Bonamassa Tickets Available 28/2/17
The WRC are of course off to see Joe Bonamassa at his sold out Royal Albert Hall gig on Thursday 20th April - but we also have two spare tickets for his sold out show the following night. In the true spirit of "Keeping Music Live" - no secondary ticket outlets for the WRC - all we want is face value! So if you are interested in seeing JB then simply send us a message in the contact box below and we will get back to you!
ROTR Gods 28/2/17
Today's 2016 WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day - originally broadcast on Saturday night - includes music from Trucker Diablo, Tequila Mockingbird, Dirty Thrills, 100 Watt Vipers, Puppet Kings, JacksonHewitt, Five Horse Johnson, Palace Of The King, Dogfeet, Doomsday Outlaw, Tax The Heat (pictured), AC/DC, Mount Holly, Dead Letter Circus, Artful Candid, The Blue Van, Royal Blood, The Black Delta Movement, Partisan, Radiohead and on their 'Introducing Stage' Lowercase Gods!
Hurricanes And Halos 28/2/17
Sweden's Doom darlings Avatarium are back with their third studio album and once again, singer Jennie-Ann Smith and her gentlemen cast a spell over you with a truly magical sound experience - 'Hurricanes And Halos' will take the world by storm on Friday May 26th and contains eight majestic new tracks. Once again, the band rely on beauty and darkness, heavy guitars and fragile sounds, unique female vocals and the mystic vintage Blues sound from the 60's, while still staying on modern ground and trusting into the haunting soul of Doom Rock. Six out of the eight new tracks were forged by Candlemass wizard Leif Edling, but guitar master Marcus Jidell and singer Jennie-Ann Smith also contributed to the songwriting and formed a worthy successor to 'The Girl With The Raven Mask' (Vid Of The Day) - an album that topped multiple soundchecks in 2015 and brought them the 'Up And Coming'-award from German Metal Hammer.
Help 27/2/17
Papa Roach last week gave fans a taste of their forthcoming ninth album with a video for their new single ‘Help’ which is today's Vid Of The Day. The band, featuring Jacoby Shaddix (vocals), Jerry Horton (guitars), Tobin Esperance (bass) and Tony Palermo (drums), expect to release their new album in May. 'Help' was produced by Nicholas “Ras” Furlong and Colin Brittian, who grew up listening to Papa Roach and inspired the band to revisit some of their early influences. The band teased fans late last year with the viral release of 'Crooked Teeth' exciting fans all over the world who are expecting an album as dynamic as their classics 'Infest' and 'Getting Away with Murder'. Papa Roach will be heading out on a Canadian tour with Sum 41 during April, followed by a handful of US festival dates.
Shooter Hits Target 27/2/17
Well done to Shooter frontman Dom O'Reilly who completed the Craven Cottage 10k yesterday and not only deservedly got the pictured medal but also raised his target of £500 for Cancer Research UK. After the race Dom said "I finished it despite taking a wrong turn following a runner who wasn’t in the race - so had to back track and do another 450m - but still did just under 44 minutes!" And there's still time to sponsor Dom if you go here! Thanks once again for your support.
A Blues Sandwich 27/2/17
Today's Black On Blues Track Of The Day features Two 5, Gwyn Ashton, The New Bloodlines, John Verity (pictured), Monkey Junk and David Bray.
When The Party Started 26/2/17
A new Sammy Hagar collection 'When The Party Started' - which has been out in the US since late November - is now getting an official UK release on Friday 10th March. The new compilation includes two unreleased songs
‘No Worries’ and ‘Never Said Goodbye’ . Sammy said "With this collection, I wanted to revisit what I feel are the best songs I wrote during the second wave. I’d left Van Halen and formed the Wabos as an alternative to the
superstar, high-pressure, commercial machine that I’d been living in since I joined Montrose in 1972. These albums, ‘Red Voodoo’ (1999), ‘Ten 13’ (2000) and ‘Livin’ It Up’ (2006), represent the first time I was free from the pressures of putting out a major label release in 25 years. Musically, I needed to shake it up and fall in love with
making music again."
Wade Waist Deep 26/2/17
Thomas Wynn and The Believers - the six-piece ensemble from Orlando, Florida, are breaking beyond the Southern Rock scene with the release of their new album, 'Wade Waist Deep’, out this May via Mascot Label Group. Named the #1 Rock Band and #1 Country/Folk Band in the city for seven consecutive years by the Orlando Weekly, the band's combination of Rock and Southern Soul, supported by Thomas’ self-styled “blood harmonies” with his sister Olivia are hauntingly beautiful and forge an uplifting “Soul Rock", mixing the best of Classic Rock, R&B and Gospel. As a first taste from the album, they delve into hypnotic Blues on 'Man Out of Time' - which is today's Vid Of The Day.
Mississippi Live On The Marsh 26/2/17
The Marshman returned to the airwaves on Friday night following last week's Broadstairs Blues Bash! Anyway, on today's Blues On The Marsh Track Of The Day, Kevin is joined live in the studio by Mississippi Macdonald And The Cottonmouth Kings! There's also music from Randy McAllister, Frank Bjordal and His Blues Revue, Gwyn Ashton and Chris Finnen, Melissa Etheridge and more.
Please Give Dom Your Support! 25/2/17
Our good mate and Shooter guitarist Dom O'Reilly is again running the Craven Cottage 10k this Sunday 26th February in aid of Cancer Research UK. Dom told us "Its getting harder each year but its for a truly great cause so any donations greatly appreciated." So if you would llike to support Dom like us - then simply go here. Thanks for your support!
Under The Red Cloud 25/2/17
Finnish masters of melancholic Progressive Metal, Amorphis, recently played special shows in Helsinki, where they performed a very special setlist with guest musicians and friends. These shows will be part of the new tour edition which was released yesterday via Nuclear Blast. The package includes the entire album 'Under The Red Cloud' with two bonus songs as well as the live tracks in Helsinki. The band also recently unveiled the first video to one of these live tracks 'Her Alone' - today's Vid Of The Day - featuring Anneke van Giersbergen, which is the last song on the bonus CD.
No More Forgiveness 25/2/17
With fire and no fear on their side, 2017 sees Gravil rise from the big smoke with the release of their new album 'No More Forgiveness' on Friday 5th May. Before the album drops, the London melodic Death Metallers pulls no punches with the release of their single 'Decomissioned' (as featured on the latest Metal Hammer covermount CD). Consequently today's Track Of The Day isn't shy in coming forward!
It's A War In Here 24/2/17
"But holding centre stage, Manimal are all about Nyman. He really works the crowd well with a scary leering skull like presence that has hints of Gollum, The Walking Dead and every Brooklyn punk with a bad attitude. He’s animated, fist pumping, exhorting the crowd who were having a ball. All of which are eclipsed by his voice. Halford had the pipes and so does Nyman. The set has the same chugging tempo with everything from throbbing djent to the almost funky bass opening of 'Human Nature'. Although that doesn’t last long before the enfilade of machine gun fire opens up again. It’s a war in here."
Read the whole of Mother's Manimal/Firewind/Scar Of The Sun gig review masterpiece from last Sunday night at Camden's Underworld here plus check out John Bull's awesome photo gallery here.
Blues Club Broadstairs Special 24/2/17
Today's Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day is another two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat featuring New Releases, Classic Tracks and UK IBBA Presenters' Picks. Host Jim McNeill also looks back at The Broadstairs Blues Bash plus looks forward to the forthcoming smash-hit show from Australia "At Last - The Etta James Story" which will be touring the UK in the Spring.
Be Prepared To Go Dark ..... 24/2/17
Hellbound Hearts have released a video (today's Vid Of The Day) for their new song 'The Light We Cannot See', taken from their forthcoming debut album 'Film Noir', which is due to be released on Friday 7th April. Online zine One Metal describes Hellbound Hearts as, "the kind of music that should be played with high octane and fervent amounts of passion." Given the eager anticipation of 'Film Noir', the Yorkshire Alternative Rock trio have solidified the promise shown on previous EP's in a fashion that simply shouldnt be ignored if you're a Rock fan. Produced by Matt Ellis at Axis Studios (Black Spiders, Terrorvision), 'Film Noir' is a commanding collection of songs that range from feel-good melodies to dark, sinister hooks, whilst all the time packing in stand out singalong choruses and heavy grooves.
Better Safe Than Sober 23/2/17
This coming March sees the release of London Doom Pop group Courtesans stunning new E.P. 'Better Safe Than Sober'. Following the release of their acclaimed debut album '1917' and last year's successful Pledge Music campaign, they have also unveiled their new single 'Mesmerise' which is today's Vid Of The Day. Blending dark Pop smarts with industrial subtleties and combined with an Alternative Rock, trip-hop soundscape - the band's new E.P., consisting of Courtesans Sinead La Bella on vocals, Saffire Sanchez on guitar, Agnes D. Jones on bass and Vikki Frances on drums - is one of the first unique sonic amalgamations to be heard in 2017 that shake up establishments, break down walls and fearlessly dare to be different amongst a plethora of carbon copy carnage.
Burning Away The Day 23/2/17
Chicago based Metallers Black Sites brand new single 'Burning Away The Day', taken from their recently released debut album 'In Monochrome', is today's Track Of The Day. Black Sites features some of Chicago’s finest players from the underground Metal scene. The band features Mark Sugar on vocals/guitar, ex-Trials bandmate Ryan Bruchert on guitar, John Picillo from Without Waves and Immortal Bird on bass and Chris Avgerin from Nequient and Autonomy on drums. The four-piece band draws inspiration from a panoramic pedigree of classic and modern Metal and Hard rock influences including Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, 1970's Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Fates Warning, Motörhead, Queensrÿche, Voivod, Hammers Of Misfortune and Dawnbringer.
Boston Tea Party 23/2/17
Following the release of their highly acclaimed debut album 'Selfish Age' via Better Noise Records last month, UK five piece As Lions have announced a London headline show at the Boston Arms Music Rooms in Tufnell Park on Wednesday 22nd March. This special date in the capital serves as the perfect warm-up for the band’s 10-date US tour with Shinedown that kicks off in April. As Lions are also confirmed for their first UK festival appearance of the year at Bristol's Fat Lip Festival in July, along with Young Guns and will be playing a number of US festivals including Rock On The Range, Welcome To Rockville and Northern Invasion. Since coming together in 2015, the band - comprising of vocalist Austin Dickinson, guitarist and keyboardist Conor O’Keefe, guitarist Will Homer, bassist Stefan Whiting and drummer Dave Fee - have played sold-out shows in the UK, as well as performing with Trivium, and recently wrapped up a US arena tour with Five Finger Death Punch and Shinedown, spanning 27 dates, including 13 sold out shows across the States!
Islington Academy's Runaway 22/2/17
Don't miss the chance to see Lita Ford (Vid Of The Day) for a UK exclusive headline show. Hailed as the queen of rock, Lita was the lead guitarist for The Runaways in the 1970's, before embarking on a solo career in the 80's. Lita has lined up a headline concert at London’s Islington Academy on Sunday 12th March, two days after headlining the HRH/AOR Festival in Wales. A British born rocker who grew up on the streets of L.A., Ford was a founding member of the Runaways, one of the first girl groups who unexpectedly broke down barriers in the Punk era as well as the male-dominated world of Rock music, causing a stir with their six rebellious releases. Following the demise of the Runaways, Lita concentrated on her own career, subsequently creating such memorable hits as ‘Close Your Eyes Forever’, ‘What Do You Know About Love’, ‘Shot Of Poison’, ‘Larger Than Life’ and ‘Kiss Me Deadly’.
Honest Man On Route 66 22/2/17
This week's guest on our Route 66 Track Of The Day is Matt Andersen - a Canadian guitarist and singer songwriter who has shared stages with Buddy Guy, Gregg Allman, Jonny Lang and the Tedeschi Trucks Band. He won the 2013 and 2016 European Blues Award for Best Solo/Acoustic Act, picked up three Maple Blues Awards in 2012 and nabbed the International Blues Challenge prize in Memphis in 2010. With over 10 million views on Youtube he’s certainly getting noticed for his unique live performances, which he’ll be bringing to the UK in May in support of his new album, 'Honest Man'. And talking of honest men - host Rory Auskerry also play classic tracks from David Lee Roth, The Spencer Davis Group, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, AC/DC, Eric Clapton and Johnny Copeland.
Glenn Hughes Storyteller Event 22/2/17
Glenn Hughes is a true original whose music blends Hard Rock, Soul, and Funk. The Glenn Hughes Storytellers event, to be held at London's historic Cafe de Paris from midday to 4pm this Saturday 25th February, is a must do for all Glenn Hughes fans. Tickets are strictly limited to 200 and can be booked online here. An exciting highlight to the up-close-and-personal event will include the airing of a new 60 minute documentary, featuring never-before-seen classic archival vision of Glenn from the 70's. This will be the world premiere of the film - not to be missed! The exclusive film screening will be followed by a 2 hour story telling session hosted by Vintage Television's Friday Night Rock Show host, Nicky Horne, where Glenn will delve into some of the great and even infamous events in his life to date.
It's Going To Be Magic! 21/2/17
Don't forget that tickets are now on a sale to see our WRC sponsored charity concert ‘Magic - a kind of Queen & a kind of ELO’ at the Mick Jagger Centre, Dartford, on Saturday 18th November at 7.30pm. Following the success of the Monster’s Of Irish Rock featuring Limehouse Lizzy and U2 Tribe at last year’s ‘Wrinklystock 5’ - ‘Wrinklystock 6’ stars Magic, a tribute to two of the greatest British Rock bands of all time - Queen and The Electric Light Orchestra - together in one fabulous show! Tickets can be purchased here for a bargain £22 or from the MJC Box Office on 01322 291100.
Holding Absence 21/2/17
Despite being in existence a mere six months, Cardiff's Holding Absence have already achieved more than many do in years and now their unique blend of emotive Post-Hardcore has gained the attention of Nuclear Blast's imprint label Sharptone Records. The band recently unveiled today's Vid Of The Day 'Dream Of Me'. Formed in 2016, the quintet have already played shows with Being As An Ocean, Casey, Greywind, Burning Down Alaska and more, as well as headlining plenty shows of their own. 2017 will see the band up the ante with a touring schedule already set to make them the busiest band in the UK. Catch them support Blood Youth in April or at a bunch of festivals this summer. Stay tuned for more announcements to come!
ROTR Catch Up 21/2/17
We missed Jules & Bob at the Ziggy Stardust movie shown at the Hammersmith Apollo last Thursday but we didn't miss their awesome show broadcast on Saturday night! In case you missed it, today's Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day features Blacklist Union, Thundermother, Black Star Riders, The Black Jackals, The Broken Ravens, Clutch, Blacktop Mojo, Inglorious, The Mute Gods, Black Rose Cadillac, Guns N' Roses, Red Line Chemistry, Bedrokk, The Mystery Lights, Wicked Tongues, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Desert Mountain Tribe, Monster Truck (pictured), Troubled Horse, Rainbreakers, Disciples of Babylon and on their Introducing Stage Love Past Blue all the way from Dallas!
Peter Skellern 20/2/17
There's no doubt that Peter Skellern's 'You're A Lady' (today's Vid Of The Day) was one of the defining singles of the eclectic UK charts of the 70's - particularly his subtle use of a brass band. Skellern's death on Friday from cancer at the age of 69 was yet another kick in the teeth to our formative years and our musical memories. Unfairly regarded as a one hit wonder - Skellern's career, in addition to over 20 albums and 3 other singles, saw him write and perform music for both television and film.
The Long Road Home 20/2/17
Asking Alexandria and We Are Harlot frontman Danny Worsnop matures effortlessly into Blues Rock/outlaw country territory on his solo debut, 'The Long Road Home' released via Earache Records last Friday, delivering an album of real, raw emotion, with songs about personal tragedy, hard-living and heartache. At the age of just 26, Worsnop has already lived more of life's ups and downs than most. His recent personal tragedy is laid bare in album opener 'Prozac' and the listener is taken on a roller-coaster of emotions through the twelve song set. Danny has also announced that he has been added to Kent's Ramblin' Man Fair line up in July!
A Laundry Bin Of Blues 20/2/17
Today's Black On Blues Track Of The Day is another popular Blues women special including Emma Jane Kennedy, Misty Blues/Gina Coleman, Toriah Fontaine, Saturday Nite Fish Fry/Shakura S’Aida, Patty Reese and Ruby And The Revelatory.
Oslo - Capital Of Sweden! 19/2/17
"A key feature of Johnossi is their unique guitar sound, achieved by running an acoustic guitar through effects pedals and electric guitar amplifiers. As well as providing a myriad of pedal effects, this approach enables John to switch quickly and easily between acoustic and full-on Rock anthem guitar sounds, supporting a wide range of musical styles. However, although their music style may shift dramatically, Johnossi’s lyrical themes rarely do, invariably revolving around personal soul-searching, existentialism and/or angsty situations."
Read the whole of Big Ian's Johnossi gig review from last Wednesday night at Hackney's Oslo Bar here plus check out today's Vid Of The Day!
Manimal Underworld Tonight 19/2/17
Swedish Power Metallers Manimal are playing London's The Underworld in Camden tonight in support of rockers Firewind. The band’s latest album 'Trapped In The Shadows' was released in late November 2015 and this is their first European Tour to come to the UK after a successful tour of Europe in 2016 with AFM label-mates Orden Ogan. AFM Records has released two full albums with the Gothenburg four-piece so far and their tour concludes on Tuesday 21st February at the Engine Rooms in Southampton.
Rather Be Dead 19/2/17
The SoapGirls recently unveiled their new video for the primal and emotional break up song 'Rather Be Dead' (Track Of The Day) which is an outsider anthem that’s both androgynous and audacious. Hailing from South Africa, the alluring, hypnotic and nonchalant SoapGirls were given their name by the general public. “We have been The SoapGirls since we were 8 and 9 selling hand made soap and street performing for various causes, we did this 365 days of the year for 9 years”. Armed with a venomous swagger and catchy, riff-oriented guitar grind, backed up by their strong songwriting abilities, dedication and determination to their craft, The SoapGirls have earned them a formidable live reputation, with a devoted group of followers known as the ‘The SoapSuds’, following the band across the globe!
Variations On A Dream 18/2/17
"Progdate: Saturday 2nd August 2003. Deputising for the the missing Oxygen8 and supporting headliners Caravan - we had just witnessed The Pineapple Thief's first ever gig at The Whitchurch Prog Rock Musical Festival. It was a cracking set - so much so that we headed straight over to their merchandise stall and bought a signed version of 'Variations On A Dream/8 Days'. Now turn the clock forward 13 years or so plus eleven quality studio albums later and the Testbourne School Theatre gig is all but a distant memory as TPT marched into a sold out Islington Assembly Hall last Saturday night."
Read the whole of AJ's The Pineapple Thief gig review from last Saturday night at the Islington Assembly Hall here plus check out our photo gallery here.
Black Orchid Empire Interview Part 1 18/2/17
Described as Hard Rock with a soft underbelly, we saw the awesome Black Orchid Empire headline at Camden's Monarch in early February. At yet another Camden Rocks showcase, The Monarch is a real rock pub, a microcosm of today's music business as bands bartered equipment with each other during their sound checks, whilst we were interviewing BOE consisting of New Zealander Dave Ferguson (bass/vocals), American Billy Freedom (drums) and Brit Paul Visser (vocals/guitar) backstage beforehand. In fact the interview was so good and long that we have split it into two parts - the first part is today's Track Of The Day where the guys tell us here about life before BOE, life with BOE, their musical influences, the making of 'Archetype' and Emergenza 2013.
Ziggy Played Guitar 18/2/17
It was meant to be our night off - but we just had to tell you about the awesome screening last Thursday night of the legendary concert film, Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars (Vid Of The Day), which was screened at Hammersmith’s Apollo for the first time since the concert took place on July 3rd 1973. The event kicked of with a DJ set from female duo The Smoking Guns, followed by the group Animal Noise, who are massively influenced by Bowie’s work, before the 1973 documentary and concert film by D. A. Pennebaker, was shown. Bowie made the surprise announcement that the show would be "the last show that we'll ever do", later understood to mean that he was retiring his Ziggy Stardust persona. Pure Rock history.
Eastern Allure 17/2/17
"But hidden amongst the back streets, in wafting distance of Brick Lane’s finest, is a growing number of live music venues like 93 Feet East, hosting the up and coming bands that are the future of today’s real music scene. Not the commercially produced pap that fills our supermarket aisles but real artists who write their songs from the heart and tour the country in small dark clubs to a growing following. The people outside may be young and trendy, but the music is as down and dirty as the old meat market ever was. I suggest you check the area out."
Read the whole of Mother's Where The Fires Are, Kid Kapichi, Knites and Kryer gig review from Wednesday night here.
Live At Freak Valley 17/2/17
The Krissy Matthews Band (Vid Of The Day) are set to embark on a UK tour in March and April to celebrate the release of their first live album 'Live At Freak Valley'. Released by Proper Records on Friday 14th April, the live album was recorded at the Freak Valley Festival in Siegen, Germany on 27th May 2016. It really catches the adrenalin and pure excitement of the band in all their glory. The tour begins at The Bullingdon, Oxford, on Wednesday 29th March and concludes at The Arches, Coventry on Thursday 27th April. Originally from Oxford, Krissy's band has often been described as an exciting, high octane, Power Rock trio steeped in Blues roots. 24 year old Matthews has performed at some of Europe's most iconic music venues including Ronnie Scotts, Loreley, Tanzbrunnen and Festa Avante. Hes also opened for many high profile recording artists at the top of their game including Joe Bonamassa, Toto, Gregg Allman and Tedeschi Trucks Band. See you at Krissy's London The Fiddler's Elbow gig on Wednesday 19th April!
Blues Club Open Again 17/2/17
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 Independent Blues Broadcasters Association Presenter's Picks and much more. Music this week Includes tracks from The Knickerbocker All-Stars, Ronnie Baker Brooks, Tas Cru, Marcus Malone Band, Beth Hart, Paul DesLauriers, Paul Carrack, Trudy Lynn, Lew Jetton, Catfish, Meena Cryle & Chris Fillmore, Jonny Lang, Peter Karp, The Hexmen, Elvin Bishop, Kathleen Pearson, John Mayall, Moreland & Arbuckle, The Troy Redfern Band (pictured), Jon Gindick, Gerry Jablonski Band, Chris Rea, Jo Harman, Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado, Rebecca Downes, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.
Cut Against The Grain 16/2/17
"One of the things most noticeable upon repeated plays of this debut album is how restrained Aaron Keylock is with regards to his playing, with his youth and talent it would be easy to get carried away and make each song a lengthy overindulgent shred fest, however he definitely understands the concept of less is more as no song outlasts its welcome, making for a perfectly paced CD. It's the sound of a guy for whose future is so bright it's no wonder he wears shades on the cover."
Read the whole of Phil C's review of Aaron Keylock's 'Cut Against The Grain' CD here. Aaron (Vid Of The Day) is also playing Planet Rock Winter’s End Fest in Poole, Dorset, on Friday 24th February and is supporting Sari Schorr at London's Borderline on Monday 20th March.
O2 Blitz 16/2/17
London's O2 Stone Free Festival, which opens its doors at midday on Saturday 17th June, have announced that legendary British Glam Rock giants Sweet, who during the ‘70s had thirteen Top 20 hits including ‘Blockbuster’, ‘Hell Raiser’, ‘Fox On the Run’ and the evergreen feel-good anthem ‘The Ballroom Blitz’, will be joining headliners Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow in the main arena. Indigo at The O2 will also be hosting a full afternoon of entertainment including Northern Ireland’s The Answer, who have hit new heights with their most recent album Solas plus Scottish rockers Gun, with iconic New York hard rockers Blue Öyster Cult playing a full headline set and closing the afternoon festivities, who throughout their four-decade career have garnered huge critical acclaim, in particular for the hit single ‘(Don’t Fear) The Reaper’ and other fan favourites including ‘Godzilla’ and ‘Burning For You’.
Thunder On Route 66 16/2/17
This week's Route 66 show features new tracks from Thunder (pictured), Chickenfoot, Jo Harman, Aaron Keylock and Matt Andersen. Today's Track Of The Day also has classic tracks from The Doors, Ted Nugent, AC/DC and Annie Lennox and many more plus this week's music news, social media and top jockin' from host Rory Auskerry!
Blood Jungle Album Launch Tonight 15/2/17
Johnossi’s 'Blood Jungle' album launch show at London's Oslo, Hackney, takes place tonight - and the WRC will be there! The platinum-selling, Swedish Grammy winners will play the show ahead of the release of 'Blood Jungle' through Polydor this coming Friday. Johnossi (Vid Of The Day) played a sold out show at London's Hoxton Bar & Kitchen last year, and have just played their first shows in America. After tonight they'll be heading out on an extensive 24-date European tour in March. The band recently released their new single ‘Hands’, which addresses police brutality, and follows the release of ‘Air Is Free’ and ‘Weak Spots’ also taken from the album.
We've Got The Time Tonight 15/2/17
Believe it or not, the WRC will also be at London's Where Fires Are gig tonight at 93 Feet East in Brick Lane E1. The guys have just recently released their new single ‘I’ve Got The Time’ plus a new EP 'One Four Six One'. Where Fires Are are a 5-piece band from Leeds consisting of frontman Robbie Gillespie, Nick Banks (keys, synth), James Clegg (bass), Matt Exton (drums) and Ash Reynolds (guitar). They have an edgy Alt-Rock feel to their music featuring big riffs and soaring melodies. They are currently mid-way through their UK tour supporting the EP release and have received a great reception at the shows so far and have been hearing great things about their live set.
Rock On The Ridge On Fire 15/2/17
Where Fires Are also on the 2016 WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge playlist from Saturday night! Today's Track Of The Day also includes music from The Black Marbles, Fire At Midnight, Wicked Stone (pictured), Osara, Crash Midnight, Cherry White, One Man Revival, Florence Black, Mindriotmt, The New Roses, RavenEye, Jackson Hewitt, Tesla, Black Label Society, Daughtry, Shinedown, Incubus, UFO, Sixx:A.M., The Who and on their introducing stage a really great sound from Dieselle May!
Love Exists 14/2/17
Just in case you've forgotten today, Evanescence’s Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter Amy Lee released a new single, 'Love Exists' last Friday as an interactive Valentine - today's Track Of The Day. Known for her soaring haunting vocals and sophisticated piano melodies, Rolling Stone describe Lee as “one of Hard Rock’s leading ladies” and Kerrang cites her as “one of the most significant and influential women in Rock”. Amy is currently in the studio with Evanescence, working on new music expected later this year. They play two shows later this year at Hammersmith's Eventim Apollo on Tuesday 13th June and Wednesday 14th June.
I'm Dead 14/2/17
Featured "On The Radar" artists in the latest issue of Rock Sound Magazine (#223), Death Blooms (Vid Of The Day) are a brand new Alternative Metal quartet from Manchester and Liverpool. Armed with confidence, plenty of skills, social awareness and angst bubbling under the surface, Death Blooms sound is both frenetic and infectious; seamlessly combining hardcore vocals with bullet proof guitar riffs, bouncing grooves and oozing an adundance of modern melodic audio sonics. Following live shows with Dope, Skindred, Raging Speedhorn and Anti-Clone, Death Blooms will release their self titled debut EP on Friday 12th May. Expect to see a lot more of this immense new band!
Dan Patlansky UK Tour 14/2/17
Celebrated South African Blues Rock guitarist Dan Patlansky returns to the UK for his April/May UK Tour with special guest Ash Wilson. This will be the first tour Patlansky will undertake following his support slot on King King's 2016 UK tour and Joe Satriani's 2015 UK and European tour. The UK tour follows Patlansky's recent accolade when his current album 'Introvertigo' was voted the #1 Blues Rock Album of 2016 by the Blues Rock Review. Lincolnshire-based singer-songwriter Ash Wilson is hailed as one of the UK's most exciting and distinctive new vocalists, guitarists and songwriters in the British contemporary Blues scene. Wilson's debut album, Broken Machine, will be released on Friday 21st April and features bassist Roger Inniss (Chaka Khan, ex-Laurence Jones), keyboardist Bob Fridzema (King King) and guitarist Jesse Davey (The Hoax).
Punks Have Their Day 13/2/17
"All the anger, the passion and the drive is there - this could be their first gig. Opening with 'Know Your Enemy', Green Day unleashed their sound on an audience that were revved up and ready to go. And go they did. Billie Joe is all about the crowd, constantly exhorting them to stand up, jump around, wave their arms, scream or just generally go crazy. Fairly common stuff you might say but you rarely see Dad’s out bopping their teenage daughters. And rarely do you ever see no-one giving a toss about it either. The set was a lengthy one - two and a half hours including the encore, which all went with lightning speed. The set was sprinkled with a good mix of hits from albums past as well as the new material. 'Revolution Radio’s title track was a big hit with the audience."
Read the whole of Mother's excellent Green Day review from last Wednesday's London O2 Arena gig here.
Fend For Yourself 13/2/17
With the dust settling after their awesome Islington Assembly Hall gig on Saturday night - today we bring you The Pineapple Thief photo gallery here including support band Godsticks. Despite the taking of photos and vids being frowned upon on the night - your intrepid WRC reporter did manage to sneak a few shots - which include Godsticks guitarist Darran Charles guesting for TPT as he did on their last album 'Your Wilderness'.
Keeping The Blues Alive 13/2/17
This week's Black On Blues Track Of The Day features music from Al Brown, Willie & The Bandits, James O’Hara, Kenny Neal, Dave Fields, Tim Gartland and the Starlite Campbell Band.
What We Have Sown 12/2/17
Just under fourteen years since we saw them play their very first gig supporting Caravan at the Whitchurch Festival in August 2003 - and eleven studio albums later - The Pineapple Thief deservedly marched into a sold out Islington Assembly Hall last night. Despite the snow - an added attraction for the assembled masses was the addition of Porcupine Tree/King Crimson drummer Gavin Harrison to the fold - following his outstanding performance on TPT's latest offering 'Your Wilderness'. With the trusty Prog backbone of Soord, Sykes and Kitch plus Godsticks as support - much was expected - and and as usual - we were not disappointed! Watch out for a review and more pics shortly, but in the meantime check out today's Vid Of The Day.
Pieces Of Brentwood 12/2/17
We first introduced you to Pieces Of Mind in February 2015 when the band celebrated their 50th anniversary with a great new album of original stuff entitled 'Born At The Bosco'. Since then they were featured in June 2016 on BBC Four’s 'The UK’s Best Part-Time Band' and now the guys are playing the Brentwood Festival on Sunday 16th July supporting Midge Ure , Heaven 17 and Go West which takes place that weekend in aid of charity. So why not get along and see the band who shared the stage with David Bowie and Billy Fury as well as The Who during their performance at the Coed Eva Community College in 1966!
Blues On The Marsh TOTD 12/2/17
Today's Blues On The Marsh Track Of The Day, originally broadcast on Friday night, includes music from Amanda St John, Kaz Hawkins Band, Meena Cryle & Chris Fillmore, Toriah Fontaine, Sistahs Too, Lachy Doley Band and Catfish (pictured).
Porcupine Thief 11/2/17
"Of course the bonus of going to see a particular band at a festival or a gig is that you often come away praising another band you have seen for the first time. Turn back the clock 12 years and the WRC went to see Caravan at The Whitchurch Festival and ended up seeing The Pineapple Thief’s very first gig – and as they say the rest is history. Although seeing them at numerous gigs since then – this was only the second time at a Festival. Despite the non-stop rain - a warm welcome of “Bruce….!!” greeted TPT frontman Bruce Soord as he, John Sykes (bass), Steve Kitch (keyboards) and Dan Osborne (drums) entered the fray." Is it really 18 months since we last saw WRC favourites TPT at Ramblin' Man? Well, we will put that right at the Islington Assembly Hall tonight - the icing on the cake being Porcupine Tree's very own Gavin Harrison guesting on drums!
Blues Is The New Cool 11/2/17
We first introduced you to Kat & Co. in April 2015 and the band have now released their long awaited second album 'Blues Is The New Cool' on Tone Trade Records. One of the most modern Blues act in England today, their music has been produced at the highest possible standards - their sound is unique, a combination of Pop, Soul, Jazz, Rock and Blues, something the critics already call Urban-Blues. Kat & Co. have performed with the likes of Lurrie Bell, Joe Louis Walker, Lil Jimmy Reed, Mud Morganfield and Paul Lamb and they have supported some of the best artists in the business from Charlie Musselwhite to Sugar Blue. Their line up is Kathleen Pearson: vocals, Francesco Accurso: guitars and vocals, Federico Parodi: keys, harmonica and vocals, Marco Marzola: bass and double bass and Nick Owsianka: drums and vocals. So check out today's Vid Of The Day - their animated video for their single 'New Spleen Blues'.
The Forest Seasons 11/2/17
Finnish kings of epic Melodic Death, Wintersun (Track Of The Day), recently announced their crowdfunding campaign that will start on Wednesday 1st March which will allow fans to secure their 'Forest Package' - also including their upcoming and third studio album 'The Forest Seasons' - directly from the band. With the collected amount, front man Jari Mäenpää plans to build his own studio that would finally allow him to record his long-awaited album 'Time II'!
Devilishly Good 10/2/17
What better way to keep the cold at bay and warm the soul with a tour and Video Of The Day from the fiery Devilskin. Devilskin’s March UK tour with Sumo Cyco follows the band's hugely successful joint headline tour accompanying their friends Halestorm and Disturbed. To coincide with the tour Devilskin have unveiled the new video for 'Voices' taken for their second album 'Be Like The River', recently called “Devilishly Good” in Metal Hammer. And of course the WRC will be at Camden's Underworld to cover their London gig on Wednesday 22nd March!
Erase You 10/2/17
Canadian Alt-Rock outfit Bleeker have released the brand new stripped back 2017 mix of their single ‘Highway’, taken from their brand new album 'Erase You', released today in the UK via Five Seven Music. The new version arrives as the band continues their rapid ascent as the #1 most added track at US Active Rock Radio. ‘Highway’ now also holds the #1 spot on the Canadian Active Rock Charts and was featured on both Apple Music’s ‘Best Tracks of 2016’ and Spotify’s ‘Best of 2016 Rock This’, while reaching over 2 million streams!
Those Friday Blues 10/2/17
The Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns this week with another two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat, featuring New Releases, Classic Tracks, UK Independent Blues Broadcasters Association Presenters' Picks and much more. Music this week Includes tracks from Keb' Mo', John Mayall, Eric Clapton, Blacktop Deluxe, Bobby Rush, Joe Bonamassa, Toronzo Cannon, John Cee Stannard, Albert Collins, Robert Cray, Joanne Shaw Taylor (pictured), Starlite Campbell Band, Catfish, Bill Blue, Frank Bang and The Cook County Kings, Beth Hart, Melissa Etheridge, The Billy Seward Band, Peter Green and Friends, Brothers Groove, Gerry Jablonski Band, The Marcus King Band, Jo Harman, Thornetta Davis, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado, Mike Goudreau, Lachy Doley, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.
Trapped In The Shadows 9/2/17
Swedish Power Metallers Manimal (Video Of The Day) are making their UK debut next month, playing six shows around the country in support of rockers Firewind. The band’s latest album 'Trapped In The Shadows' was released in late November 2015 and this is their first European Tour to come to the UK after a successful tour of Europe in 2016 with AFM label-mates Orden Ogan. AFM Records has released two full albums with the Gothenburg four-piece so far and their tour starts at the Audio, Glasgow next Wednesday 15th February and concludes on Tuesday 21st February at the Engine Rooms in Southampton.
He Saw It Comin' 9/2/17
In December 2011, Jack Russell's Great White (Track Of The Day) first bared its teeth with longtime bassist and friend Tony Montana (nowadays on guitar), keyboardist/lead guitarist Robby Lochner and drummer Dicki Fliszar. Recently the band released a sharp, soaring and slick new album 'He Saw It Comin', boasting the Bluesy Hard Rock stomp that made Russell and Montana icons in the first place. Rounding out the new lineup with Lochner and Fliszar and with the more recent addition of Dan McNay on bass, these musicians hit the studio to cut their official full-length debut. It taps into the Bluesy bombast and heavy energy of Russell's celebrated material, but it's a distinctly modern Metallic monster.
My Old Man's The Sking Of Skiffle! 9/2/17
We caught multi-talented performer Peter Donegan (son of the late chart-topping Lonnie) at Camden's Proud last September (pictured). Peter is now touring with the Lonnie Donegan Band, and will be appearing at Twickenham's famous Eel Pie Club, The Patch, 67 London Road TW1 3SZ tonight. Peter plays piano, guitar, mandolin, harmonica, banjo, as well as lead vocals, and has joined forces with the band that toured with the legend for the last 30 years. He has toured with Van Morrison and Crystal Gale and is currently producing a new solo album, recorded in Nashville, consisting completely of his own material, and will soon be recording his second album with the Donegan Band at Sugar Ray's Studios in the UK, using the same equipment that was used in the original Sun Records Studios in Memphis! Doors open at 8.30pm with music from 9-11pm. WRC members are reminded that they can use their cards to get discounted admission.
Unruly Child 8/2/17
Original members of the legendary Melodic Hard Rock quintet Unruly Child (Vid Of The Day) have reunited to release a brand new album with Frontiers Music Srl entitled 'Can't Go Home' on Friday 24th February. Marcie Michelle Free (vocalist - King Kobra, Signal), Bruce Gowdy (guitarist - Stone Fury, World Trade) and Guy Allison (keyboardist - Lodgic, World Trade, Doobie Brothers), together with the original band members from the first record, drummer - Jay Schellen (Hurricane, World Trade, Asia) and bassist - Larry Antonino (Pablo Cruise), comprise the lineup for this recording. With the return to the original line-up from their debut album, they have discovered that while time may pass, some things never change. In their case, that's a good thing. The future looks very promising for the return of Unruly Child!
Ash Wilson On Route 66 8/2/17
British Blues Rock guitarist and singer/songwriter Ash Wilson chats to host Rory Auskerry on today's Route 66 Track Of The Day about his debut album 'Broken Machine'. There's also new tracks from Matt Andersen and the Rainbreakers plus classic tracks from Black Sabbath and the Rolling Stones, along with all the music news, and for birthdays in Rock, Rory spins Sheryl Crow, Michael Bolton, Mike Zito, Canned Heat and Queen!
Killers Of The Deep 8/2/17
As the WRC now hits 2,500 Twitter followers, we were recently included in a tweet from our friends at @3MsMusicUK notifying us of a special gig by 70’s cult band Sharks at London's iconic 100 Club tonight with support from High Treason. Sharks is a Rock band formed by Free bassist Andy Fraser and legendary guitarist Chris Spedding in 1973. Following the death of Andy in 2015, Sharks performed a series of tribute gigs and they have now reformed, including former Sex Pistols drummer Paul Cook, and recorded a new album 'Killers of the Deep', released on the 3Ms Music label. Hope to see you there!
King Bees 7/2/17
The WRC originally "introduced" you to The Hexmen (Vid Of The Day) in February 2015 and the guys are currently putting together a promo tour for their new album 'King Bee'. The band’s music is Blues based certainly but the defining quality of The Hexmen has always been energy with an aggressive, Indie edge and a psychedelic undercurrent that lends extra dimensions to the music. The album features current band members George Wickstead on vocals and harmonica, Ian Fuller on guitar, Mike Cain on bass and Mat Shaw on drums plus Cindy Hoten on backing vocals on track one and three. Watch out for a WRC review of 'King Bee' coming soon!
Dirty Thrills on ROTR! 7/2/17
Saturday night's 2016 WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day includes music from Dirty Thrills (pictured), Black Mirrors, Like A Storm, Alter Bridge, The 69 Eyes, Black Star Riders, The Answer, Jackson Hewitt, Scorpion Child, Uriah Heep, Deep Purple, Crobot, The Bad Flowers, Bad Sign, The Temperance Movement, The Brew, Elephant Mountain, The Devil In California, Avenged Sevenfold, Saving Abel and on their introducing stage Artful Candid!
Evanescence Second Apollo Date 7/2/17
Following their announcement of a date at London’s Eventim Apollo on Wednesday 14th June which quickly sold out, multi-platinum rock band Evanescence have added a second date the night before. Led by Amy Lee’s operatic and passionate vocals, Evanescence has sold nearly 25 million albums since the band’s 2003 debut, 'Fallen'. The album’s premiere single, 'Bring Me To Life' won a Grammy for Best Hard Rock Performance. Other massive hits followed including 'My Immortal', 'Going Under' and 'Call Me When You’re Sober', establishing Evanescence as worldwide tour headliners. These dates will be the band’s first in the UK for five years.
The Black Watch 6/2/17
"Therefore this one-off gig followed some pretty extensive promotional gigging in 2016 which included Planet Rockstock and Standon Calling. It was a bit disappointing therefore to learn (but understandable) towards the end of our interview that, with a strict curfew at 11pm, BOE's set was to be restricted to just half an hour! The band are currently writing their second album and kicked off with a newbie 'Mouth Of The Wolf' which was immediately followed by the more familiar and punchy 'God Is Awake' with it's stand out vocal harmonies from Visser and Ferguson - their second single from 'Archetype' (and part of their "Empire Strikes Back" video trilogy) which has deservedly received plenty of airplay on Planet Rock. Given the short setlist - the self explanatory quick fire 'Riff Of Death' again from 'Archetype' was proof, if needed, of what a meticulous power trio BOE are - not only further evidence of their strength but the fact that they are all riffing from the same hymn sheet."
Read the rest of AJ's Black Orchid Empire Camden Monarch review from last Thursday here plus check out our photo gallery here.
Amplified Open Air Festival Launched 6/2/17
Amplified is an exciting new three-day Rock/Metal festival featuring a top quality line-up of chart-topping artists, breaking new bands, great food and drink, and excellent amenities. Situated in the glorious Cotswold countryside, it takes place over the weekend of 21st - 23rd July at Quarrydowns, between Northleach and Aldsworth in Gloucestershire. Confirmed acts across the Main Stage, Very Metal Art Stage, Shoot Your Hoops Stage and The Tavern Stage include Puddle Of Mudd, Evil Scarecrow, Trapt, Diamond Head (Vid Of The Day), Acid Reign and many more.
A Deep Blues Ocean 6/2/17
Today's Black On Blues Track Of The Day is another popular Blues women special featuring GMichelle Siedman & The Midnight Ramblers, Koko Taylor, Alberta Hunter, Brigitte Purdy, Liz Mandeville and Erja Lyytinen (pictured).
The Source 5/2/17
'The Source' (Vid Of The Day) is an exciting new chapter in the Ayreon saga, due to be released on Friday 28th April, with contributions from renowned vocalists like James LaBrie (Dream Theater), Simone Simons (Epica), Floor Jansen (Nightwish), Hansi Kürsch (Blind Guardian), Tobias Sammet (Edguy, Avantasia) and Russell Allen (Symphony X). 2017 will be a particularly exciting year for Ayreon fans thanks to a unique chance to actually see Ayreon live. Limited to three exclusive performances, “The Ayreon Universe” will take place in September in the prestigious 013 venue in Tilburg, Holland. This unprecedented live event features the best of twenty years of Ayreon music, brought to life by a top cast of musicians such as Jansen, Allen and Kürsch plus Damian Wilson (Threshold), Tommy Karevik (Kamelot), Jonas Renkse (Katatonia), Anneke van Giersbergen and various others. The reclusive Arjen Lucassen himself (pictured) is also expected to make a rare appearance on stage. The tickets for all concerts – 9,000 in total – sold out within a day, proving once again that the Ayreon magic is still very much alive and kicking.
Last Great Dreamers 5/2/17
Last Great Dreamers are special guests on two forthcoming UK tours in March and April with The Quireboys and Bang Tango. Possibly one of the most essential British rock bands of recent times, they are due to embark on 22 dates so catch them live and they promise “you won’t regret it!” Their latest album 'Transmissions From Oblivion' is an energetic yet sensitive album that celebrates music and storytelling, with 14 finely crafted songs overflowing with rock’n’roll attitude, emotion and glamour which includes the singles 'Glitterball Apocalypse', which documents the tragedies of rock n roll, the raucous 'Dope School' and the flamboyant yet urgent Power-Pop classic 'Oblivion Kids' (Track Of The Day).
Great Momentum 5/2/17
Edenbridge, Austria's premier Symphonic Melodic Metal act, have announced the release of their stupendous ninth studio album, 'The Great Momentum', on Friday 17th February on Steamhammer/SPV, as a DigiPak CD, double gatefold 180 gram golden vinyl album (with printed inner sleeves plus CD in a cardboard sleeve), box-set, download and stream! The band, formed by composer, multi-instrumentalist/main man Lanvall and soaring, expressive singer Sabine Edelsbacher, have once again succeeded in raising the bar ever higher on 'The Great Momentum', a powerful, diverse, hauntingly atmospheric symphonic Melodic Metal masterstroke!
Broken Machine 4/2/17
"I find it hard to listen to this style of electric guitar driven Blues Rock without making comparisons to one of my heroes Mr. Joe Bonamassa, who, without doubt is one of the best guitarists I have ever seen. I would find it hard to believe that Ash wasn't influenced by him for track five 'Words Of A Woman'. It has a great sound, with strong lyrics revolving around a woman's troubles when her husband leaves ("Does She Have To Start Again"). A great ballad with an excellent solo from Ash at the end, definitely my favourite song on the album."
Read the whole of Phil C's Ash Wilson 'Broken Machine' CD review here plus check out our Vid Of The Day.
Camden Rocks 4/2/17
With an interview and a review still to come - today we have our photo gallery here from Black Orchid Empire's gig at Camden's The Monarch from Thursday night which also includes pics of support band The Indya Band (pictured).
Bad Pennies At Iron Horse Tonight! 4/2/17
Bad Pennies (Track Of The Day) - the tight, no-nonsense Rock & Blues band hailing from the Medway Delta - are playing the Iron Horse in Sidcup, Kent, tonight. The four-piece band pay tribute to Rory Gallagher, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Gary Moore, Dr. Feelgood, Thin Lizzy, ZZ Top, Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Winter and more. So if you're all dressed up with nowhere to boogie - why not get along tonight with admission just £3!
The Empire Strikes Back 3/2/17
Described as Hard Rock with a soft underbelly, we caught the awesome Black Orchid Empire headline at Camden's Monarch last night. With a plethora of support bands, namely, I Cried Wolf, Stereo Juggernaut, Dead Dollar Days and The Indya Band - there was no question that you were not going to get your money's worth - particularly as BOE's setlist contained their critically acclaimed new album 'Archetype'. We also had the pleasure of interviewing the band consisting of Dave Ferguson (bass/vocals), Billy Freedom (drums) and Paul Visser (vocals/guitar) backstage beforehand - so watch out for our audio interview soon. In the meantime check out today's Vid Of The Day with a review and more pics to follow.
Shepherd's Bush Goes Wild! 3/2/17
"'Wild' is Joanne’s 5th studio album and was produced in Nashville by Kevin Shirley. The tracks on the album are well produced and show a movement in her career more towards the song writing and singing prowess and less towards her guitar skills. Don’t get me wrong, the dexterity of the vibratomatrix is still evident as she hammers on and pulls off with aplomb. But the focus seems to be the vocals. And that seemed to come across live too. I was all too conscious of the backing keyboards or rhythm guitar where I would usually be transfixed by the searing lead playing. The sound levels were fine, it just felt like the lead had fallen into the overall mix. To me, JST is a supreme guitar player who can sing beautifully. But the set was still fantastic. As part of her evolution, Joanne has added Gibson Les Paul’s to her arsenal and boy does she get the best out of them."
Read the whole of Mother's Joanne Shaw Taylor Shepherd's Bush Empire gig review here from last Friday and check out John Bull's photo gallery here.
Blues Club Open Its Doors Again 3/2/17
The Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day returns this week with another two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat, featuring New Releases, Classic Tracks, UK Independent Blues Broadcasters Association Presenters' Picks and much more. Music this week Includes tracks from Catfish (pictured), The Cadillac Kings, The Rolling Stones, Big Daddy Wilson, Bridget Kelly, Jim Koeppel/Dust My Blues Band, Thornetta Davis, The Hitman Blues Band, Jack Mack and the Heart Attack Horns, John Latini, Larry Griffith Band, Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats, Camera Soul, Lachy Doley, Hamish Stuart, Molly Duncan and Steve Ferrone, Tim Gartland, Kathleen Pearson, Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion, Jo Harman, Mike Goudreau, Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado, Ash Wilson, Fran McGillivray Band, Terry Blankley, Eric Hansson, Marcus Malone Band, Starlite Campbell Band, John Mayall and B. B. & The Blues Shacks
John Wetton 2/2/17
Rock music legend John Wetton sadly passed away on Tuesday after a long and courageous battle against colon cancer at the age of 67. John rose to fame with King Crimson in the early 1970’s during the iconic ‘Red’ era and later formed the band UK. In the early 1980’s he was a founder member of supergroup ASIA (Track Of The Day), which was his biggest commercial success. The band’s 1982 self-titled debut album was the biggest selling album in the world that year and contained the mega-hit ‘Heat of the Moment’. John also enjoyed a successful solo career, including the seminal album ‘Battle Lines’, and formed iCon with ASIA bandmate Geoff Downes. In 2006 the original line-up of ASIA reformed and toured the world several times to promote four further studio albums. John had been planning to tour with ASIA for the band’s forthcoming US arena tour with Journey and, following the success of his solo Studio Recordings Anthology, to continue working on the ongoing reissue programme of his solo albums via his own Primary Purpose label. John valued his over 11 years of sobriety and volunteered time in fellowship with other alcoholics to share his experience, strength and hope with them. John is survived by his recently wed wife Lisa, 18 year old son Dylan, brother Robert and mother Peggy. The very last studio song of John Wetton’s career was the closing track on the most recent ASIA album ‘Gravitas’, which included the profound lyric “Think the best of me, till we meet again.” A new live album by ASIA entitled ’Symfonia - Live In Bulgaria 2013’ is released on the Frontiers label on Friday 24th February.
Paint It Black 2/2/17
Black is the operative word this week as just two night's after seeing Sabbath at the O2 Arena we are off to London again to see Black Orchid Empire at Camden's The Monarch. The London-based Rock trio released their new album 'Archetype' in November and have have performed alongside heavyweights such as Biffy Clyro, Skunk Anansie, Feeder and Editors and include previous members of highly-acclaimed groups Queen Adreena and Cape Fear. They have enjoyed significant support for their previous singles, having been playlisted on Kerrang! TV, Kerrang! Radio, Planet Rock and Total Rock. Anyway, watch out for a review, vids, pics and an interview coming soon!
Tuesday Bloody Sabbath 2/2/17
We're all still buzzing after Black Sabbath's awesome shows at London's O2 Arena last Tuesday and Sunday. So today we bring you some pics from Tuesday night's gig which include support band Rival Sons (Vid Of The Day) in our photo gallery here. We've also added Tuesday night's vid of 'Iron Man' to Phil C's review from Sunday night here.
Iron Men To The End 1/2/17
Following Phil C's Black Sabbath O2 gig review from Sunday, Phil's tweet yesterday promised we were in for a treat last night at the second and final London leg of their 'The End' tour - and he was not wrong! Anyway, check out today's Vid Of The Day with a photo gallery hopefully added tomorrow.
February WRC Bulletin Out Today 1/2/17
Today's February 2017 WRC e-mail Bulletin not only look back at our 2016 WRC Awards but also at the gigs and CD's we reviewed in January including Black Sabbath, Glenn Hughes, The Bottom Line, Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats and Ronnie Baker Brooks plus new bands we have introduced. As well as tickets now being on sale here for Wrinklystock 6 featuring Magic - a kind of Queen & ELO - we also look forward to February gigs including Black Orchid Empire, The Pineapple Thief and Planet Rock's Winters End! Remember just go here to sign up for FREE membership where you can get discounts on selected gigs and merchandise! And if you are not currently on our e-mail circulation list then please send us your details in the contact box below!
Another Brick In The Wall 1/2/17
The Route 66 Show are building a wall of sound plus it's going to be a mighty wall and you don't have to pay for it! Join host Rory Auskerry on today's Track Of The Day for new music from Eric Gales, Erja Lyytinen and Whiskey Myers plus classic tracks from Fleetwood Mac, The Faces, Genesis and Deep Purple. Rory also reviews Glenn Hughes (pictured) and Stone Broken's recent gig in Manchester.