  Heavy Pettin' first stirred into action when vocalist Hamie, guitarists Gordon Bonnar and Punky Mendoza, drummer Gary Moat and bassist Brian Waugh first burst out of Glasgow in 1981. They were vibrant, priapic, anthemic and focused. As they showed on a three-track demo, and on the subsequent debut single for independent label Neat (‘Roll The Dice’/’Love Xs Love’), they were more than mere Def Leppard slaves. In fact, the Pettin’ had an international sound that owed something to AC/DC, UFO, Thin Lizzy and Foreigner, but also had its own raging momentum. Not that the band found the road straightforward. But, thanks to a work ethic that took them around the country, plus a valuable session for Radio 1’s prestigious ‘Friday Rock Show’, the band eventually landed a crucial deal with the major label Polydor Records. Moreover, their 1983 debut album (‘Lettin’ Loose’) was co-produced by the creative Mack together with Queen guitarist Brian May. Now, that’s pedigree. Amazingly, that album has survived more than 20 years of high-speed hi-tech developments intact. While other, more celebrated records have dated badly, ‘Lettin’ Loose’ re-affirms the belief back then that the Pettin would follow Leppard to big time stature. What went wrong at the time has little to do with band, or lack of ambition/talent. In America, where they should have broken big long before Bon Jovi gave Love A Bad Name, they were held back by the label’s insistence on an anemic re-mix (as well as a title change to ‘Heavy Pettin’, which caused more confusion than anything else). If the band’s essential, vital British brio had been left as conceived in the first place, who knows what might have been achieved. Still, a slot on the bill for the 1983 Reading Festival, the day that Black Sabbath infamously headlined when fronted by Ian Gillan, did them no harm and touring with both Kiss and Ozzy helped the quintet’s progress. Two years later, the Pettin return to the studio, this time with producer Mark Dearnley (who’d worked with AC/DC and Krokus). The result? ‘Rock Ain’t Dead’, which surprised many with a slicker yet conversely tougher approach. The lads really had progressed, although ironically if things had gone to plan, this would have been produced by Lance Quinn, of Bon Jovi and Lita Ford fame. However, just hours before the band were due to fly to Philadelphia, to work with Quinn at his Warehouse Studios, the decision was taken by PolyGram (to whom both Heavy Pettin and Bon Jovi were signed in the US) that, instead, he should start work immediately on what was to be Jovi’s second record, ‘7800 Degrees Fahrenheit’. Perhaps then, it should have been obvious that record company politics were to scupper Pettin in the crucial American market. Despite continuing to show up well in the UK, once again the US was to prove elusive – through no fault of the five musicians. In many respects, this was the point when the writing was scrawled over every available wall space. Regardless of their obvious determination and grassroots support in Britain, it seemed as if Pettin’s realistic chance of significant international success had gone. A third album, ‘The Big Bang’, was released by FM Revolver in 1989. Although it still proved this lot were way ahead of so many others who were selling truckloads of units and getting acclaim from the media; as the 1980s faded into memory, so too did Heavy Pettin. Driven by a desire, a passion and a capacity simply to invoke the magic and rapport the band enjoyed, they released Prodigal Songs in 2007. The album was well received by their loyal fans and the limited pressing sold out making it a highly sought-after collector’s item. In 2017, original members Hamie, Punky, and Gordon joined by Jez Parry on bass and Michael Ivory on drums performed for the first time in 25 years at Scotland’s WinterStorm. Reinvigorated, Heavy Pettin, now joined by ex-Gun guitarist Dave Aitken due to Punky hanging up his guitar and going in to retirement, did several shows in 2018 including a 6 date UK tour, with 3 sold out gigs in Nottingham, London and Edinburgh, as well as 2 sold out headline gigs in Milton Keynes and Glasgow. 2019 is going to be Heavy Pettin’s year with the HRH AOR March 16, Headbangers Open Air in Germany in July 27th and Aug 25th Golden Age of Rock Festival in Belgium already booked and more dates to be announced. According to Hamie, fans should look for a new album as “…the demand and support for new HP material has been so overwhelming, we are excited to say we’re now working on brand new HP material which will be released in 2019… and it’s going great!" Watch an interview with the band: https://youtu.be/G3jXV5zN7ng Heavy Pettin’ Dates Confirmed 2019: MAR 16 - Hard Rock Hell - AOR, Camp HRH, North Wales MAR 30 - Bannermans Rock Bar, Edinburgh, Scotland MAR 31 - Trillians Newcastle, England w/ Spartan Warrior JUL 27 - Headbangers Open Air Festival, Brande-H?merkirchen, Germany AUG 25 - Golden Age Rock Festival, Liège, Belgium AUG 30 - Crauford Arms Music Venue, Milton Keynes, England w / Tytan Facebook: @heavypettinofficial Twitter: @Heavy_Pettin Instagram: @heavypettinofficial Published by The Manamal | February 21ST 2019
 Genre Heavy Metal, Hard Rock, Rock Quiet Riot from Los Angeles, CA formed in 1975 by guitarist Randy Rhoads, bassist Kelly Garni, vocalist Kevin DuBrow and drummer Drew Forsyth. Despite their local popularity, the group was unable to secure a record deal in the United States. with their first two albums, 1977's "Quiet Riot" and 1978's "Quiet Riot II" released by Sony in Japan. In 1979, Rhoads departed to accept an offer to join Ozzy Osbourne's solo band. DuBrow and Forsyth continued on with new members before splitting in 1980. After that, DuBrow continued with various players under the name "DuBrow". Eventually, Dubrow included Kevin, guitarist Carlos Cavazo, drummer Frankie Banali, and bassist Rudy Sarzo (who initially joined Quiet Riot after the band recorded their 2nd album). In 1982, DuBrow changed their name to Quiet Riot. For many fans, this is the quintessential Quiet Riot line up.
QUIET RIOT is a rock & roll phenomenon. Famously described as the first heavy metal band to top the pop charts, the Los Angeles quartet became an overnight sensation thanks to their monster 1983 smash album "Metal Health". QUIET RIOT followed up with the album "Condition Critical" which went double platinum and the band continued to record and tour throughout their 25 + year history. QUIET RIOT continues their historic journey in 2012 with Metal Health founding member Frankie Banali who is joined by QUIET RIOT veteran bassist Chuck Wright and QUIET RIOT guitarist Alex Grossi from their last and most stable lineup. They are proud to announce their new vocalist James Durbin to complete the QUIET RIOT lineup. James stepped into the public eye when he came in fourth place on American Idol on season ten. He was known as the "metal" guy and did a performance with Judas Priest on the show. The story of QUIET RIOT begins in 1980 when Kevin DuBrow formed a new band under his own name, working with Frankie Banali and a variety of musicians over the next few years before signing with Pasha/CBS Records, reverting back to the QUIET RIOT moniker, and entering the studio with new guitarist Carlos Cavazo and bassist Chuck Wright to start work on a new album. The year was 1982 and, following Randy Rhoads' well-documented death, former henchman Rudy Sarzo left Ozzy, replacing Chuck Wright who is the bass player on record for both the "Metal Health" and "Don't Wanna Let You Go" tracks, to complete the lineup and sessions for what would become 1983's "Metal Health". Driven by the irresistible double whammy of the title track's muscular bass line and a raucous rendition of the old Slade chestnut "Cum on Feel the Noize," the album stormed up the U.S. charts, duly reaching the number one spot and going platinum five times over in the process at that time. The sales of Metal Health has now exceeded the 10 million mark worldwide to date. QUIET RIOT returned to the studio to record 1984's "Condition Critical", which went on to sell over 2 million copies in the US and included another chart-ready Slade cover in "Mama Weer All Crazee Now" and the self-penned "Party All Night." In 1986 QUIET RIOT re-grouped to launch the QR III record, Sarzo had been replaced by former bassist Chuck Wright. Vocalist Paul Shortino stepped in and recorded 1988's simply named Quiet Riot with Banali, Cavazo, and new bassist Sean McNabb. In 1991, DuBrow and Cavazo began working together once again, joined by Frankie Banali and eventually recording 1993's "Terrified" with bassist Kenny Hillery. "Down to the Bone" followed two years later with Chuck Wright back on bass, and in 1997, a one-off performance at an after-show party hosted by industrial shock rocker Marilyn Manson who had requested to Banali that QUIET RIOT perform, lured bassist Rudy Sarzo back to the fold. With that lineup once again, QUIET RIOT hit the road playing venues across America, Europe, and Asia. This lineup was captured on 1999's "Alive and Well" album, and 2001 saw the release of "Guilty Pleasures". QUIET RIOT officially parted company with Rudy Sarzo and Carlos Cavazo in October of 2003. In 2004 DuBrow and Banali recruited guitarist Alex Grossi and bassist Chuck Wright and continued to tour nonstop throughout 2006 in America, Europe, South America, and Asia. For the recording of "Rehab" in 2006, DuBrow and Banali entered the studio with bassist Tony Franklin and guitarist Neil Citron, both longtime friends of Banali. QUIET RIOT with the lineup of DuBrow, Banali, Wright, and Grossi continued to perform live worldwide until November of 2007 when sadly, Kevin DuBrow's singing career was cut short with his passing on November 25, 2007 at age 52. Frankie Banali's history with QUIET RIOT spans over 28 years and he has the distinction of being the only member of QUIET RIOT to have recorded on every single QUIET RIOT release from 1983's Metal Health through 2006's Rehab. After nearly three years since the loss of his friend and bandmate Kevin DuBrow, and with careful consideration, soul searching and with the blessings and support of Kevin DuBrow's family, Frankie has decided to continue his journey and the musical legacy of QUIET RIOT along with bassist Chuck Wright, guitarist Alex Grossi, and vocalist James Durbin.  Get The Quiet Riot DVD Movie |
| The formation and rise of Quiet Riot, and Frankie Banali's efforts to get the band back together. Initial release: April 29, 2014 Director: Regina Russell Banali Screenplay: Regina Russell Banali Producer: Regina Russell Banali Language: English Language |  |
 | Recommended Album for new fans of Quiet Riot! Altough a live album the sound quality is suburb and has many great hits throught the bands discography! QUIET RIOT One Night In Milan Frontiers Music s.r.l. Release: 25 January 2019 |
| Band Members Kevin DuBrow Frankie Banali Rudy Sarzo Carlos Cavazo Chuck Wright Kenny Hillery Paul Shortino Sean McNabb Alex Grossi Randy Rhoads Drew Forsyth Kelly Garni Neil Citron Tony Franklin Jizzy Pearl James Durbin | Current Location Los Angeles, CA General Manager Frankie Banali - Hands on Productions, LLC Press contact pinkmermaid@gmail.com Booking agent Mark Hyman, Ashley Talent International, LLC 517-467-7777 superbooking@aol.com |
published by The Manamal | February 18TH 2019
WHITESNAKE 'Flesh & Blood' Album Announcement With 1ST Single And Video "Shut Up & Kiss Me" Released
2/18/2019
Whitesnake Fans get ready because the summer of 2019 just got hotter with Whitesnakes thirteenth studio album due out in early May, just in time to rock your summer fun with 13 fresh new tracks!
David Coverdale, the mastermind behind Whitesnake & co-composer of 'Shut Up & Kiss Me' with guitarist Reb Beach, commenting on the forthcoming release said "that after the intense darkness of our last video BURN If anything, it’s ‘light’ snake, you know? We’ve got some really dark energy going on in the world right now, so we’re gonna write & record a fun, knees up, song about falling in love with a fabulous babe. You’re over-talking, over-compensating & she just looks at you, takes the reins & says, 'Shut Up and Kiss Me!' and that’s it!! My video director and creative partner Tyler Bourns and I discussed a great storyline for the video, which involves a surprise guest: my fabulous old white Jaguar. We ended up cleaning and detailing it, as it has been in storage since I moved to Lake Tahoe, then we dusted off my old turquoise silk jacket from the original ‘Here I Go Again’ video and I was thinking, "man, this is going to be fun!" It’s a respectful acknowledgment and positive nod to the past, just fun stuff.”
Joining Coverdale on Flesh & Blood is the powerhouse band comprised of Reb Beach and Joel Hoekstra on guitar, Michael Devin on bass, Tommy Aldridge on drums, and Michele Luppi on keyboards.
The current incarnation of the band carries on the long and unwavering tradition of main man David Coverdale being surrounded by cream of the crop players who go all in to bring fans the best hard rock humanly possible. 40+ years into their existence, the ‘Snakes fangs have only grown sharper and are ready to inject fans with more of that rock ‘n roll venom they crave.
“Flesh & Blood” will be released via Frontiers Music Srl in multiple formats. See below for full details.
+CD (Jewel Case)
+CD+DVD Deluxe Edition (Digipak) -
Includes two studio bonus tracks on CD. DVD includes "Shut Up & Kiss Me" (classic jag version) (VIDEOCLIP), "Shut Up & Kiss Me" (club mix version) (VIDEOCLIP), Behind the Scenes of 'Flesh & Blood' VIDEO + 3 DVD Audio Tracks (Remixes of album tracks)
+Super Luxury Boxset - Includes CD +DVD Deluxe Edition, 2xLP Standard Color LP, Poster, Numbered Lithograph, Box Set
+2xLP - Black, 180g, Gatefold (Worldwide)
+2xLP - Silver, 180g, Gatefold (Frontiers' U.S. Store Exclusive) - Limited to 300 Copies
+2xLP - Gold, 180g, Gatefold (Whitesnake UK Store Exclusive) - Limited to 500 Copies
+2xLP - Red, 180g, Gatefold (Frontiers' EU Store Exclusive)
Joining Coverdale on Flesh & Blood is the powerhouse band comprised of Reb Beach and Joel Hoekstra on guitar, Michael Devin on bass, Tommy Aldridge on drums, and Michele Luppi on keyboards.
The current incarnation of the band carries on the long and unwavering tradition of main man David Coverdale being surrounded by cream of the crop players who go all in to bring fans the best hard rock humanly possible. 40+ years into their existence, the ‘Snakes fangs have only grown sharper and are ready to inject fans with more of that rock ‘n roll venom they crave.
“Flesh & Blood” will be released via Frontiers Music Srl in multiple formats. See below for full details.
+CD (Jewel Case)
+CD+DVD Deluxe Edition (Digipak) -
Includes two studio bonus tracks on CD. DVD includes "Shut Up & Kiss Me" (classic jag version) (VIDEOCLIP), "Shut Up & Kiss Me" (club mix version) (VIDEOCLIP), Behind the Scenes of 'Flesh & Blood' VIDEO + 3 DVD Audio Tracks (Remixes of album tracks)
+Super Luxury Boxset - Includes CD +DVD Deluxe Edition, 2xLP Standard Color LP, Poster, Numbered Lithograph, Box Set
+2xLP - Black, 180g, Gatefold (Worldwide)
+2xLP - Silver, 180g, Gatefold (Frontiers' U.S. Store Exclusive) - Limited to 300 Copies
+2xLP - Gold, 180g, Gatefold (Whitesnake UK Store Exclusive) - Limited to 500 Copies
+2xLP - Red, 180g, Gatefold (Frontiers' EU Store Exclusive)
| Tracklist CD / 2xLP: 1. Good To See You Again 2. Gonna Be Alright 3. Shut Up & Kiss Me 4. Hey You (You Make Me Rock) 5. Always & Forever 6. When I Think Of You (Color Me Blue) 7. Trouble Is Your Middle Name 8. Flesh & Blood 9. Well I Never 10. Heart Of Stone 11. Get Up 12. After All 13. Sands Of Time Bonus Tracks Appearing on CD+DVD Deluxe Edition and Digital Version: 14. Can’t Do Right For Doing Wrong (Bonus Track - New Studio Song) 15. If I Can’t Have You (Bonus Track - New Studio Song) 16. Gonna Be Alright (X-Tendo Mix) - DVD Audio Track 17. Sands Of Time (Radio Mix) - DVD Audio Track 18. Shut Up And Kiss Me (Video Mix) DVD Audio Track Mixed by Christopher Collier Produced by Beach, Hoekstra & McIntyre Executive Producer: David Coverdale Web: http://www.whitesnake.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitesnake/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Whitesnake.o... Twitter: https://twitter.com/Whitesnake | https://twitter.com/davidcoverdale |  Order Here |
The Manamal | February 18th 2019
For fans of Dee Snider | Twisted Sister | Armored Saint | 80's Vintage Metal Acts
Around late -'83/early-'84, a group called Discipline took shape in Pittsburgh, PA; transitioning from playing covers into an original hard rock/metal outfit. Discipline laid down a two-song demo that gained local momentum via the Pittsburgh Steel radio show before disbanding in 1985, at which time the remaining members—founder Doug Appel (guitar), Mark Menold (guitar), and Ned Lyden (drums)—joined forces with two former members of another Pittsburgh act called Overlord—bassist David Kendrick and vocalist Tim Aymar (later of Pharaoh, Control Denied, Psycho Scream, Triple X, and many more)—and thus 313 was born.
By year's end 1985, 313 had tracked a whopping 10 songs at Gamut Productions, achieving a striking balance between catchy, melodic hard rock and a heavier lean toward traditional metal. Continued writing, rehearsing, and gigging ensued, amidst which an aggressive, faster-paced drummer by the name of Kirk Henry entered the fold—aiding 313's continued growth toward harder-edged metal. Finally, during the winter of 1987/1988, the group settled into Aircraft Recording Studios to complete what should have been their debut full-length album. Sadly, these would prove to be 313's final sessions. After a failed contract with CBS-distributed PARC Records and a short-lived attempt to remain financially solvent as a cover act (operating under the name of Jet Screamer), mounting tensions within the lineup brought things to an end in 1988.
Now, just over 30 years later, Divebomb Records is thrilled to rescue this highly sought-after material from the depths of obscurity with a 20-song, near-complete discography from 313. Fully remastered by Jamie King at The Basement Recording, the disc's booklet is packed with photographs, press clippings, ephemera, and a nine-page interview with the band. For the fans, by the fans!
By year's end 1985, 313 had tracked a whopping 10 songs at Gamut Productions, achieving a striking balance between catchy, melodic hard rock and a heavier lean toward traditional metal. Continued writing, rehearsing, and gigging ensued, amidst which an aggressive, faster-paced drummer by the name of Kirk Henry entered the fold—aiding 313's continued growth toward harder-edged metal. Finally, during the winter of 1987/1988, the group settled into Aircraft Recording Studios to complete what should have been their debut full-length album. Sadly, these would prove to be 313's final sessions. After a failed contract with CBS-distributed PARC Records and a short-lived attempt to remain financially solvent as a cover act (operating under the name of Jet Screamer), mounting tensions within the lineup brought things to an end in 1988.
Now, just over 30 years later, Divebomb Records is thrilled to rescue this highly sought-after material from the depths of obscurity with a 20-song, near-complete discography from 313. Fully remastered by Jamie King at The Basement Recording, the disc's booklet is packed with photographs, press clippings, ephemera, and a nine-page interview with the band. For the fans, by the fans!
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BUY Limited Edition CD
1.Arrogance And Aggression 03:32 2.Suite 313 03:15 3.The Warrior 04:26 4.Shot In The Dark 04:27 5.Robbin' The Cradle 02:35 6.Go Down Fighting 03:33 7.Survivor 03:42 8.Bone Soldiers 05:00 9.Black And White 03:38 10.Top Of The Night 02:59 11.Tonight We Fly 03:30 12.Vengeance Is Mine 03:34 13.Silence And Tears 03:35 14.Black And White 03:23 15.Robbin' The Cradle 03:09 16.Gratitude 03:56 17.Tramontane 05:44 18.Pray For Me 03:00 19.The Warrior 05:20 COMRADES IN ARMS: Warrior, Sword, Omen, Icon and Malice ARSENAL: Limited edition CD – only 500 units pressed worldwide – digitally remastered – band supplied photos – full color 20 page booklet with new band notes Track 1-10: Gamut Sessions (1985) Tracks 11-19: Aircraft Sessions (1987) Divebomb Records released February 9, 2019 |
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Get Your Copy Before Its Too Late Here
Paul "The Manamal" | Published February 16TH
Born Steven Duren, Blackie Lawless is the founding member of the band W.A.S.P in 1982 and is the only original member of the band to this day. It is unknown the actual reason he
chose the band name. It is speculated to be White Anglo-Saxon Protestant, but it has never been confirmed. A couple other possibilities circulating are We Are Sexual
Perverts, We Are Satan's Preacher & We Are So Pretentious. During interviews Lawless and other members answer the same, “We Aren’t Sure Pal”.
Lawless got his first guitar at the age of 9 and officially made $16.35 that year with his first band, The Underside.
At the age of 13, Blackie was stabbed in a fight and at the age of 14, he had been sent to military school to learn discipline but after 18 months of a 2 year sentence, he was kicked out for beating up a Sargent Major.
Throughout the earlier years, Lawless played with different bands, such as Black Rabbitt and Orfax Rainbow but most notably, New York Dolls, when then lead singer, Johnny Thunders left the band in the middle of a tour. Blackie wasn’t with them for long, just for the remainder of that tour. When the tour ended, Lawless and NYD bassist, Arthur Kane, left NYD to check out the L.A. rock scene. They formed a band called Killer Kane and released a 33 ½ EP.
In 1977, he went on to start a band with Randy Piper (who was a co-founder of W.A.S.P) called Sister, Sister.This was ONE of the first bands to ever play around with occult symbolism & theatrical make-up. Sadly for them, the heavy metal scene in the late 1970’s wasn’t a good time and Sister, Sister failed at getting a record company to notice them even with their ardent club following. Following the fall of Sister, Lawless went on to play for Circus Circus & London.
In 1982, W.A.S.P was formed. The original line-up was Lawless, Randy Piper, Ric Fox and Tony Richards. This line-up didn’t survive long as Fox was let go and Don Costa took over his position. Blackie then filled the bassist shoes and brought on Chris Holmes on guitar.
In 1984, W.A.S.P. put out their debut album, “W.A.S.P.” which was noted as being a basic metal recording. This album was originally named, “Winged Assasins”.
This 10 track record is hard rocking and most definitely heavy metal. The guitar riffs and pounding rhythm coupled with Lawless’s voice surely will keep the blood pumping thru the entire album.
After this release, the band became a major U.S. concert draw. Theatrics at their shows kept people coming back for more, year after year. In the beginning, they went as far as having “torture girls”, drinking blood out of a human skull, throwing raw meat into the audience and Lawless even went as far as to wear a buzz-sawed codpiece. Tipper Gore, along with other PMRC (Parents Music Resource Center), constantly targeted them and even went as far to list their song, “Animal (F**k Like a Beast) on their “Filthy Fifteen” in 1985. Ironically, W.A.S.P. toned down their theatrics with the release of their album, “Inside the Electric Circus”. Reviews for this album were not in favor of the band. One critic stated that it was “lackluster and repetitive”. Their continuing downfall during the rest of the late 80’s and early 90’s came from Penelope Spheeris’ rocumentery, The Decline of Western Civilization 2: The Metal Years. This rocumentary exposes the L.A. metal scene. One point during this hour and a half long movie, you will see Chris Holmes drinking himself to oblivion in his full stage gear, while lying on a float in his mother’s swimming pool. In a movie full of revelry and decadence, this has been reported to be the scariest part of the entire show.
Despite going thru rough patches, line up changes and “bad blood”, this band, to date, has 16 studio albums, 31 singles, 3 live albums and 3 compilation albums. For a band who had started out as just a studio band, that never intended to play live, I’d say they’ve done pretty damn good. They still continue to tour and play all of the classics. So whether you are a fan or not, their career is pretty impressive and nothing to sneer at.
~Misti
chose the band name. It is speculated to be White Anglo-Saxon Protestant, but it has never been confirmed. A couple other possibilities circulating are We Are Sexual
Perverts, We Are Satan's Preacher & We Are So Pretentious. During interviews Lawless and other members answer the same, “We Aren’t Sure Pal”.
Lawless got his first guitar at the age of 9 and officially made $16.35 that year with his first band, The Underside.
At the age of 13, Blackie was stabbed in a fight and at the age of 14, he had been sent to military school to learn discipline but after 18 months of a 2 year sentence, he was kicked out for beating up a Sargent Major.
Throughout the earlier years, Lawless played with different bands, such as Black Rabbitt and Orfax Rainbow but most notably, New York Dolls, when then lead singer, Johnny Thunders left the band in the middle of a tour. Blackie wasn’t with them for long, just for the remainder of that tour. When the tour ended, Lawless and NYD bassist, Arthur Kane, left NYD to check out the L.A. rock scene. They formed a band called Killer Kane and released a 33 ½ EP.
In 1977, he went on to start a band with Randy Piper (who was a co-founder of W.A.S.P) called Sister, Sister.This was ONE of the first bands to ever play around with occult symbolism & theatrical make-up. Sadly for them, the heavy metal scene in the late 1970’s wasn’t a good time and Sister, Sister failed at getting a record company to notice them even with their ardent club following. Following the fall of Sister, Lawless went on to play for Circus Circus & London.
In 1982, W.A.S.P was formed. The original line-up was Lawless, Randy Piper, Ric Fox and Tony Richards. This line-up didn’t survive long as Fox was let go and Don Costa took over his position. Blackie then filled the bassist shoes and brought on Chris Holmes on guitar.
In 1984, W.A.S.P. put out their debut album, “W.A.S.P.” which was noted as being a basic metal recording. This album was originally named, “Winged Assasins”.
This 10 track record is hard rocking and most definitely heavy metal. The guitar riffs and pounding rhythm coupled with Lawless’s voice surely will keep the blood pumping thru the entire album.
After this release, the band became a major U.S. concert draw. Theatrics at their shows kept people coming back for more, year after year. In the beginning, they went as far as having “torture girls”, drinking blood out of a human skull, throwing raw meat into the audience and Lawless even went as far as to wear a buzz-sawed codpiece. Tipper Gore, along with other PMRC (Parents Music Resource Center), constantly targeted them and even went as far to list their song, “Animal (F**k Like a Beast) on their “Filthy Fifteen” in 1985. Ironically, W.A.S.P. toned down their theatrics with the release of their album, “Inside the Electric Circus”. Reviews for this album were not in favor of the band. One critic stated that it was “lackluster and repetitive”. Their continuing downfall during the rest of the late 80’s and early 90’s came from Penelope Spheeris’ rocumentery, The Decline of Western Civilization 2: The Metal Years. This rocumentary exposes the L.A. metal scene. One point during this hour and a half long movie, you will see Chris Holmes drinking himself to oblivion in his full stage gear, while lying on a float in his mother’s swimming pool. In a movie full of revelry and decadence, this has been reported to be the scariest part of the entire show.
Despite going thru rough patches, line up changes and “bad blood”, this band, to date, has 16 studio albums, 31 singles, 3 live albums and 3 compilation albums. For a band who had started out as just a studio band, that never intended to play live, I’d say they’ve done pretty damn good. They still continue to tour and play all of the classics. So whether you are a fan or not, their career is pretty impressive and nothing to sneer at.
~Misti
When you think of 80’s and early 90s metal it is easy to see the line of demarcation between metal and grunge. Nirvana killed the hair band. While many of the emerging grunge bands might have had long hair there was a definite change in the look, attitude and music itself about that time. Once Nirvana put Seattle and grunge on the map it seemed as if every new band was dressed in flannel and buried in their depression. While I’m personally not a fan of grunge music there were a few bands or at least a few songs from a few bands that I liked. Candlebox is one of the few that I just flat out loved the entire first album. So, because the songs of Candlebox still resonate today and still stand out from all the other grunge music at the time we’ve chosen them as our vintage spotlight band for the week.
Candlebox, like so many other grunge bands began in Seattle, Washington in 1990. Original members Kevin Martin, Peter Klett, Bardi Martin and Scott Mercado were signed to Madonna’s Maverick records and produced their self titled debut album in 1993. That album featured the iconic "Far Behind" track which was written for and Mother Love Bone vocalist Andrew Wood. Wood passed away from a heroin overdose. Along with this amazing song, the Candlebox album also included hits "Change", "You", and "Cover Me".
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Highlights of this time period for the band include:
Main stage at Woodstock ‘94 Metal Edge Readers Choice Award for Best New Band of 1994 #7 Billboard Charts Album rank |
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The band released their sophomore effort Lucy in 1995, and their third full length album Happy Pills in 1998. The grunge movement was pretty much past at that point and the band officially broke up in 2000. There had been a few lineup changes during their time together and over the years there had been some performances and recording with some of the original members included. The various members of Candlebox had individual projects in the musical world including other bands.However in 2018, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the first Candlebox album the original lineup reunited for 2 live shows in Seattle.
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If you consider yourself an 80’s “hair band” lover, then the band Winger is DEFINITELY a name you’ve heard.
Born Charles Frederick Kip Winger, Kip gained notability by playing bass and back up vocals for Alice Cooper on 2 of his albums, “Constrictor” & “Raise Your Fist & Yell”. Winger (band) was formed in 1986 in New York City. The band’s namesake & lead vocalist, Kip also played bass. Reb Beach on lead guitar, Paul Taylor on guitar & keyboard, rounded out with Rod Morgenstein on drums. The band's first album, “Winger” was released in late summer of 1988. This album went platinum and produced some of their most memorable songs such as, “Madalaine”, “Headed for a Heartbreak”, “Seventeen” & “Hungry” (ladies, pull up the song “Hungry” on YouTube and go to the time spot 2:38...you’re welcome. lol). They toured with this album alongside some other great bands from that era, such as Bad Company, Bon Jovi, Tesla & Skid Row. |
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In 1990, the band was nominated for an American Music Award for their debut album, under the category
“Best New Heavy Metal Band” which they lost to Skid Row. August 1990, the band’s 2nd album, “In the Heart of the Young” was released. This album was also certified platinum and had 3 singles “Can’t Get Enough”, “Miles Away” & “Easy Come, Easy Go”. This album was heavily promoted as the band played 230 shows all over the world over a course of 13 months. Three years later, their album “Pull” was released. This album was not received as good as their previous albums. From this, they only had one single, “Down Incognito”. Like we have seen with so many metal bands, the rise of grunge had a hand in it not being as well received as they would have liked. This album was originally going to be named, “Blind Revolution Mad” but for fear the critics would dismiss the album “out of hand”, he renamed it “Pull” as a flippant innuendo to the critics using the cd as a skeet shooting target. In 1994, Winger disbanded. Kip went on to have a solo career while Reb Beach went off working with some other greats, Dokken, Whitesnake & Alice Cooper. The other members pursued or resumed their roles as session musicians. ~Misti Part II will be about Kip's solo career Part III will be about the Winger reunion and the 2000s |
While the boys from Poison still do shows together playing all of their big hits, rockin’ arenas and small venues all over the world, they all have their own personal stories as to what they are doing outside of the band.
Bret Michaels:
While he hasn’t come up with any material since 2013, Bret continues to perform solo at many venues. He also is an advocate for Juvenile Diabetes and the Diabetes Association. He has been a diabetic since he was young kid. Bret also has 2 daughters, Raine and Jorja who keep him busy when he isn’t out and on the road. He has a line of pet clothing and accessories named “Pets Rock” and is exclusively sold at PetSmart. He’s also heavily involved with “Operation Homefront” which is a charity that provides emergency financial and other assistance to families of service members and wounded warriors.
Bobby Dall:
Bobby has never done a “side” project like Rikki, C.C. & Bret. He said he was lucky enough to be in a band that was successful the first try, but also stated that’s not saying he wouldn’t try it out if the opportunity arose. His life revolves around his children, Zach & Zoe and staying clean and sober, which in itself is a full time job.
Rikki Rockett:
Rikki has been REALLY busy outside of the band. He’s done solo work, partnered up with Brian Cosivera to build custom drum kits called ‘Chop Shop Custom Drums’. Rockett went on to start a side project with Tracii Guns & Eric Brittingham called “Devil City Angels”. Who wouldn't love a combination of L.A. Guns, Poison and Cinderella? The best of the glam and sleaze 80s! Rikki is also a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He has 2 childen, Lucy & Jude, both names after The Beatle’s songs.In 2015, Rockett announced in December that he had been battling throat cancer. Extensive treatments were implemented and in June of 2016, he announced that he was cancer free.
C.C. Deville:
Deville has taken on a side project, with Samantha 7 which was a short lived band. Their song, “I Wanna be Famous” can be heard as the theme song for the reality show, ‘The Surreal Life: Fame Games’, of which he was also a cast member. C.C. also was the inspiration behind the rock n’ roll comic, “C.C. Banana”, a twisted homage to Deville. C.C. married his long time girlfriend Shannon Malone and shortly thereafter, they became parents to a son, Vallon Deville Johanneson. After the profound affect of becoming a parent, C.C. went on to find the Lord.
~Misti-Dawn
‘Flesh and Blood’, Poison’s 3rd studio album, was released in 1990. This record generated many hit songs, 2 of which were top 10 singles with “Unskinny Bop” & “Something to Believe In”. 3 other songs were hit singles as well. “Ride the Wind”, Flesh and Blood (Sacrifice) and “Life Goes On”. This album went Triple Platinum in 1991.
In the 90’s, after the bands release of their 1st live album, “Swallow This Live”, the band went through some line-up changes. C.C. DeVille's addiction caused a lot of problems in the band, and he was replaced with Richie Kotzen (The Winery Dogs).
Despite the grunge movement that settled in and took over the rock scene in the early 90’s, Poison’s 4th studio album, “Native Tongue” was still able to hit gold status and their first compilation album, ‘Poison’s Greatest Hits, 1986-1996’ went Double Platinum.
In 1993 Kotzen was replaced by Blues Saraceno who toured with Poison until the inevitable reunion with C.C. and the classic lineup.
In the 90’s, after the bands release of their 1st live album, “Swallow This Live”, the band went through some line-up changes. C.C. DeVille's addiction caused a lot of problems in the band, and he was replaced with Richie Kotzen (The Winery Dogs).
Despite the grunge movement that settled in and took over the rock scene in the early 90’s, Poison’s 4th studio album, “Native Tongue” was still able to hit gold status and their first compilation album, ‘Poison’s Greatest Hits, 1986-1996’ went Double Platinum.
In 1993 Kotzen was replaced by Blues Saraceno who toured with Poison until the inevitable reunion with C.C. and the classic lineup.
In March of 2000, the band put our their 5th studio album, ‘Crack a Smile...and More’. This record actually started in 1994 but came to a precipitous halt when frontman, Bret Michaels lost control of his Ferrari. As a result of this accident, Michael’s suffered a broken nose, ribs, jaw and fingers along with 4 teeth. Shortly after recovery, they went back in the studio but management put the album “on hold” and opted to release the greatests hits album instead.
‘Hollyweird’ was their next album that came out in May of 2002.
This record sold 11,000 copies in the first week. Their sound was much different from albums from their past. It had a more pop/punk rock feel. The coolest part of this album is the song “Home (C.C.’s story)” which Deville also lends his vocals.
‘Hollyweird’ was their next album that came out in May of 2002.
This record sold 11,000 copies in the first week. Their sound was much different from albums from their past. It had a more pop/punk rock feel. The coolest part of this album is the song “Home (C.C.’s story)” which Deville also lends his vocals.
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In 2007, Poison put out their final studio album, ‘Poison’d’. The band asked on their official MySpace page for fans to pick their favorite songs. This record features 14 of the band’s & fan’s favorite rock classics. The first single dropped was The Romantics song, ‘What I Like About You’. Some of the other tracks they did were interesting to hear them sing like The Cars,“Just What I Needed”, The Who’s “Squeeze Box” & Alice Cooper’s “I Never Cry”. There is also an exclusive Walmart track featured and that’s Justin Timberlake’s, “Sexy Back” (which by the way is AWESOME!).
Poison has toured extensively all over the world. Their fans stretch from the US to Japan to Russia. They are one of those rare bands who have remained relevant for the span of their career. Not only do they have loyal fans who have been with them every step of the way, the are impacting the younger fans as well. That is a testament to all the hard, diligent work they’ve done through the years. Despite personal issues the band had suffered periodically, especially the medical issues with Michael’s, they still persevered and continue to tour to this day.
This band will always be one of my favorites and I hope they’ll be around for a long time.
~Misti-Dawn
Poison has toured extensively all over the world. Their fans stretch from the US to Japan to Russia. They are one of those rare bands who have remained relevant for the span of their career. Not only do they have loyal fans who have been with them every step of the way, the are impacting the younger fans as well. That is a testament to all the hard, diligent work they’ve done through the years. Despite personal issues the band had suffered periodically, especially the medical issues with Michael’s, they still persevered and continue to tour to this day.
This band will always be one of my favorites and I hope they’ll be around for a long time.
~Misti-Dawn
How did a band from Pennsylvania become one of the longest lasting and most well known 80s hair bands out there? In a story that is pure rags to riches and filled with a lot of ups and downs Poison somehow became the “last band standing” as it is 2018 and the guys are still touring together!!!!
In the beginning Poison was called Paris, and the guitarist was Matt Smith. The boys left Pennsylvania in 1983 to find their way in Los Angeles. The hair metal scene was hot on the sunset strip and they knew if they wanted to find success they had to go to the center of that flame.
In the beginning Poison was called Paris, and the guitarist was Matt Smith. The boys left Pennsylvania in 1983 to find their way in Los Angeles. The hair metal scene was hot on the sunset strip and they knew if they wanted to find success they had to go to the center of that flame.
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When they arrived in L.A. the bad struggled to make their name. They developed an extremely “pretty” glam look that somehow was different from the other bands at the time. When Matt Smith returned to Pennsylvania the boys hooked up with a flamboyant guitarist from New York named C.C. DeVille. This completed their lineup and helped with their look as well. There is truly no other like C.C. It should be noted though that before deciding on C.C. the guys also considered Slash (Guns N Roses) and Steve Silva (Joe Perry Project).
Bret Michaels, C.C. DeVille, Bobby Dall and Rikki Rockett took the sunset strip by storm. The band was signed by Enigma Records in 1986 and immediately released their debut album that same year. “Look What the Cat Dragged In” had a unique look and a unique sound. Thanks to heavy play on MTV their catchy tunes and videos for "I Want Action", "Talk Dirty to Me", and "I Won’t Forget You" became very popular songs and fans awaited new releases eagerly. This popularity landed the boys tours with RATT, Cinderella and Quiet Riot. 
While the party hard atmosphere was to be expected it seems as if Poison took being the good time band to extremes. There were rumors of condom dispensers on their tour bus, groupies and drugs as well as fist fights and scandalous behavior that followed them on tour and off.
The initial success was thought to be a flash in the pan for a band called Poison but they persevered even through their own individual challenges and completed their next album "Open Up and Say...Ahh!" in 1988.Album # 2 brought even more success with the iconic ballad Every Rose Has it’s Thorn and of course the good girl lost in Hollywood tale told in Fallen Angel. Open Up sold 8 million copies worldwide. |
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Success looked good from the outside. Fans swarmed to shows, watched their videos and bought albums left and right. From the inside things were beginning to fall apart.
We'll have more POISON throughout the week!
~Suz
We'll have more POISON throughout the week!
~Suz
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