too.

The track soon opens up to elaborate a little more as it goes on. Nice stuff!

I’m sure Derek is extremely proud of this album, I certainly would be!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Weblinks:

http://dereksherinian.com/

http://mascotlabelgroup.com

Brief News Update for Tuesday December 20th, 2011

2011-12-20T12:51:00.000-05:00

Hey folks,

Thanks again for your great support of Chambers of Rock, you folks are fantastic!

Last night I was working on the painstaking task of the transfer of audio files to text and since the Windows built in voice recognition option is next to useless with doing this to my recorded telephone interviews with various artists, I have little choice but to play it all back, stop / start all through and type it up. Last night after an hour and a half of doing just this, something went badly wrong and the file I was working on, did not save .... I'm so mad about that right now ..., yeah, still, especially when my time to do this is already so limited, even more so at Christmas with so much family stuff going on.

Anyway, enough of my moans and groans.

Here's a little of what news updates I was made aware of ... Cheers, Al

Hoax Jon Bon Jovi dead rumours resounding across the internet

As I was about to leave work last night, when a guy there was saying ... 'Jon Bon Jovi found dead, at 49.' He went on to say, 'You've got to be kidding right? Did you hear this?'

My obvious answer was no.

Immediately I jumped onto CNN.com, MSN, BBC, Classic Rock magazine, Billboard and a few other's and nothing came up.

Then a Google search on the subject matter, revealed a bunch of 'news' sites and blog sites - I guess like this one. - were posting that he had been found dead in a New Jersey hotel and could not be

resuscitated.

Unreal what people will do for kicks, huh? Posting stuff like that ...

Here's one of those sites that had posted it:

http://dailynewbloginternational.wordpress.com/2011/12/19/international-rockstar-legend-jon-bon-jovi-dead-at-49/

You can search more and you'll find more that are still up and active ...

When I got in my car to drive home, I tuned into Sirius XM radio and Eddie Trunk's weekly radio show on 'The Boneyard' and he pointed out from the offset that this story was a complete hoax!
No truth in it whatsoever ...
He had just heard from Dave 'Snake' Sabo of Skid Row, who grow up with Jon and he'd just got off the phone with him and he was just doing fine! Not sick, nothing to raise even the slightest concern.

So ..., the man is alive and this was posted last night through Jon Bon Jovi's Facebook page.

So there you have it, Jon Bon Jovi is doing just fine and he will soon be promoting a new Bon Jovi live album, as far as I understand. It is initially being released through the bands fan club, through their website, so if you are interested in checking that out, go to:
www.bonjovi.com

MR BIG’s 'Live from the Living Room' finally made available worldwide on Frontiers Records !

Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of MR BIG’s new acoustic Live Album "Live from the Living Room" on February 24th 2012 in Europe and February 28th in North America.

At the end of January 2011, during a week long promotion trip to promote for their latest reunion album “What If” and tour, MR BIG were invited to the WOWOW TV Studios in Tokyo to perform a special show in an intimate setting.

When the talk of a broadcast first came up, the band wanted to present something different than they’ve ever done before. Thus the idea of an acoustic show came about and a string quintet was brought in to enhance the project even more, with arrangements provided by Takashi Miyazaki. Although Paul Gilbert and Billy Sheehan hooked up electric on a few songs, the show was still very much acoustic in nature throughout. Pat Torpey played various acoustic percussion instruments during the gig.

In Eric Martin’s words:

“The idea for the show came out of a quick conversation the 4 of us had after a day of interviews promoting the new “What if” CD. We did an acoustic show at the Hard Rock café in Singapore in 1996 that (till this day) is one of my favorite live recordings. It had a stripped down, up close and personal feel to it. If we were going to do something like that again it would have to be extra special. We were talking about the old days when musicians used to live together in a band house and practice day and night. Our favorite rock band posters and tapestry’s adorning the walls, family hand me down furniture, amps that doubled as lamp stands, friends hanging out and the usual cluttered mess on the floor, lyric sheets, guitar cases and chords, music stands, beer cans, Pizza boxes, wine bottles etc. “Live from the living room” was born out of that. We wanted to recreate a harmonious atmosphere and treat our fans to an informal jam session of songs from the past and present while throwing in a few surprises from our wish lists (Strings, Japanese taiko drums).

Mr. Big Fun fact - it was recorded live in front of a small but intimate audience at Tokyo studios where great movies like Seven Samurai, Godzilla and hundreds of other legendary Japanese films were made.”

The result from that magic night in Tokyo is now here: 10 Mr Big classics in a completely new and fresh dress and a portrait from the very first ever acoustic show from the band.

MR BIG’s latest album “What If” saw the band come back in the original line-up featuring singer Eric Martin, guitarist Paul Gilbert, Billy Sheehan on bass and Pat Torpey on drums.

The album charted in several European countries in the week of release and went gold in Japan.

"Live from the Living Room" will be exclusively released in a glossy digipak and will include the following songs: Undertow; Still Ain't Enough For Me; As Far As I Can See; Voodoo Kiss; Take Cover; Around The World; Stranger In My Life; All The Way Up; To Be With You; Nobody Left To Blame.

It is now possible to listen the first single “Undertow” on the Frontiers Records Webradio.

Tune in at www.frontiers.it/webradio

Weblinks:

www.mrbigsite.com

www.frontiers.it

An Update from Escape Music

Just visiting the Escape Music website, there's some interesting stuff on the way in the New Year, suffice to say, Escape Music have avoided my requests for review materials, so all I can do is share the news of their releases, if nothing else!

This from their website:

Coming to you folks in 2012 on Escape Music

1- Lee Small January

2- Human Temple February

3- Phenomena: March Featuring (Terry Brock, James Christian, Rob Moratti, Ralf Scheepers, Mat Sinner, Chris Antblad, Magnus Karlsson, Lee Small, Tommy Denander and Mike Slamer)

Produced by Tom Galley and Martin Kronlund.

4- Departure: “Hitch A Ride” April

5- Overland: in productions with (Christian Wolff, John Payne of ASIA on Bass, Jay Schellen Of Hurricane and Unruly Child on Drums, and Mike Slamer on Guitars and production.

6- Final Frontiers: in productions with Rob Moratti on lead vocals, and MLADEN

7- OZONE: in productions (Steve Overland and Chris Ousey) with Mike Slamer in production duties

8- Gypsy Rose: on Lead Vocals Lee Small

Last but not least Alliance featuring Robert Berry (Solo, Hush, GTR, Ambrosia),

Gary Pihl (Boston, Sammy Hagar), David Lauser (Sammy Hagar), Alan 'Fitz' Fitzgerald (Nightranger)

Plus others to come...stay tuned

Official Website:

http://www.escape-music.com

And that's really all I have right now folks ...

Sorry, really not too much else to share with you that I've been made aware of at this time.

Late Brief Update for Monday December 19th, 2012

2011-12-19T21:51:00.000-05:00

Hi folks,

Well, a couple of things, first of all I'm sending out an appeal to to Bill Zwirz in Hoboken, N.J.

Bill, you won the Judas Priest competition back in late November and I mailed out your CD, Judas Priest's, Chosen Few album.

In cross checking with the Post Office, they show that they 'tried' to deliver the CD to you on December 7th, but couldn't and left you a message to pick it up at the post office or request re-delivery.

They will hold it for 15 days, before returning it to sender ... Yes, me!

I sent it with 'Delivery Confirmation' because people in the past have told me they didn't get their prize, when I sent things simply first class mail.

Bill, they HAVE the CD, waiting for you. Please go claim it. I have emailed you a copy of my P.O. receipt and Delivery Confirmation receipt too. Thanks Bill, enjoy the disc!

OK, now here's the big one for me ...

Well for all of us, that is you my readers and myself.

THANK YOU ALL!!!

WE DID IT!!!

With your support, constant visits, sharing information about 'Chambers of Rock,' with your friends, you have taken this site, in the two years that it has run since I started it in late December 2009, just past the 100,000 page view mark!!!

I could never have thought, that this little old side project of mine, would have done this, thanks to you all!

Not too bad for a blog site with no one else helping me to promote it, no other sites helping to plug it, thanks to my regular visitors, you are fantastic!
Cheers, Alun Williams - Owner / Editor @ Chambers of Rock!

News Update for Monday December 19th, 2011

2011-12-19T01:14:00.001-05:00

Hi folks, hope you all had a great weekend and those still Christmas shopping are done now or very nearly done, it's manic out there!

Yes there's been a lack of updates of late still, sorry, it is that time of year of course, which just adds to the lack ot news and new material or info thereof and then the lack of time to get the site up to date with anything ...

Anyway, enough of my groans .... Have a great week folks!

Cheers, Al

UFO's 'Seven Deadly' artwork revealed

One of the UK's most underrated rock bands UFO, are about to unleash on the world their latest album and it's their 21st studio release and the fourth to feature Vinnie Moore on lead guitar.

Yes, 'Seven Deadly' is due to be released in February 2012 through SPV / Steamhammer.

The band continues to tour, year in year out and as far as I can make out, Phil Mogg is sounding as good as ever!

Sadly, there's no invovement for Pete Way here, where his future path lies with UFO or otherwise, is really anyone's guess. Sadly, Pete is still haunted by his health issues and quite where they stand right now, is anyone's guess?

Phil is joined in the band though, by once again, classic UFO members Andy Parker (Drums) and Paul Raymond (Keyboards / Guitars / vocals).

'The Visitor' was the bands last release in 2009, the other two Vinnie Moore releases were 'You Are Here' (2004) and 'Monkey Puzzle' in 2006.

Here's just a reminder of those release dates for the latest UFO album coming in February 2012:

24th February, 2012 - Germany

27th February, 2012 - Rest of Europe

28th February, 2012 - USA and Canada

For more information on the band and future live dates:

http://www.ufo-music.info/

The Scorpions 'Comeblack' album video available

In support of The Scorpions latest release 'Comeblack' which includes re-recordings by the band, of seven of their own classic's and six cover songs, the band had made an interesting new video with some ..., well, scantily clad young ladies dancing to 'the band's' own 'Comeblack' jukebox.

You can check out the video here, which includes snippets of the band covering 'Tainted Love,' 'Children of the Revolution,' 'Across The Universe,' 'All of the Day and All of the Night' and 'Ruby Tuesday.'

Check it out here:

http://www.myspace.com/video/vid/108352134

Keep up with the Scorpions as their 'Final Sting' tour rolls into 2012, at their official site:

http://www.the-scorpions.com/english/

Heaven and Earth recordings roll on

The third Heaven and Earth project album, is well on it's way as Stuart Smith recently informed me, 'Five tracks are recorded and now the next lot of music has been passed on to Joe Retta to provide some lyrics for.

It's going realy well Alun and seriously, I know everyone says this about their forthcoming albums, but I mean it, this already sounds like the best Heaven and Earth album EVER!'

Great news Stuart, looking forward to it next year.

The lineup making the album, in case you were wondering folks is:

Joe Retta : Vocals
Stuart Smith: Guitar
Chuck Wright : Bass
Richie Onori : Drums
Arlan Schierbaum : Hammond

Keep up with the recording progress through the bands Facebook page here:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heaven-and-Earth-Band/235455286519064

Girlschool announce new dates for 2012

British hard rocking metal band, Girlschool, featuring three original members in Kim McAuliffe (Rhythm guitar, Lead and B/Vocals), Enid Williams (Bass, Lead and B/Vocals) and Denise Dufort (Drums), along with Jackie Chambers on lead guitar who replaced original guitarist Kelly Johnson (RIP), who sadly passed away in 2007, are set to play live dates in 2012.

2nd March - Leamington, Assembly (UK)

3rd March - York, Fibbers (UK)

9th March - Manchester, 03 Academy (UK)

10th March - London, Garage (UK)

23rd March - Crumlin, The Patriot, Wales (UK)

The band just released or should that be, re-released 'Hit and Run' on it's 30th Anniversary as 'Hit and Run Revisited,' earlier this year.

Official band website is:

http://www.girlschool.co.uk

News Update for Thursday 15th December, 2011

2011-12-15T01:44:00.001-05:00

Sad days in the Great White camp, with two conflicting announcements

There appears to be an element of chaos surrounding the 80's band, Great White right now.

Over the past almost two years now, the band has been moving along without original vocalist, Jack Russell, following Russell's ongoing battles with health issues of one sort or another.

Russell is an incredible vocalist, which he has proven countless times live for almost thirty years, but the man has had problems, as have so many characters in the game and specifically from the 80's era.

Russell saw fit to make an announcement, to the whole world this past weekend through Facebook on his pending return to Great White .., only it was with a completely new band.

Well, OK, not completely new as the line up included some former if short lived, members of the band from the various different line ups over the years, that for the most part, have more or less, featured just Russell as the constant original member.

This was the statement put out by Jack Russell:

To all my friends: Just wanted to announce that I will be coming back with my band Great White and a BRAND NEW line up.

My new band mates are some of the most incredible musicians I have ever had the privilege to play with, Matthew Johnson former guitarist for Great White, Derrick Pontier former drummer for Great White, Dario Seixas former Bassist for Firehouse and the Stephen Pearcy Band, and Robby Lochner former Guitarist for Rob Halford's Band and Cherie Currie.

I am very excited about this new beginning. I am feeling better than ever, despite any rumors you may hear to the contrary. Unfortunately, and as confusing as it will be, my former band mates and their manager have decided to continue to tour next year under the name I created, Great White.

I will be touring under the name Great White featuring Jack Russell, to try avoid any confusion. So now the true fans will know the difference. I will be announcing tour dates as soon as they become available. Our first performance will be at the Pre-NAMM Jam January 14 2012.

Only shows advertised as Great White featuring Jack Russell will include myself on vocals.

I have missed all of you terribly and look forward to seeing you all on the road. You have no idea how much your love and devotion has meant to me during what has been one of the hardest periods of my life.

Happy Holidays! Much peace and love to you and your families. Have a blessed New Year. Yours as always, Jack Russell, founder and lead vocalist, Great White PS. JACK IS BACK!!!!!!!!

Source:

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100001930365841

Suffice to say, the band that has been touring as Great White in Russell's absence, that at one point featured the now late Jani Lane RIP (Ex-Warrant), has decided to make a crystal clear statement on the situation of the 'official' current line up of Great White.

Read on:

Press Release:

Official Great White Statement Regarding Jack Russell Announcement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OFFICIAL STATEMENT REGARDING JACK RUSSELL ANNOUNCEMENT

First and foremost, our main concern is our fans. We have
spent 30 years trying to be the best we can be and bring our fans the top
quality of music they have become accustomed to and deserve. It
saddens us today to have to respond to Jack Russell's announcement.

Jack Russell announced on Facebook on Saturday, December 10, 2011 that
he was returning to Great White with a new line-up.

This was a complete shock to the entire Great White Family.

This couldn’t be further from the truth.

As we all know Jack Russell has been fighting drug and
alcohol abuse for many years. He has had numerous stints in and out of
treatment facilities and hospitals.

In 2010 Jack’s physical condition deteriorated to the
point that he routinely fell on and off stage, forgot lyrics and we had to
cancel shows due to his inability to perform. In the past two years, Jack has
had five major surgeries and has almost died three times. His drug abuse was
so bad that his body began to shut down and ultimately resulted in colostomy
surgery from a perforated bowel (he nearly died during this procedure).

The colostomy surgery saved his life, but vanquished him with a colostomy bag
for a year.

We stood by Jack; we supported his sobriety and eagerly awaited
his return.

Jack was first slated to return to Great White this past
summer. Unfortunately his frail body and his drug abuse prohibited this event. In
the following months, Jack had three more surgeries that delayed his return.
Finally, he chose February 2012 as his target return date.

We had five clear conditions for Jack’s return:

1. Jack had to be drug free. Off all Opiates, Methadone, Valium or Xanax.
2. Jack had to be off Prednisone (a steroid that ate away at Jack’s internal organs that
caused the perforated bowel).
3. Jack had to be sober and off crack cocaine and all alcohol.
4. Jack had to agree to weekly drug tests.
5. Jack must attend weekly meetings for AA and NA.

Last week Jack notified management he would not make it
back by February 2012. Jack referred to his doctor’s opinion that he would not
be ready. He had just started physical rehabilitation again and his legs and
back needed more rehab to handle the rigors of touring. Jack thought he would
be ready by May to start the summer touring season. However, he wasn’t sure if
he could be off the Methadone by then or ever. Management reiterated that he
had to be completely drug free for his return. He owed it to the fans.

He owed it to us. He owed to himself.

Out of nowhere, we all received an email on Saturday,
December 10, 2011 stating that he was coming back now and that he was starting
his own (a different lineup) Great White. As you can imagine, this was shocking
to say the least. We were saddened and hurt from this shocking announcement ..

We only want to do right by our fans. We aim to give
the best possible show and have every fan leave the show feeling they
got their monies worth. This band is sober and music is our passion. With
Jack Russell, not being drug free and unable to physically perform on stage. It
will only let down our fans.

Time and again, Jack Russell has let down his band and fans.
His addictions have ruined his life the past eight years. We will not sit by
and enable our brother to abuse alcohol and drugs to kill himself. We have lost
too many loved ones to this madness. After the passing of our dear friend, the
talented Jani Lane, it has become more evident that this has to stop. It must
end.

Since Jack’s departure in August 2010, Great White has
performed almost 100 concerts. We’ve had no shortened sets, cancellations or
song choice limitations due to vocal issues. In this struggling economy, fans
need and deserve more—not less. We owe it to our fans and the promoters to not
to allow Jack Russell and some garage band to hurt Great White’s classic rock
legacy and bright future.

Jack Russell does not have the right to start his own
Great White or use the name without our names in the lineup.

We will litigate any promoter that books ‘Jack Russell's Great White’ or uses
any logo featuring the name Great White.

We give you our word, we will continue through 2012 and
beyond to provide you with the top quality musical performances you have been
accustomed and deserve. We hope and pray that Jack gets healthy, happy and
sober. His health and well-being is the only thing that matters.

Keep Rocking, God Bless and Happy Holidays!

Mark, Audie, Michael, Scott and Terry

GREAT WHITE

Official band website:

http://www.greatwhiterocks.com/

Give it to me good!

TRIXTER are firing up the engines for their comeback album!

Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of TRIXTER for the worldwide release of the band’s reunion album in the spring of 2012!

Formed in Paramus, New Jersey during 1983, TRIXTER would learn their chops playing live in the club circuit around their hometown with the likes of SKID ROW and KIX, before eventually getting signed by Mechanic/MCA for their self-titled debut album in 1990, which spawned the Billboard Hits and #1 MTV Videos "Give It To me Good," "One in a Million" and "Surrender" and went on to become gold.

The band toured nationally during 1990-91 sold out arena tours with POISON, SCORPIONS and WARRANT. TRIXTER's second album, "Hear!," was released in October 1992, touring in support of KISS. Unfortunately the change of musical climate made it impossible for the band to keep going so, after the release of an independent covers album, the band called it quits in 1995.

TRIXTER finally announced the reunion of the original lineup in 2007. Since then the band played several shows, including a successful appearance at the Rocklahoma festival in 2008. 'The band has been playing together for the last 4 years, so making a new record is the next logical step,' tells guitarist Steve Brown. 'We are all very excited: the new cd will be entitled "New Audio Machine" and is a classic style Melodic Hard Rock album. All the sounds people have loved about TRIXTER will be there ... Great songs, big guitar riffs, catchy vocals and a huge bottom end. A total big rock production!!!'
TRIXTER are now formed by Pete Loran on lead vocals and guitar, Steve Brown on lead guitar, P.J. Farley on bass and Gus Scott on drums. 'We take pride in the fact that we are one of the few bands of our genre that have all original members,' says Brown.

With an arsenal of great new songs and a catalogue of two successful releases TRIXTER are looking forward to bring their songs on stage 'We are hoping to land a support slot on one of the major summer tours,' concludes Brown. 'And we finally hope to play our first European tour as well.'

Get ready for the return of TRIXTER !

Weblinks:

www.frontiers.it

www.trixterrocks.com

The new AOR dream rising from Sweden!

SONIC STATION to debut in February 2012 on Frontiers

Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing to the label of a brand new Artist SONIC STATION for the release of their self titled debut album on February 24th 2012 in Europe and February 28th in North America.

SONIC STATION is a new Westcoast-AOR Project put together by Alexander Kronbrink (a Swedish guitarist, composer and producer). Alexander is a young musician who learned his skills playing with Smooth Jazz star Jonathan Fritzén. Later on – after being introduced to Lee Ritenour - Alexander started to see a clearer direction in his playing. Through Ritenour he discovered the music of such giants as Steely Dan, Kenny Loggins, composer and producer David Foster and guitarist Jay Graydon, among others. Alexander says: “I have always been interested in guitarists with the ability to play everything from Jazz, to Pop, to Country, to Hard Rock. I have listened a lot to American session guitarists such as Steve Lukather, Michael Landau and Dan Huff. I guess that type of guitar playing is what have influenced me the most.”

From the very beginning the SONIC STATION project has been based in the 80’s AOR music (influenced by Toto, Mr. Mister and Journey) and the West Coast-sound of Airplay and Chicago. The resulting album “SONIC STATION” is an expressive and warm record, where each song has an obvious and immediate hit feeling. “The focus is on melody and the SONIC STATION sound is a meticulous and exciting mixture of Pop, Rock and Jazz”, explains Kronbrink. To get the most quality out of each track Alexander, who composed ten of the songs and also produced and arranged the whole record, engaged four singers with different styles and voices: Marika Willstedt (from the Swedish TV show “Så ska det låta”), Magnus Bäcklund (member of the Swedish duo “Fame”), Kristoffer Fogelmark and Tove Lo.

There are many musicians working on the album but the three contributing the most are Alexander’s close friends Jonathan Fritzén (on keyboards – a smooth Jazz solo artist who reached #1 on the Billboard Indicator Smooth Jazz Chart), Henrik Linder (on bass – Dirty Loops, Work of Art) and Aron Mellergård (on drums – Dirty Loops). All of them are accomplished musicians and gave their contribution for the final result. “I definitely think SONIC STATION will have a life on stage and I expect that we will be able to do some shows in the coming months” concludes Alexander Kronbrink.

“Sonic Station” includes the following songs: Intro; Love's Gonna Show The Way

(Feat. Magnus Bäcklund); I Wish I Could Lie (Feat. Marika Willstedt); Hold On To Me (Feat. Kristoffer Fogelmark); You Have To Let Me Go (Feat. Tove Lo); The Most Beautiful Fear (Feat. Magnus Bäcklund); Running Through The Night (Feat. Marika Willstedt); Never Let The Sunshine Die (Feat. Kristoffer Fogelmark); My Last Refrain (Feat. Marika Willstedt); Love You More (Feat. Marika Willstedt and Kristoffer Fogelmark); Reasons (Feat. Marika Willstedt)

With SONIC STATION, Alexander Kronbrink has taken the 80’s into the future.

Weblinks:

www.sonic-station.com

www.frontiers.it

SEBASTIAN BACH'S NEW VIDEO "TUNNELVISION"

HAS EXCLUSIVE WORLDWIDE PREMIERE ON REVOLVERMAG.COM

2012 INTERNATIONAL TOUR DATES ANNOUNCED

(New York, NY) - Mothertruckers, it's time for another Baz fix!

Log on right now to Revolver Magazine's website, www.revolvermag.com, to witness the worldwide premiere of "TunnelVision," the next video from iconic rocker Sebastian Bach and his latest album KICKING & SCREAMING.

Bach fans can also look forward to catching their idol back on the road in 2012 as new international tour dates have just been announced.

Please see below for the itinerary, with more dates to be added.

Sebastian Bach's recently-released KICKING & SCREAMING debuted in the Top 75 of the Billboard Top 200 Album chart and has been receiving rave reviews from critics and fans alike. Outburn declared, "Sebastian Bach delivers a balls out gang of mountainous hooks, titanic grooves and straight down the middle hard rock", while Revolver avowed, "Bach's voice is in particularly fine form on KICKING & SCREAMING, boasting more color and range than most..."

Bach was also named one of the 100 greatest living rock stars by Revolver and is featured in that issue on stands now. KICKING & SCREAMING features young virtuosic guitarist Nick Sterling and drum pro Bobby Jarzombek (Halford, Riot, Iced Earth), as well a guest appearance by noted guitarist John 5 (Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie) on the track "TunnelVision".

Sebastian Bach has sold in excess of 20 million records worldwide as lead singer with his former band, Skid Row and as a solo artist. Far from just being a multi-platinum recording artist, the singer/songwriter/actor/entertainer has expanded his career over the past decade to include episodic television with a 5-season recurring role on the CW's hit series "Gilmore Girls", starring roles on Broadway ("Jekyll & Hyde", "The Rocky Horror Picture Show") and national touring companies ("Jesus Chris Superstar"), and has appeared regularly on MTV and VH1.

Sebastian Bach on tour:

FEBRUARY

1 Winston-Salem, NC Ziggy's

2 Baltimore, MD Rams Head

3 Toledo, OH The Omni

4 Mt. Clemens, MI The Hayloft

7 Cleveland, OH Peabody's

8 Lincolnshire, IL Cubby Bear

10 Fargo, ND The Venue At The Hub

11 Calgary, AB Chrome Showroom At Deerfoot

APRIL

12 Santiago, Chile Teatro Caupolican

13 Buenos Aires, Argentina Teatro Flores

14 Sao Paolo, Brazil Carioca Club

15 Porto Alegre, Brazil Opiniao

Bach on the web:

www.sebastianbach.com

www.facebook.com/sebastianbach

www.twitter.com/sebastianbach

www.reverbnation.com/sebastianbach

www.frontiers.it

The Acoustic Saints Live Update!

Stan Bush’s new band, The Acoustic Saints, have announced their first live gig for 2012!
Catch them at the Hard Rock Hollywood (right on Hollywood Blvd!) on January 14th, 2012!

The band also features Chuck Wright (bass) and Rick Sailon (guitar/violin/mandolin).

The Acoustic Saints reinterpret Classic Rock tunes with a moody atmospheric vibe – catch ‘em live! Faves from the 70′s and 80′s, plus a a few surprises along the way make up the set the Saints are rehearsing for this first live appearance of the New Year!

Official sites:
http://stanbush.com
http://www.chuckwright.com
http://www.myspace.com/ricksailon
http://www.wix.com/acousticsaints/as#!

Metallica Update after 30th Anniversary celebrations come to an end

This message just posted at the band's website, from Metallica to their fans:

Last week we celebrated our 30th anniversary together with Fan Club members from around the world by playing four nights at the historic Fillmore in San Francisco . . . it was quite the bash each and every night! If you were able to join us at any or all of the parties, thanks for coming out to hang with us. And whether or not you were there, you may have heard that we added some unreleased tracks from the Death Magnetic sessions to the set list – one “new” song each night as part of the shenanigans on stage.

This week, we’re releasing those four tracks through iTunes exclusively in North America and on iTunes and additional digital retailers in other parts of the world as the Beyond Magnetic EP.

All four studio versions of these songs were sent to Met Club members for free immediately following their live debut on stage at the Fillmore and tomorrow they will be available to everyone via the magic of digital downloading. They are the rough mixes, unfinished to their original degree of mixing from March of 2008, and those of you with very keen senses of sound might recognize bits and pieces from the ‘Mission Metallica’ videos posted in the summer of 2008.

Thanks again to everyone who visited us in San Francisco. As Lars (Ulrich) mentioned at the end of the last show, we’ll be back here in January with an announcement about a special interactive fan event in June of 2012 . . . we may ask you to do a little traveling again!

iTunes North America: http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=485472347

iTunes Mexico: http://itunes.apple.com/mx/album/beyond-magnetic-ep/id487495053

iTunes Worldwide: http://smarturl.it/beyondmagneticep

BEYOND MAGNETIC TRACKLISTING:

1. Hate Train

2. Just A Bullet Away

3. Hell And Back

4. Rebel Of Babylon

Official band website:

http://www.metallica.com/

Update for Wednesday December 14th, 2011

2011-12-14T12:20:00.001-05:00

Hi folks, sorry for no news updates today, there will be tomorrow I hope, but right now I’m trying to catch up with getting these interviews typed up for you.

Unfortunately, the guy that had said he should be able to help me with some ‘voice recognition’ stuff to get them addressed and up on the site quicker, has not had much luck …

I guess that’s the second time I’ve looked to get help with the site and it’s not worked out … I appreciate those two guys trying to help me out but ... I guess it wasn't meant to be ...
Looks like it's all just me then folks, but then that’s what you’re used to right?!

Ah well, time rolls on and there’s loads to try and get done and I’m working on those interviews during lunch at the day job so … Keep watching folks, hope to have something up for you tonight or tomorrow on the news updates. Maybe another CD review tomorrow or Friday, we’ll see …

By the way, serious I do appreciate you all coming back here and sharing with friends, the site has just passed 99,000 views and hopefully before the end of the year, it can reach the magic 100,000!

Cheers and thanks again for your continued support folks, keep on rockin', Al

News Update for Tuesday December 13th, 2011

2011-12-13T00:48:00.000-05:00

Presenting ...

Resurgence of Rock

the new album from

BlancaWhite

BlancaWhite’s debut album, Resurgence of Rock, is a rallying cry, a call to arms for a global resurgence of the sounds that made rock n’ roll great! Resurgence of Rock is original, in-your-face, party-hardy, 70’s and 80’s style hard rock at its finest, sung by legendary performers from that era.

Born out of the desert southwest, raised in Mexican bars, and nurtured by the icons of hard rock, Resurgence of Rock is original, classic style hard rock for the modern day. Following the models of the Alan Parsons Project and early Queens of the Stone Age, BlancaWhite invited renowned veteran rock vocalists Paul Shortino (QUIET RIOT, ROUGH CUTT and KING KOBRA), Lorraine Lewis (FEMME FATALE and L.A. NOOKIE), Terry Ilous (XYZ and GREAT WHITE), and Jeff Paris (CINDERELLA, VIXEN, SLASH, and KEB MO) to sing lead vocals for the album. And sing they did, recording stunning vocal performances with the skill, excitement and spirit of the rock anthems of hard rock’s greatest era!

“The album and the Resurgence are unique in two ways,” explains BlancaWhite co-founder and rock fan, Ken Savage. “First, we’re just ordinary rock fans who want the world to return to the glory days of hard rock. This album was a labor of love—made by fans for fans—and we invite everyone to join our grass roots revolution!”

The other unique feature of the album, explains Savage, is the way it mixes hard rock sounds of the 70’s and 80’s with a modern-day perspective. “The driving rock sounds on this album are straight out of the classic hard rock era. But the subject matter and lyrics fit with today. The songs either look back on the good old days, or they address issues that someone who grew up in that era faces today.”

BlancaWhite is named after the world-famous bar in Matamoros, Mexico, just across from the Texas border, where Savage and fellow BlancWhite co-founders, Austin Schell and Rick Schell, grew up. “I spent my formative years in that bar,” says Savage, “and it inspired much of the spirit for this album.” Anyone who’s ever raised a little hell “down south” will connect with “Livin It Up! (in a Mexican Bar),” one of the outstanding hard rockers on the album.

Little surprise that SAMMY HAGAR and VAN HALEN were major influences on this album, in addition to AC/DC. “We were most strongly influenced by Sammy, Eddie (Van Halen), Malcolm and Angus (Young), with some combination of DEF LEPPARD and JUDAS PRIEST as well,” says Savage. “There’s a strong partying theme to this album, and even a reference to Cabo Wabo in our title song. Sammy ought to be proud of what he’s inspired!”

At the same time, Resurgence of Rock contains unmistakable influences of AC/DC. According to Savage, AC/DC inspires much of the driving rock sounds on Resurgence of Rock, as well as the lyrics. “Everybody knows the AC/DC sound, and there is certainly a lot of that on this album. But AC/DC was the biggest inspiration to us in terms of witty, tongue-in-cheek lyrics. We’ve tried to emulate that in a number of our songs.”

BlancaWhite co-founder Austin Schell is the “musical genius” behind Resurgence of Rock. Schell is a consummate musician, composer and arranger and a veteran of the Austin, Texas music scene. On Resurgence of Rock, Schell took the basic building blocks of classic hard rock and put them together with Savage’s brilliantly witty lyrics to create fresh, hook laden songs. “That’s the magic of the songs,” said L.A. based singer, producer and instrumentalist Jeff Paris, one of BlancaWhite’s guest singers, “the language that Austin put to the messages that Ken wrote. They are serving their audience with the language they love the most.” The language of ROCK.

BlancaWhite is already working on its next album and intends to follow the same format. “Our model is to write the best rock music we can and find the best singers and players for each song,” says Savage. “We are going to keep making hard rock music with a modern twist for fans who grew up in the classic era—and hopefully some new fans as well!”

Watch the EPK right here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Wgux8pSOxQ&feature=player_detailpage

It’s high time for a Resurgence of Rock!

Join the Revolution now!

Official webpages:

http://www.resurgenceofrock.com/

http://www.facebook.com/#!/resurgenceofrock?sk=info

http://twitter.com/rockresurgence

EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT TO RELEASE STYX: THE GRAND ILLUSION/PIECES OF 8 LIVE

~SIMULTANEOUS DVD, BLU-RAY AND DVD/2CD OUT JANUARY 31~

New York, NY--Two of the most beloved albums in the Styx catalog are 1977's The Grand Illusion and 1978's Pieces Of Eight. Now, Eagle Rock Entertainment will release Styx: The Grand Illusion/Pieces Of Eight Live on DVD, Blu-Ray, and DVD/2CD on January 31.

This show was recorded November 9, 2010 at the historic Orpheum Theater in Memphis, Tennessee, on the tour that saw them perform both these albums in their entirety for the first time.

This 20-song two-hour and 11-minute presentation features stunning high-definition visuals accenting the complex musical arrangements recorded in DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Digital 5.1, and LPCM Stereo. The staging of these two multi-platinum albums and the fevered response makes this concert a must for all Styx fans. The Grand Illusion/Pieces of Eight Live also includes the bonus feature "Putting On The Show," an inside look at the people and equipment needed to stage such a massive spectacle.

Selling millions of records worldwide since their 1972 Chicago inception, Styx have branded themselves as one of the greatest American progressive rock bands. The current line-up consists of James "J.Y." Young (vocals, guitars, keyboards); Tommy Shaw (vocals, guitars); Todd Sucherman (drums); Lawrence Gowan (vocals, keyboards); Ricky Phillips (bass, backing vocals) and Chuck Panozzo (bass guitar).

Eagle Rock Entertainment has also released their Regeneration, Volume I and II 2CD set, a newly recorded retrospective (Release date October 4, 2011).

Track Listing:

1) Intro/1978

2) The Grand Illusion

3) Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)

4) Superstars

5) Come Sail Away

6) Miss America

7) Man In The Wilderness

8) Castle Walls

9) The Grand Finale

10) Great White Hope

11) I'm Okay

12) Sing For The Day

13) The Message

14) Lords Of The Ring

15) Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)

16) Queen Of Spades

17) Renegade

18) Keyboard Interlude

19) Pieces Of Eight

20) Aku-Aku

Official weblinks:

http://www.styxworld.com/

http://www.eagle-rock.com/

Michael Schenker working with Robin McAuley again ...? Maybe ...

OK, I didn't start this rumour although I do recall at one point during my listening to Temple of Rock, under review at the time, that I sent a message to Michael Schenker to get Robin McAuley back in M.S.G.!

Temple of Rock is generally a very good album, certainly not the best of Michael's releases, but good nonetheless. I don't really think that Michael Voss' voice works.

Doogie White on one track there sounds so like Dio and then there's the Robin McAuley track, which I think it sounds great!

They did record some great material in three studio albums, starting with Perfect Timing, Save Yourself and then, M.S.G., which was then followed by an Acoustic release and then and a live unplugged album too.

The thing is word is now, that since McAuley - Or before - left Survivor that he has been communicating with Michael Schenker again and that there will hopefully be some new dates announced ..., Soon!

Whatever the case, if I was you, I'be keeping tabs on things at the Schenker site:

http://www.michaelschenkerhimself.com/home.php

Issa – 'The Storm' album review

2011-12-12T22:25:00.000-05:00

Issa – The Storm album review

Released on: Frontiers Records. Release date: Available now

Norwegian songstress Issa, has an absolutely incredible voice which can come across as a brilliant pop rock vocalist and then in the next instance belt out a great rocker.

She has moments that often remind me vocally of Roxette, Heart and then Lee Aaron and I do like all of those artists and so when I received her last album ‘Sign of Angels’ last year for review, I was very impressed indeed.

Here we are a year on and ‘The Storm’ hits us all!

It’s different from ‘S.O.A.’ though and this time around she’s having a go at songwriting herself and she’s also got a bunch of names from the melodic rock genre helping out too.

There’s Daniel Flores (Mind’s Eye) helping out with drums, keyboards and even some bass work too.

Randy Goodrum (Steve Lukather, Steve Perry, Toto), Soren Kronqvist (Sunstorm), Magnus Karlsson and Chris Laney to name just a few.

Robert Sall (Work of Art) helps out on opening track ‘Looking For Love’ as well as providing the lead guitar work here and the song is an instant hook laden, rockin’ winner!

‘Please Hold On’ is next and it’s a bit of a chug along pop rocker, which at times reminds me of some of Heart’s more commercial period. At all times with Issa though, the backing guitar is nearly always distorted power chords, which is where I often feel the desire to compare Issa’s material with Lee Aaron. Where there’s so much melody in the vocal presentation and keyboards all over and yet there’s these dirty guitars pumping out riffs galore.

In ‘Take a Stand’ it’s a steady enough rocker, with some pop like overtones here and there, again though, she has such a great vocal delivery and a very tasty guitar solo from Mats Lindfors. Very good stuff indeed!

Next song ‘Invincible’ almost takes another direction initially, with a softly, softly intro, very poppy indeed as this power ballad grows. Kind of a little like Roxette territory but it’s got rock to it though, which takes it to the next level. Sweet!

After a flurry of guitar at the beginning, ‘Two Hearts,’ then gets into a steady mid paced chug along pop rocker.

‘Black Clouds’ is a track that plays a role as a mid to up tempo number and some of the keyboard touches bring Journey to mind, but the overall sound is pretty consistent with the rest of the album, heavily melodic, yet with those dirty backing guitar riffs, in the fashion I mentioned before, similar a lot of times to how Lee Aaron’s material often came across. It’s good stuff, no question, but often one track sounds very much like the next.

More so, there’s a number of these tracks on here that I swear I’ve heard before, perhaps though that stands testament to how strong they are with their hook lines.

Next up I have to say, ‘You’re Making Me’ again – at least in the chorus - sounds like something very familiar.

It’s another up tempo, hard edged pop rocker that really seems to be Issa’s niche for sure.

‘Going to Stand by You’ is a keyboard / synth driven number, a little in a similar fashion to say Foreigner’s ‘Urgent’ through the verses, but the chorus takes a slightly different direction. I like it and it fits well with everything else here and then just as the guitar solo kicks in ..., the song fades out …? What?! Crazy!

Another steady mid to up tempo is ‘We’re On Fire’ next, keeping the steady mid pace through the verses and then picking up a notch in the chorus. We do get the guitar solo in full here, even if it is brief!

There’s no questioning Issa’s vocal’s at all, I think she sounds great but I think she could benefit with recording with a completely fresh set of musicians and different writers, for a little more variety.

Just as I say this though, the next ballad comes along in ‘Too Late for Love,’ and sounds in a slightly little different style. You know she’s even reminding me a little of T’Pau’s Carol Decker meets Roxette on this one, no bad thing at all, just look at the success both acts have had! All she needs now is worldwide airplay!

‘What Does It Take’ is another one that has a familiar sounding style guitar riff about it and it’s another mid / up tempo number, that is indeed contagious.

Final track is title track, ‘The Storm’ that starts slow and then picks up to a steady mid paced edgy pop rocker once more.

Overall it’s a good album and it’s good to hear Issa’s voice again, but for me, while ‘The Storm’ is good, ‘Sign of Angels’ has the edge on this for me.

I gave 'Sign of Angels' a rating just under 4 / 5, this one is close but not quite there.

Rating: 3.5 / 5

Official weblinks:

http://www.myspace.com/isabelloversveen

http://www.facebook.com/people/Issa-Oversveen/100001356553822

http://www.frontiers.it/home/

Brief News Update for Sunday December 11th, 2011

2011-12-11T01:34:00.001-05:00

Tesla Receive Key to Sacramento

Tesla recently received the key to Sacramento from Mayor Kevin Johnson, at the Sacramento Rock and Roll Museum, which is very cool indeed.

You can check out a video of the event, right here:

http://vimeo.com/33327290

Good for you guys, there's no doubting Tesla is one hard working band.

Tesla have also had to reschedule a bunch of dates, due to vocalist Jeff Keith getting struck down with bronchitus.
Here's wishing Jeff a speedy recovery, take it easy buddy!

TESLA's Anaheim House of Blues Acoustic show for November 20 has been rescheduled for Thursday, January 5, 2012.

TESLA's Phoenix Celebrity Theatre Acoustic show for Friday, November 18 has been rescheduled for Friday, January 6th, 2012.

TESLA's Las Vegas House of Blues Acoustic show for Thursday, November 17 has been rescheduled for Saturday, January 7, 2012.

All tickets purchased will be valid for the new dates.

If you have not yet bought your tickets, now's the perfect time to stuff someone's stocking for the holidays!

Jeff Keith, Frank Hannon, Brian Wheat, Troy Luccketta and Dave Rude apologize for rescheduling and promise to bring a great acoustical evening.

See you on January 5^th, 6^th & 7^th!

Official band website:

http://teslatheband.com/teslatheband/

Stan Bush and Acoustic Saints, what's the story?

AOR / Melodic rock favourite Stan Bush, has of course recorded some really popular material as a solo artist as well as the album 'Stan Bush and Barrage.'

Love that one!

You know he's released thirteen studio albums - Not including the Christmas one! - and there's some really great material out there, there really is and one of the great things now, is that's many of them have been made available again through Stan's site and LA Records, including 'Every Beat of My Heart,' 'Heaven,' 'Capture the Dream,' 'Shine' and 'In This Life' to name a few and you can find them again, right here:

http://www.larecords.com/Store.html

Aside from just Stan Bush solo though, who's currently writing his new album, the follow up to last years excellent 'Dream The Dream' inbetween his side project, Acoustic Saints, Stan shared this with me:

'I'm mainly just working on writing for a new album. Got a killer new ballad in the works.

I'm hoping to have a new album finished in the coming year.'

Then when I asked what else ...

'I'm also doing the Acoustic Saints project with myself, Chuck Wright (bass) from
Quiet Riot, House of Lords and Rick Sailon (violin, mandolin, guitar).

We're performing some local gigs and also doing some recording together. It's an unplugged trio
that's turning out to a be very cool project.'

Sounds very cool indeed Stan and I do like what I hear over at the band's site and here's a link to the music they've been playing. I think you'll agree folks, sounds very good indeed!

http://www.wix.com/acousticsaints/as#!music

Official Stan Bush site:

http://stanbush.com/

Saxon's Biff Byford joins Metallica onstage for 30th Anniversary show

Metallica recently celebrated their 30th Anniversary with a handful of shows at the Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco and invited a bunch of special guests that they've always had respect for and have always plugged as influences.

One those special nights, they invited Biff Byford from Saxon - who've just finished their American 'Call To Arm's' tour. - to join them, but Biff didn't just happen to be in town, he flew in especially for the event ..., from Helinski!

Saxon like to keep their fans informed of activities through regular podcasts and they captured the event, from Biff's arrival at the airport, through the ride to the venue and then inside the venue and the tail end of the night at the Metallica show is captured too.

Biff went and joined the band as they ploughed through 'Motorcycle Man.'

Here's the link to the night:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRFMJBj1wKs&feature=player_detailpage

For photo's of the night and more, go to:

http://www.saxon747.com/en/

Saga drummer Jim Gilmour undergoes eye surgery

Canadian band Saga have recently put everything on hold currently due to the condition of drummer Jim Gilmour. This posted over at Saga's site:

Due to circumstances obviously completely out of his control, Jim Gilmour is to undergo emergency eye surgery in an attempt repair a detached retina in his right eye tomorrow, 21/11/11.

Without this very sudden unexpected surgery, “Daryl” was at risk of almost certain permanent loss of vision in that eye. We’re all praying that the procedure is a 100% success and that his recovery time is as short and painless as possible. I’m sure that Jim will offer a more in-depth explanation of the situation when he is able.

In the meantime, in order for the tour to continue without having to cancel any shows, we have managed to find someone to temporarily step into his shoes and handle the keyboard responsibilities, albeit in a different version of the existing set. (It’s a lot of information for one person to absorb on such short notice so some changes will have to be made to accommodate the “new guy”!) We offer our apologies to those of you who were looking forward to the set you may have seen posted on various forums. But this is the only way that we could avoid any cancellations.

Thank you for your understanding.

Update:

After speaking with Jim, he asked me to pass along this update regarding the status of his condition/eye surgery. It is now confirmed that on Tuesday, the 29th of November he will undergo the surgical procedure of the re-attachment of the retina in his right eye, and while we all agree that the operation will be a complete success, our thoughts and prayers will be with him nonetheless.

Jim also asked me to say “Thank you all so much!” to everyone for their extraordinary outpouring of support, well wishes and affection at this very difficult moment in his life. He is extremely touched by your concern and takes great comfort in knowing that he is not alone.

Further Update:

I have just received word that the doctor is well pleased with how the procedure to repair Jim's retina went today. While it's a little early to call it a resounding success, all signs so far point in that direction. So that's very good news! He will be resting for the next 48 hrs.

Hope it all falls into place guys, all my best to you all.

Official Saga website:

http://sagaontour.moonfruit.com

Steve Lukather has started his next solo album

I have to say, while Steve Lukather is an absolute master of music and yes, I'm pleased to hear he's writing again, but with all the activity in the Toto camp over this past year, I would've hoped that there might've been a new album from the band.

This posted at Lukather's site:

On December 6th 2011 Steve Lukather officially started working on a new solo record.

As always you can follow his and his friends steps at the special work in progress section. Right HERE!

Official website of Steve Lukather:

http://www.stevelukather.net/

God Bless Ozzy Osbourne DVD review

2011-12-08T23:37:00.000-05:00

God Bless Ozzy Osbourne DVD review

Released on: Eagle Vision / Rock. Release date: Available now

Ozzy Osbourne is one of those fortunate artists who amazingly, put bluntly, is still alive today!

He’s certainly made his name, even after going through some seriously rough patches, but even though his health isn’t what perhaps it could be, in how the drugs have taken their toll on him, he still keeps going.

This DVD is actually an incredible, behind the scenes look into the life of Ozzy in a much different way than that of ‘The Osbournes’ reality TV show, that to me, just made Ozzy look bloody all the more ridiculous.

The downside on this for me and call me a prude if you bloody like, BUT … Does Ozzy really have to say f***, every other word or certainly in every sentence he speaks. Seriously, that gets old, very quickly.

It’s a shame in that sense, as I really think that the fact that it’s been made by Ozzy’s son Jack Osbourne, has allowed Ozzy to really be himself and it really captures some incredible moments, that go back a long, LONG way, so Jack has clearly done a lot, a hell of a lot of research on ‘The Ozzman!’

There’s so much that's discussed throughout, covering so much of what Ozzy has done and of course, there’s a whole host of stars that speak up for the man, including his old Black Sabbath mates Tony Iommi, Bill Ward and Geezer Butler, then of course Sharon and all the Osbourne family are there and even Paul ‘Macca’ McCartney speaks up!

As you can imagine there are a whole host of other names too. A real who's who.

There’s his kids from his first marriage, Louis and Jessica who speak up to say how he wasn’t a good father at all, which even comes into play with his kids Aimee, Kelly and of course Jack, from his marriage to Sharon.

Sad moments indeed when the documentary touches on Randy Rhoads, especially with the then interviews with clearly a very, very young man indeed, which makes it all the more tragic and it gets to Ozzy and to be honest, it got to me too.

An incredibly sad moment in time, indeed … Absolutely tragic …

Astonishing moments too, as the viewer learns that Ozzy has only recently at 62 learned how to drive or should that be, got a driver’s licence! Now he’s been sober for some time of course speaks volumes, so good for him on that but seriously … It bloody took you long enough Oz! LOL!

It covers the times from being a very young lad, through the beginnings of being in a band, through the good and bad times of Black Sabbath, then how Blizzard of Oz stunned everyone, when perhaps most people had written the guy off.

Ever since Blizzard of Oz, even with his incidents of biting doves and bats heads off, to peeing on the Alamo, he has clearly got bigger and bigger and seriously, I mean he was the guy or should that be, the artist who was the FIRST to put together a real rock festival and tour with it. Cue Ozzfest!

Incredible!

To be honest folks that’s all I need say, as Ozzy fans will be buying this in their droves anyway, as will most Sabbath fans no doubt, then the occasional Sabs fan and the die hard rockers too.

It is good, it’s very well done and even if Ozzy is very much a shadow of his much younger former self, he’s quite the subject for such a video / DVD.

Again, if you don’t like a lot of swearing, don’t buy it, but if you are a rock fan, chances are, generally you’ll appreciate the whole thing.

Rating: 4 out of 5 … It is entertaining and does keep you watching.

Official weblinks:

http://www.ozzy.com/

http://www.eagle-rock.com/

Brief Rock News Update for Thursday December 8th, 2011

2011-12-08T12:59:00.000-05:00

Hey folks, sorry for updates being pretty few and far between lately, I still get formatting issues sometimes, when I try to share certain PR contacts Press Releases, for whatever reason it seems, Blogger.com is not helpful!
Not only that though I have as you may've noticed been starting to catch up on a few CD reviews and there's more where that came from folks!
I am hoping, someone is going to help me out with getting my interviews transferred to text for you guys to read here soon, although the voice recognition software 'thing' is not being that helpful at the moment and the people at Nuance who sell the 'Dragon' software, are not answering my questions on how best to be able to utilise the software, to do the transfer ... Ah well ...
Hope there's a little somthing in the three news pieces today that appeals, somehow!
Cheers folks, Al

Chickenfoot set to invade the UK in January 2012

Following the release of their acclaimed second album ‘Chickenfoot III’, the hottest rock’n’roll band in the world, Chickenfoot featuring Sammy Hagar (vocals), Joe Satriani (guitar) Michael Anthony (bass) and Kenny Aronoff (drums), will perform two rare concerts in the UK in January 2012 - Manchester Academy (Jan 12) and London o2 Brixton Academy (Jan 14).

The Manchester Academy concert on January 12th is now sold out. Tickets are still available for Chickenfoot’s London o2 Brixton Academy concert on Saturday January 14^th, and can be ordered from:

www.livenation.co.uk/artist/chickenfoot-tickets

Original Chickenfoot drummer Chad Smith has temporarily handed his sticks over to the legendary Kenny Aronoff, who will join the band for the upcoming UK and European concerts in January. Chickenfoot will perform songs from their gold-selling, eponymous debut album, alongside tracks from ‘III’, for the very first time in Europe.

The European tour also includes concerts at Paris Olympia (Jan 16), Tilburg O13 (Jan 17) and Dusseldorf Mitsubishi Electric Hall (Jan 19).

Read the official Chickenfoot UK and European tour press release:

www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/chickenfoot/tour.htm.

ROCK LEGEND ZAKK WYLDE TO BE HONORED AT

GUITAR WORLD'S FIRST EVER ROCK & ROLL ROAST;

EXCLUSIVE EVENT FEATURES SHARON OSBOURNE AS ROASTMASTER AND ALL-STAR PANEL OF METAL-LOVING LUMINARIES FOR THE BENEFIT OF MUSICARES.
PRESENTED BY EPIPHONE GUITARS.

(New York, NY) - Get ready for a raucous night of comedy, charity and chaos! Guitar World is proud to announce the magazine's first-ever Rock & Roll Roast with inaugural honoree Zakk Wylde. Presented by Epiphone Guitars and sponsored by Monster Energy Drink, EMG Pickups, Revolver Magazine, Marshall Amplification, Dunlop, Eagle Rock and Samson, the exclusive event will take place at The Grove in Anaheim, California on Thursday, January 19th, 2012; a portion of all proceeds will go to the MusiCares charity. Zakk Wylde was recently named one of the 100 greatest living rock stars by Revolver Magazine.

Roastmaster Sharon Osbourne and other metal-loving luminaries such as Ozzy Osbourne, Chris Jericho, Anthrax's Scott Ian, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Slipknot's Corey Taylor, as well as comedy and roast veterans Jim Norton, Brian Posehn, Jim Florentine and more will all take aim at the Black Label Society frontman and guitar icon, best known for his incredible axe chops, his golden locks and his signature Bullseye guitar line. Fresh from her recent stint on the Judas Priest tour, Lady Starlight (Lady Gaga's resident DJ) will also be on hand to serve as the evening's official DJ.

Roastee Wylde commented, "How can they roast me? I'm a good Catholic boy..." Roastmaster Sharon Osbourne explained, ""Zakk has always called me his Mom, but I think my boy needs a good kicking." Editorial Director of Guitar World, Brad Tolinski added, "We're excited to kick-off this new annual event, and who better than Zakk Wylde, to be our first... victim."
Click here to witness the Rock & Roll Roast's first viral video trailer, featuring both Zakk Wylde and Jim Norton:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOGUKUQvpw0.

This show will kick off on the opening night of the 2012 NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA. This live charity event is not open to the public, but, if you want to attend and learn more about being a sponsor for this once-in-a-lifetime event and be part of a great charity and cause, please visit www.rockandrollroast.com for more information and sponsorship opportunities.

About Guitar World

Since debuting in the summer of 1980, Guitar World has consistently reigned as the world's leading guitar magazine. Professionals and beginners alike turn to Guitar World for top coverage of their favorite artists, from rock titans like Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page and Metallica's Kirk Hammett to contemporary stars like the White Stripes' Jack White and Tool's Adam Jones. The magazine is also now available as complete digital issues on tablets like the iPad, Kindle Fire and Nook Color.
www.Guitarworld.com is the home of all the latest guitar news, lessons, tablature, behind the scenes photos and videos. Guitar World's "Lick of the Day" is one of the top downloaded apps on the iTunes store and has been voted 'App of the Week.'
Find out more at www.GuitarWorld.com
.

About Epiphone

Epiphone fretted instruments, amplifiers, strings and accessories are known worldwide for offering the best combination of quality, performance and value. One of Gibson's most formidable competitors through the first half of the 20th century, Epiphone was acquired by Gibson Guitar in 1957. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, Epiphone is part of the Gibson family of brands. For more information on Epiphone, go to www.epiphone.com
Follow Epiphone on Twitter at www.twitter.com/epiphone or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/officialepiphone

About MusiCares:

Established in 1989 by The Recording Academy, MusiCares provides a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need. MusiCares' services and resources cover a wide range of financial, medical and personal emergencies, and each case is treated with integrity and confidentiality. MusiCares also focuses the resources and attention of the music industry on human service issues that directly impact the health and welfare of the music community. For more information, please visit www.musicares.org

About Zakk Wylde/Black Label Society

In the two decades since Ozzy Osbourne hired him away from his job at a New Jersey gas station, Zakk Wylde has established himself as a guitar icon known and revered the world over. Wylde has won nearly every guitar award imaginable, graced countless magazine covers and is a major influence to a new battalion of rock guitarists. Writing and recording with Osbourne led to multi-platinum success, inspiring him to create the now iconic Black Label Society in 1998. In the decade plus since, BLS has turned the notion of what a rock band should be upside down by inspiring legions of fans (known as Berserkers) all over the world to follow the mantra: Strength, Determination, Merciless, Forever (SDMF for short). Wylde and his Berserkers have established a heavy metal institution true to the vision of uncompromising, unfiltered and unrestrained rock 'n' roll. To date, Black Label Society has sold millions of albums worldwide and continues to be a massive presence on the worldwide touring and merchandising circuits. Black Label Society's ORDER OF THE BLACK (eOne Music), was released in August, 2010 and debuted at #4 on the Billboard Top 200 Album chart.
For more information, please visit www.blacklabelsociety.com or www.zakkwylde.com

For more information please visit:
www.rockandrollroast.com

Michael Thompson Band - Future Past

Cult AOR luminaries MICHAEL THOMPSON BAND return with a brand new album "Future Past."

Frontiers Records is excited to announce the return of MICHAEL THOMPSON BAND with the release of the brand new album “Future Past” on February 24th in Europe and February 28th in North America.

In 1988, after working to try and get a deal with his band Slang, guitarist Michael Thompson finally got signed by Geffen Records to release one album entitled "How Long", under the Michael Thompson Band (MTB) monicker.

On "How Long" some great studio musicians appeared as guests, in particular drummer-maestro Terry Bozzio, singer Moon Calhoun (ex The Strand), Pat Torpey (later on drummer with Mr Big), bassist Jimmy Haslip, John Elefante (Kansas), Toto's Bobby Kimball and Great White associates Michael Lardie and Wyn Davis (who also produced the album).
Songwriters would include, among others, AOR stars such as: Jeff Paris, Mark Spiro, Billy Trudel and Brett Walker.

As of today “How Long” is still regarded as one of the highest examples of hi-tech AOR / West Coast, with a superb production and immaculate songwriting. “I think the album has stood the test of time with a great batch of songs and some really strong performances. It was heartfelt and I think people respond to music that comes from the heart. I'm glad that many fans of melodic rock still list this record amongst their favourites,” tells Michael Thompson.

“How Long” was reissued in 2007 with 3 bonus tracks and started a relationship between Michael Thompson and Frontiers Records, which finally brings the anticipated release of the new Michael Thompson Band album in early 2012. “I've tried to keep the new MTB album "Future Past" in the same spirit as "How Long". I'm hoping that people will hear the natural progression of my music and appreciate the new record as much as the first one,” continues Michael. “Although 22 years is quite a gap time-wise the music was recorded with the same feeling and spirit as I always had”.

For the new album Michael teamed up with the awesome singer Larry King from Soleil Moon. Larry brought a new and more rocking approach to the MTB sound, but certainly the trademark elements of songwriting and melodies are still to be found in the new album “Future Past”. In Michael Thompson words: “When I was considering singers for this new record I said to myself “Who is the best rock singer that I know?” and only one person came to mind - Larry King. The guy has such a phenomenal range and texture and it goes perfectly with my guitars. We started writing songs together a little over a year ago and from the first song, "Can't Be Right", I knew we had something special!”

MTB 2012 lineup is rounded up by Khari Parker on drums and Alan Berliant on bass. “Larry brought them into the picture and it was a pleasure for me to work with some knew guys that I wasn't familiar with. It brought a fresh approach to the music,” says Michael.

The production of “Future Past” is just flawless and the album is destined to become soon another AOR music classic. “I think that the title kind of says it all - "Future Past"” concludes Michael. “Larry and I are both big fans of Classic Rock and AOR Melodic Rock so we just naturally infuse that love into the music that we write. It's elements of the past with a modern approach”.

“Future Past” tracklisting includes: High Times; Can't Be Right; Future Past; When You Love Someone; Here I Am; Beautiful Mystery; Break Me Down; End Game; Gypsy Road; Can't Miss 2012; Fight For Your Life.

The first single “Can’t Be Right” can be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web Radio now!
Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio

Weblinks:
www.michaelthompson.cc
www.frontiers.it

-----ooooOooo-----

Michael Thompson is one of today’s leading guitar players of the world. He was awarded the "Distinguished Alumni" award from his Alma Mater Berklee College of Music to commemorate his contributions to the music industry. Berklee's program for the event noted that "he is widely regarded as being among the elite studio session players, and his amazing list of credits includes such prominent names as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, 'N Sync, Toni Braxton, Phil Collins, Rod Stewart, the Scorpions, Vince Neil, Christina Aguilera, Michael Bolton, Mariah Carey, Bette Midler, Madonna, Babyface, En Vogue, Gloria Estefan, Stanley Clarke and Ricky Martin."

Brief News Update for Wednesday 7th December, 2011

2011-12-07T01:21:00.001-05:00

Cozy Powell - New documentary on legendary drummer

Cozy Powell photo Lastfm.com

Yes, friends of mine out there who know me best, would know all too well that anything happening that relates to the legendary, late, great rock drummer, Cozy Powell RIP (Jeff Beck, Rainbow, M.S.G., Whitesnake, E.L.P., Black Sabbath and many more!), would clearly get my attention!

When I started drumming, around 15 years old, Cozy Powell was the guy that had already impressed me in my younger years, during the mid 70's, with his solo UK hits, 'Dance With The Devil' and 'The Man In Black.'

I could talk for hours on Cozy Powell, I really could as he did inspire me and I was fortunate enough to have seen him live with Rainbow, Michael Schenker Group and Whitesnake and he always impressed!

Sadly Cozy was killed in a tragic car accident in 1998, after leaving a recording session with the Peter Green's (Fleetwood Mac) Splinter Group.

Some wonderful news to me, that a friend mentioned to me on Tuesday, was that there was going to be a new documentary on Cozy Powell and that I should look into it.

Here are the details that I found at the official Cozy Powell website:

http://www.cozypowell.com

Cozy Powell Documentary Under Production

Apparently, there’s an all new Cozy Powell documentary under production. It’s just started, so it won’t be out for awhile yet, but, there is a teaser trailer available, follow the link below.
Once we get closer to release, there will be more to say here.

'A documentary feature uncovering and celebrating the life and work of one of Britain’s most acknowledged and respected hard rock drummers of all time, Cozy Powell.

Featuring exclusive and extensive interviews with family, friends, work associates and fans, inbetween various archival footage, “Dance with the Devil – The Cozy Powell Story” will be an essential, in-depth and personal account of the man who, from humble beginnings, would go on to play an essential part in British and American rock drumming by playing in and alongside multiple bands and solo artists including Jeff Beck, Rainbow, Whitesnake, Black Sabbath and Brian May, as well as his own solo recordings including his signature instrumental “Dance With The Devil”, up until his tragic death in 1998.'

The documentary is being made by independant film maker, Lee Hutchings and the trailer for the film, can be found by following this link right here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WogB0Pn0xLg&feature=player_embedded

http://www.leehutchingsfilms.com/

I for one, cannot wait to see this and ultimately, own a copy!

Beggars and Thieves

"We Come Undone"

Official video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIEnmIVDqno

Taken from the album, 'We are the Brokenhearted,' out now on Frontiers records.

Special Guests:
Ron Keel, Jake E. Lee, Blas Elias, Sunset Thomas and Paul Shortino.

For more on this and all Frontiers releases, go to:

www.Frontiers.it