1. Resurrects
2. Brick By Brick
3. When You Fall
4. Flying
5. Movie In My Mind
6. Luminae
7. La Dolce Vita
8. Tone Poet
9. Epoch
10. Echoes of El Greco
11. Ur of the Chaldees
12. Spring (The Return)
I love stumbling onto something new and awesome. Tone Poet by Adrian Galysh is one of those finds. I have been diggin’ on this CD for a little bit now and keep enjoying it over and over. This CD is full of killer riffs and tasty hooks. I had written a review of the CD already but decided to do a rewrite after another listen in my mobile office (my truck).
It is a shame that quality music like Adrian makes has so little mainstream outlets. The world really could use music like Adrian has made on Tone Poet. There is no “fast food” music here, it is all written from the soul and for the love of music.
Songs like “Flying”, “When You Fall”, “Tone Poet”, and “Spring (The Return)” are the tracks that call out to me. The songs on Tone Poet are magical in the way they draw you into the world woven by Adrian Galysh. His music really takes you away to another place where you can leave the mundane world behind.
Melodic, yet powerful is how I would sum up the music of Tone Poet from Adrian Galysh. The fluidity of his work on the fret-board is hypnotic and magical. If you love music made for the love of music Tone Poet by Adrian Galysh is a necessity in you music collection.
With the recent departure of Nick “Evil Twin” Catanese laying heavy on my thoughts, and the abundance of posts littering the internet, I have decided to talk about Black Label Society and my views.
In 1998 when Zakk established Black Label Society he called together a family that knows no bounds. Yes I said family don’t get me wrong, there are fans of Black Label Society as well, but there is a Black Label Society Family that is like no other.
Over the years I have had the chance to get to know certain Family members and had the great fortune to call them Brothers and Sisters. This Family shares in the joys and sorrows of each other and stands strong in its support of one another.
When there is a BLS event near or far you can be sure the Family will gather and great times will ensue. The Family members that make the gathering share pictures and stories with the ones who were unable to attend thus making them feel a part of the event. Some family members even pick up swag for those that couldn’t go.
Let’s talk about GI/FD, SDMF.
Strength, Determination, Merciless, Forever: yup we are all that and then some. I have those words tattooed on my arm and I look at them every day. They are my mantra in this crazy world, they give me balance. Let’s examine these words one at a time.
STRENGTH: It comes in many ways and from many sources. One has to be strong when others need it, and one needs the strength to accept help when it is needed and given.
DETERMINATION: In today’s throw a way world it is easy to say “screw it” and give up. Giving up is not the BLS Family way period. The support given by our Brothers and Sisters keeps your heart in the game and gives you the determination to power through the rough times, Determination indeed.
MERCILESS: Woe be to those who try to tear us asunder. We are Merciless to those naysayers and those that doubt who we are. United we shall stand for all time.
FOREVER: This Family is eternal beyond forever. There are Family members who have passed on out of our world and yet they remain with us in the pictures, posts, lives, and hearts in this world. There are far too many Family members that are important to me to give individual shout outs but as you read this you’ll know who you are and my respect and love for you runs deep. I thank you from the bottom of my Black Bleedin’ heart.
GI/FD: Get It Fucking Done indeed, don’t just talk about it do it! There are so many people out there who never do anything. They plan and think “if only”, “I wish” ….on and on. Enjoy what we have and share that joy with others. You will be amazed at how full your life will become.
Thank you Father Zakk for calling us together, we will be here and will stand beside you Beyond Forever.
BLS Family: Yeah we’re Family and I like to think that the strength and power of the Family Zakk called together blows his mind, or maybe it’s what he intended all along…….
Hot on the heels of the new STRYPER release “No More Hell To Pay” I caught up with vocalist/guitarist/founder Michael Sweet and had a great conversation. Kevin Chiaramonte of PFA (Paul Freundlich Associates) set this up so many thanks to him. Michael and I had a nice, relaxing conversation about life and music. Here is the link to the interview:
I have had the great pleasure of becoming friends with Jeff and Mike over the years. I have shared in the joy of their successes in the music industry. They released one of my favorite CD’s to date, Of The Earth, and collaborated with Frank Hannon (Tesla) on “SIX-STRING SOLDIERS”.
Now they are releasing a new single “It’s All I Need” in 2014.
Mike and Jeff have some pretty heavy hitters add their touch to this project as well. They have recruited bassist Kurt Arft (Die Hard Til Death, Mind Merchant) to law down the bottom end, Kurt is an amazing player and an awesome person to boot. Studio wizard Chris Collier (Music Producer, Pro Tools Engineer, Mixer, Session Drummer) will be producing and drumming on the track. With all of these factors in the equation it adds up to one hell of a project. Stay tuned to Jeff and Mike’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/JeffandMikeMusic and the Hellion Rocks for updates.
it’s melodic, it’s beautiful, it’s Mike Araiza and Jeffery Sandoval
It has been a while since I have seen Jake E. Lee with such a smile on his face. I am glad he is returning with this exciting new project. It is definitely a release that I cannot wait for.
In case you’ve been in exile here is the official press release:
RED DRAGON CARTEL TO RELEASE THEIR SELF-TITLED DEBUT VIA FRONTIERS RECORDS
New Album by Band Comprised of Former Ozzy Osbourne/Badlands Guitar Legend Jake E. Lee, Bassist Ronnie Mancuso, Vocalist D.J. Smith and Drummer Jonas Fairley Set for Release on January 28th
(New York, NY – November 20, 2013) – The newest band ready to take aim at the creative void in the hard rock world, Red Dragon Cartel, are set to release their debut album via Frontiers Records. The self-titled debut by the band, made up of guitar legend Jake E. Lee, bassist Ronnie Mancuso, singer D.J. Smith and drummer Jonas Fairley is set for release on January 28th. Jake E. Lee is best known for his work in Badlands and as guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne on Bark at the Moon and The Ultimate Sin albums. Red Dragon Cartel also features various guest appearances from some of music’s most notable faces including legendary Cheap Trick vocalist Robin Zander, original Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Di’Anno, Kill Devil Hill/Pantera bassist Rex Brown, Slash’s Conspirators Todd Kearns and Brent Fitz and In This Moment front woman Maria Brink. The album was produced by Ronnie Mancuso and Jake E. Lee and was executive produced, mixed and mastered by Kevin Churko (In This Moment, Ozzy Osbourne, Five Finger Death Punch).
From the opening riff of “Deceived” to final sustained piano chord of “Exquisite Tenderness,” it is clear Red Dragon Cartel has created an album that stands amongst some of the greatest hard rock albums of all time. Infectious songs such as “Shout It Out,” “Wasted” and “Slave” showcase the band’s ability to write memorable hooks and vocal melodies. Robin Zander of Cheap Trick lends his voice to the track “Feeder” and a lyric video for the song can be seen at http://tinyurl.com/FeederLyricVideo. Maria Brink of In This Moment lends her unique vocals to the track “Big Mouth.” Paul Di’Anno and Sass Jordan also lend their talents to the band’s debut. Jake E. Lee’s trademark playing style instantly shines through and picks up right where he left off. The album is available for pre-order on Amazon.com at http://amzn.to/1aYjMng or digitally on iTunes at http://smarturl.it/reddragoncartel that comes with an instant download of “Deceived.” Eddie Trunk is premiering “Deceived” in the 11:00PM hour Friday night on his weekly radio show that can be heard on Q104.3 in the NYC area, streaming on Q104.3 website or with the free iheartradio app for any smartphone.
The track listing for Red Dragon Cartel is:
1. Deceived
2. Shout It Out
3. Feeder with Robin Zander
4. Fall From The Sky (Seagull)
5. Wasted with Paul Di’Anno
6. Slave
7. Big Mouth with Maria Brink
8. War Machine
9. Redeem Me with Sass Jordan
10. Exquisite Tenderness
The band will be bringing these new powerhouse songs on the road playing a handful of dates before embarking on a full tour in 2014. The band will be stopping in Los Angeles, Tempe, San Diego and Las Vegas and is a must-see for anyone in those markets. Tickets are currently on-sale and all information can be found on the band’s website.
December 12th – Los Angeles, CA – Whisky A Go Go
December 14th – Tempe, AZ – Marquee Theater (Support of Queensryche)
December 15th – San Diego, CA – Brick By Brick
December 20th – Las Vegas, NV – Count’s Vamp’d
It was summer of 1979 and I was an impressionable youth. Music was my best friend, music got me through the tough times. I used to hang out at the local record store pouring through the vinyl looking for new music and bands that would fill my ears and mind. I came across a record in the import section and the cover immediately grabbed my attention. A warrior with a bloody sword and shield, the band was called Saxon. I didn’t have enough money to buy it right out but I remember asking the guy there if I could give him a couple of bucks to hold it for me. I came up with the rest of the cash a few days later and ran home with my prize.
The music was powerful, loud, and glorious. Songs like “Big Teaser”, “Judgement Day”, “Stallions of the Highway”, and “Militia Guard” called to me. I knew then Saxon was destined for greatness and would be one of my favorite bands.
Saxon and their music carried me through the years giving us anthems to raise our fist high and shot at the top of our lungs. “Strong Arm Of The Law”, “Denim And Leather”, and many more.
Saxon never charted here in the US but there were plenty of us listening to them and we still do.
“Denim And Leather”
Where were you in ’79 when the dam began to burst?
Did you check us out down at the local show?
Were you wearing denim, wearing leather?
Did you run down to the front?
Did you queue for your ticket through the ice and snow?
Denim and leather brought us all together
It was you that set the spirit free
Denim and leather brought us all together
It was you that set the spirit free
Did you read the music paper from the back and to the front?
Did you find out where to see your favorite band?
Did you listen to the radio every Friday night?
Did you hang around your local record store? Sing it
Denim and leather brought us all together
It was you that set the spirit free
Denim and leather brought us all together
It was you that set the spirit free
C’mon
It was you, you, you, you that set the spirit free
It was you, you, you, you that put us here today
It was you, you, you, you that filled the concert halls
It was you, you, you, you that set the spirit free
Denim and leather brought us all together
It was you that set the spirit free
Denim and leather brought us all together
It was you that set the spirit free
Denim and leather brought us all together
It was you that set the spirit free
Denim and leather brought us all together
It was you that set the spirit free
It was you that set the spirit free
It was you that set the spirit free
It’s you, you, you, you
I was there in ’79 wearing Denim and Leather, and I’m still here today and still wearing Denim and Leather. Thank you Saxon, thank you for helping us to set our spirits free.
What is music? Wow, what a question. I’ll try to tell you what it is to me.
I remember being alone a lot when I was younger, I also remember a painful childhood. Yet there was always a friend around to whisk me away from reality, music. I would often find myself listening to the world around me and the music it contained. There were birds chirping, the wind in the trees or against a building, the rain, sometimes the music of people going about their lives. That was natural music and it lives within us all, it is primal.
I remember radio becoming a close friend to me as well. I would listen to the various stations open minded to all that I was hearing. Through it all Rock N’ Roll called to me and welcomed me with open arms. There was such feeling in the music, and I identified with it. I was carried away from the everyday world by Rush, Van Halen, Boston, Peter Frampton, KISS….on an on. I was safe with them and I felt good. I give thanks to the live DJs who turned me on to the music they were listening to. I remember being able to call them up late night and discuss music with them and learn of bands and songs that still hold meaning to me today.
Ahhh the rock show, I have many fond memories here. When I was old enough I started going to live concerts and experiencing live music. What a joy to hear the songs I had come to know and love in a live setting. It was magical to see the songs being played to the moment. There is nothing like a live song played with the passion and emotions of the artist in the now. It was a party going to a live show, no fighting (well not like today, there were a few at times), no animosity, such a gathering for a good time. You could find out about bands you might not have heard of yet from others and you could turn them on to bands you have discovered. It was FUN!!! No cellphones, no leaving before the show was over, you were on from the first note to the end. Then the post show hangout and discussions, oh the times we had.
The event of a new release, yes I said event. Once upon a time there were music stores and that was their main focus. Many of us would read every scrap of print we could find in order to know about upcoming releases. We would hang around in the record store talking music, and about the bands we loved. When a new record came out we would eagerly shell out our hard earned bucks, race home heart pounding, rip off the plastic, smell the fresh vinyl, drop the needle, and escape into the album artwork and liner notes.
What is music? Well, to me it is life, love and who we are. Our styles and preferences may change throughout the years but that love lives on within us. It is a different world today, the demise of the big labels, record stores closing, live radio traded for corporate canned programming. And yet, I raise my horns high and rock on as I have always done. The spirit lives on in me as I know it does in others and I am taking it back from the corporate world and I am gonna pass this message on to the world. Go to a live show, buy a t-shirt, buy a physical copy of the bands music, read the liner notes, TALK to people at a show, live the music because it lives in you.
it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s ROCK N’ ROLL (and I love it)
I cannot say enough good things about Kill Devil Hill. Paul Gargano of Century Media made sure I received the new CD Revolution Rise for review, set up an interview with vocalist Dewey Bragg, and arranged for me to shoot their show and meet with the guys. Thank you Paul and Century Media. Here is the interview link in case you missed it:
I have to give thanks to Rancid Savage Productions for making it possible for my very good friend guitarist Mike Araiza (Of The Earth, Frank Hannon Band) to attend the show with me.
ROADTRIP!!!
I want to thank my friends guitarist Mike Araiza (Of The Earth, Frank Hannon Band) and vocalist Dion Tejada (Scars Blue) for sharing this epic road trip with me. We talked music, life, and basically had a great time. It was reminiscent of the glory days of Rock concerts. The vibe were chill, the road music was great, and the conversation flowed.
We rolled up to the historic El Morro Theater in Gallup, NM and saw the infamous Dimebag tour bus. From that moment we knew we were in for a kickass night of Rock N’ Roll!
the Dime bus!
We parked the Hellionmobile and walked to the venue as cool as we could. As we passed a small cafe we saw the legendary Vinny Appice sitting there on his laptop. We got to the venue and found it locked and the guest list was not available yet so we just chilled a bit. I called my friend Rob Traynor (vocals/guitars for Black Water Rising who was on the bill) and he said he’d meet us in a few. It was then we were told to go around the back and come on in. The bands were still loading in and equipment was everywhere and we were geeked for a killer show. My brother Mike Araiza offered to use one of my cameras and shoot from a different angle than me. It was a welcome addition to my show shoot and Mike managed to squeeze in 2400 shots!! Thanks Mike, much love brother!
First up on the bill was local Gallup band Testify. Identifying with their local heritage this young band brought some seriously good music to the mix. Definitely looking forward to more from these guys.
Ahhh BlinDDryve, a band near and dear to my heart. I have seen this Albuquerque band grow and evolve into the powerhouse that they are today. They delivered a great set today and left the crowd wanting more.
Revocation is a band new to me and I have already interviewed them and caught them twice. Hard, aggressive, and LOUD!!! Revocation is a band on the move in a big way. Kicking ass and taking name is their game. Don’t miss out on them if they come your way.
I was busy with something menial the first time I heard Black Water Rising, and it grabbed my attention fully. “Brother Go On” was the track and I was hooked. I found the CD and stayed in touch with what they were up to. Eventually I was able to do a phone interview with vocalist/guitarist Rob Traynor. I stayed in touch with Rob and was excited to hear about their new release Pissed And Driven. It was with great pleasure when I heard they were on the bill for this show. I will be doing a feature piece on them and their set.
A lot of people were excited to see this band and they drew a positive crowd response. New, fresh, with solid shared vocals and hooks, this band has been making waves across the globe. A band for the new world Eyes Set To Kill is coming to your ears soon.
Vinny Appice, Rex Brown, Dewey Bragg, and Mark Zavon are collectively known as Kill Devil Hill. The crew closed the curtains as the crowd prepared themselves for complete devastation from the band. The crowd roared as the curtains finally opened and the band exploded on stage.
Kill Devil Hill
Having heard both of the KDH records I knew the sound that the band had in the studio and was stoked to see what they sounded like live, I was not disappointed. The band was stellar with their live performance. While true to the songs from the records, they infused them with the magic one can only see in a live show. Rex Brown played to the crowd drawing them in to the show and feeding off of their energy.
Rex Brown firing up the crowd
The legendary Vinny Appice brought the thunder to Gallup, NM that night. Pure magic came from behind the kit as Vinny pounded out the songs of Kill Devil Hill. We owe Vinny a debt of gratitude for giving us this incredible new music.
Vinny Appice the legend!
Mark Zavon has some serious chops. This is guitarist that I feel is seriously underrated and then some. From shred to clean riffs Mark did it all effortlessly. Although Mark is a newcomer to most people, he took the stage with swagger and confidence many veterans of the stage do not. He is rapidly becoming one of my favorite players.
Mark Zavon owning the stage
And then there’s Dewey Bragg, my favorite new vocalist. There is a magic in his voice and you can feel it reach into you when you listen to the songs of Kill Devil Hill. From brain shattering screams to haunting harmonies Dewey hits it all. The thing about Dewey is that he sees his voice as an instrument and treats it accordingly, and it shows. Besides the voice and the company he keeps Dewey remains humble and grateful. I asked him in our recent interview if he ever looks around while on stage and says damn that’s Rex Brown and damn that’s Vinny Appice, his repsonse: : “Every Night”.
Dewey Bragg filling our ears with joy
Kill Devil Hill are a classy group of gentlemen indeed. After busting their asses onstage they took the time to hang out and meet the crowd, take pictures and sign stuff for them. The Crowd lined up in anticipation and you could see the joy on their faces as Rex, Vinny, Mark, and Dewey acknowledged them even if for only a moment.
Rex Brown and Dion Tejada
Vinny Appice with a fan
Kill Devil Hill with some VIP purchasers
Rex Brown with the Hellion
As a bonus to people attending these shows Rita Haney (DimebagzHag) is running the merch table for Kill Devil Hill. She took the time to talk, sign things, and take pictures with the fans. A class act indeed.
Rita Haney with a fan
Rita Haney with Mike Araiza
And then it was all over and everyone had to go back to their regular lives, but at least, they were all carrying the magic of the nights show with them into their dreams.
Thanks to all of the bands for delivering a great night of Rock N’ Roll!!! Thanks Mike Araiza and Dion Tejada for the company!
Lightning struck when Kill Devil Hill exploded on the scene with their debut record in 2012. Lightning struck twice with the release of their sophomore album Revolution Rise. It was with great excitement when I received an email from Paul Gargano from Century Media, that contained Revolution Rise for me to review. A few weeks later Paul and I were able to arrange an interview with vocalist Dewey Bragg. Dewey and I had a casual conversation rather than an interview and we discussed a myriad of things. Here is the link for your enjoyment:
My good friend Casper Gomez has grown over the years since we first met. He has just finished his very expressive solo effort and it will be released on 11/12/13 relax and listen to Casper let us into his world:
the Hellion Rocks 