Not yet satiated by the free booze and such available to them over the last few American jaunts, hardcore blues band EYEHATEGOD again prepare to ride around in a small crappy van and get as unhealthy as possible. The games will commence this February with a blatant hit to the Pacific Northwest in Seattle, Washington on February 5th at El Corazon. The performance will coincide with the club’s six-year anniversary. From there, the depraved New Orleans-based sludge miscreants will preach to the unwashed masses in the following cities:
EYEHATEGOD – February 2011 U.S. Tour 2/05/2011 El Corazon – Seattle, WA
2/16/2011 JB’s – Philadelphia, PA
2/17/2011 Sonar – Baltimore, MD
2/18/2011 Europa – Brooklyn, NY
2/19/2011 Lucien’s Entertainment Complex – Syracuse, NY
2/20/2011 Lido’s – Boston, MA
2/21/2011 Daniel St. – Milford, CT
2/25/2011 Siberia – New Orleans, LA
Ending the whole fiasco will be the annual EYEHATEGOD Mardi Gras show on February 25 in New Orleans with guests, crust/grind legends Phobia and Texas newcomers Venomous Maximus.
CHEAP TRICK – Just like it was yesterday. That’s how it feels each time I listen to the 1979 DreamPolice album from Cheap Trick. Those days of just playing pick-up basketball games around the neighborhood, going to friends birthday parties on Saturdays, messing around at the roller rink, hanging out at my grandma’s, reading MAD Magazine and having a major crush on Loni Anderson. Back then, I even had a huge crush on Donna Pescow, (she played Angie, on her own sitcom Angie). Yup.
I don’t know exactly why I had Dream Police playing in my head today… maybe because this song reminds me of Winter more than any other season. Songs will do that though… they just “pop” into my head without warning. I’m sure you know what I mean. Wow, maybe “those” Dream Police really do “live inside of my head”. Hey, as long as they’re cool songs that “pop” into my head and not something from The Wiggles (from days when my girls were crawling and rolling on the floor). Whatever the reason why Dream Police caught me off guard today, this song ROCKS and so does Cheap Trick. Metal be thy name.
I hope you enjoy this song and dig Cheap Trick too. This video below is Classic Cheap Trick. ‘Nuff said. If you don’t dig Cheap Trick, well, then go take a laxative and stop watching C-SPAN for awhile.
Back on May 16, 2009, I posted about this Rocktastic Cheap Trick album – Dream Police. If you like to read about it, just click the giant header-link below:
DOOBIE BROTHERS – On September 28, 2010, the Doobie Brothers released their thirteenth studio album titled – World Gone Crazy, via HOR Records. Classic Rock is named such due to it’s ability to cross generations and make us revisit the songs and albums that became the building blocks of what Rock and Hard Rock is today… and Classic Rock continues to build that solid foundation in which Rock finds it’s stability to this very moment. World Gone Crazy is as fine an example of a Classic Rock foundation block as I could ever point out. The Doobie Brothers are Classic Rock warriors, returning with fire and melody in their sound that needs to not just be listened to, their new album needs to be celebrated.
For a new Doobie Brothers album to have what I consider to be my new “favorite all-time” song from them is quite a Rockin’ thrill to tell. You see, China Grove from their third album The Captain and Me, released back in 1973, has forever been my favorite Doobie Brothers song. No more. Now my favorite Doobie Brothers song is My Baby. The Rock infectious melody coupled with the trademark Doobie Brothers chorus is spellbinding to my ears. Listening to My Baby is like I’m taking a journey back to 1978, I’m a young lad once more and I’m listening to the radio… and being introduced to Rock ‘N’ Roll all over again.
I know I can’t just continue on about My Baby the whole time here, however, this song has brought back something to my senses that has been missing for quite some time… and this song just makes me feel so goooooooooood. This song is like the fountain of youth to my ears. Tom Johnston, you wrote one incredible song with My Baby… take a Rockin’ bow. Alright, onto the rest of World Gone Crazy. I’m crazy about this album. Get it? World Gone Crazy… I’m crazy about it? Whatever.
A Brighter Day opens up this Doobie Brothers gem, packed with enough Caribbean flavor oozing from it’s sound, to send my day dreams longing for that island in the sun. The musical flirtation with Funky grooves summons up this song’s positive theme to even greater heights. The title track, World GoneCrazy is a Doobie Brothers take on the state of our economy, (with the way things are going in 2011, you can take your pick on global or U.S. economy). This song, as with the entire album, glistens with every Classic Rock aspect and nuance that The Doobie Brothers are world famous for.
Far From Home is a mid-tempo ballad that beholds some very inspirational lyrics. Far From Home combines it’s soothing lyrics, cool melodies and harmonious vocals to make it a mellow winner among some hot Rockin’ Doobie Brothers numbers. Young Man’s Game is what Doobie Brothers Rock ‘N’ Roll is all about, with a Classic Rockin’ guitar solo and plenty of foot stompin’ piano, all mixed into a non-stop and up-tempo groovin’ listen on this album.
Don’t Say Goodbye features the legendary and former Doobie Brother, Michael McDonald. This song is a mid-paced and easy listening experience, which fits right into the musical scope of what The Doobie Brothers have ventured into in the past. The only drawback to this song is that Michael McDonald’s vocals are “featured” as background and chorus. Initially, I was expecting a Michael McDonald performance where he takes center stage on vocals, with both lead and background.
With the legendary Country Outlaw we all know as Willie Nelson, his “featured” vocals on I Know We Won are utilized for both lead and background. This song’s lead vocals are shared by both Pat Simmons and Willie Nelson, their duet, if you will, is as fabulous as I could have ever expected. Old Juarez embodies a latin Rock sound and vibe that has me seeking out my Santana albums. I’d swear Carlos Santana plays a lick or two on this song, only his name does not appear in the liner notes. The Doobie Brothers are not falling short on Rock diversity with World Gone Crazy, the shifting of Rock gears makes this album smoke.
Tom Johnston and Pat Simmons both sound excellent on vocals. This Doobie Brothers band has proved to me, they are still a major player in the world of Rock, a Classic Rock icon of a band they truly are. Yes… The Doobie Brothers can still play and jam the Rockin’ lights out. There is comfort food… then there is comfort Rock. The Doobie Brothers epitomize what feel-good Classic Rock sounds like to my ears. Metal be thy name.
In the event I have to recommend that “one” ClassicRock album from 2010 to purchase, (and I guess that this is the event), it is World Gone Crazy. The Doobie Brothers may have let nearly an entire decade pass without a new studio album, yet they have more than made up for the long recess between albums. If The Doobie Brothers are to substitute quality over quantity, then they have unquestionably succeeded, for World Gone Crazy is top tier, Classic Rock quality… magnified ten times.
Doobie Brothers:
Tom Johnston – acoustic & electric guitars, vocals, background vocals
Michael Hossack – drums & percussion
John McFee – acoustic guitars, banjo, mandolin, percussion, violin, electric guitars, resonator guitars & vocals
Pat Simmons – acoustic & electric guitars, vocals & background vocals
Other World Gone Crazy Info:
* Bob Glaub plays bass on all songs except I Know We Won. (There’s no bass on this song, that’s why)
* World Gone Crazy was produced by the legendary Ted Templeman and The Doobie Brothers.
* Ted Templeman plays tambourine on Chateau. (I Thought you’d want to know).
* Nobody is a remake from The Doobie Brothers single Nobody, taken from their debut/self-titled album released back in 1971 on Warner Bros. Records.
* For more info on the Doobie Brothers, click on the link below:
SUPER BOWL XLV – Regardless of the performers who have been chosen for this years Super Bowl XLV, I have my own “Dream Metal Halftime Show” I’d like to share with the world. Some may disagree with the performers I have chosen, while others will raise the horns to the air and be pleased. Whichever is the case, this is about “personal” choice. Personal Metal choice, that is.
I’d love to see Lemmy, Phil and Mikkey up on that stage… ripping out Killed By Death. Then, it would be so righteous to see and hear Lemmy state to millions of fans worldwide, via live simulcast: “We’re Motörhead and we’re a Rock ‘N’ Roll Band”.
Just to see and hear Klaus Meine belting out: “big city, big city nights!” on that Super Bowl stage would be a Metal moment to remember… especially since the Scorpions are currently in the midst of their three year farewell tour.
Oh, man, would it be a Metal treat to witness Rob Halford as he stalks the Super Bowl stage… singing with Classic Metal defiance: “some heads are gonna roll!” The vision of K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton side by side, trading off guitar licks would be a Metal sight to behold. A Metal Super Bowl XLV sight to behold, that is. What a tremendous way for Judas Priest to kick off their 2011 farewell tour… the Metal thought of it all is fun stuff.
As a last thought to my “Dream Metal” Super Bowl XLV Halftime Show, I would be psyched out of my Metal mind, to see and hear Hank Williams Jr. bellow out: “are you ready for some Metal!”
It’s just too bad that I, along with other Metalheads that span generations, will have to watch mainstream Pop performing at Super Bowl XLV instead.
METAL BE THY NAME.
* BONUS Super Bowl XLV Fact: Stone is the same age as the Super Bowl.
COHEED AND CAMBRIA – Progressive Rock/Metal giants COHEED AND CAMBRIA are getting ready to tour the U.S. and Toronto, Ontario, Canada this April and May of 2011! Below is the band telling all about this upcoming NEVERENDER SSTB Tour, as quoted from the COHEED AND CAMBRIA newsletter, January 14, 2011:
“Hey All,
In case you haven’t heard, we are performing our debut album, The Second Stage Turbine Blade, in it’s entirety in 23 cities across the US and in Toronto, Canada.
The “Evening with” format means we’ll do the full set electric, along with a 30-40 minute acoustic set, and a bonus electric set. No support bands.
Most of the shows are on sale now, a few go on sale tomorrow (and Oakland on Sunday)”. Full dates and ticket links are posted here:www.coheedandcambria.com
We hope to see you at the shows!!
April & May 2011 Tour Dates:
4/08 Kansas City, MO Midland Theater
4/09 Dallas, TX Palladium
4/11 Austin, TX Stubbs
4/12 Houston, TX Warehouse Live
4/14 Atlanta, GA Tabernacle
4/15 Tampa, FL Jannus Live
4/18 Charlotte, NC Fillmore
4/19 Baltimore, MD Rams Head Live
4/20 Washington, DC 9:30 Club
4/22 Sayreville, NJ Starland Ballroom
4/25 Boston, MA House of Blues
4/26 Philadelphia, PA Electric Factory
4/27 Toronto, ON Kool Haus
4/29 Detroit, MI Royal Oak Music Theater
4/30 Chicago, IL House of Blues5/02 Denver, CO Ogden Theater
5/03 Salt Lake City, UT In the Venue
5/05 Seattle, WA Showbox Sodo
5/06 Portland, OR Roseland Theater
5/07 Oakland, CA Fox Theater
5/09 Tempe, AZ Marquee Theater
5/10 San Diego, CA House of Blues
5/11 Los Angeles, CA Club Nokia
WINO – Legendary Doom Metal guitarist and vocalist Scott Wino Weinrich (The Obsessed, Saint Vitus, Spirit Caravan, Shrinebuilder), will be performing a solo acoustic set this Saturday, January 15th at Volcom’s store in Los Angeles! At this special one-off performance, Wino will be performing tracks from his first ever collection of acoustic anthems on his new solo album Adrift. The show in LA is FREE to the public, but those attending are to RSVP at Wino’s new website: http://www.scottweinrich.com/
As previously announced, Wino will also hit the road this February on a short acoustic tour with longtime friend and Shrinebuilder band mate Scott Kelly of Neurosis. Sponsored by BrooklynVegan, the tour will venture through California, Texas, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland and New York, showcasing both legendary artists in solo, acoustic mode.
Wino/Scott Kelly February 2011 Tour:
2/05/2011 Viper Room – Hollywood, CA
2/07/2011 Casbah – San Diego, CA
2/08/2011 Emo’s – Austin, TX
2/09/2011 Abbey Pub – Chicago, IL
2/10/2011 Great Scott – Allston, MA
2/11/2011 Sonar – Baltimore, MD w/ Darsombra
2/12/2011 Mercury Lounge – New York, NY w/ Man’s Gin
Adrift is set for North American release on respected German label Exile On Mainstream Records March 8th, 2011, the label now distributed domestically by E1 Entertainment. A limited edition vinyl version of the album featuring extended liner notes and more is to be released in the U.S. on January 18th by Volcom Entertainment.
VANDEN PLAS – Holes In The Sky, the brand new music video from German Progressive Metal Band VANDEN PLAS,is the “first regular video clip in VANDEN PLAS band history”… and it flat out Rocks! Holes In The Sky is a melodically heavy song that has caught my Metal attention like a thunder strike. This song is from the new and sixth VANDEN PLAS studio album Seraphic Clockwork, released in the U.S. on June 22, 2010 via Frontiers Records. I like everything about this song, from the smooth and harmonious vocals of Andy Kuntz to the atmospheric keyboards of Günter Werno.
If you are into Power Metal, Progressive Power Metal and/or Melodic Metal, then check out this exceptional song below and give your ears the candy it deserves. My ears are asking for more…
KOPEK – See Ireland’s hottest, Hard Rockin’ and critically acclaimed band from Dublin! KOPEK is coming back to America and will be touring with HINDER, MY DARKEST DAYS and SAVING ABEL on the dates/venues listed below! This highly anticipated tour begins on January 21st in Jackson Mississippi! Welcome back to the U.S.A. KOPEK… now ROCK the daylights out of your fans!
01/21/11 @ Fire – Jackson, MS
01/23/11 @ The Masquerade – Atlanta, GA
01/25/11 @ Hard Rock Live – Orlando, FL
01/27/11 @ Carolina Theater – Greensboro, NC
01/28/11 @ Harrah’s Cherokee – Cherokee, NC
01/29/11 @ House Of Blues – Myrtle Beach, SC
01/30/11 @ The Norva – Norfolk, VA
02/01/11 @ Northern Lights – Clifton Park, NY
02/02/11 @ Royale – Boston, MA
02/04/11 @ Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel – Providence, RI
02/05/11 @ The Armory – Manchester, NH
02/08/11 @ Best Buy Theater – New York, NY
02/09/11 @ State Theater – Portland, ME
02/10/11 @ Sherman Theater – Stroudsburg, PA
02/12/11 @ Club Fever – Southbend, IN
02/13/11 @ Dow Event Center – Saginaw, MI
02/14/11 @ House Of Blues – Chicago, IL
02/15/11 @ Verizon Wireless Center – Mankato, MN
02/17/11 @ Osage Elm Casino – Tulsa, OK
02/19/11 @ First Council Casino – Newkirk, OK
* More dates will be announced shortly!
KOPEK:
Daniel Jordan – lead vocals & guitar
Brad Kinsella – bass guitar
Shane Cooney – drums
The digital release of White Collar Lies was released back on June 29, 2010. * The U.S. debut release for the physical CD of White Collar Lies is March 1st, 2011! White Collar Lies is being released on Religion Music via SIN/Sony Independent Network.
This debut album from KOPEK has received it’s Hard Rockin’, double-fist to the air approval from Metal Odyssey! White Collar Lies was chosen as the #5 Album Of The Year for 2010 by Metal Odyssey! You can read the complete album review for White Collar Lies, as it was featured on Metal Odyssey back on June 28, 2010. Just click the large header below!
On July 20, 2010, Metal Odyssey featured an interview with Daniel Jordan, vocalist/guitarist for KOPEK! If you missed it, you can still read it by clicking the big header link below:
CROWBAR – This is not a meat and potatoes Metal band. No sir. Instead, CROWBAR is: a roast the entire pig over an open pit of fire, while the beer is flowing from the kegs… Sludge Metal band. Metal be thy name, CROWBAR is one serious band of maximized and seriously Heavy sound. Take a Metal moment to watch and listen for yourself below, TheCemetery Angels.
Listen to The Cemetery Angels and get set Metal straight from the raging and mind jolting vocals of Kirk Windstein. Listen intently also to Kirk, the riff master, then tell me he isn’t one bad ass leader of CROWBAR. At Metal Odyssey, Kirk Windstein and CROWBAR are forever bad ass… so let it be Metal written, so let it be Metal done. Play this song LOUD and it will serve you right.
I hope you get as Metal thrilled as I do, from CROWBAR and TheCemetary Angels.
* The Cemetery Angels is from the forthcoming CROWBAR album – Sever The Wicked Hand.
* Sever The Wicked Hand releases in the U.S. on February 8th, 2011, on eOne Music.
* For more info on CROWBAR, click on the links below:
FUNNIEST HEAVY METAL ALBUM COVERS – It’s time to laugh out loud or at least crack a smile… or maybe two. I have always been a fan of memorable album covers. From Horror themes to dragons and every flaming Flying V guitar in-between, I find album artwork to be a representation of the respective musician or band’s music heard within. This may not always be the case, however, it is more often than not a pretty good gauge when caught up in a “blind purchase”. Funny album covers are out there as well and there are perhaps a countless variety of them.
I dug up five funny album covers recently, just to throw out to the world for some Metal lightheartedness. Drop a comment about any other funny album cover you want to laugh about. I hope you get a chuckle out of ’em like I have. If these funny album covers don’t have you cracking even the slightest smile, well, then, your most likely constipated and it is making you grouchy.
#5
PRIMUS – Frizzle Fry
No matter how you slice it, Les Claypool and his Funky band PRIMUS do belong in the Heavy Metal family. This “head thing” in the frying pan, on the 1990 album cover for Frizzle Fry, always has me laughing out loud. Plus, there have been times, where an omelette I’ve cooked slightly resembles this grotesquely funny atrocity. This is not the type of thing you want to find, staring up at you from a port-O-potty toilet at the country fair.
#4
Ugly Kid Joe – America’s Least Wanted
Another Funky Heavy Metal band, Ugly Kid Joe’s kid mascot always put’s a grin on my face. This time around, on America’s Least Wanted, (their 1992 debut full-length), that cartoon mascot kid can’t bug on any adult conversation.
#3
Scorpions – Lovedrive
Released back in 1979, on Mercury Records, this is a classic Scorpions album, even if it doesn’t boast a Top 40 ballad or an MTV smash hit video. Coast To Coast and Holiday are two songs worth the price of picking up this album alone. Now, can someone explain to me, how a dude can get caught in a pickle like this? What makes it so funny to me, is it’s visually bizarre… plus, seeing a huge sticky wad of bubble gum, being pulled from this ballroom babe’s breast is downright funny!
#2
NOISY MAMA – Everybody Has One
Released back in 1991, on ATCO/Atlantic Records, this NOISY MAMA album cover is simply a funny classic. The album cover illustration was created by Ed “Big Daddy” Roth, who created the iconic hot-rod mascot of the 1960’s and ’70’s known as Rat Fink. “Big Daddy” opened the door to custom automotive cartoon art. As a custom car builder, he helped to create and innovate Kustom Kulture. Ed “Big Daddy” Roth passed away back in 2001, still, his legendary custom cars, album artwork and illustrations for the hot-rod community live on. It’s album artwork like you see here, that makes it so damn cool to buy the physical CD and have the liner notes to enjoy. Take that mp3’s.
For all Metal intents and purposes, this NOISY MAMA band knew how to play some good-times, Hard Rockin’ songs. Everybody Has One… ROCKS! You can hear for yourself, by clicking on the link below. This link will take you to a myspace music fan page for NOISY MAMA, where there are some of their songs streaming to ROCK OUT to!
From 1991, it’s DANGER DANGER with Screw It. This was their second studio album, released on Epic Records. A while back, best Metal buddy Scott Coverdale reminded me of this hilarious album cover, which in turn, prompted me to revisit it and take in these songs from Screw It! once again. I’m telling you, that gorilla is funny, while he is holding that jungle hottie while she is ready to devour that lucky banana! In my Metal opinion, this is an excellent Hair Metal album from Danger Danger. Screw It! is definitely worth owning. The only drawback, is Yeah, YouWant It! is a Rap/Metal song that stinks like skunk poop that’s roasting in the hot Summer sun.
(New York, NY) — California Metal act, THE HUMAN ABSTRACT has signed a worldwide deal with eOne Music. Their brand new record “Digital Veil” will be released on March 8th, 2011.
“We are really pleased to begin the year with eOne as our new label. This relationship will only prove beneficial to the release of “Digital Veil” and help push the band a step forward into a productive and exciting future,” says bassist Henry Selva.
After releasing a pair of records via Hopeless Records, this will be the bands third official full length. Founding guitarist A.J. Minette has also returned to the band and couldn’t be more excited. He states, “It has been a pleasure working with The Human Abstract again. I am looking forward to supporting Digital Veil out on tour.”
The band will be part of the Atticus Metal III tour with Darkest Hour, Born Of Osiris, As Blood Runs Black and more running from February 25-March 27. For additional information feel free to head over to http://www.facebook.com/atticusmetaltour
THE HUMAN ABSTRACT have been seen on tour with acts such as AS I LAY DYING, DIREN GREY, ALL THAT REMAINS and THE VANS WARPED TOUR in recent years.
THE HUMAN ABSTRACT is: Travis Richter (vocals), Henry Selva (bass), Dean Herrera (guitar), Brett Powell (drums) and A.J. Minette (guitar).
MANOWAR – Fans of REAL Metal the world over unite! MANOWAR will be releasing, via Magic Circle Music, the re-recordedreissue of their 1982 debut Heavy Metal classic – Battle Hymns. On February 1st, 2011, Battle Hymns MMXI shall be unveiled unto the ears of Metalheads of all generations! This reissue includes two live tracks, recorded in 1982, that have never been released before! The tracks are: Fast Taker and Death Tone.
A recent quote by MANOWAR vocalist Eric Adams: “We constantly receive requests for the classics. Our fans love the early songs as much as they love the new ones. Our fans can be sure that we have squeezed every drop of power into Battle Hymns 2011 that today’s technology allows.”
* For this re-recorded reissue, legendary screen actor Sir Christopher Lee has replaced the late and legendary Orson Welles with narration on the classic song – Dark Avenger.
* Original MANOWAR drummer Donnie Hamzik returns on Battle Hymns MMXI.
MANOWAR:
Eric Adams – vocals
Joey DeMaio – bass
Karl Logan – guitar
Donnie Hamzik – drums
Track Listing For Battle Hymns MMXI:
Death Tone
Metal Daze
Fast Taker
Shell Shock
Manowar
Dark Avenger
William’s Tale
Battle Hymn
Fast Taker – (Recorded live at Abilene Taylor City Expo Center Arena, 1982)
Death Tone – (Recorded live at Dallas Reunion Arena, 1982)
* For more info on MANOWAR, click on the links below:
PALE CHALICE – Black Metal has it’s sharpened claws all over the globe. San Francisco, California is well represented by this Blackened and mightily determined genre, with Pale Chalice. This is a band that has been evolving since the end of 2008, honing and molding their Black Metal craft to the fantastical sound I hear on this four song EP – Afflicting the Dichotomy of Trepid Creation. This being a debut Blackened offering from Pale Chalice, it is nearly thirty minutes of intense sound that has penetrated my Black Metal corridor and staked it’s claim.
Music is all about vibrations and it’s those “vibes” that tell me when a band truly “feels” their sound they have created. Pale Chalice “feels” their sound, they convey Black Metal tonality with a welcomed air of vigor. This band is not an underground anomaly, instead they are embarking on a path that will most likely lead them to underground distinction, if they are not already there.
The overriding viciousness of the vocals spills out over each song, while the screams are factually bone chilling. Dark and mysterious are the lyrical content within all four songs, which prey on the extraordinary. This EP thunders along as heaviness is concerned, while the melodic nature of these songs is conclusive. Pale Chalice couples heavy and melodic in an impressive style, never waverering from their Black Metal mystique that sets all four songs ablaze.
The tempo shifts that Pale Chalice utilizes are essential in setting the blackened mood, at times creating melancholic and/or macabre swirls of cognition. When Pale Chalice plays at full speed, the perception is one of victory, that an army of darkness has indeed beaten down any luminous combatants. The quality of sound production is in place, with a raw tinge that blankets the entire auditory experience.
What Afflicting the Dichotomy of Trepid Creation has shown my ears, is that Pale Chalice is a convincingly equipped, underground Black Metal outfit, that wants to prevail. It’s as if Pale Chalice is now biding their time before a debut full-length of their Blackened Metal is unleashed upon the world, that this EP is a worthy teaser. I’m relishing this piece of Blackened work for now… and I’ll be in front of the line when Pale Chalice turns loose that anticipated second round of their Black Metal art.
KISS – Sometime back in 1982 or 1983, I bought the KISS KILLERS album. I can vividly recall when I first saw this album though, it was at a small pop culture store that sold plenty of cool Heavy Metal albums from the 1970’s right up to those early 80’s. My cousin Randy worked at this store, he was always astute at Rock ‘N’ Roll history and what the newest album releases of the day were.
I didn’t hesitate about buying this KISS album then, knowing at the time it was an import, KILLERS was not a mass release within the United States. It was quite an impressive find for any KISS fan back then, even more so today, (see used prices below). The asking price for KILLERS set me back around $7 (U.S.) all those years ago. $7 back in ’82/’83 for a teen Metalhead like me was still a chunk of cheese.
Still having this KISS album in my collection is quite a thrill. I am proud of myself for not selling or trading away this piece of KISStory after all these years. (There are some KISS albums and KISS Kollectibles that I have moronically let go during my lifetime). My copy of KILLERS is in as near perfect condition as you could ever ask for, with no wear to the album jacket or vinyl. I truly took great care of this album over the years.
KILLERS was released a year after The Elder and is the first album cover to have Eric Carr pictured as a member of KISS, being released months before the amazing CreaturesOf The Night album. This album is a greatest hits of the time, with four new studio tracks. Those tracks being: I’m A Legend Tonight, Down On Your Knees, NowhereTo Run and Partners In Crime.
KILLERS never came with any inside liner notes, nor are there any musician credits listed on the back cover. I’ve read throughout the years, from many sources, that Bob Kulick, (Bruce Kulick’s older brother), was the guitarist on the four new tracks. Obviously, Eric Carr was the drummer on the four new tracks.
Track Listing For KILLERS:
SIDE I:
I’m A Legend Tonight
Down On Your Knees
Cold Gin
Love Gun
Shout It Out Loud
Sure Know Something
SIDE II:
Nowhere To Run
Partners In Crime
Detroit Rock City
God Of Thunder
I Was Made For Loving You
Rock & Roll All Nite (live version)
* KILLERS was released on Casablanca Records, with their parent company phonogram having their logo at the bottom right corner on the back cover.
* As of January 8, 2011, there are 7 used KISS KILLERS albums (vinyl) for sale on Amazon.com. The prices range from $26.98 to $106.04 in U.S. funds.
* KILLERS was produced by Michael James Jackson, (no, not the Michael Jackson). The album cover design is by Howard Marks Advertising, Inc.
There’s definitely better images out there of this KISS KILLERS album cover. I just wanted to show the world the exact copy that I own. The colors on the album cover I own, are much more vibrant than shown. The back cover design is very simple and it never impressed me. You just can’t beat owning any KISS vinyl. Check it out below:
Below is the current list of bands that will be playing at the Sweden Rock Festival 2011. This beyond amazing festival of Rock, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal will be held in Norje Havsbad, Solvesborg, Sweden, June 8, 9, 10 and 11! This list is current as of January 7, 2011. Metal be thy name, from looking at the list below, this looks to be an incredibly potent four days of Rock ‘N’ Metal! For more information on this 2011 Sweden Rock Festival, just click on this link: Sweden Rock Festival 2011
OZZY OSBOURNE
WHITESNAKE
STYX
HELLOWEEN
JOAN JETT AND THE BLACKHEARTS
RHAPSODY OF FIRE
MUSTASCH
MR. BIG
BUCKCHERRY
DESTRUCTION
DAN REED BAND
WALTER TROUT
GHOST
RAUBTIER
MASON RUFFNER
RAGE
JUDAS PRIEST
ROB ZOMBIE
THE CULT
SAXON
CLUTCH
MOLLY HATCHET
JASON & THE SCORCHERS
THE DAMNED
OVERKILL
THE HAUNTED
AGENT STEEL
ELECTRIC WIZARD
MOONSPELL
GROUNDHOGS
FLASKET BRINNER
The Sweden Rock Festival is an annual festival, going Metal strong since June 6, 1992!
(New York, NY) — BRONX CASKET CO. will be releasing their forthcoming record titled “ANTIHERO” on Tuesday, January 25th, 2011 via eOne Music. “This Bronx Casket record is the best we’ve done, and we are looking forward to getting out on the road and doing some shows,” says front man DD Verni. The record also features master shredder Mike Romeo from Symphony X. Romeo can be heard on all guitar solos.
The record can now be pre-ordered via iTunes as well, click here to get it: http://bit.ly/hAy1g3
The band originally formed in 1998 by Overkill co-founder and bassist DD Verni. Having played in one of the most respected thrash bands ever for over 2 decades, why have another band? Two reason states DD, “the challenge of writing interesting new material and for fun of course!” The bands second release caught the ear of playwright Andrea Lepcio. Soon after, Verni and Lepcio were collaborating with 3-time Tony Winner Hinton Battle to direct and choreograph. Soon the seeds of The “Bronx Casket Co, A New Musical” were planted.
Verni quickly recruited several members from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra to perform. The cast consisted of performers from the Broadway shows Hairspray, Rent and Dance of the Vampire. There have been several performances off-Broadway for producers/backers and the show is still in the writing stages. It has a gothic/Broadway score with a twisted love story woven throughout. Songs from the first two Bronx Casket Co. releases are included in the show, as well as 13 new songs D.D. Verni penned just for the musical.
It’s been five years since the BRONX CASKET CO. last released an album and has been well worth the wait.
(Source: eOne Music press release, January 7, 2011)
PHIL KENNEMORE – On January 7, 2011, Y&T bass guitarist Phil Kennemore has passed away from a brave battle with lung cancer. Phil Kennemore was 57. This sad news has been released through Y&T’s vocalist/lead guitarist Dave Meniketti. You can read the entire message as written by Dave Meniketti, by clicking here: Meniketti.com/Y&T Home Page
Metal Odyssey expresses sincere condolences to the family of Phil Kennemore, Y&T, his friends and fans. Yes, I am saddened at the news of Phil Kennemore’s passing, just like countless other Y&T and Rock fans worldwide. Rock ‘N’ Roll Heaven has accepted in, an unreal great bass guitarist.
Californication Season 4 Music From The Showtime Series – Releasing on January 11, 2011, via Arrival Records/Scion Music Group is Californication Season 4 Music From The Showtime Series. Whenever a team of music supervisors and producers have to choose “those absolute songs” that most reflect the consistent themes and vibes of a television series, a delicate balancing act will be conducted based on both knowledge of that respective series and Rock Music. Nora Felder, Budd Carr and Jonathan Platt can enjoy a collective sigh of relief, that their 13 song selection for Californication Season 4 has flowed together seamlessly, like an assortment of Rock ‘N’ Roll clouds amidst a blue, cool, Summer sky.
The story lines surrounding main character Hank Moody (played by David Duchovny) to the Californication series is more complicated than just blue Summer skies, however. There is plenty of dark and taboo cool, mixed within the reality of this comedy/drama that fans can appreciate and this soundtrack capitalizes on all of it. Life isn’t something that can be followed by any guidelines from a handbook purchased at the corner book store, the songs on this soundtrack dictate exactly how dynamic life is, in all of it’s lovable and not so adored intricacies. Again, another nod to the themes one can find being absorbed into, while watching the Californication series. An overall competence in keeping the relevance between song and series, is accomplished extremely well on this soundtrack.
From MotleyCrüe’s Tommy Lee, to Indie Folk Rock artist Gregory Alan Isakov, this Californication Season 4 soundtrack is liberally represented by a cross-section of Rock genres. It makes me pleased, to see the late and legendary Warren Zevon make his appearance with WantedDead Or Alive, originally performed by Zevon on his 1970 debut album, famously known by the same title. It’s amazing to me, the strong relevance this Warren Zevon classic has in 2011. Tommy Lee takes a more sing-a-long approach, in covering his galaxy famous band’s hit ballad Home Sweet Home. The vibe I feel, while listening to this cover of Home Sweet Home, puts me in the neighborhood bar where everyone knows my name.
Queens of Dogtown are featured here with three cover songs: Would? (Alice In Chains), Last Caress (Misfits) and I Remember You (Skid Row). All three of these songs are monumental Heavy Music classics in their own right, with realistically no room for error when covering even just one of them. With that said, lead vocalist Zoe Kravitz puts her own emotional feel into each song, giving each their justifiable Rock historic respect. In turn, a whole new generation of fans shall hopefully be introduced to these bands, that made these songs timeless, thanks to Queens of Dogtown. I find myself nodding in approval, while Queens of Dogtown cover these three heavy classics with their hardened Semi-Pop Rock sound.
Experimental/Industrial Disco Rock gets coverage on this soundtrack courtesy of My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult or TKK as they are often times referred as. Their song Sex On Wheelz pulls me in with it’s Industrial edge and groove injected up-tempo. Having such a modern sounding invitee to join the party here, makes perfect sense to me. Alternative Rock is represented in excellent form with Turn On, Tune In, Drop Out With Me from Cracker. This song has an uncanny way of making me drift off into cool thoughts… and that isn’t anything too lame to admit.
Eagles Of Death Metal are always a band that takes and makes their brand of Garage Rock serious, even if they did change the title of the Stealers Wheel classic from Stuck In The Middle to Stuck In The Metal. From the 1972 original, to the 2003 cover from Eagles Of Death Metal, it finds home again on Californication Season 4 and it never sounded more Rock righteous. Back in 1989, at the peak of MTV being a real music video network, Love And Rockets was at the top of the charts with their Alternative smash – So Alive. You’ll hear Better Than Ezra put their Alternative cover spin on So Alive, gelling into the mix of this soundtrack and it’s respective Californication theme almost too perfectly.
Soundtracks are either fun, boring or come highly recommended. I’ll omit the boring category here. I will put out to you, that this soundtrack for Californication Season 4 is both fun to listen to and Rocks with enough cool vibes to make me grin defiantly, at a very lousy day. Rock ‘N’ Roll was never supposed to be anti-fun nor anti-cool. Rock ‘N’ Roll was meant to be dangerous, like the series this soundtrack represents. Californication Season 4 has the Rock that sheds away the anti’s and I recommend your getting a copy… especially if you want to have fun and be cool.
* Californication Season 4 Music From the Showtime Series releases on January 11, 2011, on CD and download, on Arrival Records/Scion Music Group.
Take a cool time-out to check out the Californication Season 4 Trailer from SHOWTIME below!
GERRY RAFFERTY – On January 4, 2011, Rock Music Legend Gerry Rafferty passed away from liver disease. A mulit-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter, Gerry Rafferty was only 63 years old. Metal Odyssey gives condolences to the family, friends and fans of Gerry Rafferty.
I honestly can say Gerry Rafferty was one of the reasons why AM Radio really did Rock for me, back in those late 70’s. The Rock I heard from Gerry Rafferty back in 1978, while going on so many long family day trips, were songs with soothing vocal harmony, a kick-it-up-a-notch sax and melodic guitar. Of course, the two “popular” songs that immediately play out in my mind, are: Baker Street and Right Down The Line from his 1978 studio album – City To City. I remember staring at the City To City album cover so long ago, staring at Gerry Rafferty holding the guitar neck with his left hand, wearing those shades… that was cool stuff for my eyes back then, it still is.
It’s not that difficult in mentioning Gerry Rafferty’s two biggest hits as being most memorable for me, especially when these are two songs that were imbedded in my mind and ears as a young lad. Of course there is much more to this legend’s music catalog. Gerry Rafferty had a soothing characteristic to his vocals, while still coming across as very cool. I never found it difficult either, in my adult life, to crank up to the maximum, Right Down The Line, each and every time it came on my car radio. That song just touches off something in me… and makes me feel extremely good. I would hopefully suppose that is exactly what Gerry Rafferty intended to do with his music, make people feel good… and he succeeded with me.
SODOM – Taking a Thrash Metal swath through four decades now, Germany’s very own SODOM is back with studio album #13 – In War And Pieces. Led by founding member and Thrash Metal legend Tom Angelripper, (bass & vocals), SODOM is proving their once again back to kick our Thrash loyal asses!
Since their debut album of 1986 – Obsessed By Cruelty, SODOM has forged their name upon Metal history as one of Germany’s pioneering Thrash Metal bands. Thrash Metal never sleeps or quits and SODOM is delivering their wake-up call to the world with In War And Pieces.
In War And Pieces will be released on Steamhammer/SPV, on January 11, 2011, in the United States.In War And Pieces has already been released in Germany on November 19, 2010 and in Europe on November 22, 2010.
SODOM As They Appear On In War And Pieces:
Tom Angelripper – bass & vocals
Bernd “Bernemann” Kost – guitars
Bobby Schottkowski – drums
* Markus “Makka” Freiwald – current drummer
* Release Formats For In War And Pieces:
Limited Edition Digipak contains bonus live CD of tracks from Wacken 25th Anniversary Show in 2007
Double LP Gatefold – blood red vinyl with 1 bonus track: Murder One
If you’re a band or musician and would like your music reviewed or be interviewed by Stone, please click the link under the “ALBUM REVIEWS ARCHIVES” section below!
Metal Odyssey's Rock, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal Hall of Fame! These Are The Rock And METAL Legends Wrongfully Ignored By "The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame"
Metal Odyssey > Heavy Metal Music Blog 
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