Black Sabbath's 'The End' and Eric Clapton's 'Slowhand at 70-Live At The Royal Albert Hall' on 4K UHD set for release on Sept. 13, 2024

Check out the latest news from Mercury Studios. Fans of Black Sabbath and Eric Clapton will want to pick up these upcoming titles in September...Robert Kinsler

 

MERCURY STUDIOS PROUDLY PRESENT BLACK SABBATH THE END AND ERIC CLAPTON SLOWHAND AT 70-LIVE AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL ON 4K UHD ~September 13, 2024~

Pre-order Black Sabbath The End here Pre-order Eric Clapton Slowhand At 70 – Live At The Royal Albert Hall here

New York, NY (July 16, 2024) - Mercury Studios will unveil, for the first time on September 13, 2024, the 4K UHD releases of Black Sabbath The End and Eric Clapton Slowhand at 70 – Live at the Royal Albert Hall. The End formerly released on November 17, 2017 on DVD and Blu-ray, captured the final destination of that adventure – an unforgettable farewell show at the Genting Arena in Black Sabbath’s hometown of Birmingham. Filmed February 4, 2017, The End showcases the legendary line-up celebrating their storied career, marking the closure of a monumental chapter in rock history. With a hit packed set list including Iron Man, Paranoid, War Pigs and many more, the high production values, visual effects and pyrotechnics wowed fans, as the band delivered the most emotionally charged show of their lives. The 4K UHD includes the bonus feature The Angelic Sessions, an in-studio look at the band playing a selection of their favorite songs not played on tour. These intimate live sessions at Angelic Studios were recorded in the days after their final live performance, and mark the band’s final studio recordings. The End captures a once-in-a-career performance, an essential snapshot of musical history, and a fitting farewell to true innovators and original heavy metal icons, Black Sabbath.

TRACKLISTING 1. Black Sabbath 2. Fairies Wear Boots 3. Under The Sun / Every Day Comes And Goes 4. After Forever 5. Into The Void 6. Snowblind 7. Band Intros 8. War Pigs 9. Behind The Wall Of Sleep 10. Bassically / N.I.B. 11. Hand Of Doom 12. Supernaut / Sabbath Bloody Sabbath / Megalomania 13. Rat Salad / Drum Solo 14. Iron Man 15. Dirty Women 16. Children Of The Grave 17. Paranoid EXTRAS THE ANGELIC SESSIONS 1. The Wizard 2. Wicked World 3. Sweet Leaf 4. Tomorrow’s Dream 5. Changes Slowhand at 70-Live At The Royal Albert Hall was previously released on multiple formats including DVD and Blu-ray on November 13, 2015. This special landmark release, celebrating Eric Clapton’s 70th birthday at his favorite venue, includes career defining tracks like Cocaine, I Shot The Sheriff, Layla, Wonderful Tonight, Crossroads, Tears In Heaven, Hoochie Coochie Man and more. Following his 70th birthday in March of 2015, Clapton performed his 200th concert at London’s famous Royal Albert Hall in May, fifty years after his first performance there with The Yardbirds. Clapton’s 7-night run at the venue was acclaimed by critics and adored by the fans. The setlist blended vintage blues tracks and Eric Clapton classics from across his storied career. Eric Clapton has become synonymous with the Royal Albert Hall and this concert is the perfect combination of artist and venue creating a truly magical night for Eric Clapton fans everywhere.

TRACK LISTING 1. Somebody’s Knockin’ On My Door 2. Key To The Highway 3. Tell The Truth 4. Pretending 5. Hoochie Coochie Man 6. You Are So Beautiful 7. Can’t Find My Way Home 8. I Shot The Sheriff 9. Driftin’ Blues 10. Nobody Knows You When You’re Down And Out 11. Tears In Heaven 12. Layla 13. Let It Rain 14. Wonderful Tonight 15. Crossroads 16. Cocaine 17. High Time We Went Bonus Song Little Queen Of Spades

MERCURY STUDIOS Mercury Studios is a full-service production studio, focused on telling compelling stories through the lens of music. Current and recent projects include Oscar and BAFTA award nominated American Symphony, directed by Matthew Heineman for the Obamas’ Higher Ground Productions/Netflix, If These Walls Could Sing, directed by Mary McCartney for Disney+, My Life as a Rolling Stone for the BBC and MGM+, Shania Twain: Not Just A Girl for Netflix, This Town, a six-part series for the BBC from writer, creator, and executive producer Steven Knight, Linda Perry: Let it Die Here, which premiered at Tribeca Film Festival and the recently announced One to One: John & Yoko from Oscar and BAFTA award winning director, Kevin Macdonald. Mercury Studios also produced Sam Smith: Live at the Royal Albert Hall for BBC, Billie Eilish’s Overheated at the O2 London and Lang Lang Plays Disney for Disney+. Editorially independent, Mercury Studios is powered by Universal Music Group and represents the world’s leading catalog of music-related content, consisting of thousands of hours of premium music-driven film and television programming.

Summertime brings a wealth of sounds

The summer of 2024 is seeing a parade of highly-anticipated releases for music fans, including new music and deluxe reissues. Here is a roundup of several upcoming high-profile titles.

Artist: Deep Purple

Title: =1 (earMUSIC)

Tell me more: Set for release on July 19, Deep Purple's wonderful Bob Ezrin-produced return =1 definitely delivers on the British rock troupe's signature rock sound. Several enticing advance tracks from =1 have already been released, including the infectious "Lazy Sod," bewitching "Portable Door" and hard rocking "Pictures Of You." =1 will be released on a number of formats including CD+DVD (Digipak), audio CD, and several collectible vinyl editions. In connection with the release of =1, Deep Purple will perform more than 60 concerts across the globe as part of the band's "=1 More Time" Tour. Information: deeppurple.com.

Artist: Cat Stevens

Title: Foreigner (Interscope/Geffen/A&M)

Tell me more: Yusuf / Cat Stevens' classic 1973 album Foreigner has been remastered and will be reissued via A&M/UMe on vinyl for the first time since its original release as well as on audio CD and via streaming services on July 26. As noted in a media release, Foreigner showed enormous artistic ambition and courage with Cat boldly stepping away from his signature acoustic sound in order to freely explore the heat and love of the soul and R&B genres. Recorded in the heart of Jamaica, his fearlessness was rewarded with the album reaching No. 3 on both the U.S. and U.K. album charts. The album will be available on vinyl for the first time since its original release, on both 180-gram black vinyl and limited edition 180-gram blue vinyl, with a replica 12” lyric card insert. The blue vinyl pressing can be purchased exclusively at CatStevens.com, uDiscover Music and Sound of Vinyl. Foreigner will also return to CD for the first time since its reissue in 2000, complete with a 16-page booklet. The new remaster will also be available for streaming in both standard and stunning hi-resolution audio. The initial production run of the vinyl and CD versions will feature the super rare color front cover, originally released only on the original A&M pressings in 1973.

Additionally, his trio of iconic 1970s albums (Mona Bone Jakon, Tea For The Tillerman and Teaser and the Firecat) were released on limited edition color vinyl on July 5, 2024. Information: CatStevens.com.

Artist: Oasis

Title: Definitely Maybe (Big Brother Recordings)

Tell me more: Set for release on Aug. 30, the 30th Anniversary Deluxe Editions of Oasis' Definitely Maybe will be released on deluxe 4LP, 2CD, exclusive colored vinyl, digitally and even cassette. The expanded reissue features tracks from the British band's abandoned original recording session completed at Mono Valley Studios, as well as outtakes from the definitive album recording sessions at Sawmills Studios in Cornwall where the official debut album was recorded. All of the aforementioned formats will include the 2014 remastered version of Definitely Maybe as well; the enduring masterwork includes favorites such as "Supersonic," "Slide Away," "Live Forever" and "Rock 'n' Roll Star." Information: amazon.com.

Artist: Phil Collins

Title: Both Sides — 30th Anniversary edition (Rhino Records)

Tell me more: The fifth solo album from Phil Collins, Both Sides was originally released in 1993. Now the album will be reissued on Sept. 20 as a 5LP box set. According to a news release from Rhino Records: This deluxe edition contains the remastered full original album, cut at half-speed by Miles Showell at Abbey Road Studios, and is a compendium of early demo tracks from the recording of the album as well as rarities from the singles originally released on the album — "Both Sides of the Story," "Everyday" and "We Wait and We Wonder." Both Sides (All The Sides) brings this full collection together with live tracks from the era, such as “Can’t Turn Back the Years,” “Both Sides of the Story” taken from Collins’ MTV Unplugged performance, “Doesn’t Anybody Stay Together Anymore” and more, as one release for the first time on vinyl. The set is housed in a slipcase with picture sleeves and a 16-page booklet containing newly written and extensive liner notes by esteemed journalist Michael Hann. Information: rhino.com.

Artist: Keith Urban

Title: HIGH (UMG Nashville)

Tell me more: Acclaimed country music artist Keith Urban will return with his first new album HIGH on Sept. 20. According to a news release, HIGH is "a musical journey, intentionally sequenced through themes of what it is to be alive, human connection, cutting loose, huge hook choruses, hope, nostalgia, shredding solos, straight-up fun, and some personal life revelations." Fans interested in hearing music from the forthcoming album are in luck; "Wildside," "Straight Line," "Go Home W U" with Lainey Wilson and "Messed Up As Me" are among the advance tracks available to hear now. 

Information: keithurban.com.

Robert Kinsler

New music: The Aquabats!, Steeleye Span, Terry Adams

In this column, I highlight a diverse field of artists featured on outstanding titles available now.

Artist: The Aquabats!

Title: Finally (Gloopy Records / MVD Audio)

You might like if you enjoy: The Cars, Devo, Reel Big Fish

Tell me more: Anyone who caught The Aquabats! at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April knows just how much fun the Huntington Beach-spawned musical troupe is in concert. Released on June 21, 2024, The Aquabats!'s seventh studio album Finally fully delivers on the band's freewheeling and fun live shows and brings that undeniable party to a 17-track LP that will please the band's generations-spanning fan base known as "Aquacadets." The expansive sonic extravaganza — the band's first new album since 2020's Kooky Spooky...In Stereo — kicks off with the driving alt rocker "Whatever Forever!," a cut bolstered by melody and virtuoso guitar work. Other standouts include the pop-styled "Unicorn Babies!," sci-fi themed foray "Dr. Space Mummy!" (the latter among the highlights of the band's Coachella appearance), post-punk rockers "Algebro!" and "Roofus The Doofus!," electronica "Let's Go Live In A Cave!," comedic "Spider Love!," ska sortie "Sun Blocker!" and enticing melodic cut "Don't Make Me Run!"

The Aquabats! features the collective talents of The MC Bat Commander (lead vocals), Crash McLarson (bass guitar), Jimmy the Robot (saxophone, keyboards), Ricky Fitness (drums, percussion), Eaglebones Falconhawk (guitar, bass), Chainsaw The Prince of Karate (guitar, vocals), Cat Boy (trumpet, vocals) and Gorney (piano, keys, vocals, bass, guitar). Information: theaquabats.com and mvdaudio.com.

Artist: Steeleye Span

Title: Live At The Bottom Line, 1974 (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Fairport Convention, Richard Thompson, traditional Irish music, Solas

Tell me more: A previously-unissued performance by British folk-rock troupe Steeleye Span, Live At The Bottom Line, 1974 is an exciting and wonderful audio document of a performance captured 50 years ago that ranks as one of this year's most outstanding concert recording releases. The recording features instrumental standouts such as "Beg Your Leave," "Irish Jigs (Including Paddy Clancy's)," and a fiery medley ("The Musical Priest/The Silver Spear/The High Reel") as well as sweeping songs like the driving folk rocker "Alison Gross," the dazzling duet "John Barleycorn," the troupe's enticing #14 UK hit "Gaudete" and spirited fiddle-anchored closer "The Mason's Apron." The recording also introduces one of the sextant's most beloved songs, "Thomas The Rhymer," a perfect fusion of British folk and rock bolstered by bewitching vocal harmonies. The Scottish ballad "Cam Ye O'er Frae France," dark "Little Sir Hugh," the haunting "Saucy Sailor" and lovely "Summer is a Comin' In" are among the other wonderful tracks featured on the 74-minute set. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Terry Adams

Title: Terrible (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: NRBQ, jazz, GoGo Penguin, Vince Guaraldi

Tell me more: The first solo album from NRBQ founder Terry Adams has been reissued and remastered by Omnivore Recordings with four bonus tracks. Originally released in 1995, Terrible puts the focus on Adams' talents as a composer. Adams is backed by fellow New Rhythm & Blues Quartet bandmates Johnny Spaminato (guitar), Joey Spaminato (bass) and Tom Ardolino (drums) as well as a slew of other guests —  notably Marshall Allen (alto sax), Tyrone Hill (trombone) and Dave Gordon (trumpet). The track listing includes the bona fide jazz sorties "Toodlehead" and "Hilda," New Orleans-flavored "Venusian Sunset," cinematic "Yes Yes Yes," the sublime "Little One," beautiful ballad "Thinking Of You" and aptly-titled "These Blues." Two of the more interesting selections are the otherworldly "Distant Instant" and "Kalimba," which both feature Adams alone on dulcitone. The reissue includes new liner notes, remastered audio, and is available as a double-LP set, on audio CD and via digital. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Robert Kinsler

Tab Benoit to release first album in 14 Years!

Singer-songwriter/guitar master Tab Benoit is set to release his forthcoming album "I Hear Thunder" on Aug. 30. Details are below...Robert Kinsler

Photo cutline: Tab Benoit performing at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Sept. 1, 2022. Read Robert Kinsler's review of that concert HERE.

Photo credit: Bob Steshetz 

TAB BENOIT RETURNS WITH HIS FIRST ALBUM IN 14 YEARS 'I HEAR THUNDER' DUE AUGUST 30, 2024 WITH SPECIAL GUESTS LEGENDARY GUITARIST ANDERS OSBORNE AND GEORGE PORTER JR. OF THE METERS   ANDERS OSBORNE JOINS BENOIT ONSTAGE ON THE 'I HEAR THUNDER' U.S. TOUR PRE-ORDER 'I HEAR THUNDER' HERE

HOUMA, LA - Award-winning Blues guitarist Tab Benoit, is excited to announce that he will release I Hear Thunder, his first album in fourteen years. To complement the release, Anders Osborne will join Tab onstage when the I Hear Thunder national tour winds across the country, kicking off on July 10th in Raleigh, NC. I Hear Thunder is the long awaited release by Tab Benoit. It will be available on August 30th on Whiskey Bayou Records. Ten solid tracks that showcase Tab's original guitar style and the great songwriting of the Benoit / Osborne songwriting team. Benoit does more than just play the blues; he defines its future while paying homage to its rich past. I Hear Thunder is a must for roots music fans. Pre-Order it HERE, and be the first to get it. His last album, Medicine, released in 2014 and co-produced by the legendary Anders Osborne for Concord International, won three Blues Music Awards. Following this notable success, Benoit took a 14-year sabbatical from recording, entering a period of creative exile. This hiatus has only deepened the anticipation and appreciation for his return, illustrating his lasting impact on the genre. Benoit has always called Houma, Louisiana home. It is where he's made music for himself and others and where he fell in love with the Wetlands. In 2001, his energy shifted to preserving the Wetlands, replacing music as his full-time job. His efforts as a conservationist resulted in multiple accolades, one of which was the prestigious Governor's Award.  To bring focus to the plight of the Wetlands, Benoit created the Voice of the Wetlands All-Stars, pioneers of a sound and style indigenous to Louisiana's Wetlands. The All-Stars featured Cyril Neville, Anders Osborne, George Porter Jr., Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, Johnny Vidacovich, Johnny Sansone, and Waylon Thibodeaux. "I Hear Thunder" I Hear Thunder, his new self-produced album, will be released via Benoit's imprint, Whiskey Bayou Records, formed in 2017, with partner and manager Rueben Williams. Since its inception, the label has released albums by established artists such as Eric McFadden, Damon Fowler, Eric Johanson, Jeff McCarty, and Dash Rip Rock. Tab wrote and produced I Hear Thunder in his Whiskey Bayou Studio. Of the ten classic-sounding tracks three songs that will initially capture attention are the title track, "I Hear Thunder", the radio track "Why Why", and the song that penned as an apology to his fans "Overdue"    It's hard to believe that you still love me   And I know what I put you through   You held on for so long in my silence     What was I supposed to say to you   But my heart wants to make it clear     And my mind doesn't wanna hear     These words are long overdue. Guitar legend Anders Osborne's brilliance is showcased on every song of Tab Benoit's new record, adding a delicate touch that enhances the album's tone and texture. Anders will join Tab on the 2024 I Hear Thunder Tour, where the two will perform simultaneously, backing each other up as they forge through their vast musical catalogs. Notably, The Meters' bassist George Porter Jr. makes a guest appearance on three tracks, infusing his signature groove into the mix. Tab also proudly features his touring band on the record, with bassist Corey Duplechin and drummer Terence Higgins solidifying the powerhouse lineup.  Benoit's journey began in 1992 with a radio hit from his debut record *Nice and Warm*. Since then, he has received multiple Blues Music Awards and four Grammy nominations. Beyond the music, Benoit is celebrated for his years of activism, particularly concerning the Louisiana Wetlands and coastal erosion. He seamlessly intertwines his artistic brilliance with a profound commitment to environmental advocacy, ensuring his legacy extends beyond the stage into the heart of the land that inspires his bluesy soul. Benoit does more than play the blues; he defines its future while paying homage to its rich past.. Photo by Jean Frank i HEAR THUNDER  Tab Benoit - vocals and guitar Terence Higgins - drums Corey Duplechin - bass Anders Osborne - guitar on everything except "Overdue" George Porter Jr - bass on "Little Queenie" and "I'm A Write That Down" Recorded at Whiskey Bayou Studios Recorded Mixed and mastered by Tab Benoit    TRACK LISTING  1. I Hear Thunder 2. The Ghost of Gatemouth Brown 3. Still Gray 4. Inner Child 5. Watching the Gators Roll In 6. Overdue 7. Why, Why 8. Little Queenie 9. I'm A Write That Down 10. Bayou Man  PRE-ORDER 'I HEAR THUNDER' HERE TOURDATES HERE CONNECT WITH TAB BENOIT Website | Facebook | X | Instagram

‘80s New Wave Superstars Missing Persons blast into the past on 1982 live album!

Fans of New Wave and groundbreaking 1980s alt rock will want to get a copy of Missing Persons' forthcoming title "Live In Santa Clarita, CA - October 10, 1982"...Robert Kinsler

‘80s New Wave Superstars MISSING PERSONS Blast Into The Past On This Electrifying 1982 Live Album!

Los Angeles, CA – Experience the glory years of '80s new wave with the release of Missing Persons' captivating live performance from 1982! The iconic '80s new wave band, known for their blockbuster hits “Destination Unknown,” “Words,” “Walking In L.A.” and more, invites fans old and new to take a thrilling journey back in time with the official release of Live In Santa Clarita, CA - October 10, 1982. This brilliant vintage recording captures the band at the height of their powers, delivering an electrifying performance that is sure to reignite the passion and energy of the era.

Recorded just after the release of their blockbuster debut album, Spring Session M., this concert showcases Missing Persons in peak form. The band, featuring the dynamic vocalist Dale Bozzio, the massively acclaimed drummer Terry Bozzio, and future Duran Duran guitarist Warren Cuccurullo, captivates the audience with their innovative sound and magnetic stage presence. From the pulsating rhythms to the infectious melodies, every track is a testament to the band's groundbreaking influence on the new wave scene. For a taste of what’s in store, check out the album’s opening number, a vibrant and rousing rendition of “Mental Hopscotch,” which has been released to all streaming platforms today!

Stream/download the single: https://orcd.co/v4xzrvv

Dale Bozzio, the vibrant frontwoman of Missing Persons, continues to keep the band's flame burning brightly. Just last year, she released a new album, Hollywood Lie, that has been met with critical acclaim and has been performing at select shows across the United States, bringing the unforgettable sound of Missing Persons to a new generation of fans. Don't miss this opportunity to experience Missing Persons like never before. The 1982 live album will be available on all formats starting July 12!

Order the CD/Vinyl: https://cleorecs.com/search?q=missing+persons+santa+clarita

Pre-order/pre-save the digital: https://orcd.co/missingpersons_live1982

TRACK LIST:
1. Mental Hopscotch
2. Noticeable One
3. Words
4. Tears
5. It Ain't None Of Your Business
6. Bad Streets
7. Windows
8. Here And Now
9. Walking In L.A.
10. No Way Out
11. I Like Boys
12. Destination Unknown

New Music: The dB'S, Skeeter Davis & NRBQ, Fastball

New albums featuring under-the-radar heroes The dB'S, Skeeter Davis & NRBQ, and Fastball are featured in my column this week.

Artist: The dB'S

Title: Stands for deciBels (Propeller Sound Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: The dB's, Big Star, R.E.M., early Cheap Trick

Tell me more: Groundbreaking American rock outfit the dB's' 1981 debut album Stands for deciBels has just been reissued digitally as well as on audio CD and vinyl by Propeller Sound Recordings; the newly remastered album had never previously been released on vinyl in the U.S. 

The dB's / Photo by Stefan Wallgren

A true sonic bridge between power pop pioneers Big Star and college rock heroes R.E.M., the dB'S' glorious 12-track Stands for deciBels busts out of the gate with the driving "Black and White," a song that somehow blends jangly guitar rock, garage rock and new wave stylings in an artfully new way. Subsequent cuts on the disc include the hypnotic "Dynamite," psychedelic-minded "She's Not Worried," style-defying "Espionage" and "Cycles per Second," driving rocker "Bad Reputation" and exuberant "I'm In Love." The CD and digital editions of Stands for deciBels closes with the sumptuous "Judy," a single not included on the original release but available on a late '80s I.R.S. Records reissue. The dB'S (Peter Holsapple, Chris Stamey, Gene Holder and Will Rigby) are set to embark on their first national tour since 2012 on the heels of their studio album issued that year (Falling Off the Sky) when they perform at the Hopscotch Music Festival in Raleigh, North Carolina on Sept. 7, 2024. Information: propellersoundrecordings.com and thedbs.com.

Artist: Skeeter Davis & NRBQ

Title: She Sings, They Play (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: NRBQ, Skeeter Davis, She & Him, Emmylou Harris, the Davis Sisters

Tell me more: One of the more interesting and bold collaborations of the 1980s, Skeeter Davis & NRBQ's 1985 album She Sings, They Play has been released as an expanded reissue by Omnivore Recordings. A true fusion between the talents of acclaimed singer Davis and genre mash up-minded American rock outfit NRBQ, the album (released via vinyl, on CD and digitally) thrills across its entire gloriously-expanded run. Delights abound on the outstanding title,  including the traditional country nugget "Everybody Wants A Cowboy," heartfelt ballad "I Can't Stop Loving You Now" featuring Buddy Emmons' wonderful pedal steel guitar work, the lively duet "Ain't Nice To Talk Like That," the previously-unissued retro rocker "I Want You Bad," a rootsy heartfelt cover of "Someday My Prince Will Come," the Baroque ballad "How Many Tears" and previously-unreleased rockabilly cut "I Gotta Know." Also included on the disc are tracks recorded live at The Bottom Line in New York City on Oct. 18, 1985 — the date of the album's initial release — that are included on the audio CD and digital versions of She Sings, They Play; "Gonna Get Along Without You Now," "Things To You" and a bewitching take on Davis' own 1962 hit "The End Of The World" are particularly strong. The packaging contains updated artwork, photos from the recording sessions and liner notes from John DeAngelis. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Fastball

Title: Sonic Ranch (Sunset Blvd Records)

You might like if you enjoy: dada, Fastball, Goo Goo Dolls, Oasis

Tell me more: One of the most talented American rock bands to emerge at the dawn of the 1990s, Austin, Texas-based Fastball is back with a new album that recalls the trio's best work. Produced by David Garza (Fiona Apple, Rhett Miller), the new album titled Sonic Ranch (released on June 21) features a slew of memorable and diverse originals. The explosive first single "Rather Be Me Than You" is an infectious and hard-charging cut that is equal parts testosterone and melody. The aptly-titled "Daydream" is a sweeping mid tempo track recalling early Oasis. Fastball's talent at crafting top-tier ear candy is highlighted by the luxurious "Hummingbird" and buoyant "Let Love Back In Your Heart." The fast-paced "Get You Off My Mind" blends the band's signature melodic rock sound with a New Wave flourish that really works, while the countrified folk nugget "Grey Sky Blue" and Spaghetti Western-tinged "America" collectively showcase the ambitious range of Fastball. Other standouts include the harmonies-draped "On And On" and enchanting "The Island Of Me." Sonic Ranch marks a wonderful return for Tony Scalzo, Miles Zuniga and Joey Shuffield. Information: fastballtheband.com. 

Robert Kinsler

X announces final album "Smoke & Fiction" & sets forthcoming tour dates

Check out the infectious new single from X titled "Big Black X" (make sure to watch the official music video too!) and get news on the legendary band's forthcoming final studio LP and nationwide tour...Robert Kinsler 

OUR FINAL ALBUM, SMOKE & FICTION IN STORES AUGUST 2ND Photo credit: Gilbert Trejo Released today, the poignant first single “Big Black X” reflects on the early history of X, their life in Hollywood, and the events unfolding in the world during those formative years. As Exene reflects on the band's unique choice of their moniker, “X is a great band name; also a bad idea sometimes when it gets lost in print or on the marquee. Gotta have a sense of humor. We all did in the early days. Los Angeles was a carnival of weirdness back then, with left over traces of silent movie stars, long haired hippies, bikers, and brand new self-defined punks doing anything we wanted. When we started touring the country we found like-minded people everywhere, and somehow they all found us. Even if the X was lost on the old marquee.” Listen Here   From the blistering title track grappling with the chaotic state of the world to the nostalgic ode of "Big Black X," reminiscing on punk's golden era, each song on Smoke & Fiction is a testament to X's enduring legacy. With haunting melodies, pounding rhythms, and the unmistakable vocal interplay of John and Exene, this album is a fitting finale to a storied career. This is one of those moments to not miss. Join us as we celebrate the legacy of X and bid farewell to an era. Smoke & Fiction is coming—prepare to be amazed, one last time. Directed by Gilbert Trejo and Shane McKenzie.  Watch Smoke & Fiction $50.00 Pre-Order 6/24 - Los Angeles, CA - The Troubadour - SOLD OUT 7/6 - Kansas City, MO - The Uptown 7/7 - Omaha, NE - The Waiting Room 7/9 - St. Louis, MO - Del Mar Hall 7/10 - Milwaukee, WI - Turner Hall 7/12 - Minneapolis, MN - The Varsity 7/13 - Chicago, IL - Square Roots Festival 7/14 - Chicago, IL - Fitzgerald’s - SOLD OUT 7/16 - Detroit, MI - The Masonic 7/17 - Kent, OH - The Kent Stage 7/19 - Indianapolis, IN - The Vogue 7/25 - Los Angeles, CA - The Regent 7/26 - Los Angeles, CA - The Regent 7/28 - Costa Mesa, CA - Pacific Amphitheatre 7/30 - Solana Beach, CA - Belly Up 8/19 - Menlo Park, CA - The Guild Theatre 8/20 - Menlo Park, CA - The Guild Theatre 8/22 - Boise, ID - Knitting Factory 8/23 - Spokane, WA - Knitting Factory 8/25 - Portland, OR - The Aladdin 8/28 - Salt Lake City, UT - The Depot 8/30 - Denver, CO - The Summit 9/01 - Albuquerque, NM - The El Rey 9/22 - Derry, NH - Tupelo Music Hall 9/23 - Boston, MA - The Wilbur 9/25 - Albany, NY - Empire Live 9/26 - Rochester, NY - Water Street Music Hall 9/28 - Falls Church, CA - The State Theatre 10/1 - Patchogue, NY - Patchogue, Theatre 10/2 - Philadelphia, PA - Keswick Theater 10/3 - New York, NY - Town Hall 10/5 - Middletown, CT - Harbor Park 10/18 - Austin, TX - The Paramount 10/19 - San Antonio, TX - Empire Live 10/21 - Houston, TX - White Oak Music Hall 10/22 - Dallas, TX - Granada Theater 10/24 - Memphis, TN - Minglewood Hall 10/25 - Nashville, TN - Brooklyn Bowl 10/26 - Birmingham, AL - Iron City 10/27 - Atlanta, GA - Variety Playhouse 10/29 - Charlotte, NC - The Neighborhood Theatre 10/30 - Columbia, SC - The Senate Tickets ALPHABETLAND $23.00 Shop now Los Angeles $23.00 Shop now Wild Gift $23.00 Shop now Under The Big Black Sun $23.00 Shop now More Fun In The New World $27.00 Shop now