Music Review_Tim Russ_Lifeline

Classic Rock Radio (Dot CO Dot UK)
13 June 2015
ClassicRockRadio.co.uk NEW Music Reviews

Spotlight: Tim Russ - Lifeline (2015)

Tim Russ - Lifeline (2015)

I had several reasons for buying Tim's newest CD titled Lifeline off CD Baby Dot Com. This is my second Tim Russ CD, as I purchased his self titled release for GNP Crescendo Records at a Xena / Star Trek Convention back in the year 2000. 

Jump ahead fifteen years and I find out Mr. Russ is not only appearing at the next Space City Comic Con, held in Houston Texas next month, but he's doing a musical set there as well. Being a journalist for a classic rock station, I decide I would like to cover this special event. Traded emails with a super helpful guy named George. Results, I'll see you there.

On a side note, if just into Star Trek, the spin-off Tim was associated with most, Star Trek Voyager, is having a twentieth anniversary reunion at the Space City Comic Con this coming July (24th - 26th) with many of the cast members being there. I don't play favorites. Star Trek Voyager contained so many good stories, and in my opinion, was an excellent science fiction television series. Attending the reunion, and joining first hand in the festivities should be fun!

Back to Mr. Russ and his music career. One man who I wish could attend Tim's performance along with me would be a fellow writer at ClassicRockRadio.co.uk, named Derek. Cool dude, and seriously into Mr. Russ' music. Told me he digs Tim's guitar playing style. Says a lot, because Derek listens to the best.

Before the acting, Tim was a professional musician. He's been at this for over four decades now. Being either in front of the camera, or directing, work of this type takes up a lot of Tim's time. Even so, he still manages to get out and play music, whenever he can, such as at the UP & COMING Space City Comic Convention. My friend Mr. Watts, lives in England. If Derek could attend and help me cover it for the station, I know he would in a heartbeat. A lot of miles between the U.K. and Houston Texas USA. So I decided to jump in so Derek (and our readers) could experience it vicariously through me. Believe me, no one's breaking my arm. My pleasure! Lots of things going on at the Space City Comic Convention this time around. Plenty for a correspondent like me to write about.

Part of being a credible writer is doing research. I read Tim had a new CD out called Lifeline and figured he might perform a song or more off it at Space City Comic Con (July 24_July 26). Found it and ordered the actual factory pressed product via CD Baby Dot Com, so I'd be familiar with the material. Within a few days, it was in my mailbox. Been playing the disc in the car and house every day since, appreciating it more and more with every listen. Of course, there are reasons for that. So without further ado, my thoughts on Tim Russ - Lifeline (2015)

If getting into Tim's music for the first time, be aware that song wise he's into the lyrics as much as the man is into the actual music. The title track, and the one that starts off the CD called Lifeline, illustrate that through and through. One of two songs written by Tim Russ on this new studio offering. Lyrics are strong, and the music that accompanies it, fits like a glove. Displays excellent song writing skills. The tune itself stays in your head, long after you're done playing it aloud. Problem with starting off an album with such a tight number, is that it's possible to let down the listener if the rest of the material on the album isn't equally as good and exciting. Am happy to report that's NOT the case here.

The next ten tracks are songs written by a variety of others, that Tim interpreted his own way. More upbeat than not. Some rhythm n' blues, mixed in with other styles that keep the listener engaged. Musical compositions that one could know already. Songs by Joe Bonamassa, Bruce Hornsby, Bo Bice, or Jamie N Common.

A very special track is saved for last called Doom Doom Diggity. Mean ass guitar work with spoken words that certainly catch your attention, as well as make one laugh out loud. Based on a real human being? I'll have to ask Mr. Russ that myself the next time opportunity arises. The wife and I have been playing this track lately on the ride up to the gym. Really helps get our heads zoned in on what we're about to try and accomplish. Written by Mr. Russ, and as infectious as the title track, Lifeline, that he also penned. Red Alert … BOTH tracks qualify as songs that stick in your mind, long after that last note plays out. At the station we call it ear-worm material.

Rating

Using the five star rating system, whereas one star means it's horrible, to five stars meaning it's terrific, Uncle G rates Tim Russ - Lifeline … 5 stars! Fact is the whole album is done really well.

For those wondering, Tim's singing voice is strong, and what I find to be a tad earthy, which really magnifies lyrics and help define their meaning. Has a great delivery, in which voice and instrumentation combine for one unique listening experience.

I really like the choice of songs that Tim covers. I had fun researching and finding out where each song originated. Surprised me with the Jamie N Commons tune, 'Lead Me Home'. Fans of the television series The Walking Dead should know this one. Speaking of those into television, if into American Idol then you might dig Tim's version of Bo Bice's, 'Witness'. The first song (track six) on the CD that I gave a repeated play on the first listen.

The musicians who accompany Mr. Russ SMOKE! Ladies and Gentleman, the Tim Russ Crew: Jack Conely who plays a mean-ass harmonica, and drummer / percussionist, Jim Martin, whose drum work demands paying attention to. The keyboard work of Bill Burchell is outstanding! As is the saxophone playing of Daniel Mancuso. And I can't forget the ladies, Diana Perkins (percussion / vocals) and on background vocals, Maria Madero, Adelina Madero, and Diana Perkins. Everyone does a brilliant job, and that's behind the scenes as well. The physical CD sounds just awesome in my home and car stereo.

And there you have it. A recommended buy that would be a welcome addition to any general music lover's collection.

Link to Purchase; CD Baby - Tim Russ Page

https://www.cdbaby.com/artist/timruss

Space City Comic Convention (July 24-July 26) in Houston Texas USA

http://spacecitycomiccon.com/

Gary Brown
American Correspondent for ClassicRockRadio.co.uk
Twitter @GBrown0816

Former Angel Frontman Frank Dimino Releases Solo Album "Old Habits Die Hard on July 3rd

Best known for being the front-man of legendary US Hard Rock band ANGEL, Frank Dimino is now leading his own solo project and debuts with a fine Melodic Hard Rock album aptly titled “Old Habits Die Hard”.

ANGEL is a band that was discovered (similarly to VAN HALEN) by KISS bass player Gene Simmons, who got them signed to Casablanca Records. With that label ANGEL released 5 critically acclaimed studio and one live album in the second half of the 70’s. After the band’s demise, Dimino went on to work with UFO’s Paul Raymond and worked as singer for Soundtracks, scoring a Platinum album for the inclusion of his Cycle V song “Seduce Me Tonight” on the “Flashdance” soundtrack.

While Frank is undoubtedly the brainchild of DIMINO, the new album sees him collaborate with some heavyweights of the Vegas music scene, which is where he currently resides. Under the production of Paul Crook (MEAT LOAF), DIMINO sees the participation – among others - of Oz Fox (STRYPER), Eddie Ojeda (TWISTED SISTER), Rickey Medlocke (BLACKFOOT, LYNYRD SKYNYRD), Jeff Labansky, and former ANGEL bandmates  Punky Meadows (on guitar) and Barry Brandt (co-writing with Frank the song” Even Now”).

“Old Habits Die Hard” is going to take many by surprise as this is not a nostalgia fest, but a really compelling and inspired Hard Rock release. Frank Dimino is back and here to stay. Look out for DIMINO live shows soon in a city near you!

-

Frank DiMino: Lead Vocals

Justin Avery: Organ, Background Vocals

John Miceli: Drums

Oz Fox / Paul Crook / Jeff Labansky / Punky Meadows / Jeff Duncan / Eddie Ojeda / Dylan DiMino / Rickey Medlocke: Guitars

Danny Miranda / Paul Crook: Bass

Yes 

Like It Is: At The Mesa Arts Center: 

Released July 3rd

On Tuesday August 12th 2014, YES jumped on stage at the Ikeda Theater in Mesa, AZ performing some of their most well-known and influential releases ever. Reflected in this new retrospective live chapter and perfect companion of ‘Like it Is – Yes at the Bristol Hippodrome’, this new live audio visual album offers two of their classic albums in their entirety, all in one concert: 1971’s FRAGILE, and 1972’s CLOSE TO THE EDGE.

Music audiences across the world experienced the albums – each representing an important milestone in YES’ career which encompasses sales of close to 50 million albums worldwide – performed from beginning to end.

In a career that has so far spanned more than four decades, ‘Like it Is – Yes at the Mesa Arts Center’ sees YES continuing with its tradition of symphonic progressive rock that remains timelessly fresh and innovative.

YES

Jon Davison - vocals

Steve Howe - guitars

Alan White – drums 

Chris Squire - bass

Geoff Downes - keyboards

Uncle G After Hours Fun Movie Review_Bad Asses On The Bayou

Classic Rock Radio (Dot CO Dot UK)
10 June 2015

              ClassicRockRadio.co.uk PRESENTS
                 Uncle G's After Hours Fun Movie Reviews
                 Bad Asses On The Bayou (2015)

From writer / director Craig Moss comes the third installment, the first two in which I didn't see, of the Bad Ass film franchise. What started it all, a 2012 film entitled 'Bad Ass' staring actor Danny Trejo. The sequel called, Bad Asses, was released last year. One of those straight to DVD movies. Think positive. Both hugely popular on Netflix. New to me until I stopped to check out what the Redbox rental machine had to offer. Title caught my eye; Bad Asses In The Bayou. Starred Danny Trejo, John Amos (TV's Good Times), Danny Glover, and comedian Loni Love. She was born in Houston, Texas, and one I found out about a few years back by watching the now defunct chat show, Chelsea Lately, on the cable channel E! Loni is one funny lady! And now I know after viewing Bad Asses On The Bayou, quite the actress as well.

The newest offering from the Bad Ass franchise starts off with the main characters Frank Vaga (Danny Trejo) and Bernie Pope (Danny Glover) being invited, all expenses paid, to Baton Rouge Louisiana for a wedding. Again, what happened in the previous two films at least to me, really didn't matter. The setup was immediately there for this action comedy. So, no need thinking this can't be watched without seeing the first, and the second part, for I'm happy to report, that's not the case. Also, this morning, after having watched the film the previous night, I made it a promise to myself to catch the titles Bad Ass (2012), and Bad Asses (2014) as soon as I can. Seriously, after enjoying this latest installment as much as I did, it's a given I'll check out the previous two.

Many good things about this film. First off is the cast. From the stars to the extras, all did wonderfully. Was cool seeing Danny Trejo play a part that seemed to have more dimension than the roles I usually see him in. His comedic timing is perfect, something I never realized. And it feels so good watching him beat the crap out of characters that have it coming to them. Something that if I tried, would land my ass in jail or the hospital. And then sued and having all my shit taken away in a court of law. Back to Mr. Trejo, I have yet to see a movie he was in, that I didn't enjoy. Bad Asses On The Bayou is yet another to add to the long list.

Now keep in mind, the general premise is that Danny, and his best friend Bernie, played superbly by Danny Glover, are old. A lot of the jokes are going to revolve around that. Even older in the cast than these two, and in real life also, is actor John Amos. I have always liked this man. Such a believable actor. So sad when his character was killed on TV's Good Times. Fired is how Mr. Amos nowadays describes it. The half hour sitcom just wasn't the same with him gone. The roles, John Amos have played since, all worth checking out.

Once in Baton Rouge, all eyes are on Loni Love. Her characters getting married to this bright, young and unfortunately as nice as he is, wheelchair bound man. But it's her Daddy (John Amos) being filthy rich, that ends up being the root of the real problem. Here come the bad guys. Kidnapping and demanding a ransom be paid. What follows is a highly entertaining story, flawlessly filmed, and without any weak moments to bog it down. Contains a well mix of comedic and action moments that should keep the average viewer happy.

When I read the writer was also the director in the opening credits, my first thought wasn't good. Writers write dialogue, and too much of it makes for a boring motion picture. Can happen when a writer is also the director. Not here! So much so, I'm now a Craig Moss fan. Dude is obviously schooled and knows his shit. Still early in his career too. Future should be bright.

Rating

Using the IMDb website one to ten star rating system, whereas one star means it sucks through a very long straw, to ten stars meaning it's worth spending your hard earned cash on, Uncle G rates Bad Asses On The Bayou … TEN STARS! Fact is I really liked this movie. Am sure the film snobs could pick it apart, finding one or even more things wrong with it. Screw them! More fun watching the movie than it is dissecting it. Was a good at home DVD experience. Took my mind off paying the rent, and having to do yard work the following morning.

The whole purpose of spending valuable breathing time, sitting in front of a screen to begin with and not directly participate in life at that given moment, is to either educate oneself, or to relax, and chill out. Renting 'Bad Asses On The Bayou' helped me do just that. More the later. Not that I really learned anything. Mostly I just sat in front of the widescreen with a big smile on my face.

Gary Brown
American Correspondent for ClassicRockRadio.co.uk
Twitter @GBrown0816

Background on the Author: Gary lives in Katy Texas USA with his wife of twenty years. They have a pet African Grey Parrot name Bella. 

New Music Review_Exovex_Radio Silence

Classic Rock Radio (Dot CO Dot UK)
06 June 2015
ClassicRockRadio.co.uk NEW Music Review
Spotlight: Exovex - Radio Silence (2015)

                                    Exovex - Radio Silence (2015)

Everyday I open my snail mailbox, I never know what I'm going to find. Eliminated bills by going paperless, so that cut down on the volume delivered, a little. Now the metal containers contents range from the typical junk mail, that we're told pays the letter carriers salary so to please tolerate, to correspondence by those unfamiliar with email, or just not having my email address. Items I buy on the Internet arrive on time and unharmed, thanks in part to the Katy, Texas Postal Service doing an excellent job, and then I get total surprises. Could be items from friends, or family. And then last but not least, comes the small boxes and bubble pack envelopes that have music CDs, or DVDs in them. Some I ordered, and some I didn't have a clue was coming. I think of these as; GIFTS FROM STRANGERS. Those who play along know that if inspired, that I might use their product as something to write about, and thusly tell the world via the world wide web, my hopefully positive opinion of their newest project. Musicwise it could be a musician, or a band that I already know, or a player(s) that I'm entirely unfamiliar with. It happens. In the case of Exovex, I was completely unaware of its existence, up to the time I opened the package it arrived in. Also, the name, Dale Simmons, who is the principal musician in Exovex, didn't ring any bells. What else to do but put the new CD in my Phillips CD player, and press the play button.

As a writer, one will develop a reputation. Those who read my columns on a regular basis know that when it comes to rock, I may prefer hard rock to soft, but I'm a Prog-Head through and through. Stimulates my mind more than, say a three cord, three minute, straight forward rock n' roll song would. Then again make it upbeat, and possibly I'll dig that as well.

Fact is Prog-Rock is special to me, be it old school (Yes, Pink Floyd, or Genesis .. just to name a few), or today's Modern-Prog sound. I certainly don't confess to enjoying it all. Besides liking something, the flip side would be whatever I hear bores me to tears. Acoustic guitar and voice is hit and miss as far as I'm concerned. Or to my ears, the vocal performance could just out and out suck. Sound out of place. Sometimes I'll tolerate or even come to enjoy what I consider questionable vocals, if I like the other musicians the vocal performance is associated with. Other times not, with strike one, meaning you're out. If I can't make it past two plays, I can't review it. Apologies ahead of time.

Part of writing is the research. The most important question to me after committing to writing about my experiences listening to Exovex - Radio Silence was; Who is Dale Simmons? Answer is; a professional singer, lyricist, songwriter, guitarist (acoustic, electric, and bass), piano / keyboard player. And besides doing his own thing, was a front man for several bands from the early nineties. Experience to me is a good thing. Dale digs progressive art rock, jazz and funk. He's also a self proclaimed coffee addict. A little more research and I could tell you his shoe size. Either here nor there.

Joining Dale Simmons in which he performed and produced all six songs that make up Radio Silence is members of Porcupine Tree, Nine Inch Nails, Devo, Sting & Steely Dan! Featuring Josh Freese (Nine In Nails, A Perfect Circle, and Devo) and Keith Carlock (Sting, John Meyer, and Steely Dan) on drums. The album also showcases two members of Porcupine Tree, Gavin Harrison on drums and Richard Barbieri on keyboards and synthesizers.

If a first timer reading my work, within what is considered the prog-rock realm is, the concept album. Tells a story. Radio Silence tells one of a man who just wants to be alone. For every action a reaction as the man finds out isolation isn't as fulfilling as he has thought it would be. Official promo for the album states: “The central theme of the album focuses on the downward spiral and ultimate demise of a man due to the psychological and physical effects of a long term, self-imposed isolation." I conclude, lyrics are brain candy for those once focused. Dale's vocals ranging from mild to wild.

Musically I hear sounds at times that remind me of prog-music past; David Gilmore late 70's and forward playing style, and Circa:, a superb modern prog rock band with Billy Sherwood, and among others, original keyboard player for Yes, Tony Kaye. More so comparing vocal sound and style in which is delivered. I also hear 90's prog-rock group Porcupine Tree somewhat, with their being a good reason as to why. Two musicians from that band make guest appearances on Exovex - Radio Silence; drummer Gavin Harrison, and keyboardist Richard Barbieri. Fit very nicely to what Dale got going on. Each performing on a different number. Other notable players join in, drummers Keith Carlock, and Josh Freese. Credits also include Nicole Neely, adding textures of cello, viola, and violin. If keeping score at home, we have Dale in three positions (all vocals, all guitar work, and all piano / keyboard work except for the one song in which Richard Barbieri kicks ass), Vs a drummer and string position. Nice touch by the way. Wait...Tim designed the CD cover. Bonus point for the win! Ends up being what you hear coming out of the speakers, is three quarters all one guy. Very impressive! 

Rating:

Using the one to five star rating system, whereas one star means it's not worth investing time nor money in, to five stars which means it's not only cool to dive in head first and submerge yourself, but also spend your hard earned money on, Uncle G gives Exovex - Radio Silence …5 stars! Spacy prog to seriously rocking out, this album has it all. I would say buy it just to hear Dale Simmons play. He spent years perfecting himself musically. The guitar work on Radio Silence jumps out of my three foot speakers, and takes command of all inside the house. Dale's piano / keyboard work is just as good. All other musicians contributions are top notch. On headphones, Radio Silence sounds crisp, and alive. A tip of the hat to those behind the scenes. Oh, and I also like the use of voice and sound effects, especially on a concept piece of work. Adds dimension, and believability if done right. Just perfect here! The more repeat listens, the more this brilliant debut album on the whole, will be appreciated. My experience exactly!

Gary Brown
American Correspondent for ClassicRockRadio.co.uk
Twitter @GBrown0816

For additional information, please check out Dale's official website @ http://www.dalesimmons.com/

Uncle G_After Hours Fun Movie Reviews_ Road Wars

02 June 2015

          Classic Rock Radio (Dot CO Dot UK) PRESENTS

                            Uncle G's After Hours FUN Movie Reviews

                                   Road Wars (2015 The Asylum)                          

Just last month The Asylum released a new direct to DVD flick called, Road Wars. Around the same time as the new Mad Max movie hit theaters across the country. Yes, this is the same B movie studio out of Hollywood, California that makes movies similar to what you might find around that time at your local movie theater. Called, The Asylum. I mentioned them before in my reviews / columns. Been following the studio the last few years.

On the back cover of the Road Wars DVD it reads; "An action-packed Apocalyptic classic in the vein of Mad Max and Death Race." Since I NEVER saw a Mad Max movie, I'm going to have to take their word for it. I do own on DVD the original Death Race 2000, produced in part by the legendary Roger Corman, and rented (Redbox) the remake that came out in 2008, along with it's two sequels. Overall, cool action movies. Of course I am familiar with the Mad Max franchise. Since I dig futuristic science fiction tales, I know I'd appreciate it's stories. Just never managed to sit down and check them out. So in a way, a plus to watching The Asylum's Road Wars, because I only kind of know what to expect. My experience viewing clips from Mad Max either come from movie trailers, or the 1985 Tina Turner video (We Don't Need Another Hero 'Thunderdome') from Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome. BTW … Tina ROCKS! 

So I asked a friend after viewing The Asylum's Road Wars. I said; "Friend, did Mad Max have vampires or zombies in it?". After some uncontrolled laughter, the response I got was; "No!" Something else I was told was that only the second Mad Max movie is really worth watching, and that the other Mel Gibson flicks are; "Shit". Said very matter of fact by a guy who seems to know his B movie Apocalyptic movies. The comment itself is either here nor there, but I find it worth mentioning. Possible advice for future me so not to waste precious breathing time on a pointless activity.

Road Wars (2015 The Asylum)

Cutting to the chase, what we have here is a good story, with a twist. Entertaining I imagine for even those more up on the Mad Max movies than I am. The vampires are a variation one would definitely not want to encounter. Contains strong female characters. The in front of the camera talent all excel in their roles. Reading the credits for Road Wars on the IMDb website, I recognize behind the scene names associated with other productions from The Asylum, like those who worked on any of the Sharknado films. The latest, Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No! to be released this Summer. The Asylum knows what they're doing. Not one production they have even done, has never not profited. Close minded film goers who worship Sean Penn will proclaim to the World a film such as Road Wars to be a rip off, and therefor not worth one's time, and money. Uncle G says; "Bullshit!". I'd suggest these folks pull the stick out of their rectum, and loosen up some. Like it or not, there is a market for these types of motion pictures.

Road Wars, is a straightforward action yarn. Future Earth. Waters precious on a planet that's gone to shit. There's your story. Good thing fuel for bad-ass vehicles appear to be plentiful. No paying at the pump. Take what you need. Be always careful for Night Walkers, and Day Walkers could be lurking about. Game's over once bitten by them. If comparing itself to 'Death Race' movies, then it's more old school. Lots of drama. Enough going on to keep one's interest.

Rating: Using the same one to ten star rating system as the IMDb website uses, whereas one star means it SUCKS HORRIBLY, to ten stars meaning it's INCREDIBLY AWESOME, Uncle G gives The Asylum's latest direct to DVD releases, Road Wars, EIGHT SOLID STARS! For those into indy B movies like I am, add another star if you want. It's exactly what I expected when I picked it up for 10 bucks at the local Walmart. I already know that usually The Asylum puts out a solid product. Cool cover wrap. Includes bonus features such as deleted scenes, or a gag reel. Trailers for other Asylum projects. I feel like I'm getting my monies worth. For the wife and I to go see the latest Mad Max film, would cost me at least three times more than what I paid for this DVD. Upside, no driving back and forth to a movie theater, and the bag of popcorn I ate while viewing the film, didn't cost some outrageous amount of cash. Hooray for Orville Redenbacher! Classic Butter & Sea Salt is to die for! 

Official Website of The Asylum 

http://www.theasylum.cc/

Official Orville Redenbacher Website

http://www.orville.com/

Gary Brown
American Correspondent for ClassicRockRadio.co.uk
Twitter @GBrown0816

Jean Beauvoir and Micki Free
New Album
American Trash

Tracklisting: 

Angels Cry; Morning After; American Trash; Whiplash; Just Breathe; Shotgun To The Heart; Never Give Up; Cold Dark December; It's Never Too Late; She's A Ko; There's No Starting Over.

Best known as the driving force behind the legendary Crown of Thorns self-titled debut album in 1994, Jean Beauvoir and Micki Free’s collective credits read like a “who’s-who” Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, with a list of collaborations that includes the likes of the Ramones, KISS, Debbie Harry, The Pretenders, John Waite, Lionel Richie, N'Sync, Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, Bill Wyman, Carlos Santana and Prince to name but a few.

The duo both coincidentally moved back to LA in 2003 and re-connected. They discussed joining forces again for a new project and after a few shows in Europe in 2013, a deal with Frontiers was inked for a brand new album to be recorded in 2014.

The result is “American Trash”, an album that shaped up as “the continuation of the BEAUVOIR FREE sound as the writing team for the Crown of Thorns debut,” explains Jean Beauvoir. “When we write together there really is this magic. We know we want killer guitar riffs and major melodic chorus... and this is what turns out in our songs, in Beauvoir Free style.”

All the new songs came out like "rocking-babies" in the BEAUVOIR FREE fold. “…And all represent the sound only Jean and I create together. The "inimitable" sound of BEAUVOIR FREE,” tells Micki Free.

Joining forces once again, Jean and Micki can truly unleash the magic that they can only create when they write together, of that there is no doubt!

“We both feel this CD is some of the best work we have done, right up their next to the Crown of Thorns debut” concludes Jean. “We want to get out on the road and bring it to the fans. We receive a lot of enquires of when are you guys coming back out on tour and people telling us they can't wait to hear the new material. Frankly we can’t wait for our fans to hear American Trash as well!”

BEAUVOIR FREE

Jean Beauvoir: Lead and background Vocals, Bass, Guitars, Keyboards, Drums

Micki Free: Lead Guitars, Rhythm And Acoustic Guitars