Tag Archives: Mike Portnoy

THE WINERY DOGS AND VINNIE PAUL DROP BY THIS WEEK’S EPISODE OF VH1 CLASSIC’S “THAT METAL SHOW”

by

0

 

THE WINERY DOGS AND VINNIE PAUL DROP BY THIS WEEK’S EPISODE OF VH1 CLASSIC’S “THAT METAL SHOW”

Guitar Legend Yngwie Malmsteen Returns and Shreds as Guest Musician

PHOTO - TMS Week 11#636443

(March 27th, 2014 – New York, NY) – VH1 Classic’s centerpiece in original programming “That Metal Show” returns this week with Richie Kotzen, Billy Sheehan, and Mike Portnoy of The Winery Dogs. The band drops by to update hosts Eddie Trunk, Don Jamieson, and Jim Florentine on how things have been going since the release of their debut album, released last July. The band also unveils a new deluxe edition of their debut that will be released in the near future. Unfortunately, the band leaves mid-show because they were performing that night in New York City. TMS Alum, Vinnie Paul, returns for a third time to the show and finishes the show alone. Vinnie fills the hosts in on the latest Hell Yeah record, recounts tales from the road, and once again definitively states that the rumors of the possible Pantera reunion with Zakk Wylde on guitar are completely false. Vinnie eloquently states: “They call it a ‘reunion’ for a reason, it means that all original members will be returning.  Well, with Dime no longer being here, that’s not possible.  We had fourteen amazing years together, and in my humble opinion there’s no way to do that. I don’t want to tarnish the legacy of Pantera, and my brother.  This just needs to be left alone, as it is, and it’s time for us to move on, man.” Vinnie Paul also enlightens the hosts in the “Put It On The Table” segment as he answers the lightning fast Q&A portion of the show. Episode eleven of “That Metal Show” airs this Saturday, March 29th at 11:00PM ET/PT.

PHOTO - TMS Week 11#636462 

Guitar legend Yngwie Malmsteen returns to TMS but this time as the guest musician. Yngwie wowed the hosts, guests, and crowd with his amazing fretwork and improvisational abilities. He even takes a full guitar solo in the final segment of the show that is not-to-be-missed.

Episode eleven also features a “Metal Modem” segment with Michael Poulson, of Volbeat, checking in from his home in Denmark. Michael fills in the hosts about what is going on with Volbeat’s upcoming tour, what it was like to tour with Metallica, and how great it was to be on the road with Hell Yeah and Vinnie Paul, hoping they can do it again soon. The “TMS Top 5” tackles the Top 5 Greatest Hard Rock Trios with all three hosts only agreeing on one band, Rush. This week’s “Stump The Trunk” finds Eddie regaining his dominance over the audience’s questions. When he gets one wrong it allows a lucky fan to win one of Billy Sheehan’s basses; autographed by the Winery Dogs, which of course brings out everyone’s favorite Miss Box Of Junk, Jennifer.

Since the January 18th premiere of Season 13, “That Metal Show” continues to bring their audience the biggest names in hard rock and heavy metal. The season 13 finale airs on April 5th at 11:00PM ET/PT with guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani, comedians Artie Lange and Jim Breuer, and Yngwie Malmsteen as guest guitarist, earning the distinction as being the only repeat performer in season 13.

This season marks some monumental changes for the show as it returns to New York City for Season 13. Previously the show was taped over several days, in a course of a week, at Sony Studios in Los Angeles. The new season is now shot at Metropolis Studios on Tuesday nights, for broadcast that Saturday. Season 13 also consists of 12 new episodes making it the longest season in the series history. Fans can also catch the complete season 12 and brand new exclusive bonus clips at ThatMetalShow.VH1.com and on the new VH1 app. New episodes of season 13 launch on the web and in the app every Sunday morning following the show’s on-air premiere.

“That Metal Show” premiered on VH1 Classic in November 2008 and since has become the only place for all things hard rock and heavy metal on cable television. The show has been visited by some of the biggest names in the genres including members of Black Sabbath, Aerosmith, Pantera, Anthrax, Kiss, Iron Maiden, Metallica, Pearl Jam, Queensrÿche, and Heart.

“That Metal Show” is a production of VH1 Classic. Lee Rolontz, Jeff Baumgardner, and Keshia Williams serve as executive producers for VH1.

VH1 Classic brings you the best metal, rock, soul and pop from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. The channel features the gods of rock – from Black Sabbath, Metallica, and Iron Maiden to Stone Temple Pilots, Pearl Jam, and Dire Straits – in marquee concerts and music specials, and of course, tons of classic music videos. Recent big events include “National Metal Day” (11.11) and “Metal Evolution”, an 11-part documentary series on the history of metal.  When it comes down to it – all music should go to 11.

 

Dig it! Talkin’ with guitarist Mike Orlando about the new Adrenaline Mob CD ‘Men Of Honor’

by

0

1486628_689475261075222_917411977_n

 

We are honored to once again speak with Adrenaline Mob guitarist Mike Orlando! We get the rundown on the new Men Of Honor release, and the addition of A. J. Pero to the Mob. The Mob is BACK!

 

it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s ADRENALINE MOB!

the Hellion

the Hellion Rocks top 16 (started at 10, then 16) CDs of 2013!!!

by

0

472176_10150957207320972_1918274537_o_1

Well it’s rapidly approaching the end of 2013 and time for my top releases of the year. While there were so many fantastic records from both new and established artists, there are a few that just burrowed into my brain and I couldn’t shake them. There are 16 that I am going to mention here and they are in no particular order as they are all incredible in my book. To those bands who aren’t listed here, relax I have another post planned to address you.

     KILL DEVIL HILL – REVOLUTION RISE

Kill_Devil_Hill__Revolution_Rise__album_cover

When you have a CD from a band that has members like Vinny Appice, Rex Brown, Mark Zavon, and Dewey Bragg you know your’re in for a treat. This CD kicks ass on so many levels. The music of KDH sounds familiar and distinctly unique, giving you a feeling that this band has been around for years but yet remaining fresh. Do NOT miss out on this CD, here’s a taste:

SCATTERED HAMLET – SKELETON DIXIE

Scattered Hamlet - Skeleton Dixie CD cover

Scattered Hamlet – Skeleton Dixie CD cover

My boys in Scattered Hamlet deliver on their full length release and then some. Remember when music made you feel something? Skeleton Dixie gets right in and touches your musical soul. Throughout the years these guys have become family to me and I have the great fortune of being mentioned in this CD as well. You WILL love it! Get some:

THE WINERY DOGS

the-winery-dogs

     When Billy Sheehan, Mike Portnoy, and Richie Kotzen get together you know you’re gonna get something great. There was a lot of buzz around this project and when it came to fruition it delivered in spades. Great straight up rock n’ roll, there needs to me more records like this one. Check it:

TOM KEIFER – THE WAY LIFE GOES

555112_449135921838067_1069727648_n

     Tom Keifer has always been one of my favorite vocalists. The gritty soulfulness of his voice is iconic. It has been quite a while since we have had new music from Tom and it has been worth the wait. Bluesy with a razors edge is what you find on this record. Take a listen:

STRYPER – NO MORE HELL TO PAY

1467368_10152073117583420_440701384_n

     I find it funny that I have included Stryper on this list. I’ll admit that I was not really the biggest Stryper fan back in the day, I have found a new respect for them in this record. They have a tenacity that will not quit. Strong in their beliefs, and strong in their musical passion is what landed them here. (On a side note, I recently interviewed Michael Sweet and have one coming up with Oz Fox). Here’s the title track:

BLACK WATER RISING – PISSED AND DRIVEN

1381262_10151928381446591_1272359705_n

     Black Water Rising has been honing this record for a few years, and it shows. These guys have been in my ears for a few years now and I finally got to see them live and hear some of these songs live. BWR brings powerful rock n’ roll and here is some for ya :

ADRIAN GALYSH – TONE POET

Adrian Galysh Tone Poet Cover

     Adrian Galysh is one of hidden talents that the world has yet to discover. I received this CD for review and was completely amazed by it, and I believe you will be too. listen to this CD and hear a mans passion transferred to his music.

KORN – THE PARADIGM SHIFT

994246_10151799398565761_457732412_n

     Korn has welcomed Head back into its fold and released one of their best CDs to date. I believe that their life experiences has caused this band to grow and mature and that growth is reflected in The Paradigm shift. “Never Never” has become one of my favorite tracks. Check out the video and see why:

DEATH ALLEY MOTOR CULT – THE OUTLAW CHRONICLES

1017012_10152160175737785_1992583669_n

     Death Alley Motor Cult is one of those bands that you want to hang out with but you remember what your mom said to you about the company you keep. Their music is like that too, when you listen to it you feel dirty, dangerous, and cool, very very cool. The Outlaw Chronicles needs to be played at 11 and in a conspicuous place so you can “enlighten” those in need of a visceral experience.

AVENGED SEVENFOLD – HAIL TO THE KING

20130726112438!A7XHailtotheKing

     Sometimes I catch grief for listening to A7X, but this band gives me hope for newer music. upon the heels of suffering the loss of their founding drummer “The Rev” they have come back with strong music that has shaken up the pop laden music charts. Hail To The King pays homage to the bands that inspired these guys. Hail To The King:

CLUTCH – EARTH ROCKER

Clutch-Earth-Rocker

     Clutch is one of those bands that will always remain just under the radar. Earth Rocker is a great album that unfortunately many people will not get to hear. Clutch is a band that gets ignored by the mainstream and yet I think they are happy with that. Great band, great show, great record. Do yourself a favor and listen to Earth Rocker and then dig into the music of Clutch. Here’s “Crucial Velocity”:

ADRENALINE MOB – COVERTA

Coverta-Cover

     Adrenaline Mob put out this CD of covers that is just incredibly awesome. They cover Van Halen’s “Romeo Delight” with the power and aggression that I think it deserved from the beginning. I usually do not put cover albums on my list, but this one has a place. Check this out:

MONSTER MAGNET – LAST PATROL

MonsterMagnetLastPatrol

     Last Patrol takes you on a psychedelic journey into the mind of Dave Wyndorf. Monster Magnet is back on their game with their latest release. Just caught these guys on tour in support of Last Patrol and the songs kick ass live!

MINDCAGE – OUR OWN DEVICES

1238024_10151858750679507_1654952403_n

     Mindcage came out of left field and socked me in the head with this one. Our Own Devices creates a magical world with their powerful music. I have said that is transports you away from the mundane and I stand by that statement. Here you go:

BLACK LABEL SOCIETY – UNBLACKENED

10-02-Discs-Black-Label-Society-Unblackened

     Those of you who know me knew this one would end up on here. Zakk and co. have always and will always be one of my favorites. Unblackened gives new life to some of the most iconic BLS tracks. While the members may change, Black Label Society will remain STRONGER THAN DEATH.

TRACII GUNS’ LEAGUE OF GENTLEMEN – THE FIRST RECORD

91LcWgdUx1L._SL1400_

     Of all of the great and wonderful 2013 releases on my list, this is most magical for me. Having considered Tracii Guns one of my favorite guitarists for years and years I was supremely stoked when I caught wind of this project. When I finally had it in my  hands it was all that I expected and then some. Trippy , ethereal and full of passion, and soul the music found on here is the kind we grew up listening to. Thank you Tracii!

     its loud, it’s dirty, it’s ROCK N’ ROLL!!!

     the Hellion

Regarding AVENGED SEVENFOLD and Hail To The King

by

0

Ststoriginal In 2001 a band caught my ears, that band was Avenged Sevenfold. “Warmness On The Soul” from their debut release Sounding the Seventh Trumpet was the song that did it. I dug the sound and the imagery the band was trying to present. I thought to myself if this  band managed to keep it together, and not breakup, they had the potential to become a great band.

WakingTheFallen

City_of_Evil_album_cover

Avenged_Sevenfold_cover_2007

    They released three more albums Waking The Fallen, City Of Evil, and the self titled Avenged Sevenfold. Each album brought enjoyable music and showcased their growth and talent as songwriters and musicians. And then in 2009 disaster happened, founding member and drummer James”The Rev”  Owen Sullivan passed away. Was this end of a band that I was sure would rise to the top?

James "The Rev" Owen Sullivan (February 9, 1981 – December 28, 2009)

James “The Rev” Owen Sullivan (February 9, 1981 – December 28, 2009)

I cannot imagine their thoughts at the loss of their comrade in arms and yet, they muddled through it and released Nightmare in 2010. Pulling in Mike Portnoy (one of The Rev’s idols) to complete the drum work The Rev had started and including the vocal tracks he had laid down. Nightmare was met with critical acclaim and launched A7X into mega stardom.

Avenged_Sevenfold_-_Nightmare

     Due to the fact that The Rev played a part in the songwriting process of A7X people began speculating as to the survival of the band post Nightmare. Mike Portnoy toured with the band briefly before leaving the band.  Arin Ilejay was then tapped to become their permanent drummer.

A7XHailtotheKing

     2013- Hail To The King was released on August 27th and I was scheduled to shoot their performance on August 30th. What can I say about this album? My prediction from 12 years ago has come true. A7X has managed to knock everyone off the charts and put ROCK N’ ROLL back on top as it should be. Congratulations guys, your perseverance has paid off.

     Now, to address the naysayers to the album. There has been postings and rumblings on how A7X has “ripped off” Metallica, Megadeth, Guns N’Roses, and Iron Maiden. Well if you give it some thought you will realize that those bands were some of the bands who inspired the members of A7X. Go through your records and listen to them again and you will hear similarities to other bands in almost all of them in some way or another. How long has it been since a hard rock act has been on top of the charts? A7X has gone to ground and pulled from those influences and made a damn good hard rock record.  Thank you gentle men, thank you very much. And to the naysayers: how many records have you sold recently, and what is your tour attendance like?

    Now, on a lighter note, here’s some of the pics I shot from their stellar performance on Day 1 of The Revolt On The Rio Grande powered by Rock Star Energy Drink.

565013_616627241711318_611918230_n

M. Shadows

M. Shadows

M. Shadows

M. Shadows

Zacky Vengeance and Synyster Gates

Zacky Vengeance and Synyster Gates

M. Shadows

M. Shadows

1170793_619240008116708_114737980_n - Copy 1175394_619246421449400_1892924872_n - Copy 1184798_619241348116574_796080771_n - Copy 1235149_619240741449968_185010638_n - Copy 1236800_619249118115797_913372494_n - Copy

Johnny Christ

Johnny Christ

Zacky Vengeance

Zacky Vengeance

Arin Ilejay

Arin Ilejay

A7X stage setup

A7X stage setup

Hail To The Kings indeed

the Hellion

ADRENALINE MOB Releases Two More ‘Romeo Delight’ Commentary Videos with GuitarWorld.com‏

by

0

ADRENALINE MOB Releases Two More ‘Romeo Delight’ Commentary Videos with GuitarWorld.com

Upcoming Headline Tour Kicks Off with Release of New Covers EP ‘Coverta’ on March 12, 2013

Coverta-Cover-300x300

ADRENALINE MOB, featuring Russell Allen (Symphony X), Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater), John Moyer (Disturbed) and Mike Orlando (Sonic Stomp), and GuitarWorld.com have posted two more exclusive videos of ADRENALINE MOB discussing the recording of the band’s cover of ‘Romeo Delight’ (originally by Van Halen) for their new covers album Coverta, hitting stores tomorrow. Today’s videos feature commentary from vocalist Russell Allen and bassist John Moyer. You can watch the videos now at this link.

Coverta is an eight-track EP featuring cover versions of some of the band’s favorite songs. Long-time fans of Mike Portnoy are aware of the multiple cover albums he has released with Dream Theater and with Neal Morse.

COVERTA TRACK LISTING:

01. “High Wire,” Badlands

02. “Stand Up and Shout,” Dio

03. “Break on Through,” The Doors

04. “Romeo Delight,” Van Halen

05. “Barracuda,” Heart

06. “Kill the King,” Rainbow

07. “The Lemon Song,” Led Zeppelin

08. “The Mob Rules,” Black Sabbath

Beginning Tuesday, March 12th at 10am at the Best Buy store in Orlando, FL (Alafaya Trail), fans can pick up a copy of Coverta and get it signed by the band after their live performance in the Best Buy store on March 20th. Only 250 wristbands will be given out. Wristbands cannot be replaced. Time is subject to change. Due to anticipated attendance, autographs are on a first come, first served basis. The price ofCoverta at Best Buy is $7.99.

The band’s upcoming tour will consist of two legs this spring and tickets are on sale now. The dates for the first leg are:

3/12 – New Haven, CT @ Toads Place

3/13 –New York, NY @ Marlin @ Webster Hall

3/14 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Altar Bar

3/15 – Pottsville, PA @ Goodfellas

3/16 – West Springfield, VA @ Empire

3/18 – Jacksonville, FL @ Brewster’s Roc Bar

3/19 – Tampa, FL @ Orpheum

3/20 – Orlando, FL @ The Haven

3/22 – Houston, TX @ Scout Bar

3/23 – San Antonio, TX @ Backstage Live

3/24 – Dallas, TX @ Trees

3/25 – Abilene, TX @ Lucky Mule

3/27 – Phoenix, AZ @ Joe’s Grotto

3/28 – San Diego, CA @ Brick by Brick

3/29 – Las Vegas, NV @ Cheyenne Saloon

3/30 – Los Angeles, CA @ Roxy

4/1 – Colorado Springs, CO @ Black Sheep

4/2 – Kansas City, KS @ The VooDoo Lounge

4/4 – St. Louis, MO @ Fubar

4/5 – Nashville, TN @ Exit IN

4/6 – Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade

4/7 – Richmond, VA @ Kingdom

Nothing More will be the support act on the first leg.

For more information on ADRENALINE MOB, please visit www.adrenalinemob.com.

Mike Orlando guitarist for Adrenaline Mob/Tred/Sonic Stomp, on the Hellion Rocks

by

0

IMG_2726

Well I love what I do. Sometimes the stars align and great things happen. I was recently given the opportunity to do an interview with one of my favorite guitarists, Mike Orlando. First let’s get to know Mike a bit. Mike came onto my radar with the release of Sonic Stomp.

71w7eqSSeXL._SL1489_

The sonic Stomp release is an instrumental work of art. Ranging from blazing shred to beautifully composed ballads this CD will take you on a trill filled musical journey. Featuring Ron Thal (Bumblefoot) and A.J. Pero from Twisted Sister as special guest performers. When you listen to this CD you will see why Mike should be ranked among the likes of Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, John Petrucci,Jason Becker and Yngwie Malmsteen.

816+fCjGZ3L._SL1500_

Sonic Stomp II kicked my ass from the first note. It is equally amazing as the first, although a bit more intense. This time guests include Mike Romeo & Mike Pinella (Symphony X), Gary Hoey,Shane Gibson (Korn), Joe Stump & also featuring John Macaluso (Yngwie Malmsteen,TNT,James Labrie-Dream Theater,Ark,George Lynch). The magic keeps coming from Mike Orlando and his guitars.

Adrenaline-Mob-BW-Logo1-300x177

I had heard hints and rumors of this project and was super excited for it to come to light. Omertà was released in March of 2012 to great acclaim.

AM-Bone-Daddy-final-cover1-294x300

 

Featuring, Mike Orlando -guitars and bass, Mike Portnoy- drums, Russell Allen – vocals, Adrenaline Mob is a powerhouse of a band. The album is a testament to solid rock n’ roll. While one can hear the influences of others on the record, it has a unique sound that is distinctly their own. A great album to throw in your player and drive down the road to.

Coverta-Cover-300x300

Being released in March of 2013 Covertà, is a collection of covers that hold a special place in the hearts of Adrenaline Mob. The songs were recorded true to style, but with the power, rawness, and aggression that is Adrenaline Mob. We were treated to a teaser of “Romeo Delight” (Van Halen). See it here:

In my opinion, and no disrespect to the legendary Van Halen, “Romeo Delight” was always a more dangerous and aggressive song than the way it was recorded. I feel that Adrenaline Mob has captured that and more in their recording. We will have to wait and see what the rest of the EP holds in store for us.

HERE IS THE LINK TO OUR PHONE INTERVIEW, ENJOY:  

 

IMG_14852[1]

In conclusion, Mike Orlando is a force in music that should not be missed. You can find more about him, Sonic Stomp, and Adrenaline Mob at:

www.mikeorlandomusic.com

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mike-Orlando-Sonic-Stomp/138283299550354?fref=ts

http://adrenalinemob.com/

https://www.facebook.com/adrenalinemob?fref=ts

the Hellion

 

 

Dream band lineups

by

9

 

One of the questions I see the most is “What would your dream band lineup alive or dead be?” I have pondered this question many times and I come up with different answers each time. So I decided to  write about it and come up with three bands. One with band members who are no longer with us, one with all living band members, and comprised with both. I will try to give reasons why and even try to give my fantasy bands an appropriate name.

From the other side,

SOPHISTICATED HOOLIGANS:

Bon Scott, AC/DC (deceased 19 February 1980) – vocals

Dimebag Darrell, Pantera/Damageplan/Rebel Meets Rebel  (deceased December 8, 2004) – guitars

Randy Castillo, Lita Ford/Ozzy/Motley Crue  (deceased  March 26, 2002) – drums

John Entwistle, The Who (deceased  27 June 2002) – bass

I can only imagine what a jam session with these guys would sound like. I hope that they are hanging out on the other side. I think the combination of these “gentlemen” would make for a unique sound. I chose the name “Sophisticated Hooligans” for them because the oxymoron just suits the attitude I imagine they would have.

Still with us,

COSMIC DESTRUCTION:

Sebastian Bach, Skid Row/Solo – vocals

Zakk Wylde, Ozzy/Pride & Glory/Black Label Society – guitars

Justin Manning, Crowned By Fire – guitars

Geezer Butler, Black Sabbath – bass

Mike Portnoy, Dream Theater/Adrenaline Mob/Flying colors – drums

I shudder to think of the destructive power this band would have, hence the name “Cosmic Destruction”. There would have to be a warning label on the CDs and at the live performances. All of these players have that explosive power that would give this band the ability to crush your chest and have you thank them for it.

 

Some still with us and some not

RETROGRADE:

Paul Rodgers, Free/Bad Company – vocals

Randy Rhoads, Quiet Riot/Ozzy (deceased  March 19, 1982) – guitars

Flea, Red Hot Chili Peppers – bass

John Bonham. Led Zeppelin (deceased  25 September 1980) – drums

The mixture of Paul Rodgers beautiful voice combined with Randy Rhoads melodic playing style would compliment each other so well. Combine that with Flea holding down the bottom end and John Bonham keeping the beat and WOW! I know this lineup seems kind of weird but I think it could work. As for calling the band “Retrograde”, I think it just sounds cool.

 

There you have it those are just my thoughts, please share yours!!!

the Hellion