DMX Is Making A Deal

Famous American rapper DMX had confessed about the fact that he was stealing, possessed drugs and kept on being violent with animals, said the AP news agency. During the court hearings in Maricopa (Arizona) DMX (whose real name is Earl Simmons) made a deal with the investigation, according to which he is not trying to deny all the above convictions. In riverse, the court is not going to continue to pressure him and will close the case. Due to this legal deal Simmons will be put to jail for three months, and after that he will be forsed to stay under a constant police supervision. Until the verdict is finally given Simmons will stay in custody, and the worst for him is that all this waiting time shall not be counted. Back in 2007 DMX was cought under some real fire. Still it’s hard to tell if he was really so ruthless with animals, particularly dogs, but the law is really stepping on his shoes this time.

Other deal requirements will prohibit him from having any pets or animals, and of course no guns. Besides that, he must undergo the special psychological treatment program, which is prescribed to people who are potentially or literally cruel with animals.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Two Years Of Touring

Guns N’ Roses is planning to start the world tour (sometimes by the end of March, 2009), which is going to last for nearly two years. What a shocking news for the band that stayed without an album for almost fifteen years. This information was given to the Rolling Stone magazine by the band’s guitarist Richard Fortus. This giant tour will be dedicated to their new album “Chinese Democracy”, which took decade and a half to be released. It’s going to be the fifth tour in support of this album since 2001, but the first one after the actual release. Currently, there is no official information from Axl Rose himself due to his traditional habit of not communicating with the media. Rolling Stone believes that an upcoming tour will allow them to stand out as headliners of many summer and autumn festivals on both sides of the Atlantic. Well, fifteen years in making of the album require some pay off, and this band needs to work quite hard to popularise it.

“Chinese Democracy” was released on November 23 and right from the beginning had experienced a lot of warm judgements from the critics, but failed to lead the music charts. The only exception took place during the first week of sales. Some people criticise Axl for this failure because he refused to show off and promote it.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Smashing Pumpkins Brings In Lottery

Visitors of the Stereogum.com will be able to win the 8 Gb iPod Nano player with the full Smashing Pumpkins discography in it. Slowly, but definitely the music industry is realising that new things are going to continue no matter what. Besides the studio albums it will include b-sides, rare songs, and previously unreleased song ‘Translucent’. This “full of music” iPod will be a ‘lottery gift’ called ‘Gum Drop Giveaway #69’. In order to be a part of this procedure one should register on Stereogum.com. A winner shall be identified on February 1, 2009. The owner of iPod Nano will also receive “If All Goes Wrong” DVD, which is dedicated to the band’s 20th anniversary. It contains various interviews with Billy Corgan and other musicians. Jack Gulick is the director and producer of the DVD, who is also famous for his notable co-working with Metallica, Godsmack and Bruce Spingsteen.

Previously, Billy Corgan kept on saying that the music industry in it’s traditional shape and form cannot exist anymore. According to him their fans are not willing to worth the band’s music anymore, especially if it’s long and alternative. Well, possibly his view is currently being reflected upon this free gift.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Ian Gillan Goes Classical

Deep Purple legendary vocalist Ian Gillan is planning to perform together with the Paris symphonic orchestra in two German cities – Grafenhainichen and Magdeburg, said Blabbermouth. By organizing these two concerts they shall write another important page in the history of rock and classical music. The whole program is called “Classics Play Rock” and may include a lot of attention. The coolest thing about it is that both rock and classical sides have agreed to make everything going without any problems. This joint concert program shall include the most famous Deep Purple songs, but the whole plan was not revealed so far, and it sounds like the whole track list will become known only during the concerts. In addition, Gillan will repeat this co-operation with the classical stuff again in September, 2009 together with the Prague orchestra. Definitely, everyone would like to perform with such a person.

Ian Gillan used to leave Deep Purple twice, but each time he just kept on coming back. He was in the middle of every Deep Purple song which became legendary, and practically without him this band would probably not exist. Recenty, Gillan had performed together with the band in dedication to their 40th anniversary. In January, 2009 he is about to release his solo album “One Eye on Morocco”.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Gorillaz Got It Right

Virtual band Gorillaz which is organized by Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett (designer) turned to be the most popular group of 2008 among the users of MySpace social network, said New Musical Express. The total number of votes reaches up to 682875. All these guys have decided to proclaim them to be the best out of eight other bands. It seems that virtual stuff in the music industry keeps on moving. The second spot (596885 votes) was taken by Bullet For My Valentine, and a third place went to Amy Winehouse (542268). Here is a complete list: 1. Gorillaz, 2. Bullet for My Valentine, 3. Amy Winehouse, 4. Coldplay, 5. Lilly Allen, 6. M.I.A., 7. Oasis, 8. Imogen Heap.

Besides that, MySpace had published a list of the most popular videos of 2008. Practically, it was quite expected that popular music on TV will be reflected upon this social network. Madonna’s “4 Minutes” goes first. The Verve’s “Love is Noise” follows her, and “Toe Jam” which is performed by BPA (David Byrne and Dizzy Rascal) takes the ‘bronze medal’.  

1. Madonna – “4 Minutes”, 2. The Verve – “Love is Noise”, 3. BPA – “Toe Jam’, 4. Justice – “DVNO”, 5. Oasis – “I’m Outta Time”, 6. Dragonforce – “Heroes of Our Time”, 7. Sigur Ros – “Inni Mer Syngur Vitleysingur”, 8. The Raconteurs – “Old Enough”.  

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

"No Line on the Horizon"

The new U2 album “No Line on the Horizon” shall be released on March 2, 2009 and will include five variations, said Billboard. Despite the traditional format it will also be available in three ‘gift’ versions for 35,98$, 49,98$ and 96$. Each one will incorporate Anton Corbijn’s documentary about U2. Anton Corbijn is the famous music video director and producer. He is co-working with this legendary Irish rock band for a while, and has made a few videos for them. Other differences between each version may vary on the quality of booklets, and possibly some other exclusively minor things. Every time when a consumer is looking at those 98 cents and the commercial variety of albums nothing cool comes to mind. During the age of the online music distribution, iPods and MP3s such things look too traditional because in reality only the hardcore fans will actually go for it. What actually matters is not the price, but the quality of music. Anyway, good luck to U2 with this new release, hence so far this band kept it quite real.

“No Line on the Horizon” will be their 12th studio album since the release of “How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb” in 2004.  

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Record Industry Is Changing Some Tactics

The American Recording Industry Association (RIAA) had declared it’s wish not to press any charges against those who are downloading music illegally using the MP3 format, said Cnet News. Instead of following that repressive path the RIAA will concentrate upon those who are downloading more than five/six thousand songs per month. In other words, those who are just playing with it shall not be followed. Of course, this is the great news for almost every Internet user who is getting things with the help of ‘digital progress’.  RIAA’s new strategy will be supported by the unknown (so far) Internet providers, which are planning to limit the traffic speed (kpbs) to those who are vigourosly downloading an incredible amount of music all the time. Every user who is getting too much stuff on the Internet will get a warning message on his/her email.

Previously RIAA was trying to follow everyone who had violated the copyright laws. However, these methods were getting negative feedbacks from musicians, users and even some record labels. Critics believe that such ‘dragon-like’ actions only make things worse and cannot be effective. One of the loudest court procedures made by RIAA is the case of Jayme Thomas. She was found guilty for stealing and spreading of twenty four music tracks (had to pay 220 thousand dollars fine). A year later the judge had accepted the fact that this was a bad mistake.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

The Best Of All Times

The British rock legend Jimmy Page is now officially considered to be the best among the greatest guitar players of all times, said Blabbermouth. These results were taken from the polls made by the American radio station “Chop Shop”. This list was set up by the experts that work in the various branches of music industry. Totally it includes one hundred guitar players. Particularly, all these musicians were graded on the basis of nine criterias including technical abilities, their influence on music, songwriting, uniqueness of their sound, and scenical longevity. Pretty hard to accomplish every point, but Page must deserve it. He seems to fit into each one.

The second guy is Jimmy Hendrix. He definitely takes up all the above criterias, but misses the last one. Eddie Van Halen came in third, and it’s really hard to say if he was placed on the right spot. Let’s just believe those experts. Eddie made some good music and always used to sound quite innovative. Here is a list of the first ten musicians:

1. Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin), 2. Jimmy Hendrix, 3. Eddie Van Halen (Van Halen), 4. David Gilmour (Pink Floyd), 5. Keith Richards (The Rolling Stones), 6. Pete Townshend (The Who), 7. Steve Vai, 8. Les Paul, 9. Angus Young (AC/DC), 10 Jeff Beck.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Sharon Osbourne Defends Her Husband

American police is suspecting that Sharon Osbourne (a wife of the Black Sabbath leader Ozzy Osbourne) attacked a woman for saying something really bad against her husband, said The Guardian. As Sharon’s victim reported, this incident took place during the filming of the American reality show “Rock of Love”: Charm School”, which is organized and led by Ozzy’s wife. The one who presumably suffered Sharon’s attack is an ex-Playbody model Megan Hauserman. It was said that Sharon grabbed her hair and began to scratch Hauserman’s face. When women are fighting just try to be as far as possible, especially if they’re rocking! Sharon Osbourne turned to be extremely angry after Megan had accused her of being only the manager of a brain-dead rock star and that there is nothing else she can do in her life. Anybody would get angry… LAPD’s representative has stated that they’re investigating this scandal, but still cannot prove if Sharon was really doing it. After all who knows, even though it sounds like Ozzy’s wife is capable of protecting her husband and this story may be very realistic anyway. All thumbs up for Sharon.

Sharon Osbourne became quite famous after the reality show “The Osbournes”, which was aired on MTV since 2002. The last episode was made in 2005.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Miroir Noir

Canadian indie-rockers Arcade Fire have released their concert DVD under the name “Miroir Noir”. This release represents a documentary about the band’s tour which took place in support of the album “Neon Bible” in 2007. A seventy minutes long movie was directed by Vincent Morisset, and actually filmed by Vincent Moon. DVD incorporates various concert and studio appearances including a “Neon Bible” performance inside the elevator (it was a part of their Take Away Shows project). “Miroir Noir” was recently posted at this site http://miroir-noir.com/, successfully continuing the Internet advertising traditions. It can be downloaded in three versions (5,99$ 9,99$ and 13,99$). Besides that, it can be ordered on the traditional disk for 15,99$, and if someone wants the gift version it’s price may reach 29,99$. Sounds like every version is pretty much the same, but advertising makes it look very different. Only the gift version contains Arcade Fire performance on BBC (Saturday Night Live). At the same time the gift version can be delivered exclusively until March 31, 2009, so those who consider themselves Arcade Fire fans should reach for it before this date.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Supergrass Goes Independent

The British band Supergrass had created it’s own record label, which is called Supergrass Records, said New Musical Express. All the future records shall be released exclusively by the powers possessed by Supergrass’ musicians, and no one else will be involved. Since the beginning of this band in 1994 these guys used to co-work with the Parlophone records, which belongs to EMI, so it’s not the first time when they’re trying to produce other people’s music. Also, they believe that this move may help them to make their own stuff more easily. In other words it won’t stop on recording process, but will move onto producing, designing and distribution of the new albums. Bassist Mickey Quinn is appointed to be the director of the band’s new business. “When you’re footing the bill you pull your horns in. In a lot of way that makes you more creative,” he added.

The first release of the Supergrass Records will be the band’s new song “Rebel in You”, and it must appear on their official web site in June, 2009 (http://www.supergrassrecords.com/). This page enebles pre-ordering as well. Practically, Supergrass is moving in the right direction by making themselves more independent from the major record labels. No one wants to depend on anyone, especially on the recording bureaucrats who make things only worse.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Pearl Jam Is About To Make Things Big Again

Pearl Jam had decided to re-release it’s debut album “Ten”. This record should see the light in four variations, and each one shall include previously unknown tracks that were made way back in the 90’s. Also, it will include remixes of their famous songs, said Billboard. Originally, “Ten” was released by the Epic records in 1991 and turned this previously unknown band into something absolutely great. Practically, Pearl Jam was one of those artistic groups which formed the grunge movement of the early 90’s. “Ten” includes their major hit ‘Even Flow’, which is proclaimed to be the most successful and popular songs that were ever produced by Pearl Jam. Nielsen SoundScan says that only in the US “Ten” sold 9,58 million copies. Think about the rest of the world!

The new release of “Ten” (also organized by the Epic records) must be out on March 24, 2009. It will incorporate the early versions of ‘Breath’, ‘State of Love and Trust’ and maybe ‘Brother’ (should be different from the one released on “Lost Dogs” in 2003), ‘Just a Girl’, ‘Evil Little Goat’ and ‘2,000 Mile Blues’ (an improvised version). DVD will be accompanying each release depending on it’s variation and price.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Smashing Pumpkins Will Refuse Albums

Smashing Pumpkins leader Billy Corgan has told the press that his band shall never again release albums in the classical format, and must concentrate only on singles, said The Guardian. “People don’t even listen to it all. They put it on their iPod, they drag over the two singles, and skip over the rest. The listening patterns have changed, so why are we killing ourselves to do albums, to create balance, and do the arty track to set up the single? It’s done”, said Corgan. He just throws the reality into everybody, and practically admits everything what takes places in the music industry today. Corgan is thinking that a bad sale of their last album “Zeitgeist” (2007) is due to fans who “have stopped being alternative” and simply cannot take ten minutes long tracks. Some people who have attended their last concerts asked for return of the money. Basically it was caused by the fact that on one of those concerts Smashing Pumpkins refused to perform their old hits, but tried to promote brand new twenty minutes long guitar jams.

Also, Corgan has told Chicago Tribune that he is not interested in reunited the “golden” Smashing Pumpkins lineup, – “Now that we’ve found people who we trust and are really dedicated, the door is closed. They’re done. They’re never coming back.”

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

On Sunday With Music

British tabloid The Mail On Sunday had created it’s own record company, said NME. The new label is called The Mail On Sunday Sounds. It’s director Peter Wright has stated that he is about to search for the new talents, and believes that this idea absolutely coinsides with The Mail’s point of view on such things. Usually this tabloid is not taking an old information from other news sources, but searches for everything on its own. It simply means only one thing, they may find someone new, and of course those can be valuable talents. Actually, this tactic is not very popular among those huge record labels, and maybe ‘The Mail’ will do something useful because it seems that nothing new gets out there. The first song which was produced and recorded by The Mail On Sunday Sounds was a Christmas melody “Holy Night” sang by an unknown church chorale - it came out on December 8.

Previously, The Mail On Sunday had tried to produce and spread music albums. In fact, it worked with Prince’s “Planet Earth” and McFly’s “Radio:Active”. These releases were given for free while accompanying their informative paper issues.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Slade Can Be Annoying

Holiday Inn’s administration (the one which is located in East London-Kensington area) had decided to eliminate one of the Slade’s songs from it’s playlist. It used to be the biggest Christmas hit way back in 1973, said The Daily Telegraph. Recently, this hotel’s residents constantly kept on complaining about the fact that “Merry Christmas Everybody” (watch it right here http://ru.youtube.com/watch?v=niIJ9Yb-xwQ) is extremely annoying and they cannot take it anymore. Holiday Inn London-Kensington’ representative said that this is the only song which was literally deleted from their playlist. Also, she has mentioned that they are ready to look after any future complaints too. Interesting, is it the first time when people actually went on to ask for something like this?  Funny anyway!  Well, old stuff is not always good, especially if it turns to be extremely boring. What about airing something less ‘goofy’? Sex Pistols for example…

Slade became very popular in the beginning of 1970’s and was often heard in the British night clubs during Christmas time. Due to this kind of demand they’ve appeared on the British music charts for more than once.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

McCartney Didn't Steal Anything

Sir Paul McCartney has denied any accusations of plagiarism, specifically underlining that his melody “Light From Your Lighthouse” (it was made up by his solo project The Fireman and can be heard on the album called “Electric Arguments”) could not be taken from anywhere else, but his own mind, said New Musical Express. Recently, McCartney was accused of stealing Blind Willie Johnson’s melody “Let Your Light Shine On Me”, but he said that this song only worked as a source of inspiration and nothing else. Also, he noted that Johnson himself had interpreted the famous American gospel melody, and therefore it belongs to a folklore-like un-authorized piece of musical creation. In other words, what is in the hands of history may be in everybody’s hands too. “His is a traditional song and this is not the first time an artist has made their own version using such a traditional song.” Quite simple…

“Electric Arguments” was released in November 2008 and became the number three in The Fireman’s discography. This band includes McCartney and an ex-Killing Joke bassist Martin Glover, also known as Youth.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

The Sound of 2009

BBC began to publish the list that supposedly includes the most promising musicians of 2009. Fortune telling which is mixed up with some analysis may not be very clear and solid when speaking of musical talents. In other words, only time will tell. The Sound of 2009 incorporates fifteen names made up primarely by the music journalists. Soon various experts should identify the last ten names that sound totally cool and promising. All the names which are located in between 5–10 shall be announced on January 5. After this day BBC representatives will name the rest of the lucky ones, and on January 9 we’ll know who made it to the first spot. Practically, here are some bands and artists that belong to the Sound of 2009: White Lies, Empire of the Sun, The Temper Trap, Passion Pit, (solo) VV Brown, Dan Black, Master Shortie and others. Actually, this list is set up from those who were not able to make it big in the undustry during the last twelve months.

The Sound of 2008 was lead by Adel, in 2007 by Mika, and in 2006 the winner turned to be Corinne Bailey Rae.

2005 – American indie-rockers The Bravery

2004 – The British band Keane

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Amazon Goes British

Amazon.com began to sell out the copyright unprotected music all around the UK, writes Musically. Previously this MP3 service worked only in the United States, and now it’s British version is offering 256kpbs quality (actually equal to it’s American counterpart) sound, notied T3. The regular price starts with 59 pences per track, but some of them may jump to 80. Albums cost is also ranging in around 6,49 pounds. Free music is still better, but it’s not the worst price anyway… On the other hand a lot of popular albums, especially if they’re absolutely new (for example, Take That’s “The Circus”, Kings of Leon, Coldplay or Girls Aloud) go only for three pounds. The UK’s version of Amazon lacks some groups that were released on the independent labels such as Oasis or Arctic Monkeys. In the beginning of 2008 Amazon had signed business agreements practically with all the major record labels, so things are moving with the universal speed. 

Amazon MP3 was created during the autumn of 2007 and is considered to be one of the biggest rivals to another MP3 giant Apple iTunes Store. It looks like their ‘war’ is making things better when it comes down to prices, even though the free music sounds better no matter what. Isn’t it true?

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Velvet Revolver Is About To Make Changes

Velvet Revolver is planning to invite Million Dollar Reload’s Phil Conalane for the role of a new frontman, said Music Radar citing this news to those who are closely related with the band. Currently, an Irish group Million Dollar Reload is almost unknown and it may be the big push for them and exclusively for Conalane. Good luck to everybody. Earlier this year all the former Guns N’ Roses guys worked together with Scott Veiland, but in April he was kicked out for having a ‘terrible personality’. Soon after that Veiland had reunited with his original band Stone Temple Pilots and released a solo album “Happy in Galoshes”. Of course, Velvet Revolver began to search for the replacement, but without having any success until now. As the Music Radar thinks Phil Conalane was particularly invited by Steven Adler (ex-Guns N’ Roses drummer). It is also known that Phil was welcomed by the band Stone Gods (former The Darkness), but most likely he is going to choose Velvet Revolver. At this time there is no official prove from ‘Revolver’ that he is their new frontman, but Radar’s information is usually quite solid.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

#2 For "Chinese Democracy"

Guns N’ Roses leader Axl Rose is being accused of not making the band’s new album “Chinese Democracy” get on top of the British charts during the first week of sales, said The Daily Telegraph. The release of this album was awaited for fifteen years, and now it was able to reach only number two allowing The Killers’ “Day & Age” take over the number one spot. One of the Geffen records representatives has told the press that Axl Rose had to use more effort to make “Chinese Democracy” way more popular, but instead of that he just decided to disappear from everybody’s view for two months right before the release. “The label is really glad to have him back but it is frustrating because the album would have had a much better chance of going to number one if only he had been prepared to show his face,” he noted.

The release of “Chinese Democracy” was facing various difficulties including the fact that it was worked out for fifteen years. It was constantly postponed without any visible reasons, and possibly only indolence can explain such a “good” thing. Eventually it was out on November 23 getting an excellent feedback and respect from the fans.  Right now the new album is available at the band’s official MySpace web page.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

The Grammy Award, Queen And Many More

The double single made by the legendary British rock band Queen “We are the Champions/We Will Rock You”, which was released back in 1977 is now included in the Grammy’s Hall of Fame, said Gigwise. Also, this American music award was given to another twenty eight rock songs. Among them are “Synchronicity”-1983 (The Police), “For Once in My Life”-1986 (Stevie Wonder), “The Star Spangled Banner” that was performed by Jimmie Hendrix, “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd, and “Love Theme” (soundtrack for The Godfather – 1972). The Hall of Fame will become a part of the Grammy’s museum, which is about to re-open on December 6 in Los Angeles. This infamous museum was created in 1973 and consists of 826 names. The list of new albums and songs that are getting into the Hall of Fame are being annually updated. Those who are choosing the right songs and albums should belong to all parts of the music recording industry. However, only fans are those who trully identify the greatness of music. Professionals are just creating brands, but they’re not creating. Music historians may belong to the best of professionals who are ‘recording’ what was really respected by the fans.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Live Earth India 2008 Was Cancelled

Live Earth India music festival which was about to start on December 7, 2008 in Mumbai was cancelled due to the recent tragic events that took place in this city, said France Presse. Right now it is absolutely impossible to stay happy and listen to music. “Due to circumstances far beyond our control, we are saddened to announce that Live Earth India has been cancelled…”, said the festival’s organizers, which also include the ex-vice president of the U.S. Albert Gore. Previously it was planned that Live Earth India 2008 as much as the last year’s event shall be dedicated to the problem of the global warming. Live Earth charity concerts began in 2007. It took place in Rio De Janeiro, London, New York, Hamburg, Johannesburg, Shanhai, Sydney and Tokyo. Such famous artists as Madonna, The Police, Smashing Pumpkins, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Beastie Boys, Duran Duran, Genesis, Foo Fighters, Black Eyed Peas, Metallica and Bon Jovi were participating in it. This time it’s not going to happen.

Following the last information 195 were killed (20 of them were foreign citizens) and 295 were injured as the result of the terrorist attack in Mumbai (former Bombey) during the last week.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

U2 Will Go Out Later

U2 is postponing the release of their new album due to the lack of two songs that should be on it, said New Musical Express. What actually had happened to them and why this is the only reason not to release it? Originally, the release of their 12th album was planned on November 14, but in September musicians have announced the fact that everything will be going out later – approximately in the beginning of 2009. At the same time the band’s leader Bono kept on saying that they have up to 50/60 new songs. However, they still don’t have those two additional songs to make the new release moving on. Most likely the new album will be called “No Line On The Horizon”, and it’s being produced by Brian Eno, Daniel Lanois, including Steve Lillywhite. Also U2 was co-working with the infamous Rick Rubin, but as the band’s guitarist The Edge told the press everything what was made together with him is now thrown away and will not appear on the album. “He [Rick] gave us great advice as much as anything. His whole thing is, ‘Don’t go near the studio until you know exactly what you want to do’, which of course, is the opposite of how we usually work.”

The previous U2 album “How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb” was released in 2004.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Metallica Backs The Internet

Metallica is looking at the possibility of releasing their new record through the Internet. This information was given to a Rolling Stone magazine by Lars Ulrich (drummer). This is quite amazing, especially after the scandal which surrounded Metallica after their legal battle with Napster. Many people began to see this band as greedy as no one else in the music industry. Such an interesing move sounds extremely promising and cool. “We’re free of our record contract. We have that element of complete freedom with the next record, so we can do whatever we want. We could do an Internet thing or even put it on Andy Greene’s record label.” Could they free themselves ten years ago? Probably not… Besides that, Metallica is not planning to return to a studio right now because they’re still very tired from the previous recording process (“Death Magnetic”). Currently the band is touring in around the US in support of it.

Isn’t it amazing that Metallica wants to spread it’s next album through the Internet? Nevertheless, “Death Magnetic” (2008) saw the first light exclusively online just ten days before it’s official release. It sounds like Ulrich began to believe in progress and the irreversibility of it’s influence on music.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Elizabeth Fraser Comes Back

Cocteau Twins vocalist Elizabeth Fraser had created the ‘super band,’ said NME. This cool project is going to be called The Hookham Boys, which should include a lot of musicians who have once worked together with Massive Attack, Spiritualized, post-punk group Echo And The Bunnymen, and the British electronic band Goldfrapp. Particularly, Fraser’s new band shall incorporate the following list of musicians: Damon Reece, Alex Lee (Placebo, Suede and Goldfrapp), Sean Cook, Joe Allen from Strangelove, and Jake Brockman. The first concert where The Hookham Boys shall perform is going to take place today (November 26) in London. Money that will be earned from this event should go to the charity organization called the Teenage Cancer Trust.

A lot of fans see this project as the revival of The Cocteau Twins, or another page in the life story of Elizabeth Fraser. This band fell apart back in 1997 after the release of their last album, “Milk and Kisses” (1996). In 2007 Twins’ began to work with the new studio material spreading rumours about the upcoming release. In October 2008 Cocteau Twins have appeared at Q Awards ceremony receiving the Inspiration Award. So far everything sounds very promising, and lets hope that Fraser will keep on going with The Hookham Boys.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Slash Is About To Record With Ozzy

  

 

An ex-Guns N’ Roses guitar player and a current member of Velvet Revolver Slash is planning to release the solo album. This information was spread by NME with the reference to his wife Perla Hudson. Recently, she gave an interview to The Rockerrazzi, which later posted it on the YouTube. Hudson told them that Slash wants to invite his friends to make this new record, and it turned out that Ozzy Osbourne is most likely will be participating. Also, Slash’s best friends list may include Black Eyed Peas vocalist and a solo performer Fergie. The exact date is of course not known so far because all this information is extremely unreliable and uncertain. However, it is well known that Hudson was never caught up lying about his husband’s music career, so lets believe everything she said. Plus there are good rumours taken out from some other sources on the fact that Slash had already recorded fourteen songs which most likely will be presented on the album.

In 2009 Slash will perform at the Quart music festival in Norway as the headliner, and soon after everybody may see him touring in around the UK. Everything what deals with Velvet Revolver (which was created by Slash and two other Guns N’ Roses members, bassist Daff McKagan and drummer Matt Sorum in 2002) is noted by it’s search for a new vocalist.

Perla Hudson’s interview: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rX9L5zPUQA&eurl=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=109525

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

The Vatican And The Beatles

Vatican had openly excused John Lennon for his phrase were he was comparing The Beatles to Jesus by saying that the band is actually more famous. This information is now available at the L’Osservatore Romano webiste – the official Catholic newspaper. Back in 1966 Lennon gave an interview to one of the London’s newspapers saying that, “Christianity will disappear. It shall shrink and go away. We are more popular than Jesus”. “Back than this phrase began to spread a lot of angry talks, but today it sounds like a joke said by a young man who stepped his game up from the working class to the greatest fame of all times”, noted L’Osservatore Romano. According to the Church the real talent behind The Beatles stands in their specific ability to write popular songs which contain happiness and euphoria. In contrast, today popular music is standardised, full of stereotypes and totally lacks what The Beatles were doing. It seems quite true, modern music is the repitition of the same stuff again and again. Since the 90’s there is almost nothing new. Styles are the same, lyrics are the same and of course music videos are the same. Modern times need modern Beatles.

http://www.vatican.va/news_services/or/or_eng/index.html

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Live Earth 2008

An ex-Pink Floyd bassist Roger Waters, who is currently performing as a solo artist shall headline the Live Earth music festival. It should take place on December 7 in the Indian city of Mumbai (former Bombey), said Gigwise. Legendary Waters stands on top, and makes things moving! Also, all kinds of other musicians are planning to show up. Approximately, the list should be quite long, but for right now only two musicians have confirmed their future presence. William Adams from Black Eyed Peas, who is better known as Will.I.Am and Bon Jovi. Of course this event shall include local Indian artists, but their names are not very well known in the Western media. Viewers from India, Hong-Kong and other Asian countries will be able to see this concert live. Others may be able to observe it exclusively on the Internet.

Live Earth was started in 2007. Back then it incorporated various concerts all around the globe including Rio De Janeiro, London, New York, Hamburg, Johannesburg, Shanhai, Sydney and Tokyo. Total number of TV and live viewers included nearly two billion people wordwide. One of the festival’s organizers is the ex-US vice president and the Noble prize laureate Albert Gore.  

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Over The Rainbow

Former The Rainbow musicians Joe Lynn Turner, Tony Kerry, Bobby Rondinelli and Greg Smith are planning to create the joint music project together with Ritchie Blackmore’s son Jurgen (Ritchie Blackmore is the legendary founder of Deep Purple). This new band is going to be called Over The Rainbow, said Blabbermouth.net. Kerry used to participate in The Rainbow during 1975–1978 period, Turner and Rondinelli have joined it in 1980. Smith was the latest guy who played in the band from 1994 to 1997. Over The Rainbow project shall include Turner as a vocalist, Kerry as a keyboardist, Rondinelli as a drummer, Smith as a bassist, and Blackmore Jr. as a guitarist. The last one has agreed to join a group after understanding the impact it had on music fans. The whole idea of reunion changed his mind. Right after The Rainbow fell apart in 1997 all these musicians keep on hearing numerous wishes to make it going again. Also, musicians are designing the world tour and possibly will start making another record. Reunions are great, especially when they’re including new people from the younger generation. Blackmore Jr. perfectly represents this new generation, plus he continues his father’s task by playing rock n’ roll.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Neil Finn Is About To Incorporate Everybody

Crowded House vocalist Neil Finn has a wish to record the charity album, said Billboard. He is going to co-work with such musicians as Radiohead’s drummer Ed O’Brien, Phil Selway, the band Wilco in its full line-up, Johnny Marr (The Smiths and Modest), Soul Coughing’s bassist Sebastian Steinberg and a singer Lisa Germano. So far this future album is not carrying any name, but it’s about to be recorded very soon in Oakland with the help of Jimmy Scott, and shall be released in 2009. In January all these musicians will give the joint concert (possibly more than one). This interesting project is the continuation of the concert album “Seven Worlds Collide” (this name was taken from one of the Crowded House’s songs “Distant Sun”), which was released in 2001. “Seven Worlds Collide” was also made up by lots of cool people and bands including Wilco and Pearl Jam frontman Eddy Vedder.

All profits made from the new album will be given to Oxfam charity organization.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

"Carnival of Light" Shall Go Public

Soon Sir Paul McCartney is going to release previously unknown The Beatles’ song “Carnival of Light”, said the British weekly The Observer. The improvised fourteen minutes long composition was recorded way back on January 5, 1967 in the Abbey Road studio (North London) while making the infamous “Penny Lane”. “Carnival of Light” is mixed with the variety of noizes including human voices, psychedelic sounds and the church organ. This song was performed, or actually played as a record during the electronic music festival at the Roundhouse theatre in London. Listeners were not aware of the fact who actually made this record. The Beatles themselves decided not to release it, thinking that it’s just too strange to be understood. However, forty years later McCartney has changed this opinion. In one of the recent interviews to BBC (see it on the following week) Sir Paul said that he still keeps this record and would like to release it. At the same time he added that he was planning to do it in 1996 together with the release of “Anthology”, but George Harrison has convinced him not to continue. 

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

A New Drummer For Nine Inch Nails

Nine Inch Nails have found a new drummer to replace Josh Freese who had announced his wish to leave the band just a few months ago. Ilan Rubin from Lastprophets is going to be this new guy, said Blabbermouth.

Freese has told about his idea to leave NIN in October, and specifically underlined the fact that he is about to stay until December, when their North American tour is over. All kinds of rumours are saying that a twenty-year-old Rubin is about to join Nails in the beginning of 2009. Nine Inch Nails’ frontman and unchageable leader Trent Reznor has written on the band’s official web site that Rubin is going to be their new drummer, and later this info was picked up by the others. Reznor has pointed out his admiration of Lostprophets and specifically Rubin’s talent, “I had the chance to see Ilan playing his ass off at Reading and Leeds. a couple summers ago and he blew me away. We recently invited him out to rehearse with us and he blew US away – the perfect guy to pick up the sticks after Josh leaves us at the end of the year.”

Ilan Rubin began to play drums when he was only eight years old when he found his father’s drum set in the garage. Besides drums he’s playing guitar and a keyboard.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Another Movie About Grateful Dead

Grateful Dead’s leader Jerry Garcia will be the main character in a movie made about him and his band, said Billboard. Albert Berger and Ron Yerxa are going to produce it. These two directors (producers) have already created such movies as “Little Miss Sunshine”, “Cold Mountain” and “Election”. Everyone is sure that they’re capable of making something really good about Jerry. The base for scenario shall include episodes that were described by Robert Greenfield in his book about Garcia “Dark Star”. Robert’s work incorporates various stories about Grateful Dead’s frontman, which were told by his close friends. Who exactly will play Jerry’s role is not know yet. Producers are saying that their movie will show Garcia’s early days when his music interests and talents began to show up. Also, these guys are planning to focus upon the roots of Grateful Dead, this band’s influences and later growth. However, this move is not the first one which shall describe Grateful Dead. Way back in 1977 Jerry Garcia himself made a move about his musical creation called “The Grateful Dead Movie”.

http://www.jerrygarcia.com/ Jerry Garcia’s official website.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

R.E.M., Stipe And T-Shirts

R.E.M. vocalist Michael Stipe had participated in the project organized by Lacoste (clothing designers and producers). This information just showed up on the Rolling Stone website. Stipe had personally designed the whole line of t-shirts. He has noted that, “I’ve created a monumental two tone photographic image depicting a crowd at a stadium concert from the perspective of a performer on the stage”. In order to see how this new stuff looks like anyone can check it out on the Lacoste web page: http://www.lacoste.com/michaelstipe/. T-shirts that were designed by Stipe are made in four colour variations: grey, deep red, black/white and deep green. An approximate price (men and women models) may go up to three hundred dollars. Pretty expensive, and again sounds less like rock n’ roll because everything what belongs to the real rock culture should be way cheaper. High society culture is on the move, not the real rock n’ roll, but cool anyway.

R.E.M. itself is currently on tour in South America. On November 11 they’ve performed at a concert in Brazil.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Fatboy Slim Puts Everyone Together

DJ Norman Cook who is better known under his nickname Fatboy Slim had announced the release date of his new album. This work is the first product made by his side project Brighton Port Authority (BPA), said New Musical Express. “I Think We’re Gonna Need a Bigger Boat” shall become available in February, 2009. Surprisingly, BPA was made with some valuable help from Iggy Pop, David Byrne (ex-leader of the British new wave band Talking Heads), and the British house-rap star Dizzy Rascal. Dizzy was participating in the Basement Jaxx’s production of “Lucky Star”. Besides these musicians, “I Think We’re Gonna Need a Bigger Boat” incorporates Martha Wainwright (folk singer), and two other British musicians Jamie T and Jack Penate. The best part about this thing is that so many brilliant people are taking part in it. Fatboy Slim will never stop innovating and changing himself, and that’s why so many fans shall never stop admiring him.

Anybody can check out more about this incredible music project on this web page – http://www.thebrightonportauthority.com/

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Ultravox Comes Back

The British band Ultravox had reunited in it’s “classic” line-up, said Billboard. In April 2009 they’re planning to start touring around the UK, and so far it is confirmed that they shall visit London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Bristol and some other cities (totally fourteen concerts). Right now there is no information on the fact that Ultravox is planning to record the new album. Vocalist/guitarist Midge Ure,  keyboardist Billy Currie, bassist Chris Cross and drummer Warren Cann will perform together for the first time since 1985. Practically, nobody remembers them playing together after the infamous Live Aid concert. Ultravox which always produced the “new wave” sounds was formed in London (1976). During their career they’ve recorded ten studio albums, among which “Vienna” (1980), and “Quartet” (1980) may be called the most prominent. In 1988 the band fell apart and came back again in 1992–1996, but with the different line-up. This time they’ll look original.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

The Last Shadow Puppets (It's Over Now)

The British musicians Alex Turner and Miles Kane have finished their joint project – The Last Shadow Puppets, said The Sun. On November 3 the band had performed at it’s last concert in Los Angeles, (North American tour) after which they’ve officially stated a wish to go back to their original groups – Arctic Monkeys and The Rascals. The Last Shadow Puppets were pretty good, and like it often happens may come back sometimes later. It was formed in the beginning of 2008, producing “The Age of the Understatement”  and three singles. This album was warmly welcomed by the fans and critics while conquering a number one on the British charts. “The Age of the Understatement” was nominated for the prestigeous Mercury Prize award, but failed due to Elbow’s victory (“The Seldom Seen Kid” album). Turner and Kane are not sure what they’re going to do with this project. At least it is confirmed that Turner will soon start recording the Arctic Monkey’s third album, and The Rascals shall do the same.   

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Damon Albarn Wants To Reunite Blur

The British performer Damon Albarn had announced a wish to reunite his first music project - Blur, said The Guardian. Seriously, what a great news for those who like this band. Just a few days ago Albarn has told BBC that recently he met with the former Blur guitarist Graham Coxon to discuss these plans. In the 90’s Blur was one of the most prominent brit-pop bands, which was formed in London (1989). During their career they’ve released seven studio albums, and the last one “Think Tank” was produced in 2003. Practically, it was recorded withon Coxon, and since then this band did not exist anymore.

At this time Albarn had started to produce and manage some side projects, which included Gorillaz and The Good, the bad and the Queen. “Monkey: Journey To The West” opera also belongs to his creative talent. Graham Coxon had released the number of solo albums, and currently helps Peter Doherty (The Libertines and Babyshambles) in making of some fresh sounds. Blur’s drummer Dave Rowntree keeps on trying to enter the London’s city council (The Labour Party), but so far without any success. Bassist Alex James is doing an unusual business, he’s producing the new type of cheese which is called “Blue Monday”.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

MTV Europe Music Awards 2008

MTV surprised Sir Paul McCartney with granting him an honourable award, which is designed specifically for him, said BBC News. The “Ultimate Legend” is going to be given to him in his hometown of Liverpool today (November 6) during the MTV Europe Music Awards ceremony. As the music channel’s representatives say, McCartney turned to be one of the most influential artists of all times and definitely deserves this prize. Generations of people were growing up with his music and the Ultimate Legend should belong to him. The British newspaper The Mirror says that this award will be given to an ex-Beatle by a U2 frontman Bono. There is no information about McCartney’s upcoming performance at the ceremony, but it’s organizers believe that he shall sing a few ones just with the help of his guitar and no other musicians. 

The band Coldplay is now foreseen to be the favourite of this year’s ceremony. Also, the list of favourites may include Britney Spears and Duffy. Beyonce, Pink, Take That and The Killers should be just performing, and will they steal a few trophies too is not known so far.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Ozzy, Foo Fighters and Rock N' Roll Fame

On November 3 London was witnessing another Classic Rock N’ Roll Of Honour ceremony, which is always greatfully organized by the “Classic Rock” magazine, said The Daily Telegraph. As the result of it a lot of great bands have received cheers and gifts. Foo Fighters were proclaimed to be the coolest band of this year, and the best album went to Whitesnake’s “Good To Be Bad”. The most ‘successful new band’ nomination was given to the Australian group Airborne. Led Zeppelin was honoured for their O2 Arena concert in London, and Ozzy Osbourne was named to be the living legend. This prize was given to Ozzy by another legendary figure Slash (Guns n’ Roses lead guitarist). After receiving it Ozzy began to joke, “I hope I don’t die on the way home,” also noting that, “I couldn’t be happier to know that Classic Rock haven’t written me off!”. In other words, legends, fame and cool jokes, things are moving in their traditional direction, and maybe that’s exactly the way it should always be, even if they’re often the same.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

AC/DC and Excel

AC/DC turned to be the first band to release a video for the computer software program. They’ve produced one for the Microsoft Excel, said Rolling Stone. Their song “Rock N’ Roll Train” was written with the use of symbols, letters and numbers. It can be activated right in the mentioned above program, and may look very surprising to many of AC/DC’s fans. XLS format shall perform some extra fun. “Rock N’ Roll Train” became the first single on their new album ‘Black Ice’, which was long awaited since the release of “Stiff Upper Lip” in 2000. ‘Black Ice’ proved to be quite successful by climbing towards number one during the first week of sale in twenty nine countries. AC/DC guys have already started the world tour in support of this new release.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9_YkXHCkgA

http://www.acdcrocks.com/excel/

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Armin Van Buuren Rules Over The Trance Scene

DJ Mag magazine was recently making some cool charts in order to identify and name the world’s best DJ (as of 2008). The first three spots were taken by the Dutch guys: 1) Armin van Buuren, 2) DJ Tiesto, 3) Paul van Dyk. It definitely means that trance music still remains to be the most popular dance/party style, and nothing seems to be moving it away from the scene.  At least a lot of music experts are actually agreeing on such a fact. Armin himself was becoming better as a musician since 1995 and eventually was voted to be the number one. Practically, the European dance music stands on him and the following two sound creators. This list also includes David Guetta, Sasha, John Digweed and of course Infected Mushroom.

The second chart (11–20) includes Carl Cox, Paul Oakenfold, Richie Hawtin and James Zabiela. A French group Daft Punk ended up only at the 38^th place. Benny Benassi and Bob Sinclair went down to numbers 39/40.  

http://www.djmag.com/

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Duran Duran Goes On Top

Duran Duran’s “A View To A Kill” is now considered to be the best ‘Bondiana’ headlining song. James Bond and Duran Duran, sounds very optimistic – for real. This information is supported by the results of questioning carried out by the Gigwise music portal. Surely it’s readers were not mistaken. “A View To A Kill” was written by Duran Duran together with John Barry as a theme for this movie back in 1985. The second place is taken by Shirley Bassey’s “Goldfinger” which was presented in 1964. The third spot was given to Sir Paul McCartney’s “Live and Let Die” – 1973. Until this day many viewers and critics believe that those musicians who are being presented in ‘Bondiana’ are the best. It cannot be reversed or changed because definitely they’re worth of it. Here is the full list of names:

1. Duran Duran – “A View To A Kill”

2. Shirley Bassey – “Goldfinger”

3. Paul McCartney – “Live And Let Die”

4. Carly Simon – “Nobody Does It Better”

5. Shirley Bassey – “Diamonds Are Forever”

6. Nancy Sinatra – “You Only Live Twice”

7. Matt Monro – “From Russia With Love”

8. Louis Armstrong – “We Have All The Time In The World”

9. Tina Turner – “GoldEye”

10. Alicia Keys and Jack White – “Another Way To Die”

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Top Thirteen

“The king of rock n’ roll” Elvis Presley was again proclaimed to be the richest dead celebrity, said Reuters. The list of richest dead stars is annually set up by the Forbes magazine, and it seems not to change a lot. From October 2007 to October 2008 his successors have received fifty two million dollars. Good pay for doing nothing! Most of these money came from Presley’s memorial mansion Graceland, and all kinds of projects like the program broadcasted by a Sirius Satellite Radio.

The second spot on this list was taken by Charles Schulz, an author of “Peanuts”. This infamous comics about Snoopy and Charlie Brown was able to pull out thirty three million dollars. Another group of lucky successors because right now it’s all about their success. The third place goes to Heath Ledger, and his achievemnt is mostly due to the last movie in which he played one of the major roles – “The Dark Knight”. It brought up twenty million dollars.

The rest of it looks like this:  4. Albert Einstein (due to Disney’s brand “Baby Einstein”), 5. Aaron Spelling, 6. Theodor Geisel, 7. John Lennon, 8. Andy Warhol, 9. Marilyn Monroe, 10. Steve McQueen, 11. Paul Newman, 12. James Dean, 13. Marvin Gaye.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Punk Memorabilia

Christie’s is going to lead an auction in New York selling all kinds of things that are somehow connected to the punk culture, said AP. A major sale should take place on November 24 this year. Totally, it must include 120 lots! All sorts of objects, flyers and outfits that can trace their origin to Sex Pistols, Velvet Underground, Ramones, Smiths, Cure, Patty Smith, David Bowie and Blondie may be found in the process. Possibly, it will be more like a one-day museum instead of an auction, hence so many rare and historical possessions shall be observed. For example, there will be a flyer to one of the first Clash concerts, or some promo photographs signed by Sex Pistols. Christie’s representatives are saying that this auction is the biggest out of all the others which have ever concentrated within the punk music culture. It may also incorporate many things that are just part of this wider rock n’ roll agenda. Some rumours speak of John Lennon’s portative organ and Kurt Cobain’s first guitar that was heard on his original demo records.

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Led Zeppelin Shall Tour Without Plant

Led Zeppelin’s bass guitarist John Paul Johns has approved and confirmed some old information about the fact that his legendary band is about to start the world tour without Robert Plant, said Gigwise. After Zeppelin’s historical concert in London last year various rumours kept on giving hopes that Plant will return. However, a singer just denied everything by saying that nothing can be more funny than to think of his come back. Many fans thought that these denials are strange, unbelievable and even slightly rude. After all, why can’t this guy do something with his present in order to restore the past? Alison Kraus, a country singer with whom Plant was recently recording and touring is often blamed for his stubborn position – classical situation by the way.

Currently, the band is searching for someone else who will be able to replace this difficult going musician. Those may be, Miles Kennedy (Alter Bridge), Jack White (White Stripes) and possibly Steven Tyler (Aerosmith).

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com

Snoop Dogg Keeps On Balling With Massive Attack

Snoop Dogg has recorded a new song together with some members of a British trip-hop group Massive Attack Robert Del Naja (3D) and Grantley Marshall (Daddy G), said Pitchfork. This cool track was named “Calling Mumia” and will be included in Mark Evans’ documentary “In Prison My Whole Life”.  A joint project is called 100 Suns and inspires the whole variety of new hopes and dreams. Snoop plus Massive Attack! These types of combinations cannot stay away from those who worth something new and a little bit rebelious. Evans’ film was released in the UK during the last weekend (anyone can check it out – great piece of work, drama and reality), and “Calling Mumia” is now available on Massive Attack’s official website.

The most recent album produced by Snoop Dogg “Ego Trippin” was released in March 2008. Lots of fans are waiting for his new stuff to come out sometime in the beginning of 2009. On the other hand Massive Attack is more silent these days; their collection of hits “Collected” saw the light in 2006.

http://www.massiveattack.co.uk/

A Source: ThatsJustMusic.com