Newly Discovered Cover Of The Who's 'I Can't Explain' By David Bowie Released

 

Today, Parlophone Records has released “I Can’t Explain (Trident Studios Version—Take 2),” the third track to be taken from the upcoming David Bowie release Rock 'N' Roll Star!, a five CD and single Blu-ray audio set that comes out on June 14.  You can hear it here.

The box set explores David Bowie’s journey from February 1971 through the creation of Ziggy Stardust and the recording of the The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars album.

“I Can’t Explain (Trident Studios Version—Take 2)," is a cover of The Who’s classic 1965 debut single. It was produced by Bowie and recorded at Trident Studios in Soho, London, on June 24, 1972. This high-energy version of the track has remained undiscovered for over 50 years. Bowie would record the song again, at a much slower tempo, a year later with co-producer Ken Scott for his Pin-Ups album.

Other unreleased highlights on Rock 'N' Roll Star! include an unheard version of the deep-cut classic “Shadow Man” and "Lady Stardust (Alternative Version—Take 1)" performed in a much lower register than the released version. 

Rock 'N' Roll Star! features 29 unreleased tracks, including early songwriting demos, recordings from Bowie's band, The Arnold Corns, rehearsals at his then-home, Haddon Hall, BBC sessions, singles, live performances, plus outtakes and alternative versions from the album recording sessions, which have been newly mixed by original co-producer, Ken Scott. 

The audio-only Blu-ray Disc features the definitive 2012 remaster of the original Ziggy Stardust album in 96kHz/24bit PCM stereo, plus the album and additional mixes from 2003 in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 as well as the singles, outtakes and alternative versions in 96kHz/24bit PCM stereo.

Rock 'N' Roll Star! also contains two books. The first is an extensive 112-page book with detailed liner notes, memorabilia, contemporary reviews and articles, rare photographs from Barrie Wentzel, Michael Putland, Mick Rock, Sukita and Alec Byrne, as well as brand-new notes and interviews with Ken Scott, Mark Carr Pritchett and Bowie's plugger from the time, Anya Wilson. Accompanying the main book is a 36-page compiled reproduction of Bowie's personal Ziggy Stardust-era notebooks.

The Police's 'Synchronicity' Expanded Release Coming In July

 

Four decades after it first came out, The Police Synchronicity, will see a reissue in multiple formats, including a six-disc Limited Edition Deluxe box set with 55 previously unreleased tracks, new liner notes and interviews, rare archive memorabilia and unseen photographs. 

Synchronicity hit No.1 around the world, selling over 15 million globally (8.5 million sales of which were from the US alone). The No.1 hit single “Every Breath You Take” would go on to be the most played song in radio history, with more than 15 million plays.

The album won three Grammys in 1984 for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, Song of the Year (“Every Breath You Take”), and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. 

 

This reissue has been three years in the making, created with the band’s involvement and endorsement. The accompanying 62-page boxset booklet contains extensive new liner notes written by acclaimed music journalist Jason Draper, who details the conception and infamous birth of arguably The Police’s masterpiece.

Over 40 years on, all three members of the band continue to mark the legacy of The Police: Stewart Copeland published his Police Diaries and toured the world with his Police Deranged concerts. In October and November, he'll perform across the UK with his new spoken-word show Have I said Too Much?; Andy Summers has published several photography books focusing on the Police era. He is currently touring his Cracked Lens + A Missing String show across the US; and Sting continues to tour extensively: his current US and European Tour runs throughout 2024 and features many Police songs among his solo work.

Peter Frampton To Be Honored With Annual Les Paul Spirit Award

The Les Paul Foundation, whose mission is to honor and share the life, spirit and legacy of Les Paul through generations, has announced the annual Les Paul Spirit Award in partnership with Gibson Gives, the philanthropic division of Gibson. The prestigious award will be presented to Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Peter Frampton on Sunday, June 9, 2024 at 6:30pm CT at a private event held at the Gibson Garage Nashville. The event will take place on what would have been Les Paul’s 109th birthday, and marks the third anniversary of the Gibson Garage Nashville.

The annual award is presented to an individual who exemplifies the spirit of the late, great Les Paul through innovation, engineering, technology and/or music. In addition to the award, a grant from the Les Paul Foundation will be made in the honoree’s name to the charity of his choice. Like Les Paul, Peter Frampton personifies the spirit of excellence through musicianship and industry recognition. Frampton has also experimented with new technologies and music trends, apparent in his early recordings on albums Frampton and Frampton Comes Alive! and particularly his hit singles “Do You Feel Like We Do” and “Show Me the Way,” synonymous with the use of the talk box.

“I cannot think of anyone more fitting to be honored with this year’s Les Paul Spirit Award than Peter Frampton. Not only is he an extraordinary talent who has given us an amazing array of extraordinary music, but he is an innovator who understands music, technologies, and the spirit of Les Paul,” says Michael Braunstein, Executive Director of The Les Paul Foundation. “If Les were still alive today, I have absolutely no doubt that he and Peter would be experimenting together at Les’ house.  I am personally thrilled to be able to present Peter with this award because I know he exemplifies everything Les was about and wanted to accomplish. I want to also thank the Gibson Gives Foundation for partnering with us on this exciting annual award and for everything they do to keep Les’ name alive.”

Beth Heidt, Chief Marketing Officer at Gibson adds: “At Gibson Gives, we are thrilled to celebrate the incredible contributions of Les Paul and partner with the Les Paul Foundation to bring awareness to Les Paul’s legacy as he continues to inspire musicians across generations and genres.” 

Erica Krusen, Global Executive Director at Gibson Gives, also offered: “Peter Frampton personifies the spirit of excellence through his musicianship and industry recognition. Gibson Gives is proud to partner with the Les Paul Foundation to present the prestigious Les Paul Spirit Award to this legendary artist who embodies the innovative spirit of Les Paul himself and his landmark contributions to music.” 

The exclusive, physical Les Paul Spirit Award for Peter Frampton is made from actual hand-carved acoustic boards built by Les Paul that he used in his home studio. Les Paul designed and created this now historical memorabilia during his life. The acoustic wood piece is a unique presentation and supported by Les’ personal story. No two Les Paul Spirit Awards are exactly the same, given the unique nature of the studio pieces which are being used to create them and their intrinsic value as authentic Les Paul memorabilia. 

For more information, visit Gibson Gives and the official Les Paul website.

Dead & Company Adds August Dates To Sphere Residency

 

Due to increased demand following two breakout weekends, Dead & Company has announced six additional shows for their "Dead Forever - Live at Sphere" residency in Las Vegas, bringing the total number of shows to 30. 

The new dates are scheduled for Thursday, August 1; Friday, August 2; Saturday, August 3; Thursday, August 8; Friday, August 9; and Saturday, August 10. 

To ensure that tickets get directly into the hands of fans, advance presale registration is available now. The Artist Presale begins Thursday, May 30 at 10 AM PT. Advance registration does not guarantee tickets. Supplies are limited. The general on-sale will begin Friday, May 31 at 10 AM PT. For tickets, visit deadandcompany.com.

 

Vibee is the official VIP Concert & Hotel Package partner for Dead & Company’s historic residency at Sphere and is the only way to access ticket bundles for all three weekend shows. For ticket and Vibee VIP Concert and Hotel Package information, visit deadforever.vibee.com. Vibee packages include special shopping hours at the Dead Forever Experience, exclusive commemorative keepsakes including different band posters each weekend, ACES BACK TO BACK: SUMMER 2023 - the first-ever physical release of live music by Dead & Company on vinyl, and more.

Fans are encouraged to visit the Dead & Company’s Dead Forever Experience at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. This centralized hub offers a space to gather, explore immersive exhibits, and participate in interactive activities. The Dead Forever Experience also features a retail store offering a diverse selection of items, such as collector-worthy and exclusive Dead & Company merchandise, including show posters, apparel, accessories, and many other surprises. 

Additionally, Grateful Dead vinyl albums and merchandise from James Perse and Teton Gravity Research are also available for purchase. The Dead Forever Experience will be open five days a week for the duration of Dead & Company’s Sphere residency and will be open to the public at no charge.

 

Dead & Company – ‘Dead Forever – Live at Sphere’ remaining dates:

Thursday, May 30; Friday, May 31; Saturday, June 1

Thursday, June 6; Friday, June 7; Saturday, June 8

Thursday, June 13; Friday, June 14; Saturday, June 15

Thursday, June 20; Friday, June 21; Saturday, June 22

Thursday, July 4; Friday, July 5; Saturday, July 6

Thursday, July 11; Friday, July 12; Saturday, July 13

Thursday, August 1; Friday, August 2; Saturday, August 3

Thursday, August 8; Friday, August 9; Saturday, August 10

 

Alberta Cross 'Re-Imagine' Debut Album ‘The Thief And The Heartbreaker’

Anglo-Swedish band Alberta Cross has announced the upcoming release of their reworked 2007 debut The Thief and The Heartbreaker, due later this year. Each of the original seven songs and one bonus track will feature surprise guest artists, drawn from the array of stellar friends and musicians the band has known and worked with throughout their career.

Re-recorded in Frome, Somerset, at Ethan John and Dom Monks (Big Thief), Bert Jansch studio (Big Thief), the forthcoming release was self-produced by Alberta Cross vocalist Petter Stakee, and mastered at the hallowed Abbey Road Studios. 

The first single, "Lucy Rider," features the vocals of British singer and songwriter Katie Melua now available across all streaming platforms. Check it out below.

“I met Katie in my early 20s. She was one of the first champions of the band even before we got a record deal," Petter reflects. "It felt full circle to meet again after my years away living in New York City and to write together. We ended up doing some songs for her last two records. We’ve always had a creative connection so it was important to me to have her involved with this project. ‘Lucy Rider’ is a song I wrote about a beautiful girl I used to know in East London. She had so much going for her but she kept getting more and more involved with bad company and all that goes with that. It felt very dark to see at the time. It’s about how she kept pushing away all the positives she had going for her and replaced it with the bad things. Katie’s stunning voice felt perfect for this one.”

Katie Melua adds, “I met Petter and Terry from Alberta Cross in the early 2000s and have been a fan of the band for so long, I definitely played the Thief and the Heartbreaker to death during my 20s! So when Petter asked me to guest on the new version of Lucy Rider, it was a big yes.”

Alberta Cross was founded by singer and guitarist Petter Ericson Stakee and London’s Terry Wolfers in the mid-00s. Their anthemic Americana-tinged songs possess a vulnerability and earthiness and they have consistently pushed the boundaries of alternative music with their timeless sound and artistic vision. 

Originally released in 2007 as a collection of self produced demos, Alberta Cross’s debut The Thief and The Heartbreaker set the blueprint of their sound. 

“It felt so great writing those songs,” recalls Petter. “Wherever I play in the world, I still have to play them. It felt so pure, it was one of the most exciting times I’ve had as a songwriter.” 

What followed was success on both sides of the Atlantic and the relentless grind of US touring that comes with it. They embarked on high-profile jaunts with Mumford & Sons, Portugal. The Man, Neil Young, Them Crooked Vultures and Rag N’ Bone Man and performed on distinguished TV shows around the globe, appearing on The Late Show with David Letterman, Last Call with Carson Daly and more, whilst their tracks were featured on hit TV shows such as Million Little Pieces, Sons Of Anarchy and Californication. More recently, 2023 saw the release of Alberta Cross’s most recent album Sinking Ships. 

For more info, head over the Albert Cross Facebook, X and Instagram pages.

Rare Home Recordings From Badfinger's Tom Evans To Be Released

I Am Myself is a collection of never-before-heard home demo recordings by Liverpool’s Tom Evans, bassist and co-lead singer of Badfinger. It will be released as a limited-edition CD by Y&T Music and available on all streaming platforms on June 5, 2024 to celebrate what would have been Tommy’s 77th birthday.

Like his Badfinger bandmate Pete Ham, Evans was a prolific songwriter; he gave the quartet many of their greatest ‘deep cuts,’ including “Money,” “It’s Over,” “Believe Me” and “Blind Owl.” Evans and Ham co-wrote “Without You,” which went to No. 1 for both Harry Nilsson and Mariah Carey, and is considered by many to be one of the greatest pop ballads of all time.

He sang lead on “Come And Get It,” Badfinger’s smash hit debut, written and produced by Paul McCartney; his soaring tenor voice made “Maybe Tomorrow,” recorded for the Beatles’ Apple Records when they were still calling themselves The Iveys, an international sensation.

Among the 21 tracks on “I Am Myself,” two went on to be recorded by The Iveys/Badfinger: “Fisherman,” and “No Escaping Your Love.”

Performed mainly on acoustic or electric guitar, with frequent vocal and instrumental overdubs, the album’s freewheeling musicality, lyrical playfulness and clever song-construction showcase Tommy’s songwriting talents at an early period in his musical career.

I Am Myself came to be after a long review of material. While reviewing Iveys demo recordings, Tom Brennan discovered that there was more than enough material of Tom Evans’ solo recordings to put together a robust album. Before Brennan could even present the idea, mastering engineer Kevin McElligott proposed the idea of a Tom Evans solo album. 

McElligott felt strongly that the time was long overdue for the demos to have a formal release: “Such a supremely talented singer/songwriter who struck an emotional chord within so many. I felt a real strong responsibility to Marianne, Stephen and the Badfinger community to bring these songs out sounding as best they can. This is just the beginning of hopefully many more releases. It’s an honor for me to sit down and work on these tracks. I do hope everyone enjoys this release.” 

Everything just came together like it was meant to be. Badfinger historian Dan Matovina made the initial digital transfers. The recordings were then compiled & edited by Tom Brennan, and restored and mastered by Kevin McElligott.

Evan's son Stephen and wife Marianne spent time listening to these songs during the process of putting this project together, as well as contributing photos to this album. Tim Boyle gave permission to use some of his pictures for this project and was excited to hear about a new Tom Evans album, as he is an family friend and worked closely with the band as a booking agent and an assistant for many years.

Released with the full support and cooperation of the Evans Estate, I Am Myself is a limited edition of 1,000 CDs. An art print of a rare early photo of Tom Evans is included.

Earlier in 2024, Y&T Music issued Gwent Gardens, a collection of unreleased demo recordings by the late Pete Ham.

Pre-order I Am Myself. 

For more information, visit badfingerlibrary.com.

'Have You Got It Yet?' The Story Of Syd Barrett And Pink Floyd Comes to DVD, Blu-Ray & Digital

Mercury Studios have announced the DVD and Blu-ray release of the documentary film Have You Got It Yet?, a compelling dive into the life of Syd Barrett of Pink Floyd fame. The film will also be made available on digital formats, as well as On Demand. The release date is July 17. 

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Roddy Bogawa and the late album cover designer Storm Thorgerson (Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Paul McCartney, and Black Sabbath), and produced by Orian Williams (England Is Mine, Creation Stories, Control), the feature length documentary drew praise for its candid glimpse into the prismatic character and artistry of Pink Floyd founder Syd Barrett. Visionaries behind prog rock and British psychedelic music, Pink Floyd chartered a monolithic legacy in both music and cultural history. Syd, who gave the group their moniker by combining the names of two obscure blues players – Pink Anderson and Floyd Council, played a crucial role in igniting that history, then left the group before they met stardom.

Released in cinemas worldwide in Summer 2023, Have You Got It Yet? achieved a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, as well as a successful theatrical run with many sold-out screenings. Intimate interviews with band members David Gilmour, Nick Mason, and Roger Waters uncover Barrett’s ongoing impact on the group. Going a step further, the film also includes an interview with Syd’s sister, Rosemary Breen. Narrated by actor Jason Isaacs, the film also features original band managers Peter Jenner and Andrew King, as well as The Who’s Pete Townshend and Blur’s Graham Coxon.

In addition to the full-length film, the DVD and Blu-ray set includes a plethora of bonus features. Two poignant live performances of “Arnold Layne” are highlighted – this first features David Gilmour and David Bowie (originally released in David Gilmour’s Remember That Night Live At The Royal Albert Hall, 2007). The second is a performance from 2007’s The Madcap’s Last Laugh – a tribute concert for Syd Barrett featuring David Gilmour, Nick Mason, and Richard Wright in their final performance as Pink Floyd.

Additionally, the DVD and Blu-ray includes an interview with Bogawa and director & producer commentary of the film with Bogawa, Rupert Truman, and Julius Beltrame. Further exploring his creative works, the set features discussions surrounding Barrett’s paintings, and spoken word performances of Barrett’s lyrics by comedian Noel Fielding (“Dark Globe”), poet Rob Fitterman (“Rats”) and actor Gerard Bell (“Lucifer Sam”). The package, designed by StormStudios, is completed with an exclusive Have You Got It Yet? poster, which was also designed by the studio.

Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd crystallized a cultural moment where anything seemed possible but where that freedom could come with a cost. Was Syd just another drug casualty? Did he suffer from an undiagnosed mental condition? Or did he dislike the attention and fame as the fun turned to work? While there are no clear answers which might be the case, there is the feeling by all those around Syd that something went terribly wrong. Have You Got it Yet? is a chronicle and a mosaic of Barrett’s creative and destructive impulses, his captivating presence and absence - a portrait of the complex puzzle that was his life.”

Pre-order Have You Got It Yet?

Pete Townshend’s 'All The Best Cowboys Have Chinese Eyes' & 'White City (A Novel)' Released As New Limited Edition Half Speed Mastered Albums

 

The second in a series of half speed mastered studio albums from Pete Townshend, All The Best Cowboys Have Chinese Eyes and White City (A Novel) have been released. These limited-edition black vinyl versions have been mastered by long-time Who engineer Jon Astley and cut for vinyl by Miles Showell at Abbey Road Studios with a half-speed mastering technique which produces a superior vinyl cut and are packaged in original sleeves with obi strips and certificates of authenticity.

Initially released in June 1982, All The Best Cowboys Have Chinese Eyes was Pete Townshend’s third solo album and contained two singles “Uniforms (Corp d’Esprit)” as well as “Somebody Saved Me” a song The Who had recorded for their 1981 album Face Dances, The Who version didn’t appear until 1997. The track “The Sea Refuses No River” has since been singled out as one of Townshend’s most underrated songs.

Chris Thomas produced the album, featuring Simon Philips on drums and Jody Linscott on percussion, who would later perform with The Who. Promo videos were made for seven tracks from the album (“Prelude,” “Face Dances Pt 2,” “Communication” “Uniforms,” “Stardom In Acton,” “Exquisitely Bored” and an alternate version of “Slit Skirts”) by renowned photographers Davies and Starr (Chalkie Davies and his then-wife Carol Starr) and released on VHS. Townshend didn’t get to play the album live as three months after its release, The Who’s It’s Hard appeared, and the band undertook their farewell tour.

White City (A Novel) was Pete Townshend’s next studio album in the Autumn of 1985. As the title suggests, the album tells a story of cultural conflict, racial tension and youthful hopes and dreams in the White City London housing estate in the 1960s, not far from where the guitarist grew up. White City (A Novel) was again produced by Chris Thomas and features guest appearances by David Gilmour, Clem Burke, John ‘Rabbit’ Bundrick, Townshend’s daughter Emma, and a young Justine Frischmann, who would later form the Brit-Pop band Elastica.

As with his previous album, several videos were filmed but this time compiled them into a long-form video White City (The Music Movie) featuring the singles “Face the Face” and “Give Blood,” directed by Richard Lowenstein, who had worked extensively with INXS.

The Rolling Stones Announce 'Voodoo Lounge' 30th Anniversary Editions

 

To mark the 30th anniversary of the Rolling Stones' Grammy-winning 1994 album Voodoo Lounge, special editions in both physical and digital formats are being released this summer. The release includes four additional tracks which will be making their debut on streaming services.

The new editions, available from July 12, celebrate a studio set that sold more than six million copies worldwide including Stones favorites "You Got Me Rocking," "Out Of Tears," and the UK top 20 single "Love Is Strong," and went on to win a Grammy Award for Best Rock Album.

The 30th anniversary releases, which will be augmented with a merch range, are double LP red and yellow vinyl editions, and a separate double red and yellow vinyl set, which adds a white vinyl 10” disc featuring the four bonus tracks. Like the album, these were all Jagger-Richards compositions, all but one written at Windmill Lane Studios in Dublin at the end of recording sessions for Voodoo Lounge.

The quartet of songs available for the first time on streaming platforms comprises "I’m Gonna Drive," the original B-side of the "Out Of Tears" single, with a slide guitar part by Ronnie Wood; the rollicking "So Young," which had its origins in the Some Girls sessions of 1978; "Jump On Top Of Me," the B-side of "You Got Me Rocking"; and "The Storm," another flipside that evoked the Stones' unbreakable bond with Chicago blues. 

Pre order Voodoo Lounge.

Styx Announces Terry Gowan As New Bass Player

 

Styx begins its tour in the Maritimes and Quebec this evening and will play shows in Moncton (5/17), Summerside (5/18), Halifax (5/19), Laval (5/21), Trois-Rivières Rivières (5/22), Alma (5/24) and Quebec City (5/25). Juno Award winner and bilingual artist from Fredericton David Myles, heir to Johnny Cash, JJ Cale and Buddy Holly, will open for all shows.

Starting June 11, Styx will join up with Foreigner and special guest John Waite for the “Renegades & Juke Box Heroes” co-headlining trek produced by Live Nation. Tickets are available on StyxWorld.com and LiveNation.com.

The seven band members are committed to thrilling audiences around the world as they begin their second decade with an average of more than 100 shows per year. Styx consists of James “JY” Young, Tommy Shaw, Lawrence Gowan, Chuck Panozzo, Todd Sucherman, Will Evankovich and, picking up the baton from Ricky Phillips, taking over on bass is Terry Gowan.

Terry Gowan says, “It is within an honor and somewhere beyond a dream come true to be joining JY, Tommy, Chuck, Will, and my brother Lawrence – and to be reacquainted with decade long Gowan bandmate Todd -- in taking on the mantle as the new bassist of the legendary Styx. Here’s to many years ahead on the Styx adventure!”

"I’m very pleased and proud to have my brother, Terry, join Styx,” says Lawrence Gowan. “Terry played on four of my six solo Gowan albums. He’s on records that include some of the world’s most renowned musicians: Tony Levin, Jerry Marotta, Jon Anderson, and Alex Lifeson, as well as touring with Gowan from 1985 to 1990 and again 2010 to this year of 2024. It’s really great to have him aboard!”

As Tommy Shaw exclaims, “We’re all looking forward to the Canadian shows that are coming up soon and introducing Terry Gowan on bass guitar and vocals as the newest Styx member!!! Are you ready to rock? We are too! See you soon!”

Drummer Todd Sucherman adds, “I’ve had the pleasure of being a rhythm section partner with Terry Gowan for several years in Gowan’s band, and I look forward to welcoming this talented multi-instrumentalist into the fold.”

Check out STYX at any of the following stops: 

Headlining:

5/17  Casino New Brunswick – The Centre - Moncton, MB.              

5/18  Consolidated Credit Union Place - Summerside, PE.          

5/19  Scotiabank Centre - Halifax, NS.                   

5/21 Place Bell - Laval, QC.                     

5/22   Amphitheatre Cogeco - Trois-Rivieres, QC.        

5/24  Centre Multisports - Alma, QC.                     

5/25   Agora - Quebec City, QC.          

“Renegades & Juke Box Heroes” with Foreigner and John Waite:

6/11 Van Andel Arena - Grand Rapids, MI   

6/12 Blossom Music Center - Cuyahoga Falls, OH

6/14 Budweiser Stage - Toronto, ONT.

6/15 Pine Knob Music Theatre - Clarkston, MI 

6/18 Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre – STL Maryland Heights, MO 

6/19 Walmart AMP - Rogers, AR                            

6/21 Dos Equis Pavilion - Dallas, TX    

6/22 Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion - Woodlands, TX

6/25 Ball Arena - Denver, CO                           

6/26 USANA Amphitheatre - West Valley City, UT                         

6/28 Honda Center - Anaheim, CA                                               

6/29 Toyota Pavilion at Concord - Concord, CA                            

6/30 Hayden Homes Amphitheater - Bend, OR                            

7/12 Ascend Amphitheater - Nashville, TN                                  

7/13 PNC Music Pavilion - Charlotte, NC                                     

7/15 Credit One Stadium - Charleston, SC                                  

7/17 Ameris Bank Amphitheatre - Alpharetta, GA                          

7/19 iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre - West Palm Beach, FL         

7/20 MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre - Tampa, FL                     

7/23 PNC Bank Arts Center - Holmdel, NJ                                     

7/24 Jiffy Lube Live - Bristow, VA                                                   

7/26 Ruoff Music Center - Noblesville, IN                                        

7/28 Freedom Mortgage Pavilion - Camden, NJ                              

7/30 Broadview Stage at SPAC - Saratoga Springs, NY                  

7/31 The Pavilion at Star Lake - Burgettstown, PA                           

8/2 Xfinity Center - Mansfield, MA                                                  

8/3 Maine Savings Amphitheater - Bangor, ME                          

8/4 BankNH Pavilion - Gilford, NH                                                  

8/16 The Wharf Amphitheater - Orange Beach, AL                       

8/17 Orion Amphitheater - Huntsville, AL                                        

8/20 Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater - Virginia Beach, VA         

8/21 Coastal Credit Union Music Park - Raleigh, NC                   

8/23 Riverbend Music Center - Cincinnati, OH                               

8/24 Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre - Tinley Park, IL                           

8/26 CHI Health Center Omaha - Omaha, NE                                 

8/28 Denny Sanford PREMIER Center - Sioux Falls, SD                  

David Bowie's 'The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars' Remixed In Atmos

 

Parlophone Records is proud to announce the first-ever Dolby Atmos spatial audio version of David Bowie’s The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars. The new mix of the album will be available on Blu-Ray audio and streaming services on September 6. 

The Blu-Ray audio disc of The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars features four iterations of this timeless album: 2024 Dolby Atmos mix, 2024 Stereo Mix (96 kHz / 24-bit PCM), original 1972 Stereo Mix — 2012 remaster (192 kHz / 24-bit PCM), original 1972 Stereo Mix – 2012 remaster (48 kHz / 24-bit PCM). The Atmos version of the album was mixed by Emre Ramazanoglu and Ken Scott at RAK Studios, London. 

Of this new Dolby Atmos mix, the album’s co-producer, Ken Scott, says, “You’re in there with the act, with David. He was so theatrical I think being able to put him into an immersive place makes this a really good choice for an Atmos mix. My whole philosophy with this has been to make it more like a live experience. And I’ve even got him moving about the stage a little towards the end, the way he would have in real life. Hopefully, it just feels as if you’re in the theatre with this amazing show going on.”

June 14 sees the release of Bowie's Rock ‘N’ Roll Star!, a five CD and single Blu-Ray audio set chronicling Bowie’s journey through the creation of the Ziggy Stardust character and the recording of the iconic The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars album. Rock ‘N’ Roll Star! contains 29 unreleased tracks, covers early songwriting demos, recordings from Bowie’s band, The Arnold Corns, rehearsals at Bowie’s then-home, Haddon Hall, BBC sessions, singles, live performances, plus outtakes and alternative versions from the original album recording sessions, which have been newly mixed by original album co-producer, Ken Scott.

The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars is the breakthrough album that catapulted Bowie into the international spotlight. Over the past 50 years, it has remained a touchstone record, growing in stature with each passing year. It is now ingrained in popular culture, its undeniable influence spanning musicians from Arcade Fire to Lady Gaga, to Harry Styles’s androgynous fashion sense to Noel Fielding’s shirts on “The Great British Bake-Off” to Ziggy make-up challenges on Tik-Tok. Bowie laid to rest the Ziggy Stardust persona in July 1973 at his infamous last show with the Spiders From Mars at London’s Hammersmith Odeon, but Ziggy’s impact reverberates to this day.

Yes Issuing 'Fragile' Box Set

Yes's fourth album, Fragile, first reached the American Top 10 in February 1972. Reaching platinum in the U.K. and double platinum in the U.S., the record launched the group to new heights with hits like "Roundabout" and its beloved B-side, "Long Distance Runaround."

This summer, Rhino is releasing an extensive reissue of Fragile featuring a newly remastered version of the original album on both CD and vinyl, plus rare and unreleased recordings. A Blu-ray disc completes the collection with Steven Wilson's new mixes, including the album in Dolby Atmos and 5.1 Mix DTS-HD MA.

Fragile (Super Deluxe Edition), available on June 28, includes four CDs, one LP, and a Blu-ray disc. Renowned audio engineer Bernie Grundman cut lacquers for the set's LP.  The music will also be available on digital and streaming platforms on the same day. 

Ahead of the album's release, an alternate version of "Long Distance Runaround/The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus)" is out digitally today. Check it out below.

Fragile marked keyboardist Rick Wakeman's debut with Yes, which included Jon Anderson (lead vocals), Chris Squire (bass, vocals), Bill Bruford (drums), and Steve Howe (guitar). After he joined in the summer of 1971, the band recorded nine songs for the album, four group arrangements ("Roundabout"), and five individual compositions, including Anderson's "We Have Heaven" and Howe's instrumental "Mood For A Day."

Fragile (Super Deluxe Edition) introduces a new remix of the album and instrumental mixes by Wilson. In addition, two discs of rarities provide a glimpse of the album's creative journey, from early versions of "Roundabout" and "South Side Of The Sky" to unreleased live recordings from the Fragile Tour, including "Long Distance Runaround / The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus)."

Fragile holds a special place in Yes' history as the first album to feature artwork by English artist Roger Dean, whose style is now synonymous with the band. Music journalist Syd Schwartz describes the deep connection between the two. "Few marriages of sound and vision are as perfectly suited as Yes and Roger Dean – it was like they grabbed the same shooting star simultaneously. The iconic Yes logo was still an album away, but Fragile established a cosmic vibe forever associated with Yes..."

Pre-order Fragile.

Catch Yes co-headlining this summer with Deep Purple performing around the US and Canada. See a full list of dates below.

Tour Dates

Aug 14 Hollywood, FL Hardrock Live 

Aug 15 Tampa, FL Hardrock Live 

Aug 17 Houston, TX Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion 

Aug 19 FT. Worth, TX Dickies Arena 

Aug 21 Cincinnati, OH PNC 

Aug 22 Detroit, MI Michigan Lottery Amp. 

Aug 23 Chicago, IL Credit Union Amp.

Aug 25 Toronto, ON Budweiser 

Aug 27 Montreal, QC Bell Centre

Aug 28 Gilford, NH Bank NH 

Aug 30 Camden, NJ Freedom Mortgage 

Aug 31 Holmdel, NJ PNC Arts 

Sept 1 Wantagh, NY Jones Beach 

Sept 3 Bridgeport, CT Hartford Healthcare

Sept 4 Saratoga Springs, NY Broadview

Sept 6 Bethel Woods, NY Bethel Woods 

Sept 7 Bristow, VA Jiffy Lube 

Sept 8 Scranton, PA Montage

John Lennon's 1973 Album 'Mind Games' Expanded With Ultimate Collection Suite of Releases

 

Anchored by the buoyant peace-and-love anthem, Mind Games, John Lennon’s fourth album of the same name, was surprisingly written and recorded during an incredibly tumultuous time in the rock legend’s life. In 1973, at age 33, the singer found himself in personal and political upheaval. A years-long deportation battle with U.S. immigration continued to rage on while his high-profile anti-Nixon campaigning, anti-Vietnam war activism, as well as the overtly political messages on his polarizing 1972 album, Sometime in New York City, made him a target of a newly elected Richard Nixon, leading to surveillance by the FBI.

This was the dramatic backdrop as Lennon entered NYC’s Record Plant in August ’73 with a select band of world-class session musicians (jokingly named The Plastic U.F.Ono Band), including their friend drummer Jim Keltner who along with guitarist David Spinozza assembled pianist Ken Ascher, bassist Gordon Edwards, pedal-steel player “Sneaky” Pete Kleinow, saxophonist Michael Brecker, drummer Rick Marotta, backing vocalists Jocelyn Brown, Christine Wiltshire, Angel Coakely and Kathy Mull, and, to make his fourth post-Beatles solo album in just three years. John would channel this period of extraordinary activity to make a deeply personal and engrossing album of self-reflection that explored themes of love, heartbreak, peace, spirituality and social injustice, giving us yet another window into his life and soul, and some of his best solo songs, on Mind Games.

On July 12, The John Lennon Estate and Capitol/UMe will celebrate John Lennon’s pivotal and intensely personal 1973 album, Mind Games, with a suite of completely newly remixed and expanded Ultimate Collection editions, offering an immersive, deep listening experience and in-depth exploration of this classic, yet underappreciated record. 

Fully authorized by Yoko Ono Lennon and produced by Sean Ono Lennon, who oversaw the production and creative direction, the Ultimate Collection is from the same audio team that worked on the critically acclaimed Imagine and John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band Ultimate Collections, including triple GRAMMY-Award winning engineer Paul Hicks, and mixers/engineers Sam Gannon and Rob Stevens. The definitive Ultimate Collection puts listeners in the center of the studio and explores the album’s 1973 recording sessions at the Record Plant in New York City, from inception to the final master, through scores of unreleased outtakes, unadulterated versions, instrumentals, stripped down mixes, studio chatter and more, revealing how these fan favorite songs evolved and came to life. 

Yoko Ono Lennon says: “John was trying to convey the message that we all play mind games. But if we can play mind games, why not make a positive future with it – to be a positive mind game? ‘Mind Games’ is such an incredibly strong song. At the time, people didn't quite get the message because this was before its time. Now, people would understand it. I don't think in those days people knew they were playing mind games anyway.”

Mind Games – The Ultimate Collection offers six different unique listening experiences that are at once immersive and intimate, ranging from the brand new Ultimate Mixes of the timeless album, which put Lennon’s vocals front and center and sonically upgrade the sound, to the Elements Mixes, which isolate and bring forth certain instruments from the multitrack recordings to highlight playing previously buried in the original mix, and the Raw Studio Mixes, which allows listeners to hear the recording that John and The Plastic U.F.Ono Band laid to tape, mixed raw and live without vocals effects, tape delays or reverbs.

The Evolutionary Documentary is a unique track-by-track audio montage that details the evolution of each song from demo to master recording via demos, rehearsals, out-takes, multitrack exploration, and studio conversations. The Out-Takes allow listeners to hear compelling different takes of each song while the Elemental Mixes, a new set created especially for the Mind Games – Ultimate Collection, inhabit a world between the minimalism of the Elements Mixes and the Ultimate Mixes, stripping the songs back to simpler, lean-back arrangements with John’s voice to the fore, and without drums. An array of listening options, including High-Definition, studio quality 192kHz/24bit audio in stereo and enveloping 5.1 Surround and Dolby Atmos mixes, are available on Blu-ray.

All of the tracks have been completely remixed from scratch from the 15 original two-inch multitrack session tapes using brand new 192-24 digital transfers. The Ultimate Collection includes previously unreleased out-takes and stems plus additional never-heard-before audio from archive ¼” reel-to-reels, cassettes, and videotapes. 

Mind Games – The Ultimate Collection releases will be available in a variety of formats, ranging from digital and 2CD and 2LP versions to a Deluxe box set featuring six CDs and two Blu-ray discs. The pièce de résistance is a Super Deluxe Edition, a Limited Edition of only 1100 copies worldwide. 

Last month, a limited edition four-track Mind Games vinyl EP was released exclusively for Record Store Day as a teaser of the Ultimate Collection. Offered in two color variants – a luminous glow-in-the-dark 140g color vinyl and a 180g black vinyl audiophile version, the EP includes three songs from the set, along with “I’m The Greatest” (Ultimate Mix), a song written by John for Ringo Starr, which appeared on his 1973 album, Ringo. This previously unreleased version features Lennon on vocals, George Harrison on guitar and Starr on drums. 

Pre-order Mind Games

Many Renowned Musicians Object To Release Of 'New' Recordings By Late Small Faces & Humble Pie Singer Steve Marriott

The debate over AI-generated vocals continued this week with an exclusive Variety feature article by executive music editor Jem Aswad reporting on a still-growing list of celebrated musicians uniting with Mollie Marriott, daughter of the late Steve Marriott, in objection to plans by the Marriott Estate to release “new” recordings from the legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame singer created with AI-powered technology. 

A wide range of Marriott’s close friends and fellow artists have joined together in opposition to the project, including Marriott’s former bandmates Small Faces’ Kenney Jones and Humble Pie’s Peter Frampton and Jerry Shirley, along with Robert Plant, David Gilmour, Paul Weller, Paul Rodgers, Joe Brown, Bryan Adams, Matt Sorum, Glenn Hughes, Gary Kemp, Bob Harris, and others.

As reported by Variety, Los Angeles-based independent label Cleopatra Records has engaged in discussions with the Marriott estate about completing some of his unfinished demos with the aid of AI technology, though the label ultimately plans to release the recordings in their original form “for now” via three as-yet-unscheduled compilations.  

Chris France, who has been managing director of Marriott’s estate since 1997, admits that while “there are no confirmed plans to use Steve Marriott’s voice on AI recordings, that does not mean a deal will not be done with one of several suitors who have made offers…I am afraid that [Mollie Marriott’s] opinions are of no consequence to me or his estate.”

Humble Pie founding member, drummer Jerry Shirley, confirmed an attempt by Cleopatra to create a version of the “Georgia on My Mind” with AI-generated vocals “by” Marriott which he could then compare the result with his memories of Marriott’s own informal renditions of the song. The AI recording was “horrible,” Shirley told Variety. “It sounded like someone trying to sound like someone trying to sound like Steve Marriott.”

“The Marriott Estate is due to release an AI solo album of old and new songs of my father, Steve,” said Mollie Marriott in a previously released official statement. “Sadly, the surviving family which comprises just my siblings Lesley, Toby, Tonya, and I, have nothing to do with the Estate as there was no will. It is run by my stepmother who was only with my father for two years prior to his death and has since been re-married.

“We, along with his bandmates of Humble Pie and Small Faces are looking to stop this album from happening as it would be a stain on my father’s name. Someone who was known as one of the greatest vocalists of our generation, with such a live and raw vocal, it would absolutely break his heart if he were alive to know this. This is only for money, not art nor appreciation.

“It is the start of a campaign I wish to lead against this sort of thing, where deceased artists have no rights and that everything natural in this world is truly dying, including creativity and the arts, as AI comes into play. It’s a sad world to behold.”

Steve Marriott, who passed away in 1991 at the age of 44, was among the most gifted and iconic artists in the long-storied history of British music. In a career that spanned two decades, the singer-songwriter-guitarist co-founded two of the most acclaimed and influential bands of the 1960s and 1970s, Small Faces (with whom he was posthumously inducted in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame) and Humble Pie. Small Faces proved as influential as any band of their extraordinary era, bridging R&B, pop, soul, psychedelia, and the primal power of what soon became known as punk rock. The band’s distinctly English sound and vision later provided a blueprint for the Britpop movement of the 1990s. Upon Small Faces’ dissolution, Marriott co-founded Humble Pie and once again left his mark on rock ‘n’ roll with a new kind of hard rock built upon riff-driven no-frills boogie and simple raw power.

Marriott was already a star by the time he co-founded Small Faces, first as a child actor performing on London’s West End as The Artful Dodger in Oliver! and then as 16-year-old leader of the popular R&B group, The Moments. Marriott came together with drummer Kenney Jones and the late bassist-songwriter Ronnie Lane as Small Faces in 1965, joined the following year by keyboardist Ian MacLagan. The band immediately ascended to the forefront of the Mod scene with their high-energy sound, fronted by Marriott’s unmistakable soul-influenced vocals. Over their short but blazing lifespan, Small Faces scored eight UK Top 10 singles, including “Whatcha Gonna Do About It” (later covered by the Sex Pistols), “Here Comes The Nice,” “Itchycoo Park,” “Lazy Sunday,” “Tin Soldier,” and the #1 hit, “All or Nothing.” Their final album, 1968’s classic Ogdens’ Nut Gone Flake, spent six weeks atop the album chart and to this day stands tall as a British psychedelic rock landmark for its singular collage of rousing lysergic R&B, folk eccentricity, and pop-art imagination.

Marriott departed Small Faces in 1969 and teamed with guitarist Peter Frampton, bassist Greg Ridley, and drummer Jerry Shirley as Humble Pie. Considered one of the first supergroups for each member’s previous involvement in other popular bands, Humble Pie instantly proved a momentous outfit, their crushing blend of hard rock, boogie, and blues providing an early example of what came to be known as heavy metal. Marriott led Humble Pie through UK and US success in a range of incarnations, encompassing a further range of influences – from country to soul – but all were hailed for their charged live performances and of course, Marriott’s irrepressible vocals and songcraft at the forefront. A variety of reunions, collaborations, and solo efforts followed Humble Pie’s initial success. Marriott carried on through the 1980s, lighting up live stages in the UK and the US with over 200 gigs each year before his death in a fire at his Essex home on April 20, 1991.

David Gilmour Announces U.S. Live Shows in Los Angeles and New York

 

David Gilmour has announced his first live shows in eight years in Los Angeles, CA and New York, NY, in support of his new album Luck and Strange, to be released on September 6 on Sony Music.

The shows in New York and Los Angeles will be Gilmour’s only concert appearances in North America and will take place at The Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, CA, on October 29 and 30, and at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY, on November 4 and 5.

Fans will need to sign up at davidgilmour.com to get first access to tickets on Wednesday, May 15 at 10:00 AM local time. The general on sale for all shows will take place on Friday, May 17 at 10:00 AM local time.

The touring band includes: David Gilmour, guitar and vocals; Guy Pratt, bass and background vocals; Greg Phillinganes, keyboards; Rob Gentry, Keyboards; Adam Betts, drums; Ben Worsley, guitar; Louise Marshall, background vocals; Hattie Webb and Charlie Webb, background vocals.

Luck and Strange was recorded over five months in Brighton and London and is Gilmour’s first album of new material in nine years. The record was produced by David and Charlie Andrew, best known for his work with alt-J and Marika Hackman.

The majority of the album’s lyrics have been composed by Polly Samson, Gilmour’s co-writer and collaborator for the past 30 years. Samson says of the lyrical themes covered on Luck and Strange, “It’s written from the point of view of being older; mortality is the constant.” Gilmour elaborates, “We spent a load of time during and after lockdown talking about and thinking about those kind of things.”

The album features eight new tracks along with a beautiful reworking of The Montgolfier Brothers’ "Between Two Points" and has artwork and photography by the renowned artist Anton Corbijn.

Musicians contributing to the record include Guy Pratt and Tom Herbert on bass, Adam Betts, Steve Gadd and Steve DiStanislao on drums, Rob Gentry and Roger Eno on keyboards with string and choral arrangements by Will Gardner. The title track also features the late Pink Floyd keyboard player Richard Wright, recorded in 2007 at a jam in a barn at David’s house.

Some contributions emerged from the live streams that Gilmour and family performed to a global audience during the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021; Romany Gilmour sings, plays the harp and appears on lead vocals on "Between Two Points." Gabriel Gilmour also sings backing vocals.

For information about David Gilmour or the Luck and Strange US tour, please visit davidgilmour.com.

UFO Reissue Rare 1988 EP With Vintage Live Bonus Tracks

UFO's rare 1988 EP, Ain't Misbehavin', is making a triumphant return in a Deluxe Bonus Track Edition reissue, promising a treasure trove of sonic delights for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Recorded in the wake of the band's electrifying 1987 tour in support of their '85 album Misdemeanor, this EP marked the final collaboration between UFO frontman Phil Mogg and guitarist Atomik Tommy M.

Much like its predecessor, Ain't Misbehavin' goes full throttle from beginning to end with Mogg matching his vocal prowess to the pyrotechnic playing of guitarist Tommy alongside superstar bassist Paul Gray (The Damned) and former Magnum drummer Jim Simpson. The brilliant lead off track, “Between A Rock And A Hard Place,” ranks up there with some of the band’s best rockers. Check out this special digital single release of the track below!

This deluxe reissue not only reintroduces the original EP in all its glory but also treats fans to a selection of bonus tracks, including vintage live performances and other rarities that showcase UFO's dynamic live energy and musical evolution. The artwork has been revamped with an even sexier front cover image, and the whole thing is being released on all formats this June 14. Pre order your copy today!

The Dead Daisies Release New Single And Video 'Light ‘Em Up'

The Dead Daisies have released their first single “Light ‘Em Up” from their upcoming album. The song sets the tone for their upcoming album of the same name and their 2024 World Tour which will take them across the US, UK and Europe.

Recorded in Nashville with Producer Marti Frederiksen, “Light ‘Em Up” is the band’s first new single since 2022 and the first with singer John Corabi since 2018.

“Hey Gang, we are releasing our first single 'Light ‘Em Up', from our new record, aptly titled Light ‘Em Up as well!" Corabi says. "It’s a kick-ass, straight ahead rock and roll tune, just how we like it!!! Turn it up, and get ready to bang your head and break shit!!! Hope ya like it!!! Love you guys!!”

Check out the "Light 'Em Up" video below.

The band’s US leg of their upcoming Light ‘Em Up World Tour is an exclusive run of dates kicking off with New York City’s Killcode and Tempt for A Mega Night Of Rock on June 6th at Racket NYC. The tour will hit some of the band’s favorite cities and venues from coast to coast with 80’s power-pop legends Enuff Z’Nuff in St. Charles, and a special Father’s Day show with Ace Frehley band alums Rock City Machine Co. in Nashville. Special Guests including Gilby Clarke of Guns N’ Roses fame in San Diego, and young electric upstarts Red Voodoo in Roseville will wrap up the US Tour dates.

“Our 2024 Tour has been locked and we’re gonna have some great nights of kickass rock!!!!" says guitarist Doug Aldrich. "Can’t wait to play the new songs for you guys!  See ya there.” 

The Dead Daisies spent the early part of 2024 in both Nashville & Muscle Shoals with Frederiksen writing and recording songs for their forthcoming 7th studio album. The album, Light ‘Em Up will be released in early September through Spitfire Music Pty Ltd/SPV.

TOUR DATES:

06/06/24 - Racket NYC - New York, NY

06/08/24 - The Landis - Vineland, NJ

06/09/24 - Mickey's Black Box - Lititz, PA

06/11/24 - The Machine Shop Concert Lounge - Flint, MI                 

06/12/24 - The Arcada Theatre - St. Charles, IL       

06/15/24 - Blue Note Harrison - Harrison, OH          

06/16/24 - The Basement East - Nashville, TN          

06/19/24 - House Of Blues - San Diego, CA        

06/20/24 - Whisky a Go Go - Los Angeles, CA     

06/22/24 - Goldfield Trading Post. - Roseville, CA   

Dave Mason Reveals Untold Stories in New Memoir 'Only You Know And I Know'

 

Dave Mason, a Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famer as a member of Traffic and a renowned singer-songwriter in his own right, is set to release his memoir, titled Only You Know And I Know. This book marks the first time a member of Traffic has penned a memoir, offering fans a rare glimpse into the life and career of one of music's unsung legends. The book is set for release on September 10, 2024 and available for pre-order at Amazon.

 

In Only You Know And I Know, Mason shares captivating tales from his remarkable rock 'n' roll journey, recounting the many extraordinary situations he found himself in throughout his illustrious career. From recording sessions with legendary acts such as the Rolling Stones on "Street Fighting Man" and Paul McCartney on "Listen to What the Man Said," to his time spent in Fleetwood Mac and beyond, Mason's memoir is a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes stories and insights.

 

Filled with never-before-seen photographs, Only You Know And I Know promises to be a riveting rock ‘n’ roll adventure that delves into the highs and lows of Mason's multifaceted career. Readers will discover the untold stories of his relationships with iconic bands like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, as well as his solo successes that have solidified his place in music history.

"I am thrilled to finally share my journey in Only You Know And I Know, offering fans a firsthand account of the incredible experiences and relationships that have shaped my life in music," said Mason. "This memoir is a testament to the power of rock 'n' roll and the enduring impact it has had on my career and personal life."

 

Only You Know And I Know, written with prolific writer (and frequent VintageRock.com contributor) Chris Epting, offers a unique perspective on one of rock's most fascinating and influential figures. Mason's memoir is set to captivate readers with its candid storytelling, vivid anecdotes, and unparalleled insight into the world of rock 'n' roll.

 

Dave Mason continues his Traffic Jam tour, beginning May 22nd in Kent, OH and continuing through the fall. Select dates with The Beach Boys and with Jefferson Starship where noted.

Summer 2024 Traffic Jam Tour Dates

5.22.24 - The Kent Stage - Kent, OH

5.24.24 - Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater - Bridgeport, CT*

5.25.24 - Broadview Stage at SPAC - Saratoga Springs, NY*

5.26.24 - Bank NH Pavilion - Gilford, NH*

5.28.24 - Patchogue Theatre - Patchogue, NY

5.29.24 - Lynn Memorial Auditorium - Lynn, MA

5.31.24 - The Fillmore Silver Spring - Washington, DC

6.1.24 - PNC Bank Arts Center - Holmdel, NJ*

6.4.24 - Rams Head On Stage - Annapolis MD

6.6.24 - Newton Theater - Newton, NJ

6.7.24 - Penn's Peak - Jim Thorpe, PA

7.10.24 - Ledge Amphitheater - Waite Park, MN*

7.11.24 - Capitol Credit Union Park - Green Bay, WI*

7.12.24 - McGrath Amp - Cedar Rapids, IA*

7.16.24 - Ozark Amphitheater - Camdenton, MO*

7.18.24 - Cain's Ballroom - Tulsa, OK

7.19.24 - Stiefel Theatre - Salina, KS

7.20.24 - The Uptown Theater - Kansas City, MO

7.24.24 - Ludlow Garage - Cincinnati, OH

7.25.24 - Ludlow Garage - Cincinnati, OH

7.26.24 - Renfro Valley - Mount Vernon, KY

7.31.24 - The Beacon Theater - Hopewell, VA

8.2.24 - Peace Center - Greenville, SC^

8.3.24 - Frederick Brown Jr Amphitheater - Peachtree City, GA^

8.6.24 - Riviera Theatre - North Tonawanda, NY

8.8.24 - Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater - Wantagh, NY*

8.9.24 - Scottish Rite - Collingswood, NJ       

8.12.24 - Stephen's Talkhouse - Amagansett, NY

8.14.24 - The Center for The Arts in Natick - Natick, MA         

9.14.24 - Longhorn Ballroom - Dallas, TX

9.15.24 - The Heights - Houston, TX

9.17.24 - Aztec Theatre - San Antonio, TX

9.24.24 - Lobero Theatre - Santa Barbara, CA

9.26.24 - The Canyon - Montclair, CA

9.27.24 - Coach House - San Juan Capistrano, CA

9.28.24 - The Libbey Bowl - Ojai, CA   

10.3.24 - Humphreys Concerts - San Diego, CA

10.11.24 - The Center for the Performing Arts - Grass Valley, CA

10.12.24 - Harrah's Lake Tahoe - Stateline, NV

 

*with The Beach Boys

^with Jefferson Starship

For more info, visit davemasonmusic.com.

Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks Announce New Album

 

After a highly successful 2023 tour with The Band Geeks, Jon Anderson decided to expand the creative partnership with the band to create new material for a potential new studio album. The result of this effort is TRUE, which will be released on August 23 by Frontiers Music. 

The nine-song album will be a welcome gift to all fans of the singer's 40 years as a member of the multi platinum Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Yes. The album’s collection of songs harkens back to Yes’s classic 70s sounds as well as to their latter day success with the album 90125. The album’s release will be preceded by two singles and videos, the first arriving mid June for the song “Shine On.” The album was co-produced, engineered, and mixed by Band Geek bassist and musical director Richie Castellano.

Anderson and The Band Geeks embark on their summer 2024 tour starting May 30th in New Brunswick, NJ.  The tour will encompass three legs and will run through September. Additional September dates will be announced in the upcoming weeks.

See below for the current tour dates:

5/30/2024 - Thursday - New Brunswick, NJ - State Theatre

6/1/2024 - Saturday - Englewood, NJ - Bergen PAC

6/3/2024 - Monday - Rochester, NY - Kodak Center Theatre

6/6/2024 - Thursday - Albany, NY - Hart Theatre

6/8/2024 - Saturday - Hammondsport, NY - Point of The Bluff Concert Pavilion

6/13/2024 - Thursday - Chicago, IL - Copernicus

6/15/2024 - Saturday - St. Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheater

6/18/2024 - Tuesday - Greensburg, PA - Palace Theater

6/20/2024 - Thursday - Hershey, PA - Hershey Theatre

6/22/2024 - Saturday - Concord, NH - Capitol Center for the Arts

6/25/2024 - Tuesday - Boston, MA - Shubert Theatre

6/27/2024 - Thursday - Ridgefield, CT - Ridgefield Playhouse

7/21/2024 - Sunday - Patchogue, NY - Great South Bay Music Festival

7/24/2024 - Wednesday - Nashville, TN - Ryman Auditorium*

7/27/2024 - Saturday - Peachtree City, GA - Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheatre

7/30/2024 - Tuesday - Camdenton, MO - Ozarks Amphitheater*

8/2/2024 - Friday - Bonner Springs, KS - Azura Amphitheater*

8/4/2024 - Sunday - La Vista, NE - The Astro Outdoors*

8/7/2024 - Wednesday - Waite Park, MN - The Ledge Amphitheater*

8/10/2024 - Saturday - Denver, CO - Paramount

8/14/2024 - Wednesday - Phoenix, AZ - Celebrity Theatre

8/16/2024 - Friday - Thousand Oaks, CA - Thousand Oaks Performing Arts Center

9/13/2024 Friday Glenside PA Keswick Theatre

9/15/2024 Sunday Glenside PA Keswick Theatre

*w/Special Guests The Return of Emerson, Lake & Palmer

For more information, visit JonAnderson.com.

Jesse Colin Young Reissues 1982 Album 'The Perfect Stranger' Digitally

Jesse Colin Young has released a digital re-release of his 1982 solo album, The Perfect Stranger. The album features collaborations that tie together Young’s smooth vocals, lyricism, and musical arrangements. 

Young also re-released two of the album's singles, “Fire on the Water” and “Fight For It.” The former is penned with Michael McDonald of Steely Dan and The Doobie Brothers. Reflecting on their collaboration, McDonald said, “I had the privilege of working with Jesse Colin Young in the 80s. I have great admiration for Jesse as an artist, singer, and songwriter, and followed his body of work with the Youngbloods and as a solo artist. Needless to say, I'm an avid fan. I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunity to work with Jesse.” 

"Fight For It" features a duet with Carly Simon 

Regarding the process of creating the album, Young says: “Writing and recording The Perfect Stranger in 1980 was a thrill-a-minute for me, having never done any co-writing with amazing songwriters or recorded with LA’s finest studio musicians…Writing songs with Michael McDonald, Wendy Waldman and Danny O’Keefe was a dream come true and took me to musical places I had never been…It just doesn’t get any better.”

For more info on the album, visit jessecolinyoung.com.

Black Country Communion Issues New Single 'Enlighten' from Upcoming Album 'V'

Black Country Communion, featuring the talents of Glenn Hughes, Joe Bonamassa, Jason Bonham, and Derek Sherinian, has just released "Enlighten," the latest single from their upcoming fifth studio album, V, set for release on June 14th. 

Now available on all major streaming platforms, "Enlighten" is a triumph of lyrical depth and musical innovation, penned by Hughes and Bonamassa. The production, helmed by long-time collaborator Kevin Shirley, captures the essence of the band's dynamic sound and evolving artistic expression.

"Enlighten" explores themes of self-awareness and spiritual awakening, conveyed through Hughes' emotive lyrics and the intricate guitar work of Bonamassa. Resonating with the band's signature fusion of hard rock and soul-stirring blues, the song stands as a testament to Black Country Communion's growth and mutual admiration, symbolizing their commitment to producing music that is authentic, heartfelt, and reflective of their shared experiences and vast musical expertise. Check out the song below.

Black Country Communion has earned a formidable reputation over the past 15 years, not only as phenomenal songwriters but as a compelling live act, renowned for their commitment to musical excellence and innovation. Released on the heels of their first U.S. concert in over 11 years, "Enlighten" serves as an exciting glimpse into the full spectrum of what the album promises, heralding a vibrant new chapter for the band and their fans globally.

For my info, visit blackcountrycommunion.com.

Anticipation For Dead & Company’s 'Dead Forever: Live at Sphere' Residency Grows With New Interactive Attraction

Debuting on May 15 at the Venetian Resort in Las Vegas, Dead & Company’s “Dead Forever Experience” is a centralized hub for fans that will feature interactive activities, art exhibits, exclusive merchandise and much much more. 

The Dead Forever Experience will be open five days a week for the duration of Dead & Company’s Dead Forever: Live at Sphere residency and will be open to the public at no charge.

​Visitors can explore more than 22,000 square feet of interactive exhibit space across two floors, which will be located at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. 

Some of the highlights of the “Dead Forever Experience” will include:  

- A 1:4 scale functioning recreation of the infamous Wall of Sound:  The massive and revolutionary sound system with stacked speakers was originally designed by audio engineer Owsley Stanley specifically for the Grateful Dead’s concerts in 1974.  This 500-speaker, 7,000-watt multichannel wall was built by Anthony Coscia of “Le Petit Mur De Son.” 

- Participation Row: The continuing partnership between Dead & Company, HeadCount, and REVERB where fans have gathered to take action for people and the planet since 2015. Fans can visit the Participation Row Pop-Up to get involved with causes important to the band, support nonprofit groups, collect a free VOTE pin, bid on charity auctions, and reflect on the incredible positive impact that Dead & Company fans have made over the years.   

- Art at the Edge of Magic:  Mickey Hart’s new immersive art exhibition showcasing his groundbreaking vibrational expressionism. This exhibit will be the first of its kind, showcasing dozens of sensory-enhancing pieces touching on all of Hart’s art forms and mediums, including a breathtaking blacklight immersion. 

- SiriusXM Grateful Dead Channel Zone: Pre-show broadcasts hosted by Gary Lambert, David Gans, and Big Steve Parish will air throughout opening weekend starting Thursday, May 16, and will continue every Thursday through the residency with the Big Steve Hour.  

- An American Beauty: Grateful Dead Photography 1965-1995:  A photography exhibit curated by Jay Blakesberg and his daughter Ricki will feature 145 images by 27 different photographers, including many rare and unseen photographs.  The exhibition is capped off with a section devoted to the continuation of “The Long Strip Trip,” featuring Dead & Company images taken by Jay Blakesberg and Chloe Weir. 

- The Cinema, an exclusive Vibee VIP experience, will feature Dead & Company’s epic performance from Cornell University’s Barton Hall.  The historic benefit concert for nearly 5,000 fans took place on May 8, 2023, the same date and venue as the Grateful Dead’s highly acclaimed performance at Cornell in 1977.  

In addition to the immersive exhibits and interactive activities, the "Dead Forever Experience" will include a retail store where fans will have the opportunity to explore a diverse selection of items. The store will offer collector-worthy and exclusive Dead & Company merchandise, including show posters, apparel, and accessories. The store will also feature Grateful Dead vinyl and merchandise from James Perse, Teton Gravity Research, and more.  Fans can enjoy an atmospheric bar and lounge offering specialty cocktails and other beverages for sale and discover many additional surprises throughout the experience.

For more info, visit deadforeverexperience.com.

Dead Forever: Live at Sphere opens May 15. With Dead & Company's new Sphere stage and lighting designs final, the band is releasing limited production hold tickets for the engagement. Tickets are available at deadandcompany.com. 

Vibee is the official VIP Concert & Hotel Package partner for Dead & Company’s residency at Sphere and is the only way to access ticket bundles for all three weekend shows. For ticket and Vibee VIP Concert and Hotel Package information, please visit deadforever.vibee.com.

One lucky fan and their guest can experience three electrifying Dead & Company shows during the Dead Forever residency. Not only will flights be provided, but you will stay at the Venetian Resort Las Vegas.

The winner will be treated to great tickets for all three shows, with official Vibee VIP perks including priority entry into Sphere, special access to the band’s immersive fan portal, and exclusive commemorative keepsakes.

Access to The Sphere Experience, an immersive two-part experience featuring interactive Atrium exhibits and Darren Aronofsky's Postcard from Earth, is also included.

To enter for a chance to win, fans must donate $10 or more in support of HeadCount and REVERB in making a change through the power of music. 

Richie Kotzen Releases New Single 'Cheap Shots'

 

Fresh from a 95-date world tour and album release with The Winery Dogs in 2023, Richie Kotzen returns with a brand new single and lyric video called “Cheap Shots” released today (May 1st). A gloriously powerful slice of guitar-driven and hard-riffin’ heavy rock, with Kotzen’s passionate vocals calling out haters and people who take advantage of others, it pulls no punches and delivers knockout hooks throughout.

“I really never know how, when or where inspiration will strike for a song idea,” explains Kotzen. “I never try to force anything because I know ultimately at some point in time life will hand you a situation and for a guy like myself that is the perfect spark. I’m not someone that likes to outwardly go at it with someone if I feel I was wronged but I certainly use my creative outlet as a song writer to exercise that stuff out of me so I never find myself carrying around resentment or bad vibes. 

“So if someone does you wrong, multiple times, then we’re done here. You’re your own worst enemy. I’ve tried to help and now I’m a target? Nope… No thanks… I’m off the bus. My attitude is ‘Get it out! Throw it in the trash where it belongs.’ Move on and forget ‘em! That is really where the song is coming from.”

Check out “Cheap Shots” below.

The single, which will be a part of a full-length album to be released later in the year, came together very quickly in March 2024 after a trip back to Kotzen’s hometown of Reading, Pennsylvania.

“It has been quite a while since I have released new solo music and I feel very fulfilled to have come to a place where I’ve got new music I believe in,” continues Kotzen. “Although I find myself writing all the time not always do I feel compelled to share the work. When the story for ‘Cheap Shots’ came to me I knew I had the perfect lead track to follow up where I left off from my previous record.

“Of course I’m thrilled to be able to say I’ve got a new song for you but I’m equally overjoyed to announce the upcoming live dates. In fact, the timing is perfect as we embark on an extensive European tour in June which will end in the UK on July 13th at London’s Islington Assembly Hall. And these dates will most likely spill into a North American Fall tour as well.”

Ahead of Richie Kotzen’s European tour he plays two warm up shows in Southern California in mid-May. Full tour dates are below. Tickets and VIP package links at richiekotzen.com.

USA

5/17 - The Canyon Montclair, Montclair, CA

5/18 - The Canyon Agoura Hills, Agoura Hills, CA

EUROPE

6/4 - Batschkapp, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany

6/5 - Colos-Saal, Aschaffenburg, Germany

6/6 - Rosenhof GmbH, Osnabrück, Germany

6/8 - Sweden Rock Festival 2024, Sölvesborg, Sweden

6/9 - Pumpehuset, København, Denmark

6/11 - Victory Podium, Alkmaar, Netherlands

6/12 - Turbinenhalle Oberhausen, Oberhausen, Germany

6/13 - Metropool, Hengelo, Netherlands

6/14 - Le Forum, Vaureal, France

6/16 - Sala Riviera, Madrid, Spain (SOLD OUT)

6/17 - La Salamandra, Barcelona, Spain

6/20 - Rock Imperium Festival 2024, Cartagena, Spain

6/22 - Crossroad, Angoulins, France

6/24 - Garage, Saarbrucken, Germany

6/25 - Große Freiheit, Hamburg, Germany

6/26 - F-Haus, Jena, Germany

6/28 - Backstage Halle, Munich, Germany

6/29 - Amphiteatre, Sokolov, Czechia

6/30 - Charita Olomouc, Olomouc 9, Czechia

7/1 - Collosseum Club, Košice I, Slovakia

7/4 - Dürer Kert, Budapest, Hungary

7/5 - Majestic Music Club, Bratislava I, Slovakia

7/6 - Metal Park 2024, Romano D'ezzelino, Italy

7/7 - Dynamo, Zürich, Switzerland

7/10 - Limelight, Belfast, United Kingdom

7/11 - Opium Live, Dublin 8, Ireland

7/13 - Islington Assembly Hall, London, United Kingdom