VIDEO: Metallica perform live debut of Confusion in China

photo: Jeff Yeager / Metallica

Metallica have released official live footage of the debut performance of the “Hardwired…To Self Destruct” track, “Confusion”, from a January 18 show at LeSports Center in Beijing, China.

The tune was one three tracks from the band’s latest album to make their first appearances in the setlist during the group’s recent series of shows across Asia, alongside the debuts of “Now That We’re Dead” and “Halo On Fire” at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, South Korea on January 11.

Metallica will next perform at the Grammy Awards in sync with their nomination for the project’s lead single, “Hardwired”, in the Best Rock Song category alongside tunes by David Bowie (“Blackstar”), Radiohead (“Burn The Witch”), Twenty-One Pilots (“Heathens”) and Highly Suspect (“My Name Is Human”).

“We have something very unique and special planned for this celebratory night,” says the band, “so tune in to watch.”

The 59th annual Grammy Awards will be broadcast live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles on February 12 on CBS-TV starting at 8:00 PM EST.

Following their Grammys performance, Metallica will play an exclusive concert for Citi card members at the Hollywood Palladium on the same night as part of the company’s “Sound Vault” series.


See also:

Metallica to play exclusive Hollywood show following Grammy Awards appearance
VIDEO: Metallica release performance with Lang Lang in Beijing
VIDEO: Metallica joined by concert pianist Lang Lang in Beijing
Metallica to perform at the Grammy Awards
Search Metallica at hennemusic

Asia vocalist John Wetton dead at 67

Asia vocalist and bassist John Wetton died today at the age of 67 following a three-year battle with colon cancer.

Wetton recently advised fans that was to undergo a new medical chemotherapy procedure that would sideline him from the group’s appearance on the upcoming Yes-hosted Cruise To The Edge event and the spring leg of a North American tour with Journey.

The bassist revealed that Billy Sherwood from Yes would step in to cover his duties on the pair of treks.

“It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I have to report we have lost my dearest friend, brother, bandmate and long term musical collaborator, John Wetton, who has passed away after a long and tenacious battle with cancer,” says Asia keyboardist Geoff Downes. “He will be remembered as one of the world’s finest musical talents, and I for one of many was wholly blessed by his influence. It was a massive privilege for me to have worked with this genius so closely on our numerous projects together over the years. His bass playing was revolutionary. His voice was from the gods. His compositions - out of this world. His sense of melody and harmony - unreal. He was literally a 'special one'.

“Life will not be the same without him,” he adds. “And words are not really enough to describe the loss I feel right now, and the many friends and fans all over the world will also be feeling. It is the end of an era for all of us. But we will soldier on - the music of John Wetton needs to be heard loud and clear from the rooftops. Dearest John, may you rest in peace brother.”

“With the passing of my good friend and musical collaborator, John Wetton, the world loses yet another musical giant,” says Asia drummer Carl Palmer. “John was a gentle person who created some of the most lasting melodies and lyrics in modern popular music. As a musician, he was both brave and innovative, with a voice that took the music of Asia to the top of the charts around the world.

“His ability to triumph over alcohol abuse made him an inspiration to many who have also fought that battle. For those of us who knew him and worked with him, his valiant struggle against cancer was a further inspiration. I will miss his talent, his sense of humor and his infectious smile. May you ride easy, my old friend.”

Wetton made a name for himself with several UK progressive rock bands before joining King Crimson in 1972. He was on board for three albums by the time the group disbanded in 1974, with the bassist next appearing on records by Bryan Ferry, Uriah Heep and Roxy Music.

Wetton reunited with King Crimson drummer Bill Bruford to form the supergroup UK with Eddie Jobson and Allan Holdsworth in 1977. Following a tour in support of their self-titled 1978 debut, Holdsworth was fired and Bruford exited, replaced by Frank Zappa drummer Terry Bozzio. 1979’s “Danger Money” was the trio’s final release before shutting things down in 1980.

The bassist formed supergroup Asia with Palmer and Yes members Downes and Steve Howe in 1981, immediately hitting it big with their 1982 self-titled debut - the biggest selling album in the world that year aided by the smash single “Heat Of The Moment.”

Wetton was an on-again/off-again member of Asia through the 1980s and 90s as he built a solo career while also working as a session musician before reuniting with the band in 2006 for four more records.


See also:

Journey extend North American tour with Asia
Asia vocalist John Wetton sidelined by cancer battle
Journey announces US tour and Las Vegas residency
VIDEO: Asia preview forthcoming live package
Search Asia at hennemusic

Metallica to play exclusive Hollywood show following Grammy Awards appearance

Metallica will perform at the Hollywood Palladium on February 12 following their appearance on the 59th annual Grammy Awards on the same night.

The exclusive concert for Citi card members adds another date to the group’s WorldWired tour in support of their current release, “Hardwired…To Self Destruct.”

“Why should the fun end after the cameras stop rolling?!!,” says the band. “As soon as the awards show is over, we’re going to shoot over to the iconic Hollywood Palladium to hit the stage one more time that evening as part of the “Citi Sound Vault” live music series.”

The Metallica event marks the fifth Citi Sound Vault show at the iconic Hollywood venue during Grammys week, following concerts by Sting (Feb 8/9), Beck (Feb 10) and The Chainsmokers (Feb 11).

Fifth Members can log in to the Metallica fan club site for a chance to win tickets, which will be available January 31st at 10:00 AM PST exclusively for cardmembers using their Citi credit or debit card via Livenation.com

The 59th annual Grammy Awards will be broadcast live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles on February 12 on CBS-TV starting at 8:00 PM EST.

Metallica recently wrapped up a series of dates in Asia and will next play four sold-out shows at the all-new Royal Arena in Copenhagen, Denmark between February 3 and 9.


See also:

VIDEO: Metallica release performance with Lang Lang in Beijing
VIDEO: Metallica joined by concert pianist Lang Lang in Beijing
Metallica to perform at the Grammy Awards
VIDEO: Metallica release live debut of Halo On Fire
Search Metallica at hennemusic

Black Star Riders release Heavy Fire lyric video

Black Star Riders have released a lyric video for the title track to their forthcoming third album, “Heavy Fire.”

"Only fools would believe that rock 'n' roll can rejuvenate a world in the throes of a collapsing civilization that's coming under heavy fire from all asunder,” says singer Ricky Warwick about the tune. “But what if the would-be fools are right?"”

Due February 3, “Heavy Fire” was recorded just outside Nashville, TN with producer Nick Raskulinecz (Rush, The Foo Fighters, Mastodon) in 2016.

The title tune is the third preview of the new package following the project’s lead single, “When The Night Comes In”, and follow-up “Testify Or Say Goodbye.”

“Heavy Fire” will be available via Limited Edition Digibook CD, CD, Vinyl, Vinyl Picture Disc and Digital download.

The band will launch the record with a tour of the UK and Ireland that begins in Cardiff, Wales on March 2.


See also:

VIDEO: Black Star Riders premiere Testify Or Say Goodbye
Black Star Riders stream lead single from Heavy Fire album
Black Star Riders: Ricky Warwick issues lyric video for solo album title track
VIDEO: Black Star Riders singer Ricky Warwick performs Psycho
Search Black Star Riders at hennemusic
Search Thin Lizzy at hennemusic

Steve Miller Band announces summer tour with Peter Frampton

The Steve Miller Band has announced dates for a summer tour of North America with Peter Frampton.

The 32-show run of mostly amphitheaters – with more concerts to be added – will launch in Holmdel, NJ on June 15 and is currently set to end in Murphys, CA on August 13.

"Peter and I first met at Olympic studios in London in the late Sixties when we were both just starting our recording careers,” says 2016 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame inductee Miller. “He was a wonderful guitarist and songwriter then and he is even more so today. He always sets the musical bar high, his band always knocks me out and I'm thrilled we are going to spend the summer together doing a great run of concerts. This is the kind of quality and talent we both strive to present and I'm looking forward to a summer of great music, exceptional performances and fun. Peter is remarkable musician."

"Steve Miller was in a recording studio vocal booth stacking incredible harmonies the first time we met in London, circa 1970," adds Frampton. "From that moment on, I have been a huge admirer of his multiple talents: singing, writing and of course his amazing guitar playing.

“Steve has already asked if I will come and jam on a few tunes during his set. ‘YES PLEASE!’ was my very quick answer! Music is all about having fun and playing from the heart. I can guarantee you much fun will be had by all on this tour. Can’t wait to get out there and do it again!!”

On sale dates for tickets to the 2017 tour vary by city, with some shows going on sale as early as February 3; check stevemillerband.com for further details.

The summer run follows a 2-week series of spring US dates by Miller in late March and early April.

Steve Miller Band / Peter Frampton
2017 North American tour

Jun 15 - Holmdel, NJ @ PNC Bank Arts Center
Jun 17 - Wantagh, NY @ Nikon at Jones Beach Theater
Jun 18 - Hunter, NY @ Mountain Jam Festival
Jun 20 - Toronto, ON @ Budweiser Stage
Jun 21 - Canandaigua, NY @ Constellation Brands Marvin PAC
Jun 23 - Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
Jun 24 - Mashantucket, CT @ The Grand Theater At Foxwoods Casino
Jun 25 - Gilford, NH @ Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion
Jun 27 - Philadelphia, PA @ Mann Center PAC
Jun 30 - Verona, NY @ Turning Stone Resort and Casino
Jul 01 - Sterling Heights, MI @ Michigan Lottery Theater at Freedom Hill
Jul 14 - Hollywood, FL @ Seminole Hard Rock Live
Jul 15 - Estero, FL @ Germain Arena
Jul 16 - Alpharetta, GA @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
Jul 18 - Rogers, AR @ Walmart Amphitheatre
Jul 19 - Kansas City, MO @ Starlight Theatre
Jul 20 - Aurora, IL @ River Edge Park
Jul 22 - Walker, MN @ Moondance Jam
Jul 23 - Welch, MN @ Treasure Island Resort & Casino
Jul 25 - Park City, KS @ Hartman Arena
Jul 28 - Tulsa, OK @ River Spirit Casino
Jul 29 - Thackerville, OK @ WinStar World Casino
Jul 31 - Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks
Aug 02 - Salt Lake City, UT @ USANA Amphitheatre
Aug 04 - Bend, OR @ Les Schwab Amphitheatre
Aug 05 - Auburn, WA @ White River Amphitheatre
Aug 06 - Troutdale, OR @ McMenamins Edgefield
Aug 08 - Las Vegas, NV @ The Colosseum at Caesars Palace
Aug 09 - Costa Mesa, CA @ Pacific Amphitheatre
Aug 10 - Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theatre
Aug 12 - Mountain View, CA @ Shoreline Amphitheatre
Aug 13 - Murphys, CA @ Ironstone Amphitheatre


See also:

Steve Miller and The Black Keys discuss fallout from Rock Hall induction
VIDEO: Steve Miller inducted into 2016 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame
Steve Miller Band announces North American tour
Steve Miller thrilled with 2016 Rock Hall induction
Search The Steve Miller Band at hennemusic

Deep Purple and Alice Cooper announce North American tour

Deep Purple and Alice Cooper are teaming up for a late summer tour of North America.

The co-headlining run of 19 cities across the continent – with special guest The Edgar Winter Band – will begin in Las Vegas, NV on August 12, with shows currently set to wrap up September 10 in Cincinnati, OH and more dates to be announced.

Deep Purple will be on the road on “The Long Goodbye” tour in support of their 2017 album, “InFinite”, which is due April 7. The set was recorded last year in Nashville, TN with legendary producer Bob Ezrin, and has been previewed with the lead single, “Time For Bedlam.”

Over the past year, Cooper has been working on an album project with Ezrin and the surviving members of the original Alice Cooper Band – Michael Bruce, Dennis Dunaway and Neal Smith; no further details or possible timetable for release have been announced to date.

An American Express card presale for the 2017 North American tour starts February 1 at noon local time, with a second presale opportunity via LiveNation.com, the Live Nation app and on Facebook begins February 2 at 10:00 a.m. local time.

General public tickets will be available February 3 at LiveNation.com and via the Live Nation app.

Deep Purple / Alice Cooper
2017 North American tour

Aug 12 – Las Vegas, NV - The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
Aug 13 – Los Angeles, CA - Greek Theatre
Aug 15 – Phoenix, AZ - Ak-Chin Pavilion
Aug 16 - Albuquerque, NM - Isleta Amphitheater
Aug 18 – Woodlands, TX - The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Aug 19 – Dallas, TX - Starplex Pavilion
Aug 23 – Bristow, VA - Jiffy Lube Live
Aug 24 – Camden, NJ - BB&T Pavilion
Aug 26 – Watagh, NY - Jones Beach Theater
Aug 27 – Mansfield, MA - Xfinity Center
Aug 28 – Holmdel, NJ - PNC Bank Arts Center
Aug 30 – Noblesville, IN - Klipsch Music Center
Sep 01 – Burgettstown, PA - KeyBank Pavilion
Sep 02 – Toronto, ON - Budweiser Stage
Sep 03 – Detroit, MI - DTE Energy Music Theatre
Sep 06 – Chicago, IL - Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
Sep 08 – St Louis, MO - Hollywood Casino
Sep 09 – Cleveland, OH - Blossom Music Center
Sep 10 – Cincinnati, OH - Riverbend Music Center


See also:

Deep Purple sue accountant after millions of dollars discovered missing
Deep Purple release new single Time For Bedlam
Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow announces UK tour
Deep Purple preview new album Infinite
Search Deep Purple at hennemusic
Search Rainbow at hennemusic

Cheap Trick tops the hennemusic Hot 10

photo: Jim Belmont / Front And Center

Cheap Trick tops this week’s hennemusic Hot 10.

The Rockford, IL band are among the artists featured in season 7 of the live series Front And Center, and video of their recently-premiered full performance on the program is now available at hennemusic.

Read all about it and check out the footage in this week’s top story!

The HH10 is a list of the most-viewed rock news stories in the past week by hennemusic readers.

For a full list of hennemusic Hot 10 charts, check out the archives here.


hennemusic Hot 10
week ending January 29, 2017

01 – VIDEO: Watch Cheap Trick perform on Front And Center
02 – Allman Brothers Band drummer’s death ruled a suicide
03 – Mott The Hoople bassist Pete Overend Watts dead at 69
04 – Allman Brothers Band drummer Butch Trucks dead at 69
05 – KISS frontman Paul Stanley suffers concussion in skiing incident
06 – Angus Young comments on future of AC/DC
07 – AUDIO: Ray Davies previews new album with lead single Poetry
08 – Fleetwood Mac to release expanded reissue of Tango In The Night
09 – David Bowie honored with UK Royal Mail stamp collection
10 – Alice In Chains recording new album


See also:

Jan 22: Def Leppard
Jan 15: Deep Purple
Jan 08: AC/DC
Jan 01: Metallica
Dec 25: Journey

David Lee Roth sued by landscaper over alleged dog attack

Van Halen frontman David Lee Roth is being sued by a landscaper over an alleged attack by his dog, according to TMZ.

The site reports landscaper Timothy Salinas says he was doing maintenance work in Roth's Pasadena, CA yard when the rocker's Australian Cattle dog suddenly attacked and took a chunk out of his lower left calf. Salinas says his boss told him he'd lose his job if he reported it.

Roth's lawyer, Ed McPherson, tells TMZ the issue is nothing more than a celebrity shakedown, pointing out that Salinas waited 47 days before going to the hospital and that the singer was only made aware of the alleged incident after the landscaper filed an insurance claim.

View photos of the alleged injuries at TMZ.com

Roth’s social media sites have remained silent since October following a blog post in late September when he asked for the public’s help in identifying a phone stalker that he claimed had been harassing him for several months.

Van Halen have been on an extended break following the end of a 2015 North American tour in support of “Tokyo Dome Live In Concert.”

Roth was recently named the No. 9 Rock News Artist Of The Year while Van Halen delivered the No. 6 Rock News Story Of The Year and claimed the No. 2 Rock News Artist of The Year title as part of the 2016 hennemusic Rock News Awards.


See also:

VIDEO: Eddie Van Halen shares support of Mr Holland’s Opus Foundation
David Lee Roth seeks public’s help identifying stalker
David Lee Roth talks real-life survival on The Roth Show
David Lee Roth takes on coffee and photography on The Roth Show
Search Van Halen at hennemusic

Former Black Sabbath keyboardist Geoff Nicholls dead at 68

Former Black Sabbath keyboardist Geoff Nicholls died Saturday at the age of 68 after a lengthy battle with lung cancer.

“I'm so saddened to hear the loss of one of my dearest and closest friends Geoff Nicholls,” posted Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi. “He's been suffering for a while now with lung cancer and he lost his battle this morning. Geoff and I have always been very close and he has been a real true friend to me and supported me all the way for nearly 40 years. I will miss him dearly and he will live in my heart until we meet again. Rest In Peace my dear friend.”

“Very sad to hear of old friend and Sabbath keyboard player Geoff Nicholls passing,” says Sabbath bassist Geezer Butler. “RIP Geoff.”

Nicholls joined the Sabbath lineup as a touring member in 1979, appearing on 1980’s “Heaven And Hell” – alongside new vocalist Ronnie James Dio – and the group’s following nine albums before being replaced in 2004 by Ozzy Osbourne’s keyboardist, Adam Wakeman.

Until his death, Nicholls performed with former Sabbath singer Tony Martin's Headless Cross.

“Saddened to hear of the passing of Geoff Nicholls,” posted Martin, “keyboard player and friend from Sabbath. Safe journey mate.”

Nicholls was an original member of Birmingham, UK outfit Quartz from 1974-79; Iommi produced the group’s self-titled 1977 debut.

“Everyone in the band, and associated with the band, are struggling to find the words to express their feelings and sadness regarding the passing of their dear friend Geoff Nicholls earlier this morning at home,” wrote Quartz. “Geoff had been unwell for a long time battling cancer and had under gone extensive radio and chemotherapy plus other trial treatment but all sadly to no avail in the end.

"In this darkest and lowest moment of time Geoff's lyrics and music speak volumes to us and for us and through these his memory will live on forever. Our deepest sympathies,thoughts and prayers go out to Gloria and her family as they try come to terms with their loss. RIP Geoff.”


See also:

VIDEO: Black Sabbath play final German concert in Cologne
Black Sabbath guitarist updates cancer status following surgery
AUDIO: Black Sabbath guitarist records with Birmingham Cathedral Choir
Rock News Story Of The Year No. 7: BLACK SABBATH
Search Black Sabbath at hennemusic

AUDIO: Judas Priest stream live track from 30th anniversary Turbo reissue

Judas Priest are streaming a live recording of “Rock You All Around The World” as a preview to the February 3 release of an expanded 30th anniversary reissue of their 1986 album, “Turbo.”

The tune is part of a recording of a May 1986 concert at the Kemper Arena in Kansas City, MO that is featured in the updated set, which also includes a remastered version of the original album.

“The ‘Fuel For Life’ tour certainly encapsulated the decadence of the times!,” says the band. “‘Turbo’ remastered and accompanied by a pedal to the metal live recording from Kansas reveals Priest on high octane – Raising fists and devil horns to the next level.”

“Turbo” peaked at No. 17 on the US Billboard 200 on its way to sales of more than 1 million in the country.

The expanded 30th anniversary reissue will be available as a 3CD set, LP and via digital download.

“Rock You All Around The World” is the third preview of the package, following live versions of “Out In The Cold” and “Locked In.”

Judas Priest are currently working on the follow-up to 2014’s “Redeemer Of Souls” with plans to release a new album this year before returning to the road in 2018.


See also:

AUDIO: Judas Priest stream live Locked In from 30th anniversary Turbo reissue
AUDIO: Judas Priest preview 1986 concert from 30th anniversary Turbo reissue
Judas Priest announce 30th anniversary Turbo reissue
Judas Priest share new album update
Search Judas Priest at hennemusic

AUDIO: Mastodon stream new single Sultan’s Cruse

Mastodon are streaming “Sultan’s Curse” as the lead single from their forthcoming album, “Emperor Of Sand.”

Due March 31, thee group’s seventh release was recorded with producer Brendan O’Brien at the Quarry in Kennesaw, Georgia last year.

"'Emperor of sand' is like the grim reaper," says drummer/vocalist Brann Dailor. "Sand represents time. If you or anyone you know has ever received a terminal diagnosis, the first thought is about time. Invariably, you ask, 'How much time is left?'"

Bassist/vocalist Troy Sanders’ wife, Jeza, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015.

"We're reflecting on mortality," reflects Sanders. "To that end, the album ties into our entire discography. It's 17 years in the making, but it's also a direct reaction to the last two years. We tend to draw inspiration from very real things in our lives."

Mastodon will launch “Emperor Of Sand” with a spring tour of North America; the 6-week run with Eagles Of Death Metal and Russian Circles will begin in Missoula, MT on April 14.


Mastodon
“Emperor Of Sand”
Release date: March 31

01. Sultan's Curse
02. Show Yourself
03. Precious Stones
04. Steambreather
05. Roots Remain
06. Word To The Wise
07. Ancient Kingdom
08. Clandestiny
09. Andromeda
10. Scorpion Breath
11. Jaguar God


See also:

Mastodon announce seventh album Emperor Of Sand
VIDEO: Mastodon preview new album
Mastodon announce North American tour
Mastodon bassist reveals wife’s breast cancer diagnosis
Search Mastodon at hennemusic

Chickenfoot compilation to include new song Divine Termination

Chickenfoot will release the compilation, “Best + Live” – featuring the band's first new tune in 5 years, “Divine Termination” – on March 10.

The two-disc package delivers a best-of collection from the supergroup’s two studio albums alongside audio from a 2009 concert in Phoenix, AZ originally only available as video on the 2010 DVD/Blu-ray "Get Your Buzz On."

Chickenfoot debuted “Divine Termination” last spring during the band's two reunion shows at Harrah's Lake Tahoe (watch video below).

The May 7 & 8 concerts marked the first time in years that Sammy Hagar, guitarist Joe Satriani, bassist Michael Anthony and drummer Chad Smith had regrouped to perform a full show.

The outfit last toured in 2012 in support of their second album, “Chickenfoot III.”

"Listening to this collection of songs from the ‘Foot brings back memories of some of the most fun I've ever had in a band,” says Hagar. “The chemistry between Chad, Joe, Mike and me is very special. It's almost like visual music -- you can see us having fun when you listen to these songs."

Hagar was recently named the No. 10 Rock News Artist Of The Year as part of the 2016 hennemusic Rock News Awards.


Chickenfoot
"Best + Live"
Release date: March 10

CD1 – Best Of

01. Divine Termination (brand new song)
02. Soap On A Rope
03. Sexy Little Thing
04. Oh Yeah
05. Get It Up
06. Future In The Past
07. Big Foot
08. Different Devil
09. Lighten Up
10. Dubai Blues
11. Something Going Wrong

Bonus Live Tracks

12. Highway Star
13. Bad Motor Scooter
14. My Generation

CD2 - Live - Phoenix,AZ 2009

01. Avenida Revolution
02. Sexy Little Thing
03. Soap On A Rope
04. My Kinda Girl
05. Down The Drain
06. Bitten By The Wolf
07. Oh Yeah
08. Learning To Fall
09. Get It Up
10. Turnin' Left
11. Future In The Past


See also:

Sammy Hagar to release new compilation this week
Sammy Hagar apologizes to Van Halen
VIDEO: Sammy Hagar and Kenny Chesney rock I Can’t Drive 55
VIDEO: Sammy Hagar previews summer tour with The Circle
Search Sammy Hagar at hennemusic

Allman Brothers Band drummer’s death ruled a suicide

The death of 69-year old Allman Brothers Band drummer Butch Trucks at his home in West Palm Beach on January 24 was a suicide, according to police records.

The Miami Herald reports the records show Trucks shot himself in the head with a pistol as his wife of 25 years – painter Melinda Trucks – stood near him and witnessed the incident in their downtown condo.

The media outlet has reviewed the transcripts of a frantic 911 call Melinda made to West Palm Beach Police about 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, telling the dispatcher her “husband just shot himself” with a pistol.

The drummer was still breathing when police arrived at the residence but passed away on site soon after.

The Palm Beach County Medical Examiner’s Office performed an autopsy Wednesday, but the results won’t be known for weeks.

The Daily Mail suggests financial problems may have been a possible motive for Trucks to end his life.

According to Palm Beach County court records, the drummer appeared to be wrestling with financial issues in recent years.

In 2011, Trucks sold his Palm Beach home for $2 million - when it was possibly worth twice as much - to pay off a $800,000 mortgage that a bank was trying to foreclose on.

In 2014, Trucks and his wife spent $500,000 on the condo where he shot himself and, last year, the IRS filed two liens against the property to force the musician to pay additional taxes for 2013 and 2014 for a total of more than $540,000.

“The Trucks and Allman Brothers Band families request all of Butch’s friends and fans to please respect our privacy at this time of sadness for our loss,” announced the group on Wednesday. “Butch will play on in our hearts forever.”

Donations and remembrances in Trucks’ name may be made to The Big House Museum in Macon, GA.

Trucks cofounded the Allman Brothers Band with Gregg and Duane Allman in his hometown of Jacksonville, FL in 1969, and remained a vital member for 45 years; the group performed its final show on October 28, 2014 at the Beacon Theater in New York City.

Watch “Statesboro Blues” from the band’s final concert, below.


See also:

Allman Brothers Band drummer Butch Trucks dead at 69
Gregg Allman cancels remaining 2016 concert dates
Gregg Allman issues health status update
Gregg Allman cancels tour after being hospitalized with serious health issues
Search The Allman Brothers at hennemusic

Mastodon announce seventh album Emperor Of Sand

Atlanta rockers Mastodon will release their seventh album, “Emperor Of Sand”, on March 31, according to a listing in Apple's iTunes store in Australia.

The 11-track project was recorded at the Quarry in Kennesaw, Georgia with producer Brendan O’Brien.

The band shared a series of cryptic video teasers for the album this past week with one featuring vocalist/guitarist Brent Hinds discussing how he spent a month inside the moon recording his guitar parts for the follow-up to 2014's "Once More 'Round The Sun."

“I’m glad I did it,” says Hinds. “Certain guitar tones we got up there I wouldn’t have gotten anywhere else. I just couldn’t believe I was inside the moon the entire time. We weren’t on it – we couldn’t get the permits for being on it – we had to go in it.”

The band have just launched a website with a 360-degree view of the cover artwork and a snippet of audio of the lead track, "Sultan's Curse."

Mastodon will launch “Emperor Of Sand” with a spring tour of North America; the 6-week run with Eagles Of Death Metal and Russian Circles will begin in Missoula, MT on April 14.

Mastodon
“Emperor Of Sand”
Release date: March 31

01. Sultan's Curse
02. Show Yourself
03. Precious Stones
04. Steambreather
05. Roots Remain
06. Word To The Wise
07. Ancient Kingdom
08. Clandestiny
09. Andromeda
10. Scorpion Breath
11. Jaguar God


See also:

VIDEO: Mastodon preview new album
Mastodon announce North American tour
Mastodon bassist reveals wife’s breast cancer diagnosis
Mastodon join Judas Priest for fall North American tour
Search Mastodon at hennemusic

Queen and Adam Lambert announce North American tour

Queen and Adam Lambert have announced dates for a summer tour of North America.

The 7-week, 25-city arena run will begin in Phoenix, AZ on June 23, with shows wrapping up in Houston, TX on August 5.

The group’s first concerts on the continent in three years follow a successful 2016 that saw the pairing perform in Europe and throughout Asia.

Members of both Queen and Adam Lambert's Fan Clubs will be able to purchase tickets in a presale beginning January 31 at 10 AM, and American Express Card Members can purchase tickets in advance starting January 31 at Noon and ending on Thursday, February 2 at 10PM.

General public tickets will go on sale February 3 at 10AM local time through the Live Nation mobile app and at Livenation.com.

The tour announcement follows last month’s Japan-exclusive release of Queen and Adam Lambert’s “Live In Japan.”

The multi-format project captures the band's headline performance at the country's largest rock festival, Summer Sonic, on August 17, 2014 at Chiba’s Marine Stadium.

Queen + Adam Lambert
2017 North American tour

Jun 23 - Phoenix, AZ @ Gila River Arena
Jun 24 - Las Vegas, NV @ T-Mobile Arena
Jun 26 - Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
Jun 29 - San Jose, CA @ SAP Center
Jul 01 - Seattle, WA @ Key Arena
Jul 02 - Vancouver, BC @ Pepsi Live at Rogers Arena
Jul 04 - Edmonton, AB @ Rogers Place
Jul 06 - Denver, CO @ Pepsi Center Arena
Jul 08 - Omaha, NE @ CenturyLink Center
Jul 09 - Kansas City, MO @ Sprint Center
Jul 13 - Chicago, IL @ United Center
Jul 14 - St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center
Jul 17 - Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre
Jul 18 - Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre
Jul 20 - Detroit, MI @ The Palace of Auburn Hills
Jul 21 - Cleveland, OH @ Quicken Loans Arena
Jul 23 - Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun Arena
Jul 25 - Boston, MA @ TD Garden
Jul 26 - Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center
Jul 28 - New York, NY @ Barclays Center
Jul 30 - Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center
Jul 31 - Washington D.C. @ Verizon Center
Aug 02 - Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena
Aug 04 - Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center
Aug 05 - Houston, TX @ Toyota Center


See also:

Brian May to publish Queen In 3D photo book
VIDEO: Queen and Adam Lambert preview Live In Japan DVD
Queen issue My Fairy King from BBC Sessions package
Queen premiere fast version of We Will Rock You from BBC sessions
Search Queen at hennemusic

KISS frontman Paul Stanley suffers concussion in skiing incident

KISS frontman Paul Stanley has postponed an upcoming series of shows by his R&B side project Soul Station while he continues to recover from a concussion he sustained in a January 15 skiing incident.

"I went skiing today and got something I never expected…A concussion!,” posted Stanley following the accident. “OW!!!!! Lucky though…"

On Wednesday, the rocker updated fans on his condition while announcing news of the show postponements.

"My apologies,” writes Stanley on social media. “Recovery from concussion will take a bit longer. I am postponing all four California Soul Station shows Feb. 1-4. So sorry."

The affected dates include appearances at The Rose in Pasadena, CA (Feb 1), the Coach House Concert Hall in San Juan Capistrano, CA (Feb 2), Belly Up in Solana Beach, CA (Feb 3) and at The Canyon in Agoura Hills, CA (Feb 4).

Stanley and KISS are next scheduled to perform in Thackerville, OK on February 24; they’ll play a pair of US shows in late April before launching a European tour in Moscow, Russia on May 1.

I went skiing today and got something I never expected... A concussion! OW!!!!! Lucky though...

— Paul Stanley (@PaulStanleyLive) January 16, 2017

MY APOLOGIES. Recovery from concussion will take a bit longer. I am postponing ALL FOUR California Soul Station shows Feb. 1-4. So sorry. pic.twitter.com/Pb70bc8Xva

— Paul Stanley (@PaulStanleyLive) January 25, 2017

See also:

KISS announce European tour
VIDEO: KISS stream Detroit Rock City from KISS Rocks Vegas
VIDEO: KISS stream Rock And Roll All Nite from KISS Rocks Vegas
KISS to launch new comic book series
Search KISS at hennemusic

VIDEO: Watch Cheap Trick perform on Front And Center

photo: Jim Belmont / Front And Center

Cheap Trick are among the artists featured in season 7 of the live series Front And Center, and video of their recently-premiered full performance on the program is now available.

The Rockford, IL outfit were recorded in concert at the Melrose Ballroom in New York on April 10, 2016 – just days after being inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.

The band’s full show was edited for the hour-long episode, which features a mix of classics and tracks from their first new album in five years, 2016’s “Bang Zoom Crazy…Hello.”

Airing on PBS and other media outlets, season 7 of Front And Center also delivers performances by Rob Thomas, Steve Vai, Southside Johnny, Dawes and others.

“It feels incredible to bring Front and Center back for a seventh season,” says Executive Producer Don Maggi. “We had the privilege of working with a dynamic group of artists to give fans new insight on the creative process of some of their favorite musicians.”

Full series details are available at frontandcenter.com

Cheap Trick are currently playing dates across the US and will join Foreigner on their 40th anniversary tour of North America this summer.

Cheap Trick recently delivered the No. 5 Rock News Story Of The Year as part of the 2016 hennemusic Rock News Awards.


See also:

AUDIO: Cheap Trick drummer Bun E. Carlos covers Paul Revere & The Raiders classic
VIDEO: Cheap Trick performs on Audience Network concert series
AUDIO: Cheap Trick drummer Bun E. Carlos previews solo album debut
VIDEO: Cheap Trick inducted into 2016 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame
Search Cheap Trick at hennemusic

David Bowie honored with UK Royal Mail stamp collection

David Bowie will be honored this spring with a collection of stamps from UK’s Royal Mail.

The set of 10 – featuring a mix of albums covers and live images – marks the first time the Royal Mail has dedicated an entire stamp issue to an individual music artist or cultural figure.

The only other music artists to have been honoured with a dedicated stamp issue are groups, including The Beatles in 2010 and Pink Floyd in 2015.

Six of the stamps showcase Bowie’s changing musical styles and personas across the decades and feature images of some of his most-admired and defining album covers: “Hunky Dory”, “Aladdin Sane”, "Heroes", “Let’s Dance”, “Earthling” and “Blackstar.”

Four stamps feature Bowie performing live on tours across four decades: 1973’s The Ziggy Stardust Tour, 1978’s The Stage Tour, 1983’s The Serious Moonlight Tour, and 2004’s A Reality Tour.

“For five decades,” says Royal Mail stamp Strategy Manager Philip Parker, “David Bowie was at the forefront of contemporary culture, and has influenced successive generations of musicians, artists, designers and writers. Royal Mail’s stamp issue celebrates this unique figure and some of his many celebrated personas.”

The stamps and a range of limited edition souvenirs are available to pre-order now at www.royalmail.com ahead of their official release on March 14 online and at 7,000 Post Office branches across the UK.

Bowie passed away in New York on January 10, 2016 at the age of 69 following an 18-month battle with liver cancer.

The music icon sold an estimated 140 million albums worldwide and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996.



See also:

Family tributes mark first anniversary of David Bowie’s death
David Bowie’s widow Iman posts tributes to late husband on his 70th birthday
David Bowie’s final recordings issued on his 70th birthday
David Bowie leads UK vinyl sales to 25-year high
Search David Bowie at hennemusic

Fleetwood Mac to release expanded reissue of Tango In The Night

Fleetwood Mac will release an expanded version of their 1987 album, “Tango In The Night”, on March 10.

The group’s 14th studio album, “Tango In The Night” peaked at No. 7 on the US Billboard 200 on its way to sales of more than 3 million copies in the country and 15 million worldwide. The set features six singles, including the US Top 5 hits “Big Love” and “Little Lies.”

The album currently stands as the final studio release by the band's most successful line-up of Lindsey Buckingham, Stevie Nicks, Christine McVie, John McVie and Mick Fleetwood.

Part of the group’s ongoing reissue series, the remastered 30th anniversary project will be available digitally and as a single CD, a double CD with rare and unreleased recordings, and a 3-CD Deluxe Edition that adds a 180-gram LP, a disc of remixes and a DVD of videos and a high-resolution version of the album.

13 rare recordings from the era include the alternate version of “Mystified,” a demo for the album’s title song, plus the rare b-sides “Down Endless Street” and “Ricky.”

Among the more than a dozen 12” remixes are dub versions of “Seven Wonders” and “Everywhere”, plus an extended version of “Little Lies” by John “Jellybean” Benitez.

A full track listing for the Deluxe Edition can be found below.

Nicks recently extended a 2016 North American tour with The Pretenders into this year with the addition of 20 new shows; the trek resumes in Reno, NV on February 23.

Buckingham and McVie will release an album of duets, “Buckingham McVie”, later this spring.


Fleetwood Mac
“Tango In The Night” Reissue (Deluxe Edition)
Release date: March 10

Disc One: Original Album - 2017 Remaster

01. "Big Love"
02. "Seven Wonders"
03. "Everywhere"
04. "Caroline"
05. "Tango In The Night"
06. "Mystified"
07. "Little Lies"
08. "Family Man"
09. "Welcome To The Room... Sara"
10. "Isn't It Midnight"
11. "When I See You Again"
12. "You And I, Part II"

Disc Two: B-Sides, Outtakes, Sessions

01. "Down Endless Street"
02. "Special Kind Of Love" (Demo)*
03. "Seven Wonders" (Early Version)*
04. "Tango In The Night" (Demo)*
05. "Mystified" (Alternate Version)*
06. "Book Of Miracles" (Instrumental)
07. "Where We Belong" (Demo)*
08. "Ricky"
09. "Juliet" (Run-Through)*
10. "Isn't It Midnight" (Alternate Mix)*
11. "Ooh My Love" (Demo)*
12. "Mystified" (Instrumental Demo)*
13. "You And I, Part I & II" (Full Version)*

*Previously Unreleased

Disc Three: The 12" Mixes

01. "Big Love" (Extended Remix)
02. "Big Love" (House On The Hill Dub)
03. "Big Love" (Piano Dub)
04. "Big Love" (Remix/Edit)
05. "Seven Wonders" (Extended Version)
06. "Seven Wonders" (Dub)
07. "Little Lies" (Extended Version)
08. "Little Lies" (Dub)
09. "Family Man" (Extended Vocal Remix)
10. "Family Man" (I'm A Jazz Man Dub)
11. "Family Man" (Extended Guitar Version)
12. "Family Party" (Bonus Beats)
13. "Everywhere" (12" Version)
14. "Everywhere" (Dub)

Disc Four: The Videos (DVD)

1. "Big Love"
2. "Seven Wonders"
3. "Little Lies"
4. "Family Man"
5. "Everywhere"

(Plus a High-Resolution Stereo Mix of the Original Album)


See also:

Stevie Nicks extends North American tour with The Pretenders
AUDIO: Stevie Nicks streams Bella Donna demo
Stevie Nicks to release expanded reissues of Bella Donna and The Wild Heart
Search Stevie Nicks at hennemusic
Search Fleetwood Mac at hennemusic

Allman Brothers Band drummer Butch Trucks dead at 69

Allman Brothers Band drummer and founding member Butch Trucks died Tuesday in West Palm Beach, FL at the age of 69.

While the cause of his death has yet to be confirmed, Trucks is survived by his wife, four children and four grandchildren.

“The Trucks and Allman Brothers Band families request all of Butch’s friends and fans to please respect our privacy at this time of sadness for our loss,” announced the group. “Butch will play on in our hearts forever.”

Donations and remembrances in Butch’s name may be made to The Big House Museum in Macon, GA.

"I'm heartbroken,” says Gregg Allman. “I've lost another brother and it hurts beyond words. Butch and I knew each other since we were teenagers and we were bandmates for over 45 years. He was a great man and a great drummer and I'm going to miss him forever. Rest In Peace Brother Butch."

Trucks crossed paths with Gregg and Duane Allman in the mid-1960s before helping them form The Allman Brothers Band in his hometown of Jacksonville, FL with guitarist Dickey Betts, bassist Berry Oakley and fellow drummer Jai Johanny Johanson in 1969, the same year they would release their self-titled debut.

The dual drummer lineup thrived on improvisation in concert in an effort to expand compositions into uncharted waters and new heights. The group’s legendary reputation was cemented through constant touring and the release of 1971’s double live set, “At Fillmore East”, which became their commercial breakthrough when it peaked at No. 13 on Billboard's Top Pop Albums chart.

The Allman Brothers Band persevered through the tragic motorcycle deaths of Duane and Oakley in Macon, GA in 1971 and 1972, respectively.

Three break-ups and several lineup changes would follow through the years, including the addition of guitarist and Trucks’ nephew, Derek, in 1999.

“Rest in Peace Uncle Butch,” tweeted Derek on Wednesday along with a photo of the two in rehearsal.

After 45 years together, The Allman Brothers Band performed its final show on October 28, 2014 at the Beacon Theater in New York City.

In recent years, Trucks would continue to perform under his own name while occasionally teaming up with members of his former band.

Rest in Peace Uncle Butch pic.twitter.com/AkGOmG4j52

— Tedeschi Trucks Band (@DerekAndSusan) January 25, 2017

See also:

Gregg Allman cancels remaining 2016 concert dates
Gregg Allman issues health status update
Gregg Allman cancels tour after being hospitalized with serious health issues
Allman Brothers Band to reissue classic albums on vinyl
Search The Allman Brothers at hennemusic

Journey extend North American tour with Asia

Journey have extended their North American tour with Asia with the addition of six weeks of shows this summer.

Following a recently-announced three-week run this spring, the pairing will regroup for summer concerts starting June 2 in Durant, OK and wrapping up in El Paso, TX on July 15.

A variety of presale tickets are available now with general public tickets available January 27 at 10:00 AM local time via Ticketmaster.

Asia vocalist and bassist John Wetton has confirmed that he’ll miss the spring Journey tour dates as he continues treatment in his three-year battle with cancer; Billy Sherwood from Yes will step in to cover his duties while fans await word on Wetton’s health status in the hopes he may return for the summer dates.

In between the spring and summer runs with Asia, Journey will be inducted into the 2017 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in April alongside Pearl Jam, Yes, Electric Light Orchestra, Joan Baez and Tupac Shakur.

The band will also return to The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas for a nine-show residency entitled “Journey Las Vegas” in May.

The shows will see Journey perform its seventh studio album, 1981’s “Escape”, and their eighth studio album, 1983’s “Frontiers”, in their entirety on select dates during the Vegas appearance.

Journey and Asia
Spring 2017 North American Tour

Mar 15 - Yakima, WA - Yakima Valley SunDome
Mar 16 - Spokane, WA - Spokane Arena
Mar 18 - Eugene, OR - Matthew Knight Arena
Mar 20 - Boise, ID - Taco Bell Arena
Mar 21 - Bozeman, MT - Brick Breeden Fieldhouse
Mar 24 - Fargo, ND – Fargodome
Mar 25 – Lincoln, NE - Pinnacle Bank Arena
Mar 27 - Green Bay, WI - Resch Center
Mar 28 - Madison, WI - Alliant Energy Center
Mar 31 - Fort Wayne, IN - Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
Apr 01 - Evansville, IN - Ford Center
Apr 03 - Moline, IL - iWireless Center
Apr 04 - Dayton, OH - Nutter Center
Apr 07 – New York, NY – Barclays Center

Journey
2017 residency
The Joint at The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas

May 03 / 05 / 06 / 10 / 12 / 13 / 17 / 19 / 20

Journey and Asia
Summer 2017 North American Tour

Jun 02 - Durant, OK - Choctaw Grand Theater **
Jun 03 - Durant, OK - Choctaw Grand Theater **
Jun 05 - Tulsa, OK - BOK Center **
Jun 07 - Tupelo, MS - BancorpSouth Arena **
Jun 09 - New Orleans, LA - Smoothie King Center **
Jun 11 - Greenville, SC - Bon Secours Wellness Arena **
Jun 12 - Greensboro, NC - Greensboro Coliseum Complex **
Jun 14 - Baltimore, MD - Royal Farms Arena **
Jun 16 - Uncasville, CT - Mohegan Sun Arena **
Jun 17 - Atlantic City, NJ - Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa Event Center **
Jun 19 - Worcester, MA - DCU Center **
Jun 21 - Rochester, NY - Blue Cross Arena **
Jun 22 - Windsor, ON - Caesars Windsor The Colosseum **
Jun 24 - Mount Pleasant, MI - Soaring Eagle Amphitheatre **
Jun 25 - Toledo, OH - Huntington Center **
Jun 27 - Huntington, WV - Big Sandy Superstore Arena **
Jun 28 - Louisville, KY - KFC Yum! Center **
Jun 30 - Sioux City, IA - Hard Rock Hotel & Casino **
Jul 01 - Welch, MN - Treasure Island Resort & Casino **
Jul 03 - Springfield, MO - JQH Arena **
Jul 05 - Southaven, MS - BankPlus Amphitheater At Snowden Grove **
Jul 06 - Orange Beach, AL - The Wharf Amphitheater **
Jul 08 - Pelham, AL - Oak Mountain Amphitheatre **
Jul 09 - Bossier City, LA - CenturyLink Center **
Jul 12 - Sugar Land, TX - Smart Financial Centre At Sugar Land **
Jul 13 - Laredo, TX - Laredo Energy Arena **
Jul 15 - El Paso, TX - UTEP Don Haskins Center **

** new adds


See also:

Journey comment on possible Steve Perry reunion at Rock Hall induction
Journey announces US tour and Las Vegas residency
VIDEO: Journey preview Separate Ways from Live In Manila package
Journey to release expanded Live In Manila package
Search Journey at hennemusic

Alice In Chains recording new album

Alice In Chains bassist Mike Inez has confirmed the Seattle band are in the studio recording the follow-up to 2013’s “The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here.”

"Today I'm leaving this studio and going to another studio, and I'm gonna make a bunch of racket," Inez tells Framus & Warwick. “Yeah, we're hard at work. We're always doing something — I mean, it's just what we do. We just play, and usually everything else will come together.

"We used to worry about the label, or the management,” he continues. “The band has turned into a… It's a business, you know, and there's a lot going on [with the] business. So when we go into these studios, this is kind of like our clubhouse, this is the place that we go, and we try not to make this business. This is fun, and we try to make our work environment fun for each other."

"Being in the studio for twenty hours a day isn't fun, but it's a great job,” adds Inez. “But we try to make that our clubhouse and separate that from the business, kind of. So we're still in that… playing in the sandbox, kind of, for this new record anyways. We're still getting together in the same city, and plugging in in the same room. Today is actually our first day, and I'm already late, 'cause I'm here talking to you [laughs], so it shows you how professional we still are."

“The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here” debuted at No. 2 on the US Billboard 200 upon its release in 2013.

The band’s fifth studio album yielded three singles and four videos, including “Hollow”, “Stone”, “Voices” and the title track.


See also:

Alice In Chains singer talks about meeting Axl Rose
Alice In Chains expand US tour
Alice In Chains announce North American tour
Alice In Chains to join Guns N’ Roses for reunion tour launch
Search Alice In Chains at hennemusic

Green Day expand tour of Australia and New Zealand

Green Day have expanded their upcoming tour of Australia and New Zealand with the addition of three new shows due to overwhelming demand.

The band have announced second and final dates in Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland following sell-outs in each market as part of the trek in support of their current album, “Revolution Radio.”

A presale for Frontier Members begins on February 2, while general public seats will go on sale February 7.

Green Day have also confirmed that the Los Angeles ska punk band The Interrupters will open all shows on the two-week run.

The group are currently playing dates on a European arena tour that began in Turin, Italy on January 10; the month-long series will wrap up in London, UK in early February.

Green Day will launch a spring trek across North America, with guests Against Me!, in Phoenix, AZ on March 1; they’ll return to play a recently-announced summer tour that begins in Auburn, WA on August 1.

Green Day
Revolution Radio tour 2017
Australia/New Zealand

Apr 30 – Perth, AU – Perth Arena
May 03 – Adelaide, AU – Adelaide Entertainment Centre
May 05 – Melbourne, AU – Rod Laver Arena
May 06 – Melbourne, AU – Rod Laver Arena **
May 08 – Brisbane, AU – Brisbane Entertainment Centre
May 10 – Sydney, AU – Qudos Bank Arena
May 11 – Sydney, AU – Qudos Bank Arena **
May 13 – Auckland, NZ – Vector Arena
May 14 – Auckland, NZ – Vector Arena **

** new add


See also:

Green Day announce North American summer tour
VIDEO: Green Day rock The Late Late Show with James Corden
VIDEO: Green Day perform on Jimmy Kimmel Live
Green Day release Still Breathing video
Search Green Day at hennemusic