HM News Update: Week Ending 7-29
HM Podcast Episode #9 Finally Up on iTunes
That's right. Go check it out. It's probably the best episode yet.
UNDEROATH release their first-ever DVD 777 on T&N.
The DVD offering includes never-before-seen footage from the band’s major 2006-2007 tours including a handful of performances spanning the last two years, behind-the-scenes clips from several world tours, backstage home movies as well as a “Making Of” documentary for the group’s current video “You’re Ever So Inviting” filmed in Sweden earlier this year. 777 includes select songs from the group’s “MySpace Secret Show” live performance shot on location in Tampa, FL on June 20, 2006, the launch date of UNDEROATH’s ground-breaking third album DEFINE THE GREAT LINE.
Free Sanctus Song
"Don't Give Up" FREE Download! That's right...we'd thought we'd give you guys a little summer treat. Love the song "Don't Give Up"? Want it??? Click HERE to download it FREE! ( Windows Users: Right click and choose "Save Target As"
Mac Users: Control+Click and Save )
listen here.
Friends of Eric Volz
In an effort to raise awareness and cover the mounting legal fees, Team Free Eric V has launched an online store where you can contribute to Eric's Legal Defense Fund by purchasing t-shirts, wristbands and bumper stickers with the 'Free Eric Volz' message. You can help! Just go to friendsofericvolz.com and click "Wear Your Support."
We hope that wearing a shirt or wristband or displaying a bumper sticker will give you many, many opportunities to tell Eric's story of injustice and raise the funds necessary to help pay legal expenses.
Our friends at ThinkBigMerch.com have done an amazing job finding the best quality, most reasonably priced items available, so that the majority of your contribution will go DIRECTLY to Eric's Legal Defense Fund. Shipping is FREE on all items, no matter how many you order, and 100% of the profits go to Eric's Legal Defense Fund.
Sinead Starts Tour; Stars Gasp
PHOTO ID (from left to right): Sinead O'Connor was joined backstage at the Oxygen Festival in Punchestown, County Kildare, Ireland by fans actor Tim Robbins and his wife, actress Susan Sarandon. The couple, along with many major artists including the members of R.E.M, packed the wings of the stage to catch O'Connor's performance as she began her worldwide tour.
Check out the new MxPx Video
It's the title track to their new album, Secret Weapon.
So, just click here now, already!
R-K Must Be Feeling Good About Radio Right About Now
Relient K’s newest Rock and CHR singles, “I Need You” and “Give”, were the most added at their respective format last week! Check out tracks from their newest album at myspace.com/relienk.
Family Force 5 Bring Crunk To Warped Tour
Family Force 5 have been announced the winners of the Warped Tour Energizer Encore Contest for the city of Atlanta. As a result, the crunk rockers’ set will be extended by 10 minutes during their Atlanta Warped Tour Performance. They currently lead in the voting polls for Minneapolis, Indianapolis, and Cincinnati. Be on the lookout for HM Editor DVP's comments (and photos) of their Selma, TX Warped Tour set. Yes, they used the "J-word."
FOUNDERS START ROCK IMPRINT
Excitement levels are high as LA-based energetic rock band Transistor Radio prepares for the August 28th release of its debut album A Legacy Between, also the first release from Up At Nite Records, the new rock imprint of Syntax Records, created by the pacesetters behind JoshuaFest and Cornerstone California. The quintet’s alt-rock groove is backed up by boldly honest lyrics—unafraid to reveal candid fears on the deeply expressive “California in December,” or bravely convey the chaos of dependency in “Addiction.” Their sound is message-oriented without skimping on sonic excellence, as illustrated in the melodic intensity of “The Getaway.” The first single "Ra-Random" goes to Christian Rock Radio July 30. "This record touches base on the human issues that everybody relates to," says Up At Night Records founder Aaron Diello. "I mean everyone. You cannot listen to A Legacy Between and not relate. You find yourself singing the song for yourself, and crying out to God because you know you're not alone. This record does an amazing job of pointing the listener in the right direction . . . to a God that is infinite in love and grace." This direct approach is no surprise coming from a band willing to invite fans to send them prayer requests and discussion questions. Meeting regularly on Tuesdays to cover those needs in prayer, Transistor Radio is sincere about its mission focus. “We don’t want to be just a band about music," shares drummer Jordan Heid. “We feel God calling us to take it a step further, and become engaged in people’s lives. That’s what God calls us all to do in the Bible, period. To be engaged with one other.” Transistor Radio not only bring their chunky guitars, contagious hooks, and potent lyrics to A Legacy Between, but a driving desire to open connections between a loving God and those in need of hope and encouragement.
Skillet Opens for Breaking Benjamin/Three Days Grace
With no sign of slowing, the Grammy-nominated band SKILLET’s latest, ‘COMATOSE,’ has doubled sales of their 2004 project, ‘COLLIDE,’ having now scanned over 200k units in less than half the time. After 41 weeks on the chart, ‘COMATOSE’ has spent the majority of that time in the Top 10, selling an average of 4900 units each week. In follow up to packed out club shows on their own as well as with Flyleaf in the spring, and performances before massive summer festival crowds, Skillet will open for mainstream rockers Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace for over 20 dates in September/October. In follow up to their seven-week reign at No.1 on Christian Rock with their single “Rebirthing,” Skillet’s second Christian single, “The Last Night,” also nabbed the top spot at Rock and CHR (CRW/R&R). With incredible staying-power, the song made two returns to No. 1 on CHR after initially nabbing the top spot. Therefore, it’s been a waiting game to release the band’s next singles, but both “The Older I Get” and “Comatose,” which will be launched to CHR and ROCK formats respectively this August.
Ruth, Emery, Surrogate Acoustic Tour
AS I LAY DYING RELEASE NEW TRACK "WITHIN DESTRUCTION"! The members of AS I LAY DYING are readying the release of their upcoming opus, AN OCEAN BETWEEN US. This highly-anticipated follow up to 2005’s successful Shadows Are Security will hit stores on August 21, 2007. The band has jumped on to the second half of the Vans Warped Tour this summer to preview their new material live for the fans. To vote for the band to play for 10 minutes longer in your city go to HERE and make your voice heard! An MP3 for the first track being debuted off AN OCEAN BETWEEN US, "Within Destruction," will be available for streaming HERE on Monday, July 16, 2007. The track will also be available to be heard on the band's website (www.asilaydying.com) and on the label's and band's myspace pages (myspace.com/metalbladerecords) and (myspace.com/asilaydying).
Inhale Exhale Shoots Second Vid
INHALE EXHALE just finished shooting their second video from this album, for the song " A Call To The Faithfull", which has also just been released this week to radio as the next radio single. the video should debut in a couple of weeks (by late july).
Seabird In Studio ... Not Making A Mess.
After several performances at Cornerstone 2007, SEABIRD just returned to the studiio to finish recording their debut album for Credential/EMI. tentatively slated for a late fall release.
Means On Tour With Misery Signals
Means hits the road in Canada with Misery Signals, Shai Hulud, The Human Abstract, and Straight Reads The Line from August 9 to September 7.
Tour dates as follows:
8/9 Regina, SK The Exchange
8/10 Edmonton, AB Alberta Ave Hall
8/12 Vancouver, BC The Plaza Club
8/13 Kelowna, BC Habitat
8/14 Calgary, AB Underground
8/15 Saskatoon, SK Louis
8/16 Winnipeg, MB Royal Albert
8/17 Thunder Bay, ON Club 201
8/18 Timmins, ON Victory Tavern
8/19 Sudbury, ON TBA
8/20 Montreal, CAN Fractal
8/21 Fredricton, CAN Kinsman Center
8/22 Halifax, CAN Pavilion
8/23 Sydney, CAN St Anne’s Hall
8/26 St. Johns, CAN Junctions
8/28 Coldbrook, CAN Coldbrook Lions Hall
8/29 Charlottetown, CAN Murphys Community Center
8/30 Quebec City, CAN L’Anti
8/31 Ottawa, CAN Babylon
9/1 London, CAN The Office
9/2 Oshawa, CAN Dungeon
9/3 Barrie, CAN Foundation
9/4 St Catherines CAN L3
9/5 Hamilton, CAN Underground
9/6 Guelph, CAN Cowboys
9/7 Toronto, CAN Opera House
Mat Kearney To Play THE SUMMER STRUMMER FESTIVAL
Set on Sunday, September 2 at Santa Monica, California’s Bergamot Station art gallery enclave, Mat Kearney joins over 40 bands on three stages (Gibson Haybale Stage, Star Lounge Stage, Monster Energy Stage), an afternoon skateboarding expo, autograph sessions and Gibson guitar giveaways. Other artists confirmed include: Augustana, Duane Peters Gunfight, and Ian Moore.
©2007 HM Magazine - All Rights Reserved
MORE NEWS FROM LAST WEEk:
Tragedy At Lifest, Prayers Needed
A girl died Saturday after falling from an amusement ride at Lifest. The girl, who was not identified, had been taken to a local hospital after the fall from a freefall swing ride around 4:45 p.m., stopping the activities on the grounds for several hours. Music at the Christian festival had resumed around 7:30 p.m. until an announcement about the death was made from a stage just after 9:30 p.m.Wes Halula, director of communications for Lifest organizers Life! Promotions, said the music scheduled for the evening went on as planned, Halula said, though with more mellow, worship songs. The artists scheduled to play were informed of the incident. We thought it would be the right thing for them to do to play tonight Halula said. The girl fell around 4:45 p.m. from the Air Glory ride. Air Glory is operated by a company independent from Lifest.
Words from Lifest:
We are deeply saddened by the tragic accident that took Elizabeth Mohl's life on Saturday. Most of all, we want to offer our condolences to Elizabeth's family and friends. Our prayers go out to them and to all Lifest attendees who are hurting. At a time like this, we know that many are asking the hardest questions. There are no easy answers. We can only look to God in the midst of so much grief and pain. In the words of Jesus, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted" (Matthew 5:4, NIV). We pray God's comfort will touch everyone affected by this tragedy. Information about the funeral service here.
Disciple Gears Up
Disciple is unveiling news on their fall tour and announcing a re-release of their sophomore studio album Scars Remain Special Edition on August 28 with four additional acoustic tracks, two music videos and a free ring tone. Disciple will present the Scars Remain Tour this fall debuting in mid September. The tour headlined by the band will feature FIreflight, Dizmas and newcomers Wavorly.
Brad Avery Adopts Daughter From China Brad Avery of Third Day, is in China this week to adopt the newest member of his family, daughter Canaan. The event marks the end of a long process for the Avery family, who have been preparing for this adoption for the past two years. After spending countless hours traveling the distance between the United States and Nanchang, China, Brad Avery, along with his wife, Mindi, and three daughters, Chloe, Charis, and Chai, officially welcomed Canaan Avery into their family on July 9. "The first 24 hours we had her were quite emotional in many different ways. However, it has been nothing short of a miracle to see her thrive and literally come to life these last 4 days," Mindi Avery marvels. "She was handed to us with a blank look on her face, bruises on her body, a runny nose and rattling cough.... but who knew what a bunch of kisses, lots of hugs, a few toys, three hyper sisters running around and a trip to the Super Wal-Mart would do? I know that each day in our loving arms will be a day that God uses to heal her and let her know that she is adored and cherished by her Creator," Brad writes in the Third Day blog. The family will be heading home to Georgia this week.
August Burns Red Update
August Burns Red and Solid State Records are proud to announce that their new album Messengers has debuted at #81 on the Billboard Top 200!! August Burns Red sold over 9,000 copies of Messengers in the album's first week. August Burns Red has also traveled to the farmlands of Pittsburgh, PA to film a video for their song, "Composure." For the video, the band called on Endeavor Media, the production company that has previously worked with Bayside, Comeback Kid, Becoming The Archetype, and Lovedrug.
MxPx Announces Free In-store Performances
After headlining the Tooth & Nail Tour earlier this summer, MxPx is set to hit the road again next week for a leg of special free in-store performances and signings around the country. The trek launches July 17--the day the group release their new CD Secret Weapon on Tooth & Nail Records--with a performance at Vintage Vinyl in Fords, NJ. These dates will be followed by a week of shows on the Vans Warped Tour this summer. Ernie Ball is proud to announce that the band--who are longtime endorsers--will perform on the Ernie Ball Stage at the Vans Warped Tour in the following cities: Chicago, Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Cincinnati, Cleveland and Camden. Check here for details.
Maylene Video Premieres on Saturday Maylene and the Sons of Disaster's band video for the song "Dry the River" will make its MTV2 premiere this Saturday as part of the network's "Headbangers Ball" program. Still shots from the much-talked-about video have been posted online at this location. The conceptual video, a live action recreation of the artwork from the band's new album, Maylene and the Sons of Disaster: II, was helmed by Director Andrew Paul Bowser and tells the story of "the last night for a gang of criminals" (as portrayed by the members of Maylene and the Sons of Disaster) whose "lucky streak has finally come to an end." "Dry the River" was filmed at the wondrous Sanna Ranch in Agua Dulce, CA, which has previously served as the film location for the motion pictures "Bones" and "Prime Evil".
The Golden Sounds
Lo-fi Sounds For A Hi-fi Heart is now available at Grimeys in Nashville. It will also be available online in a few weeks at your favorite online stores such as i-tunes, napster,rhapsody,etc. Please pick up the record and tell all of your friends. In other news...NPR featured Jaded Robots on one of its news stories recently. Here i a link to the story.
Michael Sweet To Sing With Boston On August 19, 2007, Come Together, an event to celebrate the life of Brad Delp will be held at The Bank of America Pavilion in Boston, MA. Michael Sweet, lead singer of the multi-platinum band Stryper, has been chosen as one of the few musicians who will perform with Boston that night. Brad Delp was the voice of Boston since 1969 and died in his home on March 9, 2007. "Brad Delp will always be revered as one of the greatest vocalists in rock-n-roll history. I am humbled to share the stage with Tom Shultz and the members of Boston in a tribute to such an incredible singer", says Michael Sweet, who recently released a new solo project titled HIM. The line up for Come Together, according to promoter Live Nation, is: BOSTON, RTZ, Orion The Hunter, Godsmack, Beatlejuice, Farrenheit, Ernie & The Automatics with special guests Michael Sweet, Mickey Thomas, Sammy Hagar and more! Tickets can be purchased here.
Megadeth Announces U.S. Tour
Megadeth have announced their first U.S. headline dates in support of the critically acclaimed Roadrunner Records release United Abominations. The band has just taken Europe by storm, having played across the continent last month to hundreds of thousands at some of the largest and most renowned summer festivals, including Download, Rock IM Park and Rock AM Ring. "We are back and we are serious, and we are coming to see you as soon as we can," Dave Mustaine commented on Megadeth.com upon returning home this past weekend. Tour dates are also listed on the Web site.
Mainstay Unveils Sophomore Album
Mainstay will unveil their sophomore album Become Who You Are on BEC Recordings this September 25th, with major tour plans slated as they join Jeremy Camp on a 35-city nationwide acoustic =93An Intimate Evening With Jeremy Camp this fall. Become Who You Are includes
12 songs, all of which were penned by Mainstay, and feature additional songwriting with label mate Jeremy Camp, as well as Marc Byrd (God of Wonders). Production credits on the album go to up-and-coming producer Luke Fredrickson. "Become Who You Are is an honest recording of everything from worship songs to love ballads to high energy rock n=92 roll," says front man Justin Anderson.
(c)2007 HM Magazine - All Rights Reserved
MORE NEWS FROM LAST WEEK:
Rise Records Keeps Busy
Rise Records is gearing up for its biggest summer yet with blockbuster releases from The Devil Wears Prada, Drop Dead Gorgeous, Catherine and At The Throne Of Judgement. All Rise bands are on tour all summer long. The Devil Wears Prada just announced a tour with Chiodos this fall and Dance Gavin Dance will be assisting Silverstein in October. Also announced is the signing of Burden Of A Day, For The Fallen Dreams and American Me. Check out all Rise Records artists here.
Book The Band
Virgin Mobile USA today announced a partnership with MTV2 and Kyocera Wireless to launch “Book the Band By Virgin Mobile” – a new short-form music program profiling five emerging bands with different sounds who share the same goal: to be the opening act at this summer’s Virgin Festival By Virgin Mobile being held on August 4-5, 2007 at Pimlico Race Course® in Baltimore, MD and featuring The Police, The Smashing Pumpkins, and Beastie Boys. "Book the Band By Virgin Mobile," hosted by Jim Shearer, will debut on MTV2 on Friday, June 15, appearing each week as segments on "T-Minus Rock" (weekdays at 11am) and "Subterranean" (Sundays at 1am) through the voting period which ends July 20. MTV2 will then announce the winning band on a final bonus episode during the week of July 27. Episodes will also appear on MTV2's "Saturday Rock" series in July.
Bands participating in "Book the Band By Virgin Mobile" -- presented by premiere handset sponsor Kyocera Wireless -- are:
- Aiden, a post hard-core band from Seattle, WA
- Cold War Kids, indie blues rock band from Fullerton, CA
- The Higher, the pop/rock band from Las Vegas, NV
- Mute Math, playing electro alternative rock from New Orleans, LA
- Say Anything, alternative rock band from Los Angeles, CA
East Coast Christian Motorcycle Event
Massive move of the Lord. To gather all east coast ministries for outreach, discipleship, evangelism, ministry & a great time. Everyone and all Motorcycle ministries cross the United states welcome and encouraged to come!
Featuring Bands: Judah First; Gypsy Carns; Fog; Strange Land; Least Of These; 39 Lashes; Spiritwind.
For more information go here.
The Dead Whisper On
Montana-based band Pivitplex has released a new single, "Hope Killed the Shadows," inspired by The Dead Whisper On, the latest release by Bethany House suspense author T.L. Hines. "Hope Killed the Shadows" is currently available on the band's myspace page, and will be available at iTunes and other online retailers soon, as well through Hines' website and www.deadwhisperon.com. The Dead Whisper On, Hines’ second novel, will be available July 1, 2007.
Harvest Crusades
Harvest Crusades with Greg Laurie will return to Southern California for the 18th consecutive year, bringing the same message of hope the evangelistic outreach has delivered since its inception. The “Southern California Harvest 07” will visit Angel Stadium over three nights, Aug. 3 – 5, featuring a timely talk about faith from Riverside, Calif. pastor and evangelist Greg Laurie, and the best in popular Christian music from rock band P.O.D., David Crowder Band, Leeland, tobyMac, Crystal Lewis, and Phil Wickham. All three days of the Southern California Harvest 07 are free of charge, and will be broadcast live on the internet here.
Purple Door Announces Line Up
Featuring three stages of performances from some of the hottest bands impacting the music scene today, as well as an art gallery, skate park, paint ball and top speakers from across the country, Purple Door Festival announces the official line-up for its 2007 event, to be held at Ski Roundtop in Lewisberry, PA August 17-18. Hosting a healthy diet of favorites and a diverse array of critically acclaimed newcomers, the 12th annual edition of the Festival boasts nationally known artists such as Relient K, Anberlin, mewithoutYou, Haste the Day, Norma Jean, As Cities Burn, Colour Revolt, Sherwood, Denison Witmer, Red, The Devil Wears Prada, Derek Webb, Family Force 5, Leeland, and Cool Hand Luke as well as local favorites August Burns Red, Kheris and Farewell Flight. For more information go here. Also, be sure to check out the HM Stage while you're there!
New Nodes Of Ranvier Out Soon
Nodes of Ranvier (Victory Records) will be releasing their new record at the end of July, "Defined by Struggle." The guys will be playing a few shows with From First to Last at the end of July then they will be heading out with Inhale Exhale (SolidState) for all of August. Check out the band's myspace for more.
Third Day in the UK
Fans of Third Day in the United Kingdom got to see the veteran group up close and personal in early May, and at the same time help ministries and social causes in other parts of the world. From the famed Royal Albert Hall in London to a nightclub in Wales, from a huge church in Ireland to a legendary rock club in Scotland, Third Day brought not only new music from its latest studio album Wherever You Are, but also classic hits from its decade-long career to thousands of excited fans in the UK. Drawing over 3,000 attendees. At the same time, the crowds at three of the tour’s stops - Cardiff, Belfast and Glasgow - dug deep into their pockets to help two charities dear to both the band and the short tour’s promoters: Ignite India Churches, which helps a ministry in India called Gateway with church building construction in rural villages; and Friendly Faces Foundation, which aids in getting child slaves forced to work in the fishing industry in Ghana released. They raised over $18,000 to be split evenly between the two.
International Songwriting Competition
One of the largest songwriting competitions in the world, ISC offers entrants a chance to share in $150,000 in cash and prizes, including an Overall Grand Prize package of $25,000 (US) in cash and more than $20,000 in merchandise, unmatched by any other songwriting competition. Enter early and take advantage of ISC's Early Bird deadline. For songs entered on or before July 16, the first song entry is $30, and all additional entries are only $20. After July 16, the fee is $30 per song entry with no discount for additional entries. This is a great opportunity to save on entry fees. All online entrants also receive a complimentary six-month membership to Sonicbids. Go to here to enter songs via mail or online.
Ruth, Emery, Surrogate Acoustic Tour
Emery, Ruth, and Surrogate hit the road for an 18-city nationwide tour run beginning in South Bend, IN. “Getting to do an acoustic tour is such a cool opportunity,” says Emery lead singer Toby Morrell. “It allows our fans to see us in an entirely different way than our normal crazy show. We have done a few acoustic shows and it becomes a really intimate event where the crowd becomes a part of the show by asking questions and singing along with us. It's really neat to hear from our fans and also to be able to see who they are.” Ruth front man Dustin Ruth adds, “We're so excited to get to know the Emery guys after hearing from so many of our close friends that their ‘southern hospitality’ really comes through…especially in the sweet tea category. We are also looking forward to the re-arranged versions of our songs in the set.” Surrogate, a new edition to the Tooth & Nail roster, will be making their first public appearance on this tour. Touting influences from Red House Painters, to Genesis, to Pinback, the band’s self-produced CD comes out on 08/28. Dates are as follows:
7/12 - The Foundry - Joplin, MO
7/13 - House Of Bricks - Des Moines, IA
7/14 - Lifefest - Sunnyview Fairgrounds - Oshkosh, WI
7/16 - Club 3 Degrees - Minneapolis, MN
7/17 - House Of Rock At Playmaker's - Fargo, ND
7/18 - What's Up Lounge - Mankato, MN
7/19 - Granada Theater - Lawrence, KS
7/20 - The Rock - Papollion, NE
MxPx Kicks It Into High Gear
Right now all fans can listen to the MxPx's Secret Weapon in its entirety for free. Listen to the full album stream on their myspace. Also, while you're there check out the band's world premiere brand new video for "Secret Weapon".
MxPx will be making a special appearance and performing live at various record stores thorughout the US to celebrate the release of their new album. Check out the dates below and show up early for your chance to hang and rock out with them.
7/17/07 - Fords, NJ @ Vintage Vinyl: 6:00 PM
7/20/07 - Philadelphia, PA @ FYE: 7:00 PM
7/21/07 - Bloomingdale, IL @ Best Buy: 3:00 PM
7/22/07 - Las Vegas, NV @ Zia: 7:00 PM
7/25/07 - Santa Ana, CA @ Greene Records: 7:00 PM
7/27/07 - Seattle, WA @ Silver Platters: 7:00 PM
MxPx will also be playing a week’s worth of dates on the Ernie Ball stage this year at Warped Tour. Check out your daily schedule to see what time they play:
7/28/07 - Chicago, IL
7/29/07 - Minneapolis, MI
7/31/07 - Milwaukee, WI
8/01/07 - Cincinnati, OH
8/02/07 - Cleveland, OH
8/03/07 - Philadelphia, PA
Secret Weapon will be in stores and online July 17th. Secret Weapon will be available in three different versions, Regular Edition, Special Edition (includes bonus DVD), and Double Vinyl.
A Place For Christians To Connect
Community Connect Inc., the leader in online niche social networking, proudly announces the launch of its newest web site, Faithbase.com, a place for Christians to connect. The new venture is dedicated to connecting people from the same faith who share the same core beliefs. Audiences with strong spiritual beliefs, can share their stories of hope and faith, create new friendships and even find that someone special. The site’s exclusive forums urge passionate audiences to share and debate ideas. Some of the forums available at launch will include Parenting, Relationships, Child Care, Home Finances, Gardening, Cooking, FaithBase Book Club, Family and Singles Vacations, Sports and Fitness. Faithbase.com will also encourage bespoke groups, such as Bible Study, Government and Politics, Teens and Youth, Missions and Outreach and Pastors and Clergy. Christian music will be a major focus for the site, showcasing both signed and unsigned Christian bands from around the world. Christian musical artists will also have a chance to promote their latest tours, new releases, and accomplishments. The music feature on the site is not only a place for fans to discover the best that Christian music has to offer, it’s also a place for musicians to interact with their core audience and to share their talents with their fan base.
©2007 HM Magazine - All Rights Reserved
MORE NEWS FROM LAST WEEK:
This Land Is Your Land, This Land Is My Land
Artists as diverse as John Mellencamp, Blind Boys of Alabama, Martha Wainwright, The Black Crowes and Andrew Bird contribute tracks to SONG OF AMERICA, a unique 50-song, three-CD set envisioned by former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno and artist/producer Ed Pettersen, and co-produced by Pettersen and Grammy-winning producer David Macias. Due out September 18 as a joint venture between Split Rock Records and 31 Tigers (via RED Distribution), the collection tells the history of our country through song, from 1492 through modern times. These new versions of beloved songs interpreted by contemporary artists who span the folk, blues, rock, R&B, country, classical and hip-hop genres offer listeners a way to connect or reconnect with America’s vast musical and cultural heritage. Janet Reno explains, “I thought that music would be a great way to engage listeners, especially young listeners, and spark their interest so they could gain a greater understanding and appreciation for our history. I am very proud to be associated with this collection of inspired performances.” Key tracks include John Mellencamp’s version of Woody Guthrie’s “This Land Is Your Land,” Blind Boys of Alabama’s “Let Us Break Bread Together,” Bettye LaVette’s transcendent take on Bruce Springsteen’s “Streets Of Philadelphia,” the first recording of The Black Crowes’ Robinson brothers singing with their father Stan (“Reuben James”), Martha Wainwright’s updated rendition of “I Am Woman,” Andrew Bird’s wistful account of “How You Gonna Keep ‘Em Down On The Farm,” Harper Simon’s “Yankee Doodle,” and The Del McCoury Band’s soon-to-be-classic take on Bob Dylan’s “The Times, They Are A Changin’.”
Until June
Until June, new pop/rock band on Flicker/Sony-BMG, will be featured on the upcoming third season edition of GREY'S ANATOMY box set collection, with their song “What I've Done,” which will be used on the promo spot of the hot television series' new spin-off, Private Practice. The DVD collection will be released on September 11.
Calling All Garage Bands & Underground MC's
Music Nation, the artist development company, officially kicked off its second season of online music competitions. Over the next 12 weeks, Music Nation’s judges panel will vote together with intrepid music fans to choose finalists in the concurrent rock and hiphop competitions. Original Signal Recordings, Music Nation’s 360-degree music company, and Epic Records will jointly sign recording contracts with one rock and one hiphop winner. More than 2,500 artists entered the first Music Nation competition and resulted in an overflowing reservoir of the best of the best in unsigned talent. The company expects the most skilled artists from across the web to again flock to the site and compete for not only invaluable exposure, but also the shot-of-a-lifetime recording contract and a wealth of additional prizes. Music Nation’s competitions afford artists a palpable chance to see how their riffs or their rhymes are received in cyberspace both by the fans and Music Nation’s crew of industry judges. The fans’ ratings of videos and viewing of profiles are compiled into real-time statistics that determine the weekly Nation’s Choice winner in each competition, while the judges will also make their weekly Choice and offer invaluable feedback. Music Nation also offers enticing prizing to its artists.
In hiphop, the winner will have an opportunity usually reserved for only hiphop’s biggest names: the chance to have Green Lantern create a custom mixtape for the artist, which will include an exclusive song produced by the renowned DJ/producer. In rock, the winner will perform on FUEL TV’s “The Daily Habit,” a half-hour show on Fox Cable Networks that mixes top pop culture stories with leading action-sports personalities, music, and comedy.
Brian "Head" Welch In Chicago
Meet Former Korn member, Brian "Head" Welch Wednesday, July 25, 2007 at 7:30 p.m., at Borders Books and Music, 1500 16th St., Oak Brook. He will be signing and discussing his new book “Save Me from Myself: How I Found God, Quit Korn, Kicked Drugs, and Lived to Tell My Story”.
Music In The Rockies
Ever wonder what exactly goes on in the Rocky Mountain town of Estes Park, Colorado every summer when the Gospel Music Association (GMA) takes over the Estes Park YMCA Center for the annual GMA Music in the Rockies? Thanks to the Gospel Music Channel, prospective registrants/aspiring artists can visit a new GMA page at YouTube.com to view six video clips from last year’s Music in the Rockies. The clips, which include talent competition footage, concert clips and interviews with registrants, were originally produced for Gospel Music Channel’s “Gospel Insider” news program. This year’s GMA Music in the Rockies , begins Sunday, July 29 and continues through August 3, and will again features six days of educational/professional development seminars, talent competitions and music concerts.
Summer Concert Series
TAG Artist Group is proud to present a special summer concert series at Puckett's Grocery and Restaurant (120 4th Ave. South, Franklin, Tenn.) displaying the talents of the extensive TAG artist roster, which includes mainstays of Christian music as well as up-and-coming artists. The concerts take place each Thursday night in June beginning at 6:00 p.m. CST and are open to the public. Admission is by donation. For more information on this event, please call Puckett's Grocery and Restaurant at 615-794-5527. GMA Dove Award winner Cheri Keaggy, along with special guest and acclaimed independent singer/songwriter JJ Heller, kicked off this special concert series on June 7, 2007, celebrating the launch of Keaggy's new album, Because He First Loved Us, which released June 12, 2007. Darrell Mansfield, one of the world's premiere blues harmonica players, will commemorate his 30+ year career and the upcoming release of his new album, Shades, by taking the stage on Thursday, June 14, 2007, with special guests GMA Dove Award nominee Rick Cua, acclaimed bassist Jackie Street and the Dan H Band. Dove Award-winning singer/songwriter Mitch McVicker will showcase songs from his upcoming CD, Love Will Rise, the following week on June 21, 2007. Then Rick Cua will wrap up the June series on June 28, 2007, by introducing the audience to songs from his upcoming CD, Won't Fade Away, and he will be joined by special guest JJ Heller.
How Can We Be Silent
The wait is almost over as the three-sister band, BarlowGirl, is scheduled to release their highly-anticipated third project on Fervent Records, How Can We Be Silent, on July 24. The new album features 10 original compositions by Barlow members, Rebecca, Alyssa, and Lauren, and showcases deeper, more mature lyrics that signify the strength of this new project. The songs are a bold approach in standing up for God and fighting for what is right, with the cover artwork featuring the group in a boxing ring. The album even sports a song entitled “One More Round,” which is one of Rebecca’s favorites.
Feast Eternal Completes With Fire
Open Grave Records Recording artist Feast Eternal have completed the recording of, “With Fire”, their follow up to 2000’s, “Prisons of Flesh” (which was reissued in April of 2007 on Open Grave Records). Feast Eternal is currently streaming unmixed clips of the tracks, “With Fire” and “Into the Hands of an Angry God” on their Myspace. “With Fire” is set for a September 23rd release date via Open Grave Records.
Rise Record's Sells Out Venues
Oregon’s Rise Records has sold out their first ever packaged national tour! The US tour, featuring an all star cast of Drop Dead, Gorgeous, The Devil Wears Prada, Dance Gavin Dance, and At the Throne of Judgment, started the beginning of June and has been selling out rooms as large as 800. The tour has been a booming success for all of the bands, and drummer Daniel Williams of The Devil Wears Prada gives us details saying “It’s basically the hottest tour ever, in popularity and degree-wise. Everybody is booking us in 300 cap venues and selling 500 or 600 tickets. In Dekalb, IL at The House Café, which fits 150 kids, they let 400 kids in and turned away another 300 or so. It’s all been pretty amazing.”
Paramore Starts A Riot!
RIOT!," the new album from Fueled By Ramen recording group Paramore, has made a stunning chart debut following its first week of release. The Tennessee-based band's sophomore effort - which features the breakthrough first single/video, "Misery Business" - has entered the Billboard 200 at #20 with over 42,000 units sold, marking the band's best-ever sales week, and one of the highest sales and chart debuts for Fueled By Ramen (second only to Fall Out Boy). In addition, "RIOT!" is #6 on the current Alternative Albums chart and #7 on the current Rock Albums chart. Fueled by Paramore's fervent fan following, "RIOT!" has proven a massive digital sales success. The album hit #1 on the iTunes Alternative Albums chart, while ranking among iTunes' overall Top 10. Paramore will spend the summer on the road, joining the main stage line-up on the Vans Warped Tour 07. The band will kick-start their third stint on the fest beginning next Friday, June 29th at Pomona, California's Pomona Fairgrounds, with shows continuing through mid-August. From there, Paramore will cross the Atlantic for a main stage appearance at the UK's world-famous Carling Weekend: Reading & Leeds, slated for August 25th and 26th.
Take A Piece Of Creation 2007 Home
The Creation Festival proudly announces its renewed partnership with the internet's leading digital music provider, iTunes, for Creation 2007. The two will come together once again to provide music fans with exclusive free song downloads from top artists performing at this year's event. To gear up for the 2007 Festivals, nearly 500,000 people on the Creation Festival mailing list will receive access to an exclusive iTunes Creation Digital Sampler, where they can download five free songs from top artists performing at the Festival, including Bethany Dillon and KJ-52. In addition, every person attending the Festivals will receive an exclusive iTunes card featuring a special collection of more than 25 FREE songs from their favorite Creation artists, including Switchfoot, Relient K, Newsboys, Casting Crowns, Third Day, TobyMac, Leeland, BarlowGirl and more. This year, Creation Northeast will be held June 27th - 30th at the Agape Farm in the beautiful mountain ranges of Mount Union, PA., and Creation Northwest will be celebrating its 10th Anniversary at the amazing Gorge Amphitheater in George, WA July 25th -28th. Festival stages will offer performances from artists as diverse as Switchfoot, Newsboys, Casting Crowns, Barlow Girl, Emery, John Reuben, Flyleaf, Israel & New Breed, Project 86, Fireflight, David Crowder Band, Kutless, and more. Learn more about Creation Fest here.
Aletheian Update From Joel
As we've announced before, we will have an album out this fall on IRONCLAD Recordings / MetalBlade Records. IRONCLAD will be Re-Releasing the 2005 Hope Prevails Productions release "Dying Vine". The re-release will have an additional track (which is still a surprise, but we think it will be worth the wait), has been remixed, will be going to West West Side to be remastered in July, and will feature all new artwork and enhanced media. "Dying Vine" will be out at some point this fall, distributed by MetalBlade, the official release date will be coming soon. See the new cover art by Dinunzio Design here.
I know a lot of you have been waiting patiently for a long time to hear some new Aletheian material, and we don't mean to disappoint you with the news of re-release. Both IronClad Recordings and Aletheian have agreed that "Dying Vine" is too strong of an album to remain buried in obscurity forever. Instead we both hope to use it as a springboard from which to launch a new future for the band. We will however offer the promise of a NEW release in late 2008.
I know that a lot of you are wondering about our guitarist Donny. Last spring, Donny had some personal / physical / emotional issues that required him to drop off tour early. Since then, Donny has recovered well and straightened out a lot of things in his life. Unfortunately through the process, Donny has decided that after 6 years, his heart is no longer in performing live or pursuing the future of the band. Instead Donny has recently gotten engaged and will be focused on pursuing a new life with his wife-to-be Lauren. Despite his absence from our live show, Donny has still done some additional recording for the "Dying Vine" re-release. But as things stand at this point, that will be the extent of his involvement with the band. We're sorry to see him go and we will miss him greatly, but we are happy for him and his recent engagement. CONGRATULATIONS. Speaking of engagements, another CONGRATULATIONS is in order for Alex, who has also recently gotten engaged.
We would like to say a great THANK YOU to our old friend (and former bassist) Travis Wagner, for filling in on guitar for a few tours over the last year. Also, CONGRATULATIONS to Trav who is getting married in July.
Joining us on the road this summer will be our old friend Andy High on bass, and our new friend Derek Corzine on guitar. Andy is the former bassist/vocalist for deathmetal band Blind Influence, and a long time friend of the band. Some of you have seen him play with us already. Derek is the former guitarist/vocalist of the TX band Syringe, current member of various other projects, including: Whisper from Heaven, Cosyns, and Solarian. He and his wife have recently moved from TX to NC, and we look forward to go out on the road with them this summer.
Doug At Cornerstone
Be sure to check out Doug's Editor's Blog during the Cornerstone Festival. He might be issuing out special prizes for those who read it at the fest... See his blog here.
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