"Awakening" Video

Switchfoot - Band Release
April.11th.2007 - Wednesday

I can finally say that our new video for our new single, "Awakening," is done and ready for your happy consumption. We really love this song, and we're glad that many of you do as well. I'm proud to say that this new video is one of our favorites! I hope you dig it as much as we do...

The concept of the video:
The traditional concept of a music video can be a bit surreal, lip-synching to your own songs can feel especially comical at times! With this irony in mind we wanted to make a video that doesn't take itself too seriously, even if the song itself is dealing with weighty issues... to make a music video that tells a different story than the song is already telling us. The song exists in a space entirely on its own, and nothing will ever add or subtract from what the song already is- why not use the video as a vehicle to go somewhere new? Somewhere that the song hasn't already been on it's own? So here, my friends, is an attempt to do just that.

The making of the video:
We had a lot of fun making this video. We actually made this video on our own dime, with our talented good friend Brandon Dickerson, who made two of our earlier videos. We also had the incredible opportunity of working with three extremely talented and funny actors: Tony Hale (Stranger than Fiction, Arrested Development), Adam Campbell (Epic Movie), and Jayma Mays (Heroes). The most challenging and time-consuming portion of the video was the creating of the "animated" television. To create this effect, we printed out each individual frame (24 frames per second -- that's a lot of frames!), and then hand-ripped each person from each frame, placing each frame sequentially after the other to re-create the action (think claymation with photos!). This technique has actually never been done before, and took a total of 8 days, with 10 to 20 people working around the clock (some of you even stopped by to help out!).

Thank you for singing along, -tim

Video Can Be Viewed At: www.switchfoot.com/awakening

 

Major U.S. Tour

Operator - Press Release

Operator has announced details of their upcoming U.S. tour. The dates herald the Los Angeles-based rock outfit's upcoming debut album, SOULCRUSHER, set to arrive in stores on July 3rd.

The trek sees Operator taking part in the inaugural MadPackers.com 'Door To Dorm Music Tour,' joining a star-studded lineup that includes Hinder, Papa Roach, and Puddle of Mudd. The hard rock megabill will hit college campuses, theatres, and amphitheatres across America, kicking off on April 13th at the University of Pittsburgh's Johnstown Sports Center. Operator will wrap up their tour run on May 19, at Rock on the Range in Columbus, OH.

With its thunderous rhythms, passionate melodies, and urgent messages, SOULCRUSHER conjures the spirit of such classic artists as Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, and Guns N' Roses yet maintains a spirit and philosophy that transcends its influences. Tracks such as the volatile "Nothing To Lose" and the swaggering title track offer ample evidence of Operator's no-holds-barred attitude and passion for creativity.

All Dates w/MadPackers.com "Door To Dorm Music Tour"
featuring Hinder, Papa Roach, and Puddle of Mudd unless otherwise noted by *

APRIL
13 Johnstown, PA University of Pittsburgh
14 Cullowhee, NC Western Carolina University
16 Dahlonega, GA North Georgia College
17 Chattanooga, TN Memorial Auditorium
19 Maryville, MO Northwest Missouri State
22 Lubbock, TX Lone Star Amphitheater
23 Wichita Falls, TX Kay Yeager Coliseum
27 Fairfield, CT Sacred Heart University
28 Clarion, PA Clarion University

MAY
1 Aiken, SC University of South Carolina - Aiken
4 Birmingham, AL Schaeffer Eye Center Crawfish Boil
5 Jackson, MS Jackson Coliseum Fairgrounds
8 Green Bay, WI Resch Center
9 Madison, WI Alliant Energy Center
11 Nashville, TN Nashville Riverfront Park
12 St. Louis, MO Verizon Wireless Amphitheater (Pointfest)*
13 Indianola, IN Indianola Nat'l Balloon Launch Field (Lazerfest)*
16 Philadelphia, PA Electric Factory
17 Sayreville, NJ Starland Ballroom
19 Columbus, OH Columbus Crew Stadium (Rock on the Range)*

For additional details visit: www.myspace.com/operatormusic

 

DRM Free, Microsoft?

www.windowsitpro.com

Lost amid the hoopla last week over EMI's announcement that it will sell digital music without Digital Rights Management (DRM) restrictions was the fact that Apple wasn't the only online music service to sign on for the DRM-free music offerings. This week, Microsoft also admitted that it will offer music without DRM.

"The EMI announcement is not exclusive to Apple," a Microsoft spokesperson said. "Consumers have made it clear that unprotected music is something they want. We plan on offering it to them as soon as our label partners are comfortable with it." Microsoft said that it has been working with EMI and other record labels for quite some time, and will offer DRM-free music as soon as possible via the Zune Marketplace, Microsoft's online service for the Zune.

What's unclear is which file format Microsoft will choose to sell its music in. Apple will sell DRM-free music in the Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) format, which has serious compatibility problems with non-Apple hardware. Microsoft currently sells music on the Zune Marketplace in the Windows Media Audio (WMA) format, which suggests that the company will continue to do so when DRM is no longer required. However, EMI said that online music services can use whatever format they'd like, including the industry-standard MP3 format, which is the most interoperable format.

If Microsoft would like to one-up Apple--and I'm guessing that the software giant would--it should use the MP3 format. Doing so would be a great way to ensure that the more expensive and consortium-owned AAC format doesn't become the de facto standard.

Digital Music Stores Added

Island Write-Up

We recently added a few legal downloading stores to our MySpace page. You can now purchase music from Bad Side, Janeen Leah and Fraze Gang for 99 cents a track, legally! The stores are run through the Snocap company in conjunction with MySpace. Now I know many of you will ask, "What Is Snocap?" Below is the company bio as well as links so you can better familiarize yourself with these bands as well as this new digital media.

Founded by Shawn Fanning, Jordan Mendelson and Ron Conway in 2002, SNOCAP aims to be the trusted solution powering the global marketplace for digital media. Because SNOCAP's Digital Registry is open to all rightsholders (large, medium and small), SNOCAP will bring the largest possible catalog of licensed content to the digital media marketplace. Using SNOCAP, content providers can easily manage all aspects of digital distribution, establish business rules, and maintain full control of their content across multiple online retail locations. In turn, online retailers and authorized peer-to-peer networks have access to all of the music in this registry and can therefore make it available for consumer's to purchase.

Snocap Website:
◊ www.snocap.com

MySpace Page Links:
◊ www.myspace.com/shipwreckislandstudios
◊ www.myspace.com/badsidemusic
◊ www.myspace.com/janeenleah
◊ www.myspace.com/frazegang

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

◊ Beach Boys lose $60 mln lawsuit over memorabilia
◊ Cleaner Sued Over Trashed Beatles Photos
◊ Fire Destroys Longtime Johnny Cash Home

The Songs Of Journey

Kevin Chalfant - Fly 2 Freedom - Press Release
April.10th.2007 - Tuesday

April 8, 2007 - Kevin Chalfant is finalizing work on a new 13-track cd entitled FLY 2 FREEDOM. The cd is expected to be released in May of 2007 on Clique Records. The tracks on the new CD are all of his favorite Journey songs, as a tribute to the music that Kevin honors to be some of the finest works done by any Melodic Rock band, ever.

Kevin states, "The musicians and songwriters of Journey are simply the best in the music industry." He adds, "The Journey love-laden sound has won the hearts of millions of fans world wide. I am proud to consider them personal friends and label them America's Finest Rock Band. Over the years, my fans have requested that I cover Journey's music. This cd was conceived to satisfy those fan requests."

Please check www.KevinChalfant.com for FLY2Freedom updates. Sign up as Kevin Chalfant's friend on www.myspace.com/kevinchalfant and you could win cool Kevin Chalfant Fly2FR33DOM swag.

 

"The Edge Of The Razor" Video To Be Filmed

Lion's Share - Press Release

Swedish heavy metal masters LION'S SHARE will film a video for the song "The Edge of the Razor" on April 15 in Stockholm. The track features a guest solo from Bruce Kulick (KISS), and comes off the group's comeback album, "Emotional Coma", which is scheduled for release on June 15 through AFM Records. Check out the cover artwork at www.lionsshare.org

According to a press release, "Emotional Coma" is "the heaviest and most powerful LION'S SHARE record to date" and it features guest appearances by Kulick, Glen Drover (MEGADETH) and Mats Levén (THERION, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN). The band features guitar player and founding member Lars Chriss, along with vocalist Patrik Johansson (ASTRAL DOORS, WUTHERING HEIGHTS), bass player Sampo Axelsson (GLENN HUGHES) and well-known session drummer Richard Evensand (CHIMAIRA, SOILWORK, THERION).

"Emotional Coma" track listing:

01. Cult of Denial
02. The Arsonist
03. Emotional Coma (feat. Glen Drover)
04. Clones of Fate
05. The Edge of the Razor (feat. Bruce Kulick)
06. Toxication Rave
07. Trafficking
08. Bloodstained Soil
09. Soultaker
10. Hatred's My Fuel
11. Sorcerers (ANGEL WITCH cover)
12. Ring of Stupidity (bonus track for Japan and digipak)

In other news, LION'S SHARE has lined up the following shows:

June 01 - Fjongstock Festival, Sundsvall
June 07 (or June 9) - Sweden Rock Festival, Norje
June 29 - Mälarrocken Festival, Västerås

Also on the LION'S SHARE-related front, official LS fan club has launched a new web site at www.lionssharearmy.com

 

New Audio Finally Available

FUEL - Press Release

Click on the links below to hear a clip of the new track "Wasted Time" from the new forthcoming album from Fuel:
RealAudio | QuickTime | Windows Media: lo - hi

And then visit www.fuelweb.com to hear a clip of "Gone!"

Stay tuned for more information about this forthcoming album, Fuel's new lead singer & more!

For all the latest on Fuel, visit: www.fuelweb.com

Off The Record Guests

Additional Shows Added

Sunday (April 15th) will feature the music of The Rolling Stones as well as Joe's brand new conversation with Bill Wyman.

Sunday (April 22nd) will feature the music of REO Speedwagon as well as Joe's brand new conversation with singer Kevin Cronin.

Sunday (April 29th) will feature the music of Queen as well as conversation with all four members of the band.

Sunday (May 6th) will feature the music of Cheap Trick as well as more of Joe's extensive conversation with guitarist Rick Nielsen.

Sunday (May 13th) will feature the music of Jethro Tull as well as more of Joe's conversation with Ian Anderson and Martin Barre.

Sunday (May 20th) will feature the music of and Joe's brand new conversation with Stevie Nicks.

Sunday (May 27th) will feature the music of the ZZ Top and more of Joe's extensive conversation with guitarist/singer Billy F. Gibbons.

For additional information please visit: www.unclejoe.com/xotr.html  /  www.offtherecordshow.com

XM Then Again Live

Gary Wright - Dreamweaver

A definitive mid-seventies classic album...re-recorded with today's technology and a polished group of musicians and singers. You will hear an intimate but twenty first century presentation of this timeless record that retains all of its original magic...plus delivers the inspiration that only a re-think and re-performance can make happen.

Broadcast Dates: (Week of April 23rd)
4/24 at 3PM ET - Deep Tracks - XM 40
4/26 at 9PM ET - Deep Tracks - XM 40
4/29 at Noon ET - Deep Tracks - XM 40
4/29 at 10PM ET - 70's - XM 7

This program is exactly the same format in which REO Speedwagon recorded their Hi Infidelity album for release in their "Find Your Own Way Home" boxset. For additional information: www.xmradio.com/onxm/

Mark Norton aka Mark St. John Passes

KISSONLINE.com - 4/05/07

Sad to report that Mark Norton aka Mark St. John, KISS' lead guitarist on Animalize, passed away this morning of a cerebral hemorrhage. Mark was 51 years old.

KISS remembers Mark for his contributions and sends their condolences and deepest sympathies to his family and friends.

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

◊ Official REO Speedwagon Website - New Site Design
◊ CMT Interviews Krauss/Waite
◊ Kevin Costner Sues Music Promoter
◊ Saviours Of Rock Interview Bill Leverty

New Album Reviews

April.9th.2007 - Monday

REO Speedwagon - Find Your Own Way Home:
Well the day has come where The Island looks at REO's latest release. We wrote articles, made concept album artwork and gave you up to date information week by week until its release. This is one of the most highly anticipated albums of the year. Even the band members have been doing radio shows like crazy. How did we feel about the new cover art? What are the bonus materials in the Wal-Mart exclusive boxset?

◊ Here is our full review of REO's album "Find Your Own Way Home."

 

Mini Reviews

         

In our latest round of mini reviews we look at 2 recently released Pop albums in Hilary Duff's "Dignity" & Jordan Puritt's "No Ordinary Girl" as well as the latest from metal band Machine Men in "Circus Of Fools." Read The Mini's Here!

Regular News Updates will return tomorrow!

Happy Easter

April.6th.2007 - Friday

A big Happy Easter to everyone out there! Stay safe, have fun and enjoy time with friends and family. Regular news updates will return on Tuesday, but on Monday a few new reviews will be posted. (Finally!) Tony & Jere

 

SoulCrusher Music Video

Operator - Press Release
April.5th.2007 - Thursday

Lots of hard rock bands channel insecurity and pessimism into songs that spit and roar about the unfairness of it all. Operator takes the opposite approach. Fronted by consummate performer, multi-instrumentalist, mixed martial arts fighter, gunslinger, and all around modern renaissance man Johnny Strong, Operator is all about believing in yourself, embracing the moment and making the impossible happen.

A soldier of self-empowerment, Strong speaks with a commanding voice that rings loudly throughout Soulcrusher, Operator's major label debut. A triumphant album in the spirit of some of Strong's favorite artists - Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Guns N' Roses - Soulcrusher pays homage to the past, but maintains a spirit and philosophy that transcends its influences. More than anything, the disc is an inspirational reality slap, a high five to those who make the most out of life, and a dire warning to anyone who lacks the courage to follow their dreams. The band features Paul James Phillips (ex-Puddle of Mudd) on guitar.

Johnny chose the band's name from a documentary he saw about the downing of a helicopter in Mogadishu, a story that was later turned into Ridley Scott's film "Black Hawk Down," in which Strong played a Delta Operator.

Be prepared for more Operator in the near future as the album SOULCRUSHER drops into stores July 3rd.

You can view the band's new music video by visiting their MySpace page: www.myspace.com/operatormusic

Great White Signs

Frontiers - Press Release/Email/Newsletter

Frontiers Records is proud to announce the signing of GREAT WHITE for the release of the band's forthcoming 25th Anniversary / Reunion all-original studio album in august 2007 !

The Southern California blues-rock band first took a bite out of the rock scene in 1984 and since then has achieved worldwide success, encompassing sales of over six million records. They received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Hard Rock Performance for the song "Once Bitten, Twice Shy" and earned a double platinum certification for the album ".Twice Shy".

The soulful, blues-based signature sound that turned songs like "Face The Day", "Rock Me" and "Save Your Love" into international hits, can also be found on the new songs which are currently being mixed by the band's keyboard player Michael Lardie.

"I don't feel it's a record where we have tried to reinvent ourselves", says guitar player Mark Kendall, "It's like everything you have liked or disliked over our entire career rolled into 1 record and then some. But everyone has grown musically and I think that will show through".

The - still untitled - new album, is the first all original in 8 years and was recorded in just three weeks during March '07. The process was very spontaneous. According to drummer Audie Desbrow: "The recording experience was a blast. We had a lot of fun doing this one", while Michael Lardie adds: "The one thing I wanted to make sure of, was that FUN was the signpost for every bit of recording we did, no stress, loose, upbeat, mission accomplished! Egos have been checked at the door and decisions are made as to what is best for each song".

Bassist Sean McNabb comments: "I think we had creative control on this one and everyone got to give ideas, that made it a band thing".

Michael Lardie concludes: "The new songs sound fresh to me, very Great White but with an approach of what we sound like in a live performance situation. Kendall and I are having fun channeling our Stones roots and playing off each other in the Richards/Woods tradition".

Great White has been churning out memorable songs since the early 80's, when singer Jack Russell and guitarist Mark Kendall joined forces and adopted a blues-based sound that went against the era's glam rock grain. Their independently released EP "Out of the Night" sold 20,000 copies and brought Great White to sign a deal with EMI America, which issued the eponymous "Great White" in 1984.

"Shot in the Dark", their follow-up independent release, marked the arrival of drummer Audie Desbrow. By the time Capitol Records signed the band and reissued "Shot in the Dark", keyboardist-guitarist Michael Lardie had come aboard. Great White then hit the road with Dokken and was on the verge of even bigger success. The 1987 follow-up "Once Bitten.", which featured the hit tracks "Rock Me", "Lady Red Light", and "Save Your Love", went platinum. Their next album ".Twice Shy", which featured the Top 5 hit "Once Bitten, Twice Shy", more than doubled that tally.

The late 80's were boom years for the band, marked by non-stop touring with some of the biggest bands of the era and playing also in Europe and Japan. Great White recorded two more albums for Capitol - "Hooked", which was certified gold and "Psycho City".

Although Capitol issued a Best Of compilation in 1993, Great White had already departed the label to begin work on their next studio release, "Sail Away", released on Zoo Records in 1994 supporting it with relentless touring. Their next release, "Let It Rock" in 1996.

Great White then signed with Portrait Records, an imprint founded by A&R guru John Kalodner that featured fellow hard rock acts such as Ratt. "Can't Get There from Here" was released in 1999 and is the band's last studio opus thus far.

Frontiers Records plans to release the newest album at the end of August 2007. More details will be released at a later stage.

www.mistabone.com / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

◊ Lennon Piano to Be Displayed in Memphis

◊ Pearl Jam Confirms Lollapalooza Appearance

Poison'D

New Poison Album & Tour - Press Release
April.4th.2007 - Wednesday

Poison, one of rock's most iconic and enduring bands, has recorded a new album of cover songs, featuring many of their favorite rock classics. POISON'D, the band's first new studio album since 2002, will be released June 5 on CD and digitally by EMI America Records/Capitol.

Featuring Poison's original members, Bret Michaels (vocals), C.C. DeVille (guitar), Rikki Rockett (drums) and Bobby Dall (bass), POISON'D presents the band's first new studio recordings since 2002's Hollyweird. Produced by Don Was at Hensen Recording Studios in Hollywood, POISON'D packs 13 explosive tracks, including new recordings of David Bowie's "Suffragette City," The Cars' "You're Just What I Needed," The Romantics' "What I Like About You," Sweet's "Little Willy," The Marshall Tucker Band's "Can't You See" and The Rolling Stones' "Dead Flowers." Some of Poison's best previously recorded covers are also featured on POISON'D, including KISS' "Rock and Roll All Nite," Grand Funk Railroad's "We're An American Band" and Loggins and Messina's "Your Mama Don't Dance."

"Poison is one of the greatest rock 'n roll bands in the world and, after 20 years, they can slam better than ever," says POISON'D producer Don Was. "They're powerful musicians and very cool guys. We had a lot of fun making this album and I think you can hear it in the grooves -- it's got the jive and is truly alive! I urge everyone to listen to it!"

Following the release of POISON'D, Poison will hit the road again on June 12 for a major North American summer concert tour. Tour dates and details will be announced and posted to the band's official website as they are confirmed. Visit www.poisonweb.com and www.myspace.com/poison for the latest Poison news and links to other Poison-related websites.

In July, VH1 will premiere a new reality show, "Rock of Love with Bret Michaels." VH1's description of the show has "the hard-rockin' Poison front man looking for a woman who can truly keep up with his rock-n-roll lifestyle and not become jealous of his one true passion -- performing, which has been the reason for and destruction of most of his relationships."

In 1986, Poison released their debut album, Look What the Cat Dragged In. After years of hard work, touring and controversy, radio and MTV finally took notice of the band and their music, propelling Poison into superstardom. Look What the Cat Dragged In peaked at #3 on the Billboard album charts, charted three singles and sold more than four million copies.

The band's 1988 follow-up, Open Up and Say ... Ahh! went Platinum two weeks after its release. The single "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" hit #1 on Billboard's Singles chart and the album sold more than seven million units. 1990's Flesh & Blood featured a second Gold single, "Unskinny Bop," and the album went multi-Platinum.

In 1991, amidst inner fighting, alcohol, drug abuse and road stories that would make a porn star blush, guitarist C.C. Deville and singer Bret Michaels collided in an all out fist-fight seconds after leaving the stage of the MTV Music Video Awards (right between Cindy Crawford's high heels and Eddie Van Halen's sneakers). C.C. Deville left the band.

Poison continued to tour arenas and amphitheatres and recorded the Platinum Native Tongue and Crack A Smile. After five years of not speaking, Michaels and Deville met up in 1999 and, with their chemistry and friendship quickly rekindled, the band went into the studio to record Power To The People. One of the most successful reunion tours of all time followed the album's release.

Last April, Poison rocketed into the Billboard Top 20 with the #17 debut of the band's 20th anniversary hits collection, The Best Of Poison: 20 Years Of Rock (Capitol/EMI). The 18-track hits collection was soon certified gold, and Poison tore through the summer of 2006 on their highly successful "20 Years of Rock" North American concert tour. To date, Poison has sold more than 25 million records and DVDs worldwide.

POISON'D (CD and Digital Album)
(NOT FINAL SEQUENCE)
1. Little Willy (originally performed by Sweet)
2. Suffragette City (originally performed by David Bowie)
3. I Never Cry (originally performed by Alice Cooper)
4. I Need to Know (originally performed by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers)
5. Can't You See (originally performed by The Marshall Tucker Band)
6. What I Like About You (originally performed by The Romantics)
7. Dead Flowers (originally performed by The Rolling Stones)
8. Just What I Needed (originally performed by The Cars)
9. Rock and Roll All Nite (originally performed by Kiss)
10. Squeeze Box (originally performed by The Who)
11. Your Mama Don't Dance (originally performed by Loggins & Messina)
12. You Don't Mess Around With Jim (originally performed by Jim Croce)
13. We're An American Band (originally performed by Grand Funk Railroad)

TRACKS 1-8: produced by Don Was - 2007 (new recordings)
TRACK 9: produced by Rick Rubin, Less Than Zero soundtrack - 1987
TRACK 10: produced by Thom Panunzio, Hollyweird - 2002
TRACK 11: produced by Tom Werman, Open Up and Say ... Ahh! - 1988
TRACK 12: produced by Ric Browdie - 1987; bonus track on Look What The Cat Dragged In reissue (2006)
TRACK 13: produced by Don Was, The Best Of Poison: 20 Years Of Rock - 2006

◊ POISON + RATT TO TOUR

We mentioned that this would take place back in January when the band posted on their MySpace page asking for fans input on what songs they should consider covering. More Poison News Soon!

 

Live In Dublin CDx2/DVD/Blu-Ray

Bruce Springsteen With The Sessions Band - Press Release

Bruce Springsteen With The Sessions Band Live In Dublin To Be Released On June 5

Bruce Springsteen With The Sessions Band Live in Dublin will be available on-line and in stores on June 5. The release will consist of: a concert DVD, Blu-ray Disc, and separate two-CD set. The songs and videos are drawn from the band's performances in Dublin, Ireland at The Point in November of 2006.

Songs include fan favorites from 'The Seeger Sessions,' radical interpretations from the Springsteen songbook and rare songs appearing for the first time on any Springsteen release.

Pre-order details coming soon.

 

Lion's Share Signs With....

AFM Records - Press Release

After four successful albums and several tours with bands like MANOWAR, DIO, MOTÖRHEAD, SAXON, U.D.O., ICED EARTH and NEVERMORE, Swedish heavy metal masters LION'S SHARE are back with their long-awaited comeback masterpiece, "Emotional Coma", due out on June 15 in Europe through AFM Records. The band features guitar player and founding member Lars Chriss, along with vocalist Patrik Johansson (ASTRAL DOORS, WUTHERING HEIGHTS), bass player Sampo Axelsson (GLENN HUGHES) and well-known session drummer Richard Evensand (CHIMAIRA, SOILWORK, THERION).

Commented Chriss: "We are extremely proud and honored to be a part of such a great label as AFM Records. AFM is home to many great bands and we couldn't be more excited to be a part of that roster. It feels great to work with a label staff that understands our music and goals. We are looking forward to a long and successful cooperation."

According to a press release, "Emotional Coma" is "the heaviest and most powerful LION'S SHARE record to date" and it features guest appearances by Bruce Kulick (KISS), Glen Drover (MEGADETH) and Mats Levén (THERION, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN).

Commented Markus Wosgien, A&R of AFM Records: "The new record is heavy metal at its finest. It shows the band from another side, less progressive, more straight and metal. If you are into the old gods like SAXON, JUDAS PRIEST or ACCEPT — you will love this unique and high-class record, which is a new beginning in the history of this amazing band."

"Emotional Coma" track listing:

01. Cult of Denial
02. The Arsonist
03. Emotional Coma (feat. Glen Drover)
04. Clones of Fate
05. The Edge of the Razor (feat. Bruce Kulick)
06. Toxication Rave
07. Trafficking
08. Bloodstained Soil
09. Soultaker
10. Hatred's My Fuel
11. Sorcerers (ANGEL WITCH cover)
12. Ring of Stupidity (bonus track for Japan and digipak)

www.lionsshare.org / www.myspace.com/lionsshare / www.afm-records.de

 

Velvet Revolver Fan Club

Exclusives For VR Fans - MySpace Bulletin/Email

Prepare yourself for the return of VELVET REVOLVER! Slash, Duff, Matt, Scott and Dave are ready to emerge from the studio with their latest barrage of hits, all tightly packed into their second full-length album, Libertad!

The Velvet Revolver tour launches on April 10th, rocketing through South America, and the band hits U.S. soil on May 4th, when they begin an 11-city run. First stop, House of Blues on the Sunset Strip in L.A.! In June, Velvet Revolver dives into Europe, covering 17 dates, including stops in Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands and Spain.

Don't miss out on any of the mayhem! Join THE VELVET REVOLVER FAN CLUB, the official VR online fan service so you can get closer to Velvet Revolver, Libertad, and the new tour! Your membership gives you access to the most exciting VR treats:

The Velvet Revolver Fan Club
◊ Annual membership: $45 U.S. / $50 international
◊ Pre-sale ticket access *
◊ Pre-sale VIP ticket access *
◊ $25 coupon for use in the official VR online store
◊ Frequent promotional discounts in the official VR online store
◊ Mobile downloads
◊ One custom 8” x 10” VR Fan Photo
◊ Members-only VR forum

* NOTE: 4 ticket limit per member

◊ To Join The VR Fan Club Click Here / Starts Today @ 10:00am

Rockline Updates

New MySpace & Show Reminders

Just a quick reminder that tonight on Rockline, Bob and crew will have a special encore presentation of Boston's 1999 Rockline Appearance in memory of Brad Delp. Online streams are available by visiting Rockline's Official Website. Simply click on one of the "Listen Live" links listed for Wednesday. Once on the station of your choice, look for their "Live Stream" link so that you can listen in.

4/4 - A special Encore of Boston in Memory of Brad Delp.
4/9 - Hell Yeah! will be joining us to Premiere their new CD.
4/11 - Heaven & Hell will be in the studio. Legends!
4/16 - Shadows Fall checks in.
4/23 - Tom Morello joins us with his new solo project "The Nightwatchman"
4/25 - Lindsey Buckingham will be in the studio to perform live!
4/30 - Bullet For My Valentine checks in from the road.

Rockline has also moved their MySpace to a new address, they can now be found at: www.myspace.com/rocklineradio.

For additional guest information visit: www.rocklineradio.com

Ten Years After Winterland - San Francisco CA. 04/30/1971

Wolfgang's Vault

Almost two years after the Woodstock appearance that effectively put them on the map, Ten Years After headlined an old ice skating rink called Winterland. Always a favorite of Bill Graham, Alvin Lee and his British quartet showcased a set of blues-rock that was progressively headed in a more mainstream direction. This is most evident on their commercial success, A Space In Time, which was released the same year as this show and contained the ubiquitous hit single, "I'd Love To Change The World."

You can listen to this piece of musical history by visiting: concerts.wolfgangsvault.com

Upcoming Chat

Dave Meniketti And Y&T

Y&T will hold their 3rd Live Chat in "Real Time" on Thursday April 19th at 8:00Pm California Time. Band members Dave, Phil, John and Mike will all be there to answer your questions and have fun doing it. For additional details visit Y&T's Discussion Forums, find the General Category "Y&T/Meniketti Discussion". The actual link to the live chat will be posted in a sticky post on the actual day of the chat event.   www.YandTRocks.com   /   www.Meniketti.com

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Furyon will be on Juice FM tonight at 9:00pm. If you would like to listen you can do so by going to www.juicebrighton.com click on "Listen Live."

Kevin Cronin - Promoman Newsletter Week 3

    REO's Radio Interviews:
    APRIL 4 7:00am BRANDMEIER CHICAGO
    APRIL 4 8:00am MANCOW CHICAGO
    APRIL 4 9:30am ERIC & KATHY CHICAGO
    APRIL 5 8:00am WKLH MILWAUKEE
    APRIL 5 9:30am WKBW MILWAUKEE

Bon Jovi to Perform at Frontier Days

Ex-Spice Girl Gives Birth to Daughter

Phobia Collector's Edition

Breaking Benjamin - Press Release / Island Additions
April.3rd.2007 - Tuesday

Fresh off the success of Phobia, Breaking Benjamin and Hollywood Records are taking fan requests to heart and are set to release Phobia -- Collector's Edition on April 17, 2007. Phobia -- Collector's Edition contains all the tracks from the standard CD, with a premium bonus: the band's first-ever concert DVD featuring a live, hour-plus-long concert filmed in front of a sold-out hometown crowd. In addition, the set contains an acoustic version of the hit single "The Diary of Jane." All this content will be packaged in a new foil slip-case featuring kaleidoscopic, 3-D album art.

In February of 2006, in the midst of a cross-country trek, Breaking Benjamin performed in front of a fanatical audience at Stabler Arena in Bethlehem. The band's triumphant return to their home state of Pennsylvania was captured on film both for an hour-long concert event for HDnet TV and the Phobia -- Collector's Edition DVD. The alt-rockers performed songs from their platinum album We Are Not Alone, in addition to their recent certified-gold release Phobia and their debut album Saturate.

Breaking Benjamin's third CD Phobia, released August 8, 2006, debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. The CD has since spawned two hit singles which propelled the album to certified gold status. The album's debut single "The Diary of Jane" was a Top Five smash at three formats -- Alternative, Active Rock and Rock. Their second single, the intense "Breath," is currently the #1 at the Active Rock and #5 at Modern Rock. "Breath" is currently in play at over 100 US radio stations with an audience of over 14 million.

Billboard states, "['Breath'] trades off the harder slam of 'Jane' for a solid midtempo pace that peaks with another of the band's climatic choruses, which are always tight and catchy. Fans have already pushed Phobia to gold, so we predict this rocker will keep fueling the drive to a platinum finish."

The band will bring "Breath," "The Diary of Jane" and other hits to the live stage when they begin an eight week summer tour of the U.S. with Three Days Grace on May 11th.
www.HollywoodRecords.com
www.shallowbay.com

If you are looking to pick up this disc then the band has an extended bonus for you. Head on over to the band's official MySpace Blog and you can download a $4.00 off coupon that can be used when you purchase their upcoming Phobia Collector's Edition at any Best Buy store. Also you can watch a video from the upcoming DVD which is included in the set. blog.myspace.com/breakingbenjamin

 

EMI Music Launches DRM-free Downloads

Not Free Music, Copy Protection Has Been Removed - Press Release

London, 2 April 2007 -- EMI Music today announced that it is launching new premium downloads for retail on a global basis, making all of its digital repertoire available at a much higher sound quality than existing downloads and free of digital rights management (DRM) restrictions.

The new higher quality DRM-free music will complement EMI's existing range of standard DRM-protected downloads already available. From today, EMI's retailers will be offered downloads of tracks and albums in the DRM-free audio format of their choice in a variety of bit rates up to CD quality. EMI is releasing the premium downloads in response to consumer demand for high fidelity digital music for use on home music systems, mobile phones and digital music players. EMI's new DRM-free products will enable full interoperability of digital music across all devices and platforms.

Eric Nicoli, CEO of EMI Group, said, "Our goal is to give consumers the best possible digital music experience. By providing DRM-free downloads, we aim to address the lack of interoperability which is frustrating for many music fans. We believe that offering consumers the opportunity to buy higher quality tracks and listen to them on the device or platform of their choice will boost sales of digital music.

"Apple have been a true pioneer in digital music, and we are delighted that they share our vision of an interoperable market that provides consumers with greater choice, quality, convenience and value for money."

"Selling digital music DRM-free is the right step forward for the music industry," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "EMI has been a great partner for iTunes and is once again leading the industry as the first major music company to offer its entire digital catalogue DRM-free."

Apple's iTunes Store (www.itunes.com) is the first online music store to receive EMI's new premium downloads. Apple has announced that iTunes will make individual AAC format tracks available from EMI artists at twice the sound quality of existing downloads, with their DRM removed, at a price of $1.29/€1.29/£0.99. iTunes will continue to offer consumers the ability to pay $0.99/€0.99/£0.79 for standard sound quality tracks with DRM still applied. Complete albums from EMI Music artists purchased on the iTunes Store will automatically be sold at the higher sound quality and DRM-free, with no change in the price. Consumers who have already purchased standard tracks or albums with DRM will be able to upgrade their digital music for $0.30/€0.30/£0.20 per track. All EMI music videos will also be available on the iTunes Store DRM-free with no change in price.

EMI is introducing a new wholesale price for premium single track downloads, while maintaining the existing wholesale price for complete albums. EMI expects that consumers will be able to purchase higher quality DRM-free downloads from a variety of digital music stores within the coming weeks, with each retailer choosing whether to sell downloads in AAC, WMA, MP3 or other unprotected formats of their choice. Music fans will be able to purchase higher quality DRM-free digital music for personal use, and listen to it on a wide range of digital music players and music-enabled phones.

EMI's move follows a series of experiments it conducted recently. Norah Jones's "Thinking About You", Relient K's "Must've Done Something Right", and Lily Allen's "Littlest Things" were all made available for sale in the MP3 format in trials held at the end of last year.

EMI Music will continue to employ DRM as appropriate to enable innovative digital models such as subscription services (where users pay a monthly fee for unlimited access to music), super-distribution (allowing fans to share music with their friends) and time-limited downloads (such as those offered by ad-supported services).

Nicoli added: "Protecting the intellectual property of EMI and our artists is as important as ever, and we will continue to work to fight piracy in all its forms and to educate consumers. We believe that fans will be excited by the flexibility that DRM-free formats provide, and will see this as an incentive to purchase more of our artists' music."

Click here to listen to the audio webcast of the announcement.

The Wait Is Almost Over

Fuel - Email/Newsletter

Get ready to hear new Fuel music this week! Visit www.fuelweb.com on Friday, April 6th at noon PT to be the first to hear a new track!

Fuel will be playing the following shows, stay tuned for more dates to be posted via their official website as they're announced.

May 4 - Jackson, MS - Jackson Coliseum Festival Grounds (with Soul Asylum, Buck Cherry, Papa Roach, Collective Soul)

May 5 - Birmingham, AL - Schaeffer Eye Center Crawfish Boil (with Barenaked Ladies, Papa Roach, Soul Asylum, Collective Soul)

May 6 - Ft. Walton Beach, FL - The Swamp (With Smile Empty Soul, Exies)

May 11 - Nashville, TN - Nashville Riverfront Park (with Soul Asylum, Cheap Trick, Hinder)

May 12 - Rockford, IL - Rockford MetroCentre (with Hinder)

May 13 - Indianola, IA - Indianola National Balloon Launch Field (with Buckcherry, Saliva, Smile Empty Soul, Operator)

July 20 - Cadott, WI - Cippewa Valley Music Festival


For all the latest on Fuel, visit: www.fuelweb.com

On The Radio

There For Tomorrow

Today on Knight Cast Radio (College Station) at 2:30, There For Tomorrow will be conducting an interview! They will be talking about their new EP, but that's not all. They will also perform a live acoustic tune. For those interested in listening in can do so by clicking on the website link below.

Stream Site: www.knightcast.org
Band Site: www.therefortomorrow.com

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Roger Daltrey Gives Cancer Survivor The Stage

Nikki Sixx and Mick Mars Autographed American Made Outlaw Cowboy Hat

SonyBMG deletes demo CDs, logs onto blogs

'Knight Rider' Trans Am up for sale

New Mini Reviews

April.2nd.2007 - Monday

         

2 new Mini Reviews are up for your reading pleasure. Madhouse & Martina McBride's latest releases. Madhouse released their album "Everything Kills" back in February and Martina's new disc will be out tomorrow in stores. More reviews coming this week! The mini reviews page will be changed to the new website design this week as well, but for now you can read these reviews here.

 

"FLY2FR33DOM" - New Album

Kevin Chalfant - MySpace Info.

Kevin Chalfant (The Storm, Two Fires) updated fans yesterday via his MySpace page. This update is about his upcoming album which has finally been given a name. (His post below)

In the next two weeks, Clique Records is releasing a brand new Kevin Chalfant CD entitled "FLY2FR33DOM". We are in the mixing stages at this point, but we have decided to offer advanced autographed copies and/or bundle a tour package together as well, stay tuned for all of the details. We plan to host two record release parties and you can secure your tickets right here.

As soon as all of the legal paperwork is finalized, we will be releasing sound bytes on this myspace.com site, as well as www.cliquerecords.com, www.kevinchalfant.com & www.MusicISP.com

Thanks for your patience and continued encouragement.
2007 is going to be a year to remember.

You friend,
Kevin Chalfant

Tour And Album (Libertad)

Velvet Revolver - www.velvetrevolver.com & Email

We mad mention of Velvet's upcoming album many times over the past 6 months. From the changes in the producers seat to delays and even conflict. After it all, fans have finally been given word that a tour and new disc are in fact coming very soon.

Hard rocking supergroup Velvet Revolver, consisting of former members of Guns N’ Roses along with Stone Temple Pilots‘ frontman Scott Weiland and Wasted Youth’s Dave Kushner, are putting the finishing touches on a new release, Libertad, and have been busy scheduling dates for the spring and summer in support of the album.

The band will launch their live assault with a six-date swing through South America beginning April 10 at the Pista Atletica in Santiago, Chile and wrapping up April 20 at Parque Metropolitano Simon Bolivar in Bogota, Columbia.

Next up is the 11-city U.S. leg of the tour, which kicks off May 4 at the House of Blues in West Hollywood, CA, and will make stops at a number of hot clubs and theatres around the country including San Francisco’s Warfield Theatre, Chicago’s Riviera Theatre and the 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C., before finishing off May 22 at the Nokia Theatre Times Square in New York.

In June, the band will head to Europe for 17 dates with heavy emphasis on festival appearances including Rock Im Park and Rock Am Ring in Germany, Sweden’s Hultsfred Festival, Fields Of Rock in the Netherlands and Monsters Of Rock in Spain.

Libertad, scheduled for release in June, is the follow-up to VR’s Grammy winning 2004 debut, Contraband. The band originally planned to record the album with producer Rick Rubin, but when that fell through, frontman Scott Weiland tapped Brendan O’Brien and the band began working on the album last December.

Guitar Tabs Anyone?

Van Halen - Press Release

Alfred is pleased to release The Ultimate Song Pages: Van Halen.

Van Halen is one of the biggest rock bands to emerge in the last 30 years. The band dominated the Billboard Rock charts in the 1980s and early ‘90s, with hit singles like “Jump,” “Panama,” “Hot For Teacher,” “Dreams,” “Why Can’t This Be Love,” and “Right Now.” On March 12, 2007, Van Halen was inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

This amazing 1200-page collection features the complete guitar TAB for every single Van Halen album, including smash hit records like Van Halen, 1984, and 5150! Songs include “Runnin’ With The Devil,” “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love,” “Mean Streets,” “Jump,” “Panama,” “Hot For Teacher,” “Why Can’t This Be Love,” “Dreams,” “Best Of Both Worlds,” “Right Now,” and many, many more! This is a must-have for every true Van Halen fan.

About Alfred Publishing
Since its inception in 1922, Alfred Publishing remains dedicated to helping people experience the joy of making music. With hundreds of expert authors and composers backed by a talented staff in seven offices worldwide, Alfred publishes educational, reference, pop, and performance pieces for teachers, students, hobbyists and performers spanning every musical instrument, style, and difficulty level.

Alfred currently has over 45,000 active print, DVD, software, general MIDI, audio CD and enhanced CD titles in circulation throughout the world. Titles represent a full range of musical tastes and styles, including the works of George and Ira Gershwin, Duke Ellington, Burt Bacharach, Henry Mancini, Led Zeppelin, the Eagles, Madonna, Green Day, and hundreds more. In addition to its own titles, Alfred distributes works from the National Guitar Workshop, the Dover Music catalog, and Faber Music.

For more information about Alfred Publishing, please visit www.alfred.com.

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Noll works with Bon Jovi star

Apple/EMI in deal, but Beatles not included-source

More Reunions for Ronnie Wood to consider

Marie Osmond, Husband Getting Divorced

Ez Gomer / Tony Carey "Wake The Dead" On New LNJ CD

Mar.31st.2007 - Saturday - Press Release

Liberty N' Justice's new CD, "Independence Day" is nearing completion and at this time we are
unveiling two new singers. Jet Circus's Ez Gomer and Rainbow's Tony Carey join forces on the track
"Wake the Dead". The track was recorded at Hypersonic Studios (Gothenburg,Sweden) and features
Gomer on co-lead vocals and bass ad well as Carey on co-lead vocals and keyboards. This makes Gomer's
second appearance on a LNJ CD as he provided the thundering lead track ("Kings Of Hollywood')
on LNJ's last album "Soundtrack Of a Soul'.

"Independence Day" with three tracks still unannounced, also will features vocals by Jani Lane, Jack Russell (Great White), John Corabi (x-Motley Crue/Ratt/Union), Ted Poley (Danger Danger), Jamie St. James (Warrant/ Black N' Blue), Kelly Keeling (Baton Rouge/ TSO), Jamie Rowe (Guardian), Shawn Pelata (Line Of Fire), David Raymond Reeves (Neon Cross),& Mark and Shannon Hovland (Hovland). With special guest musicians Jerry Dixon (Warrant), Kevin Chalfant, Tommy Denander, Don Webster (Neon Cross), Charlie Calv, Nikki Dimage(Line Of Fire) and a host of others.....

Check out the new track at www.myspace.com/libertynjustice2 and let them know what you think
by going to their website www.libertynjustice.net.

 

Sweet Sacrifice Video

Evanescence - Wind-Up Newsletter

Evanescence's new single "Sweet Sacrifice" is at radio now! Listen to it on your favorite rock and alternative stations. Call in your requests to hear more of Evanescence on air!

The new video for "Sweet Sacrifice" will premiere Thursday, April 5 on Yahoo! Music.

In touring news, Evanescence will join KORN on the road this summer as co-headliner on this year's Family Values tour. Read more about the announcement at Evanescence.com.

Evanescence is now on tour with Finger Eleven and Chevelle! Catch them coming to a city near you.

Evanescence.com
www.myspace.com/Evanescence

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Hilary Duff - Webisodes - Yahoo.com

Eric Clapton to Hold Crossroads Benefit

Avril Lavigne "Artist Of The Month" April

Mar.30th.2007 - Friday - Press Release

Music Choice, the leading, multi-platform music network that reaches millions of music fans through their TVs, online, and cell phones, today announced that Avril Lavigne, the Grammy-nominated, Juno Award-winning singer/songwriter will be the featured ‘Artist of the Month’ in April on Music Choice On Demand, the No. 1 video-on-demand music service in the country. The Artist of the Month content includes a career-spanning collection of of Avril’s music videos to watch on demand, including “Girlfriend,” from her new album on RCA Records, “The Best Damn Thing,” hitting stores on April 17th. A mix of Original programs, along with compelling content that includes a three-part series on the making of Avril’s “Girlfriend” video, can also be viewed whenever – and however often – viewers would like throughout April.

Avril Lavigne: Make5Wishes – Avril reaches out to her fans through a Manga, a Japanese form of an animated cartoon strip. A trailer and the first episode of the Manga entitled “Make5Wishes” will be available for viewing on Music Choice On Demand throughout the month of April. The animinated story follows a lonely, unpopular teenage girl named Hana as she stumbles across a website, www.make5wishes.com, that asks her to make 5 wishes. She meets Avril Lavigne and together they both help to conquer Hana's personal demons once her wishes start to go bad. Avril responds to this as "I know that many of my fans read Manga, and I’m really excited to be involved in creating stories that I know they will enjoy.” For more details, go to www.make5wishes.com

"The Music Choice Artist of the Month program presents music fans with an opportunity to experience Avril Lavigne's music and to get to know the artist through unique programs," says Terry McBride, Founder & CEO of Nettwerk Productions. "We enjoyed working with Music Choice to develop a diverse promotional program for their video-on-demand service, showcasing the multiple talents of Avril Lavigne."

“Music Choice is excited to feature Avril, one of today’s most prolific pop singer/songwriters, and a top performing artist on our video-on-demand service, on our Artist of the Month program in April,” says Justin Prager, Director of Rock and Pop Programming for Music Choice. “Avril offers a true alternative to mainstream pop music; her music has matured with each of her hit albums. Music Choice is looking forward to adding to the Avril Lavigne fan base by offering compelling music content featuring Avril to the millions of music fans across the country with access to our network’s highly-acclaimed video-on-demand music service.” www.musicchoice.com/what_we_are/aom.html

 

Building 429 - Iris To Iris

New Studio Album

“If ‘Glory Defined’ had an entire album recorded to compliment the quality of that song, it would be this album.

“Iris To Iris, the new Building 429 album is not one good song or two good songs, but 11 great compositions that make a thoroughly satisfying listening experience. These guys have stepped up to the plate with a wonderful record and a major shift towards accessibility and ministry in the direction of their music.

“It is my hope and belief that this album, Iris To Iris, will put Building 429 in the consciousness of a much broader audience, primarily because of the quality of the songs, and accessibility of the music. I am not trying to hype this, I just believe in these guys and this project. It has blessed me, and I hope it blesses you.” -- Brown Bannister, Producer

Dove award-winning Building 429 returns with a brand new album full of their familiar style of introspective, worshipful lyrics and anthemic pop/rock songs that made “Glory Defined” a #1 hit. New songs born out of intimate times of prayer, like “You Carried Me,” “Majesty” and “Power Of Your Name,” are bound to find a place in modern worship settings as well as the hearts of Building 429 fans everywhere.

Release: May 1st, 2007
 

Y&T To Release 1st Ever Live DVD

Newsletter Update

The first-ever Y&T Live DVD will be rolled out to Germany on June 6th, then the rest of the world will see it by August. Keep an eye on the web site DISCUSSION FORUM and MERCHANDISE page for more information as we receive it.

We've just been informed that there might be a limited number of early releases available to those attending the May European shows!

For Additional News: www.meniketti.com

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Hollywood Roses - Featuring Tracii Guns, Gilby Clarke & Others (Audio Samples)

Avril Lavigne - Walmart Soundcheck Coming Soon

New RATT Website Coming Soon

Ask Mike Tramp - Answers Revealed (MySpace)

Downloadable Interviews (MP3's) - Jeff Labar & Jack Blades

Annihilator - New Sample

Mar.29th.2007 - Thursday - Press Release

Another audio sample from ANNIHILATOR's forthcoming album, "Metal", has been released. The song “Detonation” featuring guitar shredder Jacob Lynam from Lynam can be heard on Lynam’s official Myspace page www.myspace.com/lynam.

"Metal" will be released April 11 in Japan (King Records), April 12 in Australia/New Zealand (World Riot Distributors), April 13 in Germany (SPV Records) and April 16 in the rest of Europe (SPV Records).

"Metal"'s ten new tracks were recorded by Jeff Waters (guitar, bass and lead vocals on one song), drum legend Mike Mangini and Dave Padden (longtime vocalist and touring guitarist/vocalist). "Metal" features sensational performances by some of metal's finest players and ANNIHILATOR's good friends, like Alexi Laiho (CHILDREN OF BODOM), Danko Jones, Michael Amott and Angela Gossow (ARCH ENEMY), Corey Beaulieu (TRIVIUM), William Adler (LAMB OF GOD), Jeff Loomis, Jesper Strömblad(IN FLAMES), Steve "Lips" Kudlow, Anders Björler (THE HAUNTED), Jacob Lynam (LYNAM) and more.

 

Sammy Hagar/Linda Perry/Narada Michael Walden To Be Honored

Press Release

Rock veteran and GRAMMY® winner Sammy Hagar, GRAMMY-nominated songwriter/producer Linda Perry and three-time GRAMMY winner Narada Michael Walden have been named as recipients of The Recording Academy Honors™ 2007, it was announced today by the San Francisco Chapter. The Recording Academy Honors was established to celebrate outstanding individuals whose work embodies excellence and integrity and who have improved the environment for the creative community. The gala event, which will attract recording artists, key entertainment executives and community leaders, will be held Sunday, April 29, at 6 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom of the historic Westin St. Francis in San Francisco's Union Square. This annual San Francisco gala supports the Chapter's ongoing advocacy, education and professional development programs.

The evening will begin with a cocktail hour and silent auction followed by dinner and the tribute presentations with celebrity presenters and performers. Tickets for The Recording Academy Honors gala are $100 for Academy members and $150 for non-members and are available by calling the San Francisco Chapter office at 415.749.0779.

About The Honorees:

Sammy Hagar

"The reason I got into this wasn't to be a rock star or be a billionaire, it was just to play music," Sammy Hagar recalled to Rolling Stone in 2000. That unpretentious spirit has carried Hagar through a colorful three-decade recording career that has established him as one of America's most beloved hard rockers. From his trailblazing early work with Montrose to his prolific and popular solo career to his massively successful time with Van Halen, and currently as front man for his band Sammy Hagar And The Wabos, the veteran singer/guitarist has continued to make melodic, hard-charging rock that's long on punch and personality. Hagar led Van Halen to four No. 1 albums, including a GRAMMY Award for Best Hard Rock Performance With Vocal in 1991. Hagar's numerous hits, platinum-records, and memorable songs include "I Can't Drive 55," and "Mas Tequila," a song that refers to his own brand of tequila, Cabo Wabo. In 2007, the Red Rocker was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside his fellow Van Halen band members, and will continue to perform, record and build his business.

Linda Perry

Two-time GRAMMY-nominated songwriter/producer Linda Perry is known for "bringing the artist out of the pop vocalist" and helping build the success of singers such as Christina Aguilera, P!nk and Gwen Stefani. Perry's songwriting and production on P!nk's second album, the 10 million-plus selling double GRAMMY-nominated M!ssundaztood, made the industry take notice. The songs she penned and produced on Christina Aguilera's Stripped included the GRAMMY Award-winning song "Beautiful" (Best Female Vocal Performance). In 2006, Perry co-wrote and produced nine songs for Aguilera's GRAMMY Award-winning Back To Basics album. She formed Custard Records and signed British artist James Blunt to her label, producing the song "No Bravery" on the five-time GRAMMY-nominated album Back To Bedlam. Perry began her career in San Francisco as a singer/songwriter with former Interscope Recording artists 4 Non Blondes. Their early 90's mega-hit "What's Up," catapulted the band to international success and helped their album, Bigger, Better, Faster, More!, sell 7 million copies worldwide. Perry's early career involved touring with the Who, Aerosmith, Prince, Neil Young, and Pearl Jam. Her career also involves singing a duet with Roger Daltry at Carnegie Hall as well a duet with Grace Slick on her solo record for Interscope, In Flight. She is currently in the studio with Alicia Keys working on material for her new record, and continues to develop artists on Custard Records as well as write songs and produce.

Narada Michael Walden

Three-time GRAMMY Award winner Narada Michael Walden is a gifted songwriter, drummer, vocalist and producer who has worked with artists as diverse as Aretha Franklin and Wynonna Judd, Stevie Wonder and Tom Jones, the Temptations and Jeff Beck. Walden has been sought out by scores of artists as a creative catalyst, and he created the breakthrough hits for superstars Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. He has earned equal acclaim as a recording and performing artist in his own right, beginning with his stint as part of the pioneering Mahavishnu Orchestra in the early '70s, through 11 acclaimed solo albums and numerous appearances at the top of the pop and R&B charts. He has done groundbreaking soundtrack work on such smash films as The Bodyguard and Stuart Little to the Emmy®-winning song "One Moment In Time" — the theme to the 1988 Olympic Games. Walden owns Marin County-based Tarpan Studios and recently launched the label Tarpan Records. He continues to perform, produce, compose, and develop new talent, releasing the debut album from acclaimed new vocalist Naomi Striemer, whose debut single "Cars" features special guest Carlos Santana. Walden is simultaneously hard at work on an eagerly awaited new solo album, highlighting a stellar lineup of friends and fellow musicians including Chris Botti, Clarence Clemons, Sting and many others.

Upcoming "Off The Record" Guests

With Joe Benson

Sunday (April 1st) will feature the music (including live acoustic performances!) of Shaw Blades as well as Joe's brand new conversation with Tommy Shaw and Jack Blades.

Sunday (April 8th) will feature the music of and brand new conversation with John Mellencamp.

Sunday (April 15th) will feature the music of The Rolling Stones as well as Joe's brand new conversation with Bill Wyman.

Sunday (April 22nd) will feature the music of REO Speedwagon as well as Joe's brand new conversation with singer Kevin Cronin.

Sunday (April 29th) will feature the music of and conversation with Stevie Nicks.

Online Stream Information Can Be Found: www.unclejoe.com/xotr.html

L.A. Guns - Adam Hamilton's Departure

News Source: www.myspace.com/lagunsnet

Dear friends it is with enormous regret we announce the departure of our good friend Adam Hamilton. Adam has been offered a once in a lifetime opportunity to pursue his dreams as a producer. From this point on he will become a full time studio rat chained to a recording console but I suspect he will still wear a bit of eyeliner. Adam we wish you well mate, you have stuck with us through very good and a few extraordinary bad times, you will always be a brother and we all thank you for the amazing music you have contributed, Thank you for your commitment to the band and the fans, its been nothing but pleasure touring the world with you, Your sharp sense of humor that got us thru some very sketchy times will be missed. You can show off all those backstage laminates with pride in your studio and know that you are the very essence of rock and roll and a lifetime behind a mixing board will never take that away from you.

We all eagerly look forward to the sonic delights you are soon to create and give you and your family our blessings and want you to know you will always be a part of our LAGuns family.

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Next week Wednesday (April 4th) Rockline will have a special re-airing of the 1999 episode featuring Brad Delp.

REM back free internet campaign

Pumpkins pick Paris for first reunion show

New Design!

Mar.28th.2007 - Wednesday

It has been a long road for this new website design. Our inspiration for change came soon after our "Best Of '06 Awards" were unveiled. Many of you wrote in saying you liked how that website section was designed. That put our brains into overdrive as we set out looking for a brand new website design. After searching for what seemed like forever, we came across this design by Matthew McGee and ran with it. After some tweaking and additional graphics, work began on our new vision. Unfortunately we had a major mishap a few weeks ago as one of our main computers decided to "retire" so to speak. But sometimes a negative can be turned around to a positive. Soon after our meltdown we grabbed our new inspiration and finished what you see on the screen now. Of course some sections are not updated and this is because we've chosen to move forward. All sections that are from 2006 and past will not be updated to this new website look and feel. All 2007 sections such as interviews & reviews will be updated as well as any main toolbar page.

As you can see the sidebar on the right hand side of the screen contains a few new items but also some that are crossed out. The crossed out sections are closed because we are still adding items to them. The new sections included are "Upcoming Releases" & "Touring Information." Upcoming Releases will contain a list of discs and their release dates so that way you do not have to go through our past news section looking for release dates. Currently the "Upcoming Releases" section has very little, that will change in the coming weeks. Touring Information will contain a list of bands that are our tour, weather it is summer/fall/winter/etc. Band names and website links will be provided so that it is easier to find when and where you can listen to live music.

Items that still need to be edited or added: Media Page will host our downloadable magazine as well as our podcast/radio show. This section will be closed until we are satisfied with the upcoming downloads. The Articles section should be online by the end of the week and will contain a few of the articles we've posted in the past, more will be added soon enough. The main Reviews page will be changed over to this new website design in another week.

The addition of "History Island" will be another lengthy journey but our goal is to have it opened by mid-summer. It will feature a few write-ups about pieces in world history that many may not know about or have chosen to forget for some reason.

As you can see there are no Ad's on the website once again. I want to make this clear because some have written in asking when we will put ad's on the website like all the other music sites out there. First off any other site that chooses to put ad's on their site is their own personal choice and thus we will not rip anyone for doing that. Secondly we will not put ad's on this website as we find them tacky and unprofessional. The only thing that you could consider an Ad would be our link to the Firefox 2 browser. But that is a product we believe in and we make no money on that link.

As always we appreciate everyone who has come along on this journey with us. Thanks to all of you who continue to believe in what we do. There is a way to make music better and together we can make changes!

Tony & Jere
WE ARE MUSIC!

Regular Updates Will Return Tomorrow, Brand New Interview Below!

New Interview

Keaton Simons

At age 26 Keaton Simons has already accomplished many musical feats. He's been on a music soundtrack, had his music used on TV Shows and has appeared on several late night programs. Some dare to dream and ask why? Keaton has made his dreams a reality by asking "Why Not?" KS blends Pop, Rock and Blues all on his latest EP "Blink." We were recently given the opportunity to talk with Keaton about his influences, working with The Matrix and his current tour with Josh Kelley. Keaton is another rising star in the world of music that continues to grow and inspire audiences of all ages.

            › Read Our Interview with Keaton Simons            › Artist Website: www.keatonsimons.com

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