Birthdays:
Record producer George Martin was born in London in 1926. Martin signed the Beatles in 1962 and produced all of their records until 1969. The Beatles chose not to use George Martin for their Let It Be album, but he was asked to produce the last Beatles' album, Abbey Road.
Pop singer and songwriter Van Dyke Parks (1941)
Stephen Stills - Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young (1945)
John Paul Jones, bassist for Led Zeppelin, was born in London in 1946. Before Zeppelin, Jones was an active session musician playing, directing and/or arranging for the Rolling Stones, the Outlaws, Jeff Beck, Mickey Most, the Yardbirds, the Mindbenders, the Everly Brothers, and the Supremes. Since Zeppelin's breakup, Jones has produced a variety of bands including the Butthole Surfers.
Raymond McGinley - Teenage Fanclub (1964)
They Are Missed:
Blues singer Amos Milburn died in Houston, Texas in 1980 at the age of 52. Milburn was one of the most consistent hitmakers in rhythm-and-blues from the mid-1940's to the early '50s. His 1947 recording of "Chicken Shack Boogie" was a million seller. Famous for his drinking songs including, "Let Me Go Home, Whiskey" and "One Scotch, One Bourbon, One Beer."
Randy California, guitarist for the 1960's rock band Spirit, drowns in a riptide while swimming off the coast of Molokai, Hawaii in 1997. He was 45. Spirit did have a Top-25 single in 1968, "I Got a Line on You," but they were known primarily for their critically-acclaimed albums, which blended hard rock, blues, country, folk and jazz.
Zak Foley bassist with EMF died in 2002 (age 31). The group had the 1990 world-wide hit single "Unbelievable."
History:
In 1955, Elvis Presley appeared in Boonesville, Virginia. The 20 year-old singer was still a regional star, but by the end of 56' he had become a national sensation, recording two albums, (which included 'Heartbreak Hotel' and 'Blue Suede Shoes'), appeared on national television 11 times, played over 100 concerts and signed a seven year contract with Paramount Pictures.
Fats Domino records "I'm Walkin'" in 1957.
In 1957, joined by Lester "Prez" Young and other jazz legends, Billie Holiday sings "Fine and Mellow" on the historic The Sound of Jazz telecast.
In 1959, Berry Gordy moved all of Motown's operations into a two-story house at 2648 West Grand Boulevard, which he christened "Hitsville."
The Beatles were seen for the first time on US TV in 1964 when a clip from the BBC's 'The Mersey Sound' showing the group playing "She Loves You" was shown on The Jack Paar Show. The Beatles would make their live US TV debut a month later on "The Ed Sullivan Show."
The Beatles get an early positive review from Billboard magazine in 1964 for “I Want To Hold Your Hand.”
The Beatles appeared on "Hullabaloo in 1966," performing "Day Tripper" and "We Can Work It Out" on videotape.
In 1967, Carl Wilson (Beach Boys) refused to be sworn in after receiving a U.S. Army draft notice. He said he was a conscientious objector.
In 1968, police at New Jersey's Newark Airport confiscate 30,000 copies of John Lennon and Yoko Ono's Two Virgins album, saying the cover photo of the nude John and Yoko is "pornographic." In Chicago, vice squad officers close down a record shop for displaying the cover.
In 1969, appearing live on UK TV's Lulu Show, Jimi Hendrix stopped performing his new single after a few bars and instead launched into a version of the Cream song "Sunshine Of Your Love" as a tribute to the band who had split a few days earlier.
B J Thomas started a four week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 1970 with "Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head." The song was featured in the film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
Working on the Get Back sessions at Studio Two of EMI Studios, London in 1970, three Beatles (Paul, George, and Ringo) recorded 16 takes of the George Harrison song "I Me Mine." John Lennon was away in Denmark at the time. It was the last song that the band would record together. A decade later it becomes the title of George Harrison's autobiography.
Jim Croce's "Time in a Bottle" goes gold in 1974, the second of three posthumous hits for the late singer/songwriter.
In 1974, Bob Dylan and The Band started a 39- date US tour, Dylan's first live appearance for over 7 years. There were more than 5 million applications for the 660,000 tickets.
The Bay City Rollers went to #1 on the US singles chart in 1976 with "Saturday Night." At the height of their US success, the Scottish group signed a deal to promote breakfast cereal.
In 1987, Aretha Franklin became the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
In 2000, Luciano Pavarotti agreed to pay the Italian authorities £1.6 million ($2.72 million) after losing an appeal against tax evasion charges. It was reported that the singer was worth £300 million ($510 million) at the time.
Remember," a John Lennon compilation CD, was issued as part of Starbucks' Hear Music's Opus Collection series in 2007. The 18-track disc featured solo Lennon hits, album cuts and rare recordings that previously appeared on The Beatles' "Anthology" retrospective.
A year later, also at Starbucks - songs by Lennon, Paul McCartney & Wings, Eric Clapton, Police, Fleetwood Mac and Crosby, Stills & Nash are on a two-CD set, "The Grammys -- 50th Anniversary Collection."
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Friday, January 1, 2010
Michael Fremer Review
Jethro Tull (reissue)
Aqualung
Island/Classic Records ILPS 9145-200G 200 gram LP
Produced by: Ian Anderson and Terry Ellis
Engineered by: John Burns
Mixed by: N/A
Mastered by: Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman Mastering
Review by: Michael Fremer
2009-12-01
Ian Anderson himself may wonder why people are still interested in Aqualung thirty-six years after it was first released—or maybe not. Though almost comically simple, the opening riff to the title cut is one of rock's most ingenious and indelible. The contemplative album is packed with memorable melodies expressing anger, nostalgia, pity, regret, tenderness and contempt.
Anderson totally jettisons his Roland Kirk and hyper-blues affectations for a neat blend of acoustic folk and electric rock and he knows how to shift the ensemble into spirited overdrive.
The arrangements are supple, the production is clean and the recording is intimate and well-organized, though bass is on the light side for a riff-oriented rock record.
I compared Classic's new 200g reissue with: 1) an original UK Chrysalis 2) an original American Chrysalis/Warner Brothers, 3) an original French Pink Label Island, 4) The Mobile Fidelity ' speed mastered edition and 5) DCC's 180g issue mastered by the team of Hoffman and Gray.
Now rather than make value judgments, let's just compare without prejudice. First of all, the EQ on the Mo-Fi is extreme: the bass has been boosted to cartoon levels and the upper mids have a presence region peak. Very 'hi-fi' and the intimacy and warmth of Anderson's voice is sacrificed to edge and sibilants. My least favorite, though the surfaces are dead quiet and the transients, as you'd expect from half-speed mastering, are clean and precise. On some systems, (bass shy, midband rich), the Mo-Fi could sound great.
The UK Chrysalis is somewhat disappointing, with harsh and overly large vocals plus somewhat brittle acoustic guitars. Overall, pretty good though, especially the tight and not overdone bass. I like the French Pink Label Island, for its warmish midrange and expressive acoustic guitars. It captures the intimacy I think Anderson wanted for his vocals and the crystalline, though warm bodied acoustic guitars.
The original American Warner Brothers/Chrysalis has the most coherent tonal balance of all of the commercial releases, with a rich midband and reasonably good extension. However, it sounds dynamically compressed and lacks ultimate clarity and focus
As for the DCC, I would never bet against the house of Hoffman/Gray, then operating at Artisan and the DCC is a model of good EQ taste and clarity, plus a fine 180g RTI pressing. Just for the hell of it, I also listened to the DCC gold CD. Give me a break! Martin Barre plays a descant recorder (a small, inexpensive wooden wind instrument in the key of C) on, among other tracks 'Mother Goose.' It's 'flutey' and 'woody' and 'airy' and 'round' on all of the LP editions. You can barely hear it on the CD.
However, the new Classic, cut from the original master tape loaned to Classic by Mr. Anderson himself, and not previously used by anyone to cut a lacquer, to the best of my knowledge, has it all. Cut by Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman's, the new version has warmth, extension, focus, clarity, dynamics and everything else you'd want.
Understand: like Acoustic Sounds' release of Yes's Fragile, Aqualung was not a great recording to begin with. It is somewhat bass shy, though the very bottom is surprisingly robust and if your system goes all the way down, you'll hear it on the Classic without the muck and mud added by too much low end EQ on some of the others.
This newest Aqualung is the definitive version and if you love this record, it's worth the money. You will hear musical details and colors not previously revealed on any other version and Mr. Anderson's vocals will literally be in your lap, they are so purely and intimately rendered on Bellman's cut. On no other version do the acoustic guitars have both believable attack and sustain.
As for the pressing quality, perhaps you've heard about Classic's recent 'hiccup,' or have had complaints about lead-in groove noise and/or warps on some Classic releases, especially the recent Norah Jones and Diana Krall.
Without going into all of the details, Classic has been 'experimenting' with pressing plants other than RTI and as with any 'start-up' operation, there have been difficulties. Indeed, pressing 'flat' lipless (no groove guard) 200 gram LPs is inherently problematic. By 'flat' I mean that the groove area does not dip down to the halfway point and up the rest of the way, as do all other LPs, 180 gram or whatever. Pressing flat is laudable as it eliminates azimuth and other errors caused by 'downhill' and 'uphill' travel. However, getting vinyl to flow properly to the outer grooves is tricky, and made even trickier by Classic's insistence on no 'groove guard' or outer lip. That profile allows some vinyl to flow in the tool beyond the edge of the record, creating noise and other issues.
So, Classic has re-tooled its tools to produce a slight lip that you will see on this and future Classic records. However, the records retain the flat profile and 200 gram weight. If the sealed pressing of Aqualung I received is typical of what we can expect from Classic going forward, I think everyone will be pleased. The record was perfectly flat and absolutely silent.
I am very proud to continue our new feature (look for this every Friday), music reviews that are written by the senior contributing editor of Stereophile magazine- Michael Fremer. It has been a pleasure to speak with Michael and learn more about audio sound and equipment. In fact, his new DVD, "It's A Vinyl World, After All" has hit the shelves and is selling out very quickly. This is a must have for anybody who loves vinyl, it is a true masterpiece.
Copyright © 2008 MusicAngle.com & Michael Fremer - All rights reserved
This Date In Music History-January 1st
Birthdays:
Joe McDonald - Country Joe and the Fish (1942)
Born on this day in 1945, Jim Gordon, American drummer, one of the most requested session drummers in the late 1960s and 1970s. Gordon co-wrote Layla with Eric Clapton, worked with The Everly Brothers, The Monkees, The Beach Boys, (Pet Sounds) The Byrds, George Harrison, (All Things Must Pass), John Lennon, (Imagine), The Carpenters, Traffic, Glen Campbell, (Wichita Lineman), Steely Dan, Jackson Browne, Frank Zappa and many others. A diagnosed schizophrenic, Gordon murdered his mother on June 3, 1983, by pounding her head with a hammer. He was sentenced to sixteen years-to-life in prison in 1984.
Morgan Fisher - Mott The Hopple (1950)
Diane Warren - US songwriter (1956) Warren has written over 80 US Top 20 hits.
Joseph Saddler (Grandmaster Flash)(1958)
They Are Missed:
Country singer Hank Williams died of a heart attack in 1953 brought on by a lethal cocktail of pills and alcohol (age 29). Made his first record in 1946, scored 36 Top 10 US country hits, his best Known being "Your Cheatin Heart." Over 20,000 mourners attended his funeral.
Alexis Korner died of lung cancer in 1984 (age 55). Known as "the Founding Father of British Blues", he was a major force behind the UK early 60's R&B scene. Formed Blues Incorporated; members at various times included Jack Bruce, Ginger Baker, Long John Baldry, Graham Bond and Charlie Watts. Had hits with CCS, including a version of Led Zeppelin's 'Whole Lotta Love' which was used as the theme for BBC's Top Of The Pops for several years. Became a radio presenter in the 70's.
History:
In 1912, the first song with the term "blues" in the title was released, "Memphis Blues" by W.C.Handy.
Jelly Roll Morton published his first composition, "The Jelly Roll Blues" in 1915.
In 1939, Billie Holiday was among the first artists to perform at Cafe Society, a new jazz club in Manhattan. Two classic songs introduced in this propitious year, "Strange Fruit" and "God Bless the Child," remain her masterworks.
In 1950, Sam Phillips opened Memphis Recording Service at 706 Union Avenue. He begins recording several local blues artists, including B.B. King, Howlin' Wolf and James Cotton.
Elvis Presley appeared at The Eagles Hall in Houston Texas in 1955. Presley went on to play over 250 shows in 1955.
The Kingston Trio hit #1 in 1958 with "Tom Dooley".
In 1959, "Baby Talk," by Jan and Dean, became the first of more than 150 singles featuring Hal Blaine on drums to reach the Top Ten.
Johnny Cash played a free concert for the inmates of San Quentin Prison, California in 1960.
Etta James made her Chess Records debut in 1960.
In 1960, RCA signed Sam Cooke to a recording contract that payed him a $100,000 advance.
Joan Baez' self-titled first album released in 1960.
In 1961, Motown signed the Primettes, a girl group just out of high school. They change their name to the Supremes.
The Beatles make their debut at the Cavern Club in Liverpool in 1961.
Robert Johnson's 'King of the Delta Blues' was released in 1961.
In 1962, the Beatles and the Tremeloes auditioned for Decca Records. Decca passed on The Beatles and signed the Tremeloes. Ooops....
Also in 1962-Bob Dylan's eponymous debut album released; as is Peter, Paul & Mary's self-titled debut.
'The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan' was released in 1963, containing "Blowin' In the Wind", "A Hard Rain's Gonna Fall" and "Don't Think Twice, It's Alright".
The Beach Boys recorded "Fun Fun Fun" in 1964.
Top Of The Pops premieres on British TV in 1964. Over the years, this landmark weekly music program presented nearly all the major British Rock groups. The Beatles, Rolling Stones and Dave Clark Five appear on the opener.
In 1966, Simon and Garfunkel started a two week run at #1 on the US singles chart with "The Sounds Of Silence."
The Doors made their first live television appearance lip-synching their first single ‘Break on Through’ on Shebang, KTLA-TV Channel 5 in Los Angeles in 1967.
In 1968, Billboard magazine reported that for the first time albums had outsold singles in the US with album sales reaching over 192 million units.
Carole King started a three week run at #1 on the US album chart in 1972 with 'Music', her second US chart topper.
In 1977, The Clash played the opening night at punk's first real venue, The Roxy Club in London.
London Calling, by the Clash, was released in 1980. Critics hail it as the best album of the Eighties.
Abba made their final live appearance as a group in 1982 when they played in Stockholm, Sweden.
VH1 makes its debut in 1985. It’s initially designed to appeal aging baby-boomers, leaving MTV to the teen audience.
Metallica release their classic “Master Of Puppets” in 1986. "I think there's still an innocence about it and just a ‘real world' attitude to it still," says Metallica’s James Hetfield, twenty years later. "And we weren't, I think, very influenced by all of the 'bigness' of Metallica [yet]."
Breakdancers Rob Pilatus and Fabrice Morvan signed a contract with Boney M producer Frank Farian in 1988. Milli Vanilli were born.
Nirvana signed a one-year recording contract with Sub Pop records in 1989.
In 1990, a new American radio station WKRL in Florida played the Led Zeppelin track 'Stairway To Heaven' for 24 hours, as a prelude to an all Zeppelin format.
Garth Brooks started a six week run at #1 on the US album charts in 1995 with 'The Hits.'
Dixie Chicks release their major label debut, "Wide Open Spaces" in 1998.
Joe McDonald - Country Joe and the Fish (1942)
Born on this day in 1945, Jim Gordon, American drummer, one of the most requested session drummers in the late 1960s and 1970s. Gordon co-wrote Layla with Eric Clapton, worked with The Everly Brothers, The Monkees, The Beach Boys, (Pet Sounds) The Byrds, George Harrison, (All Things Must Pass), John Lennon, (Imagine), The Carpenters, Traffic, Glen Campbell, (Wichita Lineman), Steely Dan, Jackson Browne, Frank Zappa and many others. A diagnosed schizophrenic, Gordon murdered his mother on June 3, 1983, by pounding her head with a hammer. He was sentenced to sixteen years-to-life in prison in 1984.
Morgan Fisher - Mott The Hopple (1950)
Diane Warren - US songwriter (1956) Warren has written over 80 US Top 20 hits.
Joseph Saddler (Grandmaster Flash)(1958)
They Are Missed:
Country singer Hank Williams died of a heart attack in 1953 brought on by a lethal cocktail of pills and alcohol (age 29). Made his first record in 1946, scored 36 Top 10 US country hits, his best Known being "Your Cheatin Heart." Over 20,000 mourners attended his funeral.
Alexis Korner died of lung cancer in 1984 (age 55). Known as "the Founding Father of British Blues", he was a major force behind the UK early 60's R&B scene. Formed Blues Incorporated; members at various times included Jack Bruce, Ginger Baker, Long John Baldry, Graham Bond and Charlie Watts. Had hits with CCS, including a version of Led Zeppelin's 'Whole Lotta Love' which was used as the theme for BBC's Top Of The Pops for several years. Became a radio presenter in the 70's.
History:
In 1912, the first song with the term "blues" in the title was released, "Memphis Blues" by W.C.Handy.
Jelly Roll Morton published his first composition, "The Jelly Roll Blues" in 1915.
In 1939, Billie Holiday was among the first artists to perform at Cafe Society, a new jazz club in Manhattan. Two classic songs introduced in this propitious year, "Strange Fruit" and "God Bless the Child," remain her masterworks.
In 1950, Sam Phillips opened Memphis Recording Service at 706 Union Avenue. He begins recording several local blues artists, including B.B. King, Howlin' Wolf and James Cotton.
Elvis Presley appeared at The Eagles Hall in Houston Texas in 1955. Presley went on to play over 250 shows in 1955.
The Kingston Trio hit #1 in 1958 with "Tom Dooley".
In 1959, "Baby Talk," by Jan and Dean, became the first of more than 150 singles featuring Hal Blaine on drums to reach the Top Ten.
Johnny Cash played a free concert for the inmates of San Quentin Prison, California in 1960.
Etta James made her Chess Records debut in 1960.
In 1960, RCA signed Sam Cooke to a recording contract that payed him a $100,000 advance.
Joan Baez' self-titled first album released in 1960.
In 1961, Motown signed the Primettes, a girl group just out of high school. They change their name to the Supremes.
The Beatles make their debut at the Cavern Club in Liverpool in 1961.
Robert Johnson's 'King of the Delta Blues' was released in 1961.
In 1962, the Beatles and the Tremeloes auditioned for Decca Records. Decca passed on The Beatles and signed the Tremeloes. Ooops....
Also in 1962-Bob Dylan's eponymous debut album released; as is Peter, Paul & Mary's self-titled debut.
'The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan' was released in 1963, containing "Blowin' In the Wind", "A Hard Rain's Gonna Fall" and "Don't Think Twice, It's Alright".
The Beach Boys recorded "Fun Fun Fun" in 1964.
Top Of The Pops premieres on British TV in 1964. Over the years, this landmark weekly music program presented nearly all the major British Rock groups. The Beatles, Rolling Stones and Dave Clark Five appear on the opener.
In 1966, Simon and Garfunkel started a two week run at #1 on the US singles chart with "The Sounds Of Silence."
The Doors made their first live television appearance lip-synching their first single ‘Break on Through’ on Shebang, KTLA-TV Channel 5 in Los Angeles in 1967.
In 1968, Billboard magazine reported that for the first time albums had outsold singles in the US with album sales reaching over 192 million units.
Carole King started a three week run at #1 on the US album chart in 1972 with 'Music', her second US chart topper.
In 1977, The Clash played the opening night at punk's first real venue, The Roxy Club in London.
London Calling, by the Clash, was released in 1980. Critics hail it as the best album of the Eighties.
Abba made their final live appearance as a group in 1982 when they played in Stockholm, Sweden.
VH1 makes its debut in 1985. It’s initially designed to appeal aging baby-boomers, leaving MTV to the teen audience.
Metallica release their classic “Master Of Puppets” in 1986. "I think there's still an innocence about it and just a ‘real world' attitude to it still," says Metallica’s James Hetfield, twenty years later. "And we weren't, I think, very influenced by all of the 'bigness' of Metallica [yet]."
Breakdancers Rob Pilatus and Fabrice Morvan signed a contract with Boney M producer Frank Farian in 1988. Milli Vanilli were born.
Nirvana signed a one-year recording contract with Sub Pop records in 1989.
In 1990, a new American radio station WKRL in Florida played the Led Zeppelin track 'Stairway To Heaven' for 24 hours, as a prelude to an all Zeppelin format.
Garth Brooks started a six week run at #1 on the US album charts in 1995 with 'The Hits.'
Dixie Chicks release their major label debut, "Wide Open Spaces" in 1998.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Audiophile Audition Review
THE BEATLES REMASTERED
14-album Stereo Reissue Set
Apple/Capitol/EMI
If you’re been resisting the Beatles Remastered in Stereo package and you’re an audiophile, you’re missing out on a memorable sonic experience.
Published on December 13, 2009
THE BEATLES REMASTERED
14-album Stereo Reissue Set
Apple/Capitol/EMI
SRP: $260
Please Please Me
With The Beatles
A Hard Day's Night
Beatles For Sale
Help!
Rubber Soul
Revolver
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
Magical Mystery Tour
The Beatles
Yellow Submarine
Abbey Road
Let It Be
Past Masters
It’s finally happened, similar to the recent Disney reissue of the classic animation features such as Snow White on Blu-ray, we now have the entire recorded catalog of the Beatles beautifully remastered on 14 single and double-CD enhanced CD albums, complete with 13 mini-documentaries on the recording of each album, as well as provided on a separate DVD - so you don’t have to put each CD into your computer to view them. A dedicated team of engineers at Abbey Road Studios in London spent four years using state of the art technology plus renovated vintage studio equipment to maintain the authenticity and integrity of the original analog recordings. There is also a separate Beatles Remastered Mono Set, gathering together all the Beatles recordings that were mixed for mono release (the stereo market was a small niche when most of the albums were originally released). It includes the mono album of both “Help,” and “Rubber Soul,” which have never been released on CD before. There are those Beatles fans who feel that the mono mixes are superior in every way to the early stereo versions, so let them indulge themselves in those if they wish.
I must say I held off on even requesting the stereo set for review since I had several of the albums in the excellent Mobile Fidelity reissues, plus a few British Parlophone vinyls of some of the originals such as Sgt. Pepper. Then I began to hear fellow audiophiles rave about the superb fidelity of these reissues and I decided to check into them. While I’m disappointed they were not released as hybrid SACDs like the Stones series, I’m bowled over by stunning results of the remastering to standard CD. They seem to come alive; one hears small details completely lost in all of the earlier CD transfers. I carefully compared the new reissue CDs to the Mo-Fi vinyls, using my highly tweaked SOTA turntable. I don’t really have any notes to consult, because the two sources sounded almost completely identical. The only obvious differences were observed when the level was turned way up and surface noise and rumble identified the vinyl vs. the CDs, or when the vinyl reach the last track close to the enter label, and the high frequencies began to be muffled vs. the clarity of the reissue CDs.
It was amazing how creative the Beatles and their producer George Martin were technically, considering they were restricted only to primitive four-channel recorders, and later on (by going to a more advanced studio than EMI) eight-track. Often they had to mix from one four-channel master to another to create more flexibility, and thus put all their vocals on one track, using the other three for additional instrumentals. Thus all the voices occasionally come out of just the left or right channel, but the newly-remastered versions often ameliorate this a bit by giving more of a center fill.
The original EMI tapes were in good shape, but the remastering engineers had to deal with a slight build up of dust. They transferred at 192K/24-bit via a Prism A-D converter. They removed electrical clicks, vocal pops on the mikes, excessive sibilance and bad edits, as long as it didn’t interfere with the original integrity of the songs. De-noising technology was used sparingly, with less than five of the 525 minutes of music subjected to the process. It was decided to use limiting only moderately so as to retain the original dynamics of the recordings. It is most satisfying to note that these reissues are not being compress to hell like most pop music on CD today. Comparisons were made with the earliest vinyl pressings as well as the original master tapes continuously during the remastering and equalization process.
While my set didn’t come with the boxed set detailed historical notes, booklets and posters, it had everything else. The only album without the Enhanced CD mini-documentaries is the double-CD Past Masters set. The short documentaries use mostly the “Ken Burns” zooming around effect on stills of the Beatles, but the soundtracks have comments by the various members and George Martin which give some background on the recording of the particular album. Some of the studio chat by the Beatles has never been heard before. Four of the albums are furnished in stereo on CD for the very first time: Please Please Me, With the Beatles, A Hard Day’s Night, and Beatles for Sale.
I became a Beatles fan originally with their Revolver album, and on the mini-documentary George Martin and the members talk about how working on that one opened up more sophisticated and complex tunes than they had ever created before. Without the creativity and wizardry of Martin the Beatles would probably never have achieved the high levels they did, but at the same time Lennon and McCartney should be recognized as among the greatest pop song writers of the century.
I should mention another aspect of this reissue of special interest to all surround sound fans: The Beatles stereo recordings have long been mined for surround sound effects (also Crosby, Stills & Nash and the Beach Boys.). I think part of their abilities in this area must be due to the simple miking and four-track recordings they were working with. The fact is most of them have a tremendous amount of L-R difference information embedded in the stereo signals, which can be easily decoded. I started many years ago with a simple single speaker in the back, hooked up to a Hafler derived surround circuit (connecting an efficient speaker to the two + terminals of an amp). Then I progressing to a Dynaco box. Now we have ProLogic IIx, which does an even better job of deriving surround ambience from the L-R information on standard stereo recordings. You will frequently hear a single guitar in one of the surround speakers, for example, or a chorus of voices coming from behind you during a portion of a tune. Since the stereo source is now so much cleaner and hi-res, you will get even better pseudo-surround effects using ProLogic or Circle Surround decoding.
If you’re been resisting the Beatles Remastered in Stereo package and you’re an audiophile, you’re missing out on a memorable sonic experience - even if you have a bunch of the best Beatles vinyls and a good turntable. This is a fabulous Beatles Bonanza.
- John Henry
I want to thank John over at http://www.audaud.com/index.php for the exclusive rights to reprint this great review!
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 100SACD, DVD Video/Audio and standard CD reviews are published during each month, and our archives go back to January 2001.
14-album Stereo Reissue Set
Apple/Capitol/EMI
If you’re been resisting the Beatles Remastered in Stereo package and you’re an audiophile, you’re missing out on a memorable sonic experience.
Published on December 13, 2009
THE BEATLES REMASTERED
14-album Stereo Reissue Set
Apple/Capitol/EMI
SRP: $260
Please Please Me
With The Beatles
A Hard Day's Night
Beatles For Sale
Help!
Rubber Soul
Revolver
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
Magical Mystery Tour
The Beatles
Yellow Submarine
Abbey Road
Let It Be
Past Masters
It’s finally happened, similar to the recent Disney reissue of the classic animation features such as Snow White on Blu-ray, we now have the entire recorded catalog of the Beatles beautifully remastered on 14 single and double-CD enhanced CD albums, complete with 13 mini-documentaries on the recording of each album, as well as provided on a separate DVD - so you don’t have to put each CD into your computer to view them. A dedicated team of engineers at Abbey Road Studios in London spent four years using state of the art technology plus renovated vintage studio equipment to maintain the authenticity and integrity of the original analog recordings. There is also a separate Beatles Remastered Mono Set, gathering together all the Beatles recordings that were mixed for mono release (the stereo market was a small niche when most of the albums were originally released). It includes the mono album of both “Help,” and “Rubber Soul,” which have never been released on CD before. There are those Beatles fans who feel that the mono mixes are superior in every way to the early stereo versions, so let them indulge themselves in those if they wish.
I must say I held off on even requesting the stereo set for review since I had several of the albums in the excellent Mobile Fidelity reissues, plus a few British Parlophone vinyls of some of the originals such as Sgt. Pepper. Then I began to hear fellow audiophiles rave about the superb fidelity of these reissues and I decided to check into them. While I’m disappointed they were not released as hybrid SACDs like the Stones series, I’m bowled over by stunning results of the remastering to standard CD. They seem to come alive; one hears small details completely lost in all of the earlier CD transfers. I carefully compared the new reissue CDs to the Mo-Fi vinyls, using my highly tweaked SOTA turntable. I don’t really have any notes to consult, because the two sources sounded almost completely identical. The only obvious differences were observed when the level was turned way up and surface noise and rumble identified the vinyl vs. the CDs, or when the vinyl reach the last track close to the enter label, and the high frequencies began to be muffled vs. the clarity of the reissue CDs.
It was amazing how creative the Beatles and their producer George Martin were technically, considering they were restricted only to primitive four-channel recorders, and later on (by going to a more advanced studio than EMI) eight-track. Often they had to mix from one four-channel master to another to create more flexibility, and thus put all their vocals on one track, using the other three for additional instrumentals. Thus all the voices occasionally come out of just the left or right channel, but the newly-remastered versions often ameliorate this a bit by giving more of a center fill.
The original EMI tapes were in good shape, but the remastering engineers had to deal with a slight build up of dust. They transferred at 192K/24-bit via a Prism A-D converter. They removed electrical clicks, vocal pops on the mikes, excessive sibilance and bad edits, as long as it didn’t interfere with the original integrity of the songs. De-noising technology was used sparingly, with less than five of the 525 minutes of music subjected to the process. It was decided to use limiting only moderately so as to retain the original dynamics of the recordings. It is most satisfying to note that these reissues are not being compress to hell like most pop music on CD today. Comparisons were made with the earliest vinyl pressings as well as the original master tapes continuously during the remastering and equalization process.
While my set didn’t come with the boxed set detailed historical notes, booklets and posters, it had everything else. The only album without the Enhanced CD mini-documentaries is the double-CD Past Masters set. The short documentaries use mostly the “Ken Burns” zooming around effect on stills of the Beatles, but the soundtracks have comments by the various members and George Martin which give some background on the recording of the particular album. Some of the studio chat by the Beatles has never been heard before. Four of the albums are furnished in stereo on CD for the very first time: Please Please Me, With the Beatles, A Hard Day’s Night, and Beatles for Sale.
I should mention another aspect of this reissue of special interest to all surround sound fans: The Beatles stereo recordings have long been mined for surround sound effects (also Crosby, Stills & Nash and the Beach Boys.). I think part of their abilities in this area must be due to the simple miking and four-track recordings they were working with. The fact is most of them have a tremendous amount of L-R difference information embedded in the stereo signals, which can be easily decoded. I started many years ago with a simple single speaker in the back, hooked up to a Hafler derived surround circuit (connecting an efficient speaker to the two + terminals of an amp). Then I progressing to a Dynaco box. Now we have ProLogic IIx, which does an even better job of deriving surround ambience from the L-R information on standard stereo recordings. You will frequently hear a single guitar in one of the surround speakers, for example, or a chorus of voices coming from behind you during a portion of a tune. Since the stereo source is now so much cleaner and hi-res, you will get even better pseudo-surround effects using ProLogic or Circle Surround decoding.
If you’re been resisting the Beatles Remastered in Stereo package and you’re an audiophile, you’re missing out on a memorable sonic experience - even if you have a bunch of the best Beatles vinyls and a good turntable. This is a fabulous Beatles Bonanza.
- John Henry
I want to thank John over at http://www.audaud.com/index.php for the exclusive rights to reprint this great review!
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 100SACD, DVD Video/Audio and standard CD reviews are published during each month, and our archives go back to January 2001.
Michael Jackson's Thriller Video Added to National Film Registry
The video for Michael Jackson's Thriller was a groundbreaking masterpiece when it was released on December 2, 1983. The music video industry was still in its infancy and then along came Jackson and director John Landis to take it to a whole new level. This was not the three minute promotional video that played all day long on MTV, but a 14-minute short film with full storyline and closing credits. The choreography by Jackson and Michael Peters greatly improved on their already groundbreaking work on the Beat It video and the film even had additional, orchestrated music by Elmer Bernstein. To this day, it is still regarded as the highpoint of music videos.
The Thriller video has been selected to go into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress' National Film Preservation Board. The selected films are deemed "culturally, historically or aesthetically" significant and are to be "preserved for all time." Over the course of the year, hundreds of films are nominated by the general public and members of the National Film Preservation Board and the Library of Congress' film staff narrow the list down to 25 inductees.
The Thriller video has been selected to go into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress' National Film Preservation Board. The selected films are deemed "culturally, historically or aesthetically" significant and are to be "preserved for all time." Over the course of the year, hundreds of films are nominated by the general public and members of the National Film Preservation Board and the Library of Congress' film staff narrow the list down to 25 inductees.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Ask Mr Music by Jerry Osborne
Let's continue our feature: Ask "Mr. Music." Now in its 24th year of syndication (1986-2010), Jerry Osborne's weekly Q&A feature will be a regular post every Wednesday from now on. Be sure to stop by Jerry's site (http://www.jerryosborne.com/) for more Mr. Music archives, record price guides, anything Elvis, buy & sell collectibles, record appraisals and much more. I thank Jerry for allowing the reprints.
FOR THE WEEK OF DECEMBER 28, 2009
DEAR JERRY: In the summer of 1964, when I heard “A Hard Day's Night” on the radio for the first time, I was struck by both its title and distinctive opening.
The dynamic power chord open speaks for itself, so my question is about the title.
Unless it's the answer to a question about itself, “A Hard Day's Night” isn't even a complete sentence. Very strange wording indeed.
What is its origin? Was “A Hard Day's Night” a hit record first and then a film title later, or was it the other way around?
—Beatle Bob in Buffalo
DEAR BBB: These are great questions for our anniversary column. This week we begin our 24th year in syndication.
“At first our picture was called “Beatles Number One” because we didn't yet have a title, and it was their first movie. Meanwhile I was getting these phone calls from United Artists' publicity people in New York asking what we were going to call this film. They were putting together the advertising and needed a title. I said I didn't know, but assured them we'd come up with something.
“Then John Lennon and I were just chatting on the set and he asked if I'd ever heard Ringo misuse the English language. I asked him to give me an example. He said if they were working hard at a recording session all night, the next day Ringo would say something about us really having a hard day's night.
“When you think about it, it really is a very interesting statement. Right then I told John “A Hard Day's Night” would be a good title for our movie. Fortunately, he agreed.
“So we went over and asked the director [Richard Lester] how he felt about it, and then the other three Beatles, and they all said it was fine and would be a great title. I think they were just relieved to not to have to think any longer about a title.
“I telephoned New York, and the publicity people at United Artists, saying here's your title: “A Hard Day's Night.” They said 'What?'
“I told them not to give me an answer right then, but to ask the secretaries their opinion and call me the next day.
“The following day they called to report that everyone at the New York office loved it.
“Now we had a title, but then it dawned on me that we didn't have a title song — and we had already recorded everything [written especially for the film]. In filmmaking, the songs are pre-recorded and then you just photograph the singers singing to their own tracks.
“So I mentioned to John one night that we needed to have another song, one titled “A Hard Day's Night.”
“His reaction was to ask what I was talking about.
“I explained by asking what kind of a producer would I be to have a film called “A Hard Day's Night,” starring the Beatles, and then NOT have a Beatles song called “A Hard Day's Night.” I asked him to please write this new song.
“The next morning, he and Paul called me into their dressing room — we were still shooting — and they played and sang to me their new song, “A Hard Day's Night.”
“Now, think about this: I got a hit song on demand! That's almost impossible. And it was one of their biggest hits ever.”
IZ ZAT SO? The United Artists soundtrack album, “A Hard Day's Night,” is the only one of the Beatles albums on which every track is written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, either individually or collectively.
Jerry Osborne answers as many questions as possible through this column. Write Jerry at Box 255, Port Townsend, WA 98368, e-mail: jpo@olympus.net, or visit his Web site: http://www.jerryosborne.com/. All values quoted in this column are for near-mint condition.
Copyright 2009 Osbourne Enterprises- Reprinted By Permission
News & Notes
Avenged Sevenfold Drummer Jimmy Sullivan Dies
Avenged Sevenfold drummer Jimmy Sullivan has passed away at the age of 28. Sullivan, who was also known as "The Rev," died at his home in Huntington Beach, southern California on Monday (December 28).
Reuters news agency reports the drummer died of natural causes. Sullivan’s death was confirmed in a statement on Avenged Sevenfold’s official website.
“It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we tell you of the passing today of Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan,” the statement said.
“Jimmy was not only one of the world's best drummers, but more importantly he was our best friend and brother.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jimmy's family and we hope that you will respect their privacy during this difficult time.”
Orange County Coroner's Office has launched an investigation into Sullivan’s death.
===============================
This Week's New Music Releases
Christina Milian - Christina Milian
DJ Official - Entermission
Downhere - Ending is Beginning
Sam Cooke - The Unforgettable
Rhett Atkins - People Like Me
Clash - London Calling 30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition (CD & DVD) (remastered)
Dire Straits - Dire Straits (vinyl reissue)
Green Day - Bakuhatsu Live EP
Jawbox - For Your Own Special Sweetheart (vinyl)
John Butler Trio - One Way Road
Midlake - Acts of Man (vinyl)
Neil Young - Greatest Hits (3-LP vinyl reissue)
Public Enemy - There's a Poison Goin' On... (remastered with bonus CD)
Super Furry Animals - Phantom Force (reissue with bonus CD)
Tangerine Dream - Legend (remastered)
TV on the Radio - Return to Cookie Mountain (2-LP vinyl reissue)
Critical Madness - Bringing Out the Dead
Coldstream Guards Band - Heroes
===============================
What?
Lars Ulrich of Metallica says that he is suffering from tinnitus, which he described to CNN as a "constant ringing in the ears. It never sort of goes away. It never just stops."
The drummer said he first noticed the problem back in 1988. "I would fall asleep often with the television on, and I would wake up in the middle of the night to go turn the TV off. Except it wasn’t actually on. When I realized that I was doing that frequently, actually getting up to turn the TV off that was not on to begin with, I realized that maybe I had some issues."
Avenged Sevenfold drummer Jimmy Sullivan has passed away at the age of 28. Sullivan, who was also known as "The Rev," died at his home in Huntington Beach, southern California on Monday (December 28).
Reuters news agency reports the drummer died of natural causes. Sullivan’s death was confirmed in a statement on Avenged Sevenfold’s official website.
“It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we tell you of the passing today of Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan,” the statement said.
“Jimmy was not only one of the world's best drummers, but more importantly he was our best friend and brother.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jimmy's family and we hope that you will respect their privacy during this difficult time.”
Orange County Coroner's Office has launched an investigation into Sullivan’s death.
===============================
This Week's New Music Releases
Christina Milian - Christina Milian
DJ Official - Entermission
Downhere - Ending is Beginning
Sam Cooke - The Unforgettable
Rhett Atkins - People Like Me
Clash - London Calling 30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition (CD & DVD) (remastered)
Dire Straits - Dire Straits (vinyl reissue)
Green Day - Bakuhatsu Live EP
Jawbox - For Your Own Special Sweetheart (vinyl)
John Butler Trio - One Way Road
Midlake - Acts of Man (vinyl)
Neil Young - Greatest Hits (3-LP vinyl reissue)
Public Enemy - There's a Poison Goin' On... (remastered with bonus CD)
Super Furry Animals - Phantom Force (reissue with bonus CD)
Tangerine Dream - Legend (remastered)
TV on the Radio - Return to Cookie Mountain (2-LP vinyl reissue)
Critical Madness - Bringing Out the Dead
Coldstream Guards Band - Heroes
===============================
What?
Lars Ulrich of Metallica says that he is suffering from tinnitus, which he described to CNN as a "constant ringing in the ears. It never sort of goes away. It never just stops."
The drummer said he first noticed the problem back in 1988. "I would fall asleep often with the television on, and I would wake up in the middle of the night to go turn the TV off. Except it wasn’t actually on. When I realized that I was doing that frequently, actually getting up to turn the TV off that was not on to begin with, I realized that maybe I had some issues."
This Date In Music History-December 30
Birthdays:
Paul Stookey - Peter, Paul and Mary (1937)
Kenny Penifallo - Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes (1940)
Michael Nesmith - Monkees (1942)
Davy Jones - Monkees (1945)
Roger Glover - Deep Purple and Rainbow (1945)
Singer Patti Smith (1946)
Jeff Lynne - Move and E.L.O. Traveling Wilburys (1947)
Tyrese (1978)
They Are Missed:
Born today in 1934 - Del Shannon (1961 US #1 single "Runaway") Died on February 8, 1990.
Clarence Satchell from The Ohio Players died in 1995 (age 55). Scored the 1974 US #1 single "Fire" and had hits with "Skin Tight" and "Love Roller Coaster."
Johnny Moore of the Drifters ("Under The Boardwalk") died of respiratory trouble in London in 1998.
Born today in 1942, Robert Quine, guitarist, Richard Hell and the Voidoids, (1977 album 'Blank Generation' features the track 'Love Comes In Spurts'). Worked with Lou Reed, Brian Eno, Lloyd Cole, They Might Be Giants. Found dead on May 31, 2004 of a heroin overdose.
Mary Frances Penick, better known as Skeeter Davis (December 30, 1931 – September 19, 2004)
Born on this day in 1928, Bo Diddley, (Elias McDaniel), guitarist, singer. When The Beatles first went to the US, John Lennon was asked what he would like to see; he replied 'Bo Diddley.' Diddley died from heart failure in Archer, Florida on June 2, 2008 (age 79)
History:
In 1962, pop Singer Brenda Lee was slightly injured when she runs into her burning Nashville home to rescue her poodle, Cee Cee. However, it is too late as the pet, which toured the world with Lee, succums to smoke inhalation. The home is destroyed by the flames.
New Musical Express' Twelfth International Popularity Poll lists British acts at the top of most categories for the first time in 1963. The #1 male singer is Cliff Richard, the #1 group is the Beatles and the Record of the Year is "She Loves You."
The Beatles scored their 15th US #1 in 1967 with "Hello Goodbye," Gladys Knight and the Pips were at #2 with "I Heard It Through The Grape Vine" and The Monkees at #3 with "Daydream Believer."
Frank Sinatra recorded the epic cut "My Way" in 1968.
Bob Marley visited Island Records’ head Chris Blackwell at his London office in 1971. The resulting association will make a superstar of Marley and establish Island as THE reggae label.
Swedish pop group, Abba, the world's most successful singing group of the decade, garner a US gold record for their Greatest Hits album in 1976.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer, the art-rock supergroup beloved by millions of fans and hated by most rock critics, annouced their break-up in 1978.
The J. Geils Band enjoy the biggest LP of their career with "Freeze-Frame," which turns gold on this date in 1981. The album will go on to #1 early in 1982.
In 1999, George Harrison and his wife Olivia were attacked when an intruder broke into their home in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. Olivia beat off the attacker with a poker and heavy lamp. Harrison who was stabbed in the chest was admitted to hospital and treated for a collapsed lung and various minor stab wounds. His wife, Olivia, was treated for cuts and bruises she had suffered in the struggle with the intruder. Police later arrested Michael Abram from Liverpool who had nursed an irrational obsession with the Beatles.
Nickelback went to #1 on the US singles chart in 2001 with "How To Remind Me."
Diana Ross was arrested for drunk driving by the Arizona highway patrol in 2002 after a motorist called to report a swerving vehicle in the western state of Arizona. When asked to walk in a straight line she fell over, could not count to 30 or balance on one foot. Police said the singer was twice over the drink drive limit with a blood-alcohol of 0.20, the legal limit is 0.08.
Young Jeezy was at #1 on the US album chart in 2006 with "The Inspiration" the rappers fourth album.
In 2006, 8,500 people attend Soul legend James Brown’s funeral service in Augusta, GA. Speakers included Rev. Jesse Jackson and Michael Jackson. The Godfather of Soul passed away five days earlier in Atlanta.
In 2007, Ian Anderson was named a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) as part of Queen Elizabeth II's annual New Year's Honours list. The Jethro Tull frontman was recognized for his contributions to music in the United Kingdom. Anderson seems to take the honor in stride. "A lowly MBE . . . requires only a discrete bow or curtsey from friends and family," writes the singer in an online post. "The rest of you can tell me to bugger off." That's graditude for you....
Patti Smith: Dream Of Life, a documentary about "Godmother of Punk," aired on PBS in 2009. In the works since ’96, the film was broadcast on the singer's 63rd birthday. "My own personal hope is just that people get some sense that I have more dimensions than is sometimes reported," Smith told the New York Times.
Paul Stookey - Peter, Paul and Mary (1937)
Kenny Penifallo - Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes (1940)
Michael Nesmith - Monkees (1942)
Davy Jones - Monkees (1945)
Roger Glover - Deep Purple and Rainbow (1945)
Singer Patti Smith (1946)
Jeff Lynne - Move and E.L.O. Traveling Wilburys (1947)
Tyrese (1978)
They Are Missed:
Born today in 1934 - Del Shannon (1961 US #1 single "Runaway") Died on February 8, 1990.
Clarence Satchell from The Ohio Players died in 1995 (age 55). Scored the 1974 US #1 single "Fire" and had hits with "Skin Tight" and "Love Roller Coaster."
Johnny Moore of the Drifters ("Under The Boardwalk") died of respiratory trouble in London in 1998.
Born today in 1942, Robert Quine, guitarist, Richard Hell and the Voidoids, (1977 album 'Blank Generation' features the track 'Love Comes In Spurts'). Worked with Lou Reed, Brian Eno, Lloyd Cole, They Might Be Giants. Found dead on May 31, 2004 of a heroin overdose.
Mary Frances Penick, better known as Skeeter Davis (December 30, 1931 – September 19, 2004)
Born on this day in 1928, Bo Diddley, (Elias McDaniel), guitarist, singer. When The Beatles first went to the US, John Lennon was asked what he would like to see; he replied 'Bo Diddley.' Diddley died from heart failure in Archer, Florida on June 2, 2008 (age 79)
History:
In 1962, pop Singer Brenda Lee was slightly injured when she runs into her burning Nashville home to rescue her poodle, Cee Cee. However, it is too late as the pet, which toured the world with Lee, succums to smoke inhalation. The home is destroyed by the flames.
New Musical Express' Twelfth International Popularity Poll lists British acts at the top of most categories for the first time in 1963. The #1 male singer is Cliff Richard, the #1 group is the Beatles and the Record of the Year is "She Loves You."
The Beatles scored their 15th US #1 in 1967 with "Hello Goodbye," Gladys Knight and the Pips were at #2 with "I Heard It Through The Grape Vine" and The Monkees at #3 with "Daydream Believer."
Frank Sinatra recorded the epic cut "My Way" in 1968.
Bob Marley visited Island Records’ head Chris Blackwell at his London office in 1971. The resulting association will make a superstar of Marley and establish Island as THE reggae label.
Swedish pop group, Abba, the world's most successful singing group of the decade, garner a US gold record for their Greatest Hits album in 1976.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer, the art-rock supergroup beloved by millions of fans and hated by most rock critics, annouced their break-up in 1978.
The J. Geils Band enjoy the biggest LP of their career with "Freeze-Frame," which turns gold on this date in 1981. The album will go on to #1 early in 1982.
In 1999, George Harrison and his wife Olivia were attacked when an intruder broke into their home in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. Olivia beat off the attacker with a poker and heavy lamp. Harrison who was stabbed in the chest was admitted to hospital and treated for a collapsed lung and various minor stab wounds. His wife, Olivia, was treated for cuts and bruises she had suffered in the struggle with the intruder. Police later arrested Michael Abram from Liverpool who had nursed an irrational obsession with the Beatles.
Nickelback went to #1 on the US singles chart in 2001 with "How To Remind Me."
Diana Ross was arrested for drunk driving by the Arizona highway patrol in 2002 after a motorist called to report a swerving vehicle in the western state of Arizona. When asked to walk in a straight line she fell over, could not count to 30 or balance on one foot. Police said the singer was twice over the drink drive limit with a blood-alcohol of 0.20, the legal limit is 0.08.
Young Jeezy was at #1 on the US album chart in 2006 with "The Inspiration" the rappers fourth album.
In 2006, 8,500 people attend Soul legend James Brown’s funeral service in Augusta, GA. Speakers included Rev. Jesse Jackson and Michael Jackson. The Godfather of Soul passed away five days earlier in Atlanta.
In 2007, Ian Anderson was named a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) as part of Queen Elizabeth II's annual New Year's Honours list. The Jethro Tull frontman was recognized for his contributions to music in the United Kingdom. Anderson seems to take the honor in stride. "A lowly MBE . . . requires only a discrete bow or curtsey from friends and family," writes the singer in an online post. "The rest of you can tell me to bugger off." That's graditude for you....
Patti Smith: Dream Of Life, a documentary about "Godmother of Punk," aired on PBS in 2009. In the works since ’96, the film was broadcast on the singer's 63rd birthday. "My own personal hope is just that people get some sense that I have more dimensions than is sometimes reported," Smith told the New York Times.
Monday, December 28, 2009
This Date In Music History-December 28
Birthdays:
Johnny Otis - 1958 US #9 single "Willie And The Hand Jive" (1921)
Charles Neville - Neville Brothers (1938)
Alan Schwartzberg - session drummer extraordinaire (1942). Schwartzberg has worked with the likes of John Lennon, Barry Manilow, Richie Havens, Peter Gabriel, Roxy Music, Jimi Hendrix (overdubs on the notorious "Crash Landing" and "Midnight Lightning" albums), KISS, and many others.
Edgar Winter - Edgar Winter Group (1946)
Dick Diamonde - Easybeats (1947)
Alex Chilton - Box Tops (1950)
Born today in 1953 - Richard Clayderman, French pianist who has sold over 70 million albums world-wide.
Country singer Joe Diffie (1958)
Marty Roe - Diamond Rio (1960)
John Legend (John Stephens) (1978)
Akon (Aliaune Thiam) (1979)
They Are Missed:
Chris Bell, guitarist with Big Star, was killed after his car crashed into a telephone pole in 1978 (age 27).
In 1983, after a heavy day's drinking, Beach Boy Dennis Wilson drowned while swimming from his boat moored in Marina Del Rey, California. With the help of President Reagan he was given a burial at sea, normally reserved for Navel personnel. Dennis was the only genuine surfer in The Beach Boys.
Born on this day in 1915, Roebuck 'Pop' Staples, vocals, The Staple Singers. Died December 19, 2000.
The body of Barry Cowsill of the Cowsills ("Hair") was discovered in the flood waters of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans in 2005.
History:
Drifters singer Clyde McPhatter's first solo hit, "Seven Days," enters the R&B chart in 1955. It will peak at #3 and go on to #44 on the pop chart next year.
The Doors' "Touch Me" was released in 1968.
The Beatles went to #1 on the US album chart in 1968 with the "White Album," the group's 12th US #1 album.
The Miami Festival, the first big rock festival held on the east coast, got under way in Hallendale, Florida in 1968. Tickets go for six and seven dollars and 100,000 people show-up at the three day event. Those appearing included: Jose Feliciano, Procul Harem, Three Dog Night, Chuck Berry, Fleetwood Mac, Marvin Gaye, Joni Mitchell, the Turtles and Canned Heat.
In 1971, Keith Moon emcees a concert for one of his favorite acts, Fifties revivalists, Sha Na Na at New York's famed Carnegie Hall.
Helen Reddy went to #1 on the US singles chart in 1974 with "Angie Baby," the singers third US #1. The song was turned down by Cher.
In 1975, Ted Nugent, known for gun-toting hunting epics in his native Michigan, ends up looking at the wrong end of the barrel at a show in Spokane, Washington. Twenty-five year old David Gelfer pointed a .44 magnum at the Nuge and was then brought down to the ground by members of the audience and security guards. Gelfer was charged with "intimidating with a weapon."
Rolling Stone magazine voted "Some Girls" by The Rolling Stones 'Album of the Year' in 1978.
In 1979, the Who, Pretenders, Specials and others perform at the third of four shows for the people of Kampuchea.
WEA (Warner/Elektra/Asylum) followed the lead set by RCA last month and raised its list price for 45 rpm singles to $1.99 in 1981.
Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana and Pearl Jam all appeared at Del Mar O'brien Pavilion, San Diego, California in 1991.
In 1991, nine fans were crushed to death at a charity basketball game in New York that was to feature Heavy D, Boys II Men and Run-D.M.C. Two thousand people tried to cram into a gym built for a few hundred.
In 1998, singer Ronnie Hammond of the Atlanta Rhythm Section was shot in the chest by a Macon police after allegedly lunging at an officer with a broken guitar handle and a hammer. Police were responding to reports that the singer was trying to commit suicide. Hammond makes a full recovery. This was the second incident with the police for Hammond. On December 9, 1998, police responded to an earlier suicide attempt.
50 Cent's debut album, 'Get Rich Or Die Tryin' was named the biggest selling album in the US in 2003 with the album going platinum six times over.
In 2005, Pink Floyd were voted the greatest rock stars ever in a survey of 58,000 listeners from UK radio station Planet Rock. Led Zeppelin were voted into second place, 3rd was The Rolling Stones, 4th The Who, 5th, AC/DC, 6th, U2, 7th, Guns N’ Roses, 8th, Nirvana, 9th, Bon Jovi and in 10th place Jimi Hendrix. Listeners also named the 1970s as the golden age of rock, followed by the 1960’s.
In 2008, John Lennon appeared in a television ad for One Laptop Per Child, a charity group that provides educational tools to underprivileged children. Thanks to digital technology, Lennon speaks about the importance of the organization's work. "You can give a child a laptop and more than imagine, you can change the world," says Lennon in the spot.
Johnny Otis - 1958 US #9 single "Willie And The Hand Jive" (1921)
Charles Neville - Neville Brothers (1938)
Alan Schwartzberg - session drummer extraordinaire (1942). Schwartzberg has worked with the likes of John Lennon, Barry Manilow, Richie Havens, Peter Gabriel, Roxy Music, Jimi Hendrix (overdubs on the notorious "Crash Landing" and "Midnight Lightning" albums), KISS, and many others.
Edgar Winter - Edgar Winter Group (1946)
Dick Diamonde - Easybeats (1947)
Alex Chilton - Box Tops (1950)
Born today in 1953 - Richard Clayderman, French pianist who has sold over 70 million albums world-wide.
Country singer Joe Diffie (1958)
Marty Roe - Diamond Rio (1960)
John Legend (John Stephens) (1978)
Akon (Aliaune Thiam) (1979)
They Are Missed:
Chris Bell, guitarist with Big Star, was killed after his car crashed into a telephone pole in 1978 (age 27).
In 1983, after a heavy day's drinking, Beach Boy Dennis Wilson drowned while swimming from his boat moored in Marina Del Rey, California. With the help of President Reagan he was given a burial at sea, normally reserved for Navel personnel. Dennis was the only genuine surfer in The Beach Boys.
Born on this day in 1915, Roebuck 'Pop' Staples, vocals, The Staple Singers. Died December 19, 2000.
The body of Barry Cowsill of the Cowsills ("Hair") was discovered in the flood waters of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans in 2005.
History:
Drifters singer Clyde McPhatter's first solo hit, "Seven Days," enters the R&B chart in 1955. It will peak at #3 and go on to #44 on the pop chart next year.
The Doors' "Touch Me" was released in 1968.
The Beatles went to #1 on the US album chart in 1968 with the "White Album," the group's 12th US #1 album.
The Miami Festival, the first big rock festival held on the east coast, got under way in Hallendale, Florida in 1968. Tickets go for six and seven dollars and 100,000 people show-up at the three day event. Those appearing included: Jose Feliciano, Procul Harem, Three Dog Night, Chuck Berry, Fleetwood Mac, Marvin Gaye, Joni Mitchell, the Turtles and Canned Heat.
In 1971, Keith Moon emcees a concert for one of his favorite acts, Fifties revivalists, Sha Na Na at New York's famed Carnegie Hall.
Helen Reddy went to #1 on the US singles chart in 1974 with "Angie Baby," the singers third US #1. The song was turned down by Cher.
In 1975, Ted Nugent, known for gun-toting hunting epics in his native Michigan, ends up looking at the wrong end of the barrel at a show in Spokane, Washington. Twenty-five year old David Gelfer pointed a .44 magnum at the Nuge and was then brought down to the ground by members of the audience and security guards. Gelfer was charged with "intimidating with a weapon."
Rolling Stone magazine voted "Some Girls" by The Rolling Stones 'Album of the Year' in 1978.
In 1979, the Who, Pretenders, Specials and others perform at the third of four shows for the people of Kampuchea.
WEA (Warner/Elektra/Asylum) followed the lead set by RCA last month and raised its list price for 45 rpm singles to $1.99 in 1981.
Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana and Pearl Jam all appeared at Del Mar O'brien Pavilion, San Diego, California in 1991.
In 1991, nine fans were crushed to death at a charity basketball game in New York that was to feature Heavy D, Boys II Men and Run-D.M.C. Two thousand people tried to cram into a gym built for a few hundred.
In 1998, singer Ronnie Hammond of the Atlanta Rhythm Section was shot in the chest by a Macon police after allegedly lunging at an officer with a broken guitar handle and a hammer. Police were responding to reports that the singer was trying to commit suicide. Hammond makes a full recovery. This was the second incident with the police for Hammond. On December 9, 1998, police responded to an earlier suicide attempt.
50 Cent's debut album, 'Get Rich Or Die Tryin' was named the biggest selling album in the US in 2003 with the album going platinum six times over.
In 2005, Pink Floyd were voted the greatest rock stars ever in a survey of 58,000 listeners from UK radio station Planet Rock. Led Zeppelin were voted into second place, 3rd was The Rolling Stones, 4th The Who, 5th, AC/DC, 6th, U2, 7th, Guns N’ Roses, 8th, Nirvana, 9th, Bon Jovi and in 10th place Jimi Hendrix. Listeners also named the 1970s as the golden age of rock, followed by the 1960’s.
In 2008, John Lennon appeared in a television ad for One Laptop Per Child, a charity group that provides educational tools to underprivileged children. Thanks to digital technology, Lennon speaks about the importance of the organization's work. "You can give a child a laptop and more than imagine, you can change the world," says Lennon in the spot.
News & Notes
New NIN Coming For 2010
Trent Reznor dropped a little Christmas present to fans on the Nine Inch Nails Website, promising that the new year will bring new music from his new studio-only project. “2010 has a number of things planned including new material from Nine Inch Nails and something else that isn’t Nine Inch Nails,” Reznor wrote. “I am in a state of rediscovery and reinvention that feels unfamiliar, unsure and exactly what I need.”
==========================
Sir Paul Solo Work To Rock Band
Paul McCartney became a video game avatar earlier this year with his Beatle bandmates in The Beatles: Rock Band, but until now the series has been devoid of any solo Macca material. On January 5th, this will change, when three tracks from McCartney’s live Good Evening, New York City will be added to the Rock Band and LEGO Rock Band marketplace as downloadable content. The “New York Pack 01″ will feature “Band on the Run,” “Jet” and “Sing the Changes,” all taken from McCartney’s epic shows at New York’s new home of the Mets, Citi Field. The tracks will become available for XBox 360 and Wii on January 5th, while Playstation 3 users can get their hands on the content on January 7th.
==========================
Singer-Songwriter Vic Chesnutt Dies at 45
Vic Chesnutt, the Georgia-based singer-songwriter known for his darkly comic songs, died yesterday in Athens, Georgia, after spending several days in a coma caused by an overdose of muscle relaxers.
Read about it here: http://www.rollingstone.com/
Trent Reznor dropped a little Christmas present to fans on the Nine Inch Nails Website, promising that the new year will bring new music from his new studio-only project. “2010 has a number of things planned including new material from Nine Inch Nails and something else that isn’t Nine Inch Nails,” Reznor wrote. “I am in a state of rediscovery and reinvention that feels unfamiliar, unsure and exactly what I need.”
==========================
Sir Paul Solo Work To Rock Band
Paul McCartney became a video game avatar earlier this year with his Beatle bandmates in The Beatles: Rock Band, but until now the series has been devoid of any solo Macca material. On January 5th, this will change, when three tracks from McCartney’s live Good Evening, New York City will be added to the Rock Band and LEGO Rock Band marketplace as downloadable content. The “New York Pack 01″ will feature “Band on the Run,” “Jet” and “Sing the Changes,” all taken from McCartney’s epic shows at New York’s new home of the Mets, Citi Field. The tracks will become available for XBox 360 and Wii on January 5th, while Playstation 3 users can get their hands on the content on January 7th.
==========================
Singer-Songwriter Vic Chesnutt Dies at 45
Vic Chesnutt, the Georgia-based singer-songwriter known for his darkly comic songs, died yesterday in Athens, Georgia, after spending several days in a coma caused by an overdose of muscle relaxers.
Read about it here: http://www.rollingstone.com/
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Interesting Stuff
Read an interview with J. Robbins of Jawbox
http://www.brooklynvegan.com/archives/2009/12/an_interview_wi_36.html
Make Your Own Album Cover Art Contest
http://www.freshbrain.org/activity/make-your-own-album-cover-art-contest
Local hi-fi legend Merrill taps 'energy management' to drive new turntable
Puts new spin on vinyl
Memphian George Merrill -- a leader in the world of high-fidelity turntables since the 1970s -- and his business partner, Robert Williams, will debut a new turntable at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this January.
With more than 3,000 exhibitors, the Consumer Electronics Show is the nation's biggest tech trade show. It drew 113,085 attendees in 2009. The event is scheduled for Jan. 7-10.
Music-obsessed Memphians may remember Merrill's emporium, Underground Sound, which was just east of Central and Cooper. His new turntable will also be manufactured in Memphis.
Read the rest here:
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2009/dec/26/new-spin-on-vinyl/
http://www.brooklynvegan.com/archives/2009/12/an_interview_wi_36.html
Make Your Own Album Cover Art Contest
http://www.freshbrain.org/activity/make-your-own-album-cover-art-contest
Local hi-fi legend Merrill taps 'energy management' to drive new turntable
Puts new spin on vinyl
Memphian George Merrill -- a leader in the world of high-fidelity turntables since the 1970s -- and his business partner, Robert Williams, will debut a new turntable at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this January.
With more than 3,000 exhibitors, the Consumer Electronics Show is the nation's biggest tech trade show. It drew 113,085 attendees in 2009. The event is scheduled for Jan. 7-10.
Music-obsessed Memphians may remember Merrill's emporium, Underground Sound, which was just east of Central and Cooper. His new turntable will also be manufactured in Memphis.
Read the rest here:
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2009/dec/26/new-spin-on-vinyl/
News & Notes
Book Of Eli Soundtrack
Reprise Records will release the original motion picture soundtrack to the Hughes Brothers-directed feature film Book Of Eli on January 12th, 2010 — three days before the film hits theaters nationwide on January 15th, 2010.
The Book of Eli Original Motion Picture Soundtrack features an original score by composer/musician/producer Atticus Ross, marking his third collaboration with the Hughes Brothers and his first feature film score. Ross' music is a unique hybrid score of electronic and organic elements; writing with his wife (Claudia Sarne) and brother (Leopold Ross), the basic tracks were recorded at his studio in Los Angeles before departing to London where it was finished in Abbey Road Studios with a full 80-piece orchestra.
The soundtrack will be released as a standard CD as well as in three digital packages: A standard version available from all digital service providers, a deluxe version featuring three bonus tracks ("The Bridge," "Carnergie's Purpose," and "Dissolve") from all DSP's excluding iTunes, and an exclusive iTunes package featuring the three bonus tracks listed above plus a remix of "Panoramic" by TV on the Radio's Dave Sitek. A vinyl version of the soundtrack will be released in February.
==============================
Metallica Make History
Metallica received a big Christmas gift from Nielsen SoundScan with news that their Black Album has reportedly earned a historic distinction. BW&BK has the story:
Metallica's self-titled album from 1991 (known as the black album) has surpassed Shania Twain's 1997 CD "Come On Over" to become the best-selling album since Nielsen SoundScan began tracking sales for Billboard on March 1, 1991. Metallica has sold 15,490,000 copies whereas Come On Over has sold 15,487,000.
Yahoo's chart watch says that " Metallica is the only fourth album to head Nielsen/SoundScan's "release to date" chart, which lists the albums that have sold the most copies in its history." more Interestingly, the RIAA website shows that the Twain album is 20 times platinum (20 million). The SoundScan numbers are based on actual sales where as the RIAA base their numbers on the number of albums that the record company has shipped. The latest numbers we have from SoundScan were from last year's recap where they show Metallica with sales of 15,319,000 and the Twain album with 15,473,000, so this looks legit to us!
The RIAA site says that the Metallica self-titled album earned its latest multi-platinum award on November 13th when it was recognized for shipping 15 X platinum. (15 million). Guess they were a little behind. -
Reprise Records will release the original motion picture soundtrack to the Hughes Brothers-directed feature film Book Of Eli on January 12th, 2010 — three days before the film hits theaters nationwide on January 15th, 2010.
The Book of Eli Original Motion Picture Soundtrack features an original score by composer/musician/producer Atticus Ross, marking his third collaboration with the Hughes Brothers and his first feature film score. Ross' music is a unique hybrid score of electronic and organic elements; writing with his wife (Claudia Sarne) and brother (Leopold Ross), the basic tracks were recorded at his studio in Los Angeles before departing to London where it was finished in Abbey Road Studios with a full 80-piece orchestra.
The soundtrack will be released as a standard CD as well as in three digital packages: A standard version available from all digital service providers, a deluxe version featuring three bonus tracks ("The Bridge," "Carnergie's Purpose," and "Dissolve") from all DSP's excluding iTunes, and an exclusive iTunes package featuring the three bonus tracks listed above plus a remix of "Panoramic" by TV on the Radio's Dave Sitek. A vinyl version of the soundtrack will be released in February.
==============================
Metallica Make History
Metallica received a big Christmas gift from Nielsen SoundScan with news that their Black Album has reportedly earned a historic distinction. BW&BK has the story:
Metallica's self-titled album from 1991 (known as the black album) has surpassed Shania Twain's 1997 CD "Come On Over" to become the best-selling album since Nielsen SoundScan began tracking sales for Billboard on March 1, 1991. Metallica has sold 15,490,000 copies whereas Come On Over has sold 15,487,000.
Yahoo's chart watch says that " Metallica is the only fourth album to head Nielsen/SoundScan's "release to date" chart, which lists the albums that have sold the most copies in its history." more Interestingly, the RIAA website shows that the Twain album is 20 times platinum (20 million). The SoundScan numbers are based on actual sales where as the RIAA base their numbers on the number of albums that the record company has shipped. The latest numbers we have from SoundScan were from last year's recap where they show Metallica with sales of 15,319,000 and the Twain album with 15,473,000, so this looks legit to us!
The RIAA site says that the Metallica self-titled album earned its latest multi-platinum award on November 13th when it was recognized for shipping 15 X platinum. (15 million). Guess they were a little behind. -
Saturday, December 26, 2009
News & Notes
U2 Club Members Get Bonus
U2 fan club members will have the chance to get a special new release called Artificial Horizon consisting of remixes of some of their best known songs of the past 12 years plus a few updated album tracks.
Their official site describes the album:
It's almost 15 years since the remix CD Melon was released exclusively to subscribers of the band's magazine Propaganda. Now comes Artificial Horizon, an all-new limited edition album of U2 remixes only for U2.com subscribers. From Trent Reznor's remix of Vertigo to Jacknife Lee's take on Fast Cars and David Holmes's remix of Beautiful Day, this specially produced 13-track CD features stretches from the Grand Jury Mix of If God Will Send His Angels in 1997 to the Fish Out Of Water mix of Get On Your Boots. Conceived and produced for U2.com subscribers. 'Artificial Horizon' will be mailed to qualifying subscribers from late January 2010.
============================
Vinyl pressing is back thanks to Montreal's Rip-V
Vinyl groove
Meg Hewings
With the advent of the digital download, CD sales are down, but the love of vinyl is holding strong. Vinyl sales hit record numbers in 2009 and a new vinyl pressing plant in Montreal, the one-and-only in Canada, is ready to meet demand.
Rip-V opened eight months ago in the Montreal suburb of St-Lambert and is currently pressing Tom Waits' latest live album, and just finished pressing Orange Orange's first 12-inch and We Are Wolves' Invisible Violence.
Philippe Dubuc, co-owner, president and presser at Rip-V, says vinyl's tangibility, fidelity and nostalgic appeal is helping the analog medium make a resurgence.
In 2007, local distributor f.a.b. purchased presses in New Jersey, and then brought Dubuc onboard to learn and revive the art in Canada. Dubuc now presses around 5,000 records weekly, and with only six of the 13 presses up and firing, there's room to grow.
"In the digital revolution, the physical aspect of music is disappearing. In this context, vinyl is a hundred times more interesting than a CD, because it has a social and physical aspect: You sit down and listen to vinyl, you're deeply involved in experience of the music."
Dubuc says given the historical context for music formats, "this better sounding medium" is helping drive sales among audiophiles and fidelity freaks, and the new iPod generation. "It's kids in their teens and 20s that are moving
towards this medium now. Artists make records and they spend time on the art, the liner notes and the cover. This doesn't show up on an iPod screen."
At present, indie Epitaph is Rip-V's biggest client, but word of mouth has helped the upstart press make the rounds. "Everyone is looking for vinyl, so word gets around quickly."
SOURCE: http://www.hour.ca/
============================
IMMOLATION: 'Majesty And Decay' Cover Artwork Unveiled
Veteran death metallers IMMOLATION will release their eighth album, "Majesty And Decay", on March 9, 2010 in North America via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was recorded Millbrook Sound Studios in New York with longtime producer Paul Orofino. Mixing duties were handled by Zack Ohren, who has previously worked with DECREPIT BIRTH, SUFFOCATION and ALL SHALL PERISH, among others.
IMMOLATION's new album contains "10 songs [plus two intros] of the strongest material we have ever written," the band said in a statement. "The new material is more violent and aggressive, with fast sections that take us to a new level of speed and intensity, while complementing the dark and sullen heavier moments. There are plenty of miserable and militant movements to please the diehard and new IMMOLATION fans alike."
U2 fan club members will have the chance to get a special new release called Artificial Horizon consisting of remixes of some of their best known songs of the past 12 years plus a few updated album tracks.
Their official site describes the album:
It's almost 15 years since the remix CD Melon was released exclusively to subscribers of the band's magazine Propaganda. Now comes Artificial Horizon, an all-new limited edition album of U2 remixes only for U2.com subscribers. From Trent Reznor's remix of Vertigo to Jacknife Lee's take on Fast Cars and David Holmes's remix of Beautiful Day, this specially produced 13-track CD features stretches from the Grand Jury Mix of If God Will Send His Angels in 1997 to the Fish Out Of Water mix of Get On Your Boots. Conceived and produced for U2.com subscribers. 'Artificial Horizon' will be mailed to qualifying subscribers from late January 2010.
============================
Vinyl pressing is back thanks to Montreal's Rip-V
Vinyl groove
Meg Hewings
With the advent of the digital download, CD sales are down, but the love of vinyl is holding strong. Vinyl sales hit record numbers in 2009 and a new vinyl pressing plant in Montreal, the one-and-only in Canada, is ready to meet demand.
Rip-V opened eight months ago in the Montreal suburb of St-Lambert and is currently pressing Tom Waits' latest live album, and just finished pressing Orange Orange's first 12-inch and We Are Wolves' Invisible Violence.
Philippe Dubuc, co-owner, president and presser at Rip-V, says vinyl's tangibility, fidelity and nostalgic appeal is helping the analog medium make a resurgence.
In 2007, local distributor f.a.b. purchased presses in New Jersey, and then brought Dubuc onboard to learn and revive the art in Canada. Dubuc now presses around 5,000 records weekly, and with only six of the 13 presses up and firing, there's room to grow.
"In the digital revolution, the physical aspect of music is disappearing. In this context, vinyl is a hundred times more interesting than a CD, because it has a social and physical aspect: You sit down and listen to vinyl, you're deeply involved in experience of the music."
Dubuc says given the historical context for music formats, "this better sounding medium" is helping drive sales among audiophiles and fidelity freaks, and the new iPod generation. "It's kids in their teens and 20s that are moving
towards this medium now. Artists make records and they spend time on the art, the liner notes and the cover. This doesn't show up on an iPod screen."
At present, indie Epitaph is Rip-V's biggest client, but word of mouth has helped the upstart press make the rounds. "Everyone is looking for vinyl, so word gets around quickly."
SOURCE: http://www.hour.ca/
============================
IMMOLATION: 'Majesty And Decay' Cover Artwork Unveiled
Veteran death metallers IMMOLATION will release their eighth album, "Majesty And Decay", on March 9, 2010 in North America via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was recorded Millbrook Sound Studios in New York with longtime producer Paul Orofino. Mixing duties were handled by Zack Ohren, who has previously worked with DECREPIT BIRTH, SUFFOCATION and ALL SHALL PERISH, among others.
IMMOLATION's new album contains "10 songs [plus two intros] of the strongest material we have ever written," the band said in a statement. "The new material is more violent and aggressive, with fast sections that take us to a new level of speed and intensity, while complementing the dark and sullen heavier moments. There are plenty of miserable and militant movements to please the diehard and new IMMOLATION fans alike."
This Date In Music History-December 26
Birthdays:
Born on this day, Abdul 'Duke' Fakir - Four Tops (1935)
Phil Spector (full name Harvey Phillip Spector) was born in the Bronx section of New York in 1940. As a producer, as well as a songwriter, label owner, and session player, Spector has had a significant influence on the course of rock & roll. The "wall of sound" that he perfected in the early '60s opened unlimited possibilities for arrangements and sound construction in rock and pop music.
Henning Schmitz - Kraftwerk (1953)
Lars Ulrich - Metallica (1955)
Jay Noel Yuenger - White Zombie (1967)
Peter Klett - Candlebox (1969)
James Mercer - The Shins (1970)
Jared Joseph Leto - 30 Seconds to Mars (1971)
Chris Daughtry (1979) Daughtry was the fourth-place finalist on the fifth season of American Idol. His band's self-titled debut 2007 US #1 album sold more than 1 million copies after just five weeks of release, becoming the fastest selling debut rock album of all time.
They Are Missed:
Bluesman Freddie King died in Dallas in 1976 at the age of 42. He was a major influence on many British rockers such as Eric Clapton.
Soul, R&B, and funk singer, songwriter Curtis Mayfield died in 1999 (age 57).
History:
Bill Haley and the Comets' "See You Later Alligator" was released by Decca Records in 1955. Topping out at #6 on the pop chart, it will be his biggest hit since "Rock Around the Clock."
In 1956, Fats Domino's "Blue Monday" entered the pop chart, eventually peaking at #9. Mickey and Sylvia made their pop chart debut with "Love is Strange," which peaked at #13.
In 1963, Capitol Records, the EMI-affiliated company which has rejected U.S. rights to every Beatles record offered so far, finally rush-releases "I Want to Hold Your Hand" b/w "I Saw Her Standing There." Within five weeks, it will hit Number One.
The Beatles started a three week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 1964 with "I Feel Fine." It was the group's 6th #1 of the year in which they had 30 entries on the chart, giving them a total of 18 weeks at the top of the charts.
In 1964, after a year of being criticized for their long hair, the Rolling Stones took out an ad in the New Musical Express wishing “starving hairdressers and their families a Happy Christmas.”
The Jimi Hendrix Experience played an afternoon show at The Uppercut Club, London in 1966. Hendrix also wrote the lyrics to Purple Haze in the dressing room on the same day.
In 1967, BBC Television broadcast The Beatles' movie ‘Magical Mystery Tour’ in black and white. The next day, the British press and the viewing public pronounce the film an utter disaster. The negative reaction was so strong that a US television deal for broadcasting the movie was cancelled.
Led Zeppelin started their first North American tour in 1968, supporting Vanilla Fudge and Spirit at Denver Auditorium, Colorado, tickets for this Sunday night gig cost $5.
George Harrison started a four week run at #1 on the US singles chart with "My Sweet Lord," making him the first Beatle to score a #1 US hit. The song was originally intended for Billy Preston.
"John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band," Lennon’s debut album as a solo artist, entered the album charts in 1970. This stark, confessional recording is regarded by many as his greatest achievement.
In 1979, the first night of a series of concerts were held at The Hammersmith Odeon in London for the People of Kampuchea, featuring Queen, The Clash, The Pretenders, The Who, Elvis Costello, Wings, and many more artists. The events, which were organised by Paul McCartney and Kurt Waldheim, were aimed to raise money for the victims of war-torn Cambodia.
AC/DC started a three-week run at #1 on the US album chart in 1981 with 'For Those About To Rock We Salute You'.
Notorious BIG was at #1 on the US album chart in 1999 with "Born Again."
2Pac went to #1 on the US album chart in 2004 with "Loyal To The Game."
Born on this day, Abdul 'Duke' Fakir - Four Tops (1935)
Phil Spector (full name Harvey Phillip Spector) was born in the Bronx section of New York in 1940. As a producer, as well as a songwriter, label owner, and session player, Spector has had a significant influence on the course of rock & roll. The "wall of sound" that he perfected in the early '60s opened unlimited possibilities for arrangements and sound construction in rock and pop music.
Henning Schmitz - Kraftwerk (1953)
Lars Ulrich - Metallica (1955)
Jay Noel Yuenger - White Zombie (1967)
Peter Klett - Candlebox (1969)
James Mercer - The Shins (1970)
Jared Joseph Leto - 30 Seconds to Mars (1971)
Chris Daughtry (1979) Daughtry was the fourth-place finalist on the fifth season of American Idol. His band's self-titled debut 2007 US #1 album sold more than 1 million copies after just five weeks of release, becoming the fastest selling debut rock album of all time.
They Are Missed:
Bluesman Freddie King died in Dallas in 1976 at the age of 42. He was a major influence on many British rockers such as Eric Clapton.
Soul, R&B, and funk singer, songwriter Curtis Mayfield died in 1999 (age 57).
History:
Bill Haley and the Comets' "See You Later Alligator" was released by Decca Records in 1955. Topping out at #6 on the pop chart, it will be his biggest hit since "Rock Around the Clock."
In 1956, Fats Domino's "Blue Monday" entered the pop chart, eventually peaking at #9. Mickey and Sylvia made their pop chart debut with "Love is Strange," which peaked at #13.
In 1963, Capitol Records, the EMI-affiliated company which has rejected U.S. rights to every Beatles record offered so far, finally rush-releases "I Want to Hold Your Hand" b/w "I Saw Her Standing There." Within five weeks, it will hit Number One.
The Beatles started a three week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 1964 with "I Feel Fine." It was the group's 6th #1 of the year in which they had 30 entries on the chart, giving them a total of 18 weeks at the top of the charts.
In 1964, after a year of being criticized for their long hair, the Rolling Stones took out an ad in the New Musical Express wishing “starving hairdressers and their families a Happy Christmas.”
The Jimi Hendrix Experience played an afternoon show at The Uppercut Club, London in 1966. Hendrix also wrote the lyrics to Purple Haze in the dressing room on the same day.
In 1967, BBC Television broadcast The Beatles' movie ‘Magical Mystery Tour’ in black and white. The next day, the British press and the viewing public pronounce the film an utter disaster. The negative reaction was so strong that a US television deal for broadcasting the movie was cancelled.
Led Zeppelin started their first North American tour in 1968, supporting Vanilla Fudge and Spirit at Denver Auditorium, Colorado, tickets for this Sunday night gig cost $5.
George Harrison started a four week run at #1 on the US singles chart with "My Sweet Lord," making him the first Beatle to score a #1 US hit. The song was originally intended for Billy Preston.
"John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band," Lennon’s debut album as a solo artist, entered the album charts in 1970. This stark, confessional recording is regarded by many as his greatest achievement.
In 1979, the first night of a series of concerts were held at The Hammersmith Odeon in London for the People of Kampuchea, featuring Queen, The Clash, The Pretenders, The Who, Elvis Costello, Wings, and many more artists. The events, which were organised by Paul McCartney and Kurt Waldheim, were aimed to raise money for the victims of war-torn Cambodia.
AC/DC started a three-week run at #1 on the US album chart in 1981 with 'For Those About To Rock We Salute You'.
Notorious BIG was at #1 on the US album chart in 1999 with "Born Again."
2Pac went to #1 on the US album chart in 2004 with "Loyal To The Game."
Thursday, December 24, 2009
This Date In Music History-December 24
Birthdays:
Lemmy Kilmister (Lemmy) - Hawkwind, Motorhead (1945)
Jan Akkerman - Focus (1946)
Blues-rock guitarist George Thorogood (1950)
Ian Burden - Human League (1957)
Mary Ramsey - 10,000 Maniacs (1963)
Ricky Martin (real name Enrique Martin Morales) - Latin music star and former lead singer of Menudo (1971)
They Are Missed:
The late Lee Dorsey ("Working In The Coal Mine") was born in 1924 (died December 1, 1986)
In 1954, Johnny Ace shot himself dead backstage at the City Auditorium in Houston, Texas. The R&B singer was playing with a revolver during a break between sets, someone in the room said ‘Be careful with that thing…’ and he said ‘It’s OK the gun’s not loaded…see?’ and pointed it at himself with a smile on his face.
Zeke Carey of The Flamingos died in 1999. Had the 1959 #11 single "I Only Have Eyes For You."
Four Seasons bassist Nick Massi died of cancer in 2000. They scored the 1976 UK & US #1 single "December 1963, Oh What A Night," as well as hits with "Sherry," and "Rag Doll," among others.
History:
In 1906, Reginald A. Fessenden became the first person to broadcast a music program over radio, from Brant Rock, MA.
Enrico Caruso gave his last public performance, when he sang in Jacques Halevy's "La Juive" at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in 1920.
In 1951, Gian Carlo Menotti's "Amahl and the Night Visitors," was first broadcast by NBC. It was the first opera written specifically for television.
Bobby Darin recorded "Beyond The Sea" in 1958.
In 1960, the Philadelphia Orphan's Court raises Chubby Checker's (real name Ernest Evans) weekly allowance from $150 to $200. The 19 year old singer has already put three songs, "The Class," "The Twist" and "The Hucklebuck," in the pop Top Forty.
In 1961, "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" becomes the first African song to hit #1 on the US pop chart. The American version, recorded by the Tokens, is a translation of a South African folk song known as "Mbube" and "Wimoweh."
The Beatles earned yet another gold record in 1965 for the album Rubber Soul, just two-and-a-half weeks after its release. The record, which includes, "I've Just Seen A Face," "Norwegian Wood," "Girl," "Michelle," "In My Life" and "You Won't See Me," is seen by critics as a turning point in their career, marking their progression to a more serious brand of pop music.
In 1966, Tommy James & the Shondells recorded "I Think We're Alone Now," which will become a huge "bubble gum" hit. It peaks at #4 in its seventeen weeks on the chart and is one of the group's seven Top Ten hits.
A 1972 concert by Manfred Mann and His Earth Band was cut short by Miami police, sparking a two hour riot by students at the University of Miami. Since residents complained about the group's volume, the power to the P.A. was cut during the encore. As the battle rages, Mann and the band hide in a dressing room.
James Taylor, Carly Simon, Linda Rondstadt and Joni Mitchell were spotted crooning Christmas carols around the streets of Los Angeles in 1974.
The Bee Gees started a three week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 1977 with "How Deep Is Your Love," the group's 4th US #1. It stayed in the top 10 for 17 weeks giving it the longest chart run in history.
Also in 1977, the Sex Pistols played their last ever UK gig, (until 1996), before splitting, at Ivanhoes in Huddersfield. It was a charity performance before an audience of mainly children.
Anita Baker started a four-week run at #1 on the US album chart in 1988 with "Giving You The Best That I Got."
Poison started a three-week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 1988 with "Every Rose Has Its Thorn."
In 1988, Nirvana started recording their first album 'Bleach' using a $600 loan from an old school friend.
Pearl Jam went to #1 on the US album chart in 1994 with "Vitalogy."
The Gin Blossoms called it quits in 1997 although the group reformed a few years later.
In 2003, Jack White of The White Stripes turned himself in to Detroit police to face aggravated assault charges stemming from a bar room altercation in which he allegedly attacked Jason Stollsteimer of The Von Bondies. White was also fingerprinted and formally booked on the charges before he was released on bail.
In 2005, Rapper Foxy Brown was handcuffed and threatened with jail after she stuck her tongue out at a New York judge who asked her to stop chewing gum. Judge Melissa Jackson told the singer, she had showed disrespect to the court. Brown was in court on charges of assaulting two nail salon workers during a row over payment.
Lemmy Kilmister (Lemmy) - Hawkwind, Motorhead (1945)
Jan Akkerman - Focus (1946)
Blues-rock guitarist George Thorogood (1950)
Ian Burden - Human League (1957)
Mary Ramsey - 10,000 Maniacs (1963)
Ricky Martin (real name Enrique Martin Morales) - Latin music star and former lead singer of Menudo (1971)
They Are Missed:
The late Lee Dorsey ("Working In The Coal Mine") was born in 1924 (died December 1, 1986)
In 1954, Johnny Ace shot himself dead backstage at the City Auditorium in Houston, Texas. The R&B singer was playing with a revolver during a break between sets, someone in the room said ‘Be careful with that thing…’ and he said ‘It’s OK the gun’s not loaded…see?’ and pointed it at himself with a smile on his face.
Zeke Carey of The Flamingos died in 1999. Had the 1959 #11 single "I Only Have Eyes For You."
Four Seasons bassist Nick Massi died of cancer in 2000. They scored the 1976 UK & US #1 single "December 1963, Oh What A Night," as well as hits with "Sherry," and "Rag Doll," among others.
History:
In 1906, Reginald A. Fessenden became the first person to broadcast a music program over radio, from Brant Rock, MA.
Enrico Caruso gave his last public performance, when he sang in Jacques Halevy's "La Juive" at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in 1920.
In 1951, Gian Carlo Menotti's "Amahl and the Night Visitors," was first broadcast by NBC. It was the first opera written specifically for television.
Bobby Darin recorded "Beyond The Sea" in 1958.
In 1960, the Philadelphia Orphan's Court raises Chubby Checker's (real name Ernest Evans) weekly allowance from $150 to $200. The 19 year old singer has already put three songs, "The Class," "The Twist" and "The Hucklebuck," in the pop Top Forty.
In 1961, "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" becomes the first African song to hit #1 on the US pop chart. The American version, recorded by the Tokens, is a translation of a South African folk song known as "Mbube" and "Wimoweh."
The Beatles earned yet another gold record in 1965 for the album Rubber Soul, just two-and-a-half weeks after its release. The record, which includes, "I've Just Seen A Face," "Norwegian Wood," "Girl," "Michelle," "In My Life" and "You Won't See Me," is seen by critics as a turning point in their career, marking their progression to a more serious brand of pop music.
In 1966, Tommy James & the Shondells recorded "I Think We're Alone Now," which will become a huge "bubble gum" hit. It peaks at #4 in its seventeen weeks on the chart and is one of the group's seven Top Ten hits.
A 1972 concert by Manfred Mann and His Earth Band was cut short by Miami police, sparking a two hour riot by students at the University of Miami. Since residents complained about the group's volume, the power to the P.A. was cut during the encore. As the battle rages, Mann and the band hide in a dressing room.
James Taylor, Carly Simon, Linda Rondstadt and Joni Mitchell were spotted crooning Christmas carols around the streets of Los Angeles in 1974.
The Bee Gees started a three week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 1977 with "How Deep Is Your Love," the group's 4th US #1. It stayed in the top 10 for 17 weeks giving it the longest chart run in history.
Also in 1977, the Sex Pistols played their last ever UK gig, (until 1996), before splitting, at Ivanhoes in Huddersfield. It was a charity performance before an audience of mainly children.
Anita Baker started a four-week run at #1 on the US album chart in 1988 with "Giving You The Best That I Got."
Poison started a three-week run at #1 on the US singles chart in 1988 with "Every Rose Has Its Thorn."
In 1988, Nirvana started recording their first album 'Bleach' using a $600 loan from an old school friend.
Pearl Jam went to #1 on the US album chart in 1994 with "Vitalogy."
The Gin Blossoms called it quits in 1997 although the group reformed a few years later.
In 2003, Jack White of The White Stripes turned himself in to Detroit police to face aggravated assault charges stemming from a bar room altercation in which he allegedly attacked Jason Stollsteimer of The Von Bondies. White was also fingerprinted and formally booked on the charges before he was released on bail.
In 2005, Rapper Foxy Brown was handcuffed and threatened with jail after she stuck her tongue out at a New York judge who asked her to stop chewing gum. Judge Melissa Jackson told the singer, she had showed disrespect to the court. Brown was in court on charges of assaulting two nail salon workers during a row over payment.
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