The At The Movies project - launched by Pretty Maids guitarist Chris Laney due to the COVID-19 pandemic - caught fire over the course of 2020, with many fans asking that the '80s soundtrack covers be made available as digital platform streams, or on CD and vinyl. The project has now kicked off Season 2, as they call it, which will feature movie soundtrack covers from the '90s. 

Check out the first shot for 2021, a cover of "Waiting For A Star To Fall" by the pop duo Boy Meets Girl, originally released in 1988 and taken from the 1990 movie Three Men And A Little Lady"

The core At The Movies players are as follows:

Björn "Speed" Strid (Soilwork) - lead vocals
Linnéa Vikström Egg (Therion) - backing vocals
Chris Laney (Pretty Maids) - guitars
Allan Sørensen (Royal Hunt, Pretty Maids) - drums
Morten Sandager (Pretty Maids) - keyboards
Pontus Norgren (HammerFall) - guitars
Pontus Egberg (King Diamond) - bass

Stay tuned for more.

Canadian rock icons Helix premiered their official video for "The Tequila Song" on New Year's Eve. Check it out below.

Prior to the release, the band announced a new swag contest:

"To coincide with the video release we're going to be giving away a Helix swag package worth over $400.00:

- 20 Helix CDs
- 3 Helix shirts (different sizes; no choice on size - sorry)
- 2 Helix DVDs
- Vollmer's Get Yer Hands Dirty vinyl LP
- Bastard Of The Blues - blue vinyl LP
- Helix hat 
- Helix fridge magnet
- Helix patch

How to win: Like, share this post and name who played the part in the comments. Correct answers will be entered in the draw).

1) Jose Quervo Baby -
2) Bartender -
3) Minister -
4) Shot Glass Sitter -

Contest runs until the end of january, draw in February."

Enter the contest via the official Helix Facebook page here.

Helix frontman Brain Vollmer checked in with the following update:

Helix recently released the Eat Sleep Rock CD on Perris Records, a compilation album with some of singer Brian Vollmer’s personal favorite songs recorded since leaving Captiol/EMI in 1990. The album was recorded at bassist Darryl Gray's own Dawghouse Studios, mixed by Siegfried Meier and mastered by Harry Hess (Harem Scarem). The artwork was done by ex-Helix guitarist Brent Doerner with photos by Victor Azziz Studios. "Brent is a very creative guy," states Vollmer. When he was in the band writing songs, he was with us for I think 16 or 18 years. I've always found him as a person who thought outside the box when it came to creativity so it's great still having him involved with Helix projects. He's like a 6th member."

Eat Sleep Rock adds the new track "Eat Sleep Rock" and includes "The Story Of Helix," a rap that Brian wrote a couple of years ago to kick off the acoustic show. "Eat Sleep Rock" is the first to feature new Helix guitarist Gary Borden, a veteran of the Canadian music scene who has played with Sass Jordan, Toronto and The Guess Who, worked with Gowan, and fronts his own original act Blood Of VanGogh. Brian continues, "Kaleb left last year, he was a solid member for over 10 years and he is still involved with the band writing for the next studio album. Gary is a great guy and he fits right in. It's great having guys with personalities like Gary and Chris (Julke, guitarist) to bring you up as it's tough when you are out there doing it all weekend long, travelling, playing, getting up early and flying. I got a great bunch of guys behind me."

For anyone that missed the August 14th BraveWords video premiere for "Eat Sleep Rock", check out the clip below.

Keep up to date with all things Helix in their newly designed website at Planethelix.com.

Smackbound, the hard rock/metal band from the robust and acclaimed Finnish music scene, released their debut album, 20/20, via Frontiers Music Srl back in June. The band's full performance, shot and edited by Topias Kupiainen at Sonic Pump Studios, Helsinki, can be seen below:

The 20/20 album was recorded at Sonic Pump Studios, produced by Tuomas Yli-Jaskari mixed and mastered by Jesse Vainio (Sunrise Avenue, Apocalyptica, Poets Of The Fall).

Tracklisting:

"Wall Of Silence"
"Drive It Like You Stole It"
"Close To Sober"
"Run"
"The Game"
"Those Who Burn"
"Hey Motherfuckers"
"Troublemaker"
"Date With The Devil"
"Wind And Water"

"Run" video:

"Wall Of Silence" video:

"Close To Sober" video:

"Those Who Burn" lyric video:

"Drive It Like You Stole It" video:

"The Game" video:

Lineup:

Netta Laurenne - Vocals
Teemu Mäntysaari - Guitars
Rolf Pilve - Drums
Vili Itäpelto - Keyboards
Tuomas Yli-Jaskari - Bass

Sicilian Artists For Charity project is back with a new bombastic Christmas cover song, rearranged in a symphonic metal style.

The Sicilian combo, with a new lineup, featuring lyrical singer Laura Macrì (MaYaN), presents “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” the well known Christmas anthem written by John Lennon & Yoko Ono. Once again this cover version has been arranged for the orchestra by Salvo Grasso (Hypersonic, Metatrone, Astralium) with the collaboration of the guitarist Salvo Calà.

Mixed & nastered by Riccardo Samperi at TRP MUSIC Studio. Video editing by Antonio Gueli, Salvo Grasso and Salvo Calà.

Sicilian Artists For Charity will be donating all profits from downloads and streams to “Amici delle missioni Sicilia” ONLUS Associazione, made up of health care workers (doctors and nurses) and secular people from Sicily (Italy) who support through health aid and economic /social support activities (construction of schools and water wells, long distance adoptions, nutritional centers, maternal/child support) some populations of Guinea Bissau.

Below, the payment details through Bank and Post Office:

IBAN: IT67 U 05036 84150 CC10 318 68602
Intestazione: Ass. Onlus “Amici delle Missioni Sicilia”
Istituto: Banca Agricola Popolare di Ragusa, Agenzia di Ramacca (CT)
Bic/Swift: POPRIT31103
IBAN Posta: IT47 T067 0116 9000 0101 9940 715
Intestazione: Ass. Onlus “Amici delle Missioni Sicilia”
Istituto: Ufficio Postale Ramacca
Bic/Swift: BPPIITRRXXX

New Year, New Beginnings! Sex Slaves bassist / vocalist Del Cheetah takes a moment to remind us what's important this year as he covers the Lynyrd Skynyrd classic, "Simple Man".

On a much lighter note, back in May 2020, Del Cheetah introduced the world to Monster Cock Millionaires. Check out their debut video, "I Like Girls".

"I Like Girls" appears on Monster Cock Millionaire's debut three-song EP, Quarantine Dreams. The cover art and tracklisting are as follows:

"WDMF"
"I Like Girls"
"On The Floor"

For further details, including how to obtain your own copy of Quarantine Dreams, visit MonsterCockMillionaires.com, or take a peek on Facebook.

 

"It's 'The Uh-Oh Song'," begins Alice Cooper guitarist Ryan Roxie in reference to his just-released, solo video. "Even though this past year has been a bit of an 'uh-oh' type of year, I think the lyrics in this one will give us some hope and peace of mind that hey...'THIS Year, things will be different' (remember?)"

"'The Uh-Oh Song' is the 10th and final video release for the Imagine Your Reality album. Can you think of any other album (other than a Greatest Hits) where there was an 'Official' video made for each and every song? That's got to be some sort of record, or at least be rewarded with a 'participation ribbon' of some sort... ha!"

"A swampy riff-rock anthem that beckons its audience to utter only two words... although there are plenty more than just two guitars that fill the airwaves. 'The Uh-Oh Song' was produced by Kristoffer Folin at Purple Skull Studios in Stockholm, Sweden."

"Heart's In Trouble":

"Nevermind Me":

"Look Me In The Eye":

"Big Rock Show":

"God Put A Smile On Your Face":

"Me Generation":

"To Live And Die In L.A.":

"Over And Done":

"California Man":

 

The New York Times correspondent Julia Jacobs reports:

Ticketmaster has agreed to pay a $10 million fine to resolve charges that it intruded into the computer system of one of its competitors, prosecutors said on Wednesday (December 30), ending a yearslong legal battle over claims that the company illegally interfered in the business of a ticketing start-up called Songkick.

More than two years ago, Ticketmaster reached a settlement with Songkick in response to a lawsuit that accused the concert giant of abusing its market power to control the sales of tickets. In addition to settling for $110 million, Ticketmaster acquired some of Songkick’s remaining technology assets and patents for an undisclosed sum.

The court battle also involved accusations of corporate espionage that led to an investigation by federal prosecutors in New York.

Prosecutors for the U.S. attorney’s office for the Eastern District of New York said in court documents that the computer intrusions were spearheaded by a former Songkick employee who left the start-up in 2012 and later started working for Ticketmaster, which is owned by Live Nation. The employee was said to have disseminated Songkick’s login information to other Ticketmaster employees so they could access an app called an artist toolbox, which provided data on purchases of presale tickets through Songkick, the documents said.

The employee also was accused of sharing URLs that led to drafts of Songkick’s ticketing web pages. In response to that information, prosecutors said, a Ticketmaster executive wrote that the goal was to “choke off” their competitor and “steal back” one of Songkick’s key clients.

To read the complete report, click here.

 

Swedish rockers, Thundermother, rocked out for Wacken World Wide during the pandemic summer of 2020. You can watch the band's full set below.

Setlist:

"Give Me Some Lights"
"Thunderous"
"Revival"
"Whatever"
"Racing On Main Street"
"Hellavator"
"Fire In The Rain"
"Rip Your Heart Off"
"Deal With The Devil"
"Rock 'N' Roll Heaven"
"Shoot To Kill"
"Driving In Style"
"We Fight For Rock 'N' Roll"

Thundermother's latest album, Heat Wave, is available via AFM Records.

Tracklisting:

“Loud And Alive”
“Dog From Hell”
“Back In ‘76”
“Into The Mud”
“Heat Wave”
“Sleep”
“Driving In Style”
“Free Ourselves”
“Mexico”
“Purple Sky”
“Ghosts”
“Somebody Love Me”
“Bad Habits”

"Into The Mud" video:

Last Temptation, featuring guitarist Peter Scheithauer (Killing Machine, Belladonna, Temple Of Brutality), vocalist Butcho Vukovic (Watcha, Showtime), bassist Julien Rimaire (Los Dissidentes Del Sucio Hotel), and drummer Vince Brisach (Mitch Ryder), have released a lyric video for "How I Am", a track from their self-titled debut, released in 2019 via earMUSIC. Get the album here here, and watch the new clip below.

Tracklisting:

"I Win I Lose"
"Bring Your Light Out"
"Blow A Fuse"
"Never Say Goodbye"
"How I Am"
"Faster and Faster"
"Locked Up In Myself"
"Nobody Is Free"
"Coming For You"
"Hell Is Walking In My Shoes"
"The Exit"

"How I Am" lyric video:

"I Win I Lose":

"Blow A Fuse":

Last Temptation have signed a world-wide deal with Crusader Records (part of the Golden Robot Global Entertainment Group). "We are beyond excited to be a part of Crusader Records / Golden Robot Records family," says the band. "After a few talks, it was clear that GRR would be Last Temptation's home. A label and a team that understand what rock 'n roll is all about, and mostly understand our needs. We can't wait to share the new songs we have been polishing during those down times! And once we get a green light, the roads are calling us to meet with our fans and get that party rolling."

To celebrate the announcement, Last Temptation have released a sample of their upcoming single, "Main Attraction".

The new album has been recorded and includes guests such as Kenny Aronoff among others and will be released in mid-2021.

(Photo - Benjamin Hincker - Photographie)

In a sea of new metal bands, these four, or “Fore”, metal heads have come out with a classic punk rock band and debut album.

Featuring former Kreator bassist Christian “Spiesi” Giesler, Jeramie Kling (Venom Inc, ex-Massacre, The Absence) on drums, Taylor Nordberg (ex-Massacre, The Absence) on guitar, and rounded out by Brian “The Canadian Glenn Hughes” Stephenson on vocals, the band has formed, written, recorded and released their debut full-length album, Hombres.

Self-released back in August, Hombres features twelve blistering punk anthems in the vein of Bad Religion, Pennywise, The Offspring, and NOFX. Today we receive the first official music video for the single “Today We Rise (No Tomorrow)”, which features the Tampa Rejects skateboard team.

Watch the video below. You can order Hombres digitally at forepunk.bandcamp.com, or on CD through the band’s social media pages. Details on a vinyl release will be announced soon.

Organizers for the annual Rock Meets Classic tour through parts of Europe have posted another previously unreleased clip, this time from their 2017 run.

"At the end of this year, we would like to thank all of you for the loyalty! Have fun with a very special song by Uriah Heep and see you again in the new hopefully better year." 

Check out Uriah Heep guitarist Mick Box and vocalist Bernie Shaw performing "July Morning" from the band's 1971 album, Look At Yourself, with the Rock Meets Classic orchestra.

Rock Meets Classic recently confirmed Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider for the 2021 run of the annual tour. Snider will perform a Best Of Twisted Sister set for the duration of the tour.

Rock Meets Classic also confirmed that Europe frontman Joey Tempest will return as the headliner for the annual tour in 2021. This will be Tempest's second time with Rock Meets Classic, having headlined the 2016 run. Mike Tramp (White Lion), Midge Ure (Ultravox, Thin Lizzy) and Ronnie Romero (Rainbow, Lords Of Black) have also been confirmed.

Below is the curent tour schedule for RMC 2021.

Snider previously performed with Rock Meets Classic with a special one-off set at Wacken Open Air 2015. Check out pro-shot footage below.

Canadian rock veterans Econoline Crush, fronted by Trevor Hurst along with talented members Ziggy Sigmund (guitarist, 1997-2002, 2009-present) and drummer Dayvid Swart (Todd Kerns Band), are back after recording their first full-length album in over a decade. They recently released a new single, "Fight Like The Devil", which is available digitally here. Check it out below.

Hurst: "While quarantined during the ongoing pandemic I found myself watching a lot of television, just to witness so many tragic events leaving people feeling like they weren’t being heard, let alone respected and equal. These events led to activists and protesters taking to the streets in frustration, and we stand with them. 'Fight Like The Devil' was written for those brave souls who march and protest so we can dream of a future where we all have an opportunity to pursue our dreams and live our lives without fear of intimidation or discrimination. 

Delivering their first single "Get Out Of The Way", the rock alumni are ready to hit the stage again with an arsenal of new songs released on indie start-up Amalien Records, and fresh takes on their chart topping hits.

“We decided to re-record 'Get Out Of The Way' (from 2008) to launch our deal with Amalien Records. We think the song suits the times we live in, and helps amplify the voices of those trying to build a better world for everyone. It just felt like the perfect song for this moment in time" says Trevor.

Despite their absence the sound of Econoline Crush is still there, but now with a more transformed and enhanced resonance.

“There's still the industrial sound,” adds Trevor, “but it's drifted towards more classic elements of rock. We're evolving into a more organic direction. The songs are taking a lead role.”

Adaptable as well, the band is a full-on rock assault, with gritty guitars and crashing percussion, but they can also switch to acoustic, soulful rock in a moment’s notice. Entering a new era of production as well, Econoline Crush takes classic rock, industrial and electronica, and melds it to create something both unique and appealing to their legacy of fans, and new music fans of today.

Along with the release of the new album and single, diligent lead vocalist Trevor Hurst worked tirelessly on an upcoming documentary film, slated for release in 2021. Flatlander sheds a light on what the singer has been doing in the years between live performances and songwriting. It’s an admirable journey from a man who has toured with Alice Cooper, opened for KISS at New York’s Madison Square Garden and headlined his own tours, but Trevor Hurst is now also a registered psychiatric nurse. Reconciling the pursuit of rock stardom with the desire to connect with people and make a difference, Hurst and Econoline Crush are reemerging now as a revitalized band, with a deeper sense of purpose.

On the latest efforts by the band, Hurst says “I realized what a great gift was bestowed upon us as a band and as individuals, to have this ability to make music and to entertain. I don't take this for granted. That's why everybody in the band feels this is not an opportunity to waste.”

Fallen Arise has released a new lyric video for “Forever Winter”. Created by HK Visual Creations, the track is featured on their new album, Enigma, released on April 10. Order Enigma here.

Fallen Arise wanted their music to sound as contemporary as possible, but at the same time to remain faithful to the kind of music they play. Pop aesthetics are always something they are willing to implement in their craft, keeping in mind that pop music is a huge influence on the band's compositions. All this combined with the elements that define metal music and the orchestral idea which is still present in the band had provided this end result. The choice of collaborators for the creation of the “Enigma” was very thoughtful and targeted in order to achieve the result the band sought. The band's photo session and "Reborn" video shooting took place at rEvolver studios (Sweden) with the mighty Patric Ullaeus behind the camera. 

Fallen Arise comment on this experience: “The least we can say is that we had an unforgettable time there and it was a unique experience for us working with such an amazing and talented guy.”

For almost 40 years, Queensrÿche has been hailed as one of the forefathers of American progressive hard rock and metal music. But the band’s complete story has never been told—until now. NW Metalworx Music is proud to announce it will publish the first-ever Queensrÿche biography in late 2021, as part of the NW Metalworx book line.

Written by James R. Beach, with Brian L. Naron and Brian J. Heaton, Building An Empire: The Story Of Queensrÿche, takes a deep dive on Queensrÿche, from its original members’ musical beginnings in the high schools of suburban Seattle, to the group’s rise to stardom in the 1990s. The book will cover how Queensrÿche evolved from album to album, the various events that led to the band’s fracture and declining popularity, and the amazing heavy metal revival period Queensrÿche has enjoyed over the last several years.

Paul Suter, the acclaimed writer from Kerrang! who broke Queensrÿche’s story in early 1983, will write the tome’s Foreword. Heaton, the founder of AnybodyListening.net, a historical retrospective on Queensrÿche’s original lineup, penned the Afterword.

Beach and Naron are fresh off publishing Rusted Metal, their mammoth 900-plus page guide to hard rock and heavy metal bands from 1970-1995 in the Pacific Northwest. Heaton joins the duo for the foray into Queensrÿche’s past, serving as one of the band’s unofficial historians over the past quarter-century.

“We were looking for the next book to write and were shocked to discover no one had told Queensrÿche’s story,” said Beach. “For us, it was a no-brainer to tackle their rich history, especially off the work we did researching the band for
Rusted Metal.”

“As we finished Rusted Metal, James and I realized we had so much more to say about Queensrÿche,” added Naron. “I've been a fan since 1982, and ebbed and flowed with the band. But after revisiting each Queensrÿche record and tour cycle for the book, I've fallen in love with the band all over again. Queensrÿche has always been a secretive band, and it has been fun talking to people who have helped unlock their past."

“The thing the three of us agreed on, was that Queensrÿche’s story is one of perseverance,” Heaton said. “The band’s music and personal history is rooted in change and overcoming obstacles, and that makes it a compelling story to write, and we hope, for everyone to read.”

Building An Empire: The Story Of Queensrÿche is an unauthorized account, featuring interviews with the band members themselves, and various associated people from Queensrÿche’s almost 40-year history—including managers, producers, crew members, family, friends and peers. The book weaves existing interviews from the band’s career with new ones, resulting in an all-encompassing, objective look at Queensrÿche’s career.

The book is slated for a fall 2021/winter 2022 release on NW Metalworx Music’s website, nwmetalworxmusic.com, Amazon.com, and other retailers.

In the new video below, Dark Sarah performs “Iceheart” live at On The Rocks Helsinki on August 7. “Iceheart” is taken from Dark Sarah’s 2020 album, Grim.

Dark Sarah's new epos, Grim, is available via Napalm Records. Order here.

Dark Sarah start an astonishing new fairytale-like storyline with their fourth studio album, Grim. The beguiling new dimension, coalescing between crystal-clear vocals and propulsive hardness, draws you into the tempestuous maelstrom of their horror fantasy theme. Introducing the new protagonist, Luna, the band invites you to their mythical world of orbs, ravens, rabbit-headed people and Mörk, that’ll wrap you up in a surreal dreamscape.

The overwhelming intensity of Dark Sarah’s masterfully told cinematic metal saga sends shivers down your spine and takes possession of heart and soul, while leaving you with pure emotions. Grim flourishes with its full magnitude, unfolding its potential with every very second.

Singer Heidi Parviainen on Grim: “Our new album called Grim is a concept album like its predecessors, but Grim will start a new story line with a modern horror fantasy theme. Musically, Grim introduces a more modern sound and a taste of what's to come in the future - with a “Dark Sarah twist", of course. We're very happy about this album and it has been really fun to make. Also creating the new visual brand and the Grim world has been an adventure already!”

"Illuminate" video:

"All Ears!":

"Melancholia" video:

Dark Sarah is:

Heidi Parviainen - vocals
Sami-Petri Salonen - guitar
Erkka Korhonen - guitar
Rude Rothstén - bass
Thomas Tunkkari - drums

“Bigfoot And The Armies Of Puma Punku" is the first single from the upcoming Scum Of The Earth (SOTE) release scheduled for 2021. 

Scum Of The Earth is led by vocalist / guitarist Riggs, who played with Rob Zombie from 1997 - 2003, appearing on two albums: Hellbilly Deluxe and The Sinister Urge.

The video for “Bigfoot And The Armies Of Puma Punku" was produced by Riggs, shot and edited by Chris Canote of Canote Films, featuring costumes and makeup by Caitlin Kerins, and lighting by Tom Hembre and Darrin Pinegar.

Scum Of The Earth is:

Vocals / guitar - Riggs 
Bass - Brandon Workman 
Drums - Ryan Stevenson

For further details, visit SOTE on Facebook.

 

On December 28, Doro Pesch was a guest on the German cooking show "Herdbanger", hosted by IN EXTREMO's Specki T.D. A behind-the-scenes clip from the program can be seen below.

Earlier today, Doro tweeted: "My 1st cooking show was fun. Even managed to get away w/o cooking & just did a salad. Thanks 2 #herdbanger host @SPECKI_TD. Here's a look behind the scenes w/ me proving my multi tasking abilities, talking about Lemmy AND doing a salad at the same time."

The full show can be seeen in the Amazon Music app and on their Twitch channel.

Doro is currently working on material for a new studio album, tentatively due in 2021. The LP will be the follow-up to "Forever Warriors, Forever United", which came out in 2018. The double album featured 19 regular tracks and six bonus songs.

Compared to her previous efforts, "Forever United" took a more sentimental turn, with lyrical topics covering friendship, love and companionship. A highlight was Doro's tribute to the late and great Lemmy. The album cover artwork was once again created by Doro's favorite artist, Geoffrey Gillespie. It portrayed Doro in the middle of a swarm of wild metal heads exuding attitude, power and positive vibes.

Pesch played three drive-in concerts in her home country this past summer. The shows complied with Germany's social distancing regulations amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Doro released a video for her new single, "Brickwall", in June. The track was made available digitally via Nuclear Blast and on vinyl on July 31.




My 1st cooking show was fun. Even managed to get away w/o cooking & just did a salad ?? Thanks 2 #herdbanger host @SPECKI_TD. Here's a look behind the scenes w/ me proving my multi tasking abilities, talking about Lemmy AND doing a salad at the same time.

??❤️#Love, #Doro pic.twitter.com/kxkZJAsIBR

— DORO (@DoroOfficial) December 29, 2020

Helsinki-based symphonic death / black metal band, Abstrakt, has woken up from hibernation and will release a new album, Uncreation, on February 25th, 2021 via Inverse Records. First single "Radiant Darkness" is released today. Check out the official lyric video below.

The band comments: "The first single, 'Radiant Darkness', was released as demo version years ago but the album version offers a facelift with brass knuckles in completely new way. 'Radiant Darkness' is a prime example of the album's more straightforward material, where synth arrangements have taken a back seat role and a relentless beatdown takes the center stage."
  

 
Following is a brief band history:

"Abstrakt was formed by Nightderanger and Azul Corax in spring of 2008. Abstrakt was a two-man project and our first demo was recorded with session musicians in February 2011. Progress was slow but steady and after two more demos, we began to create our first album, Obsidian and to recruit more musicians. Obsidian was published in November 2013 and finally in spring of 2014 it was time for our first gig. Shortly after our first gigs, we were again without a drummer and bassist. Nightderanger, Azul Corax and Apostate continued composing new material. In August 2016 we recorded our last demo, which included three songs which all are included in our second album. We regained a full line-up and some gigs were played. In January 2019 the final recordings of our second album had begun, slowly but surely, and the recordings were completed in October 2020. Now our second album, Uncreation, is finished and Abstrakt is in its best shape ever, hungrier, angrier and better than ever before."

Tracklist:

"Ex Vanitas"
"From Chaos to Creation"
"Etherstorms"
"The Great Chasm of Humanity"
"Prophet of Fire"
"The Ascendant"
"Inferno"
"Radiant Darkness"
"Screaming for Vengeance"
"Uncreation"

All-Canadian cover band Toque, featuring Todd Kerns and Brent Fitz (who both play in Slash Featuring Myles Kennedy And The Conspirators), along with Cory Churko, and Shane Gaalaas, has issued a video for their version of the Sheriff song, "When I'm With You".

Formed in Toronto, Ontario, Sheriff originally released "When I'm With You" on their self-titled debut and only album in 1982. Seven years later in 1989, Capitol Records re-released "When I'm With You" as a single, and it hit #1 on The Billboard Charts.

Earlier this month, Sheriff vocalist Freddy Curci appeared on Toque Talk. The 74-minute episode can be seen below.

And, here's Sheriff performing their hit, "When I'm With You":

(Artwork by Scooter Magee)

 

In 1982 the English band, Esquire was formed by Nikki Squire after her husband, Chris Squire (bassist, backing vocalist and a founding member of the progressive rock band, Yes.) went on tour and leaving their home studio free. While assisting the band, New Cross in their home studio Nikki was soon asked to sing lead on a couple of their songs. By the time Chris got off tour he came home to find his wife apart of the band. The band was short lived, but Nikki Squire continued to work and write with the bassist Nigel McLaren.

First they finished the song, Hourglass and continued to work on each song one by one until they had a full album. This 1987 album would their debut album as the band, Esquire.

“Esquire's first album had a lot of talent that contributed to the production of the album.” Jonie Lyle, inventory assistant at Renaissance Records explains. “Chris Squire was also very supportive of Nikki's music endeavors.”

“Chris Squire, Alan White (Drummer in Yes), Trevor Horn (Producer/ Former Singer in Yes) and Nikki Squire's eldest daughter, Carmen Squire, all assisted on their first album.” Lyle states.

Renaissance Records has announced the arrival of the vinyl reissue of Esquire by Esquire. Esquire features tracks, 'To The Rescue', 'Blossomtime', 'Sunshine' and 'Moving Together'. This Limited Edition 180g LP will include extra incentives that Renaissance Records is known to include in their vinyl packaging. These extra incentives include lyrics sheets, exclusive photos, restored liner notes and trading cards of the original band.

This English famous rock band is led by their solid lineup of lead vocalist Nikki Squire, bassist and vocalist Nigel McLaren and keyboardist and vocalist Charles Olins. Preorder here.

Tracklisting:

Side 1
“To The Rescue”
“Sunshine”
“Knock Twice For Heaven”
“Up Down Turnaround”
“Blossomtime”

Side 2
“Hourglass”
“Moving Together”
“Silent Future”
“Special Greetings”
“What You’ve Been Saying”

Horror Pain Gore Death Productions are set to release the new EP from Philadelphia's hardcore/thrash party punks, Wolves Attack!!. Rest In Piss is up now for pre-order and will be released January 29 as a digital album along with t-shirt. Below is the official description:

Wolves Attack!! return to Horror Pain Gore Death with the new EP Rest In Piss! Nearly four years after unleashing their debut release, Piss On Everything, Philly’s one and only 30 pack party punks Wolves Attack!! vomit forth six blistering drunkcore party tunes to hold you over in this pandemic. Rest In Piss is the ideal musical assault to listen to while you keep drinking 40's and continue punching your Mom’s basement walls.

Listen to the track "Heavy Breathing" below.

Pre-order the Digital Download for only $5.55 here. Pre-save this release on Spotify, Apple Music, etc. here. Pre-order the Wolves Attack!! - Sunglasses T-Shirt for only $20 here.

Tracklisting:

"Heavy Breathing"
"Camp Wolf"
"Teeth"
"Neverending 40"
"We Bite" (Misfits cover)
"Full Moon Fuckbeast"

"Heavy Breathing":

Original KISS guitarist Ace Frehley has shot down rumors that he was asked to rejoin his former bandmates on stage at their New Year's Eve concert in the United Arab Emirates.

Earlier today, the following statement was posted on Frehley's Facebook page: "Contrary to online statements, Ace Frehley was not asked to and will not be appearing with KISS at their New Year's Eve concert in Dubai. Ace is currently in Nashville, TN recording his new studio album of all original material. Ace wishes all of his fans a happy and prosperous New Year!"

This past April, Ace said that he was up for a reunion of the original KISS lineup, but only if the price was right.

"Everything's cool," he told SiriusXM's "Trunk Nation with Eddie Trunk" about his relationship with Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons. "What's gonna happen is gonna happen. But everything is delayed at this juncture, so who knows? … I'm doing my own thing. Unless they come forward and the price is right, you're not gonna see me anywhere close by."

In two years after KISS announced its "End Of The Road" farewell tour, fans wondered openly if original members Frehley and drummer Peter Criss would be involved in the trek, especially considering the apparent recent goodwill between Stanley and Simmons and Frehley. Ace's latest album of original material, "Spaceman" — a title suggested by Simmons himself — features two songs the pair wrote together, and the duo completed a joint summer 2018 tour of Australia, after which Frehley fired his solo backing band and hired Simmons's.

Two and a half years ago, Frehley told VintageRock.com that "the only way" he would "seriously consider" taking part in "End Of The Road" is "if I took back my make-up and costume and my character — which I designed." He added that current KISS guitarist Tommy Thayer "is not a bad guitar player, but he basically just mimics everything I wrote, and tries to imitate my persona. He's been doing it for 15 years," he said. "But the reality is I'm the original guy. And nobody can really copy the way I play guitar."

Asked if he would still consider participating in the tour if Criss was not involved, Ace said: "I think it would be great if Peter was involved. Obviously, at this point in his life, he wouldn’t be able to do a two-hour show. But I can see if we worked out a situation where Peter came out at the end and did three or four songs — sang 'Beth', did 'Black Diamond' and a couple of others, I think that would be fun."

KISS's current lineup consists of original members Simmons and Stanley, alongside later band additions, Thayer (since 2002) and drummer Eric Singer (on and off since 1991).

Formed in 1973 by Stanley, Simmons, Criss and Frehley, KISS staged its first "farewell" tour in 2000, the last to feature the group's original lineup.


Contrary to online statements, Ace Frehley was not asked to and will not be appearing with KISS at their New Year’s Eve...

Posted by Ace Frehley on Tuesday, December 29, 2020

‘Twas the night of December 28, 2019, when all through The Crofoot Ballroom, creatures were stirring, moshing and expelling guttural screams. Detroiters Wilson were on stage delivering one last dose of their signature “fuckery sound,” which they hold so close. Smashing drums, deafening bass, roaring guitars and searing vocals were enjoyed by Wilson fans - from the world over, not just locals. Knowing this could very well be the final time, Wilson performed an unforgettable set that many would call sublime.

Thank You, Good Night. Live captures the show in all its glory and gives a taste to all those fans who could not attend. The energy, the attitude, the fuckery, and even the heartbreak are all visceral in this collection of 10 songs from the band’s last ever performance.

Thank You, Good Night. Live (NovelGoot) will be available at all DSPs on January 29, with pre-orders beginning January 15. The song “Dumptruck” is now available as the first release from the album. “Dumptruck” is a sonic punch to the face as it kicks in with gang vocals chanting, “This shit bumps, this shit fucks, this shit dumps like a dump truck.”

Knowing it was ambiguous if the band would continue after 2019, Wilson decided to play one last very special show in their hometown of Detroit, Michigan as a thank you to all of their longtime fans and supporters. Having all of the rooms at The Crofoot Ballroom in nearby Pontiac, MI at their disposal, the band held a pre-party for a limited number of fans in the Pike Room as well as a silent auction of Wilson lifeline items like backdrops, music video props and costumes, stage props, and even Chad’s beard which he had shaved off in 2016. All proceeds went to the charities Lighthouse Of Oakland County and MusiCares.

The sold-out 1200 capacity venue saw people attending from all over the US, as well as hosting fans from Sweden, Germany and the UK who dared not miss this once-in-a-lifetime event. For the band, the show was extremely emotional with the energy and anxiety going through the roof. With family, friends and fans new and old in attendance, the band roared through 19 songs from 2015’s Right To Rise and 2018’s Tasty Nasty albums, of which the band have curated their 10 favorites for this collection.

The room was loud with Wilson’s manic performance and approving roars from the audience. It had that ripe, but sweet smell that only a hall full of sweaty humans and a floor soaked with years of stale beer can create. “The emotion dripped from all of our eyes,” says lead singer Chad Nicefield. (Though that could’ve also come from the smell.)  They’ve captured all of that with this release, defining their legacy and cementing their place in the annals of Detroit Rock City history.

“I had the show recorded at the time for the purpose of us to listen back to it and hold that moment in our hands and minds forever,” says Nicefield. “I don’t think any of us had even thought about releasing a live record at that time. It wasn’t until our friend Josh Sobeck (one of our favorite live Sound Engineers) randomly sent me a mix of ‘Dumptruck’ he had put together that we imagined showing this moment to anyone else. Thankfully he did, though! One listen to that track and it was clear as could be...the fans deserve to own this moment with us. So, cheers to you all, the REAL Masters Of Ceremony! This one goes out to the house that Fuckery built! See you all again one day, maybe?”

To which Lloyd Christmas would say, “So you’re saying there’s a chance?”

In the meantime, while it is bittersweet that the band chose to end their decade long run as Wilson that night (for now, anyway), it is exciting and completely appropriate that they would gift their fans with one last full blast of their signature “fuckery sound,” and that is Thank You, Good Night. Live.

Tracklisting:

"Dumptruck"
"Wrong Side Of History"
"Give Em Hell"
"Windows Down!"
"Summertime Treat (Tasty Nasty)"
"The Flood"
"All My Friends"
"Fuck Up My High"
"Like A Baller"
"House Of Fuckery"

"Dumptruck":

Album Credits:

Produced by Josh Sobeck & Chad Nicefield
Recorded by Ryan Thomas at The Crofoot Ballroom
Edited by Chad Nicefield
Mixed by Josh Sobeck at Phoenix Productions
Mastered by Josh Sobeck at Phoenix Productions

(Photos - Jeffery Mullins)

Smackbound, the hard rock/metal band from the robust and acclaimed Finnish music scene, released their debut album, 20/20, via Frontiers Music Srl back in June. Watch a live performance video for "The Game" below:

Another performance clip, for "Drive It Like You Stole It", can be seen below:

The 20/20 album was recorded at Sonic Pump Studios, produced by Tuomas Yli-Jaskari mixed and mastered by Jesse Vainio (Sunrise Avenue, Apocalyptica, Poets Of The Fall).

Tracklisting:

"Wall Of Silence"
"Drive It Like You Stole It"
"Close To Sober"
"Run"
"The Game"
"Those Who Burn"
"Hey Motherfuckers"
"Troublemaker"
"Date With The Devil"
"Wind And Water"

"Run" video:

"Wall Of Silence" video:

"Close To Sober" video:

"Those Who Burn" lyric video:

"Drive It Like You Stole It" video:

"The Game" video:

Lineup:

Netta Laurenne - Vocals
Teemu Mäntysaari - Guitars
Rolf Pilve - Drums
Vili Itäpelto - Keyboards
Tuomas Yli-Jaskari - Bass