Chimaira 2013

Well something caught my attention today.  No, it's not some epic top 2012 list or something related to New Years (like most people have been expecting), it's the new endeavour that Chimaira will be forging in 2013.  The Age of Hell has now passed and the new album is already in the works, slated for early 2013.  Well, let's see what Mark Hunter and the guys from Chimaira have in store for us...

Diaphragm Usage In Your Vocals...

Since I am still considering myself to be a part time vocalist, I always like to check out what other people (especially in other genres where vocals are top notch) are doing to keep their voices in check night after night.  A great place to find some of these video and tutorials is obviously YouTube, sometimes even for free.

So I came across an R&B vocalist Eric Arceneaux who has had some great success teaching people of the online world how to use their diaphragm to their advantage in singing... something I was told again and again in vocal lesson training.  Long story short, the use of your diaphragm takes the pressure off your vocal chords somewhat and gather more gusto/air so you can hold and waver notes for longer periods of time and just as strong the whole way through.  Each video lasts approximately 10 mins and encourage you to take a gander.  I still do my Melissa Cross vocal warm-ups before everyone show and it pays off, so feel free to ask for other vocal training videos, or even scour Youtube yourself.

YES Announce 2013 Touring Plans!

"Andrew!"

"Yes Craig?"

"Did you hear about YES making their comeback in 2013?"

...

The band YES are one of the pioneers of progressive rock. Hailing from England, YES are known for their
lengthy compositions and mystical lyrics. YES were formed in 1968 and have went through many line-up
changes over the years.

They have been known for the vocal work of Jon Anderson, and with an amazing musicians like guitarists Steve Howe, Peter Banks, Billy Sherwood and Trevor Rabin. Bassist Chris Squire, along with great drummers like Bill Bruford and Alan White.  Keyboardists as well like Tony Kaye, Rick Wakeman, Oliver Wakeman, Patrick Moraz, Geoff Downes and Igor Khoroshev. YES have also worked with vocalist Trevor Horn, who worked with the band for one album before leaving to go into Producing. The band have had their personnel issues, with members leaving due to not getting along with other band members.



One album called ‘Union’ was recorded with all the members that worked with YES together for one album and tour. Jon Anderson is no longer with the band, leaving due to health issues and was replaced by a Canadian vocalist named Benoit David, but this year Benoit David left the band and was replaced by Jon Davison.



It has been announced that YES are touring again in 2013 with the line-up of Jon Davison (vocals/guitars), Steve Howe (guitars), Chris Squire (bass), Alan White (drums) along with Geoff Downes (keyboards). During this tour the band will be performing three of their older (but classic) albums, from start to finish. The albums they are performing are ‘The Yes Album’, ‘Close to the Edge’ and ‘Going for the One’.

***

I want to thank Craig once again for adding his musical knowledge to the blog, and encourage others to do so if they have the time and ambition.  His interviews and comments can be found on two Mike Oldfield fan groups on Yahoo (which he also moderates):

Mike Oldfield Fan Club & The Alternative Mike Oldfield Group.

You can contact Craig for any further information/questions at: ommadawn69@yahoo.ca

Random Music Quotes: Ellington

The wise musicians are those who play what they can master. -Duke Ellington

I'm Leavin On A Jetplane

Like most of you fine folks, I will be gone on some holidays to stuff my face with booze, food and candy.  I am hoping to be back before the end of 2012 and do a few review articles from the past 365 days.

Safe holiday season everyone and see you back here in a week!  In the meantime, here is a brand new A Day To Remember single titled "Violence" (pending it stays online).  Enjoy!

Music Releases For December 18th, 2012

Well, being that I was off sick for most of Monday and Tuesday I still managed to sift through this week's releases and find some gems in the rough here.  From Rush to The Pogues, In This Moment to Buddy Guy, there is a genre out there for practically everyone.  And good thing too being the holiday season right around the corner ;-)

So folks, be sure to hit up your local record shop or online retailer to grab a few of these great albums!

Only Rush could have pulled this off, and only in the '70s. 2112--the title suite of the band's 1976 breakthrough album--is a comically pretentious, futuristic rock opera written by a nerdy drummer and sung by a whiny-voiced geek. It also happens to be a great piece of rock & roll that lifts the listener through a variety of moods and textures from genteel acoustic ("Oracle") to thrilling metal ("The Temples of Syrinx"). Perhaps realizing that they had taken conceptualism about as far as it could go, even these guys backed off on the epic hero stuff for later releases. 2112 still stands as one of the great signposts of the prog-rock era. --Michael Ruby (Amazon)

AFGM - Make RUSH a Hall of Famer

AFGM - Rush: Clockwork Angels

Overall, In This Moment's new album should appeal to their fanbase - it's got some stylistic changes, but the core sound is still there, and Maria Brink's vocals are as sharp as ever. The major downfall is the lead single/title track and the lyrical limitations, but most metal fans should be able to look past that and enjoy it for what it is - an actually creative metalcore album. -Sputnik Music

AFGM - In This Moment: Blood

The big "gotcha" for Buddy Guy fans, however, is the inclusion of three previously unreleased studio tracks from the sessions for Guy's Living Proof album: "Polka Dot Love," "Coming For You," and "Country Boy." Don't know what they sound like yet, and their failure to make the album has little to do with the quality - major label releases, in particular, will often drop good songs off the final sequencing for an album to lower the cost of songwriting royalties. So there's your Christmas present from Buddy Guy...seven new, scorching live tracks, three unreleased studio songs, one reasonably-priced new album. The Reverend has already ordered his copy, and you can find Live At Legends in your local record store on December 18, 2012. -About.com

How can rock grow and thrive in this digital age of urban beats and pop plasticity? Canadian quartet Metric fret over this dilemma on a fifth album so thrilling it almost makes the question academic. Artificial Nocturne opens in a slow burn of ambient synth-pop that takes a provocatively long time to get going, delaying the entrance charge of drums until two minutes have passed. But the mood abruptly shifts with autotuned glam rock stomp Youth Without Youth, chunky guitars powering up a deadpan anthem of extended adolescence while robot voices deliver the hook line.

The sound is nerdy, smart and sexy, which would also be a good description of frontwoman Haines, whose delivery can switch from frosty detachment to purring sex kitten.

Synthetica merges electronic music with the organic spirit of college rock. Not that there is anything radical in that. Bands have been experimenting with the electro-rock blend since the mid-Eighties. What feels right (or at least absolutely right now) about Metric is the perfect balance, every element in its place and in service of a set of sinuous, hook-laden, elegantly crafted pop songs. -Telegraph

‘You Call That A Knife, This Is A Knife!’ is one of the best tracks  on the record and the track that saw these guys gain a huge following. Symphonics accompany huge riffs, leading into a synth clean chorus. It’s catchy as hell! Oh and it’s probably got one of the most offensive drops you’ll hear in a while.

The rest of the album provides much of the same, title track ‘Til Death’ builds upon the symphonic arrangements and ‘The Departed 2.0′ being a nice little acoustic number.

‘Til Death’ is an album everyone will love to hate. But all in all it’s fun and probably makes for a killer live show! It’s the sound of a group of guys having fun and living out their dreams. -Crash Music (UK)

This edition (and the Super Deluxe Edition) will be an essential addition to the collection of any Clapton fan. Everything is interesting and worth listening to, from the familiar songs to the new releases and live material. The sound quality is excellent and you will not miss the scratches and hisses that your original album developed, if you are a long-time fan like this journalist is. -Seattlepi.com 

(DVD)

The Pogues in Paris is a spirited look back over a lengthy, colorful career and a testament to MacGowan’s ability as a songwriter. It would have been interesting to hear a little back story about some of the songs, but MacGowan mostly just announces the next song and occasionally thanks the crowd. Though, based on his intermittent intelligibility, it’s probably for the best. -Speak Creatures

Alice In Chains - Hollow/The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here

"Two weeks ago, Alice In Chains began posting the lyrics from their brand new song, 'Hollow' to @aliceinchains on Instagram, asking you, the fans to create an image inspired by or featuring a word or phrase from the lyrics. Fans from around the world took to Instagram, sharing their photo interpretations of each lyrical phrase."

Here is the final product from YOU all:



"Hollow" was available for purchase on iTunes beginning January 8th, 2013 with the official music video dropping on January 10th and their latest single "Stone" coming out officially on March 26th.  You can check all of them out both below.

"There's some real filth in there. That's intentional, and that's also just how we sound together.  We're trying to make a record that we dig and we're trying to keep the bar high for ourselves and see if we can get past it, and I think that we did again. And of course you want people to dig it too and to respond to it, and to have that start happening is satisfying." -Cantrell

"Read a fucking paper. What I've seen is the most basic message to most faith systems is in contradiction with how it gets applied. The human element seems to fuck it up. It seems to fuck up the basic truths of acceptance, loving your brother, helping each other out, not trying to kill each other or steal each other's shit. Those are all pretty good ideas. And most of your major religions have those things as basic tenets of the belief system. It always amazes me that some of the most hateful and hurtful things are done in the name of some sort of belief system." -Cantrell

(Image resolution is very small for this pic so apologies)

Alice In Chains has also announced the first string of tour dates in support of the new album “The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here”, which is looking to have a May, 2013 release date.

1. Hollow

2. Pretty Done

3. Stone

4. Voices

5. The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here

6. Lab Monkey

7. Low Ceiling

8. Breath on a Window

9. Scalpel

10. Phantom Limb

11. Hung on a Hook

12. Choke

So you all want to see something cool that came to light?  Thanks to the work of photo shop (and a music enthusiast named TheSorceressKnight), we can see what underlying designs this album has:

So now we see another alternative cover at the official AIC website...

"I don't think you'll be surprised by anything you hear.  It's us. But it's also really unique. It's got all the elements of any record we've put out, but it's unlike any record we've put out. Basically, it's the next chapter in the ALICE IN CHAINS book, and it's going to be a big one." -Cantrell

"Fan pre-sale for most tour dates begins, Tuesday, January 15. Check back tomorrow for additional pre-sale information. Tickets for all headline tour dates go on sale to the general public this Friday, January 18." -AIC

Newsted - METAL

So if you haven't heard by now, Jason Newsted (former longtime bassist of Metallica) has decided to get back into the groove of making music and using social media to get his name back out there!  A lot of support has been pouring in from fans of the former Metallica/Voivod/Echo Brain bassist with comments and 'likes' on some of his recent posts and studio updates such as this one:



"It's time for me to reconnect with all my fans and friends out there around the world with the launch of my OFFICIAL online presence.

I want YOU to be the first to know about what's happening with me and all of my projects: past, present, and FUTURE!. So send me your email by signing up here on the website and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube."

Well sure enough there was going to be a leak of some of his new material that he has been teasing us with.  The latest leaks was a track taken from his upcoming EP simply titled "Metal".  Somehow I like it.  It's simple, straight to the point and not about the most intricate lyrics, solos, BPMs...just metal!

1. Soldierhead
2. Godsnake
3. King of the Underdogs
4. Skyscraper

According to Billboard, "Metal" has sold around 6,200 copies in its first week of release and debuted at number 62 on the U.S. Billboard 200.  So without further delay, here is the music video for "Soldierhead":



All I can say is you can easily hear the 'old school' metal sound with influences coming out from Megadeth, Metallica (of course), Motorhead and others which you can feel free to comment on.  More on the way as it comes!  Orders for the EP are happening over at Jason's official website.

March 21, 2013 UPDATE:

Newsted has now been made a four piece thanks to the addition of guitarist Mike Mushok, who you all know as the lead guitarist in STAIND.  At first glance, it seems like an odd person to be playing with.  But then again, the latest release of Staind is anything but mellow.

Hey, what's up? Mike here and I just wanted to make you guys aware that i'm going to be playing in Jason Newsted's new band, Newsted. Staind isn't breaking up just taking a break. Since we have some time off, this opportunity came up for me and i'm going to take advantage of it. Staind will be back with a new record at some point, just not exactly sure when. Feel free to come out and check out a show if you'd like, be great to see you! -Mushok

Mushok has created some timeless riffs in the past and (I find) will be a great addition to the group.  Check out one of the jam sessions below:

Opener “Soldierhead” is a rigid crusher; Newsted speed-slaps his bass before letting us hear his metal voice for the first time. He snarls like Rob Zombie, and his inflection mimics that of Voivod’s Denis Bélanger. The lyrics are cheesy but forgivable: “Demon-scene hellscape / Try to not get dead.” Stylistically, there’s not much variation between the four tracks. “Godsnake” and “Skyscraper” share stop-start rhythms and lyrics about war and destruction (it is Metal, after all). Six-minute centerpiece “King of the Underdogs” sounds like it was written as a middle finger to Hetfield and Ulrich, the musical equivalent of saying, “Fuck you guys, look what I can do.”

And that’s really the whole conceit of Metal. It’s quick, heavy, and repetitive. There’s little melody — just pure thrash. In four songs, Jason Newsted evokes the raw abandon and simplicity this genre mandates. Metallica? Pssh. Who needs ‘em. -Consequence of Sound

As I Lay Dying/The Devil Wears Prada North American Tour 2013

2013 is certainly coming along nicely with the addition of some great tours coming through Toronto.  Being that As I Lay Dying just played a great show alongside Memphis May Fire, CAYM and local favourites Baptized In Blood in London, ON it was a little unsettling to see them NOT hit up Toronto on that tour.  I now understand why they held off on coming to the big city.

So as you all can see from the poster below, As I Lay Dying has set plans to hit up North America once again with co-headliner The Devil Wears Prada.  The bill rounds out quite smooth with For Today (2/22 - 3/5 and 3/8 - 4/4), The Color Morale (2/22 - 3/7) and The Chariot (3/8 - 4/4) on selected dates.

02/22 Ventura, CA Majestic Ventura Theater Half House
02/23 Santa Cruz, CA The Catalyst
02/24 Chico, CA Senator Theatre
02/26 Reno, NV Knitting Factory Concert House
02/27 Las Vegas, NV House of Blues
02/28 Los Angeles, CA Club Nokia



03/01 San Diego, CA Soma
03/02 Tucson, AZ Rialto Theatre
03/03 El Paso, TX Tricky Falls
03/05 Corpus Christi, TX Concrete Street Amphitheatre
03/06 San Antonio, TX Backstage Live
03/07 Dallas, TX House of Blues
03/08 Lubbock, TX Lonestar Events Center



"We are pumped to announce our tour with As I Lay Dying!" -TDWP

03/09 Oklahoma City, OK Diamond Ballroom
03/10 Memphis, TN New Daisy Theatre
03/12 Nashville, TN Rocketown
03/13 Charlotte, NC Amos' Southend
03/14 Charleston, SC The Music Farm
03/15 Norfolk, VA The NorVa
03/16 Silver Spring, MD The Fillmore



03/17 Hartford, CT Webster Theatre
03/19 Allentown, PA Crocodile Rock
03/20 Huntington, NY Paramount Theater
03/21 Poughkeepsie, NY The Chance
03/22 Williamsville, NY Club Infinity
03/23 Toronto, ON The Sound Academy
03/24 Millvale, PA Mr. Smalls Theatre
03/25 Millvale, PA Mr. Smalls Theatre



"Very happy to announce we will be hitting the road with As I Lay Dying, The Devil Wears Prada, and For Today this Feb/March!" -TCM

03/27 Columbus, OH Newport Music Hall
03/28 Grand Rapids, MI The Intersection
03/29 Milwaukee, WI The Rave
03/30 Minneapolis, MN First Avenue
04/02 Lawrence, KS The Granada Theatre
04/03 Colorado Springs, CO Black Sheep
04/04 Colorado Springs, CO Black Sheep



Tickets will be going on sale Friday Dec. 21st, 2012 (*10am EST).  More info about the tour/bands from Metal Blade Records official site.

Follow some of my previous links with these headlining bands and see you in the pit!


AFGM - As I Lay Dying Gets Awakened & Cauterized!

AFGM - The Devil Wears Prada: Dead Throne Music Videos

Monday Details...

Sorry folks,

Feeling a bit under the weather today so won't be hearing from me much.  In the meantime, I myself even need some new tunes for a coughing fit Monday.  Check out some of the latest music videos that dropped over the past few days.  Cheers and see you all back here later his week!

Highly anticipated (and pushed back) release of Papa Roach's new music video "Where Did All The Angel Go".  I'm going to take a wild guess here but I am guessing they are somewhere between insects?  Bad joke?  Anyways, let's press on:

***

Rev Theory show off the new music video for "Something New", coming off a special edition EP "Take Em Out":

***

Flaming Lips release a preview for their free Halloween show in Oklahoma City, titled 'Freak Night':



No official release date set for the DVD but it's expected to be announced sometime next week.

Mutiny Within, Industry Embers and the Ongoing Piracy Battles...

OK, so I found my lil rant for the day.  I am very torn on this one too so I leave it to the rest of the readers here to give their opinion.  As you all know, I had the pleasure of conducting an interview with Mutiny Within vocalist Chris Clancy (who is also an independent sound engineer).  He had some great answers for my string of questions and even was kind enough to share exclusive info about their upcoming "Mutiny Within II" album release.

Check out the full interview here.

Since then I have obviously been following them closely with new information surfacing about album artwork, singles and now their new music video titled "Embers", which you can check out below:



You can show some love for the band and purchase the single through their Bandcamp profile.

Now here is the kicker where I am torn on.  The video circles around the concept of music pirating and the money bands lose as a direct result of this.  MUTINY WITHIN has even "partnered with Tommy Jones (the studio) in a brand new anti-piracy movement called Industry Embers. In a society where “downloading” music for free has become accepted and even the norm, people on the outside rarely are able to grasp the true effects of their stealing and how it trickles down to all the aspects of the entire music industry." -Metal Injection)

Love the band, mixed feelings on the movement.  I have a lot of respect for the band to continue what they do regardless of the lack of funding they have.  But I have also backed various legislation that has to do with online piracy and downloading.  My feelings seem to mimic some of the comments on the music video.  I do agree that labels are a way of the past and that they seem to fit the purpose when physical copies of albums needed to be distributed.  I do agree that there is 1000 times more artists that all are looking to be top contender, even a slight contender if you will.  I do agree that musicians, artists and online music sites need to find new ways to garnish some revenue.  I do agree that you should support bands and buy their albums, go to their shows and buy their merch.  Bands need fans as much as fans need bands.

There's no need to revisit the Metallica/Napster thing is there?

We've seen labels go to great lengths to protect their copyright laws and the funds that they take from the band's work, even if the bands themselves don't agree with the lawsuit:

AFGM: A Series of Unfortunate Downloads

We have also seen the hard line approach by lobbyists and government officials to harden copyright infringement

AFGM: SOPA (Similar to Bill C-11 in Canada)

I compare bands making stardom and a living the same way as if I was to try out for a major sports team or a game show...only a few selected and everyone else can just deal with it.  It sucks guys and I know it.  I myself am not getting paid a single cent right now for writing any of these articles.  This is a hobby (which hoping to turn into something more lucrative) that I just enjoy doing.  I guess not everyone is like me and has the ability to have a good full time job and able to do their hobbies on the side.

I guess I just look at the reality of the situation.  Rather than trying to fight something that has millions upon millions of people backing (internet downloading, free music, etc), I look for ways to make funds off of my hobbies.  Don't get me wrong, I feel for the musicians that desperately try and make their voices heard above others or don't get signed to a label after years or even decades of hard work and determination.  I like to think back 30-40 years or so when vinyl was still at an all time high.  What did society think then cassettes came on the market and people could record and re-record music from friends who bought albums and cassettes?  Did we call for legislation then?

Anyways, this wasn't a hate on article to burn bridges, take sides or whatnot.  This was compiling both sides of the argument so that people can form their own decisions about the state of the music industry and the way it is headed.  As always, support music at the end of the day.  Check out the videos, buy them albums, go to the shows and buy the merch.  It means a lot to the bands you care for so deeply about.

AFGM: First of the Fore

www.industryembers.org

www.facebook.com/IndustryEmbers

industryembers@gmail.com

If you would like to read some of my previous articles surrounding the issues currently being discussed, check out any of the following:

AFGM: The State of Music (A Billy Corgan Interview at SXSW)

AFGM:  Digital Piracy Didn't Kill Music

CataCombo Sound System

OK, so I don't really have much to say on this because it pretty much speaks for itself.  But if anyone has an extra $30,000 to bury away (haha), check out the top of the line media centre coffin...



For more info (if you're really that interested), visit: www.catacombosoundsystem.com

Now the next question is, what would you have as a playlist inside the coffin?

Music Releases For December 11th, 2012

So it was really slim pickings here this week when it comes to notable music (at least from an AFGM perspective) coming out this week either digitally or physically.  But we will make it short and sweet.  I threw in the Hobbit here because I am personally a fan of the movies and also the composition that comes with the movies.  Something of that magnitude obviously has a lot of consideration for structure, placement and mood of the movie.

The other notable one would be the Circle of Contempt EP for those that are into the heavier stuff.  Rammstein is also back in action with a new version of the track "Mein Herz Brennt" and also some new live footage of Metallica in Quebec City (circa 2009).  Interpol is always a great 'sit back and chill' kind of band to me.  Nothing too technical about this particular album, but felt it was worthy of mention.  Green Day...well, I liked Dookie, so I thought out of respect to shed some light on the third of the trilogy.  Going to keep my feeling reserved for it, but I'm sure you can come to your own conclusions.

Anyways and as usual, make your way down to your local record shop or an online retailer to grab a few of these.



The Special Edition of the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack to The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey contains the full score from the film with seven extended score cues, six exclusive bonus tracks, and deluxe liner notes packaged in a 2 CD hardcover digibook. The Soundtrack features original score by Academy Award winner Howard Shore recorded at famed Abbey Road Studios by the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Additionally it includes an original song, Song of the Lonely Mountain, written and performed by Neil Finn (Crowded House).

One of today's most respected, honored, and active composers and music conductors, Howard Shore previously worked with director Peter Jackson on The Lord Of The Rings Trilogy, which stands as his most towering achievement to date. He won three Academy Awards for his music for those films. -Amazon

AFGM: Circle of Contempt - Entwine The Threads

All the songs on 'Entwine The Threads' are rock solid and offer something very special to the listener. Every track is a stand out track filled with original ideas and chilling moments. I could sit here and describe the songs individually, but instead I recommend you go listen to all of the above from the opening title track to the closer 'Perceive The Mendacity' as soon as possible.

To sum things up, this EP is just plain incredible. I have no real criticisms here. Objectively, some people may not appreciate the greatness, but that's their own problem. "Entwine The Threads" is a highly recommended musical experience. If you haven't already, go out and buy this! Support great metal! -The Circle Pit

"ps. There will be a small amount of physical copies to order from Sumerian Records store, more info about that coming soon." -CoC

(*digital single) 

For additional information regarding the single, please check out my previous article:

AFGM - Rammstein: 'Videos 1995-2012'/Mein Herz Brennt

(DVD/Blu Ray)

Quebec Magnetic is a live concert video album by Metallica, documenting two shows the band played at the Colisée Pepsi in Quebec City, Canada on October 31 and November 1, 2009 on their World Magnetic Tour, released on December 10, 2012. The album will the first to be released via Metallica's own label, Blackened Recordings.

The album was announced on September 20, 2012, with fans voting online to decide which of the two shows recorded would be shown in its entirety; the remaining songs will be shown as "extras" on the album. -Wiki (additional sources 1, 2 and 3)

Still, despite ¡TRE!‘s successes, and those on ¡UNO! and ¡DOS! before it…37 songs in four months? The whole package is overkill that could have easily been cut in half (or a third) for one really solid album that had fans and non-believers alike giving props and singing praises of Green Day’s return. Instead, now, even as ¡TRE! is released, it doesn't stand alone, but rather as a confused part of some greater gimmick. It’s a contrivance. But for what purpose? For us to see how easy songwriting can be? Sorry, but that’s not compelling, mostly because it can always be better and more challenging. And even when you've won five Grammys and sold over 65 million records worldwide, that’s still something worth striving for. -Idolator

Turn On The Bright Lights is now fully remastered in a beautiful deluxe hardbound book with unreleased photos and a second disc of bonus tracks, many unreleased, plus the demos and B-sides and a DVD.

Packaging includes super-deluxe hardbound book, with 28 pages of photos, ephemera & liner notes. Also included are 17 bonus tracks, many never before on vinyl, including one previously unreleased song, four previously unreleased demos, eight B-sides and pre-album EP tracks, four peel session tracks (two unreleased) and a DVD with all three music videos and bonus live footage from May 2000 at The Mercury Lounge and September 2002 at the Troubadour. -Amazon

Rammstein: 'Videos 1995-2012'/Mein Herz Brennt

Nothing like the good men of RAMMSTEIN to get your weirded out for the day (yeah I know it's not a word but get over it).  Here we can see front man Mr. Till Linderman all dolled up for a very stripped down version of their epic intro song "Mein Herz Brent" (taken from the 2001 album 'MUTTER').



This video (I believe) is to get some media attention and some well deserved hype to their video collection being released this holiday season.  "Videos 1995-2012" will be released on various dates across the globe.



Here are the set release dates:

December 14th, 2012:
Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, Holland, Poland, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland

December 17th, 2012:
Bulgaria, Denmark, France, Greece, Hungary, Norway, Portugal, Romania, UK

December 18th, 2012:
Italy, Spain

February, 2013:
Canada, USA (new dates will be announced soon)

January 21st, 2013:
Mexico

January 25th, 2013:
Australia, New Zealand

January 30th, 2013:
Japan

OK, so as much as I am a huge fan of Rammstein and a loyal follower since I discovered them in the early millennium it seems they always have something "new" to release.  I picked up "Lichtspielhaus" upon it's release back in '03 thinking that will keep me covered.  But like Metallica, Rolling Stones, Korn and every other artist that's got coin in their pockets, they keep hashing out more live albums, more compilations, and more DVD/live performances.  Nonetheless and as a dedicated fan, I'll be sure to be grabbing this upon release day.  It'll be that extra present I saved for myself and didn't mention to anyone for holiday shopping. ;-)

Here is what is going to be included in the 3 DVDs (PAL/NTSC), 455 Min. set

Digi Packing | 56 Page Booklet | Lenticular Cover | 25 Music Videos | 24 "Making of" Videos

DVD #1:

1. Du riechst so gut
2. Making of "Du riechst so gut"
3. Seemann
4. Making of "Seemann"
5. Rammstein
6. Making of "Rammstein"
7. Engel
8. Making of "Engel"
9. Du hast
10. Making of "Du hast"
11. Du riechst so gut ‘98
12. Making of "Du riechst so gut ‘98"
13. Stripped
14. Making of "Stripped"
15. Sonne
16. Making of "Sonne"
17. Links 2 3 4
18. Making of "Links 2 3 4"

DVD #2:

1. Ich will
2. Making of "Ich will"
3. Mutter
4. Making of "Mutter"
5. Feuer frei!
6. Making of "Feuer frei!"
7. Mein Teil
8. Making of "Mein Teil"
9. Amerika
10. Making of "Amerika"
11. Ohne dich
12. Making of "Ohne dich"
13. Keine Lust
14. Making of "Keine Lust"
15. Benzin
16. Making of "Benzin"




DVD #3:

1. Rosenrot
2. Making of "Rosenrot"
3. Mann gegen Mann
4. Making of "Mann gegen Mann"
5. Pussy
6. Making of "Pussy"
7. Ich tu dir weh
8. Making of "Ich tu dir weh"
9. Haifisch
10. Making of "Haifisch"
11. Mein Land
12. Making of "Mein Land"
13. Mein Herz brennt – Piano Version (seen above)
14. Mein Herz brennt
15. Making of "Mein Herz brennt"

Visit Rammstein's official website for more details and information for pre-orders.  And when you do, just remember that creepy smile that Till always makes in music videos.  Haha LOVE IT!

And if that wasn't enough for you Rammstein fiends, then check out the newly released EXPLICIT version of the single.  Even though it's a blog, I still got to give the heads up to young readers and easily offended folks for it.  Even though this doesn't go as far as let's say their single "Pussy", but you have been warned:

In Colour (UK)

Well it seems that I have found my Friday morning music.  UK's ‘In Colour’ has made it's online debut and with a star studded lineup for the project.  Now I personally thought that Dan Tompkins was at his limit between his solo work, Piano, At Heart and Skyharbor, but that hasn't stopped him from going in head first with this new project and a much different sound I might add than his previous work.  That and the fact that you have a member of the group SikTh (aka Dan Weller), it's shaping up to be something quite substantial here.

In Colour is the new band created by former SikTh guitarist and UK Producer Dan Weller (Enter Shikari, Young Guns, Kids in Glass Houses). Having been the talk of the British underground for some time now, In Colour is finally ready for its introduction to the world with debut video, ‘Listen For The Rain’ and track ‘All That I’ve Been Waiting For’.



(An excerpt taken from the band's Facebook page)

The 5-piece, completed by ex-Tesseract front man Dan Tompkins (Vocals), Ciaran Cahill (Synths), Pete Skipper (Bass), Darren Baxter (Drums) boast a sound that is laden with massive hooks, ethereal vocals and timeless songwriting.

Weller says: “This has been bubbling away for years. Ciaran and I first started writing together in ‘07. Along with our rock roots we both share a love of 80’s and 90’s pop music. We really wanted to create something ambitious and unique that fused it all into a massive sound.”

The co-writers rounded out the line-up with the recruiting of Pete Skipper and Darren Baxter.

Weller says: “Darren and Pete are two of the best musicians I’ve ever had the privilege of playing or recording with. When they joined the band we knew we’d be fighting off lots of other acts for their services. They’ve turned down some massive gigs for this, so we all really want the world to see how great they are.”



Once the four musicians had become a tight unit they found the singer that they’d always dreamt of having, long time friend Dan Tompkins.

Tompkins says: “The moment I heard the songs I knew the band was special. To be involved with musicians of such quality is an incredible pleasure. We have worked tirelessly on this and we can’t wait to get going. ‘In Colour’ is the band I’ve always dreamed of being a part of.”

Having been in talks with labels and publishers alike, and having a long list of contemporaries as fans, 2013 is set to be the beginning of a very special journey. An album, recorded earlier this year at Thailand’s notable Karma Sounds studio, will be unleashed in the summer.



For more information on these guys and the ongoing work they are doing, visit them at any of their official sites:

- facebook.com/weareincolour

- twitter.com/weareincolour

- youtube.com/weareincolour

- Email at: weareincolour@gmail.com

Random Music Quotes: Barzun

"Music is intended and designed for sentient beings that have hopes and purposes and emotions." -Jacques Barzun

Wagner Reloaded

So I see Apocalyptica is back in the news once again for an original idea (hoping it makes it's way to North America eventually).  The chello metal masters have devised an evening (along with choreographer Gregor Seyffert) to bring you the works of legendary German composer Richard WAGNER.  Being a fan of classical works, including the big names such as Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, and of course Wagner, I was very excited to see classical music making it's way into modern day rock musicians and in the spotlight.



It was only a matter of time before I saw Apocalyptica performing standard classical pieces for crowds, being that they did (and still do) such an amazing job with their Metallica covers, as well as their ballads like Sacra (see below):




The Berlin choreographer Gregor Seyffert designed an unusual cross-genre show with a mixture of dance, acrobatics, object theater, audiovisual media, and LIVE concert, which will make the full life of Richard Wagner experienced.

The focus is not individual works or operas, but the visualization of the unique life and creative path of Richard Wagner, who will be in this form for the first time ever presented on stage.

As noted, "Wagner Reloaded" will feature APOCALYPTICA, the symphony orchestra of German broadcasting network MDR, Kristjan Järvi, Titanick (theater ensemble crew), and the Jugend Berlin Ballet.  All featured in a 100 minute peformance.

"Imaginative, experienceable extravagant theatre for all the senses in a specially designed panorama universe; better than cinema and experienced at first hand." -Wagner Reloaded

"Once again. We are really exited of this project which will happen next summer in Lepzig/ Germany. Something really new and exiting will happen! I have strong feeling of that. Yours." -Paavo

More information as it comes.  For now, you can check the following official links:

- www.wagner-reloaded.blogspot.de

- www.wagner-show.de

- www.facebook.com/Apocalyptica

- www.facebook.com/WagnerReloaded

Sound City Documentary

One of the most talked about documentaries for music in years has finally got a trailer!  Dave Grohl's Sound City Documentary has won over a fair amount of skeptic people (including me) into how interesting can a documentary be about a music studio.  Well...



The film is set to be debuted at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival (Jan 17-27th, 2013), with a world wide release date tentatively set for February.

"Through interviews and performances with the legendary musicians and producers who worked at America's greatest unsung recording studio, Sound City, we explore the human element of music, and the lost art of analog recording in an increasingly digital world." -Sundance Film Festival

The film will be featuring interviews and discussion by artists such as:

-Tom Petty
-Stevie Nicks
-Trent Reznor
-Josh Homme
-Rick Rubin
-Lee Ving
-Mick Fleetwood
-Lars Ulrich
-Lindsey Buckingham
-Corey Taylor
-Kevin Cronin
-Alain Johannes
-Rick Springfield
-Ross Robinson
-Rupert Neve
-Dave Grohl
-Krist Novoselic
-Brad Wilk
-Frank Black
-Butch Vig
-Pat Smear
-Vinny Appice
-Benmont Tench
...and many more!

For more information (as it comes), visit the official Sound City [Documentary] website.

“As a first time director, I am humbled to be able to share my passion for songwriting and storytelling with this incredible cast of legendary musicians, as seen through the extraordinary story of America’s greatest unsung recording studio, Sound City. Being included in this group of artists is a true honor, and the Sundance Film Festival is the perfect place to premiere a film about craft, integrity, and passion for art. I am over the moon!” -Grohl

Pre-orders have just started up too folks!  Wanna know the kicker... ONLY $10!

HOW THIS WORKS

Pre-order and you'll immediately receive access to some super sweet stuff to tide you over until the film is available.

When the film is released on 2/1/2013 we'll send you an email with info on how you can login and watch or download DRM-Free.

Michael Hutchence Biopic in the Works

I was just listening to his cover of "The Passenger" the other day from the Batman Forever soundtrack, so funny enough that I would be reading articles the next day talking about his upcoming biopic.  And even more of a coincidence that INXS just announced their final shows and plan to disband?



So we all have heard about INXS at one time or another.  For those that don't, then time to jump on the world wide web and hit up Wiki for their full bio.  The band met great commercial success in the 80's and early 90's with the ever popular "Devil Inside", "Suicide Blonde" and "New Sensation."  Unfortunately (and as cliche as it sounds) tragedy struck the group when front man Michael Hutchence (according to coroner reports) committed suicide in relation to alcohol and substance abuse.  Always a shame when bands are at the top of their game and lose a vital member to the team.

Since his untimely death in 1997, the band recruited a new member and only recently did they announce that they have plans to disband.  Luckily though, writer Bobby Galinksy has decided to write a screenplay for the late singer's bio and the events surrounding his life and ultimately his death.  Not many details have been released yet, other than the confirmation that the biopic is in the works and casting is to begin in early 2013.

"Who was Michael Hutchence? What drove him? What were his demons? What were his loves?" -Gallinsky (focusing on a number of key questions as he works on the screen play)



"It's from the family's side as Michael being a son, a brother, a friend. It's not a sex, drugs and rock & roll tabloid situation." -Galinsky

Stay tuned for more details!  In the meantime, I figured to let you all listen to the track I was this morning:

Soilwork: The Living Infinite

Soilwork will be set the unveil their ninth studio album, "The Living Infinite", (and first dual-disc I might add) on February 27 in Asia (via license to Marquee Records), in Europe on March 1, and in North America on March 5 through Nuclear Blast Records.



CD 1

1. Spectrum Of Eternity
2. Memories Confined
3. This Momentary Bliss
4. Tongue
5. The Living Infinite I
6. Let The First Wave Rise
7. Vesta
8. Realm Of The Wasted
9. The Windswept Mercy (featuring Justin Sullivan, lead singer of New Model Army)
10. Whispers And Lights



CD 2:

1. Entering Aeons
2. Long Live The Misanthrope
3. Drowning With Silence
4. Antidotes In Passing
5. Leech
6. The Living Infinite II
7. Loyal Shadow
8. Rise Above The Sentiment
9. Parasite Blues
10. Owls Predict, Oracles Stand Guard

(Jens Bogren mixing the new material)

"After commissioning some pretty elaborate covers for the last couple of records, we decided to try something more sober and design-oriented for 'The Living Infinite'. Who better to call than the man who created the iconic 'Stabbing The Drama' cover? Mircea Gabriel Eftemie is not only a close friend but also an incredible graphic designer. We're all stoked about his work which is different from anything SOILWORK has ever done and perfectly suits the elegant oceanic concept of 'The Living Infinite'. Enjoy, folks!" -Soilwork

We also got some words from the album artist (and member of Mnemic) Mircea Gabriel Eftemie:

"Seven years ago, I created the artwork for the 'Stabbing The Drama' album and I can't believe how time flies! Here we are, with sexy gray hairs, working with my friends in SOILWORK again. This time, we built the cover around a maritime concept, aiming for something direct and symbolic. I believe we achieved that quite well. From my creative deck, I salute you and say: 'Long Live The Living Infinite.'"

Stay tuned for more details, singles and music videos!

Check out the brand new music video (as of April 16th, 2013) for "Spectrum of Eternity" and the single "This Momentary Bliss":




And with more to add as well.  Check out Soilwork's debut music video for "Rise Above The Sentiment":


Be sure to catch SOILWORK on their upcoming 55-show headlining trek through the U.S. and Canada this March. Support for the tour will be Jeff Loomis, Blackguard, The Browning and Wretched:

03/12/13  Empire – West Springfield, VA
03/13/13  The Trocadero – Philadelphia, PA
03/14/13  Bogie’s – Albany, NY
03/15/13  The Gramercy Theater – New York, NY
03/16/13  Webster Theater – Hartford, CT
03/17/13  Petit Campus – Montreal, QC – CANADA
03/18/13  Union Commerciale – Québec City, QC – CANADA
03/19/13  Mavericks – Ottawa, ON – CANADA
03/20/13  The Opera House – Toronto, ON – CANADA
03/21/13  Altar Bar – Pittsburgh, PA
03/22/13  Peabody’s – Cleveland, OH
03/23/13  Token Lounge – Westland, MI
03/24/13  The Rave – Milwaukee, WI
03/25/13  Mojoes – Joliet, IL
03/26/13  Wooly’s – Des Moines, IA
03/27/13  Station 4 – St. Paul, MN
03/28/13  Park Theatre – Winnipeg, MB – CANADA
03/29/13  The Exchange – Regina, SK – CANADA
03/30/13  The Distillery – Calgary, AB – CANADA
03/31/13  Starlite Room – Edmonton, AB – CANADA
04/01/13  The Generator – Prince George, BC – CANADA
04/02/13  Rickshaw Theater – Vancouver, BC – CANADA


04/03/13  El Corazon – Seattle, WA
04/04/13  Hawthorne Theatre – Portland, OR
04/05/13  Slim’s – San Francisco, CA
04/06/13  House of Blues – Hollywood, CA
04/07/13  Rocky Point Cantina – Tempe, AZ
04/08/13  The Rock – Tucson, AZ
04/09/13  Las Vegas Country Saloon – Las Vegas, NV
04/11/13  In The Venue – Salt Lake City, UT
04/12/13  Gothic Theater – Englewood, CO
04/13/13  The Beaumont Club – Kansas City, MO
04/14/13  The Firebird – St. Louis, MO
04/15/13  Trees – Dallas, TX
04/16/13  Backstage Live – San Antonio, TX
04/17/13  Jake’s – Lubbock, TX
04/18/13  Lucky Mule – Abilene, TX
04/19/13  The Chameleon Room – Oklahoma City, OK
04/20/13  Tricky Falls – El Paso, TX
04/21/13  Dirty Dog Bar – Austin, TX
04/22/13  House of Rock – Corpus Christi, TX
04/23/13  Geo’s – McAllen, TX
04/24/13  Scout Bar – Houston, TX
04/26/13  State Theater – St. Petersburg, FL
04/27/13  Freebird Live – Jacksonville, FL
04/28/13  The Casbah – Charlotte, NC
04/29/13  Kingdom – Richmond, VA
04/30/13  Soundstage – Baltimore, MD
05/01/13  Mexicali Live – Teaneck, NJ
05/02/13  The Chance Theater – Poughkeepsie, NY
05/03/13  Broadway Joes – Buffalo, NY
05/04/13  Al Rosa Villa – Columbus, OH
05/05/13  Music Hall – London, ON – CANADA
05/06/13  Station 58 – Syracuse, NY
05/07/13  The Palladium – Worcester, MA

Along with Nuclear Blast Records, Soilwork has launched a music video contest and some of the prizes look too good to pass up.  It's times like these I wish I had more skills as a graphic/video designer.  Here are the rules and prizes: