Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Vinyl Record News & Music Notes

very impressive article, well worth the read. not sure if everyone who buys vinyl is an audiophile, i don't consider myself one. hey, if you play your 45s on your grandmother's old suitcase-style turntable and you enjoy your music, that is what it is all about......

A Dead Format?

by Sammi Chichester

For what many may think is a dead format, the fact is that sales of vinyl records are increasing year after year. Nielsen SoundScan projects vinyl in 2011 to have a 25 percent increase in sales from the
previous year. But how much is really sold, who buys it, and why?

For perspective, Nielsen has reported about 1 million vinyl sales every year in the past decade stating in 1995. Then in 2008, sales jumped to 2 million and then another half million the following two years.

The projections show this year to have a total finishing sale of 3.6 million, including many from top-selling artists such as Radiohead, Foo Fighters and Mumford & Sons. While it is true that digital downloads account for more than half of all music sales, the June mid-year report by Nielsen showed 155 million records were sold in all formats. Rock is the most popular genre with 52 million sales and rock’s close partner genre, alternative, makes up another 27 million in sales. “About 93 of the 100 best selling vinyl albums in 2011 fall within the rock or alternative genres,” the report states.

Even if vinyl records only account for about 2 percent of the music industry’s sales, the trend cannot be ignored because of one of the final statements worth noting – “Two out of every three vinyl albums are purchased at an independent music store.”

Read the rest at news.cnet.com

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great to see!

Oklahoma pair stake out new career as vinyl record producers as medium makes comeback

Vinyl records, declared dead a quarter century ago, are making a comeback. It was enough to prompt friends Rob Vera and Clint McEwen to take a shot on forming their own record company in Oklahoma City, Okie Dope Records.

BY STEVE LACKMEYER

Vinyl records, declared dead a quarter century ago, are making a comeback.

In an age when it's assumed compact discs will join the list of dead media, one-time vinyl record owners like J.D. Merryweather are rebuilding collections. And the surge in interest is prompting music
enthusiasts to recast themselves as record producers.

Read more at newsok.com

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i've read a lot of this writer Steve Guttenberg's material and always am on the lookout for more - here is poses the question of youngsters buying vinyl, so, if you are under 40 or so, drop him a line and tell him why vinyl is so appealing.....

Poll: Why do young people play LPs?

by Steve Guttenberg

I'm over 40 and still play and buy new records, but I'm curious about why younger people are getting into vinyl. Is it the sound, the feel, or the satisfaction of holding a nice hunk of vinyl in your hands?

I'd like to hear from my younger LP playing readers; please tell us in the Comments section why you listen to LPs, and where you buy them.

Read the rest and chime in at news.cnet.com

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Screaming Females New Album Artwork

The garage punk band Screaming Females have recently announced that their fifth studio album, 'UGLY ' will be released on April 3rd via Don Giovanni Records. Preceding the LP release the New Brunswick group will put out a 7" of the LP's first single "It All Means Nothing" on February 11th. The effort was produced by Steve Albini.
Tracklist:
1. It All Means Nothing
2. Rotten Apple
3. Extinction
4. Red Hand
5. 5 High
6. Expire
7. Crow's Nest
8. Tell Me No
9. Leave It All Up to Me
10. Doom 84
11. Help Me
12. Something Ugly
13. Slow Birth
14. It's Nice



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The Mars Volta New Album Due in March

The Mars Volta will release their sixth album, 'Noctourniquet,' on March 27. This is another one of their concept records and the songs will center on a character based on Superman villain Solomon Grundy and the mythical Greek figure Hyacinthus.

Tracklist
1. The Whip Hand
2. Aegis
3. Dyslexicon
4. Empty Vessels Make the Loudest Sound
5. The Malkin Jewel
6. Lapochka
7. 'n Absentia
8. Imago
9. Molochwalker
10. Trinkets Pale of Moon
11. Vedamalady
12. Noctourniquet
13. Zed and Two Naughts


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ENTHRONED 'Obsidium' Cover Artwork Unveiled

Belgian black metallers ENTHRONED recently signed on with Agonia Records and the band's new effort, 'Obsidium' is set for releases in early 2012. The cover artwork, which was created by Olve J. W.l.



















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Punch Brothers' New Album Available For Pre-Order

The Punch Brothers new album, 'Who’s Feeling Young Now?,' is due out February 14 via Nonesuch Records and is now available for pre-order in the Nonesuch Store. Pre-orders include an instant download of the album's opening track, "Movement and Location," plus an exclusive set of five custom Punch Brothers paper coasters illustrated by New Yorker cartoonist Matthew Diffee and signed by the band. The vinyl album, also available to pre-order, is due out on March 20. Completed over three weeks at Blackbird Studios in Nashville, 'Who's Feeling Young Now?' was produced by Grammy Award winner Jacquire Kingtic.

Legendary producer T Bone Burnett recently said of Punch Brothers, in an interview with American Songwriter magazine: "That’s one of the most incredible bands this country has ever produced. Chris Thile, their mandolin player, is probably a once in a century musician, like Louis Armstrong was a once in a century musician. Chris is one of those kind of cats."

Pre-order Here




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MESHUGGAH Album Art Revealed

Here is the cover art for Meshuggah's highly anticipated new album called 'Koloss.' The album is due out on March 27th via Nuclear Blast.
Tracklist
'I Am Colossus'
'The Demon’s Name Is Surveillance'
'Do Not Look Down'
'Behind The Sun'
'The Hurt That Finds You First'
'Marrow'
'Break Those Bones Whose Sinews Gave It Motion'
'Swarm'
'Demiurge'
'The Last Vigil'










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Pre-Order Xiu Xiu Always CD/LP+MP3/T-Shirt+MP3

New album announced! In stores March 6. Pre-orders ship Feb. 24.

LP limited to 500 on 180-gram clear pink vinyl.

At its core, Always symbolizes the mutual camaraderie with and deep dedication to each person who has internalized Xiu Xiu's work, tattooed its name on their skin or soul, and throughout the past ten years made the band a part of their lives.

Produced by Deerhoof's Greg Saunier (who also contributes drums and vocals to the album) and mixed by John Congleton (Antony and the Johnsons, Marylin Manson,the Roots) Always is positively vibrant.

Pre-order the album in a variety of options:
CD
180-gram black vinyl (includes 2-sided 18" x 24" photo collage and lyric poster)
Limited edition 180-gram clear pink vinyl (500 copies, includes 2-sided poster)
T-Shirt + MP3
Package deals with new album + t-shirt or Jamie Stewart's new collection of haikus, A Neo Tropical Companion
All pre-orders include two FREE 1" buttons and ship Feb. 24. In stores March 6.

Pre-order Here

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Meat Loaf Announces New Album

Meat Loaf promised three new albums to commemorate his 40th anniversary of his career and the first, ‘Hell in a Handbasket,’ is scheduled for a March 13 release.

”‘Hell In A Handbasket’ is the most personal record I’ve ever made,” Meat Loaf stated in a press release. ”It’s really the first record I’ve ever put out about how I feel about life and how I feel about what’s going on at the moment.”

Tracklist
1. All of Me
2. The Giving Tree
3. Live or Die
4. Blue Sky/Mad Mad World/The Good God is a Woman and She Don’t Like Ugly’(feat. Chuck D)
5. California Dreamin feat. Patti Russo
6. Party of One
7. Another Day
8. 40 Days
9. Our Love and Our Souls (feat. Patti Russo)
10. Stand in the Storm (feat. Trace Adkins, Lil Jon and Mark McGrath)
11. Blue Sky
12. Fall From Grace

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Diamond Head, UFO Drummer Robbie France Dead At Age 53

by: Dave Swanson

Former Diamond Head, UFO and Wishbone Ash drummer Robbie France passed away on Saturday (Jan. 14) at age 53. France was only with the UK metal band for a short time, but his work with them was crucial to the development of one of the groups Metallica has frequently cited as an important influence on their music.

France was born in England but moved to Australia at age 11. There he studied at the National Academy of Rudimentary Drummers and eventually became a music teacher at the Australian Academy of Music.

After moving back to the UK in 1982 he joined up with Diamond Head during the famed ‘New Wave Of British Heavy Metal’ era, playing the legendary Monsters Of Rock/Castle Donnington festival alongside Dio, Twisted Sister, Whitesnake and ZZ Top.

Read more at ultimateclassicrock.com

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Rock Guitar Legend Tommy Bolin Paid Tribute on "Great Gypsy Soul"

CD AND SPECIAL EDITION DOUBLE CD WITH BONUS TRACKS SET FOR RELEASE MARCH 27 ON 429 RECORDS

All Star Lineup Contributes To All New Recordings of "Teaser" Tracks Performing Alongside Bolin

Guests Include Peter Frampton, Warren Haynes, Nels Cline, Steve Morse, Steve Lukather, Brad Whitford, Joe Bonamassa and Others.

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Jan. 18, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- In the annals of rock history, Tommy Bolin occupied a brief, but shining stint as a brilliant guitarist who wowed those in the know with his mastery of many genres—rock, fusion, funk, reggae and heavy metal among others. Along with a much lauded solo career that, pushed the boundaries of rock/jazz fusion, Bolin played with The James Gang and Deep Purple which set him up for major solo guitar stardom which was cut short by his untimely death in 1976. Not to be overlooked, there's been much written about the guitar wunderkind and now a top notch roster of players have signed on to pay tribute to Bolin on GREAT GYPSY SOUL. Produced by Greg Hampton and Warren Haynes, it's a remarkable project that brings together major players who actually perform alongside Tommy Bolin's playing and vocals from the recording outtakes to his solo debut album "Teaser." Peter Frampton, Warren Haynes (a key supporter of the project), Nels Cline, Steve Lukather, Steve Morse, Brad Whitford, Joe Bonamassa, John Scofield, Derek Trucks, Glenn Hughes and Myles Kennedy all contribute to this amazing project. GREAT GYPSY SOUL will be released on 429 Records on March 27 in both a single CD format and double CD with bonus tracks. A series of promotional concerts are also in the works.

Tommy Bolin was the quintessential guitar prodigy who focused his talents within the burgeoning rock/metal scenes of the early 70's as well as mastered a highly lauded jazz fusion technique, catching the attention of rock tastemakers and guitar legend peers. It was just a matter of time before Bolin was making a name for himself playing on projects as diverse as Billy Cobham's "Spectrum" project (considered one of the great jazz fusion recordings of all time), replacing Joe Walsh in the James Gang, playing session work on seminal fusion projects by Moxy and Alphonse Mouzon, to replacing Ritchie Blackmore in Deep Purple. With the release of his second solo album "Private Eyes", what should have been a red letter moment for Bolin, opening up for Jeff Beck in Miami, sadly turned tragic as Bolin was found dead of an overdose shortly after the gig.

Says Warren Haynes: "Many of the guests added after the fact have a close personal connection to Tommy—all share in acknowledging his place in rock history. Watching (and hearing) it all come to fruition some 35 years later was a journey of its own—well worth the travel."

Track Listing:
Disc 1
1.The Grind w/ Peter Frampton
2.Teaser w/ Warren Haynes
3.Dreamer w/ Myles Kennedy and Nels Cline
4.Savannah Woman w/ John Scofield
5.Smooth Fandango w/ Derek Trucks
6.People People w/ Big Sugar and Gordie Johnson
7.Wild Dogs w/ Brad Whitford
8.Homeward Strut w/ Steve Lukather
9.Sugar Shack w/ Glenn Hughes and Sonny Landreth
10.Crazed Fandango w/ Steve Morse
11.Lotus w/ Joe Bonamassa, Glenn Huges and Nels Cline

Disc 2 Bonus CD
1.Flying Fingers w/ Oz Noy and Nels Cline
2.Marching Bag –Movement One w/ Nels Cline, Bolin, Greg Hampton, John Scofield, Sonny Landreth
3.Marching Bag—Movement Two w/ Nels Cline, Bolin, Steve Lukather, Derek Trucks, Peter Frampton
4.Marching Bag—Movement Three w/ Gordie Johnson, Bolin, Nels Cline, Oz Noy, Steve Lukather, Steve Morse, Joe Bonamassa
5.Marching Bag—Movement Four w/ Nels Cline, Bolin, Warren Haynes, Joe Bonamassa, Oz Noy, Brad Whitford, Peter Frampton

SOURCE 429 Records

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this from our friends at vinylcollective.com

OOP Warning: Blink 182 Neighborhoods First Pressing

It appears as if the first pressing of Blink 182 Neighborhoods is coming down to the last copies! The album was released in late 2011 and is the first new material from Blink in many years! Three variants were pressed, with only a few of two colors left:

Blink 182 – Neighborhoods LP (White, LTD 3,500 - VERY few left)

Blink 182 – Neighborhoods LP (Blue/White) (Blue/White Record Store Day pressing, LTD 2,500)






Sleigh Bells – Reign of Terror Vinyl LP Pre Order

Sleigh Bells are set to release, “Reign of Terror” the anticipated album since their 2010 release. The album will be out on wax February 21. It is noted that it will be a gatefold with nine unique insert art pieces!

Pre order your copy now here








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GRIMEY'S BEST SELLERS 1/09 - 1/15, 2012

Vinyl Top 25:

1. The Black Keys - El Camino
2. The Civil Wars - Barton Hollow
3. Guided By Voices - Let's Go Eat The Factory
4. Bon Iver - Bon Iver
5. Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues
6. Jellyfish - Bellybutton
7. Alex Chilton - Free Again: The 1970 Sessions
8. Snow Patrol - Fallen Empires
9. Jellyfish - Spilt Milk
10. M83 - Hurry Up We're Dreaming
11. My Morning Jacket - Friends Again 7"
12. Florence + The Machine - Ceremonials
13. The Beach Boys - The SMiLE Sessions
14. Real Estate - Days
15. Coldplay - Mylo Xyloto
16. Ryan Adams - Ashes & Fire
17. Red Hot Chili Peppers - Blood Sugar Sex Magic
18. The Civil Wars - Tracks In The Snow 10"
19. Diarrhea Planet - Loose Jewels
20. Harold Grosskopf - Synthesist
21. Radiohead - Kid A 2x10"
22. Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago
23. Washed Out - Within & Without
24. Pink Floyd - Wish You Were Here
25. Kaleidoscope - Tangerine Dream

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got a laugh after reading some of the covers, for shits and giggles, check it out

Album covers are a lost art form. These days we actually buy music based on what it sounds like, but if you listen to the guy who works in your local record store, that's a tragedy. We asked you to show us what it might have looked like if the covers of albums had actually been honest about their contents.

Read more If Album Covers Were Honest

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and in music history for january 18th:

In 1944, the first jazz concert was held at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City. The performers were Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton, Artie Shaw, Roy Eldridge and Jack Teagarden.

In 1960, Johnny Preston's Indian love song "Running Bear" reached number one and became the first song to do so after it had fallen off the Billboard chart completely. Penned by J.P. Richardson (The Big Bopper), the tune originally entered the chart in October 1959, then quickly vanished, but re-entered in November and slowly climbed to the top. It was also #1 in the UK.

In 1964, the Beatles had their first appearance on the US singles chart with "I Want to Hold Your Hand". The disc entered the Billboard Hot 100 at #45, just ten days after its release, making it the fastest-breaking and the fastest selling single in Capitol Records history. Capitol had earlier turned down "Love Me Do", "Please Please Me", "From Me to You" and "She Loves You", which were then released by Vee Jay Records. After a nasty lawsuit, Capitol Records was granted an injunction, restraining Vee Jay Records from further manufacturing, distributing, advertising or otherwise disposing of recordings by the Beatles. If you have any old Beatles records on Vee Jay, hang on to them, they are now collector's items.

In 1965, at the RCA studios in Los Angeles, Mick Jagger sang and played tambourine, Keith Richards played acoustic guitar, with Phil Spector on bass guitar and Jack Nitzsche on harpsicord, as they recorded the Rolling Stones track "Play With Fire."



In 1967, Jimi Hendrix recorded an appearance on U.K. TV show, Top of the Pops, and also played a show at the Seven and a Half Club in Mayfair, London.

In 1969, Pete Best won his $8 million defamation suit against his former group, the Beatles, but settled for a considerably lesser amount in the judgment.

In 1971, in a move to help promote Canadian musicians in their own country, Canada passes a law known as CanCon, that requires that from 6 am to 12 am, 30% of all music aired on the radio must be by a Canadian artist. They count as Canadian if two of the following four characteristics are met: *Music composed entirely by a Canadian, *Artist is Canadian, *Produced in Canada, *Lyrics written entirely by a Canadian.

In 1973, at the Los Angeles Forum, a Rolling Stones benefit concert raised $200,000 for Nicaraguan earthquake relief. Mick Jagger donated an additional $150,000.

In 1973, at EMI's Abbey Road Studios in London, Pink Floyd completed their recording of the album "Dark Side Of The Moon."

In 1974, former members from Free (Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke), Mott The Hoople (Mick Ralphs) and King Crimson (Boz Burrell) formed Bad Company. The band went on to score a U.S. #1 album with their debut release.

In 1981, in Milwaukee, Wendy O. Williams of the Plasmatics was arrested on stage and charged with simulating a sex act with a sledgehammer and resisting arrest. A jury found Williams not guilty of assaulting a police officer and the other charges were dropped. Williams later filed a multimillion-dollar civil suit against the Milwaukee Police, charging that they sexually assaulted and beat her during the arrest. A jury rejected her claims.

In 1975, Barry Manilow launched his career with the number one smash "Mandy". Originally called "Brandy" when it was recorded in 1972 by Scott English, Manilow changed the title to avoid confusion with the hit of the same name by a group called Looking Glass. It was long rumored that Scott English wrote the song about his dog, but this urban legend had been debunked by English himself who explained that a reporter called him early one morning asking who "Brandy" was, and an irritated English made up the "dog" story to get the reporter off his back.

In 1978, Johnny Paycheck's cover of David Allan Coe's ode to workplace frustrations, "Take This Job and Shove It", reached the top spot on the Billboard Country chart. Although the song failed to crack the Pop chart Top 40, it still seems to be one that we all know and can relate to.

In 1985, Cleveland, Ohio was chosen to be the site of the permanent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

In 1986, Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Elton John and Gladys Knight saw their recording of "That's What Friends Are For" hit number 1 in the US. The song was originally on the soundtrack to the movie, Night Shift, as performed by Rod Stewart. Warwick suggested doing it as a duet with Stevie Wonder and then Gladys Knight was added to the mix. To finish off the song, Elton John was asked to sing the final chorus. It became the biggest selling song of the year and all proceeds raised were donated to AIDS research.

In 1989, the Rolling Stones, Stevie Wonder, the Temptations, Otis Redding and Dion were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Wonder was the youngest person ever inducted.

In 1991, during AC/DC’s North American tour, three fans were killed during a crush in a crowd at a gig in Salt Lake City, Utah.

In 1996, Lisa Marie Presley files for divorce from Michael Jackson, citing irreconcilable differences. The marriage had lasted 19 months.

In 1997, songwriter and producer Keith Diamond died of a heart attack. He wrote “Caribbean Queen” and “Suddenly” for Billy Ocean, as well as hits for Donna Summer, James Ingram, Mick Jagger, Sheena Easton and Michael Bolton.

In 2003, HBO aired a live Rolling Stones concert from New York City's Madison Square Garden

In 2000, Spencer Goodman was executed by lethal injection in Huntsville, Texas. Goodman was convicted of kidnapping and murdering the wife of ZZ Top manager Bill Ham in 1991. Ham was present for the execution.

In 2007, rocker Ted Nugent caused a stir at the inaugural ball of Texas Governor Rick Perry when he appeared on stage wearing a T-shirt adorned with the Confederate flag, then started an angry monologue about people who don't speak English. The 58-year-old Nugent also carried a fake machine gun on stage with him.

In 2011, at a new museum in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the largest collection of Beatles memorabilia – more than 8,500 objects – went on display. Items included a box of condoms bearing the names of John Lennon and Yoko Ono, a brick from the Cavern Club, a hunk of the stage from the Star Club in Hamburg, certified copies of the band members' birth certificates, and 64 boxes of chewing gum in the form of Beatles records.

birthdays today include (among others): Bobby Goldsboro (71), Legs Larry Smith (Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band) (68), Jonathan Davis (Korn) (41), Luther Dickinson (Black Crowes) (39)

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Vinyl Record News & Music Notes

Judas Priest's Career Showcased With 17-CD Complete Albums Collection Box Set

NEW YORK, Jan. 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Few heavy metal artists have built as stellar a discography as Judas Priest. Now fans will have the chance to purchase a box set which includes all 17 studio and live albums Priest recorded with the classic line-up of Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, K.K. Downing and Ian Hill. Judas Priest's 'The Complete Albums Collection' will be available exclusively through Popmarket.com starting January 24, 2012. The box set is released by Columbia/Epic/Legacy, divisions of Sony Music Entertainment.

Included will be brand-new remasters of Priest's first two albums, 1974's 'Rocka Rolla' and 1976's 'Sad Wings of Destiny' (which have never been released before as authorized remasters by the band). The 2009 live compilation, 'A Touch of Evil... Live,' features in the box set but it is the only compilation that appears in 'The Complete Albums Collection.'

Each of the 17 individual albums will be packaged in replica mini-LP sleeves that reproduce their original cover art. The set is completed by a new 40-page booklet with photos, album credits, and liner notes by rock journalist/Priest fan Greg Prato.

ALBUMS INCLUDED IN 'THE COMPLETE ALBUMS COLLECTION':

1. Rocka Rolla (1974)
2. Sad Wings of Destiny (1976)
3. Sin After Sin (1977)
4. Stained Class (1978)
5. Killing Machine (1978)
6. Unleashed in the East (1979)
7. British Steel (1980)
8. Point of Entry (1981)
9. Screaming for Vengeance (1982)
10. Defenders of the Faith (1984)
11. Turbo (1986)
12. Priest...Live! (1987)
13. Ram It Down (1988)
14. Painkiller (1990)
15. Angel of Retribution (2005)
16. Nostradamus (2008)
17. A Touch of Evil...Live (2009)

SOURCE Legacy Recordings

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25th Anniversary of Paul Simon's Graceland Celebrated With New Documentary Film & Commemorative Editions of Classic Album

"Paul Simon: Under African Skies," A New Documentary About Graceland From Two-Time Emmy and Peabody Award Winning Filmmaker Joe Berlinger, Premiering at Sundance Film Festival 2012

New Editions of Paul Simon Landmark Album - Including A Special Anniversary Box Set Featuring Original Album, Bonus Tracks & Director's Cut of Graceland Documentary - Coming Spring 2012

NEW YORK, January 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- On January 22, 2012, "Under African Skies," the new Joe Berlinger-directed documentary chronicling the creation and lasting influence of Paul Simon's groundbreaking Graceland, will debut at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival, kicking off a year's long celebration commemorating the 25th anniversary of Simon's musical and cultural achievement.

Following its Sundance premiere, "Under African Skies," one of the year's most eagerly anticipated documentaries, is slated for international film festival screenings and a limited theatrical run as well as airings on A&E.

The story of the making of Graceland, and the controversy created when Simon went to South Africa to record with local artists, is told in "Under African Skies," the new full-length documentary from two-time Emmy and Peabody Award winning filmmaker Joe Berlinger ("Brother's Keeper," "Metallica: Some Kind of Monster," the West Memphis Three/"Paradise Lost" trilogy) and producers@radical.media and A&E IndieFilms.

Coming this spring, Legacy Recordings will release a Graceland 25th anniversary commemorative edition deluxe collector's box set as well as a special two-disc set, each featuring the original album with bonus tracks and the director's cut of "Under African Skies."

"Under African Skies" travels with Paul Simon back to South Africa 25 years after his first visit. Simon revisits the making of the record, surveying from the vantage of history the turbulence and controversy surrounding the album's genesis. His artistic decision to collaborate with African musicians created a new world musical fusion, combining American and African musical idioms while igniting an intense political crossfire, with Paul Simon accused of breaking the UN cultural boycott of South Africa designed to end the Apartheid regime.

The universal appeal of the music of Graceland proved more powerful and enduring than the political hotbed attending its creation. In 1986, the album sold 14 million copies worldwide, and received universal praise from critics around the globe. Simon and the members of Ladysmith Black Mambazo performed on Saturday Night Live and appeared on the cover of Rolling Stone.

By January of 1987, "You Can Call Me Al" was everywhere and Graceland won Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards in 1987. Then, in an unprecedented carryover, the album garnered the Grammy for Song of the Year with its title track in 1988. The album generated three hit singles and kept Paul Simon and the Graceland tour on the road for five years.

In the film, Simon provides a fresh and revelatory perspective on the album while gathering the record's original musicians for a transcendental Graceland concert reunion. "Under African Skies" features interviews with key anti-apartheid activists of the time and such musical legends as Quincy Jones, Harry Belafonte, Paul McCartney, David Byrne and Peter Gabriel.

Graceland continues to provide rewards to its listeners and remains a pivotal listening experience for writers, artists and fans. "Paul Simon's Graceland played a greatly significant role in removing the standoffish dread Western culture harbored toward South Africa during its internal struggle against apartheid, humanizing both a country's soul-searching hunger for liberation and its simultaneous outpouring of cathartic creative expression." – Timothy White, Billboard

"Prior to Graceland, the music of South Africa was largely unknown outside the country, except to a small minority of world music fans..." – Peter Gabriel

"I don't like the idea that people who aren't adolescents make records. Adolescents make the best records. Except for Paul Simon. Except for Graceland. He's hit a new plateau there, but he's writing to his own age group. Graceland is something new." - Joe Strummer interviewed by Richard Cromelin for the Los Angeles Times on January 31, 1988

"In many ways, Graceland was the most extraordinary experience in my entire career.... The insight into rhythm was the great gift that I received from making the trip to South Africa, and collaborating with African musicians." -- Paul Simon

www.graceland25.com

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Universal Music Enterprises New Iron Maiden Release EN VIVO!

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Universal Music Enterprises (UMe) is proud to announce the release of "EN VIVO!," a new live IRON MAIDEN Blu-ray™, 2-DVDSet and double soundtrack album, on Tuesday, March 27, in the U.S. (available internationally, Monday, March 26).

"EN VIVO!" was filmed on April 10, 2011, in front of over 50,000 ecstatic fans at the Estadio Nacional, Santiago, during the Round The World In 66 Days leg of The Final Frontier World Tour, and captures a magnificent performance by the band, ardently embraced by the legendary Latino passion and energy of their Chilean fans. With spectacular stage backdrops, dynamic musicianship and a literally jaw-dropping appearance by Eddie, this live show encapsulates to perfection the heart and soul of Iron Maiden 2011.

Bass player and founding member Steve Harris comments, "For The Final Frontier Tour, it was really important to me that we filmed in South America as we're always so overwhelmed by the fans' reaction when we go to that part of the world and I wanted to reflect that in the filming. After much consideration, we chose the Santiago show as we felt it was one of our best performances of the entire tour and to play at the prestigious Estadio Nacional was a landmark moment for us. For reasons known to our fans, it took a long time before we got to play our first show in Chile, and once we did get to play a show, the response was so phenomenal we just had to keep coming back, and it's got better and better each time!

"This show also features the gigantic new Eddie. He wasn't due to make his appearance until our European leg of the tour later in 2011, but we managed to transport him across the sea in a special huge container just in time for the latter end of the South American dates, so it was great we were able to immortalize him for the DVD as he really has to be seen to be believed!"

The concert was filmed digitally using 22 HD cameras and an octocam (a flying camera which captures aerial crowd scenes), recorded in both stereo and 5.1 audio and mixed by Maiden's longstanding producer, Kevin "Caveman" Shirley, all of which serves to accentuate the incredible atmosphere of this compelling performance. Extensive use is made of split screens so fans can follow the individual members more closely, and the set list moves seamlessly between songs from Maiden's most recent studio album, 2010's The Final Frontier, through to classic fan favorites via the band's vast and varied catalogue (full set listing below).

Disc two of the DVD set is a bonus disc containing an 88-minute documentary, Behind The Beast. This is also an entirely in-house production by Maiden's own Krew, led by Andy Matthews, and is intended as an interesting and revealing high quality "home movie" for their fans to see how Iron Maiden put on a tour and what goes on behind the scenes at a show. It describes the extraordinary story of one of the most acclaimed and ambitious touring shows in the world. It illustrates the day-to-day life and complex tasks of the Maiden Killer Krew and the other characters behind the scenes. The expertise and experience, the problem-solving and successes, the sheer scale and immense difficulties of the undertaking come to life through the day-to-day coverage of the tour and the background work of the crews in sound, lighting, carpentry, production and set design. As well as interviews with the Iron Maiden crew, it interweaves anecdotes from the band and their fans, and includes footage of the live show in this comprehensive guide to the intricacies of staging massive, live stadium shows around the world out of the belly of a Boeing 757. The bonus disc also contains an extended version of the promo video "Satellite 15…The Final Frontier," a video about the making of "Satellite 15…The Final Frontier" plus the opening video sequence to The Final Frontier World Tour.

In addition to the Blu-ray™, the 2-DVD set will initially be available as a Limited Edition double DVD in a Collectors' Steel Book Case and Double Vinyl Picture Disc. As well as a traditional 2-CD soundtrack album, EN VIVO! will also be available as a digital download audio album and digital download video.

Maiden's "Final Frontier World Tour 2010-11" saw the band circumnavigating the planet for the third time in their customized Boeing 757, Ed Force One, piloted by lead singer Bruce Dickinson, and playing 98 shows in 36 countries to over 2 million fans.

TRACK LISTINGS

DVD DISC ONE "LIVE AT ESTADIO NACIONAL, SANTIAGO" (approx running time 120 min.)
1. Satellite 15
2. The Final Frontier
3. El Dorado
4. 2 Minutes To Midnight
5. The Talisman
6. Coming Home
7. Dance Of Death
8. The Trooper
9. The Wicker Man
10. Blood Brothers
11. When The Wild Wind Blows
12. The Evil That Men Do
13. Fear Of The Dark
14. Iron Maiden
15. The Number Of The Beast
16. Hallowed Be Thy Name
17. Running Free

BONUS DISC - DVD DISC TWO "BEHIND THE BEAST" (approx running time 102 min.)
1. Behind The Beast documentary
2. Satellite 15…The Final Frontier promo video (director's cut)
3. The Making of Satellite 15…The Final Frontier promo
4. The Final Frontier World Tour Show Intro

www.ironmaiden.com

SOURCE Universal Music Enterprises

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KILL DEVIL HILL: Debut Album Details Revealed

KILL DEVIL HILL — the band featuring Vinny Appice (HEAVEN & HELL, BLACK SABBATH, DIO) on drums, Rex Brown (DOWN, PANTERA) on bass, Mark Zavon (RATT, W.A.S.P., 40 CYCLE HUM) on guitar and Jason "Dewey" Bragg (PISSING RAZORS) on vocals — will release its self-titled debut album on March 27 in North America via SPV/Steamhammer. The CD was produced by Warren Riker, who is best known for his work with DOWN, CORROSION OF CONFORMITY, SUBLIME and CATHEDRAL. The effort will be available in a standard CD edition, as an iTunes digital download, and double gatefold LP.

Read the rest at Blabbermouth






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Jimmy Castor (1947-2012)

Funk great Jimmy Castor, the man who made the Troglodyte and Bertha Butt famous, passed away on Monday at the age of 64. At this time, there is no cause of death.

According to VVN Music affiliate Noise11, "Castor’s grandson P.J. Romain said on Twitter that his “grandfather is unresponsive at the hospital,” before breaking the news eight hours later in a tweet that said: “My grandfather Jimmy Castor died today at 2:30 on MLK day."

Read more at our friends at vintagevinylnews.com










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this from our friends at vinylcollective.com

Top 10 Albums – January 16, 2012

Here are the Top 10 Albums sold at Shop Radio Cast for the week of January 16, 2012:

1. Saves The Day – Daybreak LP (White)
2. The Horrible Crowes – Ladykiller 7?
3. The Black Keys – The Moan / Have Love Will Travel 7?
4. The Horrible Crowes – Elsie LP
5. Bayside – Acoustic LP
6. Brand New – Your Favorite Weapon LP
7. Between The Buried and Me – Between The Buried and Me LP
8. Balance And Composure/Tigers Jaw – Split LP
9. The Methadones – Not Economically Viable LP
10. Banquets / Mayflower – Split 7?

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Top 5 eBay Vinyl Record - Sales Week Ending 01/14/2012

Two Northern Soul 45s made the list this week. And punk is making the list more and more. The "Chain Of Strength" 45 is from 1990 which makes it pretty late for a high dollar punk record.






1. LP - Hank Mobley self titled Blue Note 1568 - $4,600.00

2. 45 - Jimmy Burns "I Really Love You" / "I Love You Girl" Erica - $3,107.57

3. 45 - Soul Powers "Soul Power Pt 1" / "Soul Power Pt 2" Scream - $2,649.00

4. 45 - Chain Of Strength "What Holds Us Apart" Test Pressing - $2,130.00

5. EP - Mayhem "Deathcrush" Posercorpse 001 880/1000 - $1,987.00



The eBay Top Five is brought to us by Norm & Jane at Vinyl Record Talk. Listen to their weekly show Vinyl Record Talk at Radio Dentata









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Record Store Day I STILL BUY RECORDS T-shirt

A great way to proudly state your buying habits and favorite format! Record Store Day logo on the back. Includes access to a special Record Store Day sampler with over 50 tracks from Redeye!

Buy it at Record Store Day















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and in music history for january 17th:

In 1960, nearly 20 million people watch Cliff Richard and the Shadows perform on Sunday Night At The London Palladium, where the singer is presented a Gold record for his hit, "Living Doll."

In 1963, Keith Richards, Mick Jagger, Brian Jones, Bill Wyman, Charlie Watts and Ian Stewart perform together for the first time at London's Marquee Jazz Club.

In 1964, the Rolling Stones released their first EP, which included, ‘You Better Move On’, ‘Poison Ivy’, ‘Bye Bye Johnny’ and ‘Money’. It peaked at No.15 on the UK chart.

In 1966, NBC-TV in the US bought the Monkees series, placing it on their 1966 autumn schedule.

In 1967, 40-year-old David Mason recorded the piccolo trumpet solo for The Beatle's "Penny Lane" at Abbey Road Studios in London. He was paid 27 pounds, 10 shillings ($42) for his performance. In August, 1987, the trumpet he used was sold at a Sotheby's auction for $10,846.

In 1967, the Daily Mail ran the story about a local council survey finding 4,000 holes in the road in Lancashire inspiring John Lennon's contribution to the Beatles song "A Day In The Life."

Also in 1967, the Jimi Hendrix Experience recorded a session for Radio Luxembourg's Ready Steady Radio. The band ran up a bar bill of $6.21, which they were unable to pay.

In 1969, the Beatles released the "Yellow Submarine" album.  Only one side of the album contains songs performed by the Beatles; of the six, four were previously unissued. "Yellow Submarine" had been simultaneously issued in 1966 as a single and on the album 'Revolver,' and "All You Need Is Love" had been issued as a single in 1967. The second side features the symphonic film score composed by George Martin, in versions recorded specifically for the album.

"All You Need Is Love" appeared in either mono or rechanneled stereo, ('fake stereo') on the US LP Magical Mystery Tour. It debuted in a true stereo mix on LP for this album. American cassette and 8-track tape versions featured "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" as an extra song on side two.

In 1969, "Lady Samantha" was released in England. It was one of the very first recordings by Reginald Kenneth Dwight, better known as Elton John.

In 1970, the Doors played the first of several shows at the Felt Forum in New York City. The shows were recorded for use on their 'Absolutely Live' album.

In 1970, Billy Stewart and three of his band members were killed when their car went out of control and off a bridge over the River Neuse in North Carolina.

In 1972, a section of Bellevue Boulevard in Memphis was renamed Elvis Presley Boulevard. The remaining length of road kept its original name after protests from the Bellevue Baptist Church. In 1976, Elvis released an album called "From Elvis Presley Boulevard, Memphis, Tennessee", which was recorded at his home studio at Graceland.

In 1974, Dino Martin, singer and son of Dean Martin, was arrested on suspicion of possession and sale of two machine guns. He was arraigned and released the next day on $5,000 bail.

In 1976, Barry Manilow had the number one record in the US with "I Write The Songs." Although he wrote many of his hits, he didn't write this one, Bruce Johnson of The Beach Boys did and Manilow has always been quick to point out that fact.

Also in 1976, Earth Wind and Fire started a three-week run at #1 on the US album chart with 'Gratitude.'

In 1981, Mötley Crüe formed when bass guitarist Nikki Sixx left the band London and began rehearsing with drummer Tommy Lee and vocalist, guitarist Greg Leon, (who later left). Sixx and Lee then added guitarist Bob "Mick Mars" Deal. Vince Neil accepted an offer to join (after turning them down) in April of this year.

In 1982, Tommy Tucker died, aged 48, after being overcome by poisonous fumes while he was renovating the floors of his New York home. He had written the 1964 US No.11 hit "Hi Heel Sneakers."

In 1983, the rise in popularity of Country music was evident at The American Music Awards, where Kenny Rogers took home three citations, Willie Nelson was given two and Alabama was named Favorite Band.

In 1990, Hank Ballard, The Four Seasons, The Four Tops, The Kinks, Simon and Garfunkel, The Platters and The Who are inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

In 1992, "Michael Jackson…the Legend Continues" aired on CBS-TV.

In 1994, Donny Osmond fought the Partridge Family's Danny Bonaduce in a charity boxing match in Chicago, IL. Bonaduce won a split decision.

In 1996, David Bowie, Tom Donahue, The Jefferson Airplane, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Little Willie John, Pink Floyd, Pete Seeger, The Shirelles and The Velvet Underground are inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

In 1998, Savage Garden started a two week run at #1 on the US singles chart with 'Truly Madly Deeply'.

In 2003, Charlie Webber of The Swingin' Medallions, died of cancer at the age of 57. The group is best known for their 1966 hit, "Double Shot Of My Baby's Love".

Also in 2003, a long-lost recording featuring John Lennon and Mick Jagger was set to spark a biding war at a London auction. The acetate record was recorded in 1974 with Jagger singing the blues song 'Too Many Cooks' and Lennon playing guitar. The track had never been release because the two artists were both signed to different record companies.

In 2011, Don Kirshner, the songwriter, manager, publisher and music executive who helped launch the careers of Neil Diamond, Bobby Darin, Carole King, Neil Sedaka, The Monkees, The Archies and Kansas, died of heart failure at the age of 76.

The Police - Roxanne (live at Don Kirschner's Rock concert)





birthdays today inlcude (among others): Chris Montez (69), William Hart (Delfonics) (67), Mick Taylor (Rolling Stones) (63), Steve Earle (57), Paul Young (56), Susanna Hoffs (Bangles) (53), John Crawford (Berlin) (52), Andy Rourke (Smiths) (48), Ricky Wilson (Kaiser Chiefs) (34) and Kid Rock (born Robert Ritchie) (41)


Monday, January 16, 2012

New Vinyl Record and Music Releases ~ January 17, 2012






A Night at the Chalet - Filth
Aidan Baker - Spectrum of Distraction
Alcest - Les Voyages De L'Ame
Alex Amsterdam - Love Is Fiction (vinyl)
Alog - Unemployed (4 LPs) (vinyl)
Andrew Bird - Norman (soundtrack) (vinyl)
Ani DiFranco - Which Side Are You On?
Anthony Green (of Circa Survive) - Beautiful Things
Arc Angel - Arc Angel
Attack Attack! - This Means War
Blues Creation - Demon & Eleven Children (vinyl)
Bombay Bicycle Club - A Different Kind of Fix
Busdriver - Beaus$Eros
Byetone - Symeta (vinyl)
Cat Le Bon - CYRK
Ceremony - Hysteria (7") (vinyl)

Coldplay - Mylo Xyloto (CD/LP box set) (vinyl)

Cut Hands - Afro Noise 1 (vinyl)
Cut Hands - Afro Noise 2 (vinyl)
Daniel Menche - Guts (2 LPs) (vinyl)
Dare Dukes - Thugs and China Dolls
Deerhoof and David Bazan - Deerbazan
Diagrams - Black Light
Enter Shikari - A Flash Flood Of Colour
Ernest Gonzales - Natural Traits
Everything Went Black - Cycles of Light
Expensive Looks - Dark Matters
Famous Last Words - Pick You Poison
Florence and the Machine - No Light, No Light
Foe - Bad Dream Hotline
Frank Sinatra - The Concert Sinatra
Frank Turner - The Second Three Years
Frankie Rose - Know Me (7") (vinyl)
Gregg Rolie - Gringo
Grimes - Visions
Guided By Voices - Let's Go Eat The Factory
Guided By Voices - Chocolate Boy (vinyl)
Hate Squad - Katharsis
Hawkinson - Klaf
Heaven 17 - Play to Win: The Best of Heaven 17
Herman Dune - Tell Me Something I Don’t Know
Horrid Rane - Celestial Joy
Howler - America Give Up
Icon - Heat Of The Rising Sun (2 CD)
Jack DeJohnette - Sound Travels
Jamuel Saxon - Pre-Madona
Jana Winderen - Débris (vinyl)
Janis Joplin - Janis Joplin - Classic LP Collection (4-LP box set) (vinyl)
Jessie Baylin - Little Spark
Kathleen Edwards - Voyageur
Kidz Bop Kids - Kidz Bop 21
King Krule - King Krule
Kings of Leon - The Early Vinyl (7-LP box set) (vinyl)
Loincloth - Iron Balls of Steel
Loma Prieta - I.V.
Lost Sounds - Lost Sounds (7") (vinyl)
Mark Van Hoen - The Revenant Diary (2 LPs) (vinyl)
Martina McBride - Hits and More
Matthew Dear - Headcage (EP)
Michael W. Smith - Decades of Worship
Mikal Cronin - Tide (7") (vinyl)
Modern English - After the Snow (reissue)
Modern English - Mesh and Lace (reissue)
Modern English - Ricochet Days (reissue)
Monkees - Head: Limited Collector's Edition (3 CDs)
Nails / Skin Like Iron - split (7") (vinyl)
No UFO's - Soft Coast (vinyl)
Old Monk - Birds of Belize
Oliver - Dirty Talk (EP)
One Sonic Society - Forever Reign
Paul Brill - Breezy
Peaches - The Teaches of Peaches (reissue) (vinyl)
Philip Glass Ensemble - Einstein on the Beach (4-CD box set)
Punks on Mars - Hey Tiffany (7") (vinyl)
Rags & Ribbons - The Glass Masses
Raw Material - Raw Material (vinyl)
Red, White and Blues - Shine
Refugees (Cindy Bullens, Deborah Holland, Wendy Waldman) - Three
Secrets - The Ascent
Seeker Lover Keeper - Seeker Lover Keeper
Shawn Lee - Tabla Rock (vinyl)
Siopis - Ausländer
So is the Tongue - A Child of Divorce
Starf**ker - Jupiter (vinyl)
Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks and L.A. Guns - Wheels of Fire/Gorgeous George (7") (vinyl)
Steve Aoki - Wonderland
Stooges - Complete Funhouse Sessions (7-CD box set)
Strange Vacation - Chasm
The Big Pink - Future This
The Devil's Blood - The Thousandfold Epicentre
The Duke Spirit - Bruiser
The Internet - Purple Naked Ladies
The Life and Times - No One Loves You Like I Do
The Nightwatchman - Fabled City (reissue)
The Nightwatchman - One Man Revolution (reissue)
The Red Inspectors - Are We The Red Inspectors? Are We?
The Sound - From the Lions Mouth (remastered)
The Sound - Jeopardy (remastered)
Todd Terje - Arps (EP)
Tower City - The Ones That Better
Trailer Trash Tracys - Ester
Tribes - Baby
Uriah Heep - Logical Revelations
Various Artists - Electronic 11
Various Artists - Music From & Inspired By Pan Am
Various Artists - Qat Coffee & Qambus: Raw 45s From Yemen
Walter Rose - Cast Your Stone



Vinyl Record News & Music Notes

this from NME in the UK:

HMV reveals plans to increase instore stock of vinyl in 2012

High street chain says customer demand has caused them to up their vinyl stocks

A spokesman for HMV has said that the high street chain is planning to step up the amount of vinyl it stocks in response to demand from customers.

The chain saw 'disappointing' sales over Christmas, but its official spokesman told NME that they're still hopeful for the future and are planning to bulk up what they offer in vinyl stock. They also said that the stores will never turn their back on stocking physical music.

Asked about what changes HMV would be bringing in 2012, the chain's official spokesman told NME: "A lot of customers have been asking us to increase the amount of racking we dedicate to music instore and we're pleased to say we'll be doing a lot more of that soon - in fact we're also planning to significantly increase our range of vinyl in quite a few locations as well."

Read the rest at NME

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great story about a love of music and vinyl! the article comes to us from Illinois

Highland hobbyist collects 45, 78 rpms through '70s

By JILL MOON

HIGHLAND — The ultimate vinyl collection includes Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Gene Autry, Ricky Nelson and Stan Musial — just ask Jim Ronat.

Ronat, 65, began in the music business as a performer with The Teen Beats, a four-piece band with a radio show on WIN-U AM 1510 out of Highland from 1963 to 1964, when Ronat graduated from Highland High School. As a disc jockey, Ronat did local high school news, dedications and requests. After graduation, Ronat joined the service for three years, before working for 40 years in the mail room and distribution for The St. Louis Post-Dispatch and The Wall Street Journal, which has a Highland plant. He retired in 2009 from the company that also printed Rolling Stone and The Sporting News.

“The band is how I got interested in records,” said the expert vinyl disc collector of mainly 45-rpm singles that made the Billboard 100 charts through the 1970s or came with a picture sleeve, just as collectible as the records. “That is the core of my collection, and that grew out to everything else.”

Read more at thetelegraph.com

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album cover art of the day:

SLEEPY HOLLOW: 'Skull 13' Release Date, Track Listing Revealed

Reunited heavy metal band SLEEPY HOLLOW will release its new album, "Skull 13", on March 23 via Pure Steel Records and High Roller Records. The effort will be released on vinyl (limited 500 copies) through High Roller and on CD/DDL through Pure Steel.

Read the rest at our friends at Blabbermouth














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CANNIBAL CORPSE: 'Torture' Cover Artwork, Track Listing Revealed; New Song Streaming

Florida-based death metal veterans CANNIBAL CORPSE will release their twelfth studio album, "Torture", on March 13 via Metal Blade Records. The follow-up to 2009's "Evisceration Plague" offers up 12 tracks of maniacally precise, soul-searing death metal. "Torture" was again produced by HATE ETERNAL's Erik Rutan at his own Mana Recording Studio in St. Petersburg, Florida as well as Sonic Ranch in Tornillo, Texas, and features the maniacal cover art by longtime CANNIBAL CORPSE artist Vincent Locke.

Read the rest at our friends at Blabbermouth













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this from our friends at vinylcollective.com

Must Have on Vinyl: Civil Wars – Barton Hollow LP

We have had at time at Shop Radio Cast keeping Civil Wars, “Barton Hollow” vinyl LP in stock, but it is available once again! This is the debut album from the duet which was released in late 2011. The album scanned over 250,000 in the first week!

The Civil Wars consists of John Paul White, hailing from Florence, AL and Joy Williams, originally from Santa Cruz, CA, but now residing in East Nashville. The duo's chance meeting a year and a half ago fueled an immediate songwriting chemistry and creative synergy. Their second show ever, performed at a sold out Eddie's Attic, was recorded and released as a free digital album. Of the duo, Reg's Coffee House host, Scott Register, praises: 'In my 13 years on the radio, few of the artists I've championed had as immediate a reaction as The Civil Wars. When I first spun `Poison & Wine' listeners couldn't get enough of it and wanted to own it immediately. This band has the `it' factor that you look for. Don't miss out.'



Track Listing
20 Years
I ve Got This Friend
C est La Mort
To Whom It May Concern
Poison & Wine
My Father s Father
Barton Hollow
The Violet Hour
Girl With the Red Balloon
Falling
Forget Me Not

Buy it at ShopRadioCast

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English Dogs Tour: The Punk Pioneers Returning to the States

Legendary punk rockers English Dogs have reformed and will be launching their first North American tour since 1985. The trek kicks off Feb. 10 in Baltimore and crisscrosses the country winding up on in Santa Clara, Calif. on Feb. 23. Support on the tour comes from The Casualties, Toxic Holocaust and Havok.

Founding member and drummer Pinch cannot wait to return to North America:

Read what he has to say and more at noisecreep

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in music history for today january 16th:

In 1957, in New Orleans, Little Richard recorded "Lucille."

Released on Specialty Records in February 1957, Little Richard's single made number 21 on the US pop chart, and number 10 on the UK chart. It was composed by Albert Collins and Little RichardAs a rock standard, it has been covered live and/or recorded by thousands of artists including AC/DC, Status Quo, Wings, The Beatles, Mud, The Hollies, The Animals, Paul McCartney, Van Halen, Johnny Winter, The Flying Burrito Brothers, Peter & Gordon, Queen, Deep Purple, the Ian Gillan Band, The Everly Brothers, Waylon Jennings, Kenny Rogers, Bill Haley & His Comets, Otis Redding, The Sonics, John Entwistle of The Who, and the Detroit band The Rockets. It was also covered by Status Quo as part of their Anniversary Waltz, Pt. 1. John Lennon and Paul McCartney sang the song together during a jam session in 1974, which can be heard on the bootleg A Toot & A Snore in '74, marking the only known occasion where the former songwriting team performed together after the bitter break up of the Beatles.



Also in 1957, the Cavern Club opened its doors as a Jazz club in Liverpool, England. The Quarry Men first played there seven months later and four years after, they would return as The Beatles. Paul McCartney visited the re-built club near the end of 1999 for a short set of old Rock and Roll tunes.

In 1964, the Beatles played two shows at the Olympia Theatre, Paris, France, the first of an 18-night engagement. This first show was attended mostly by Paris’ “top society” members (all dressed in formal evening attire). The French press had little good to say about The Beatles in the next day’s papers, but The Beatles didn’t care, because they’d just received news that their single “I Want to Hold Your Hand” had hit #1 in the U.S., selling 10,000 copies an hour in New York City alone.

In 1965, Chad Allen and The Expressions release their first album under their new name, Guess Who. A single issued from the LP was a cover version of Johnny Kidd's "Shakin' All Over" that helped launch the career of one of Canada's most successful Rock bands.

In 1969, in London at Twickenham Film Studios, the Beatles finished rehearsals for their "Get Back" project, later retitled "Let It Be."

In 1969, in San Francisco, Fleetwood Mac, Creedence Clearwater Revival and Albert Collins performed at the Fillmore West.

In 1972, David Seville, (real name: Ross Bagdasarian) who provided the voices of TV cartoon characters the Chipmunks, died just days short of his 53rd birthday. He also recorded the number one hit "Witch Doctor" in 1958.

In 1973, in Philadelphia, pre-fame Bruce Springsteen performed at Villanova University for an audience of 25 people.

In 1975, Paul McCartney and Wings arrived in New Orleans to begin recording sessions at Allen Toussaint's Sea Saint studios for their 'Venus and Mars' album. They stayed through Mardi Gras.

In 1980, Paul McCartney was placed in a Japanese jail for nine days after he was found in the possession of marijuana.

In 1984, Paul and Linda McCartney were arrested for drug possession in the Barbados. they liked their hooch.......

In 1986, ABBA performed together for the last time at a show honoring their manager Stig Anderson on the Swedish TV show This Is Your Life.

In 1987, Jools Holland was suspended by the UK's Channel 4 after saying “groovy fuckers” during a live ad broadcast during children's hours. shouldn't have said groovy......

In 1988, Tina Turner set the record (to that date) for largest audience for a single artist when she played before 182,000 people in Rio De Janeiro.

In 1988, George Harrison tops the Billboard chart with the first single from his "Cloud Nine" album, "Got My Mind Set On You", a song that was originally recorded by James Ray in 1962. In the UK, George's version spent four weeks at number 2.

In 1991, the Byrds, Wilson Pickett, Ike and Tina Turner and the Impressions are inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame.

In 1992, Eric Clapton recorded his unplugged session, that included an acoustic version of "Layla," for MTV.

In 1996, Jamaican authorities open fire on Jimmy Buffett's seaplane, mistaking it for a drug trafficker's plane. U2 singer Bono and Island Records producer Chris Blackwell were with Buffett, but no one was hurt. The incident inspired Buffett to write a song called "Jamaica Mistaica".

Also in 1996, Wayne Newton performed his 25,000th Las Vegas show.

In 1999, the Whiskey-a-Go-Go in Los Angeles began a 35th Anniversary celebration with shows by Robbie Krieger, the Grass Roots, Johnny Rivers, Nancy Sinatra, Jan & Dean, Randy Bachman and Martha Reeves.

In 2000, 71 year old Will "Dub" Jones of The Coasters passed away.

In 2004, Michael Jackson entered a plea of not guilty in a Santa Maria, California, courtroom, to multiple charges of child molestation. Though hundreds of fans enthusiastically greeted Jackson upon his arrival to the courthouse, he was reprimanded by Superior Court Judge Rodney S. Melville for being twenty minutes late. "You have started out on the wrong foot here," Melville told Jackson. "I want to advise you that I will not put up with that. It's an insult to the court."

In 2007, Pookie Hudson, the lead singer and songwriter for the Doo Wop group, the Spaniels, died of complications from cancer of the thymus at the age of 72. Hudson lent his romantic tenor to hits like "Goodnight, Sweetheart, Goodnight" and influenced generations of later artists.

In 2008, an intimate Radiohead show had to be moved to a larger club after authorities intervened. 1,500 showed up for the show that promised tickets to the first 200 fans.

In 2009, the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry reported that ninety-five per cent of music downloaded online was done so illegally in 2008. The IFPI, which represents 1,400 companies in 72 countries, said that there were 1.4 billion tracks legally downloaded last year, but estimated that more than 40 billion music files were illegally shared.

In 2010, singer and Country Music Hall of Famer Carl Smith died at the age of 82.

birthdays today include (among others): Nick Valensi (Strokes) (31), Paul Webb (Talk Talk) (50), Brendan O'Hare (Teenage Fanclub) (42), Sade (born Sade Adu) (53), Jill Sobule (53), Ronnie Milsap (69) and Jim Stafford (68)

Saturday, January 14, 2012

Michael Fremer Album Review

JT
(reissue)

James Taylor

Columbia/Mobile Fidelity MFSL 1-354 180LP/SACD

Produced by: Peter Asher

Engineered by: Val Garay

Mixed by: Val Garay

Mastered by: Krieg Wunderlich, assisted by Rob LoVerde



MUSIC

SOUND


Mobile Fidelity Freshens Up a Classic
by Michael Fremer
December 01, 2011

Cleaned up, hair cut, even shown bowling in the gatefold photo layout, James Taylor, many felt at the time, had clearly sold out to corporate America by signing with Columbia Records. By 1977 his long hair, hippie days were over and so were ours, but many diehards resented the slick shift and were appalled by the whole thing, starting with the cover photo.

But once the stylus dropped in the lead-in groove, it was obvious that the label shift and image change had produced a musically and emotionally re-invigorated James Taylor, one that was able to maintain his former sensibilities while surrounding himself with a less folky, more pop/funky/electrified musical backdrop. You might even say it glows with the bell-toned Fender-Rhodes keyboard sound.

JT went on to become a multi-platinum selling hit and Taylor's biggest since his break-out album Sweet Baby James. True it's a fairly slick-sounding affair despite Taylor's use of many of his long-time cohorts like Danny Kortchmar, Leland Sklar and Russ Kunkel. Taylor's subject matter is sunnier and less self-absorbed. In "Looking For Love" he says he's had enough of self-pity.

He's downright exuberant singing to his girlfriend on the opener, "You're Smiling Face." Between that and "The Secret Of Life," his positive affirmation in which he lets listeners know he's figured it out how to live a satisfied, meaningful life that will allow him to age gracefully.

Obviously, the decades since show that he's lived his own advice. In fact sometimes you just wish he'd take that shit-eating grin off his face and show some emotion!

Side two opens with a reverential, string-drenched take on "Handy Man" that surprised and delighted consumers of the raucous original. There's the backstreet slink of "I Was Only Telling a Lie" that sounds more like something Bowie, Marc Bolan or Humble Pie could have come up with.

The hymnal, Paul Simon-ish "Terra Nova" remains one of Taylor's most beautiful and positive songs with backing by Carly Simon, whose multivoice coda remains memorable . Thankfully "Traffic Jam," an overly cute "gospel/rap" by way of The Coasters with a global warming message well ahead of its time is but a short detour to the love song finale, "If I Keep My Heart," which sounds more like a black r&b ballad than one by a folkie.

Well, a former folkie. This record propelled Taylor far beyond his guitar based folk music and he never looked back. It's success and the new image he'd created for himself removed all boundaries to his stylistic wanderings.

While the production may sound a bit slick, it's such sweet ear candy, you won't care. Val Garay gets the instruments remarkably well separated in space and give you a kick drum and electric bass you can latch onto and ride. All of the instruments receive the same clean, unprocessed treatment and as good as the original Columbia pressing was, Mobile Fidelity does it even better, striking the perfect balance between warmth and clarity. The original's dynamics can't match this edition.

There's plenty worth listening in on within these mixes and the mastering and pressing open a transparent, revealing window onto the action.


Thanks to Michael over at www.musicangle.com  for the exclusive rights to reprint this material. Stop by MusicAngle.com for more reviews and features.

©2011 MusicAngle.com & Michael Fremer - - All rights reserved

Reprinted by Permission

Vinyl Record News & Music Notes

Decemberists To Release Live LP

The Decemberists have recently announced that on March 13 they will release 'We All Raise Our Voices To The Air (Live Songs 04.11-08.11),' which is a 20-track live double-album (and triple-vinyl set) culled from the band's 2011 tour supporting their chart-topping, Grammy-nominated album 'The King Is Dead.'

In concert, the band which includes lead singer, songwriter and guitarist Colin Meloy, keyboardist & accordionist Jenny Conlee, guitarist Chris Funk, bassist Nate Query, and drummer John Moen, with additional member Sara Watkins on fiddle, guitar and vocals deliver an unforgettable live experience full of spontaneity. A band of breathtaking versatility, the Decemberists can reach deep into their rich catalog of songs for gorgeous fok-rock gems (“Rise To Me”), murderously driving rockers (“The Rake’s Song”), expansive suites (“The Crane Wife 1, 2, and 3”), the worst song Meloy ever wrote (“Dracula’s Daughter”), or epic sea shanties that inspire enthusiastic crowd participation (“The Mariner’s Revenge Song”).

The performances on We All Raise Our Voices To The Air are drawn from 12 different shows at venues including the legendary Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Stubb’s BBQ in Austin, Marymoor Amphitheatre in Seattle, and their final two shows at McMenamins Edgefield Amphitheatre in their hometown of Portland, which featured the addition of a horn section that can be heard on several songs.

Disc 1
1. The Infanta (5:15)
2. Calamity Song (3:57)
3. Rise To Me (4:55)
4. The Soldiering Life (3:58)
5. We Both Go Down Together (4:30)
6. The Bagman’s Gambit (8:05)
7. Down By The Water (3:59)
8. Leslie Ann Levine(4:15)
9. The Rake’s Song (3:34)
10. The Crane Wife 1, 2, and 3 (16:20)

Disc 2
1. Oceanside (3:15)
2. Billy Liar (6:33)
3. Grace Cathedral Hill (4:35)
4. All Arise! (4:30)
5. Rox In The Box (3:15)
6. June Hymn (4:20)
7. Dracula’s Daughter > O Valencia! (5:49)
8. This Is Why We Fight (4:35)
9. The Mariner’s Revenge Song (10:20)
10. I Was Meant For The Stage (10:00)

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NIGHTWISH To Release 'The Crow, The Owl And The Dove' Single

"The Crow, The Owl And The Dove", the second single from "Imaginaerum", the new album from Finnish/Swedish symphonic metallers NIGHTWISH, will be released in Europe on March 2 via Nuclear Blast Records. Along with the title track, the single will include a previously unreleased song called "The Heart Asks Pleasure First" (theme from the movie "The Piano"). The cut will be available in two different versions, including an instrumental one.

"The Crow, The Owl And The Dove" is featured in three versions: the radio edit, album version and an instrumental.

You can order the single on CD, or as a vinyl in clear or blue color.

Read more at Blabbermouth


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Tony Iommi Posts Message

Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi posted his first message in response to his recent diagnosis of lymphoma earlier this week. In a post on Facebook, Iommi wrote:

"My fans, friends & colleagues -

"I just want to say how overwhelmed I am with all your messages of support, thank you so much.

"Well it's not what I wanted for Christmas, that's for sure, but now I can't wait for the test results to come in and get going with the treatment.

"It's really good that the guys are coming over so that we can continue working on the album as things are going great in the studio.

"Well, not much else to say at this time, so thanks again.

"Bless you all,

Tony"

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this out of the lovely state of arizona.....vinyl nerds unite!

Not So Secretly, Eastside Records Comes Back from the Dead

By Amanda Ventura • College Times

There's a rich, nerdy culture that keeps record stores in business. So for audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts, seeing a beloved record store close its doors is tough. They hardly ever re-open in the same place twice and generally the new locations never seem as convenient as before. Remember when Hoodlums went "on hiatus" after the Great Memorial Union Fire of 2007? The store's relocation on McClintock Drive – so far away from the college crowd – was such bittersweet news. Thankfully, the store is alive and well, and always worth the drive.

Let's hope the same holds true for Mill Avenue Districts' Eastside Records. As we remember it, the store, furnished by innards of various defunct record stores, was a compact goldmine of super obscure and collection-worthy vinyl. It was a place where folks could nerd out with the guys behind the counters and occasionally catch a live show.

Read the rest at ecollegetimes

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and in southern california, it seems that the turntable may just be part of the college decor in every dorm....

Vinyls revitalize music industry

By Nick Mindicino · Daily Trojan

Vinyl records are not just for DJs to spin any more.

These hunky, 12-inch pieces of wax are quickly becoming the physical medium of choice among music fans.

In an age when thousands of songs can be stored on a miniscule device like an iPod Nano, younger consumers are discovering that perhaps their grandparents were right all along: Vinyl is the way to go.

And artists, too, are taking note. From smaller bands like Punchline to mainstream artists like Katy Perry, it clearly behooves artists to release a record on vinyl.

Though the landscape seems nearly apocalyptic for CD sales in the wake of the digital downloading revolution, vinyl records are providing a glimmer of hope in their niche markets.

Read the rest at dailytrojan.com

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Taj Mahal – Recycling The Blues & Other Related Stuff – Columbia Records/ Original Recordings Group (45 rpm vinyl)

Rare look at an emerging blues legend is captured on exquisite vinyl.

Taj Mahal – Recycling The Blues & Other Related Stuff – Columbia Records KC 31605 (1972)/ Original Recordings Group 12” 45rpm stereo audiophile vinyl (2 discs), 37:54 total ****:

(Taj Mahal – steel guitar, kalimba, conch, hand claps, upright bass, vocals; The Pointer Sisters – background vocals; Howard Johnson – hand claps, tuba)

When Taj Mahal burst on the scene in the late sixties, it was difficult to classify his music. Playing guitar and harmonica, he fit the bill as a traditional blues artist. Folk enthusiasts appreciated his banjo work as well. He collaborated with a variety of artists, including rock musicians (Ry Cooder). With creative vision, he developed a unique blues mystique. His stage presence led him to, folk and blues festivals, national rock venues and clubs around the world.

His 1972 studio/live album, Recycling The Blues & Other Related Stuff has now been reissued on 45 rpm vinyl. This is an unusual recording with 11 tracks that clock in just shy of thirty-eight minutes. The first seven tracks are live, recorded at the Fillmore West in San Francisco. Side A opens with a “Taj” oddity…a conch solo! Known for experimenting with unusual instruments, the next cut is unexpected. Performing on kalimba (African thumb piano), he manages to extract a rhythmic flow from this “tinny” instrument, as the crowd responds enthusiastically. Switching to his trademark National steel guitar, Taj explodes with forceful strumming and an earthy, baritone voice on “Bound To Love Me Some”. As a solo performer, he has few peers in the totality of his delivery. The set becomes more innovative as the bluesman unveils a banjo for an instrumental, “Ricochet”. With indelible technique, a riveting progression of chord and individual notation transforms bluegrass into modern expression.

Side B starts with a solo a capella gospel song (“A Free Song/Rise Up Children Shake The Devil Out Of Your Soul”). Then, it’s vintage Taj Mahal as he delivers “Corinna” with his raspy vocal style. Without losing the idiosyncratic ambiance, a duet with tuba player Howard Johnson (“Cakewalk Into Town” is an appealing transition to studio material. Side C is some of his best work. Backed by the “unknown” (at the time, anyway) Pointer Sisters, Taj reinvents Robert Johnson’s “Sweet Home Chicago” and makes it his own. The gospel-laden backup vocals are exultant. The Pointers resonate like soulful Andrews Sisters with their three-part harmonies on “Texas Woman Blues”. The album concludes with a virtuosic solo guitar instrumental, “Gitano Negro”. Easily the longest cut on the album (eight and a half minutes), Taj alternates pensive, delicate phrasing with cadenced strumming. There is an underlying classical structure that coalesces with the up tempo riffs.

ORG Recordings Group re-mastered 45 rpm vinyl is superior to most digital reproductions. Pressed at RTI and mastered by Bernie Grundman from the original analogue master tapes, every nuanced detail, including the rarely used kalimba is pristinely clear. The tones of the steel guitar are rich in texture. Audiophiles and Taj Mahal enthusiasts will want to add Recycling The Blues & Other Related Stuff to their collections.

TrackList:
Side A: Conch Intro; Kalimba; Bound To Love Me Some; Richochet
Side B: A Free Song (Rise Up Children Shake The Devil Out Of Your Soul); Corinna; Conch:Close; Cakewalk Into Town
Side C: Sweet Home Chicago; Texas Woman Blues
Side D: Gitano Negro

–Robbie Gerson

Copyright © Audiophile Audition

AUDIOPHILE AUDITION focuses on recordings of interest to audiophiles and collectors, with an accent on surround sound for music, and on all hi-res disc formats. Over 100 SACD, DVD Video/Audio and standard CD reviews are published during each month, and our archives go back to January 2001.

Special thanks to John at www.audaud.com  for the exclusive rights to reprint this material.

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Ringo Starr Releasing New Album At End Of Month

Ringo Starr is scheduled to release his new album, 'Ringo 2012,' on January 31 in the US via Hip-O Records/UMe. The nine-track album features two covers, one of Buddy Holly's "Think It Over" and the other "Rock Island Line" as made famous by Lonnie Donegan. Guest appearances include guitarists Joe Walsh and Kenny Wayne Shepherd along with Amy Keys, Michael Bradford, Dave Stewart, Don Was, Steve Dudas, Edgar Winter, Charlie Haden, Richard Page, Kelly Moneymaker, Van Dyke Parks, Benmont Tench, and Bruce Sugar.

Starr produced this album, and it was recorded in Los Angeles and mixed in England. It will be released digitally, on CD and vinyl.

Tracklist
1. Anthem
2. Wings
3. Think It Over
4. Samba
5. Rock Island Line
6. Step Lightly
7. Wonderful
8. In Liverpool
9. Slow Down

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Hands Like Houses Reveal Album Artwork

Here is the cover art for Hands Like Houses' new LP, 'Ground Dweller.' Recorded at Chango Studios with Cameron Mizell, the album will be released on March 13 via Rise Records.

Tracklist:
1. Antarctica
2. Don't Look Now, I'm Being Followed. Act Normal.
3. This Ain't No Place For Animals
4. Spineless Crow
5. Starving to Death in the Belly of a Whale
6. A Clown and His Pipe
7. The Definition of Not Leaving
8. Lion Skin
9. One Hundred
10. Watchmaker
11. The Sower






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and in music history for december 14th:

In 1955, Big Joe Turner, the Clovers, Fats Domino, the Moonglows, the Drifters and the Harptones performed in two shows at the 6,000-seat St. Nicholas Arena in Harlem as disc jockey and concert promoter Alan Freed presented his first Rock and Roll Ball in New York City. Both shows sold out well in advance.

In 1963, at the Flamingo Jazz Club in the Soho section of London, drummer Charlie Watts made his live performance debut with the Rolling Stones.

In 1964, the Beatles (minus Ringo Starr, who was fog-bound in Liverpool) departed from Liverpool for Paris, France for an 18-day run at the Olympia Theatre. Arriving in Paris, John, Paul, and George were met by 60 fans. Ringo, accompanied by roadie Neil Aspinall, arrived the next day.

In 1966, David Jones changes his name to David Bowie to avoid confusion with Davy Jones from the Monkees, just in time for the release of his single, "Can't Help Thinking About Me". He would later say that he chose "Bowie" because he likes that "big American bear-killin' knife."

In 1967, over 25,000 people attend The Human Be-In - A Gathering Of The Tribes at San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. The event was a forerunner of major, outdoor Rock concerts and featured The Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Quicksilver Messenger Service and Big Brother And The Holding Company.

In 1967, the Rolling Stones released the single "Let's Spend the Night Together" in North America.

Released in the United Kingdom as a single in January 1967, "Let's Spend the Night Together" reached #3 on the UK Singles Chart. The song was included on the American version of the Stones' album 'Between the Buttons,' and was also released there as a single. However, due to the then-controversial nature of the lyrics (with its suggestion of casual sex) most radio stations opted to play the flip side "Ruby Tuesday" instead. The two songs charted separately on the US Billboard Hot 100, "Let's Spend the Night Together" stalling at #55 while "Ruby Tuesday" became a #1 hit. "Let's Spend the Night Together" features piano by both Jack Nitzsche and Keith Richards, organ by Brian Jones, drums from Charlie Watts, electric guitar and bass by Keith Richards, lead vocals by Mick Jagger and backing vocals from both Jagger and Richards. Bassist Bill Wyman does not appear on this track.

On The Ed Sullivan Show, the band was initially refused permission to perform the number. Sullivan himself told Jagger, "Either the song goes or you go." A compromise was reached to substitute the words "let's spend some time together" in place of "let's spend the night together"; Jagger agreed to change the lyrics but ostentatiously rolled his eyes at the TV camera while singing them. Ed Sullivan announced that the Rolling Stones would be banned from performing on his show again. In April 2006, for their first-ever performance in China, authorities prohibited the group from performing the song due to its "suggestive lyrics".



In 1970, a display of John Lennon's erotic "Bag One" lithographs opened in London. 2 days later Scotland Yard seized prints as evidence of pornography.

Also in 1970, Diana Ross performed for the last time with The Supremes at the Frontier Hotel in Las Vegas. During the show, Diana introduces her replacement, Jean Terrell, who will lead the group to seven more Top 40 hits, including the Top 10 entries "Up The Ladder To The Roof" and "Stoned Love" later in the year.

In 1972, Paul Simon released his self-titled solo debut album.

In 1973, Elvis Presley's Aloha From Hawaii concert is broadcast live to an estimated one billion people around the world. The soundtrack is later released as a two record set and becomes one of the King's best selling LPs of the '70s, hitting number one later the same year.

In 1978, the Sex Pistols played their last concert before breaking up. The show was in San Francisco, CA.

In 1978, an L.A. group called Player had the top tune in the US with "Baby Come Back". The song was written by band members Peter Beckett and John Crowley after both had broken up with their respective girl friends. The song reached #32 in the UK.

In 1984, when his "Pipes Of Peace" reached the top of the UK singles chart, Paul McCartney made British chart history by becoming the first artist to have a #1 record while part of a group (the Beatles), in a duo (with Stevie Wonder), in a trio (with Wings), and as a solo artist.

In 1989, Paul McCartney released his album 'Back In The U.S.S.R.' exclusively in Russia.

In 1992, Jerry Nolan, drummer for The New York Dolls, died at the age of 45. He was being treated for bacterial meningitis and bacterial pneumonia at St. Vincent's Hospital in New York, when he suffered a stroke and went into a coma from which he never recovered.

In 1995, Ruby Starr, vocalist for Black Oak Arkansas on their 1974 hit "Jim Dandy" as well as having her own solo career, died of cancer at the age of 45.

In 1999, the January issue of Rolling Stone magazine reveals that the two children of Melissa Etheridge and her partner Julie Cypher were fathered by David Crosby.

In 1999, Metallica sued Victoria's Secret, claiming that the manufacturer infringed on its trademark by marketing a line of "Metallica" lip pencils.

In 2005, a $100,000 statue honoring the late punk guitarist Johnny Ramone was unveiled by his widow Linda at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Johnny died from prostate cancer in September 2004 at the age of 55. Hundreds turned out for the ceremony, including Tommy Ramone – the only surviving band member. Dee Dee Ramone died of a drugs overdose in 2002 and Joey died in 2001 of lymphatic cancer.

In 2007, Amy Winehouse started a two-week run at #1 on the UK album chart with Back to Black (which went on to become the biggest-selling album of 2007 with sales over 1.5m copies).

In 2010, guitar great Jimmy Page was honored with the United Nations' first ever Pathways To Peace Award. Pathways To Peace is an international peace building, educational and consulting organization which has consultative status with the United Nations.

In 2011, as her latest release, "Haven't Seen the Last of Me" raced up Billboard's Dance Club Song chart, 64-year-old Cher was poised to mark the sixth decade in which she had a #1 hit. Her track record of achieving chart topping records includes: The 1960s - "I Got You Babe" The 1970s - "Gypsys, Tramps And Thieves" "Half Breed" "Dark Lady" and "All I Ever Need Is You." The 1980s - "If I Could Turn Back Time" and "After All" (with Peter Cetera) The 1990s - "Believe" "Strong Enough" and "All or Nothing". The 2000s - "Song For the Lonely" "A Different Kind of Love Song" and "When The Money's Gone."

Celebrating birthdays today, january 14th:  1969, L.L. Cool J (James Todd Smith) 1968, T-Bone Burnett 1948, Geoff Tate (Queensryche) 1959 and Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters, Nirvana)