The Cult
Born Into This

Band-Line Up: Ian Astbury, Vocals; Billy Duffy,Guitar; Chris Wyse, Bass; John Tempesta, Drums
Stand Out Tracks: I Assassin, Dirty Little Rockstar, Tiger in the Sun, Savages
 
The songwriting team of Astbury/Duffy returns with 10 new songs that represent a cross section of styles and sounds that are unique to the band. Astbury with his distinctive low octave drawl that drips with sensual overtones complementing the high pitched guitar riffs of Duffy makes for an ear-teasing good time. I love songs that open with a cool ass bassline and "Dirty Little Rock Star" is no exception, courtesy of Chris Wyse. This track along with "I Assassin," quake with the bombastic energy that attracted the Cult's fan base during the late 80's. Tempesta's impressive drumming drives "I Assassin" and "Savages" home with a force and impact that seems lacking on some of the other songs on the record.

"Tiger In the Sun" and "Sound of Destruction" have elements of the 1994 self-titled "Cult" record while "Savages" and "Illuminated" are more reminisent of the Sonic Temple and Ceremony era.
Holy Mountain, an earthy ballad, ventures into slightly uncharted territory with a very slow, lounge-act type of vibe to it, straying far from the feel of the rest of the CD.

I will say that you have to listen to this record a few times before it starts to grow on you. Other than "I Assassin," not too many other tracks grabbed my attention on the first spin.

It's always challenging to build on such past successes as "Electric" or "Sonic Temple" and as much as it pains me to admit it, the past few Cult releases are no match for those two momumental records, however, their style and persona will get them by once again.
 
Rating out of 10: 6
Review by Tracey L

 

Joe Granata
A Long Way to Hell

Bringing metal out to the forefront of the Rhode Island music scene is Joe Granata. His self financed debut CD “A Long Way to Hell” was released earlier this year on Castlerock Associates and has made its way to the staff here at GlamMetal. Not only is Joe a very talented musician who wrote all the songs, but he also co-produced and played all the bass and guitar parts as well. Aaron Martin of Hypersolid provides the skin bashing for Joe’s debut CD. The precise and well driven “Glorified” is the first track and showcases Joe’s amazing talent on the guitar. “Death Machine Ride” gets the blood pumping and is a total balls out and mosh pit type of song. Joe’s main forte is the guitar but the bass and vocals do not lack as much as I would have thought when giving this a listen. Even though Joe may still be coming into his own vocally, the guitar work here is where his bread and butter is at! His influences cite Kirk Hammett, Zakk Wylde, and the late great Dimebag Darrell. You can definitely tell as these artists are very much heard all over the 6 track CD. Joe takes a slower tempo for “Back to Life” and even though this track is not as heavy as the others, this may be the best song on the CD! I have to admit that for a debut CD that was self-financed, the packaging looks fantastic! He is even on the ballot for the 2008 Grammy awards under 4 different categories. I think somewhere down the line you will be hearing a lot more of the multi-talented Joe Granata!!

Track Listing:
Glorified
Dying Invain
Death Machine Ride
Back to Life
As the River Flows
Supersonic Shred

Rating 7 out of 10
Review by Gus Griesinger

For more information on Joe Granata, go to www.joegranata.com 

Heart
DreamBoat Annie - Live

A new series of live performances will be issued by Shout! Factory called Legendary Albums Live. The focus behind this is to get a band to perform and record an entire album live from start to finish. The first edition in this installment is the classic “Dreamboat Annie” album from the band Heart that was originally released in 1976. The performance was shot at the Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles on April 17, 2007. Yours truly was one of the lucky individuals who was able to witness this amazing event. The entire album was performed in it’s entirety as close to the original recording as you can get with some bonus songs thrown in at the end of the show as well. With the help of the Stockhom Strings, a percussionist, and a couple of background singers, Heart’s performance was incredible to say the least! The band still consists of Ann and Nancy Wilson and now with Ben Smith (drummer), Craig Bartock (guitar), Debbie Shair (keyboards), and Ric Markmann (bass). The DVD starts off with commentary from Ann and Nancy with some old pictures from the mid 1970’s showing where their creative minds were during the recording process of “Dreamboat Annie.” This intertwines between commentary and rehearsal footage preparing for this show. Ann and Nancy also talk about how the band got started back in Vancouver and the trials and tribulations they had to go through to get noticed as a serious rock band. Along with commentary from the Wilson sisters is the shows director Ivan Dudynsky who adds great depth of how the idea for the recording all came together. 

The two gems on the DVD/CD were the songs “Soul of the Sea” and Sing Child.” Nancy dusted off the 12 string for “Soul of the Sea” and was spot on note for note. Ann Wilson’s vocals were amazing for all of the songs but especially on the tune “Sing Child.” Besides the “Dreamboat Annie album, Heart also performed “Mistral Wind,” “Goodbye Blue Sky,” “Black Dog,” “Misty Mountain Hop,” and Love, Reign O’er Me.” There is some bonus footage of Heart fans who were interviewed after the show on their recounts of what the album meant to them. In addition to that, is a bunch of old pictures from the bands career for the die-hards to salivate on! The CD/DVD was produced by Conor McNally, Bob Emmer, and Shawn Amos and will be released on CD and DVD on October 23, 2007 through Shout! Factory. 

It cannot be stressed enough how amazing Ann Wilson’s vocals are after all of these years. The Wilson sisters have a fantastic band, and this DVD showed how well they can play and perform together. I’ve seen Heart for over 20 years and I personally have never seen them sound as good as they do now. It was a highlight for me to witness it live but no worries as the magic was captured and recorded well enough for you to enjoy it at home as well!!

Heart is currently on tour and information on the band can viewed here: www.heart-muisc.com Also, expect a new CD of material and another tour from the band in 2008!


Rating out of 10 : 10
By Gus Griesinger

Kid Rock
Rock N Roll Jesus

Stand-out Tracks: Sugar, So Hott, Roll On, Don't Tell Me U Love Me

If one word could sum up Kid Rock its tenatious. Not one to hold back with sexually charged, self-promoting, yet thought provoking lyrics, it's Big Bad Bobby.

With the first release "So Hott" now playing in heavy rotation in strip clubs across America, and another hip gyrating track off "Rock N Roll" Jesus entitled "Sugar" which will surely follow in it's footsteps, it seems the Kid has not lost his cocksure swagger and smartass delivery of tongue and cheek radio ready diddys (with the f-bombs carefully edited out, of course). It also appears he may have used this record as a cathartic effort to edit out a pair of double D-bombs as well, referring to those attached to Pamela Anderson's chest, as many of the songs appear to be directed right between those two tah-tahs. Most apparent on "Half Your Age" which is essentially a rub-your-noise in it snub as the early mornin' stoned pimp boasts he's found a new chick who folds his clothes and is 2 times hotter. Pair (pun intended) that with the title of the song, um, it ain't too hard to figure out.

While we are on the topic of Hollywood starlets, "Don't Tell Me U Love Me" is another salute to the Kid's self-indulgent male prowess that references notches on the Kid's belt, and though no names are mentioned, again, it wouldn't take an Einstien to figure out the group of chicks who inspried this one.
"When You Love Someone" and "Blue Jeans and A Rosary" are poignant reminders that Kid, for as crass as he can be, can also can flip the switch and deliver a heartfelt ballad or two (or three). The beginning chords of "Amen" sound distinctly like Bob Seger's "You'll Accompany Me," if Kid did this as a nod to one of his mentors, then I'll let him slide, but otherwise I'm calling you out Cowboy! The song is a slightly political and patriotic mix of socially conscious statements from a man who found it acceptable and well within his right to drape himself in the American Flag in an early MTV video.

he Kid has always been forthcoming with his musical influences, with the spectrum running from his first love...rap, to metal, rock, blues and country. This offering, like previous ones, has sprinklings of all of these genres. Old school fans will aprreciate "Sugar," "So Hott" "Rock N Roll Jesus" and "Don't Tell Me U Love Me" with their suggestive rap lyrics and hard rock groove. Fans of "Only God Knows Why" and the later duet with Sheryl Crow will appreciate the slow-paced southern acoustic stylings that grace the remainder of the record.
I've been a Kid Rock Fan since I first heard to Ba Wit Da Ba. I've experienced his powerful and entertaining live performances. However, other than the few stand-out tracks listed, I can picture the majority of these songs being performed in a whiskey stained roadhouse bar, not an arena. Like I said, I love Kid Rock and it may be true that he's the only "cool hand luke left in this town," but unfortunately he's gotten a bit too country encrusted for my taste.

Rating out of 10: 7
Review by Tracey L
www.kidrock.com
Buy the CD Here

Heroin Diaries-The Book
By Nikki Sixx

The Heroin Diaries" is one of the most brutality honest books about addiction, as Motley Crue bass man Nikki Sixx take you on a riveting journey and paints a dark, fascinating story of a year in the life of a rock star living on the edge dealing with his addiction and the struggle to fight for his life. Sit back and enjoy the ride, as Motley Crue bass man Nikki Sixx unveils "The Heroin Diaries"
 
 During the 80's, no band lived larger than Motley Crue. As Nikki Sixx states in "Heroin Diaries", "I am going to do exactly what I want to and fuck everybody else". There is no doubt about it. Nikki Sixx lived life his way, out of control, trying desperately to stay alive.
 
 As the "Heroin Diaries" story begins. Nikki comments "I guess I've decided to start another diary today.
 
L. I have no friends left.
2.So I can read back and remember what I did the day before.
3.So If I die, at least I leave a paper trail of my life (nice lil suicide note)
Merry Christmas...It's just you and me, diary, Welcome to my life." 
 
"Heroin Diaries" describes the pain inflicted with the disease of addiction. Like any other disease, there is no cure. Every day is a battle, as you will see when you read one of the most vividly honest accounts of a rock star out of control, living his life in Hollywood where everything seems so surreal, and fragile like a time bomb just waiting to explode.
 
"Heroin Diaries" unveils the memoirs of a year in the life of one rocks most notorious bad boys, Nikki Sixx that transpired from December 1986 -1987. It takes you through the highs and lows of addiction, including the loneliness, anger, and self-destruction that addicts face every day of their lives.
 
One of the most interesting aspects of the book is Nikki Sixx has a huge cast of characters including Vince Neil, Tommy Lee, his drug dealer Jason, his family, and ex- lovers including Vanity giving special commentary about their friend Nikki Sixx. Their stories about Nikki make this book ever so extremely honest and real. It s so heartbreaking how his band mates, family and friends try to help him with his addiction, but in the end only Nikki Sixx can save himself from the demons that torment him everyday in his life.
 
As the Motley Crue bass man takes you on the most chaotic ride of a lifetime, Nikki Sixx experiences high, and lows, loses everything, and almost loses the most important thing his life.
 
It seems that everyone once in his or her lifetime wants to be a rock star. "Heroin Diaries" does not glamorize the lifestyle of a rock star in the least bit. In fact, be careful what you wish for, because life on the other side of the road is not always what you think it will turn out to be.
 
I had the opportunity to discuss with Nikki Sixx his reason for writing "Heroin Diaries', and what inspired him to score a soundtrack with his new project Sixx A.M., Nikki told me,” My hope is it both paints a picture of not just the addiction, but how we can get there and the recovery part too. The whole picture is important. If someone is struggling, or has someone in their life that is. We are all blown away. Too be honest, we had no expectations, except to make a very adventurous album. I had so many people comment on how life changing they feel the lyrics on the soundtrack to "Heroin Diaries" and book is. One person told me, they were on the verge of suicide until they heard the song. That is why we make music right there, in a nutshell." 
 
One of the most moving parts of the book is when Nikki talks about his drug dealer Jason and their love/hate relationship. Nikki writes how Jason would be there in a heartbeat with everything he wanted. It really is truly heartbreaking how dealers can be so cruel, as they get you hooked and have no conscience and in retrospect they are indeed killing you. It is hard to call Nikki a victim in "Heroin Diaries", but after reading the book, I truly believe Nikki is a victim of what society has taught us to believe about the rich and famous. Nikki falls victim to the pitfalls of fame and fortune. He has the power to have anything he wants in life, as his lifestyle as a rock star clearly accelerates the power of never having to say no, as he lives life to the extreme and almost at times seems like he wants to die, but in the end then discovers "Life Is Beautiful' and begins to live. 
 
Vince Neil probably summed up the whole rock star persona in "Heroin Diaries. Vince states,” You know the problem with Nikki Sixx? He can't do anything just a bit." It seems so prevalent lately that Hollywood stars and rock stars are spinning out of control more and more everyday because they can. Nikki Sixx and Motley Crue never played by the rules; they made their own rules, because they can. No one ever said no to him or her. "Heroin Diaries" is the perfect rock example of this behavior.
 
 
One of the most moving parts of the book is when Nikki discusses "The Closet". This is the place where Nikki took refuge to hide from his demons, while he was in a drug infused state. He felt safe there, all alone, no one watching, only him and his drug paranoid delusions.
 
The art book of "Heroin Diaries" is very well done as artist Paul Brown drew a picture of the Sicci Nikki out of control. I discussed the artwork concept with Nikki, as he told me,” It was important working with Paul Brown, (who did the art for the book) to have the video look, smell, and feel like the book. This is a body of work and it's important to us that the theme stays the same throughout. Paul is to me one of the future's brightest stars and darkest souls. He's amazing. As you will see, from the whole concept." 
 
As I mentioned above,” Heroin Diaries" unveils a cast of characters including Nikki's ex-girlfriend Vanity. He openly discusses their drug infused relationship. It seems many women passed through his life, that really never lasted to long, the stereotype Hollywood fling. Another moving moment was Nikki talking about his family and their commentary. Nikki's sister discussed her time with him in their childhood. I love the story how Nikki once saved her from a rattlesnake. Family plays a huge role in developing, which you are in life. It seemed that Nikki's family life was not so stable, and one can't help but wonder, if this was the reason for his adventure with drugs. The family commentary is most moving, as it all ties everything together.
 
Without giving the end of the book away, Nikki does manage to turn his life around. His new project Sixx A.M. has scored a soundtrack to the book. Nikki told me, "The album takes you on a journey, musically, lyrically, and it does go left. But very far to the left, and very far to the right. For us, it was complete freedom to do that because we had no expectations. We never expected to be on radio. The fact that it is and doing so well at radio is just is icing on the cake. It is fantastic not to follow a standard, as songwriters and producers."
 
"Heroin Diaries" is a must read for anyone who ever lived in the 80's, loved Motley Crue, and ever inspires to become a rock star.
 
As previously reported, Nikki Sixx will be embarking on a book signing tour beginning September 18. Be sure to pick up a copy of "Heroin Diaries" CD and Book right here at the store and also purchase the soundtrack of one of the most brutality honest CD's and books ever to hit the shelves on addiction. Powerful and poignant, "Heroin Diaries" excels "The Dirt' with it's venomous tale of a rock star and his quest to stay alive.
www.nikkisixx.net                   Click here to buy this book !!!
Review by Deb Rao

Ann Wilson
Hope & Glory

It’s been a long time coming, but legendary vocalist Ann Wilson will be releasing her first solo effort on Zoe/Rounder Records on September 11th. The release was produced by Ben Mink. Considering the state of affairs that we are presently dealing with as a society, the songs Ann has picked to cover have much to do with what is going on regarding that. She elected to collaborate with an array of unique artists on this project, some of whom are iconic in their own right; Elton John, Alison Krauss, and of course what would be any type of release by a Wilson sister without the other one at least making some sort of contribution (Nancy helped on three tracks).
 
The first song “Goodbye Blue Sky,” which Nancy lends a hand on, has been covered by Heart occasionally in concert. This is a great track with amazing harmonies. You expect nothing less when the Wilson sisters get together as they always sound fantastic! It’s great to see Ann team up with one of her idols, Elton John, on his song “Where to Now St. Peter.”

All of the songs have a different kind of feel to them and express a variety of moods. A very cool version of Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” echoes these sentiments. This track is distinctively different from the original version but works very well here. This song is getting airplay and deservedly so! Maybe my favorite track, with a country twist, is the collaboration with country star Gretchen Wilson on Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Bad Moon Rising.” I love the piano and fiddle that are worked into the song. Allison Krauss does a fantastic job on Neil Young’s “War of Man.” Ann has one original tune on the CD called “Little Problems, Little Lies.” According to Ann, this song was penned through the eyes of a soldier on the front lines, and sums up the collection of songs Ann picked for this release.
For all of those hard rockers out there, you should take a chance on this CD. It’s more laid back, but don’t forget, it’s by a singer who has one of the best voices in rock, period! That should be enough of a reason to grab this release.

I’m not going to list the stand out tracks so instead I decided to list all of the tracks with the artist Ann collaborated with.


Track Listing:

Goodbye Blue Sky – with Nancy Wilson (Pink Floyd)
Where to Now St. Peter – with Elton John (Elton John)
Jackson – with K.D. Lang (Lucinda Williams)
We Gotta Get Out of This Place – with Wynonna (The Animals)
Immigrant Song (Led Zeppelin)
Darkness Darkness – with Nancy Wilson (The Youngbloods)
Bad Moon Rising – with Gretchen Wilson (Creedence Clearwater Revival)
War of Man – with Allison Krauss (Neil Young)
Get Together – with Nancy Wilson, Deana Carter, & Wynonna (The Youngbloods)
Isolation – (John Lennon)
A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall – with Rufus Wainwright & Shawn Colvin (Bob Dylan)
Little Problems, Little Lies


Rating out of 10: 9
Reviewed by Gus Griesinger
Buy This Cd Here

Queensryche
SIGN OF THE TIMES
The Best of Queensryche

This 17 track, greatest hits collection proves that the Seattle based Queensryche was and still remains a vital and innovative band. From their 1983, five song self-titled debut ep to their 2006 metal opus Operation: Mindcrime II, Queensryche never compromised there musical integrity. They’re the heavy metal version of Pink Floyd and vocalist Geoff Tate is without a doubt one of the most gifted singers in rock.

This compilation includes a good selection of some of Queensryche most memorable songs, although the track “Empire” wasn’t included and it absolutely should have been. This collection is a must have for any rock fan. And an extended two disc version is also available with rare live recordings and more.

Track #/title/CD
1. Queen Of The Reich (from the EP Queensrÿche)
5. The Lady Wore Black (from the EP Queensrÿche)

2. Warning (from the album The Warning)
4. Take Hold Of The Flame (from the album The Warning)

3. Walk In The Shadows (from the album Rage For Order)

6. I Don’t Believe In Love (from the album Operation: Mindcrime)
7. Eyes Of A Stranger (from the album Operation: Mindcrime)

8. Silent Lucidity (from the album Empire)
10. Jet City Woman (from the album Empire)
11. Another Rainy Night (Without You) (from the album Empire)

9. Bridge (from the album Promised Land)
13. I Am I (from the album Promised Land)

12. Sign Of The Times (from the album Hear In The Now Frontier)
15. Some People Fly (from the album Hear In The Now Frontier)

14. Real World (from the Last Action Hero soundtrack album)

16. Until There Was You (bonus track from the reissued Q2K)

17. All The Promises (from the album) Operation: Mindcrime II

This CD can be purchased here
for more www.queensryche.com 

The Erotics
‘30 Seconds Over You’

During the last five years, I’ve given the Erotics every accolade imaginable. This underground, critically acclaimed band from Albany, NY has always rocked my world. But, this time around the Erotics just bring it to a new level of brilliance. Their new CD is a bold and abrasive 14 track sleaze rock tour de force, permeated with snotty lyrics, slamming guitars and a BIG Fuck You attitude.

Band leader Mike Trash has perfected his ability to write the perfect fist pumping glam/punk anthem. With the addition of new guitarist Rachel Toxic, the Erotics are again a quartet, and a much more focused and ferocious Rock n’ Roll Killing Machine.

The highlights of this 14 track 47:56 minutes CD are…. well, how about every fucking raucous moment. 

The CD starts off with a short flamenco flavored acoustic guitar run that Trash somehow makes sound sleazy. It’s just the calm before the storm.

The finely crafted hard hitting “Your Mommy is a Monster” follows with a big ass hook and catchy gang bang chorus. The title track, “30 Seconds Over You” has a classic Kiss meets vintage Alice Cooper sound. “Don’t Make Me Hate You” has a retro, stoner rock edge with a ‘Paranoid’ style riff that would make any pothead raise their bong in approval.

Guitar stars Trash and Toxic give us some ultra cool double lead ala Thin Lizzy on "Where the Action Never Stops" and "Sunshine." They also trade off Ace Frehley type leads on "Among The Nasty," "Ain't Your Fix” and “Teenage Drag Queen.”

The infectious “Baby Rock Out” could be the best song that Trash has ever penned. It may also be the most finely crafted sleaze rock anthem ever. It’s the type of track that Johnny Thunders should have written.

Now that The Erotics have a label behind them, Overit records and major distribution through Ryco/Warner this band may finally reap their just rewards.

Rating out of 10: 9.5
Review by Thomas S. Orwat, Jr.
www.myspace.com/theerotics

ZO2
“Ain’t It Beautiful”

Stand out tracks: “If You See Kay”, “Comin’ Home”, “Hopelessly Gone”

Brooklyn based ZO2 just released their sophomore CD through Riker Hill on August 7, 2007. This three-piece band consists of brothers Paulie Z. (guitar and vocals), David Z. (bass and vocals), and Joey Cassata (drums and vocals). You may recognize this band as they were the opening band on Kiss’ 2004 “Rock the Nation Tour” along with Poison. They did quite well, in fact, of the 5 shows I went to, the crowd was totally into them and I think they earned their stripes for sure! The third track, “If You See Kay,” is a kick-ass, no frills rock tune. It has great screaming vocals along with a tight back rhythm section. This is one of my favorites on the CD.
 
The band members take turns on lead vocals for the song “Comin’ Home” which is a slow melodic groove that allows the tempo to pick up before the chorus. It has female background vocals that add to the chorus at the end of the song. The band really put together some amazing arrangements on this tune.
 
The song “I Don’t Mind” is a perfect song aimed at the religious freaks out there who may judge you when they are not being judged themselves. “I don’t mind if you can see the light, don’t save me I know I’ll be alright.” These are words to live by for sure. I also love the track “Hopelessly Gone” as I think the dueling vocals between Paulie Z. and David Z. work extremely well here.
Maybe the hardest track on the CD could be the final cut “On the Verge of War.” This band does tour but mainly on the east coast. This CD is a great rock record that people need to here. It may slip by as one of the superior, yet unnoticed CD releases of 2007 but with lots of touring and promotion, hopefully Z02 won’t let that happen! Buy the CD here!!!

Rating out of 10: 8.5
Review by Gus Griesinger
www.zo2.com

SIXX. A.M.
Heroin Diaries soundtrack
 
Stand out tracks: Life is Beautiful and Girl With The Golden Eyes
 
During the 80's, no band lived life larger than Motley Crue. Get ready to fasten your seatbelt, as one of the most anticipated releases of the year, the soundtrack to Nikki Sixx's "Heroin Diaries" is slated to be released on August 21st. This new project for Sixx also features guitarist DJ Ashba, and vocalist James Michael. Heroin Diaries- The Life Of A Shattered Rock Star book is slated for a September 18th release in the U.S. and Canada.
 
I have listened to Motley Crue for many years and I must begin this review by saying that the 13-song soundtrack of "Heroin Diaries" soundtrack resembles nothing like the band that launched Sixx into stardom. "Heroin Diaries" is a fresh, new bold approach to an artists reflection of his addictions and demons scored to a soundtrack with passionate vocals, melodic, yet punk infused guitar solos, and riveting rhythms that take you through a journey of the artists, raw, real emotions. "Heroin Diaries", the book also features special commentary from Nikki's past including ex-girlfriend Vanity, his Mother, Sister, and Grandfather. Each person gives a detailed account of what the bass player was living through. But in the end, only Nikki Sixx can help himself relive his past, and bring inner peace to his demons.
 
Nikki Sixx begins his journey on Christmas, December 25th, 1986. "The Heroin Diaries" soundtrack commences with "Xmas In Hell" and Nikki speaking over a beautiful acoustic guitar stating,” Merry Christmas, Well that is what people say at Christmas right? Except normally they have someone to say it to. They have their friends and family all around them. I didn't speak to a single person today, why should I ruin their fuckin Christmas. Very powerful monologue, indeed.
 
Track 2, "Van Nuys" begins Nikki's life through a musical adventure. The song starts off with piano, and James Michael singing, "Everybody Get High, Everybody Gets Low, I Don’t Want To Die Out Here In The Valley" and Nikki's addiction that is starting to unfold.
 
The third track is possibly one of my favorite tunes off of the entire album. When I first heard,” Life Is Beautiful", I thought to myself this song is what life is all about. The acoustic intro, gradually builds to a soaring crescendo, with powerful bass rhythms and lyrics, which include,” You Can't Give Until You Try", You Can't Live Until You Die". There's Nothing Life A Funeral To Make You Feel Alive". This songs lives and breaths death, but at the same time celebrates life. James Michael's vocals soar, with a melodic tone and appeal.
 
The new single,” Pray For Me', begins with a pompous beat, and punk infused catchy guitar rhythm. "Tomorrow" begins with a great acoustic intro, and just as you think that the lifestyle of a rock star is very glamorous, Nikki Sixx and Sixx A.M. prove that theory all wrong with lyrics that are inspired as,” Nothing Is Gonna Last Forever, "People Change Like The Weather". As Nikki refers to all of the fake friends that come through his life and disappear when the going gets tough. A true Hollywood scenario takes place in that tune.
 
Actually, you would think that Intermission would be a time to break and get ready for the next chapter. Just as Nikki Sixx, has always been larger than life, his intermissions are just the same, captivating and exciting. Track 7 "Intermission" features Nikki SIxx stating,” When I first found the memoirs, I asked myself, "Why I am still alive"? I have talked to Nikki about this matter, and he still has no answer. My theory would be, he was spared form death, so he could help other people that have addictions and save their lives. He is the perfect person that holds a lot of the answers that people are searching for. Nikki told me why he and Sixx A/M. wrote the soundtrack to "Heroin Diaries", Nikki comments,” I had so many people comment on how life changing they feel the lyrics are. One person told me, they were on the verge of suicide until they heard the song. That is why we make music right there, in a nutshell." 
 
After the Intermission, Sixx A.M. take a journey to the dark side and face death, with the song,” Dead Man Ballet'. One of the most moving and compelling tracks on the release is,” Heart Failure". As the songs begins with a helicopter coming to save Nikki's life, and deals with Nikki's almost fatal brush with death, when his heart actually stopped and he died for a split second and was brought back to life. I suddenly had a flashback to the "Kickstart My Heart" era. This song is very compelling, as it drags you in, and makes you feel the pain of the artist. 
 
The "Heroin Diaries" soundtrack is not just about one genre of music. It is about different feelings, different moods, and different stages of Nikki Sixx's journey through his addiction. The cast of characters is not pretty, but yet they are so real. Some of the songs have a melodic feel, and some have a kick start approach with guitars that speak in furious tones, and voices that go from melodic to passionately painful lyrics. DJ Ashba has a punk rock edge that give that certain hard rock edge when needed, but he is also capable of bringing it down to and giving some songs an acoustic, orchestrated appeal. Nikki Sixx is giving the performance of his lifetime. I would love to see this album and book release scripted with actors on Broadway, it is that compelling.
 
Another highlight that is one of the best analogies that I have ever heard is the song,” Girl With The Golden Eyes." As SIXX A.M. compares a girl to heroin. As James Michael croons to a hauntingly beautiful guitar melody,” She Speaks To Me In Persian, Tells Me That She Loves Me, The Girl With Golden Eyes. And Although I Hardly Know Her, I Let Her In My Veins, and Trust Her With My Life" sums up the whole addiction fantasy, as an addict that artist struggles to escape his demons. 
 
Without giving the entire album away, the last song,” Life and Death" features the battle that rages in Nikki's mind for his quest to survive, as Nikki speaks,” So We Are At the End, And At the Same Time We are At The Beginning". A perfect ending to one of the most compelling, musical journey that I have ever listened to.

Buy the CD Here

Rating out of 10: 10
www.nikkisixx.net
Review by Deb Rao

Deepfield
Archetypes and Repetition

Stand out tracks: Wayside, The Silence, Dead Horse (the love between us)

Deepfield just released their debut CD called “Archetypes and Repitition” off label In De Goot Recordings on July 24th. This quartet out of South Carolina consists of singer/guitarist Baxter Teal III, lead guitarist J. King, bassist Dawson Huss, and drummer Russell Lee. A 35 second piano ballad called “Innocence” starts this musical journey into the hard rockin second track “44 teeth.” One of my favorite tracks on the CD is called “Wayside.” This cut is a somewhat deep and personal journey that incorporates the piano towards the end of the song. If your looking for that ballad that talks about hard luck relationships, well its’ on here with the heartfelt “The Bleeding.” Baxter Teal’s vocals kind of remind me of Sebastian Bach’s without the range. A really great voice! Baxter Teal III really pushes his nay-sayers aside with the song “Into the Flood.” I love the guitar work from J. King on the song “Your Forever.” It’s heavy and melodic all in one track. Another one of my favorites on this CD is “The Silence.” Dawson Huss and Russell Lee are locked in and loaded during the track “Dead Horse (the love between us).” It’s a great rhythm track to get the senses stimulated and juices flowing. Talk about taking a song and making it your own. Deepfield covers “En Vogue’s,” yes that’s right I said En Vogue’s song “Don’t Let Go.” This is a sexy take your significant other and want to “satisfy” them kind of song. Well, you can still do that, but not as gentle as before.

It’s cool to see a band take some chances and this CD, which is more melodic than hard driven, is still good enough to wet your pallet and make your mate scream “Don’t Let Go!”

Buy the CD here

Rating out of 10: 7.5
band site www.myspace.com/deepfield
Review by Gus Griesinger

MINK
Mink

Band Line-Up: Neal Carlson-vocals; Stella Mozgawa-drums; Nick Maybury-lead guitar; David Lowy-rhythm guitar; Grant Fitzpatrick-bass

Stand-Out Tracks: Madame Chung, Get it Right, Pressure Pressure,

Aside from having one of the most ultra cool websites I’ve ever seen, www.minkmusic.com, these guys further impressed me with their unique sound and pop punk punch. Having recently opened a show for the legendary KISS, and now set to tour with Perry Farell’s new gig, Satellite Party, Mink is getting the road experience all young bands yearn for and then some. They have dates lined-up all across the US and their self-titled debut is slated for release in late August.

For the most part Mink’s sound is a stripped down, raw rock and roll rouse that permeates the ear with beats that range from hitting a tin can to arena sized rolls that conquer the senses, courtesy of Australian drummer Stella Mozgawa.

Singer, Neal Carlson, the only non-Australian of the 5, paid his dues jamming in a multitude of local acts in NYC and delivers his own style of brazen cocksure attitude on cuts such as “New York Summer” and the gritty “Get It Right.” He also proves he can belt it out with the best of ‘em on the powerful “Pressure Pressure, ” and conversely mellow the mood on the CD’s sole ballad “Will Not Let You Down.” 

“Madame Chung” caught my attention on first listen. It’s got that sassy rock groove, an infectious chorus and a glam-tastic guitar solo while “Talk To Me” boasts radio ready spunkiness with a hint of early 80’s pop.

As long as they can avoid the pitfalls of touring the world that sometimes leads to the demise of promising young bands, I predict Mink will be gracing the airwaves with their upbeat, hook- filled tunes for sometime to come.  

Rating out of 10: 7.5
Review by Tracey L

Foghat
Live Live 2

The 70’s boogie-rock band Foghat celebrates the 30th anniversary of their classic live album Foghat –Live by releasing a follow up aptly titled Foghat –Live 2. This CD was recorded at the Sycuan Casino in El Cajon, CA during July 2005. And although the line-up of the band is 50% different than it was thirty years ago with ex-Ted Nugent member Charlie Huhn replacing the late Dave Peverette on vocals/rhythm guitar and Bryan Bassett in place of the late Rod Price on guitar. The spirit of Foghat remains. Huhn is a great soulful vocalist and really shines on the band’s biggest hits such as “I Just Want to Make Love to You,” “Fool for the City” and “Slow Ride.” Bassett is a seasoned guitarist that tears up the fret-board and plays some amazing slide guitar. The original rhythm section of Roger Earl on drums and Craig MacGregor on bass have great chemistry together and still can lay down that funky groove like none other.

This release also consists of six newer hard hitting songs that prove that Foghat is still a relevant band not content with solely living in the past. Yes, it’s true most live release do suck, but this one definitely doesn’t. Do your CD collection a favor and go out and buy it now.

Review by Thomas S. Orwat, Jr.
Rating out of 10: 8
Buy this CD here
More info www.foghat.net

Chris Caffery
Pins and Needles

Stand out tracks: “66”, “Chained” ,“In the Midst”                                   

Multi talented Chris Caffery just released his solo effort “Pins and Needles” June 5th on Locomotive Records. You may know Chris from his other endeavors: guitarist for the band Savatage and Sava-Claus with the Trans Siberian Orchestra. He continues to be a major force with both of those projects and in his down time was able to put out this solo material out as well. He worked extremely hard to get this latest effort release since the label that originally signed him (Black Lotus Records) out of Greece went out of business. But, Chris was determined to get this CD out and found a home at Locomotive Records. “Pins and Needles” has 15 tracks plus two bonus tracks “The Time” an alternative arrangement from track 10, and “Pisses me off 2007.” The promotional CD carries the two additional tracks. Chris does the vocals, guitar, bass, percussion, and saxophone on this CD. In addition, he also gets help from Guitarist Alex Skolnick from Testament.

The first cut and title track “Pins and Needles,” definitely has a Savatage-esque kind of feel to it. A great song to get the disc started. “66” includes fantastic guitar and drum work here. An overall nice mix that showcases more than the guitar that he is primarily known for. When listening to “Walls,” I liked how the keyboards were integrated into the song. The track was very slow and melodic until the pace picks up and takes off from there. When I was looking at the song listing, I was wondering what track 5 “Y.G.T.B.F.K.M.” meant? Well, you got to be fucking kidding me if you don’t know what it means (lol)! Chris really makes this track work here. It is very personal and to the point. My favorite cut on the CD is “Chained”. Chris shows a fantastic vocal range here. A great instrumental track “In the Midst” has a Mexican kind of feel to it. The song “Quaaludio” even though a minute and a half, definitely makes you wanting more and thinking why did the song just end? Looking for a more aggressive track? If you can get your hands on the CD with the bonus track “Pisses Me Off” it has great angry lyrical content. Chris pretty much describes as much hate that a person can have in 4:27!
 
Chris is pulling double duty this summer as he is in support of his solo CD “Pins and Needles” by opening up for and playing lead guitar for the Metal Queen Doro Pesch. Go here: www.myspace.com/chriscaffery for tour dates and more information.   

Rating 8 out of 10.
Review by Gus Griesinger


Ozzy Osbourne
Black Rain

Stand out tracks: “Not Going Away,” “Countdowns Begun,” and “Trap Door”

On May 22nd 2007 Ozzy Osbourne released his first studio CD in six years called “Black Rain” on Epic Records. This ten track disc is very personal and totally describes what currently is going on in the world of Ozzy. The CD was produced by Kevin Churko and Ozzy himself. All of the songs were written by Ozzy, Kevin, and guitarist Zakk Wylde except two tracks that were written by Ozzy and Kevin only. Bass player Blasko and drummer Mike Bordin round out the rest of Ozzy’s band who plays on the latest effort.

The first two tracks “Not Going Away” and “I Don’t Want to Stop” are pretty much straight forward balls to the wall rock anthems. If you’re a Zakk fan, then you will appreciate these songs the most. He definitely has left his imprint all over these tracks. After listening to the vocals on these cuts, there shouldn’t be any wonder if and when Ozzy will be retiring anytime soon. Bass player Blasko shines on the title track “Black Rain” and the “Almighty Dollar.” It was very cool to see the bass featured especially on the “Almighty Dollar” song. I thought the harmonica part on “Black Rain” was very cool idea. The lyrical content on “11 Silver” focuses in on drug use. The second ballad on this CD “Here for You” is in the “Dreamer” mode. It includes piano and strings. Ozzy’s vocals really shine on this song. Could I see this being released as the next single? Yes, I can! My favorite track on the CD is “Countdowns Begun.” It has everything; very heavy riffs, great vocals, and solid drumming and bass playing. If any song on this CD can be classified as a “typical” Ozzy song, than this would be it! Drummer Mike Bordin showcases his talents on the last track “Trap Door.” In addition to Mike’s talents, Ozzy really lets his vocals take over on this cut as well. This song is another one of my favorites on the CD.

If your thinking this is just one of Ozzy’s quickly put together and rushed efforts, think again. This CD will make you proud you were, are, and will continue to be an OZZY fan for life! A must for metal fans this summer! Check out Ozzy on this years Ozzfest tour which kicks off July 12th in Seattle. Go to www.ozzfest.com for more info and a list of tour dates.

Rating: 9 out of 10
Review by Gus Griesinger


Zap
Work in Progress

Track Listing: Slowmotion Lifetime, Wheel of Life, BFD

This 3-song demo was given to me a while back, okay a long while back (sorry John!). It features songs written, arranged and recorded by local musicians from Buffalo, NY all of whom have showcased their individuals talents playing in and around the Upstate NY area throughout the past two decades.
Guitarist John Jeffrey and drummer Pete Gugino were spawn of Burnt Coyote and Jody Valetta fronted the original incarnation of Jive Injection in the late 80’s, early 90’s. 

Each of the tunes is a well-crafted reflection of 80’s influenced hard rock with masterful solos, infectious riffs and powerful vocals. Although I love the guitar solo in “Slowmotion Lifetime,” “Life is a Wheel” stands above the other songs with it’s catchy and emotional lyrics, and I’m into it all the way until the abrupt end of the song where I’ll admit I was hoping for a more rock and roll finale like big crashing symbols or something, but the song still rocks and Valetta’s delivery on this one is great.   

BFD is a tongue and cheek song, of sorts, detailing the inevitable feelings of heartbreak and rejection none of us are ever excused from in life, though we’re left guessing who or what the initials actually represent. 
Overall, this demo peaks my interest and I would hope these guys stay the course and begin work on a full length offering in the near future.

Review by Tracey L.
site coming soon !!!

Tesla
Real to Reel
(Reel 1)

Stand-out tracks (hard to pick!): “Space Truckin’” “Dear Mr. Fantasy” ‘I’ve Got a Feeling” “Rock Bottom”

Ah, the power of creative marketing, some might say a successful band is as good as it’s representation. In the case of Tesla, they seem to be winning all as they continue to sell-out venues 20+ years deep into their career. Despite a brief break-up and the teeter-tottering Tommy Skeoch, (who’s spot is now spectacularly occupied by guitarist Dave Rude) Tesla has presented its fans with a new studio recording featuring 25 cover tunes spanning a variety of rock classics. But wait! There’s a catch. Should you go to your local FYE store and purchase this disk, don’t go back after opening it and ream out the manager claiming you got boned because only one of the two disks of the set was in the package. Oh no! That’s the clever marketing shtick. In order to get disk 2, you will need to purchase a concert ticket to one of Tesla’s upcoming dates near you! That’s right boys and girls. Only true Tesla fans are eligible for disk 2. That’s one way to beat the free trade going on with today’s downloadable technology. Genius. 

Speaking of genius, lets focus on the music shall we?
Frank Hannon instills his signature Gibson tonality and precision into every track, giving each tune that sprinkling of Tesla magic. One of things I love about this band is that they have a recognizable style, yet maintain the versatility to keep things interesting. Jeff Keith possesses one of those distinct voices that define the band and Hannon’s style shines through with the intensity of a thousand suns. Given those parameters, doing an album of strictly covers has its challenges. There are two approaches. Perform the song as close to the original as possible, or change it up to reflect your interpretation of it. Here, we are treated to a little of both. Keith parallels the original vocals, where Hannon and Dave Rude trade takes in delivering some intricate and blistering guitar solos. None more apparent than on UFO’s “Rock Bottom.”

As I listened to the first 4 tracks, I felt like Jeff Keith was being a bit conservative on the vocals. Especially on the Zeppelin ballad “Thank You.” It got to the part of the song where I thought to myself, “Okay, this is it. He’s gotta unleash it here or I’m gonna be pissed.” And without letting me down, J.K. rips into the lyric “For you to me are the ooooh- ohhh- ly wah ah- ah- ah on,” YEAH BABY! That’s what I’m talking about, gimme those goose bumps up & down the arm!  

Similarly, Clapton’s “Bell Bottom Blues” has that delicate intricacy, but according to Hannon, the guitar parts are simplistic, but sometimes those prove to be the hardest to nail down.
He also explains that this recording is not only a tribute to Tesla’s rock and roll mentors, but a “true” representation of the band, the music and the mood, as any thoughts of editing out mistakes or utilizing technological enhancements were abandoned.

What is left is a compilation of some of the greatest pieces of music straight from the rock archives, performed with the passion and playful spirit that embodies this mighty little band from Sacramento, California, who will undoubtedly be inducing perm-a-grins on the faces of their fans while out on tour all summer long. Shame on you if you don’t make it a point to check ‘em out and get your greasy hands on Reel 2.

Rating out of 10: 9
Review by Tracey L  
www.teslatheband.com

Poison
Poison’d

This week in the mail I received two new releases. I use the term “new” loosely. The first was Poison’s “Poison’d” disk. The band boasts this as their first “new” studio recording since 2002’s “Hollyweird.” That is fact. Although, it is essentially rehashed covers that have been done before, not only by Poison, but countless other bands as well, with the possible exception of “I Never Cry” by Alice Cooper, “Just What I Needed” by The Cars and “Little Willy” by Sweet.

An interesting cross section, don’t you agree?
It’s debatable whether an album consisting solely of covers is necessarily a bad thing per say, however, if I’m going to be expected to follow a band for close to twenty years, keep buying their records and buying tickets to their shows, then as a fan, I expect some fresh effort by said band to create some new delights for my ears, a fair trade in my opinion.

That being said, there are some high points I will mention. Other than the diversity of the song choices, they are all relatively from the same time period of early to mid 70’s, with the most recent being “What I Like About You” by the Romantics. (Ya know…that 80’s song that is a staple of karaoke bars worldwide, most often being belted out by some mullet sporting hick with a belly full of Budweiser and Jack Daniels… yeah that one!)  

That song is definitely NOT the high point of this CD. However, the Cooper acoustic “I Never Cry” and similarly Marshall Tucker’s “Can’t You See” seem to lend a certain personal meaning for one or all of the band members simply by the passion that bleeds through the performance on this pair of tunes. Realizing that when picking songs to cover, it’s usually determined by the love of a particular artists work and/or a particular song that brings back memories of one marked life experience or another. “Dead Flowers” by the Stones, though, seems to have me stumped as to why that one made the cut. I’ll have to ponder that one a little more.    

C.C. DeVille kicks out a few signature solos, most notably on “We’re An American Band”, Your Mama Don’t Dance” and “Squeeze Box” by the Who. Though heard 10,000 times from both the original artist as well as Poison, one song that never gets old is the Kiss classic, “Rock and Roll All Nite.” I’d say it’s a toss up between that cut and “Your Mama Don’t Dance” (a song Poison has made their own over the years) for the best of this compilation. 

Given the majority of fans who are content to hear the same hit songs, performed the same way, on the same stage set-up, at the same venue year after year, maybe I am one of the few exceptions. When a band rolls into town and plays too many “new” songs off a recent release, fans always appear to be slightly disappointed, and that’s a shame.

So, if you count yourself in the majority and are one of a million loyal card carrying members of the Poison posse since 1986, then whatever I have just penned isn’t gonna have any effect on you whatsoever. You’ll still bust out the spandex and the leather bustier (whether it still fits you or not) and proceed to stuff all your buddies into the minivan and drive your asses down to the local ampitheather this summer to watch Brett Michaels’ booty shimmy & shake it’s way across the stage.

To coin a phrase by a fellow Glam-Metal cohort, “It is what it is.” And in the end, we’re all really just in search of nothing but a good time after all, and if Poison is your provider of choice, no harm done. Carry on!

Rating out of 10 – 6
Review by Tracey L 

DORO
20 Years a Warrior Soul

For all you metal fans looking for something to sink your teeth into this summer, I have the perfect DVD for you, Doro Pesch’s “20 Years a Warrior Soul.” This DVD was recently released on May 22nd through Locomotive Records. This 2-disc set has almost 6 hours of Doro that includes, “Warrior Soul”, “On the Road”, 20 Years Anniversary “The Movie” and 20 Years Anniversary “The Concert.”

The first part of the first disc blends behind the scenes footage and live concert footage from her 2006 Warrior Soul Euro-Russian Tour. This disc opens up with the metal queen’s hair flying all over the place and her kicking into “Earthshaker Rock.” Thank goodness for subtitles. Unless you know how to speak German fluently, then this will come in very handy. All the dialogue is in her native German. The disc includes rare behind the scenes footage from Doro meeting her fans to how Doro and her band relax after a show. When in Moscow, Doro talks about how she noticed a pretty girl on somebody’s shoulders with an incredible necklace during one of her shows. Well, the girl came backstage after the show to present her with the necklace. Doro was so touched by this. This disc also shows how important the fans are to Doro. There are many clips of different fans from different cities throughout the disc. Also as a joke, bassist Nick Douglass creates this fictional “metal man” that he spreads to the people that need a metal lift. The DVD includes the songs “You’re My Family”, “Above the Ashes” and “Warrior Soul.”

The second part of the first disc is 20 Years Anniversary “The Movie.” This was the shortened version of disc 2 that was released as a German theatrical release. This disc opens up with “I Rule the Ruins.” It also includes guest appearances by Udo Dirkschneider on “East Meets West”, Blaze Bailey on “Bad Blood”, Jean Beauvoir on “White Wedding”, members of Saxon on “You Got Another Thing Coming”, former members of Warlock on “Fight for Rock”, Lemmy Kilmister & Mikkey Dee on “Love Me Forever” (maybe the best cut on the DVD), and Claus Lessmann on “Born To Be Wild.” Very cool to see all of these metal heavyweights pay tribute to the Metal Queen herself!

What would a Doro DVD be without closing with her biggest known hit “All We Are.” Both DVD’s use multiple camera angles and the audio is available in PCM 2.0 stereo and Dolby Digital 5.1. Maybe it would have been cool to add a video or too, but hell with almost 6 hours of footage who’s complaining?
 
Even though most of Doro’s releases tend to be a little harder to get because they have to be imported, it seems this DVD is readily available and you can purchase it here. So there is no excuse not to pick up this jam packed double DVD set. Doro is touring North America right now. Go to http://www.doropesch.com for tour details.

Rating; 8 out of 10.
Review By Gus Griesinger

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