Pub is One of Few that Pours the Perfect Pint of Guinness
Arizona’s authentic Irish Pub, O’Donoghue’s, is celebrating the St. Patrick’s Day holiday by hosting a special “St. Patrick’s Day Party” event on Wednesday, March 17. O’Donoghue’s is located at 20469 N. Hayden Road on the southeast corner of Hayden Road and Thompson Peak Parkway, just minutes north of the 101 Freeway. The popular north Scottsdale pub is fondly named after O’Donoghue’s Pub - still found today on Merrion Row in Dublin. The festive party begins at 6 a.m. with a traditional Irish breakfast consisting of sausages, crispy rashers (Irish bacon), black and white pudding, eggs, grilled tomato, traditional Irish chips and baked beans served with bread and butter. O’Donoghue’s is one of only a few authentic Irish pubs in Arizona that pours the perfect pint of Guinness beer as recommended by the brewery in Ireland.
The restaurant houses a nitrogen generator that yields 75 percent nitrogen and 25 percent carbon dioxide, resulting in a much smoother, richer taste. Most bars in Arizona push mostly carbon dioxide. A free shuttle bus will run between O’Donoghue’s Irish Pub and Harold’s Cave Creek Corral from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. For more information, call O’Donoghue’s Irish Pub at (480) 585-6329 or visit www. scottsdaleirishpub.com.
A traditional Irish breakfast and selected items from our regular menu will be served starting at 6am. $15 Taste of Ireland Buffet will be available in the outside tent at Noon. Also enjoy Irish music from noon till 8pm, followed by our favorite local band…. Celtic Dance Academy 6am & 3pm Meadowlark 12pm-3pm Vyktoria P. Keating 4pm-8pm EastonAshe 9pm-1am $10 Cover Charge Starting at Noon Free Shuttle Bus running from 4pm-11pm, between O’Donoghue’s and O’Harold’s in Cave Creek!
ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION! WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17TH 20469 N. HAYDEN RD. SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85255 480.585.6329 WWW.SCOTTSDALEIRISHPUB.COM NORTH EAST CORNER OF THOMPSON PEAK & HAYDEN RD.
The Vine Tavern and Eatery St. Patrick’s Day on Campus: 6-2 a.m. This all-day bash features drinks, food and music. Drink specials include $3 pints of green beer and $3 Jameson drinks and shots. Food items include shepherd’s pie, Irish stew, and corned beef and cabbage. The 2 Tone Lizard Kings perform at 8 p.m. Doors open at 6 a.m. and the $6 cover starts at noon. For 21 and older. Vine Tavern and Eatery, 801 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe. 480-894-2662. www.facebook.com/vinetaverncampus.
February 19 at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will present the Al Di Meola World Sinfonia on Friday, Feb. 19, at 8 p.m. in its new, state-of-the-art Virginia G. Piper Theater. One of the most celebrated virtuoso guitarists, Al Di Meola rocketed to fame when he was tapped at age 19 to join Chick Corea’s fusion band Return to Forever. Since then, Di Meola has earned countless critical accolades, three gold albums and more than six million in record sales worldwide. Many of Di Meola’s solo recordings in fact have become legendary, including Land of the Midnight Sun, Elegant Gypsy and Casino, which were among the highest-selling records of any instrumental artist at that time. Di Meola continues to break new musical ground with his acclaimed World Sinfonia, which fuses the rhythms of Africa, Latin America and the Middle East with exhilarating jazz harmonies. The ensemble features Fausto Beccalossi on accordion, Peo Alfonsi on guitar, Gumbi Ortiz on percussion, Peter Kaszas on drums/ percussion and Victor Miranda on acoustic bass. Tickets are available for $39 online at www.ScottsdalePerformingArts. org or through the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ patron services box office at (480) 994- ARTS (2787).
Band Name: FAN HALEN, World’s Most Authentic Tribute to Van Halen Band Members: Instruments: Brian Geller Lead Vocals Derek Fuller Guitar Larry Cornwall Drums George DuBose Bass Web Sites for Band: www.fanhalen.net myspace.com/fanhalentribute http://www.facebook.com/fanhalen
Why did this band get started? Plain and simple – for the love of Van Halen. Everyone loves Van Halen and everyone has a bit off VH in em, we just have to sometimes find it. Back in the days of records, the sound of Van Halen was meant to spill out all over your stereo and ruin the rest of your record collection. So why not continue to bring the love to the masses?
What’s the story behind the name? Typically in the wonderful world of the tribute band industry – bands pick song names or album titles as their band name. “Jump” brought up thoughts of white hip hop, while a name like “Panama” makes one think of salsa dancing. “FAN HALEN” says it all! We are four guys that are truly “Fanatics” about Van Halen and when it’s on a marquee you know exactly what to expect!
Are you any good?
We look good, we feel good and we bring back the party Van Halen started. Maybe you should ask the competition…
Name some of your best cover tunes? They’re all cover tunes baby! Just don’t ask for any Van Hagar. We have been known to throw out some Michael Jackson and Rick Springfield.
What do you think is most important when doing a cover tune, exact reproduction, or creative interpretation of a familiar tune?
As a “tribute” band the audience expects to hear what’s on the record so we have no choice but to bring an exact reproduction, both visually and sonically or we’re going to get called out…and you better be the best if you want to run with the devil.
Who gets the most Groupies and why?If nobody gets any, do you have a plan to change this? Groupie information is on a need to know basis and I pride myself on interpersonal communications. Do they exist in the tribute band world or is a figment of your imagination? Will the lovely lady who is school teacher by day be willing to suck the air out of the bottom of Diamond Dave’s cuffs? I look at it like this my friends, the guy who said that money doesn’t buy happiness didn’t know where to go shopping…
Tell us a secret about the band (just between us and 125,000 readers): It’s really Jack Daniels in the bottle and not iced tea - this ain’t no Motley Crue tribute band. And just between you and I, the singer is batting 500 at shows below the Mason-Dixon line.
An underwater volcanic eruption spews boiling water into the cruise ship you’re playing on, and wouldn’t you know it, right in the middle of your set! Being upright, noble folk, what music would you play to calm everyone down as they boil to death? Well since it is Van Halen – one would think the fabled “Eruption” solo would do just right but instead I propose a bit of “Ice Cream Man.” It reminds us of summer time, cool and refreshing and all my flavors are guaranteed to satisfy…
What is the official drink of the band? By the time I hit the stage in Arizona I plan to stand up for rock and roll. In fact by the time we hit the stage, I’ll be lucky to just stand up. Oh was there a question? Any beer that is free and of course Jack Daniels…
How often do you perform live? On average 2-3 times a month excluding Bar mitzvahs, chili cook-offs and roller skating rink openings.
What’s the funniest thing that ever happened while performing? So many, would you like wig flying off story or the mom and daughter team on stage? My favorite took place this past August in Hawaii. I was doing a costume change during the guitar solo and was locked off stage as the band started the next song. Can you say Spinal Pap?
Who is the craziest band member and why? The lead singer of course! Why do you think I got the job? I would just like to say that after all these years of rock n roll, heavy drinking, bright lights and late nights that I still don’t need glasses…I drink right out of the bottle.
What do you do different that kicks ass over other cover bands? Unlike other bands that inform their audience that they are there to pay “tribute” to the band they cover we take the approach when we hit the stage we ARE Van Halen. If you saw VH back in ‘82 and then see us you will be hanging with the band after the show, buying us beers and telling us how we brought you back to your youth. If you didn’t see VH in ‘82 then ask your Mom.
What advice would you give a startup cover band? Pick a band you love and one where they guys dig the music and their girlfriends want to dance and sneak off into the corner with the singer.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about musicians? Cat juggling is a big problem in our industry. But also, and this is a motto I live by so pay close attention, its not who wants to sleep with you; it’s who wants to sleep with you again.
What’s the most difficult aspect of trying to make it as a cover band? Band drama, band drama, and band drama. And is anyone gonna help the drummer carry his kit?
What do you think will happen to your band in the next 2 years? You know history has a way of repeating itself sometimes so I would suspect the band will change singers a couple of times and the guitar player will replace our bass player with his son.
What will people see when you perform live? Great music, a little gyrating (maybe a lot of gyrating), two handed guitar tapping, drum solos, way too tight spandex pants, furry boots, and a glazed donut and a bottle of anything to go!
Your favorite clubs to play in Phoenix? Where are we booked again?
What’s the hardest part about doing cover music? There’s nothing hard about it – it’s rock n roll, it’s a way of life. For some reason people ask me all the time about marriage and why is it so difficult (not that I should be asked considering my track record) and I tell them there are three rings to marriage; the engagement ring, the wedding ring, and the suffering
Dear Lita, Just received a copy of your new CD ‘Wicked Wonderland’ and I wanted to offer my two cents. Take it for what it’s worth. I’m rather confused as to your musical path as of late. If you’re being true to yourself, that’s cool I guess. So after a 15 year absence from the music scene, one would hope this is your true vision and not you being influenced by other people’s vision of what you should be. With your husband Jim Gillette’s vocals all over the record and a barrage of industrial influenced 90’s era metal, I can’t help but wonder if you have radio reception since residing in the Caribbean . I’m just not hearing any SONGS here.
I am hearing Jim’s high-pitched vocals more frequently than any guest vocalist on any album ever. I’m also hearing something that sounds more like a confusing, non-cohesive effort. One might think you were a musical duo now a’la Simon & Garfunkel yet the album is credited to you. Heavy industrial noises that may have been hip 15 years ago and nothing resembling your past don’t help the fact that there are no songs on this album. I’m sure you put your best foot forward, but your fans were probably expecting something resembling what they loved from you.
This record sounds like you were asked to contribute occasional vocals on someone else’s album. Sorry, I’m just don’t get it. Perhaps this is your “Elder” or “Shadowlife” (KISS and Dokken’s miserable musical failures). If so, learn and grow from it. When you are ready to do a real Lita Ford album, please let us know. – Stephen Wilkinson Rockzone Records, 2155 E. University #104, Tempe , AZ 85281 / 480-964-6301 www.rockzonerecords.com / www.myspace.com/rockzonerecords
Unbeknownst to most of the Valley, Scottsdale’s own MyStudio® has grown into one of the entertainment industry’s newest superstars. Since its launch, MyStudio has landed partnerships with some of the biggest names in entertainment including music giant EMI Music Publishing, The GRAMMY Foundation, reality TV king Mark Burnett Productions and music super-producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins (Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson, Beyonce and Britney Spears).
MyStudio has now partnered up with American Idol’s Simon Fuller, celebrity gossip columnist Perez Hilton and choreographer and tour producer, Jamie King to conduct auditions for their new Boy Band project. The three entertainment moguls are looking for five teenage boys to become part of a new Boy Band music group that they are forming. MyStudio was also responsible for the development and hosting of the Boy Band website.
Auditions are on right now at Scottsdale Fashion Square mall. Visit MyStudio.net for more details. MyStudio is the brainchild of Valley resident Larry Ryckman, who serves as CEO of MyStudio, Inc. Larry is an award winning sports and entertainment executive who has recruited a veritable who’s who to his MyStudio team. Engineering legend Shelly Yakus, was appointed MyStudio’s VP - Audio Engineering. Shelly is one the music industry’s most respected veterans having engineered dozens of gold and platinum albums for artists including John Lennon, Tom Petty and U2. Emmy award winner Matt Long heads up the video department and valley icon Barry Goldwater, Jr. serves as Chairman of MyStudio’s parent company Studio One Media, Inc. (a public company).
The Company’s advisory board includes leaders in media, business and entertainment including billionaire media investor and Interscope Records co-founder Ted Field, British publishing magnate and News Corp. director Andrew Knight, former Warner Music President Richard Blackstone, and Paul Oreffice, former Chairman, President and CEO of Dow Chemical. MyStudio opened its first MyStudio in the Scottsdale Fashion Square mall in the fall of 2008. MyStudio kicked off the opening with one of the year’s biggest and most memorable parties, which drew close to 2,000 people. MyStudio began its national expansion with the installation of its second studio in West Hollywood in September of 2009.
The Hollywood location also serves as a showroom and special event space. Since opening the Hollywood location, MyStudio has hosted several star studded events for celebrities such as Dr. Dre, Quincy Jones III and Dancing with the Stars Karina Smirnoff. The next MyStudio is slated for opening in the New York area next month. For more information please visit MyStudio.net.
ABOUT MYSTUDIO
MyStudio is a self contained recording studio designed for installation in malls. It offers the public access to true broadcast quality video and audio recording studio quality with an ease, convenience and economy never before available. Users can choose from over a 1,000 virtual backgrounds in which to create a video and thousands of songs from EMI music. Users can record videos for music, comedy, reality TV, modeling, job resumes, business videos, and personal greetings. For more information visit www.MyStudio.net.
Written by Stephen Wilkinson on Wednesday, 30 December 2009 16:12
The question on everyone’s mind is does Journey’s newest singer sound like Steve Perry? From the standpoint of simply hitting the notes, yes he does. Does he do justice to the catalog vocally? Certainly. Does he or any of the other singers who’ve been put in the place of trying to fill the iconic former vocalist’s shoes have the warmth, soul and feeling that Mr. Perry did? Not even close. Not to discredit the talents of current vocalist Arnel Pineda at all. His voice soars without evidence of straining to hold it together. But with all due respect, he didn’t write the hits, he didn’t live the experiences and he didn’t pay the dues that the other members of Journey did. That being said, this is still a good DVD. Filmed in Pineda’s homeland of the Phillipines, this captures the band playing to a crowd that maybe was more receptive to singer #3 in the lead vocalist slot since Perry bailed over 10 years ago. Their hometown boy now being the newest singer for Journey doesn’t hurt either. Nice photography, editing and good use of stage lighting throughout plus the fact that there’s 25 songs spread over the course of 2 discs make this worthy of the purchase price. Still one of rock’s most criminally underrated guitarists around, Neal Schon continues to deliver the goods with flawless precision and fire. You’ll find all the Journey hits you can think of in this package. Drummer Dean Castronovo sings a few tunes as well, and sounds more like Perry than anyone since good ol’ Steve left. The camera angles, lighting and editing may be of the most current technology to make this an overall nice package. But it’s no substitute for what the Perry led lineup of Journey brought to the forefront of their genre over 2 decades ago. – Stephen Wilkinson
Mariah Carey’s MEMOIRS OF AN IMPERFECT ANGEL “Angels Advocate” Tour Dodge Theatre Phoenix Saturday, February 20, 2010 8:00 p.m. The most successful female recording artist in history is on her way to the Valley. For Mariah Carey’s legions of North American fans, the long wait is over, as the international superstar announces her first major tour in more than three years in support of her #1 R&B album, MEMOIRS OF AN IMPERFECT ANGEL. The “Angels Advocate” Tour stops at Dodge Theatre in Phoenix Saturday, February 20, 2010 for an 8:00pm performance. The 8-week, 19-city “Angels Advocate” Tour is Mariah’s first major tour since the “Adventures of Mimi: The Voice, The Hits, The Tour” of August through October 2006. The opening act of the Tour will be RydazNrtist, a new R&B group signed to Nick Cannon’s NCredible Entertainment. Mariah is now positioned as the only active recording artist in the 50 years of the Hot 100 (which began in 1958) with the potential to surpass the Beatles’ all-time high of 20 #1 Hits. The success of E=MC2 brought total sales of Mariah’s albums, singles and videos to more than 175 million worldwide, distancing her even further from the pack as the top-selling female recording artist in history. For more show information, check out www.livenation.com.
“Out of the swamp, dripping with both wildness and cool. Rich, funky grooves...Grey is a singersongwriter who celebrates life’s most fundamental joys with unforced talent and deep feeling.” –New York Times Down-home roots, rock and soul artist JJ Grey and his band Mofro celebrate the release of their very first vinyl LP, THE CHOICE CUTS, as they continue to tour in support of their latest CD, ORANGE BLOSSOMS. The band performs in Tempe on December 12, 2009. THE CHOICE CUTS is a vinyl-only best-of, featuring two songs from each of the group’s four CDs, as well as a newly recorded version of Van Morrison’s Tupelo Honey. ORANGE BLOSSOMS features 11 original JJ Grey compositions (and one cover) that come right out of the Southern musical tradition. Following up on the major success of Grey’s previous Alligator album, COUNTRY GHETTO (and the reissue of the band’s first two releases, 2001’s BLACKWATER and 2004’s LOCHLOOSA), ORANGE BLOSSOMS is a groove-driven, soulful masterpiece. In addition to the new LP, a few JJ Grey & Mofro songs (as well as some newly recorded material by Grey) can be heard in the new documentary film, The Good Soldier. Saturday, December 12th Marquee Theatre 730 N. Mill Ave. Tempe, AZ 480-829-0607 www.luckymanonline.com 6:30 p.m.
Independent guitarist Kevin Wilson’s ‘Self Portrait’ consists of 2 CD’s: one a very laid back, early-mid 90’s affair that harkens Toad The Wet Sprocket / Counting Crows meets late 80’s early 90’s melodic rock inspired compositions. Titles such as “On The Lake”, “Winter In Paradise” and “Words Of A Poet” indicate that you won’t find your typical girl-chasing romp or oh-woe-isme depression of early 90’s grunge era here. The other disc offers more of a grunged-up affair that changes gears dramatically. “Hellhole”, “Angry Again” and “Tale of Woe” tell you this is definitely taking you down a different road than disc 1. As there are 2 different overall approaches here musically, Wilson also enlisted 2 different vocalists for each set. That in itself makes for more diversity than having the same vocalist sing different styles. So that’s worth something. If you’re not into flavor of the month musical styles and current genres, but rather more organic songs that capture a moment in time, this may be up your alley. Although there is obvious talent that shows itself on occasion, one doesn’t get the feeling of anything extremely catchy hookwise. And for some, that’s okay. Not everyone likes their musical tastes, songs and styles pre-programmed and spoon fed. But given the type of material produced here (i.e. melodic music with good melodies), it would seem essential to have the occasional hook to remember it by.
GOOD MEDICINE Bon Jovi’s ‘The Circle 2010-2011 World Tour’ Coming to Glendale
Bon Jovi’s 2010-2011 “The Circle World Tour” will arrive at Jobing.com Arena in Glendale, AZ on February 24th, 2010. The Grammy Award-winning band will spend much of the next two years on the road, performing 135 shows in 30 countries. With the grounds of New Meadowlands Stadium as their backdrop, the band’s Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, David Bryan and Tico Torres announced their two-year global trek with an exclusive performance for a group of more than 5,000 lucky contest winners, fan club members and on-site construction workers currently building the venue.
Following in the footsteps of their hugely successful Lost Highway Tour, Billboard’s #1 top-grossing tour of 2008, Bon Jovi will draw fans around the world into The Circle, with a residency at London’s O2 Arena in June 2010 before returning to America in the fall for an additional nationwide leg, and further dates well into 2011. The recent release of the Grammy Award-winning band’s new album, The Circle, and subsequent world tour, provides a powerful reassertion of Bon Jovi’s commitment to the hard-hitting rock & roll that has been their indelible signature since the band was born more than 26 years ago. Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased at the Jobing. com Arena Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, via Ticketmaster charge-byphone at 1-800-745-3000, Ticketmaster Express at 866-448-7849(automated only self service line) or online at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets are subject to applicable service charges and event time and date are subject to change. Log on to www.bonjovi.com for the most up to date concert and ticket on-sale information.
Monster Monster is the five-piece rock group’s sophomore album, the follow-up to 2007’s Southern Weather, which scored a #7 Modern Rock single in “Say This Sooner,” a slot on MTV’s prestigious Discover & Download program and a quarter-million in sales after debuting in the Top 40 on the Billboard Top 200 with 29k+. Formed by Underoath drummer Aaron Gillespie along with guitarists Jay Vilardi and Dusty Redmon, bassist Alex Aponte and newest member, drummer Joe Musten, The Almost’s ‘Monster Monster’ represents the culmination of two years of touring, with the resulting disc a melding of the group’s individual talents into a truly collaborative effort. Before the release, The Almost will release a new video to fans, which will be followed by their lead anthemic rock single “Hands.” The album is slated for release on Nov. 3, but will be preceded by a Limited Edition special five-track EP entitled the Monster EP, featuring three album cuts and two B-sides. The EP is now available exclusively at Hot Topic stores, the band’s website, as well as on the band’s upcoming tour.
The Monster EP will come in a special twodisc digi-pack, with a choice of five different covers. In an unprecedented new model for music delivery, EMI and Hot Topic will offer this Limited Edition EP packaging, which includes one disc with the EP’s music and a second blank CD with Monster Monster’s full-length artwork, lyrics and printed track listing on the physical CD, but no music. Fans will be able to download every song through a special promotional code on the day of actual physical release, Nov. 3, from ShockHound.com the MP3, merch and editorial site ( http://www.ShockHound.com/ ), which is a division of Hot Topic, Inc. During the tour, the band will make stops at select Hot Topic stores for exclusive in-store performances and signings. Nov 9 - Marquee Theatre - Tempe, AZ www.thealmost.com www.myspace.com/thealmost www.facebook.com/thealmost www.twitter.com/thealmost
Written by Stephen Wilkinson on Wednesday, 25 November 2009 03:49
Always walking a fine line between rock, blues and jazz, virtuoso guitarist Jeff Beck is captured on his first dvd ever in the intimate setting of Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club to perform predominantly his 70’s era material. Truly one of music’s most respected guitarists, Beck rolls through such trademarks as “Beck’s Bolero”, “Goodbye Pork Pie Hat”, “Cause We’ve Ended As Lovers” along with an instrumental version of The Beatles “A Day In The Life”. They are executed with such brilliance and feeling it’s no wonder why Beck is so well respected and consider by many to be a legend. His playing is enhanced (if that’s even possible) by the musicianship of Vinnie Colaiuta (drums), Jason Rebello (keyboards) and Tal Wilkenfield (bass), or perhaps the other way around. Joining Beck for guest spots are Joss Stone who turns in an incredible version of “People Get Ready” and Eric Clapton on “Little Brown Bird” and “You Need Love”. With 21 tunes in all and interviews, this one is worth the admission price.
If you’re not familiar enough with his playing other than the occasional guest spot, this is a perfect introduction to what music fans have known for years: his playing exudes class, feeling, melody, reckless abandon, masterful musicianship and sheer execution of the guitar that no one can match. Beautifully shot and with an excellent sound mix, would you expect anything less from Jeff Beck?
– Stephen Wilkinson Rockzone Records,
2155 E. University #104, Tempe, AZ 85281 / 480-964- 6301 www.rockzonerecords.com / www.myspace.com/rockzonerecords
Written by Stephen Wilkinson on Wednesday, 25 November 2009 03:05
There seems to be a lot of activity from bands in this decade whose lead singers have all passed on. Queen, The Doors, Blind Melon and Alice In Chains just to name a few. Some people will never accept “the new guy” simply because he isn’t the original but usually moreso as the original singer laid the groundwork in style and substance for what would shape the sound and style of the band. Fortunately for AIC, guitarist Jerry Cantrell was the dominant writer and a key player in their sound. Not to diminish the efforts of what the late Layne Staley. After all, how many bands in the 90’s copped their eerie vocal harmony style that Layne helped trademark? Exactly. The remaining members finally deciding to fly the banner of AIC again would certainly raise some eyebrows. For their first studio effort without Staley, new vocalist William DuVall comes in complimenting the style set forth by Staley yet has a bit of his own grit to show that he is not a clone brought in to re-enact his predecessor.
Cantrell along with bassist Mike Inez and drummer Sean Kinney lock down the rhythm section to complete the band’s trademark sound. Solid, unique and uncompromised, it sounds like AIC because it is. There is no attempt to put sounds and styles in that do not belong. And they’re not trying to reinvent their own wheel. The grunge and sludgy sound with razor shark guitar tone which set them apart in the 90’s is alive and well in tracks such as “Acid Bubble”, “Check My Brain”, “Last Of My Kind”, “Private Hell” and “Take Her Out”. The album also touches on the more acoustic based Jar of Flies era with “You Decision” and “When The Sun Rose Again”. DuVall and Cantrell harmonize as naturally as Staley did with Cantrell over 15 years ago. Whether this album becomes a commercial smash remains to be seen. But in terms of honoring the sound, style and legacy of what they’ve done, this album is most worthy of the name Alice In Chains.
- Stephen Wilkinson
Rockzone Records,
2155 E. University #104,
Tempe, AZ 85281 /
480-964-6301 www.rockzonerecords.com / www.myspace.com/rockzonerecords
Written by Stephen Wilkinson on Wednesday, 25 November 2009 02:38
When the core of a good band (i.e. one of, if not THE principle songwriter(s) leaves) is fractured, there’s only so long one or the other members can drag the name around. Ex-Dokken guitarist George Lynch has been guilty of this for quite a while. Sure, everyone’s got to make a living. George has had other singers in the lead vocal slot after original vocalist Oni Logan departed nearly two decades ago after the debut of 1990’s ‘Wicked Sensation.’ But a name typically invokes what people expect, especially when it carved its own niche.
Here in 2009 Oni has reunited with George on record. There’s a new rhythm section in ex-Whitesnake bassist Marco Mendoza and drummer Scott Coogan. The big question on everyone’s mind is whether this incarnation is worthwhile - and do Oni and George do justice to the Lynch Mob name? The answer is quite simply Y-E-S. In many ways this album sounds as though it picks up where ‘Wicked’ left off, yet it’s also fresh and drips with mojo, soul and some of Lynch’s tastiest leads in many years. Album opener “21st Century Man” is a throwback of sorts to “River Of Love” from the band’s “heyday” if you will, yet it just lays it down and sets the tone for the record. The title track opens with an acoustic swampy vibe before the chorus kicks in with velvety, soulful vocals and a solid foundation.
This tune alone showcases what has been missing for so long: mojo and soul. Oni simply has it. Vocally, he is still on top of his game. “My Kind Of Healer” is a moody rocker that has a great groove. The tune has a lengthy trail out that showcases some almost Jeff Beck-like noodling from Lynch and a groovy bass line from Mendoza that is almost hypnotizing. “Where Do You Sleep At Night” is a groove-ladden rocker that is full of feel. There are so many good songs on this album, it’s hard to find anything “weak” although naturally some songs are better than others. The album certainly has a nice, consistent flow to it. Nice production and mix overall, this is a top notch effort. You would be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t check this one out. No offense to any past members or vocalists, but THIS is Lynch Mob. Bottom line, if you are a fan of the Wicked Sensation album and what Oni and George created nearly 20 years ago, you’d have to be deaf to not appreciate what they’ve cooked up for 2009. This album simply smokes! – Stephen Wilkinson
An exciting new Jazz duo of concerts awaits those who know great Jazz when they hear it thanks to the Wind Star Gardens “Jazz Under The Stars” events on May 23rd and June 20th starting at 7pm. The events are sponsored by Kokopelli Wines and proceeds benefit the St. Mary’s Food Bank. On May 23rd, The Sahnas Bothers will blend the sounds and rhythms of their native Greek culture with a warm, inviting romance of the classical Spanish Guitar. Thano and Demetri Sahnas always create a magical and intimate Mediterranean style that perfectly compliments the powerful Jazz-Fusion of their popular Phoenix based group, Turning Point. “Sahnas”, as the brothers are collectively known, has enthralled thousands of people at clubs and arts/craft festivals throughout the Southwest with their unique hybrid sound. Margo Reed is widely regarded as the icon of Valley female vocalists. She moved into the Valley in the mid 70’s seeking a better climate for her son. Her move triggered the Reed’s family exodus from Kankakee, Illinois, including her everpopular sister, Francine Reed. The feisty Ms. Margo is known for her “in the pocket” swing as well as “love mushy” ballads, profound message songs, down-in- the-gutter blues, “Sugar in My Bowl” and “I’m an Evil Gal” to name but two. Margo will be backed by Jazz Alive, including popular Jazz pianist Joel Robin and saxophonist Jerry Donato. Both Events are sponsored by Kokopelli Wines and are fundraisers for St. Mary’s Food Bank. Tickets are $20.00 for both concerts and can be purchased at www.Ticketforce.com or (877) 840-0457. This is a rain or shine event; blankets and or lawn chairs are suggested. Wind Star Gardens is located at 8635 West Olive Ave. For more information on Wind Star Gardens “Jazz Under the Stars” events, please call (623) 412-3030 or visit www.windstargardens.com
Sweet Nasty www.sweetnastyband.com Band Members Instruments Johnny Low Vocals/Guitars Anthony V Fusco Vocals/Guitar/Slide Guitar Anton Teschner Saxophone/Flamenco Guitar Jimmy Stiles Bass/Vocals Mike Kreidel Drums Why did this band get started? This band formed in the fall of 2007 in the mountains of Arizona. We all wanted to push our boundaries as musicians by creating a new style of music- funky Americana, and increase our skills as a live act.
How would you describe your style of music? We are the world’s original funky Americana band.
The Veer Union recently played The Venue in Scottsdale, and the mixture of high school aged scenesters and a few small crowds of college-aged folk drinking at the bars were treated to a quality showpiece of music and meaningful messages. The Venue has an impressive New Orleans style décor, and proved a perfect place to take in this act formed in late 2004 by Crispin (vocals) and Eric (vocals and guitar), and also includes Roots (bass), Fid (guitar), and Neil (drums).
The Veer Union strives to provide positive messages within music that has a slightly darker sound. The fi ve young Port Alberni B.C. natives have been on tour for the past two years, trying to spread their music. The style is a mix of emo, pop, and a somewhat hardcore rock music undertone. Their music sounds a lot like if Disturbed met Good Charlotte at a positive thinking convention and wrote some music.
Reads the band’s Myspace Website: “Every song we write about is about hope, whether it’s about hoping to get the girl back, being in a better place, or not being spiteful or cynical. Veering away from the dark and into the light.” The Veer Union is currently part of a tour supporting the You Can be Anything Foundation, which raises money for schools that are losing music programs due to budget cuts. The band is signed with Universal/ Motown Records out of New York City and is scheduled to release their newest album, Against the Grain, on April 21st.
Tucson- Award-winning blues and soul vocalist Janiva Magness, touring in support of her Alligator debut CD, What Love Will Do, will perform in Tucson on April 11that 7:30pm. Magness, winner of both the 2006 and 2007 Blues Music Award for Best Contemporary Female Artist Of The Year, possesses a rich, soulful voice and has absolute command over her material. She is an incredibly gifted performer who can lead her audience through a range of emotions, from the deepest sorrow to overwhelming joy. In April 2008, she traveled to Iraq and Kuwait co-headlining Bluzapalooza, the fi rst-ever blues concert tour to perform for American troops. This performance is part of the Rhythm & Roots Concert Series and will be held at Old Town Artisans, 201 N. Court in Tucson. Tickets are $18 in advance or $20 at the door. For more information, visit www.rhythmandroots.orgor call (520) 319-9966.
Did you know that every Saturday in April the Mesa Arts Center offers a free festival in downtown Mesa (on Main Street between Sirrine and Morris) that features creations from local artists, food, and fun for the whole family? Every second Friday (through June) from 6:30 to 9:30pm, they also offer free outdoor concerts, ticketed performances in the theaters, and free admission to the Mesa Contemporary Arts center. Downtown merchants and restaurants are open until 10pm on Sundays. Check out www.mesaartslive.com for more details. If you’re a Willie Nelson fan, you might be interested to know that his daughter, Paula Nelson, will be performing at Cave Creek Coffee Company (6033 E. Cave Creek Road in Cave Creek) on Friday, April 10th at 7:30pm (doors open at 7pm). Get tickets in advance for $15 or $18 at the door. Call (480) 488-0603 or visit www.cavecreekcoffee.com for more information. Headroom is an original rock band from right here in Phoenix and they have a diverse sound with infl uences from Yes, Dire Straits, Queens of the Stone Age, Led Zeppelin, The Doors, Rush, Deftones, STP…well, you get the idea. Check out this methodical, tight and energetic band at Joe’s Grotto (13825 N. 32nd St. in Phoenix) on Saturday, April 11th. Make sure to tell them I sent you.
Perform Scottsdale- As part of its 2008–09 “Detour” Season, the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will present the internationally-acclaimed string ensemble Sejong with guest violinist Gil Shaham at Pinnacle Presbyterian Church in Scottsdale on April 3rd at 8pm. Renowned for its cohesiveness, beautiful sound and refreshing musical style, Sejong is a unique, conductor-less string ensemble that has performed on major stages throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia since its inception in 1995. Based in New York and envisioned as a “cultural ambassador” by Artistic Director Hyo Kang- a faculty member of The Juilliard School and Yale University- Sejong brings together 14 individually distinguished solo and chamber musicians hailing from eight different nations. Performing with Sejong will be violinist Gil Shaham, one of today’s most virtuosic and engaging classical artists. Shaham is sought after throughout the world for concerto appearances with leading orchestras and conductors, as well as for recital and ensemble appearances on the great concert stages and at the most prestigious festivals.
Celebrating the 200th anniversaries of Haydn and Mendelssohn, this special program will feature Haydn’s Violin Concerto in G Major and Violin Concerto in C Major as well as Mendelssohn’s Octet in E-fl at Major. Pinnacle Presbyterian Church is located in Scottsdale at 25150 N. Pima Rd. at the East Happy Valley Road intersection. Free parking is available at the church. Visit www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org, or call (480) 994-ARTS (2787) for more information.
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The restaurant houses a nitrogen generator that yields 75 percent nitrogen and 25 percent carbon dioxide, resulting in a much smoother, richer taste. Most bars in Arizona push mostly carbon dioxide. A free shuttle bus will run between O’Donoghue’s Irish Pub and Harold’s Cave Creek Corral from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. For more information, call O’Donoghue’s Irish Pub at (480) 585-6329 or visit www. scottsdaleirishpub.com. 
There seems to be a lot of activity from bands in this decade whose lead singers have all passed on. Queen, The Doors, Blind Melon and Alice In Chains just to name a few. Some people will never accept “the new guy” simply because he isn’t the original but usually moreso as the original singer laid the groundwork in style and substance for what would shape the sound and style of the band. Fortunately for AIC, guitarist Jerry Cantrell was the dominant writer and a key player in their sound. Not to diminish the efforts of what the late Layne Staley. After all, how many bands in the 90’s copped their eerie vocal harmony style that Layne helped trademark? Exactly. The remaining members finally deciding to fly the banner of AIC again would certainly raise some eyebrows. For their first studio effort without Staley, new vocalist William DuVall comes in complimenting the style set forth by Staley yet has a bit of his own grit to show that he is not a clone brought in to re-enact his predecessor. 
Did you know that every Saturday in April the Mesa Arts Center offers a free festival in downtown Mesa (on Main Street between Sirrine and Morris) that features creations from local artists, food, and fun for the whole family? Every second Friday (through June) from 6:30 to 9:30pm, they also offer free outdoor concerts, ticketed performances in the theaters, and free admission to the Mesa Contemporary Arts center. Downtown merchants and restaurants are open until 10pm on Sundays. Check out 
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