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Category Archives: Blues
The producer: the unsung (for the most part) hero of the music industry
You ever listen to some music and think to yourself “Wow, that sounds great!” I’m not talking about the band or the song, I’m talking about the SOUND of it. The drums are huge, the bass is punchy, the guitar tones come through, the vocals have presence, and the entire package is clean and brilliant.
So how did it get that way? Proper production that’s how. A lot of things are necessary to making a recording with great quality: the band and their songs , recording equipment and place to record, and a producer.
The pre-production process is a necessity for any recording project. This is an opportunity for the band and the producer to put their heads together and come up with a battle plan to record the band and their songs in the best way. Often times during this process the songs are reworked with the assistance of the producer in order to maximize the tracks for recording. I have spoken to producers who have told me that sometimes a band has reworked all of their songs intended for an album based upon the producers’s input.
Over the years some producers have become stars in their own right often sought out by artists for the particular “sound” that is associated with them . Does this change the band? I don’t think so, in fact, I think that a working relationship between a band and a producer over time can become a magical thing. Think of the relationship between Rick Rubin and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, magic, sheer magic.
Sometimes the artist puts on the producer’s hat as well. This can work for some and be too daunting for others. I feel that this can be exhausting both physically and mentally and takes a superhuman effort to pull off.
Then there is the producer who is also a musician who does double duty, producing AND playing on project he is working on. While this sounds like it would be cool for the producer it makes me wonder if something is lost on either side because of the hard work it takes to play and produce. I know some who have pulled it off successfully, more power to them. Chris Collier and his double duty work on the Jeff Sandoval and Mike Araiza Project song “It’s All I Need” comes quickly to mind.
Here’s a piece of advice to up and coming bands: Do yourself a favor and make sure you pay attention to the production of your recordings, it will pay off in the end.
I wish to thank the following producers for the body of work they have given to the world of music: George Clinton, Roy Thomas Baker, Jerry Wexler, Jimmy Miller, Trevor Horn, Steve Lillywhite, Jeff Lynne, Jimmy Iovine, Sam Phillips, Berry Gordy, Mutt Lange, Teo Macero, Jim Steinman, Chris Thomas, Daniel Lanois, Todd Rundgren, T Bone Burnett, Arif Mardin, Brian Wilson, Brian Eno, Rick Rubin, Phil Spector, Nile Rodgers, Quincy Jones, Sir George Martin, Chris Collier, Sterling Winfield, Steve Thompson. While in no means complete, these producers quickly come to mind for me.
In conclusion, take out that favorite recording and listen to it, I mean REALLY listen to it. The mix of bass, drums, guitars, and overall presence combined with the talent of the band. Then look at the production credits, seek out the producer and thank them.
it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s ROCK N’ ROLL!!!
-the Hellion
KXM releases video for “Rescue Me”
Ray Luzier (KORN), dUG Pinnick (KING’S X), and George Lynch (LYNCH MOB) collectively known as KXM have released the video for “Rescue Me” off of their forthcoming Rat Pak Records release! Enjoy:
https://www.facebook.com/KXMofficial
http://www.ratpakrecordsamerica.com/kxm
it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s KXM!
the Hellion
WINGER RELEASE VIDEO FOR DEBUT SINGLE “RAT RACE”
WINGER RELEASE VIDEO FOR DEBUT SINGLE “RAT RACE”
Latest Album Better Days Comin’ Available in
North America on April 22nd Via Frontiers Records
iTunes Pre-Order Available at http://smarturl.it/WingerDeluxe
(New York, NY – March 5th, 2014) –Winger returns this week with the first video from their upcoming Frontiers Records release Better Days Comin’. “Rat Race” is the debut single from the album being released in North America on April 22nd. The video for the song can be seen right here:
The video was also featured on the home page of Ultimate Classic Rock. The high-energy song and video alternates between black and white performance footage and color montages of life’s daily rat race. “Rat Race” was filmed in Nashville, TN and directed by Jason Green.
“In this day and age, how quick you think, hard you try,no matter how fast you run, someone is always gaining on you” states front man Kip Winger. “We wanted to make sure the video visually represented that.”
Better Days Comin’ is available for digital download via iTunes at http://smarturl.it/WingerDeluxe. Fans that pre-order the album will receive an instant download of the first single “Rat Race.” The album is also available for physical pre-order on Amazon.com in a standard (http://smarturl.it/WNGR_AmzCD) and deluxe configuration (http://smarturl.it/WNGR_AmzDLX). The deluxe edition comes in a glossy digipak and includes the bonus track “Another Beautiful Day” and a DVD including a Making of the Album documentary as well as the videos for “Rat Race” and title track “Better Days Comin’.” Fans can also order exclusive bundles, autographed items and more from the band’s webstore at http://bit.ly/1hJLPYw.
From the opening riff of album opener “Midnight Driver of a Love Machine” to the final outro lick of “Out Of This World,” it is clear Winger is back and better than ever. Hard rocking songs like “Queen Babylon,” progressive rock movements like “Tin Soldier,” and touching ballads like “Ever Wonder” show the band’s diversity while always centering on great songs. The band has always been known for their incredible musicianship and the trend continues on Better Days Comin’.
Winger formed in the late 1980’s and soared to immediate success with their 1988 self-titled release. The album spawned the hit singles “Seventeen” and “Headed For A Heartbreak” and achieved platinum sales status. Winger also stayed on the Billboard Top 200 chart for over 60 weeks where it peaked at #21. Their next album, In The Heart Of The Young, also achieved platinum status behind the singles “Can’t Get Enuff” and “Miles Away.” The change in musical climate of the mid-90’s, compounded with unprovoked ridicule on MTV’s popular Beavis and Butthead, led the band to go on hiatus in 1994. In 2001, the band reunited and have not looked back since. Winger has made a name for themselves with relentless touring, while winning back fans and critics alike because of their exceptional musicianship, Kip Winger’s powerful vocals and the band’s incredible songwriting.
Winger is comprised of Kip Winger on vocals/bass, Reb Beach on guitar, John Roth on guitar and Rod Morgenstein on drums.
STRYPER FRONTMAN MICHAEL SWEET RELEASES DEBUT SINGLE “I’M NOT YOUR SUICIDE” AVAILABLE VIA ITUNES WITH PORTIONS OF THE PROCEEDS GOING TO SUPPORT CHILDHELP
Video Premieres Today at
Loudwire http://loudwire.com/michael-sweet-im-not-your-suicide-exclusive-video-premiere
Noisecreephttp://noisecreep.com/michael-sweet-im-not-your-suicide-exclusive-video-premiere
and NewReleaseTuesdayhttp://nrt.cc/MichaelSweetPremiere
Solo Album Slated for Release on May 6th Via Big 3 Records Available for
Pre-Order Via MichaelSweet.com
(NEW YORK, NY) – Michael Sweet, singer/songwriter/guitarist for the multi-platinum rock band Stryper, is releasing the debut single, “I’m Not Your Suicide,” from his upcoming solo album of the same name being released on May 6th via Big 3 Records. Michael Sweet has partnered up with ChildHelp for the release of the single. Michael Sweet and Big3 Records are donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of ‘I’m Not Your Suicide’ to ChildHelp. The single is available via iTunes and can be purchased here: http://tinyurl.com/NotYourSuicideiTunes. The video for “I’m Not Your Suicide” will be premiering today as well with an exclusive premiere at Loudwire, Noisecreep and NewReleaseTuesday.
Michael Sweet felt compelled to partner with ChildHelp after learning that almost half of all children who have been abused consider suicide. His intention was for the heartfelt lyrics to connect with these kids and hopefully offer some peace to those in need. Bringing added attention to the ChildHelp National Child Abuse Hotline, which offers an immediate 24/7 professional crisis counselor on call, and championing the ChildHelp Speak Up Be Safe in schools, Michael Sweet is sharing a message of crisis intervention and prevention education. “I’m Not Your Suicide” is a song with a message of hope and through the partnership with ChildHelp, illustrate to children a positive alternative through the lyrics of the song.
The full album I’m Not Your Suicide is available for pre-sale at MichaelSweet.com. Fans who pre-order the full-album will be able to instantly download the song “Taking On The World Tonight (featuring Tony Harnell) and be registered to win a guitar used in the recording of the album. Fans will also receive a sneak-peek into the upcoming autobiography Honestly: My Life and Stryper Revealed. Buyers will be able to download chapter 18, a chapter where Michael reveals his personal thoughts on Christian music and the industry that surrounds it. The autobiography was originally slated for release on May 6th, but due to production delays will be available at a later date.All details are at MichaelSweet.com
With the upcoming and long-overdue solo album, Sweet is finally delivering the project fans have been patiently waiting for. Self-produced, I’m Not Your Suicide includes special appearances by Tony Harnell (TNT), Kevin Max (dcTalk, Audio Adrenaline), Chris Jericho (Fozzy), Doug Aldrich (Whitesnake), Electra Mustaine (daughter of Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine) and Stryper bandmates Robert Sweet and Timothy Gaines. Legendary drummer Kenny Aronoff played on the record as well.
Sweet is best known as the singer, guitarist, songwriter and producer for Christian rock pioneers Stryper, selling over 10 million albums worldwide. In addition to Stryper, Sweet has had a successful solo career, and he served as the guitarist and co-vocalist for the legendary classic rock band BOSTON from 2007-2011. The future remains bright for a man who has endured heartbreaking tribulations throughout his life and career, including the 2009 passing of his wife of more than 22 years, Kyle. In 2010, Sweet remarried to Lisa Champagne-Sweet, a woman he describes as “a Godsend and the one who fits perfectly by my side.” Sweet continues to record and tour with Stryper, as well as touring and recording as a solo artist.
For more information on Michael Sweet visit www.MichaelSweet.com
the Hellion Rocks presents: Back From Ashes
Back From Ashes is no joke, they come to rock and they mean business. I caught up with them on their recent stop in Albuquerque, NM and was fortunate to hang out and get to know them a bit. Hailing from Arizona, these guys bring the kind of powerhouse rock that we all know and love and yet remain the down to earth kind of guys that you would love to be around. Billy Zane Muna – Vocals, Mikey Butikofer – Guitar, Anthony DeJesus- Guitar, David DiGilio – Bass, and Bobby Blades – Drums make up the force that is Back From Ashes. You too can check them out on Facebook at Back From Ashes. I had a great time interviewing these guys as well so here you go:
it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s BACK FROM ASHES!!!
WINGER TO RELEASE HIGHLY- ANTICIPATED SIXTH STUDIO ALBUM BETTER DAYS COMIN’ ON APRIL 22nd
WINGER TO RELEASE HIGHLY- ANTICIPATED SIXTH STUDIO ALBUM BETTER DAYS COMIN’ ON APRIL 22nd
(New York, NY – February 26th, 2014) – One of the most misunderstood hard rock bands to come out of the 80’s is returning with their first new album in 5 years. Winger is releasing Better Days Comin’ in North America on April 22nd via Frontiers Records. The notorious band comprised of members Kip Winger on vocals/bass, Reb Beach on guitar, John Roth on guitar and Rod Morgenstein on drums, are back with their latest album. The album is available for pre-order on Amazon.com in a standard (http://smarturl.it/WNGR_AmzCD) and deluxe configuration (http://smarturl.it/WNGR_AmzDLX). The deluxe edition comes in a glossy digipak and includes the bonus track “Another Beautiful Day” and a DVD including a Making of the Album documentary as well as videos for the first single “Rat Race” and title track “Better Days Comin’.” An iTunes pre-order will be available soon. The band has always been known for their incredible musicianship and the trend continues on Better Days Comin’.
“On Better Days Comin’ we drew from our past to elaborate on our future. The band is stronger than ever and very excited about the music on this record,” explains front man Kip Winger. “We feel this album exemplifies the true sound of the band in every way.”
From the opening riff of album opener “Midnight Driver of a Love Machine” to the final outro lick of “Out Of This World,” it is clear Winger is back and better than ever. Hard rocking songs like “Queen Babylon,” progressive rock movements like “Tin Soldier,” and touching ballads like “Ever Wonder” show the band’s diversity while always centering on great songs. The debut single from Better Days Comin’ is the adrenaline fueled rocker “Rat Race” that showcases some of the band’s best work of their 25 year career.
The track listing for Better Days Comin’ is:
1) Midnight Driver of a Love Machine
2) Queen Babylon
3) Rat Race
4) Better Days Comin’
5) Tin Soldier
6) Ever Wonder
7) So Long China
8) Storm In Me
9) Be Who You Are, Now
10) Another Beautiful Day (Deluxe Edition Bonus Track)
11) Out Of This World
Winger formed in the late 1980’s and soared to immediate success with their 1988 self-titled release. The album spawned the hit singles “Seventeen” and “Headed For A Heartbreak” and achieved platinum sales status. Winger also stayed on the Billboard Top 200 chart for over 60 weeks where it peaked at #21. Their next album, In The Heart Of The Young, also achieved platinum status behind the singles “Can’t Get Enuff” and “Miles Away.” The change in musical climate of the mid-90’s, compounded with unprovoked ridicule on MTV’s popular Beavis and Butthead, led the band to go on hiatus in 1994. In 2001, the band reunited and have not looked back since. Winger has made a name for themselves with relentless touring, while winning back fans and critics alike because of their exceptional musicianship, Kip Winger’s powerful vocals and the band’s incredible songwriting.
Craw (Cajun) Nequent releases video for “Stumblebum”
Ever the renaissance man, Craw has brought forth another very cool solo song/video for the original composition “Stumblebum”. The eclectic track is accompanied by an eye catching video which was a collaboration with his wife, Kat Ford NeQuent. For more information about the art of Kat Ford, visit http://www.corpirate.com.
“Stumblebum” is a track that will have you tapping your foot and clapping your hands along with Craw. I thoroughly enjoy this creative side of my good brother Craw, you too can enjoy the video right here:
it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s CRAW!
the Hellion
the Hellion Rocks presents: guitarist MONTE PITTMAN!!!
I know I have said it before the music industry is a small small world. I received a text the other day from Crowned By Fire guitarist Justin Manning about Monte Pittman getting in touch with me about some things. At the same time Monte messaged me about said things. We got in touch and managed to set up this interview. In the course of our conversations we also found out we have a lot of friends and contacts in common. Enjoy getting to know Monte Pittman right here:
Be sure and check Monte Pittman out online:
https://www.facebook.com/monteleepittman?fref=ts
it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s MONTE PITTMAN!
the Hellion
the Hellion rocks presents: Neal Middleton of Royal Bliss
Well alright! Been trying to nail down an interview with Royal Bliss for a while now. Finally everything came into place (thanks New Ocean Media) and it so happens they have a new record coming out. Have a listen and have fun:
it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s ROYAL BLISS!!!
the Hellion
the Hellion Rocks 