XM Artist Confidential

February.27th.2008 - Wednesday

Faith Hill and Trisha Yearwood Back-to-back shows Mon, 3/3 | XMX - XM 2
Faith Hill performs and talks about her future in this remarkable career-spanning edition of "Artist Confidential." Then Trisha Yearwood and a small band of musicians rock Studio A at XM's Jazz at Lincoln Center studio. Trisha answers audience questions and weaves together with a beautiful mix of songs, old and new.

The Smashing Pumpkins and Perry Farrell Back-to-back shows Mon, 3/10 | XMX - XM 2
Billy Corgan and The Smashing Pumpkins perform for a full house of fans in the XM Performance Theater. Hear a workshop style of their songs and a powerful Q&A session. And Perry Farrell brings his band Satellite Party to XM's Jazz at Lincoln Center studio for an hour of intense discussion, fan questions and a powerhouse performance that spans his early work with Jane's Addiction to the present.

Ann Wilson & Heart and Duran Duran Back-to-back shows Mon, 3/17 | XMX - XM 2
Ann Wilson brings along Nancy and the members of Heart to play their take on rock 'n' roll classics. Ann and Nancy answer questions spanning their long careers and belt out songs ranging from "Immigrant Song" to "Dreamboat Annie." And Duran Duran roar through their career history in a powerful "Artist Confidential" that celebrates their past and focuses on their future.

You can preview Faith Hill's set by visiting: www.xmradio.com/faith/index.xmc
For More Artist Confidential Details: www.xmradio.com/onxm/series/artist-confidential.xmc
Reminder, You can sign up for a free trial to listen to these shows "No Credit Card Required". Click Here

Rocklahoma - Bret Michaels & Press Conference

Email

Poison front man Bret Michaels and his solo band will headline the opening night of Rocklahoma Thursday, July 10, 2008.

Michaels, whose music has sold more than 25 million records worldwide in his 22 year career with his band Poison, has also achieved success with his top rated show on VH1 "Rock of Love with Bret Michaels."

"There is no denying that Bret Michaels is one of Rock's top front men and who better than to help kick off Rocklahoma," proclaimed Mark Nuessle, General Manager of the Catch The Fever Music Festivals.

Rocklahoma 2007 was the largest Rock Festival of its type featuring bands from the eighties. Attendance for the upcoming Rocklahoma has already sold tickets from all fifty states and four out of seven continents.

Located four miles north of Pryor, OK, off Highway 69, the Catch the Fever facilities include over 6,200 assigned and numbered seats, as well as general admission on the lawn for over 50,000 people. The grounds also feature over 4,000 campsites, on-site parking, bathroom facilities, a convenience store, and overnight security provided by Mayes County Sheriff's Department. Rocklahoma also has a Picture Alley that allows anyone in attendance to approach the stage during any performance and take photographs of a favorite artist at close range.

There are a limited amount of V.I.P. tickets available to Rocklahoma, which includes free beer and food for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There is a special pre-party on Thursday July 10th for all three day and V.I.P. ticket holders at no extra cost. Through February 29th, prices for V.I.P. tickets are $325 and three day general admission tickets for just $110. They can be purchased by calling toll free 866-310-2288.

XM and Boneyard are the official satellite radio channel for Rocklahoma. XM and Boneyard radio will broadcast live coverage of the Rocklahoma lineup announcement March 4, 2008.

Wyldside Radio Show will doing a Live video press conference from the Whisky on March 4 so fans can watch the event. Tune in here: www.mogulus.com/wyldside_rocklahoma

www.rockfeverfest.com

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Asia - Phoenix

February.26th.2008 - Tuesday

Frontiers Records is honored to present the European release of ASIA come back studio album "Phoenix" on April 11th 2008!

Geoffrey Downes, Steve Howe, Carl Palmer and John Wetton, the four original members reunited in 2006, twenty-three years after all four had last played together. The much publicized reunion resulted in two highly successful world tours in 2006 and 2007; an acclaimed double live LP and DVD, (entitled "Fantasia: Live In Tokyo"); and an overwhelming response from fans and the media, which continues today.

Starting from the summer 2007, Geoff, Steve, Carl and John have been busy in the studio recording their brand new CD "Phoenix", the first studio album from the band's members since 1983. Eagerly anticipated by fans all over the world, "Phoenix" contains an eclectic selection of songs bound by the unique Asia trade mark.

"Decades later, as if by destiny, the four of us are still here doing the one thing we are most passionate about - making music. The result of our latest endeavors is our new album, "Phoenix", says Geoff Downes "Phoenix" has been influenced by the same fusion of talents and heritages which so excited the world in 1982 and has a very poignant underlying theme placed at the intersection of love, discovery and reflection, no doubt due, at least partly, to Wetton's unexpected triple by-pass heart surgery which forced the cancellation of ASIA's 2007 West Coast North American tour and an eagerly anticipated tour of the United Kingdom. Based on such personal events John was inspired to write "An Extraordinary Life", making the concept of Carpe Diem dramatically pertinent.

"The album is a very adult, deep album both lyrically and musically and shows the development the individuals have gone through during their time apart pursuing other ventures" says Carl Palmer. "With songs like An Extraordinary Life and Alibis one can see the very strong English rock/pop/progressive style the group still retains. Lyrically the album is deep, to the point and highly personal. Coupled with the expertise and musicianship you have the band Asia".

The new record include rockers such as "Never Again" (the first single) and "Nothing's Forever", power ballads such as "Heroine" and "I Will Remember You" and two mini-epics too, among a dozen new songs which presents all themes the band is very well known for.

Steve Howe says: "This has been no ordinary reunion, the dates went well, the audiences have been encouraging as we have gone peacefully about our work. This new CD was really an enormous test, a challenge worthy of our intent. All the distractions usually evident vaporized, as we focused on collaborating to select and arrange these new songs, all in the style of "Asia ". Just 3 months later, the recordings demonstrate that professionalism, pleasure and hard work can go hand in hand with musical adventures, long may we revel!".

"We are neither over-confident, nor unsure of our ground. Each one of us is comfortable as a human being, and the sound on the CD "Phoenix" finally reflects the collective maturity of these four people who are not only eager to explore, but also relaxed enough to luxuriate in the strength of the material", adds John Wetton, while Downes concludes "The 12 song collection seeks to transport the listener on a musical journey, sharing our own personal thoughts, emotions and experiences along the way. The CD sleeve is adorned with an exquisite Roger Dean painting depicting the Phoenix in ascendancy. Enjoy the ride!"

The cd will also include an EPK playable on all computers, featuring video footage with interviews and live recordings.

"Phoenix" final tracklisting will include:
 Never Again; Nothing's Forever, Heroine; Sleeping Giant / No Way Back / Reprise; Alibis; I Will Remember You; Shadow of a Doubt; Parallel Worlds / Vortex / Deya; Wish I'd Known All Along; Orchard of Mines; Over and Over; An Extraordinary Life.

- Includes: Electronic Press Kit playable on all computers

- An Extraordinary Life [acoustic]*

* Bonus track only available on a Limited edition in slipcase

"Phoenix" will be released by Frontiers Records on April 11th with King Records handling the release in Japan. More domestic releases (including USA, Brazil, Korea, Argentina, Russia and Taiwan) are planned at the moment with details to be released at a later stage.

Clay Aiken - New Album Just Around The Corner!

People Magazine

Get ready Claymates, a new Clay Aiken album is just around the corner. The former American Idol contestant is in New York City currently recording his fourth album, which he expects to be released in early May, he tells PEOPLE exclusively.

"We're hoping the next album will be out about May 6," Aiken, who is currently starring in the Broadway run of Monty Python's Spamalot as Sir Robin, tells PEOPLE.

Aiken's keeping a hectic schedule, recording tracks for the RCA Records album when he's not on stage. "We've picked most of the songs," Aiken, 29, says. "Sonically, I don't know that we're going down any path that's crazy. I'm not trying to be cool, I'm not trying to be hip. I'm not trying to do anything other than sing stuff that I'm good at."

So what's the inspiration behind Aiken's upcoming album? "In the past five years there's a lot I've learned about life, and I think people learn a lot in the twenties," says the singer. "So we found a lot of songs that speak to that. I would like to wrap a lot of the music around that theme. It's early to promise that, but it's a goal."

Aiken adds he has no plans to perform a duet with another singer, but he knows at least one star he'd love to sing with. "I've always wanted to do a duet with Martina McBride. I think she has one of the best voices," he says.

And is Aiken planning an image overhaul, tied to the album? He says, "Last time I came out with dark crazy hair. We did that intentionally. But I'm just going to do what I do this time. We don't have any plans this time. But I've got the red wig [from Spamalot] – maybe I'll do that!"

www.people.com

Faktion - Ignite What's Inside EP

Island Report

Faktion are happy to announce their 1st EP with the new lineup, "Ignite What's Inside," which is now available for purchase! Only available online through Snocap until further notice, each track is $1.39 or $4.99 for the full EP. For those of you who haven't yet, you can preview each song in its entirety on their myspace page.

"Ignite What's Inside" features 4 brand new tunes in "Burn", "Feel Your Fire", "Be Here Lately" and "Save The World."

www.myspace.com/faktiondallas

Island Cast - Season 2 Begins

February.25th.2008 - Monday

Our first episode of Season 2 has been broken into 2 sections, but this was the only editing done in the show this time around. This is the first fully uncut episode, after many of you wrote in asking for some uncut episodes we felt best to start season 2 this way.

02.25.07 - Monday - The Beginning, Again. Part 1, Episode 1a is Part 1 of our 2 part show, which opens Season 2 of the Island Cast Series. A look back at the 2007 Best Of, New Singles - 3 Doors Down, Alanis Morissette and Def Leppard. "Artist You May Not Know"  - King Zero. Our first fully uncut, episode! Episode Details: Total Size 40meg, Running Time Approx. 43min, Recorded In 128kbps.

- Download Episode 1a

02.25.07 - Monday - The Beginning, Again. Part 2, Episode 1b is Part 2 of our 2 part show, which opens Season 2 of the Island Cast Series. Topics: New Kids On The Block Coming Back?, Van Halen Reissues? Bryan Adams New Album, Whitesnake New Album, Journey shooting for a Grammy? Our first fully uncut, episode! Episode Details: Total Size 37meg, Running Time Approx. 38min, Recorded In 128kbps.

- Download Episode 1b

Regular news updates will be back tomorrow!

Guitar Center Displays Its Iconic 'Legends Guitar Collection'

February.21st.2008 - Thursday

Guitar Center is proud to display four iconic guitars from their "Guitar Center Legends Collection" at its Minneapolis Twin Cities store on Saturday and Sunday, March 1 and 2.

Clapton's legendary "Blackie" and Gibson "335," Stevie Ray Vaughan's "Lenny" and the Edge's (of U2) Gibson "Les Paul Custom" are the four electric guitars that comprise the "Guitar Center Legends Collection" and this is the first time all four will be displayed together. They will be traveling from Southern California where they are stored in a secret, climate controlled vault.

Guitar Center purchased Clapton's "Blackie," his vintage Gibson "335," and Stevie Ray Vaughan's "Lenny" for over $2.4 million from the Clapton Crossroads Centre charity auction at Christies New York in 2004. They added The Edge's Gibson Les Paul after purchasing it for $240,000 at the Music Rising Charity Auction last year. The guitars will be displayed in the Guitar Center Twin Cities store, which is located on 1641 W. County Rd. in Roseville, Minnesota. They will be exhibited in one-of-a-kind, newly created, "Legends' Collection" display cases that will provide high level protection and climate control as the instruments tour prestigious musical events and key Guitar Center locations in 2008.

"Guitar Center is proud to be the custodians of this legendary collection of priceless instruments," said Greg Trojan, President/COO, Guitar Center. "These iconic guitars created many major moments in rock n roll music history, raised substantial sums for Eric Clapton's and the Edge's related charities, and we are excited to share them with Minneapolis' music community."

Store hours will be extended for this display. On Saturday, March 1 the collection can be viewed from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday, March 2, the hours will be from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. There will also be an after hours Legends Collection Platinum Night from 9 - 11 p.m. on Friday, February 29th by invitation only.

Personally built by Clapton in 1973, he played "Blackie" almost exclusively on stage and in the studio from 1974-1985 recording hits such as "Cocaine," "I Shot The Sherrif," "Wonderful Tonight," "Further On Up The Road", "Lay Down Sally" and various live versions of "Layla" featured on several album covers and videos. "Blackie," was subsequently purchased by Guitar Center for $959,500."

Clapton's Cherry Red Gibson "335," purchased for $847,500, was used to record the Cream versions of "Badge" and "Crossroads" as well as many other historical performances during his 40 years of ownership. Steve Ray Vaughan's "Lenny," which was purchased for $623,500, was used to record his classic love songs including "Lenny" and "Riviera Paradise." All of the proceeds of these three guitars purchased by Guitar Center were for the benefit of Clapton's Crossroads Centre charity.

U2's the Edge purchased his cream colored 1975 Gibson Les Paul (faded from its original white) in 1982 in New York. It found fame as a go-to guitar most famously used to write and record the smash hit "New Year's Day," among many others. In 2005 the Edge partnered with producer Bob Ezrin, Gibson Guitar and the Guitar Center Music Foundation to establish Music Rising, a charity campaign founded to replace the lost or destroyed instruments of professional musicians of the Gulf Coast Region. In 2007, the Edge donated his prized guitar to be auctioned in the Icons of Music Sale. Guitar Center paid $240,000 ($288,000 including buyers premium) and added this significant instrument to their "Legends Collection."

Guitar Center commissioned Gibson Guitar and Fender Guitar to make replicas of Clapton's Gibson "335" and Fender "Blackie" as well as Stevie Ray Vaughan's "Lenny" guitars. These limited edition re-creations are among the most valuable guitars of their type ever offered. For more information about the Legends collection, please visit www.guitarcenter.com/legends.

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Blackhawk - Lineup Change

February.20th.2008 - Wednesday

Music fans around the world have been waiting for a new Blackhawk album for the past few years. With switching labels, producers and writing new material things just haven't gone as well as the band had originally planned. Recently longtime member Dave Robbins walked away from the band to pursue his songwriting career leaving the band in limbo. Lead singer and last remaining original member Henry Paul recently posted the following update via the bands official website:

The personnel in the group has undergone a few changes in the last few days and I wanted to share them with you. Back in the group is long time Blackhawk favorite Randy Threet. Playing bass and singing high harmony Randy is joined once again by our friend and yours Michael Randall. Michael will play acoustic guitar and sing high harmony along with Randy. Chris Anderson on lead guitar will be singing the low harmony along with our keyboard player Jon Coleman. This should give Blackhawk an exciting twist to the three part harmony concept and also turn up the heat on our live show. Playing drums in the group is still the responsibility of the legendary Monte Yoho.... The spirit lives on!!!!

Henry
www.blackhawkmusic.us

Tyketto To Play Brazil

Artist Release

As posted by Danny Vaughn:

After countless stops and starts over the years TYKETTO is finally going to play in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.
We have been told that the band was always very popular there but have never had the pleasure of visiting this beautiful country. So now it's going to happen!

On April the 26th, 2008, TYKETTO will take part in the HARD ROCK RIO 2 festival which will also feature Mike Tramp's White Lion and House Of Lords.

The event will be held at:

CIRCO VOADOR
RUA DOS ARCOS S/N

Tickets will cost 85 Real and information about the show can be found at www.hardinrio.com.br or you can call (21) 98581699 or (21) 81691881

For a long time now we have gotten so much fan mail and emails from our Brazilian fans asking us to come and play so now it's up to you. Let's get everybody down there, sell this thing out and make it a really fantastic event. And remember this show will be with all four original members: JIMI KENNEDY, MICHAEL CLAYTON ARBEENY, BROOKE ST. JAMES, and me. We'll be playing lots of songs from our classic albums DON'T COME EASY and STRENGTH IN NUMBERS and bringing copies of our new cd of "lost treasures" and demos called "THE LAST SUNSET: FAREWELL 2007" and some other goodies as well.

So, Brazil, we finally meet in April and nobody is more excited about it than we are.

To all of you that have waited so long and kept the faith we want to say, "Obrigado"!
Danny Vaughn

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Gin Blossoms to Headline Santa Clarita 'Rock The Bike' Cycling Expo & Music Festival

February.18th.2008 - Monday

When the racing stops, the party starts at the Rock the Bike expo and music festival on Saturday February 23. The City of Santa Clarita, along with Westfield Valencia Town Center and H3 Publications, producers of Road Magazine and decline Magazine, will present Rock the Bike, a Saturday night cycling industry expo and music festival featuring top performing artist the Gin Blossoms.

Rock the Bike will immediately follow the Stage 6 finish of the Amgen Tour of California and will be located outside on the north side of Westfield Valencia Town Center near finish line activities. Official hours for the Rock the Bike festival are 4p.m. to 10p.m. Rock the Bike is just one in a series of events surrounding the prestigious cycling race. All events are free and open to the public.

The Gin Blossoms will headline a full night of live music and entertainment. With smash hits "Hey Jealousy" and "Allison Road," the Gin Blossoms took the music world by storm in the 1990's and have since been a top drawing stage act.

Along with top musical entertainment, over 30 industry leading cycling manufacturers will be showcasing the latest innovations in road and mountain cycling for the public. Manufacturers including Specialized, Trek, Giant Bicycles, Shimano and Kenda will be exhibiting bicycles and merchandise throughout the evening.

Rock the Bike featuring the Gin Blossoms is part of a full weekend of events in Santa Clarita planned around the Amgen Tour of California professional bicycle race.

Santa Clarita is a host city for the Saturday, February 23 Stage 6 finish and the Sunday, February 24 Stage 7 start of the prestigious event. The 2008 Amgen Tour of California finishes at the Pasadena Rose Bowl after riders leave Santa Clarita.

Rock the Bike is free and open to the public and there will be an opportunity to buy Road to the Cure raffle tickets, which raises awareness and benefits cancer victims. Details on the full weekend of events, including the Road to the Cure raffle, can be found online at www.Santa-Clarita.com/TourofCA.

VH1 Classic Presents: AFTERMATH: The Station Fire Five Years Later

Press Release

VH1 Classic and VH1 will air "VH1 Classic Presents: AFTERMATH: The Station Fire Five Years Later" a one- hour special of concert highlights on Sunday, March 23, 2008 10:00 p.m.* from the upcoming Phoenix Rising! Musicians United to Benefit the Victims of the Station Nightclub Fire. John Rich (Big & Rich), Alabama's Randy Owen, Dierks Bentley, Kellie Pickler and Gretchen Wilson will be joining Aaron Lewis (Staind), Tesla, Twisted Sister, Kevin Max and Stryper featuring Tom Scholz and Gary Pihl of Boston and the just added, Winger among others.

All of the artists will be performing live on Monday, February 25, 2008 at the Dunkin' Donuts Center in Providence, Rhode Island. John Rich will host the country portion of the concert while Dee Snider will do the honors for the rock segments. Emmy-nominated composer and musician Marc Bonilla who will serve as music director for the benefit, Carmine Appice's SLAM!, Eric Martin (Mr. Big), Danny Seraphine with CTA, Gary Hoey and others still to be announced.

"What happened at the Station Nightclub could have happened at any rock venue across the country," said Tom Calderone, Executive Vice President and General Manager, VH1. "We want to help raise awareness of the survivors' challenges to a national level through both VH1 Classic and VH1. We're hoping to tap into that huge community of music lovers and remind everyone about the redemptive power that music, and the great people who make it, can provide."

Disney Releases Classic Soundtracks

Island Report

For years fans of classic Disney films have had to wait for DVD releases in order to fully hear the remastered scores from their favorite films. After much delay, Disney has finally allowed the release of a few amazing soundtracks in 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea and The Parent Trap!.

Finally the 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea score has come to life in the form of digital download via iTunes. For $11.99 you will receive 26 tracks, some of which are single cuts and reprises, along with a digital booklet (PDF File - Adobe Acrobat). This booklet contains 7 pages of original film concept art, photos and liner notes.

This fully remastered collection is 1 hour 18 minutes and 23 seconds in total length.

The Parent Trap! soundtrack is from the original motion picture, released in 1961. The collection features 12 tracks, while this doesn't contain the full score it does have a good variety. Hayley Mills can be found singing 2 of the tracks, one of which was a prominent fixture in the film. The Parent Trap! soundtrack will set you back $9.99.

To purchase these soundtracks, simply open iTunes and search "Walt Disney's The Parent Trap!" and or 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea.

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New Album Reviews

February.15th.2008 - Friday

       

Steve Lukather - Naked Beggars

The Police With Special Guest Elvis Costello and the Imposters

Press Release

In 2007, The Police thrilled millions of fans around the globe. Their much heralded tour, which has sold over 2.5 million tickets, garnered numerous accolades including: Major Tour of The Year (Pollstar), as well as "Tour of the Year" and "Top Selling Tour of 2007" (Billboard Magazine).

Announced today, The Police will return to North America this summer to play their final area appearances in a number of arenas and amphitheaters predominantly in markets where they did not perform in 2007. An additional 30 dates have been confirmed beginning May 1st in Ottawa and culminating August 4th at Wantagh, NY's Jones Beach. Along the way, the tour will also visit The Gorge in Seattle, Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver and the Los Angeles' Hollywood Bowl (complete itinerary attached).

In 2007, The Police concert schedule included sold out performances at many of the most historic and renowned stadiums around the world including: Fenway Park (Boston), Wrigley Field (Chicago) and Dodger Stadium (Los Angeles), along with Twickenham Stadium (London), Stade de France (Paris) and River Plate Stadium (Buenos Aires). As already confirmed, The Police will return to Europe this summer for a select number of prestigious festival events including such performances at the Isle of Wight and Hyde Park Festivals in the UK, the Rock In Rio Festival in Spain, and the TW Festival in Belgium. The Police will also return to Germany, France, Spain and Italy performing at various arenas and stadiums through June and July.

"We are proud to present one of the most anticipated tours of 2008," said Vik Atal, Chairman and CEO, Citi Cards. "The Police tour is a great example of the benefits of our alliance with Live Nation which enables us to offer our cardmembers exceptional experiences through our innovative Private Pass Program." Citi cardmembers will have access to pre-sale tickets beginning Monday February 18th at 10am ET through Citi's Private Pass Program(R). For complete pre-sale details visit: privatepass.citi.com.

Elvis Costello and The Imposters will join The Police for the North American portion of this year's tour. Also spanning a career of 30 years, Elvis Costello and The Attractions were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003. He has received a number of Grammy nominations for his recent albums When I Was Cruel, The Delivery Man and for his 2006 collaboration with Allen Toussaint, The River in Reverse. His songs have been recorded by a great number of artists with a list as diverse as his range of musical styles including: No Doubt, Solomon Burke, Dusty Springfield, Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash.

The Police tour is proud to support Unitus, a world-wide leader at scaling innovative solutions to global poverty. Unitus envisions a world where microfinance is available to every individual; a world where the poor are empowered to work their way out of poverty and build a brighter future. We work toward this vision by accelerating the growth of the world's highest-potential emerging microfinance institutions. Unitus provides capital investments and capacity-building consulting, thus empowering these organizations to scale and provide life-changing financial services to reach more of the world's working poor. For further information visit: www.unitus.com.

Tickets for the North American concert dates will again be scaled at $225.00, $90.00 and $50.00 in most markets (plus applicable service fees) and will go on sale next weekend (February 23-25). There will be a 4 ticket limit per person in the amphitheatre pavilions and for the top price tiered tickets in the arenas. Visit www.thepolice.com and/or www.livenation.com for complete on-sale information in your city.

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- More News Next Week!

Harem Scarem - Collectors Edition DVD - Raw & Rare

February.14th.2008 - Thursday

We are delighted to announce the official release of the first of the live DVDs shot at Firefest 4 last October. The first release will be Harem Scarem's "Raw and Rare".

This release will be available as a collectors edition set consisting of the final Harem Scarem live performance ever, which took place at Firefest 4 on October 27th 2007. The package also contains a full live show, recorded in Ajax, Canada in 1994 whilst the band were in the middle of the "Mood Swings" world tour. This is the first time that a show from the legendary "Mood Swings" tour has been officially released and is a MUST HAVE for every fan of the band. And as a bonus feature, Harry and Pete have rifled through the vaults and come up with some never before seen privately shot footage of the band throughout the years. As a further bonus the guys are making four live clips available that were recorded on the 1997 European Tour. To complete the edition, the CD disc in the package is the live audio of the final Firefest 4 performance. The collectors edition will be a limited edition of 1000 copies only, each one individually numbered.

The DVD portion of the collectors edition will be a super-extended dual layer disc. For those who may be unfamiliar with the terminology 'Dual Layer', what it basically means is the single DVD disc contained in this package is the equivalent of two standard DVDs. Dual layer discs are now industry standard and most shop bought DVDs featuring large amounts of extras now use this format.

As the band have many fans throughout the world, the release will be available in both PAL and NTSC format, and also region free, so when ordering please state your preference.

Now the tricky part; of the 1000 copies available, 700 are available in PAL format and 300 available in NTSC format, and when they are gone, that's it.

This collectors edition will not be reprinted by Harem Scarem or Firefest, so if you want to be sure to get your copy of this essential release we will be accepting pre-orders through www.thefirefest.com OR www.haremscarem.net. Please also note that this release can only be ordered from the above web sites and will not be available from any online retailers or mail order specialists. If you fancy a taste of what's to come, please drop by www.thefirefest.com where there is a short preview available.

Pre-Orders: we will be accepting pre-orders for this release from Wednesday Feb 13th.

Shipping: Should commence from Monday March 10th to all territories.

Cost: for UK and Europe the total price of the package is £23 including postage for USA, Canada and all other countries the total price including postage is £25

Payment method: Paypal, International Bank Draft. UK orders can also pay by Postal Orders or personal cheque for UK.

Paypal Payment address: fireworks.mag@ntlworld.com

Postal Address: FIREFEST, 10 Dunnock Close, Offerton, Stockport SK2 5XD, England

Please make all drafts, cheques and postal orders payable to 'Bruce Mee'.

Please also check www.thefirefest.com regularly for the latest on the forthcoming FIREFEST 5. We hope to make an official announcement regarding the full three day line up in the very,very near future.

PBS Offers New Music Specials

Press Release

Viewers looking for new music programming will find exciting performances included in the PBS March 2008 line-up. From a happy, noisy family reunion concert with the Osmonds to a moving performance documentary from the Clash to an Oscar-nominated version of Peter and the Wolf, March programming has something for every music lover.

New music specials from Andre Rieu, James Last, Sarah Brightman, Daniel O’Donnell, James Taylor, Martina McBride, and the High Kings are all on tap. Shangri-La, a remarkable special from China, explores new dance horizons. And new compilations of classics include a Hollywood treasure chest of singing and dancing and a trip through the 60s.

The March line-up of music specials features THE OSMONDS 50TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION. From pop to country, from Branson to Broadway and “Dancing With the Stars,” in 50 years of entertaining, the seven performing Osmond siblings have never lost their touch or their huge fan-base. “Osmand-mania” re-ignites in this concert special, recorded before a live audience in Las Vegas.

Filmed just before her high-vote-getting spin on “Dancing With the Stars,” Marie performs a medley of her hit records, including “Paper Roses” and “No Stopping Your Heart.” Donny performs his hit singles from “Go Away Little Girl” to “Puppy Love.” Together, Donny and Marie perform duets of a number of their hits from “I’m Leaving It All Up to You” to “Little Bit Country and Little Bit Rock & Roll.” Before Donny and Marie made names for themselves, the Osmond Brothers paved the way, and the reason is clear here, as they sing and dance their way through a number of their hits, including “Lazy River,” “We’re Having a Party” and “One Bad Apple.” Jimmy Osmond performs his hit record “Long Haired Lover From Liverpool” and the Osmond family performs a medley of “Love Me For a Reason,” “Let Me In,” “Crazy Horses,” “He Ain’t Heavy” and “Through the Years.” Cameo appearances by celebrity guests include the legendary Andy Williams whose television show in the 60s brought the Osmonds to the world. The still-rocking performances, bolstered with video clips and historical photos, are sure to have audiences tapping their feet.

THE CLASH LIVE: REVOLUTION ROCK could turn a whole new generation on to the band whose breakthrough music opened punk to the world. Drawing from never-before-seen live concerts and interview sessions, this performance documentary illuminates the short but highly influential and prolific reign of the band from the mid-70s through the early 80s.

Never-before-heard interviews conducted by Grammy-winning producer Don Letts (the Westway to the World Clash documentary and the film Punk Attitude) allow Mick Jones, Topper Headon, Paul Simonon and the late Joe Strummer to offer the band’s story in conversation, while their intelligence and idealism shine through in the live performances, from around the world, that compose the majority of the film. Incorporating footage from all phases of the Clash’s meteoric career, the story explodes in intense performances at London’s Music Machine and Lyceum Theater and in the band’s blow-out 1982 performance at Shea Stadium in New York. Songs featured include “London Calling,” “Should I Stay or Should I Go,” “I Fought the Law” and “This Is Radio Clash,” among others.

Stop-frame model animation, puppets and digital photography give new life to Sergei Prokofiev’s fanciful Peter and the Wolf. Originally composed in 1936, Prokofiev’s iconic score uses personified orchestral instruments to tell the story of young Peter and his animal friends the Duck, the Bird and a mischievous Cat (an oboe, a flute, and a clarinet, respectively). Peter, represented by the string section, becomes an unsuspecting hero and frees his small Russian village from the Wolf (French horns). Animator Suzie Templeton’s award-winning vision and Mark Stephenson and the Philharmonia Orchestra’s lively playing combine to create GREAT PERFORMANCES “Peter & the Wolf.” The London Observer has said this “darkly comic” film will delight new fans. It has been nominated for an Academy Award.

PBS March 2008 pledge music specials program highlights (check local listings)*:

THE OSMONDS 50TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION
March 2008 (check local listings)
CC Stereo — From pop to country, from Branson to Broadway and “Dancing With the Stars,” in 50 years of entertaining, the seven performing Osmond siblings have never lost their touch or their huge fan-base. “Osmand-mania” re-ignites in this concert special, recorded before a live audience in Las Vegas at the Orleans Hotel Showroom. HD where available.

THE CLASH LIVE: REVOLUTION ROCK
March 2008 (check local listings)
CC Stereo — THE CLASH LIVE: REVOLUTION ROCK could turn a whole new generation on to the band whose breakthrough music opened punk to the world. Never-before-heard interviews let the Clash band members share the band’s story in conversation, while their intelligence and idealism shine through in the live performances, from around the world, that compose the majority of the film.

ANDRE RIEU: IN WONDERLAND
March 2008 (check local listings)
CC Stereo — One of the world’s most beautiful fairytale theme parks, Efteling in Holland, is the magical setting for this special concert. Rieu is joined by many guests, including Suzan Erens, the Platinum Tenors and soloists from the Vienna State Opera ballet, in enchanting selections, including pieces from Swan Lake, Hansel and Gretel and The Magic Flute.

JAMES LAST AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL
March 2008 (check local listings)
CC Stereo — As the world’s most popular band leader offers his trademark party mix of classic standards, sing-along favorites and fast tempo foot-tappers, the band is soon on their feet dancing while they play, and it’s not long before the audience joins in!

SARAH BRIGHTMAN: SYMPHONY IN VIENNA
March 2008 (check local listings)
CC Stereo — This concert, taped January 16, 2008, in Vienna, Austria, features songs from Brightman’s new album, Symphony, including duets with Italian tenor Alessandro Safina and Spanish countertenor Fernando Lima, along with many of her best loved hits. HD where available.

SHANGRI-LA
March 2008 (check local listings)
CC Stereo — Taped in high definition in South Central China in May 2007, this surprising new dance special features the dynamic Hunan Dance Company and China’s foremost dancer and choreographer, Liping Yang. With music composed for the program by the country’s premier classical and pop composer, San Bao, SHANGRI-LA celebrates China’s diverse culture and history as it explores man’s struggle to survive and triumph over the elements; nature’s bounty; women’s multiple roles; love; and the search for spiritual meaning.

DANIEL O’DONNELL AT HOME IN IRELAND
March 2008 (check local listings)
CC Stereo —With a combination of Irish tunes and American favorites highlighted by filmed trips to much-loved Irish cities and towns, DANIEL O’DONNELL AT HOME IN IRELAND is a perfect blend of music and the places that are dear to Daniel and the millions of people who call Ireland home. Taped on July 14, 2007, at new concert hall in Letterkenny, the program is a heartfelt reminder that no matter how far you travel, there’s no place quite like home.

GREAT PERFORMANCES “James Taylor: One Man Band”
March 2008 (check local listings)
CC Stereo — In July 2007, James Taylor teamed up with veteran television producer Don Mischer and Oscar-winning director Sydney Pollack to produce ”James Taylor: One Man Band,” a concert performance of songs interspersed with personal anecdotes, touching and witty reflections and never-before-seen home movies and photographs. Viewers will experience new performances of classic favorites “Carolina in My Mind,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” “Shower the People” and “Fire and Rain,” among other hits. HD where available.

GREAT PERFORMANCES “Martina McBride in Concert”
March 2008 (check local listings)
CC Stereo — GREAT PERFORMANCES captures the small-town girl with the big voice in peak form in this Moline, Illinois, concert. “Martin McBride in Concert” features selections from her nine albums, including the crossover hit “This One’s for the Girls,” and songs from her newest album, Waking Up Laughing. HD where available.

THE HIGH KINGS
March 2008 (check local listings)
CC Stereo — Renowned vocalists and musicians Finbarr Clancy, Brian Dunphy, Martin Furey and Darren Holden have come together to create the most exciting Irish ballad group to emerge since the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem. Backed by a band of world-class musicians, the High Kings’ outstanding four-part vocal harmonies re-energize the great Irish ballads and make exciting new songs from Ireland shine.

HOLLYWOOD SINGING AND DANCING: A MUSICAL TREASURE
March 2008 (check local listings)
CC Stereo — Hosted by stage, screen and television icon Shirley Jones, this film celebrates song and dance on the big screen. With new commentary from more than 20 silver screen luminaries including Liza Minnelli and Debbie Reynolds, HOLLYWOOD SINGING AND DANCING: A MUSICAL TREASURE is a historical look at the magic of musical Hollywood. Clips from 26 special films including The Wizard of Oz, Meet Me in St. Louis and Oklahoma highlight the history.

MY MUSIC: MY GENERATION – THE 60S
March 2008 (check local listings)
CC Stereo — The MY MUSIC series magic continues with this essential 60s folk rock, R&B and pop music compilation focusing on the years 1965 to 1969. From the soft harmony of to the psychedelic sound of Iron Butterfly, MY MUSIC: MY GENERATION – THE 60s has something for every viewer.

Highlights by date include:

GREAT PERFORMANCES “Eric Clapton Crossroads Guitar Festival Chicago” (R)
Wednesday, March 19, 2008, 9:00-11:00 p.m. ET
CC Stereo — Eric Clapton leads an all-star line-up of B.B. King, Willie Nelson, Sheryl Crow, John Mayer, Jeff Beck and Buddy Guy in a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration from America’s blues capital, Chicago. Bill Murray hosts.

LIVE FROM LINCOLN CENTER “New York City Opera: Madama Butterfly”
Thursday, March 20, 2008, 8:00-11:00 p.m. ET
CC Stereo — New York City Opera presents Giacomo Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, which tells the story of a marriage between an American Navy officer and his geisha bride. The poignant story of a disastrous clash of cultures stars James Valenti and Shu-Ying Li.

GREAT PERFORMANCES “Peter & the Wolf”
Wednesday, March 26, 2008, 8:00-9:00 p.m. ET
CC Stereo — Stop-frame model animation, puppets and digital photography give new life to Sergei Prokofiev’s fanciful Peter and the Wolf. Animator Suzie Templeton’s award-winning vision and Mark Stephenson and the Philharmonia Orchestra’s lively playing are a delightful combination in this Academy-Award-nominated film. In HD where available.

GREAT PERFORMANCES AT THE MET “Hansel and Gretel”
Wednesday, March 26, 2008, 9:00-11:00 p.m. ET
CC Stereo — Alice Coote and Christine Schäfer play siblings Hansel and Gretel and tenor Philip Langridge the Witch in this English-language production of Engelbert Humperdinck’s masterful treatment of the beloved story by the Brothers Grimm. In HD where available.

GREAT PERFORMANCES AT THE MET “Romeo et Juliette”
April 2008 (check local listings); Sunday, April 6, 2008, 1:00-4:00 p.m. ET on PBS-HD
CC Stereo — Anna Netrebko as Juliette and Roberto Alagna as Roméo ignite this Gounod opera. Plácido Domingo leads the orchestra and chorus. In HD where available.

GREAT PERFORMANCES AT THE MET “Macbeth”
April 2008 (check local listings); Sunday, April 20, 2008, 1:00-4:00 p.m. ET on PBS-HD
CC Stereo — Maria Guleghina, Željko Lucic, Dimitri Pittas and John Relyea star in this new production of Verdi’s Macbeth. In HD where available.

GREAT PERFORMANCES “Dance in America: Wolf Traps Face of America”
Monday, April 21, 2008, 10:00-11:30 p.m. ET
CC Stereo — This “Dance in America” special features highlights from Wolf Trap’s “Face of America” initiative, which commissions new works by the country’s top choreographers and musicians, with the ultimate goal of fostering a commitment to preserve national parks. In HD where available.

GREAT PERFORMANCES “Primo”
Thursday, April 24, 2008, 10:00-11:30 p.m. ET
CC Stereo — This one-man play recounts the Holocaust experiences of Primo Levi, an Italian chemist interned at Auschwitz in the final year of World War II. Written by and starring Sir Antony Sher.

And continuing new music programs are coming in March and April from signature PBS music series:

AUSTIN CITY LIMITS continues its longstanding tradition of showcasing the best of original American music and beyond. Musical styles range from contemporary and traditional pop to rock, country, blues, bluegrass, Latin, folk, roots, and more.

GREAT PERFORMANCES, television’s longest-running performing arts anthology, continues to broadcast the best in music, dance, and theater.

GREAT PERFORMANCES AT THE MET’s second season of opera telecasts from the Metropolitan Opera features Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel, Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette, Verdi’s Macbeth, Puccini’s Manon Lescaut, Britten’s Peter Grimes, Wagner’s Tristan und Isolde, Puccini’s La Bohème and Donizetti’s La Fille du Régiment.

LIVE FROM LINCOLN CENTER makes the world’s greatest artists accessible to home viewers in virtually every corner of the United States. It remains the only series of regularly scheduled live broadcast performances on American television today.

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◊ Bon Jovi Snags Kopple For Documentary
◊ Exclusive: Clash Live DVD Due In April
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◊ Neil Young touts new tour documentary
◊ Joe Satriani and Vox Team Up On Signature Pedals
◊ Tiger Woods To Host Van Halen

- Our First Written Review Of 2008, Available Tomorrow!

Gibson Guitar Announces Exclusive Opportunity to Shred Like Slash on April 1, 2008

February.13th.2008 - Wednesday

Gibson Guitar, the world's premier musical instrument manufacturer and leader in music technology announces the first ever availability of a series of "Slash" signature Gibson and Epiphone Les Paul Standard electric guitars. On Tuesday April 1st 2008 three very limited and unique models of the Slash signature Les Paul guitar will be released simultaneously around the world. Each guitar model has been designed and produced in close co-operation with the legendary Velvet Revolver guitarist, Slash. For the first time ever, the Slash models will be available from Gibson Custom, Gibson USA and Epiphone offering consumers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a guitar inspired by Slash. On April 1, 2008 at 5pm US EDT select dealers will offer a limited number of these models for sale. Once they are sold out, they will not be reproduced.

Gibson Custom will release their Slash Inspired by VOS (Vintage Original Spec) guitar, Gibson USA will release their Slash Signature Les Paul Standard model and there will also be an Epiphone Slash Les Paul Standard Plus packaged with exclusive Slash inspired accessories. All three new guitar models will combine individual design features while Slash's own personal touches create a unique instrument destined to become another instant classic.

For twenty years, the spirit of rock 'n' roll has been embodied by one man. When he shot to fame with Guns N' Roses in 1987, Slash was the cool cat in the top hat, cranking out timeless riffs like "Welcome to the Jungle" and "Sweet Child O' Mine." And, at the same time setting the standard by which all future guitar heroes would be measured. Now fast-forward to 2008 and he's doing exactly the same with "Velvet Revolver."

"Slash embodies the true essence and spirit of rock n' roll. He is a master of his craft and respected the world over. Gibson is proud to partner with one of the worlds greatest guitar players. His signature range of guitars is symbolic and a true testament to his status and global recognition" said Henry Juszkiewicz, Chairman and CEO of Gibson Guitar. "I expect these limited edition run of guitars to sell out soon after they arrive in stores globally on 1st April 2008."

"I have always been a Les Paul player and am very proud to have my own range produced by Gibson and Epiphone, the maker of the world's greatest guitars. I hope that musicians around the world enjoy them as much as I do," said Slash.

3 Doors Down - It's Not My Time

Artist Release

The first single off 3 Doors Down's self-titled album made its debut on radio last night. "It's Not My Time" will be playing tonight on stations across the country.

You can listen to a clip of this brand new song via: www.myspace.com/3doorsdown.

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◊ The Who Mulls Next Album, Revisits Classics
◊ Stone Temple Pilots Reunite For Ohio Festival
◊ Tina Turner wows Grammy crowd with comeback
◊ Kravitz Postpones Tour After Illness
◊ Long-Awaited Replacements Reissues Due In April
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Introducing - Island Interactive

February.11th.2008 - Monday

Island Interactive: Audio Reviews, is a project hosted by Jere which consists of his comments on some recently released albums. Each episode will be approximately 15 minutes, this is an extension of the Island Cast series.

Episode 1 - The debut episode of a new podcasting series, features reviews on three new albums from - Sarah Brightman (Symphony), Lenny Kravitz (It Is Time For A Love Revolution), and Sheryl Crow (Detours).

All thoughts and opinions expressed are those of Shipwreck Island Studios.com, 15 second audio samples are copyrighted by the original owner/artist. All Rights Reserved.

Theme Song Written By: Tony, Recorded in 2006 @ Shipwreck Island Studios.com.
All Rights Reserved, Copyright 2006-2008.

Total Size 11meg, Running Time Approx. 16mins 14 sec, Recorded In 92kbps.

To Download Episode 1 Click Here.

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Music Related: (Links Are Subject To Change)

◊ SOLITARY - the second solo album from legendary Dokken vocalist Don Dokken . This exclusive release is only available on the internet and at the shows. A moving, almost spiritual trip, SOLITARY is a surprising release from one of Rock's greatest frontmen of all time. www.dokkenstore.com

◊ In surprise, Herbie Hancock wins album of the year
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◊ Mellencamp Songs Off McCain's Playlist
◊ Grammys fete Beatles
◊ Velvet Revolver Cancel Australian Gigs

◊ 'Jaws' actor Roy Scheider dies

Street Survivors - Deluxe Edition - 30th Anniversary

February.8th.2008 - Friday

Ronnie Van Zant considered STREET SURVIVORS Lynyrd Skynyrd's greatest achievement. A year in the making, the album was recorded twice. Now, on the two-CD STREET SURVIVORS - DELUXE EDITION - 30TH ANNIVERSARY (Geffen/UMe), released March 4, 2008, the previously unreleased first version debuts alongside the incendiary final studio album from the original Lynyrd Skynyrd issued in 1977.

The package also features the never-before-issued last known recordings of the band, five songs performed live at a Fresno, CA concert less than two months before the group's famously tragic plane crash.

By 1977, the Jacksonville, FL band -- singer Van Zant, guitarists Allen Collins and Gary Rossington, keyboardist Billy Powell, bassist Leon Wilkeson, and drummer Artimus Pyle -- had scored four hit albums and become one of America's top concert draws. There was a new member, guitarist Steve Gaines, and the group could take its time with a new album. The first version was recorded at Miami's Criteria Studios in winter 1976 and spring 1977 with renowned producer Tom Dowd. But, dissatisfied with the results, Skynyrd returned that summer to Studio One in Atlanta, where "Free Bird" and "Sweet Home Alabama" had been recorded, and produced the released version themselves.

On STREET SURVIVORS - DELUXE EDITION - 30TH ANNIVERSARY, both versions are heard of "You Got That Right," "I Never Dreamed" and "Ain't No Good Life" (the original with background vocals by the Honkettes); three versions of "That Smell" (including a never-before-heard extended guitar jam); a previously unreleased "What's Your Name," and a song dropped from the album, "Sweet Little Missy," as a demo and a master of the also axed "Georgia Peaches." Replacing the two deleted songs were "One More Time," a newly overdubbed track from six years earlier, and Merle Haggard's "Honky Tonk Night Time Man." A DELUXE EDITION bonus is Van Zant's autobiographical rewrite titled "Jacksonville Kid," the last song he wrote and recorded.

STREET SURVIVORS, the most anticipated Skynyrd album to date, shipped 500,000+ units, instantly earning gold status. But on October 20th, three days after its release, the band's tour plane ran out of gas and crashed into a Mississippi forest, killing Van Zant, Gaines, his singer sister Cassie, and their road manager, while seriously injuring the other bandmembers. Even as the album reached double platinum and scored a Top 10 hit in "What's Your Name," the survivors were devastated.

But STREET SURVIVORS, one of the classic albums of Southern Rock, was aptly named.

Naked Beggars - Welcome Back....

Artist Release

Welcome back Dustin!

Our drummer Lisa Rav recently decided to step away to pursue other endeavors, and will not be continuing the "XXX" Tour with us. We've had a great time over the past year and half with Lisa, and we wish her all the best!

We would like to take this opportunity to welcome back our original drummer, Dustin Delore who is rejoining Naked Beggars. Some of our fans may remember Dustin from when we were touring from '03-'04. For those of you who have not had an opportunity to catch a Beggars show with Dustin, prepare to be entertained both on and off the stage!!!

New "XXX" Tour Dates are being added often, so keep checkin' back...

It's time to get Naked! Cheers!

www.myspace.com/nakedbeggars

News Tidbits

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◊ Harem Scarem - Some updates on the upcoming DVD release. It is called "RAW & RARE" and almost ready to go. The band is also working hard on the new record, writing songs and they will be recording by the end of the month finishing up around the end of April with release dates soon after. www.haremscarem.net

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Ryan Shaw Tapped As Sole Support For Van Halen North American Arena Tour

February.7th.2008 - Thursday

Breakout soul singer Ryan Shaw has been tapped to open for Van Halen on the second North American leg of the band's hugely successful arena tour. Shaw will join the rock legends on their tour from February 22nd through April 7th (full itinerary listed below). The critically acclaimed tour features Van Halen's original lead singer, David Lee Roth, who has not performed with the band in over 22 years.

Shaw recently received his first Grammy nomination in the Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance category for "I am Your Man" from his debut release THIS IS RYAN SHAW. Shaw will perform at the Grammy Foundation's prestigious "Sounds of Change" event on February 6th alongside John Fogerty, Natasha Bedingfield, Jerry Lee Lewis, and others. He is also scheduled to perform at VH1's Save the Music event on February 8th.

Ryan Shaw's new video for "Do the 45" premiered on television at BET-J and online at Yahoo! Music this past week. In February, Bet-J will air a special "Soul Sessions" with Ryan Shaw. Throughout the past year, Shaw has performed on The Ellen Degeneres Show, The Martha Stewart Show, The CBS Saturday Early Show, Last Call with Carson Daly and Ellen Degeneres' first-ever primetime variety special Ellen's Really Big Show.

Shaw's retro inspired songs are rapidly moving the young singer to the forefront of modern soul. His electrifying performances have garnered him critical acclaim from fans and press alike. The Los Angeles Times raved, "Prepare to have your soul rocked." The Washington Post called Ryan "full of fire and conviction, exploding with energy and emotion." Billboard stated, "The Georgia native establishes himself as a massive talent with a huge voice straight out of the gate. THIS IS RYAN SHAW resuscitates soul in an electrifying way."

Ryan Shaw on tour supporting Van Halen:

FEBRUARY
22 Charlottesville, VA John Paul Jones Arena
25 Duluth, GA Gwinnett Arena

MARCH
3 Dallas, TX American Airlines Center
5 Cincinnati, OH US Bank Arena
7 Raleigh, NC RBC Center
9 Baltimore, MD 1st Mariner Arena
11 Manchester, NH Verizon Wireless Arena
13 East Rutherford, NJ Izod Arena
17 New York, NY Madison Square Garden
19 Hershey, PA Giant Center
21 Pittsburgh, PA Mellon Arena
24 Providence, RI Dunkin Donuts Center
26 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun Arena
28 Atlantic City, NJ Boardwalk Hall
30 St Louis, MO Scottrade Center

APRIL
1 Columbus, OH Value City Arena
3 Chicago, IL Allstate Arena
5 Grand Rapids, MI Van Andel Arena
7 Milwaukee, WI Bradley Center

Symphony - Scores #13

Press Release

"Symphony" by Sarah Brightman, the world's biggest selling soprano of all time, scores her highest U.S. chart debut this week at #13 on Billboard's Top 200 Albums chart with first week sales totaling 31,463. "Symphony" is Brightman's first album of new material in five years. Released by EMI/Manhattan Records on January 29, "Symphony" is a 13-track collection of all new songs, featuring duets with Andrea Bocelli, KISS' Paul Stanley, Alessandro Safina and Fernando Lima. "Symphony" also bows at #1 on three other Billboard charts -- Classical Overall Albums, Classical Crossover Albums and on Top Internet Albums.

"Symphony" enters at #17 on Billboard's Top Digital Albums chart. Brightman recently performed songs from "Symphony" on several national morning television programs including CBS Early Show, The View and Martha Stewart. She is also the featured singer in this year's Fashion on Ice which aired nationally last month on NBC and is currently airing on the Style Network.

Over the past two and a half decades, Sarah Brightman has distinguished herself as the world's biggest selling soprano of all time, with worldwide sales of more than 26 million albums and over two million DVDs. Brightman is a pioneer in transcending and melding mainstream musical genres, from pop and Broadway showstoppers to operatic and classical arias. Her unique crossover style has helped pave the way for superstar singers, such as Andrea Bocelli, Il Divo and Josh Groban.

Brightman's new PBS Special which debuted this week, will be a featured program during PBS's high profile pledge period. Filmed in Vienna at St. Stephen's Cathedral, the special showcases Brightman performing selections from "Symphony" as well as many favorites from her vast catalog including "Phantom of the Opera" and "Time To Say Goodbye." St. Stephen's Cathedral, which was built in 1147 AD and is one of Vienna's most famous sights, was a spectacular backdrop for Brightman's hour-long performance.

Additionally, Brightman has a starring role in Repo! The Genetic Opera, which was filmed in Canada, directed by Darren Lynn Bousman (of the Saw films) and is scheduled for release this spring. Sarah stars alongside Paul Sorvino, Alexa Vega, Anthony Head and Paris Hilton. Sarah is currently busy promoting "Symphony" in several countries and will also launch a worldwide tour this fall.

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3 Doors Down - New Album Details

February.6th.2008 - Wednesday

Universal Republic rock favorites 3 Doors Down will release their fourth studio album on May 6. The self-titled follow-up to their platinum-plus 2005 effort, Seventeen Days, is rumored to embody the fiery passion and creative maturation of a quintessential American rock band at the top of its game.

The first single will be “It’s Not My Time,” with other songs on the album including “It’s The Only One You’ve Got,” “Train,” and “Citizen Soldier.” With nearly 13 million albums sold worldwide, the melodic/tough-around-the-edges Mississippi/Nashville-based band has rewritten the rock script on maintaining commercial success and securing rabid fan appeal without bowing to trends or compromising their grassroots approach.

Braced by frontman Brad Arnold’s enduring vocal power, has put together an amazing streak of powerful albums and chart-topping singles, including their 2000 breakthrough multi-platinum effort, A Better Life, and epic mega-hit signature songs such as the #1 “Kryptonite,” and “When I’m Gone,” from 2003’s spiraling epic Away From The Sun. Other 3 Doors down highpoints include an American Music Award in 2000 for Best New Artist, and two 2003 Billboard Music Awards for Best Rock/Pop Group and Best Hot 100 Single for the #1 most played song of the year, the piercing “When I’m Gone.”

As fans would expect, the band hints that their upcoming new album pulls no punches. Forged during an ‘intense period of growth and soul searching,’ 3 Doors Down supporters are calling it a ‘defining, gut-driven’ effort that mines the band’s interpersonal chemistry as well as its oft-mentioned stature as keepers of the heritage rock flame.

In addition to this you can now preview the first single "It's Not My Time" now on the band's Myspace page!

Maroon 5 & Sara Evans.... CMT Crossroads

Artist Release

Maroon 5 and Sara Evans will tape an episode of CMT Crossroads on Jan. 29 in Nashville before an invitation-only audience. The episode will premiere in May on CMT. Fronted by Adam Levine, Maroon 5's hits include "Makes Me Wonder," "Harder to Breathe" and "This Love." They won the Grammy for best new artist in 2005. Evans released her Greatest Hits album last year. "I've been a Maroon 5 fan since their first single," says Evans. "I love Adam's voice so much and am extremely excited to do Crossroads with them. I think it's going to be a blast, and I can't wait."

Sara Evans and rock group Maroon 5 joined voices to tape an episode of CMT Crossroads on Tuesday (Jan. 29) at the Factory in Franklin, Tenn. Songs they performed before a turn-away crowd included "I Could Not Ask for More," "Won't Go Home Without You," "Real Fine Place to Start," "Wake Up Call," Prince's "Purple Rain" and the Stevie Nicks-Don Henley duet, "Leather and Lace." The show will air on CMT in May.

News Tidbits

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Plant & Krauss - CMT Crossroads

February.5th.2008 - Tuesday

Led Zeppelin front-man and legendary rocker, Robert Plant, and bluegrass superstar, Alison Krauss, share the stage performing their own classics as well as songs from their new album, Raising Sand in the next all-new episode of CMT CROSSROADS: ROBERT PLANT AND ALISON KRAUSS premiering Monday, February 11 at 8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., ET/PT. Plant and Krauss were recently nominated for a GRAMMY(R) in the category of "Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals" for the song "Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)" from Raising Sand. Click here to see their performance of "Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)" from CMT CROSSROADS on CMT.com.

Together, Plant and Krauss combine his rock intensity with her angelic grace for a phenomenal episode of CMT CROSSROADS. The two music icons perform songs from their new album, including "Please Read the Letter" and "Rich Woman." The pair performed Alison Krauss and Union Station's "The Boy Who Wouldn't Hoe Corn," as well as Led Zeppelin classics "Black Dog" and "When the Levee Breaks." The pair also pay homage to The Everly Brothers with their version of "Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)." Special guest, T Bone Burnett, acclaimed songwriter, performer and Raising Sand producer, joins in the onstage collaboration.

CMT CROSSROADS pairs country music stars with popular artists from other genres -- pop, rock, R&B -- to play together, swap stories, and share their common love of music. Recent episodes of CROSSROADS have included Lindsey Buckingham and Little Big Town; Steve Earle and Rosanne Cash; Bonnie Raitt and Lyle Lovett; Lionel Richie and Kenny Rogers; Bon Jovi and Sugarland; John Fogerty and Keith Urban; Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire; and Kenny "Babyface" Edmond and Trisha Yearwood; and, most recently, Joss Stone and LeAnn Rimes.

CMT CROSSROADS is presented by Alltel Wireless, the first title sponsor of the critically-acclaimed series and new advertiser for CMT. Alltel is owner and operator of the nation's largest wireless network and has 12 million customers.

For more information about Robert Plant and Alison Krauss log on to shorefire.com/clients/plantkrauss/.

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-If you haven't downloaded Island Cast's from season 1 and would still like to do so, please make sure you download them by Friday. We are going to be making room for season 2 and thus will be deleting all of season 1.

We are currently working on our first album reviews of 2008.

A Beautiful Lie - Music Video

February.4th.2008 - Monday

"A Beautiful Lie," the title track and current single from 30 Seconds to Mars' platinum album, marks the first music video ever shot 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle in Greenland. It is the third in a series of short films featuring songs from the band's 2005 album. (The previous two were "The Kill" and "From Yesterday," which was the first American music video shot in the People's Republic of China); both were directed by Bartholomew Cubbins. "A Beautiful Lie" directed by Angakok Panipaq premieres January 30th in an array of countries including the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Mexico, Brazil, Spain, Sweden and Denmark through a never before seen global Myspace exclusive event. This will be followed by a multi-channel and online media blitz.

"Shooting in Greenland was a dream come true and one of the most exciting adventures we've ever had as a band," says 30 Seconds to Mars lead vocalist Jared Leto. "Although incredibly challenging and at times it seemed just out of our reach, once we finally arrived the beauty and magnificence of the terrain, the wonderful culture of the people, and the amazing journey itself were all inspiring beyond belief. Almost everyone has heard of global warming by now but for the people of Greenland it is a real and tangible problem of today, not an issue of tomorrow. This journey changed our lives. We hope that with this film and new website we can share, in some small way, this incredible experience with our family of friends and fans around the world."

Determined to offset the impact that filming would have on the environment, the director, Angakok Panipaq and the band worked with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to develop strategies that would minimize fuel consumption on the shoot and purchased North American Blend Green Tags (a renewable energy certificate product) from the Bonneville Environmental Foundation. Purchasing Green Tags supports new renewable electricity generation, which offset the environmental effects of burning coal, gas and other fossil fuels across North America.

30 Seconds to Mars and the leading social media site Buzznet.com (www.buzznet.com) are bringing music, community and charity together by creating a "call to action" group. Beginning Wednesday, January 30, fans can go to abeautifullie.buzznet.com and upload personal videos to let the band and the world know what they're doing to help the environment. In addition, fans will be able to make donations through Buzznet to support the NRDC, the nation's most effective environmental action organization, and Buzznet will be matching all donations made through the site. Additionally 30 Seconds to Mars has also launched a second website - www.abeautifullie.org. The site will include information about current environmental issues, ways for kids to participate in environmental activities, links, tips for conservation and more.

"Greenland now is beginning to contribute significantly to sea level rise," says Jay Zwally, a glaciologist with NASA. "There's been a significant change in a relatively short period of time." It is now losing between 52 and 63 cubic miles of ice mass each year; projections of future climate change indicate continued warming over Greenland if greenhouse gas emissions remain unchecked.

2007 was a banner year for 30 SECONDS TO MARS. "The Kill" earned the distinction of being the longest-running hit in the history of Billboard's Modern Rock chart, peaking at #3 and logging 52 weeks on the chart while follow-up single "From Yesterday" hit #1. The band co-headlined the "Rockstar Taste of Chaos Tour" in the States in the spring and kept on touring, hitting Australia, Japan, Europe, the UK and Latin America and collecting awards along the way (including two MTV Australia Video Music Awards and an MTV Europe Video Music Award). In January 2008, 30 SECONDS TO MARS will kick off a sold-out tour of the UK and Europe.

Watch the video here: http://vids.myspace.com

LNJ 4-1-08

Press Release

Liberty N' Justice "4-All The Best Of LNJ" is being released across North America on April 1st. It features songs from the last three LNJ records (which featured guest vocals from Lou Gramm of Foreigner, Sebastian Bach, Jani Lane of Warrant, Michael Sweet of Stryper to name a few). It all so features 4 brand new tracks recorded exclusively for this CD featuring guest vocals by Dug Pinnick of Kings X, Steve Brown of Trixter/ Stereo Fallout, Derrick Lefevre of Lillian Ax, Larry Worley of FearNot , and Dale & Troy Thompson of Bride.

For a limited time you can hear Dale and Troy's track "Author Of The Flame"on LNJ's myspace page (www.myspace.com/libertynjustice2). The song was written by Dale,Troy, Shawn Pelata of Line Of Fire and Justin Murr. Unlike other LNJ CDs the "Best Of" will be available at first only at retail locations in North America and exclusively in Europe though MusicBuyMail and ArtistWorxx. More info soon....

Def Leppard - Songs From The Sparkle Lounge Update

Artist Release

Well, it's one of the constants in the history of Def Leppard, and we regret to inform you that it has popped up again: the release of the band's new album "SONGS FROM THE SPARKLE LOUNGE" has been pushed back (even though the date we mentioned two weeks ago was only a tentative date to start with). The album is now scheduled to come out on MAY 5 in the UK and MAY 6 in North America (international dates have not been confirmed yet, but it will probably be May 6 as well). I guess we don't need to tell you that these dates are also tentative and subject to change.

We can also give you the working titles of all the tracks scheduled to appear on the album. From the way things look now, 11 songs from the Sparkle Lounge will be making their way to your CD player:

NINE LIVES
C'MON C'MON
GO
LOVE
CRUISE CONTROL
BAD ACTRESS
HALLUCINATE
TOMORROW
COME UNDONE
ONLY THE GOOD DIE YOUNG
GIVE IT AWAY

Please note that some of these titles may still change (they're working titles, after all) and that they are not listed in any particular order.

www.defleppard.com

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"Across The Universe"

February.1st.2008 - Friday

For the first time ever, NASA will beam a song -- The Beatles' "Across the Universe" -- directly into deep space at 7 p.m. EST on Feb. 4.

The transmission over NASA's Deep Space Network will commemorate the 40th anniversary of the day The Beatles recorded the song, as well as the 50th anniversary of NASA's founding and the group's beginnings. Two other anniversaries also are being honored: The launch 50 years ago this week of Explorer 1, the first U.S. satellite, and the founding 45 years ago of the Deep Space Network, an international network of antennas that supports missions to explore the universe.

The transmission is being aimed at the North Star, Polaris, which is located 431 light years away from Earth. The song will travel across the universe at a speed of 186,000 miles per second. Former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney expressed excitement that the tune, which was principally written by fellow Beatle John Lennon, was being beamed into the cosmos.

"Amazing! Well done, NASA!" McCartney said in a message to the space agency. "Send my love to the aliens. All the best, Paul."

Lennon's widow, Yoko Ono, characterized the song's transmission as a significant event.

"I see that this is the beginning of the new age in which we will communicate with billions of planets across the universe," she said.

It is not the first time Beatles music has been used by NASA; in November 2005,

McCartney performed the song "Good Day Sunshine" during a concert that was transmitted to the International Space Station. "Here Comes the Sun," "Ticket to Ride" and "A Hard Day's Night" are among other Beatles' songs that have been played to wake astronaut crews in orbit.

Feb. 4 has been declared "Across The Universe Day" by Beatles fans to commemorate the anniversaries. As part of the celebration, the public around the world has been invited to participate in the event by simultaneously playing the song at the same time it is transmitted by NASA. Many of the senior NASA scientists and engineers involved in the effort are among the group's biggest fans.

"I've been a Beatles fan for 45 years -- as long as the Deep Space Network has been around," said Dr. Barry Geldzahler, the network's program executive at NASA Headquarters, Washington. "What a joy, especially considering that 'Across the Universe' is my personal favorite Beatles song."

Habbo And The Donnas

Press Release

Habbo (www.habbo.com), the leading global online virtual world for teenagers, today announced that rock 'n' roll rebels, The Donnas, will check into the community for an interview with fans.

The popular all-female, indie-rock band will visit the Habbo Theaterdome Thursday, January 31 at 3 p.m. (PST)/6 p.m. (EST). Fans are invited to hang out with The Donnas, ask questions about their latest album, Bitchin', which include the hits "Don't Wait Up For Me" and "Wasted" and find out about their new label, Purple Feather Records.

For the opportunity to meet The Donnas, log in to Habbo or join for free by going to www.habbo.com and clicking on the "Register Now" button. To hear the exclusive live discussion with famed Habbo DJ duo, Whimsy and RubbeeRED, tune into Habbo's Internet Radio Stream, Habbo Radio.

About The Donnas
Brett Anderson (lead vocals), Maya Ford, (bass), Allison Robertson (guitar) and Torry Castellano (drums) comprise the legendary Donnas. The four self-described "dorky pre-teen girls" formed the alt-rock band while in junior high school in Palo Alto, CA. They have gone on to record seven albums, including their latest hit Bitchin'. In 2007, The Donnas also started their own label, Purples Feather Records. You can find out more about the band at www.thedonnas.com.

About Habbo
Habbo is a richly colorful, multi-dimensional virtual community and game environment for teens. Users join by creating a fully customized online character called a Habbo. From there, they can explore many public hang-outs, play a variety of games, connect with friends, decorate their own rooms, and have fun through creativity and self expression. Currently there are Habbo communities in 31 countries on five continents. To date, more than 86 million Habbo characters have been created and 8.3 million unique users worldwide visit Habbo each month (source: Google Analytics). Habbo is operated by Sulake Corporation, a Finnish online entertainment company. www.habbo.com

Keith Varon = The Red Letter Tie

Artist Release / MySpace

Hey Guys,

How is everyone. Man it's been raining like crazy over here. NON STOP!! Good thing the new band and I have been under cover rehearsing our &*& off.

So, some of you might have noticed some of the changes going around the Keith Varon myspace. It's so exciting! We finally have found the band members that this project has been looking for. This has been a long time dream of mine to actually have a band where all the player were on the same page and finally that has happened! We have been rehearsing all week getting the new guys up to speed on some of my new songs. It's basically the same style of music with a little bit more of an edge. The live shows are going to be amazing. We are going to be working so hard to give you guys an amazing show every time we play no matter how many people are there. We are also going to be working with producer/manager Stephen Short who signed Augustana to their deal with Epic a few years back. We are hoping he will do the same for us.

In the next few months you all are going to be seeing some changes occurring on the page here. It's all very exciting. We also plan on recording some new songs and plan on playing a lot of shows during spring into summer and will be looking into touring again. This time as a band! Soon we will be posting new video blogs and such that are going to be hilarious so stay tuned.

xoxo, Keith

First Video Blog Of His New Band

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New Kids On The Block - Reunion... Update & Danny Wood Album

January.30th.2008 - Wednesday

Many sites across the internet are running with a piece of information that says NKOTB are not reforming, which may or may not be the case. Former New Kid On The Block member Danny Wood posted the following via his MySpace page:

Hi to all the New Kids On The Block fans, I wanted to clarify since my first post this morning regarding the NKOTB reunion. I loved being a part of the group, and have always thought "maybe someday we'll get back together" – you just never know when your someday will come. I can guarantee all the fans that if this reunion were to happen, they would hear about it first on www.NKOTB.com.

And if you want to hear about this "possible" reunion then just run over to www.nkotb.com. There are 2 new song clips which play during a small introduction video which points toward a reunion.

Whatever the case maybe, no one is giving a clear piece of information at this point and only time will tell if the "kids" are back for more.

As far as releases go, Danny Wood will be releasing his 2nd solo album entitled "Coming Home" on Feb. 8th in Australia and worldwide via online purchase. The first single "Beautiful Bad Girl" hits radio airwaves in February. You can currently listen to 6 new songs via his MySpace page. "Coming Home" is clearly a move away from the pop/rock atmosphere one would assume, soft acoustic all around.

iVideosongs

Press Release

iVideosongs announced today the launch of its beta on-demand, high-def video service (www.iVideosongs.com) that shows aspiring musicians of all skill levels how to play their favorite songs. iVideosongs instruction is provided by the original artists who wrote and performed the songs and also by expert instructors. iVideosongs is introducing its new service at the DEMO 08 conference, one of the premier venues for launching new companies and services.

"Aspiring musicians want to play complete songs accurately, and that's exactly what we give them," said Tim Huffman, CEO of iVideosongs. "We've recruited established artists, legendary sidemen and some of the best instructors on the planet to teach rock, pop, blues and country songs. With iVideosongs, aspiring musicians learn the songs at their pace, when and
where they want."

iVideosongs has licensed full rights to its songs from BMG Music Publishing, EMI Music Publishing, Sony/ATV Music Publishing, Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner/Chappell Music and also many secondary and tertiary publishers. This allows the company to provide complete and accurate instructional titles, presented exactly as they were originally written and performed. The iVideosongs titles are primarily for electric and acoustic guitarists, but titles for bass, keyboards and drums are also included in the launch.

Artists from The Doobie Brothers, The Allman Brothers Band, Sting's band, 3 Doors Down, Switchfoot, Rush, 38 Special, Alter Bridge and Vertical Horizon are featured in the iVideosongs catalog. Other participating artists include Graham Nash, Jim Messina, Russ Kunkel, Scotty Moore and Giles Martin.

"It means a lot to me that people want to learn my songs and that they want to play them the same way I wrote and performed them," said John Oates, songwriter and co-founder of the rock and soul band, Hall & Oates. "iVideosongs gives me a very personal and powerful way to connect with my fans, and an unparalleled way to show them how to play my songs."

iVideosongs customers can choose a skill level and genre, and then download the high-def titles to their personal computer, iPod or other device. Each song title is presented in chapter format, so aspiring musicians learn the introduction, verse, chorus, bridge, outro and other elements in bite-size pieces and at their own pace. Each title also includes a master performance, so customers can compare their progress against the song, and tablature notation to aid in learning. Titles featuring artists also include an interview segment, where they reveal the inspiration and influences that went into the creation of the song.

The iVideosongs site also offers free tutorials to help aspiring musicians develop proficiency in techniques such as slide guitar, playing chordal fills and walking bass lines.

"A consistent theme in today's greatest innovations is giving individuals easy, on-demand access to highly desired content that was previously unobtainable," said Chris Shipley, executive producer of the DEMO conferences. "We selected iVideosongs to present at DEMO because its disruptive solution has the potential to be a very powerful democratizing force in music instruction."

iVideosongs titles live on customers' devices, so they can practice whenever and wherever they like -- and at $4.99 to own an instructor title and $9.99 to own an artist title -- they are a highly cost-effective option compared to private instruction, which may cost $35, $50 or even more an hour.

"Some musicians may learn a segment after two or three times through, while others may need to practice it 10 or more times. We cater to both," Huffman said.

iVideosongs has a patent-pending instruction methodology that features close-up images of both hands on a guitar or piano, for instance, that can be consumed by customers at their own speed and on their own schedule.

iVideosongs.com debuts as a beta site with an introductory catalog of 50 song titles and 25 tutorials. The catalog features a balance of songs from today's artists and also some classic rock songs. "We're eager to interact with the vibrant community of musicians and get their feedback on our site, content and future direction of the catalog," said Huffman. "We plan to add titles on a weekly basis and make them available on the site thru the course of the beta."

Huffman continued, "Musicians across the country have told us they are frustrated by the poor quality video scattered around the Internet, by being limited to riffs and techniques instead of songs, and by the one-dimensional and inaccurate tablature sites. We're going to change the music-instruction landscape by showing aspiring musicians how to play complete songs accurately, in a clear and easy-to-follow format."

iVideosongs.com features:
-- Original artists and world-class instructors showing how to play complete and accurate songs
-- Rock, pop, blues and country titles and multiple skill levels
-- Purchased titles can be played on-demand on multiple devices
-- Tablature and chord notation included for each title to aid in learning
-- Free technique tutorials (slide guitar, chordal fills, walking bass lines, etc.)
-- Patent-pending video instruction technique in high-def

Pricing and availability

The iVideosongs beta site is available today at www.iVideosongs.com. Pricing ranges from $4.99 for an instructor title to $9.99 for an artist title. Tutorials are free.

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