Archive for guitarists

Shredder LAWRENCE WALLACE To Unleash “Compilation Songs”

Posted in Guitar, guitarists, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, instrumental metal, instrumental music, Metal, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , , , on January 6, 2023 by Metal Odyssey

Philly-based guitar hero Lawrence Wallace continues his reign as one of metal’s most intense shredders with the release of Compilation Songs. A modern take on the Shrapnel Records era of shred metal, the album is a handpicked “greatest hits” compilation of music recorded by Wallace in 2021.

Check out the album track “Limitless” at this location.

Compilation Songs is set to be released on March 1. All music and instruments were performed and recorded by Lawrence Wallace.

Tracklisting:
1) Limitless
2) War In Heaven
3) The Enchanted Mirror
4) The Awakening
5) Visions Of Another World
6) Impact Velocity
7) Journey Through Time
8) Ambush
9) Lost At Sea
10) Burst

Lawrence Wallace is a guitar and music virtuoso from the Philadelphia, PA area. He started playing at the age of 16 and has studied under Shrapnel recording artist Greg Howe. His playing is heavily influenced by celebrated shredders like Yngwie Malmsteen and Paul Gilbert. Lawrence has been in several bands, such as Shadows in The Crypt, Serpent ov Old, Infernal Opera, Chasing Squirrels, and others.

Lawrence has written well over 150 songs, including vocal and instrumental tracks, as well as soundtracks and various short clips for promo events. A creative and gifted shredder, Lawrence takes the art of instrumental guitar to the next level by incorporating a mystical, visual element into his music.

Source: ClawHammer PR

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“Unchained: The Eddie Van Halen Story” Hardcover – Releases December 28, 2021

Posted in books, classic rock, Guitar, guitarists, Hard Rock, hard rock news, Heavy Metal, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , on December 10, 2021 by Metal Odyssey

The first full-length biography of Eddie Van Halen—a searching, affectionate, and in-depth look at the remarkable life of a genuine musical virtuoso who changed the course of rock ’n’ roll.

“The game changing guitar legend gets the biography he deserves…. Diligently researched, perceptive and well-written.” —Classic Rock

Arriving in California as a young boy in the early 1960s, Edward Van Halen and his brother Alex were ripe for the coming musical revolution. The sons of a Dutch, saxophone-playing father, the brothers discovered the Beatles, Cream, and other icons as they bound together as musical partners, forming identities for themselves in their adopted home along the way.

“Affectionate and unflinching portrait of heavy metal’s Mount Everest…. Paul Brannigan goes deep here, his detailed…biography probing Van Halen’s psyche as well as his music.” —MOJO

From the moment their hugely influential 1978 debut landed, Van Halen set a high bar for the rock ’n’ roll lifestyle, creating an entirely new style of post-’60s hard rock and becoming the quintessential rock band of the 1980s. But the high-flying success was fraught with difficulty, as Eddie struggled with alcohol and drug addiction while simultaneously battling David Lee Roth over the musical direction of the band, eventually taking the band in an entirely new direction with Sammy Hagar and scaling new heights, before that iteration of Van Halen disintegrated.

Acclaimed biographer Paul Brannigan tackles the dramatic story with respect and affection for one of rock’s greatest musicians, pairing original interviews with meticulous research to bring the story of Eddie Van Halen completely up-to-date. Unchained: The Eddie Van Halen Story is a remarkable account of determination, genius, and single-minded commitment to the music.

AUTHOR BIO:

Paul Brannigan is a former editor of Kerrang! and Planet Rock magazine, and a current contributor to MOJO, Classic Rock, Metal Hammer, Kerrang! and Louder. He has previous written books on Dave Grohl, Metallica and much-missed Motorhead legend Lemmy. Born and raised in Ireland’s Six Counties, Brannigan lives in North London.

LINKS TO PURCHASE:

AMAZON: bit.ly/Unchained_EVH_AMZ

BARNES & NOBLE: bit.ly/Unchained_EVH_BN

VAN HALEN STORE: bit.ly/Unchained_EVH_VHStore

Source: Jody Best / Best Bet Promotions

REST IN PEACE, EDDIE VAN HALEN.

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Rat Pak Records Set To Release GEORGE LYNCH “Seamless”

Posted in Metal with tags , , on July 9, 2021 by Metal Odyssey

With over 40 years playing guitar and songwriting as a professional musician, career firsts are minimal for someone as prolific as George Lynch. On August 20th, George gets to add another highlight with the release of his first-ever full-length instrumental album, Seamless. The album features nine brand new tracks and three bonus tracks from Lynch who is backed by drummer Jimmy D’Anda and bassist Eric Loiselle. 

“Seamless is my attempt at creating a guitar driven instrumental record that delivers something outside the realm of what most people would expect from a guitar instrumental record coming from a semi-redeemed 80’s hair shredder. I wanted the record to be challenging but not exhausting; personal without being belligerently self-indulgent and include a fair amount of guitar histrionics and pay tribute to the masters without making it sound like I’m competing to be the end all summation of all guitar legacies that preceded me. I also wanted the underlying music to be more than vehicles for solos; I wanted the compositions to be able to stand on their own,” explains Lynch. 

From the driving guitar riff of album opener “Quiver” to the haunting outro of album closer “Falling Apart,” it is clear George Lynch was looking to explore his writing and love for the guitar. Songs like “Cola,” “Sharks With Laser Beams,” and “Supersonic Hypnotic Groove Thing” explore the various musical styles George likes to play while giving him room to experiment with new sounds alongside his signature tone. The album on all formats includes three bonus tracks that were added to the album after the extra tracks were presented to the label. “Blue Light Effect,” House Of Eternal Return” and “The Weight” also show the musical diversity that only George Lynch as a trio can create.

TRACK LISTING

1.    Quiver

2.    Cola

3.    TJ69

4.    Death By A Thousand Licks

5.    iThink

6.    Sharks With Laser Beams

7.    Octavia

8.    Supersonic Hypnotic Groove Thing 

9.    Falling Apart

BONUS TRACKS (on CD/Digital & Download Card)

10.  Blue Light Effect (Bonus Track)

11.  House Of Eternal Return (Bonus Track)

12.  The Weight (Bonus Track)

LONG LIVE GEORGE LYNCH.

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JOE SATRIANI ANNOUNCES JOE SATRIANI’S G4 EXPERIENCE 2017: SURFING WITH THE ALIEN 30th ANNIVERSARY

Posted in classic rock, Guitar, Hard Rock, Metal, rock guitarists, rock music with tags , , , , , on November 30, 2016 by Metal Odyssey

joe-satriani-g4-experience-2017-promo-pic-mo997ilmfso337

PACKAGES ON-SALE NOW  AT THE G4 EXPERIENCE

Los Angeles, CA (November 30, 2016) – JOE SATRIANI reveals the details for Joe Satriani’s G4 Experience: Surfing with the Alien 30th Anniversary July 24-28 at Asilomar Center in Carmel, CA. Packages are available at the camp’s official site starting today— http://g4experience.com/

For its fourth installment, the G4 Experience enjoys a game-changing and historic first. The camp will celebrate the writing, recording, and performance of SATRIANI’s seminal GRAMMY Award-nominated, platinum-selling 1987 epic, Surfing with the Alien – one of the most successful instrumental guitar albums ever made. Recognizing the record’s 30th anniversary, campers will enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pull back the curtain on the album with the visionaries behind the music.

SATRIANI will be joined by longtime co-conspirator and Surfing with the Alien co-producer John Cuniberti in addition to other special guests. His original live band during the record’s tour cycle, Stu Hamm and Jonathan Mover, return for the first time since 1995 for the evening’s performances.

About Joe Satriani’s G4 Experience: Surfing with the Alien 30th Anniversary, SATRIANI says, “To this day, every fan conversation ends up referencing Surfing with the Alien. We thought the best way to celebrate its 30th birthday would be to devote the 2017 G4 Experience to all things Surfing. It’s such a special moment for me, and I can’t wait to see everyone there so we can relive this album together and create new memories in the process.”

Sign-up is encouraged immediately as the event will sell out soon!

Source:

MAD Ink PR

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE JOE SATRIANI.

Stone.

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MURASHITA Debut EP ‘Inescapable Damnation’ Is Out Now!

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, Music, news, rock music with tags , , , , on October 28, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Murashita - Inescapable Damnation - promo cover pic - 2015 - #03303377MO

Inescapable Damnation, the debut EP from Thrash Beast MURASHITA, is out now. Order it at:

http://masakimurashita.bigcartel.com/product/murashita-inescapable-damnation-ep

The title track, which features contributions from MEGADETH bassist Dave Ellefson and drum guru Kevin Talley, is streaming at this location or below:

The official lyric video for opening track “Retribution,” featuring Talley and bassist Kelly Conlon (DEATH, MONSTROSITY), is available here.

MURASHITA is the new project masterminded by renowned guitarist, producer and engineer Masaki Murashita.  Inescapable Damnation features performances from David Ellefson (Megadeth), Kevin Talley (Suffocation, Six Feet Under, Chimaira), Kelly Conlon (Death, Monstrosity) and Rodney McGlothlin (Voice of Dissent).

Murashita - logo - 2014 - Masaki Murashita

Critical Praise:

“Fun, bouncy and unafraid to tear your fucking throat out Inescapable Damnation gets at the beauty of heavy metal…” – Two Guys Metal Reviews

“Kings are born kings, so don’t waste your time and pay homage to Murashita. Now, you mortal!” – Dark Souls United

“The EP as a whole is the definition of thrash, but brings different elements into the mix which creates Murashita’s own signature sound.” – Metal Nexus

“…Masaki brings his lead guitar and scorching vocals back to the forefront with his solo debut and I am left completely jubilant at what I’ve been listening to…” 5/5 – Metal Odyssey

“The production is great, the music is good and the guest musicians are handpicked with great care.” – Lords of Metal

“From start to end, very much an artistic wonder. They have something sick and unique here.” 10/10 – Taste of Khaos

“With outstanding guitar work, great lyrics and a complete lack of conformity to industry expectations, Inescapable Damnation is a metal manifestation.” – Full Metal Rock

Masaki Murashita - promo pic - 2015 - #0303MSSM4E77

Masaki Murashita first showed his scorching riffs and powerful songwriting, along with his blistering and aggressive vocal style with the critically acclaimed modern thrash band Hemoptysis in 2007 and he has been clawing his way to the top ever since. Combining elements of melody, thrash and modern extreme metal, Masaki has molded his own razor-sharp brand of metal that is moving into the next stage of metal evolution.

MURASHITA is now releasing the debut solo EP, Inescapable Damnation, which features some of the top players in metal – including David Ellefson (Megadeth), Kevin Talley (Suffocation, Six Feet Under, Chimaira), Kelly Conlon (Death, Monstrosity), Rodney McGlothlin (Voice of Dissent) – and mixing by award-winning producer, Ryan Greene (Megadeth, NOFX).

Early previews of the new MURASHITA release performed on EMGtv were met with overwhelmingly positive reviews. The international tour to support Inescapable Damnation began in Japan this past September.

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* For more info on Masaki Murashita:

www.masakimurashita.com

www.facebook.com/murashitamusic

www.youtube.com/user/masakimurashita

Clawhammer PR - promo logo - 2015 - #0323CHMO

Source: ClawHammer PR

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE MASAKI MURASHITA.

LONG LIVE METAL.

Stone.

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Wanna See My “Essential Michael Schenker Group” CD? It’s Really Cool…

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Metal, Music, rock music with tags , , , , on June 17, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Michael Schenker Group - The Essential - promo front cover CD - #05MOMS

That’s it at the top! That’s my Essential Michael Schenker Group CD! Is that really cool or what?

_________________________

The Essential Michael Schenker Group was released back in 1992, via EMI Records Group / Chrysalis. I bought this CD as part of the same bundle of used CD’s that my DIO Anthology CD was in:

Wanna See My DIO “Anthology” CD? It’s Really Cool…

Whoa! Once again, the collector side of me cannot pass up a Michael Schenker greatest hits title, regardless of already owning the songs. Besides, when it comes to these used CD bundles, I always pay a really, really good price!

What I find interesting is that I’ve always LOVED the MSG ballad: Never Trust A Stranger. This song’s music and lyrics have always chilled me out in such a grand way, it’s amazing. I know what y’all are thinking: c’mon, Stone, Michael Schenker has TONS of better songs than that!

When I come across older CD’s or vinyl records (that I don’t have) of my Metal and Hard Rock heroes, while Metal hunting in public, I begin to sweat profusely and feel like I’m high. I cannot control it, it’s the way my body and brain are wired. TRUTH. Metal Be Thy Name!

Track List:

1. Armed And Ready, 2. Cry For The Nations, 3. Bijou Pleasurette, 4. Into The Arena, 5. Attack Of The Mad Axeman, 6. On And On, 7. Never Trust A Stranger, 8. Assault Attack, 9. Rock You To The Ground, 10. Samurai, 11. Desert Song, 12. Captain Nemo (Single Version), 13. Rock Will Never Die (Live At The Hammersmith Odeon), 14. Still Love That Little Devil, 15. Don’t Take It Out On Me

__________________________

Stone - Motorhead Tee pic:small

LONG LIVE MICHAEL SCHENKER.

Stone.

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MASAKI MURASHITA – Featured On Providence Cables Advertising

Posted in Death Metal, Extreme Metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, Metal, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news, Thrash Metal with tags , , , , , , on June 21, 2013 by Metal Odyssey

Masaki Murashita - Providence Cables - promo ad - 2013

Masaki Murashita –  Lead Singer, Guitarist, Songwriter, Lyricist And Founder Of Hemoptysis

______________________________

Check out Providence LTD cables and pedals if you haven’t heard of them before. I’ve been using their cables for over 5 years and I can’t use other cables. I am honored to be on one of the posters they have!

– Masaki Murashita

_____________________________________________

* For more info on MASAKI MURASHITA, click below!

Facebook: Hemoptysis

http://www.hemoptysismetal.com

* For more info on HEMOPTYSIS, click below!

Facebook: Masaki Murashita

http://www.masakimurashita.com

Stone - Motorhead Tee pic:small

LONG LIVE MASAKI MURASHITA.

LONG LIVE HEMOPTYSIS.

Stone.

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Acclaimed Guitarist JOHN MCLAUGHLIN Announces Release Of “Now Here This” Set For October 18TH Release On Abstract Logix

Posted in Guitar, guitarists, jazz, jazz fusion, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , on July 24, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

(Los Angeles, CA) – It has been nearly two years since world-renowned guitarist John McLaughlin released To the One, his highly acclaimed, first studio recording, with The 4th Dimension. The veteran guitar aficionado celebrates his 70th birthday year with the announcement of Now Here This (Abstract Logix) set for release on October 18th as he ups-the-ante even further with greater fire, finesse and freewheeling interplay.

McLaughlin’s musical influences carry over to many of the musical elite also declaring him to be “the best guitarist alive,” as Jeff Beck mused in 2010. In 2003, McLaughlin was ranked 49th in Rolling Stone magazine list of the “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time” and in the summer of 2007, McLaughlin performed at Eric Clapton’s Crossroad Guitar Festival in Bridgeview, Illinois.

Chick Corea remarked to DownBeat Magazine that “…what John McLaughlin did with the electric guitar set the world on its ear.  No one ever heard an electric guitar played like that before, and it certainly inspired me. John’s band, more than my experience with Miles, led me to want to turn the volume up and write music that was more dramatic and made your hair stand on end.”

McLaughlin’s latest creative venture with The 4th Dimension reflects a slight, yet significant, alteration of the dynamic, specifically the recruitment of powerhouse Indian drummer Ranjit Barot.  Cameroon-born/Paris-resident bassist Etienne M’Bappe is back from To the One, as is keyboardist/drummer Gary Husband. This 8-track set of McLaughlin originals, recorded at Studio 26 in Antibes, France, testifies to the guitarist’s decades-long fascination with Indian music, through his effortless virtuosity, and relentless lyricism, even when the guitarist is shredding at near-light speed.   As John himself simply states, “Now Here This is the culmination of my life’s work till now.”

The critical praise for McLaughlin’s previous musical venture cascaded forth immediately; John Fordham of The Guardian declared, “…this tight 40-minute document hums with a collaborative energy.”  There is little doubt that McLaughlin’s return to the electrified fusion he first innovated more than 40 years ago in groups led by trumpet icon Miles Davis and drum legend Tony Williams – and, of course, with his own earth-shattering Mahavishnu Orchestra – is as electrifying and exhilarating as ever. And for those new to the genre, Now Here This is the perfect introduction – one that will surely encourage them to also dive, head-first, into this legendary guitarist’s lengthy and groundbreaking discography.

________________________________________________________________

(Source: MAD Ink, PR)

Long Live John McLaughlin.

Stone.

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SIX FEET UNDER – Announce Dean Markley Endorsement; Additional Dates Added To European Summer Tour

Posted in Death Metal, death metal bands, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , on July 19, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

Bassist Jeff Hughell and guitarist Steve Swanson of American Death Metal giants SIX FEET UNDER are pleased to announce their recent endorsement with Dean Markley strings!

Comments Hughell: “Dean Markley are the only strings that can handle my finger domination! I’ve been using Dean Markley strings for almost 20 years and they are the only strings that have the brightness to cut through especially in Metal!”

Adds Swanson: “I would like to thank all at Dean Markley for representing us with strings, as they are awesome! I’m happy to be part of the Dean Markley family!”

In related news, SIX FEET UNDER recently added additional show to their upcoming European tour where the band will play some exclusive festival gigs as well as selected club shows.

SIX FEET UNDER Undead Euro Tour 2012:

8/05/2012 Alte Zuckerfabrik – Rostock, DE

8/06/2012 Progresja – Warschau, PL

8/08/2012 Posthalle – Würzburg, DE

8/09/2012 Baroeg – Rotterdam, NL

8/10/2012 Buze – Steenwijk, NL

8/11/2012 Brutal Assault Festival – Jaromer, CZ

8/12/2012 Postbahnhof  – Berlin, DE ***

8/13/2012 Backstage – München, DE ***

8/14/2012 Galerie – Pratteln, CH ***

8/15/2012 Turock – Essen, DE ***

8/16/2012 Rock Temple – Kerkrade, NL ***

8/17/2012 Summer Breeze – Dinkelsbühl, DE

8/18/2012 Grünspan – Hamburg, DE ***

*** w/ Dew-Scented, Deadborn

SIX FEET UNDER will be touring in support of Undead, their latest platter of merciless extremity. Crowned “the best thing SFU have recorded since Maximum Violence,” by Decibel, “an album on which this new level of musicianship adds value without tarnishing SIX FEET UNDER’s legacy of brutality,” by Outburn and simply a “kickass SIX FEET UNDER record,” by Revolver, Undead entered the Billboard Heatseekers Chart at #5 upon its first week of release!

In addition, Undead landed at at #30 on the Billboard Top Independent Album Chart, #22 on the Billboard Top Hard Music Albums Chart, #14 Billboard Top Current Albums Chart and #183 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart.

_____________________________________________________________________

(Source: Earsplit PR)

* For more info on SIX FEET UNDER, click on the links below!

http://www.metalblade.com/sixfeetunder

http://www.myspace.com/sixfeetunder

http://twitter.com/sixfeetofficial

LONG LIVE SIX FEET UNDER.

Stone.

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JOE WALSH “Analog Man” – Some Fun & Random Thoughts From Stone (Part Two)

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, hard rock albums, Music, rock albums, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , on June 12, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

JOE WALSH – I’ve been listening to Analog Man, the new solo album from the legendary Joe Walsh and decided to write my random thoughts on it. It has been a couple of decades since Joe Walsh released a solo album and Analog Man is a dandy. These fun and random thoughts will be posted in a series of parts.

Here is Part Two:

I am going to discuss in Part Two, the title track: Analog Man. What a song. (What an album for that matter and that is a topic for another time). Analog Man is an autobiographical song (and album) about Joe Walsh; only this title track represents how some of us old schoolers feel about the rapid ascent of the digital world; especially when this same digital world has tried to send analog into extinction. I lived the majority of my teen years during the 80’s and I still hold quite an affection towards analog.

Joe Walsh lyrically describes himself as an Analog Man and justifiably so. With so many generations that grew up with vinyl (45’s, LP’s & even 78’s), 8-tracks and cassettes, the digital revolution took us all by surprise in the early 80’s and I for one was never prepared. (Despite my being the first dude in the old neighborhood to own a Realistic CD player from Radio Shack). What I learned in college for computer technology was obsolete one year after I graduated! Plus, I, like Joe Walsh, have had a ten-year old show me how to use functions on a laptop and cell phone for that matter! That is absolutely not a lie.

When I first listened to this song, I kept nodding my head to both this song’s rhythmic beats and (agreement) to its lyrics. Joe Walsh nailed it when it comes to (the widespread social change of) movie ratings; with murder and violence getting the PG more often than R. Heck, I can remember when the Nightmare On Elm Street and Friday The 13th movies were rated R at the theaters. Now, these same slasher films are shown on Saturday afternoons (with little to no editing), on numerous cable networks.

The “new age” of television is touched upon by Joe Walsh so well in Analog Man. “With 100’s of channels and nothing being on” referenced, I can surely understand Joe’s point here. I find it amusing that there are numerous 24/7 news networks to begin with. We live in an era of information overkill and still advertisers flock to hock their products on these redundant networks.

The “digital dream” that Joe Walsh references throughout this title track is never going away anytime soon in our now global social network culture. Maybe I’m living the digital dream with Metal Odyssey? I’m also guilty as charged experiencing instant gratification of mp3 downloads… and it’s a necessary function of being a part of the music blogosphere.

In short summary, Analog Man is a lyrically genuine and super fun song that I definitely relate to. It’s as if Joe Walsh took the words right out of my mouth. Oh… this song without question Rocks my ears off too. Metal be thy name.

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* For more info on JOE WALSH, click on the link below!

http://joewalsh.com/

LONG LIVE JOE WALSH.

The word “dandy” was used in this post.

Stone.

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JOE WALSH “Analog Man” – Some Fun & Random Thoughts From Stone (Part One)

Posted in classic rock, classic rock albums, Guitar, guitarists, Hard Rock, Music, rock and roll, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , on June 8, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

JOE WALSH – Yesterday I bought the new Joe Walsh CD, Analog Man (the CD/DVD Limited Deluxe Edition) and I’m quite chipper about it. This is the first solo album from Joe Walsh in two decades; I have found both the music and lyrics to be incredibly inspiring. I find it remarkably amazing, how one new album such as Analog Man can trigger so many thoughts about music and life! I’ve always felt that music can connect the dots and profoundly act as a universal language within our fast-paced world.

The Rock ‘N Roll thoughts have been pouring from my brain, since my picking up Analog Man and delving into its music, lyrics and bountiful liner notes. Therefore, I will be writing about my thoughts on Analog Man, from the lyrical content to my memories of hearing Joe Walsh on the radio as an innocent young lad in the seventies. My writings will be posted in parts, all being inspired from Analog Man.

This is a Joe Walsh – Analog Man custom sport metallic watch! Whoa. Do I own one? Nope.

Here Is Part One:

I’ve always been lured by the vocals, musicianship and songwriting of Joe Walsh. What’s “always” Stone? Well, it all started a long time ago, in a childhood far, far, away. I used to hear the song Walk Away from James Gang being played on the radio back in the 70’s and fell in love with it quite easily. I couldn’t get the lyrics or guitar out of my head! Did I actually know who Joe Walsh was back then? Of course I didn’t.

Onto the Eagles. I would hear Hotel California, Life In The Fast Lane and New Kid In Town on none other than… the radio. Onto the solo career of Joe Walsh and the radio airwaves consistently played Life’s Been Good. I was in 7th grade during 1978 and thought this song was damn good! All these songs I’ve mentioned remind me of going camping with my family back in those late 70’s. (Whoa). It’s due to the widespread campers playing their radios really loud all the time… it would be “battle of the Woolworth’s, Montgomery Ward (or Sears) cheap radios”. This was before the big (and expensive) “boom boxes” became popular.

Joe Walsh – But Seriously, Folks… (1978 – Asylum)

During 1976, 1977 and 1978, I still had no clue that Joe Walsh was a key figure involved in these (eventual) iconic songs. However, that all changed in 1979. Read on for more excitement…

When the Eagles released The Long Run, I was psyched-out by Heartache Tonight. Every kid in my class was psyched-out by this song back then. 1979 was a huge year for me; kissing a girl (or two) for the first time, getting chicken pox, missing my eighth grade graduation from Parochial school due to the chicken pox, going to the Dom Perno’s University Of Connecticut Summer Basketball Camp and receiving The Long Run (on vinyl) as a christmas present from my parents. Phew.

Uh… before I actually received The Long Run as a Christmas gift, well, um… I honestly thought Heartache Tonight was titled and sung as: Party Tonight. Red Forman, the father character from That 70’s Show would have said to me: “Stone, you’re a dumb ass.” As messed up as it sounds, my school friends and I would sing at the top of our lungs, during recess: “There’s gonna be a party tonight! A party tonight I know!” Back in ’79, we were all a bunch of dumb asses in that Parochial school playground.

I remember the album jacket  for The Long Run was a gatefold. I would stare at each member of The Eagles, as each song from this album played on my turntable. It got to the point where I actually thought each band member was staring back at me. (Whoa). My favorite song from The Long Run then and now? In The City. Guess what? After holding and staring at that gatefold album jacket of The Long Run and listening to In The City about 999 times on my $25 turntable and before the New Year of 1980 was ushered in, I finally knew who Joe Walsh really was. Metal be thy name!

In The City appears on The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack for the 1979 film: The Warriors. I remember (finally) seeing this movie on HBO during the early 80’s. It’s a (violent) cult classic. I’ve never owned this soundtrack; I probably will buy it eventually, one day.

My Joe Walsh – Analog Man thoughts will continue… stay tuned!

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* Joe Walsh – Analog Man was released on June 5th, 2012, via Fantasy.

* For more info on JOE WALSH, click on the link below!

http://joewalsh.com/

LONG LIVE JOE WALSH.

Stone.

8 Comments »

Stéphan Forté ‘The Shadows Compendium’ – Guitar Virtuoso Creates An Instrumental Album Of Sensation

Posted in Guitar, guitarists, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, heavy metal news, melodic metal, metal music, Music, rock guitarists, rock music, rock music news, symphonic metal with tags , , , , , , , , on February 25, 2012 by Metal Odyssey

Stéphan Forté – This is an instrumental album from guitar virtuoso Stéphan Forté. A seasoned musician who is highly respected within the guitar world of the world-famous and novice alike, Stéphan will have his new album, The Shadows Compendium, released on February 28th, 2012, via Listenable Records.

Stéphan Forté is exceptionally known for being the founder and guitarist for the French Progressive Metal band – Adagio. This album features the meat and potatoes of  a rhythm section, while the keyboards play an extensive and exciting role within these songs. Symphonic, melodic and built on delectable speed, while guitar is the star, The Shadows Compendium is not an album to miss in 2012.

If you’ve never heard the guitar playing of Stéphan, Neoclassical is the key word here. In the event you are a casual fan or die-hard loyalist to Yngwie Malmsteen, then the guitar brilliance of Stéphan will ignite your senses into six and seven-string overdrive and send you into axe shredding bliss. As with his legendary peers, (to name a select few) the likes of Michael Schenker, Vinnie Moore and (of course) Yngwie Malmsteen, Stéphan plays his guitar with such unique emotion that it comes across as vocals.

The technical playing that is showcased by Stéphan is pure art that accentuates his aptitude for speed and melodies, while the never-ending illusion that something magical is happening will always drift into my senses as I listen to The Shadows Compendium. Not an imitator and original as one could wish for from a guitarist of Metal, there is no denying, that Stéphan has his very own alluring tonal identity with his Lag signature guitar.

Stéphan is within a world-class tier of Metal guitarists or guitarists of any genre for that matter. All 8 songs are rich with all the flamboyance of Stéphan’s fret mastery, while never caving in to any dull interludes, (the) ones that usually hinder any sense of musical elevation that’s already been established. Musically sound and stimulating on all grounds, The Shadows Compendium not only showcases a guitarist that has arrived to legendary status, this album reflects Stéphan’s respect for a song’s texture and most importantly its purpose.

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The Shadows Compendium – Track Listing & Guest Musicians:

I – The Shadows Compendium (Guests: Jeff Loomis / Nevermore & Franck Hermanny/ Adagio)

II – De Praestigiis Daemonum (Guest Mattias IA Eklundh / Freak Kitchen)

III – Spiritual Bliss

IV – Duat (Guest: Glen Drover/ ex Megadeth)

V – Sorrowful Centruroides (Guest: Derek Taylor /Solo artist)

VI – Prophecies Of Loki XXI

VII – I think there’s someone in the kitchen (Guest: Daniele Gottardo/Solo Artist)

VIII – Improvisation on Sonata no. 14, c # minor – Op. 27 no 2

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* For more info on Stéphan Forté, click on the links below:

http://www.stephanforte.org/

http://www.facebook.com/stephanforte

Long Live Stéphan Forté.

Stone.

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George Lynch – Guitar Legend: Happy Birthday From Metal Odyssey!

Posted in celebrity birthdays, classic rock, guitarists, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , on September 28, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

GEORGE LYNCH – Influential and legendary guitarist and songwriter – George Lynch, aka “Mr. Scary” turns 57 years young today. George Lynch was born on September 28th, 1954. Happy Birthday George!

George Lynch has had an amazing career in Hard Rock and Heavy Metal, with his notable tenure as Dokken’s lead guitarist being an important chapter in Heavy Metal and Hard Rock history. George’s post Dokken career is yet another standout chapter in Heavy Music history. George has enjoyed much admirable success with his Heavy Metal/Hard Rock band Lynch Mob along with his highly respected solo career.

Back on July 19th, 2011, the brand new George Lynch album Kill All Control was released. This blazingly Hard Rockin’ and Heavy Hittin’ album features the virtuosic guitar of George Lynch, while boasting the vocals of: Marc Torien, Will Marten and Keith St. John.

I once had the pleasure to interview George Lynch back in 2010 for Rob Rockitt’s industry-wide respected Hard Rock Hideout. To say George was a genuine and nice guy while we conversed is an underestimation. George loves to play and listen to all kinds of music and you can read all about it for yourself, by clicking on the large header link below:

GEORGE LYNCH – THE HARD ROCK HIDEOUT INTERVIEW!

* For more info on GEORGE LYNCH, click on the link below:

George Lynch – The Official George Lynch Website

LONG LIVE GEORGE LYNCH.

Stone.

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The Devin Townsend Project – Deconstruction and Ghost: Both New Albums Release June 21st, 2011!

Posted in Extreme Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, progressive metal, progressive rock, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , on June 12, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

THE DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT – The third and fourth albums in The Devin Townsend Project series, Deconstruction and Ghost, respectively, will be released simultaneously on June 21st, 2011, via Devin Townsend’s record label HevyDevy and Insideout Music.

Stone Says:

Legendary multi-instrumentalist, singer, producer and songwriter Devin Townsend has proven his Metal and music genius time and again. From Strapping Young Lad to The Devin Townsend Project with his solo material in-between, there is much to be enthralled by and digested from the unique and extraordinary catalog of albums that Devin Townsend has stamped his musical imprint on. From Extreme Metal to Experimental, with Progressive not withstanding, Devin Townsend has touched on multiple music genres and has created an impressive legacy that continues into 2011 and beyond.

Deconstruction – Track Listing:

Praise The Lowered

Stand

Juular

Planet Of The Apes

Sumeria

The Mighty Masturbator

Pandemic

Deconstruction

Poltergeist

GHOST – Track Listing:

Fly

Heart Baby

Feather

Kawaii

Ghost

Blackberry

Monsoon

Dark Matters

Texada

Seams

Infinite Ocean

As You Were

* For more info on Devin Townsend’s other solo albums, Strapping Young Lad albums and The Devin Townsend Project, click on the link below:

DEVIN TOWNSEND

LONG LIVE DEVIN TOWNSEND.

Stone.

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Masaki Murashita – Hemoptysis Frontman Launches MasakiMurashita.com!

Posted in Extreme Metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news, Thrash Metal, thrash metal music with tags , , , , , , , , , , on June 8, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(Photo Credit: Eyeful Images Photographic Arts)

MASAKI MURASHITA – Best known for his role as the lead vocalist/guitarist for the critically acclaimed Thrash Metal power house, Hemoptysis, Masaki Murashita is an accomplished musician, songwriter, and recording engineer with over six years of experience in the entertainment industry.

He has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Grammy Award winning producer Ryan Greene (NOFX, Authority Zero, F5), platinum selling recording artist Megadeth, and metal underground heavy hitters Agoraphobic Nosebleed, and Benedictum.

Personal endorsements include Jackson Guitars, Engl Amps, EMG Pickups, Providence cables, straps and effects, Morley pedals, Maxon (Godlyke), InTune Guitar Picks, SIT Strings, Coffin Case, and Mono Case.

In regards to the website, Masaki stated, “A career in music is tough, and you need to diversify in order to make ends meet. While I am first and foremost a founding member of Hemoptyisis, I am also a recording engineer, and keep an open mind regarding other music-oriented opportunities. This website will no doubt aid in expanding my horizons, allowing me to reach a whole new level as a music industry professional.”

Masaki and Hemoptysis have recently released the group’s debut full length album, “Misanthropic Slaughter” in both the USA and Europe to literally hundreds of rave reviews.

For more information regarding Masaki Murashita and services available, please visit http://masakimurashita.com

(Source: Hemoptysis/Masaki Murashita)

LONG LIVE MASAKI MURASHITA.

Stone.

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Hemoptysis – Guitarist Masaki Murashita Releases Video Demo Of ENGL Fireball 100

Posted in Death Metal, Extreme Metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal news, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news, Thrash Metal with tags , , , , , , , , , , on May 20, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(Photo Credit: Eyeful Images Photographic Arts)

Hemoptysis guitarist Masaki Murashita has posted a video demonstration of ENGL’s Fireball 100. The Video features Murashita playing through the Fireball 100 with different music styles, demonstrating the Fireballs ability to work under various conditions, and settings. The video is available in English, as well as Murashita’s native language of Japanese.

English version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-c5Ne20gto

Japanese version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1dJCm2gI-M

Hemoptysis’ debut album is available in Europe beginning on May 27, 2011. European pre-orders are available now through Amazon at this location. Misanthropic Slaughter is available in Europe via Rock It Up Records, and as a bonus features the music video for Shadow of Death.

Hemoptysis on the net:

Official Site: http://www.hemoptysismetal.com/

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/hemoptysismetal

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/hemoptysis

Facebook http://www.facebook.com/murashitamusic

LONG LIVE HEMOPTYSIS.

Stone.

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Yngwie Malmsteen “relentless” – Releases November 22, 2010!

Posted in guitar legends, Hard Rock, hard rock music, Heavy Metal, heavy metal guitarists, heavy metal music, heavy metal news, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on November 6, 2010 by Metal Odyssey

YNGWIE MALMSTEEN – Guitar legend and arguably guitar god, Yngwie Malmsteen will be releasing relentless on his own Rising Force Records. The street date for relentless is November 22, 2010. Once again, this is another solid reminder, that 2010 is not yet over when it comes to highly anticipated Heavy Metal album releases.

I am used to Tuesday being the “release” date for new albums, the release date of November 22nd falls on a Monday for restless. Everywhere this new Yngwie Malmsteen album is mentioned, the same release date of November 22nd is stated. It really makes no difference to me… I’m Metal psyched just knowing that Yngwie Malmsteen has this album coming out, period!

What compliments and praise can be said about Yngwie Malmsteen that hasn’t already been stated? My Metal adulation for Yngwie can go on for thousands of words… I guess I’ve made my Metal point. It’s just a cozy feeling knowing that another Yngwie album is coming out… and just in time for Thanksgiving too.

Tim “Ripper” Owens will be making his second appearance as vocalist for Yngwie Malmsteen. His first album with Yngwie was on 2008’s Perpetual Flame. For those who may be unfamiliar, Tim “Ripper” Owens has been the lead vocalist for Judas Priest, Winters Bane and Iced Earth. “Ripper” also founded his own band, Beyond Fear, which they released their one album in 2006, aptly titled, Beyond Fear. Metal Supergroup, Charred Walls Of The Damned showcases “Ripper” on lead vocals and their self-titled debut album was released in February of 2010.

Track Listing For relentless:

Overture

Critical Mass

Shot Across The Bow

Look At You Now

Relentless

Enemy Within

Knight Of The Vasa Order

Caged Animal

Into Valhalla

Tide Of Desire

Adagio B Flat Minor Variation

Axe To Grind

Blinded

Cross To Bear

Arpeggios From Hell

LONG LIVE YNGWIE J. MALMSTEEN.

The word “cozy” was used as an adjective in this Metal Odyssey post.

Stone.

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