Brian Anthony's Heavy Accent

Reunion?????????????????????????

2010-11-03T15:54:00.002-04:00

Ozzy is once again speaking about a Black Sabbath reunion. I remember seeing Black Sabbath's "final" show. It was at Jones Beach theater back in August of 2000. Ten years ago. Sabbath Drummer Bill Ward was so emotional about the final show that he took the time to write with pen on a piece of loose leaf paper "End Of Black Sabbath" and scotch tape it to his drum kit. I'm a huge Sabbath fan. I believe they were the first, NOT ZEPPELIN, heavy metal band. The Blue Print for which other bands construct their sound with. I saw Sabbath three times on that tour. The show lasted maybe 80 minutes. The set list was the same. EVERY NIGHT. Same order. Same introductions. Same everything. You would think by the last night at Jones Beach they'd have thrown fans SOMETHING just to help fight their own boredom but they just lazily plodded through their final set. I'm telling you this because Ozzy's recent tour with his new solo band has been phenomenal. Did you see what he's been closing his shows out with? Fire In The Sky. FIRE IN THE SKY!!!!!!!! Off of Zack Wylde's album debut with the Prince of Darkness, 1987's No Rest For The Wicked. Hadn't been played in decades. He's pulling out Shot In The Dark. His shows are up to TWO HOURS FIFTEEN MINUTES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The last Ozzfest clocked in at 75 minutes. WITH A SOLO FROM ZACK.

I just have a feeling he'll just fall in line with another Sabbath tour, play the same 12 songs we've been paying to see since they reunited back in 1997, and go through the motions for ten months. He's spoken out against the rest of Sabbath's greed and laziness as far back as 1984 when the group reunited for a disastrous one off gig at Live Aid in Philadelphia. Ozzy missed a ton of shows during the last Ozz Fest tour. If Sabbath is going to reunite AGAIN, let's hope it's for REAL. Fans will get their money's worth and the band will WORK to make that happen

It Doesn't Count Any More

2010-10-23T20:31:00.002-04:00

A good friend of mine teaches high school. The stories she comes home with involving petty jealousy, selfishness and senses of entitlement actually worry me as the direction our society is taking seems to be plummeting further south by the day.
Then she tells me about the students. Last week was the glorious home coming dance in which my friend coordinates as a responsibility that attaches itself to running the student government. Teenage girls furiously rush through a ritual of beautification activities. Teenage boys practice speech, struts and body language in front of the largest mirror in their homes for hours. Parents of teenagers age a decade that night. Each year permission slips are sent out to parents weeks before the dance with a list of rules and regulations listed on them including pick up time for their kids at the end of the dance. For the most part parents comply with the basic requests and the dances go off without a hitch, but a strange phone call almost derailed my friends perfect score of getting the dance finished without incident. A parent called to find out what accommodations were being made for the Phillies game which they had tickets to. It seems the game would not be over by the time dance ended and this concerned parent wondered aloud to my friend how the school would make sure their kids would be safe until they could find the time to pick them up. When the parent was informed that not only would no adjustments be made to the plan but the game would not be shown during a school dance inside a school cafeteria for his precious child, this parent became irate, informing my friend of her selfish attitude.

Does anybody fear or even prepare for consequence anymore or does everyone think there is an infinite supply of rule changes that will accommodate whatever adjustment someone requests? Apparently there is.

The NFL drastically changed its penalty rules after a rash of injuries took place during week 6. Desean Jackson from the Philadelphia Eagles looked like he was dead. It took him a good ten minutes just to get back to his feet after getting creamed by by Atlanta Falcons Corner Back Dunta Robinson. I argue the hit was clean but this incident coupled with a few others have inspired the NFL to inflict startling new penalties for helmet to helmet illegal tackles. The problem with this is what happens if its an accident? Accidents. Remember them? They're not allowed anymore. Consequences are truly illegal today. Football is a violent sport. Its downright brutal. Where is the outcry for boxers to stop causing brain damage to their opponents which is actually the purpose of the sport. You want your opponent beaten to the point where getting back to his feet is an impossibility. Football players actually have it a lot easier wherever saftey precautions and protection are involved. Sure there are risks. There are many risks in life. These men are paid for their risks. Sometimes accidents happen. Now a player has to pull back just a little further, think about his opponents safety more when his job is to knock him so silly he drops the ball, in case a hit becomes illegal with one shift of his opponents shoulders, one drop of his opponents head renders a legal tackle illegal. Whatever happened to risks? No one WANTS to see someone else injured but you can only go so far to prevent it before we're all watching low impact semi contact chess for fun.
There needs to be consequences and as adults, we need to risk them in order to achieve what we desire. We're taking the passion out of EVERYTHING by turning this society into a bunch of whining, self centered, female reproductive organs

The Passion Of Our Vice

2010-10-18T21:07:00.002-04:00

Did you ever have an argument with a drunk person? Why? Why the fuck would you engage in a fight you can't win no matter how many facts you lay out, and how many points you make? It's the passion in us I guess. Pride and passion. You know you cant win, but you'll go down swinging because you won't be silenced for what you believe in. It's part of being We The People. Last week My buddy Sean named Tea Party candidate Christine O'Donnell as his dumbass of the day on his morning show. She not only couldn't name a Supreme Court case she didn't agree with but said she would post her answers to her web site later that night. When Sean posted the results of his Dumbass Of the Day poll to his Face Book page, a cyber war broke out that I helped fuel. I knew I couldn't win a political argument. No one can. If you think you EVER won a political argument with someone, I'll get drunk tonight and explain to you why you didn't you win shit. Someone on Sean's friends list took offense to Gods choice Christine ODonnells status and blamed the media for portraying her in a less than flattering light. When I shot back some simple facts like Christine O'Donnell listed three colleges on her educational resume that had no record of her ever being there, owes over ten thousand dollars in back taxes, and made 5000 dollars in 2009 which to me is a glaring indication that her plan to create jobs might not be the greatest. The O'Donnell supporter didn't back down. He didn't have an answer for any of my FACTS but he responded with: "Everybody lies". Then he proceeded to tell me that Obama was a liar and a Marxist and blah blah blah. The guy didn't care about the facts. He believed in something and NOTHING was gonna get in his way. That's passion.

Ever argue with someone about music? Bruce Springsteen is an average guitarist at best and if you look closely during certain songs, he doesn't seem to be playing at all. He crams five lines of lyrics into one line of music like a dying man desperate to get it all off of his chest before its too late and his voice sounds like feline rape victims final cry into the night sky. On paper Bruce Springsteen is a shitty musician. I've seen the guy with the technically poor songs and the phantom guitar work bring his gravely voice to 11 arenas over 23 occasions which is laughable to the "average" Springsteen fan. I can't explain why I do it but I'll fight you to the death if you tell me the Boss sucks. An adult who spends his last dime on touring the country to see their favorite band? It's insane. It's absurd. It's awesome. Christine O'Donnell is a rock star right now. Watch Oreilly. Watch Beck. When they scream at a guest, do you listen to what's being said or did the guy who's side you're on "win" the debate already? It doesn't matter. They're OUR people and sometimes passion blinds us from the evidence in front of us. Christine ODonnell can't do any wrong to her backers. Relax right wingers, Obama supporters have their goggles on too. It may not be the safest thing to use passion goggles with politics, but it's out of love for what you believe in that makes us drunk with the passion to believe what we believe in might be more important that a few facts here and there.
And if you rag on me for loving the Boss I have the passion to get drunk and kick your ass

The Greatest ROCK songs of all time

2010-10-11T12:26:00.002-04:00

Rolling Stone did this list about fifteen years ago and chose to go with 100 songs. So you had 90 songs picked out of a hat and slapped down on a piece of paper and then 10 that arguably made sense as to why one rock songs was better than the other. All this stuff has been, is now, and always will be subjective. It doesn't mean we can't argue about it. What I don't understand is what people even consider rock any more. During the late 90's I found Jewel in the rock section of a corporate music store. So what I did, was take five songs, FIVE, that weren't just rock but to me represented the definition of what a Rock song IS.

Love Removal Machine- The Cult: I don't care what your opinion is, THAT'S a fucking rock song. Its got a great riff, heavy intro and a little cowbell. You don't need anything else to make a great rock song

You Shook Me All Night Long- ACDC: The Power chord sounding is all time best this side of Tony Iommi. There is an old saying, which isn't actually a saying but more of a mantra dedicated to a lifestyle choice. SEX, DRUGS, and ROCK AND ROLL. This song is all of that. In everybody's individual thought, the girl Brian Johnson sings about looks different. She could be a brunette, she could be tall, chubby, British, whatever, but she's something to strive for and the goal of getting out on the streets in search of some love inside those AMERICAN THIGHS. If this isn't rock then please tell me what is?

Sweet Child Of Mine- Guns and Roses: So many of rock's best work is about a girl. Rarely though does an artist leave himself so vulnerable after tearing his heart out for a girl. Axl Rose is one of rocks bad boys, and Guns and Roses is one of the most baddass, kick ass bands in the stratosphere, so the heart wrenching lyric of "Her hair reminds me of a warm safe place where as a child I'd hide, and wait for the thunder and the rain to quietly pass me by" might get drowned out by Matt Sorums thunderous beat, Duff's powerful bass line, and one of the greatest guitar intros to ever grace our presence.

Free Bird- Lynard Skynard: Go to any concert. See that blind opera singer and chances are some drunken wise ass who got dragged to the show by a potential conquest might yell out for FREE BIRD during the encore. It's been a part of American rock history since the day it was introduced to us. Losing close friends and family is a part of life, one that won't go away no matter how painful it might be. This song took an inevitable pain and turned it into something as beautiful to embrace as death is difficult to understand. By the time the six minute plus solo kicks in, you've been floored by those simple and honest lyrics, and you're just waiting to be lifted away

Born to Run- Bruce Springsteen: We all have been desperate to move forward. Weather it was getting out of parents house, high school, college, a new job, the state, the country, we all wanted to take that next step which was as scary as it was exciting, and we wanted someone to take it with. All of that desperation, and angst was suppressed in Bruce Springsteens heart for 25 years and let out the moment he sang the opening line. He never took a breath through the entire song, and by the songs end he ran out of words but NOT THE NEED TO BE HEARD. Tramps like us. Prisoners of rock. Music that helped us escape through the years, and the same music we'll never escape

These songs. To me. This is the definition of rock

"Well Maybe It's You Who Aint Got It Anymore"

2010-10-11T11:36:00.002-04:00

You know there are music snobs out there like me and then there are pretentious assholes who could justify murdering or the burning down of their own home if that's what the artist "really wanted to do."

Over the weekend I saw the band Brad, which is Stone Gossard from Pearl Jam's side band. What makes this band so special to see is that they represent an entire movement that started in Seattle's late 80's music scene. Drummer Regan Hagar and Stone used to be in Mother Love Bone, Singer Shawn Smith and Regan were in Satchel and Brad has a small but passionate and dedicated fan base. What I was expecting last night was the band to return the feeling. Although Mother Love Bone died with Andrew Wood, their spirit is remembered by many with a love for this music, so when Brad came out and played a few Satchel songs, I figured a tribute to the band many believe started it all wouldn't be far behind, now maybe. (I'm such a geek) The shock of this concert wasn't that they only did one Mother Love Bone song. The shock was that singer Shawn Smith who was NOT in Mother Love Bone sat at his keyboard and sang MLB's Crown Of thorns by himself while Stone Gossard and Regan Hagar who WERE in Mother Love Bone AND helped write the damn song sat back stage and drank tea or whatever these guys do. The second shock was that Shawn Smith took this song with a beautiful melody and piano riff and played it to the tune of Prince's Purple Rain. I'm not kidding. He did Purple Rain, and then he sang Crown Of Thorns over it. It was insulting. You see there ARE fans who care about this stuff, who followed the history of WHY they bought a concert ticket, and WHY they are spending their valuable time watching a band. Having Shawn Smith sing some lines of a Mother Love Bone song over another seemed like a throw in done in haste to satisfy that annoying part of the audience who DARES get their money's worth. Just don't do the song. Brad is a mellow band with almost Jack Johnson style songs, just a whole lot more meaningful, but they do have some harder songs. The way they simply threw a whole bunch of songs down without reason or care for the flow of the set makes me wonder about who's actually at fault for the music industry's demise. I wrote a few weeks ago about how people just don't care anymore about things like music and movies and complex TV shows. Maybe its due to the artists not caring anymore. Watching Shawn Smith run from the main microphone placed in the center of the stage over to his keyboard set over to the left a half a dozen times took as much out of my interest as his tribute to man formerly relevant to fucking Alternative Rock band concert. I was told by the guy next to me that I was being selfish. Me, the guy who spent 30 bucks on a ticket and three times that on four beers and a diet coke (I'm watching my girlish figure)This "gentleman" informed me that the artists are NOT there to play for me. They are displaying their passion in public and me and my hard earned money should be honored to be a part of it. So consumer satisfaction is off the table when it comes to "art."
There are many who think this way. The sad thing about this mentality is the absence of one very simple fact: Its called the fucking music BUSINESS for a reason. An artist needs to recognize the reasons why their audience is standing there and do what they can satisfy that while expressing their art. Artists that REFUSE to play certain songs because they are sick of them, and refuse to acknowledge their significant air play by only playing track's 3 and 9 of every album fail to appreciate the only fucking reason their mortgages are paid off. The AUDIENCE is the CUSTOMER. If you don't want to feel like a prostitute , don't sell your albums. When someone buys a ticket to a concert, its a pact. Not a contract. A pact. A pact that you'll be sharing a common emotion, common love for something. To see Bruce Springsteen denying the audience the time honored sing-a-longs on the Magic Tour was watching a man literally tear apart his own legacy. After years of bonding with the crowd over passionate call and response segments of every show, 2007 was the year Bruce decided to say too bad, thanks for coming. Ironically enough, it was Bruce who was quoted in Crawdaddy magazine 30 years ago talking about how a kid in Cleveland only has a ticket to Cleveland and not Detroit or Houston, so as an artist you only have one shot to play for that kid in Cleveland. Springsteen got the message as the empty seats spread through the stadium and by his next tour he was taking request signs from people and giving thousands a memory exclusive to their own 89.95 ticket or whatever it was. Other bands need to find their way back. We appreciate your work, and we respect your desire to share your art with us. To make music work again, an artist needs to reciprocate that respect by honoring the reasons why the audience in the first place. People do still care out there, and if rock music is gonna survive, these artists need to care about THEM again.

A Hand In This Insanity

2010-10-07T18:13:00.003-04:00

Fucking people. You have that lunatic tea bag party chick Christine O'Donnell wasting my airwaves with bullshit. Ironically enough she's been been jerking voters around for a few few months now after it was discovered she never went to or even graduated from the colleges she said she did, owes over ten grand in back taxes and has been living off her campaign money. Why is this all so Ironic? The chain yanking queen has been exposed as a major opponent of masturbation.

Seriously. This is not a joke. There are people out there who are against loving thyself before thy neighbor and other people actually vote them into office. Why are we so fucking uptight over sex? I'm just asking, if priests could marry, do you think so many Alter Boys would still be backing out of church in fear of stepping into some holy shit? Isnt that why staright guys have gay sex in prison, because there are no woman around? Forcing anyone away from sex is usually a bad idea. If we stopped worrying so much about what makes us feel good and stopped forcing such an unnatural thought, maybe we'd all be a little less likely to cap a bullet in the head of the gansta who disrespects us? Didn't Christine O Donnell
look like someone who really needs to get laid? Do these teenagers really think they're fooling God when they marry at 17 and turn fornication into just a whole bunch of failed procreation? What about teh girls who take in in the ass because technically its not a sin against god that way and WHERE THE HELL WERE THOSE GIRLS WHEN I NEEDED THEM? Why not just stop the bullshit and admit sex is good, it harms NO ONE if its consensual, and it makes everyone better for having it? Sex never hurt a single person. Maybe a few heart attacks but what a way to go. All of that sex addiction garbage? If more men were smooth we'd all be in sex anonymous.

Tomorrow......Then I Can Shut The Fuck Up

2010-09-30T18:01:00.003-04:00

The Gracious Few is coming to the TLA. FINALLY!!!!! Since my JSE days, you have heard me carry on about this band. I never made a secret about my love for Candlebox and JSE played the snot out of Live. Therefor, you've probably listened to me rave like a lunatic for MONTHS when news of Candlebox lead singer Kevin Martin joining the members of Live broke. For me this is having sex while watching the Giants win a Superbowl. Two of my favorite, most UNDERRATED bands are coming to a small club, playing some amazing music that they've written for the occasion, and charging me TEN BUCKS to get in. Three years ago ten bucks was just about two gallons of gas. If you like one song by each of these guys and haven't picked up the Gracious Few album, you'll get more than your ten bucks worth seeing one of rocks greatest voices EVER and one of the most musically unique bands of ANY generation play together. The video I posted is called Crying Time. Seriously, I am a very hetero sexual male, but this guys voice really makes me question that from time to time. Anyway JSE fans, I miss the fuck out of you. It's been a while. Stop down at the TLA and lets have a few while rocking out. What a band to see while catching up huh?

Rushing To Dodge A Bullet?

2010-09-30T17:38:00.003-04:00

A few days ago the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame announced its 2011 inductees and Rush was not included in the group. Okay Rush fans, you have a point. Let me put in in perspective for you though. The Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame lost all credibility in 2000 when they inducted the Loving Spoonful, a 60's band who had a handful of pop hits like many 60's pop bands did. They didn't however revolutionize a genre of music the way Black Sabbath did who at the time in 2000 were eligible for five years and still had not been inducted into the Hall Of Fame. Yeah I know that doesn't make you feel better. How about this fact then? Off the top of my head I can name four musicians in recent years who have died within four months of their hall of fame induction. Joey Ramone died a little before Eddie Vedder inducted them in, and Dee Dee Ramone died a few months later. Joe Strummer was a punk innovator but fell short by about three months of seeing his band the Clash get inducted into the Hall Of Fame. Bobby Hatfield wasnt related to Bill Medley but he left the Ritchous Brothers a man short soon after getting inducted into the Hall Of Fame. Not exactly the 27 club Jimi, Janice, Jim, Brian Jones, and Kurt Cobain made famous, but it might ease your pain about your favorite Canadian trio getting left out in the cold again. Do I like Rush? No. I can't stand them. I would rather be stripped naked, cut open, bathed in salt, and listen to Ann Coulter speak than sit through a Rush album. That's just my opinion. Who the Fuck am I? Do I think they deserve to get in over this years inductees of the Beastie Boys, Bon Jovi, and LL Cool J? Of Course I do. Then again, who the fuck am I.

Taboo Songs

2010-09-27T17:28:00.002-04:00

I got caught at a red light singing to Bon Jovi's Bad Medicine the other day. NOT MY PROUDEST moment but it got me thinking. There are times in a guys life when he needs to know certain songs so that the softer sex can think he's sensitive. So what are the ten songs that girls love to dance to, make out to, and explore each crevice of the back seat of that Mitsubishi Spider to, yet wont make you feel like YOU should be the one bending over?

10- GIRL ALL THE BAD GUYS WANT- Bowling For Soup

Sure it's a little poppy, and immature. Like downing 4 beers before happy hour prices ends isn't? It's a great sing along song. The best part is the bridge. After whining for two verses about how the world stops when this girl walks into the room, and how she's the perfect woman for him, he sums up the true motive of every human that pees standing up : "ALL I WANTED WAS TO SEE HER NAKED!!!!!!!!!!!" Somehow girls love this song

9- SANTERIA - Sublime- It's no secret I prefer the heavy stuff, but this is THE grind against your girl/guy song on the dance floor of any bar. With your half priced beer in one hand, your special no no place grinding against someones thigh, and screaming about capping Sancho's punk ass, this song makes it a good night

8- SWEET CAROLINE - Neil Diamond- Yeah we wouldn't be caught dead playing Neil Diamond on JSE, but I guarantee you EVERYBODY at Jse knows this song word for word. It's built for drunken sing alongs. It's got places designed to fit your off key vocals all over it's 2 minutes and 21 seconds of awesomeness

7- MY OWN WORST ENEMY - LIT- Lit actually had a few decent songs in the late 90's. Miserable, Addicted and Over My Head were solid middle of the mix CD songs for a long road trip. Their first big single however is still being butchered by low talent cover bands across the nation. It doesn't brag about being a total F*%K UP, but it helps you celebrate the fact that your still alive "Please Tell me why my car is in the front yard, I'm sleeping with my clothes on......"

6- SUMMER OF 69 - Bryan Adams - Real simple. Certain songs get a free pass. I know your mom loves this song. I know it's written by the same guy who sings that horrible Robin Hood, Everything I Do For You song. I know I shouldn't like it. I love it. Any song that celebrates the nights your working so hard to have right now is good. Letting it all go on a Friday night with your best friends. Songs about doing things you can only do with the best of friends. Any song about playing in bands, drinking, eating wings, listening to great songs, and a finding the perfect place to party, is a great song.

5- GLORY DAYS - Bruce Springsteen - I grew up on the Boss. Sorry had to throw it in there

4- ENTER SANDMAN - Metallica - It was the beginning of the end of Metallica's integrity. The Black Album wasn't as bad as S and M or Reload, but songs that tore your face off like Harvester of Sorrow and Seek and Destroy were a thing of the past. When people party to your songs at weddings? Your not a bad ass band anymore. People love to scream the chorus, they stir when they hear Nuestead's bass intro, and they ......dance? Hey man, that's why this list is about songs that make you feel like you're selling your soul. Metallica sure as F*&K did

3- RUNAROUND SUE - Dion - See songs 8,6, and 5

2- LIVING ON A PRAYER - Bon Jovi - This is New Jersey right? It transcends genres, time and age. It's just a good song. To a guy with a tattoo of Ozzy Osbourne on his left arm, this is the true definition of a guilty pleasure

1- YOUR LOVE - The Outfield - I'm gonna let this one speak for itself. If you don't believe me, pop it on any jukebox, in any bar, in New Jersey tonight and watch what happens

Can't Buy Love and Affection?

2010-09-27T16:11:00.002-04:00

You know, there are comebacks I've been waiting on my whole life. Since 2000 I waited for Pantera to kick my ass again until 2004 when some piece of garbage took that dream away. I'm still waiting on Guns and Roses. Hell, I'm now waiting on Velvet Revolver. There's a ton of bands out there that we're all desperatly waiting to see again, so you might understand my disapointement by the latest reunion?

This is from Blabbermouth.net:

"Lightning Strikes Twice", the new album from NELSON, is scheduled for release on November 5 in Europe via Frontiers Records.

On September 29, 1991 NELSON reached the height of the U.S. single chart with their evergreen hit "(Can't Live Without Your) Love And Affection". Their music has stood the test of time and now 20 years later Matthew and Gunnar Nelson explore fresh creative territory in the present with their new album, "Lightning Strikes Twice".

The new album goes straight back to the absolute brilliance of NELSON's first album, hence the title, featuring an amazing set of songs that are going to restore the faith in NELSON"

Look, on the air I never tried to let my true feelings about bands or songs out in fear of insulting a listener with a different view point. This time I'm going on my better judgement here by thinking no one reading this will get offended when I ask: WHO THE FUCK CARES ABOUT NELSON??????????? That line about this album restoring our faith in Nelson. Did they ever SEE the video for Love and Affection

Sex or Violence: What Hurts More?

2010-09-27T15:25:00.003-04:00

Seriously? Seriously this actually caused parents to react? No movement to improve their children's education, No anger over the violence on T. V. or the public school system being under attack for years but Katy Perry wears a partially revealing dress and hell hath no fury like a mother sheltering her kid. Boobs are awesome. They're better than awesome. They're a necessary part of most Americans lives. So why are most Americans afraid of them? How could seeing a pair of boobs possibly hurt a child? Seriously, what idea could possibly get implanted in a kids head after seeing a woman's rack other than, "Hey, that's my old meals on heals fast food restaurant"
Could Katy Perry's Dress really do more damage to a kids fragile mind than THIS cartoon below?

Why are we so afraid of sex. STILL???? We got here because of sex and we can't talk about it? The Katy Perry controversy isn't even over sex, it's over a human body. A female body. You think we would have so many problems with girls jamming their fingers down their throats if we weren't so goddamn uptight about our BODIES? Violence we can see on T. V. A nude body needs to be swept under the rug and seen behind closed doors only. The second we drop all of this hysteria about nudity, a nude body won't be a big deal to ANYONE any more. What is this, the war on nature?

What's Going On?

2010-09-24T13:02:00.004-04:00

Yo, it's Friday so I'll keep the news short, sweet, and simple to keep your focus on happy hour.

Classic Rock's own Bad Company have announced they are planning to hang it up soon, according to the Southwest Times Record. Bad Company probably should have spent more time announcing they were still together

Areosmith's Steven Tyler claims his band mates are jealous of his new job as an American Idol judge alongside Jennifer Lopez and Randy Jackson, according to rockradio.co.uk. As far as I know, J Lo still has her voice box and Randy Jackson? Joe Perry is so much fucking cooler that Randy Jackson it's laughable. I'd rather hang out with ZEBRA'S Randy Jackson than American Idol's Randy Jackson. Really Steven, who's behind the door inside that burnt out head of yours?

Heart's Nancy Wilson, the hot one, has filed for divorce after twenty years of marriage with Cameron Crowe. According to the Associated Press, Wilson cited irreconcilable differences as the reason for the divorce. Okay look. I suck at relationships, so I'm not an expert here, but what differences can two people possibly have that would take TWENTY YEARS to realize they won't work out?

Duff McKagen left Janes Addiction after a short stint as the touring bass player to reform Velvet Revolver. Jane's guitarist Dave Navarro told K-ROC out in Cali that Velvet was auditioning singers as we speak. Okay, I know he's a dick but can I make a suggestion? Something tells me a band consisting of Slash, Duff McKagen, and Matt Sorum would sound GREAT with Axl Rose on lead vocals. Call it instinct

I've got more to tell, but happy hour doesn't last forever. I'll talk to you soon

Brad: A Side Of Pearl Jam And A Side Of History

2010-09-23T20:23:00.003-04:00

Next week promises to be capped at both ends with two almost once in a life time concerts. On October 1st at the TLA in Philadelphia I'll be checking out the Gracious Few. I've been talking about them on JSE since the rumors of their formation started 18 months ago and have been as anxious to see these guys as the virgin who landed the town slut as his prom date. The Gracious Few is the sum of Candlebox lead singer Kevin Martin, and the musicians from the band LIVE. Kevin Martin has one of the most exciting, unique, and makes you question the team you play for voices in music and who doesn't love Live, even if you won't admit it. That's not who I want to talk about today though.

BRAD IS COMING!!!!!!! Who the fuck is Brad???????? The closest thing to Mother Love Bone and raw 90's Seattle Sound music that you can get to in 2010? Who the fuck is Mother Love Bone???????? The reason why every 90's song you love ever saw the light of day. What????? Who's Nirvana? Nah I'm just kidding and I'm not trying to take any credit away from the KK trio, but I do want to see credit placed where it's due. So check out the video for more on Mother Love Bone and lets talk about Brad. Brad is a band formed in Seattle back 1992 after Mother Love Bone lead singer Andrew Wood died. The other band to rise from Mother Love Bones ashes was Pearl Jam, so Brad definitely has been left in the dust. Pearl Jam's Stone Gossard is now coming back to his roots and touring with his old band mates Regan Hagar, and Jeremy Toback. You wanna hear where the 90's sound sprouted their roots? Brad is a good place to start. Vocalist Shawn Smith is top notch. You remember the movie Beautiful Girls with Matt Dillon and Uma Thruman? You remember that scene where Dillon shows up at his dates house that he stood up and gets confronted by her mother? The song that plays in between that scene and the ice skating at the park scene is Shawn Smith with his other band Satchel. The song is called Suffering. Brad is a little more laid back, at times treading into dreaded John Mayer territory but edgy enough to forgive the college stoner moments. Mother Love Bone's late lead singer Andrew Wood might be smiling right now. His brother Kevin Wood, who was in the locally influential Malfunskin with him should be joining Brad on tour. From what I understand, all pre Pearl Jam bands these gentleman were in will be represented in concert. That means this is the one chance you have to see some of the best music Seattle has ever produced. Why should you care? I don't know. Half of Alternative radios play list comes from Seattle and the bands influenced by the movement. See the band, then tell me Nirvana invented everything. Sorry. Sorry. Just had to get in one

Below is the report from Anti Music.com

Pearl Jam had this update for fans: Time to get excited cause Brad is hitting the road from September 27th to October 13th in support of their new album Best Friends?. Brad will headline shows in Seattle, Chicago, Philly, Baltimore, and New York.
They will also join forces with Band of Horses for concerts in Des Moines, Cleveland, Columbus, Louisville, Tulsa, St. Louis and Kansas City.

Additionally , the tour will include in-store performances at Ear X-tacy in Louisville and Vintage Vinyl in St Louis plus an appearance on Late Night With Jimmy Fallon (full list of tour dates follow).

To hear a track off their new album Best Friends ?, check out their single Believe In Yourself here

BRAD TOUR DATES

Sept 27 Seattle, WA High Dive
Sept 28 Seattle, WA High Dive
Oct 1* Des Moines, IA Val Air Ballroom
Oct 3 Chicago, IL Double Door
Oct 4* Cleveland, OH House of Blues
Oct 5* Columbus, OH LC Amphitheater
Oct 6 Louisville, KY Ear X-Tacy (in-store)
Oct 6* Louisville, KY Brown Theatre
Oct 8 Philadelphia, PA World Cafe Live
Oct 9 Baltimore, MD The Ottobar
Oct 10 New York, NY Bowery Ballroom
Oct 11 New York, NY Late Night with Jimmy Fallon
Oct 12* Tulsa, OK Cain's Ballroom
Oct 13 St. Louis, MO Vintage Vinyl (in-store) www.vintagevinyl.com
Oct 13* St. Louis, MO The Pageant
Oct 14* Kansas City, MO Uptown Theater

Rumors??????????????????

2010-09-22T12:10:00.004-04:00

Not the Fleetwood Mac album. I'm usually not a big fan of ROCK RUMORS. Even if some information is born out of fact, this is the ROCK MUSIC WORLD. By the time it hits the air waves, someone could have ran over a cat, driven off a cliff, and irresponsibly and brilliantly at the same time have done any number of things to turn that fact into an unfounded rumor. I didnt believe the rumor that Marylin Manson was Fred Savage's brother in the Wonder Years. I don't think Jim Morrison faked his death. I would have been dead by 1996 if I held my breath for Pink Floyd to reunite for more than a one off show in London. This though, this is a rumor worth hoping blindly to come true for. Slash. THAT Slash. The one of a kind, kick ass legendary guitarist of Guns and Roses and Velvet Revolver might be touring his awesome solo album by opening for OZZY OSBOURNE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1 Good Bye To Romance. Hello to the Sweetest Child Of Metal Ever. Here's the report from Bravewords.com

According to BraveWords.com sources, SLASH (VELVET REVOLVER, ex-GUNS N' ROSES) is rumored to be taking part in the second leg of OZZY OSBOURNE's North American Scream tour set to begin in early 2011. More news as it develops.

What's Going On????

2010-09-22T11:31:00.004-04:00

Sometimes, what is will always be. Scott Weiland is a train wreck. He's the lead singer of Stone Temple Pilots. Sure. He may be the last true American Rock star we have. He may have written some of the best lyrics the 90's have ever seen. He's also a train wreck. His destructive life style was part of what made the product we love, and it's probably going to tear that prouct away from us as well. It's hard to turn your back on something you love, and even harder to admit that something you love is not as beautiful as what you've convinced your heart that it is? Sound pathetically mushy? Good. I'm going for sensitive. I have a big female audience. My point is, the story below is what Scott Weiland is, and probably will always be. So if you're shocked by any of this, you might just be a little too naive for your own good.

Stone Temple Pilots just cancelled a few shows in Texas. Surprise!!!!! This comes after yet another debacle of a performance by STP front man Scott Weiland, who greeted Houston crowds only 1 hour later than usual and padded the set list with ramblings about his drug addiction and a failed marriage. I know, I know, he's an ARTIST. Who am I to expect fans to see the product they paid for WHEN they paid for it and in a condition worthy of the money they shelled out. According to Canoe.Ca This was Weilands rant

"I believe in music, I believe in rock 'n' roll, I believe in friendship and family. But you know what, on the 8Th December will be time (sic) when I stopped doing dope... I started drinking again. I got divorced, my wife... And my whole world basically spun around and so you know what, I'm gonna take care of myself (now) because that's what I need to take care of... Instead of just having a few shows, I wanna have a whole hell of a lot of shows."

Who doesn't love STP? Four of the best Alternative Rock albums and two okay ones belong to them. I think their best days are way behind them though. I caught them this summer in Camden New Jersey. Besides some of those classics sounding like they were being played in quicksand at times, Weilands stage act looked like a parody of a Scott Weiland stage act, which is really a better Mick Jagger performance than any Stone could Roll out in the last fifty years. It's sad to see legends fall.

Not a Care In The World

2010-09-20T11:37:00.002-04:00

Yo, does anybody give a shit anymore? Seriously. Does anyone care about ANYTHING anymore. I ask this to everyone who is NOT one of the 90,000 that pack football stadiums across the North East every Sunday. Those football fans definitely care about something. With the price of a football ticket these days? They better care. Now how about the rest of the world? Take a look around you and tell me if people are as passionate today about anything as they were around 15-20 years ago. Back in the early 90's Pearl Jam's second album Vs's sold almost 900,000 copies during it's first week alone. Last year they put out Backspacer, a big mainstream comeback album that sold less than 200,000 in it's first week. A lot of the blame that poor album sales get today point toward illegal downloading and You Tube. Some might say the quality of music is just terrible and that's why sales are in the toilet. Have you ever wondered WHY everything sucks though? Could it be because people just don't care anymore, and those who are still interested in whatever junk their fed? Each year I try and make 25-30 concerts a year. Each year I less and less of a volume of voices singing songs back to the bands. 50 years ago the Beatles stood still on Ed Sullivans stage and the earth shook as girls fainted, guys looked on in envy, and parents feared the worst. Now the biggest pop stars in the world wont have a tenth of the career the Beatles did. There won't be a fill-in-the-blank-mania because people just don't care enough. Remember just 15 years ago when the Internet was in it's infancy? You still knew what town Nirvana was from, who the original drummer was, why the resented their own fame, and something about all three members of the band right? Back in 2004 my little brother was 14. He was born smack in the middle of the "information" era. Nirvana was his favorite band. He showed me his Myspace page that was decked out in Nirvana wall paper and sent me pictures of his notebooks with his Nirvana artwork all over them. I related. I used to draw the Ozzy and Randy Tribute album cover all over my notebooks while teachers bothered me with learning. I could tell you everything about Randy Rhoads back in 1992 when i was 14. How he started in Ozzy, how he began his career in Quiet Riot, how he died, when he died, where he died. My 14 year old brother asked me if I would take him to see his favorite band Nirvana when he was old enough. ??????? I slowly began to explain that a heroin addiction and an error in judgement with a shotgun made that impossible TEN years earlier. My brother had no idea. Not he seemed to care much that the lead singer of his "favorite band" had been dead for a decade and he was completely out of the loop. Maybe the reason bands today sing about how no one cares and sound like they don't care is because NO ONE CARES? What about T. V.????? I understood the defense of David Chase's cop out end of the Sopranos. I figured there would be some more outrage over the non ending to a show people followed religiously for 6 seasons over eight years, but the whole artistic aspect of the cut to black at least painted a valid argument. Steven Van Zandt who played Silvio on the show did annoy me with his quote about how people need to understand that they can't always have things their way and in real life, things don't always end the way they want them to. Really Steve? Thanks for the lecture on how hard life can be you multi millionaire, but the Soprano's was a TELEVISION show. In T. V. things have beginning, a middle, and an ending. It's a little insulting to think someone would invest eight years in a show and be okay with it not giving a conclusive ending. I found it more insulting that so many people were okay with it. How about LOST? Lost was a mystery, with intricate plot twists that unfolded with each episode and stretched years. A conclusive ending to that show was very deserving to those who stayed with it for six years. Instead of wrapping up small things like why they traveled through time and made half the cast live in 1977, why some characters were killed and then brought back to life, and who some of these villans were who kidnapped, killed, and manipulated others all in the name of the island over. You know small stuff. The writers scrapped about five years worth of mystery and gave viewers this flowery 1 hour spectacle of about how what you do in life doesn't really matter because you'll all meet up with your true love in heaven when it's over. Instead of getting angry that they invested six years in what became 400 unanswered questions, people swallowed it and accused others of "not getting it." Others said "Its just a T. V. show, so what. I loved the ending" Just a T. V. show? Then why the fuck did you spend six years watching it/ What the hell happened to people? Why would they just accept all of this GARBAGE that's being forced down their throats? When did people lose their passion for things? Sure things aren't pretty in the US right now. They weren't before either and people had the passion to call the country out. Today? No one seems to give a crap about much of anything. Those who watch, listen, read. It seems they only have a passing interest. I'm not expecting any B-O-O-K-S BOOKS BOOKS BOOKS chants in the parking lot of Barnes and Noble, but I am hoping people just start giving a shit again

The Rights of Being Right

2010-09-16T11:10:00.002-04:00

Are you fucking kidding me? The headline alone is insulting in the fact that it's even an issue that's wasting your time. Wasting my time. Everybody's time is being wasted by the "news" of a female sports reporter claiming that she was sexually harrassed in the MENS LOCKER ROOM. I've talked to many about this situation and even those that defend the Jets say that athletes should learn to behave themselves better in front of female reporters. Think about this for second. Men should be on their best behavior because women are entering THEIR locker room. Why? I've been in men's locker rooms. They act like animals. Sometimes, athletes actions in the locker room make you wonder what team these guys actually do play for, but they have their own way of unwinding after a game and no one should have the right to change that because they want in on somebody elses world. We keep sterilizing this society in the name of Political Correctness. Political Correctness is boring. It's vanilla. Political Correctness is also incorrect. Smokers lose their rights to non smokers. Prudish people take away art from those who don't feel vulgarity should be determined by anyone but themselves. There's actually a debate right now about how male athletes should act when a woman enters their locker room. This is a dangerous situation. When do we finally grow a spine and stop letting other people fight our battles? There are schools right now that no longer count spelling as a requirement for a grade because telling children they are spelling words wrong will only hurt their feelings and discourage them from learning. Every body's a victim now. Remember the situation where the teenage girl about 14-15 committed suicide over an e-mail she thought came from a male classmate? It turned out to be a girls mother impersonating a 15 year old boy which WAS sickening, but throughout all the public outrage, no one asked one very simple question: "What the fuck was going through a teenage girls head that would make her so fragile that she killed herself over the insults that came from what she thought was a 15 year old boy?" We heard the word victim a lot. We heard a lot about cyber bullying. We didn't hear about the larger social problem that a few harsh words drove a girl to a self inflicted death. That's the scariest part of that whole story to me. Why did this girl feel the words of this teenage boy were so important that she killed herself over them? This society needs to toughen the fuck up. I feel like this all comes from intrest groups jumping up and down everytime someone says a word someone else doesn't like, which is all the time. No one lets anything roll off their shoulders anymore. Every insult, every joke became a reason to scream injustice. We need to stop worrying about who we're insulting anymore and start growing a thicker fucking skin. Too much worrying about who we're offending has not only watered down our AMERICAN RIGHTS, but also turned us into a spineless group of whiney school girls. Sorry whiney school girls, I didn't mean to upset you.

Ines Sainz is a female reporter who dresses like she's looking to get laid on a Saturday night. Smart strategy. She's smoking hot and it got her noticed. You're fooling yourself if you believe she got anywhere without the slutty outfits and ridiculous body. She entered a men's locker room and there were complaints of athletes making rude comments, and footballs being thrown "in her direction". Now Ines Sainz claims she didn't want to make an accusation of sexually harassment but others were appalled and fought on her behalf. Men in their own locker room. Acting like men in a locker room. What should be so appalling is that anyone thinks Ines Sainz is important enough to change the way a group of people should behave in THEIR domain. When do the football players get their rights? I hate getting burned. I don't stand too close to fires.

Who the F#%K do we think we are??????

2010-09-02T20:28:00.002-04:00

What's up people? I couldn't believe my own eyes when I signed in tonight and saw my last post was June 30th. I want to apologize for forgetting my own attitude for a while. Just because I'm not on the air in A. C. anymore doesn't mean I can't get my opinion heard. So it's my opinion that everything out there pretty much SUCKS right now. T. V. politics, the economy, RADIO, it all fucking sucks, and its all YOUR fault. It's my fault too, relax. We have our heads so far up the asses of every dime store "celebrity" that lucked into 15 minutes of fame to see more than a foot ahead of ourselves. Our president declares the end of the line for the Iraq war last night. I'm in Starbucks, where I'm surrounded by what I presumed to be well educated 20 to 30 year old and you would think maybe just maybe, this monumental moment in U. S. history would be a popular topic? Nope. I was surrounded by half a dozen Latte swigging preppies who were flexing their intellectual muscle by debating weather Snookie deserved to be arrested and sharing the shocking unraveling of the Real House Wives of New jersey reunion special. America, why have we let such JUNK become the focal point of our lives. How stupid have we become to allow Reality T. V. and Political Commentators DICTATE how we think and live? 300,000 people showed up to listen to Glenn Beck speak. Put politics aside for a moment. I don't care who you vote for. When did Glenn Beck, a former top 40 DJ, generate the credentials to get 300,000 people to give a shit about what he has to say? The sad thing is how the words that people like Beck, Bill O'Reilly and Rush Limbaugh speak are mistaken for NEWS. They are not NEWS CASTERS. Their words a merely an opinion. When did we become so weak to let these men think for us? We have allowed ourselves to become distracted with pure junk, and continue to settle for more and more junk by the day. Remember the finale of Lost? For six years, that show had distracted us, entertained us with this complex mystery that twisted and turned into a mind blowing question involving Love, Religion, and Philosophy. The show reached its finale without more than HALF of the mysteries that kept us glued to the set every Tuesday, answered. Not just small stuff. Half of Season Five took place in a time traveled scene during the year 1977. Not even that was addressed. The writers clearly ran out of time to wrap up the show and instead spent the final hour focusing on a bogus reunion in heaven. People were okay with it. People accepted it. They bashed those that were angry by saying they were spoiled. That things dint go your way in real life and we should all accept that. A few years ago, when the Sopranos cut to black and left our balls as blue as a sex starved smurf, Steven Van Zandt was quoted in the papers saying that In Real Life, things don't always get answered and the ending was beautiful. Have we forgotten WHY THE FUCK WE WATCH TELEVISION? Have we all lost the line between entertainment and real life. Do we not care anymore about whats being said to us, who says it, and why? DJ's are now qualified to lead massive political rallies, and TV shows don't need to end at all because life's not fair? What a chubby Staten Island chick is news, and our politicians have to be good moral souls? It was Regan who said that politics was the worlds second oldest profession but it was very similar to the worlds OLDEST profession. We care more about who fucked who and fucked who over, and less about what anyone or anything can be done for us. We accept and excuse JUNK, over and over unto we have what we do today. A generic, boring, and toothless society. Speaking of morals, This country is always after a monogamous god fearing family man to lead us. Glenn beck spoke of such in his rally. He described Adolf Hitler who convinced his masses to murder a whole slew of people based on their religion. We need to be careful America. Go to Glenn Becks rally. Watch T. V. Just recognize what it is your watching and remember that with a little charisma, the wrong people can get you to do whatever they want. We can make this world better, just by standing up and paying better attention

The Death of JSE

2010-06-30T08:27:00.002-04:00

Yo. Sorry it's been a while. The truth is I haven't felt the urge to do the right thing lately and that's wrong on my part. The truth is that Friday is the last day of JSE. After 14 years of being YOUR Alternative Rock radio station, some fat cats are gaga with the notion that South Jersey needs another top 40. So I haven't been as motivated as I should have been and posting video's, news clips, and interviews up on this blog and I apologize for that.

So as of now, Thursday will be my last night and I'm not lying when I say I will miss the fuck out of all of you. The boat cruises, the concerts, hanging out on the Morning Edge, hanging out at the Hard Rock and Chickies and Petes. For two and a half years I was a part of THE best radio station in South Jersey. Now I didnt agree with a lot that went on at that station. I felt you deserved a deeper playlist. How many fucking times can you hear Pearl Jam's Jermey? They have NINE albums and about 400 live CD's. I thought we could have talked longer and entertained you better by cutting the restraints of a 4 second Weezer intro, which was another song beaten to death by JSE. I wanted to do a lot of things that are no longer considered proper to do in radio, which is funny because all you hear about is how radio is not what it used to be. You would think if SOMEONE did radio the way it used to be, maybe the fucking ratings and quality of the product MIGHT be what it used to be?

All of this though is spilled milk, because a poorly run JSE was still head and shoulders above what you're getting now: Dance Party Atlantic City. You know because so many of YOU in SOUTH JERSEY fist pump all night long side by side with your visiting Staten Island buddies. Hey man, that's life. It will go on without JSE, it's just not gonna be as cool. I hope some of you lock in to some old school sounds of the Shark where you'll get some ACDC, Aerosmith, and Lynrd Skynrd to get you through the day. I had a great run. I started out doing weekends on the ACE, and then Sunday nights when the ACE became JSE again and then last year happened. I became JSE's night guy and YOU made me one of the highest rated night jocks in South Jersey. You won 311 tickets, and Drop Kick Murphy tickets and we saw Alice in Chains and laughed like hell when I sodomized Family Guys Peter Griffin. We had a blast and I thank you up and down for it. So no I dont have anything sarcastic to say like usual. I'm too fucking tired for that. It's been an emotional roller coaster for the past two weeks and sorry I've been a little bitch that didn't give his all. No Excuses. For the next two nights, I'll do what I can to give you what you deserve. 48 more hours of the GREATEST RADIO STATION IN SOUTH JERSEY. Thanks for listening

Drunk and Sloppy

2010-06-14T03:28:00.002-04:00

My first thought was DAMN IT, I missed Sweet Child Of Mine. Then I saw this fat drunken biker dude almost kill Slash and kind of froze. The fact that Slash didnt even flinch just proves to me that they dont make guitar players like this anymore

YOU DECIDE

2010-06-07T12:19:00.002-04:00

I talked about this the other day. This is a song by Killing Joke called 80's written in 1984. I guess Kurt Cobain figured 7 years was long enough for people to forget about it before he used the Intro to Come As You Are. You decide. Did Nirvana rip off Killing Joke?

Like seeing your sister naked

2010-05-28T17:27:00.001-04:00

Actually it looks like seeing your brother naked

STP: Better Days Behind Them?

2010-05-28T12:42:00.003-04:00

It sucks getting old. Just an hour ago I was training our new Intern Laura, a 19 year old chick who looks and dresses like a Tom Boy. She came in wash the cars so she wasn't showing up in Church clothes. Amen. So the elder talk host of the A. M. station walks out and asks "IS THAT YOUR SON?" He then proceeded to kick me in the balls, sleep with my girlfriend and, blow up my house. Laura the Intern wasn't insulted. ME at one month before I turn 32 was HIGHLY insulted. SON????? 19 YEARS OLD??????

So I know how Scott Weiland must have felt when he limped out onto the stage at the Susqehana back on Sunday and huffed through a version of Vasoline that sounded like it was dipped in quicksand and strapped to the shell of a turtle pumped on Valium. The first three songs were a little off and it wasn't all Weiland's fault. I'm pretty sure it was the DeLeo brothers on stage but they played like a 19 year old cover band that I might be the father of. The middle of the set list came together so Sour Girl and Plush and the new songs sounded great. Sex Type Thing was an encore and I can't tell you what it sounded like because I was too busy losing my mind as Jerry Mother F@CKING Cantrell from Alice In Chains came out to blaze the solo. Some kid was pulled from the audience to sing the beginning of Dead and Bloated. I hate that kid. He's my idol. Tripping On A Hole In A Paper Heart was the last song and fell apart as badly as VAsoline did. The versus were good, but those pesky kids in my cover band seemed to forget the chord changes into the chorus and made Weiland's slightly off key singing sound a lot worse than it really was. Look, a bad STP concert is a F*&%ing awesome show. It just sucks not being able to rock like your 22 anymore.....or look like your 32

The color of purity

2010-05-28T10:56:00.003-04:00

They are remaking The Karate Kid and Daniel La Russo is now a 9 year old black kid. All I'm gonna say about it is this: Would you get Jim Carrie to play Shaft? Would you give Speedy Gonzalez a Swedish Accent?

Btw, Ralph Macchio is my second cousin by marriage. My Granmothers Sisters husband was his cousin which made me the coolest kid in the history of second grade. Nobody fucked with me out of fear my cousin taught me teh crane technique

Ticket Blitz Friday Password

2010-05-28T10:50:00.002-04:00

The password you need for today after 6 p. m. is Slipknot. It really sucks to lose someone like Paul Gray. Metal has enough problems staying alive without the untimely death of one of it's most important bass players

PASSWORD for Coheed AND Collective

2010-05-20T20:50:00.003-04:00

I'll have a shot at Coheed and Cambria AND Collective Soul tickets for you Friday sometime after 8:00. The ONLY thing you'll need is this password tomorrow when the time comes to call in. The password? Well we lost a legend this week so this one's for RJD: Holy Diver. Just be caller seven tomorrow and say Holy Diver sometime after 8

STP LIVE FRIDAY NIGHT

2010-05-19T11:06:00.002-04:00

Well On your T. V. set anyway

STONE TEMPLE PILOTS will be featured on VH1's "Friday Night Alright" concert series on Friday, May 21 at 11:00 p.m. The performance footage was filmed on March 27, 2010 at Chicago's Riviera Theatre.

Making Of: MGMT Flash Delirium

2010-05-19T11:04:00.002-04:00

http://www.whoismgmt.com/us/news/making-flash-delirium

New footage of MGMT's video FLASH DELIRIUM

Bandwagon About To Tip Over?

2010-05-19T10:07:00.002-04:00

Three Americans play on the Flyers. EVERY other player is Canadian. Last night the classy Philly fans booed the Canadian National Anthem and then cheered wildly for the same guys to win for THEIR team. BTW, I lived in the same town for six years and NEVER noticed all of those Flyers flags hanging out on peoples front porches before. Weird

The Greatest Song You Never Heard: Danzig

2010-05-19T09:58:00.002-04:00

Ever hear the original version of a song AFTER you heard the cover a million times and feel like it's being played in slow motion? You MIGHT get that with the Misfits Last Caress after tearing up parkways and highways with MEtallica's version in your CASSETTE deck. Even so, the other day I talked about Danzing getting back together and before Glenn Danzig formed a band named after himself, he was revoultionizing the punk scene with this song

Life Sucks Sometimes

2010-05-17T20:22:00.003-04:00

Rest in Peace Ronnie James Dio. Little guy. Big presence. I'm not gonna go on and on with how he inspired me and so many musicians. That's been done before. I'm gonna offer up some Dio videos and let his music live on. When you make music like this, you live forever. Ride high tonight Ronnie. Say hello to Randy for me. We miss you

The Greatest Song You Never Heard: The Gracious Few

2010-05-14T06:19:00.003-04:00

I've been talking about this band for a while now. I'm a huge Kevin Martin fan. Candlebox music has spoke to me since I was 14 and the way they capture the honesty, shame, and anger of addicting and coping with it has been an important part of my dealing with really fucked up, difficult issues. Live? Well you cant not like live. If you lived your teen years in the 90's, chances are you made out with someone parked on the water while a Live song played on the radio. They were everywhere for a while. When I found out Kevin Martin was teaming with the members of Live, I figured we might have an album for the summer. This stuff has an our Lady Of Peace but darker feel to it. The first video is good, the second one is Honest Man and that might be my song for the summer

GreenDay Games

2010-05-14T06:14:00.001-04:00

We recently had a chance to speak to Green Day drummer Tre Cool about the upcoming Green Day: Rock Band. The outspoken stickmaster gave us the inside skinny on the band’s involvement in the production of the game, the exciting unlockable bonus features, and his “sneaky uncle.”

How did you get approached to do this project? Was it after you had seen the Beatles game?

It was during development of the Beatles game. They had a lot of the bonus material already compiled, some of the unseen Beatles stuff. That’s what really impressed me. I had played Rock Band 1 and 2 before, but the fact that they were doing an entire game devoted to the Beatles really impressed me. The fact that they were offering us the second game after the Beatles was an honor. I didn’t know how much Rock Band had beside the gameplay. There’s so much to it, the special features and old interviews and things. With us, there is all this old stuff we hadn’t seen in years – us getting interviewed high on the Bookmobile, crazy stuff. So many old pictures and great memories. It’s a trip. I thought it would just be the gameplay.

Did you dig into your own personal vaults for some of the bonus material or did MTV help provide that?

I don’t know if you’re old enough to remember but MTV used to be a music channel! [Laughs]

I am definitely old enough.

Back when they were a music channel, we used to do quite a bit of stuff with them, since we play music. [Laughs] So, they have dirt on Green Day for miles. They have all sorts of stuff showing Green Day acting badly. They dug it up and they used it. It’s pretty cool.

I know you wanted the game to really reflect what a Green Day show is like. Did you do motion capture for full takes of songs done how you would do them on stage?

We actually went back and forth with them on that. They wanted us to go in that little room with the balls on us. The only person putting balls on me is my sneaky uncle, you know what I mean? [Laughs] So we tried to weasel our way out of that, and we figured out a way to do it by cross referencing old video with a special filming we did for them, where they had their cameras in just the right spots. They used that and I think they got some guys that are in a Green Day tribute band to go in the room with the suits with the balls. So, we amalgamated that in a scientific and artistic way. It’s a trip. These video game dudes are super smart, yet they have creativity.

Are you happy with how you’re portrayed in the game?

Oh man, we look like f---ing superheroes!

The game draws tracks mostly from Dookie, American Idiot, and 21st Century Breakdown.

Yeah, three albums on one disc, who knew?

Are there songs from other records in the game?

Yeah, there are select songs from other records. We wanted to get stuff from 39/Smooth and Kerplunk! on there, too, but the tapes are really old. I don’t know if you know about analog tapes, but to transfer them you need to play them. They are kind of stuck together right now. You have to “bake” them, and then you have one chance to run it over the machine to transfer it to make stems. Once it hits the head, it comes off the other side shredded. We’re making sure we have the right dudes to do it. We’re actually booking it; there’s one place in Burbank that still does it. We’re going to bite the bullet and shred our old tapes and put it to digital.

Talk about the venues in the game.

The Fox Theater is the third venue in the game, and that’s a real venue in our hometown of Oakland, California. They just refurbished it after 35 years; it’s an old 1920s Persian style theater. They did everything from vaudeville to show music in it over the years. It was dilapidated and run-down, and finally the Friends of the Fox Theater repaired it and we were the second show after it reopened. We played 21st Century Breakdown in its entirety. That was a really special moment in our career. Then, going back to the Milton Keynes in England was our first stadium gig. The Warehouse in the game is a mix of Slim’s and some other venues of that sort back in the day. I think they used a lot of video from the Slim’s performance we did back in 1994 – also Bottom of the Hill was another venue they used. We did a live MTV performance there where Mike broke his nose. [Laughs]

Did you guys have specific songs from the albums besides the three big ones that you wanted to make sure were in the game?

We wanted it all to go on there, but I guess you have to leave something for later. The technology is pretty sweet. You can download more material on all the consoles. Personally, I like PS3. I watch Netflix on my PlayStation 3. So, we’re going to have more stuff going through the pipeline later, like the old records once we get them on digital and get the stems. Hopefully, we’ll come up with some new looks.

Is it bizarre to be sitting there playing a game with your own likeness?

It’s very, very bizarre. But it kinda gives you a tech boner! [Laughs] It gets my tech weenie hard.

What’s your favorite tracks to play?

I like when you f--- up. You get rewarded for mistakes. If you screw up enough and they boo you off stage, you get in a band fight onstage. That’s priceless because we never really do that.

American Idiot was a big change for Green Day, because you had some of the longer, multi-part epics like “Jesus of Suburbia”. Are you going to be able to play those in their entirety?

Yeah, absolutely. It’s a big challenge, a nine-minute song on a video game. You’re trying to hang on through it, and if you screw up you get booed offstage and have to start over. But that’s how it is in real life; you can’t take a break and smoke a bowl onstage. You can’t hit the pause button and pack the bong. [Laughs]

If you get some of the older tapes baked and get them to digital –

Speaking of bongs! [Laughs]

[Laughs] But do you hope to have timetable for when you can do that stuff as downloadable content?

Whenever’s clever, baby.

As a drummer, do you play as yourself or do you like to see what it’s like to be the guitarist or bassist?

I like singing it, because I’m just hopeless on the drums.

That’s weird, why do you think you’re so bad at drums?

Well, I’ve been playing a trap kit since I was 11, and it’s kind of a different thing. I’ll get it; I’ll learn. But right now I’m completely dogs--- at it. I can’t even finish a song on easy. But I can do it on guitar, bass, and vocals. Everything but drums.

When the game comes out, maybe you can get practiced up at drums.

What’s cool about the game is that you can go to a practice mode. I’m going to have to re-learn drumming. The practice mode will teach you different rhythms and beats. If you scroll down, you can also go to free play and basically just drum like on a real kit. I predict that suburban white kids will use it to make beats and do really crappy rap music. [Laughs] They’ll record it on their iPhones and dump it on YouTube. It’s going to happen.

It’s the future of music.

Exactly.

MGMT In Color

2010-05-14T06:09:00.000-04:00

From Antimusic.com

MGMT's Ben Goldwasser, Yeasayer's Ira Wolf, singer/songwriter Sean Bones and Norah Jones all have roles in the upcoming film Wah Do Dem, out on DVD on Oct. 26.

The movie's about a skateboarder named Max (Bones) who gets dumped and heads to Jamaica via a free cruise. He meets a Rastafarian who shows him a secret beach, but Max loses his belongings and starts wandering through Jamaica looking for the American embassy to go home.

Brooklyn, N.Y.'s Suckers also perform in the movie, which was directed by Sam Fleischner and Ben Chace. The soundtrack features music from Santigold, Yeasayer, MGMT, Suckers, The Congos, Bones and others.

Here's the trailer:

WAH DO DEM trailer from Ben Chace on Vimeo.

Your My Boy Green

2010-05-13T21:25:00.003-04:00

Check out this rare Greenday track where they go old school. Cheap Trick is a band I tried to hate and I couldn't and pretty much every song you hear on JSE comes from the Replacements somehow. Deepest lyrics I ever heard. Check it out. Let me know what you think

Sneak Peak at the new STP: Bagman

2010-05-07T11:34:00.002-04:00

http://www.amazon.com/gp/entity/Stone-Temple-Pilots/B000ARC4TI

The latest track off of the brand new sixth Stone Temple Pilots album to get leaked is Bagman. Check it out, then let me know what you think: BrianAnthony616@yahoo.com

The Greatest Song You Never Heard : Staind

2010-05-07T09:27:00.002-04:00

Okay so you heard of the song and you heard of the band but have you heard THIS band doing THIS song??? I'm not a fan of the Black album era Metallica and this song always seemed like a huge EFF U to the fans (listen closely to the lyrics) but Staind makes this song sound like a Staind song. Perfect fit and excellent interpretation

This Will Work Better Than Sending A Virus

2010-05-07T09:07:00.002-04:00

http://blogs.tvland.com/prime/tv-land-awards-classic-glee-club-does-dont-stop-believin/

You will love this if either you're an 80's pop culture ADDICT, or somebody you were once close to slept with your girlfriend/boyfriend and you need revenge. Send this. You couldn't get more 80's if you covered this in Spandex and used hairspray to light it on fire. The best part about this, and when I say best part I'm truly searching for the needle in the haystack, is the background singers including Janet from Three's Company, JJ Walker from Good Times, and Bull from Night Court. Don't say I didn't warn you

Thrice Times the charm

2010-05-05T15:50:00.001-04:00

Dude, Thrice. BACK. The story below is from Antimusic.com

Thrice drummer Riley Breckenridge took to the band's website on Tuesday to reassure fans that the group still plans to hit the road this summer. Here is what he had to say:

Since the situation with Dustin's Dad arose and we had to cancel the remainder of our tour with Manchester Orchestra and O'Brother, there have been many questions regarding the status of our summer headline tour. Today we got word from Dustin that he's good to go, and as a result, we will be continuing with our plans to do that tour in it's entirety.

It has been an indescribably difficult seven months for all of us. In September, my and Ed's Dad was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer in his throat and tongue and has since undergone seven weeks of chemo and radiation, and a major surgery three weeks ago to remove the remaining tumors. No more than two weeks after my Dad's diagnosis in September, Teppei's Mom was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer, and passed away in January. And most recently, Dustin's Dad's diagnosis and surgery last week. It's just been relentless.

We really appreciate the support, positive thoughts, and understanding you've shown us in person or via the comments on this blog as we've dealt with all of this and had to play shows without Teppei late last year & this January, or cancel this past tour. Thankfully, at this time we can focus on healing our folks at home while we share music with you on the road. I don't think they'd want it any other way.

So with that said, we'll see you guys this Summer. Tour dates and tickets are available here, with more dates being announced soon. Keep sending positive thoughts and/or prayers in the the direction of Mr. Kensrue and my Pops, and hold fast hope.

If Only we could see the way to the Mid West

2010-05-05T15:42:00.002-04:00

Nothing close by yet, but I have a feeling Tonic will be making their way around our parts closer than we think. If your up for a road trip and a .........really big Tonic fan, the current tour dates are below

TONIC confirmed tour dates:
5/20 Sundown in the City Knoxville, TN
5/21 The Windjammer Isle of Palms, SC
5/22 Chesapeake City Park Chesapeake, VA
5/28 Montgomery Jubilee City Fest Montgomery, AL
5/29 Moody Gardens Convention Ctr Galveston, TX
6/3 Nitefall on the River Des Moine, IA
7/4 Naperville Ribfest Naperville, IL
7/15 Moondance Jame Walker, MN
7/16 Windy City Ribfest Chicago, IL
7/25 Churchill Downs Music Fest Louisville, KY
8/6 Kiwanis Park Sheboygan, WI

New Taking Back Sunday Tour Dates

2010-05-05T15:39:00.002-04:00

Taking Back Sunday headline tour dates are as follows:

June 22 – Starland Ballrooom Sayreville, NJ
June 23 – Irving Plaza New York, NY
June 24 – Electric Factory Philadelphia, PA
June 25 – House of Blues Boston, MA
June 27 – Metro Chicago, IL
June 29 – The Wiltern Los Angeles, CAjavascript:void(0)

New Band To Check Out : JYN

2010-05-02T16:24:00.002-04:00

http://www.myspace.com/briksavj

I'm fucking bored. I have been for about twelve years. There hasn't been a new song or band that seems like it Will have a lasting effect on my life now the way bands like Pearl Jam, Pantera, STP, Life Of Agony and Alice in Chains did back in the 90's. Maybe I'm just getting older? No Effin Way!!!!!! Dude there's some great music out there right now with the Sick Puppies and Silversun Pickups but do you really see yourself in five years reaching for that old Shinedown CD to pop n the obscure track 7 to take you back to your youth? Stuff today seems so forgettable. Last year was a nice step with Pearl Jam, Weezer, Creed, and Alice In Chains making comeback albums but things just don't seem to have the same impact anymore that they used to. In 99 Creed, for better or for worse was the biggest band in the country selling out arenas before the tickets ever went on sale. This year Creed tickets are ten bucks. Maybe we have heard it all before? I don't buy it. I think we accept to the point where we don't challenge anymore. The new stuff we play on JSE is good music. You need good music throughout the day but where is that mind blowing GREAT music? The life changing kind? The holy crap get me a guitar I wanna do that music? I'm looking for it and I believe you should too. Maybe we got complacent. There is new stuff out there but I think I've been jaded enough to turn off a new song a soon as I hear the words "NEW BAND" If you're in a band or know a great one I'd like you to get some songs to me.

My buddy lives in Brooklyn but he joined a South Carolina based band called Jyn. At first I kind of shrugged it off but today I finally got to their Myspace page. No I don't think Jyn is the next GREAT thing, not yet. I think they're on the right track though.

The first song Kat In the Chair s the most fusteratng because it's really good. It' just missing SOMETHING. The entire time I'm listening I'm expecting something just a little more an it never comes. Slowly Melting is a jam. Put on your sunglasses, jump on the expressway and jut let this song take you wherever. Porcelain Dog marries Blind Melon with Candlebox. The lyics Jyn offers are from different place than bands who make similar style music which makes songs like this one stand out.Ornamental is the ballad and my favorite of the four offered. Maybe I AM getting too old, liking the ballad the best? Jyn offers something I haven't heard in a long time though and that's an outside of the box approach to making an age old product: The song. Bands like Paramore and Flyleaf ARE great now. I'm just saying Jyn is something to look forward to in the future because hey might be around for a while one day

The Greatest Song You Never Heard : Velvet Revolver

2010-05-02T15:59:00.003-04:00

Since I'm doing nights again, I'm doing it right. One of the complaints I hear a lot about JSE is that the play list is way too short. Hey I just work here. I CAN post whatever the I want here, and get a little music networking thing going. One of the features I liked to do early on was a feature one rarley played song everyday here and talk about it. That first Velvet Revolver album is pretty much forgotten about now with Weiland going back to STP and Slash flying solo. Velvet never reached the status I think they should have, but when you put one of the greatest bands of the 80's together with one of the 90's best singers,expectations seem to get the best of us and I think the public expected the album to come with ten sample pills of Viagra. This album was full of epitomizing Rock songs like Headspace. Killer Riff. Killer Sound. Why the hell did this song get ignored?

102.7 JSE This Is How We Roll

2010-03-17T17:32:00.002-04:00

You never know when we might drop me. Where the heck were these guys when I was 17 working at Taco Bell?

Alice In Chains last Friday

2010-03-17T17:25:00.003-04:00

A few years ago I would have punched you in the face if you told me I could see Alice In Chains in concert.I punch liars, bad habbit. Except you wouldn't have been lying to me. What you're looking at when you see William Duvall on stage with Jerry Cantrell, Mike Inez, and Sean Kinney is immpossible. It's not supposed to be that good but it is. It's Alice In Chains. Angry, Dark, Kick Ass Alice In Chains. Below are a few videos from the concert if you don't believe me. I'm not lying and I hate it when people punch me

AIC BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-03-07T10:52:00.003-05:00

With the concert around the corner, I thought you could use a little Alice In Chains early. http://www.livestream.com/aliceinchains

Alice in Chains have announced an online live chat with fans that will take place March 10 at 7pm EST / 4pm PST on LiveStream here.

Banned In The USA

2010-03-07T10:47:00.002-05:00

Mudvayne Banned was a top story for this week. Here it is again: Mudvayne are the latest band to drum-up publicity by producing a controversial video that was guaranteed to be banned by major video outlets. Here is the official announcement about the ban: Mudvayne continues to push the envelope with the video for their second single "Beautiful and Strange" off their self-titled album Mudvayne. "Beautiful and Strange" is directed by Frankie Nasso and is the latest installment of three conceptually linked videos that were filmed to promote the band's self-titled album. "Scream With Me", the first single off the album saw great success becoming #2 on the Hot Mainstream Rock Chart.

With the release of the video for "Beautiful and Strange" came the unwillingness of networks, and media sources to play the video due to its disturbing and thought provoking imagery that is meant for mature audiences. The video contains sexually explicit acts that take place in a graveyard and some scenes that involve acts of sadism that is part of a storyline that is linked to the other two videos. The exact definition of the video is left to interpretation and flows beautifully with the other two videos that complete the concept. It has been banned from every outlet except for one; the only place where this video can be seen is on the social networking site vampirefreaks.com.

Mudvayne has been praised for changing the landscape of metal music through their songwriting and now they continue to broaden that landscape with their provocative new video for "Beautiful and Strange". The song is extremely dynamic and is an example of the bands technical abilities as musicians. The release of the third and final video "Heard It All Before" is set to premiere next month. - http://vampirefreaks.com/playvideo/?v=125224

Man What A Crazy Three Weeks

2010-03-07T10:27:00.003-05:00

Ok so it's been way too long since we last spoke. I've gotten a lot of questions as to why I'm not hanging out with you during the night anymore on JSE. Things back home are getting a little complicated, and I need to keep my nights open to take care of some family issues on Long Island. It sucks and I miss it but that's my problem. I'll still get you the latest, most detailed rock news I possibly can and keep Sunday nights real before you start your work week. I'll be back on nights as soon as I sort out the tragic comedy known as my life. I'll see you tonight on JSE

NEW LINKIN PARK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-02-17T09:23:00.002-05:00

I thought this was cool. The video you see below isn't the one the article is referring to. It's just the song but if you want to see the full video, just check out the link below. It's pretty cool

Linkin Park has released a special video for “Not Alone,” the song they wrote and recorded for Download To Donate For Haiti. The video features studio performance footage interspersed with stark images of the devastation in Haiti and can be seen at myspacemusic.com. Launched by Music For Relief, a non-profit founded by Linkin Park, Download To Donate For Haiti provides fans with the opportunity to download a collection of exclusive songs by their favorite artists and then donate funds on a purely voluntary basis. Each download is a donation. Fans can download the unreleased songs at musicforrelief.org and via the websites of each participating artist. Jack Johnson, Weezer, The Crystal Method and Metric are among the latest artists to donate never-before-released songs to the cause.

Happy Birthday Taylor Hawkins

2010-02-17T09:18:00.002-05:00

In honor of the Foo Fighters member turning just one year older, I'll post this in his honor tonight. Always thought this was a kick ass, underrated cover of an old John Rafferty song

A Drawing to Meet Alice In Chains

2010-02-15T13:07:00.001-05:00

Yo check this out my brothers and sisters

Alice In Chains' video for their current single "Your Decision" has plenty of genre elements to it and has generated some controversy what with its debauchery-filled similarities to Eyes Wide Shut and Hostel: Part II. Things are left open-ended, however, and now comes a "Your Decision" comic that picks up where the video leaves off with fans helping to determine how the story ends.

AIC has teamed up with PopCult and Devil's Due Publishing for a contest that gives you the chance to add your own chapter to the storyline depicted in the video. The master storyboard and opening chapter found below set the tone. But first, here's the video of "Your Decision" off AIC's Black Gives Way to Blue album in case you haven't seen it yet.

Alice in Chains - Your Decision Video
by dreadcentral

Uploaded by dreadcentral. - Explore more music videos.

Fans are challenged to post suggestions for what they think should happen in the next chapter (in 150 words or less). Once approved, all new chapter posts will be viewable to the public. They can be read, commented on, and "liked" by other users. At each chapter stage the submission with the most "likes" will be the winner. If you decide to participate, be sure to post your submissions via Facebook and Twitter to pull extra votes.

Each winning submission will be elevated to the master storyboard and guide the path the story takes next. Winning entrants will see their chapters illustrated by PopCult/Devil's Due and immortalized into the "Your Decision" comic book. And the Grand Prize for best entry includes a flyaway trip for two to New York to see Alice in Chains play a sold-out show at Terminal 5 on March 9th, two nights' accommodations, and the chance to meet the band. The four runners-up will get a limited edition illustrated "Your Decision" comic lithograph signed by Alice In Chains.

It's Been A While

2010-02-14T18:27:00.002-05:00

Wow a little snow on the ground and the next thing you know, 10 days have past since your last blog entry. Sorry. No excuses I just got lazy as hell. I'm also a little depressed after waking up today and realizing there is not only no more football on for SEVEN MONTHS, but since it's Valentines Day, watching the Giants has been replaced with watching Giant wastes of 90 minutes. All weekend. J Lo, Britney Spears, Debra Messing, Reese Witherspoon and her pointy chin, and every bad actress are crying, bitching, and complaining on my T. V. about their broken heart, Whah. My heart was broken when the Colts stomped all over the Jets in the AFC championship game and Brad Pitt didn't show up in the end to make everything allright. Valentines Day is a total sham so I put together a little list of songs to make the day go by a little faster, a little easier, and with a LOT less estrogen

This Love- Pantera
Figured You Out- Nickleback
She Hates Me- Puddle Of Muddle
Miserable- Lit
Crazy Bitch- Buckcherry
Used To Love Her- Guns and Roses
Keep Away- Godsmack
Dont Go Away Mad- Motley Crue

Happy Valentines Day to everone. I'll see you on St Patricks Day at the Dubliner

NEW Alice In Chains Interview

2010-02-05T09:05:00.001-05:00

YEAH!!!!!!!!!!! A new Chains inteview below from the Grammy's

Offspring: Not THE Offspring, others bands offspring

2010-02-05T08:40:00.002-05:00

Frances Bean Cobain is making her singing debut with My Chemical Romance lead singer Gerard Way. Frances Bean is the 17 year old daughter of Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love and considering the genetics she's had to work with is surprisingly cute although she is a minor and I feel creepy for even calling her cute. Anyway, it got me thinking about other famous rock star offspring and I wondered if ANYONE lived up to their parents footsteps. There was the Wallflowers featuring Bob Dylans son Jakob on vocals. They had a few hits and even once has Bruce Springsteen as their bus driver for shows around Central Jersey but they phased out pretty quickly. You had the Kelly Osbourne debacle where she covered Madonna's Papa Don't Preach with Incubus backing her up. That led to the butchering of one of my all time favorite Black Sabbath songs, Changes. There was also a late 90's band called Deadsy which was fronted by the son of Greg Allman and Cher. Talk about bad genetics? I wish Frances Bean. Her mom may be a fuck up but she was a damn good front woman and Kurt, well some would say he made history

We Really Are The World

2010-02-05T08:20:00.002-05:00

All of the benefits and donations to the Haiti earthquake situation has sparked a ton of controversy in the U. S. There really is no right answer to weather now is the the time for America to aiding other nations while their own is such dire straits. It's a Head vs Heart thing and the only answer is that their are two answers. Well bands like Weezer, The Donna's and Ween (holy fuck do you remember them?) are getting behind a cause I HOPE doesn't raise nearly the same amount of questions as the haiti benefits are raising.

For a minimum donation of .99 cents each, you can get rare and unreleased songs featuring a whole bunch of bands and ALL proceeds go to TargetCancer. TargetCancer is a non profit group dedicated to finding cures for rare but equally as dangerous forms of cancer. The group was founded by Boston lawyer Paul Poth who's passion for music led to one of the worlds most diverse CD collections ranging from classical to death metal. When Paul was 38, he was diagnosed with hepatobiliary duct cancer. Yeah I never heard of it and neither did his doctors. Paul Poth was a determined man and even though he passed away two years later at the age of 40, his foundation will be his legacy as the fight rages on, and an army of generous artists have donated music to take cancer down. below is the website where you can get your rare songs for a donation and a track listing of what's available. Lets help kick cancers ass

Weezer- "The Rat Race"
Ween - "DC Won't Do You No Good"
The Donnas- "Can't Keep It a Secret"
Cowboy Junkies- "In My Time of Need" (Ryan Adams cover)
Dean and Britta- "International Velvet Theme" (Caledonia Mix)
Buffalo Tom- "Thrown" (Live From Somerville Theater)
Linda Thompson- "Never the Bride"
Mike Viola- "This is Love, This is Life"
Drug Rug- "Coffee In the Morning" (Alternate Version)
The Gravel Pit- "Yellow Light Purple"
Happy Ending- "Through Your Eyes"

http://www.righttracktunes.org

Greatest Song You Never Heard: Faith No More - A Small Victory

2010-02-02T19:09:00.003-05:00

Faith No More were always too weird to be HUGE, but they were pretty big for a while. Do you remember MTV's Buzz Cuts? This is one of my favorites. You can find this song on 1991's Angel Dust Album, featuring a white dove on the cover. I hope you like this the way I do

Nailin' the Grammy Awards

2010-02-02T17:55:00.002-05:00

I'm not a big fan of the Grammy Awards. The though of a group of suits choosing what album, song, and singer are better than other albums, songs, and singers? Better than what? Says WHO? I do like the live performances but the Grammy's have been featuring more of the manufactured garbage I can't stand. WE pick the greatest songs, the greatest albums, the greatest singers. Nine Inch Nails Trent Reznor feels similar and the best part of all of this? It looks like Trent is working on a new album. You think he cares if the new stuff wins a Grammy?

Nine Inch Nails frontman Trent Reznor had this to say on his Twitter account this past weekend: "Grammy asshole weekend in LA. Yuck... The Grammys = the old guard / old media propping up their puppets trying to convince the outside world (and each other) they're relevant." But was back to business on Monday when he told fans "1st official day of work in the studio."

ALICE IN CHAINS YOUR DECISION MAKING OF

2010-01-26T15:51:00.001-05:00

Thought you might enjoy checking this out. I've been enjoying the crap out of JSE playing No decsion and I figured you'd be into this video of Alice In Chains talking about the new song

Freebird WITH COWBELL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-01-26T15:37:00.002-05:00

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/01/23/will-ferrell-free-bird-vi_n_433975.html

Jay Leno's an asshole and it's a no brainer that America rallied behind Conan for
this late night war. We love an underdog right? Well so does Will Ferrell, Beck, Ben Harper, and Billy Gibbons from ZZ TOP. They tore through Freebird, and it was amazing. I mean, Will Ferrell can't sing, but it didn't matter. it was fitting, emotional, and at the end, there was even a little COWBELL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I gotta have more cowbell

Dick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-01-25T09:38:00.001-05:00

Andy Dick is in trouble again. Remember a few years ago when he got his ass kicked by Jon Lovits?

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Actor and comedian Andy Dick has been charged with two felony counts of sexual abuse in West Virginia.

Dick was arraigned Saturday afternoon in Cabell County Magistrate Court. Court documents say he's accused of grabbing a bouncer's crotch and groping and kissing a male patron earlier in the morning at a bar in Huntington. Magistrate Patty Verbage Spence set bail at $60,000.

"Andy is stunned by these allegations and we are strongly denying any criminal conduct," Dick's attorney, Jeff Rubenstein, said in a statement.

Spence set a Feb. 2 hearing for the 44-year-old Dick, who was in Huntington to perform at the Funny Bone Comedy Club. Funny Bone managing partner Tom Schaefer posted Dick's bail and said Dick is "absolutely still on the schedule for Saturday and Sunday."

The Purple Reign Is Over

2010-01-25T09:31:00.001-05:00

Even though Prince did the half time show at Superbowl 41, he just doesn't seem like a big football fan. He was in Minnesota for the Vikings big win over the Cowboys but looking like I do at family dinners. Turns out he was so moved by the Vikings win, he went home and wrote Purple and Gold. Too bad the song had only one week before it turned sour. The Vikings season ended last night thanks to a loss to the New Orleans Saints

Freedom of Speech?

2010-01-25T09:26:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago I said that only the Papparazzi can make me root for Axl Rose. At this point, I'd hold someones camera while they stomped the snot out of the red headed step child. Read below

According to TMZ, GUNS N' ROSES fans were forced to take sides in the legendary war between Axl Rose and Slash - after security at a recent GNR show banned fans from wearing Slash gear inside the show.

It all went down at the GNR show in Canada last Wednesday - concert security informed fans that they were required to turn their Slash t-shirts inside out .... and leave their top hats outside.

TMZ spoke with a member of the concert security team who confirmed the marching orders - and told us the instructions were passed down from a producer for the band.

We're told a few fans took the high road and went home ... but most just sucked it up and did what they were told.

It's All About The Name

2010-01-25T08:59:00.003-05:00

DONT SAY I DIDN'T WARN YOU ABOUT THE VIDEO

When I first heard about Ozzy calling his album Soul Sucka, I was immediately struck with flashbacks to that horrendous period of time when the metal god sang with both Busta Ryhmes and the Wu Tang Clan. Now there's no evidence that Ozzy's going urban, but now at least there's nothing to make you think that way

Ozzy Osbourne may not be planning a Black Sabbath reunion, but he is in the final stages of recording his next solo album. The disc was originally titled Soul Sucka, but Ozzy recently changed his mind about that. “When we put that on the Internet none of my fan base liked the title,” says Osbourne. “They were like, ‘I can’t imagine me walking around the fucking house with the words ‘Soul Sucka’ on my T-shirt.’ So I was like, ‘Fuck it. I’ve got to come up with something else!’ ” The now untitled set is due out in July, the same month Osbourne says that Ozzfest will return after a one-year break. “After Ozzfest I’m doing the most extensive tour of my life,” he says. “It’ll be something like, 3,025 dates.”

WTF Billy Corgan?????????????????

2010-01-20T05:04:00.002-05:00

http://www.myspace.com/smashingpumpkins

This is the new Smashing Pumpkins single. All I'll say is that a Smashing Pumpkins with only Billy Corgan is pretty much the same as Axl Rose being the only guy in "Guns and Roses"

NEW STP ALBUM DONE

2010-01-20T04:53:00.002-05:00

Below is an article with the DeLeo brothers about the new STP album. That is a beautiful fucking thing to type

In 2008, San Diego alt-rockers Stone Temple Pilots ended a five-year split and reunited for a massive U.S. tour, kicking off with a rockin' extravaganza at Harry Houdini's old Hollywood mansion. And then the magic really started to happen: the quartet began jamming during sound checks and soon had an album's worth of demos.

This May, STP -- singer Scott Weiland, bassist Robert DeLeo, guitarist Dean DeLeo, and drummer Eric Kretz -- will return with a new yet-to-be titled album, their first since 2001's Shangri-La Dee Da. To get the 411 on how the recording process was coming, we rang up the main songwriting force behind the band: the DeLeo Bros.

MORE STP ON SPIN.COM
.News
SPIN.com Q&A: Scott Weiland
The Inquisition: Scott Weiland
STP "Almost Finished" with New Album
Stone Temple Pilots Nix Tour to Finish Album
New Stone Temple Pilots Album?
Audio/video

WATCH: Scott Weiland's Romantic New Video
..Here the siblings discuss the hardships and awards of reuniting, Wii bowling, Weiland's sobriety, and the '60s vibe of STP's upcoming album. "If [fans] are expecting another 'Plush,' they are going to be let down," says Dean DeLeo.

Where are you guys in the recording process now?
Dean DeLeo: We're done recording and will start mixing Monday.

Robert DeLeo: Yep, we just finished the last two songs at my home studio, and we're going through the editing process and getting everything sounding tasty. A gentleman by the name of Chris Lord-Alge, who actually mixed a song of ours back in early 2000 called "All in the Suit That You Wear," will mix the new album.

What should fans expect from this record?
Robert: Fans are going get a great STP record. We know what STP sounds like -- we have a sonic blueprint. It's always worked for me to put myself in the ears of the listener. I ask myself, "What kind of STP record would I want to hear?" The answer is a really cohesive record with songs that are going to be lasting. Fans don't necessarily want to hear songs from me being the best person I can be. Those songs are for a solo record. STP fans don't want that side of me. This band is attractive because we bring it to the edge of a cliff and write songs that have attitude.

Can you tell me about a few songs from the album?
Robert: There's a song called "Between the Lines," which musically is like Paul Revere and the Raiders, with that '60s sound that I've always been a fan of. It's a '60s rockin' basher! There's another song called "Huckleberry Crumble." It's funny: these were actually working titles from when Dean, Eric [Kretz], and I were writing the music at Eric's studio. Scott has gravitated toward them and we're officially using those titles, "Huckleberry Crumble" included. [Faux British accent]: "And it's another good rocker baby!"

Does STP have traditions or pastimes in the studio? Or is there anything you can't live without while recording?
Robert: If you have your laptop you're set. We have a good work ethic in the studio -- and it's a lot of work. You're writing, arranging, producing, and paying attention to the tones and sounds, and making the best record you can.

Dean: We've made a few records in houses and there's usually a tennis court or a pool. One time we filled up a pool with lime jello and jumped in naked. Another time we played tennis on horseback. This time we got really into Wii bowling! Eric's studio is in the dregs of downtown Los Angeles, and there were three things to pass the time when we weren't working: a pool table, a ping-pong table, or Wii bowling. And the Wii bowling really grabbed us, man.

SOUNDGARDEN Getting closer

2010-01-18T17:45:00.002-05:00

Below is an article about what might become the biggest tour of 2010

Soundgarden for Sonisphere?
By Alan Davies
Sunday, 17 January, 2010
12:45 PM

REFORMED rock band Soundgarden are rumoured for this year’s Sonisphere Festival at Knebworth House.

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Sonisphere Festival at KnebworthThe Seattle grunge legends – contemporaries of Nirvana and Pearl Jam in the 90s – got back together on New Year’s Day after a 12-year hiatus.

And this week’s NME says Chris Cornell and Co are talking to Sonisphere organisers.

Soundgarden are also rumoured for the touring festival on website www.efestivals.co.uk, along with Megadeth.

Best known for Grammy Award-winning single Black Hole Sun, the American quartet went their separate ways in 1997.

Soundgarden at Sonisphere
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Lead singer Cornell later formed Audioslave and then embarked on a solo career, with mixed results.

However, his solo effort You Know My Name was used in the James Bond film Casino Royale, Daniel Craig’s first outing as 007.

Cornell announced on January 1 that he was getting back together with lead guitarist Kim Thayil, drummer Matt Cameron and bassist Ben Shepherd and there would be a Soundgarden reunion this year, although no firm details of where they will be playing have been revealed yet.

Cameron is also the permanent drummer for alternative rockers Pearl Jam, who are playing Hard Rock Calling in London’s Hyde Park on June 25 and a string of dates across Europe in early July.

British heavy metal giants Iron Maiden and German band Rammstein have already been confirmed as headliners for the three-day Sonisphere Festival taking place within Knebworth’s grounds from July 30 to August 1.

Others on the bill include the legendary Alice Cooper, who will close the Saturn stage on the Friday night, British alt-rockers Placebo, thrash metal acts Slayer and Anthrax, Papa Roach, The Cult, Mötley Crüe and Iggy & The Stooges.

Last year’s inaugural Sonisphere Festival at Knebworth saw the likes of Metallica, Linkin Park, Nine Inch Nails, Heaven &

A Sneak Peak At Serj Tankian's New Album

2010-01-18T17:39:00.000-05:00

Is It Just Me Or...................

2010-01-17T18:32:00.004-05:00

Does Mickey Morandini look exactley like Glass Joe. Saw him the other night on MLB TV and then played Punch Out. Got Me Thinking

A sneak peak at the Gracious Few

2010-01-13T08:59:00.002-05:00

If Candlebox lead singer Kevin Martin's voice was a vagina, I would sleep with it. I'm in love with the way this guy sings and I'm straight, I think. Anywayn the fact that teh last Candlebox album Into the Sun from 2008 didnt get any airplay is a disgrace but the music machine seems to be behind Martin's super group the Gracious few, which is basically him with live behind him

A little taste of Aaron Lewis Solo

2010-01-13T08:51:00.002-05:00

Korn doing Radioheads Creep

2010-01-13T08:49:00.001-05:00

Well I'm thinking you'll either love this or listen once and never forgive me

Two amazing voices

2010-01-13T08:44:00.002-05:00

I spent my senior year of high school at the corner deli playing Hacky Sack to Life of Agony's River runs Red album. Keith Caputo has one of the best voices in metal and singing next to Corey Taylor from Slipknot/Stone Sour it sound amazing.

Lemonheads Evan Dando Solo A Tour

2010-01-13T08:43:00.003-05:00

Evan Dando, singer, songwriter, and guitarist of The Lemonheads, will be setting out on a solo tour in early 2010 that begins January 29 at Maxwell's in Hoboken and wraps up March 6 back in New York at Mercury Lounge. See all current dates below.

Evan will be performing an intimate set featuring songs from his solo album and plenty of classic Lemonheads tunes along with several inspired covers, including some from his most recent covers album, Varshons (06/09, The End Records).

Produced by Butthole Surfers ringleader Gibby Haynes, Varshons was inspired by mix tapes that Gibby used to send to Evan. The collection is filled with strange bedfellows - from G.G. Allin to Texas troubadour Townes Van Zandt and garage rockers The Green Fuz. The Lemonheads make each track their own, with help from actress Liv Tyler, singing back up on Leonard Cohen's "Hey, That's No Way To Say Goodbye," and Kate Moss, who sings over the dance groove of Arling & Cameron's "Dirty Robot," which also features lead guitar by John Perry on loan from The Only Ones.

Supporting Evan will be The Candles, the first solo project from Josh Lattanzi, encapsulating the varied styles and influences he's picked up while recording and touring with the likes of Ben Kweller, Albert Hammond, Jr. (The Strokes) and the Lemonheads. With the first significant free time he had in years, Lattanzi began the process of crafting his debut in June 2008, writing and recording demos in his New York City apartment. The recording process then moved to a studio in Celeste, TX and the album was finished in NYC this past Spring. The west coast sounds of the seventies that snaked like a vine from Gram Parsons through Evan Dando and Ryan Adams nestle up nicely to Lattanzi on such tunes as "Let Me Down Easy" and "Between The Sounds" while "Here Or Gone" finds the singer delivering a big "roll down the car windows" chorus that would make Tom Petty smile. Between the Sounds, the debut album from The Candles, will be available in Spring 2010.

Evan Dando on tour (with The Candles):

Jan 29 – Hoboken, NJ @ Maxwell's
Jan 30 – New York, NY @ Joe's Pub
Jan 31 – Bordentown, NJ @ The Record Collector Store
Feb 03 – Allston, MA @ Great Scott
Feb 04 – Northampton, MA @ Iron Horse Music Hall
Feb 05 – Philadelphia, PA @ M Room
Feb 06 – Arlington, VA @ IOTA Club & Café
Feb 09 – Charlotte, NC @ Tremont Music Hall
Feb 10 – Athens, GA @ 40 Watt
Feb 11 – Gainesville, FL @ Common Grounds
Feb 12 – Tampa, FL @ Crowbar
Feb 13 – Orlando, FL @ The Backbooth
Feb 16 – St. Louis, MO @ Old Rock House
Feb 17 – Indianapolis, IN @ Radio Radio
Feb 18 – Detroit, MI @ Majestic Theatre
Feb 19 – Chicago, IL @ Double Door
Feb 20 – Minneapolis, MN @ 400 Bar
Feb 21 – Omaha, NE @ The Waiting Room
Feb 23 – Dallas, TX @ The Prophet Bar
Feb 24 – Austin, TX @ Emo's Alternative Lounging (Outdoor)
Feb 27 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hotel Café
Feb 28 – San Francisco, CA @ Café Du Nord
Mar 03 – Seattle, WA @ Tractor Tavern
Mar 06 – New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge

Yet Another Supergroup. Not Exactley Velvet Revolver

2010-01-13T08:39:00.003-05:00

Snow Patrol and REM??????????????????????

A new phenomenon has hit Scotland as of late — frontmen of high-profile outfits collaborating with members of other equally high-profile outfits for new solo albums and side-projects. After all, fresh off the news that that Travis frontman Fran Healy had rounded up Paul McCartney and Neko Case for his forthcoming solo debut, comes words of a new project started by Snow Patrol frontman Gary Lightbody.

As Paste explains, Lightbody has teamed up with R.E.M. guitarist Peter Buck, Belle and Sebastian drummer Richard Coburn, Iain Archer and his wife, singer Miriam Kaufman for a brand “country-tinged” new band called Tired Pony.

The group is currently recording in a studio in Portland, Oregon with acclaimed producer Garret “Jacknife” Lee. What’s more, according to Lightbody’s blog on the Snow Patrol website, one more unannounced musical superstar is slated to appear on the record. However, no specific details have been finalized.

And if that wasn’t enough, Paste also notes that Lightbody has already made plans for another side-project with Lee, this one an electronic project called Listen…Tanks!. A sample of what Lightbody describes as “Russian submarine music” can be heard here.

Whoooooo Are Yoooooooooouuuuuuuu

2010-01-13T08:35:00.003-05:00

Alice In Wonderland Soundtrack Full Of Pop-Punk Like Avril, All-American Rejects,

Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures In Wonderland is usually associated with psychotropic drugs and psychedelic rock, not pop punk. But that looks like it could change with the soundtrack to Tim Burton's upcoming film adaptation of Alice In Wonderland.

It's only appropriate that Burton — whose films are pretty trippy —will direct a film version of Alice In Wonderland. But things get curiouser and curiouser when you consider that the soundtrack, which will be released as Almost Alice, features original tunes performed by Avril Lavigne, Franz Ferdinand, Wolfmother, Mark Hoppus and Pete Wentz.

To be sure, there's a version of Jefferson Airplane's "White Rabbit" by Vermont's Grace Potter And The Nocturnals, but for the most part the entire thing is pop punk.

The soundtrack is out March 2, two days before the film hits theatres. Burton's movie features an interesting cast comprised of Mia Wasikowska (Amelia, Defiance) as Alice, Johnny Depp (Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas, Edward Scissorhands) as the Mad Hatter, Burton's girlfriend Helena Bonham Carter (Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street, Fight Club) as the Red Queen, Anne Hathaway (The Princess Diaries, Rachel Getting Married) as the White Queen, Alan Rickman (Harry Potter, Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves) as the Caterpillar and Stephen Fry (A Fish Called Wanda, V For Vendetta) as the Cheshire Cat.

Here are the artists and songs on Almost Alice, the Alice In Wonderland soundtrack:

Avril Lavigne — "Alice (Underground)"
The All-American Rejects — "The Poison"
Owl City — "The Technicolor Phase"
Shinedown — "Her Name Is Alice"
All Time Low — "Painting Flowers"
Metro Station — "Where's My Angel"
Tokio Hotel And Kerli — "Strange"
3OH!3 featuring Neon Hitch — "Follow Me Down"
Robert Smith — "Very Good Advice"
Mark Hoppus And Pete Wentz — "Welcome To Mystery"
Kerli — "Tea Party"
Franz Ferdinand — "The Lobster Quadrille"
Motion City Soundtrack — "Running Out Of Time"
Wolfmother — "Fell Down A Hole"
Grace Potter And The Nocturnals — "White Rabbit"

System of A Down Reunion?

2010-01-13T08:34:00.002-05:00

System Of A Down bassist Shavo Odadjia has hinted that the rockers may be reuniting this year.

The band have not been active since 2006 – but Odadjia posted a message on his Twitter page, Twitter.com/officialshavo, suggesting that a comeback may be on the cards.

"Are u guys ready for System???" he wrote.

Rumours of a System Of A Down reunion have abound at various points since they went on hiatus. Frontman Serj Tankian embarked on a solo career, while last November three of the band members joined Deftones on stage together in Hollywood for a benefit gig for Deftones bassist Chi Cheng, who is currently hospitalised.

Big Mac? Big Deal

2010-01-13T05:17:00.002-05:00

Mark McGuire saved baseball. That's not my opinion. He saved the game by breaking the most beloved record in the history of the sport. The Homerun saved baseball in 1920 when the White Sox scandal ruined the games reputation. When greed and corruption became so bad in baseball in 1994, the sport suffered it's biggest indignity by seeing it's World Series cancelled. In 1998, Mark McGuire did not look like a regular guy. He had veins sticking out of his skin, biceps bulging through his uniform, and a superhuman frame. We watched anyway. Bud Selig saw the same thing we did. Nobody said anything. Sure the media tried. Mac said the word Androsteen and we all swallowed it and rushed back to the T. V. so we wouldn't miss number 62. The public needed Mark McGuire to help them believe in baseball again. Now the public is shocked? Either everybody is seeing impaired, mildly retarded, or full of crap. Mark McGuire looked like he could hoolah hoop through a cheerio in his rookie season. He also hit 49 home runs in that season for all of those who scoff that at the statement that he didn't help him that much. I believe that Mac and Sosa saw a lot of meatballs in 98. The home runs brought interest back into the game . People are so pathetic when it comes to this subject. Gaylord Perry bragged about scuffing the ball and how it got him into the Hall Of Fame? Why is there no outrage? Because anybody can scuff the ball. To a 300 lb slob who's wolfing down a chili cheese dog during the night shift in his taxi cab, hearing that Mac did steroids is his justification as to why it was McGuire and not HIM that hit 70 home runs. Mark McGuire is the biggest reason many of us even watch baseball again. We all suspended disbelief so we could enjoy what he did. To say you are shocked? Come on. Thanks Mac. What you did for this sport was huge. Too bad memories are so short and convoluted

Top 25 Albums Of All Time???????????

2010-01-06T09:34:00.003-05:00

Tony K is a long time journalist for Antimusic.com and he's almost as opinionated as I am. This is his choice for the top 25 albums of the decade

25. Bruce Springsteen – 'The Rising' (2002)

'The Rising' was birthed out of the pain and confusion of 9/11, for that reason alone it's a remarkable document of a specific time where our fears got the best of us. When anxiety runs one's life, we need to be reminded that love and fear go hand in hand, and that the former can overcome the latter. The first part of the album deals with the initial shock and horror and the characters are reeling in their emotions trying to make sense of what happened. The second part finds the voices at a crossroads wondering "where do we go from here". The final side is the resurrection. They come to terms with the deathly blow and their faith guides them through the mess onto tomorrow. Tackling a subject so fresh in people's minds was a tremendous task and at the time, I found it to be epic. The album hasn't aged as well as I would have liked; the specific nature of the record doesn't appeal to the world at large, but I still find it to be a sincere triumph that was as dour as a funeral but simultaneously as renewing as baptism.

24. The White Stripes-'White Blood Cells' (2001)

Rock writers, in the wake of Kurt Cobain's death, have been foaming at the mouth for a new rock disciple to christen who will show us the way. The White Stripes (specifically Jack White) are a complete throwback to the meat and potatoes days of rock n' roll where glorious noises arise from a few instruments with minimal overdubs. If you don't believe me, see 'It Might Get Loud' and you'll understand what he's all about. So when you hear the distorted buzz that opens "Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground", you will understand it's not about being a hipster but about evoking those who came before. White is a no-nonsense architect who believes the answers to making illuminating music can be found in the records from the past. Each of the White Stripes records has an edge to them, but is recorded as if it was 1966. "Fell In Love With A Girl" could have been ready-made for radio waves with the inclusion of a fist pumping organ or some overdubs, but that would go against what White knows. Instead it's a furious two person attack that roars. The sweet sentimentality of "We're Going To Be Friends" finds the twosome finding a spiritual place with a tale of childhood friendship. The song is such a treat that many listeners overlook the fact that the Stripes don't just turn the dial back on our own clocks, but music's as well to a time when everything was more macrobiotic. "Hotel Yorba" is a foot-stomping country song thrown on its head. Evoking the nostalgic world where country music, the blues and rock n' roll was in its infancy, the sound of the White Stripes are not for everyone, but their intuition and drive to keep the music and the emotions laid out before them alive is more than admirable, it's a powerful four-chord declaration.

23. Jesse Malin-'The Fine Art of Self Destruction' (2003)

Painting vivid pictures in chilly New York apartments, cold city streets and bars where hearts break and memories shatter inside your psyche; Jesse Malin made a record that is completely and utterly compelling top-to-bottom. His friend Ryan Adams was in the producer chair for Malin's solo debut where the songs are refined to the nth degree but they still house enough of an edge to feel raw. "Wendy" is a radio-ready song that sizzles, "TKO" ripples and "Xmas" provides a lucid flash of the past. The world is full of thousands upon thousands of sing-songwriter types who want to convey something and have interesting biographies where we look into their music like it holds some hidden meaning like scripture. But few have the songs to match the biography, but Malin stunned everyone with this disc that in the end is an intoxicating, refreshing and enlightening listen. This is one of the decade's great discoveries; it is an album I have played constantly since its release. 'The Fine Art of Self Destruction' is full of romantic sincerity that ached with vulnerability largely disguised as rock anthems. These are near perfect rock manifestos for lost urban lovers.

22. Dave Matthews Band-'The Lillywhite Sessions' (2000-01)/ 'Busted Stuff' (2002)

The second best story behind an album on this list (after Wilco's 'Yankee Hotel Foxtrot'), but this album is still technically unreleased. The Dave Matthews Band road tested much of 'The Lillywhite Sessions' and when it came time to record it, they had hit a wall mentally and creatively, so the sessions were abandoned. Dave Matthews teamed up with producer Glen Ballard and they wrote, produced and recorded the friendlier 'Everyday'. However, someone managed to snag a copy of 'The Lillywhite Sessions' and it was leaked. Upon its leak, the reviews were unanimous; this was the DMB's masterwork as it found Matthews at a crisis of faith (as demonstrated in his rich lyric writing) and the band showed more shades of their live performances than on any other record. The band continued to road test these songs to ecstatic enthusiasm everywhere and eventually in July of 2002, most of these songs were released on 'Busted Stuff', an excellent album produced by the band themselves, but as good as it is, it's lacking some of the magic and more importantly, the innocence in their performances from those initial sessions. Now, what makes "Bartender" so epic on 'The Lillywhite Session's is the song passes the 10-minute mark, the band's longest studio recording (even if it is unofficial) and in my mind, their preeminent. There is a renewal and a silver lining in the cloud in his solo which gorgeously partners with Matthews meditative and evocative lyrics. This is Matthews defining moment as a songwriter and the band's tour de force performance on record. The song goes from being grand to immense in the last 4-minutes and it's mostly because of Moore's rumbling horns which are an essential character unto themselves. On 'Busted Stuff' Moore's horns are more buried in the mix (as they originally probably had been intended), but on 'The Lillywhite Sessions' they make the song more imposing as his horns compliment the weighty lyrics. While there are not huge difference in the beginning of the song between the 'Lillywhite' and 'Busted Stuff' recordings, the 'The Lillywhite Sessions' feature LeRoi Moore's career defining performance. The last 4-minutes of this 10-minute epic find Moore adding sonic and delicate touches of his horns that build up the song into a larger than life presence. On 'Busted Stuff' he ends the song and album with a delicate flute solo but on 'The Lillywhite Sessions' Moore's horns bring an ominous almost God-like presence to the song that teeters between the spiritual and the nether worlds. Moore provides the rhythm (ba-ba-ba-ba-dah-dah-dah!) while a separate but stunningly penetrating solo is sprinkled and layered on top. There's a battle between God and Lucifer and as the heavens thunder rapturously; Moore's layered horns provide us with the darkness…and more importantly… the light.

21. Dixie Chicks – 'Taking the Long Way' (2006)

There are sly references to the infamous backlash the Chicks suffered in 2003 on the albums opening title track. However, by the time you hit the albums third track, "Not Ready To Make Nice" it's apparent the band will not shy away from any controversial subjects on their bravest and most simplistic record to date. I never understood the Dixie Chicks until I was sent to review a concert of theirs a few years back. The Vegas style review was a blast and made me appreciate the arrangements of their songs, especially the material off their third album "Home". However, Patty Griffin wrote their strongest material, so when I heard they would be writing all of their own songs for this album, I had my doubts. Despite my hesitation, with the guidance of producer Rick Rubin and some fellow co-writers, they may not have made an album as resilient as "Home" but an album that is far ballsier and more truthful than anything they have ever created. While it may shy away from their country roots, the songs are at the heart if the disc proving that home is where the heart is.

20. Johnny Cash- 'American III: Solitary Man' (2000), 'American IV: The Man Comes Around' (2002), 'American V: A Hundred Highways' (2006)

Without question, I'm cheating here. I couldn't choose only one. 'American III' accompanied me right from the day of its release with mesmerizing covers of "One", "Solitary Man" and "I Won't Back Down". 'American IV', best known for Cash's haunting delivery of Nine Inch Nails "Hurt", is a dour and 'American V' is downright celestial. And I didn't even mention the 'Unearthed' box set. I can't ever recall hearing a voice from beyond that was as thought provoking as Johnny Cash's. It is rare to find a piece of art that has made me think about the preciousness of life as much as these three. During the last few years of Cash's life, he worked with Rick Rubin and collaborated on what would be his final three studio recordings. What appears here on these three albums isn't just astounding, but is as bone chilling as hearing a confession of a murder in Reno. One thing people continually don't understand about voices is one does not need stunning vocal capabilities to astound. Sure Celine Dion can out sing anyone every day of the week, but can she express and put forth emotions? This is where American Idol fails year after year. I don't care about ones vocal ability, but the ability to express emotions. What Cash accomplishes is nothing short of extraordinary as he was recording these songs knowing that the end was near. Immortality is prevalent on all three albums, which is not surprising since Cash was faced with death daily while recording these songs and he never knew how many breaths he had left in him. Cash's spellbinding voice gives me an entirely different take on the song. I now view the road as a final destination in the promised land. The original composition "Like The 309" and the cover "I'm Free From The Chain Gang Now" represent a man who faced numerous demons throughout his life, overcame them, found and lost his partner in crime and was ready to meet his maker on the other side.

19. The Rolling Stones – 'A Bigger Bang' (2005)

"Once upon a time I was your little rooster, now I'm just one of your cocks"; those are the lyrics that flutter out of Mick Jagger's infamous lips on the Rolling Stones only full length record released this decade. Let's clear the air here. In my world, the Rolling Stones don't make bad records. They make good ones and great ones. The absurdist cockiness from their late 1960's and early 1970's is on exhibit for all to revel in on 'A Bigger Bang', making it a remarkable record. Even at sixteen songs, the album is their dirtiest in three decades and their strongest set of songs since 1981's 'Tattoo You'. "Back of My Hand" is the most bona fide blues song recorded since their ABKCO days while "Streets of Love" is a compelling ballad featuring a throbbing vocal by Jagger. Then there's the coarse and foul fuzz from the guitars of Keith Richards and Ron Wood. The pop luster on all their post 'Tattoo' recordings, the albums suffered in lieu of lead singles, whereas on 'A Bigger Bang' the songs work as an entirety rather than scattered chapters. I can only hope this isn't their swan song, there's still fight left in them.

18. John Mellencamp – 'Life, Death, Love & Freedom' (2008)

'Life, Love, Death and Freedom' is one of John Mellencamp's best albums…period. Its themes, lyrics and arrangements cut right through your soul. Even at fourteen-songs, Mellencamp has crafted a lean and reflective album with some of his most ingenuous and illuminating lyrics ever committed to tape. More importantly, he's found a way to properly present them thanks to the guided hand of producer T-Bone Burnett. The poignancy of his lyrics hasn't been this compelling in eons. One listen to "Longest Days" will leave you emotionally drained as his reedy voice reveals layers and elevates what is already magnificent poetry to art that is relevant to the here and now. These songs ring true to Mellencamp's ideologies and the themes in his larger body of work. T Bone Burnett's subtle production pulls you in and doesn't let go. The entire album is bursting with divine lyrics which find a common ground of redemption. There's a lot of life in these songs yet one can still see the same determination in Mellencamp from a quarter of a century back, he's still full of piss and vinegar.

17. Ryan Adams-'Love Is Hell' (2003-2004)

On "The Shadowlands" Ryan Adams very plaintively pleads, "God please bring the rain". 'Love Is Hell' is more than a record of heartache; it's a collection of prayers spoken from one's knees. This album was to be the true follow-up to 'Gold' but was deemed "too depressing" by his label and as a result, Adams went back to the studio and came out with 'Rock N Roll', a loud and boisterous less polished record full of wailing anthems (if this list had been expanded to 150 albums, it would have been on it). But a deeper reflection and time has shown 'Love is Hell' to be the true heart wrenching masterpiece. Originally released as two separate EP's and then later as a full album, 'Love Is Hell' explores the dark depths of Adam's soul where he proves himself to be vulnerable in ways that are even weighty for Adams. My favorite rock albums are where the artists cut themselves open for the listener to hear, feel and see who they truly are. We've all been lost and discontented at some point in our lives and it's during these times that we long to find someone who can understand how we feel inside. Adams excised profound demons on this record with stark declarations. This is a perfect record for a rainy day where you put it on and just let the music take you away.

16. Everclear – 'Songs from an American Movie, Vol. 1: Learning How to Smile' (2000)

Everclear singer and guitarist Art Alexakis wrote about his second divorce in such a laborious and philosophical manner that this broken hearted exorcism took two volumes to encompass his vision, but 'Volume 1' is the true magnum opus. 'Volume One' finds the relationship awash in woozy hand-holding love where there is a silver line of optimism where love can conquer all. The cracks in the surface begin to creak in towards the end of the record ("Wonderful" & "Thrift Store Chair") but even then, the instrumentation radiates such splendor, it's hard not to fall in love with these songs and confuse their inner truths. The album houses eloquent compositions full of bright eyed sonic sunshine and is infused with irrefutable passion. Most records about betrayals of the heart cut deep from within the context of the relationship, but on this record, Alexakis stretches far back to his childhood ("AM Radio" & "Brown Eyed Girl") to begin the story where he searches for that innocence we all yearn for through the empirical joys of love. The production on this record channels the spirit of Brian Wilson and Phil Spector (if he produced an alternative pop band) and is one of the reasons this album holds up a decade later. Finding a brilliant middle line between brashness and luscious melodies, this is a masterwork. Most albums full of anguish don't have peaks and valleys, but Alexakis documents an entire life balancing the lightness and darkness. It wasn't until my revisit to this album for this article, where I began to appreciate the immensity of the truthfulness and its wide ranging scope.

15. Will Hoge-'The Man Who Killed Love' (2006)

With the release of "The Man Who Killed Love" Will Hoge finally made an album that matched the energy of his live shows and it's not just good, but a mesmerizing masterpiece. The energy, aggression and immediacy of Will's live shows are captured immaculately on these ten songs. There is an understated urgency in Will's lyrics which are searching for meaning in this music business, his life and his world. For an artist who has seen some of the darkest sides of the business, it's miraculous he is still creating and able to even have a sense of humor about it (showcased conspicuously on "Pocket Full of Change"). The no nonsense rock sound, with a bluesy edge, does not fit into any genre of rock music (alternative, emo, metal, etc). However, its lack of radio readiness is its blessing in disguise. This album will be timeless for decades to come. Will Hoge has an ingenious way of taking the best of the past and molding it into his own style. If you love any genre of rock n' roll, this is an album that will endear itself to you. Despite all of the obstacles he has faced, he intertwined them into art and made the best album of 2006.

14. Butch Walker – 'Sycamore Meadows' (2008)

In the year leading up to the release of this record, Butch Walker's life had been on a topsy-turvy ride and the doubt, anguish and desperation he has experienced has been crafted into his most mature and enduring work to date, 'Sycamore Meadows'. Titled after the street where his house resided before a fire destroyed it (and everything he owned) in November 2007, it's a somber, philosophical and ultimately invigorating record. "Going Back/Going Home" was written at the urging of his manager in the wake of the fire and it may be the best song Walker's ever done. The discreet life-affirming reflective song where he offers up insight into his entire life and career but at the end it becomes apparent that he indeed is in tune with himself and where he needs to go. It's true, you have to go home and acknowledge your past in order to go on with the future. The entire album is full of the same bedroom intensity and intimacy found on Bruce Springsteen's 'Nebraska'. For an artist who has made a career of creating rich melodic records made for radio, Walker finds the perfect fit for each of these tracks never overreaching and never under delivering; Walker always finds the perfect medium that showcases the song in the best light possible. Sycamore Meadows is a dreamy and raw vista full of insurrectionary rage finding a fine balance between innocence and experience and features an artist at a crossroads with his foot on the gas pedal full speed ahead towards redemption with a unified and assertive collection of songs.

13. Arcade Fire –'Neon Bible' (2007)

I'm surprised many publications have held their debut 'Funeral' in such high regard. It's an important and very good debut (on this list as well), but it doesn't hold a candle to their tour de force sophomore release, 'Neon Bible'. The Canadian indie band's lush instrumentation and harmony vocals feel like a reviving prayer being sung to you as you are attached to the top of a car speeding along at sixty miles per hour. Melding non-traditional instruments with unbridled passion, the Arcade Fire chiseled away at my insides until I relented and embraced them and this album features eleven hymns one can live their life by. The track "Intervention" is maybe the most exquisite track I've heard in the last few years and listening to this group morph into entirely different bands from track to track is nothing short of superfluous as they deliver exultant pained crescendos. Pulling philosophical topics and layering them with imaginative arrangements make 'Neon Bible' one of the decade's most inventive, integral and liberating records.

12. Will Hoge-'During the Before & After' (2006)

Back in 2005, I was sent to review someone and the opener was Will Hoge. This one performance was my most defining of the decade, I had only known of Hoge before this and during the performance I watched him wallop an inebriated yuppie filled crowd into frenzy. I immediately went to the merchandise booth and bought this just released live album. No other live album in my collection has received more spins…ever. 'During The Before & After' seized me by the jugular and the live performances captured on this disc are some of the most magical since the Who recorded a few shows in Leeds after the mega success of 'Tommy' three decades back. The immediacy of the crowd mixed with the bands adrenaline took every song to a level the studio counterparts could not touch. It's a shame the physical release of this album is out of print, because it's a defining document of Hoge's first half of this decade. The polish and sheen of his first two records is absent and in place, is a raw and revealing band ready to show the world that they're as good as any live band on the planet. A soulfully stirring "Ain't No Sunshine" feature Hoge's southern flavored vocals that evoke pure soul. "Bible vs. Gun" and "America" had only been released on a EP before now, but here they are housed definitively. "Bible vs. Gun" may be the most in tune song with the American experience of the 21st Century. It evokes the Dylan of the 60's and the Springsteen of 'Nebraska' and Hoge's pleading prayer-like vocal, sung from the point of view of a soldier at war, is one of the greatest songwriting accomplishments of the last decade. There's a nearly ten-minute "She Don't Care" full of spunk while "It's A Shame" delivers an avalanche of emotions in a vocal delivery full of brewing rage. Hands down, this is one of the greatest live documents the rock n' roll era has ever produced.

11. Michael Franti & Spearhead-'Yell Fire' (2006)

There are days when I feel it is wrong for me to want so much from music. Asking artists to surpass potential and continually progress in not just their craft but as humans as well is almost as unrealistic as wanting every prayer answered. However, Michael Franti and Spearhead take their art as seriously and they demonstrate a group of musicians who put their life experiences hand in hand with their art. Franti has never been afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve and on 'Yell Fire', he does more than express his inner emotions but his politics as well while simultaneously being apolitical. 'Yell Fire' houses is fourteen potent pronouncements about the state of the world which he drew from the inspiration he had from a trip to the Middle East in 2004. Tackling worldly topics as war, love and communication, "Yell Fire' is the record Bob Marley would have made if he were still alive. Songs like "I Know I'm Not Alone", "One Step Closer To You" (featuring harmony vocals by Pink) and "See You In The Light" synthesize the best of what they are capable of. 'Yell Fire' is a testament to the art form of music as it reminds us that there are musicians who take their craft seriously and believe in it so much that it can be used as a tool to steer you through the rough roads of life where you may learn a thing or two in the process.

10. Peter Gabriel-'Up' (2002)

This decade's greatest mind-f**k from an established artist is Peter Gabriel's decade in-the-making somber collection of songs about the cycle of life, 'Up'. A torturous and penetrating record featuring some of the most soul baring songs he's ever written. "I Grieve" mystically puts death into perspective, "The Barry Williams Show" opens up day time talk shows as manipulators of people seeking nothing more than love, the eye-opening life affirming "More Than This" and finally "Growing Up", a transforming journey amidst distortion echo sequences. Most people listened to this album once and designated it to the shelf never spinning it again. The excursion of life, from birth to death is encompassed within these ten songs in a way I've never seen anyone do before. The cumulative effect of listening to the album in its entirety (with lyrics in hand) is more than stirring and resounding, it's emancipating. These ten exquisite and intricate compositions ponder the existence of life as well as any film, book or work of art ever has.

9. Mick Jagger- 'Goddess In The Doorway' (2001)

This may be the most personal and reflective work of Mick Jagger's career. While nothing he ever does outside of the Rolling Stones will ever been appreciated fully, 'Goddess' is a stunningly naked reveal from one of rock n' roll's most secretive and closed off rock stars. The Rolling Stones have a template of rock n' roll that works and Jagger isn't really allowed to step outside of that world to wrestle with his inner demons, but he does here. Dismissed by many as too soft or poppy, they're missing out, because it's here where Jagger pulls back the curtain and lets us into his world in a way that no autobiography ever could. Bono helps out on the inspiring "Joy", Lenny Kravitz provides Jagger the meanest guitar riff this side of Jimmy Page on "God Gave Me Everything and Wyclef Jean provides an urban feel to "Hideaway". Is Jagger writing from the first person or merely as an observer? He would never admit anything, but when you hear him croon "I was trying to forget you, but you won't tell me how" on "Don't Call Me Up", you hear the rock God at his most vulnerable as if you were having a conversation with him and a tear escaped from an eye duct. He admits his shortcomings, his insecurities and rips his heart out of his chest for us to see. "Too Far Gone" and "Visions of Paradise" finds him admitting his own fears of being hurt which keep him from truly accepting love ("Don't hold me tight, cause I could get use to your vision of paradise"). Released mere weeks after 9/11, there are no words as to how comforting this record was to me. I was lost in my own world of conflicted emotions and trying to make sense of relationships that would never work, but hearing the same doubts and questions from the rocks most confident and brash singer made me feel like I wasn't alone and whenever a piece of music makes you feel less isolated, then that's a work of art that has to be admired.

8. Coldplay – 'A Rush of Blood To The Head' (2002)

"Yellow" was a great single, but I figured that was all we would hear from Coldplay. 'A Rush of Blood To The Head' changed all of that. No sophomore album should be *this good*. Lead singer Chris Martin pleads with the listener ("Open up your eyes") on the epic and thrashing opener, "Politik" and this was just the inauguration. This album has an awe-inspiring elaborate quality to it all. "Clocks" was ready-made for stadiums while "The Scientist" can only be defined as epic and a song Radiohead and U2 most likely are envious of. Even the non-singles "Green Eyes" and "Warning Sign" engage the listener with a spiritual gallery of comfort. The sonic frame work is nothing short of astounding as it begs borrows and steals from decade's worth of canonical influences and they twist and turn them into their own. These compositions are full of eye-opening lyrics, thriving sonic soundscapes and enough breathtaking abandonment to cue lighters. With a wide brush stroke Coldplay proved themselves to be a force to be reckoned with…worldwide.

7. The White Stripes – 'Elephant' (2003)

Up until 'Elephant', The White Stripes were accused of being a one trick pony, but they silenced their critics right from its opening track, "Seven Nation Army", a spacious and sprawling song with grooves, beats and melodies so simplistic one wonders why someone else hasn't made a recording like this before. On 'Elephant' the songwriting reaches astounding levels where they become more about the songs than the way they are performed and recorded. "In The Cold, Cold Night", "The Hardest Button To Button" and "There's No Home For You Here" still exhibit rawness but the pedigree of the material is at an entirely different level with the production being more than a tool but a method of bringing the listener to an arousing harmonious apex. Meg White was more involved and her presence could be felt on the entire record, helping the listener identify with this mythic two-some as we digest and dissect the lyrics looking for hints or a reveal that the White's may or may not have given us. In the end, it doesn't matter one bit as we are enthralled from the opening chord to the last asking ourselves "How do they do that with only two of them?" The energy and cohesiveness of this album is awe inspiring and seismic. Garage rock would never be the same after this.

6. Butch Walker – 'Letters' (2004)

Reflective records shouldn't sound as celebratory and blissful as this one. After a decade-plus of playing, producing and playing the big league games of the industry, Walker unleashed an intensely personal collection of songs awash in picture-perfect pop production. Don't let that last sentence dissuade you. Walker is one of the best producers on the planet at the moment and his formula for crafting enthralling and easy-on-the-ear melodies is unrivaled. However, while there is plenty of sonic splendor on 'Letters', Walker made sure the instrumentation could breathe, so that the piano and acoustic guitars sounded innocent, invigorating and most importantly intimate. Look no further than the intense and solemn "Joan" for opulent production and elegiac lyrics that haunt you long after the song reaches its conclusion. Upon listening to this record, I felt as if I knew Walker intimately (in a non-religious sense) because he doesn't hold anything back. One listen to the broken hearted narrator of the wistful "Mixtape" (the greatest mega-hit of the last decade that wasn't) and it's impossible to not hop on the Butch Walker bandwagon. I've yet to meet someone who hasn't seen him live and walk out a devout believer. Finding the right blend of lyrical poetry paired with bravura production, Walker made a record that should be studied by the industry as a whole as the perfect concoction of illuminating intimate pop epiphanies.

5. Will Hoge – 'Draw the Curtains' (2007)

Will Hoge's 'Draw The Curtains' is a collection of ten stunningly crafted songs that are as multifaceted as the relationships he sings about. This album stirs your soul and yields a genuine truth so rarely found in today's music with each song essential to the underlying theme. Hoge has shaped an emotionally severe and intuitive masterpiece that is not just timeless but the best album of 2007. This is an album deeply embedded in reactionary tales that permeate into you more and more with every listen. Will Hoge sings these songs like a lost bluesman. The rockers are full of roadhouse exuberance that are so smoky sweet I felt like I was in a bar where the liquor flows like a river and the smoke wraps itself around you like a cloud. In 2006 and 2007, Hoge masterfully crafted two perfect albums constructed of ten songs each filled with heartache, hope and romantic giganticism. We all know someone who yearns for the good old days and have lost faith in modern times and technology. Back in 1994 when I would meet a cynic who would tell me "they just don't make movies the way they used to", I'd told them to go and see 'The Shawshank Redemption' so they could recapture not just their own personal faith but in the film medium as well. The next time someone tells me "they don't make albums like they used to", I'm going to tell them to buy Will Hoge's 'Draw The Curtains' so they can have that same spiritual awakening.

4. James – 'Hey Ma' (2008)

'Hey Ma' delicately balances the beauty and bleakness that life has to offer. The Manchester band James created an immense masterpiece finding middle ground between relevant themes and sonic landscapes that simultaneously elicit tears of happiness and sorrow. It's almost unheard of for a group to reunite after an extended hiatus to create a work of art on par with their best offerings, but James has gone one step further by creating a biting, boiling and blissful collection of songs that align like the stars in the sky. James has made an album that lies somewhere between mainstream programming and indie fanaticism. They haven't just made a great reunion record; they've made the best album of their career. Not since U2 released 'All That You Can't Leave Behind' has there been a collection of potent and powerful hymns as stalwart as 'Hey Ma'. James provides an admission of emotional vulnerability and has proven to be raw and dangerously alive. The lofty topics of 'Hey Ma' are drowned in pop sensibilities that would invigorate any FM dial. No topic goes unturned; God, war, self-loathing, desperation, dislocation, separation, temptation and most importantly revelation are all here. With each intoxicating listen, I'm drawn into the reverberating music, the ebullient melodies and the world weary lyrics. The depth of the subjects found on 'Hey Ma' prove to be socially provocative; war ("Hey Ma" & "72"), awakening ("Bubbles" "Waterfall" and "I Wanna Go Home") and ultimately life and love ("Oh My Heart" and "Upside"). For the first time in a while, I feel an artist has created a complete album that speaks to me in the here and now while simultaneously enrapturing my ear drums with ambient pop and soulful sounds. Not since Bruce Springsteen's 'Born In The U.S.A.' has an artist so effortlessly converged pop melodies with lofty, weighty and biting topics. James sound like a band with an insatiable hunger willing to do anything to make their mark. Their lack of innocence gives way to experience, knowledge and wisdom. James hasn't just mined a victorious reunion album with 'Hey Ma' they've created one of the best albums of the decade.

3. Ryan Adams – 'Gold' (2001)

Distilling ideas and thoughts from every source of American music possible, Ryan Adams made the record everyone was hoping he had within him. Ryan Adams is not an easy artist to love, but I'll be damned if there wasn't another poet in this past decade who I continually was blown away by year after year. 'Gold' is an expansive and unyielding collection featuring a wide array of musical styles; classic rock, country, soul, bluegrass, alternative, alt-country and boogie shaking energy. "New York, New York" is a love letter to a lost love that took on new meanings in a post 9/11 world (the video featuring the Twin Towers in the background was shot mere days before they fell). The whole album aches with vulnerability ("Somehow, Someday") which is why the songs resonate so strongly. While most people prefer 'Heartbreaker', I find 'Gold' to be a more ambitious collection of matters of the heart. It is one thing to toss off one song after another of lovelorn missteps and ache, but it's another to be as arrogant and ruthless as Adams is here (evidenced on "Nobody Girl"). Originally planned as a double album (the 4th side was excised and released as a bonus disc), 'Gold' houses such an array of diverse sounds, it's hard not to admire its ambition. But beneath all of the aspiration are the songs, sixteen of them full of golden harmonies and brooding lyrics you wrap around yourself to feel shielded from the world. Inside each one is not just a mini film, but a full blown cinematic experience glowing off a screen in a darkened room as we sulk it in, evidenced beautifully on "La Cienega Just Smiled", in a mere five minutes and three seconds, I felt an entire relationship start, stop and evaporate in front of my eyes, but as the song fades out, the pain from the heartache can be felt. Of the one-hundred records on this list, no other did I return to more and mine for answers time after time. 'Gold' may have reached further into the commercial realm at ten or twelve songs, but it wouldn't have been as majestic and in the end, if it's not over-the-top and ostentatious then it wouldn't be Ryan Adams.
2. U2 –'All That You Can't Leave Behind' (2000)

Released in the fall of 2000, this was a glorious return to form for U2. Instead of being ironic and industrial, U2 went back to writing songs with big hooks, arm-waving choruses and melodies that soar ("Beautiful Day" & "Elevation"). The tour that followed was equally restrained allowing the listener to revel in the glories of these songs once again. In U2's determination to be not just the best but biggest band in the world, the spectacle at times blinded the music, evidenced by the icy reaction to 'Pop'. On 'Behind', U2 embraced the charming novelty of pop songs with soul ("Stuck In A Moment" & "Walk On") while not being afraid to indulge in simplistic sugary pop sensations ("Wild Honey"). The singles are well known, but it's the deeper cuts that define the record. "Kite" was written about Bono's children, but after the death of his father in August 2001, it transcended to something far deeper and more personal. "In A Little While" was on constant rotation by Joey Ramone in his final hours of life, "Peace on Earth" became a staple of their concerts in the wake of 9/11 and "New York" a song about isolation, seemed to take on a noir element in the post 9/11 world. The album while heralded by many upon its release in the fall of 2000 truly had its watershed moment in the fall of 2001. It's almost impossible to discuss the impact of this album and not mention 9/11. When the world was reeling from pain, dislocation and separation, these songs became sources of comfort and in many ways helped burst spirits back to life. The shows in the fall of 2001, their assorted television appearances culminating with an heroic Super Bowl performance early in 2002 found the band at the peak of their powers. Truly illustrious art rises above borders and becomes something more significant. Listeners take the songs, lift them upon their shoulders and wear their themes and melodies as a badge of honor. It's one thing to write about a series of events and it is another entirely to create a collection of songs so universal and wide reaching that the world at large is able to revel in its beauty in entirely different ways. These were religious hymns for those without religion while simultaneously renewing faith for others. Embracing the fragility of life and death in these songs (all written and recorded by the band before a single member turned 40), 'All That You Can't Leave Behind' is one of the most endearing and rejuvenating records of the last few decades because of the way the songs have been able to surpass what they were initially written about.

1. Green Day- 'American Idiot' (2004)

Resounding, defiant, triumphant, explosive, stratospheric, resounding, strident, anguished, catchy…and epic; adjectives that describe and herald Green Day's 'American Idiot', without question the album of the decade. What makes this collection so mouth gapingly impressive is that no one felt that Green Day had this record in them. If you had taken a survey in March of 1994 as to what current artists would release a larger-than-life masterpiece a decade onward that could be a soundtrack that would define the chaos and confusion of the world I am sure Pearl Jam, Neil Young, Nirvana, Soundgarden, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan and U2's names would have been thrown around, but no one would have even dared to mention Green Day, who had just released 'Dookie' a few months earlier. At the beginning of the millennium Green Day was maturing and evolving past the punk-pop template they forged and produced the decade's most unlikely work of genius. Embracing rock's heroic lineage Green Day set out to not just leave their contemporaries in shock and awe, but the world as well. The explosive opening riff of "American Idiot" is a call inviting everyone into a musical world of booming political exuberance. The characters within these songs are more than fictional works of art, but authentic voices of a generation. "Jesus of Suburbia", an epic nine-minute track, finds Green Day entering territory once largely dominated by The Who and Clash, but they proved to not just be worthy of making bold sophisticated statements but tearing the roof off in the process as well. 'American Idiot' is a winding and breathtaking collection of songs that barely allows the listener to breathe because they unremittingly rip through you in machine gun fashion. "Are We Waiting", "St. Jimmy", "She's A Rebel" and "Extraordinary Girl" all could have been singles, they are as engaging and alluring as anything you've ever heard on the radio, yet are integral to the overall scope and story being told on 'Idiot' and they all further the cinematic story at hand.

I am a firm believer that every artist should follow their own muse and create within their limits of their own talent and should never be chided for doing what they do best. However, I do find that when art becomes more than mere entertainment, it truly stands the test of time. Green Day raised the stakes with 'American Idiot' and pushed themselves to not just give a biting commentary about the state of the world, but did so in an exhilarating fashion that no one else even came close to in the past decade. From the blatant "Holiday" to the confessional "Boulevard of Broken Dreams" to the ravaging and elaborate nine-minute "Homecoming", Green Day found a way to embrace all of the greatest qualities of the fifty year history of rock n' roll housed within a thirteen song collection. They rocked, they rolled and they transformed our view of the world in the process. Green Day's 'American Idiot' is living proof that music does matter and can be as dominant and captivating as any painting, film, book or work of art. There will be a day when my daughter will ask me what it was like to live in the first decade of the 21st Century. She'll look upon me with her baby blue eyes and wonder if I had doubts, fears, failures, success or whether I questioned my faith by the state of events that occurred. Instead of telling her a story, I'll take put on 'American Idiot' and tell her that the sounds of this record better defines my life and my generation than any documentary film or time machine ever could.

Them Crooked Vultures Review

2010-01-06T08:34:00.001-05:00

Ladies and gentlemen, Them Crooked Vultures — the second-best band John Paul Jones has ever been in! The Led Zeppelin guys never made much of a splash in the supergroup scene, unless you're the kind of die-hard fan who still busts out those old records by the Honeydrippers or the Firm. But when John Paul Jones got the hard-rock supersession itch, he didn't mess around. For Them Crooked Vultures, he hooks up with Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters) and Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age), two of Zep's smartest disciples. If these three 800-pound gorillas want to bash out an album as willfully weird and slapdash as Them Crooked Vultures, who can tell them not to? And if they do a song called "Elephants" where they basically crunch every riff on Led Zeppelin II into seven dizzy minutes, why not?

On Them Crooked Vultures, the three rock stars don't exactly visit the depths of Mordor. The album sticks to the sort of low-end guitar boogie that Homme and Grohl were blasting in their Camaros when they bummed their first cigarettes. The first thing you hear is Grohl's instantly recognizable drums whomping out "Nobody Loves Me & Neither Do I," as Homme plays desert-rat guitar and Jones adds a bass line as nasty as "Out on the Tiles." Homme takes almost all the lead vocals, but he doesn't try to define or dominate the songs, mostly doing lyric goofs like "Slick back my hair/You know the devil's in there."

Sometimes the music sounds exactly like Zeppelin, as on "Reptiles," a sly update of "South Bound Suarez." Other times it sounds like Queens of the Stone Age with a hot new bassist. But it's not desperately ambitious — the album sounds like the good-natured quickie it probably was. Jones plays a few keyboard solos in "Mind Eraser, No Chaser" and "Scumbag Blues," and though Homme doesn't sing like Robert Plant (his upper register sounds more like Cream's Jack Bruce), he does deliver loads of Jimmy Page doppelgänger solos, just to prove he can.

Despite the fact that Jones has spent most of the past three decades doing ornate orchestral arrangements (most smashingly on R.E.M.'s Automatic for the People), he doesn't get fancy here. He puts all his mojo into forward motion, reminding you he's the bass man who helped give the world "Black Dog." But the stylistic asides here add a bit of flavor. The superbly titled "Interlude With Ludes" is a psychedelic ditty with a circus-style loop, as Homme muses, "On the good ship Lollygag/LSD and a bloody pile of rags/I hate to be the bearer of bad news/But I am." "Warsaw or the First Breath You Take After You Give Up" is a daffy eight-minute Doors tribute. And "Caligulove" is, well, a song called "Caligulove."

Homme and Grohl are old hands at this kind of thing — see their excellent Zeppelin homages on the Queens' Songs for the Deaf. But they definitely seem inspired by Jonesy's presence, and he helps them keep it light. Homme and Grohl pound away like fanboys touched with the spirit, as if jamming with one of their heroes brought out their wanton side. That's what makes Them Crooked Vultures fun: It's fan fiction with a classic-rock heart.

Disturbed On Video

2010-01-06T08:26:00.001-05:00

DISTURBED's official web site features a countdown clock to what is expected to an official announcement of the band's long-awaited "Decade Of Disturbed" DVD release. The full details of the DVD will be made available on Tuesday, January 12 at 5:00 p.m. EST.

DISTURBED took out its biggest stage production in years on last spring's Music As A Weapon tour, which made the show ripe for documenting on a DVD. Vocalist David Draiman told The Pulse of Radio at the time, "We already have a bunch of footage that's been amassed, and we're trying to do a full-blown production shoot of one or more of these actual live performances. And there is definitely plans for a DVD in the works. I don't know necessarily that it will be specifically a 'Music As A Weapon' DVD. I think that it's going to be more of a 'Decade Of Disturbed', so to speak."

The Weapon lineup also featured KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, LACUNA COIL, CHIMAIRA, and others, along with extreme sports demonstrations, tattoo artists, a vendor village and outdoor second stage.

In July 2009, DISTURBED played its last show in support of its 2008 album "Indestructible". The band had been on the road behind the record for nearly 15 months. Draiman told a Canadian newspaper last summer that the band may ease back on its relentless touring schedule, saying, "I don't think that at our age and with the level of strenuousness that this life requires that we can continue beating the hell out of ourselves the way that we have."

Göteborgs-Posten's GP TV has uploaded a short professionally filmed video clip of DISTURBED performing the song "Liberate" at last year's edition of the Metaltown festival on June 26, 2009 at Frihamnen in Gothenburg, Sweden. Watch it below.

Green Day on Broadway

2010-01-06T08:21:00.001-05:00

The stage musical version of Green Day’s American Idiot will begin its run at Broadway’s St. James Theatre starting with preview performances on March 24th, the producers of the musical announced today. As Rolling Stone previously reported, American Idiot — directed by Spring Awakening’s Michael Mayer and featuring songs culled from Green Day’s Idiot and 21st Century Breakdown — enjoyed eight sold-out weeks at the Berkeley Rep in California before announcing plans to cross coasts to Broadway in 2010. The show’s official New York opening night is April 20th.

Green Day talk American Idiot as musical debuts: on the scene at the Berkeley Rep.

“Experiencing American Idiot onstage in Berkeley was incredible,” Green Day’s guitarist Billie Joe Armstrong said in a statement. “Michael Mayer was able to bring life to the characters of American Idiot, and Tom Kitt’s musical arrangements are breathtaking. We’re so proud that the show is coming to Broadway!” The show’s Broadway cast will officially be announced shortly, but actor John Gallagher Jr. is rumored to be reprising the lead role of Johnny on the Great White Way.

Green Day’s American Idiot musical: Meet the show’s rocker cast.
No ticket information has yet been announced, so sign up on the American Idiot on Broadway Website to be kept in the loop. The American Idiot musical essentially broke every record in Berkeley Rep history, selling out its initial run before its September 4th preview shows even began. Following the last Berkeley performance on November 15th, as Rolling Stone previously reported, Green Day and the cast of AI hit the studio to re-record the 21st Century Breakdown track “21 Guns.” Green Day’s American Idiot was recently voted by Rolling Stone’s panel of artists and experts as one of the best albums of the decade.

America and Dead People

2010-01-06T08:15:00.002-05:00

WTF is wrong with this country and it's obsession with people who just died? M. J. couldnt pay you ti buy his albums in the states until he died this summer. Now the King of pop is back? Below is a pretty twisted story about Chris Cornell, Britnet Murphy and a stolen wedding video

Chris Cornell is furious that an apparently stolen video of his 2004 wedding has ended up for sale on classified advertising website Craiglist.
The video was being offered as featuring ‘lost’ footage of tragic film actress Brittany Murphy, who was Maid Of Honour at the wedding, and who died last month.

Blabbermouth has reported that although the offending item – which is said to include lots of behind-the-scenes footage of Murphy – has been now been removed, the Soundgarden frontman is demanding details on the vendor be handed over, as this video was unlawfully acquired.

For The Troops : Candlebox Miss You

2009-12-23T09:56:00.002-05:00

I never supported this WAR????????????????????? I will however, ALWAYS support our troops. There are so many brave men and women giving everything they have to do the job they signed up to complete. To sacrafice time away from your family for what you believe in is something so brave, so unfathonable for me, that I can only tip my head to these warriors, and hope they get home safely to their familys
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Best Albums Of The Decade?????????

2009-12-21T16:41:00.002-05:00

Below is Dan Uptons picks for best albums of the decade. I agree with SOME of them..........

Top Albums of the Decade: Dan Upton's Picks

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To celebrate the end of the decade, some of our writers will be sharing their picks for their favorite albums of the past ten years. We kick off today with Dan Upton. Here is his list and his introduction on how he picked them!

Top 10s are funny things... as has been pointed out to me as I've whittled down this list, the top 10 can change at any time, and is obviously wholly opinion. I started off going through the list of CDs I own, then added a handful more that popped into my head but that I never got a chance to purchase. Most of the people who looked at that list dismissed it and presented their own list full of indie artists I've never encountered. At any rate, I've pared those 47 from my original list down to 10 (plus or minus cheating by name-dropping other albums by the same artists), in no particular order:

Dave Matthews Band - The Lillywhite Sessions, 2001

Let's start the list with a CD that was never properly released. It was just leaked studio sessions of what was originally a scrapped CD, quickly replaced by what was released as "Everyday." Many of the songs were rerecorded and released on 2002's Busted Stuff, but I think the raw Lillywhite versions were better. 2009's Big Whiskey & The Groogrux King was also a close one for getting a DMB album on this list, but I think I'll stick with The Lillywhite Sessions.

DoubleDrive - Blue In The Face, 2003

Sadly, this band has long since dissolved, with members resurfacing temporarily in Dark New Day and then in other bands. As far as I can tell, between this and 1999's 1000 Yard Stare (missing the cut-off for this list by a month!), the only thing between DoubleDrive and much more deserved Nickelback-level stardom was lack of support by their labels. Both albums were great slices of modern rock, well written, full of hooks, and not sounding like a cookie-cutter version of whatever else was on mainstream radio at the time. I only got lucky and discovered them through an online sampler, but nobody else I've encountered seems to have heard of them so I don't think I was just in a blacked-out region. Do yourself a favor and track this one down.

Opeth - Ghost Reveries, 2005

While 2001's Blackwater Park was their breakthrough album, and is of course also a favorite in its own right, I'm going to give the nod to Ghost Reveries because it was what really got me into Opeth. Incredible songs, engrossing and never a dull moment even at their extended lengths.

Soilwork - Natural Born Chaos, 2002

I think this CD can probably be credited with getting me into extreme metal, along with Shadows Fall's The Art of Balance from the same year. Prior to that, I usually clicked through the Music Choice Metal stations and dismissed everything as just noise, but the combination of aggression and energy with the melodic sensibilities got me to stop and listen. They haven't really had any missteps since this, and on any given day I might choose 2003's Figure Number Five or 2005's Stabbing The Drama, but again this one gets the nod for being my entry point to their catalog.

Celldweller - Celldweller, 2003

This was probably my first introduction to the independent music scene, barring the girl I knew freshman year who made me listen to Dashboard Confessional. Okay, maybe this was just my introduction to good music in the independent music scene. Klayton, who has been involved with various other projects, really struck gold I think with his style in Celldweller, mixing trance and drum'n'bass with industrial metal.

Nine Inch Nails - Year Zero, 2007

I always kind of liked Nine Inch Nails, but I never really knew much of the back catalog. After hearing good things about Year Zero, I checked it out online...and immediately went out to buy a copy and listened to it every day for months. I'm not really sure what to say about it other than it's just that good.

Porcupine Tree - Deadwing, 2005

I'm going to go against my pattern and pick this as my top one for getting Porcupine Tree on the list. I was introduced to them by 2002's In Absentia, and I really enjoyed 2007's Fear of a Blank Planet and the 2008 companion EP Nil Recurring, but I think Deadwing is probably the best example of Steven Wilson and company firing on all cylinders.

Hombru - Ingredients EP, 2002

I wrote about this in a Favorites feature a few years ago. A trio I discovered on CD Baby whilst searching for music involving Chapman Sticks (which may be the coolest instrument since the electric guitar), Ingredients was 30 minutes of progressive sonic bliss.

Coheed & Cambria - In Keeping Secrets of Silent Earth: 3, 2003

I'll admit, I wrote off Coheed & Cambria as a run-of-the-mill emo band when I first heard of them and heard promos for IKSSE:3 on MTV. After reading good things about them though, naming IKSSE:3 as one of the best progressive albums of the year, I went back and checked it out. They were right; this CD has a great variety of songwriting and musicianship, with catchy melodies and some memorable guitar riffs.

Gordian Knot - Emergent, 2003

It just wouldn't be right for me to have a top 10 list not featuring any all-instrumental albums. It was basically between this, Joe Satriani's Is There Love In Space from 2004, or Bela Fleck & The Flecktones' Little Worlds from 2003. I'm choosing Emergent primarily to highlight someone somewhat less famous than the other two, and also because I think it has a better variety in the compositions and instrumentation compared to Satriani.

Get Ozzys Autograph

2009-12-21T16:35:00.002-05:00

Ozzy Osbourne will sign copies of his long-awaited memoir, "I Am Ozzy", on Monday, January 25, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at Bookends in Ridgewood, New Jersey. The book, which was originally slated to arrive almost two years ago but was delayed twice, was published in the U.K. on October 1.

Bookends
232 E. Ridgewood Avenue
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
201-445-0726 201-445-0726

"I Am Ozzy, The Autobiography" chronicles the star's humble beginnings in the U.K. to his current position as international music and TV celebrity.

In a statement, he revealed what fans can expect from the bio, explaining: "They've said some crazy things about me over the years. I mean, okay: 'He bit the head off a bat.' Yes. 'He bit the head off a dove.' Yes. But then you hear things like, 'Ozzy went to the show last night, but he wouldn't perform until he'd killed fifteen puppies…' Now me, kill fifteen puppies? I love puppies. I've got eighteen of the fucking things at home. I've killed a few cows in my time, mind you. And the chickens. I shot the chickens in my house that night.

"It haunts me, all this crazy stuff. Every day of my life has been an event. I took lethal combinations of booze and drugs for thirty fucking years. I survived a direct hit by a plane, suicidal overdoses, STDs. I've been accused of attempted murder. Then I almost died while riding over a bump on a quad bike at fucking two miles per hour.

"People ask me how come I'm still alive, and I don't know what to say. When I was growing up, if you'd have put me up against a wall with the other kids from my street and asked me which one of us was gonna make it to the age of 60, which one of us would end up with five kids and four grandkids and houses in Buckinghamshire and Beverly Hills, I wouldn't have put money on me, no fucking way. But here I am: ready to tell my story, in my own words, for the first time.

"A lot of it ain't gonna be pretty. I've done some bad things in my time. I've always been drawn to the dark side, me. But I ain't the devil. I'm just John Osbourne: a working class kid from Aston, who quit his job in the factory and went looking for a good time."

Publisher Antonia Hodgson called the book "fantastic," adding that it was "very much in the tone of his voice, very funny and a very full story."

Ozzy's wife and manager, Sharon Osbourne, published her own best-selling memoir in 2005, called "Extreme: My Autobiography". A second volume was rushed out in 2008 after Ozzy's book was delayed.

Ozzy has chosen "Soul Sucka" as the title of his next album, according to NME.com. The disc, Ozzy's first since 2007's "Black Rain", is tentatively slated to come out in June and will feature songs such as "Let It Die", "Diggin' Me Down" and the title track. The record will be the first to feature Ozzy's new guitarist, Greek native Gus G., who replaced longtime axeman Zakk Wylde in Ozzy's band earlier this year.

"Black Rain" was Ozzy's first all-new solo effort in six years and debuted on the Billboard album chart at No. 3.

Russell Peters

2009-12-21T16:30:00.002-05:00

I saw this guys stand up. Freaking hysterical. Not loud in your face humor. Subtle, Wow that's so f-ing true humor

STP Christmas Concert

2009-12-21T16:27:00.001-05:00

Hey, don't say I never got you anything. This my gift to you, a one hour almost acoustic Stone Temple Pilots concert from last year

christmas songs Jse Style

2009-12-21T16:08:00.002-05:00

I'll admit it. I love Christmas music. It can get kinda corney so I went through my archive to find cool Christmas tunes that will piss off your parents

STP : Charlie Brown X-MAS

The original - The Best John Lennon Happy X-Mas War Is Over

Had to add it Red Hot Chilli Peppers - Deck The Halls

U2 Christmas Baby Please Come Home

I am Santa Claus - Bob Rivers Best Parody Ever, Even Beats Weird Al

Rumor Comes True....In Fucking Europe

2009-12-18T06:01:00.002-05:00

I've talked about these rumors. I begged the rock gods to make it happen. I was crushed when Lars Ulrich shot them down. Now it's gonna happen. Only 3000 miles from my house outside of Philadelphia. WTF are you gonna do right? It still means we can hope for a shot at this concert here

ARTISTdirect.com editor Rick Florino conducted an interview with SLAYER guitarist Kerry King earlier this week. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.

ARTISTdirect.com: Where does "World Painted Blood" stand in your catalog?

Kerry: I think everything we've done this decade is pretty awesome. It's funny. I take our career in thirds. There are the first five records that we did. Then there was the '90s. The once we started up with "God Hates Us All", it seemed like we got back on track again. I think the '90s just fucked everybody up, with all of the stupid fads that got popular.

ARTISTdirect.com: With "God Hates Us All", you embraced a new energy. It bubbled more on "Christ Illusion", and then exploded on "World Painted Blood".

Kerry: Yeah, it's definitely another upswing. For "Christ Illusion", Dave [Lombardo, drums] came back. It's really fun working with Dave. When he got back in, it'd been enough time where it was no skin off anybody's ass. Everybody was happy to see each other. He's really enjoying himself on this tour. He's having the time of his life. I don't know. I guess it's good timing.

ARTISTdirect.com: The record's only eleven tracks, but you say everything you need to say in that span.

Kerry: That's another thing we did in the '90s — we got caught up in that whole thing where people just fill up CDs with music and generally it's just filler. It's garbage. By the time I figured that out, we were going into "Christ Illusion", and I said, "How many songs did your favorite records have when you were a kid?" When you think about it, it's just ten, period. That's the way I want to do it. If we didn't put "Psychopathy Red" on there, we would've just done ten songs, but since everybody had access to "Psychopathy", we wanted to add it to the collection.

ARTISTdirect.com: Tell me about the tour with MEGADETH in the U.S.

Kerry: If you became a fan of either of us since 1990, you've never seen us play together. So I think it's pretty cool. That's a long time. It's 19 years — more than many people's careers [Laughs]. Dave's [Mustaine] always been a great guitar player too! We were supposed to play Madison Square Garden, until we had to manipulate our dates and we lost the building because things get booked so far in advance there were no other openings. Now, we're playing the Izod Center in East Rutherford. We haven't played MSG in a long time though, that would've been really cool.

ARTISTdirect.com: You're obviously excited about the shows in Europe with the other "The Big Four" — METALLICA, ANTHRAX and MEGADETH…

Kerry: That's the first time ever this is happening. It's really legendary. It's groundbreaking. I don't think people realize how big of a deal it is. Mustaine said something like, "It's the biggest four metal bands from America," and I never thought of that. I just think of metal as metal and I thought, "No shit, we are one of the four biggest metal bands in America. That's pretty cool [Laughs]."

One of Rocks Coolest Bass Players : Duff McKagen

2009-12-18T05:57:00.002-05:00

I Am a Freak for the Giving of the Holiday Season
By Duff McKagan in Duff McKaganThursday, Dec. 17 2009 @ 1:17PM

Duff McKagan's column runs every Thursday on Reverb. He writes about what's circulating through his iPod every Monday.
I love Christmas. I get dewy every year when my family and I watch It's a Wonderful Life. When I was single and my life was upside-down in my 20s, I would cry when I watched that movie--for the sheer beauty of the message and because I thought I would never have something like that for myself. My tears now are of happiness that I seemingly have it all: a family and the means to make enough each year to provide for them.

I am on a plane right now flying back to Seattle. My first event this Saturday will be a benefit show (with Loaded) that KISW has selflessly and tirelessly organized to raise money for the poor families of those four slain Lakewood police officers. There is a man on the plane right now who had a huge fit when they had to gate-check his bag from the plane because it was too big to fit above. He was screaming for the names of the flight crew, who frankly were just trying to help the guy.

I think we should all perhaps take a step back during this season to realize what things we should be at least a little thankful for. I was thinking of these cops' families when this man on the plane was losing it . . . over a piece of luggage. Luggage he will get when we get off this plane in two hours. These families will never get back what they lost. Maybe it is unfair of me to make fun of flight guy's predicament, but after the crew told him his bag would be fine, they also tried to wish him a Merry Christmas. He was not, let's say, accepting of the holiday tiding. Poor guy.

I have been a BIG fan of the Toys for Tots program ever since I could afford to take a trip to a toy store before Christmas and bring a toy to the nearest fire station--maybe because my dad was a fireman and I have been cognizant of Toys for Tots since I was a little kid. It is now an ongoing tradition in my family; my girls LOVE to go to Target and help me pick out the toys. They make sure that we buy cookies and stuff for the firemen, too. The firemen think my girls are pretty cool, and they are right in that assumption.

This year, Washington's Toys for Tots program is facing a dire shortage of 60,000 gifts as it begins distributing to the 108,000 kids served by King County's Department of Health and Human Services. The Marine Corps Reserve and various fire departments are pleading for new unwrapped toys for children from newborn to age 13. Check the Toys for Tots Web site for drop-off locations, or take them to your local fire station.

Last year, I wrote of a family I became acquainted with who had spent their life savings on health care for their 17-year-old daughter with cancer. The Seattle Ronald McDonald House was their last chance for at least a roof over their heads while their daughter went through treatment at Children's Hospital. Last week, I stopped by the front office of the RMH to see what might be needed as far as donations. Yeah, they need a LOT.

Families who come to the RMH are, as I said, desperate not only for their child's chance for a cure, but broke. RMH provides an on-site apartment or larger townhome, and an open pantry in the main house, rec center, front office. On their list:

Food:

--bagged or boxed pasta
--pasta sauce
--canned food of all sorts
--frozen dinners
--cake mix
--canned meats
--canned, boxed or bottled juices
--condensed milk
--jarred baby food
etc.

Housekeeping times:

--sheets for queen and twin beds
--an Oreck 600 vacuum and carpet-cleaner combo
--six blenders
--new plates, cups, glasses, and silverware
--brooms and mops
--dustbins
--toilet paper and paper towels
--sponges
--pillows
etc.

The Ronald McDonald House is located at 5130 40th Ave. N.E.

It may be a bit gauche for me to ask you, my readers, to help out with things I think are important this holiday season. I am quite sure that many of you give to charities and such that are family traditions, or perhaps even just help out someone you know. Maybe you help out at a mission or church or synagogue or temple. Maybe you spend time praying or meditating for those less fortunate or who have recently lost a loved one. Maybe you just smile at someone when they need it, or man a crisis hotline. The recession has hit us all hard these last two years, and a donation in cash, toys, or food certainly may be not even remotely doable for many of us, which is a big reason, I am sure, that Toys for Tots is running so low this season.

I must say now that I have been honored to have you ALL as readers and friends during this last year and a half at Seattle Weekly. It has been a journey for me, and I hope I can at least keep things interesting and thought-provoking. Life is an adventure. Happy Holidays to you all. Now I've got to find a Santa suit that has fashion-forward tapered-bottom pants and a jacket that accentuates my "pluses"!

Deftones New Album Update

2009-12-18T05:49:00.003-05:00

I first saw the Deftones on Ozzfest, and like so many unknown bands at the time, they played their fucking hearts out on the biggest stage og their careers to date, just so people would remember their name. It worked. They blew me away. It was so different, so new, and now more than ever, it's so real. Last Year, the Def Tones Chi Cheng was involved in a serious accident that left him in what can only be described as a semi conscience state. Like always, rock takes care of it's own. A benefit download was recorded by some of metal's elite to raise money for Chi's family and now the Deftones have something to say, and they'll do it through a brand new album. Below is an article and footage of the Deftones laying down some new music

DEFTONES frontman Chino Moreno was interviewed for this week's episode of Noisecreep's "Creep Show", which can be viewed below. Joining Moreno on the panel were Revolver senior writer Jon Wiederhorn, Noisecreep head writer Amy Sciarretto, Noisecreep news man and writer at large Chris Harris and intrepid reporter Jen Guyre.

During the chat, Moreno revealed that the band's yet-to-be-titled new album has a tentative release date of April 27, 2010 and will be stylistically similar to early discs like 1997's "Around the Fur" and 2000's "White Pony". He also talked about the chaotic year the band has faced and the challenges the band has overcome since the November 2008 car accident that left bassist Chi Cheng in a semi-conscious state.

After completing an album's worth of material with Cheng and producer Terry Date, they decided to shelve those recordings and work on an entirely new batch of songs with stand-in bassist Sergio Vega, who previously played with QUICKSAND. They hired producer Nick Raskulinecz (RUSH, FOO FIGHTERS, SHADOWS FALL, TRIVIUM) to work with them, and in just two months they had recorded an entirely new album. "I honestly think it's one of the best, if not the best records we've ever done," Moreno said. "My favorite record is 'Around the Fur'. It was written and recorded in four months, which was the fastest, easiest and funnest record we've ever made. This record totally has that feel to it."

Regarding how Cheng's accident has affected them, Moreno said, "We honestly thought that after this thing happened with Chi, why even carry on? Things flipped back and forth. We kind of felt that way for a while. But there are some things bigger and better for us, and we were lucky enough to get together and communicate and find something for ourselves."

I am the Anti Mainstream. Johnny Lydon Speaks Out

2009-12-18T05:41:00.001-05:00

Sex Pistol frontman John Lydon a.k.a. Johnny Rotten doesn't think too highly of Radiohead and Coldplay, at least to according to this unsourced quote that Jam! posted on Thursday: "Coldplay and Radiohead bug the hell out of me because it's so soulless. It just seems pointless. It's nice, but it's tosh (rubbish). They don't care about you. They care about lining their coffers (money). There's nothing about heart and soul."

Raging at Manufactured Garbage

2009-12-18T05:34:00.001-05:00

X Factor Contestants Cover Rage Against The Machine Song
gbarton / News / 17/12/2009 16:03pm It’s the Rage Factor! In what must be seen as an admission of defeat in the battle for the Christmas No.1, a host of X Factor contestants – including winner Joe McElderry – have been filmed singing Rage Against The Machine’s Killing In The Name. Come inside to watch the remarkable footage.
Not only that, but Susan Boyle of Britain’s Got Talent is in on the act as well!

You won’t believe your eyes – or ears.

The Search For Morgan Harrington Continues

2009-12-17T10:15:00.002-05:00

There is no community like the Rock community. We take care of our own. This really sucks. It's been two months since Morgan Harrington left home and the search continues. Below is a news story from a local Virgina paper. The out pour of support has been inspirational and although it's looking bleak for Morgan, metal fans aren't fucking around. Metallica themselves offered up 50,000 dollars as an award. For Morgan, the Harringtons, and the fans of REAL music, I hope this thing takes a miraculous story for the best

Virginia State Troopers Search I-64 In Missing METALLICA Fan Case - Dec. 17, 2009

WDBJ7.com reports that Virginia State Police are now searching an area of Interstate 64 just west of Charlottesville where they're looking for any clues in the case of missing Virginia Tech student Morgan Harrington.

It was two months ago, October 17, that the 20-year-old went missing from outside a METALLICA concert at the John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville. She was last seen on the Copley Road Bridge not far from the stadium at approximately 9:30 that night, police said.

Read the entire report from WDBJ7.com.

WHIPLASH, AT WAR and DANGEROUS NEW MACHINE will take part in a hard rock and heavy metal concert to raise money to help in the search for Morgan Harrington.

The concert will be held on Saturday, December 19 at the Canal Club in Richmond — more than two months after Morgan Harrington was last seen at a METALLICA concert in Charlottesville. Tickets will be available at the door for $15 and all proceeds will go to the Find Morgan Fund, which supports the Harrington family's ongoing search efforts

Participating bands include:

LETHAL STRIKE - 5:30 - 6:00
MEMORY FADE - 6:15 - 6:45
SAINT DIABLO - 7:00 - 7:30
ARCH DEMON CHOIR - 7:45 - 8:15
CHAOS AGENT - 8:30 - 9:00
DAY MINUS 7 - 9:15 - 9:45
AT WAR - 10:00 - 10:30
WHIPLASH - 10:45 - 11:15
DANGEROUS NEW MACHINE - 11:30-12:00

The event will broadcast live on Ustream.tv.

Doors open at 5 p.m. Candlelight services will take place between 5:30 p.m. and 5:45 p.m.

The Canal Club is located at 1545 East Cary St., Richmond, VA 23219.

Blind Melon Tones of Home

2009-12-17T10:04:00.002-05:00

Shannon Hoon. Took the Andrew Wood/Bradley Knowles approach to self destructing right before they found true success. To quote another Seatlle band out of the 90's, They left us Far Behind. Blind Melon was a throwback to 60's love music, and I'm surprised they didn't have more of a following with the Phish fan base. Not that their music was so similar to Phish but their spirit was. This is Tones of Home

Come On Guys Rock Needs You

2009-12-14T08:50:00.006-05:00

Below is a sad staement from one of the most important bands of our generation (whatever generation that might be)Music doesnt need anymore bands like the Chilli Peppers splitting up. Pantera will never come back, GnR is a joke,Velvet Revolver lasted two albums, rumors of a Soundgarden reunion keeps teasing our johnsons. Hopefully, Frusciante will get it together with the rest of the band go back to making some magic

Red Hot Chili Peppers Lose A Member?
A source reportedly from inside the Red Hot Chili Peppers camp tells MusicRadar that John Frusciante has left the band and they already have his replacement. Here is part of their report: It would appear that John Frusciante is no longer working with the Red Hot Chili Peppers - so says a source close to the band in an exclusive interview with MusicRadar.

"Josh Klinghoffer has been playing with the group for a couple of months now," says the source. "Optimistically, the Peppers are trying to lock down a replacement for John, who has apparently quit.

"Mentally, John checked out a long time ago. He's interested in doing his own thing, his own albums - the whole big rock band machinery just doesn't appeal to him anymore."

Come On Guys Rock Needs You

2009-12-14T08:50:00.003-05:00

Red Hot Chili Peppers Lose A Member?
A source reportedly from inside the Red Hot Chili Peppers camp tells MusicRadar that John Frusciante has left the band and they already have his replacement. Here is part of their report: It would appear that John Frusciante is no longer working with the Red Hot Chili Peppers - so says a source close to the band in an exclusive interview with MusicRadar.

"Josh Klinghoffer has been playing with the group for a couple of months now," says the source. "Optimistically, the Peppers are trying to lock down a replacement for John, who has apparently quit.

"Mentally, John checked out a long time ago. He's interested in doing his own thing, his own albums - the whole big rock band machinery just doesn't appeal to him anymore."

Come On Guys Rock Needs You

2009-12-14T08:50:00.001-05:00

This is Awesome

2009-12-14T08:39:00.002-05:00

Below is an official statement from Axl Rose about NOT releasing an official statement about the LAX airport incident. The only thing more annoying than Axl Rose might be the Papparazzi

Axl Rose denies releasing press statement regarding rumored LAX incident. "I did not release any statement or authorize either any statement or anyone to release a statement regarding anything at any airport anywhere. [It should be noted that the original press release from Levine Communications Office regarding the LAX incident also appears on the official MySpace blog, dated Thursday, December 10. — Ed.]

"We had recently began working with newer individuals in management in relation to our current Asian tour in support of our GUNS N' ROSES album 'Chinese Democracy' in addition to Irving Azoff's though as it happens we are once again touring Asia without management of any kind.

"[In my opinion] this nonsense may be some type of manufactured or publicity stunt.

"We're looking forward to performing in Osaka and Tokyo Japan doubling our pyro show and with our 'new' full stage as local requirement have limited us on its use in our last performances.

"Thanks to everyone who's come out to see us. It's been really fun so far and the addition of our new guitarist DJ Ashba joining us, along with guitarists Ron Bumblefoot Thal and Richard Fortus, gives the night a kick in the pants.

"Hope to see the rest of you soon!!

"And to any publications running this; please feel free to tack on whatever negative agenda supporting nonsense you generally do (you know who you are!!). After all it's only someone else's livelihood you media police state, no fun, spoil sport, communist bastards.

"Peace!!"

The band's currently in Seoul, South Korea where the promote[r] was "sorry" to inform them they would not be able to use a helicopter from the airport to the venue as North Korea would "wonder" what it is!!

Kid Rock rolling the dice in A. C.

2009-12-09T06:13:00.002-05:00

Kid Rock puts on an ass kicking concert. Love him or hate him, the guy can perform. Check out Jse's home page for all of the details about the Kid Rock concert. We'll be giving tickets away all this week