Sweet Home Wembley 30/6/19
Lynyrd Skynyrd brought its Last Of The Street Survivors Tour to a very hot Wembley Arena in London last night with great support from Status Quo and Massive Wagons. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famers are currently saying farewell to fans across Europe and the U.K. with a nine-city trek, armed with a catalogue of over 60 albums, sales beyond 30 million worldwide and their beloved classic American Rock anthems, 'Sweet Home Alabama' and 'Freebird'. Indeed it was an honour to witness the last throes of a cultural icon that appeals to multiple generations, carrying a steely mantle forged in the sweaty confines of the Hell House in Jacksonville decades earlier. Anyway, with a Photo Gallery to come, check out today's Video Of The Day.
Savoy Brown CD Review 30/6/19
"Track six, ‘Neighborhood Blues’ starts slower, before increasing the pace, and the following ‘Selfish World’, a classic slow Blues, is the album’s standout song for me, partly because it is so different from the others. The return to up tempo for the final few tracks culminates in ‘Ain’t Gonna Worry’, which has the sort of boogie rhythm which would have made John Lee Hooker smile."
Read the whole of Gary Smith's Savoy Brown 'City Night' CD review here which was released earlier this month, plus check out today's Track Of Of The Day.
Don Broco Community 30/6/19
Don Broco begin their run of UK festival dates at London's Community Festival today with Kendal Calling, Y Not Festival and Truck Festival to come at the end of next month. They recently released their latest single, ‘Half Man Half God’, the video of which features footage from their phenomenal show at Wembley Arena earlier this year, with the band’s infamous cowboy captured in a darkly lit, ominous room before he launches into the crowd, laughing maniacally amid euphoric chaos. The video comes fresh off the back of their recent US tour with Dance Gavin Dance, which saw them play a huge string of dates across North America throughout March, April and May. Now the band have announced their first ever US headline tour and sees them returning in September for string of 24 dates.
Last Of The Street Survivors 29/6/19
"One word describes this gig - phenomenal! Enough said. Was it nearly the same show as three years ago? Yes but who cares.... Will I get the chance to hear them play again and yell out "Freebird" one more time?.. Who knows?.. If I don't as I probably won't.. then this was the perfect goodbye... God bless 'em. The Skynyrd legacy lives on!!" That was part of our take on Lynyrd Skynyrd the last time we saw them at Hammersmith Apollo (pictured) just over four years ago and tonight they return to London as part of their official farewell tour at Wembley Arena supported by Status Quo.
Hank Marvin Gold 29/6/19
Guitar legend Hank Marvin's album 'Gold', released yesterday, focuses on his solo career, from his eponymous 1969 debut album through to his most recent Top-Ten hit 'Without A Word' in 2017. Hank is joined on this collection by guest appearances from Cliff Richard, Brian May and Duane Eddy, and he duets with Mark Knopfler on re-recordings of two of the classic hits Hank made famous with his group The Shadows. Marvin may have been a Shadow for more than three decades but today he stands under his own spotlight having recorded a sustained series of solo albums. His metallic echoed picking on a red Fender Stratocaster - with generous employment of tremolo arm - is often regarded as the sound that inspired numerous guitar heroes. More than sixty years on from when he started, Hank B. Marvin (Today's Track Of The Day) is assured his place in British music history.
Barleylands Blues Situation 29/6/19
At 2pm today, Blues Situation (Video Of The Day) take to the stage at another Blues At Barleylands, Barleylands Social Club, Barleylands Road, Billericay, Essex CM11 2UF. Blues Situation is a four man premier electronic Blues band from the East Anglia Delta. First formed in 1990 after Luke Arnold's (vocals/harp/guitar) return from New Orleans, they then disbanded in 1995 in Holland. The band was resurrected in 2011 by Luke along with former Mean Red Spiders and Groove Doctors drummer John Butters, with Kelvin Hill on bass and Mark Stuart on guitar, both former members of Built For Comfort. After recording the band's first album - 'Wonderful World' - Craig Fillbrook became the band's permanent guitarist at the end of 2012.
Schattenmann's Epidemie 28/6/19
Last year Schattenmann took the Gothic scene by assault and within two years, singer Frank Herzig had raised the future of Neue Deutsche Härte together with his band mates Luke Shook (bass), Jan Suk (guitars) and Nils Kinzig (drums). Together, they brought the slightly outdated genre, invented by groups like Rammstein and Oomph!!! back to life, and with support tournees with bands like Megahzer, Hamatom and Unzucht, they had everyone talking. With their new album 'Epidemie', due to be released next Friday 5th July, they go further and present an exciting mix out of the harsh heaviness of NDH, featured by brachial Metal riffs and danceable, easy-going hook lines.
Hannah To Release Eponymous Third Album 28/6/19
South Carolinian-born Hannah Wicklund will release her third album 'Hannah Wicklund & The Steppin’ Stones' on Strawberry Moon Records on Friday 13th September. The album was produced by Sadler Vaden, guitarist for Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit and received rave reviews when it was released in the US last year. The album dovetails her nationwide UK Roadstars tour with Piston and Gorilla Riot in October, which stops off at London's Islington O2 Academy 2 on Friday 11th. The 10-track self-released album was recorded in Nashville, and is a fresh take on Wicklund's musical influences drawn from 60's, 70's and 80's guitar-driven Rock. Indeed, her music stands on a bedrock of razor-edged, old-school Rock ’n’ Roll reanimated by a new generation’s urgency, as testified by today's Video Of The Day, the latest single 'Shadowbowboxes and Porcelain Faces', which showcases the emotional toll the darkness of our digital lives takes.
Blues Club Mojo 28/6/19
Today's Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns with another two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat, featuring New Releases, Classic Tracks, UK IBBA Presenters' Picks and much more. Music this week comes from The Mojo Preachers, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Bob Corritore, Big Wolf Band & Zoe Green, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Cash Box Kings, Buddy Guy, Jimmie Vaughan, Keb' Mo', The Who, Kelly's Lot, Connor Selby, Anthony Geraci, Grady Champion, Matt Andersen (pictured), Mighty Mike Schermer, The Beatles, Cara Being Blue, Susan Angeletti Band, Bill Morganfield, Shinbone Star, Jack J Hutchinson, Humble Pie, Sugaray Rayford, The Texas Horns, J.P. Reali and more.
Vote For Final Slot On Rising Stage 27/6/19
There's still time to choose here the final band for Ramblin' Man Fair's Rising Stage. The festival is fast approaching and will be taking place over the weekend of 19th-21st July at Mote Park in Maidstone. The runners and riders include Trident Waters, Stonewire, Piston (today's Track Of The Day), Gallows Circus and Karobela (previously Flawless Carbon, pictured and today's Video Of The Day, who we saw supporting Bernie Marsden at London's 100 Club in January last year. So ramble on over and get voting!
Tribute To Memphis Slim 27/6/19
Tonight's Tribute To Memphis Slim at The Eel Pie Club, The Patch, 67 London Road, Twickenham TW1 3SZ, is a unique thumbs up to one of the Blues giants by Peter Chatman, the son of Memphis Slim, which has also been performed at London's Royal Albert Hall. The band features Eric Ranzoni (pictured) who also plays keys with Mud Morganfield (son of Muddy Waters), plus Pete Pritchard on bass, who has played with, among others, Chuck Berry, Eric Clapton, Jerry Lee Lewis, Alvin Lee and Elvis Presley's original guitarist, Scotty Moore. On guitar is Mal Barclay of The Cadillac Kinks, and on drums, George Hart. Doors open at 8.15pm with music from 9-11pm. WRC members are reminded that they can use their cards to get discounted admission.
Water Rats Chantel Tonight 27/6/19
"Between songs Chantel is bubbly and chatty, even during some of the songs, she is having fun and laughing with the band, but when the need arises and it’s time for the solo, she’s all business, the eyes are closed, head tilted and clearly loses herself completely in the music, letting it flow through her like only the greats can do." That was part of our take on Chantel McGregor at BluesRockFest almost nearly four years ago, and Chantel is back on the road again with her UK tour which takes in among other venues, Ramblin' Man Fair on Sunday 21st July, London's Under The Bridge supporting Focus on Friday 25th October plus an acoustic set at London's Water Rats tonight.
I Guess The Lord Must Be In New York City 26/6/19
The album, 'This Is The Town: A Tribute to Nilsson (Volume 2)', released last week on Royal Potato Family, celebrates the songs of the legendary Harry Nilsson with performances by Cheap Trick, Martha Wainwright, Lauren Ruth Ward and more. The fourteen kindred spirits of Nilsson assembled on the collection are as stellar as they are varied in their art, each underscoring different facets of his songwriting. A follow up to the initial 'This Is The Town' tribute released in 2014, the attention to detail within the fourteen new recordings plus the obvious love for the man who penned them by the artists assembled, exemplifies the timelessness of Nilsson's songs, laying before the listener a roadmap of the many directions to be discovered in the songs of one of Pop's most exquisite artists.
Highway To Hell 26/6/19
HRH’s very own Rock Factor, Highway to Hell, is back with its tenth cycle at The O2 Academy in Sheffield on Friday 30th August! The stage is set for the national competition which has engaged up and coming talent, putting them on the big stage and seeing their record sales grow worldwide. They started with hundreds of prospects which have been voted down to a final eight who will perform in front of a packed crowd in Sheffield who will vote in the winner. The runners and riders include 3Sixty (Video Of The Day) who we introduced you to last year, plus Bad Pollyanna, Delusional Silence, King Kraken, Quiet The Thief, Steal the City, Twister and Straight For The Sun.
Rock On The Ridge Diamonds 26/6/19
On today's Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day there's music from Diamond Head, Black Tree Vultures, Revival Black, Big River, Matt Mitchell & The Coldhearts, At The Sun (pictured), Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown, Empyre, Electric Mary, Piston, GoldWater, Bootyard Bandits, Catfish, Black Whiskey, Hedfuzy, Wolf Jaw, Last In Line, Deadland Ritual, The Black Hands, Pearl Handled Revolver, We Three Kings, Mississippi Riot, Trident Waters and Sweet Crisis.
One Day, One Stage, One Monster Rock Show 25/6/19
Following its monster success last year, it's now just under two months and counting, as Stonedeaf 2019 is set to return on Saturday 24th August at the Newark Showground with headliner Glenn Hughes supported by Inglorious, Wayward Sons, Geoff Tate, Diamond Head, The Amorettes, Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons, Samarkind and Massive! Cited as one of the UK’s friendliest Rock festivals and filling the void of a one day one stage Rock festival so lacking in the UK - bring it on!
Nails In The Coffin 25/6/19
Wisconsin-bred guitarist Jared James Nichols returns to the UK supporting Living Colour on their July 2019 UK Tour alongside Wayward Sons. He will also play a headline show at London's Boston Music Room on Thursday 18th July, and to coincide with Jared’s return, he will self-release a brand-new single – 'Nails In The Coffin' on Friday 28th June on Old Glory Music, which is today's awesome Video Of The Day. Hailed as one of the most exciting new Blues Rock guitarists around, Jared is no stranger to UK audiences. In 2015 he embarked on a full European tour with Lynyrd Skynyrd, followed by an extensive UK tour supporting the legendary Glenn Hughes, where he won over critics with across-the-board rave reviews. He also toured with Stone Broken and opened the Planet Rock Main Stage at Ramblin’ Man Fair in 2017.
Lethbridge Owen At TNMC Tonite 25/6/19
Today's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day is another hour filled with music from Keb' Mo', Ian Siegal, The Reverend Shawn Amos, Eva Carboni, Blues Situation, The BB King Blues Band, Kelly's Lot, Rebecca Downes, Michele D'Amour and the Love Dealers, ElectroBluesSociety and Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse. Add to all of that a couple of tracks from Lethbridge Owen (pictured), ahead of tonight's show at The Tuesday Night Music Club, The Comrades Club, Coulsdon CR5 2NF, and you have one busy hour!
Meat Puppets ULU Live Review 24/6/19
"They are at their best when they play their elongated Space-Rock jams with Kurt’s droning vocals, which has a mesmerising effect on the listener and sends one’s mind into orbit like on the ten minute version of 'Up on the Sun'. They also include the two songs they played on the Nirvana MTV gig - the hypnotic 'Plateau' and 'Lake of Fire' which turns into a dance-inducing lengthy workout."
Read the whole of Ivan De Mello's Meat Puppets + Bleedin' Noses + Munky (pictured), ULU Live London gig review from last Thursday here, plus check out our updated Photo Gallery here courtesy of Ivan, Bruce Biege and Andrew Turner.
Return To Eden 24/6/19
Five years in the making, ‘Return to Eden’ released earlier this month (today's Video Of The Day), marks a new return for Finnish guitarist and composer Timo Tolkki (ex-Stratovarius). Following a period out of the spotlight, Tolkki began writing the third chapter of his Metal opera following ‘The Land Of New Hope’ (2013) and ‘Angels Of The Apocalypse’ (2014), with Tolkki completing this outstanding comeback album with help from Italian producer Aldo Lonobile (Secret Sphere). A convincing and inspired release, Tolkki’s creative drive and vision is more evident than ever. As with the previous chapters in this opera series, a slew of heavyweight guest vocalists handle vocal duties, with featured appearances by renowned Dutch singer Anneke Van Giersbergen (ex-The Gathering), Zak Stevens (ex-Savatage), Todd Michael Hall (Riot V), Mariangela Demurtas (Tristania, Ardours) and Eduard Hovinga (ex-Elegy). Tolkki has travelled a long, hard road to get to where he is today, but is now back and more determined than ever to claim his rightful place in the Metal scene.
Little Miss Moonshine 24/6/19
Davina and the Vagabonds release 'Sugar Drops' on Friday 19th July through Red House Records, their first album for the label, plus they have shared a track from the new album - 'Little Miss Moonshine' - which is today's Track Of The Day. The album marks the first time singer/songwriter/pianist Davina Sowers entered a proper studio to record an album. The Minneapolis-based artist holed up in Nashville’s Compass Sound Studio with producer (and Compass Records co-founder) Garry West, along with her trumpeter, string arranger and husband, Zack Lozier, and a rotating cast of powerhouse players including Todd Phillips (David Grisman, Robbie Fulks) on bass, Doug Lancio (Patty Griffin, John Hiatt, Tom Jones) on guitar and Reese Wynans (Stevie Ray Vaughan, Joe Bonamassa) on Hammond B3.
‘A Celebration Tour’ – King Crimson Review 23/6/19
"In a very succinct conclusion: There’s no band that, in my honest opinion, can give such an intense performance, touch every emotion, are totally irreplaceable, and command adoration night after night (by the same people possibly). Yes, they do need the odd night off as by the third night I spotted the odd misdemeanour, but three nights on the trot, for over six hours in total is a lot to assimilate. Likely to be draining for those that generate this wonderful amount of music, which it was."
Read the whole of Trev Turley's King Crimson three night gig residency review at London's Royal Albert Hall from last week here.
Lordi RecorDead Live DVD 23/6/19
Since their stunning victory at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2006, Lordi's charm, exciting melodies and elaborate and crazy monster costumes, has seen the unconventional Finnish band Rock all over Europe. Indeed, their latest studio album 'Sexorcism' was one of the most successful in the band's history, complemented by new costumes and a wonderful live show that was caught in overwhelming moving pictures. Accordingly, their brand-new DVD 'Recordead Live – Sextourcism In Z7' (see today's Track Of The Day) is due to be released via AFM Records on Friday 26th July. And besides the live cut of the two hour show in Pratteln, Switzerland, the DVD provides a lot of bonus material, including some real rarities.
Goo Goo Pills 23/6/19
Multi-platinum, four-time Grammy-nominated Rock band Goo Goo Dolls have unveiled their new single 'Miracle Pill' via Warner Records, which is today's Video Of The Day. The track will be featured on the band’s brand new album of the same name set to be released this Autumn. Underscored by a memorable piano riff, sweeping guitars, and a swaggering rhythm, the track sees lead singer John Rzeznik cleverly skewer the instant gratification generation with a catchy chorus and a message that goes down easier than anything from the pharmacy. Earlier this month, Goo Goo Dolls kicked off a co-headlining amphitheatre tour alongside Grammy-winning band Train, before it concludes in Mansfield, MA at the Xfinity Center on Saturday 17th August. The band will then embark on several South American tour dates, including a highly anticipated appearance at the iconic Rock in Rio music festival in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday 29th September.
Meat Puppets Photo Gallery 22/6/19
The original line up of the legendary Meat Puppets were back together and playing London's ULU Live on Thursday night, with great support from Bleedin' Noses and Munky. This March the Arizona Alt-Rockers returned with their first new album 'Dusty Notes' since 2013's 'Rat Farm', and their first featuring their original line-up intact since 1995. Though brothers Curt and Cris Kirkwood reunited in 2006 and have toured and recorded together since then, the band’s original drummer, Derrick Bostrom, has not recorded with the band since 1995’s 'No Joke!' Also joined by keyboardist Ron Stabinsky and Curt’s son Elmo on guitar, with a review to come, check out our initial Photo Gallery here.
Teramazing 22/6/19
With 'Are We Soldiers' released yesterday, Dean Wells and Teramaze have not only delivered another excellent piece of modern Progressive Metal, but have also unveiled the official video for the track 'From Saviour To Assassin' (today's Video Of The Day). 'Her Halo', their 2015 album, and the Aussies first for Mascot Records, saw the band take a big step up from previous albums ‘Anhedonia’ (2012) and ‘Esoteric Symbolism’ (2014), and four years later 'AWS' will inevitably build upon the progress achieved by ‘Her Halo’. It’s typical Teramaze – all huge choruses, crashing guitar chords, intricate time changes and swooping melodies – but it’s also a bigger, brighter and even better Teramaze. There’s also change beyond the music, with original vocalist Brett Rerekura returning to the fold, replacing Nathan Peachey, who’d sung on 'Her Halo'. And with plans afoot for European and UK live dates for later in the year, Teramaze are a band that are going to be occupying a lot of your time in 2019 and beyond.
Barleylands Spikedrivers Today 22/6/19
At 2pm today The Spikedrivers (Track Of The Day), consisting of Ben Tyzack - vocals, guitars and harmonica, Constance Redgrave - vocals, bass guitar, washboard and Maurice McElroy - vocals, drums and percussion, take to the stage at another Blues At Barleylands, Barleylands Social Club, Barleylands Road, Billericay, Essex CM11 2UF. One of the most original, innovative and exciting bands around, their combination of gutsy slide guitar, rock-solid bass, infectious grooves and highly distinctive vocals, creates a sound that is uniquely their own. They take you on a journey, from Southern juke-joints and lazy front porches to the huge open spaces of dust bowls and railroad tracks disappearing into the distance.
Tesla Shepherd's Bush Empire Review 21/6/19
"Jeff Keith bears an uncanny resemblance to Steve Tyler whose stagecraft he apes as he stalks the stage reaching out to the front row. Usually the band shares a bill with other Classic Rock bands in larger arena, but the Empire is the right size to allow them to showcase a set-list of 16 songs culled from all of their 6 studio albums. Next they play their famous hit 'Modern Day Cowboy', surprisingly because in the past it has served as an encore for their live sets, before segueing into the strident 'Be a Man', again with the wailing slide-guitar sound."
Read the whole of Ivan De Mello's Tesla Shepherd's Bush Empire gig review from last Sunday here plus check out our Photo Gallery here.
Living On The Run 21/6/19
Swedish Rock sensation H.E.A.T. are releasing their live album ‘Live At Sweden Rock Festival' on Friday 26th July on earMusic. If there is one Hard Rock band you need to see live, H.E.A.T should make the top of your list. Singer Erik Grönwall’s striking charisma paired with the powerful energy created by the band makes every H.E.A.T concert an extraordinary experience. This was also true for the performance at Sweden Rock Festival on 7th June 2018 which followed their highly acclaimed studio album 'Into The Great Unknown' (2017). Their second ever live recording – and for the first time on video – includes all of the band’s remarkable hymns such as 'Living On The Run' (today's Video Of The Day), 'A Shot At Redemption' and 'Bastard Of Society'. Every song from this setlist is as lively and intoxicating as the next, making this a memorable show that every Rock music fan will enjoy.
Best Blues In Town 21/6/19
The Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns today with another two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat featuring New Releases, Classic Tracks, UK IBBA Presenters' Picks and much more. Music this week comes from The Mojo Preachers, Dr. John, Delbert McClinton, Albert Castiglia Band, Benny Turner, Peter Frampton, Kevin Burt, Laurence Jones, Keb' Mo', Bruce Springsteen, Rebecca Downes, Dee Miller Band, Whitey Somers, Red Beans & Rice, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Ben Poole, Anthony Geraci, Keith Howe, Chris Wragg & Greg Copeland, Big Daddy Wilson, Mavis Staples, King Crimson (pictured), Tinsley Ellis, Jontavious Willis, Lethbridge Owen, Lisa Marini, Southern Avenue, Joseph Mojo Morganfield, Grady Champion and more.
Meat Puppets Live Tonight 20/6/19
The original line up of the legendary Meat Puppets (Video Of The Day) are back together and playing London's ULU Live tonight. This March the Arizona Alt-Rockers returned with their first new album 'Dusty Notes' since 2013's 'Rat Farm', and their first featuring their original line-up intact since 1995. Though brothers Curt and Cris Kirkwood reunited in 2006 and have toured and recorded together since then, the band’s original drummer, Derrick Bostrom, has not recorded with the band since 1995’s 'No Joke!' Also joined by keyboardist Ron Stabinsky and Curt’s son Elmo on guitar, the original band first reunited for a performance at the Arizona Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2017.
Dinosaur's On The Road Again 20/6/19
Dinosaur Pile-Up (Track Of The Day) have announced a European and UK tour in support of their critically acclaimed fourth album 'Celebrity Mansions', out now via Parlophone Records. Having just completed European arena shows supporting Muse, an intimate album release tour of the UK and an adrenaline fuelled performance at Download Festival, Dinosaur Pile-Up are wasting no time getting ready to hit the road again at the end of the year. They spend the Summer on a massive North American tour with Shinedown, followed by their first ever headline tour of the USA, and then as the days get colder they’ll be kicking things off in Germany and thrashing their way through Europe, before returning to the UK to finish the tour with a special show at London’s very own Scala on Wednesday 11th December. Dinosaur Pile-Up are ruffling feathers and breaking the mould with their most Punk Rock and in-your-face material to date, and with 'Celebrity Mansions' they’re proving how vital and pivotal British Rock music is today.
21st Century Schizoid Albert 20/6/19
King Crimson (Video Of The Day) continue to celebrate their 50th Anniversary with the last of three consecutive shows at London's Royal Albert Hall tonight. Often acclaimed as one of the best live bands in the world, King Crimson has constantly re-invented itself throughout its existence. Having reformed in 2014 the current seven-piece line-up features Robert Fripp (guitar), Mel Collins (saxophones and flute), Tony Levin (bass, stick and backing vocals), Jakko Jakszyk (guitar and vocals) and drummers Gavin Harrison, Pat Mastelotto and Jeremy Stacey - who doubles on keyboards. Each show has been around three hours long, with a setlist newly written each day by Fripp, accessing a large number of historic pieces which have never previously been performed live, as well as old favourites plus their own newly written material.
Royal Court Of The Crimson King 19/6/19
King Crimson (Video Of The Day) celebrated their 50th Anniversary last night with the first of three consecutive shows at London's Royal Albert Hall. Often acclaimed as one of the best live bands in the world, King Crimson has constantly re-invented itself throughout its existence. Having reformed in 2014 the current seven-piece line-up features Robert Fripp (guitar), Mel Collins (saxophones and flute), Tony Levin (bass, stick and backing vocals), Jakko Jakszyk (guitar and vocals) and drummers Gavin Harrison, Pat Mastelotto and Jeremy Stacey - who doubles on keyboards. Each show is around three hours long, with a setlist newly written each day by Fripp, accessing a large number of historic pieces which have never previously been performed live, as well as old favourites plus their own newly written material.
Skid Row UK Tour 19/6/19
Multi-platinum selling band Skid Row will embark on a full UK tour this year, which will see the New Jersey Rockers playing shows across the land, starting at Scotland's Winterstorm Fest on Friday 29th November and ending at The Mill, Birmingham on Sunday 8th December. Skid Row started in 1986 when a group of New Jersey kids, armed with their Punk and Metal attitude, and a collection of riff-heavy, high-octane songs, set out to conquer the world, one concert at a time. This determined and focused approach proved to be an unquestionable success, as the group went on to clock up numerous Top Ten singles, Gold and multi-Platinum selling albums and a Number 1 on the Billboard albums chart. Special guests on various nights of the tour will be The Quireboys, Hollowstar, Matt Mitchell & The Cold Hearts and Crashdiet.
MoLD Horrors 19/6/19
Vital new four-piece Swedish Rock phenomenon MoLD have signed to the GMR Music record label to release their outstanding debut album 'Horrors’ on Friday 26th July via Plastic Head Distribution, and the first single to be taken from their album, ‘Breaking Bones', is today's Track Of The Day. MoLD’s raw, melodic, irresistibly manic sonic style unequivocally reflects the Blues created by the effects of cold and darkness on the human psyche during harsh northern Scandinavian winters. Along with the shared desire to play thunderous Rock ’n’ Roll, they first came to life, kickin’ and screamin’, when distinctive vocalist/guitarist Johan Liljeberg and guitarist Mattias Ekstig, who had originally met as teenagers, (bonded by a mutual love of Heavy Metal), felt the need to play music again after a few years in the wilderness. They soon enrolled talented drummer Per-Ake Lithner (P-A), (who had played with Johan in another band - The Meek - a few years earlier, before eventually finalising the line-up when groove-master bassist Peter Lundgren came on board.
Tesla Photo Gallery 18/6/19
With a review to come, check out today both our Photo Gallery here plus another Video Of The Day of Northern California band Tesla, who turned back the years on Sunday night when they played London's Shepherd's Bush Empire. With great support from Wayward Sons and Flashfires, the band featuring Brian Wheat - bass, Frank Hannon - guitar, Jeff Keith - vocals, Troy Luccketta - drums and Dave Rude - guitar, truly Rocked the joint with new material from their latest album 'Shock', plus fan favourites 'Modern Day Cowboy', 'Miles Away' and 'Love Song'. Awesome.
Court Of The Crimson King 18/6/19
"This was an incredible concert played with great precision and passion, but for me this felt like very cerebral music for the head rather than something for my heart – but then again I do not possess that life-long emotional ‘fan’ connection so evident in so many ‘Krim’ worshippers present. However, there can be no denying the exceptional musical abilities and timing demonstrated in songs that demand split-second reactions to crossover rhythms, key changes and sudden u-turns mid-number that made the incredibly difficult seem easy. This is high-end musicianship that would challenge the most accomplished performers from any genre." That was part of our take on King Crimson at Hackney Empire in September 2015, and tonight the Progressive Rock group return to London for the first of three consecutive nights at London's Royal Albert Hall.
Big Wolf & Zoe Green At TNMC Tonite 18/6/19
Today's Track Of The Day is another Blues On The Radio, an hour filled with music from Jimmie Vaughan, Jack J Hutchinson, R.K.Turner, Goofa Dust, Meg Williams, Catfish, Railroad Band, Spikedrivers, Jon Gindick, Laurence Jones, Lethbridge Owen, The Head Hunters Blues Band and, of course, ahead of their show tonight at The Tuesday Night Music Club, The Comrades Club, Coulsdon CR5 2NF, Big Wolf Band featuring Zoe Green.
Modern Day Cowboys Rock London 17/6/19
Two days after they appeared at Download and eleven years after we last saw them at Holland's Boerderij in Zoetermeer, Northern California band Tesla turned back the years last night when they played London's Shepherd's Bush Empire with support from Wayward Sons and Flash Fires. As well as playing new material from their latest album 'Shock', Brian Wheat - bass, Frank Hannon - guitar, Jeff Keith - vocals, Troy Luccketta - drums and Dave Rude - guitar, mixed it up with fan favourites 'Modern Day Cowboy', 'Miles Away' and 'Love Song'. Anyway, with a review and more photos to come, check out today's Video Of The Day.
The War We Miss? 17/6/19
With 'The War We Miss?', due to be released on Friday 28th June, Jacob's Fall have written one of the most astounding, most tangent and most entrancing German Rock albums of the recent past. What’s so mental about all of this is that this is actually a debut record. Yet, the roots of Jacob’s Fall, consisting of Christian Faust - vocals, guitar, Jens Pietzonka - guitar, additional vocals, Daniel Pabst - bass and René Jauernik - drums, go way deeper than their official birth in 2016. Some of the members were playing in nineties Dark Rock hopefuls My Insanity and toured Europe alongside acts like Lacuna Coil, Samael or Therion. With songs crafted on an international top-notch level, with huge refrains and intoxicating melodies, the four-piece also left nothing to chance when it comes to the right sound, with their soaring, atmospheric Rock being elegiac, thoughtful and very serious.
Live On Death Road 17/6/19
Jorn Lande celebrated his 50th birthday in 2018 with the release of a 12 album box set and some live shows that featured the most diverse setlists of his career and presented the true and ultimate legacy of himself as an artist and band leader. His headlining set at the Frontiers Rock Festival in Milan, Italy, was recorded in its full glory, and this epic concert performance 'Live On Death Road' (see today's Track Of The Day) was released last Friday. One of the most prolific vocalists of the modern Metal era, Jorn’s powerful vocal talent has earned him status as one of the last pioneers of true classic Hard Rock and Heavy Metal. Aside from his main band, Jorn, Lande has fronted acts including Ark, Beyond Twilight and Masterplan, while he has also participated on projects such as the Nostradamus and Dracula Rock Operas, the Allen/Lande albums with Symphony X vocalist Russell Allen, plus the Ayreon and Avantasia projects.
Live At Chelsea Review 16/6/19
"The hits keep coming, although the Toto composed music form the film 'Dune', and a very alternative version of the Beatles 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' keeps things fresh. Percussionist Lenny Castro, a long term member of the band, gives us a master class of every type of percussion from bongos to gongs, timpanis and tom-toms. And very well received it was but it's the closing song 'Africa' that unsurprisingly get the best response. Everyone belts out the words of the 1982 classic. "I bless the rains down in Africa" we sing - how ironic. I curse the Chelsea rain."
Read the whole of Mother's Toto and The Darkness Live At Chelsea Royal Hospital gig review from Thursday here plus check out our Photo Gallery here.
Tesla Comin Atcha Tonite! 16/6/19
Time to Rock Out big time on a Sunday! The first time we saw Northern California band Tesla was opening the Arrow Rock Festival in Biddinghuizen in June 2007 and again in Holland a year later in Zoetermeer. Anyway, eleven years down the line they are playing London's Shepherd's Bush Empire tonight with support from Wayward Sons (Track Of The Day) and Flash Fires. Way back in 1987, Def Leppard and Tesla did a historic 'in the round' show that was the first time a Rock concert was done in the centre of an arena - an era when Def Leppard’s 'Hysteria' album was breaking platinum status and Tesla's first album 'Mechanical Resonance' was turning heads on MTV.
Danny's Means Of Escape 16/6/19
Danny Bryant (Video Of The Day), the critically acclaimed British Blues Rock guitarist, releases his eleventh studio album, 'Means of Escape' by Jazzhaus Records on Friday 20th September. Making his debut as a producer, the guitarist assembled a truly stellar collection of world class personnel to help him to craft an album that he has been waiting his whole career to create. Engineered by Grammy Award-winning engineer Ian Dowling (Adele, KT Tunstall) and recorded at Lincolnshire's famed Chapel Studios, 'Means of Escape' features nine tracks of blistering Blues Rock of the highest calibre, and to support its release, Danny is out on the road in October touring the UK, including a launch gig at London's Dingwalls on Friday 20th September.
Live At Chelsea Photo Gallery 15/6/19
With a review to come, today check out our Photo Gallery here of Toto and The Darkness (Video Of The Day) from the latest Live At Chelsea Concert Series gig, which is celebrating its 5th year of bringing live music to the spectacular outdoor grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, home of the Chelsea Pensioners. With their current line-up including Joseph Williams (lead vocals), Steve Porcaro (keyboards) and Steve Lukather (guitars, vocals), they performed their incredible legacy of unparalleled hits including 'Africa', 'Hold The Line' and 'Rosanna'. Meanwhile, with their forthcoming album 'Easter Is Cancelled' due to be released on Friday 4th October via Cooking Vinyl, The Darkness successfully managed to prick the pompous and kick the arses of those who seek to destroy us, as the four maestros thrusted their musical opus into the ear canals of those brave enough to battle the elements.
Blues At Barleylands By George 15/6/19
At 2pm today the Papa George Band (Track Of The Day), including Pete Stroud & Pete J Stroud, take to the stage at Blues At Barleylands, Barleylands Social Club, Barleylands Road, Billericay, Essex CM11 2UF. The internationally acclaimed London Bluesman is admired on the UK Blues circuit as an extremely well respected musician. Since the mid-70s Papa George has forged a reputation as one of the top guitarists and vocalists, captivating audiences playing Fender Stratocaster, or bottleneck Blues-style on Amistar and National Steel Guitars For over 30 years of extensive live performances, George continues to play and sing the Blues with true passion, heart and soul.
Skindred Spirit 15/6/19
Skindred not only play the Download Festival Main Stage at 3.30pm today, but are also launching their own beer, a specially brewed Jamaican Stout with Box Social Brewing called 'Union Black' after the bands cult album. The Ragga Metallers are the kind of band you just have to go and see live, raising the roof in any venue they play. Their heady, unique fusion of music styles and vibrant creativity, alongside their aim of bringing people of all backgrounds together, and achievements doing so, drew Ross Holland (Head Brewer of Box Social Brewing) to want to work with this iconic band. The moniker they hit on was ‘Union Black’ after Skindred’s fourth album: a complex, unique beer, that unites both rich roasted bitter flavours, with the sweetness of vanilla and the spice of Jamaica!
Toto Score At Chelsea 14/6/19
Last night, Toto, with support from The Darkness, helped us forget about the terrible weather, at the latest Live At Chelsea Concert Series event, which is celebrating its 5th year of bringing live music to the spectacular outdoor grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, home of the Chelsea Pensioners. With their current line-up of Joseph Williams (lead vocals), Steve Porcaro (keyboards) and Steve Lukather (guitars, vocals), they performed their incredible legacy of unparalleled hits including 'Africa', 'Hold The Line' and 'Rosanna'. Meanwhile, with their forthcoming album 'Easter Is Cancelled' due to be released on Friday 4th October via Cooking Vinyl, The Darkness successfully managed to prick the pompous and kick the arses of those who seek to destroy us, as the four maestros thrusted their musical opus into the ear canals of those brave enough to battle the early elements. With a review and more pics to come, check out today's Video Of The Day.
Water Rats Circu5 Tonite 14/6/19
Tonight, Circu5 – the project of multi-instrumentalist Steve Tilling (TC&I) – is performing for the first time with Mellotronanism - under the banner of 'A Night of Modern Accessible Prog Rock' at The Water Rats in London. Joining Steve are Mark Kilminster (ex-Tin Spirits) on bass and vocals, drummer Greg Pringle (Roger Daltrey Band) and Matt Backer (Julian Lennon) on guitar and vocals. Circu5 (pronounced 'circa five') released their globally acclaimed debut album in September 2017 with Steve performing almost all instrumental and vocal duties, with guest spots from musicians including Dave Gregory (Big Big Train, XTC) and Johnny Warman.
Blues Club Preachers 14/6/19
The Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns to Friday with another two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat, featuring New Releases, Classic Tracks, UK IBBA Presenters' Picks and much more. Music this week comes from The Mojo Preachers, Christone "Kingfish" Ingram, Stevie Ray Vaughan, The Texas Horns, Rebecca Downes, Cash Box Kings, Rory Gallagher, Keith Thompson, Catfish, Tower of Power, Kelly's Lot, John Mayall, Si Cranstoun, RHR Redfern, Hutchinson & Ross, Bad Influence, Mike Goudreau, JJ Cale, Bruce Springsteen, Mike Farris, Willie Jackson & the Tybee Blues Band, Jumping Matt and his Combo, The Marcus King Band (pictured), The BB King Blues Band Featuring "The Voice" Michael Lee, Michele D'Amour and the Love Dealers, Jon Gindick, Reese Wynans and more.
Steve Hillage Shepherd's Bush Review 13/6/19
"For the second encore we got 'Not Fade Away', a cover of the 1957 Buddy Holly song from the 1977 'Motivation Radio' album. Once again this song was given the full on Hillage Psychedelic treatment! A great vehicle for some tasty improvisation and extended guitar noodling! We were also treated to some tantalising excerpts from the glorious and glittering Gong track 'I Never Glid Before', originally from the 1973 'Angel's Egg' album. What a spectacular climax to a fantastic show. It is fair to say Steve Hillage is back and firing on all cylinders!"
Read the whole of Steven C. Gilbert's Steve Hillage Band London Shepherd's Bush Empire gig review from last Saturday here plus check out today's Video Of The Day.
Toto Play Chelsea Tonight 13/6/19
Toto, supported by The Darkness, are performing tonight at the Live At Chelsea Concert Series, which is celebrating its 5th year of bringing live music to the spectacular outdoor grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, home of the Chelsea Pensioners. Currently celebrating 40 years since the release of their debut album, Toto are one of the worlds foremost Rock bands. With their current line-up of Joseph Williams (lead vocals), Steve Porcaro (keyboards) and Steve Lukather (guitars, vocals), the group are celebrating an incredible legacy of unparalleled hits and accolades. With ubiquitous hits including 'Africa', 'Hold The Line', and 'Rosanna', the band have won an incredible 6 Grammy Awards, including Best Record in 1983. Inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame in 2009, Toto continue to sell out huge shows to audiences the world over.
Big Wolf Band Be Free 13/6/19
'Be Free', due to be released on Thursday 27th June, is an exciting album that sees two well established artists on the Rock and Blues scene work together for the first time to create one powerhouse of an album. Big Wolf Band, led by Jonathan Earp, and Zoe Green of the Zoe Green Band, had planned to work together on a project for a few years now and Jon's second album 'Be Free' seemed the perfect opportunity. After recording the second cut 'Be Free', which became the title track, they all knew that Zoe would be singing every song on the album. After working so well in the studio together they decided to take it on the road and Big Wolf Band, featuring Zoe Green (today's Track Of The Day) was born! All songs on 'Be Free' are written by Jon and many are inspired by his own experience of life. This promises to be a unique collaboration between two major forces along with their talented band, Mick Jeynes (bass), Paul Brambani (keys) and Tim Jones (drums). They are already wowing audiences all over the country and have UK and European dates booked into 2020, with more to be announced.
Supersonic Blues Machine CD Review 12/6/19
"Playing with SBM seems to bring out the best in their guest artists and Kris Barras is in fine voice throughout, especially on the anthemic ‘Remedy’ and his guitar playing, beautifully fluid, with a fatter tone than on his own gigs. Once Billy G joins proceedings we get ‘La Grange’ and ‘Running Whiskey’ etc. and the party continues like an extended encore. There’s not a foot put wrong on this collection and it’s going to be remembered as one of the stand out live albums of the period. Brilliant stuff!"
Read the whole of Simon Green's Supersonic Blues Machine's 'Road Chronicles: Live' CD review here which is due to be released on Friday 12th July, plus check out our Video Of The Day.
Symphony Of Pain Tonight 12/6/19
Tonight, London based Rockers Symphony Of Pain showcase their brand new album 'Virology' live in their hometown at the Fiddler’s Elbow, 1 Malden Road, Belsize Park, London NW5. 'Virology' was self-released on Friday 29th March, with the album receiving a whopping 10/10 review from Powerplay magazine. The band will be supporting Irish Rockers Fornoth, who recently competed in the Irish leg of Bloodstock ‘Metal 2 The Masses’ to critical acclaim. SOP will be on stage around 8.15pm, and the band consisting of Threshold drummer Johanne James, alongside main songwriters Tracie Law and Pam Chowhan, will be featuring as much of the album as possible, but today's Track Of The Day ‘Futile’ will definitely be one of the highlights!
Man With A Mission Tonight 12/6/19
Japanese superstars Man With A Mission recently released their new EP 'Remember Me' in advance of tonight's intimate headline show at London’s iconic 100 Club, a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with the wolf collective before their appearance at the Download Festival this Friday. Across four huge tracks, the band build on the success of last year’s hugely acclaimed international debut album 'Chasing The Horizon', their fifth in their native Japan, but their first brand new album to be released worldwide which has received widespread critical acclaim. A stadium conquering band in their home country, MWAM have also sold out large shows across the UK, Europe, Russia and Asia on their latest tour in support of Chasing the Horizon. In London they have also played sold out headline shows at both ULU and The Dome in less than a year.
Styx London Palladium Review 11/6/19
"Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)' provides an opportunity to bring on the original bassist Charles Panozzo, who only plays on occasional tracks (yes that’s right two leads and two bassists on stage now – told you everything they do is epic). We’re reminded of the pedigree of the bassist Ricky Phillips, who had played with The Babys, Bad English and Coverdale/Page, before they break into the upbeat 'Rockin’ the Paradise'. Then came the soaring dual lead guitars on the track 'Suite Madame Blue', whose overall effect was like witnessing one of those Rock super-groups of yore and was this reviewer’s pick of the evening and a fitting end to part one."
Read the whole of Ivan De Mello's Styx London Palladium gig review from last Tuesday here plus check out today's Video Of The Day.
Wer Lässt Die Sau Raus?! 11/6/19
J.B.O. - one of the most popular cult groups in Germany, celebrates its 30th birthday this Summer - and accordingly the fun Rockers release their 13th studio album 'Wer Lässt Die Sau Raus?!' on Friday 28th June. The comedy Metal of the James Blast Orchestra have been serving their mischievous and profound humour for almost three decades and made the musical landscape way more colourful! Consequently their latest album is a party album with the band pulling out all the stops and delivering a bunch of hits including The Baha Men classic 'Who Let The Dogs Out' and MC Hammer's 'You Can’t Touch This'.
Head Hunters At TNMC Tonite 11/6/19
Today's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day is an hour filled with music from Christone "Kingfish" Ingram, Dr. John, Keith Thompson, When Rivers Meet, The Mojo Preachers, Dave Arcari, Catfish, Big Wolf Band, Chris Wragg & Greg Copeland, Aaron Burton, ElectroBluesSociety, Rebecca Downes (pictured) and The Head Hunters Blues Band, ahead of their show tonight at The Tuesday Night Music Club, The Comrades Club, Coulsdon CR5 2NF.
Rockin' The Blues Gig Review 10/6/19
"As the band disappear into the night, Paul Anthony reappears to announce what is to be the finale, and highlight, of the evening. Reappearing with a cast of thousands in support are Kris, Walter and Jonny to jam out together and end the tour with a bang. Five guitarists, two drummers two keyboard players, a bassist and a harmonics player all conspire to provide the sort of Blues jam that true fans can only dream about."
Read the whole of Mother's Rockin' The Blues gig review showcasing Walter Trout, Jonny Lang and Kris Barras at London's Kentish Town Forum from last Tuesday here.
Hollis Brown Ozone Park 10/6/19
'Ozone Park' is the new album from Queens NY band Hollis Brown, out now on Cool Green Recordings. Formed by singer-guitarist Mike Montali and lead guitarist Jonathan Bonilla, the hard-working Rock 'n' Roll band, along with keyboardist Adam Bock and drummer Andrew Zehnal, has been releasing music since 2013. The 10 album tracks were recorded at Unity Gain Studios in Fort Meyers, FL and produced with Adam Landry (Deer Tick, Rayland Baxter, Nikki Lane, Vanessa Carlton). As well as today's Video Of The Day of 'Do Me Right', the songs weave together in a cohesive, dynamically exciting ride that ranges from the soulful buoyancy of 'Blood From a Stone' and 'Stubborn Man to the ringing Americana guitars of 'She Don't Love Me Now', the funky flavour of 'Go For It' and the fuzzy Hard Rock of 'Bad Mistakes'. Highly recommended for fans of The War On Drugs, Courtney Barnett, Kurt Vile and The Decemberists.
Wild Rock On The Ridge 10/6/19
On today's latest Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day there's music from The Wild, Mason Hill (pictured), Scott Stapp, Bootyard Bandits, The Lazys, Texas Hippie Coalition, Black Oak County, Empyre, Hedfuzy, Wolf Jaw, Budgie, Jethro Tull, Black Whiskey, Trident Waters, The Hollywood Vampires, Freedom Hawk, The Gasoline Gypsies, Small Town Titans, Samarkind, Preacher Stone and on their Introducing Stage, two in a row from Victim Of Circumstance.
Irontown Diehards Ride 9/6/19
Supreme Belfast Hard Rock group The Irontown Diehards, an organic outfit whose potent brew of heavy blood boiling riffs, outstanding anthemic choruses and electrifying live shows has already captivated a sizeable following, have lined up the release on Friday 28th June of their brand new single, ‘Ride’, which is today's Video Of The Day. ‘Ride’, is the first single to be taken from their sophomore album ‘Linchpin’, set for release on Friday 6th September, and is a blistering, groove-laden, melody drenched, unpretentious introduction to the quartet’s upcoming milestone LP. Four incredibly talented musicians, namely Phil Dixon - vocals, Andrew Baxter - guitars, Mark McCallion - bass and Eamon Lenehan - drums, they have all previously played in top Northern Ireland Rock and Metal bands and have concocted their own unique style and Blues-tinged original sound. An undeniably original band breaking out of the conventional Rock/Metal aesthetic, they were formed in 2014 by Dixon and Baxter, and released their debut self-titled album in May 2016 to critical acclaim.
Kryptos Afterburner 9/6/19
Celebrating the band's twenty-year anniversary, the spearhead of the Indian Metal Revolution, four-piece Kryptos, release their ferocious fifth album 'Afterburner' on Friday 21st June, featuring razor sharp riffs, screaming solos and a raging twin guitar attack, but still remain true to their underground roots, shaping their very own Kryptos style, somewhere between hotshot old school Heavy Metal and a precise high-speed thrashing twist, flooring the gas pedal and putting Indian Metal on the map once and for all! Their first three albums 'Spiral Ascent' (2004), 'The Ark Of Gemini' (2008) and 'The Coils Of Apollyon' (2012) were highly acclaimed by the press, but were kept under the radar of the masses until their 2016 killer album 'Burn Up The Night' changed the band's dark horse status. Kryptos will hit European shores once again in the summer of 2019 to bring their blistering brand of 80’s inspired Heavy Metal to the masses.
Sunday Blues Club 9/6/19
Again a bit later than usual, but The Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns today with another two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat, featuring New Releases, Classic Tracks, UK IBBA Presenters' Picks and much more. Music this week comes from The Mojo Preachers, Albert Castiglia Band, Jimmie Vaughan, Chris Bevington, Catfish, The Lee Boys, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Mike Goudreau, Bad Influence, Lucas Haneman & The Lucas Haneman Express, Emma Wilson, Alexis P Suter Band, Kelly's Lot, Reloaded Norway, JJ Cale, Sugaray Rayford, Michele D'Amour and the Love Dealers, Watermelon Slim, Melissa Etheridge (pictured), The Eagles, Meg Williams, Grady Champion, Kerry Kearney, The Brent Hutchinson Band, Jontavious Willis, Chris Rea, Railroad, Peter Ward and more.
Yonaka Heaven Gig Review 8/6/19
"Warning! Do not listen to any of the following bands if you have any disposition to waking up in the middle of the night humming along to catchy little riffs and melodies that just won’t go away. I spent last Thursday night with three bands who did nothing but bombard my little brain with ear worms that have wrecked my every waking and sleeping moment since! Am I complaining? No of course not! I even paid good money for the privilege of becoming a virtual insomniac!"
Read the whole of Chris Bourlet's Yonaka + tiLLie + The Ninth Wave gig review at London's Heaven from Thursday 30th May here, plus check out our Video Of The Day.
Long Live Vinyl 8/6/19
As part of this year’s Vinyl Week, from today Saturday 8th June to Monday 17th June, HMV have announced the third run of exclusive colour pressings which will be available in store from Saturday 16th June. This reveal sees some truly iconic albums receiving a fresh new look, with pink pressings of Fairport Convention's 'Leige and Lief' and blue pressings of Chris Rea’s chart topping 'Road To Hell' both being confirmed. Music from two heavyweights of British and Irish music will also be re-released, with Suede’s 'Dog Man Star' being pressed on olive green vinyl and The Pogues’ 'Very Best Of' on orange vinyl (pictured). And for those sci-fi buffs, the Doctor Who – 'Infamy Of The Zaross: The Tenth Doctor Adventures' soundtrack will also be available on yellow vinyl from Saturday 16th June for the first time.
Saturday Blues On The Radio 8/6/19
A bit later than usual, but yet another Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day today - with music from Catfish (pictured), The BB King Blues Band, Jimmie Vaughan, When Rivers Meet, Ben Hemming, Burton Gaar, J.P. Reali, The Head Hunters Blues Band, Danielle Nicole, Sunjay, Railroad, R.K. Turner and Lightnin' Willie.
Alpha La Fontaines 7/6/19
The LaFontaines are just around the corner from the release of their new album, 'Junior', which will be out on Friday 14th June via So Recordings. To whet your appetites further, the band have released the brand new single ‘Alpha’ along with a seamless ‘one take’ video recorded at Park Lane Studios, which is today's Video Of The Day. Proving themselves one of the most exciting bands to emerge from Scotland in recent years, The LaFontaines deliver a unique sound that fuses the guitar swagger of Kasabian, the edgy hip-hop delivery of The Streets and the electronic-pop undertones of Twenty One Pilots to create a style that pushes the boundaries of Rock. The band also embark on a UK headline tour in June to support the release of the new album, including London's Camden Assembly on Wednesday 19th June.
John Verity Rolling Stoned Tonight 6/6/19
John Verity (Video Of The Day) is playing The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU tonight. A man and musician who is blue to his soul, Verity is one of the most consistent performers on the British Blues Rock circuit for many years, since the early days opening for Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin in the US and then his time as frontman with Argent. Joining John for this performance will be Liam James Gray on drums and bass supremo Roger Inniss (Blues Caravan, Laurence Jones, Elkie Brooks). Opening for John will be his very special guest Beki Brindle, New York Blues Hall of Fame Inductee. Meanwhile, The Rollin' Stoned - aka 'The Best Rock'n'Roll Tribute Band in The World' - are also playing tonight at The Eel Pie Club, The Patch, 67 London Road, Twickenham TW1 3SZ, with their magnificent Rolling Stones show for two hours of nostalgia playing the best of 1964-1969 Doors open at 8.15pm with music from 9-11pm. WRC members are reminded that they can use their cards to get discounted admission.
Eddie Martin Midnight Special Tonight 5/6/19
Singer song-writer, multi instrumentalist, one-man-band, Big Band, Band leader, composer, producer and arranger, Eddie Martin (Video Of The Day), is playing The Midnight Special Blues Club, The Old Ford, Ash Vale, Aldershot GU12 5QA, tonight. Eddie is one of the most versatile, creative and just plain hard-working musicians around, taking his music to 35 countries through over 30 years of touring. With 17 acclaimed original albums and a string of National and International Awards and Nominations (including Best Solo Artist in 2019 European Blues Awards) he has become known as “The Ambassador of British Blues”.
Styx Rockin' The Blues Tonight 4/6/19
Styx bring their only UK show to the prestigious London Palladium tonight for An Evening Of Styx. They will perform music to celebrate their hugely successful 47-year career, including tracks from their most recent studio album 'The Mission'. The band have been a staple of Rock radio playlists throughout this time, with songs including 'Crystal Ball', 'Come Sail Away', 'Lorelei', 'Blue Collar Man', 'Renegade', 'The Grand Illusion', 'Too Much Time On My Hands' and 'Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)'. Meanwhile, following a hugely successful 2018 tour, the Mascot Label Group/Provogue Rockin’ The Blues tour returns in 2019 with an incredible line-up featuring Blues-Rock royalty Walter Trout (Video Of The Day), the platinum selling international star Jonny Lang and the fast-rising Blues-Rock hero Kris Barras.
Rory Gallagher - Blues CD Review 3/6/19
"‘Born Under A Bad Sign’, with Jack Bruce, comes from a 1991 “Rockpalast” show for German TV, while ‘You Upset Me’ is an apparently unrehearsed guest appearance with Albert King from 1975. The last music we hear is another guest solo on ‘Comin’ Home Baby’ from a 1989 concert with Chris Barber’s band; a short track, featuring Rory talking about the Blues, rounds off the three disc set. Given that much of the content is previously unreleased, this set, which retails at just under £20, represents excellent value for anyone who loves Rory’s playing. Indeed, the fact that it is separated into electric, acoustic and live discs might also make it a perfect introduction for anyone not yet familiar with the man and his music."
Read the whole of Gary Smith's 'Rory Gallagher - Blues' CD review here which was released last Friday, plus check out our Video Of The Day.
Vanden Plas Epic Works 3/6/19
Frontiers Music Srl release ‘The Epic Works 1991-2015’ on Friday 12th July, a stunning boxset collection from Vanden Plas, the German masters of Progressive Metal. It contains eight studio albums, an EP, a live recording and a bonus disc entitled ‘Bonus Treasures’ that consists of unreleased, bonus, rare and demo tracks. For over two decades, Vanden Plas have been flag bearers for intelligent, intense, Progressive Metal. From their debut album, ‘Colour Temple’, right up to the recent saga, ‘Chronicles Of The Immortals’, (which saw them collaborate with bestselling author Wolfgang Hohlbein), the band, consisting of Andy Kuntz – vocals, Stephan Lill - guitar, Andreas Lill – drums, Günter Werno – keyboards and Torsten Reichert - bass, have consistently wowed the Progressive Metal world with their amazing music. This set is an unmissable occasion to get to know in-depth the abilities and art of one of Progressive Metal’s greatest bands.
Captain's Sixteen 3/6/19
With a slightly reduced service on our website this week, the Captain's Video Rock Show returns our Track Of The Week. His mission: to get Rock music back into mainstream music again with wall to wall Rock videos from new and established bands. Episode 16 includes Nordic Union, Chris Green, Chaos Magic, Tokyo Motor Fist (pictured) and Jorn.
Merging Flare's Revolt Regime 2/6/19
Finnish Melodic Heavy Metal band Merging Flare was founded by the very same members of its predecessor band Disease. After a few demos and split singles (made between 2001 and 2007), the group was ready to sign their first record deal in 2009. They started working on material in 2010 and released ‘Reverence’ a year later. Fast forward eight years later and fans of tasteful, Melodic Heavy Metal, can now look forward to the return of the band come Friday 14th June with their new album ‘Revolt Regime’. And it will certainly have been well worth the wait, as Merging Flare have created a classic Heavy Metal album which reminds of Judas Priest, Accept, Running Wild, Helloween and Gamma Ray, with that typical Nordic flavor added (think of Tarot).
Morse Code 2/6/19
‘Jesus Christ The Exorcist’ (see Video Of The Day), due to be released on Friday 14th June, is a monumental project in the already impressive discography of the American singer, multi-instrumentalist, bandleader and Progressive Rock composer Neal Morse. A decade in the making, this Prog Rock Musical was written and produced by Morse and features an all-star cast of vocalists and musicians. The double album set contains two hours of music that encompasses the entire musical spectrum that Morse is known for, while lyrically it tells the Story of Stories. With a cast of amazing vocalists and musicians such as Ted Leonard, Eric Gillette, Nick D’Virgilio, Randy George, Bill Hubauer, Matt Smith, Jake Livgren and more, this Prog Rock extravaganza is a landmark event that will leave its mark on every listener. He who has ears to hear … let him hear!
Keeping Up With The Jones Boy 2/6/19
Laurence Jones is back and is ready to tear up the UK and Europe with new self-titled album Laurence Jones Band. The accomplished new album, recorded in Miami, and produced by Gregory Elias is set for release on Friday 27th September on Top Stop Music via Sony. The first single from the album – 'I’m Waiting' – is today's Track Of The Day and was released last Friday. Laurence's band is comprised of Laurence (vocals and guitar), Phil Wilson (drums), Bennett Holland (keyboard) and Greg Smith (bass), and they will take the album on tour in November 2019 including London's Oslo on Saturday 23rd. Jones has been writing songs and releasing albums since 2012. During this time, the Blues Rock troubadour has been busy fine-tuning his sound playing to packed house across Europe, paving the way for a new generation of Blues Rock performers, guitarists and singer songwriters.
Mule Train Stops Off At Forum Tonight 1/6/19
Gov’t Mule continue their UK tour at London's Forum in Kentish Town tonight. Celebrating 25 years being a band, they've returned to the Mascot Label Group/Provogue Records to release their new live album 'Bring On The Music - Live at the Capitol Theatre', due out on Friday 28th June, which was recorded during two days in April last year at the famed Port Chester, NY venue. No two Gov't Mule shows are alike, as the band draws on more than 300 songs in their repertoire (and often a host of special guests) to create a unique experience each and every time. Warren Haynes (vocals, guitar), Matt Abts (drums), Danny Louis (keyboards, guitar and backing vocals) and Jorgen Carlsson (bass) – have galvanised a global fan base with their improvisational virtuosity, leading them to be recognised as one of the most timeless and revered bands in the world.
Piston Video Of The Day 1/6/19
Last Friday, British five-piece Rock ‘n’ Roll engine Piston released their second single ‘Rainmaker’ (today's Video Of The Day) from their long awaited self-titled debut album due out on Friday 13th September. Consisting of four members from the Midlands, greased with a vocal roar from the South, the band produce a fired up no-nonsense sound to be reckoned with! Piston have already appeared with various well-respected acts in the industry such as The Temperance Movement and Sebastian Bach and have filled venues throughout the UK with their raw sound and energetic performances. ‘Rainmaker’ is a thunderstorm of slow dirty riffs, kept up to pace with the constant thumping from the rhythm section and preacher style vocals, and is the very essence of rolling thunder forced down the ear drums. To support the release of their debut album, Piston will also embark on a co-headline tour with Collateral – the Stand Up, Shout It Out! Tour – in September.
June WRC Bulletin Out Today 1/6/19
As well as Wrinklystock 8, today's June 2019 WRC Bulletin looks forward to our June gigs including Gov't Mule, D_Drive, Rockin' The Blues, Styx, Man With A Mission, Toto, Tesla (pictured and Track Of The Day), King Crimson, Meat Puppets, Chantel McGregor, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Don Broco. We also look back at our May gigs including The Brink and Ana Popovic plus our JoanovArc and Lethbridge Owen CD reviews, and our Glitter Machine and Rebecca Downes interviews. Don't forget that if you ever want to contribute a gig or CD review to our website then please get in touch!