Benefit Bugs, a special musical event and auction in honor of Bugs Henderson, will be held at the Palladium Ballroom, 1135 South Lamar Street in Dallas, Sunday, March 4, with doors opening at 1:00 p.m. Several friends and guitar legends, including Andy Timmons,Van Wilks, Lance Lopez, David Grissom, Paul Reed Smith and others have announced they will be playing together at Benefit Bugs to help Texas guitar legend, Bugs Henderson with his medical expenses and his fight against cancer. Tickets, priced from $25-$75, are now on sale at www.AXS.com, or charge by phone at 888-929-7849.
Bugs Henderson has been a Dallas-area blues music institution since moving there from Tyler, TX. He came to Dallas in order to join the scene of a bar called The Cellar in the early 1970s. From there he moved on to playing theatres and arenas, opening and playing with guitar icons including B.B. King, Freddie King, Ted Nugent, Johnny Winter, Roy Buchanan and Eric Clapton.
Many of the best blues guitarists, including Clapton and King would go see Henderson play as they viewed him as one of the best.
Guitar Player Magazine stated, "Bugs Henderson should be declared a national treasure."
All Music Guide says of Henderson's 1994 release 'Daredevils Of The Red Guitar', "This is the stuff guitar heroes are made of".
A partial list of the musicians who have signed up to play at Benefit Bugs follows:
1.The Forever Fabulous Chicken Hawks 2. Marc Benno 3. Ray Wylie Hubbard 4. Jimmy Wallace & The Stratoblasters 5. Smokin Joe Kubek 6. Johnny Hiland 7. Jr and The Journeyman featuring Kirby Kelly 8. Dave Millsap 9. Bill Ham 10. Rhett Butler 11. Paul Reed Smith 12. David Grissom 13. Quinten Hope 14. Anson Funderburgh 15. Maylee Thomas 16. Lance Lopez 17. Mouse and The Traps 18. Brady Mosher 19. Van Wilks 20. Danny Sanchez 21. Andy Timmons 22. Bo and Jim Frontal Lobotomy Boogie Band 23. Jamie Oldecker 24. Nitzinger 25. Mike Morgan 26. Mike Rhyner 27. Jason Elmore
Those who would like to make a donation may do so by going to PayPal and enter email address benefitbugs@gmail.com
In a statement released on his official website, founding Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward has issued an update regarding the current contract situation which the band is currently embroiled in regarding his participation in the upcoming reunion album and subsequent tour.
The statement, which also alludes to the grassroots Facebook effort 1,000,000 Black Sabbath fans say yes to Bill Ward, launched as a direct response to reports that Ward was being replaced for the aforementioned album and tour, is as follows :
"Dear Sabbath Fans,
I wanted to let you know where things are at, from my point of view, as of today, February 17, 2012.
As my statement of February 2, 2012 indicated, I have not declined to participate in the Sabbath album and tour. At the earliest opportunity, I am prepared to go to the U.K. and record, and later tour with the band.
Last week, we sent further communication to the attorney handling the negotiations to try to reach an agreement. At this time we are waiting to hear back. I remain hopeful for a “signable” contract and a positive outcome.
I want to thank everyone who has voiced and posted their opinions, thoughts, support and love through all media, including the newly constructed sites. I applaud your worldwide reaction in support of the original band. And speaking for myself, your intent and truth will always be respected.
While believing in your freedom for expression, keep in mind that Tony, Ozzy and Geezer are still my lifetime friends, and I cannot support comments with an objectifying or derogatory theme toward them or their various representatives.
Many thanks to all of you. You are truly phenomenal.
The impressive U.K success of blues rock guitar titan Joe Bonamassa seems to have rekindled a renewed interest in the genre by young musicians throughout the British Isles. Whether that be in an attempt to hit the charts or a genuine love for the music itself, it's a boon for those inclined towards soulful vocals and killer blues guitar licks in a rocking setting.
One of the latest to come crawling out of the woodwork are Manchester, England's Federal Charm, who have as of December released their first self titled EP. Consisting of 6 tracks, the offering is a strong, well produced effort which should please fans of the blues rock persuasion quite nicely. Gleaning influences from Led Zeppelin, Free, Hendrix, RATM, SRV, Black Country Communion, Glenn Hughes and others, based on this evidence this is a band whom quite possibly may be on to much bigger things in the not too distant future.
One can listen to the entire 6 track EP below :
Federal Charm performing "You've Gotta Give It Up" from the EP live at The Roadhouse in Manchester, England :
For more information on Federal Charm go to this location.
Gibson.com is reporting that Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger is following the likes of Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan and Sir Paul McCartney this month by playing a gig for President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle at the White House.
The Rolling Stones frontman is set to join artists including Jeff Beck, B.B. King, Keb’ Mo’ and Buddy Guy for an event celebrating the blues in the latest musical gathering featuring different musical genres at the White House, billed In Performance at the White House. The show, directed by Booker T. Jones of Booker T. and the M.G.’s, will take place on February 21 and be televised by PBS public television on February 27. The president also will deliver special remarks at the event. The concert will stream live at http://www.whitehouse.gov/live.
Los Angeles based singer Beth Hart has confirmed she will play the Isle of Wight festival on Sunday 24th June, alongside Bruce Springsteen, Joan Armatrading and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.
She headlines the London Shepherd’s Bush Empire on Saturday 25th February. Shepherds Bush will be Beth’s biggest UK headline concert to date.
Her latest album, “Don’t Explain”, released world wide last September via J&R Adventures is a collection of soul classics with blues rock guitar titan Joe Bonamassa. A limited edition of “Don’t Explain”, featuring 4 previously unheard acoustic tracks, will be released on February 20th by Provogue Records. Hart's new single, “Sister Heroine”, features Slash (Guns N Roses/Velvet Revolver).
To read a recent interview conducted with Hart detailing 'Don't Explain' go to this location.
Beth Hart "Sister Heroine" (featuring Slash)
Beth Hart appearing with Joe Bonamassa at The Beacon Theatre November 5, 2011
Classic Rock magazine is reporting that although the late guitar wizard Tommy Bolin passed away at the age of 25 in 1976, a new album is set for release out March 26. 'Great Gypsy Soul' features features outtakes and alternate versions of his solo material, with current musicians playing and singing along to Bolin’s own guitar and vocal recordings. The high profile list includes contributions from Peter Frampton, Joe Bonamassa, Warren Haynes, Steve Lukather, Glenn Hughes, Brad Whitford, Derek Trucks and many others,
Here’s the track listing for the CD:
The Grind (with Peter Frampton) Teaser (Warren Haynes) Dreamer (Myles Kennedy, Nels Cline) Savannah Woman (John Scofield) Smooth Fandango (Derek Trucks) People, People (Big Sugar and Gordie Johnson) Wild Dogs (Brad Whitford) Homeward Strut (Steve Lukather) Sugar Shack (Glenn Hughes and Sonny Landreth) Crazed Fandago (Steve Morse) Lotus (with Joe Bonamassa, Glenn Hughes, Nels Cline)
There’s also a deluxe edition, with the following tracks on a bonus CD:
Flying Fingers (Oz Noy and Nels Cline) Marching Bag – Movement One (Nels Cline, Tommy Bolin, Greg Hampton, John Scofield, Sonny Landreth) Marching Bag – Movement Two (Nels Cline, Tommy Bolin, Steve Lukather, Derek Trucks, Peter Frampton) Marching Bag – Movement Three (Gordie Johnson, Tommy Bolin, Nels Cline, Oz Noy, Steve Lukather, Steve Morse, Joe Bonamassa) Marching Bag – Movement Four (Nels Cline, Tommy Bolin, Warren Haynes, Joe Bonamassa, Oz Noy, Brad Whitford, Peter Frampton)
Rumors were swirling around the Internet today suggesting that Black Sabbath have replaced original drummer Bill Ward with Tommy Clufetos from the Ozzy Osbourne band. These rumors have not been confirmed by the band or management. However fans are rallying around Ward and have launched a new Facebook page dubbed 1,000,000 Black Sabbath Fans Say Yes To Bill Ward. https://www.facebook.com/pages/1000000-Black-Sabbath-fans-say-yes-to-Bill-Ward/387229524625706
Black Sabbath recently moved writing sessions for their long-awaited reunion album from Los Angeles to Birmingham, England due to guitarist Tony Iommi's treatment for lymphoma. Drummer Bill Ward is currently in a public battle with his old mates "unless a “signable contract is drawn up" he stated recently and has refused to join the rest of the band.
The remaining trio (Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler) responded by saying that "we have no choice but to continue recording without him although our door is always open. We are still in the UK with Tony. Writing and recording the new album and on a roll."
Black Sabbath (with Ward) "Children Of The Grave" live at the California Jam 1974
Sony Music in association with Capo Records and Legacy are proud to re-issue the first six original Rory Gallagher albums in chronological release date order – “Rory Gallagher” (1971), “Deuce” (1971), “Live In Europe!” (1972), “Blueprint” (1973), “Tattoo” (1973) and “Irish Tour ’74” (1974). These seminal re-issued albums celebrate 40 years since the start of Rory’s solo career.
Rory Gallagher was a musician like no other. He was, and still is, one of the world’s greatest guitarists, singers, song writers and live showmen. His music lives on through generations of today’s hottest guitarists including Slash, Joe Bonamassa, Brian May, Johnny Marr and The Edge; and also through his amazing catalogue including some of his finest works included in this collection of releases, his first six albums.
These milestone albums were released during Rory's most prolific years (1971-74), when he recorded and produced 6 albums in a 3 year period. Each of the albums is now re-released in digipack form, with artwork restored from the original first release cover art. The audio has been re-mastered from the original ¼” inch tapes. Each album includes exclusive sleeve notes written by Donal Gallagher; Rory’s brother and former tour manager, legendary photographer Mick Rock, and British journalist Roy Hollingworth.
As Daniel Gallagher, Rory’s Nephew and producer of the re-issues states, “It's fantastic that 40 years since the original release of these albums the interest in Rory's music is still so strong and vibrant that we can celebrate the man's music by re-issuing his first six classic solo albums. We've aimed to release them in the spirit of the original release by going back to the vinyl artwork and original 1/4" tapes so that they look and sound exactly as Rory intended. It's also great to see in a digital world that the demand for a physical copy of Rory's music means we can release these albums on vinyl for the first time in over 30 years.”
Former RIOT vocalist Mike DiMeo, who recorded six studio albums and one live album with the band between 1994 and 2006 has issued the following statement regarding the passing of the band's founding guitarist Mark Reale, who passed away January 25th in a San Antonio hospital due to complications of Crohn's disease — an ailment he has battled for most of his life. He was 56 years old.
"I'm deeply saddened by the death of Mark Reale. He was a gifted songwriter, great musician and a true friend. I am honored and thankful that I shared many years with Mark touring and recording all over the world, memories that I will carry with me forever. Even though to some it may seem that he did not achieve massive commercial success, the only thing that Mark cared about was making music that inspired him. He was a true artist and his music is a reflection of that. To me, Mark's music is timeless... and I believe his many fans will see to it that his music lives on forever... Rest In Peace Mark.... I will miss you..... and Shine On!"
Reale had reportedly been in a coma for the past two weeks after suffering a subarachnoid hemorrhage on January 11.
Born in Los Angeles, California in 1972, it's quite clear that Beth Hart was born to be a musician.
Beginning to play piano at age four, she later attended L.A.'s High School for the Performing Arts as a vocal and cello major.
From classic female vocalists such as Dinah Washington, Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald, singer songwriters as Carole King to the heavy metal rumblings of Black Sabbath and Rush, Hart naturally soaked up all the musical influences around her.
Often compared to the late rock legend Janis Joplin, whom she portrayed in the theatrical production of 'Love Janis' in 1999, its more due to her ballsy, no holds barred approach to singing rather than being a copyist which draws such comparisons.
Signing to Atlantic's Lava imprint, Hart issued her debut album, 'Immortal', in 1996. Her sophomore album, 'Screamin' For My Supper' released in 1999, saw her influenced by a deep love for the blues stylings of the great Etta James. The album was also notable for spawning top 5 Adult Contemporary Chart hit in "L.A. Song(Out Of This Town)",the success of which spurred on by its inclusion in episode 17 of the final season of mega popular TV show Beverly Hills 90210.
Subsequent albums, such as 2003's 'Leave The Light On' and 2007's hard rockin' '37 Days' continued to exhibit a musical maturity lyrically informed by autobiographical tales.
The live CD/DVD 'Live at Paradiso', released in 2005 demonstrated firmly that not only was Hart an impressive singer/songwriter, but that she was able to deliver the goods live. A stunning example of rock showmanship, it ranked her among the elite of her craft, attracting such admirers as British guitar god Jeff Beck and ex Guns N Roses axeman Slash. Around this same time she also contributed a smoldering performance on the album 'Les Paul & Friends : American Made World Played' accompanied by Journey/Santana legend Neal Schon on "I Wanna Know You".
In 2010 she recorded and released her latest solo release to date, the thought provoking 'My California' . A showcase of vignettes gleaned once again from Hart's personal experiences, including the poignant "Sister Heroine", an ode to her sister whom she lost to drug addiction, it proved that 14 years into her career, at a time when many have peaked, she was just hitting her stride.
Earlier this year she worked for the first time with blues rock guitar titan Joe Bonamassa, providing the background vocals on the track "No Love On The Street", from the guitarist's latest solo album 'Dust Bowl'. Recorded during the same time as the sessions for the duo's brand new release of blues and soul classics,'Don't Explain'' which hopefully will be a catalyst for a long, fruitful working relationship for many years to come.
Releasing an album of cover versions is always a dicey proposition due to obvious comparisons to the originals, yet Hart and Bonamasssa, more than ably assisted by uber producer Kevin Shirley (Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, The Black Crowes, Joe Bonamassa) have deftly conjured up a sound all their own.
Weaving their own sonic tapestry, Hart's sultry and seductive vocals combine with Bonamassa's mastery of blues rock guitar to breathe new life into such classics such as Etta James' "I'd Rather Go Blind", Ray Charles' "Sinner's Prayer" as well as unique interpretations of such material as Tom Waits' "Chocolate Jesus" and Delaney & Bonnie's "Well, Well", resulting in one of the finest releases to grace 2011. A testament of which being the fact that the album has just been nominated for 'Contemporary Blues Album Of The Year' at the 33rd Blues Music Awards, to be held May 10, 2012 in Memphis, TN.
Recently we were able to catch up with Beth at home in Los Angeles to discuss her thoughts on the album, her philosophy regarding her music, what she has in store for the future, and much, much more. Please join us as we have a candid conversation with one of rock's most talented vocalists, Ms. Beth Hart. Click here for the exclusive interview.
Beth Hart with Joe Bonamassa, "I'll Take Care Of You" The Beacon Theatre, New York City 2011
Ever since joining heavy metal legends Riot back in 1993, vocalist Mike
DiMeo has been responsible for some of the most soulful vocals laid down
in the modern metal scene. Beginning with 1994's 'Nightbreaker', DiMeo
soon found his footing, contributing not only fantastic vocals, but also
well thought out lyrics which are some of the most articulate in the
melodic power metal genre. Before leaving in 2006, he ended up recording
six studio albums and one live album with the group, consolidating his
stature as one of the finest vocalists around.
Another testament
to his considerable vocal talents is the fact that the Long Island
native was tapped by then Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore to
work on their 25th Anniversary album 'The Battle Rages On,' going as far
as recording sessions for the album before record company pressures
brought Ian Gillan back into the band, leaving DiMeo somewhat the odd
man out at the time.
In 2004 the most versatile frontman joined
up with ex Rainbow, B.O.C. and Sabbath drummer Bobby Rondinelli,
guitarist Patrick Klein and bassist Randy Pratt in The Lizards for the
excellent 'Cold Blooded Kings' album, eventually recording two further
studio albums with the band, 'Against All Odds' (featuring several duets
with Black Country Communion's Glenn Hughes), the covers album
'Archaeology' and the live DVD '4-2-11'. In 2006, he replaced vocalist
Jorn Lande for the recording of power metallers Masterplan's 'Mk II'.
One
facet of DiMeo's musical abilities many of his fans in the metal and
hard rock scene might not be aware of is his impressive skills as a
keyboardist. From supplying Jon Lord stylings on the Lizards' releases
,being part of Andy Aledort & The Groove Kings, to him being part of
the touring bands of Tommy James and The Shondells and Bonnie Tyler,
the vocalist is finding himself increasingly in demand as a session
player. Evidenced by the fact that he was asked to contribute on all
tracks of the brand new release 'Roots' by albino blues rock legend
Johnny Winter, even appearing live as part of the band for the CD
release party in New York City.
Recently we had the wonderful
opportunity to catch up with Mike shortly after his appearance with
Winter at the bluesman's album release party. Come read with us as we
have an exclusive conversation with one of the finest vocalists on the
hard rock/metal scene, Mike DiMeo..Click here for the interview.
Music legends and former YES members Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman will be playing a select number of engagements this coming Fall 2011. The legendary duo performed a series of successful concerts in the UK in 2010 in support of their critically acclaimed CD release 'The Living Tree', and are now bringing their highly anticipated show to America.
Having worked together on and off since 1971's groundbreaking YES masterwork 'Fragile', Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman have traveled similar musical paths that have eventually and happily led their careers back together again! Now once again, the duo promise a magical evening of music and humor for all who attend! “Expect a night of music, full of YES classics and new adventures in song from 'The Living Tree' album and moments of brilliance, humor and affection borne from a friendship and musical partnership that has lasted 40 years”, says Jon. "We knew from the responses on the last YES tour that the acoustic section was extremely popular and that many of the pieces could be re-arranged and adapted to make very interesting and hopefully enjoyable new ways of playing YES music and our own music," adds Rick.
The tour is being produced by Metropolitan Talent Presents and is booked by Keith Naisbitt of Los Angeles based Agency for the Performing Arts. John Scher co-CEO of Metropolitan says, "We are incredibly proud to be presenting the North American debut of this legendary duo! Jon and Rick ARE the voice and sound of YES, as well as famously successful solo performers! This tour will be areal treat for their legions of fans."
The Anderson Wakeman Fall 2011 Tour Dates: 10/19/11 - Potawatomi Casino - Milwaukee, WI 10/22/11 - Carnegie Music Hall of Homestead - Munhall, PA 10/23/11 - Lisner Auditorium - Washington, DC 10/24/11 - Concert Hall - New York, NY 10/26/11 - Kleinhans Music Hall - Buffalo, NY 10/27/11 - The Palace Theatre - Albany, NY 10/29/11 - Tropicana Casino Resort - Atlantic City, NJ 10/30/11 - Temple Performing Arts Center - Philadelphia, PA 11/01/11 - Capitol Center for the Arts - Concord, NH 11/02/11 - The Ridgefield Playhouse - Ridgefield, CT 11/04/11 - Count Basie Theatre - Red Bank, NJ 11/05/11 - Sherman Theatre - Stroudsburg, PA 11/06/11 - Theatre at Westbury - Westbury, NY 11/08/11 - Hanover Theatre - Worcester, MA 11/10/11 - Grande Theatre du Quebec - Quebec City, QC, Canada 11/12/11 - St. Denis Theatre - Montreal, QC, Canada For more information: www.JonAnderson.com www.RWCC.com www.voiceprint.co.uk,www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk
Black Country Communion, the Anglo - American hard rock supergroup consisting of vocalist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Trapeze), blues rock guitar titan Joe Bonamassa, drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin, UFO, Foreigner) and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Alice Cooper, Billy Idol) have released the trailer for the upcoming DVD release 'Live Over Europe'.
The DVD is set for a release date worldwide October 24, 2011.
The band's latest Kevin Shirley (Led Zeppelin, Black Crowes, Aerosmith) produced studio album 2', released June 13, 2011 via J&R Adventures/Mascot reached #23 on the UK Album Charts and #71 on the U.S. Billboard Top 200 Album Charts upon release.
Born in Manchester, England in 1977, raised on a steady diet of his
father's Muddy Waters and B.B. King records, it perhaps should not come
as no surprise that Matt Schofield would grow up to become a world class
blues guitarist.
It was after seeing a video at the age of 16 of blues legends
Albert King, Albert Collins and Stevie Ray Vaughan that the fledgling
musician chose a path which during the course of four studio and two
live albums has seen him garner many prestigious awards. Not least of
which has been his being voted as the "Best British Blues Guitarist" at
the inaugural 2010 British Blues Awards.
Now Schofield is back with what is being hailed as his most polished
and accomplished effort yet with the release of 'Anything But Time'.
Produced by the legendary John Porter, whose resume resembles a
veritable who's who of rock and blues, having produced such legends as
Buddy Guy, B.B. King, John Lee Hooker among many others - it showcases
the guitarist's quite impressive blues and jazz influenced guitar work
framed by extremely strong songwriting, which very well may see him
picking up even more awards by the time next year rolls around.
Recently we had the wonderful opportunity to sit down with Matt in
California during a break in the tour by the Matt Schofield Trio to talk
about the new album, his influences and inspiration, what he envisions
for his future and much, much more. Come join us as we have an exclusive
conversation with one of the leading purveyors of modern blues rock
guitar, Mr. Matt Schofield.....
Click here for the interview.
Legendary guitarist Leslie West has undergone surgery in Biloxi, MS. West had flown in to Mississippi to perform at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino with his band Mountain.
On Saturday, his leg began to swell, and as a diabetic he was rushed to the emergency room. He was diagnosed with the decision to go through an amputation in order to save his life. Surgery was a success, and the procedure removed his limb up to the knee.
West is expected to fully recover, and faces extensive rehabilitation. The family has requested that the public and media respect his privacy while he comes to terms with this life changing transition.
Anglo -American Hard Rock Supergroup Black Country Communion, featuring vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes (Deep
Purple, Black Sabbath, Trapeze), drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin),
keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater) and blues rock guitar titan Joe
Bonamassa have just released the first video 'Man In The Middle' from the soon to be released 'Black Country Communion 2'.
The album will will be officially released in the U.K. and Europe on June 13 and in North America on June 14 via J&R Adventures.
According to HMV Japan and Amazon Japan, legendary guitarist Michael Schenker will release a new album titled "Temple Of Rock" on July 27 in Japan.
The CD will reportedly feature guest appearances by the following musicians:
* Slash (GUNS N' ROSES, VELVET REVOLVER) - Guitar
* Rudolf Schenker (SCORPIONS) - Guitar
* Pete Way (UFO) - Bass
* Neil Murray (BLACK SABBATH, WHITESNAKE) - Bass
* Chris Glen (MSG) - Bass
* Simon Phillips (TOTO, THE WHO, JUDAS PRIEST) - Drums
* Carmine Appice (KING KOBRA, VANILLA FUDGE, ROD STEWART, JEFF BECK, OZZY OSBOURNE, BLUE MURDER) - Drums
* Chris Slade (AC/DC) - Drums
* Don Airey (DEEP PURPLE, RAINBOW) - Keyboards
* Michael Voss - Vocals
* Myles Kennedy (ALTER BRIDGE, SLASH) - Vocals
"Temple Of Rock" track listing:
01. Intro
02. How Long
03. The End Of An Era
04. Saturday Night
05. Fallen Angel
06. Hangin' On
07. With You
08. Miss Claustrophobia
09. Scene Of Crime
10. Lovers Sinfony-Speed
11. Stormin' In
12. Speed
13. Before The Devil Knows You're Dead
14. How Long (guitar battle version)
15. Remember (bonus track for Japan)
The story goes that Jimi Hendrix was once asked what it was like to be the greatest guitarist in the world, to which he replied, “I don’t know, go ask Rory Gallagher!”
Rory Gallagher (1948-1995) is simply one of the all-time guitar greats. Slash, The Edge, Brian May, Johnny Marr, Janick Gers, Ritchie Blackmore, Glenn Tipton and Vivian Campbell have all said it. Since practically inventing the Power Trio format in Taste (both Cream and Taste debuted in 1966), Gallagher’s music has stood the test of time and he’s as popular now as he ever was, his influence gargantuan.
The story of Rory’s lost San Francisco album actually starts in Japan. In November 1977, after a grueling six-month world tour, the band flew straight from their last show in Japan to San Francisco to begin working on a new album with famed American producer Elliot Mazer (who worked on Neil Young’s Harvest, Big Brother & The Holding Company’s Cheap Thrills and The Band’s The Last Waltz). Mazer recalls the sessions grew “tense,” as Gallagher thought the mixing process “too complicated.” By the end of January 1978, he had shelved the whole record and broke up his band of the past five years.
Fast forward to 2011 when Rory’s brother/manager Donal allowed his son Daniel to recover the album from the Gallagher archive and begin the process of mixing it with his engineer. Rory said in 1992 he hoped the album would surface one day but only if it were remixed. Bingo. Hearing this historic never-before-issued studio album from a key period of Gallagher’s career (the album that would have been released between Calling Card and Photo Finish) is the Holy Grail for Rory’s fans.
CD #2 is another fabulous discovery: a blistering live album taken from four December nights in 1979 at San Francisco’s The Old Waldorf. In the audience Van Morrison, on stage Rory Gallagher (guitar/vocals), Gerry McAvoy (bass) and Ted McKenna (drums). Daniel Gallagher chose to add the live side to highlight why Rory chose to shelve the studio album and reduce his band back down to a three-piece. Rory, after seeing The Sex Pistols at Winterland during final mixes for his own album, was struck by the stark drama and blunt primitivism of pure punk. “It was as close to Eddie Cochran as you’re going to get,'' he enthused. He had been saying that he wanted to get back to what he called “meat’n’potato rock’n’roll,” a stripped-back primal raw immediacy hearkening back to his Taste days.
A street has been named after him in Paris; a corner in Dublin; a statue in his Ballyshannon birthplace, where The International Rory Gallagher Tribute Festival is held. There’s a Rory Gallagher Place and Rory Gallagher Music Library in Cork. Annual tributes are held in Germany and Japan. The man has sold in excess of 20 million albums. Notes From San Francisco will be a worthy addition to his canon.
Track Listing:
CD1
1. Rue The Day
2. Persuasion
3. B Girl
4. Mississippi Sheiks
5. Wheels Within Wheels
6. Overnight Bag
7. Cruise On Out
8. Brute Force & Ignorance
9. Fuel To The Fire
BONUS TRACKS
10. Wheels Within Wheels (Alt version)
11. Cut A Dash
12. Out On The Tiles
CD2
1. Follow Me
2. Shinkicker
3. Off The Handle
4. Bought And Sold
5. I’m Leavin’
6. Tattoo’d Lady
7. Do You Read Me
8. Country Mile
9. Calling Card
10. Shadow Play
11. Bullfrog Blues
12. Sea Cruise
Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Black Country Communion) will release his long-awaited autobiography, "Deep Purple And Beyond: Scenes From The Life Of A Rock Star", on May 12 via Foruli Publications. The book, co-written with Joel McIver and featuring an introduction by Metallica's Lars Ulrich, will appear in a luxury first edition complete with rare photos and an exclusive 10-inch vinyl EP featuring the following all-new recordings:
* "What Is A Woman's Role?" (Trapeze, written by Hughes)
* "Holy Man" (Deep Purple, written by Hughes, David Coverdale, Jon Lord)
* "Dying To Live" (brand new acoustic Glenn Hughes track)
A launch event for the book will be led on May 12 in London, England. The evening will feature a solo acoustic set by Glenn, a preview of the book packages, and the opportunity to meet Glenn, co-author Joel McIver and the team at Foruli.
Anybody who would like to enter a draw to receive an invitation to the event should please email their name and the title of the first track on the first Black Country Communion album to: glennlaunch@foruli.co.uk. All entries will be entered into a draw to receive one of twenty invitations to this exclusive event.
For those that pre-ordered, your invite will be arriving shortly via email.
Hughes previously said about the book, "My autobiography is going to be a literary event. I've been working on this book for the last three years and you've never read anything like it. It's the true story of the Voice Of Rock, 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."
"Deep Purple And Beyond: Scenes From The Life Of A Rock Star" features contributions from Hughes' friend and comrade in Deep Purple David Coverdale, his lifelong musical collaborator Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath and a host of others, including Angie Bowie, John Varvatos and the members of THE KLF (with whom Hughes scored a global hit in 1991).
The publisher, Foruli Publications, is a globally-recognized specialist in collectable, high-quality books.
Guitarist Angus Young of Australian hard rockers AC /DC has told U.K.'s The Sun that the band is already planning its next tour and is hoping to top its last world trek. "Now we're thinking, 'How can we ever better the 'Black Ice' world tour?' But we will," he claimed.
On the topic of the success of AC/DC's 2008 album "Black Ice", Young said, "We have such diehard fans, old and new. We've survived many changing fashions of music - we've outlived the lot of them."
Black Sabbath guitar legend Tony Iommi, regarded as one of the founders of heavy metal, is set to release his autobiography. Entitled 'Black Sabbath And Beyond', the book will be released on October 13th in the UK (via Simon & Schuster) and November 1st in the US (by Da Capo Press). An Amazon pre-order is available below.
According to a book description: "Iron Man chronicles the story of both pioneering guitarist Tony Iommi and legendary band Black Sabbath. Iron Man reveals the man behind the icon yet still captures Iommi’s humor, intelligence, and warmth. He speaks honestly and unflinchingly about his rough-and-tumble childhood, the accident that almost ended his career, his failed marriages, personal tragedies, battles with addiction, band mates, famous friends, newfound daughter, and the ups and downs of his life as an artist. Everything associated with hard rock happened to Black Sabbath first: the drugs, the debauchery, the drinking, the dungeons, the pressure, the pain, the conquests, the company men, the contracts, the combustible drummer, the critics, the comebacks, the singers, the Stonehenge set, the music, the money, the madness, the metal."
According to Black Sabbath fan-site Black-Sabbath.com, the book is not completed and the release date(s) may change.
Rock News Desk is reporting that Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler says the band's shambolic attempt to make an album in 2008 collapsed because he and guitarist Joe Perry started using drugs again. But the frontman says the situation threw up a terrible contrast: the once-celebrated Toxic Twins rekindled their friendship while they were high – but they couldn't work as a band while they partied.
The Boston giants' recent history is littered with near disaster. In 2009 Tyler fell off stage while under the influence of drugs, breaking his shoulder and forcing the band to cancel their tour with ZZ Top. Months later he announced he wanted to concentrate on his solo career, and his bandmates set about finding a replacement.
At the end of the year Tyler crashed a Perry solo show and told the crowd he wasn't leaving Aerosmith. Months later the band settled their differences and hit the road again, with both Toxic Twins saying the situation had got out of hand, and hadn't needed much conversation to repair.
On May 17th, via MVD Entertainment, British guitar legend Jeff Beck will release 'Jeff Beck/Jennifer Batten/Randy Hope -Taylor/Steve Alexander Japan 1999', a DVD of a 1999 performance recorded at the Tokyo International Forum in Tokyo, Japan for Japanese television.
Running a total of 69 minutes, and featuring 18 tracks, the lineup for the concert consists of Jeff Beck, guitar, Jennifer Batten, guitar, Randy Hope, bass and Steve Alexander, drums.
The full tracklisting is as follows :
* What Mama Said
* Psycho Sam
* Brush With The Blues
* Star Cycle
* Savoy
* Black From The East
* A Day In The Life
* Declan
* THX 138
* The Pump
* ´Cause We Have Ended As Lovers
* Space For The Papa
* Angel
* Even Odds
* You Never Know
* Blue Wind
* Big Block
* Outro / Another Place
Rock News Desk is reporting that guitarist KK Downing has quit Judas Priest, and won’t join the band on their upcoming final world tour.
The 59-year-old axeman recently told his bandmates that he’d decided to retire with immediate effect. After considering the situation they’ve decided to complete the Epitaph tour as planned.
Downing will be replaced by 31-year-old Richie Faulkner, who was most recently a member of Lauren Harris’ band.
In a statement Judas Priest say: “KK Downing has formally retired and will therefore not be joining us on tour. The band respect his decision and we all wish him well.
“Having thought long and hard about how to proceed, Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, Ian Hill and Scott Travis unanimously agreed to go ahead with the tour, and not let down the fans around the world.
“Fate stepped in and delivered the perfect replacement. Richie has blended into the band perfectly, and he’s a great talent who’s going to help set the stage on fire.”
Priest last year revealed they’d decided to bring their touring career to an end after over 40 years on the road. They plan to release a new album in 2012.
Downing said at the time: “Travelling becomes such a major part of your life that you feel like a piece of luggage yourself. But when you get to go to places you’ve never been before like Korea, Turkey, Romania and Columbia, you feel like the luckiest man alive.
“People often ask me what it’s like to be on a tour and I always say the same thing. It’s the hardest thing you will ever do.”
Classic Rock magazine is reporting that Alice Cooper is to make history by appearing in 4D.
This happens on Wednesday May 11 at Battersea Power Station. Dubbed The Jagermeister Ice Cold Event, it will be the first ever holographic rock gig, and is being done to celebrate the release of the Alice Cooper box set Old School: 1964-1974. It will see the original Alice Cooper band, Alice Cooper, Michael Bruce, Dennis Dunaway and Neal Smith (minus the late Glen Buxton) making their first appearance in the UK since 1972.
Says Alice: “We couldn’t resist this. Working with Jägermeister to appear as holograms on the other side of the Atlantic is the ultimate experience, a cutting-edge conjuring trick that celebrates the future and our history. We can’t wait to see the results".
