Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Sights and Sounds: Paul Weller, Bob Dylan tribute

Before I get ready to get on my freeway survival gear and get set to make the long trek up to Los Angeles to catch The Cure at The Pantages tonight, I wanted to share a few highlights that arrived in my inbox today. Enjoy!

Paul Weller set to release 'Sonik Kicks' on March 27, 2012


Special London shows scheduled for March, with shows in the U.S. to follow

First Single “Around The Lake” Available On iTunes Next Week


Enjoying a constant critical high and a never ending creative peak, Paul Weller continues to push the boundaries with his forthcoming new album Sonik Kicks, scheduled for release on March 27, 2012 on Yep Roc Records. The album is the follow up to the Mercury Prize Award nominated Wake Up The Nation and is also Paul’s eleventh solo album. Once again, it's his best yet.

For fans eager to hear a taste of what’s to come, RollingStone.com will be previewing the first single “Around The Lake” beginning today. The song will also be available for purchase on iTunes beginning next week.

Sonik Kicks features fourteen brand new tracks: “Green,” “The Attic,” “Kling I Klang,” “Sleep of the Serene,” “By the Waters,” “That Dangerous Age,” “Study in Blue,” “Dragonfly,” “When Your Garden’s Overgrown,” “Around The Lake,” “Twilight,” “Drifters,” “Paperchase,” and “Be Happy Children.” Both Noel Gallagher and Graham Coxon appear as special guests on the album.

Since Weller isn’t one to wait 20 years to be invited to perform his “classic” album, he has decided to do so now. Sonik Knicks will be performed in full at The Roundhouse in London, England on March 18th & 19th. Tickets go on sale 9 a.m. on Friday Nov 25. US shows are in the works for Weller and will be announced at a later date.

2012 will also mark two important anniversaries for Paul Weller. In 1977 (35 years ago) The Jam burst on to the music scene with their debut album In The City, which without question was one of the most important punk albums to ever be released. Since then Weller consistently changed and evolved his sound through his work with The Style Council and as a solo artist. It was 20 years ago in 1992 when Weller released his self-titled first ever solo album.

With Sonik Kicks Paul Weller once again shakes up his palate and stirs his influences anew. He mixes pop art punch with soulful communication; jazzy explorations into psychedelia and dub with razor-sharp melodies and abstract soundscapes with clear-eyed forest-folk.


Chimes of Freedom - 75 Newly Recorded Bob Dylan Songs by Over 80 Artists Scheduled for January 24, 2012 Release -- Salutes Amnesty International's 50th Anniversary and Life-Saving Human Rights Work




The Collection Features Songs By

* Adele * The Airborne Toxic Event * Joan Baez * Natasha Bedingfield * Jackson Browne * Cage the Elephant * Elvis Costello * Darren Criss * Miley Cyrus * Dave Matthews Band * K'NAAN * Ke$ha * Mark Knopfler * Diana Krall * Lenny Kravitz * Kris Kristofferson * Ziggy Marley * Maroon 5 * Tom Morello * My Chemical Romance * Joe Perry * Queens Of The Stone Age * Raphael Saadiq * Seal & Jeff Beck * Silversun Pickups * Patti Smith * Sting * Sugarland * Pete Townshend * Lucinda Williams * Evan Rachel Wood



Two iconic forces that have impacted the past 50 years - the life-saving human rights activism of Nobel Peace Prize-winning Amnesty International and the incomparable artistry of Bob Dylan - are being saluted by 80 musicians who contributed new or previously unreleased recordings to Chimes of Freedom: The Songs of Bob Dylan Honoring 50 Years of Amnesty International.



Chimes of Freedom is Executive Produced by legendary music executive Jeff Ayeroff and Julie Yannatta, who spearheaded Instant Karma: The Amnesty International Campaign to Save Darfur - a 2007 collection of John Lennon solo compositions performed by major artists including U2, Green Day and R.E.M.

The collection is scheduled for physical (4 discs) and digital release in North America on January 24, 2012 through Fontana Distribution. It will be distributed internationally through Fontana International, a Universal Music company, on January 30.



Chimes of Freedom features a stellar and diverse group of artists across the generational and musical spectrum. The performers, including many of Amnesty International's longtime supporters, range in age from teenage pop star Miley Cyrus, 19, to folk music legend Pete Seeger, who, at 92, records Dylan's poignant "Forever Young," with a children's chorus.



The diversity of the musicians and musical genres - from rock, rap, hip-hop to pop, folk, country, jazz and blues -- attests to Amnesty's depth of support in the music community, the universal appeal of the core message of human rights, and the breadth of Dylan's impact on culture. Almost every track on the album is being released for sale for the first time* - except for the title song, Dylan's original 1964 recording of "Chimes of Freedom." Seventy songs were recorded especially for this release - with the addition of a few previously unreleased recordings.



"This album is a powerful fusion of the music community's respect for Amnesty's life-affirming work and for Bob Dylan's enduring brilliance," said Ayeroff and Yannatta. "We are proud to have worked with Amnesty to produce this remarkable project."


In 1962, Amnesty International evolved from a one-year campaign to free political prisoners into a worldwide movement fighting for justice, freedom and human dignity; today the organization has more than three million supporters in 150 countries. In March of that same year Bob Dylan's debut album was released, launching an unparalleled recording career.

"Over the half century, Dylan's art has explored and expressed the anguish and hope of the modern human condition," observed Sean Wilentz, the noted historian, in the album liner notes.


"Bob Dylan's music endures because he so brilliantly captures our heartbreak, our joy, our frailty, our confusion, our courage and our struggles," said Karen Scott Amnesty International's Manager of Music Relations. "His words convey a depth of meaning that few artists can equal, inspiring us and always moving ahead of our expectations. We at Amnesty International are deeply grateful to this legendary musician and to all of the artists who have contributed to this project."



All of the artists, session musicians, arrangers, engineers, producers and recording studios worked pro-bono to support the human rights cause. Almost 30 tracks on the album were mixed gratis by famed engineer Bob Clearmountain. Bob Ludwig and Adam Ayan of Gateway Mastering donated their mastering services. The album cover illustration is by Grammy Award winning artist Mick Haggerty. Eight tracks were produced or executive produced by Martin Lewis, who as co-creator/producer in the 1970s of Amnesty's ongoing "Secret Policeman's Ball" benefit series, instigated Amnesty's outreach to rock musicians by recruiting and producing Pete Townshend, Sting, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Bob Geldof and others. Executive Producers for Amnesty International are Helen Garrett, director of special projects, and Karen Scott, manager of music relations.



Through Chimes of Freedom, Amnesty International seeks to enlist support for its fight against censorship and attacks on free speech - whether involving artists, writers, musicians, political activists or bloggers. In this campaign, Amnesty is fighting for people such as the imprisoned Nobel Prize winner Liu Xiaobo in China, a scholar and human rights defender imprisoned since 2009 for writing about corruption and criticizing China's political system. In addition to purchasing the album at www.amnestyusa.org/chimes, supporters will find actions they can take to help individuals whose freedom of expression is under threat.

The tracklisting for Chimes of Freedom: The Songs of Bob Dylan Honoring 50 Years of Amnesty International is as follows:


DISC 1


Raphael Saadiq
Leopard-Skin Pill-Box Hat

Patti Smith
Drifter's Escape

Rise Against
Ballad of Hollis Brown

Tom Morello The Nightwatchman
Blind Willie McTell

Pete Townshend
Corrina, Corrina

Bettye LaVette
Most of the Time

Charlie Winston
This Wheel's On Fire

Diana Krall
Simple Twist of Fate

Brett Dennen
You Ain't Goin' Nowhere

Mariachi El Bronx
Love Sick

Ziggy Marley
Blowin' in the Wind

The Gaslight Anthem
Changing of the Guards

Silversun Pickups
Not Dark Yet

My Morning Jacket
You're A Big Girl Now

The Airborne Toxic Event
Boots of Spanish Leather

Sting
Girl from the North Country

Mark Knopfler
Restless Farewell






DISC 2


Queens Of The Stone Age
Outlaw Blues

Lenny Kravitz
Rainy Day Woman # 12 & 35

Steve Earle & Lucia Micarelli
One More Cup of Coffee (Valley Below)

Blake Mills
Heart Of Mine

Miley Cyrus
You're Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go

Billy Bragg
Lay Down Your Weary Tune

Elvis Costello
License to Kill

Angelique Kidjo
Lay, Lady, Lay

Natasha Bedingfield
Ring Them Bells

Jackson Browne
Love Minus Zero/No Limit

Joan Baez
Seven Curses (Live)

The Belle Brigade
No Time To Think

Sugarland
Tonight I'll Be Staying Here With You (Live)

Jack's Mannequin
Mr. Tambourine Man

Oren Lavie
4th Time Around

Sussan Deyhim
All I Really Want To Do

Adele
Make You Feel My Love (Recorded Live at WXPN)






DISC 3


K'NAAN
With God On Our Side

Ximena Sariñana
I Want You

Neil Finn with Pajama Club
She Belongs to Me

Bryan Ferry
Bob Dylan's Dream

Zee Avi
Tomorrow Is A Long Time

Carly Simon
Just Like a Woman

Flogging Molly
The Times They Are A-Changin'

Fistful Of Mercy
Buckets Of Rain

Joe Perry
Man Of Peace

Bad Religion
It's All Over Now, Baby Blue

My Chemical Romance
Desolation Row (Live)

RedOne featuring Nabil Khayat
Knockin' on Heaven's Door

Paul Rodgers & Nils Lofgren
Abandoned Love

Darren Criss featuring Chuck Criss and Freelance Whales
New Morning

Cage the Elephant
The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll

Band of Skulls
It Ain't Me, Babe

Sinéad O'Connor
Property of Jesus

Ed Roland and The Sweet Tea Project
Shelter From The Storm

Ke$ha
Don't Think Twice, It's All Right

Kronos Quartet
Don't Think Twice, It's All Right




DISC 4


Maroon 5
I Shall Be Released

Carolina Chocolate Drops
Political World

Seal & Jeff Beck
Like A Rolling Stone

Taj Mahal
Bob Dylan's 115th Dream

Dierks Bentley
Senor (Tales of Yankee Power) (Live)

Mick Hucknall
One Of Us Must Know (Sooner Or Later)

Thea Gilmore
I'll Remember You

State Radio
John Brown

Dave Matthews Band
All Along the Watchtower (Live)

Michael Franti
Subterranean Homesick Blues

We Are Augustines
Mama, You Been On My Mind

Lucinda Williams
Tryin' To Get To Heaven

Kris Kristofferson
Quinn The Eskimo (The Mighty Quinn)

Eric Burdon
Gotta Serve Somebody

Evan Rachel Wood
I'd Have You Anytime

Marianne Faithfull
Baby Let Me Follow You Down (Live)

Pete Seeger
Forever Young

Bob Dylan
Chimes Of Freedom






DIGITAL ONLY


Outernational
When The Ship Comes In

Silverstein
Song To Woody

Daniel Bedingfield
Man In The Long Black Coat

The Doors celebrate the 40th anniversary reissue of 'L.A. Woman'



Here it is on the eve of Thanksgiving, so why not provide everybody with even more reason to be thankful. The Doors are truly one of the greatest rock bands of all time and their music continues to resonate more than 40 years after Jim Morrison's tragic death. Now there is big news I want to share here.


THE DOORS LAUNCH "THE YEAR OF THE DOORS" WITH 40TH ANNIVERSARY REISSUE OF ICONIC 'L.A. WOMAN' ALBUM AND NEW DVD/BLU-RAY 'MR. MOJO RISIN THE STORY OF L.A. WOMAN'


Includes debut of "She Smells So Nice," a newly-discovered original song from the 'L.A. Woman' sessions

Fans of iconic rock band THE DOORS are in for something special. The group's final album--1971's L.A. WOMAN, with the signature hits "L.A. Woman," "Love Her Madly" and "Riders On The Storm"--is being celebrated with a special two-CD release from Rhino and a behind-the-scenes DVD/Blu-ray from Eagle Rock Entertainment.


The L.A. WOMAN 40th anniversary edition (Rhino 2-CD) features a never-before-heard song, "She Smells So Nice," which captures the band--organist RAY MANZAREK, guitarist ROBBY KRIEGER, drummer JOHN DENSMORE and late singer JIM MORRISON--joyfully barreling through a full-throttle original before segueing into the blues standard "Rock Me." As the song closes, Morrison can be heard chanting, "Mr. Mojo Risin'"--an anagram of his name that was made famous during the bridge of "L.A. Woman." Recently discovered by producer Bruce Botnick while reviewing the L.A. WOMAN session tapes, a teaser clip of "She Smells So Nice" can be heard here: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/exclusive-preview-newly-unearthed-doors-track-she-smells-so-nice-20111117


In addition to "She Smells So Nice," the second disc of the L.A. WOMAN reissue includes eight never-before-heard versions of songs from the album. Alternate takes of "L.A. Woman," "Love Her Madly" and "Riders On The Storm" offer a fresh view on this landmark album, which was the group's sixth straight Top 10. The studio chatter between the songs is a revelation, transporting listeners to The Doors Workshop: the West Hollywood rehearsal space where they recorded the album with Botnick. One segment in particular captures a fascinating moment of inspiration when Morrison suggests they add the now-iconic thunderstorm sound effects to the beginning of "Riders On The Storm." Rhino will also release L.A. WOMAN: THE WORKSHOP SESSIONS, a double LP featuring all of the previously unreleased material found on the CD collection on three sides of vinyl, with the fourth side featuring a laser etching of the original "Electric Woman" art originally included with the L.A. WOMAN album.

Mr. Mojo Risin': The Story of L.A. Woman(Eagle Rock Entertainment DVD/Blu-ray) is told through new interviews with MANZAREK, KRIEGER and DENSMORE as well as Elektra Records founder JAC HOLZMAN, original manager BILL SIDDONS, engineer/co-producer BRUCE BOTNICK and others. The high-definition video also features live and studio performances as well as rare archival photos. This fascinating documentary contains rare footage of THE DOORSin the studio and on stage. The documentary was made with the full involvement, approval and cooperation of THE DOORS. [Pre-book Order Date December 20, 2011, MSRP $14.98 for DVD, $19.98 for Blu-ray].


"The Year of The Doors" will be marked by other special releases, with details to be announced soon.


L.A. WOMAN marked THE DOORS' swan song, as MORRISON would pass away a few months after its release. At the time, Rolling Stone's Robert Meltzer called it "The Doors' greatest album...A landmark worthy of dancing in the streets (5/27/71)." The first band to release eight consecutive platinum albums, THE DOORS were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1993 and received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2007.


MR. MOJO RISIN': THE STORY OF L.A. WOMAN

DVD and Blu-ray Track Listing

MAIN PROGRAM -

Intro

Early Doors

The Changeling

Been Down So Long / The Miami Effect

The Doors Workshop

Crawling King Snake

Love Her Madly

L.A. Woman

The Wasp (Texas Radio & The Big Beat)

Riders On The Storm

Cars Hiss By My Window / Jim In Paris

Hyacinth House

Closing Doors



BONUS FOOTAGE -

John Densmore On L.A. Woman



Riders On The Storm

The Doors Guide To L.A.

Thoughts On Performing Live


Crawling King Snake





L.A. WOMAN: 40TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

CD Track Listing



Disc One

1. "The Changeling"

2. "Love Her Madly"

3. "Been Down So Long"

4. "Cars Hiss By My Window"

5. "L.A. Woman"

6. "L'America"

7. "Hyacinth House"

8. "Crawling King Snake"

9. "The WASP (Texas Radio and the Big Beat)"

10. "Riders On The Storm"

Disc Two: All Selections Previously Unissued

1. "The Changeling" - Alternate Version*

2. "Love Her Madly" - Alternate Version*

3. "Cars Hiss By My Window" - Alternate Version*

4. "L.A. Woman" - Alternate Version*

5. "The WASP (Texas Radio and the Big Beat)" - Alternate Version*

6. "Been Down So Long" - Alternate Version*

7. "Riders On The Storm" - Alternate Version*

8. "She Smells So Nice"

9. "Rock Me"*



L.A. WOMAN: THE WORKSHOP SESSIONS

LP Track Listing



Side One

1. "The Changeling" - Alternate Version*

2. "Love Her Madly" - Alternate Version*

3. "Cars Hiss By My Window" - Alternate Version*

4. "L.A. Woman" - Alternate Version*



Side Two

1. "The WASP (Texas Radio and the Big Beat)" - Alternate Version*

2. "Been Down So Long" - Alternate Version*

3. "Riders On The Storm" - Alternate Version*

Side Three

1. "She Smells So Nice / Rock Me"*



* Previously unreleased

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Sights and Sounds: The Chieftains, Jimi Hendrix, Paul Rodgers

I was away most of last week and my inbox runneth over for sure...Enjoy everybody!

THE CHIEFTAINS CELEBRATE 50 YEARS WITH STAR STUDDED 'VOICE OF AGES' DUE FEBRUARY 21, 2012

BON IVER, THE DECEMBERISTS, THE CIVIL WARS AND MORE CELEBRATE THE LEGENDARY IRISH GROUP ON THE PADDY MOLONEY AND T BONE BURNETT PRODUCED 50TH ANNIVERSARY ALBUM VIA HEAR/CONCORD



The Chieftains, the world's most celebrated traditional Irish band, will mark their 50th anniversary with the release of Voice of Ages on February 21st 2012 (Hear/Concord). An imaginative collaboration featuring a dazzling collection of like-minded musical visionaries and kindred spirits, Voice of Ages, produced by Paddy Moloney and T Bone Burnett, features The Chieftains teaming with stars from the worlds of indie-rock (Bon Iver, The Decemberists, The Low Anthem), country and Americana (The Civil Wars, Pistol Annies, Carolina Chocolate Drops, Punch Brothers), Irish and Scottish folk (Imelda May, Lisa Hannigan, Paolo Nutini) and more. "With 50 years of glorious music behind us," Paddy Moloney says, "I can think of nothing more exciting than to spend another 50 years collaborating with the best voices of the future."
Founded in 1962, winners of 6 Grammy Awards and an Academy Award, The Chieftains: founder and leader Paddy Moloney (Uilleann pipes, tin whistle), Matt Molloy (flute), Seán Keane (fiddle) and Kevin Conneff (bodhrán, vocals), have popularized traditional Irish music world-wide during their astonishing 50 year career. Over the years, some of the biggest names in music have worked with the legendary band: Sting, Van Morrison, Joni Mitchell,
Joni Mitchell, and The Rolling Stones among many others. Voice of Ages is a bold affirmation that their inspiring influence, musical brilliance and enduring legacy are more relevant than ever.

The Chieftains 2012 US tour will kick off in Santa Barbara, CA February 17 and will culminate with a special 50th Anniversary St. Patrick's Day show at New York's Carnegie Hall March 17. For tour information is available on the group's official Web site.

Artists featured on Voice of Ages:
The Decemberists
Punch Brothers
The Secret Sisters
The Low Anthem
The Civil Wars
Pistol Annies
Carolina Chocolate Drops
Lisa Hannigan
Carlos Nunez
Paolo Nutini
Imelda May
Bon Iver

The Chieftains on the web:
http://www.thechieftains.com/



American Express Presents 'Reel to Reel: Blue Wild Angel: Jimi Hendrix At The Isle of Wight' at The GRAMMY Museum

All-Star Panel To Discuss Essential Hendrix Documentary On Dec. 8, 2011



Jimi Hendrix is recognized as one of the most creative and influential musicians of the 20th century. His innovative style and explosive abilities on the electric guitar captivated a worldwide audience. During the early morning hours of August 31, 1970, during his last tour, Hendrix headlined the Isle of Wight Festival and performed before an audience of 600,000--the largest of his career. Three weeks later, Hendrix was gone. Academy Award-winner Murray Lerner captured the historic performance of the Jimi Hendrix Experience, including Hendrix, Mitch Mitchell and Billy Cox. Join us as we present Lerner's film, Blue Wild Angel: Jimi Hendrix Live At The Isle of Wight. The film, a testimony to Hendrix's incomparable musicianship and showmanship as well as Lerner's cinematic artistry, will be introduced by Janie Hendrix, the late guitarist's sister and President of Experience Hendrix LLC. Following the screening there will be a panel discussion moderated by the GRAMMY Museum's Executive Director Bob Santelli with Billy Cox, bassist of the Jimi Hendrix Experience and Jimi Hendrix Band of Gypsys, filmmaker Murray Lerner and John McDermott, Producer and Catalog Director of the Experience Hendrix catalog and co-author of Jimi Hendrix: Sessions: The Complete Studio Recording Sessions, 1963-1970 and Ultimate Hendrix: An Illustrated Encyclopedia of live Concerts & Sessions

WHO: Billy Cox: Bassist, Jimi Hendrix Experience

Janie Hendrix: President, Experience Hendrix LLC and sister to Jimi Hendrix

Murray Lerner: Director, Blue Wild Angel: Jimi Hendrix At The Isle of Wight

John McDermott: Producer and Catalog Director, Experience Hendrix Catalogue Bob Santelli: Moderator / Executive Director, The GRAMMY Museum

WHEN: Thursday, December 8, 2011; 7:30 p.m.


WHERE: The GRAMMY Museum at L.A. LIVE
800 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA 90015
(Near the corner of Figueroa Street and Olympic Boulevard)


TICKET INFO: Doors open at 7 p.m. Public onsale is Friday, December 2, at noon. American Express is the exclusive payment method for presale tickets. American Express ticket purchasers will also receive a special gift. All proceeds benefit the GRAMMY Museum. For more information, call 213-765-6803.



PAUL RODGERS RECEIVES ASCAP AWARD FOR "BAD COMPANY"

SINGER/SONGWRITER/MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST BEGINS WORK ON FORTHCOMING SOLO STUDIO ALBUM


The American Society of Composers, Authors & Publishers (ASCAP) has proudly presented the 2010 Songwriting Award in recognition of the hit song "Bad Company" to Paul Rodgers. The song hit #1 on the charts this past year when Five Finger Death Punch recorded and released their version of the timeless hit. When Rodgers wrote the song he was the first to write a self-titled song, where a band's name was also the title of a composition. Other acts to follow Rodgers concept include Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden and Motorhead. The award was given out in London on November 2, 2011 and was accepted by Rodgers son, musician Steve Rodgers. The iconic Rodgers was in New York City due to a prior commitment to appear with Joe Bonamassa at the Beacon Theater back-to-back nights.


Rodgers will be the featured guest on an upcoming episode of VH1 Classic's That Metal Show, set to air on January 14, 2012 at 11 p.m. This is his first television appearance since appearing on the national program Canada AM the morning of September 6th prior to embarking on his first major Canadian tour in several years. Rodgers also recently became a dual citizen of Canada and the United Kingdom, and will kick off his limited 2012 tour dates March 17 at the Red Robinson Show Theatre in Coquitlam, British Columbia Canada.

The Grammy nominated, multi-platinum selling singer, songwriter & self-taught instrumentalist has written, recorded, produced and released more than 30 albums since 1968 and has sold over 90 million records. Rodgers formed and led three separate bands to worldwide success: Free, Bad Company & The Firm and recently fronted Queen and toured as Queen + Paul Rodgers. Always looking forward, Rodgers has begun work on a solo studio record earmarked for the new year. He shared, "In 2012, I'll be focused on writing and recording so I'll only play a few select shows, and I may well include a new song or two just to play them in before they are recorded. This is something I like to do because playing live gives me a somewhat different perspective on the dynamics of the song."

Over the years Rodgers has recorded/performed with a who's who of rock including: Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Brian May, Buddy Guy, Joe Walsh, Slash, Nils Lofgren, Charlie Watts, Bryan Adams, Motown's Sam Moore and The Four Tops to name just a select few.

The Civil Wars bring harmony to Wiltern

There are countless modern music makers who can rock with force. Indeed, punk, alt rock and metal outfits share that pedal-to-the-metal approach in spades.
Rarer is the contemporary artist who can touch audiences with artful songcraft, stunning harmonies and heartfelt performances.
The Civil Wars - singer-keyboardist Joy Williams and singer-guitarist John Paul White - are that rare young duo able to have somehow found a large audience despite having a musical approach rooted in folk and Americana.
Over the course of 75 wonderful minutes at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles on Saturday (Nov. 19), the Civil Wars performed 17 songs that offered up nearly flawless artistry from two musicians who only began playing together three years ago. In addition to performing more than a dozen original songs, they reworked (and I mean REWORKED) The Smashing Pumpkins' “Disarm” and Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" to add additional power to the night. Impressive.

I would encourage everyone to read writer George Paul's comprehensive review of the show that was posted on the Orange County Register's Soundcheck blog today.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Sights and Sounds: Kate Bush, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds

Mondays aren't all bad. Today comes word that Kate Bush is releasing her second album of 2011, and NPR is streaming the disc now. And Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds are set to return to the U.S. in spring 2012 (good news for those who can't catch any of their dates this week in New York or California)...

KATE BUSH TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM NOVEMBER 21

Stream 50 Words For Snow On NPR’s First Listen 11-14-11



The legendary singer KATE BUSH will release her brand new studio album 50 Words For Snow via Anti-Records this November 21st. You can preview the record beginning today, November 14 when it streams in its entirety care of NPR’s First Listen series.

To hear the new record at NPR just go to:
http://www.npr.org/2011/11/13/142133269/first-listen-kate-bush-50-words-for-snow?ps=mh_frhdl1

50 Words For Snow features 7 new tracks set against a background of falling snow, with a total running time of 65 minutes; through a highly evocative musical and lyrical landscape this haunting album once again pushes the boundaries. This is KATE’s second album release of 2011, following Director’s Cut which was released in May to massive critical acclaim.

The new album features a small number of special guest musicians including Elton John. KATE BUSH is an original and iconic musical figure who has influenced a range of artists from newcomers like Florence and the Machine and Feist to established artists like Tori Amos, Bjork and Sex Pistol/PIL legend John Lydon, who proclaimed; “Kate Bush supplies me with all the clues and it’s up to me to put the answers together, and that surely is what we are all looking for”.

Early Critical Acclaim For 50 Words For Snow:

“After the domestic bliss of ‘Aerial,’ it’s a deep joy to have Kate roam the narrative wiles of her imagination.” - NME
“It lifts the heart and transcends your world.” – The Word Magazine
“50 Words For Snow is a masterclass in song writing by of the UK’s most indomitable and peerless artists.” – TheQuietus.com




NOEL GALLAGHER'S HIGH FLYING BIRDS ANNOUNCE 2012 TOUR DATES

BAND TO TOUR U.S. THIS SPRING


Conan Appearance set for December 12th

November 14, 2011 - NOEL GALLAGHER'S HIGH FLYING BIRDS will return to the U.S. in Spring next year launching their tour in Washington, DC on March 28, 2012 and make stops in Detroit, Chicago, Milwaukee and Atlanta. Tickets for the spring tour go on sale November 18.(Complete tour dates below) Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds are in the midst of a sold-out North American tour and a week into the release of their self titled debut album.


On November 8, NOEL GALLAGHER'S HIGH FLYING BIRDS was released in the US on Sour Mash/Mercury Records followed by their network television debut on The Late Show with David Letterman on November 10th. The band will make a special appearance on Conan on December 12th.


NOEL GALLAGHER'S HIGH FLYING BIRDS was recorded in London and completed in Los Angeles during 2010 and the first half of 2011. The album was co-produced by Noel Gallagher and Dave Sardy, who produced the last Oasis album, Dig Out Your Soul (2008).


NOEL GALLAGHER'S HIGH FLYING BIRDS went straight to the #1 spot in the United Kingdom, selling an impressive 240,000 & going Platinum in its first 3 weeks of release. Gallagher's debut solo album, which was released in Europe on October 18, ranks among the highest selling debuts of 2011.

Beginning in August, with the UK debut of "The Death of You and Me", Gallagher has released a trilogy of videos including "If I Had a Gun" and culminating with an amazing video for Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds new UK single 'AKA... What A Life!'. The video was co-directed by Mike Bruce and Blake West, who worked with Noel on the video for 'The Death Of You And Me'. Filmed in California, Arizona and New Mexico, the video features an outrageous performance by actor / comedian Russell Brand.

Visit Gallagher's Web site for more details and to view the video.

NOEL GALLAGHER'S HIGH FLYING BIRDS 2012 SPRING U.S. TOUR DATES

March 28 Washington,DC @ Warner Theatre

March 29 Columbus, OH @ LC Pavillion

March 31 Detroit, MI @ Royal Oak Music Theatre

April 1 Chicago, IL @ The Riviera

April 3 Milwaukee, WI @ Pabst Theater

April 4 Indianapolis, IN @ Egyptian Room

April 6 Atlanta, GA @ Tabernacle



NOEL GALLAGHER'S HIGH FLYING BIRDS REMAINING FALL U.S TOUR DATES

November 14 & 15 New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre

November 17 & 18 Los Angeles, CA @ Royce Hall

November 19 San Francisco, CA @ Orpheum Theatre

Wednesday, November 09, 2011

Sights and Sounds: The Cure, Ladysmith Black Mambazo

There are several interesting updates related to forthcoming releases from opposite ends of the sonic universe, so best to just jump right in...

The Cure set to release live album on Dec. 6


On Dec. 6, 2011, The Cure: Bestival Live 2011 will be issued, available in stores and online. The release will feature Robert Smith's outfit performing a set comprised of material from throughout the Cure's long career. The collection is being issued by Belgium-based Play It Again Sam, and is available for pre-order through Amazon.com.

The double album, which will also be available as a digital download, will feature 32 Cure classics. In a statement, Robert Smith said: "We had such a great time in the Isle of Wight at Bestival, that we wanted to release this show as a way of thanking fans and islanders alike. Bestival is the best!"

All proceeds from the album go to the Isle of Wight Youth Trust. The charitable organization offers counseling, advice, information and support services to people age 25 and under on the Isle of Wight (the home of Bestival).

For more information on The Isle of Wight Youth Trust, visit: http://www.iowyouthtrust.co.uk/


LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO JOINS HANDS WITH DOZENS OF FRIENDS ON NEW TWO-DISC COLLECTION

Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Friends set for release on Jan. 10, 2012

The 132 Minute, Thirty Track Ultimate Collection Includes Collaborations With
Paul Simon, Emmylou Harris, Josh Groban, Taj Mahal, Natalie Merchant,
Sarah McLachlan, Dolly Parton, Lou Rawls And Many More


Since their earliest days in the 1960s, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has shared the studio and stage with scores of artists from around the world, representing just about every possible musical genre. The South African a cappella gospel ensemble's appearance on Paul Simon's landmark Graceland album is probably the most widely-recognized of the group's cross-cultural collaborations, but Simon's 1986 Grammy-winning recording is merely the tip of a much larger iceberg. Over the years, the group has demonstrated its melodic, harmonic and rhythmic versatility in recordings with an array of artists representing folk, rock, pop, soul, country, classical, hip-hop and world music. In each case, they have taken the work of a great artist and made it even better.

The group assembled a two-disc set of recordings that capture Ladysmith Black Mambazo reaching across the cultural divide and joining hands with musicians from around the globe. Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Friends - set for release on January 10, 2012 (as part of the Listen 2 Africa Series / Razor & Tie) contains 30 tracks featuring the world renowned South African group in collaboration with some of the most esteemed and influential recording artists, choirs and orchestras of the past several decades: Paul Simon, Lucky Dube, Emmylou Harris, Hugh Masekela, Natalie Merchant, The English Chamber Orchestra, Sarah McLachlan, Phoebe Snow, Taj Mahal and many more.

"For the past half-century, we have used our music to promote goodwill, cultural understanding and spiritual awakening throughout the world," says Joseph Shabalala, founder of the group. "The fact that we've been able to perform and record with some of the most prominent musical voices representing so many different musical styles, so many different countries, so many different cultures, is proof of the unifying power of music. We're very fortunate to have made so many good friends along the way, and we're happy to have so many of these recordings with those friends gathered in a single collection."

Disc 1 of Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Friends opens with Mambazo backing Dolly Parton in a simmering but impassioned rendition of Bob Dylan's "Knocking on Heaven's Door." The track is followed immediately by "Weeping," a heart-rending ballad featuring Josh Groban and Vusi Mahlesala. Further into the sequence are the African sounding "Homeless" and the more pop-flavored "Diamonds on the Soles of their Shoes," both recorded with Paul Simon for Graceland.

Other highlights on the first disc include the stirring medley of "Amazing Grace/Nearer My God to Thee," recorded with Emmylou Harris; the Sam Cooke classic "Chain Gang," featuring the late velvet-voiced soul singer Lou Rawls; and the rousing "Bread of Heaven (Wales Forever)" with Michael Ball, the Lianelli Male Voice Choir and the Wales Squad Choir.

Disc 2 opens with a reprise of two songs from the first disc: "Homeless," this time with Sara McLachlen, and "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes," featuring Melissa Etheridge and Joe McBride recorded originally on the group's Long Walk To Freedom album.

Other second-half highlights include a part-gospel, part-pop reading of the Curtis Mayfield spiritual, "People Get Ready," with emotionally charged lead vocals by Phoebe Snow; and the engaging "One Blood," featuring Mbongeni Ngema

Blues and world music titan Taj Mahal joins the fray by laying down gritty vocals and deft guitar accents atop the hypnotic chant of "Mbube," while The Golden Gospel Singers join Mambazo in the soaring Staple Singers classic, "I'll Take You There."

In the home stretch, the voices of the SABC Choir merge seamlessly with Mambazo in the infectious "Angimboni Ofana Naye," and the set closes with the "Mamizola," where the group is joined by its female counterpart, the Women of Mambazo, a parallel vocal group founded in the 1970s by Joseph Shabalala's late wife, Nellie.

"The many tracks on Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Friends were recorded at many different times throughout our career, in many different places," says Shabalala. "The thread that ties them all together is the mutual respect and understanding among the musicians on each recording, and the desire to use music as a tool to spread that same respect and understanding to our audiences and around the world. This collection captures the beauty that emerges when Ladysmith Black Mambazo gets together with friends.

For more information, visit www.listen2.com

Michael Olivieri, Michael Ubaldini and others to perform in benefit for Duchenne muscular dystrophy awareness on Nov. 11



From the Oval Office to the Galaxy Theater in Santa Ana, Disabled Newport Beach Teen Works Tirelessly for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness

Coalition Duchenne presents Music Power at 7 p.m. on 11.11.11 featuring great OC bands and musicians who have played with Santana, Alicia Keyes, Jordin Sparks, Ne Yo, Jonas Brothers, U2 and more to raise global awareness for Duchenne, the most common fatal childhood genetic disease


On November 11, 2011 at 7 p.m., at the Galaxy Theater in Santa Ana, Coalition Duchenne, a Newport Beach Based charity that raises funding and awareness for Duchenne muscular dystrophy is holding a celebration of life and music featuring a diverse bill of local and international talent.

Dusty Brandom, the 18-year-old son of Coalition Duchenne founder Catherine Jayasuriya (seen in the photo at the top of this post), is hosting the event. Dusty who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy and has been wheelchair bound since age ten has fired the charitable passion of the participating musicians who range from his younger brother’s band, Final Crush to local favorites, and Newport Harbor High School alumni, Kings Road featuring Terry Lawless who has recorded and toured extensively with U2.

Also playing on the night, The Lucky Lonely have a strong connection to Dusty and the Brandom family’s struggle with Duchenne. The band’s drummer Michael Bedard (American Idol Jordin Sparks) accompanied Dusty in Lincoln Elementary School talent show performances. When he was younger, Dusty was an aspiring guitarist and songwriter nurtured by Bedard. Now he does not have the strength to hold a musical instrument.

Long time family friend Michael Olivieri is also playing with his band M.O.B. featuring past members of Santana, Scorpions, Social Distortion, Walter Trout Band, the Turtles, Rhythm Lords, and others. Michael was the driving force behind the success of seminal major label hard rock band, Leatherwolf.


One of the most acclaimed Orange County acts is also donating his talents. The Los Angeles Times said Michael Ubaldini (pictured on left) is ‘Better than Springsteen at probing the national soul’. He has won numerous awards such as: 2005 and 2006 Best Roots, Best Male Performer in the Orange County Music Awards and Best Live Performer/Songwriter in the Los Angeles Southern California Music Awards and his recording Portable Record Player was Nominated for Album of the Year in the OC Music Awards and named one of the best releases of the decade by Ben Wener of the OC Register.

MC for the event is Scotty Granger, keyboard player and vocal accompaniment for Jordin Sparks. Scotty featured recently in Kara Dioguardi’s ‘Platinum Hit’ (Bravo).

Completing the lineup is family friend Dave (Doc) Pittillo and his band Space Rockets. Doc owns the Guitar Doctor in Fountain Valley and is a ubiquitous presence in the OC music scene as one of the countries premiere luthiers.

Dusty’s 16-year-old brother Lucas Brandom who plays bass for opening act Final Crush said, “It’s great to play for Dusty. This summer we climbed a mountain in Borneo for awareness and now we are doing this concert. We just do everything we can.” Brandom is referring to Coalition Duchenne’s Expedition Mt Kinabalu which in August brought together 35 international climbers from nine countries to climb Mt Kinabalu (13,455ft) the second highest mountain in SE Asia.

Dusty and his family made the most of 2011. In addition to travelling to Borneo, in June he travelled with his family to Washington D.C. to visit President Obama. The trip was arranged by the Orange County Chapter of the Make A Wish Foundation. “It was exciting. We had an all access tour of the White House ending up outside the Oval Office. Hilary Clinton came out from meeting with the President and said ‘Hi’. Then the President said: ‘Come on in Dusty, I’ve heard all about you’. We spent 20 minutes with President Obama and told him all about Duchenne and our family background and adventures.”

Catherine Jayasuriya, the Coalition Duchenne founder said: “20,000 boys are born each year with Duchenne, more than 50 each day. One afternoon Dusty and I were talking about how cool it would be
to finally find a cure for Duchenne, so that boys like him could live longer lives. We reflected on the last few years and realized that what we needed most was global awareness and money for research.” Said “We decided that moving forward, we are stronger if we all come together as humans, as a force, as a coalition, bringing together not just Duchenne charities, but everyone. We need to focus on changing the course, taking our quest to another level.”

“It is wonderful that everyone is coming together to support Dusty. He faces tremendous challenges but has is buoyed by the spirit in these events. After this the musicians will all go into the studio or on tour. I know they will take a bit of Dusty with them. Meanwhile Dusty will be checking into the CHOC ICU as his doctors introduce new heart meds. He will take some of their music with him.”
Tickets cost $20 and can be purchased online (www.galaxytheatre.com). The event also will include a raffle. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

Jayasuriya founded Coalition Duchenne in 2010 (www.coalitionduchenne.org) to raise global awareness for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, to fund research and to find a cure for Duchenne. Coalition Duchenne is a 501c3 non-profit corporation.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a progressive muscle wasting disease. It is the most common fatal disease that affects children. Duchenne occurs in 1 in 3,500 male births, across all races, cultures and countries. Duchenne is caused by a defect in the gene that codes for the protein dystrophin. This is a vital protein that helps connect the muscle fiber to the cell membranes. Without dystrophin the muscle cells become unstable, are weakened and lose their functionality. Life expectancy ranges from the mid teenage years to the mid 20's. Their minds are unaffected.

For more information on the benefit concert, visit: http://www.coalitionduchenne.org/html/musicPower.html

Tuesday, November 08, 2011

Sights and Sounds: Band of Skulls, Twisted Sister, 'Led Zeppelin IV' at 40

Band of Skulls delivered a powerful, hard rocking set when I caught the trio at Coachella in 2010. Today's hard rock-minded post kicks off with a press release dated today detailing the band's forthcoming sophomore release and a related tour. I'm also hoping the band is back rocking out in Indio in April 2012!

Band Of Skulls To Release Second Album 'Sweet Sour' On February 21 2012


Band of Skulls to kick off U.S. tour in Austin on the Eve of SXSW 2012

First U.S. Single 'Sweet Sour' To Be Released In December


November 8, 2011 - Band of Skulls will release their highly anticipated second album Sweet Sour on February 21, 2012 via their own label, Electric Blues Records under exclusive license in the U.S. to Vagrant Records. Sweet Sour is the follow-up to their debut album Baby Darling Doll Face Honey which was universally embraced by the U.S. media with early supporters at Entertainment Weekly naming them "Your Next Favorite Band."

Following the success of Baby Darling Doll Face Honey, the band retreated to a studio in Norfolk UK to begin writing Sweet Sour. They returned to their home studio in Southampton to start the recording which they completed in Wales at Rockfield Studios. Sweet Sour was produced by Ian Davenport (Supergrass, Badly Drawn Boy) and mixed by Nick Launay (Grinderman, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Arcade Fire). Please see below for the complete Sweet Sour tracklisting.

On March 13, 2012, the band returns to Austin, TX on the eve of the SXSW Music Festival with a show at Antone's to kick off their first U.S. tour in support of Sweet Sour. The band's live show has been a constant highlight at previous festivals by the likes of SPIN (Best of Coachella) and Rolling Stone (Best of SXSW) amongst many others.

This past summer the band play the Bonnaroo Festival in Tennessee as well as two sold-out shows in Los Angeles and two sold-out shows in New York City. Nylon Guys was front and center at the first sold-out NYC gig and weighed in on the new album "based on the new tracks they played at Mercury Lounge last week, the Skulls want to show the alt-kids how real music should sound." Please see below for complete tour itinerary.

In December, the band will release the first U.S. single 'Sweet Sour' off of the new album which will be available as a download at iTunes and other digital download stores. Fans can click here for a first look and listen of a track from the new album 'The Devil Takes Care Of His Own.' The band created the unique kung-fu themed video to accompany this first listen from Sweet Sour.

Band Of Skulls are: Russell Marsden (guitar & vocals), Emma Richardson (bass & vocals) & Matt Hayward (drums).

BAND OF SKULLS 2012 TOUR DATES:
13-Mar TUE Austin, TX Antone's
16-Mar FRI Houston, TX Fitzgerald's
17-Mar SAT Dallas, TX Granada Theater
19-Mar MON Atlanta, GA Variety Playhouse
20-Mar TUE Nashville, TN Cannery Ballroom
22-Mar THU New York, NY Webster Hall
23-Mar FRI Philadelphia, PA Union Transfer
24-Mar SAT Washington, DC 9:30 Club
26-Mar MON Boston, MA Paradise Rock Club
27-Mar TUE Brooklyn, NY Music Hall of Williamsburg
28-Mar WED Providence, RI The Met
30-Mar FRI Toronto, ONT Phoenix Concert Theatre
31-Mar SAT Montreal, QC Corona Theatre
2-Apr MON Detroit, MI St. Andrew's Hall
3-Apr TUE Chicago, IL House of Blues
4-Apr WED Minneapolis, MN Fine Line
6-Apr FRI Denver, CO Ogden Theatre
7-Apr SAT Salt Lake City, UT The Complex (Grand Room)
9-Apr MON Seattle, WA Neptune
10-Apr TUE Vancouver, BC Commodore Ballroom
11-Apr WED Portland, OR Dante's
12-Apr THU San Francisco, CA The Fillmore

* We Are Augustines Support All Dates

Sweet Sour Tracklisting

1. Sweet Sour

2. Bruises

3. Wanderluster

4. Devil Takes Care Of His Own

5. Lay My Head Down

6. You Aren't Pretty But You Got It Going On

7. Navigate

8. Hometowns

9. Lies

10. Close To Nowhere



EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT TO RELEASE THE ULTIMATE TWISTED SISTER BOX

TWISTED SISTER FROM THE BARS TO THE STARS: THREE DECADES LIVE


New York, NY (November 8, 2011)— Eagle Rock Entertainment will celebrate Christmas early this year with the release of Twisted Sister From The Bars To The Stars: Three Decades Live, a 5-DVD boxed set, on November 8 [MSRP $59.98]. The lavish package comes complete with curios such as a Twisted Sister Christmas ornament, an official “New York Steel” backstage pass, a classic two and a half-inch Twisted Sister pin and a reproduction of the first-ever SMF Fan Club letter.

Over eight hours long, From The Bars To The Stars has to be considered the ultimate Twisted Sister boxed set. One of the five DVDs, Twisted Xmas: Live In Las Vegas, is a total exclusive, having never before been released in any format. This 2009 concert showcases the band performing such beloved holiday fare as “White Christmas” and “Come All Ye Faithful” next to “Burn In Hell” and “Deck The Halls” as only Twisted Sister can. In fact, Jay Jay French, Dee Snider, Mark Mendoza, A.J. Perro and Eddie Ojeda, have made this holiday merriment a metal tradition for the past few years.

Live At Reading was filmed in 1982 at England’s biggest rock festival. A bonus 2011 band interview is included.


Double Live juxtaposes an early Long Island, New York show (North Stage ’82), filmed just prior to the band breaking internationally, and NY Steel ’01, the New York City 9/11 benefit they headlined.

Live At Wacken documents the band’s 2003 Wacken Open Air Festival reunion appearance in Germany. Complete with behind-the-scenes backstage footage and band interviews about their 1980s rise to world domination, break-up and reunion, it also contains their entire set on the big stage at this most prestigious of European Heavy Metal festivals.

Any SMF would agree – This is one boxed set no Twisted Sister fan can do without!


Finally, I got the following item from Rhino Records. I can't believe it has been 40 years since Led Zeppelin issued its fourth album (we won't even go into how long since the quartet's debut was released!)

Led Zeppelin IV at 40 - On Sale This Week on iTunes


40 years ago today, the greatest rock band of all-time released the greatest rock album of all-time, Led Zeppelin IV. A powerhouse from the legendary opening vocal intro of "Black Dog" to the final notes of the hypnotic Mississippi blues-infused "When The Levee Breaks," IV contains eight radio classics including "Rock And Roll," "The Battle Of Evermore," "Misty Mountain Hop," "Four Sticks," "Going To California," and, of course, the ultimate rock anthem, "Stairway To Heaven." "Hats Off" to Jimmy, Robert, John Paul, and John for creating a true work of art that only gets better with age.

For more details on getting the remastered masterpiece via iTunes, click here.

Sunday, November 06, 2011

Sights and Sounds: Steven Wilson, Creed, Paladino


'Grace for Drowning' photography by Lasse Hoile, design by Carl Glover

Brit-Rock Auteur Steven Wilson Readies First Ever North American Solo Tour

US Dates in support of ‘Grace for Drowning’ (Kscope) begin November 8, 2011 in Orlando, FL


Rock Renaissance man Steven Wilson has begun the first-ever tour under his own name, and will reach the U.S. for a run of dates on Tuesday, November 8, 2011. Celebrating the release of his second solo album, Grace for Drowning, “a double album filled with excellent songs and exquisite musical textures--some of which recall the glory days of King Crimson during their Lizard era.” (Dave DiMartino, Yahoo! Music), these tour dates resemble nothing else Wilson that has ever done with Porcupine Tree, Blackfield, No-Man, or Bass Communion.

The Grace for Drowning tour submerges fans in a rich sensory experience: rear speakers provide surround-sound effects, giant screens show off filmmaker Lasse Hoile’s films made specifically to accompany these songs, and cutting-edge lighting designs give texture to each song. The heart of the performance is Wilson (on keys, guitar, and vocals) and his virtuoso band: Marco Minnemann (drums), Nick Beggs (bass), Theo Travis (flute and sax), Adam Holzman (keys), and a special guest, TBD, on guitars. They will perform most of Grace for Drowning as well as selections from Wilson’s first solo album, Insurgentes.

Grace for Drowning notched a #13 debut on the Billboard independent album chart, #19 on the rock album chart, a #34 debut on the UK charts, and top-50 debuts in Poland, Italy, Norway, Germany, Austria, and Finland.

Additionally, Wilson
-Will appear for an in-store at J&R Music World in NYC on Friday November 11.
-Just released his first-ever iPhone App, available here:
http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/steven-wilson/id471256674?mt=8
-Completed work on 5.1 surround re-mixes of Jethro Tull’s Aqualung and Thick as a Brick, both scheduled for release soon.
-Finished his groundbreaking album with Michael Akerfeldt of Opeth, under the name Storm Corrosion. Album release and tour are scheduled for 2012, exact dates still to be confirmed.
-Completed his 5.1 surround remixes of King Crimson’s ‘Starless and Bible Black,’ and ‘Discipline,’ out now.

Grace for Drowning North American Tour
Nov. 8 - Orlando, FL - House of Blues
Nov. 10 - Baltimore, MD - Ram’s Head
Nov. 11 - New York, NY - Best Buy Theater
Nov. 12 - Philadelphia, PA - Temple PAC
Nov. 13 - Boston, MA - Berklee Performance Center
Nov. 14 - Montreal, QC - Corona
Nov. 16 - Toronto, ON - Opera House
Nov. 18 - Chicago, IL - Park West

Information: http://www.gracefordrowning.com


FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER CREED TO PERFORM 'MY OWN PRISON' AND 'HUMAN CLAY' IN THEIR ENTIRETY


Exclusive Back-to-Back Performance Events to be held in Chicago, New York and Philadelphia


Grammy winning rock giants Creed will hold special intimate two-night events in Chicago, New York and Philadelphia to perform their classic, multi-platinum selling albums My Own Prison and Human Clay in their entirety; front man Scott Stapp announced on “VH1 Big Morning Buzz Live.” The band will perform one album on each night of the special engagement along with hits from their albums Weathered and Full Circle. The events will be a once in a lifetime opportunity for Creed fans to see the band perform in an intimate setting. Tickets will be available on November 19, 2011 for more information and pre-sale info visit www.creed.com.


“My Own Prison and Human Clay are very special albums for us and I look forward to performing them for our fans. The songs bring back a lot of great memories for me and I hope for them too,” said front man Scott Stapp. 2012 marks the 15-year anniversary of Creed’s debut blockbuster album, My Own Prison, which has sold over 6 million copies to date. The follow-up, 1999’s massive global hit Human Clay has sold more than 11 million copies to date and features the rock radio mainstays “With Arms Wide Open” and “Higher.”

DATES:


April 13th Chicago Theatre (Chicago, IL) Creed performs My Own Prison

April 14th Chicago Theatre (Chicago, IL) Creed performs Human Clay

April 16th Tower Theatre (Philadelphia, PA) Creed performs My Own Prison

April 17th Tower Theatre (Philadelphia, PA) Creed performs Human Clay

April 19th Beacon Theatre (New York, NY) Creed performs My Own Prison

April 20th Beacon Theatre (New York, NY) Creed performs Human Clay

For more information visit www.creed.com.


RECORD RELEASE PARTY FOR PALADINO’S SELF-TITLED DEBUT ALBUM!

Paladino’s rootsy Americana sound draws upon country, folk, the blues as well as retaining a punk rock spirit. This vibrant musical blend arises from Paladino’s family-style collaborative approach that allows everyone to contribute their own unique backgrounds and influences.

Jonathan Harkham, who has been writing songs for years, has produced three albums on his own, including Darkcho, a project of Jewish folk songs one of which was covered by folk musician, Will Oldham. Harkham, who is a prolific painter as well as a musician, hand drew the group’s website (www.paladinomusic.com ).
Chris Isom contributes mesmerizing guitar leads that touch upon Sun Records, Mexican balladry and modern psychedelia. Although he grew up in New York and played in Garage and Anti-Folk bands Mooney Suzuki and Adam Green, Isom’s family hails from Lubbock, Texas. Rhythm guitarist Adrienne Isom’s vocals recall Wanda Jackson and Moe Tucker and reflect the unbridled enthusiasm she has for playing music, singing and life in general. The charismatic Annie Rothschild lends eclectic energy and pure Southern soul to the band. Her deep love for music comes naturally as her dad runs the Southern music label, Landslide Records.
The other beat-keeper of the group, John Rygiewicz, or Ryggy to his friends, has developed his distinctive drumming style through a number of bands. The Gene Krupa-loving Wisconsin native brings a jazz vibe to the music of Paladino.

With their first album done, Paladino is looking forward to getting out and sharing their songs, new and old. Isom views the band as part of a larger family of American music. “I know that we'd like to think, in some dimension, Bob Wills could sit down and tap his foot to a lot of this music, and maybe even throw in a few ‘ah ha’s.”

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15TH
Paladino Record Release Party
Villains Tavern
FREE/10pm
http://www.villainstavern.com
1356 Palmetto St. LA, CA 90013

Latest releases from Fountains of Wayne and the Ettes featured on new 'Music Worth Buying' episode

On the latest, just-posted episode of Music Worth Buying, TJR and I celebrate the latest releases from Fountains of Wayne and the Ettes. Enjoy!


Wednesday, November 02, 2011

Sights and Sounds: Smiths tribute, Deep Purple, Record Store Day update

The final list of artists set to be featured on an exciting new Smiths tribute is set, a recent performance by Deep Purple will be issued next week on CD, DVD and Blu-Ray, and I have more updates on Record Store Day-specific releases that will be issued on "Black Friday." Read on!


New Smiths Tribute drops December 13th from American Laundromat Records


The Wedding Present, Doug Martsch (Built To Spill), William Fitzsimmons,
Tanya Donelly, Telekinesis, Greg Laswell, and others cover The Smiths



American Laundromat Records has enlisted a herd of indie-rock luminaries — including The Wedding Present, Built to Spill’s Doug Martsch, Throwing Muses co-founder Tanya Donelly, Telekinesis and Stars — to contribute covers of more than 20 classic songs by The Smiths for a new tribute album to be released December 13, 2011.


The double-CD set is available for pre-order in three configurations: a $13 bundle, which includes the CD and a one-inch promo pin; a $20 bundle, which includes the CD, a limited-edition 7-inch with three more covers, a download of those tracks, and the pin; or a $35 bundle, which includes the CD, the 7-inch, the downloads, the pin, a T-shirt and a “private preview of the album.”


In a fitting touch, American Laundromat Records secured a photo of ’60s U.K. pop star Sandie Shaw for the cover art; Shaw was a favorite of both Morrissey and Johnny Marr who, in 1984, covered The Smiths’ “Hand in Glove.”

Pre-order link: http://www.alr-music.com/


Please, Please, Please: a tribute to The Smiths | Tracklist


Disc 1

1. “Panic” — Kitten

2. “Stop Me If You Think You’ve Heard This One Before” — The Rest

3. “What Difference Does It Make?” — Joy Zipper

4. “Shoplifters of the World Unite” — Tanya Donelly w/Dylan in the Movies

5. “Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want” — William Fitzsimmons

6. “I Won’t Share You” — Sixpence None the Richer

7. “Well I Wonder” — Sara Lov

8. “Half a Person” — Greg Laswell

9. “Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me” — Dala

10. “Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others” — Chikita Violenta


Disc 2

1. “Sheila Take A Bow” — Telekinesis

2. “Is It Really So Strange?” — Solvents

3. “Hand In Glove” — The Wedding Present

4. “How Soon Is Now?” — Mike Viola and The Section Quartet

5. “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” — Trespassers William

6. “Rubber Ring” — Girl in a Coma

7. “I Know It’s Over” — Elk City

8. “What She Said” — Katy Goodman (La Sera, Vivian Girls)

9. “ London ” — Cinerama

10. “Reel Around the Fountain” — Doug Martsch (Built To Spill)



Exclusive Limited Edition Bonus 7-inch (pre-order “B” & “C” customers only)

1. “Asleep” — Stars

2. “Girl Afraid” — C’est la Mort

3. “Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want” — The Caulfield Sisters


EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT TO RELEASE 'DEEP PURPLE + ORCHESTRA LIVE AT MONTREUX 2011'

~ ON 2CD, DVD and BLU-RAY NOVEMBER 8~



On July 16, 2011, Deep Purple performed on the closing night of Switzerland’s prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival by re-inventing their classic catalog with the help of a symphony orchestra. This night will forever be emblazoned upon the brains of Deep Purple fans around the world when Eagle Rock Entertainment releases Live At Montreux 2011 simultaneously in DVD [MSRP $14.98], Blu-Ray [MSRP $19.98] and 2CD [MSRP $17.98] packages on November 8, 2011.

The whole night has been preserved in crystal clarity via high definition for the DVD and Blu-Ray releases. The sound on the 2CD set—DTS Surround Sound, Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Digital Stereo—is superb. Included on the DVD and Blu-Ray is a bonus in-depth band interview. Such classics as “Highway Star,” “Strange Kind of Woman,” “Lazy,” “Perfect Strangers,” “Hush,” “Woman From Tokyo,” “Black Night,” “Smoke On The Water” and 11 other gems, as performed with the orchestral sweep behind them, certainly spurred the band on. Ian Gillan (vocals), Ian Paice (drums), Roger Glover (bass), Steve Morse (guitar) and Don Airey (keyboards) can be seen visibly pleased with the results of the orchestra, as directed by Stephen “BK” Bentley-Klein.

This 115-minute concert is emblematic of the kind of shows that Deep Purple has been putting on with amazing consistency as they criss-cross the globe. It’s what their fans have come to expect. The current orchestra tour has proven them capable of transcending genre limitations to reach out for the kind of all-encompassing theatrical presentation that’s hard to forget. Now, with this release, Deep Purple fans around the globe can thrill to this extraordinary pairing of symphonic textures and the hardest of Classic Rock.

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, Los Angeles, Toronto, Hamburg, & Paris.



DANGERBIRD CELEBRATES RECORD STORE DAY’S “BACK TO BLACK FRIDAY” WITH NEW VINYL FROM SILVERSUN PICKUPS & SEA WOLF

Exclusive, Rare & Previously Unreleased Tracks on
Wax to Hit Shelves of Indie Stores on Friday, November 25, 2011



As music lovers gear up for the holiday shopping season, Dangerbird will celebrate Record Store Day’s upcoming “Back to Black Friday” festivities on November 25 with two brand new, exclusive vinyl releases at independent record stores across the country. Fans will get a taste of the latest music from Silversun Pickups with Seasick, a 10-inch vinyl release featuring three previously unreleased tunes—including the title track as well as b-sides “Broken Bottles” and “Ribbons & Detours.” On the same day, Sea Wolf will release two rare tracks with a 7-inch featuring “Song of the Magpie” and “Where The Wind Blows.” While serving as teasers for those who are eagerly awaiting new full-length LPs expected from both bands in spring 2012, these vinyl releases are putting the “black” in “Back to Black Friday” by supporting the mom and pop record shops that are so important to the music community.

“Back to Black Friday” is organized by Record Store Day, a cooperative project of hundreds of independent record stores in the USA, Canada, the UK, France, Germany and Holland. This year’s Record Store Day created the largest vinyl sale day in Soundscan history, while lifting the music sales for the entire music industry. “Back to Black Friday” will follow the “bigger-than-Christmas” success of Record Store Day’s annual April event. Most of the special releases are being issued as vinyl records, which have experienced a huge surge in popularity in recent years, spearheaded almost entirely by independent stores. The full rundown of rare items available at participating stores on “Back to Black Friday” can be found at www.recordstoreday.com.

While browsing at their favorite local record store on “Back to Black Friday,” fans can also check out some of the latest work from the Dangerbird family of artists, including Justin Meldal-Johnsen’s co-writing and production credits on the acclaimed new album from M83, Hurry Up, We're Dreaming. In addition, recent releases are currently available from Dangerbird’s eclectic roster of acts who have long supported indie record stores, such as Fitz and the Tantrums, Beady Eye, The One AM Radio, Boots Electric, Eagles of Death Metal, Minus the Bear, The Fling, Ben Lee, The Limousines, Dropkick Murphys, Jon Fratelli, and producer Tony Hoffer (Phoenix, The Kooks), among others. For more information, visit www.dangerbird.com.

Tuesday, November 01, 2011

Glen Campbell to be honored by Vince Gill, Brad Paisley and Keith Urban on Nov. 9

A tribute to Glen Campbell by several of country music's biggest modern-day stars is coming up on Nov. 9, 2011. Here are highlights of the official media release...


Vince Gill, Brad Paisley, and Keith Urban Pay Tribute to Glen Campbell on "The 45th Annual CMA Awards"


Reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year Brad Paisley and former CMA Entertainers of the Year Vince Gill and Keith Urban will pay tribute to Country Music Hall of Fame member and former CMA Entertainer of the Year Glen Campbell (pictured on the left) during The 45th Annual CMA Awards. The three guitar virtuosos' performance saluting the legendary singer/musician will be a highlight of "Country Music's Biggest Night™."

The 45th Annual CMA Awards, hosted by Paisley and Carrie Underwood, airs live from the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Wednesday, Nov. 9 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET) on the ABC Television Network. Previously announced performers include Jason Aldean, The Band Perry, Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Sara Evans, Faith Hill, Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Scotty McCreery, Sugarland, Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, Chris Young, and Zac Brown Band, plus Kenny Chesney and Grace Potter singing their hit collaboration "You and Tequila;" Rascal Flatts and Natasha Bedingfield singing their current hit duet "Easy;" Lionel Richie performing a medley of hits with Little Big Town, Rascal Flatts, and Darius Rucker; and co-hosts Paisley and Underwood in their first live televised-performance of their No. 1 song "Remind Me."

Campbell was named both CMA Entertainer and Male Vocalist of the Year in 1968, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2005. The legendary performer has sold more than 45 million albums and recorded such classic hits as "Wichita Lineman," "Gentle On My Mind," "Galveston," "By the Time I Get to Phoenix," "Southern Nights," and "Rhinestone Cowboy." As a musician, Campbell was part of the much-heralded Wrecking Crew that performed on a variety of artists' albums. His guitar prowess is featured on the Beach Boys' seminal album Pet Sounds and on Frank Sinatra's megahit "Strangers in the Night," among others. He acted alongside John Wayne in the movie True Grit, and hosted "The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour" on television from 1968-1972. Earlier this year, Campbell announced he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. He is in the midst of his successful Goodbye Tour after releasing his final album, the critically-acclaimed Ghost on the Canvas.

The 45th Annual CMA Awards is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the Executive Producer, Paul Miller is the Director, and David Wild is the writer. The special will be shot in high definition and broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound.

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Sights and Sounds: Record Store Day releases, Jon Anderson, Ricky Skaggs

Why get scared on Halloween when so much new music awaits? I went digging through the dark labyrinth of my inbox and unearthed a few gems to share. So if you have interest in the upcoming 'Black Friday' and other chilling updates, read on...


WARNER BROS. RECORDS AND AFFILIATED LABELS ANNOUNCE EXCLUSIVE VINYL RELEASES FOR NATIONAL RECORD STORE DAY ON BLACK FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2011



VINYL PACKAGES WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS, IRON AND WINE, TOM PETTY (PICTURED), THE BLACK KEYS AND ERIC CLAPTON



In keeping with its commitment to the annual vinyl bonanza that is Record Store Day, a celebration of the unique culture surrounding over 700 independently owned record stores in the U.S. and hundreds of similar stores internationally, Warner Bros. Records has announced that it will make several vinyl pieces available on November 25th (or Black Friday, if you speak retail), exclusively in honor of 2011's second annual Record Store Day. April saw the release of vinyl from The Flaming Lips, Devo, Mastodon, Sonic Youth, and others. The day after Thanksgiving, the following very special exclusive releases will go on sale in record stores across the country and at www.becausesoundmatters.com:


Red Hot Chili Peppers: Blood Sugar Sex Magik
Remastered and reissued for the first time in 20 years, this Anniversary edition of the SoCal funk-rock giants' classic 1991 album will be released on 140-gram red vinyl and is limited to 2,500 units domestically. Produced by Rick Rubin, Blood Sugar Sex Magik has sold more than 15 million copies worldwide and was the Red Hot Chili Peppers' introduction to worldwide popularity and critical acclaim, spawning several hit singles including "Under The Bridge" and "Give It Away."

$34.98



Iron and Wine: Live at KCRW
This live collection features Iron and Wine, fronted by Sam Beam, in an intimate on-air acoustic performance at Los Angeles' influential tastemaker radio station KCRW this past Jan 26, 2011. This intimate performance includes songs from Iron and Wine's current album Kiss Each Other Clean, and other favorites as well as audio from his interview with Jason Bentley. The package includes a limited-edition LP pressed in an edition of 2,500 copies only and a CD.

$24.98



Tom Petty: Kiss My Amps (Live)
This limited-edition LP features six live tracks from Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers' 2010 tour supporting their album Mojo - Petty's first album with the Heartbreakers in eight years. It includes "Sweet William," a B-side recorded live during the 2008 tour and referred to at the time by Rolling Stone as their "new favorite Petty song." Limited to 5,000.

$24.98



The Black Keys: Two-song 12" EP
The Black Keys' new record El Camino will be released Dec 6th on Nonesuch Records. Produced by Danger Mouse and The Black Keys, the album was recorded in the band's new hometown of Nashville. A limited-edition 12" of the already popular single "Lonely Boy," pressed on limited edition vinyl, will be available at independent retailers as part of Record Store Day, with another album track, "Run Right Back," on the B-side.

$10.98



Eric Clapton Blues Box
We are proud to present the definitive sound and vinyl offering of three of Eric Clapton's most celebrated blues explorations. This three album five disc box has been carefully recut for vinyl at Bernie Grundman Mastering by Chris Bellman and pressed on the finest grade 180- gram European vinyl for the highest quality analog sound imaginable. Box set includes: From The Cradle, Riding With The King and Me And Mr. Johnson, plus a unique 12" x 12" lithograph. Each box is beautifully packaged in a high quality paper wrapped design. This title is non-exclusive to Record Store day but limited to 2500 copies.

$124.98


About Record Store Day:
Record Store Day is managed by the Music Monitor Network and is organized in partnership with the Alliance of Independent Media Stores (AIMS), the Coalition of Independent Music Stores (CIMS) and celebrates the culture of independent record stores by playing host to in-store events/performances, signings and special product releases on a global scale on Saturday, April 17, 2010.

For more about National Record Store Day, please visit www.recordstoreday.com.




Open Doors Will Always Open Hearts... OPEN – The New Opus By Jon Anderson

Digital Download Available Now



Asheville, NC – Much to the excitement of music fans across the globe, on October 25, 2011 legendary YES vocalist Jon Anderson will release as a digital download an epic musical work entitled OPEN. A return to the long-form composition that Jon Anderson is best known for, (“Close To The Edge”, “Gates of Delirium”, "Revealing" and “Awaken”), OPEN is a 21-minute exhilarating musical journey; a pioneering effort that weaves intricate melodic and harmonic themes within a classical music framework whilst showcasing Anderson's iconic vocals and timeless melodies throughout. In many ways OPEN is a return to Jon Anderson's musical roots, as YES music continually flows through his veins, making it only natural to revisit now and again. Coupled with wonderful orchestration by his neighbor and good friend Stefan Podell, messages of peace, love, light and freedom are further explored within OPEN, making listening an uplifting and joyous experience!

" 'Forever taken to that place of understanding,' are the first lyrics of OPEN, as though I am always remembering my true musical journey. To create this work, I sat with my 19th Century guitar and strummed ideas last spring 2010. Songs just poured out of me that week, and before I knew it I had created a long form musical idea, and with the help of Stefan Podell's powerful orchestration, we put together what is now 'OPEN.'

It has 4 movements all intertwined, and seems to have a life of its own. For those who love this kind of music, I feel so happy to present it as one of many I hope to create over the coming years. My love 'Janee' has helped in production with her unique musical observations and her angel voice. I am so happy and thankful... Many Blessings." Jon Anderson - October 2011

In other news, Jon Anderson is currently on tour in the US and Canada with fellow former YES member Rick Wakeman. The legendary duo performed a series of successful concerts in the UK in 2010 in support of their critically acclaimed CD release 'The Living Tree', and have now brought their highly anticipated show to America! In December 2011 Jon will be performing select solo concerts in South America. Go to www.jonanderson.com/tour.html for more information. Lastly, Jon Anderson's latest CD release 'Survival & Other Stories' has been garnering rave reviews worldwide by critics and fans alike. You can purchase the CD at: www.amazon.com/Survival-Other-Stories-Jon-Anderson/dp/B004XIQHWU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1308606761&sr=1-1

Jon Anderson's OPEN is available as a digital download on October, 25, 2011 and can be obtained at:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/open-single/id474552662?ls=1

For more information: www.JonAnderson.com or www.facebook.com/thejonanderson


Music Icon Ricky Skaggs named Entertainer of the Year and Musician of the Year at 17th Annual ICM Faith, Family & Country Awards


"I always try to entertain folks with good clean fun and stories from my youth," says Skaggs of the Entertainer of the Year nod. "I always try to bring the gospel message of hope in Jesus Christ to our shows as well. I think now more than ever, people all over the country need hope. I'm very thankful to have won this award. I certainly look up to all of the people in this category. They are taking the gospel out to the folks who really need to hear it. Thanks again so much. It means a lot to me."

Music icon Ricky Skaggs was named Entertainer of the Year and Musician of the Year at the 17th Annual ICM Faith, Family & Country Awards Show held on Oct. 28, 2011. Held at Nashville's Schermerhorn Symphony Center, the star-studded evening included a memorable performance of "Somebody's Prayin'" that featured Skaggs, John Elliot and six members of the Nashville Symphony Orchestra. The track is from Ricky's July-issue CD, COUNTRY HITS BLUEGRASS STYLE. The show was co-hosted by GAC-TV's Storme Warren and Inside Edition's Megan Alexander.

This year marks Ricky's 50th in the entertainment field, and his rise to the top has been unparalleled in music history. From his days as a valued band member for artists like Ralph Stanley and Emmylou Harris, to the release of his first solo recording in 1981, Skaggs has taken his lively, distinctively American form of music out of isolation and into the hearts of audiences across the country and around the world. Skaggs was honored to be chosen from among the very best of musicians, and says: "It means a lot to have been included with pickers whom I so admire. I am honored to have won Musician of the Year." Credited with "single-handedly saving country music" in the mid-80s by renowned guitarist and producer, Chet Atkins, Skaggs has since blurred the edges of various genres, but maintained his unique musical individualism.

Ricky was honored by Power Source Magazine last week at their # 1 Awards Party held at the Wildhorse Saloon for "Someday Soon," a hit from last year's MOSAIC album. Skaggs has previously won the following ICM Awards: Musician of the Year, Christian Country Music Association - 1994, 1995; Musician of the Year - 2008; Inspirational Bluegrass Artist (with The Whites) - 2008; Mainstream Country Artist (with The Whites) - 2008; Mainstream Country Artist - 2009 and Inspirational Bluegrass Artist - 2010. The 14-time Grammy® winner has also been honored with eight Academy of Country Music Awards and eight Country Music Association Awards.

Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder hit the road next week for one show in Louisiana before heading North for seven engagements in Canada, November 4 - 12. They return stateside for shows in Virginia and Pennsylvania before Ricky embarks (with The Whites and family) November 28 on A Skaggs Family Christmas Tour. The seasonal tour, the entourage's eighth in as many years, is in support of A SKAGGS FAMILY CHRISTMAS VOLUME TWO, which was released last month. The 10-song disc features both studio and live recordings, and includes a bonus DVD filled with 26 performances of traditional seasonal favorites and new compositions. A Skaggs Family Christmas Tour concludes with an evening at Nashville's Schermerhorn Symphony Center on December 22. Information: www.rickyskaggs.com.

Speaking of the ICM Faith, Family & Country Awards Show, other major wins of the night included Lady Antebellum’s Hello World, in the Video category. Noted Dave Haywood of Lady A on their award: "This was a really emotional song and definitely the most dramatic video we've ever made. We are honored with the recognition from the Inspirational Country Music Award voters and we just appreciate the support of our fans. We want to give a shout out to Roman White, who directed this video and created such a powerful visual story for our song...big thanks to him as well."

Big Machine Label Group’s rising new superstar Justin Moore proved a winner with this year’s voters with Mainstream Inspirational Country Song honors being award to If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away. “This song is a gift from God,” he noted in acknowledging the honor. “I can’t think of a better way and a better place to win my first ever award so thank you very much and God bless you guys.”

Jeff Bates proved equally strong as a mainstream contender as he walked the Schermerhorn stage to receive Mainstream Country Artist top honors. Film honors went to Soul Surfer -- the dramatic true story of young surfer Bethany Hamilton’s deep encounter with God after losing her arm in a shark attack at the age of 13. Directed by Sean McNamara, who also co-wrote the screenplay with collaborative writer Deborah Schwartz, McNamara was at the Schermerhorn to accept the award.

An emotional highlight of the evening was the naming of The Fox Brothers as the recipient of the coveted Legend/Pioneer Award.

Information: www.ICM-Awards.com