All posts by KJ

ROBERT JON & THE WRECK release new single from forthcoming EP, announce UK tour

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SOUTHERN ROOTS ROCKERS ROBERT JON & THE WRECK RELEASE CAPTIVATING ROCK BALLAD, “WHO CAN YOU LOVE”

Produced by the legendary, multi-GRAMMY Award winner Don Was, the song will be featured on the band’s new EP ‘One Of A Kind,’ released 10 March 2023 via Journeyman Records

Southern roots rockers Robert Jon & The Wreck have released  “Who Can You Love,”  the captivating, Americana-infused second single from their new EP  One Of A Kind,  out March 10th via Joe Bonamassa’s  newest independent label, Journeyman Records. Produced by the renowned, multi-GRAMMY Award winning producer Don Was (Bonnie Raitt, The Stones, John Mayer),  “Who Can You Love” was recorded at Hensen Studios in Los Angeles (the same studio that gave us legendary albums including Tapestry by Carole King and “Blue” by Joni Mitchell, and many others). 

With its infectious melodies, catchy riffs, and Americana sound, “Who Can You Love” showcases another side of the band following the release of the EP’s explosive lead single “Pain No More,” an outstanding riff-driven roots rock track produced by the eight-time Grammy Award winner Dave Cobb (Europe, Blackberry Smoke, Rival Sons). In contrast, “Who Can You Love” is a reflective, inward-looking track about questioning what you are looking for in a partner. From the uplifting lyrics and velvety vocals of Robert Jon to Henry James’ soul-stirring fretwork, “Who Can You Love” has all the makings of a timeless Southern Rock ballad. The Wreck’s latest track will be right at home alongside cherished classics like The Allman Brothers’ “Melissa” and Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Simple Man,” as well as modern gems like Chris Stapleton’s rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey” and John Mayer’s “Last Train Home (Ballad Version).”

Download the single (or watch the video!)  https://ktbarecords.com/streaming/robertjon/whocanyoulove/

“Who Can You Love” is the latest in a series of singles that Robert Jon & The Wreck will roll out over the next year, beyond the release of the One Of A Kind EP. Prolific songwriters with a wealth of new material who refuse to be constrained by traditional release strategies, the band’s new partnership with Journeyman Records affords them the opportunity to work with the world’s top producers and release a steady stream of high quality singles on an ongoing basis, cutting through the industry chaos and ensuring new music is accessible to fans as intended.

Reigning from Southern California, Robert Jon & The Wreck take the Southern rock sound from the east coast and make it their own. Since their inception in 2011, these four native Californians; Robert Jon Burrison (lead vocals, guitar), Andrew Espantman (drums, background vocals), Henry James Schneekluth (lead guitar, background vocals), and Warren Murrel (bass) have been electrifying audiences all over the world with their soaring guitar leads, rich vocal harmonies, and memorable tunes. Simply put, it is difficult to ignore when these talented musicians take the stage.

2020’s Last Light On The Highway garnered worldwide acclaim for the band and 2021’s  Shine A Light On Me Brother continued their upward trajectory, leading to a collaboration with Journeyman Records. They released two singles in early 2022  “Waiting For Your Man” and “She’s A Fighter.”  On September 30th, The Wreck released their latest album Wreckage Vol. 2.  which has paved the way for even more new and exciting music from the band.

LINKS:

Home Page

https://www.facebook.com/robertjonandthewreck

https://www.instagram.com/robertjonandthewreck

https://www.youtube.com/robertjonandthewreck

Peter Hesslein – Night Drive 3 out now.

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Peter Hesslein’s Night Drive 3 is out! The album contains 16 new cruising tracks, 15 being instrumental, and 1 song featuring vocals from former Lucifer’s Friend singer Mike Starrs. Night Drive 3 is a fun journey of different tunes highlighting Hesslein’s guitar work, as well as song creation with varying styles and keyboards. It is upbeat, brightly produced and the best of the 3, IMO. On how the guitarist approached the new album, Hesslein states:   “My way of developing music is always the same. First I start with a chord sequence or a guitar riff and at the same time I work out the melody, the playbacks, until the song is ready. then come the subtleties and sounds that make the track attractive.”

The disc’s last song “Chapters Of My Life” is an excellent ballad, and will be the highlight for Lucifer’s Friend fans, as it features the vocals of Mike Starrs, who sang on the band’s Good Time Warrior and Sneak Me In albums. Peter Hesslein explains how the song came about: “For the conclusion of the Night Drive trilogy, I wanted to make a song with vocals that could convey lyrics. After all these years, I also wanted to take up the topic “I Did it My Way”. Since Mike is also my age, it is fitting that he wanted to write the lyrics. After all, we have known each other for a very long time.” (Starrs has recorded with Crossover in recent years who have a new CD single out. As well Starrs’ 1974 solo album Electric Garden has also just been reissued on CD through Cherry Red).

Beyond the new album Peter Hesslein still has tracks that were planned for another Lucifer’s Friend album prior to John Lawton’s passing. These tracks require a collaboration with a singer, who can add lyrics as well. Hesslein also recently posted that he was happy with being featured in a new book on German metal, stating: “The book by Frank Schäfer is called “Heavy Kraut” – How Metal Came To Germany. It contains interviews of me and other companions. A very successful work, well researched. Thanks again to Frank Schäfer.” At this time the book is only available in German language.

*For more on Night Drive 3, check out the official press release below, as well as the links.

Peter Hesslein is an original founding member of the band Lucifer’s Friend and an accomplished guitarist. His first Night Drive album was meant to be a one-off, but its success prompted a sequel in Night Drive 2 and now the further demand, from fans, has led to a Night Drive 3.

Lucifer’s Friend was originally formed in Hamburg in 1970 by guitarist Peter Hesslein, singer John Lawton, bassist Dieter Horns, keyboardist Peter Hecht and drummer Joachim Reitenbach. Lucifer’s Friend reformed in 2015 and since then has recorded new studio albums and played concerts and high-profile festivals.

The last track on Night Drive 3, “Chapters of my Life,” features a guest appearance by former Lucifer’s Friend lead singer Mike Starrs.

Peter Hesslein said of his new studio album: “So now I’d like to share with you a third Night Drive album because I had a lot of messages asking about it.  When I started the idea, I thought the first Night Drive album would be on its own, but now fans have asked for two more albums for car journeys!  I am very grateful fans like this music and they want more from me!”

Night Drive 3 is OUT NOW and available via these links:
Amazon CD: https://geni.us/NightDrive3cd
Spotify: https://geni.us/PeterHessleinSP
Apple Music: https://geni.us/PeterHessleinAM
Also available directly from CherryRed: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/artists/peter-hesslein/

Links:

https://www.facebook.com/Lucifersfriendph

https://www.facebook.com/LucifersFriendOfficial

https://www.facebook.com/mikestarrsoflucifersfriendandcolosseumII

STEEL PANTHER release new video & tour dates

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Steel Panther have released a new video from their upcoming album On The Prowl. The song is “1987”, another track (see Nestor’s “1989”) that celebrates the ’80s.

With the recent announcement of their sixth studio album On The Prowl and the launch of their “Who’s Your Daddy(‘s Jokes)” series on YouTube, California rock legends Steel Panther have released another song from the upcoming album available worldwide on February 24, 2023. “1987” is a reflective look at one of the greatest years in rock music supported by unforgettable hooks, relatable lyrics and fretboard fireworks. Satchel, Michael Starr, Stix Zadinia and Spyder pay homage to the icons of the year including Guns N’ Roses, Poison, Whitesnake, Ozzy Osbourne and Van Halen to name a few. The music video was directed by longtime collaborator J.T. Arbogast and follows a young duo who find an abandoned recording studio. When one of the kids plugs in a hidden 1987 pedal (available for purchase HERE), he is transported to the time in the studio when Steel Panther recorded the song and lives the memories of 1987 in his own way.

To celebrate the release of “1987,” Steel Panther is also announcing a massive world tour in support of their latest release. The On The Prowl World Tour 2023 is set to kick off in February and will run throughout North America through April. Crobot and Tragedy will be joining the band on the North American tour. The band will take a short break before bringing the party  to the United Kingdom and Ireland in May. These new shows will be added to the 2022 year-end dates in Vancouver and the warmup weekends in January 2023 that were previously announced. Additional Information on all ticket and VIP packages including meet and greets, exclusive merch items, early entry and more for the On The Prowl World Tour 2023 can be found HERE.

On The Prowl World Tour 2023 Dates 
2/24/23 – Las Vegas, NV – House Of Blues 
2/25/23 – Anaheim, CA – House Of Blues 
2/26/23 – Tempe, AZ – The Marquee Theatre 
2/28/23 – San Antonio, TX – The Aztec Theater 
3/1/23 – Houston, TX – House Of Blues
3/3/23 – Dallas, TX – House Of Blues
3/4/23 – Oklahoma City, OK – Diamond Ballroom 
3/6/23 – Nashville, TN – Marathon Music Works
3/8/23 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL – Culture Room
3/10/23 – Orlando FL – The Plaza Live
3/11/23 – St. Petersburg, FL – Jannus Live
3/12/23 – Atlanta, GA – Buckhead Theatre
3/14/23 – Baltimore, MD – Rams Head Live
3/16/23 – New York, NY – Irving Plaza
3/17/23 – Philadelphia, PA – Keswick Theatre
3/18/23 – Sayreville, NJ – Starland Ballroom
3/19/23 – Worcester, MA – The Palladium
3/21/23 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore
3/22/23 – Columbus, OH – The Bluestone
3/24/23 – Indianapolis, IN – Egyptian Room
3/25/23 – Chicago, IL – House Of Blues
3/26/23 – Bloomington, IL – The Castle Theatre
3/28/23 – Milwaukee, WI – The Eagles Club Stage
3/29/23 – Minneapolis, MN – The Fillmore
3/31/23 – Lincoln, NE – Bourbon Theatre
4/1/23 – Denver , CO – The Fillmore
4/2/23 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Depot
4/4/23 – Portland, OR – Crystal Ballroom
4/6/23 – West Hollywood, CA – Whisky A Go Go
4/7/23 – West Hollywood, CA – Whisky A Go Go
4/8/23 – San Diego, CA – House Of Blues
5/14/23 – Glasgow, UK – O2 Academy
5/15/23 – Newcastle, UK – O2 City Hall 
5/17/23 – Manchester, UK – Academy 
5/18/23 – Birmingham, UK – O2 Academy
5/20/23 – London, UK – O2 Forum Kentish Town
5/21/23 – Bristol, UK – O2 Academy
5/23/23 – Leeds, UK – O2 Academy
5/25/23 – Belfast, UK – Ulster Hall
5/26/23 – Cork, IE – Cyprus Avenue
5/28/23 – Dublin, IE – Vicar Street

Previously Announced Tour Dates
12/29/22 – Vancouver, BC – Commodore Ballroom
12/30/22 – Vancouver, BC – Commodore Ballroom
1/5/23 – San Francisco, CA – The Fillmore
1/6/23 – Sacramento, CA – Ace Of Spades
1/7/233 – San Luis Obispo, CA – Fremont Theater
1/27/23 – Greensboro, NC – Piedmont Hall
1/28/23 – North Myrtle Beach, SC – House Of Blues
1/29/23 – Charlotte, NC – The Fillmore 

On The Prowl was produced by Steel Panther and is now available for pre-order in multiple configurations including CD, Cassette, and 2 different color variant vinyl records HERE.  From the opening synth intro of “Never Too Late (To Get Some Pu**y Tonight)” to the thunderous outro of “Sleeping On The Rollaway,” Steel Panther is back with the infectious riffs, pounding drums, unforgettable vocals alongside the witty humor that has earned them a global audience. Songs like “On Your Instagram,” “Magical Vagina” and “One Pump Chump” are sure to fit in on the biggest live stages next to the band’s most-memorable songs. “1987” is an incredible retro look at that unforgettable year and the band even slows things down on the reflective “Ain’t Dead Yet.” A music video for “Never Too Late (To Get Some Pu**y Tonight) was previously released and can be seen HERE.

Tracklisting:                                            
1)    Never Too Late (To Get Some Pu**y Tonight)
2)    Friends With Benefits
3)    On Your Instagram
4)    Put My Money Where Your Mouth Is
5)    1987
6)    Teleporter
7)    Is My D**k Enough (feat. Dweezil Zappa)
8)    Magical Vagina
9)    All That And More
10)  One Pump Chump
11)  Pornstar
12)  Ain’t Dead Yet
13)  Sleeping On The Rollaway

Steel Panther:  Michael Starr [lead vocals], Satchel [lead guitar], Spyder [bass], and Stix Zadinia [drums]

STEEL PANTHER ONLINE:
Website // Facebook // Instagram // Twitter

QUEENSRYCHE release new video, announce tour dates

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Ahead of a new US tour Queensryche have released a new video for the track “Sicdeth” from their excellent new album Digital Noise Alliance (released in October). The is an outstanding heavy cut, accompanied by a dark video directed Thomas Crane, A killDevil Films Production. Todd La Torre shares: “‘Sicdeth’ is an abstract tale about convicted killers and the fallout of those attached on both sides. How can the victims’ and the assailants’ families overcome such pain? The inmate now has only their mind with which to escape. The song lyrics discretely touch on the very polarizing convicted murderer Jody Arias. The video however was more tailored to the Aileen Wuornos case.” Check out the video below, and if you haven’t listened to Digital Noise Alliance – check that out! *Tour dates and info from the press release below.

TOUR:

Commenting on their upcoming live shows, QUEENSRŸCHE share, “We are very excited to be doing this headline tour in support of our most recent album, Digital Noise Alliance!

This touring package is amped up and very much looking forward to seeing all of you! Come on out and let’s have a great time together, as live music is as vibrant as ever once again!”

Direct support on the Digital Noise Alliance Tour comes from Marty Friedman, with Trauma opening the night for each show. A complete list of dates can be seen below.

QUEENSRŸCHE – 2023 Digital Noise Alliance Tour

wsg. Marty Friedman + Trauma
3/3/2023 – Orlando, FL @ The Plaza Live
3/4/2023 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Culture Room
3/5/2023 – Jacksonville, FL @ Florida Theatre
3/7/2023 – Destin, FL @ Club LA
3/9/2023 – San Antonio, TX @ The Vibes Event Center
3/10/2023 – Houston, TX @ Scout Bar
3/11/2023 – Dallas, TX @ House Of Blues
3/12/2023 – Midland, TX @ La Hacienda Event Center
3/14/2023 – Phoenix, AZ @ Marquee Theatre
3/16/2023 – Sacramento, CA @ Ace of Spades
3/17/2023 – El Cajon, CA @ House Of Blues
3/21/2023 – Portland, OR @ Crystal Ballroom
3/22/2023 – Seattle, WA @ The Neptune Theatre
3/24/2023 – Denver, CO @ Gothic Theatre
3/25/2023 – Kansas City, KS @ Knuckleheads Saloon
3/26/2023 – St. Louis, MO @ Delmar Hall
3/28/2023 – Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave
3/29/2023 – Ft. Wayne, IN @ The Clyde Theatre
3/31/2023 – Chicago, IL @ Concord Music Hall
4/1/2023 – Grand Rapids, MI @ The Intersection
4/2/2023 – Detroit, MI @ St. Andrews Hall
4/4/2023 – Columbus, OH @ Newport Music Hall
4/5/2023 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Roxian Theater
4/7/2023 – Boston, MA @ The Palladium
4/8/2023 – Huntington, NY @ The Paramount
4/10/2023 – New York, NY @ Irving Plaza
4/11/2023 – Baltimore, MD @ Soundstage
4/12/2023 – Charlotte, NC @ The Underground
4/14/2023 – Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl
4/15/2023 – Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade (Heaven)
4/16/2023 – St. Petersberg, FL @ Jannus Live

With a career that not only spans, but has charted the course of multiple genres, QUEENSRŸCHE remains a force in their own right. “Digital Noise Alliance”, QUEENSRŸCHE’s 16th studio album continues their ever-evolving legacy.

Once again teaming up with producer Zeuss (Rob Zombie, Hatebreed), “Digital Noise Alliance” not only refracts QUEENSRŸCHE’s past accomplishments but also pushes into the band’s future. It is the band effortlessly moving from strength to strength: immediate and thought-provoking.

Quintessentially QUEENSRŸCHE.

Previously released from “Digital Noise Alliance”
“In Extremis (Official Video)”
“Forest (Official Video)”
“Behind The Walls (Official Video)”
“Hold On (Official Video)”

QUEENSRŸCHE lineup:
Eddie Jackson – bass
Michael Wilton – guitar
Todd La Torre – vocals
Casey Grillo – drums
Mike Stone – guitar

QUEENSRYCHE ONLINE:
Website // Facebook // Instagram // Twitter

BARNABAS SKY announce new album, release new single, featuring Danny Vaughn

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The melodic hard rock all-star project BARNABAS SKY, led by German guitarist and songwriter Markus Pfeffer (LAZARUS DREAM/WINTERLAND), launches it’s sophomore album “What Comes To Light”!

 Stylistically, the project of the multi-instrumentalist from Kaiserslautern combines groovy guitar riffs, catchy choruses, distinctive voices of several singers with international reputation, spherical synth sounds and filigree solos to a timeless rock mélange way beyond short-lived trends.

 Once again on board are TYKETTO’s Danny Vaughn as well as SILENT RAGE’s Jesse Damon, whereby the former impresses with energetic vocals on the title track and the latter is supported with choirs by AOR legend PAUL SABU on the elegiac earworm “Grant Me A Wish From Heaven”. For the first time, Doogie White (RAINBOW, ALCATRAZZ, RISING FORCE etc.) is on board for the classic rock steam hammer “Circus Of Delight” as well as Dan Reed (DAN REED NETWORK) with the synth-hooked “Take A Ride”.

 Also featured are Roy Cathey (COLD SWEAT, THE FIFTH), Dirk Kennedy (HITTMAN), Carsten “Lizard” Schulz (DOMAIN, EVIDENCE ONE), Lee Small (SWEET, LIONHEART, PHENOMENA) and metal legend Alan Tecchio (WATCHTOWER). In addition to these already established singers, the exceptional vocal talent Deibys Artigas Venegas (PREINCARNATION) from Venezuela, who is just 30 years old, is on board as an insider tip.

 The impressive cover design was done by Stan W. Decker (POWERWOLF, MEGADETH etc.) and the mastering by Rolf Munkes at Empire Studios (MICHAEL SCHENKER, MAD MAX, VOODOO CIRCLE etc.).

photo: Christian Esche


Line-up: 
Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, Guitarsynth: Markus Pfeffer
Vocals: Danny Vaughn, Dan Reed, Doogie White, Jesse Damon, Roy Cathey, Dirk Kennedy, Lee Small, Carsten Lizard Schulz, Alan Tecchio, Deibys Artigas Venegas
Drums, Percussions: Thomas Rieder
Backing Vocals: Paul Sabu, Stephan Hugo
 
Links: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/barnabasskyband

North Carolina’s COSMIC REAPER issue new single from forthcoming split EP w/ENDTIME

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North Carolina’s stoner doom merchants COSMIC REAPER premiere their new song “Sundowner”, taken from the ‘Doom Sessions Vol.7‘ split EP with ENDTIME to be issued through Heavy Psych Sounds. The track is a slow, heavy cut, with a riff and sound that is reminiscent of early Sabbath. Check it out below!

Says COSMIC REAPER: “The song is about someone with a debilitating brain disease succumbing to paranoid hallucinations in the dark. We’re capable of creating a lot more horrors in our minds than we ever could in reality. With Sundowner, we went for something groovy, but foreboding, with an ending that descends into madness. But, more importantly, we hope this track makes you bang your head!”

💀 Listen to Cosmic Reaper’s new track “Sundowner” 💀
Also check out the Endtime single “Tunnel Of Life” 


Since their ignition in 2020, the ‘Doom Sessions‘ split series have been delivering steamroller after steamroller, packing together earth-shattering collaborations between the loudest stoner and doom acts of this world. From Conan to Bongzilla, Acid Mammoth, -(16)- and Grime, each ‘Doom Sessions‘ EP presents previously unreleased tracks from both bands involved while being wrapped in a devilish artwork design by Branca Studio. ‘Doom Sessions Vol.7‘ makes no exception, and the grim and unearthly synth-laden songs of Endtime match perfectly with the evil, slow and low spacey doom of Cosmic Reaper. 

Endtime / Cosmic Reaper
“Doom Sessions Vol. 7” split EP
Out January 13th on Heavy Psych Sounds

TRACKLIST:
1. Endtime – Tunnel of Life
2. Endtime – Beyond The Black Void
3. Cosmic Reaper – Sundowner
4. Cosmic Reaper – Dead and Loving It
5. Cosmic Reaper – King of Kings

ENDTIME started out in 2015 under the name Saturniids with the pure intention of creating apocalyptic and earth-shattering musical compositions. That name didn’t suit their needs or personality, so in 2019 they decided to change it to the more fitting name Endtime. They are the ambassadors for no tomorrow, fostering exploitation movies and aesthetics from the 1980s. Think Giallo, Carpenter and Cronenberg. They don’t believe in groove or swing. They turn amps up to 11, they cause ruptured eardrums and serious dysentery with their subatomic frequencies. ENDTIME are the music equivalent to a nuclear blast. Featuring former members of Obnoxius Youth, Undergång, Taiwaz and Noctum, their twisted and devastating brand of nihilistic doom tinged with a pervasive 80s horror aesthetic was described as “the music equivalent of a nuclear blast”. Their debut album ‘Impending Doom’ was released in 2021 on Heavy Psych Sounds.

Added links:

https://cosmicreaper.bandcamp.com/album/demon-dance

https://www.facebook.com/cosmicreapernc

https://www.facebook.com/Endtimedoom

https://www.heavypsychsounds.com/shop.htm

STEVE HILL Releases new single, new album & comic book!

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Canada’s Steve Hill, the acclaimed singer-songwriter recently celebrated his 25th year as a recording artist with his 12th album Dear Illusion, by No Label Records on Friday November 11, 2022.  Three years in the making, the new album is available from https://ffm.to/dearillusion.


Following the release of the album, Hill released the official music video “Don’t let The Truth Get In The Way (Of A Good Story)” .

The single is available to stream and download from https://ffm.to/goodstory.


“It took me a long time to finish “Don’t Let The Truth Get In The Way (Of A Good Story),” recollects Steve. “I started working on it six years ago after the Trump election. It’s about alternate truth, but it’s also about social media and our addiction to it. It’s also about pretending that everything is alright when it’s not. It’s about choosing to pretend because it’s easier than facing the truth when the truth doesn’t matter anymore.”

But that’s not all. To make the new album an even bigger means for celebration, Steve will release the limited edition “Dear Illusion” comic book. Physical copies of the comic are available HERE and the digital edition HERE.

“I’ve been dreaming doing a comic book for a long time,” reflects Steve. “Before I got into music, drawing was my passion. I wanted to write comics. I’ve collected them sporadically all my life until five years ago when it became an obsession. I think that comics are a great artform. It’s like song writing, in that tell a story in a short period of time. I get feelings out of some comics the same way that I get feelings from music. If you’ve read Alan Moore, Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, or Ed Brubaker, you know what I’m talking about.”


“I got in touch with comic book artist Rob Cannon through a mutual connection. He seemed like a good candidate to draw the cover of my previous album, “Desert Trip.” He did a fantastic job. I love that album cover. When the time came for “Dear Illusion,” it was obvious he was the go-to guy. What he did was even better than the one before. From there, the next logical step was the comic. He took the themes from the album, the visual landscape from “Desert Trip” and made it a metaphoric science fiction story that I could never have thought of, while retaining the essence and the meaning of the songs. That’s art.”

Known over the last ten years as a one-man band, on Dear Illusion, the multi-instrumentalist shares the spotlight with a horn section, The Devil Horns, as well as 7-time UK Blues Awards Drummer of the Year, Wayne Proctor (A.A. Williams, Oli Brown, King King, Ben Poole). Proctor also mixed and mastered the upcoming record.

 “I had a version finished right before the pandemic started,” says Steve. “It was slated for release in April 2020. There was no point in releasing it then, so I decided to wait. The sad context of the pandemic resulted in additional time for me to offer my fans the album I’m sure will meet their expectations for my 25th anniversary as a recording artist. I am proud of the work.”

“Ultimately, the results that we collectively achieved with the album, ended up reflecting both maturity and introspection. Overall, I feel like the album is telling that no matter what happens, you should give it everything you got and move on, be the best person you can be, and no matter what, the sun will rise again. Don’t dwell on suffering, and don’t forget about it, either. Even treat misfortune as a friend, slap it on the back and say, Thanks for teaching me.”

Dear Illusion – Track Listing

01 – All About The Love
02 – Keep It Together
03 – Everything You Got
04 – Dear Illusion
05 – Steal The Light From You
06 – Don’t Let The Truth Get In The Way (Of A Good Story)
07 – Follow Your Heart
08 – So It Goes
09 – She Gives Lessons In Blues
10 – Until The Next Time

Links:

http://www.stevehillmusic.com

http://www.stevehillmusic.bandcamp.com

https://www.facebook.com/stevehillmusic

https://www.youtube.com/c/SteveHillChannel/

https://nolabelrecords.store/?fbclid=IwAR3JVXm2M0MA6ZvueOKk5c1w9PUntqLSJmEGck3e4u7Ti35dmK4FjST9yb0

*top photo by ScottDoubt

LEAFLET: Finnish rockers release next single off upcoming album

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Finnish rockers LEAFLET will be releasing their sophomore album Something Beyond this coming January 2023 via Rockshots Records. The album follows their debut album “Outta Door” released through VR Label Finland in 2017.

The band recently shared their second single “Resonate” accompanied by a music video.

They comments: “Resonate is a song about a person who goes through an out-of-body experience realizing life is short and one has to live it once it lasts. This song is a reminder for us all in our daily grind that life is supposed to be enjoyed. Resonate was mainly composed in the heat of the day and thunderstorm of the night while visiting Bangalore, India. I am sure some of that atmosphere got subconsciously translated into the song as well.”

The track is available digitally – https://bfan.link/resonate-2​

Formed in 2013, LEAFLET is a four-piece hard rock band from Turku, Finland. Their music can be described as metal-infused American-style hard rock and while you might hear echoes of bands like Alter Bridge or Shinedown they have their own unique Nordic flavour. “Our musical cocktail is a blend of many things. Although we love the 80s, we are trying to keep our hard rock fresh and not follow the retro route”, the band says.

“With this album, we are definitely showing that rock music is alive and pumping! The album is full of catchy metal-influenced rock tunes that would fit perfectly in the heavy rotation of every rock radio station. The album has a lot of variety within the songs and we got a diverse selection of singles as well. Three very different singles trying to represent the entire album as well as possible. As singles, we got one heavy and hard-hitting tune, one straightforward and super catchy tune, and one fast-paced in-your-face type of tune. You should check out them all to see what you think! “

Album pre-order – https://bit.ly/LEAFLET_CD​

First single “Gonna Do It” at the following links:

Music Video: https://youtu.be/J6RFeUKWttI​
Digital: https://bfan.link/gonna-do-it

Links:

http://www.leafletband.com

https://www.facebook.com/leafletband

Instagram: @leafletband

STÖNER: announce new record – Boogie To Baja

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STÖNER is the supergroup formed by desert rock godfathers and long-time friends Brant Bjork (founding member of Kyuss, also former Fu Manchu), Nick Oliveri (Mondo Generator, former Kyuss and Queens of the Stone Age) and Ryan Güt (Brant Björk drummer). Their debut studio album Stoners Rule was released in the summer of 2021, and they quickly returned with their sophomore studio full-length Totally... in the spring of 2022, alongside an extensive tour across the US, Europe and Australia/New Zealand including appearances in the biggest festivals.  The band decided to keep on going and they recorded another EP set for February 24th, 2023.

“During the recording of ‘Totally…​​,​’​ we were having a blast and the music just kept rollin’ out so we decided to also put together a tasty EP. Guests Mario Lalli on ‘STÖNER Theme’ and Greg Hetson of Circle Jerks and Bad Religion on our version of the Motörhead/Pink Fairies classic ‘City Kids’ makes this EP extra sweet. Jump in and let’s ‘Boogie To Baja!’”

Stöner’s love for their early inspirations (bands like Blue Öyster Cult, Kiss, Ramones, Blue Cheer, Misfits, Black Flag, The Stooges, MC5) result in big, groovy, sunbaked riffs that can cruise low and slow but then floor it and run all the red lights. Live, this is a band about the magnetism between the players, the groove, the loose vibe and straight up badass rock and roll… Stöner are masters of their trade.

TRACKLIST:
1. Stöner Theme (Baja Version)
2. City Kids
3. Night Tripper vs No Brainer
4. It Ain’t Free
5. Boogie To Baja

STÖNER Boogie To Baja – PREORDER

If the name STÖNER seems a little on the nose, well… it is. Brant Bjork and Nick Oliveri, founding members of the stoner rock legend Kyuss, are joined again by drummer Ryan Güt (of Bjork’s solo band) and they’ve got dibs on the thick and dusty swinging grooves, returning as Stöner with their sophomore release” totally…”. Their love for their early inspirations (bands like Blue Oyster Cult, Kiss, Ramones, Blue Cheer, Misfits, Black Flag, The Stooges, MC5) results in big, groovy, sunbaked riffs that can cruise low and slow but then floor it and run all the red lights.

Live, STÖNER is a band about the magnetism between the players, the groove, loose vibe and straight-up badass rock and roll… Stöner are masters of their trade. With “totally…”, Stöner is in it’s true form, getting together and having fun. Their world is a colorful joyride, heavy of rock but not of the head. The record cranks with vibes of classic hard rock, heavy blues, desert rock and psych rock jams — things that come organically to this trio. Stöner can’t help but express an abundance of punk rock rawness and passion for real rock and roll swagger. With two records, “Live at Mojave” and “Stoners Rule” (available on Heavy Psych Sounds), the latest full-length “totally…” sees the band realizing the chemistry of these old friends developing a statement of pure rock and roll fun. The band will soon release a new EP with the rock’n’rolling “Boogie To Baja”, slated for a February 2023 drop on Heavy Psych Sounds. 

Stöner Links:  Official Website / Facebook / Instagram / Bandcamp

Jared James Nichols Announces Self-Titled New Album

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Photo: David McClister

Singer, songwriter, guitarist, and Gibson brand ambassador Jared James Nichols has announced his self-titled new album will be released on January 13th via Black Hill Records. Jared James Nichols, his third full-length offering, features the new single “Down The Drain” as well as the previously released “Hard Wired.” The forthcoming collection showcases every side of the Nashville-based multi-talent and the various genres he grew up listening to, whether it was grunge or blues, that have influenced his authentic sound. Jared James Nichols is available now to pre-save or pre-add on all digital music platforms and pre-order on CD – PRESS HERE.

“I made a record to serve as the menu for the live show,” Nichols shares. “There’s an element of excitement and danger. It’s my version of rock ‘n’ roll with a little more humanity. The album is a day in the life with the ups and downs, but it musically rings true to who I am as an artist. I’m not trying to be anybody but myself and play the music I love for today. I’m giving you loud ass guitars and no fucks given rock ‘n’ roll, and I’m loving it.”

Ahead of today’s official album announcement, Nichols released the lead single “Down The Drain” in late October. The hard-hitting track has already been praised by Guitar World and Loudwire, among others, and has been featured across DSP playlists with placements on Tidal’s Guitar Gods (as the cover artist) and Rising: Indie/Rock, Spotify’s Modern Blues Rock, and Apple Music’s New In Rock and Breaking Hard Rock. 

Jared James Nichols was produced, engineered, and mixed by Eddie Spear (Zach Bryan, Slash, Rival Sons) and recorded live in the studio at Blackbird Studios and Sienna Studios, reflecting the spirit of his electrifying live show on tape like never before. The recording sessions occurred at a pivotal moment for Nichols, who almost never performed again as he had been sidelined only a few months earlier with a broken arm. After surgery, which left him with a plate and 16 screws in his right arm, he pushed himself with diligence and determination to regain use of his arm and his storied guitar proficiency. Nichols soon paved the way for the record with the hypnotic and hyper-charged “Hard Wired,” released in the spring of 2022. Born from a jam session with Tyler Bryant and Graham Whitford, the single bulldozed a path for Jared James Nichols with no shortage of raw and raucous six-string bravado. From the jump, the album kicks into high gear with the bluesy wallop of “My Delusion.” 

Elsewhere on the 12-track collection is the Black Sabbath-inspired “Hallelujah,” where a flurry of drums gives way to a thick and heavy battering ram ofa blues riff only to crash into a rickety bass line and atomic shredding, and the party homage “Good Time Girl.” Jared James Nichols culminates on the emotionally charged “Out Of Time,” his heartfelt and tearful tribute to his late father. See below for full track listing.

With nothing more than a Gibson Les Paul slung over his shoulder, a warm amp turned all the way up, and a hot microphone on and ready, Jared James Nichols churns out the kind of rock that rips, roars, and rolls without filter or apology. Nichols, who stands at a staggering 6 foot 5 inches tall, delivers a one-two punch of gritty vocals straight from the gut and incendiary fret fireworks. Jared first emerged onto the scene in 2015 with his debut Old Glory & The Wild Revival and followed that up with Black Magic in 2018, which yielded the fan favorite “Honey Forgive Me.” More recently, he issued the Shadow Dancer EP (2021) and collaborated earlier this year with both Maggie Rose and Joe Bonamassa for revised versions of his song “Threw Me To The Wolves.” Gibson also formally welcomed Nichols as an official ambassador, plotting the release of several signature Jared James Nichols guitars. Since his debut, Nichols has racked up millions of streams and critical acclaim and, in between show-stopping solo shows, has performed alongside icons such as Slash, Billy Gibbons, Zakk Wylde, and even the late Leslie West, to name a few. Guitar World has attested, “If you’ve never witnessed Jared James Nichols onstage, let us say right now: you’re missing out, big time.” By keeping it simple, Jared remains primed to leave his imprint on rock ‘n’ roll forever.

Track Listing:

1. My Delusion
2. Easy Come, Easy Go
3. Down The Drain
4. Hard Wired
5. Bad Roots
6. Skin ‘n Bone
7. Long Way to Go
8. Shadow Dancer
9. Good Time Girl
10. Hallelujah
11. Saint or Fool
12. Out Of Time

Links:

https://www.blackhillrecords.com/artists/jared-james-nichols

https://www.facebook.com/Jaredjamesnichols

jaredjamesnicholsmerch.bigcartel.com

jaredjamesnichols.com

https://www.youtube.com/@JJNicholsMusic