Archive for Hard Rock

On This Day In METAL History – April 23rd… The Iconic LED ZEPPELIN

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Music, rock music with tags , , , , , on April 23, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Led Zeppelin - ticket stub - The Omni - Atlanta - 04 - 23 - 77 - #10423JPMO

On April 23, 1977 – The impeccable Led Zeppelin performed at The Omni, in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The ticket price (shown above) was $10, in US funds. $10!! My Metal God Almighty, that is an unbelievable thing! Check out the concert setlist, below:

The Song Remains The Same, (The Rover intro) Sick Again, Nobody’s Fault But Mine, In My Time of Dying, Since I’ve Been Loving You, No Quarter, Ten Years Gone, Battle of Evermore, Going to California, Black Country Woman, Bron-Y-Aur Stomp, White Summer ~ Black Mountainside, Kashmir, (Out On the Tiles intro) Moby Dick, Jimmy Page solo, Achilles Last Stand, Stairway to Heaven, Rock and Roll, Trampled Underfoot.

* Source for above concert setlist: Led Zeppelin Official Website.

Led Zeppelin - Backstage Pass - Atlanta - 1977 - promo pic

Above: A backstage pass to this 1977 Led Zeppelin concert at The Omni.

Stone Says, About Led Zeppelin: Anytime I happen across Led Zeppelin history, I get those good chills. I believe that without Led Zeppelin, the Hard Rock and Heavy Metal sounds we hear today would not be the same. Legendary guitarist Jimmy Page with his melodic (and heavy) mastery and unique expression of scales and chords has certainly penetrated the building blocks of widespread Rock and Heavy Music. The guitar playing of Jimmy Page, to this day, is always like fresh rain water falling from the heavens, in my Metal opinion.

Vocalist Robert Plant and Jimmy Page equally gave each Led Zeppelin song its own identity, while bassist John Paul Jones and (the late) drummer John Bonham’s less is more styles of play can never be duplicated and only imitated. Metal be thy name. – Stone

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MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE THE LEGACY OF LED ZEPPELIN.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – April 16th… From Aerosmith To David Lee Roth

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, Music, rock music with tags , , , , on April 16, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Aerosmith - Rocks - promo studio album - 1976 - #AMO76011

On April 16th, 1976 – The mighty Aerosmith began their tour in support of their fourth studio album Rocks, at the Kiel Auditorium in St. Louis, Missouri. Long live Aerosmith!

David Lee Roth - Creem - Promo magazine cover pic - 1982 - #DLRMO69

Above: Creem – September 1982

On this day in 1993 – The charismatic and legendary David Lee Roth was arrested, along with 24 other people, in Washington Square Park in New York City. Diamond Dave allegedly bought a $5 bag of marijuana from an undercover police officer. Meanwhile, murders, rapes, assaults, kidnappings and home invasions continued throughout New York City.

Source: http://www.nytimes.com/1993/04/17/nyregion/david-lee-roth-is-arrested.html

KISS - Alive Worldwide - 96:97 - promo tour poster - #KMO33877

On April 16th, 1996 – The iconic KISS announced via a press conference, on the USS Intrepid in Manhattan, New York, that the band would embark on a massive reunion tour called: Alive/Worldwide. The original KISS lineup would once again tour together, for the first time since 1979. Whoa!

Metallica - Classic Band Logo - White on Black - #777493

Corrosion Of Conformity - Classic Logo!

On this day in 1997 – Metal legends Metallica and Corrosion Of Conformity performed at Riverfront Coliseum, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Whoa!!

All That Remains - The Order Of Things - promo album cover pic - 2015 - #71707ATRMO

On April 16th, 2015All That Remains have the #1 album on the iTunes Top 100 Heavy Metal Albums Chart with their seventh studio album: The Order Of Things. Excellent stuff!

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MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – April 15th… The Tax Day Edition!

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Metal, Music, rock music with tags , , , , on April 15, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Poison - Your Mama Dont Dance - promo single cover pic - 1988 - #14PMO1

On April 15th, 1989Poison reached #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with their cover song: Your Mama Don’t Dance. This song is featured on Poison’s second studio album from 1988: Open Up and Say… Ahh!.This song was originally written by Kenny Loggins and Jim Messina, while being featured on their self-titled album from 1972: Loggins And Messina.

Veil Of Maya - Matriarch - promo album cover pic - 2015

On April 15th, 2015Veil Of Maya’s forthcoming studio album, Matriarch, is ranked at #2 on the iTunes Top 100 Heavy Metal Albums Chart. This album will be released on May 12th, 2015.

Korn - Greatest Hits Volume 1 - #3300983KMO

On April 15th, 2015KORN’s Greatest Hits Vol. 1 is ranked at #6, on the iTunes Top 100 Heavy Metal Albums Chart. This 19 song KORN compilation was originally released back in Autumn of 2004.

The Animals - The House Of The Rising Sun - promo single cover sleeve - 1964 - TAMO

On April 15th, 2015The Animals cover version of House Of The Rising Sun is ranked at #18, on the iTunes Top 100 Rock Songs Chart. The Animals originally released their version of this song back in 1964. This iconic version from The Animals eventually reached #1 in the United States and several other countries. Whoa!

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MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE METAL.

PAYING TAXES SUCKS.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – April 10th… From IRON MAIDEN To SABATON

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Metal, Music, rock music with tags , , , , , on April 10, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Iron Maiden - The Number Of The Beast - promo cover pic - large

On April 10th, 1982 – The mighty IRON MAIDEN had their third studio album, The Number Of The Beast, reach #1 on the UK Album Chart. This was the first time IRON MAIDEN had a #1 record in the UK. This iconic album spent 2 weeks at #1 as well.

municipal waste - the fatal feast cover promo

On this day in 2012Municipal Waste released their fifth studio album: The Fatal Feast – Waste In Space. This Thrash Metal album kicks unbelievable Metal ass. Seriously, it does. Whoa.

Job For A Cowboy - Demonocracy - Large Promo Cover Pic #6

On April 10th, 2012 – Arizona’s Job For A Cowboy released their third studio album: Demonocracy, via Metal Blade Records. Long live Job For A Cowboy!

Sabaton - Heroes - Deluxe Edition - promo album cover pic - April 7 - 2015 - SMOH

On this day in 2015 – The powerful SABATON have their album Heroes (Deluxe Edition) ranked at #61, on the iTunes Top 100 Heavy Metal Albums Chart. Whoa! Gather all the villagers around and tell ’em all that Stone says: SABATON RULES! Hail SABATON! Long live SABATON!

Europe - War Of Kings - promo album cover pic - #2015EJTMO

On April 10th, 2015 – The tenth studio album, War Of Kings, from Sweden’s legendary EUROPE is ranked at #81, on the iTunes Top 100 Heavy Metal Albums Chart. Long live EUROPE!

Van Halen - Tokyo Dome In Concert - promo cover pic - 2015 - #VHMO04

On this day in 2015Van Halen’s new live 2-CD, Tokyo Dome In Concert, debuts on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart at #20. Why was such lame cover art chosen for this release? I just don’t know. You would expect that with the overpriced Van Halen concert tickets that are being sold, this legendary band could afford an artist with clever ideas for an album cover. Apparently not.

At least the EUROPE album cover (above) has imagery and cool photography to it that makes me pause to think.

__________________________

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

SKID ROW And Johnny Solinger Split – Tony Harnell Announced As New Lead Singer

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Music, rock music with tags , , , , , on April 6, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Skid Row - large logo - red & black

As reported on the SKID ROW Facebook timeline:

New York, NY – After 14 years of touring and 4 releases, SKID ROW has released singer Johnny Solinger.

Founding member Snake Sabo said, “We had a lot of great times together and created a lot of great music. We wish him nothing but the best.”

“Sometimes things just end. People go in different directions and grow apart and you have to make a decision. He will always be our brother” adds co-founder Rachel Bolan.

The vacancy for a new front man has been filled by powerhouse vocalist Tony Harnell. This news comes hot of the heels of his departure from Norway based band, TNT. “Tony’s experience, power and undeniable range made our decision an easy one” commented guitarist Scotti Hill. Drummer Rob Hammersmith added, “I believe this will be a great year for SKID ROW. I’m looking forward for things to come.”

When asked about joining forces with SKID ROW Harnell said, “I’m so excited and honored to be a part of such a great band with an amazing legacy and legions of faithful fans! The guys and I have known each other for many years and this is such a natural fit. I look forward to getting out there and playing live together and being a part of making new music and creating our future together. It’s time to rock!”

The band will head into the studio to record the third chapter of the United World Rebellion trilogy this summer. They will also hit the road for another world tour in support.

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MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE SKID ROW.

LONG LIVE JOHNNY SOLINGER.

Stone.

BAILEY “Long Way Down” – A Metal Odyssey Album Review

Posted in album reviews, classic rock, Hard Rock, rock music with tags , , , , on March 27, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Bailey - Long Way Down - promo album cover pic - 2015 - #4466BMO - 03

5 Out Of 5 METAL Fists!

Metalfistredbckgrndsmall5

Bailey Long Way Down was released back on December 9th, 2014, via Frontiers Music SRL. This is a solo project for Nigel Bailey, the frontman for Three Lions. As a songwriter and guitarist, Nigel Bailey soars on Long Way Down; his vocals are contagious and melodious, while being reminiscent of a Lou GrammJohn Parr and Joe Lynn Turner style. Maybe it’s unfair to compare Nigel Bailey to the three aforementioned vocalists; still he is an excellent vocalist in his own right. Frankly, every singer is unique, in my Metal opinion.

Musically, this album’s songs are so enjoyable for me to take in, time and again. Both Bailey’s vocals and the music makes me feel so damn inspired. Very, very melodic is the Hard Rock on Long Way Down. This is an album that should appeal to a vast array of Rock music fans, from Classic Rock to Hard Rock with AOR in-between. I could easily see Bailey open for Foreigner, Styx and the like; this is quality here, my Hard Rock brethren.

Nigel Bailey - publicity photo - 2014 - #007731MO

Bailey unearths the glory days of Classic Hard Rock with this album. A key word I use often when writing album reviews is memorable and Long Way Down has it from start to finish. This is such a splendid guitar-driven album too. Bailey’s vocals sound so perfect on top of the music, it’s nothing short of amazing. I am very impressed at how Bailey could take an 80’s Hard Rock sound and make it all sound so relevant.

My favorite songs on this album are Bad Reputation, Feed The Flames and Stay; they are such outstanding songs! Heck, there are so many favorite songs of mine on this Bailey album! Once again, melodic, memorable and top-tier quality songs, vocals and musicianship are the makeup of this solo Bailey album. I 100% recommend this Bailey album to any Rock or Hard Rock fan looking for a new album they can enjoy listening to countless times over for years to come. Metal be thy name. – Stone

Track List: Feed The Flames, In The Name Of The King, Dirty Little Secret, Bad Reputation, Stay, Somewhere In Oslo, Long Way Down, Spend The Night, Love Falls Down, Ticket To Yesterday, Dirty Angel

Bailey - classic logo - 2014 - #77733MOB

* For more info on BAILEY:

Facebook: Bailey

Website: http://www.baileyrocks.com/

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE BAILEY.

LONG LIVE MELODIC HARD ROCK.

Stone.

THE SHRINE “Waiting For The War” 12″ – A Metal Odyssey Album Review

Posted in Hard Rock, Metal, Music, rock music with tags , , , , on March 27, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

The Shrine - Waiting For The War - promo album cover pic - 2015 - #0327TSMO

4 Out Of 5 METAL Fists!

Metalfistredbckgrndsmall4

A 3 song 12″ that I have discovered to be damn good is Waiting For The War from The Shrine. This ultra cool slab of vinyl is available over at Tankcrimes:

http://tankcrimes.merchtable.com/distributed-music/vinyl/the-shrine-waiting-for-the-war-12-maxi-single#.VRViV0vLDwI

The title track for this EP is in general terms Punk, in the vein of an aggressive Ramones and not Sex Pistols. Maybe some will call this song Crossover Thrash or Skate Punk. Call it what you will, the title track ROCKS and that’s the main concern. The second track is Rare Breed and it’s Stoner Metal, with spirals of golden sonic psychedelia. Do not think The Sword, instead think early Uriah Heep meets Tony Iommi; or something like that. If you visit The Shrine’s Facebook page, they list their genre as: Psychedelic Violence Rock and Roll. ‘Nuff said.

The third track, Waiting For The War, is Metal. The fret work tells me so. This song is an instrumental and it jams, baaabbbyyy! Playing out at 4:22, I wish Waiting For The War had another 5 minutes added on to it. Really. Good stuff. I recommend The Shrine to any fan of kick to the arse underground Metal. Metal be thy name.

Track List: Waiting For The War, Rare Breed, Waiting For The War (Instrumental)

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* For more info on THE SHRINE:

The Shrine

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE THE SHRINE.

LONG LIVE HEAVY AS SHIT MUSIC.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – March 26th… From Oceano To Steven Tyler

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Metal, metal music, Music, rock music with tags , , , , on March 26, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Golden Earring - Twilight Zone - 45rpm - cover sleeve promo pic - 1983 - MO

On March 26th, 1983Golden Earring had their hit single, Twilight Zone, sitting at #10, on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart. This song is featured on Golden Earring’s 1982 studio album: Cut.

Def Leppard - 80's band publicity photo - band logo - #0326777DLMO

On this day in 1988 – The illustrious Def Leppard had their hit single, Hysteria, ranked at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart. This song is featured on Def Leppard’s fourth studio album from 1987: Hysteria. Sadly, Hysteria would be the last studio album to feature guitarist and songwriter Steve Clark. Rest in peace, Steve Clark.

Youth Gone Wild - Heavy Metal Hits of the 80s - promo cover pic - 1996 - #032696MO

On March 26th, 1996Youth Gone Wild: Heavy Metal Hits Of The ’80s, Volume 1 was released. This series of compilation albums featured enormous Heavy Metal hits of the 80’s golden era. Featured songs include: Street Of Dreams by Rainbow, The Last In Line by DIO, Ace Of Spades by Motörhead, Blind In Texas by W.A.S.P. and Balls To The Wall by Accept. There are 14 songs on Volume 1. No, Youth Gone Wild by Skid Row is not on this compilation. Go figure.

Oceano - Ascendants - promo album cover pic - 2015 - #010326MO

On this day in 2015 – The #1 Heavy Metal album on the iTunes Top Heavy Metal Albums Chart is Ascendants by Oceano. This album was released via Earache Records. Home base for Oceano is Chicago, Illinois.

Birthday balloons - nighttime - clip-art!!

Happy Birthday - promo banner - #2014BD

Steven Tyler - People Magazine - cover promo - #7767STMO26

STEVEN TYLER

On March 26th, 1948, Steven Tyler was born in New York. Happy Birthday, Steven Tyler! Whoa! Steven Tyler is known across the Universe as the lead singer and co-founding member of the super legendary Aerosmith. Back in 2001, Aerosmith was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. Long live Steven Tyler and Aerosmith! Metal be thy name.

Aerosmith - Classic Band Logo - B&W - #11077

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Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – March 25th… From Van Halen To Saxon

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Metal, Music, rock music with tags , , , , , on March 25, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Van Halen - You Really Got Me - Atomic Punk - 45rpm cover sleeve promo - #1978VHMOTK64

On March 25th, 1978 – The amazing Van Halen had their hit single, You Really Got Me, at #36 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart. This song is featured on the first studio album from Van Halen, commonly referred to as Van Halen I. Ray Davies of The Kinks originally wrote this song and it was released by The Kinks back in 1964. Whoa, man!

Saxon - classic band logo - #820325SMOBB

On this day in 1982 – The might SAXON performed at the Kiel Auditorium in St. Louis, Missouri, USA.

Vixen-Cryin-181214

On March 25th, 1989Vixen had their memorable hit single, Cryin’, standing at #22 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart. Cryin’ is featured on the 1988 debut and self-titled album from Vixen.

STEELHEART - logo - large!

Bulletboys - promo band photo - logo - #80SBBMO0325

Great White - large classic logo

On this day in 1991 – The great Steelheart, BulletBoys and Great White performed at the Towson Center Arena in Towson, Maryland, USA. Very cool!

Nickelback - No Fixed Address - promo album cover pic - #201417

On March 25th, 2015 – Yes, the latest studio album from Nickelback is still holding its own, on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart. Spending 17 consecutive weeks on this chart, No Fixed Address is at #143 for this week.

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Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

Wanna See My DON DOKKEN Autographed Trading Card? It’s Really Cool…

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Music, rock music with tags , , , , , on March 21, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Don Dokken - 2008 - Upper Deck Spectrum Of Stars - Autographed Trading Card - #0803DDMO

That’s it above! That’s my cool looking Don Dokken autographed trading card! This unbelievable piece of Rock ‘N’ Roll history was seeded into packs of Upper Deck Spectrum Of Stars trading cards, which were initially sold around 2008; that’s the date printed on the back of this card, anyways. There were many Rock and Metal celebrity musicians featured on these trading cards. Two other of these autographed trading cards that I own are Miljenko Matijevic (Steelheart vocalist) and (the late) Jani Lane from Warrant and Saints Of The Underground fame.

Below: the backside of this spectacular trading card:

Don Dokken - Autograph Trading Card - 2008 - Spectrum Of Stars - #0803DDMO - Back Side Of Card

I did not purchase a single pack of these Upper Deck trading cards, due to the high price point. I bought this gem as a single card, from a private seller, back when I was living in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Good times. I looked this Don Dokken autographed card up on ebay today, it was recently listed for $14.99. I don’t recall spending that much money on mine; I believe I paid under ten dollars. Metal be thy name! – Stone

If you’d like to read about and see my stunning Miljenko Matijevic autographed trading card, just click on the link below! Whoa!

Wanna See My Miljenko Matijevic (Steelheart) Autographed Trading Card?

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MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE DON DOKKEN.

LONG LIVE DOKKEN.

LONG LIVE HEAVY ROCK ‘N ROLL.

LONG LIVE COOL AUTOGRAPHS.

Stone.

STRIKEFORCE “Elegant Steel” – A Metal Odyssey Album Review

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Music, rock music with tags , , , , , on March 15, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Strikeforce - Elegant Steel - promo album cover pic - 2014 - #33SFHVMMO

4.5 metal-fists-4-5-album-reviews-metal-odyssey

4.5 METAL Fists Out Of 5!

STRIKEFORCE are a Classic Hard Rock band that formed back in 1982. Lead by founding member and guitarist Duke Jackson, Strikeforce also features Jim Burdette on drums, Daryn Unterbrink on vocals, and bassist James Murphy. The newest studio album from Strikeforce, Elegant Steel, was released back on December 9th, 2014, via HighVolMusic. Duke Jackson is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio and serves as a founding member, writer and producer of Strikeforce.

This five song album (EP if you will) is jam-packed with many hooks and high energy Hard Rock songs, all guitar driven and I’ve been reeled in! This is an album that is tailor-made for good-times, whether you’re partying or hitting the open highway; these are songs that have succeeded in making me feel that Classic Hard Rock goodness!

Strikeforce - promo band pic - #1003 - 2014

My favorite song on this album is Let Me Rock U, a song that can stand head-to-toes with many (historically untouchable) Mötley Crüe songs and I’m not talking junk here at all. Live Action is a freaking refreshing way to dropkick any dumbass mood I might be in. Yeah, Strikeforce is a tried and true Hard Rock force, from their songwriting to their musicianship, with Duke Jackson shredding away in many eye-popping moments!

Daryn Unterbrink’s vocals are memorable and melodious; this guy can sing! The rhythm section does a bang-up job and everything just comes together so ideally, on Elegant Steel. This album from Strikeforce essentially comes at me like a bonus for 2014; sometimes special Rockin’ surprises do come in small packages! Metal be thy name! – Stone

Elegant Steel – Track List: All About The Money, Falling Down, Live Action, Doomsday, Let Me Rock U

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* For more info on STRIKEFORCE:

Facebook: StrikeForce Rocks

HighVolMusic - banner logo - #1 - 2013

http://www.highvolmusic.com/

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE STRIKEFORCE.

LONG LIVE ASS KICKING ROCK ‘N’ ROLL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – March 3rd… Good Times!

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Metal, Music, rock music with tags , , , , on March 3, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Slade - Cum On Feel The Noize - promo 45rpm picture sleeve - 1973 - #73SMO0303

On March 3rd, 1973 – England’s legendary SLADE reaches #1 in the UK with their hit song: Cum On Feel The Noise. I remember never knowing that SLADE originally wrote and recorded this song, until I heard the Quiet Riot cover version on Metal Health, back in 1983. I remember some DJ on WHCN, WCCC or WPLR (FM) up in Connecticut, speaking about the history of this song, when it first released. Good times.

Foreigner - Blue Morning Blue Day - 45rpm cover sleeve promo - 1979 - #79FMO0303

On this day in 1979 – The great Foreigner is at #15 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with their hit song: Blue Morning, Blue Day. Written by Lou Gramm and Mick Jones, this song is featured on Foreigners amazing second studio album, from 1978: Double Vision. The Double Vision album is my favorite of all Foreigner albums! I remember receiving Double Vision as a birthday gift from my mother, back in January of 1979. God rest her loving soul.

Metallica - Master Of Puppets - 1986 - #860303MMOCB

On March 3rd, 1986 – The mighty METALLICA released their third studio album: Master Of Puppets. This happens to be my favorite METTALICA album of all-time! This is THE studio album, that without a doubt, launched METALLICA into the legendary stratosphere of Thrash Metal and ALL of Metal!

Master Of Puppets raised the Metal bar for ALL other Thrash Metal bands too. Unfortunately, this would be the last studio album that features classic member, co-songwriter and bassist Cliff Burton. Man I love this Master Of Puppets album! Battery!! Rest in peace, Cliff Burton.

Warrant - Sometimes She Cries - promo 45rpm  cover sleeve - 1990 - #90WMO0303

On this day in 1990Warrant reaches #20, on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with their hit song: Sometimes She Cries. This song is featured on Warrant’s debut studio album, from 1989: Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich. I remember buying the album on vinyl and I later bought it (used) on cassette; this way I was able to listen to it in my car. Good times. Rest in peace, Jani Lane.

Nickelback - The Best Of Volume 1 - promo album cover pic - #2014AL

On March 3rd, 2015Nickelback – The Best Of Nickelback: Volume 1 moves up five notches and is sitting at #15 on the Billboard Hard Rock Albums Chart. This greatest hits has spent 57 weeks on this chart, peaking at #2. Long live Nickelback!

Nickelback - No Fixed Address - promo album cover pic - #201417

On this day in 2015 – It’s Nickelback again, sitting at #2 on the Billboard Hard Rock Albums Chart, with their eighth studio album: No Fixed Address. This album moved up from being last week’s #4 and has spent 14 weeks on this chart. Whoa!

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Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

BAD GUYS – “Bad Guynaecology” – A Metal Odyssey Album Review

Posted in Hard Rock, Metal, Music, rock music with tags , , , , on February 21, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Bad Guys - Bad Guynaecology - promo album cover pic - #2014BGMO

4.5 Out Of 5 METAL Fists!

4.5 metal-fists-4-5-album-reviews-metal-odyssey

Bad Guynaecology from London’s Bad Guys will be released on March 16th of 2015, via Riot Season Records. That’s a picture of me, on the above album cover, from my early wrestling days. Just kidding. This album is a skull stomping listen and I equate Bad Guynaecology to a steak, beer and potato dinner with extra steak and extra beer. Yes, it’s very filling with its meaty riffs and foundation shifting rhythm section. The clean and robust vocals of Stuart London are in-your-face, just like this band’s music is. Bad Guys are a band to keep on your Metal radar. If you don’t have a Metal radar, then you’re shit-out-of-luck.

From their entertaining lyrics to their relentless and massive sound, no instrument is faded to the back and there’s no annoying excess of sonic fuzz going on either, on Bad Guynaecology. The widespread heaviness of sound from Bad Guys is so vital to underscore; it’s easy to call this album a herculean listen. With lyrics about stealing a toy car from a Toys “R” Us in the album opener, Crime, along with the second track, Prostitutes (Are Making Love In My Garden), there exists a grand sense of humor within the ranks of Bad Guys, indeed.

Bad Guys - promo band pic - #2015BGMO0221

Bad Guys can surely reach an impressive cross-section of Heavy Rock and Metal fans; there’s plenty of Stoner, early Black Sabbath and Danzig meets Clutch meets Orange Goblin meets C.O.C. influence to delight in, on this album. There are eight songs on Bad Guynaecology and the closing track, No Tomorrow, is the epic song on this album; it clocks in at a whopping 11:47 and is a headbanging, glorious, guitar-driven and roaring last course.

I might add that the fifth track, Reaper and the seventh track, Motorhome, radiate all the credentials of being Punk(ish) songs in the vein of early Motörhead’s style of Rock ‘N’ Roll. The sixth track, Fabled Succubus, is a freaking jam-packed Stoner feast. Putting all musical influences that I hear (and it could just be me hearing it for Metal sakes) aside, Bad Guys have a convincing aura of originality. Bad Guys are that band I always hope to find out about so I can brag about them and feel like a big shot. Bad Guys can take a bow and hopefully will know, someday, that they’ve made Stone very happy. Metal be thy name . – Stone

Track List: Crime, Prostitutes (Are Making Love In My Garden), Zoltan, World Murderer, Reaper, Fabled Succubus, Motorhome, No Tomorrow.

BAD GUYS – Official Links:

Bandcamp

Twitter

Youtube

Facebook

_____________________________

BAD GUYS:

Vocals – Stuart London

Guitar – PJ Mountford

Guitar – Dave Silver

Drums – Tamas Kiss

_____________________________

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE BAD GUYS.

LONG LIVE LONDON, ENGLAND.

LONG LIVE METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – February 21st… Whoa!

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Metal, Music, rock music with tags , , , , on February 21, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

ACDC - Back In Black - 45rpm - promo pic - #1981ACDCMO37

On February 21st, 1981AC/DC’s outstanding and timeless song, Back In Black, was sitting at #37 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart. This would be the peak position number for this AC/DC song as well.

Def Leppard "Pyromania" large promo album pic! #2

On this day in 1983 – The legendary Def Leppard performed at the Apollo Theatre in Manchester, England. The all-female Heavy Metal group, Rock Goddess, was the supporting band. This was one of many dates on Def Leppard’s Pyromania Tour. Def Leppard’s third studio album, Pyromania, was released in January of 1983, via Mercury Records in the USA.

Motorhead - promo group pic - #10

On February 21st, 2012 – The mighty Motörhead performed at the ShoWare Center in Kent, Washington, USA. This stop was one of many on Megadeth’s Gigantour.

Five Finger Death Punch - Wrong Side Of Heaven - Volume 1 - promo cover

On this day in 2015 – The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell, Volume 1 from Five Finger Death Punch perseveres on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart, now sitting at #152. This great album peaked at #2 and has spent 54 weeks on this chart.

Slipknot - 5 The Gray Chapter - promo cover pic - 2014PG

On February 21st, 2015.5: The Gray Chapter from the sensational Slipknot moves up on the Billboard Hard Rock Albums Chart, resting at #5.

Godsmack - 1000hp - promo album flyer - itunes - #2014GMOI

On this day in 2015 – The sixth studio album from Godsmack1000HPmoves up 8 positions to #10 on the Billboard Hard Rock Albums Chart. This cool album peaked at #1 and has spent 28 weeks on this chart. Whoa!

Happy Birthday - promo banner - #2014BD

Randy Blythe - Terrorizer - magazine cover - 2011 - #218RBMO

On February 21st, 1971, Randy Blythe was born in Virginia, USA. Happy Birthday, Randy Blythe! Hell and whoa! Randy Blythe is globally known as the lead singer and lyricist for the incredible Lamb Of God. Long live Randy Blythe!

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Gene Hoglan & Stone - 2012

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

THE HOOTERS – “35” Live 2015 Tour – Dates, Cities And Venues Listed

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Music, rock music with tags , , , , on February 21, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

The Hooters - 35 Years Live - promo tour flyer - #2015THMO33

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

The Hooters - 35 Live 2015 Tour - tour dates europe

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Source:

http://www.hootersmusic.com

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE THE HOOTERS.

LONG LIVE PHILADELPHIA.

Stone.

TNT “30th Anniversary 1982 – 2012 Live In Concert” – A Metal Odyssey Album Review

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, Music, rock music with tags , , , , on February 18, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

TNT - 30th Anniversary - 1982 - 2012 - Live album promo cover pic - #2014TH

5 METAL Fists Out Of 5!

Metalfistredbckgrndsmall5

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.

TNT - promo band pic - #2014TNTTHMO

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.

TNT - Live Concert Pic - Tony Harnell - #2014THTNTMO

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.

TNT - 30 year anniversary - promo logo - 1982 - 2012

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 ReligionEddieIntuition, Magica Lanterna, the swingin’ June and the insane grand guitar solo by the great Ronni Le TekrøNorthern 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

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE TNT.

LONG LIVE HEAVY METAL.

Stone.

FAITHSEDGE – Enter Studio With Crushing New Lineup (Mr.Big/Ace Frehley Drummer And Stryper bassist)

Posted in Hard Rock, Metal, Music, rock music with tags , , , on January 29, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Faithsedge - publicity pic - #2015FMO - NAMM

Above is a photo of, from L to R: drummer Matt Starr, singer Giancarlo Floridia and lead guitarist Alex De Rosso at Namm 2015!

The third Faithsedge installment starts recording this month with founding members powerhouse vocalist / songwriter Giancarlo Floridia and former Dokken lead guitarist Alex De Rosso.

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.

Check out www.faithsedgemusic.com for more info.
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MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE FAITHSEDGE.

LONG LIVE METAL.

Stone.

PAT TRAVERS BAND “Live At The Iridium NYC” – An Immediate Live Rockin’ Classic!

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

PAT TRAVERS BAND - LIVE at the Iridium - promo cover pic - #2015PT

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!

PAT TRAVERS BAND - LIVE at the Iridium - promo cover pic - #2015PT

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 - LIVE at the Iridium - promo cover pic - #2015PT

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/

Frontiers Music SRL - logo - #2014FM

Website: http://www.frontiers.it/

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE PAT TRAVERS BAND.

LONG LIVE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – January 9th… And METAL Birthday Salutes To Jimmy Page And Phil Lewis!

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Metal, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , on January 9, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

KISS - Creatures Of The Night - promo album cover pic - #1982GSEC

On January 9th, 1983KISS 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.

Van Halen - 1984 - promo cover pic!

On January 9th, 1984Van 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!

Iron Maiden - Somewhere In Time - promo album cover pic - #1985 SHBD

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.

Happy Birthday - promo banner - #2014BD

Jimmy Page - January 2008 - Guitar World - promo cover pic - #33JP

JIMMY PAGE

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!

Happy Birthday - promo banner - #2014BD

LA Guns - CD cover promo pic - #2011PL

Above: Phil Lewis, shown in center, circa late 80’s photo.

PHIL LEWIS

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!

Girl - Wasted Youth - promo cover pic - Phil Lewis - #1982PL

Above: Girl Wasted Youth album cover, from 1982.

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MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

NAZARETH – Band Update For 2015

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Metal, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , on January 4, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Nazareth - promo band banner pic - #2014PA

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

Nazareth - Rock 'N' Roll Telephone - promo album cover pic - #2014PA

Above: cover for Nazareth’s latest album release: Rock ‘N’ Roll Telephone. Release date in USA: June 17th, 2014.

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NAZARETH:

Linton Osborne -Vocals
Pete Agnew – Bass
Jimmy Murrison – Guitar
Lee Agnew – Drums

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MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE NAZARETH.

Stone.