Nine Inch Nails
“Hesitation Marks”
Release Date: September 3, 2013
Tracks: 14
Label: Columbia
Running Time: 62 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Finally “Hesitation Marks” has arrived. This is the eighth album from Nine Inch Nails, and the first since 2008’s “The Slip”. Trent Reznor has been quite busy over the last few years composing films like “The Social Network” and “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” and an Academy Award for Best Score. I have to tell you that I was blown away with those scores and I think that his work with composing music for films has actually made him a better musician. All the track on this album were written and composed by Trent Reznor. He also collaborated with some great people on this album like Atticus Ross and Alan Moulder. But then there was also a few names that made me look twice like Lindsay Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac and The Who’s bass player, Pino Palladino. But let me tell you how well this all meshes and works together. “Hesitation Marks” is easily the band’s best album in the last decade, no question. Can’t wait to see these track performed live!

I read an interview with Reznor, who said that he no longer has the inner rage inside of him and he is actually happy. I guess winning an Academy Award will do that to you. So I have to admit, this record does have a new interesting sound to it but don’t worry NIN purists, the album is still heavy, intense and screams Nine Inch Nails. I also feel that the it really plays well as a whole album.  It is rare where every single track is solid but this record plays so well together that each track kind of flows right into the next one. I have to admit that the best tracks are “Copy of A” and “Came Back Haunted”, they remind me the most of classic NIN. “Disappointed” is a great mellow kick-back track that seems to last forever but in a completely good way. Tracks like “Everything” also have like a pop/rock-like feeling to them, which really works. I have been a loyal fan of Nine Inch Nails since I purchased my a the cassette tape of “Pretty Hate Machine” many years ago, so I think this is really going to jive with fans and also introduce the band to a new generation of fans as well.  This album is easily on my list for best albums of 2013.

Track Listing:
1. The Eater of Dreams
2. Copy of a
3. Came Back Haunted
4. Find My Way
5. All Time Low
6. Disappointed
7. Everything
8. Satellite
9. Various Methods of Escape
10. Running
11. I Would For You
12. In Two
13. While I’m Still Here
14. Black Noise

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Jimmy Buffett
“Songs From St. Somewhere”
Release Date: August 20, 2013
Label: Mailboat Records
Tracks: 16

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Calling all Parrotheads! Jimmy Buffet is back with new music.  This guy refuses to take it easy. Not only does he consistently tour non-stop every year, but he still manages make new music.  “Songs From St. Somewhere” is not just a cash in album, this is some of his best work to date and really delivers for his fans.  If you follow Jimmy Buffett, you know that he has hundreds of great songs in his library and he can continue to tour without ever making a new song, but this guy just never stops.  You can just tell that he loves what he does and that love is easily found in these new tracks. The album was recorded earlier this year all over the world including Key West, Nashville, Austin, Miami, St. Barts and London. There are several sounds in this new album yet it still has that island laid back Buffett feel.

To kick off this album, the first hit single reunites Jimmy with Toby Keith (last one was “Hey Good Lookin’”) on the duet track “Too Drunk to Karaoke”. This song is such a blast and I can see this song becoming another “Margaritaville” or “Five O’Clock Somewhere”. Jimmy has done some amazing duets over the years with everyone from Alan Jackson to Zac Brown Band but this might be one of my new favorites. “Oldest Surfer On The Beach” is such a chill song and you can literally just sit back and jam out. One thing that I noticed about the album is that he has this very personal and special feel, especially this track. I also really enjoyed bonus track which is “I Want to Go Back to Cartagena”, a Spanish version duet with the Latin singer Fannie Lu. I really loved this track and it is a fantastic way to close out the album.

It is rare that an album comes with a hit on every single track. But “Songs From St. Somewhere” is literally a hit after hit. Plus if you listen to Radio Margaritaville, they have been playing at least four of these songs already for the last few weeks, which has been a bit of a tease but also go us ready to start singing along right from the get-go. So from the moment I received this CD, my wife and I were already fans of those tracks and knew all the words. One thing I am most excited about is hearing these songs live.  I think that these tracks are going to fit very well into their shows, especially songs like “Too Drunk to Karaoke” which is going to be a huge hit with fans. Overall, this is a must have for any Parrotheads!

Track Listing:
1. Somethin’ ‘Bout A Boat
2. Einstein Was A Surfer
3. Earl’s Dead – Cadillac For Sale
4. Too Drunk To Karaoke
5. Serpentine
6. Useless But Important Information
7. I Want To Go Back To Cartagena
8. Soulfully
9. Rue De La Guitare
10. I’m No Russian
11. Tides
12. The Rocket That Grandpa Rode
13. I Wave Bye Bye
14. Colour Of The Sun
15. Oldest Surfer On The Beach
16. I Want To Go Back To Cartagena (Spanish Version)

Stephen King, John Mellencamp, T Bone Burnett
Ghost Brothers of Darkland County
Release Date: June 4, 2013
Number of Discs: 2
Label: Concord Music Group

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Ghost Brothers of Darkland County” is a very unique release. It comes from the great talented minds of Stephen King, John Mellencamp and T Bone Burnett. It was originally a musical stage performance, which was performed in Atlanta in April of 2012. So what is this actually? It is a libretto of the acclaimed Southern Gothic supernatural musical. It is a mix of dialogue tracks, written by King with music by some amazing musicians including Elvis Costello, Neko Case, Sheryl Crow, Ryan Bingam, Kristofferson and Rosanne Cash…just to name a few. Costello and Kristofferson also take on characters in between the songs, along with Meg Ryan, Samantha Mathis and Matthew McConaughey. Can you believe the talent attached to this! It is very well put together and draws you in just like one of King’s novels.  The music is seamless with the dialogue and together they really create a creepy atmosphere.

Official Premise: Set in the tiny town of Lake Belle Reve, Mississippi, the Ghost Brothers’ story centers on two sets of brothers: the ghosts of Jack and Andy, dead in an apparent murder/suicide, and their nephews, the living Frank and Drake, who seem to be headed toward the same downward spiral as their uncles. Joe, younger brother of Jack and Andy, father of Frank and Drake, has decided it’s time to reveal his own terrible secret at the site of the tragedy, before it’s too late.

This deluxe edition comes with a two disc set, one CD and one DVD.  The DVD contains a bunch of great behind the scenes content and features the songs and interviews with Stephen King, John Mellencamp, and Musical Director, T Bone Burnett. The following three featurettes are included “A Look Behind Ghost Brothers of Darkland County”, “Truth In Studio” and “Libretto”. The DVD also comes with a digital copy of the libretto.  There is also a pamphlet included with the set for an MP3 download of just the music. I was also impressive with the fact that this deluxe edition also comes with the complete lyrics and script from the CD tracks…and it looks very sharp as well. I highly recommend this for country music fans and of course the words of the great Stephen King.

Track Listing:
1. Introduction By The Zydeco Cowboy
2. That s Me (Performed by Elvis Costello)
3. Anna and Frank Badmouthing Drake
4. That s Who I Am (Performed by Neko Case)
5. The Ghosts Argue and Fight
6. So Goddam Smart (Performed by Dave Alvin, Phil Alvin, Sheryl Crow)
7. Monique and Anna Meet
8. Wrong, Wrong, Wrong About Me (Performed by Elvis Costello)
9. Frank and Drake Argue
10. Brotherly Love (Performed by Ryan Bingham, Will Dailey)
11. Monique, Frank, Drake, and Anna Argue
12. How Many Days (Performed by Kris Kristofferson)
13. The Ghosts Talk (Dialog Underscoring: Patrick Fleming)
14. Home Again (Performed by Sheryl Crow, Dave Alvin, Phil Alvin, Taj Mahal)
15. Monique Comforts Drake
16. You Are Blind (Performed by Ryan Bingham)
17. Joe Begins To Tell His Story
18. Tear This Cabin Down (Performed by Taj Mahal)
19. Joe Continues His Story
20. My Name Is Joe (Performed by Clyde Mulroney)
21. Jenna Expresses Her Feelings
22. Away From This World (Performed by Sheryl Crow)
23. Monique Frustrated With The Boys
24. You Don t Know Me (Performed by Rosanne Cash)
25. Joe Continues As The Ghosts Observe (Dialog Underscoring: Patrick Fleming)
26. And Your Days Are Gone (Performed by Sheryl Crow, Dave Alvin, Phil Alvin)
27. Jack And Andy Fight Over Jenna
28. Jukin (Performed by Sheryl Crow)
29. Jack And Andy Argue And Fight
30. So Goddam Good (Performed by Phil Alvin, Dave Alvin, Sheryl Crow)
31. Joe Talks With His Younger Self
32. What Kind Of Man Am I (Performed by Kris Kristofferson, Phil Alvin, Sheryl Crow, Dave Alvin, Taj Mahal)
33. The Shape Sums Things Up
34. Truth (Performed by John Mellencamp with Lily and Madeleine Jurkiewicz)
35. Joe Talks With The Bartender

Newsted
“Heavy Metal Music”
Chophouse Records
Producer: Jason Newsted
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted has just released his debut full length album titled “Heavy Metal Music”. The album is being released on the heels of Jason’s explosive 4 song EP titled “Metal” which was released in the spring of this year via Newsted’s Chophouse Records. With the exception of the songs “Soldierhead” and “Kings of the Underdogs” all the material contained on “Heavy Metal Music” is brand new. This definitely added to the appeal of this release being that it was being put out in such close proximity to the subsequent EP. From beginning to end Newsted and company are bombastic in their approach.

The album’s opening track “Heroic Dose” pounds its way into your skull while doing an excellent job of setting the stage of what’s in store for the listener. Each track on “Heavy Metal Music” features Newsted’s gritty vocals and ripping guitars courtesy of Staind guitarist Mike Mushok and Jessie Farnsworth. Other tracks worth checking out are “As The Crow Flies” which features a really cool groove which weaves it’s way in and out of the catchy choruses while the track “Kindevillusion” is a melding of all things Newsted.

If you listen carefully you can clearly pick out pieces reminiscent of Jason’s previous work. “Heavy Metal Music” features lots great playing that provides something for everyone making this the perfect album to pick up if you are looking for some solid rock/metal music to throw on during that late summer cook-out with your crew.

Track Listing:
1.) Heroic Dose
2.) Soldierhead
3.) As the Crow Flies
4.) Ampossible
5.) Long Time Dead
6.) Above All
7.) King of the Underdogs
8.) Nocturnus
9.) Twisted Tale of the Comet
10.) Kindevillusion
11.) Futureality

Five Finger Death Punch
“The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell Vol. 1”
Prospect Park
Producer: Kevin Churko
Tracks: 14

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Los Angeles metalers Five Finger Death Punch are back with the first of two new albums titled “The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell Vol. 1”. The album is the follow up to the bands 2011 release “American Capitalist” which was certified gold in September of 2012. “The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell Vol. 1” is being released via Prospect Park and features 14 hard rocking songs produced by Kevin Churko.

Prepare to have your fillings knocked loose as the boys in Five Finger Death Punch pull no punches with the first of two new releases slated for 2013. “The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell Vol. 1” Immediately amps things up with probably my favorite song off the album titled “Lift Me Up” which features a stellar guest performance by the Metal God himself Rob Halford. The album takes you on a roller coast ride of emotion as singer Ivan Moody seems to be venting his inner most demons on tracks such as “Burn MF” and “Dot Your Eyes”.

Moody’s vocal presentation combined with the thunderous bottom end of bassist Chris Kael and drummer Jeremy Spencer and the searing tandem guitar attack of Zoltan Bathory and Jason Hook the album sounds amazing! Though I’m not a big fan of albums that feature different version of the same song FFDP was able to make it work with the addition of guest vocalists Maria Brink, Jamey Jasta and Max Cavalera. Each guest performer seemed to not only give the track a breath of fresh air but also elevate them to a higher performance level.

Solid from start to finish “The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell Vol. 1” delivers. If the bands 13 original tracks weren’t enough for you the guys in FFDP take things a step further by throwing in a rocking rendition of the LL Cool J classic “Mama Said Knock You Out”. Whether you are a fan of heavy metal or not the latest release from Five Finger Death Punch is a must have.

Track Listing:
1.) Lift Me Up (feat. Rob Halford)
2.) Watch You Bleed
3.) You
4.) Wrong Side of Heaven
5.) Burn MF
6.) I.M.Sin
7.) Anywhere But Here (feat. Maria Brink)
8.) Dot Your Eyes
9.) M.I.N.E. (End This Way)
10.) Mama Said Knock You Out (feat. Tech N9ne)
11.) Dairy of a Deadman
12.) I.M.Sin (feat. Max Cavalera)
13.) Anywhere But Here
14.) Dot Your Eyes (feat. Jamey Jasta)

Philip H. Anselmo & The Illegals
“Walk Through the Exits”
HouseCore Records
Producer: Philip Anselmo/Michael Thompson
Tracks: 8

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Pantera/Down/Super Joint Ritual front man Phil Anselmo is back with his first ever solo project “Philip H. Anselmo & The Illegals. The group’s debut CD titled “Walk Through the Exits” was just released via HouseCore Records and features 8 tracks produced by Anselmo and Michael Thomson.

Having been a huge Pantera fan since the group’s first album I have always tried to keep up with Phil’s various side projects since the group disbanded in 2003 however that has proved to be somewhat of a full time job. From Super joint Ritual and Down to various other off shoots you never seem to know when the chameleon like front man will appear. Upon hearing that he would be released his first solo album I was quite interested in hearing what he had to offer. After my first run through of the 8 tracks that make up “Walk Through the Exits” I was left extremely confused and a bit disappointed. Every song seemed to lack direction and structure leaving nothing but a chaotic mess of noise. That’s not to say there were several riffs that started off great however those quickly disappeared in to the abyss of clutter. If I had to choose a favorite track off the album I would have to say that “Bedroom Destroyer” would be it. The song still was a bit of a cluster however I felt it had the most solid structure of the 8 tracks and was fairly accessible.

For those interested in something completely different and don’t mind music that is a little more free form then the debut release from Philip H. Anselmo & The Illegals may be right up your alley.  But for those looking to find something in the vein of Phil’s previous work this might not be the best choice for you or someone looking for a new favorite group.

Track Listing:
1.) Music Media Is My Whore
2.) Battalion of Zero
3.) Betrayed
4.) Usurper’s Bastard Rant
5.) Walk Through the Exits
6.) Bedroom Destroyer
7.) Bedridden
8.) Irrelevant Walls and Computer Screens

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Composer: Joseph Bishara
Release Date: July 16, 2013
Number of Discs: 1
Tracks: 25
Label: La-La Land Records

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

I am a huge horror movie buff. It is hands down my favorite genre. When it comes to the music in the horror movies, it really needs to scare the shit out of me in order to be effective. And I have to admit that is not always the case. I was introduced to the work of Joseph Bishara back in 2010 for the score of “Insidious” (also directed by James Wan) and he has quickly become one of my favorite composers. In fact, “Insidious” has one of my all-time favorite horror scores and this one is also not to far behind either. I have to admit, I have yet to see “The Conjuring”, obviously I am highly anticipating it…and now I only want to see it more, thanks to this score. This score is terrifying and guaranteed to make you jump! A must for any horror fan!

What I like most about composer Joseph Bishara is that he really has a knack for creating these solid score which have a very realistic feel yet still extremely far out and creepy at the same time. Some of my favorite tracks are “Witch Perch”, “Maurice” and “Hanging Drop”. They are crazy creepy and definitely will have you turning the lights on at night. The last track on the album is from fellow composer Mark Islam, called “Family Theme”, it is good but to me really doesn’t fit with the scope of the score and feels out of place.  Nonetheless, if you are looking for a great horror score, and I highly recommend listening with a headset, this will send shivers down your spine and have you running out to the theaters to see this film!

Track Listing:
1. The Conjuring
2. Dead Birds
3. Clap Game
4. Witch Perch
5. Maurice
6. Torturing Haunted Planes
7. Taped Occurrences
8. Black Bile
9. She Saw Something
10. Look What She Made Me Do
11. Sleepwalker
12. Wall Searching
13. Hanging Drop
14. Water Corpse Vision
15. You Look Very Pretty
16. Souls Pulled In
17. Witch Comes Through
18. Birds Pulled In
19. Murderous Offering
20. The Soaring Entities
21. Ritual Casting
22. Cellar Tone
23. Annabelle
24. Doll Box
25. Family Theme – Mark Isham

Otis Redding
“The Complete Stax/Volt Singles Collection”
Shout Factory
Discs: 3
Tracks: 70

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

On July 23^rd Shout Factory will be paying tribute to “The King of Soul” Otis Redding with a 3 disc, 70 track box set that compiles all of his single releases from the Stax/Volt era. Some of the songs included on this set have never been available on CD until now. Packed with such classics as “(Sittin’ On)The Dock of the Bay”, “Try A Little Tenderness” and “Respect” “The Complete Stax/Volt Singles Collection” has it all.

Not being the biggest fan of repackaged/rereleased material I was a little hesitant prior to listening to the three discs that make of the collection. However upon first listen I was blow away by the overall mix of the tracks. Sure they don’t sound as great as the original 7” recordings but it is damn close. Each track is left to breath in its original mono mix which further compliments Redding’s powerful voice. Not only does this collection sound great but the packaging is equally as good. The three discs set comes packed in a box similar to what DJ’s of the 50’s and 60’s would receive their 7” singles in. Along with vintage styled box comes a multi page booklet containing pictures of each original 45. A touch which makes this collection just a bit more special

The collection is being released in two versions. The standard version will be available starting July 23rd and contains the standard 3 disc collection however if you go to www.shoutfactory.com and order not only do you get the set on June 25^th (a month early) but you also receive an exclusive 7” vinyl radio promo copy of “I’ve Got Dreams To Remember/Nobody’s Fault But Mine”.

Track Listing: Disc 1
1.)     These Arms of Mine
2.)     Hey Hey Baby
3.)     That’s What My Heart Needs
4.)     Mary’s Little Lamb
5.)     Pain Is My Heart
6.)     Something Is Worrying Me
7.)     Come To Me
8.)     Don’t Leave Me This Way
9.)     Security
10.)   I Want To Thank You
11.)   Chained and Bound
12.)   Your One and Only Man
13.)   That’s How Strong My Love Is
14.)   Mr. Pitiful
15.)   I’ve been Loving You Too long (To Stop Now)
16.)   I’m Depending On You
17.)   Respect
18.)   Ole Man Trouble
19.)   I Can’t Turn You Loose
20.)   Just One More Day
21.)   Satisfaction
22.)   Any Ole Way
23.)   My Lover’s Prayer
24.)   Don’t Mess With Cupid

Track Listing: Disc 2
1.)     Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song)
2.)      Good To Me
3.)      Try A Little Tenderness
4.)      I’m Sick Y’All
5.)      I Love You More Than Words Can Say
6.)      Let Me Come On Home
7.)      Tramp
8.)      Tell It Like It Is
9.)      Shake
10.)   You Don’t Miss Your Water
11.)   Glory Of Love
12.)   I’m Coming Home
13.)   Knock On Wood
14.)   Let Me Be Good To You
15.)   (Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay
16.)   Sweet Lorene
17.)   Lovey Dovey
18.)   New Year’s Resolution
19.)   The Happy Song (Dum-Dum)
20.)   Open The Door
21.)   Amen
22.)   Hard To Handle
23.)   I’ve Got Dreams To Remember
24.)   Nobody’s Fault But Mine

Track Listing: Disc 3
1.)     White Christmas
2.)      Merry Christmas, Baby
3.)      Papa’s Got A Brand New Bag
4.)      Direct Me
5.)      A Lover’s Question
6.)      You Made A Man Out Of Me
7.)      When Something Is Wrong With My Baby
8.)      OOH Carla, OOH Otis
9.)      Love Man
10.)   Can’t Turn You Loose
11.)   Free Me
12.)   (Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher & Higher
13.)   Look At The Girl
14.)   That’s A Good Idea
15.)   Demonstration
16.)   Johnny’s Heartbreak
17.)   Give Away None Of My Love
18.)   Snatch A Little Piece
19.)   I’ve Been Loving You Too Long
20.)   Try A Little Tenderness
21.)   My Girl
22.)   Good To Me

Composer: Ramin Djawadi
Release Date: June 25, 2013)
Number of Discs: 1
Label: WaterTower Music

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Pacific Rim” is personally my most anticipated movie of the summer, no question.  Giant monsters and giant robots going head to head, sounds totally EPIC! So when it comes to the score for this film, I was looking for that epic feel. Well leave it to Ramin Djawadi to not disappoint.  You might know his work…he does the music for a very small TV series, you never heard of, called “Game of Thrones” ;-). He really knows how to bring the epic action feel to this music.  When I listen to this score, it really gets me pumped up. It also feels very consistent that I can listen to it on loop and it feels like one long track, which I like. Easily one of my favorite scores of the year!

He has become very good at infusing epic action movies with emotion and heart. This film is massive and the score easily lives up to that rank as well.  For the film’s title theme, Djawadi joined forced with Tom Morello (from Rage Against The Machine and Audioslave) to add some killer guitar to the track. In fact it he ended up working on five tracks on this score and they also ending up being my favorite tracks on the whole album.  I love his guitar work on the score, which is not very common for an typical orchestral score. If you are considering seeing this film, I highly recommend this score since it will get you totally pumped and ready. Also I would recommend doing what I did and leaving it on loop since it really gets better and better with each listen.

Track List:
1. Pacific Rim (feat. Tom Morello)
2. Gipsy Danger
3. Canceling The Apocalypse
4. Just A Memory
5. 2500 Tons Of Awesome
6. The Shatterdome
7. Mako (feat. Priscilla Ahn)
8. Call Me Newt
9. Jaeger Tech (feat. Tom Morello)
10. To Fight Monsters, We Created Monsters
11. Better Than New
12. We Are The Resistance
13. Double Event
14. Striker Eureka
15. Physical Compatibility
16. Category 5
17. Pentecost
18. Go Big Or Go Extinct (feat. Tom Morello)
19. Hannibal Chau
20. For My Family
21. No Pulse (feat. Tom Morello)
22. Kaiju Groupie
23. Deep Beneath The Pacific
24. The Breach
25. We Need A New Weapon

Queensrÿche
“Queensrÿche”
Century Media
Tracks: 11
Total Running Time:
35:09
Release Date:
June 25, 2013 (USA/Canada);
June 24, 2013 (Europe)

Our Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

“I don’t know. We don’t really have a plan right now. Honestly, this has been a really long tour and everybody’s just kind of burnt out… It’s probably just time to get home and chill and recharge the batteries. And then we’ll start talking in a couple of months about ‘Oh, do you wanna do something?’ and we’ll see what happens.”
~ Geoff Tate’s response to me on November 12, 2011 after being asked what the near future might hold for Queensrÿche (click here for full interview)

Of course, what did happen soon after my interview with the now-ousted lead singer has now become the stuff of tabloid fodder and rock and roll infamy. The sordid details – including Tate allegedly spitting on, punching, and perhaps even wielding a knife on his former band mates – will be hashed out in a courtroom sometime later this year when Tate and company battle to see who legally has the right to carry on using the band’s moniker. Until then, there are actually two Queensrÿches: in the red corner, there’s the one comprised of Geoff Tate and a seemingly ever-changing backing band comprised of hired heavy metal heavies and, in the blue corner, there’s the one that includes the rest of the Rÿche’s instrumentalists with new front man, Todd La Torre, formerly of Crimson Glory.

Tate’s camp has already released a hastily-produced album’s worth of new material, “Frequency Unknown” – or “F.U.”, for short (subtle, eh?) – that has been lambasted by fans and critics alike for doing nothing but tarnishing the already-damaged Queensrÿche name even further.

The Todd La Torre-led band’s album sets a markedly different tone from the onset. Rather than responding to Tate’s pugnaciously-titled “Frequency Unknown” by calling it “See Tate’s Fallacy Unfold” or some such, they’ve simply emblazoned the LP’s jacket with the band’s iconic “Tri-Ryche” logo and entitled it “Queensrÿche.” It’s a perfect choice because this eponymous release finds the group musically reconnecting with its roots, rebuilding its self-identity, and – ultimately – reclaiming a legacy.

“Queensrÿche” is an amazing return to form that (gasp!) actually sounds like a Queensrÿche album – and producer James “Jimbo” Barton, the man behind the mixing desk of the band’s biggest and best albums, “Operation: Mindcrime”, “Empire”, and “Promised Land”, undoubtedly has a lot to do with that. He knows how to blend all of the amazing musicianship at his disposal into an aural atmosphere that is unique and immediately identifiable as Queensrÿche.

The album opens with the foreboding instrumental “X2”, one that harkens back to the sonic collage that led off 1994’s “Promised Land” LP. From there, the band launches into a percussive and dual-guitar driven array of songs that firmly plant themselves in the sonic splendor of QR classics like “Screaming in Digital” and “Best I Can.” There’s no question that La Torre’s dynamic pipes are a major component behind why the songs work as well as they do. Vocally, his delivery is often similar to Tate’s, ranging from low baritone whispers to blistering highs, but he’s much more than just a sound-alike. He’s often more aggressive than Tate and that seems to have brought the best out of all of the other Tri-Rychers backing him – especially drummer Scott Rockenfield. He hasn’t sounded this pumped since the days of the glorious “Empire.” Indeed, it’s been a long time since we’ve heard the ‘Rÿche fire all thrusters and blast out satisfying crunchers like these.

My only minor complaint is that, after 35 minutes, the disc spins to a halt. Luckily, the album is so good that it’s worth listening to again – something that hasn’t been true of a Queensrÿche release for the better part of a decade. Does the new album have the power or majesty of their 1988 masterpiece “Operation: Mindcrime”? No – but that’s a lot to ask of a band that’s just undergone a major line-up change and is still in the midst of the biggest rock and roll drama since the Roger Waters / David Gilmour “which one’s Pink?” debacle. But it’s damn good and – perhaps more significantly – it’s now once again possible to imagine Queensrÿche making a record as good if not better than that seminal album because, like “Mindcrime’s” protagonist, Nikki, they seem to remember how it started and are no longer dedicated to chaos.

Track list:
1) X2 (1:09)
2) Where Dreams Go to Die (4:26)
3) Spore (3:25)
4) In This Light (3:24)
5) Redemption (4:16)
6) Vindication (3:26)
7) Midnight Lullaby (0:56)
8) A World Without (4:11)
9) Don’t Look Back (3:13)
10) Fallout (2:46)
11) Open Road (3:54)

Jimmy Eat World
“Damage”
Release Date: June 11, 2013
Number of Discs: 1
Label: RCA
Running Time: 37 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

I have to admit, I am not the biggest Jimmy Eat World fan. I am a huge though a fan of their 2001 release “Bleed American”, with hit tracks like “The Middle” and “Sweetness”. I have yet to see them replicate that success since. “Damage” is the band’s seventh studio album and their follow up to 2010′s critically-acclaimed “Invented”. I have to admit even though it doesn’t have the pop and energy of “Bleed American”, it packs some good songs and certainly grows on you over time. I recently listened to the new Black Sabbath album “13″ and I liked it but after they were over I couldn’t see myself listening to them over and over. That is not the case with “Damage”. I have a feeling that this album is going to become an indie hit over this summer for sure.

This new album was produced by Jimmy Eat World and Alain Johannes. Some of the tracks on the album are better than others but all together it is a pretty well-rounded pop album. My favorite track on the album is the title track “Damage”, it is catchy and packs a great chorus. I can see this becoming quite popular for them. Their first official single “I Will Steal You Back” is another great song and like I said, I see this one becoming a summer hit. All the tracks add up to just under 40 minutes, which is not incredibly long but they are short, sweet and to the point. If you are a long-time fan, you should definitely enjoy this. I just wish they added a little more energy into some of the tracks. But like I said, after listening looping it over a few times, the album is starting to grow on me more and more.

Track Listing:
1. Appreciation
2. Damage
3. Lean
4. Book of Love
5. I Will Steal You Back
6. Please Say No
7. How’d You Have Me
8. No, Never
9. Byebyelove
10. You Were Good

Queens of the Stone Age
“…Like Clockwork”
Release Date: June 4, 2013)
Number of Discs: 1
Label: Matador Records
Running Time: 46 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“…Like Clockwork” is Queens of the Stone Age’s first album since 2007’s “Era Vulgaris”. I was a huge fan of 2002’s “Songs For The Deaf” but I never felt that they really topped that album since. Well “…Like Clockwork” is a great revival for the band and they have never sounded better. Each track is epic and very kick-ass, with each one out doing the next. The drumming role has been split with Joey Castillo tackling tracks 1-3 & 6 and Dave Grohl on 4-5 & 7-9.  This has been the first time that Grohl has returned since “Songs for the Deaf”, so I was super excited about that as well. “…Like Clockwork” also delivered the band their first number one debut on the Billboard 200, making it the highest U.S. chart position to date and their first album to top the charts in the United States. So these guys are on FIRE!

Besides Grohl drumming in, “…Like Clockwork” has tons of great guest appearances line-up, some of which were really surprising. Nine Inch Nails frontman Trent Reznor lends some vocals on tracks “Kalopsia” and “Fairweather Friends”. Scissor Sisters frontman Jake Shears pops in on the vocals for “Keep Your Eyes Peeled” and “Smooth Sailing”. Alex Turner from Arctic Monkeys appeared with vocals and guitars on “If I Had a Tail”. Brody Dalle, who also appeared on “Lullabies to Paralyze” and “Era Vulgaris”, sings also on the track. Lastly keep an ear out for Elton John, who plays his piano and sings on the track “Fairweather Friends”. So in terms of guest appearances this album easily scores a 5 out of 5 stars.

The album was produced by Joshua Homme and QOTSA, recorded by Mark Rankin with additional engineering by Alain Johannes and Justin Smith, at Josh’s studio, Pink Duck, in Burbank, CA. So I think it is save to that that “…Like Clockwork”, the bands sixth album that they are back and with a vengeance with some of their best material to date. So after debut at the top spot on the charts with more than 90,000 copies sold in the first week. The band, including founder Josh Homme, Troy Van Leeuwen, Dean Fertita, Michael Shuman and Jon Theodore will hit the roads of North American with a huge world tour in support of “…Like Clockwork”. So be sure to show your support and catch them live this summer! I am sure it is going to be epic just like the album!

Track Listing:
1. Keep Your Eyes Peeled
2. I Sat By The Ocean
3. The Vampyre Of Time And Memory
4. If I Had A Tail
5. My God Is The Sun
6. Kalopsia
7. Fairweather Friends
8. Smooth Sailing
9. I Appear Missing
10. …Like Clockwork

Richard Pryor
“No Pryor Restraint – Life In Concert”
Release Date: June 11, 2013
Number of Discs: 9
Label: Shout Factory!

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Wow! If you are a Richard Pryor fan, you cannot honestly ask for more here. “No Pryor Restraint – Life In Concert” is a superb seven CDs and two DVDs collection that includes over 12 hours of Pryor in his prime from 1966 to 1992. Since it is titled “Life in Concert”, that is not just a title, it literally comes his early years right through his final onstage performances. Some people might have been able to take Richard Pryor all the time but I always though that he was very unique and always funny. If he was raunchy, there was a reason to be raunchy. Besides the CDs and DVD, this amazing set also includes a deluxe book with rare photos, multiple essays, exclusive celebrity tributes, a discography, a filmography, and a personal note penned by Richard’s widow, Jennifer Lee Pryor. The presentation of this release is very impressive by Shout! Factory.  They must be big fans of Pryor because they deliver him a lot of love and respect here.

The following CDS included are “Richard Pryor (1968)”, “‘Craps’ (After Hours) (1971)”, “That Nigger’s Crazy (1974)”, “…Is It Something I Said? (1975)”, “Bicentennial Nigger (1976)”, “Wanted/Richard Pryor – Live In Concert (1978)”, “Live On The Sunset Strip (1982)” and “Here And Now (1983)”. This is his best material available in one release. Also includes are nearly two hours of previously unreleased material, including “…And It’s Deep Too! The Complete Warner Bros. Recordings (1968-1992)” and “Evolution/Revolution: The Early Years (1966-1974)”. This is a collection of great rare recordings. Still want more…well you got it! Top that with three complete concert films on DVD. “Richard Pryor Live In Concert (1979)”, “Richard Pryor Live On The Sunset Strip (1982)” and “Richard Pryor… Here And Now (1983)”. Pryor had such a presence on stage and there is nothing like seeing him mesmerize his audiences live. Like I said easily one of the best compilation sets ever decided to this great comedian.

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Composer: Hans Zimmer
Release Date: June 11, 2013
Number of Discs: 2
Format: Limited Edition, Deluxe Edition
Label: WaterTower Music
Running Time: 113 minutes

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

When you see the name Hans Zimmer, you have to expect an epic and stellar score. The Academy Award, Grammy, and Golden Globe-winning composer is one of the most recognized and respected names in Hollywood. When you think of Superman, you expect an equally epic score. You can thank John Williams for that back in 1978 for the original “Superman” film. Well rest assured since the “Man of Steel” is amazing. When I hear a score and it literally gives me chills when listening to it, that is how I know that I am in love with it. From the moment this starts, I was completely taken back with this score. Easily one of my favorites scores of 2013 so far. Also did I mention that this score almost runs a whopping TWO HOURS!? No joke! If that doesn’t scream epic…nothing does!

This is the first time that he is teaming up with director Zack Snyder. Zimmer is known for his work with directors like Christopher Nolan, Ron Howard and Gore Verbinski. Speaking of two of these directors, Hans is composing the following upcoming films Verbinski’s “The Lone Ranger” and Nolan’s “Interstellar”. You also have to give it to Hans Zimmer for taking on a score like this. Since the sound of Superman is so epic and recognizable you want to make sure not to mess it up. But I feel that he did it perfectly.   This score is available in both the standard and deluxe editions.  So why would you you want to upgrade to the deluxe edition? Well one reason… it contains the track “Man of Steel (Hans Original Sketchbook)”, which clocks in at over 28 minutes long. Yes 28 minutes long! This exclusive track is performed solely by Zimmer and is it a fantastic portrayal of how he experimented in order to find the right sound for this score. Easily worth the price of the CD alone!

Believe it or not that is not the only bonus tracks included with the deluxe edition.  There are also an additional seven tracks, including one of my favorites “This is Madness!”.  When a track is called “This is Madness!” you can only expect it to be extremely epic and boy is it! Also the deluxe edition comes in a super cool embossed steel case, and fans will get access to multiple videos showing an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the music. But…wait there is still more…you will also get a chance to download all 24 songs in DTS Headphone: X, which reproduces a cinematic multi-speaker surround sound experience using only the user’s headphones. This is super cool and a must for any fan of film scores. All and all, I will say that this Limited Deluxe Edition is the only way to purchase this score!

Track Listing:
Disc 1:
1. Look to the Stars
2. Oil Rig
3. Sent Here for a Reason
4. DNA
5. Goodbye My Son
6. If You Love These People
7. Krypton’s Last
8. Terraforming
9. Tornado
10. You Die or I Do
11. Launch
12. Ignition
13. I Will Find Him
14. This Is Clark Kent
15. I Have So Many Questions
16. Flight

Disc 2:
1. What Are You Going to Do When You Are Not Saving the World?
2. Man of Steel (Hans’ Original Sketchbook)
3. Are You Listening, Clark?
4. General Zod – Junkie XL
5. You Led Us Here
6. This Is Madness! – Junkie XL
7. Earth
8. Arcade – Junkie XL

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Doyle
“Abominator”
Monster Man Records
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Former Misfits/Gorgeous Frankenstein guitarist Doyle Wolfgang VonFrankenstein is back with a brand new album titled “Abominator”. The album is the debut release from the group simply titled “Doyle” which members consists of guitarist Doyle Wolfgang Von Frankenstein, vocalist Alex Story, bassist Left Hand Graham and former Misfits drummer Dr. Chud. The album is being released via Monster Man Records and features 11 all new tracks by the ghoulish group.

Half Danzig era Misfits meets early Pantera. That is what you can expect from the debut album by the hulking monster known as Doyle. Though this is not Doyle’s first venture outside of the “Misfits” moniker it is definitely his most promising and powerful. Vocalist Alex Story’s gritty style fits perfectly with Doyle’s riffing which appears to be at the top of its game. Tracks such as “Abominator” and “Mark of the Beast” are perfect examples of this as both tracks feature intricate riffs that border on the verge of metal while tracks like “Learn to Bleed” and “Headhunter” are more rooted in the classic punk genre.

From start to finish “Abominator” is pedal to the metal energy! The album does a great job not only paying homage to the classic “Misfits” sound Doyle is known for but it also infuses a progressive element that will captivate virgin listeners. The only thing I found to be a negative was at times there seemed to be a lack of bass in the overall mix however it wasn’t enough to make me not want to listen to the album on repeat a few times over. If you haven’t got your copy of the album yet I don’t know what you are waiting for? As the longer you wait the longer you’re going to be missing out on some really killer sounds.

Track Listing:
1.) Abominator
2.) Learn to Bleed
3.) Dreaming Dead Girls
4.) Headhunter
5.) Valley of Shadows
6.) Land of the Dead
7.) Cemeterysexxx
8.) Love like Murder
9.) Mark of the Beast
10.) Bloodstains
11.) Hope Hell is Warm
12.) Across State Lines