“Small Town Talk Bob Dylan, The Band, Van Morrison, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and friends in the Wild Years of Woodstock”

Author: Barney Hoskyns
Publisher: Da Capo
Hardcover: 402 pages

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

In the 1960’s when musicians in the New York City folk scene decided to “get it together in the country,” they headed to Woodstock. There manager Alan Grossman established his personal fiefdom of studios and restaurants where the likes of Bob Dylan, Paul Butterfield and Todd Rundgren mixed and mingled with Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin. “Small Town Talk” tells Woodstock’s story from its earliest days as a bohemian arts colony to its ongoing life as a cultural satellite of New York City.

Author Barney Hoskyns delves deep into a period of time when some of the period’s biggest singer/songwriters were leaving the crowded cities for the peaceful wooded areas which lay waiting just a few hours away. Tons of great stories are heard here for the first time as the book evolves just as the scene in the Catskills did. As you read page after page you never know who you are going to bump into from that time period which was something I found kept me looking forward to that next page. Hoskyns doesn’t only include just the big players of the time but does a great job of incorporating the community that this scene engulfed and how that era shaped what the town became and how it still remains to this day. “Small Town Talk” is simply not just a book for fans of the 60’s or its accompanying soundtrack as it has a little something for everyone. Woodstock was and is more than just a mud filled 3 day music fest and Barney Hoskyns latest book proves that.

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“Painkillers”
Brian Fallon
Island
Producer: Butch Walker
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

The Gaslight Anthem front-man Brian Fallon steps into the solo spotlight with his debut release titled “Painkillers”. The album which is being released via Island Records features 12 brand new tracks from the Springsteen esk front-man which were produced by Butch Walker (Weezer, Fall Out Boy).

Brain Fallon’s first attempt as a solo artist comes off completely genuine and harkens back to the singer/songwriter era of the early 60’s but with a modern twist. Tracks such as the albums opener “A Wonderful Life” and the title track “Painkillers” are similar enough to Fallon’s previous work with his band The Gaslight Anthem that they will appeal not only to long time fans but also usher in a new fan base for the charismatic singer. Other tracks worth mentioning are the gravelly voiced “Smoke” with its jangly guitars and sing-a-long choruses to the upbeat “Rosemary” which is one of the few songs on the album to feature electric guitar and provides a nice break up mid way through the album which is almost entirely acoustic. Along with Fallon the album features some great performances by Brian’s backing band consisting of Mark Stepro-drums, Catherie Popper-bass, Alex Rosamilia-piano, Josh Keller-pedal steel guitar and Butch Walker who along with his producer duties lends his hand playing a variety of different odds and ends instruments.

When a debut solo album comes out and is as strong as one such as “Painkillers” it makes me wonder if the artist left any ground to cover for future albums. With the diversity shown by Fallon and company that question was quickly answered as the album runs the gambit of music styles which will certainly help pave the way for future releases from the seasoned front man.

Track Listing:


1.) A Wonderful Life
2.) Painkillers
3.) Among Other Foolish Things
4.) Smoke
5.) Steve McQueen
6.) Nobody Wins
7.) Rosemary
8.) Red Lights
9.) Long Drives
10.) Honey Magnolia
11.) Mojo Hand
12.) Open All Night

“Living Like a Runaway”

Author: Lita Ford
Publisher: Dey Street Books
Hardcover: 272 pages
Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Living Like a Runaway” provides a never before glimpse into the life of musician Lita Ford. The child of immigrants, she had a near idyllic southern California upbringing until she was thrust onto the hedonistic rock and roll scene at the age of just 16. With nearly unmatched skills, Lita along with Joan Jett, Cherie Currie, Sandy West, Jackie Fox and under the guidance of Kim Fowley brought the band the Runaway’s to a meteoric rise during the mid to late 1970’s. After the groups break up Lita go on to see tremendous success as a solo artist in the 1980’s. Fearless, revealing and, compulsively readable the long awaited memoir from a true rock pioneer is finally here.

“Living Like a Runaway” is a quick read that keeps the reader’s attention over the course of its 272 pages. Ford speaks candidly about her upbringing and how she was thrust at an early age in to the male dominated hard rock music scene. The book covers the early days of the Runaway a group who had to practically fight for everything they had before ultimately imploding after only 3 albums. From there Ford recounts her career as a solo artist from not knowing where to start to her chart topping duet with Ozzy Osbourne. It is all here. The part of the book that really struck me as odd as over the books 15 chapters Ford has no problem speaking of past sexual encounters with various hard rock legends however when it comes to explaining more of her issues related to former band members and the divorce which left her alienated from her two sons Ford quickly skirts around the issue either saying she doesn’t understand or in the case of the later includes a statement flat out saying she is refusing to talk about it. In the age of the internet where nothing is private what is the sense of putting out a “tell all” type memoir if that’s not exactly what you are going to do? At least you are able to tell your side.

Despite whatever the reasons were for omitting certain details the book is still a decent read for fans of Lita and her works. With not a lot of behind the scenes info on the Runaway’s especially there time in Japan, Lita Ford’s “Living Like a Runaway” does an ok job filling that void.

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“Live From Lexxi’s Mom’s Garage”

Steel Panther
Open E
Mixing: Jay Ruston
Tracks: 13

Our Score: CD- 4 out of 5 stars
                       DVD- 3 out of 5 stars

The raining kings of spandex metal are back with something a little different this time around. “Live From Lexxi’s Mom’s Garage” is the bands first full length feature film which includes a live 10 song acoustic concert mixed with comedic scenes that show case the bands over the top sexually fueled high jinks. The dual CD/DVD is being released via Open E and features 10 tracks that will have you instantly reaching for the aqua net and eyeliner.

Right of the bat “Live From Lexxi’s Mom’s Garage” was a hit for me. The band wastes no time getting right down to business as the album is a spattering of songs from the bands 3 comedic tinged albums but with an acoustic flavor. Songs like “Party Like Tomorrow is the End of the World” and “Glory Hole” sound as good if not better than the original records. Despite the fact that acoustic instrumentation can be a bit unforgiving especially in live situations the band does an impressive job with each performance. Combine that with a great mix provided by Jay Ruston and you have an album that’s not only fun to listen to because of the songs tongue and cheek subject matter but also because it’s pleasing to the ears and you get to a hear new track from the band titled “That’s When You Came In”. Yes the album is a bit polished for a live album however, keep in mind that very few live albums are truly live making this a moot point. Along with the audio version of the CD fans get a video version of the show which only adds to the entertainment value of this release. Though I found a couple of spots where the audio seemed to be a touch out of sync the brief skits every few songs were funny enough to where you could look past any short comings. Throw in a couple special appearance of 80’s video vixen Bobbi Brown in the role of Lexxi’s mom and you have yourself a pretty killer package.

Yes some of the sexual innuendos used in “Live From Lexxi’s Mom’s Garage” have started to become a bit tiresome however the catchiness of Steel Panthers songs are what keep me coming back time and time again. For long time fans of the band picking up this release is a given. For those new to the group despite having three studio albums under the bands belt I recommend starting here a working your way backwards as the songs just sound so good played acoustically. For those wanting this for just the video performance be warned that that is all you will get on the DVD there are no behind the scenes or bonus footage here. Knowing the bands comedic nature I would have thought there would have been tons of outtakes and gag reels from this shoot that could have been included but when you are already getting both the audio and video version of the show for the price of one you can’t really complain.

Track Listing:
1.) Show Intro/ Say Yeah!
2.) Party Like Tomorrow is the End of the World
3.) Fat Girl (Thar She Blows)
4.) If You Really, Really Love Me
5.) Gloryhole
6.) Bukkake Tears
7.) The Burden of Being Wonderful
8.) Weenie Ride
9.) That’s When You Came In
10.) Michael Don’t Know
11.) Community Property
12.) Grindy and Sexy
13.) Death to All But Metal

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Paul Gilbert is probably best known as the guitarist/co-founder of the rock group Mr. Big a band who dominated the airwaves in 1991 with their acoustic ballad “To Be With You”. After the group broke up in 1996 Gilbert embarked on a solo career while also performing in numerous other side projects and groups. Paul recently announced the 3rd installment of his “Great Guitar Escape” which is set for late July. Media Mikes had the chance to speak with Paul recently about the upcoming event and what those who attend can expect.

Adam Lawton: What can you tell us about the recently announced Great Guitar Escape 3.0?

Paul Gilbert: It’s the most fantastic, inspirational and unforgettable guitar event of all time! There will be concerts every night, Seminars every day and lots of opportunities to jam. It’s just going to be great mix of good food, the California coast, and great times with people who love the guitar.

AL: With this being the camps 3rd yr are there things you have planned which weren’t possible during the camps previous 2 sessions?

PG: The first two Great Guitar Escapes were both really great, so I don’t want to make any drastic changes. The biggest difference would be the location. The Cambria Pines Lodge is about halfway between L.A. and San Francisco, so it’s an easy drive for people who live in California. But for the last two camps, I had people fly in from South America and Russia, so I know that nothing will hold back guitar players who really want to rock.

AL: Can you tell us a little bit about this year’s guest counselors and how you went

PG: Andy Timmons and Bruce Bouillet are both incredible guitarists that I’ve spent a lot of time with. Bruce and I played together in the band, Racer X, and Bruce toured in my band when I did Joe Satriani’s G3 tour. He’s a monster player, and a great teacher. Andy is an Ibanez endorser like me, so we’ve played together at a lot of Ibanez events, and of course, Andy was at my last Great Guitar Escape camp. He’s one of my favorite guys in the world to jam with. He’s somehow intimidating and generous at the same time. I’ve met Kiko Loureiro several times over the years, and he’s always been super cool. He can play a lot of different styles, but I’m happy that he’s getting a taste of big gigs with Megadeth. Dave Ellefson, who plays bass with Megadeth, is from my generation of musicians, so he’ll have a head start on the songs that I’ll be playing in the jams. And Bumblefoot has a reputation for being creative and surprising… and still rocking hard, so I’m excited to finally get to jam with him.

AL: Is this camp designed for all level of players or is it geared more towards advanced players?

PG: The GGE is good for anyone who wants to get motivated. You can sit back and enjoy the concerts and seminars, or you can plug in and join the jams. We’re all there, in person, so I like to be flexible enough to work with anything that people are interested in. Also, my idea of “advanced” has really changed over the years. To me, an advanced musician is not necessarily somebody who can play fast or complicated, but just a person who can sound really good. I could talk about this sort of thing for the next 10 hours, so I’d better save it for the camp!

AL: As we start to see more and more interactive camps taking place how do you go about keeping things fresh and making your camp stand out above others?

PG: There are some musicians who are best known for what they do visually. They’ve got the best leather jacket, the most explosions in their stage production, or just an astounding number of consecutive good-hair days. I’ve got legendary musicians at my camp, but they are legendary for the way that they play. And they’re good people. No bodyguards or attitudes. Just a great time being immersed in music, and the guitar.

AL: What other projects are you currently working on outside of Guitar Escape 3.0?

PG: I’ve got a new solo album coming out soon called, “I Can Destroy.” Kevin Shirley produced it, and it turned out great. The opening track is called, “Everybody Use Your Goddamn Turn Signal,” and I think I might actually save a few lives, if people heed the message of this song. I’m also nearing my fourth year with my online rock guitar school for Artistworks. I’ve recorded nearly 4000 Video Exchange lessons, and I’m still having a great time, so I’m going to keep going. And later this year, I’ll be going on tour with my solo band to play my new songs, and my favorite songs from my previous albums. Life continues to rock!

For more info on Paul’s Great Guitar Escape 3.0 you can visit http://greatguitarescape.com

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Laura Jane Grace and the Devouring Mothers, David Dondero

Date: Saturday, February 20th 2016

Venue: The Waiting Room, Buffalo, NY

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Against Me! Front woman Laura Jane Grace made a stop at the intimate Waiting Room in Buffalo, NY on Feb 20th as part of a brief 8 show acoustic tour with her group the Devouring Mothers. Also on the bill for these handful of shows was veteran singer song writer Dave Dondero. The night was part storytelling and part music as both set of performers aimed to provide the audience with a nights worth of entertainment.

As fans were still making their way up the twisted steps of the dual stage venue opening act Dave Dondero took the stage for a less than energetic set. At several points through the 30/40 minute set Dondero asked the crowd if they were actually interested in hearing him play and if not he was ok with leaving. At first what seemed like a joke carried on throughout the remainder of Dondero’s unprofessional and lack luster set.

As the room began steadily filling in Laura Jane and the Devouring Mothers (a group made up of Against Me! drummer Atom Willard and producer/ bassist Marc Hudson) would take the stage and blast through over 20 acoustic renditions of some of Against Me’s material both new and old. In between such songs as “Tonight We’re Gonna Give It 35%” and “Androgynous” Grace read entries from her upcoming book which will be made of countless journal entries and experiences. The set by Laura Jane and company was like a cooler version of “VH1’s Storytellers”. The set was a nice mixture of both new and old tracks which provided something for the various levels of fans the packed the intimate club setting. Missing from the set however was the song “500 Years” which was released in 2014 as a Record Store Day limited edition 7”. Despite this being the perfect setting for the somber number other tracks like “Because of the Shame” and “Two Coffins” filled the void nicely and, despite the of the night being a bit rocky Laura Jane, Atom and Marc did a great job as they more than made it up to the Buffalo fans.

Set List:
1.) Ache With Me
2.) Pints of Guinness Make You Strong
3.) Tonight We’re Gonna Give It 35%
4.) You Look Like You Need a Drink
5.) Sink, Florida, Sink
6.) I Keep Forgettin’
7.) Pretty Girls (The Mover)
8.) How Low
9.) Searching for a Former Clarity
10.) Joy
11.) Androgynous (Replacements Cover)
12.) The Ocean
13.) Harsh Realms
14.) Conceptual Paths
15.) Because of the Shame
16.) Two
17.) True Trans Soul Rebel
18.) Bamboo Bones
19.) Transgender Dysphoria Blues
20.) Black Me Out
(Plus 2 song Encore)


Distant Worlds: Music from FINAL FANTASY
Mahaffey Theater
Saint Petersburg, FL

I feel that Arnie Roth outdid himself with this show. I’ve seen another show that he produced and I liked this one even better. Every show is a little different. As they have over 300 songs to choose from over the Final Fantasy series, there is always a different selection. Some staples are at every show, though, with things such as the Prelude. You just can’t start a Final Fantasy show without that one.

This is a combination show. There is a live orchestra with a live chorus. The music is performed in time with a pre-recorded video showing clips of various Final Fantasy games. For example, if you’re listening to Final Fantasy VII music, you will see clips from the games as well as from the Advent Children movie. So, there isn’t much else to say about this show, because you just have to go yourself. I wanted them to keep right on playing when it was over. I can’t wait until the show is in town again. Go get your tickets. GO!

Steve “Lips” Kudlow is the lead singer and guitar player for the band Anvil. After a period of mainstream obscurity the band was thrust back into the spotlight due to the award winning documentary “Anvil! The Story of Anvil”. The group’s 16th and latest studio album “Anvil is Anvil” comes out at the end of February and Media Mikes had the chance to speak with Lips recently about the album’s release.

Adam Lawton: Tell us about the new albums opening track “Daggers and Rum”

Steve Kudlow: I got a call from this guy to be a pirate in a play he was putting together. I thought it sounded like fun so I said sure. He cast me in the role of Captain Snarls and also asked if I could write a song to go along with the play. I ended up becoming super inspired and started writing. I had the music already and was trying to come up with a title. At first I was thinking “Swords and Tequila” (laughs). I knew that wasn’t going to work so I started to think about what I associated with pirates. The first thing I thought was rum, and then I thought about what they used as weapons. That’s sort of how the title came about. I did some more research on pirate music and what are called “shanties” which originated from musical plays. It was sort of mind blowing that I was being asked to make up my own shanty for this play. It was all pretty cool. The song really sounds like it came from a musical play.

AL: Was this one of the first songs you ended up writing for the album?

SK: Yes it actually was. It was the first song I had lyrics for. I had probably written a couple others at the same time and musically this was I think number 3 or 4. In the studio we called all the songs by their numbers and this one was done really early. Despite it being 3rd musically it was the first completed. Interesting enough song 2 as it was known as was actually one of the last ones to be finished.

AL: The album has 12 tracks listed but a 13th track is included as a bonus on some versions. Can you tell us about that?

SK: Truth be told there is no such thing as bonus tracks. We recorded 13 tracks and all 13 tracks are going to be released eventually. Considering 99% of people listen to music free on the internet these days there is really no such thing as bonus tracks because no matter what version of an album you may get it ends up out on the web for everyone. The “bonus” tracks were just additional tracks that needed to be separated for distribution purposes. We did one version of the album for people who pledged money towards its being made which of course is different from the one found in stores. By doing that we also were able to give the fans in Japan that additional pledge track. The Japan version of the album ended up being the pledge version and easily the most obscure.

AL: Do you guys have any special packaging or limited edition versions of the album planned for release?

SK: Most everything is going to be done in digi-packs. We also are going to be releasing the album in a clear double vinyl format which is going to be really cool. What’s great about the vinyl is it will also come with a digital version of the album so fans can put the vinyl away as a collector’s piece.

AL: Being 16 albums in your career as a band how do you go about keeping things fresh and new from album to album?

SK: I don’t think that is something you consciously do. I don’t really think about it in those types of terms. For me it not about wondering how am I going to come up with something but more so how am I NOT going to come up with something. (Laughs) Every time I get to express myself it’s exciting. It’s a hell of a lot of fun to make new songs. You have to make it that way because if it’s not then the end result isn’t probably going to turn out very well. Just have to have fun with and not waste time. Working with Rob (Reiner) he always wants the next part and to be able to keep going so that’s what I mean by not wasting time.

AL: Do you and Rob have the same relationship now as you did when you first started the group in the late 70’s?

SK: Absolutely! Our relationship is actually the most magical aspect of all this. You end up meeting someone and you find out they think the same way as you. I compare it to when people finish each other’s sentences. With Rob and I we finish each other’s riffs. We grew up together and have listened to the same music our entire lives so we have the same mind set on things. We are very in-tune with one another.

AL: How has the addition of Chris Robertson on bass helped the bands dynamics?

SK: Chris has been with band for about 2 years now however this is his first time actually recording with us. We are really blessed to have Chris and things just fell into place with him. At the time when we needed a new bass player we weren’t really out there searching for someone. We had a tour coming up in 3 weeks and we needed someone pretty quick. We had our friend Sal Italiano come on board for the tour and after worked with him and Jon another friend of ours through the “Hope in Hell” album. When it came time to find someone again I asked my friend Jon if he knew any one. He suggested this guy Chris as he was the guy who taught Jon how to play all of our songs. Chris came in and just blew us away. Sal did another tour with us and we had Chris along as part of the road crew. When the tour ended we had a one off show in Germany that we still had to do so I called Sal to confirm everything. While we were talking Sal stated he wasn’t going to be going. There wasn’t much I could say other than ok. Chris joined the band and here we are. Chris has a great sound and style and along with being a killer bass player he is a great back up vocalist. Chris is really great to work with and is honored to be part of Anvil.

AL: What type of tour plans are in place and has there been any more discussions about another Anvil film?

SK: We are currently out on the road in Europe with Udo Dirkschneider. We will be overseas until early April supporting Udo and then after that we will be starting a headlining tour in the U.S. in mid April. That tour is set to run through mid June. As for another film we have about 40 minutes or so of usable footage and it’s something we continue to work on as the band continues to progress.

“For All Kings”
Anthrax
Megaforce/Nuclear Blast
Producer: Jay Ruston
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

NY thrash legends Anthrax are back with a brand new full length studio album titled “For All Kings”. The album which is the bands 11th studio release and the first to feature lead guitarist Jon Donais features 11 blistering tracks produced by veteran producer Jay Ruston. “For All Kings” is being released in the states via Megaforce Records and internationally via Nuclear Blast and is available in a variety of formats.

As soon as I hit play “For All Kings” dominated my speakers. The albums opening track “You Gotta Believe” features the bands same signature in your face riffing which cemented them as one of the pillars of the Big 4 of Thrash on the early 80’s while the genre was still developing. The opening track sets the stage perfectly for what is to come and is immediately followed by another great track titled “Monster at the Gate”. Catchy sing along choruses, thunderous drum fills and a blazing guitar solo by new comer Jon Donais made this easily one of my favorites. This is not Donais’s only shining moment as the addition of the former Shadows Fall guitarist seems to have taken the bands already aggressive thrash sound and infused it with some heavy metal virtuosity. If you don’t believe me check out tracks like “The Battle Chose Us” and “Zero Tolerance” they are perfect examples of what I’m talking about.

If you are looking for heavy, the latest offering from Anthrax will certainly fulfill that need. Probably one of the bands most vicious sounding albums to date “For All Kings” is a near perfect testament from a band that has been waving the flag for heavy music since the early 80’s. Yes there were one or two tracks which for me personally missed the mark however the remaining 9/10 tracks easily outweigh anything negative and quickly pushed those short comings into the back of my mind. With such a solid release this early in 2016 Anthrax have certainly set the bar high.

Track Listing:
1.) You Gotta Believe
2.) Monster at the End
3.) For All Kings
4.) Breathing Lightning
5.) Suzerain
6.) Evil Twin
7.) Blood Eagle Wings
8.) Defend Avenge
9.) All of Them Thieves
10.) The Battle Chose Us
11.) Zero Tolerance

LAMB OF GOD Announces U.S. Headline Tour with CLUTCH and CORROSION OF CONFORMITY + Festival Performance Dates

U.S. Tour Ticket Pre-Sales Begin TODAY @ 2:00pm Local Time

Festival Appearances Include Bonnaroo, Rock On The Range, Rock’n Derby

This week, LAMB OF GOD wraps up their winter tour with special guests Anthrax and supporters Deafheaven and Power Trip. If you did not get a chance to catch them on this tour, you will soon – LAMB OF GOD is pleased to announce their next U.S. headline tour, which kicks off Saturday, April 30th and features support from renowned rockers Clutch and heavy metal veterans Corrosion of Conformity. Throughout the tour, LAMB OF GOD will perform at several festivals, including Bonnaroo, Rock On The Range, Carolina Rebellion, Welcome To Rockville, Rock’n Derby, and more.

Pre-sale tickets for LAMB OF GOD’s spring headline tour dates go on sale today at 2:00pm local time, and public on-sale begins Friday, February 12th at 10:00am local time. See below for all currently confirmed tour dates and visit www.Lamb-Of-God.com for tickets and more information.

LAMB OF GOD Tour Dates:
Remaining U.S. Headline Tour Dates w/ ANTHRAX, DEAFHEAVEN & POWER TRIP:
Tue/Feb-09 – Oklahoma City, OK @ Diamond Ballroom
Thu/Feb-11 – Las Vegas, NV @ Brooklyn Bowl
Fri/Feb-12 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium

Future U.S. Headline Tour Dates w/ CLUTCH & CORROSION OF CONFORMITY
+ Spring Festival Performance Dates:
Sat/Apr-30 – Fort Myers, FL @ JetBlue Park – “Fort Rock”
Sun/May-01 – Jacksonville, FL @ Metropolitan Park – “Welcome to Rockville”
Tue/May-03 – New Orleans, LA @ The Orpheum
Wed/May-04 – Memphis, TN @ Minglewood Hall
Sat/May-07 – Concord, NC @ Charlotte Motor Speedway – “Carolina Rebellion”
Sun/May-08 – Reading, PA @ Reading Eagle Theatre
Mon/May-09 – Portland, ME @ State Theatre
Tue/May-10 – Boston, MA @ House of Blues Boston
Thu/May-12 – St Louis, MO @ The Pageant
Fri/May-13 – Council Bluffs, IA @ Westfair Amphitheater – “89.7 The River’s Rockfest (KIWR)”
Sat/May-14 – Somerset, WI @ Somerset Amphitheater – “Northern Invasion”
Mon/May-16 – Binghamton, NY @ Magic City Music Hall
Tue/May-17 – Huntington, NY @ The Paramount
Thu/May-19 – Toronto, ON @ TD Echo Beach
Fri/May-20 – Schaghticoke, NY @ Schaghticoke Fairgrounds – “Rock’n Derby”
Sat/May-21 – Columbus, OH @ MAPFRE Stadium – “Rock on the Range”
Mon/May-23 – Wichita, KS @ The Cotillion
Tue/May-24 – Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Wed/May-25 – Salt Lake City, UT @ The Complex
Fri/May-27 – Phoenix, AZ @ Comerica Theatre
Sat/May-28 – Pomona, CA @ Fox Theater Pomona
Sun/May-29 – Oakland, CA @ Fox Theater
Tue/May-31 – Seattle, WA @ WaMu Theater at CenturyLink Field Events Center
Wed/Jun-01 – Vancouver, BC @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Thu/Jun-02 – Penticton, BC @ South Okanagan Events Centre
Sat/Jun-04 – Calgary, AB @ Calgary Stampede Corral
Sun/Jun-05 – Edmonton, AB @ Shaw Conference Centre
Mon/Jun-06 – Saskatoon, SK @ Saskatoon Prairieland Exhibition Park Hall A
Tue/Jun-07 – Winnipeg, MB @ Burton Cummings Theatre
Sat/Jun-11 – Manchester, TN @ Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival – “Bonnaroo”

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Singer/guitarist/songwriter Donavon Frankenreiter is heading throughout Florida (and one show in Hilton Head Island, SC) starting in March 2016! His latest album was released in 2015 called “The Heart” and if you haven’t heard it I would highly recommend it.

Check out below for a complete list of dates to catch Donavon live! Don’t miss it!

March 10, 2016
687 Central Ave Saint Petersburg, FL – State Theatre
8pm

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“Soundcheck”
Leslie West
Provogue
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Soundcheck” is the newest solo offering from legendary Mountain front man Leslie West. The album is the much anticipated follow up to West’s 2013 release “Still Climbing” which featured guest performances by Mark Tremonti, Jonny Lang and the late Johnny Winter. “Soundcheck” follows in the same suit as “Still Climbing” while taking things to the next level with brilliant performances on all 11 of the albums tracks by West and company.

From start to finish Mr. West and his assembled group of musicians are in top form as they blast through a variety musical styling’s covering everything from gritty rock ‘n’ roll to heart wrenching acoustic tinged ballads that echo to the inner most points of the listeners musical soul. The albums opening track “Left by the Roadside to Die” works perfect in its placement by setting the stage for what the listener is in store for. Mixed in with a handful of original tracks are a plethora of re-worked covers including Tracy Chapman’s “Give Me One Reason” a rawkus rendition of Gretchen Wilson’s “Here For the Party” an eerie instrumental version of the Beatles track “Eleanor Rigby” and a one of a kind rendition of “You Are My Sunshine” featuring Peter Frampton. Other guest performers include Queen’s Brian May on the track “Goin’ Down” and the late great Jack Bruce on the live recording of “Spoonful” a recording which until now has never been released.

If you are a long time Mountain/Leslie West devotee then “Soundcheck” will fit perfectly in to your music collection. For the more casual listener you will be hard pressed to find a track on here you won’t like. The production on each of the 11 tracks is really on par and even though the last track is a live track recorded in 1988 it still sounds crisp and in line with the previous 10 tracks making this a great album to listen to over and over.

Track Listing:
1.) Left by the Roadside to Die
2.) Give Me One Reason
3.) Here for the Party
4.) You Are My Sunshine
5.) Empty Promises/Nothin’ Sacred
6.) A Stern Warning
7.) People Get Ready
8.) Goin’ Down
9.) Stand By Me
10.) Eleanor Rigby
11.) Spoonful

Lamb of God, Anthrax, Deaf Heaven, Power Trip

Date: Saturday, January 16, 2016
Venue: Electric Factory, Philadelphia, PA

Media Mikes Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Lamb of God made a stop in the city of brotherly love on January 18th as part of their winter headlining run which is in support of the group’s most recent release “Sturm Und Drang”. Along with the Richmond, VA natives were NY thrash metal legends Anthrax, black metal group Deafheaven and the crossover/thrash 5 piece Power Trip. The historic venue was packed to the rafters with energetic metals fans who were more than ready to live up to their “Killadelphia” name sake.

Starting of the night was the impressive Texas based thrash band Power Trip. The group blazed through a 30 minute set which grabbed the crowd’s attention and didn’t let go. Front man Riley Gale put on a stellar performance that was two parts vintage 80’s thrash and two parts modern metal making for a great start to the evening. Deafheaven would take the stage next basked in an eerie green glow that did little to win over the Philly fans. Despite the lack of vocals in the bands overall mix the group’s unique sound only further agitated the crowd who were not shy about showing their displeasure for the group. This displeasure from the crowd was returned with several gobs of saliva courtesy of lead singer George Clarke. Thankfully things did not get too out of hand as the bands set came to a rather unimpressive end.

Anthrax would follow giving the night the proverbial shot in the arm it needed after the previous bands rough time. The band sounded tighter than ever and looked great. Each of the members worked the stage like the veterans they are as they shredded their way through classic tracks such as “Caught in a Mosh” and “Antisocial” before performing their newest song “Evil Twin” which is the first single of the bands upcoming album titled “For All Kings”. Though the bands set was brief they packed every ounce of energy they had in to those 9 songs bringing the sold-out venues energy to maximum levels. Headliners

Lamb of God would close out the night in the city they consider their second home as Philadelphia was one of the very first cities to really embrace the band and their sound. Lead singer Randy Blythe made several notes of the bands relationship with the city to which the capacity crowd responded with huge applause. The groups set was a perfect mixture of both new and old as in between such classic LOG songs as “Desolation”, “Walk With me in Hell” and “ Now You’ve Got Something to Die For” were new tracks such “512” , “Still Echoes” and the bluesy tinged “Overlord” a song I was certainly excited to hear live. Despite vocals being a bit hard to hear at times the bands set was tight and well rehearsed. I am sure it will only get better as this was just the second night of a tour that runs through mid February.

If the combination of a capacity crowd and a solid bill of heavy music wasn’t enough to make you have a good time this evening then you may have wanted to check your pulse. As the sweat soaked fans spilled out on to the chilly streets on Philly it was safe to say that most if not all in attendance got their monies worth and then some.

Anthrax Set List:
1.) Fight’Em Til You Can’t
2.) Got the Time
3.) Caught in a Mosh
4.) Antisocial
5.) Evil Twin
6.) March of the S.O.D.
7.) In the End
8.) Indians
9.) Among the Living

Lamb of God Set List:
1.) Desolation
2.) 512
3.) Walk with Me in Hell
4.) Still Echoes
5.) Ruin
6.) The Subtle Arts of Murder and Persuasion
7.) Overlord
8.) The Faded Line
9.) Now You’ve Got Something to Die For
10.) Set to Fail
11.) Blackened the Cursed Sun
12.) Erase This
13.) Vigil
14.) Laid to Rest
15.) Redneck

“The Magic of Winter”
Wizards of Winter
Date: Sunday, December 27th 2015
Venue: The Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater
Syracuse, NY

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

The Tri-State area based Wizard of Winter brought their own unique brand of holiday cheer to the Syracuse, NY area on December 27th as part of the group’s 2015 “Magic of Winter” tour. The night proved to be a great extension of the Christmas holiday as the night’s performance took you on a magical music adventure which made for a very enjoyable concert experience.

With this being the groups first time in Syracuse anticipation was certainly high as concert goers filled in the seats at the multi tiered Crouse Hinds Theater. The show began promptly at 8pm as the band kicked off their impressive 26 song performance with a song from their debut album “The Magic of Winter” titled “Flight of the Snow Angels”, a fitting opening number which set the stage perfectly for the rest of the night’s performance. Former Trans-Siberian Orchestra narrator Tony Gaynor would take the stage several times painting a vivid picture of the upcoming number which helped those in attendance sink deeper into the spirit of the night’s performance though, I personally found these moments (which also included a 15 minute intermission) to sort of halt the night’s momentum as it seemed like the band would no sooner start to get in a groove only to have it broken up by brief pieces of commentary. All of the members of the group put on stellar performances including several standout moments by former Trans-Siberian Orchestra vocalist Guy LeMonnier, Violin/Vocalist Natalia Niarezka and lead guitarist Fred Gorhau who blazed his way through intricate solo after solo without missing a beat. Songs such as “Ebeneezer” Savatage’s “Christmas Eve (Sarajevo 12/24)”, “Season’s Lament” and the upbeat “Gales of December” sounded really great as they made their way into every nook and cranny of the theater prolonging the Christmas holiday just a touch longer.

As the night’s performance came to a close the Syracuse crowd seemed pleased with the show they had just witnessed. As the band left the stage the crowd thanked the performers with a heavy blanket of applause which the performers seemed very appreciative of. With such a good response from the groups Syracuse debut my hope is they continue to make stops in Orangeman country for many more holiday season to come.

Set List:
1.) Flight of the Snow Angels
2.) Magic of Winter
3.) Arctic Flyer
4.) Special Feeling
5.) First Snow (Trans-Siberian Orchestra cover)
6.) A Night of Reflection
7.) Sing Alleluia/ 3 Ships
8.) Once Long Ago
9.) 3 Kings
10.) Nutrocker (Electric Light Orchestra cover)
11.) Ebeneezer
12.) Christmas Eve (Sarajevo 12/24) (Savatage cover)
13.) March of the Metal Soldiers
14.) Season’s Lament
15.) Just Believe
16.) Gales of December
17.) Whoville
18.) Waken to the Sound
19.) Toys will be Toys
20.) The Journey
21.) Queen of the Winter Night (Trans-Siberian Orchestra cover)
22.) Electric Blue (Trans-Siberian Orchestra cover)
23.) Little Help (Joe Cocker cover)
24.) Spirit of Christmas
25.) Requiem (Trans-Siberian Orchestra cover)
26.) With One Voice

It’s is with great sadness that Media Mikes reports the passing of a true Rock/Heavy metal icon. Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister passed away on December 28^th at the age of 70. Lemmy was the in your face front man of the heavy metal band Motorhead which Kilmister formed in 1975. The group went on to release twenty two studio album as well as several live albums. The group is probably best known for their 1980 album release “Ace of Spades” which spawned the bands signature song of the same name. Lemmy worked with countless other acts and artists including Wendy O. Williams and Dave Grohl. He also appeared in a number of television shows and films including the 1995 comedy “Airheads” staring Brendan Fraser, Adam Sandler and Steve Buscemi. A statement on the bands Facebook page read:

“There is no easy way to say this…our mighty, noble friend Lemmy passed away today after a short battle with an extremely aggressive cancer. He had learnt of the disease on December 26^th, and was at home, sitting in front of his favorite video game from The Rainbow which had recently made its way down the street, with his family.”

“We cannot begin to express our shock and sadness, there aren’t words.”

“We will say more in the coming days, but for now, please…play Motorhead loud, play Hawkwind loud, play Lemmy’s music LOUD.”

“Have a drink or few.”

“Celebrate the LIFE this lovely, wonderful man celebrated so vibrantly himself.”

“HE WOULD WANT EXACTLY THAT.”

Ian ‘Lemmy’ Kilmister

1945-2015

Born to lose, lived to win.

The Media Mikes crew would like send our heartfelt condolences to all the friends, family and band members of Lemmy. He will truly be missed.