2023 Rock Music-Minded Gift Guide

With Hanukkah here and Christmas just a couple of weeks away, here is a music-related gift guide featuring a diverse crop of special reissues, box sets, new albums and more.

Artist: Bryan Adams 
Titles: Live At The Royal Albert Hall (BMG)

Tell me more: Bryan Adams' new live box set Live At The Royal Albert Hall is available on audio CD + LP with a bonus Blu-ray DVD; the title includes a three album box set of live concerts captured in 2022 when the acclaimed rocker headlined three memorable nights at the legendary venue. At each night, Adams performed one of his classic albums in its entirety: Cuts Like A Knife (Night 1), Into The Fire (Night 2) and Waking Up The Neighbours (Night 3). Live At The Royal Albert Hall includes a total of 35 live songs, a Blu-ray DVD of all the performances, as well as a 32-page photo book featuring exclusive images from the performances. Information: BryanAdams.com.

Artist: The Beach Boys 
Titles: Pet Sounds; The Beach Boys' Christmas Album (Capitol)

Tell me more: The Beach Boys' classic albums Pet Sounds and The Beach Boys' Christmas Album have been released via limited edition color vinyl for the holidays. The beloved group's 1964 Christmas Album (which features enduring classics like "Little Saint Nick," "The Man With All The Toys," "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" and "The Man With All The Toys") is available in the colors of Christmas - fans can purchase the the album on limited edition translucent ruby red vinyl or limited edition green vinyl. Pet Sounds is now available on limited edition yellow/green splatter vinyl which matches the iconic album cover's unmistakable color scheme. The pressing, which is numbered and features a deluxe tip-on jacket is exclusive to TheBeachBoys.com, uDiscover Music  and Sound Of Vinyl. Information: TheBeachBoys.com.

Artist: The Beatles 
Titles: 1962-1966 "The Red Album"' 1967-1970 "The Blue Album" (Apple Corps Ltd./Capitol/Universal Music Enterprises)

Tell me more: Artist: The Beatles 

Titles: 1962-1966 "The Red Album"' 1967-1970 "The Blue Album" (Apple Corps Ltd./Capitol/Universal Music Enterprises)

Tell me more: In the wake of the release of The Beatles' final song ("Now and Then"), 50th Anniversary Editions of the band's 1962-1966 "The Red Album" and 1967-1970 "The Blue Album" collections were issued. The 2023 editions have expanded tracklists, with all the songs mixed in true stereo and Dolby Atmos. The new 4CD and 180-gram 6LP vinyl collections pair "Red" and "Blue" in slipcased sets.The UK single version of "Love Me Do" now kicks off 1962-1966, while the hit single "Now and Then" is featured on 1967-1970. In recent years, several 1967-1970 tracks and a few from 1962-1966 have received new stereo and Dolby Atmos mixes for The Beatles’ Special Edition album releases, including Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (2017), The Beatles (‘White Album’) (2018), Abbey Road (2019), Let It Be (2021), and Revolver (2022), as well as new stereo mixes for The Beatles’ 1 (2015). All tracks not also featured on those releases have been newly mixed in stereo and/or Dolby Atmos by Giles Martin and Sam Okell at Abbey Road Studios, aided by WingNut Films’ audio de-mixing technology. Both collections include new essays written by journalist and author John Harris. Together, the expanded 2023 Edition collections include 75 Beatles tracks. Information: TheBeatles.com.

Artist: Devo 
Titles: 50 Years of De-Evolution: 1973-2023 (Rhino)

Tell me more: Devo's pioneering legacy is celebrated across the expansive 4LP deluxe limited-edition 50 Years of De-Evolution box set. Loaded with 50 remastered hits and rarities, an album artwork lithograph, air freshener, a foldable paper hat that resembles the band's iconic red energy dome and a 28-page book, "this box set represents a great cost section of early experiments and later creations" says band member Mark Mothersbaugh. Information: Rhino.com.

Artist: Social Distortion

Title: Mommy's Little Monster (Craft Recordings)

Tell me more: Craft Recordings' 40th Anniversary reissue of Social Distortion's fiery debut Mommy's Little Monster is a must-have for fans of the groundbreaking Southern California punk rock outfit. Released on Nov. 10 on 180-gram vinyl and digital formats, the album has been newly remastered from the original analog tapes that were recorded on Christmas Eve in 1982 at The Casbah recording studios in Fullerton, CA. The album features several of Social Distortion's early standout tracks including the blistering title track, hard-edged "The Creeps (I Just Wanna Give You)," and hardcore-styled single "Another State of Mind." In addition to classic black vinyl, Mommy's Little Monster is available in a variety of exclusive limited edition color ways, including ruby red, black & white marble, an exclusive white pressing at Barnes & Noble, and a gray variant at RevolverMag.com. Information: CraftRecordings.com.

Artist: Toad the Wet Sprocket 
Titles: All You Want - Bonus Edition (Abe's Records)

Tell me more: Acclaimed modern rock outfit Toad the Wet Sprocket' 2011 greatest hits collection All You Want has been reissued on both audio CD and vinyl as an expanded limited edition bonus edition available via the band's official website. All the California band's essential hits are here (including "Something's Always Wrong," "Fall Down," "Good Intentions" and "Walk on the Ocean"), as well as some of the troupe's other top-tier tracks including "New Constellation," "Crazy Life," "Brother" and the enticing new 2023 original "Best of Me." Information: ToadTheWetSprocket.com.

Artist: Violent Femmes 
Titles: Violent Femmes — 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition (Craft Recordings)

Tell me more: Violent Femmes' 1983 eponymous album is one of the great full-length debuts of all time. Now the masterwork has been reissued as a deluxe and expanded reissue that includes the remastered original album as well as a slew of rare demos, B-sides, live performances and more. Released on Dec. 1, the deluxe 2CD and digital formats feature newly remastered audio and more than a dozen demos, B-sides and live performances — including alternate versions of favorites like "Blister in the Sun," "Please Do Not Go," "Gone Daddy Gone" and "Add It Up." A special 4-disc vinyl box set is set to arrive on Feb. 9, 202, and that is limited to only 5,000 copies worldwide! Housed in a lift-top box with die-cut window detail, this collectible edition offers three 180-gram LPs — the original album alongside demos and live material (plus, a replica 7-inch single featuring "Ugly"/"Gimme the Car." The original album and single discs are cut from the original analog tapes, while lacquers for the complete set were cut by Kevin Gray at Coherent Audio. Both the CD and LP editions feature an expansive book with new liner notes by journalist/Rolling Stone senior editor David Fricke, complete with interviews with Violent Femmes members Gordon Gano, Brian Ritchie and Victor DeLorenzo. Information: CraftRecordings.com.

Artist: The Who 
Title: Who's Next/Life House (Universal Music Recordings)

Tell me more: One of this writer's all-time favorite albums, The Who's fifth studio album Who's Next is available as a super deluxe 10-CD/Blu-ray audio edition for the ultimate immersive dive into the 1971 masterwork. Who's Next/Life House includes 155 tracks (89 previously unreleased) and 57 new remixes; long time Who engineer Jon Astley remastered the original tapes while Steven Wilson completed Atmos and 5.1 surround mixes for the Blu-ray audio disc. Included are demos, singles, studio sessions, two complete concerts, a 100-page hardback book with new liner notes and more. Please note: as the date of this writing, the expansive reissue is currently selling for $285.75 on amazon.com.

Artist: Neil Young 
Title: Before and After (Reprise)

Tell me more: Neil Young's 45th studio album Before and After continues to find the groundbreaking artist revisiting 13 of his beloved classics via solo acoustic versions delivered via a decidedly new approach. According to a news release, Young performs the songs via "one continuous flow."

"Picking from a vast array of his originals, Young chooses favorites from his playbook like a trip into his music history and performs them mostly alone taking a solo acoustic journey to a new place. Each of the songs blend and create one continuous flow, clocking in at a 48-minute pure and intimate listening experience." Songs featured on Before and After include "Comes A Time," "Mr. Soul," "Birds," "I'm The Ocean" and "Mother Earth." Information: neilyoungarchives.com.

Robert Kinsler

Social Distortion postpone Summer Tour

Here is an important update on Mike Ness and Social Distortion announced this morning. My thoughts and prayers go out to Mike Ness during this difficult time and I hope he makes a complete and quick recovery. Read my review of Social Distortion's memorable concert staged at House of Blues Anaheim on November 19, 2007 HERE...Robert Kinsler

Mike Ness of Social Distortion performing at Verizon
Wireless Amphitheater in Orange County, CA in October 2011.
Photo credit: Kelly A. Swift

Today, legendary OC punks Social Distortion announce that they have postponed their upcoming North American headlining tour due to the stage-one tonsil cancer diagnosis of vocalist Mike Ness. As he recovers from a recent surgery, the band is also temporarily halting the recording process of their eighth studio album. The previously announced tour, set to kick off on June 30th with support from fellow California rockers The Bellrays, is now being rescheduled for future dates. Check out the emotional statement from Ness below: 

“We think that life is going to go according to our plan, but it has a way of saying “I don’t think so!” 

In the midst of pre-production, I was diagnosed with stage one tonsil cancer. I was feeling well enough to continue with recording in the studio up until the very day before surgery.  The band and I were so inspired and excited to lay down these tracks, which by the way sound f-ing AWESOME!   

The recovery from surgery is a day-by-day process and in three weeks we start radiation and that should be the last therapy I need.  The team of doctors are certain that once finished with this course, I will be able to start the healing and recovery process.  We expect a full recovery enabling me to live a long and productive life.   

It breaks my heart to post pone tours, and this album release, but time is required to heal. I can’t thank our loyal fans enough who have been waiting so patiently for this. While it will take a little longer-I promise you that it will be delivered and it will exceed your expectations.  

I want you all to know that this has opened my eyes to a whole new struggle.  I know it’s one that many of you or your loved ones have personally endured, and my heart goes out to you-because I now know what it’s like from this heavy experience.   

I’m surrounded by love and support from my friends and family ESPECIALLY my lovely wife and incredible boys (oh and don’t forget my 3 dogs and kitty)  THANK YOU ALL in advance to our unbelievable fans for YOUR love and support right now.  ♥️ 

We WILL get through this….” 

Mike Ness performing at House of Blues Anaheim
 in November 2007.
Photo credit: Joshua Sudock

Formed as rebellious teenage punks in the working-class suburb of Fullerton, California, Social Distortion survived their tumultuous youth to pioneer an undeniably honest and fiery brand of rock ‘n’ roll that would incorporate outlaw country, classic seventies punk and primal blues. Seven studio albums and countless electrifying live shows have earned the band a dedicated worldwide fanbase and catalog of timeless anthems including “Story Of My Life,” ”Ball And Chain,” “Prison Bound” and more. The band's last release, Hard Times and Nursery Rhymes entered the Billboard 200 at #4 and in 2019 they celebrated 40 years as a band. 

For More Info On Social Distortion Visit: 

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TWITTER 

Sights and Sounds: 'Chuck Berry: Hail! Hail! Rock 'N' Roll,' Social Distortion, Flying Colors

Some pretty exciting news today...

'Chuck Berry: Hail! Hail! Rock 'N' Roll' (Collector's Edition) available on Blu-ray for the First Time on November 19, 2019 from Shout! Factory

Shout! Factory pays homage to a legend with the November 19 Shout Select release of Chuck Berry: Hail! Hail! Rock ‘N’ Roll (Collector’s Edition) on DVD, and for the first time ever, on Blu-ray™.

The unforgettable life and music of legendary rock pioneer Chuck Berry are celebrated in this landmark feature film, capturing a once-in-a-lifetime gathering of rock ‘n’ roll’s finest! In 1986, Keith Richards invited a roster of brilliant musicians to honor Chuck Berry for an evening of music to commemorate Berry’s 60^th birthday, including performances by Eric Clapton, Robert Cray, Linda Ronstadt, Etta James, and Julian Lennon, along with archival footage of an unforgettable duet by Chuck and John Lennon! 

This dynamite crowd pleaser from director Taylor Hackford (Ray, Against All Odds), and Stephanie Bennett, producer of Chuck Berry: Hail! Hail! Rock ‘N’ Roll and author of the new book Johnny B. Bad: Chuck Berry and the Making of Hail! Hail! Rock ‘N’ Roll, will keep your toes tapping and your soul rocking all night long!

Special Features Include:

• Introduction by director Taylor Hackford
• 54 minutes of rehearsal footage
• The Reluctant Movie Star making-of documentary
• Trailer
• Witnesses to History documentary Parts 1 & 2
• "Chuckisms" - a collection of classic Chuck Berry remarks
• "The Burnt Scrapbook" - Chuck Berry reminisces over his musical memories with The Band’s Robbie Robertson

Craft Recordings to reissue three classic Social Distortion albums on vinyl on September 27, 2019

INCLUDING:

1983 DEBUT MOMMY'S LITTLE MONSTER,

2004’S SEX, LOVE AND ROCK 'N' ROLL,

AND RARITIES COLLECTION MAINLINER (WRECKAGE FROM THE PAST)

PUNK LEGENDS JUST LAUNCHED EXTENSIVE NORTH AMERICAN TOUR

This fall, Craft Recordings will reissue three titles from Social Distortion’s independent catalog on vinyl. Set for a September 27^th release, the LPs include the band’s 1983 debut, Mommy’s Little Monster, their 2004 studio album, Sex, Love and Rock ‘n’ Roll, and 1995's Mainliner (Wreckage From the Past), which compiles early singles and rare B-sides. Celebrating their 40^th anniversary this year, the enduring So-Cal punk icons just kicked off their extensive, two-month North American tour with Flogging Molly yesterday (8/13) in Dallas (full tour itinerary below).

Click to pre-order Mommy’s Little Monster, Sex, Love and Rock ‘N’ Roll, and Mainliner (Wreckage from the Past). Limited edition color variants also available via the official Social Distortion web store.

Social Distortion formed in Orange County, CA, with front man Mike Ness and guitarist Dennis Danell at the helm. With their distinctive blend of punk and primitive rock ‘n’ roll, the four-piece (whose bassists and drummers would fluctuate over those years) found equal influences in bands like the Sex Pistols, the Ramones, and the Clash as well as the early country music of Hank Williams and the classic blues of artists like Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf and Lightnin’ Hopkins. Their 1983 debut, Mommy’s Little Monster was released on the band’s own label,13^th Floor Records. Full of raw vocals, powerful guitar-driven hooks, and plenty of attitude, the seminal album gained Social Distortion a national following and went on to inspire the likes of the Offspring, Rancid and many other well-known artists. Standout tracks include “The Creeps (I Just Wanna Give You)” and “Another State of Mind.”

The next two decades would bring the band continued lineup changes, a rehab stint for Ness—who has maintained his sobriety since 1985—a major label deal, some of their highest-charting singles (“I Was Wrong” and “Bad Luck”), and two Gold records (for 1990’s Social Distortion and 1992’s Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell). In the late ‘90s, the band returned to their indie roots and signed to Time Bomb Recordings.

2004’s much-anticipated Sex, Love and Rock ‘n’ Roll marked the group’s first studio album in eight years, following 1996’s White Light, White Heat, White Trash and two solo records from Ness. The band had also taken time to refocus after the sudden death of founding member Dennis Danell at just 38. Sex, Love and Rock ‘n’ Roll found a grieving Ness looking inward, but it also produced some of the band’s most acclaimed material. AllMusic called it “Potent, hard-hitting rock & roll with real heart and soul behind it.” Adding that Social Distortion had “Held onto what made them great while growing and changing in the best ways, and the result is one of the best albums this band has made to date.” Highlights include the opening track, “Reach for the Sky,” which became one of the band’s biggest hits, as well as the introspective "Live Before You Die," and the hopeful "Don't Take Me For Granted," written for Danell. Sex, Love and Rock ‘n’ Roll also featured a new guitarist, Jonny “Two Bags” Wickersham, who remains with Social Distortion today.

The final reissue, Mainliner: Wreckage From the Past, offers Social Distortion’s earliest singles and B-sides from 1981, the majority of which never appeared on any of the band’s full-length albums. Released in 1995, the compilation gives fans a peek into the group’s creative development, when they were still teenagers, with fan favorites like “1945,” “All the Answers,” and “Moral Threat,” plus a cover of the Rolling Stones’ “Under My Thumb.”

With a current lineup of Mike Ness on vocals, guitarist Jonny “Two Bags” Wickersham,bassist Brent Harding, and Dave Hidalgo Jr. on drums, Social Distortion shows no sign of slowing down. With seven studio albums under their belt, the punk godfathers’ searing guitars and locomotive rhythm section sound as alive today as they did in the early ‘80s, as do Ness’ hard-luck tales of love, loss, and lessons learned. As Craft continues to celebrate the band’s immense 40-year (to date) legacy, stay tuned for more announcements coming soon.

Track Listings:

Mommy’s Little Monster

A1. The Creeps

A2. Another State of Mind

A3. It Wasn't A Pretty Picture

A4. Telling Them

B1. Hour Of Darkness

B2. Mommy's Little Monster

B3. Anti-Fashion

B4. All The Answers

B5. Moral Threat

Sex, Love And Rock ‘N’ Roll

A1. Reach For The Sky

A2. Highway 101

A3. Don't Take Me For Granted

A4. Footprints On My Ceiling

A5. Nickels And Dimes

B1. I Wasn't Born To Follow

B2. Winner And Losers

B3. Faithless

B4. Live Before You Die

B5. Angel's Wings

Mainliner (Wreckage From The Past)

A1. 1945 - Posh Boy Version

A2. Playpen - Posh Boy Version

A3. Mainliner            

A4. Moral Threat    

A5. All The Answers              

B1. Justice For All  

B2. Under My Thumb            

B3. 1945 - 13th Floor Version

B4. Playpen - 13th Floor Version

B5. Mass Hysteria 

2019 Tour Dates

Tues, August 13: Dallas, TX @ The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory

Wed, August 14: Houston, TX @ Revention Music Center

Fri, August 16: Orlando, FL @ Orlando Amphitheater

Sat, August 17: Atlanta, GA @ Coca-Cola Roxy

Sun, August 18: Raleigh, NC @ Red Hat Amphitheater

Tue, August 20: Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE

Wed, August 21: Baltimore, MD @ MECU Pavilion

Fri, August 23: Virginia Beach, VA @ Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

Sat, August 24: Philadelphia, PA @ The Met Philadelphia

Sun, August 25: New York, NY @ The Rooftop at Pier 17

Tue, August 27: Buffalo, NY @ Canalside

Wed, August 28: Boston, MA @ Rockland Trust Bank Pavilion

Fri, August 30: Westbrook, ME @ Maine Savings Pavilion at Rock Row

Sat, August 31: Asbury Park, NJ @ Stone Pony Summer Stage

Sun, September 1: Lancaster, PA @ Freedom Hall

Tue, September 3: Toronto, Canada @ RBC Echo Beach

Wed, September 4: Cleveland, OH @ Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica

Fri, September 6: Detroit, MI @ Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill

Sat, September 7: Chicago, IL @ Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island

Sun, September 8: Minneapolis, MN @ The Armory

Tue, September 10: Des Moines, IA @ Water Works Park

Wed, September 11: Council Bluffs, IA @ Harrah’s Stir Cove

Fri, September 13: Denver, CO @ Mission Ballroom

Sat, September 14: Denver, CO @ Mission Ballroom

Tue, September 17: Bonner, MT @ KettleHouse Amphitheater

Wed, September 18: Nampa, ID @ Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater

Fri, September 20: Portland, OR @ Veterans Memorial Coliseum

Sat, September 21: Seattle, WA @ WaMu Theater

Sun, September 22: Eugene, OR @ Cuthbert Amphitheater

Tue, September 24: Sacramento, CA @ Papa Murphy's Park

Thu, September 26: Berkeley, CA @ Greek Theatre At UC Berkeley

Fri, September 27: Paso Robles, CA @ Vina Robles Amphitheatre

Sat, September 28: Las Vegas, NV @ Downtown Las Vegas Events Center - DLVEC

Sun, September 29: Mesa, AZ @ Mesa Amphitheatre

Flying Colors and Music Theory Recordings / Mascot Label Group announce global release of new studio album 'Third Degree' on October 4, 2019

 

View Lead Video “More” Here: https://youtu.be/gNEW042p0CM

Pre-Order Live Here: https://smarturl.it/Flying-Colors

 

BAND WILL TOUR IN SUPPORT OF UPCOMING RELEASE WITH 

APPEARANCES PLANNED IN BOTH THE UNITED STATES AND EUROPE

 

New York, NY --- Music Theory Recordings / Mascot Label Group and Flying Colors have announced the global release of the band’s third studio album THIRD DEGREE on October 4.  The band’s self-titled debut launched a career that has had fans across The World anticipating the magic that emanates from the studio each and every time the five members reconvene. That title was released on March 26, 2012 and was celebrated on both sides of the Atlantic with a Top Ten debut on the Billboard Hard Rock chart, alongside an entry at #11 on the BBC’s Rock Album chart.  SECOND NATURE followed in September, 2014 and was celebrated worldwide. Third Degree will be available as a CD Digipack, limited edition 2LP 180 gram blue vinyl in a gatefold sleeve (w/ download card), a 2LP 180 gram black vinyl in a gatefold sleeve (w/ download card), and a limited edition box set featuring CD, 40 page photobook, two coasters, and a bonus disc with six tracks.

 

In chemistry, when certain galvanizing elements come together, they become quite explosive. In music, when certain galvanizing artists come together, they become Flying Colors. In fact, whenever the five gentlemen who encompass Flying Colors — guitarist Steve Morse (Deep Purple, Dixie Dregs, ex-Kansas), drummer Mike Portnoy (Winery Dogs, ex-Dream Theater, Transatlantic), keyboardist/vocalist Neal Morse (Transatlantic, ex-Spock’s Beard, and a prolific solo artist in his own right), bassist Dave LaRue (Dixie Dregs, ex-Joe Satriani), and powerhouse vocalist and songwriter Casey McPherson (Alpha Rev, The Sea Within) — are able to conjoin their collective talents, the result is a sweet sonic bouillabaisse that reflects where their inherent mastery of melody intersects with top-shelf progressive musicianship.

 

And now, Flying Colors soar to even loftier heights with Third Degree, their third studio album in a decade.  Third Degreebuilds upon the genre-bending momentum of 2012’s self-titled Flying Colorsand the aural-template ascension of 2014’s Second Nature. From the skittery psychedelic/classical turnaround of the lead single “More” to the Beach Boys-meet-Asia vibe of “Love Letter” to the deep emotionality of the album-ending, prog-leaning epic “Crawl,” the nine tracks that comprise Third Degreesignify just how much Flying Colors are willing to explore new frontiers. “There’s a lot of ear candy sprinkled throughout every song,” observes Mike Portnoy, “and each one takes you on a little journey. As albums go, Third Degreeis a complete piece that I don’t think ever overstays its welcome. I think it’s an enjoyable ride from start to finish.”

 

Third Degree continues to build upon the deep-rooted musical connection the members of Flying Colors established on their first two boundary-stretching albums. “There’s a real special chemistry between the five of us,” Portnoy confirms. “We keep getting better and better as we get more comfortable and more familiar with each other, and the music itself keeps getting more and more mature.” Adds Steve Morse, “This one, dare I say it, explores new ground for the band. One of my favorites, ‘Geronimo,’ has an upbeat, jazzy, heavy, melodic feel all at once. We just do what makes us smile and sounds good, instead of wondering how critics or program directors will like it. It makes for the best music!”

 

Casey McPherson concurs with his fellow bandmates by noting, “What Third Degreereally proves to me is that we have our own sound. There are no egos in this band, and we all want the best parts to come out, which is such a joy for me to participate in. I think that really allows people’s uniqueness to show through.” In other words, when five individual musical elements become one, good things inevitably happen. Clarifies Portnoy, “When prog guys like Neal and me join instrumental guys like Steve and Dave, with Casey being the glue in the middle, we’re able to write music that is not only incredibly musical, but also incredibly accessible and melodic.” 

 

That said, Third Degreedid not come effortlessly, nor too quickly. “It took time — but that’s the thing with Flying Colors,” Portnoy admits. “It’s very hard to get the five of us in the same room at the same time. But once we do, it flows so easily.” The first sessions for Third Degreetook place at Steve Morse’s studio in Florida in December 2016, wherein seven songs were written. From there, the bandmembers had to scatter back to their other personal and professional obligations, eventually reconvening two full years later in December 2018, when three more tracks were added to the overall Third Degreemix. (The tenth track, “Waiting for the Sun,” will be made available in forthcoming special editions.)

 

At this point, Portnoy deployed to Neal Morse’s Nashville studio to cut his drum tracks, while Neal and Casey often got together on Skype, as they’ve done in the past, to hone the lyrics. “Casey and Neal bring incredible levels of humanity and emotion to the lyrics,” admires Portnoy. For his part, McPherson marvels at Neal’s harmonic talents: “That’s really Neal’s brilliance — his ability to stylistically approach harmonies in so many different ways. It just blows my mind every time. It’s like Christmas for me whenever I get Neal’s harmony tracks!” Not only that, but the three-part harmonies between Casey, Neal, and Mike — a hallmark of many a Flying Colors track — again shine through on Third Degree. “It’s an important element of what we do,” agrees Portnoy. “Casey is usually the lead vocalist with Neal and me behind him, though we sometimes switch it up. Either way, the three-part vocals are definitelya key part of the Flying Colors sound.”

 

As a songwriter, McPherson is never afraid to confront his feelings head-on, whether it’s the nostalgic bent of “Last Train Home” or the raw, relatable universality of “You Are Not Alone.” In short, Third Degreeis a very human record to its core. “For me, music is a platform to sort through the things I’m going through, and it gives the listener the opportunity to do that too,” McPherson believes. “I try to be acutely honest, metaphorically, so that other people can find their own story in our songs — like I hope they will with ‘Crawl.’ Sometimes, we have to be reminded that life is about the overall ebb and flow.” Portnoy agrees that “Crawl” is his personal favorite track on the album. “The minute we finished writing it, I knewit was the album closer, hands down. I knew it right there and then,” he emphatically reports. “It’s the one new song of ours I most look forward to playing live.” 

 

To that end, Flying Colors have booked nine live dates on their calendar, mostly split evenly between the U.S. and Europe — in essence, to perform as many shows for their fans as they can possibly fit in between their many other band and touring commitments. “There’s an evolution happening within our sound on this record, and I’m excited to explore that onstage,” McPherson notes. “We’ve seen that evolution start with this record, and we’re going to see it happen even more so on the fourth record, in terms of capturing all our beautiful differences.”

 

Another progression has been the band’s use of technology to provide industry-leading sound. Third Degreewas engineered with the award-winning Harmonic Phrase Analysis and Restoration (HPAR) technology. Developed by the band’s resident mad scientist, Bill Evans (also rumored to have approached the fantastic five about forming the band), he created HPAR based on the group’s performance styles — resulting in unprecedented fidelity. Flying Colors regular producer Rich Mouser (The Neal Morse Band, Transatlantic) then crafted a sumptuous mix in his inimitable style.

 

Portnoy agrees the future of Flying Colors looks quite bright indeed. “Our mission statement when we came together is still the same now,” he affirms. “It’s the same five guys with extremely different musical personalities and backgrounds coming together into a giant melting pot where it all comes out on the other end with music that’s accessible, melodic, deep, and colorful. That’s always been the goal of this band, and so far, I think we’re three for three.”

With Third Degree, Flying Colors continue to fire on all cylinders — and, in the process, they also handily prove the third time’s an unquestionable sonic charm.

 

The complete track listing features “The Loss Inside,” “More,” “Cadence,” “Guardian,” “Last Train Home,” “Geronimo,” “You Are Not Alone,” “Love Letter,” and “Crawl.”

 

Flying Colors will make the following appearances in 2019:

8/30     Cross Plains, TN                                                         MorseFest 2019

9/05     Ventura, CA                                                               Ventura Theater

10/07   New York, NY                                                           Sony Hall

10/11   Glenside, PA                                                              Keswick Theater

10/17   St. Charles, IL                                                             Arcada Theater

12/11   Pratteln, Switzerland                                                   Z7

12/12   Cologne, Germany                                                      Essigfabrik

12/13   Tilburg, Netherlands                                                   013

12/14   London, England                                                         Shepherd’s Bush Empire

 

 

ART: mlgpress.com/flying-colors/third-degree

www.flyingcolorsmusic.com

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http://twitter.com/flyingcolors

http://flyingcolors.mlgmerch.com
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Craft Recordings announce vinyl reissues of Mike Ness' 'Cheating At Solitaire' and 'Under The Influences'

Huge news today for fans of Mike Ness, Social Distortion, and roots rock fans who love vinyl. Craft Recordings is set to issue viny reissues of both solo LPs from the aforementioned Mike Ness this weekend! Back in 2008, I had the opportunity to review Mike Ness in an intimate solo outing at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano. You can read that review here.

CRAFT RECORDINGS ANNOUNCE VINYL REISSUES OF

CHEATING AT SOLITAIRE AND UNDER THE INFLUENCES

SOLO TITLES FROM SOCIAL DISTORTION’S ICONIC FRONTMAN, MIKE NESS

AVAILABLE APRIL 6^th

Craft Recordings is proud to announce two vinyl reissues for Mike Ness’ solo albums, Under The Influences and Cheating At Solitaire, both set for release on April 6. Ness is most widely known as the frontman for Social Distortion — a band that would profoundly impact the American Punk Rock movement and go on to be one of the best-selling punk rock groups of all time. But long before he ever heard the Ramones, the Clash or the Sex Pistols, Ness grew up listening to early rock and roll.

His solo work represents the full spectrum of all these influences. Cheating At Solitaire and Under The Influences integrate punk, rockabilly, primitive rock and roll, country and blues while maintaining the energy that typifies Mike Ness. 

About Cheating At Solitaire:

Cheating At Solitaire, the first solo release from Ness, was originally released in 1999 and has been long out of print on vinyl until this reissue. This 2-LP album incorporates the raw power and social relevance that has always marked Mike Ness’ music, while embracing many of the defining styles in American rock and roll history. Among the guest contributors are Brian Setzer and Bruce Springsteen, and featured cover songs include Bob Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright” and Hank Williams’ “You Win Again.” Bonus track “Company C” is exclusive to the vinyl configuration.

The album is available to pre-order now as a 2-LP vinyl set, and also on limited-edition blue vinyl (500 pieces), available exclusively via the Official Mike Ness Store (at the pre-order link below).

Cheating At Solitaire – Track Listing:

A1: The Devil In Miss Jones

A2: Don’t Think Twice

A3: Misery Loves Company (with Bruce Springsteen)

A4: Crimes Don’t Pay (with Brian Setzer)

B1: Rest Of Our Lives

B2: You Win Again

B3: Cheating At Solitaire

B4: No Man’s Friend

C1: Charmed Life

C2: Dope Fiend Blues (with Billy Zoom)

C3: Ballad Of A Lonely Man

C4: I’m In Love With My Car

D1: If You Leave Before Me

D2: Long Black Veil

D3: Send Her Back

D4: Company C

Pre-order on vinyl here: http://found.ee/MikeNess-Solitaire-LP-p

Mike Ness of Social Distortion performs at Verizon
Wireless Amphitheater in October 2011.
Photo credit: Kelly A. Swift

About Under The Influences:

Under The Influences is an influences-driven collection of country, rock and bluegrass covers of songs that inspired Mike Ness. He was especially inspired by the roots of American music, and his earliest influences were the pioneers of rock and roll — musicians that were scandalous and rebellious in their day. Johnny Cash, The Rolling Stones, Woody Guthrie and Creedence Clearwater Revival marked Ness’ early years. The musicianship of the bands and the revolutionary spirit at their core appealed to Ness. This radical essence would become his calling-card, but he would never lose the love of his roots.

“I have a great affection for roots music. Old blues, country, folk, rockabilly and primitive rock and roll in general.” Says Ness, “Without these roots, I wouldn't have perspective. I love the music and feel it is as relevant as ’70s glitter and early punk. As a solo artist, I am able to cross the boundaries and integrate it all. I tried to bring these influences together and keep it honest."

Under The Influences, first released in 1999, features songs as diverse as the Sonny Curtis-penned "I Fought The Law" and the Carter Family’s “Wildwood Flower,” each with a unique Mike Ness spin. It also features a honky-tonk version of the Social Distortion classic, “Ball and Chain.”

The album is available to pre-order now as a standard vinyl, and also on limited-edition red vinyl (500 pieces), available exclusively via the Official Mike Ness Store (at the pre-order link below).

Under The Influences – Track Listing:

A1: All I Can Do Is Cry

A2: Gamblin’ Man

A3: Let The Jukebox Keep On Playing

A4: I Fought The Law

A5: Big Iron

A6: One More Time

A7: Six More Miles

B1: A Thief In The Night

B2: Once A Day

B3: Funnel Of Love

B4: House Of Gold

B5: Wildwood Flower

B6: Ball and Chain (Honky Tonk)

Pre-order on vinyl here:  http://found.ee/MikeNess-Influences-LP-p