The Hooters “35” Live 2015 Tour! Check the tour schedule below for preliminary list of dates. More details will be available soon. For ticket info and updates, click the link below:
http://www.hootersmusic.com/tour.php?id=74
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Source:
Stone.
Norway’s legendary TNT released a live 19 song album and its full proper title is: 30th Anniversary 1982-2012 Live In Concert With Trondheim Symphony Orchestra. This album was released back on November 10th of 2014. With the legendary Tony Harnell being such an important member in the history of TNT, it is only fitting that this symphonic Heavy Metal concert features him on vocals. Anytime Tony Harnell rejoins TNT, it’s fine to me! With the uncertainty of TNT’s future with or without Tony Harnell aside, this live album is a steel-solid must for every TNT and Classic Heavy Metal and Hard Rock fan.
This album marks the third official live album from TNT and each one features Tony Harnell on vocals. Tony Harnell was the lead singer and co-songwriter on eight consecutive TNT studio albums, from 1984 to 2005. If you are unfortunate to not have experienced TNT in concert (like myself) then this live album (and its live predecessors) will be as close as you can get in taking in a TNT concert. It took me many listens to this album to confidently give it such high praise; the more I listened, the more I have absorbed the details.
Photo credit: TNT Facebook
Above: Tony Harnell fronted TNT
The grandiose element of featuring all three lead singers from TNT’s legendary Hard Rock history on this album, makes for fantastic fraternity. Original vocalist Dag Ingebrigtsen and post-Tony Harnell era vocalist Tony Mills are also featured during this recorded concert. The great Tony Mills remains an outstanding vocalist and had carried the vocalist torch with TNT for more than a few years, singing on TNT’s last three studio albums.
We are always at the mercy of the live recording and rely on a conscientious and true production. With this live TNT album, there are many musical aspects to this concert; the symphony, the band, vocals, backing vocals and guitar solos. That may be nothing new, however, when listening to a live album such as this, everything needs to come together in close to perfection sonically, as if I was actually sitting in the arena where it all happened. I believe TNT succeeded in delivering a memorable live experience to my ears, anyways.
Above: L to R: Tony Harnell and Ronni Le Tekrø
Tony Harnell is (per usual) top-tier vocally and these TNT vocalists could be considered to be unknowingly dueling with the symphony orchestra at times. In reality, this is still a recording and capturing for digital download or CD every vocal nuance spot-on, with so much spectacular music being performed, is not going to be an easy task. TNT as a unit are nothing short of fabulous, these are incredible musicians that seem to fit perfectly with the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra, this is the Electric Light Orchestra meets TNT, if you will, only super better. After so many listens to this album, it just all makes 100% sense to me.
Rest assured, TNT rocks-it-out on this album and the captured sounds of the fans in attendance only elevates the rockin’ psyched out mood and atmosphere. When the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra kicks into Sabre Dance on track #11, it’s as if the musical magic can still be non-Metal at times in my life. My favorite songs on this live album are, in no particular order: Invisible Noise, Northern Lights, My Religion, Eddie, Intuition, Magica Lanterna, the swingin’ June and the insane grand guitar solo by the great Ronni Le Tekrø. Northern Lights, Eddie and Magica Lanterna are songs that create goose bump city all over my face and arms. Yup. I will enjoy this TNT 30th Anniversary live album for the rest of my Metal life. Metal be thy name. – Stone
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* For more info on TNT:
Facebook: TNT
Stone.
Above is a photo of, from L to R: drummer Matt Starr, singer Giancarlo Floridia and lead guitarist Alex De Rosso at Namm 2015!
Now taking over production an keys for the new album is Alessandro Del Vecchio (Hardline/ Revolution Saints) which has got off to an awesome start of a blend of melodic arena rock and in your face metal.
Faithsedge starts recording off with both new members drummer Matt Starr (Mr. Big /Ace Frehley) and Stryper bassist Tim Gaines, delivering a crushing new rhythm section.
The new Pat Travers Band album, Live At The Iridium NYC, will be released on January 23rd in Europe and January 27th in North America, via Frontiers Music SRL. Wow, is this the perfect album to get my mind off of the dreadful world news of the day! This is marvelous, live Classic, Bluesy, Hard Rock that gives my energy meter a much-needed boost; a welcomed Rockin’ jolt of joy that helped ease my soul, during that awful Polar Vortex invasion that overbooked itself here in the Midwest, this past week.
This is a live album that is so well done, I can close my eyes and pretend I have a close spot at the stage, while my earbuds let the irresistible Rock vibrations from Pat Travers Band free flow through my cerebrum. Man, they don’t make ’em like Pat Travers Band anymore. Heck, this live Pat Travers album should be required listening in every music appreciation class, cause this is how a band plays live without going through the motions. There’s real excitement in this live album and it likely shall cascade on to generations more to enjoy!
The unmistakable tones that Pat Travers creates with his guitar, along with the rhythms and beats from his band make for a sonic elixir of goodness. Forever relevant and substantial are these songs from Pat Travers Band and hearing them live only adds to my re-appreciating them all the more. The Ray Charles classic I’ve Got News For You soars once again, with the Bluesy rendition that Pat Travers Band gives it. Whiz -bang, great stuff! Jon Paris is prodigious on the Blues Harp; he brings an added bluesy emotion to songs: If I had Possession Over Judgement Day and Spoonful.
A live album so full of energy and positive vibrations! Pat Travers and Kirk McKim are a dual six-string jammin’ machine and Lone Wolf / Red House only magnifies my belief. Who can’t resist the Bluesy essence of the song classic: Black Betty? I can’t resist Black Betty and Pat Travers Band closes out this live album with that everlasting number.
There is so much to delight in, if you love Classic Rock, Hard Rock and/or Blues Rock. I’m only the messenger of what I’ve heard and enjoyed (many times over) from Pat Travers Band Live At The Iridium NYC; hopefully you’ll pick this album up and love it like I do.
Track Listing: Rock And Roll Susie; Gettin’ Betta; Crash And Burn; Heat In The Street; Josephine; I’ve Got News For You; Ask Me Baby; I La, La, La Love You; Lone Wolf (Kirk solo) / Red House; If I Had Possession Over Judgement Day; Spoonful; Black Betty
PAT TRAVERS BAND:
Pat Travers – Guitar, Vocals
Kirk McKim – Guitar, Vocals
Rodney O’Quinn – Bass Guitar, Vocals
Sandy Gennaro – Drums
Jon Paris – guest on “Blues Harp” on “If I Had Possession Over Judgment Day” and “Spoonful”
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* For more info on PAT TRAVERS BAND:
Website: http://pattravers.com/
Website: http://www.frontiers.it/
Stone.
On January 9th, 1983 – KISS performed at the University Of Dayton Arena. KISS were touring in support of their tenth studio album: Creatures Of The Night. This whiz-bang album was released in October of 1982.
On January 9th, 1984 – Van Halen released their sixth studio album MCMLXXXIV or what is more commonly written as: 1984. This Van Halen album featured many chart hits as: Jump, Panama, Hot For Teacher and I’ll Wait. Eddie Van Halen also introduced the keyboards as an integral part of this 1984 album. 1984 stands as Van Halen’s best-selling album to date, with 10 million (plus) units sold, per the RIAA. Whoa!
On January 9th, 1987 – The mighty IRON MAIDEN performed at the Civic Arena, aka The Igloo, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This was one of numerous dates on IRON MAIDEN’s Somewhere On Tour. This tour began in September of 1986 and ended in May of 1997. IRON MAIDEN were touring in support of their sixth studio album, released in 1996: Somewhere In Time.
Born on January 9th, 1944 in England was Jimmy Page. Happy birthday, Jimmy Page! Whoa and yeah! Jimmy Page is famously known as an influential guitarist, songwriter and founding member of the iconic Led Zeppelin. ‘Nuff said!
Jimmy Page was also a member of The Yardbirds, The Firm and collaborated with David Coverdale and Robert Plant on respective studio albums. Led Zeppelin was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 1995 and presented by Aerosmith. The Yardbirds were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 1992. Long live Jimmy Page!
Above: Phil Lewis, shown in center, circa late 80’s photo.
Born in England on January 9th, 1957 was Phil Lewis. Happy birthday, Phil Lewis! Hell, yeah! Phil Lewis is famously known as the lead singer for the Hard Rock band: L.A. Guns. Phil Lewis also was a co-founding member, songwriter and lead singer for the English Hard Rock band: Girl.
Phil Collen (guitarist of Def Leppard fame) was also a co-founding member of Girl. A true Glam and Sleaze Rock influence and legend is Phil Lewis. Long live Phil Lewis!
Above: Girl Wasted Youth album cover, from 1982.
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Stone.
As written by Pete Agnew (Nazareth bassist and co-founding member) and posted as A Christmas Message on www.nazarethdirect.co.uk:
It’s been a funny kinda year. When we started out in January we weren’t sure if we would be continuing as a band but after playing some rehearsals with Linton —– well you all know what happened.
Because it took some time to put things back together, we didn’t start booking shows until later in the year than we normally do so it ended up with us touring a lot less than previous years.
This won’t be the case in 2015. We still managed to see quite a few of you and were delighted with the reception you gave us. It was always going to be difficult introducing a new singer but we were pleasantly surprised with the reaction to our new guy. He was very, very happy too; as you can imagine he was more than a little nervous taking over the middle mic from Dan.
Anyway, just as we were having a really good time and things were coming together beautifully onstage, Linton contracted a throat virus and we had to end up pulling the second half of our tour. Like I said ‘it’s been a funny kinda year’ and we won’t be sorry to see it end. However, the prospects for next year are looking good and we’re hoping to have a hammering ‘healthy’ start with the UK dates in January.
I’d like to thank you all for the encouragement and good vibes you gave us throughout what was a very trying and important year. With all the ups and downs it was comforting to know you were behind us and we will never forget that. Everyone close to us who works personally with us and makes things happen in any number of different ways have been outstanding this year. We could never thank you enough.
It only remains for me now to wish you all, on behalf of Jimmy, Lee, Linton and myself, a very happy Christmas and peaceful New Year.
Pete
Above: cover for Nazareth’s latest album release: Rock ‘N’ Roll Telephone. Release date in USA: June 17th, 2014.
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Linton Osborne -Vocals
Pete Agnew – Bass
Jimmy Murrison – Guitar
Lee Agnew – Drums
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Stone.
On December 28th, 1968 – Led Zeppelin performed their first concert in Canada at the Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver, British Columbia, supporting Vanilla Fudge. Notice the above concert flyer doesn’t even have Led Zeppelin billed on it! Holy baloney! It’s amazing Metal history, to say the very least!
The Led Zeppelin lineup was of course: Robert Plant (vocals), Jimmy Page (guitars), John Paul Jones (bass) and the late John Bonham on drums. Rest in peace, John Bonham. The stellar lineup for Vanilla Fudge, on this date was: Mark Stein (vocals & organ/keys), Tim Bogert (bass & vocals), Vince Martell (guitar & vocals) and Carmine Appice (drums & vocals).
I’m not taking anything away from the legendary Vanilla Fudge; there have been many instances in Metal history where I can look back and chuckle at who opened for what band. Vanilla Fudge are an important and legendary band that also paved roads for Hard Rock and Heavy Metal. Heck, I remember seeing Metallica open for Ozzy Osbourne; it’s all part of the natural progression of any upstart band, regardless of the fame of any individual band members. The exposure that Led Zeppelin received by opening for Vanilla Fudge was more than likely immeasurable, back in the day.
You will have to zoom-in (below) to read this not too pleasant review of Led Zeppelin’s supporting performance, written by “Teen Talk” reporter Jim Allan. Hey, as I believe: any press is good press, if you’re a band. Jim Allan did dig the performance by Vanilla Fudge, however.
Below is a real-deal ticket stub from this iconic night of Hard Rock and Psychedelia:
You can read much more about Led Zeppelin opening for Vanilla Fudge by clicking the link below! Whoa!
http://www.ledzeppelin.com/show/december-28-1968
On December 28th, 1968 – The Doors released their single Touch Me. This hit went on to reach #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart, becoming the third Gold Single from The Doors. This sensational song is featured on The Doors fourth studio album, The Soft Parade, released in 1969, via Elektra. Rest in peace, Jim Morrison and Ray Manzarek.
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Stone.
On December 17th, 1973 – Aerosmith began recording their second studio album, Get Your Wings, at Record Plant Studios in New York City. Get Your Wings was released March of 1974.
On this day in 1978 – Angel and Styx performed at Riverfront Coliseum, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Whoa! Angel were touring in support of their fourth studio album, released in 1978: White Hot. Styx were touring in support of their eighth studio album: Pieces Of Eight.
On December 17th, 1981 – The Alvin Lee Band opened for the legendary Black Sabbath at Riverfront Coliseum, in Cincinnati, Ohio. With Ronnie James Dio as their lead vocalist, Black Sabbath were touring in support of their tenth studio album: Mob Rules. Rest in peace, Ronnie James Dio.
On this day in 1982 – The Who performed their first farewell concert in Toronto, Canada, at the Maple Leaf Gardens. The concert was filmed for a HBO special and recorded for future albums and videos. The Who were also touring is support of their tenth studio album, released in 1982: It’s Hard.
On December 17th, 1982 – The fantasy motion picture, The Dark Crystal, was released to wide-screen theaters, via Universal. This animatronic film was directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz; while produced by Gary Kurtz. Rest in peace, Jim Henson.
On this day in 1987 – Robert Plant performed Led Zeppelin songs live for the first time as a solo artist. The concert was in Folkstone, United Kingdom. Robert Plant performed Misty Mountain Hop and Trampled Underfoot.
On December 17th, 1949, Paul Rodgers was born in England. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Paul! Yeah! Paul Rodgers is a Platinum selling singer, songwriter and self-taught multi-instrumentalist. This legendary artist has sold over 90 million records, while he has written, recorded, produced and released 30 albums since 1968. Paul Rodgers has formed and led three legendary bands to worldwide success: Free, Bad Company and The Firm.
Along with his Grammy nominated solo career, Paul Rodgers has recorded and/or performed with Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, Brian May, Queen, David Gilmour, Buddy Guy, Joe Walsh, Slash, Nils Lofgren, Charlie Watts, Bryan Adams, Stax Recording artist Sam Moore, The Four Tops and many others.
Back in 1991, Paul Rodgers and legendary drummer Kenney Jones formed The Law; releasing their lone self-titled album the same year. I consider Paul Rodgers to be one of the greatest Rock and Hard Rock singers of all-time, his voice has forever been unique and magnificent; I’m certain that I’m not alone in this thinking. Long live Paul Rodgers!
On December 17th, 1977, Maria Brink was born in New York. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Maria! Alright and yeah! Maria Brink is famously known as the lead singer, songwriter and co-founder of In This Moment. As a major draw at numerous, yearly major Metal and Rock festivals, Maria Brink has consistently changed her stage attire and presence, while giving her constant growing fan base something to look forward to and experience in the live concert setting.
The ever musically evolving and beautiful Maria Brink and her dynamic band In This Moment have gradually moved to the forefront of the Heavy Music scene, after five critically acclaimed studio albums since 2007. From Metalcore to Gothic and Hard Rock in-between, In This Moment are a diverse band that never aims for the status-quo.
Maria’s talented band even embraces Electronic Rock and Industrial Metal on their most recent album releases, just for good Metal measure! From growls to crooning, Maria Brink’s vocal styles were born to amaze. Long live Maria Brink! Metal be thy name!
The new studio album, Black Widow, from In This Moment was released in November 2014, via Atlantic Records. Black Widow debuted at #8 on the Billboard 200 Albums Chart. Whoa!
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Source for Paul Rodgers history:
http://paulrodgers.com/all-news/
Stone.
Debut CD from Las Vegas’ Cyanide, to be released worldwide on January 27th 2015. Visit www.lvgodzofrock.com. Cyanide CD release party January 31st, 2015 at Vampd Vegas!
CYANIDE is a Hard Rock/Metal band from Las Vegas, Nevada. Currently playing covers and original songs off their debut album. Cyanide can play a 3 hour show of covers from bands such as Motley Crue, Kiss, Queensryche, Def Leppard, Van Halen, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Ratt, Warrant, L.A. Guns, Bulletboys and more.
CYANIDE can also perform a show consisting entirely of original music. They have opened for such prominent national acts as Skid Row, Stephen Pearcy, Femme Fatale, Black ‘N Blue, and Cheap Thrill.
Rob Hussey – Vocals
Marc Andrews – Guitar
David Karr – Bass
Ryan Gillan – Drums
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* For more info on CYANIDE:
Facebook: Cyanide
Stone.
On December 14th, 1974 – Styx re-released their song Lady, becoming their first top ten hit in the United States, peaking at #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart. Lady is originally featured on the second studio album from Styx, released in 1973: Styx II.
On this day in 1984 – Written and directed by David Lynch, the epic Science Fiction film Dune released to wide-screen theaters, via Universal. The cast included: Francesca Annis, Leonardo Cimino, Brad Dourif and José Ferrer. The executive producer was Dino De Laurentiis. Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner aka Sting also starred in Dune.
On December 14th, 1988 – Robert Plant performed live at the Riverfront Coliseum in Cincinnati, Ohio. Joan Jett & The Blackhearts were the opening band. Whoa! Robert Plant was touring in support of his fourth solo studio album, released in 1988: Now And Zen.
On this day in 2003 – Ozzy Osbourne reached the top of the UK Singles Chart for the first time, with a cover of Black Sabbath’s song Changes. This song was re-recorded as a duet with his daughter Kelly Osbourne.
Above: Bass Player Magazine – USA – May 1996
Born on December 14th, 1949 in England was Cliff Williams. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Cliff! Yeah, man! Cliff Williams is universally known as a current/long-time member, bassist and backing vocalist for the iconic AC/DC.
The first AC/DC studio album Cliff Williams performed on was 1978’s Powerage; the rest is incredible AC/DC history! AC/DC were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, back in 2003. Metal be thy name!
The brand new studio album from AC/DC, Rock Or Bust, was released on December 2nd, 2014. Yes, this new AC/DC album kicks Heavy Rockin’ ass. ‘Nuff said.
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Stone.
On December 2nd, 1976 – KISS performed a concert at the Mid-South Coliseum, in Memphis, Tennessee. KISS had released two studio albums, via Casablanca Records, back in 1976, with Destroyer and Rock And Roll Over, respectively. Whoa!
On this day in 1979 – The legendary Judas Priest performed a concert at Hemmerleinhalle in Neunkirchen am Brand, Germany. This was one of many, many dates on Judas Priests’ Killing Machine/Hell Bent For Leather Tour.
On December 2nd, 1979 – The Styx power ballad, Babe, was a big hit on FM radio. This song is featured on the ninth studio album from Styx, released in 1979: Cornerstone. Tommy Shaw plays lead guitar and Dennis DeYoung is the lead vocalist on Babe.
On this day in 1982 – Def Leppard filmed the music video for their smash hit, Photograph, in Battersea, London. This video was the video debut of guitarist Phil Collen. The song Photograph is featured on the third studio album from Def Leppard: Pyromania.
On December 2nd, 1982 – Van Halen performed a concert at the Mid-South Coliseum, in Memphis, Tennessee. Van Halen were touring in support of their fifth studio album: Diver Down.
On this day in 1989 – Great White hits #30 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with their hit: The Angel Song. This song is featured on the fourth studio album from Great White, released in 1989: …Twice Shy.
On December 2nd, 1991 – Van Halen performed a concert at the Pyramid Arena, in Memphis, Tennessee. Van Halen were on tour supporting their ninth studio album: For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge. This album (aka) F.U.C.K. was released in June of 1991.
On this day in 2003 – Alice Cooper was awarded a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. Metal be thy name!
On December 2nd, 1960, Rick Savage was born in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Rick! Whoa, yeah! Rick Savage is famously known as the bassist and co-founding member for the legendary Def Leppard. Rick Savage is also a multi-instrumentalist, backing vocalist and songwriter for Def Leppard. Long live Rick Savage and Def Leppard! Whoa.
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Stone.
On November 29th, 1975 – KISS hits #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart in the United States with their hit Rock And Roll Nite. This iconic song is featured on the third studio album from KISS, released in 1975: Dressed To Kill.
On this day in 1975 – Bohemian Rhapsody by the legendary Queen began a nine week run at #1 on the UK Singles Chart. This fabulous song is featured on the fourth studio album from Queen, released in 1975: A Night At The Opera.
On November 29th, 1982 – Metallica performed their first headlining concert in San Francisco. The opening act was Exodus, which featured future Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett. The following April of 1983, Kirk Hammett joined Metallica after the dismissal of Dave Mustaine, who later went on to form the ferocious Megadeth. Thrash Metal legends, all.
On this day in 1986 – Iron Maiden performed live at Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy, Paris, France. This was one of many gigs that Iron Maiden played on their Somewhere On Tour, in support of their sixth studio album: Somewhere In Time. Above photo: Tour program for Iron Maiden Somewhere On Tour 86/87.
On November 29th, 1986 – Bon Jovi hits #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with their hit You Give Love a Bad Name. This song is featured on the third studio album from Bon Jovi, released in 1986: Slippery When Wet. This #1 hit was written by Jon Bon Jovi, Desmond Child and Richie Sambora.
On this day in 2002 – The spectacular DORO performed live at Komma in Wörgl, Austria. Long live, Doro Pesch. Whoa.
On November 29th, 2012 – In celebration of their 30th Anniversary, TNT performed live in North Wales, UK, at the Hard Rock Hell Festival. Originating from Norway, TNT currently boasts the dynamite lineup of: Tony Harnell on vocals, Ronni Le Tekro on guitar, Victor Borge on bass and Diesel Dahl on drums.
On this day in 2012 – The fearsome VADER performed live at Klub Ucho in Gdynia, Poland. Death Metal legends = VADER.
On November 29th, 1951, Barry Goudreau was born. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Barry! Famously known as a former guitarist and founding member for Hard Rock legends Boston, Barry Goudreau was also a founding member and played guitar for Orion The Hunter (1984) and RTZ, with the late Brad Delp.
Barry Goudreau also recorded a self-titled studio album with (the late) Brad Delp: Delp And Goudreau. The two also recorded and released a hit single together, in 2007: Rockin’ Away. Pictured above is the cover for Barry Goudreau’s 1980 solo album. Former Boston vocalists (the late) Brad Delp and Fran Cosmo are both featured on this Bobby Goudreau solo album.
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Stone.
On November 27th, 1970 – Black Sabbath performed live at The Sunshine In in Asbury Park, New Jersey. Opening for Black Sabbath was the band Steel Mill, which featured New Jersey native Bruce Springsteen. Future E Street Band members, Vini Lopez, Danny Federici and Steve Van Zandt were also members of Steel Mill. Cactus was also another opening act on this same bill. Shown above is an original ticket stub for this (now) Rock historical concert.
On November 27th, 1982 – Ozzy Osbourne hits #21 in the UK with his double live album: Talk of the Devil. This memorable Ozzy Osbourne album was titled Talk of the Devil due to it being the more commonly expressed idiom there. In the USA and elsewhere, this release was titled: Speak Of The Devil. The band lineup for this album was: Ozzy Osbourne on vocals, Brad Gillis on guitar, Rudy Sarzo on bass and Tommy Aldridge on drums.
Pictured above is the back cover to the CD edition for Talk Of The Devil. As the track listing shows, there are 12 Black Sabbath songs covered by Ozzy and his band. Below is the complete track listing for Talk/Speak Of The Devil:
On November 27th, 1942, Jimi Hendrix was born in Seattle, Washington, USA. Positively one of the greatest guitarists that ever lived, Jimi Hendrix rose to enormous fame quickly, with his band: The Jimi Hendrix Experience.
Three highly influential studio albums were released by The Jimi Hendrix Experience: Are You Experienced (1967), Axis: Bold As Love (1967) and Electric Ladyland (1968). Dozens of Jimi Hendrix albums have been released since, ranging from live albums to remastered original works, demos and outtakes.
On August 18th, 1969, Jimi Hendrix played The Star Spangled Banner at the legendary Woodstock Music And Art Fair in White Lake, New York. This live performance from Jimi Hendrix eventually became an iconic moment, in the history of Rock Music. I personally consider Jimi Hendrix to be a pioneer of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal.
Jimi Hendrix enlisted in the United States Army on May 31st, 1961 and received an honorable discharge on June 29th, 1962. Jimi Hendrix passed away on September 18th, 1970, at the very young age of 27. The music Jimi Hendrix left behind, in such a short time, I find it nothing short of miraculous. Generations of Rock, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal fans are forever enjoying the music of Jimi Hendrix. Generations of guitarists have been positively influenced by Jimi Hendrix. An icon and true original was and forever will be Jimi Hendrix. May Jimi Hendrix rest in peace. – Stone
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Stone.
On November 23rd, 1981 – AC/DC released their eighth studio album, For Those About to Rock (We Salute You. This album went on to become AC/DC’s first time to reach #1 on the Billboard 200 Albums Chart. For Those About To Rock (We Salute You) went on to sell four million (plus) copies in the United States. Singles from this legendary album included the title track and Let’s Get It Up. Other notable classics on this album are: Inject The Venom, Put The Finger On You, C.O.D. and Evil Walks.
Above: back cover of album jacket, with track list and album credits.
This memorable and influential AC/DC album was recorded in Paris, France. Released via Atlantic Records, the total playing time on this album is: 40:10 and was produced by the legendary Robert John “Mutt” Lange. This marked the second studio album for AC/DC with the great Brian Johnson on lead vocals. It is hard for me to realize, that three decades have passed since the release of this album. It may sound cliché, still, it feels like it was yesterday when this album released. What is so amazing is after all these years, AC/DC will be releasing, within days, yet another new studio album: Rock Or Bust. Amazing.
Above: album jacket gatefold featuring live band photo.
I remember receiving For Those About To Rock (We Salute You) on vinyl, as a Christmas gift from my parents, back in 1981. Even back then, I always got the impression that everyone was into AC/DC; heck, it still feels that way in 2014 and rightfully so. Even though it’s been so many years passed, my favorite song on this album is Let’s Get It Up. During my first weeks of owning this album, I remember putting the needle down to just this song at least a couple of dozen times a day. Or so it seemed. I remember, as a young teen, locking myself away and enjoying this album, as if it was sweet sonic nectar from the Rock Gods. This album still psyches me out to this day, I shall gladly confess.
To this day, I consider For Those About To Rock (We Salute You) as the heaviest AC/DC album ever released. I’ll let the songs do the talking for me. Many may agree or disagree with me. Best Metal Buddy Scott Coverdale disagrees with me. He claims Flick Of The Switch from 1983 is AC/DC’s heaviest release. I respect his point too. I guess it all depends on how any album hits you, one person’s heavy does differ from another.
Above: back cover to the CD. Somehow, over the years, someone decided to change the order of the track list. Compare for yourself, with the back cover to the vinyl album jacket at (near) top of this post. It’s one of those go figure mysteries.
I unfortunately never did catch AC/DC on their tour supporting this terrific album. Being 15 years old without a driver’s license didn’t help. Plus my Metal buddies back then were either my age or younger. Forget asking the parents back then, the last thing they wanted to do was drop off a group of early teen boys at an AC/DC concert at night and in a major city; things were totally different back then, where I lived anyways. As I look back on it all now, my parents did the right thing.
I did eventually get to see AC/DC in concert; only on two occasions which I am still very grateful for. The two times I caught AC/DC in concert were: 1988’s Blow Up Your Video Tour (with Scott Coverdale) and the Razors Edge Tour back in 1990 (with my future wife). Both concerts were at the Hartford Civic Center, (now known as the XL Center), in Hartford, Connecticut. Therefore, I guess I am overdue to see AC/DC live again! Everyone seems to have an album or group of albums that just takes them down Metal memory lane; I have dozens of those albums and this AC/DC gem is righteously one of them. Metal be thy name. – Stone.
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* For more info on AC/DC:
Stone.
On November 21st, 1981 – Queen and David Bowie’s collaboration single, Under Pressure, tops the U.K. charts. Oddly, it only reaches #29 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart in the United States.
On this day in 1984 – The comedy/family film, A Christmas Story, was released to theaters on the wide-screen. This film is shown on television today, during the Christmas season, via every cable channel you can possibly think of! A Christmas Story starred: Melinda Dillon, Darren McGavin, Peter Billingsley and Ian Petrella. The central theme of this story is the little son Ralph “Ralphie” Parker wishes for only one thing for Christmas: an official Red Ryder, carbine-action, 200-shot range model BB rifle with a compass in the stock. The rest is truly comedy film history.
On November 21st, 1986 – The Science Fiction/Western Film, Space Rage was released to theaters on the wide-screen. Space Rage starred: Richard Farnsworth, Michael Pare, John Laughlin and Lee Purcell.
On this day in 1987 – Poison hits #13 on the Billboard Hot 100 with their power ballad: I Won’t Forget You. This song is featured on the 1987 debut Poison album: Look What The Cat Dragged In.
On November 21st, 1987 – Billy Idol reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart for the first and only time with Mony Mony, a cover of Tommy James and the Shondells’ classic.
On this day in 1991 – Aerosmith were the first Rock band to have a guest appearance on The Simpsons. Aerosmith performed their legendary hit, Walk This Way, at Moe’s Tavern. This was the tenth episode of the third season of The Simpsons.
On this day in KISSTORY – November 21st, 2006 – KISS released their 4 CD box set: KISS ALIVE! 1975 – 2000. Whoa, what a package!
On November 21st, 2006 – The mighty IRON MAIDEN performed a live concert in Oslo, Norway. This was one of many stops on IRON MAIDEN’s Nordic Tour ’06.
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On November 20th, 1947, Joe Walsh was born, in Wichita, Kansas. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Joe! Yeah! Famously known as the guitarist for the Eagles and James Gang, Joe Walsh has also achieved a very successful solo music career as well, releasing eleven studio albums along with two live albums. The Eagles, with Joe Walsh as a member, were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in the class of 1998.
Many of his timeless Rock classics include, among many: Rocky Mountain Way, Life’s Been Good, All Night Long, In My Car, Funk #49, Ordinary Average Guy and A Life Of Illusion. Joe Walsh is a multi-instrumentalist and has also played for Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band. Photo above: Analog Man from 2012.
On November 20th, 1975, Davey Havok was born in New York. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Davey! Whoa! Davey Havok is most famous for being the lead singer, songwriter and co-founding member of AFI. Davey also is the lead singer, lyricist and co-founder of Blaqk Audio and was the lead singer for the Horror Punk supergroup: Son Of Sam.
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On November 19th, 1983 – Quiet Riot hits #5 on the Billboard Hot 100, with their hit cover version of Cum On Feel the Noise. This song was originally released in 1973 by the legendary Slade and their version hit #1 in the United Kingdom. This song is featured on Quiet Riot’s third studio album from 1983: Metal Health. This multi-platinum selling album reached #1 on the Billboard 200 Albums Chart and is regarded as the first Heavy Metal album to reach #1 on the Billboard Chart.
On this day in 1988 – Cinderella hits #12 on the Billboard Hot 100, with their hit Don’t Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone). This song is featured on Cinderella’s second studio album from 1986: Long Cold Winter.
On November 19th, 1988 – Vixen hits #26 on the Billboard Hot 100, with their hit Edge of a Broken Heart. This song is featured on Vixen’s 1988 self-titled debut album. This cool song was written by Richard Marx and Fee Waybill.
On this day in 1988 – Bon Jovi hits #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with their hit Bad Medicine. This song is featured on Bon Jovi’s fourth studio album, 1988’s New Jersey.
On November 19th, 1994 – Nirvana entered the Billboard 200 Albums Chart at #1 with MTV Unplugged In New York. This album went on to sell five million copies in the United States, alone.
On this day in 1998 – Mötley Crüe opened their retail store S’crue in Los Angeles on Melrose Avenue. Vocalist Vince Neil helped open the front door during the grand-opening, making three huge cuts with a chainsaw. The store would eventually close two months later.
Born on November 19th, 1960, in California was Matt Sorum. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Matt! Man, whoa! Matt Sorum is a world-class drummer and famously known as drumming and/or recording for such prominent acts: Guns N’ Roses, Velvet Revolver, The Cult, Slash’s Snakepit and Johnny Crash among others.
Matt’s current projects are Kings Of Chaos and Fierce Joy. Kings Of Chaos are a touring all-star band of rotating musicians, playing cover songs and songs from their respective bands. Matt Sorum’s Fierce Joy – Stratosphere was released on March 11th, 2014, in the United States, to widespread critical acclaim.
Above photo top: Modern Drummer cover feature, (USA), February 2005 issue. Above photo bottom: Matt Sorum’s Fierce Joy – Stratosphere promo album flyer.
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On November 18th, 1949, Herman Rarebell was born. Happy Rockin’ Birthday, Herman! Whoa, yeah! Herman “Ze German” Rarebell is a world-class drummer and most famously known as the drummer for the legendary Scorpions. From 1977 to 1996, Herman recorded, toured, wrote and co-wrote songs for the Scorpions, helping the band to achieve dozens of Gold and Platinum records, along with wide-spread sold-out shows in both arenas and stadiums.
Herman Rarebell has remained active in the music scene, since his departure from the Scorpions. His newest album, Herman Rarebell & Friends – Herman’s Scorpions Songs, will be released in the U.S. on this coming December 16th. This new album from Herman features vocalists: Tony Martin, Don Dokken, Doogie White, Bobby Kimball and more! Herman has also written an autobiography: And Speaking Of Scorpions….
QUIET RIOT – Classic lineup (circa 1983) L to R: Rudy Sarzo, Frankie Banali, Kevin DuBrow and Carlos Cavazo.
On November 18th, 1950, Rudy Sarzo was born in Havana, Cuba. Happy Rockin’ Birthday, Rudy! Whoa! Rudy Sarzo is famously known as the former bassist for Ozzy Osbourne, Quiet Riot and Whitesnake. Rudy Sarzo has also played bass and/or recorded for the legendary DIO, WhiteSnake, Yngwie Malmsteen, Blue Öyster Cult, Geoff Tate’s Queensrÿche and Animetal USA. If you follow Rudy Sarzo on Twitter, you will be easily convinced he is a champion of animals and their well-being.
Above top photo: Rudy Sarzo cover feature for U.S. Rockstar Magazine (December 2013).
On November 18th, 1962, Kirk Hammett was born in California. Happy Metal Birthday, Kirk! Hell, yeah! Kirk Hammett is famously known as the lead guitarist for the super-legendary Metallica. Besides being a classic member of (probably) the greatest Metal band that ever existed, Kirk also was a founding member of the ravenous Exodus.
In short, Kirk Hammett is a pioneer and legend of Thrash Metal and helped give The Bay Area its real fame. Kirk is also a very successful entrepreneur, putting his name and creativity on items from guitar straps to horror collectables. Besides being recognized as one of music history’s greatest guitarists, Kirk Hammett along with his Metallica bandmates, were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame for the class of 2009.
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On November 17th, 1967 – The Who began their second tour of North America at the Shawnee Mission South, high school, in Overland Park, Kansas. The Who were on tour opening for The Buckinghams. Are you ready for this… the ticket admission was: $2 (U.S. funds). Whoa!
On this day in 1979 – The Electric Light Orchestra, aka, ELO reaches #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart, with Shine a Little Love. ELO’s Bev Bevan later went on to tour as drummer for Black Sabbath, on their Born Again ’83-’84 World Tour.
On November 17th, 1986 – The second studio album from Dark Angel was released: Darkness Descends. This marked the first Dark Angel album to feature Gene Hoglan on drums. This album was also the last to feature vocalist Don Doty.
On this day in 1990 – ZZ Top peaked at #6 on the Billboard 200 Albums Chart with their tenth studio album Recycler. This was their fifth top ten album in the United States. Recycler became certified Platinum in the United States by the RIAA.
On November 17th, 2014 – Slayer, with Exodus and Suicidal Tendencies perform at the Bricktown Event Center, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Metal be thy name!
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AC/DC – Rock Or Bust, the highly anticipated new studio album from Australia’s legendary band, will be released on December 3rd, 2014, via Columbia Records. It will be the band’s fifteenth internationally released studio album and the seventeenth to be released in Australia. This is the first studio album of new AC/DC magic, since the multi-platinum Black Ice, which was released back in 2008.
Rock Or Bust was recorded in the Spring of 2014, at Warehouse Studio in Vancouver, British Columbia and has AC/DC once again teaming up with producer Brendan O’Brien and mixer Mike Fraser. Founding member and guitarist Malcolm Young did not play on Rock Or Bust, due to his heartbreaking struggle with dementia. The nephew of brothers Angus and Malcolm Young, Stevie Young, played rhythm guitar on the new album.
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Pre-order “Rock Or Bust” digitally and get downloads of “Rock Or Bust” and “Play Ball” instantly: http://smarturl.it/RockOrBustMP3
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Brian Johnson – lead vocals
Angus Young – lead guitar
Stevie Young – rhythm guitar, backing vocals
Cliff Williams – bass guitar, backing vocals
Phil Rudd – drums, percussion
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* For more info on AC/DC:
Facebook: AC/DC
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