BURNING RAIN, a hard rock band founded by guitarist extraordinaire Doug Aldrich (Revolution Saints, The Dead Daisies, ex-Whitesnake, Dio) and vocalist Keith St John (ex-Montrose, Kingdom Come), announce the release of their fourth studio album, "Face the Music" on March 22, 2019.
In conjunction with the album announcement, the band have shared the latest single, “Midnight Train,” along with an accompanying music video. When asked why the band chose to release “Midnight Train” as the first single, Aldrich explained, “when we were asked what song encompasses the sound of BURNING RAIN, ‘Midnight Train’ seemed like a good choice. It sounds fresh and heavy, but still sounds like us. Everyone will have different ideas about favorite songs and there are a number of tracks that could have been first, but we just went with ‘Midnight Train.”
“’Midnight Train's' message, albeit fully ensconced in carnality, is about wanting something so brutally bad when you can't have it,” added St. John. “The main character here is basically a deeply tortured soul during all the daytime hours. The phallic likening to the train and its track along with the blackness, the bed of nails, and the cravings of the night are meant to further fortify the extremity of sexual addiction. Doug had all the basic music together including bass, drums, and all when he first played me a demo of the riff. I loved it immediately. The first ex-perimental vocal track I scatted out had the basic framework for the chorus, which we both felt had good potential, but the original verse began with a higher, bluesier part that seemed to not quite fit. After I fashioned a new verse with a lower, more growly approach, we both felt it really complimented the chorus and we knew this track was in good standing!”
BURNING RAIN was established in 1998 by guitarist Doug Aldrich and vocalist Keith St. John. After meeting through mutual friends, Aldrich and St. John commenced work on what would eventually become their self-titled debut album. The 1999 record established BURNING RAIN as a hungry yet seasoned group of musicians. Although the album was limited in its release, it did receive rave reviews from fans and critics alike for their take on heavy, blues-y hard rock. The following year, BURNING RAIN released the follow up, “Pleasure To Burn” which showed a matured Aldrich-St John collaboration that gained even higher praise than the first album.
In 2001, Aldrich joined DIO and later departed in 2003 as he was approached by David Coverdale to join a newly reformed Whitesnake, while St. John joined forces with guitar legend Ronnie Montrose. While still in Whitesnake, Aldrich started working on new BURNING RAIN music, which saw the light of day in 2013 as the album “Epic Obsession”. Their third release was again met with enthu-siams from fans and critics alike. Aldrich would later leave Whitesnake and join The Dead Daisies and Revolution Saints, which left BURNING RAIN on an extended hiatus.
Now, finally a new album is ready for release! Face the Music is a blues driven hard rock record which is truly a tour-de-force. With a renewed lineup featuring the amazing Blas Elias (SLAUGHTER) on drums and bassist Brad Lang (Y&T), the album evokes the sound of the classic 70’s hard rock scene, but also stays true to the Burning Rain sound.
One thing is for certain, BURNING RAIN has made the wait for new music well worth it.
::: MIKAEL ERLANDSSON releases his 6th solo album “Capricorn Six” via AOR Heaven in Europe on February 22 :::
Mikael Erlandsson is back with his 6th solo album “Capricorn Six”. The Swedish singer is a true Aor/melodic rock legend that with his amazing voice which has been one of the best in this genre for more than 25 years.
Erlandsson had success in Sweden already in 1990 when he was the frontman in the band N´Gang where he had several hits incl. a Swedish song in the Eurovision Song Contest. The breakthrough in the Rock scene happened in 1993 when he released his first solo album. The album topped that year’s best of melodic rock charts and had an impact all over the world - but especially in Japan. Later on, 4 more solo albums saw the light of day and Erlandsson guested as singer on albums with Phenomena, Radioactive, Salute, Love Under Cover amongst others. During the last fifteen years Mikael also led his own band “Last Autumns Dream” who released 15 albums and did some touring in Japan, Germany and England.
Now, Mikael Erlandsson is back with a new album filled with songs in his classic style. Musicians on the album are Sayit Dölen (guitar), Pontus Engborg (drums) and Joel Starander (bass). The record was produced by Claes Andreasson and Mikael Erlandsson (Last Autumns Dream, Heartbreak Radio) and mixed and mastered by Martin Kronlund (guest guitar themes on ”Eye of the hurricane” , ”Break another heart” & ”I just wanna love you”.
Tracklist: 1. Eye Of The Hurricane, 2. Why, 3. Pain, 4. Evil, 5. Had To Let You Go, 6. Break Another Heart, 7. Fear The People, 8. Ok, 9. I Just Wanna Love Ya, 10. Alice In Wonderland
::: BLOOD RED SAINTS return with “Pulse” on February 22 :::
2019 brings the release of the third album by British rockers Blood Red Saints.
The album, released through AOR Heaven is entitled 'Pulse' on February 22 and sees the band modernising their sound whilst still retaining the big choruses. Guitarist Lee Revill is the man tasked with mixing and engineering the album as well as co-producing alongside Pete Godfrey.
“Pulse” features 11 tracks all written by Revill/Godfrey and the album has a more contemporary edge, trying to push the boundaries of Melodic Rock. Songs such as “Cross to bear” and “Crash into me”, edge into radio friendly territory whilst “I'm your Devil” has a more raw punky feel. The title track “Pulse” is all about the chant and should be a great live number, “Animals” and “Message to God” being full on rockers.
The band says: “This album is more personal, dealing with life events of the past year but still maintaining a positive stance, everybody brought their best to this recording, no compromises, no excuses, simply the best 11 songs we could write and we are proud of the results, after all, without music and fun, what is there?”
Tracklist: 1. Believer, 2. Animals, 3. Cross To Bear, 4. Invincible, 5. I’m Your Devil, 6. Crash Into Me, 7. Pulse, 8. Message To God, 9. Warrior, 10. What Have We Become, 11. Bring Me To Life
Once in a while a new epic voice comes into the world of rock and roll! Let us introduce you to BK Morrison.
Canadian singer BK Morrison has been a well kept secret from the world and only once he started posting some videos on Youtube of himself singing to various tracks in his living room did he attract the attention of Swedish guitarist, song writer and producer Tommy Denander.
The two quickly became friends and Tommy felt that this amazing voice must finally be heard to everyone so he actually wrote a whole album of great songs. BK flew over to Stockholm and recorded all vocals at the famous old EMI/Abbey Road Stockholm studio where Tommy worked.
Tommy played the album for Khalil Turk at Escape Music who really liked it and a deal was done. The plan in the future is to build a new band around BK so they chose the band name Tug Of war instead of doing a solo album. The album is solely written by Tommy Denander who plays guitars and keyboards plus also produced it together with Khalil Turk.
It features a great list of people like Chris Ousey, Bill Champlin (Chicago) and Joseph Williams (Toto) on backing vocals, Billy Orrico on drums and Brian Anthony on bass plus mix and mastering.
Get ready for a new favourite singer in the style of David Coverdale, Bob Seger, Richard Marx and Lou Gramm.
SOTO, the modern Heavy Metal / Hardrock group featuring vocalist Jeff Scott Soto (ex Yngwie Malmsteen / Talisman / Journey, Sons Of Apollo, TSO, etc.), are pleased to announce the signing of a new worldwide deal with InsideOutMusic.
Jeff Scott Soto checked in with the following comment about the signing:“I am proud to have SOTO working with the great InsideOutMusic & their partners at Century Media Records and Sony Music. Having seen what we did together with Sons Of Apollo, I am thrilled to see what we’ll do to further my own vanity band SOTO into the future. It‘s a very exciting time in our lives and career!”.
SOTO started in 2015 derived from the idea of Jeff Scott Soto wanting to return to his heavier roots. So far they released 2 albums, “Inside The Vertigo“ (2015) and “DIVAK“ (2016), taking a short break while Jeff embarked on the supergroup Sons Of Apollo, alongside Mike Portnoy, Derek Sherinian, Billy Sheehan and Bumblefoot.
Now SOTO are returning under the same umbrella as Sons Of Apollo, signing with InsideOutMusic. A new album is currently being worked on and its material will continue to expand and move the band towards new heights whilst following up with their brand of Power Rock.
SOTO – Live 2019:
17.02.2019 San Juan (Puerto Rico) – Handlebar
21.02.2019 Tampa (USA) – The Orpheum
24.-28.02.2019 Monsters Of Rock Cruise / https://monstersofrockcruise.com/
Guitar Legend Jason Becker's New Album “Triumphant Hearts” Receives Rave Reviews Worldwide!
Jason Becker is a musical phenomenon!
Guitar legend Jason Becker released his eagerly anticipated new album “Triumphant Hearts” on December 7, 2018. The album has been receiving amazing reviews around the globe!
“It feels so good that people are experiencing the music in a deep way. When I was writing the album, it was what my soul needed, and I hoped others would feel the same. To see that people are feeling my heart is the greatest gift any artist could ask for.” - Jason Becker
Watch the album's trailer:
Jason Becker's story is one of brilliance, talent, determination, adversity, and, ultimately, triumph. A child prodigy on guitar, Jason rose to prominence as a teenager when he was one half of the legendary rock guitar duo Cacophony (with his great friend Marty Friedman). After wowing audiences all over the world with his amazing guitar chops and deep compositions, Jason auditioned for-and got-the giggig with David Lee Roth, following in the huge footsteps of Eddie Van Halen and Steve Vai. He wrote and recorded the DLR album “A Little Ain’t Enough” and was poised to take over the rock guitar world when a nagging pain in his leg was diagnosed as ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s Disease, a debilitating and fatal condition with a life expectancy of maybe five years. Maybe.
That was 29 years ago.
Jason did indeed lose the ability to play guitar, walk, talk, and breathe on his own. But he never lost his will to live or his desire to create music. Communicating through a series of eye movements with a system developed by his father, Jason spells out words as well as musical notes and chords. He imparts his musical vision to his team who then can input the notes into a computer, edit the parts to his exacting standards, and then generate charts for session musicians. It is through this amazing process that Jason composes his profoundly beautiful music, rich in melody and counterpoint, brimming with emotion. His inspiring music and life story have been the subject of countless news articles, magazine cover stories, and an award-winning documentary, “Jason Becker: Not Dead Yet.”
Not only is Jason not dead yet, he's busier and more prolific than ever, as evidenced by his latest release, Triumphant Hearts. The album's 14 tracks showcase Jason's gift for melody and his deep knowledge of classical composition and orchestral arrangement. Many of the guitar parts are performed by a who's-who of 6-string gods including Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Neal Schon, Steve Morse, Paul Gilbert, Joe Bonamassa, and many others. And, in what will absolutely delight his fans, Jason's amazing guitar playing-recorded in the '80s and '90s-gracesces several tunes.
Jason Becker is unquestionably the sexiest man alive, but he's also the most positive, upbeat, and inspiring man alive. “I really feel lucky,” says Jason. “I am surrounded by loving people, and I can still make music.”
Here's what the press have raved about Jason Becker's “Triumphant Hearts”:
“Jason Becker is Beethoven for the 21st Century. Listen to how he composes each song. Each delicate note has purpose. Every instrument ebbs and flows throughout each piece. Each guitar lick enriches the depths of each intricate movement. It makes sense that this isn’t a rock album. It’s a classical album. One I hope that will be around long after I’m gone.”
“This is an album I never thought would happen, a brand new album by guitar maestro Jason Becker. 'Triumphant Hearts' is exactly what it says on the tin. Triumphant. It's an album full of stunning music composed by a genius musician who has to score the opus note by note. This is quite simply a magnificent record that spews emotion.”
“If there is one thing that gets high marks for originality, it is a musical genius, a prisoner of his own body, writing a love letter to the world using only his eyes, and the love and support of his family, fans, and friends. The album really has something for everyone, with exceptionally beautiful composition, heart, soul, and even some good old burning it up on the fingerboard. he has given the world a masterpiece and a message of love and triumph.”
“It shows Jason Becker as the talented guitarist of his youth, but also a composer of exceptionally high standards. A picture may paint a thousand words, but music says things that words never can and 'Triumphant Hearts' manages to say it all. It's humbling, emotional, inspirational and filled with the brilliance of Jason Becker.”
“'Triumphant Hearts' by Jason Becker is a testament to the unyielding spirit of an artist driven to create. No matter what the challenge or hardship, a true artist's life force is ignited and fueled by their work. You cannot help but be inspired by these compositions and admire the composer for the sheer joy he brings to us through them.”
“'Triumphant Hearts' makes a joyous statement about Becker's enduring creativity in the face of incredible adversity and the fact he is still a major catalyst to his contemporaries. You will be rewarded by an album that taps into one of the most remarkable musical spirits of the modern rock era.”
“Years in the making, yet well worth the wait. This album is an audible journey through the brain of one of Rock's finest ambassadors conveyed by those who loved him and the few who are capable of translating such majesty into recorded music. Showcase his compositional skills through mesmerising arrangements and gorgeous atmospheric storytelling.”
“Jason Becker will always and everywhere continue to influence guitarists and musicians around the world. His personal story will be an inspiration for millions of people.”
“Guitar fans get ready for one amazing onslaught of guitar magic on 'Triumphant Hearts.' 'Triumphant Hearts' is an amazing event that every music fan needs to hear. The man and his music will make an impression on you one way or another, I can promise you that.”
“The album's 14 tracks showcase Jason's gift for melody and his deep knowledge of classical composition and orchestral arrangement. Jason has assembled some of the great guitarists of our genre on 'Triumphant Hearts.'”
“Jason Becker, in addition to delivering a sublime album, gives us a great lesson in life, confronting adversity and surpassing oneself. Bravo the artist.”
“A true masterpiece that has to be one of the best albums I've heard all year. buy it because it's one of the best albums you’ll hear all year. I’d be happy to listen to on repeat for hours on end.”
“A record that should be accepted as one of the most extraordinary declarations of love for music and life ever written. 'Triumphant Hearts' is a moving, vibrant, beautiful, excruciating work.”
“Some of the most genius material I've ever had the pleasure of listening to. This, ladies and gentlemen, is what a masterpiece sounds like. A true work of art. An overwhelming inspiration.”
As most of you know, Danny lost his mom a few days ago. We’ve had many conversations this week, and he’s in as good a place as one could be during such a sad time. This morning, I asked him if he would like to postpone the following announcement to respect her passing, but he quickly replied that his mom loved nothing more than seeing her son share his voice and music with the world, and to by all means announce such happy news. So, with his blessing, here goes……
TYKETTO DVD ANNOUNCEMENT
After many months of editing, re-editing, considering throwing my laptop out the window, giving up, giving in and giving it our all, it looks like Tyketto’s much anticipated “We’ve Got Tomorrow, We’ve Got Tonight” live CD/DVD is nearing completion.
We should soon be able to get it over to our ever-patient fans who attended the taping, and will also start pre-orders soon. Barring any last minute digital gremlins crashing the party, we’re hopeful for a mid-late January release.
For those who don’t know what the hell I’m talking about…. This past June, we headed off to the lovely town of Pontypridd, Wales with a 14 piece band to produce a very special concert and live video event. The goal was to mix things up with radically different versions of your favorite Tyke tunes that span our entire career. Both the band and fans in attendance agreed that our goals were met. It was a very emotional weekend, celebrating music, friendship and family, We can’t wait to share it with the world.
Check the Tyketto website for updates on the release date, as well as updates on our upcoming “Strength in Numbers” anniversary tour which kicks off in March. We have less than 30 tickets left for the March 9th show at The Rescue Rooms in Nottingham and less than 20 for the March 16th show at The Cluny in Newcastle, so you best get your tickets now before they sell out!
6 Songs from the 80's, 5 Rerecording’s from the 80's, 3 New songs recorded in 2018.
In 1988 LYPSWITCH moved from Orlando, FL. to Hollywood, CA. to follow the Rock N Roll dream. In three years the band played over 100 shows and was almost signed. After 30 years the band has regrouped and has finally released this CD.
Featuring 14 Songs, including 3 new Lypswitch Songs.
The Songs:
World of Sin
American Song
Somewhere Someplace (Featuring Joe Leste of Bang Tango)
Rock N Roll ain't Pretty
Watch Me Live
Domination (New)
Thirst (New)
Carry Me Away (New)
Rattlesnake Skin
Sexx on the Sun
Razorblade Slide
Kiss in the Dark
Psychedelic
Dave's Song
Already their upbeat, wild rock sound has spread through the airwaves of Southern California via KNAC 105.5, which has been playing Lypswitch's demo tune "Rattlesnake Skin". Wait any longer and you’ll need binoculars to see them from your Coliseum luxury box. - LA Weekly March 1990
With such killer songs as "Rattlesnake Skin", and "Kiss in the Dark" these prophets of what they call "Underground Punk Funk Street Rock" are headed to the top. - BAM Magazine August 10, 1990
They have just enough sex and looks to play the strip, just enough grit, reality, and black leather to play the darker scene. - Concrete Jungle - 1989
The band has the material, image and looks... - Rock City News March 1990
Hard-driving riffs and an anthemic chorus reminiscent of bands such as GNR and Poison. - BraveWords - Canada - April 2015
UK melodic hard rock band, GIN ANNIE, have announced the release of their debut album '100% Proof' on January 25 via Off Yer Rocka Recordings. '100% Proof' contains 10 tracks and will please fans of heavy guitar driven songs, with melodic vocal style; hook-laden choruses and classy melodies.
'100% Proof' was produced and engineered by Jay Shredder and recorded at Shredder Live Lounge.
Track listing:
1. Love Ain't Here
2. Dead & Gone
3. Chains
4. New Bad Habit
5. Next 2 Me
6. Damage
7. Fallin’
8. All I Want
9. Haunt Me
10. Born to Rock n Roll
A music video for the song 'Chains' can be viewed here:
GIN ANNIE is a hard melodic rock 5-piece from Wolverhampton, England, featuring heavy guitar driven songs whilst maintaining a melodic vocal style; hook-laden choruses and classy melodies.
GIN ANNIE are based around the nucleus of cousins, Dave Foster (vocals) and Byron Garbett (guitars). In November 2017, the Black Country rockers saw a change of line-up to form MKII of the band, with the addition of Brian Green on guitar and Phill ‘Hammer’ Burrows on bass. Drumming powerhouse Jack Ryland-Smith completes the group.
Guitarist, Byron Garbett said: “We are thrilled to announce details of our debut album – 100% Proof. A lot of heavy riffs and heavy nights went into the writing and recording of this and we can’t wait for folks to get their ears around it. It’s just 5 guys from the Black Country making a racket but one we hope many will enjoy.”
While other magazines seems to be getting slimmer due to the recent paper price increases, the mighty Fireworks remains at a colossal 148 pages, with the addition of an extra 215 page pdf and over 100 mp3 songs on our cover-mounted CD (also available via download link for imported copies. ALL copies bought directly online will have the CD).
This issue sees Thunder discussing their new album of stripped-down reworkings of songs from throughout their career, while Whitesnake’s David Coverdale tells us all about their new ‘Unzipped’ box-set.
Two years after leaving Magnum, Mark Stanway gives us the details on his exciting new band Kingdom of Madness, and elsewhere, Kane Roberts explains the fun of working with Alice Cooper again on his new opus, ‘The New Normal’. And then there’s Heat’s original vocalist Kenny Leckremo telling us all about his debut solo album and Jeff Wayne on bringing his magnificent ‘War of the Worlds’ to the stage.
Other interviews include Within Temptation, Ace Frehley, Uli Jon Roth, Fifth Angel, Nordic Union, Metal Church, Ten, Dan Reed, Evergrey, Jake E. Lee, Amaranthe, Hank Erix, White Widdow, The Tangent, Graham Bonnet, Johnny Gioeli and a truly uplifting chat with Jason Becker. And of course, many, many, many more!!
This issue, the Enthusiasts Guide takes a look at the solo career Rainbow legend Joe Lynn Turner while our Bands That Time Forgot feature, Dave Reynolds runs the rules over two classic bands of the 70s: Teaze and Thrills.
Over 50 pages of detailed reviews and … yeah, you know it .. SO MUCH MORE!!!!
All for £5.99 (plus postage) and a miserly £3.50 for the download (inc pdf and all mp3 songs).
FIND ME have announced that their third album, "Angels In Blue" will be released on February 22, 2019. The band has also released the first single and video from the album, "No Tears In Paradise”.
Vocalist Robbie LaBlanc on the new album: "I really like our first album, but I like "Dark Angel" better than the first one. I have to say that I love our new one the best of all three so far. I hope everyone else agrees, haha. There are some really amazing songs on this record and Daniel stripped the production down a bit on this one, which I really like. I had a lot of fun on this album vocally and I think you’ll hear that in the tracks. They were a joy to sing and there wasn’t one key change on any demo that was presented. It was like the songs were written right for me to sing them. Really, really cool!"
Songwriter, drummer, and producer Daniel Flores adds, "Like always, everything is built around Robbie's voice and range. Carefully structuring all arrangements around the melodies, crafting a powerhouse for every song. I think we have nailed down what that means for Find Me's melodic rock approach. Third time's the charm!"
Of tracks from the album they are particularly fond of, Flores says, "As a producer I tend to fall in love with all songs on the records we do, but the songs 'Desperate Dreams' and 'No Tears In Paradise' are two favorites." With LaBlanc adding, that "'Waiting For A Lifetime' and 'Show Me What You’d Die For' are two that quickly stand out in my mind as favorites. 'No Tears in Paradise' as well. I love our cover of 'Desperate Dreams' by Survivor, I thought it came out really nice and hopefully a great tribute to Jimi Jamison."
FIND ME is an ongoing collaboration between Swedish musician, songwriter and producer Daniel Flores (Issa, The Murder of My Sweet) and singer Robbie LaBlanc from Blanc Faces. The partnership was put together by Frontiers President, Serafino Perugino with a vision to unleash yet another AOR behemoth from the label. Mission accomplished! FIND ME’s debut album, “Wings of Love” and the follow-up release “Dark Angel” were greeted with rave fan and critical reviews, with fans left begging for more music from the duo. No demand could have been easier to fulfill as Daniel and Robbie simply love working together. The result of their latest collaboration is “Angels In Blue”. Once again, a delightful and massive melodic rock album full of mighty, anthemic AOR songs with Robbie’s soaring lead vocals and amazing performances from Daniel Flores and guitarist Philip Lindstrand. Sonically, this powerhouse album sits in between the classic sound of Journey and Giant and newcomers like W.E.T and Eclipse. Yet another unmissable album for the Melodic Rock/AOR crowd from Frontiers.
"Robbie and I really hope you can hear the sweat and tears we have endured during the making of this record. Every finished record is a miracle in the making and this one in particular was hard to make. Thank God it all came through in the end. This is for you guys, the fans who make my work feel like a walk in the park everyday," says Flores.
"I’m really excited Find Me's third album is coming out. I hope the fans love it and I want to express my great respect to all the guys in the band: Phil, Michael, Daniel, Johnny, Rolf, Soren, and all the great writers like Alessandro Del Vecchio and Michael Palace. What a great bunch of musicians and talented, talented people. I am very lucky to be involved with such beautiful and talented people. God bless you all," concludes LaBlanc.
Tracklisting:
1. No Tears In Paradise
2. Chain Of Love
3. True Believer
4. Straight For Eternity
5. Can’t Let Go
6. One Last Kiss
7. Living A Lie
8. Angels In Blue
9. Show Me What You'd Die For
10. Waiting For A Lifetime
11. You Are The Only One
12. Desperate Dreams
13. Only The Lonely
Lineup:
Robert LaBlanc - Lead vocals and backing vocals
Daniel Flores - Drums, percussion and additional keyboards
Sören Kronquist - Keyboards
Philip Lindstrand - Rhythm guitars
Johnny Trobro - Bass
Michael Palace - Lead guitars and rhythm guitars on “Can't Let Go” and “Only The Lonely”
UK's new classic rock outfit MATT MITCHELL & THE COLDHEARTS have announced the release of their first single 'Black Diamonds' on January 25, 2019. The song is taken from the self titled solo record which was recorded at the iconic Rockfield Studios, Wales earlier this year. MATT MITCHELL & THE COLDHEARTS just launched their brand new website: www.mattmitchellmusic.com today.
British Singer/songwriter MATT MITCHELL (PRIDE, FURYON, COLOUR OF NOISE) has recently had the chance to embark on the journey of recording his long awaited debut solo record 'MATT MITCHELL & THE COLDHEARTS'.
MATT MITCHELL & THE COLDHEARTS is:
Matt Mitchell - Vocals & Guitars (PRIDE, FURYON, COLOUR OF NOISE)
Mauro Laconi - Guitars
Dom Ladd - Bass
Matt Cherry - Drums
Stevie Watts - Keyboards
MATT MITCHELL started out singing and writing songs in his late teens learning his craft in several bands early on, he then found himself as the voice of AOR band PRIDE who released two albums in the mid 2000’s on EMI Toshiba and Point Music.
FURYON was MATT MITCHELL's next project. Formed out of the demise of PRIDE a heavier style evolved, with much love and praise from The likes of CLASSIC ROCK & METAL HAMMER magazines. FURYON had a great run touring UK/Europe and performed at several major festivals including DOWNLOAD, BLOODSTOCK and Poland’s gigantic WOODSTOCK festival. Not long after the release of the second album the band was put on ice so that the band members could spend more time song writing and considering their future.
At this point MATT MITCHELL joined LITTLE ANGELS guitarist Bruce John Dickinson forming the much lighter bluesy sounding COLOUR OF NOISE. A good two year run was had with the band. An album was released, followed by lots of touring and yet more major festival slots.
COLOUR OF NOISE were to leave things on a high in 2017 and with one door closing another soon opened in the shape of MATT MITCHELL's solo project with guest players - MATT MITCHELL & THE COLDHEARTS.
AS HIGHLY RATED collectibles go the Alpha Centauri album has to be one of the most coveted records of all time. It’s an album that spent years lurking in the shadows, heard by few but lauded quite rightly as a masterpiece of 70s rock, embroidered with the all the moves and grooves of the great headlining acts of the day. Compared favourably to such heavy hitters as Deep Purple, Uriah Heep, Styx, Angel and Head East, the band’s style was a formidable blast of pompous energy but not, it must be said, a carbon copy or pastiche. This was a unit that knew how to play and also how to write serious material.
Originally thought to have originated from Canada, it came as something of a surprise to eventually find out that they were formed and mainly based in Colorado, but had moved to Winnipeg for a while to expand their horizons and record an album. Represented by an expat British manager, they planned to issue the record for promotion (it’s thought that 300 copies were pressed at the time) using it to attract major label interest. However, despite concerted efforts and a professionally filmed half hour live-in-concert appearance for Canadian TV, it all failed to achieve the desired attention.
Issued in 1977, on the band’s own Salt Records label, the album is a masterclass in heavy pomp rock, showcasing a band who could not only write catchy melodies but also imbue them with the sort of stunning arrangements normally associated with far more successful groups. Tracks such as ‘Hard Life’, ‘Love Is A Curse’ and ‘One Night At A Time’ benefit enormously from stellar instrumental dog fights. In particular, the guitar playing of Jess Redmon is off the chart, drawing accurate comparisons to Ritchie Blackmore and Tommy Bolin.
SPECIAL DELUXE COLLECTOR’S EDITION. Fully Remastered Audio, 16 page full colour booklet – 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork with unpublished photos and new band interview.
TRACK LISTING: 1. HARD LIFE 2. ONE NIGHT AT A TIME 3. I’M A REBEL 4. EARTH IN MOTION 5. LOVE IS A CURSE 6. YOU SHOT ME DOWN 7. LOVE ONLY YOU 8. MAKE IT AT ROCK ‘N’ ROLL
MAX WEBSTER 'A MILLION VACATIONS' CANDY393
WHEN IT COMES to capturing the imagination and interest of progressive rock fans then Max Webster must surely be one of the successful. Once you get your head around the fact that they weren’t actually named after a real person, so no one in the band was actually called Max Webster, then suddenly all the weirdness becomes acceptable and endearing. It’s amazing to think that at one point the band actually grazed the UK singles chart and appeared on Top Of The Pops, the bastion of British light entertainment.
This was Max Webster’s fourth album, their most commercially palatable album by a country mile, and it’s one that secured them not only a Platinum record in Canada, with three hit singles, but also opened up the international market when they supported Rush on their 1979 ‘Hemispheres’ European tour. The album, in keeping with their quirky unconventional approach, was helmed not by a record producer who was a TV advertising executive and jingle writer. It was actually a smart move as the record not only celebrated their progressive rock roots but also showcased a determined ambition to widen their appeal to a broader market.
Recorded in their native Canada, at Phase One Studios, Ontario, the album contains a number of key tracks; including ‘Let Go The Line’, ‘Night Flights’ and the title track. Best of all though is ‘Paradise Skies’, a triumphant and hugely captivating composition that nearly, but not quite, secured them an international hit. It’s also a record that captured some of band leader Kim Mitchell’s most fluent and impressive guitar solos.
SPECIAL DELUXE COLLECTOR’S EDITION. Fully Remastered Audio, 16 page full colour booklet – 4,000 word essay, enhanced artwork with and interview quotes.
TRACK LISTING: 1. PARADISE SKIES 2. CHARMONIUM 3. NIGHT FLIGHTS 4. SUN VOICES 5. MOON VOICES 6. A MILLION VACATIONS 7. LOOK OUT 8. LET GO THE LINE 9. RASCAL HOUDI 10. RESEARCH (AT BEACH RESORTS)
THE SCREAM 'LET IT SCREAM' CANDY384
THERE ARE TIMES here at Rock Candy HQ when our jaws hit the deck and much scratching of heads ensues. This was exactly what happened when we reacquainted ourselves with The Scream’s solitary album, a record that flew under the radar when it was first released, but has subsequently become one of the most respected and revered releases from the early 90’s. It represented a high point for blistering blues-based hard rock. But as we know, grunge engulfed them and others but at least they didn’t go down without a fight.
‘Let It Scream’ was recorded in LA. It was the product of an experienced line up that featured former members of Racer X and Americade, fronted by former Angora singer John Corabi. The band attracted the interest of a few labels and eventually signed with the newly-formed Hollywood label (funded by Disney). Produced by industry legend Eddie Kramer (Led Zeppelin, Kiss, Fastway) and originally issued in 1991, the album is a riot of riffs and thrills, with Corabi surrounded by the sort of thunderous mayhem that wouldn’t sound out of place on an Aerosmith, Cinderella or Skid Row record.
Although the album failed to sell well it did turn heads, not least of all Nikki Sixx and Tommy Lee of Mötley Crüe who, the very day that Vince Neil had left the band, placed a fateful call to Corabi encouraging him to audition as his replacement. Not unexpectedly he accepted the offer, leaving behind an impressive legacy before moving on to other projects, and eventually joining the Dead Daisies.
SPECIAL DELUXE COLLECTOR’S EDITION. Fully Remastered Audio, 16 page full colour booklet – 4,500 word essay, enhanced artwork with and new interview.
TRACK LISTING: 1. OUTLAW 2. I BELIEVE IN ME 3. MAN IN THE MOON 4. FATHER, MOTHER, SON 5. GIVE IT UP 6. NEVER LOVED HER ANYWAY 7. TELL ME WHY 8. LOVES GOT A HOLD ON ME 9. I DON’T CARE 10. EVERY INCH A WOMAN 11. YOU ARE ALL I NEED 12. CATCH ME IF YOU CAN 13. YOUNG AND DUMB BONUS TRACKS (LIVE 1992) 14. OUTLAW 15. GIVE IT UP 16. I BELIEVE IN ME 17. FATHER, MOTHER, SON 18. CATCH ME IF YOU CAN 19. LICK AND A PROMISE
Track list: 1- Forever Free 4:15 / 2- In the name of Love 3:55 / 3- Heart of Stone 5:26 / 4- We can’t choose 3:38 / 5- Who do you think you are 4:39 / 6- Live Free or Die 4:15 / 7- Do you Remember 4:59 / 8- Friday Night 3:39 / 9- I Wanna tell you 4:19 / 10- We will never say goodbye 4:47
Bryan Cole - Lead Vocals / Backing vocals (Giant, Steelcity and solo artist; backing vocals Scherer/Batten)
Stefano Viana - Guitars
Terry Brock - Backing vocals (duet on “Do You Remember”)
Anna Portalupi - Bass (Hardline, Terrry Brock)
Adam Ernst - Drums
Francesco Marras - Guitar
Pasquale India - Keyboards
Special Guest: John Roth (Winger, Starship), lead guitar on “Heart of Stone” and “Forever Free” and second solo part “Do you remember”
Mixed and Mastered by Alessandro Del Vecchio
Produced by Stefano Viana & Bryan Cole / vocals produced by Terry Brock
Stefano Viana is an Italian guitarist, songwriter and producer who has already caused a stir with his first album “Viana” (2017) which received very positive reviews. Following his passion with enthusiasm Stefano contacted singer and producer Bryan Cole (Giant, Steel City, solo artist) and started to work on new material. Alessandro Del Vecchio was the vocalist on the first outing but this time Bryan Cole is at the mike stand. The music was recorded in a studio like in the “good old days” and this has made a great impact on the end result as the musicians have bonded and made a richer sound.
This new album features some great musicians such as Terry Brock and Francesco Marras and also boasts the talents of great American guitar player John Roth from Giant, Winger and Starship. The 10 tracks we have here are all strong songs, there are no fillers here.. just great melodic hard rock played with a passion and flair. This is one album that is going to be talked out in the coming weeks.
Keep the flame of your passions alive and be “Forever Free”.
C.I.S are very excited to announce the new CATS IN SPACE album is called ‘Daytrip To Narnia’ and will be released on 8th March 2019.
Fifteen months in the making, this epic musical feast is by far the band's most accomplished and challenging release to date. It will be available on ‘Harmony Factory’ through Cargo records.
Due to the sheer size of the album it will be released on a delicious DOUBLE WHITE VINYL LP with an exclusive limited poster inside the incredible gatefold sleeve. It will also be available on deluxe CD with 20 page booklet.
But there is more!
EXCLUSIVE to the webstore only, is the amazing ‘NARNIA BOX’ - A beautiful handcrafted wooden box containing the new album and a whole host of exclusive extra music and goodies. It is strictly limited to just 200 boxes worldwide. Each box is hand numbered and stencilled and is the ultimate Cat collectable.
And...
**YOU CAN PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY RIGHT NOW! **
All you lovely Cat fans that pre-order will get your goodies FIRST, ahead of general release.
If you order the NARNIA BOX? You get it even sooner- yes, you will hear and own the album way ahead of the pack...!!
Plus, we have a cornucopia of new exclusive 'Daytrip to Narnia' merchandise including tee shirts, signed items, & turntable mats.
Plus our catalogue of vinyls, CDs and rarities are all available in the store too.
West Bound featuring Chas West have announced their debut album, "Volume 1" will be released on February 22, 2019. Check out first single & video "Never Surrender":
West Bound/Chas West are a hard-hitting new rock band formed in the L.A. area by vocalist Chas West (Resurrection Kings, Bonham, Lynch Mob, etc.) and renowned guitarist/producer Roy Z (Bruce Dickinson, Halford, Tribe of Gypsies), with a line-up completed by Jimmy Burkard (guitar), Jason Cornwell (bass), and Dave “Chilli” Moreno (drums). Additionally, Stephen LeBlanc provides keyboards and Brian Tichy (ex-Whitesnake, Ozzy Osbourne, Foreigner) co-wrote and played drums on two songs for the album. West Bound offer up their take on the classic hard rock sound with soulful vocals, a touch of the blues, and killer melodies.
On where the inspiration of the band’s sound came from, Chas West says his “influences come from 70’s and 80’s classic hard rock, back when music was, in my opinion, real and passionate, from the heart & soul. Bands like Led Zeppelin, Whitesnake, Deep Purple, Foreigner, Aerosmith, Van Halen, etc. were what we grew up on and we just went back to our youth when writing the songs for the album.”
If you remember the great bluesy hard rock explosion from the late ‘80s and early ‘90s with bands like Tesla, Cinderella, Badlands, Tora Tora, and Salty Dog and else enjoy the modern throwback hard rock like Rival Sons, Massive Wagons, Inglorious, and the like, then you are going to find West Bound right up your alley.
On the first single and video, Chas explains that “the song Never Surrender” is one that Roy Z and I came up with in the studio. It’s about going through struggles in life and never giving up on your dream despite them. People can relate to it in their own lives…it’s a theme we all know as human beings. Sometimes the tough times can help you define your true character.”
West Bound’s debut album, “Volume I” will be released on February 22, 2019 on Frontiers Music Srl. The band is currently in the midst of planning tour dates to support the album’s release. Expect more news on that in the new year.
