By Thomas S. Orwat, Jr.

The great American Southern rock institution known as Lynyrd Skynyrd has just released a passionate, hit filled CD/DVD combo entitled “Live from Freedom Hall.” This CD/DVD combo is a fitting tribute to and celebration of a band, which has faced more adversity and heartbreak then any band on the face of the planet. This spectacular concert was recorded on June 15th, 2007  at Kentucky’s Freedom Hall and was one of the last performances with original keyboardist Billy Powell and bassist Ean Evans in the line-up. Tragically, both Powell and Evans passed away in 2009 while the band was in the middle of recording their 2009 release “Gods & Guns. “

During the intro on the DVD, Lynyrd Skynyrd members Gary Rossington-guitar, Johhny Van Zant –vocals and Rickey Medlocke discuss the fact that it’s been 30 years since infamous plane crash that killed vocalist Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and injured many of the other band members.  But because of the strength and timelessness of the songs, the band has been able to carry on even with all of the line-up changes the band has endured. Johnny Van Zant eloquently states “They are great songs and great songs will out live all of us.”

After the short interview intro, “Live at Freedom Hall” kicks off with a “Travelin’ Man” a hard rocking anthem which features a unique duet with vocalist Johnny Van Zant and a video tape of his late brother Ronnie Van Zant. Throughout this performance there is several times that video footage of the classic Skynyrd line-up appears to the delight of the diehards.  The Rock and Roll Hall of Famers crank though 15 classic tracks including a newer ballad called “Red, White and Blue.”

The most amazing aspect of this concert is the chemistry of the band. Van Zant is a great frontman and really engages the audience. He is truly the only person on the face of the earth that could have stepped in and replaced his older brother. Guitarist and former Blackfoot member Ricky Medlocke is a guitar god. He is charismatic and just rips through note for note perfect renditions of the classics and he looks like he really appreciates the opportunity to be in Skynyrd.  Original guitarist Gary Rossington is still sharp and even with his health problems he was facing at the time he was still an integral part of the band. Keyboardist Billy Powell was flawless and it’s truly heartbreaking that we will never see him play again. And the same goes for Bassist Ean Evans who was only in the band for a short time, but will not be forgotten.

The  DVD ends with one of the greatest songs in rock history “Free Bird.” This line-up does it great justice; Medlocke is brilliant on this one. This is an appropriate conclusion to a phenomenal performance. And while this isn't the original line-up of the band, this version of Skynyrd deserves great respect. So,if you are a fan of southern rock or even classic rock for that matter, you need to find a spot in your collection for this fantastic and historical release.

for more info including tour dates check www.lynyrdskynyrd.com

By Thomas S. Orwat, Jr.

Rock legend OZZY Osbourne has just released "Scream"his 10^thstudio release and first CD in three years.  This 11 track, well written, lyrically profound, hard driving release was produced by OZZY and Kevin Churkois. While OZZY's performance is solid, the most noteworthy aspect of this release is the brilliant guitar work courtesy of new guitarist Gus G. This 29 year old Greek virtuoso guitarist and member of the power metal band Firewind was hired in place of longtime guitarist Zakk Wylde. Although Wylde is a true guitar star, OZZY's music was starting to sound a little too much like ZAKK's solo band Black Label Society, so in that aspect, this is a welcomed and refreshing change.

Gus has an unique axe shredder elegance that incorporates styles of previous OZZY guitarist Randy Rhodes as well as Zakk Wylde. The haunting arpeggio minor chord intro to "Diggin Me Down" is very reminiscent of the 1981 track "Diary of a Madman." In addition,the roar of Gus' guitar intro to "Fearless" is brutally fierce. And the interplay contrast between Gus' ferocious guitar lead break and keyboardist Adam Wakeman elegant classicial piano on "I Want More" is simply breathtaking.

Rounding out the OZZY band for this release is former Rob Zombie bassist and drummer Blasko and Tommy Clufetos respectively.

 OZZY ends this Cd with a tribute to his faithful fans with the short track "I Love You All." On this closing track he eloquently sings "We all must end together now, or one by one we fall, for all these years you all stood by me, God bless, I love you all." A fitting way to end what may very well be his swan song recording. 

For more info on this release and OZZfest tour tour dates check out www.ozzy.com

By Thomas S. Orwat, Jr.

“Tattoos & Tequila” is the third studio solo release by Motley Crue frontman Vince Neil. And while the majority of the Cd is cover songs, this shouldn’t be disregarded as just a quick cash grab. Neil injects passion and new life into his renditions of deep catalog gems from classic rock pioneers such as Aerosmith, the Sex Pistols, Scorpions and Cheap Trick. His resurrection of the obscure Sweet track "AC/DC" is worthy of the price of admission alone. 

Equally impressive is the hard hitting aggressive attack of Neil’s band, which consists of Slaughter’s Jeff Blando-guitar, Dana Strum-bass and Zolthan Chaney-drums. Blando's killer tone and lightning fast licks are impressive especially on "Another Piece of Meat" and the Elvis classic "Viva Las Vegas."

The first single and also title track "Tattoos & Tequila" is one of the two original tracks on the Cd. This modern rock,  party hard song cleverly recapitulates the decadence that encompasses Neil’s existence and was applauded by critics and fans alike when released as a download over a month ago. The other original track is the mid-tempo"Another Bad Day." This was a left over song written by Motley's Nikki Sixx during the sessions for "New Tattoo." This is great track and should be considered for release as the next single. It's a wonder why Crue didn't use it for their "New Tattoo" release.

In summary, if you are looking for the ultimate hard rocking, party Cd for summer 2010, you need to look no further. Vince Neil's "Tattoos & Tequilla" delivers the goods on a shiny silver platter.

Also, Vince Neil's autobiography and companion to this Cd will be released on Sept. 23, 2010. For more info check out www.vinceneil.net  

By Thomas S. Orwat Jr.

During the late 70's, the Washington DC based glam rock band Angel was on the verge of superstardom.  This was a great and highly competitive time in rock music with bands such as Kiss, Boston, Aerosmith , Styx and Queen all being in the prime of their careers. Angel had the looks, the chops, a great stage show and a major label pushing them in Casablanca records  However,  they were never able to break into the mainstream because they lacked that all important ground breaking  major rock anthem.

Last August, Lovember Records re-issued the band’s 1977 lost classic “On Earth as it is In Heaven.” This was the band’s third release and a bit of a departure from their previous two releases in that it was more commercial and less progressive sounding.  This record was produced by legendary producer Eddie Kramer. The band which consisted of Punky Meadows (Guitar), Mickie Jones (Bass), Gregg Giuffria (Keyboards), Barry Brandt (Drums), and Frank DiMino (Vocals), delivered a ten track hard rockin’ release that was infused with infectious songs killer riffs and typical 70’s synth.  Make no doubt about, this definitely sounds like a typical hard rock 70’s record. And that’s a very good thing.

The lead off track “Can You Feel It” is a powerful hard driving track.   “You’re not Fooling Me” is a great epic song featuring some Brian May like leads compliments of Punky Meadows. “That Magic Touch” has a progressive taste in the flavor of Yes provided by Greg Giuffria.  “White Lightning” is an anthem like hard rocker. The closer “Just a Dream” could have fit in nicely on a Styx record.

But still lacking on this album was that elusive song that could rock the charts and send millions to the record stores.

After this record, Angel would release two more studio albums and a live record as well, but still failed to achieve their quest for commercial success. This classic line-up of Angel broke up in the early 80’s. Today Angel exists with only original members Frank DiMino, Barry Brandt still in the band.

Angel could have easily been disregarded as nothing more than a poseur band based solely on image, and maybe in some cases they were. But there is much musically substance to this band.  If you are a fan of 70’s rock, you should consider adding this to your collection. With the added linear notes and re-mastered sound it a nice reminder of the greatest era in rock history.

myspace.com/AngelOfficialSite

By Thomas S. Orwat, Jr.

Last year, heavy metal legends Judas Priest celebrated the 30th anniversary of their break through, classic album "British Steel" by performing the record in its entirety during their summer tour. For any one that witnesses the show, they surely would boast about how amazing it was. Trust me, I witness one of the shows myself and it was an incredible and astonishing metal event unlike anything before. Now if you were unable to catch this tour, you can now watch it in the comforts of your own home. The British Steel - 30th anniversary edition not only includes a remastered version of the CD with two bonus tracks, but also a DVD of the entire British Steel 16 track concert filmed at the Seminole Hard Rock Arena in Hollywood, Florida.

On the DVD, the band rips through the British Steel release with note for note perfection with passion and energy just like they did 30 years ago. Guitar gods Glenn Tipton and KK Downing prove why they are masters of their craft with lightning fast leads and infectious riffs. This concert DVD clearly shows why they are regarded as the most influential axe-duo of all time. In addition, vocalist Rob Halford is still as spectacular as ever. What else can be said about him, he is the master of metal and in a class all of his own. In addition to the" British Steel" tracks, Priest also performs "The Ripper," "Prophecy" (from their most recent cd "Nostradamus") "Hell Patrol", "Victims of Change", "Freewheel Burning", "Diamonds and Rust" and their big 1982 hit "You Got Another Thing Coming."

 Also, included on the DVD is an insightful feature with the band discussing in great detail the making of this historic CD. This is a must have for any metal fan, old school or current.

 www.judaspriest.com

After two overly ambitious, but commercially disappointing concept records, Blackie Lawless and WASP have decided to strip it down and release a straight forward 9 track( two are cover songs) CD. Fans wanting a return to the classic stylings of early WASP, will be a bit disappointed. Lets face it, WASP will never sound like they did in the early 80's. However, this CD shows that Lawless and company are still musically relevant and making better music than many current artists. This just isn't the groundbreaking CD that many had hoped for, or one that will bring in any new fans.

Highlights include the single "Babylons Burning."Also mention must be made of the unique guitar work of new comer Doug Blair. This guitar hero gives the WASP sound a fresh twist with his innovative lead guitar work. He's is certainly the star of this CD.

Review - Deb Rao

Puddle Of Mudd return with a very strong showing on their fourth release Volume 4: Songs In The Key Of Love And Hate. Although the genre of grunge rock has disappeared, one band keeping the vibe alive is Puddle Of Mudd. They say there is a fine line between love and hate and Puddle Of Mudd inflinct their torrid anquish views of love gone bad relationships in a captivating post grunge setting admist ferocious guitar chords and singer Wes Scantlin sexually driven lyrics.
 
Opening track "Stoned" sets the mood unleashing the Spartan guitar chords, as Wes sings,"Check your attitude at the door, I am thinkin' I rather be stoned." As the charasmatic singer sings about the aggravations of everyday life from everything to politics to love.
 
The first single of the album,"Spaceship" takes you to another planet full of beautiful women aliens and the sexually explicit lyrics. Wes Scantlin wastes no time in cutting right to the chase, as he sings "Let's get it over and just get naked". Life is short right? This song has been burning up the FM radio stations. Be sure to check out the Spacesip video at www.myspace.com/puddleofmudd  to get the full effect of the song.
 
Volume 4: Love Songs In The Key Of Love And Hate, finds the band returning to their grunge roots. Nothing pretenious here. The bands latest release is less commercial than their previous Famous and I think that is why most of the songs stand on their own. Puddle Of Mudd sing of every day emotions and real life. One of the gems on the album is the ballad "Keep It Together", a song about long distance relationships. The guitar melody is very beautiful and Wes sings with much emotion. The song "Out Of My Way"reflects the love gone wrong vibe of the album.
 
Puddle Of Mudd return to their punk/grunge roots on "Blood On the Table" and "Pitchin A Fit."  For anyone who ever lost somewhere,"Better Place" really strikes a sad chord with its poignant lyrics.
 
The album ends on a high note with the schoolboyish song "Hooky". It takes you back to when life was simple and free with no obligations. One interesting aspect of this album is that it seemed the band went into the studio and cranked out an album filled with no filler tracks in such a short period of time. I have to say the CD hasn't left my player since I received it Christmas Day.
 
The difference between the Nirvana and Puddle Of Mudd, is that this album leaves you feeling good upon listening. Some songs such as "Spaceship" and "Stoned"  on the album have that party vibe that makes you want to dance. The Alice In Chains/Ramones guitar riffs never let up and it is great to hear the band so exhilarated.  Be sure to check out Puddle Of Mudd live in concert this Winter.

It's been 11 years since the KISS-loyal have received any new music from the band. Their last outing, the dismal Psycho Circus, was nothing to cheer about, especially considering it was a reunion of the 4 original members.

By Thomas Stanley Orwat Jr.

I got an advance of the new Joe Perry Cd and all I can say is WOW! Some great tracks on here and four of them feature a new vocalist named Hagen. This kid sounds just like Steven Tyler at times.  I really think that some of the songs that Hagen sings on would of been great Aerosmith songs especially the first track "We've got a Long Way to Go.," and "Do You Wonder." Hagen and Perry seem to have a natural chemistry. If for some reason,Aerosmith can't continue, Perry should continue working with Hagen in the Joe Perry Project full time.

Now on the tracks that Perry sings lead vocals, while they are quite different stylistically, they do not sacrificing the continuity of the CD. If anything they make for an interesting musical journey.I don't know if it's just Perry's monotone vocals, but tracks such as "Slingshot,"  "Heaven and Hell" and "No Surprise" take a few listens to sink in, but once they do you can't forget them.

But the main reason anyone buys a Joe Perry Cd is for the guitar work and on this CD, Joe is playing like the guitar hero he truly is. Perry throws it all at this one, slide guitar, talk box, lightening fast riffs,acoustic blues it's all here. Check out the instrumental track "Wooden Ships" to hear Perry at his all time best. Perry may be getting older, but he's also getting even better at his craft.

"Have Guitar, Will Travel" is an excellent effort from one of the most influential guitarist of the last 35 years. It deserves your attention,I prefer this release much more than Joe Perry's 2005 solo release. And that one was nominated for a Grammy.

www.joeperry.com

It was almost 20 years years since ex-Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley released a solo Cd. During that time Ace rejoined Kiss and then quit the band again. He struggled with his demons, but then turned his life around. He is now sober, healthy and dedicated to resurrecting his career. During the last few years, Ace' focused his efforts on a new CD. The result is "Anomaly," a hard hitting, well written 12 track rock masterpiece.

One of Ace's goals on "Anomaly" was to recapture the vibe and sound of his 1978 platinum selling solo release. But this isn't just a carbon copy of his debt solo release.  There are some modern influences on this release as well.

The Cd kicks into high gear with the intense hard rocking track "Foxy & Free." This song has an intense feedback driven solo that quickly implies that Ace is going directly for the kill."Outer Space" the first single off the the Cd is one of the heaviest songs of Ace's career. This track has an infectious chorus with in-your face riffs."Genghis Khan" is another heavy track with an unique tuning and effects and features the backing vocals of Pearl Aday, the daughter of Meatloaf. Ace recently stated that this is his most favorite song that he's ever written. 

"A Little Below the Angels" is a bit of a departure for Ace. It's a reflective, mid-tempo, tender acoustic ballad that features back up vocals by his daughter Monique. The autobiographical "A Little Below the Angels" is another mid-tempo track in which Ace discusses his struggles with drugs and alcohol.

The instrumental "Fractured Quantum" is the last track and one of the more impressive on the Cd.  If you are a fan of killer guitar work, you won't find a better Cd on the shelves. Simply put, Ace plays rock guitar, and is a true guitar hero. He doesn't have to rely on flashy million-notes-per-secnd guitar gymnastics that is the style of so many one trick pony guitarist out there. Also,Ace sings on all the vocal tracks, which he hasn't done since his 78 debut solo release. He has never sounded better.

In addition to sounding great, the cd cover and artwork is also pretty cool. In keeping with the marketing tradition of Kiss, this Cd also has a very unique fold out pyramid packaging. Ace definitely knows what his fans want. And makes this Cd a true collectors item.

It's going to be interesting to hear what the new Kiss Cd will sound like. There will most certainly be comparisons and Ace has raised the bar very high. Game on Gene and Paul.

So, if you don't have it already, call your local record store and ask if they have the new Ace Frehley Cd in stock, if they do, tell then to put it on hold and rush over there or you can get one at www.acefrehley.com Ace is back and I told you so!!!