New Album Reviews

June.29th.2007 - Friday

Full Album Reviews
       
Keith Varon - Love Is A Hero             Cinder Road - SuperHuman   
Released In 2006      Released In 2007

The Essential Paul Simon

Press Release

On June 26, "The Essential Paul Simon," a two disc, 36 song set spanning Simon's extraordinary four-decade career, will be released by Warner Bros Records. The release stands as the single best collection of Simon's greatest songs, beginning with "Mother And Child Reunion" from his groundbreaking debut. The set includes highlights from each of Simon's albums, up to the collection's closer "Wartime Prayers," from the acclaimed 2006 album 'Surprise.'

Simon was recently honored as the first recipient of the Library of Congress' Gershwin Prize for Popular Song at an all-star gala concert held at Washington, DC's Warner Theatre. "Few songwriters have had a broader influence or contributed more to song genres than Paul Simon." said Librarian of Congress James Billington, citing "the depth, range and sheer beauty of his music, as well as its ability to bridge peoples and cultures." The gala concert will be broadcast nationally on PBS June 27, the day after release of 'The Essential Paul Simon.'

During his distinguished career Paul Simon has been the recipient of many honors and awards including 12 Grammy Awards, three of which were albums of the year. He is an inductee to The Songwriters Hall of Fame and is in the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame both as a member of Simon and Garfunkel and as a solo artist. His song "Mrs. Robinson" from the motion picture "The Graduate" was named in the top ten of The American Film Institute's 100 Years 100 Songs. He was a recipient of The Kennedy Center Honors in 2003, and his landmark 'Graceland' album was recently added to the National Archives.

In addition to the 2-CD set, a Deluxe Edition containing both CDs as well as a bonus DVD will be released concurrently. Together for the first time in one place, the Deluxe Editions DVD content features 6 music videos, Saturday Night Live performances and appearances, and an appearance on the Dick Cavett Show. The Saturday Night Live footage includes the classic duet with George Harrison on "Homeward Bound," a performance of "Loves Me Like a Rock" from the second SNL episode ever, and Paul's appearance in a comedy sketch with the lounge singing Sweeny Sisters.

'The Essential Paul Simon' Track Listing:

CD Disc One:

1. Mother And Child Reunion
2. Loves Me Like A Rock
3. Me And Julio Down By The School Yard
4. Duncan
5. Kodachrome®
("Kodachrome®" is a registered trademark for colored film.)
6. 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover
7. Slip Slidin' Away
8. Gone At Last with Phoebe Snow and The Jessy Dixon Singers
9. Something So Right
10. Late In The Evening
11. Hearts And Bones
12. Take Me To The Mardi Gras
13. That Was Your Mother
14. American Tune
15. Peace Like A River
16. Stranded In A Limousine
17. Train In The Distance
18. The Late Great Johnny Ace
19. Still Crazy After All These Years

CD Disc Two

1. Graceland
2. Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes
3. The Boy In The Bubble
4. You Can Call Me Al
5. Under African Skies
6. The Obvious Child
7. Born At The Right Time
8. The Cool, Cool River
9. Spirit Voices
10. Adios Hermanos
11. Born In Puerto Rico
12. Quality
13. Darling Lorraine
14. Hurricane Eye
15. Father And Daughter
16. Outrageous
17. Wartime Prayers

DVD CONTENT

MUSIC VIDEOS

"Me And Julio Down By The School Yard" (with Mickey Mantle)
"You Can Call Me Al" (with Chevy Chase)
"Boy In The Bubble"
"Diamonds On The Sole Of Her Shoes"
"The Obvious Child"
"Father And Daughter"

TV APPEARANCES

The Dick Cavett Show
-"Mrs. Robinson" (1970) - interview/performance
Saturday Night Live
-"Loves Me Like A Rock" (1975) - performance
-"Sweeney Sisters" (1987) - comedy sketch
-"Homeward Bound" (with George Harrison) (1976) - performance

For additional details visit: myspace.com/paulsimon

Rightfully Accused - Ready Or Not... w/Audio Samples

Band Bio / Combined

You can now purchase RA's album "Ready Or Not..." via CD Baby. The disc features 8 full length rock tracks, the price is just about $13.00. Audio samples of all the songs are available along with a band bio.

Formed while the members were still in high school, Rightfully Accused set out to be the largest and loudest rock and roll show in existence and audiences agree they may be rightfully accused of doing just that. Their on-stage energy and overall performance is unique and instantly recognizable in a climate of uninspired visual performance, and Rightfully Accused always provides an explosive show. The Rightfully Accused sound might be a bit more difficult to place, yet always seems vaguely familiar. While not entirely retro, their sound and image still draw on familiar aspects of the best of rock music to push modern music to its limits. By playing an infusion of old-school rock (the guitar technique and attitude of Led Zeppelin and Guns N' Roses meets the soaring, layered vocals of Def Leppard and Skid Row with the rhythmic virtuosity of Rush and depth of Alice in Chains) blended with their own take on the modern scene, Rightfully Accused will leave your arm sore from pumping your fist in the air... and you'll love every minute of it.

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Music Related:

◊ Lifehouse - Brand New Music Video (Video Stream)
◊ Bon Jovi Recreates 'Bad Name' For Rapping Football Star
◊ Kiss Unleashing Second Volume Of 'Kissology'
◊ Vince Neil Launches Tequila
◊ Drama Accompanies New Clarkson Album
◊ The Spice Girls Reunite for World Tour
◊ Cyndi Lauper Boots Lip-Synching Britney
◊ Miley Cyrus AIM Interview

New Album Reviews

June.27th.2007 - Wednesday

Full Album Review

Kevin Chalfant - Fly 2 Freedom

Mini Review

Mandy Moore - Wild Hope

New Island Cast - Episode 5 (Mini-sode)

Island Report

It took us a while to get this episode out the door. As we mentioned before we had some technical issues and this episode was recorded 2 times. But after some editing, our 1st recording was the better edition and so we now present it to you. Episode 6 will be available as soon as possible.

The main focus of Episode 5, concert tours and a small rundown of upcoming releases.

Episode Details:
Total Size 24meg, Running Time Approx. 33min, Recorded In 96kbps.
Can Be Listened To On PSP/IPod/Windows PC, Mac, Apple Computer or other systems that support the .MP3 format.

To Download: www.garageband.com (Right Click & Save As)

◊ Festivals: Rock-Fest, Moondance Jam, Rocklahoma, Live Earth

◊ Artists: Bon Jovi, Chicago, Goo Goo Dolls, Lifehouse, Bad Side, Rightfully Accused, Naked Beggars.. and more.

◊ White Lion Not Going On Tour With Poison/Ratt: blog.myspace.com

◊ Bon Jovi Dates: www.ticketmaster.com

 

Bad Side II - Preview

Island Report

    

Bad Side II is growing ever closer to being released and it shows! The band has updated their MySpace page with a brand new 3 minute disc preview. As if that was enough to hook you in, the track "Call Me If You Want To" can be heard in full. Videos, live dates and more can be found by visiting: www.badsidemusic.com. More Bad Side II news coming soon!

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Music Related:

◊ Dimebag's Family Slams Bio
◊ New Tour Dates - Kittie
◊ Rossdale Fuels Bush Reunion Reports
◊ Kelly Clarkson - Sessions @ AOL - Video/Audio Streams
◊ Fans Camp Out for Free McCartney Show

Ratt: CD & DVD Reissues & New Album?

June.26th.2007 - Tuesday

CD And DVD Reissues Due In July

Legendary '80s hard rockers RATT return to stores with new DVD and CD releases on July 31: the first-ever DVD release from the band, "Ratt: Videos From The Cellar: The Atlantic Years", and the audio collection "Tell The World: The Very Best Of Ratt", which features the hard rockers at their studio and live performance peak and includes an unreleased track.

Both of RATT's previously released video collections will be combined and expanded for the DVD release "Ratt: Videos From The Cellar: The Atlantic Years". Featuring singer Stephen Pearcy, guitarists Robbin Crosby and Warren DeMartini, bassist Juan Croucier and drummer Bobby Blotzer, RATT released four consecutive platinum records in the mid-'80s. In addition to compiling some of RATT's most popular videos — "Round And Round", "Lovin' You's A Dirty Job" and "Lay It Down" — the DVD also contains several bonus features, including highlights from the band's triumphant tour of Japan, exclusive new commentary and never before released videos.

The CD "Tell The World: The Very Best Of Ratt" features standout songs from all seven of the group's albums, including such classics as "Wanted Man", "Back For More", and "Round And Round" from the band's triple platinum-selling Atlantic debut "Out Of The Cellar". "Tell The World: The Very Best Of Ratt" will also include an unreleased song from the "Reach For The Sky" sessions in addition to tracks from the Sony Portrait release "Ratt" and the independently released "Collage".

Both "Ratt: Videos From The Cellar: The Atlantic Years" and "Tell The World: The Very Best Of Ratt" were produced in cooperation with RATT and will be available at all retail outlets and at www.rhino.com for suggested list prices of $19.99 for the DVD and $18.98 for the CD, respectively.

"Ratt: Videos From The Cellar: The Atlantic Years" DVD track listing:

01. Wanted Man
02. You Think You're Tough
03. Back For More
04. Round And Round
05. Lay It Down
06. Shame Shame Shame
07. Lovin' You's A Dirty Job
08. I Want A Woman
09. Way Cool Jr.
10. You're In Love*
11. Dance*
12. Body Talk*
13. Slip Of The Lip*

DVD extras include commentary with Stephen Pearcy, Warren DeMartini and Bobby Blotzer.

*Never before released on DVD or VHS.

"Tell The World: The Very Best Of Ratt" CD track listing:

01. Dangerous But Worth The Risk
02. Back For More
03. Lovin' You's A Dirty Job
04. Nobody Rides For Free
05. Heads I Win, Tales You Lose
06. You're In Love
07. City To City
08. Body Talk
09. Way Cool Jr.
10. Round And Round
11. Lay It Down
12. I Want A Woman
13. Dance
14. Wanted Man
15. Slip Of The Lip
16. Shame Shame Shame
17. Lack Of Communication
18. Over The Edge
19. Steel River
20. No One Can Stop You Now*

*Previously unreleased

Want more Ratt news? Visit their MySpace page and read about how they are working on a new album!

Additional Stars Added To CMA Fest.

Press Release / Email

Heart-warming stories and riveting musical performances are the heart and soul of summer's hottest TV special "CMA Music Festival: Country's Night to Rock," airing Monday, July 23 (9:00-11:00 PM/ET) on the ABC Television Network. "CMA Music Festival is a phenomenon unlike any other and the special aims to capture it all - the unique interaction and relationship between the artists and their fans along with scorching performances by some of our format's most compelling stars," said CMA Chief Operating Officer Tammy Genovese.

Added to the list of artists appearing on the special are Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, Big & Rich, Sara Evans, LeAnn Rimes, and Josh Turner. Several of today's top hit makers are already scheduled to appear on the special including Brooks & Dunn, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Kellie Pickler, Sugarland, Rascal Flatts, Carrie Underwood, and Reba McEntire in a duet with Kelly Clarkson. More artists will be announced soon. This is the third time ABC will broadcast this special, which invites the whole country to America's biggest Country Music celebration.

JSS: The 'Journey' Forward

jeffscottsoto.com

July 7, 2006, Jeff Scott Soto began a new chapter in his life as lead singer for mega legends Journey. June 11, 2007, not even a year later, that chapter ended. Says Jeff "I was looking forward to a long, prosperous future with these guys but it seems they wanted something different than I brought to the table. No love lost though, they know what's best for the preservation of their legacy. I wish them all the best but now it's time to continue working on my own path again".

Jeff has just completed a European farewell tour with longtime bandmates Talisman & is set to continue where he left off on the new solo album he was creating before the Journey call. "A lot of folks are sad Talisman is over but perhaps we may extend the idea of saying goodbye a bit although I'm really looking forward to unleashing the new JSS sound to the world sooner than later".

Jeff has been writing with Swedish artist/producer/writer Paulo Mendonça for the past year as well as up & coming singer/writer Sam Grow on the new material. "Paulo writes the way I dream of my music sounding, everything he touches is gold to me. Sam is new on the scene, a kid I hear loads of potential in his own material, which I can also hear collaborating with on mine. It's a new, contemporary, soulful, rock, groove thing with a lot of melody!". The new album should be completed before the end of the year but no release date or label has been announced yet. Sounds can be heard on www.myspace.com/sewtoe as well as the many other aspects of Jeff's career can be found at www.jeffscottsoto.com. "Thanks for all the newfound support & loyalty out there, I have made MANY new friends & fans the past year & I hope to bring you along for the next ride!".

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Music Related:

◊ Sammy and the Wabo's Live - KSHE (06.20.2007): (Audio Of Show) Sammy and the Wabo's perform live at the DVD release of Livin' It Up - Live in St. Louis.

◊ Led Zeppelin To Reunite
◊ Queen, Rodgers Nine Songs Into New Album
◊ Kevin Cronin - New Newsletter Entry
◊ Axl Rose Fumes After Fan Throws Drink At Him

Misc. News:
◊ Wrestler Benoit, wife and son found dead

New Interview

June.25th.2007 - Monday

Morgan Lander - Kittie:
Kittie, the all-woman metal band from Ontario, Canada recently released their 4th studio album "Funeral For Yesterday." This disc caught us completely by surprise as it contains some amazing lyrics, vocals and in your face guitars. Even though Kittie has seen lineup changes since their incarnation they continue to push forward and can be found touring the States this summer. Recently Kittie's lead singer Morgan Lander took time out to answer questions on touring, the new album and more!

› Read Our Interview with Morgan Lander            Artist Website: www.kittierocks.com

Josh Kelley - New CD & Documentary

Press Release / Email

eDNK RECORDING ARTIST JOSH KELLEY RECORDS NEW CD AND FILMS DOCUMENTARY “MAKING THE MODERN-DAY LABEL”

Popular singer-songwriter Josh Kelley returns to his second home in Nashville, TN to record tracks for his new album, which he plans to release this Fall under his very own label, DNK Records. He is also producing and starring in a documentary entitled “Making the Modern-Day Label” which he started taping during his tour this past April. The documentary covers scenes from the road, interviews of Kelley and the other artists on the tour (including Alexa Wilkinson and Kate Voegele), and footage from his live shows. The film will also feature Kelley, the CEO of DNK Records, recording and producing his new album. Segments of the footage have been posted on Myspace (search under Josh Kelley).

Kelley was inspired to film the documentary mainly since he realizes that most people don’t fully understand what goes into breaking a new artist. “Most of the new artists today are going on indie labels,” say Kelley. “I started my own label because I saw it as a great way to get new music out to the masses a lot faster.” Kelley is also a proponent of using the Internet to promote new artists, as he himself got his first record deal with Hollywood Records through pushing his music through Napster. His documentary will also include behind-the-scenes footage of what it takes to be a new artist and the process of how to put a new record together for mass distribution.

Kelley has just wrapped up a 30+ US city tour which began in March in Boston and finished in LA in early May. Kelley has been performing to sold-out audiences throughout the country promoting his current album, Just Say the Word, which released last October. His singles “Just Say the Word” and “Beautiful Goodbye” continue to build momentum in radio, most notably in the Midwest and Northeast regions.

Having been on numerous TV shows in the past year, Kelley is no stranger to the camera. Recent television appearances include singing the national anthem for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Awards Ceremony and Toast, Emeril Live, Access Hollywood, and Naomi Judd’s New Morning. Last April, he was the featured guest artist on the Martha Stewart Show. Kelley’s songs have also been featured on nationally syndicated TV shows such as “Scrubs,” “Smallville,” “What About Brian,” and “Brothers and Sisters.”

Once filming is completed for the documentary, Kelley plans to include it as a bonus DVD to accompany his new CD. He also wants to eventually pitch it as a pilot for a reality show with the same title as his film. “I have had such an exciting journey, making my way from performing at college parties to hearing my songs on the radio to playing in front of TV cameras and sold-out shows across the country,” Kelley states. “I want to show the positive direction that the music business is going – and I’m leading the way.”

www.joshkelley.com                        www.myspace.com/joshkelley

Josh Kelley is coming to Tupelo, MS! In between recording tracks for his upcoming album, "Special Company" Josh Kelley heads to Tupelo's Ballard Park for a free July 4th event. While in town Kelley brings his distinct sound, which ranges from soulful and deep to bluegrass-infused to pop-driven, to the stage for a live performance on July 4th. He will be performing songs from his album, "Just Say The Word" which was released in October 2006 and from the upcoming album "Special Company" to be released this fall on Josh's own label, DNK records.

People Magazine calls Kelley, "the real deal, a genuine talent who brings sincere emotion to his straight-forward pop rock."

Steve Vai - Sound Theories Vol. I & II

www.vai.com

Epic Records has announced a June 26 release for Sound Theories Vol. I & II, a double-live CD capturing legendary guitarist Steve Vai's electrifying collaboration with the Netherlands Metropole Orchestra. The two-disc set spotlights rare material culled from five European performances, a studio session and a soundcheck rehearsal recording, all of which took place between mid-2004 and 2005.

Volume I features Vai playing guitar with the Orchestra, which has earned worldwide acclaim backing artists ranging from Mike Keneally, Terry Bozzio, Tony Bennett and Natalie Cole to Nancy Wilson and the Yellowjackets. Together they bring new life to both existing and never-before-heard Steve Vai songs, including "For the Love of God," "Liberty," "The Murder" and "Attitude Song," among others.

Volume II features the Orchestra performing compositions penned by Vai, including “Shadows and Sparks” and “Bledsoe Bluvd.”

Says Vai, “I wanted to be a composer ever since I was a young boy. Though the guitar fell into my lap and my fingers were glued to the instrument, I studied composition and musical notation long before I even started playing the guitar. Through high school, college and beyond, I kept up my studies but the prospect of getting your music performed by an orchestra when you're only considered to be an over-the-top electric rock guitar shredder seemed virtually impossible. To be able to hear your music performed is the greatest gift a composer could hope for. This was a dream project for me.”

The full track listing for both discs is as follows:

Disc One - Sound Theories Vol 1: “The Aching Hunger”
1. Kill the Guy with the Ball
2. The God Eaters
3. The Murder Prologue
4. The Murder
5. Gentle Ways
6. Answers
7. I'm Becoming
8. Salamanders in the Sun
9. Liberty
10. The Attitude Song
11. For the Love of God

Disc Two - Sound Theories Vol 2: “Shadows and Sparks”
1. Shadows and…
2. Sparks
3. Frangelica Pt 1
4. Frangelica Pt. 2
5. Helios and Vesta
6. Bledsoe Bluvd.

A yet-to-be-titled companion DVD featuring highlights from the performances will be released on August 21.
Steve Vai - Online Store

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Music Related:

◊ Rockline will be opening their online store on July 23rd. For the opening, 20 shows will be available for purchase. Keep checking rocklineradio.com for additional details.

◊ Spice Girls to reveal ‘future plans’ on June 28
◊ The Cure begin North American tour in September
◊ Apple now third-largest US music retailer-survey
◊ Smashing Pumpkins to Perform in N.C.
◊ Rock band the Donnas take control after stumble
◊ Rock act Ash embraces singles-only deal
◊ Rock godfathers The Who close muddy Glastonbury
◊ 'The Lion Sleeps Tonight' Singer Dies

Misc. News:
◊ Touchdown! Atlantis lands in California
◊ The Man With The Hat is Back

Definitive Bob Dylan Retrospective

June.22nd.2007 - Friday

A career-spanning, three-CD retrospective of Bob Dylan's music - DYLAN - will be released worldwide on October 1 by Columbia Records. This definitive Bob Dylan collection chronicles the artist's four decades of groundbreaking studio recordings, as well as his unparalleled influence on popular music and culture.

According to Sony BMG Commercial Music Group President John Ingrassia, "Each new generation eventually discovers what millions of people the world over have known for decades: That Bob Dylan is a singular artist whose songs and recordings represent the very best that music has to offer. This DYLAN set will provide a comprehensive introduction to an important body of work that continues to impact our culture and attract multitudes of new fans each year."

Song selection for this comprehensive set is still being determined, and will be greatly influenced by impassioned fan lobbying on website dylan07.com. This site -- which went live in February for fans to share thoughts on Bob Dylan's music, swap stories about first hearing the artist's songs and seeing him in concert, and more -- has been updated today with the DYLAN artwork, a promotional trailer for the album, as well as the ability for fans to vote on the DYLAN track listing.

Visitors to dylan07.com will also find details on a forthcoming online photo exhibit in which notable fans from the worlds of music, film, art and fashion will contribute images inspired by Bob Dylan. Fans will be able to contribute images as well, and a winner will be chosen by one of the celebrity photographers to receive a Sony Alpha digital camera and have his or her image included in the exhibit.

Two additional versions of DYLAN will be released simultaneously with the 3-CD set: A deluxe edition featuring the three disks in a cloth covered case, and accompanied by an extended booklet of classic and rare Dylan imagery plus 10 limited edition postcards highlighting pivotal moments of Bob's career; and the "Best Of" edition that will feature 18 songs on a single disk.

Steve Perry - No Reunion With Journey

www.fanasylum.com/steveperry/

Hello everyone. This is Steve Perry. As you are aware I have yet to launch my own web site and Fan Asylum is still the only credible site for official statements from me. Once again they have kindly allowed me to post this statement. It has been brought to my attention that there is a rumor circulating that I am reuniting with Journey. I want to go on record as saying that I have no such plans whatsoever to do that. What you have heard is only a rumor. I’m truly sorry for any disappointment this rumor may be causing.

I also would like to say that your faithfulness continues to warm my heart.

Thank you so very much,
Steve Perry

GAC A Hundred Miles Or More Special

Alison Krauss.com

On July 14th & 15th Alison Krauss will be the subject of a one-hour music special on the Great American Country (GAC) television network. Entitled Alison Krauss: A Hundred Miles Or More, the special will feature Alison performing songs from her new album A Hundred Miles Or More: A Collection. Members of Union Station are featured on all the tracks along with special guest musicians such as Tony Rice, Sam Bush, and Stuart Duncan.

It also features memorable duets with country superstar Brad Paisley ("Whiskey Lullaby"), legendary singer/songwriter James Taylor ("How's The World Treating You") and, British rocker John Waite ("Lay Down Beside Me").

GAC Air Times: July 14th @ 9:00pm (EST) / July 15th @ 1:00am (EST) and 6:00pm (EST)

Seven Wiser - New Album Update

MySpace Bulletin / Email

Well, last weekend Jerry knocked off all of his drum tracks in a day and a half.....the guys a machine!!!
This weekend Bill and Rob will tackle the Guitar and bass tracks in Seven Wiser's "Firehazard Studios" (look at the pics to see the conglomeration of wires we assemble to record!!!) We are looking forward to everyone hearing the fruit of our efforts.

We have also just been added to a show at the Starland Ballroom in Sayreville NJ on July 27th with our labelmates 40 Below Summer, so come check the band out live, you will not be disappointed!!! Check our page often as live dates are being added for the summer and fall. Seven Wiser OUT!!!

www.myspace.com/sevenwiser

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Music Related:

◊ Keaton Simons will be joining Joe Firstman's house band tonight on Last Call with Carson Daly. Check your local listings for show information & time.

◊ Father Of The Solid-Body Electric Guitar DVD
◊ Live Album Chronicles 1969 Simon & Garfunkel Tour
◊ Heart's Wilson Seeks 'Hope' On First Solo Album

Aly & AJ - Insomniatic Pre-Order

June.21st.2007 - Thursday
 

On July 10th, Aly & AJ will release their 3rd studio album of their careers. The album "Insomniatic" features 13 tracks, the current single "Potential Breakup Song" can currently be heard on Radio Disney. As of the new album was enough for their fans, their new film "Sweet 16: The Movie" will air on MTV on July 8th. It will be released on DVD the same day as their album.

If you are interested in pre-ordering their upcoming release make sure you visit www.skyroo.com/alyandaj. Currently they are running an exclusive pre-order only bonus. If you order from them you will receive an individually numbered signature card. This is a limited time offer as there are only 5000 signature cards available.

Twisted Sister - The Video Years DVD

Press Release / Email

Big hair, big hits and even bigger riffs – the era of big metal returns as Rhino presents the DVD debut of hard-to-find and out-of-print video collections from one of the biggest-selling bands of the ’80s: Twisted Sister. The DVD offers a clear digital picture along with Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound mixes that capture the band at the height of their popularity. Twisted Sister’s THE VIDEO YEARS will be available from Rhino on June 26 at all retail outlets and at www.rhino.com.

“2006 marked the 30th anniversary and 9000th live performance of Twisted Sister” says Twisted Sister guitarist Jay Jay French. “In reaching this historic milestone, it is only fitting that this DVD, encompassing some of the most legendary videos ever made, finally will be commercially available. This intense renewed interest in Twisted Sister comes at a time when the band is performing to its greatest audiences around the world, proving once and for all that not only did the band help create the MTV era, its shows have become the stuff of legend.”

Twisted Sister – singer Dee Snider, guitarists Jay Jay French and Eddie “Fingers” Ojeda, bassist Mark Mendoza and drummer A.J. Pero – took the country by storm in 1984 thanks to the band’s breakthrough album, Stay Hungry and its follow-up Come Out And Play. The band’s music videos including the hit “We're Not Gonna Take It,” their first television performance and a legendary 1984 concert performance “Stay Hungry” have been combined into a single DVD entitled THE VIDEO YEARS. The DVD also includes new interviews with the band, actor Mark Metcalf who played the father and teacher in “We're Not Gonna Take It” and “I Wanna Rock” respectively, Lemmy Kilminster and much more.

DVD Track Listings

TWISTED SISTER: THE VIDEO YEARS

1. “It’s Only Rock ’N’ Roll (But I Like It)”*
2. “You Can’t Stop Rock ’N’ Roll”
3. “We’re Not Gonna Take It”
4. “I Wanna Rock”
5. “The Price”
6. “Leader Of The Pack”
7. “Be Chrool To Your Scuel”
8. “Hot Love”

TWISTED LIVE: STAY HUNGRY

1. “The Kids Are Back”
2. “We’re Not Gonna Take It”
3. “I Wanna Rock”
4. “Under The Blade”
5. “The Beast”
6. “You Can’t Stop Rock ’N’ Roll”
7. “The Price”
8. “Stay Hungry”
9. “Burn In Hell”
10. “S. M. F.”

DVD Extras include video commentaries for each of their videos with all five band members and Mark Metcalf, star of “We’re Not Gonna Take It” and “I Wanna Rock”

*Twisted Sister’s first-ever television performance in 1982

"I never felt totally comfortable" in Styx, Tommy Shaw...

Press Release / Email

In the just-released book 'The Grand Delusion: The Unauthorized True Story of Styx', guitarist Tommy Shaw speaks candidly about his sense of alienation from the other members of Styx during the superstar band's heyday, from his joining the band in December of 1975 to its breakup after 1983's 'Kilroy Was Here' album. "These guys had money, they had a plan, they had a deal . . . all totally foreign to me," Shaw told biographer Sterling Whitaker in an exclusive interview.

Shaw joined Styx in late 1975 after the group had scored its first Top Ten hit with "Lady", written and sung by keyboardist Dennis DeYoung. Shaw's arrival cemented the classic Styx lineup that would go on to release a string of hits including "Come Sail Away", "Fooling Yourself", "Renegade", "Blue Collar Man", "Babe", "The Best of Times", "Too Much Time On My Hands", "Mr. Roboto" and "Don't Let It End". From 1977 to 1982 Styx recorded four consecutive Triple Platinum albums in a row, becoming the first band ever to do so. In 1980 the band won the People's Choice Award for Song of the Year for "Babe", and the Gallup poll named Styx the most popular band in America.

Despite the band's enormous success, Shaw was often ill at ease as a member of Styx. In 'The Grand Delusion' he reveals, for the first time, his sense of intimidation in dealing with the older, better-educated members of Styx. "I never felt totally comfortable amongst the other guys," he says. "I felt totally comfortable onstage, always, but never really was made to feel like an equal member. I still don't understand that one; you know how some people can make you feel 'less than' by their education . . . I always felt like they were a little bit ashamed at having someone in the band who wasn't a college graduate. But I was not ashamed of the fact - I already knew what I wanted to do, and I was educated in the streets and in the clubs and on the road, and I've done well for myself. But that part obviously baffled me." Shaw ultimately quit Styx by storming off stage in the middle of a concert during the ill-fated 'Kilroy Was Here' tour.

"What's interesting about this interview is that it was done in 1993, at a time when Tommy had actually allowed the other members of Styx to buy him out of his participation in the name," says author Sterling Whitaker. "It was a great time to get the truth from him, because he had nothing to lose and nobody to protect. At that time he made it clear to me that he never, ever wanted to play with Styx again. He actually said to me, 'They would have to hold my daughter hostage, and playing with them again would be the ransom'. What's really funny about that is, about a year and half later he reunited with Styx to re-record 'Lady' for the Greatest Hits record, and he's been back with Styx ever since!" Whitaker says with a laugh. "That just goes to show you what strange bedfellows the music business creates. Styx has always been a volatile mix of personalities."

Styx will be on tour with Def Leppard throughout the summer. The entire text of Sterling Whitaker's exclusive interview with Tommy Shaw is online at www.styxcollector.com. 'The Grand Delusion: The Unauthorized True Story of Styx' is available at www.thegranddelusion.com, as well as various online retailers.

Minnie Driver - Seastories

Press Release / Email / Combined

Though best known as an actress, Minnie Driver defied critics' expectations and established herself as a serious artist and musician with her well-received debut album Everything I've Got in My Pocket. Her new CD SEASTORIES goes farther in exploring new musical territory, from the rich sonic textures of "Beloved" to the bluesy soul of "Cold Dark River" to the seductive minor key groove of "Mockingbird" to the poetic chamber folk of "Lakewater Hair." Producer Marc "Doc" Dauer and guest musicians Ryan Adams and The Cardinals, Liz Phair and Rami Jaffee (The Wallfowers) match but never overwhelm Driver's vivid lyrics, soaring melodies and spirited performances on this thoroughly pleasing collection of intelligent pop.

“Sorry Baby” is an affectionate apology to a heartbroken lover. The singer laments “I wish I could fake what you want”. Liz Phair’s backing vocals are unmistakable in this mellow rocker.

Ryan Adams makes an appearance playing guitar on the album’s third track “Beloved”. Adams’ signature country tinged style enhances this acoustic guitar and piano driven lullaby. Driver’s soothing vocals plead with her beloved: “why don’t you just stay here in the sun?”

London Skies” is a delicate melody dedicated to the unconditional love between a parent and a child. The Latin flavor of “Mockingbird”, the country rock of “King Without A Queen”, and the bluesy ballad of “Cold Dark River” round out SEASTORIES.

Minnie Driver began her professional career as a singer and songwriter in a band signed to Island Records in the UK in the early ‘90s before embarking on a career as a successful actress. Driver was nominated for an Academy Award® for her role in Good Will Hunting and has appeared in numerous films including Circle of Friends, Grosse Point Blank, Sleepers, and The Phantom of the Opera, for which she sang an original song written by Andrew Lloyd Webber. The song, entitled “Learn to be Lonely” was nominated for an Academy Award®. Driver can currently be seen starring in the FX series The Riches opposite Eddie Izzard.

Minnie Driver will tour North America extensively this summer. Look for Seastories in stores on July 17th.

You can preview all the songs by visiting her official website: www.minniedriver.com.

Loverboy - Preview 2 Tracks

Island Report

You can now preview 2 new songs from Loverboy by visiting: www.bananatoons.com (Click The Loverboy Photo)

The tracks "Back For More" and "Getting Started" both contain the classic Loverboy elements but also blend in the modern rock sound, which completely works. After one listen you'll be back for more, clearly this band has something to say and their going to say it. Sounds like we may finally have a classic rock band who's on the right track.

News Tidbits

Interesting Articles

Music Related:

◊ VH1 will be airing a marathon of Behind The Music episodes today starting at 11:30am CT. Here are the episodes that will air in Central Time: 11:30am - Notorious B.I.G., 1PM - LL Cool J, 2PM - New Edition, 3PM - Backstreet Boys, 4PM - Nick Lachey, 5PM - George Michael, 6PM - Kid Rock, 7PM - Ratt, 8PM - Pantera.

◊ Bon Jovi - Stripped Sessions (Audio/Video Stream)
◊ Mariachi Singer Antonio Aguilar Dies
◊ Sammy Hagar's Tequila Supergroup

Raspberries - Live On Sunset Strip CD/DVD

June.20th.2007 - Wednesday

July 31, 2007 Rykodisc will release “Live on Sunset Strip,” the first live album and first new release in 33 years from the influential power-pop group Raspberries. Recorded live at the Sunset Strip’s famed House of Blues in Los Angeles, CA. by Grammy award winning engineer and producer Mark Linett on October 21st, 2005, the performance marks the triumphant return after 30 years of the band’s original line-up of Eric Carmen, Wally Bryson, Dave Smalley and Jim Bonfanti.

“As they're running through their hits, and there are quite a few, everything from ‘Tonight’ to ‘Let's Pretend’ to ‘I Wanna Be With You’…Last night was a religious experience… I've got to tell you ‘Overnight Sensation’ was the best live performance I've heard all year. It was SENSATIONAL!” – Bob Lefsetz, The Lefsetz Letter, reviewing the Sunset Strip concert.

“Live on Sunset Strip” will be available in two different versions – the first, a deluxe digipak containing 21 live tracks from the concert on two CDs and a bonus five song DVD. The deluxe set features all of the band’s classic radio hits including “Go All The Way,” “I Wanna Be With You,” and “Let’s Pretend,” plus Rolling Stone Magazine’s 1974 Record of the Year, “Overnight Sensation (Hit Record),” alongside critically acclaimed fan favorites and covers including a scorching version of The Who’s “I Can’t Explain.” The second version contains 13 of the band’s best-known songs. Both packages contain rare photos, special liner notes and hard to find lyrics to all of the songs.

Raspberries are considered by many to be the prime architects of the power-pop genre, and are well known for their legendary live performances. Formed in 1970 by Jim Bonfanti (drums), Eric Carmen (rhythm guitar, keyboards), Wally Bryson (lead guitar), and Dave Smalley (bass), the band released four albums from 1972 – 1974: “Raspberries” and “Fresh” (both released in 1972), 1973’s follow-up “Side 3,” and the final 1974 release “Starting Over.”

Additional Special Edition sets WILL be available to order on June 22nd. Updated details about the Special Edition sets will be posted here by June 20th. Visit: www.raspberriesonline.com

Heaven And Hell w/Alice Cooper & Queensryche

Press Release

Following the group's successful spring tour, Heaven And Hell will again wow American audiences with its bewitching stage set and truly timeless, classic metal as Ronnie James Dio, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Vinny Appice return for the second U.S. leg of the quartet's continuing world tour. Set to launch on September 5, Heaven And Hell's tour will stop in many cities not included on the previous leg and will feature opening sets from Alice Cooper and Queensrÿche. Tickets for the first 12 dates will go on sale the weekend of June 22 with more dates to be announced soon. There will also be a special fan presale for the first dates beginning Wednesday, June 20 at 12 Noon EDT at heavenandhell.frontgatetickets.com.

Last year, the iconic quartet reconvened to record a trio of songs for "Black Sabbath: The Dio Years," a compilation that features essential songs by the short-lived, but beloved incarnation of Black Sabbath fronted by Dio. Dubbing the group Heaven And Hell after one of its signature hits, the band launched a much-anticipated world tour earlier this year. The group celebrated its first U.S. concert in 15 years with a sold-out performance at Radio City Music Hall. Recorded and filmed in its entirety, Rhino captured the historic concert for a CD and DVD release, "Heaven And Hell Live From Radio City Music Hall," set for an August 28 release.

Alice Cooper and Queensrÿche will join Heaven And Hell on the road this fall creating one of the year's hardest-hitting triple bills. In addition to his duties as a rock 'n' roll icon, Cooper is the host of the syndicated "Nights With Alice Cooper" radio show. Cooper's autobiography, "Alice Cooper, Golf Monster," was released last month. Queensrÿche is riding high on the success of last year's "Operation: mindcrime II" album and tour, which brought the group's complete Mindcrime saga to the stage in its entirety. On July 3, Rhino will release CD and DVD versions of "Mindcrime At The Moore," which feature Queensrÿche's performance in front of its hometown crowd at Moore Theatre in Seattle.

SaveNetRadio Rocks Congress

Press Release / Email

After holding an open-air concert on the lawn of the United States Senate last night, Members of the SaveNetRadio coalition visited Capitol Hill again today to gather support for legislation pending in the House and Senate. Thirty-one artists traveled to Washington D.C. to meet with more than 50 lawmakers today to discuss the importance of Internet radio and the threat a March 2nd ruling by the Copyright Royalty Board poses to the future of Net radio and the artists it supports.

"The fight to preserve music diversity on the Internet is as much about artists and listeners as it is about webcasters," said SaveNetRadio spokesperson, Jake Ward. "Artists understand that the future of Net radio is at stake, and they recognize that that if Net radio dies, artists will lose a valuable tool for promoting their music and finding new fans. The only viable solution is to establish a fair system that supports well-earned compensation for artists who create music and a sustainable business model for webcasters playing that music. More than 6,000 individual artists and bands have joined the SaveNetRadio coalition and the fight to save Internet radio from the unprecedented and illogical March 2nd royalty rate increase imposed by the Copyright Royalty Board. The SaveNetRadio coalition and its partners appreciate the time and energy these artists have dedicated to come to Washington to speak with Members of Congress today, and we encourage more artists that benefit from Internet airplay to follow their example."

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◊ Duff Taking 'Dignity' On Summer Tour
◊ Exclusive: Moby Inks U.S. Deal With Mute
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New Album Review & Captures Section

June.19th.2007 - Tuesday

The last couple years have been a turbulent time for Bon Jovi as when they released Have A Nice Day things finally looked like they were falling back into place for the band. Even though the guys were exploring an edgier more modern melodic rock sound all it took was one song to send all hopes that Jovi would continue heading down the right path crashing back down to earth. Looking at it in perspective there is no denying that Who Says You Can't Go Home showed the band in a new light garnering them another huge hit single however the risks that Jon and Richie took ultimately caused a breaking point between a majority of their fans. The question that comes to mind here is..... Click Here To Read The Full Review.

 

Even though it is a few days late, the new captures section is now uploaded. This section currently features captures of Bon Jovi, Poison, Avril Lavigne, Goo Goo Dolls & Chris Cornell. To View This Section Click Here.

New Article - Little Texas - Missing Years

Island Report

Born in 1998 Little Texas was destined for stardom. Though the band would go on to have countless hits they have pretty much faded away. While some music fans may have forgotten this great band, we look back at their career and what their future holds.

If you were a fan of country music in the 90's then you probably ran into a song or two from this band. Some of the big hits were "Some Guys Have All The Love," "What Might Have Been," "God Bless Texas," "Kick A Little," and their 1994 tune "My Love" which hit #1. After their massive success the band sort of hit a snag..... Read The Full Article Here.

Ringo Starr - Very Best Of

Press Release / Email

Since he first began his career in the 1960s with The Beatles, Ringo Starr has been one of the world's brightest musical luminaries. On August 28, Starr's four EMI Music catalog albums, Sentimental Journey (1970), Beaucoups Of Blues (1970), the platinum-certified Ringo (1973) and gold-certified Goodnight Vienna (1974) will make their global digital release debuts across all of the world's major digital sales providers. On the same date, six Ringo Starr ringtones will also debut, and Capitol/EMI Music Catalog Marketing will release the first-ever career and label-spanning collection of Starr's best solo recordings, PHOTOGRAPH: The Very Best Of Ringo Starr.

Starr's EMI catalog will be available in digital form for the first time on a global basis. Fans will be able to purchase Starr's EMI catalog works from all of EMI's digital distribution partners, and the titles will also be part of EMI's premium download offering (free of digital rights management and in a higher-quality bit rate) from participating retailers.

To be released physically in CD and Collector's Edition CD/DVD packages and digitally, PHOTOGRAPH: The Very Best Of Ringo Starr presents 20 standout Starr tracks, including seven Top 10 Pop hits, released between 1970 and 2005 with Capitol, Atlantic, Mercury, Boardwalk, Private Music and Koch. The Collector's Edition adds seven never before released film and video clips on DVD, including original promotional films for "It Don't Come Easy," "Sentimental Journey," "Back Off Boogaloo," among others, and the music video for "Act Naturally" (with Buck Owens).

The world has known and loved Ringo Starr since he was a Beatle, and it is his unique talent and his love of creating and playing music that continues to captivate fans around the world, and which shines through in every one of his songs. "Ultimately, what's most impressive about Ringo Starr isn't what he's been, but rather who he is," said Rolling Stone magazine Contributing Editor David Wild. "The man's great heart and soul, his wit and wisdom." A liner notes essay by Wild is complemented by a selection of classic Starr photos in PHOTOGRAPH: The Very Best Of Ringo Starr's 12-page booklets. The CD will be released in a jewelcase, while the Collector's Edition will be presented in a deluxe fold-out digipak package. PHOTOGRAPH: The Very Best Of Ringo Starr celebrates the legacy of this iconic and universally loved artist. Covering the full scope of Starr's solo career, the new collection's seven Top 10 Pop hits include "It Don't Come Easy," "Photograph," "Oh My My," "Snookeroo," "Back Off Boogaloo," "Only You (And You Alone)," and his playful and now tongue-in-cheek "No-No Song." Also included are "Act Naturally" (with Buck Owens), "You're Sixteen (You're Beautiful and You're Mine)," and the critically acclaimed "Weight of the World" and "Fading In and Fading Out."

For more information, visit Ringo Starr's official Website: www.ringostarr.com.

PHOTOGRAPH: THE VERY BEST OF RINGO STARR (CD & Digital Album)
1. Photograph (1973)
2. It Don't Come Easy (1971)
3. You're Sixteen (You're Beautiful And You're Mine) (1973)
4. Back Off Boogaloo (1972)
5. I'm The Greatest (1973)
6. Oh My My (1973)
7. Only You (And You Alone) (1974)
8. Beaucoups Of Blues (1970)
9. Early 1970 (1971)
10. Snookeroo (1974)
11. The No-No Song (1974)
12. (It's All Down To) Goodnight Vienna (1974)
13. Hey Baby (1976)
14. Weight Of The World (1993)
15. A Dose Of Rock 'N' Roll (1976)
16. King Of Broken Hearts (1998)
17. Never Without You (2003)
18. Act Naturally (with Buck Owens) (1989)
19. Wrack My Brain (1981)
20. Fading In and Fading Out (2005)

PHOTOGRAPH: THE VERY BEST OF RINGO STARR (Collector's Edition) CD/DVD
DVD Contents:
Sentimental Journey (1970 promotional film)
It Don't Come Easy (1971 promotional film)
Back Off Boogaloo (1972 promotional film)
You're Sixteen (You're Beautiful And You're Mine) (1973 promotional film)
Only You (And You Alone) (1974 promotional film)
Act Naturally (with Buck Owens) (1989 -- music video)
Goodnight Vienna (1974 -- promotional
film for album)

Ringo Starr Ringtones (available August 28, 2007)
Photograph
It Don't Come Easy
You're Sixteen (You're Beautiful And You're Mine)
I'm The Greatest
Only You (And You Alone)
Back Off Boogaloo

Don't Stop Believin' - Download Sales

Press Release

"The Sopranos" may be over, but the timeless music of Journey lives on. After Journey's classic power ballad "Don't Stop Believin'" served as the soundtrack to the climactic final set-piece of HBO's hit mafia family television series, download sales of the song on iTunes rocketed an incredible 482% for the period from Saturday, June 9 (the night before "The Sopranos" finale) through Tuesday, June 12.

As downloads of Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" reached record numbers, demand for the band's CD catalog began accelerating. By Thursday, June 14, sales for Journey's "Greatest Hits" album had increased 104% at Best Buy; 98% at Borders; 97% at Target; and 40% at Circuit City.

During a typical week, "Don't Stop Believin'," a perennial favorite, averages roughly 1,000 downloads per day on iTunes. On Sunday, June 10 (immediately post-finale), that number jumped to 2,491. On Monday, June 11, that figure hit 6,531. By Wednesday, June 13, the song was #1 on the iTunes Music Rock Chart and #18 on the iTunes Music Top 100 chart, a phenomenally strong showing for a track that's turning 26 this year.

Ted Nugent - Love Grenade

TedNugent.com

Stay tuned to TedNugent.com for all your Love Grenade updates. In the coming weeks we’ll have a release date and album artwork. For now, check out the tracklisting below. Who’s thankful that the Nuge is ‘Still Raising Hell’? The first single, ‘Love Grenade’, drops June 23. Ted Nugent will be on Rockline, August 29th.

1. Love Grenade
2. Still Raising Hell
3. FUNK U
4. GirlScout Cookies
5. Journey
6. Geronimo & Me
7. EagleBrother
8. Spirit of the Buffalo
9. Aborigini
10. Stand
11. Broadside
12. Bridge Over Troubled Daughters
13. Lay With Me

News Tidbits

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◊ To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the '1987' album, there now is a brand new interview with David Coverdale on Whitesnake's official website.

◊ Rod Stewart Marries Model
◊ Bon Jovi Channels Turmoil in New CD
◊ Michael Jackson Settles $48M Lawsuit
◊ MSN Live - Mandy Moore (Online Stream Available Now)
◊ MSN Live - Velvet Revolver (Online Stream - June 21st)
◊ Past 2 Weeks Of News Has Been Archived

Misc Info:
◊ Mr. Wizard, dead at age 89
◊ Tiger's wife gives birth to daughter

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