Albums of the Year Part One

2009 has been another great year for albums and comebacks. There will be albums released this year I haven’t heard yet (eg Foreigner) which could have made my list. Where to start?

Melodic rock wise Places Of Power (Frontiers) was a stunning start to the year – an album to keep Foreigner fans happy that’s for sure. Lovers of Def Leppard look no further than Grand Design (Metal Heaven) who set out to create an album paying homage to the Mutt Lange era Def Leppard and they did in in style.

House Of Lords ‘Cartesian Dreams’ (Frontiers) is their best album since they reformed and harks back to ‘Demon’s Down’, hardly surprising as the co-writer on that album features on this new one.

For pure AOR try 101 South’s ‘No U Turns’ (AOR Heaven), this shows how AOR should be done. Bad Habbit (AOR Heaven) also produced a highly polished and enjoyable set of AOR/melodic rock tunes with some stunning ballads.

Covered Call came from nowhere to produce an album that is not only melodic hard rock but managed to add a couple of  moments of classy pop rock. Speaking of pop rock the masters returned with their best album since the 80’s, yes Cheap Trick ‘The Latest’ (Indie) is a delight with never a dull moment. This leads nicely into one of Cheap Trick’s biggest fans, Ginger and his band the Wildhearts released a real return to form with ‘Chutzpah!’ This has the band really firing on all six with catchy choruses, massive riffs and err some thrash metal.

Of the debut albums the Jokers really hit a chord with me and if you like 70’s Aerosmith and the Stones, in fact classic 70’s rock, this band will appeal to you. Draven also made a splash with another album steeped in classic rock influnences although they do have some more modern rock songs in their armoury. In a more melodic vein, Firenote give bands like Brother Firetribe and the Poodles a run for their money. A very accomplished debut ad looking forward to the next one already.

I do like a varied listening base and thanks to Bill Leslie over at the excellent Rock Of Ages I discovered Neil Hannon of the Divine Comedy’s latest work, the Duckworth Lewis Method. It is all based around cricket and is simply wonderful – ‘Jiggery Pokery’ and ‘Test Match Special’ should be on everyone’s IPod/MP3 player.

One band whose last couple of releases I have not been that taken with are Dream Theater but their new album ‘Black Clouds And Silver Linings’ (Roadrunner) is one of their best. The musicianship is top notch as you’d expect but now the band have found their melody again rather than drift off into endless solos.  Staying prog the Sine Star Project sounds like Muse but they add their own melodic and weird spin on the music. IQ’s ‘Frequency’ (GEP) is another band back on peak form and if you have never tried an album by this band this is a recommended starting point. Lots of big production and lush musical arrangements, sheer bliss. Roswell Six ropes in a whole host of musical stars including John Payne (Ex-Asia), Erik Norlander and James LaBrie (Dream Theater) amongst others. Based on a bestselling fantasy novel series and it is great fun to listen to!

101 South ‘No U-Turn’

This little beauty is out via AOR Heaven on 20th November but I have a review copy and can happily confirm it is the best yet by this top notch AOR band. Featuring Harlan Cage’s Roger Scott Criag and vocalist Gregory Lynn Hall, this album has it all – passionate vocals, layers of keys, stunning guitar solos and catchy melodies. Full review soon but for lovers of classy AOR get this one next month…

The Duckworth Lewis Method review

Named after a method of scoring in cricket the Duckworth Lewis method is in fact Divine Comedy’s Neil Hannon and Thomas Walsh of Pugwash. This collaboration is a concept album based on cricket (sadly though the band announced in September they were finishing) and put simply it is rather wonderful. If you like the Divine Comedy, a touch of Noel Coward, Jellyfish, some Jeff Lynne/ELO inspired production and a catchy pop tune then this album is made for your collection.

The stand out song has to be ‘Jiggery Pokery’ which features the use of the English language to its full. It is a song dedicated to a then unknown Aussie bowler, one Shane Warne and the lyrics are simply superb. If that wasn’t enough miday through Neil Hannon and his piano are joined by the full band along with a crowd chorus that features amongst others comedian Phil Jupitus. ‘Test Match Special’ is another instant hit of summery pop and the lyrics skillfully capture everything that is indeed great about listening to cricket on the radio.

You don’t need to be a cricket fan to appreciate the music, as the almost musical hall ‘Meeting Mr Miandad’ is simply a damn fine at the end of the day. ‘The Nightwatchman’ tips a nod to ELO/Jeff Lynne mainly on the rich production. ‘The Age Of Revolution’ starts with a 1920’s sounding brass arrangement before adding a more modern funky undertone. ‘Gentleman And Players’ is perfect piece of whimsy, the most Divine Comedy sounding moment on the album plus you get a potted history of cricket in the lyrics.

A truly splendid album and one that like Divine Comedy albums I am sure I will keep coming back to play again and again.

****1/2

Mastedon are back!

Having heard this I am happy to say it is just like the first two albums – lots of guitar, harmony filled choruses and a big production sound. This will definately m ake my year end top 20…

Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the European release of the brand new MASTEDON album “3” on November 6th 2009. Mastedon is the Hard Rock band put together by ex KANSAS singer John Elefante, together with his brother Dino in the late 80’s. The band’s name was a pachyderm-inspired reference to the brothers’ last name. Although John was an accomplished vocalist and performer, the first two Mastedon albums featured multiple lead singers and performances by other artists, creating an eclectic sound anchored by John’s songwriting. His brother Dino played a prominent role, contributing songwriting and handling most of the guitar work. Some of the collaborators in the band’s first two albums were Dave Amato (REO Speedwagon), Stef Burns (Y&T), bassists John Pierce (Richard Marx) and John Patitucci plus guest vocalists David Pack (Ambrosia), David Robbins (X-Sinner), Tom Bowes (Tower of Power), James Dean Longacre (Life9) and Perry Lee (Tracer Fox).

In 1996 John Elefante started a solo career that brought him to release three successful albums more in the Adult Contemporary – Pop Rock vein. After a few years of hiatus, John decided to go back to his roots sound with a brand new Mastedon album that – contrary to the predecessors – would only feature his amazing lead vocals. Musically, the new album, simply entitled “3” harkens back to the best of Mastedon and to his work with Kansas. None other than main Kansas songwriter Kerry Livgren appears on lead guitar on this new release, collaborating on a 11 minute piece of music that any Kansas fan will surely love! More famed musicians and such as Dave Amato (REO Speedwagon), Anthony Sallee (Whiteheart), Dan Needham (Michael McDonald, Neville Brothers, Amy Grant, Garth Brooks etc) and of course John’s brother Dino Elefante contribute to the performance of this superb new release.

GMT tour dates and a REO Christmas album…

GMT alias Bernie Torme, Robin Guy and John McCoy play a few dates in Nov & Dec. Great band and I heartily recommend their two albums to any fan of hard rock with a punk edge.
November
6th London Holloway Gaff
7th Birmingham NEC Music Live
14th Grimsby Yardbirds
28th Ballymena Diamond Rock Club
December
3rd Prestatyn Hard Rock Hell III VIP Party

REO Speedwagon release a Christmas album on 27th Oct entitled ‘Not So Silent Night’. Rob Halford of Judas Priest fame releases a seasonal album as well under his Halford banner. Blimey, first it was cover albums being all the rage now its Christmas albums! I will doubtless get both although I fear the REO one could drown in a sea of ballads…hopefully I am wrong though.

But the band for seasonal rock has to be the Trans-Siberian Orchestra who finally release their third studio album ‘Night Castle’ on Oct 27th. This band are massive in the US, so much so they have two verisons of the band touring the west and east coasts at the same time. I really would love them to come and play a few European shows.

Keyboard player to the stars, Eric Ragno, will be joining White Sister for their appearance at this year’s Firefest in Nottingham. White Sister’s ‘Fashion By Passion’ is a ‘must have’ for lovers of 80’s pomp/melodic rock.

Cack band name but great line-up W.E.T. release their debut album via Frontiers on 6th Nov. It features singer/songwriter Jeff Scott Soto (Talisman); guitarist/songwriter Erik Martensson (Eclipse) and keyboardist Robert Sall (Work Of Art) . And of this man likes it…

“W.E.T. might just be the perfect balance of power and melody, emotion and attitude. A dream line-up that really delivers their very best. This is a stunner!” – Andrew McNeice (melodicrock.com)

…then I am pretty sure I will

New albums worth a listen…

Been awhile since I did one of these round-ups and there are some cracking new albums out there…

First up Cheap Trick whose latest album, ‘The Latest’ is a real return to their pop rock genius. Their last album ‘Rockford’ was good after a few lacklustre releases but this new one is even better.

Willie Nile may not be a household name but his new album is one for lovers of singer/songwriters who pen a decent tune and lyric. The Wildhearts are definately back on form with ‘Chutzpah!’ which sees Ginger & co. veer from pop rock bliss through to almost thrash/extreme metal in some parts.

Uriah Heep have re-recorded some Byron era classics along with two new songs to mark the band’s 40th anniversary. They have re-recorded their 70’s output before for a now defunct label as the band didn’t own their songs and hence the only way to get any royalties was to re-record their classics. This new set is good, very much led by the Hammond organ playing of Phil Lanzon and vocalist Bernie Shaw, the longest serving vocalist in the band.

Looking forward to hearing the new ones from Lynyrd Skynyrd, Foreigner and Europe. I might even be tempted to grab the new Kiss album ‘Sonic Boom’ after all the rave reviews it has been getting and that’s saying something as the last Kiss album I liked was ‘Music From The Elder’

Mastedon are back

Oh how cool is this news…Mastedon released two great albums featuring Dave Amato (REO SPEEDAWGON), Dave Pack and many more. They are classic albums and overdue a full re-issue…can’t wait for this new album.

Frontiers Records announces proudly the signing of Mastedon featuring former Kansas singer John Elefante for the release of the long awaited third studio album.

John Elefante’s name came to prominence in 1981 when he became the new lead singer and keyboardist for Kansas. John sang the lead vocals and performed keyboards on three multi – Platinum albums with band, giving also a major songwriting contribution. In 1984, together with his brother Dino, he started to become involved for the first time in producing the Christian act Sweet Comfort Band. Soon the couple became one of the most renowned producers in the genre, in particular their tenure with Petra brought multiple gold and platinum albums, 10 consecutive CCM Magazine Reader’s Choice Awards, induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and Hard Rock Cafe, and the only artist to ever have 4 albums in the SoundScan top-100 Christian chart.
Elefante also felt the songwriting muse and formed a metal band with his brother, Mastedon. The band’s name was a pachyderm-inspired reference to the brothers’ last name. Although John was an accomplished vocalist and performer, the Mastedon albums featured multiple lead singers and performances by other artists, creating an eclectic sound anchored by John’s songwriting. His brother Dino played a prominent role, contributing songwriting and handling most of the guitar work. Mastedon’s first release was titled “It’s a Jungle Out There!” (1989). A year later, the band released “Lofcaudio”. This album continued the guest performance theme, though John sang more of the lead vocals. Unfortunately, John and Dino’s production schedule preempted any touring to commercially support the album. Even so, the albums charted at #25 and #10, respectively in the Billboard Top Contemporary Christian chart. To this day, they are still considered classics in the genre.
John and Dino then formed their own record label, Pakaderm. Given their intense recording schedules, John and Dino decided to build their own recording studio in Nashville, the Sound Kitchen which soon became one of the largest complex studios in the USA, with artists such as Elton John and Bruce Springsteen that used it for their recording. In 1996 John started a solo career that brought him to release three successful albums more in the Adult Contemporary – Pop Rock vein.
After a few years of hiatus, John is now working on a new Mastedon album that – contrary to the predecessors – will only feature his amazing lead vocals. Musically, the new album will hearken back to the best of Mastedon and to his work with Kansas.

“Mastedon has far surpassed my expectations as far as longevity and shelve life” says John. “I would say it has garnered somewhat of a cult following. I have people from 17 years old to 50 something that still ask me about Mastedon and will there ever be another one? My answer has always been “I don’t know” But the writing is on the wall that after all this time, it is time to deliver a new Mastedon record and mainly because people that loved the first 2 can’t be ignored any longer. This record will differ in some ways and others it won’t. Being the majority songwriter there will be obvious similarities in style. I will be singing everything so that will change a bit from prior Mastedon projects. Also the sonic quality will be very much up to date. Rich melodic harmonies and melodies are the keys to a Mastedon record. This record will most certainly be the beginning of a new chapter in my life both musically and lyrically. One day you turn around and it’s been 10 years since you’ve done a project, but when it really sinks in that you were put on this earth to something, YOU MUST DO IT !!!”

Frontiers salutes the return of a legendary artist and looks set to release Mastedon III in the fall of 2009.

Five Quick Q’s with…

LEC ZORN released an album chock full of melodic rock and AOR treats back in 2007. Here Lec gets us right up to date with what he’s been up to…

1. What are you currently up to? (e.g. recording, gigs etc.)

I’m currently working on a studio album with a new band, which evolved from the live band I formed for Z Rock 2009. I began working on new a few new songs with some of those musicians and the original plan was for those songs to go on my second album with The Lec Zorn Project. But I realized that collectively, we had created a very cool and unique sound and that we should make a whole album together. We don’t have a name yet, but we probably will very soon. The album contains original material written by me and three others – Gareth Noon on keyboards and Chris Gould on guitar, both from the UK band Serpentine, and Mai-Helen from Norway on vocals. In addition, the album will feature many other great melodic rockers from around the world. They sound of the album is similar to my first album but more keyboard oriented and a sound more from the late ‘80s and early ‘90s than the early-to-mid-‘80s. The album is tentatively scheduled for release in November and I think that people who love my first album will love this one even more.

In addition, I’m preparing to perform a concert with The Lec Zorn Project on June 11 in my hometown, Madison, Indiana, for its 200th birthday. It will be my hometown debut.

2. How have the sales and reviews been going on the Lec Zorn Project CD? Have you seen interest continue as many releases appear in a blitz of publicity only to disappear from view a few months down the line?

Much to my pleasant surprise, every single review I’ve read of my first album – about 25 – has been positive. Sales have slowed down in recent months, but I think they’ll pick up again.

3. You were down for this year’s Z Rocks festival but had to cancel your appearance. What sort of set had you planned for the show and why did you decide to cancel?

The set was to be 55 minutes and comprised of:

The Rush of Passion’s Fire

Going the Distance

At the Speed of Light (new)

Heaven Or Heartbreak (new)

Starting All Over Again

Fighting Chance

We Belong (Serpentine)

You Keep Me in the Dark

Paradise Restored (new)

Cherokee

Play the Game Tonight

Second Chance

Give it All (new)

I withdrew from the festival because I never received a contract, despite having been promised one and having inquired about it several times from November-April. Being invited to perform at that festival, sharing the stage with so many artists, was a tremendous honor. But I wasn’t willing to travel thousands of km to perform a festival without the security of a contract. After the disastrous Rock-It Fest two years ago, I’m determined to never get screwed again in this business. I felt very sad about my withdrawal. I was very much looking forward to the festival, to meeting many of my friends and fans in the UK, which is one of my best selling countries, and to visiting the UK for the first time. I hope to perform there in the near future, preferably during football season, so I can attend my first match!

4. Do you think the age of record labels is nearing an end and that the future will be artists releasing their own albums/music via websites, ITunes, Amazon etc.

We’re already seeing that and I think the trend will continue. Most artists, provided they are good at self-promotion, will probably make far more money as indies rather than with a record company, and they’ll have total artistic control. To me, it’s the only option that makes sense in about 99.5% of all cases. Being an indie does mean that you have almost no chance to achieve mainstream radio airplay, but if you promote your music well enough to internet/satellite stations in your genre, get a lot of good publicly on web pages dedicated to your genre, and build a good live following, you can still sell very well. The internet is the best thing to ever happen to indies. It’s an awesome tool that enables us to reach out target audience very easily and at almost no cost.

5. Any recent music/books/films you would recommend?

I recently discovered a great melodic rock band from Spain called Hardreams, who sounds even more like Survivor than I do, which I didn’t realize was possible! I’ve listened to very little new music in recent months, simply because my time has been so filled with other things, but I hope to catch up on that very soon! I do very little reading, sadly, but I recently discovered a gem of a movie titled “Falling from Grace.” It’s from 1992 and stars my fellow Hoosier (Indianan) John Mellencamp, whose music I’ve never been a big fan of, but the movie is phenomenal. It was filmed in my native southern Indiana and is a flawless presentation of life there. I tell my friends around the world to watch that movie if they want to learn about my home area. And all bias aside, I strongly recommend my brother’s new mystery/drama “Trail of Crumbs” – http://www.trailofcrumbs.com – which is on the American film festival circuit. And I’m currently working on a drama titled “Soldier’s Song” about a paralyzed Vietnam veteran, which I hope will be on the film festival circuit within a few months. And though I discovered it four years ago, I still like to plug “Nói albinói” from Iceland, from Dagur Kári, my all time favorite foreign movie. It’s fascinating both as a character study and a portrayal of life in one of the most isolated towns in the world. Keep in mind, though, that I’m a nordophile!

Message for your fans…

Thanks so much for your continued interest and support. I will always appreciate it tremendously and never take it for granted. I hope you’ll continue to enjoy my past and future music and I hope to see you at a concert soon, somewhere in the world!

 

ERIC RAGNO is the keyboard player to the stars having appeared on many albums plus he has been working on his own bands CHINA BLUE (check this album out, released last eyar with TNT’s Tony Mills on vocals) and VOX TEMPUS…

1. What are you currently up to? (e.g. recording, gigs etc.)

Man it has been SO busy this month!  I did a song for the new Liberty n Justice CD featuring Stephen Chesney & Shawn Pelata of Waking Jonah, a track called For Better or Worse.  It went so well that I was invited to work on the band’s debut album, and we did a few more songs this month.  I also finished another track for Savage Paradise, featuring Graham Bonnet (vocals), Mario Parga (guitars), Tim Luce (bass) & Kevin Valentine (drums). I wrote six new songs for a new project called Skeleton Key featuring Lee Smalls (vocals) and Andreas Edman (drums), and others to be announced.  And I did a showcase in Hollywood last month with Steven Cooke & his all star band.  Steven just recorded a new song for an Audi ad campaign.  All in all, a busy month!

2. China Blue have been deservedly getting some rave reviews. Are you planning to tour at all and will there be a follow-up album?

We were committed to do Z Rock in 2010, but there has been a lot of controversy surrounding that organization lately, so we’ll have to see how that plays out.  All the guys in this band stay busy with their main gigs, but we all really want to play these songs out.  I’m hoping we can explore more festival opportunities in the coming months.  As for a follow-up record, Frontiers has said they would like to discuss is once the summer is over. The band gets on well together and obviously we have a lot more to say!

3. Is there any news on when the Vox Tempus album will be finally released through Angel Milk Records? Did the Z Records version ever get an official release and distribution?

The Z Records version never got released, and there have been some shakeups over at Angelmilk that have delayed their version as well!  It’s a shame – we released the Vox Tempus as a small indie release back in 2004 to RAVE reviews, but most of the world still haven’t heard it!  I’d love to get this thing a proper release overseas, if we could find a way to make it work.

4. Do you think the age of record labels is nearing an end and that the future will be artists releasing their own albums/music via websites, ITunes, Amazon etc.

The role of the label has been greatly reduced over the years, no doubt.  With China Blue, we had the option to release it ourselves, as we did with Vox Tempus before it.  But the outcome is considerably different.  With Vox we didn’t have a budget or the proper connections to get that record out properly to the masses.  We had a tiny advertising budget and relied on online retailers to help with distribution.  In contrast, China Blue relied heavily on Frontiers to get the word out, to see that the CD was distributed to the proper channels (as well as a Japanese release) and to set up interviews and place ads on all the rock radio and print magazines out there in the world.  And of course they helped us recoup most of our costs right away. So you can definintely do it yourself, no doubt – but it takes a lot of work, time and money and frankly I’d rather spend that time making music. 

5. Any recent music/books/films you would recommend?

Definitely check out the new Fireworks magazine, which features a two page interview with me regarding China Blue and my ongoing endeavours!  Outside of that, the new Star Trek movie is pretty awesome. 

Message for your fans…

Be sure to stop by my website at www.keyboardplayer.net for all the latest info, or better yet become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Keyboardist-Eric-Ragno/22071037460 to keep up with the latest breaking news!

Some new albums worth a listen…

Blistering Records have released a couple of gems…the new Lion’s Share album ‘Dark Hours’ is one for lovers of bands like Dio and well played power metal. Vocalist Patrick Johansson has an impressive vocal range! Covered Call are a superb melodic rock band also on Blistering Records. A nice mix of genres from pop rock to modern rock  with a couple of very tasty ballads thrown into the mix as well.

Aynsley Lister’s new album ‘Equilibrium’ highlights not only his top notch blues rock guitar playing but has some real bona fide radio friendly hits. Very impressive release. 

TXS ‘Transmission X’ on Escape Music are a new band although they have been around before as Hush releasing a couple of albums in the 90’s. If you like Stage Dolls, Von Groove etc well worth checking out.

Shadow’s Mignon ‘Midnight Masquerade’ on ProgRock Records is not a prog rock record but actually a damn fine set of metal songs not disimilar at times to the mighty Manowar. Forget HammerFall this band slay them musically with ease!

The Trews return with a new album, ‘No Time For Later’. Again a strong set of tunes from a band who deserve wider recognition over here in the UK.

Frontiers have a few good albums out including the new Great White, which is quite mellow overall and the new Hardline is finallt out in April. This keeps the band’s hard rock base but does have a few ventures into prog here and there to good effect. However, caution is needed for the new Balance album as sadly vocalist Peppi Castro has lost his power and this isn’t a very good album. The new Wetton/Downes Icon ‘III’ is also their weakest to date but if you have the other two albums this will still hit the spot.

Finally, it was due to be released in 1992 but grunge put paid to that, it is the long delayed second album by Alias (formed by ex-Sheriff and Heart members) ‘Never Say Never’ Angel Milk Records. Classic 80’s sounding AOR meets melodic hard rock and certainly worth waiting for.

Some early 2009 releases worthy of a listen…

To start of 2009 nicely there are some top new albums released this month…

SAXON ‘Into The Labyrinth’ SPV a band who I have rediscovered again and this new album has some classic metal anthems mixed with the band’s love of historical based tunes including this time ones on Sweeney Todd and ancient Egypt.

UFO ‘No Place To Run’/'The Wild, The Willing And The Innocent’/'Mechanix’ (Re-issues with bonus tracks) EMI great to see these out again and ‘Mechanix’ in particular is one of my fave UFO albums. With songs like ‘The Writer’ and ‘Let It Rain’ the band were back to their best.

PLACES OF POWER ‘Now Is The Hour’ Frontiers the album Foreigner never made! Cracking melodic hard rock featuring Philip Bardowell (Unruly Child) and Bruce Turgon (Lou Gramm). The first essential melodic rock album of 2009.

BAD HABIT ‘Above And Beyond’ AOR Heaven one for lovers of catchy AOR and just goes to show the Swedes are still one of the leading countries for high quality AOR.

TALL STORIES Frontiers the second album by the band (their debut came out in the early 90’s) who feature former Tyketto/Journey vocalist Steve Augeri. Not essential but worth a listen if you like Led Zep influenced bands like the Tea Party or Zebra.

VOX TEMPUS ‘Eye Of Time’ Angel Milk Records hopefully this one will get released (it has been much delayed) and have a full release it so richly deserves. Prog rock with a melodic edge and it features Eric Ragno in the line-up.

Help save live music in the UK

Join Feargal Sharkey in fighting the good fight!

http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/news/how-form-696-could-pull-the-plug-on-the-capitals-music-scene-1028240.html

 There’s more below and you can sign the petition here… http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/Scrapthe696

THE PETITION TO 10 DOWNING STREET…..

The 696 Form compels licensees who wish to hold live music events in 21 London Boroughs to report to the police the names, addresses, aliases and telephone numbers of performers, and most worryingly, the likely ethnicity of their audience. Failure to comply could result in fines or imprisonment.

The 696 form can only serve to deter the staging of live musical events – a positive form of activity in London and all cities – stifle free expression and quite possible penalise certain genres of music and ethnic audiences. It is an intrusion too far.

Reunion fever for 2009…

MOTT THE HOOPLE as next year sees the 40th anniversary of the band’s formation. Original organist Verden Allen let slip in an interview recently that all five members were getting back together for the occasion. It seems two gigs in London (Hammersmith) are being lined up, with other gigs most likely in the autumn to tie-in with a major DVD release covering their history.
BLACK SABBATH – the OZZY version. A US only tour is being rumoured.
A one-off concert for a DEEP PURPLE reunion with Mr BLACKMORE (the most unlikely one?).
BLUR are planning a live comeback tour.
THE SPECIALS are lining-up dates for 2009.
THE FACES, rehersals underway with a bassist to be confirmed.
ELO with JEFF LYNNE (yes please!!!).
And this one…Promoter Rob Hallett recently told the BBC that he’s in talks with an unnamed huge band to tour in 2009. “I do have another reformation up my sleeve that I can’t talk about yet that is going to please a lot of people of a certain age,” he said. “If you were a teenage boy in the pre- punk ’70s you’re going to be very excited. Outside of Led Zeppelin, this is probably the biggest reformation you can hope for.” GENESIS (PETER GABRIEL era) or PINK FLOYD anyone?

New albums out this month worth a listen…

If you like jangly pop rock with a BYRDS flavour then check out GRANTURA ‘In Dreams And Other Stories’. They are from Liverpool but close your eyes and you would swear they were American. One of rock ‘n’ roll’s forefathers, LITTLE RICHARD has his hits compiled ‘Best Of’ Universal and it is a perfect introduction to his music.

Frontiers Records wheels out the big guns this month with MAGNUM vocalist BOB CATLEY ‘Immortal’, his heaviest outing yet and Magnus Karlsson is the main songwriter/producer this time around. CROWN OF THORNS are back after an extended break with ‘Faith’ which has the band doing what they do best, a mix of hard rockers and ballads. A great double live CD from NIGHT RANGER ‘Rockin’ Shibuya 2007′ makes all three essential buys this month!

Not heard either of these two albums yet but QUEEN + PAUL RODGERS ‘The Cosmos Rocks’ EMI has had a few good early reviews and I am looking forward to hearing this one despite the rather tame single ‘C-Lebrity’. METALLICA are supposedly back to their classic sound on ‘Death Magnetic’ Elektra and they will have to be good to entice me back after the average fare they have been peddling since the ‘Black’ album.

For those new to MICHAEL SCHENKER the MSG ‘The Best Of MSG’ EMI this is an excellent intro. The band featured the vocal talents of GARY BARDEN and GRAHAM BONNET (RAINBOW/ALCATRAZZ), although Bonnet lasted one album like he did in RAINBOW! EVERGREY are on a new label and return to their classic sound after a slight musical detour on their last studio album. The new album ‘Torn’ SPV is good but there are a couple of songs that sound average when compared to the band’s past output. DRIVER feature BOB ROCK (JOSHUA) on vocals and guitarist/producer ROY Z (HALFORD/BRUCE DICKINSON). The album is called ‘Sons Of Thunder’ Metal Heaven, with much of the album updated from the band’s 1989 demo release plus some newly composed songs. A great album filled with hard rock and two wonderful ballads – a definate ‘must have’. Finally a rather nifty two CD compilation of blues hard rockers MOUNTAIN ‘OVER THE TOP’ SPV/Yellow. Perfect, if like me, you have read about the band but have not heard much by them.

www.getreadytorock.com//album_reviews.htm

New albums out soon and worth a listen include…

ALICE COOPER ‘Along Came A Spider’ (SPV), which sees a return to his more stripped down sound and it is a concept album about a serial killer. EXTREME are back after a thirteen year gap with ‘Saudades de Rock’ (Frontiers), an album that has all the band’s best bits from funk rock/metal, to melodic rock and of course their trademark harmony filled ballads. THE ALARM ‘Guerrilla Tactics’ (Alarm Productions) is another fine set of songs from Mike Peters & co. Some really good sing-a-long anthems on here like ‘Three Sevens Clash’. THE KEITH REID PROJECT ‘The Common Thread’ (Rockville) features a whole host of guest vocalists joining Keith Reid of Procul Harum fame including John Waite (The Babys/Bad English) and Chris Thompson (Manfred Mann’s Earthband). Very strong set of songs which cover many musical genres from AOR through to Latin and folk.

Looking to September the new BOB CATLEY ‘Immortal’ (Frontiers) will please his fans as he keeps the metal sound of his last solo album but adds some of the pomp of Magnum into the mix as well. Magnus Karlsson (Primal Fear/Allen/Lande/Starbreaker) is the chief songwriter and producer this time around. Another band back after a long break are CROWN OF THORNS whose new album ‘Faith’ (Frontiers) sees them doing what they do best – catchy melodic hard rock and big production ballads.

101 SOUTH ‘Roll Of The Dice’

101 SOUTH ‘Roll Of The Dice’ (2002) gypsyrockrecords@aol.com

    I know this is an ‘old’ release having originally been released back in 2002 on Atenzia Records but like the band’s debut album in 2000 released on MTM, both record labels have since gone out of business. But luckily keyboards player and one of the driving forces in 101 South (and also Harlan Cage) Roger Scott Craig has made this superb AOR release available again. On vocals is Gregory Lynn Hall who has the perfect AOR/melodic rock voice, albeit at the harder edge of vocalists -hints of Lou Gramm at times.  The other notable name musician is Billy Liesegang on guitars (his solo albums are worth checking out as well).

   There are some great songs on here like ‘What’s Your Game?’ with its pomp keys and catchy chorus. The ballad ‘Dark Cloud On The Horizon’ reminded me of Dare on their AOR led debut album – fantastic stuff. The hooks and keys keep on coming as can be heard on ‘Borderline’ and ‘Ride Out The Storm’, both would easily grace the airwaves if given the chance. The closing song ‘Get Up And Go’ takes a detour into slow blues rock and Gregory Lynn Hall’s vocals suit the music perfectly.

   Like many great AOR and melodic rock albums this one was hampered by label problems and getting the music out there. Fans of Harlan Cage, Dare (their first two albums) and Foreigner would certainly love this album. Go grab a copy if you don’t have this as this is what classic AOR is all about.

THE KEITH REID PROJECT ‘The Common Thread’

Don’t normally post CD rveiews on here but this one is worthy of further exposure and is out on August 29th.

THE KEITH REID PROJECT ‘The Common Thread’ Rockville (2008) www.myspacemusic.com/keithreidproject

   Keith Reid formed Procul Harum with Gary Brooker and was responsible for the band’s lyrics throughout their career. He has now assembled a fine cast of musicians and vocalists for his own project whose musical style dips its toes into folk, rock, AOR, Latin and more. Fear not though despite this pot purée of styles it all holds together well due to Reid’s lyrics and the fine vocals.

   The AOR comes from John Waite on ‘In God’s Shadow’ and the simply wonderful ‘Gold Fever’ – Waite as ever sounds on top form. Southside Johnny rattles through two songs, the up tempo ‘Ninety-Nine Degrees In The Shade’ and the album’s title track, both of which sound just like Southside Johnny’s own songs! Bernie Shanathan produces a wonderful vocal on ‘Potter’s Field’, a story telling folk tune that Fairport Convention would love to do I am sure. I thought it was Tom Petty on ‘The Heartbreak House’ as the musical backing and voice sounded so much like Petty, but in fact it is Michael Saxell. ‘Silver Town’ is another strong AOR leaning song although personally I skip ‘The Only Monkey’ with its slightly annoying backing vocal. Terry Reid pops up on ‘Too Close To Call’, whilst Chris Thomson (Manfred Mann’s Earth Band) adds his vocals to ‘It Might Be Your Heart’ and the original version of ‘You’re The Voice’, which was of course a massive hit for John Farnham and has been covered by many other artists including Heart.

   A very enjoyable album with some fine vocal performances, strong song writing and highly recommended for not only fans of the various vocalists involved but anyone who just likes damn fine music.

Add you mix tapes selections…

http://stokieboy.wordpress.com/my-ideal-mix-tapes/

Last FM playlist w/e 5th July 2008

Whitesnake top the playlist again as the old classics keep getting an airing plus a few choice numbers of their recent album. Avantasia I picked up after rave reviews and it does not disappoint! Prog metal meets melodic rock with some fine guest vocalists including Magnum’s Bob Catley and Alice Cooper. Still loving the new Journey album plus the re-recorded classics are well worth a listen as well. Arnel Pineda has slotted into the band seamlessly.

Been playing lots of Styx after reading Sterling Whitaker’s excellent ‘Styx – An Unauthorized Biography’. Thjis is a highly recommended read for any fan of the band and includes the band’s various solo careers and offshoots like Damn Yankees and Shaw/Blades.

Triumph still playing their two CD ‘Best Of’ and Lillian Axe make my weekly top 10 after listening to the re-released ‘Fields Of Yesterday’ (Z Records). This covers tunes the band recorded from the late 80’s to mid-90’s and there are some real gems on this album including ‘Death valley Daze’ and ‘Do It’.

Kamelot have to be one of the finds of the past couple of years for me. This band are easily my favourite prog/symphonic metal band and in vocalist Khan they have one of the best singers out there. My love of indie rock rears up with Oasis whose earlier albums would certainly appeal to rock fans although their last two albums have been patchy quality wise. Been playing the first two albums by Dare who recently played Sweden Rocks with original guitarist Vinny Burns joining them onstage. Finally the Hooters, whose album released last year came out with little fanfare but is up their with their best material.

Last FM playlist w/e 29th June 2008

Still playing lost of classic Whitesnake thanks to the excellent 3 CD ‘30^th Anniversary’ set plus even more now following the sad passing of former Whitesnake guitarist Mel Galley – RIP.

Journey still up there as their new album grows more and more on each play. Easily their best album since’ Raised On Radio’. AOR heaven with Brother Firetribe and Khymera, the latetr who recall the glory days of Guiffria.

The debut album by progressive metal band Saint Deamon is well worth a listen and is one of the strongest debuts in this genre of music I have heard for a long time. Can’t wait for their second album. The new album from King’s X has some real gems although like many of their recent albums there are a couple of songs you keep skipping across. Ayreon’s new(ish) album is still getting regular plays along with the song ‘Rage’ of their last album as the great Devin Townsend features on that song.

Bit of 60’s pop rock/psychedelic rock with The Move who are very underrated when it comes to key bands in the late 60’s. Considering this band spawned the chart success of Roy Wood and Wizzard and ELO they certainly deserve more exposure and credit in my view.

Robb Johnson and the Irregulars are a perfect mix of folk, rock, singer/songwriter and pop. Robb Johnson pens some wonderful tunes and hopefully a new album is due later this year.

Finally my all time favourite band (along with ELO) Queen make this week’s top ten after digging out ‘The Works’ album.

Last FM playlist w/e 22nd June 2008

Now in my defence James Blunt is number one this week as our new arrival baby Kameron loves a bit of Bluntie especially the song ‘1973′. Whitesnake are picking up plays after getting the excellent ‘30^th Anniversary’ 3-CD set which if you have no ‘Snake on CD this is an excellent starting point. The Josh Goforth Band – who may you ask? Well they are a very talented bluegrass band who appeared recently at the Wee Spoon Festival in Fife and this CD my dad kindly leant to me.

Blue Öyster Cult and Triumph both after playing some classics by them – you can’t beet songs like ‘In Thee’, ‘Black Blade’ and ‘Allied Forces’. AOR band Urban Tale have only done one album which is a harmony filled treat and worth tracking down a copy if you can. Still loving Brother Firetribe and the Poodles, both excellent modern bands who meld the best of 80’s hard rock with modern production values.

Robin George great songs and top man as he has donated loads of CD’s to help my ongoing fundraising for the Nordoff-Robbins charity and the Donna Louise Trust. Over £50 raised so far between the two charities. Finally a bit of Christian rock with the legendary Petra. Their lyrics can get a bit too preachy for my tastes at times but their ability to pen catchy tunes is second to none.

Pink ‘n’ fluffy time :)

A quick round-up of all things melodic rock and AOR (I love many types of music but have always been a sucker for a harmony vocal, guitar riff and keyboards!)…

Vocalist JIMI JAMISON (ex-SURVIVOR) has a new album out in the autumn on Frontiers and it features fellow ex-Survivor band member JIM PETERIK (PRIDE OF LIONS). Now if that wasn’t good enough on one song on the upcoming album, ‘When Rock Was King’ there are a plethora of top draw guest vocalists including Don Barnes (.38 Special), Joe Lynn Turner (ex-Rainbow), Toby Hitchcock (Pride Of Lions) and original Survivor vocalist and dodgy beret wearer Dave Bickler. Wow can’t wait to hear this one!

The new JOURNEY album ‘Revelation’ does not disappoint! New vocalist Arnel Pineda has a Steve Perry (who recently revealed in an interview he is working on new songs) sound and he certainly does justice to the re-recorded classics on disc two. The new songs are very strong; ‘Never Walk Away’ has the band’s classic harmonies and Neal Schon let’s fly on his fret board on the instrumental.

After raving about BROTHER FIRETRIBE up pops another classy Scandinavian melodic rock band H.E.A.T. Less keys than BF but still some wonderful catchy hard rock tunes. This band will appeal to fans of BF, WIG WAM and THE POODLES.

More melodic rockers busily working away in the studio include VALENTINE, TYKETTO and FM. No set release dates for any of these new albums yet although Valentine and Tyketto hope to have their new albums out before October’s Firefest festival. The recently reunited EXTREME release their new album later this month as well.

I love hearing new bands and a UK band called RAIN (not the ones signed to Z records awhile back nor the Euo metal band of the same name) have been impressing me of late. Their new album ‘ sounds like REO Speedwagon, Toto and Fleetwood Mac in places. They call themselves ‘dad rock for the IPod generation’ but they are much better than that throwaway line!

GRTR! radio show Thursday-Sunday

Lots of good music from tonight and my selection of tunes are featured this Sunday evening between 6pm & 7pm including classics from JOURNEY, WHITE SISTER, GIUFFRIA & CHEAP TRICK along with newer tunes from BROTHER FIRETRIBE, KHYMERA, H.E.A.T., ASIA & RAIN. Air keyboards to the fore!

Mind you tonight at 8pm is good for blues rock fans with tunes from JOE BONAMASSA, GARY MOORE, NAZARETH, RORY GALLAGHER, SAHB & many more. Not so sure about jazz/fusion though

Cheers,

Jason R

www.getreadytorock.com/radio

THURSDAY June 5

19.00-20.00 Unsigned/indie
20.00-21.00 Blues Rock (selected by Stuart Hamilton)
21.00-22.00 The Songwriters
David Randall interviews Eleanor McEvoy and talks about her career and new album, ‘Love Must Be Tough’.
22.00-00.00 Thursday Rock
00.00-01.00 In the Early Hours (Jazz rock/fusion)

FRIDAY June 6

19.00-20.00 Unsigned/indie
20.00-21.00 Metal (selected by The Fluffmeister)
21.00-22.00 Progressive/eclectic (selected by Peter Muir)
22.00-00.00 Friday Rock
00.00-01.00 Blues Rock (repeat)

SATURDAY June 7

12.00-00.00 Continuous Music

SUNDAY June 8

12.00-15.00 Continuous
15.00-17.00 Assume The Position
David Randall signposts new additions to the website, new releases and upcoming tours.
17.00-18.00 Hydrogyn
David Randall talks to Hydrogyn’s Julie Westlake including tracks from their new album ‘Deadly Passions’.
(This is the full version of the interview first broadcast on June 1).
18.00-19.00 Melodic Rock (selected by Jason Ritchie)
19.00-20.00 The Songwriters
David Randall interviews Eleanor McEvoy and talks about her career and new album, ‘Love Must Be Tough’.
(First broadcast June 5)
20.00-22.00 Continuous Music
22.00-00.00 Assume The Position (repeat)

Last FM top 10 playlist w/e 1st June

1 Dare – playing the band’s first two albums – classic stuff!

2 Brother Firetribe – can’t beat a bit of keyboard drenched melodic hard rock.

3 Kyle Vincent – highly listenable pop rock singer/songwriter who deserves more recognition.

4 Journey – new album out next week, warming up with some classic Journey songs.

5 Enuff Z’Nuff – would love some new songs from this band.

6 Urban Tale – classy Swedish AOR band who are sadly now defunct. Feature the highly talented Kimo Blom on vocals.

7 Triumph – after buying a double CD ‘Anthology’ by this band can’t stop playing them

8 Europe – more spins for the ‘Best Of’ CD.

9 Queen – been playing my personal fave Queen album ‘The Game’.

10 M.ill.ion – their new album ‘Thrill Of A Lifetime’ is immense. Classic Hammond organ driven hard rock

My LastFM top ten plays w/e 25th May

1 Final Frontier – mainly their second album, ‘Second Wave’ which is one for fans of Journey. Their vocalist has just replaced Michael Sadler in Saga.

2 Brother Firetribe – got their new album now and again its keyboards to the fore! Not quite as good as their classy debut but still very good overall.

3 Triumph – can’t beat a bit of ‘Magic Power’ or ‘Allied Forces’!

4 Robin George – following on from his kind donation of signed CD’s for my fundraising efforts on Ebay I dug out ‘Dangerous Music’. A classic 80’s AOR/melodic rock album with the hit ‘Heartline’.

5 Journey – very AOR/melodic rock top 10 this week and this band are the undisputed kings of this genre in my eyes.

6 Khymera – Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69) on vocals for a cracking slice of modern melodic hard rock with a nod to the 80’s. One for fans of Guiffria.

7 Alliance - with Robert Berry (GTR /Ambrosia/Three) on vocals you can’t go wrong and this album will easily make my top 20 albums of 2008.

8 Bonham – loving listening to ‘Dreams’ and ‘Room For Us All’ again…

9 Blue Öyster Cult – just added some classics onto the old IPod including ‘Burnin’ For You’, ‘In Thee’ and ‘Fireworks’.

10 Enuff Z’Nuff – dug out their last album which still sounds good. Not sure on the bands future though especially as vocalist Donnie Vie did a solo album last year and doesn’t tour with the band outside of the US.

My Last FM playlist w/e 18th May

The following are the bands who have been troubling my PC and IPod most this last week…

1 Journey - playing some classics in readiness for the band’s new album due early next month

2 Brother Firetribe – I am a convert after getting their recently re-released debut album. Cracking melodic rock/AOR tunes!

3 The Hooters – downloaded their latest album of EMusic and it is not bad at all. Classic Hooters sound but slightly less folk sound.

4 Asia – mainly the new album and some John Payne-era songs getting an airring.

5 Ayreon – still loving the new album.

6 Europe - back in my palylist after picking up their ‘Best Of’ for £2 in a recent car boot sale.

7 King’s X – their new album ‘XV’ combines all the best bits of this band. Well worth getting.

8 Tom Fuller Band – US singer/songwriter with a Beatles/Tom Petty sound. Very enjoyable album.

9 Don Airey – his new solo album is just right – some good vocal rockers, a ballad and some superb instrumental tunes.

10 Pineapple Thief – new band to these ears but definitely a band to check out if you like Elbow.

Check out my music taste: http://www.last.fm/user/Stokieboy/

Brother Firetribe – WOW!

Bought BROTHER FIRETRIBE’s revamped debut album and boy this album is IMMENSE! Brings back the glory days of 80’s melodic rockers like GIUFFRIA, WHITE SISTER and HOUSE OF LORDS. Loads of keyboards, harmony vocals to send you into seventh heaven and tasty guitar solos. I have ordered their new album – seriously they really are something special. They feature members of NIGHTWISH and LEVERAGE in their ranks.

Added some suitably OTT keyboard led AOR/melodic rock tunes to the Vodpod – pomp it up!

A beginner’s guide to white metal/Christian rock…

Back in the 80’s myself and my good friend Phil Berisford gained a big appetite for all things melodic rock (and we still do to this day!), getting all excited at the latest vinyl imports arriving at Mike Lloyd’s in Hanley and reading the ‘Wimpwire’ column in Kerrang! by Derek Oliver. But one whole genre that opened up to us was that of white metal or Christian rock. Stryper are the most instantly recognisable name and they found success in the 80’s with their distinctive yellow and black stage costumes, harmony filled melodic rock and throwing bibles into the audience! Now as good as Stryper were on further digging there were a whole host of better white metal/rock bands out there. Here are a few personal picks that have stood the test of time to these ears…(one of the best places for hunting these albums down was a Christian music store just off China Town in London but sadly it is now closed)

The biggest band in this genre outside of Stryper has to be Petra. Big harmonies, they could rock out on ‘On Fire’ or go all ‘lighters-in-the-air’ on ‘First Love’. Very in your face religious lyrics and they also did a series of praise albums. Grab ‘On Fire!’ and ‘Beyond Belief’, both are cracking albums. The band retired back in 2006 after over 30 years touring and recording.

Mastedon (not to be confused with Mastodon the nu breed metallers) were the brainchild of John and Dino Elefante (both ex-Kansas) and released two superb albums, ‘It’s A Jungle Out There’ and ‘Lofcaudio’. Both featured many guests like Ken Tamplin and Dave Amato (REO Speedwagon) plus the first album had many ‘name’ musicians playing on it but they couldn’t be named for contractual reasons!

Speaking of Ken Tamplin he released three albums with the band Shout. These contained very catchy metal meets hard rock tunes and less overtly religious lyrically. His solo work is well worth checking as well as he is a much underrated talent. ‘Fate Of Nations’ with guests including Jeff Scott Soto is a good starting place.

Kerry Livgren of Kansas fame formed A.D. with fellow ex-Kansas member Dave Hope. Very AOR and laid back in places, they would appeal to fans of Chicago and Toto.

Jet Circus were a Swedish band whose ‘Step On it’ album is something different. It takes glam metal, adds some rap and distorted guitars for a very catchy set of songs. They are now known as Leviticus.

Other bands worth a listen…

Barren Cross were the Iron Maiden of white metal, with a vocalist who sounded uncannily like Bruce Dickinson. You can still get their CD’s relatively cheaply on EBay or Amazon…Idle Cure were the scene’s Night Ranger meets Def Leppard and their ‘2^nd Avenue’ album is worth getting…Crystavox released only one album ‘Sacrifice’ and they were more pomp rock in sound…Angelica were a good AOR band, although their last album was pretty average…Guardian and Bride will appeal to metal fans, although both never really struck me as ‘must listens’ bar the odd decent tune…try The Newsboys for some pop rock  especially their  ‘Read All About It’ or ‘Hell Is For Whimps’ albums…finally punk band One Bad Pig for their duet with Johnny Cash ‘Man In Black’ – an absolute gem of a song.