Monday, February 28, 2011

February 28, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
ALICE IN CHAINS...Facelift (1990)
(CD, Allmusic review)

The debut CD from Alice In Chains reached number 42 on the U.S. Billboard album chart. First off, let me just say that "Man In The Box" is the best song the band has ever done. That track alone is worth purchasing the CD. The rest of the album doesn't compare to "Man In The Box" but there are still some good tracks here, including "Sea Of Sorrow" and "Bleed The Freak". Alice In Chains, in my opinion, was the best new hard rock/grunge band to come out of the 90's (I know most folks disagree). If you've never heard this one check it out, it rocks. Some of the songs are kinda slow but still have that 'edge'. Recommended


ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 28
Pat Monahan of Train is 42;

ON THIS DATE
1942 Brian Jones of the Rolling Stons is born in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England. Jones died in 1969
1970 Led Zeppelin had to change their name to the Nobs for a show in Copenhagen in order to avoid a lawsuit from the family of airship creator Ferdinand Von Zeppelin
1976 At the Grammys: The Eagles - "Lyin' Eyes' Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group
1984 At the Grammys: The Police - "Every Breath You Take" Best Pop Performance and Song of the Year, "Synchronicity" Best Rock Performance
1996 At the Grammys: Hootie And The Blowfish - Best New Artist, Allman Brothers Band - "Jessica" Best Rock Instrumental
2007 The Doors receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. John Densmore does not attend the ceremonies as he is still angry with Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger

Sunday, February 27, 2011

February 27, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
ALBERT KING/STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN...In Session (1999)
(CD/DVD, DVD, vinyl, Allmusic review)

Originally recorded in 1983 Albert King and Stevie Ray Vaughan delivered a most entertaining performance. The recording saw a release in 1999 and is now available in a CD/DVD combo pack, and is currently number 52 on the Billboard U.S. album charts. Note: the vinyl LP only has 4 of the songs on it. I knew that I was going to be impressed with the album before I ever put it on. What I didn't know is HOW impressive it is. I could use all the adjectives: great, outstanding, phenomenal, genius, fantastic, etc., etc. I think it would be best if you checked it out yourself if you're into the blues. The in-between chatter is very interesting to listen to. Vaughan was heavily influenced by Albert and many other blues players, and King was impressed with Stevie Ray. These 2 guys played their hearts out that night, their guitar work is rather impressive and captivating. Recommended, easily!


ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 27
Neal Schon from Journey is 57; Adrian Smith from Iron Maiden is 55; Johnny Van Zant from Lynyrd Skynyrd is 51; Mike Cross from Sponge is 46;

ON THIS DATE
1977 Keith Richards from the Rolling Stones is arrested in Toronto for heroin, cocaine and narcotics paraphernalia. Police believe his intentions are to traffic the drugs. He got off with a fine and community service
1980 At the Grammys: Billy Joel - 52nd Street Best Pop Vocal Performance and Album of the Year
2002 At the Grammys: U2 - Best Rock Album for All That You Can’t Leave Behind, Record of the Year “Walk On”, Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group “Stuck In A Moment You Can’t Get Out Of”, Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group “Elevation”
2006 It is announced that Cold has broken up. They reunited in 2009
2006 Dave Wyndorf of Monster Magnet is hospitalized due to a drug overdose

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 28 AARON LEWIS of STAIND 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, March 2 GEORGE HARRISON 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Saturday, February 26, 2011

February 26, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
ALICE COOPER...Pretties For You (1969)
(CD, LP, Allmusic review)

The debut album for Alice Cooper, in this case referring to the band rather than the individual, only reached number 193 on the U.S. Billboard album charts. I've been having a blast checking out all these debut albums lately. Most of them are great records, but this time I can't tell you that. I had never heard this release before. In fact, I had no idea that Alice Cooper had released an album as early as 1969. The hard rock sound they would develop is hinted at throughout the record but this debut has the 60's-psychedelic-Cream/Doors sound to it. The album isn't that great. It's not horrible but not a classic album. Highlights for me are "Sing Low, Sweet Cheerio", "Fields Of Regret" and "Reflected". I recommend you check it out if you're curious to see how their career got going, otherwise you can skip this one


ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 26
Fats Domino is 83; Paul Cotton from Poco is 68; Jonathan Cain from Journey is 61; Tim Commerford from Audioslave is 43;

ON THIS DATE

1943 Bob “Bear” Hite of Canned Heat was born in Torrance, California. Hite died in 1981
1985 At the Grammy's: Best Rock Male Performance - Bruce Springsteen "Dancing In The Dark"
1996 At the 38th Grammy's: Best Hard Rock Performance - Pearl Jam “Spin The Black Circle”
2008 Buddy Miles dies at the age of 60. He had been the drummer for Jimi Hendrix. He had also performed with Carlos Santana and David Bowie

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 28 AARON LEWIS of STAIND 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, March 2 GEORGE HARRISON 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Friday, February 25, 2011

February 25, 2011


The ALBUM OF THE DAY
GEORGE HARRISON...All Things Must Pass (1970)
(CD, LP, Allmusic review)
In tribute, as today would have been George's 68th birthday. George jumped out of the Beatles and landed himself a huge hit with this album, which reached number 1 on the U.S. Billboard charts. Based on all the research I could find All Things Must Pass is the second highest selling solo album from the Beatles, behind McCartney's Band On The Run. This is a fantastic album, only thing is that sometimes you kinda wish Phil Spector was not the producer. I have a feeling that these songs presented in an atmosphere of no "echo" or "wall of sound" it would be an even better record. Nevertheless, it's still wonderful as the songs George wrote are crafted together so well. Harrison was such a great songwriter as he did support John and Paul all those years, it was bound to rub off. Highlights: "Art Of Dying", "Let It Down", "Run Of The Mill", "Ballad Of Sir Frankie Crisp (Let It Roll)", to just name a few. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!



ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 25
Dennis Diken from The Smithereens is 54; Mike Peters from The Alarm is 52; Richard Liles, formerly with 3 Doors Down, is 38;

ON THIS DATE
1943 George Harrison is born in Liverpool, England. Harrison died in 2001
1963 VeeJay Records releases "Please Please Me" by the Beatles in the U.S. It does nothing
1981 At the Grammys: Billy Joel-Glass Houses Best Rock Vocal Performance, Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band-“Against The Wind” Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocal
1985 U2 begin their first U.S. tour. That same night Sting performed his first solo gig in New York City
1986 At the 28th Grammys: Don Henley-“The Boys Of Summer” Best Rock Male Vocal Performance
1992 At the 34th Grammys: Bonnie Raitt-"Luck Of The Draw" Best Rock Vocal Performance, Solo and “Something To Talk About” Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female
1990 At the 40th Grammys: The Wallflowers-"One Headlight" Best Rock Song and Best Rock Performance By A Group. That same evening Roy Orbision is inducted into the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences
2008 Eddie Van Halen and Valerie Bertinelli appear on the Oprah Winfrey Show. The topic: their failed marriage
2011 Vince Neil of Motley Crue is released from jail after serving 10 days of a 15 day sentence stemming from an arrest of drunken driving on the Las Vegas strip June 27, 2010

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 28 AARON LEWIS of STAIND 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, March 2 TBA 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Thursday, February 24, 2011

February 24

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
CAGE THE ELEPHANT...Thank You Happy Birthday (2011)
(CD, LP, Allmusic review)
This album went to number 2 on the U.S. Billboard charts earlier this year. If you like alternative rock music I recommend you check this one out. Sometimes they remind me of the Smashing Pumpkins, other times Radiohead, other tracks deliver their own style. It was a fun listen


ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 24
Paul Jones from Manfred Mann is 69; Lonnie Turner, formerly with the Steve Miller Band, is 64; George Thorogood is 61;

ON THIS DATE
1969 The Jimi Hendrix Experience performed their last concert in London at the Royal Albert Hall
1992 Kurt Cobain of Nirvana and Courtney Love marry
1993 At the Grammys: Eric Clapton's "Tears In Heaven" is the big winner of the evening, Melissa Etheridge’s "Ain’t It Heavy" wins Best Rock Performance, Female, Best Hard Rock Song goes to the Red Hot Chili Peppers "Give It Away"
1998 The Smashing Pumplins are sued by Virgin Records, who claim the band owed them an album three months earlier
2004 After We Go by Tantric is released
2008 ZZ Top play a pre-race show at the '08 Auto Club 500, the debut West Coast event of the NASCAR season, at the California Speedway

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 28 AARON LEWIS of STAIND 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, 2 TBA 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Wednesday, February 23, 2011

February 23

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
THE BEATLES...Rock 'N' Roll Music (1976)
(LP, Allmusic review)

This compilation reached number 2 on the U.S. Billboard album charts. The music here is phenomenal, no question about that. The whole idea behind this collection was to gather the harder, faster numbers the band had recorded throughout their history. The first 3 sides have several of the covers they did from their heroes such as Chuck Berry, Little Richard and Carl Perkins along with their own material. The 4th side has all Beatle original tracks, including "Helter Skelter", the loudest raunchiest rocking track the band ever did. The record also includes "Birthday" and "Revolution", two more heavy rocker. Those 3 tracks alone proved that the Beatles easily had the talent to be a hard rock band had they wanted to. When McCartney was in his 20's and 30's and even into his 40's he could easily belt out a screamer such as "I'm Down", which is included here. This is a great double album that I wish would see a CD release but that is hardly likely. If you happen to own the album pull it out and listen and prepare to rock. Recommended for sure

ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 23
Johnny Winter is 67; Brad Whitford from Aerosmith is 59; Michael Wilton from Queensryche is 49; Jeff Beres from Sister Hazel is 40;

ON THIS DATE

1965 The Beatles begin filming their second movie Eight Arms To Hold You, later named Help!, in the Bahamas
1978 At the Grammys The Eagles win Record Of The Year for Hotel California and Fleetwood Mac wins Album Of The Year for Rumours
2000 Carlos Santana won eight Grammy awards, including album of the year for Supernatural, tying the record set by Michael Jackson in 1983 for most trophies in one night. Elton John receives the Living Legend Award
2005 Muscle Shoals Studio in Sheffield Alabama has to close due to lack of business. We've all heard music that was recorded there by acts such as the Rolling Stones, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bob Dylan and others
2006 The Rolling Stones have a free concert in Buenos Aires, Argentina. 20 people are injured as the crowd becomes a little rowdy

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Wednesday, February 23 JOHN WAITE 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Monday, February 28 AARON LEWIS of STAIND 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Tuesday, February 22, 2011

February 22, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
AEROSMITH...Aerosmith (1973)
(CD, Allmusic review)

Another debut, in this case Aerosmith, which hit number 21 on the U.S. Billboard chart. For today I wanted to have a debut by a well known band that I personally had never heard so I started with the A's and I could not believe that the second band I looked at I had never heard their entire debut, and Aerosmith of all bands. I am so familiar with nearly all of their albums but yet this one somehow had escaped me. Imagine my delight as I got to hear some new tracks from Aerosmith that were released 38 years ago. It was a nice listen, I enjoyed it, a lot. Their influences are all over the place on this record: Beatles, Zep, Stones. Of course, we've all heard their classic "Dream On", most of you will know "Mama Kin" (great jam), and I also enjoyed "Walkin' The Dog" (originally by Rufus Thomas). I do have one complaint...the album cover just strikes me wrong, I don't know why, just looks terrible. Other than that I recommend you go to a brick and mortar record store today, buy it, and enjoy


ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 22
Scott Phillips of Creed and Alter Bridge is 38;

ON THIS DATE

1963 Northern Music Publishing Company is formed by the Beatles
1965 The Beatles leave for the Bahamas to begin filming Help!
1967 "A Day In The Life" is finished by the Beatles, which would appear 4 months later on Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
1978 Sid Vicious is arrested in new York for drug possession
1989 At the 31st Grammy's: Jethro Tull beats out Metallica for Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance Vocal or Instrumental
2005 It is announced that Brian "Head" Welch has left KoRn. Welch had recently became a Christian
2007 It is announced that Ryan Yerdon is the new drummer for Puddle Of Mudd

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Wednesday, February 23 JOHN WAITE 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Monday, February 28 AARON LEWIS of STAIND 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Does your local rock station carry Rockline? Find out here

Monday, February 21, 2011

February 21, 2011


The ALBUM OF THE DAY
GUNS 'N' ROSES...Greatest Hits (2004)
(CD, Allmusic review)

As I was listening to this I actually became sad. Don't get me wrong...the sounds coming out of the CD were still rocking, after all these years. The sadness came from realizing that this band has (or had) the potential to be one of the greatest bands ever. In this package, which reached number 3 on the U.S. Billboard charts, has all the proof you need. Great musicianship, great vocals, and great songs. But they have egos and personalities that spoiled everything. All the biggies from GNR are here, and that includes 5 covers: "Knockin' On Heavens Door" (Bob Dylan), "Live And Let Die" (Paul McCartney and Wings), "Ain't It Fun" (The Dead Boys), "Since I Don't Have You" (The Skyliners) and "Sympathy For The Devil" (The Rolling Stones). This is a good compilation so check it out, it's recommended.


ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 21
Jerry Harrison from the Talking Heads is 62; Michael Ward of the Wallflowers is 44; Eric Wilson from Sublime is 41; Tad Kinchla from Blues Traveler is 38;

ON THIS DATE
1951 Vince Welnick of the Tubes and the Grateful Dead is born in Phoenix, Arizona. Welnick died in 2006
1968 The rights for Hunter Davies' authorized biography of the Beatles is given to McGraw-Hill Publishing
1990 Bonnie Raitt wins big at the Grammys, Album of the Year (“Nick Of Time”), Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female (“Nick Of Time”), Best Rock Vocal Performance, Female (“Nick Of Time”)
2001 At the Grammy's: Steely Dan wins Album Of The Year and Best Pop Vocal Album for Two Against Nature, Record Of The Year, Song Of The Year and Best Rock performance go to "Beautiful Day" by U2
2006 Kid Rock files a lawsuit in Detroit seeking to halt the sale and distribution of a '99 videotape featuring him and Scott Stapp of Creed engaging in sex acts with four women
2007 Danny Carey, drummer for Tool, undergoes surgery for a torn bicep

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 21 10 YEARS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, February 23 JOHN WAITE 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Sunday, February 20, 2011

February 20, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
AC/DC...T.N.T. (1975)
(CD, Allmusic review)

Their second album released in Australia in 1975. For some reason I always thought this was their debut but it is not. High Voltage was their first record, but T.N.T. is a rather impressive follow up. It has all the elements we expect from AC/DC: power chords, thundering bass and drums, and good catchy songs sung by their crazy lead singer, in this case Bon Scott. It was 31 years ago today that Scott's body was found so I wanted to pay tribute to him with making this the AOTD. "Can I Sit Next To You Girl" has always been my favorite on this one. They do a great cover version of the old Chuck Berry classic "School Days" and the slow bluesy and ballsy "The Jack" are only just a few highlights. The album in this formation was only released in Australia so there was no chart action for it in the U.S. All the songs were released in some other way internationally, but I recommend you check this record out the way it was originally done. Highly recommended


ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 20
J. Geils is 65; Walter Becker from Steely Dan is 61; Jon Brant, formerly with Cheap Trick, is 57; Ian Brown of the Stone Roses is 48;

ON THIS DATE
1967 Kurt Donald Cobain from Nirvana was born.
1976 Kiss embedded their platform boots into wet cement outside Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood
1980 Ronald Belford Scott of AC/DC is pronounced dead
In 2003 A fire broke out during a rock concert at The Station nightclub in West Warwick, Rhode Island killing 100 people and injuring about 200 others. Great White was performing that night. Ty Longley from the band was one of the 100 to die
2007 Dave Navarro, formerly with Jane's Addicition and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, has has divorced finalized from Carmen Electra
2008 Devon Townsend receives a 2 year sentence behind bars. She is found guilty of harrassing Chester Bennington of Linkin Park and his wife

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 21 10 YEARS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, February 23 JOHN WAITE 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Saturday, February 19, 2011

February 19, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
THE BEATLES...Love (2006)
(CD/DVD, vinyl, Allmusic review)

Originally released in 2006, it was recently released in iTunes with two extra tracks so now Love has reentered the U.S. Billboard charts at #37. A Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas was first brought up by George Harrison. One thing led to another and now a show was created. The music was given a new treatment by Giles Martin, son of Beatles producer George Martin. The result ended up being so much more pleasant than you would have thought. Classic tracks mixed together and given the mashed-up treatment. The album has been given mixed reviews by critics and fans alike, as if to say "how dare you tamper with the holy grail!" This fan says "Nice job, fellas." The best was to listen to this album is to buy the CD/DVD edition and play the DVD on a 5.1 surround system. A very nice experience. The demo tape of "While My Guitar gently Weeps" was originally released on Anthology III in 1996 and is included on this set, but with a new orchestral recording accompanying it. That track alone is worth the price you pay, it is that phenomenal. I recommend this one, and if you're a skeptical Beatles fan try it, you may be surprised


ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 19
Tony Iommi from Black Sabbath and Heaven and Hell is 63; Mark Andes from Heart is 62; Jon Fishman of Phish is 46; Daniel Adair from Nickelback is 36;

ON THIS DATE
1974 Kiss appear on Don Kirshner's Rock Concert

1980 Bon Scott from AC/DC goes out drinking on the town with friends. This is the night that Scott would end up passed out in a car and found unconscious the next day. Doctors were unable to help him
1996 Oasis win a couple of awards at the BRIT Awards in London for Best Video ("Wonderwall") and Best Album (“(What’s The Story) Morning Glory?”). During one of the acceptance speechs they refer to record industry folks as "Corporate pigs"
2009 Kelly Groucutt, formerly with Electric Light Orchestra, dies in Worcester, Worcestershire, England. Groucutt was 63

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 21 10 YEARS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, February 23 JOHN WAITE 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Friday, February 18, 2011

February 18, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
RUSH...Rush (1974)
(CD, Allmusic review)

Another debut album as the AOTD, this one from Rush released in 1974 and only reached #105 on the U.S. Billboard album chart. If you are familiar and love their more popular albums but have never heard this record you might be surprised. First, it sounds nothing, and I do mean nothing like 2112 or Moving Pictures. Second, Neil Peart is not the drummer here. Peart is also their lyricist now. John Rutsey was the skinman here, so the lyrical content is fanatically different as Geddy Lee sings about love, telling us he's "In The Mood". That kind of song disappeared once Neil entered the picture. Third, though you may be surprised by the record that doesn't mean it's not any good. On the contrary, it ROCKS!!! "Working Man" and "Finding My Way" are great tracks. "Here Again" is an excellent slow bluesy-type sounding track that I can really get into. For Rush and rock 'n' roll fans I recommend it, it's another very cool debut record



ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 18
Dennis DeYoung, formerly with Styx, is 64; Robbie Bachman, formerly with Bachman-Turner Overdrive, is 58; Larry Rust, formerly with Iron Butterfly, is 58;

ON THIS DATE:
1968 David Gilmour becomes the guitarist for Pink Floyd, replacing Syd Barrett
1974 Kiss by Kiss is released
1980 Bill Wyman announces he will be leaving the Rolling Stones. However, he doesn't do it until 1992
1995 Bob Stinson from the Replacements passes away in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Stinson was 35

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 21 10 YEARS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, February 23 JOHN WAITE 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Thursday, February 17, 2011

February 17, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
SOCIAL DISTORTION...Hard Times And Nursery Rhymes (2011)
(CD, vinyl, Allmusic review)

Social Distortion has been around for a long time but I have never really paid much attention to them. So I decided that since they just recently released this album I would check it out. I got my copy, put it on and was quite surprised. They're a good little rock n' roll band, just writing some catchy tunes and delivering them with a in-your-face sound. They're not a metal band, but they're harder than, say, the Stones. I guess a similar band would be the Dead Kennedys. Hard Times And Nursery Rhymes starts off with a blistering instrumental "Road Zombie", and I also liked "California (Hustle And Flow)" and "Machine Gun Blues". This record is not going to blow you away but it is fun and I'm certainly glad I listened to it and now I can say "Yes, I like Social Distortion". Check it out, I recommend it.


Check out the Top 10 Rock Genre CD's/LP's/Downloads For This Week

ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 17
Timothy J. Mahoney of 311 is 41; Billie Joe Armstrong from Green Day is 39;

ON THIS DATE
1960 Rge Everly Brothers sign a $1 million - ten year contact with Warner Brothers Records
1972 Pink Floyd perform the Dark Side Of The Moon album in a concert in London. The album would not be released for another year
1973 In Hollywood, Florida Free performs their final concert
1975 Rock And Roll by John Lennon is released
1976 Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975 by the Eagles is released. It is currently the second highest selling album of all time in America
1990 Aerosmith appear on "Saturday Night Live" in a "Wayne's World" skit

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 21 10 YEARS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, February 23 JOHN WAITE 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Check out today's album of the day also in the Vintage Vinyl Vault

February 16, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
LED ZEPPELIN...Presence (1976)
(CD, vinyl, Allmusic review)

What can I say about this Led Zeppelin classic that you may not already know. It went to number 1 on the U.S. Billboard album chart, and it has 7 great tracks. I'm not sure which ones I would call the highlights. Four of the tracks are long, 'Achilles Last Stand' is nearly 10 minutes in length, and 'Nobody's Fault But Mine' is a great classic rocker. 'Tea For One' closes out the record in a slowed down, bluesy track and it clocks in at nine and half minutes. The lyrics describe time moving slowly and the track fits perfectly with the subject matter as it kinda drones and is a fun listen. Of course, it is recommended, what Zeppelin album wouldn't be



ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 16

Andy Taylor from Duran Duran is 50; Dave Lombardo from Slayer is 46; Taylor Hawkins from the Foo Fighters is 39;

ON THIS DATE

1975 Lou Reed gets hit with a brick while a political group tries to stop his concert and police use tear gas
1993 At the 12th annual BRIT Awards in London Nirvana is given the award for Best International Newcomer
2005 In London Jimi Hendrix memorabilia go on auction. A 1965 Fender Stratocaster owned by Jimi goes for $190,000
2005 An arrest warrant is issued for Kid Rock after he allegedly punched a DJ at a strip bar. Rock turns himself in to Nashville police and is charged with misdemeanor simple assault and released after posting a $3,000 bond
2006 Elton John wins a libel case he filed against London's Sunday Times newspaper over an article it ran claiming that he exhibited rude behavior at an '05 charity ball
2007 Ian Astbury leaves Riders On The Storm, the band formed by Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Wednesday, February 16 STEVIE NICKS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Monday, February 21 10 YEARS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Tuesday, February 15, 2011

1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die #159. The Temptations - Cloud Nine (1969)


159. The Temptations - Cloud Nine (1969)

Label – Motown
Producer – Norman Whitfield
Art Direction – Ken Kim
Nationality – USA
Running Time – 34:41

Track Listing (standout tracks listed in bold)

1. Cloud 9
2. I Heard It Through The Grapevine
3. Runaway Child Running Wild
4. Love Is A Hurtin' Thing
5. Hey Girl (I Like Your Style)
6. Why Did She Have To Leave Me (Why Did She Have To Go)
7. I Need Your Lovin'
8. Don't Let Him Take Your Love From Me
9. I Gotta Find A Way (To Get You Back)
10. Gonna Keep On Tryin' Till I Win Your Love

I admit, never been much of a Temptations fan, and other then the ‘classic’ tracks by them I am not familiar with any other of their recorded output. This record couldn’t be more different than the last several records reviewed. (Led Zeppelin, MC5).
I went in expecting to hear a great soul record, but turns out, this is the record that they decided to change up their sound, and entered what is reffered to as their “psychedelic soul" period.
I was not blown away by this record, but I didn’t despise it either. It lays somewhere in between. What’s good is REALLY good (Hey Girl) and what’s bad is REALLY bad (Love Is A Hurtin’ Thing).
You can tell right from the start of the title track, complete with a funky soul and it’s psychedelic frenzy this was going to be very different than what I had expected. I can only imagine it did the same to their fans back in 1969 when the record was first released.
There is a nine minute track (Run Away Child, Running Wild) that while has a nice groove, went on way too long.
Not surprisingly, the best tracks – the already mentioned “Hey Girl” along with “ I Need Your Lovin’” – are in the classic ‘business as usual’ Temptations style. It these wildly different styles of music that make this an uneven effort and the record has an odd flow about it.
It was well received, and the album went to number four on the Billboard Pop Albums Chart and the group received their first Grammy Award in 1969. "Cloud Nine" was a number six hit on the US pop singles chart, and a number two hit on the US R&B singles chart, and won Motown Records its first Grammy Award, for Best Rhythm & Blues Group Performance, Vocal or Instrumental. The album's second single, and edited version of "Run Away Child, Running Wild", was a number-one hit on the US R&B singles chart, and a number six hit on the US pop chart.

It is recommended, with caution.

February 15, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
ROD STEWART...The Rod Stewart Album (1969)
(CD, Allmusic Review)

Two days ago I mentioned that I wanted to keep having debut albums as the AOTD for a little while, and then yesterday I mentioned I wished Rod would do some more rock albums, so today I had to dig this one out. It had been a very long time since I played this record, and it was much better than I remembered. This Rod Stewart solo debut album reached number 139 on the U.S. Billboard charts. Here is Stewart young, vibrant, being a rocker, giving us a bare rock 'n'roll album, using drums, bass, guitar, piano and organ (no synths used here) and that familiar voice. The highlights for me are his version of the Rolling Stones "Street Fighting Man", the beautiful "Handbags And Gladrags" and "An Old Raincoat Won't Ever Let You Down". This isn't the beginning of RS's career but a good start to his solo recordings. Check this one out, I recommend it


Check out What We're Listening To This Week

ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 15
Mick Avory from The Kinks is 67; John Helliwell from Supertramp is 67; Stevie Benton from Drowning Pool is 40; Brandon Boyd from Incubus is 35;

ON THIS DATE
1947 David Brown, who was a member of Santana twice, is born. Brown died in 2000
1977 Rumours by Fleetwood Mac is released
1998 The Rolling Stones wrap up their Bridges To Babylon tour in Las Vegas
2006 The National Trust heritage organization declares the gravesite of Bon Scott of AC/DC in Fremantle, Australia a historic site
2007 It is announced that Audioslave has officially called it quits
2008 Don Henley of the Eagles and his wife donate $4,000 a piece to Lt. Gov. Beverly Perdue of North Carolina, who is running for governor. Her rival, Richard Moore, holds a press conference apologizing for using "Life In The Fast Lane" in commercials without permission

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Wednesday, February 16 STEVIE NICKS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Monday, February 21 10 YEARS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Monday, February 14, 2011

February 14, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
ROD STEWART...The Best Of... The Great American Songbook (2011)
(CD, Allmusic Review)

This album is currently number 49 on the U.S. Billboard chart. There are two sides to this review. First: this is not a rock 'n' roll CD at all. In fact, Stewart has released 5 American pop standards albums now. This CD takes the best from those 5 and gathers them together. The songs are classic, they are well done with Rod's gravely vocals. The highlights are "You'll Never Know" (the only new track here), "What A Wonderful World" and "Someone To Watch Over Me". With that in mind I recommend it. Second: Where's the rock 'n' roll? The last true rock record from RS came in 1998 (When We Were The New Boys), but the last great record came in 1981 (Tonight I'm Yours). C'mon, Rod, let's rock, or are those days over?


53rd GRAMMYS ROCK GENRE WINNERS
ALBUM OF THE YEAR...The Suburbs by Arcade Fire, Arcade Fire & Markus Dravs, producers; Arcade Fire, Markus Dravs, Mark Lawson & Craig Silvey, engineers/mixers; George Marino, mastering engineer
BEST POP INSTRUMENTAL PERFORMANCE...Nessun Dorma by Jeff Beck, Track from: Emotion & Commotion
BEST SOLO ROCK VOCAL PERFORMANCE...Helter Skelter BY Paul McCartney, Track from: Good Evening New York City
BEST HARD ROCK PERFORMANCE...New Fang by Them Crooked Vultures, Track from: Them Crooked Vultures
BEST METAL PERFORMANCE...El Dorado by Iron Maiden, Track from: The Final Frontier
BEST ROCK INSTRUMENTAL PERFORMANCE...Hammerhead by Jeff Beck, Track from: Emotion & Commotion
BEST ROCK SONG...Angry World by Neil Young, songwriter (Neil Young), Track from: Le Noise
BEST ROCK ALBUM...The Resistance by Muse
BEST TRADITIONAL BLUES ALBUM...Joined At The Hip by Pinetop Perkins & Willie 'Big Eyes' Smith
BEST CONTEMPORARY BLUES ALBUM...Living Proof by Buddy Guy
BEST HISTORICAL ALBUM...The Beatles (The Original Studio Recordings), Jeff Jones & Allan Rouse, compilation producers; Paul Hicks, Sean Magee, Guy Massey, Sam Okell & Steve Rooke, mastering engineers (The Beatles)
BEST LONG FORM MUSIC VIDEO...When You're Strange (The Doors), Tom Dicillo, video director; John Beug, Jeff Jampol, Peter Jankowski & Dick Wolf, video producers

ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 14
Roger Fisher from Heart is 61; Ricky Wolking from The Nixons is 45; Rob Thomas from Matchbox Twenty is 39;

ON THIS DATE
1970 The Who perform at Leeds University in Leeds, West Yorkshire in the UK. This turns out to be the Live At Leeds album, which totally will ROCK your butt off!!!
1972 John Lennon and Yoko Ono begin a week long stint as co-host of The Mike Dougles Show. An interesting week, indeed
1984 Aerosmith performs in Boston. In attendance were original members Joe Perry and Brad Whitford. They rejoin the group after meeting the band backstage after the show
2008 An ex member of Boston, Barry Goudreau, had been performing the Boston classic "More Than A Feeling" at rallies for Republican presidential hopeful Mike Huckabee. Tom Scholtz sends Huckabee a letter asking him to stop using "something of mine and using it to promote ideas to which I am opposed"
2010 Doug Fieger of the Knack died in Woodland Hills, California. Fieger was 57

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 14 THE GRACIOUS FEW 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, February 16 STEVIE NICKS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Sunday, February 13, 2011

February 13, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
THE EAGLES...The Eagles (1972)
(CD, Allmusic review)

The debut album from the Eagles reached number 22 on the U.S. Billboard album charts. This is where it started for a band from southern California. This record touches on rock 'n' roll, country, even a little folk music. I've always liked this album, although their best stuff was still yet to come, even though I've always disliked "Witchy Woman". The other 2 singles, "Take It easy" and "Peaceful Easy Feeling" plus "Most Of Us Are Sad" are the highlights. The guys offered some good songwriting here, along with some catchy tunes, nice vocals and harmonies. I recommend it. Notice that I have been making debut albums as the AOTD...I think I will continue this for a little while.



ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 13
Peter Tork from The Monkees is 69; Peter Gabriel is 61; Ed Gagliardi, formerly with Foreigner, is 59; Henry Rollins is 50; Todd Harrell from 3 Doors Down is 39;

ON THIS DATE
1955 Elvis Presley performs in Lubbock, Texas. Buddy and Bob open for Elvis. The Buddy is, yes, you guessed it, none other than Buddy Holly himself
1970 Black Sabbath release the debut album Black Sabbath
1972 Government officials in Singapore refuse to let Led Zeppelin off of their plane simply because their hair was to long
1982 Police find the stolen gravestone belonging to Ronnie Van Zant of Lynyrd Skynyrd in a dry river bed
2005 The Grammy Hall Of Fame inducts Let It Bleed by the Rolling Stones. The 47th Grammys award U2 with the Best Rock Song for 'Vertigo', Best Rock Album goes to Green Day for American Idiot, Best Hard Rock performance-Velvet Revolver for 'Slither'. In the meantime Slash has his tophat stolen that he had worn for 15 years
2006 It is announced that Brett Scallions has left Fuel

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 14 THE GRACIOUS FEW 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, February 16 STEVIE NICKS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Does your local rock station carry Rockline? Find out here

Saturday, February 12, 2011

February 12, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
RED...Until We Have Faces (2011)
(CD, Allmusic review)

When I saw that a Christian rock band currently is at number 2 on the U.S. Billboard album charts I knew I wanted to check it out. Red has had some success on alternative and mainstream rock stations and I was already familiar with them so I knew that some of this album would be pretty hardcore metal, and it is. On some of the tracks Michael Barnes just shreds his vocal chords. But the whole CD is not like that. In fact, the highlights for me are the "calmer" tracks, like "Not Alone", "Best Is Yet To Come" and the incredibly beautiful track "Hymn For The Missing". While listening to that track I was wishing the whole album was like that. If you like bands like Sevendust or Slipknot you'll like the majority of this album, so with that in mind I recommend it. If that's not your cup of tea you may want to stay away from this one. I'm glad to see a Christian rock band doing so well


ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 12
Ray Manzarek from The Doors is 72; Steve Hackett, formerly with Genesis, is 61; Michael McDonald is 59; Jim Creeggan of the Barenaked Ladies is 41;

ON THIS DATE
1967 Keith Richard becomes the third member of the Rolling Stones to be arrested for “various substances of suspicious nature.”
1968 Jimi Hendrix receives the key to the city in his hometown of Seattle, Washington
1988 Axl Rose walks off the stage in Phoenix, Arizona at a concert where Guns 'N' Roses were the opening act for David Lee Roth. The rest of the shows with DLR are cancelled
1997 David Bowie receives a star on Hollywood`s Walk Of Fame
2005 Led Zeppelin, Janis Joplin and Jerry Lee Lewis receive the Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award the day before the Grammys.
2007 Heaven And Hell announce that Vinny Appice will be their drummer instead of Bill Ward

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 14 THE GRACIOUS FEW 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, February 16 STEVIE NICKS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Does your local rock station carry Rockline? Find out here

Friday, February 11, 2011

1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die #158. MC5 - Kick Out The Jams (1969)


158. MC5 - Kick Out The Jams (1969)

Label – Elektra
Producer – Bruce Botnick and Jac Holzman
Art Direction – William S. Harvey
Nationality – USA
Running Time – 36:17

Track Listing (standout tracks listed in bold)

1. Ramblin' Rose
2. Kick Out The Jams
3. Come Together
4. Rocket Reducer No 62
5. Borderline
6. Motor City Is Burning
7. I Want You Right Now
8. Starship

“Kick Out the Jams” is the debut album by Detroit’s MC5. The decision was made that a studio record could not adequately capture there sound and energy, so it was recorded live at Detroit's Grande Ballroom over two nights of Halloween 1968.
This is in all actually a tedious record to listen to. First of all Brother J.C. Crawford's rambling introductions while entertaining to a point, get old quickly and Rob Tyner's ‘singing’ voice has a lot to be desired. Their material also isn’t that great and the playing is ragged, many times out of tune and really rough. That said, this record is more about attitude and power – easily ranks up there as likely the most energetic live album ever made, refuses to be played quietly and simply MUST be heard.
There is of course the classic "Kick Out the Jams" with the controversial opening “kick out the jams mother f%$kers” that garnered most of the attention upon release, and actually cause the record to be banned from many retail stores, and eventually led to the band being dropped by Elektra records. This track is their lasting statement, and has inspired a ton of cover versions over the years. (Blue Öyster Cult’s version on their 1978 live album ‘Some Enchanted Evening’ comes immediately to mind).
The LP peaked at #30 on the Billboard album charts with and edited version of the title track peaking at #82 in the Hot 100. In 2003, the album was ranked number 294 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. (Funnily enough, original Rolling Stone legendary reviewer Lester Bangs didn’t like the record at all calling it "ridiculous, overbearing, and pretentious") In March 2005, Q magazine placed the song "Kick Out the Jams" at number 39 in its list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Tracks. The same track was named the 65th-best hard rock song of all time by VH1.
It is recommended – with caution.


You can purchase the CD here or the vinyl here

February 11, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
THE WHO...The Who Sings My Generation (1965)
(CD, vinyl, Allmusic review)

The first album from the Who, released in 1965 in the U.K., in the U.S. in 1966. It didn't even chart in the U.S. Billboard chart, and my question is WHY NOT?!!! There has been a deluxe edition CD released which is a 2 disc collection of the album, current singles, different versions, etc. I reviewed the original American release (as the track listing does differ some from the UK version). I've never payed much attention to this record but now I wish I had. It's was apparent already how talented this band is. Keith Moon's drumming on this record is so much fun to listen to. He was definitely by far the most impressive drummer of the 60's. Pete Townshend's powerful guitar was just the beginning of what he was to offer in the years to come. John Entwistle and his ability to bring the bass guitar right into your face with Keith and Pete right beside him is more than impressive, it's explosive and deliberate. With these 3 guys being so powerful together and on their own the band HAD to have an amazing singer. They got lucky with having Roger Daltry on the same stage. Having said all that...let's talk about this release. Highlights are the instrumental "The Ox", the most famous track "My Generation" and "A Legal Matter" (I've always loved the lyrics for some reason). If you've ever enjoyed listening to the 'popular' Who tracks check this one out. It's a significant release, a look into how the band started musically and is just a good rock 'n' roll album. Highly recommended, for sure!


ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 11
David Uosikkinen from the Hooters is 55; Sheryl Crow is 49; Mike Shinoda from Linkin Park is 34;

ON THIS DATE

1935 Gene Vincent is born in Munden Point,Virginia. Vincent died in 1971
1963 The Beatles record their debut album Please Please Me in one day.
1964 The Beatles play their first concert in America in Washington, D.C.
2004 An attorney for Courtney Love tells a judge that it is because of a security issue that she cannot appear in court for a pretrial hearing concerning felony charges that she was in illegal possession of two painkillers
2006 Scott Stapp of Creed is arrested at the Los Angeles International Airport for alleged public intoxication. Stapp had gotten married the day before. The charges are later dismissed
2007 At the Grammys the Red Hot Chili Peppers win 4, including Best Rock Album ("Stadium Arcadium") and Best Rock Song ("Dani California"), Bob Dylan wins in the Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance and Best Contemporary Folk/Americana Album, Bruce Springsteen wins the Best Traditional Folk Album and Best Long Form Music Video
2008 Lenny Kravitz has severe symptoms of bronchitis, therefore he is admitted to a hospital in Miami Beach, Florida

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 14 THE GRACIOUS FEW 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, February 16 STEVIE NICKS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Thursday, February 10, 2011

Check out our new VINTAGE VINYL VAULT page.

1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die #157. Led Zeppelin - Led Zeppelin II (1969)


157. Led Zeppelin - Led Zeppelin II (1969)

Label – Atlantic
Producer – Jimmy Page
Art Direction – David Juniper
Nationality – UK
Running Time – 41:21

Track Listing (standout tracks listed in bold)

1. Whole Lotta Love
2. What Is And What Should Never Be
3. Lemon Song
4. Thank You
5. Heartbreaker
6. Livin' Lovin' Maid (She's Just a Woman)
7. Ramble On
8. Moby Dick
9. Bring It On Home

This was Led Zeppelin’s second album unleashed onto the world in October of 1969. Proof positive that the debut record was no fluke, they upped the anti with this effort big time. Chock full of blues and folk music, it also highlights the band's changing musical style of blues-derived material mixed in with guitar power riffage based songs. It is commonly know as the heaviest of all of Led Zeppelin’s records. The overall sound of the album IS heavy and hard, brutal, direct and to the point.
It was quickly recorded in between bouts of touring in the US and UK. Most of the tracks are re-worked blues and rock tracks that were being featured in the bands live set lists.
The songs "Whole Lotta Love," "The Lemon Song," and "Bring It on Home" are all rooted in classic blues songs.
Upon release, the album was a HUGE seller and reached number one in both the United Kingdom and United States. On 15 November 1999, it was certified 12x platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for sales in excess of 12 million copies. "Whole Lotta Love" was released as a single and reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 in January 1970.
Since it was released, “Led Zeppelin II” has been acknowledged as one of the most influential albums in all of rock music. .In 1989, Spin magazine ranked the album number 5 on its list of The 25 Greatest Albums of All Time. In 2000, Q magazine placed Led Zeppelin II at number 37 in its list of the 100 Greatest British Albums Ever. In 2003, the album was ranked number 75 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. It is of course HIGHLY recommended.


You can purchase the CD here or vinyl here

February 10, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
GREGG ALLMAN...Low Country Blues (2011)
(CD, vinyl, Allmusic review)

One of the reasons I decided to check this album out was because I read that T-Bone Burnett was the producer. He was the producer of Raising Sand by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss and No Better Than This by John Mellencamp.. Both of those are great records. This is, also, a great record. There are so many genres touched on in this work: the blues, country, southern rock, 50's rock, jazz, soul. There are 11 covers on the album, and the one track penned by Allman and Warren Haynes (of the Allman Brothers) fits in perfectly. Other highlights include "I Can't Be Satisfied" (originally by Muddy Waters), "Tears, Tears, Tears" (originally by Amos Milburn) and "Blind Man" (originally by Bobby Bland). This album reached number 5 on the U.S. Billboard charts and i definitely recommend it, it was a very good listen.


Check out the Top 10 Rock Genre CD's/LP's/Downloads for this week here

ON THIS DATE
1969 The Beatles company "Apple" takes control of all of their business affairs
1978 Van Halen release their debut album Van Halen
1979 Rod Stewart is at number one on the Billboard Pop Singles chart with "Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?"
2004 Lucky by Melissa Etheridge is released
2005 ZZ Top, along with Kid Rock, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Dickie Betts perform in West Hollywood at the Jam Sessions Concert, where proceeds benefit the VH1 Save The Music Foundation
2005 Mick Mars from Motley Crue is sued for $10 million by an ex girlfriend claiming Mars promised to support her throughout her life but hasn't
2006 At the Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy Yoko Ono took to the stage making a plea for peace, and afterwards Peter Gabriel performs John Lennon's "Imagine"
2006 Scott Stapp from Creed marries former Miss New York, Jaclyn Nesheiwat
2006 It is announced that James LoMenzo is the new bassist for Megadeth
2008 At the 50th Grammy Awards The Foo Fighters won Best Hard Rock performance for "The Pretender" and Best Rock Album for "Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace", Solo Rock Vocal Performance and Rock Song went to Bruce Springsteen for "Radio Nowhere", Best Compilation Soundtrack Album For Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media went to the Beatles for "Love" and the Eagles won Best Country Performance By A Duo or Group With Vocal for "How Long"

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 14 THE GRACIOUS FEW 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, February 16 STEVIE NICKS 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Wednesday, February 9, 2011

February 9, 2011

THE ALBUM OF THE DAY
PAUL McCARTNEY AND WINGS...Wings At The Speed Of Sound (1976)
(CD, vinyl, Allmusic review)

This was Paul McCartney's 5th number 1 album since leaving the Beatles in 1970. Paul was having a great career with his band Wings, and all he was doing was singing "Silly Love Songs", which was his 5th number 1 single as a solo artist (or with Wings). But what's wrong with that? Nothing, as this album is a great listen. It also includes the number 3 single "Let 'Em In". Other highlights: "The Note You never Wrote", the rocker "Beware My Love" (it jams, folks!) and "Time To Hide". If you're a McCartney/Beatles/pop rock/70's fan you will enjoy this record. It is highly recommended. The CD has 3 extra tracks


ON THIS DATE
1961 The Beatles (with Stu Sutcliffe and Pete Best) first performed at the Cavern Club in Liverpool, England
1964 The Beatles appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show.

1981 Bill Haley dies of a brain tumor at the age of 55
2005 Roger Daltry of the Who is given the honor of "Commander of the British Empire"
2005 A Los Angeles court rules that Nikki Sixx of Motley Crue is entitled to $600,000 from a shoe company for using his likeness in a magazine ad without permission
2006 Paul Stanley of Kiss appears at a New Jersey Gallery to promote exhibitions of his artwork
2007 During Grammy Week in Los Angeles Don Henley of the Eagles is named the 2007 MusiCares Person of the Year

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Wednesday, February 9 ROD STEWART 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Monday, February 14 THE GRACIOUS FEW 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Tuesday, February 8, 2011

February 8, 2011

THE ALBUM OF THE DAY
GARY MOORE...Still Got The Blues (1990)
(CD, Allmusic review)

Unfortunately, Gary Moore passed away on Sunday. That prompted me to have one of his albums as the Album Of The Day. I had never heard any of his albums all the way through so I decided I would check out his most popular solo album, which was Still Got The Blues, released in 1990. It only hit number 83 on the U.S. Billboard album charts. Moore was more popular in the U.K. than in America, but the ex-Thin Lizzy guitar master recorded a fun blues album here. The 12 song CD showcases his guitar talents in each song. I was already familiar with the title track, which is a scorching slow blues. Other highlights were "King Of The Blues", "As The Years Go Passing By" and "Midnight Blues". It even includes the George Harrison penned "That Kind Of Woman", which was a delight to hear. If you've never listened to Gary before check this one out if you're into blues rock. It's impressive, it rocks, and is recommended


Check out What We're Listening To This Week

ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 8
Vince Neil from Motley Crue is 50; Keith Nelson of Buckcherry is 42; Phoenix from Linkin Park is 34; Jeremy Davis of Paramore is 26;

ON THIS DATE
1969 Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker (both formerly of Cream), Traffic’s Steve Winwood and bassist Rick Grech announce the formation of Traffic
1980 David Bowie and Angela Bowie are divorced after 10 years of marriage
1988 The Who receive the Outstanding Contribution to British Music honor at the BPI Awards in London
1990 Del Shannon commited suicide. He was 55
2004 At the 46th Grammy's: Best New Artist and Best Hard Rock Performance-Evanescence. Best Rock Album-Foo Fighters. Best Metal performance-Metallica
2005 Keith Knudsen, drummer for the Doobie Brothers, dies due to complications with penmonia. He was 56
2005 Seventeen Days by 3 Doors Down is released
2006 At The 48th Grammy's: Album of the Year and Song of the Year-U2. Record of the Year - "Boulevard Of Broken Dreams" by Green Day, Best Hard Rock Performance-System Of A Down, Best Metal Performance-Slipknot. Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan and Dire Straits also get trophies
2009 At the 51st Grammy's: Robert Plant and Alison Krauss won five Grammys, including Album of the Year, for "Raising Sand". Best Rock Song-"Girls In Their Summer Clothes" Bruce Springsteen
2010 Ringo Starr gets a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
2010 Max Weinberg of the E Street Band undergoes open heart surgery

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Wednesday, February 9 ROD STEWART 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Monday, February 14 THE GRACIOUS FEW 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
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Monday, February 7, 2011

February 7, 2011

The ALBUM OF THE DAY
THE ROLLING STONES...England's Newest Hit Makers (1964)
(CD, vinyl, Allmusic review)

Wow, I bet 1964 was a magnificent year to be alive (I was born in '64 so I don't know) because first it was The Beatles, and then here came the Rolling Stones. This is the first U.S. release of the Stones and it reached number 11 on the U.S. Billboard charts. There are 3 reasons that this record is worth checking out. First: it's historical significance. This is the beginning, the original band who are just barely men. Second: look at the cover. Here are the Stones at the youngest we ever knew them. Bill Wyman (center) looks like he's ready to hurt someone, thus the beginning of their bad boy image that follows them today. Third: the music. It's raw, energetic, youthful! It's rock 'n roll, it's the blues, it's the 60's. There is only 1 track ("Tell Me") included here that Mick Jaggr and Keith Richard penned. The rest are all covers of their musical heroes, with highlights including "Not Fade Away" (originally Buddy Holly), "I Just Want To Make Love To You" (originally Willie Dixon) and "I'm A King Bee' (originally Slim Harpo). The boys would in years to come write and record some of the greatest songs in rock history. That's why it would be important to check out the beginnings and the roots of the Rolling Stones. This album is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED


ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 7
David Bryan from Bon Jovi is 49; Wes Borland of Limp Bizkit is 36;

ON THIS DATE

1964 The Beatles began their first American tour as they arrived at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport

1971 Tom Fogerty leaves Creedence Clearwater Revival
1980 Pink Floyd play the first show of their 2 city tour for 'The Wall' in Los Angeles
2006 Cream and David Bowie receive the Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award
2008 The Rolling Stone's documentary 'Shine A Light' directed by Matin Scorsese premieres at the Berlin International Film Festival, which Scorsese and the band attend
2008 Mel Galley, formerly with Whitesnake, announces he has terminal cancer. Galley died July 1, 2008
2010 The Who perform at halftime at Super Bowl XLIV

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 7 SEVENDUST 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, February 9 ROD STEWART 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Does your local rock station carry Rockline? Find out here
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Sunday, February 6, 2011

February 6, 2011

R.I.P. Gary Moore

THE ALBUM OF THE DAY

HEART...Red Velvet Car (2010)
(CD, Allmusic review)

What a delight it was listening to this CD. Red Velvet Car was released last year and it reached number 10 on the U.S. Billboard album chart. It should have gotten higher, as Ann and Nancy Wilson turned out another fabulous record. Heart IS the main reason that I wish there were more female rockers out there. On this album the girls showcase all their musical talents, demonstrated on their Led Zeppelin influenced rockers ("WTF", "Wheels" and "Death Valley") and also on their softer sounding tracks ("Hey You" is phenomenal). This album doesn't have the 80's sounding Heart, it's more closer to the 70's Heart, but don't expect to find a "Barracuda" on this one. These 10 tracks are the girls in the 2000's, and it was a very enjoyable listen. I will highly recommend this one


ROCK BIRTHDAYS FOR FEBRUARY 6

Simon Phillips from Toto is 54; Axl Rose from Guns N' Roses is 49;

ON THIS DATE

1946 Richie Hayward of Little Feat was born in Clear Lake, Iowa. Hayward died in 2010
1982 Van Halen's remake of "Oh, Pretty Woman" peaks on the Billboard Pop Singles chart at number 12
1990 Billy Idol runs a stop sign while riding his motorcycle, smashing into a car, fracturing his wrist and breaks his leg
2003 John Densmore of the Doors sues Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger, saying that the newly formed Doors with Stewart Copeland of the Police drumming and Ian Astbury singing was hurtful to their legacy. They eventually change their name to the Doors of the 21st Century
2003 Incubus files suit to get out of their contract with Epic Records with four albums to go
2005 Paul McCartney performs the halftime show at the Super Bowl
2007 The Very Best Of The Doobie Brothers is released
2008 After a Velvet Revolver concert in Los Angeles Scott Weiland enters a rehab clinic voluntarily
2009 Steven Adler, formerly with Guns 'N' Roses, is ordered into a rehab program. Adler was arrested in 2008 on drug charges but failed to complete his community service and was arrested for that in January 2009
2011 Gary Moore dies in Estepona on the Costa Del Sol, Spain. Moore was 58

ROCKLINE with Bob Coburn
Monday, February 7 SEVENDUST 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Wednesday, February 9 ROD STEWART 11:30 PM Eastern/8:30 Pacific Listen here
Does your local rock station carry Rockline? Find out here
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