AN OUTLAW TORN IN CHAINS

VINYL SOARS

2011-05-15T19:20:00.000+01:00

According to the following article, vinyl sales are soaring and rock music is partially to be thanked. Perhaps there's some connection between loyalty and integrity.

ultimate guitar - vinyls soa

THE CULT - HAMMERSMITH APOLLO (HMV APOLLO)

2011-05-15T00:31:00.000+01:00

The CULT were terrific, great setlist of old, rare and new, good crowd and Horse Nation was as poignantly rifftastic as ever, thank you.

London, England, HMV Hammersmith Apollo

Opening Band: Romance, Masters Of Reality

Setlist

Everyman And Woman Is A Star
Rain
Horse Nation
Sweet Soul Sister
Saints Are Down
White
Dirty Little Rockstar
Nirvana
Ghost Dance
Embers
War
Go West
Wildflower
She Sells Sanctuary
Until The Light Takes Us
Love Removal Machine

Encore

Rise
Spiritwalker
Break On Through

Brandon Flowers - Brixton Academy

2010-10-21T09:41:00.005+01:00

A truly enjoyable night, Brandon Flowers and his backing band brought the songs from his debut album to life went it came to this live performance. I hadn't given 'Flamingo' that much of a listen but I was familiar with the tracks prior to the concert. I found most songs to have too much of a similar vibe and sound, but the live energy made up for this. The few Killers tracks presented along side the Flamingo tracks were standouts and had the crowd singing every word with an extra oomph of grace. Human and Mr Brightside both featured Stuart Price who had re-worked the tracks.

The solo material was still incredibly well received and the mostly young, female filled audience were hanging to every syllable, lipped word.

GRINDERMAN - LIVE AT THE CORONET

2010-10-03T12:29:00.013+01:00

The dingy, urine scented South London 'Coronet' provided the perfect atmosphere for the sleazy, primitive facial haired but charmingly suited Grinderman quartet to deliver their performance in.

Cave, Casey, Ellis & Sclavunos delivered a blistering set consisting of songs from their two albums. The crowd enjoyed every track, every sexual reference, every lyric and hang on to the stunningly energetic performance that Cave is still able to deliver as he "kicked those white mice out..." all over the stage. The sweat, ominous lighting, loud and clear sound all aided in making this gig an experience. Grinderman's music allows for dancing, moshing, raving and singing, and all were present and delivered accordingly to their mix of psychedelic, rock maniacal sound, which is superbly fresh in an age where artists and listeners are striving to find new un-laboured musical territory. Ellis' screeching tenor guitar is an energetic, raw, visceral tool that fills the old cinema with a sound that others will envy as his fingers draw emotion from one's musical intoxication, by playing tracks such as 'Evil' & 'Get it On', that simply rumble the walls of the Coronet. The band seem to enjoy performing and the the rawkus crowd responded, which begged the question; What took them an 1 1/2 hrs to get on stage?

Besides the wait, the concert was superb, GRINDERMAN are not The Bad Seeds, something which a couple of crowd 'Mercy Seat' requesters should have learned before and let's hope after the gig...

Mickey Mouse and the Goodbye Man
Worm Tamer
Get It On
Heathen Child
Palaces Of Montezuma
Evil
When My Baby Comes
What I Know
Honey Bee (Let's Fly to Mars)
Kitchenette
No Pussy Blues
Bellringer Blues
Encore:
When My Love Comes Down
Man in the Moon
Grinderman

GRINDERMAN 2

2010-09-26T14:24:00.010+01:00

Grinderman 2 has been released and like it's primate fronting brother this second 'wolf' record offers the same majestic, destructive, noise creating team of four, that delivered that first raw album. Except that in this sophomore offering the band have managed to maintain that sonic ear lashing bashing, whilst also dwelling into territory that explores a broadening of the bands' sound without relinquishing the initial vitality found on Grinderman I. Tracks such as ''Worm Tamer'' deliver garage, psychedelia, whilst the sensational ''Palaces of Montezuma'' simply stands out on its own; certainly the most talked about track on the album so far. A personal highlight however is the prog-like "When my baby comes", click here to give it a listen.

The album is hopefully a sign of things to come, promising that Grinderman is not just another project for Cave but instead it will exist for many years to come, as next to the Bad Seeds' softer appraoch, Grinderman is the perfect antidote with which to rock out to, laugh and admire Ellis', Casey's, Sclavunos' & Cave's unrefined sonic creativity. (Click for: GRINDERMAN - "Star Charmer", a non LP track)

For tickets and tour dates click here

GRINDERMAN - "Palaces of Montezuma" - Jools Holland

"The spinal cord of JFK...."

SOUNDGARDEN AT THE VIC THEATRE

2010-08-07T01:07:00.001+01:00

mtv article

'Jesus Christ Pose'

STONE TEMPLE PILOTS BRIXTON ACADEMY REVIEW

2010-06-17T19:18:00.007+01:00

The crowd was loud, Kretz, the DeLeo's and Weiland were certainly on form and the music was powerful and moving as ever. The venue's Roman facade's and peeling paint lay the setting for a night of sensational Weiland dancing, groove riffing rock. 'Vasoline' and 'Crackerman' set the pace for gig but there were also some new tracks which went down quite well with the hungry crowd as well as some rare tracks; 'Lounge Fly' & 'Tumble in the Rough', The 'hits' which went down like a storm, 'Plush', & 'Interstate Love Song' to name two. Dean DeLeo proved he's an underrated class guitarist, whose bright but heavy chords are the fill and texture to the unit of Robert DeLeo and Eric Kretz's superb bass and drum backbone, the trio providing the platform and colour for Scott Weiland's Bowie meets John Lydon persona. His frontman and vocal abilites were top notch as he delivered 'Big Empty' and 'Trippin' On A Hole'...' with a profound emotion and projection that enticed every individual in the Academy to unite and sing in hope for another STP concert of this quality soon.

Vasoline
Crackerman
Wicked Garden
Between The Lines
Hickory Dichotomy
Big Empty
Sour Girl
Creep
Plush
Interstate Love Song
Bagman
Huckleberry Crumble
Tumble In The Rough
Lounge Fly
Sex Type Thing
Encore:
Dead And Bloated
Trippin' On A Hole In A Paper Heart

AEROSMITH - LONDON 02 ARENA REVIEW - PHOTOS

2010-06-16T15:24:00.007+01:00

Aerosmith were fantastic at the London 02 Arena last night. Good to see they are still here having read only 6 months ago that it was all over for the boys. They delivered a set of sing a long classics, as well as some vintage material...no 'Combination' though, which could have taken the place of that song...."I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing", which seemed slightly out of place last night, considering the quality of the set, inclusive of other ballads such as 'What It Takes 'and 'Cryin'. Steven Tyler proved that he still is the greatest front man alive today and all 18,000 there last night hang to his every word and charismatic swagger.

Airbourne were a great surprise opening act that shook the rock n'roll foundations of the edifice.

Only negative; the face value of the tickets...

Love in an Elevator
Back in the Saddle
Falling in Love (is Hard on the Knees)
Eat The Rich
Pink
Livin' on the Edge
What It Takes
Chip Away the Stone
Train Kept A-Rollin' (Tiny Bradshaw cover)
Cryin'
Drum Solo
Lord Of The Thighs
Stop Messin' Around (Fleetwood Mac cover)
I Don't Want To Miss a Thing
Sweet Emotion
Baby, Please Don't Go (Big Joe Williams cover)
Draw the Line
Encore:
Dream On
Walk This Way
Toys in the Attic

MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP - 02 SHEPHERD'S BUSH EMPIRE LONDON REVIEW / PHOTOS

2010-06-03T18:15:00.007+01:00

Fantastic performance from Michael and the boys. The sound was excellent and the surprise guests were a real treat. Pete Way & Paul Raymond plus Doogie White joining the band for 'Doctor Doctor' was superb, as well as Herman Rarebell on for 'Lights Out', and Neil Murray on 'A Night to Remember', here's to Pete Way's recovery, as well as plenty more years from MSG on fine form.

Setlist:

Armed And Ready
Cry For The Nations
Let Sleeping Dogs Lie
Are You Ready to Rock
I Want You
Night To Remember (with Neil Murray)
Into The Arena
Lost Horizons
Rock My Nights Away
On And On
Lights Out (with Herman Rarebell)
Attack of The Mad Axeman

Encore:
Ride On My Way
Doctor Doctor (with Pete Way, Paul Raymond & Doogie White)
Rock Bottom

MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP - NEWS ON 30th ANNIVERSARY SHOW

2010-05-21T08:25:00.003+01:00

Source taken from official MSG site:

Michael Schenker and MSG is very proud to have guest apperances of Herman Rarebell (ex Scorpions), Neil Murray (ex Whitesnake) and Doogie White (ex Rainbow) PLUS MORE SPECIAL SURPRISE GUESTS who will perform only at MSG's 30th Anniversary Shepperds Bush Empire show in London on June 02 2010!

Perhaps even Graham Bonnet will come to the show...

R.I.P Ronnie James Dio "The vision never dies, life's a never ending wheel..."

2010-05-16T22:12:00.003+01:00

Today the world has lost a Legend. Ronnie James Dio succumbed to cancer, with his battle ending this morning, but his legacy, unique voice and musical body of work will last till the end of time.

RIP Ronnie James Dio

July 10, 1942 – May 16, 2010

KISS - WEMBLEY ARENA - Pt. II

2010-05-16T17:19:00.006+01:00

KISS - WEMBLEY ARENA...older & cockier...

2010-05-14T19:49:00.022+01:00

KISS- Wembley Arena: 12th May 2010

KISS's legacy is a long & fan head-butting controversial one, but also one to celebrated as it is coming up to 36yrs...hence the ALIVE 35 tour title that began last year and has now become the SONIC BOOM tour in support of the band's new studio effort since 1998's PSYCHO CIRCUS; a record full of contradictions. KISSTORY is filled with wave like highs and lows. From constant line up changes to deaths rip; Eric Carr (July 12, 1950 – November 24, 1991) & Mark St John (February 7, 1956 – April 5, 2007), and tonight is an affair of mainly ups with a few dips in the explosive 2 hour plus set that the band deliver.

My decision to attend the concert was a last minute one as my favourite era of the band is with Stanley, Frehley, Criss & Simmons. Tonight though with Eric Singer & Thommy Thayer taking over the Catman & Space Ace responsibilities, Simmons & Stanley conjured a set of fan favourites and a few new tracks from Sonic Boom. The 2/3 full Wembley arena (a 2nd date added to the SOLD OUT date on the 13th) was loud and proud. It's easy to forget how many classics KISS have, and the crowd tonight put their voices to the test as song after song was sang in heavy chorus and excitement. Paul Stanley is a classy a front man as there has ever been, his voice may be slightly strained at times but for a man nearing 60, his playing, singing & performance are a testament to his dedication to the fans and his passion for the music. Gene on the other hand although equally as dedicated was somewhat a little more 'visual'. His constant groin rubbing and saliva dripping might have been tantalising to women of his age but at times it was somewhat off-putting & gimmicky. Nearing 60, Simmons is no junior, but having said that, he was perhaps just fulfilling his character as the DEMON to it's plethora-tic dimension, as at other points during the night his fire breathing, blood gurgling antics were top notch entertainment and delighted the fans. Singer and Thayer are solid throughout the night and fill the large shoes of the much missed originals; Frehley & Criss; Although as Stanley introduced Thayer to sing ' Shock Me', a signature Ace song, their was an audible lull in the crowds enthusiasm...this may be due to the set list decisions surely coming down to Simmons & Stanley, and therefore their decisions are final. Perhaps a track such as 'When Lightning Strikes' from the new record, sang/written by Thayer would have suited best and would kill of any awkward atmosphere. Thayer's & Singer's playing and on stage performance was excellent and they do the job with full dedication and class.

The show was full of sonic booms, rockets, bazooka's, fire-houses, an excellent light show, flying KISS members and a pivotally great sound. The band really do deliver, and a fan's ticket is worth every penny. Cold Gin, Shout It Out Loud, Detroit Rock City & Love Gun sounded sensational as they played part of a great set to please most.

As a long time KISS fan of all the era's, I had to see them; although one does ask whether the band should have hang the curtain up in 2002 once the farewell tour was completed, as their popularity still exists but for the hard core fans KISS exist as a 50% cover band? Their set list like many 'classic' bands exists due to their original 'golden' era, a bill heavily laden on the 70's work done by the band, and the ALIVE 35 / Sonic Boom tour tag is a representation of their knowledge that their best work stems from this era.

But tonight is a concert that exists in it's own right, KISS prove that despite changes and the passing of time, they still have what it takes to deliver live, and few come to close their stage show & theatrics. The band paid tribute to former members through a touching digital display during 'God Gave Rock n' Roll to You II' as images of the extremely talented Eric Carr, Bruce Kulick were shown along side The Beatles and The Who, a fitting tribute to their past.

Bottom line, KISS is still a must watch live act, go and lose your KISS virginity...

Set List

Modern Day Delilah
Cold Gin
Let Me Go, Rock And Roll
Firehouse
Say Yeah
Deuce
Crazy Crazy Nights
Calling Dr. Love
Shock Me
I’m An Animal
100,000 Years
I Love It Loud
Love Gun
Black Diamond
Detroit Rock City
Lick It Up
Shout It Out Loud
I Was Made For Lovin’ You
God Gave Rock’n Roll To You
Rock And Roll All Nite

UFO / SCHENKER NEWS

2010-05-01T10:26:00.002+01:00

UFO are about half way through their second leg of their Visitor tour and all UK dates have now been played. There was some interruption to their tour as the volcanic ash caused havoc and forced the band to postpone a date in Germany. All dates end in late May apart from an appearance at the High Voltage Festival in July and rescheduled date in Nurmberg, as well as headlining the HARD ROCK HELL FESTIVAL IN PRESTATYN in December. Coincidently The Michael Schenker Group will also headline the concert at Prestatyn, which will bring up the obvious question....will there be a UFO reunion?

This Year (2010) Michael Schenker is taking MSG's 30th Anniversary Celebration
with Special Line-ups around the World. The Tour already started with amazing enthusiasm in Japan (DVD and Live CD which will be released in Autum) and will be in Europe in May, June, July and will continue in the States in July and August. Also planned are South America, Russia and other countries in Asia. Michael says :"It's exiting stuff and don´t miss the London show at Shepherd's Bush Empire on June 02 with surprise guest appearances!"

The above was taken from MSG's official website. Although Paul Raymond is the only UFO - MSG link, UFO aren't touring in early June. Without jumping to conclusions can we expect a UFO appearance..though UFO has nothing to do with the 30th anniversary celebration of the band, Schennker does perform UFO classics... perhaps we can expect another 'Simon Phillips' appearance on drums? Will Robin McAuley join for a few tracks? Lenni Wolf of KINGDOME COME & Herman Rarebell from the SCORPIONS recently joined MSG on stage at Musikmesse in Germany, so what can we expect from the Mad Axeman? Will it be a special guest opening act or just special guests joining MSG?

In the states MSG will be joined by George Lynch on the now called ''Battle of the Axe Tour'', something that would be great to have over here in the UK.

Check out RB Araki's MSG page for all confirmed and possible tour dates: http://www.rbaraki.com/notice2-e.htm

Head to MISTY GREEN & BLUE for all the latest news on UFO: http://www.beatsworking.tv/UFO/latest.html

Here's some rare LIVE footage of UFO performing Belladonna in Russia 2006:

SOUNDGARDEN FIRST REUNION SHOW - 'NUDEDRAGONS'

2010-04-17T23:51:00.002+01:00

Thayil and the boys rip it up at a 'secret' club show...

If the quality here is anything to go by, the reunion will be an explosive affair. Roll on those tour dates.

SCHENKER, WOLF, RAREBELL - MUSIKMESSE MARCH 2010

2010-04-14T11:27:00.002+01:00

Great footage of Lenny Wolf (Kingdom Come), Herman Rarebell (Scorpions) & Michael Schenker performing 'Lights out', Armed and ready' and some other tracks, shame the clip isn't longer!

MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP - ROCK BOTTOM - TOKYO DVD?

2010-03-29T22:55:00.004+01:00

Possible footage for the new MSG Japan dvd, if so it looks and sounds truly fantastic. The band is in superb form.

STONE TEMPLE PILOTS

2010-03-20T18:41:00.005Z

The band's new single can be downloaded here: http://www.fmqbproductions.com/epks/2010/stp/

The band have scheduled two further UK dates besides their DOWNLOAD FESTIVAL appearence.

June 14th at the Olympia Theatre Dublin & June 16th at Brixton Academy London

New album due MAY 25th, here's theTracklist:

Between The Lines

Take A Load Off

Huckleberry Crumble

Hickory Dichotomy

Dare If You Dare

Cinnamon

Hazy Daze

Bagman

Peacoat

Fast As I Can

First Kiss On Mars

Maver

"Hail! Hail The Sting in the TAIL!!!"

2010-03-20T18:35:00.005Z

SCORPIONS have begun their final world tour with succesful shows in Prague & Moscow where songs from their new record (now available in Germany, March 22nd & 23rd worldwide) were debuted and well received. STING IN THE TAIL seems to be doing well in terms of chart places so far and reviews have been positive, it's certainly a cut above 'Humanity: HOUR 1, it's certainly a fantastic send-off from the teutonic heroes of metal. The album is hard, heavy, & melodic. Highlights include, 'NO LIMIT', 'RAISED ON ROCK' 'TURN YOU ON', 'LORELEI'...think CRAZY WORLD MEETS 1984's LOVE AT FIRST STING with a slight modern twist. This is pure SCORPIONS, don't expect an overnight sensation, this album takes time to grow, but in my eyes this is a sign of it's quality. Is it their best? No, is it worth it, ABSOLUTELY. It's a stronger record than Humanity or Unbreakable and probably their best since FACE THE HEAT. Buy IT, love IT and GET STUNG. A quality album to end their career with. "Hail! Hail The Sting in the TAIL!!!"

Check out the SCORPIONS official site for more info. Full song clips can be found on Youtube.

Some live reviews:

Prague & Moscow

SLASH SOLO ALBUM PREVIEW

2010-03-18T20:48:00.002Z

Vid including clips of all songs from Slash's solo record. Some pretty varied stuff, with Myles Kennedy the now confirmed singer for the tour on track 4. "Back from California".

MARCH PLAYLIST: '70, '80, '81, '85, '99, '07

2010-03-13T14:20:00.009Z

Great rock n' roll track from an arguably overlooked album, excellent chorus.

STP at their best but subdued.

Seemingly forgotten W.A.S.P masterpiece

Probably Ozzy's best epic track, featuring Randy Rhoads seminal guitar work.

Brilliant work from the CCR gang

Killer track from the 80's bad boys.

SLASH - MAKING OF THE NEW ALBUM...UFO sighting....

2010-03-02T10:38:00.002Z

Great insight to how the records going to sound and who's on it, plus Slash is wearing one of the best t shirts ever...UFO.......

Enjoy

RAMMSTEIN - MAKING 'ICH TU DIR WEH'

2010-02-27T14:07:00.001Z

MASTODON LIVE AT THE ROUNDHOUSE 24.2.10

2010-02-27T13:42:00.006Z

Mastodon's performance at the Camden Roundhouse was for a lack of a more ingenious word, fantastic. I had seen them back in '07 supporting Metallica at Wembley, but amidst the vastness of the stadium and my unfamiliarity with their material at the time I had only my respect for them to take away with me. Wednesday night's offering was something totally different. Presenting the entire 'Crack the Skye' album which has received several accolades from the metal music world and reputed as one of the best albums of the noughties, the sold out Roundhouse was in for an epic 50min journey complete with a brilliant & mesmerising video background to further emphasise the journey that the band led us through. This first half of their show raptured the audience and the thundering riff on Divinations or the epic prog influenced The Last Baron delivered with utmost sincerity and perfect musicianship. Once this first set was complete the second set was filled with what now are regarded as Mastodon classics, and arguably more brutal and heavier than their newer material, bringing a nice balance of new & old to the night. They are certainly a band to watch and to be followed, as their talent, material, and live presence will hopefully be here for a long time. hail mastodon.

Set list for the night:

Oblivion
Divinations
Quintessence
The Czar
Ghost Of Karelia
Crack The Skye
The Last Baron

Encore:
Circle Of Cysquatch
Aqua Dementia
Where Strides The Behemoth
Mother Puncher
Iron Tusk
March of the Fire Ants

http://www.mastodonrocks.com/

SCORPIONS - ''THE GOOD DIE YOUNG'' full track

2010-02-19T14:21:00.004Z

Thanks to Rockmachine.gr, the youtube user and the GREEK STING FAN CLUB!

The track has the potential to really be part of a final STING from the SCORPIONS on their imminent final tour.

TRACK HAS BEEN REMOVED

Greek Sting fan club site

Official SCORPIONS site

Dates so far:

Get your Sting and Blackout World Tour 2010 - 2011

European Leg
Date	Venue	City	Country	Info
15 Mar 2010	O2 Arena	Prague	Czech Republic	Tickets
18 Mar 2010	Ice Palace	Moscow	Russia	Tickets
10 Apr 2010	PPM Fest	Mons	Belgium	Tickets
7 May 2010	Arena	Leipzig	Germany	Special guest: Edguy Tickets
8 May 2010	Olympiahalle	München	Germany	Special guest: Edguy Tickets
12 May 2010	Festhalle	Frankfurt	Germany	Special guest: Edguy Tickets
14 May 2010	Hanns-Martin-Schleyer-Halle	Stuttgart	Germany	Special guest: Edguy Tickets
15 May 2010	Long "I" Rock	Longirod	Switzerland	Long I Rock
19 May 2010	Olympia	Paris	France	opening act: Karelia Tickets
21 May 2010	Stade Couvert	Lievin	France	opening act: Karelia Tickets
22 May 2010	Zenith	Strasbourg	France	opening act: Karelia Tickets
29 May 2010	O2 World	Berlin	Germany	Special guest: Edguy Tickets
30 May 2010	Stadthalle	Zwickau	Germany	Special guest: Edguy Tickets
1 Jun 2010	TUI Arena	Hannover	Germany	Special guest: Edguy Tickets
5 Jun 2010	Zosimadon National Stadium	Ioannina	Greece	Opening Acts: Giorgos Gakis & The Troublemakers
7 Jun 2010	T.B.A.	Thessaloniki	Greece
9 Jun 2010	Pampeloponnisiako Stadium	Patra	Greece
12 Jun 2010	Stadtgarten am Festspielhaus	Recklinghausen	Germany	Special guest: Edguy Tickets
North America Leg
Date	Venue	City	Country	Info
19 Jun 2010	M3 Rock Festival	Columbia, Maryland	U.S.A.
Latin America Leg
Date	Venue	City	Country	Info
7 Sep 2010	Palacio de los Deportes	Mexico City	Mexico
9 Sep 2010	T.B.A.	Bogotá	Colombia
11 Sep 2010	T.B.A.	Lima	Peru
14 Sep 2010	Movistar Arena	Santiago de Chile	Chile
16 Sep 2010	T.B.A.	T.B.A.	Brazil
18 Sep 2010	T.B.A.	T.B.A.	Brazil
19 Sep 2010	T.B.A.	T.B.A.	Brazil
20 Sep 2010	T.B.A.	T.B.A.	Brazil

R.I.P Bon Scott

2010-02-19T14:18:00.002Z

Today marks the 30th anniversary of Bon Scott's death, a man who needs no introduction,but... due to his unique flare and charisma here's a clip.

FEBRUARY LIST: '72, '79, '87, '90, '94, '97

2010-02-17T21:57:00.006Z

Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds with certainly one of the best songs of the 90's. 'Into My Arms' from 97's 'The Boatman's Call'

The Smiths, 'Shoplifters of the World Unite'. Brilliant musicianship from Marr and the boys, with a tantalising harmony lick.

Alice In Chains, 'Love, Hate, Love'...simply terrfic.

RAMMSTEIN, 'Herzeleid', title track from the unique 6...awesome.

David Bowie, 'Lady Stardust'. A beautfil 3mins 23secs of pure piano-bowie greatness.

'Stay Clean', Killer Motörhead track, still heavy, still Lemmy & still a classic.

SCORPIONS PRESS KIT VIDEO - STING IN THE TAIL

2010-02-15T22:48:00.001Z

Ellefson rejoins MEGADETH!

2010-02-09T18:42:00.002Z

David Ellefson's 8 year absence from Megadeth is now history. His return to the lineup marks him and Mustaine as the only two original members in Megadeth since the band's inception in 1983. The return of Ellefson will mark an interesting return as the band are to tour and as one off will play the classic Rust In Peace in it's entirety. Reasons as to James Lomenzo's depature are as of yet uncertain.

Mustaine is reported as saying: “David Ellefson belongs in Megadeth. Next we are going to show you the power of getting your asses kicked… HARD!”

Check out MEGADETH.COM for details, as well as CLASSIC ROCK MAGAZINE.

RAMMSTEIN WEMBLEY ARENA REVIEW: DIE FEURE ENGELS ARE BACK

2010-02-08T16:27:00.011Z

Image courtesy of Jonamary

It was with excitement, trepidation and German lyrics in my mind that I entered Wembley ARENA on February 4th. I had bought tickets 5months previous to this gig, that was within hours completely sold out and ebayers were selling standing tickets for ludicrous amounts of money; up to £150. RAMMSTEIN are one of my favourite bands and certainly one of the most original and important bands of the last 20years. Their songs, controversial nature and live shows are now world renowned and they never let down.

Although 'simple' RAMMSTEIN'S fusion of industrial or tanz-metal is simply stunning in every aspect. Keyboardist Flake's subtle layering and textures perfectly suit the heavy roaring guitars and thundering bass and drums, whilst vocalist Till Lindemann provides a depth and yet shrieking power that attracts, demands and emotionally soothes with his baritone poetic tone.

The bands entrance (see clip below) is certainly a feast for the eyes and ears as the unsettling haunting choral intro to 'RAMMLIED' is quickly shuddered by the power of the lyrics and riff that accompanies the lyrics 'RAMM-STEIN!'; the bands opening track on their new album 'LIEBE IST FUR ALLE DA', and anthem for the band and it's fans. The new tracks work extremely well amongst the fans as a mosh stirs up pretty quickly and the energy is felt amongst all.

The concert drew heavily on tracks from the new album as well as some older classics that had the 12,000 capacity arena roaring for more and screaming for fire, as perfectly executed on tracks such as 'FEURE FREI' from MUTTER or 'BENZIN'.

The stage looked like something out of ALIEN, a vast metal landscape that has suffered burns and bruises from the Industrial German Machine and plays as the scenario for plenty of fire, extremely loud and well timed explosions, babies with lasers attached to their heads, firework firing crossbows, fire breathing dragon masks, and even a 'basement' recreation (see 'Weiner Blut').

The band's prompt entrance and 1hr 40min set is certainly one of the most exciting concerts and original presentations in music I have ever witnessed. Rammstein's individuality and merit lay in their strength as a band, unity, and ability to push the envelope whilst retaining a hardcore fan base and still attracting new fans thanks to their cross over style. Their dance-like songs such as 'Laichzeit' or their orchestral brutal masterpieces such as 'Mein Herz Brent' allow them to garner fans of all styles and musical interests, and their live show provides a form of theater never before done with such taste & brutal beauty. Only Alice cooper, Kiss, Pink Floyd are some that have tackled this form of live presentation, but even they have never managed to present such a brutal force of creativity that even with minimal crowd interaction keeps thousand on the edge of their seat. It is the mystery the band possess and the relatively unknown personal lives that certainly adds to the enigma and ferocious addicted fan base that herald them as gods. The concert ends with Till Lindemann wearing a set of huge metal wings that set a blaze around him amongst the blue lit vast stage.

Set list:

Rammlied
B********
Waidmanns Heil
Keine Lust
Weisses Fleisch
Feuer frei!
Weiner Blut
Fruhling in Paris
Ich tu dir weh
Liebe ist fur alle da
Benzin
Links 2 3 4
Du hast
Pussy
Sonne
Haifisch
Ich will
Engel
(Stein um Stein [Piano] outro)

Click here for a TIMES ONLINE REVIEW

SCORPIONS SWISS BOOTLEG

2010-02-05T22:17:00.002Z

Brilliant SCORPIONS performance from this year, taken from a Swiss TV performance on the 22.1.10, enjoy:

Tracklist:
01. Intro / Coming Home [3:27]
02. Loving You Sunday Morning [3:50]
03. Is There Anybody There [4:09]
04. Make It Real [3:48]
05. The Zoo [6:11]
06. Coast To Coast [5:59]
07. Send Me An Angel [4:03]
08. Bad Boys Running Wild [4:35]
09. Blackout [4:00]
10. Still Loving You [6:33]
11. Wind Of Change [5:24]
12. Rock You Like A Hurricane [6:40]

http://www.sendspace.com/file/tiu32d

"HEY LEPPY' LETZ PARTY!

2010-01-28T11:24:00.001Z

Interview regarding the SCORPIONS split and upcoming album and tour...last link reveals Rudolf's tv destroying abilities...

http://www.classicrockrevisited.com/interviewScorpions.htm

SCORPIONS CALL IT A DAY...SOON....

2010-01-24T12:56:00.005Z

Source from official website:

Important Message to our Fans

It was always our pleasure, our purpose in life, our passion and we were fortunate enough to make music for you - whether it was live on stage or in the studio, creating new songs.

While we were working on our album these past few months, we could literally feel how powerful and creative our work was – and how much fun we were still having, in the process. But there was also something else: We want to end the Scorpion’s extraordinary career on a high note. We are extremely grateful for the fact that we still have the same passion for music we’ve always had since the beginning. This is why, especially now, we agree we have reached the end of the road. We finish our career with an album we consider to be one of the best we have ever recorded and with a tour that will start in our home country Germany and take us to five different continents over the next few years.

We want you, our fans, to be the first to know about this. Thank you for your never-ending support throughout the years!

We uploaded the very first snippets from our new album for you.

And now… let’s get the party started and get ready for a “Sting in the Tail”!

See you on the world tour,

Yours

Scorpions

The following are only snippets of tracks from their upcoming album, but it sounds promising, let's hope the SCORPS end their career in a high note!

STING IN THE TAIL Samples:

mms://the-scorpions.com/scorpions/ror_snippet.wma

mms://the-scorpions.com/scorpions/tgdy_snippet.wma

Certainly a sad moment for many, but also a celebration of their incredible career, let's look forward to their lengthy tour schedule and new record!

NEW ALBUM ARTWORK (STING IN THE TAIL)

Classic tracks playlist:

1. China White

2. Hey You

3. Always Somewhere

4. Big City Nights

5. In Trance

6. Lovedrive

7. Still Loving You

8. Pictured Life

9. Alien Nation

10. Holiday

11. Coast to Coast

12. Sails of Charon

13. Humanity

14. Blackout

15. Dynamite

MICHAEL SCHENKER DEAN RETRO FLYING V

2010-01-17T18:07:00.006Z

Gibson fans rejoice....possibly. It's been a couple of years since Michael Schenker signed on to Dean guitars and left behind / sold his Gibson flying v's. Though never a signature artist with the Gibson brand, the guitar maestro was associated with the Gibson V and it's unique yin-yang type paint scheme. His Deans maintained a very similar look but held obvious differences, such as the headstock shape. It's now 2010 and 30 years after MSG took off and the wonder-kid blasted through classics such as 'Cry for the Nations' & 'Into the Arena' with his V, Dean have now in turn created a V reminiscent of this Gibson like guitar, with the traditional Dean headstock. Some hardware changes do apply however, gone is the Seymour Duncan combination (Sh-5 Bridge & Sh-1 Neck pickups) and the V is now equipped with Dean Michael Schenker 'Lights Out' pickups. No prices or 'actual' photos yet, but they'll be posted as soon as they are available. Here are the specs:

MICHAEL SCHENKER SIGNATURE RETRO

• Mahogany Top / Body
• 24-3/4" Scale
• Set Mahogany C Neck
• Rosewood Fingerboard
• Pearl Dot Inlays
• Grover Tuners
• Nickel Hardware
• Tune-O-Matic Bridge
• USA Dean DMT Michael Schenker "Lights Out" Bridge Pickup
• Dean DMT Design Neck Pickup
• Finishes: Black & White

'I think thousands of Pearl Jam fans became Neil Young fans on Saturday, and I think Young should be applauded for putting himself on the line'

2010-01-09T13:40:00.008Z

"Recording Mirror Ball was like audio vérité, just a snapshot of what's happening. Sometimes I didn't know who was playing. I was just conscious of this big smouldering mass of sound."^{[ MOJO MAGAZINE, DEC 1995]}

Pearl Jam & Neil Young.

The Godfather of Grunge meets one of the pioneering bands of the 90's resulting in the album Mirrorball. This live collaboration as part of the support tour in '95 is a part of their live history together, you can be the judge.

The Polo Field

San Francisco, California

June 24, 1995

1. Big Green Country

2. Act of Love

3. Throw Your Hatred Down

4. Powderfinger

5. Truth be Known

6. Rockin' in the Free World

7. The Needle and the Damage Done

8. My My, Hey Hey

9. I'm the Ocean

10. Down by the River

Disc Two:

1. Downtown

2. Cortez the Killer

3. Peace and Love

4. Rockin' in the Free World

Pearl Jam:

5. Last Exit

6. Spin the Black Circle

7. Go

8. Animal

9. Tremor Christ

10. Corduroy

11. Not for You

Worth a read: http://www.thrasherswheat.org/ritfw/polo062495.htm

Bootleg Links:

http://rapidshare.com/files/257675879/NYPJ62495.part1.rar

http://rapidshare.com/files/257744921/NYPJ62495.part2.rar

JANUARY LIST: 1969, '74, '75, '76, '79 '82

2010-01-08T17:01:00.006Z

Some classic tracks from some of hard rock's best artists. Here's a short list of 6 songs worthy of anyone's playlist.

Alice Cooper: 'Devil's Food / Black Widow'

Brilliant tracks from Alice's 'Welcome To My Nightmare' 1975 ALBUM, with guest Vincent Price providing a delectable narration on the 'Black Widow' track.

UFO: 'Out In The Streets'

One of the greatest rock bands ever. Here UFO show us their more melodic side and Schenker blasts one of his all time best solo's, listen to the version on the classic 'Strangers In The Night' live album.

AC/DC: 'Rock 'N' Roll Singer'

One of the 'Scozzies' best tracks from the debut album 'High Voltage'. Bon Scott's lyrics make you wanna' pick up that guitar and ROCK N' fookin' ROLL.

Neil Young: 'Cowgirl in the Sand'

An absolute master-piece. His lyrical and six-string brilliance shine on this 10 minute epic...just listen to this live rendition.

Scorpions: 'Lovedrive'

Taken from their 1979 classic record, the title track begins with a storming, rolling riff and Klaus Meine's vocals keep you enthralled.

Diamond Head: 'Call Me'

The band that together with Motörhead inspired Metallica's original sound, this track is an example of their melodic brilliance and Tatler's killer flying V tone.

HAPPY NEW YEAR....SOUNDGARDEN TO RE-UNITE!

2010-01-01T14:28:00.003Z

Yes, with a new year comes some great news, and it's official:

http://www.chriscornell.com/news/default.aspx?nid=24160

Let's hope this lasts...!

RAMMSTEIN - ICH TU DIR WEH (New Single)

2009-12-22T11:50:00.006Z

(HD Quality link here, with perfect audio: http://visit-x.net/rammstein/)
Already banned in Germany, this song, one of the best on the excellent 'Liebe Ist Fur Alle Da', is now accompanied by this awesome video, which will no doubt also receive some sort of criticism, much like it's popular and unique video for 'Pussy'

2009 Interview:

ALICE COOPER - LIVE @ THE HAMMERSMITH APOLLO

2009-12-08T13:22:00.007Z

'Billion Dollar Babies', 'Go To Hell', '18', 'Welcome To My Nightmare', 'Poison'....the list goes on.

When people think ALICE COOPER the following words / emotions might come to mind: Shock, Horror, Show, Snakes, Death, Dark, School's out, Legend? YES...This Sunday I witnessed my first ever Alice Cooper gig and all I can really say is when's the next one? Like the Sold Out venue, expectations were high. Cooper is the King of Shock Rock and his delivery of more than just a concert filled with great tracks is standard. The crowd expect and demand a show, a production worthy of his reputation and this is what was promised this past Sunday. From the intro of 'School's Out' which rang with a school bell to reminisce any fan back to those days of pencil fiddling and table scratching ,to the mystifying 'Welcome to my Nightmare', Alice and the band delivered a set list to please any hard core fan. The tracks were heavily laden on the 1970's Alice with only some tracks from the 90's and 00's to be heard, but this choice of set list was one of many hundred combinations that Alice could have come conjured and would have still satisfied and worked marvellously with the production that was on offer. 4 Deaths, various costumes and a horribly attractive nurse coupled with classic songs made this a nightmare to remember. The band were terrific as they tore through the tracks with justice and some slight revamping, the sound was great, crowd even better and Mr Cooper is showing no signs of slowing down, and with the rumours that the concert is to be released on DVD/Blu-ray next spring...what could be better?

School's Out
Department of Youth
I'm Eighteen
Wicked Young Man
Ballad of Dwight Fry
Go To Hell
Guilty
Welcome To My Nightmare
Cold Ethyl
Poison
The Awakening
From The Inside
Nurse Rozetta
Is It My Body
Be My Lover
Only Women Bleed
I Never Cry
Black Widow jam
Drum solo
Vengeance Is Mine
Devil's Food
Dirty Diamonds
Billion Dollar Babies
Killer
I Love The Dead
No More Mr. Nice Guy
Under My Wheels

W.A.S.P LIVE @ THE SHEPHERDS BUSH EMPIRE

2009-12-08T12:49:00.005Z

Wednesday 2nd Decemeber 2009

I was expecting a good gig, but It was better than that...

Blackie Lawless is a man in his 50's now, I'd seen clips from the 'BABYLON'S BURNING' tour online and there were no 'gimmicks' or stage props, which were typical W.A.S.P stage additions. I'd read that due to Blackie's faith, tracks such as 'Animal F*** like a BEAST' would not be played, so I was a little weary before attending the event.

Yet despite the bare bones set (minus a video screen), Lawless and the band played their hearts out. The band were tight, fast, powerful and Lawless gave it his all in a fantastic set list that pleased newer and hardcore fans. The Empire was packed and with a near front row position I was in for a ride. Newer tracks such as, 'Crazy' & 'Babylon's Burning' flowed and rocked the set as if they were classics. The highlight of the evening however was certainly the tracks played off the seminal concept album 'The Crimson Idol', and they certainly received a roar from the crowd as the words "Murders, murders in the New Morgue!" shook the Empire. If you haven't seen W.A.S.P before then go, if your wondering what to listen to next, try the tracks from the setlist below.

Mephisto Waltz (intro)
On Your Knees / The Real Me (The Who Cover)
L.O.V.E. Machine
Crazy
Babylon's Burning
Wild Child
Arena Of Pleasure
Hellion / I Don't Need No Doctor (Humble Pie Cover) / Scream Until You Like It
Chainsaw Charlie
The Idol
Take Me Up
I Wanna Be Somebody
Encore:
Heaven's Hung In Black
Blind In Texas

WASP - 'On your Knees / The Real Me'

WASP - 'The Crimson Idol Documentary

A mad tangerine dream with a dog chasing UFO's in a temple full of chains...

2009-11-29T16:45:00.008Z

Been going through an Alice phase, by that I mean Alice In Chains & Alice Cooper. So upon making a compilation cd for a friend, I decided to add some other interesting numbers to the disc. Mainly early 90's bands and artists of similar sound but with the inclusion of some 70's and prog numbers. Here's the track listing and the artwork I made for it. I won't upload the mp3's themselves, but I'm sure finding them won't be hard...look for and enjoy.

1. I Don’t know anything - MAD SEASON

2. Like A Stone - AUDIOSLAVE

3. Seasons - CHRIS CORNELL

4. Brother - ALICE IN CHAINS

5. Only women bleed - ALICE COOPER

6. River of Deceit - MAD SEASON

7. The Silent Man - DREAM THEATER

8. Tangerine - LED ZEPPELIN

9. Try Me - UFO

10. Call me a Dog - TEMPLE OF THE DOG

11. Right Turn - ALICE IN CHAINS / 'MUDGARDEN'

12. Chloe Dancer / Crown of thorns - MOTHER LOVE BONE

13. Just Like Suicide - SOUNDGARDEN

14. Black gives way to blue - ALICE IN CHAINS

15. Wide Awake(Live unplugged) - AUDIOSLAVE

16. Space Dye Vest - DREAM THEATER

Alice In Chains - 17th Nov HMV Forum Review

2009-11-19T23:13:00.006Z

It’s been nearly 10 years since my brother enlightened my ears with the unique, heavy riffing that created my fixation with the band Alice In Chains. That riff was ‘Man in the Box’, and at the HMV Forum on Tuesday, that riff, sounded just as superior and commanding as it did all those years ago.

The tragic death of front man Layne Staley in 2002; a man that could haunt and vigour your emotions with his words and matchless vocal style, and the band’s hiatus in the late 90’s, meant that the decision to reunite with a new front man would be no easy task. Then again selling out 2 London shows at the HMV Forum & adding another at Brixton for December, as well as selling out an intimate show at the London Scala in August, is just as hard especially in this climate, and yet this is exactly what Alice In Chains have managed to accomplish, proving just how sorely missed this influential band has been.

William Duvall’s presence not only cemented his worth as vocalist but as a musician. His talents can be heard on the record ‘Black Gives Way to Blue’, but it was his delivery of the opening song ‘Them Bones’ that carried such confidence and seamless accompaniment to Jerry Cantrell and the bands crushing sound that proves he really has come into his own in this band, and deservedly so.

The night continued with Alice pounding through hits and rare tracks. The evocative ‘Rain when I die’ & ‘Sickman’ tore the crowd into a moshing, jumping frenzy. The official live debut of the new of ‘Last of My Kind’ did just as good a job in securing a reaction from the hungry fans.

The acoustic set halfway though calmed things down, with stellar performances of ‘Heaven Beside You’, ‘Got me Wrong’ and the touching and emotionally driven ‘Black Gives Way to Blue’ (a tribute to Layne Staley) There were a couple of technical hinges throughout but nothing that encumbered their performance.

If you’re a fan of the band then you’ll agree in saying welcome back, if not, give them a listen as Alice In Chains are capable of delivering raw power, sensitivity and madness all in one, just listen to ‘DIRT’

Alice in Chains:

Jerry Cantrell - Vocals & Guitar
William Duvall - Vocals & Guitar
Sean Kinney - Drums
Mike Inez -Bass

Set list:

1. Them Bones
2. Dam That River
3. Rain When I Die
4. Check My Brain
5. Your Decisio
6. We Die Young
7. Last of My Kind
8. Sickman
9. Again
10. It Ain't Like That
11. Heaven Beside You
12. Got Me Wrong
13. Black Gives Way To Blue
14. Nutshell
15. Lesson Learned
16. Angry Chair
17. Man in the Box
18. Encore:
18. Acid Bubble
19. Would
20. Rooster

JERRY CANTRELL - G&L Rampage Signature Guitar

2009-11-15T15:41:00.021Z

I loved and still do awe at Jerry Cantrell's G&L guitars, especially his Rampage models .His beat up, distressed, sticker & alcohol stained, infested wooden glories are as imprinted in my mind as much as Alice In Chains' music. As a guitar player, wishing and praying that a miracle would happen and that somehow one of these babies would end up in my hands was quite frankly...a distant one. But now thanks to G&L one of these bad boys can actually be yours...well not Jerry's actual one, but certainly similar model as customized by Jerry and G&L ,to bring you the closest thing to that mighty Rampage as you could ever own. The original was made in it's hundreds making it a rare guitar, especially since produciton only ran for 4 years; 1984-1988! They were made in that 1980's super-strat vein but now it's back, and hopefully for a longer period of time. It's available in two models; the 'tribute' (import model) & the U.S version. Main differences come in the hardware / pickups, here are all the details courtesy of the clips below...Including further info on Jerry's gear One with Jerry himself giving us a little tour and the second featuring his guitar tech 'Punk Rock Dave':

Alice In Chains is currently on tour, kicking some major butt!

G&L Offical site, Jerry's RAMPAGE

SUMMER NAMM 09 - G&L RAMPAGE

RIG RUNDOWN 1

RIG RUNDOWN 2

ALICE IN CHAINS - 2009 UK TOUR BEGINS IN GLASGOW BARROWLANDS

2009-11-13T14:11:00.009Z

Alice In Chains tore through a ripping set of classics and new material last night in Glasgow. Judging from the setlist and online clips, the band as ever, is on force and out to once again cement their position as one of the premier rock bands out there. William Duvall is certainly performing with justice and his vocals sound fantastic even on the medium quality clips, a full review of next weeks London gig will be up Tuesday...for now here's last night's set:

It Ain't Like That
Again
Check My Brain
Them Bones
Dam That River
Your Decision
God Am
Acoustic set
Down In A Hole
Heaven Beside You
Black Gives Way To Blue
Got Me Wrong
No Excuses
Rain When I Die
Acid Bubble
Angry Chair
A Looking In View
Man in the Box
Encore:
Lesson Learned
Would?
Rooster

Click here for an article on the album Black Gives Way To Blue and the band's 'reincarnation'

Dates are:

Glasgow Barrowlands – November 12

Birmingham Academy – November 13

Manchester Academy – November 14

London HMV Forum- November 16/17 &

Nottingham Rock City Dec 6th

Brixton Academy Dec 7th

AC / DC - BRIAN JOHNSON INTERVIEW

2009-11-12T14:42:00.004Z

Great interview with AC/DC frontman Brian Johnson courtesy of absolute radio. Check out his book 'Rockers and Rollers',

Interview here

Recently the AC/DC frontman stunned the TOP GEAR team by going to the top, well just about : TOPGEAR Clip

And in other news:

“Would you like me to sign it?” asked the customer.

“Er... who are you?” replied David.

“I’m the singer.”

Yes, the scruffy geezer was AC/DC front man Brian Johnson, whose gravelly voice is one of the most familiar in rock music'

RAMMSTEIN LIVE RETURN - LISBOA, PORTUGAL 8.11.09

2009-11-09T15:45:00.014Z

Manuel Lino (This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2.5 License)

Rammstein returned to the live stage last night in Lisbon to commence their new tour in support of the 'Liebe ist fur alle da' album. The show looks stunning and the songs seem to sound incredible live (judging from youtube clips). Looking forward to Wembley Arena.

Photo slideshow HERE at bottom of page, AND HERE - MORE

Check youtube for various clips. Here's one:

Greatest songwriters you might have never heard of...Part 1 : Nick Cave

2009-11-08T21:50:00.010Z

"through the windswept coastal trees, where the dead come rising from the sea",

Front man to Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, former front man of The Birthday Party, Nick Cave is indisputably one of the most talented singer/songwriters of all time. His poetic lyrics and jazz, rock, blues, early goth influenced fusion stands as some of the most important music of the last 25 years. Albums such as 'Tender Prey', 'The Boatman's Call' or 2004's double album, 'Abattoir Blues/The Lyre of Orpheus' cement this musician's place within modern music. His strong partnership with Warren Ellis (a member of the Bad Seeds), has led to writing and recording of several soundtracks to popular films such as; 'The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert' Ford' & 'The Proposition'. Also an author, cave has presented his quirky, dark comedy in; And The Ass Saw The Angel & the recent The Death of Bunny Munro. His talents and accomplishments have been recognised by critics and awarded by magazines such as MOJO, and of course the fans that continue to support his position upon the plinth of great songwriters. May he continue to intrigue, inspire and enlighten us.

Recommended listening:
- Into My Arms
- Easy Money
- Mercy Seat
- Midnight Man
- Ship Song

Official web: HERE
Review of 'Abattoir Blues/The Lyre of Orpheus': HERE

Nick Cave playing'Into My Arms':

FIREWORKS : Deep Sea Creatures or Outer Galactical Nebulae?

2009-11-08T19:00:00.007Z

Some firework photos, taken over the weekend, really led me to thinking about the outer and deeper extremities...of our marvellous universe.

DU HAST - 'New RAMMSTEIN tour rehearsal footage'

2009-11-06T15:19:00.005Z

Good things come in 3:

Footage from the private Halloween rehearsal:

Also, a complete gallery of new and recent 'Liebe Ist Fur Alle Da' promo pictures has been uploaded on online by photograher P.R BROWN:

http://www.bauda.com/photography/2/
All images are copyright of BADU-DA/P.R Brown

Article about video shoot for the new single: 'Ich Tu Dir Weh', here

'Hours fly like minutes...' - Morrissey at Alexandra Palace review: 5.11.09

2009-11-06T14:17:00.018Z

After the rough start to his 'Years of Refusal' tour back in May, Morrissey's reschedules were once again faced with trouble. His 'collapse' at Swindon Oasis in October led many to think that this would be it as far as the rest of the tour was concerned. But due to demand the Mozzer was able to add another date to his UK schedule as the last of his 5 London appearances this year, (3 Brixton Academy dates, 1 Royal Albert Hall date & 1 Alexandra Palace date)and is now promoting his B-Sides collection, 'Swords'.

On this occasion I was lucky enough to stand, where as at RAH, I felt somewhat disconnected and distanced from the atmosphere of the crowd below, and the band...the circle seats at the RAH felt cold and separate... was it perhaps the uninspired ambience around me? Or did they feel the same the same detachedness ?

At what seemed to be a near sell out crowd was first met with 'Doll and the Kicks'. An interesting band with good pop, Bjorke-sque vocals. The lead singer 'doll' was casting a rather interesting and aptly named silhouette as the focused spotlight created a mannequin - toy like performance on the backdrop. Having never heard their music before this gig; as I missed them at the RAH, I thought the Brighton four-piece had a heavy bass lading groove, with indie flavoured guitar licks and a solid beat that laid the platform for Doll's 'Gwen Stefani' like phrasing and confident stage moves.

Catch them on myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/dollandthekicks

'Doll's mannequin shadow'

It was time for the main act, and Morrissey's entrance was greeted with a strong applause and cheer as the 50 year old Mancunian belted into a heavier guitar based version (as he is known to do) of The Smiths classic; 'This Charming Man'. The crowd were in good spirits and Morrissey was in good conversation and joking which was a good sign. Having said this, his performance although strong was at times dubious, as he mumbled certain words, or shunned them out at times as if out of breath. This did not however over power the concert. As new tracks such as 'I'm Throwing my arms around Paris', or the Smiths 'Is It Really So Strange?' proved to be great crowd sing a longs and were played with justice and emotion. Certain B-Sides were also met with strong rapture, as 'Ganglord' worked fantastically with Morrissey's lyrics and the light show. 'How Soon Is Now?' was also a great example and demonstrated the strength behind the band's technical crew, as Jesse Tobias replicated Johnny Marr's tremolo anthemic intro to the flashing epileptic lighting effects. The band with 'Boz' as musical director were certainly on form and were the backbone for Morrissey's emotionally delivered singing. However the occasional questionable moments did beg whether he has returned to full fitness or whether this was a one off? Every artist has moments where minor mistakes are uncontrollable and this could have very well been the case, and let's hope so, as Morrissey still has a Liverpool date to complete as well as U.S stretch of his now titled 'SWORDS' tour.

Plenty of info and debate here : http://www.morrissey-solo.com/

Set List:

This Charming Man / Black Cloud / When Last I Spoke To Carol / Is It Really So Strange? / First Of The Gang To Die / Ganglord / Cemetry Gates / I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris / Teenage Dad On The Estate / Ask / Moon Over Kentucky / How Soon Is Now? / Because Of My Poor Education / One Day Goodbye Will Be Farewell / Death At One's Elbow / The World Is Full Of Crashing Bores / The Loop / Irish Blood, English Heart / I'm OK By Myself // Something Is Squeezing My Skull

'The British Icon in the spotlight'

Lemmy & Dave Lombardo -'Stand by Me'

2009-11-05T12:09:00.001Z

Brilliant.

MOTÖRHEAD 2009 UK tour dates:

11/11/2009	UK	Plymouth Pavillion	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/12/2009	UK	Bristol Colston Hall	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/13/2009	UK	Newport Centre	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/15/2009	UK	Swindon Oasis	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/16/2009	UK	Nottingham Royal Concert Hall	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/17/2009	UK	Newcastle City Hall	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/19/2009	UK	Glasgow Academy	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/20/2009	UK	Leeds Academy	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/21/2009	UK	Manchester Apollo	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/23/2009	UK	Cambridge Corn Exchange	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/24/2009	UK	Southend Cliffs Pavilion	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/25/2009	UK	Portsmouth Guildhall	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/27/2009	UK	Bournemouth Solent Hall	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/28/2009	UK	London Hammersmith Apollo	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL
11/29/2009	UK	Wolverhampton Civic Hall	Get Tickets	THE DAMNED & GIRLSCHOOL