Guitarist Joe Bonamassa Delivers A Performance Fit For A Blues King On 'Live From The Royal Albert Hall'

Joe Bonamassa
Live From The Royal Albert Hall (DVD)
J&R Adventures

Review by Nightwatcher


Once upon a time there was a four year old boy. And that boy had a dream. It was a dream unlike most boys have at that age, for this was not a dream of growing up to be a fireman, police officer, or any other dream typical of such a young child. This child's unique dream, inspired by seeing video of the farewell concert of Cream, was to be a guitarist - and to play London's prestigious Royal Albert Hall.

On May 4th of this year, that dream was finally realized as blues rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa - after 20 years of playing professionally since the age of 12, working his way up from playing sleazy dives and tiny blues clubs in the middle of nowhere in particular, relentlessly touring throughout the United States, Canada and Europe - stepped on the stage triumphantly in front of a sold out crowd at the historic venue,

It's this triumphant concert which is chronicled on the DVD 'Live From The Royal Albert Hall'. Commencing with shots of a slightly nervous Bonamassa warming up before hitting the stage, interspersed with interviews with family members who had naturally crossed over the big pond to witness a day self described as being "truly larger than the sum of its parts" and "the best day of his life" by the Utica, New York born musician, the set begins with a stirring version of the instrumental "Django" and never looks back.

Featuring a set list understandably heavy with material from his newest studio album 'The Ballad Of John Henry, there's still quite enough from his back catalog to serve as a great introduction to past work. Along the way we have the "Kashmir" meets the delta blues of "The Ballad Of John Henry", the blues shuffle "So, It's Like That" (replete with a horn section for the first time in a live situation), a minor blues via a stunning version of Otis Rush's classic "So Many Roads", the swampy "High Water Everywhere"(Quite effective with its utilization of two drummers for the occasion, the second being Anton Fig of "David Letterman" fame), and rounding out the first disc is a smoldering rendition of "Sloe Gin", the title track from Bonamassa's 2007 studio release which brings the proceedings to the intermission on yet another high note. If this were only a single disc, already it would be a success. But wait! There's more!

After beginning the second disc with a reminiscence of how he met King Of The Blues B.B. King at the age of 12, Bonamassa launches into a song that he wrote when he was 18, "Lonesome Road Blues". Although he only recently rediscovered the track via an old DAT, the song works in its modern incarnation perfectly alongside compositions of more recent vintage. "Happier Times" a song born from one of the worst periods in his life following a breakup, stuns with its honesty. Laying his soul out in the open in the lyrics, this is the most personal of perhaps all the songs he has written, and ranks certainly among his very best.

After another guest spot by former Manfred Mann vocalist Paul Jones, one of the guitarist's most ardent U. K. supporters, lending blues harp to Sonny Boy Williamson's "Your Funeral, My Trial" and a grinding take on the Jeff Beck Group classic "Blues Deluxe", the assembled multitude are treated to yet another pair of original offerings "Story Of A Quarryman" and the "The Great Flood", all leading up to the trifecta knock down punch of ZZ Top's "Just Got Paid"(featuring the excerpt from Led Zeppelin's "Dazed and Confused, complete with Theramin), the epic "Mountain Time" and ensuring a splendid time is guaranteed for all, the soulful, Ray Charles influenced "Asking Around For You".

Such are the strength of the original compositions that even without a special guest appearance by Eric Clapton, who trades licks with Bonamassa on the Bobby "Blue" Bland classic "Further On Up The Road" this would be a fantastic performance. However with Eric coming onboard, it does signify a passing of the blues rock torch symbolically. For just as the pioneering British guitar legend took the blues in uncharted directions in the 60's, Joe has the talent to do so in the next decade.

Only 32, with a willingness to experiment and deviate from what's considered sacred in the blues canon, and a desire not to repeat himself, it would seem that artistically it's still an open book for him, and it will be intriguing to see where he goes in the next decade. In an interesting side note, the next time the song was played by Bonamassa and band with a guest performer it was at the Mile High Blues Festival in Denver, with young up and coming guitarist Ryan McGarvey. One of the leading proponents of young players who are now being influenced by the musician, his endorsement and patronage of fledgling guitar stars is continuing the blues lineage even further on up the road, if you will.

As fantastic as Bonamassa's guitar work and vocals are, it would be extremely remiss to not give notice to the other members of the band. For without bassist Carmine Rojas and drummer Bogie Bowles this would be a one man band first of all. Secondly, over the past several years of almost non stop touring, these two have meshed into one of the finest rhythm sections in all of rock or blues, interlocking and forming a rock solid foundation over which the guitarist can shine. Add in keyboardist Rick Melick and you have an extremely potent combo indeed. The addition of Melick it has allowed him to breathe a bit, musically speaking. No longer does he have to fill all the space with his playing, resulting in when he does launch into a solo it's more focused and therefore even more effective.

Beautifully filmed by Scott McFadyen and Sam Dunn, who are also responsible for the recently released critically acclaimed 'Iron Maiden: Flight 666' documentary and 2005's 'Metal: A Headbanger's Journey'. this isn't your usual blues presentation, and is all the better for it. Used to the high energy world of metal, the pair have succeeded in capturing Bonamassa's incendiary performance perfectly, infusing it with vitality on par with the execution of musicianship. As such blues purists will probably hate this, but it's a situation he's had to deal with from the very start, and won't come as a surprise this time around as well.

Audio -wise, this absolutely shines. Recorded and mixed by über producer Kevin Shirley, whose guiding hand has been an integral part of getting Bonamassa to the level he is at today during the past half decade, he has accurately captured the true essence of this live performance. Drawing on his expertise throughout the years working with Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, Iron Maiden and countless others, the mix conveys the excitement of what it's like to see the guitarist live.

In terms of of bonus features, what you get here is an extended interview with Bonamassa, where he goes into details regarding why and how the songs were chosen, and also what they mean to him. In lieu of a full commentary track, this works quite well. In all actuality, not many would listen to a commentary more than once anyway (if that in many cases), so to have something of this nature in interview form outside of the main program is a wise choice.

Also included is a bonus performance of the acoustic guitar extravaganza "Woke Up Dreaming", during which the guitarist demonstrates once again his prodigious talents aren't only contained in the blues rock genre, but extend to any genre. Having seen him play anything from heavy rock, jazz to fleet fingered workouts such as this on many occasions, it's quite clear that not only is he one of the top blues guitarists ever, but one must rank him amongst the finest ever to pick up the instrument. The fact that he brings such technique to the blues, in lesser hands, could be a disaster. But Bonamassa has tempered his fretwork to a degree where he never overplays. While not as wild as his earlier live offerings in terms of notes played, there's still more than enough blues guitar pyrotechnics lighting up the stage, soaring as high as fireworks on the 4th of July (Or Guy Fawkes Day, if you reside in the U.K.).

The two discs of this DVD are a stunning encapsulation of all of the elements which have combined musically to bring Bonamassa to this point in his career. Hands down the most exciting performer to come along in the blues field in decades, the guitarist stands head and shoulders above his contemporaries. First rate all the way - unquestionably the guitar DVD of the year, once again he's raising the bar for how the blues can be presented.

With the holidays upon us, if you're looking for an excellent gift for that someone who loves blues, rock or exceptional guitar playing, if you haven't already, grab this one as you can't go wrong. To purchase go to this location.

Allman Brothers Museum Opens In Macon Georgia

Macon.com is reporting when Kirk and Kirsten West decided to move out of their Vineville Avenue home in 2003, the notion of turning it into a museum certainly wasn’t on their radar.

Sure, thousands of visitors from places as far away as Germany, Italy, Japan and Australia had knocked on their door during the decade they had lived there, trying to get a glimpse of what was known as The Big House, where members of the Allman Brothers Band lived in the early 1970s.

It was only after Kirk West — the band’s road manager — was meeting with an interested buyer for the property one night when the man suggested that West start a nonprofit foundation and turn The Big House into a museum.

This weekend, that seed of an idea finally becomes a reality, four decades after the band’s founding.

After five years of fundraising and two years of renovations, the museum is scheduled to open its doors on a limited basis for the rest of the year before a formal grand opening in early 2010.

“At times, I’ve tried to be practical about it, but seeing it come to fruition ...” said Kirsten West, her voice trailing off as she broke into a wide grin. “It’s a tribute to the band, but equally it’s a tribute to the fans who believed that we could do it.”

Kirsten West, the foundation’s managing director, said that to date, The Big House Foundation has taken in about $2.5 million in donations from all over the United States.

In addition, the museum also has received donated materials to refurbish the house and many hours of volunteer labor to renovate it.

“Probably 60 percent (of the renovation) has been donated labor and materials,” said Greg Potter, president of the Georgia Allman Brothers Band Association, who also has donated his own time to help get the house in shape. “We had a roofer come in from New York, donated all the materials and put the roof in, and all it cost us was a week’s worth of hotel rooms.”

In the early 1970s, when the band was getting its start in Macon, bassist Berry Oakley’s wife, Linda — whom everyone called “Big Linda” — was searching for a more permanent home and happened upon the Tudor-styled house at 2321 Vineville Ave. by way of a newspaper ad.

Though the house was more expensive than the Oakleys would have liked, Big Linda fell in love with the place, and they moved in with Duane Allman and his family.

The house became the band’s unofficial headquarters, a place to hang out, to party and to play music.

During a recent visit, E.J. Devokaitis, the museum’s co-curator, pointed to a window in what used to be the living room.

“That’s where (former guitarist) Dickey Betts wrote ‘Blue Sky,’’’ he said. “The line in the song, ‘Good old Sunday morning, bells are ringing everywhere,’ that was from that church across the street. It’s still there.”

There are dozens of little nuggets like that as a visitor moves through each room of the house.

That living room now serves as home for various posters, gold records and a huge Steve Penley portrait of Duane. The other side of the front of the house — the rooms where the band often practiced — is home to various photos and awards the band won.

An interior room contains a wide range of memorabilia, including instruments from several band members — Oakley’s Hummingbird acoustic guitar, Gregg Allman’s Hammond B-3 electric organ, a prototype for Duane’s signature Gibson guitar, a drum kit from Butch Trucks — as well as cases full of handwritten song lyrics, concert tickets, contracts, checks and more. In one corner, there’s a life-size portrait of the band during a rehearsal for 1971’s famed “Fillmore East” concert.

In an interior hallway, there’s an exhibit for the band Gov’t Mule, which also had its origins at The Big House and whose members Warren Haynes and the late Allen Woody were later guitarist and bassist, respectively, for the Allman Brothers Band.

On the second floor, where the bedrooms were located, the bedroom of Candace Oakley — Berry’s sister — is a display room for more artwork. Big Linda is redecorating what was Duane’s bedroom to show what it looked like when the band lived in the house.

One of the most interesting rooms on that floor is a tiny room that Duane used as a nursery for his daughter, Galadrielle. The room has been soundproofed and will serve a place where fans can listen to Allman Brothers Band music. In addition, the room will eventually be equipped with a video camera so that fans can share their own memories of the band, Kirk West said. Those recollections will be compiled and become part of the museum’s permanent collection.

The house’s top floor, which served as a recreation room for the band, will be used for educational purposes and meetings, Kirsten West said. Some of the band members want to volunteer their time in the future to teach music to young children, she said. The room also can be rented out for corporate meetings. To read more go to this location.

Deep Purple Guitarist Steve Morse Releases New Studio Album

Deep Purple guitarist Steve Morse, through Eagle Rock Entertainment has released a new studio album by the Steve Morse Band, 'Out Standing In Their Field', released in the U.S. on November 17.

Morse, who got his start in the Dixie Dregs in the 1970s, has enjoyed a fruitful career, earning himself a reputation as a “musician’s musician.” He’s spent the last sixteen years shredding for the legendary Deep Purple, in addition to fronting his own band. The release of Out Standing In Their Field is the 12th album to date for The Steve Morse Band.

On this entirely instrumental album, Morse joins forces with bassist Dave LaRue and drummer Van Romaine to pound out un-tethered creativity. A multi-faceted blend of Morse’s influences, Out Standing In Their Field is a diverse sound spectrum, twisting together elements of rock, country, jazz, funk and classical. Unencumbered by lyrics, Morse’s guitar acts as a wailing, exploring siren, channeling emotion and raw power through the language of riffs. In addition to the ten brand new tracks boasted on Out Standing In Their Field, the band threw in an extra treat: a live recording of their song “Rising Power.” This bonus track invokes the goosebump-inducing power the Steve Morse Band conjures on stage.

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Jimi Hendrix Has Greatest Guitar Riff Ever According To Poll

On what would have been his 67th birthday, November 27th, Jimi Hendrix's 'Voodoo Child (Slight Return)' has been voted as having the best guitar riff ever in a poll conducted by music website MusicRadar.com.

Jimi Hendrix's 'Voodoo Child (Slight Return)' has been voted as having the best guitar riff of all time.

The 1968 track beat Guns N' Roses classic 'Sweet Child O'Mine' - which topped the poll five years ago - to the top spot in the poll by website MusicRadar,com, with 'Whole Lotta Love' by Led Zeppelin coming third.

Just two songs from the past decade made the list; Muse's 2001 hit 'Plug In Baby' at 11 and The White Stripes' 'Seven Nation Army', which was released in 2003, at 15.

MusicRadar.com's editor-in-chief Mike Goldsmith said: "Nearly 40 years after his untimely death, Jimi Hendrix is still the undisputed heavyweight champion of rock guitar.

"Of the current generation of six-string stars, only Jack White of The White Stripes and Muse frontman Matt Bellamy feature in the higher echelons of our list. No surprise given both Bellamy and White share - or have inherited - Hendrix's unique blend of experimental instincts and white-knuckle showmanship.

"Above all though, our poll seems to indicate one thing - in 2009, classic rock still rules."

Deep Purple's 'Smoke on the Water' and Derek and the Dominos' 'Layla' - which features Eric Clapton on guitar - made up the rest of the top five, with AC/DC, Metallica, The Beatles, Nirvana and The Rolling Stones also featuring in the top ten.

More than 5,000 MusicRadar.com users took part in the poll.

Greatest Guitar Riffs of All Time according to MusicRadar.com top 20:

1. The Jimi Hendrix Experience - 'Voodoo Child (Slight Return)'

2. Guns N' Roses - 'Sweet Child O' Mine'

3. Led Zeppelin - 'Whole Lotta Love'

4. Deep Purple - 'Smoke On The Water'

5. Derek and the Dominos - 'Layla'

6. AC/DC - 'Back In Black'

7. Metallica - 'Enter Sandman'

8. The Beatles - 'Day Tripper'

9. Nirvana - 'Smells Like Teen Spirit'

10. The Rolling Stones - '(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction'

11. Black Sabbath - 'Paranoid'

12. Muse - 'Plug In Baby'

13.Van Halen - 'Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love'

14. The Kinks - 'You Really Got Me'

15. The White Stripes - 'Seven Nation Army'

16. AC/DC - 'Highway to Hell'

17. Led Zeppelin - 'Heartbreaker'

18. Black Sabbath - 'Iron Man'

19. Led Zeppelin - 'Black Dog'

20. Michael Jackson - 'Beat It'

The Rolling Stones Planning World Tour In 2010

The Rolling Stones, whose last tour finished in 2007, are planning a mammoth run of shows next year, according to Ronnie Wood's cocktail waitress girlfriend Ekaterina Ivanova.

The 20-year-old Russian waitress – who has been dating 62-year-old Ronnie since he walked out on his 23-year marriage to Jo Wood in July 2009 - has been a little indiscreet in letting the world know about their plans.

A source told Britain’s The Sun newspaper: "She's not supposed to talk about it, things haven't been finalized but she couldn't resist telling a few friends."

Ronnie recently admitted he had been in touch with his Rolling Stones bandmates Sir Mick Jagger and Charlie Watts and insisted everything was 'great' between them, despite rumors he could be fired from the group because of his partying lifestyle.

Ronnie James Dio Diagnosed With Stomach Cancer

Legendary heavy metal singer Ronnie James Dio has been diagnosed with stomach cancer, his wife has said.

Writing on his official website, Wendy Dio said the former Rainbow and Black Sabbath singer was in the early stages of the illness.

Mrs Dio added he was starting treatment immediately and would be back on stage after "he kills this dragon".

Dio, 67, had to cancel his band's European tour last week after he became unwell and was taken to hospital.

"Ronnie has been diagnosed with the early stages of stomach cancer. We are starting treatment immediately at the Mayo Clinic," Mrs Dio said.

"After he kills this dragon, Ronnie will be back on stage, where he belongs, doing what he loves best, performing for his fans."

Mrs Dio also thanked fans for their well wishes, adding: "This has really helped to keep his spirit up."

Dio first achieved recognition singing with his own band Elf before joining Rainbow in 1975.

He later replaced Ozzy Osbourne in Black Sabbath in 1979 for three years.

He is currently working on a project with former Black Sabbath bandmates Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Vinny Appice, under the name Heaven & Hell.

We wish Ronnie a full and speedy recovery!

Producer Kevin Shirley : Supergroup Idea With Page, Clapton, Perry /Whitford "Total Codswallop"

Yesterday Led Zeppelin fan-site Lemon Squeezings reported that Aerosmith guitarists Joe Perry and Brad Whitford have apparently been keeping busy with Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin) in a recording studio with engineer Kevin Shirley (Led Zeppelin, Iron Maiden, Joe Bonamassa). About the supposed "supergroup" project, Shirley has addressed the rumors:

"There's no supergroup planned with fifty guitarists recording, I'm sorry. If you believed that, go on and blush. Over my long career I have been very fortunate to work with some of the best in the world, and soon I'm going to record one of the pioneers. That's what's so exciting! But, as I said before, news when I can. The "supergroup" is just a four piece, and we have an exploratory recording session early next year. And that's all." And on his Facebook page, Shirley added that the whole idea was "Total Codswallop".

Phoenix Rises From The Ashes With Reissue Of Classic Albums

One of rock's lost classic bands Phoenix, featuring ex-Argent members John Verity, Bob Henrit and Jim Rodford, rises once again with a CD release by premier reissue label Renaissance Records, in conjunction with itsaboutmusic.com.

A power trio with a style akin to Grand Funk, Boston, Starcastle and Argent, the short-lived band released two critically acclaimed albums 'Phoenix' and 'In Full View'. Both albums have been painstakingly remastered from the master tapes to insure ultimate sound quality, making this the definitive CD reissue (both albums are available on one CD).

In 1973 Rod Argent was looking for new lead vocalist for Argent following the departure of Russ Ballard. John Verity eventually joined Argent later that year and there followed a period of intense recording and touring until the band decided to retire from the road in 1976. It was during Argent's final tour of America that lead vocalist/ guitarist John Verity, drummer Bob Henrit, and bassist Jim Rodford decided to form a new band. The Argent split was amicable and out of its ashes arose Phoenix. A management deal was struck with Trident in London, who also had a studio in London's West End where many major artists recorded, including The Beatles. "Our intrepid 'Power Trio' was very soon burning the midnight oil, recording tracks for their first album; now under the watchful eye of CBS Records," recalled Verity.

The new band was orginally to be called 'H.R.V' - Henrit, Rodford, Verity. The album title was to be along the lines of: 'HRV like a Phoenix rising from the ashes of Argent' but the record company and the media soon latched onto the name 'Phoenix' so the band quickly changed the name. The album was released in 1976 and the band was soon touring Europe as special guests to headliners 'Aerosmith'. A second album recorded for CBS remains unreleased although a couple of singles, including a version of 'Time of the Season', were issued. 'In Full View' was the third and final Phoenix album recorded for Charisma Records without Jim Rodford who had left to join The Kinks. At this time the band also recorded a number of Russ Ballard songs including the original version of 'I Surrender', which subsequently became a hit for Rainbow.

Phoenix eventually turned into the band Charlie for one album on RCA records: 'Good Morning America' before Bob joined Jim in The Kinks and John Verity turned to record production and working on a solo album: 'Interrupted Journey' which featured Bob Henrit on drums. Never far apart, the pair were soon working together playing heavy blues/rock as the John Verity Band. Since then, in addition to his work with the Band, John has been gigging and working in recording studios throughout the world, producing, playing guitar, or singing with acts including Motorhead, Tank, Ringo Starr, Russ Ballard, Colin Blunstone, Mike Berry, Dave Berry, Brian Connolly, John Parr, John Coghlan, The Searchers, Mike Rutherford (of Genesis), Keith Emerson, Greg Lake, Zombies, and Michael Schenker - just to mention a few.

http://www.phoenixrocks.eu/

Jimmy Page, Aerosmith's Joe Perry/Brad Whitford, Eric Clapton Involved In New Supergroup?

Led Zeppelin fan-site Lemon Squeezings is reporting that while nobody knows what's happening with Aerosmith, guitarists Joe Perry and Brad Whitford have apparently been keeping busy, and in good company too.

Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin) have joined them in recording with producer Kevin Shirley, the man behind the sound of Led Zeppelin's 21st century releases, How the West Was Won, DVD and the reissue of the soundtrack to The Song Remains The Same.

Shirley says he has been recording these guitarists and "many others." He hints toward some "high profile projects" about which he's been sworn to secrecy.

"Suffice it to say," offers the father of two infants, "that life is very busy."

Writing from Malibu on his online diary today, he spoke of a "supergroup" project - his term, not mine (I don't need the derision). He said that come January he would be "producing what has the promise to be one of the most exciting 'supergroups' to come around in a long time. But theory is just that until we see how the dynamics play out in the studio between these superb musicians. And of course the songs will make the real difference."

Classic John Mayall's Bluesbreakers With Eric Clapton Album Given Remastered 24 KT Gold Audiophile Release

Audio Fidelity has just given one of the most influential albums in blues rock history the audiophile, 24 KT gold compact disc treatment with the release of John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers' 1966 classic 'Bluesbreakers with Eric Clapton'.

Remastered in original mono from the original Decca LTD. master tapes, the recording was named # 195 on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time, and has been for over four decades a go to primer of British Blues for guitarists world wide.

The Bluesbreakers, led by singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist John Mayall, were formed in January 1963. Eric Clapton joined in 1965 just a few months after the release of their first album. It remains one of the key, seminal releases of the 1960s, and a highly influential record, as the sound of Clapton’s Les Paul through an overdriven Marshall stack provided inspiration to a whole generation of blues-based electric guitarists and groups. Clapton's incendiary playing inspired graffiti saying "Clapton is God" on the streets of London.

Much of the album is composed of blues standards by long-established blues artists such as Otis Rush, Freddie King and Robert Johnson, as well as a few originals penned by Mayall or Mayall and Clapton.

The majority of the songs serve as showcases for the 21 year old guitar virtuoso's playing, apart from "Another Man", "Ramblin' On My Mind", "Parchman Farm", and "What'd I Say". "Ramblin' On My Mind" was Clapton's very first recorded vocal performance.

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Them Crooked Vultures Planning Second Album

NME.com is reporting that Them Crooked Vultures have confirmed that they are to start work on their second album.

Despite their self-titled debut having only been released earlier this month, the three-piece say they are already thinking about its follow-up.

"I felt we've only just started to pick up steam. Why would we want to stop now?" singer Josh Homme told The Sun, while bassist John Paul Jones agreed. "We all know we have so much more in us yet," he said.

Dave Grohl said that "when we make our second record, it's going to be even more powerful than this one".

Meanwhile, Homme has said he doesn't like the band being labeled a 'supergroup'. "It's not that I hate that term," he said. "I just don't shave with it, I don't eat with it and it doesn't mean anything to me."

Ozzy Osbourne Says McCartney Refused To Work With Him

Rock Radio is reporting that Beatles legend Paul McCartney once refused to work with Ozzy Osbourne, the Black Sabbath singer says – and his negative reponse was actually a positive honor.

Osbourne tells Heat magazine that he was working in the studio next door to McCartney, and took the opportunity to ask him to collaborate.

He explains: “Meeting Paul McCartney was f’kin phenomenal. I was in the studio the same time as him so I tried to get him to play bass on one of my songs.

“He came in and listened, but he said he couldn’t improve on the bass line that was already there.

“I said, ‘Are you kidding? You could piss on the record and it would make my life!’”

Osbourne is currently working on a new album, having sacked guitarist Zakk Wylde in favor of Firewind axeman Gus G. Wylde recently joked about how the dismissal came about and is concentrating on looking after his health after being diagnosed with a rare blood disorder.

Gov't Mule's Warren Haynes Joins Deep Purple Onstage In Amsterdam

On November 17, Allman Brothers/Gov't Mule guitarist Warren Haynes joined legendary heavy rockers Deep Purple onstage for the classic "Black Night" in Amsterdam, Holland at the Heineken Music Hall, with Haynes and Purple guitarist Steve Morse trading licks. Here's fan produced footage of the jam :

The Gregg Rolie Band Conjure Up The Fire And Passion Of Early Santana On Live 'Rain Dance'

The Gregg Rolie Band
Rain Dance (Limited Edition)

Review by Nightwatcher

Forty years ago, in a muddy pasture, part of a dairy farm in the rural town of Bethel, New York, the original Santana band performed a show stopping set at the legendary Woodstock Music and Arts Festival. Stunning the 500,000 plus in attendance with their unique, visionary blend of heavy blues based guitar rock melded with Latin rhythms, it was one of the highlights of the event, serving to help catapult the young musical collective to instant stardom.

Four decades may have passed since that mercurial time, yet one of the main architects of that band's sound besides Carlos Santana is still going strong, as Gregg Rolie, original vocalist/keyboardist of that Santana band has with a new aggregation of musicians returned with a storming live set, recorded live at the 2007 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

Jammed full with early classics such as "Black Magic Woman", No One To Depend On", "Evil Ways", "Jingo", "Oye Como Va", an astounding 10 minute plus version of the song immortalized in the 'Woodstock' movie, "Soul Sacrifice" along with newer material from Rolie's critically acclaimed 2001 'Roots' album, they succeed in doing justice to all the material admirably.

Guitarist Kurt Griffey channels the feel of the original parts whilst still adding his own style, and the rest of the musicians cook throughout the 12 tracks included here. Also featuring founding Santana member Michael Carabello on Congas, Adrian Areas (son of original Santana percussionist Jose Chepito Areas) on Timbales, drummer Ron Wikso (who was also in The Storm), another Santana alumni in bassist Alphonso Johnson and former Jean Luc Ponty keyboardist Wally Minko, with players of this caliber, you can expect fine performances. The production values and mix allow all the instruments to breathe, resulting in a highly enjoyable listening experience throughout.

While Carlos has seemingly lost the desire in recent years to mine the heavy latin grooves and jazz inflections which graced the early albums in favor of pop duets with all star guests, this is an album and band which captures the spirit and fire perfectly. Close your eyes and you'll be excused in thinking that this is a long lost recording from the late 60's/early 70's, so true to the original vision this is. If you're a fan of the quintessential Santana sound, this is an offering you can't pass up. 10/10 http://www.greggrolie.com/

Aerosmith Bandmates Fear Steven Tyler Back On Drugs

Billboard.com is reporting that even as they contemplate working with another singer, Steven Tyler's Aerosmith bandmates say they're worried about their frontman's health and well being.

"Steven, he isolates more and more all the time -- that's what gives it away to me that there's something going on," drummer Joey Kramer tells Billboard.com. "I don't know what that is. I know he's made some not so great choices and he's got some negative influences around him now. I love the guy. I just want to see him get some help."

Kramer demures on discussing the specific rumors of substance abuse swirling around Tyler via online reports, but guitarist Brad Whitford acknowledges that "this guy has a tremendous history of drug abuse, and you have to be suspicious that this is something that's probably going on with him. I have a feeling we might be looking at someone who's just really struggling very badly." Whitford adds that Tyler's behavior in recent years "was becoming more erratic and unreasonable" leading to the singer's recent decision to take two years away from Aerosmith to focus on what he refers to as "brand Tyler."

Kramer and Whitford both say Tyler has become increasingly isolated from the rest of the band, hiring separate management and not communicating directly with anyone. "I have called him and left voice mails and texted him to no avail," says Kramer, who chronicles his complex, passive-aggressive relationship with Tyler in his new memoir "Hit Hard: A Story of Hitting Rock Bottom at the Top." "I get no reply. One of his biggest things is that, 'Well, nobody calls me.' Well, that's bullshit, 'cause I have. I've always been there for him and I probably always will be. I can only hope and pray that Steven will put the focus on Steven and get healthy."

Tyler's only public comment about the matter came on Nov. 10, when he made a surprise encore appearance at the Joe Perry Project's concert in New York City and announced that "I'm not leaving Aerosmith." The rest of the band, meanwhile -- including guitarist Perry and bassist Tom Hamilton -- is in daily communication and focusing on what it wants to do next.

The group does seem resolved in its decision to look for another singer to work with. Whitford predicts that while "no one can fill Steven Tyler's shoes," the selection process will come down to "people that we know or are friends that we think might consider doing it." Sharing names "wouldn't be prudent right now," according to the guitarist, but he says that "hopefully we'll do something creative and push the boundaries of what we do, maybe make some new music, not just go out there and be, like, an Aerosmith cover band."

Even the band name is up for grabs, as fan sentiment online is running decidedly against using Aerosmith for a group without Tyler. "We're contemplating our options, and (the name) is one of them," Kramer says. "I don't know that we have the answers yet. But no matter what you do, you can never make everybody happy...You've just got to come from your heart and do what you think is the right thing to do and hopefully people will adapt. Brad and Tom and Joe and I wish to continue to play and tour as a band, so whatever is involved in that, in moving forward, that's what we intend to do. The four of us stand united."

Bad Company Announce 2010 Comeback Gigs

Classic Rock Magazine has reported the original members of Bad Company – Paul Rodgers, Mick Ralphs and Simon Kirke – have announced that they will reunite for a series of eight UK shows in April 2010.

This marks the first time the original members will perform in the UK together in over three decades.

Additionally, a new Bad Company live CD/DVD set is set for release prior to the tour on 9th February 2010.

Bad Company announced their comeback this afternoon at the Hard Rock Café in Central London, where played a unique, intimate gig before a select invited audience.

They played an acoustic set that featured the songs Feel Like Makin’ Love, Shooting Star, Seagull and Do Right By Your Woman.

“These dates are to thank the fans for keeping the music alive,” said Rodgers, who was recently presented with the Classic Songwriter award at the annual Classic Rock magazine Roll Of Honour 2009.

“It’s great to be with Paul and Simon,” added Ralphs. “We made great music together and had the time of our lives doing it. I’m really looking forward to us bringing Bad Company back to the UK.”

Ralphs recently regrouped with 70s rock band Mott the Hoople for five sold-out reunion shows at the Hammersmith Apollo in London.

Bad Company’s April 2010 dates – sponsored by Classic Rock – are as follows:

Thursday 1 Birmingham LG Arena
Friday 2 Manchester Evening News Arena
Sunday 4 Sheffield City Hall
Monday 5 Cardiff CIA
Wednesday 7 Newcastle Metro Arena
Thursday 8 Glasgow SECC Clyde Auditorium
Saturday 10 Brighton Centre
Sunday 11 Wembley Arena

Special guests on the tour will the the Joe Perry Project.

Tickets go on sale at 10am Friday 20th November priced £38.50 London / £34.50 Regional (subject to booking fee) and are available from www.livenation.co.uk

Guitar Stars Come Out To Crown Guitar Center's 2009 King Of The Blues

Blues rock guitar fanatics were in seventh heaven this past Thursday, November 12th as a plethora of guitar stars turned out for the crowning of Guitar Center's 2009 King Of The Blues winner in front of a capacity crowd at The House Of Blues Sunset Strip in Hollywood, California.

The culmination of competitions held across the country, it was now down to the final five. Kirby Kelley, Graham Whitford, Joshua Gooch, Dan Peters and Roosevelt Collier, chosen from more than 4,000 guitarists who entered locally beginning July 1st, who would be judged by a panel of some of the most distinguished players (consisting of Steve Lukather of Toto; blues icon Hubert Sumlin of Howlin' Wolf and Muddy Waters; Editor-in-Chief of Guitar World magazine Brad Tolinski; blues-rock guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd; Dweezil Zappa, Elliot Easton of The Cars; producer and Grammy Award winner Pete Anderson, and Jimmy Vivino of the Tonight Show Band). All seeking the Grand Finals Prize of $25,000 cash, equipment from Gibson Guitars and Marshall Amplification, endorsement deals from Ernie Ball, Gibson, Boss, Vox and Marshall, and other coveted prizes.

One by one they came out, backed by the aforementioned Anderson's band, all demonstrating the skills which carried them past the thousands of hopefuls previously, performing on both electric and acoustic guitar, with the judges basing their decision upon the criteria of originality, authenticity, style, technique, stage presence and overall performance.

Following their performances, the sold out crowd was treated with an 11 song performance by hard rockin' blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa, fresh from being chosen Classic Rock Magazine's 'Breakthrough Artist Of the Year'. Playing a set filled with a fine cross section of material showcasing the guitar wizardry and powerhouse vocals which have made him the fastest rising performer in blues rock today; by set's end he had left yet another gathering stunned and clamoring for more.

More is what they got, as some very special guests joined Bonamassa and band onstage. First up was former Toto guitarist Steve Lukather, who paired up on a rousing version of the Bobby "Blue" Bland classic made famous by Eric Clapton, "Further On Up The Road":



After another song with Lukather, "The Great Flood" from Bonamassa's latest studio offering 'The Ballad Of John Henry", on came Jimmy Vivino, Hubert Sumlin and young phenom Tyler Dow Bryant (featured in the critically acclaimed award winning documentary of legendary rock photographer Robert M. Knight, 'Rock Prophecies') for Sonny Boy Williamson's "Your Funeral, My Trial" and a spellbinding 10 minute plus "Reconsider Baby":



A very special treat for all the hard rockers in attendance occurred when "The Voice Of Rock", former Trapeze/Deep Purple/Black Sabbath vocalist...the one, the only Glenn Hughes appeared to perform in a power trio format with Bonamassa and drummer Bogie Bowles , wowing the crowd on mesmerizing renditions of first, the Trapeze classic "Medusa" :



Rounding out Hughes' appearance was this fiery, most bluesworthy version of Deep Purple's "Mistreated" :























Finally it was time to announce and crown the winner of the competition, the reason this extravaganza was held in the first place. As the venue held its collective breath, Bonamassa read the name of the chosen one, the winner of Guitar Center's 2009 King Of The Blues Competition...From North Dallas, Texas, Kirby Kelley!



Congratulations to Mr. Kelley and to all the fine guitarists who were all more than deserving to end up in the Grand Finals! (Placard photo courtesy of Robert M. Knight/Guitar Center King of the Blues, all other photos/videos courtesy of Libby Sokolowski)

Gary Moore To Headline Planet Rock Xmas Show

Legendary guitarist Gary Moore is headlining Planet Rock’s Xmas gig in London at O2 Islington Academy on December 2nd 2009.

Arguably one of the finest British artists of all time, Gary Moore's extensive career has included stints in Thin Lizzy and Skid Row whilst his solo material has inspired musicians all over the globe. Fresh from touring the UK, the blues guitarist will be playing a unique set exclusively for Planet Rock.

Sharing the bill is Justin Hawkins' latest project Hot Leg. The former Darkness front man and his band will be bringing their high energy 'man rock' to the stage - spandex and guy-liner at the ready!

Kicking it all off are new rockers Hovercraft Pirates.

Tickets are priced £18 and are available from www.planetrock.com.

Date: 2nd December
Venue: O2 Academy Islington
Doors: 7pm
Price: £18

More B.B. King Tour Dates Announced

Guitar legend and undisputed King Of The Blues, 84 year old B.B. King has announced yet another round of tour dates in support of his Grammy Award winning 2008 album 'One Kind Favor'.

Commencing tonight,(November 13) the dates will run into 2010 with fellow blues guitar titan Buddy Guy joining King for dates beginning February 4th.



Nov. 13 @ Peppermill Wendover Casino, Wendover NV
Nov. 14 @ Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Reno NV
Nov. 15 @ Heritage Theater, Campbell CA
Nov. 17 @ Cal State Chico, Chico CA
Nov. 19 @ Coussoulis Arena, San Bernardino CA
Nov. 20 @ Centennial Hall, Tucson AZ
Nov. 21 @ Celebrity Theatre, Phoenix AZ
Nov. 22 @ Belly Up Tavern, Solana Beach CA
Dec. 26 @ Star of the Desert Arena, Primm NV
Dec. 28 @ Belly Up Aspen, Aspen CO
Dec. 31 @ Mabee Center Arena, Tulsa OK
Jan. 3, 2010 @ Nokia Theatre, Grand Prairie TX
Feb. 4 @ King Center for the Performing ArtsMelbourne FL *
Feb. 5 @ Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater FL *
Feb. 6 @ Fox Theatre, Atlanta GA *
Feb. 9 @ Ryman Auditorium, Nashville TN *
Feb. 11 @ DAR Constitution Hall, Washington D.C. *
Feb. 12 @ United Palace, New York NY *
Feb. 13 @ Caesars Circus Maximus Theatre, Atlantic City NJ *
Feb. 14 @ MGM Grand at Foxwoods, Mashantucket CT *
Feb. 16 @ Fox Theatre, Detroit MI *
Feb. 18 @ Family Arena, Saint Charles MO *
Feb. 19 @ The Midland by AMC, Kansas City MO *
Feb. 20 @ The Orpheum Theatre, Minneapolis MN *
Feb. 22 @ Mid America Center, Council Bluffs IA *

* with Buddy Guy

The Who To Perform At The Super Bowl?

According to SI.com, The Who will take the stage during the NFL's championship game - Super Bowl XLIV - on February 7 in Miami, FL. The show would mark their first performance in North America since 2008.

Reached for comment, an NFL spokesperson said, "When we have something to announce, we'll announce it."

During a recent stop on his Use It Or Lose It solo tour, frontman Roger Daltrey told Billboard.com that he and bandmate/composer Pete Townshend were working on new material for the Who's followup to 2006's Endless Wire.

"Hopefully if this tour has done it's job, I'll be in really good form as a vocalist," said Daltrey. "And who knows, we might make our best work."

Townshend has also acknowledged working on two projects - a new musical called Floss and the Who's next album, which he has said will include some pieces from the Floss project.

It's Only Jukebox Music : The Kinks Begin Work On First Album Since 1993

The Kinks have started working on their first new album since 1993’s Phobia.

Speaking to Billboard.com, the band’s principle songwriter Ray Davies reveals that his recent reworking of Kinks classics for The Kinks Choral Collection has inspired him to start writing for the band once again and he has been in the studio with some of his old bandmates.

"I've been in the studio with a couple of the Kinks, actually," Davies tells Billboard.com -- specifically original drummer Mick Avory and later members Jim Rodford on bass and Ian Gibbons on keyboards. "We've got four, five new songs...and I'm just sort of getting them motivated and seeing what they're playing like, because I haven't played with the Kinks for eight or nine years."

However, it has not been decided whether Davies’ brother Dave will be a part of any reunion.

"We'll see how he reacts to it," Davies says. "If he's physically able to do it is another matter, because he was quite seriously ill (following a stroke in 2004). But we're in communication, and we're not disregarding it yet."

Work on the new Kinks material has been currently been put on hold, though, while Davies tours his Kinks Choral Collection in the US.

Steven Tyler : "I Am Not Leaving Aerosmith"

Last night, November 10th, at the Fillmore (Irving Plaza) in New York City Aerosmith vocalist Steven Tyler joined Joe Perry for a surprise appearance onstage for the band's 1975 hit "Walk This Way".

Before the performance, the longtime frontman addressed the rumors of him quitting the band with an announcement that he has not left the band.

Here's fan produced video of the announcement :

West, Bruce & Laing To Reunite For Short Tour

Our good friends at antiMusic are reporting that it's been almost 35 years since bluesy hard rock supergroup West, Bruce & Laing has performed together, but soon the trio's music will ring out again live in concert for the last time ever. West, Bruce jr. & Laing are set to perform a limited four-show engagement at the end of January, 2010 (please see dates below). West, Bruce jr. & Laing features original band members Leslie West and Corky Laing and very special guest Malcolm Bruce, sitting in for his father Jack Bruce.

Frontman and legendary guitarist West commented, 'Playing with Jack Bruce was the thrill of a lifetime. Playing with his son Malcolm has given Corky and me, a second chance to recreate this music.' Drummer Laing added, 'As a hockey-loving Canadian, I can liken it to this' I feel like I am scoring a Hat Trick. After playing with Felix Pappalardi and Jack Bruce and now with Malcolm Bruce, I feel like the game is just beginning.'

Originally formed in 1972, with core members of two historic groups, West, Bruce & Laing featured lead singer/guitarist Leslie West and drummer Corky Laing from Mountain along with bassist Jack Bruce from Cream. West, Bruce & Laing's debut album 'Why Dontcha', released in 1972, won the hearts of critics and fans alike and featured the massive hit single of the same name. The group only performed 63 shows in the United States and Europe (selling out venues such as Radio City Music Hall and Carnegie Hall in New York City) and released one more studio album in 1973, Whatever Turns You On'. By the time the trio's live album 'Live N' Kickin' was released in 1974, the group had disbanded.

West and Laing have always wanted to recreate the music of West, Bruce & Laing; they approached Jack Bruce, but unfortunately he wasn't available. Ironically, six months later, after completing a Mountain tour as special guests supporting Joe Satriani, Laing was contacted by Jack Bruce's son Malcolm, who was in the United States recording his own album and so the dialogue began about the three of them playing together. After receiving Jack's blessing, West, Bruce jr. & Laing was reborn. West, Bruce jr. & Laing will be performing the band's catalog one last time. Don't miss it!

Thursday, January 28th Ridgefield, CT Ridgefield Playhouse
ON SALE: 11/16/09

Friday, January 29th Westbury, NY Capital One Theatre At Westbury
ON SALE: 11/15/09

Saturday, January 30th Montclair, NJ The Wellmont Theatre
ON SALE: 11/13/09

Sunday, January 31st Collingswood, NJ Scottish Rite Auditorium
ON SALE: 11/13/09

Aerosmith's Joe Perry: 'Steven Tyler Has Quit'

Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry has said that singer Steven Tyler has quit the band "as far as I can tell".

Perry's comments follow those of rhythm guitarist Brad Whitford, who last week (November 6) said that Aerosmith are to hold crisis talks about their future after relations with Tyler became strained.

Now Perry has confirmed that Tyler is unlikely to perform with the band again.

"Steven quit as far as I can tell," he told the Las Vegas Sun, adding that the singer "has had no contact with me or the other band members".

Reacting to Tyler's supposed departure, Perry vowed to carry on with Aerosmith. He echoed Whitford's recent comments by saying he is considering replacing Tyler with a new vocalist.

"Right now i'm adjusting to how we're going to go on," Perry explained. "Aerosmith is such a powerful band, I mean it's like a steam locomotive. You just can't disregard 40 years of four guys who play together as well as they do.

"As far as replacing Steve, it's not just about that, it's also four guys that play extremely well together, and I'm not going to see that go to waste. I really don't know what path it's going to take at this point, but we'll probably find somebody else that will sing in those spots where we need a singer."

As previously reported, in a recent interview with Classic Rock Magazine, Tyler said he wants to concentrate on "Brand Tyler".Until the inevitable lure of reunion big bucks, that is.

Will The Real Wishbone Ash Please Stand Up

Founding member of the legendary classic rock band Wishbone Ash, Andy Powell, is setting the record straight about the recent controversy surrounding the ownership and usage of the group's name. A band fronted by another founding member, Martin Turner, is also being promoted as Wishbone Ash, creating confusion among fans and press.

“It’s local promoters taking advantage of the good work this band has been doing,” said Powell. Most recently, Martin Turner’s German shows have been promoted under the Wishbone Ash moniker, prompting Powell to seek legal recourse. “Myself and the band’s business partners—people who have worked for years to keep the band treading the boards and keeping the recorded catalog current—see it as a raiding party,” said Powell. “I am now taking legal action in respect of this infringement of my trade mark. It’s time to stop this nonsense.”

Powell, a guitar legend in his own right, and the only remaining founding member, has recorded and toured exclusively under the Wishbone Ash banner since 1969--more than 40 years. In the last 20 years alone, Wishbone Ash has released 15 CDs (including nine studio releases) and five DVDs. None of these has featured Martin Turner. The band’s most recent release, The Power of Eternity, has garnered rave reviews from the music press internationally.

During the band’s early history, the lineup changed several times, with founding members leaving and rejoining. When, in 1993, Powell became the sole remaining original member, there was no thought of calling it a day. Powell later registered the trade mark Wishbone Ash in 1998. He has maintained the mark since then, producing numerous DVDs and CDs of new material. In addition to being co-writer on the majority of the recorded works, he’s performed around 4,000 Ash shows worldwide.

"My mandate was to simply carry forward with the band," Powell said, "as has always been the case since 1974 when the first member to leave, Ted Turner, tendered his resignation. This continuity has overwhelmingly always been what the fans have wanted, and they proved that in the early 1990s by backing our recording and promotion of the album Illuminations. At no time did I consider the band dead; we'd been through worse”.

In recent years Martin Turner registered www.wishboneash.co.uk . He then tentatively resurfaced using the name 'Wishbone featuring Martin Turner' performing Wishbone Ash songs from the very early part of the band's career. All was fine for a year or so until the name of Martin Turner’s band was changed to Martin Turner’s Wishbone Ash. His ".co.uk" website started pushing the Wishbone Ash aspect of the name firmly to the fore. Then, making matters worse, some Turner gigs were actually being promoted as ‘Wishbone Ash’ concerts. Fans who turned up expecting the long-running Powell-fronted band were disappointed and confused. Journalists who were unaware of the band’s history sometimes wrote about Turner’s band as if it actually were Wishbone Ash. Inevitably, this sparked claims of ‘passing off ’ from Wishbone Ash and its business partners.

"Over the years, band members had left in a piecemeal fashion to pursue solo careers and other ventures," said Powell. "Anyone who has followed the band knows that Martin Turner, for example, quit in 1980 and again in 1991 after a brief three-year reunion.” After leaving in '91 Martin produced a solo album. “His own website says that he'd 'moved on' from Wishbone Ash, using the name Martin Turner and calling the CD Walking the Reeperbahn,” said Powell. “This had nothing to do with Wishbone Ash and seemed to be a move on Martin Turner's part to distance himself from the band and take his career in another direction. His website actually at one point admitted that I was a continuous member of the one true band and that he was not."

Founded in England in 1969, Wishbone Ash has released more than 30 albums to date, and has been touted as one of the first dual-guitar rock bands. Rolling Stone magazine counted Ash guitarists Andy Powell and Ted Turner among the world’s top 20 best of all time. The group’s 1972 classic release, Argus, was voted Album Of The Year by readers of UK’s Melody Maker and NME. It was remixed and reissued in 2002 as a special 30th anniversary edition and consequently was the fastest selling reissue in MCA’s history. Powell’s name is synonymous with the Gibson Flying V. Over the years, he has been prominently featured in such notable publications as Guitar, Guitarist and, most recently, Vintage Guitar. He has also recorded with the likes of George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Stewart Copeland and Renaissance.

Wishbone Ash’s current line-up also features former Gringos Locos guitarist Jyrki “Muddy” Manninen, a five-year Ash veteran who brings a rootsy style to the band with his slide playing. Bassist Bob Skeat has been in Wishbone Ash for 12 years and has also in the past, worked with everyone from Colin Blunstone, Gilbert O’Sullivan and Chris Farlowe to Princess Stephanie of Monaco. Interestingly, he worked with Ash’s other 1970s guitar titan, Laurie Wisefield, in Brian May’s musical hit “We Will Rock You.” Drummer Joe Crabtree has worked with the likes of King Crimson's David Cross and Pendragon.

Wishbone Ash has embarked on an intensive tour plan taking the band 'round to next July in celebration of its 40th anniversary. The October tour of the UK began on the 2nd and ends the first week of November. Then in January 2010 the band hits the road again for the Netherlands, Germany and Scandinavia. Canada's blues prodigy, Jimmy Bowskill, will be opening for the band on this six-week tour. For a complete list of tour dates and venues, visit www.wishboneash.com/tourdates.

In addition, the band will revisit Warsaw and Poznan in Poland, along with the Czech Republic. A USA East Coast tour is in the final booking stages, planned for March 2010. Italy and Switzerland will also be visited this time around, just prior to the usual spring UK tour. A USA West Coast tour and a possible Far East visit are being discussed for June. The new DVD Wishbone Ash 40 - Live in London was released in Europe on Oct. 10. This 40th anniversary show from Shepherd's Bush Empire was produced by RCN TV, the same team who made the highly acclaimed Wishbone Ash Live in Hamburg DVD.

For more information visit the official Wishbone Ash website: www.wishboneash.com

Aerosmith To Carry On Without Tyler?

FMQB is reporting that before Aerosmith's recent show at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Steven Tyler said he will spend 2010 working on solo projects. "I don’t know what I’m doing yet, but it’s definitely going to be something Steven Tyler: working on the brand of myself – Brand Tyler," he told Classic Rock magazine. He also cryptically stated, "Once the band hit the final note and I walk off stage – then I’ll tell you the whole story."

The magazine also said that off stage there appears to be some friction within the band, and that no one sees Tyler until they go on stage as his dressing room is located far away from the rest of the group. Aerosmith will reportedly meet over the next couple of weeks to discuss future plans, possibly without Tyler.

"I'm not sure how good that would look, it would largely depend on who we could get and who would want to do it. That’s big shoes to fill," guitarist Brad Whitford told Classic Rock, referring to the idea of the group performing with a different singer. "Nobody could replace Steven or imitate him – he's one of a kind. But if somebody was willing to do it and the chemistry was right, why not?"

Still Keeping The Blues Live & Loud : An Exclusive Interview With One Of Austin's Kings Of Tone, Blues Rock Guitar Legend Van Wilks

In a career spanning over three decades Austin, Texas based guitarist Van Wilks has forged a blazing blues rock path filled with some of the most impressive playing to be found in the genre.

Lauded as one of the city's master players by both critics, fans and fellow musicians such as Eric Johnson and Billy Gibbons, the consistency of his work has made him stand out in a scene overfilled with hot guitarists year after year. While hot in - the - moment young axeslingers come and go, Wilks has earned the vast respect not only for his longevity, but for his commitment to his craft. Always learning a trick or two from newer players, he's succeeded in keeping his music fresh and vital in a genre characterized and bound in many ways by tradition.

Beginning his recording career with the hard rocking critically acclaimed Mercury Records release 'Bombay Tears' in 1980, an album hailed by the English rock mag Kerrang! as "a masterpiece",Wilks soon found himself out on the road touring the world with ZZ Top (with whom he shared management with at the time), Heart, Point Blank and others, showcasing in a live setting the taste and raw power which has seen him top both reader's and critics' polls in Austin as best guitarist time and time again. Declared "a perfect cross between Jimi Hendrix and Van Halen" by the Austin-American Statesman, his incendiary live performances have left many an audience stunned throughout the globe.

When more than deserving rock n roll success eluded him, Wilks turned towards a more bluesy direction after a long recording hiatus with 1995's 'Soul of a Man'. Still inspired by the English guitarists such as Keith Richards, Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page,blues greats Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy alongside Jimi Hendrix, it was welcomed by both fans and critics warmly.

1999's 'Koko's Hideway', (which included a duet with Eric Johnson) 2002's 'Texas Jukin' and 2005's 'Running From Ghosts' continued the streak, with critics expousing platitudes in abundance at his outstanding instrumental and songwriting skills, once again establishing him as a unique force to be reckoned with in the highly competitive blues scene. Recently voted by the Austin Chronicle as both Best Acoustic Guitarist and Best Electric Guitarist 2009, its a testament to his enduring presence and talent.

Now Wilks is back with his first ever live album, 'Live & Loud From Austin, Texas'. Packaged as a combination CD/DVD package, for the first time those who have never had the opportunity to witness this exceptionally talented guitarist in a live setting will have the chance to do so. Although admittedly a bit short at 45 minutes due to it being recorded during an opening slot for Robin Trower, it still manages to convey the excitement of seeing and hearing the scorching hot blues rock attack which has been his stock in trade for many a year.

Recently I had the wonderful opportunity to catch up with Van at his home in Austin, where the topics of discussion ranged from the new live album, his thoughts on European versus American audiences, Stevie Ray Vaughan, the music scene in Austin, touring with ZZ Top, his musical influences and much, much more. Read on as we have an exclusive conversation with one of Austin's true kings of blues tone, Mr. Van Wilks at this location.

"Without A Word" from 'Live & Loud From Austin Texas" :

Paul McCartney : "The Beatles Weren't That Good"

The UK's Sun is reporting Sir Paul McCartney admits The Beatles weren't much cop when they first formed.

Realizing they sounded average at best, Macca wasn't surprised in 1962 when record label Decca refused to sign the band - who went on to become the biggest of all time.

In an interview with Xfm's Ian Camfield he said: "We obviously weren't that good. We were formulating it all.

"You wouldn't have thought we were that great. You'd have turned us down if you were a record company. And they did - Decca turned us down!"

Soon after Decca snubbed the Fab Four, producer George Martin signed them to EMI's Parlophone label and the band - prior to sticksman Ringo Starr's arrival - went on to play a 48-night residency in a Hamburg, Germany, club.

It was during this formative era that they honed their sound and learned the art of wowing crowds.

Macca said: "When we first went to Hamburg, and there'd be no-one in the club.

"You'd see a couple of students, maybe a guy and his girlfriend, and they'd look in a bit tentatively, look up at the price of the beer, see it was too much and start walking out.

"So we'd go, 'Come on, everybody, get back in here! It's all happening!'

"So we'd learned to attract an audience. After a few weeks, we'd be really packing those clubs.

"It taught us that game of how to win over an audience.

"We learned loads of songs, so by the time we got back to England, we had quite a big repertoire."

Read more at this location.

The Doors' 'Live In New York' Box Set To See Release November 10th

Rhino and Bright Midnight Archives unleash four performances from The Doors' final tour with 'Live In New York'. The latest addition to the band's acclaimed series of archival concert releases, this six-disc collection contains all four of The Doors' performances - in their entirety - recorded in 1970 at the Felt Forum in New York City. The collection will be available November 10 at all retail outlets, including www.thedoors.com and www.rhino.com, for suggested list price of $89.98 for the physical boxed set. A digital version featuring select highlights from all four Felt Forum shows will also be available at all digital retail outlets for $9.99.

Recorded January 17 and 18, 1970 - just a few weeks before the release of Morrison Hotel - these concerts find Jim Morrison, John Densmore, Robby Krieger, and Ray Manzarek locked in tight as they deliver smoking takes on soon-to-be-classics from their forthcoming album, including 'Roadhouse Blues,' 'Peace Frog,' 'Ship Of Fools,' and 'Maggie M'Gill.' The shows also feature a number of driving blues covers, such as Bo Diddley's 'Who Do You Love,' Howlin' Wolf's 'Little Red Rooster,' and John Lee Hooker's 'Crawling King Snake.' 'Those were the bluesy songs we always used to do,' Krieger says.

'We probably hadn't done them in years, but we resurrected them for these shows.'

These shows represent The Doors' final New York City performances with Morrison, who passed away July 3, 1971.

Steve Miller, Zakk Wylde, Ace Frehley, Jennifer Batten Among Those Paying Tribute To Les Paul In Nashville

Gibson Guitar, the world’s premier musical instrument manufacturer and home of the cherished Les Paul guitar model along with the Gibson Foundation has announced a sell-out tribute show in honor of the late, great Les Paul at the historic Ryman Auditorium, former home to the Grand Ole Opry, in Nashville on Thursday, November 19, 2009.

Tickets, which were made available to the public on Monday, October 26th, were free and open to the many fans of Les Paul and Gibson Guitar. Les Paul, the innovator and inventor who passed away at 94 years old this past August was known throughout the world as the man who created multi-track recording and the father of the electric guitar. Many musicians pay homage to Les Paul and credit their careers and musicianship directly to him.

For fans that missed out on getting a ticket, Gibson will soon be releasing a special allotment of tickets to the general public on the website www.gibson.com/lespaultribute. Fans still interested in obtaining tickets to the show should go to this website regularly for information on this opportunity as well as links to various promotional and media opportunities to win tickets.

Les Paul’s son, Russ Paul, along with Gibson Guitar Chairman and CEO, Henry Juszkiewicz and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum President Terry Stewart will emcee the 90 minute program which will begin at 8pm at the Ryman (doors open at 7pm CT). The Les Paul Trio, widely known for their Monday night performances with Les Paul at the Iridium in New York while Les was alive, will serve as house band and be joined on stage by musical great Steve Miller, also Les Paul’s godson. The evening will be a mix of Les Paul’s music and instrumentals and supported by chart-topping musical acts own memories of Les Paul and their own performances in tribute to the man, the music and the guitar.

Joining Steve Miller for the show will be rock’s elite including Ace Frehley, Zakk Wylde and Jennifer Batten. Joining them will be contemporary artist Josh Kelley and Nashville’s own country hit-makers Wynonna Judd, John Rich, Charlie Daniels, Emerson Drive, JD Souther and Steve Wariner. NY Jazz artist Sarah Partridge will perform a special rendition of Les’ own version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow while Anna Wilson will take the stage to perform her personal jazz remembrance.

Les Paul was an acclaimed guitar player, entertainer and inventor. One of the foremost influences on 20th century sound and responsible for the world’s most famous guitar, the Les Paul model, Les Paul’s prestigious career in music and invention spans from the 1930s to the present. Though he’s indisputably one of America’s most popular, influential, and accomplished electric guitarists, Les Paul is best known as an early innovator in the development of the solid body guitar. His groundbreaking design would become the template for Gibson’s best-selling electric, the Les Paul model, introduced in 1952. Today, countless musical legends still consider Paul’s iconic guitar unmatched in sound and prowess. Among Paul’s most enduring contributions are those in the technological realm, including ingenious developments in multi-track recording, guitar effects, and the mechanics of sound in general. Les Paul passed away this past August at the age of 94.

ELP To Headline Classic Rock’s High Voltage Festival

Classic Rock Magazine is reporting that Emerson Lake And Palmer will headline the High Voltage Festival, the UK’s new flagship classic rock event, on Sunday, July 26, 2010.

The launch of the High Voltage Festival was announced by Classic Rock’s Editor In Chief, Scott Rowley, at the Classic Rock Roll Of Honour at London’s Park Lane Hotel this past Monday (November 2).

The High Voltage Festival is a joint venture between Classic Rock magazine and The Mean Fiddler organization.

According to ELP, fans can expect “cannons, pyrotechnics and a supreme production alongside the stunning musicianship and songs that made ELP the legends they truly are”.

Former Deep Purple, Black Sabbath Vocalist Glenn Hughes To Join Joe Bonamassa Onstage At House Of Blues

The "Voice Of Rock", legendary vocalist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Trapeze, Black Sabbath) has been asked by hard rockin' blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa to join him live onstage on Thursday, November 12th to perform a couple of classic songs from Glenn's Trapeze and Deep
Purple days.

It all takes place at House Of Blues, Sunset Strip (Hollywood) in Los Angeles, as part of the "King of the Blues" Guitar Center contest finals. Tickets can be had through the Ticketmaster link below:

http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0900432E038A9AB3?artistid=838397&majorcatid=10
001&minorcatid=4

Iggy Pop, Iron Maiden, AC/DC, Ron Wood, Joe Bonamassa Amongst Those Scoring Classic Rock Roll Of Honour Awards

The 2009 Classic Rock Roll Of Honour Awards were held last night (November 2nd) at London’s Park Lane Hotel. The star studded event saw Iggy Pop picking up awards alongside The Rolling Stones'' Ron Wood, late Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, Cream's Ginger Baker and hard rockin' blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa.

Wood was awarded for his contribution to The Rolling Stones as well as The Jeff Beck Group and The Faces.

John Bonham was posthumously awarded the Tommy Vance Inspiration Award with his wife and daughter collecting the award.

Wood was handed his accolade by The Who's Pete Townshend. Guitarists Slash (Velvet Revolver, ex-Guns N' Roses) and Brian May of Queen also attended the awards.

Iron Maiden were declared Band Of The Year with AC/DC picking up Album Of The Year for Black Ice.

Guitarist Bonamassa, whose latest studio album 'The Ballad Of John Henry' was also up for Album Of The Year, was awarded Breakthrough Artist Of The Year.

Chickenfoot, the supergroup comprised of Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony, Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith and guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani were tapped as Best New Band.

The Spirit of Prog Award was handed to Dream Theater, with Mike Portnoy paying tribute to Radiohead and The Mars Volta in his speech.

Classic Songwriter went to Paul Rodgers, Aerosmith's Rocks was named Classic Album while Mott The Hoople scooped Comeback of the Year.

Photos from the event can be viewed here.

Band You Should Know : Hard Driving Blues Power Trio Devils Creek

Inspired by the classic guitar driven blues rock of the late 60's and 70's, UK power trio Devils Creek seem intent on keeping alive the time honored tradition first forged by greats such as Rory Gallagher, Alvin Lee and Ten Years After and Status Quo years ago.

Formed in 2006, led by guitarist/vocalist Guy Rosewall, featuring a crack rhythm section in bassist Tim Chapple and drummer Alan Ibbotson, their 2008 debut album 'Bullfrog Blues' combined a classic approach with an attack favored by heavy rock, particularly evident in the ultra heavy bass sound not normally heard in the genre.

Featuring a hard driving electric version of Rory Gallagher's "Seven Days" which would surely make the late great Irish guitarist proud, the entire offering is a solid testament to the enduring power and influence of blues inflected rock - especially the variety in which a wailing Fender Strat comes front and center.

Now in the middle of sessions for their second studio album, several tracks being already available for preview on the band's MySpace page it's quite clear based on the fresh evidence on display that these three aren't likely to stray from their vision any time in the foreseeable future.