LEGENDARY GUITARIST MICHAEL SCHENKER ANNOUNCES SPRING NORTH AMERICAN TOUR!

Few rock guitarists have as impressive a resume as Michael Schenker does - as he has supplied his six-string talents to such world-renowned acts as the Scorpions, UFO, and the Michael Schenker Group over the years. And it is now confirmed that Schenker will be touring North America come the spring, in support of his killer new disc, 'Spirit on a Mission,' released March 24, 2015.

Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock line-up proves to be one of the strongest that the German guitarist has ever played with, as it features the former Scorpions "Rock You Like A Hurricane" rhythm section of Francis Buchholz (bass) and Herman Rarebell (drums), as well as Doogie White (vocals, formerly of Rainbow), and Wayne Findlay (guitar/keyboards, and longtime Michael Schenker Group member).

The tour kicks off on March 25th at the Rockbar Theater in San Jose, CA (the day after the release of 'Spirit on a Mission'), and wraps up on May 2nd at the Canyon Club in Agoura Hills, CA (with special guest Don Dokken on the bill). In between, the tour will go coast to coast, including a performance at the Gramercy Theatre in NYC on April 15th.

“Promotion is definitely the next step,” says Schenker of hitting the road in support of 'Spirit on a Mission.' "Wherever we are needed around the world, we will be there to promote 'Spirit On A Mission.' I want to make Temple of Rock its own entity. Right now it is still using the Michael Schenker platform but eventually I want it to stand on its own feet as Temple of Rock." To get a taste of the new line-up, view the video for the tune "Vigilante Man" here: youtube.com/watch?v=21EaEwU4szU

Undoubtedly, this set of North American dates are the first step towards establishing Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock as a global force.

Temple Of Rock — Spirit On A Mission — World Tour
Featuring:
Michael Schenker (guitar)
Doogie White (vocals)
Herman Rarebell (drums)
Francis Buchholz (bass)
Wayne Findlay (7 string guitar/keyboards)

MAR 25 2015 @ Rockbar Theater in San Jose, CA
MAR 27 2015 @ Tonic in Portland, OR
MAR 28 2015 @ Studio Seven in Seattle, WA
APR 01 2015 @ Boardwalk in Orangevale, CA
APR 02 2015 @ Yoshi's in Oakland, CA
APR 03 2015 @ Whisky a Go Go in West Hollywood, CA
APR 04 2015 @ M-15 Concert Hall in Corona, CA
APR 07 2015 @ Vamp'd in Las Vegas, NV
APR 08 2015 @ Livewire Concert Hall in Scottsdale, AZ
APR 10 2015 @ Trees in Dallas, TX
APR 11 2015 @ 210 Kapones Live in San Antonio, TX
APR 12 2015 @ 18th Street in San Leon, TX
APR 15 2015 @ Gramercy Theatre in New York, NY
APR 16 2015 @ Eclipse in Binghamton, NY
APR 17 2015 @ Newton Theatre in Newton, NJ
APR 18 2015 @ The Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ
APR 20 2015 @ Sellersville Theater in Sellersville, PA
APR 22 2015 @ Rockpile West in Toronto, Ontario Canada
APR 23 2015 @ Concord Music Hall in Chicago, IL (Enuff Z Nuff guests on this performance)
APR 24 2015 @ Harpos Concert Hall in Detroit, MI
APR 25 2015 @ Arcada Theatre in St. Charles, IL (Enuff Z Nuff guests on this performance)
APR 26 2015 @ Freaksters in Pontiac, IL
APR 28 2015 @ Buffalo Rose in Golden, CO
APR 30 2015 @ Ramona Mainstage in Ramona, CA
MAY 01 2015 @ Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, CA
MAY 02 2015 @ Canyon Club in Agoura Hills, CA (Special Guest Don Dokken)

Gundriver opening act for entire tour.


FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: www.michaelschenkerhimself.com

MEET & GREET PACKAGES AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT:
www.michaelschenkerstore.com

MORE DETAILS OF ROCK LEGEND RANDY BACHMAN’S NEW ALBUM RELEASED BACHMAN HEAVY BLUES IN STORES & ONLINE APRIL 14, 2015

FIRST US TOUR DATES FOR 2015 ANNOUNCED!

Randy Bachman, the man behind rock anthems such as “Takin’ Care of Business”, “Let It Ride” “You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet” and “American Woman,” will be releasing a brand new album under the moniker BACHMAN with rhythm section of Anna Ruddick on bass and Dale Anne Brendon on drums. 

Heavy Blues will be available worldwide on April 14, 2015 and features an enviable list of Randy Bachman’s contemporaries including Neil Young, Peter Frampton, Joe Bonamassa, Robert Randolph and the late Jeff Healey; each musician contributing their signature-style guitar solos. 

BACHMAN will be touring extensively in 2015, with the first date starting in Milwaukee, WI on April 1. With internationally-acclaimed Kevin Shirley in the producer chair (Iron Maiden, Rush, Led Zeppelin), Heavy Blues marks the rare occasion that Randy Bachman has relinquished the producer reins. “'I’ve known Kevin for many years and watched his producer credits grow to include many rock legends,” explains Randy Bachman. “I knew that he could push me past my limit, pull me onto new paths and direct me down new roads.” 

A legendary figure in the rock n’ roll world, Randy Bachman has earned over 120 gold and platinum album/singles awards around the world for performing and producing. As the co-founder and principal songwriter for The Guess Who and Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Randy Bachman’s monstrous hits have garnered him the coveted #1 spot on radio playlists in over 20 countries and he has amassed over 40 million records sold. 

Watch the making of Heavy Blues EPK right here:

http://youtu.be/cLLJis27164

HEAVY BLUES TRACK LISTING:
1. The Edge
2. Ton Of Bricks (Featuring Scott Holiday)
3. Bad Child (Featuring Joe Bonamassa)
4. Little Girl Lost (Featuring Neil Young)
5. Learn To Fly
6. Oh My Lord (Featuring Robert Randolph)
7. Confessin’ To The Devil (Featuring Jeff Healey)
8. Heavy Blues (Featuring Peter Frampton)
9. Wild Texas Ride
10. Please Come To Paris (Featuring Luke Doucet)
11. We Need To Talk

TOUR DATES (more to be announced): APRIL
1- Potawatomi Bingo Casino- The Northern Lights Theater-Milwaukee, WI
2- The Arcada Theater- St. Charles, IL
4- Quicken Loans Arena- Cleveland, OH
24- Ridgefield Playhouse- Ridgefield, CT
25- The Concert Hall at NY Society for Ethical Culture- New York, NY


 Official Website: http://www.randybachman.com

 

 

SWUNG VOL 1 & 2

27 Jan 2015

CRR.EU - New Music from Classic Rockers
Spotlight: Swung Vol. 1 & 2 (2014 In And Out Of Focus Records)

It's always a challenge to review an instrumental record. Especially that of different musical styles. For myself, it's easier to trash songs with lyrics. More to hate. First off the vocalist who most times thinks, or tries to be not only a unique singer, getting good or bad results, but also the worlds best poet as well, writing their own lyrics. Jon Anderson, original member of Yes, was wonderful at this. And more so as time went by. Others are a matter of opinion. Personally, I skipped Freshman high school English class when it was poetry time, and went off smoking weed in various hiding places around town. That was my answer to a string of very bad writing assignments. I still passed the class. A lot of drama. My solution to all that, was obtaining a GED at age sixteen. And I was never asked to write another fucking Haiku, ever again.

Two Studio Recordings

Swung Vol. 1

Bobby Jacobs (bass), Pierre van der Linden (drums), and Niels van der Steenhoven (guitar).

Swung Vol. 2

Bobby Jacobs (bass), Pierre van der Linden (drums), Menno Gootjes (guitar)

I can say I listened to both CDs about the same amount of times. Comparing the two I dig both Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 equally. Those that know me understand how much I serious dig instrumental music. So no surprise for them if reading this.

Swung Vol. 1 when played on a real home stereo loudly, motivates me to, among other things, to wiggle my old ass around the house while doing laundry. It's magic! Here are dis-scripts to what I hear when emerged in it's sounds; very rhythm & blues - avant garde - nightmarish - infectious - catchy - atmospheric - space groovy - IMPRESSIVE!

The players on this recording, as the same could be said with those associated with Vol. 2, are professional musicians as proficient as anything you hear on the commercial airwaves today. Top of their game actually. All associated with the classic rock band; Focus. The band's greatest hit, Hocus Pocus. One of it's founding members, and musicians on that recording,Pierre van der Linden, still keeping the Focus name still out there. A recent record I would have reviewed, but due to personal stuff at the time, just didn't have the proper time to devote (like I did this one), was Focus - Golden Oldies. Recordings of past hits with Pierre and company giving it their all, plus some. It's worth the sum asked if wondering about making the purchase. I also have the early Focus recordings in my own personal collection. Classic Rock's early masterpieces. Am so glad to have been exposed to their music, and at such an early age.

Swung Vol. 2

A slower paced record when compared to Vol. 1. Freestyle / jam-band sounding / bluesy / tight / guitar driven rock n' roll (same could be said for volume one PLUS a dream rhythm section) / SOLID!

Rating: Using the one to five star rating system, Uncle G give Swung! Vol. 1 & 2 another two, so that equals a 5 star rating. If a fan of Focus, members in and out of Focus, or totally unfamiliar but a general consumer of instrumental rock...this works. Had it in my life a few weeks so far. Played the shit out of both CDs. My choice for greatest hit; Vol. 1 - Adventure 4. Would love to hear / see a live version of that (sounds live in the studio), or any other track on this two CD gem.

Gary Brown
American Correspondent for Classic Rock Radio (CRRdotEU)
Twitter @GBrown0816

RICK SPRINGFIELD

earMUSIC under exclusive license from Loud & Proud Records

to release “Stripped Down”, the new CD/DVD from Grammy award winning artist Rick Springfield on 9 March 2015

earMUSIC under exclusive license from Loud & Proud Records is proud to announce the release of Stripped Down, a new CD/DVD set from Grammy Award winning artist Rick Springfield on 9 March 2015.

For the last two years, Springfield has been treating fans to a special ongoing series of intimate solo performances of his vast repertoire, telling stories, explaining lyrics and generally connecting with his always-loyal fan base. This CD/DVD set features highlights from those performances with compelling video on the DVD as well as a new song, the clever "If Wishes Were Fishes”, plus 14 Springfield songs recorded live, including dynamic covers of the classics "Oh Well," "Rollin' & Tumblin'" and "Baby Blue.”

Springfield says, “I am pretty excited for earMUSIC and Loud & Proud Records’ CD/DVD release of Stripped Down. The conception and execution of my solo storytellers show is something I basically worked on my whole life and it's awesome to bring the finished product to the fans who embraced it with the sold out shows across America in 2014. Now, if you can't make it to one of my 2015 Stripped Down dates live, you can enjoy it in the comfort of your own living room…naked, if you want.”

I

CD Tracklisting:

1. Affair Of The Heart (4:23)

2. Love Is Alright Tonite (3:47)

3. I’ve Done Everything For You (2:47)

4. Painted Girl (2:14)

5. Oh Well (1:57)

6. Love Somebody (2:43)

7. Baby Blue (3:39)

8. Rollin’ & Tumblin’ (3:21)

9. If Wishes Were Fishes (4:55)

10. Don’t Talk To Strangers (2:46)

11. April 24th, 1981/My Father’s Chair (6:36)

12. Me & Johnny (4:09)

13. Human Touch (2:26)

14. Jessie’s Girl (3:10)

DVD Tracklisting:

1. Affair of the Heart

2. Me & Johnny

3. Oh Well

4. Love Is Alright Tonite

5. Rollin’ & Tumblin'

6. Baby Blue

7. Painted Girl

8.  April 24, 1981 / My Father’s Chair

9. If Wishes Were Fishes

10. Love Somebody

11. Our Ships Sinking

12. Jessie’s Girl

13. Human Touch

14. My Depression (credits only)

PAT TRAVERS

FEELIN’ RIGHT

THE POLYDOR ALBUMS 1975-1984

9^TH MARCH 2015

This set brings together all the Polydor albums recorded by Canadian guitarist/vocalist Pat Travers spanning the mid-1970s to 80s. All the tracks have been digitally remastered and the set comes complete with new artwork and liner notes by respected rock journalist, Malcolm Dome.

Born in Toronto in 1954, Travers was inspired to take up guitar when, at the age of just 12 years old, he saw Jimi Hendrix play live. He played in various local bands and got a big break when he was invited to join Ronnie Hawkins’ band but it was his relocation to London in his early 20s, which really saw his career take off.

In London he signed to Polydor Records and released his self-titled debut album in 1976. He was joined on this recording by bassist Peter ‘Mars’ Cowling and drummer Roy Dyke, thus establishing the power trio format that would inform nearly everything he’s done since.

A year later he brought in future Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain for the album Makin’ Magic, which featured the now classic Rock N Roll Susie. In 1978 came Putting It Straight, closely followed by Heat In The Street in 1979.

Heavy touring throughout this period gave Travers a definite edge and just how sharp he and his band had become was evident on the 1979 live release, Live! Go For What You Know.

Further studio albums were to follow, Crash and Burn and, in 1981, Radio Active. The 1984 album, Hot Shot is now considered as the last great Travers album, signalling a return to a harder rock sound.

Across this collection Pat Travers is revealed as one of the great hard rock exponents of the era and the music provides a soundtrack to one of the most purposeful periods in rock history.

PAT TRAVERS

FEELIN’ RIGHT

THE POLYDOR ALBUMS 1975-1984

9^TH MARCH 2015

UMC/UMC

YNGWIE J MALMSTEEN

and RISING FORCE

NOW YOUR SHIPS ARE BURNED

THE POLYDOR ALBUMS 1984-1990

9^TH MARCH 2015

This set brings together the Polydor albums recorded by Yngwie J Malmsteen during the period 1984 – 1990. All the tracks have been digitally remastered and the set comes complete with new artwork and liner notes by respected rock journalist, Malcolm Dome.

Lauded and acclaimed for over 30 years, Swedish guitarist Yngwie J Malmsteen is a true guitar hero. A demo he recorded in 1978, Demo Powerhouse, brought Malmsteen to the attention of Mike Varney of Shrapnel Records, who four years later, took the 18 year old prodigy to the U.S.A. After recording an album with Steeler in 1983, he went on to join former Rainbow vocalist Graham Bonnet in Alcatrazz for their album No Parole From Rock ‘N’ Roll later the same year.

In 1984 Malmsteen struck out on his own with Rising Force, a Grammy-nominated album which gave him the boost to really strike out on his own. In 1985 the next album with his band, now known as Yngwie J Malmsteen’s Rising Force, was called Marching Out and firmly established him as one of the bright lights of the era.

Next came Trilogy, which reached even higher in the U.S. charts and this was followed by Odyssey, the album that became his biggest release internationally.

The 1989 live album, Trial By Fire: Live In Leningrad was followed by the 1990 album, Eclipse.

This period comprising five studio albums and one live recording was Malmsteen’s most productive period and established his reputation as one of the genre’s most inventive and appealing guitarists.

YNGWIE J MALMSTEEN’S RISING FORCE

NOW YOUR SHIPS ARE BURNED

THE POLYDOR ALBUMS 1984-1990

9^TH MARCH 2015

UMC/UMC

Heart By Heart ~ January 10th ~ Historic Everett Theatre

Everett, Washington.

Almost everyone knows who Heart is and you probably have a favourite of one or more songs, but have you heard of Heart By Heart? January 10th Heart By Heart gave a spectacular performance at The Historic Everett Theatre in Everett, WA. 

Heart By Heart is made up of founding member of Heart and Hall of Famer Steve Fossen on bass and original member of Heart and Hall of Famer Mike Derosier on drums, also featuring Legendary guitarist and THE BEST Jimi Hendrix tribute artist Randy Hansen, Radio personality and talented musician Bob Rivers on keyboards, musical virtuoso Lizzy Daymont on guitar and vocals, and Northwest's extremely gifted vocalist Somar Macek.

The doors at The Historic Everett Theatre opened at 4:30pm to ticket holders for the NFL Seattle Seahawks and Panthers game showing on the theatre's huge stage screen. Immediately after the Seahawks won the game, Heart By Heart jumped on stage and gave us another winning show!!

Being a fan of the early songs of Heart, I was more than surprised when Heart By Heart opened their set with, "Cook With Fire!" Not only was I pleased at the choice of their opening song, but the performance was sizzling!! Staying true to the powerful vocals of Ann Wilson, Somar Macek sealed the deal for me when she began to sing! Steve Fossen described Heart By Heart as being the second generation of Heart and I would agree. At one point, I closed my eyes and felt as if I could of been at a Heart concert 40 years earlier.

When original Heart members Steve Fossen and Mike Derosier came together on the Heart By Heart project, they wanted to make sure they did it right. They definitely got it right, with Somar's captivating vocals, Lizzy's wizardry on guitar, not to mention how well Somar and Lizzy's vocals go together, Randy's alluring style and impressive guitar skills, and Bob's enchanting key work. By the time of the third song, "Magic Man" I was completely won over. Understandably, as you will never hear "Magic Man" at a Heart concert as Ann Wilson has said she will not perform the song live and is the first to be chopped from the setlist. That's ok because Heart By Heart ROCKS this one!

As much as I enjoyed Heart's revised version of Dog and Butterfly in concert when I saw them last year, I yearned to hear the studio version live. Lizzy Daymont (Heart By Heart) strapped the acoustic guitar around her shoulder and began to gently strum the opening chords to, "Dog and Butterfly," the way it was done originally. Lizzy being the newest member of Heart By Heart and the key that fits perfectly in the band, really showed her skills on the acoustic guitar. She played the instrument so well that the acoustic sound traveled up front and was the focus of the song, as it should be. Everyone stood up, confirming what I was thinking, this band is BRILLIANT!

Looking up at the stage, seeing the players interact with each other and looking around at the audience smiling and dancing, I realized that the band was having just as much fun as we were! It's super cool to watch Lizzy Daymont and Randy Hansen trade off on solos and harmonize on guitars! "Love Alive" was a perfect example of how well Lizzy and Randy play together! I've been a Randy Hansen fan for a long time and I follow him around probably more than I should (wink), but Randy brings not only his gift of musical talent to Heart By Heart, he brings his charm and lively stage presence.

The 80's Heart hits weren't really my favorite music of Heart, but as Heart By Heart got into the 80's set, I found myself singing right along to Somar Macek and really diggin' it! Audience participation is always fun and when It was time to sing, "All I Wanna Do Is Make Love To You," Somar aimed the mic out to the audience and we happily sang the chorus. Speaking of love, the band put a rockin' spin on the intro to, "Who Will You Run To," with The Who's "Baba O'Riley" intro. Randy Hansen led with awesome guitar effects and Mike Derosier following with the drum part that Keith Moon would have been proud of.

In my opinion, "Mistral Wind" is one of Hearts best songs and probably not the easiest song to sing or perform, but Heart By Heart sailed through this song perfectly! "Mistral Wind" is meant to take you on a romantic journey and make you feel almost like you're dreaming. Somar with whispering vocals and Lizzy on the acoustic guitar started us on a soothing path of ocean and sky until the drums, bass, and rhythm kicked in taking us out to choppy seas. "Mistral Wind" is all about feeling and nobody can provide the feeling in this song better than Steve Fossen's prominent bassline playing along with Randy's rhythm guitar and Mike Derosiers superb drumming. This was definitely a Hall of Fame performance!!

While Ann and Nancy Wilson are moving forward in their renewed and well deserved Hall of Fame success with a new band and reworked songs, Heart By Heart is making their way around the US playing the music of Heart exactly how it was recorded many years ago and I am a total fan of that!

SETLIST:

Heart By Heart Website:

http://www.heartbyheart.com/

Review by:

Jill Maciel

West Coast Correspondent CRR.co.uk

Photos by:

Scott Banning

Chip Z'nuff releases first solo album on February 2nd

feat. Steven Adler, Robin Zander, Dale Bozzio ‏ 

On February 3, Deadline Music (imprint of Cleopatra Records) will release STRANGE TIME, the first solo album by Chip Z’nuff.  The 10-track record marks a departure from the trademark Enuff Z’nuff trip-pop sound, with heavier guitars and more psychedelic elements.  In addition to special guest appearances, the album includes a bonus 5-track EP collaboration with Steven Adler (Guns ‘n Roses).

“It’s a stoner rock record,” said Z’nuff, matter-of-factly.  “What I have with Enuff Z’nuff is special, but this is a labor of love.  I started these songs while going through every type of hard time – family, finances, relationships – and found moments of clarity while writing.”  He also called on some tour buddies and long-time friends to guest on the record. 

Having played bass for both Dale Bozzio (Missing Persons) and Adler (Adler’s Appetite), Z’nuff knew they’d contribute something truly unique (Z’nuff calls Adler’s drumming “incendiary”). Home state  legend Robin Zander lends his pipes to “All Day and All of the Night.”  Geezer Butler’s son, Biff, sings on “Rockstar.”

STRANGE TIME was recorded at Chicago Recording Company in Chicago and Abbey Road Studios in London.  Brendan Jeffrey produced all tracks except “Rockstar” (produced by Johnny K) and “Strange Time” (produced by R. Rubin).  Mixing was done by Jeff Luif and engineering by Chris Shepard (Elvis Costello, Smashing Pumpkins), Johnny K (Disturbed, Plain White T’s), Rob Pozen, and Ron Lowe.  Daniel Stout mastered at Colossal Mastering.   Performers include Z’nuff (vocals, guitar, bass), Adler (drums, percussion), Biff Butler, James Morrison Jr., Steve Ramone, Sir Ashley Scott, Robin Zander, and Scott Faukes.

The EP was recorded at Chicago Recording Company and Chip Z’nuff Studios in Blue Island, IL.  Brendan Jeffrey produced, Jeff Luif mixed, and Bob Ludwig mastered.  Z’nuff and Adler performed all the music, with Bozzio on vocals and a Slash sample solo on “Tonight We Met.”

STRANGE TIME TRACK LISTING:

                                                            ~ all songs written by Chip Z’nuff except where noted ~

1. Sunshine
2. Rockstar
3. Strange Time  (written by Chip Z’nuff and Trent Reznor)
4. Dragonfly
5. Still Love Your Face (written by Chip Z’nuff and Wendel Rey)
6. F..Mary..Kill (written by Chip Z’nuff, Howard Stern, and Steve Miller)
7. Anna Nichole (written by Chip Z’nuff and Syklopps)
8. Strike Three
9. Hello To The Drugs
10. All Day And All Of The Night -  featuring Robin Zander & Steven Adler (written by Ray Davies)

BONUS EP: STEVEN ADLER & CHIP Z’NUFF

11. My Town
12. Yesterday (Another Wasted Day)
13. The Game
14. Tonight We Met (And Now We’re Going To Fuck) -  featuring Slash & Dale Bozzio
15. The Pain Is All On You (written by Chip Z’nuff, Steven Adler, Paul McCartney)

MP3 STREAM

 “Hello To The Drugs”

https://soundcloud.com/spinner-pr/hello-to-the-drugs-strange-time-chip-znuff/s-NDnAk

Enuff Z’nuff has a west coast run in February.

Feb. 19           Vamp’d           Las Vegas

Feb. 20           Whisky-a-Go Go        Los Angeles

Feb. 21           Fulton 55       Fresno

Feb. 22           The Boardwalk          Sacramento

Feb. 24           El Corazon      Seattle

Feb. 25           Tonic Lounge             Portland

Feb. 27           RockBar Theater       San Jose

Feb. 28           TBA    

STRANGE TIME will be available at record stores and online retailers including iTunes (http://tinyurl.com/n3mlwje) and Amazon (http://tinyurl.com/ohduxhy) 
on February 3.

In addition to a career in broadcasting as a go-to guest on Howard Stern’s radio show and co-host of “Mancow TV,” Chip is writing his autobiography.  It will chronicle, in part, his three decades in EZ. In 1989, Enuff Z’nuff released its self-titled debut, and the hit singles “New Thing” and “Fly High Michelle,” which earned them the first of two Gold records, huge credibility in the music video landscape, and legions of fans from the pop, rock, hippie, metal, and glam communities.  Rolling Stone, David Letterman, and Howard Stern have all been continued vocal supporters of the band.   
A new record of Enuff Z’nuff originals is planned for 2015.

Connect with the band at enuffznuff.com and facebook.com/Enuff.Znuff.Official. 

SAXON TO RE-RELEASE TWO CLASSIC COLLECTIONS AS 2015 LOOKS BE THEIR BUSIEST YET

‘The Saxon Chronicles Part 1’ DVD

&

‘Heavy Metal Thunder’ CD

Release Date 16^th March 2015

SAXON are ready to kick off 2015 with the re-release of two classic collections, each covering significant career highlights as well as offering something new in their ’15 versions.

On 16^th March 2015, Heavy Metal Thunder will make it’s market re-entry together with a brand new bonus CD Live At Bloodstock. First released in 2002, Heavy Metal Thunder features 13 bona-fide Saxon classics from the halcyon days of the early 80s, with 8 of the cuts having been re-recorded again in 2001 to offer a fresh perspective.

At the same time, fans will also once again be able to buy The Saxon Chronicles, a double-disc DVD which now also includes a bonus CD titled Rock’n’Roll Gypsies 1989 Live. Released originally in 2003, The Saxon Chronicles is a double-DVD set which features not only the band’s 2001 Wacken performance, but original song videos, interviews and exclusive on-tour documentaries.

 Heavy Metal Thunder (With Bonus Live at Bloodstock CD)

CD 1

1. Heavy Metal Thunder
2. Strong Arm of the Law
3. Power & the Glory
4. And the Bands played on
5. Crusader
6. Dallas 1PM
7. Princess of the Night
8. Wheels of Steel
9. 747 (Strangers in the Night)
10. Motorcycle Man
11. Never Surrender
12. Denim & Leather
13. Backs to the Wall

CD 2 (Bonus Disc) Live at Bloodstock 2014
 

1. Sacrifice 
2. Power and the Glory 
3. Heavy Metal Thunder 
4. Battalions of Steel 
5. Motorcycle Man 
6. And the Bands Played On 
7. To Hell and Back Again 
8. 747 (Strangers in the Night) 
9. Crusader 
10. Wheels of Steel 
11. Princess of the Night 
12. Denim and Leather

The Saxon Chronicles Part 1 DVD/CD Box Set

DVD 1 - Wacken Open Air Festival, Germany 2001

1. Motorcycle Man
2. Dogs Of War
3. Heavy Metal Thunder
4. Cut Out The Disease
5. Solid Ball Of Rock
6. Metalhead
7. The Eagle Has Landed
8. Conquistador (Drum Solo)
9. Crusader
10. Power And The Glory
11. Princess Of The Night
12. Wheels Of Steel (Guitar Solo)
13. Strong Arm Of The Law
14. 20,000 Ft.
15. Denim And Leather

Bonus:
Interview with Biff Byford

DVD 2 - Video: Saxon on Tour
Saxon Official Videos:

1. Suzie Hold On
2. Power And The Glory
3. Nightmare
4. Back On The Streets Again
5. Rockin' Again
6. (Requiem) We Will Remember
7. Unleash The Beast + Behind The Scenes
8. Killing Ground

Saxon on TV – Interviews, History, TV-Appearances:

1. And the Band Played On
2. Back on the Streets
3. Never Surrender
4. Denim And Leather
5. Wheels of Steel

Bonus CD - Rock’n’Roll Gypsies 1989 Live Audio CD

1. Power And Glory
2. And The Bands Played On
3. Rock The Nation
4. Dallas 1PM
5. Broken Heroes
6. Battle Cry
7. Rock 'N Roll Gypsies
8. Northern Lady
9. I Can't Wait Anymore
10. This Town Rocks
11. The Eagle Has Landed
12. Just Let Me Rock

      

Physical Graffiti Deluxe Edition Arrives Exactly 40 Years After Debut,

Produced And Newly Remastered By Jimmy Page,

With Previously Unreleased Companion Audio

Multiple CD, Vinyl, And Digital Formats, Including Limited Edition Super Deluxe Boxed Set, Available February 24

The Led Zeppelin reissue campaign continues in 2015, turning the spotlight on the double album Physical Graffiti. The deluxe edition of the group’s sixth studio album will arrive 40 years to the day after the original debuted on February 24, 1975. The reissues of the first five Led Zeppelin albums in 2014 found both commercial successes, with multiple titles reaching Top 10 chart status in countries around the world, as well as widespread critical acclaim, including the recent Classic Rock “Reissue Of The Year” Award.

As with the previous deluxe editions, Physical Graffiti has been newly remastered by guitarist and producer Jimmy Page and is accompanied by a disc of companion audio comprising previously unreleased music related to the original release.

Physical Graffiti will be available February 24th (February 23rd Internationally) from Atlantic/Swan Song in the following formats:

• Double CD – Remastered album packaged in a replica of the original LP jacket.
• Deluxe Edition (3CD) – Remastered album on two discs, plus a third disc of unreleased companion audio.
• Double LP – Remastered album on 180-gram vinyl, packaged in a sleeve that replicates the LP’s first pressing in exacting detail.
• Deluxe Edition Vinyl (3LP) – Remastered album and unreleased companion audio on 180-gram vinyl.
• Digital Download – Remastered album and companion audio will both be available in standard and high-definition formats.
• Super Deluxe Boxed Set – This collection includes:

o Remastered double album on CD in vinyl replica sleeve.

o Companion audio on CD in card wallet featuring new alternate cover art.

o Remastered double album on 180-gram vinyl in a sleeve replicating first pressing.

o Companion audio on 180-gram vinyl in a sleeve with new alternate cover art.

o High-definition audio download card of all content at 96kHz/24 bit.

o Hard bound, 96 page book filled with rare and previously unseen photos and memorabilia.

o High-quality print of the original album cover, the first 30,000 of which will be individually numbered.

Certified 16x platinum in the U.S., the commercial success of Physical Graffiti was equaled by its critical reception. Generally regarded as one of the greatest double albums of all time, the original 15 tracks represent a creative tour de force that explores the band’s dynamic musical range, from the driving rock of “Custard Pie” and acoustic arrangement of “Bron-Y-Aur Stomp” to the Eastern raga of “Kashmir” and funky groove of “Trampled Under Foot.”

The companion audio disc that accompanies the deluxe edition of Physical Graffiti has seven unreleased tracks, including rough mixes of “In My Time Of Dying” and “Houses Of The Holy,” as well as an early mix of “Trampled Under Foot” called “Brandy & Coke.” All the unreleased companion tracks offer fans a chance to hear well-known songs from a different perspective, including the Sunset Sound mix of “Boogie With Stu” and “Driving Through Kashmir,” a rough orchestra mix of the band’s eight minute opus “Kashmir.” Also featured is “Everybody Makes It Through,” a strikingly different early version of “In The Light” with alternate lyrics.

In 1968, John Bonham, John Paul Jones, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant formed Led Zeppelin, one of the most influential, innovative and successful groups in modern music, having sold more than 300 million albums worldwide. The band rose from the ashes of The Yardbirds, when Page brought in Plant, Bonham and Jones to tour as The New Yardbirds. In 1969, Led Zeppelin released its self-titled debut. It marked the beginning of a 12-year reign, during which the group was widely considered to be the biggest and most innovative rock band in the world.

Led Zeppelin continues to be honored for its pivotal role in music history. The band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1995, received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005, and a year later was awarded with the Polar Music Prize in Stockholm. Founding members Jones, Page and Plant – along with Jason Bonham, the son of John Bonham – took the stage at London’s O2 Arena in 2007 to headline a tribute concert for Ahmet Ertegun, a dear friend and Atlantic Records’ founder. The band was honored for its lifetime contribution to American culture at the Kennedy Center Honors in 2012. In January of 2014, the band won their first ever Grammy award as Celebration Day, which captured their live performance at the Ertegun tribute concert, was named Best Rock Album.

Physical Graffiti

Track Listing

Disc One

1.  “Custard Pie”

2.  “The Rover”

3.  “In My Time Of Dying”

4.  “Houses Of The Holy”

5.  “Trampled Under Foot”

6.  “Kashmir”

Disc Two

1.  “In The Light”

2.  “Bron-Yr-Aur”

3.  “Down By The Seaside”

4.  “Ten Years Gone”

5.  “Night Flight”

6.  “The Wanton Song”

7.  “Boogie With Stu”

8.  “Black Country Woman”

9.  “Sick Again”

Companion Audio Disc

1.  “Brandy & Coke” (Trampled Under Foot - Initial Rough Mix)

2.  “Sick Again” (Early Version)

3.  “In My Time Of Dying” (Initial Rough Mix)

4.  “Houses Of The Holy” (Rough Mix With Overdubs)

5.  “Everybody Makes It Through” (In The Light Early Version/In Transit)

6.  “Boogie With Stu”  (Sunset Sound Mix)

7.  “Driving Through Kashmir” (Kashmir Rough Orchestra Mix)

SOTO

“Inside The Vertigo” released 2 Feb 2015

Jeff Scott Soto, one of today's premier Rock frontmen and vocalists, and a union of hotshot young musicians bring you a slamming blend of melody and muscle in some of the freshest power metal to surface in years present. Together they are SOTO, and their debut album “Inside The Vertigo” will blow your mind away. The album is going to be released 2 February, 2015 on earMUSIC.  A neurotic blend of power metal, prog, groove-laden huge guitars, hooks and production, SOTO is a contender in today's modern Rock arena while capturing the essence of strong songwriting simultaneously.  Jeff explains, ''I've been in the game for a long time but my roots started more on the heavier side of the tracks, I thought it was about time I came home to visit the family and stick around for a while!''.

The band is comprised of Jeff's most current solo band, who he insisted on making this musical merge with him. Jorge Salan (lead guitar), BJ (keys, guitars), David Z (bass) and Edu Cominato (drums). Soto adds, ''These guys come from different parts of the world and bring their own influence to make this band very special. From the US to Europe to South America, we have an exciting mix of style and prestige that keeps us all on our toes''.

Jeff adds, ''The past 5 or more years have propelled me a plethora of anger and frustration, I'm actually quite pissed off about a lot of things, SOTO is my outlet to release some of this pent up emotion. We realize there are a lot of folks young and old who may be sharing these thoughts so this is especially for them too. We're not reinventing the wheel here, we're just creating an outlet for where our hearts are both musically and mentally…I’m just not in a 'touch your golden hair' mood right now!''.  Songs like “Break”, “The Fall”, “Wrath”, “Narcissistically Yours” and “Final Say” are perfect vehicles of raw emotion. Songs like “When I'm Older”, “Karma’s Kiss”, to the title track “Inside The Vertigo” and the 9+ minute epic “End Of Days” advocate a modern day reality/wake-up call.

Produced by Jeff Scott Soto, the album features tracks co-written with his bandmates as well as a of his famous friends/colleagues. Collaborators include guitarists Gus G (Firewind, Ozzy), Jason Bieler (Saigon Kick), Mike Orlando (Adrenaline Mob) and Joel Hoekstra (Night Ranger/TSO), all of whom perform on their penned tracks for the album. Others appearing as guests/co-writers are Casey Grillo (Kamelot), Connor Engstrom, Tony Dickinson, Leo Mancini, Hugo Mariutti and Gary Schutt.

The album was recorded during the latter months of 2013 and mixed/mastered in Boston by Soto's long time engineer and friend John Ellis. ''Everyone from John to my amazing co-writers to some of my bandmates, especially Edu who was extremely instrumental on helping me stay on course musically, get overall credit for creating this album. I oversaw it as a whole knowing the vision I wanted to capture but I truly had a lot of help from my bros that appear on this masterpiece!'' exclaims Soto.

The release of the album intentionally coincides with the birth date of JSS’s fallen colleague and dear friend Marcel Jacob of Talisman. RIP.  Watch out for SOTO to follow up the release of “Inside The Vertigo” with extensive touring and appearances throughout 2015.