December 17th, 2013 – The new EP from Birmingham, AL rock band Lynam entitled“Halfway To Hell” is out today via New Ocean Media. The album was produced by the band and longtime producer Jason Elgin (Collective Soul, Maylene And The Sons Of Disaster, Terrible Things). The EP features six songs. A lyric video for the title track can be viewed at this link:
Lynam consists of Jacob Bunton (lead vocals, guitar), David Lynam (drums), Mark Dzier (bass), and Lonny Paul (guitar).
Halfway To Helltrack listing:
01. Rise Up
02. Halfway To Hell
03. Dead Man’s Parade
04. Cold
05. Store Bought Halo
06. Wrong Side Of The Grave
In 2006, LYNAM signed a deal with DRT/Universal and released the critically acclaimed album “Slave To The Machine”. The follow-up CD, “Tragic City Symphony”, was released in 2008 on Megaforce/Mascot Records and featured the radio singles “Save My Soul”, “Lindsay Says” and “Porn Star”. All three singles reached the Top 10 on the Active Rock independent chart, with “Save My Soul”reaching Top 5. A live album entitled “Thank You Goodnight!” was released November 2010 through Island Def Jam/New Ocean Media. Shortly after the release of “Thank You Goodnight!”, frontman Jacob Bunton joined up with formerGUNS N’ ROSES drummer Steven Adler to form the band ADLER and bassist Mark Dzier filmed the movie Rock Of Ages as part of the fictitious band Arsenal led byTom Cruise.
For more information, check out the band’s website:
Well, I have read and listened to people discuss the debut performance of Red Dragon Cartel at the world famous Whisky A Go Go in Hollywood. Darren James Smith was raked over the coals and drug through the street. Apparently he had an off night, well that sometimes happens. If you have ever performed on stage in any capacity you know what I’m talking about. There are many things that can affect a performance: nerves, illness, preoccupation with something, or sometimes you are just not feeling it. I have been there before, it happens. It pained me to see people attacking Darren as they did, I’m sure it hurt him. People were saying “he’s no Ray Gillen” we know that and I don’t think Jake E. Lee was trying to recreate another Badlands either, this was a new band with new life. There are several things that I feel (and these are just my opinions) affected this show in particular. First off the amount of press this show got was immense, no pressure there right? A lot of bands have time to hone their live performances before the press descends upon them. Not these guys, we were inundated with minute to minute updates. Second, I understand he had strep throat which sucks on any level but for a vocalist it’s devastating. Being sick and performing really does suck, been there, done that. Pile on these things to pushing yourself, learning songs, traveling it all adds up.
I am sure that Red Dragon Cartel did not just pick Darren James Smith arbitrarily. There was something there and some chemistry between them that sparked the fire. Let’s give them the chance to find their groove and rock our ears!
I does my heart to good to see the smile on the face of Jake E. Lee. He is writing songs and back on stage where he belongs.
Oh yeah, “Bark At The Moon” – Thanks Jake we know you wrote it!
Rock Radio Legend LOU BRUTUS Holds First Ever Photo Exhibition
Ten LOU BRUTUS Concert Photos Are Currently Up for Bid on eBay with All Money Going to Wounded Warrior Project
Brutus Will Meet with Fans in Madison, WI on Saturday December 14, 2013 at An Exhibition of the Photographs. Select Images Will Also Be Shown in the Lobby of Madison’s Orpheum Theatre That Evening
Rock Radio legend LOU BRUTUS, who was recently voted Best DJ in America by voters in the Rock Radio Awards sponsored by Radio Contraband, is exhibiting his concert photography for the very first time with ten of the images currently being auctioned on eBay to benefit Wounded Warrior Project.
The photographs, taken at various locations around the United States, include onstage images of Avenged Sevenfold, Slipknot, Five Finger Death Punch, Stone Sour, Shinedown, Halestorm, Disturbed, KoRn, Volbeat, and Jackyl. The photos, culled from the thousands Brutus has shot over his career, were chosen via fan votes on his Facebook page. Each has been framed and matted with the mat hand signed by Brutus in pencil.
Apart from his broadcast career, Lou is an accomplished photographer. His lighthouse photography has graced magazine covers and he has worked the last six seasons as an on field Major League Baseball photographer. He often shoots rock bands as he travels the world to interview them. This is the first time his photography has ever been available for purchase.
Brutus will exhibit the photographs and meet with fans at Diego’s at118 State Streetin Madison, WI on Saturday December 14, 2013 beginning at 4:30pm CT. Admission is free to the public. While the auction will be closed by that time, those photos will be displayed as well as other images by Brutus that can be won by raffle with the proceeds again benefiting Wounded Warrior Project. Following which, select images from the exhibit will be set up for viewing in the lobby of the Orpheum Theatre in Madison at the Halestorm/Redlight King/Stars in Stereo show.
LOU BRUTUS is best known for his seventeen plus years of national syndication as the host of hardDrive with Lou Brutus and hardDrive XL with Lou Brutus, which can be heard on over 100 radio stations nationwide, as well as his work on other national radio platforms. He has done local shows in Chicago, Philadelphia, Boston, Washington DC, and Providence.
Brutus has also hosted radio specials and/or created radio channels for Metallica, Slipknot, Stone Sour, Rush, Disturbed, Theory of a Deadman, Smashing Pumpkins, and countless others. He was the very first to give national airplay to innumerable bands including Slipknot, Avenged Sevenfold, Disturbed, Halestorm,Five Finger Death Punch, Godsmack and Sevendust.
LOU BRUTUS is currently working on his first book. It’s a collection of music industry war stories and photography, mixed with the museum sized collection of music memorabilia he has collected in his travels including thousands of backstage passes, ticket stubs, guitar picks, and concert posters. It will be entitled “One Man – Two Thousand Concerts: The Greatest Freakin’ Collection of Music Junk and Stories in History.” Sample chapter titles include “The Time Our Tour Bus Ran Over A Suicidal Crack Head on the New Jersey Turnpike,” “The Time I Hid in A Broom Closet So Frank Sinatra’s Bodyguards Wouldn’t Break My Legs, Wrap Me in Chain Link Fence & Drop Me Into the Ocean”, and “The Time I Went to the Arctic and Got In A Mosh Pit with A Bunch of Eskimos While Metallica Sang About Fucking A Goat.”
FRET 12 RELEASING 3 NEW GUITAR INSTRUCTIONAL DVD’S JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
The Popular The Sound and the Story Series Returns With New Installments from Josh Rand of Stone Sour, Jim Root from Slipknot/Stone Sour and Myles Kennedy and Mark Tremonti of Alter Bridge
(December 12, 2013 – New York, NY) – Fret12 is proud to announce 3 new installments in their ever-expanding lineup of the popular guitar instructional/documentary series, The Sound and the Story. The new installments feature Josh Rand of Stone Sour, Jim Root from Slipknot/Stone Sour and Myles Kennedy and Mark Tremonti of Alter Bridge. TheSound and The Story DVD series is quickly becoming known for featuring comprehensive guitar lessons taught by the artist – featuring fan-favorite songs. All 3 versions are available for order on the Fret12 website in various configurations and can be found at www.fret12.com.
The Josh Rand installment of The Sound and the Story features over 90 minutes of lessons taught by Josh and also offers a never-before-seen look inside the dramatic life story of Stone Sour’s guitarist. The lessons include tips on alternate picking, finger independence, hammer ons/pull offs, string skipping, sweep picking, musical modes and exotic scales. In addition there are in-depth lessons on how to play 7 of Josh’s signature solos. It also includes a 46-page tablature book that was verified by Josh himself. A preview for Josh Rand: The Sound and the Story can be seen here: http://tinyurl.com/JoshRandPreview.
Slipknot/Stone Sour guitarist Jim Root’s 2-disc collection offers an-depth look at the origins of his style, the sounds that add up to create his signature sound, and the emotional story that has molded him into the musician he is today. Jim Root: The Sound and the Story features 11 complete songs: covering solos, riffs, leads, overlays, effects usage and more! Jim’s DVD set includes a 60-minute documentary and over 3 ½ hours of lessons. A preview for Jim Root:The Sound and the Story can be seen here: http://tinyurl.com/JimRootPreview.
Mark Tremonti of Alter Bridge is no stranger to The Sound and the Story series. He made one previously after Alter Bridge released their Blackbird album. Now Mark returns for his second installment with Myles Kennedy by his side. Together they walk you through each song from Alter Bridge’s latest release, Fortress. The 2-disc set contains in-depth track-by-track instruction of the critically acclaimed album. There is also a 45-minute documentary featuring an in-studio look at the recording of Fortress and interviews that highlight the band’s creative process. Alter Bridge: The Sound and the Story will be available later this month.
Along with the DVDs, fans can connect at FRET12.com; which offers a full online store catering to guitarists and guitar culture. FRET12 also features tablature, over 250 professional guitarist interviews and rig tours, as well as social platforms with active followings of guitar enthusiasts, musicians and fans to interact and network with.
LAMB OF GOD Partners with Specticast for Worldwide Distribution of “As The Palaces Burn” Feature Film
LAMB OF GOD is pleased to announce that they have entered in to a worldwide distribution deal with Specticast (Led Zeppelin Celebration Day, Paul McCartney Rock Show) for their Don Argott (Last Days Here, Art of the Steal, School of Rock) directed feature film “As The Palaces Burn”. Filming for the feature began in 2012 and concluded in March of 2013.
“As The Palaces Burn”, not to be confused with the making-of documentary packaged with the recent re-release of the 2003 LAMB OF GOD album of the same name, was conceived to be a documentary focused on the power of music and its impact on cultures around the world and its ability to bring together people of all nationalities regardless of religious or political differences. After a worldwide casting call, filming took place in Colombia, Venezuela, Israel, India, and the United States. As filming reached its conclusion, the documentary was forced to take a major turn when the band’s lead singer, Randy Blythe, was arrested in the Czech Republic and charged with the murder of a fan in June 2012. Granted unique access to Blythe’s continuing saga, Argott’s filming covered Blythe’s 38 day imprisonment in Prague, his release and the band’s return to live performances, and finally Blythe’s trial for murder in Prague in February 2013.
“As The Palaces Burn” will debut worldwide on February 27th. Following the film, a 30 minute Q&A with the entire band and director Don Argott will be shown. The Q&A was conducted by VH1 Classics Eddie Trunk and filmed at the final show of the band’s North American tour in support of their most recent release, Resolution.
It’s that time of year, and DISFIGURING THE GODDESS is in the giving spirit. Not only does the brand new death-tastic record AdreDeprive drop today, but DTG mastermind Cameron Argon has revealed a second, completely new, completely separate full-length album for fans, entitled Black Earth Child. What a twist! Both records are streaming now via MetalInjection.net. Listen here.
With this unprecedented move, fans can pick up both records now, digitally and physically, via the official DTG Benchmark merch store:http://www.shopbenchmark.com/disfiguringthegoddess. Not only are the records available via the DTG Benchmark site, but so is a slew of Deprive AND Black Earth Child merch! Check out the bundles, including a new and exclusive Black Earth Child hoodie and t-shirt.
Cameron Argon comments on his decision to release two completely separate records: “To put it simply, during the process of writing and recording Deprive, I realized I wasn’t done, that I had more in me. I decided to make this second record, Black Earth Child, start to finish in about four weeks time and release it as a surprise – two albums, one day. So here are two separate albums. Directly from me to you.”
The stellar album art for Black Earth Child (above) is illustrated by none other than brutal death metal illustrator Toshihiro Egawa, who is also responsible for the haunting art for Deprive (below).
To learn more about DISFIGURING THE GODDESS, please visit these sites:
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.
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:
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:
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 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:
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 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 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 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 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.
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 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 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:
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 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:
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.
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!
The Vegas strip had nothing on the Sunset Strip when it came to rock ‘n’ roll, and a new multi-media show is bringing that experience to the stage in a special sneak preview. LET IT RAWK will debut in the Chrome Showroom at Santa Fe Station and Casino in Las Vegas on Saturday, January 18 at 9pm PST.
LET IT RAWK is a loud, colorful, energetic and interactive experience of the hair metal era on LA’s Sunset Strip. The showroom and stage will be infused with the sights and energy of a legendary rock club. Performed by guys who were there, shaping the scene, the show’s playlist includes the greatest hits from the ‘80s and early ‘90s. From Warrant to Motley Crue the best anthems will be performed in all the glory of the day. And hits from the LET IT RAWK band’s careers are highlights.
The LET IT RAWK band is the real deal. It’s fronted by Black “N Blue and ex-Warrant vocalist Jaime St. James. Guitarist Oz Fox is in the platinum-selling Christian glam rock band, Stryper. Dokken’s Sean McNabb has played bass for other Kings of The Sunset Strip including Great White and Quiet Riot. Drummer Brent Fitz from Slash And The Conspirators will be slamming the skins. Brent has also played for Vince Neil and Alice Cooper. The band will also feature floating members, such as Eddie Ojeda from Twisted Sister and Bullet Boys original drummer Jimmy D’Anda. The anchor of the band is LET IT RAWK’s creator and producer, Stacey Blades.
Stacey’s ten years with L.A. Guns cemented him as a must-watch guitar player, and his final record with the band, HOLLYWOOD FOREVER, earned him critical acclaim for his exceptional fretwork. He left the band last year to pursue his other projects, including LET IT RAWK. “I have been diligently working on this project since last March, and am super stoked to be sharing the stage with such awesome guys and talented musicians. The show will be playing a few times a month here in Vegas and then be doing casino shows nationally, LET IT RAWK! See you out there!”
LET IT RAWK debuts in the Chrome Showroom at Santa Fe Station and Casino, 4949 North Rancho Drive, Las Vegas, on Saturday, January 18 at 9pm PST. General admission tickets are $21. VIP meet-and-greet upgrades will be available soon. Tickets are available athttp://www.ticketmaster.com/event/17004B798ED17265.
the Hellion Rocks 