Weekly Update – 09/26/2008

Smashing Pumpkins at United Palace on Thurs. & Fri. Nov. 6 and 7. At the Borgota in Atlantic City on Sat. Nov. 8 and at Mohegan Sun on Sun. Nov. 16. Pre-sale for American Express cardholders go on sale tomorrow Sat. Sept. 27 at 10:00 a.m. until Fri. Rocktober 3 at 10:00 p.m. General public on sale next Sat. Rocktober 4 at 10:00 a.m.$49 – $89.

The Killers at Hammerstein Ballroom on Fri. Rocktober 24. Tickets on sale tomorrow at 10:00 a.m.  $45.50.

Usher at Hammerstein Ballroom on Mon. Nov. 3. Tickets on sale tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. $62.50 – $102.

Yes at Hammerstein Ballroom on Fri. Nov. 14. Tickets on sale tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. $83 – $123.

Puddle of Mudd at Highline Ballroom on Sun. Nov. 16. Tickets on sale today at noon.

Hall & Oates at the Mohegan Sun on Wed. Dec. 31. Tickets on sale Fri. Rocktober 17.

Other items:

TV on The Radio has a new album out called “Dear Science” and it is getting rave reviews. I-Tune listeners give it a 4.5 star rating (out of 5) and Rollingstone Magazine gave it a 4 star rating. From what has been written about this album it appears that this band continually redefines itself and many folks are saying there is no other band out today like them.The most popular downloaded song from this album is “Dancing Choose.” From the 30 second preview, it sounds pretty good. I myself need to give them a few more turns and then maybe it will click.

Speaking of Rolling Stone Magazine- did you see who is on the cover this week? That’s right Metallica– (you knew I was going to get them in again on the update) and the article is very cool. Pick it up at a newsstand near you.

I am so bummed I missed Weezer at the Garden this week- I heard the show was top notch- Have you picked up the Red album yet? What are you waiting for? “The Angel and The One” is such a phenomenal song. Buy it now!!!

Did you hear the nice story of how the band, Rush, made someone’s wish come true. With the help of the Make A Wish Foundation, a 16-year old girl from Georgia who has been diagnosed with cancer, was able to meet her favorite band, backstage at a July 20 show in Charlotte, N.C. The one song performed “Hope” really touched her and her cancer is now in remission. I applaud the boys from Rush-nice job!!

Been listening a lot to Tom Petty lately and my favorite song of the week is “Ankle Deep” from his Highway Companion CD. This album has pretty much gone un-noticed (but not by his fan base) because there really is no outlet on the radio for this. Funny how things are- you can’t find a way to play greatness on the air but a lot of crap gets airtime.

Chris Cornell is getting a lot of heat for teaming up with the hottest producer these days, Timbaland, and he is putting out a new album, Scream, on Nov. 4. It is a dramatic change for the former lead singer of Soundgarden and Audioslave and the reaction has been vile. Hey calm down already give it a chance. I give him credit for trying something else. He has also co-written David Cook’s first single to be released- “Light On.” It’s his “pop” side. Ease up people.

The Kings of Leon have new album out- “Only By the Night”- and it has received an average rating of 4 stars from I-Tune listeners. “Use Somebody” seems to be the most popular download.

My favorite “old school” song of the week is “I Write The Songs” by Barry Manilow. Yes there I said it- Barry Manilow. Now don’t give me any grief- you know there is at least one song by him that you love. I actually have many of his songs in my music library and am not ashamed to admit it. This guy has his place in music history and it can’t be denied.

My other “old school” song of the week is the freaking phenomenal “I’m Your Captain/Closer to Home” by Grand Funk Railroad. My boys run out of the room when they hear it because they can not stand how long the song is but I love it, especially the sound of the ocean and the way it slows down. “Am I in my cabin dreaming…” C’mon top this song? “I’m getting closer to my home…” Very underrated band and it annoys me to no end. These guys in their prime were “the bomb.”

Akon has a new single “Right Now (Na Na Na) and I have to say I like it. Should be a hit real soon.

Kenny Chesney has released a new single “Nowhere to Go, Nowhere to Be” and I like this one as well.

Kayne West is taking a lot of criticism from I-Tune listeners on the release of his new single “Love Lockdown.” It has only received an average rating of 3.5 stars from almost 2,000 reviews. Not good for the self proclaimed best rapper out today.

“Do What You Do” is the hard rocking single released by Mudvayne this week. Sounds real good, check it out!!

Ok this week’s I-Tune shuffle landed on “Another Rainy Night (Without You)” by Queensryche from their 1990 release of “Empire.” So you know I had to go back and listen to the whole album and what a classic it is. Now I know many Queensryche fans will state that “Operation Mindcrime” is their best and I acknowledge the greatness of that album but for me- “Empire” is my favorite of the boys from Bellvue, Washington. Don’t kid yourself about this band- they have sold over 20 million albums worldwide, including over 11 million in the U.S. Now Empire was their fifth studio album and sold over 3 million in the U.S.- aided by the ballad “Silent Lucidity” which was backed by a full orchestra.

Empire starts off with “Best I Can” and I remember when I first heard this song- I was immediately hooked. Now I know for some out there- Geoff Tate’s vocals may be an acquired taste- but again for me he shines brightly on this song and the whole album for that matter. The song was written by the now departed Chris DeGarmo, lead guitarist, and it has his style all over it. It is a driving song that is kept rolling along by the drumming of Scott Rockenfield (how cool is his last name?). Track # 2 is the great “Thin Line.”“Another hungry look in her eyes again… skin tight leather…” This song has it all- soft parts, rocking parts and great vocals. Eddie Jackson’s bass work really stands out on this song. The arrangement on this song is very strong and you will be “air-guitaring” throughout. Track # 3 is one of the more recognizable songs that they have ever done- “Jet City Woman” – c’mon you can’t tell me you don’t like this song? It’s blasting right now and you guessed it- my wife is telling me to turn it down. “Waiting so long I can’t wait another day without you…” I love it when Tate screeches “all along thinking about you..” Listen to this song with a good set of headphones and you will be off on a cloud. Again the arrangement is so good on this song; it compliments Tate’s vocal range. Three songs and 15 minutes go by in a breeze and then it’s on to the aforementioned “Rainy Night.” This album is full of songs that are soft and then gradually builds into a powerful force of sound. This song is the epitomy of what I am talking about. You won’t be able to get the chorus out of your head “I’m all alone and its another rainy night without you…” Side 1 ends with the title track and this song rocks!! This band is known for its socially conscious lyrics and on this song it speaks to how much money the U.S. government spent on space exploration as opposed to putting the money to law enforcement. “Can you feel it calling.. EMPIRE!!..”

Side two starts off with another hard charging song- “Resistance” and this is one of my favorites on the disc. Take a listen to the guitar solo on this song, it is really good and again you will not be able to get the chorus out of your head. This is a perfect song when you are traveling in your car- you know those driving songs, right? Then, the often-criticized “Silent Lucidity” begins and I have to tell you I could never understand why so many do not like this song. Every time I hear the song, I stop what I’m doing and just listen. The arrangement is beautiful and Tate’s vocals blend in perfectly. Hey it was the late 1980’s and every rock band had a ballad, so why all the grief for them on this song? I like it, always have-always will. Track # 3 on side two is my favorite track-“Hand on Heart”- and again Eddie’s bass work shines through. I have always pictured myself being up on stage lip-synching this song as I wish I could sing the song the way Geoff does. His passion bleeds through on this song and the guitar solo is the icing on the cake. “One and Only” is a progessive song that changes styles throughout. The album ends with the epic journey- “Anybody Listening?” Listen to the lyrics-very deep- and if I had to pick a song that symbolizes this band- this is it. The song has many soft parts that ascend into a solid wall of sound.

This album is not “metal” by any means- that is how it is listed on I-Tunes, please do not be scared to give this album a chance. There are some heavy parts but overall this is a sing-along album and something you will find yourself playing over and over again-like I did. These guys don’t get the credit that they deserve- you don’t sell 20 million records- and not have a fan base. They are still going strong today and will be at a theater near you in the near future. I know my brother will be there as this band has to rank in his top 10 bands of all time. Rock on people!!!

If you were born on this day you share a birthday with Olivia Newton John.

Back on this day in 1970, Motown Records announced that in just nine months their new act, The Jackson 5, had sold 10 million records.

And sadly back on this day in 2003, Robert Palmer passed away at the very young age of 54. I know you have something from him in your music library, how can you not?

Weekly Update – 09/19/2008

AC / DC at Madison Square Garden on Wed. & Thurs. Nov. 12 and 13 and at Izod Center on Thurs. Nov. 19. Tickets on sale tomorrow Sat. Sept. 20 at 10:00 a.m.$94 for Garden; $89.50 for Izod Center.

Elton John & Friends to celebrate the 35^th anniversary of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road at New Amersterdam Theater (214 West 42^nd Street) on Mon. Rocktober 20. Pre-sale tickets for American Express Cardholders through Mon. Sept. 22 until 10:00 p.m. General public tickets on sale Tues. Sept. 23 at 10:00 a.m. $250 – $2,500.

One Republic at Hammerstein Ballroom on Wed. Nov. 26. Pre-sale tickets for American Express Carholders on sale now until Fri. Sept. 26 at 10:00 p.m. General public tickets on sale next Saturday Sept. 27 at 10:00 a.m. $34.50. There is an 8 ticket per person limit.

Aimee Mann at the Nokia Theater on Wed. Dec. 17 for 3^rd annual Christmas show. Tickets on sale today at noon. $37.50 – $150.

Dionne Warwick at BB Kings on Fri. Jan. 23, 2009. Tickets on sale Wed. Rocktober 1 at noon. $67.50.

BB King at his place on Fri. Dec. 5. Tickets on sale today at 11:00 a.m. $125.

Mudvayne at Roseland Ballroom on Tues. Dec. 16. Tickets on sale tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. $29.99

Michael Franti & Spearhead at Nokia Theater on Fri. Nov. 21. Tickets on sale today at noon. $28.50. There is a six ticket limit per household.

Other items:

Paul McCartney is set to play in Israel for the first time next Thurs. Sept. 25 and there have been unconfirmed rumors that there is a death threat against him if he goes to Israel. McCartney is determined to attend no matter what. I don’t know, if I were him, I’d have second thoughts.

After a few years being away from the limelight, Eminem supposedly will have a new album out before the end of the year.

Check out my brother’s friend, Michael Rudin and his band- Jolly– at the following website: http://www.jollyband.com/Solstice.html Songs sound good, I like it. They are playing tonight at Arlene’s Grocery on 95 Stanton Street, near Houston Street. Take F or V train to 2^nd Avenue station.

The Killers new album- Day & Age- will be out on Nov. 25. The first single will be a song called “Human.”

My favorite “old school” song of the week- and also cracks my top 10 songs of all-time, is “Sunshine” by Jonathan Edwards. This war-protest song was written in 1971 and hit #4 on the Billboard charts.

My other favorite “old school” song this week is “Precious and Few” by the band Climax. (also known as Climax Blues Band) Remember this song? Written in 1972 and peaked at #3 on Billboard.

I know I told you about C-lebrity by Queen & Paul Rodgers last week, how come you haven’t picked it up? This song rocks and it’s skyrocketed to the top of my “new” favorite song of the week. Listen to May jam away!!!

CD review: “Learn to Live” by Darius Rucker released this past Tuesday Sept. 16, 2008. Now if his name sounds familiar-yes it is the lead singer of Hootie & The Blowfish- and he has put out his first country album. No offense to Mr. Rucker and his fellow bandmates of Hootie but I was not a big fan of their music. Yet somehow this album has struck a chord with me and I have to say that I love his first venture into country music. This album is very solid and there will be more than a few hits on it. The first one “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It” is already number 3 on the country music charts. The album kicks off with “Forever Road” a sweet old country song that has a catchy chorus- “Don’t worry baby, I ain’t no maybe, rain or shine this love of mine is for you.” The arrangement of violins and if I hear correctly-banjos, make these traditional instruments sound very contemporary. This will be a hit at some point down the road. Track # 2 is my favorite song on the album- “All I Want” – Brad Paisley is a musical guest on this one. Now for all the women out there- you might be upset with the lyrics- but it’s all in fun. This is a song you need to play LOUD and I can just picture lots of people in a country bar “line dancing” to this one all night long. Listen to the piano playing in the background- great. This song sounds like Darius has been doing country music his whole life. The rest of the album is very good but I would have liked to have more songs like this one, which has a lot of “kick” to it.Track # 3 is the aforementioned “Don’t Think..” Again the thing that comes to mind is how impressive the sound is. Perfect combination of Rucker’s vocals behind the guitars and drums really make this a sing along song that will have you hitting the rewind button to hear it again. The title track is the fourth song on the album and tells the story of how Darius would listen to his Grand father’s every word. “You got to live and learn, crash and burn…” In true typical “country” lyrics the song basically tells the story of his life long journey which was facilitated by his grandfather.

Track # 5 slows down a bit and gets a little help from Vince Gill and Alison Krauss on the inspirational “If I Had Wings.” This is a beautiful song and no doubt will also be a big hit. His vocals are probably the best on this song, they are crystal clear and the background vocals by Krauss make it that much better.The next song-“History in the Making” is a song that will be sung by American Idol contestants next year and the crowd will be swaying back and forth with their arms high in the air. “Alright” kicks it up a bit and my favorite part is when he says “I got my stereo and the best of Patsy Cline..” Can’t get any better than her, right? This is a catchy tune as well and you’ll find yourself dancing around your living room by yourself while cleaning up. Track # 8 slows down again with “It Won’t Be Like This for Long”- man this song hit home for me and probably for many other people as well. Another beautiful song. “Drinking and Dialing” is what you think the song is about. It has a bluesy twist to it and it will have you snapping your fingers. “I Hope They Get to Me in Time” is another life story that is condensed into 3 minutes. This may be a little slow for some and not one of the better ones on the CD- but not bad. “While I Still Got Time” is probably something that Hootie & the Blowfish could have done- I have to admit- minus the “twang” of the guitars. “Be Wary of a Woman” is the final track of the album and does not distinguish it too much from the previous songs but has a head bopping chorus that will have you singing along. “I Want to Thank You” is the bonus track from I-Tunes and this song is good as well.

All in all I have to say that this album is excellent and I have listened to it more than a few times this week. If I had any suggestions it would have been to make more songs like “All I Want” and maybe mix up the songs a bit- meaning not having too many slow songs in a row. But hey that’s not unlike any other Country album that is out there. Mr. Rucker has finally made my music library and who would have thought that it would be this album? Make no mistake, this is not a “rookie” album- this album is impressive in many ways and he will be pulling in new fans across the nation. How great is it discovering new music? You see what I’m talking about…..

Back on this day in 1981, Simon & Garfunkle reunited with a concert at Central Park.

Today is the birthdate of Cass Elliot of the Mama’s & Papa’s, had she still been with us, she would have been 67.

Paul Williams turns 68 today and so does Bill Medley.

CD Review: Death Magnetic- Metallica

CD Review: Death Magnetic by Metallica released Sept. 12, 2008

OK I am not going to sit here and write that Metallica is back. For me, they never really left. Throughout careers, artsist are going to have their ups and downs along with their studs and clunkers. It comes with the territory. Hey even Mariano Rivera blows a save or two, right? What I don’t understand is why Metallica is held to higher standard than everyone else. Maybe it’s because of how they broke on to the scene- was there a more popular band to rip through the under ground music scene over the past 30 years? Maybe not but I could name a few who generated a lot of excitement. Let’s take Guns & Roses; Back in 1987 there was such a buzz about that band and I of course was swept up in it and at the time, there was nobody better. Then in 1991, the emergence of Nirvana rocked the music industry and took out all the “hair bands” in the process. Ladies & Gentlemen, where are those bands now? If Metallica gets grief for doing the “Black” album- at least that was their 5^th album. Five top notch albums in a row. What did GNR ever really do after Appetite? Please don’t even waste your breath on “Use Your Illusion.” Same goes for Nirvana after “Nevermind.” So Metallica took a journey into a different music world, so what? Are you still doing the same things you were doing 25 years ago? Are you still able to do the things you did 25 years ago? For most, the answer is no but do the boys from Metallica get any slack? No, of course not, but as you get older you realize that the haters will always be there no matter what, so you move on- as Metallica has done. Maybe the ride has come full circle because 25 years later- they have come close to putting out the same music as “Master of Puppets” and “And Justice for All.”

Death Magnetic starts off with the sound of a heart beating and in my mind it’s a message to those “nay-sayers” that they are still alive and kicking. First off I half to apologize to Rick Rubin because I figured he would mellow the boys out. Just the opposite- this album kicks your butt and dares you to come back for more. There are stops, kick-starts, accelerations, declerations, relentess precision sharp turns every where on this album. If you don’t think the first three songs on this album are “metal” enough for you- go look for your 18-year old death metal band in the dark woods of Norway-because these songs will rock the roof of your car off. About 1:30 into the album the ride begins and within seconds you can get whiplash in your neck from the speed and intensity that Lars, James, Kirk and Robert bring to “That Was Just Your Life.” Not bad for guys in their 40’s!! This song sort of reminds me of “Blackened.” And I do hear the bass in this song. Yes I do. (Mr. Trujillo has taken some heat for being invisible on this album- just as Kirk did on St. Anger- again if people don’t have something to complain about-they’re not happy). Kirk’s solo on this song rips your face off (and that’s another thing I’ve seen written- the critics were complaining that Kirk had no solos on “St. Anger” and now that he is all over this album- people have written that his solos are nothing innovative- you know what- Bite Me!!!) As the first song comes to a screeching halt- BOOM- “The End of the Line” is right there to remind you that the one-two punch will be coming at you many times. The friggin’ time changes on this song are so good and just like before- you don’t know where you are headed- a long groove or short crushing beats that have you banging your head up and down in satification. I picture “Rocky” punching the meat inside the freezer when I hear this song. The songs are epic like journeys as the only song less than 6 minutes is the closer “My Apocalyse” which is just over 5 minutes long. “The Slave becomes the Master..” is the chorus that closes out “The End of the Line” and James vocals are much less emotional on this album than on St. Anger. Track # 3 “Broken, Beat & Scarred” is a tune that I can’t wait for them to perform live. I can just picture 18,000 fans in a controlled frenzy jamming to this song. Friggin’ phenomenal. Please turn this up in your car by yourself. You won’t be disappointed. This will be a fan favorite in no time. Sounds like these guys have been working out because it is a full court press for 6 minutes and 25 seconds. Friggin’ Lars is all over the place and there is no other drummer for this band except him- period end of story.

Then as you catch your breath, the infectious “The Day That Never Comes” begins and at first I wasn’t so hot about this song but it has really grown on me and I relaized how great this song is. Please listen with your mind open. James vocals are good on this song, and blends perfectly with Lars drumming up & down. As the song deepens it grows faster and turns into a sort of “One” or “Fade to Black.” “Love is a four letter word…” James wails and then they all jam and take the song and ride it out just like a cowboy riding off in the sunset. The beginning of “All Nightmare Long” sort of reminds me of Enter Sandman and then there it is- another fastball under your chin. The blistering guitar work by James and Kirk really stand out on this track. This song is rough and continues James fascination about dreams. Listening to Kirk hammer away on his solo, I ask all the haters out there? What do you want? You can’t get squeeze water out of a stone, so why not enjoy and admire the skills that this man has? This song could have easily been on Ride the Lightning or Master, period end of story!! Track 6 is another rocker- Cyanide- and I will say that this song could have been something that the boys would have done for their “Load” and “ReLoad” period. But this does not make it bad- just the opposite- it makes it good because not everything on Load or Reload was terrible as many haters will tell you. Now the most intriguing song on Death Magnetic is “The Unforgiven III” and just like we learned on Seasame Street- this song is not like the others and it is easy to pick that out. The more I listen to this track, the more I like it. It has grown on me and I will say that it is not a song to skip over-there hasn’t been one yet and we are now 70% done. I like the groove in this song and James vocals shine bright on this track.

The last three tracks are phenomenal beginning with my favorite of the album- “Judas Kiss” – “Bow down and sell your soul to me..” Again I hear Trujillo’s bass loud and clear and can’t wait to see them perform this live as well. The back & forth between James and Kirk on this song definitely brings out their best as each are at the top of their game. And what about Lars you ask? The man keeps the train rolling and I can’t imagine how much fun he had making this album because the drumming stands out throughout the whole CD. This is right up his alley- Intensity!! Track # 9 is the longest track and is an instrumental. This song unleashes riff after riff and I would assume that this song will be played the most on Guitar Hero. Friggin’ rocks and again has an infectious groove that will easily take you to the ten minute mark without you realizing it. Kirk hits the cover off the ball and maybe it’s his turn on rage because his solo is down right scorching. The album ends with the aforementioned “My Apocalypse.” I dare the haters out there to say that this song couldn’t be on Master of Puppets, Ride the Lightning or And Justice for All. Please don’t even go there because this song makes them seem like they are 18 all over again. (Ok maybe not the vocals but you get my drift). The song is a blistering all out thrash metal revival of what they can always do- it’s like riding a bike- you don’t forget. The ending comes crashing and then you realize the ride is over. But just like at the amusement park- you’re begging for another free ride- so what do you do? Start it all over again.

Death Magnetic is a solid album and for all the “original” fans of Metallica they probably would say that this album should have followed “And Justice For All.” But it didn’t and just like I said at the beginning, we all have a journey in life and it takes us in different directions. Sometimes you hit a bump in the road- as they did- and yes Jason suffered for that bump but I bet he was glad that he was able to ride the Metallica train for as long as he did. And as in life sometimes, we all get off at different stations. Metallica, as I mentioned, is an acquired taste and not for the weak ears. This album will rock your socks off and it is fast, furious and loud. Now to some- that is what they live for- for others not so much. So for the Metallica fans looking for “Until It Sleeps” this album is probably not for you- but maybe it is. For all the fans looking for “Battery”- this album is definitely for you. (without all the complaints please). I believe Metallica is in a good place right now and based on this CD they still have a lot more left in the tank. \m/ \m/

Weekly Update – 09/12/2008

AC / DC at Madison Square Garden on Wed. & Thurs. Nov. 12 and 13 and at Izod Center on Thurs. Nov. 19. Are you kidding me? WHO IS IN? I’M IN!!!  Tickets on sale next Sat. Sept. 20. More information to follow.

Neil Young and Wilco at Madison Square Garden on Mon. Dec. 15. Pre-sale starts today at 10:00 a.m. through Q1043 and the password is Powderfinger. General public tickets on sale this coming Monday Sept. 15 at 9:00 a.m. $54.50 – $254.50.

Rascal Flatts with Taylor Swift at the Mohegan Sun on Sat. Nov. 1. Tickets on sale tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. $75 – $115

Trans Siberian Orchestra at Izod Center on Sat. Dec. 13. Tickets on sale this morning at 10:00 a.m. $44 – $59.

Tony Bennett at the Capital One Theater in Westbury NY on Thurs. Dec. 4. Tickets on sale today at 12:30 p.m. $72.50 – $87.50.

Debbie Harry, Moby & Others at the Highline Ballroom on Mon. Rocktober 6. Tickets on sale today at noon. $25.

Power 105.1 show with Jay-Z and Lil Wayne at the Izod Center on Tues. Rocktober 28. Pre-sale today until 10:00 p.m. for Citicard holders only. General public on sale tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. $47 – $197.

Nine Inch Nails at House of Blues in Atlantic City on Thurs. Nov. 6. Tickets on sale tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. $103.

Twisted Sister at Nokia Theater on Fri. Dec. 5. Use this link http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/00004129C0AA73AD today at noon and get tickets before the general public. Password is “twisted.” General public on sale Fri. Sept. 26. $40 – $140.

Brian Wilson at the Hammerstein Ballroom on Fri. Nov. 21. Tickets on sale today at 11:00 a.m. $57.50 – $98.

Other items:

Queen with Paul Rodgers has put out a new single “C-lebrity” for their upcoming CD “Cosmo Rocks” which is due out on Rocktober 28. Take a listen and you will like it. Rodgers still has the chords and Brian May can still rock out. This is their first studio album and it is dedicated to Freddie Mercury. Check it out, sounds like something the original Queen would do and who doesn’t like Paul Rodgers?

Yes has decided to go on with their 40^th reunion tour without Jon Anderson- he had acute respitory failure in June and was ordered by doctors to rest for 6 months. So who is the new singer? Mr. Benoit David, who sings with a few Yes tribute bands in Montreal. He was uncovered the same way that the members of Journey found Arnel Pineda- a You Tube video showing him singing Yes songs. Signed him immediately and will now tour. Man this You Tube is making dreams come true.

Kayne West was arrested yesterday at LAX airport for smashing a paparazzo’s camera.

Beyonce’s third solo album will be released Nov. 18. No title as of yet- Justin Timberlake makes an appearance.

Heart was furious with the Republican Party for using their monster hit “Barracuda” every time Sarah Palin was introduced at the RNC. Palin’s nickname is the same name as their song. Heart has ordered an immediate ban of the song for Palin.

I have a few favorite classics songs of the week for you today and in no particular order:“Anyone Who Had a Heart” by Dusty Springfield -now I know most people know the Dionne Warwick version but for me it’s Dusty. She captivates my attention on every song she has ever done. She’s worked her way to my top 5 female performers of all time.  “Beautiful” comes to mind whenever I hear her name. How about “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair) by Scott McKenzie. Man do I love the bridge- “All across the nation, such a strange vibration…” Great song. And how about the unforgettable “I’ve Got to Be Me” by Sammy Davis Jr.? I love the beginning“Whether I’m right or whether I’m wrong. Whether I find a place in this world or never belong…” Listen to the man’s passion on this song!! This song will live on for eternity!!! How about “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard it Should Be” by Carly Simon? I betcha you forgot about that song. Go back and listen to how special a song it is. The last song that you need to own in your music library is “Release Me” by Engelbert Humperdinck. Listen to the arrangement on this song and tell me it doesn’t sound like it was recorded last week. You know that saying “they just don’t make songs like that anymore.”- This song falls into that category for me. I can’t say enough about this song- I’ve listened to it over and over the last few weeks. By the way you can’t go wrong with his greatest hits on 20^th Century Masters, every song on that album I grew up listening to and know every one.

My favorite new song of the week is “Call Me” by Shinedown. Now I know you’re probably sick of me writing about this band but I can’t stop. I thought they were good on the Jay Leno show last Friday night- my wife was not so impressed- hey what can I say. I can’t get enough of this band. Without a doubt, they have the number one album of 2008!!!

Former Ratt frontman, Stephen Pearcy, has a new album out- his first in three years and it’s called Under My Skin. Sounds pretty good on the 30 second I-Tune sampling. Check it out!

On Sept. 29, VH1 Classic will show “Rush Hashanah.” Supposedly it is a 24-hour tribute and will have “Rush in Rio” and R30 concerts as well as videos.

Did you happen to catch the Fashion Rocks show on CBS this past Tuesday night? What an enjoyable show from start to finish. Now for people who know me- for me to stay awake from 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.- you know the show had to be good. What I loved about the show was the way they paid tribute to the great artists of the past. Isn’t this what I have been preaching here for sometime now? Take Beyonce’s tribute to the legendary Etta James with a spectacular-spot on- version of “At Last.” Are you kidding me? – blew me away. Or how about Chris Brown taking on Sam Cooke’s “Cupid?” Chris Brown who is all of 19 years old? I would have liked it if he did the whole song but hey you can’t always get what you want. You all know how I feel about Sam Cooke. Ranks up in the top 5 singers of all-time, period end of story!! What about Fergie? Is it me or is she everywhere? Her performance of “Call Me” by Blondie was so energetic; I wanted to get up on stage and dance around. Debby Harry still looks good and her voice sounded great. Fergie was also part of the best performance of the night when she came out with the Black Eyed Peas to do an awesome version of the Rolling Stone’s “Miss You.” Dare I say it was better than the original?

OK who is living larger than Kid Rock? This guy has the life!!! Did you see him out there with Mary J. Blige singing the classic “I’m Losing You” by the Temptations? And then he comes back out again to do his “All Summer Long” hit which then morphs into “Sweet Home Alabama” with the current members of Lynyrd Skynyrd. Talk about being out of place as far as “fashion.” Now I love Skynyrd but they stuck out like a sore thumb with their “stuck in 1976” look. But that’s what is so great about Kid Rock- he puts them back on the map again.

Really can’t say the same thing about the MTV music awards show (VMA or whatever). I remember when I use to so look forward to that show. I listened to five minutes of the host, Russell Brand, and I was out. He was terrible and the show is too boring. It’s not about the music anymore, it’s about who “is all that.” Stupid comes to mind. What has happened to MTV? They use to be so cool.

In honor of today being National “Metallica” Day-as their new album “Death Magnetic” is released- I thought it was apropos to review my favorite album by the boys from California. “…And Justice For All”-which was released back in 1988.And no it is not because “One” is on this album. Not saying I don’t love the song but it’s something that is sometimes over-played, especially at their shows. (Lars- there are other songs on this album that you can perform live). Now for those of you who know me a long time, you know that I became a Metallica fan after the “Black Album” was released in 1991. So if that destroys the “street cred” – then so be it. But like I’ve said all along on this site- discovery of music- whether new or old- is what it is all about. After loving the Black Album, I went back and now own their entire catalog of music. I was also a Met club member for about 8-years, I didn’t renew the subscription a few years back. So that being said, back to And Justice For All.The one thing I will always remember about this album was that when my wife was pregnant with our first son-she had gone out for a few hours- and I had to prepare the room for our new arrival- and I played this album two times in its entirety while painting the room. Talk about head banging with a rolling paintbrush!!!

The album starts off with the blistering “Blackened”- though it starts off low and you’re thinking, “This is Metallica?” Then 35 seconds in- the ride begins- instant head banging as the classic Hetfield and Ulrich combination sends you into a frenzy. This album is full of so many changes in tempo and this song is no different. I love the part where Hetfield sings out “Opposition.. Contradiction..Premonition..Comprise…” Kirk Hammett’s solos fit in perfect. Then it’s on to the title track- an epic piece that has a long intro into a heavy jam and an even longer intro. Just listen to how tight they are in this song? There are lightning rhythmic changes throughout as well as gripping “slow-downs.” Kirk’s solo half way through the song kicks butt. If you can handle this song- it’s a perfect work out song- find a heavy boxing bag and punch away. Track # 3 is “Eye of the Beholder” and a perfect song to see them live. Just picture 18,000 plus banging their heads in unison. “Doesn’t Matter What You See Or into it What You Read…” screams Hetfield as my ears are screaming for relief as the volume is out of control right now. This could be the best and my favorite song of the album. Side one ends with the aforementioned classic “One.” This song is their “Stairway to Heaven” and is a staple at their shows. If you have not heard it in a while and go back to listen to it- you’ll be reminded why it receives so many accolades from almost every heavy/hard rock musician on the planet. Of course when it speeds up, my head and face shake from side to side as fast as I can do it and I scream along with James- “Darkness…Imprisoning Me.. All that I See.. Absolute Horror…” Whew my head hurts and I haven’t even put on side 2 yet!!!

Side Two starts off with “The Shortest Straw” and this is also one of my favorites of the album. Hetfield’s guitar work on this bad boy just keeps it rolling and Lars is flat out on fire!!! I love the chorus “Shortest Straw..Challenge Liberty.. Downed by Law.. Live in Infamy..” There is a lot of double bass drumming on this song and it makes it sound that much heavier.“Harvester of Sorrow”- Oh I just changed my mind- this is my favorite song on the album. (You see how hard it is picking a favorite). My walls are shaking right now and I’m back painting the walls of my son’s room back in Ringwood. This is the first album recorded with Jason Newsted on bass, after the untimely death of Cliff Burton back on Sept. 27, 1986 and his bass work stands out on this track. This song rocks with a slower pace of head banging and it is the ultimate air-guitar song!!! Then it’s on to the Wizard of Oz as the beginning of “The Frayed Ends of Sanity” uses the “Oh wee Oh” verse to kick off a speed metal song that will have you trying to catch your breath. The solo from Kirk just may be his best on this song. “To Live is to Die” is their majestic masterpiece. ‘Nuff said. Just listen and learn why they are so revered. Nine and a half minutes of pure genius. The album ends with the shortest song – “Dyers Eve”- but don’t kid yourself- sometimes it’s the shortest ones that packs the biggest punch and in this case the song is “controlled chaos.” This song is all over the place and yet it sounds the tightest on the album. Again Kirk’s solo is lights out. As the album comes to a crashing end, it enforces my theory that this is their best work.There are long periods of instrumental genius throughout this album and their passion bleeds through the speakers on every song. I will equate it to AC/DC when they did “Back in Black”- they were doing it as a tribute to their “brother”-Bon Scott- who had passed away unexpectedly. Same here- this album is a tribute to Burton- so you know they put all of their heart and soul into it.

Now I know the earlier Metallica is not for everyone and especially this album because this is thrash metal at its best. It’s an acquired taste but give it a chance, don’t just write it off- open your mind to “heavy.” I think we all need it (“heavy”) at certain times-not all the time- but you know what I’m talking about. So in honor of “Death Magnetic” which has been compared to “And Justice for All” I salute Metallica and you all should do your part today by blasting a tune from the boys-whether it be in your car, your house or your headphones!!! Rock on my friend’s…\m/ \m/

Back on this day in 2003, the world lost a music icon- Mr. Johnny Cash died at the age of 71.

Back on this day in 1966, The Monkees TV show premiered on NBC.

Today is the birthdate of Mr. Barry White, had he still be with us, he would have been 64.

Weekly Update – 09/05/2008

Metallica with Machine Head and The Sword at Nassau Coliseum and Izod Center on Thurs. Jan. 29 and Sun. Feb. 1. Pre-sale tickets for American Express cardholders go on sale Sept. 8 at 10:00 a.m. through Sept. 9 until 10:00 p.m. Tickets on sale next Sat. Sept. 13 at 10:00 a.m. Nassau: $59.50 – $79.50; Izod: $62.50 – $82.50. There is a 4 ticket limit per household.

Tina Turner at Prudential Center on Wed. & Thurs. Nov. 26 & Nov. 27; at Madison Square Garden on Mon. Dec. 1; at Nassau Coliseum on Wed. & Thurs. Dec. 3 & 4. Pre-sale tickets for American Express cardholders on sale now until Sun. Sept. 14 at 5:00 p.m. General public on sale Mon. Sept. 15 at 10:00 a.m.  Prudential Center: $59.50 – $153; MSG- $59.50 – $179.50; Nassau-$56.50 – $150.

Mary J. Blige and Robin Thicke at Radio City Music Hall on Fri. Rocktober 3. Pre-sale begins today at 10:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. (Citi)  General public on sale tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. $69.50 – $165.50.

Susan Tedeschi and James Hunter at the Fillmore New York on Wed. Nov. 12. Tickets on sale next Friday Sept. 12 at 10:00 a.m. $31.50.

Dolly Parton at Izod Center on Fri. Rocktober 31. Tickets on sale today at 9:00 a.m. $56.50 – $96.50.

Lucinda Williams and Buick 6 at the WAMU Theater at Madison Square Garden on Fri. Rocktober 3. Tickets on sale this morning at 10:00 a.m. $38

The Decemberists at Terminal 5 on Wed. Nov. 5. Tickets on sale today at noon. $31.

In Flames at Terminal 5 on Sun. Dec. 7. Tickets on sale today at noon. $25

Vonda Shepard at BB Kings on Fri. Jan. 9, 2009. Tickets on sale today at noon. $28.

Alison Moyet at Blender Theater on Tues. Rocktober 7. Tickets on sale today at noon. $49.50.

Soulfly at Blender Theater on Fri. Nov. 14. Tickets on sale today at noon. $25.

Jack’s Mannequin at Blender Theater on Fri. Nov. 21. Tickets on sale next Sat. Sept. 13 at 10:00 a.m. $32.50.

T.I. at Highline Ballroom on Tues. Sept. 30. Tickets on sale today at 10:00 a.m. $50.

Blues Traveler at Highline Ballroom on Thurs. Rocktober 16. Tickets on sale today at noon. $25 ($30 day of show)

Other items:

“Just Stand Up” is a new single from Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, Rihanna, Fergie, Sheryl Crow, Melissa Etheridge, Miley Cirus, Carrie Underwood, Natasha Bedingfield, Leona Lewis, Ashanti and LeAnn Rimes that is in support of tonight’s national broadcast of the “Stand Up to Cancer” special. It will be shown on ABC, CBS and NBC at 8:00 p.m. For more information go to www.su2c.org  It is a feel good song with inspirational lyrics that should do real well. Purchase it now!!!

This week’s single release from Metallica is “Cyanide” and from the 30 second release from I-Tunes it again sounds solid. I will buying the CD, sorry I-Tunes,when it comes out next Friday. Check out the video for “The Day That Never Comes” at http://www.923krock.com/pages/2892697.phpDeath Magnetic has already received a 4 star rating from Rolling Stone Magazine. The review states that Rubin has brought back the original Metallica. Are you ready for next Friday or what??!!! \m/ \m/

My favorite old school song of the week is “Beds Are Burning” from Midnight Oil? Remember that song? And the video? They also had another cool song “Blue Sky Mine.”

My favorite “oldie” song of the week is “Those Lazy Hazy Crazy Days of Summer” by Nat King Cole. Don’t scratch your head, take a listen. You have to pass on down the classics, right?

I have to tell you I like some of the new songs by Journey (no I did not go to Walmart, a friend brought it to my house). “Like a Sunshower” has really grown on me and I’m telling you this is the Journey you knew in the 1980’s. Arnel Pineda is the real deal. Hope he gets over his case of bronchitis real soon.As I mentioned in my concert review a few weeks ago, the song “Change for the Better” will be a staple at future shows. Check this song out and the rest of “Revelations.”

Nickelback is recording a new album now and it will come out on Nov. 18. No title as of yet. The first single “If Today Was Your Last Day” will arrive at radio stations on Sept. 30.

Slash is going to be a presenter at the MTV awards this Sunday Sept. 7 at 9 p.m. Britney will be “opening” the show but she will not be performing.

Target was the winner in the Christina Aguilera greatest hits sweepstakes and the retail outfit will be the only one to sell her “Keeps Getting’ Better- A Decade of Hits” due out on Nov. 11. Aguilera joins Alicia Keys, John Legend and Carrie Underwood- all of who have released exclusively through Target. If you’re keeping score at home- yes if it is one of my favorite bands that release through Target only- I will purchase it from them. (Collective Soul being an example).

Little Big Town has left their independent record label and jumped to Capitol Nashville and will re-release “A Place to Land” which will include four new tracks on Rocktober 14.Now if you remember I put that album in my top 5 albums for 2007, if you don’t have it- wait another month and you’ll get four new songs- can’t beat that.

Paul Stanley, alias the Lover, had some harsh words for a heckling fan at their Aug. 30 show in Nevada and I have to tell you I was shocked at what he told this guy. There is a video clip out there so look for it. I won’t put it here because this is a family show but this guy must have really pissed off Paul.

This week’s I-POD shuffle landed on “Young Lust” from Aerosmith off of their tenth studio album-“Pump” which was released 19 years ago this month. You know I had to listen to the whole album. “Young Lust” starts off with such ferocity that you know the ride is going to be good. Now is this my favorite Aerosmith album- yes but I will preface it by saying that this is my favorite post “comeback” album from the boys from Boston. (“Draw the Line” is my favorite pre-comeback) I don’t know what is better- Joey Kramer’s drumming, Joe Perry’s guitar, or Steven Tyler’s vocals. (I know Tom Hamilton and Brad Whitford keep this train running-so no offense to those boys). You have to listen to this song LOUD, there’s no way you can’t. And how about the ending of the song as it rips right into “F.I.N.E.?” “I’ll take a rain check until I get back on my feet.. honey…” Lots of energy in the first two songs, especially this one. Kramer’s drumming shines on this song and Tyler’s screeching is top notch throughout the song. This song rocks!! Track # 3- the irresisitable “Love in an Elevator.” The hook in this song is something that you can not get out of your head. Remember the video for this song? Man- how many times has MTV played this video? Perry’s guitar solo makes me want to get Guitar Hero and start jamming right now. “Kiss your sassafrass…” Again Kramer’s stick work is phenomenal. “Monkey on My Back” is a song about their struggles with drug and alcohol usage.I love the opening lyrics “The fortune teller looked into my eye balls, the wrinkles on her face about to crack…” Tyler steals the spotlight on this song and really highlights his ability as a frontman for one of the best rock bands in history. This is a great spin song by the way. Wow the first four songs of this album are top notch and I would put these first four songs up against any other artists album. The last track on side 1 is the very important “Janie’s Got a Gun” which deals with issue of incest and murder. Now matter how many times you hear this song, it is still good. “Everybody is on the run.. honey honey what’s the problem..”

Side two kicks off with “Dulcimer Stomp” which sounds like something around a campfire and then kicks into the rocking “The Other Side.” This is my favorite track. I love the horns, it adds to the flavor of the song. I can listen to this song over and over. Again play it LOUD. “My Girl” keeps the album in 5^th gear and every time I hear this song I have to dance around the house. This is a perfect workout song and Perry’s solo in the middle is spot on. I don’t know what it is about this album but Kramer’s drums sound so clear and really is the engine that keeps this whole album flowing so smoothly. The drumming is crystal clear for “My Girl.” You finally get a breather as the bluesy “Don’t Get Mad- Get Even” starts out with an edge and the beat is infectious. I love the “slapping” effects as Tyler lets loose on someone. Track # 9 is the mysterious “Hoodoo/Voodoo Medicine Man.” I remember when I first heard this song I was like “what is this?” But then I quickly learned how great this song would be once Kramer’s drumming got it rolling. “Some Kind of Voodoo come across this land…” Tyler’s “scat –like” vocals really punctuate this song. You can feel his energy dripping through the speakers. The final track “What it Takes” is their “pop” hit and yes it is different from the original Aerosmith sound… but… I like it.Tell me you haven’t tried to wail like Tyler when he screeches “dice….” C’mon you know you have. This has all the makings of a radio hit but it works for me.

Pump is Aerosmith’s second biggest seller at more than 7 million units sold- Toys In the Attic is their number one at more than 8 million sold. They are the best selling rock band of all time selling more than 150 million albums worldwide, with more than 66 million sold alone in the U.S. Their “comeback” back in 1987 onwards is probably the best one any band has ever made and for me “Pump” is what put them back on the map. This album has so much power, energy and rawness and it still sounds fresh. You need to own this in your music library and all I have to say is you need to “pump” up the volume on this one!!!

Back on this day in 1946 the late Freddie Mercury was born. Today is Al Stewart’s birthday (“The Year of the Cat”) and he turns 63.

Back on this day in 1976, Dean Martin “reunites” himself with Jerry Lewis on Jerry’s Muscular Dystrophy Annual Telethon, ending a 20-year separation.