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- August 6th
Do you spend hours in front on your television jamming to your favorite songs? If this sounds familiar, you might be a Rock Band addict. So where can you get your next fix? Rock Band Live, of course! Hot Topic is a sponsor on this fall’s Rock Band Live Tour featuring Panic at the Disco, Dashboard Confessional, Plain White T’s and The Cab. Rock Band fans will also get a chance to perform on stage at each event. Cool, huh? Tickets go on sale Aug 8th, but Rock Band and Hot Topic will let you get them a day early. Plug in and click here.
- August 5th
That’s what Iggy and crew wanna know. A truck parked outside of an Embassy Suites in Montreal was hotwired on the morning of August 4th. That truck was full of the band’s gear. Theft is not cool, but it’s especially not cool when it happens to our favorite musicians. “No Fun,” indeed!
The rented truck containing the band’s gear has Michigan plates with the license number AC46493. Do you have any information pertaining to this incident? Do you need more info? Click here.
- July 31st
Amy Winehouse is out, but Jack White and Alicia Keys are in. Yes, that’s right. The White Stripes frontman and the R&B pianist teamed up together to record the theme song for the upcoming James Bond film, Quantum of Solace. “Another Way to Die” will be the first duet in the 22-film history of Bond. White wrote, produced and played drums for the song, which will be released with the entire soundtrack on October 28th. Check out Daniel Craig as 007 in Quantum of Solace, set to hit theaters November 7th.
- July 30th
As many of you are anticipating the movie release and fourth book installment of the Twilight series, we wanted to give you a little something to get you really excited! Yes, we’re carrying official Twilight merchandise. Currently, we have two juniors’ tees and one men’s T-shirt. But more is about to come! So keep checking back for the latest goods with exclusive book and movie art. Edward and Bella know what’s forbidden, and to fall in love with this product is not. Get yours!
- July 28th
As most of you now know, Motley Crue is going on tour. But for those of you who may not get a chance to see the metal giants, you will now. The Crue have decided to broadcast a live global concert. Yes, anyone who lives anywhere around the world will get the opportunity to rock out in the privacy of his/her own home. The set will take place at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas on Friday, August 1st, starting at 9:30 PM PST. Want to see Vince and the rest of the guys? Of course you do. Just visit DeepRockDrive.com to register, and you can tune in for free. Spaces are limited, so you better hurry! And bring along some girls, girls, girls.
- July 24th
Management and accounting firm London & Co. wants a whole lotta Love. Courtney Love, that is. The former Hole mouthpiece and widow of Kurt Cobain is being sued for nearly one million dollars, and sadly not for crimes against grammar on her MySpace blogs. Love had an oral contract with the firm (allegedly!) which promised 5% of her earnings and those of her company, The End of Music (which was set up to manage the intellectual property of her late husband), would be theirs. And here’s the math. London & Co. claims that Love netted $19.5 million dollars from a portion of the Nirvana publishing catalogue, which would mean they’re owed $975,000. Is there truth to their claims? Let the courts, not Court, decide!
- July 22nd
In anticipation of their latest release, Lost in the Sound of Separation, Underoath has decided to give its fans a taste of what’s to come by posting the first song from the new album. You can hear “Desperate Times, Desperate Measures” right here. You know you’ll dig it, so revisit Hottopic.com to pick up your copy of the band’s fourth studio album, which is set to hit the streets on September 2nd.
- July 21st
The Decemberists are almost ready to start recording the follow-up to 2006’s The Crane Wife. Frontman Colin Meloy has been spending time in France writing the new material, which he described to MTV as “mossy and evil.” Hanging out in Death Cab for Cutie guitarist/producer Chris Walla’s pad just wasn’t going to work for this album, as it had for the previous two. A change of venue was in order. The Decemberists were originally going to put out a little something in order to “tide the fans over,” but luckily, they changed their mindset. The band will begin putting the whole thing together on July 28th. More details will follow.
- July 18th
Exercise your rights and take action! It’s as simple as registering to vote. Since its conception nearly 20 years ago, Rock the Vote has helped intersect young people with politics and pop culture, including all forms of artistic expression. So do you want to get involved in the issues that affect your life? If yes, click the Rock the Vote icon displayed at the footer of each page on Hottopic.com, fill out the form, print it and mail it. Becoming a registered voter is that easy. Awesome!
- July 17th
Vans is honoring the work of DC punk pioneers Bad Brains with a new collection of shoes and apparel. The collection will include an array of totally awesome Bad Brains goods that capture the band’s Rastafarian roots, including T-shirts and a few pairs of signature low, high and chukka sneakers. The line will make its debut sometime in spring of 2009. Click here to check out some photos of the collection.
- July 16th
The Finns are heading to the US with the highly anticipated Children of Bodom headlining tour, where they’ll be supported by Between the Buried and Me and another special guest. The tour will take off on September 11th in Baltimore, MD and land on October 10th in Worcester, MA. This trek criss-crossing the US will support Children of Bodom’s latest release, Blooddrunk, and follow their appearance on Gigantour. Advance ticket sales will begin on July 16th via Nokia Ticket Rush and will open to the public on July 18th and 19th via Live Nation. Don’t miss out!
- July 15th
Black Lamb is playing a show at the Rock and Roll Grill located at 1531 Champa St., Denver, CO on July 26th at 2 PM. But that’s not all! Head on down to the Denver Pavilions Hot Topic at 6 PM for a meet and greet session with Black Lamb. Hey, what’s better than seeing an awesome show followed by meeting the band? Nothing, so you better get there.
- July 14th
Call yourself a Dark Knight fan, huh? Well, this is no laughing matter. From July 18th thru July 20th, come in to any Hot Topic store looking like The Joker and get 10% off your entire purchase!* So head on down, put a smile on that face and save.
* Discount not valid on clearance, vinyl, DVDs, electronics, online or prior sales, gift cards, packaging, tax or shipping and handling. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Item return equals price paid. Hot Topic, Inc. employees/family ineligible. Void where prohibited.
- July 10th
Think your favorite band has a cool logo? Well, think twice before sticking it on a piece of clothing because it’ll cost you big bucks, $11 million to be exact. According to Rollingstone.com, a Florida clothing company is being sued by Bravada International, a merchandising company that owns the rights to various band logos, for affixing the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ logo on a fan’s jacket. So what’s the problem? According to the clothing company’s owner Gary Shaffer, “They [Bravada International] are claiming there is a possibility that I’ve made over a million dollars in profits on copywrited merchandise, which is not true.” Lesson learned: if you don’t own it, you can’t use it without permission.
- July 9th
You love Skelanimals; you wear Skelanimals! Hey, your favorite bands do, too. So stop by the Skelanimals Warped Tour Booth to get something signed from As I Lay Dying, Alesana, Automatic Loveletter, Family Force 5, Mayday Parade, Pierce the Veil, Charlotte Sometimes and Oreskaband; they’ll be there everyday just waiting for you. So tell them about how Kit Cat’s your fave and Diego Bat is awesome. Hey, maybe you’ll have something in common. Keep checking back, ‘cause we’ll be featuring more of the Warped Tour bands rocking their Skelanimals gear, including Paramore and Forever the Sickest Kids.
Yes, you will soon be hearing the mumbles n’ grumbles of Ozzy Osbourne once again. Ozzy, wife Sharon, son Jack and daughter Kelly will be joining the extended Fox network family by creating their own variety show. Similar to “The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour” of the 70s, the Osbourne program will feature comedy sketches and musical performances, which will encourage audience participation.
- July 3rd
In preparation of their upcoming album, All Hope Is Gone, Slipknot has decided to update their infamous masks. But fans don’t have to wait until August 26th for the album to street. The guys have decided to release some awesome photos depicting their latest mask styles, as well as some original favorites. Spinner.com has the exclusive, but we want you to check them out! You know you’re dying to see them, so click here.
- July 2nd
A metal legend wants to give you some advice. Interested? On July 10th, Guitar Center in Hollywood, CA will be hosting an installment of Guitar Center Sessions, an evening of dialogue and insight with Dave Mustaine, the frontman/guitarist for Megadeth. He will demonstrate guitar techniques, discuss his favorite gear and give some advice on the music biz, such as marketing and touring. This exclusive event is free and open to the public. So whether you’re in a band or simply a music fan, this is an event you don’t want to miss!
- July 1st
Do you live in the Miami, Los Angeles, New Jersey, Chicago or Houston area? Do you want to see The Dark Knight? Well we want to help put a smile on your face by giving you the chance to see an advance screening of The Dark Knight. All you have to do is purchase $20 or more of Dark Knight merch and you’ll receive a free ticket to an advance screening. Click here for more details.
- June 27th
A Hot Topic exclusive! Be one of the first to hear "Psycho Social" from Slipknot's upcoming album, All Hope Is Gone. Starting Sunday, June 29th, all Hot Topic locations will be playing the song every hour on the hour. So stop by your favorite Hot Topic store to check it out! You know you’ll love it, and there’s more where that came from. So don’t forget to pick up your copy of All Hope Is Gone on August 26th.
- June 26th
Want to make your friends jealous? Then you’ll want to win this Ultimate Mayhem VIP Package. If you’re the lucky winner, you’ll get a VIP flyaway package for two to the WWE SummerSlam in Indianapolis, IN, a VIP flyaway package for two to the Rockstar Mayhem Festival in Buffalo, NY, a custom Mayhem Tama drum kit, a custom Mayhem Ibanez guitar, an Xbox 360, a subscription to Revolver Magazine, a $500 Hot Topic Gift Card and many more awesome prizes! If you miss your chance to win, you’ll never forgive yourself and neither will your buddies. So click here to enter and check out some other cool contests. Good luck!
- June 25th
Is the Mayhem Festival heading to a town near you? If so, visit your local Hot Topic store and enter your name in a drawing to win a pair of tickets to the nearest Mayhem show. But that’s not all! In select Hot Topic stores located near every stop on the tour, you can enter to win the opportunity to be Black Tide’s roadie for a day. So what are you waiting for? This chance to win won’t last long! To find the nearest Hot Topic location, click here. You can check out tour dates here.
- June 24th
For any Aiden fan and/or The Lost Boys fan, this is exciting news! The post-hardcore band has recorded its own version of Gerard McMann’s “Cry Little Sister” for the sequel to what was probably the greatest movie of 1987, The Lost Boys. Yes, the teenage vampire classic, which includes Keifer Sutherland and the two Coreys, will finally be followed by a part deux. Unfortunately, only one Corey (Feldman) is expected to reprise his role. But the important info here is that Aiden is contributing an awesome rendition of an already great theme song. It kind of gets you in the mood to bust out those comic books and start creating a plan of attack. Want to hear it? Click here. The movie is expected to be released later this year or early 2009.
- June 23rd
The Dresden Dolls’ vocalist, keyboardist and songwriter Amanda Palmer has decided to ditch her partner Brian Viglione for part of the summer, focusing on a brief excursion in support of her upcoming solo album. But don’t think that this temporary hiatus from Brian means that Amanda will lose the theatrics that make The Dresden Dolls what it is. Her album, Who Killed Amanda Palmer, is filled with contributions from Annie Clark (St. Vincent), the Dead Kennedys’ East Bay Ray, cellist Zoe Keating, as well as string arranger/composer Paul Buckmaster. But it doesn’t end there. For a special treat, graphic novelist Neil Gaiman wrote the liner notes and collaborated with Amanda on a photography book set to coincide with the album’s release. Produced by Ben Folds, this sensational masterpiece will be released via Roadrunner Records on September 16th. It will not disappoint! Check out her MySpace page for tour info.
- June 20th
Jimmy Eat World is bursting with new material. Just months after the release of their sixth studio album, Chase This Light, the band is already starting to work on their next release. Bassist Rick Burch revealed to Gigwise the band’s plans to begin recording in their home studio:
“We’re kind of feeling like we have a lot of ideas brewed up, and we’re going to get cracking on some new music…So far, we’re having the attitude of just doing it. And not having the attitude of trying to do anything and just ‘Let It Happen.’ With our other records, sometimes Jim will have a lyric melody or a guitar melody, and we’ll build from that. Sometimes we just sit around and make noise and go from there.”
They’re trying to break free from the cycle of releasing one album every three years. So fans, expect some great stuff that’ll be newer, fresher and available more often. Click here to read the rest of the interview.
- June 19th
Gene Simmons, the bassist for the theatrical music phenomenon known as Kiss, has accused Radiohead and other bands of “contributing to the demise of the record industry.” How? Well, Simmons believes that the influx of bands that have been jumping on the download-music-for-free bandwagon are changing music fans’ perceptions on how to acquire music. Ah…yeah! He explains as only Gene Simmons can:
“The record industry is dead. It’s six feet underground and unfortunately the fans have done this. They’ve decided to download and file share. There is no record industry around so we’re going to wait until everybody settles down and becomes civilized. As soon as the record industry pops its head up, we’ll record new material.”
Is he blaming file sharing for Kiss’s lack of new material? Nine Inch Nails, Pennywise and Green Day are a few more examples of those bands that have decided to embrace technology and offer their music on various formats, including DRM-free MP3s. Click here to read more.
- June 18th
Slipknot has just announced the title of their upcoming fourth album. All Hope Is Gone is set to hit the streets on August 26th via Roadrunner Records. Singer Corey Taylor gave Billboard a brief synopsis of the album’s content, letting fans know what they can expect:
“We have made an album that will show the road behind, the road ahead and where we are as men. I think it’s the best thing I’ve ever made. And I challenge anyone to prove me wrong…It has so much power in it, and yet there are so many great spots for melody. It’s controlled chaos that hits you right out of the gate.”
It’s gonna be the summer of Slipknot! Along with a huge new release, the guys will be co-headlining the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival with Disturbed. The 30-date carnage begins July 9th in Auburn, WA and ends August 19th in Darien Center, NY. Click here for all the details.
- June 17th
Brian Welch is best known to many of us as “Head,” Korn’s former guitarist. Now, as previously announced, he has created a new label, Driven Music Group, and will be releasing a debut album, Save Me From Myself, which is set to hit the streets on September 9th. Well if you’re anticipating this release, Head…ahhh…Brian wants to give his fans a little taste. A three-minute sample of “Flush,” the album’s first single, has just been posted on his MySpace page. Click here to listen.
- June 16th
As previously reported, Metallica fans are anticipating the upcoming release of Guitar Hero: Metallica. Now, fans want more! (Metallica fans always want more.) Well, the rock legends have recently revealed the title of what will be their follow-up album to 2003’s St. Anger. Get ready for Death Magnetic, which is set to hit the streets in September. Can’t wait that long? Then visit the band’s website to download some Death Magnetic wallpapers and check out the latest news.
- June 13th
Anticipating the release of the new Sky Eats Airplane album? Of course you are. Well, the guys wanna give you a taste of what’s to come from their self-titled Equal Vision debut. Click here to treat your ears to some Texan electronic metalcore with “Long Walks on Short Bridges.” If that morsel just isn’t enough, be sure to pick up Sky Eats Airplane’s self-titled release on July 22nd! In the meantime, check ‘em out on the road with Skylit Drive.
- June 12th
On March 31, 1967, rock legend Jimi Hendrix set fire to his 1965 Fender Stratocaster while playin’ a gig at the London Astoria. This memorable moment easily goes down as one of the greatest in the history of rock n’ roll. Unfortunately, this scorched relic has been kept in storage for the past 40 years. Well, you can get your hands on it ‘cause the guitar is hitting the auction block. All you’ll need is a mere $500,000, the expected going price. Can’t swing that? Don’t worry ‘cause you can check it out on the cover of Guitar and Bass Magazine, which is set to hit the stands on June 20th. It’s about time this guitar gets some recognition!
- June 11th
Following the release of 2002’s Believe and 2005’s Ten Thousand Fists, Disturbed has earned its spot as one of music’s hottest bands, joining a small list of others that have topped the Billboard charts for the third time in a row. Only Van Halen, U2, Metallica, Staind, System of a Down and the Dave Matthews Band can boast about this feat, as well. What, you don’t have a copy of Disturbed’s Indestructible? Then ya better click here to score yours.
- June 10th
Wanna own a piece of Hayley? Well, she’s advising fans against doing so. It seems that her ex-stepfather is selling some of her personal childhood memorabilia on eBay, and the Paramore frontwoman is spreadin’ the word in hopes that no one will pay for what appears to be a blatant disregard for her privacy. While reading a posted comment about seeing a handwritten notebook with some of Hayley’s old schoolwork that included her love of horror films, she decided to investigate. Fortunately, this item has since been removed from the site after Hayley told fans about the culprit’s insanity and posted his membership info. Here’s an excerpt of her blog, which outed the seller:
“It happens to be my ex-stepfather. Who is…well…insane, hence the reason he is my EX-stepfather…So while I can laugh at the fact that a bit of my past has surfaced, I have to admit I felt like throwin’ [excrement] when I saw the username. To be honest, I’d love to post his full name, [where he works and possibly a phone number.] Then all of you could show him what it feels like when your personal life is out there for everyone to put their hands on…Don’t buy it. I’m gonna buy it.”
- June 6th
Weezer’s latest single, “Pork and Beans,” was written by frontman Rivers Cuomo as a direct protest against the record label execs that told him he needed to write songs that were more “catchy.” It seems that the video is following suit. This incredibly addictive video pays homage to the phenomenon that is YouTube and all the awesome footage that is placed on there by people like you. The guys assembled a cast of greats, like Tay Zonday of “Chocolate Rain” fame, the Mentos/Coke experiment, the dramatic chipmunk (a personal favorite), Kelly (another fave), the brilliant Kung-Fu mishap, the eloquent Miss Teen USA South Carolina 2007, the evolution of dance, the Star Wars kid and so many other spectacular shenanigans. If ya haven’t checked it out yet, why not? Well, ya don’t need to search far. Just click here.So “leave Britney alone” and enjoy ‘cause “it’s peanut butter jelly time!” Get your copy of Weezer’s The Red Album now.
- June 5th
The Sex Pistols’ Johnny Rotten (A.K.A. John Lydon) has once again earned his namesake. While working as a judge on Fuse’s Bodog Battle of the Band, he attacked the show’s former producer, Roxane Davis. So she is suing him for assault and battery, claiming that he punched her in the face. Why? Because he was unhappy that the L.A. hotel room she booked for him during a shoot was not adjacent to his assistant’s. Duh! Hey, don’t tick off a punk, especially one that doesn’t mind his manners. Wanna read a little more about the incident? Then click here.
- June 4th
Are ya feelin’ a bit lonely, a little lost without love? If music is your true passion, Fuse TV wants to help ya with your search for that special someone. The music channel is launchin’ a brand spankin’ new dating show, You Rock, Let’s Roll. Ahhh…pure poetry, isn’t it? First, they’re gonna need a few contestants, and you could be one of ‘em. If you’re a musician or simply a music lover who just happens to be between 18-28 years old, ya may have the chance to compete for your one true love by showin’ off your musical talents. You could win some totally awesome prizes, too. Ya know ya wanna apply. So just send an email to cmanzi@fuse.tv with your name, age, phone number, city, state, as well as at least two recent photos. Also, let ‘em know if you’re a musician or if ya just wanna date one. Hope to see ya on Fuse!
- June 3rd
Everyone needs a hero! And for Metallica fans, that hero is either James or Kirk. Well, now fans will get the chance to emulate ‘em with the release of Guitar Hero: Metallica. Yep, ya read that right. Activision has already announced plans to release a game devoted entirely to Aerosmith. Now, they’ve decided to indulge Metallica fans with a game filled with only Metallica’s thunderous anthems. Activision released a statement explaining their plans for the 2009 fiscal year:
“We [at Activision] plan to publish Guitar Hero: On Tour for the NDS, [as well as] Guitar Hero: Aerosmith, Guitar Hero: Metallica and Guitar Hero IV across multiple platforms.”
Tracklisting, a release date and other details are soon to follow. Hey, just ask and you shall receive. Why should Aerosmith fans have all the fun?
- June 2nd
The News of the World is reporting that the ashes of the late Kurt Cobain have been stolen from the Los Angeles home of his widow, Courtney Love. Some ashes were previously scattered near his home in Washington State and more at a New York Buddhist temple. But the little that has remained has been stored in a pink teddy bear-shaped bag, which also contains a lock of his hair. The culprit also got away with some jewelry and clothing. This is what Love has to say ‘bout the incident:
“I can’t believe anyone would take Kurt’s ashes from me. I find it disgusting and right now I’m suicidal. If I don’t get them back, I don’t know what I’ll do…They were all I had left of my husband. I used to take them everywhere with me just so I could feel Kurt was still with me. Now it feels like I have lost him all over again.”
- May 30th
System of a Down guitarist Daron Malakian and drummer John Dolmayan have joined forces to create a new side project, the band Scars on Broadway. Since System of a Down is currently takin’ a break, Scars on Broadway will be able to release their self-titled debut album, which is set to hit the streets on July 29th. The album, produced by Malakian, will feature 14 songs. They’re makin’ a few appearances along the way, including a recent gig at this year’s Coachella festival. Visit their MySpace page for more.
- May 29th
Hatebreed have promised their fans an all covers album, and they intend to deliver. The chosen bands are Metallica, Negative Approach, The Misfits, Obituary, Sheer Terror and many others. In a recent interview with the Miami New Times, frontman Jamey Jasta had this to say ‘bout the project:
”The record’s called “For the Lions.” All the artwork is based around all these different stone lions, and it’s basically because each band is like a lion in their own game, like a leader. So we tried to think of each genre and subgenre, and grab a band that really affected us. It’s coming with like a 20-page liner booklet with stuff from each guy about when we got the record, when we heard the band, how it affected us. So we did a lot. And only 12 are going to make it on, because that’s like, the industry rule or whatever.”
The release date has not been set as-of-yet, but they do plan for the album to hit the streets before the year’s end. Hatebreed fans are gonna love it, especially their cover of The Misfits’ “Hate Breeders”!
- May 28th
Hit the Lights have just posted a new song on their MySpace page. “Drop the Girl” will be featured on their upcoming album, Skip School, Start Fights, which is set to hit the streets on July 8th via Triple Crown Records. Click here to check it out!
- May 27th
311 are recording a new album! Yes, the funk/rap-rock/metal quintet are finally in the studio preparing for the release of their as-of-yet untitled 9th studio album, the first since 2005’s Don’t Tread on Me. The guys are plannin’ two full recordin’ sessions and shootin’ for a spring 2009 release. In the meantime, check ‘em out, along with Snoop Dogg, on the upcoming Unity Tour. Check out their site for dates and venues.
- May 23th
Yes, the foursome has decided to take a hiatus for at least a year. Singer Anthony Kiedis told Rolling Stone that the guys are exhausted from hectic scheduling and would like to take some time to concentrate on their personal lives. Kiedis wishes to spend more time with his family, and bassist Flea, as well as guitarist John Frusciante, are planning to work on individual projects. Here’s what Kiedis had to say ‘bout it:
”We’re disbanded for the moment. We took a very long time to make the ‘Stadium Arcadium’ record. It was a grueling, long haul…So we didn’t really stop until the tour ended last year. We were all emotionally and mentally zapped at the end of that run. The discussion was, ‘Let’s not do anything Red Hot Chili Peppers-related for a minimum of one year, and just live and breathe and eat and learn new things.’”
Kiedis suggested that he was startin’ to get a “tingle” about new song material. But he insists that it’s just a “tingle.” Stay posted on their return.
- May 22nd
Beck, Mike D, Flea, Gus Van Zant, Eddie Vedder, David Cross and other celebrity fans had their say when selecting the songs that will be featured on the upcoming Sonic Youth compilation, Hits Are for Squares, which will be released via Starbucks Records. Frontman Thurston Moore has this to say ‘bout it:
”In a way, Sonic Youth has a branded name. People know the name, but not necessarily our music, which might be a little too outsider for some. And when they do hear a little something, it doesn’t tell the whole story. I thought it would be interesting to have a CD available in a store like Starbucks where the casual consumer can sort of have access to [our music] more readily.”
Celebrity and non-celebrity fans alike can expect this handpicked compilation album on June 10th, including a new Sonic Youth recording. To see who picked what, check out the tracklisting below.
"Bull in the Heather," selected by Catherine Keener
"Sugar Kane," selected by Beck
"100%," selected by Mike D
"Kool Thing," selected by Radiohead
"Disappearer," selected by Portia De Rossi
"Superstar," selected by Diablo Cody
"Stones," selected by Allison Anders
"Tuff Gnarl," selected by Dave Eggers and Mike Watt
"Teenage Riot," selected by Eddie Vedder
"Shadow of a Doubt," selected by Michelle Williams
"Rain on Tin," selected by Flea
"Tom Violence," selected by Gus Van Zant
"Mary-Christ," selected by David Cross
"World Looks Red," selected by Chloe Sevigny
"Expressway to Yr Skull," selected by Flaming Lips
"Slow Revolution," exclusive new Sonic Youth recording
- May 21st
As previously reported, Max Bemis and Coby Linder of Say Anything have joined forces with Chris Conley and David Conway of Saves the Day to create the side project Two Tongues. Well, we know you’re just dyin’ for a taste, so visit their MySpace page to hear “Crawl,” the first release off of their upcoming debut album. We’ll keep ya posted on a release date.
- May 20th
Do ya think ya got the skills to direct a music video? Well, The Offspring wants to find out. The band has just announced a contest asking fans to create a video for their latest song, “Hammerhead.” The guys will hand pick the Grand Prize winner who will receive $10,000. But there’s more. If ya impress the viewers, the Most Viewed Submission winner will receive $3,000, and the Most Favorited (Yes, that’s what it’s called) winner will get $2,000. Not too shabby. Frontman Dexter Holland simply stated, “We are excited to see what people will do to add their perspective and talents to ‘Hammerhead.’” So fans get your creative minds workin’ and submit those videos. Visit The Offspring’s website for all the details.
- May 19th
Don’t miss the new season of Adult Swim’s Metalocalypse, a series chronicling the life of the greatest metal band in the galaxy, Dethklok. It started yesterday, May 18th, and will continue every Sunday at 12:00 AM. Creators Brendon Small and Tommy Blacha have some special treats in store for Nathan Explosion, William Murderface, Skwisgaar Skwigelf, Toki Wartooth, Pickles and fans, like the guys tryin’ their hands at public relations, the dating game and wedding registries. But best of all, Metalocalypse fans can see their favorite animated metal band on Dethklok’s upcoming second nationwide tour, The Dethtour. It takes off on June 2nd in Portland, OR and lands on July 6th in Austin, TX. Visit their MySpace page for the dates and locations.
- May 16th
Hey, when you’re on the road for months at a time, ya gotta refuel! And since ya can’t get to mom’s kitchen for a yummy meal, ya gotta go somewhere else. So Denny’s is participating in an Adopt-A-Band program. Yes, the late night restaurant is happily opening their doors to EndeverafteR, Forever the Sickest Kids, Foxy Shazam, Saving Abel, Switches and Take the Crown to receive free meals at any time while on tour. Every couple of months, Denny’s will add six more bands to the family. Of course nothin’ comes for free. All these bands gotta do is visit three Denny’s per month, blog about these visits on their websites and post some pictures of themselves enjoying some grub, like a plate of Moons Over My Hammy. But it doesn’t end there! These bands gotta know a little somethin’ about eatin’ out, so Taking Back Sunday, Eagles of Death Metal, The All-American Rejects and Plain White T’s will create Rock Star Menus, including some dishes created by the bands themselves. TBS’s dish will be available in August. Here’s what Michael Polydroff, Denny’s director of sales promotion and licensing, has gotta say about the adoption process:
“In value driven times, we know that bands obviously need to eat. We felt good about being able to offer support and have people out there drumming up support. We looked at a myriad of bands…We were looking for great bands who have a huge online following and who will work hard for us.”
Mmmm…what concoctions will they create? Maybe on your next late night jaunt to Denny’s, you and your buds will be drinkin’ coffee and grubbin’ out next to one of these bands. That would be awesome!
- May 15th
Finally, you’re gonna get a chance to see Foxboro Hot Tubs, Green Day’s alter ego! So when are tickets goin’ on presale? They’re not. If ya want ‘em (and ya know you do), ya gotta wait ‘til the day of the show to get ‘em at the venues’ box offices. Tickets are $20, but don’t think you’re gonna get some for all your buddies. There is a two ticket maximum per person. Check each local venue for specific times. Oh, no cameras will be allowed. It’s gonna be awesome, so head on down early to score your pair! Click here to check out the dates and venues. In the meantime, don’t forget to pick up your copy of their new album, Stop Drop and Roll!!!, set to hit the streets on May 20th!
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"Friends, We are sad to have to be writing you all this letter. Our brother, Allen Shellenberger, is currently in the hospital undergoing testing and treatment for a brain tumor that was just discovered. We are still not sure what his prognosis is and we are all standing by and waiting for test results to come in. Please say a prayer and keep him in your thoughts."
For more info and to post a comment to Allen, visit http://www.litlounge.com |
- May 14th
Cinematic Sunrise fans, wanna win tickets to see ‘em live? Well, it’s as simple as goin’ down to a participating Hot Topic store and fillin’ out a ballot. The winners will be drawn randomly to receive a pair of tickets to a Cinematic Sunrise show in their area.* Time is limited, so ya better hurry!
*This offer is not available online but is available at the following locations: Orland Square, IL, Great Lakes Mall, OH, Garden State Plaza, NJ, Deptford Mall, NJ, Crossgates Mall, NY, Queens Center, NY, North Star Mall, TX, Houston Galleria, TX, Town East Mall, TX, Superstition Springs Center, AZ, Mission Valley Center, CA, Brea Mall, CA, Valley Plaza Mall, CA and Universal City Walk, CA.
- May 9th
Say Anything guitarist/vocalist Max Bemis and drummer Coby Linder joined forces with Saves the Day guitarist/vocalist Chris Conley and bassist David Soloway to create the side project Two Tongues. The quartet has confirmed to Rolling Stone.com that they will be releasing their debut album later this year, as well as touring in the fall to support it. Here’s a bit of what Conley had to say: “We’re going to try to get a record deal sometime soon, but we want to have the album at least streaming online this summer.” Well, there ya go fans; ya got some new material to look forward to.
- May 8th
Perez Hilton, the Gossip Gangster himself, has joined forces with Hot Topic to introduce an exclusive line of accessories and apparel for women! Celebrity entertainment junkies can get their fashion fix of flip-flops, earrings, lip gloss, tees, totes and more! There’ll even be a journal for fans to jot down their own juicy gossip. Here’s what Perez had to say about the collaboration:
“It seems natural to make products that my readers will love and hopefully some guys will rock it, too. Some people might even call me a perfectionist; well that person would be me! I’m very passionate about my brand. I have extremely high standards, and I like to get my hands dirty…I’m most excited to finally see on the shelves products that are good and affordable for my readers. I actively sought out Hot Topic for that reason.”
And we’re thrilled to have him aboard! The line will be available at Hottopic.com and in all Hot Topic stores beginning in June. Hollywood starlets beware, ‘cause there’s a new breed of fashionistas steppin’ out!
- May 7th
Recently, Paramore took a brief hiatus and fans were concerned about a possible breakup. Please, say it ain’t so. Well, fear no more ‘cause Paramore is working on their third full-length album, which promises to be heavier than the previous two. Frontwoman Hayley Williams admits to being a fan herself of H2O and Set Your Goals, sayin’ that their sounds have been a huge influence on the new material along with the writings of Paramore’s very own guitarist, Josh Farro. Here’s what she said to MTV News:
“Josh writes most of the music, so he has got tons of ideas coming on like crazy right now, and it’s really inspiring and motivating me. So I started writing to some of the ideas while we were on tour, and hopefully with some time off, I’ll be able to focus and spend time on that. We’re hoping to have a good 20 songs done by the time we get off the road, and we’ll see where we go from there by the end of the year.”
Hayley and the boys are hoping to head back to Nashville for the recording process ‘cause there’s just no place like home. We’ll keep ya posted on the latest.
- May 5th
Nine Inch Nails has some great news for fans! Just months after the free online release of NIN’s Ghosts I-IV, Trent Reznor and company are givin’ their fans more of what they want, another album. The Slip is currently available on the band’s website as a free download and includes 10 tracks, artwork, as well as credits. The CD and vinyl versions will be released in July. Click here to view the tracklisting and to download The Slip. What? Ya still want more? Well, NIN has unveiled the dates for their upcoming North American tour. For fans that register as members of the band’s website, they well receive premium ticket access prior to the public sale. To check out dates, venues and the latest info, click here.
- May 2nd
Robert Smith and crew will release their 13th studio album on September 13th, and in anticipation of the as-of-yet untitled CD, The Cure plans to release a single from the album on the 13th day of each month leading to the release date. The first single, “The Only One,” will include a B-side track, “NY Trip,” and will be released on May 13th. The second single, "Freakshow,” will include “All Kinds of Stuff” as its B-side, and you can expect its release on (Yes, you guessed it!) June 13th. Both B-side tracks are exclusive and will not be on the upcoming album. The July 13th and August 13th singles have yet to be announced.
- April 30th
As some of you may know, Roger Waters of Pink Floyd lost an inflatable pig during his “Dark Side of the Moon” set at Coachella on Sunday. The giant flying pig has been a part of Pink Floyd’s stage show since its unveiling in 1977. Getting it back was prime concern for organizers who were offering a substantial sum of $10,000 to the person who recovered the graffiti-covered pig, as well as four lifelong tickets to the Coachella Festival. Fortunately, the pig made landfall on the driveways of two families in La Quinta, CA. They plan to share the reward and jointly claim notoriety. As for the rest of us, if ya haven’t seen a pig fly, that may have been your last chance. Although it wasn’t the original model, the precious pig was found tattered and torn.
- April 28th
Wanna see Metal for the Masses? How ‘bout Gigantour? Well, you’re in luck, ‘cause Hot Topic is givin’ you the chance to win a pair of tickets to either tour. If one of these tours is headin’ towards your hometown, all ya gotta do is go to your local Hot Topic store and fill out a ballot for your chance to win. Click here to check out the dates for each tour. And click here to find the HT nearest you. Good luck! See participating stores for details.
- April 24th
Yep, the rumors have been confirmed. The cover for Weezer’s sixth studio album and third self-titled release is red with a very bizarre image of the guys appearin’ as what some are dubbing “The New Village People: The Bartender, the Professor, the Cowboy and the Biker” (Thanks for that one, Pitchfork!). Though fans were speculating that this cover was some sort of hoax, it is indeed authentic. According to the band’s publicist, Jim Merlis, “Yes, that’s absolutely the cover, it’s what they chose. They looked at a bunch of mockups, and that’s the one they decided to go with. It’s not a joke.” Say it ain’t so, Rivers. Well fans, get used to it ‘cause it’s comin’ out June 24th. To check out the cover and to hear their latest release, “Pork and Beans,” click here.
- April 23rd
So you’ve dreamed of being the frontman or frontwoman of a rock band. Well, here’s your chance to live out your fantasy. As previously reported, STP frontman Scott Weiland and his now former band, Velvet Revolver, have parted ways. So the rest of the guys are searchin’ for a new frontman. But where are they gonna find one? On the Internet, of course. The band is building a website hoping to attract singers from all over the country. Here’s what guitarist Slash has gotta say ‘bout it:
‘We’re at the point of just listening to different things…it’s one of those kind of situations where you can’t really explain it to anybody because you’ll know it when you hear it. So I’m waiting to get that feeling of, ‘Yeah, that’s it.’”
In the meantime, the guys have an upcoming gig in Las Vegas where they will be joined by “a bunch of well-known people” to take over vocal duties. The website hasn’t been developed yet; but it’s comin’, so keep watch for it.
- April 22nd
Hot Topic’s bringin’ you an exclusive vinyl single from Disturbed. The 7” vinyl features “Inside the Fire” and another track off of their fourth studio album, Indestructible. It’s available right here, right now for only $6.99. So get it ‘cause ya can’t get it anywhere else. Here’s what guitarist Dan Donegan has to say about the forthcoming album:
“We wanted to get back to some of the elements that were maybe lacking on the last two records. David’s got a great ability to sing really melodically, but we wanted him to get back to the rhythmic, animalistic, rapid-fire delivery he’s known for. He’s very hard to touch when he does that, and we wanted to give him music to provoke that.”
So prepare yourself for a broad spectrum of emotional intensity. Be sure to pick up Indestructible, which is set to hit the streets on 6/3.
- April 21st
Are you ready for the greatest heavy metal event of 2008? If not, ya better get ready ‘cause Judas Priest, Heaven and Hell, Motorhead and Testament are uniting for the Metal Masters Tour. The 15-date tour will kick off on August 6th in Camden, NJ and will land on August 31st in Mountain View, CA. The tour will support Judas Priest’s concert album, Nostradamus, which is set to hit the streets on June 17th. Fans, expect to hear some tracks from the new album, but most of their set will include their classics. Judas Priest singer Rob Halford said, “As ever, we look forward to screaming out loud with our metal maniac fans when we hit the road. Thank you once again for your devotion and support. The Priest is back!” Want some tickets? Beginning this weekend, click here to get ‘em and to preview the Nostradamus cover art, as well as download the title track for free.
- April 18th
Anyone interested in gettin’ a Zune? How about a limited edition Joy Division Zune? Well, that’s what you can get. Microsoft is releasing a Zune that features Peter Saville’s artwork from Joy Division’s classic LP, Unknown Pleasures. This special player will be available in conjunction with the June 10th release of the Joy Division DVD via Genius Entertainment. Get the saddest little mp3 player ever and check out the DVD!
- April 17th
On October 20, 1972 at the Los Angeles Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, David Bowie and his band performed a gig as part of the Ziggy Stardust Tour. Most of you probably weren’t even dreamed of at this time, but Bowie and his crew were thinkin’ ahead by recording this piece of one of the greatest tours in rock n’ roll history. Bowie remarked about revisiting this performance to NME.com:
“I can tell that I’m totally into being Ziggy by this stage of our touring. It’s no longer an act; I am him…This would be around the tenth American show for us and you can hear that we are all pretty high on ourselves. We train wreck a couple of things. I miss some words, and sometimes you wouldn’t know that pianist Mike Garson was onstage with us, but overall, I really treasure this bootleg. [Guitarist] Mick Ronson is at his blistering best.”
This is the perfect opportunity for those of us too young to experience Bowie live as his alter ego, Ziggy. Now, you can check it out! The live album will be released on June 30th on both CD and double vinyl.
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