Top 10 albums of 2009

My Top 10 list was originally posted on the Orange County Register SOUNDCHECK blog last week. Here it is again and even expanded a bit! I'm sorry about all the wonderful albums that didn't make the cut, but well could have. I'll note a bunch of those at the bottom of this post...

1. Carbon Leaf, Nothing Rhymes With Woman - Songs such as the shimmering Lake of Silver Bells, blues-minded Another Man's Woman, introspective Miss Hollywood and Celtic rocker Pink showcase the Virginia band's unique place in the modern music universe. I also got to see Carbon Leaf at The Coach House in 2009, with that concert stop allowing me a chance to hear many songs from Nothing Rhymes With Woman live.

2. Joe Bonamassa, The Ballad of John Henry - With the release of his seventh album, The Ballad of John Henry, singer-songwriter-guitarist Joe Bonamassa has delivered on the promise of his childhood prodigy talents. Featuring a wonderful mix of slow, soulful blues, classic-sounding British blues-rock and dizzying guitar workouts, the disc's dozen tracks explore the struggles and contributions of real-life working-class heroes.

3. The Decemberists, The Hazards of Love - While the album as a format may be spending its days in the intensive care unit, don't tell that to Portland's Decemberists. The Hazards of Love is a concept album that is best heard from start to finish, with the British folk-rooted style and ambitious story bound together in a way that recalls winning efforts such as Jethro Tull's underrated A Passion Play and the Who's seminal Tommy. And, no surprise, The Hazards of Love has also been released on vinyl. Nice.

4. Pearl Jam, Backspacer - On 2009's Backspacer, the pioneering outfit has issued an outstanding album that effortlessly blends its grunge foundation with new wave and power-pop. Backspacer is equal parts Neil Young and R.E.M., and demonstrates the greatness of a band able to surprise and delight almost two decades into its career.

5. Michael Ubaldini, Portable Record Player - On his latest studio disc, Fountain Valley, California-based Michael Ubaldini continues to mine his rich Americana and folk roots, but blends those styles with 1960s garage band-pop in the vein of the Zombies and early Kinks. Songs such as the scorching Scandal and Not a Heart Left to Steal are among his best-ever rockers, while the tender Memories of Belgium showcases his lyrical and descriptive song craft.

6. Dave Matthews Band, Big Whiskey and the Groogrux King - With a collection of songs that rock (Why I Am), groove (Shake Me Like a Monkey) and elicit tears (Lying in the Hands of God), DMB hit one out of the park with this one.

7. Muse, The Resistance - If Queen had emerged in the '00s, it might sound something like Muse. There was a time not long ago, when this kind of big, bold and brazen rock was out of fashion. The Resistance is both brash and beautiful, and it seems that Muse has finally been able to quiet the endless comparisons with Radiohead.

8. Pet Shop Boys, Yes - Before music fans dismiss this choice with a "Are you kidding me?," it might best be to get a good listen to the latest studio release from Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe. Songs such as Did You See Me Coming?, Love Etc. and Vulnerable easily equal or best the duo's best-known hits (West End Girls, It's a Sin). The third track on the disc, Beautiful People, is my favorite song of 2009. A great dance record. A great record period.

9. Grizzyl Bear, Vecatimest - Even if I didn't like Grizzly Bear's dazzling mix of Beatlesque harmonies, Radiohead-styled experimentalism and all the nifty jazz touches, I would recommend everybody hear this. But the fact that all the eclecticism is wrapped in wonderful songs that are artful and easy on the ears makes this one of the top release of 2009. Just don't ask me to pronounce Vecatimest. I can't.

10. Dinosaur Jr., Farm - Armed with distorted guitars enhanced by waves of feedback, guitarist J Mascis and company served up a heavy dose of classic rock served up on sonic steroids. From the moment Dinosaur Jr. launches into Pieces, it's clear there is a timelessness and power to the band that remains a wonderful bridge between Neil Young classic rock and all the alt rock heroes who have followed in Dinosaur Jr.'s footsteps over the past 25 years.

Here are some other really great albums I have enjoyed this year and all will be on many other music fans' Top 10s for 2009:

Alison Brown, The Company You Keep - The talented banjo player and composer released another gem, this one featuring her work fused with pianist John R Burr and bassist Garry West and other musical pals.

Pat DiNizio, Pat DiNizio/Buddy Holly - Pat DiNizio is the incredibly-talented lead singer of The Smithereens. He took the 50th anniversary of the so-called "Day the Music Died" to release a tribute to the great Buddy Holly. This is a loving and lasting keepsake to many of Holly's most beloved songs from an artist who honors the originals while bringing his own style to the classic material.

Morrissey, Years of Refusal - Speaking of 1959, Morrissey was born the year that Holly died. Fifty years later, Morrissey is making some of the best music of his long career. His voice and songwriting skills have not dimmed and he continues to display a style that defies comparison.

U2, No Line on the Horizon - Many regular readers of my writing were likely surprised this album didn't land on my Top 10. It well could have and is a great album.

'The T.A.M.I. Show' coming to DVD in March 2010

One of the rarest rock events ever captured on film, the 1964 concert known as The T.A.M.I. Show, featuring performances by future Rock and Roll Hall of Famers the Rolling Stones, James Brown, Chuck Berry, the Beach Boys, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson & the Miracles, the Supremes and many others, will be officially released for the first time by Shout! Factory on March 23, 2010. The T.A.M.I. Show: Collector's Edition includes exciting new bonus features including new commentary by director Steve Binder, original T.A.M.I. Show radio spots, and a 20-page booklet with liner notes and rare photos and memorabilia.

The T.A.M.I. Show was filmed live at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium in 1964, a mere seven months after The Beatles appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show and introduced the Swinging '60s to America. This legendary film has never been available on DVD, and hasn't been seen in its entirety since it originally appeared in theaters, including its "world premiere" at 33 Los Angeles area movie theaters on Nov. 14, 1964. Mastered from a new high-definition transfer and restored to its original length, this complete version features the Beach Boys performances that were removed shortly after the film's initial theatrical run.

The T.A.M.I. Show is the first concert movie of the rock era, capturing such superstars as the Rolling Stones (a line-up that included guitarist Brian Jones), James Brown, Chuck Berry, the Beach Boys, the Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Jan & Dean, Gerry and the Pacemakers, the Miracles (featuring Smokey Robinson), and many other Motown and British Invasion acts in their early prime.

Among the performances (please note this is not the full list):

Chuck Berry
Johnny B. Goode
Maybellene

Gerry and the Pacemakers
Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying
It's Gonna Be Alright

Jan & Dean
The Little Old Lady (From Pasadena)
Sidewalk Surfin'

The Beach Boys
Surfin' U.S.A.
I Get Around
Surfer Girl
Dance, Dance, Dance

The Supremes
Baby Love
Where Did Our Love Go

The Rolling Stones
Around and Around
Off the Hook
Time Is On My Side
It's All Over Now
I'm Alright

Gary 'Ho Ho' Hoey brings Chistmas concert to Coach House

Photo Credit: Steve Pitkin

Virtuoso guitarist Gary Hoey brings his annual holiday show to the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Saturday night, Dec. 19.

Hoey has released several Christmas-minded sets since the mid-1990s and his "Gary 'Ho Ho' Hoey" shows have become an increasingly-popular concert draw every December. Fans who attend his upcoming show at the Coach House this weekend will likely hear him play instrumental, electric guitar-anchored versions of traditional material such as "Jingle Bell Rock," "The First Noel" and "Winter Wonderland," all of which can be heard on 2003's Ho! Ho! Hoey: the Complete Collection.

My complete concert preview on Hoey's upcoming concert will be posted on the Orange County Register later this week.

GRAMMY Award nods not bad at all

I've been so busy this week, I have not had a chance to reflect on the GRAMMY Award nominations. In no particular order, here are some deserving artists who earned nominations for the upcoming 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards that will be in my thoughts next month.

The annual awards ceremony is set to be held on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010.

Neil Young has been nominated for two 2010 GRAMMY Awards, with the title track from his latest studio album Fork in the Road nominated for "Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance," while his Archives Vol. 1 (1963-1972) has been nominated for "Best Boxed or Special Limited Edition Package."

Rosanne Cash earned a "Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals" category nod for her performance of "Sea of Heartbreak," a duet with Bruce Springsteen featured on her latest album The List. This is Cash's ninth career nomination.

The Dave Matthews Band's Big Whiskey and the Groogrux King earned a nomination in the "Album of the Year" category, while Daryl Hall & John Oates picked up recognizion for "Sara Smile" in the "Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals.

Atlanta-based Third Day received three GRAMMY Award nominations, being recognized in the "Best Gospel Performance" and "Best Gospel Song" categories for the song "Born Again" from its Revelation album. In addition, Live Revelations: On Stage, Off Stage, Backstage also received a nomination in the "Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album" category.

And finally, Jars of Clay received a nomination in the "Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album" category for its April 21, 2009 release, The Long Fall Back To Earth.

Best of luck to all of these great artists in January when winners are announced!

A busy week: David Archuleta and Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Been a busy week for me. I reviewed David Archuleta at The Grove of Anaheim on Wednesday night (Dec. 2) and bounced back to review Trans-Siberian Orchestra last night (Dec. 3) at the Honda Center.

Although both were centered around Christmas music, the shows were completely different.

My reviews are posted on the O.C. Register Soundcheck blog. Here are the links to read my reviews and what readers thought of my analysis:

http://soundcheck.freedomblogging.com/

Have a great weekend everybody!

Creed brings reunion "Full Circle" tour to DVD

Photo credit: Donna Marshall

Fans of multi-platinum power rockers Creed are in for a special treat this holiday season as CREED LIVE, the first-ever DVD from one of the most successful bands of the past decade, hits stores and all major online retailers on Dec. 8, 2009, the day after its nationwide theatrical screening in movie theaters.

CREED LIVE, captured during the band's recent "Full Circle" reunion tour, includes every favorite track from the band, including "Higher," "My Sacrifice," "With Arms Wide Open" and "Bullets" plus new songs such as the powerful "Overcome" and "A Thousand Faces" from Full Circle, the band's first studio effort in seven years. The DVD also includes a revealing documentary that follows Creed throughout the "Full Circle" tour with exclusive band interviews and behind-the-scenes, and a photo gallery with more than 100 photos from the summer 2009 trek.

To preview clips of CREED LIVE, go to www.rockpit.com or www.creed.com.

Joe Bonamassa gets it right

This review was originally posted on the Orange County Register's Soundcheck Blog on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2009. I took the photo seen here at the show that night.

Joe Bonamassa impresses at The Coach House

Back in February, increasingly acclaimed singer-guitarist Joe Bonamassa released the seventh and strongest album of his burgeoning career, the aptly-titled The Ballad of John Henry.

Featuring a mix of slow, soulful blues (a version of Tom Waits' "Jockey Full of Bourbon," his own "Happier Times"), classic-sounding British blues-rock ("Feelin' Good," "The Great Flood"), the disc's dozen tracks explore the struggles and contributions of real-life working-class heroes.

But performing before a fervent, capacity crowd on Tuesday night, Nov. 10, 2009 at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, Bonamassa was another kind of hero altogether - the consummate guitar hero - who gave those everyday Joes he profiles on his latest studio effort a two-hour breather from the uncertain times that have marked the latter half of this decade.

Anyone who has seen Bonamassa, 32, knows the Upstate New York native can shred on six strings. Watching his 15-song performance on Tuesday, it was clear his approach is about much more than the speed and number of notes he played - it's about his bond with the guitar and his band, as well as the emotional depths he reaches with his music.

Kicking off this first of two Coach House gigs by belting his latest title track, Bonamassa's powerful vocals at times recalled Bad Company frontman Paul Rodgers, showcasing just how many skills this long-gestating new star has in his impressive sonic arsenal. And no matter the song, Bonamassa's fretwork lent artful shading to his arrangements.

Although Bonamassa generally let his music making do the talking, he did take a break in the set to note that Nov. 10 marked the 20th anniversary of his first professional show (he has been playing guitar since age 5). He and his band - bassist Carmine Rojas, keyboardist Rick Melick and incredible drummer Bogie Bowles - celebrated the occasion with memorable performances of some of his greatest material, including the fast rocker "Lonesome Road Blues" (akin to primo Eric Clapton) and the beautiful "Happier Times," during which his vocals took center stage.

Whether in a club or outdoors at a festival, something magnetic happens when Bonamassa steps to the front of the stage, leans his head back and simply lets loose. Now that the virtuoso guitarist has teamed that astonishing gift with his vocals and songcraft, best watch out - he might finally get recognized as the next Stevie Ray Vaughan after all.

Shawn Jones, a Southern California-based singer-songwriter-guitarist, displayed many of the same instincts as Bonamassa throughout his 45-minute performance. Armed with an authentic, emotive voice, Jones used every verse, chorus and guitar break to share real feeling with the receptive crowd. His eight-song set here was highlighted by the Delta blues-ish "Glorybound," an upbeat and crowd-pleasing "I Can't Help Myself" and a beautiful ballad titled "Heaven's Daughter" that showcased his dazzling guitar playing and strong vocals.

Reprise Records to release re-mastered Neil Young classics

Reprise Records to release re-mastered versions of Neil Young's classic first four solo albums on Nov. 23, 2009

Nov. 6, 2009 - As part of its ongoing Archives reissue campaign with legendary singer-songwriter Neil Young, Reprise Records will release re-mastered versions of the first four of Young's classic solo albums, 1969's Neil Young and Everybody Knows This is Nowhere, 1970's After the Gold Rush and 1972's Harvest. These very special reissues, which will be available on Nov. 23, have each been re-mastered from the original analog master tapes by Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman Mastering Studios in Hollywood, CA.

The albums are being reissued on both vinyl and compact disc.

For more information on these releases, visit http://www.neilyoung.com/ or http://www.becausesoundmatters.com/.

'The Village' celebrates music of Greenwich Village

Today marks the official release date for an exciting and eclectic release from 429 Records.

"The Village - A Celebration of the Music of Greenwich Village" features a number of acclaimed artists who might not typically perform together, but whose collective talents are the perfect fit on this fascinating compilation disc.

The 13 songs on the disc are a celebration of the early-mid 1960s, when the Greenwich Village area of New York City was suddenly the center of a "musical, political and social evolution" that gave birth to a movement that stretched from the Big Apple (Bob Dylan) to Orange County, California (Tim Buckley). The artists who emerged out of this scene created groundbreaking folk music that gave voice to a young generation grappling with everything from the Vietnam War to the civil rights movement.

Fast forward to 2009 and more than a dozen artists pay musical tribute with renditions of popular songs of the day, as well as traditional gems that captured the youthful spirit of those turbulent times. Many compilations have a great song or two, with the others worth nothing more than a single listen. Not "The Village." This collection is especially strong, with Rickie Lee Jones kicking things off with a funky "Subterranean Homesick Blues" that is loose and infectious. Lucinda Williams also tackles a Bob Dylan classic, but her emotive delivery of "Positively 4th Street" is hushed and haunting.

Anyone who wonders whatever happened to Sixpence None the Richer will hear that the appeal of the reunited group is intact. Covering the traditional "Wayfaring Stranger," singer Leigh Nash's beautiful soprano floats over an artfully-arranged soundscape highlighted by Matt Slocum's wonderful guitar work.

Shelby Lynne also tackles a Dylan classic, using her strong vocal and a simple backdrop of guitars in "Don't Think Twice It's Alright." Other highlights on this ambitous collection include John Oates Americana-styled "He Was a Friend of Mine," Los Lobos' "Guantanamera," and Rachael Yamagata's "Both Sides Now."

Priced at only $11.99 at Amazon.com, I really recommend this set to everyone who is a fan of folk music, the '60s music scene or any of the artists featured on the collection.

The Bravery delivers in energetic show at House of Blues

This article was first posted on the Orange County Register Web site on Monday, Nov. 2, 2009.



The Bravery preview new songs at vibrant Mouse House show



While the Bravery may continue to sound like a hybrid born out of early Cure and War-era U2, the quintet's strong concert on Sunday night (Nov. 1) at House of Blues Anaheim was certainly no tribute act.

Under the charismatic leadership of singer Sam Endicott, the group's thrilling 70-minute show celebrated the New York band's blend of post-punk, new-wave and alt rock with 18 songs pulled from the past as well as its coming release, Stir the Blood, a self-described angry album due Dec. 1, 2009.

The Bravery had several things going in its favor at the Mouse House: a large and enthusiastic crowd in tune with the outfit's approach plus a set list showcasing the band's songwriting and live skills at their best.

Whether performing its best-known material ("Unconditional," "Believe," "An Honest Mistake," "The Ocean") or new songs ("I Have Seen the Future," "Jack O' Lantern Man"), the Bravery's cohesive sound blended with artful projections of lights and films shown behind and over them. Endicott, lead guitarist Michael Zakarin, bassist Mike Hindert, drummer Anthony Burulcich and keyboardist John Conway didn't use the visuals so they could scale back their own musical attack, but rather to enhance the show.

Among the strong new sneak peeks in the mix were "Slow Poison," bolstered by both a driving dance beat and a layered guitar sound (Zakarin used a violin bow to play his electric guitar, evoking Sigur Ros), and "Red Hands and White Knuckles," which Endicott described as his love song to New York City.

The Bravery has a potent one-two attack with a lineup that features both a commanding lead singer and a skillful lead guitarist. Endicott used his outgoing personality and striking vocals to lead the proceedings with Zakarin fitting in comfortably nearby, before suddenly unleashing memorable fretwork that provided extra zing throughout the set.

A true bonus for those who caught the Bravery on Sunday night was the inclusion of two strong opening acts. Although the Dustys and Living Things each performed for only about 30 minutes, both acts made the most of their brief turns. The former, from Arlington, Va., recall England's Doves, offering up alluring indie-rock; the latter, out of St. Louis, creates retro rock that's an unlikely sonic cross between the Ramones and '70s Rolling Stones, punched up by raw, in-your-face lyrics.

U2 performs at the Rose Bowl

These great photos were taken by Joe Hail.

My review of the show is below the images.

Photos courtesy of Joe Hail.

Every time I catch U2 in concert and have to deal with the unbearable gridlock, obnoxious contingent of casual fans who could really care less about the music and the real-life hassles of going to a big rock show, I recall my magical first-time encounter with the Irish quartet.

A day or so after I graduated from Cal State Fullerton, I headed to the US Festival on Monday morning, May 30, 1983. I wasn’t very familiar with U2 when I arrived at Glen Helen Park in San Bernardino County, but after catching Bono, guitarist the Edge, bassist Adam Clayton and drummer Larry Mullen Jr. unleash an epic show constructed around the recently-released album “War,” I was an instant convert and have caught the band countless times since in shows here in Southern California, as well as in San Jose, Ca., Florida, New York and Nevada.

So it will come as no surprise that I braved the relatively-short trek up to the Rose Bowl in Pasadena last night (Sunday, Oct. 25) to see U2 on its 360° Tour. After all, this is reportedly the only public performance by the band coming to California this year.
In terms of the technology, stage design anchored by “The Claw” and the top-notch sound system, amazing. The band’s set list was also strong (check it out below, thanks to O.C. Register music writer Ben Wener, who posted it earlier today with his review on www.ocregister.com). In contrast to those positives, the crowd I dealt with in my section was of the idiot variety. Why go to a show if you’d rather play with your iPhone, cell phone or go on beer runs all night? When the polite security person tells you to get out of the handicapped section and go to your assigned seat, don’t yell obscenities when you are at fault.

Okay, now that I have that out of my system, how was U2 – that is the real question. There was plenty of shining moments across the concert for sure. Early in the set, “Get on Your Boots” outdistanced the studio recording on the “No Line on the Horizon” album. And the magnificent “Magnificent” was exactly that. Of the other songs performed last night whose versions really hit home, I count “Beautiful Day,” the blistering “Vertigo,” powerful “Until the End of the World” and “Ultraviolet (Light My Way)” as the definite highlights.
I was sadly disappointed by the version of “The Unforgettable Fire” and especially “Walk On” (one of my favorite ‘00s U2 songs); they just seemed flat to me. The title track off “No Line on the Horizon” was also a bit of a disappointment. But make no mistake, the band itself continues to play with a fire and power that defies their 30-year history as a band.

With audiences being what they are today – notably bored and distracted by anything not involving themselves – I wonder if any band can really capture an audience for an extended set in a gigantic setting such as the Rose Bowl. After all, a reported 95,000-plus were on hand Sunday night, with who knows how many more watching via a well-publicized streaming of the two-hour concert via YouTube. U2 continues to be a great band, and there is a good chance that those who stood on the floor and crowded near the stage felt the awesome surge that I did when I first felt that unforgettable fire on a blistering day in May more than 26 years ago.

What did I think of the opening night’s act? Well, because of the difficulty getting into the Rose Bowl, waiting in line 15 minutes to get a bottle of water, I only caught the last 1/3 of the Black Eyed Peas’ set. The only highlight was watching Slash tear it up on the classic Guns N’ Roses track “Sweet Child o’ Mine.” Less than 24 hours after catching Fergie and company, that’s all I remember of their time in the limelight. I so wish that we had got Muse like so many other stops on the 360° Tour!


Set list: U2 at the Rose Bowl, Sunday night, Oct. 25, 2009

Intro music: Space Oddity (David Bowie) / Kingdom of Your Love (excerpt)

Main set: Breathe / Get on Your Boots / Magnificent / Mysterious Ways / Beautiful Day (with snippets of In God’s Country and the Beach Boys’ God Only Knows) / I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For / Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of (acoustic) / No Line on the Horizon / Elevation / In a Little While / Unknown Caller / Until the End of the World / The Unforgettable Fire > City of Blinding Lights / Vertigo (with snippet of the Stones’ It’s Only Rock ’n’ Roll) / I’ll Go Crazy If I Don’t Go Crazy Tonight (Redanka Remix) (with snippet of Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s Two Tribes) > Sunday Bloody Sunday / MLK > Walk On

First encore: Bishop Desmond Tutu message > One > Amazing Grace > Where the Streets Have No Name

Second encore: Ultraviolet (Light My Way) / With or Without You / Moment of Surrender

Rachael Ray launches Hall & Oates-minded campaign

Hey everybody, read and join in the effort! I signed the petition earlier today!

Rachael Ray Outraged Over Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Oversight;
Launches Campaign to Induct Daryl Hall and John Oates

Check out her petition here: http://bit.ly/2uqabU

Rachael Ray was outraged at a recent taping of her show with guests Daryl Hall and John Oates when she learned that the biggest-selling pop duo of all time have not been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The episode will air November 6, 2009. Determined to right this egregious wrong, Rachael said "Hall and Oates has my vote!" in a call to action posted on her blog, urging fans to leave comments advocating Daryl and John's induction. In fewer than 48 hours, the makeshift petition had amassed nearly 400 testimonials, plus groundswells of support on Twitter (#hallandoatespetition) and Facebook. Check out Rachael's petition and fan comments here: http://bit.ly/2uqabU

Fueling the uproar is the success of 'Do What You Want, Be What You Are: The Music of Daryl Hall and John Oates' (RCA/Legacy), the duo's first ever box set, which debuted at #89 on the Billboard chart this week – the third highest CD box set debut of 2009 behind the two Beatles sets – and #17 on the R&B chart.

Critics are effusively praising the "unsurprisingly excellent" (Washington Post Online) set, saying 'Do What You Want...' "will make fans' dreams come true (woo-ooh!)" (Entertainment Weekly). The Huffington Post declares that the "74-track assembly truly is one of the best box sets ever released."

Eclectic lineup still connects at Jack's Fourth Show

Note: This review was originally posted on the Orange County Register's Soundcheck Blog on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009.

Jack’s Fourth Show, the latest daylong bash presented by Southern California’s Jack FM radio affiliate, boasted one of the most bizarre bills in memory, a mix of favorites from the late ’70s and early ’80s that spanned mainstream rock (Eddie Money, Foreigner), cutting-edge alt-rock heroes (the B-52’s, above, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts), funk pioneers (George Clinton & Parliament-Funkadelic), new wave also-rans (Missing Persons) and even one of those hair bands (Ratt).

But in truth, the night’s lengthy lineup -– which ran from 4-11:30 p.m. on a chilly Saturday at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Irvine –- was much like the station’s wide-ranging play list.
Although many of the seats were empty when Missing Persons kicked things off, lead singer Dale Bozzio and the latest version of her band delivered a solid 40-minute set featuring all of the L.A. group’s classic hits. While Bozzio’s high notes occasionally sounded pinched, the work of original guitarist Warren Cuccurullo (a member of Duran Duran in the late ’80s and throughout the ’90s) was exceptional, adding plenty of bite to the old standbys.

If the adage “what was old is new again” could be considered a formula, it proved successful for several of the acts this night. Songs such as the hard-driving “Mental Hopscotch” and the timeless “Walking in L.A.” were especially powerful, with the quartet displaying a bit of the magic that got them booked at the legendary 1983 US Festival alongside heavyweights such as U2, the Pretenders and David Bowie.

Back in the ’80s, San Diego-bred outfit Ratt was one of several acts that gave rise to the SoCal heavy metal scene. Watching the long-haired quintet perform Saturday night, this reviewer had two observations: 1) The band’s songs are still as simple as ever, with chanted choruses and Stephen Pearcy’s lead vocals rarely wrapping themselves around anything resembling a full-fledged melody; and 2) Ratt’s approach nonetheless resulted in some headbanging tunes (“Round and Round,” “Wanted Man,” “Back for More”) that aren’t nearly as bad as I thought they were, thanks to some impressive Thin Lizzy-esque duel guitar workouts from Warren DeMartini and Carlos Cavazo.

But poor Eddie Money. When he emerged to perform, the sound system was completely in chaos. There was stage noise for the first five minutes or so, making it difficult for even the most discerning listeners to decipher that he and his band were playing “Two Tickets to Paradise.” By the time he got to his next song, “Think I’m in Love,” the sound thankfully improved.
Dishing out most of the Top 40 hits he scored in his heyday, Money remains a personable entertainer who pleased the party faithful with “Shakin’,” “Baby Hold On” and “Walk on Water.” But the best song of his turn in the spotlight came when he teamed with his daughter Jesse to perform “Take Me Home Tonight,” with the 21-year-old filling Ronnie Spector’s original role.

Performing as always with an ever-changing lineup of Parliament-Funkadelic, George Clinton primarily reminded that his skills as a vocalist have long ago deteriorated. His set worked, however, because his dance-ready funk was delivered with such power by a large ensemble of backing vocalists and musicians, many music fans couldn’t help but get on their feet and move to the grooves. The highlight was a set-ending, freewheeling version of “Atomic Dog.”
Things got even better as the night wore on, notably when Joan Jett and the Blackhearts took the stage. Jett’s set might well have been the strongest of the night, with the influential singer-songwriter delivering stripped-down, straight-ahead versions of old and new material for 50 minutes.
“Bad Reputation,” “Cherry Bomb,” her well-known version of Bruce Springsteen’s “Light of Day” and Jett’s biggest hit, “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” all worked well, as did the confessional “Naked” off her latest studio album, 2006’s Sinner. She closed her brisk set with her cover of “Crimson and Clover” and her own “I Hate Myself for Loving You.”

The party continued with a 65-minute showcase from the B-52’s, though anyone looking for surprises from the group was disappointed. One of the most distinctive troupes to emerge from the late ’70s new wave movement, the outfit’s classics (“Private Idaho,” “Planet Claire,” “Mesopotamia”) and newer stuff from 2007’s Funplex (“Pump,” “Ultraviolet”) blended together into one big dance mix.
The pleasing harmonies of singers Cindy Wilson and Kate Pierson were terrific on the upbeat “Roam,” while the deadpan counterpoint of Fred Schneider, set against the ladies’ sweet vocals on “Rock Lobster,” couldn’t help but bring smiles despite the cold night air.

I’m sure I’m not the only longtime music follower who scratched his head at the thought of Foreigner following Jett and the B-52’s, especially considering guitarist Mick Jones is the only original member left in the group. Yet the band has figured out how to capture lightening twice. Its recently released disc Can’t Slow Down debuted relatively high on Billboard’s Top 200 chart, bolstered by the voice of Kelly Hansen, who in concert sounds almost identical to original frontman Lou Gramm.
I’m still unconvinced of the classic-rock credentials of songs such as “Head Games,” “Urgent” and night-ending “Hot Blooded,” but there is no question that this version of Foreigner played as if it had no doubts about those tracks’ lasting appeal. Likewise, “Double Vision” and the Moody Blues-ish “Starrider” (with Thom Gimbel playing both flute and guitar) were delivered rousingly, thanks to Jones’ guitar work and Hansen’s strong vocals.
The crowd, much of which hung around until the end of the concert, seemed to love the stuff.

Deluxe edition of Keane's 'Hopes and Fears' set for release

Can't wait for this one friends! Had to share the news. This came in my inbox last night...

Hopes and Fears - Deluxe Edition

On May 10th, 2004 Interscope Records released ‘Hopes and Fears’, selling over 5.8 million copies worldwide, and landing a top 10 spot on the Billboard 200.

The album was also voted one of the “Best British Albums” ever in a Q Magazine/HMV poll, the first of two Keane albums to feature in the Top 20*.

Over the course of 10 years as an unsigned band, Keane had written what was to become one of the classic albums of our time, and one of the last multi-million selling albums of this generation. It marked a triumph for the three boys from Battle in East Sussex, but it was a success not without controversy. As a debut record, it stood alone in its originality. The absence of any guitars, a powerful, almost operatic vocal delivery, and a wall of melodic sound made solely from pianos, keyboards and a set of drums. The emotion of the record gave a voice to millions. The landscape at the time was awash with new bands from across the Atlantic, and it took Keane and ‘Hopes And Fears’ to bring all the attention back to British talent. The song writing talent of Rice-Oxley, now world renowned, reaped an Ivor Novello in 2004 for Best Composer of the Year.

Yet despite having written a record that united so many different people from all walks of life across the globe, its sudden phenomenal success almost tore the lifelong friends apart. For with its undisputed accolades, it quickly changed the band’s lives and threatened not only their long-standing friendships, but the career of Keane as well. Having fought against the grain for a decade around the country’s backroom bars in the back of a van, this sudden shot to fame for Keane transformed the very dynamics that had reaped them these rewards in the first place. This sweetest of victories could have turned remarkably bitter, but it created an edge and strength of resolution that had pulled Keane through from day one, and has subsequently set the tone for their future releases and successes ever since. In addition to the original tracklisting this deluxe album showcases previously un-released and rare material including early demo ‘Into The Light’, recordings from the band’s earliest Steve Lamacq and Jo Whiley radio sessions, the timeless b-side and fans favourite, ‘Snowed Under’ (from ‘Somewhere Only We Know’), and their debut self released singles. The sleeve notes have been penned by long-time supporter Steve Lamacq where he describes the first time he caught them at the Bull and Gate in Kentish Town, “there were only three of them but they sounded huge. They were independent of mind but definitely accessible”.



Hopes and Fears - Deluxe Edition

CD ONE
1. Somewhere Only We Know
2. Bend And Break
3. We Might As Well Be Strangers
4. Everybody’s Changing
5. Your Eyes Open
6. She Has No Time
7. Can’t Stop Now
8. Sunshine
9. This Is The Last Time
10. On A Day Like Today
11. Untitled 1
12. Bedshaped
13. Somewhere Only We Know Lamacq Live
14. Bedshaped Lamacq Live
15. Bend And Break Lamacq Live
16. We Might As Well Be Strangers Lamacq Live
17. This Is The Last Time Jo Whiley Live Lounge
18. With Or Without You Jo Whiley Live Lounge
19. A Heart To Hold You Jo Whiley Live Lounge

CD TWO
1. Snowed Under B-side
2. We Might As Well Be Strangers DJ Shadow Remix
3. Into The Light Demo Unreleased
4. Call Me What You Like Demo Zoomorphic single 1
5. Closer Now Zoomorphic single 1
6. Rubbernecking Zoomorphic single 1
7. Wolf At The Door Zoomorphic single 2
8. She Has No Time Demo Zoomorphic single 2
9. Call Me What You Like Zoomorphic single 2
10. Everybody’s Changing Fierce Panda single 1
11. The Way You Want It Fierce Panda single 1
12. This Is The Last Time Demo Fierce Panda single 2
13. Bedshaped Demo Fierce Panda single 2
14. Allemande Fierce Panda single 2
Live EP - Released 5th May 2005
15. Somewhere Only We Know Live
16. We Might As Well Be Strangers Live
17. This Is The Last Time Live
18. Everybody's Changing Live



www.keanemusic.com
www.myspace.com/keane

Eagle Rock to issue two John Denver releases

'Around the World Live' 5-DVD set (seen here) and 'Rocky Mountain High: Live in Japan' DVD set for release

New York, NY (Oct0ber 5, 2009)—On October 13, Eagle Rock Entertainment will pay homage to the timeless singer/songwriter/performer/activist John Denver.

The release of "Rocky Mountain High: Live In Japan" on DVD ($11.98 suggested price) and "Around The World Live" on a 5-DVD collection ($59.98 for this lengthy set) celebrates the life and immeasurable influence of this cherished artist. John Denver was a rare combination: an exemplary songwriter, gifted performer, and unwavering philanthropist. His peaceful vision and generous spirit permeated into every aspect of his work, touching fans all over the world.

Selling more than 40 million albums worldwide, Denver’s music has acquired him two Grammys, three American Music Awards, two Country Music Awards, and an Emmy, as well as an induction into the Songwriter’s Hall Of Fame. It was his devotion to environmental and humanitarian issues that stratified him from music mainstay to cultural icon before his passing in a 1997 plane crash.

The first three discs of "Around The World Live" are comprised of live performances from Australia in 1977, Japan in 1981, and England in 1986, complete with bonus tracks. Disc 4 complements the collection with a 1984 Japanese solo acoustic set, as well as a sprinkling of Farm Aid performances from 1985, 1987, and 1990. The final disc digs a bit deeper with two documentaries, each running an hour. One is an Earth Day program from 1990, and the other is a 1972 special about Bighorn sheep, which reside in Denver’s beloved Rocky Mountains. This beautiful restored footage was produced by Barry Ehrmann of Enliven Entertainment, who also produced ZZ Top’s Live From Texas DVD and Jason Aldean’s Wide Open Live & More DVD (both released via Eagle Rock).

“I was delighted to work with Eagle Rock on the production of this box set, as they share my vision of meticulous values that resulted in the pristine restoration of this treasured footage from the prime of John’s career” says Ehrmann. “This box set is a wonderful tribute to the legacy of John Denver.” For those who are just getting their first taste of Denver, disc 2 of Around The World Live will be sold separately as Rocky Mountain High: Live in Japan, which captures one of his seven shows from this Japanese tour in 1981. It includes four of his five #1 hits: “Annie’s Song,” “Calypso,” “Sunshine on My Shoulders,” and “Thank God I’m A Country Boy.”

Eagle Rock Entertainment is an international media production and distribution company operating across audiovisual entertainment programming. Eagle Rock Entertainment works directly alongside talent to produce the highest quality programming output covering film, general entertainment and musical performance. Eagle Rock Entertainment has offices based in London, New York, Germany, France & Toronto.

South O.C. gets sonic glimpse of the Abalone Dots

This story was posted on O.C. Register Web site: Oct. 7, 2009.

World music has taken on a new twist, thanks to the Abalone Dots.

The all-female quartet from Sweden will bring its fusion of pop, bluegrass, rock, alternative country-Western sounds to south Orange County for two shows this weekend.
The Abalone Dots will perform at the Dana Point Community House, 24642 San Juan Ave., Dana Point at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9 and at the Mission Viejo Civic Center in Mission Viejo at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 10. Admission to either show is $25.

Those who miss the group at these relatively small concert venues will have one more chance to see them, amid 30,000 or so fans Sunday at the Joshua Tree Music Festival.
The Abalone Dots have released several albums, including 2007's "From a Safe Distance" and 2008's "Traveler."

Since forming earlier this decade, the group has received rave reviews for musicianship as well as soaring vocal harmonies. The Dots recently performed at the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, Tenn., and received a standing ovation at one of Americana music's most distinguished forums.
Among the highlights on the Abalone Dots' most recent disc ("Traveler") are the country-styled "Craighead County Sky" and "A Simple Song," as well as the emotional ballad "Lost" and the bluegrass-tinged "Break the Silence."

The Abalone Dots feature Rebecka Hjukström, 22 (guitar, banjo, dobro, vocals), Sophia Hogman, 24 (mandolin, cello, keyharp, vocals), Louise Holmer, 25 (bass, piano, vocals), and Elin Mörk, 24 (fiddle, vocals).

Though they have been playing together only about six years, the Abalone Dots are top sellers on RCA Sweden and, thanks to appearances at events such as the South by Southwest music festival in Texas, the four musicians from a small town on the outskirts of Stockholm may soon be a top draw on this side of the Atlantic.

For more information on the performances, visit www.LordOfTheStringsConcerts.com.

Photo credit: Wout Folmer

“Karate Film Café” (Rated PG)
Where: Mission Viejo City Hall, 200 Civic Center, Mission Viejo
When: 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2009
How much: $6
Information: 949-470-3062 (Course #1760) or www.BrightBlueGorilla.com

Although Michael Glover and Robyn Rosenkrantz have shown their film “Karate Film Café” throughout Europe since its completion in January 2009 and plan to attend its Los Angeles premiere on Oct. 10, the couple is thrilled that the comedy will be screened in their hometown of Mission Viejo this weekend.
Glover and Rosenkrantz – whose musical alter ego Bright Blue Gorilla has been impressing audiences since 1990 – will perform a short set of their groundbreaking eclectic folk and exhibit their full-length film at Mission Viejo Civic Center on Saturday night, Oct. 3, 2009.

“Karate Film Café” is the follow-up to the filmmakers’ wonderful “The Mind of Henry Lime” (2007), which picked up “Best Comedy Feature” honors at the SMTV Film Festival in Bombay, India.

“We have been traveling for 20 years throughout Europe and all these years, we have met so many talented friends,” Rosenkrantz explained. “We set out to film the move in Los Angeles and asked people to come be in our movie. Nine people from Europe said ‘yes.’ “

The cast of “Karate Film Café” features actors from Denmark, Holland, Italy, France, Germany and the U.S. And although the indie filmmakers didn’t have a budget to pay participants, they did provide lodging and meals for the cast and crew who worked on the film.
The film was shot in Koreatown, Los Angeles in February and March 2008, with Bright Blue Gorilla than heading to Berlin, Germany to edit the film and complete post production.

“We shot it in HD (high definition) and make it look like film in post production,” Glover said of the professional look of ““Karate Film Café.”
“The set-up (building the sets and securing a window where everybody is available for the shoot) is the longest thing.”

Glover wrote the script over a two-month period while Bright Blue Gorilla was on tour in 2007. Glover’s film is set in Hollywood, where viewers “find a karate school with a weird type of karate, a DVD store with movies that nobody wants and a café with the world’s worst cook,” according to the production notes for the film. “Add to the story a crazy Italian with a deadly secret; a musician with terrible allergies; a computer nerd who thinks everyone is in love with her.”
The comedic mix adds up to “90 minutes of love, death, bad food and good music.”
Both Glover and Rosenkrantz also appear in the film.

“We were having such a good time, everybody put their energy into this,” Glover said.
“More than 100 people worked on this film, all for the love of it.”

In addition to their three full-length films (including 2005’s “Sister Sarah’s Sky”), Bright Blue Gorilla has also released 11 commercial CDs that have won fans across the globe. This writer considers Bright Blue Gorilla’s 1998 album “Mantra for the American Jungle” to be one of that decade’s best musical releases.
“You should be learning new stuff all the time,” Glover said. “We’re in a routine all our own, but it’s always changing.”

For more information, visit www.BrightBlueGorilla.com.

San Juan concerts GiveWay to Scottish sisters

Photo credit: COURTESY OF GIVEWAY

There has always been something special about what happens when siblings make music together. The Bee Gees, Beach Boys, Oasis and Corrs are among the many groups that found success in utilizing talent found in the family tree.
So it should come as little surprise that the four Johnson sisters who make up GiveWay have crafted a unique and accessible blend of Celtic music since they began playing as a professional quartet in January 2002.

GiveWay features Fiona (fiddle, guitar, whistles, backing vocals), Kirsty (accordion, lead vocals), Amy (drums, percussion, backing vocals) and Mairi (keyboards, backing vocals). All are in their 20s.

The sisters have been playing music since they were children, and since forming GiveWay, they have won honors at the Scottish music festival Celtic Connections and at BBC Radio 2's Young Folk Awards. GiveWay has performed throughout the United States and Europe, including at the Cambridge Folk Festival and Glasgow's Royal Concert Hall.
The group will perform two shows Saturday night, Oct. 3, 2009 as part of the Music at the Library concert series in San Juan Capistrano. The shows will be staged at the regional library, located at 31495 El Camino Real. There will be a show at 6:30 p.m. and another at 8:30 p.m.

During the performances, GiveWay will feature songs from its 2002 commercial debut, "Full Steam Ahead," 2005's follow-up, "Inspired," and the July 2009 effort, "Lost in This Song."

For more information, call 949-493-1752 or visit www.musicatthelibrary.com .

Brian Setzer Recruits Visionary Arranger Frank Comstock For Film Noir-Inspired Album

Photo credit: Collin Stark

What does a modern-day big band leader do when they want to re-create the sounds of classic 1950s film noir music?

For Brian Setzer, the answer was simply to go to the source, the legendary Frank Comstock, who wrote arrangements for Benny Carter, Stan Kenton, Les Brown, and Judy Garland, penned the theme songs for Rocky & Bullwinkle, Adam 12, and Dragnet, and recorded the cult classic ‘Music From Outer Space’.

Comstock wrote the horn charts for nine of the twelve tracks on ‘Songs From Lonely Avenue,’ (Surfdog/ Oct. 13, 2009), having also worked with Setzer on his last album ‘Wolfgang’s Big Night Out’. As Setzer saw it, only Comstock was capable of putting together these electrifying, sophisticated and yet emotionally raw horn charts, evoking the big-band scores of half a century ago in a language that would connect immediately with the contemporary listener.“Frank is the only one left,” Setzer says of his collaborator.

“He helped invent this sound and, at 87 years old, he’s still got it.”

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers to release live anthology

TOM PETTY and The Heartbreakers to release multiple disc, career-spanning 'The Live Anthology' in November 2009

Configurations and unique features of Definitive Live Set will include a first-of-its-kind Blu-ray Audio Disc andThe Super Highway Tour online music experience

Burbank, CA – The week of November 22, 2009, Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers and Reprise Records will release "The Live Anthology," a multiple-disc set of recordings drawn from 30 years of live performances. The collection brings together material from 1978-2007 culled from hundreds of hours of live concert recordings covering every era of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ tours and represents the best tracks as chosen by producers Tom Petty, Mike Campbell and Ryan Ulyate.

"The Live Anthology" will come in multiple configurations including a 5-CD collector’s deluxe box set available only at Best Buy that will include a first-of-its-kind audio-only Blu-ray disc. The collector’s deluxe package will be in Best Buy stores on November 22, 2009. All other configurations will be in stores and available online on November 24, 2009.

The release of "The Live Anthology" comes on the heels of two sold out tours, the Grammy winning documentary "Runnin’ Down A Dream" (directed by Peter Bogdanovich), and a headline performance at the Super Bowl XLII halftime show. Now, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - one of rock and roll’s greatest touring bands – will mark their unparalleled string of successes with the release of this landmark collection of live recordings that is unlike anything previously available—the band’s story told through the music alone.

The producers made no fixes or overdubs, letting the newly-mixed original recordings showcase the invention, spontaneity, craft, and the musicianship that has made Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers among the most celebrated live performers of their time. Along with powerful interpretations of their own classic hits and originals, "The Live Anthology" features the band tackling some of their best-loved cover material, from classics to obscure beauties to unexpected adaptations. The theme from Goldfinger, the Zombies’ “I Want You Back Again,” the Grateful Dead’s “Friend of the Devil,” early Fleetwood Mac’s “Oh Well,” Booker T. and the MGs’ “Green Onions,” James Brown’s “Good, Good Lovin’” and many more. Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers travel wide, paying their musical debts through song and showing just how confidently the band moves across genres and over time.

The Live Anthology will be available in the following five configurations featuring artwork and packaging by renowned contemporary artist Shepard Fairey http://www.studionumberone.com/, http://www.obeygiant.com/
A deluxe box set available only at Best Buy featuring 62 tracks on 5 CDs PLUS
- Two previously unreleased DVDs including the 1978 New Year’s Eve concert from Santa Monica , CA and the Martyn Atkins documentary 400 Days shot during the recording and tour for Wildflowers.
- A re-mastered vinyl of the 1976 Official Live ‘Leg bootleg.
- A High Resolution Blu-ray Audio Disc featuring all 62 tracks in both stereo and 5.1 surround sound. This disc has 256 times more audio resolution than a CD.
- AND MORE (see details below).
A four CD set of 48 tracks
A 48 track digital album
A seven LP vinyl box set of 51 tracks mastered directly from the uncompressed 24-bit 96K files and pressed on 180-gram audiophile quality high performance vinyl.
The entirely unique Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers SuperHighway Tour (http://www.tompettysuperhighwaytour.com/)

The Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers SuperHighway Tour is a first of its kind, online-only music experience that delivers 24 of the 48 Live Anthology tracks as high-quality digital downloads and on-demand streams over 8 weeks in advance of the Live Anthology’s release. Ticketholders will receive an insider’s view of those 24 tracks, through archived memorabilia reproduced on the site, new band commentary, classic reviews, and curated content from the Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers vaults. Fans will also be able to share their photos and stories from their favorite Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers shows. Then on the album’s November 24th release, ticketholders will receive the remaining 24 tracks on The Live Anthology, thereby completing the digital album.

Access to the SuperHighway Tour will be available to fans that purchase tickets from Ticketmaster.com or through the Superhighway Tour box office. Tickets for the entire 8-week SuperHighway Tour go on sale September 29th at 10am EST/7am PST through Ticketmaster.com and TomPettySuperHighwayTour.com. The price of a SuperHighway Tour ticket includes all 48 The Live Anthology digital tracks plus the 8-week online experience for $24.98 without any additional service fees. Downloads will be available in 256kbps MP3 or FLAC formats - fan’s choice.

A FREE PREVIEW of the SuperHighway Tour also starts on September 29th at http://www.tompettysuperhighwaytour.com and includes a FREE DOWNLOAD of a track from the 1981 run of shows at Los Angeles’ Forum.

The Live Anthology Configurations:
Standard Set
48 tracks on 4 CDs plus booklet.

Deluxe Box Set- Available Only at Best Buy.
- 62 tracks on 5 CDs including 14 exclusive tracks on the 5th disc only available in the collector’s deluxe box set.
- DVD of 400 Days, a previously unreleased documentary film by director Martyn Atkins, made during the 1995 Wildflowers Tour.
- DVD of previously unreleased New Years Eve 1978 Santa Monica , CA concert.
- Vinyl of the re-mastered 1976 Official Live ‘Leg bootleg album.
- One Blu-ray disc of all 62 tracks in both stereo and surround sound. This high resolution Blu-ray is an audio only disc with basic song navigation and information displayed on the screen. The 96K 24-bit audio on the disc has 256 times more resolution than a CD providing greater detail and reproducing the music’s full dynamic range, from the softest to the loudest sounds.
- Deluxe book with liner notes offering personal perspective by Tom Petty, Warren Zanes, Bill Flanagan, Robert Hilburn, Joel Selvin, Austin Scaggs, and Phil Sutcliffe.
- Lithograph reproduction of Shepard Fairey Cover Art (12” x 12” on high quality stock)
- Reproduction of 1997 twenty night Fillmore stand concert poster (8” x 12” on high quality stock)
- The Live Anthology notebook.
- Assorted authentic vintage backstage satin passes.

Vinyl Deluxe Box Set
- 51 tracks mastered directly from the uncompressed 24-bit 96K files and pressed on 7 180-gram audiophile quality vinyl LPs.
- Deluxe book with liner notes offering personal perspective on the band and their music by Tom Petty, Warren Zanes, Bill Flanagan, Robert Hilburn, Joel Selvin, Austin Scaggs, and Phil Sutcliffe.

Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers SuperHighway Tour- A First-Of-Its-Kind Online-Only Music Experience
- The entire 48 track Live Anthology delivered digitally via TomPettySuperHighwayTour.com.

- 24 tracks from The Live Anthology will be delivered over a period of 8 weeks prior to the album’s release and the remaining 24 tracks will be delivered on the album’s street date of November 24th.
- The first 24 tracks include an insider’s online experience including new band commentary, archival memorabilia, vintage photos, videos, classic reviews from the shows, access to the SuperHighway Tour merchandise booth with limited edition authentic t-shirts, and even more vintage material.

U2: THE UNFORGETTABLE FIRE REMASTERED

How is this U2 fans? Two days after the Irish quartet performs at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, one of U2's greatest albums arrives in several remastered formats. Here is the news release! The links to Amazon.com are also provided so you can secure your advance orders now too.


U2: THE UNFORGETTABLE FIRE REMASTERED

“this ain’t mere genius, this is rock ‘n’ roll” - Kerrang, October 1984

U2’s fourth album, The Unforgettable Fire has been remastered and will be released by Mercury Records on October 27, 2009.

This special edition marks 25 years since the album's original release in October 1984. Recorded at Slane Castle, Ireland, The Unforgettable Fire was the first U2 album to be produced by Brian Eno and Danny Lanois, and spawned two top 10 UK singles – “Pride (In The Name Of Love)” and “The Unforgettable Fire.”

Special formats of The Unforgettable Fire will also feature bonus audio material, including two previously unheard tracks from the Slane Castle sessions: “Yoshino Blossom”, and “Disappearing Act” (a track which the band recently completed), and a DVD including music videos, a documentary and unreleased live footage from the Amnesty International Conspiracy of Hope Tour in 1986. The Unforgettable Fire has been remastered from the original audio tapes, with direction from The Edge.

The album will be available in four formats:

· Limited Edition Box Set: containing 2 CDs (remastered album and bonus audio CD), a DVD with live footage, documentary and videos, a 56 page hardback book with liner notes by The Edge, Brian Eno, Danny Lanois, Bert Van de Kamp and Niall Stokes, and 5 photographic prints

· Deluxe Edition: containing 2 CDs; the remastered album, and the bonus audio CD which features
B-sides and previously unreleased material, a 36 page booklet with liner notes by The Edge, Brian Eno, Danny Lanois and Bert Van de Kamp

· CD format: featuring the remastered album

· 12" vinyl format: 16 page booklet with liner notes by Brian Eno, Danny Lanois and Bert Van de Kamp

The Unforgettable Fire track listing is as follows: A Sort of Homecoming, Pride (In The Name Of Love), Wire, The Unforgettable Fire, Promenade, 4th Of July, Bad, Indian Summer Sky, Elvis Presley and America, MLK

The Zombies celebrate 40 years of 'Odessey and Oracle'

The Zombies are truly one of the great bands to come out of the 1960s. I wanted to share this news with all the other fans of this great band.

During March 2008, The Zombies performed their legendary 1968 psychedelic album Odessey and Oracle for the first time in 40 years since its original release.

The band played three consecutive sold out concerts at the London Shepherds Bush Empire. One of these nights was filmed for this DVD.

Mixed in 5.1 Surround Sound and boasting an exclusive 2008 filmed interview with the entire band, the live DVD lovingly documents the historic night when the original members of The Zombies reunited to perform the premiere of "Odessey & Oracle," preceded by a veritable banquet of Zombie connected material, from Argent hits to Colin Blunstone's string quintet material from his beautiful album "One Year."

The DVD begins with 8 tracks performed by The Zombies 'Touring Band', consisting of Rod Argent, Colin Blunstone, Jim and Steve Rodford, and Keith Airey, playing a collection of classic Zombies' tracks prior to 'Odessey...', songs from Rod's later band Argent as well as Colin Blunstone solo material, augmented by a string Quartet.

After a short interval the four remaining original members of The Zombies (Rod Argent, Colin Blunstone, Chris White, High Grundy) arrive on stage to perform landmark 1968 album Odessey & Oracle in all it's glory and, after an introduction from recording legend Al Kooper (The man responsible for Odessey's existence), kick off with 'Care of Cell 44', instantly letting you know you're in for a treat with it's beautifully escalating harmonies, excelling all expectations when experienced live. This is followed by many further highlights including the layered harmonies of 'Maybe After He's Gone' and 'Beechwood Park', the soaring vocals during 'Hung Up On A Dream' and an amazing performance of 'Time of the Season' heralds a standing ovation before they close with their much loved debut hit 'She's Not There'.

Track Listing:*

I Love You / Sticks and Stones / Can't Nobody Love You / What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted / Misty Roses / Her Song / Say You Don't Mind / Keep On Rolling / Hold Your Head Up / Care of Cell 44 / A Rose For Emily / Maybe After He's Gone / Beechwood Park / Brief Candles / Hung Up On A Dream / Changes / I Want Her, She Wants Me / This Will Be Our Year / Butchers Tale / Friends Of Mine / Time Of The Season / Tell Her No / She's Not There

Guitarist Marc Seal set to return to Coach House

Guitarist Marc Seal

This article was first posted on the Orange County Register Web site on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2009.

Throughout the 1970s, '80s and early '90s, several guitarists were celebrated for their virtuoso skills on the fretboard, including Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, Steve Morse and Eric Johnson.
The art of accomplished guitar playing is making a comeback, with Orange County's own Marc Seal helping to return strong musicianship to the foreground of popular music.

Seal, a musician and an instructor, will headline Saturday, Sept. 19, 2009 at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, where he recorded his concert album "Live at the Coach House" on May 21, 2005. "Live at the Coach House," released in September that year, is highlighted by "Strat Boogie," "Above the Clouds, Pt. 1" and "Running Alone."

In addition to his recordings and live performances, Seal has extended his influence via his "Ultimate Guitar Show," which appears three times a week on local cable channels throughout Southern California and on the Internet. The show has been viewed in more than 40 nations via the Web and features performances and appearances by other musicians, including Jason Mraz and Toby Lightman.

For more information on Marc Seal, visit his official Web site at www.marcseal.com. For more details about the show, visit www.thecoachhouse.com.

Jack's Mannequin-related documentary, 'Dear Jack,' set for release

Photo credit: James Minchin

Monday, September 14, 2009

DEAR JACK, THE LONG-AWAITED DOCUMENTARY FROM JACK’S MANNEQUIN FRONTMAN ANDREW MCMAHON, TO BE RELEASED ON NOVEMBER 3RD
FANS WHO PRE-ORDER VIA BAND’S WEBSITE BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 14TH WILL RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE CONTENTFILM WILL SCREEN THEATRICALLY IN NYC, L.A., AND CHICAGO IN OCTOBER

Burbank, CA – On November 3, 2009, Sire Records will release the DVD and digital download editions of "Dear Jack" — a deeply personal documentary made by Jack’s Mannequin frontman Andrew McMahon — that chronicles the year that McMahon, then 22, spent battling acute lymphoma leukemia while trying to release Jack’s Mannequin’s 2005 debut album "Everything in Transit."

"Dear Jack" chronicles Andrew McMahon on a rollercoaster year, through the highs of recording and releasing the first Jack's Mannequin album, and the lows of being diagnosed with leukemia and breaking up with the love of his life.

Using a DV camera Sire Records bought him to capture the making of his album, McMahon shot everything before and after that crucial day in May of 2005 when he both finished the project and was diagnosed with cancer.

Directed by filmmakers Cory Moss and Josh Morrisroe and narrated by Tommy Lee, this documentary is a raw look at the battle that is leukemia, from spinal taps to radiation, from using a lint brush to remove your hair to infusing your body with someone else's stem cells (in this case, Andrew's sister Kate).

"Dear Jack" is a breathtakingly emotional film as well as a testament to family, friends and, perhaps more than anyone will ever know, a love of making music.

The DVD of Dear Jack will be available for pre-order from Jack’s Mannequin’s website (http://www.jacksmannequin.com/) beginning September 14, 2009. Those who pre-order will get access to an exclusive newly recorded and previously unreleased track, “Swim (Music Box)" as an instant audio bonus, and an exclusive movie lithograph poster. Cost of this limited edition fan bundle will be $29.99. The film will also be available for digital download on iTunes.

Three theatrical screenings of Dear Jack will also be held for fans and press in October. The film will also be shown at the Landmark Theater in Chicago on October 8th, the IFC Theater in New York City on October 22nd, and a theater location yet to be confirmed in Los Angeles on October 28th. McMahon will hit the road for a solo tour, just him and a piano, in October to raise awareness about Dear Jack. Confirmed dates are listed below.

In other news, “Swim” — the second single and video from Jack’s Mannequin’s current album "The Glass Passenger" — can be seen and heard as one of the primary visuals in promo spots teasing the premiere of CBS’s new fall drama Three Rivers. A show about organ transplantation, Three Rivers deals with second chances, what you do with them, and who deserves them, according to executive producer Carol Barbee. “Swim,” a powerful, layered song about fighting for the goodness in life at all costs, dovetails perfectly with the show’s theme.

Andrew McMahon’s upcoming solo tour dates are as follows:

Sun Oct 4 Denver, CO Daniels Hall
Tue Oct 6 Minneapolis, MN Varsity Theater
Wed Oct 7 Chicago, IL Lakeshore Theater
Sat Oct 10 Newport, KY The Southgate House
Mon Oct 12 New York, NY Highline Ballroom
Wed Oct 14 Somerville, MA Arts at the Armory
Thur Oct 15 Philadelphia, PA World Café Live
Sun Oct 18 Washington, DC Sixth & I Synagogue
Mon Oct 19 New York, NY Bowery Ballroom
Sun Oct 25 San Francisco, CA Swedish American Hall
Tue Oct 27 Anaheim, CA House of Blues
Thur Oct 29 West Hollywood, CA Troubadour

As always, keep an eye on http://www.jacksmannequin.com/ for news, information, tour dates, Andrew’s blog, merch, and much more.

Dave Matthews Band wows crowd in Irvine

My concert review was originally posted on the Orange County Register Web site earlier today (Monday, Sept. 14, 2009).

There was so much to love about Dave Matthews Band’s incredible show Sunday night (Sept. 13, 2009) at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater. The 155-minute set undoubtedly ranks as one of the best gigs ever staged at the Irvine venue.

Touring in connection with the troupe’s most recent album, the excellent Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King, and coming on the heels of the group’s first shows at the Greek Theatre and a stop in Chula Vista, singer-guitarist Matthews and his six-man outfit performed most of songs off that release, as well as epic versions of material from earlier albums and an infectious cover of Talking Heads’ “Burning Down the House” that, well, brought down the house.
Long recognized as one of modern rock’s best live ensembles, the group has a surprisingly simple secret to its power. DMB’s lineup of regular members and touring players explode on stage without ever losing their sonic footing and, more importantly, without ever letting the song itself slip away.

Despite their individual virtuoso skills, there wasn’t a single moment when they didn’t play as a team. Extended drum solos tend to kill a performance, whereas Carter Beauford’s showcase enlivened the momentum of the night. Typically, a guitarist as skilled as Tim Reynolds can be a distraction when the nuances of a song are at odds with blazing fretwork. Yet, throughout performances of “Seven” and “Funny the Way It Is” early in the set and “Why I Am” later on, his superlative skills only enhanced the proceedings.
Saxophonist Jeff Coffin (like Reynolds, a touring member of the group) and violinist Boyd Tinsley had equally strong moments where their work shined across DMB’s 20-song set.

If there were any kind of common formula revealed on Sunday before an enthusiastic, near-capacity crowd at Verizon, it was how DMB might launch a song with an instrument or two positioned around Matthews’ emotive vocals. The song would then build to a blazing finish with plenty of impressive improvisation offering along the way. “Funny the Way It Is,” “So Damn Lucky” and “Squirm” were among many that flourished thanks to that approach.
However, the band occasionally proved that formula wrong. On the instantly charging “Why I Am” and night-ending “Ants Marching,” DMB put the pedal to the metal from the get-go.

Pity the fools who left the show early to beat the traffic.

San Diego rock quintet Switchfoot pleased the crowd with a set of solid modern-rock originals (notably the bluesy “Dirty Second Hands” and the hard-rocking “Meant to Live”) as well as a mostly faithful cover of Tom Petty’s “I Won’t Back Down.”

Set list: Dave Matthews Band at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Irvine, Sept. 13, 2009Main set: Bartender / Stay or Leave / Seven / Spaceman / Funny The Way It Is / So Damn Lucky / Everyday / Shake Me Like a Monkey / Alligator Pie / Burning Down the House / Jimi Thing / Why I Am / Squirm / Dancing Nancies / You And Me / Two Step

Encore: Baby Blue / Granny / Ants Marching

DAN FOGELBERG’S LAST SONGS FEATURED ON 'LOVE IN TIME'

Thursday, Sept. 10, 2009 Media Release:

The first song on his first album began with strings, sustaining a hauntingly beautiful chord which faded into the song "To The Morning;” a song of hope invoking the day with the lyric, "There is really nothing left to say but 'come on, morning.'" "Birds", the last song on this, his last studio album, ends with the lyric, "It's over," and a similar sustained chord, fading to end the album. Long time fans, upon hearing the final chord of "Birds”, have said they expected to hear "To The Morning" begin to play. And so the ending meets the beginning, “In a spiral never-ending”.

In 2006, Dan Fogelberg, the renowned singer-songwriter whose career spanned three decades and helped define introspective ballads and the acoustic-based rock music of the ‘70s and ‘80s, completed the recordings for an album he titled "Love In Time" and put them in a safe deposit box. Diagnosed with cancer two years earlier, he had not performed since, and asked his wife Jean to release the album after his death. Fogelberg, at age 56, passed away on December 16, 2007. Released digitally on August 13, 2009, which would’ve been Fogelberg’s 58th birthday, Love In Time (Full Moon/UMe) will finally be released physically to retail on September 22, 2009.

Filled with great melodies and heartfelt lyricism, "Love In Time" is lifted up by Fogelberg’s versatile voice; at times soft and angelic, at times gravely and bluesy. Both a reflection of his beginnings and a testament to where his talent had taken him, the project began in 2003, before his diagnosis. While compiling material for a CD of live recordings, Fogelberg came upon several rough demos he had made earlier in his career. Inspired to finish them, he worked on the songs until May 2004, when he was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer.

During his subsequent battle with cancer, he also recorded three completely new songs in 2005 -- “Come To The Harbor,” written in Maine on his boat while waiting for his wife Jean to join him for a harbor dance; “Sometimes A Song", a Valentine for Jean; and "Birds", which he dedicated to her. They joined “Soft Voice,” “So Many Changes,” “A Growing Time,” “The Colors Of Eve,” “Diamonds To Dust,” “Nature Of The Game,” “Days To Come” and the title track to round out "Love In Time," which Fogelberg produced, recorded, sequenced, and played all the instruments on. All of the tracks make their physical debuts on "Love In Time"; only “Sometimes A Song” has been previously released digitally, as a download on Valentine’s Day 2008 to benefit the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

"Love In Time" was preceded by 2003’s Full Circle, his first studio album of original songs since 1993’s River Of Souls. Celebrated by fans and acclaimed by critics, Full Circle was considered Fogelberg’s return to the artistic heights he had previously scaled.

The Peoria-born Fogelberg was performing in coffeehouses around the University of Illinois when he was discovered. His 1972 debut album, "Home Free," led to 1974’s Joe Walsh-produced "Souvenirs" and stardom. Each of his first eight albums earned at least gold, with "Souvenirs," "Nether Lands" (1977), "Phoenix" (1979) and "The Innocent Age" (1981) double platinum, and "Captured Angel" (1975) and "Twin Sons Of Different Mothers" (1978), featuring flutist Tim Weisberg, platinum. His 1982 "Greatest Hits" album went triple platinum.

He kicked off a string of 11 Top 40 Pop hits (four Top 10s) with “Part Of The Plan” and “The Power Of Gold,” and included eight straight Adult Contemporary Top 10s among them, starting with the wedding standard “Longer” (#1/#2 Pop), and continuing with “Heart Hotels,” “Same Old Lang Syne,” “Hard To Say,” “Leader Of The Band” (#1), “Run For The Roses,” “Missing You” and “Make Love Stay” (#1). Fogelberg later scored four other AC Top 10s, including the #1 “Believe In Me.”

With "Love In Time," as his wife Jean has written: “His music continues-- a living legacy to one of the most versatile and talented musicians, singers, and songwriters of his generation.”

"In a spiral never-ending are we drawn toward the source Spinning at the mercy of an unrelenting force So we stare into the emptiness and fall beneath the weight Circling the Nexus in a fevered dance with fate Wealthy the spirit that knows its own flight Stealthy the hunter who slays his own fright Blessed the traveler who journeys the length of the light"

From the song, "Nexus" by Dan Fogelberg.

'Rock a Little, Feed a Lot' benefit concert set for Sept. 29

SHERYL CROW, BEN HARPER, BENJI & JOEL MADDEN, and JONNY LANG ANNOUNCED TO PERFORM AT FEEDING AMERICA ’S “ ROCK A LITTLE, FEED A LOT ” CONCERT SEPTEMBER 29, 2009

“Rock a Little, Feed a Lot” Concert to Raise Awareness About Domestic Hunger

CHICAGO (September 2, 2009) – Feeding America is pleased to announce that Grammy Award-winning artist Sheryl Crow, Grammy Award-winning artist Ben Harper, Benji and Joel Madden of Good Charlotte, and Grammy Award-winning artist Jonny Lang will all perform at the “Rock a Little, Feed a Lot” concert on Tuesday, September 29th at Club Nokia in Los Angeles, a special concert being held during Hunger Action Month (September) to help raise awareness and funds for the 35 million people who are at risk of hunger in America. Tickets for “Rock a Little, Feed a Lot ” are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.

Celebs confirmed to be a part of the event include David Arquette, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, and others. Adam Shankman, producer and director of “Step Up,” “Hairspray,” “Bringing Down the House,” and “17 Again” is directing the event. Proceeds of the concert will go to the Los Angeles Regional Foodbank and Feeding America.

“It is so important for everyone across the country to dare to be conscious and aware of the struggles of those around them—even if those struggles are not the same as their own. Feeding America does just that, and it’s a great privilege for me to unite with them in their cause,” said Crow.

“Rock a Little, Feed a Lot ” is one of many initiatives in the works for Feeding America’s Hunger Action Month and will benefit both Feeding America and its local member, the Los Angeles Regional Foodbank. Hunger Action Month, formed to help those in need, bloomed from a day of service into a month-long campaign as the economy has taken a turn for the worse and the demand for food assistance has increased.

“Many Americans are unaware of the great demand for food assistance throughout the country. The need for food assistance nationwide has increased 30 percent throughout the last year and in many communities the increase is much higher,” said Vicki Escarra, president and CEO of Feeding America. “We are excited to team up with so many talented artists to shed light on Hunger Action Month and the issue of hunger in America .”

“We are so grateful for the generous support of these artists -- and residents of Los Angeles -- for their time and efforts to raise awareness about hunger in America ,” said Michael Flood, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Regional Foodbank. “The agencies we serve are experiencing unprecedented demand for food assistance and this event will help shine the bright spotlight of the entertainment community on the issue of hunger in America .”

To take part or learn what is going on in your community during Hunger Action Month, please visit: www.FeedingAmerica.org

About the Los Angeles Area Foodbank
The Los Angeles Regional Foodbank is a non-profit, charitable organization established in 1973 and is one of the largest food banks in the United States . Through a network of 900 charitable agency sites, the Foodbank distributes more than 1 million pounds of food every week in Los Angeles County . The Foodbank is affiliated with Feeding America. For more information, visit www.lafoodbank.org.

About Feeding America
Feeding America is the nation's largest domestic hunger-relief organization. Our mission is to feed hungry Americans through a nationwide network of 205 food banks and engage our country in the fight to end hunger. Each year Feeding America provides food assistance to more than 25 million people, including 9 million children and 3 million seniors, distributing more than 2 billion pounds of donated food annually. The Feeding America network supports approximately 63,000 local agencies including food pantries, soup kitchens, emergency shelters, after-school programs, Kids Cafes and Backpack Programs.

Walter Trout to headline benefit for Guitar Doctor

This email was sent to me earlier this week and I am sorry I didn't get it posted sooner. If you are a fan of singer-songwriter-guitarist Walter Trout, Social Distortion or just into helping out a great guy, read on:

"Hey Robert I was given your contact info from Walter Trout's publicist. I want to inform you about the benefit for The Guitar Doctor that Walter will be performing at on Saturday night, Sept. 5th at The Galaxy Theater.
You may have heard about the accident at the Guitar Doctor shop in Fountain Valley on July 25th. An illegal alien with no drivers license drove his Astro van through the front of the shop, nearly killing the Doc and damaging a lot of vintage instruments, and a few customers' instruments. Lots of twisted metal and broken glass, and a tremendous disruption in business.
Walter and Doc have been friends for 30 years, and Walter has been so gracious as to give up his time to play a benefit show for his friend. Unfortunately, our notice of the Galaxy becoming available was so quick, that I have not had nearly enough time to advertise the event. I know you have written about Walter in the past, and your paper (Orange County Register) did a story on the accident. I just want to get the word out about this appearance so as to make it as successful as possible." Stacy Walker

All the information is on the flyer published on this post too. Or check out www.GalaxyTheatre.com for more details.

'Sgt. Pepper Live' is returning to the stage

No doubt, the Hollywood Bowl show where I saw Cheap Trick and a number of guests perform The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" in 2007 was one of my most memorable concert-going experiences. It ranks with unforgettable shows by U2, Paul McCartney, Coldplay and Bruce Springsteen where I have simply been blown away.

If you couldn't make one of those shows (if memory serves me well, Cheap Trick offered another performance of the Beatles' classic album last year too), make plans to go to Las Vegas next month!

"Sgt. Pepper Live" Featuring Cheap Trick at the Las Vegas Hilton Announces Special Guest Artists Joan Osborne, Ian Ball and Rob Laufer

More Guest Artists to Be Announced in Coming Weeks

"Sgt. Pepper Live" featuring Cheap Trick will be performing an exclusive engagement Sept. 13-15, 17-19 and 21-23 at the Las Vegas Hilton, joined on stage by special guest artists Joan Osborne, Ian Ball and Rob Laufer. The Bill Edwards Presents, Inc. production will also feature several other guest artists who will be announced closer to the show dates.

Joan Osborne's major label debut, "Relish," stormed the charts in 1995 with the runaway smash hit "(What If God Was) One of Us." The whirlwind that followed included a top five hit, multi-platinum album sales, five Grammy nominations and "(What If God Was) One of Us" was tapped a decade later for the critically acclaimed CBS series "Joan of Arcadia." Since then Osborne has recorded numerous albums, performed with artists such as Taj Mahal, Luciano Pavarotti, Spearhead, Bob Dylan, The Dixie Chicks and sat in on lead vocals with The Dead (formerly The Grateful Dead). Osborne also joined Cheap Trick on stage during the 2007 40th anniversary celebration of "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." Her most recent album, "Little Wild One," was released in 2008.

As one of the principal singer/songwriters in the acclaimed British rock band Gomez, Ian Ball has shared in the band's great success since inception, including the UK's prestigious Mercury Music Prize for the group's 1998 debut album. Gomez earned its biggest U.S. commercial and critical success with the 2006 album "How We Operate," featuring the hits "See The World" and the album's title track. In October 2007, Ball released his solo debut "Who Goes There," which began as a spontaneous jam session and turned into a full length album. That same year, Ball was a guest performer at the Hollywood Bowl's 40th anniversary celebration of the "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." Earlier this year Ball completed another successful Gomez album titled "A New Tide."

Rob Laufer has written songs for and performed with numerous prominent artists including Johnny Cash, Frank Black, Fiona Apple, George Martin, BB King, Peter Noone and Shawn Colvin, among others. He released two critically acclaimed albums in the mid '90s, and his latest release, "The Iron Age," contains the song "In the Frame," which was used in Hewlett-Packard's award-winning "Frames" television campaign. Additionally, Laufer was the featured vocalist at the 1999 Hollywood Bowl Tribute to the Beatles with George Martin and also performed in the 2007 40th anniversary celebration of "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band."

Cheap Trick is best known for its classic singles, "I Want You To Want Me" and "Surrender." The American power-pop progenitors recorded the album, "All Shook Up," in 1980 with Sir George Martin and Geoff Emerick, producer and engineer of "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." Emerick will continue to be in charge of the audio production for "Sgt. Pepper Live." He received Grammy Awards for the engineering of "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" and "Abbey Road."

Tickets for "Sgt. Pepper Live" featuring Cheap Trick, Sept. 13-15, 17-19 and 21-23 (all at 8 p.m.) are priced at $65, $80 and $95 plus tax and fees. Tickets can be purchased at the Las Vegas Hilton box office or by logging onto www.lvhilton.com, www.vegas.com, www.ticketmaster.com or phone at 702-732-5755 or 1-800-222-5361. For more information on "Sgt. Pepper Live" featuring Cheap Trick, please visit www.LVHilton.com, www.CheapTrick.com or www.BillEdwardsPresents.com.