Singer Chantelle Barry

Chantelle Barry is a singer and actress from Australia, who has been performing since she was 7 years old. Her big break came in 2000, when she was chosen to be in the Australian TV series Popstars in an all girl group, alongside Sophie Monk, who also gained notable success from the show.

Chantelle was offered several opportunities from being on Popstars, including being chosen to model in FHM Magazine- a famous Australian men’s magazine. After working in Australia, Chantelle decided to pack her bags and head to the bright lights of LA to further her career in music and acting and hasn’t looked back since.

To date, Chantelle has appeared in: “How I met Your Mother ”, “Entourage”, “90210”, the “Paul Reiser Show”, appeared in the feature film, “Couples Retreat” starring Vince Vaughn, and Kanye West‘s music video “Jesus Walks”.

Staying in shape is also a major part of Chantelle’s life as she lives in Manhattan Beach and attributes jogging on the beach to helping with her vocal performances and stress levels. Being in the entertainment industry can be very demanding and that is why Chantelle keeps a level head and her close friends and family in her life, to help keep her grounded.

Chantelle has just released her new album “Songbird” on itunes, which includes the hits “Simple Things”, “You” and many other catchy and melodic songs. The album showcases Chantelle’s amazing voice and songwriting abilities, which could be compared to the likes of Shania Twain or Natalie Imbruglia. “Songbird” was co-written and produced by Actor/Musician Scott Whyte, who is also a member of Chantelle’s band. Most recently Chantelle had her official album release at The Mint in LA, which received amazing reviews and a huge turnout. Growing up in Australia, some of Chantelle’s biggest influences in music have been Sade, Doris Day, Elvis Presley, Tina Arena and John Farnham. Chantelle counts friend Lionel Richie as one of her biggest inspirations and mentors in the industry and he has been quoted as saying “Chantelle is the world’s best kept secret- long overdue”.

When back in Australia, Chantelle has appeared on “Good Morning Australia”, as well as “Sunrise” and has toured with her band in several cities. Chantelle has performed in LA, in venues such as Hotel Cafe, The Cat Club, Ghengis Cohen and more. Chantelle’s songwriting skills have earned her in 1st Place at the UK Songwriting Contest for her song “You” which is currently being played on the radio in the mid west, a Top 5 Finalist in the Songwriters Universe “Song Of The Month” contest, a 1st & 3rd place in the Song of the Year songwriting contest and a Top 10 spot in the Music Nation online music competition.  Chantelle was also nominated in the Hollywood Music in Media Awards for best song for “Love Someone” & “Take a walk with me” which have both been placed in several films this year.

Acting wise, Chantelle was recently cast in the new Kevin VanHook movie”Jason and the Necronauts” playing the role of Queen Medea opposite Casper VanDien, which is set to be released in the near future. For Chantelle, the highlight of her career so far, was her role in the independent movie “Thunder Geniuses”, where she formed a special friendship with a lot of the cast members from the film and has remained close friends with them including meeting her creative partner, Scott Whyte, who also appeared in the film. The most wonderful attributes that stand out about Chantelle is her kind heart, passion for helping others and her down to earth Australian attitude that has helped her to be in the position she is in today. You can also find Chantelle as a featured artist on the well known music site “RealMagicTV”, alongside the likes of Lady Gaga and Maroon 5.

Chantelle’s amazing new album “Songbird” is available to purchase through itunes at:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/songbird/id516957572

Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, CHICAGO is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her on-the-side lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, she dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by hiring Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer to transform her malicious crime into a barrage of sensational headlines, the likes of which might just as easily be ripped from today’s tabloids.

Now in its 16th year on Broadway, the record-breaking smash hit musical CHICAGO is now the fourth longest-running production in Broadway history.  With a legendary book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb, CHICAGO is the winner of six 1997 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival and the Grammy Award for Best Musical Cast Recording.

LA’s The Place Marc Chamberlain covered the Los Angeles premiere and chatted briefly with Christie Brinkley before the show.

Click here to view the embedded video.

I caught up with Christie Brinkley on the red carpet before her opening performance, who looked absolutely stunning at a young 58 years old.  I remember Christie as a young supermodel starring in Billy Joel’s hit video “Uptown Girl” and who has graced the cover of over 500 magazines.  I asked Christie how she stays you young and said one of her secrets is doing lots of yoga.  Christie has been very busy, having launched the “Christie Brinkley Beauty” a line of all-natural skin care products, all while raising 3 children.  I would never have thought I would see her transform herself into an actress.  Christie told me, “I never knew how to act, sing or dance” before being casted in CHICAGO and was a little nervous at first.”  You wouldn’t know it as she put on an amazing performance as Roxie Hart.  It goes to show you, you can do whatever you put your mind to.  She truly brought her character to life, her voice was amazing, and her dancing was superb.  Says Christie, “I am so happy to be back in LA, I am looking forward to my kids coming out to see me, and taking them to Disneyland”.  Disneyland happens to one of her favorite places to visit with her kids.

All together the rest of cast did an amazing job as well.  I personally wasn’t really a fan of musical theatre before this, but this performance of CHICAGO has truly made me a fan and has given me a new outlook on theatre.  If you ever wanted to see a Broadway play and cannot make it to New York, now is your chance to see one of the most successful musicals of our time. I highly recommend going to see CHICAGO, and Christie Brinkley as Roxie at the Pantages Theatre.  The show runs from May 15- May 27.  Seeing a live show at the Pantages is truly something you have to check off your to-do list!

PERFORMANCE INFORMATION:  Tickets are available at www.BroadwayLA.org or www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling

1-800-982-2787, as well as at the Pantages Box Office (6233 Hollywood Blvd) and all Ticketmaster Outlets.  Performances are Tue-Fri at 8pm,

Saturdays at 2pm & 8pm and Sundays at 1pm & 6:30pm.  Recommended for Ages 13 and up (Everyone must have a ticket; children under 5 will not be admitted to the theatre) Running Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes including intermission.  Tickets start at $25 in the orchestra

This time out he expresses his sensitive side both the dark and light. Maintaining control on this album has given him free reign to set himself apart as a pop star and allow himself to be genuine and accepting of his shortcomings. One of the most highly anticipated CD of the year Lambert excels on this dynamic CD and doesn’t disappoint. The CD has already reached No. 1 on iTunes.

His 2009 debut release, For Your Entertainment, scored the smash single Whataya Want From Me debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard Top 200 chart and then Lambert set out on his 2010 Glam Nation World Tour, taking his electrifying show to thousands of fans across the globe who screamed his name

Adam Lambert

and happily sang along with every word of his genre-bending electro-pop-rock songs. For Your Entertainment was more glam and cheeky and a bit rushed in comparison with Trespassing. On Trespassing Lambert had more time to put together this labor of love and hope for his fans will go along for the ride. He is more raw and revealing on this record but also finds himself happy, excited and comfortable in his own skin. Lambert explains, “The search for balance is a key underlying theme of this album, while the point of For Your Entertainment was that it was literally ‘for YOUR entertainment,’ it was designed as presentational album, very showy and theatrical; a little something for everyone. This album, Trespassing, is more honest and self-aware. I think it paints a clearer picture of who I am and what I want out of life.”

Trespassing the title track finds himself asserting himself as an outsider in society. This disc provides an exciting journey through Lambert’s past two years of his life. He says, “It’s been a transformative period and I really wanted to make music from what I’ve experienced. All these songs honestly explore the ups and downs of my reality.” The song really exposes his and this tune discovers his vulnerable side and is a wonderful way to start off this fantastic disc with its anthemic rant.

Cuckoo is electro-pop dance track with a driving beat — expressing he desire to party until the break of day. Shady is getting your funk on and get freaky party track with the help Nile Rodgers and Sam Sparro gets you up on your feet and dancing. Better Than I Know Myself seems to have stalled at radio but Lambert has dusted himself off and has appeared on several late night T.V. shows including Jimmy Kimmel, Chelsea Lately and the Ellen show singing his second single Never Close Our Eyes a song about cherishing every day as if it were your last. Kickin’ In is an urban R&B track something like a cross between MJ and Usher with the Lambert twist. Naked Love talks about the pureness of a relationship. No wonder he finds himself in a happy monogamous relationship. Underneath is the most vulnerable ballad on the disc yet admitting the hardship of being an outsider and trying to find the tenderness and compassion within himself. He also delves his feeling discrimination of the LGBT community on this hauntingly beautiful Outlaws of Love song lifting the veil off Lambert’s personality a little bit more. The deluxe version of the album includes three bonus songs Runnin’, Take Back, and Nirvana.

Lambert says “I think that as an artist, and as a person, I’m always growing. For this album, I wanted to evolve and explore new sounds. Having been on tour for a year, and really understanding what gets my fans both dancing AND crying, I had a better idea of the type of music that I wanted to create. Also, having been through the experience of becoming a public person, I know myself better as an artist. I’m more in tune with the things that I want to express and the stereotypes that I want to challenge. This album is the most vulnerable I’ve let myself get. These are my real ideas, dreams, fears, and struggles — that’s what I’m singing about.”

“I’m a firm believer that life doesn’t just happen to you”, Lambert says. “We are all on a journey that we have the ability to affect and change. Sometimes we have to trespass out of our comfort zone in order to evolve. Trespassing was written about the push and pull that we all go through on our quest for happiness, allowing the listener to find their own balance within my world.”

Check out Adam Lambert on tour this summer with Queen. For all things Adam Lambert please go to: www.adamofficial.com

Confidential Beverly Hills is the brand new and ONLY exclusive nightclub / lounge fusion in Beverly Hills. It’s the epitome of luxury, with an all-white interior and a distinct “Old Hollywood” feel.

Confidential has been open since November and this Wednesday, May 16th, they are launching a weekly cabaret show entitled “Femme Fatale Wednesday’s: The Most Sophisticated Burlesque Show in Town.”

The premiere of “Femme Fatale” will be a sexy and interactive experience of music, dance and burlesque. This amazing production is going to put on by TOLEDO- the famed jazz singer, choreographer and burlesque extraordinaire.

Continental tapas and cocktails will be available throughout the night! Continental tapas and cocktails will be available from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.

And the best part is, entry is free, so come out and enjoy the show! Femme Fatale Wednesday’s will be going on throughout the summer, 8 PM – 2 AM

Confidential Beverly Hills
424 N Beverly Dr., Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Please call 310.275.8511 to book reservations or email info@confidentialbeverlyhills.com

www.confidential90210.com

The world’s best-selling, multi-artist album series, NOW That’s What I Call Music!, have released NOW That’s What I Call Music! Vol. 42 and NOW That’s What I Call Classic Rock Hits on May 1.  Both titles will be available on CD and for download purchase from all major digital service providers.

NOW That’s What I Call Music! Vol. 42 features 16 current major chart hits from today’s hottest artists, including Kelly Clarkson, FLO RIDA, Karmin, One Direction, David Guetta featuring Nicki Minaj, Calvin Harris, Chris Brown, Havana Brown featuring Pitbull, LMFAO, Madonna featuring Nicki Minaj and M.I.A., Gym Class Heroes, Bruno Mars, Gotye featuring Kimbra, Train, Eric Church, and Taylor Swift, plus four free up-and-coming “NOW What’s Next” New Music Preview tracks.

The “NOW What’s Next” bonus track program featured on each numeric NOW release continues to preview hot new artists with tomorrow’s biggest hits. NOW 42 showcases up and coming tracks from Zach Heckendorf, Graffiti6, Jadagrace, and Labrinth featuring Busta Rhymes

NOW That’s What I Call Classic Rock Hits, a new companion collection of 17 huge, genre-defining singles, features Bad Company’s “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” The Kinks’ “Lola,” Peter Frampton’s “Do You Feel Like We Do (Live),” Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird,” Jethro Tull’s “Locomotive Breath,” Thin Lizzy’s “The Boys Are Back In Town,” Steve Miller Band’s “Take The Money And Run,” Cheap Trick’s “I Want You To Want Me (Live),” Foreigner’s “Feels Like The First Time,” Toto’s “Hold The Line,” Eddie Money’s “Baby Hold On,” Journey’s “Any Way You Want It,” Styx’s “Come Sail Away,” Heart’s “Crazy On You,” Chicago’s “25 or 6 to 4,” Manfred Mann’s Earth Band’s “Blinded By The Light,” and Meat Loaf’s “Paradise By The Dashboard Light.”

The NOW That’s What I Call Music! series is a joint venture from EMI Music North America, Sony Music Entertainment, and Universal Music Group.  NOW That’s What I Call Music! Vol. 42 and NOW Classic Rock Hits will be distributed by EMI Music North America.   NOW and NOW That’s What I Call Music!are registered trademarks of EMI (IP) Limited.

The NOW That’s What I Call Music! series debuted in the U.S. in 1998, after 15 years of multi-platinum international success. The series has generated sales exceeding 200 million albums worldwide, including more than 84 million copies in the U.S.  Every album in the numeric U.S. series has reached Billboard’s Top 10, and 15 NOW releases have reached #1, second only to The Beatles in chart history. For more about the NOW series please go to: www.nowthatsmusic.com

"The Voice" Final Four

On May 3, 2012, The Final Four contestants of NBC’s smash singing competition show, “The Voice,” performed live at 10:30 am on Thursday at the Universal CityWalk’s “5 Towers” interactive concert venue.  Fans came by the tram load to this exclusive one-time concert to see their favorite performers sing live. Stay tuned to NBC next Tuesday, May 8th to see who will be voted winner of “The Voice” Season 2. Also, check out our interview with one of the finalist inside…

Last week was the most high-stakes episode of the show yet, when celebrity judges Christina Aguilera, CeeLo Green, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton made their toughest decisions of the season by deciding which member of their team would represent their team in the season finale.  In anticipation of the May 8th final episode, these four finalists sang a special song for their fans at the “5 Towers” stage.

Christina, Ceelo, Adam and Blake invited the fans of their show to come for free and cheer on their favorite finalist at CityWalk’s new interactive outdoor concert venue. Upon arrival, the attendees received complementary T-shirts and posters to commemorate this exclusive event showcasing the leading vocal artists from celebrity musician coaches. The artist lineup that performed at “5 Towers” included Kansas native Chris Mann for Team Christina, Florida native Juliet Simms for Team CeeLo, Connecticut native Tony Lucca for Team Adam, and New York native Jermaine Paul for Team Blake.  Each performer did their best to showcase their talent to the live audience and the world watched online streaming on Facebook, NBC.com and at the NBC Experience Store in New York. It will be exciting to see who will be named “The Voice” in Season 2 of this hit show and receive the grand prize recording contract.

Ceelo was the first to christen the “5 Towers” stage in July 2011. The “5 Towers” literally stands-out for the crowd and is the first-of-its kind outdoor concert venue with fan immersive features and state-of-the-art technology.  The Music Spotlight Series held this spring at “5 Towers” featured Billboard chart-topping talent Carly Rae Jepsen, as well as an exciting and diverse lineup of local homegrown favorites including Cherri Bomb, Midnight Red, The Thomas Nicholas Band, and many more.

“We are so excited to have the finalists from ‘The Voice’ here at the 5 Towers on CityWalk,” said Pat Donahue, Director of CityWalk Entertainment.  “While we’ve hosted established recording artists like Flo Rida, Good Charlotte and Justin Bieber, we also have a strong commitment to supporting emerging artists.  It’s a great privilege to provide up-and-coming talent with an outstanding, state of the art venue to do what they love to do – which is to play great music and entertain the masses!”

Jermaine Paul sat down to talk with LA’s The Place and relax after performing at CityWalk’s “5 Towers” stage.

LATP:         “What did you try to do in your performance today to outshine your competition?”
Jermaine:     “Today, like just right now.”  “I don’t know what I did to outshine anybody.  I just try to do the best Jermaine Paul impression I can possibly do.” Then after a chuckle, he adds. “I’m just trying to be the best me every time I hit the stage. I’m not trying to out do or compete, I mean it’s all art and artistry.  Everybody here has a gift and a talent.  It all deserves to shine. The way you see it, is the way you see it.”

LATP:         “Do you feel confident that you nailed your performance today?”
Jermaine:     “You know it’s so early singing that high @$$ song.  That song is so high, I don’t know what Bon Jovi was thinking when he wrote that song and then it has modulation on top of it.  It’s ridicules!  I just gave my heart and left it out there.  It was real relaxed, no pressure.  I tried to interact with the crowd as much as possible and just had a good time with it.”

LATP:        “You discussed trying that challenge of hitting those high notes, is there anything in particular that the judges and the audience should look for in your performance for the final?”
Jermaine:    “Coming up, I defiantly want to take the inspirational route.  I want to inspire the world.  I want to inspire every person out there that has a dream.  To help every person out there that has been trying to do something with themselves to find their way there.  I just found my way here and it feels amazing to be here!  I just want to make the best of the opportunity and inspire someone in the process.”

LATP:        “You are defiantly inspiring people all over the world.  Do you feel that you are living your dream now and is there more of that dream to come?”
Jermaine:    “You know, it seems like with this competition you go in and your thinking about the beginnings and the end.  You don’t think about all the little obstacles and victories in between.  This is one victory and everyday you try to create a new one hoping to do better things and be victorious.”

LATP:        “Is there anything you did in particular to help you prepare for today’s performance and for the final?’
Jermaine:   “I pray.  I try to keep it defiantly spiritually grounded and move forward every time from one to the next.  That’s all I can say, I can’t take credit for anything.”

"The Voice" Last 8 at Transformers: The Ride-3D

Prior to the final four contestants being announced last week the eight semi-finalists were treated to a behind-the-scenes sneak peek of Universal Studios Hollywood’s epic, new immersion thrill ride, “Transformers: The Ride-3D”. This attraction opens officially on May 25, 2012. More information on Universal CityWalk’s upcoming events is available at www.CityWalkHollywood.com.  Artist announcements and “5 Towers” concert venue events can also be found on Twitter @CityWalkLA and Facebook-Universal CityWalk Hollywood.

"The Voice" Last 8 at Transformers: The Ride-3D

“The Voice” is a vocal competition show featuring celebrity musician coaches Christina Aguilera, CeeLo Green, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton. Carson Daly hosts and serves as producer, and Christina Milian serves as social media correspondent. The show’s innovative format features three stages of competition; the first begins with the blind audition, then the competition enters into a battle phase, and finally, the live performance shows. Each vocal coach will choose one star artist to compete against the other teams’ finalists to be named “The Voice” – the winner will receive the grand prize of a recording contract.

To view the official website for NBC’s “The Voice” click HERE.

Goldfrapp has explored a range of musical styles in their songs, although many of the songs are characterized by Alison Goldfrapp distinctive breathy, soft soprano vocals and Will Gregory’s multi-layered synthesizer and string arrangements.

“The Singles,” is the first compilation from the band, taking the captivating electronic balladry of the Mercury-nominated debut album “Felt Mountain,” the distorted-dancefloor follow-up “Black Cherry,” the glitterball glamour of the Grammy nominated, worldwide million selling dance pop of “Supernature,” the critically acclaimed electro-folk “Seventh Tree,” and last year’s Grammy nominated album, the hands-in-the-air, retro futuristic “Head First.”

“The Singles,” begins with the electronic danceable, “Ooh La La,” as a fantastic way to start off the disc with the breathy, sexy vocals of Alison Goldfrapp. If you remember Norman Greenbaum’s “Spirit In The Sky,” you will recognize that song running in the back of “Ooh La La.” Brilliant idea of pairing the two tracks together.

Will Gregory’s recognizable synthesizer sounds play out on “Number 1,” the second track has a memorizing electric drumbeat and invokes sounds from the ‘80s harkening back tunes reminiscent of Berlin’s Terri Nunn’s vocal acrobatics during that era.

“Strict Machine,” has those now iconic sensual vocals of Goldfrapp as “Utopia,” demonstrates again her sexy, breathy vocals that shapes the tune. At times her vocals are not understandable, but the synthesizer and strings helps move the tracks along.

“Happiness,” is a love song sung as a Beatles sounding track. “Ride a White Horse,” is a rousing disco song looking at the light and dark side and “Rocket,” explores her wanting to send her lover out into space and hoping he’ll never come back. The last three tracks are slow jams culminating in “Black Cherry,” and two new songs on this CD “Yellow Halo,” and “Melancholy Sky,” round out the disc.

“The Singles,” is an fantastic way to have all of Goldfrapp’s outstanding singles in one place. This electro-pop synthesized romp shows you why they are critics favorites with their use of Alison’s sensual and breathy vocals over the top some memorizing and hypnotizing sounds on the electro-disc.

EMI

This three disc set includes the original “The Wall,” two discs plus a bonus CD featuring “Work In Progress,” which includes three (3) Programmes of the bands original demos Roger Waters put together for the final material set to be used for “The Wall”. Released in November 1979, “The Wall,” topped the album charts in the U.S., France, Germany, Sweden and Austria. “Another Brick in The Wall, Part 2” — Pink Floyd’s first UK single since 1968 — became a Number 1 hit, selling more that one million copies within weeks of its release.

Between 1980 and 1981, Pink Floyd staged perhaps one of the best and most successful concert experiences staging 31 performances of “The Wall” in the US, UK and Germany. It was a spectacular show that included a 40-Foot wall, constructed, brick by brick across the front of the stage during the performance. In 2010 and 2011 Roger Waters toured the new production of “The Wall” to huge international acclaim. He was joined onstage in May 2011 at London’s 02 Arena by guitarist David Gilmour and drummer Nick Mason. He continues to tour in the Southern Hemisphere and North America in 2012.

“The Wall,” Experience edition is a 3 disc CD includes the original “Wall” album material along with a special disc featuring the third CD of “Work In Progress” demos Roger Waters’ original selection of band demos.

This third CD starts off with a women’s voice (Vera Lynn) sounding scratchy and very much like a 40’s radio spot. The CD is broken down into three Programs (Programmes) Programme 1featuring three versions of “Another Brick In the Wall,” Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3. Then there is the piano driven “The Thin Ice,” as well as three songs…”Teacher Teacher,” “Empty Spaces,” and “Sexual Revolution,” that never found their way onto the final version of this stellar CD.

Programme 2 has “Another Brick in the Wall,” Part 2 and Part 3. Part 2 is soulful as Part 3 is more psychedelic and features a rousing version of “Mother.”

Programme 3 features a women’s voice over “One of My Turns,” with a electronic version to “Goodbye Cruel World,” and stella version of “The Doctor (Comfortably Number) and finishes off with “Run Like Hell.” A highlight for fans this demo showcases the evolution of the final track and “The Doctor,” explores the origins of the landmark track “Comfortably Numb,” giving further insight into Pink Floyd’s early demo recordings. These new versions of “The Wall,” offer listeners a unique insight into another hugely successful chapter in the Pink Floyd story.

In 1978, after finishing Pink Floyd’s Animals stadium tour, Roger Waters devised the concept for the album, “The Wall.” The album is partly autobiographical story about a fictional rock star named Pink looking back at his early life and reflecting on the nature of fame and success.

Waters presented his band mates David Gilmour, Richard Wright and Nick Mason with and extensive demo of songs. Pink Floyd recorded their eleventh album, “The Wall,” throughout 1979 in France, New York, and Los Angeles assisted by co-producer, Bob Ezrin and engineer, James Guthrie.

An adjunct to the sessions was the famous addition of a group of pupils from London’s Islington Green School, who recorded their backing vocals (“We don’t need no education…”) on “Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2,” at Pink Floyd’s own Britannia Row Studios in London. This became the world’s introduction to the album with the release of its first single, an instant success, accompanied by a promotional film which included several of the groundbreaking images from the story, including Gerald Scarfe’s brilliantly realized marching hammers. These sets are truly collectors editions and a wonderful addition to your CD library.

For all things Pink Floyd please go to: www.pinkfloyd.com

The current state of the music industry is much like a rock-pile, and for any group to standout and survive in the crowded sea of bands, they have to do something entirely unique, innovative, or even retroactive to get to the top.

Sydney, Australia’s Drop Tank has chosen to take the latter approach and apply their own style of music to what would otherwise be a band that recently exited a time machine from the 70′s. Their music is riddled with speedy, thrashy riffs, off-the-cuff solos, cascading drum fills all topped off with the punkish, female vocal stylings reminiscent of Joan Jett or even Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart.

The band’s most recent release is the EP called “Domina”. It’s a sonic step up from their earlier self-titled release. The band was able to record in a studio this time around, as you’ll notice a slight increase in sound quality. The real improvements though, are made in the song structure and how the instruments mold together. The lead singer Zebidy Tank shows off her punk swag with fast, slurry vocal lines in “Saw Nothing” weaving in and out of riffs and solos, even letting out a fiery, shrill screech once and again.

Guitar tone is pure as ever on “Domina” with the unholy combination of a Gibson SG and a Marshall JCM. One would hope for a few more tracks or even a full length on this release, but “Domina” still manages to capture how the band has evolved over the course of a few years. Currently, Zebidy Tank are working with some exciting new producers on some new tracks, that are said to be mind blowing. They are generating a lot of interest internationally with their music and are embarking on a world tour, that is not to be missed.

As Lead singer and songwriter, Zebidy says: The high energy songs, are “born out of instrumental jams in the mad, dilapidated world of the crumbling building we inhabit. We try to just let songs happen organically without trying to second guess how they’re ‘supposed to sound”. “I think this keeps them sounding more connected to the initial frantic energy that spawns them when we get in the rehearsal room”.

Check out an interview with Zebidy Tank here:

Q:  Where is Drop Tank from and how did you guys put the band together and get started?

A:  Drop Tank is originally from Marrickville, the industrial district in Sydney Australia. I would go to local live music venues to see who was playing and go and talk to the ones who had that special “X Factor” quality about them. You can usually tell if you will get along creatively with someone just by looking at them. We’ve had a few line-up changes but I find that to be a positive. Working with different people forces you to be a better musician.

Q:  I hear a lot of classic remnants when I listen to your music, there’s a high speed classic rock/thrash metal/punk vibe to your sound. Who are some of the band’s influences?

A:  70’s Rock, 80’s Metal and 90’s Punk. All the classics of course, ACDC, Motorhead, Pantera, Slayer, The Melvins, and I’m a huge (Mike) Patton fan.

Q:  There are some fantastic improvements made on your new EP “Vice”
from the band’s self titled EP. How did you guys record your music, by
yourselves or at a studio?

A:  The difference is that Vice was recorded at a Studio and our self-titled was recorded at home in our warehouse with an engineer. There is a certain vibe that is different from each EP. You can almost feel the vibe of the industrial warehouse we had in the first EP. It is something unique and is it very dear to us, and something you can’t capture in a studio, The studio EP however
sounds better, the difference is in the professional setting. Despite the first EP sounding more lo-fi it still got radio play which is pretty cool…

Q:  What’s your favorite type of show to play? Everyone has that one venue
they walk into and feel at home.

A:  Packed clubs are better than festivals because the sound is better. Perhaps the Annandale because its where I used to hang out anyway.

Q:  What is the most memorable show or opportunity you guys have had over the last two years?

A:  Big venues with lots of people is always fantastic, however one of the most memorable was at a private friends birthday party where we were asked to play the set again. Shows that have had an exchange of energy between us and the audience are always the best.

Q:  Are you writing new songs? Any new plans to record this year?

A:  I am in talks with a number of producers at the moment and am working on some new singles, hopefully to be released soon!

Q:  Your vocalist is a female, any problems with gritty biker guys hitting on you at shows?

A:  haha as long as they buy CDs no problem.

Q:  Can you give me a quick gear run through, like, what kind of guitars and amps are you guys using?

A:  Gibson SG Standard you can’t go wrong. You also can’t go wrong with a Marshall stack. Also going to be adding a Jackson to the family for speed.

Check out Zebidy Tank’s music at:

www.reverbnation.com/droptank

Playboy Magazine and Hugh Hefner hosted celebration in classic Hollywood fashion at the famed Playboy Mansion Tuesday night in Los Angeles, in honor of their annual “Sex & Music” issue, featuring Bruno Mars, the 10th man to grace the cover of Playboy.

Celebs including Britney Spears, Cameron Diaz and Jeremy Piven were out in force and danced and partied while Bruno and his Hooligans performed a mash-up of hits, covering everything from Michael Jackson’s “Dirty Diana,” to Police’s “Roxanne,” and even Ginuwine’s “My Pony.”

Bruno Mars is the 10th man ever to grace the cover of Playboy for their Sex and Music annual issue.

Notable Attendees Included: Britney Spears, Cameron Diaz, Chris Martin, Estelle, Raquel Pomplun – April Playmate, David Arquette, Mark Salling, Jeremy Piven, Johnny Knoxville, Brad Goreski, Laz Alonso, Naturi Naughton, Luke James, Josh Peck

PLAYBOY’S Annual “Sex & Music” issue starting Bruno Mars is on newsstands now.

Photo Credit: Cameron Duddy

Dame Julie Andrews was honored this past week with the 25th Annual Gypsy Award. An extraordinary list of previously-honored Professional Dancer Society tributees gathered to pay homage beginning in the morning at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.  Later that evening at UCLA’s Royce Hall, Grey’s Anatomy cast members joined in song for Grey’s Anatomy: The Songs Beneath The Show, and together raised record-breaking funds for the arts.

In addition to the stunning production numbers by dancers from the Joe Tremaine and Madilyn Clark Dance Studios, were  the remarkable video presentations by Lee Hale and industry elite such as Jane Withers, Jane Kean, Mary Ann Mobley, Barbara Van Orden, Margaret O’Brien, Dick Van Dyke, Carol Burnett, Carl Reiner, Florence Henderson, Rita Moreno, Bob Mackie, Marge Champion, Ann-Margaret, Joni Berry (Chairman) and PDS President, Mitzi Gaynor.

Dame Andrews’ eloquent speech regarding the Arts and their contributions to children, the public and the nation was well received by the patrons. This years sell-out raised a record-breaking amount of funds. The Professional Dancers Society, www.ProfessionalDancersSociety.org  is an affiliate of The Actors’ Fund For Everyone in Entertainment. Proceeds take care of dancers in need.

Grey's Anatomy cast in performance.

Later that evening, the Royce Hall theatre at UCLA, played host to over 1,300 fans of the ABC hit series Grey’s Anatomy, gathered as cast members joined in song for Grey’s Anatomy: The Songs Beneath The Show. Among those in attendance to support the cause were George Chakiris, Kate Linder, Ilene Graff, Ben Lazerone, Holland Taylor, Tony Hoover, Barbara Van Orden, Rip Taylor, and Sharon Lawrence, among others. It was a thunderously appreciative audience that came to their feet numerous times during the evening that starred Jessica Capshaw, Justin Chambers, Eric Dane, Sarah Drew, Kevin McKidd, Ingrid Michaelson, Sandra Oh, Jim Pickens, Jr., Sara Ramirez, Kim Raver and Chandra Wilson.

Grey's anatomy cast members - Justin Chambers, Chandra Wilson, James Pickens, Jr, Sara Ramirez and Kevin McKidd

The program produced by Michael Medico, Chris Van Dusen, Shonda Rhimes, Meg Thomas and written by Bill Harper, Mark Wilding and Jenna Bans featured the songs “Chasing Cars,” (performed by Sara Ramirez, Kevin McKidd, Chandra Wilson), “How We Operate” (McKidd), “There’s a Girl” (Sarah Drew), “Wait,” (Wilson, Drew), “Running on Sunshine” (James Pickens Jr., Justin Chambers, McKidd, Ramirez, Kim Raver, Jessica Capshaw, Drew, Wilson), “Young Folks” (Chambers and his three daughters, Eva, Mya and Kayla), “Everywhere I Go” (Wilson), “Keep Breathing” (performed by Ingrid Michaelson), “Looking at the World From a Bottom of a Well” (McKidd), “The Story,” (Ramirez) and “How to Save a Life” (Cast).

Grey's Anatomy cast Q and A

Each of the cast members shared their own plea to support the Actors Fund, with reference to the effects the Arts have on the entire community. Whether you are physically involved in the creative process or a fan of the results – whether you enjoy stage productions, going to a film, listening to music or staying at home and watching a favorite TV program, it is important … nay imperative … that you support the Arts in any way you can.

Joe Benincasa (AF Executive Dir), Kevin McKidd and Ilyanne Morden Kichaven.

The Actors Fund is a national human services organization that helps everyone-performers and those behind the scenes-who works in performing arts and entertainment, helping more than 12,800 people directly each year, and hundreds of thousands online. Serving professionals in film, theatre, television, music, opera, radio and dance, The Fund’s programs include social services and emergency assistance, health care and insurance, housing, and employment and training services.

With offices in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, The Actors Fund has-for 130 years-been a safety net for those in need, crisis or transition. For more information, please visit www.actorsfund.org.
PDS photo credit: Nathan Sternfel

Participants in the Hard Rock Hotels Present: “The Sound of Your Stay” Music Lounge included Hard Rock Hotels, belVita Breakfast Biscuits, Music Choice’s SWRV TV, Carrera Sunglasses, New Amsterdam Vodka and Gin, Revel Stoke Whisky, Asahi Beer, Red Bull, SOUL by Ludacris, & MOTEL… and at The Motorola Café were Motorola, belVita Breakfast Biscuits, UV Vodka, ZICO Pure Premium Coconut Water, VH1, Asahi Beer, & Disaronno.

The Bachelor Brad Womack

The sparks for Emily Maynard might have dimmed down, but The Bachelor Brad Womack still has family love for his own twin brother Chad. The two southern gentlemen hung out at SXSW and charmed all the ladies at the Hard Rock Hotels Present: “The Sound of Your Stay” Music Lounge and The Motorola Café, while sipping on New Amsterdam cocktails. An Onlooker said that “They definitely enjoyed the attention from the flocks of pretty women hovering around them.” Brad actually gave one a tattoo before heading to the Music Choice’s SWRV TV stage to rock out to 50 Cent songs.

The Bachelor Brad Womack

It was jammed packed when artist B.o.B. took the stage at the Hard Rock Hotels Present: “The Sound of Your Stay” Music Lounge, after delivering one of the hottest performances at SXSW, he ran off the stage and bumped into Pete Wentz for the first time ever. The two chatted about their schedules at the festival and the definite must-see shows. The new found friends picked up clothing from MOTEL, and Pete even had them send a box to his girlfriend…

Pete Wentz

Who knew Jenna Bush Hager loved to rock out? She attended The Hard Rock Hotels Present: “The Sound of Your Stay” Music Lounge with her husband Henry and friends on Saturday.  She declined to do any interviews because she said she was in Austin to just have fun. She drank New Amsterdam cocktails while watching The Givers on the Music Choice’s SWRV TV stage.

Jenna Bush Hager (rt)

Multi-talented Kat Graham rocked the Music Choice’s SWRV TV stage at The Hard Rock Hotels Present: “The Sound of Your Stay” Music Lounge. The place was at capacity during her set. The Vampire Dairies starlet was in no dark place this weekend, and chatted it up with friends in good spirits. She slipped on the latest Carrera Sunglasses before heading back to her hotel, and grabbed a crunchy belVita Breakfast Biscuit for some extra energy for her next performance.

Kat Graham

Photo Credit: Seth Browarnik/WorldRedEye.com

Photo Credit: David Miller (Image of Brad Womack at Motorola only)

This DVD/Blu-Ray features 90 minutes of live performance, behind the scenes footage, exclusive interviews and more. Filmed at LA’s Club Nokia on July 21, 2011 the full track concert and is the follow up to the early success of Owl City. Owl City exploded on to the scene with the success of his (Adam Young) major label debut Ocean Eyes. Released by Universal Republic Records in July 2009, the album topped the Billboard Rock, Alternative, and Dance/Electronic charts and was certified platinum in the U. S. It also spawned the quadruple platinum hit, “Fireflies,” which hit #1 in 24 countries including twice in the U. S.

Owl City then went on his first ever tour as the headliner and sold out shows across 4 continents scarcely taking a break until it was time to record a new album. In the winter of 2010 the electro-pop aficionado went back into the basement where it all began and recorded his sophomore release All Things Bright and Beautiful, which was released June 14th, 2011. The multi-talented musician Adam Young playing guitar, piano and drums finds himself shy and quiet 25-year-old decided to name his project Owl City because it was an ambiguous title where, “People digging through record shelves might have question marks about the name and spark interest in the name and the design and pick it up,” he says in the interview portion of the DVD.
This DVD gives fans a rare chance to see into the world of Owl City experiencing the excitement of his live show intimately with the mastermind behind the project: Adam Young. The disc starts off masterfully with the sonic drumbeats of three drummers on the opening song, “Real World,” as the string section provides background sounds to these whimsical lyrics and engaging melodies.

Owl City has a young and fresh sound as he humbly speaks to the crowd in Club Nokia. Young announces that it is a special evening with cameras shooting his first DVD. Many of the tracks on the disc feature topics of the sea, “Hello Seattle,” “Swimming in Miami,” “Umbrella Beach,” “Setting Sail,” “Meteor Shower,” “How I Became the Sea,” and songs about bugs such as their mega-hit “Fireflies,” sung in unison by his clamoring fans and “The Bird and the Worm.”

“Angels” incorporates the xylophone and keyboard as Young delves into “Umbrella Beach,” starting off as an instrumental track complete with synthesizer and three keyboards as Young tickles the ivories himself. “Plant Life,” is one stands out as Young tells the audience that they are, “Very sweet and charming as it is a room with many friends and family that showed up.” “Setting Sail,” has Young playing drums again praising the crowd. Young’s lyrics are very clever and honest as he dives into “Lonely Lullaby,” the Ann Marie track before breaking it wide open with the monster hit, “Fireflies,” a rocked out version as the audience goes ballistic singing all the words to the entire song. “Dreams Don’t Turn to Dust,” has syncopated rhythms as the fans joined in one more time to sing “Kamikaze.””Galaxies,” has a danceable beat and, “Alligator Sky,” features Shaun Christopher doing rap. Owl City is versatile performing rock, alternative, dance, electronic and Rap. “Los Angeles you are beautiful,” Young tells the audience as he sings, “Deer in the Headlights,” a song about really pretty girls and pepper spray. The crowd gleefully pogo danced to “The Yacht Club,” ending the set as the fans shouted, “One more song,” as Young obliged singing, “How I Became the Sea,” and “If My Heart was a House.”

The DVD/Blu-Ray features an interview with Adam Young showing off scenes in Hollywood and how the bands set is put together piece by piece. Young tells about being 16-years-old and picking up his uncle’s acoustic guitar and his inability to put it down. He was into skateboarding but found the guitar more fascinating the guitar became a tool that he couldn’t escape. Young tells of his early work experience in a frozen section of a market in the Midwest during high school. He says, “I started writing music out of boredom and it became a passion taking over my life.” He wondered how the sounds that he was creating would translate into something live and found that to be challenging.  He thought that it, “could be boring,” but centered himself around professional people and he felt confident he could pull it off. He couldn’t believe that his songs out of his imagination would translate into songs on Billboard and iTunes as he finds himself having a blessed life. Fans asked him various questions in the interview portion of the DVD like his favorite snack…Snickers and Reeses anything in a convenience store. Favorite place to visit…Hawaii and what else would he do if he didn’t play music…laying roofing tile.

Young writes his best form of music in his unkempt basement with no windows creating his electronic and melodically infectious brand of music with a simple and singular beauty. Young has gone from shy Midwesterner to an enthusiastic performer jotting around the globe touring his music to clamoring fans on four continents. “The gratification you get from flying across the world and playing to a room full of kids who know your lyrics, even if they don’t speak your language is totally stunning.” Young says, “It those moments when you stand back and say, “I’m just a normal guy. I can’t believe this is happening.” Owl City – Live from Los Angeles DVD/Blu-Ray documents one stop on this seventy six date All Things Bright and Beautiful World Tour.

With a fusion of styles, The Caldron EP is the best work yet from Dan Harper as the four songs take on a new energy level with energetic vocals, drums and a mass guitar attack. The first song Spirit, takes on a groove of freedom that features Stuart Fisher, Dennis Wint and Desta Firke. Mama Yey, featuring Sydney Salmon, has a Jamaican style groove that is best listened to in hot weather and a cold Pina Colada. The best song on the EP is the third song Coven, which features Merv Pepler, Zewditu Tadesse, and Los Mutartis lasts more than nine minutes and could be the best work Invisible System and Dan Harper has done. Massive drums, insane guitar work and energetic vocals make this song a must for any international traveler. The last song is Azmari Fuse featuring Mimi and Teremage. Once again, a cool drum beat, great vocals and an amazing rhythm makes this song a must for world music lovers.

The Cauldron EP is a mini-masterpiece available by download. This five star four song collection is worth its weight in gold!

NOW That’s What I Call Music! Vol. 41 features 16 current major chart hits from today’s hottest artists, including LMFAO, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Adele, Gym Class Heroes feat. Adam Levine, Coldplay, Toby Keith, and more, plus four free up-and-coming “NOW What’s Next” New Music Preview tracks.

The “NOW What’s Next” bonus track program featured on each numeric NOW release continues to preview hot new artists with tomorrow’s biggest hits. NOW 41 showcases up and coming tracks from Sammy Adams, Hunter Hayes, Susan Justice, and The Wanted.

The NOW That’s What I Call Music! series is a joint venture from EMI Music North America, Sony Music Entertainment, and Universal Music Group. NOW That’s What I Call Music! Vol. 41 will be distributed by EMI Music North America. NOW and NOW That’s What I Call Music! are registered trademarks of EMI (IP) Limited.

The NOW That’s What I Call Music! series debuted in the U.S. in 1998, after the brand had been a multi-platinum international success for 15 years. The series has generated sales exceeding 200 million albums worldwide, including more than 83 million copies in the U.S. Every album in the numeric U.S. series has reached Billboard’s Top 10, and 15 NOW releases have reached #1, second only to The Beatles in chart history.

www.nowthatsmusic.com

NOW That’s What I Call Music! Vol. 41 [CD; digital]
1. LMFAO Sexy And I Know It
2. Katy Perry The One That Got Away
3. Lady Gaga Marry The Night
4. Jessie J Domino
5. Gym Class Heroes featuring Adam Levine Stereo Hearts
6. T-Pain featuring Lily Allen 5 O’Clock
7. J. Cole Work Out
8. Pitbull featuring Chris Brown International Love
9. Breathe Carolina Blackout
10. Selena Gomez and the Scene Love You Like A Love Song
11. Gavin DeGraw Not Over You
12. Coldplay Paradise
13. Adele Someone Like You
14. Nickelback Lullaby
15. Luke Bryan I Don’t Want This Night To End
16. Toby Keith Red Solo Cup
BONUS TRACKS: “NOW What’s Next” New Music Preview
17. Sammy Adams Blow Up
18. Hunter Hayes Somebody’s Heartbreak
19. Susan Justice Eat Dirt
20. The Wanted Glad You Came

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The follow up to the KillSmith classic Sexual Savior CD from 2008, Neal Smith takes KillSmith Two to a new level of hard hitting rock music. KillSmith Two has ten hard hitting metal edge songs and two amazing ballads that shows the diversity of Neal Smith as well as his ensemble of veteran musicians.

With Neal Smith handling the song writing, singing, drumming and rhythm guitar you can hear the same air-tight feel in each song just as his 2008 masterpiece Sexual Savior. The CD also features veteran bass player, vocalist and producer Peter Catucci who compliments Smith’s drum playing and song writing.

The new CD not only offers excellent songs with a classic metal edge but also has amazing guitarists featuring guitarist Bryan Morrell, who was also on the Sexual Savior CD, Doug Wahlberg who sounds like he could come up with a great lead on any song in five minutes or less, and Kevin Franklin who played the best lead on the CD (‘Anything’) which no doubt had Jimi Hendrix roll over in his grave. These three veteran guitarists took the ball and ran with it and pushed Smith’s purposely morbid songs to an energetic mix of air-play made tunes.

Adding to the mix of veteran players are pianist/keyboardist Pete Hickey who can be seen in the new Squeeze Like a Python video showing his amazing talent, Joe Meo on Saxaphone, Jerry Vigorito on Harmonica, and a few Neal Smith hand selected Cheerleaders.

With most of the songs having the early Alice Cooper influence, Neal Smith pushed the band where this CD is road ready and should be played  loud and often. Hottest tracks are Squeeze Like a Python, Suicide Highway, and Strip Down. The best songs on the CD are Die for the Night and Anything.

With a new election year here, KillSmith Two mixes the blood of the political parties and spits out another five star CD featuring Neal Smith, the man who only comes out at night!

In honor of Valentine’s Day we have some select songs from Tracy Newman and the Reinforcements we thought were fitting whether you are happy and in love, feeling ambivalent,  or heartbroken.

VALENTINE’S DAY! LOVE ROCKS!

Have a Valentine’s date tonight? Then love is grand. Whether you will be on your way to a 5 star dining experience, or are cooking for your loved one, music can add a romantic touch to any activity. Or simply try surprising your honey and email your Valentine the song below. If you do, you will be sure to get an “awwwww!!”

To Express Your True Love -  Listen here: “I Just See You”

OR, if this is more where you are at…

Booo. I HATE FEBRUARY 14TH! CUPID IS DEAD!

Valentine’s day kinda stinks if you aren’t in a relationship. Either you feel like a loser (even though you most certainly are not!), or you pretend like you don’t care. Here are some songs to sing your woes to.

For The Ultimate Sad Song Wallowing – Listen Here: “Alone” (Published by Paul McCartney’s company:    http://blog.mplcommunications.com/search.asp)

Eh. Valentine’s Day is just OK When You Know It Is Almost Over – Listen here: “Fire Up the Weed”

OK, so you like her too now and want to see Tracy Newman and the Reinforcements live? You are in luck – watch her this Saturday, February 18th in Altadena. Joining Tracy Newman and the Reinforcements are Shelby Tieg and Tara described as a modern Simon and Garfunkel, if they had sisters). It is a win-win. Tickets are $15 and can be reserved at 626.798.6236. Show will sell out so be sure to call.

Haven’t had enough? OK! Here are some fun facts: In the early 70s, Tracy Newman joined an improvisation class taught by Gary Austin, which soon became The Groundlings. Tracy Newman is a founding member, and besides being in the show, she began teaching and directing  there. Her sister, Larainew Newman was the first Groundling to be discovered there by Lorne Michaels for Saturday Night Live.

Others include Phil Hartmann, Jon Lovitz, Julia Sweeney,  Will Ferrell, Will Forte, Kristen Wigg, and Chris Kattan. And other notable Groundling alumni – Paul “Pee Wee Herman” Reubens, Kathy Griffin and Lisa Kudrow.

Jane’s Addiction the band has been around for nearly 30 years and proves that they are frontrunners in alternative music.
In 2010, Jane’s Addiction began writing songs for the new album. By 2011, recording began on what would become “The Great Escape Artist’” on Capitol/EMI records to be supported with a worldwide tour 2012. The band and producer Rich Costey, (Muse, Franz Ferdinand, Interpol) added TV on the Radio’s Dave Sitek to the creative team.
The addition of Sitek writing music with Navarro and Perkins pointed the record in a decidedly alternative direction. Farrell’s melodies and lyrics completed the picture, the results of which created a more natural progression of Jane’s music for their inception as the creators of alternative rock as they now step into 2012 with a very modern-sounding record that somehow magically still harkens back to the original vibe of the group. Some fans may think the band has sold out but with this new paring with Sitek they really thrust themselves into the 21st century.

Taking a more musical approach, the members switched off on instruments and stretched out a bit, as Navarro played some bass, Sitek played some guitar, and Perkins experimented with several new percussion instruments. The group even brought in long time touring member and session player extraordinaire, Chris Chaney, to play additional bass.

To further the experimentation JA enlisted the help of Masters of Musicians of Joujouka, originally discovered by Brian Jones of the Rolling Stones in the late 60’s to create the lush but bizarre background to their first released track from the new set called, “End to the Lies.” The Master of Musicians of Joujouka recorded their parts in the wilds Morocco.
Acclaimed for their swirling sonic symphony and unique studio alchemy, Jane’s Addiction have sold over seven million records in the U.S. alone. They’ve also garnered Grammy nominations and spearheaded the movement of the modern American festival culture by launching and headlining Lollapalozza. Even during dormant periods, their classical songs pulsated through rock radio constantly and their influence resounded through countless acts.

Staring off this intriguing and conceptual album is the track, “Underground,” showing off the haunting guitar of Dave Navarro, driving rhythms, and inspiring lyrics classically putting forth their slum-dwelling past experiences. “End to Lies,” about a broken relationship, being down and out was leaked in April 2011 on Chilean radio when Jane’s Addiction headlined Lollapalooza Chili in Santiago at the first official Lollapalooza stages outside the U. S. A final mix of the initial song was released online a month later along with a striking video directed by Alex Bulkley from Robot Chicken fame.

The group’s first single, “Irresistible Force,” is a cosmic love story, ghost-like vibe, and spacey. “Curiosity Kills,” has an Edge-like inspired guitar groove and some soaring vocals courtesy of flamboyant Farrell. “I’ll Hit You Back,” a faulting relationship is one of the stronger songs on the disc with a majestic hooky chorus. The songs “Ultimate Reason,” with its message of love being the ultimate reason in life and the strong influence of STP glossing over in the background. “Splash A Little Water On It,” is a spacey movement, but overall an epic track. And rounding out the rest of the record is, “Words Right Out of My Mouth,” starting with a monologue from a therapist session where Farrell jumps right in but the song feels jumbled and chaotic probably better off closing the album with, “Broken People.”

Underlying the entire concept album is the idea of the underbelly of Los Angeles with its carnival of freaks, hustlers, and street corner visionaries of all kinds. Below the veneer of Hollywood’s lights lies a counter culture driven by escapism. Whether it’s via carnal, mental, physical, chemical, or aural pleasures the quirky court thrive on escape. Jane’s Addiction fourth album “The Great Escape Artist,” could only have been born within this realm. Spun through a kaleidoscope of tightly wound riffs, hypnotic harmonies, booming beats and an unmistakable howl, the record announces the beginning of the next chapter for the alternative rock torchbearers.

Jane’s Addiction is Perry Farrell (vocals), Dave Navarro (guitar), and Stephen Perkins (drums).

The band began working in 2010 on what would become “The Great Escape Artist.”

Coldplay’s fifth studio album “Mylo Xyloto” on Capitol/EMI Records is the bands strongest effort thus far cementing their place in the musical landscape. This band finds them stretching themselves using some musical elements from previous records and incorporating new techniques to appease previous fans of their music and is appealing to their skeptics. “Mylo Xyloto,” is the band’s third album to debut atop the Billboard 200 No. 1and the U.K. album chart continuing to come in from the globe. This album effectively uses strings, synthesizers, and organs sounds to drench over many of the 14 songs on this disc.

“Mylo Xyolto” the opening track on the record starts off with a beautiful xylophone intro transitioning into “Hurts Like Heaven.” This melodic track with layers of interesting and flowing music uses a crunchy guitar for effect and electro/pop sensibilities. “Paradise,” with its church organ and strong string section is incredibly catchy and again makes Coldplay the powerhouse band that they have morphed into. This monumental song with its’ intricate piano work has been placed on the “Hot Singles,” list by People Weekly. “Paradise” is a blend of a great dance/rock beat, effective synth chords and excellent innovative guitar playing. “Us Against the World,” is a rousing song and on the surface classic Coldplay.

“Every Teardrop is a Waterfall” is a colorful, dynamic jubilee, with reverbs, mounting guitar and thick chords surrounding it. The drum fills are reminiscent of U2 another rock ‘n roll powerhouse the band has been incessantly compared with. “Major Minus,” is also another song with a edgier guitar riff and another song that can also be compared to U2 probably because the band worked with the famed producer Brian Eno.

Although the bands use of effects are ever present there are times when the music is stripped down and even acoustic on songs like “U.F.O.,” and then once again on “Up in Flames.” The band looks at issues of relationship gone awry, broken hearts, war, death and glimpses of hope and prosperity. They are apt to get to the heart of the matter and continue to stay pertinent. One strong point on the disc was the song, “Princess of China,” featuring a strange but effective pairing of Rihanna and Chris Martin on this Asian vibe cut with a strong dance back beat. The record is rounded out with a rather somber song, “Up with the Birds.”

This band has been so successful because of their honest and heartfelt lyrics, their amazing live shows and their ability to connect with their fans and remain humble in their effort. Chris Martin has beautiful melodies and strong lyrics. “Mylo Xyloto,” is available in digital, CD, and vinyl

formats and as a special limited Pop-Up album. It was produced by Markus Dravs, Daniel Green and Rik Simpson, with additional composition by Brian Eno.

Coldplay continues to make quality music but consistently pushes themselves to stay relevant. Coldplay is comprised of Guy Berryman, Jonny Buckland, Will Champion, and Chris Martin. The band has sold more than 50 million records worldwide and won numerous awards including seven Grammy awards, six Brit Awards and four MTV Video music awards. The band’s last album “Viva La Vida,” became the No. 1 selling album worldwide of 2008, according to IFPI. Coldplay headlined numerous festivals in the months leading up to Mylo Xyolto’s release including stops in the U.S. at Lollapalooza in Chicago, Austin City Limits Festival, the iHeart Radio Music Festival in Las Vegas and Atlanta’s Music Midtown.

Click here to view the embedded video.

This New Year’s Eve, Connor Cruise, LA’s newest young DJ and 16 year-old son of Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, will be spinning live at The Big Bang celebration presented by The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Hollywood & Highland. Known as DJ C-Squared, Connor will be spinning from 9:30-10:30pm in The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and Extra VIP Suite where celebrity guests will enjoy cocktails made with The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s new CBTL single serve machine.

This New Year’s Eve spectacular, being coined as the “Times Square of the West Coast,” will host over 5,000 people including premiere Hollywood tastemakers and celebrities. The entire 5th level of the Hollywood & Highlands Complex will be transformed into a festival-style extravaganza featuring four different and unique areas of entertainment including a moonlit Renaissance Hotel Pool Deck, The Annex Special Event Center, The H&H VIP Room, and the World Famous Grand Ballroom, which also plays host to the official after party and Governor’s Ball to The Academy Awards.

The all-star DJ and support line up includes DJ MisterE, Kimberly Cole, Adam Nello, DJ Danielle Tavella, DJ Rico Rox, DJ Hustle, EQ Live, Bobby Solomon, Midi Mafia, DJ Prophecy, DJ Korina Bliss, and DJ Kido.

Cirque du Soleil is offering a combo ticket that gets guests category 2 seating at the 8pm IRIS show with direct access into Big Bang after the show for $150. The same combo is available with VIP access for $250 and these tickets are available online now.

General Admission is $75* and includes 5th Floor GA Access (Grand Ballroom, The Annex, and common areas), dinner buffet by WOLFGANG PUCK, and live performances by LUPE FIASCO, COBRA STARSHIP, Rock Mafia and Special Guests. * Prices are subject to change and may go up closer to the event.

VIP tickets are $150* and entail 5th Floor All Access (Governor’s Ballroom, Renaissance Pool Deck, The Annex, H&H VIP, and all common areas) with live performances by LUPE FIASCO, COBRA STASHIP, Rock Mafia and Special Guests, plus VIP Access to H&H VIP Room with OPEN BAR ALL NIGHT and dinner buffet by WOLFGANG PUCK. * Prices are subject to change and may go up closer to the event.

A limited number of Table Packages and Platinum VIP Pit Passes with Exclusive Pre-Show Artist Meet and Greet tickets are available by calling 323-461-9800.

For more information or to purchase tickets, go to  http://www.BigBangNYE.com.

Sponsors of Big Bang NYE 2012 include Bud Light Platinum, Coffee Bean, The Safe Cig, Turkish Airlines and Scooch TV.

God Bless Ozzy Osbourne DVD

The DVD explores his time with Black Sabbath, the English heavy metal band, and shows Ozzy in his formidable years as a young bloke in Aston, Birmingham England where his choices of occupation was either, factory worker, prison, or in the army. Born John Michael Osbourne, Ozzy expresses his lack of interest in any of those occupations in 1969 he sets out to be a musician along side of Bill Ward, Gezzer Butler, and Tony Iommi. Sabbath the pioneers of heavy metal produced the quadruple-platinum 1970 hit Paranoid and position themselves stars in the rock world.

This documentary interviews all of his band mates and Henry Rollins, Motley Crue’s Tommy Lee, and his childhood hero Sir Paul McCartney putting their personal spin on everything Ozzy. Ozzy was a huge fan of the Beatles and was determined to become a rockstar himself. The DVD also shows his spiral down into drugs and alcoholism that plagued most of his forty years in rock’n roll. Due to his lack of self-esteem Ozzy became the band class clown. Cocaine was ever present with the band doing blow all day and all night long. Because they were completely drugged out they became ripped off by many people in the business because they were unable to manage their own affairs.

This documentary shows Ozzy’s three sisters Jean, Iris and Gillian sending Ozzy back in time to his home as he travels back to Aston and his childhood home and offers a porthole into his dysfunctional first marriage and his first two children Luis and Jessica. His kids have many memories of him not being present in their lives and being a no good drunk. Bill Ward tells the account of Ozzy losing his father Jack and how devastating that experience was for him. The band got tired of Ozzy’s antics and fired him from the band.

That’s about the time Sharon stepped in, knowing that Ozzy had no confidence and feeling that it was the end of his dream. She knew he was a great talent but lacked self-esteem again and finally got his mojo back with the hiring of great guitarist Randy Rhodes. 1980 Blizzard of Oz’s with Rhodes blew up on the charts and then the follow up Diary of a Madman established Ozzy as a star again. Rhodes helped Ozzy reinvent himself until his untimely Rhodes death in a freak helicopter crash. Sharon and Ozzy married in 1982 and started a family with Jack, Kelly, and Aimee and he still was not a great father. He was constantly drunk and loaded and notoriously bit off the head of a bird at a meeting with executives at CBS records which began to make him a larger than life character. His affair with drugs persisted and it wasn’t until his son Jack got sober that he began to want to get sober himself. The kids saw him and the effect of the drugs made his speech terrible, his walk was bad and it was destroying his family. After many failed attempts to get clean, Jack was Ozzy’s inspiration and turning point and as of resultant he has been sober for 5 years.

This DVD also includes a Q&A segment with both Jack and Ozzy as Jack expresses his desire to show the world a kinder and gentile person in Ozzy Osbourne. Ozzy says that he wants to be remembered just to be remembered. He also shows his new affinity for art for his own pleasure. Jack’s says that there is a difference between Ozzy and John and he wanted to show this perspective to his adoring fans. Throughout God Bless Ozzy Osbourne audiences are given an inside look into the life of this rockstar from the good times to the bad.

For more on Ozzy God Bless DVD.

The iconic, Grammy-winning rock guitarist and songwriter Slash has perfected the science of the six-string for over 20 years as an integral component of Guns ‘N Roses and Velvet Revolver and hugely successful solo artist. On July 24th, he made a very special visit to Stoke on Trent, England, where he was raised, at the end of the 2010-2011 tour in support of his globally chart topping and critically acclaimed self-titled solo debut.Captured at Victoria Hall as part of an intensive world tour, this 21-song set is a celebration of a legendary career.

Joined by Myles Kennedy of Alter Bridge on vocals this CD is two hours of ass-kicking rock ‘n roll. Slash ripped through cuts culled from his GN’R days, Velvet Revolver, Slash’s Snakepit, and his solo album. The bands line-up included Todd Kerns on bass, drummer Brent Fitz and guitarist Bobby Schneck.

CD disc 1 starts off the lead track with the energetic “Been There Lately,” with the squeaky vocals of Kennedy leading right into “Nightrain,” the alcohol-laden cut highlighting Kennedy’s great falsetto along with Slash’s iconic guitar solo. “Ghost” figures up next where Kennedy engages the audience by saying, “I want to hear you scream!” This note bending guitar solo uses modulation to rip through this song which is off of Slash’s solo CD. Also, featured on this live CD is “Back From Cali” from the same solo release. The crowd claps and sings along with the band enthusiastically as Slash delves into “Rocket Queen,” with his recognizable intricate guitar riff and chug, chugging rhythm guitar work along with Kennedy’s searing vocals.
“Civil War” is up next as Slash expresses his pleasure performing live and documenting his experience on CD and DVD. He pays a special nod to Jimi Hendrix in his solo work on that song. The next series of songs in succession are from Slash’s solo release including “Nothing to Say,” the country twanged “Starlight,” and “Promise.”

CD disc 2 starts off with another song off the solo disc “Doctor Alibi,” originally recorded with Lemmy Kilmeister now featuring Todd Kerns on lead vocals again displaying Slash’s amazing acrobatics on his guitar. “Watch This” follows with his incredible instrumental music. Kennedy tells the audience, “Think you know this one. Whistle if you feel like it,” as he begins to sing “Patience.” Slash plays an extensive guitar solo displaying his incredible dexterity and the fastest fingers in the business. The solo continues on with the soundtrack to the Godfather with his unbelievable finger-work. The crowd cheers along to “Sweet Child O’Mine,” where the audience recognizes these few notes that comprise the chorus as Kennedy tells them that it has been a memorable evening as he introduces the band. They finish off the set with “By the Sword,” “Mr. Brownstone,” and the iconic “Paradise City.”

Slash is widely considered one of the greatest rock guitar players of all time. He has received countless accolades and awards including a 2007 induction into Hollywood’s Rock Walk (located in front of Guitar Center in Hollywood) alongside his idols Jimmy Page and Jimi Hendrix. An original member of iconic rock band Guns ‘N  Roses, the Grammy-winning Slash helped the band create signature sounds like the guitar riff of #1 hit, “Sweet Child O’Mine,” and “Welcome to the Jungle.”After leaving the band, Slash went on to critical acclaim in his personal project Slash’s Snakepit, and global success with supergroup Velvet Revolver. He has been widely sought after by the biggest musicians of all time, performing with everybody from Michael Jackson to Stevie Wonder to Ray Charles. Slash recently landed on top of the charts with his first true solo album, “Slash.” Slash was recently honored by official selection for 2011 to receive a star on Hollywood’s iconic Walk of Fame. In February 2011 he performed at the Super Bowl XLV half time show. Slash is currently in the studio working on his second solo album due for release in 2012.

First off is Dave Koz’s second Christmas release titled Ultimate Christmas. The CD has been released on CD and digitally features 18 perennial holiday classics performed by four time Grammy award nominee. This saxophone extraordinaire and all around nice guy has included on the disc The Christmas Song, Winter Wonderland, Deck the Halls, O Tannenbaum (O Christmas Tree) Hark! The Herald Angles Sing, White Christmas featuring Kelly Sweet. Please Come Home for Christmas featuring Kimberly Locke (2003 American Idol finalist) and several other popular songs of the season.

Koz will kick off the holiday season with the Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2011 on November 25th (the day after Thanksgiving) at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center in Atlanta, GA. Trumpeter/composer/producer Rick Braun, South African singer/guitarist Jonathan Butler and Dutch saxophone star Candy Dulfer will join Koz for the 14th anniversary tour. The four will perform hits from their respective catalogues and jam on new arrangements of holiday favorites. For all things Dave Koz go to www.davekoz.com

A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra, was originally released in 1957 and is a vital holiday classic featuring 14 cherished Yuletide recordings sung by Ol’ Blue Eyes including The Christmas Song, Silent Night, Jingle Bells, I’ll be Home for Christmas, O Little Town of Bethlehem, The First Noel, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and more. The album’s White Christmas and alternate version of The Christmas Waltz were arranged and conducted by Nelson Riddle. Presented with all the warmth, good cheer and best wishes at his command, here are the songs Christmas as only Frank Sinatra sings them. (from the album’s original sleeve).

The Beach Boys Christmas Album produced by Brian Wilson was originally released in 1964. Among the classic album’s 12 festive tracks are five Beach Boys originals – Little Saint Nick, The Man with all the Toys, Santa’s Beard, Merry Christmas Baby and Christmas Day – as well as holiday standards infused with The Beach Boy signature California pop style, including Frosty The Snowman, White Christmas, and more. A 40-piece orchestra accompanies The Beach Boys’ world-famous harmonies on this evergreen album.

The Chipmunk’s The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late) is a modern holiday classic, known and loved in households worldwide. It, along with 15 other Chipmunks carol standouts, including Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane), Jingle Bells, It’s Beginning to look a lot like Christmas, Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, Frosty the Snowman, Deck the Halls, White Christmas and more are featured on Christmas With The Chipmunks an essential collection for every holiday season.

The world’s best-selling, multi-artist album series, NOW That’s What I Call Music!, will release NOW That’s What I Call Christmas! Vol. 4.

NOW That’s What I Call Christmas! Vol. 4 features 36 festive holiday tracks, among them 18 standards and originals from many of music’s top stars, including Rihanna, Sheryl Crow, Colbie Caillat, Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, Carrie Underwood, Faith Hill, Martina McBride, Toby Keith, Darius Rucker, Brian McKnight (featuring Vince Gill), Kelly Rowland, Sean Kingston, Lady Gaga featuring Space Cowboy, Britney Spears, Michael Bublé, Diana Krall, and Maroon 5, as well as 18 evergreen favorites by legendary artists, including Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby, Elvis Presley, Johnny Mathis, Andy Williams, Dean Martin, Burl Ives, Bobby Helms, The Temptations, The Beach Boys, Alvin And The Chipmunks, Bing Crosby and David Bowie, James Taylor, Sting, Celtic Woman, Norah Jones, Band Aid, and Mannheim Steamroller.

The NOW series boasts an amazing array of musical talent and puts these great artists all in one place playing some of the most beloved Christmas songs in one collection. Where else can you get Lady GaGa and Elvis Presley on one CD?? This year NOW That’s What I Call Christmas! Vol. 4 features a ‘Special Caroling Edition’ which include liner copy with the song lyrics for each track on the album. This disc is a must have for the holiday season with a little taste of pop and all the classic standards by legendary musicians on one album with two discs.

The NOW That’s What I Call Music! Series debuted in the U.S. in 1998 after the brand had been a multi-platinum international success for 15 years. The series has generated sales exceeding 200 million albums worldwide, including more than 77 million copies in the U.S. For more on the NOW music series please go to:  www.nowthatsmusic.com

Written by Susie Salva
Usher’s “OMG Tour Live from London” on Eagle Rock Entertainment on DVD and Blu-Ray shows off Usher as one of the biggest superstars in the world. With album sales in the multi-millions, this supremely talented singer/songwriter/dancer/actor/entrepreneur promises and delivers an incredible live experience. Touring in support of his landmark seventh album, “Raymond V. Raymond,” which topped the Billboard’s R&B chart for seven straight weeks, Usher pulls out all of the stops in this fantastic concert.