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Turned On With Tina's Podcast
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Turned On With Tina's Podcast

Author: Tina Peek

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One on one, in-depth interviews with hard rock and metal artists, includes new music!
17 Episodes
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Hedley is a Canadian pop/punk rock band comprising of lead singer Jacob Hoggard, who was placed 3rd during the second season of the reality TV series Canadian Idol in 2004, Tommy Mac on bass, Dave Rosin on the guitar and Chris Crippin on drums. The current band retains the original name of Hoggard's pre-Canadian Idol group, although the membership has changed. The band originated in Abbotsford, British Columbia and was named after the town of Hedley, British Columbia, a name chosen after members heard that it was for sale for $346,000. While the idea of buying the town ran its course, the name remained. The original band bet Hoggard $151 that he wouldn't audition for Canadian Idol. Following Hoggard's success on the series, he, with a reformed Hedley, was signed with Universal Music Canada. Their debut single "On My Own" reached number 1 on the Canadian Singles Chart and the follow-up "Trip" peaked at number 11. The singles "On My Own", "321", "Trip", and "Gunnin'" topped the MuchMusic Countdown. Their last single off of the debut album, "Street Fight", was successful on both the MuchMusic Countdown and the Canadian Singles Chart. Their first single from their new album "Famous Last Words", "She's So Sorry" achieved success on the MuchMusic Countdown. Their current single, "Old School," is climbing the charts. They have toured with Simple Plan, Faber Drive, MXPX, Bon Jovi, the Planet Smashers, Freddy Fender, the Idlesons and The Johnstones. In the summer of 2006, they signed a record deal with Capitol Records in the United States where they completed a tour opening up for Yellowcard. Hedley released its latest album Famous Last Words on October 30, 2007. It went platinum ten days after release. The first single from the CD, "She's So Sorry", was released to radio on August 21, 2007. The video was shot in Toronto, Ontario, and premiered on MuchMusic on September 20, 2007. An American compilation of singles was released in the US on May 19, 2009 entitled "Never Too Late" by Universal Music. Visit Hedley: Myspace: www.myspace.com/hedley Official Website: www.hedleyonline.com
Aiden is an American post-hardcore band from Seattle, Washington that formed in the spring of 2003. They took their name from the character in the movie The Ring, although with a different spelling with an 'e' instead of an 'a'. The current members are WiL Francis (vocals, guitar, piano, lyrics), Jake Davison (drums), Nick Wiggins (bass), and Angel Ibarra (lead guitar). WiL originally played bass but took over lead vocals when the original singer left. Aiden's first full-length album "Our Gang's Dark Oath" was released on Dead Teenager Records in 2004. It was recorded while Jake Davison and Angel Ibarra were still in high school, being released shortly after they had left. Later in 2005, the band was signed to Victory Records. Their second album and debut for Victory Records titled "Nightmare Anatomy" was released October 4, 2005. Aiden's song "One Love" appears in Resident Evil: Extinction, and their song "We Sleep Forever" is featured in the motion picture Dead Silence. The band's third studio album entitled "Conviction" was released August 21, 2007. It marks a complete change of style in the band's musical direction. In addition, Aiden recorded their own version of Ashley Massaro's theme music "Let's Light a Fire Tonight" for the bonus edition of WWE The Music, Vol. 8. On May 20, 2008 the band announced on their website that Jake Wambold was no longer a member of Aiden. They played their first live show as a four piece in Spokane, Washington on May 24, 2008. Francis has started a website and a MySpace page for a side project called "William Control". William Control is a sort of alter-ego to WiL, and the album consists of dark content lyric-wise, which WiL stated in a Kerrang! interview did not suit Aiden. William Control's debut album, Hate Culture, was released on October 27, 2008 in the UK, and October 28 in the U.S. Aiden also appeared on the soundtrack to The Lost Boys: The Tribe, with a cover of the theme song "Cry Little Sister". Ibarra has also begun a self-named side project, which had its first performance in Metro Seattle in late January of 2009. He has also announced a new side project with Davison, called Rock 'n Roll Weekend. Aiden's recent offering, an album titled "Knives", was released on May 12th, 2009. It was recorded at the same studio WiL produced Hate Culture. "I think that a lot of people who hated "Conviction" will really like this one. But who knows and who really cares? We're just going to make the record we want to make." On March 31, 2009, a new single, "Scavengers of the Damned", was made available through iTunes. And speaking of iTunes, this is the response Wil Francis sent to Apple iTunes, with regards to Aiden's content being denied on the popular music download site: Dear Apple, What can I really say that Trent Reznor hasn't? "I want to fuck you like an animal?" Oh wait, he said that. "I am a big man and I have a big gun. Got me a big ol’ dick and I like to have fun, held it against your forehead, I'll make you suck it, maybe I'll put a hole in your head, you know, just for the fuck of it." Yeah, he said that, too, all on a record called The Downward Spiral. I have purchased that album five times in my life. I first got it on Cassette when it came out in 1994, I bought it a couple of times on CD and last year I purchased it on iTunes right after I went out and picked up the vinyl. Why? Because it's a great fucking record. I don't want to go on the same rant as him, although I probably share the exact same feelings. So what if a crappy punk band from Seattle sings about the deception of religion as a whole? So what if they sing about Catholic priests molesting little boys? Who really cares at all if they wail about a Hungarian Countess that was born in the 1500's and killed over 600 women? Who Cares? The PMRC? Ted Haggard? Congress? Jesus? Oh wait, no… JESUS ISN’T FUCKING REAL. Yes, maybe we talked a little bit of shit while doing the commentary for the iPhone app about Christianity, about sex and about... Fuck I can't even remember because it's so fucking insignificant. Why don't you be a little clearer in what it was that we need to watch out for? Oh wait... I thought I lived in America where my freedom of speech right was protected by the constitution? That's right, I forgot. I actually live in Hell. Oops. Remind me to tell someone I have a complaint to submit in the box on the wall. Aside from the content issue, the app was also rejected because you want to "protect" the value of the iTunes store and having an app with embedded content "competes" with what is ultimately your monopoly. Ironic and hypocritical, no, since Apple owns both channels? I just want to say thank you Apple for not approving our iPhone app. Thank you so much. To celebrate this great occasion, I'm going to visit your iTunes Music Store and download The Slim Shady LP; I really want to hear that song he sings about killing his wife and dumping her body in the ocean. Awesome!!! William Control / AIDEN PS: Any by the way, we have sold over 325,000 albums so far in our career without widespread mainstream media exposure. So, we must be relevant to someone. Below is our rejection confirmation: "Dear XXXXXX, Thank you for submitting Aiden to the App Store. We've reviewed Aiden and determined that we cannot post this version of your application to the App Store at this time. Because your app downloads media files that are not managed by the iTunes application, which also manages media files, we believe this would be confusing to the user. To avoid this customer confusion, we have chosen to not publish this type of application to the App Store. In addition, we've reviewed Aiden and determined that we cannot post this version of your iPhone application to the App Store because it contains objectionable content and is in violation of Section 3.3.12 from the iPhone SDK Agreement which states: "Applications must not contain any obscene, pornographic, offensive or defamatory content or materials of any kind (text, graphics, images, photographs, etc.), or other content or materials that in Apple's reasonable judgement may be found objectionable by iPhone or iPod touch users." If you believe you can make the necessary modifications to bring your application in compliance with iPhone Software License Agreement, we encourage you to do so and resubmit it for review. Regards, iPhone Developer Program" *Please show your displeasure by contacting iTunes - this isn't just about Aiden, this is about all artists and how it effects them and us, because, if you like a band, if you like their music, but they are being handcuffed in what they are being allowed to express, in it's rawest art form, then what's the point? Whatever happened to freedom of speech, freedom of expression? It's bad enough Walmart has a monopoly on record sales and refuse to allow explicit content material to be sold in any of their stores, but now iTunes is doing the same thing to artists as well? Give me a fucking break! The loudest voices always get heard - we can make changes - together!!* Tina Peek Visit Aiden here: Myspace: www.myspace.com/aiden Official Website: www.aiden.org/index2.php Check out William Control here: Myspace: www.myspace.com/williamcontrol
James Kottak In 1996, James Kottak became a member of the Scorpions. Prior to joining Scorpions, James was the drummer for Kingdom Come, The Cult, Wild Horses, Montrose, MSG, Warrant, Buster Brown, and countless others. In addition, James has performed on over 120 albums. James also plays (vocals and guitar) in KOTTAK, formerly known as KrunK. Athena Kottak Before KrunK she was with the all girl band Hardly Dangerous and the punk group Butt Trumpet. Aside from her musical career, Athena has also been a celebrity guest commentator on VH-1's Behind the Music and E! True Hollywood Story. In the 7th Annual L.A Music Awards, Athena was nominated for "BEST DRUMMER" (Males and Females) category. She was the first female ever nominated in the history of the L.A. Music Awards. KOTTAK JAMES KOTTAK AKA JIMMY RATCHITT/vocals & guitar and ATHENA KOTTAK/drums (lil’ sis of Tommy Lee), describe KOTTAK music as ‘Cheap Trick meets Green Day on a bad day.’ “Throw in a dash of Social Distortion and Papa Roach and you have a recipe for a freight train barreling right through the arena!” says Ratchitt. Johnny Lucas/lead guitar and Price/bass round out KOTTAK’S line up. Kottak has just finished six new trax with producer Tommy Henriksen (Daughtry, BC Jean). 'Don't Wanna Go Home', Drunk Unkle Pete, & 'Sunset Blvd' are a few titles. With it’s debut CD ‘Greatist Hits’ and critically acclaimed follow up ‘Therupy,’ KOTTAK (formerly KrunK) has established itself as more than just a band with a spelling problem. Several tours of Japan, Europe, Mexico, and countless west coast runs have yielded a reputation as a rock solid act. Whether headlining, sharing the stage with Motley Crue or as a guest on The Warped Tour, KOTTAK’S live shows deliver a ‘one-two punk & roll hit between the eyes’ while incorporating a few classics from the Scorpions. Based in Los Angeles, KOTTAK is currently working on a third CD and looking forward to shows throughout 2009 across the USA and around the world. KOTTAK Myspace: www.myspace.com/kottak KOTTAK Website: www.kottak.net James Kottak Myspace: www.myspace.com/officialjameskottak Athena Kottak Myspace: www.myspace.com/athenakottak Scorpions Myspace: www.myspace.com/officialscorpions
“Freedom from convention, music with intention.” This has been the motto for Spiral Trance since day one. It is this very motto that has set the indie-metal quartet at the forefront of their peers, ringing true louder than ever with their Rat Pak Records debut release, All In Due Time. Without regard for any one specific genre, Spiral Trance has seamlessly carved out a niche for themselves introducing a progressive, indie element to the modern, hard-rock world. On the back of several EP’s and three national tours, Spiral Trance has emerged from the studio to deliver their most diverse, yet cohesive offering to date. It explores the vast realms of the psyche, while showing the influence of decades of great music. The lyrics of Paul Karcz range from the anger of songs like Lard Ass and Offering, to the hopes and dreams of the title track All In Due Time and Dead Set, even delving into the dual personalities of The Me You See. From the gorgeous piano melodies and speed metal guitar attack of opening track This Time, to the relentless guitar riffing and sing-a-long chorus hooks of the closing track, Project And Release, hard-rock and metal fans alike will have something truly unique to embrace. All In Due Time combines ten beautifully scorched tracks into a single camera snapshot. It captures a band full of hunger and fire laying out their blueprint for the looming, infinite horizon ahead. Spiral Trance is the epitome of a band rooted in determination and persistence; performing as a finely tuned machine and continually working toward a groove that only occurs when energy is focused in solidarity. Dead Set on making you insane… Visit the band here: Rat Pak Records-Spiral Trance: www.ratpakrecords.com/spiraltrance.cfm Myspace: www.myspace.com/spiraltrance
KILLER DWARFS Formed in late 1981 by Russ and Darrell Dwarf, the Killer Dwarfs released their self-titled debut album in 1983. The award-winning band established a solid following in Canada, while achieving modest worldwide sales. The break through in the United States came when San Antonio based radio personality Joe Anthony started spinning their album on a regular basis, much to the delight of hard rocking Texans. This planted the seeds for what would result in Killer Dwarfs receiving a lot of attention South of Canada's border. Released in 1986 by Maze/A&M in Canada and Grudge in the USA, "Stand Tall" was embraced by American Rock radio. The first single, "Keep the Spirit Alive," was an anthem of the times. The accompanying video was added to regular rotation on MTV and the newly born Much Music. By spring of 1987, the video became the most requested video on MTV, setting a record that would take years to overcome. A second video for the title track was greeted with nearly equal accolades. This wide exposure allowed the group to tour coast to coast in the US and Canada with such acts as Saxon and Accept, selling unprecedented 80,000 copies of Stand Tall. It also led to serious interest from a number of American record labels. Along with Rush and Helix, they were one of the few Canadian hard rock acts to achieve international success. AUTOMAN Automan was formed in 2002 by writing partners Darrell "Dwarf" Millar (vocals) and Carleton Lockheart (guitar) and is a genuinely pure 70's/80's influenced kick-ass "rawk" band in the essence of Aerosmith, The Rolling Stones, AC/DC and others. Their distinctive, upbeat brand of modern classic rock can best be described as coming straight out of a music time capsule, yet it's altogether fresh, current and timeless. Darrell-a lifelong professional musician is internationally reknown as the former drummer for the multi-million selling hard rock act "Killer Dwarfs", as well as for the Nikki Sixx produced southern rock act "Laidlaw". As one of the most high-profile and well-travelled drummers of the 80's-90's hard rock era, he's shared concert stages worldwide with the likes of Iron Maiden, Motley Crue, ZZ Top, Pantera, Lynyrd Skynyrd and more. In formulating Automan, he vacated the drums for frontman duties and it's his high-energy persona that fuels Automan's performances, both live and on record. Carleton-a master guitarist capable of playing all styles of rock and jazz, has been mesmerizing musicians and fans alike for years on the independant circuit with his unique style of playing pick-less, left-handed and upside-down. Those who witness his stellar performances are astounded at his jaw-dropping techniques. Undoubtedly, Carleton's incomparable approach to guitar is a key ingredient of the Automan sound. In 2004, Automan was rounded out with the additions of bassist John Fenton and drummer Adrian Cavan. Touring extensively throughout Southern Ontario has polished the band into a tight, highly entertaining professional act. Their recently released full-length CD, titled "Pocket Change" was produced by Darrell and co-produced by Greg Looper (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers/Mudcrutch) and is fuelled by their first single titled "Back In The Sun", which is now available for radio. Going "old school" with just 8 tracks of "all killer/no filler" Automan's easy on the senses, aurally-appealing sound will surely attract and connect to, a wide-ranging audience fan base. If your desire is for blues-based rock in it's truest form, yet with it's own distinctive up-to-date qualities, then spare some time to check out Automan's "Pocket Change"!! Visit Automan Here: Automan Website: www.automan.ca Automan on Myspace: www.myspace.com/automanca
What is metal? Ask any given fan and the most likely response will be whatever genre they’re into. Whether it’s 80s glam or modern-day scream-o death-core, everyone has their own opinion. Our answer to this question is simply this: Good is good, suck is suck. Ronny Munroe's "Fire Within" was created the way a true metal album should be—with nothing but spirit. Frustrated, unable to tour with Metal Church (on hiatus), and forced to relocate from L.A., Ronny found himself back in Seattle. What was originally supposed to be a 2009 festival-headlining tour with Metal Church turned out to be one man, forced to decide between joining society as a “9-to-5'er" or creating a new vision. Ronny chose his path—with “pen in hand” and an indomitable spirit, he sat in his small apartment and drew from "The Fire Within." Track one, "Far," is an opener like no other, an undeniable force which sets the pace for a redefinition of metal that reminds us why Ronny fronts the legendary band Metal Church. From start to finish this passionate offering takes you on a true metal journey. With a little help from guests like Michael Wilton (Queensryche) on "Sea of Souls" and "What You Choose to Call Hell (I Call Home),” Randy Cooper (THC Texas Hippie Coalition) on "Ride Me, and the brilliant work of MC Guitarist Rick Van Zandt, "The Fire Within" establishes itself as a force to be reckoned with. When was the last time you bought a metal album that was anything other than just "ok?" In the tradition of solo albums which speak to the very souls of us, such as Halford’s "Resurrection" or Bruce Dickenson’s "Chemical Wedding"—masterpieces in their own right—“The Fire Within” is guaranteed to get your fists pumping and your soul electrified. This vibrant twelve-track offering is no joke and no lie. It's true, it's pure, it's in-your-face, and will satisfy metal lovers from any genre. Co-produced by Kurt Vanderhoof and Ronny himself, this powerful release will stand the test of time! Rat Pak Records Ronny Munroe on Myspace: www.myspace.com/ronnymunroe Metal Church on Myspace: www.myspace.com/metalchurch Metal Church Official Website: www.metalchurchmusic.com
Check out my Podcast for Part I and visit these links for more information on my friends, Metal Knights: Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/metalknightsmusic Website: http://www.themetalknights.com
Metal Knights, working with Dio guitarist Craig Goldy and his Destiny Bridge program are ready to take on the world and make Heavy Metal Medieval again! Metal Knights, the Medieval Heavy Metal band are based out of Los Angeles, Ca. The band has seen the worldwide release of its first effort, an EP titled "The Crossing", which features Craig Goldy of Dio on one of the recorded songs, The Gates of Hell (Hope Springs Infernal). The band have just finished work on their new offering, a full length album titled "World Of Forever" with Craig Goldy once again making an appearance. Goldy also produced both albums. Metal Knights came to the forefront of the resurgent heavy metal scene in 2007 when Craig Goldy saw them play to a sold out house and joined them onstage with Dio band mate Simon Wright. It was the next day that frontman and lead vocalist Razor was contacted by Craig Goldy asking if the band had aspirations to take it to the next level. Other Goldy standouts that have succeeded through his Destiny Bridge program are metal rockers Benedictum. Metal Knights, now under the management firm Hunt Talent Management are being shopped for a record deal and lead vocalist Razor has finished building a new recording studio, Studio-949 in Irvine, California so that the band will have their own facility to work from. Their first effort, "The Crossing" has gained worldwide recognition and is being played worldwide on both Internet and Terrestrial based FM radio in countries from the USA, to the UK, Italy, Spain, Greece, The Netherlands, Sweden, South America and Japan. The Medieval Rockers launched their website to rave reviews and the fans are joining the Metal Knights Fan Club and signing up for the bands Ticket-tracker service which includes the fans into a special database that will alert them, no matter where they are in the world, when Metal Knights comes to their town. Metal Knights also garnered the top slot on Mystage Metal as not only the featured artist, but also pulling in the most requested Metal song with The Gates of Hell, as well as a special two hour interview and broadcast on United Rock Kingdom being the most listened to interview in the history of that broadcast. Razor has been doing a press blitzkrieg on radio around the globe and magazine interviews from the US and Canada, to the UK, Italy and Greece. The other main standout on the EP, Death Defier is also in heavy rotation on stations around the globe. Metal Knights consists of Razor on Lead Vocals, Paul Calder and Billy King on Lead Guitars, Danik Thomas on Bass, Adam Emmons on Keyboards and Dave Krause on Drums. Metal Knights are currently in production with SuperGravity Films and director Tom Asakawa (Stephen Pearcy-Drive with me) on a new High Definition Music Video for the radio standout Death Defier. For more information on Metal Knights, please visit: http://www.themetalknights.com or visit their Myspace at http://www.myspace.com/metalknightsmusic
Listening to the newest release by Fredericton, NB based indie rockers Age of Daze, you can’t help but wonder how the hell they managed to pack eight-that’s right 8-killer singles onto one album?! I mean let’s be honest, now.a.daze you’re lucky if you download a cd with two singles on it–but 8? No way! And yet, here it is... Hollywood Ending, released in the winter of 2007, is made up of eight skillfully-crafted, unadulterated rock songs, ranging the gamut from passionate ballad to kickass guitar anthem. And yes, the results are in...10 out of 10 blind listening sessions have concluded...there’s no @!* way this band is staying indie...In fact, they don’t sound indie at all!! For those of you who haven’t heard the band (and have no fear, you will soon), AOD is 100% rock-pure and simple. Kinda like orange juice-with all the pulp but none of the acid! With 3 pounding guitars, 1 killer bass and a drum kit that gets the shit kicked out if it every time it’s played, this band has a sound that draws you in, rocks your soul, then locks you into an addiction you’ll never get rid of...not that you’d want to! The success of Afflicted, the band’s first single to be released on traditional radio in Canada and on Sirius satellite radio in the US, has been nothing short of mind-blowing when you consider the band hasn’t put anything out there but the song...meaning no gigantic publicity machine, no dipping into limitless pools of corporate marketing cash, no gruelling cross-country tour. All hail to the Internet–the true litmus test of what’s hot and what’s not...and AFFLICTED is definitely smokin’ according to AOD’s myspace fans! For those of you in the know, it shouldn’t be surprising that Age of Daze have made themselves quite at home on Sirius Octane’s Top 20 Rock Charts, duelling with the likes of 3 Doors Down, Puddle of Mudd, Seether and Chevelle for most played and most requested song with incredible ease–like they were born to be there (and quite frankly, we think they were). Again, not an insignificant accomplishment for an indie band from somewhere.up.there.north.of.the.border. Even band members agree they’re not the type of band you’d expect from “out east.” But hey, when you aim high, you usually win big. And win big they have-garnering a loyal family of rock fans that span the far corners of the globe-from New Zealand to Italy, from Portland to England and almost every damn state in the mighty US of A! On this side of the 49th P, Afflicted is blazing up the Media Base Top 20 Rock Charts, getting airplay and support from coast 2 coast. With gigs this year during the ECMAs and CMW, their ability to win over any crowd has been nothing short of phenomenal. It’s no wonder the band is having such a hard time keeping the album stocked-the requests just keep getting louder and louder! But the one thing that really makes your head spin about this album is the talent behind it, and the focus of the band members. With dig deep, passionate vocals, the power of three rockin’ guitars, heavy bass and the craziest @%! drummer relentlessly thrashing his skins (not to mention the sweat flying around on stage)-they’re the real deal. They’re stoked and they’re in it to win it. Says lead vocalist Tim Morrison, “You gotta go big or go home”–full stop. From the sound of things...they ain’t goin’ home anytime soon! Vist them at their website: http://www.ageofdaze.com Or their Myspace site at: http://www.myspace.com/ageofdaze
Some bands take years to write and record that first record. You only make your debut once. Certain acts nail it right off the bat, find the groove, the move, the message, the splendor and the blunder and oh yeah, the wonder. The Doors and Pearl Jam found it in a flash. So did Guns N’ Roses. Revelation Theory, however, did not. Make no mistake, Truth is Currency – the band’s 2005 toe-dip into the ocean of professional rock n’ roll, produced by Grammy winner Paul Ebersold (3 Doors Down, Saliva) – is no slouch. It’s an honest, raw, somewhat timid yet well-intentioned effort. Highlighted by the gritty ‘Slowburn,’ the LP did what a virgin indie (Element Records) release is supposed to. It put the band on the road, in a van, with a pizza and Pepsi diet and taught them the priceless art of how to judiciously juggle the back bunk when a local lady demands a personal tour of the bus. In other words, Truth is Currency permitted Revelation Theory a glimpse of the dream or in romantic terms, a career. Young acts get so Tsunami-ed by the illusion that because they have a record and a tour, their shit suddenly stopped producing an obnoxious aroma. Take it from a fly whose buzzed around these walls since commissioning the review of The Crue’s Too Fast for Love for CHIC Magazine in 1983, no glory cometh to the lazy or entitled. Too Fast sucked in many ways except one: Its raw, uncaring, attitude ignited the 80s glam metal movement all the delight and decadence that came with it. The Crue also toured their tattooed leather trousers off and Nikki Sixx never stopped writing. In 1990, evolution spawned Dr. Feelgood, a hard rock masterpiece. Which brings us to the purpose of my inhaling this rarefied air of corporate composition. I fucking LOVE the second, brave, loud, crunchy, hook-sick, bombastic, Appetite-inspired long play from the band once called Revelation Theory but who now simply go by the brilliantly ambiguous moniker, Rev Theory. My theory is that Rich Luzzi, Julien Jorgensen, Dave Agoglia, Matt McCloskey and Rikki Lixx aren’t that hung up on names. Revelation, revolution, revulsion, reversion, reverence –just call ‘em Rev then shut the fuck up and prepare to rock. Do you know how often a vintage-riffed, throat-blazing anthem comes along? The kind of song that whether it’s cranking off your stereo or pummeling you live from the stage, it demands your heartfelt, fist-pumping participation? You must join in the chorus or the shame is just too much to bear? “Gimme a Hell/Gimme a Yeah/Stand Up Right now!” Track one on Rev Theory’s triumphant new LP, Light it Up, is destined to be a concert call to action that will raise the roofs off every building these east coast-bred rockers invade on their trek across Planet Rock. “Hell Yeah” is a raging hard on, poised to penetrate, and the exquisite pain upon entry symbolizes how good it can feel when a group of musicians really nail it. Nothing fuels my faith in rockers more than a band that’s paid their dues yet remains in gratitude for the journey. For three years, Rev Theory toured tirelessly -- opening for the likes of Evanescence, Papa Roach, Buck Cherry and Saliva – vending their humble independent wares to audience members who’d just worked up a good sweat and decent pulse rate. They stood outside venues before and after shows with CDs, stickers, flyers, and an endless energy to connect with their organically growing fan base. And when the back of the bus wasn’t vibrating, these boys were writing songs. Really strong songs, the compost of Light it Up. Feigning hyperbole and at the risk of being branded biased because I’m on assignment, I say without hesitation that this is one of the strongest sophomore efforts I’ve heard in quite some time. Through the brilliant production mentoring Brian Howes and Josh Abraham, Rev Theory has blossomed beautifully. In melody, musicianship and sonic sweetness, Light it Up smokes like a Rastafarian reefer. “Wanted Man,” “Falling Down,” and the monstrous title track snap the neck with whiplash force. Lead singer Rich and bassist Matty combine to form a vocal powerhouse, harrowingly harmonious in their two-prong tonsil attack that marries gloriously with Julien’s locomotive rhythms and Dave’s thunderous skins. But my most beloved foray into frenetic fun is “Favorite Disease.” This song is so infectious; it may indeed prove to be hazardous to one’s health. Okay, all cuteness aside, Rev Theory did not just appear on the radar like a UFO blip and has no designs on being the ‘next big thing or fad-driven flavor of the minute. They could give a fuck. . Like so many serendipitous street stories, this one was written outside the lines. “Dave, Julien and I have been friends since college,” says Rich. “One night we met at this bar and started singing cover songs and Julien said, ‘Dude, I had no idea you had such great pipes.’” The back-story of a rock group isn’t what catches your attention or keeps you engaged. A million bands and a million tales – some make it, some don’t, most never get the chance – what matters is the music. What always matters is the music. The music and the ears upon which those tunes are falling, also known as the proud and loyal fan. Rev Theory is conscious of that reality because they are fans themselves. Recording and performing are scared trusts they collectively cherish. Light it Up passed through them from beyond the beyond. Now it’s yours. Revel in that. Lonn Friend Copyright Rumi Enterprises 2008 Visit them at their website here: http://www.revtheory.com Or their Myspace site at: http://www.myspace.com/revtheory
At the age of 8, Michael Wilton inherited a bass from his uncle, who died tragically in a motorcycle accident in San Leandro, CA. His parents then relocated to Bellevue, Washington where he acquired a nylon acoustic from an aunt and began listening to his father's vast record collection. Michael's early influences were The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Mountain, The Allman Brothers, Bob Dylan, Lou Reed and the San Francisco scene. Having a love for the bass he learned the notes and a few scales and began emulating some of his favorite tunes. He figured out how to hook into his father's receiver to get a really distorted fuzzy sound. Wilton began to learn some Mountain songs and played until he blew up his father's speakers; his father was not amused. He convinced his parents to UPS his uncle's Fender Bassman and speaker cabinet, which became his amp all the way through high school. While in junior high school Wilton sent away for a mail order Les Paul copy and a fuzz box. He also bought a guitar book and began learning the basics, playing bass in some garage bands and soon took over the guitar position because Michael could play Zeppelin tunes. In high school, he started to listen to hard rock; bands like Judas Priest, UFO, Iron Maiden, and Van Halen and began practicing a minimum of 2 hours a day. He then met Chris DeGarmo and the two played in several garage bands, most notably Joker and Crossfire. After high school, Wilton attended the Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle where his studies included jazz and classical music and where he learned to appreciate ethnic and improvisational music. Chris and Michael then met Scott Rockenfield and Eddie Jackson, and began collaborating on original music as well as some heavy cover tunes. They played some parties and roller rinks with different singers calling themselves The Mob, but were not satisfied with that direction. Then they met Geoff Tate and asked if he would be interested in recording a demo of some original tunes. In the late summer of 1982 they recorded four songs during the graveyard hours at Triad Studios in Redmond, WA. They played the tape for the owner of Easy Street Records and agreed to have the tape sent to various sources. A magazine in the UK called Kerrang! gave them a great review and the phone calls started coming. They decided to press a small amount of EPs on their own label, called 206 Records. After signing a deal with Harris Management, they quit their day jobs and changed the name of the band to Queensrÿche. The rest is just a work in progress... Visit Michael at his website: http://www.michaelwilton.com Or his Myspace site here: www.myspace.com/michaelwilton Visit Queensryche on Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/queensryche
IN THE BEGINNING .... It all began in Nova Scotia late in 1969. The Henman brothers, David and Ritchie, got together with their cousin Jim Henman and fellow musician Myles Goodwyn to form a band called April Wine, a name chosen simply because they were two words that sounded good together. Fifteen studio albums, three live releases, numerous compilations, a boxed set and thousands of concerts later April Wine has become enormously popular in Canada, the United States and throughout the world. THE FIRST DECADE .... By the spring of 1970 April Wine had relocated from Halifax to Montreal and were making a self-titled album for Aquarius Records. This first album established Myles Goodwyn as a composer with Fast Train receiving much airplay throughout Canada and becoming the main reason April Wine was able to record a second album. In the fall of 1971 Jim Henman left the band and was replaced by Montreal native Jim Clench. Famed producer Ralph Murphy worked with the group on their second album On Record. Murphy's mission was to give April Wine a major international hit and he came very close to doing just that. The album pushed the band into the North American public spotlight for the first time. You Could Have Been a Lady, originally recorded in England by Hot Chocolate, was a phenomenal hit for April Wine. This song provided the band with a #1 hit in Canada and allowed them to crack Billboard's Top 30 in the USA where it remained for 11 weeks. On Record also included another notable tune; a cover of Elton John's Bad Side Of The Moon. Following the Gold success of the second album it was clear that April Wine had the chance to become one of Canada's most significant rock bands. Ralph Murphy would be back to produce the follow up album but there would be changes in the band. By the completion of Electric Jewels a new April Wine would emerge. This band would no longer include the Henman brothers. THE NEXT GENERATION .... Early in 1973 the two remaining members, Myles Goodwyn and Jim Clench, faced the dilemma of taking the band to the next level. After a few auditions Jerry Mercer and Gary Moffet joined the band and April Wine became a tighter, flashier band. The two new members helped to complete album number three; Electric Jewels. This album remains a fan favorite with such classic songs as Weeping Widow, Just Like That and Lady Run Lady Hide. It provides a great example of the writing talents of Goodwyn and Clench. The following spring the band hit the road with a national tour called The Electric Adventure. This tour was the first to use dramatic lighting and pyrotechnic displays as an integral part of their show, a feature that would prove to be extremely popular during their international stardom and would lend influence to various emerging artists, Garth Brooks for one. THE MAKING OF THE CLASSICS .... Many people consider Stand Back to be one of the band's greatest accomplishments. This album provided the hits Tonight Is A Wonderful Time To Fall In Love and I Wouldn't Want To Lose Your Love but the non-hits were even more remarkable. Songs like Cum Hear The Band, Slowpoke, Don't Push Me Around and Oowatanite helped push Stand Back to Double-Platinum status in Canada. With the release of The Whole World's Goin' Crazy, Steve Lang had replaced Jim Clench on bass guitar. This album made April Wine the first Canadian band to achieve Platinum advance sales orders and included another April Wine classic in the ballad Like A Lover, Like A Song. Forever For Now, the band's sixth album, included a Canadian music milestone for the band; the best selling Canadian single the band ever released. Both the single, You Won't Dance With Me, as well as the album reached critical acclaim with the single reaching Gold and the album reaching Gold then Platinum in Canada. A LITTLE HELP FROM OUR FRIENDS .... The year was 1977 and when The Rolling Stones decided to record Love You Live at the El Mocambo Club in Toronto April Wine was the "smoke screen". April Wine was selected to pose as the headliner for a charity event with a group called The Cockroaches as the opening act. Of course the Cockroaches, to everyone's delight, turned out to be The Rolling Stones. April Wine's album Live At The El Mocambo was a compilation of April Wine's most popular concert songs with two additional covers and the studio track She's No Angel, which went onto become a Canadian hit. The subsequent tour led to yet another change for the band. NOW WE'RE FIVE .... Following the release of Live At The El Mocambo a fifth member was added to the band. Brian Greenway joined the lineup for the summer 1977 tour and gave the group some added flexibility. Brian could sing, write and play harmonica but his greatest contribution to April Wine was on guitar. Since Myles was a surprisingly skilled keyboard player it was invaluable to have a third guitar player and April Wine could now create arrangements for three guitars which would develop into the group's trademark power rock image during the following years. THE CAPITOL YEARS .... The band's seventh studio album would prove to be the group’s turning point. It was the third single from First Glance that made April Wine an international success. Radio listeners in Flint Michigan made Roller a top request number. This single was eventually a Top 30 hit in the U.S.A. and First Glance became the band's first Gold record outside of Canada. Roller remained on Billboard's Hot 100 Singles chart for 11 weeks while First Glance stayed on Billboard's 200 Album chart for 11 weeks as well. 1979 proved to be a very good year for Canadian Wine indeed. Major artists such as Rush, Journey and Styx requested that April Wine open their shows in the United States. American audiences were finally being exposed to this "new" band called April Wine. Canada's best kept secret was finally out in the open. It was a confident group that recorded Harder...Faster in the summer of 1979. The album featured the hardest rock that April Wine had ever recorded. This album included such powerful songs as I Like To Rock, which American radio embraced, and Say Hello which went to the top of the charts in Canada. The popularity of these songs helped keep the album on Billboard's 200 Album charts for a whopping 40 weeks! Harder...Faster helped the group collect more Gold and Platinum awards on both sides of the border. The first months of 1980 saw April Wine touring as Nazareth's opening act throughout the United States. In city after city promoters remarked on the powerful pairing of the bands. Most felt that the show would be a better draw if April Wine headlined. The time had finally come for April Wine to take top billing outside of Canada. A decade of hard work had finally paid off. THE SECOND DECADE .... The group's ninth studio album, The Nature Of The Beast, became April Wine's greatest success. Released in January of 1981, the first single Just Between You and Me broke Billboard's Top 20 and remained on the their Hot 100 Singles chart for 16 weeks. The same song hit position number 11 on Billboard's Album Rock Track chart and charted for an incredible 10 weeks. Later that year the millionth copy of the album was sold in the U.S.A. and April Wine had finally attained international "Platinum" status. The song Crash And Burn was even featured in an NBC Movie of the Week! The album remained on Billboard's 200 Album chart for 34 weeks peaking at the 26th position. The album went on to claim more awards for the group as it collected Gold and Platinum on both sides of the border and Double Platinum in Canada. During the 1980's April Wine had the strongest concert repertoire ever and the demand for appearances had never been greater. They were in demand in Canada, the United Sates, England and Germany. In fact it seemed their popularity was traveling more than they were. There was the feeling that the band could tour forever. Whether writing the songs, producing them, or promoting them, Myles Goodwyn had been working against some kind of "deadline" for the last three years with no significant time off. He needed a break... so he took one. After a hiatus of 18 months, during which the band recorded Power Play with such cutting edge hits as Anything You Want You Got It and Enough is Enough, the band was ready to tour again. The 1982 Power Play tour was the largest tour April Wine had ever attempted. It incorporated the most elaborate stage the band had ever used. Their return to Canada, after two years away, saw them sell out shows across the country. Yes the band was welcomed home with open arms but Power Play, even though successful, did not meet with the critical international acclaim that the group's previous two albums enjoyed. Both Enough Is Enough and If You See Kay charted on Billboard's Album Rock Tracks and remained there for a number of weeks but Enough Is Enough only remained on Billboard's Hot 100 Singles chart for 8 weeks. However the album itself peaked Billboard's 200 Album chart at 37 and remained on the chart for a strong 20 weeks, still a phenomenal accomplishment, but perhaps not enough for this perfectionist band from Canada. With the release of Animal Grace, the group's eleventh undertaking, things took a turn for the worse. This Could Be The Right One entered the charts very quickly but stalled just as abruptly. The album had taken an extremely long time to record and a rift had begun to form in the band. In a move that seemed to symbolize the distance between Myles and the band, he and his family moved to the Bahamas. The group would get together once more for a farewell tour of Canada. The tour was a bittersweet one, with the die-hard fans realizing what lay ahead. A twelfth studio album was released that featured only two remaining members of the group; Myles and Brian. The rest had decided to go their separate ways. THE SOLO YEARS .... Myles Goodwyn subsequently released a self-titled
In April of 1973 Steve (Lips) Kudlow and Robb Reiner began their journey for fame and fortune on the long hard road of rock music. It was during this time that Lips and Robb began to create their distinctive musical, metal sound that would become one of the most influential to ever come out of Canada. When they teamed up with Dave Allison and Ian Dickson in 1977, they became LIPS and later, the “Speed Metal Gods” ANVIL, as the world would came to know them. The roots of Anvil began in Toronto Canada, when high school friends Steve "Lips" Kudlow and Robb Reiner began playing music together. It was not until 1978 that the first lineup that was to become Anvil was formed: Kudlow (lead vocals, lead guitar), Reiner (drums), Dave Allison (vocals, rhythm guitar) and Ian Dickson (bass). Together they were known as LIPS. In 1981, the band released an independent album called Hard 'N Heavy. Shortly after they were signed by Attic Records and changed their name to Anvil and the independent album was re-released by Attic as their debut album. In 1987 they were approached by American label Metal Blade Records. They released three records with Metal Blade Records starting with Strength Of Steel. Anvil were then picked up by Maximum Records, an independent Canadian label that was formed by Helix's manager-at-the-time William Seip. From 1996 they were signed by Hypnotic Records in Canada and Massacre Records in Germany. The recording and release of their 13th album, THIS IS THIRTEEN, is covered in the rockumentary "Anvil! The Story of Anvil". The band's history has been documented in the film, Anvil! The Story of Anvil and in large part due to the film, has helped put Anvil back into the public consciousness and has propelled them to playing several festivals including Glastonbury Festival and Download Festival in 2009. Anvil were finally inducted into the Canadian Music Hall Of Fame on March 6th 2009, which in many opinions, mine included, was long overdue. Visit Anvil on their Myspace site: http://www.myspace.com/anvilmetal
About The Next Level Entertainment Consulting Inc. Based in Alberta Canada, The Next Level Entertainment Inc. (TNLEC) is a Canadian Artist Development firm that knows how to create the buzz to get your project moving. The principals of TNLEC have a combined 37 years of Entertainment Industry experience which is further enhanced through a network of specialized industry professionals and strategic alliances. They are serious, knowledgeable and dedicated to the career growth of their clients. TNLEC helps the artist do what they do...BETTER! TNLEC provides clients with management without becoming the 'Manager', designing and implementing a growth strategy that remains in the artists hands. And they do all of this without asking you to sign long-term contracts, instead, working on a month to month, project to project basis for as long as working together makes good business sense. TNLEC provides Artist Development services that include setting career goals, business education, image consulting and brand creation, social and viral marketing strategies/implementation, marketing and promotion, publicity, recording and video project management, event production, sponsorship development, merchandise programs and, of course, gig and tour bookings. Traditional artist development models are all but obsolete as the music industry barriers to success are being torn down. There has never been a better time for the Independent Artist to get noticed. While great songwriting, musicianship and a big live show are all critical, so too is great promotion and strategic marketing. Playing constantly and touring relentlessly is the best way to build the "buzz" for your project. The music industry is jam packed with part-time, unqualified people in temporary positions. TNLEC is passionate about giving their clients all the tools to advance their careers. The Next Level Entertainment & Consulting Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/thenextlevelentertainmentconsultinginc ______________________________ The Trews You can hear it in the first four bars of the album. A meaty, beaty, big and bouncy drum fill, followed by a glistening guitar line that could have been ripped from an old Rockpile album, and a breathy Hammond B3 so beautifully captured that it seems to conjure the dimensions of the room it sits in. It’s huge, but intimate. Heavy, but airborne. And the hook is strong enough that you could hang a whale from it. The Trews’ reputation is built on buffed and visceral rock songs, but on NO TIME FOR LATER they cohere like never before. The structures are more compelling, the playing is more articulate, and the results more nourishing. And the group’s musical breakthrough has certainly been noticed by others, including shock rock legend ALICE COOPER, who christened The Trews “A great young band with a Zeppelin feel”, the Calgary Sun called the album “A regular masterpiece of rock n’ roll”, while Creative Loafing raved, “Exciting, brash crunch rockers who connect like prime Humble Pie.” And in the great rock tradition of Van Halen, the Black Crowes and AC/DC, the Trews include a brother tandem within their ranks – singer/guitarist Colin MacDonald and guitarist John Angus MacDonald. Raised in a hippy household listening to a record collection that mostly consisted of late 60's and early 70's rock, their father, an aspiring musician himself, always had music playing and had a great influence on the musical inclination of his kids. From an early age Colin and John were always encouraged to play music and both picked up the guitar in their early teenage years. Colin was always steered toward the art of singing while John Angus put most of his focus on mastering the guitar. The MacDonald family moved around quite a bit so the boys spent some of their high school years living in the Caribbean. It was while living in Barbados in 1995 when the two decided to form a rock and roll band. Slowly but surely, the pieces began falling in place for the group that eventually became the Trews. If it’s the shrewd marriage of different rock styles that accounts for the Trews’ remarkable multi-generational appeal, then NO TIME FOR LATER finds the band expanding at all ends of the spectrum. And they put on a kick-ass live performance. Go check 'em out!! Visit The Trews on their website: http://www.thetrewsmusic.com Or on their Myspace site: http://www.myspace.com/thetrews
With influences ranging from Megadeth, Children of Bodom, Arch Enemy, Iced Earth, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Kreator, Old Metallica, 3 Inches of Blood, Death, Pantera, Slayer, Exodus, Kalmah, it should come as no surprise that Untimely Demise honed their skills from some of metal and thrash's forefathers in those genres and seem destined to become the latest and greatest new thrash metal band to come out of Canada. I would even go so far as to say they are the best thrash band hailing from north of the border. Born and raised in small-town Saskatoon Saskatchewan, band members Matthew Cuthbertson (Lead&Rhythm Guitar/Vocals), Murray Cuthbertson (Bass), Scott Cross (Drums) and Noel Wilcox (Lead Guitar) gave up the comforts of a nice apartment to scrounge enough money together so they could fly to Toronto in November of 2008 and spend time in ex-Megadeth guitarist Glen Dover's recording studio. Glen helped produce the EP titled Full Speed Metal, which also features some wicked guitar solo work by the talented Drover himself on the track titled My Tragedy. Horns up! Visit Untimely Demise on Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/untimelydemisemusic
Glen Drover's influences include Tony MacAlpine, Al Di Meola, Randy Rhoads, Greg Howe, Michael Romeo, George Lynch, Warren DeMartini and David Gilmour. The Drover brothers formed the thrash/power metal band Eidolon in 1996, releasing seven albums to date. In 1998, Drover joined King Diamond and appeared on the House of God album. In 2004, Drover joined thrash metal band Megadeth, bringing along his brother Shawn. Following an extensive world tour, Drover contributed to Megadeth's 2007 release, United Abominations as the lead guitarist and with co-writing credits for one song. While busy recording that album, Drover also cut a guest guitar solo for the track "Emotional Coma" (featured on the album Emotional Coma) by Swedish metal group Lion's Share. In 2007 Glen made a guest appearance on Canadian power metal group, 7th Reign's self-titled debut. Glen is now collaborating with Stephan Forte of the band Adagio on a 10 track instrumental CD. In January 2008 Glen Drover left Megadeth, his last show with them was on November 18, 2007 in Brisbane, Australia. On the 22 Oct 2008 Testament announced that they have recruited guitarist Glen Drover to fill in on their upcoming Mexican tour dates with Judas Priest, Due to Alex Skolnick's prior commitment to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Visit Glen Drover on his official website: http://www.glendrover.ca Or on Myspace here: http://www.myspace.com/glendroverofficial
Todd Kerns is the voice of Canuck legends THE AGE OF ELECTRIC and their critically acclaimed spin-off STATIC IN STEREO. Now as a thriving solo artist and producer/songwriter, Todd is very much alive and well. He has played on legendary stages from The Whiskey A Go Go and The Roxy in LA, to CBGBs in New York City, to Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto and has no intention of stopping anytime soon. Born and reared in the heartland of the Canadian praries Todd first garnered attention with his first band THE AGE OF ELECTRIC who went on to attain Gold selling status, as well as being nominated for a Juno (Canada’s Grammy). THE AGE OF ELECTRIC worked with luminary producers Bob Rock (Metallica) and Gil Norton (Foo Fighters) and are still remembered as one of Canada’s favorite alternative rockers. After THE AGE OF ELECTRIC Todd and brother, former AOE bass player, John formed STATIC IN STEREO with youngest brother Ryan. STATIC IN STEREO’s self titled album went on to receive critical acclaim and secured Todd’s place as a fixture on the Canadian music scene. In 2004 Todd released his first solo album GO TIME. A collection of original songs influenced by the artists closest to Todd’s heart including T-Rex, Bowie, MC5 and The Stooges, GO TIME swells and bursts with attitude and swagger. Todd has appeared on albums by such artists as THE MATTHEW GOOD BAND, BIF NAKED and most recently lent his voice to the successful project called THE NEVERENDING WHITE LIGHTS. He is respected as one of Canada’s most dependable vocalists. Recently Todd has delved into his other passion, production and songwriting with other artists. He has produced and written with a number of artists and continues to share his knowledge of all things musical with artists he believes in. Artists such as BRITT BLACK, MOTION SOUNDTRACK, SUPERBEING, THE FLAIRS, SEVENTH RAIN, JOSHUA’S HABIT, A SINGLE FEW, AKA and more have all benefited from Todd’s helping hand. Todd’s charity work with The White Ribbon Foundation-Men Working To End Men’s Violence Towards Women with artists like THE TEA PARTY, RUSH, DANIEL LANOIS and many more continues to this day. Todd is now a member of The Sin City Sinners, who perform to packed houses weekly in Las Vegas. The band is joined by all star guests and plans to record a CD of new music are underway for summer 2009. Visit Todd Kerns on his official website at: http://www.toddkerns.com Or his Myspace site here: http://www.myspace.com/toddkerns