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.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Friday, February 26, 2010
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
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!”
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
“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!”
This Date In Music History-February 26
Birthdays:
Fats Domino (1928)
Paul Cotton - Poco (1943)
Mitch Ryder (1945)
Sandie Shaw - First UK act to win the Eurovision Song Contest with 1967, "Puppet On A String" (1947)
Jonathan Cain - Journey (1950)
Michael Bolton (1953)
Jaz Coleman - Killing Joke (1960)
John Jon - Bronski Beat (1961)
Tim Commerford - Rage Against The Machine (1968)
Timothy Brown - Boo Radleys (1969)
Erykah Badu (1971)
They Are Missed:
Sherman Garnes, from Frankie Lymon And The Teenagers, died during open-heart surgery in 1977.
Born on this day in 1932, Johnny Cash, country singer/songwriter who had a 1969 US #2 single with "A Boy Named Sue" plus 11 other US Top 40 singles. He had a TV Johnny Cash show in the late 60s–early 70s. Cash died of respiratory failure on September 12th 2003 (age 71). In 2010, “American VI: Ain’t No Grave, the sixth and final installment of Johnny Cash’s American Recordings series is issued on what would have been the legend’s 78th birthday. Produced by Rick Rubin, the set list includes covers of Sheryl Crow’s “Redemption Day” and Kris Kristofferson’s “For The Good Times.” There’s also the Cash original “I Corinthians: 15:55.”
Born today in 1945, Bob The Bear Hite, vocalist and harmonica player with Canned Heat. He died on April 5, 1981.
Cornell Gunter of the Coasters was murdered in Las Vegas in 1990 at the age of 53.
In 1997, songwriter Ben Raleigh died in a fire in his kitchen after setting fire to his bath robe while cooking. He co-wrote "Scooby Doo Where Are You" and "Tell Laura I Love Her."
Ex-Jimi Hendrix drummer Buddy Miles died at age 60 at his home in Austin, TX in 2008. Miles played on the legendary "Electric Ladyland" album and co-founded, with Hendrix, the short-lived Band Of Gypsys in ’69. He also performed with Carlos Santana, David Bowie and Stevie Wonder.
History:
In 1954, a US Congresswoman introduced a bill to prohibit the distribution of "obscene, lewd, lascivious or filthy" recordings. Guess that never caught on......
In 1955, LaVern Baker wrote to Congress and asked them to change the copyright laws to ban cover records of R&B tunes by white artists (her efforts are no more successful than the previous year's bill).
Also in 1955 Billboard reported that for the first time since their introduction in 1949, 45rpm singles were outselling the old standard 78's.
In 1964, the Beatles worked on the final mixes for "Can't Buy Me Love" and "You Can't Do That" tracks. The single, which was released the following month, topped the charts all over the world.
Guitarist Jimmy Page released a solo single in 1965 called "She Just Satisfies." It didn't chart.
Nancy Sinatra went to #1 on the singles chart in 1966 with "These Boots Are Made For Walking" (also a UK #1).
The Beatles 'Rubber Soul' was at #1 on the US album chart in 1966, the group's seventh US album chart topper.
The Rolling Stones' "19th Nervous Breakdown" was released in 1966.
The Beatles album "Beatles Again" was released in the US in 1970. It contained the song "Hey Jude."
Alice Cooper and kindred spirit, artist Salvador Dali, posed for a photo session in 1973. The finished result hangs in the Knoedler Gallery in NY.
The epic Eagles' LP "Hotel California" was released in 1977.
The Eagles went to #1 on the US singles chart with "New Kid On Town," the group's third US #1 hit.
After seeing U2 play at Dublin's National Boxing Stadium in front of 2,400 people in 1980; Rob Partridge and Bill Stewart from Island Records in the UK offered the band a recording contract.
Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' went to #1 on the US album chart in 1983. It went on to become the most successful album of all time with sales over 50 million copies.
Chuck Berry received a Lifetime Achievement Grammy in 1985. Additionally, "Dancing In The Dark" earns Bruce Springsteen a Grammy for Best Rock Male Performance. Tina Turner’s "What’s Love Got To Do With It" gets Best Pop Vocal Performance and Record of the Year.
Capitol Records released the first 4 Beatles albums on CD in 1987.
Toni Braxton went to #1 on the US album chart in 1994 with 'Toni Braxton.'
Lonestar started a two week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 2000 with "Amazed."
Alanis Morissette's third album "Under Rug Swept" was released in 2002.
Four Concerts for Artists’ Rights took place in the L.A. area in 2002. The concerts raise funds to repeal or change sections of the California Labor Code that hurt recording artists. The Eagles (drummer Don Henley is a prime mover behind the effort), Stevie Nicks, John Fogerty, No Doubt, Eddie Vedder and Beck perform.
Lou Reed, Kinks frontman Ray Davies and Patti Smith perform at the17th annual Tibet House benefit concert in New York in 2007. The event supports the organization's efforts to promote and preserve Tibet 's cultural heritage.
Fats Domino (1928)
Paul Cotton - Poco (1943)
Mitch Ryder (1945)
Sandie Shaw - First UK act to win the Eurovision Song Contest with 1967, "Puppet On A String" (1947)
Jonathan Cain - Journey (1950)
Michael Bolton (1953)
Jaz Coleman - Killing Joke (1960)
John Jon - Bronski Beat (1961)
Tim Commerford - Rage Against The Machine (1968)
Timothy Brown - Boo Radleys (1969)
Erykah Badu (1971)
They Are Missed:
Sherman Garnes, from Frankie Lymon And The Teenagers, died during open-heart surgery in 1977.
Born on this day in 1932, Johnny Cash, country singer/songwriter who had a 1969 US #2 single with "A Boy Named Sue" plus 11 other US Top 40 singles. He had a TV Johnny Cash show in the late 60s–early 70s. Cash died of respiratory failure on September 12th 2003 (age 71). In 2010, “American VI: Ain’t No Grave, the sixth and final installment of Johnny Cash’s American Recordings series is issued on what would have been the legend’s 78th birthday. Produced by Rick Rubin, the set list includes covers of Sheryl Crow’s “Redemption Day” and Kris Kristofferson’s “For The Good Times.” There’s also the Cash original “I Corinthians: 15:55.”
Born today in 1945, Bob The Bear Hite, vocalist and harmonica player with Canned Heat. He died on April 5, 1981.
Cornell Gunter of the Coasters was murdered in Las Vegas in 1990 at the age of 53.
In 1997, songwriter Ben Raleigh died in a fire in his kitchen after setting fire to his bath robe while cooking. He co-wrote "Scooby Doo Where Are You" and "Tell Laura I Love Her."
Ex-Jimi Hendrix drummer Buddy Miles died at age 60 at his home in Austin, TX in 2008. Miles played on the legendary "Electric Ladyland" album and co-founded, with Hendrix, the short-lived Band Of Gypsys in ’69. He also performed with Carlos Santana, David Bowie and Stevie Wonder.
History:
In 1954, a US Congresswoman introduced a bill to prohibit the distribution of "obscene, lewd, lascivious or filthy" recordings. Guess that never caught on......
In 1955, LaVern Baker wrote to Congress and asked them to change the copyright laws to ban cover records of R&B tunes by white artists (her efforts are no more successful than the previous year's bill).
Also in 1955 Billboard reported that for the first time since their introduction in 1949, 45rpm singles were outselling the old standard 78's.
In 1964, the Beatles worked on the final mixes for "Can't Buy Me Love" and "You Can't Do That" tracks. The single, which was released the following month, topped the charts all over the world.
Guitarist Jimmy Page released a solo single in 1965 called "She Just Satisfies." It didn't chart.
Nancy Sinatra went to #1 on the singles chart in 1966 with "These Boots Are Made For Walking" (also a UK #1).
The Rolling Stones' "19th Nervous Breakdown" was released in 1966.
The Beatles album "Beatles Again" was released in the US in 1970. It contained the song "Hey Jude."
Alice Cooper and kindred spirit, artist Salvador Dali, posed for a photo session in 1973. The finished result hangs in the Knoedler Gallery in NY.
The epic Eagles' LP "Hotel California" was released in 1977.
The Eagles went to #1 on the US singles chart with "New Kid On Town," the group's third US #1 hit.
After seeing U2 play at Dublin's National Boxing Stadium in front of 2,400 people in 1980; Rob Partridge and Bill Stewart from Island Records in the UK offered the band a recording contract.
Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' went to #1 on the US album chart in 1983. It went on to become the most successful album of all time with sales over 50 million copies.
Chuck Berry received a Lifetime Achievement Grammy in 1985. Additionally, "Dancing In The Dark" earns Bruce Springsteen a Grammy for Best Rock Male Performance. Tina Turner’s "What’s Love Got To Do With It" gets Best Pop Vocal Performance and Record of the Year.
Capitol Records released the first 4 Beatles albums on CD in 1987.
Toni Braxton went to #1 on the US album chart in 1994 with 'Toni Braxton.'
Lonestar started a two week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 2000 with "Amazed."
Alanis Morissette's third album "Under Rug Swept" was released in 2002.
Four Concerts for Artists’ Rights took place in the L.A. area in 2002. The concerts raise funds to repeal or change sections of the California Labor Code that hurt recording artists. The Eagles (drummer Don Henley is a prime mover behind the effort), Stevie Nicks, John Fogerty, No Doubt, Eddie Vedder and Beck perform.
Lou Reed, Kinks frontman Ray Davies and Patti Smith perform at the17th annual Tibet House benefit concert in New York in 2007. The event supports the organization's efforts to promote and preserve Tibet 's cultural heritage.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
New Invention Claims To Clean Vinyl Records
ran across this bit of information and if this works as it says it does (I will try and test it), it may bring old records back to life. I had seen something similar, you could also do this with wood glue, although it would be very expensive. Has anyone tried this product? If so, what were the results? Looks very interesting and I will follow up after I have tried the product.
New Inventions:
http://www.abc.net.au/tv/newinventors/txt/s2824854.htm
Record Revirginizer Website
http://www.recordrevirginizer.com/index.html
The university award winning RECORD REViRGiNiZER cleans your vinyl records and removes all the pops and crackles from your valuable record collection.
RECORD REViRGiNiZER isn't just a record cleaner, it restores your vinyl records back to their original condition by using a revolutionary anti-static polymer that acts like a facemask on the your vinyl records.
It's the closest thing to a miracle for vinyl record cleaning and restoration ever invented.
The Process
Many record cleaning products use brushes to get into the grooves, but sometimes these can just push the dirt around without actually lifting it out of the groove, or they may even push the dirt in further.
The Record Revirginizer is a viscous, non-toxic liquid that is poured onto one side of the vinyl record and massaged into the grooves so the whole side is covered. It seeps right to the bottom of the grooves where it uses adherence as it sets into a film.
It is then peeled off the record, taking with it the grit and grease that has accumulated in the grooves.
Record Revirginizer is formulated so that it doesn’t create static when removed from the record. This is essential, as static is one of the major causes of dust and grit adhering to vinyl records in the first place.
New Inventions:
http://www.abc.net.au/tv/newinventors/txt/s2824854.htm
Record Revirginizer Website
http://www.recordrevirginizer.com/index.html
RECORD REViRGiNiZER isn't just a record cleaner, it restores your vinyl records back to their original condition by using a revolutionary anti-static polymer that acts like a facemask on the your vinyl records.
It's the closest thing to a miracle for vinyl record cleaning and restoration ever invented.
The Process
Record Revirginizer is a new approach to cleaning vinyl records. It’s a liquid that you pour onto the record surface and then massage into the grooves until it has created a coating over the record about 1mm thick. You then leave it to dry for a few hours and then peel off, taking the ground-in debris it
Many record cleaning products use brushes to get into the grooves, but sometimes these can just push the dirt around without actually lifting it out of the groove, or they may even push the dirt in further.
The Record Revirginizer is a viscous, non-toxic liquid that is poured onto one side of the vinyl record and massaged into the grooves so the whole side is covered. It seeps right to the bottom of the grooves where it uses adherence as it sets into a film.
It is then peeled off the record, taking with it the grit and grease that has accumulated in the grooves.
Record Revirginizer is formulated so that it doesn’t create static when removed from the record. This is essential, as static is one of the major causes of dust and grit adhering to vinyl records in the first place.
Vinyl Stories
New Music Store Is Spinning With Vinyl Records Reporting
Ron Matz
CATONSVILLE, Md. (WJZ) - If you're a fan of the LP, the long playing record, you have some reason to celebrate. A new store in Baltimore has opened and is selling only vinyl.
Ron Matz reports on a new trend in the music industry which seems to be going back to the future.
On Frederick Road, the music spins on the turntable at Trax on Wax, a music store where vinyl has become cool again.
Gary Gebler is the brainchild and owner of Trax on Wax.
"People bring me their albums. I put it on CD for them and charge a minimal fee, especially the older generation. I've had people bring in hundreds of albums that I've burned for them. And they just love it, makes them feel like a kid again," said Gebler.
Read the rest here: http://wjz.com/watercooler/record.vinyl.music.2.1510624.html
=============================
Shepshed man reflects on passion for vinyl
DEREK Whittingtons home in Shepshed looks like any other three-bedroomed terrace from the outside.
But open the front door and you find yourself inside a treasure trove, a real music lovers fantasy, for the 58-year-old owns more than 18,000 records.
Reluctant to call himself a collector, Mr Whittington, has had a keen interest in music ever since he was bought his first LP for his fifth birthday.
I quickly discovered I loved music, he said. I would listen to my transistor portable radio and when other kids were out on their bikes and my father was at work I was quite happy to play my records on his radiogram.
The first record I bought was a 45 seven inch Rolling Stones single in 1960. I like all kinds of music, if I sit down and have a listening session I play rock, jazz, classical and drum and bass all in the one session.
Quite a lot of current releases, particularly if the record companies are sure they are going to be a success, do a vinyl release for a short period of time. I have got a collection of CDs, I probably have about 5,000 mainly from when I couldnt buy them on record.
Read the rest here: http://www.loughboroughecho.net/news/loughborough-news/2010/02/24/shepshed-man-reflects-on-passion-for-vinyl-73871-25908074/
Ron Matz
Ron Matz reports on a new trend in the music industry which seems to be going back to the future.
On Frederick Road, the music spins on the turntable at Trax on Wax, a music store where vinyl has become cool again.
Gary Gebler is the brainchild and owner of Trax on Wax.
"People bring me their albums. I put it on CD for them and charge a minimal fee, especially the older generation. I've had people bring in hundreds of albums that I've burned for them. And they just love it, makes them feel like a kid again," said Gebler.
Read the rest here: http://wjz.com/watercooler/record.vinyl.music.2.1510624.html
=============================
Shepshed man reflects on passion for vinyl
But open the front door and you find yourself inside a treasure trove, a real music lovers fantasy, for the 58-year-old owns more than 18,000 records.
Reluctant to call himself a collector, Mr Whittington, has had a keen interest in music ever since he was bought his first LP for his fifth birthday.
I quickly discovered I loved music, he said. I would listen to my transistor portable radio and when other kids were out on their bikes and my father was at work I was quite happy to play my records on his radiogram.
The first record I bought was a 45 seven inch Rolling Stones single in 1960. I like all kinds of music, if I sit down and have a listening session I play rock, jazz, classical and drum and bass all in the one session.
Quite a lot of current releases, particularly if the record companies are sure they are going to be a success, do a vinyl release for a short period of time. I have got a collection of CDs, I probably have about 5,000 mainly from when I couldnt buy them on record.
Read the rest here: http://www.loughboroughecho.net/news/loughborough-news/2010/02/24/shepshed-man-reflects-on-passion-for-vinyl-73871-25908074/
Music News & Notes
Rapper Redman Reveals New Album Cover
Redman reveals his alter-ego Reggie on the cover of his seventh solo album (previously titled Reggie Noble 9 1/2). Redman next album is slated for a March 30th store release. In a recent interview with rap-up.com, Redman is quoted as saying; “Reggie Noble is doing the album, not Redman. Let’s get that clear.”
========================================
PANTERA: New Greatest-Hits Collection, Vinyl Reissues On The Way
A new PANTERA greatest-hits collectionis scheduled for releases on March 30, titled "1990-2000: A Decade Of Domination", according to The Pulse of Radio. No details of what will be included on the release have been announced yet. However, vinyl reissues of the band's three biggest albums — "Cowboys From Hell," "Vulgar Display Of Power" and "Far Beyond Driven" — are scheduled to surface on April 17. A 20th-anniversary remastered edition of "Cowboys", with bonus tracks and new artwork, is also expected to appear later in the year.
========================================
New MILLIONS EP To See Release!
Brutal Panda Records is proud to announce the release of MILLIONS‘ new EP, ‘Panic Program‘. The EP will be available in 7" vinyl format and will feature 4 brand new tracks. The tracks were recorded this past November at Bricktop Recording in Chicago, IL with the band and Andy Nelson (Harpoon, Weekend Nachos) handling production duties, and mastering being taken care of by Carl Saff (Young Widows, The Atlas Moth). The press will be limited to 500 copies with 300 on cosmic green and 200 on black asteroid.
You can hear the first track off the EP, “Kept Alive By Drugs And Magick” via the band’s official MySpace here. http://www.myspace.com/millionschicago
The band will hit the road in support of the EP beginning late-spring and continuing into the summer. ‘Panic Program‘ will see an early March release with pre-orders being taken below.
========================================
JAVELINA ‘Beasts Among Sheep’ To See Limited Edition Vinyl Release!
BRUTAL PANDA RECORDS is proud to announce the forthcoming release of Philadelphia sludge warriors, JAVELINA’s second full-length LP, ‘Beasts Among Sheep’ on vinyl this October! ‘Beasts Among Sheep’ features eight brand new tracks and was recorded and mixed by Sanford Parker (Nachtmystium, Pelican, The Gates of Slumber) at Volume Studios. The press will be limited to 500 copies with 300 on black ash vinyl and 200 on scorched red.
========================================
BLACK TUSK / FIGHT AMP Limited Edition Split 7? To See Release!
BRUTAL PANDA RECORDS is set to release a limited edition, vinyl only split 7" featuring Savannah sludge metallers BLACK TUSK and New Jersey noise rockers FIGHT AMP. The split will have a late July release date and will feature exclusive new artwork from BARONESS’ John Baizley. The release will feature all new material from both bands, with BLACK TUSK contributing the brand new track “Fatal Kiss” and FIGHT AMP contributing the new track “Fire & Stone” as well as an exclusive DEVO cover. The press will be limited to 500 copies with 300 on black vinyl and 200 on a special clear vinyl.
========================================
Everyone Everywhere Releasing Vinyl in May
Everyone Everywhere are a Philadelphia punk band who have released a few 7" singles, but now they’re venturing into the world of the 12" with their self-titled debut album due out May 4th on Tiny Engines.
You can take a listen to some of the songs on the album by clicking to the pre-order page, where you’re able to reserve your copy of the album being pressed in two different colors
* 150 copies on off-white vinyl
* 350 copies on maroon vinyl
http://www.myspace.com/everyoneeverywhere
========================================
Wednesday 13 Finishing Up 'From Here To The Hearse' Vinyl Release
Wednesday 13 is putting the final touches on a new LP (vinyl) only release entitled "From Here To The Hearse".
This very limited (1000 copies in the U.S.) gatefold, colored, vinyl release will showcase songs from the various stages of his self-release career. It will contain songs from Wednesday 13, Bourbon Crow and Gunfire 76 -- as well as one previously unreleased track.
The layout of the release will once again be done by Marlene Elizabeth, who has done most of Wednesday 13's previous artwork, while the photos will come from James Williams. James was discovered thru the website RazorStrike.com. This site is a fan run website that allows the fans to connect to musicians thru various ways -- interviews, show reviews or photo passes. RazorStrike.com helps give professional fans a foot in the door to reach their creative goals. Wednesday 13 saw James' photos and believed they would be perfect for the release and is pleased to help him James get his name out there.
"From Here To The Hearse" is scheduled for an early spring release. Wednesday 13 is currently planning limited vinyl releases for all of his self-released product.
=============================
Nominon Reveals New Album "Monumentomb" Artwork
Swedish death metallers Nominon have posted the cover artwork online for their upcoming album "Monumentomb," which can be viewed here. The band also issued the following update about the album release:
"Ave Death Metal Lunatics! In just a couple of weeks from now it's time for the release of the brand new and fourth Nominon studio album 'Monumentomb.' We would hereby like to show you the cover of this extreme piece of art, done by the master ov death himself; Mr. Chris Moyen! Further recording info: Produced by Nominon & Tore Stjerna. Recorded, Mixed & Mastered by Tore Stjerna at Necromorbus Studios, Stockholm, Sweden Sep-Oct 2009."
=============================
Ryko Analog Vaults Opened for Meat Puppets and Arling & Cameron Vinyl Releases
On February 23rd 2010, Ryko proudly kicked off the relaunch of the Ryko Analogue Series with two special vinyl releases, the 1984 re-mastered Meat Puppets' classic, Meat Puppets II, and the double-vinyl collection of Arling & Cameron's Music For Imaginary Films.
The Ryko Analogue Series brings cult favorites and essential classics back to life. Ryko Analogue culls pivotal releases from its extensive musical catalog and presents them on special edition vinyl. Each re-issue is carefully crafted to deliver the finest quality sound and visual presentation. Common features include deluxe packaging and re-mastered audio. Ryko Analogue provides the ultimate listening experience for both the avid collector and new enthusiast of vinyl.
Meat Puppets Meat Puppets II: Originally released in 1984 on SST Records, Meat Puppets II is completely re-mastered on this special vinyl edition. This crucial release from the Meat Puppets stunningly captures how Curt Kirkwood, brother Cris Kirkwood, and Derrick Bostrom experimented with acid rock and country western sounds.
Curt, Cris and Derrick formed a band called Atomic Bomb Club in the late 1970s in Phoenix, Arizona and decided to rename themselves the Meat Puppets in 1980. Their early hardcore punk songs caught the attention of SST Records, who released their debut eponymous album. After two breakups in 1996 and 2002, the Meat Puppets re-formed in 2006. The new lineup, comprised of the Kirkwood Brothers along with various guest drummers, continues to tour extensively and record.
Arling & Cameron Music For Imaginary Films: The Ryko Analogue Series celebrates the music of Arling & Cameron through the double-vinyl release of Music For Imaginary Films, a collection of theme songs for nonexistent movies and tv shows which was originally released on the Emperor Norton label in 2000. Available until now as a digital release, these pop collages from the minds of A&C demonstrate their zest for French pop, spy movie themes, lounge music, '70s light rock, and Japanese Shibuya-kei.
The Dutch electronic music duo of Gerry Arling and Richard Cameron began their partnership in 1994, holding 'easy tune' parties around Amsterdam. Collaborations with Pizzicato Five, Fantastic Plastic Machine, and Bebel Gilberto soon followed. The Emperor Norton label released the Voulez-Vous EP in 1998, and their debut album, All-In, in 1999 in the States.
High-concept albums are tricky, but Amsterdam's dance masters Gerry Arling and Richard Cameron pull off theirs with flair, humor, and not a little panache. With each cut styled after a different movie soundtrack genre, A&C merrily jump from theremin-inflected sci-fi sexcapades (''Spacebeach'') to funky cop romps (''Le Flic et la Fille'') to '70s disco epics (''Let's Get Higher''). The moods may vary, but the overall tone remains knowing and playful. Now if only someone could give these guys real film work. - Entertainment Weekly / EW.com (Grade: A)
A&C really cook, no matter how low-key or deliberately trivial they're sounding, and this is one way that they (usually, not always) avoid being camp or kitsch or cute. - Village Voice
Through a combination of Arling and Cameron's sharp studio skills, their sure feel for genre, and most importantly, an unfailing sense of humor, these two manage, somehow, to make the zillionth such retro LP sound fun and cool. – (7.2) Pitchfork
It's almost as if they've been raised on a steady diet of "Laugh-In" reruns, sugary disco beats, James Bond films, and the Ray Conniff Singers. – Billboard
=============================
REO Speedwagon 30th Year
Kevin Coyne of REO Speedwagon has written that the band will be playing a number of songs from their Hi-Fidelity album at coming shows to celebrate its 30th anniversary.
This year, and 2011, will mark the 30 year anniversary of the recording, release, and phenomenal success story of our Hi Infidelity album, which is a part of just under ten million people's record collections. I am not much into nostalgia, I prefer looking forward, growing, and creating new music, but this particular anniversary is just too special. We have chosen to embrace, and celebrate, this most magical series of events, and share this unbelievable feeling with the whole REO Family.
So, starting with the four sold-out shows this weekend with Styx and 38 Special, in Rockford, Springfield, Louisville, and Toledo, we will pay homage to the album, which after ten years of touring and recording, put our band on the map in 1981. We will be playing Hi Infidelity songs which have been rarities on our set lists over the years, including visual images from that time period in our stage production, and featuring special items at the merch stand to commemorate the album which altered the history of our band so immeasurably.
=============================
New Meatloaf LP Coming in April
Meat Loaf will be releasing a new studio album, Hang Cool Teddy Bear, on April 23, a concept LP built around a short story by Killian Kerwin. His rather eclectic guest list includes Queen's Brian May, Jack Black, Justin Hawkins from the Darkness, Steve Vai and House himself, Hugh Laurie.
=============================
Radiohead's Thom Yorke Names New Band, Announces US Tour
They'll play 8 shows ahead of Coachella...
Radiohead's Thom Yorke has given his side-project band a name and unveiled some US tour dates.
Writing on Deadairspace, Yorke revealed that the collaboration with Flea, Nigel Godrich, Mauro Refosco and Joey Waronker is called Atoms For Peace and they will play eight shows ahead of their Coachella performance in April.
Support on the US shows will come from Flying Lotus.
Yorke wrote: “ok so in April the other band.. that i got together to do the eraser and other stuff u know .. Mauro, Flea, Me, Joey and Nigel is going back out to do some shows in the US.. ending with playing with Coachella. we had too much fun to just leave it there...“it has been decided that we call ourselves Atoms For Peace. hope you like the name.. it seemed bleedin' obvious.”
'Atoms For Peace' is the name of a track from Yorke's solo debut 'The Eraser'.
========================================
PANTERA: New Greatest-Hits Collection, Vinyl Reissues On The Way
========================================
New MILLIONS EP To See Release!
You can hear the first track off the EP, “Kept Alive By Drugs And Magick” via the band’s official MySpace here. http://www.myspace.com/millionschicago
The band will hit the road in support of the EP beginning late-spring and continuing into the summer. ‘Panic Program‘ will see an early March release with pre-orders being taken below.
========================================
JAVELINA ‘Beasts Among Sheep’ To See Limited Edition Vinyl Release!
========================================
BLACK TUSK / FIGHT AMP Limited Edition Split 7? To See Release!
========================================
Everyone Everywhere Releasing Vinyl in May
Everyone Everywhere are a Philadelphia punk band who have released a few 7" singles, but now they’re venturing into the world of the 12" with their self-titled debut album due out May 4th on Tiny Engines.
You can take a listen to some of the songs on the album by clicking to the pre-order page, where you’re able to reserve your copy of the album being pressed in two different colors
* 150 copies on off-white vinyl
* 350 copies on maroon vinyl
http://www.myspace.com/everyoneeverywhere
========================================
Wednesday 13 Finishing Up 'From Here To The Hearse' Vinyl Release
Wednesday 13 is putting the final touches on a new LP (vinyl) only release entitled "From Here To The Hearse".
This very limited (1000 copies in the U.S.) gatefold, colored, vinyl release will showcase songs from the various stages of his self-release career. It will contain songs from Wednesday 13, Bourbon Crow and Gunfire 76 -- as well as one previously unreleased track.
The layout of the release will once again be done by Marlene Elizabeth, who has done most of Wednesday 13's previous artwork, while the photos will come from James Williams. James was discovered thru the website RazorStrike.com. This site is a fan run website that allows the fans to connect to musicians thru various ways -- interviews, show reviews or photo passes. RazorStrike.com helps give professional fans a foot in the door to reach their creative goals. Wednesday 13 saw James' photos and believed they would be perfect for the release and is pleased to help him James get his name out there.
"From Here To The Hearse" is scheduled for an early spring release. Wednesday 13 is currently planning limited vinyl releases for all of his self-released product.
=============================
Nominon Reveals New Album "Monumentomb" Artwork
"Ave Death Metal Lunatics! In just a couple of weeks from now it's time for the release of the brand new and fourth Nominon studio album 'Monumentomb.' We would hereby like to show you the cover of this extreme piece of art, done by the master ov death himself; Mr. Chris Moyen! Further recording info: Produced by Nominon & Tore Stjerna. Recorded, Mixed & Mastered by Tore Stjerna at Necromorbus Studios, Stockholm, Sweden Sep-Oct 2009."
=============================
Ryko Analog Vaults Opened for Meat Puppets and Arling & Cameron Vinyl Releases
On February 23rd 2010, Ryko proudly kicked off the relaunch of the Ryko Analogue Series with two special vinyl releases, the 1984 re-mastered Meat Puppets' classic, Meat Puppets II, and the double-vinyl collection of Arling & Cameron's Music For Imaginary Films.
The Ryko Analogue Series brings cult favorites and essential classics back to life. Ryko Analogue culls pivotal releases from its extensive musical catalog and presents them on special edition vinyl. Each re-issue is carefully crafted to deliver the finest quality sound and visual presentation. Common features include deluxe packaging and re-mastered audio. Ryko Analogue provides the ultimate listening experience for both the avid collector and new enthusiast of vinyl.
Meat Puppets Meat Puppets II: Originally released in 1984 on SST Records, Meat Puppets II is completely re-mastered on this special vinyl edition. This crucial release from the Meat Puppets stunningly captures how Curt Kirkwood, brother Cris Kirkwood, and Derrick Bostrom experimented with acid rock and country western sounds.
Curt, Cris and Derrick formed a band called Atomic Bomb Club in the late 1970s in Phoenix, Arizona and decided to rename themselves the Meat Puppets in 1980. Their early hardcore punk songs caught the attention of SST Records, who released their debut eponymous album. After two breakups in 1996 and 2002, the Meat Puppets re-formed in 2006. The new lineup, comprised of the Kirkwood Brothers along with various guest drummers, continues to tour extensively and record.
Arling & Cameron Music For Imaginary Films: The Ryko Analogue Series celebrates the music of Arling & Cameron through the double-vinyl release of Music For Imaginary Films, a collection of theme songs for nonexistent movies and tv shows which was originally released on the Emperor Norton label in 2000. Available until now as a digital release, these pop collages from the minds of A&C demonstrate their zest for French pop, spy movie themes, lounge music, '70s light rock, and Japanese Shibuya-kei.
The Dutch electronic music duo of Gerry Arling and Richard Cameron began their partnership in 1994, holding 'easy tune' parties around Amsterdam. Collaborations with Pizzicato Five, Fantastic Plastic Machine, and Bebel Gilberto soon followed. The Emperor Norton label released the Voulez-Vous EP in 1998, and their debut album, All-In, in 1999 in the States.
High-concept albums are tricky, but Amsterdam's dance masters Gerry Arling and Richard Cameron pull off theirs with flair, humor, and not a little panache. With each cut styled after a different movie soundtrack genre, A&C merrily jump from theremin-inflected sci-fi sexcapades (''Spacebeach'') to funky cop romps (''Le Flic et la Fille'') to '70s disco epics (''Let's Get Higher''). The moods may vary, but the overall tone remains knowing and playful. Now if only someone could give these guys real film work. - Entertainment Weekly / EW.com (Grade: A)
A&C really cook, no matter how low-key or deliberately trivial they're sounding, and this is one way that they (usually, not always) avoid being camp or kitsch or cute. - Village Voice
Through a combination of Arling and Cameron's sharp studio skills, their sure feel for genre, and most importantly, an unfailing sense of humor, these two manage, somehow, to make the zillionth such retro LP sound fun and cool. – (7.2) Pitchfork
It's almost as if they've been raised on a steady diet of "Laugh-In" reruns, sugary disco beats, James Bond films, and the Ray Conniff Singers. – Billboard
=============================
REO Speedwagon 30th Year
Kevin Coyne of REO Speedwagon has written that the band will be playing a number of songs from their Hi-Fidelity album at coming shows to celebrate its 30th anniversary.
This year, and 2011, will mark the 30 year anniversary of the recording, release, and phenomenal success story of our Hi Infidelity album, which is a part of just under ten million people's record collections. I am not much into nostalgia, I prefer looking forward, growing, and creating new music, but this particular anniversary is just too special. We have chosen to embrace, and celebrate, this most magical series of events, and share this unbelievable feeling with the whole REO Family.
So, starting with the four sold-out shows this weekend with Styx and 38 Special, in Rockford, Springfield, Louisville, and Toledo, we will pay homage to the album, which after ten years of touring and recording, put our band on the map in 1981. We will be playing Hi Infidelity songs which have been rarities on our set lists over the years, including visual images from that time period in our stage production, and featuring special items at the merch stand to commemorate the album which altered the history of our band so immeasurably.
=============================
New Meatloaf LP Coming in April
Meat Loaf will be releasing a new studio album, Hang Cool Teddy Bear, on April 23, a concept LP built around a short story by Killian Kerwin. His rather eclectic guest list includes Queen's Brian May, Jack Black, Justin Hawkins from the Darkness, Steve Vai and House himself, Hugh Laurie.
=============================
Radiohead's Thom Yorke Names New Band, Announces US Tour
They'll play 8 shows ahead of Coachella...
Radiohead's Thom Yorke has given his side-project band a name and unveiled some US tour dates.
Writing on Deadairspace, Yorke revealed that the collaboration with Flea, Nigel Godrich, Mauro Refosco and Joey Waronker is called Atoms For Peace and they will play eight shows ahead of their Coachella performance in April.
Support on the US shows will come from Flying Lotus.
Yorke wrote: “ok so in April the other band.. that i got together to do the eraser and other stuff u know .. Mauro, Flea, Me, Joey and Nigel is going back out to do some shows in the US.. ending with playing with Coachella. we had too much fun to just leave it there...“it has been decided that we call ourselves Atoms For Peace. hope you like the name.. it seemed bleedin' obvious.”
'Atoms For Peace' is the name of a track from Yorke's solo debut 'The Eraser'.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Vinyl is Back: Records Rise in Popularity, Staples Students On Board
Melanie Mignucci ‘12
Video Editor
A display of the many records Sally’s Place offers to audiophiles. Located in downtown Westport, Sally’s Place caters to a wide variety of different genres of music. Sales for vinyl records have increased in recent years. Photo By Melanie Mignucci '12
Vinyl records, the dinosaur of the music industry, may instead be the next big thing—again.
Records have enjoyed a substantial jump in sales in recent years. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), 2.9 million units were shipped in 2008.
Official statistics from the RIAA show that the share of the market dominated by vinyl LPs jumped from .7 percent to 1 percent in 2008, while CD sales suffered a decrease of 4.8 percent.
This data suggests that more people are slowly embracing the older but higher quality technology.
Records have been around since the 1920s, but were made obsolete in the late 1980s by the rise of digital media—cheaper, smaller and faster, but of much lesser quality.
Even with the pops and crackles, the imperfections of vinyl records make them sound perfect to the human ear. For this reason, the high sound quality of records makes them highly desirable among audiophiles.
Vinyl “feels more valuable,” according to everyday listener Grace McGovern ’11. “You don’t sit down and listen to one song on a record, but an entire record. It’s an experience.”
The experience of listening to vinyl has an anachronistic appeal, especially for younger generations obsessed with what McGovern calls “vintage technology.”
A Dec. 2008 article in “New York Magazine” described the experience of record shopping and listening as “the thrill of discovery,” another appeal for would–be record collectors.
Mikey Holmes ’10 was originally attracted to records because of “the ability to go to record stores and find obscure, independently released music that was most likely heard by a fairly small audience.”
Like a cult film, vinyl’s rise in popularity can be attributed to the relatively small audience and niche factor. McGovern said that records attract independent music supporters because “more independent bands have been producing on vinyl.”
Indie bands may be producing their own records, but even mainstream hits can be found on vinyl. The novelty and the thrill of discovery is not all that is propelling its success.
Elizabeth Rubel ’10 has been listening to vinyl for her entire life. She attributed this to her father’s love of vinyl.
“My father always had a turntable in our stereo system,” Rubel said. “I got into classic rock from listening to his records. A few years back I started collecting myself.”
Rubel’s collection includes albums like Elvis Costello and The Smiths, or “newer albums, like the Shins or Phoenix.” She estimates her collection of records to be around 150, with more boxes of them in the attic.
Records are easily available from boxes in the attic, online, thrift stores, and even downtown Westport.
Sally’s Place, located just beyond the far end of Main Street, has been in business for “hundreds of years,” in owner Sally White’s words.
When asked to identify the reason behind the current trend in vinyl sales, White had a singular opinion as to what allows vinyl to make a comeback.
“The sound. Absolutely the sound,” White said. “Everyone thinks digital is going to make it
big but the analog sound is what the kids want.”
Clearly, the convenience of digital music does not make up for the high sound quality and the whole experience of listening to vinyl.
The data and the testimonies of listeners point towards the future; people are looking at vinyl records as a serious music source, and not a hip throwback. Consumers in the future will be making more purchases based upon quality and lasting value, as opposed to novelty, if this trend continues.
Vinyl’s rise in popularity shows that consumers are slowly rediscovering the benefits of better quality music and experiential listening.
Record-Mendations
Petey Menz ‘11
News Editor
Best Album To Get On Vinyl
Let’s be honest—there are really only two reasons you buy vinyl. You want to look cool, or you like the sound better. Serge Gainsbourg’s classic LP Histoire de Melody Nelson will fulfill both of those goals; it’s smooth, it’s funky, it’s menacing, and it’s got the finest bass sound ever heard in France.
Great Places to Get Vinyl
Sally’s Place, Westport, Conn.
Goodwill, Westport, Conn.
Hospital Productions, NYC
But if that’s what you groove to, this place is your paradise, with a wide selection of LPs featuring everything from Brooklyn sonic adventurers Black Dice to New Zealand improvisational group the Dead C.
If you’re not into noise music- not noise pop, not noisy rock and roll, but straight up noise music- you’ll probably want to stay away from this place, where the clerk blasts Japanese ambient noise and modified guitars hang on the walls. – Again, convenient for Stapleites and cheaper than anything else. And if you can stand sifting through a million Olivia Newton-John records, you’ll reap great rewards; I’ve picked up some great Sly & the Family Stone records here, as well as a few novelty LPs that were too great to pass up- Mickey Mouse Disco, anyone? – Convenient for Stapleites, modestly priced, and has a varied and surprising selection. I’ve gotten everything from old Who LPs to bizarre funk soundtracks there.
SOURCE: http://www.inklingsnews.com/archives/4571#bookmarks
Video Editor
Vinyl records, the dinosaur of the music industry, may instead be the next big thing—again.
Records have enjoyed a substantial jump in sales in recent years. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), 2.9 million units were shipped in 2008.
Official statistics from the RIAA show that the share of the market dominated by vinyl LPs jumped from .7 percent to 1 percent in 2008, while CD sales suffered a decrease of 4.8 percent.
This data suggests that more people are slowly embracing the older but higher quality technology.
Records have been around since the 1920s, but were made obsolete in the late 1980s by the rise of digital media—cheaper, smaller and faster, but of much lesser quality.
Even with the pops and crackles, the imperfections of vinyl records make them sound perfect to the human ear. For this reason, the high sound quality of records makes them highly desirable among audiophiles.
Vinyl “feels more valuable,” according to everyday listener Grace McGovern ’11. “You don’t sit down and listen to one song on a record, but an entire record. It’s an experience.”
The experience of listening to vinyl has an anachronistic appeal, especially for younger generations obsessed with what McGovern calls “vintage technology.”
A Dec. 2008 article in “New York Magazine” described the experience of record shopping and listening as “the thrill of discovery,” another appeal for would–be record collectors.
Mikey Holmes ’10 was originally attracted to records because of “the ability to go to record stores and find obscure, independently released music that was most likely heard by a fairly small audience.”
Like a cult film, vinyl’s rise in popularity can be attributed to the relatively small audience and niche factor. McGovern said that records attract independent music supporters because “more independent bands have been producing on vinyl.”
Indie bands may be producing their own records, but even mainstream hits can be found on vinyl. The novelty and the thrill of discovery is not all that is propelling its success.
Elizabeth Rubel ’10 has been listening to vinyl for her entire life. She attributed this to her father’s love of vinyl.
“My father always had a turntable in our stereo system,” Rubel said. “I got into classic rock from listening to his records. A few years back I started collecting myself.”
Rubel’s collection includes albums like Elvis Costello and The Smiths, or “newer albums, like the Shins or Phoenix.” She estimates her collection of records to be around 150, with more boxes of them in the attic.
Records are easily available from boxes in the attic, online, thrift stores, and even downtown Westport.
Sally’s Place, located just beyond the far end of Main Street, has been in business for “hundreds of years,” in owner Sally White’s words.
When asked to identify the reason behind the current trend in vinyl sales, White had a singular opinion as to what allows vinyl to make a comeback.
“The sound. Absolutely the sound,” White said. “Everyone thinks digital is going to make it
big but the analog sound is what the kids want.”
Clearly, the convenience of digital music does not make up for the high sound quality and the whole experience of listening to vinyl.
The data and the testimonies of listeners point towards the future; people are looking at vinyl records as a serious music source, and not a hip throwback. Consumers in the future will be making more purchases based upon quality and lasting value, as opposed to novelty, if this trend continues.
Vinyl’s rise in popularity shows that consumers are slowly rediscovering the benefits of better quality music and experiential listening.
Record-Mendations
Petey Menz ‘11
News Editor
Best Album To Get On Vinyl
Let’s be honest—there are really only two reasons you buy vinyl. You want to look cool, or you like the sound better. Serge Gainsbourg’s classic LP Histoire de Melody Nelson will fulfill both of those goals; it’s smooth, it’s funky, it’s menacing, and it’s got the finest bass sound ever heard in France.
Great Places to Get Vinyl
Sally’s Place, Westport, Conn.
Goodwill, Westport, Conn.
Hospital Productions, NYC
But if that’s what you groove to, this place is your paradise, with a wide selection of LPs featuring everything from Brooklyn sonic adventurers Black Dice to New Zealand improvisational group the Dead C.
If you’re not into noise music- not noise pop, not noisy rock and roll, but straight up noise music- you’ll probably want to stay away from this place, where the clerk blasts Japanese ambient noise and modified guitars hang on the walls. – Again, convenient for Stapleites and cheaper than anything else. And if you can stand sifting through a million Olivia Newton-John records, you’ll reap great rewards; I’ve picked up some great Sly & the Family Stone records here, as well as a few novelty LPs that were too great to pass up- Mickey Mouse Disco, anyone? – Convenient for Stapleites, modestly priced, and has a varied and surprising selection. I’ve gotten everything from old Who LPs to bizarre funk soundtracks there.
SOURCE: http://www.inklingsnews.com/archives/4571#bookmarks
Ask Mr. Music by Jerry Osborne
FOR THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 22, 2010
DEAR JERRY: I learned much from your column on Tchaikovsky's 6th Symphony, “Pathetique,” and all the songs based on his composition.
Which leads me to ask if any of Elvis Presley's songs are also based on classical pieces created by the masters? Some sound like they might.
I know some of his hits have European origins but may be too recent to be considered classical in the Tchaikovsky and Bach sense. But which ones?
—Caroline Cammareri, York, Pa.
DEAR CAROLINE: Many music lovers recognize an Elvis tune here and there as being either classical or European, or both (European classics). Still, not many can name them all.
Now you'll be among the few who can.
Elvis' first revival of the classics came during an April 28, 1960 Hollywood session, when he recorded “Tonight Is So Right for Love,” one of 11 tracks for the “G.I. Blues” soundtrack album.
The music behind Sid Wayne and Abner Silver's newly-written lyrics is Jacques Offenbach's “Barcarolle (Night of Stars),” also known as “A Venetian Boat Song.”
Then, in a surprising development for all concerned, a dispute over using “Barcarolle” in some European countries resulted in RCA asking Elvis and his band to return to the studio. They did on May 6th and, using pretty much the same lyrics as “Tonight Is So Right for Love,” replaced the Offenbach accompaniment with completely different orchestration.
Specifically for Europe, on records as well as in the “G.I. Blues” film, the replacement melody chosen is “Tales from Vienna Woods,” a renowned waltz by Johann Strauss.
To somewhat distinguish these two similar recordings, the Strauss version is titled “Tonight's All Right for Love.”
This oddity remained commercially unavailable in the U.S. until 1974, but is now easily found.
Presley's next classical endeavor is based on Franz Liszt's “Liebestraum.” With lyrics by Bill Giant, Bernie Baum, and Florence Kaye, this July '63 track came out as “Today, Tomorrow, and Forever,” and is on the “Viva Las Vegas” soundtrack.
One of songs recorded (June 1966) for the “Double Trouble” soundtrack is “I Love Only One Girl,” with words by Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett. The bouncy melody, however, is “Au Prés De Ma Blonde,” courtesy of R.E.J. Milne.
The last one is based on Johannes Brahms' very familiar, self-titled “Brahms Lullaby.” In June '67, with words by Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett, this number became “Five Sleepyheads,” a lullaby on the “Speedway” soundtrack.
Now for the Presley tunes with European roots:
“It's Now Or Never”: Italian “O Solo Mio” (literally: “Oh My Sun”)
“Surrender”: Italian “Torna a Surriento” (literally: “Come Back to Sorrento”)
“Ask Me”: Italian “Io” (literally: “Me”)
“You Don't Have to Say You Love Me”: Italian “Io Che Non Vivo Senza Té” (literally: “I Who Don't Live Without You”)
“Softly, As I Leave You”: Italian “Piano” (literally: “Softly”)
“Santa Lucia”: Sung entirely in Italian (for “Viva Las Vegas” film)
“Can't Help Falling in Love” French “Plaisir d'Amour” (literally: “Pleasure of Love”)
“Almost Always True”: French “Alouette.”
“Let It Be Me”: French “Je t'Appartiens” (literally: “I Belong to You”)
“My Way”: French “Comme d'Habitude” (literally: “Like Usual”)
“What Now My Love”: French “Et Maintenamt” (literally: “And Now”)
“My Boy”: French “Parce Que Je t'aime Mon Enfant” (literally: “Because I Love You My Child”)
“No More”: Spanish “La Paloma” (literally: “The Dove”)
“Guadalajara”: Sung entirely in Spanish (about the capital of the Mexican state of Jalisco)
“Wooden Heart”: Sung partly in German, “Muss I denn” (literally: “Must I Then”)
IZ ZAT SO? Even RCA Victor at times found it difficult to make the distinction between “Tonight Is So Right for Love” (Offenbach) and “Tonight is All Right for Love” (Strauss).
Their first issue of “G.I. Blues” on CD (RCA/BMG 3735-2-R) came out with “Tonight is All Right for Love” mistakenly shown as “Tonight Is So Right for Love (Alternative Version)”.
Neither is an alternative take of the other. They are two completely different pieces of music, having only lyrics in common.
RCA's proofreader may have taken the day off, as this same CD incorrectly identifies “What's She Really Like” as “She's All Mine.”
Those three words exist in the lyrics but are not the title of this or any song by Elvis.
Jerry Osborne answers as many questions as possible through this column. Jerry's Question page: Ask your question here. Write Jerry at: Box 255, Port Townsend, WA 98368
E-mail: jpo@olympus.net
Visit his Web site: http://www.jerryosborne.com/.
(All values quoted in this column are for near-mint condition).
DEAR JERRY: I learned much from your column on Tchaikovsky's 6th Symphony, “Pathetique,” and all the songs based on his composition.
Which leads me to ask if any of Elvis Presley's songs are also based on classical pieces created by the masters? Some sound like they might.
I know some of his hits have European origins but may be too recent to be considered classical in the Tchaikovsky and Bach sense. But which ones?
—Caroline Cammareri, York, Pa.
DEAR CAROLINE: Many music lovers recognize an Elvis tune here and there as being either classical or European, or both (European classics). Still, not many can name them all.
Now you'll be among the few who can.
Elvis' first revival of the classics came during an April 28, 1960 Hollywood session, when he recorded “Tonight Is So Right for Love,” one of 11 tracks for the “G.I. Blues” soundtrack album.
The music behind Sid Wayne and Abner Silver's newly-written lyrics is Jacques Offenbach's “Barcarolle (Night of Stars),” also known as “A Venetian Boat Song.”
Then, in a surprising development for all concerned, a dispute over using “Barcarolle” in some European countries resulted in RCA asking Elvis and his band to return to the studio. They did on May 6th and, using pretty much the same lyrics as “Tonight Is So Right for Love,” replaced the Offenbach accompaniment with completely different orchestration.
Specifically for Europe, on records as well as in the “G.I. Blues” film, the replacement melody chosen is “Tales from Vienna Woods,” a renowned waltz by Johann Strauss.
To somewhat distinguish these two similar recordings, the Strauss version is titled “Tonight's All Right for Love.”
This oddity remained commercially unavailable in the U.S. until 1974, but is now easily found.
Presley's next classical endeavor is based on Franz Liszt's “Liebestraum.” With lyrics by Bill Giant, Bernie Baum, and Florence Kaye, this July '63 track came out as “Today, Tomorrow, and Forever,” and is on the “Viva Las Vegas” soundtrack.
One of songs recorded (June 1966) for the “Double Trouble” soundtrack is “I Love Only One Girl,” with words by Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett. The bouncy melody, however, is “Au Prés De Ma Blonde,” courtesy of R.E.J. Milne.
The last one is based on Johannes Brahms' very familiar, self-titled “Brahms Lullaby.” In June '67, with words by Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett, this number became “Five Sleepyheads,” a lullaby on the “Speedway” soundtrack.
Now for the Presley tunes with European roots:
“It's Now Or Never”: Italian “O Solo Mio” (literally: “Oh My Sun”)
“Surrender”: Italian “Torna a Surriento” (literally: “Come Back to Sorrento”)
“Ask Me”: Italian “Io” (literally: “Me”)
“You Don't Have to Say You Love Me”: Italian “Io Che Non Vivo Senza Té” (literally: “I Who Don't Live Without You”)
“Softly, As I Leave You”: Italian “Piano” (literally: “Softly”)
“Santa Lucia”: Sung entirely in Italian (for “Viva Las Vegas” film)
“Can't Help Falling in Love” French “Plaisir d'Amour” (literally: “Pleasure of Love”)
“Almost Always True”: French “Alouette.”
“Let It Be Me”: French “Je t'Appartiens” (literally: “I Belong to You”)
“My Way”: French “Comme d'Habitude” (literally: “Like Usual”)
“What Now My Love”: French “Et Maintenamt” (literally: “And Now”)
“My Boy”: French “Parce Que Je t'aime Mon Enfant” (literally: “Because I Love You My Child”)
“No More”: Spanish “La Paloma” (literally: “The Dove”)
“Guadalajara”: Sung entirely in Spanish (about the capital of the Mexican state of Jalisco)
“Wooden Heart”: Sung partly in German, “Muss I denn” (literally: “Must I Then”)
IZ ZAT SO? Even RCA Victor at times found it difficult to make the distinction between “Tonight Is So Right for Love” (Offenbach) and “Tonight is All Right for Love” (Strauss).
Their first issue of “G.I. Blues” on CD (RCA/BMG 3735-2-R) came out with “Tonight is All Right for Love” mistakenly shown as “Tonight Is So Right for Love (Alternative Version)”.
Neither is an alternative take of the other. They are two completely different pieces of music, having only lyrics in common.
RCA's proofreader may have taken the day off, as this same CD incorrectly identifies “What's She Really Like” as “She's All Mine.”
Those three words exist in the lyrics but are not the title of this or any song by Elvis.
Jerry Osborne answers as many questions as possible through this column. Jerry's Question page: Ask your question here. Write Jerry at: Box 255, Port Townsend, WA 98368
E-mail: jpo@olympus.net
Visit his Web site: http://www.jerryosborne.com/.
(All values quoted in this column are for near-mint condition).
Copyright 2010 Osborne Enterprises- Reprinted By Permission
Music News & Notes
DEFTONES Prepare to Release "DIAMOND EYES" This Spring
One of the most respected and enduring forces in modern rock music, DEFTONES are proud to announce the release of their long-awaited new album entitled DIAMOND EYES, scheduled for release May 18, 2010. The Grammy Award-winning, Platinum-certified band's 6th full-length, was produced and mixed by Nick Raskulinecz (Alice in Chains, Coheed & Cambria, Foo Fighters), and recorded and engineered by Paul "Fig" Figueroa (Alice in Chains, Bad Religion). As expected, DIAMOND EYES is a powerful combination of muscular impact and expansive and atmospheric clarity that propels DEFTONES through their ever-evolving new sonic terrain.
Beginning today, one brand new song from the album, "Rocket Skates," will become available online only for FREE via www.deftones.com. To accompany the track, a new lyric video will be available and viewable the same day at: youtube.com/deftones.
Then on April 17, "Rocket Skates" will be available for sale as an exclusive, limited edition 7" vinyl single pressing complete with picture sleeve in support of National Record Store Day. These will go fast so don't hesitate.
DEFTONES are also pleased to confirm a string of live shows scheduled for this spring as follows:
Sat April 24 Vive Latino Festival 2010 Mexico City, MEX
Sat May 22 Rock on The Range Fest Columbus, OH
Sat June 12 Download Fest Donnington Park, UK
More dates to be announced soon.
===========================
Abbey Road studios win preservation order
LONDON (Reuters) - Abbey Road, the recording studios made famous by the Beatles, was designated a historic site by the government on Tuesday to protect the pop music shrine against any plans to radically alter it.
Reports last week that owners EMI were to sell the studios attracted worldwide interest and sparked fears the site might be converted into a residential development.
Culture Minister Margaret Hodge declared the iconic venue a Grade II listed building -- the second-highest category -- on the advice of national preservation body English Heritage.
In a statement she said the listing had been granted "overwhelmingly on the historic merit of the studios" and because of its "huge cultural importance."
The new status means that although changes to its interior can be made, any proposed alterations must respect the character and preservation of the site.
===========================
Sting to Do World Tour With the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra
Live Nation has announced that Sting will embark on a world tour starting June 2, performing his most celebrated songs with the accompaniment of The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra conducted by Maestro Steven Mercurio.
Orchestrations are currently being created for the tour with today's press release confirming that the following songs will be included in the show:
•Roxanne
•Next To You
•Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic
•Every Breath You Take
•Englishman in New York
•Fragile
•Russians
•If I Ever Lose My Faith in You,
•Fields of Gold
•Desert Rose
The tour kicks off June 2 in Vancouver, as did the Police reunion, and will visit Denver, Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Philadelphia, Portland, Seattle, Washington, Toronto and Montreal along with more cities to be announced. The U.K. and Europe will follow.
Sting's interest in collaborating with an orchestra began in 2008 following an invitation to perform with the legendary Chicago Symphony Orchestra. After reworking selections from his expansive catalog, he and several members of his longtime band joined the orchestra in a performance that left an indelible mark on Sting. Eager to explore the possibilities of further symphonic collaboration, Sting was excited when the Philadelphia Orchestra asked him to join them in commemoration of the 153rd anniversary of the Academy of Music.
"Performing with both the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Philadelphia Orchestra was truly a highlight of my career. I'm delighted by this new opportunity to tour with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and reinterpret the songs I've been playing for many years," commented Sting.
Along with the Royal Philharmonic, Sting will also bring along Dominic Miller (guitar), David Cousin (percussionist), Jo Lawry (vocals) and Ira Coleman (bass).
So far, the following five dates have been announced:
•6/2/10 - Vancouver - Centre for the Performing Arts (on sale 3/8)
•6/9/10 - Denver - Red Rocks Amphitheatre (on sale 3/8)
•6/15/10 - Los Angeles - Hollywood Bowl (on sale 3/8)
•7/17 & 18/10 - Chicago - Ravinia Festival (on sale 4/22)
===========================
MANTRIC: Debut Album Title, Artwork, Release Date Revealed
MANTRIC, the Norwegian metal band featuring former members of metal visionaries EXTOL, will release its debut album, "The Descent", on april 27 (one day earlier interntationally via Prosthetic Records. The CD was recorded in Norway, with Danish producer Tue Madsen (HALFORD, BEHEMOTH, KATAKLYSM, THE HAUNTED) handling mixing and mastering duties at his Antfarm facility in Århus, Denmark.
According to a press release, "The Descent" "fuses a unique, distinctly Scandinavian take on rich, challenging metal and modern punk with a powerful progressive edge."
============================
Ghostface/Raekwon/Method Man Album Actually Coming Out
Wu-Massacre, the collaborative album between Wu-Tang Clan members Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, and Method Man, has seen its release date pushed back a ton of times since last year, and it was starting to seem like we'd never get to hear the thing, especially with Meth facing tax-evasion charges.
The album is set for a March 30 release from Def Jam. Wu guys RZA and Mathematics contribute production. Wu-Tang members Inspectah Deck and Cappadonna make appearances, as do associates like Streetlife, Solomon Childs, Trife, and Sun God. The live band Rhythm Roots Allstars plays on a few tracks, and Ghostface buddy Tracy Morgan shows up on a skit.
One of the most respected and enduring forces in modern rock music, DEFTONES are proud to announce the release of their long-awaited new album entitled DIAMOND EYES, scheduled for release May 18, 2010. The Grammy Award-winning, Platinum-certified band's 6th full-length, was produced and mixed by Nick Raskulinecz (Alice in Chains, Coheed & Cambria, Foo Fighters), and recorded and engineered by Paul "Fig" Figueroa (Alice in Chains, Bad Religion). As expected, DIAMOND EYES is a powerful combination of muscular impact and expansive and atmospheric clarity that propels DEFTONES through their ever-evolving new sonic terrain.
Beginning today, one brand new song from the album, "Rocket Skates," will become available online only for FREE via www.deftones.com. To accompany the track, a new lyric video will be available and viewable the same day at: youtube.com/deftones.
Then on April 17, "Rocket Skates" will be available for sale as an exclusive, limited edition 7" vinyl single pressing complete with picture sleeve in support of National Record Store Day. These will go fast so don't hesitate.
DEFTONES are also pleased to confirm a string of live shows scheduled for this spring as follows:
Sat April 24 Vive Latino Festival 2010 Mexico City, MEX
Sat May 22 Rock on The Range Fest Columbus, OH
Sat June 12 Download Fest Donnington Park, UK
More dates to be announced soon.
===========================
Abbey Road studios win preservation order
LONDON (Reuters) - Abbey Road, the recording studios made famous by the Beatles, was designated a historic site by the government on Tuesday to protect the pop music shrine against any plans to radically alter it.
Reports last week that owners EMI were to sell the studios attracted worldwide interest and sparked fears the site might be converted into a residential development.
Culture Minister Margaret Hodge declared the iconic venue a Grade II listed building -- the second-highest category -- on the advice of national preservation body English Heritage.
In a statement she said the listing had been granted "overwhelmingly on the historic merit of the studios" and because of its "huge cultural importance."
The new status means that although changes to its interior can be made, any proposed alterations must respect the character and preservation of the site.
===========================
Sting to Do World Tour With the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra
Live Nation has announced that Sting will embark on a world tour starting June 2, performing his most celebrated songs with the accompaniment of The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra conducted by Maestro Steven Mercurio.
Orchestrations are currently being created for the tour with today's press release confirming that the following songs will be included in the show:
•Roxanne
•Next To You
•Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic
•Every Breath You Take
•Englishman in New York
•Fragile
•Russians
•If I Ever Lose My Faith in You,
•Fields of Gold
•Desert Rose
The tour kicks off June 2 in Vancouver, as did the Police reunion, and will visit Denver, Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Philadelphia, Portland, Seattle, Washington, Toronto and Montreal along with more cities to be announced. The U.K. and Europe will follow.
Sting's interest in collaborating with an orchestra began in 2008 following an invitation to perform with the legendary Chicago Symphony Orchestra. After reworking selections from his expansive catalog, he and several members of his longtime band joined the orchestra in a performance that left an indelible mark on Sting. Eager to explore the possibilities of further symphonic collaboration, Sting was excited when the Philadelphia Orchestra asked him to join them in commemoration of the 153rd anniversary of the Academy of Music.
"Performing with both the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Philadelphia Orchestra was truly a highlight of my career. I'm delighted by this new opportunity to tour with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and reinterpret the songs I've been playing for many years," commented Sting.
Along with the Royal Philharmonic, Sting will also bring along Dominic Miller (guitar), David Cousin (percussionist), Jo Lawry (vocals) and Ira Coleman (bass).
So far, the following five dates have been announced:
•6/2/10 - Vancouver - Centre for the Performing Arts (on sale 3/8)
•6/9/10 - Denver - Red Rocks Amphitheatre (on sale 3/8)
•6/15/10 - Los Angeles - Hollywood Bowl (on sale 3/8)
•7/17 & 18/10 - Chicago - Ravinia Festival (on sale 4/22)
===========================
MANTRIC: Debut Album Title, Artwork, Release Date Revealed
According to a press release, "The Descent" "fuses a unique, distinctly Scandinavian take on rich, challenging metal and modern punk with a powerful progressive edge."
============================
Ghostface/Raekwon/Method Man Album Actually Coming Out
The album is set for a March 30 release from Def Jam. Wu guys RZA and Mathematics contribute production. Wu-Tang members Inspectah Deck and Cappadonna make appearances, as do associates like Streetlife, Solomon Childs, Trife, and Sun God. The live band Rhythm Roots Allstars plays on a few tracks, and Ghostface buddy Tracy Morgan shows up on a skit.
This Date In Music History - Febraury 24
Birthdays:
Paul Jones - Manfred Mann (1942)
Rupert Holmes - (1980 US #1 single "Escape, (The Pina Colada Song)" (1947)
Lonnie Turner - Steve Miller Band (1947)
George Thorogood (1950)
Bob Abrams - Buckinghams (1955)
Colin Farley - Cutting Crew (1959)
Michelle Shocked (1962)
Noah "Wuv" Bernardo Jr - P.O.D. (1974)
They Are Missed:
The late George Harrison ("My Sweet Lord") was born in 1943. Though he found fame and fortune as The Beatles' guitarist, Harrison (on his own) is best remembered for his "All Things Must Pass" album and his work with the Traveling Wilburys.
Singer, songwriter, pianist Johnnie Ray died of liver failure at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles in 1990. He scored over 20 Top 40 singles between 1952 & 1960.
Born on this day in 1944, Nicky Hopkins, session piano player who worked with The Rolling Stones, Jeff Beck, The Beatles, John Lennon, The Who and Small Faces. Hopkins died on September 6, 1994.
Estelle Axton, who helped create the legendary soul music label Stax, died in hospital in Memphis in 2004 (age 85). Stax was home to Otis Redding, Rufus Thomas, Isaac Hayes and Booker T and the MG's and the Stax studio, 'Soulsville USA', was second only to Motown in its production of soul hits during its 1960s heyday.
History:
In 1956, in Cleveland, OH, police invoked a 1931 ordinance barring people under the age of 18 from dancing in public unless accompanied by an adult.
In 1957, Buddy Holly recorded a new version of "That'll Be The Day," the title being taken from a phrase used by John Wayne in the film 'The Searchers.'
Today in 1958 the song "Get a Job" by the Silhouettes topped the charts and stayed there for 2 weeks.
The Rolling Stones started a Sunday night residency at The Station Hotel, Richmond, Surrey in 1963. The Stones were paid $41 for the gig and played on the first night to 66 people.
The Beach Boys recorded "Help Me Rhonda" in 1965.
In 1965, the first full day of filming took place for The Beatles movie ‘Help!’ with the group riding bicycles on location near London Airport, England.
The Jimi Hendrix Experience played their last ever-British performance when they appeared at the Royal Albert Hall in 1969.
Roberta Flack had her second #1 hit when "Killing Me Softly With His Song," started a five-week run at the top in 1973. The song was written about singer songwriter Don McLean.
The Byrds made their final live appearance when they played at The Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey in 1973.
In 1976, The Eagles 'Greatest Hits' became the first album to be certified platinum by the RIAA. New certification's represented sales of 1 million copies for albums and two million for singles.
"Roxanne" was released by The Police in 1979.
The Sex Pistols released the album "The Great Rock N' Roll Swindle" in 1979.
Winners at the 1982 Grammy Awards included John & Yoko Album of the year with 'Double Fantasy, Kim Carnes for Song of the year with "Bette Davis Eyes," Quincy Jones won producer of the year and Sheena Easton best new act.
"Higher Love" earns Steve Winwood Record of the Year and Best Pop Performance trophies at the 29th Grammy Awards in L.A. in 1987.
In 1988, Alice Cooper ran for governor of Arizona (and lost).
In 1990, Bob Dylan joined Roger McGuinn, Chris Hillman and David Crosby to sing "Mr. Tambourine Man" at a Los Angeles tribute to the late Roy Orbison.
The U.S. Postal Service unveils two designs for an Elvis Presley stamp in 1992 ("Young Elvis" defeats "Vegas Elvis" in subsequent voting).
Eric Clapton’s touching “Tears In Heaven” was a big winner at the Grammy Awards in 1993 (Song of the Year, Best Pop Vocal, Male, etc.). The Red Hot Chili Peppers’ "Give It Away" earns a Grammy for Best Hard Rock Song. The band also performs. Melissa Etheridge’s "Ain’t It Heavy" takes Best Rock Performance, Female. Peter Gabriel opened the L.A. show.
Lauryn Hill won five Grammy awards in 1999 for her debut solo album "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill."
In 2000, Carlos Santana won eight awards at this year Grammy Awards. Before the 'Supernatural' album, the guitarist had not had a Top 10 album since 1981. Sting won two awards, one for best pop album and another for best male pop vocalist. Sir Elton John won the legend award and Phil Collins the best soundtrack award for 'Tarzan'.
In 2006, U2's Bono was one of a 191 nominees for the Nobel Peace Prize. The singer's efforts to cancel Third World debt make him a contender for the $1.3 million honor which is awarded later in the year. No, he doesn't win - but it's an honor just to be nominated.
In 2009, the United States Mint launched a new coin featuring American composer, pianist and bandleader Duke Ellington, making him the first African-American to appear by himself on a US coin.
Also in 2009 - “The War Child Presents Heroes” compilation is out with songs by Paul McCartney, David Bowie, The Kinks, Bruce Springsteen and other Classic Rock acts re-recorded by a younger generation - Beck, Franz Ferdinand and Yeah Yeah Yeahs (to name a few). The collection benefits the War Child organization's campaign to aid young people in war-stricken areas. "It's great that so many talented people gave their time, energy and support to this initiative," says McCartney.
Paul Jones - Manfred Mann (1942)
Rupert Holmes - (1980 US #1 single "Escape, (The Pina Colada Song)" (1947)
Lonnie Turner - Steve Miller Band (1947)
George Thorogood (1950)
Bob Abrams - Buckinghams (1955)
Colin Farley - Cutting Crew (1959)
Michelle Shocked (1962)
Noah "Wuv" Bernardo Jr - P.O.D. (1974)
They Are Missed:
The late George Harrison ("My Sweet Lord") was born in 1943. Though he found fame and fortune as The Beatles' guitarist, Harrison (on his own) is best remembered for his "All Things Must Pass" album and his work with the Traveling Wilburys.
Singer, songwriter, pianist Johnnie Ray died of liver failure at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles in 1990. He scored over 20 Top 40 singles between 1952 & 1960.
Born on this day in 1944, Nicky Hopkins, session piano player who worked with The Rolling Stones, Jeff Beck, The Beatles, John Lennon, The Who and Small Faces. Hopkins died on September 6, 1994.
Estelle Axton, who helped create the legendary soul music label Stax, died in hospital in Memphis in 2004 (age 85). Stax was home to Otis Redding, Rufus Thomas, Isaac Hayes and Booker T and the MG's and the Stax studio, 'Soulsville USA', was second only to Motown in its production of soul hits during its 1960s heyday.
History:
In 1956, in Cleveland, OH, police invoked a 1931 ordinance barring people under the age of 18 from dancing in public unless accompanied by an adult.
In 1957, Buddy Holly recorded a new version of "That'll Be The Day," the title being taken from a phrase used by John Wayne in the film 'The Searchers.'
Today in 1958 the song "Get a Job" by the Silhouettes topped the charts and stayed there for 2 weeks.
The Rolling Stones started a Sunday night residency at The Station Hotel, Richmond, Surrey in 1963. The Stones were paid $41 for the gig and played on the first night to 66 people.
The Beach Boys recorded "Help Me Rhonda" in 1965.
In 1965, the first full day of filming took place for The Beatles movie ‘Help!’ with the group riding bicycles on location near London Airport, England.
The Jimi Hendrix Experience played their last ever-British performance when they appeared at the Royal Albert Hall in 1969.
Roberta Flack had her second #1 hit when "Killing Me Softly With His Song," started a five-week run at the top in 1973. The song was written about singer songwriter Don McLean.
The Byrds made their final live appearance when they played at The Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey in 1973.
In 1976, The Eagles 'Greatest Hits' became the first album to be certified platinum by the RIAA. New certification's represented sales of 1 million copies for albums and two million for singles.
"Roxanne" was released by The Police in 1979.
The Sex Pistols released the album "The Great Rock N' Roll Swindle" in 1979.
Winners at the 1982 Grammy Awards included John & Yoko Album of the year with 'Double Fantasy, Kim Carnes for Song of the year with "Bette Davis Eyes," Quincy Jones won producer of the year and Sheena Easton best new act.
"Higher Love" earns Steve Winwood Record of the Year and Best Pop Performance trophies at the 29th Grammy Awards in L.A. in 1987.
In 1988, Alice Cooper ran for governor of Arizona (and lost).
In 1990, Bob Dylan joined Roger McGuinn, Chris Hillman and David Crosby to sing "Mr. Tambourine Man" at a Los Angeles tribute to the late Roy Orbison.
The U.S. Postal Service unveils two designs for an Elvis Presley stamp in 1992 ("Young Elvis" defeats "Vegas Elvis" in subsequent voting).
Eric Clapton’s touching “Tears In Heaven” was a big winner at the Grammy Awards in 1993 (Song of the Year, Best Pop Vocal, Male, etc.). The Red Hot Chili Peppers’ "Give It Away" earns a Grammy for Best Hard Rock Song. The band also performs. Melissa Etheridge’s "Ain’t It Heavy" takes Best Rock Performance, Female. Peter Gabriel opened the L.A. show.
Lauryn Hill won five Grammy awards in 1999 for her debut solo album "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill."
In 2000, Carlos Santana won eight awards at this year Grammy Awards. Before the 'Supernatural' album, the guitarist had not had a Top 10 album since 1981. Sting won two awards, one for best pop album and another for best male pop vocalist. Sir Elton John won the legend award and Phil Collins the best soundtrack award for 'Tarzan'.
In 2006, U2's Bono was one of a 191 nominees for the Nobel Peace Prize. The singer's efforts to cancel Third World debt make him a contender for the $1.3 million honor which is awarded later in the year. No, he doesn't win - but it's an honor just to be nominated.
In 2009, the United States Mint launched a new coin featuring American composer, pianist and bandleader Duke Ellington, making him the first African-American to appear by himself on a US coin.
Also in 2009 - “The War Child Presents Heroes” compilation is out with songs by Paul McCartney, David Bowie, The Kinks, Bruce Springsteen and other Classic Rock acts re-recorded by a younger generation - Beck, Franz Ferdinand and Yeah Yeah Yeahs (to name a few). The collection benefits the War Child organization's campaign to aid young people in war-stricken areas. "It's great that so many talented people gave their time, energy and support to this initiative," says McCartney.
The vinyl album is getting its groove back
by Glenn Gamboa
NEW YORK - Don't bury the album just yet.
Yes, it's struggling, with album sales down by half since the historical high it set in 2000 - sales dropped another 8.5 percent in 2009 to 489.8 million, even as overall music sales climbed 2.1 percent, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Album-buying havens, such as the Virgin Megastores and the Tower Records chains, vanished, and music industry and technology leaders have been trumpeting what they see as the more attractive profit margins of single sales and $1.29-a-pop downloading for years.
That death knell sure is getting pretty loud. Or maybe it's just a wake-up call.
Britt Daniel - whose band, the indie-rockers Spoon, recently enjoyed commercial success with its first Top 5 album "Transference" - says, regardless of industry hype, the album will continue to validate both artists and music fans.
"It's certainly the test of a band's mettle," says Daniel, whose critical success was cemented when Spoon was named Artist of the Decade by Metacritic for the Austin, Texas, band's consistently praised albums in the 2000s. "It's hard to make an album's worth of songs and do it well. The ones that do occupy a higher place in mind and in psyche. ... Live shows can be wild and fun, life-changing if done really well. But a great album has always meant the most to me.
"Albums are what fans get into when they really get serious about a band," Daniel continues. "That's when they are finding something that means something to them, something that they feel is worth spending time with, that they will get to know what an album really is by listening the whole way through. Until they do that, they're just a casual listener, not the most passionate fan."
Daniel isn't alone in his vocal defense of the album. More and more artists and fans are banding together to support the album as an art form and as a way to distribute music. Independent record stores around the country have united to create Record Store Day, which takes place April 17, to "celebrate the art of music." Digital retailer eMusic has launched an "Embrace the Album" campaign on Facebook and Twitter, as a "place to highlight records that are best consumed whole."
"I do think there's still value in 11 great songs packaged together, flowing from start to finish," says J. Edward Keyes, eMusic's editor-in-chief (and an occasional Newsday contributor). "I think that's a testament to an artist's time and vision, and those are the kinds of things that will be a longer relationship. Marvin Gaye had a string of great pop singles, but What's Goin' On,' the album, is what people respond to. The Beach Boys had a string of unbeatable pop singles, but Pet Sounds' is what set them apart."
These campaigns may be having some effect. Though it's still a small fraction of the overall market, vinyl album sales were up 33 percent last year, to 2.5 million, the highest sales level since SoundScan started keeping records in 1991. And eMusic reports that about 72 percent of its sales are now full albums.
For more concrete proof, look no further than Long Island Vinyl Exchange in East Northport, N.Y. There under one roof, in all their touchable vinyl glory, are 250,000 albums - some vintage and some freshly pressed last week. Owner John DeSimone happily gives newcomers a tour of the store, which opened in November, and its treasures, before pointing out the recent shift in the album's fortunes.
"This is something I haven't been able to do for 20 years," says DeSimone, who is planning to open three more record stores this year. "Things are really changing."
Among the old standbys - Beatles classics, Michael Jackson's "Thriller," a shelf-full of Billy Joel albums - are the newcomers, Lady Gaga picture discs, and new releases from Grizzly Bear and Animal Collective. "I can't keep enough Animal Collective albums in the store," he says. "I order all I can, and they're gone just as fast."
All those Animal Collective sales are a sign that a new generation has "embraced the album," especially now that turntables are once again easy to find, including stand-alone models that will convert vinyl albums to MP3s that can be played on iPods and computers. "What the kids know today is that they get a piece of art when they buy an album - it's a tangible thing, it sounds better, it's different than downloading something," DeSimone says. "They own a piece of music."
Spoon's Daniel says artists get energized by crafting albums for that kind of audience. Even after completing the recording, artists are once again taking a great deal of care in sequencing, deciding what order works best for the songs. "Sequencing is always open for vigorous debate," Daniel says. "A song or two generally stands out as a good opener or a good closer. For Gimme Fiction,' The Beast and the Dragon, Adored' was a pretty obvious opener. On the last record, 'Black Like Me' was a pretty obvious closer."
All of it was in mind when Daniel was working on "Transference." "I just wanted it to feel like something like all of our records and have it take some left turns that you weren't expecting," he says. "What I hope you will find is that it hangs together."
Keyes says that kind of care is a road to long-term success. "How many people are going to keep going to see a band live if they only have three good songs?" he says. "Especially with indie bands, I feel like it's about a whole body of work that they are now selling out shows, that they are so in-demand."
Not everyone is sold, though.
Parts of the music industry are experimenting with configurations that are somewhere between the single track and the full-fledged 17-track album. In March, instead of releasing a full album, Blake Shelton will release a "six pak" on Warner Music Nashville, a six-song collection called "Hillbilly Bone" that will be followed by another six-song grouping scheduled for August.
"I talk to my fans every day, and the first question they ask me is, When are you going to release a new record?' " Shelton said in a statement. "I want to give my fans new music more often, and at a lower price. The fact that people will be able to get the new music for less money is a gift to my fans who have been behind me every step of the way."
Though much of the industry will always be focused on building flashy new acts like Ke$ha or Justin Bieber, Keyes says music fans may stop trying to follow all those twists and turns.
"I have to believe there is a point at which people are going to get tired of having to keep up with a new artist every 15 minutes," Keyes says. "I think they're going to want someone who's going to be around a little bit longer, with a little more substance to it."
"I think you can still make new music fans, who want albums," Keyes continues. "I think a big part of the industry's problem is people aren't hearing music that resonates with them."
Tracking The Top 10 Albums And Artists Of 09
According to Nielsen SoundScan, 2009 was the biggest year for vinyl album sales since they started keeping records in 1991.
Here are the vinyl albums and artists that topped their charts last year:
Top Albums
1. "Abbey Road," The Beatles
2. "Thriller," Michael Jackson
3. "Merriweather Post Pavilion," Animal Collective
4. "Wilco," Wilco
5. "Fleet Foxes," Fleet Foxes
6. "Backspacer," Pearl Jam
7. "Veckatimest," Grizzly Bear
8. "Appetite for Destruction," Guns N' Roses
9. "Big Whiskey & the GrooGrux King," Dave Matthews Band
10. "In Rainbows," Radiohead
Top Artists
1. Radiohead
2. The Beatles
3. Michael Jackson
4. Metallica
5. Wilco
6. Bob Dylan
7. Animal Collective
8. Pearl Jam
9. Bon Iver
10. Iron & Wine
SOURCE: http://www.azcentral.com/
NEW YORK - Don't bury the album just yet.
Yes, it's struggling, with album sales down by half since the historical high it set in 2000 - sales dropped another 8.5 percent in 2009 to 489.8 million, even as overall music sales climbed 2.1 percent, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Album-buying havens, such as the Virgin Megastores and the Tower Records chains, vanished, and music industry and technology leaders have been trumpeting what they see as the more attractive profit margins of single sales and $1.29-a-pop downloading for years.
That death knell sure is getting pretty loud. Or maybe it's just a wake-up call.
Britt Daniel - whose band, the indie-rockers Spoon, recently enjoyed commercial success with its first Top 5 album "Transference" - says, regardless of industry hype, the album will continue to validate both artists and music fans.
"It's certainly the test of a band's mettle," says Daniel, whose critical success was cemented when Spoon was named Artist of the Decade by Metacritic for the Austin, Texas, band's consistently praised albums in the 2000s. "It's hard to make an album's worth of songs and do it well. The ones that do occupy a higher place in mind and in psyche. ... Live shows can be wild and fun, life-changing if done really well. But a great album has always meant the most to me.
"Albums are what fans get into when they really get serious about a band," Daniel continues. "That's when they are finding something that means something to them, something that they feel is worth spending time with, that they will get to know what an album really is by listening the whole way through. Until they do that, they're just a casual listener, not the most passionate fan."
Daniel isn't alone in his vocal defense of the album. More and more artists and fans are banding together to support the album as an art form and as a way to distribute music. Independent record stores around the country have united to create Record Store Day, which takes place April 17, to "celebrate the art of music." Digital retailer eMusic has launched an "Embrace the Album" campaign on Facebook and Twitter, as a "place to highlight records that are best consumed whole."
"I do think there's still value in 11 great songs packaged together, flowing from start to finish," says J. Edward Keyes, eMusic's editor-in-chief (and an occasional Newsday contributor). "I think that's a testament to an artist's time and vision, and those are the kinds of things that will be a longer relationship. Marvin Gaye had a string of great pop singles, but What's Goin' On,' the album, is what people respond to. The Beach Boys had a string of unbeatable pop singles, but Pet Sounds' is what set them apart."
These campaigns may be having some effect. Though it's still a small fraction of the overall market, vinyl album sales were up 33 percent last year, to 2.5 million, the highest sales level since SoundScan started keeping records in 1991. And eMusic reports that about 72 percent of its sales are now full albums.
For more concrete proof, look no further than Long Island Vinyl Exchange in East Northport, N.Y. There under one roof, in all their touchable vinyl glory, are 250,000 albums - some vintage and some freshly pressed last week. Owner John DeSimone happily gives newcomers a tour of the store, which opened in November, and its treasures, before pointing out the recent shift in the album's fortunes.
"This is something I haven't been able to do for 20 years," says DeSimone, who is planning to open three more record stores this year. "Things are really changing."
Among the old standbys - Beatles classics, Michael Jackson's "Thriller," a shelf-full of Billy Joel albums - are the newcomers, Lady Gaga picture discs, and new releases from Grizzly Bear and Animal Collective. "I can't keep enough Animal Collective albums in the store," he says. "I order all I can, and they're gone just as fast."
All those Animal Collective sales are a sign that a new generation has "embraced the album," especially now that turntables are once again easy to find, including stand-alone models that will convert vinyl albums to MP3s that can be played on iPods and computers. "What the kids know today is that they get a piece of art when they buy an album - it's a tangible thing, it sounds better, it's different than downloading something," DeSimone says. "They own a piece of music."
Spoon's Daniel says artists get energized by crafting albums for that kind of audience. Even after completing the recording, artists are once again taking a great deal of care in sequencing, deciding what order works best for the songs. "Sequencing is always open for vigorous debate," Daniel says. "A song or two generally stands out as a good opener or a good closer. For Gimme Fiction,' The Beast and the Dragon, Adored' was a pretty obvious opener. On the last record, 'Black Like Me' was a pretty obvious closer."
All of it was in mind when Daniel was working on "Transference." "I just wanted it to feel like something like all of our records and have it take some left turns that you weren't expecting," he says. "What I hope you will find is that it hangs together."
Keyes says that kind of care is a road to long-term success. "How many people are going to keep going to see a band live if they only have three good songs?" he says. "Especially with indie bands, I feel like it's about a whole body of work that they are now selling out shows, that they are so in-demand."
Not everyone is sold, though.
Parts of the music industry are experimenting with configurations that are somewhere between the single track and the full-fledged 17-track album. In March, instead of releasing a full album, Blake Shelton will release a "six pak" on Warner Music Nashville, a six-song collection called "Hillbilly Bone" that will be followed by another six-song grouping scheduled for August.
"I talk to my fans every day, and the first question they ask me is, When are you going to release a new record?' " Shelton said in a statement. "I want to give my fans new music more often, and at a lower price. The fact that people will be able to get the new music for less money is a gift to my fans who have been behind me every step of the way."
Though much of the industry will always be focused on building flashy new acts like Ke$ha or Justin Bieber, Keyes says music fans may stop trying to follow all those twists and turns.
"I have to believe there is a point at which people are going to get tired of having to keep up with a new artist every 15 minutes," Keyes says. "I think they're going to want someone who's going to be around a little bit longer, with a little more substance to it."
"I think you can still make new music fans, who want albums," Keyes continues. "I think a big part of the industry's problem is people aren't hearing music that resonates with them."
Tracking The Top 10 Albums And Artists Of 09
According to Nielsen SoundScan, 2009 was the biggest year for vinyl album sales since they started keeping records in 1991.
Here are the vinyl albums and artists that topped their charts last year:
Top Albums
1. "Abbey Road," The Beatles
2. "Thriller," Michael Jackson
3. "Merriweather Post Pavilion," Animal Collective
4. "Wilco," Wilco
5. "Fleet Foxes," Fleet Foxes
6. "Backspacer," Pearl Jam
7. "Veckatimest," Grizzly Bear
8. "Appetite for Destruction," Guns N' Roses
9. "Big Whiskey & the GrooGrux King," Dave Matthews Band
10. "In Rainbows," Radiohead
Top Artists
1. Radiohead
2. The Beatles
3. Michael Jackson
4. Metallica
5. Wilco
6. Bob Dylan
7. Animal Collective
8. Pearl Jam
9. Bon Iver
10. Iron & Wine
SOURCE: http://www.azcentral.com/
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
New Music Releases - February 23, 2010
Buy New Vinyl Here: http://www.insound.com/
Alan Parsons Project - Poe: More Tales of Mystery & Imagination
Alexandre Desplat - The Ghost Writer (soundtrack)
Alexisonfire - Old Crows/Young Cardinals (vinyl)
Ali Farka Toure, Toumani Diabate - Ali & Toumani
Alkaline Trio - This Addiction (deluxe CD & DVD edition) (vinyl)
All Time High - Friends In High Places
Andrew W.K - I'm a Vagabond (vinyl)
Andrew W.K. - Close Calls With Brick Walls/Mother of Mankind
Aretha Franklin - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Aztec Camera - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Balmorhea - Constellations
Band - Rock of Ages (Mobile Fidelity)
Bear McCreary - Battlestar Galactica - The Plan / Razor (soundtrack)
Big Brother and the Holding Company - Lost Tapes (2 CDs)
Blind Man's Colour - Wooden Blankets (vinyl)
Blues Brothers - Made in America
Brian Jonestown Massacre - Who Killed Sgt Pepper (vinyl)
Buggles - Adventures in Modern Recording
Butch Walker - I Liked It Better When You Had No Heart (vinyl)
Carole King - Writer (Deluxe Edition)
Carrie Newcomer - Before & After
Cars - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Cassidy - Problem Is Back
Christine Kittrell - Call Her Name: The Complete Recordings 1951-1965
Christopher Young - Love Happens (soundtrack)
Clancy Brothers & Tommy Makem - Finnegan's Wake
Classic Nouveaux - The Liberty Singles Collection
Clem Snide - The Meat of Life
Con Funk Shun - Loveshine / Candy
DJ Khaled - Victory
Dan Black - ((un))
Dan Fogelberg - Live: Greetings From the West (Remastered)
Dana - Have a Nice Day / Love Songs & Fairytales/The Girl is Back (2 CDs)
Daniel Merriweather - Love & War (2-LP vinyl)
Danny Elfman - The Wolfman (soundtrack)
David Broza - Night Dawn: Unpublished Poetry of Townes Van Zandt
David Byrne and Fatboy Slim - Here Lies Love
Deadstring Brothers - Sao Paulo (vinyl)
Diana Ross - Touch Me in the Morning (2 CDs)
Dickey Betts - Collectors / Lets Get Together (2 CDs)
Donny Hathaway - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Echo & the Bunnymen - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Editors - You Don't Know Love EP
Efterklang - Magic Chairs (vinyl)
Electric President - Violent Blue (vinyl)
Eluvium - Similies
Fan Death - A Coin For The Well [EP]
Fang Island - Fang Island
Fela Kuti - Black Man's Cry (reissue)
Flatt & Scruggs and the Stanley Brothers - Flatt & Scruggs & Stanley Brothers 1952-1959 (4 CDs)
Foreigner - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Frankie Goes to Hollywood - Welcome to the Pleasuredome (2 CDs)
Free Energy - Stuck on Nothing
Fugs - Be Free: The Final CD 2
Gary Stewart - Cactus & a Rose/Collector's Series
Gentle Giant - Giant for a Day
Gentle Giant - Missing Piece
George Benson - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Georgia Anne Muldrow - SomeOthaShip
Gil Scott-Heron - Me & the Devil (vinyl)
Guy Clark - Guy Clark (Reissue)
Harold Faltermeyer - Cop Out (soundtrack)
Hawkwind - Sonic Attack (2 CDs)
Helen Reddy - Ear Candy / We'll Sing in the Sunshine
High on Fire - Snakes for the Divine (vinyl)
Holly Miranda - The Magician's Private Library (vinyl)
Hot Chip - One Life Stand (vinyl)
Hot Tuna - Double Dose
J. Geils Band - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Jack Rose - Luck In the Valley (vinyl)
Jackson Heights - Bump N Grind
Jackson Heights - Ragamuffin's Fool
Jaga Jazzist - One Armed Bandit
James L. Venable - Justice League: Crisis On Two Earth (soundtrack)
Jesus & Mary Chain - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Joan Armatrading - Walk Under Ladders (remastered)
Joanna Newsom - Have One On Me (vinyl)
John Zorn - In Search of the Miraculous
Johnny Cash - American VI: Aint No Grave
Johnny Horton - Fantastic Johnny Horton (vinyl)
Josh Thompson - Way Out Here
Joy Kills Sorrow - Darkness Sure Becomes This City
Julian Cope - Peggy Suicide: Deluxe Edition (2 CDs)
K-OS - Yes!
Keel - Right to Rock: 25th Anniversary Edition
Kidz In The Hall - Land Of Make Believe
Laura Nyro & Labelle - Gonna Take a Miracle
Lifehouse - Smoke & Mirrors
Linda Ronstadt - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Little Feat - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
LoneLady - Nerve Up (vinyl)
Los Lobos - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Madlib - Medicine Show No. 2: Flight To Brazil
Madness - Absolutely (2 CDs)
Madness - Seven (2 CDs)
Manhattan Transfer - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Marmalade - Only Light on My Horizon Now
Marty Wilde - Bad Boy
Martyn - Fabric 50
Meat Puppets - Meat Puppets II (vinyl reissue)
Merle Haggard - Kern River / Chill Factor (Reis)
Michael Jackson - Acapella Album (vinyl)
Michelle Branch - Everything Comes And Goes
Middle of the Road - Chirpy Chirpy Cheap Cheap / Acceleration / Drive On
Miles Davis - All Miles: The Prestige Albums (14-CD box set)
Molly Hatchet - Warriors of the Rainbow Bridge (vinyl)
Monkees - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
N.A.M.B. - BMAN
Natalie Cole - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Nazareth - Hair of the Dog (Extra Tracks)
Nazareth - Loud N Proud (Extra Tracks)
Nazareth - Rampant
Nick Thune - Thick Noon (CD & DVD)
Okapi - Love Him
Orleans - 75 Live: Harvard Square Theatre
Past Lives - Tapestry of Webs (vinyl)
Patti Dahlstrom - Emotion: the Music of
Pelican - What We All Come to Need (vinyl reissue)
Phantogram - Eyelid Movies (vinyl)
Phantom Communique - The Wolf And The Sheep
Picastro - Become Secret
Plimsouls - Live Beg Borrow & Steal: October 31, 1981, Whiskey (vinyl)
Pogues - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Pretenders - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Quasi - American Gong (vinyl)
Radio Dept. - Clinging to a Scheme
Ramblin' Jack Elliot - At Lansdowne Studios, London
Rickie Lee Jones - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Rob Swift - The Architect
Robin Guthrie - Sunflower Stories EP
Rocket Summer - Of Men And Angels
Rocky Votolato - True Devotion
Rod Stewart - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Rufus Thomas - Early Years
Sade - Soldier of Love (vinyl)
Sambassadeur - European
Sarah Buxton - Sarah Buxton
Serge Gainsbourg - Le Pacha (vinyl reissue)
Serge Gainsbourg - Poet & Provacateur
She & Him - In the Sun B/W I Can Hear Music (vinyl)
Shearwater - The Golden Archipeligo
Shellshag - Rumors in Disguise (vinyl)
Shout Out Louds - Work (vinyl)
Soul Children - Finders Keepers / Where Is Your Woman Tonight
Spirit - Last Euro Tour (2 CDs)
Stafraenn Hakon - Sanitas
Stevie Ray Vaughan - Couldn't Stand the Weather (vinyl)
Stevie Ray Vaughan - Soul to Soul (vinyl)
Stevie Ray Vaughan - Texas Flood (vinyl)
Strange Boys - Be Brave (vinyl)
Sugarloaf - Don't Call Us, We'll Call You
Superions - Superions EP
The New Loud - Can't Stop Not Knowing [EP]
The Streets - Computers And Blues
Toro Y Moi - Causers Of This
Tracy Shedd - EP88 (vinyl)
Tune-Yards - Real Live Flesh (vinyl)
Tunng - Hustle (vinyl)
Various Arists - Acoustic Tribute to Death Cab for Cutie
Various Artists - Brazilian Guitar Fuzz Bananas
Various Artists - Cave of Clear Light: Pye & Dawn Records 1967-1975 (3 CDs)
Various Artists - Hard to Find 45s on CD, Volume 11 (Sugar Pop Classics)
Various Artists - Rare West Coast Jump N Jive 1945-1954 (4 CDs)
Various Artists - Stroke: Songs for Chris Knox
Was (Not Was) - Pick of the Litter 1980-2010
We Are Wolves - Invisible Violence (vinyl)
Ween - Pod (vinyl reissue)
White Hills - White Hills (vinyl)
Wolf People - Tidings (vinyl)
Wolfmother - White Feather (vinyl)
Xasthur - 2005 Demo
Xiu Xiu - Dear God, I Hate Myself (vinyl)
Youngbloods - Earth Music (vinyl)
Youngbloods - Youngbloods (vinyl)
Zalman Yanovsky - Alive & Well in Argentina
Zeus - Say Us
Alan Parsons Project - Poe: More Tales of Mystery & Imagination
Alexandre Desplat - The Ghost Writer (soundtrack)
Alexisonfire - Old Crows/Young Cardinals (vinyl)
Ali Farka Toure, Toumani Diabate - Ali & Toumani
Alkaline Trio - This Addiction (deluxe CD & DVD edition) (vinyl)
All Time High - Friends In High Places
Andrew W.K - I'm a Vagabond (vinyl)
Andrew W.K. - Close Calls With Brick Walls/Mother of Mankind
Aretha Franklin - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Aztec Camera - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Balmorhea - Constellations
Band - Rock of Ages (Mobile Fidelity)
Bear McCreary - Battlestar Galactica - The Plan / Razor (soundtrack)
Big Brother and the Holding Company - Lost Tapes (2 CDs)
Blind Man's Colour - Wooden Blankets (vinyl)
Blues Brothers - Made in America
Brian Jonestown Massacre - Who Killed Sgt Pepper (vinyl)
Buggles - Adventures in Modern Recording
Butch Walker - I Liked It Better When You Had No Heart (vinyl)
Carole King - Writer (Deluxe Edition)
Carrie Newcomer - Before & After
Cars - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Cassidy - Problem Is Back
Christine Kittrell - Call Her Name: The Complete Recordings 1951-1965
Christopher Young - Love Happens (soundtrack)
Clancy Brothers & Tommy Makem - Finnegan's Wake
Classic Nouveaux - The Liberty Singles Collection
Clem Snide - The Meat of Life
Con Funk Shun - Loveshine / Candy
DJ Khaled - Victory
Dan Black - ((un))
Dan Fogelberg - Live: Greetings From the West (Remastered)
Dana - Have a Nice Day / Love Songs & Fairytales/The Girl is Back (2 CDs)
Daniel Merriweather - Love & War (2-LP vinyl)
Danny Elfman - The Wolfman (soundtrack)
David Broza - Night Dawn: Unpublished Poetry of Townes Van Zandt
David Byrne and Fatboy Slim - Here Lies Love
Deadstring Brothers - Sao Paulo (vinyl)
Diana Ross - Touch Me in the Morning (2 CDs)
Dickey Betts - Collectors / Lets Get Together (2 CDs)
Donny Hathaway - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Echo & the Bunnymen - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Editors - You Don't Know Love EP
Efterklang - Magic Chairs (vinyl)
Electric President - Violent Blue (vinyl)
Eluvium - Similies
Fan Death - A Coin For The Well [EP]
Fang Island - Fang Island
Fela Kuti - Black Man's Cry (reissue)
Flatt & Scruggs and the Stanley Brothers - Flatt & Scruggs & Stanley Brothers 1952-1959 (4 CDs)
Foreigner - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Frankie Goes to Hollywood - Welcome to the Pleasuredome (2 CDs)
Free Energy - Stuck on Nothing
Fugs - Be Free: The Final CD 2
Gary Stewart - Cactus & a Rose/Collector's Series
Gentle Giant - Giant for a Day
Gentle Giant - Missing Piece
George Benson - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Georgia Anne Muldrow - SomeOthaShip
Gil Scott-Heron - Me & the Devil (vinyl)
Guy Clark - Guy Clark (Reissue)
Harold Faltermeyer - Cop Out (soundtrack)
Hawkwind - Sonic Attack (2 CDs)
Helen Reddy - Ear Candy / We'll Sing in the Sunshine
High on Fire - Snakes for the Divine (vinyl)
Holly Miranda - The Magician's Private Library (vinyl)
Hot Chip - One Life Stand (vinyl)
Hot Tuna - Double Dose
J. Geils Band - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Jack Rose - Luck In the Valley (vinyl)
Jackson Heights - Bump N Grind
Jackson Heights - Ragamuffin's Fool
Jaga Jazzist - One Armed Bandit
James L. Venable - Justice League: Crisis On Two Earth (soundtrack)
Jesus & Mary Chain - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Joan Armatrading - Walk Under Ladders (remastered)
Joanna Newsom - Have One On Me (vinyl)
John Zorn - In Search of the Miraculous
Johnny Cash - American VI: Aint No Grave
Johnny Horton - Fantastic Johnny Horton (vinyl)
Josh Thompson - Way Out Here
Joy Kills Sorrow - Darkness Sure Becomes This City
Julian Cope - Peggy Suicide: Deluxe Edition (2 CDs)
K-OS - Yes!
Keel - Right to Rock: 25th Anniversary Edition
Kidz In The Hall - Land Of Make Believe
Laura Nyro & Labelle - Gonna Take a Miracle
Lifehouse - Smoke & Mirrors
Linda Ronstadt - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Little Feat - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
LoneLady - Nerve Up (vinyl)
Los Lobos - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Madlib - Medicine Show No. 2: Flight To Brazil
Madness - Absolutely (2 CDs)
Madness - Seven (2 CDs)
Manhattan Transfer - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Marmalade - Only Light on My Horizon Now
Marty Wilde - Bad Boy
Martyn - Fabric 50
Meat Puppets - Meat Puppets II (vinyl reissue)
Merle Haggard - Kern River / Chill Factor (Reis)
Michael Jackson - Acapella Album (vinyl)
Michelle Branch - Everything Comes And Goes
Middle of the Road - Chirpy Chirpy Cheap Cheap / Acceleration / Drive On
Miles Davis - All Miles: The Prestige Albums (14-CD box set)
Molly Hatchet - Warriors of the Rainbow Bridge (vinyl)
Monkees - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
N.A.M.B. - BMAN
Natalie Cole - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Nazareth - Hair of the Dog (Extra Tracks)
Nazareth - Loud N Proud (Extra Tracks)
Nazareth - Rampant
Nick Thune - Thick Noon (CD & DVD)
Okapi - Love Him
Orleans - 75 Live: Harvard Square Theatre
Past Lives - Tapestry of Webs (vinyl)
Patti Dahlstrom - Emotion: the Music of
Pelican - What We All Come to Need (vinyl reissue)
Phantogram - Eyelid Movies (vinyl)
Phantom Communique - The Wolf And The Sheep
Picastro - Become Secret
Plimsouls - Live Beg Borrow & Steal: October 31, 1981, Whiskey (vinyl)
Pogues - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Pretenders - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Quasi - American Gong (vinyl)
Radio Dept. - Clinging to a Scheme
Ramblin' Jack Elliot - At Lansdowne Studios, London
Rickie Lee Jones - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Rob Swift - The Architect
Robin Guthrie - Sunflower Stories EP
Rocket Summer - Of Men And Angels
Rocky Votolato - True Devotion
Rod Stewart - Original Album Series (5 CDs)
Rufus Thomas - Early Years
Sade - Soldier of Love (vinyl)
Sambassadeur - European
Sarah Buxton - Sarah Buxton
Serge Gainsbourg - Le Pacha (vinyl reissue)
Serge Gainsbourg - Poet & Provacateur
She & Him - In the Sun B/W I Can Hear Music (vinyl)
Shearwater - The Golden Archipeligo
Shellshag - Rumors in Disguise (vinyl)
Shout Out Louds - Work (vinyl)
Soul Children - Finders Keepers / Where Is Your Woman Tonight
Spirit - Last Euro Tour (2 CDs)
Stafraenn Hakon - Sanitas
Stevie Ray Vaughan - Couldn't Stand the Weather (vinyl)
Stevie Ray Vaughan - Soul to Soul (vinyl)
Stevie Ray Vaughan - Texas Flood (vinyl)
Strange Boys - Be Brave (vinyl)
Sugarloaf - Don't Call Us, We'll Call You
Superions - Superions EP
The New Loud - Can't Stop Not Knowing [EP]
The Streets - Computers And Blues
Toro Y Moi - Causers Of This
Tracy Shedd - EP88 (vinyl)
Tune-Yards - Real Live Flesh (vinyl)
Tunng - Hustle (vinyl)
Various Arists - Acoustic Tribute to Death Cab for Cutie
Various Artists - Brazilian Guitar Fuzz Bananas
Various Artists - Cave of Clear Light: Pye & Dawn Records 1967-1975 (3 CDs)
Various Artists - Hard to Find 45s on CD, Volume 11 (Sugar Pop Classics)
Various Artists - Rare West Coast Jump N Jive 1945-1954 (4 CDs)
Various Artists - Stroke: Songs for Chris Knox
Was (Not Was) - Pick of the Litter 1980-2010
We Are Wolves - Invisible Violence (vinyl)
Ween - Pod (vinyl reissue)
White Hills - White Hills (vinyl)
Wolf People - Tidings (vinyl)
Wolfmother - White Feather (vinyl)
Xasthur - 2005 Demo
Xiu Xiu - Dear God, I Hate Myself (vinyl)
Youngbloods - Earth Music (vinyl)
Youngbloods - Youngbloods (vinyl)
Zalman Yanovsky - Alive & Well in Argentina
Zeus - Say Us
Vinyl Records In The News
Vinyl records seeing resurgence in popularity
By Matthew Jacobs
Vinyl records are going for a spin again, as the once-universal music format makes a comeback across the recording industry.
Record sales skyrocketed in 2008, with 2.1 million vinyl albums sold through November, according to Nielsen SoundScan, an information system that tracks music sales. And 2009 saw the highest number of record sales since 1991.
In 2006 and 2007, vinyl record sales increased 14 percent as CD sales plummeted 35 percent, according to Nielsen.
The Compact Disc Store on Jefferson Highway, a local music store and Baton Rouge staple since its opening in November 1984, has reported a spike in sales in conjunction with the return of the classic record format.
“Five years ago, we started noticing that people were wanting vinyl again,” said Brad Pope, co-owner of The Compact Disc Store. “At that time, only a few things were on vinyl. Now, almost everything gets a [vinyl] release.”
Read the rest here: http://www.lsureveille.com/entertainment/vinyl-records-seeing-resurgence-in-popularity-1.2158692
===============================
Play it again: Vinyl records spin out of obscurity and find new fans
by ROD LOCKWOOD
BLADE STAFF WRITER
Imagine if all of a sudden people started buying typewriters again. And not just old fogeys fed up with computers, but young, hip types in their 20s.
Then imagine that rather than display those noisy old contraptions in a nook of their apartment, they actually used them all the time, to the degree that sales of things like typewriter ribbons actually increased over the course of a year.
Weird, huh?
This is the music industry in 2010. Decades after compact discs came in and gut-punched the vinyl record industry into oblivion, and about 10 years after downloading knee-capped the old long-player into what seemed like permanent obsolescence there's one part of the businesses that's making a comeback:
Vinyl records.
Read the rest here: http://toledoblade.com/article/20100214/ART10/100219806
By Matthew Jacobs
Vinyl records are going for a spin again, as the once-universal music format makes a comeback across the recording industry.
Record sales skyrocketed in 2008, with 2.1 million vinyl albums sold through November, according to Nielsen SoundScan, an information system that tracks music sales. And 2009 saw the highest number of record sales since 1991.
In 2006 and 2007, vinyl record sales increased 14 percent as CD sales plummeted 35 percent, according to Nielsen.
The Compact Disc Store on Jefferson Highway, a local music store and Baton Rouge staple since its opening in November 1984, has reported a spike in sales in conjunction with the return of the classic record format.
“Five years ago, we started noticing that people were wanting vinyl again,” said Brad Pope, co-owner of The Compact Disc Store. “At that time, only a few things were on vinyl. Now, almost everything gets a [vinyl] release.”
Read the rest here: http://www.lsureveille.com/entertainment/vinyl-records-seeing-resurgence-in-popularity-1.2158692
===============================
Play it again: Vinyl records spin out of obscurity and find new fans
by ROD LOCKWOOD
BLADE STAFF WRITER
Imagine if all of a sudden people started buying typewriters again. And not just old fogeys fed up with computers, but young, hip types in their 20s.
Then imagine that rather than display those noisy old contraptions in a nook of their apartment, they actually used them all the time, to the degree that sales of things like typewriter ribbons actually increased over the course of a year.
Weird, huh?
This is the music industry in 2010. Decades after compact discs came in and gut-punched the vinyl record industry into oblivion, and about 10 years after downloading knee-capped the old long-player into what seemed like permanent obsolescence there's one part of the businesses that's making a comeback:
Vinyl records.
Read the rest here: http://toledoblade.com/article/20100214/ART10/100219806
Vinyl Record News
Sick Of It All To Reissue First Two Albums On Vinyl
Reflections Records will re-release the first two albums from New York hardcore legends Sick Of It All — "Blood, Sweat And No Tears" (originally released on July 12, 1989) and "Just Look Around" (1992). Both albums will feature original artwork but be packaged in a gatefold sleeve. They will be limited to 500 copies.
Sick Of It All's new album,"Based On A True Story", is scheduled for release on April 20 via Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2006's "Death To Tyrants" was recorded Antfarm Studios in Århus, Denmark with Danish producer Tue Madsen (Halford, Behemoth, Kataklysm, The Haunted).
=============================================
The Society Of Rockets Announce Release Date For Double Vinyl
America is still number one in space and time exploration now that San Francisco's The Society of Rockets has recorded its fourth album, "Future Factory," due out March 16. The band's singer and cosmonaut leader, Joshua Babcock has proclaimed the 21-track psych-pop album as being "designed to function as an hour-long sonic map of utopias that never were and have yet to be."
The Society of Rockets are currently docked out in San Francisco's industrial Dogpatch neighborhood, where Babcock's team of musical chemists includes Adam Dobrer on bass, David Isbister on piano and keyboards, Steve Wertheim on drums, Robin Wageman on guitar, and multi-instrumentalist Lorelei David on theremin, flute, and xylophone. Longtime associate Ben Tinker also joined in, contributing all of the freshly unearthed analog synth tones peppered throughout "Future Factory," the follow-up to 2007's critically acclaimed "Our Paths Related."
The lab results for "Future Factory" have tested positive for a kind of Faust (Krautrock) meets Unrest ('90s Indie) meets Milton Nascimento (post-Tropicalia samba) concoction.
Babcock's original hypothesis was to take the songs from the "Future Factory" sessions and find a way to make them play in a different order on every listen, creating an audio jigsaw puzzle that would constantly rearrange itself. In the end, the band's enduring vinyl obsession prevailed, resulting in this lovingly crafted 180-gram white vinyl double album.
=============================================
Minus the Bear announce Omni
Seattle-based quintet Minus the Bear are very excited to announce the release of their new album, OMNI, set for a May 4th release on Dangerbird Records. Produced by Grammy Award winning producer Joe Chiccarelli (The White Stripes, My Morning Jacket), OMNI showcases the quintet's remarkable gift to craft visionary and gripping compositions, and with the assistance of Chiccarelli, revealing new layers in their songwriting as they pursue the next level in their inimitable musical style. With the exploration of erotic themes and fascinating tales of human sexual relationships, OMNI is a riveting new album of rich soundscapes illustrated by Minus The Bear's trademark precision and tremendous growth as artistic lyricists and songwriters. Beginning April 21st, Minus the Bear will embark on a 6-week North American tour premiering these new tracks. Dates to be announced shortly. OMNI marks the first release for the band on Dangerbird Records.
Over the years, Minus the Bear has won over legions of fans and critics with an exhilarating live show and a sound that is uniquely their own. With a devoted fan base, Minus the Bear sell out 2000-capacity venues nationwide whether on or off album cycle, have generated more than 13 million plays on MySpace, and continuously release new material (EPs and singles) to fan and critical acclaim.
www.myspace.com/minusthebear
http://www.minusthebear.com/
=============================================
Eternal Summers Announce EP; Make Track Available Online For Free
Eternal Summers announce their self-titled EP to be released on March 13th on Chimney Sweep Records. The record will be available on limited edition 10" vinyl as well as from online retailers. In anticipation of the release, they have made the first single "Able To" available for free download via RCRD LBL beginning today.
=============================================
FIREWIND's 'The Premonition' To Be Released On Vinyl
"The Premonition", the latest album from Greek melodic metallers FIREWIND — who feature in their ranks current OZZY OSBOURNE guitarist Gus G. — will be released on vinyl on March 8 via Century Media Records. The band's first-ever vinyl release will contain one bonus track.
FIREWIND recently parted ways with drummer Mark Cross (ex-HELLOWEEN, METALIUM) due to personal differences. Sitting behind the kit for FIREWIND for the band's three since-cancelled shows in Mexico in February was supposed to be Michael Ehre (ULI JON ROTH, KEE MARCELLO).
FIREWIND is currently working on material for a new studio album, tentatively due later in the year via Century Media Records.
Reflections Records will re-release the first two albums from New York hardcore legends Sick Of It All — "Blood, Sweat And No Tears" (originally released on July 12, 1989) and "Just Look Around" (1992). Both albums will feature original artwork but be packaged in a gatefold sleeve. They will be limited to 500 copies.
Sick Of It All's new album,"Based On A True Story", is scheduled for release on April 20 via Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2006's "Death To Tyrants" was recorded Antfarm Studios in Århus, Denmark with Danish producer Tue Madsen (Halford, Behemoth, Kataklysm, The Haunted).
=============================================
The Society Of Rockets Announce Release Date For Double Vinyl
America is still number one in space and time exploration now that San Francisco's The Society of Rockets has recorded its fourth album, "Future Factory," due out March 16. The band's singer and cosmonaut leader, Joshua Babcock has proclaimed the 21-track psych-pop album as being "designed to function as an hour-long sonic map of utopias that never were and have yet to be."
The Society of Rockets are currently docked out in San Francisco's industrial Dogpatch neighborhood, where Babcock's team of musical chemists includes Adam Dobrer on bass, David Isbister on piano and keyboards, Steve Wertheim on drums, Robin Wageman on guitar, and multi-instrumentalist Lorelei David on theremin, flute, and xylophone. Longtime associate Ben Tinker also joined in, contributing all of the freshly unearthed analog synth tones peppered throughout "Future Factory," the follow-up to 2007's critically acclaimed "Our Paths Related."
The lab results for "Future Factory" have tested positive for a kind of Faust (Krautrock) meets Unrest ('90s Indie) meets Milton Nascimento (post-Tropicalia samba) concoction.
Babcock's original hypothesis was to take the songs from the "Future Factory" sessions and find a way to make them play in a different order on every listen, creating an audio jigsaw puzzle that would constantly rearrange itself. In the end, the band's enduring vinyl obsession prevailed, resulting in this lovingly crafted 180-gram white vinyl double album.
=============================================
Minus the Bear announce Omni
Seattle-based quintet Minus the Bear are very excited to announce the release of their new album, OMNI, set for a May 4th release on Dangerbird Records. Produced by Grammy Award winning producer Joe Chiccarelli (The White Stripes, My Morning Jacket), OMNI showcases the quintet's remarkable gift to craft visionary and gripping compositions, and with the assistance of Chiccarelli, revealing new layers in their songwriting as they pursue the next level in their inimitable musical style. With the exploration of erotic themes and fascinating tales of human sexual relationships, OMNI is a riveting new album of rich soundscapes illustrated by Minus The Bear's trademark precision and tremendous growth as artistic lyricists and songwriters. Beginning April 21st, Minus the Bear will embark on a 6-week North American tour premiering these new tracks. Dates to be announced shortly. OMNI marks the first release for the band on Dangerbird Records.
Over the years, Minus the Bear has won over legions of fans and critics with an exhilarating live show and a sound that is uniquely their own. With a devoted fan base, Minus the Bear sell out 2000-capacity venues nationwide whether on or off album cycle, have generated more than 13 million plays on MySpace, and continuously release new material (EPs and singles) to fan and critical acclaim.
www.myspace.com/minusthebear
http://www.minusthebear.com/
=============================================
Eternal Summers Announce EP; Make Track Available Online For Free
=============================================
FIREWIND's 'The Premonition' To Be Released On Vinyl
FIREWIND recently parted ways with drummer Mark Cross (ex-HELLOWEEN, METALIUM) due to personal differences. Sitting behind the kit for FIREWIND for the band's three since-cancelled shows in Mexico in February was supposed to be Michael Ehre (ULI JON ROTH, KEE MARCELLO).
FIREWIND is currently working on material for a new studio album, tentatively due later in the year via Century Media Records.