Tag Archives: Rock N’ Roll

How important is the image of a band?

by

7

Does a bands image really matter? Do people really care what the band looks like? Let’s look into it.

KISS:

ImageImage

Would anyone have ever given them a second look without the makeup and bombastic shows? Was it the image that made them or their music? I am a “Classic Kiss” fan. I admit it was the makeup that led to the Kiss Army. I learned to appreciate the music later on, and even later on realized they really weren’t stellar musicians but at that point it no longer mattered. Kiss carries on performing their classics in full makeup to sold out crowds.So with Kiss I say yes, image is predominant.

WINGER:

ImageImage

Here is a band of outstanding musicians whose image caused them some grief. Winger was often dismissed as “Pretty Boys” and never given a chance to show they ROCKED! Beavis and Butthead even poked fun at Winger. I was appreciative of the playing skills of Kip Winger – bass guitar, string arrangements, vocals Reb Beach – guitars, vocals Rod Morgenstein – drums, vocals Paul Taylor – keyboards, vocals. If you put aside the macho insecurity and just listened you will find Winger is an outstanding band.

the BEATLES:

ImageImage

Mop Tops, to Hippies the Beatles kept their image current to the happenings around them. They were groomed for most of their early career and set the standard for young bands of the time.A lot of bands based their own image upon that of the Beatles. Towards the later years, however, they found their own individuality which I feel reflected upon their music.

Judas Priest: 

ImageImageImage

We have all seen the progression of the “image” of Judas Priest. When they first hit the scene they were almost hippiesque in their appearance. Then they set the bar for metalheads. Leather, spikes, motorcycles…little did we know it was Rob Halford’s way of coming out to the world. Did it matter when he finally came out publicly? HELL NO because the Priest ROCKED! In my opinion they still have one of the great “looks” for a band.

BLACK VEIL BRIDES:

ImageImage

The Black Veil Brides hit my radar in 2009. I told my self with a total image makeover there could be something. 2012, I was right, BVB are everywhere. While not on my regular listening rotation this band is making a name for itself. Paying homage to Kiss/Motley Crue/Glam Rock, BVB catches the eye for sure.

Does imagery affect a band? I was recently at a local show and saw several people just hanging out at the venue. I didn’t know they were a band, they got on stage played and got off. No show, no unity as band. I think that a stage performance should be just that, a performance.

Part two coming soon featuring: Twisted Sister, Slipknot, Glam bands, Death/Black metal bands, Mudvayne, Ghost,  and more!!!

Update: Looks like a three part topic: Lordi, Gwar and more to be included! Thanks Aj!

RUSH – A FAREWELL TO KINGS

by

0

Image

http://www.rush.com/rush/

http://www.facebook.com/rushtheband

Released on September 1st 1977 A Farewell to Kings is the fifth studio album by Canadian rock band Rush. The album was recorded at Rockfield Studios in Wales, and mixed at Advision Studios in London. A Farewell to Kings would become Rush’s first US Gold-selling album, receiving the certification within two months of its release, and was eventually certified Platinum. Geddy Lee originally wrote his bass lines on his acoustic bass. The birds heard on “A Farewell to Kings” and “Xanadu” were recorded outside near Rockfield Studios.

1.”A Farewell to Kings”
2.”Xanadu”
3.”Closer to the Heart”
4.”Cinderella Man”
5.”Madrigal” 2:35
6.”Cygnus X-1 Book I: The Voyage”

I used to put on my headphones and escape into this album when things got to be too much. It took me on a journey to a magical place of wonder where there was no suffering and no pain. “A Farewell To Kings”  set the pace with its march like beat and strong lyrics. “Xanadu” with its ethereal opening and grandiose build to filled my mind with the wonderment of finding such a place and it became a welcome daydream escape for me many times. “Closer To The Heart” holds a beautiful melody and I imagined being on a ship in a distant land and time with the sea and wind in my hair. “Cinderella Man” reminds me of a traveling minstrel long ago traveling to many places seeking understanding. “Madrigal” had me lying in a grassy meadow dreaming as the clouds rolled by, hoping to find a the love of my life someday (which I did in 1985 and am still with in 2012). “Cygnus X-1 Book I: The Voyage” snatched me to the stars on an epic journey. This track filled me with awe in 1977 and still does to this day. The structuring of it back then gives modern tracks a run for their money. This entire album remains in my heart now and forever as a journey to places safe and warm during my chaotic youth. Thank you RUSH for the escape.

Image

 

Here’s a taste:

 

How has the advent of social media affected the music business?

by

5

Image SDMF_Philly asked about this. Here you go brother! I feel that the mix of social media and the music world is a double edged sword. On one hand a band is able to get their music out to the world a lot faster. The use of social networks allows for bands to keep their fan base in the loop. Bands can give an up to the minute report of the events of touring, studio, video time. Social networks can also bands to use their fan base to advertise for them. What better than free advertising from willing participants? On the other side with EVERYONE using social media how does one keep from being lost in the flood? I am of the opinion that getting new fans is extremely difficult due to the sheer number of bands on the web. I also feel that some of the excitement and anticipation of waiting for a new release from a band is gone. I can remember having discussions with friends and wondering what our favorite bands new albums were going to be called, or what it would sound like. Now we know months a head of time all of the details. Social media? Like it or not it’s here to stay. I’m just gonna put the MP3 player on shuffle, get my headphones, and ROCK OUT!! Here’s a killer new track from Testament:

What do you mean Rock N’ Roll isn’t relevant any more?

by

2

Image

I was talking to someone yesterday when the subject of music came up. For some reason music ALWAYS seems to come up in my conversations. The conversation went to why Rock music takes a back seat to other styles.  Someone said that Rock wasn’t a money maker anymore. Yet everywhere you turn it’s “Rockstar” this or “Rockstar” that. If  “Rockstar” is the baseline then to me that says something. Why isn’t there the “American Rock Awards”? The Rock N’ Roll Hall Of Fame? uhhh no. Where is my ROCK video music channel? HMMM??? Nobody cares a bout rock music? I don’t think so. That got me thinking about the presence of Rock and how sets in record sales and tour attendance. I ‘m gonna take look and share some info with ya.

40 million copies or more:

There are 11 albums that have achieved this status. Out of those 11, 5 yes 5 fall in to the Rock category

AC/DC – BACK IN BLACK : 50 MILLION SOLD, YES 50 MILLION

PINK FLOYD – DARK SIDE OF THE MOON:  50 MILLION AS WELL!

MEATLOAF – BAT OUT OF HELL: 43 MILLION

EAGLES – THEIR GREATEST HITS (1971 – 1975): 42 MILLION

FLEETWOOD MAC – RUMOURS: 40 MILLION

30–39 million copies

Out of the 17 albums that fall in this category  10 are Rock

LED ZEPPELIN – IV: 37 MILLION

ALANIS MORISETTE – JAGGED LITTLE PILL: 33 MILLION

THE BEATLES – SGT. PEPPERS LONELY HEARTS CLUB BAND: 32 MILLION

THE BEATLES – 1: 31 MILLION

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN – BORN IN THE U.S.A.: 30 MILLION

DIRE STRAITS – BROTHERS IN ARMS: 30 MILLION

IRON BUTTERFLY- IN-A-GADDA-DA-VIDA: 30 MILLION

PINK FLOYD – THE WALL: 30 MILLION

METALLICA – METALLICA: 30 MILLION

NIRVANA – NEVERMIND: 30 MILLION

WOW! it seems like Rock dominates record sales. Now let’s look at the top grossing music tours:

Out of the top 20 grossing tours 16 are Rock N’ Roll tours:

U2 – $736,421,586 :  360º Tour

The Rolling Stones – $558,255,524: A Bigger Bang Tour

AC/DC-  $441,121,000 : Black Ice World Tour

U2- $389,047,636: Vertigo Tour

THE POLICE –$358,825,665 : The Police Reunion Tour

ROGER WATERS- $349,240,698 : The Wall

THE ROLLING STONES –$336,017,048 : Bridges To Babylon Tour / No Security Tour

THE ROLLING STONES- $316,365,576 : Voodoo Lounge Tour

THE ROLLING STONES  –$299,520,230 : Licks Tour

THE EAGLES –$251,112,882 : Long Road Out Of Eden Tour

PINK FLOYD- $250,000,000 : The Division Bell Tour

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN – $235,000,000 : Magic Tour

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN – $221,500,000 : The Rising Tour

METALLICA – $217,245,629 : World Magnetic Tour

BON JOVI – $210,650,974 : Lost Highway Tour

BON JOVI – $201,000,000 : The Circle Tour

Seems like Rock N’ Roll music is alive and well to me.  There is nothing wrong with other genres of music, any thing that fire up the soul is ok in my book. Just don’t count Rock N’ Roll out. Love your music? SHOUT IT OUT TO THE WORLD!  ANY QUESTIONS? I’m gonna leave you with my new theme song!!!:

 

the Hellion

10 bands that should be in the ears of the WORLD. The radio won’t play them, but I’ll spread the word.

by

7

Image

There are some really great bands out there. Unfortunately corporate radio will not play them. I’m gonna give you ten of them right here. In no order and the first of many Blogs like this, I will be bringing you new bands that I feel should be heard around the world. Let’s get it on!:

1. Scattered Hamlet

Image

http://www.scatteredhamlet.com/

http://www.facebook.com/ScatteredHamlet

A good old fashioned Rock band, when you see ’em live it’s just like a gatherin’.

“Hillbilly Harmony” here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdq1dUf11ws

2. Crowned By Fire

Image

http://crownedbyfire.com/

http://www.facebook.com/CrownedByFire

The evil spawn of Lemmy and Sabbath with a nod from Zakk Wylde himself and you’ve CBF listen if you dare! :

“I Spit On Your Curse”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiOIKvLrDXg

3. Voice Of December

Image

http://www.voiceofdecember.com/index.htm

http://www.facebook.com/vodband

Stark imagery, eclectic lyrics, brilliant musicianship give this band credibility.  A VOD show will not leave your mind readily. When you’re in, you’re in for good.

be their “Guest” right here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rykom1HP6nQ

4. Sunset Riot

Image

http://www.sunsetriot.com/Sunset_Riot/Home.html

http://www.facebook.com/sunsetriot?ref=ts

A FUN band that likes to give a great show as much as they love to give great music. Give a listen and get bit!

“Rattlesnake” : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMQGRhrA9W8

5. Die Hard Til Death

Image

http://www.diehardtilldeath.com/

http://www.facebook.com/DieHardTillDeath

This band is proud to be Metal! Make no mistake some ass kicking will go down right here!

Do you have “The Will”? : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M30BVfGJVEw&feature=fvwrel

6. Fear Death Xperience

Image

http://www.facebook.com/pages/FEAR-DEATH-XPERIENCE/25562763683

A new band from the UK that burned its way into my ears and now is running around freely in my madhouse of a mind. some Classic sound mixed with new. I love it.

“Shallow The Grave”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pkltZ4I3jfM&feature=related

7. Rusty Tramp

Image

http://polyrammusic.com/rusty-tramp/

http://www.facebook.com/RustyTramp

Yeah! Let’s get back to the Feel good party band times! Rusty Tramp brings it in a BIG way. Shoot for the stars boys!

“Liar Liar” : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaOZq8sxnkU

8. The Hard Ponys

Image

http://www.thehardponys.com/

http://www.facebook.com/thehardponys

The Hard Ponys hearken back to the LA sleaze days and that make me very happy. Now if I only had a Hard Ponys T-Shirt……Give a listen!

“Psychodoll” : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wRrbXQY898

9. Mindset Evolution

Image

http://mindsetevolution.com/wp/

http://www.facebook.com/mindsetevolution

I had the pleasure of interviewing these guys recently. Fun guys, great band glad to see they are chasing the dream! These guys remain in touch with reality!

“Relevant” :  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tM4emrS61A

10. Texas Hippie Coalition

Image

thcoutlaw.­com

http://www.facebook.com/texashippiecoalition

When you throw THC in the CD player you automatically get a little more baddass. I feel like somebody poured a bottle of Jack out on the Texas ground and these guys sprouted out of it.

“Troublesome Times” : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy33nprcFxU

Just the first ten bands I want to bring to the attention of the WORLD!!! Many more to come. I am not afraid to spread the word about bands I love. They’ll get played right here!

the Hellion.

Why do we like the music we do?

by

2

Image

 

Is it the driving beat or guitar hook? Is it the poignant lyrics? Is it the image of the band? A combination of any or all of the above? Personally it is the all of the above that catch my ear. Sometimes I’ll catch a hook of a song that sticks with me and I’ll check the band out and sometimes it turns out well. With others sometimes I’ll read a snippet of a lyric or again It’ll stand out to me. And yet other times I’ll see  a picture or a video that piques my interest. Obviously there is more than those things but those were the three leaders to a band that were thrown at me by readers. I wonder if some people “brainwash” themselves into liking a band because of one or more of those reasons. Let’s take a look at three videos  from one band  that touch on those  three reasons VELVET REVOLVER. 

Image

The “image”: the video for “She Builds Quick Machines” caught my eye even before my mind had time to process the song. Being a fan of “Spaghetti Westerns” I fell in love with this video and then the song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Hqe3jMHhvA

The “hook”: “Slither” had my interest from the opening notes of the song. The catchy riff kept it through to the end. Great hook that worms its way into your head and burrows deep: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKz2U4fvA4U

The “lyrics”: “Fall To Pieces” hit me like a hammer. “I keep a journal of memories I’m feeling lonely, I can’t breathe
I fall to pieces, I’m falling Fell to pieces and I’m still falling” just seem to hit home with me: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JhsUFuqbCM

There you have it, one band, three songs, and three different reasons for liking those songs. Feelings? Thoughts? Comments? All are welcome!

the Hellion

 

 

 

 

Love the band….but the song is WAY over played.

by

1

Image

Like the band? But can’t stand the song? Probably gonna piss some people off with this one.

LED ZEPPELIN – STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmKeIlJq4gM

I will always love Led Zeppelin but I have heard Stairway to Heaven far too many times to fully enjoy it any more.

KISS – ROCK AND ROLL ALL NITE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFMD7Usflbg

Kiss remains one of my favorite bands from my youth. This song however has become monotonous to me to the point of having to turn it off when I hear it.

AEROSMITH – DREAM ON:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txlXcJDtDwM&feature=related

Sorry to say, the opening notes of this one make me cringe. The radio ruined it for me.

Not meant to piss anyone off, just an observation. Post away, tell me yours.

the Hellion

Revolving Vocalists- How does changing a front man affect a band?

by

1

In the world of Rock N’ Roll sometimes band members come and go. It’s in the nature of the business. Drugs, money, egos, and sometimes death can alter a band. We all know bands that have changed members so let’s look at a few and see the results.

AC/DC: BON SCOTT to BRIAN JOHNSON

Image

BON SCOTT 1974-1980

BRIAN JOHNSON 1980-

AC/DC was on the rise of US success with the August 3rd, 1979 release of HIGHWAY TO HELL when tragedy struck. Bon Scott and AC/DC were in the process of developing the album which would become BACK IN BLACK when the unthinkable happened. On 19 February 1980, Scott, 33 at the time, passed out after a night of heavy drinking in a London club called the Music Machine (currently known as the KOKO). He was left to sleep in a Renault 5 owned by an acquaintance named Alistair Kinnear, at 67 Overhill Road in East Dulwich, South London. The following afternoon, Kinnear found Scott lifeless, and alerted the authorities. Scott was rushed to King’s College Hospital in Camberwell, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Pulmonary aspiration of vomit was the cause of Scott’s death, and the official cause was listed as “acute alcohol poisoning” and “death by misadventure”. The band thought about hanging it up for a while but, after a visit with the parents of Bon Scott, decided to carry in his honor. Angus Young later recalled, “I remember the first time I had ever heard Brian’s (Johnson) name was from Bon. Bon had mentioned that he had been in England once touring with a band and he had mentioned that Brian had been in a band called Geordie and Bon had said ‘Brian Johnson, he was a great rock and roll singer in the style of Little Richard.’ And that was Bon’s big idol, Little Richard. I think when he saw Brian at that time, to Bon it was ‘Well he’s a guy that knows what rock and roll is all about.’ He mentioned that to us in Australia. I suppose when we decided to continue, Brian was the first name that Malcolm and myself came up with, so we said we should see if we can find him.” The rest, as the world knows, is history as AC/DC has carried on to become icons on the world of Rock. In my own opinion they are two different bands (I take this opinion of several other bands as well). I like them both but I feel they were a harder, darker, and more dangerous band with Bon. With Brian they are more of a friends band at a keg party type of band, just my opinion. AC/DC continues to this day.  Let’s compare Bon and Brian:

“Highway to Hell” – Bon Scott: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_5kv8QeBBc&feature=fvst

“Highway to Hell” – Brian Johnson: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7svqfVu468&feature=related

VAN HALEN: DAVID LEE ROTH/ SAMMY HAGAR/ GARY CHERONE

Image

DAVID LEE ROTH  1972-1985

Van Halen came on the scene like gangbusters and were moving up and up riding the wave of success and then Dave was gone. Egos, drug use, and too much too fast were the apparent reasons for David and Van Halen splitting up. David went on to record several successful solo records and Van Halen moved on.

SAMMY HAGAR 1985-1996

Eddie invited Patty Smyth of Scandal to replace Roth but she refused. Eddie was then introduced by way of a mutual auto mechanic to Sammy Hagar, formerly of 1970s band Montrose. This was the shot in the arm Van Halen was looking for. Van Halen went on  to stellar success with Sammy writing some fantastic music along the way. But all was not perfect with this line up either. Fired or quit, Sammy was out of the band in 1996.

GARY CHERONE 1996-1999

Gary Cherone known for being the singer of the band Extreme was tapped to be the next VH vocalist. Van Halen III was recorded and sad to say didn’t take off. Let’s give a listen to the three vocalist of Van Halen:

“Unchained” – David Lee Roth: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2Qatc4K85A

“Unchained” – Sammy Hagar: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=185roOKaUuQ

“Unchained: – Gary Cherone: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oygJouHFnsk

Van Halen continues on today welcoming back David Lee Roth back to the fold. Sadly original bassist Michael Anthony has been replaced. New record, new bassist (Wolfgang Van Halen) new world tour, let’s see where it takes them. My opinion is with each vocalist we got a new band, same name, but new band.

BLACK SABBATH: OZZY OSBOURNE TO DIO

Image

I know there were other members of Sabbath but we are just going to look at the Ozzy/Dio versions.

OZZY OSBOURNE 1969 TO 1979

Ozzy and company rose to stardom with their dark and doom laden music. Like so many others before them success also got to them. The reckless lifestyle Ozzy  was living led to his dismissal in 1979.

RONNIE JAMES DIO 1979 TO 1982

Ironically Sharon Arden (later Sharon Osbourne), daughter of Black Sabbath manager Don Arden, suggested former Rainbow vocalist Ronnie James Dio to replace Ozzy Osbourne in 1979. Dio officially joined in June, and the band began writing their next album. With a notably different vocal style from Osbourne’s, Dio’s addition to the band marked a change in Black Sabbath’s sound.

Let’s look at some differences:

“War Pigs” – Ozzy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3K0PvO2Dr4

“War Pigs” – Dio: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IG1lEiOUclc

I am going to stop at three bands. I know there are several more to discuss, maybe a part 2 blog. I also plan to discuss replacing musicians within a band as well. Some of the singers discussed here have left us may they Rest In Peace:

Ronald Belford “Bon” Scott (9 July 1946 – 19 February 1980)

Ronald James “DIO” Padavona (July 10, 1942 – May 16, 2010)

While others, OZZY, David Lee Roth, have rejoined to band mates. What is your take on replacing singers? I feel like they become a “different” band. Let me know!

Thanks to my best friend, my love, and my partner in crime, my wife Dani for this idea!

the Hellion

My top 5 albums of all time – the Hellion

by

2

I was recently asked online by my friend Mark (SDMF_Philly) to blog about my to 5 albums of all time. So here we go. These are in no kind of order they are just the five albums that I can listen to over and over (there are many more but these five just out at me right away). Let’s get started:

THE BEATLES – REVOLVER

Image

released on 5 August 1966

1. “Taxman”
2. “Eleanor Rigby”
3. “I’m Only Sleeping”
4. “Love You To”
5. “Here, There and Everywhere”
6. “Yellow Submarine”
7. “She Said She Said”
SIDE 2
1. “Good Day Sunshine”
2. “And Your Bird Can Sing”
3. “For No One”
4. “Doctor Robert”
5. “I Want to Tell You”
6. “Got to Get You into My Life”
7. “Tomorrow Never Knows”

I grew up listening to these songs and have over the years (no comments) have grown to appreciate them on so many levels. The Beatles have always remained an influence on my musical growth. I will be blogging about the influence of the Beatles on music soon. My favorite track off of this album is “Love You To” I just love the vibe of this song. Check it out here:   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MF90rX43VpE

LYNYRD SKYNYRD – (Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd)

Image

released on August 13th 1973

1. “I Ain’t the One”
2. “Tuesday’s Gone”
3. “Gimme Three Steps”
4. “Simple Man”

5. “Things Goin’ On”
6. “Mississippi Kid”
7. “Poison Whiskey”
8. “Free Bird”

My mom (may she Rest In Peace) used to sing “Simple Man” to me when I was younger. My step dad was a country fan but he allowed this record to be played in the house. I loved the feel of these now classic songs. I could put this record on the turntable and just go to a different place. This is a timeless record to me and still gets plenty of play. Here is a link to “Simple Man” I hope I’ve done you proud mom: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paUGhVQfBpw

VAN HALEN – VAN HALEN II

Image

released on March 23, 1979

Van Halen changed the game. Style, great vocals, KILLER riffs, feel good music in a feel good time. II is my favorite VH record for all of those reasons. I actually picked this record up the day it came out and ran all of the way home to hear it. I must have played it twenty times that day. It still sounds as fresh to me in this day as it did back then. My favorite track is “Women in Love” the intro to the closing notes are still amazing. Check out the song here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-HTBen7_CE

GUNS N ROSES – APPETITE FOR DESTRUCTION

Image

released on July 21, 1987

1. “Welcome to the Jungle”
2. “It’s So Easy”
3. “Nightrain”
4. “Out ta Get Me”
5. “Mr. Brownstone”
6. “Paradise City”
7. “My Michelle”
8. “Think About You”
9. “Sweet Child o’ Mine”
10. “You’re Crazy”
11. “Anything Goes”
12. “Rocket Queen”

Another game changer. The sheer aggression on  this record quickly grabbed my attention. The power, bravado and devil-may-care ways gave the music world a shot in the arm. Another record that you put on and listen to open to close. GNR did their homework on looks and hooks and manged to keep the F@%K you attitude. “It’s So Easy” stands out the most to me on this record “See me hit you, you fall down” love that lyric. Check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNE2Oqut238&feature=related

RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS – CALIFORNICATION

Image

released June 8. 1999

1. “Around the World”
2. “Parallel Universe”
3. “Scar Tissue”
4. “Otherside”
5. “Get on Top”
6. “Californication”
7. “Easily”
8. “Porcelain”
9. “Emit Remmus”
10. “I Like Dirt”
11. “This Velvet Glove”
12. “Savior”
13. “Purple Stain”
14. “Right on Time”
15. “Road Trippin'”

The thing I like best about Red Hot Chili Peppers is their “We play what we want to” style. You never know what you are going to get from a new RHCP record. This one marked the return of guitarist/songwriter John Frusciante to the band. The tracks are soulful and plain beautiful. the layered vocals, and lyrics make this a magical record for me. My stand out track is “This Velvet Glove”  the lyrics”  “Sailin’ for the sun cause there is one Knows where I’m from I care for you I really do, I really do” just hit me.  here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UiqSl0bfWro

There you have it 5 albums that mean the world to me. Thanks

the Hellion

Australia ROCKS! Sunset Riot, RAGDOLL, My Dynamite, Sisters Doll, BABYJANE

by

4

Image

AC/DC, INXS, Little River Band, Men At Work…Australia has given us some great music. Through my recent involvement as a co-host on the internet radio show Bleach Bangs http://www.bleachbangs.com/ I have found a new crop of bands that are carrying the torch. The 80’s have come and gone here in the US but the influence is still being felt in Australia. Let’s talk about a few of the stand out bands:

SUNSET RIOT

Image

http://www.sunsetriot.com/Sunset_Riot/Home.html

I have actually had the pleasure of hanging out with and seeing Sunset Riot perform several times.

Image

The music Sunset Riot brings is addicting and worms its way into your head and you find yourself singing them without even realizing it. The guys themselves are extremely friendly and warm. They treat every one with kindness and respect and make their fans feel special. Del- vocals, JP – guitars, Ziggy- guitars, Resh – drums, and newly added Simo- bass have found the right equation for feel good Rock N Roll. do yourself a favor and check out this band. Here is a link to their video for Save Me From L.A.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxgyaEiaZn4

RAGDOLL

Image

http://www.ragdollrock.com/

Ragdoll brings forth some powerful music that pays homage to some of the hard rock acts we all know and love. I have not had the privilege of seeing them live but my co-hosts have and I can appreciate them through their experience. I find this band easy to listen to and am glad they are writing songs in the style of 80’s feel good rock! Their appearance at Rocklahoma was good and I am glad to see they are able to come here to the US and share with us. Ragdoll is: Ry Dash – VOCALS/BASS,  Le’on Todd – GUITARS/BACKGROUND VOCALS, and  Cam Barrett – DRUMS/BACKGROUND VOCALS Here is a video link to my favorite song “Foot to the Floor” : http://www.youtube.com/watch?annotation_id=annotation_151047&feature=iv&src_vid=tyzxA2o7b10&v=YZqgru0QCIw

MY DYNAMITE

Image

http://mydynamite.net/home.cfm

Love bluesy rock? My Dynamite will satisfy that love. The Black Crowes have been one of my favorite bands for years. My Dynamite carries the torch and gives us new music in that style. Who would have thought you could find good old fashioned American blues in Australia? We were fortunate to have had an interview with them and found they are planning a European tour and hopefully we can get them to the US as well. My Dynamite is: Patrick Carmody – Lead Vocals, Jorge Balas – Guitar, Travis Fraser – Bass, Simon Aarons – Drums, and Benny Wolf – Guitar. Here is a link to a song I really enjoy “Fork In Your Tongue” : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXvAw6v-V3o&feature=plcp

SISTERS DOLL

Image

http://www.sistersdoll.com/

Remember the Glam of the 80’s how much fun it was to dress up and just have a GOOD TIME? Sisters Doll are trying to bring that back and having fun in doing it. Ranging in age from 14 to 17 these brothers (Brennan Mileto – Lead Guitar/Lead Vocals, Bryce Mileto – Drums/Back Up Vocals, and Austin Mileto – Bass Guitar/Back Up Vocals) yes they are brothers, are bringing the SPECTACLE of Rock N Roll back. I look forward to seeing more from these guys. Here is a link to their video for “Dollhouse” : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ik2yCc8PfAY

BABYJANE

http://www.babyjane.com.au

BABYJANE cites the following as their influences:

Guns N’ Roses, Motley Crue, AC/DC, Rose Tattoo, Skid Row, Sex Pistols, Vains Of Jenna, Van Halen, Alice Cooper, Black Sabbath, The Cult, Faith No More, Megadeth, Pantera. Wow! How you NOT want to give these guys a listen? I checked them out prior to doing an interview with them and was duly impressed. Solid song composition, catchy hooks, and raw sound give these guys an edge that cut you to the quick! DO NOT MISS BABYJANE!! Here’s a link to their EPK I’ll let it speak for itself : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeVUE98g11w

Been missing the 80’s? I found them…in Australia of all places. Can anyone say ROADTRIP???