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.

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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.

Daft Punk and Leiji Matsumoto have released the “Interstella 5555 the 5story of the 5ecret 5tar 5ystem” DVD on Virgin/EMI Music. This disc is a silent animated film minus the French musicians Daft Punk soundtrack featuring music utilizing disco, soul, funk and electronica. This DVD is an animated House musical. The story revolves around four musicians from another galaxy who are kidnapped by an evil manager that wants them bow down to his demands. They ultimately become the biggest rock band on Earth. The animation illustrates the blue feeling of depression by drawing them in blue as they are feeling oppressed by this evil villain. The movie culminates in the end when a young boy who has dreamt the entire storyline wakes up surrounded by toy dolls emulating the featured rock stars of the movie.

The story is disjointed and the animation is fair…the and only saving grace is the Daft Punk’s soundtrack. The DVD features interactive play and that makes sense being that this disc is more like a video game then a movie. The DVD is a through back to 1987 animation but the colors are not that brilliant mostly muted. The disc also boasts a biography of Daft Punk and Leiji Matsumoto.

Daft Punk are known as much for their music and technical innovation as their groundbreaking and elaborate visual universe, which centers around their irrepressible and mysterious Robot personas. In 2006, their directorial art house film debut, “Daft Punk’s Electroma,” premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and in 2007 they toured internationally with a jaw-dropping live show that was an awe-inspiring combination of their musical and visual prowess. Their collaboration with Kanye West on his #1 hit single “Stronger” was hailed as “The Song of the Year” by SPIN Magazine (January 2008 issue), which also saw Daft sharing the cover with Kanye, having been awarded “Tour of the Year” by the magazine. Daft Punk performed with West on the Grammy Awards in 2008, marking the duo’s first and only television appearance anywhere in the world. “TRON: Legacy” will mark Daft Punk’s first film score.

From Daft Punk’s first single release in 1993, Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter were hailed as a new breed of electronic music innovators. Following their seminal debut in 1997 (Homework), the band went on to release two more studio albums (Discovery-2001, Human After All-2005) and two live albums (Alive 1997, Alive 2007), winning them both critical and popular acclaim throughout the world.

The releases, under the banner Why Pink Floyd? are designed to appeal to a wide cross section of dedicated fans, with music to excite first time listeners, while super-deluxe box sets will cater to dedicated fans, allowing them to immerse themselves in multi-disc sets, containing alternate takes, unreleased tracks, restored live concert screen films and a live recording of the legendary “The Dark Side of the Moon” performance at Wembley in 1974.

The nice thing about the “Discovery” box set is having all Floyd’s music in one location. These re-mastered gems are sonically pleasing and visually appealing. Inside the box you will find complete studio recordings collection of re-mastered & repackaged discs including an exclusive 60 page booklet featuring rare sketches and works in progress. The booklet also includes explanations of each piece of artwork the band used over the decades. There are 14 CD’s in the box starting off with “The Piper as the Gates of Dawn,” and finishes off with “Division Bell.” One downfall to the box set would have to be the lack of plastic jewel cases instead using cardboard covers for the CD’s.

A series of different listening experiences have been specially created for this release in addition to re-mastered CD’s called “Discovery,” and the “Immersion” CD/DVD/Blu-ray memorabilia box sets will be a series of “Experience” editions – coupling one classic album with a further disc of related content from that album to offer a deeper listening experience.

“This is a unique collaboration between EMI and one of the most creative and influential bands in history. We have worked together for more than a year on this program, which incorporates all the elements that have made Pink Floyd one of the most inspiring forces in modern music. Why Pink Floyd? because their music is without equal and these exciting new releases will allow music fans to rediscover their legacy and demonstrate that an appreciation for artistic quality never goes out of fashion,” says Roger Faxon, CEO of EMI Group.

The bands longtime art director Strom Thorgerson has overseen the visual design, including new booklets for all the CD’s, new artwork for the box sets and menus for the DVD content. Respected photographer Jill Furmanovsky has edited books of original unseen photographs. Pink Floyd collaborators James Guthrie (in the US) and Andy Jackson (in the UK) have been in charge of digital re-mastering to the highest audio and audiovisual standards.

Other initiative will include a digital marketing plan utilizing user-generated content to allow fans to make their own creative contributions to the bands’ music, plus iPhone Apps which will give a unique insight into Pink Floyd’s recorded legacy.

Pink Floyd’s official website, PinkFloyd.com will be given a substantial relaunch and their facebook page now has over 11 million followers. In 1967 the band comprised Syd Barrett, Roger Waters, Nick Mason, and Richard Wright. Barrett left in 1968, to be replaced by David Gilmour. Syd Barrett died in 2006; Richard Wright died in 2008. Pink Floyd have sold over 200 million records worldwide to date.
www.pinkfloyd.com

The first song on the DVD is “Traveling Man” starting off this performance in the making 17 years ago at Montreux 1994 and displays their rockin’ blues bent easily slipping into a slow jam on “Muddy Water Blues” where Rodgers is interacting with the audience. Neil Schon performs an amazing guitar solo on the song “Fire and Water,” with the drumming finesse of Jason Bonham. The incomparable Brian May joins in on “Good Morning Little School Girl.” Rodgers sings his standards during his time with Free and Bad Company…including an upbeat, “Feel Like Making Love,” with the help of Steve Lukather, “Can’t Get Enough,” and ‘All Right Now,” with the crowd joining in.

While many of the songs performed were songs that Rodgers penned and built a sterling reputation on (including “All Right Now,” “Can’t Get Enough,” and “Feel Like Making Love”) the bulk of the songs performed that evening were nothing but the blues they put their own spin on the Robert Johnson classic from 1936 “Crossroads” burst with energy. The evening capped off with an incredible line up of blues artists including Eddie Kirkland, Sherman Robertson, Luther Allison, Robert Lucas, and Kenny Neal.

Paul Rodgers vocals have been associated with classic music and one of the true great vocal sounds which has been easily identifiable throughout his 40 years in the business. His love for the blues and his ability to pair together some of the best musicians in the business is showcased here on this DVD and CD. The clarity of the visuals on the DVD is fantastic and the music is uplifting.  The crowd at Montreux is very engaging interacting with the band and obviously enjoying these talented performers. If you enjoy Rodgers in all his glory and his supergroup bandmates this DVD will suit your fancy.

Joss Stone’s top singles and album standouts spanning her S-Curve and Virgin Records catalog have been gathered for the first time for a new collection titled, “The Best of Joss Stone: 2003-2009” and the CD has been released by Virgin/EMI records on 13-track and digital collection.

At the age of 16, Grammy and Brit Award-winning singer, Joss Stone rocketed to worldwide fame and acclaim with the release of her debut album, “The Soul Sessions.” Songs like “Fell in Love With A Boy,” (Stone’s re-working of the White Stripes’ “Fell In Love With A Girl”) features Stone’s use of slinky, funky guitar grooves underneath her signature bluesy, soulful raspy vocals. The disc also features her version of Willie Garner’s “Super Duper Love (Are You Digging Me) This song has an R&B vibe with strong backing vocals an ode to an undying love. Stone’s central theme throughout these 2003-2009 songs is her ability to be strong and independent but sensitive enough to still be able to believe in love.

Stone’s second album, 2004’s “Mind Body & Soul,” showcased her songwriting talents as well as her soulful singing style with the singles “You Had Me,” “Right To Be Wrong,””Don’t Cha Wanna Ride,” and “Spoiled” among the Platinum album’s standout tracks. These songs focus on her vulnerability but also her strength to be able to stand on her own.

The Platinum-certified “Introducing…Joss Stone,” released in 2007, reached #2 on the Billboard Top 200 chart and featured “Tell Me ‘Bout It,” “Baby, Baby, Baby” tackling the question of whether her love would be there for her, “Tell Me What We’re Gonna Do Now” featuring Common with his version of rap twisted into her soulful delivered sound.

This CD also featured “Bruised But Not Broken,” a lovely ballad again praising her ability to be able to stand on her own. Released in 2009, Stone’s fourth album, “Colour Me Free,” hit #10 on the Billboard Top 200 and featured the singles “Free Me” and “Stalemate” (featuring Jamie Hartman). The new collection also includes Stone’s version of Nat King Cole’s “L-O-V-E” heard on the ad for Chanel’s Coco Mademoiselle fragrance.

Stone was obsessed with soul music as a child and has been able to hone her trademark gravely lustrous vocals today. She began pursuing a singing career at thirteen, when she auditioned for UK talent show Star for a Night. This eventually led to a record deal and the release of Stone’s star-making debut album “The Soul Sessions,” in 2003.

Her second record, 2004’s “Mind Body & Soul,” capitalized on “The Soul Sessions” commercial momentum critical success and earned Stone three Grammy nominations, including one for Best New Artist. It wasn’t until her third album 2007’s “Introducing… Joss Stone,” that Stone showcased her songwriting chops; it marked the highest debut ever for a female British solo artist on the Billboard charts. It has been slow for her to build an audience in America, but “Introducing Joss Stone,” has made the transition more smoothly.

In twenty-four years she’s participated more moments of absolute musical wonder than most people can hope for in an entire lifetime. Stone has been known for her rebel attitude whether she is dancing barefoot onstage or dying her hair various colors of speaking out on issues she is passionate about, part of what her fans love about her is that she’s a free-spirit, following her own instincts times.

Stone’s blend of emotive soulfulness and unparalleled vocals with raw, bareness of traditional blues definitely makes her stand out of the crowd. This Fall will also see the eagerly-awaited release from Super Heavy, the super group featuring Joss as well as other legendary musicians as Mick Jagger, Damian Marley, A.R. Rahman, and Dave Stewart. The diverse group, who have been quietly writing together, are looking forward to finally sharing their unique collaboration with fans worldwide.

Romi Dames (Hanna Montana) and Kate Linder (The Young and The Restless) with Red Hot Mama Barbara Van Orden at the Catalina Jazz Club

Barbara Van Orden, a singer and entertainer whose career has spanned decades began as a leading print model gracing the cover of many magazines and eventually segueing into a television commercial career. Eventually Van Orden made a career for herself in the entertainment industry as a singer, comedienne and actress. She became the opening act for many of the industry greats, such as Milton Berle, Don Rickles and Red Buttons, to name a few. Van Orden also performed at all of the Playboy Clubs, working with talents such as Buddy Hackett, Morey Amsterdam and Soupy Sales.

A move to the West Coast was inevitable and Van Orden immediately assumed a recurring role in televisions Welcome Back Kotter while adding many more TV films and series episodes to her resume in a short time. In between the television roles, Van Orden began opening for many Vegas headliners. One show in particular would lead to her ultimate breakout. While opening for Shecky Green, Frank Sinatra took a liking to Van Orden and invited her to open for him at the Persian Room at the Plaza Hotel in New York.

In 1982, Van Orden was unexpectedly hit by a car in Beverly Hills leaving her with a number of serious injuries, resulting in 18 surgeries and years of therapy to learn how to walk again. Not one to give up on her dream, Van Orden recently wrote and produced Red Hot Mama Returns to bring her talent once more to the stage.

Catalina Jazz Club Bar & Grill is located at 6725 West Sunset Blvd in Hollywood. For more information on Barbara Van Orden, please visit her website at www.barbaravanorden.com

Right at the get-go the band makes no qualms that with the new CD they are working with more refined songs and letting their emotions take over perhaps less pop-driven music and at times a more somber mood.

“The whole way we work has changed,” Luke explains. “We’re not just a band making noise in a room anymore. We’ve moved on a lot and I’m really proud of what we’ve done. There are elements of all the music we have ever loved in this new record, but it still has our root. “Junk of the Heart” is very different and hopefully something that no one’s ever heard before. It’s upbeat – it’s an album to play in the sun.”

Gone from this disc is the spontaneously upbeat and youthful energy of the band’s previous CD’s that has now has been replaced with more introspection and brooding. The band captures the emotion and sounds of the Police, the Stones, and even the Cure. This CD marks a rebirth for the Kooks with material written and recorded in London and Los Angeles over the last nine months. It appears that they made a conscious effort to create songs with more emotion and less fervent energy.

This CD was written to be listened to as if it were a complete album from top to bottom. So the album opens up with a dramatic backbeat, builds across acoustic guitar and warm washes of synth before collapsing into the sort of chorus making something so contagious that you will be singing it for days on end.

The album jumps starts with the title and lead track, “Junk of the Heart (Happy)” with a driving drumbeat and begs forth that he wants to make his partner to be happy, but it could be suggested that he (Luke Prichard) wants to make his listening audience happy too. Prichard’s voice is unique and definitive making their music easily identifiable. “Taking Pictures of You,” is very Cure-like with tongue and cheek lyrics with his need to tell a secret. This track is probably the most radio ready. “Runaway,” uses an array of percussion while “Is it Me,” sounds like early Police music and again discusses the question of friendship or a serious relationship. Most of the music is like a personal diary begging for the relationship to work out or to deciding to end it.

This is definitely more personal record then the previous two albums. “Time Above the Earth,” displays a lovely string quartet section that carries the tune along a welcome transition instead of a confusing new direction. Probably the strongest two tracks would have to be “Killing Me,” and “Eskimo Kiss,” sounding more like their previous songs from their previous CD’s. “Junk of the Heart,” is quite a turnaround for a band once famous for their unstinting desire and devotion to older sounds and styles.

“This is certainly part of the conceptual element to this,” Luke says. “I’m inspired by Yeats and love poetry and this album looks at that search – search for purity and honesty. It is a warm record that was crucial to us. It had to be comforting and tender, but with bite and vibe too.”

These pop musicians know exactly what they are doing by the manipulation of their new sound and their desire to make you happy and joyous without losing their desired intention. The first two Kooks albums, “Inside In/Inside Out” and “Konk,” were well received by the press and the public, and “Junk of the Heart,” will probably to continue the trend. A few of the songs have the potential to become big hits and finally put these guys on the map.

“Music should be experimental, not constricted. We’re not turning our back on what we have done, but we’re different people now. So everything is evolving, the live show will be evolving –it will have too, even the old songs will be changed a bit. I don’t know what will happen next, but I know I’m looking ahead. This record has opened the floodgates for us,” says Prichard.

www.thekooks.com

Barbara Van Orden, a singer and entertainer who’s career has spanned decades, and has opened for Sinatra and headlined at each of the Playboy Club, returns to the stage at the Catalina Jazz Club Bar and Grill on Sunday, Oct. 23rd, after a devastating accident that resulted in 18 surgeries. She has been well received by audiences and critics alike. Her mentor was the legend Frank Sinatra, and comedy greats such as Milton Berle, Buddy Hackett, Don Rickles and Shecky Greene – to name a few. She has appeared in many television appearances and films.

Red Hot Mama Returns will be presented with musical direction by Ron Snyder.

Oct. 23, 2011

Catalina Jazz Club Bar and Grill
6725 W. Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 466-2210

Legends of die-hard fans of multi-platinum rock `n roll band The Rolling Stones will be transported back to the magical summer of 1978 in “The Rolling Stones: Some Girls Live In Texas”. This rare, never-before-seen concert footage will be presented as a one-night, in-theater concert event on Tuesday, October 18 at 7:30 p.m. (local time), at multiple locations (here at LA Live).

Unveiled for the first time in more than 30 years,  this phenomenal piece of music history was captured live in Fort Worth, Texas on July 18, 1978 and features an exclusive 20-minute interview with Mick Jagger, filmed in August 2011 as he reflects on the fabled 1978 U.S. tour.

“Fort Worth was an amazing night in a blistering hot July,” said Jagger. “Watching it now, the band was really intense and focused, but we were also having a blast with the fans who were really getting into the show and the new tracks from Some Girls. I think our fans will love the chance to see this concert movie for the first time on the big screen.”

Digitally re-mastered to HD with Cinema Surround Sound, this legendary footage includes a mixture of classic Stones hits such as “Brown Sugar,” “Honky Tonk Women,” “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” and “Tumbling Dice,” paired with blues numbers and Chuck Berry covers, as well as songs from the then newly released Some Girls LP including fan favorites “Beast of Burden” and “Miss You.”

This tour has never been released via broadcast, cable television or DVD before. The special event will also include an exclusive 20-minute interview with Mick Jagger filmed in August 2011 where he reflects on the fabled 1978 U.S. tour, which is widely believed among fans to be one of the band’s greatest tours and strongest musically.

This Fathom Event will be showing at the following theaters in your area:

Los Angeles and Orange County:

Orange Stadium Promenade 25
1701 W Katella Ave
Orange, CA   92867

Huntington Beach 20
7777 Edinger Ave
Huntington Beach, CA   92647

Irvine Spectrum 20 with IMAX
65 Fortune Dr
Irvine, CA   92618

Aliso Viejo 20 with IMAX
26701 Aliso Creek Rd
Aliso Viejo, CA   92656

Valencia Stadium 12 with IMAX
24435 Town Center Dr
Valencia, CA   91355

Long Beach 26 with IMAX
7501 Carson Blvd
Long Beach, CA   90808

Temecula 15 with IMAX
40750 Winchester Rd
Temecula, CA   92591

Alhambra Renaissance 14 with IMAX
E Main St
Alhambra CA   91801

LA Live
1000 W Olympic Blvd
Los Angeles, CA   90015

The Rolling Stones: Some Girls Live From Texas will be broadcast to more than 300 theaters nationwide through NCM’s exclusive Digital Broadcast Network. Fathom and Eagle Rock also teamed up for the highly successful cinema presentation of Ladies & Gentlemen… The Rolling Stones in September 2010, which featured classic Stones performances from their 1972 tour.

Formed in London in April 1962, The Rolling Stones consists of members Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts and Ronnie Wood. Having released 22 studio albums in the United Kingdom (24 in the United States), nine live albums (10 in the U.S.) and numerous compilations, their worldwide sales are estimated at more than 200 million albums. Their most recent album of entirely new material, A Bigger Bang, was released in 2005. In 1989, the Rolling Stones were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and in 2004, ranked No. 4 in Rolling Stone magazine’s 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. In 2008, Billboard magazine ranked the Rolling Stones at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 Top All-Time Artists, and as the second most successful group in the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

“It simply doesn’t get any bigger than bringing The Rolling Stones to music fans across the country,” said Dan Diamond, senior vice president of NCM Fathom. “Well-preserved for more than 33 years, audiences will be spellbound by this incredibly rare concert footage as it flawlessly captures the band during one of its most musically riveting periods.”

About National CineMedia (NCM)
NCM operates NCM Media Networks, a leading integrated media company reaching U.S. consumers in movie theaters, online and through mobile technology.  The NCM Cinema Network and NCM Fathom present cinema advertising and events across the nation’s largest digital in-theater network, comprised of theaters owned by AMC Entertainment Inc., Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK), Regal Entertainment Group (NYSE: RGC) and other leading regional theater circuits. NCM’s theater advertising network covers 175 Designated Market Areas® (49 of the top 50) and includes over 18,100 screens (16,800 digital). During 2010, over 690 million patrons attended movies shown in theaters in which NCM currently has exclusive, cinema advertising agreements in place.  The NCM Fathom Events broadcast network is comprised of nearly 700 locations in 165 Designated Market Areas® (all of the top 50). The NCM Interactive Network offers 360-degree integrated marketing opportunities in combination with cinema, encompassing 42 entertainment-related websites, online widgets and mobile applications.  National CineMedia, Inc. (NASDAQ: NCMI) owns a 48.7% interest in and is the managing member of National CineMedia LLC. For more information, visit www.nationalcinemedia.com or www.ncm.com.

About More2Screen
More2Screen is a leading London-based alternative content distributor with more than 5 years of experience acquiring and distributing world-class opera, ballet, music concerts, theatre and special event films to cinemas across the globe – including 19 live broadcasts, over 100 different recorded productions and 3D/live content. Recent projects include a series of ‘world-firsts’: Giselle in 3D, the world’s first 3D ballet; the first Japanese live cinema relay to territories outsideJapan with L’Arc~En~Ciel in May 2011; and the world’s first LIVE 3D opera, ENO’s Lucrezia Borgia in February 2011. For more information visit www.more2screen.com.

About Eagle Rock
Eagle Rock Entertainment is an international media production and distribution company operating across audiovisual entertainment programming. Eagle Rock Entertainment works directly alongside talent to produce the highest quality programming output covering film, general entertainment and musical performance. Eagle Rock Entertainment has offices based in London, New York, Germany, France & Toronto. www.eagle-rock.com

“The whole album is about getting people up off their feet,” says frontman/co-writer Alex Johnson. “It’s much more dedicated to dance than our EP, but still has the same These Kids flavor. It has our familiar melodies and sing-a-long lyrics for everyone. We’re big on alliteration and repetition and those things make our songs stand out.”

“We always said that we wanted our music to have great energy – nothing negative.  We want everyone in the clubs to get on their feet and dance when they hear our songs played,” says bassist/co-writer Alan Poettcker.
The 11-song album — produced by Matt Squire (3OH!3, Panic At The Disco, Katy Perry), Gggarth Richardson (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Hedley) and Jeff Rockwell (Forever The Sickest Kids) — contains the energetic first single, “Jumpstart;” the electro-heavy “Don’t Sweat It;” anthemic “Lifetime”; and whirling electro cover of Whitney Houston’s ‘80s hit, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.”  Standouts from the band’s EPs, “Skeletons,” “Break It Up,” “Oceans” and “We All Fall Down,” are also included.

The six-piece band, comprised of Alex, Alan, guitarists Joshua “Gypsy” McDaniel and Joe Porter, synthesist/programmer Matt Vink and drummer Josh Mitchinson, live in a musical era where pop and dance dominate the charts and can’t help but be influenced by it. “Almost everyone enjoys dance music of some kind and everyone can get up and dance,” believes Alex.

This six-piece outfit kicks off this 11 track dance CD with “Skeletons,” which strips away elements where one needs to take the relationship slow, “This Party Never Stops,” is an ode to partying late into the night and the title track, “Jumpstart,” is the seminal dance tune all of these tracks use auto-tune to give the electro-beat sounds as a way to express themselves. “Lifetime,” slows it down with the obligatory ballad about a faltering relationship. “We All Fall Down,” caps off this delightful CD expressing the excitement of pulling an all-nighters.

Alex and Alan compliment each other as songwriters, Alan coming up with the more standard pop/rock songs, such as “Good Friends (With Bad Benefits),” and Alex with “crazier” ideas, such as “Let’s Ride,” says Alan. “Alex doesn’t play any instruments so he thinks about music a different way than I do,” he explains.  “If I write a song, I come up with an instrument part and then put a vocal on it, whereas for ‘Let’s Ride,’ Alex sang the whole first half to me and it was up to me to fill in the blanks.”

“Jumpstart” is the only song on the album (besides “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”) they didn’t write. It was a collaboration between Matt, Damon Sharpe and Pebe Sebert (Ke$ha’s mother).  “When we heard the song the first time, we knew the vocal melody and the chorus was unbelievably catchy and knew exactly what we would add to it,” says Alan. “Matt handed us a microphone and we just sang all these extra parts and things that our band would do for that song and made a rough recording of it.”

“Lifetime” – the only co-write on the album with the band — began with a chorus and vocal hook from Alex and Alan, and was completed with Matt. “The album was basically done and getting mastered and then we finished ‘Lifetime,’” says Alan.  “We felt that we needed a song on the record that was gonna be a little slower and less party. Everything else on the record is so upbeat and fast and heavy and loud and we just wanted something that was a bit more laidback.”

Still, there is nothing laidback about These Kids Wear Crowns. The music is nothing short of pumping. It is big and buoyant, can lift people’s spirits and bodies out of their seats. “Jumpstart” is not only the launch of a new dance band, but the harnessing of youthful spirit. For all things These Kids Wear Crows go to www.TheseKidsWearCrowns.com.

These Kids Wear Crowns are: Alex Johnson, Joshua McDaniel, Alan Poettcker, Joe Porter, Joshua Mitchinson and Matt Vink.

Written by Susie Salva

The Town Hall is the perfect location for the Counting Crows to perform the entire album in a live setting. Adam Duritz’s signature scratchy, sultry vocals are showcased on these releases on the three formats. Starting off with their signature song Round Here and the much improvised track of Raining In Baltimore you will find this on the high quality video presentation. Wearing the first of three of his vintage T-shirt’s sporting KISS across his chest he sputters the lyrics and is comfortable on stage. Omaha is greeted by thunderous applause as the audience sang along on this track with the accordion played along in the background.

Performing probably their biggest hit Mr. Jones Duritz lets the audience in by admitting that the band was not that good at being a band where at one point they killed one another. The theatrical performance of Anna Begins found Duritz in a comfortable stride. The band performed a stirring rendition of Rain King. It was when Duritz let the crowd in to the story behind Sullivan Street when he was dating a girl whose Mom was a strong Catholic and wouldn’t let her daughter spend the night with him. So he knew it was over soon and they parted ways. The band rounded off the set by singing Ghost Train and A Murder of One.

The DVD/Blu-Ray included an interview with Adam Duritz and Charles Gillingham. Duritz explained that they were an indie band in the ‘90’s and the band was on the road with no songs at the beginning at all. Round Here was performed on Saturday Night Live and the song summed up the Counting Crows. That’s when they know that they were onto something.”That song was what makes us different,” explains Duritz. “We put out there a singer (Adam Duritz) and left him totally naked,” says Gillingham. Duritz talks in this interview about how the band couldn’t get the songs to sound great at first. “We had to learn to play together and all be in the same room to play together.”

Both expressed that the band has to be democratic and be collaborative. Durtiz also explained that the songs came together when he wrote the lyrics and the band had to play them all together. He also dispels the idea that his lyrics are not poetry and that a decision has to be made and it turns out that he has to be the decision maker. He says he and the band never tire of singing the songs that made them what they are.

Another thing is that the band is known for their ability to improvise on the music that they perform. “When the improvising is good we know where he is going and we follow that idea to a conclusion,” says Gillingham.  “There is this kind of stream of consciousness especially on the song Round Here. Duritz also explained the bands decision to perform the August and Everything After album. The band was becoming more comfortable doing that album top to bottom  and decided to do the recording of it on video and somewhat do the songs that were familiar to the fans to celebrate the 18th year anniversary. August name was selected because it was the month that Duritz was born.

Counting Crows’ debut album August and Everything After was released in late 1993 and went in to sell over seven million copies in America. On September 18, 2007 the band came together to perform the complete album live at the Town Hall in New York City. This one night stands supreme in the mind of the band members themselves as one of the greatest nights performing the entire album with passion and precision complete with jam-worthy elongated portions.

“Québec in Hollywood” opens with a free concert at the Hard Rock Café on September 9th by Québec rock bands – The Respectables, Steve Hill, Tailor Made Fable and Dance Laury Dance.

Québec, with its European-French influence, has one of the highest concentrations of artists per capita in the world. Angelenos will get to experience the vast creativity and flair during “Québec in Hollywood” of Québécois culture in their own backyards.

Slated events at “Québec in Hollywood” include a Québec film festival at the Egyptian Theatre, performances by top bands and comedy acts on renowned stages, a Montréal fashion runway show at Hollywood & Highland Center, restaurant tastings crafted by top Québécois chefs, a green transportation design symposium, gallery exhibitions and more.

“Québec in Hollywood’s” events will take place in different locations around and near Hollywood from September 9th – 25th; culminating with the premiere of Cirque du Soleil’s IRIS at the legendary Kodak Theatre. For IRIS Cirque du Soleil preview:

Click here to view the embedded video.

“In 1987, the Québec Government Office in L.A. played a pivotal role in bringing Cirque du Soleil to Los Angeles, introducing their unique brand of entertainment to the U.S,” explains Yanick Godbout, Director of Governmental Relations and Public Affairs, Québec Government Office in Los Angeles.

“We are now bringing a selection of the best new talent from Québec to Los Angeles. We hope that ‘Québec in Hollywood’ will create the same effect and will serve as a springboard for the next wave of Québécois success.”

Highlights of “Québec in Hollywood” include:

9/9: Hard Rock Café: Free show by Québec rock bands, The Respectables, Steve Hill, Tailor Made Fable and Dance Laury Dance.

9/12‐17: The Grill on Hollywood: Chef Jean‐Pierre Curtat of the 5 Diamond AAA‐rated Nuances Restaurant at the Casino de Montréal, presents a unique menu featuring some of Québec’s best products.

9/15 Comedy Store: Sugar Sammy, named “One Of 10 Rising Comedy Talents From Around The World” by the Hollywood Reporter, performs at the Comedy Store, with opening act, Daniel Tirado.

9/16‐18: Egyptian Theatre: Québec in Hollywood partners with the American Cinematheque to host “Québec in Hollywood Films: The Other North American Cinema.” Opening night features red carpet.

9/19‐24: Public Kitchen & Bar, Roosevelt Hotel: Chef/Owner Laurent Godbout of Chez l’Épicier presents a customized Québec inspired menu for Hollywood.

9/22: Hollywood & Highland Center, Fashion & Opéra Fashion Show: The spring and summer 2012 collections from six of Montréal’s most acclaimed designers.

9/25: Kodak Theatre, Iris: Journey through the world of cinema with the premiere of “Iris” the latest sensation from Cirque du Soleil.

9/9‐25: Roosevelt Hotel: Daily Québec Happy Hours featuring a special menu with Québec drinks and appetizers. Monday‐Thursday at the Tropicana bar and Friday‐Sunday at the Library bar.

A complete list of events is available at www.Quebecinhollywood.com, or at www.facebook.com/Quebecinhollywood

I had the pleasure of talking to Trunk and the following interview is what ensued:

Susie Salva:  How long did it take you to write the book?

Eddie Trunk:  It was longer than I envisioned it would be. I wasn’t as hands on as I thought I would be regarding the layout. The photos have very big part to the book. They are a huge part of the story. It was different to me because I was doing radio for all these years where it was so immediate when you say something everyone hears about it. Doing television it lives on forever. You start on it you spend six months on the book. Then there is another six months before the draft…there is a long process there.

SS:  Are you ever nervous interviewing rock stars?

ET:  No. I’ve done it for so long most of them (rock stars) I can say have become friends or if not friends people I know very well I know where we can and cannot go…there is a great comfort zone so no I don’t get nervous.

SS:  Who was the most surprising rock star you ever meet or interviewed?

ET:  The one I get the most asked about was in 2006 when Axl Rose walked into to my radio station. That would qualify as surprising because we never knew he was coming in. Obviously, it is something people still take about. That is one instant that I was a little nervous because I don’t know Axl. One thing I know is that he can be a little edgy and you never know what is going to tweak him and make him want to leave so you want to make him comfortable. Having him sitting next to me and having a bunch of people in the studio that night to navigate that was a challenge but it was fun.

SS:  Would you ever considered going back and working for a record label?

ET:  Sadly, there is not a lot of them left. The record industry has changed so much since I have worked in it. The industry has completely turned on its head. Funny you asked me that question because it’s not a question I have heard in awhile. The answer is yes! I am enjoying what I am doing now being on the other side of it. I enjoy and am thankful for the fans I have and the relationships with the artists and is certainly don’t want this ride to end. I feel like I have a lot more to contribute a lot more work that I want to do to spread the word about this music and these bands and hopefully entertain people and give these artists platforms TV and radio to talk about their careers and I don’t want that to end.  Obviously, the world of media is changing too. If I did find myself in the position (to work at a label) I would not rule that out.  I think that I could be valuable to companies and there have been companies that have reached out to me about possible consultant roles, brand things with my name and possible imprint record label stuff like that. All of it sounds interesting and I entertain the idea of it, but I never want to do it just to do it or just for ego. I want to do it and if I have a record label and I want to be confident that I have a great label that is going to give these artists a real shot. Just to put my name out there doesn’t mean a lot to me.

SS:  Do you think that your knowledge for trivia is like someones knowledge for trivia stats for baseball?

ET:  Sure, whatever your expertise is whatever you are known for. I think there is a parallel for sports in general with it because there are a lot of baseball, football fans whatever they are that’s there forte that is what they are known for. People like to argue and debating it just like rock ‘n roll. People say all the time, “Oh, I can’t believe how much you know.” Two things, I don’t think I know it all by any stretch when it comes to music. Secondly, I probably know a little more than the average guy when it comes to music but I think of people who are doctors, surgeons and scientists I just don’t think about guys that know a lot about music.

SS:  What do you know for sure personally and professionally?

ET:  I am sure on a professional level at this point in my life I am a pretty good interviewer. Even somebody like Dick Cavett has told me that. I am pretty sure of my ability to talk to anybody about anything. Even artists that I don’t know or I am not fans of. I can strike up conversation and see what makes them tick. I really pride my ability on being able to talk on general and create a comfort zone for these artists so they open up without alienating them. I am sure of my professionalism too. I have been in this business a long time and I never got into drugs, never ran with the wrong crowd. I never been high or late or not functional at work I have always been grateful for the work I have gotten. I have never gotten into contract squabbles. I show up I get the job done. I do it to the best of my abilities. I don’t take it for granted. I make sure I do the best with every opportunity I have.

SS:  Is there any truth about AC/DC hiring Brian Johnson who they met as a limo/or cab driver?

ET:  I don’t know that.  Brian who I know and is a wonderful guy. Brian sang in a band named Geordie prior to getting the job with AC/DC. He was a singer and Bon Scott saw him perform before he died and said if I wasn’t around that guy (Brian Johnson) would be a great singer. Bon Scott gave him his blessing. I am sure at one point in his life Brian Johnson  might have had a job as a cab driver.

SS:  Did you know that Vinnie Appice (Black Sabbath) worked for Verizon?

ET:  That is very possible… There is a perception that if you are in the rock business at any level then you are immediately rich successful and you don’t need to work. The cold hard truth is that is not reality. People think that if you ever put a record out you’re set and if you ever have a video out on MTV back in the day you’re set. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. The music business the second word business is the really important part of the equation. Everybody runs their business in different way. Some guys are hired session guys where some guys are not band members where they only appear in the pictures – they are just employees of the band. Everybody has a different deal if you are one of the key guys and you own part of the band or have the publishing and you have a lot of success then that could really carry you. You might be a salary guy and the money ran out a long time ago..There are plenty guys out there that have day jobs that people would be shocked to find out about.

SS:  How come you didn’t include Ironman on your list of best songs by Black Sabbath?

ET:  Every list on the Play list intentionally excludes the bands well-known songs. “Welcome to the Jungle” is not listed on the Gun’s N Roses best list, “Rock ‘N Roll All Night” is not listed on the KISS list. To me those lists were about exposing other songs that people should check out that they might not know. Everybody knows hits. Playlists were a very tricky part of the book. There were a ton of songs that had to be cut back because of space. The songs are not in any order. Number one is not the best song it is just the way the layout had to be. It was just a fun thing to show the deeper tracks I think people should check out. I don’t ever play their well known hits from these artists on my radio show. I am about trying to expose other stuff.

SS:  I was surprised to read that Paul Stanley and Ozzy Osbourne were standoffish with you?

ET:  In the case of Ozzy I don’t know if Ozzy knows about it it is his wife and manager Sharon. I don’t know Sharon that well she would stop Ozzy from doing anything with me. I haven’t had any interaction like that and it makes it extremely frustrating. Because if you don’t have direct conversation like that you are only guessing and I honestly have no idea what it is? Do I have opinions about what Ozzy has done and has not done. Absolutely, as has any critic in the world. So what’s the big deal? Ozzy has stated that himself. That I don’t understand and it’s pretty baffling to me.  There has not been any direct communication so there’s not much to do about it.

The thing with Paul Stanley is kinda strange to me because I have been a massive supporter of the band for thirty years. 99% support I have for that band has been extremely positive and I am still the only person in their hometown that actually plays their music. But have I been critical of what they have done recently? Absolutely! As a fan I find it hard to look at what they are doing with the band now. But if people are fine with it that’s great I gave my opinion. I am a fan! I am entitled to give an opinion and I don’t think anyone should be afraid to give their opinions. And if you don’t agree with it come on discuss it, debate it, let’s talk about it. There are plenty of artists that have been on my radio show and TV show who I have been very critical about things they have done throughout their career There is nobody that is a fan of music that hasn’t said that they liked one thing or another. What makes my show work and makes it successful is we not afraid and don’t pull punches we say how we feel as fans. We get into debating it ourselves. We fight with ourselves about this stuff. It’s not right or wrong it’s having the discussion and the debate. Most of the artists get that and appreciate it and respect that. Others, unfortunately don’t see it that way and if you say one thing negatively they make the wrong conclusions walk away from you. As I say to everybody my door is open to everyone and hope that they will eventually come around and have a discussion and debate it. I have the upmost respect for people like Lars Ulrich the Def Leppard guys, so many of these guys that I have been critical about they have never held it against me still invite me to their shows. Rush the same thing…many times I said about Rush I wish they played edgier music in the ‘80s. Alex Lifeson came up to me and said that he agree with me 100%. You never know where it’s coming from you just have to do what you do and hope it all works out in the end. To me the most important thing on that thought is having dialogue not talking to other people, not reading stuff online, did this person say this or that not reading chat rooms or postings but have direct contact have direct communication. If you have a problem with something a person said come speak to the person directly. Have a discussion. Don’t buy second or third hand stuff. That’s the one thing I find mind really boggling.

SS:  What are your new favorite bands?

ET:  There are a number of them out there…I guess my favorite new band is Black Country Communion. I love those guys they made two records less than a year and both are really good records. I am a big Glenn Hughes fan, Jason Bonham, Derek Shennian, and Joe Bonamassa are remarkable. They are a new band but each of the guys have a history.

SS:  Is there anything you would like to include in this conversation?

ET:  I am grateful for the support of the book and people who have gotten it so far absolutely love it and it’s been unanimously really well received. I appreciate in the bigger picture of everybody and anybody that cares what I do. Up on thirty years and I don’t take it for granted. I am grateful and appreciative I have put a lot of  work into this to build this whatever this is. I never get to high or too low. I am just appreciative about the people I have met that appreciates what I do. Thanks to them. Keep fighting the fight and hoping these bands have platforms and keep getting their do and people can discover some great music.

Starting the day off in a leisurely fashion, Joe and his pals lounged poolside at Las Vegas’ premiere LIQUID Pool Lounge.  He spent the day relaxing in his VIP Cabana enjoying the desert sun and snacking on LIQUID’s specialty Mahi Mahi Tacos. No doubt, the ladies were all a buzz, surrounding the cabana to catch a glimpse of the heartthrob in his birthday swimsuit.

After some fun-in-the-sun, Joe and his boys ate at Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge inside Bellagio. They were treated to a exquisite meal exclusively prepared by Executive Chef, Akira Back, including the restaurant’s signature dish, the Big Eye Tuna Pizza.

Joe-Jonas-Haze-Las-Vegas

Once their bellies were full of the Japanese delicacies, they went to Deuce Lounge to play a few rounds of blackjack. As Joe and his entourage were on their way out of Deuce, headed to HAZE, nearly 20 female fans dying to get an autograph or photo with their favorite star swarmed him.  After graciously signing a few autographs, Joe Jonas rocked it at HAZE Nightclub with a special live set, performing tracks off of his forthcoming solo debut album FastLife. FastLife is set to release in stores next month.

Around 2:30 a.m., the pop superstar Joe Jonas met up with his friends being treated to a VIP table on the mezzanine level of HAZE. Joe, taken off guard, was presented with a specialty pre-birthday cake in the shape of a bright colored keyboard.  His birthday is August 15. Fellow partygoers were holding up sparklers and shooting confetti into the air while toasting Joe to another successful year!  Joe spent the rest of the evening dancing to the beats of the resident DJ IKON, mingling with friends as well as chatting with the bevy of gorgeous girls.

Joe Jonas with 22nd Birthday celebration at HAZE Nightclub Las Vegas

Now that’s a birthday bash to remember! Happy Birthday 22nd Joe Jonas from LA’s the Place!

Special guests will join the Glendale Pops Orchestra as they celebrate the Bossa Nova and Samba with favorites from Anotonio Carlos Jobim, Sergio Mendes. Songs include Wave, Girl From Ipanema, Desifinado, One Note Samba, Watch What Happens, and more.

The nicest part is that admission is absolutely free. Get a dose of pure culture and make your make it a memorable summer evening, 2011.

The balance of the Pops season will take place at the historic Alex Theatre.

Although the concert is free to the public, there will be reserved seating for season ticket holders.

For more information, please visit www.glendalearts.org.

Roxette is known for their dual vocal chores (Marie Fredriksson & Per Gessle), synsonic rhythms and electric pop sensibilities. Their epic ballads like “Listen to Your Heart,” define this sensational Swedish super group. All your favorite tracks are included on this Greatest Hits disc. If you loved them in the late ‘80s they are right there on this CD for you to indulge in and be transported back in time. Marie Fredriksson vocals are gutsy, sensual, sultry and sexy. Ultimately, upbeat and accessible you’ll enjoy this greatest hit disc. This catalog lives up to the test of time and the band seems as relevant today as when they were first discovered in the ‘80s.

Roxette’s new Greatest Hits collection features 12 major chart hits and fan favorites, including “It Must Have Been Love,” “The Look,” “Listen To Your Heart,” “Dangerous,” and “Joyride,” as well as two new songs from Charm School. These songs will bring a smile to your face and transport you back to songs of yesterday.

Charm School is a new album of 12 songs in a style that’s best described as “updated classic Roxette,” from the initial power pop fireworks of ”Way Out” to the bittersweet closer, ”Sitting On Top Of The World.”

Roxette’s acclaimed new album, Charm School, released internationally in February, will be released digitally in the U.S. by Capitol/EMI. Capitol/EMI will release a new collection of Roxette’s Greatest Hits on CD and digitally.  Both titles will be available for album and individual song download purchase from all major digital service providers.

The chances for a new Roxette album to happen looked slim when vocalist Marie Fredriksson was diagnosed with a brain tumor in the autumn of 2002. But Marie managed to defeat the illness, and starting in 2009, the pieces gradually fell together for Charm School’s creation. First, Marie and her Roxette partner, Per Gessle, were reunited onstage in Amsterdam to perform ”It Must Have Been Love” and ”The Look” during Per’s ”Party Crasher” tour.  Before long, Roxette had made a full-scale comeback as headliners for the ”Night of the Proms” tour in front of more than 600,000 people in Holland, Belgium and Germany.

”By then we started to think ahead and plan for the possibility of making a new album – an album that captured everything that’s good about Roxette while still looking ahead,” said Gessle.  During the tour, the band’s hotel rooms were transformed into recording studios where a string of new Roxette songs took shape.

Back home in Sweden, the work continued during the spring and autumn of 2010.  Just as when the band recorded in their heyday, Per had written many songs from which to choose.  The sensitive ballad “In My Own Way,” for example, is a rediscovered gem from 1984, when Gessle and Fredriksson’s shared dream of international recognition was yet to be realized, while the album’s newest song is the infectious groove-master single ”She’s Got Nothing On (But The Radio),” written in the autumn of 2010.

Between those songs is everything that has made Roxette one of the world’s most radio played pop groups; the clinging melodies, the passionate delivery, the humorous pop sense and the unique mix of Marie Fredriksson’s and Per Gessle’s voices. All wrapped up in a musical package that is unmistakably 2011.

”For me, the starting point has always been to write songs for Marie’s voice,” said Gessle. “She got this ability to make you believe every word she sings, and that’s why she brings the stories to life. As a songwriter that’s an incredible gift to be a part of.”

Charm School was recorded in the south of Sweden and Stockholm with Clarence Öfwerman and Christoffer Lundqvist as producers (together with Per and Marie). The album is a magnificent return to form after ten years of trials and challenges.  As Marie Fredriksson sings in one of the album’s quintessential tracks, ”No One Makes It On Her Own.”

Roxette is currently on tour internationally with European dates scheduled. For all things Roxette you can find them at: www.roxette.se

Roxette: Charm School [Digital]
1. Way Out
7. Dream On
2. No One makes It On Her Own
8. Big Black Cadillac
3. She’s Got Nothing On (But The Radio)
9. In My Own Way
4. Speak To Me
10. After All
5. I’m Glad You Called
11. Happy On The Outside
6. Only When I Dream
12. Sitting On Top Of The World

Roxette: Greatest Hits [CD; Digital]
** Includes two new tracks from Charm School
1. The Look
7. Fading Like A Flower (Every Time You Leave)
2. Dressed For Success
8. Spending My Time
3. Listen To Your Heart
9. Church of Your Heart
4. Dangerous
10. Wish I Could Fly
5. It Must Have Been Love
11. She’s Got Nothing On (But The Radio)
6. Joyride
12. No One Makes It On Her Own

This release of songs sounds much better sonically and is so reminiscent of that era that it will have you hopping and bopping to their strong catalog of songs. Also included is a second disc of the group’s live set from that period recorded August 20, 1981 at the Club Metro in Boston, MA. If you just want to feel happy with these peppy songs just slip on this CD or download onto your IPod and you will instantly be transported to the sounds of the ‘80s. The second CD displays there genius found in their live performances still sounding fresh and energetic today. This CD is probably one of the most outstanding pop album of all time. Belinda’s voice, hooky songs and strong guitar playing make this disc so compelling.

Beauty and the Beat was the Go-Go’s debut album, released in 1981 by I.R.S. Records.  The album hit #1 on Billboard’s Top 200 Albums chart, and was the first album to top the chart by an all-female band that wrote and performed its own songs. The album’s singles, “Our Lips Are Sealed” and “We Got The Beat,” also charted in several countries, fueling album sales of more than two million in the U.S. alone.  Beauty and the Beat is considered one of the decade’s defining albums and it is on Rolling Stone’s list of the ‘500 Greatest Albums Of All Time.’

The Go-Go’s will hit the road this summer on their Ladies Gone Wild tour, a national U.S. trek with the legendary Belinda Carlisle, Charlotte Caffey, Gina Schock, Jane Wiedlin and Kathy Valentine. The tour will include a very special Los Angeles homecoming show at the Greek Theater on August 17, Belinda’s birthday. An exclusive VIP package will be available in most tour markets for fans to meet the band and purchase limited edition merchandise. In August, the Go-Go’s will receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Last summer the Go-Go’s had scheduled a farewell tour which was subsequently canceled when guitarist Jane Wiedlin required surgery after suffering injury to her knees in a hiking fall. During the band’s time off, they decided they were not quite ready to hang up their instruments and set to work preparing for this summer’s 30th Anniversary spectacular, Ladies Gone Wild.

Their story truly is a punk version of the American Dream. They came, they saw and they conquered the charts and airwaves with their kicky kitsch and sparkling California appeal, five feisty role models for future generations of ready-to-rock girls. From their days as America’s sweethearts to their current status as superstars who pioneered a genre, the Go-Go’s preside over an amazing three-decade reign as high priestesses of pop.

Today, the Go-Go’s live show continues to deliver every bit of the raw energy of their now-legendary punk beginnings, tempered with the wisdom of three decades of pop perfection. Don’t miss the celebration and a chance to go wild with the ladies of the Go-Go’s.

The Go-Go’s: Beauty and the Beat [2CD; digital collection 1]
Disc 1 (original album, remastered)
1. Our Lips Are Sealed
2. How Much More
3. Tonite
4. Lust To Love
5. This Town
6. We Got The Beat
7. Fading Fast
8. Automatic
9. You Can’t Walk In Your Sleep (If You Can’t Sleep)
10. Skidmarks On My Heart
11. Can’t Stop The World

Disc 2 (Live At The Metro in Boston, 1981 – ALL TRACKS PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED)
1. Skidmarks On My Heart
2. How Much More
3. Tonite
4. Fading Fast
5. London Boys
6. Cool Jerk
7. Automatic
8. Lust To Love
9. Can’t Stop The World
10. This Town
11. You Can’t Walk In Your Sleep (If You Can’t Sleep)
12. Our Lips Are Sealed
13. Let’s Have a Party
14. We Got The Beat
15. Surfing And Spying
16. (Remember) Walking In The Sand
17. Vacation

The Go-Go’s: Beauty and the Beat [digital collection 2]
1. Our Lips Are Sealed
9. You Can’t Walk In Your Sleep (If You Can’t Sleep)
2. How Much More
10. Skidmarks On My Heart
3. Tonite
11. Can’t Stop The World
4. Lust To Love
12. Skidmarks On My Heart [Live]
5. This Town
13. Can’t Stop The World [Live]
6. We Got The Beat
14. Our Lips Are Sealed [Live]
7. Fading Fast
15. Let’s Have A Party [Live]
8. Automatic
16. We Got The Beat [Live]

Remaining Dates of THE GO-GO’S: LADIES GONE WILD TOUR

AUGUST
12    Vancouver, BC        Commodore Ballroom
13    Portland, OR        Oregon Zoo Ampitheatre
14    Seattle, WA        Woodland Park Zoo
16    San Francisco, CA    The Fillmore
17    Los Angeles, CA    The Greek Theater
20   Temecula, CA        Pechanga Resort & Casino
23    Aspen, CO        Belly Up
24    Denver, CO        Ogden Theater
26    Dallas, TX        House of Blues
27    Houston, TX        House of Blues
28    Austin, TX        Paramount Theater

www.gogos.com

Music & Muscle

Guests including Amy Smart, 90210′s Evan Ross, The Apprentice’s Mark McGrath, and NBC’s The Event star Taylor Cole, reveled in performances by Samantha Ronson, The Undertakers and Liquid Blond which featured the fitness guru himself, David Barton, on drums.

Playmate Jayde Nicole, Reality Star Brittny Gastineau, Life Happens’ Geoff Stults, Taker’s Johnathon Schaech, Disaster Movie’s Nick Steele, Virgin Mobile “celebrity couple” Spencer Falls and Sarah Carroll, among others, also attended the swanky event, sipping on custom specialty SVEDKA Cocktails – Hot_Bot and Celeb_U_Bot – and getting their groove on with dance music by DJ Devin Lucien.

Amy Smart & Taylor Cole at DavidBartonGym West Coast Launch Party

Look Better Naked with DavidBartonGym

With locations in New York, Miami, Chicago and Seattle, DavidBartonGym has hand-picked equipment, personally mentored trainers with a tradition of changing bodies and award winning design. Gym innovator David Barton promises to have members that “LookBetterNaked.”

Amy Smart & Mark McGrath at DavidBartonGym Launch, The Roxy

To find a DavidBartonGym near you, visit: www.davidbartongym.com

David Barton on Drums at the Roxy

Davie Barton participated in the ultrahip Carrera Sunglasses Escape at the Chateau Marmont and gifted many celebrities with a membership at DavidBartonGym.

Malin Ackerman and Maria Menunous at Carrera Sunglasses Escape

Photos by: Seth Browarnik/WorldRedEye.com