music news

30 Seconds To Mars Fights Off Crazed Fan

Thirty Seconds To Mars will remember last Thursday for an event that didn’t go off.  The group was planning a sneak look at their upcoming documentary at their Hive headquarters in Los Angeles when a bomb threat was issued and a mass evacuation took place.  Singer Jared Leto says a man in a hoodie pushed his way into the venue with a large, wrapped box and dropped the package at his feet before exclaiming, quote, “It’s time for a little self-help.”  Leto noticed the man break into the screening and ask for assistance, but the guy made it to the stage and began to make a speech before Leto grabbed him and pulled him out the back door.  The venue was then evacuated, the person in question was apprehended by police, and the event was pushed back until Friday night. 
Leto told “MTV News,” quote, “As I tried to talk to him, he got more and more aggressive.  I saw he was not well, and then he started to read out of his book again, saying he had a message for me.  And in these circumstances, you get protective of fans and friends, so I was concerned a little.  We were all cautious.  He kept trying to push his way back in, but we stopped him.  It was pretty surreal, but at the same time, I did feel some empathy.”

Tom DeLonge Balances Blink, Angels      

Tom DeLonge is doing his best to be both a member of Blink-182 and Angels & Airwaves, but his schedule is quite filled at the moment.  DeLonge tells AlternativePress.com, quote, “Blink are in the process of scheduling how we are going to record the next record.  The only issue we’re having now is that Angels are having quite a lot of electricity being built, so we kind of have the release of our life, and with this film and everything, we’re just trying to schedule how we’re going to be able to be in the studio.”  DeLonge says his Blink bandmates have been supportive of Angels & Airwaves, and Mark Hoppus even does a remix that will be available on the sellable version of the album.  The singer adds that the current plan is to meet a couple of times a week until Angels heads out on tour this spring.  Then after the tour is done, the Blink members plan to really dig in on their studio album. 
DeLonge says that he’s happy to have two great bands and says there’s a lot of “one step at a time” moments for him.  Angels & Airwaves’ album will be released digitally for free on Valentine’s Day, with a physical expanded release for sale coming at a later date. 

Pitchfork Features Modest Mouse, LCD Soundsystem

Chicago area music fans can start getting excited about the Pitchfork Music Festival again.  The music weekend takes place July 16th-18th and features Modest Mouse, LCD Soundsystem, and Pavement among others.  Modest Mouse is assigned to the Friday date, typically reserved for acts performing full albums in their entirety.  LCD Soundsystem joins Raekwon on Saturday, while the reunited Pavement appear to be the curators for a Sunday lineup that includes St. Vincent, Lightning Bolt, Cass McCombs, Here We Go Magic, and Sleigh Bells.  Tickets for the event, which takes place at Chicago’s Union Park, are currently on sale.  Additional acts will be named in the coming months. 

LCD’s Murphy Soundtracks Greenberg

LCD Soundsystem is working on a new album, but first there will be a soundtrack for the upcoming Ben Stiller film “Greenberg” primarily featuring LCD mastermind James Murphy.  He included the cuts: “People,” “Sleepy Baby,” “Thumbs,” “Plenty Of Time,” “Photographs,” “Gente,” “Birthday Song,” “Dear You,” “If You Need A Friend,” “Please Don’t Follow Me,” a piano version of “Photographs,” and LCD Soundsystem’s “Oh You (Christmas Blues)” for the film.  The soundtrack, which is due March 22nd, also features cuts from The Steve Miller Band, Nite Jewel, Albert Hammond, Galaxie 500, Sonics, and Duran Duran.

My Chemical Romance Cancels Soundwave Festival Date

My Chemical Romance will not be making their planned trip to Australia for the Soundwave Festival after some vocal woes for singer Gerard Way.  The frontman has been advised by physicians to forego the tour and receive treatment on his throat and vocal chords to protect their long term use.  Way apologizes for their absence and promises the band will return as soon as they possibly can.  Meanwhile, Jimmy Eat World has stepped up to fill in for the band.  The group is taking a break from recording their next album to take part in the festival. 

Paramore’s Farro Bows Out Of Tour      

Paramore will be minus a familiar face when they travel to the Pacific Rim for shows.  Guitarist Josh Farro says in a new journal posting that he’s been granted some time off as he’s recently gotten engaged and is planning a wedding.  Farro writes, quote, “I feel really blessed to be able to take this time off, especially in the midst of this record cycle.  The band has been extremely supportive and gracious to me about all of this which has made it a lot easier.”  Justin York, Taylor York’s brother, will fill in for Farro on the dates.  Josh says, quote, “He’s an awesome dude.  You all will love him.  I know it’s strange having someone fill in for me.  I don’t like it anymore than you guys do, but this is the most important thing in the world to me and I trust you all will understand.”

A Fading Oasis

It appears that Oasis is ready to fade away, with a new band to emerge in its place.  Singer Liam Gallagher tells “XFM” of the name of his band, quote, “It’s not Oasis…I’m glad to see the back of it.  There’s one [new band name] that we’re digging at the moment, but we’re going to get on with the music and see how it goes.  If we haven’t got a better one by then, we’ll go with the one we’re into.”  Gallagher went on to add that the band is halfway through the demos for the new album, have plans to meet with potential producers in April, and hope to start recording in June and July.  He also stated that the group will be back on stage later this year.

Gallagher To Attend Sentencing

Danny Sullivan will get his day in court, just a little later than expected.  Sullivan is the man who crashed the stage in Toronto during Oasis’ 2008 gig and tackled Noel Gallagher, leading to five broken ribs for the guitarist and a string of canceled dates for the band.  Sullivan was scheduled to be sentenced on Friday, but the judge agreed to a delay after a late request by Gallagher to attend the sentencing in person.  Gallagher wanted to read his victim impact statement during the proceedings.  Court was adjourned until Gallagher could pick a date to appear.

Something Corporate In The Studio

There’s good news for Something Corporate fans.  There appears to be an existence for the reunited Something Corporate beyond their Bamboozle California headlining gig this spring.  “OC Weekly” reports that the group recently spent time in a Santa Monica recording studio.  Singer Andrew McMahon says, quote, “We basically went back with this idea that we would kind of revisit a couple of demos that we never really ended up putting on the first two records, but that we still loved and that we always wanted to get to.”  McMahon says one of the songs is a Josh Partington-penned track called “Wait” that has grown from its acoustic version to a full band song.  “Letters To Noelle” is a track from McMahon’s writing that’s also getting a new look.  The newly updated songs will be part of a still-untitled Something Corporate “best-of” set that’s expected later this spring. 

Deftones Shelve “Eros” For Now
 
The Deftones are nearing a new album release, but the path to get there was not an easy one.  Singer Chino Moreno tells Spin.com that the band decided to scrap their “Eros” album after bassist Chi Cheng slipped into a coma after his vehicle accident.  Moreno says, quote, “We didn’t can it completely—we still have ‘Eros.’  It’s a really experimental, dark record for us, and it’s special because it’s the last thing that Chi played on.  We’ve put it in the vault and will release it when the time is right—hopefully when Chi is back on his feet.  But when the accident happened, we just didn’t want to be in that time anymore.”  Moreno says the new album has the aggressive overtones and lush openness that the band is known for, but in a different way.  He adds, quote, “There are a few heavy songs, like our first couple records, and there are also experimental tunes—but there’s not a minute on this record that feels like it doesn’t need to be there.
Each sound compliments the other.  I’ll straight-up say it: It’s definitely one of our best albums.”  The still-untitled disc is expected later this year. 

Alice In Chains Wants Your Vote

Alice In Chains are back, but many things have changed since they last recorded.  Drummer Sean Kinney tells Noisecreep.com that with the way music consumption is changing, so is their own view of success and survival.  He explains, quote, “People don’t buy music anymore.  It costs so much to tour and make shirts, so you lose money.  If you want to support a band, vote with your dollar, for your entertainment, that will make a better product for you to enjoy.  Fans don’t realize that so many bands have to go and get a day job after touring and making records.”  Kinney says that he recalls having a finished product handed to him prior to the album’s release, and then decided to check some of the torrent sites and found that the disc was already on six of them with 350-thousand people grabbing the music within three hours.  With that kind of rampant downloading, Kinney says that his group and others need your “vote” more than ever to continue putting out a
great product.

Atreyu Prepared For Mayhen

Atreyu may be putting off headlining until this summer, but what a headlining spot they’ve got.  The group will front the Mayhem Stage at the Rockstar Energy Mayhem Festival beginning July 10th in San Bernardino, California.  Singer Alex Varkatzas says, quote, “It’ll be awesome and we’re really looking forward to it.  I really like playing the heavier stuff.  The more upbeat and fast-paced, the better.  So I’m stoked.”  Bassist Marc McKnight adds, quote, “We’re gonna incorporate some of the older songs we haven’t played in a while,” while pointing to “Someone’s Standing On My Chest,” “You Eclipse Me” and the heavier “Lead Sails Paper Anchor” and “Congregation Of The Damned” tracks as possibilities.  Though not on the main stage, Varkatzas says he’s fine with that as they love being able to connect with crowds and this will provide a better opportunity to do so. 
In other Atreyu news, the group just shot a new video for “Lonely” with director Sean Stiegemeier.  The video focuses on performances from their recent Japan stops and mixes in footage of the band taking in the sights and sounds of Tokyo and Osaka.

Dredg Holds Remix Contest

Dredg is currently holding a remix contest for the song “Gathering Pebbles.”  The winner will have their song sold on iTunes, receive producer-remixer royalties, and will have a crack at Dredg merchandise and two tickets to any show.  They also get a painting done by bassist Drew Roulette, who has also created some of their album art.  Head to RemixWizard.MixMatchMusic.com/contestrules/201 to download the song stems and get details on how to enter and post your music.

music news

Arcade Fire Change Tune, License Song To NFL For Haiti

Arcade Fire is teaming up with the NFL for a cause.  While the group has previously balked at selling the rights to their songs for commercial ventures, the band is allowing the NFL to use their track “Wake Up” to help soundtrack breaks during the Super Bowl.  Band members say they’ll give all the money they make from licensing the song to Partners In Health, to support the charity in its Haitian earthquake relief efforts.  The track will earn money for the organization during the live broadcast of the game this weekend, as well as with any future broadcasts of the game on the NFL Network.  Super Bowl 44 takes place this Sunday in Miami.  The Indianapolis Colts are facing the New Orleans Saints in the big game, which will air on CBS.

Aussie Court Rules Against Men At Work

Men At Work is involved in a new a legal dispute.  HollywoodReporter.com states that a Federal Court judge in Australia ruled on Thursday that the ‘80s band had lifted portions their breakthrough hit “Down Under” from another song.  Judge Peter Jacobson said the rockers pulled a “substantial part” of their signature song from the campfire tune “Kookaburra Sits In The Old Gum Tree.”  The judge added that “Kookaburra’s” publisher Larrikin Music Publishing may now pursue damages from songwriters Colin Hay and Ron Strykert, as well as from Men At Work’s record label.  Larrikin first initiated compensation proceedings in 2008 against Hay, Strykert, EMI Songs Australia, and EMI Publishing Australia.  “Down Under” was recorded for Men At Work’s 1981 LP, “Business As Usual.”  The song hit number one on the U.S., British, and Australian charts.

Oasis Attacker To Be Sentenced Friday

The man accused of shoving Oasis guitarist Noel Gallagher at last fall’s Virgin Festival in Toronto is scheduled to be sentenced today.  Daniel Sullivan rushed the stage during Oasis’ set at the 2008 edition of the Canadian event, and knocked Gallagher into some monitors.  He then targeted Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher, but security guards were able to stop him before he reached the singer.  Noel Gallagher suffered three broken ribs along with other cuts and bruises in the incident, and Oasis was forced to cancel several tour dates to give the guitarist time to recover.  “The Toronto Star” says that at his hearing last November, Sullivan entered a guilty plea concerning the attack.  He also admitted to being intoxicated, and said he had no memory of how he made it to the stage.

Unreleased Weezer Song Featured In Cancer Research Download Fundraiser

Weezer is one of several acts taking part in the new “The Right Track: Tunes To TargetCancer” download series.  The group is contributing the previously unreleased song “The Rat Race” to the fundraiser.  The track dates back to 2003, and was originally recorded for an acoustic album that ultimately never surfaced.  In addition, Ween, The Donnas, Cowboy Junkies, and Buffalo Tom are also featured in the first “Right Track” batch, along with Linda Thompson, Mike Viola, The Gravel Pit, and others.  More songs will be added over time.  Each download costs a minimum of 99-cents, but those who want to give more are welcome to bump up the purchase price.  Proceeds will support research efforts into finding cures for rare and lesser known cancers.  To learn more about “The Right Track: Tunes To TargetCancer” or to download a song, visit http://www.righttracktunes.org.

The Cure Frontman Singing With Others

The Cure’s Robert Smith is finding other outlets for his voice these days.  The musician recently revealed that his solo track “Very Good Advice” would turn up on the “Alice In Wonderland” soundtrack, and he’s noted that he has a few other projects in the works with other artists as well.  According to Twentyfourbit.com, one of Smith’s new collaborations will be with vocalist Anik Jean on a cover of the Earl Slick song “Believe.”  A second pairing finds Smith teaming with the instrumental rock outfit 65daysofstatic on a track called “Come To Me.”  The song is slated to appear on the band’s upcoming CD.  Smith is also reportedly working with a third artist, but details on that collaboration haven’t been announced yet.

Temper Trap Trap Producer By Chance

Temper Trap credits their catchy, hypnotic-atmospheric sound in part to their producer.  Singer Dougie Mandagi says the Australian band feels fortunate they had Jim Abbiss at the helm for their debut album, “Conditions.”  Abbiss has also worked with such groups as Editors, Kasabian, and Arctic Monkeys.  Mandagi says the pairing came about through a series of lucky breaks.
Mandagi notes that Abbiss got Temper Trap’s demo purely by chance.  He explains that Abbiss’ manager was in Australia to check out another band sharing the bill with Temper Trap, and thought Temper Trap and Abbiss would work well together.  Mandagi adds that Abbiss was just what his group needed.  He explains, quote, “We always had the atmospherics and knew what we wanted it to sound like, but didn’t have the equipment or know-how, so it’s a good thing he came along.”  Temper Trap is currently promoting their debut album, “Conditions.”

Crash Kings Are Guitar-Free, And Plan To Stay That Way

Crash Kings are doing their best to differentiate themselves from other groups.  The rockers have one unique trait—there is no guitar player in the group.  Frontman Tony Beliveau says that was intentional, noting when he and his brother Mike, the band’s bassist, talked about their group they wanted to, quote, “figure out a way to do it without guitar.”  He says he thinks they’ve been successful in bypassing the standard rock instrument.
Beliveau says their unusual sound helped land them their record deal with Linda Perry’s label, and adds that she’s encouraged them to remain guitar-free.  Crash Kings’ music has a certain guitar-like sound to it which comes from a clavinet—an instrument Tony plays that combines a keyboard with strings.  Crash Kings are promoting their self-titled debut album, which features the hit “Mountain Man.”

Cavo Survives Long Hours In A Maze For “Crash” Clip

Cavo is trying something new with their latest video.  The group shot the clip for “Crash” in a junkyard.  Singer Casey Walker says this was the band’s first true introduction to a concept video, noting their clip for the song “Champagne” basically just required them to play live.  He says he had fun at the shoot, but admits it included a lot of time just hanging around—which he didn’t expect.
Guitarist Chris Hobbs says Cavo picked the salvage yard for the location because they thought it was “a cool spot.”  He adds, quote, “It was kind of funny because we’d do certain shots, and you’d go in this maze of cars and rust just to get back to the certain spot that they wanted you at.  It was like being in a labyrinth or something.”  Cavo’s “Crash” video is posted online on YouTube.

Celebrating The Man In Black

The late Johnny Cash’s birthday is coming up later this month.  To honor the legendary “Man In Black,” fans are encouraged to support the “Wear Black For Johnny” campaign.  The campaign has already inspired a Twitter account and a Facebook event in which fans can post Cash photos.  Those who participate in the birthday photo salute will be eligible to win the five-disc Cash box set, “Unearthed,” as well as his new studio album, “American VI: Ain’t No Grave.”  The lucky recipient will be picked March 12th.  Fans wanting a preview of Johnny’s new music can check out the track “Ain’t No Grave,” which is posted online on Lost Highway Records’ Johnny Cash page.  Cash’s “American VI: Ain’t No Grave” will be in stores February 23rd—three days before what would have been Johnny’s 78th birthday.

Jay Reatard Died From Cocaine, Alcohol Mix

Memphis musician Jay Reatard died from a combination of cocaine and alcohol, according to autopsy results released Wednesday.  The Shelby County Medical Examiner’s office says the 29-year-old rocker had “cocaine toxicity” and that “alcohol was a contributing factor in his death.”  Reatard, whose real name was Jimmy Lee Lindsey Junior, was found dead January 13th in the bed of his Cooper-Young neighborhood home in Memphis, Tennessee.  He reached a wide audience in 2009 with the album “Watch Me Fall” and a notable performance at the South By Southwest Festival in Austin, Texas, last spring.

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Fall Out Boy Might Be Falling Apart

Fall Out Boy’s break may be a permanent one.  Bassist Pete Wentz stirred things up with a Twitter posting stating, quote, “Can’t imagine playing in FOB again.  Something would have to change in my head or my heart - not my wallet.  It’d have to be real.”  Wentz then took to his blog with a lengthier explanation.  He wrote, quote, “I don’t know the future of Fall Out Boy.  It’s embarrassing to say one thing and then have the future dictate another.  As far as I know, Fall Out Boy is on break (no one wants to say the ‘h’ word).  As much as I don’t have a solo project, I also can’t predict that I’d ever play in Fall Out Boy again.  Not due to personal relationships as much as a band we grew apart.  In this statement, I’d like to include the possibility that FOB will play again without me or I will be a part of it when everyone is on the same page.”
Wentz goes on to say that the estrangement is no one’s fault and there is no animosity within the band, but he felt the fans deserved to know.  The bassist also adds, quote, “I am the single biggest fan of FOB and if this is our legacy, then so be it.  I am proud of it.”

Fall Out Boy Drummer Uncertain About Band’s Future

After Pete Wentz’s revelations online about the current status of Fall Out Boy, drummer Andy Hurley followed with thoughts of his own.  In a thread on his Milwaukee-based record label’s message board, Hurley wrote, quote, “I really wish I could tell everyone if we were done or not, but I just don’t know.  It’s not looking great right now, but when we went into the break it was for sure that we’d come back in two or three years.  I still think we will come back, but I just don’t know.”  The drummer notes that all four members love the band, but he adds, quote, “It’s just that we’re in different places right this very instant, which is why we took the break.”
Hurley says he feels part of the reason for Wentz’s revelation was the constant questions from fans online.  He explains, quote, “The pressure of people asking stuff like they are on Twitter every five seconds is more damning to the band than anything.  The whole point of the break was to just get away and not to think about it, and in two years or so, come back and decide where to go from there.”  Hurley adds that he believes they’ll all come together at some point and hash out their differences—similar to the way Metallica worked through their issues in the film “Some Kind Of Monster”—and, quote, “we will be super stoked to do another record.  I know all of us are ready, but just not at this exact moment.”

More Fall Out Boy Fallout—Patrick Stump “Not In” Band

Fall Out Boy’s future could be in jeopardy.  Singer Patrick Stump tells Spin.com, quote, “I’m not in Fall Out Boy right now.”  But the vocalist adds, quote, “One way or another, the band will always be around.  Steven Tyler isn’t in Aerosmith anymore, but his gravestone will probably say something about Aerosmith.  Whether we play again or not, I don’t know.  If we do, it will be for the right reasons.  If we don’t, it will also be for the right reasons.”  Stump has been working on a solo album of late, recently posting that he was even playing multiple instruments on the effort.  He adds, quote, “I’m really not worried about Fall Out Boy.  I’m so psyched about where I’m at right now, recording this solo album.”  Fall Out Boy’s last new CD was 2008’s “Folie à Deux.”  Back in November the band issued the best-of collection, “Believers Never Die - Greatest Hits.”

Maroon 5, The Fray Singers Add To “We Are The World - 25”

Maroon 5’s Adam Levine and The Fray’s Isaac Slade are among the many stars lending their voices to a remake of “We Are The World.”  Producer Quincy Jones and singer-songwriter Lionel Richie, who produced and co-wrote the iconic USA For Africa track with the late Michael Jackson, are behind the current project, which will raise money for the earthquake-ravaged Haiti.  Haitian-born rapper Wyclef Jean is also featured on the track, along with a diverse roster that includes Jennifer Hudson, Heart, The Jonas Brothers, Gladys Knight, Oscar nominated actor Jeff Bridges, country duo Sugarland, Barbra Streisand, Lil Wayne, Kanye West, Snoop Dogg, and Carlos Santana.  The celebrities came together in Los Angeles on Monday to record the new version of the charity song.  The world premiere of “We Are The World - 25 For Haiti” will air during NBC’s coverage of the Opening Ceremony of the Vancouver Winter Olympics on February 12th.
Upon its release in 1985, the original “We Are The World” quickly became the fastest selling single in history.  In the years that followed, USA for Africa has raised and distributed more than 63-million-dollars in revenue from sales of the album, single and cassettes.

Phoenix Describes Surreal GRAMMY Experience

Phoenix now has their first GRAMMY Award.  After a few days to reflect on the experience, singer Thomas Mars tells Pitchfork.com that hearing they are GRAMMY winners sounds like a joke, but he’s happy to accept the honor.  He notes his favorite part of the night was sitting next to Slash.  Mars recalls, quote, “We talked a little - nothing too deep.  We were right by Alice Cooper, too.  It really felt like being on a different planet.  And then when the show started, it really felt like I was on a different planet.”  He says both Slash and Neil Young congratulated the band.
Mars also notes, quote, “It’s weird because it’s very nice, but you feel some sadness to it too.  It’s hard to enjoy the moment.  It felt like we’re already on the other side of something, so the four of us are trying to protect each other.  I don’t know if that’s a French thing.”  He adds that he’ll definitely be displaying the award, noting it’ll be nice to have something on the shelf representing his work sitting alongside all the awards his girlfriend, filmmaker Sophia Coppola, has from her career.

Garbage Singer Shares GRAMMY Thoughts

Garbage singer Shirley Manson may not be front and center on the music scene at the moment, but she is sharing her love and disappointment for those who are.  In a new Facebook posting, Manson says she’s happy for drummer Butch Vig, who won his first GRAMMY Sunday night for his work as producer on Green Day’s CD “21st Century Breakdown,” and notes, quote, “Love, love, love that the Kings Of Leon had a field day at the awards too because they are just delicious through and through.” As for big winner Beyonce, she states, quote, “When she told Jay-Z…only the hottest man in the universe…that she loved him, well it kind of made my heart pop.”  Shirley adds that Beyonce, quote, “is the only true pop star that I have ever loved.  Usually I gravitate toward the more rebellious girls as you know.  But there’s something about her that makes me believe in her.  She’s authentic and honest and true.”  Manson also shares her admiration for Lady GaGa’s sugar-spun
dress.
On the down side, Manson says she’s sad that Silversun Pickups weren’t named Best New Artist—that honor went to the country group the Zac Brown Band.  She also laments, quote, “Look how long it took for poor Neil Young to win one.”  The veteran rocker received the first-ever GRAMMY of his lengthy career for Best Art Direction on a Box or Limited Edition Package for the long-awaited boxed-set “Neil Young Archives Vol. 1 (1963-1972).”

Blink 182 Making Plans

Travis Barker says that while there are side projects going on for the members of Blink 182, they will wrap everything long enough to get to work on a Blink album in the near future.  The drummer tells MTV News, quote, “We’re about to start working on it.  I’m gonna try to wrap up my album and Tom [DeLonge] has his band, he’s wrapping up that album, and then we’ll start working on the Blink record.”  Barker says the band has a European tour scheduled for August and once they return home they expect to finish things up and have a new record out in early 2011.  The drummer adds that all is well with the band members after the reunion and he’s come off of last year’s “test run” tour as excited as ever to do another Blink 182 album.

Massive Attack’s Massive Music Output

Massive Attack’s “Heligoland” arrives next week, but that’s not the last of the new music fans will hear from the band this year.  The group will follow the release with an EP in the coming months.  Robert “3D” Del Naja revealed to BBC’s 6Music that the hope is to have the additional collection out before summer.  He explains, quote, “It will probably be made up of tracks that we didn’t put on this record and maybe some new stuff as well.”  One of the songs they are considering is called “Red Light.”  The track was done with Elbow’s Guy Garvey and didn’t make the final cut for “Heligoland.”  The song was left incomplete, and Del Naja says they would like to finish it so it could be considered for the EP.

The Dead Weather Prepping New CD

The Dead Weather is working on new music.  Jack White tells Australia’s “Triple J,” quote, “We’re finishing recording the last couple of songs and then I’m going to start mixing in the next two weeks.”  While an album title is not one of the details coming from White, he shares that a song called “Blue Blood Blues,” on which he takes lead vocals, will be the upcoming CD’s first single.  White adds, quote, “The album is bluesier and heavier than we ever thought it could be.”  White anticipates the new album from The Dead Weather will hit stores in April.

>>Spoon Creates To Please Spoon

Spoon is glad that fans can connect with their music.  But singer Britt Daniel admits that as the group goes through the creative process, they’re really only focused on satisfying themselves.
Bassist Rob Pope adds that Spoon has never really put deadlines on their work, but has always taken the time to get exactly what they want, and he feels that has helped their sound over time.  Spoon’s latest album, “Transference,” is out now.

Poe Plotting Her Return

Poe is on her way back after several years away.  The vocalist fell victim in the early part of last decade to a label squabble that left her without a deal and trying to regain control of her recordings.  But with all legal matters behind her and a renewed creative spark, the singer plans to re-emerge in 2010.  Poe says the change in the music industry in recent years makes it both exciting and scary to jump back in.
Poe, who’s perhaps best known for the 1995 hit “Angry Johnny,” notes she finds the current music support system liberating, and with more freedom she’s come up with more ideas on how to present her music.  She notes, quote, “I’ve created these sort of filmic things that go with the music, and I feel I have a very specific story to tell.”  The singer recently re-launched her website and says more information and music will be arriving in the coming months.  Poe’s next CD will be her first album since 2000’s “Haunted.”

Cavo Shares Multiple Interpretations Of “Crash”

While Cavo’s current hit “Crash” has a certain meaning for band members, the guys see it as a track that can be interpreted in a couple of different ways.  Singer Casey Walker says that while it could be about someone who can’t let go of a relationship, it could reflect a commitment.
“Crash” is on Cavo’s “Bright Nights, Dark Days” album.

MTV, VH1, CMT To Air Special Live Event On 10-10-2010

MTV, CMT and VH1 will be teaming up later this year to celebrate the past decade in music.  On Tuesday, MTV announced that all three networks will air a live musical event that celebrates the top artists of the past ten years as chosen by the fans.  The special broadcast is set to take place on October 10th.  While details about the event remain sparse, MTV is quick to point out, quote, “You know we can’t resist these numerical plays: 10-10-10!”  Information surrounding the broadcast is expected to be revealed over the coming months.

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Thirty Seconds To Mars Discusses Its “War”

Thirty Seconds To Mars is back with “This Is War,” and the album has a loosely tied concept relating to the title.  Singer Jared Leto tells Noisecreep.com, quote, “It changes from song to song.  There are songs like ‘Kings & Queens’ that have to do with the potentials and pitfalls of the American dream, and then songs like ‘This Is War,’ which is one of the most politically-charged songs I’ve ever written, but also has to do with self-belief and perseverance.  It was just a journey to get to the core of who we are as artists, to rediscover and reinvent.”  Thirty Seconds to Mars’ “This Is War” is available now.

Kings Of Leon Reflect On Significance Of GRAMMY Wins

Kings Of Leon are celebrating their big night at the GRAMMY Awards.  Backstage at the ceremony band members noted that capturing one of the event’s biggest prizes—Record Of The Year—is significant to them.
Kings Of Leon took Record of the Year—one of the event’s four all-genre “General Field” categories—with their hit “Use Somebody.”  The track also earned the group awards for Best Rock Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals and Best Rock Song.  The 52nd annual GRAMMY Awards were presented in a ceremony in Los Angeles Sunday night.

GRAMMY Acknowledgement For Phoenix, Dave Aude

Phoenix is getting some appreciation from their label.  Glassnote Records President Daniel Glass says, quote,  “We are thrilled and proud of Phoenix’s GRAMMY Award.  This is an inspiring year for Glassnote, Phoenix and all independents.  It’s gratifying that a great album and effort is recognized.”  Phoenix captured the award for Best Alternative Rock Album with “Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix.”
Meanwhile, Dave Aude, who was nominated for the Best Remixed Recording GRAMMY and attended the ceremony, says, quote, “I went to the 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards as a nominee, so in my eyes, I’ve already won.  I may not have brought home the hardware, but I got to hang out with my very talented peers, which is a lifelong dream fulfilled.  I also got to see my wife in a ridiculously beautiful dress, so it was well worth it.”  Aude was in the running for his remix of the Dean Coleman Featuring DCLA track “I Want You,” but the award went to David Guetta’s remix of his track with Kelly Rowland, “When Love Takes Over (Electro Extended Remix).”

Bono Reportedly On Board For “We Are The World” Remake

Bono is one of the names tipped for a massive new version of the benefit classic “We Are The World.”  Lionel Richie and Quincy Jones are backing the remake with proceeds going to help those in need in Haiti.  Smokey Robinson, who appeared on the first single, said at Sunday’s GRAMMY Awards that there would be no repeat performances from the original star-studded choir.
Bono sang on the 1984 Band Aid fundraiser “Do They Know It’s Christmas?,” but wasn’t featured on the USA For Africa charity track from 25 years ago.  RedOne, who garnered acclaim for his work with Lady GaGa this past year, will reportedly produce the track.  GaGa and Bono join other recently named performers including Usher, Jason Mraz, Carlos Santana, Enrique Iglesias, Toni Braxton, Trey Songz, and Jennifer Hudson who are said to be on board for the “We Are The World” remake.

Staind Singer To Be Honored By Casino

Staind’s Aaron Lewis will add another accolade to his career this week.  The vocalist, who is currently touring as a solo artist, will be inducted into the Mohegan Sun Walk Of Fame this Friday ahead of his show at the Connecticut performing space.  At the ceremony, scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Eastern, the singer will get his own plaque that will be permanently placed at the entrance to the venue.  Lewis has now played over 30 dates with both Staind and on his own at the Mohegan Sun.  Last year he sold more than eight-thousand tickets for his solo appearance.

Bad Religion Celebrating 30th Anniversary

This is a landmark year for Bad Religion.  The group intends to kick off their 30th Anniversary celebration with a March trek with multiple nights in their home state of California.  Singer Greg Graffin says, quote, “The greatest feeling about this anniversary is that it is happening at all.  I’m mostly uplifted by the fact that a vibrant and evolving punk scene still inspires young people all over the world.  If Bad Religion somehow serves as a symbol for the lasting importance of punk, then I am satisfied beyond words by reaching this milestone.”  The group will play House Of Blues venues in Anaheim on March 17th and 18th, as well as March 31st through April 2nd; in San Diego from March 19th through the 21st; and in Los Angeles on March 24th and 25th.  In addition, Bad Religion will perform in Las Vegas on March 26th and 27th.

Rancid Singer Featured In New Web Series

Rancid singer Tim Armstrong is branching out.  The vocalist is teaming with “Live Freaky! Die Freaky!” director John Roecker to produce a new web-based series called “Svengali.”  AlternativePress.com reports that the show, which features both Armstrong and Roecker in acting roles, is a detective series with Roecker portraying a drunken detective battling an evil professor, played by Armstrong.  The webisodes will also have a guest starring appearance by The Go-Go’s Jane Wiedlin.  “Svengali,” designed for a mature audience, will run through March.

Noel Gallagher To Play Solo At Benefit Concert

Former Oasis guitarist Noel Gallagher is about to resurface onstage for one of the first times since his exit from the band last summer.  Gallagher will continue his association with the Teenage Cancer Trust organization by playing two nights during the series’ annual run in March.  Depeche Mode will kick off the ten-date music event, which will take place at London’s Royal Albert Hall, performing on February 17th.  Them Crooked Vultures take the stage on March 22nd.  Gallagher is booked for two shows—March 25th and 26th.  The Arctic Monkeys and The Specials are also slated to take the stage for the benefit concert series, along with Suede, JLS, and The Who.

The Symphonic Serj Tankian

Serj Tankian is anxiously awaiting the feedback on his symphonic experiment with his “Elect The Dead” album.  The vocalist teamed with the Auckland Philharmonia Symphony last year to perform new versions of the songs from his disc and the results will be heard on the upcoming “Elect The Dead Symphony” album, due March 9th.  Tankian tells RollingStone.com, quote, “In some cases, the reinterpretation into orchestral form made way more sense than the rock versions ever did.  Some of the songs came out more alive.”  In addition to the CD, a DVD of the show will be issued as well, and select screenings will take place beginning February 19th in Portland, Oregon.
The set leaves out a few tracks like the upbeat “Unthinking Majority.”  But in their place are previously unreleased songs like “Charade” and “Gate 21,” a track that offers the first glimpse into Tankian’s next solo set.  The album, tentatively titled “Music Without Borders,” is expected later this year.

Shinedown Seeking Fresh Promotional Approach

Shinedown has been on the road for three years supporting the album “The Sound Of Madness,” and the band is hoping to do something special to finish up their promotional efforts.  Drummer Barry Kerch tells “The Pulse Of Radio,” quote, “When this record’s finally waning and it’s time to do another one, to end this we thought it’d be really nice to do a, you know, maybe a month-long acoustic tour and hit all of our major markets.”  Kerch says that while nothing is set in stone, the idea is on the table.  He also notes it’s something the group is strongly considering.  The drummer adds, quote, “We’ve just got to talk the label and management into it.”  Shinedown will be performing in Youngstown, Ohio Tuesday night.

music news

Kings Of Leon Lead Rock Winners At GRAMMY Awards

Kings Of Leon led the way for rock entering the 52nd annual GRAMMY Awards, and the group is emerging the big rock winner at the event.  The band captured the nod for Record of the Year with their hit “Use Somebody,” while the track was also named Best Rock Performance By a Duo Or Group With Vocals and Best Rock Song.  Green Day is also among the winners, taking Best Rock Album with “21st Century Breakdown.”  In accepting the nod during the CBS broadcast of the event, Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong noted there were a number of people who needed to be acknowledged.
Green Day performed during the ceremony as well.  The group shared the stage with cast members from the musical “American Idiot,” which is based on Green Day’s 2004 album.  Other hard rockers are are celebrating their first GRAMMY Awards. AC/DC captured Best Hard Rock Performance with
“War Machine,” while Judas Priest took Best Metal Performance with “Dissident Aggressor.”  Meanwhile, Phoenix has a GRAMMY for Best Alternative Rock Album with “Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix.”  The 52nd annual GRAMMY Awards were presented in a ceremony Sunday night, and aired on CBS.

Alt-Rock-related winners from the 52nd annual GRAMMY Awards follow:

Record Of The Year
Kings of Leon, “Use Somebody”

Best Rock Album:
“21st Century Breakdown,” Green Day

Best Rock Song
“Use Somebody,” Kings Of Leon

Best Rock Performance By a Duo Or Group With Vocals
“Use Somebody,” Kings Of Leon

Best Hard Rock Performance
“War Machine,” AC/DC

Best Metal Performance
“Dissident Aggressor,” Judas Priest

Best Alternative Rock Album
“Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix,” Phoenix

Kings Of Leon Reflect On GRAMMY Success

Kings Of Leon are celebrating their three GRAMMY Awards.  Band members note they weren’t an overnight sensation, and say their success Sunday shows that perseverance really can pay off.
Kings Of Leon took three of the four categories in which the group was nominated.  The band got the nod for Record Of The Year as well as Best Rock Song and Best Rock Performance By a Duo Or Group With Vocals with their hit “Use Somebody.”  The 52nd annual GRAMMY Awards were presented in ceremonies in Los Angeles on Sunday.

Red Hot Chili Peppers, Wilco Help Salute Neil Young

The Red Hot Chili Peppers have formally introduced their new guitarist.  The group joined Wilco last week to lead a star-studded lineup honoring Young as the 2010 MusiCares Person Of The Year.  The Chili Peppers, with Josh Klinghoffer playing his first gig as the primary guitarist for the band, took the stage to perform Young’s classic, “Man Needs A Maid.”  According to a Twitter posting, singer Anthony Kiedis—decked out in a green military jacket and sunglasses—did his best Young impersonation.  Wilco took the audience back to Young’s Buffalo Springfield days with a cover of “Broken Arrow.”  The 2010 MusiCares Person Of The Year took place in Los Angeles on Friday as part of the activities leading up to the 52nd annual GRAMMY Awards.
Other performers included Dave Matthews, Elvis Costello, Ben Harper, Ozomatli, Jason Mraz, Shawn Colvin, Jack Black,  Sheryl Crow, and Neko Case, along with rockers Jackson Browne, Elton John, James Taylor, John Fogerty, Booker T., and Leon Russell.  Country stars Keith Urban, Dierks Bentley, Lady Antebellum, Lucinda Williams, Patty Grffin, Emmylou Harris, and T Bone Burnett were also on hand for the tribute, along with Young’s frequent collaborators Crosby, Stills & Nash.

Blink 182 Back To Work

New music from Blink 182 might surface later this year.  Mark Hoppus says the band is trying to get things in order for a 2011 release, but he also hopes to have music out prior to that.  He tells MTV News, quote, “We did a bunch of writing before we left on this tour, then we came home and decided we were going to take a couple of months and chill and do other stuff, then get back together in the beginning of the year.  And now that it’s almost February, we decided it’s time to get back in the studio and do what we do.  So that’s the plan, just get back together and get to work.”  Hoppus says they’ve been trying, quote, “a bunch of different stuff,” explaining, quote, “I think it will still sound like Blink, I think it will still be catchy.  I think it will still be poppy, but we want to be weird on this record.”
Hoppus adds that all three members have different influences at the moment, with Tom DeLonge into monumental 80s rock, Travis Barker pulling drums and beats from all different genres, and Hoppus finding inspiration in indie rock.  While other projects may come from each of the members this year, Hoppus states that Blink is still a top priority for the trio.

Dave Matthews Band Delivers Haiti Relief EP

The Dave Matthews Band continues to raise funds for help in Haiti.  The group, who recently contributed a digital track for the “Download To Donate” online release, is now offering a full digital EP.  Proceeds are going to their Bama Works charitable foundation, and will support other relief efforts.  Songs include the “Because Of Winn Dixie”-inspired track “Butterfly,” a 2004 version of “Cry Freedom,” and three tracks from last year’s tour—“Out Of My Hands,” “Lying In The Hands Of God,” and “Dive In.”  In addition to the EP, those who order will get a limited edition t-shirt featuring the cover art, which was donated by award-winning designer Adam Larson.  The “Haiti Relief Project” EP costs five-dollars, and is available online at http://www.dmblive.com.

More Haiti Fundraisers Coming Up

Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready and Velvet Revolver’s Duff McKagan lead the talent lineup for another, Seattle-based Haiti fundraiser.  The event, taking place at Seattle’s Showbox on February 28th, will also feature Kim Virant, Kristen Ward, Justin Davis and many others.  The benefit will raise funds for Partners In Health’s “Stand With Haiti” campaign.  In March, the Never Say Never festival will donate 100-percent of their profits to American Red Cross and Unicef.  The Young Veins and Shwayze are also on the bill, along with Never Shout Never, Attack Attack, Hey Monday, The Fall Of Troy, and a host of other bands.  The Never Say Never festival is set for Las Palmas Racetrack in Mission, Texas on March 17th.

Duff McKagan Reportedly Sitting In With Jane’s Addition

Velvet Revolver’s Duff McKagan just might be helping out with the Jane’s Addiction reunion.  Jane’s fan site Xiola.org reports that McKagan is writing and recording with the group after original bassist Eric Avery bowed out for a second time.  Jane’s Addiction reunited in 2008 with Avery in tow, and while they tried writing music last year only a couple of songs surfaced as they hit the road with Nine Inch Nails.  There has been no confirmation from the band on McKagan joining the group, but singer Perry Farrell recently posted that the band is working with, quote, “a new writing partner.” 

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club Robbed

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club is the victim of a recent robbery.  Last Wednesday some of the band’s gear was stolen from a personal storage locker.  The group was particularly torn up after learning that Michael Been, singer Robert Been’s father and the group’s sound man, had his vintage equipment taken in the theft.  Some of the lost items include a 1954 yellow Fender Esquire guitar with a black pick guard, a 1968 Ampeg Scrolitop fretless bass, a 1964 black Fender Precision bass, and a 1968 Gretsch Country Gentleman Single Cutaway.  Black Rebel Motorcycle Club is welcoming any information regarding the lost gear.  The band is planning a tour late next month to begin support of their forthcoming album, “Beat The Devil’s Tattoo.”  The robbery isn’t expected to affect the performance schedule.

“Transference” Showcases A Stripped-Down Spoon

Spoon fans are no doubt noticing the absence of brass and the return of a more stripped down sound on the band’s latest effort, “Transference.”  Singer Britt Daniel says the change in style came about naturally, and they chose to embrace it.
Daniel explains that he had a number of demos which he thought stood up well and didn’t need a lot of work.  He notes that says there are some tracks on the album that haven’t changed at all from their demo status, and others that required just a little more effort, but all in all it led to a rawer sound from the band.  “Transference” is out now.

Lacuna Coil Unveils New Video

Lacuna Coil has a new video ready.  The clip for “I Won’t Tell You” is posted on the band’s website.  The song is from the group’s most recent CD, “Shallow Life.”  Singer Andrea Farro says the project was a little different for them.  He notes they remained open-minded about the material, and band members confirm they ended up with significantly more songs than they needed for the disc.
Lacuna Coil worked on the video for “I Won’t Tell You” with director Saku—the same director the band tapped for their award-winning video “Spellbound.”  The group included some of their fans in the new clip, which Ferro calls “a really valuable and funny experience.”  He also notes the band, quote, “will never be able to thank them enough” for taking part in the shoot.  Lacuna Coil produced the video to support their European tour, which the band launched last Friday in Dublin, Ireland.  It’s the group’s first headlining trek across Europe.  Lacuna Coil is performing in Manchester, England Monday night.