Michael Fremer Album Review

Thanks to Michael over at http://www.musicangle.com/ for the exclusive rights to reprint this material.



ALBUM REVIEW:
Sufjan Stevens (recent release)
The Brooklyn Queens Expressway


Asthmatic Kitty Records AKR 278 180g LP+comic book


Produced by: Sufjan Stevens
Engineered by: Alejandro Vengeur
Mixed by: Sufjan Stevens
Mastered by: Ray Janos at Sterling Sound


Can an indie rocker do orchestral music? (When you're Sufjan, yes)

Guest Review by: Michael Fremer
2010-03-01



The indie rocker Sufjan Stevens brings a surprising and delightful buoyancy and sense of wonderment to his orchestral suite commissioned by the Brooklyn Academy of Music to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its “Next Wave” Music Festival. The original debut performances were in November of 2007.

The suite pays tribute of sorts, or at least explores musically, Mr. Stevens' reaction to the clogged and much reviled urban artery known as the Brooklyn Queens Expressway. While the road is now part of the Interstate Highway System (you know, a fantastic achievement brought to you by “the government” that conservatives insist can’t possibly do anything right), it was initially designed to connect the Triborough Bridge (now Robert F. Kennedy Bridge) in Queens with Brooklyn’s Gowanus Parkway.

The late Robert Moses designed the road, which bisected Brooklyn, destroying entire neighborhoods. He did likewise with the Cross-Bronx Expressway. His once shiny star has fallen. The original section of the BQE, and the soon to be replaced Kosciuszko bridge, which spans the once stinky (and perhaps still so) Newtown Creek forms one of the homeliest stretches of road to be found anywhere in the world.

While Sufjan Stevens wasn’t around or old enough to remember, when the original BQE opened, the area below was packed with both working class neighborhoods and a thriving industrial base.

Driving on the BQE back then, one looked out upon smoke belching factories and some that burned bright orange/blue flames of gaseous runoff atop tall, thin rods extending high in the sky. It was a sight.

Among the factories was the original EICO electronics plant where the famed tube amps and kits were designed and built.

There was also the 320,000 square foot Trunz pork products processing plant under the Kosciuszko bridge that emitted some of the foulest smells imaginable, easily distinguished from the car and other fumes.

To this day I can still smell the awfulness coming from that place, even though the closest I ever got was driving on the BQE with my father and sisters to Coney Island and Steeplechase Park. The pork products though, were apparently quite tasty.

All of this smelly, grizzly, ugly history cannot begin to prepare you for the beauty that Mr. Stevens creates here, beginning with a cacophonous drone perhaps meant to resemble traffic on the BQE. That’s followed by a gorgeous, if somewhat pompous fanfare that given the subject matter evokes a twinge of humor behind its grandeur.

Stevens the arranger has always had a deft hand with woodwinds and brass and he uses both here to evoke movement generally and traffic specifically but more subtly than Gershwin did in “An American in Paris,” for instance.

There are strains of Philip Glass’s “Koyaanisqatsi” in the high pitched dancing brass figures and following one of the few genuinely cacophonous outbursts in the piece, a dazzling display of Stevens’ fluffy-light meringue-like woodwind and brass arranging abilities to close out side one.

“Traffic Shock” opens side two with spark showers of a synthesized continuation of side one’s orchestral flow overlaid with woodwinds. Then, it’s back to the syncopated, loping, cascading orchestral figures that wind throughout the sprawling piece. As it heads to a conclusion, the music alternates between splashes of musical graffiti as brass figures explode and drip and passages filled with high drama.

All of that gives way to a lovely celeste interlude followed by more arpeggiated brass and woodwinds and a dazzling finale that does evoke Gershwin, which is surprising since I always thought Sufjan had more Copland in him.

The suite ends with a lovely, introspective solo piano denouement that looks back wistfully at the whole piece, evoking in soft tones, much of the preceding musical action, all of which revolves around hula hoop wielding super heroines and a fanciful science fiction plotline that one needn’t follow to be swept up and taken by the music.

We rarely look forward to rockers dabbling in the classical tradition, whether it’s Paul McCartney who produced some that was pretty good or Billy Joel who said he was going to but didn’t deliver.

Sufjan Stevens’ considerable and more importantly unique orchestrating abilities were obvious on his albums of songs. Here he’s managed to shuck completely the melodic songwriting conventions and constructions to which pop writers normally cling.

Even McCartney’s best “classical” works drifted back toward “tunefulness.” Stevens steers clear of triad based melodic convention here and while the work is evocative in some ways of Philip Glass, what ultimately shines through is the unique Sufjan Stevens musical personality that was remarkably well focused at the beginning of his recording career.

This is a rollicking, dynamic, playful and beautiful piece of music that flows far more effectively than does the BQE. It never gets bogged down in pop music convention and Mr. Stevens’ colorful orchestral arrangements continually delight the rhythmic and harmonic senses, aided by a superbly coherent live studio recording that’s somewhat dry and exquisitely clean and spacious. The LP mastering from a digital source by Ray Janos at Sterling is outstanding and the 180g pressing well-finished and quiet.

The LP packaging is worth a separate review. It’s a triple gatefold full color extravaganza that includes a comic book, an approximately 12”x12” full color glossy booklet containing psychedelicized photos of Brooklyn and the BQE that mirror the comic book’s hula-hoop/Robert Moses/nuclear sub sci-fi story line. Don’t expect an explanation from me! You’ll have to read the comic book and flip through the dazzling photos.

Sufjan Stevens’ BQE is also the soundtrack to a short movie of the same name that I haven’t seen. The vinyl suffices and is most enthusiastically recommended, regardless of your usual musical tastes.

Copyright © 2008 MusicAngle.com & Michael Fremer - All rights reserved Reprinted by permission

This Date In Music History-March 4

Birthdays:

Paul Mauriat (1968 #1 single chart "Love Is Blue") (1925)

Eric Allandale - Foundations (1936)

Bobby Womack (1944)

Chris Squire - Yes (1948)

Emilio Estefan - Miami Sound Machine (1950)

Chris Rea (1951)

Jason Newsted - Metallica (1963)

Richard March - Pop Will Eat Itself (1965)

Patrick Hannan - Sundays (1966)

Evan Dando - Lemonheads (1967)

Feargal Lawlor - Cranberries (1971)


They Are Missed:

Younger brother of The Bee Gees, Andy Gibb died in hospital, five days after his 30th birthday in 1978. His death from myocarditis (inflammation of the heart) followed a long battle with cocaine addiction, which had weakened his heart. In the United States, Gibb became the first male solo artist to chart three consecutive #1 singles with "I Just Want to Be Your Everything," "Love Is) Thicker Than Water" and "Shadow Dancing."



American songwriter Howard Greenfield died of a brain tumour in 1986 (age 50). Working out of the famous Brill Building with Neil Sedaka he co-wrote many hits including "Calendar Girl." "Breaking Up Is Hard To Do" and "Crying In The Rain" with Carole King. Also wrote TV theme songs including the theme to 'Bewitched.'

Richard Manuel (The Band) committed suicide in 1986 at the age of 41.

Village People singer Glenn Hughes died of lung cancer in 2001 (age 50). He was the original "Biker" character in the disco group who scored the 1978 #1 "Y.M.C.A."

In 2002, Doreen Waddell, singer with Soul II Soul was killed after attempting to run across the A27 in Brighton, England after being caught shoplifting.


History:

In 1955, jazz great Charlie Bird Parker played at Birdland in what would be his last public performance.

The winners of the first Grammy Awards were announced in 1959. Domenico Modugno's "Volare" was Record of the Year; Henry Mancini's 'Peter Gunn' was Album of the Year and The Champs "Tequila" won best R&B performance.

In 1966, John Lennon's statement that The Beatles were 'more popular than Jesus Christ' was published in The London Evening Standard. “Christianity will go. It will vanish and shrink. We’re more popular then Jesus now; I don’t know which will go first, rock ‘n’ roll or Christianity. Jesus was alright, but his disciples were thick and ordinary.” Christian group's in the US were outraged resulting in some states burning Beatles records. Lennon later apologized.



The Rolling Stones went to #1 on the US singles chart in 1967 with "Ruby Tuesday," the group's fourth US #1 single. "Lets Spend The Night Together" was the original A side but after radio stations banned the song "Tuesday" became the A side.



In 1970, Janis Joplin was fined $200 for onstage profanity by a Tampa, Florida judge.

Badfinger went gold with “Day After Day” in 1972.

Pink Floyd starts a three week U.S. tour in 1973 in support of their new album “Dark Side of the Moon.”

Hall & Oates recorded "Rich Girl" in 1976.

In 1977, CBS released The Clash's self- titled first album in the UK. CBS in the US refused to release it until 1979. Americans bought over 100,000 imported copies of the record making it one of the biggest- selling import records of all time.

The Rolling Stones recorded their "Love You Live" album in Toronto in 1977.

In 1978, the US internal Revenue Service carried out a dawn raid at the home of Jerry Lee Lewis and removed cars worth over $170,000 to pay off his tax debts.

In 1979, Randy Jackson of The Jackson Five was seriously injured in a car crash breaking both legs and almost died in the emergency room when a nurse inadvertently injects him with methadone.

Frank Zappa's son Dweezil and his daughter Moon Unit formed a band called Fred Zeppelin in 1982. Their first single was "My Mother is a Space Cadet."

Debbie Gibson started a three week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 1989 with "Lost In Your Eyes," her second US #1.

Kurt Cobain was rushed to hospital after overdosing on alcohol and drugs in a Rome hotel during a Nirvana European tour in 1994. Cobain had taken 50-60 pills of Rohypnol mixed with champagne; rumours on the internet claimed that Kurt was dead.

In 2004, Brian Wilson appeared at the Clyde Auditorium, Glasgow during his 11-date UK tour. The shows saw Wilson performing the full suite of songs from his unreleased masterpiece 'Smile' Wilson's 'teenage symphony to God.'

Jaheim was at #1 on the US album chart in 2006 with ‘Ghetto Classics’ the American R&B singer’s third album release.

The Doors concert album, “Live In Pittsburgh 1970” was released in 2007. The set captured a show from the band's final U.S. tour. Also the Doors issue, “Vinyl Box,” a seven-LP collection containing the original stereo mixes of all six of the group's studio albums, as well as the mono version of the Doors' self-titled debut.

An expanded edition of Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Street Survivors," commemorating the 30th anniversary of the '77 album's release (a tad late), was available in 2008. The two-CD collection includes the final live tracks recorded before the plane crash that killed three band members. There's also a previously un-issued Tom Dowd-produced version that Skynyrd rejected in favor of a self-produced effort they recorded later.

Instamatic Karma: Photographs of John Lennon was in bookstores in 2008. The volume was published by Lennon’s "lost weekend" lover, May Pang. "For years, only my closest friends got to see these photos -- which were literally tucked away in a shoebox in my closet," writes Pang in the book. Lennon’s “lost weekend” was a period in the ‘70s when the ex-Beatle and Yoko Ono had split. They later reconciled.

Rockabye Baby!, a company that produces mellow instrumental versions of popular Rock songs geared toward infants, released an album of reworked AC/DC tunes in 2008. “Rockabye Baby!: Lullaby Renditions of AC/DC “ features versions of "Highway To Hell" and "Back In Black." Is nothing sacred?

Britney Spears kicked off a world tour in New Orleans in 2009, her first concert tour for five years. The 27-year-old who dressed as a ringmaster in the show, featured jugglers, acrobats and martial arts dancers.

Music News & Notes

Paramore Limited Edition Vinyl

Paramore has announced that they’ll be releasing a limited edition vinyl record package including an LP version of Brand New Eyes and a 7" single of "Brick By Boring Brick."

The LP, pressed on jet black slabs of wax, is limited to 5,000 copies for the entire globe! The 7" is a picture disc featuring the image of wings from the albums booklet on the A side and Hayley’s handwritten lyrics on the flip side.

==================================

Flaming Lips Take ‘Embroyonic’ On The Road

Oklahoma-based rockers the Flaming Lips will play a slew of new tour dates in support of 2009's Embryonic, the band's 12th LP and first-ever double album. The equally psychedelic Stardeath And White Dwarfs will join the group at most of the shows, which begin in March in Austin, Texas, and end in July at New York’s Central Park SummerStage.

A stop at the Bonnaroo Music And Arts Festival is included in the currently 18-date tour. For this show, the Flaming Lips will play a full set in addition to a collaborative performance with Stardeath And White Dwarfs of Pink Floyd's classic album, The Dark Side Of The Moon. Prior to this show, the Flaming Lips will release a physical version of last year's Dark Side remake with Stardeath And White Dwarfs and guest musicians Henry Rollins and Peaches. The vinyl edition goes on sale April 17, and the CD version comes out May 4.

==================================

Skeletonwitch Limited Vinyl Release

Prosthetic Records is happy to announce Skeletonwitch's "Worship the Witch" 10" EPs have arrived. Pre-orders are shipping now and the rest of the limited pressing is up for sale now.

Originally released as a follow up to their first full length, "At One With The Shadows," SKELETONWITCH gained momentum by slef releasing this 4 song EP on CD that would later create their PROSTHETIC debut, "Beyond The Permafrost." This is the first time "Worship the Witch" is available on wax! The artwork has been reconfigured by John Baizley (Kylesa, Baroness)

Here is the breakdown of the color ways and limitations on each: Black Wax - 400 Copies * Yellow Wax - 200 Copies * Blue Wax - 200 Copies * Green Wax - 100 Copies (sold out through pre-order) * Clear Wax- 100 Copies (available exclusively through the band)

==================================

Johnny Cash Final American Recording Album A Hit

Johnny Cash's American VI: Ain't No Grave, the Man in Black's "final victory," according to USA Today, enters the Billboard 200 Albums charts next week at #3, marking the highest debut of the week with more than 54,000 units sold. The album also debuted in the #2 spot on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart.

The album, which closes out the Rick Rubin-produced and critically-acclaimed American Recordings series, was officially released on February 26, the day that would have been Cash's 78th birthday. Cash's Ain't No Grave shares the apex of the Billboard chart with Sade's Soldier of Love (#1) and Lady Gaga's The Fame (#2).

American VI: Ain't No Grave was recorded in the months leading up to Cash's passing on September12, 2003. The songs were drawn from all over the musical landscape and from various eras, and include Sheryl Crow's moving "Redemption Day," close Cash friend Kris Kristofferson's "For The Good Times," "Can Help But Wonder Where I'm Bound" by Tom Paxton, Bob Nolan's "Cool Water," the hopeful "Last Night I Had the Strangest Dream" by Ed McCurdy, J.H. Red Hayes and Jack Rhodes's "Satisfied Mind," Queen Lili'uokalani's song of farewell "Aloha Oe," and the never before heard Cash original, "I Corinthians: 15:55," written over the last three years of his life.

==================================

Lou Reed Classic Remastered For Vinyl, DVD Audio and Blu-Ray

Lou Reed has finalized details of the digitally re-mastered edition of his seminal 1975 album "Metal Machine Music." Reed will release the ground breaking album in the UK on April 19th on his independent label "Sister Ray" in the following three formats – double gatefold vinyl in quadraphonic sound, audio DVD and Blu-ray.

The album coincides with Lou Reed's Metal Machine Trio UK concerts at the Cambridge Junction (April 17), Oxford O2 Academy (April 18) and London Royal Festival Hall (April 19, part of the Ether Festival).

Lou did the digital re-mastering from the original multi-tracks with the help of world-renowned mastering guru, Scott Hull. This is a new and improved re-mastered version, and is different from all previous releases on the RCA, Buddha and Sony affiliated labels.

Ask Mr. Music by Jerry Osborne

FOR THE WEEK OF MARCH 1, 2010


DEAR JERRY: I was knocked out by the high values, and endless nuances affecting those prices, for the “Introducing the Beatles” album covered in your recent column.

I would very much like to have similar details and values for first state issues of “The Beatles Yesterday and Today,” with the Butcher Cover.
—Jesse Watson, Burlington, Wisc.

DEAR JESSE: Of course you'll be needing this information for both the monaural and stereo issues, right?

On the small chance anyone reading this is unfamiliar with the story, the first edition — also known as first state — of “The Beatles Yesterday and Today” sported what was by 1966 standards a highly controversial photo.

The front cover, described by the Beatles as having “their own brand of pop art satire,” pictures the four boys wearing butcher smocks, while surrounded by chunks of raw meat, bones, and pieces from toy dolls.

Commonly referred to as the Butcher Cover, reviewers, radio stations, and print media who received advance copies, swamped Capitol Records with complaints — to such an extent the company quickly recalled it and replaced the butcher shop image with a very mundane one.

The recall and cover switcheroo took place before record stores received copies, which means the Butcher Cover edition was neither commercially available nor sold in stores.

By modern standards, such an embarrassing imbroglio over a cluttered yet nontoxic photograph is clearly much ado about nothing.

On the bright side, the controversy did give birth to a very valuable collectible.

Monaural first state copies (T-2553) are now in the $5,000 to $7,500 range. Stereo first states are at least twice as rare as monos and twice as valuable: $10,000 to $15,000.


DEAR JERRY: There is something about a teener record I bought in the 1960s that has been nagging me since then.

Unfortunately, this is a flop that fell through the cracks, one no one seems to know a thing about. The title is “Submarine Race,” and the credit reads Danny & Gwen (Liberty 55490).

The issue is how familiar these two sound, especially Gwen, though I can't think of anyone named Gwen who recorded at that time.

I just found a copy on eBay, but the seller left no comments whatsoever. He obviously knows nothing more than I do about Danny & Gwen.

Might one or both of this duo be known under other names?
—Rusty Crutchfield, San Mateo, Calif.


DEAR RUSTY: Danny may not be known to you, though he does have about a dozen hits to his credit.

He is Jerry Naylor, best known in the '60s for “Stop Your Crying” (1961) and in the '70s for “But for Love” (1970) and “Is This All There Is to a Honky Tonk” (1975).

Briefly, Jerry sang with the Crickets in 1961, also for Liberty Records, two years after Buddy Holly's death.

Giving you Gwen's name at birth, Florencia Bisenta de Casillas Martinez Cardona, isn't much of a clue, but I think you know this talented singer better as Vikki Carr.

Five years later, Vikki landed in the Top 3 with her signature song, “It Must Be Him.” It and Dean Martin's “That's Amore” are the two featured vocals in the 1987 film “Moonstruck.”

In the years after “Submarine Race,” Jerry and Vikki each made many records, but never again recorded together.


IZ ZAT SO? Though most folks are never likely to see one, a precious few still-sealed copies of the first state stereo “Beatles Yesterday and Today” do exist. Quantity estimates vary, but most put the number preserved in the original shrink-wrap at no more than 10.

Should one of those pop up in a properly-run auction, the hammer would not likely fall until bidding reached the $40,000 to $60,000 range.

Jerry Osborne answers as many questions as possible through this column. 

Write Jerry at: Box 255, Port Townsend, WA 98368

E-mail: jpo@olympus.net

Visit his Web site: www.jerryosborne.com

All values quoted in this column are for near-mint condition.

Copyright 2010 Osborne Enterprises- Reprinted By Permission

Music News & Notes

Two Free Elliott Smith Downloads From Upcoming Reissues

On April 6, independent label Kill Rock Stars will reissue Elliott Smith's first and last full albums, completing its library of the late singer-songwriter's independent releases. To promote the reissues, the label has made a remastered version of "Last Call" (Roman Candle) and "Twilight" (From A Basement On The Hill) available for free download. http://killrockstars.com/

Roman Candle, Smith's first album, was recorded in his then girlfriend's basement, and, as the story goes, only because she convinced him to mail it in to Portland-based Cavity Search Records did it ever see the light of day. The Kill Rock Stars founder, Slim Moon, vividly recalls his first real encounter with Smith's music at Kill Rock Stars' Web site. For the reissue, Roger Seibel, along with the Smith family's archivist, Larry Crane, have remastered the album, known for its scratchy, lo-fi home production. Roman Candle will also see its first U.S. vinyl release through the KRS reissue. From A Basement On The Hill was the last album that Smith worked on before his death in 2003. It was released posthumously on ANTI-Records.

====================================

Band of Horses Announce New Album

Band of Horses return with their much anticipated third album, Infinite Arms, on May 18. But what label will release it? Possibly Sub Pop, who released their first two albums, but possibly not. The label hasn't been announced yet.

Touring members Tyler Ramsey and Bill Reynolds make their debut on record with Infinite Arms, which was produced by the band and Phil Ek, who worked on the band's past albums. All five members contributed to the recording process, causing frontman Ben Bridwell to state, "in many ways, this is the first Band of Horses record."

Band of Horses plan to tour long and hard throughout the rest of the year.

===================================

Genesis Guitarist Steve Hackett Announces Album Release

North America will soon see the release of Steve Hackett's new album Out Of The Tunnel's Mouth. The album is scheduled to hit streets on June 8th via InsideOut Music.

Released late last year in the world-renowned guitarist/composer's native UK, Out Of The Tunnel's Mouth is a rock album which features beautifully-sweeping symphonic sounds highlighted by Hackett's signature soaring guitar and unsullied vocals. The tracks contain a mélange of influences from classical to Middle Eastern and showcase Hackett's prowess as a composer with the ability to meld seemingly disparate styles.

In other news, Hackett will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame on March 15th in The 25th Annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 2010 Induction Ceremony alongside his Genesis bandmates from the classic line-up: Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, Tony Banks and Mike Rutherford. For more than three decades, Steve Hackett has been known for his innovative tone and extraordinary versatility as a guitarist and composer. He helped define Genesis' sound as lead guitarist in the classic line-up and went on to have a highly-successful career as a solo artist, and also as part of 80s supergroup GTR with Steve Howe.

===================================

Mr. Gnome Announce EP And Tour

Critically-praised Cleveland duo Mr. Gnome has announced U.S. tour dates beginning in March in support of a new EP due out later this month.

The EP, titled 'Tastes Like Magic' will be released on vinyl and digital download on March 16th. The new songs were recorded at Josh Homme's (QOTSA, Them Crooked Vultures) Pink Duck Studios in Los Angeles, where Mr. Gnome also recorded its recent album, Heave Yer Skeleton.

===================================

The Black Keys New Album Details

The Black Keys release their sixth full-length album, Brothers, May 18 on Nonesuch Records. The album arrives on the heels of three other acclaimed projects the band released in the past year: Dan Auerbach's solo effort, Keep It Hid, the debut LP from Patrick Carney's band Drummer, and Blakroc, a collaboration between The Black Keys and renowned MCs including RZA, Mos Def, Q-Tip, and Raekwon.

The band will support Brothers with a tour that includes a sold out performance at Central Park's SummerStage in New York City on July 27 (additional dates will be announced soon).

The New York Times has called The Black Keys' music "tough-minded, blues haunted songs," and the ghosts of Muscle Shoals inhabit Brothers' 15 tracks. Of the album, Auerbach says, "We like spooky sounds…like Alice Coltrane, where a dark groove is laid down. That's the headspace we tried to get into for this record."

===================================

Metallica Boycott

Metallica fans in Israel were excited when they learned that the band would return to the country for the first time in over a decade on May 22nd to play at the Ramat Gan stadium in Tel Aviv. However, their mood blackened when they learned about the excessive ticket prices.

Metal Israel reports that the show's "producer Marcel Avram is charging no less than 600 shekel for the cheapest seats (around $159 according to today's exchange rate) while floor seats are twice that price." Because of this an online drive via Facebook has been started by fans calling for a boycott of the show.

Over 500 fans have reportedly already agreed to boycott the concert. According to Metal Israel, "The initiators of the boycott state that Metallica tickets do not cost nearly as much as this in the rest of the world and assert that the promoter is trying to take advantage of loyal Metallica fans."

===================================

The Charlatans' Debut Album 'Some Friendly' Gets 20th Anniversary Re-Release

Beggars Banquet are re-releasing The Charlatans' debut album 'Some Friendly' this May to celebrate its 20th anniversary. The expanded edition of the record features a remastered version of the original album plus a 19-track second CD of single b-sides and complete BBC sessions from the John Peel and Mark Goodier shows.

The album's re-release coincides with Tim Burgess and co.'s performances at Primavera Sound Festival in Barcelona and The Roundhouse in Camden where they will play the album in its entirety.

Released in October 1990, 'Some Friendly' shot to number one in the UK charts and contained their breakthrough single 'The Only One I Know'.

===================================

Deerhoof to Release Two Vinyl Reissues for Record Store Day

In honor of this year's Record Store Day (April 17), Deerhoof are reissuing their 2003 album Apple O' and 2005 EP Green Cosmos on vinyl. Each comes with a download code for the album's contents, plus four bonus tracks. Apple O' is on blue vinyl, while Green Cosmos is on green vinyl.

Deerhoof's Greg Saunier wrote a note about the reissues and his relationship with independent record stores which can be read over at the Kill Rock Stars site. http://killrockstars.com/news/

=========================================
Ambitions to release new EP

Although they broke up in mid-2008, Ambitions recently found themselves in the studio recording for a compilation and decided to record new material for a 7" to be titled "Surface To Air." Here's the official word from frontman Jay Aust:

"This past December, we were asked to do a cover song for an upcoming Chain Of Strength tribute 7". Although we hadn't been an active band for some time, it was hard to pass up the opportunity to record again. Since our last show in Fall 2007, we have been busy with various musical endeavors (Jeff and John formed Daybreaker, Jake has been playing in Defeater and his new band DreamTigers, Keith has been touring with Energy, and I have been keeping busy with Unforgiven). Despite everyone's schedules, it has been a cool experience to get everyone together, especially given we are spread out over 3 states.


"The Chain of Strength compilation, which is being released by 1124 Records, will include a 2x7" vinyl and will also feature songs from our friends in The Geeks, Offsides, Reign Supreme, and others. Our contribution will be "There Is A Difference" off the True Till Death 7".


"While in the studio, we also decided to record a few new songs. In late spring, we will release a new 7" entitled Surface to Air. The recording is currently in progress at Getaway Studios (Bane, Shipwreck, Defeater) by Dan Rose and will be mixed by Jay Maas. Everything is going well and we should be wrapping up around the end of March. More release details and updates to follow.


"Lastly, we were recently given the opportunity to play a one-off show in Texas in June alongside With Honor. Having never had the chance to play the Southwest, we are very excited to get out that way! The show will take place June 18th @ The Abilene Civic Center in Abilene TX.


"Although not officially back together, we may do a few shows in support of the new release late spring/early summer. Hope to see you soon!"

=========================================

From Ashes Rise Return with New Live Album, EP and Montreal Reunion Show

Portland-based hardcore quartet From Ashes Rise called it quits in 2005 after a sturdy eight-year run. However, the band have returned with both a live album and their first shows in five years. On top of that, they have a new EP in the works.

As Punknews.com reports, the live album is going to be called Live Hell and was recorded in Los Angeles in 2005. The 13-track release is available now through iTunes, and will get a limited 500 copy vinyl release by Jade Tree on March 23.

=========================================

And Finally.....

Vinyl records making a comeback

New Music Releases - March 2, 2010

Buy New Vinyl Here:  http://www.insound.com/


A Girl Called Eddy - A Girl Called Eddy (vinyl reissue)
A Sunny Day in Glasgow - Nitetime Rainbows EP (vinyl)
A Weather - Everyday Balloons
Athlete - Black Swan
Benjy Davis Project - Lost Souls Like Us
Benny Andersson Band - Story of a Heart
Black 47 - Bankers & Gangsters
Black Water Rising - Black Water Rising
Blake Shelton - Hillbilly Bone
Borknagar - Universal
Bradley - MountainTigerWolf
Bridges and Blinking Lights - Heroes, Guns & Snakes
Caitlin Rose - Dead Flowers
Citizen Cope - The Rainwater LP
Cliff Richard & the Shadows - Golden Greats (3 CDs)
Cliff Richard - Vintage 2010
Clogs - The Creatures in the Garden of Lady Walton
Connie Francis - Golden Greats
DJ Khaled - Victory
Danny Elfman - Alice in Wonderland (soundtrack)
Danny Gokey - My Best Days
Dave Brubeck - Time Out (Vinyl)
Dean Martin - That's Amore
Dee Dee Bridgewater - Eleanora Fagan (1915-1959): To Billie with Love from Dee Dee
Dire Straits - Communique (vinyl reissue)
Easton Corbin - Easton Corbin
Editors - You Don't Know Love
Ella Fitzgerald - Simply Ella
Ella Fitzgerald - Sings the Cole Porter Songbook
Emma Pollock - The Law Of Large Numbers
Fela Kuti - London Scene / Shakara (reissues)
Fenn O'Berg - In Stereo
Flogging Molly - Live at the Greek Theater (2-CDs & DVD)
Foreigner - Can't Slow Down (Vinyl)
Frank Turner - Love Ire & Song (vinyl)
Gary Numan - Down in the Park: The Alternative Anthology
Golden Triangle - Double Jointer (vinyl)
Great American Taxi - Reckless Habits
Groove Armada - Black Light
Guitar Shorty - Bare Knuckle
Hank Williams - Lost Highway
Holmes Brothers - Feed My Soul
Jaguar Love - Hologram Jams (vinyl)
Jamie Cullum - The Pursuit (vinyl)
Jamie Foxx - Body
Japanther - Rock N Roll Ice Cream (vinyl)
Jason DeRulo - Jason DeRulo
Jimmy Hughes - Why Not Tonight: The Fame Recordings 2
John Hiatt - The Open Road
Josh Wolf ( of WHY?) - Jet Lag
Judas Priest - Sin After Sin (Vinyl)
Judas Priest - Stained Glass (Vinyl)
Lifehouse - Smoke & Mirrors
Lightspeed Champion - Life Is Sweet! Nice to Meet You (vinyl)
Little Boots - Hands
Loscil - Endless Falls
Madonna - Revolver (Single) (Vinyl)
Marley's Ghost - Ghost Town
Mastodon - Remission (vinyl)
Miles Davis - Live in Rome & Copenhagen 1969
Miles Davis - Warsaw Concert 1983
Mumford & Sons - Sigh No More
Natalie Merchant - Leave Your Sleep
Overnight Lows - City of Rotten Eyes
Owen Pallett - Heartland
Peasant - Shady Retreat
Peter Gabriel - Scratch My Back (2-CD deluxe edition)
Polar Bear - Peepers
Portugal. The Man - American Ghetto
Raheem DeVaughn - The Love & War MasterPeace
Ray Charles - Berlin 92
Rogue Wave - Permalight
Rogue Wave - Permalight (vinyl)
Sarah Silverman - Songs Of The Sarah Silverman Program
Sharam Jay - In My Blood
Shearwater - The Golden Archipelago (vinyl)
Shirley Bassey - EMI/UA Years 1959-1979 (5 CDs)
Shirley Bassey - Vintage 2010
Shooter Jennings - Black Ribbons
Strange Boys - Be Brave
Sun Ra - Space Is the Place (soundtrack) (2-LP vinyl reissue)
The Library Is On Fire - Magic Windows, Magic Nights
The Ruby Suns - Fight Softly (vinyl)
The Texas Tornados - Esta Bueno
These New Puritans - Hidden
Twin Tigers - Gray Waves
Various Artists - Almost Alice
Various Artists - Curious George 2: Follow That Monkey
Various Artists - Next Stop Soweto
Various Artists - Nigeria Afrobeat Special: The New Explosive Sound in 1970's Nigeria (3-LP vinyl box set)
Various Artists - Nigeria Special Volume 2: Modern Highlife: Afro Sounds & Niger=an Blues 1970-6 (vinyl)
Various Artists - Rounder Records 40th Anniversary Concert
Visage - Face: The Best of
Wendy & Lisa - Nurse Jackie - Season One Soundtrack
Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Skeleton (vinyl)
Yellow Swans - Going Places
Yo-Yo Ma - Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon (soundtrack) (reissue)




Watch for these CD sets on March 4, 2010

Bread - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Judy Collins - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Drifters - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Foghat - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Iggy & the Stooges - Move Ass Baby
Kix - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Men at Work - Live in San Bernardino
Ricky Nelson - Lonesome Town Complete Record Releases 1957-59 (3 CDs)
Todd Rundgren - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Slave - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Spinners (Detroit Spinners) - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Warren Zevon - Original Album Series (5 CDs)

This Date In Music History-March 2

Birthdays:

Lou Reed - Velvet Underground (1943)

Eddie Money (1949)

Jay Osmond - Osmonds (1955)

Dale Bozzio - Missing Persons (1955)

Mark Evans - AC/DC. He quit in 1977 after becoming tired of touring (1956)

John Cowsill - Cowsills (1956)

Jon Bon Jovi - Bon Jovi (1962)



Chris Martin - Coldplay (1977)


They Are Missed:

Born on this day in 1950, Karen Carpenter, vocals, drums, The Carpenters. She died on February 4, 1983 of anorexia nervosa.

French singer Serge Gainsbourg died of a heart attack in 1991. During his career, he wrote the soundtracks for more than 40 films.

Born on this day in 1948, Rory Gallagher, Irish blues guitarist. Gallagher died on June 14, 1995.

Born today in 1938 , Lawrence Payton, vocals, The Four Tops. Payton died on June 20, 1997.

In 1999, Dusty Springfield died after a long battle against cancer (age 59). The British singer had her first UK hit single in 1963 with "I Only Want To Be With You" plus over 15 other UK Top 40 singles.

Singer, songwriter Hank Ballard died from throat cancer in 2003. Wrote and recorded "The Twist," but it was only released on the B-side of a record. One year later, Chubby Checker debuted his own version of "The Twist" on Dick Clark's Philadelphia television show. It topped the charts and launched a popular dance craze.

Born today in 1943, Tony Meehan, drummer, The Shadows. Meehan died on11/28/05 (age 62) from head injuries sustained in a fall.

In 2008, Canadian guitarist, singer, Jeff Healey, died of cancer. Healey lost his sight to retinoblastoma, a rare cancer of the eyes when he was eight months old, resulting in his eyes being surgically removed. After living cancer-free for 38 years, he developed sarcoma in his legs. Despite surgery for this, the sarcoma spread to his lungs and ultimately was the cause of his death. Healey released over 12 albums, presented a long running radio show and worked with many artists including Stevie Ray Vaughan, Buddy Guy, BB King, ZZ Top, Steve Lukather, Eric Clapton and Ian Gillan.


History:

Bo Diddley had his first recording session at Universal Recording Studio in Chicago in 1955, where he layed down "Bo Diddley," which went on the top the R&B chart by the following June.

In 1960, after completing his national service and flying back to America, Elvis Presley stepped on British soil for the first and only time in his life when the plane carrying him stopped for refuelling at Prestwick Airport, Scotland.

In 1963, the Four Seasons became the first group to have 3 consecutive #1's in the US when "Walk Like A Man" started a three week run at the top.

The Beatles began filming what would become their first feature film 'A Hard Days Night' at Marylebone train station in London in 1964.

Also in 1964, Vee-Jay Records in Chicago created the Tollie label and released "Twist And Shout" by the Beatles.

At this year’s Grammys in 1974, Stevie Wonder won four awards: Album of the year for 'Innervisions', Best R&B song and Best vocal for "Superstition" and Pop vocal performance for "You Are The Sunshine Of My Life."



Terry Jacks started a three week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 1974 with "Seasons In The Sun." The song (written in French by Belgian, Jacques Brel), had English lyrics by poet Rod McKuen.

In 1975, a policeman who stopped a Lincoln Continental for running a red light in Los Angeles was surprised to find Paul McCartney at the wheel with his wife Linda. The cop detected a smell of marijuana and on searching the car found eight ounces of the drug. Linda was arrested for the offence.

A new digital audio system, a five-inch compact disc containing up to 1 hour of music was launched by Sony, Philips and Polygram in 1983.

Wham! started a three week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 1985 with "Make It Big," which eventually went on the sell over 5 million copies in the US.

In 1991, 21 years after it's first release "All Right Now" by Free made it to #2 on the UK singles chart after being re-issued to coincide with its use in a Wrigleys Chewing gum TV ad.

Madonna's "Rescue Me" entered the US hot 100 at #15 in 1991, making her the highest- debuting female artist in rock history.

In 1991, Mariah Carey started an 11-week run at #1 on the US album chart with her debut 'Mariah Carey.'

LeAnn Rimes went to #1 on the US album chart in 1997 with 'Unchained Melody, The Early Years.'

50 Cent started a nine week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 2003 with "In Da Club."

R. Kelly was at #1 on the US album chart in 2003 with ‘Chocolate Factory.’

In 2004, Metallica and Godsmack headed out on the "Madly In Anger Tour" across North America. "We look forward to completely annihilating America," says Godsmack's Sully Erna. Metallica also offers audio recordings of every show on their tour for sale within days of each performance via their LiveMetallica.com. website. "This technology enables our fans to get the best possible recording of the show, without having to hold a microphone in the air for the entire night," says drummer Lars Ulrich.

In 2007, Jimi Hendrix was crowned the 'wildest guitar hero' of all-time in a poll of music fans for Classic Rock magazine. Hendrix beat Keith Richards into second place, with Stevie Ray Vaughan in third. Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page made it to number four, followed by Dimebag Darrell, who played for several heavy metal bands including Pantera and Damageplan.

In 2009, Liverpool University launched a Masters degree on The Beatles, popular music and society. Liverpool Hope University claimed the course which looked at the studio sound and compositions of The Beatles was the first of its kind in the UK and "probably the world".

In 2009, U2 began a five-night run on CBS' Late Show With David Letterman to promote their album “No Line On The Horizon.” The set drops the following day. It’s the group’s first performance on Lettermen since ’01. O

Lifehouse roll out their fifth studio album in 2010 “Smoke & Mirrors.” It's the group's first effort since the addition of guitarist Ben Carey.

Music News & Notes

Paul McCartney confirmed for IOW

The Isle of Wight Festival is extremely proud to announce that the legendary Paul McCartney will be headlining the Main Stage on Sunday 13 June bringing this year’s festival, which takes place from 11-13 June, to a spectacular close.

Renowned the world over, Paul McCartney awoke a generation giving a fresh sound to rock n’ roll, changing the face of music forever, first with The Beatles and then as a critically acclaimed solo artist. Across a career that has spanned over 30 years, he’s penned some of the most famous tracks ever written, including 'Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’, 'Live and Let Die’ and 'I Saw Her Standing There’, meaning this year’s festival-goers will be in for something truly special as this living legend performs a rousing set.

Paul McCartney says: 'I always remember hearing such great things about this festival and it has such a sense of history with the likes of Jimi Hendrix playing there the first time round. This will be my first show on the Isle of Wight and I’m looking forward to a rollicking night of rock n’ roll'.

Paul’s live shows have reached a new legendary status in recent years garnering unprecedented reviews from fans and critics alike wherever he goes. He’s pushed boundaries, performed to millions and made global news with monumental shows including performances in Red Square, Russia, outside the Coliseum in Rome, performing live to a NASA space station and the largest outdoor show ever in the Ukraine.

The UK got a recent taste for Paul’s live show last Christmas when he bought his 2009 'Good Evening Europe’ tour to a climatic and memorable finale at London’s 02 Arena, his only UK show of 2009. Reviews for the show were phenomenal and prove that Paul McCartney is a live experience that no one should miss.

This special show at the Isle of Wight Festival is part of Paul’s all new 'Up And Coming’ tour which starts in the US in March and comes to the UK and Ireland in June.

In addition to Paul McCartney, other world-class artists performing on Sunday’s Main Stage include Pink, Editors, Spandau Ballet and Friendly Fires. Across the course of the weekend over 45 acts will take to the stage including Jay-Z, Blondie, The Strokes, Florence + The Machine, Biffy Clyro, Crowded House, Paloma Faith, Mr. Hudson, Orbital, La Roux, Marina and the Diamonds and many more.

=============================================

U2 top earners poll of 2009

U2 have been named at the highest earning band of 2009, according to Billboard’s annual poll.

Even though the Irish band’s latest release 'No Line On The Horizon’ had disappointing sales, Bono and the boys have still grossed more cash in US last year than any others.

The magazine claim that even though the 360° Tour is one of the most expensive ever U2 still made $109 million, which works out at approximately £71 million.

In second place was Bruce Springsteen with $58 million (£38m) and Madonna third with $48 million. Rockers ACDC came in fourth with $43 million dollars, followed by the Princess of Pop, Britney Spears, who earned $38 million dollars.

=============================================

Library Tosses Rare Vinyl Record Collection

The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Bicentennial Library decided to toss out its collection of vinyl record albums, some of which we found are worth a lot of money.

The old records are being sold for just a dollar apiece, but a music enthusiast got his hands on some albums that could be worth well over a thousand times as much.




=============================================

SOUNDGARDEN: Debut SUBPOP Single To Be Reissued For 'Record Store Day'

A limited-edition, orange-vinyl seven-inch reissue of SOUNDGARDEN's debut SubPop single, "Hunted Down" and the B-side "Nothing To Say", will be available at select independent record stores on "Record Store Day" (April 17).

"Record Store Day" celebrates the continued existence of independent record stores, mostly through live in-store appearances, performances and special limited-edition releases that will only be sold through participating stores on the day itself, which is April 17 this year.

=============================================

New Jeff Healey Studio Album and Live DVD Set For Release

Stony Plain Records announces an April 6 release date in the U.S. and Canada for Jeff Healey's final jazz studio album, Last Call, which showcases the beloved legendary musician performing the music that was his true passion in life: the classic jazz, swing and pop sounds of the 1920s-1940s.

Released with the participation and support of Jeff Healey's widow, Cristie, Last Call is a 14-track collection on which Healey plays multi-tracked guitar parts, trumpet and sings. On several of the songs, he's accompanied by Ross Wooldridge on piano and clarinet and Drew Jurecka on violin.

Hi Res Cover ArtConcurrent with this CD in Canada, Stony Plain will also release, Beautiful Noise, a concert DVD featuring Jeff Healey and The Jazz Wizards, his regular jazz performance band, originally recorded for the Toronto-based TV show, "A Beautiful Noise," in January, 2006. In the U.S., the Beautiful Noise DVDwill be released on March 23 and distributed by MVD Entertainment Group.

Last Call was Jeff's last jazz/swing recording before his death in March, 2008 of cancer. Mess of Blues, an album of his fan-favorite blues and roots songs released shortly after he passed away, won the Blues Award for "Best Rock/Blues Release" in 2009; and the Songs from the Road live CD,released in September of 2009, won the "Recording of the Year" at the 2010 Maple Blues Awards.

=============================================

EVANESCENCE To Enter Studio This Week

EVANESCENCE frontwoman Amy Lee has confirmed that the band will enter the studio this week with Grammy Award-winning producer Steve Lillywhite (U2, THE ROLLING STONES, PETER GABRIEL, CHRIS CORNELL) to begin recording its third album for a late fall 2010 release.

"I can't explain how excited I am to make this record," said Lee. "Over the past year and a half, these songs have become the center of my life, and I can't wait to hear what they grow into in the studio. I think our sound is evolving into something that will surprise people, in a very good way. I feel, as always, that growth can be an incredible, limitless thing if you let it. I never want to make the same album twice."

Top 5 eBay Vinyl Record Sales - Week Ending 02/27/2010

Week Ending 02/27/2010

1. 45 - Magnetics "Lady In Green" / "Heart You're Made Of Stone" Bonnie - $5,500.00

2. LP - Pink Floyd "Ummagumma" Japan Red Vinyl - $4,200.00

3. 12" - Ryvon DJ "I'm gonna dance (take me tonight) - $3,551.00

4. LP - Andre Cluytens "Ravel The Complete Orchestral Works" Columbia SAX 2476-9 UK Pressing - $2,794.67

5. LP - The Beatles "Let It Be" UK Box Set PXS 1 - $2,716.00

More on this week's top 5 on Vinyl Record Talk, Tuesday 7:00PM Eastern / 4:00PM Pacific on Radio Dentata.  Go to http://ccdiscoveries.blogspot.com for more information!

Music & Vinyl Record News

Brian Eno confirms he's working on new Coldplay album Band in the studio starting their fifth release

Brian Eno has confirmed that he is working with Coldplay again as they gear up to start recording their fifth album. Earlier this month frontman Chris Martin said he wanted to get the band's next album out by Christmas, and Eno has confirmed he will be involved again. The former Roxy Music man produced the band's last album, 2008's 'Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends', and told BBC 6 Music that he would again force the band's frontman to work separately from his bandmates as he did on that record.

============================================

Tiny Engines To Release Everyone Everywhere's Debut LP

Tiny Engines is pleased to announce that it will release the self-titled debut full-length from Philadelphia's Everyone Everywhere. The album, which will be released in vinyl and digital formats on May 4, 2010, is now up for pre-order from the label. Tiny Engines will press 500 12-inches on maroon and off-white colorways (350/150). The band is currently streaming two brand new songs, "Tiny Boat" and "Blown Up Grown Up," on its Myspace page.

Everyone Everywhere's eponymous debut builds on the rock-solid foundation laid down on last year's dynamic 7", "A Lot Of Weird People Standing Around."

============================================

Japandroids Announce 7" single series of unreleased songs!

After a string of triumphant debut shows in the UK last year, which saw the Vancouver two-piece bring their explosive live act to packed out audiences, Japandroids have confirmed they will return to Europe for a string of UK shows in May including an appearance at The Great Escape Festival. Having sold out London's ICA, 6 weeks in advance of their headline show next week, Japandroids will be playing The Garage when they return in May.

New May 2010 dates
Thursday 13th May - Saturday 15th May - The Great Escape, Brighton
Monday 17th May - DiScover @ The Harley, Sheffield
Tuesday 18th May - Jericho, Oxford
Wednesday 19th May - Joiners, Southampton
Thursday 20th May - The Garage, London

Additionally, the duo has announced they will be releasing a five-part series of 7" singles throughout 2010 on Polyvinyl Records. Each limited edition 7" will feature a previously unreleased track from the 'Post Nothing' sessions alongside a cover. Japandroids devised the 7" series as a way to give something back to their fans while the band is in the midst of heavy touring and unable to record a full album. Each two-song 7" will be recorded during the brief period of time the band is at home between tours.

First up, released on April 12th is 'Art Czars', the clear coloured vinyl will also feature 'Racer-X' - a Big Black cover and live favourite.

============================================

Joan Jett returns with a new album and The Runaways are about to hit the big screen

Joan Jett is a busy girl these days. First, Joan Jett and The Blackhearts are releasing the definitive double-disc “Greatest Hits” collection, along with double-disc vinyl on 3/9/10. The amazing thing is that the album release is coming out just in time for the March release of “The Runaways” movie, where Joan is also the executive producer. The two-disc collection contains eight songs featured in the film, “The Runaways,"including one previously unreleased track featured in the film. The album also includes rerecorded material featuring several Runaways favorites, along with re-mastered original material including such hits as “I Love Rock N’ Roll” and “I Hate Myself for Loving You,” “Bad Reputation,” and a cover of Tommy James & The Shondels “Crimson and Clover." www.therunaways.com

============================================

Unearthly Trance set to record new album

Unearthly Trance will begin work on their follow-up album to Electrocution this weekend in New York, New York. This will be the trio's fifth studio album, aptly titled V.

Unearthly Trance will begin recording at SIR Studios with engineer Sanford Parker overseeing the skeletal creation of the recording. The band will then continue to self-record with additional help from trusted experts along the way. V will also mark another twist on Unearthly Trance's sound, with slower paced riffs, raw sonics and even more progressed songwriting, the band is taking its sound towards creatively darker and strangely morbid realm. V will feature artwork by Glyn Scrawled and is expected to see a late spring release date via Relapse Records. Additional album details will be announced shortly.

============================================

Cast Spells Announce Clear Vinyl EP

Dovecote Records is elated to announce that they will be releasing the Cast Spells Bright Works and Baton EP on clear vinyl come May 4, 2010. Cast Spells is David Davison, lead singer of Maps & Atlases.
This is the first time the EP will be available on wax and has been re-sequenced to include an extra track called "All Brass" which appeared on a split 7" with Good Old War. The vinyl pressing of Bright Works and Baton is limited to 500. Bright Works and Baton is available digitally and on CD via Cast Spells' record label, Sargent House.

============================================

Steven Adler Recording New Studio Album

Original Guns N' Roses drummer Steven Adler is moving forward with his solo band Adler's Appetite with a new studio album. Here is what he had to tell fans via Myspace blog on Friday:

"We have been in the studio all week putting together new original music for a spring/summer release. The songs sound great! It feels so good to be moving forward! It's been a long time coming, but will be worth the wait.

"We will be debuting some of the new songs at The Key Club on April 10th. I want you all to be there! Plenty of time to plan your trip to Los Angeles."

============================================

Destroyer Albums Get Reissue Treatment from Merge Records

Dan Bejar's Destroyer project is getting some reissue treatment from Merge Records in the form of City of Daughters and Thief on CD and Streethawk: A Seduction on CD and vinyl. The release date is April 20th. Destroyer features overtly poetic lyrics surrounded by swirling melodies, verses weaving themselves into would-be choruses via abrupt changes amid yelps, synths, the ever present jangling guitars. It's like the poetry of a madman, in the best way.

============================================

SCOTT WEILAND To Release Live Album?

A spokesperson for Softdrive Records has informed BLABBERMOUTH.NET that details of Scott Weiland's live album have not yet been officially confirmed and will be announced as soon as they are available. The information below was taken from Best Buy's web site and should be treated as a rumor only. STONE TEMPLE PILOTS/ex-VELVET REVOLVER singer Scott Weiland will release a solo live album, entitled "Live In Los Angeles", via his own record label, Softdrive Records.

A release date for the effort has not yet been announced

============================================

This from Blabbermouth.net

THIN LIZZY, DEEP PURPLE, UFO, AC/DC Among Greatest Live Albums Of All Time

According to Gigwise.com, THIN LIZZY's 1978 double LP "Live and Dangerous" was voted the greatest live album of all time in a new poll.

Listeners of Planet Rock radio voted in the thousands on the poll, with THIN LIZZY's record beating DEEP PURPLE's 1972 classic "Made In Japan" to the top spot.

The full top 40 is as follows:

01. THIN LIZZY - Live & Dangerous
02. DEEP PURPLE - Made In Japan
03. UFO - Strangers In The Night
04. THE WHO - Live At Leeds
05. AC/DC - If You Want Blood, You Got It
06. IRON MAIDEN - Live After Death
07. PINK FLOYD - PULSE
08. PETER FRAMPTON - Frampton Comes Alive
09. KISS - Alive
10. GENESIS - Seconds Out
11. STATUS QUO - Live!
12. YES - Yessongs
13. JETHRO TULL - Bursting Out
14. HAWKWIND - Space Ritual
15. CHEAP TRICK - At Budokan
16. WISHBONE ASH - Live Dates (1973)
17. LED ZEPPELIN - The Song Remains the Same
18. QUEEN - Live Killers
19. RUSH - All The World's A Stage
20. RUSH - Exit Stage Left
21. LYNYRD SKYNYRD - One More From The Road
22. MOTÖRHEAD - No Sleep 'Til Hammersmith
23. HUMBLE PIE - Rockin' The Filmore
24. URIAH HEEP - Live 1973
25. LED ZEPPELIN - How The West Was Won
26. QUEEN - Live at Wembley '86
27. ASIA - Fantasia
28. RORY GALLAGHER - Irish Tour '74
29. WHITESNAKE - Live in the Heart of the City
30. ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND - Live at Fillmore East
31. SLADE - Slade Alive
32. METALLICA - S&M
33. THE ROLLING STONES - Get Yer Ya Ya's Out
34. FREE - Live
35. RUSH - Rush In Rio
36. THUNDER - 20 Years And Out: Hammersmith Apollo July 2009
37. RAINBOW - On Stage
38. "Woodstock" soundtrack
39. DAVID GILMOUR - Live in Gdansk
40. JUDAS PRIEST - Unleashed In The East

============================================

Phosphorescent returns with new album May 11

Phosphorescent Album: Here's To Taking It EasyFresh off a year where Willie Nelson was his ph-ocus, Phosphorescent is back with a new album of his own material, Here's To Taking It Easy, due May 11 on Dead Oceans.

Matthew Houck, the brains behing Phosphorescent has enlisted many of the key players from his To Willie covers album (2009) as new band members for the new album: Scott Stapleton - piano, Jeff Bailey - bass, Chris Marine - drums, Jesse Anderson Ainslie - guitar, Ricky Ray Jackson - pedal steel, John Natchez - horns and Heather McIntosh - cello (Natchez & McIntosh are studio help only, the rest will tour).

The album was recorded over 4 months in Brooklyn with Alex Lipsen last year and enlisted Stuart Sikes for some mixing assistance.

============================================

Former Hall & Oates Bassist Tom "T-Bone" Wolk Dead at 58

Hall & OatesSome sad news for you this morning: after suffering a heart attack on Saturday, bassist Tom "T-Bone" Wolk is dead at the age of 58. Best known as the consistent bassist for Hall & Oates, T-Bone had a varied career that ranged everything from hip-hop classics to TV work with the Saturday Night Live band. It's definitely a sad day, especially as he was supposed to perform with Hall & Oates on the upcoming Late Night With Jimmy Fallon anniversary show.

============================================

Tee Pee Records Announce Vinyl Reissues Of Two Karma To Burn Albums

Tee Pee Records has announced the vinyl reissues of "Wild Wonderful Purgatory" and "Almost Heathen" from legendary stoner rock pioneers Karma To Burn. Both albums will be released on April 6th 2010 and will coincide with Karma To Burn's April 2010 UK/European Tour. "Wild Wonderful Purgatory" and "Almost Heathen" will each come with a 10" vinyl of bonus material including demos from the first album, newly recorded versions of 20 and 30 and all new artwork by Alex Von Wielding.

============================================

Kivimetsan Druidi Reveals New Album "Betrayal, Justice, Revenge" Artwork

Finnish fantasy metallers Kivimetsan Druidi recently finished recording their new album “Betrayal, Justice, Revenge," which will be released via Century Media Records The artwork for the album can be viewed at this location. The fist pressing of the album will also contain new bonus tracks.

============================================

CATHEDRAL: U.K., Ireland Dates Announced

To celebrate the release of their latest album, "The Guessing Game", veteran British doom/stoner band CATHEDRAL has announced six live shows in late April/early May 2010. Taking in England, Scotland and both Southern and Northern Ireland, these dates will represent the group's first headlining gigs since the "Doomed Trinity" package of 2006.

Keeping in the CATHEDRAL tradition of delivering the best possible touring package it can, the band has announced the addition of Tokyo's heaviest sons of SABBATH, CHURCH OF MISERY, and the Orthodox-doom-meets-true-metal powerhouse that is Indianapolis's THE GATES OF SLUMBER.

And what a way to celebrate this anniversary: traditional CATHEDRAL cover artist Dave Patchett came up with one of his finest artworks in the band's history, mirroring the themes and musical quirkiness of the album itself.







============================================

The Get Up Kids 'Simple Science' EP vinyl release

The Get Up Kids return with the 'Simple Science' EP, a limited edition, numbered 10 inch vinyl containing their first new material in six years. The record will be released on 4/17/10 in the UK through Hassle Records. A CD version of the EP will be available later this summer.












============================================

This from Rolling Stone.com

You're So Vain-Part 4

Last week it seemed like the nearly four-decade-old mystery surrounding Carly Simon’s “You’re So Vain” was finally solved after the always-reliable (cough) U.K. press speculated that record exec David Geffen was the subject of Simon’s 1972 hit. As Rolling Stone wrote last week, Simon had previously promised that in a newly recorded version of “You’re So Vain,” the name of vain man in question would be revealed when the song was played backwards. The reverse lyric sounded simply like “David,” fueling rumors that Geffen, who allegedly favored Simon’s musical rival Joni Mitchell, was the focus of her hit. However, Simon tells Showbiz 411 that Geffen is not the “David” in question.

“What a riot! Nothing to do with David Geffen! What a funny mistake! Someone got a clue mistaken for another mistake,” Simon said in an e-mail to Showbiz 411. “How can this guessing game stop without a lie?” Simon adds that she never even knew Geffen in 1971 when the song was written, which if Simon has her timeline correct, means “You’re So Vain” was penned prior to when Simon’s label Elektra Records merged with Geffen’s Asylum Records in 1972, the date Geffen assumed control of the combined companies.

The Simon/Geffen feud didn't start until two years after You're So Vain was recorded. In addition, people who have heard the backwards version of the song say that you can also hear the name Warren whispered, which could be Warren Beatty. Seesm like we'll never know, I played the record backwards and heard the name Johnathan whispered, who the heck is that. Certainly all the press cannot hurt the sales of the record......

The new version of “You’re So Vain” is due on Simon’s upcoming disc Never Been Gone.

============================================

Lennon Used In Advert

People in England are up in arms over a new add by French automaker Citroen over an add featuring archive footage of John Lennon. The ads used dubbed clips of both Lennon and Marilyn Monroe saying that nostalgia is overrated ("Why all this nostalgia? Start something new. Live your life now."). People are posting in various venues saying that John would turn in his grave if he knew his image was being used in such a way and that "Yoko believes that John belongs to her alone."

============================================

Vinyl Collective Top 10 Sales of the past week

1 MICAH SCHNABEL ?When the Stage Light Goes Dim? LP Green w/ White (Minty) Vinyl 57 copies
2 ROCKY VOTOLATO / CHAD PRICE split 7″ Blue Vinyl 50 copies
3 THE MARS VOLTA “Frances the Mute” triple LP (original pressing) 38 copies
4 SUBURBAN HOME RECORDS Mix Tape Volume 2 “Greetings From The Left Coa” CD (5 Copi 30 copies
4 ROCKY VOTOLATO ?True Devotion? LP Clear/White Vinyl 30 copies
6 ROCKY VOTOLATO ?True Devotion? LP Blue/White Vinyl 22 copies
7 MICAH SCHNABEL ?When the Stage Light Goes Dim? CD 19 copies
8 MICAH SCHNABEL ?When the Stage Light Goes Dim? LP Deluxe Set 18 copies
9 MURDER BY DEATH “Good Morning, Magpie” LP Midnight blue 200 gram vinyl (FANCY) 16 copies
10 MICAH SCHNABEL ?When the Stage Light Goes Dim? DIGITAL ALBUM (mp3) 14 copies
11 ROCKY VOTOLATO / CHAD PRICE split 7″ BOTH COLORS 11 copies
11 KEVIN SECONDS/ JONAH MATRANGA split 7″ (hand #d/1000) 11 copies
11 BRENDAN KELLY / JOE MCMAHON ?Wasted Potential? LP / Coffee Mug 11 copies

This Date In Music History-February 28

Birthdays:

Marty Sanders - Jay and the Americans (1941)

Joe South - singer/songwriter, ("Games People Play"). Worked with Bob Dylan, Simon and Garfunkel, Aretha Franklin. (1942)

Ronnie Rosman - Tommy James & The Shondells (1945)

Eddie Manion - Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes (1952)

Cindy Wilson - B-52's (1957)

Phil Gould - Level 42 (1957)

Ian Stanley - Tears For Fears (1957)

Ian Brown - Stone Roses (1966)

Pat Monahan -Train (1969)


They Are Missed:

In 1968, Frankie Lymon was found dead at his mother's house in New York of a suspected drug overdose, he was 25.

Born today in 1942, Brian Jones, guitar, Rolling Stones. Jones died on July 3, 1969 after drowning in his swimming pool under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

Singer/songwriter Bobby Bloom shot himself dead in the head at his Hollywood apartment in 1974 (age 28). Bloom had the 1970 #8 hit "Montego Bay."

David Byron, singer with Uriah Heep died from an epileptic fit and liver disease in 1985 (age 38). Had a hit with "Easy Livin" from the 1972 album Demons and Wizards.

Chris Curtis, one-time Roundabout drummer, passed away in 2005. After Curtis left, Roundabout morphed into Deep Purple. Curtis is better known as the drummer for the British Invasion group, The Searchers ("Needles and Pins").

Mike Smith, lead singer with the Dave Clark Five, died of pneumonia in 2008.




History:

The Bobbettes recorded "Mr. Lee" in 1957.

The Yardbirds played at the Rhythm and Blues Festival at The Town Hall, Birmingham, England in 1964.

In 1966, police were called after over a 100 music fans barricaded themselves inside Liverpool's Cavern Club to protest at the clubs closer. The club had run up debts of over $10,000.

In 1970, in an interview with the New Musical Express, Fleetwood Mac's Peter Green talked about his plans to give all his money away. The following year Green confronted his accountant with a gun after he sent him an unwanted royalty check. The guitarist went to jail briefly before being transferred to an asylum and was committed to a mental hospital in 1973. He re- launched his career in the 90's.

Led Zeppelin played a gig in Copenhagen as The Nobs in 1970 after Eva Von Zeppelin a relative of the airship designer threatened to sue if the family name was used in Denmark.

Simon and Garfunkel started a six-week run at the top of the US singles chart in 1970 with "Bridge Over Troubled Water," which was also #1 in the UK in March the same year.



Rhythm Heritage went to #1 on the US singles chart in 1976 with "Theme From SWAT."

In 1977, Ray Charles was attacked by a member of his audience who tried to strangle him with a rope.

Eddie Rabbitt started a two week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 1981 with "I Love A Rainy Night."

In 1984, Michael Jackson won a record seven Grammy awards including: Album of the year for 'Thriller'; Record of the year and Best rock vocal performance for "Beat It," Best pop vocal performance, Best R&B performance and Best R&B song for "Billie Jean," and Best Recording For Children for E.T The Extra Terrestrial. The Police nab a couple Grammys for “Every Breath You Take” (Best Pop Performance and Song of the Year). In addition, they nail Best Rock Performance (“Synchronicity”). Also, Duran Duran are awarded a pair of video related trophies for “Girls On Film/ Hungry Like The Wolf” and “Duran Duran.”

In 1986, George Michael announced that Wham! would officially split during the summer.

In 1994, Eric Clapton played his 100th performance at London's Royal Albert Hall, in aid of the 'Children In Crisis', charity.

Phil Collins left Genesis in 1996.

Also in 1996 - The original members of Kiss appeared at the Grammy Awards. It was the first time in 17 years that the band had appeared in full make-up and costumes.

1996 Grammy award winners included Alanis Morissette who won album of the year for 'Jagged Little Pill' best female rock vocal & best song for "You Oughta Know," Nirvana's 'Unplugged' won best alternative album and Coolio best rap performance with "Gangsta's Paradise." Hootie & The Blowfish win Best New Artist. Meanwhile, the Allman Brothers Band’s “Jessica” earns the Best Rock Instrumental trophy.

In 1997, Death Row Records boss Marion 'Suge' Knight was sentenced to nine years in prison for violating his probation for a 1995 assault conviction. Under US law, Knight would not be allowed to run Death Row Records while in prison.

Celine Dion started a two week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 1998 with "My Heart Will Go On."

In 2008, Boy George pleaded not guilty to falsely imprisoning a male escort by chaining him to a wall. The singer and DJ was also accused of assaulting Audun Carlsen during the alleged incident on April 28, 2007. He was released on bail until a trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court in November.

The Arctic Monkeys were named the Best British Band and The Killers are the Best International Band at the NME Awards in London in 2008.

Singer Rome makes his debut as Sublime’s frontman at a show in Sparks, NV in 2009. The group hadn't performed since the ‘96 drug-overdose death of original frontman Bradley Nowell.

Michael Fremer Album Review

Thanks to Michael over at http://www.musicangle.com  for the exclusive rights to reprint this material.

ALBUM REVIEW:
Kenny Dorham (reissue)
'Round About Midnight at the Cafe Bohemia


Blue Note/Music Matters MMBLP 1524 2 180g 45 rpm mono LPs


Produced by: Alfred Lion
Engineered by: Rudy Van Gelder
Mixed by: Rudy Van Gelder
Mastered by: Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman at AcousTech

Review by: Michael Fremer
2010-01-01


How rare and collectible is this record? A mint original sold for $678.00 back in 2004. I doubt it sounds as good as this double 45rpm reissue but I can’t be sure since I don’t have one.

This 1956 monophonic release recorded live on May 31st 1956 at the Café Bohemia opens with a musical gesture familiar to all who love Cannonball Adderley’s Blue Note classic Somethin’ Else (BLP 1595) issued two years later: the opening intro to “Autumn Leaves” cops the intro to “Monaco.”

Of course that has nothing to do with why the original is so valuable or why this reissue is one of the Music Matters “must haves.”

The sadly underrated trumpeter who died when just 48 years old leads a then young group consisting of J.R. Monterose (then 29), Kenny Burrell (25), Bobby Timmons (19), Sam Jones and drummer Arthur Edgehill through a set of tunes recorded live at the New York club by Rudy Van Gelder who manages an astonishingly well-balanced recording under what must have been difficult conditions back then.

The gorgeous, thick, dark tone the group produces on the cover of “Round About Midnight” is alone worth the price of admission. It drips with melancholy.

The quick-paced “Mexico City” showcases Burrell’s clean lines and Timmons’ already accomplished abilities as a soloist and proficient background comping talent.

The chestnut “A Night in Tunisia” gets a swaggering, cowbell heavy reading that’s cool compared to the one Art Blakey gives it on the Blue Note album named after the tune. Here Dorham tears into the melody, scaling majestically above and below the basic line, as does Monterose.

It’s hard to believe this set is from 1956. It sounds fresh and contemporary today both musically and sonically and it confirms Dorham’s status as among the most underrated players of his generation. Miles Davis aficionados unfamiliar with Dorham would be well served buying this gem of a time capsule.

Of course Music Matters' packaging is first class as is the mastering and pressing.

Copyright © 2008 MusicAngle.com & Michael Fremer - All rights reserved   Reprinted by permission

Music News & Notes

More News About Stones' Release

The Rolling Stones’ Exile on Main Street is scheduled to be reissued on May 18 with 10 never-before-heard tracks, including “Plundered My Soul,” “Dancing in the Light,” “Following the River” and “Pass the Wine." The disc also features alternate versions of “Soul Survivor” and “Loving Cup.”

"I went back in the archives and dug out a load of things," Mick Jagger told Rolling Stone about the new edition. "I added some percussion and some vocals. Keith put guitar on one or two."

The Exile on Main Street reissue will be sold as a CD featuring the original 18 tracks or as a deluxe CD edition with the 10 bonus tracks. The super deluxe package includes vinyl, a 30-minute documentary DVD and a 50-page collector’s book with photos from the Exile era.

======================================

Aerosmith Plans A Killer Restart

After announcing several festival appearances, Aerosmith has rolled out more tour plans with their "Cocked, Locked, Ready To Rock" tour of Europe. The Sweden Rock Festival is the band's first European date on June 10, followed by shows in the U.K., Romania, Greece, Holland, Belgium, Spain, France, Czech Republic and Italy.

"Back by popular demand with more spit and fire than ever before, we're coming across the pond and parting the waters as we go," says Steven Tyler.

"Aerosmith is going to be rocking in the U.K. and Europe this summer," adds Joe Perry. "Enough B.S. - we're coming and everything is going to be set at eleven."

Wonder if they are bringing professional wrestlers along to help with the hype?

======================================

This from http://themetalden.com/

METALLICA – Rare 1982 Demo Of “Hit The Lights”

TMD has received the earliest METALLICA demo ever unearthed. It is a recording of a rough ‘work in progress’ version of the classic song “Hit The Lights” off the groundbreaking heavy metal album Kill ‘Em All from 1983.

The song features Dave Mustaine on guitar, Ron McGovney on bass, Lars Ulrich on drums and James Hetfield on vocals. Hetfield still had not fully learned to play guitar yet and was only handling singing chores. As the story goes, McGovney soon left the band – only to be replaced by the greatest metal bass player of them all CLIFF BURTON – because he was being bullied by Mustaine… such as getting beer spilled on his bass guitar.

Not long after that incident, Mustaine himself was booted from the band by Ulrich and Hetfield for drinking too much and just being a general nuisance. Dave of course went on to form Megadeth with bass player David Ellefson in Los Angeles, California.

The rest as they say… is Rock N Roll history.

======================================

SLAYER, ALICE COOPER, MOTÖRHEAD, Others Confirmed For France's HELLFEST

The following bands have been added to this year's installment of the Hellfest, set to take place June 18-20, 2010 in Clisson, France:

AIRBOURNE
ALICE COOPER
ANNIHILATOR
AS I LAY DYING
BLASPHEME
CARCASS
DEFTONES
DOOM
ELECTRIC MARY VULCAIN
EXODUS
FEAR FACTORY
FIELDS OF THE NEPHILIM
HYPOCRISY
INFECTIOUS GROOVES
KALISIA
MASS HYSTERIA
MOTÖRHEAD
SAXON
SLAYER
STONE SOUR
TAMTRUM
THE DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT
THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN
UNEARTH

For a complete list of artists performing at this year's event, visit http://www.hellfest.fr/

Sounds like fun, book the airline for a trip to France!
======================================

Is Carly Simon’s “You’re So Vain” About Geffen?

Is the 'secret' no longer a 'secret'? Judge for yourselves. According to reports, Carly Simon's mysterious cut "You're So Vain" was about Warren Beatty, Mick Jagger and the singer’s ex-husband James Taylor, depending on who you ask.

Now (with a new record on the horizon) Simon has reportedly offered up a major clue thanks to a newly recorded version of “You’re So Vain." She has reportedly told Uncut that the vain man’s name would be heard when listeners played her new version of the track backwards. The U.K.’s Sun got their hands on the clip, and the backwards track simply reveals the name “David.” (Listen to the reversed clips here.)

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/bizarre/2869512/Carly-Simon-ends-Youre-So-Vain-riddle.html

The Sun speculates that the David in question is David Geffen who was the head of the label that released “You’re So Vain” (Elektra Records). The Dreamworks man’s full name is “David Lawrence Geffen.” He seems like the most logical candidate. However, I think maybe Carly is playing us all and the song was really about no one in particular :)

======================================

EXODUS – Reveal New Album Artwork

Bay Area (USA) forefathers of thrash EXODUS will be releasing their ninth studio album, Exhibit B: The Human Condition, this spring. Guitarist / songwriter Gary Holt checks in about what the band was looking to capture art-wise and why the final version chosen nailed it:

“We wanted to portray the violence of man at its finest, so we started with our own version of the Leonardo da Vinci sketch [of Vitruvian Man], but done the ‘EXODUS’ way! I was pointed in the direction of Colin Larks of Rainsong Design for the cover and he killed it! To me, the artwork represents man and his affinity for bloodshed, ignorance, and all-around ability to be led like sheep to the slaughter. The image fits the songs on this record perfectly. The whole layout is going to as sick as the record itself!”