Rock And Blues International - April 2024

Rock And Blues International

Sue Foley

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

I Shot A Man

Social Distortion

Bad Religion

Joe Bonamassa Warren Haynes and more!

Rock And Blues International

April 2024

Hello Rock And Blues International readers. I hope everybody had a great January. Welcome to 2024. I hope and pray that everybody has a better year than last year. Each year should always be better than the last.

Rock And Blues is happy to announce that we have now entered the era of Podcasts. We would really like you to check out our new Podcast Channel - Rock And Blues International - The Podcast. If you like the interviews we feature in our publication, then you will love our Podcast Channel as we feature those interviews in their entirety there. On our Podcast Channel you can actually hear those interviews as they were originally done. This month our newest podcast features JJ Gray. Our special guests so far are the Tinsley Ellis, Biff Byford, Chris O’Leary, Paul Reed Smith, Honey Island Swamp Band, Paul Reed Smith, Bob Margolin, Don Dokken, Foghat (Scott Holt), Puddle Of Mudd (Wes Scantlin), The Blackburn Brothers, Coco Montoya, Barry Kerch from Shinedown, Jerry Shirley from Humble Pie, Jim Stapley from Humble Pie Legacy, Kissing Judas, Nick Moss, Devon Allman, Stevie D. from Buckcherry, Chris Henderson from 3 Doors Down, Garnet Grimm from Savoy Brown, Phil Lewis from L.A. Guns, Graham Russell from Air Supply, Robert Jon from Robert Jon and The Wreck, Selwyn Burchwood, J.W. Jones, Chris Henderson from 3 Doors Down, and Warren Haynes from Gov’t Mule. Future podcasts include JJ Grey, and Martin Barre from Jethro Tull. You can check it out on all the major podcast channels as well as at our website at http//www.rockandbluesinternational.com. We hope you enjoy them.

And now on to the April issue of Rock And Blues International. On the cover of this issue you can see Sue Foley. Sue Foley has a new album titled One Guitar Woman. In this issue Sue tells us all about her new album. I can hardly wait for you to hear the podcast later this month. It was a fantastic interview She really gives us a lot of great insight into this new gem of an album. We’ve also got a great story by Edoardo Fassio about I Shot A Man and their new album Dues. Be sure to check that one out too, it’s very interesting. There are also stories on Jontavious Willis, Asking Alexandria, Social Distortion and Bad Religion, Joe Satriani and Steve Vai, Idles, The Alarm, Don Was, Vicious Rumors, Drive-By Truckers, Joe Bonamassa, Warren Haynes, Swans, Wind Rose, Bonzie, Kate Nash, Dave Stewart, Blue Oyster Cult, Brucke Dickingson, Pearl Jam, and more! As you can see, there are a lot of varied genres of music here for you to check out, or as we like to say, there’s a little of something for everyone here. We have even included the current installment of the novella, “The Biker”. Read it and than email us back with your thoughts on this. So far our readers seem to really like this Blues loving Biker.

I sincerely hope that everybody reading this publication finds something here that they like and I would like to encourage you to let your friends and colleagues know about us. Just look for us every month at http://www.rockandbluesinternational.com. I would also like to encourage you to email us for a free subscription to Rock And Blues International as well. Just email us at rockandbluesinternational@gmail.com and in the subject line simply put “Sign Me Up” and we’ll email you a link to the magazine each month when it is published.

Kevin Wildman Editor and Publisher

Rock And Blues International

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Sue Foley

Foley Releases Her

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Asking Alexandria

Asking Alexandria Perform At The House Of Blues April 13

Page 18

Page 38

Joe Bonamassa

Joe Bonamassa Releases Poignant New Single “The Last Matador Of Bayonne” from “Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra”

I Shot A Man

Sue

New Acoustic Album One Guitar Woman

Edoard Fassio talks about that great band fron Turin, I Shot A Man and their new album releasee Dues.

Sue Foley

Sue Foley Releases Her New Acoustic Album One Guitar Woman

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By Kevin Wildman

Renowned blues artist Sue Foley is set to take listeners on a heartfelt journey through the annals of music history with her latest release, “One Guitar Woman.” This acoustic odyssey, a poignant tribute to the pioneering women of the guitar, showcases Foley’s unparalleled talents as a vocalist, guitarist, and storyteller.

Drawing inspiration from the fearless and visionary female musicians who shaped the landscape of guitar music, Foley’s “One Guitar Woman” is a celebration of diversity, resilience, and raw talent. From the soulful melodies of Elizabeth Cotten to the electrifying rhythms of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Foley weaves together a tapestry of musical styles and influences that pay homage to these iconic figures.

“One Guitar Woman” is not merely an album; it is a deeply personal exploration of the lives and legacies of these trailblazing women. In her liner notes, Foley reflects, “They were massively talented, and they all possessed courage and vision which transformed both their cultures and the story of the guitar.”

At the heart of the album lies Foley’s masterful guitar work, showcased on a single instrument throughout the record—a flamenco Blanca guitar crafted by master luthier Salvador Castillo. This deliberate choice underscores the album’s focus on the raw, unadorned beauty of the guitar and the profound impact these women had on its evolution.

The debut single, “Oh Babe It Ain’t No Lie,” originally penned by Elizabeth Cotten, sets the stage for the musical journey that unfolds. With delicate precision, Foley captures the essence of Cotten’s timeless classic, infusing it with her own unique style and vibrant vocals. Reflecting on the song, Foley shares, “‘Oh Babe It Ain’t No Lie’ is one of my favorite songs to play on guitar... Cotten had an original guitar style... Her songs can be challenging to learn but they’re always so fun and satisfying when you figure them out.”

“One Guitar Woman” features a diverse array of tracks, each honoring a different female guitar pioneer. From the hard-driving blues of Memphis Minnie

to the intricate fingerpicking of Maybelle Carter, Foley’s reverence for her predecessors shines through in every note. The album also includes Foley’s original composition, “Maybelle’s Guitar,” a heartfelt tribute to the Carter Family’s enduring legacy.

In addition to these iconic figures, Foley shines a spotlight on lesser-known yet equally compelling artists such as Southern blues women Geeshie Wiley and Elvie Thomas. The album’s two instrumentals, “Romance in A Minor” and “La Malagueña,” showcase Foley’s virtuosity and versatility as a guitarist, paying homage to the classical and flamenco influences that have shaped her musical journey.

Scheduled for worldwide release on March 29, 2024, via Stony Plain Records, “One Guitar Woman” promises to be a landmark album in Foley’s illustrious career. Fans can expect a captivating blend of storytelling, virtuoso guitar performances, and the timeless spirit of the women who paved the way.

To coincide with the album’s release, Sue Foley will debut her “One Guitar Woman” solo show, a multimedia celebration of female guitar pioneers. Audiences can look forward to an

unforgettable evening of music, history, and empowerment as Foley shares the inspiring stories of these remarkable women.

With thirteen albums under her belt and numerous accolades, including multiple Blues Music Awards, Foley continues to captivate audiences with her raw talent and unwavering passion for the blues. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of “One Guitar Woman” as Sue Foley takes listeners on a soul-stirring journey through the heart of music history.

Sue Foley’s Previous Album:

“Sue Foley: Live in Austin Vol.1”

Recorded live at the legendary Continental Club in Austin, Texas, “Sue Foley: Live in Austin Vol.1” captures the raw energy and soulful performances that have defined Foley’s career. This electrifying album showcases Foley’s early hits, deep covers, and surprises, offering listeners a glimpse into her musical evolution.

Foley’s journey to the top of the blues world began in Austin in 1991, where she quickly made a name for herself among legendary Texas guitar

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players. With “Live in Austin Vol.1,” fans can experience the grit, sweat, and devastating guitar playing that have become synonymous with Foley’s performances.

The album’s release coincided with Foley being honored with the Blues Music Award for Traditional Blues Artist (Koko Taylor Award) in 2022, solidifying her status as a true blues icon. From her early days playing to packed clubs to her recent accolades, “Sue Foley: Live in Austin Vol.1” is a testament to Foley’s enduring talent and undeniable passion for the blues.

“One Guitar Woman” will be available on all major streaming platforms and can be pre-ordered now. For more information, visit Sue Foley’s official website and follow her on social media for updates on tour dates and releases.

About Sue Foley: Sue Foley is an award-winning blues artist known for her powerful vocals and masterful guitar playing. With thirteen albums to her

name, including the critically acclaimed “Pinky’s Blues,” Foley continues to push the boundaries of the blues genre while honoring its rich history. Her latest album, “One Guitar Woman,” is a heartfelt tribute to the female pioneers of guitar and is set to be released on March 29, 2024. For more information, visit [www.suefoley.com].

We had a chance to sit down with Sue Foley recently and she really opened up about the album and her inspirations behind it. Sue was very revealing and candid about the album and it’s really a great interview and we’re happy to present it for your reading pleasure right here, so just sit back and start reading right now.

Rock And Blues International: Hello.

Sue Foley: Hello, Kevin.

Rock And Blues International: Yes.

Sue Foley: It’s Sue.

Rock And Blues International: Hi there. How are you doing today?

Sue Foley: I’m doing great. You sound good.

Rock And Blues International: Oh, I’m trying to do my best. Where are you right now?

Sue Foley: I’m up in Cobourg, Ontario.

Rock And Blues International: Oh, that’s right. You’ve got a gig tonight.

Sue Foley: Uh Huh.

Rock And Blues International: Well, I’m down here. Where am I? I live outside Houston.

Rock And Blues International: Oh, great.

Rock And Blues International: Yeah.

Sue Foley: I love Houston.

Rock And Blues International: Yeah, it looks like we’re a couple of transplanted Canadians. I was born in St. John’s, Newfoundland.

Sue Foley: Oh, you’re a Newfie.

Sue Foley: Yeah.

Sue Foley: How nice. I was just on the phone with a Newfie. That’s why I’m a couple minutes late.

Rock And Blues International: Oh, Okay.

Sue Foley: Yeah.

Rock And Blues International: Another interview?

Sue Foley: Actually it’s a guy that’s doing our video. Jordan Craig, but his dad is a famous Newfie artist. Philip Craig, do you know him?

Rock And Blues International: No, I don’t.

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Sue Foley: He’s a famous painter. Yeah. Phillip Craig. Yeah. Another Newfie.

Rock And Blues International: Well, are you a Texan now, since you’ve been living here so long or are you still a Canadian?

Sue Foley: I’m both. You know, when I come home, I’m definitely... I feel like I’m home. You know.

Rock And Blues International: Yeah.

Sue Foley: But when I’m in Texas, I feel at home too. So.

Rock And Blues International: Yeah, I get it all the time. “You sound like you’re from the North.”

Sue Foley: Well..

Rock And Blues International: You hate to tell him, you know, but it’s an interesting situation at times. So you’ve got a new album out. And I, I’ve been listening to it and I love it. It’s quite a departure from playing guitar on a telly to playing a flamenco guitar.

Sue Foley: It sure is, but they they do complement each other. But it’s a different instrument completely.

Rock And Blues International: The neck’s a bit wider too, right.

Sue Foley: The neck’s a lot wider, I mean, the approaches are different. I mean, acoustic to electric is like a different instrument. But a nylon string is so specific as well. So yeah.

Rock And Blues International: What made you go to Salvador to get your instrument?

Sue Foley: Well, I ended up there, I had always wanted to go to Paracho, to Paracho, Mexico. It’s a town of Luthiers. And it’s always been like a fantasy for me for years. And I finally... I thought when we were going to be recording this album, I thought I gotta get the instru-

ment. I knew I was going to do it on nylon string, but I wanted a new one because the one I’d been playing was a student model. So I wanted a really good one. And you can go down to Paracho and get those fine hand quality handcrafted instruments for a fraction of the cost of it would cost in Spain. Let’s put it that way. And they’re just as good. So I went down there and I went to a bunch of builders and this is the one I settled on, Salvador Castillo. I met him, I heard him play. I mean, he was so great. But there’s all kinds of wonderful builders down there.

Rock And Blues International: Well, it’s got a beautiful sound to it. Beautiful tones to it. Did you get the Cocobolo back and sides, or did you get the Palo Escrito back and sides?

Sue Foley: Oh, geez. My thing might be Cocobolo.

Rock And Blues International: Oh, okay.

Sue Foley: Yeah, I think it might be, I think he might have said that on the video I have. I did video when he was talking about the woods.

Rock And Blues International: Well, that’s like the top of the line right there.

Sue Foley: Uh huh.

Rock And Blues International: Yeah, it sounds beautiful. And well, I find this album to be quite a departure

from what I’ve heard you do before. I haven’t heard everything that you’ve done before, but I’ve heard a few things and it just seems like quite a departure. So why the journey?

Sue Foley: Well I’ve been doing this a long time and studying the work of women guitar players. So I started an interview process in like 2001 with my fellow female guitarists. And then when I wanted to actually implement something of that project into something I could play I chose pioneering women guitar players because I’m a traditional artist at heart. You know, I really love stuff. Early stuff, I love Memphis Minnie, I love 1930s and pre war blues. So that’s just kind of what spoke to me. I thought like that I could pull off musically. Yeah.

Rock And Blues International: Okay, well, I noticed that some of your influences seemed to come from Houston here.

Sue Foley: Yeah Elvie Thomas, right. She’s from Houston. I don’t know a lot about her. But I know they did. They did interview her. Mack McCormack interviewed her. Are you familiar with that?

Rock And Blues International: No, I’m not.

Sue Foley: So he was a researcher and he’s the one that actually found her but you know, not much is known about Elvie Thomas and Geeshie Wiley.

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They’re not sure she was from Texas, but it’s...

Rock And Blues International: It’s a speculation there. She did. It seems like she did a whole lot with with Geeshie Wiley.

Sue Foley: Yeah, I think they traveled together but I don’t think Geeshie was her real name first of all, and then she wasn’t from Texas, I don’t think... very mysterious couple.

Rock And Blues International: Oh, yeah.

Sue Foley: Yeah.

Rock And Blues International: Well, they recorded a little bit together.

Sue Foley: They did, they did six sides together. Total.

Rock And Blues International: Well, let’s start off at the beginning.

Elizabeth Cotton. You’ve got a couple of songs on here but you start the album out with “Oh Babe, It Ain’t No Lie”. What brought you to that song?

Sue Foley: That song? I just I love her guitar style. Well, I picked that song because it’s really fun to play it basically. I really like it. I love her song “Freight Train”, which I also put on the album, which is basically her seminal piece. Everybody kind of knows “Freight Train”. It’s a great guitar piece. And it’s a great song by the way, but “Oh Baby, It Ain’t No Lie” is lesser known and really fun to play. I think I love that. I love her lyrics. Like she’s very witty... witty and kind of off the cuff. And funny. And then the lyricalness of her styles. So yeah, I love Elizabeth cotton.

Rock And Blues International: All right. And the next song on there “In My Girlish Days” by a Little Son Joe here. That was an interesting choice too, to hear on this.

Sue Foley: So, but you say by Little Son Joe, but it’s a Memphis Minnie.

Rock And Blues International: Is it, “In My Girlish Days” Well, he wrote it? Well, he wrote the song I thought.

Sue Foley: Well, they say he wrote it. But did he write it? We don’t know. I’m gonna just, I’m gonna dispute that.

Rock And Blues International: Well, it’s a strange song to be written by a guy.

Sue Foley: It’s a strange song to be written by a guy plus its her story. So if he wrote it, it was about her. So, and I picked that song because it sort of tells, I would say with Memphis Minnie we don’t know who wrote what songs because they’re all attributed to her husbands. But so there’s so many really personal ones. And this one, just from what accounts I’ve heard about her life, this sounds like a life story kind of song. You know, I went here I went there. I ran away from home. I didn’t know any better, you know.

Rock And Blues International: Right.

Sue Foley: It was just, it’s very kind of self.... what do I want to say.... revealing, I guess. So that’s why I picked that song. And it’s funny that you would say it’s a Little Son Joe song. I just thought that was interesting.

Rock And Blues International: Well, I always check to see who the songs are written by.

Sue Foley: It does say he wrote it, it’s Lawlars. Right, Ernest Lawlars?

Rock And Blues International: Yeah, yeah, yes it does. But you know, things like this. “In my girlish days, my My mama cried, Papa did too. Oh daughter look what a shame on you.” That just doesn’t sound like something that a guy would write.

Sue Foley: It doesn’t sound like... exactly. So yeah, I think there’s definitely some thought just to put into that. But yeah, I picked that. I assumed she

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wrote it. But yeah, when you look up the publishing it’s under his name.

Rock And Blues International: Right,

Sue Foley: Yeah, and he was her husband. So you know, they work together. She may have just had... all the songs may be under his name that were written by both of them or whoever at the time. There’s no really way to, to validate it either way.

Rock And Blues International: Well, they may have collaborated on it. You never know. He may have. He may have picked the notes while she sang the music.

Sue Foley: Yeah, no doubt. So yeah, she’s my favorite artist of all time. I just find her story fascinating, you know, and she’s really...

Rock And Blues International: She’s been covered by a lot of people over the years even Led Zeppelin did one of her songs.

Sue Foley: I know “When The Levee Breaks”. Now that one might be written by her first husband. Joe McCoy, “When The Levee Breaks”, but it is still Memphis you know, it’s listed under Memphis Minnie when you go look it up. So, so cool. Yeah, she’s, she’s super cool artist, way ahead of her time and when I was first starting out in blues, she’s sort of my icon, you know, just the first woman, lead blues guitar player I’ve ever heard.

Rock And Blues International: Okay, well, you also do “Nothing in Rambling” by Minnie also.

Sue Foley: Yeah. And I’ve recorded other songs by Minnie. I’ve been doing her songs at my shows since I was 16. I can’t love her enough. You know, I know a lot of her songs, but I picked these two. I thought they were really fun. I thought the one “In My Girlish Days” just sort of told a little bit of her background and then “Ain’t Nothin’” and “Rambling” are just fun guitar pieces.

It’s got a nice, structured guitar part that was really fun to learn. Yeah.

Rock And Blues International: All right. Well, “Lonesome Homesick Blues”. That’s been covered by a number of people too, a Bill Carter song.

Sue Foley: Yeah, that’s a good one. And that’s the one that Maybelle wrote. She played and basically a solo piece, I think. It took me a while to figure out the guitar part on that one, it was a bit of a challenge. It’s not her Carter scratch. It’s a flat picking technique she used on that one. So that was a surprise. But I love that song. I love the words. They resonate with me. I’m always a little bit homesick even though I’m, you know, when you’re on the road, and you’re a musician, you kind of always relate to that.

Rock And Blues International: Well, when you picked out the songs, and you started learning them to play, I don’t know how long ago you may have been doing that. But at any rate, what did you learn about your guitar playing ability when you started on something new, like you talk about the flat picking style?

Sue Foley: Well, it’s not what I learned about my playing, but I learned how to expand my playing because there’s so many styles of guitar on this album. So it’s taken. This is a study that didn’t happen overnight. I feel really comfortable with the material now, but it took me a long time to learn. Some of these techniques like the Carter scratch

was really... took me a few years. You always think a few years? Yeah. Some of them I’ve been working on for nine or 10 years.

Rock And Blues International: Some of the songs here?

Sue Foley: Yeah. And some of the, like the guitar techniques I’ve been working on for 20 years.

Rock And Blues International: Well, you said you started playing when you were 16. And you mentioned Memphis Minnie and so you started your journey on this at a pretty early age. So I’m sure that was a lot of learning there.

Sue Foley: Yeah, it is kind of a lifetime of learning. And still, I think what’s rewarding about this project is that I really focused on this for the last few years. So I’ve really learned a lot in guitar, which has been really fun and expanded what and the other thing that’s cool about it is coming out all these other styles from a blues players perspective is probably the best place to come at them from because blues somehow just really applies itself to almost any genre like country, jazz, even the Latin styles. There’s something about learning how to play guitar as a blues artist and some of the fundamental things that you learn that go into all kinds of music genres, and it’s in a really good way. So that was helpful. But I definitely learned new styles like Spanish guitar, classical techniques, and the Carter Scratch is

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completely different, you know, finger picking. It’s all different.

Rock And Blues International: Well, the Blues transcends everything. Yeah, no matter what you listen to, sooner or later you hear still hear a little bit of Blues in it.

Sue Foley: That’s true. So it’s a great foundational grounding place to learn any music from because once you learn that you can move into rock, you can move into jazz, you can you know what I mean? It doesn’t necessarily go the other way as easily. I mean, I think you can learn rock and go into blues for sure.

Rock And Blues International: What helps if you start out on blues and then go into rock.

Sue Foley: It doe, it’s really a different thing.

Rock And Blues International: That’s pretty much what the English, the English people did. They picked up all these old blues albums and turned them into rock songs.

Sue Foley: Yeah, and from jazz players perspective, the same like you could learn jazz and then try to play blues, but you won’t necessarily be able to play blues just because you can play jazz. It’s weird.

Rock And Blues International: Well, I find I have a little trouble listening to jazz. It’s just some some of the movements in jazz are just a little too much for me, but I love the blues.

Sue Foley: Yeah, cool.

Rock And Blues International: Well on “Mal Hombre, you did the Lydia Mendoza song. You kind of changed that up a bit and added a couple of verses to it.

Sue Foley: Yeah, I reworked the song, I rewrote the two verses in English because I felt like that’s more honest for me than trying to sing a whole verse in Spanish. I don’t think I could emotionally express it as well, because it’s not my mother tongue. But I did keep the chorus in Spanish because the chorus is such an important part of the piece. It’s so perfect. And then I added a guitar solo. I kind of reworked it. She sang it high, I sing it low. So yeah, there’s just a bit of different juxtaposition to what I took. With each of these songs, some of them I could do them almost verbatim and some I had to reimagine them so they reflect who I am.

Rock And Blues International: Well, I love your treatment on the song. I just love the arrangement you’ve done here.

Sue Foley: Oh, good. I appreciate that, I appreciate the feedback.

Rock And Blues International: All right, “Motherless Child Blues”. That’s when you went into Elvie Thomas So what drew you to Elvie Thomas?

Sue Foley: You know, I’ve had the her songs and Geeshie Wiley songs on different compilation albums over the years and they always stand out to me and “Motherless Child Blues” I latched on to right away. I love those lyrics. I love the form of it. It’s not going to sound like any other song and that it’s the same with “Last Kind Word Blues from Geeshie. They’re both very unique approaches. And yeah, I just love these two ladies. They’re mysterious, but they recorded only a half a dozen songs, but their songs are just so cool.

Rock And Blues International: So what drew you to them, the mystery in the musicians or the fact that they only did six songs.

Sue Foley: Oh yeah, just the whole thing. The whole lore, the whole lore about their lives, a mysterious part, but also really it’s the strength of those two songs more than anything because I wouldn’t say Geeshie and Elvie are super influential, like as influential as someone like a Maybelle Carter let’s say, but I just thought it was... I’m a blues artists so

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those songs resonated with me.

Rock And Blues International: All right. And then the middle of the album, we wind up with Paganini.

Sue Foley: Yeah.

Rock And Blues International: How did that happen. You’ve got all these blues artists and I never thought of Paganini as a blues artist, but you somewhat draw that out of the song there.

Sue Foley: Well, there you go. So that’s what that’s an example of how playing blues can help you. And that song I just felt like I could get my... I just felt like I could do it. I could pull it off more other than a really structured classical piece. This one has sort of an open time. So I don’t have to. I’m not structured meter-wise with it. And I found the movements very bluesy. Several spots just resonate with me as a blues artist like I could just kind of expand on this like right here. You know what I mean?

Rock And Blues International: Right.

Sue Foley: So I felt like I could get inside that one.

Rock And Blues International: Well, I love the way you did it.

Sue Foley: Thank you.

Rock And Blues International: I hear these rock guitarists do Paganini. It’s 200 miles an hour the way they’re playing it. I mean, they just go crazy when they do Paganini. You’ve probably heard a couple of those.

Sue Foley: Probably. Yeah. I’m not a speed person. I’m more about feel.

Rock And Blues International: Yeah, I’m not either. “My Journey To The Sky” by Rosetta Tharpe. I thought that was great that you that had on there. And so while we’re talking about that song, let me turn you on to her new

album. She has a new album out “Sister Rosetta Tharpe Live in France”, a 1966 concert that’s just been unearthed.

Sue Foley: Wow, how cool. Was it a group or solo.

Rock And Blues International: Actually, it just came in the mail and I haven’t even heard it yet. I got it yesterday. And I was looking at things. Wow, this is just interesting. Live, it is the complete 1966 concert in at Limoges, France and I have the feeling that she may be alone because it only lists guitar and vocals on here.

Sue Foley: Okay, because I saw some video of her solo in France. So I’m wondering if that’s similar.

Rock And Blues International: Quite possible. Quite possible. So what made you pick that one?

Sue Foley: I just like it. That one was just I just liked it. And it’s, you know, I didn’t. It doesn’t really represent her guitar style or you know, and it’s really the original. It’s her and Marie Knight and it’s mostly piano and I just liked the song. It’s always stayed with me. I had a cassette tape of hers from when I was a teenager. And that song has just always stayed with me. So I thought well, I want to do that one.

Rock And Blues International: Okay. Well, let’s talk about “Maybelle’s Guitar”. Now you wrote that one.

Sue Foley: I did.

Rock And Blues International: So most of the songs on here, almost all of

them are by different artists that you’ve arranged and done quite a good job on it. But I love “Maybelle’s Guitar”. It’s a really nice and fun story.

Sue Foley: Oh, thanks. Yeah, I wanted to tell the story of the Carter family and her guitar and a little bit about her legacy, while also playing her Carter scratch and referencing the Wildwood flower. So musically, it reflects her as well. So it’s a very intentional song to write, I don’t write a lot of songs like that, where you actually have to think of somebody’s story. And it’s like, almost like a ballad, you know, very out of my box. But there’s something about the Carter scratch and playing that and telling a little story that seemed to work. And I love her so much. She’s such a, an important figure, a compelling figure and a great artist.

Rock And Blues International: Right. Well, Johnny Cash says he learned more from Maybelle Carter than he learned from anybody else in the music business.

Sue Foley: There you go. I mean, I think that is amazing. Like, think about that. All the people he knew, all the people he played with. And his favorite was Maybelle. That’s amazing.

Rock And Blues International: Yeah.

Sue Foley: Yeah.

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Rock And Blues International: So tell me how you came up with the words. How were you trying to tell the story here?

Sue Foley: Um, well tell the story because it’s called “Maybelle’s Guitar”. So it’s sort of from the perspective of the guitar. Like it launched a million dreams, it saved a million souls. That’s, it’s the sound of that guitar, you know. “The sound of her guitar brings us all back home”, I say in it. It’s just kind of like this and then I talk about XERA Radio. I was just trying to tell the story based around the guitar in a way and the sound of her guitar that people latched on to and how and how much of an impact that had culturally, how many people are influenced and the fact that there was on border radio and it broadcasted just all over North America, the impact of border radio and in the history of the Carter family. Yeah, it’s kind of like that. I mean, I didn’t really... that’s sort of what I was trying to convey and it’s hard to do that. There’s actually two more verses to that song. We didn’t use them all, because there was more to say, but our producer Mike Flanagan just thought, well, let’s keep it short and really punchy, but there’s a lot to say about her guitar. She’s an important figure.

Rock And Blues International: Right, and let’s see, “Freight Train” is up next. We pretty much talked about that.

That was Elizabeth Cotton’s probably signature song of all time.

Sue Foley: Yeah, it was.

Rock And Blues International: God knows how many times that thing’s been redone.

Sue Foley: Redone and how many times that’s been sung at Hootenanny’s and around campfires and, you know, places where it wasn’t even recorded. That’s it. Big song.

Rock And Blues International: And the next song is a Geeshie Wiley song. “Last Kind Words Blues”.

Sue Foley: Yeah, and that fits in you know, that goes along with the Elvie Thomas “Motherless Child Blues”. The two of them recorded those tracks together, switching off singing. But yeah, “Last Kind Words” has been covered by tons of artists. It’s a compelling song. It was featured in the Art Crumb documentary. I think that’s one of the first places people might have heard it, but he was fascinated by that song. It’s very haunting. It’s, it’s just got a vibe. And it’s, it’s because it’s got a minor chord in a major song. And it’s the contrast, if I went into the actual technicality of it, it’s that minor subdominant chord, the minor four chord that brings you into that haunting feel. But when you throw that into a song, it always says something but

it just that song just keeps doing it. And it’s just kind of lures you in, but then there’s, you know, the lyrics are very dark on it, for the most part.

Rock And Blues International: Well, Elvie, Elvie Thomas also played guitar on it too.

Sue Foley: Right. Yeah.

Rock And Blues International: So I think we got three, I think Geeshie accompanied herself on guitar, and then Thomas provided the additional guitar on there.

Sue Foley: Right. Right.

Rock And Blues International: And the last song on the album then “La Malaguena”,

Sue Foley: Right, as a tribute to Charo, the first woman I saw play guitar and the influence for Spanish guitar for me. She’s a great musician. I used a good part of her arrangement for the song. “La Malaguena” has been reimagined over and over. And she has her own spin on it. I really like what she’s done with the piece. It’s a big part of her show. So I just wanted to capture a little bit of that magic that Charo has and just kind of tribute her, how important she is. There’s not a lot of women that were really playing guitar when she came out. And she was really well known. She was on variety shows. She was all over the media and TV. And as a young girl, seeing her play really had a big impact on me.

Rock And Blues International: Oh, yeah, I remember seeing her playing.

Sue Foley: You know, she was really playing, she’s serious.

Rock And Blues International: I remember seeing her perform this song on TV quite a long, long time ago. I don’t think I’ve seen anything from her in the last 15-20 years.

Sue Foley: Well, she’s still touring.

Rock And Blues International: Well, she never seems to make it to Houston.

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Sue Foley: Well, yeah, I haven’t seen her live. But I follow her on social media and she’s out there playing her guitar. She loves to play guitar.

Rock And Blues International: I wish I’d learned to play flamenco guitar. I lived in Spain for six years. And back in the 60s I wanted to learn to play guitar and I talked to my parents. I said, Well, I want to learn to play guitar and they go well, great. That’s fine. I go good. I want to learn to play like the Beatles. Well, that didn’t go over too well. And they said, Well, we’re not going to help you play guitar. We’re not going to get you a guitar or anything unless you learn Flamenco guitar.

Sue Foley: Oh,.

Rock And Blues International: So I didn’t learn, not then, I didn’t learn...

Sue Foley: Opportunity missed.

Rock And Blues International: I didn’t learn till many years later and I was so stupid. You know when you’re a young kid about eight years old. You’re thinking you want to play the rock and roll, but you don’t think that regardless of what you’re doing, you still have to learn the basic notes. And I didn’t think about that. I could just picture myself, my parents dragging me out and go, ‘Oh, listen to our son play Flamenco” and I didn’t like the idea. In retrospect, if I had learned to play flamenco at eight years old, I would I would be a killer guitarist now, but...

Sue Foley: Oh my god, yeah.

Rock And Blues International: But it never happened.

Sue Foley: Oh, well. Too bad.

Rock And Blues International: Well, what else should we talk about on the album? What have I missed here? We’ve talked about the songs but I’m sure there’s more about this album that I haven’t touched on.

Sue Foley: Well, I mean, it’s, it’s a

labor of love. It’s kind of for me, it sort of reflective, like when you asked about how did I pick the songs and everything. All the pieces were picked, and the artists were chosen for specific reasons, but the songs too are. A lot of them reflect my own experience or what I relate to you know, so my story in a sense, so I tried to so it’s kind of personal and not personal at the same time.

Rock And Blues International: Personal and not personal.

Sue Foley: You know what I mean, it’s personal in the fact that I’m, I’m definitely inside the music. Like I feel connected to the music. It’s not just a study like, oh, here’s a here’s a song by this artist, here’s a song by this artist I chose songs that really reflect my journey too. So I think that’s an important part of covering people’s music is you need to be able to be them in a sense or rework it or reimagine it, but that’s definitely part of this and these women are all I find them all to be... not just because of the guitar or whatever, but they’re just unique people. You know, they could be they could have been doing anything and probably expressing themselves through it but the guitar was their vehicle and it really was compelling is who they were as people that they were able to get on these and have such an individual sort of vision for their lives and stuff and I find that’s really where the magic is for me.

Rock And Blues International: Okay, what else? Anything else we need to know about the album.

Sue Foley: Ah, no.

Rock And Blues International: Okay, well you have fans out there that have been listening to your other stuff. What do you think they may say when they hear this, because it is quite a departure from what you’ve been doing?

Sue Foley: I know, everybody’s really into it. I’ve never heard of anything but glowing appreciation because I’ve been doing this you know I break into this into my show, in the middle of my electric show all the time. I break it down and I’ll tribute these women and you know, do all that stuff and play these songs and people just freak out, so I think people are really happy. I think I think they enjoy seeing artists they love go in new directions and reinvent themselves. Yeah, I think it’s great.

Rock And Blues International: So what is next in store.

Sue Foley: Next is gigs tonight and tomorrow, back to Austin gigs and then doing album media for the next three weeks till the end of March till release and then by the end of April, I’m back on the road with my band. And we’re doing a hybrid show. So I’ll be splitting the night up in essence doing part “One Guitar Woman”, part electric. And then some shows are just all acoustic. It’s just a mix for the for the rest of the year. So just touring and stuff.

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Rock And Blues International: Well, you say some songs are all acoustic. How many of these songs wind up in the all acoustic show?

Sue Foley: All of them. I can play the whole album.

Rock And Blues International: Start to finish in order or do you bounce around?

Sue Foley: I bounce around a bit because there’s some thematic things I like to do.

Rock And Blues International: Well, I’d sure like to see that. Well. Let me know when you’re playing in Houston sometime so I can come and see you. I don’t make it out of town too often. I’m just stuck here all the time. Just can’t get away from the stupid computer.

Sue Foley: Oh my god. Well, we come to Houston a lot. So if you ever want to come to a show, let us know.

Rock And Blues International: Okay, I will. And again one more, one more time. Is there anything I haven’t asked that I should have asked, because I don’t want you going away saying, I can’t believe that guy didn’t ask me this.

Sue Foley: No, no, no, it’s all good.

Rock And Blues International: Are you sure.

Sue Foley: Yeah, Yeah.

Rock And Blues International: All right. Well, I want to thank you for the time. I really appreciate you talking to me about the album. I love the album. I think it’s wonderful. I love seeing a different side to artists all the time.

Sue Foley: Oh, good. Well, thank you. It’s really nice to get some feedback. So we’re excited about it. And I’ll be out there touring it for the next while.

Rock And Blues International: All right. Well, thank you very much. I’ll let you go. I know you’ve got to get ready for your gig tonight.

Sue Foley: Yes.

Rock And Blues International: Anyway, thank you and we’ll talk again one of these days.

Sue Foley: Okay, take care, Kevin.

Rock And Blues International: Okay. Bye bye.

Sue Foley: Bye.

As you can see, Sue Foley really had a great time recording and releasing her new album “One Guitar Woman.” This really shows a bit of insight into Sue Foley herself as she explains how all the women on this album really influenced her playing styles and her career in the music business. The really great thing about this new album is that it shows off a completely different side of Sue. Most of her albums are all electric and performed with her band and this one is totally different, it’s an all acoustic album and features some really great fingerpicking. My suggestion is that if you are a Sue Foley fan, then please make sure to add this to your collection. It is really a great album. And don’t forget to see Sue Foley the next time she comes through your town. She tells us she’s got a couple of different type sets to her shows. On some of her gigs she will be performing both electric and acoustic, and on some other gigs she will be playing all acoustic. No matter which show you see, we guarantee your going to have a great time. We’d like to thank Sue Foley for taking the time out to discuss her new album with us here at Rock And Blues International. Thanks Sue and good luck with your new album release, “One Guitar Woman.”

Rock And Blues International

I Shot A Man, those century-long vibes

by Edoardo Fassio

It is an obvious sense of belonging to the American popular music of the twentieth century that animates I Shot A Man, the “damned” band from Turin that represented Italy at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis in 2022. One Saturday evening a few weeks ago, the trio filled one of the trendiest city venues to capacity for the launch of their second album, Dues, out on the Roman label Bloos Records.

The music, varied and compelling, which fiercely welcomed both loyal supporters and casual customers in search of new emotions, resonated like an echo from the past: a vortex of vibrations familiar to ears trained on Howlin’ Wolf and Elisabeth Cotten, on the obsessive drones of Mississippi and the Tuareg side of the Sahara Desert and the sweet soul sounds of dance halls, evoked in “Billboards” and complete with Hawaiian slide guitar. There was of course the oldfashioned country (in the song “Thieves”), and its “outlaw” variant, threatening and out of control. After all, the group took their stage name from the cruel line in Johnny Cash’s “Folson Prison Blues” (“I shot a man in Reno, just to watch him die”).

Often, the blues, due to its obstinacy in remaining true to itself, becomes repetitive and predictable; this applies to the bands you saw growing up in your local rehearsal studios, as well as the ones who have made it big. This is not the case with I Shot A Man which, while maintaining a cautious reverence towards the more than century-old history of this music, nevertheless try to become part of it. Having clear that, in this field, there is no shortage of risks.

“When you decide to play the blues, it means that somewhere there is an unfinished business with your life,” confess the threesome, who took the commitment quite seriously. “The blues is the first music you try to strum when you pick up a guitar,” they acknowledge, “but it’s the last you really learn to play, and sometimes a lifetime isn’t enough.”

I Shot A Man boast an extremely essential line-up, devoid of bass and harmonica, an apparent anathema for a blues band. In the semi-acoustic, honky-tonk style setup, the lead vocals belong to Manuel Peluso, who plays the crooner-type in the hypnotic, unsettling “Contemplation Blues”, while remaining a street musician. Full confidence shows that he has already come a long way.

On lead guitar there is Domenico De Fazio, whose other sport, boxing, inspired the opening song “Arnold Wolf”, complete with retro sonic distortions à la Black Keys, and the related video; Simone Pozzi sits at the drumkit. On the occasion, they summoned up prestigious guests: Alice Costa

harmonica, Si Scrive Andy on piano. Among the youngest

as well.

and Ilaria Audino on backing vocals, Tom Newton on

talents on the city scene, they are all fast-rising talents

I Shot A Man, quelle vibrazioni lunghe un secolo

by Edoardo Fassio

È un trasparente senso di appartenenza e di continuità con le musiche popolari nordamericane del Novecento che anima I Shot A Man, la “dannata” band torinese che nel 2022 ha rappresentato l’Italia alla International Blues Challenge di Memphis. Un sabato sera, poche settimane fa, il trio ha riempito a tappo un locale cittadino tra i più trendy per il lancio del secondo album, Dues, in uscita per la romana Bloos Records.

La musica, varia e avvincente, che accoglieva con fierezza supporter fedeli e curiosi in cerca di nuove proposte, risuonava come un’eco del passato: un vortice di vibrazioni familiari alle orecchie allenate a Howlin’ Wolf e a Elisabeth Cotten, ai bordoni ossessivi del Mississippi e della sponda Tuareg del Sahara e al sweet soul da balera, evocato in “Billboards” con tanto di slide all’hawaiiana. C’erano naturalmente anche il country vecchia maniera di “Thieves” e la sua variante “outlaw”, più minacciosa e incontrollabile. Dopo tutto, il gruppo ha tratto il nome di battaglia dal crudele verso di “Folson Prison Blues” di Johnny Cash (“Ho sparato a un uomo a Reno, solo per vederlo morire”).

Spesso il blues, per l’ostinazione di mantenersi fedele a sé stesso, diventa ripetitivo e prevedibile; vale per le band che hai visto crescere nelle sale prove vicino casa, come per tante che ascendono al rango di big. Non è il caso di I Shot A Man che, mentre mantengono una cauta riverenza nei confronti della più che centenaria vicenda di questa musica, provano tuttavia a entrare a farne parte. Avendo chiaro che, su questo terreno, i rischi non mancano.

“Quando si decide di suonare blues significa che da qualche parte c’è un conto in sospeso con la vita”, confessano i tre, che hanno preso l’impegno sul serio. “Il blues è la prima musica che si prova a strimpellare quando si prende una chitarra in mano”, riconoscono, “ma è l’ultima che si impara a suonare davvero, e a volte non basta una vita”.

Gli I Shot A Man ostentano un line-up oltremodo essenziale, privo di basso e di armonica, un apparente anatema per una blues band. Nella disposizione semiacustica da saloon di provincia, il canto solista spetta a Manuel Peluso, che diventa crooner nell’ipnotica, spiazzante “Contemplation Blues”, pur restando un musicista di strada. La piena confidenza dimostra che di strada ne ha già percorsa parecchia.

Alla chitarra solista c’è Domenico De Fazio, il cui altro sport, il pugilato, ha ispirato il brano di apertura “Arnold Wolf”, con tanto di distorsioni retrò alla Black Keys, e il relativo video; alla batteria siede Simone Pozzi. Per il nuovo lavoro hanno invitato ospiti di pregio: Alice Costa e Ilaria Audino ai cori, Tom Newton all’armonica, Si Scrive Andy al pianoforte. Tra le leve più giovani della scena cittadina, anche loro sono tutti talenti in rapida via di affermazione.

Jontavious Willis Signs To Strolling Bones Records

Upcoming Album West Georgia Blues Scheduled For A Summer Release

Jontavious Willis performs “She Might Be Your Woman” @ https://youtu.be/g0NogOVSEz8

By Deshaun Phillips

Jontavious Willis, the charming and highly acclaimed rising star of the blues scene, has officially joined Strolling Bones Records. This Georgiabased label, led by the legendary George Fontaine, Sr., recent recipient of the Americana Lifetime Achievement Award, will be the home for Willis’ upcoming album “West Georgia Blues,” set to release this summer. Following the album release, Willis will embark on a global tour, connecting with fans around the world. For updates on tour dates and more, visit jontaviouswillis.com.

Expressing his gratitude for the partnership, Willis stated, “I am overwhelmed with appreciation and joy to embark on this journey with the Strolling Bones family. Working alongside George Fontaine, especially in the year he received The Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award, is a true honor. The label’s impressive musical legacy and its roots in my beloved Georgia made it an easy decision for me. I am humbled, thrilled, and eagerly anticipating sharing these new projects with everyone.”

George Fontaine Sr., founder of Strolling Bones Records, shared his excitement about welcoming Jontavious Willis into the label’s fold, saying, “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to include Jontavious Willis in the Strolling Bones Records family. I first saw Jontavious perform at The Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival in Thomson, GA, a few years back, and I was blown away by his talent. Not only is he a fantastic artist, but he also embodies the spirit of Georgia. We can’t wait to introduce new Jontavious Willis music to the world!”

Renowned blues musician Taj Mahal also expressed his enthusiasm, referring to Willis as “my Wonderboy, the Wunderkind,” praising his contributions to 21st-century acoustic blues. Taj Mahal added, “Jontavious is a phenomenal new voice in the world of blues— he’s incredibly talented and has a bright future ahead. His sound is remarkable, and we are fortunate to witness the start of what promises to be an extraordinary and enduring career.”

Jontavious Willis is steadfast in his mission to breathe new life into today’s

blues scene with a deep respect for its roots. Drawing inspiration from a time when blues music was vibrant and rhythmic, Jontavious blends his Georgia heritage with a reverence for traditional blues, creating music that moves audiences to dance once more.

Growing up in Greenville, Georgia, Jontavious was surrounded by gospel music, which was as integral to his upbringing as Saturday morning cartoons. Encouraged by his family, he began singing at church before receiving his first guitar. His love for gospel music evolved into a passion for blues after watching a video of the legendary Muddy Waters at the age of fourteen. Captivated by the electrifying performance and the emotional energy of the music, Jontavious set out to learn how to create music that resonates deeply with people. Drawing from the stories and experiences of local musicians, he found his connection to the past through music.

Despite earning accolades such as a Grammy nomination, Jontavious remains focused on his mission to revive this quintessentially American art form and preserve its rich history. At the core of his mission lies performance and storytelling; for Jontavious, a great blues song is a narrative, with music serving as the backdrop for its telling. From Eastern Europe to California, he brings these stories to life on stage, captivating audiences at renowned festivals like New Orleans Jazz and Heritage, as well as iconic venues such as the Grand Ole Opry.

His debut album “Blue Metamorphosis” in 2016 received glowing reviews from publications like Living Blues and Blues & Rhythm magazines, and earned the Blues Foundation’s International Blues Challenge 2018 Award for Best Self-Produced CD. His Grammy-nominated sophomore album, “Spectacular Class,” showcases Jontavious exploring a range of blues styles with dynamic ensemble performances. Touring extensively worldwide, he shares his blend of timeless yet contemporary, cerebral yet danceable blues with audiences everywhere.

Recorded at the legendary Capricorn Studios in Macon, Georgia, Jontavious’ new album blends traditional blues with the raw energy of a juke joint Saturday night. The result is a collection of songs that feel spontaneous and authentic, allowing Willis’ soulful voice to weave tales and guide the blues wherever it desires to go.

Asking Alexandria Perform At The House Of Blues April 13

By Greg Fontaine

British rock luminaries Asking Alexandria are set to make a triumphant return to the United States this spring, igniting stages across the nation with their highly anticipated “All My Friends” tour. This monumental 27-date journey, in support of their critically acclaimed eighth studio album “Where Do We Go From Here?”, promises fans an electrifying experience like no other.

The tour, kicking off on April 12th in San Antonio, Texas, and concluding on May 18th in Tempe, Arizona, will see Asking Alexandria at the helm, ready to unleash their signature blend of raw energy and unbridled passion on eager audiences. Joining them on this epic musical voyage are special guests Memphis May Fire and The Word Alive, along with the electrifying opening act NERV.

“Where Do We Go From Here?” stands as a testament to the band’s enduring legacy, already boasting their second-ever #1 Active Rock radio single with the electrifying track “Psycho”. Since its release, the album has amassed an impressive 43 million streams, captivating listeners with its bold experimentation and undeniable hooks.

Produced and mixed by the acclaimed Matt Good, renowned for his work with Hollywood Undead and From First To Last, “Where Do We Go From Here?” represents a sonic evolution for Asking Alexandria. The album seamlessly blends their signature metalcore roots with innovative forays into experimental electronics, creating a dynamic and immersive listening experience.

In an era where the death of rock is often predicted, Asking Alexandria stands defiant, a vibrant beacon of the

genre’s enduring spirit. Their music resonates with vibrant potency and empowering authenticity, embodying the very essence of rock ‘n’ roll rebellion.

The band’s immense social media following, exceeding 10 million devoted fans, speaks volumes about their global reach and enduring appeal. From sharing the stage with rock legends such as Guns N’ Roses, Green Day, Alice In Chains, and Avenged Sevenfold, to touring alongside heavyweights like Slipknot, Korn, and Bullet For My Valentine, Asking Alexandria has left an indelible mark on the rock landscape.

Their anthems, including the RIAA-certified gold hits “The Final Episode” and “Not the American Average”, have collectively amassed over 100 million views on YouTube. Tracks like “The Death of Me”, “Moving

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On”, and “A Prophecy” continue to captivate audiences worldwide, their powerful lyrics and infectious melodies striking a chord with listeners.

The media has taken note of the band’s impact, with cover stories in prestigious publications such as Kerrang!, Metal Hammer, Rock Sound, Alternative Press, and Revolver. Their music enjoys extensive airplay on satellite and terrestrial radio stations, while fan discussions on platforms like Tumblr, Reddit, and Snapchat buzz with excitement.

Asking Alexandria’s self-titled fifth album marked a triumphant return to form, celebrating acceptance and the strength of diversity. Tracks like “Alone in a Room” and “Hopelessly Hopeful” showcase the band’s signature blend of powerful verses and anthemic choruses, resonating with fans on a deeply personal level.

With a career spanning five albums, Asking Alexandria’s journey has been one of resilience, reinvention, and unwavering passion. From their breakout hit “Stand Up and Scream” (2009) to the melodic fury of “Reckless & Relentless” (2011) and the chart-topping success of “From Death to Destiny” (2013), the band has continually pushed boundaries and redefined modern metalcore.

Their latest album, “Where Do We Go From Here?”, represents a pivotal moment in the band’s history. A culmina-

tion of their collective experiences, the record showcases the undeniable chemistry between founding members Danny Worsnop (vocals) and Ben Bruce (guitar), as well as the unwavering camaraderie of the entire band.

Founded in Dubai in 2003 under various names before settling on Asking Alexandria in 2006, the band has undergone several evolutions. Their early years were marked by a relentless touring schedule, sharing stages with bands like Alesana, the Bled, and Evergreen Terrace. Signing with Sumerian Records in 2009, they released their debut album “Stand Up and Scream”, followed by the “Life Gone Wild” EP.

Their breakthrough came in 2011 with the release of the remix album “Stepped Up and Scratched”, which featured EDM remixes of their hits. This was swiftly followed by the success of “Reckless & Relentless”, which soared to number nine on the Billboard charts. Despite a vocal cord injury to Worsnop in 2012, the band returned stronger than

ever with their acclaimed album “From Death to Destiny” in 2013.

A momentary departure of Worsnop in 2015 saw the band recruiting Ukrainian metalcore vocalist Denis Stoff, resulting in the release of the album “The Black” in 2016. However, the reunion of Worsnop with the band in 2017 marked a new chapter for Asking Alexandria. The self-titled album, released later that year, showcased a more refined, stadium-rock-friendly style of metalcore.

Subsequent releases like “Like a House on Fire” (2020) and “See What’s on the Inside” (2021) further solidified the band’s position as trailblazers of modern rock. Their latest album, “Where Do We Go From Here?”, released in 2023, represents a bold step forward for the band, as they continue to push boundaries and captivate audiences worldwide.

As they prepare to embark on the “All My Friends” tour, Asking Alexandria remains a shining beacon of rock ‘n’ roll defiance. Fans can expect nothing short of a spectacular live experience, filled with the raw energy and infectious enthusiasm that have become synonymous with the band’s performances.

Tickets for the “All My Friends” tour are now on sale, offering fans the opportunity to witness rock history in the making. Join Asking Alexandria as they blaze a trail across the U.S., proving once again that rock music is alive, thriving, and ready to ignite the hearts of fans everywhere. Get ready for an unforgettable journey with Asking Alexandria, where every note is a testament to the enduring spirit of rock ‘n’ roll.

Social Distortion And Bad Religion Kick Off U.S. Tour April 9th

By Nathan Pugh

Southern California punk legends Social Distortion and Bad Religion have announced an epic co-headlining tour across the U.S. that kicks off in Bakersfield, California on April 9, 2024. With additional support from The Lovebombs, the two iconic bands will join forces to bring their signature sounds and beloved catalogs to stages across the continent, showcasing their enduring legacy and influence on the punk rock movement.

As detailed in the announcement, Southern California punk legends Social Distortion and Bad Religion are set to embark on this epic co-headlining tour across America in Spring 2024. The two iconic bands will join forces to bring their signature sounds and beloved catalogs to stages across the continent, showcasing their enduring legacy and influence on the punk rock movement.

Bad Religion singer Greg Graffin reminisced, “Bad Religion and Social Distortion played together in 1980. Though we evolved in different directions, we both carried the torch of Southern California punk all along the way. Now we’re so excited to be on the same stage again.”

Jay Bentley, Bad Religion’s bassist, added “43 years after playing our first ever live show with Social Distortion, we’re finally going to tour together! That we’re both still making music and touring the world is a testament to the staying power of SoCal punk rock!”

The announcement revealed that in 2022, the two bands had shared a short tour of Australia together, where plans were hatched to bring the comradery to America this year. Brian Baker, Bad Religion’s guitarist, stated “I loved Social Distortion as a kid, and I love ‘em even more now. I am thrilled and

honored to be sharing stages with them this fall. This is one for the history books, folks.”

Social Distortion frontman Mike Ness commented directly: “It gives me great pleasure to announce that in April we will be going on a nationwide coheadlining tour with our friends in Bad Religion. Yes, we are back in action and can’t wait for this tour!! We did this with them in Australia in 2022 and the shows were amazing!”

He continued: “We have also decided in celebration of the 40-year anniversary and re-release of ‘Mommy’s Little Monster’ that we will be playing the album in its entirety. This should be a very special tour and we are all looking forward to it.”

The tour will kick off at the

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Mechanics Bank Theater in Bakersfield on April 9, 2024. Fans can expect an unforgettable experience as these two powerhouse punk bands share the stage, delivering raw, unapologetic performances night after night.

Formed as rebellious teenage punks in the working-class Fullerton suburb, Social Distortion survived their tumultuous youth to pioneer an undeniably honest and fiery punk rock brand incorporating outlaw country, classic 70s punk and primal blues. Seven studio albums and countless electrifying live shows have earned them a dedicated worldwide fanbase and catalog of timeless anthems like “Story Of My Life,” “Ball And Chain,” and “Prison Bound.” Their 2011 album ‘Hard Times And Nursery Rhymes’ hit #4 on the Billboard 200, and they celebrated 40 years as a band in 2019.

Additionally, Social Distortion shared rescheduled dates for their previously postponed tour with fellow SoCal rockers The Bellrays. Ness enthused: “I am also happy to announce

the tour with The Bellrays from last summer will now be happening in September and October 2024. I’d like thank the fans who bought tickets for their patience while we worked on the rescheduled dates. Words can’t describe how happy I am to be back onstage doing what I love. See you all soon.”

Social Distortion: Punk Legends Persevere

The story of Social Distortion is one of perseverance and unwavering dedication to their punk rock roots. Formed in 1978 by singer/guitarist Mike Ness amid the fertile Los Angeles hardcore scene, the band weathered numerous lineup changes, the decline of the L.A. punk movement that birthed them, and even Ness’ own struggles with heroin addiction. Through it all, their gritty, roots-inspired punk sound endured.

Originally featuring Ness, drummer Casey Royer, and brothers Frank and Rikk Agnew on bass and guitar respectively, Social Distortion quickly

established themselves as torchbearers of SoCal punk. Their 1983 debut Mommy’s Little Monster, with its Rolling Stonesmeets-punk sound, produced the MTV punk video rarity “Another State of Mind.”

But the band’s trajectory wasn’t smooth. Ness’ heroin use and rebellious behavior stalled their momentum, leading to a four-year gap before the country-tinged Prison Bound in 1988. Their self-titled 1990 album, featuring the Johnny Cash cover “Ring of Fire,” returned them to MTV with “Ball and Chain.”

The 1992 breakthrough Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell merged Social D’s punk roots with blues, country and rockabilly influences. It became their most popular record to date, scoring a minor hit with “Bad Luck.”

After a mid-90s hiatus, they returned with White Light, White Heat, White Trash and recruited ex-Black Flag drummer Chuck Biscuits. Ness briefly

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Social Distortion And Bad Religion

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pursued solo efforts before the 2000 death of longtime guitarist Dennis Danell. Jonny Wickersham and Charlie Quintana joined on guitar and drums respectively.

The 2004 album Sex, Love and Rock ‘n’ Roll preceded another long break before 2011’s Hard Times and Nursery Rhymes updated their classic hybrid punk sound. Through decades of turmoil, Social Distortion’s rousing, honest and defiant music kept carrying the torch for SoCal punk.

Bad Religion: Punk Lifers Stay Righteously Angry

Of all the defiant hardcore punk bands to emerge from the early 80s Southern California scene, Bad Religion proved the most enduring. While vocalist Greg Graffin remained the sole constant member through numerous lineup changes over four decades, the band’s musical attack continuously evolved.

Bad Religion formed in Los Angeles suburbs in 1980, anchored by guitarist Brett Gurewitz, Graffin on vocals, bassist Jay Bentley and drummer Jay Ziskrout. Gurewitz launched Epitaph Records to release their aggressive, musically dexterous early albums like 1982’s How Could Hell Be Any Worse? and Into the Unknown, which controversially experimented with prog rock bombast.

Personnel shuffles and hiatuses didn’t stop their momentum. Graffin’s only original bandmate by 1987, he regrouped with Gurewitz, Bentley, and new guitarist Greg Hetson for the seminal Suffer. That galvanizing 1988 album restored their hardcore cred and sparked a prolific run including No Control, Against the Grain and their 1993 mainstream breakthrough Recipe for Hate.

Now firmly an alternative rock crossover act, Bad Religion jumped to Atlantic Records for 1994’s Stranger

Than Fiction, their first and final album with co-founder Gurewitz. The Gray Race and No Substance followed before the Todd Rundgren-produced New America led them back to the independent Epitaph label in 2000.

With Gurewitz’s return after six years, 2002’s The Process of Belief reignited their fury, kicking off a blistering run of politically charged punk albums like The Empire Strikes First, railing against Bush-era policies. The potent 2007 polemic New Maps of Hell and 2019’s Age of Unreason proved Bad Religion still burned with anarchic fire after all these years.

Through countless lineups, Bad Religion never lost their trademark blend of hardcore intensity, progressive musicality and Graffin’s socially conscious, intellectually biting lyrics. Their ability to evolve while staying steadfastly true to their punk principles ensures their iconic legacy.

Joe Satriani And Steve Vai Announce Their Mind-Blowing U.S Tour For 2024

By Troy Wilson

Guitar aficionados, get ready for a mind-blowing experience as two legends of the fretboard, Joe Satriani and Steve Vai, announce their much-anticipated coheadlining US tour for 2024. This dynamic duo, known for their unparalleled guitar wizardry, will be hitting the stage together outside of the G3 project for the first time, promising an unforgettable evening of shredding and musical brilliance.

While fans have seen these maestros collaborate as part of the G3 project alongside Eric Johnson and others, this upcoming tour will mark a special milestone as they embark on the road together as a duo. Expressing his excitement for the tour, Satriani shared, “The Satch/Vai Tour is happening! I’m so looking forward to sharing the stage with Steve again. Every time we play together, it takes me back to when we were teenagers, eating and breathing music every second of the day, pushing, challenging, and helping each other to be

the best we could be. I guess we’ve never stopped!”

Adding to the anticipation, Vai chimed in, “Touring with Joe is always a pleasure and an honor. He is my favorite guitarist to jam with, and now we have another opportunity to take it to the stage. I feel as though we are both at the top of our game and that the show will be a powerful celebration of the coolest instrument in the world, the electric guitar!”

Reflecting on their deep musical connection, Vai shared insights from his formative years studying under Satriani in a 2022 interview with LifeMinute. Recalling his introduction to Satriani’s teachings, Vai recounted, “When I was 12, a friend of mine introduced me to Joe’s music and said, ‘If you think I’m great, you should see my guitar teacher, Joe Satriani.’ So he gave me Joe’s number, and I started taking lessons. My lessons with Joe were all that mattered to me.” Vai further elaborated on the profound impact of Satriani’s

mentorship, highlighting how it shaped his musical journey and development as a guitarist.

Taking a trip down memory lane, Satriani reminisced about his early days teaching Vai, saying, “Steve Vai was 12 years old and could not play guitar at all when I met him.” He recalled Vai showing up at his door with a guitar missing strings, eager to learn. This initial encounter marked the beginning of a lifelong musical bond that has seen both guitarists rise to legendary status.

The histories of Satriani and Vai have been intricately intertwined since their teenage years on Long Island, New York. Satriani, known for his virtuosic playing and innovative compositions, served as a pivotal mentor to Vai, nurturing his talents and guiding him on his musical path. Over the years, their friendship has deepened, leading to collaborations on various projects and shared experiences within the music industry.

In April 2022, Satriani released his 19th studio album, “The Elephants of Mars,” showcasing his continued creativity and mastery of the guitar. The album, which has been met with critical acclaim, further solidifies Satriani’s status as a trailblazer in the world of instrumental rock music. Additionally, Satriani has ventured into the realm of visual art, creating original canvases and hand-painted guitars available through the Wentworth Gallery, where lucky purchasers of his works are treated to private performances.

Meanwhile, Vai has been captivating audiences worldwide with his mesmerizing performances since the release of “Inviolate.” His globetrotting tour, spanning 51 countries, has showcased his unmatched talent and musical versatility. Alongside his tour, Vai also unveiled the archival album “Vai/Gash,” a treasure trove of musical gems held in his archive for three decades.

As these guitar virtuosos prepare to take the stage together once again, fans can expect an evening of unparalleled musicianship, electrifying solos, and a celebration of the timeless allure of the electric guitar. The Satriani and Vai coheadlining tour promises to be a shredding extravaganza, a testament to their enduring friendship and shared passion for music that continues to inspire generations of guitarists around the world.

IDLES Embrace “All is Love” Ethos on Revelatory New Album ‘TANGK,’ Announce Massive 2024 Tour

IDLES

By Greg Fontaine

After over a decade of forging fortitude from chaos and spiritual defiance, the revelation behind IDLES’ wildly ambitious new album ‘TANGK’ is as straightforward as it is transcendent: “All is love and love is all.”

The rousing fifth LP from the critically-acclaimed Bristol punks, due out February 16th, 2024 via Partisan Records, marks an audacious metamorphosis for mastermind Joe Talbot and his band of visceral agitators. Where their earliest releases like the 2017 breakthrough ‘Brutalism’ exorcised Talbot’s personal traumas with furious intensity, ‘TANGK’ represents an about-face into a full-blooded embrace of life’s great humane affirmations and human connection as an antidote to suffering.

“I needed love. So I made it,” Talbot states plainly about the album’s inspirations amidst the pandemic era and the birth of his daughter. “I gave love out to the world and it feels like magic. This is our album of gratitude and power. All love songs. All is love.”

That positivity and quest for transcendence courses through early singles like the throbbing, libidinous “Dancer,” which features guest vocals from LCD Soundsystem’s James Murphy and Nancy Whang. As Talbot repeats the mantra “I give myself to you/ As long as you move on the floor,” it celebrates the rapture of new romance but also IDLES’ unique bond with their ardently devoted fanbase.

“‘Dancer’ is the violence that comes from the pounding heart of the dancefloor and rushes through your body and gives you life from music, from love and from you,” Talbot explains.

The soulful slowburner “Grace” takes a more pensive approach, as Talbot’s weathered baritone delivers an epiphany - “No god, no king, I said love is the thing” - over swelling orchestration. It’s perhaps his most profound spiritual manifesto yet, discarding generational nihilism and toxic power structures for a more benevolent, unifying force.

Meanwhile, the taut intensity of the recently released “Gift Horse” showcases that IDLES haven’t gone soft

in embracing vulnerability. Its sinewy menace and stuttering grooves provide a backdrop for Talbot’s typically thoughtprovoking examinations of modern existence and self-empowerment: “All is love and love is all.”

The rallying cry for human connection as an antidote to life’s harsh realities has been a throughline for IDLES since their visceral 2017 debut ‘Brutalism.’ Fueled by Talbot’s adrenaline-blast lyricism documenting his struggles with addiction, abuse, toxic masculinity and more, the album was a critical and cult smash that quickly labeled them as scabrous post-punk agitators “taking the piss” out of society’s ills.

2018’s fearsome ‘Joy as an Act of Resistance’ doubled down, delivering a

muscular assertion of vulnerability as strength in the face of modern tribalism and injustice. IDLES’ music became a life-affirming rallying cry, as they forged cathartic solidarity with their fanbase. As Talbot stated at the time, “This is for those who stayed up crazy late last night talking with somebody they love about their size and skin...”

Their sound grew more contorted and restless on 2020’s ‘Ultra Mono’ and the Grammy-nominated 2021 album ‘CRAWLER,’ reflecting the chaos of the pandemic era. The latter scored them their first two Grammy nods and the #1 spot on the U.K. album chart, setting the stage for their most ambitious creative leap yet on ‘TANGK.’

To capture the new album’s

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transcendently raw joy and ecstatic epiphanies, IDLES assembled a stacked production dream team - Nigel Godrich (Radiohead, The Smile, Beck), Kenny Beats (Denzel Curry, Vince Staples, Rico Nasty), and guitarist Mark Bowen. The contrasting perspectives allowed the band to explore wildly adventurous new soundscapes and textures without losing their trademark urgency.

“What Joe and I have realized as friends and co-songwriters is that we are almost the exact opposite person, in every way,” says Bowen. “There was a time we thought it was important to be of one mind, but we’re happier and better to become more different as we go.”

The eclectic production squad’s yin-and-yang chemisty makes for a sound that is “sprawling and focused, imaginative and immediate.” It runs the gamut from the kinetic, hardcore shrapnel of “POP POP POP” and “Hall And Oates” to the psychedelic blooming of “Grace” to the album-opening improv suite “IDEA 1,” which Bowen birthed from his initial loop sessions with Godrich.

At the core is Talbot’s instantly identifiable stream-of-consciousness vocal approach, capturing his instinctive reflections on embracing love as a path to self-actualization across these 11 tracks. But now it’s contextualized by a hard-won sense of perseverance that only comes through struggle and profound life changes like new fatherhood.

“If you give people everything on stage, they’ll give you everything back,” Talbot states about his habit of confronting audiences with candor and lucidity. “There’s no bullshit in our crowd...I’ve got more strength in me than I ever have, and it comes from love.”

That invigorated spirit extends to IDLES’ biggest live roadmap to date, surrounding the ‘TANGK’ album cycle. The massive 2024 North American tour includes two legs, kicking off on May 3rd in Vancouver and covering the U.S., Canada and Mexico through late October.

The first leg hits major markets across the western U.S. and Canada before a late summer break. The second

leg launches September 14th in Asheville, NC and finally wraps up with one of their biggest headlining shows to date in Mexico City that October. It’s an epic live takeover showcasing the latest defiant vision from a band who have progressed from visceral provocateurs to optimistic beacons of hardship-born solidarity and self-empowerment.

Where IDLES were once set on taking the world’s piss and exorcizing personal trauma in real time, they have arrived on ‘TANGK’ to offer the transcendent fruits of such perseverance and wisdom - love, joy, gratitude for existence itself in the face of the void. As Talbot howls repeatedly amid the album’s torrent of colossal hooks, “I’ve searched and felt the nature is love itself.”

With leadoff single “Dancer” already providing an ecstatic, bodymoving glimpse of their revelatory new sound of purgative joy, and an epic cross-continental live show on the horizon, IDLES are embracing their role as catalysts for spiritual renewal and freudenfreude (“joy on joy”) on the appropriately titled ‘TANGK.’ The album’s very name - a guttural twist on the word “tank” meant to evoke “lashing” guitar violence - has morphed into a sigil for the very idea of living fully in love itself.

It’s an unflinching rebuke to any societal force that attempts to “compress happiness until it is controllable.” In 2024, IDLES reaffirm their place in the lineage of iconoclasts who recast raw angst as supreme self-actualization. Because as their exhilarating latest so urgently reminds us - if we don’t look after ourselves and each other through love’s eternal miracle: “Who will?”

The Alarm Kick Off U.S. Tour On May 1st.

By Nathan Pugh

The Alarm, the legendary band known for their idealistic spirit, anthemic songs, and powerhouse live performances, is gearing up for their highly anticipated “Live Today Love Tomorrow Tour 2024.” With a journey that spans decades and continents, this tour promises to be a celebration of their storied career and enduring legacy.

The tour is set to kick off on May 1st at the iconic House of Blues in New Orleans, marking the beginning of an exciting musical adventure for fans across North America captivating audiences with their electrifying live shows and timeless hits.

As they crisscross the continent, The Alarm will be bringing their iconic sound to cities far and wide, from bustling metropolises to intimate venues. Fans can expect to hear a power-packed concert experience on these nights, with the band focusing on their greatest hits while also delving into a few hidden gems from their extensive catalog.

The journey doesn’t end there for The Alarm, as they will then make their way back to their native UK for a series of concerts that promise to be nothing short of epic. The tour is currently

scheduled to wind down around November 30th at The Cresset in Peterborough, United Kingdom, marking a triumphant return to their roots.

Formed in Rhyl, Wales in 1981, The Alarm quickly made a name for themselves with their impassioned brand of alternative rock. Drawing inspiration from the righteous idealism of punk, the band’s early work often featured a blend of acoustic folk-punk and hard-driving guitar rock, creating a sound that was uniquely their own.

Their breakthrough came with the release of their 1984 album, “Declaration,” which spawned hits such as “Sixty-Eight Guns,” “Where Were You Hiding When the Storm Broke?” and “The Deceiver.” The album’s success catapulted The Alarm into the spotlight, earning them a dedicated following and critical acclaim.

Building on this momentum, The Alarm continued to release a string of successful albums throughout the ’80s and ’90s. Albums like 1985’s “Strength” showcased a greater maturity in their songwriting and arrangements, while hits like “Spirit of ’76" solidified their status as one of the era’s most beloved acts.

The late ’80s saw The Alarm

experimenting with their sound, with albums like 1987’s “Eye of the Hurricane” and 1989’s “Change” reflecting a more polished, mainstream production akin to U2. Tracks such as “Rain in the Summertime” and “Sold Me Down the River” became radio staples, earning the band a dedicated following on both sides of the Atlantic.

Despite their success, internal tensions and personal tragedies led to the original lineup of The Alarm disbanding in 1991. However, this was not the end of the road for the band’s founder, Mike Peters, who embarked on a successful solo career while also battling chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

In the late 2010s, The Alarm reunited to the delight of their loyal fanbase. The band’s resurgence was met with critical acclaim, with recordings like 2021’s “WA?” (later issued as “Omega” in 2022) reaffirming their commitment to their anthemic sound and dedicated fans.

In June 2023, Mike Peters released “Forwards,” an album born out of his personal struggles with leukemia and pneumonia. The songs, written during his hospitalization, offered a glimpse into Peters’ resilience and strength in the face of adversity.

Now, as The Alarm prepares to embark on the “Live Today Love Tomorrow Tour 2024,” fans can expect a night of unforgettable music and spirited performances. From the infectious energy of their early hits to the introspective depth of their later work, The Alarm promises to deliver a concert experience that celebrates their storied career and enduring legacy.

So mark your calendars and get ready to rock out with The Alarm as they take the stage once again, proving that their music is as relevant and powerful as ever. The “Live Today Love Tomorrow Tour 2024” is sure to be a highlight for fans old and new, a testament to the enduring spirit of one of rock’s most beloved bands.

Don Was

Six Time GRAMMY-Winning Musician, Producer, Composer,and Blue Note Records President Don Was Announces Don Was and The Pan-Detroit Ensemble New Band to Embark on US Tour Dates This May

Watch Don Was and The Pan-Detroit Ensemble Live In Studio @

By Albert Schwartz

Don Was, the six-time GRAMMYwinning artist, producer, composer, and President of Blue Note Records, has introduced his latest musical venture: Don Was and The Pan-Detroit Ensemble. This new group, comprised of exceptional jazz musicians from his hometown, features longtime collaborators such as saxophonist Dave McMurray, a Blue Note Records artist, and Luis Resto, the Oscar-winning keyboardist known for his work with Eminem. The band is set to embark on its inaugural US tour starting this May.

“When the opportunity arose to form a new band, the answer was clear to me: return to Detroit, my roots, embrace my true self, and collaborate with likeminded individuals,” shares Was. Alongside McMurray and Resto, the ensemble includes trombonist Vincent Chandler, trumpeter John Douglas, drummer Jeff Canaday, percussionist Mahindi Masai, guitarist Wayne Gerard, and vocalist Steffanie Christi’an. “Detroit possesses a distinct sound and vibe that transcends borders,” Was adds. “There’s an authentic rawness, an absence of pretense, and an undeniable groove that reflects the essence of the city’s people and culture.”

Drawing inspiration from the musical legacies of artists such as John Lee Hooker, Donald Byrd, Joe Henderson, George Clinton, Mitch Ryder, The Stooges, Electrifying Mojo, and more, The Pan-Detroit Ensemble will deliver a blend of fresh originals, reinterpretations of tunes by Yusef Lateef, Olu Dara, Henry Threadgill, among others, and updated renditions from Don’s previous albums with Orquestra Was and Was (Not Was).

“For the past 30 years, I’ve been pursuing a sound in my head,” explains Was. “It’s a mix of jazz with improvisation, fused together by a sinewy R&B groove. It’s not polished or slick—it’s a raw, honest, Detroit-style essence. My experiences touring with Bobby Weir over the last six years, along with the influences from the artists on Blue Note’s roster, have guided me towards realizing this sound. The Pan Detroit Ensemble embodies that ‘thing’ I’ve been chasing. Our aim is to create music that connects deeply with listeners, offering joy, comfort, and understanding in tumultuous times. It’s all interconnected.”

“This tour marks just the beginning,” asserts Was. “I can feel a special chemistry within this band, and I’m eager to witness its evolution. The plan is to continue learning and growing until we can’t anymore... There’s no turning back now!”

Music has always been a central part of Don Was’ life. Born in Detroit in 1952, he has enjoyed a diverse career as a musician, record producer, music director, film composer, documentary filmmaker, and radio host. Since 2011, he has held the position of President at the esteemed jazz label, Blue Note Records.

His work as a record producer has earned him six Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year in 1989 for Bonnie Raitt’s “Nick of Time” and Producer of the Year in 1994. Was has produced records that have collectively sold nearly 100 million albums, collaborating with artists ranging from The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and Willie Nelson to The B-52’s, Wayne Shorter, John Mayer, and Charles Lloyd. In 1995,

he produced and directed the documentary “I Just Wasn’t Made For These Times,” about the life of Brian Wilson, which won the San Francisco Film Festival’s Golden Gate Award. As a film composer, he received the 1994 British Academy Award (BAFTA) for Best Original Score for his work on “Backbeat.” In 2014, he won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Music Direction for the CBS TV special “The Beatles: The Night That Changed America.” In 2018, Don joined Grateful Dead guitarist Bob Weir to form the Wolf Brothers, with whom he continues to tour the US.

Since assuming the role of President at Blue Note Records in 2011, Was has been dedicated to preserving the label’s 85-year legacy of Black American Music. He meticulously oversees the catalog’s availability and quality, particularly in vinyl reissues through the Tone Poet and Classic Jazz audiophile release series. Additionally, he signs and produces many of the label’s recent roster of artists, including Robert Glasper, Charles Lloyd, Wayne Shorter, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Gregory Porter, and Jason Moran.

Don’s deep ties to Detroit remain strong; for the past 15 years, he has directed music and played bass in the Don Was Detroit All-Star Revue concerts, a part of Detroit’s annual diversity festival, The Concert of Colors. From 2009 to 2012, he hosted a weekly Sirius XM radio show called “The Motor City Hayride” on the Outlaw Country channel. Since 2021, he co-hosts a weekly, live radio show on Detroit’s NPR station, WDET-FM titled “The Don Was Motor City Playlist.” Additionally, Don provides the voice of Neville the Dog in the popular Amazon Prime Video children’s show, “Pete the Cat.”

Vicious Rumors Hit The Road With Their 45th Anniversary 2024 World Tour

US metal legends VICIOUS RUMORS have launched their colossal 2024 tour, kicking off on March 22 in Cape Coral, FL. Joining forces with Raven for a co-headlining spectacle from March 22 to May 4, the band will then cross the Atlantic for their European leg, promising fans an unforgettable celebration! Stay tuned for more dates to be unveiled soon.

Though VICIOUS RUMORS and Raven have graced stages together over the years, this marks their premiere collaboration on tour. Check out the full list of tour dates below.

In a special tribute for their 45th anniversary, VICIOUS RUMORS will perform their acclaimed debut album, “Soldiers Of The Night,” in its entirety for the first time in North America.

Exciting news continues with the band working on a fresh studio album. Following their European stint in June, where they will rock the Sweden Rock Festival, VICIOUS RUMORS plans to headline shows in Italy, Austria, Belgium, and Germany.

Hailing from Santa Rosa, California, VICIOUS RUMORS emerged onto the scene in 1980 under the vision of guitarist Geoff Thorpe. The original lineup included vocalist Mark Tate, guitarist Jim Cassero, bassist Jeff Barnacle, and drummer Walt Perkins. Their breakthrough came with the Metal Mondays at Bill Graham’s Old Waldorf night club in the same year, marking the inception of the renowned Bay Area metal scene.

After self-releasing singles and

making waves in metal compilations, VICIOUS RUMORS inked their first record deal in 1984 with the rising Shrapnel Records, led by fellow Californian metal aficionado Mike Varney. Through lineup changes, including Larry Howe taking over on drums and Gary St. Pierre assuming vocals, the band found its stride.

Their debut album, “Soldiers of the Night,” dropped in 1986 to resounding acclaim, particularly in Europe. The lineup solidified with vocalist Carl Albert, guitarists Thorpe and Mark McGee, bassist Starr, and drummer Howe, a lineup that endured for nearly a decade.

Following the success of “Digital Dictator” in 1988, the band signed with

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Atlantic Records and released their selftitled album in 1990, supported by extensive touring. Despite not hitting the top-tier U.S. metal scene, VICIOUS RUMORS gained momentum with albums like “Welcome to the Ball” (1991) and “Plug in and Hang on: Live in Tokyo” (1992).

Changes in the music industry led to shifts, with the band parting ways with Atlantic and exploring deals in Europe and Japan. The ’90s saw releases like “Word of Mouth” (1994) and “Something Burning” (1996), a poignant release following the passing of Carl Albert.

Thorpe took on lead vocals for “Something Burning,” solidifying the band’s European fanbase with successful tours. However, the need for a new vocalist arose, leading to Brian O’Connor’s tenure for “Cyber-Christ” (1998) and Morgan Thorn’s for “Sadistic Symphony” (2001).

After a hiatus, the band reunited in 2006, releasing “Warball” (2006) and returning to their traditional power metal roots. Signing with SPV, VICIOUS RUMORS continued their musical journey with albums like “Razorback Killers” (2011), “Electric Punishment” (2013), and “Concussion Protocol” (2016).

True to their identity, VICIOUS RUMORS persists in delivering authentic, timeless metal that resonates with their devoted fanbase.

VICIOUS RUMORS

Soldiers Of The Night Live Across America with Raven

April 1 - Phoenix, AZ @ Last Exit Live

April 2 - Los Angeles, CA @ Whisky A Go Go

April 3 - San Francisco, CA @ DNA Lounge

April 5 - Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theatre

April 6 - Vancouver, BC @ Wise Hall

April 7 - Seattle, WA @ Substation

April 8 - Boise, ID @ The Shredder

April 9 - Salt Lake, City @ Aces High

April 11 - Denver, CO @ Marquis Theater

April 12 - Rapid City, SD @ Creative Arts Building

April 13 - Lincoln, NE @ Cosmic Eye

April 14 - Chicago, IL @ Reggie’s

April 15 - St Louis, MO @ Red Flag

April 17 - Louisville, KY @ Portal

April 18 - Detroit, MI @ Sanctuary

April 20 - Toronto, ON @ Hard Luck Bar

April 21 - Rochester, NY @ Bug Jar

April 22 - Ottawa, ON @ Rainbow Bistro

April23 - Quebec City, QC @ La Source De La Martiniere

April 24 - Montreal, QC @ Piranha Bar

April 25 - Sayreville, NJ @ Starland Ballroom

April 26 - Providence, RI @ Alchemy

April 27 - New Hope, PA @ John & Peter’s

April 29 - Baltimore, MD @ Metro Baltimore

April 30 - Raleigh, NC @ Lincoln Theatre

May 4 - Pompano Beach, FL @ Piper’s Pub

European Dates:

May 28 - DE-Frankfurt @ Das Bett

May 30 - AT-Velden @ Bluesiana

May 31 - IT-Torino @ Ziggy Club

June 1 - IT-Bologna @ Alchemica

June 5 - SE-Sölvesborg @ Sweden Rock Festival

June 8 - NL-Uden @ De Pul

June 12 - BE-Kortrijk @ De Verlichte Geest

June 13 - BE-Bilzen @ South Of Heaven

June 14 - DE-Freiburg @ ArTik

June 15 - DE-Gosheim @ Jurahalle

Drive-By Truckers Unveil Epic “Southern Rock Opera Revisited 2024 Tour” North American Headline Run Presented by Live Nation Performing Their Landmark 2001 Album Alongside Fan Favorites

By Greg Fontaine

Drive-By Truckers, the acclaimed rock band hailed for their raw energy and poignant storytelling, is set to embark on a monumental musical journey with the Southern Rock Opera Revisited 2024 Tour. Presented by Live Nation, this tour stands as a momentous occasion, marking the band’s return to their iconic third studio album, “Southern Rock Opera,” released to critical acclaim in 2001.

The Southern Rock Opera Revisited 2024 Tour promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans old and new, as Drive-By Truckers delve deep into the heart and soul of an album that defined a generation. From the anthemic “Zip City” to the haunting “Angels and Fuselage,” the band will perform the entire album in its entirety, accompanied by a selection of fan-favorite tracks and hidden

gems from their extensive discography.

Launching on June 7 at the Egyptian Room at Old National Centre in Indianapolis, IN, the tour will traverse North America, stopping at iconic venues and historic theaters along the way. Fans can look forward to electrifying performances at venues such as the Warner Theatre in Washington, DC, the legendary Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN, and the storied Fillmore in San Francisco, CA.

For Drive-By Truckers, “Southern Rock Opera” holds a special place in their hearts and the history of rock music. Released on September 11, 2001, amidst a backdrop of turmoil and uncertainty, the album was a bold statement of defiance and resilience. Now, 23 years later, the band is ready to revisit this seminal work, bringing new life and fresh

perspective to its timeless themes.

Co-founder Mike Cooley’s longstanding dream of performing “Southern Rock Opera” “on ice” has finally come to fruition with the 2024 tour. The band promises a reimagined and immersive experience, blending the album’s original intensity with the wisdom and maturity gained over two decades of musical exploration.

As they take the stage each night, Drive-By Truckers will invite audiences on a journey through the heart of the American South, exploring themes of love, loss, redemption, and the enduring spirit of the region. From the gritty realism of “The Southern Thing” to the epic storytelling of “Guns of Umpqua,” each song will resonate with a newfound depth and poignancy.

In addition to the full album performance, the tour will feature a selection of songs that complement the themes and narratives of “Southern Rock Opera.” Audiences can expect to hear rare tracks, Bsides, and unreleased gems, creating a rich tapestry of sound and storytelling.

For fans eager to dive deeper into the world of Drive-By Truckers, the band is offering an exclusive Southern Rock Opera Revisited VIP Experience. This special package includes access to a pre-show soundcheck party, limited edition merchandise, and a chance to meet the band members in person.

In the spirit of their commitment to independent music retailers, Drive-By Truckers is encouraging fans to place their ticket requests for all shows on the Southern Rock Opera Revisited 2024 Tour. VIP Experience packages are available now, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the band and immerse oneself in the world of “Southern Rock Opera.”

As Drive-By Truckers prepare to embark on this epic musical odyssey, they invite fans to join them for a night of rock ‘n’ roll magic, camaraderie, and celebration. With each performance, they will breathe new life into the songs that have become anthems for a generation, reminding audiences of the enduring power of music to inspire, provoke, and unite.

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of history as Drive-By Truckers bring the Southern Rock Opera back to life on stage. Tickets for the Southern Rock Opera Revisited 2024 Tour are on sale now. For complete details and ticket information, visit www.drivebytruckers.com/shows.

Join Drive-By Truckers as they embark on a musical journey through time and sound,

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Drive-By Truckers

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celebrating the album that changed the course of their career and left an indelible mark on the landscape of rock music. It’s a tour that promises to be both a nostalgic trip down memory lane and a bold step forward into the future of American rock ‘n’ roll.

With every chord and lyric, Drive-By Truckers will transport audiences to the heart of the American South, where tales of love, loss, and resilience echo through the ages. From the sweltering heat of Alabama to the dusty roads of Georgia, the band will paint a vivid portrait of a region steeped in history and tradition.

As the Southern Rock Opera Revisited 2024 Tour unfolds, fans can expect more than just a concert – it’s an immersive experience that invites them to dive deep into the music and stories that have defined Drive-By Truckers’ career. From intimate acoustic moments to electrifying rock anthems, each show promises to be a dynamic and unforgettable event.

For those lucky enough to attend multiple shows, each performance will offer a unique and evolving setlist, ensuring that no two nights are the same. With surprises, guest appearances, and special collaborations, Drive-By Truckers will keep fans on the edge of their seats, eager to see what unfolds next.

The band’s commitment to independent music retailers shines through in every aspect of the tour, from the limited edition merchandise to the exclusive VIP experiences. Drive-By Truckers are not just putting on a show – they’re creating a community of fans and music lovers who share a passion for authentic, heartfelt rock ‘n’ roll.

So mark your calendars, secure your tickets, and get ready to embark on a musical journey like no other. The Southern Rock Opera Revisited 2024 Tour is more than just a concert series—it’s a celebration of the enduring legacy of Drive-By Truckers and the timeless themes of their music.

As the band takes the stage night after night, they will channel the spirit of “Southern Rock Opera” with a passion and intensity that only comes from years of musical exploration and growth. Each song will resonate with a renewed sense of purpose, offering fans a chance to experience these iconic tracks in a whole new light.

But the tour doesn’t stop at just revisiting the album. Drive-By Truckers have

promised a setlist that spans their entire career, from early classics to recent favorites. Fans can expect to hear beloved tracks like “Outfit,” “Decoration Day,” “Three Dimes Down,” and “Sink Hole,” among many others, brought to life with the band’s trademark energy and authenticity.

Throughout the tour, Drive-By Truckers will also share stories and anecdotes from their time recording “Southern Rock Opera,” offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the album and the experiences that inspired its songs. It’s a rare opportunity to connect with the band on a personal level and gain insight into the creative process behind their music.

In addition to the music, the tour will feature stunning visuals and stage production that complement the themes of “Southern Rock Opera.” From mesmerizing light displays to evocative video montages, each show will be a multi-sensory experience that transports audiences to the heart of the American South.

And for those die-hard fans who want to take their experience to the next level, the Southern Rock Opera Revisited VIP Experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. With exclusive access to soundchecks, meet-and-greets with the band, and limited edition merchandise, VIP ticket holders will truly be immersed in the world of

Drive-By Truckers.

But perhaps the most exciting aspect of the tour is the sense of camaraderie and community that it fosters among fans. DriveBy Truckers concerts have always been a gathering place for music lovers from all walks of life, and the Southern Rock Opera Revisited 2024 Tour is no exception. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the band for the first time, you’ll find yourself surrounded by fellow enthusiasts who share your passion for great music and powerful storytelling.

As the tour culminates in a special finale at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium on November 24, fans can expect an unforgettable night of music, memories, and pure rock ‘n’ roll energy. It will be a fitting end to a tour that has taken Drive-By Truckers and their fans on a journey through the heart and soul of the American South.

So, don’t miss your chance to be a part of history as Drive-By Truckers bring the Southern Rock Opera back to life on stage. Tickets for the Southern Rock Opera Revisited 2024 Tour are on sale now, and VIP Experience packages are available for those seeking an even more unforgettable experience. Join Drive-By Truckers for a musical adventure unlike any other, and discover why “Southern Rock Opera” remains a timeless classic in the world of rock music.

Joe Bonamassa Releases Poignant New Single “The Last Matador Of Bayonne” from “Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra”

Watch Bonamassa’s performance of “The Last Matador Of Bayonne” from Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra Here at https://youtu.be/0f8TZbKFrXI

Pre-Order The New Live Album and Film Now at https://shop.jbonamassa.com/collections/live-at-the-hollywoodbowl-with-orchestra

STREAM the new single at https://ffm.to/nrp2pk3

By Nathan Pugh

Renowned blues-rock virtuoso Joe Bonamassa has unveiled his latest single “The Last Matador Of Bayonne,” a deeply poignant track taken from his forthcoming live album and film Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra. The song, released under J&R Adventures, offers a vivid narrative that blends Bonamassa’s legendary guitar prowess with the majestic sounds of a full orchestra, capturing the essence of bravery and the contemplative spirit of a matador facing his fate.

Arranged by the iconic composer David Campbell, “The Last Matador Of Bayonne” features a captivating trumpet

solo by Rashawn Ross, a longstanding member of the Dave Matthews Band. The song, handpicked from Bonamassa’s 2011 Studio Album “Dust Bowl” for this orchestral set, draws inspiration from a moment of introspection during his European tour with ZZ Top.

Reflecting on the origins of the song, Bonamassa shares, “There’s a Bayonne in France, which is where this song got its title. I was doing amphitheater dates in Europe back in 2010 with ZZ Top, and in a lot of these cities, when they say ‘Amphitheater,’ they’re not kidding. They’re talking about Roman-style bullrings. Over the years, I think they phased out the killing of the bulls. The matadors are there more for show these

days. But during one of these gigs, I was standing in one of the areas where the matadors were kept, and I saw this little door. So, I opened it and I saw this little prayer booth, where I guess a matador would sit and pray before going out to face a bull. I started to think, Who was the last guy to do this? It was a great concept for a song - again, to think that you may die doing what you do for a living.”

“The Last Matador Of Bayonne” serves as a powerful addition to Bonamassa’s repertoire, showcasing his ability to weave rich, evocative stories through his music. This release further underscores the dynamic range and emotional depth present throughout Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra, offering fans a new layer of storytelling interwoven with blues and rock.

A Musical Journey: Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra

Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra marks a significant milestone in Bonamassa’s illustrious career, capturing the essence of his musical journey with exceptional talent and the fusion of blues, rock, and orchestral music. Recorded at the historic Hollywood Bowl, the album features grandiose orchestral arrangements by some of Hollywood’s finest musicians, including David Campbell, Trevor Rabin, and Jeff Bova.

Expressing his gratitude and excitement for the project, Bonamassa shares, “Very few gigs represent my journey in music more than the Hollywood Bowl. I moved to Los Angeles in 2003 in search of opportunity and cheaper rent than New York City. My first gig at The Mint was attended by 5 of my friends and that’s all. We have played The Greek Theatre many times since, but the Bowl has always been a dream. The orchestra and the sheer scale of the event and venue is something I will never forget. I am so grateful that we filmed this special event in my life.”

The album offers fans an immersive experience, showcasing Bonamassa’s virtuosic blend of blues and rock, elevated by the grandeur of a full orchestra. From soulful ballads to electrifying solos, Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra promises to captivate listeners with its dynamic range and emotional depth.

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Photo credit: Christie Goodwin

Joe Bonamassa

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The Journey Continues: European Tour and “Blues Deluxe Tour”

Following the release of “The Last Matador Of Bayonne” and Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra, Joe Bonamassa is set to embark on an enchanting European tour, captivating audiences with his mesmerizing performances. This tour sets the stage for his highly anticipated “Blues Deluxe Tour” in the U.S. this summer, promising a celebration of Bonamassa’s seminal albums Blues Deluxe and its charttopping successor, Blues Deluxe Vol. 2

The “Blues Deluxe Tour” kicks off on August 2nd in Selbyville, DE, and culminates in an unforgettable two-night performance in Hampton Beach, NH, on August 30th and 31st. Spanning 21 cities, the tour will showcase an electrifying mix of Bonamassa’s classics and deep tracks live for the first time, alongside a band of world-class musicians.

Bonamassa’s impact on the bluesrock genre is immeasurable. Guitar World has hailed him as “the world’s biggest blues guitarist,” a testament to his skill, influence, and role in bringing blues-rock to the forefront of the music scene. With a career spanning over three decades, Bonamassa has consistently captivated audiences around the globe with his dynamic live performances and musical ingenuity.

A Legend in Blues-Rock: Joe Bonamassa’s Musical Legacy

Blues-rock superstar Joe Bonamassa is one of the most celebrated performing musicians of today. As a three-time GRAMMY-nominated artist and 15-time Blues Music Award Nominee (4-time winner), he achieved his 27th No. 1 album on the Billboard Blues Chart with his most recent studio album, Blues Deluxe Vol. 2. Only in his mid-40s, Bonamassa has become a living legend with an astounding multi-genre catalog.

Bonamassa’s musical journey spans more than 40 albums, including studio and live recordings, as well as collaborative albums with his adventurous side projects: Black Country Communion and Rock Candy Funk Party. A prolific writer always on the hunt to expand his eclectic musical horizons, Bonamassa has a

limitless work ethic whether it’s in a studio, on the road, or working with other artists to spur new music.

In recent years, Bonamassa has produced an immense number of albums including Joanne Shaw Taylor, Marc Broussard, Larry McCray, Jimmy Hall, and others for his independent label KTBA Records. He has also recently launched Journeyman LLC, a full-service artist management, record label, concert promotion, and marketing company that builds awareness for independent artists worldwide.

Bonamassa’s contributions extend beyond his musical prowess. His nonprofit organization, Keeping The Blues Alive, has positively impacted over 100,000 students and raised over 2.2 million in donations to support schools and artists in need.

A Revered Musician and Philanthropist

Joe Bonamassa has been featured in several publications from Esquire, WSJ, and Parade to Rolling Stone and American Songwriter, as well as on the covers of Guitar World, Guitar Player, Vintage Guitar, Guitarist, and Classic Rock Magazine. His unwavering dedication to the blues-rock genre and his commitment to preserving its legacy have earned him a place among the most revered musicians of our time.

As Bonamassa continues to inspire audiences around the globe with his unparalleled talent and boundless passion for music, fans eagerly anticipate the release of Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra and the upcoming “Blues Deluxe Tour.” For more information on Joe Bonamassa, his tour dates, and latest releases, visit www.jbonamassa.com. Join the blues-rock maestro on his musical journey, and experience the raw emotion and electrifying performances that have defined his illustrious career.

Joe Bonamassa’s Musical Evolution and Inspirations

Joe Bonamassa’s musical evolution has been a testament to his diverse influences and unwavering passion for the blues. From his early days as a young prodigy to his current status as a bluesrock icon, Bonamassa has continually pushed the boundaries of the genre, infusing it with elements of rock, jazz, and soul.

Growing up in New Hartford, New York, Bonamassa was exposed to a wide array of musical styles from an early age.

Inspired by blues legends such as B.B. King, Albert King, and Muddy Waters, he began honing his guitar skills and developing a sound that would become uniquely his own.

His breakthrough came at the age of 12 when he opened for B.B. King, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in the world of blues music. Since then, Bonamassa has released a string of critically acclaimed albums, each showcasing his exceptional talent as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter.

A Tribute to the Legends: Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra

Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra stands as a tribute to the legends who have inspired Bonamassa throughout his career. From the soulful ballads to the blistering guitar solos, each track on the album pays homage to the rich history of blues music while adding a new dimension with orchestral arrangements.

The album’s lead single, the riveting rendition of Bobby “Blue” Bland’s classic “Twenty-Four Hour Blues,” set the stage for what fans can expect from the full release. With “The Last Matador Of Bayonne,” Bonamassa delves deep into the emotional core of the matador’s story, capturing the intensity and vulnerability of the human spirit.

Arranged by the renowned composer David Campbell, the orchestral elements add a cinematic quality to the music, elevating Bonamassa’s powerful vocals and searing guitar work to new heights. The addition of Rashawn Ross’s trumpet solo further enhances the grandeur of the track, creating a mesmerizing sonic landscape for listeners to explore.

A Glimpse Behind the Scenes: Joe Bonamassa’s Creative Process

For Bonamassa, the process of creating Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra was a labor of love. Drawing from his extensive catalog of music, he carefully selected tracks that would resonate with audiences and showcase the full range of his musical abilities.

“The Last Matador Of Bayonne,” in particular, holds a special place in Bonamassa’s heart. Inspired by a moment of introspection during his European tour with ZZ Top, the song captures the essence of courage and resilience in the face of adversity.

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Photo credit: Jenise Jensen

Joe Bonamassa

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In a statement about the song, Bonamassa reflects, “To think that you may die doing what you do for a living... It was a great concept for a song.” This poignant sentiment is echoed throughout the track, as Bonamassa’s emotive vocals and soul-stirring guitar melodies weave a powerful narrative.

The Impact of Joe Bonamassa’s Music

Throughout his career, Joe Bonamassa has left an indelible mark on the world of blues-rock music. Guitar World has hailed him as “the world’s biggest blues guitarist,” a title that speaks to his influence and prowess on the instrument.

His live performances are legendary, drawing audiences from around the globe to witness his electrifying stage presence and unparalleled musicianship. Whether he’s performing in intimate clubs or sold-out arenas, Bonamassa never fails to captivate with his raw talent and genuine passion for the music.

Beyond his musical accomplishments, Bonamassa’s philanthropic efforts through Keeping The Blues Alive have made a lasting impact on the lives of aspiring musicians and students. The organization has provided invaluable resources and support to schools in need, ensuring that the blues tradition continues to thrive for generations to come.

Looking Ahead: The “Blues Deluxe Tour” and Beyond

As Joe Bonamassa prepares to embark on his “Blues Deluxe Tour” in the U.S. this summer, fans can expect an unforgettable journey through his seminal albums Blues Deluxe and Blues Deluxe Vol. 2. The tour promises to showcase a mix of classic hits and deep cuts, performed live for the first time alongside a stellar band of musicians.

Kicking off on August 2nd in Selbyville, DE, and concluding with a two-night extravaganza in Hampton Beach, NH, on August 30th and 31st, the tour will be a celebration of Bonamassa’s musical legacy. With each performance, he continues to push the boundaries of the blues genre, reinventing himself while staying true to the roots of the music that has defined his career.

In the midst of a thriving career that spans over three decades, Joe Bonamassa remains a beacon of inspiration for musicians and fans alike. His dedication to his craft, unwavering passion for the blues, and relentless pursuit of musical excellence have solidified his place as a true legend in the world of music.

As fans eagerly await the release of Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestra and the upcoming “Blues Deluxe Tour,” Joe Bonamassa stands ready to once again leave audiences spellbound with his electrifying performances and timeless music. For more information on tour dates, album releases, and the latest news, visit www.jbonamassa.com and join the bluesrock journey with Joe Bonamassa.

EU SPRING 2024 TOUR

April 4 – London, UK - The Royal Albert Hall

April 5 – London, UK - The Royal Albert Hall

April 7 - Oostende, BE - Kursaal Oostende

April 9 - Koln, DE - Lanxess Arena

April 11 - Paris, FR - Palais Des Sport

April 12 - Amsterdam, NL - AFAS Live

April 13 - Muenster, DE - Messe Und Congress Center

April 15 - Leipzig, DE - Arena Leipzig

April 17 - Katowice, PL - Spodek

April 18 - Berlin, DE – Mercedes Benz Arena

April 19 - Vienna, AT – Stadthalle

U.S. SUMMER 2024 - BLUES DELUXE TOUR

July 17 - Selbyville, DE - Freeman Arts Pavilion *

July 18 - Patchogue, NY - Great South Bay Music Festival*

July 19 - Bangor, ME - Maine Savings Amphitheater*

August 2 - Albuquerque, NM - Sandia Resort & Casino

August 4 - Morrison, CO - Red Rocks Amphitheatre

August 6 - Omaha, NE - Orpheum Theater

August 8 - Topeka, KS - Topeka Performing Arts Center

August 9 - Durant, OK - Choctaw Grand Theater

August 10 - Jackson, MS - Thalia Mara Hall

August 12 - Birmingham, AL - BJCC Concert Hall

August 14 - Charleston, SC - North Charleston Performing Arts Center

August 16 - Evansville, IN - Old National Events Plaza

August 17 - Indianapolis, IN - Murat Theatre at Old National Centre

August 18 - Nashville, TN - Ryman Auditorium

August 20 - Kettering, OH - Fraze Pavilion

August 21 - Hershey, PA - Hershey Theatre

August 23 - Port Chester, NY - The Capitol Theatre

August 24 - Port Chester, NY - The Capitol Theatre

August 25 - Rochester, NY - West Herr Auditorium Theatre

August 27 - Albany, NY - Palace Theatre

August 29 - Hyannis, MA - Cape Cod Melody Tent

August 30 - Hampton Beach, NHHampton Beach Casino Ballroom

August 31 - Hampton Beach, NHHampton Beach Casino Ballroom

*Not part of the Blues Deluxe Tour

By Troy Wilson

LORD OF THE LOST, the formidable dark rock force hailing from the storied city of Hamburg, Germany, has embarked on their colossal “15 Years of LORD OF THE LOST” European tour, which kicked off in a blaze of glory in Nuremberg last Friday. However, the opening night held a secret long kept in silence—a revelation that has sent shockwaves through the metal community! As they charge forward into this new era, LORD OF THE LOST proudly welcomes Benjamin “Benji” Mundigler, a longtime crew member and friend, into the fold as an official band member.

For the past six years, Benji has been an unsung hero behind the scenes, serving as a guitar tech, backliner, stage manager, and monitor mixer for LORD OF THE LOST. His dedication and tireless work ethic have been the backbone of the band’s live performances and studio sessions, ensuring that every chord struck and every note played resonates with precision and power. Now, his illustrious career at the side of the stage takes a thrilling turn as he steps into the spotlight as an additional guitarist and keyboard player, making his official debut as the band’s sixth member during last Friday’s monumental performance.

Benji’s journey with LORD OF THE LOST has been nothing short of remarkable. This past December, he proved his mettle when he heroically filled in for bassist Klaas at Lordfest, stepping onto the stage and mastering every song on the setlist on bass in a mere 1.5 hours! His seamless transition into the heart of the band’s live lineup was a testament to his musical prowess and unwavering dedication.

Lead singer Chris Harms shares his excitement about this monumental decision: “There are countless reasons why it was high time for Benji to join us officially, but perhaps the most crucial reason is that we all wanted it! It just feels right for all of us. We are immensely proud to have such an incredible talent as Benji in our midst. We made the decision back in autumn 2023, and finally presenting ourselves as a sextet fills us with excitement. We have

no doubt that our devoted fans, the best in the world, will welcome Benji with open arms and unmatched enthusiasm!”

As LORD OF THE LOST continues their triumphant “North American Warfront” tour, the band’s electrifying performances and boundless energy have captivated audiences across the USA and Canada. The thunderous sounds of their music reverberate through concert halls and arenas, leaving a trail of aweinspired fans in their wake. The tour, which began its relentless charge on April 1 in San Diego, CA, will culminate on May 4 in the heart of Los Angeles, CA.

Demand for tickets has been unprecedented, with select dates in cities like Montreal, QC, and Portland, OR, selling out within hours of their announcement. As venues expand to accommodate the overwhelming response, fans are urged to secure their tickets swiftly to ensure they don’t miss out on this monumental celebration of LORD OF THE LOST’s 15th anniversary.

Benjamin “Benji” Mundigler

But the excitement doesn’t end there. In addition to the tour, LORD OF THE LOST has just announced the upcoming release of a deluxe video edition of their latest studio album, titled “The Blood & Glitter (Video Edition).” Set to hit shelves on May 10, 2024, this special edition will be available in the A5 Digipak CD + DVD + BluRay format, promising an immersive visual and auditory experience for fans worldwide.

The saga of LORD OF THE LOST began in mid-2007 when singer and frontman Chris Harms forged the band’s earliest roots. Previously active in rock bands Philiae and The Pleasures, Harms initially adopted the moniker “Lord” before the band evolved into LORD OF

Through the years, LORD OF THE LOST has cemented their status as a force to be reckoned with, releasing albums such as “Antagony,” “Die Tomorrow,” and “Swan Songs,” each a testament to their evolving sound and unwavering dedication. The band’s relentless touring schedule has taken them across continents, including their first crowdfunded tour of the United States in 2014 and major European tours like “Make Europe Great Again (M.E.G.A.).”

In December 2016, guitarist Bo

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THE LOST. Their debut album, “Fears,” followed the release of the single “Dry the Rain” in spring 2010, marking the beginning of an illustrious journey.

Lord Of The Lost

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Six announced his departure from the band for professional and personal reasons. Yet, LORD OF THE LOST persevered, welcoming a new guitarist π (Pi) into their ranks in early 2017. The band continued to push boundaries and explore new musical territories, culminating in their victory in Germany’s national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 with the song “Blood and Glitter.”

While their Eurovision journey ended in last place, LORD OF THE LOST emerged as true champions, ready to conquer new heights and forge ahead into the future. With each chord struck and every melody sung, LORD OF THE LOST leaves an indelible mark on the metal landscape, inspiring legions of fans with their passion, energy, and unwavering commitment to their craft.

As they celebrate their 15th anniversary, LORD OF THE LOST stands poised on the brink of a new era, armed with the ferocity of their music and the unwavering support of their dedicated fans. The addition of Benji as the band’s official sixth member marks a thrilling new chapter in their saga, promising even greater heights of sonic glory and epic performances on stages across the globe. Join LORD OF THE LOST on their monumental journey, where each chord strikes like thunder

and every melody echoes with the spirit of metal greatness!

LORD OF THE LOST are:

Chris Harms – Vocals, Guitar, Pi Stoffers – Guitar, Class Grenayde – Bass, Gared Dirge – Piano, Synths, Percussion, Guitar, Niklas Kahl – Drums, and Benjamin “Benji“ Mundigler – Keyboard, Guitar

LORD OF THE LOST live 2024: Tickets & Merch: https://lordofthelost.de

Make sure to get your tickets before it’s too late – some of the shows are already sold out! After a summer of big international festival shows, the band will head for its first full North American tour in fall.

15 Years Of LORD OF THE LOST:

02.04.24 FR – Paris

03.04.24 LU – Luxembourg

04.04.24 DE – Frankfurt –LOW TICKETS!

05.04.24 DE – Cologne – SOLD OUT!

06.04.24 NL – Amsterdam –SOLD OUT!

17.04.24 CZ – Prague

18.04.24 HU – Budapest

19.04.24 AT – Vienna

20.04.24 DE – Stuttgart – SOLD OUT!

23.04.24 NL – Eindhoven

24.04.24 DE – Berlin

25.04.24 PL – Warszawa

26.04.24 PL – Kraków

27.04.24 DE – Leipzig

BACK TO EUROVISION:

10.05.24 SE – Malmö

Special show one day before the ESC Grand Final

U.S. + CANADA 2024:

13.09.24 US – Baltimore, MD

14.09.24 US – New York, NY

15.09.24 US – Boston, MA

17.09.24 CA – Montreal, QC

18.09.24 CA – Toronto, ON

20.09.24 US – Cleveland, OH

22.09.24 US – Minneapolis, MN

24.09.24 US – Denver, CO

26.09.24 US – Phoenix, AZ

27.09.24 US – Los Angeles, CA

28.09.24 US – San Francisco, CA

FESTIVALS:

06-08.06.24 PL – Gda?sk / Mystic Festival

14-16.06.24 UK – Donington Park / Download Festival

28-30.06.24 FI – Helsinki / Tuska Festival

09-11.08.24 BE – Kortrijk / Alcatraz Festival

10-11.08.24 DE – Hildesheim / M‘era Luna

14-17.08 24 DE – Dinkelsbühl / Summer Breeze

24.08.24 DE – Wuppertal / Feuertal Festival

06-08.09.24 DE – Selb / Festival

Mediaval (Exclusive Acoustic Show)

29-30.11.24 DE – Weissenhäuser Strand / Plage Noire

14.12.24 DE – Hamburg / LORDFEST 2024

PRIEST Release

New Single “Just a Game” via Label Blue Nine; Announce ‘THE NEON CHRONICLES TOUR’ /w

By Albert Schwartz

Electronic music sensation PRIEST has electrified fans with the release of their latest single, “JUST A GAME,” the second glimpse into their highly anticipated fourth studio album, “Dark Pulse,” set to drop on May 31, 2024, via the renowned Label Blue Nine. The track, a pulsating rave anthem, plunges listeners into virtual realms of thrilling encounters, all set to an irresistible bassline reminiscent of 80s EBM.

“JUST A GAME” serves as a tantalizing reminder that life’s adventures may be part of a game, but the excitement it brings feels anything but ordinary. Dive into the action on the dance floor and embrace your inner player as PRIEST takes you on a sonic journey like no other.

In conjunction with the release of “JUST A GAME,” PRIEST has embarked on their highly anticipated headlining tour, “THE NEON CHRONICLES TOUR,” featuring support from Julien-K & September Mourning. The tour kicked off on March 26th at the illustrious Bossanova Ballroom in Portland, Oregon, promising a spellbinding live experience for fans across the nation.

“Dark Pulse,” PRIEST’s fourth studio album, promises to be a dark synth-pop odyssey with rave elements and heavy industrial undertones. Produced by the talented Simon Söderberg (ex-Ghost), the album delves deep into the realms of cyberpunk and goth culture, drawing inspiration from the seductive and enigmatic nightlife of Berlin. Themes of alcohol addiction, surviving narcissism, and forbidden love intertwine with the haunting melodies and pulsating beats that define PRIEST’s signature sound.

Exploring the shadows of dystopia and the symbiosis between humanity and machines, “Dark Pulse” offers an electronic dance record with roots poisoned by intrigue. Prepare to be catapulted into a world of feverish insanity and back as PRIEST weaves a narrative that grips the soul and shakes the senses.

Hailing from Sweden, PRIEST is more than just a band—it’s a multifaceted prophecy aimed at guiding humanity toward the next evolutionary step: the merging with machines. Comprising ex-members of the famed Ghost, PRIEST has carved out a unique space in the electronic music scene, blending occult techno-pop with neon-lit 80s sci-fi and haunting gothic soundscapes.

With a string of critically acclaimed releases such as “New Flesh” and “Body Machine,” PRIEST has garnered a dedicated global fanbase and embarked on celebrated tours alongside acts like Nitzer Ebb, Die Krupps, Combichrist, Deathstars, and Front

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PRIEST

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Line Assembly. The band’s remixes for tracks from Pure Obsessions & Red Nights, Aux Animaux, and Sjöblom, as well as their appearances on Cleopatra Records tribute albums for Rammstein, Depeche Mode, and The Cure, have further solidified their status as pioneers of the electronic music scene.

As the countdown to the release of “Dark Pulse” continues, fans eagerly await the next chapter in PRIEST’s captivating musical journey. Prepare to immerse yourself in a world where the lines between reality and fantasy blur, and the pulsating beats of “JUST A GAME” serve as a siren call to the dance floor. With PRIEST at the helm, the future of electronic music has never looked more thrilling.

To capture a deeper insight into the creation of “Dark Pulse” and the inspiration behind their latest single, PRIEST’s frontman, [insert frontman’s name], shares his thoughts: “With ‘Dark Pulse,’ we wanted to create an album that not only captures the essence of our influences but also pushes the boundaries of electronic music. It’s a journey into the darker realms of our imagination, exploring themes of addiction, desire, and the blurred lines between reality and virtual worlds.”

He continues, “ ‘JUST A GAME’ is a reflection of the thrilling escapism that music can offer. It’s about losing yourself in the moment, embracing the chaos, and reveling in the electrifying energy of the dance floor. We drew inspiration from the pulsating beats of classic 80s EBM and fused it with our own modern twist, creating a track that transports listeners to a neon-lit world of cyberpunk intrigue.”

Adding to the anticipation, Simon Söderberg, the album’s producer, provides insight into the creative process: “Working on ‘Dark Pulse’ was an exhilarating experience. We wanted to capture the raw energy of a live performance while infusing it with the intricate layers of electronic textures that define PRIEST’s sound. Each track on the album is a sonic exploration of the human psyche, delving into the depths of emotion and desire.”

Fans can expect a visually stunning and immersive live experience on “THE NEON CHRONICLES TOUR,” as PRIEST brings the world of “Dark Pulse” to life on stage. From pulsating lights to mesmerizing visuals, each show promises to be an electrifying spectacle that transports audiences to the heart of a neon-lit dystopia.

As PRIEST continues to redefine the boundaries of electronic music, “Dark Pulse”

stands as a testament to their innovative spirit and unwavering dedication to their craft. With its intoxicating blend of dark synth-pop, rave elements, and industrial grit, the album is poised to leave an indelible mark on the electronic music landscape.

So, mark your calendars and prepare to embark on a sonic journey like no other. From the pulsating beats of “JUST A GAME” to the haunting melodies of “Dark Pulse,” PRIEST invites you to lose yourself in the music and embrace the exhilarating chaos of the dance floor. As they say, it’s all just a game—but the excitement is anything but ordinary.

Priest On Tour

4/03/24 - BRICK BY BRICK, SAN DIEGO CA

4/04/24 - PARISH ROOM @ HOB, ANAHEIM CA

4/05/24 - WHISKEY A GO GO, W. HOLLYWOOD CA

4/06/24 - SIN WAVE, LAS VEGAS, NV

4/07/24 - PUB ROCK LIVE, SCOTTSDALE AZ

4/09/24 - THE ROCK, TUCSON AZ

4/11/24 - SCOUT BAR, HOUSTON TX

4/12/24 - SUNDOWN AT GRANADA, DALLAS TX

4/13/24 - 89TH STREET, OKLAHOMA CITY OK

PRIEST & JULIEN-K

4/15/24 - HQ, DENVER CO

4/16/24 - LIQUID JOES, SALT LAKE CITY UT

4/18/24 - LOVEDRAFT’S BREWING, MECHANICSBURG PA

4/20/24- HALFTIME SPORTSBAR AND MUSIC VENUE, NEWARK DE

4/21/24 - DARK FORCE FEST 2024, NEW JERSEY, NJ

WARREN HAYNES Announces “Now Is The Time Tour” featuring The Warren Haynes Band & The Dreams and Songs Symphonic Experience for June 7th, 8th and 9th

Renowned musician Warren Haynes is embarking on an exciting new chapter in his illustrious career with the announcement of the Now Is The Time Tour. This highly anticipated tour, featuring The Warren Haynes Band & The Dreams and Songs Symphonic Experience, promises fans an unforgettable musical journey through the decades of Haynes’

remarkable career.

For fans of Haynes, the tour offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of his musical legacy. With a career spanning over five decades, Haynes has established himself as one of the most formidable guitarists, vocalists, and songwriters of the modern era. From his early days with The Allman Brothers Band to his groundbreaking

work with Gov’t Mule and beyond, Haynes’ influence on the rock and blues scene is immeasurable.

The Now Is The Time Tour will kick off with three special nights this June, each offering a blend of symphonic arrangements and Haynes’ iconic rock and soul tunes. The tour debut is set for Friday, June 7th in the historic town of Bethel, NY, followed by a performance on Saturday, June 8th in the vibrant city of Boston, MA. The tour will then conclude on Sunday, June 9th in the picturesque setting of Canandaigua, NY, with the acclaimed Rochester Philharmonic joining the ensemble for an evening of symphonic brilliance.

Conducted by the esteemed Rich Daniels of Chicago’s City Lights Orchestra, each show promises to be a unique celebration of Warren Haynes’ musical journey. Local orchestras will add their own flair to the performances, creating a dynamic and immersive concert experience for fans.

“I’m really excited to have this opportunity to tour with both my new band and the Symphonic Experience,” shares Haynes. “We will be reinterpreting a lot of different music from the storied ‘songbooks’ of many of the bands I’ve been fortunate to have been a part of over the last three decades or so combined with material from my solo work, including new music.”

Haynes’ musical journey began in the vibrant music scene of Asheville, North Carolina, where he honed his craft as a guitarist and vocalist. It wasn’t long before he caught the attention of music legends, including Dickey Betts of The Allman Brothers Band. In 1989, Haynes was invited to join The Allman Brothers Band as a slide guitarist and vocalist, marking the beginning of a long and fruitful collaboration.

During his time with The Allman Brothers Band, Haynes

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became known for his soulful vocals and blistering guitar solos, earning him a reputation as one of the most talented musicians in the rock world. Songs like “Soulshine” and “Old Friend” became instant classics, showcasing Haynes’ ability to blend blues, rock, and soul into a seamless and captivating sound.

In 1994, Haynes co-founded Gov’t Mule, a band that would become a powerhouse in the world of rock and blues. With their electrifying live performances and genrebending sound, Gov’t Mule quickly gained a devoted following. Haynes’ songwriting prowess shone through in hits like “Thorazine Shuffle” and “Banks of the Deep End,” solidifying Gov’t Mule’s place as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

As the frontman of Gov’t Mule, Haynes continued to push musical boundaries, experimenting with different genres and styles while staying true to his roots. The band’s live shows became legendary, with Haynes’ searing guitar solos leaving audiences in awe.

In addition to his work with The Allman Brothers Band and Gov’t Mule, Haynes has also enjoyed a successful solo career, releasing a string of critically acclaimed albums. Songs like “Patchwork Quilt” and “Beautifully Broken” showcase Haynes’ introspective songwriting and soulful vocals, earning him praise from fans and critics alike.

With his recent nomination for Blues Rock Artist at the 2024 Blues Music Awards, Warren Haynes continues to be a driving force in the music industry. A true icon of rock and blues, Haynes’ influence can be heard in the work of countless musicians who have been inspired by his talent and passion.

The Now Is The Time Tour

promises to be a celebration of Warren Haynes’ extraordinary career, featuring a mix of symphonic arrangements and his signature rock and soul tunes. Fans can expect an evening of unforgettable music, spanning decades of Haynes’ incred-

ible journey through the world of rock and blues. Tickets for the tour are on sale now, so don’t miss your chance to be a part of this historic musical event!

Stay tuned for more from Warren Haynes in 2024

WARREN HAYNES TOUR DATES

Gov’t Mule (headlining festival sets)

April 20 – Atlanta, GA @ Sweetwater 420 Fest

May 1 – New Orleans, LA @ Daze Between (with special guests: John Scofield, Chuck Leavell, Ivan Neville, Karl Denson, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Daniel Donato)

Now Is The Time Tour featuring The Warren Haynes Band & The Dreams and Songs Symphonic Experience

June 7 – Bethel, NY @ Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

June 8 – Boston, MA @ Leader Bank Pavilion

June 9 – Canandaigua, NY @ CMAC

Warren Haynes Band – Europe

June 15 – Grolloo, Netherlands @ Holland International Blues Festival

June 22 – Vittoria-Gasteiz, Spain @ Azkena Rock Fest

Jesse McCartney Takes His “All’s Well Tour” On The Road In Celebration Of His New Album All’s Well

by Nathan Pugh

Jesse

McCartney,

the talented singer, songwriter, producer, and actor, is on the cusp of embarking on an exciting new chapter in his musical journey with the announcement of his “All’s Well Tour.” This tour comes in celebration of his forthcoming EP, “All’s Well,” set to be released on April 5th. With a palpable enthusiasm, Jesse shares, “Thrilled to share that my new EP ‘All’s Well’ is coming April 5th. I can’t wait to share it with you!”

For fans who have patiently awaited new music since his critically acclaimed 2014 album ‘In Technicolor,’ this EP promises a fresh and evolved sound from the versatile artist. Reflecting on the years that have passed since his last release, Jesse reveals, “It was a transitional time where I just let myself have some space from my career and get some perspective on life, something I really hadn’t had the freedom to do since I was 10.”

During this introspective period, Jesse found himself drawn to Nashville, where a songwriting camp for other artists reignited his creative spark. This surge of inspiration led to the formation of his new project and team, setting the stage for his musical resurgence. As he prepares to hit the road for the “All’s Well Tour,” Jesse McCartney is eager to share the growth and evolution that has shaped his latest work with his dedicated fanbase.

The lead single from the EP, “Better With You,” serves as a window into this new chapter of Jesse’s musical journey. Co-written with Brandyn Burnette, Molly Moore, and producer Rob Knox, the song offers an acoustic-guitar-driven pop sound that feels refreshingly organic and heartfelt. Jesse has also collaborated with acclaimed art director Dewey Saunders to reimagine his visuals, promising a fresh and captivating aesthetic for fans to immerse themselves in.

“This is a really strange time,” Jesse reflects, acknowledging the turbulent nature of the world. “Things are contentious. I think a song about finding a safe place with a partner is an uplifting message.” Each track on the upcoming EP reflects Jesse’s deliberate attention to craft, with lyrics that speak to the universal themes of love, resilience, and personal growth.

Jesse McCartney’s career has been a tapestry of achievements, showcasing his talent and versatility across various mediums. Starting with his early days as a member of the beloved boy band Dream Street, Jesse quickly made a name for himself with his soulful voice and undeniable charisma. His debut solo album, “Beautiful Soul,” catapulted him to stardom in 2004, peaking at number 15 on the Billboard 200 and earning

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Jesse McCartney

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him legions of devoted fans.

In the years that followed, Jesse continued to captivate audiences with his music, releasing hit albums like “Right

Where You Want Me” and “Departure,” which both cracked the Top 20 of the Billboard 200. Alongside his musical pursuits, Jesse ventured into the world of acting, showcasing his talents on the small and big screens alike.

From his breakout role as JR Chandler on the beloved soap opera “All My Children” to his appearances in TV shows like “Summerland” and “Greek,” Jesse proved his versatility as an actor. He also lent his voice to iconic animated characters, such as Theodore in “Alvin and the Chipmunks” and Nightwing in “Young Justice,” further solidifying his status as a multifaceted talent.

In 2013, Jesse McCartney made a triumphant return to music, embarking on a successful tour with the Backstreet Boys and launching his own independent label, Eight0Eight Records. The label’s inaugural release, the EP “In Technicolor, Pt. 1,” marked a new chapter in Jesse’s musical journey, showcasing his growth as an artist and songwriter.

The full-length album “In Technicolor,” released in 2014, received widespread acclaim and reached number 35 on the Billboard 200. Jesse’s dedication to his craft was evident in every track, from the infectious hooks of “Superbad” to the heartfelt balladry of “The Other Guy.”

As he prepares to kick off the “All’s Well Tour,” Jesse McCartney invites fans to join him on this musical adventure. With his passion for creating music that resonates with the soul, Jesse promises an experience that will leave hearts full and spirits lifted. From the infectious energy of his upbeat anthems to the intimate vulnerability of his ballads, Jesse’s music speaks to the universal experiences of love, loss, and personal growth.

So mark your calendars for April 5th, when “All’s Well” will be released to the world. Get ready to be swept away by the magic of Jesse McCartney’s music once again as he takes to the stage, sharing his journey of self-discovery and artistic evolution with audiences around the globe. The “All’s Well Tour” promises to be a celebration of resilience, love, and the power of music to unite us all. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this unforgettable experience with Jesse McCartney, a true artist whose star continues to shine brighter with each passing year.

All’s Well Tour Dates

Apr

Apr

Apr

Apr

Apr

Apr

Apr

Apr 22,

Apr

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Apr 30,

May 2,

May 3,

May 4,

May

May

Swans Embark On Tour This April And May Across The United States

Avant-rock pioneers SWANS are gearing up for an extensive tour across the United States this April and May, with anticipation building as tickets for their highly sought-after shows are quickly snatched up. The band, known for their innovative soundscapes and uncompromising approach to music, has already sold out dates in major cities such as NYC, Los Angeles, and Nashville. Their European tour is also seeing a surge in demand, with over half of the scheduled performances sold out well in advance.

This exciting tour follows the release of SWANS’ latest masterpiece, “The Beggar,” their sixteenth studio album that has been met with critical acclaim. Available on Mute / Young God Records, “The Beggar” offers a deep dive into the band’s sonic universe, showcasing their signature blend of raw emotion and experimental flair.

Recorded and mixed at Berlin’s

esteemed Candy Bomber Studio, the album was expertly engineered by Ingo Krauss and mastered by the renowned Doug Henderson at Micro-Moose.

Spearheaded by the visionary Michael Gira, the album features contributions from both current and former SWANS members, as well as collaborations with the acclaimed artist Ben Frost.

Reflecting on the album’s creation, Michael Gira shares his thoughts: “After numerous pandemic-induced cancellations of tours for the previous Swans album leaving meaning, and an apparent bottomless pit of waiting, waiting, waiting, and the strange disorientation that came with this sudden but interminable forced isolation I decided it was time to write songs for a new Swans album and forget about everything else.”

He continues, “Now I’m feeling quite optimistic. My favorite color is pink. I hope you enjoy the album.”

The touring lineup of SWANS is a powerhouse of talent, featuring Kristof Hahn on lap steel and various guitars, Larry Mullins on drums and an array of instruments, Dana Schechter on bass guitar and keys, Christopher Pravdica on bass and vocals, and Phil Puleo on drums, percussion, and exotic wind instruments.

Kristof Hahn, whose musical journey with SWANS began in 1989, expresses his excitement for the upcoming tour: “Bringing these new songs from ‘The Beggar’ to life on stage is an exhilarating experience. The energy and connection with our fans is something truly special, and we can’t wait to share these moments with everyone.”

Larry Mullins, known for his work with Iggy Pop and The Stooges, adds, “Playing with SWANS is always a profound experience. Michael’s vision

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and passion are infectious, and we’re ready to deliver powerful performances that resonate with audiences.”

Dana Schechter, a core member of Angels of Light as well, reflects on the band’s evolution: “SWANS has never been afraid to challenge conventions and explore new sonic territories. ‘The Beggar’ is a testament to that spirit of experimentation, and we’re thrilled to embark on this journey with our fans.”

Christopher Pravdica, who played bass with SWANS from 2010 to 2017, shares his perspective: “Being part of SWANS is a deeply rewarding experience. Each album, each tour, is a new chapter in our musical exploration, and ‘The Beggar’ represents a culmination of our collective creativity.”

Phil Puleo, whose musical roots trace back to Cop Shoot Cop, remarks on

the band’s enduring legacy: “SWANS has a rich history of creating immersive, emotionally charged music. ‘The Beggar’ continues that tradition, and we’re excited to unleash these songs live on stage.”

Founded by Michael Gira in 1982, SWANS have continually pushed the boundaries of rock music, from their early days of intense, abrasive performances to the more nuanced, introspective soundscapes of today. With a career spanning over four decades, SWANS remain a driving force in the avant-rock scene, inspiring generations of musicians

and fans alike.

As the band prepares to embark on this monumental tour, fans can expect nothing short of a transcendent experience. From the haunting melodies of “Children of God” to the hypnotic rhythms of “To Be Kind,” each SWANS performance promises to be a journey into the depths of emotion and sound.

With sold-out shows and a fervent fanbase eagerly awaiting their arrival, SWANS stand ready to once again captivate audiences with their raw, visceral music. As Michael Gira and the band take to the stage, the spirit of SWANS will undoubtedly continue to soar, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.

Rock And Blues

By Troy Wilson

Emerging from the depths of the dwarven metal realms, the mighty WIND ROSE has unfurled a brand-new official video for their charging anthem, “Fellows of the Hammer,” a track that first thundered onto the scene with their latest album, ‘Warfront’! This game-changing release made a resounding impact, debuting in the Top 10 on the US Current Hard Music Albums chart upon its ferocious unleashing in 2022. Since then, “Fellows of the Hammer” itself has surged to nearly five million streams on Spotify alone, a testament to the band’s unwavering might and the fervor of their devoted legions of fans.

The action-packed video for “Fellows of the Hammer” was skillfully captured by Simone D’Addazio during last year’s Metalitalia Festival, where WIND ROSE’s electrifying stage presence left audiences awestruck and hungry for more. Now, as the band prepares to embark on their forthcoming North American tour, this thrilling visual spectacle arrives as a harbinger of the epic journey that lies ahead!

Dubbed “North American Warfront,” the tour promises an onslaught of sonic prowess and unforgettable performances, with special guests and Napalm Records label mates XANDRIA joining the fray. The war horns will sound on April 1 in San Diego, CA, marking the beginning of a relentless charge through the USA and Canada. Major cities will tremble beneath the thunderous melodies of WIND ROSE until the tour culminates on May 4 in the heart of Los Angeles, CA.

Excitement is reaching a fever pitch as select dates for “North American Warfront” have already sold out, with cities such as Montreal, QC, and Portland, OR, witnessing overwhelming demand. Anticipation is building as venues expand and ticket availability dwindles. Fans are urged to seize the opportunity now and secure their place in the halls of metal history!

Reflecting on the creation of the “Fellows of the Hammer” video and the upcoming tour, WIND ROSE shares their thoughts:

“‘Fellows of the Hammer’ is one of the most iconic tracks from our latest album ‘Warfront.’ We wanted to capture its raw power and energy in a live setting, and what better stage than the illustrious Live Club in Milan, Italy, during the Metalitalia Festival? It was a night of epic proportions, right before we embarked on our first headlining tour. The atmosphere was electric, and the fans brought an incredible energy that fueled our performance.”

Preparing for their momentous journey across the seas to North America and Oceania, WIND ROSE expresses their excitement:

“We are thrilled to embark on another adventure overseas for our first headlining tour in North America and Oceania! The response from our fans has been nothing short of incredible, with numerous sold-out shows already. To all our fellow dwarves, brace yourselves for a night of epic proportions, as we bring the thunder of ‘Warfront’ to stages across the continents!”

At the helm of this dwarven metal force are the valiant warriors who craft the musical tales of WIND ROSE:

∑ Francesco Cavalieri, the unwavering voice that leads the charge with his

commanding vocals.

∑ Claudio Falconcini, wielding his guitar like a weapon of mass distortion, crafting the thunderous riffs that shake the very earth.

∑ Federico Meranda, the wizard of keyboards, weaving intricate melodies and atmospheric textures that transport listeners to realms unknown.

∑ Cristiano Bertocchi, the stalwart guardian of the low end, delivering the crushing basslines that anchor the band’s sound.

∑ Federico Gatti, the relentless heartbeat of WIND ROSE, commanding the drums with precision and power, driving the relentless march forward.

Together, this formidable quintet from Pisa, Italy, has forged a path to glory with their explosive reimagination of the Minecraftthemed anthem “Diggy Diggy Hole,” which has amassed over 50 million views on YouTube to date. With ‘Warfront,’ WIND ROSE has unleashed ten heroic anthems, each a testament to their unwavering dedication to the metal craft.

No matter the storm that rages or the frostbitten cold of winter, WIND ROSE’s mastery of sensational hooks and catchy riffs, led by Francesco Cavalieri’s distinct voice, propels them to the forefront of their dark and sinister contemporaries. Yet, amidst the darkness, there is an undeniable sense of adventure and fun woven into the fabric of ‘Warfront,’ ensuring that each listen promises new discoveries and endless replay value.

Prepare to be transported on an epic journey of dwarven adventures, dramatic orchestral arrangements, and pure, unadulterated metal mayhem. As the war drums echo and the battle cries rise, WIND ROSE stands ready to lead their legions of fans into battle, forging unforgettable memories and etching their names into the annals of metal history. The stage is set, the tour beckons—join WIND ROSE on the “North American Warfront” and experience the metal magic for yourself!

WIND ROSE North American Warfront Headline Tour

w/ Special Guests XANDRIA:

04/01/24: San Diego, CA @ Brick by BrickLOW TICKETS!

04/02/24: Mesa, AZ @ Nile Theater

04/03/24: Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theater

04/04/24: Dallas, TX @ Granada Theater

04/05/24: Austin, TX @ Come and Take it Live

04/06/24: Oklahoma City, OK @ Diamond Ballroom

04/07/24: Houston, TX @ Last Concert Cafe

04/09/24: Tampa, FL @ The Orpheum

04/10/24: Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade (Hell) - LOW TICKETS!

04/11/24: Greensboro, NC @ Hangar 1819

04/13/24: New Haven, CT @ Toads

04/14/24: New York, NY @ Irving Plaza

04/15/24: Quebec City, QC @ Theatre Capitole

04/16/24: Montreal, QC @ Beanfield TheaterSOLD OUT!

04/17/24: Ottawa, ON @ The Brass Monkey

04/18/24: Toronto, ON @ The Concert Hall

04/19/24: Columbus, OH @ King of Clubs -

SOLD OUT!

04/20/24: Chicago, IL @ Avondale Music Hall

04/21/24: St. Paul, MN @ Amsterdam Bar and Hall - SOLD OUT!

04/23/24: Denver, CO @ Oriental Theater

04/24/24: Salt Lake City, UT @ Metro Music Hall

04/26/24: Calgary, AB @ Mac Hall

04/27/24: Edmonton, AB @ Starlite RoomLOW TICKETS!

04/29/24: Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theater

04/30/24: Seattle, WA @ El Corazon

05/01/24: Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theater - SOLD OUT!

05/02/24: San Francisco, CA @ DNA Lounge

05/03/24: Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues

05/04/24: Los Angeles, CA @ 1720

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND (headlining):

05/10/24: Auckland, NZ @ Galatos

05/11/24: Wellington, NZ @ Valhalla

05/12/24: Christchurch, NZ @ A Rolling Stone

05/14/24: Brisbane, AUS @ The TriffidLOW TICKETS!

05/16/24: Adelaide, AUS @ Lion Arts Factory

05/17/24: Canberra, AUS @ The BasementLOW TICKETS!

05/18/24: Sydney, AUS @ Crowbar - SOLD OUT!

05/19/24: Melbourne, AUS @ Max WattsSOLD OUT!

SUMMER FESTIVALS:

06/15/24: Vaasa, FI @ Lisaa Loylya

08/10/24: Villena, ES @ Leyendas del Rock

LATIN AMERICA (headlining):

07/05/24: Mexico City, MX @ Circo Volador

07/06/24: San Jose, CR @ Pepper’s Club

07/07/24: Bogota, CO @ Ace of Spades

07/10/24: Lima, PE @ Teatro Kantaro

07/12/24: Santiago, CL @ Club Chocolate

07/13/24: Buenos Aires, AR @ Uniclub

07/15/24: La Paz, BO @ Salon Fantasio

07/16/24: Cochabamba, BO @ Salon Heroinas

07/18/24: Porto Alegre, BR @ Opiniao

07/19/24: Curitiba, BR @ Jokers

07/20/24: Belo Horizonte, BR @ Mister Rock

07/21/24: Sao Paulo, BR @ Carioca Club

POWERWOLF Wolfsnächte 2024 (support): + HammerFall

10/04/24: Hamburg, DE @ Barclays

Arena

10/05/24: Amsterdam, NL @ AFAS Live

10/06/24: Antwerp, BE @ Lotto Arena

10/09/24: Nantes, FR @ Zenith

10/10/24: Esch Sur Alzette, LU @ Rockhal

10/11/24: Stuttgart, DE @ Schleyerhalle

10/12/24: Frankfurt, DE @ Festhalle

10/14/24: Milan, IT @ Alcatraz

10/16/24: Zürich, CH @ The Hall

10/17/24: Paris, FR @ Zenith

10/18/24: Oberhausen, DE @ Rudolf Weber

Arena

10/19/24: Berlin, DE @ Velodrom

10/21/24: Krakow, PL @ Tauron Arena

10/22/24: Budapest, HU @ MVM Dome

10/23/24: Vienna, AT @ Gasometer

10/25/24: Munich, DE @ Olympiahalle

10/26/24: Prague, CZ @ Sportovni Hala

Fortuna

FOUR STROKE BARON announce new album, ‘Data Diamond’; Lead single and music video, ‘The Witch’

WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO PREMIERE FOR THE WITCH @

by Troy Wilson

FOUR STROKE BARON from Reno, NV, has unleashed thrilling news of their forthcoming fourth album, “Data Diamond,” slated for release via Prosthetic Records on May 31. Alongside this eagerly awaited announcement, the progressive metal duo treats fans to the lead single and accompanying music video, titled “The Witch,” kicking off an enthralling four-part series that will unravel the bloodthirsty anthology of “Data Diamond.”

Reflecting on the album’s creation, FOUR STROKE BARON shares, “When we come together, our entire creative process involves screaming at each other and tapping into an

uncontrollable wavelength. Before anything is recorded, it has been sung, shouted, hummed, or beatboxed into existence.”

“With ‘Data Diamond,’ we have meticulously crafted the most direct path from our minds to a tangible body of work. There is no dumbing down, no overthinking, no compromising, no restrictions, and no rules— except one. The rule is simple: if you can’t hum a part after hearing it once, it doesn’t make the cut.”

Speaking specifically about “The Witch,” the band elaborates, “In the realm of progressive music, there often exists a fear of simplicity or accessibility. If a song doesn’t boast 20 different ideas and beat switches, it’s often overlooked. We decided to take a

different route with ‘The Witch,’ crafting a straightforward, two-riff song. This approach challenged us to be creative, exploring how we could manipulate these two ideas into something intriguing without sounding repetitive.”

Continuing their narrative, the duo delves into the music video’s storyline, stating, “Robert stumbles upon a ghastly discovery in the deserts of Reno, Nevada. His business partner, William, is stunned by the artifact and its implications. ‘The Witch’ serves as an introduction to a four-part series that will unfold each month, leaving viewers with more questions than answers. Who are Robert and William? What did

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Photo credit: Chris M. Stanton

FOUR STROKE BARON cont’d

they unearth? Why does it cast such a dark shadow over humanity? And most curiously—why is it honking?”

“Data Diamond” epitomizes FOUR STROKE BARON at their most confidently unrestrained. Initially conceived as two separate EPs—one purely electronic, “Data,” and the other heavy, “Diamond”—which were intended to merge into one fulllength release, the album has evolved into a concise yet potent sonic experience hurtling towards listeners at full throttle.

Drawing inspiration from their work on the predecessor, “Classics,” Witt and Vallarino, along with the band members Brenner Moate on guitar, Liz Selfish on vocals, Dustin Eagan on drums, and Ian Hennessey on bass, immersed themselves in the creative cauldron to concoct the most concentrated form of FOUR STROKE BARON imaginable. “We adore ‘Classics,’ considering it one of the coolest albums ever,” the pair declares unequivocally. However, if there’s any critique of their past work, it’s the feeling that they didn’t push their boundaries far enough, taking a bit too long to arrive at the point.

flourishes, marking “Data Diamond” as a genuine FOUR STROKE BARON masterpiece. If “Classics” resembled a bellybusting plate of indulgence akin to a Man vs. Food challenge, “Data Diamond” emerges as an upmarket Gordon Ramsay dish served with a side of unadulterated insanity.

Teaming up with Cynic’s Paul Masvidal, the trio delves into psychedelic territories on the

Diamond.” Yet, as always, the macabre tragedies are dressed in catchy melodies, hooks that linger for days, and an overarching sense of shimmering positivity.

Synths play a pivotal role throughout the album, with dark electronics seeping into the band’s sound like never before—marking “Data Diamond” as their most experimental and intensely frenzied offering to date. Samples recorded amidst the wilds of Reno, Nevada, weave a tapestry of horror throughout the deliriously anthemic tunes crafted at FSB HQ, paving the way toward an unpredictable future where limitless possibilities await their unbound minds. It’s clear that they are reaching a boiling point, poised to tear through spacetime itself.

album’s eponymous closing track—a sprawling, expansive piece that also features Vola’s Adam Janzi on drums.

This criticism holds no weight against the whirlwind of “Data Diamond”—a sub-40minute plunge into the twisted psyches of its creators. Each track on the album is agile yet allows ample room for idiosyncratic

Thematically, “Data Diamond” ventures into their most murderous anthology to date. Embroiled in these tales are a Radio Shack CEO, an internationally acclaimed cyborg, an unwitting trafficker of human body parts, and the leader of a death cult nestled within a convenience store. FOUR STROKE BARON’s peculiar worldview takes a darker twist across the tracks on “Data

With their fourth full-length endeavor,

FOUR STROKE

BARON emerges as the self-absorbed, boldly confident, musically deranged partnership they were always destined to become—and it sounds utterly incredible.

FOUR STROKE BARON is: Kirk Witt - guitar and vocals

Matt Vallarino - drums

Data Diamond track list:

1. On Mute

2. Monday

3. The Witch

4. Cyborg Pt. 3 (Because I’m God)

5. VALLTT

6. Open The World

7. People In My Image

8. 1000 Threads

9. Data Diamond (Paul Masvidal and Adam Janzi)

BONZIE

Photo credit: Jasper Soloff

By Sheena Johnson

Independent pop artist BONZIE, a talent lauded as “brilliant” by NPR, has unveiled her latest musical offering in the form of “Live at EastWest,” a captivating 2song EP featuring fresh, live renditions of her recent single “Spiritual Violence” and the acclaimed hit “alone.” The latter was celebrated as one of the “Best Songs of 2020” by The New York Times. These newly released audio versions follow closely on the heels of performance videos filmed at the renowned Hollywood studio, amassing an impressive 200,000 views combined.

Nina Ferraro, known by her stage name BONZIE, shares insights into the inspiration behind this EP, “To kick off 2024, I shared a couple of live in-studio videos on YouTube and received requests to release the audio on streaming platforms. My bandmates—Jonathan Pinson, Wes Nelson, and Takoda Barraza—joined me for an evening at EastWest Studios in Los Angeles, where we simply played a couple of my songs. I always revel in playing with them; we fall into a groove that generates fantastic energy.”

Speaking of the unique experience of these live recordings, she adds, “These two versions of my songs ‘alone’ and ‘Spiritual Violence’ present a distinct sonic departure from their produced counterparts. It’s just the result of a few people in a room, each pouring their passion into their instruments. It offers a different perspective on the songs. We truly had a blast that night, and I believe the audio captures that infectious energy.”

The EP features “Spiritual Violence,” a haunting track exploring themes of personal trauma and evolution. Originally released in December with a feature from Chicago rapper Teo The Artist, the song delves into the concept of intangible violence, representing a profound dismantling and rebirth.

Also included is “alone,” a folky and atmospheric gem that served as the lead single from BONZIE’s acclaimed third studio album, “Reincarnation.” The track has garnered praise from music critics, including Bob Boilen from All Songs Considered, who described it as “stunning.” PopMatters also lauded the song, highlighting its fascinating production. These accolades were further echoed by The New York Times and numerous other publications.

BONZIE’s musical journey began with her debut album “Rift Into the Secret of Things” in 2013, marking her entry into the music scene as a teenager. Since then, the Chicago-born, Los Angeles-based artist has continuously pushed the boundaries of her artistry, exploring genres ranging from postrock to folk to surrealist pop with remarkable finesse.

Her most recent album, “Reincarnation,” showcased a further evolution of her sound, weaving elements of electro-pop, artrock, and gospel music into a mesmerizing tapestry of soundscapes. Co-produced by BONZIE alongside DJ Camper, known for

BONZIE: Website @ https://www.bonzie.net/ Instagram @ https://www.instagram.com/bonzie/ Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/BONZIEmusic X/Twitter @ https://twitter.com/bonzie ?TikTok @ https://www.tiktok.com/@bonziemusic YouTube @ https://www.youtube.com/user/BonzieMusic Spotify @

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5P7xOLYjahofPTxDa0MOc8 Apple Music @ https://music.apple.com/us/artist/bonzie/1181716101

his work with R&B and hip-hop luminaries such as Jay-Z and John Legend, the album delivered a transformative listening experience akin to lucid dreaming—immersive, enchanting, and marked by profound clarity.

Known for her captivating live performances, BONZIE has garnered acclaim from critics and audiences alike. Following an especially magnetic set at SXSW, Jon Pareles of The New York Times hailed her performance, noting the riveting combination of delicacy and drama that she brings to the stage.

Recently, BONZIE unveiled her dreamy single “Citrus,” accompanied by an animated visual simulator set within an immersive 3D world. FLOOD Magazine praised the track, highlighting the mesmerizing blend of BONZIE’s vocals with an ambient hum of looped piano samples, culminating in a sparkling crescendo of keys.

Fans can eagerly anticipate more new music from BONZIE on the horizon, as she continues to push the boundaries of her artistry and captivate audiences with her distinctive musical vision.

GLAM-ROCK BAND ABOMINABLEZ IS BACK WITH A NEW SINGLE “VICIO CARO”

stream vicio caro here at https://farolatino.ffm.to/vicio-caro

Connect with Abominablez Online at: instagram @ https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/ ?next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fabominablesmx%2F YouTube @ https://www.youtube.com/@AbominablezVEVO Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/abominablesmx

By Jose Martinez

Mexico’s independent music scene is abuzz with excitement as the iconic band Abominablez makes a triumphant return, ushering in their unique blend of post-punk and New Wave sounds.

Their latest offering, “Vicio Caro,” stands as the fourth single heralding their comeback, delving deep into the experience of bidding farewell to the obsessions that ensnare us. This musical journey navigates the shadowy realms of toxic relationships, all while channeling a sound reminiscent of the legendary The B-52’s. With a subtle fusion of Post-punk and New Wave, Abominablez proves that their essence still brims with vibrancy and relevance.

Accompanying the single is a visually striking music video, a clever parody of an exorcism, vividly capturing

the haunting curse that clings until the final note. This liberation anthem sets the stage for the band’s eagerly anticipated first show of 2024 in the vibrant heart of Mexico City.

“Vicio Caro” not only signifies a new chapter in Abominablez’s storied career but also showcases their skillful songwriting prowess. It delves into the depths of the human psyche, exploring the poignant struggle of bidding farewell to emotional vices before they consume us entirely. Known for their extravagant live performances, the band promises an unforgettable experience with this latest release.

With a history rooted in their days as Six Million Dollar Weirdo, Abominablez has transcended both time and genre boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the Mexican music

landscape. Their legacy, crafted over three iconic albums including Percepción extrasensorial, Recuerdos del futuro, and Pseudo Super Science, has resonated deeply with entire generations. Hits like “Berlín,” “Diamantes,” “Nada Será Igual,” “Demonio de tu amor,” and “Lazer Gun” have become anthems, embodying the essence of the band’s rebellious spirit.

The band’s evolution into Abominablez (formerly known as Abominables) speaks volumes of their ethos, symbolizing the opposite of conventional beauty and glamour. Following the loss of their original drummer Zette Voltage, the band made the poignant decision to rename themselves Abominablez in her honor.

Hailing from Mexico City, this pop-rock-glam ensemble was founded in 2008, comprising Ricardo Flores “Abulón” on vocals, Tamerlane García on bass and synthesizer, Ricci Macchiavello on bass and synthesizer, Lauren García on synthesizer, María Temez “Bo” on synthesizer, and Rack Guerrero on guitar.

After a well-deserved hiatus, Abominablez returns to the stage armed with new music and their signature style that seamlessly weaves influences from across eras. Throughout their illustrious career, the band has graced major festivals with their electrifying presence.

Renowned for their iconic singles that have since become classics, such as “Berlín,” “Diamantes,” and “Demonio de tu amor,” Abominablez is currently hard at work on their highly anticipated new album. Fans old and new can look forward to immersing themselves in the sonic tapestry that only Abominablez can weave, as they embark on this exciting new chapter in their musical journey.

By Jose Martinez

La escena musical independiente de México recibe con entusiasmo el regreso de una banda icónica que marca el tono con sus únicos sonidos de postpunk y New Wave.

“Vicio Caro” es el cuarto sencillo que marca el triunfal regreso de Abominablez al escenario. Este cautivador tema nos sumerge en la experiencia de decir adiós a las obsesiones que nos consumen, una odisea musical que explora los rincones más oscuros de las relaciones tóxicas. Con un sonido que evoca a los legendarios The B-52’s y una sutil mezcla de Post-punk y New Wave, Abominablez demuestra que su esencia sigue vibrante.

El video musical que acompaña al sencillo, una parodia de un exorcismo, visualiza la maldición que persigue hasta el final, capturando la esencia única de la banda. Este himno de liberación será el punto de partida para su primer concierto del 2024 en la Ciudad de México.

Con “Vicio Caro”, la banda presenta un emocionante capítulo en su carrera. La canción, magistralmente escrita, profundiza en la psique humana, revelando el dilema de decir adiós a los vicios emocionales antes de que nos consuman. Abominablez, conocidos por sus extravagantes actuaciones en vivo, promete una experiencia única con este lanzamiento.

Con una rica historia que se remonta a sus días como Six Million Dollar Weirdo, la banda ha trascendido las fronteras del tiempo y el género. Su legado, construido a lo largo de tres emblemáticos álbumes, como Percepción extrasensorial, Recuerdos del futuro y Pseudo Super Science, ha dejado una marca indeleble en la escena musical

LA BANDA MEXICANA DE POP-ROCK & GLAM

ESTÁ DE REGRESO CON NUEVO SENCILLO “VICIO CARO”

stream

https://farolatino.ffm.to/vicio-caro

Sigue a Abominablez en línea: instagram @ https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/ ?next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fabominablesmx%2F YouTube @ https://www.youtube.com/@AbominablezVEVO Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/abominablesmx

mexicana. Éxitos como “Berlín”, “Diamantes”, “Nada Será Igual”, “Demonio de tu amor” y “Lazer Gun” han marcado a generaciones enteras.

El nombre Abominablez (anteriormente Abominables) surge del pensamiento de ser lo opuesto a la belleza y el glamour. Tras la pérdida de su baterista original Zette Voltage, la banda decidió cambiar el nombre a Abominablez en su honor. Banda de pop, rock y glam, originaria de la Ciudad de México, fundada en 2008. Formada por Ricardo Flores “Abulón” (Vocalista), Tamerlane García (Bajo y Sintetizador), Ricci Macchiavello (Bajo y Sintetizador), Lauren García (Sintetizador), María Temez “Bo” (Sintetizador), Rack Guerrero (Guitarra). Tras un hiato, regresan al escenario con nueva música y su característico estilo que combina influencias de todas las épocas. A lo largo de su carrera, Abominablez ha participado en importantes festivales.

Una banda reconocida por sus grandes éxitos que se han convertido en clásicos como “Berlín”, “Diamantes” y “Demonio de tu amor”. Cabe mencionar que la banda está trabajando actualmente en su nuevo álbum.

Kate Nash Announces Cinematic New Album 9 Sad Symphonies Releasing June 21On Kill Rock Stars

New Single “Millions Of Heartbeats” Out

View the “Millions Of Heartbeats” Music Video (directed by Ryan Baxley in Los Angeles) @ https://youtu.be/u-xhvlSQass Stream “Millions Of Heartbeats” @ https://pocp.co/millions-of-heartbeats

Pre-save 9 Sad Symphonies @ https://pocp.co/9-sad-symphonies Follow Kate Nash: Website @ https://www.katenash.com/ Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/katenash/

Kate Nash

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Platinum-selling recording artist and actress Kate Nash has revealed the exciting news of her upcoming fifth studio album, “9 Sad Symphonies,” slated for release on June 21. This highly anticipated project marks her debut with the esteemed label Kill Rock Stars, as she offers fans a taste of what’s to come with the release of her new single, “Millions Of Heartbeats.”

Accompanied by a visually stunning music video, “Millions Of Heartbeats” sets the stage for Nash’s latest musical venture, promising a cinematic journey through themes of darkness, resilience, and the enduring strength of hope.

Delving into the inspiration behind the track, Nash shared, “‘Millions of Heartbeats’ is a song about losing your spark. It can be difficult to find hope in a world that’s constantly bombarding you with bad news, chaos, and capitalism. It’s scary when you lose that spark and can’t lift yourself out of a pit. It can feel like that light you once had might never come back.”

She continued, emphasizing the central message of the song, “The button to the song is that there’s millions of heartbeats on this planet and that’s the reason we have to try. All we have right now is earth and each other. And that’s actually a lot. So just keep trying.”

Following the success of her recent single “Change,” an orchestral anthem celebrating the courage to embrace transformation, Nash received acclaim from various press outlets such as Stereogum, FLOOD, NME, DIY, and BrooklynVegan.

Having burst onto the scene in 2007 with her explosive debut “Made Of Bricks,” Nash has continuously evolved her musical style, fearlessly exploring new territories of sound and storytelling. “9 Sad Symphonies” promises yet another shift in her sonic landscape, drawing inspiration from old Hollywood glamour and vintage musicals.

The album’s concept began to take shape when Nash reunited with Danish producer Frederick Thaae, with whom she collaborated on “Only Gold,” the 2022 musical co-created with Hamilton choreographer Andy Blankenbuehler. The result is a collection of enchanting

songs, filled with lush string arrangements, that may appear bright on the surface but ultimately reveal a deeply layered quest to find beauty in a chaotic world.

“9 Sad Symphonies” stands as Nash’s first full-length release since 2018’s “Yesterday Was Forever,” showcasing her resilience, creativity, and unwavering passion for her craft. Beyond her musical endeavors, Nash continues to push boundaries across various creative platforms, from her acclaimed role in Netflix’s mega-hit series “GLOW” to her award-winning documentary “Kate Nash: Underestimate the Girl.”

Reflecting on her journey in the industry, Nash shared, “I’ve climbed through the sewers of this industry, and so my goal is to make good music I believe in, to have longevity, and have good live shows. I don’t feel competitive with the industry anymore. I’ve been in the game for twenty years, and I’m in my own league now.”

With “9 Sad Symphonies,” Kate Nash invites audiences once again to join her on a deeply personal voyage of selfdiscovery and transformation, solidifying

her status as one of the most unique and fearless talents of this generation.

Kate Nash, the English singer/ songwriter, first burst onto the music scene with her piano-driven pop tunes and cheeky, London-accented lyrics, drawing comparisons to contemporaries like Lily Allen. Born on July 6, 1987, in Dublin, Nash relocated to North West London during her childhood, immersing herself in British pop culture. Her musical journey began with piano lessons at school, while her early passion for acting was met with disappointment after a rejection from the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.

A turning point came when a foot injury confined Nash to home during the healing process. Seeking an outlet from the monotony of recovery, she turned to songwriting. Nash decided to showcase her compositions at a local gig and later uploaded home-recorded tracks to social media, sparking a rise in her online presence.

Her musical efforts soon resulted in tangible releases, starting with a 7" vinyl single titled “Caroline’s a Victim,”

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Kate Nash

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featuring the acoustic track “Birds,” under the indie label Moshi Moshi Records. This success led to a majorlabel deal with Fiction, a branch of Polydor Records, home to prominent artists like the Cure and Snow Patrol.

In 2007, Nash’s career took a meteoric rise with the release of her breakthrough single, “Foundations,” which soared to number two on the U.K. charts, holding its position for five weeks. This success catapulted Nash to festival stages across the country, including appearances at the O2 Wireless Festival, Isle of Wight, and Glastonbury. Television appearances on shows like Later with Jools Holland, The Jack Daniels Set, Popworld, and The Friday Night Project further solidified her star status.

To capitalize on the immense popularity of “Foundations,” her debut album, “Made of Bricks,” was swiftly released in August 2007, debuting at

number one on the U.K. charts with nearly 60,000 copies sold in its first week. The album crossed the pond to the United States the following January.

Continuing her musical evolution, Nash embarked on her second album in March 2009, with former Suede guitarist Bernard Butler serving as producer. “My Best Friend Is You,” released the next year, showcased Nash’s newfound love for Motown and upbeat neo-soul melodies.

The singer took a bold turn with her third studio album, “Girl Talk,” in 2013, infusing her sound with edgy punk and indie rock influences. That same year, Nash delighted fans with the holiday-themed EP “Have Faith with Kate Nash This Christmas,” featuring festive tracks like “I Hate You This Christmas” and “Christmas Is in the Air” with the Tuts.

In 2016, Nash released the single

“Good Summer,” followed by the “Agenda” EP in 2017, featuring the hits “Call Me” and “My Little Alien,” which would later reappear on her next fulllength project. Balancing her musical career with acting, Nash joined the cast of the female wrestling series “GLOW” in 2017.

Returning in 2018 with her fourth album, “Yesterday Was Forever,” Nash drew inspiration from her teenage diaries, blending her signature pop sound with a heavier synth presence. The album marked another chapter in Nash’s ever-evolving musical journey, cementing her status as a versatile and enduring artist in the industry.

9 Sad Symphonies Tracklist

1. Millions Of Heartbeats

2. Misery

3. Wasteman

4. Abandoned

5. Horsie

6. My Bile

7. These Feelings

8. Space Odyssey 2001

9. Ray

10. Vampyre

Watch The Visual Gripping Music Video For “Brings Me Home” at

https://youtu.be/MZnPT6GN104

Dave Stewart & Mokadelic - Brings Me Home (feat. Greta Scarano) Listen to the WHO TO LOVE album on digital streaming services here at https://orcd.co/whotolovethetimeexperienceproject

The Album’s Musically Stunning Lead Single FOR MORE INFORMATION ON WHO TO LOVE, VISIT: OFFICIAL WEBSITE @ https://whotolove.com/ INSTAGRAM @ https://www.instagram.com/whotolovemovie/ CONNECT WITH DAVE STEWART, HERE: OFFICIAL WEBSITE @ https://www.instagram.com/davestewarteurythmics/ INSTAGRAM @ https://www.instagram.com/whotolovemovie/

Dave Stewart

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Iconic musician Dave Stewart, known for his illustrious career as a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, Songwriter Hall of Famer, and recipient of numerous prestigious awards including GRAMMYs, Brit Awards, and Ivor Novello Awards, has embarked on a new artistic venture with The Time Experience Project. Their debut offering, a 10-song modern rock opera titled “WHO TO LOVE,” has now been released in a limited edition vinyl format through Bay Street Records.

The release of this special turquoise vinyl edition, limited to just 1000 units, marks a significant moment for Stewart and his collaborators. It is now available for purchase both online and at select local record stores worldwide.

Following the digital release of “WHO TO LOVE” in October 2023, the project garnered widespread acclaim from music critics and outlets around the globe. Lyndsey Parker of Yahoo! Entertainment described Stewart’s creation as “Dave Stewart conjures sweet dreams with ecstatic new rock opera [WHO TO LOVE].” The praise continued with notable coverage from NME, American Songwriter, Hot Press, The Hollywood Reporter, and more.

The Time Experience Project, spearheaded by Stewart, consists of a diverse collective of writers, actors, filmmakers, composers, and performers. For “WHO TO LOVE,” Stewart collaborated with esteemed Italian actress Greta Scarano and the legendary Italian band Mokadelic. Together, they crafted an immersive experience that merges music and visuals, delving into the depths of human emotion through a captivating journey of music, memories, and nightmares.

Debut

Accompanying the album is a movie of the same name, written by and starring Dave Stewart, Greta Scarano, and Mokadelic. The film premiered at the Rome Film Festival and has since been featured at the Cinequest Film & VR Festival. It is also scheduled to appear at several upcoming film festivals, including the 21st Oxford Film Festival, Seeyousound International Music Film Festival, and Queens World Film Festival, where it has been nominated for Best Experimental Film. Directed by Giorgio Testi and produced by Dave Stewart

Entertainment and Grøenlandia, the film is expected to have a public release later this year.

“WHO TO LOVE” represents a new chapter in Stewart’s illustrious career, which includes his role as a Golden Globe Award winner and co-founder of Eurythmics. The lead single from the album, “Brings Me Home,” accompanied by a visually stunning music video, showcases Stewart’s exceptional songwriting and production skills. Another standout track, “Electrified,” featuring an official music video starring Greta Scarano, highlights the unique blend of Stewart’s artistry with Mokadelic’s distinctive sounds.

Speaking about the project, Dave Stewart shared, “This album is a unique collaboration of artists who were willing to take a leap of faith and work together on a conceptual piece of film and music because it felt right, not only as a project, but because we believed in each other’s intentions to make something special — away from the constraints of ‘the industry’ — and I love it. I also love my collaborators on the album Mokadelic and Greta Scarano, if you get a chance check out the long-form video version, I love that too.”

Mokadelic added, “WHO TO LOVE is both a soundtrack and an album simultaneously, focused on the concept of time. A one-of-a-kind creation, co-written with one of the most influential musicians on the global scene. We collaborated remotely for many months, then Dave came to Rome and we met, jamming together, from which ‘Electrified’ was born. This embodies the essence of the entire project, which flourished in a dynamic and organic flow.”

Greta Scarano expressed her gratitude, stating, “The vinyl is the physical proof of an incredible experience

taking the music world by storm!

where music, words, instruments, and performance created something unique. I will always be grateful to Dave and Mokadelic for making this possible.”

Dave Stewart elaborated on the themes of the album, explaining, “The songs on this album are centered around the elusive nature of time, how it seems to speed up or slow down depending on your mental state. Through the music and lyrics, we try to interpret this feeling and how life’s journey can become serpentine and surreal as we wander through moments of sadness, melancholy, love addiction, and pure ecstasy.” He added, “The short film revolves around a character who is struggling with anxiety and loneliness, reflected in both the music and the actions of the protagonist.”

The release of “WHO TO LOVE” in vinyl format represents a significant milestone for Dave Stewart and The Time Experience Project, offering listeners a tangible experience of their mesmerizing modern rock opera. With its limited availability and captivating blend of music and visuals, this release is sure to leave a lasting impression on fans of Stewart’s renowned artistry.

WHO TO LOVE TRACK LISTING:

Side A:

Album, Metamorphosis out May 12, 2023

“Time Is A Masterpiece”

“Electrified”

“Not The Sweetest Taboo”

“Brings Me Home”

“Diamond Eyes”

Side B:

“Who To Love”

“Time Flies”

“Talk To Me”

“Human”

“Surrender”

Legendary Rockers BLUE ÖYSTER CULT Share New Single “Don’t Come

Running To Me” and Music Video

Legendary Rockers BLUE ÖYSTER CULT?

Share New Single “Don’t Come Running To Me” and Music Video — Watch Here @ https://youtu.be/1iNcj93mBAs

New Studio Album ‘Ghost Stories’

due Out April 12th via Frontiers Music Srl

Pre-Order Here @ https://orcd.co/bocghoststories

BLUE ÖYSTER CULT

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Legendary rock veterans Blue Öyster Cult have unveiled the second single from their upcoming release, ‘Ghost Stories,’ set to hit shelves on April 12th under the Frontiers Music Srl label. The new track, titled “Don’t Come Running To Me,” arrives with an accompanying music video, offering fans a taste of what’s to come from this highly anticipated album.

Following the tremendous success of their 50th Anniversary celebration, ‘Ghost Stories’ finds the band eagerly anticipating a new chapter in their illustrious career. This album, eagerly awaited by fans, serves as a fitting finale to the recording legacy of one of rock music’s most iconic fixtures of the past half-century.

In collaboration with Frontiers Music Srl, ‘Ghost Stories’ promises to enthrall listeners with a collection of reimagined and completed songs spanning from 1978 to 2016. These musical treasures, long considered the ‘lost gems’ by devoted Blue Öyster Cult enthusiasts, were initially recorded between 1978 and 1983, with one exception — the track “If I Fell” from 2016. Notably, the album also includes the only known recorded performance of their concert staple “Kick Out the Jams,” a cover of MC5. These tracks, some from workshop sessions, some from performance rehearsals, were all captured with the hope that they would one day see the light of day.

As Blue Öyster Cult solidifies its status as a classic rock phenomenon, anticipation for ‘Ghost Stories’ has reached a crescendo. Fans are eager to delve into the band’s artistic vision, as they witness the completion of songs that have become legendary in the band’s folklore. Excitement is brewing as fans eagerly await the chance to experience some of these tracks live during the band’s upcoming 2024 shows.

With a legacy spanning more than five decades, Blue Öyster Cult remains a formidable force in the classic rock scene. The collaboration with Frontiers Music Srl, under the visionary leadership of Serafino Perugino, adds an extra layer of excitement to the album’s release. As the band bids farewell to their recording career, they do so with a grand flourish, offering fans a musical odyssey that is bound to leave an indelible mark on rock history.

The studio work for ‘Ghost Stories’ was completed by Richie Castellano, alongside the remaining original members Eric Bloom and Donald “Buck Dharma”

Roeser. Drumming duties on the album feature Albert Bouchard and Rick Downey, with additional overdubs recorded by Joe Bouchard. This reunion of the original lineup promises a musical journey through the decades, brimming with surprises and hidden gems for fans to uncover.

Playing a pivotal role in the production of the album is George Geranios, the band’s original audio engineer, and a vital figure during their golden years. The tracks, originally recorded on reel-to-reel analog tape, underwent a transformation under Geranios’ guidance, as they were transferred to digital audio. The collaboration with modern AI and musical talents led by Steve Schenck and Richie Castellano resulted in the creation of ‘Ghost Stories,’ a collection of vintage multi-track recordings that have been de-mixed, re-mixed, and produced to perfection.

Band Members & Credits:

Eric Bloom - Guitar, Keyboards, Vocals

Albert Bouchard - Drums, Vocals

Joe Bouchard - Bass, Guitar, Keyboards, Percussion, Vocals

Allen Lanier - Guitar, Keyboards

Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser - Guitar, Vocals

Rick Downey – Drums (on 3 and 11)

Richie Castellano - Additional Guitar, Keyboards, Vocals

“If I Fell” was Recorded on April 18, 2016, at

Red Studios, Hollywood, CA

Eric Bloom - Vocals

Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser - Guitar, Vocals

Richie Castellano - Guitar, Vocals

Kasim Sulton - Vocals

Jules Radino - Percussion

Original recordings Produced by George Geranios and BLUE ÖYSTER CULT except, “If I Fell” Produced by Steve Schenck and Richie Castellano

De-mixed, Re-mixed and Produced by Steve Schenck & Richie Castellano

Engineered by Richie Castellano

“Gun” and “Money Machine” overdubs recorded by Joe Bouchard

Digital Transfers by George Geranios

Mastered by Sam Stauff at Mercy College Studio, Dobbs Ferry, NY

‘Ghost Stories’ Track List:

1) Late Night Street Fight

2) Cherry

3) So Supernatural

4) We Gotta Get Out of This Place

5) Soul Jive

6) Gun

7) Shot in the Dark

8) The Only Thing

9) Kick Out the Jams

10) Money Machine

11) Don’t Come Running To Me

12) If I Fell

13) Roadhouse Blues (Bonus Track Japan)

BRAT Release Debut Album, ‘Social Grace’

Listen To Social Grace @

https://youtu.be/248rlz2dqaY

By Albert Schawartz

BRAT’s highly anticipated debut album, “Social Grace,” has finally arrived, marking an electrifying milestone for the NOLA-based death grind/ hardcore band. Released under the esteemed Prosthetic Records label, this album serves as a vibrant invitation to BRAT’s unique “barbiegrind” party, a celebration of raw energy and unapologetic authenticity. To commemorate this momentous occasion, the band will grace their hometown with a riveting performance on March 23 at The Free Store in New Orleans, LA.

Diving into the heart of “Social Grace,” BRAT delivers a relentless journey through 10 tracks of unbridled intensity. With each song, the band explores the familiar themes of futility and rage that echo throughout the realms of extreme music. Drawing inspiration from the depths of psychological horror fiction, as well as paying homage to classic works by Stephen King, tracks

like “Hesitation Wound” and “Truncheon” offer a visceral glimpse into BRAT’s world.

Recorded over the course of a year and a half at the renowned HighTower Recording studio, known for its work with bands such as Thou, A Wilhelm Scream, and Eyehategod, “Social Grace” showcases BRAT’s evolution and dedication to their craft. The band members—Brenner Moate on guitar, Liz Selfish on vocals, Dustin Eagan on drums, and Ian Hennessey on bass— have poured their hearts and souls into this album, channeling their collective energy into a potent blend of death metal, thrash, and powerviolence.

In the creation of “Social Grace,” BRAT chose to record songs in focused bursts, allowing for an intense refinement of their songcraft. The result is an album that brims with ferocity and authenticity, embodying the band’s ethos of inclusivity and rebellious spirit. The title track itself stands as a scathing

rebuke of aristocracy, a testament to BRAT’s unapologetically defiant voice in the face of societal norms.

BRAT’s self-described “barbiegrind/bimboviolence” aesthetic serves as a deliberate juxtaposition to their raw, unrelenting sound. This intentional contrast creates a space for outsiders and misfits, inviting all to join in the cathartic release of their music. “Social Grace” is not just an album—it’s a cataclysmically heavy party that welcomes everyone to experience the exhilarating chaos of BRAT’s world.

So come, immerse yourself in the sonic onslaught of “Social Grace” and witness the undeniable power of BRAT. Brenner Moate’s searing guitar riffs, Liz Selfish’s fierce vocals, Dustin Eagan’s thunderous drumming, and Ian Hennessey’s pulsating basslines combine to create a sonic landscape that is both captivating and unyielding. This album is not just a debut—it’s a statement of intent, a declaration of BRAT’s arrival onto the scene with all the force and fury of a storm on the horizon.

BRAT - Social Grace tracklist

1. Ego Death

2. Hesitation Wound

3. Slow Heat

4. Truncheon

5. Human Offense

6. Rope Drag

7. Blood Diamond

8. Snifter

9. Sugar Bastard

10. Social Grace

Photo credit: Greta Gerstner

BRUCE DICKINSON

By Greg Fontaine

Bruce

Dickinson,

the renowned Iron Maiden frontman, is celebrating an incredible milestone as his latest solo venture, “The Mandrake Project,” skyrockets to global success. The album, a testament to Dickinson’s musical prowess and creative vision, has made its mark on charts worldwide, garnering widespread acclaim and accolades from fans and critics alike.

The Mandrake Project’s triumph began with a resounding victory in Europe and Latin America, where it claimed top positions on several prominent charts. In Germany and Sweden, Dickinson proudly sat atop the album charts, solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Across the pond in the UK, the album made an impressive debut, storming into the Official Album Charts at No. 3, amidst stiff competition from other musical heavyweights.

In the United States, The Mandrake Project made history for Dickinson, securing his highest solo album charting position yet. Debuting at an impressive No. 5 on both the Top 200 Album Sales and Current Album Sales charts, the album also claimed the No. 1 spot on the Current Rock Album Sales and Current Hard Rock Album Sales charts. North of the border, in Canada, Dickinson’s masterpiece soared to No. 1 on the Top Canadian Album Sales, Top Current Album Sales, and Hard Music Album Sales charts concurrently.

Across the diverse musical landscapes of Europe, The Mandrake Project found itself in the esteemed company of the continent’s top 10 national charts. From Finland to Italy, Switzerland to Belgium, the album resonated deeply with audiences, earning its place among the best-selling albums of the week. Latin America also embraced Dickinson’s latest creation, with Brazil and Mexico’s iTunes charts seeing The Mandrake Project rise to the top 10.

Grinning proudly with his No. 1 Award in Germany, Dickinson expressed his joy and gratitude for the overwhelming reception the album has received. continued on next page

BRUCE DICKINSON Celebrates Worldwide Chart Success Of THE MANDRAKE PROJECT

Bruce Dickinson achieves his highest charting solo album in The U.S.

#5

#1

BRUCE DICKINSON

“I’m delighted that so many people love the record,” he shared. “It’s been incredible to hear directly from so many fans in the countries I’ve visited over the last week or so, and the chart positions are just icing on the cake to be honest. I can now focus on bringing The Mandrake Project & songs from my previous albums to life on the tour next month. See you on the road!”

Featuring hit singles like “Afterglow of Ragnarok” and “Rain On The Graves,” the ten-track collection has captured the hearts and minds of listeners worldwide. With glowing reviews and a wave of critical acclaim, The Mandrake Project stands as a testament to Bruce Dickinson’s enduring talent and unwavering dedication to his craft. As he gears up for an epic world tour starting in April, fans can expect nothing short of an unforgettable musical experience as Dickinson brings his vision to life on stage.

Bruce Dickinson, the prolific English singer, songwriter, and musician, has carved a legendary path in the world

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of heavy metal. Best known as the iconic frontman of Iron Maiden, Dickinson’s soaring vocals and electrifying stage presence have solidified his status as a true rock icon. From the moment he burst onto the scene in 1982 with Iron Maiden’s genre-defining album “Number of the Beast,” Dickinson’s career has been nothing short of remarkable.

Born Paul Dickinson on August 7, 1958, in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, this musical prodigy adopted the name Bruce at a young age, a moniker that would soon become synonymous with metal greatness. Growing up with a love for ’70s heavy metal bands like Deep Purple, Dickinson found his calling in music at an early age. After a brief stint attempting to master the drums, he discovered his true passion lay in singing and quickly became a fixture in the local music scene.

Dickinson’s journey to metal stardom began with his time in bands like Styx (not the American band of the same name), Speed, and Shots. Yet, it was with the band Samson that he truly

made his mark. Adopting the stage name Bruce Bruce, he fronted the group on albums like “Head On” and “Shock Tactics,” becoming a prominent figure in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement.

In 1981, fate intervened when Iron Maiden found themselves in need of a new vocalist. Dickinson’s audition proved to be a game-changer, and he was soon announced as the band’s new lead singer. The release of “The Number of the Beast” in 1982 marked a seismic shift in Iron Maiden’s trajectory, propelling them to global superstardom. With Dickinson’s powerful operatic vocals at the helm, Iron Maiden dominated the charts with iconic albums like “Piece of Mind,” “Powerslave,” and “Seventh Son of a Seventh Son.”

Amidst the band’s meteoric rise, rumors of tensions within Iron Maiden began to swirl, prompting Dickinson to explore solo ventures. In 1990, he released his debut solo album, “Tattooed Millionaire,” showcasing a different side to his musical prowess. Despite returning

BRUCE DICKINSON

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to Iron Maiden for albums like “No Prayer for the Dying” and “Fear of the Dark,” Dickinson ultimately parted ways with the band in 1993 after a farewell tour.

Embracing his solo career once again, Dickinson released a string of albums including “Balls to Picasso,” “Accident of Birth,” and “The Chemical Wedding.” While his solo efforts garnered critical acclaim, Dickinson reunited with Iron Maiden for a triumphant comeback in 1999 with the album “Brave New World.”

The years that followed saw Dickinson balancing his commitments to Iron Maiden with his solo endeavors. Albums like “Dance of Death,” “Final Frontier,” and “The Book of Souls” showcased his enduring creativity and passion for music. Alongside his work with Iron Maiden, Dickinson continued to pursue his solo career, releasing albums like “Tyranny of Souls” and the compilation “The Best of Bruce Dickinson.”

Beyond his musical endeavors, Dickinson’s diverse interests have led him down various paths. An entrepreneur, scriptwriter, and avid fencer, he is also a certified airplane pilot, piloting Iron Maiden’s private plane. In 2018, Dickinson released the acclaimed concert film “Scream for Me Sarajevo,” documenting a historic solo concert in war-torn Sarajevo.

Now, in 2024, Dickinson continues to push boundaries with his seventh solo studio album, “The Mandrake Project.” Produced by Roy Z, the album showcases Dickinson’s unwavering passion for storytelling, drawing inspiration from classic literature and ancient cultures. With digital singles like “Afterglow of Ragnarok” and “Rain on the Graves,” Dickinson invites listeners into a fantastical world of myths and legends, a theme further explored in an accompanying comic book series.

As he celebrates the success of “The Mandrake Project,” Dickinson

remains a towering figure in the world of heavy metal, a testament to his enduring talent and boundless creativity. With a

world tour on the horizon, fans can expect nothing short of an unforgettable musical journey as Bruce Dickinson continues to captivate audiences with his timeless music and larger-than-life performances.

Bruce Dickinson - The Mandrake Project Tour

15th April – The Observatory, Santa Ana, CA, USA (SOLD OUT)

18th April – Diana Theater, Guadalajara, MEXICO

20th April – Pepsi Theatre, Mexico City, MEXICO

24th April – Live Curitiba, Curitiba, BRAZIL

25th April – Pepsi On Stage, Porto Alegre, BRAZIL

27th April – Opera Hall, Brasilia, BRAZIL

28th April – Arena Hall, Belo Horizonte, BRAZIL

30th April – Qualistage, Rio De Janeiro, BRAZIL

2nd May – Quinta Linda, Ribeirao Preto, BRAZIL

4th May – Vibra, Sao Paulo, BRAZIL

16th May – The Halls, Wolverhampton, UK

18th May – Barrowland Ballroom, Glasgow, UK (SOLD OUT)

19th May – O2 Academy, Manchester, UK (SOLD OUT)

21st May – Arena, Swansea, UK

23rd May – Rock City, Nottingham, UK (SOLD OUT)

24th May – O2 Forum Kentish Town, London, UK (SOLD OUT)

26th May – L’Olympia, Paris, FRANCE (SOLD OUT)

28th May – 013, Tilburg, HOLLAND

29th May – De Oosterport, Groningen, HOLLAND

1st June – Barba Negra, Budapest, HUNGARY (SOLD OUT)

3rd June – Arenale Romane, Bucharest, ROMANIA

6th June – Mystic Festival, Gdansk, POLAND *

5-8th June – Sweden Rock Festival, Solvesborg, SWEDEN *

9th June – Rockefeller, Oslo, NORWAY (SOLD OUT)

11th June – Grona Lund, Stockholm, SWEDEN

13th June – House Of Culture, Helsinki, FINLAND (SOLD OUT)

14th June – Noblessner Foundry, Tallinn, ESTONIA

16th June – Huxleys Neue Welt, Berlin, GERMANY (SOLD OUT)

17th June – Grosse Freiheit 36, Hamburg, GERMANY (SOLD OUT)

19 – 22nd June – Copenhell, Copenhagen, DENMARK *

21st June – Graspop Metal Meeting, Dessel, BELGIUM *

22nd June – Summerside Festival, Grenchen, SWITZERLAND *

24th June – Zeltfestival Rhein-Neckar, Mannheim, GERMANY *

25th June – Circus Krone, Munich, GERMANY (SOLD OUT)

26th – 29th June – Resurrection Festival, Galicia, SPAIN *

27-30th June – Hellfest, Clisson, FRANCE *

30th June – Rockhal, Esch-Sur-Alzette, LUXEMBOURG (SOLD OUT)

3-6th July – Rockharz Open Air, Ballenstedt, GERMANY *

5th July – Ippodrome Delle Capannelle, Rock In Roma, Rome, ITALY *

6th July – Bassano Del Grappa, Metal Park, Vincenza, ITALY *

9th July – E-Werk, Koln, GERMANY

11th – 14th July – Masters Of Rock Festival, Vizovice, Czech Republic *

13th July – Hala, Zagreb, CROATIA

16th July – Kolodrum Arena, Sofia, BULGARIA

19th July – Kucukciftlik Park, Istanbul, TURKEY

21st July – Release, Athens, GREECE *

* – festival performance

PEARL JAM

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By Greg Fontaine

Pearl Jam, the iconic alternative rock band, has revealed exciting news for fans worldwide: their twelfth studio album, titled “Dark Matter,” is slated for release on April 19, 2024. Accompanying this eagerly awaited album is a monumental 35-date global tour, set to kick off this May. The album will be released under Monkeywrench Records/ Republic Records, representing a significant milestone for the band as their first release since the critically acclaimed “Gigaton” in 2020.

“Dark Matter,” produced by the multi-GRAMMY® award-winning producer Andrew Watt, captures the raw essence and collaborative energy of Pearl Jam like never before. The band, comprising Eddie Vedder (vocals), Jeff Ament (bass), Stone Gossard (rhythm guitar), Mike McCready (lead guitar), and Matt Cameron (drums), immersed themselves in the creative process at Shangri-La Studios in Malibu alongside Watt.

In an intense burst of inspiration, “Dark Matter” was crafted within a mere three weeks, with the musicians facing each other in the studio, fostering a deeply connected and organic musical exchange. The album encapsulates the essence of a lifelong bond between creative souls, with every track resonating with the passion and dedication that have defined Pearl Jam’s illustrious career.

During a special preview event held at the iconic Troubadour in West Hollywood, Eddie Vedder expressed his excitement about the album, stating, “I’m getting chills, because I have good memories. We’re still looking for ways to communicate. We’re at this time in our lives when you could do it or you could not do it, but we still care about putting something out there that is

meaningful and we hopefully think is our best work.”

Jeff Ament echoed Vedder’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of their collaboration with Andrew Watt and the infectious enthusiasm he brought to the project. Ament stated, “What Ed said about getting us in a room at this point, we felt like we were about to make a really important record. A lot of that had to do with the atmosphere Andrew set up... His excitement was contagious. He’s a force. I just want to say thanks for keeping us on track. I couldn’t be prouder of us as a band. I feel so grateful for the fans, but mostly for my brothers and these people I’ve made music with.”

To celebrate the release of “Dark Matter,” Pearl Jam is partnering with indie record stores for a special edition available on April 20, exclusively as part of Record Store Day. This edition promises a unique experience for fans and collectors alike.

The album’s artwork, a stunning display of light painting by artist

Alexandr Gnezdilov, adds another layer of intrigue to “Dark Matter.” Gnezdilov’s technique involves using a camera’s extended exposure and a light source to create mesmerizing visual compositions. The album cover, crafted with meticulous detail, showcases a kaleidoscopic effect achieved through intricate light painting.

In conjunction with the album release, Pearl Jam is embarking on a monumental world tour, marking the first time the band has announced both a new album and a tour simultaneously. The tour will span nine countries and 25 cities, including iconic venues such as Wrigley Field, Madison Square Garden, and Fenway Park. Notably, the tour includes the band’s first hometown performance in six years at Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena, the world’s first net-zero-certified arena.

Support acts for the tour include Deep Sea Diver, Glen Hansard, The Murder Capital, Richard Ashcroft, and continued on next page

PEARL JAM

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Pixies, adding to the excitement of the live experience.

Since their inception in 1990, Pearl Jam has garnered widespread acclaim and commercial success, selling over 85 million albums worldwide and earning induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017. Beyond their musical achievements, the band has been a vocal advocate for numerous social causes, leveraging their platform to effect positive change.

Through their Vitalogy Foundation, Pearl Jam has raised over $50 million for various charitable organizations, addressing issues ranging from climate change to healthcare access. Their commitment to activism and philanthropy continues to inspire fans and communities worldwide.

As Pearl Jam embarks on this new chapter with “Dark Matter” and the accompanying world tour, their legacy of musical excellence and social consciousness remains as vibrant as ever.

For more information on Pearl Jam, “Dark Matter,” and tour dates, visit www.pearljam.com.

Dark Matter World Tour Dates:

Date

CityVenue

May 04 Vancouver, BC Rogers Arena

May 06 Vancouver, BC Rogers Arena

May 10 Portland, OR Moda Ce

May 13 Sacramento, CA Golden 1 Cente

May 16 Las Vegas, NV MGM Grand Garden Arena

May 18 Las Vegas, NV MGM Grand Garden Arena

photo credit: Mind Art Visual

May 21 Angeles,LosCA Kia Forum

May 22 Angeles,LosCA Kia Forum

May 25** Valley,NapaCA BottleRock Festival

May 28 Seattle, WA Climate Pledge Arena

May 30 Seattle, WA Climate Pledge Arena

Jun 22 Dublin, IE M

Jun 25 Manchester , UK Manchester Co-Op Live

Jun 29 London, UK Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

Jul 02 Berlin, DE Waldbühne

Jul 03 Berlin, DE Waldbühne

Jul 06 Barcelona, ES Palau San

Jul 08 Barcelona, ES Palau San

Jul 11** Madrid, SE Mad C

Jul 13** Lisbon, PT NOS Alive Festival

Aug 22 Missoula, MT Washington-Grizzly Stadium

Aug 26* Indianapolis, IN Ruof f Music Center

Dark Matter Tracklist

8. Running

Aug 29 Chicago, IL Wrigley Field

Aug 31 Chicago, IL Wrigley Field

Sep 03 New York, NY Madison Square Garden

Sep 04 New York, NY Madison Square Garden

Sep 07 Philadelphia, P A Wells Fargo Center

Sep 09 Philadelphia, P A Wells Fargo Center

Sep 12 Baltimore, MD CFG Bank Arena

Sep 15 Boston, MA Fenwa

Sep 17 Boston, MA Fenway

Nov 08 Auckland, NZ Go Media Stadium Mt

Nov 13 Gold Coast, AU Heritage Bank Stadium

Nov 16 AUMelbourne, Marvel Stadium

Nov 21 Sydney , AU Giants Stadium

* Rescheduled date from 2022

** Festival dates are already on sale

The Biker, The Blues, The Poker Dealing Mama & More

I was puttin’ down from San Francisco to LA well at least that was the plan, sort of the plan anyway. Obviously California has a lot to offer in more than one way and they have a ton of poker rooms to be sure. Plus talk about some really great blues clubs California has them as well. I’m not into poker all the time but when it seems like it’s time to lay down some jack California has the parlors, many which are first class establishments.

On this day I noticed a neon sign that read No Guns or Nuclear Weapons Allowed and I thought this could be an interesting place so I parked my scooter out front, grabbed a cigar and headed for the entrance. However, before I entered a good looking mature woman asked if I was there for the cards or the show. She was definitely not some young thing hustling, not this woman, she was looking for poker players. I said cards and she said follow me. Just like in the song “She was a long cool woman in a black dress ‘Bout a 5’9" beautiful, tall. With just one look I was a bad mess because that long cool woman had it all.” There was an outside staircase that led up to a second floor entrance so I followed her up the steps. She held the door and as I entered and I realized right away that I was not in some low class kind of joint. Nope this was a top shelf well lit fine place for sure. She asked what my favorite drink was and I said single malt scotch. She pointed at the tables and said some of them are Texas Hold ‘em, choose the game you want and I’ll be right back with your drink. I looked around and it was an ocean of male and female players. I bought in at a table close by and tried my luck. After about maybe two hours I was breaking even sort of bored and ready to go. Then that long cool woman came to our table and relieved the dealer so I decided to try a few more hands, well I mean a man has to have his priorities right? She had an award winning smile and that woman could handle a deck. I won the first and then the second hand. I asked the pit boss if it was ok to tip the dealer and he nodded yes. I stood up thanked her and reminded her that she had asked me if I was there for the show. What was she talking about? She said downstairs they have live music six nights a week. I asked what kind and she said all kinds but usually on Thursday it’s rock or blues rock. Cool. I’m in. So back down the outside stairs then I was out in front of the place once again. I decided to fire up my cigar and sit on my bike. There were others out there too mostly smoking cigarettes. I asked this one couple if they knew who was on stage and they said a band named ‘Stinky Felix”. What a name, I had seen them perform in the past. The music started and while I did not recognize the song it was indeed good. Rock tempo yet with a sexy blues feel. This place was cool, the patrons and the employees were all top shelf. The sign out front that read no guns or nuclear weapons was still lit and it was an attention getter to say the least. Once inside I could see it too was a bit up town sort of plush but not over the top plush. This floor and its bar was interesting. That night it was an all male band but the audience was notably mostly women. I cozied up to the bar, placed an order and scanned the area for what’s what. Nothing too out of the ordinary but some really sharp dressed women. Poker upstairs and then down-

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The Biker, The Blues, The Poker

Dealing Mama

& More -

cont’d

stairs good music and good looking women. When the drink arrived it was certainly filled with scotch which is always a good sign. Still the place wasn’t holding my attention for some reason so I closed out and made tracks for my scooter. I called ahead to Los Gatos and reserved a room at a motel, fired up my bike and we hauled ass for our destination. Los Gatos is close to San Jose and if you are looking for a super friendly town that is cool with folks from out of town this would be the place. I checked in and waited for the engine to cool before rolling it inside the room. Everything went as planned until in the morning when I rolled it back out and into a parking spot. I sat down on a chair I had brought outside and fired up my morning smoke. A cognac flavored single leaf 50 ring Connecticut wrapper stogie. “Hey Mom what’s for breakfast?” Well kids nothing starts the day like a cloud of smoke and city water direct from a motel sink. Anyway I sat down enjoying this California low smog area of the state when a door a few rooms down opened and out came this elderly lady. Maybe 80 to 85 but cool looking wearing a Turquoise Squash Blossom and some native rings. I smiled as she walked by, she nodded good morning but not a word exchanged between us. A short time later she came back from wherever she had been, nodded again and kept on going. Then she paused at her door looked back and said hey they got some donuts and coffee up front. I nodded thank you and thought well that seems like a good idea but it was going to happen after I finished this fine cigar. So I was sitting there cooling it when this motorcycle cop pulls up. I thought no surely someone didn’t dime me out about my bike being in the room? He pulled up behind my bike and shut his off. A state cop no less. He was smiling so I thought well maybe it wasn’t anything too terrible. I could see he called in my plate then he came over and asked for my license and insurance card. I opened my wallet and gave him both and then kept quiet. It seemed like forever until he brought them back but then he said thank you. He asked what year the engine was because a new construction registration verifies the frame number but not the engine number. I told him 1975. He asked if it was a 1,200 and I said no I actually we bore the cylinders out and I’m running ten over pistons with an Andrews Cam. He asked if the pipes were muffled and I told him no and he replied saying that the county had a noise abatement law. I said I was just passing through and as soon as I had a couple of donuts and a cup of coffee from up front I would be on my way. He said he wasn’t going to cite me, thanked me again and said by the way not a good idea to take your bike into a motel room with new carpet, good day sir. I was stunned. Someone actually did dime me out and for some reason get this a state cop on a bike and not a county mounty came to check me out, go figure! His comment about the new carpet left me with the impression that it was the motel manager that probably called them. Anyway all’s well that ends well and with that thought in mind I decided to forego the donuts and coffee up front in the office. However, the idea of a donut and coffee was still on my mind. As I pulled away I noticed a sign that read Donut Wheel Bakery and I thought cool and wheeled on in.

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The Biker, The Blues, The Poker

Dealing Mama & More - cont’d

Nice people, but not very many people inside. I could smell cinnamon so I ordered a bear’s claw and a cup of black coffee. I looked at the map on my cell phone and could see that Santa Cruz was 25 miles away straight down highway 17. I knew that the gas and oil levels were fine so when I finished I just fired up my scooter and left for Santa Cruz. Now you may wonder what is so cool about Santa Cruz and one thing is the variety of sea animals that harbor on their beaches. By the way California keeps their beaches super clean up and down the coast and you meet the nicest, friendliest folks on planet earth there. On the day I arrived I met a Mexican family of immigrants, a family of five. Mom, Dad, two boys and a girl. I can only imagine what was going through their minds when this biker guy on this loud red chopper comes rumbling up. Possibly stereotypical to them. They turned out to be cool about me being there and didn’t freak out and leave, they just kept doing their thing. It was lunch time when the Dad of the family, his name was Juan, came over with something in his hand and offered me some kind of Mexican dish his wife, Marcelina, had prepared. I gratefully accepted their food, smiled and thanked him. I asked him if he spoke English and he nodded nope. I told him I didn’t speak Spanish yet we both knew that we were communicating. I pointed to a seal sitting on some seaweed and he nodded and pointed toward his kids while saying something I didn’t understand. The kids were pointing toward the animal too and yelling something to their Dad. He left and went back to them. About a football field and a half away was this small food store combination gift shop. I walked over and while there I noted their candy aisle. I bought some and went back to where my bike was parked. The family that gave me the free lunch were still there. I walked over to them. When I got there I put my hand in the bag and took out three packages of Red Vine Licorice. I expressed as best I could that I wanted to give the licorice to their kids. He and wife got the non verbal message and nodded yes. The kids however wouldn’t come near me so their Mom took the licorice from me and handed it to them. I reached back into the bag and took out three Hershey’s Almond bars and gave Mom and Dad each one and I kept one. The three of us ate our cache on the spot. This is the way America is supposed to function, at peace with life and each other. I walked back to my bike and not too long after I noticed a priest going up to that family. I thought that was odd. A priest on a beach, kind of different. A nun was with him and as she escorted the family toward their car the priest walked over to me. He told me that they wished to tell me that my return friendship was a sign of their welcome to America. The priest explained that no they were not from Mexico as I had assumed but from Central America where all they possessed was taken from them and they fled the country for America. They were seeking asylum. I stumbled right into that situation and didn’t know it. As the priest turned to leave I said Father do you know why nuns do not have sex? He said what? I said do you know why nuns do not have sex? He just furled his eye brows, turned away and started walking again. I shouted out because they can’t get into the habit. He stopped, turned, visibly laughing and waved goodbye. It was then that I noticed a couple maybe in their thirties holding each other on the beach. They were either in love or harboring a deep desire. You could tell at that very moment they were happy being together and that was cool to see. Me, well the annual Blues Music Awards are in Memphis next month, May. I think I will point my scooter in that direction. Their annual awards event is a lot like the Grammys event except it just presents blues and that’s a way, way cool experience. See you next month...