Blues rock guitar titan Joe Bonamassa will be performing this Monday, May 21st on the David
Letterman Show as a featured guest artist with Paul Shaffer and the CBS
Orchestra.
This appearance comes the day before the release of his new album '
Driving Towards The Daylight' out via J&R Adventures May 22nd in North America.
Bonamassa said, "I am a huge Letterman
fan since I was 6 years old and I can't wait to sit in with Paul Shaffer
and his band". Check your local listings for times.
Planet Rock is reporting Paul Rodgers says that the band contemplated reforming later this year.
In a new interview with Classic Rock Magazine Paul Rodgers reveals that Free came close to reforming for a special one-off show this year.
Rodgers says: "There was talk of possibly something connected with the Olympics, but I don’t see it coming together now.
"One of the things that is difficult in my mind is that Paul was the soul of the band in many respects, and I hesitate to mess with that.
"If I was going to even think about it, it would mean getting someone who had a really great feel for that particular way in which Paul Kossoff played. The person I think comes closest is Peter Bullick from Debbie Bonham’s band.
"But as I said, there are no actual plans just now.”
American Blues News is reporting the tragic news that Michael “Iron Man” Burks, the celebrated Arkansas blues master whose attacking style was one of the most powerful in the industry, has passed. It was reported that Burks collapsed in the Atlanta airport on his way back from Italy. He was 54 years old.
Bruce Iglauer, owner of Alligator Records, just released the following statement: “Michael ‘Iron Man’ Burks, the great blues guitarist and singer, has died suddenly. He was returning from a successful tour of Europe and collapsed in customs at the Atlanta airport. He was rushed to the hospital but they were unable to revive him. Michael was a sweet man, hugely talented and deeply soulful. I was proud to have him call me his friend.”
Burks came up in the blues when his bluesman father, a former blues musician, opened a Juke Joint deep in Arkansas. From the incredibly early age of two, Burks was playing guitar and mastering riffs. His amazing fire and power on stage gained the artist an incredible reputation, and in 2001, he joined Alligator Records, releasing Make It Rain, a critically acclaimed masterpiece. The album was a celebrated gem, garnering the attention of many major magazines and publications.
In a chilling and gut-wrenching exchange on Facebook, Michael Burks left a message for his wife Bobbie Burks on Friday evening. “Miss my Wife”, said the big man. Her reply, “Your Wife misses you too! 35 hours and 30 minutes left. I’m excited! 3 1/2 weeks is too long without you!”
His on-stage presence could be described as locomotive in it’s style — world famous for his attacking, searing guitar prowess, Burk blew crowds away at some of the biggest blues festivals in the country. His unique version of electrified, in every sense of the word, delta blues shocked and astounded audiences across the world.
Burks will be dearly missed by his many friends, fans, and family.
Here's Burks performing last night from what would be his final performance May 5th in Zingem, Begium at Zingem Bluesnight :
Henne Music is reporting that Deep Purple guitarist Steve Morse has confirmed some of the plans for a new album by the rock legends.
“In a couple of weeks,” Morse tells Glide magazine, “Deep Purple has a writing session and we’re producing an album with Bob Ezrin, who’s done KISS, Pink Floyd, Peter Gabriel, Alice Cooper, and he also worked on the last Kansas album, when I was with Kansas. So he’s one of my favorite producers and that’s going to be our studio album. It’s probably going to be more of an extravaganza.”
Purple have been talking on and off for some time about their reluctance to do a new project while they continue their endless touring cycle, but Morse says the band is aware that time is moving forward without new music.
“Everybody realizes we’re not going to do this forever,” he explains, “so to me it feels like this is a really important album to do well. So we’ve got that coming up and mixed in with that, and that is most of the summer with the album, and then I have to leave when they’re doing vocals on that to do the G3 tour.”
Purple’s last studio album is 2005’s “Rapture Of The Deep.”
Black Sabbath will play an intimate homecoming show at O2 Academy in Birmingham on Saturday, May 19 as a warm-up for their headlining set at this year’s Download Festival. The band also plans to play at this year’s Lollapalooza festival, which runs from August 3 to 5 at Grant Park in downtown Chicago.
Sabbath have not yet confirmed whether original drummer Bill Ward will be part of the reunion, but Ozzy, guitarist Tony Iommi and bass player Geezer Butler have been working on a new album in London. The album will be their first full-length recording together in 33 years.
The band's original touring plans were put on hold when Iommi was diagnosed with cancer. The original European dates have been replaced with “Ozzy & Friends” concerts, which will feature Ozzy’s core band of guitarist Gus G, bass player Blasko and drummer Tommy Clufetos, as well as special guests Zakk Wylde, Slash and Geezer Butler.
Tickets for the O2 show go on sale at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 4 and are priced at £4.
Blues Rock guitar titan Joe Bonamassa has released the first video from his upcoming 13th album in the form of the title track, 'Driving Towards The Daylight'.
The album, set for world-wide release through J&R Adventures May 21st in Europe and May 22 in North America, also features performances from Aerosmith guitarist Brad Whitford and his son Harrison, Blondie Chaplin (guitar), Anton Fig (drums and percussion), Arlan Schierbaum (keyboard), Michael Rhodes (bass), Carmine Rojas (bass), Jeff Bova and The Bovaland Brass, Pat Thrall (guitar) and Aussie rock vocal legend Jimmy Barnes (Cold Chisel).
Driving Towards The Daylight was produced by Kevin “Caveman” Shirley (Black Crowes, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin), making this Bonamassa and Shirley’s seventh album collaboration in six years.
The album will also be released in a Limited Edition Digibook format, which includes a 72 page booklet with exclusive photos and interview with Bonamassa. (Photo credit : Arnie Goodman)
"I met Ryan in 2006 and was very impressed at the depth of his influence
and his ability to put said influences together in his own way.. To
watch him grow as a artist and to hear his name mentioned to me as much
as it has is a testament to his hard work and skill."~ Joe Bonamassa
Some may question the wisdom and rationale of taking five years before releasing a follow-up to a critically acclaimed debut album. Especially when said album, although widely respected was not, in this day and age of manufactured pop stars and divas - a charting album. Some might even say, "Boy you're a stone cold fool"...and, in most cases they would be right.
However, that's exactly what 25 year old Albuquerque based blues rock guitarist Ryan McGarvey did between the release of 2007's 'Forward In Reverse' and 2012's long awaited sophomore album, the aptly titled 'Redefined'. Whether or not some may question the motives, the time and effort were obviously worth it. For with this release, McGarvey states a very strong musical case to be ranked amongst the finest in the as of late burgeoning blues rock scene, alongside such well established players such as Joe Bonamassa, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Walter Trout and Philip Sayce.
From the opening notes of the album's lead off track, "All The Little Things", you certainly get a sense that you are in for a very special ride. Commencing with delicately picked acoustic guitar notes, the track soon burst wide open with an acoustic rhythm which is a musical cousin to Kenny Wayne Shepherd's "Blue On Black", only harder edged. Layered guitars give way to short bursts of fleet fingered lead work before building to a crescendo of power chords to end the track.
"Never Seem To Learn" is more of a straight ahead riff rocker which takes him out of the blues rock realm for a spell. Which is continued on the next track, "My Sweet Angel". , its repeated guitar line motif driving the song along before metamorphosising into a full blown hard rocker, the high production values adding to the overall effect of the song.
"Starry Night" begins with Hendrix by way of Eric Johnson influenced licks, but quickly morphs into a rocking mode that Eric rarely visits. Featuring a Bonamassa-esque guitar solo, the track is certainly one of many highlights on the disc.
"Blues Knockin' At My Door" is one of the rare straight ahead blues rockers on the album. McGarvey shines on slide here, appropriating the right amount of grittiness to push the song through convincingly.
"Prove Myself" is a prime slice of funk- blues, which is much funkier than a white boy from Albuquerque has any right to be. On top of a slinky, pulsing, grooving rhythm courtesy of bassist Sam Miller and drummer August Johnson, McGarvey builds the track from smoldering to the point where finally when he solos he literally explodes, resulting in an exhilerating guitar experience. One of the definite highlights of this disc, it's a clear demonstration of the instrumental prowess which led him to be chosen out of hundreds of entrants to appear at Eric Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festival in 2010.
The next track "Blue Morning Night" might at first listen appear to be somewhat of a letdown in comparison, but it's only side by side with the previous song where it may appear such. Taken on its own, it is a fine composition which by the time the guitar solo appears has redeemed itself quite nicely.
"So Close To Heaven", quite possibly the best composition song-wise McGarvey has written thus far follows. In terms of overall mood, featuring guitar lines which seemingly fall from the sky,it contains a majestic soaring solo which has to be the best he has put forth on record as yet. Relatively brief, it shows economy and power in its phrasing and demonstrates his impressive ability to build drama in what he plays, and takes the song to another level, musically speaking.
The straight ahead, uptempo rocker "Downright Insane" is next. Once again, compared to the previous track it's bound to be a bit of a comedown, but overall it's not a bad track, just not up to the standard set previously. It does contain a fiery guitar solo at mid point which elevates it to the more than listenable category, and at a little over two and half minutes it does pass rather quickly.
The bluesy "Pennies" returns the album to memorable phase. Over a slow, steady groove, McGarvey impresses both vocally and guitar-wise. Featuring yet another very impressive solo , it also shows he can play deep in the pocket when necessary.
The album ends on a high note with the instrumental acoustic guitar piece "Four Graces". Featuring blindingly fast fingerpicking, it's bound to draw comparisons to Joe Bonamassa's "Woke Up Dreaming". The fact that it can hold its own against that composition speaks volumes concerning the quality of the fretwork on display, and if there be any doubts prior regarding the talent McGarvey possesses as a player, this proves it so in a convincing fashion.
Production on the album is absolutely stellar. Recorded and mixed at Santa Fe, New Mexico's Frogville Studios by McGarvey and Bill Palmer, subsequently mastered to perfection by Brian Lucey (The Black Keys, Dr. John, Oli Brown, The Shins) the sound is top notch all the way through. Much more a full fledged rock rather than a typical blues album production, the bass is punchy yet still retaining instrument definition. Dense but at the same time articulate, this is a release which should be listened to on a high end audio system rather than earbuds on an iPod or cheap computer speakers in order to truly appreciate the tonal qualities and sonic nuances on display.
Quickly becoming one of the most adept practitioners of the genre, McGarvey's brand of uncompromising high-octane guitar driven Blues-Rock, combined with extremely strong songwriting and evocative lyrics are certain to have him favorably compared with the greats Only time will tell whether this album will be considered a classic or not - but one thing is certain : In a year which has already seen fine releases from Lance Lopez, Walter Trout, Oli Brown, Philip Sayce etc. and will soon see yet another release by Joe Bonamassa, 'Redefined' is sure to rank amongst the top albums of the year.
As guitar wizard Chris Duarte recently remarked from the stage after jamming with McGarvey, "He's the next young lion out there. He's the total package, and it's not going to be long". Based on the evidence presented on this album, that time is now. Highly recommended. For more info on Ryan McGarvey go to this location. ( 'Redefined', the new album from Ryan McGarvey is due out May 2012 in Europe, June 2012 in North America.)
"Starry Night" from the album 'Redefined', live Albuquerque, New Mexico April 2012
"If 6 Was 9/Little Wing" live Albuquerque, New Mexico April 2012
On April 14th, 2012 in Cleveland, Ohio for the induction of the late, great blues guitarist Freddie King into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame, ZZ Top members Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill were joined onstage by guitarists Derek Trucks and Joe Bonamassa for a jam which included King's classics "Goin' Down" and the instrumental "Hideaway".
King, who passed away at the age of 42 in December 1976, had a twenty-year recording career and became established as an influential guitarist with hits for Federal Records in the early 1960s. He has inspired American musicians such as Duane Allman, Jerry Garcia, Stevie Ray Vaughan and his brother Jimmie Vaughan, Johnny Winter and others. His influence was also felt in the UK, through recordings by blues revivalists such as Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Peter Green, John Mayall the late Irish guitarist Rory Gallagher and many, many more. Latter day disciples of King include the aforementioned Joe Bonamassa, Texas based guitarist Buddy Whittington, and the late Jeff Healey.
Here is fan produced video of that performance, live at the 27th Annual Rock And Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at Public Hall in Cleveland, Ohio :
Jim Manngard, Ritchie Blackmore’s long-time guitar technician, sound tech, and personal assistant since 1985, led the decision by three-judge panel in declaring this years’ winner. Along with Manngard, rounding out the three-judge panel was second-year judge Andy DiGelsomina, the composer-guitarist for the Wagnerian opera metal project Lyraka, and Keith Langerman, owner of Nightwatcher’s House of Rock blog.
Says Manngard, “Matteo’s composition had a good vibrato and picking technique that combined the elements of Classical, Blues, Hard Rock, Baroque, Medieval, and Renaissance – very reminiscent of Ritchie’s playing style (throughout his career). The riff grooved. The solo and outro had a good, tasty feel to it. I liked the ‘vibe’ and the ‘attack’ along with the delicate work of picking and inflection.”
DeGelsomina added, “He not only followed the rules (of the contest), but great playing, especially in the second half of the video, where he got more creative.”
Langerman ended with, “Matteo’s Bizzarri’s 'Blackmoresque Medley' exemplified best the spirit of Ritchie’s playing, which has been a hallmark throughout his career.”
The top prize is a plaque with the person’s name, city and country of origin, and the current year.
The competition is hosted by the Official Induct Ritchie Blackmore Into The Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame organization. organization. Check them out on Facebook.
Voodoo Highway says: “Thank you all for the huge support, and obviously to Jim Manngard (Blackmore’s guitar tech), Andy DiGelsomina and Keith Langerman for choosing the Voodoo Highway’s trademark.”
Here is Matteo's winning entry "Blackmoresque Medley" :
For more info on Matteo and Voodoo Highway go to this location.
On May 22, 2012, internationally renowned blues rock guitar titan Joe Bonamassa will release a brand new solo album Driving Towards The Daylight via J&R Adventures. His 13th album was produced by Kevin “Caveman” Shirley (Black Crowes, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin). This is their seventh collaboration in six years.
Recorded at Studio At The Palms in Las Vegas, NV, The Village Recorder in Los Angeles, CA and The Cave in Malibu, CA, Driving Towards The Daylight is a balanced back-to-basics album that highlights Bonamassa’s signature style of roots blues with rock-and-roll guts, while honoring the traditions of the original blues musicians. “We’ve taken some really traditional old blues songs – the Howlin’ Wolf song ‘Who’s Been Talkin’?’ and the Robert Johnson song ‘Stones In My Passway,’ and we’ve tried to imagine how they would do them in a rock context,” said Shirley. “It’s a very exciting return to the blues in a very visceral way. It’s vibrant and it’s gutsy and it’s really, really rugged.”
To challenge Joe and move him out of his comfort zone, a unique group of musicians was gathered including Aerosmith guitarist Brad Whitford (guitar), Blondie Chaplain (guitar), Anton Fig (drums and percussion), Arlan Schierbaum (keyboard), Michael Rhodes (bass), Carmine Rojas (bass), Jeff Bova and The Bovaland Brass, Pat Thrall (guitar), and Brad’s son Harrison Whitford (guitar).
Brad Whitford, speaking from the studio in Vegas, said, “This is definitely more influenced by the stuff that the guys and musicians in this room love, early ‘60s English and American rock and blues. I guess we’ll never get that out of our system and its fun to come in here and find our own path down that highway.”
The album features four Bonamassa-penned originals including the bruising opener “Dislocated Boy,” the road warrior title track (and first single) “Driving Towards The Daylight,” “Heavenly Soul,” and “Somewhere Trouble Don’t Go.” Other tracks include Bonamassa’s versions of Tom Waits’ “New Coat Of Paint,” “Lonely Town Lonely Street,” by Bill Withers (Lean On Me, Ain’t No Sunshine), “A Place In My Heart” by Bernie Marsden of Whitesnake (Here I Go Again), and “I Got All You Need,” by Willie Dixon, widely considered the “father of modern Chicago blues.” On the album closer, Australian rock singer Jimmy Barnes sings lead vocals on his 1987 hit "Too Much Ain't Enough Love."
According to Billboard.com, Jay Bulger's documentary on legendary Cream/Blind Faith drummer Ginger Baker called Beware Of Mr. Baker won the Documentary Grand Jury prize Tuesday night (March 13) at the South by Southwest film awards, but where it might screen next is under wraps.
"We have been accepted to a bunch of festivals, but they have told us not to tell anyone," Fisher Stevens, one of three producers on the film, said on Sunday, the day after Saturday's world premiere screening.
The film will screen one last time in in Austin, on March 16 at the Paramount. "We hope there will be a lot of musicians in the audience," Stevens says, figuring that's a key audience for providing word of mouth marketing.
Rush's Neil Peart, Eric Clapton, The Sex Pistols' Johnny Rotten, Carlos Santana and The Rolling Stones' Charlie Watts appear in the film.
Each entry must feature the guitarist playing a Blackmore-esque lead guitar arrangement over a backing that is similarly in a Deep Purple, Rainbow, and/or Blackmore's Night vein way. No actual covers of Blackmore's lead guitar solos or songs will be allowed into the competition.
Andy DiGelsomina, the composer-guitarist for the Wagnerian opera metal project Lyraka will be judging the competition again, along with Keith Langerman, the owner of Nightwatcher's House of Rock and Jim Manngard.
The top prize will be announced on April 14th - Ritchie's 67th birthday. The winner will be awarded a plaque with the person's name, country of origin, and current year.
For more info visit the contest Facebook page. This competition is hosted by the Official Induct Ritchie Blackmore Into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame organization.
Legendary American rock guitarist Ronnie Montrose died yesterday(Saturday, March 3) after a five-year battle with prostate cancer. He was 64 years old.
Montrose's official web site has been updated with the following message:
"A few months ago, we held a surprise party for Ronnie Montrose's 64th birthday. He gave an impromptu speech, and told us that after a long life, filled with joy and hardship, he didn't take any of our love for granted.
"He passed today. He'd battled cancer, and staved off old age for long enough. And true to form, he chose his own exit the way he chose his own life. We miss him already, but we're glad to have shared with him while we could."
In a September 2011 interview with North County Times, Montrose revealed that he didn't pick up his guitar for two years following his cancer diagnosis. "I had prostate cancer that, for me, was debilitating," he said. "I didn't touch a guitar for two years, but when I realized I was seeing the light at the end of the recovery tunnel and was going to live pain-free, I realized again that it was a fun little instrument to play."
He added, "I've blocked all my health issues out of my mind. That's a portion of my life that I'm done with. Now, I can't wait for every day to come so I can wake up and plug in. I'm up there entertaining myself and my playing is stronger than ever, because my excitement is back."
Ronnie Montrose always followed his heart. Ever anxious to take his music to the next level, in 1979 he founded the trailblazing band Gamma, a group whose trio of ahead-of-their-time albums were an explosion of guitar and synthesizer pyrotechnics anchored by a bluesy edge.
Between and beyond these band forays, Montrose the player devoted himself to exploring instrumental guitar music on landmark albums like "Open Fire" and "The Speed Of Sound". Fans periodically clamored for another taste of the original Montrose power trio format, but he wouldn't revisit Montrose — that huge, heavy sound; those rich, pealing riffs — until the time came when he could do it with total conviction.
Besides his work with Montrose and Gamma, the band he formed with vocalist Davey Pattison in 1979, Montrose also performed with a variety of musicians, including Sammy Hagar, Herbie Hancock, Van Morrison, The Beau Brummels, Boz Scaggs, Beaver & Krause, Gary Wright, Tony Williams, The Neville Brothers, Dan Hartman, Edgar Winter and Johnny Winter.
Montrose "Rock Candy" 1973
Ronnie Montrose Live In New York City 1978 "Town Without Pity"
Detroit Michigan has a long standing tradition of producing great hard rock and roll bands. The rough and tumble nature of the Motor City has seen numerous bands make it huge on the international scene.
From Ted Nugent's Amboy Dukes, The MC5, Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels, Alice Cooper, Bob Seger, Grand Funk Railroad (from not too far away Flint, Michigan), Iggy Pop and The Stooges in the mid to late 60's all the way to The White Stripes, and more recently The Muggs and The Detroit Cobras have all made their mark on heavy music throughout the past five decades.
While they are still apparently in the formative stage, with no album released as of this writing, Tripp 'N Dixie, from the small Detroit suburb of Clarkston are apparently starting to make waves in their local scene, garnering positive reviews opening up for larger acts such as The Parlor Mob, Taddy Porter and Saving Abel with their guitar driven retro hard rock influenced music.
Although there isn't much info provided on their online bio, simply stating they are a "Four-piece Rock 'N' Roll group influenced by classic rock and blues with a modern edgy vibe", their music speaks for itself. Not too dissimilar to what rising stars in the making Rival Sons have produced on their excellent sophomore offering 'Pressure & Time', if they keep on the path they're going they very well may prove to have their own fervent following in the not too distant future. For more info on the band go to this location.
Following a successful 2011 that saw Texas blues rocker Lance Lopez tour all over North America and Europe, Lance is back with his new album and follow up to the critically acclaimed 'Salvation From Sundown'. 'Handmade Music' is scheduled for release on March 6th in North America via MIG Music.
The sessions for 'Handmade Music' took place in late June at Ardent Studios in Memphis, Tennessee. Lance worked with famed producer Jim Gaines (Santana, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble, George Thorogood and the Destroyers), engineer Pete Matthews (ZZ Top, Evanesence) and assistant engineer Adam Hill (The White Stripes, Raconteurs) on the recordings.
Lopez spoke at length about the recording process of 'Handmade Music': "Working with Jim Gaines at Ardent Studios in Memphis, Tennessee again was amazing! Ardent is a very special place where ZZ Top recorded about 5 records, Led Zeppelin recorded some of Zeppelin II there and Jimmy Page mixed Led Zeppelin III there as well. As a matter of fact we recorded in the same room ZZ Top recorded "Sharp Dressed Man", "Cheap Sunglasses" and most of their biggest hits using the same console. George Thorogood also recorded "Bad To The Bone" in there! 'Handmade Music' was the last album to be recorded in the original room that all the other legendary bands had recorded in the way it was when they were there working."
"As soon as we were finished they totally remodeled the room. It was great to be the one to finalize a legacy in that Studio. So the place just had vibes all in the walls! Having all those vibes together with our team of legendary producer/engineer Jim Gaines who worked with Stevie Ray Vaughan, Steve Miller and Santana and engineers Pete Matthews who worked with ZZ Top and Adam Hill who worked with the White Stripes, was a magical combination!! There is not only vibes at Ardent but also there in Memphis as well. We finished the last album Salvation From Sundown at Ardent and I knew when it came time to do Handmade Music we had to do it all at Ardent. Handmade Music has more of a good old rockin' vibe and we had a lot of fun cutting the tracks there in Memphis. It has some of the best guitar tones I've ever recorded and the band sounds amazing on the new record as well."
"We road tested a lot of the material for about 6 months all over the world. But then after getting in the studio with Jim, who took and shaped and molded the songs even more, they are almost like completely new songs. Once we finished cutting basic tracks at Ardent we moved out to Jim Gaines' Bessy Blue Studio, which is in a 150 year old house in the country on the edge the Shiloh Civil War Battlefield in Stantonville, Tennessee and finished all the overdubs, vocals, and mixing. Jim mixed the album there himself. After he finished mixing the album, he told us it was the best record he's done at Bessy Blue, that made me feel very proud of this album! I truly feel it is some of my best recorded work to date. A majority of our live set now is the material from Handmade Music, every night the material gets better and better so please come out to a show and check it out…"
The album has been receiving rave reviews already upon its late 2011 European release due to Lopez's hard driving yet refined take on Texas blues rock. Consisting mainly of original compositions, it also contains two stellar cover versions, namely Robert Johnson's "Traveling Riverside Blues", and the Beck Bogert & Appice classic "Black Cat Moan".
Look for Lopez to be featured in an upcoming issue of Guitar World magazine, available at a newsstand near you.
The UK's Daily Mail is reporting that Irish rock and blues guitar legend Gary Moore passed away in February 2011 due to a heart attack brought on by the massive amount of alcohol consumed at the start of a holiday in Spain.
Moore, who was found dead in bed at a luxury hotel in the Costa del Sol had 380mg of alcohol per decilitre of blood in his system.
The legal limit for driving in the UK is 80mg of alcohol per decilitre of blood, while the amount associated with fatalities is 30mg.
The tests also revealed the 58 year old Moore had abused alcohol for years. No traces of any illegal drugs were found in his body.
Rock News Desk is reporting that Yes singer Benoit David reveals he’s been sacked over health problems – but the band didn’t tell him, leaving him to discover the news through a press interview.
David was hired after Yes sacked founding member Jon Anderson in 2008 over his own health issues. When the newcomer encountered voice trouble last year the outfit brought in Jon Davidson, originally as a temporary measure.
Now Benoit admits he discovered he won’t be back when he was reading a magazine. But he refuses to show any bitterness, and insists he’s “grateful” for the experience of fronting the band.
In an open letter to fans he explains: “The final three shows of last year’s European tour were cancelled due to my ill health. On my return to Canada I was advised to cease touring for the foreseeable future in order to avoid further damage to my voice.
“I had no alternative but to inform my fellow band members I was unable to confirm my ability for our forthcoming concerts in New Zealand, Australia and Japan.
“I did it with a heavy heart as I felt I was letting everyone down. The band members were very understanding and asked if I would mind being replaced for the April shows. I gave them my blessing. I was pleased to learn Jon would be my replacement – he is an accomplished musician with a fine voice.
“I subsequently learned from a band member’s interview that I had officially left Yes and that my departure was permanent.
“As this is the situation, everyone should know that I will be eternally grateful for the opportunity I was given, and very proud to have contributed to more than 200 concerts and to the Fly From Here and In The Present Live From Lyon albums.”
David adds his thanks to the band’s crew and management, and tells fans: “Please continue with your support of one of the world’s greatest bands: Yes.”
The singer hopes to continue his performing career later this year. His other band Mystery are set to release a new album soon.
Benefit Bugs, a special musical event and auction in honor of Bugs Henderson, will be held at the Palladium Ballroom, 1135 South Lamar Street in Dallas, Sunday, March 4, with doors opening at 1:00 p.m. Several friends and guitar legends, including Andy Timmons,Van Wilks, Lance Lopez, David Grissom, Paul Reed Smith and others have announced they will be playing together at Benefit Bugs to help Texas guitar legend, Bugs Henderson with his medical expenses and his fight against cancer. Tickets, priced from $25-$75, are now on sale at www.AXS.com, or charge by phone at 888-929-7849.
Bugs Henderson has been a Dallas-area blues music institution since moving there from Tyler, TX. He came to Dallas in order to join the scene of a bar called The Cellar in the early 1970s. From there he moved on to playing theatres and arenas, opening and playing with guitar icons including B.B. King, Freddie King, Ted Nugent, Johnny Winter, Roy Buchanan and Eric Clapton.
Many of the best blues guitarists, including Clapton and King would go see Henderson play as they viewed him as one of the best.
Guitar Player Magazine stated, "Bugs Henderson should be declared a national treasure."
All Music Guide says of Henderson's 1994 release 'Daredevils Of The Red Guitar', "This is the stuff guitar heroes are made of".
A partial list of the musicians who have signed up to play at Benefit Bugs follows:
1.The Forever Fabulous Chicken Hawks 2. Marc Benno 3. Ray Wylie Hubbard 4. Jimmy Wallace & The Stratoblasters 5. Smokin Joe Kubek 6. Johnny Hiland 7. Jr and The Journeyman featuring Kirby Kelly 8. Dave Millsap 9. Bill Ham 10. Rhett Butler 11. Paul Reed Smith 12. David Grissom 13. Quinten Hope 14. Anson Funderburgh 15. Maylee Thomas 16. Lance Lopez 17. Mouse and The Traps 18. Brady Mosher 19. Van Wilks 20. Danny Sanchez 21. Andy Timmons 22. Bo and Jim Frontal Lobotomy Boogie Band 23. Jamie Oldecker 24. Nitzinger 25. Mike Morgan 26. Mike Rhyner 27. Jason Elmore
Those who would like to make a donation may do so by going to PayPal and enter email address benefitbugs@gmail.com
In a statement released on his official website, founding Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward has issued an update regarding the current contract situation which the band is currently embroiled in regarding his participation in the upcoming reunion album and subsequent tour.
The statement, which also alludes to the grassroots Facebook effort 1,000,000 Black Sabbath fans say yes to Bill Ward, launched as a direct response to reports that Ward was being replaced for the aforementioned album and tour, is as follows :
"Dear Sabbath Fans,
I wanted to let you know where things are at, from my point of view, as of today, February 17, 2012.
As my statement of February 2, 2012 indicated, I have not declined to participate in the Sabbath album and tour. At the earliest opportunity, I am prepared to go to the U.K. and record, and later tour with the band.
Last week, we sent further communication to the attorney handling the negotiations to try to reach an agreement. At this time we are waiting to hear back. I remain hopeful for a “signable” contract and a positive outcome.
I want to thank everyone who has voiced and posted their opinions, thoughts, support and love through all media, including the newly constructed sites. I applaud your worldwide reaction in support of the original band. And speaking for myself, your intent and truth will always be respected.
While believing in your freedom for expression, keep in mind that Tony, Ozzy and Geezer are still my lifetime friends, and I cannot support comments with an objectifying or derogatory theme toward them or their various representatives.
Many thanks to all of you. You are truly phenomenal.
The impressive U.K success of blues rock guitar titan Joe Bonamassa seems to have rekindled a renewed interest in the genre by young musicians throughout the British Isles. Whether that be in an attempt to hit the charts or a genuine love for the music itself, it's a boon for those inclined towards soulful vocals and killer blues guitar licks in a rocking setting.
One of the latest to come crawling out of the woodwork are Manchester, England's Federal Charm, who have as of December released their first self titled EP. Consisting of 6 tracks, the offering is a strong, well produced effort which should please fans of the blues rock persuasion quite nicely. Gleaning influences from Led Zeppelin, Free, Hendrix, RATM, SRV, Black Country Communion, Glenn Hughes and others, based on this evidence this is a band whom quite possibly may be on to much bigger things in the not too distant future.
One can listen to the entire 6 track EP below :
Federal Charm performing "You've Gotta Give It Up" from the EP live at The Roadhouse in Manchester, England :
For more information on Federal Charm go to this location.
Gibson.com is reporting that Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger is following the likes of Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan and Sir Paul McCartney this month by playing a gig for President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle at the White House.
The Rolling Stones frontman is set to join artists including Jeff Beck, B.B. King, Keb’ Mo’ and Buddy Guy for an event celebrating the blues in the latest musical gathering featuring different musical genres at the White House, billed In Performance at the White House. The show, directed by Booker T. Jones of Booker T. and the M.G.’s, will take place on February 21 and be televised by PBS public television on February 27. The president also will deliver special remarks at the event. The concert will stream live at http://www.whitehouse.gov/live.
Los Angeles based singer Beth Hart has confirmed she will play the Isle of Wight festival on Sunday 24th June, alongside Bruce Springsteen, Joan Armatrading and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.
She headlines the London Shepherd’s Bush Empire on Saturday 25th February. Shepherds Bush will be Beth’s biggest UK headline concert to date.
Her latest album, “Don’t Explain”, released world wide last September via J&R Adventures is a collection of soul classics with blues rock guitar titan Joe Bonamassa. A limited edition of “Don’t Explain”, featuring 4 previously unheard acoustic tracks, will be released on February 20th by Provogue Records. Hart's new single, “Sister Heroine”, features Slash (Guns N Roses/Velvet Revolver).
To read a recent interview conducted with Hart detailing 'Don't Explain' go to this location.
Beth Hart "Sister Heroine" (featuring Slash)
Beth Hart appearing with Joe Bonamassa at The Beacon Theatre November 5, 2011
Classic Rock magazine is reporting that although the late guitar wizard Tommy Bolin passed away at the age of 25 in 1976, a new album is set for release out March 26. 'Great Gypsy Soul' features features outtakes and alternate versions of his solo material, with current musicians playing and singing along to Bolin’s own guitar and vocal recordings. The high profile list includes contributions from Peter Frampton, Joe Bonamassa, Warren Haynes, Steve Lukather, Glenn Hughes, Brad Whitford, Derek Trucks and many others,
Here’s the track listing for the CD:
The Grind (with Peter Frampton) Teaser (Warren Haynes) Dreamer (Myles Kennedy, Nels Cline) Savannah Woman (John Scofield) Smooth Fandango (Derek Trucks) People, People (Big Sugar and Gordie Johnson) Wild Dogs (Brad Whitford) Homeward Strut (Steve Lukather) Sugar Shack (Glenn Hughes and Sonny Landreth) Crazed Fandago (Steve Morse) Lotus (with Joe Bonamassa, Glenn Hughes, Nels Cline)
There’s also a deluxe edition, with the following tracks on a bonus CD:
Flying Fingers (Oz Noy and Nels Cline) Marching Bag – Movement One (Nels Cline, Tommy Bolin, Greg Hampton, John Scofield, Sonny Landreth) Marching Bag – Movement Two (Nels Cline, Tommy Bolin, Steve Lukather, Derek Trucks, Peter Frampton) Marching Bag – Movement Three (Gordie Johnson, Tommy Bolin, Nels Cline, Oz Noy, Steve Lukather, Steve Morse, Joe Bonamassa) Marching Bag – Movement Four (Nels Cline, Tommy Bolin, Warren Haynes, Joe Bonamassa, Oz Noy, Brad Whitford, Peter Frampton)
Rumors were swirling around the Internet today suggesting that Black Sabbath have replaced original drummer Bill Ward with Tommy Clufetos from the Ozzy Osbourne band. These rumors have not been confirmed by the band or management. However fans are rallying around Ward and have launched a new Facebook page dubbed 1,000,000 Black Sabbath Fans Say Yes To Bill Ward. https://www.facebook.com/pages/1000000-Black-Sabbath-fans-say-yes-to-Bill-Ward/387229524625706
Black Sabbath recently moved writing sessions for their long-awaited reunion album from Los Angeles to Birmingham, England due to guitarist Tony Iommi's treatment for lymphoma. Drummer Bill Ward is currently in a public battle with his old mates "unless a “signable contract is drawn up" he stated recently and has refused to join the rest of the band.
The remaining trio (Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler) responded by saying that "we have no choice but to continue recording without him although our door is always open. We are still in the UK with Tony. Writing and recording the new album and on a roll."
Black Sabbath (with Ward) "Children Of The Grave" live at the California Jam 1974
Sony Music in association with Capo Records and Legacy are proud to re-issue the first six original Rory Gallagher albums in chronological release date order – “Rory Gallagher” (1971), “Deuce” (1971), “Live In Europe!” (1972), “Blueprint” (1973), “Tattoo” (1973) and “Irish Tour ’74” (1974). These seminal re-issued albums celebrate 40 years since the start of Rory’s solo career.
Rory Gallagher was a musician like no other. He was, and still is, one of the world’s greatest guitarists, singers, song writers and live showmen. His music lives on through generations of today’s hottest guitarists including Slash, Joe Bonamassa, Brian May, Johnny Marr and The Edge; and also through his amazing catalogue including some of his finest works included in this collection of releases, his first six albums.
These milestone albums were released during Rory's most prolific years (1971-74), when he recorded and produced 6 albums in a 3 year period. Each of the albums is now re-released in digipack form, with artwork restored from the original first release cover art. The audio has been re-mastered from the original ¼” inch tapes. Each album includes exclusive sleeve notes written by Donal Gallagher; Rory’s brother and former tour manager, legendary photographer Mick Rock, and British journalist Roy Hollingworth.
As Daniel Gallagher, Rory’s Nephew and producer of the re-issues states, “It's fantastic that 40 years since the original release of these albums the interest in Rory's music is still so strong and vibrant that we can celebrate the man's music by re-issuing his first six classic solo albums. We've aimed to release them in the spirit of the original release by going back to the vinyl artwork and original 1/4" tapes so that they look and sound exactly as Rory intended. It's also great to see in a digital world that the demand for a physical copy of Rory's music means we can release these albums on vinyl for the first time in over 30 years.”
