Tues, February 28th

Kid Rock is releasing his first ever live album dubbed LIVE TRUCKER, today, 2/28. To celebrate the release of LIVE TRUCKER, Kid Rock & the Twisted Brown Trucker Band have hit the road for an extensive string of dates, recently highlighted by a pair of sold-out hometown Super Bowl weekend shows at Detroit's Joe Louis Arena.  Kid Rock hosted the hottest Super Bowl party in Detroit, Sports Illustrated's Super Swimsuit Party on February 4th right after his sold out show.  SportsIllustrated.com will be the only place you can see the new video for "Rock N' Roll Pain Train," which combines footage of Kid Rock on the road with footage from this year's SI Swimsuit shoots.  Make sure to check out Kid Rock's interview in this years Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue on newsstands now.

FRI, February 24th

London's Test Icicles announced this week that they would be calling it quits after their last London gig. This means that their US tour will not go on as planned, and the band has also cancelled their appearance at NME's award show, where they were to perform alongside Nine Black Alps. The band's label released the followings statement: "The band will play their UK tour in April, but there are currently no plans to make another album or tour beyond this." The band, whose three members are all under the age of 21, were reportedly exhausted from nonstop touring in support of their debut album, For Screening Purposes Only (Domino). Test Icicles plan to release one more single, a remix of their track, "Totally Re-fucked," on March 6.
Cancelled US Tour Dates:
03/01 - Brooklyn, NY, North Six
03/02 - New York, NY, Mercury Lounge
03/03 - Philadelphia, PA, North Star Bar
03/04 - Baltimore, MD, Sonar
03/06 - Seattle, WA, Neumo's
03/08 - Portland, OR, Berbatis Pan
03/10 - LA, CA, Spaceland
03/11 - San Diego, CA, Casbah
03/13 - Minneapolis, MN, Triple Rock

THU, February 23rd

Columbia/Legacy has set an April 4, 2006 release date for JUDAS PRIEST's vintage concert DVD "Live Vengeance '82", which was previously only available on DVD as limited-edition bonus with "Metalogy" box set. "Live Vengeance '82", filmed during the arena-packing 'Screaming For Vengeance" world tour on December 12, 1982, at Mid-South Coliseum in Memphis, Tennessee, was first released on home video in 1983 as "Judas Priest – Live". It had been out of print for many years before its brief inclusion as part of "Metalogy". Vocalist Rob Halford, lead guitarists Glenn Tipton and K.K. Downing and bass guitarist Ian Hill lead JUDAS PRIEST through a fiery set comprised of classics from previous albums such as "Sad Wings Of Destiny", "Sin After Sin", "Hell Bent For Leather", "British Steel" and "Point Of Entry" as well as the cream of "Screaming For Vengeance". The 17 tracks on "Live Vengeance '82" include: "The Hellion/Electric Eye", "Riding On The Wind", "Heading Out To The Highway", "Metal Gods", "Bloodstone", "Breaking The Law", "Sinner", "Desert Plains", "The Ripper", "Diamonds And Rust", "Devil's Child", "Screaming For Vengeance", "You've Got Another Thing Comin'", "Victim Of Changes", "Living After Midnight", "The Green Manalishi (With The Two-Pronged Crown)" and "Hell Bent For Leather". The "Live Vengeance '82" audio is mastered in both stereo and 5.1 Surround Sound mixes.

WED, February 22nd

Radiohead are working on a song in the studio that they've not been able to get right for almost ten years. The track, 'Nude' was played to promote 'OK Computer', but never properly recorded. Bootleg versions of the track have circulated amongst fans over the internet, but a full studio version has never surfaced. Singer Thom Yorke writes online: "Right now we are working on 'Nude', it sounds beautiful, as far as I can tell." The band is currently in the studio with producer Mark 'Spike' Stent, with a tentative release later this year. They're tipped to play at August's V Festival - a date which will be preceded by a low-key tour of the UK.

TUE, February 21st

SUFFOCATION have been confirmed as the headlining act for the 1st edition of the SMNnews.com sponsored and presented CALIFORNIA METALFEST, which is set to take place on May 13 at the NOS Events Center in San Bernardino, CA. Other artists set to perform include: Caliban, NECROPHAGIST, On broken Wings, Cattle Decapitation, Scars of Tomorrow, Sworn Enemy, Reflux, Ion Dissonance, From a Second story window, Animosity, Job for a Cowboy, The burning Season, The Faceless, Light this City, Pario, Arsis, Neuraxis, Alarum, Suicide Silence, Embrace the End, Too pure to Die, Summers End ... more set to be announced.

MON, February 20th

Coldplay aren’t going to take a break after all – they'll release a new album next year. Despite reports the band were going to take a break following their upcoming tour Chris Martin has confirmed Coldplay will release new material in 2007. However, the album will consist of songs which didn't make it onto their last LP X&Y – but Martin claims many of the songs are better than those included on the multi-million seller. "By the time we had to pick what was and wasn't going on, it was very late in the day and a lot of the best songs have never been played since. It means X&Y wasn't as good as it could or should have been, I'm afraid. "How You See The World is one of those songs. It will probably appear on an album next year with other ones that we left off."

FRI, February 17th

Nickelback, the first Canadian band to debut No. 1 on the Billboard chart in over 30 years, received a six nominations for Canada's annual top music award. The nominations include album of the year for "All the Right Reasons" and single of the year for "Photograph." Rock icon Neil Young earned three nominations. Canada has not had a homegrown rock band debut on the Billboard chart since Bachman-Turner Overdrive did so in 1974. Nickelback is currently on a cross-Canada sold-out tour. "The Junos" Award will be handed out in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on April 2.

THU, February 16th

This years Lollapalooza has been expanded to a three day event running from August 4th to 6th at Chicago's Grant Park. The event will feature 8 stages and will include 130 bands. The line-up has not been announced although The Smashing Pumpkins are rumored to take part. We'll keep you posted!

WED, February 15th

The US is gearing up to host its own version of the European Song Contest. Obviously, rather than being divided up into countries, each State will send a re-presentative into the competition, with the public voting for the winner at the end. The show which is being developed by NBC hopes to challenge the Fox network’s American Idol which is currently dominating ratings. Ben Silverman chairman of producers Reveille enthused: "Eurovision is the granddaddy of all talent shows and the Super Bowl of singing.” As the BBC reports, a competition will take place in every State to find nominees for the event.

TUE, February 14th

Will Van Halen be the next band to find a new lead singer on 'Rock Star: The Series'? The band's spokesperson "vehemently" denies it. Earlier, Larry Solters, a high-powered Hollywood publicist who reps Van Halen, told TMZ, "I'm not denying it. I'm not going to answer any questions about it." Today, Solters contacted TMZ and said in no way was he confirming the rumor that Van Halen was headed for 'Rock Star'. The next season of 'Rock Star,' produced by Mark Burnett for CBS, is scheduled to air during the summer. Neither Burnett nor CBS would comment on the Van Halen buzz.

MON, February 13th

Have you heard about the Edge 102.1 Ultimate UGLY Contest yet? You could win $8,888.00. It's real simple. Just look around your space. See anything UGLY? Grab it and bring it to the Edge of 228 Yonge Street. We'll take a picture of it and post it here. Then Inside Edge Members will vote on the UGLY-est. Then we give to the winner $8,888.00. For rules and further info head on over to their web site at http://www.edge.ca/
contests/ugly.cfm

Also, a couple of concert things. Look for an Edge show with Hard-Fi sometime in April. Death Cab For Cutie and Franz Ferdinand will play a SOLD OUT Edge presentation at the Docks on April 17th! The only way to get some tickets now is to listen and win them. (No, I cannot tell you exactly when to listen, so don't ask) Oh, and, the New Pornographers will be playing the Edge Next Big Thing Concert series, in concert with Mitsubishi Motors on Friday February 24th at the Horseshoe Tavern - and your only way of getting in is to win through the Inside Edge.

SAT, February 11th

"Monster Ballads: The Platinum Edition", an 18-song collection of "hair-metal" classics, sold 44,000 copies in its first week of release to debut at position No. 18 on next week's The Billboard 200 chart. The complete track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. WARRANT - Heaven
02. SKID ROW - I Remember You
03. POISON - Every Rose Has Its Thorn
04. SLAUGHTER - Fly To The Angels
05. CINDERELLA - Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone)
06. WHITE LION - When The Children Cry
07. WINGER - Headed For A Heartbreak
08. KISS - Forever
09. FIREHOUSE - Love Of A Lifetime
10. DAMN YANKEES - High Enough
11. WHITESNAKE - Is This Love?
12. TESLA - Love Song
13. MR. BIG - To Be With You
14. KIX - Don't Close Your Eyes
15. EUROPE - Carrie
16. EXTREME - More Than Words
17. SCORPIONS - Wind Of Change
18. QUEENSRŸCHE - Silent Lucidity

FRI, February 10th

The Flaming Lips were just confirmed to be performing as part of the 14 annual Noise Pop Festival on Monday, March 27th. The Noise Pop Festival will now run from March 27th through April 2nd in San Francisco, CA., with an the additional day added to accommodate this show as part of the diverse artist line-up. Additional band for this extra day are Minus the Bear, Rogue Wave and Thursday. FESTIVAL BADGES ON SALE FEBRUARY 12. For more info on the entire line-up, how to purchase tickets and other vital information regarding the Festival visit their web site at http://www.noisepop.com/

THU, February 9th

MÖTLEY CRÜE drummer Tommy Lee "got punched in his mouth" at the Shady Bowl Super Party at the State Theatre in Detroit, Michigan last Saturday. According to the report, "the assault was video-taped." Although details are sketchy on this alleged physical confrontation, a observer claims that he saw Lee "get the crap beat out of him by [a local rapper and his] crew after Lee was openly dissing Detroit's own Kid Rock [former fiancé of Tommy's ex-wife Pamela Anderson]. Tommy Lee was supposed to DJ at the Penthouse magazine party later that night but I guess he was a no-show." The assault has not been confirmed by the Lee camp.

WED, February 8th

Robin McAuley, lit up the stage on February 4th at Paladino's in Tarzana, CA. McAuley, formerly of the McAuley Schenker Group (MSG), performed an array of songs from MSG, UFO and his solo album, "Business as Usual". He was accompanied by an incredibly talented band consisting of Dave Bates on lead guitar, Bob Pace on guitar, Bjorn Englen on bass, backing vocals, and Brett Chassen on drums, backing vocals. McAuley's set included such MSG hit songs as, "Gimme Your Love", "Anytime", and "Love is Not a Game".McAuley proved his outstanding voice has not lost a step since his days with MSG. † Between Robin's incredible vocals, and Dave Bate's virtuoso-like guitar solos, the energetic crowd was treated to an evening of rock at its finest. The show concluded with guest singer Manny, of the tribute band "Lights Out", and Robin singing a duet on UFO's "Doctor, Doctor".
Review/Photo by Mike Witt

TUE, February 7th

Editor Susanne's comment about:

11 years of supposedly happy marriage and he (Richie Sambora) had to get the divorce news from a reporter? We are disgusted ...! Feather-Heather's interest on her career goals are more important than her husband and family? Even if they are going to be "ex", shouldn't they still have priority?

MON, February 6th

U.K.'s "Checkout" magazine is reporting that Unilever UK Foods is launching a TV campaign for its "I can't believe it's not Butter" brand featuring Ozzy Osbourne and impersonator Jon Culshaw. The 7-million-pound campaign goes live this month and is designed to support the re-launch of the product, which has a new recipe and design. Jon Culshaw impersonates Ozzy Osbourne in the TV ad, which plays upon the fact that it is as difficult to tell the two Ozzies apart as it is to distinguish between "I can't believe it's not Butter" and butter. "'I can't believe it's not Butter' now tastes so much like butter that the two Ozzies can't tell the difference," added Buchalter. The new pack design features bold blue and yellow lettering and imagery and communicates the brand's new extra buttery taste.

SAT, February 4th

John Lydon is considering reforming the SEX PISTOLS for one final money-spinning show. Lydon - who went by the stage name JOHNNY ROTTEN - has been approached to appear with surviving band mates STEVE JONES, GLEN MATLOCK and PAUL COOK in Japan. The GOD SAVE THE QUEEN rockers are considering to film the show as their final performance and go out with a bang - they last played together at their 20th anniversary gig in London in 1996. "There's been an offer in Japan... we might do it cos the money's great, but secondly it can be filmed and that can be an end-piece. We have done England at Crystal Palace and that's all that counts. And all those that weren't, like other punk bands, can go f**k themselves." Lydon openly admits that the mutual hatred shared by the ex-Sex Pistols works brilliantly on stage, but makes touring impossible. He continues, "We like the fact that we dislike each other. In a weird way it makes us like each other all the more. It's so brazenly in-your-face honest between us. I love being on stage with those chaps - and I wouldn't be seen dead with them off and they'd tell you the same about me."

FRI, February 3rd

Paul McCartney will perform for the first time in the history of the GRAMMY telecast during the 48th Annual GRAMMY Awards. Ellen DeGeneres will introduce the unprecedented McCartney performance. Kelly Clarkson will also perform for the first time on the GRAMMY telecast, and R&B newcomer Ciara will join the lineup for the previously announced tribute to Sly And The Family Stone; both are up for multiple GRAMMY Awards. Newly announced presenters include Destiny's Child, Chris Brown, Bonnie Raitt, Jennifer Love Hewitt. Hosting the GRAMMY Pre-Telecast ceremony are rock guitarist Steve Vai and TV personality Giselle Fernandez. Additional performers, presenters and special segments will be announced soon.  The GRAMMY Awards will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 8, at Staples Center in Los Angeles and will be broadcast in HDTV on CBS at 8 p.m. (ET/PT). The show also will be supported on radio via Westwood One worldwide, and covered online at www.grammy.yahoo.com.

THU, February 2nd

Daniel Biechele, the former manager of Great White has agreed to plead guilty to 100 counts of involuntary manslaughter stemming from the deadly 2003 nightclub fire. With this prosecutor deal, Biechele will serve no more than 10 years in state prison, according to Superior Court Judge Francis Darigan. Biechele was initially charged with 200 counts of involuntary manslaughter when he ignited pyrotechnics during the February 20, 2005 Great White performance at "The Station". Promoters Jeffrey and Michael Derderian, who owned the club, were also charged with 200 counts each of involuntary manslaughter. They are accused of installing the flammable soundproofing foam in violation of the state fire code. They have pleaded not guilty. The three defendants were charged with two counts for each of the 100 people killed. The charges represent separate legal theories of manslaughter.

WED, February 1st

Funk legend SLY STONE will reportedly reunite with the classic SLY + THE FAMILY STONE line-up to perform at the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles on 8 February. Stone - who's real name is Sylvester Steward - hasn't performed live since 1987 and last appeared in public in 1993 when Sly + The Family Stone were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. This performance would mark the first time the classic line-up, including bassist Larry Graham, has played since 1971. Maroon 5, Joss Stone and Aerosmith's Steven tyler and Joe Perry will also team up at the Grammys in a tribute to Sly + The Family Stone.

Tues, February 28th

NEW HINDER MUSIC VIDEO. You knew it was coming, now see it for yourselves! The brand spankin' new video for "Get Stoned" premiered on Yahoo! Music yesterday. The video, shot in Los Angeles and directed by Zach Merck, features the band in their element...fine ass women, pillow fights, booze, and everything else we've come to love about HINDER...oh yea, and one amazing song! Check it out at:
www.myspace.com/hindermusic
www.purevolume.com/hinder
www.hinderonline.com
www.UMRG.com

FRI, February 24th

Braden Merrick, the man who discovered The Killers, filed suit late Tuesday in federal court in Las Vegas. Merrick is claiming that after seeing The Killers play in a Las Vegas club in front of just a few people, he polished them up and found them a record deal. Now Merrick says Brandon Flowers, Ronnie Vannucci Jr., Dave Keuning and Mark Stoermer, kicked him to the curb and breached their contract with him. The "manager who discovers an act and then gets fired" is one of the oldest stories in show business. Woody Allen depicted it beautifully in his classic film, "Broadway Danny Rose." One of the main companies for which The Killers played a private showcase, Merrick says, was Warner Music Group. They passed on signing the group. Ironically, Merrick signed The Killers to Island/DefJam, whose former executives are now installed at Warner’s and could use a hit act like The Killers desperately.Merrick says The Killers have grossed in excess of $25 million during their short career — all due to him. He won’t have too tough a time proving it, from the looks of things. Back in October 2004, Flowers —- the group’s leader — told pollstar.org, an industry Web site — "Braden was a rep for Warner Bros. and he was just looking for bands. Las Vegas was in his territory, so he was checking out LVlocalmusicscene.com. He wanted to sign us to Warner Bros. initially. He got us some showcases, and they didn't want us. He stayed with us and ended up being our manager until we got a record deal, and he's still here."

THU, February 23rd

The Jerry Cantrell's official web site posted an update about the Alice in Chains reunion. Here is his posting:

I hate to keep on saying, this but as most of you have heard Alice will be performing at Nova Rock in Austria. This is true. Alice is back. Europe is a long way to go for just one show, so I feel that we are going to have a lot more to do. Because this is Europe and a big festival don't count on any special Alice tickets but you never know what the future brings. Let me explain why things went down the way they went down. It was not the way we wanted it to happen. The festival promoter secured a bunch of really big bands like Metallica, Guns n' Roses and Alice. The promoter decided to have a big press conference on Monday. We had not finished securing the "business side" of the show by the time Monday rolled around. Because Monday was President's Day, our office was closed and we could not make a decision regarding releasing the info to you guys. Our European agent, because our office was closed made an executive decision to release the show info. We fully support his choice but could not say anything until we spoke to him to get the full story and due to the time difference and travel we could not make the announcement until just now. Guys, please remember that nothing is official unless it comes from our office. We like to surprise you but sometimes that is not always possible. Jerry, Mike, Sean and the management team are doing our best to keep you guys informed. You mean a lot to the guys and they want you to know that. Rock On! and Hello Europe. I feel the rumblings of more stuff coming down the road. CEOJC

WED, February 22nd

The Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Who, The Strokes and Franz Ferdinand have all been confirmed for 2006’s Oxegen Festival. The bill also features the Arctic Monkeys, Kaiser Chiefs, Primal Scream, The Magic Numbers, Sigur Ros, Richard Ashcroft and Damien Marley. Tickets for the festival which takes place at Punchestown in County Kildare (Ireland, Europe) go on sale February 24 at 9am via the MTV website. Felix Da Housecat, Bellx1, David Morales and Manu Chao are also on the line up with more acts expected to be announced shortly.

TUE, February 21st

Metallica and System Of A Down are strongly rumored to have secured the "headliner" and "special guest" slots at this year's Ozzfest, according to "industry insiders". Don't kill us if it doesn't happen and usually we don't go by rumors, but ... News are scars today and there you have it. he Ozzfest organizers are expected to announce the official lineup for this year's festival sometime in March.

MON, February 20th

Late QUEEN frontman Freddie Mercury has been immortalized in plastic by NECA (National Entertainment Collectibles Association), which plans to release the 18-inch-tall figure in late May. The designers portrayed Mercury as he was at QUEEN's famous Wembley Stadium concert in 1986, complete with short hair, moustache, and yellow jacket, as well as a microphone and a mic stand. There will also be a musical component to the figure, but no further information about that has been announced. Mercury died of AIDS in November 1991. QUEEN guitarist Brian May saw a prototype of the action figure, and he wrote on his official BrianMay.com web site, "I think the likeness is amazing... it looks like a real tiny version of Freddie... quite uncanny." QUEEN and current frontman Paul Rodgers will kick off a North American tour in Miami in March 3.

FRI, February 17th

Disturbed have postponed their previously announced spring 2006 European headlining tour. The trek was scheduled to kick off in early March (with "Nevermore" in the support slot), and was called off in order to allow singer David Draiman to rest his voice after several months of intensive touring in the U.S. Back in October 2005, Disturbed cancelled the last seven shows of their European tour because Draiman was suffering from severe acid reflux. When he got back to Los Angeles, Draiman immediately underwent an endoscopy to make sure the surgical work that had been done in the past for his uncooperative stomach hadn't come undone, MTV.com reported last November. Disturbed, who are slated to stay on the road in the U.S. through February 24 in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, have rescheduled their European tour for September. It is not presently clear if "Nevermore" will still occupy the opening slot on the new dates.

THU, February 16th

Iconic rockers THE CURE will head-line the annual Teenage Cancer Trust series of gigs in London on March 6th. Golden Globe-winning comedian RICKY GERVAIS, GOLDFRAPP, THE SCORPIONS and RAZORLIGHT will also perform the concerts organized by THE WHO star ROGER DALTREY, "there is no doubt that these shows really are making a difference to the lives of thousands of teenagers with cancer. rom its inception the event has always been supported by top artists at the cutting edge of music and comedy. very night will be special."

WED, February 15th

MEGADETH have announced the addition of former BLACK LABEL SOCIETY/WHITE LION bassist James Lomenzo to the group's ranks. Lomenzo joins the band as the replacement for James MacDonough (ex-ICED EARTH), who was officially dismissed from the group on February 10, 2006. "I want to thank Jimmy for every-thing and wish him the best in his future endeavors," MEGADETH main man Dave Mustaine said in a statement. "He is knowledgeable and a good enough bassist to run his own outfit, and I look forward to what he does musically." Mustaine added, "It was recommended I check out James Lomenzo by a friend, because I was uncertain which direction I wanted to take with the bassist prior to starting the next record, and everything just clicked." Lomenzo will perform with MEGADETH at their next scheduled live appearance, which is set for March 16 at the Desert Rock 2006 festival in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

TUE, February 14th

Hinder's stop in Ft. Wayne, Indiana turned into an onstage orgy last Thursday night, and if that wasn't enough, butter yet, Girls Gone Wild supposedly captured the entire action on video. "It started off with a thong contest after the set. Girls on shoulders making out, then a Girls Gone Wild wet t-shirt contest begin…30 girls on stage …the judges were pouring water on the girls. There was a small pool on the stage, with 15 girls in there making out ...turned into a full on orgy… in front of 1,800 people.. Apparently the band took part too" ... that's what I call on encore Rock 'n Roll style!.
Hinder is currently headlining the Girls Gone Wild tour in support of their Universal Records release "Extreme Behavior".

MON, February 13th

I know ... it's almost uuie-gooie-hearts day and all you romantics are out there stressing frantically about flowers and chocolate (not that I would refuse either...); but how about giving back to the community? And if my word isn't enough encouragement for
you, how about I throw this at you: a friend of mine has this web-site assoc. with the "Goo Goo Dolls", one of "THE" charitable bands around. AbsoluteGoo.com called to arms to bid on both band and non-band related auction items for the benefit of the Compass House. This particular shelter is in Buffalo, NY and provides safe shelter and services to Runaway and Homeless youth. The Compass House is a place where 16–20 yr old receive guidance and a break from the outside world with access to crisis services, case management, counseling, referrals and
advocacy, independent living instruction & assistance, Emergency food and more.

The Compass House
1451 Main Street, Buffalo NY 14209
Admin. Offices: (716) 886-1351
http://www.compasshouse.org

To participate in the auction and to check out the swag check the AG web-site go to: http://www.absolutegoo.com/
chauction/index.html

To register and bid go to: http://www.absolutegoo.com/
compasshouse.html

Bidding and registration begins on Valentine's Day, February 14th! Just think for a minute ... flowers will wilt, chocolate will make her
fat ... sharing a moment of sanity and spirit of true love...priceless!

SAT, February 11th

The Red Hot Chili Peppers will film a video shortly for their track "Dani California" with director Tony Kaye ("American History X"). The song will appear on the groups upcoming double album "Stadium Arcadium", which is set for a May 09th release date. The band has also released the first dates for their European tour. Dates have been confirmed in France, at the Lyon Halle Tony Garnier (June 6) and Paris Bercy (8-9). Shows are confirmed in the UK, and will be announced this coming Monday (February 13). It's rumored that the band will play football grounds and sporting venues in the UK. From there, shows in Spain will be announced on February 16, German shows follow on February 18, with Czech the last to be confirmed, with an announcement planned on March 1. The tickets will go on sale to the band's fanclub members first, with general sale to follow.

FRI, February 10th

PAUL STANLEY told The Canadian Press that KISS is putting the finishing touches on a line of perfumes and colognes. "They're unrepentantly sexy and a little naughty." Paul also talked about his forthcoming solo album: "It's been about 26 years since my last solo album. That's a big gap. There's a lot of catching up to do. It was something I really felt I needed to do. It was a labor of love. I didn't have to worry about whether or not it was going to succeed, if it sells 10 copies or 10 million copies my life doesn't change any."

THU, February 9th

Movie mogul Joe Roth has snagged the rights to use a stash of BEATLES tunes in a new movie - for $5 million. The big-time producer says, "The Beatles catalogue is owned by two parties - Sony Music and Michael Jackson. We distribute our films through Sony Films, so when we came to them with the idea, they were OK. We worked long and hard at a time when Michael Jackson was somewhat vulnerable and we got the rights; a license for any 30 songs in the catalogue for $5 million. Roth's new film, "ACROSS THE UNIVERSE", is a love story of a boy from Liverpool, England and a girl from New York.

WED, February 8th

INXS' new album Switch is now available as a Dual Disc. The DVD side of the Dual Disc features a documentary on "The Making of Switch." The band also announced their Canadian Tour Dates:

7-May-06 Moncton, NB
8-May-06 Halifax, NS
11-May-06 Montreal, PQ
12-May-06 Ottawa, ON
14-May-06 Toronto, ON Air
15-May-06 London, ON
16-May-06 Kitchener, ON
26-May-06 Winnipeg, MB
27-May-06 Saskatoon, SK
29-May-06 Calgary, AB
30-May-06 Edmonton,
1-Jun-06 Vancouver, BC
For all the latest dates and to get  the latest INXS news postings via RSS feeds (that allow you to pull personalized content into My Yahoo, My MSN, Google, Bloglines or any other site that allows RSS), visit www.inxsusa.com

TUE, February 7th

CELTIC FROST’s new release “Monotheist” has been confirmed with a street date of May 29 in Europe and May 30 in North America. As an update on CELTIC FROST’s festival appearances the band has just been confirmed as headliner of the Rock Hard Festival (D) annually organized by the well-known German hard rock/metal magazine on June 2nd to 4th, 2006. Further festivals headlined by the band include the European metal event No.1 Wacken Festival (D), Sweden Rock (S), With Full Force (D), Tuska Festival (FIN) and Hole In The Sky (N). US dates have not yet been set, but are sure to follow soon.

MON, February 6th

Famed guitar virtuoso Vinnie Moore (VICIOUS RUMORS, ALICE COOPER, UFO) has set "Collection - The Shrapnel Years" as the title of his upcoming "best of" compilation, due in March. His last solo CD, "Defying Gravity", was released in 2001. Moore is also continuing to work on material for the next UFO CD with the group's lead singer, Phil Mogg. No release date has yet been set for the effort. UFO recently released a live CD/DVD, "Showtime", via SPV. The set was recorded at Pumpwerk in Wilhelmshaven, Germany on May 13, 2005.

SAT, February 4th

Scott Weiland's planning to come clean about his journey to get clean. The Velvet Revolver frontman just inked a publishing deal with Scribner to write his memoir, which will include stories about his rise to rock stardom in Stone Temple Pilots, his battles with drugs, and his life now that he's sober.

FRI, February 3rd

The year is 1946. Winston Churchill held his "Iron Curtain" speech at the UN General Assembly in London, while in Southern California, in a small radio repair shop, Leo Fender built the first Model 26 instrument amplifier. Soon after, he would create the legendary instrument that musicians around the world play with great pride - the Fender Guitar! 2006 is Fender’s Diamond Anniversary (1946-2006), and to celebrate 60 incredible and innovative years, Fender unveiled a commemorative Stratocaster, a commemorative Telecaster, a commemorative Precision Bass and a commemorative Jazz Basssome,
that each embody a unique blend of vintage and modern features.
Each impressive instrument pays reverent homage to Fender’s legendary past while simultaneously raising the bar for a brilliant future. But you better get one quick—these fantastic instruments are only available in 2006! Check this link for further details http://www.fender.com/
emailnews/jan2006/

THU, February 2nd

The lineup for Bonnaroo 2006 has been announced. The Music Festival is scheduled for June 16-18, 2006 in Manchester, TN. Confirmed headliners are: Radiohead, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and Elvis Costello & the Imposters. Other acts include: Death Cab for Cutie, moe, Bright Eyes, The Neville Brothers, Bela Fleck & the Flecktones, Buddy Guy, Damian Marley, Ben Folds, Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Dr. John,
Matisyahu, G. Love & Special Sauce
My Morning Jacket, Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, Steel Pulse,
Mike Gordon and Ramble, Dove,
Cat Power, Medeski Martin & Wood,
Nickel Creek, Gomez, Steve Earle,
Blues Traveler, Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks, Dresden Dolls, Son Volt,
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Jerry Douglas, Soulive, Rusted Root,
Devendra Banhart Band, Donavon Frankenreiter, Mike Doughty,
Sasha, Grace Potter & the Nocturnals, The Magic Numbers,
Bill Frisell, Seu Jorge, Bettye LaVette, Dungen, Shooter Jennings,
Rebirth Brass Band, Robinella,
Andrew Bird, Steel Train, Jackie Greene, Devotchka, Wood Brothers
dios (malos), Toubab Krewe, Marah
I-Nine, Balkan Beat Box, Cat Empire.

WED, February 1st

AUDIOSLAVE will release its third album this June, announced a spokesperson for the band's label. An exact release date, title and track listing are not yet available. Although there was a two-and-a-half year gap between the band's self-titled 2002 debut and its 2005 sophomore effort, "Out Of Exile", the new disc will arrive just over a year since "Out Of Exile"'s release last May. AUDIOSLAVE plans to get back on the road sometime in early 2006, according to recent postings at the band's official web site. Lead singer Chris Cornell has been in the news recently for suing his ex-wife and SOUNDGARDEN manager Susan Silver, claiming she overstepped her professional boundaries and also conspired to keep money and personal property from him. AUDIOSLAVE's single, "Doesn't Remind Me", has been nominated for a Grammy in the category of Hard Rock Performance.

Tues, February 28th

Yesterday marked the introduction of Heineken's Premium Light Beer. To celebrate the arrival of this unique Luxury Light beer, Criss Angel designed a death defying escape that amazed and spellbound his audience. Heineken USA invited domestic light beer drinkers to "?succumb to smooth?" with the national launch of Heineken Premium Light.  The Company has commissioned Criss Angel to introduce the brand to New Yorkers and to the country with a never-before-executed stunt that will capture the "?surprisingly smooth?" essence of the brand and leave audiences amazed. Criss Angel is known for his A&E acclaimed television series "Mindfreak".

FRI, February 24th

KORN will be honored with a bronze plaque to commemorate a "lifetime of achievement" and will have a street named after them in their hometown of Bakersfield, CA. The ceremony will take place today at the Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield, right before the band kick off their "See You on the Other Side" world tour. The mayor, city councilmen, and other city and arena officials are scheduled to appear at the ceremony. KORN's North American tour will wrap up on April 4 in Toronto, Canada. MUDVAYNE and 10 YEARS will be the opening acts. "See You On The Other Side" has sold 702,000 copies since its release on December 6, according to Nielsen SoundScan. KORN recently shot a video for "Coming Undone", the second single from "See You On The Other Side".

THU, February 23rd

Sammy and the Wabos are touring this summer!  Oh Yeah Baby!! Look out for the “Livin’ It Up” tour coming to your town! Tour dates will be available soon, but to get you started, Sammy and the Wabos will be at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, New Jersey on Friday, June 30th!  Tickets go on sale this coming Saturday, February 25th at 9am EST via Ticketmaster, There will also be presales! Go to www.q1043.com, www.wrat.com, www.wdhafm.com for presale details! ALSO, Sammy will be offering his fun & fabulous VIP Cantina experience! VIP is perfect for those of you  who want to be "Livin it Up" but feel the audience is just too far away from Sammy and the Wabos!... Stay tuned to redrocker.com for details on how to purchase YOUR VIP cantina experience!!!

WED, February 22nd

A guitar once owned/used by late NIRVANA front man Kurt Cobain will be featured in the Heritage Auction Galleries' April 15 Signature Music & Entertainment auction, to be held in Dallas, Texas. "This instrument is unusual in a couple of ways," Heritage's Music & Entertainment expert, Doug Norwine, said. "First, it is the only known example of a Mark V style Mosrite Gospel model. While Kurt owned and smashed many cheaper copies of Mosrite guitars during his career, this was one of only two actual Mosrites he owned. It was also one of his favorite guitars." Cobain purchased the guitar in San Francisco in 1990 and painted the very small Mosrite dot marks with white-out to make them more visible in a live setting. Although the previous owner removed this simple modification, residue is still visible on the instrument. This is a factory right handed instrument, so it was modified for Kurt with a strap button added to the treble side horn, and the original metal string guide has been flipped to allow it to be strung left handed. Heritage said the lot also includes a hand-written letter from Chris Cobb, who sold Cobain the guitar in the fall of 1990. The guitar carries a presale estimate of $75,000-up.

TUE, February 21st

Chance to win: TRIP FOR TWO TO TASTE OF CHAOS - LONG BEACH, CA. One Grand Prize winner will receive:
• A Trip for two to Taste of Chaos at the Long Beach Arena plus accommodations and transportation to and from the show!
• Backstage passes and an opportunity to meet all the artists and get a guitar signed by Thrice, The Deftones, Atreyu, Story of The Year and American Eyes.
• Nintendo DS system with Mario Kart DS and True Swing Golf from Nintendo, along with various games from Activision and Atari
• Two Pair of shoes from New Balance
• A year's supply of Rockstar Energy Drink! 
One runner up winner will receive a Nintendo DS system with Mario Kart DS and True Swing Golf from Nintendo, along with various games from Activision and Atari, plus two pairs of New Balance shoes. Click here to enter:
http://www.totalassault.com/
contests/ ?contest=00334

MON, February 20th

Scott Stapp may be getting an unexpected wedding present from Red Light District. The porn distributor plans to follow up their successful release of the Paris Hilton sex tape with one they just obtained featuring the former Creed frontman and Kid Rock. The 45-minute video reportedly features Stapp and Kid Rock "engaging in a series of randy tour bus shenanigans with four groupies". Although video primarily shows "two women engaged in a sexual tryst with Rock", there is no mention of any real action featuring the "Christian Rock" singer aside from a clip released on the net where Stapp proclaims "It's good to be the king!" and the mention of "tour bus groupies". Red Light District president David Joseph said that the tape was filmed in Miami in 2000 and he hopes to release it this year on DVD at about $70-$80 a pop.

FRI, February 17th

A new Guns N' Roses track has made its way onto the Internet. The track appears to be a near studio quality demo of the song "I.R.S.", the same song that was played on Eddie Trunk's radio show by New York Mets' Mike Piazza in August of 2003. Another new song titled "Better" has partially leaked; the 1 minute 20 second clip is making the rounds on the web. It is not known if the final versions of "I.R.S." and "Better" will make it onto the long delayed album; which brings us to the question: "Will there be Chinese Democracy" in 2006? "It's a very complex record," said Rose, "I'm trying to do something different. Some of the arrangements are kind of like Queen. Some people are going to say, 'It doesn't sound like Axl Rose, it doesn't sound like Guns n' Roses.'" He then smiled and added, "But you'll like at least a few songs on there."

THU, February 16th

Franz Ferdinand’s Alex Kapranos believes that legally downloading songs is a good thing because it will force artists to make better songs. He claims downloading means artists have to impress more by making albums of great songs, rather than just a few hit singles. As contact music quotes, he explains: "I like the idea that, because of downloading, people are gonna buy songs only if they are good. It means lazy bands aren't going to get away with giving you the one hit single and an album full of fillers." Hear, hear!

WED, February 15th

Ben Graves of MURDERDOLLS and DOPE fame will be joining ANTIPRODUCT on the road in Europe this month as both the support and headline band, attempting to play 20 sets in 10 days! "That's right, two sets a night for our boys and girls as they explode all over Europe, first as ANTIPRODUCT and then leading the mass sing-a-long, rock 'n' roll overdrive meltdown celebration of some of the best songs ever written with Marky Ramone himself on the skins during an all-RAMONES, bedlam-inciting party mess to end all messes!". Greg D'Angelo (ex-ANTHRAX, ZAKK WYLDE, WHITE LION) is still ANTIPRODUCT's full-time drummer but scheduling conflicts cast him as ANTIPRODUCT's producer in Los Angeles. The band's version of the BEACH BOYS classic "Good Vibrations" is already garnering them L.A. radio play. Singer Alex Kane is currently in LA making an album with ENUFF Z'NUFF's leads singer Donnie Vie, tentatively due later in the year.

TUE, February 14th

Oasis have signed a one million dollar advertising deal with tele-communications company AT&T to use their track "All Around The World" on a new TV advert. Not surprisingly, Oasis were grossly hypocritical after outspoken guitarist Noel Gallagher ripped into White Stripes star Jack White for writing a song for a Coca-Cola commercial. He said, “Jack White has just done a song for Coca Cola. End of. He ceases to be in the club. "He's supposed to be the porter boy for the alternative way of thinking. I'm not having that, that's wrong. "Particularly Coca Cola, it is like doing a gig for McDonalds."
Different story now that the money is in their own bank account; amazing how the "green" can change minds!

MON, February 13th

Since his solo debut in 2000, Richard Ashcroft has been fending off critics who proclaim his best work was with now-defunct '90s psych-pop behemoths, The Verve. But when it came time to record "Keys To The World," the 34-year-old singer-songwriter found himself digging through old Beatles records for inspiration. He's embraced his past success. Heck, he doesn't even bristle when asked what he thinks about all the Verve questions that are lobbed his way. "It proves the songs that I wrote during that period were so strong. If those songs hadn't been strong, no one would be talking about them." Ashcroft, who got a big whooping introduction back into the musical spotlight at last summer's Live8, where he sang "Bittersweet Symphony" with Coldplay, says his latest record is very much an extension of the musical ideas he's toyed with on earlier releases. "Keys To The World" is in stores now with Ashcroft being scheduled to appear with Coldplay at Ottawa's Scotiabank Place, March 17, and Toronto's Air Canada Centre, March 22 and 23.

SAT, February 11th

Linkin Park have picked Rick Rubin (Slayer, Red Hot Chili Peppers) to produce their new album which they will begin recording in the coming months. The band states in their official web site that the direction of the new album is not yet decided on, but that they are striving to come up with something different than what they have done before. "The first 2 albums are interlinked as chapters, because they established our sound. I think we need to freshen that up and come up with a different approach", said Joe Hahn. Check their web site for info and updates at http://www.linkinpark.com

FRI, February 10th

JUDAS PRIEST management co-ordinator Jayne Andrews has posted the following message on the group's official web site: "Having been touring for nearly two years, the band was badly in need of recharging! They have started work on their new studio album a couple of days ago and have decided not to do any touring this year".
Japan's Burrn! magazine has released the following polls for Judas Priest in 2006:

Best Group of the year
Best Album of the year (Angel Of Retribution)
The Best Live Performance in Japan
The Best Album Cover (Angel Of Retribution)
The Best Vocalist of the year: Rob Halford

THU, February 9th

Roadrunner Records will release their 3rd installment of the MTV Headbangers Ball compilation entitled 'MTV Headbangers Ball - "The Revenge"' on April 11th. The two disc album will includes:

Disc 1
1. Slipknot - "Before I Forget"
2. Korn - "Liar"
3. Iron Maiden - "The Trooper"
4. Hatebreed - "To the Threshold"
5. Mudvayne - "Forget to Remember"
6. Avenged Sevenfold - "Burn it Down"
7. HIM - "Vampire Heart"
8. Trivium - "A Gunshot to the Head of Trepidation"
9. Lamb of God - "Now You've Got Something to Die For"
10. 10 Years - "Wasteland"
11. Disturbed - "Guarded"
12. As I Lay Dying - "Through Struggle"
13. Lacuna Coil - "Our Truth"
14. Underoath - "Its Dangerous Business Walking Out Your Front Door"
15. Mastodon - "Blood & Thunder"
16. Killswitch Engage - "A Bid Farewell" (Live)
17. Black Label Society - "In This River"
18. Bleeding Through - "Kill to Believe"
19. In Flames - "Take This Life"

Disc 2
1. Chimaira - "Nothing Remains"
2. Bullet For My Valentine - "Suffocating Under Words of Sorrow (What Can I Do)"
3. Arch Enemy - "Nemesis"
4. It Dies Today - "Severed Ties Yield Severed Heads"
5. Opeth - "The Grand Conjuration"
6. Norma Jean - "Liarsenic"
7. DevilDriver - "Hold Back the Day"
8. Still Remains - "The Worst is Yet to Come"
9. God Forbid - "The End of the World"
10. Throwdown - "Burn"
11. From First To Last - "The Latest Plague"
12. 36 Crazyfists - "Ill Go Until My Heart Stops"
13. Dragonforce - "Through the Fire and Flames"
14. A Life Once Lost - "Vulture"
15. High On Fire - "Devilution"
16. Bloodsimple - "Sell Me Out"
17. Haste The Day - "When Everything Falls"
18. Walls Of Jericho - "A Trigger Full of Promises"
19. Kingdom of Sorrow - "Buried in Black"

WED, February 8th

Newcomer "The Bangkok Five" are getting ready for the release of their debut album titled "WHO’S GONNA TAKE US ALIVE"?, scheduled for March 28. Hailing from Hollywood, CA the band offers blistering performances on their full-length debut album. Vocalist FROST paired with tB5 rhythm section is sure to make a permanent staple in strip clubs nationwide. In the last year, THE BANGKOK FIVE have shared the stage with Peaches, Hot Hot Heat, Moonie Suzuki, Noise Conspiracy, Zeke, The Bronx, Danko Jones, Young Heart Attack and had the honor of playing the UK’s Download Festival with the Stooges, Linkin Park and Metallica. Look for an upcoming interview soon!  

TUE, February 7th

Music Video Distributors and Angel Air are pleased to announce the home viewing release "Gillan - Live Edinburgh 1980" for US distribution on DVD. This performance of Ian Gillan (DEEP PURPLE) and his band was filmed for Scottish TV (STV) in 1980: Their most successful year. The album "Glory Road" entered the UK charts at Number 3. Special features include an performance of "Cannonball" by G.M.T. (featuring ex-GILLAN members Bernie Torme, John McCoy and Robin Guynew), in-depth interviews with Bernie Torme, John McCoy, Colin Towns and Mick Underwood, a history of Gillan by Joe Geesin, and a Photo Gallery.
Track listing:
1. Unchain Your Brain
2. Trouble
3. If You Believe Me
4. Mutually Assured Destruction (M.A.D.)
5. No Easy Way

Bonus Archive Footage
6. Vengeance
7. Smoke On The Water
8. Sleeping On The Job

MON, February 6th

Death Cab for Cutie and Franz Ferdinand are co-headlining a North American concert tour, beginning on March 22nd in Portland, Oregon. The upcoming itinerary coincides with the ongoing success of "PLANS," Death Cab for Cutie's first album for Atlantic Records. Released at the end of August, the album has been certified gold by the RIAA for U.S. sales in excess of 500,000 units. The band recently performed on NBC-TV's "Saturday Night Live" and can next be seen on national television when their appearance on PBS-TV's "Austin City Limits" premieres on February 11th.

SAT, February 4th

GODSMACK have set an April 25 release date for their new album, "IV". The album's first single, "Speak", will be released to radio on Tuesday, February 14. Frontman Sully Erna said in a recent interview "It's a killer record (referring to the new album), and I'm really curious to see what the public's going to think of it. The toughness of the sound is still there, but we've expanded a little bit more. After 'Faceless', we started to spread our wings a bit and reintroduce guitar solos and stuff like that. The acoustic record [2004's 'The Other Side'] was a departure and it was very well received. It opened up a new audience for us — a lot more adults were coming to the shows, bringing their kids and having a glass of wine. That gave us a permission slip to take it to the next level. "It will perk people's eyebrows up again," he added. Other song titles expected to appear on the CD include "Livin' in Sin", "Shine Down" (which comes complete with "killer harmonica") and "Voodoo Too". Check out photos from GODSMACK's recent listening sessions and interviews for the new album in LA at http://www.godsmack.com/gallery/
viewer.asp?id=56944&category_id
=19307

FRI, February 3rd

MAN-RAZE, the new band featuring DEF LEPPARD guitarist Phil Collen, have posted the following message on their official web site: "What is happening with our album? The simple answer is that it's not yet ready! Let us explain: As you can imagine, the Spitz show had a huge impact on us — we finally felt we had discovered our sound as a band! We then went back to the recordings and realized that we could easily improve on some of them. We also had a rush of new material, that we naturally wanted to include on the album. So we have been re-working some of the recordings and weaving the new songs into the album — the result being that the album is sounding bigger and more powerful than ever! The truth is we are pleased that we haven't rushed to release it, because it will be so much better when it comes out!" In addition to Collen, MAN-RAZE — which formed in 2004 after Collen returned to London from Southern California to care for his sick father — features SEX PISTOLS drummer Paul Cook and bassist Simon Laffy, a former bandmate of Collen's from the early Eighties glam outfit GIRL.

THU, February 2nd

KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons is one of celebrities whose customized "kiss" appears on limited-edition real U.S. postage stamps, called ZazzleStamps, to celebrate Valentine's Day in partnership with The Humane Society of the United States. The stamps will only be available through February 28, 2006. In accordance with the established Zazzle Community Giving Program, The Humane Society of the United States will be receiving up to 27% of the total net sales from the stamps. Each sheet includes 20 individual large-format stamps and is available in the most common rates. Buy the stamps at http://www.zazzle.com

WED, February 1st

Riot bassist Pete Perez fell at Mark Reale's (guitar) house in Long Island and suffered a major blow to his head. He was rushed to the ER after being confused about his whereabouts. Pete was detained overnight for tests and observation. Riot's official website message reads: "After several hours in the hospital, Pete started to come around but still was a bit foggy. The rest of the band did not want to cancel the shows on Jan 27th in Las Vegas and decided to perform as a four-piece. The boys played all the hits and each night made an announcement about Pete's condition and why he was not going to be performing with the band. The band would like to thank all the fans who made their way to each show. This was a history-making weekend for RIOT but all of you supported them so well. Hats off to all our fans. "Pete will return to San Antonio on Monday. He will need to rest and recoup from his medical condition, therefore the band will have to reschedule Friday, February 3rd at Jaxx. The band just will not be able to reset this soon and are very sorry to all the fans that where making their way to this show, but the band just cannot make this show at this time."