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Brian May – Happy Birthday From Metal Odyssey!

Posted in celebrity birthdays, classic rock, classic rock guitarists, Hard Rock, hard rock guitarists, Heavy Metal, metal odyssey, Music, rock guitarists, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , on July 19, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

BRIAN MAY – On July 19th, 1947, Brian May was born. Brian May turns 64 years young today! Happy Birthday Brian May! Being the legendary guitarist and songwriter for the also legendary Queen, it is difficult to not have Brian’s name mentioned in any discussion about all-time greatest guitarists. His signature guitar sound is so recognizable and downright classic.

While I was growing up as a young lad, I can recall hearing Queen on the radio. I remember thinking to myself, that Queen’s songs moved me in such a psyched-out way. Realistically, all those same Queen songs I heard so long ago, when I didn’t even own a legitimate stereo, still psyche me out today. Timeless Rock written and played by timeless musicians, such as Brian May… never fades away.

* Pictured at top of post: Brian May – Back To The Light, (UK album cover)/Released in 1992 on Parlophone Records (UK) and 1993 on Hollywood Records (U.S.)

LONG LIVE BRIAN MAY.

Stone.

1 Comment »

IRON CLAW – A Metal Odyssey Interview: Part One (The Early Days and The Comeback)

Posted in classic rock, classic rock albums, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on July 17, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(Photo courtesy of IRON CLAW)

(L to R: Gordon (Vocals), Ian (drums), Alex (bass) and Jimmy (guitar))

IRON CLAW – There are comeback stories in life that sometimes seem too unreal to fathom. Then there is that comeback story that bubbles over with so many feel-good vibes that you cannot hold yourself back from telling any and everyone about it. The comeback of IRON CLAW is both unreal to fathom and multi feel-good. Their Rock ‘n Roll journey all started about forty years ago in Scotland, where they were pioneering a Hard and Heavy sound while touring with the legendary likes of The Kinks and Pink Fairies.

With no coveted record deal during those early years, IRON CLAW became an unspoken and underground legend that went their separate ways. Fast forward to 2011 where the Rockin’ and forward thinking, independent label known as Ripple Music, has IRON CLAW signed, sealed and ready to deliver. On October 4th, 2011, when their new studio album of Hard and Heavy songs is to be released, (A Different Game), IRON CLAW will have defied the odds and proven that perseverance and Classic Rock does cast a magic spell.

Founding member and guitarist Jimmy Ronnie recently took the time to answer some questions for Metal Odyssey, reflecting on the past and present of IRON CLAW. While I researched the story of IRON CLAW, chills and ostrich bumps invaded the skin that covers my entire body. So many inspirational thoughts enveloped my mind, with one thought being: life is truly about second chances. The story of IRON CLAW symbolizes that Rock ‘n Roll dreams do come true… even if it’s forty years in the making. Here is what Jimmy Ronnie had to say:

Stone: When and how did Iron Claw originate?

Jimmy: Iron Claw formed in Dumfries, South West Scotland in the summer of 1969. I was told by someone that Alex Wilson was looking to start a band so I approached him. He knew of the best local drummer, Ian McDougall and that was it! Iron Claw was born.

Stone: What happened to the original vocalist of Iron Claw?

Jimmy: Mike Waller was the original vocalist (1969 – 1971). He left the band to persue other musical interests. Sadly he died in 2008. He was replaced by Willie Davidson in 1971 and Willie stayed with the band until we split in 1974.

Stone: Who were the “well known bands of the time” that Iron Claw played with and/or shared some beers with?

Jimmy: We played with many bands over our first lifetime in the 70’s. Bands such as The Kinks, Pink Fairies, Mick Abrahams Band, Spencer Davis, Barkley James Harvest, East of Eden, the list goes on and on.

Stone: During the early days, what are some fun or bizarre moments you can recall when playing a live gig?

Jimmy: Now you’re asking! I remember turning up at a gig one night and being payed off before we even got into the venue. They were obviously shocked at the sheer sight of us! I can also remenber having to escape from a town once because the local bikers wanted to kill us. I think it had something to do with Alex telling them over the PA to “fuck off”. There was the outdoor festival in Thornhill, Scotland where it rained for hours and the stage went live. I was getting shocks off the guitar strings but the show went on!

Stone: (laughs) Jimmy, those are some very cool and fun flashbacks to share! Simply legendary.

Stone: In the years during Iron Claw’s “hiatus”, what did you and the other band members do for careers?

Jimmy: Oh, it’s a long time to cover, 35 years. I played in various bands and kept my hand in recording self-penned material. The intention was always to get the illusive recording deal but it never happened. Not until 2010 and Ripple came along that is.

Stone: Looking back on the late 60’s and 70’s time period and comparing to the present, do you feel the Rock music industry has lost that “special vibe”?

Jimmy: You could say that. Lots of changes have happened. Some of them good and some possibly not. Technology has brought the possibility of recording music to the masses. In the 70’s it was relatively expensive to record in a studio where you could get quality results. Now you can almost do it in your own living room with a laptop. The internet brings an audience from all over the world to you. These things are good. On the down side, I fear that there are less accomplished musicians breaking through. Not that I’ve got anything against electronic music but there’s a lot of bands out there who can’t play and I personally lose interest in bands like that fairly quickly.

Stone: What was “the moment” that triggered you and the other band members to make a Rockin’ comeback?

Jimmy: It was the relative success of the Rockadrome album Iron Claw that made me think it was worth considering a comeback. There were no great plans in the beginning just “Do some recording and see how it goes”. The Ripple Music offer changed all that immediately.

Stone: What advice are you just ready to give in an instant, to a young and aspiring Rock band in 2011?

Jimmy: You must find and be yourself. Cover other artists, that’s not a problem but stamp your own identity on the songs. Better still, write your own material.

Stone: Iron Claw is embarking on a brand new Rockin’ chapter in 2011. What thoughts go through your mind as your new studio album A Different Game is just weeks away from world wide release?

Jimmy: This is very exciting. Every one of us has long held ambitions to release an album that we are proud of and at last, we’ve fulfilled that dream. It’s only taken a lifetime! This is the best studio work that Iron Claw has ever done. Not to say that it’s perfect. It’s Rock n’ Roll and therefore it shouldn’t be anyway. But the songs are strong, the band is tight and it sounds great. What more can you want?

Stone: What bands do you guys admire and have been influenced by in the past? Any bands
you admire/listen to regularly now?

Jimmy: Original influences are the Electric Blues and Rock bands from late 60’s early 70’s such as Cream, Free, Black Sabbath, Led Zep, Johnny Winter and lots more besides. Who do we admire now? Dream Theater, Joe Satriani, Jeff Beck and any other Classic Rock artists that have survived and are still playing.

Stone: Thank you Jimmy, Ian, Alex and Gordon… for never giving up on a dream!

* For more info on IRON CLAW, click on the links below:

IRON CLAW – facebook

IRON CLAW – twitter

Ripple Music

Ripple Music – IRON CLAW – What Love Left/Free Download

* To read my album review of A Different Game, posted right here on Metal Odyssey, on July 15, 2011, click on the big header link below:

IRON CLAW – “A Different Game”: Bluesy, Classic Hard Rock That Points To The Past And Leads Us To The Present

LONG LIVE IRON CLAW.

Stone.

5 Comments »

IRON CLAW – “A Different Game”: Bluesy, Classic Hard Rock That Points To The Past And Leads Us To The Present

Posted in classic rock, classic rock albums, classic rock bands, Hard Rock, hard rock albums, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , on July 15, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

IRON CLAW – Step aside, Anvil… there’s a Rock n’ Roll comeback story that blows yours into the stratosphere. IRON CLAW is the Rock n’ Roll comeback story of legend. We’re looking at a band that hasn’t released new material in nearly forty years and now A Different Game will be set loose upon the Rock Music world on October 4th, 2011, on Ripple Music. For IRON CLAW, it is “a different game” and they haven’t a thing to lose, only amazing praise to gain from anyone who respects and enjoys beyond memorable Classic Hard Rock and vintage Heavy Metal.

You see, IRON CLAW was playing their brand of Heavy Rock at live gigs when Heavy Metal was just getting it’s name. The early 70’s were the building blocks for the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal that we all cherish deeply in 2011… and IRON CLAW was there… planting the seeds. Touring during the early years with the legendary likes of The Kinks, Spencer Davis and Pink Fairies, (to name a few), IRON CLAW easily can be considered an important underground player within the structure of the British Rock Movement. Without a “coveted” record contract, the Rock history books have overlooked too many silent legends, the pioneers of Heavy Metal and Hard Rock such as IRON CLAW. With A Different Game, their role in Rock history shall never go unspoken again.

Stone at Metal Odyssey won’t overlook IRON CLAW, no Metal way. If you have even a sliver of Hard Rock or vintage Heavy Metal in your Rock n’ Roll soul, you too will not overlook IRON CLAW and their forthcoming Hard Rock gemstone: A Different Game. Life is funny and filled with surprises. IRON CLAW has been my most personal biggest Rock n’ Roll surprise I’ve ever encountered in my entire Metal lovin’ and Hard Rockin’ life. With all this said, you can’t possibly short change yourself from being a part of what I consider to be “one of”, if not “the biggest” Rock n’ Roll comebacks in Rock Music history and it’s IRON CLAW –  A Different Game.

(Photo courtesy of IRON CLAW)

(L to R: Jimmy (guitar), Gordon (vocals), Ian (drums) and Alex (bass))

These Rockin’ dudes from Scotland would never have considered even an attempt at a comeback, if they felt this new album wasn’t their best work of their lives. It is their best work. A Different Game contains the thick and muscular riffs from Jimmy Ronnie’s guitar that will guarantee to make the iconic Tony Iommi nod with approval and pride. Jimmy can jam, so go spread the Rockin’ word. As I listen to Jimmy Ronnie play guitar on this album, I realize that a new page must be added to any and all coffee table books on Rock guitarists. Add a chapter for this entire band in any Rock Music encyclopedia… right now. Their songs are that fantastic.

A Different Game is a reminder that Rock n’ Roll was born from the Blues and Gordon Brown’s vocals will have you searching to see if he ever “once” sang for Deep Purple. So fluid, so classic is the voice of Gordon’s that I swear he has a famously storied Rock career, one that VH1 would have a documentary on… only it’s all heard and told here on A Different Game. Alex Wilson on bass and Ian McDougall on drums play in rhythmic old school unison, fostering those visions of a world without big brother watching you and FM programming returning to AOR formats.

The relevance of IRON CLAW lies in the Hard Rockin’ and Bluesy sound they are so gifted at playing and is what countless bands of any age are trying to capture to this very day. Before I sat down to write this review on A Different Game, I wondered how inappropriate it would be to not call out individual songs and break ’em down. Then, the realization poured over me: what in the hell is there to point out, other than this IRON CLAW album holding it’s Hard Rock merit valiantly as a whole? IRON CLAW is a band that was bred when listening to an album from front to back was second nature. My album review here is one of totality and A Different Game is the total Classic Rock package.

A Different Game must be listened to and enjoyed from beginning to end. The underlying and deliberate rawness of sound, coupled with this bands old school style and musicianship, may hopefully be utilized one day as a blueprint to a young band’s future, while also serving as a reminder to us seasoned Rockaholics that the past is never a closed book. Instead, the roots of Rock are a never ending gateway and guide to where Rock Music is today and tomorrow. IRON CLAW has returned and their unfinished business might just Rock your world… It’s Rocked mine.

IRON CLAW:

Gordon Brown – vocals

Jimmy Ronnie – guitar

Alex Wilson – bass

Ian McDougall – drums

A Different Game – Track Listing:

What Love Left

Saga

The Traveler

A Different Game

Angel Woman

Southern Sky

Falling Down

It’s Easy

My Way Down

Love Is Blind

Targets

See Them Fall

Closing In

* For more info on IRON CLAW, click on the links below:

IRON CLAW – facebook

IRON CLAW – twitter

Ripple Music

Ripple Music – IRON CLAW – What Love Left/Free Download

LONG LIVE IRON CLAW.

Stone.

4 Comments »

Würzel (Michael Burston) – May He Rest In Peace

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock and roll, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , on July 10, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

Würzel – As has been reported by numerous and credible Rock media sources in the past 24 hours, the news of Würzel (Michael Burston) passing away is sad to share. This sad news first broke on Tim Butcher’s facebook page on Saturday, July 9, 2011. Tim Butcher has been a longtime bass tech for Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead. No official statement has been made as of yet.

The former Motörhead guitarist was 61 years old. Würzel’s current band was Leader Of Down. Metal Odyssey expresses condolences to the family, friends, bandmates and fans of Würzel. God bless Würzel and may he rest in peace.

* Würzel appeared on seven studio albums while with Motörhead, (1984-1995), with No Remorse (1984) being the first.

* To read the comment on Tim Butcher’s facebook page, click on the link below:

Tim Butcher – Official facebook

* Pictured above: Würzel – Bess 7″ cover sleeve (1987/GWR)

Rest In Peace, Würzel.

October 23, 1949 – July 9, 2011

Stone.

3 Comments »

CHICKENFOOT: eOne Inks Distro Deal With Supergroup Chickenfoot – New Album To Be Released This Fall

Posted in classic rock, classic rock bands, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on July 6, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(Photo Credit: LeAnn Mueller)

(New York, NY) — eOne Music has completed a new, exclusive deal with Hard Rock supergroup CHICKENFOOT for North America. The group – Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, Michael Anthony and Chad Smith – will release its sophomore album, titled “Chickenfoot III”, in late September 2011.

CHICKENFOOT’s 2009 Gold-certified, self-titled album debuted at #4 on the Billboard Charts and included the hit “Oh Yeah”.

Alan Grunblatt, President of eOne Music, says, “Chickenfoot is one of the top-selling hard rock groups in the country. Everyone at eOne is thrilled to be working with them”.

CHICKENFOOT lead singer Sammy Hagar adds, “I am very happy to join forces with eOne. The Foot has landed!”

(Source: eOne Music)

Go to: eOne Music – facebook for more info!

LONG LIVE CHICKENFOOT.

Stone.

6 Comments »

IRON CLAW “A Different Game” – Long Awaiting and New Studio Album From Heavy Rock Pioneers: Releases October 4th, 2011!

Posted in blues rock, classic rock, classic rock bands, Hard Rock, hard rock albums, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on July 6, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(Photo courtesy of Iron Claw)

IRON CLAW – Scotland’s pioneers of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal, IRON CLAW, are gearing up for the long awaiting release of their new studio album: A Different Game. This is the studio album of new material that fans have waited nearly forty years for and… IRON CLAW is BACK! This legendary band shall have no difficulties recruiting  new legions of Hard Rock, Classic Rock and Old School Heavy Metal fans with A Different Game, which releases on October 4th, 2011, on Ripple Music. What Love Left, Southern Skies, Love Is Blind and The Traveler are among 13 new songs on A Different Game.

Physical and digital copies of A Different Game will be available for purchase at: The Ripple Music Store – Ripple Music, CDBaby, Amazon and Ebay. MP3 sales will be available through iTunes, Rhapsody, Napster, etc..

Recently, I asked IRON CLAW guitarist and co-founding member  Jimmy Ronnie: “How excited are you about this new comeback album A Different Game and what can the fans of yesteryear and today expect?”

Jimmy responded: “We couldn’t be more excited about the album release. Everyone involved in the project is buzzing about this now. If current Iron Claw fans are expecting Hard, Heavy Rock then they will not be disappointed. We have stayed absolutely faithful to the original spirit of the band. The decision was taken right at the start of the recording process not to over produce the work. Capturing a really live feel was the intension and I’m pleased to say that we’ve done that. There’s enough highly polished, squeaky clean Rock Music out there already and we have no desire to add to it. This is the best studio work ever done by the band and our new singer, Gordon Brown is sure to impress. Can’t wait to get it out there and to start playing live again”.

* To download your free copy of the new single from IRON CLAW, What Love Left, just click on the cool link below:

Ripple Music – IRON CLAW – What Love Left/Free Download

* Pre-order’s for A Different Game will begin around September 1st, 2011, at Ripple Music.

IRON CLAW:

Gordon Brown – vocals

Jimmy Ronnie – guitars

Alex Wilson – bass

Ian McDougall – drums

* For more related and recent coverage on IRON CLAW posted on Metal Odyssey, click on the big header link below:

IRON CLAW – “What Love Left”: Free Download From Ripple Music! This Song Is On Hard Rockin’ Fire!

* Fo more information on IRON CLAW, click on the links below:

IRON CLAW – facebook

IRON CLAW – twitter

Ripple Music

LONG LIVE IRON CLAW.

Stone.

2 Comments »

ZZ TOP – Live From Texas: A Very Cool Listen From Three Rockin’ Legends!

Posted in classic rock, classic rock bands, concerts, Hard Rock, hard rock bands, metal odyssey, Music, rock and roll, rock concerts, rock music, rock music news, southern hard rock, southern rock with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on July 2, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

ZZ TOP – Billy Gibbons, Dusty Hill and Frank Beard. Three undisputed Rock and Roll legends. On this 2011 July 4th holiday weekend in America, kickin’ back to some live ZZ Top with some cold brews aplenty, well,  just seems like the right thing to do. I pulled Live From Texas out a couple of days ago and thought this album should be recommended for any fan of good times, old school, Classic Rock. Aw, hell, any fan of Rock Music just has to appreciate what ZZ Top has accomplished over their glorious Rockin’ career. From Southern Rock to Hard Rock, with the Blues in-between, ZZ Top is Rock and Roll whoop-ass, no matter how you slice it.

Released back in 2008, on Eagle Records, Live From Texas is not short on sound quality and production. This album obviously makes for a very cool greatest hits and live combination. Fans both old and new should get a kick out of hearing Pearl Necklace being introduced, showing that a little band rhetoric with the audience surely goes a long way. I dig every song I hear on Live From Texas, including Rough Boy… Metal be thy name. Rough Boy seems to take an unfair hit every now and again and I’m tellin you now, this song is cool alone for just making the girls all mushy. Well, that’s how I observed it  “back in the day” with Rough Boy.

The live versions of Cheap Sunglasses and Just Got Paid flat out ROCK through my veins with Classic Rockin’ intoxication. Being able to see ZZ Top live during my lifetime is something I’ll always cherish and want to experience again one day soon. In the meantime, I’ll just reach for Live From Texas to get my dose of ZZ Top playing 16 songs live… with Texas and American pride!

* ZZ Top – Live From Texas was recorded on November 1st, 2007, at the Nokia Theatre in Grand Prairie, Texas.

Live From Texas – Track Listing:

Got Me Under Pressure

Waitin’ For The Bus

Jesus Just Left Chicago

I’m Bad, I’m Nationwide

Cheap Sunglasses

Pearl Necklace

Just Got Paid

Rough Boy

Blues Intro

Blue Jean Blues

Gimme All Your Lovin’

Sharp Dressed Man

Legs

Tube Snake Boogie

La Grange

Tush

LONG LIVE ZZ TOP.

Stone.

4 Comments »

The Doors – Morrison Hotel: Revisiting a Rock Classic From 1970

Posted in classic rock, classic rock albums, classic rock bands, Hard Rock, metal odyssey, Music, psychedelic rock, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , on June 30, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

THE DOORS – In these handful of days leading up to the 40th anniversary of Jim Morrison’s passing away, I’ve decided to share a few thoughts about an album from The Doors. Jim Morrison passed away on July 3rd, 1971, in Paris France. He was only 27 years old. Forever a Rock legend Jim Morrison shall be. Jim Morrison’s lyrics, vocals and poetry always fascinated me. I was lured as a young lad into the Rock world of The Doors and essentially have never looked back. By the way, I was only four years old when Morrison Hotel was released… Metal be thy name.

Each studio album from The Doors is a unique Rock Classic. There will never be another band that comes even remotely close to their sound or style, in my opinion. The album I’ve chosen to revisit from The Doors is Morrison Hotel, released back in 1970, on Elektra Records. As with all of The Doors albums, listening to Morrison Hotel on CD isn’t quite the same as hearing the old school analog quality of it’s vinyl predecessor. I guess the same can be said for countless albums, from an untold number of bands from yesteryear.

My two favorite songs heard on Morrison Hotel are: Roadhouse Blues and Peace Frog. I personally like all eleven songs on this album. I’m not ashamed to admit, (and it might sound crazy), yet I’ve never disliked any song from The Doors. This band was just that artistic and unique to me. Roadhouse Blues is just a sensational Blues Rock song, one that uncannily radiates an incredible amount of relevance in 2011. Seriously, (and this is my opinion), Roadhouse Blues rocks along like it was recorded yesterday.

Peace Frog is just a provocative listen into Jim Morrison’s thoughts, with the lyrical content really being a recounting of what personal events troubled him. Waiting For The Sun has always given off a sonically melancholic vibe to me. Regardless of the “sun” being a focal point in the lyrics, this song has it’s doom switch turned on that I can never get enough of. Land Ho! with all of it’s quirky song structure and Folk stylings dominating, still triumphantly rocks along. A knee tapper and cool drinking song is Land Ho!.

Like all of The Doors albums, there is so much more to the “hits”. Songs like Maggie M’Gill, You Make Me Real, Queen Of The Highway and Blue Sunday are gems of Rock Music history in their own right. I always felt the need to listen to the entire album to take in The Doors. The Doors music just gives off that feel, where listening to Morrison Hotel (or any album from The Doors) from beginning to end is an experience, rather than just a listen for me.

The album cover to Morrison Hotel says it all, with Jim Morrison being in the forefront and most prominent in the picture. The Morrison Hotel actually did exist in Los Angeles, with no ownership ties to Jim Morrison, of course. However, think about this… how many bands today could take the last name of their singer and attach it to “hotel” as an album title? Not many I would think. Daughtry Hotel? I don’t think Chris Daughtry would even care for it. Could Aerosmith ever pull off an album title of: Tyler Hotel? Nah.

The coolness and flamboyancy of Jim Morrison’s vocals were ahead of the times, couple that with his overall mystique and I see the realism behind the album title: Morrison Hotel. The album title of Morrison Hotel just makes more sense to me today, than it did say in 1982. I guess I never read into this album title as deeply as I do now. The songs on Morrison Hotel have never checked out for me. If anything, I will continue to “check-in” at the Morrison Hotel for the rest of my life… and be glad I did.

THE DOORS:

Jim Morrison – vocals

Ray Manzarek – keyboards

Robby Krieger – guitar

John Densmore – drums

Morrison Hotel – Track Listing:

Hard Rock Cafe:

Roadhouse Blues

Waiting For The Sun

You Make Me Real

Peace Frog

Blue Sunday

Ship Of Fools

Morrison Hotel:

Land Ho

The Spy

Queen Of The Highway

Indian Summer

Maggie M’Gill

* Morrison Hotel was produced by Paul A. Rothchild.

* For more info on THE DOORS, click on the link below:

THE DOORS – Official Website

LONG LIVE THE DOORS.

Rest In Peace, Jim Morrison.

Stone.

9 Comments »

IRON CLAW – “What Love Left”: Free Download From Ripple Music! This Song Is On Hard Rockin’ Fire!

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, hard rock albums, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , on June 29, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

IRON CLAW – Are you in dire need of hearing a heavy hittin’ and hard drivin’ song that will guarantee to make you: call it a day and shift into party mode? Well, uncle Stone has just that Heavy Rock song for you, courtesy of Scotland’s Heavy Rock legends IRON CLAW and it’s titled: What Love Left. Oh, trust me… this song will have you flying on a Hard Rockin’ high… quicker than you can say: Metal be thy name.

What Love Left is available right now as a FREE download, courtesy of Ripple Music and IRON CLAW! What Love Left is on the 1st Anniversary Ripple Music Sampler album. This new song is also on their forthcoming studio album A Different Game. Just click the link below to get your own copy of this thunderific Hard Rock gem:

Ripple Music – IRON CLAW – What Love Left/Free Download

Originally founded in 1969, IRON CLAW is a band that truly was a part of pioneering a genre of music that we all know, cherish and love today… which is Heavy Metal. IRON CLAW are back in 2011… welcomed with open Metal arms by Metal Odyssey. The Hard Rock and “Classic Rockin’ feel” that IRON CLAW administers on What Love Left is a solid reminder that Classic Hard Rock lives and thrives!

* Look for a September 2011 release of the new studio album: IRON CLAW – A Different Game, via Ripple Music.

IRON CLAW:

Ian McDougall – drums

Gordon Brown – vocals

Alex Wilson – bass

Jimmy Ronnie – guitars

* For more info on IRON CLAW, click on the links below:

IRON CLAW – twitter

IRON CLAW – facebook

Ripple Music

LONG LIVE IRON CLAW.

Stone.

4 Comments »

Los Lonely Boys – Rockpango: A Positive and Feel Good Album of Dynamite Rock Songs

Posted in chicano rock, classic rock, Hard Rock, latin rock, metal odyssey, Music, rock album reviews, rock and roll, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , on June 27, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

LOS LONELY BOYS – Are you currently hankering for an album that is: feel-good, easy going, fun, a bit funky, has some Soul and a sliver of Rap, a bit bluesy with Latin flavor and simply Rocks? Well then, that album is Rockpango. I can’t hold back my enthusiastic liking for this new Los Lonely Boys album. Rockpango was released back on March 29th, 2011, on their very own Playing In Traffic/LonelyTone Records. Being an early Spring release, Rockpango has gained some mighty steam as one of my favorite Rock albums of 2011.

This album I’ve been addicted to for over two months now and it’s all about the songs baby… it’s all about the songs. When an album like Rockpango has so many good songs, then it becomes memorable for me. The Garza brothers (Henry, Jojo and Ringo) have a remarkable knack for writing mainstream songs that are still street cool. Maybe it’s the Texican Rock and Roll vibe happening, still, Los Lonely Boys are a band that makes any dreary thoughts evaporate from my Metal mind the very second I listen to their music. That’s feel-good.

My favorite song on Rockpango is Smile. The orchestration is what makes this song standout, with the violin, viola and cello stirring up my infatuation with (my) beloved Electric Light Orchestra. Not to mention the guitar resonates a Classic Rock sound on Smile, bringing a retrospective feel to my listen. The song Rockpango takes a major chapter out of Santana’s Latin Rock groove, coupled with some tasty, bluesy guitar licks. The B3 organ (Riley Osbourn) lends a Classic Rock appeal to the overall recipe that this Rockpango song is all about in sound.

16 Monkeys is a fun listen in both music and lyrics. Los Lonely Boys certainly have their funny side and this song is a throwback to when Rock and Roll really did take aim at the funny bone. “16 monkeys on a chuck wagon rollin’ down the road… uh, huh”. Need I say more about (gasp) fun and Rock and Roll? Porn Star has the Rap, courtesy of Kush and the cuts and scratches are thanks to DJ Beans. Make no mistake, Porn Star does Rock along and the Funk I hear is no junk.

The always constant and harmonious vocals of the Garza brothers on Rockpango is a quality listen in and of itself. There is much to be said about creating positive Rock and Roll and Los Lonely Boys are masters at this craft. Believe, Love In My Veins and American Idle are three songs that deliver the high spirited Rock that’s chock full of genuine messages of kindness. No, Los Lonely Boys aren’t preaching, they’re just three cool dudes that aren’t about spreading hate through their music. Metal be thy name.

An admirable characteristic of Los Lonely Boys is their talented ability to incorporate so many styles of music to their sound, without ever coming across as stretching themselves too thin. Rockpango has turned out to be a highlight listen for me in the Rock category this year and will remain just that for years to come. When I listen to Rockpango, I’m listening to three musicians who just love music… period.

Los Lonely Boys:

Henry Garza – vocals, electric and acoustic guitar

Jojo Garza – vocals and bass guitar

Ringo Garza – vocals, drums and percussion

Track Listing For Rockpango:

American Idle

Fly Away

Love In My Veins

Road To Nowhere

16 Monkeys

Rockpango

Smile

Baby Girl

Change The World

Porn Star

Believe

* For more info on LOS LONELY BOYS, click the link below:

Los Lonely Boys – Official Website

LONG LIVE LOS LONELY BOYS.

Stone.

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Leslie West and Mountain – Roots of Heavy Music, Legends of Rock!

Posted in classic rock, classic rock albums, guitar legends, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , on June 24, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

LESLIE WEST and MOUNTAIN – The news this week about Leslie West having to undergo a leg amputation is absolutely sad to hear. Complications from diabetes has caused this unfortunate trial for Leslie. I wish Leslie West a victorious recovery and shall keep him and his family in my prayers. I’m very happy to hear he is recovering. I read excerpts of Leslie’s call-in to Howard Stern’s satellite radio show (on Wednesday, June 22nd) where he explained the scary chain of events.

Leslie West is both a pioneer and legend of Rock music. Leslie pioneered heavy guitar playing, I shudder to think where Hard Rock and Heavy Metal would be without his signature guitar and vocal styles. I’m just an Old Schooler when it comes to Rock and Roll’s roots. I’ll continue to thank the guys and gals of Rock and Roll’s yesteryear for founding and shaping the music I so much love. Thank you Leslie West.

Throughout my life, I’ve read countless interviews of Rock musicians and Leslie’s name consistently turns up when the topic of “influence” is brought up. The same has held true when I’ve done interviews for either Hard Rock Hideout or Metal Odyssey, his influence is brought up consistently. Leslie West is not just another musician in Rock history, Leslie West is a key figure who helped build Hard Rock and Heavy Metal to where it is in 2011.

This past week I went digging around to see what Mountain albums I’ve reviewed and there are a couple. (See below). Check out these two Mountain albums (if you haven’t already), they quite simply… ROCK.

(Mountain – Masters Of War – 2007/Big Rack Records)

On April 28, 2010, I wrote about Masters Of War, a cover song album that pays tribute to Bob Dylan’s classics. Click the big header link below to check it out:

MOUNTAIN – Masters Of War: A Cover Song Album Of Bob Dylan Classics

(Mountain– The Best Of Mountain Live – 2006/St. Clair)

On January 30th, 2010, I wrote about The Best Of Mountain Live. This is a really cool and live Mountain CD to listen to. You can read all about it by clicking the big header link below:

MOUNTAIN – The Best Of Live: A Listen In Hard Rock And Heavy Metal Roots

* LESLIE WEST, CORKY LAING and MOUNTAIN SHOULD BE INDUCTED INTO THE ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME… METAL BE THY NAME.

* For more info on MOUNTAIN, click on the link below:

MOUNTAIN – Official Web-Site

LONG LIVE LESLIE WEST.

LONG LIVE MOUNTAIN.

Stone.

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Thin Lizzy – Thunder and Lightning: Revisiting A Classic From 1983

Posted in classic rock, classic rock albums, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on June 21, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

THIN LIZZY – I’ve been in a real deal Old School mood this week. For Metal sakes, I’m always in an Old School mood. I have a new cell phone with total access to social networks and I could care less. I still can’t figure out what every button does on the remote control for my television. I’m just that kind of Old School dude. Anyways… back to Thin Lizzy. I try to frequently “revisit” those Classic Rock albums and Old School Heavy Metal albums that quite frankly, should never be forgotten. 1983’s Thunder and Lightning from Thin Lizzy is one such album.

I guess it’s easy to tag this Thunder and Lightning album as either Classic Rock, Hard Rock or (Old School) Heavy Metal… take your pick. At the end of the Metal day, it makes no big difference to me. This Thunder and Lightning album makes me feel good and yes, psyches-me-out on many, many occasions. The early 80’s was a special time in Hard Rock and Heavy Metal, Thin Lizzy was an integral part of that time in Rock history.

As I was preparing to write up this post, I looked back at my album review I did for Thunder and Lightning, more than two years ago on March 17th, 2009. Yes, I edited it again for grammar and (ahem) coolness… and I updated it for this actual post. (See the link below). Late today, as I was finishing up my thoughts on this post, KEV MOORE (BC Sweet) commented on my updated review from 2009! That tells me right there, I should be updating my older reviews more often! Metal be thy name… Kev Moore is one cool (Old School) Rock musician and has shared some very welcomed anecdotes and thoughts here on Metal Odyssey.

I guess my revisiting The twelfth and subsequently last studio album from Thin Lizzy has paid off. My Metal intent all along was to remind us fellow Rockaholics about this album and hopefully spread the Metal word to a younger generation of Heavy Rock fans.

Without further ado, here is my corn-dog intro to the Thunder and Lightning album review:

A long time ago, well, on March 17th, 2009 to be exact, I wrote a concise album review and/or bundled bunch of Metal thoughts on Thunder and Lightning. Click the big header link below to read it… go ahead, you just might like it.

THIN LIZZY – THUNDER AND LIGHTNING

* For more info on THIN LIZZY, click on the link below:

THIN LIZZY

LONG LIVE THE ROCKIN’ LEGACY OF THIN LIZZY.

Rest In Peace, Phil Lynott.

Stone.

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Van Halen – Diver Down: Revisiting A Good Times, Summer Vibe Album

Posted in arena rock, classic rock, classic rock albums, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on June 20, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

VAN HALEN – I can recall the day I bought Van Halen’s Diver Down. It was during my Summer vacation in 1982, my sophomore year of high school was over. I was just getting my Hard Rockin’ taste buds delighted by the Van Halen catalog of albums during this time period. I remember borrowing the first four albums from friends all the time, therefore, Diver Down was my first Van Halen album that I owned.

The album cover didn’t resonate that Van Halen mystique, still I didn’t really care. The diver down flag album cover… it is what it is. The back cover to this album is more like it though, with a panoramic picture of Van Halen live and onstage. Plus, there are four live concert photos of each band member shown as well. Like I used to do with so many album covers (and still do), I held it and stared at the back cover and inside record sleeve in pure awe at the band I was listening to.

My favorite song on Diver Down is the cover of The Kinks classic: Where Have All The Good Time Gone. I swear I played this song on it’s own hundreds of times over… it is what it is and Metal be thy name. What’s amazing is that I have never grown tired of this song either, wether it’s The Kinks original or this Van Halen cover. Simply amazing.

(Van Halen – Diver Down: back cover)

The record sleeve had a very cool group photo of Van Halen, just a vintage shot, in my Metal opinion. I laugh now at the memory of my liking the striped shirt that Alex Van Halen was wearing in this group photo. I liked that striped shirt so much, that I went searching for it at every department store or any store that sold teen clothing. I never found it.

This fifth album from Van Halen may never be considered their best work, yet that doesn’t matter much to me. Diver Down was a good times Hard Rockin’ album for me back in 1982 and it still holds that same vibe for me in 2011. Metal be thy name.

* A long time ago, in a Metal world far, far, away, I once wrote a concise review on Diver Down. Click here to read it: VAN HALEN – DIVER DOWN
You might just like it.

LONG LIVE DIVER DOWN.

Stone.

6 Comments »

Clarence Clemons – Rest In Peace

Posted in classic rock, classic rock music, metal odyssey, Music, rock and roll, rock and roll news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , on June 19, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

Clarence Clemons – It’s a sad feeling in the world of Rock and Roll for the legendary saxophonist Clarence Clemons has passed away on Saturday, June 18th, 2011, at the age of 69. Clarence suffered a stroke on Sunday, June 12th. Forever loved for his saxophone talents with The E Street Band and Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band, Clarence released several successful solo albums as well. Clarence Clemons also played saxophone for Gary U.S. Bonds and Ringo Starr And His All-Star Band. Clarence was also an accomplished vocalist and percussionist.

Metal Odyssey extends condolences to the family, friends, bandmates and fans of Clarence Clemons.

* Top album cover photo: Clarence Clemons And The Red Bank Robbers – Rescue (1983 – Tristar).

Rest In Peace, Clarence Clemons.

1942 – 2011

Stone.

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Warren Haynes – Man In Motion: Five Reasons To Buy This Album

Posted in classic rock, classic rock music, guitarists, Hard Rock, metal odyssey, Music, rock and roll, rock music, rock music news, southern rock with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , on June 19, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

Warren Haynes – The second studio album from legendary guitarist and vocalist Warren Haynes was released on May 10th, 2011, on Stax Records. Rock, Southern Rock and the Blues have and always will be in the Rockin’ arsenal of Warren’s skillful guitar playing. Best known for his membership with The Allman Brothers Band and Gov’t Mule, Warren has a Rock and Roll resume that goes much deeper than that. Playing guitar at a young age for Country legend David Allan Coe and even appearing live, onstage, with the Dave Matthews Band are a part of this highly respected guitarist’s musical history.

I want to share with you, five reasons why you should buy this new Warren Haynes album, here they are:

1. It’s all about the guitar. Any guitar aficionado will salivate at the pureness that Warren Haynes so eloquently expresses with his playing. Longtime fans of Warren Haynes surely know what I mean.

2. Diversity. Warren Haynes plays his patented Southern Rock tones, still he turns over some bluesy and funky licks that makes Man In Motion a case study in Rock appreciation.

3. Vocal coolness. When I listen to Warren Haynes sing, it’s listening to a dude that believes in his lyrics and the song. Storytelling and singing straight from the heart are two attributes of Warren that too many young vocalists nowadays don’t grasp… or even know exists.

4. Classic Rock never surrenders. The steady vibe of Classic Rock never subsides throughout Man In Motion. The organ, clavinet and tenor saxophone adds the old school mystique, making me drift back to those less stressful and technologically less invasive days of yesteryear. Songwriting never sounded so comfortably gilded.

5. “The three C’s”. Completeness, Competency and Creativity. When I can listen to an entire album that is richly guitar based and still be lured into the dynamics of the other instruments and vocals equally, that’s completeness. The competency is Warren Haynes and his musicians surrounding him on Man In Motion. The creativity is making an album of retrospective songs sound so suitable in 2011.

One big added bonus is the harmonious way all ten songs coexist together on Man In Motion. I’ve listened to this album many times now. I recommend Man In Motion to fans of discerning Rock taste and to those fans who keep their beer cold down in the creek; it makes no difference, this album comes across too damn refreshing. Warren Haynes has found, no, created a lucrative listen, into the world of a guitarist and vocalist who plays and sings with an immediacy that comes straight from his Rock and Roll soul.

* For more info on WARREN HAYNES, click on the link below:

Warren Haynes – Official Website

LONG LIVE WARREN HAYNES.

Stone.

4 Comments »

COHEED AND CAMBRIA – Free Show In Brooklyn, New York: This Saturday, June 11th, 2011!

Posted in classic rock, concerts, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, progressive metal, progressive rock, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , on June 9, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

COHEED AND CAMBRIA – Free show in Brooklyn this Saturday!

That’s right, FREE. We’ll be performing an encore performance of ‘Neverender: SSTB’ this Saturday, June 11th at the Williamsburg Waterfront, doors open at 5:30 pm. You don’t need a ticket, you just show up and it’s free.

Special guests will be the legendary Adrian Belew and his Power Trio, and Scranton, PA’s Tigers Jaw.

In July, we’re touring with Soundgarden and we’re very excited about that.

Here are all our dates:

6-11 Brooklyn, NY – Free – Neverender: SSTB Encore show

7-02 *Toronto, ON – Molson Canadian Amphitheater 


7-03 *London, ON – John Labatt Center 


7-05 Ottawa, QC – Blues Fest 


7-06 *Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun


7-08 *Newark, NJ – Prudential Center 


7-09 *Wantagh, NY – Jones Beach 


7-10 *Mansfield, MA – Comcast Center


7-11 Poughkeepsie, NY – TBA 


7-13 Quebec City, QC – Quebec City Festival 


7-14 **Halifax, NS – Rock the Hill

*w/Soundgarden

**w/Metallica

Go to www.coheedandcambria.com for more details.

(Source: Coheed And Cambria, Sony Music Entertainment)

LONG LIVE COHEED AND CAMBRIA.

Stone.

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URIAH HEEP – Nail On The Head: Official Video… ROCKS!

Posted in classic rock, classic rock music, Hard Rock, hard rock albums, Heavy Metal, melodic rock, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news, rock music videos with tags , , , , , , , , , , on June 8, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

URIAH HEEP – Into The Wild is the 23rd studio album from the legendary Uriah Heep and was released on Frontiers Records on May 3rd, 2011. Since 1970, Uriah Heep has been Rockin’ the globe! Founding member and guitarist Mick Box has his band once again playing some of the best Hard Rock in the land! Throughout this iconic band’s reign, be it progressive, melodic, hard or heavy, one thing is for certain… after 40 years of Uriah Heep Rock ‘n’ Roll, this band is unquestionably steady!

Below is the Hard Rockin’ and thunder stompin’ song: Nail On The Head. Take a look and listen for yourself below… URIAH HEEP are Classic Rock Kings!

URIAH HEEP:

Mick Box – guitar & vocals

Bernie Shaw – lead vocals

Trevor Bolder – bass & vocals

Russell Gilbrook – drums & vocals

Phil Lanzon – keyboards & vocals

* For more info on URIAH HEEP, click on the links below:

URIAH HEEP – Official Website

URIAH HEEP – MySpace Music Page

www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords

LONG LIVE URIAH HEEP.

Stone.

4 Comments »

Rock And Roll Plus Food = One Big Unnecessary List

Posted in classic rock, classic rock music, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, lists, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , on June 7, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

Rock And Roll Plus Food – When I sift through my music collection or go online to look at what’s around for tunes, I always get the biggest kick out of bands, albums and songs that are named after food. Sometimes I’ll find a musician that has a food name too, as you’ll see below. In essence, this is really one unnecessary list I’ve compiled here. Regardless, there are times in life when I feel the need to accomplish unnecessary tasks. Feel free to comment any other songs, albums, bands or musicians that have food names… if you feel it is as unnecessary as I do.

The Rolling Stones – Sticky Fingers (1971)

Okay, so the Rock Classic Brown Sugar is on this vintage Stones album. I realize brown sugar is not an exact food, however, you can still digest it and it is an ingredient. Isn’t this what the song is really about anyways? Eating brown sugar from Aunt Mabels pantry?

Bee Gee’s – Cucumber Castle (1970)

Whoa! I’ve never been to Cucumber Castle before! Do they serve cucumbers there? Is this castle shaped like a gigantic cucumber? Is there a “pickled cucumber castle” as well?

limp bizkit – chocolate starfish and the hot dog flavored water (2000)

Um… I’ll pass on the chocolate starfish. I’ll especially pass on the hot dog flavored water. Sounds much too gassy.

David Hamburger – plays blues, ballads & a pop song (2008)

David Hamburger. Could there be, by process of elimination, a person out there with the last name of “hot dog”? Plus, could you imagine, if a Hamburger married a hot dog! Man, what would the children look like?

Vanilla Fudge – out through the in door (2007)

Vanilla Fudge ROCKS. Why? Cause the legendary Carmine Appice plays drums and sings for Vanilla Fudge… that’s why. Anyhow, vanilla fudge is something we can eat and listen to at the same time. Metal be thy name.

Zac Brown Band – The Foundation (2008)

On this particular Zac Brown album, apparently there is some “chicken fever” going on. Two songs have “chicken” in their respective title. They are: Chicken Fried and Sic ‘Em On A Chicken.

David Lee Roth – Skyscraper (1988)

Skyscraper is a very good David Lee Roth album, in case you never gave it a listen. I remember partying to this album like there was no tomorrow. Okay, the food song on Skyscraper is: Hot Dog and a Shake. Just think about it for a Metal second… it can’t possibly be that easy to write a song about a hot dog and a shake. Regardless, David Lee Roth and Steve Vai were able to.

Soul Asylum – Clam Dip & Other Delights EP (1989)

Um, I’ll eat the Clam Dip only I’ll pass over on the “other delights” thank you.

Jimmy Buffet – Son of a Son of a Sailor (1978)

C’mon. If you’ve never sang along to Cheeseburger in Paradise while two sheets to the wind, you’re either lying or destined to do so.

Van Halen – Van Halen (1978)

Vintage Van Halen here. This album started it all for this beyond legendary band. The food song heard on Van Halen’s debut is: Ice Cream Man. I always felt is was so cool, that Van Halen acknowledged a hardworking Summertime dude… like the ice cream man.

* That concludes this One Big Unnecessary List on Rock And Roll Plus Food. Thank you for stopping by and please come back again.

LONG LIVE FOOD.

LONG LIVE ROCK.

LONG LIVE HARD ROCK & HEAVY METAL.

Stone.

7 Comments »

Five (More) Hard Rock Albums You Must Own This Summer Of 2011 – Part II: Whitesnake, The Poodles and…

Posted in classic rock, classic rock music, Hard Rock, hard rock albums, Heavy Metal, melodic rock, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on June 5, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

It’s been a fantastic year thus far for Hard Rock album releases. No, make that super fantastic. The obvious trend I’ve seen with all these incredible Hard Rock albums of 2011 is: A majority of these albums are from seasoned or old school bands. There have been many comeback albums released so far this year that absolutely ROCK… hello King Kobra, The Cars, Warrant, Mr. Big and Nelson, to name more than a few.

Realistically, I cannot possibly listen to every Hard Rock album that’s been released at this point in the year, therefore this list of MUST OWN albums for this Summer of 2011 may not correspond with your favorites in parts or in whole. As we approach the midway point of 2011, these are the Hard Rock albums that have ROCKED my brains out! In my Metal opinion, these are five albums worth your hard earned money to buy and crank up LOUD during this coming Summer of 2011… and beyond.

* Metal Odyssey Note: This list is in no particular order and it is Part II of a series. All the albums chosen are 2011 releases. You have to wait for the “Metal Odyssey Best Of 2011” lists that come out around Christmas/New Years for a definitive list. Be patient, that time will come quicker than we all know!

SHAKRA – From Switzerland comes the Hard Rockin’ and much experienced… SHAKRA. This band puts double exclamation points after their brand of Hard Rock and I’m listening! Back On Track (AFM Records) is the 8th studio release from SHAKRA, plus they are showcasing a new lead singer: John Prakesh, replacing Mark Fox. John comes across as an original with some slight Mark Storace (Krokus) influence here and there.

Old Schoolers from the 80’s heydays of Arena dwelling just have to dig what SHAKRA plays for Hard Rock, I know I dig ’em. Mixed into all 13 melodically driven songs on this album, there’s so much thump and stomp and tasty guitar licks happening that it makes for an above memorable listen time and again. Once you buy and listen to this new SHAKRA album, it might just become a top favorite on your playlist, due to the Hard Rockin’ ass kicking it gives you.

THE POODLES – Attention North America: There is a Hard Rock band from Sweden that are a hot ticket over in Europe and they deservedly should catch on over this side of the Atlantic, they call themselves: THE POODLES. On May 3rd, 2011, the fourth studio album from this Swiss Hard Rockin’ outfit, Performocracy, was released in the U.S. via Frontiers Records. This new album is incredibly loaded with everything great about Melodic Hard Rock and… quality songs are the rule!

From the lead vocals of Jakob Samuel and the beyond catchy chorus, to the driving guitar of Henrik Bergqvist, Performocracy has 13 songs without one filler to be heard. THE POODLES make it their mission to ROCK like a late 80’s Arena Band while bestowing a bounty of impressive hard edged relevancy. This band steers away from the corn-dog lyrics that so often becomes recycled from generation to generation. I really dig listening to THE POODLES. Fans of 80’s Hard Rock along with connoisseurs of today’s mainstream and non-mainstream Hard Rock should find them very appealing too.

Warning: There is “something” about the overall sound, feel and vibes of THE POODLES songs, thus becoming unavoidably contagious to the ears, resulting in ultra-repeated listens to Performocracy.

SEETHER – I wrote in a previous post regarding this new SEETHER album, that the song Here And Now brought me to tears. I will never shy away from the Metal truth, that song hit me on a personal level like an emotional avalanche. Just a tremendous song it is, with it’s unbelievably melodic ride. Released on May 17th, via Wind-up, Holding Onto Strings Better Left to Fray is yet another Hard Rockin’ milestone in the growing and always impressive catalog from SEETHER.

Shaun Morgan proved to me a long time ago he is a premier songwriter, musician and vocalist. Shaun’s lyrical expressions are simply amazing on this new album. I can’t prevent myself from calling this album a contender for Hard Rock album of the year… or even album of the year. Country Song became an instant hit once it was available on iTunes as the lead single… and for good reason, this song Rocks. SEETHER convincingly shows they are a band that can play the ever legit Heavy Rock, with their unique Alternative style, while the mainstream absorbs them like a Hard Rock hungry sponge.

WHITESNAKE – There is that mystique about David Coverdale’s vocals that just makes me feel like everything is alright… that everything is gonna be okay. It’s always felt that way to me, regarding David’s vocals, going back three decades now. David Coverdale can sing the Hard Rock daylights out of the sky and still he comes across as soothing to my ears. Does that sound corn-dog? Maybe… at least I’m being honest though.

David Coverdale has never sounded mightier, while his band is as melodic and Hard Rock driven as ever, on the eleventh studio album from Whitesnake. Forevermore, which released back in March on Frontiers Records is solid proof that Whitesnake reigns atop the Hard Rock heap, looking up at no one. Doug Aldrich and Reb Beach are quickly becoming a legendary Hard Rock guitar duo and Forevermore is the audio evidence. Between deluxe editions, Amazon.com and iTunes, there are loads of bonus tracks out there for Forevermore that you can sink your Hard Rockin’ senses into.

What separates Whitesnake from the pack of other old school Hard Rock bands, is this band’s uncanny ability to write and play songs that instantly scream out: timeless. To not own Forevermore, if your a Hard Rock fan, is a crime under the Metal Odyssey “Code Of Rock”. My favorite song on Forevermore is One of These Days. It’s just like I said at the beginning of this post… David Coverdale sings this song and it’s alright… my vibes tell me everything is gonna be okay.

BLACK STONE CHERRY – Back in 2006, Black Stone Cherry released their self-titled debut on RoadRunner Records and I was drawn into their Classic Rock influence from the onset. The raw sound of this band may have diminished a good deal since that first album, still there is an air of Classic Rock roots about their sound that makes Between The Devil & The Deep Blue Sea so attention grabbing. This being the third studio album from Black Stone Cherry, all with RoadRunner Records, this one can easily be pointed out as their best. This band is a throwback to when artists cared about writing and playing a complete album of songs.

The bluesy vocals of Chris Robertson mingles so well with his Hard Rock and Southern Rock tones. The song Killing Floor is a can of psyche-you-out whoop-ass that I’ll need to drink in for many more years to come. The nod of reverence to old school seems to illuminate from Black Stone Cherry like a beacon, making it a quality that I admire most. With the cover of Can’t You See, originally written by (the late) Toy Caldwell for The Marshall Tucker Band, it only shows the Southern and Classic Rock roots will never fade away for this group. This is an album of 12 songs that will stand the test of Rock ‘n’ Roll time… and forever be labeled a Hard Rock gem from 2011.

* For more info on the bands and their albums listed above, just click on the very cool links provided below:

WHITESNAKE – Official Website

THE POODLES – Official Online Headquarters

Black Stone Cherry – Official Website

SEETHER – Official Website

SEETHER – Official facebook

http://www.shakra.ch

http://www.afm-records.de

LONG LIVE HARD ROCK.

777

Stone.

6 Comments »

Five Hard Rock Albums You Must Own This Summer Of 2011 – Part I

Posted in classic rock, classic rock albums, Hard Rock, hard rock albums, Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , on June 4, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

It’s been a fantastic year thus far for Hard Rock album releases. No, make that super fantastic. The obvious trend I’ve seen with all these incredible Hard Rock albums of 2011 is: A majority of these albums are from seasoned or old school bands. There have been many comeback albums released so far this year that absolutely ROCK… hello King Kobra, The Cars, Warrant, Mr. Big and Nelson, to name a few.

Many of these bands can easily be tagged as 80’s Heavy Metal, Hair Metal, Glam Metal, Classic Rock or Arena Rock and I’m down with that. Deciding which Rock genre a band nestles into comfortably is not difficult. Heck, it’s not like figuring out calculus or some insane Food Network recipe. Many bands are often placed into multiple genres anyways. Metal be thy name.

Realistically, I cannot possibly listen to every Hard Rock album that’s been released at this point in the year, therefore this list of MUST OWN albums for this Summer of 2011 may not correspond with your favorites in parts or in whole. As we approach the midway point of 2011, these are the Hard Rock albums that have ROCKED my brains out! In my Metal opinion, these are five albums worth your hard earned money to buy and crank up LOUD during this coming Summer of 2011… and beyond.

* Metal Odyssey Note: This list is in no particular order and it is Part I of a series. All of the albums chosen are 2011 releases. You have to wait for the “Metal Odyssey Best Of 2011” lists that come out around Christmas/New Years for a definitive list. Be patient, that time will come quicker than we all know!

KING KOBRA – Yes, King Kobra is back. Why? Well, cause Carmine Appice says so. Plus, this self-titled comeback album from King Kobra ROCKS like every day is F’n Friday. Metal be thy name, Carmine should have given this album a title after all… and named it Feel Good. Carmine assembled the original King Kobra lineup once again for this 2011 edition… only the lead singer is the exception. Paul Shortino (Rough Cutt & Quiet Riot) has taken over the vocal lead now. Why? Well, cause Carmine asked him to that’s why. Plus, as a bonus, Paul can sing pretty damn good. (King Kobra was released on Frontiers Records).

WARRANT – No, no, no. And no again. This is NOT the Warrant you remember from 1989, 1990 or even 2006. Nope. This Warrant can kick any of those Warrant’s asses. Why you ask? Cause this Rockaholic album (Frontiers Records) kicked my ass into next wednesday. Except at lead vocals, an “original” Warrant lineup is in place on Rockaholic. This third vocalist for Warrant has turned out to be their BEST, in my crazed Metal opinion. Robert Mason (Lynch Mob) and a “less cheese is more” approach has made this Warrant album smoke, from start to finish. (Rockaholic was released on Frontiers Records).

JOURNEY – Somewhere along the line, someone told Neal Schon to make a Journey album that would psyche-out Stone over at Metal Odyssey to the point of ridiculous Hard Rockin’ ecstasy. Neal and his band did just that… and it’s titled Eclipse. Thank you Neal. By the way… this new Journey album, excuse me, I mean CD, is a Walmart exclusive. It’s o.k. to go to Walmart and buy this new Journey CD. For Metal sakes, Walmart is not going to bite you in the ass and give you an infection if you go there to buy Eclipse.

FAITHSEDGE – For those of you who recognizes this Faithsedge album cover from being at the top of this post, well done. This Southern California Hard Rock band not only released their self-titled debut this year, they’ve also made one of the BEST Hard Rockin’ albums I’ve heard all year. Melodic, contagious and simply 100% memorable is this Faithsedge album. By the way, remember this name: Giancarlo Floridia. Why you query? Cause this Rockin’ dude is more than likely the next Joe Lynn Turner of Hard Rock. (Faithsedge was released on Scarlet Records).

REV THEORY – Whoa. Uh, was Rev Theory beamed up by space aliens, only to arrive at Planet Kick-Ass Hard Rock? I think they were. Cause upon returning to this round ball of 75% water that we call Earth: Rev Theory have released their third studio album Justice, one that thunders along like an out of control micro-cell in the hot, humid, Summer sky. Not one song on Justice can I ignore, this album is that damn consistent with it’s Hard Rockin’ intensity. What you need to do here is: buy Justice, play it LOUD and get psyched-out. After that, you may thank me for a month of Saturdays.

* For more info on the bands and their albums listed above, just click on the very cool links provided below:

JOURNEY

FAITHSEDGE – facebook

FAITHSEDGE – Official Website

WARRANT ROCKS

REV THEORY – Official Website

REV THEORY – myspace music

www.myspace.com/officialkingkobra

KING KOBRA – Official facebook

www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords

LONG LIVE HARD ROCK.

The word “nestles” was used in this post.

Stone.

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