Steve Miller To Get The Blues On Two New Studio Albums

Billboard.com is reporting that Steve Miller hasn't released a new studio album in 17 years but he plans to make up for lost time with a pair of blues and R&B cover sets that will come out this year and next.

"Bingo!," Miller's first Steve Miller Band release on his own Space Cowboy Records label in partnership with Roadrunner/Loud & Proud, comes out June 15 and features songs by B.B. King ("Rock Me Baby"), Lowell Fulsom ("Tramp"), Jimmie Reed ("You Got Me Dizzy") and three Jimmie Vaughan compositions, among others. Miller plans to put a companion album out in the spring of 2011.

"This is a party record, man," Miller tells Billboard.com. "It's about getting up and getting ready to dance. It's like the fraternity party gigs I used to play in college. I went through and picked all my favorite tunes that I really, really loved. I wanted to make this record forever; it started off as just kind of a goof, and then it got real serious."

The sessions for "Bingo!" and its successor actually started in 2008 with co-producer Andy Johns at George Lucas' Skywalker Ranch in northern California. The two were working on Miller's last concert DVD, "Live From Chicago," and he recalls that "Andy said, 'Boy, I would really love to do a guitar album with you,' and I said, 'Y'know, I'm getting ready to do one.' The next thing you know...we go into Skywalker and cut 42 tracks."

Besides his regular band, including the late harmonica player Norton Buffalo, Miller -- who's been playing many of these songs on the road during the past few years -- was also joined by Joe Satriani on "Rock Me Baby" and Vaughan's "Sweet Soul Vibe," as well as by Santana percussionists Michael Carabello and Jose Areas. Among the songs slated for the next album are Reed's "Close Together," Junior Wells' "Snatch It Back and Hold It," Roscoe Gordon's "No More Doggin'," Muddy Waters' "Can't Be Satisfied," Robert Johnson's "Sweet Home Chicago" and Jimmy McCracklin's "The Walk."

"It's a great group of songs, and it gives us a lot of new material to play," Miller notes. "I'm excited about releasing some new music for the audience and for my band and for me to play. This material we're just releasing now we've been working on stage for the last couple of years and it's been going over really, really well and it's just worked out that now seemed like a good time to release a record."

Miller and company will be on the road in North America starting May 21 in Henderson, Nevada, with a new stage set by Broadway designer Rob Roth. He also plans to play Europe during the fall. Meanwhile, Miller says he has "10 or 11 pieces of music" for original songs that he has yet to write lyrics for, and he's also working with some youth musicians from San Francisco and Texas.

Joe Bonamassa Hits #14 On UK Album Charts, Tops Indie Album Chart For 'Black Rock'

Hard rockin' blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa's brand new release 'Black Rock', released world wide via J&R Adventures March 23 has entered the official UK Album Charts in its first week of issue at #14.

The placing marks the highest charting album in his career thus far in the UK, and also sees him sitting on top of the UK Indie Album Chart at #1 for the week ending March 28th.

Bonamassa's tenth album features five self penned songs as well as his renditions of blues and rock classics from Leonard Cohen's "Bird On A Wire", Bobby Parker's "Steal Your Heart Away", The Jeff Beck Group's "Spanish Boots" and Otis Rush's "Three Times A Fool." One of the album's centerpieces is Bonamassa's duet with B.B. King on Willie Nelson's "Night Life."

Alice Cooper Starting Work On New Studio Album

Planet Rock is reporting Alice Cooper has revealed that he has started work on a brand new studio album.

In his show, Alice revealed that he has started work on a new studio record – the follow up to 2008’s Along Came A Spider.

He says “(Our new album) hasn’t been recorded yet but we’ve got ten demos done already on it. I think it’s gonna be called The Night Shift.”

Alice is heading out on the road next month as part of his Theatre Of Death tour. He’s playing in North America until July when he heads to Europe to play a few Sonisphere Festivals, including the UK leg which takes place on the weekend of 30 July – 2 August.

Classic AC/DC Concert Film To Finally See DVD Release

The long out of print AC/DC film Let There Be Rock is to finally make its way to DVD.

On his blog, DJ Eddie Trunk reveals that he�s seen some of the film, and that it is looking pretty good.

�"I kind of let the cat out of the bag a few months ago when I mentioned here that this was coming out finally on DVD, but I was never told it was a secret, so kind of broke the news without intending to. But the folks putting it out were cool and happy for the publicity this blog generated about it. I can now tell you that the release of the DVD has been pushed back to probably January 2011.

�They are doing some clean ups to the audio and video and making it as high def as the source will allow. I can tell you I have an advance and it looks and sounds great, but they are making it even better! This is just a phenomenal document of the last tour with Bon and it's so cool to have been asked to contribute to it. I will be interviewed about the impact of the band as one of the DVDs bonus features. So it's real and it's coming, just going to need to wait a bit longer, but trust me it will be worth it.�

The film was recorded at the Pavillon de Paris on 9 December 1979, two months before Bon Scott died. It was released theatrically in September 1980 but has never made the journey to DVD.

It was thought that the master tapes for the film had been lost, so it will be interesting to see how the new transfer to DVD looks".

Daltrey To Continue Peforming Even If The Who Split Up

The Who's Roger Daltrey insists he will continue performing even if the group split up because of Pete Townshend's tinnitus.

Roger Daltrey has vowed to continue performing even if The Who split up.

The future of the group is in serious doubt because guitarist Pete Townshend's suffers from tinnitus - a severe ringing in the ears - but the frontman insists the demise of the group wouldn't end his career.

He said: "Would I carry on? Of course I would. I mean, I don't want to stop singing. I just can't keep going on trying to keep singing like I did 40 years ago. I'm realistic about where I am in my life now."

Despite his promise, Roger admits he will have to give up performing eventually.

He added: "Pete and I are agreed on this - we don't see any time that we're going to stop, but we are realistic that one day it will retire us. We'll just no longer be able to do it."

The Who perform at London's Royal Albert Hall in aid of the Teenage Cancer Trust charity next week.

Robert Plant To Tour U.S. This Summer, Release New Album With Band Of Joy

Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant has resurrected his pre-Zeppelin band Band Of Joy for a new album and tour. The group, featuring a diverse group of musicians - Patty Griffin, vocals; Darrell Scott, multi instrumentalist/vocals; Byron House, bass/vocals; Marco Giovino, drums and percussion/vocals; including co-producer Buddy Miller, guitar/vocals - will embark on a 12-city North American tour in July, to be followed by further dates in the fall.

The album is set for release late summer/early fall on Rounder.

Kicking off in Memphis on July 13 (see full tour schedule below) the tour will feature Plant and the Band Of Joy - the same musicians who also appear and play on the album.

Says Plant: "It's been a blast working on these new songs...and I'm enjoying such creativity and vitality. It's been a remarkable change of direction for all of us and as a group we all seem to have developed a new groove."

In recent weeks Plant has been in the studio working on the planned release, which will be his first since "Raising Sand", the multi-platinum, six-time-Grammy-winning collaboration with fellow Rounder artist Alison Krauss. Krauss has most recently been recording with her longtime band Union Station, and will be touring with them this summer. The pair do not expect to announce a new album or tour in the coming year, though when asked about the collaboration, Plant says, "Oh yes, Alison and I get together quite often...and sometimes we dance."

Robert Plant and the Band Of Joy tour dates:

July 13 - Memphis, TN - The Orpheum Theater
July 15 - Little Rock, AR - Robinson Center Music Hall
July 16 - Tulsa, OK - Brady Theater
July 18 - Albuquerque, NM - Sandia Casino Amphitheater
July 20 - Phoenix, AZ - Dodge Theater
July 21 - Tucson, AZ - Anselmo Valencia Amphitheater
July 23 - Dallas, TX - Meyerson Symphony Hall
July 24 - Houston, TX - Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
July 26 - Austin, TX - Stubbs Waller Creek Amphitheater
July 28 - Mobile, AL - The Saenger Theatre
July 30 - Clearwater, FL - Ruth Eckerd Hall
July 31 - Miami, FL - Bayfront Park Amphitheater

Band To Keep An Eye On : Corsair

Virginia may not be well known for bands featuring dual guitars ala Thin Lizzy or Wishbone Ash, but that may change if Charlottesville's Corsair have their way.

Formed from the ashes of Mass Sabbath, a Black Sabbath tribute band in 2006, the band got together with the challenge of creating "true adventure rock in the vein of the early 70's progressive movement". Based on the evidence of the just released well produced debut 5 track EP 'Alpha Centauri', they've met that challenge.

Influenced by Sabbath, UFO, Wishbone Ash, King Crimson, Deep Purple and other 70's heavyweights, one will also hear elements of Bowie, the space rock of Hawkwind and even 80's NWOBHM legends Diamond Head in the mix, all spearheaded by the twin guitar leads of Paul Sebring and Marie Landragin, who combine in the spirit of such hallowed teams as Gorham/Robertson or Tipton/Downing of old. For further evidence go to the band's MySpace, or one can stream, or download the entire EP at this location.

Guitar Legend Jeff Beck To Play Bonnaroo Festival

British guitar legend Jeff Beck, whose first studio album in seven years, 'Emotion & Commotion' is due to be released April 13, has been added to the lineup of the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in Manchester, Tennessee on June 12th. To purchase tickets go to this location.

In other related news, Beck's cover of Screaming Jay Hawkins'"I Put A Spell On You" from the new album, which features Joss Stone on vocals, is now available for download in the U.S. iTunes store at this location.

Michael Schenker Group To Release Live DVD This Fall

Planet Rock is reporting that Michael Schenker has revealed that the Michael Schenker Group will be releasing a brand new live DVD later this year.

The MSG have been touring Japan in recent weeks and in a post on his official website Schenker revealed:

“We successfully finished the MSG - 30th Anniversary - (Special Line-up) Japan Tour. A DVD and Recording featuring live footage from this tour will be released in Autumn.”

The current MSG line-up features drummer Simon Phillips (Judas Priest, Mike Oldfield, Ian Gillan, Toto), vocalist Gary Barden, guitarist/keyboardist Wayne Findlay and bass legend Neil Murray (Whitesnake, Gary Moore, Black Sabbath, Brian May).

Legendary Rock Photographer Jim Marshall Passes Away At 74

Legendary rock photographer Jim Marshall has passed away at the age of 74. Marshall is widely acknowledged as the premier photographer of the rock-and-roll era, with numerous iconic shots to his credit.

Marshall had been scheduled to appear at a reception Wednesday night to promote his new book with celebrity photographer Timothy White. He apparently died in his sleep sometime overnight while alone in his New York hotel room.

The photograph for which he is perhaps the most famous, is the Jimi Hendrix / Flaming Guitar picture taken at the Monterey Pop Festival. In his last book, Trust (released last year), Marshall revealed how he bonded with Hendrix initially.

"The first time I shot Jimi was at Monterey Pop," Marshall writes. "It was during his soundcheck and there was just me, Jimi's band, a few crew and Al Kooper in an empty arena. Jimi was on the stage and I went up to him and introduced myself, 'I'm Jim Marshall, photographer, I'm gonna be taking pictures, is everything cool?' He says, 'Man, maybe this shit is meant to be.' I'm like, 'What do you mean?' He goes, 'The dude who makes my amplifiers is called Jim Marshall.' Like a smart ass I say, 'Yeah I know that' and he says, 'But what you don't know is my name is Jim Marshall too.' His given name was James Marshall Hendrix. We were a little stoned as I recall."

Marshall was the only photographer allowed backstage at The Beatles’ final ever live show at the Candlestick Park in San Francisco on 29 August 1966, while he accompanied the Rolling Stones on their legendary 1972 tour. He was also the chief photographer at Woodstock in 1969.

Good timing and his rapport with musicians also helped him catch Johnny Cash memorably "flipping the bird" at a 1969 performance at San Quentin Prison.

You can access Marshall's work at this location.

Free 'Forever' DVD To Get Stateside Re- Release

Bringing forth a mighty brand of blues-rock in the early 1970s, Free was a critical piece of foundation in hard rock’s roots. Today, March 23, Eagle Rock Entertainment will celebrate their career with the release of the Free Forever 2 DVD set.

One of the most heralded bands of the 1970s, Free Forever amasses archival video footage, interviews, audio, memorabilia, and other bits of the band’s history to create the ultimate fan package. Featuring the powerhouse combination of a young Paul Rodgers’ gravelly vocals, Simon Kirke’s solid drums, Paul Kossoff’s infamous guitar leads, and Andy Fraser’s groove-infused bass lines, Free laid the foundation for a blues-rock revolution.

This set features live performances from the Beat Club in Germany and UK’s Granada TV. The second disc boasts full audio from their set at the legendary 1970 Isle of Wight festival (which also featured Jimi Hendrix, The Who, and The Doors), littered with a collection of band photos, posters, artwork, and unearthed video footage of tracks “Be My Friend,” “Mr. Big,” and “All Right Now.” Bonus features include original and brand new edits of these Isle of Wight videos with split-screen views. Interviews and special feature “The Freelist,” which contains a Top of the Pops appearance, Australian interviews, and other bits, is also included. To order go to this location.

Glenn Hughes Can't Believe The Story Of His Life After Writing Autobiography

Former Deep Purple and Black Sabbath vocalist Glenn Hughes plans to shock fans with stories of debauchery and drug use in a new autobiography.

The legendary singer and bassist has teamed up with writer Joel Mciver to pen The Life, Near Death, And Rebirth Of A Rock Star: Deep Purple And Beyond.

Metallica's Lars Ulrich will offer up an introduction to the book, which will feature rare photos.

And Hughes admits even he can't believe he's still alive after all he's lived through: "You've never read anything like it... from my childhood via my career in Trapeze and Deep Purple to my addiction and recovery.

"I'm now on top of the world as a solo artist and, after so many years of sobriety, I can hardly believe that I survived. I spent a million dollars on cocaine and, when you've read this book, you won't believe it either."

The autobiography will also feature contributions from Hughes' famous pals David Coverdale, Tony Iommi and designer John Varvatos.

The book is expected to hit shelves later this year.

Blues Rock Guitar Duel In The High Desert With Joe Bonamassa And Ryan McGarvey

Last night at the historic Lensic Performing Arts Theater in Santa Fe, New Mexico blues rock guitar titan Joe Bonamassa performed in front of a sold out crowd. In spite of the freezing temperatures outside, the venue was on fire as the guitarist put on a fiery, passionate show featuring many selections from his upcoming studio release 'Black Rock', due out March 23 via J&R Adventures world-wide.

One of the many highlights of the evening was a special guest appearance by the pride of New Mexico, young blues rock guitar phenom Ryan McGarvey, who sat in with Bonamassa for two songs - first on a song from the previously mentioned 'Black Rock', a cover of Otis Rush's "Three Times A Fool" - which saw the two trading call and response guitar licks in the time honored blues tradition. McGarvey continued to sit in on "Blues Deluxe" the cover of the Jeff Beck Group classic which Bonamassa covered on his 2003 album of the same name. Fan produced footage follows below :

Classic Rolling Stones Concert Film To Finally See Official DVD Release

Eagle Rock Entertainment have confirmed that they have signed a deal with the Rolling Stones to release two DVDs this year. The Rolling Stones have long been viewed by many as Britain's most important rock 'n' roll band and these releases, concentrating on some of their finest work laid down in the '70s, will certainly cement that reputation.

The first of the releases Stones In Exile is the story of the making of the classic album Exile On Main Street, which was released in 1972 as a double LP and is considered by many to be their masterpiece. This title is due to be released in June with substantial bonus material and follows the broadcast of the main show by the BBC in late May, and the reissue of the album at the same time.

The second of the releases is Ladies And Gentlemen...The Rolling Stones, the legendary Rolling Stones concert film from 1972. Fully restored from the original film, it will be released nationally in cinemas and then receive its first ever authorized DVD release. The title will also be released in high definition on Blu-ray in the Autumn of 2010.

It's More Than A Feeling, It's A Lawsuit : Boston's Tom Scholz Sues Local Paper Over Brad Delp Suicide Blame

Karina Brown of Courthousenews.com is reporting that guitarist Tom Scholz, a founder of the rock band Boston, says the Boston Herald defamed him in an article blaming him for the 2007 suicide of the band's lead singer, Brad Delp. And Scholz claims Herald reporters fabricated quotes from Delp's wife to do so.

A week after Delp committed suicide, in March 2007, the Herald published an article under the headline "Pal's Snub Made Delp Do It," according to Scholz's complaint in Suffolk County Court, Boston.

He claims Herald columnists Gayle Fee and Laura Raposa - who also are named as defendants - used fabricated quotes from Delp's widow in the article in the Herald's "Inside Track" section.

The widow, Micki Delp, denied making two of the statements that were "quoted" in the article, Scholz says.

The column reported that Delp said her ex-husband "was driven to despair" by "a dysfunctional professional life that ultimately led to the sensitive frontman's suicide."

The 21-page complaint cites this passage from the March 16, 2007 article: "According to Micki Delp, Brad was upset over the lingering bad feelings from the ugly breakup of the band Boston over 20 years ago. Delp continued to work with Scholz and Boston but also gigged with Barry Goudreau, Fran Sheehan and Sib Hashian, former members of the band who had a fierce falling out with Scholz in the early '80s.

"As a result, he was constantly caught in the middle of the warring factions. The situation was complicated by the fact that Delp's ex-wife, Micki, is the sister of Goudreau's wife."

Scholz says the Herald writers fabricated the quotes, and that Micki Delp "in fact, made no such statements".

In 2008, Scholz sued Micki Delp and her sister, Connie Goudreau, for defamation; that lawsuit is still pending.

According to Delp's testimony in the 2008 lawsuit, Micki Delp told Fee that she did not know why Brad Delp had committed suicide.

When the story was published, Micki Delp demanded that Fee retract the statements, but Fee refused, according to the complaint.

Scholz says Fee and Raposa also invented quotes from an anonymous "insider" in order "to sensationalize a story about Mr. Delp's suicide in an effort to sell newspapers and to portray Mr. Scholz as an insensitive, heartless and oppressive person."

In 2009, Scholz sued fan sites for issues related to Delp's suicide as well.

Legendary Former Frank Zappa, Alice Cooper Manager Herb Cohen Passes Away At 77

Legendary manager Herb Cohen, who was instrumental in guiding Frank Zappa and The Mothers Of Invention, The Alice Cooper Band and Tom Waits to fame has died, aged 77

Cohen died of unknown causes on Tuesday, March 16, in Napa, California.

In addition to Waits, his clients included Tim Buckley and Linda Ronstadt.

Business partners Cohen and Zappa also set up DiscReet Records and companion labels Straight and Bizarre Records in 1969. Their business ventures collapsed in 1976 amid litigation between the pair.

Video Footage Of Bonamassa, Hughes, Sherinian, Bonham "Supergroup" Debut Performance Available

The self described by Joe Bonamassa "Supa Dupa Groupa", namely guitarist Bonamassa,"The Voice Of Rock" Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Trapeze), keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater) and drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin, UFO, Foreigner) made a surprise debut appearance during the encore at the guitarist's show at the Riverside Municipal Auditorium in Riverside, California on March 17th.

The brand new aggregation, formerly (and possible future) named Black Country performed two songs, "One Last Soul", a brand new original tentatively slated for inclusion on the Kevin Shirley(Led Zeppelin, Iron Maiden, Aerosmith) produced, yet untitled album and a cover of the Deep Purple classic 'Mistreated. Here's some fan produced footage taken at the show :

"One Last Soul"



"Mistreated"

Southern Rockers Molly Hatchet To Unleash Justice In May

Planet Rock is reporting Molly Hatchet are to release a brand new album, 'Justice', via SPV/Steamhammer on May 31.

The Southern rockers�' thirteenth studio album is preceded by download only single "Fly On The Wings Of Angels",with all proceeds from that single going to the Somer Thompson Foundation in honour of murdered schoolgirl Somer Thompson. Her older sister Abigail sings the intro to the single.

Following the release of the album Molly Hatchet are due to head out on the road on an extensive world tour. "When we're on tour we meet the most passionate Southern rock fans everywhere,� says guitarist Bobby Ingram. �We feel that we've succeeded in catching this passion on 'Justice', showing the world that Southern rock and Molly Hatchet still operate on full throttle."

You can download the first single from the band�s official website now at this location.

Stream Blues Rock Guitar Titan Joe Bonamassa's 'Black Rock' In Full

The wait is finally over. You can now listen to blues rock guitar titan Joe Bonamassa's stunning new release 'Black Rock' at this location, courtesy of Billboard.com and J&R Adventures.

Due out worldwide March 23, Bonamassa's tenth album features five self penned songs as well as his renditions of blues and rock classics from Leonard Cohen's "Bird On A Wire", Bobby Parker's "Steal Your Heart Away", The Jeff Beck Group's "Spanish Boots" and Otis Rush's "Three Times A Fool." One of the album's centerpieces is Bonamassa's duet with B.B. King on Willie Nelson's "Night Life."

Bonamassa has hit No. 1 on Billboard's Blues Albums chart with each of his last three studio albums -- 2006's "You And Me," 2007's "Sloe Gin," and 2009's "The Ballad Of John Henry."

Here's a taste in the form of the aforementioned "Spanish Boots", a cover originally on the classic Jeff Beck Group album 'Beck-Ola'. :

Five Hendrix Albums Reach Billboard's Top 100

AntiMusic is reporting that Valleys of Neptune, the long-awaited album of previously unavailable Jimi Hendrix studio recordings, has debuted on the Billboard 200 best-selling albums chart at #4, while four additional Hendrix catalog titles -- Are You Experienced (#44), Electric Ladyland (#60), First Rays of the New Rising Sun (#63), and Axis: Bold As Love (#67) -- have returned to the Billboard 200 four decades after their original release dates, a testimony to the enduring vitality and importance of the trailblazing artist-guitarist-performer.

A newly curated album of 12 fully realized studio cuts, more than a hour's worth of previously unheard Jimi Hendrix music, Valleys of Neptune, the centerpiece of the historic 2010 Jimi Hendrix Catalog Project, rocketed to #1 on Amazon in anticipation of its release. The album debuted at #1 at Barnes & Noble, B&N.com, Borders, J&R Music World, Newbury Comics, Fred Meyer, Easy Street (Seattle), Bull Moose; #2 at Amoeba and Music Monitor; #3 at Target and Best Buy. Approximately 20% of first week's sales have been in the digital realm.

"The consumer response to Valleys of Neptune and the Jimi Hendrix catalog has been phenomenal," said Adam Block, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Legacy Recordings. "It reminds us that his spirit still speaks to so many and inspires and motivates fans of all ages." To read more go to this location.

Memphis Music Legend Alex Chilton Passes Away At 59

The Memphis Commerical Appeal is reporting that pop hitmaker, cult hero, and Memphis rock iconoclast Alex Chilton has died.

The singer and guitarist, best known as a member of '60s pop-soul act the Box Tops and the '70s power-pop act Big Star, died today at a hospital in New Orleans. Chilton, 59, had been complaining of about his health earlier today. He was taken by paramedics to the emergency room where he was pronounced dead. The cause of death is believed to be a heart attack.

His Big Star bandmate Jody Stephens confirmed the news this evening. "Alex passed away a couple of hours ago," Stephens said from Austin, Texas, where the band was to play Saturday at the annual South By Southwest Festival. "I don’t have a lot of particulars, but they kind of suspect that it was a heart attack."

The Memphis-born Chilton rose to prominence at age 16, when his gruff vocals powered Box Tops massive hit “The Letter.” The band would score several more hits, including “Cry Like a Baby” and “Neon Rainbow.”

After the Box Tops ended in 1970, Chilton had a brief solo run in New York before returning to Memphis. He soon joined forces with a group of Anglo-pop-obsessed musicians, fellow songwriter/guitarist Chris Bell, bassist Andy Hummel and drummer Jody Stephens, to form Big Star.

The group became the flagship act for the local Ardent Studios' new Stax-distributed label. Big Star’s 1972 debut album, #1 Record met with critical acclaim but poor sales. The group briefly disbanded, but reunited sans Bell to record the album Radio City. Released in 1974, the album suffered a similar fate, plagued by Stax’s distribution woes.

"I’m crushed. We’re all just crushed," said Ardent founder John Fry, who engineered most of the Big Star sessions. "This sudden death experience is never something that you’re prepared for. And yet it occurs."

The group made one more album, Third/Sister Lovers, with just Chilton and Stephens — and it too was a minor masterpiece. Darker and more complex than the band’s previous pop-oriented material, it remained unreleased for several years. In 2003, Rolling Stone magazine would name all three Big Star albums to its list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.

In the mid-'70s Chilton began what would be a polarizing solo career, releasing several albums of material, like 1979’s Like Flies on Sherbet — a strange, chaotically recorded album of originals and obscure covers that divided fans and critics. Chilton also began performing with local roots-punk deconstructionists the Panther Burns.

In the early '80s, Chilton left Memphis for New Orleans, where he worked a variety of jobs and stopped performing for several years. But interest in his music from a new generation of alternative bands, including R.E.M. and the Replacements, brought him back to the stage in the mid-'80s.

He continued to record and tour as a solo act throughout the decade. Finally, in the early '90s, the underground cult based around Big Star had become so huge that the group was enticed to reunite with a reconfigured lineup.

"It’s obvious to anybody that listens to his live performances or his body of recorded work, his tremendous talent as a vocalist and songwriter and instrumentalist," Fry said.

"Beyond the musical talent, he was an interesting, articulate and extremely intelligent person," Fry added. "I don't think you’d ever have a conversation with him of any length that you didn’t learn something completely new."

The band, featuring original member Stephens plus Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow of the Posies, continued to perform regularly over the next 16 years. Big Star became the subject of various articles, books and CD reissue campaigns, including the release of widely hailed box set, Keep an Eye on the Sky, released last year by Rhino Records.

"When some people pass, you say it was the end of an era. In this case, it’s really true," said Memphis singer-songwriter Van Duren, a Chilton contemporary in the Memphis rock scene of the '70s.

Chilton is survived by his wife, Laura, and a son Timothy.

Austin's Arc Angels Take Flight Once Again On Superb Live CD/DVD Set 'Living In A Dream'

The Arc Angels
Living In A Dream
Mark I Productions


Review by Nightwatcher


Formed in the aftermath of the tragic passing of Stevie Ray Vaughan when famed Double Trouble rhythm section Tommy Shannon (bass) and Chris "Whipper" Layton (drums) joined forces with young guitarists Doyle Bramhall II and Charlie Sexton, Austin'sThe Arc Angels never lived up to expectations the first time around.

After a promising start with the release of their 1992 self -titled Geffen Records debut, which drew widespread critical acclaim, and a subsequent tour which wowed audiences wherever the band played, the whole thing imploded. Due in no small part to ever growing chemical dependecy on the part of Bramhall combined with lack of communication with Sexton - which Shannon and Layton wanted no part of having recently gone through the same scenario before SRV had sobered up in the late 80's- the two factions went their separate ways following the tour in 1993, leaving one fantastic record and many incredible live musical memories in their wake.

And, for a long time, that seemed to be that. Shannon and Layton went on to join with Texas guitar star David Grissom in Storyville, releasing three albums before calling it a day in 1998. As Double Trouble, the two went on to be an in demand session team, being called upon to back artists such as Buddy Guy, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Albert Cummings and more. Meanwhile, Bramhall II got back on track with several critically acclaimed releases under both his own name and with his band Smokestack, which attracted the attention of rock legends Eric Clapton and Pink Floyd's Roger Waters, both of whom called on him to join their respective bands for tours and/or recording - the Clapton collaboration continuing off and on up to the present. Sexton continued on, working with Lucinda Williams and a high exposure gig with Bob Dylan before the four tested the waters once again, playing occasional Arc Angel reunion shows around Austin and Dallas in 2002.

In 2009 it was announced that the band would be touring extensively, and recording a second studio album, their first in over a decade in a half, albeit without Shannon. Replaced by bassist Mark Newmark for the reunion tour, who has subsequently been supplanted by Dave Monsey for (finally!) new studio recordings.

The first fruit of the renewed activity however is the release of the live CD/DVD 'Living In A Dream'. Recorded and filmed during the 2005 reunion, at performances at Stubbs in Austin, Texas, this package documents the original version of the band, including Tommy Shannon as they run through the majority of the 1992 studio offering. Also adding a cover of Muddy Waters' "She's Alright" and a brand new original by Sexton "Crave And Wonder", it demonstrates as reformations go, it's as if they never went away. Featuring the same pungent blues rock which made them popular in the first place, the performances are first rate all around, and clearly show that this is a band which still has plenty to offer.

Stellar production makes the songs come alive in more ways than one, and with the band in high gear, both the CD and DVD shine. Highlights abound throughout, with the Hendrix like vibe on the cover of Waters' "She's Alright" showcasing the considerable talents of Bramhall to excellent effect, as his solo is fierce and tough, and the vocal work, often in trade off between him and Sexton, is impeccable, flowing freely. Shannon and Layton display the same tight, hard driving rhythms which helped propel Stevie Ray Vaughan to legend, and after all these years they're still one of the top bass/drum duos in music today.

Presented in anamorphic wide screen, although it's not as glitzy as some higher budget productions, the DVD actually benefits from this, as the cuts and pans never distract from the music. There are a few random abstract shots due to the fact that some of the original footage of the shows weren't able to be filmed due to weather conditions, but it's certainly not a detriment as a whole. Extras include a 30 minute documentary which includes interviews and footage of the band and a 15 minute tribute to the legendary Austin blues club Antone's.

To round of the package, if that weren't enough, the package also contains a CD EP with three brand new studio recordings with new bassist Monsey that serve as a tantalizing teaser for what hopefully will turn into a full length album in the not too distant future. Two new originals, the Bramhall written "What I'm Looking For", a studio version of "Crave And Wonder" and a hard rocking cover version of Paul McCartney's "Too Many People" point towards a possible resurgence for the band, should they decide to pursue it, and are a welcome addition to this set, bringing it all up to the present.

Lavishly packaged, with an informative 16 page booklet telling the tale thus far, this release works as both a welcome return for long time fans and a wonderful introduction for new ones who may have come across the band in the years since their demise. Highly recommended for anyone who likes their rock on the bluesy side, you can buy this one without reservations. http://www.arcangelsmusic.com/

Guns N' Roses Cancel Gig After Stage Collapse

Guns N' Roses cancelled a second show in Brazil on Sunday (March 14) after heavy rain caused the venue's stage to collapse, injuring several crew members.

The band was due to perform at Rio de Janeiro's Apoteose Stadium but a severe storm which swept the city over the weekend March 13-14) forced the evacuation of the venue after the stage fell apart in the wild weather conditions.

The scrapped show came just days after GNR called off a private concert in Sao Paulo on Thursday March 11th) - with fans reportedly storming the stage at the club venue in protest. The band's show in the city on Saturday night March 12th) was also nearly called off, after frontman Axl Rose was pelted with bottles during the opening song.

Rose has issued a statement regarding the cancellation in Rio de Janeiro, apologizing to gig-goers and expressing relief that no one was seriously hurt when the stage collapsed.

The statement, posted on Twitlonger.com, reads, "The March 14th Guns N' Roses show in Rio De Janeiro at Apoteose Stadium has been officially cancelled for this evening due to the stage collapsing because of heavy rains. There is a possibility the show may be rescheduled for tomorrow night, March 15th or at a later date.

"There fortunately are no fatalities but there are injuries from both our camp and Rio crews, the extent of which is not known at present. The Rio Fire Dept is evacuating crews out of the venue to avoid further injuries with the heavy rains and winds."

Rose also revealed a truck carrying equipment for The Sebastian Bach Band, who have been opening for Guns N' Roses on the South American tour, was rolled over by strong winds, and they are waiting to hear about the condition of the driver.

He adds, "A truck w/part (which is carrying) The Sebastian Bach Band's gear has rolled on the trip from Sao Paulo to Rio what is our understanding several times (sic) and we are awaiting details on the safety of the driver at this time. Thank you for your understanding and please be safe out there. Thank you. Axl Rose."

Jeff Beck, Derek Trucks, Susan Tedeschi To Guest On Upcoming Herbie Hancock Album

The Imagine Project', the new CD from multiple Grammy-winning artist and musical pioneer Herbie Hancock, is an unprecedented international recording and film project featuring collaborations between music legend Herbie Hancock and over a dozen superstars from every region of the planet.

Utilizing the universal language of music to express its central themes of peace and global responsibility, the musical collaborations combine Hancock's genre-defying musical vision with the local musical identity of cultures from around the world. Additionally, noted Oscar-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney (Taxi To The Dark Side) is serving as one of the film's producers with veteran music producer Larry Klein serving as one of the album's producing consultants. 'The Imagine Project' is set for release June 22nd via Hancock Records/Red.

Tracks include "The Song Goes On" with Anoushka Shankar (sitarist daughter of Ravi Shankar), Chaka Khan and Wayne Shorter which was recorded in Mumbai, India, along with a stellar group of Indian musicians; "Don't Give Up", a duet recorded in London featuring Seal and Pink, "Imagine" with Konono No. l, Jeff Beck, Oumou Sangare and Lionel Louke recorded in Paris and London; "Tamatant Tilay/Exodus" featuring Tinariwen, "Times They Are A Changin'" featuring The Chieftains, Lionel Loueke and Lisa Hannigan recorded in Ireland; "Jackpot" with Dave Matthews and Marcus Miller, "Space Captain "�with Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi, "Mi Tierra" recorded with Latin superstar Juanes in Miami and a track with Brazilian singer-songwriter Ceu recorded in Sao Paulo.

Classic British Rockers Wishbone Ash Announce U.S. Tour Dates

Classic rock legends Wishbone Ash will be performing a select number of US dates on their current major world tour that began this past October. Wishbone Ash embarked on an intensive 6-month tour plan, a 'final fling' taking the band 'round to next July in celebration of the 40th anniversary of its long career.

The October tour of the UK began on the 2nd and ended the first week of November. Then in January 2010 the band hit the road again for the Netherlands, Germany and Scandinavia. Canada's blues prodigy, Jimmy Bowskill, opened for the band on this 6-week tour.

After playing Finland and France, the USA east coast tour begins on March 24th in Annapolis, MD and ends April 3rd in Milwaukee, WI. The band will then proceed to Switzerland and Italy just prior to the usual spring UK tour. A US west coast tour, plus a possible Far East visit in conjunction with a two night confirmed Tokyo appearance, is being discussed for June. Also confirmed for June are 3 stadium shows in South Africa with Deep Purple. In addition the band will be revisiting Warsaw and Poznan in Poland plus Prague in the Czech Republic.

Wishbone Ash's US tour dates are as followed:

March 24 - Ramshead Tavern - Annapolis, MD
March 25 - Sellersville Theater - Sellersville, PA
March 26 - Bull Run - Shirley, MA
March 27 - Boulton Theater - Bay Shore, NY
March 28 - Moondog's - Blawnox, PA
March 29 - Winchester Music Hall - Lakewood, OH
March 30 - Callahan's - Auburn Hills, MI
April 1 - Voodoo Cafe and Lounge - Maryland Heights, MO
April 2 - Fitzgerald's - Berwyn, IL
April 3 - Shank Hall - Milwaukee, WI

Founded in England in 1969, Wishbone Ash has released over 30 albums to date, and has been touted as one of the first dual-guitar rock bands, influencing the likes of Thin Lizzy and Iron Maiden and Lynyrd Skynyrd.

The group’s 1972 classic release Argus, which was voted ‘Album Of The Year’ by readers of UK’s Melody Maker and NME, was remixed and reissued in 2002 as a special 30th anniversary edition and consequently was Universal / MCA’s fastest selling reissue in the label’s history. In April there will be a new archive box set compilation 'Sometime World' on release from Universal / Island plus re-released versions of the band’s first 4 albums with deluxe artwork and additional liner notes.

Wishbone Ash "Blowin' Free" 2010 :

Founding Guitarist Micky Jones Of Welsh Rockers Man Passes Away At 63

Classic Rock is reporting that Micky Jones, one of the founders of Welsh rockers Man, has died aged 63.

Jones, who had been fighting a brain tumor, passed away at a care home in Swansea.

Merthyr Tydfil-born Jones was an ever-present member of Man, who grew out of a local combo called The Bystanders in 1968.

Man attracted a loyal following with their eccentric mix of West Coast psychedelia, prog, blues and country rock.

The band enjoyed their most successful period on the United Artists label in the early 1970s with albums such as Do You Like It Here Now, Are You Settling In?, Be Good To Yourself At Least Once A Day, Back Into The Future and Rhinos, Winos And Lunatics. Their 1975 album Maximum Darkness famously featured Quicksilver Messenger Service’s John Cipollina guesting on guitar.

Man split in 1976 and re-formed in 1983, until a brain tumor caused Jones’ departure in 2002.

Jones returned to Man briefly two years later but retired from touring and spent his last years in residential care.

Blues Rock Power Trio Firebird Mastering New Album For Summer Release

British blues rock power trio Firebird, featuring guitarist Bill Steer is currently mastering its new album, tentatively titled "Double Diamond", for a summer 2010 release. The CD features ten songs recorded at Graveland studios in 's-Graveland, Holland during January.

Firebird's fifth album, "Grand Union", was released in the U.S. on June 23, 2009 via Rise Above Records' new North American distribution deal with Metal Blade. The CD, which came out in Europe on April 20, 2009, was recorded and mixed over a two-week period in May 2008 at Berno studios in Malmö, Sweden where Firebird''s second album, 2001's "Deluxe", was conceived.

Pink Floyd Win EMI Court Battle Regarding Single Downloads

In a victory for the concept album, Britain's High Court has ordered record company EMI Group Ltd. to stop selling downloads of Pink Floyd tracks individually rather than as part of the band's original albums.

The group sued the music label, saying its contract prohibited selling the tracks "unbundled" from their original records. EMI claimed the rule applied only to physical albums, not the Internet.

Judge Andrew Morritt backed the band Thursday, saying a clause in the contract protected "the artistic integrity of the albums."

He ordered EMI to pay the band's legal costs and said he would rule later on damages.

Pink Floyd signed with EMI in 1967 and became one of its most lucrative acts, with its back catalog outsold only by The Beatles.

Tenpoint Release Official Video For "Killing Me"

Tenpoint, the project including vocalist Mike DiMeo (Riot, The Lizards, Masterplan) has released an official video for the song Killing Me. The song is featured on the band's
EP release 'Northern Rock'.

The band is currently in the preparation stages of recording its first official full length CD for which they are hoping for a summer 2010 release date. DiMeo just returned from Europe where he played keyboards and sang some cover tunes for Vinnie Moore (UFO) on the guitar legend's first solo tour of Europe.

DiMeo, regarded as one of the finest vocalists in the heavy rock scene, first came to prominence after joining the legendary New York City band Riot prior to the recording of 1994's "Nightbreaker". He went on to record six studio albums and one live album with the group before departing to join Masterplan for the recording of "MK II" in 2006.

Clapton Rejected Movie Script Where He Murdered Hendrix, Vaughan

Rock Radio UK is reporting that Eric Clapton murdered Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan – according to a movie script which the legendary guitarist was relieved to reject.

Slowhand says writing his autobiography cleared up many of the misunderstandings caused by drinking and drug-taking in his younger years. But it also saw an end to some outlandish semi-biographical projects, including the bizarre script in which he was responsible for the deaths of Hendrix in 1970 and Vaughan in 1990.

Clapton tells Rolling Stone: "I wrote my book to set the record straight on a lot of things, in terms of the way I drank and sobriety. People affected by my drinking have read the book. We've talked about the way it is now, to have relationships.

"My sobriety now is getting to be longer that my drinking period. I almost forgot the way I think and act now is different. There was a lot of unfinished business that needed to be cleared up, and amends made for. I'm so pleased I did it.

"But it wasn't just to let people know how it is for me now. Movie ideas have come up, biographical docudramas or whatever, that are so bizarre. You would laugh.

"There was one that came in, and the guy was adamant we should go with it. He wanted to make a movie about the fact that in order to be a virtuoso I had to kill all my idols.

"So I murdered Stevie Ray and Jimi – in order to be come this guitar hero.

"It was a full script based on this premise. He thought it was a great idea. If the autobiography wasn't out there and something happened to me...

"But now there's a testament that says, this is what happened and where. People have to respect that."

Peter Frampton And YES To Come Alive This Summer

AntiMusic is reporting that two of the most influential and ground-breaking artists of the 1970s- YES and Peter Frampton- are reuniting for a twenty-five city national co-headline summer tour, which kicks-off in early June and runs through the middle of July.

The two performed stadium shows together in 1976, including a show to more than 100,000 at JFK Stadium in Philadelphia. Tickets will go on sale for the June 16, Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Bethel, NY show on March 5. For additional ticket information please visit: www.yesworld.com or www.frampton.com.

The concerts will feature more than three hours of music from the Grammy Award winners, performances which are sure to include YES classics such as "I've Seen All Good People," "Starship Trooper," as well as Frampton hits "Show Me The Way," "Baby, I Love Your Way" and "Do You Feel Like We Do."

One of history's greatest, legendary, progressive rock bands, YES will feature a lineup of guitarist Steve Howe, bassist Chris Squire, and drummer Alan White, as well as Oliver Wakeman (son of Rick Wakeman) on keyboards and lead singer Benoit David. Songs that have left an indelible mark on rock 'n' roll history and a concert spectacular that has become synonymous with YES, make this tour one that should not be missed.

Frampton, who recently won a Grammy Award for his instrumental album Fingerprints, will be performing material from his forthcoming release Thank You Mr Churchill (April 27, A&M/New Door/UMe). Frampton's band will include Rob Arthur (keyboards, guitar and backing vocals) and John Regan (bass), as well as Adam Lester (guitar) and Dan Wojciechowski (drums).

YES's performance will include the hugely successful and indelible catalogue of music from hit albums such as Drama, Fragile, Close to the Edge and 90125. Classics such as "Roundabout," a seminal hit which consistently appears on "the best songs of all-time" lists, and the group's #1 hit "Owner of a Lonely Heart" are sure to be featured for an evening of music not to be missed.

One of the most popular concert attractions of all-time YES's remarkable career has served to re-define the boundaries of rock. As a dominant force for more than four decades, YES has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide. Their symphonic use of sound and innovative musical styles has made each of the group's players virtuosos in their own right.

Frampton remains one of the most celebrated artists and guitarists in rock history. Raised in London, Frampton taught himself to play guitar while still in single digits. He studied at the Bromley Technical School with classmate David Bowie (with whom he later recorded and toured). At 16, he was lead singer and guitarist for British teen band, the Herd. At 18, he co-founded one of the first super groups, seminal rock act Humble Pie. His fifth solo album, the electrifying Frampton Comes Alive!, is one of the top selling live records of all time. Frampton is so identified as the quintessential rocker, that he served as a consultant on Cameron Crowe's Almost Famous, Crowe's semi-autobiographical film about a teenage journalist covering the fictional rock band Stillwater.

YES/PETER FRAMPTON TOUR DATES (MORE TO BE ADDED)
June 16 Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT
June 18 Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Bethel, NY
June 19 Tower Theater, Upper Darby, PA
June 20 Meadows Racetrack and Casino, Meadow Lands, PA
June 23 Wolf Trap Foundation for Performing Arts, Vienna, VA
July 4 Lake Forest Venue, Blue Ash, OH
July 7 Sandia Casino, Albuquerque, NM
July 9 Greek Theatre, Los Angeles, CA
July 10 Harrah's Rincon-Open Sky Theater, Valley Center, CA

Although Not Perfect, The Genius Of Hendrix Still Shines Through On 'Valleys Of Neptune'

Jimi Hendrix
Valleys Of Neptune
Experience Hendrix

Review by Nightwatcher

Reviewing any posthumous Jimi Hendrix album is a task undertaken with mixed emotions.

As a fan, any new release is waited upon with heightened anticipation, with the hopes that
just possibly there will be a holy grail, something which hasn't been released before
which will allow one to gain heightened awareness and insight into the guitarist's psyche,
illuminating another facet which hitherto was previously buried.

Of course then there is the reality. That being that four decades on from his untimely passing
in 1970, after over a dozen official, literally hundreds of unofficial releases being put onto the
market there's probably just a slightly higher chance of that happening than a Republican
voting for health care reform.

So it goes with the release of the "brand new" release 'Valleys Of Neptune'. Heavily hyped as
being a treasure trove of unreleased tracks, the lead up singles released, of the title track and
a studio recording of "Bleeding Heart", a studio jam of the Elmore James blues classic, didn't
bring any new cosmic revelations, and could easily have been included in any of the previous
albums dropped either by former administrator of the Hendrix recordings, Alan Douglas, or the
current one headed by his half sister Janie.

Not that it's Jimi's fault, mind you. Bear in mind that had he lived, none of this would have
come out most likely in the form found here. But having said that, even though these
recordings - most of which feature the original Experience, three have Billy Cox in place of
Noel Redding on bass, one features Hendrix and other musicians - aren't on par with what's on
the proper original studio albums released before his passing, there's still enough of his genius
which shines through to make this a worthwhile addition to your collection.

A blazing version of "Hear My Train a Comin'", recorded like most of the album in 1969 after the release of ''Electric Ladyland' stands out. As is also the case with the 'Axis : Bold As Love' outtake "Mr. Bad Luck". An early version of "Look Over Yonder", the later version of which was included on 1971's 'Rainbow Bridge', the hard driving rocker has the feel and sound of the early Experience, and easily could have been included in the official release of 'Axis' with no ill effects. On the downside, an instrumental version of Cream's "Sunshine Of Your Love" starts off well, but in the middle breaks down a bit, and the versions of "Stone Free", "Fire" and "Red House" pale in comparison to the originals. Two other instrumentals, "Lullaby For The Summer", with its psychedelic stereo panning and the 12 bar blues "Crying Blue Rain" which ends the album shows plenty of promise, but one can only think how much more the guitarist would have done with them had he the chance.

The most amazing thing is that after so much time, there's actually still enough material left to pull off a for the most part satisfactory album. When you consider all the packages which have come out before, and still there's more, it's astounding how much was put on tape in a span of only three years.

For his part,to give him his due, producer Eddie Kramer has done a superb job in getting these tracks ready for release. The sound is uniformly excellent, the tracks don't sound a bit dated, and as a whole the sequencing is well thought out, resulting in a very pleasant listening experience.

The bottom line here though is whether you should part with your hard earned cash for this album, and ultimately, although not perfect by any means, the answer is yes. Particularly if you already have the original studio albums from '67-70. If however for some reason you don't, do not pass go, do not collect $200.00 - just go as fast as you can and buy 'Are You Experienced', the aforementioned 'Axis' and 'Electric Ladyland'. Those, and the live 'Band Of Gypsys' are where the true genius of Hendrix lies.

Paul McCartney To Quit Touring At 70

Paul McCartney is preparing for one final farewell tour.

Reports are suggesting that the former Beatle is set to anounce dates.

Gossip in the weekend newspapers point in this direction with The Sunday Mail claiming the former Beatle is to play Hampden Park in Glasgow which would be his first Scotish return Scotland in nearly twenty years.

This would all be part of the farewell to live performance, which will take place right up until his 70th birthday in June 2012.

"Paul has always loved playing in Glasgow since his early days with the Beatles," an "insider" told the paper. "He has a great affection for Scotland and his home in Mull of Kintyre in particular."

"The Hampden show will spark off many emotion and memories for him. It will be one of his greatest gigs ever."

Further details of McCartney's mooted "farewell tour" are expected to be released in the next couple of days.

Initial dates are:

Sunday 13 June - Isle Of Wight Festival
Sunday 20 June - Hampden Park, Glasgow
Saturday 26 June - Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
Sunday 27 June - Hyde Park Calling, London

The Black Keys Announce New Album Details

The Black Keys have announced details of their sixth studio album, set for release in May.

The blues-rock duo, having released a rap/rock crossover as Blakroc last November featuring collaborators including Mos Def, and Ludacris, will release 'Brothers' on May 18.

The album was recorded at the Muscle Shoals Sound studio in Alabama, with further sessions at Akron's Easy Eye Sound System studio and Brooklyn's Bunker. The album features a cover of Jerry Butler's 'Never Gonna Give You Up'.

Danger Mouse, who produced the band's last album as The Black Keys, 'Attack And Release', has produced one song ('Tighten Up') and producer/engineer Mark Neill has contributed. The rest was produced by the band themselves.

Patrick Carney, one half of the band, said, "Dan [Auerbach, fellow band member] and I grew up a lot as individuals and musicians prior to making this album. Our relationship was tested in many ways but at the end of the day, we're brothers, and I think these songs reflect that."

'Brothers' Tracklisting :

"Everlasting Light"
"Next Girl"
"Tighten' Up"
"Howlin' For You"
"She's Long Gone"
"Black Mud"
"The Only One"
"Too Afraid To Love You"
"Ten Cent Pistol"
"Sinister Kid"
"The Go Getter"
"I'm Not The One"
"Unknown Brother"
"Never Gonna Give Up On You"
"These Days"

Disabled AC/DC Fan Impaled In Mosh Pit In Australia

A quadriplegic AC/DC fan suffered serious facial injuries when a mate accidentally hit the joystick of his motorized wheelchair and catapulted him into the mosh pit during a concert at the Queensland Sport and Athletic Centre on Saturday night.

Witnesses said a metal pin used by the 31-year-old Morningside man to manoeuvre objects became a spear and embedded in his eye as his chair crashed more than a meter to the centre's floor.

QSAC faces criticism for not placing a proper barrier in front of the special wheelchair podium that would have prevented the accident.

The incident happened about 10pm as more than 45,000 fans danced to the legendary Aussie rockers during the second of their two sold-out Brisbane shows.

The man's friend moved his left hand when it struck the joystick and the wheelchair shot forward and fell end over end.

"He was shattered, just devastated by what happened," a person said of the distraught mate.

Paramedics immediately attended the quadriplegic, a former truck driver who became paralyzed after an accident.

A Princess Alexandra Hospital official said the man was out of intensive care yesterday but was still in a serious, but stable condition. He had no information on whether the man had lost an eye.

For more info go to this location.

Joe Bonamassa, Glenn Hughes "Supergroup" No Longer Has A Name

The Joe Bonamassa, Glenn Hughes, Jason Bonham, Derek Sherinian project is currently without a name. Forget everything you may have read about the Bonamassa supergroup being called Black Country. Another band by than name is objecting to them using it.

“There is a band already called Black Country and their legal representatives have already reminded us of that fact,” Joe tells undercover.com.au.

The group is working through negotiations to see if they can acquire the name so right now they are nameless. Bonamassa tells Undercover that the name was never have meant to have been made public when it was. “It jumped out of the gun. It got leaked inadvertently and it has spread like wildfire,” he tells Undercover. “It wasn’t anybody’s fault, it just got leaked. Somebody overheard a conversation. The definition of overhearing a conversation is putting it online and acting if its fact”.

It will definitely not be a Joe Bonamassa record. “It is a rock record,” he explains. “I play through Marshall amps and I may grow my hair down to my ankles and wear leather pants but that's up to negotiation. Until we have a finished album it is hard to comment how it will turn out. The five tracks we have done sound great but we need to put a further five or six down of that quality before we have something”.

“We will finish this thing in March and we’ll have a united, clear-cut name. It is still a work in progress.”

It also hasn’t been decided if this band will go on the road. “Touring is based on demand. We will wait until the record comes out and see how everyone likes it,” he says. “I think the album is going to be good and I am really excited about it. Working with those guys is a thrill. Everybody is a strong personality”.