Mar 1

Michael Jackson considers Las Vegas offers
[source: NME.com] Michael Jackson is considering offers to perform in Las Vegas, his spokeswoman announced on Wednesday February 27.
The superstar, who recently returned to the US after a period of self-imposed exile following his acquittal in a child molestation case, has been "reviewing and evaluating" several Las Vegas deals.
"Mr Jackson has been presented numerous proposals - proposals which he has not solicited but were presented to him - several of which include performing in Las Vegas," spokeswoman Raymone K. Bain said.
"He is currently reviewing and evaluating each proposal. He does not believe that he is under any time constraint for making his decisions," she said.
The statement was issued to put to rest rumours Jackson could not find an offer to perform at a Las Vegas casino, and that he will be appearing on the American Idol television programme.
"Mr Jackson did not move to Las Vegas to shop a Vegas show," Bain said. "He is in Las Vegas because he likes the city and found it a convenient location to record with the artists, songwriters and producers who are working with him in the studio.
"[Also], Mr Jackson has no current plans to appear or perform on American Idol."
Jackson has recently been working with Black Eyed Peas frontman Will.I.Am on new material.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Michael-Jackson.aspx


Notorious BIG to release greatest hits album
[source: NME.com] P. Diddy's Bad Boy Records will mark the ten-year anniversary of Notorious BIG's death with the release of a greatest hits album on Monday March 5.
BIG (real name: Christopher Wallace) was fatally shot on March 9, 1997, in Los Angeles and Diddy (real name: Sean Combs) - who was BIG's long-time friend and associate - has chosen to remember the occasion through music.
"He was able to open doors and create opportunities for hip-hop as a whole," Combs explained. "I wanted to celebrate his legacy, life and work as we mourn his senseless death ten years ago. The release of Greatest Hits makes it clear to the world why Notorious BIG is the greatest rapper of all time."
The compilation will also feature two previously unreleased tracks: "Runnin' Ya Mouth" and "Want That Old Thing Back".

Greatest Hits tracklisting:

"Juicy"
"Big Poppa"
"Hypnotize"
"One More Chance Remix"
"Get Money"
"Warning"
"Dead Wrong"
"Who Shot Ya"
"Ten Crack Commandments"
"Notorious Thugs"
"Notorious"
"Nasty Girl"
"Unbelievable"
"Niggaz Bleed"
"Runnin' Ya Mouth"
"Want That Old Thing Back"
"Lovin' You Tonight"

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Notorious-B-I-G-The.aspx


P Diddy accused of assault
[source: NME.com] In more P Diddy news, the rapper has been accused of battery at a Hollywood hotel on the night of the Academy Awards.
The incident allegedly happened at the Roosevelt hotel near the Kodak Theatre, according to Los Angeles Police spokesman Jason Lee.
It is alleged real estate agent Gerard Rechnitzer was attacked shortly after 2.30am on Sunday February 25 after Diddy was talking to his girlfriend.
Police confirmed they took a report from someone who accused the rapper of battery.
The document, parts of which are blacked out, resembles a "receipt" police typically give to someone who lodges a complaint.
The rapper's publicist, Megan Prophet, has declined to comment on the incident.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/P-Diddy.aspx


Jay Kay calls it a day
[source: NME.com] Jamiroquai singer Jay Kay has quit music after splitting with his record company.
The frontman said he's sick of touring and wants to settle down and start a family.
The move comes after he recently parted ways with record label SonyBMG.
"I haven't been happy there for a while," Jay said. "I've had some ups and downs but in the end the downs were just too many. When we talked about me leaving, I jumped at the chance. I'm bored. I don't want to go back on the road. We all need a rest, to be honest. I don't need the money or a deal.
"One minute I would be promoting a single with one team and the next they brought different people in and expected me to go along with it. There was no way in hell I was doing that. I'm just tired of the format and wanted to call it a day with them."
Jamiroquai have sold 27 million albums since forming in the early 1990s. They released seven albums and an eighth LP was due to be released later this year.
"I might be back if I get my inspiration again, but who knows?" Jay told the Daily Mirror. "All I'm going to do now is fly my helicopter and look for the right lady to have children with."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jamiroquai.aspx


Jet announce Aussie tour
After dazzling on the main stage at the Big Day Out, Melbourne rockers Jet are heading home again in late May for another national tour.
The third single (and title track) from second longplayer Shine On is released Saturday March 17. The song is a tribute to Jet brothers Nick and Chris Cester's father, who died from cancer in August 2004.
The song was recently featured on the tear-jerking series finalé of The OC. Tickets for shows go on sale Thursday March 22.

Tour dates:

Friday May 25 - Palais Theatre, Melbourne
Saturday May 26 - Bass In The Grass Festival, Darwin
Friday June 1 - Metro City, Perth
Sunday June 3 - The Tivoli, Brisbane
Tuesday June 5 - University Of Canberra Refectory
Thursday June 7 - Enmore Theatre, Sydney
Saturday June 9 - Venue TBC, Adelaide

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jet.aspx


Seal loses court battle
Seal has lost a court battle that will now see him pay a former manager more than AU$1million in missing royalties.
The singer, whose real name is Seal Henry Olusegun Olumide Adeola Samuel, is married to supermodel Heidi Klum and originally hit the top of the charts back in 1990 with "Crazy".
Yesterday, England's Court Of Appeal dismissed Seal's challenge to an earlier ruling, and ordered him to pay former manager John Wadlow an interim payment of AU$1,168,000 in unpaid commissions for his first two solo LPs (which both hit number one in the UK charts).
Seal is currently working on a new album, the follow-up to 2003's Seal IV.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Seal.aspx


Billy Thorpe memorial planned
Rock promoter Michael Chugg has announced there will be a public memorial for Aussie legend Billy Thorpe, who died this week from a sudden heart attack, aged 60.
A public memorial service will be held Sunday afternoon at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, but Chugg says it's not a concert. Rather, it's a dignified way for family, industry associates and fans to pay their respects. "We'll release details as they come to hand," Chugg said in a statement yesterday, admitting he's had phone calls from Thorpe's friends across the globe, including Fleetwood Mac drummer Mick Fleetwood.
"It is a tribute, it's not a concert. We want the public to come along, but we want them to come along to pay respect and not for any other reason. We want to get across that it is a very sad day but it will also be a great tribute."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Billy-Thorpe.aspx


Silverchair unveil album details
With new LP Young Modern due out on Saturday March 31, Silverchair have revealed details of the album's tracklisting.
"We are really excited the album is finally coming out this month," bass player Chris Joannou admitted. "It should be fun."
The LP's first single, "Straight Lines", is the most added song at Australian radio this week, while the group have recently returned from Canada and the US, where they performed sold-out gigs in Toronto, New York and Los Angeles.

Young Modern tracklisting:

"Young Modern Station"
"Straight Lines"
"If You Keep Losing Sleep"
"Reflections Of A Sound"
"Those Thieving Birds (Part 1)"
"Strange Behaviour"
"Those Thieving Birds (Part 2)"
"The Man That Knew Too Much"
"Waiting All Day"
"Mind Reader"
"Low"
"Insomnia"
"All Across The World"

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Silverchair.aspx


Good Charlotte guitarist pens children's book
Billy Martin, guitarist with US pop-punk act Good Charlotte, has written and illustrated a children's book.
"Damien McMurray: A Boy And His Bat is about a boy and his pet bat," Martin said. "The bat gets let out of his cage and Damien goes on a little journey trying to find his pet.
"It's something I've been wanting to do for a really long time and I hope it's just one of lots of books that I get to put out."
Martin's band actually took their name from a kid's book, Good Charlotte: The Girls Of Good Day Orphanage by Carol Beach York. Their new LP, Good Morning Revival, is due out on Tuesday March 27.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Good-Charlotte.aspx


MTV Australian Video Music Awards announced
Black Eyed Peas star Fergie will head to Australia in April to host the MTV Australian Video Music Awards.
Fergie (real name: Stacy Ann Ferguson) has won several Grammy awards for Black Eyed Peas tracks like "Shut Up", "Hey Mamma", "Pump It" and "My Humps", while back in September she launched her solo LP, The Dutchess.
Joining her on the MTV stage is actor/musician Jared Leto with his band, 30 Seconds To Mars.
"It's pretty amazing," Leto, 35, said of his impending visit.
"We're really looking forward to it. It's an exciting time to come down and perform."
Artists nominated this year include Pink, Justin Timberlake, Eskimo Joe, Wolfmother, Hilltop Hoods and Eminem. Winners will be announced during a public ceremony held at Acer Arena, Sydney, on Sunday April 29.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Black-Eyed-Peas.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Fergie.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/30-Seconds-To-Mars.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Eskimo-Joe.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Hilltop-Hoods.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Wolfmother.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Justin-Timberlake.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Eminem.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Pink.aspx

Feb 28

Rapper's kids release footwear line
[source: NME.com] The daughters of former Run DMC rapper Reverend Joseph "Run" Simmons are set to repeat their father’s achievements by releasing their own footwear line.
Vanessa and Angela Simmons have created Pastry Footwear, a colourful, athletic line aimed at young women.
The collection will include variations like Chocolate Mousse, Strawberry Shortcake and Red Velvet, with each pair packaged with a tube of matching lip-gloss.
The designs are scheduled to hit US stores on Friday March 23, almost 20 years after Run DMC designed their own line for Adidas.
The development will also be chronicled in the new series of MTV reality show Run’s House, which features the day-to-day activities of the Simmons household, and will air in the spring.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Run-Dmc.aspx


Deep Purple withdraw live album
[source: NME.com] Deep Purple have asked for one of their live albums to be withdrawn from sale after singer Ian Gillan claimed the gig, recorded in Birmingham in 1993, was one of their worst ever concerts.
Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Gillan said the album had been re-released without his consent and attributed the poor performance to tension within the band.
“It was coming to the end, it was awful,” he said.
The album, NEC, is now being recalled by SonyBMG, who have said they will investigate why the singer was not consulted.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Deep-Purple.aspx


James Brown DNA dispute settled
[source: NME.com] The body of James Brown is to be subjected to DNA testing following several paternity claims since his death last year (Monday December 25) at the age of 73.
A lawyer for the soul singer’s partner Tomi Rae Hynie has confirmed an agreement has been reached over obtaining the samples, leading to a cancellation of a hearing previously scheduled for Tuesday March 6. Hynie was unhappy with the way the trustees wanted the DNA collected.
Hynie claims she is the singer’s fourth wife and has a child with James Brown, James Jr. She also says she has the paternity test to prove it.
Meanwhile, attorneys for the soul star have claimed Brown and Hynie were not legally married when he died because she was already married when they made their wedding vows.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/James-Brown.aspx


Portishead make surprise live debut
[source: NME.com] Portishead made a surprise return to the live stage on Sunday February 25 at a small music bar in Bristol.
It was the reclusive band’s first live appearance since 2005’s Tsunami Benefit Show.
Under the guise of Grumpy Man DJs, band members Geoff Barrow, Adrian Uttley and Beth Gibbons surprised both gig-goers and venue staff at Mr Wolfs with a short set that included Portishead classic “Wandering Star” amid a host of new, untitled material.
Portishead haven't released an album since 1997’s self-titled LP.
A witness in the audience told NME.COM: “It was a brief but memorable experience. If the new song is a measure of the quality of the forthcoming album, Portishead fans are in for a treat later this year.”

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Portishead.aspx


Billy Thorpe 1946-2007
The Australian music industry lost one of its most legendary rockers last night, with the untimely death of Billy Thorpe, former frontman for Billy Thorpe & The Aztecs.
Suffering major cardiac arrest at home after waking at 1am, 60-year-old Thorpe was taken to St. Vincent’s Hospital by his family before being pronounced dead less than an hour later after suffering a second attack. Born in Manchester, England, on March 29, 1946, Thorpe grew up in Brisbane and later became one of the biggest stars of the 60s thanks to hit covers such as “Poison Ivy” and “Mashed Potato”.
Beefing up his rock image in the 70s, Thorpe reinvented his sound and went on to release the legendary “Most People I Know Think That I’m Crazy”.
Thorpe maintained a successful career until his death. His good friend, promoter Michael Chugg, spoke to the Sydney Morning Herald this morning.
“[Thorpe’s] tour manager, Norm Sweeney, told me yesterday that everybody around him was blown away by how happy he was and how great the future was looking. For this to happen is just a terrible tragedy.”

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Billy-Thorpe.aspx


Foxy Brown heads to church
With yet another arrest for battery to her name, US rapper Foxy Brown turned up in a Brooklyn church on Monday February 26 to tell her version of events. Brown – known to her family as Inga Marchand – said she was simply going to the bathroom when she was rudely interrupted by the store’s owner, thrown out and dragged down the street by police.
“I was exposed from the waist down on the toilet,” she told the congregation at Brown Memorial Baptist Church in Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill area.
“The only crime I’m guilty of is being a young black woman.”
Meanwhile, the store’s owner, Hayssam Ghoneim, said he asked the 27-year-old performer to leave because he was closing but the rapper refused and spat on him. He claims to possess a surveillance video that proves the rapper left the toilet door open the entire time.
Police say Brown was arrested after she resisted attempts to calm her.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Foxy-Brown.aspx


Scorsese teams with Jagger
With his first, long-deserved Oscar under his belt for The Departed, acclaimed US film director Martin Scorsese is teaming with The Rolling Stones to make a movie spanning three decades in the music biz.
The 64-year-old director will oversee The Long Play, a film currently in the works with Mick Jagger’s production company, Jagged Films (responsible for the movie Enigma), and Hollywood studio Paramount Pictures.
Jagger and Scorsese recently collaborated on a Rolling Stones live documentary, which is set for release later this year.
Jagger reportedly came up with the idea for the film several years ago; its script will be written by The Departed’s screenwriter, William Monahan.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Rolling-Stones-The.aspx


New York Dolls head to Australia
Influential 70s punks New York Dolls are heading to Australia for the first time to headline their own shows and appear at the inaugural V Festival.
Formed in 1972, the Dolls' cross-dressing glam was a precursor to everyone from David Bowie to Sex Pistols. They broke up just three years later.
UK crooner Morrissey brought the surviving members together in 2004 for the Meltdown Festival and now the Dolls have reformed (minus original guitarist Johnny Thunders, drummer Jerry Nolan and bassist Arthur Kane).
Tickets are on sale now.

Tour dates:

Saturday March 24 – St James, Auckland
Monday March 26 – Hi-Fi Bar, Melbourne
Wednesday March 28 – The Metro, Sydney
Thursday March 29 – Tivoli, Brisbane
Saturday March 31 – V Festival, Sydney
Sunday April 1 – V Festival, Gold Coast
Tuesday April 3 – Memorial Drive, Adelaide
Wednesday April 4 – Sydney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/New-York-Dolls-The.aspx


Jessica Simpson speaks sense!
When it comes to maintaining your dignity, US pop singer Jessica Simpson has a word of advice for other young starlets: keep your underwear on. Simpson, who’s now stepping out with “Your Body Is A Wonderland” singer John Mayer after her divorce from Nick Lachey, said she would be horrified to have paparazzi snapping her private parts.
“I don’t understand what’s going on with that,” she revealed. “I’m the kind of girl who always puts my hand between my legs when I’m getting out of a car if I’m wearing a short skirt. I always wear underwear. It’s a personal rule.”

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jessica-Simpson.aspx


Britney’s ex speaks out on ecstasy overdose
Britney Spears' ex-husband has revealed details of her drug and alcohol binges.
Childhood friend Jason Alexander, who was married to Spears for just 55 hours in 2004, claims the pop star had a near-fatal overdose on pure ecstasy and also engaged in a threesome with him.
“I remember looking down at her all crumpled in the tub with the water coming down,” Alexander told London’s Sunday Times of a night the couple spent together in Las Vegas.
“She looked so white and lifeless. I thought she was dead. I thought, ‘This b##ch is going to die right here in front of me'.”
Alexander said they also invited a local dancer into bed with them.
“We used ecstasy at night to party and cocaine during the day to stay awake,” he claims. “Then we would take downers like Valium or Vicodin to come down and rest.”

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Britney-Spears.aspx

Feb 27

Bobby Brown arrested
[source: NME.com] Bobby Brown was arrested on Sunday February 25 for the second time this year.
The singer, who's currently going through a divorce from pop diva Whitney Houston after 14 years of marriage, was picked up on a warrant for failing to appear at a child support hearing last October.
Police reportedly arrested Brown while he was watching his daughter at a cheerleading competition at Attleboro High School in Massachusetts.
Police said Brown was cooperative, so they allowed him to drive to the station after the competition.
Last October, Brown paid AU$13,870 in delinquent child support from a former relationship after being threatened with arrest.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Bobby-Brown.aspx


Dr Dre reveals new album details
[source: NME.com] Dr Dre has revealed details of his long-awaited forthcoming album, Detox.
The California rapper has recruited the likes of Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z and Busta Rhymes for the follow-up to 1999's 2001.
"I'm trying to get everybody that I've ever worked with over the years to appear on the record," Dre told Los Angeles radio station Power 106.
The rapper confirmed he intends to release the album later this year.
"Trust me, this will be worth the wait. I'm trying to make this the one they remember me for," he said.
"It's a lot of pressure but I'm feeling good about it. I feel like I'm my worst critic and if I'm loving it, everyone else will. I'm trying to put 12 or 13 songs on the album. I'm not totally sure about the month but it will be definitely be out this year."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Dr-Dre.aspx


Rage Against The Machine announce more summer shows
[source: NME.com] LA rockers Rage Against The Machine have been added to the acclaimed Rock The Bells hip-hop festival bill for three dates across the US during the summer.
The legendary quartet have already been confirmed to play a reunion gig – their first in seven years – at this year's Coachella festival in April but due to high demand and subsequent touting, the band have agreed to more gigs.
Rock The Bells organiser Chang Weisberg said the shows will be the band's last for 2007.
"Coachella is first, that's the granddaddy. And now these three represent a very, very special thing," Weisberg said.

Rock The Bells dates:

Saturday July 28 – Randall's Island, New York
Saturday August 11 – National Orange Show Events Centre, San Bernardino
Saturday August 18 – Venue TBC, San Francisco

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Rage-Against-The-Machine.aspx


The Coral speak about new album
[source: NME.com] The Coral are close to releasing their new record, guitarist Bill Ryder-Jones has confirmed.
Speaking on the label's MySpace site, Ryder-Jones said some of the band are going to New York next week to master the album.
"Then, if all goes to plan, the latest longplayer from The Coral should be in your grubby little hands very soon," he said.
The band have spent more than two months in Noel Gallagher's Wheeler End studio and have described the follow-up to 2005's The Invisible Invasion as "Zappa sharing a jazz omelette with Gnarls Barkley".

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Coral-The.aspx


Britney's kids and ex visit her in rehab
Kevin Federline has visited estranged wife Britney Spears in rehab to offer support.
Bringing along their two children (17-month-old Sean Preston and five-month-old Jayden James), it's the second visit Federline has made to the Promises Treatment Centre in Malibu, California, where a month-long stay will set you back AU$59,000.
According to reports, Federline and Spears are now on good terms, with Spears' reported breakdown convincing Federline to back down on custody issues.
A friend of K-Fed has told US mag People he "is finally treating her with a bit of care for once".
"The kids are his number one priority and they always have been. He's so stressed out right now. He only wants the best for Britney and the kids."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Britney-Spears.aspx


Boy George loses LPs on way to Australia
Having landed in Australia on Saturday February 24 for a celebrity DJ set at Brisbane's Met Club, Boy George – the eccentric soul singer who shot to fame fronting UK pop act Culture Club back in the 80s – was in for a rude shock.
Having flown in from Auckland, the DJ discovered his entire record collection was missing after the airline left the discs in New Zealand.
Representatives for the star revealed he was forced to make a quick dash to a local record store, where he bought up big in order to get through the show.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Boy-George.aspx


Ludacris loses Dad
US rapper Ludacris – real name: Chris Bridges – has thanked fans for their support following the death of his father, 52-year-old Wayne Brian Bridges. Earlier this month, the 29-year-old rapper won two Grammy awards, which he dedicated to his father during the ceremony.
"Mr Wayne Bridges, I love you to death," he said at the time.
A statement from the rapper's family was released yesterday.
"We are overwhelmed by the generous outpouring of love, condolences and support from family members, friends, fans and the many well-wishers," it read. "We thank you for your prayers and hope you will understand our need for privacy during this sorrowful time."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Ludacris.aspx


Michael to spearhead Jackson 5 reunion?
US reports suggest pop icon Michael Jackson is set to jump on the reunion bandwagon and bring together his family for a Jackson 5 stadium tour.
Los Angeles celebrity journo Roger Friedman, who works at Fox News, claimed Michael met with his brothers Jermaine, Randy, Marlon, Tito and Jackie, as well as his sisters Janet and Rebbie, to discuss a possible tour for late 2007.
"A successful Jackson family tour could change everything for Michael," Freidman said.
"It would also be a financial boon to a family that needs cash in a hurry."
Jackson has spent the last eight months working on his comeback LP, a record that features Black Eyed Peas frontman Will.I.Am.
If a tour takes place, it will be Jackson's first world tour since 1997.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jackson-5.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Michael-Jackson.aspx


Manic Street Preachers give away free track
Welsh three-piece Manic Street Preachers are giving away a new song to whet fans' appetites before the release of upcoming LP Send Away The Tigers.
The tune, "Underdogs", is available now on the band's website.
Meanwhile, bassist Nicky Wire has described the album, due out on Monday May 7 via Columbia Records (distributed via SonyBMG here in Australia), as "all-out punk metal".
"[The songs] could have been on [former Manics LP] Generation Terrorist. It's a celebration of the unique, a post Everything Must Go address to the fans, ten years after the first time we did it.
"In a Britain dominated by generic, one-diametrical multi branding, let us embrace the difference – the downtrodden, the losers and the opposition. Let us fall in love with individuality again."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Manic-Street-Preachers.aspx


Melissa Etheridge wins Oscar
US singer-songwriter Melissa Etheridge landed a surprise Academy Award for "I Need To Wake Up", which appeared in hard-hitting documentary An Inconvenient Truth.
Before performing the song during the Oscar ceremony, Etheridge told reporters she was uncommonly nervous and would try to avoid eye contact with any famous types in the front row.
"You go, 'I'll just look at the camera', and there's a billion people out there," she laughed. "It's a little crazy."
Etheridge has sold more than 27 million albums worldwide.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Melissa-Etheridge.aspx

Feb 23

My Morning Jacket host prom in Georgia
[source: NME.com] My Morning Jacket will host two "prom" nights at the 40 Watt Club in Athens, Georgia.
The US rockers intend to give fans who never attended their high school prom – a traditional American ritual – a second chance to go to the dance by creating a futuristic under-the-sea themed evening.
"For all of you who missed your prom back in 1956 or 1986, or 2006 for that matter, we will be hosting the first annual MMJ two-night prom," the band wrote on their website.
"The first time we walked through those hallowed 40 Watt doors we said to ourselves, 'This place looks perfect for a prom!'. Now the dream will be a reality."
In order to be admitted to the concerts, which take place on Tuesday March 6 and Wednesday March 7, guests must wear prom or ocean-themed attire, including tuxes, suits, robot, mermaid and lobster costumes.
And, in keeping with traditional prom custom, My Morning Jacket plan to provide cake and balloons.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/My-Morning-Jacket.aspx


No Eurovision for Morrissey
[source: NME.com] Morrissey will not represent the UK at this year's Eurovision Song Contest, according to the BBC.
At the beginning of the year, the broadcaster said they had been in talks with the former Smiths frontman and it looked likely he would represent the UK in the competition.
But a BBC Eurovision spokesperson has now confirmed the 47-year-old will not take part.
"We were in discussions with him and other artists, and he had been genuinely interested, but the timing wasn't right," a spokesman told The Telegraph.
Apparently the singer could have been put off by the public vote that chooses the UK's entry.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Morrissey.aspx


Velvet Revolver release studio footage
[source: NME.com] Velvet Revolver have released a video diary featuring footage of the band recording their forthcoming second album, Liberated, in a Los Angeles studio.
Fans can watch the in-studio shenanigans at www.velvetrevolver.com.
Meanwhile, the band's record label have listed the album's international release date as Monday June 4, but an official release date is yet to be confirmed.
Velvet Revolver issued debut album Contraband in June 2004.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Velvet-Revolver.aspx


The Darkness to reform
[source: NME.com] The Darkness have announced they are working on new material without former lead singer Justin Hawkins. Bassist Richie Edwards has taken over vocals.
"It's finally happened," Edwards said. "The big red button has been pressed and we've officially started our album."
The new material won't, however, be released under The Darkness name.
Hawkins quit the band in 2006 after checking himself into The Priory for an alleged cocaine addiction, which he claimed cost him more than AU$372,000.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Darkness-The.aspx


Paul Weller pens track for pals
[source: NME.com] Regular Ocean Colour Scene collaborator Paul Weller has written one of the songs that will appear on the band's new album.
The former Jam frontman's "For Dancers Only" will appear on On The Leyline, which is due at the end of April. The album's first single, "I Told You So", will be released a week earlier.

On The Leyland tracklisting:

"I Told You So"
"On The Leyline"
"Waiting"
"For Dancers Only"
"Man In The Middle"
"I Just Got Over You"
"Go To Sea Boys"
"These Days I'm Tired"
"You'll Never"
"Don't Get Me"
"Loneliest Girl In The Whole Wide World"
"Mr Brown"
"Two Lovers"
"Daylight"

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Paul-Weller.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Ocean-Colour-Scene.aspx


Eskimo Joe hit the road
Fremantle trio Eskimo Joe will head out on the road in May for a national tour in support of award-winning LP Black Fingernails, Red Wine.
The Beating Like A Drum tour kicks off in Brisbane on Friday May 4, before heading to North Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania, Northern Territory and New South Wales. Dates in South Australia and Western Australia will be announced soon.
Tickets are on sale from Thursday March 8.

Tour dates:

Friday May 4 – Tivoli, Brisbane
Wednesday May 9 – Brothers Leagues Club, Cairns
Thursday May 10 – Bombay Rock, Townsville
Friday May 11 – Seagulls, Tweed Heads
Saturday May 12 – Alexandra Hills, Brisbane
Thursday May 17 – Palais Theatre, Melbourne
Saturday May 19 – Hobart City Hall, Hobart
Sunday May 20 – Albert Hall, Launceston
Saturday May 26 – Bass In The Grass, Darwin
Wednesday May 30 – Wollongong Uni, Wollongong
Friday June 1 – Enmore Theatre, Sydney

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Eskimo-Joe.aspx


ARIA #1 chart awards unveiled
Some of the biggest names in Australian music gathered to celebrate their success yesterday, picking up gongs at the ARIA #1 Chart Awards.
Hosted by Australian Idol/Channel [V] presenter James Mathieson, the ceremony saw awards presented to the 14 local artists who landed a number one record in 2006.
Fresh from their win at the WAMi Awards the previous night in Perth, Eskimo Joe performed new single "New York" and received recognition for chart-topper Black Fingernails, Red Wine.
Other acts collecting trophies (either in person or via satellite) included Something For Kate, Human Nature, Hilltop Hoods, John Farnham, Kylie Minogue, Lee Harding, Youth Group, Damien Leith, Kasey Chambers, Crowded House, Kate DeAraugo, TV Rock, comedian The 12th Man and The Living End.
"ARIA would like to congratulate the 14 artists who achieved number ones across this period," ARIA chairman Denis Handlin said.
"The chart-topping success of these artists deserves to be celebrated. It also highlights how much enjoyment Australian artists give to the public, as well as the vast array of excellent talent we have."

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http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kylie-Minogue.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kasey-Chambers.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Youth-Group.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-12th-Man.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Human-Nature.aspx


No Doubt to reform
Platinum blonde pop queen Gwen Stefani has confirmed she will team with her No Doubt bandmates in 2008 to record a new LP.
Work can't begin, however, until Stefani finishes promoting her latest solo album, The Sweet Escape.
No Doubt shot to fame in 1995 with second LP Tragic Kingdom and have recently been on hiatus while Stefani forges a solo career.
"I got an idea in my head about what we could do and now that's all I can think about," Stefani told UK radio station Galaxy this week.
"And [that's] doing a No Doubt record."
Earlier this month, bandmate Tom Dumont revealed he was working on new songs with the rest of the band, guitarist (and Stefani's ex) Tony Kanal and drummer Adrian Young.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/No-Doubt.aspx


Christina not pregnant
Christina Aguilera, who picked up a Grammy recently for Best Female Pop Performance, has denied reports she's expecting a child with hubby Jordan Bratman.
A sales assistant at exclusive Beverly Hills kids store Bellini told reporters from the New York Times the couple were discussing their supposed pregnancy with staff, and insisted Aguilera was over the moon about the news and determined to find out the baby's sex before the birth.
A publicist for the 26-year-old singer, however, denied the conversation ever took place.
"[Christina] said it is not true and she wasn't in Bellini," her publicist insisted.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Christina-Aguilera.aspx


The Vines head out on tour
Following sets across the country with the Big Day Out last month, The Vines have announced plans for more live appearances, including April festival dates in Perth, Sydney and Hobart.
The band had been absent from the music scene for two years after singer-songwriter Craig Nicholls was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome (a mild form of autism). They made a stunning comeback at last year's Splendour In The Grass festival and continued that form into this year's Big Day Out concerts.
The new shows will see Sydney indie group Red Riders join The Vines, as well as Perth rockers The Silents.
Tickets go on sale Friday March 9.

Tour dates:

Thursday April 5 – Blackjack Festival, Perth
Friday April 6 – The Great Escape, Newington
Saturday April 7 – Southern Roots Festival, Hobart
Thursday April 12 – Governor Hindmarsh, Adelaide
Friday April 13 – Prince Of Wales, Melbourne
Saturday April 14 – Tivoli, Brisbane

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Vines-The.aspx


Paul Kelly pays tribute to Shane Warne
Paul Kelly has written a song about cricketing hero Shane Warne.
"The Shane Warne Song", which can be seen on YouTube, covers not only the cricketer's bowling expertise but also his text messaging habits.
"I was watching this year's Sydney Ashes test on TV around the same time as I listening to Lord Kitchener's (aka Aldwyn Roberts) great calypso song, "London Is The Place For Me"," Kelly said.
"The Kitchener tune suggested to me a new set of lyrics based on the adventures of Shane Warne."
The tongue-in-cheek lyrics include: "Mr Warne on his phone sent a lot of text 'cause he liked to have a lot of sex. Took a prohibited pill to lose his love handles, said 'Mum gave it to me', it was a terrible scandal. I wonder, what would Warney do next?."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Paul-Kelly.aspx

Feb 22

Guns N' Roses guitarist to write autobiography
[source: NME.com] Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash will complete a manuscript for his autobiography later this year.
According to New York Business magazine, the star, now in Velvet Revolver, recently sold his autobiography to publishing house HarperCollins and will work with writer Anthony Bozza, who helped Mötley Crüe rocker Tommy Lee pen his memoir, Tommyland.
Slash left Guns N' Roses in 1996 after an acrimonious split with lead singer Axl Rose and has no part in the band's current incarnation.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Guns-N-Roses.aspx


The Streets plan new album
[source: NME.com] The Streets have begun work on the follow-up to 2006's The Hardest Way To Make An Easy Living.
Frontman Mike Skinner says the group have adopted a new approach to recording.
"I decided to write all the lyrics before I started with the music, the complete opposite of normal," he revealed on the band's website.
Skinner said a number of "live" instruments are involved, including piano, trumpet, harp, violin and flute.
"I've never written an album featuring conversations with both an alien and the devil," he added.
A release date for the record has yet to be announced.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Streets-The.aspx


Michael Jackson sued by hospital
[source: NME.com] Michael Jackson is facing a lawsuit from the family of a woman who died two years ago.
Manuela Gomez Ruiz's family claim she was moved from her two-bed trauma unit to make room for Jackson when he arrived with flu symptoms.
The lawsuit was filed last Thursday against Jackson and the Marian Medical Centre in California.
The family had previously complained that Ruiz, who was on life support, was moved to make way for Jackson on February 15, 2005. The singer missed his court appearance that day due to illness, while Ruiz suffered a heart attack in the evening and died.
A statement from the medical centre claimed the suit was without merit and merely "another frivolous claim to generate publicity".
"Manuela Ruiz was dying," prosecution attorney James McKiernan retorted. Michael Jackson was also dying… not to go to court that day."
Yahoo reports the suit alleged intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligent infliction of emotional distress, elder abuse, false imprisonment and conspiracy by Jackson, Marian Medical Centre and Catholic Heathcare West, which owns the hospital.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Michael-Jackson.aspx


Van Morrison up for alternative Oscar
[source: NME.com] Legendary singer-songwriter Van Morrison will receive an Oscar Wilde award on Thursday February 22 for his contributions to cinema.
The ceremony will be attended by a number of big names in the American and European film industry, with the award presented by Al Pacino.
The event marks the second annual Oscar Wilde awards and celebrates Irish contribution to film. The bash is hosted by the US-Ireland Alliance, a non-profit organisation that aims to strengthen ties between the film industries in the US and Ireland.
The music of Van Morrison has formed the soundtrack to almost 50 films, including classic road film Thelma And Louise and recent Martin Scorsese thriller The Departed.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Van-Morrison.aspx


James Brown burial place confirmed
[source: NME.com] The children and partner of soul legend James Brown have finally agreed on a burial spot for the singer, nearly two months after his death.
The location of the site is confidential but it's believed the burial will take place in the next few days.
James Brown's partner, Tomi Rae Hynie, had previously said the singer wished to be laid to rest on his South Carolina estate, but due to a current legal battle over control of the property, this plan was scrapped.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/James-Brown.aspx


Van Halen reform… and then split
Having recently announced they'd started rehearsing together for the first time in 20 years, it appears 80s rockers Van Halen have split before taking the stage for a show.
Halen's reunion was set to feature two founding members: singer David Lee Roth and guitarist Eddie Van Halen, with Wolfgang Van Halen – Eddie's son – rounding out the group on bass guitar. Former member Michael Anthony wasn't interested.
Now, however, according to US booking agency Pollstar, the mooted 40-date national tour has been put "indefinitely on hold".

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Van-Halen.aspx


Britney leaves rehab
Troubled pop star Britney Spears has left the rehab centre she checked into just 24 hours earlier.
Spears entered Promises Malibu Alcohol & Drug Rehab Treatment Facility earlier this week. Now, according to the singer's management, she's back home, where she intends to "continue to seek treatment".
"She's getting her life together," Spears' producer, Sean Garrett, told People magazine.
"She's getting it where it needs to be. She just needs time to herself. She's not crazy; she's young, she's rich and she does what she wants to do."
The singer's manager has reassured fans her two young sons, 17-month-old Sean Preston and five-month-old Jayden James, are okay.
"The kids are being well taken care of," Larry Rudolph insisted.
Meanwhile, the mother of Britney's first husband, childhood pal Jason Alexander, admitted she was concerned.
"She is obviously in a lot of pain," Doreen Seal offered, "and needs help immediately."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Britney-Spears.aspx


WAMi winners
The 2007 WAMi Awards were held last night to honour the best music talent in Western Australia.
Arguably the biggest night for the state's industry, the WAMis featured performances by Eskimo Joe, Little Birdy, Dave Hole, The Stems and Double Entendre.
Nominated for six WAMis, the big winner of the night was Karnivool, who took home five gongs – Most Popular Act, Most Popular Live Act, Best Hard Rock Act, Best Guitarist and Best Male Vocalist – for latest LP Themata.
Art rockers Snowman won Most Popular Album, beating the likes of Eskimo Joe and Bob Evans. The four-piece also won Best Rock Act and Most Popular Music Video Award ("You Are a Casino").
Eskimo Joe, meanwhile, scored WAMis for Most Popular Single/EP ("Black Fingernails, Red Wine") and Best Commercial Pop Act.
The ceremony also saw INXS songwriters Tim, Andrew and John Farriss inducted into the WAMi Hall Of Fame.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Bob-Evans.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Snowman.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Eskimo-Joe.aspx


Spandau Ballet: no reformation
Eighties English chart-toppers Spandau Ballet have quelled rumours they're looking to reunite for a special tour.
Former singer Tony Hadley was especially adamant it wouldn't happen.
"I'm doing great without the band," he revealed.
"I know you should never say 'never', and bands in the past have said hell would freeze over before they got back together, but in our case I think hell is frozen and we still wouldn't do it."
Spandau Ballet, responsible for hits like "Gold" and "Communication", split acrimoniously in 1989, with three members of the band (including Hadley) attempting to sue guitarist and main songwriter Gary Kemp for royalties.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Spandau-Ballet.aspx


Joss Stone heads to Australia
Soulful British songstress Joss Stone will play a special one-off gig in Sydney this April.
Described by Interview magazine as possessing a voice that "can sting like aged bourbon, or melt like strap molasses", the 19-year-old will make her first trip Down Under to support her third album, Introducing Joss Stone. It's due for release on Friday March 19 via Virgin/EMI Music.
Stone's previous LP, Mind, Body & Soul, earned her multiple Grammy nominations and sold more than 7.5 million copies.
Stone will play at Sydney's Enmore Theatre on Tuesday April 3. Tickets are on sale Monday March 5.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Joss-Stone.aspx


Posh Spice wants a piece of Madonna?
With husband David about to move to Los Angeles to further his football career, Victoria Beckham has reportedly approached Madonna about buying her Beverly Hills compound.
The former Spice Girl has apparently viewed more than 20 houses in the AU$22million to $38million price range. The Beckhams' agent, Barry Peele of Sotheby's International Realty, is refusing to comment on the couple's real estate search.
However, Kurt Rappaport of local real estate firm Westside Estate Agency, told the Los Angeles Times the Beckhams will "be away for three weeks" before returning to continue the search for the perfect pad.
"There will be more homes for them to see when they get back," Rappaport said.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Spice-Girls.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Madonna.aspx

Feb 20

Aerosmith announce European tour
[source: NME.com] Aerosmith will return to Europe for the first time in eight years this June.
Fresh from a US tour supported by Mötley Crüe, and on the back of last year's best-of collection, the band will warm up for their European dates with shows in Dubai and India.
"I always look forward to touring across the pond," singer Steven Tyler joked, "because life's a pisser when you're European".
The band will appear in Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Italy, France, Belgium, England, Ireland, Holland, Latvia, Estonia, Finland and Russia.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Aerosmith.aspx


Foxy Brown arrested again
[source: NME.com] Foxy Brown has been arrested in Florida following a disturbance at a beauty supplies shop in Pembroke Pines.
Brown, whose real name is Inga Marchand, was applying hair products in the store's bathroom last Thursday (February 15) when a shop assistant told her they were closing and asked the rapper to leave. Brown allegedly threw hair glue at the employee, spat on him and subsequently resisted arrest.
Reports suggest the arresting officer had to use a "take down manoeuvre" to gain control of the rapper.
The star was detained overnight for battery and obstruction of justice, and was released on Friday on AU$1,270 bail.
This is the second time Brown has turned violent at a beauty shop. She was arrested last October for assaulting two employees at a Bloomies nail salon in Chelsea, New York, following a dispute over payment for a manicure.
She was instructed to attend anger management classes and sentenced to three years' probation. She appeared in court last month and received an "excellent" probation report.
Brown is next due to appear in court in relation to the Bloomies incident on Thursday March 15.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Foxy-Brown.aspx


Radio 4 to pen songs for Joe Strummer movie
[source: NME.com] Radio 4 have revealed they have been approached to write songs for a movie about the life of The Clash's Joe Strummer. It's understood the film will be produced by Oscar-winning actor Tim Robbins.
"We're writing and writing," Radio 4 guitarist Dave Milone told NME.COM. "Not just for the movie; we're hoping the material will be our next record too."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Radio-4.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Joe-Strummer.aspx


Kaiser Chiefs and Razorlight back nuclear disarmament campaign
[source: NME.com] Kaiser Chiefs and Razorlight are among a host of artists supporting the Campaign For Nuclear Disarmament.
Thom Yorke, Damon Albarn, Franz Ferdinand and Bloc Party are also calling on the public to oppose nuclear weapons and war.
Parliament is expected to vote on the government's proposal to replace Trident, Britain's nuclear weapons system.
Stone Roses singer Ian Brown said: "Why do we need these weapons? Is someone going to attack us? It is a lie to say these nuclear weapons are necessary for the UK but older civilisations are not allowed them. Say no to Trident."
Meanwhile, Bloc Party's Kele Okereke suggested climate change was a much bigger security threat.
"A £76 billion [AU$188 billion] investment in tackling climate change would seriously change the world for the better," he said.
CND has organised a national No Trident demonstration on Saturday February 24 in London. For more details, visit www.cnduk.org.

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Paul Weller missing as The Jam reform
[source: NME.com] The Jam will tour the UK in May for the first time in 25 years… without leader and singer Paul Weller.
Bassist Bruce Foxton and drummer Rick Buckler will be joined by guest vocalist Russell Hastings and guitarist/keyboardist David Moore, and plan to follow the tour with the release of new material.
"Paul Weller has a fantastic solo career and is one of the UK's most talented songwriters," Rick Buckler said. "He is always welcome to join us for the reunions, but until then we've got a new tour and a new album to do."
The tour, which begins on Wednesday May 2, will mark the 30th anniversary of the band's seminal album, In The City, which was released on April 29, 1977.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jam-The.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Paul-Weller.aspx


Kerry Katona's wedding bust-up
Former Atomic Kitten singer Kerry Katona – the ex-wife of Irish crooner Brian McFadden – has married her new boyfriend, Mark Croft, in a ceremony in Scotland's romantic Gretna Green region.
The Valentine's Day ceremony started nicely enough, but the nuptials turned violent when an allegedly drunken bride threw a punch at her new hubby.
Katona, who's seven months pregnant, reportedly socked Croft after he asked her to stop drinking.
"She blew her top and went for him and tried to throw a proper punch," a guest told UK tabloid News Of The World.
"He went mad and refused to spend the night with her. Mark was totally disgusted that she drank so much when she's due to give birth to their child in April."
The couple reportedly spent the night in separate rooms but are, according to Katona's publicist, "still very much in love".

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Atomic-Kitten.aspx


J.Lo dives into scientology
Her father has a 20-year history with the religion and now singer/actress Jennifer Lopez is busy exploring scientology.
Together with husband Mark Anthony, Lopez has been spending time at the organisation's Celebrity Center in Hollywood, reportedly taking professional business meetings.
The couple were introduced to the LA headquarters by friend Angelo Pagan, who's married to TV's King Of Queens actress Leah Remin. J.Lo and Anthony have also been seen hanging out with scientology devotee Tom Cruise and wife Katie Holmes.
According to a source at the Celebrity Center, Anthony has taken a "purification" course, where members sit in a sauna for hours in order to clean out toxins.
"They're in. There's no doubt about it," the source revealed to Fox News.
Meanwhile, Lopez's new LP, Como Ama Una Mujer, is out next month.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jennifer-Lopez.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Marc-Anthony.aspx


Ash unveil new LP
Irish rockers Ash have revealed details of their upcoming album, the follow-up to 2004's Meltdown.
With 14 tracks ready to be recorded, the band have posted details about the LP on their website, telling fans to expect a winter release and a more "retro" feel.
So far, the group have 14 new songs, which they say may be featured on the as-yet-untitled LP or used as upcoming B-sides.

The songs:

"I Started A Fire"
"You Cant Have It All Polaris"
"Suicide Girls/Subterraneans" (TBC)
"End Of The World"
"Blacklisted"
"Shadows"
"Shattered Glass"
"Roulette" (TBC)
"Princess Six"
"Dark And Stormy"
"What Is The Meaning?"
"Saskia"
"In Hell/The Boy Who Lived In Hell" (TBC)

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Ash.aspx


Michael Jackson rejects American Idol
Pop superstar Michael Jackson has denied reports suggesting he will feature on American Idol.
Last week, media outlets across the USA claimed Jacko would host a special episode of the show, which would see current contestants perform a selection of his hits and the singer offer advice.
But it's not to be, according to spokesman Raymone Bain.
"There is absolutely no truth to the rumour that Michael Jackson is going to appear on American Idol," Bain revealed yesterday. "He has signed no agreements with anyone."
The show's executive producer, Nigel Lythgoe, confirmed the news, but said a "huge" guest star is scheduled to appear.
"Look toward a major news announcement in the next couple of weeks," he said. "It's the biggest thing to happen to Idol in five years."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Michael-Jackson.aspx


Beyoncé goes up in smoke
Despite her Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide concerts selling out in advance, Beyoncé Knowles has come under fire from anti-smoking groups in Australia for her tour's marketing campaign, which features the star using an old-fashioned cigarette holder.
The executive director of anti-smoking group Quit, Todd Harper, wrote to the Federal Department Of Health and argued the advertisements could be in conflict with Australia's Tobacco Advertising Prohibition Act.
"She is so talented and she doesn't really need to do this," Harper said. "I'm disappointed Beyoncé has used smoking in this way. She's clearly a role model for young people and the fact she can sell out shows means she doesn't need this ad to portray sophistication. She doesn't need this to enhance her message."
The office of tour promoter Michael Coppel said the image was taken from the back of Beyoncé's LP cover and was approved by her management and record label.
Beyoncé's tour begins at Sydney's Acer Arena on Saturday April 21.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Beyonce.aspx


Crosby, Stills & Nash postpone tour
Songwriting legends Crosby, Stills & Nash have been forced to postpone their upcoming tour of Australia after David Crosby fell ill.
"We deeply regret that the band will not be able to embark on this tour as scheduled," band manager Donald Miller said.
"David, Stephen and Graham send their best wishes to all their loyal fans in Australia and New Zealand. At this time, we thank you for your understanding and the band look forward to seeing you later this year."
Shows have been rescheduled and tickets remain valid for the new dates.

Rescheduled tour dates:

Saturday December 1 – A Day On The Green, King's Park, Perth
Saturday December 8 – A Day On The Green, Roachford Wines, Coldstream
Friday December 14 – Sydney Entertainment Centre
Saturday December 15 – Riverstage, Brisbane

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Crosby-Stills-Nash.aspx

Feb 19

Nine Inch Nails post new tracks online
[source: NME.com] Nine Inch Nails are currently previewing two tracks from forthcoming album Year Zero.
The band's new single, "Survivalism", is streaming from their website, as well as a second track entitled "My Violin Heart". A CD single of "Survivalism" will be released in Europe on Monday March 5.
Year Zero – the follow-up to 2005's With Teeth – will be released on Friday April 6 in the UK and on Tuesday April 17 in the US.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Nine-Inch-Nails.aspx


Metal frontman to star in reality TV show
[source: NME.com] Poison frontman Bret Michaels will star in his own reality television show.
Rock Of Love With Bret Michaels will see the singer, whose band scored hits in the 80s with "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" and "Unskinny Bop", looking for love.
"The hard-rocking Poison frontman is looking for a woman who can truly keep up with his rock and roll lifestyle and not become jealous of his one true passion – performing, which has been the reason for and destruction of most of his relationships," a statement read.
The programme will be similar to the hugely successful Flavor Of Love, in which Public Enemy rapper Flavor Flav starred.
Michaels will live with "a bevy of beauties" in his Los Angeles mansion, who will perform various tasks and challenges in an effort to see who will best fit in with his lifestyle.
Rock Of Love With Bret Michaels airs in July on VH1.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Poison.aspx


Bono snubbed by North Dakota
[source: NME.com] Lawmakers in North Dakota rejected a resolution to honour U2 frontman Bono on Thursday February 15.
The measure, sponsored by state representative Scot Kelsh, sought to honour the world-renowned humanitarian for his advocacy of debt relief for impoverished nations.
"This is something that does matter to us as citizens of North Dakota, the United States and the world at large," Kelsh told Associated Press.
Nevertheless, the resolution was defeated 58-35 in the northern state.
A Republican lawmaker apparently thought the measure sought to honour Sonny Bono, Cher's former singing partner and one-time Californian lawmaker in his own right.
"When I saw the resolution, I was looking for Cher's name in there," Gil Herbel admitted.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/U2.aspx


Coldplay in ticket price controversy
[source: NME.com] Coldplay have angered fans in Chile by charging high prices for tickets.
Tickets were priced between AU$100 and AU$203 for the gigs, which took place last week. The average monthly salary in the country is AU$635.
"We just found out how expensive they are and would like to say we are sorry," singer Chris Martin said. "We didn't know beforehand.
"The tickets could not have been extremely cheap because we are playing smaller venues here, but the price is a little embarrassing. When you are a famous band, a lot of things happen that you don't know about."
The band also confirmed reports about their new album.
"We are going to work with Brian Eno, but we'll talk about that very soon," Martin told the Santiago Times.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Coldplay.aspx


Carlos Santana to launch restaurant chain
[source: NME.com] Carlos Santana and wife Deborah have announced plans to launch a chain of upscale Mexican restaurants in the US.
The Maria Maria chain will open its first three restaurants in northern California, where the couple live. The restaurants will launch in Walnut Creek, Mill Valley and Santa Rosa by June, with plans to expand the chain nationwide.
The chain is named after Santana's 2000 hit and will emphasise regional Mexican specialties. There are also plans to open a "spectacular flagship location" under the banner Santanas.
Santana's other business ventures include a foray into fashion, with a successful line of shoes named Carlos By Carlos Santana.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Santana.aspx


Britney shaves head and gets inked
Embattled US pop singer Britney Spears underwent a drastic makeover on the weekend, shaving her head and landing two new tattoos in less than 24 hours.
Late Friday afternoon, Spears headed to Los Angeles salon Esther's Haircutting Studio and requested hairdresser Esther Tognozzi shave off her locks. Protesting out of fear she'd later be sued for ruining Spears' image, Tognozzi declined and suggested the 25-year-old might be feeling a tad "hormonal".
Spears quickly "grabbed the buzzer," Tognozzi said, "and started buzzing her own hair off… I just cleaned it up when she was done with it."
Spears then headed to Body And Soul tattoo parlour and requested a black, white and pink cross on her lower hip and a pair of red and pink lips on her wrist.
Britney's radical makeover came the same day People magazine reported the singer had entered rehab on the Caribbean island of Antigua, only to check out a day later.
Her representatives have refused to comment.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Britney-Spears.aspx


Counting Crows singer launches label
Counting Crows singer Adam Duritz has launched his own record label after discovering two news acts on MySpace.
Blacktop Mourning, a punk-pop outfit from Chicago, and New York rapper/trumpeter Notar inspired Duritz to do more than just offer support.
"The talent of Notar and Blacktop Mourning just blew me away and I wanted to be a part of their evolution," Duritz said.
His "intimate boutique label" is named Tyrannosaurus Records.
Currently at work on a new Counting Crows LP, Duritz will appear on four tracks on Blacktop Mourning's debut, No Regrets, due out in May.
Notar's album is scheduled for a spring release.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Counting-Crows.aspx


Chris Cornell leaves Audioslave
Chris Cornell, the 42-year-old former Soundgarden singer, has quit Audioslave, the collaboration with ex-members of Rage Against The Machine.
He blamed "irresolvable personality conflicts, as well as musical differences" and said he wanted to concentrate on his solo LP, Carry On, which is due for release in May.
"I wish the other three members nothing but the best in all of their future endeavours," Cornell offered in a statement.
Audioslave formed in 2001 and have released three LPs. A re-united RATM, meanwhile, is set to perform for one gig only at this year's Coachella Valley Arts & Music Festival in California, which runs from April 27 to 29.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Audioslave.aspx


Ricky Martin gives Bush the finger
Puerto Rican heartthrob Ricky Martin stuck his middle finger up when he sang the US president's name in "Asignatura Pendiente" during an American concert earlier this month.
Martin had been a headliner at Bush's 2001 inauguration ball but has since become highly critical of the leader's actions in Iraq.
"My convictions of peace and life go beyond any government and political agenda," Martin told reporters.
"As long as I have a voice onstage and offstage, I will always condemn war and those who promulgate it."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Ricky-Martin.aspx


Badly Drawn Boy sticks up for Robbie Williams
Currently in rehab for prescription drug abuse, former Take That singer Robbie Williams has found an ally in fellow Brit Badly Drawn Boy.
The beanie-clad Mancunian singer – real name: Damon Gough – said other stars should support Robbie's attempts at getting well and not criticise him.
"I empathise with what Robbie is going through," Gough said. "I've met him a few times and he seemed to be dealing with his level of fame. Everyone looks at someone like him and says, 'He's just a show-off and loves attention'.
"[But] talking about yourself incessantly in interviews, being onstage where you are the centre of attention, writing songs that are going to be scrutinised, being famous and being spotted in the street all makes you feel really strange. Fame is a weird thing and it does psychologically affect you."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Badly-Drawn-Boy.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Robbie-Williams.aspx


Lily Allen blasts the Brits
Having failed to take home any of the four gongs she was nominated for at last week's Brit Awards, UK pop starlet Lily Allen has reportedly lashed out at organisers.
Allen was nominated for Best British Female Artist, British Breakthrough Act, British Album and British Single, but left empty-handed.
Speaking to MTV beforehand, Allen had already predicted the outcome,
"I already know I won't win any awards. I bet you £100 I'll get nothing," she said.
"The judging committee are all industry insiders and they're predominantly from Universal [Records], and I'm on EMI. I think you'll find that 70 per cent of the artists here tonight are on Universal. I'll leave you with that."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Lily-Allen.aspx

Feb 16

Coachella Festival sells out
[source: NME.com] Tickets to the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival have sold out in record time, more than two months in advance.
The event, which takes place between April 27 and 29 at the Empire Polo Field in Indio, California, features headliners Bjork, Red Hot Chili Peppers and the newly reunited Rage Against The Machine. Arcade Fire, Jesus & Mary Chain, Arctic Monkeys and Interpol are also on the bill.
Meanwhile, festival booker Paul Tollett cleared up rumours the event would be changing its desert location due to real estate development on its current site.
"There are rumours about that whole area being developed for houses and golf courses," he told Billboard. "We said we'd make this commitment to them, but please don't make houses here, and it worked."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Interpol.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Bjork.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jesus-And-Mary-Chain.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Rage-Against-The-Machine.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Red-Hot-Chili-Peppers.aspx


Kanye West's mother pens book
[source: NME.com] Kanye West's mother and manager, Dr Donda West, is set to release a book about life with her son.
Raising Kanye will hit stores in the US on Tuesday May 15 and will detail Dr West's struggle to bring up her son as a single mother. It will also include never-before-seen photos of the family.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kanye-West.aspx


TV On The Radio in racism row with Village Voice
[source: NME.com] The Village Voice has published an angry letter from TV On The Radio saxophonist/flutist Martín Perna condemning the paper's cover last week.
The famous New York publication ran a cover last week depicting caricatures of TV On The Radio's Kyp Malone being run over by Bob Dylan on a scooter, in reference to Dylan beating TVOTR in the 34th Annual Pazz & Jop critics poll, prompting Perna to call the image "racist, unfunny, mean-spirited and inaccurate".
"Even in the post-Chappelle era when it's hip and edgy to discuss and portray ideas about race, there are still wrong, tasteless ways and this was one of them," Perna wrote.
"Nowhere in the consciousness of Voice editors or illustrator David O'Keefe can we find memories of James Byrd, a black man who was dragged behind a truck to his death by white racists in Jasper, Texas, in 1998, or Arthur "J.R." Warren, who was run over four times and killed for being black and gay in West Virginia in 2000…
"These events are still fresh in the minds of black people, as well as in the hearts and minds of the rest of us who may not be directly victimised by these particular lynchings but who are nonetheless endangered by racism and committed to social justice and healing America of its sick racist condition."
He also directly accused staff at the paper of being racist.
"That this picture could be drawn and not questioned or vetoed by any of the people who saw it prior to publication shows the level of ignorance and racism that persists in leftist institutions like the Voice, who continue to posture as hip and progressive.
"Intentionally or not, this cover sends the all-too-familiar message to people of colour: make something too unique, make something outside of your assigned place-role, and get run over by a white man."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Tv-On-The-Radio.aspx


Fountains Of Wayne provide material for rom-com
[source: NME.com] Fountains Of Wayne's Adam Schlesinger has contributed three original songs to Music And Lyrics, the new movie starring Drew Barrymore and Hugh Grant.
Schlesinger wrote "Way Back Into Love", the song Grant and Barrymore's characters struggle to "write" throughout the film.
The star also composed two songs performed solo by Grant: "Don't Write Me Off" and "Meaningless Kiss", featuring backing vocals from ABC frontman Martin Fry.
In I996, Schlesinger was nominated for an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for Best Original Song for the title track to the Tom Hanks-directed That Thing You Do.
Meanwhile, new Fountains Of Wayne album Traffic And Weather will be released on Tuesday April 3.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Fountains-Of-Wayne.aspx


Elvis Presley statue erected in Hawaii
[source: NME.com] A life-size bronze statue of Elvis Presley will be erected in Hawaii to mark the star's landmark 1973 concert in Honolulu, Aloha.
The show was one of the first concerts to be broadcast globally via satellite.
Speaking about the statue, Mayor Mufi Hannemann said Elvis remained an idol and a hero to many people.
"Hawaii considers him an adopted son," he claimed.
The statue will be unveiled in July at the site of the Honolulu concert.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Elvis-Presley.aspx


Queens Of The Stone Age unveil new LP
Californian desert rockers Queens Of The Stone Age have revealed details of the follow-up to 2005's Lullabies To Paralyse.
The band made an announcement via their MySpace page on Wednesday February 14, revealing that the LP – due out in June – is titled Era Vulgaris and will feature tracks "Misfit Love", "Sick, Sick, Sick", "Battery Acid" and "Into The Hollow"… maybe.
"Could be song titles. Or could not," the post teased. "Go sign up on the mailing list for future insider info then get off the internet and go get laid."
QOTSA frontman Josh Homme is touring Australia next month with side-project Eagles Of Death Metal.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Queens-Of-The-Stone-Age.aspx


New Slim Dusty songs uncovered
The National Archives in Canberra claim they've discovered three "lost" Slim Dusty songs.
Back in 1943, a 15-year-old Slim – real name: David Gordon Kirkpatrick – sent the songs to the Copyright Office, complete with handwritten music and lyrics.
"They're very gentle ballads, very easy to read as a poem as well as sing, but they're just so Australian," National Archives Curator Johanna Parker said.
"They're so full of pride in his country and how much he loves Australia, so when you read it you really get a sense of this as the emergence of his style."
While none of the songs were eventually recorded, the manuscripts will go on display at the Archives later this month.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Slim-Dusty.aspx


Kaiser Chiefs head to Oz
Their last trip Down Under saw them support Foo Fighters at the Opera House. Now UK rockers Kaiser Chiefs are heading back to Australia for a flying visit.
With "Ruby" currently riding the airwaves, the band will play just two shows in March to support their brand new LP, Yours Truly, Angry Mob, which is released next Friday.
The follow-up to 2005's Employment, the new LP has been described by UK music bible Q Magazine as "an album that stretches their creativity while retaining their vim and joie de vivre".
Tickets go on sale Monday February 26.

Tour dates:

Wednesday March 21 – The Forum, Sydney
Friday March 23 – Prince Of Wales, Melbourne

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kaiser-Chiefs.aspx


Al Gore announces climate change concerts
Former US presidential candidate and filmmaker Al Gore has announced a series of worldwide concerts to focus on the effects of climate change.
The event will be part of Save Our Selves – The Campaign For A Climate In Crisis.
Already signed on to play at various shows across six continents are more than 100 performers, including Melissa Etheridge, Foo Fighters, Lenny Kravitz, Sheryl Crow, John Mayer, Duran Duran, Korn, Pharrell, Black Eyed Peas, Akon, Enrique Iglesias, Faith Hill and Tim McGraw.
The gigs will take place on Saturday July 7 in Shanghai, China; Johannesburg, South Africa; London, England; and cities to be announced in Japan, Brazil and the United States.
There's also a plan for a Sydney gig, although no further details have been revealed.
"In order to solve the climate crisis, we have to reach billions of people," Gore said in a statement. "The climate crisis will only be stopped by an unprecedented and sustained global movement."
Proceeds from the concerts will go to creating a foundation to combat climate change led by The Alliance For Climate Protection.

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http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Sheryl-Crow.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Akon.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Pharrell.aspx


Kenny Chesney: "I'm not gay"
US country star Kenny Chesney has spoken out about his short-lived marriage to Hollywood actress Renee Zellweger and denied he's gay.
The couple were married in May 2005 after a whirlwind romance on the Caribbean island of St. John. Zellweger, however, filed for an annulment just four months later, citing "fraud".
"Maybe I should have come out and said, 'No, I'm not [gay]," Chesney told US TV show 60 Minutes.
"I didn't want to draw any more attention to it; I didn't have to prove to anybody that I wasn't [gay]. I didn't feel like I really did. We thought the least harmful [reason] was fraud because it's kind of broad," Chesney explained.
"And boy, we were wrong. The only fraud that was committed was me thinking that I knew what it was like… that I really understood what it was like to be married, and I really didn't."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kenny-Chesney.aspx

Feb 15

Factory boss fights cancer
[source: NME.com] Factory Records boss Tony Wilson will begin chemotherapy at Manchester's Christie Hospital after he was diagnosed with cancer.
Wilson managed Joy Division, New Order and Happy Mondays, who all resided on his label, Factory Records. He was also behind the legendary Hacienda nightclub in Manchester.
"I wasn't too upset when I was told the news," Wilson said. "I just think you have to go with it and I see it as another step in life's adventure."
The disease was discovered during a routine visit to the doctor. Minutes into his check-up, the doctor identified something was seriously wrong with his right lung.
After having the lung drained, a scan revealed his right kidney was "completely consumed" by cancer. It was removed and he is now set for two five-day treatments at the hospital.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Joy-Division.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/New-Order.aspx


Funeral For A Friend preview new song
[source: NME.com] Funeral For A Friend have premiered new song "Out Of Reach" online.
The track is taken from forthcoming album Tales Don't Tell Themselves, which is due out in May, and can be heard on the band's MySpace page.
Funeral For A Friend are asking fans to direct videos for the song, which will be shown on the group's own YouTube channel. The eventual winner will get a chance to meet the band and the video will be included on a forthcoming release.
Fans can send footage to ffaf@atlanticrecords.co.uk with the subject heading: "Out Of Reach video comp".


Snow Patrol singer goes solo
[source: NME.com] Snow Patrol's Gary Lightbody is working on a solo movie soundtrack project.
Lightbody has teamed with producer Jacknife Lee (who worked on Snow Patrol's 2006 album, Eyes Open) at the Grouse Lodge studios in Ireland.
"It is something we're very excited to be asked to be involved in as we've been fans since childhood," Lightbody said.
He refused, however, to confirm which film he was working on.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Snow-Patrol.aspx


Beyoncé graces Sports Illustrated
Long considered one of the most coveted jobs in the modelling world, US singer/actress Beyoncé Knowles will appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated's annual swimsuit issue.
The 25-year-old singer, who recently announced a solo tour of Australia, will wear a yellow and pink bikini from her House Of Dereon label.
The issue has a music theme and features artists such as Kanye West, Aerosmith, Kenny Chesney, Gnarls Barkley and Panic! At The Disco. They'll all pose with models in swimwear and items from the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.
"Once the decision was made to have a music hook, one of the first settings to come up was the Rock Hall because it's such an iconic place," Sports Illustrated's Rick McCabe said. "It was a natural fit."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Beyonce.aspx


Brandy's legal battles continue
Having already been hit with a AU$64million lawsuit, R&B singer Brandy is facing further legal troubles after causing a fatal car accident in December 2006.
The 28-year-old actress/singer accidentally rear-ended a car while driving her Land Rover SUV on a Los Angeles freeway, causing another car to fatally crash into waitress Awatef Aboudihaj.
Now a second lawsuit from Aboudihaj's children has been filed, citing wrongful death.
"Our clients are obviously devastated by this tragedy," lawyer Paul Philips said. "Their lives are upside down, and as children they're really finding themselves having to deal with a loss they don't even fully comprehend yet."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Brandy.aspx


New Elliott Smith LP revealed
US indie label Kill Rock Stars have revealed the tracklisting for a new compilation by late singer-songwriter Elliott Smith.
Due for release on Tuesday May 8, the two-disc New Moon will feature songs recorded by Smith in the period between 1994 and 1997, a time that also yielded the Elliott Smith and Either/Or albums.
Smith's long-time friend and estate archivist Larry Crane is overseeing the project and a percentage of the proceeds will go to Portland homeless youth charity Outside In.
Smith died on October 21, 2003, after an apparent suicide.

New Moon tracklisting:

Disc One:
"Angel In The Snow"
"Talking To Mary"
"High Times"
"New Monkey"
"Looking Over My Shoulder"
"Going Nowhere"
"Riot Coming"
"All Cleaned Out"
"First Timer"
"Go By"
"Miss Misery (Early Version)"
"Thirteen"

Disc Two:
"Georgia Georgia"
"Whatever (Folk Song in C)"
"Big Decision"
"Placeholder"
"New Disaster"
"Seen How Things Are Hard"
"Fear City"
"Either/Or"
"Pretty Mary K (Other Version)"
"Almost Over"
"See You Later"
"Half Right"

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Elliott-Smith.aspx


Brit Award winners
Muse singer Matt Bellamy thanked his girlfriend and wished everyone a happy Valentine's Day as he collected the award for Best Live Act at the 2007 Brit Awards.
Held early this morning (Australia time) at Earls Court in London, the awards recognised the cream of the British recording industry.
Aussie trio Wolfmother, however, were up for the publicly voted International Breakthrough Act, but missed out to Hollywood rockers Orson.
There were performances from the likes of Scissor Sisters, Corrine Bailey Rae, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Oasis, but the big winners were the Arctic Monkeys, who, dressed as characters from The Wizard Of Oz, accepted their two Brits via a video cross.

Brit winners:

British Male Solo Artist – James Morrison
British Female Solo Artist – Amy Winehouse
British Group – Arctic Monkeys
MasterCard British Album – Arctic Monkeys (Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not)
British Single – Take That ("Patience")
British Breakthrough Act – The Fratellis
British Live Act – Muse
International Male Solo Artist – Justin Timberlake
International Female Solo Artist – Nelly Furtado
International Group – The Killers
International Album – The Killers (Sam's Town)
International Breakthrough Act – Orson
Outstanding Contribution To Music – Oasis

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Arctic-Monkeys.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Amy-Winehouse.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/James-Morrison.aspx
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http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Take-That.aspx
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http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Muse.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Oasis.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Orson.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Nelly-Furtado.aspx


Lou Rhodes heads Down Under
Lamb frontwoman Lou Rhodes is brining her acclaimed solo work to Australian shores for the first time.
The English band's principal songwriter owns one of the most unmistakable voices in pop and will perform songs from her critically acclaimed debut, Beloved One.
As one half of influential Manchester drum'n'bass duo Lamb, Rhodes' striking vocals made tracks like "Gabriel" and "Gorecki" modern classics. But she and Andy Barlow split in 2004 after two successful visits to Australia.
Tickets for Lou Rhodes' first solo tour are on sale now.

Tour dates:

Thursday April 5 – The Zoo, Brisbane
Sunday April 8 – The Great Escape, Sydney
Tuesday April 10 – The Gaelic Club, Sydney
Wednesday April 11 – The Factory, Sydney
Thursday April 12 – The Corner Hotel, Melbourne
Friday April 13 – Northcote Social Club, Melbourne
Sunday April 15 – Fly By Night, Perth

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Lamb.aspx

Feb 14

Timbaland spins forthcoming album in LA
[source: NME.com] Timbaland previewed several tracks from his forthcoming album for a handful of people in Los Angeles on Monday.
The super-producer, who masterminded recent hits for Justin Timberlake and Nelly Furtado, manned the console at the posh Thom Thom Club in Santa Monica.
He spun several songs from forthcoming album Shock Value, which features notable collaborators like Timberlake, Furtado, Jay-Z and MIA, as well as unexpected guests such as Fall Out Boy, The Hives, She Wants Revenge and Elton John.
"It's some different type of s##t," Timbaland told the invitation-only crowd. "It ain't just rap; it's some of everything."
Timbaland danced and rapped along with his songs, many of which have the catchy pop sensibility and rap call-and-response that have become trademarks of his style.
Encouraging the crowd to make some noise, he said, "You brought me out of the studio to do this, so I need to know you're all with me!".
The album's lead single, "Give It To Me", features vocals from Furtado and Timberlake alongside rapping from Timbaland.
Shock Value is due out on Tuesday March 27.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Timbaland.aspx


Iron Maiden to play India for first time
[source: NME.com] Iron Maiden will play in India for the first time on Saturday March 17 at Bangalore's Palace.
Last year's A Matter Of Life And Death rose to number two in the Indian charts, which is the highest ever position in India for any rock act.
Singer Bruce Dickinson said the band were all looking forward to visiting Bangalore.
"It's very special to us to be able to play to new fans in countries we've never been to before. We are crafting a special set to include songs from A Matter Of Life And Death and a load of other favourites."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Iron-Maiden.aspx


Giant Drag pay tribute to Madonna
[source: NME.com] Giant Drag and Devendra Banhart both feature on a forthcoming Madonna tribute album.
All proceeds from Through The Wilderness: A Tribute To Madonna will help fight AIDS in Africa.
A release date for the album has not been announced, although it is expected in spring.
The album also features Bat For Lashes and The Tyde.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Giant-Drag.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Madonna.aspx


Nine Inch Nails announce new album tracklisting
[source: NME.com] Nine Inch Nails have revealed the tracklisting for new album Year Zero.
Trent Reznor's band release the follow-up to 2005's With Teeth on Friday April 6.

Tracklisting:

"Hyperpower"
"The Beginning Of The End"
"Survivalism"
"The Good Soldier"
"Vessel"
"Me, I'm Not"
"Capital G"
"My Violent Heart"
"The Warning"
"God Given"
"Meet You Master"
"The Greater Good"
"The Great Destroyer"
"Another Version Of The Truth"
"In This Twilight"
"Zero-Sum"

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Nine-Inch-Nails.aspx


Jarvis Cocker to star in bird documentary
[source: NME.com] Jarvis Cocker will feature in BBC documentary Why Birds Sing.
The work is based on the book of the same name by musician and philosopher David Rothenberg, who argues birds sing for the sheer joy of it.
As well as Cocker, the film will feature Peter Gabriel, Beth Orton and Laurie Anderson.
The show will culminate in a "unique musical composition combining human music with birdsong". This will feature Gabriel, Guillemots and founder of the Afro-Celt Sound System, Simon Emmerson.
The 80-minute show will premiere on BBC4, though a transmission date has yet to be announced.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Pulp.aspx


Faith Hill burgled
US country music stars Faith Hill and husband Tim McGraw have lost valuable possessions after their Hollywood Hills mansion was burgled on the weekend.
The couple weren't present at the time of the intrusion, however police confirmed an unspecified amount of cash was stolen, along with goods belonging to the couple.
The married stars are currently planning their second major tour together: Soul2Soul 2007, which will head across the USA from early June until August.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Faith-Hill.aspx


Robbie Williams checks into rehab
British pop star Robbie Williams entered an un-named rehab facility in the US yesterday for a pills addiction.
Williams, 33, has openly discussed his fondness for dugs and alcohol in the past.
"Robbie Williams has been admitted into a treatment centre in America for his dependency on prescription drugs," the singer's spokeswoman, Bryony Watts, revealed. "There will be no further comment on this matter."
The former Take That singer had recently been the subject of tabloid fodder in the UK after American model Lisa d'Amato revealed details of their affair.
"It was clear he was struggling with his mind," she told British newspaper News Of The World.
"He doesn't drink, but he needs antidepressants to get him through the day. A lot of the time he seemed on edge."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Robbie-Williams.aspx


The B-52s: back in the studio
The B-52s introduced the world to hits such as "Rock Lobster" and "Love Shack" and now the Athens, Georgia outfit are back in the studio.
Singer Fred Schneider told local newspaper The Atlanta Journal the band were halfway into their seventh LP.
"The [Nickel And Dime studios] is where we started, so it just feels right to be making this record here," Schneider revealed.
In a post on the band's website, Kate Pierson discussed the songwriting process.
"The recording process is different these days with digital technology. But Keith wrote the music and then Cindy, Fred and I 'jammed' in our usual process of trying to make things flow. Then we listen and try to make sense of it all.
"We may pick out a chorus, then go for the verses. Or we might get a beginning and go from there. But we all participate in the process. Keith wrote some killer music and massive grooves, making it fun to jam and come up with crazy ideas."
The new LP is due to be released in winter.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/B-52s-The.aspx


Queen Latifah considers motherhood
Rapper, talk-show host and Hollywood actress Queen Latifah is applying to become a foster parent and insists she's more than ready to help disadvantaged children.
"I'm filling out the paperwork to be a foster parent, so maybe sometimes I can kinda just help out in that way – just when they need, like, an emergency placement and I happen to be home," she said.
Unlike other Hollywood mothers, she won't be looking to adopt a newborn from abroad.
"I wanna adopt an American baby… just because there are so many kids here that need our help," Latifah said.
"My sister's a social worker in Newark, New Jersey, and there are so many kids that could use a good home."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Queen-Latifah.aspx


Rabbi blasts Britney as a bad mother
Celebrity rabbi and New York spiritual leader Shmuley Boteach has condemned Britney Spears in an open letter to the star.
Worried that Britney's constant partying is damaging her two young children (Sean Preston and Jayden James), Boteach has urged the pop princess to spend more time at home… and wear underwear.
"Once you become a parent, Britney, life gets really serious," the rabbi wrote. "We can all pretend life is one big party devoid of responsibility. And rarely being home, or coming home drunk, or letting your kids see you in a degraded state, will permanently scar your kids. Soon your boys will be surfing the internet. They'll see a lot of photos of you in poses that no son should ever see their own mother…
"Try and be home with your kids, cover up, limit the visits to the nightclubs. I know you can get your life together, Britney. God bless you."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Britney-Spears.aspx

Feb 13

The Police reveal reunion tour details
[source: NME.com] The Police will kick off their first tour in 23 years in Vancouver on Monday May 28.
The three-piece revealed the plans at an LA press conference just 24 hours after performing "Roxanne" at the Grammy Awards.
The band will then head to the USA for shows throughout June and July, including a slot at the Bonnaroo Festival in Tennessee on Saturday June 16.

Tour dates:

Monday May 28 – Vancouver GM Place
Wednesday June 6 – Seattle Key Arena
Saturday June 9 – Denver Pepsi Center
Friday June 15 – Las Vegas MGM Garden Arena
Saturday June 16 – Bonnaroo Festival, Tennessee
Monday June 18 – Phoenix US Airwaves Arena
Tuesday June 26 – Dallas American Airlines Center
Saturday June 30 – New Orleans Arena
Monday July 2 – St Louis Scottrade Center
Sunday July 22 – Toronto Air Canada Center
Wednesday July 25 – Montreal Bell Centre
Saturday July 28 – Boston Fenway Park
Wednesday August 1 & Friday August 3 – New York Madison Square Garden

Additional North American concert dates will be confirmed in the next few weeks, while British and European dates are expected to be announced towards the end of the month. It's rumoured more American dates are planned in the spring, along with visits to Mexico, South America, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.
Sting, guitarist Andy Summers and drummer Stewart Copeland split in 1984, although they regrouped for a handful of concerts in 1986 before breaking up for good. They did perform in public at their 2003 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame and played an impromptu set at Sting's 1992 wedding to Trudie Styler.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Police-The.aspx


New Radiohead album release date denied
[source: NME.com] Radiohead have denied their album will be released on Monday August 6, despite an internet retailer listing that release date.
According to Amazon, the record, described as "New Album – TBC", would be released via EMI Records, but a spokesperson for Radiohead has denied this.
The band fulfilled its contract with EMI with 2003's Hail To The Thief and have not announced details of a new deal.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Radiohead.aspx


Taking The Long Way crowned Best Album at Grammys
[source: NME.com] Dixie Chicks beat out stiff competition from Gnarls Barkley, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Justin Timberlake to win Best Album at the Grammy Awards last night.
The Texas trio were successful in several major categories, which must have come as a big relief after the criticism they've endured in recent years following comments made in 2003 about US President George Bush.
"I'm not ready to make nice!" lead singer Natalie Maines exclaimed when accepting the award.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Dixie-Chicks.aspx


Lily Allen fights Jet and The Streets
[source: NME.com] Lily Allen has become embroiled in yet another spat, this time lashing out at Aussie rockers Jet and fellow Londoners The Streets.
Writing on her blog, the outspoken singer revealed how she got into drunken rows with both bands during the recent Big Day Out tour in Australia.
"I wound Chris [Cester, Jet drummer] up the wrong way and he flicked a cigarette at me. I then threw a bottle at him, which luckily missed, and all hell broke loose. I have no recollection of the whole event.
"I also had a big row with Mike Skinner from The Streets. I was so drunk I can't even remember what it was about."
According to Allen, her new friends Kasabian managed to dig her out of trouble.
"The Kasabian boys were dragging me off [Skinner], saying, 'Stop it, Lily, you're being an idiot'. They're such a good influence on me."
The singer also admitted she thinks she has no chance of winning at this year's Brit Awards, despite her four nominations.
Meanwhile, fellow nominee Corinne Bailey Rae became the latest target for Allen's spite.
"Corinne Bailey Rae? I think she's a bit boring, sorry," Allen told The Daily Mirror. "She's a lovely girl but I don't think her music stands out and I'd be a bit annoyed if she won Best Female. I'd be really happy if Amy Winehouse wins, though. She's brilliant.
"When I heard about the nominations I felt like it was a bit of a burden. I hate being in competitions because I never win. I'll go home with nothing. I just know I will."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Lily-Allen.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jet.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Corinne-Bailey-Rae.aspx


Sarah Blasko hits the road
Sydney-based singer-songwriter Sarah Blasko has won critical acclaim for second album What The Sea Wants, The Sea Will Have and now she's taking the songs out on the road.
Recently announced in the shortlist for the 2006 AMP Awards, Blasko will make a series of rare and intimate appearances across the country in April. Featuring two sets of music and an eight-piece chamber ensemble, Blasko will be joined by her regular musical collaborators, as well as some mystery guests in each city.

Tour dates:

Friday March 30 – Cremorne Theatre, QPAC, Brisbane
Saturday, March 31 – Cremorne Theatre, QPAC, Brisbane
Wednesday, April 4 – National Theatre, St Kilda
Thursday, April 5 – National Theatre, St Kilda
Thursday, April 12 – Octagon Theatre, UWA, Perth
Friday, April 13 – Octagon Theatre, UWA, Perth
Saturday April 14 – Scott Theatre, Adelaide University
Sunday April 15 – Scott Theatre, Adelaide University
Wednesday April 18 – York Theatre, Seymour Centre, Sydney
Thursday April 19 – York Theatre, Seymour Centre, Sydney

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Sarah-Blasko.aspx


Another bub for Gwen Stefani?
With her No Doubt bandmates patiently waiting in the wings, platinum-haired US pop star Gwen Stefani has revealed she'll have a second child after completing her upcoming US solo tour.
The 37-year-old singer, who's married to former Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale, is already a mum to baby son Kingston.
"It's already on the itinerary. I'm ready to go," Stefani admitted this week, although she added she was determined not to fall pregnant while touring.
"That was really crazy," Stefani recalled of her last tour, which saw Kingston in utero. "I was in rehearsals and I'm like, 'What is wrong with me? I am such a jerk right now'. Then I found out I was pregnant. I couldn't back out of the tour at that point and I was so sick… they had to keep expanding my costumes. And the smells of, like, the tour bus and air fresheners… yuck, so gross!"

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Gwen-Stefani.aspx


Jarvis Cocker joins V Fest
Former Pulp frontman Jarvis Cocker has been added to the inaugural Australian V Festival.
Since Pulp disbanded in 2002 – after such chart hits as "Common People" and "Disco 2000" – Cocker has moved into solo territory and has a new, self-titled LP due out in mid-2007.
He'll join the likes of Pixies, Pet Shop Boys, Gnarls Barclay, The Rapture, Groove Armada, Radio Soulwax, Bumblebeez, Mercy Arms, 2ManyDJs, The Temper Trap, Phoenix and The Softlightes at the festival.
V Festival hits Centennial Park in Sydney on Saturday March 31, and Avica Resort on the Gold Coast on Sunday April 1.
Meanwhile, Melbourne and Adelaide will see Mini V festivals taking place (it's basically the line-up split over two nights). Dates for Mini V are Tuesday April 3 at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne and Wednesday April 4 at Memorial Drive, Adelaide.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Pulp.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Pet-Shop-Boys.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Rapture-The.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Gnarls-Barkley.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Bumblebeez.aspx


Dave Grohl: definitely not dead
Spare a thought for Foo Fighters frontman and former Nirvana skinsman Dave Grohl, who has – for a second time – been forced to notify his wife that he's still alive.
Back in May 2006, Grohl was the subject of an internet rumour that claimed he was dead. Now he's had to update his Wikipedia entry to remove the phrase: "David Eric Grohl (January 14 1969 – February 5 2007)" from the page.
"I got a phone message from a friend saying, 'Er, I guess… Jordyn [Grohl's wife]… this is maybe… for you. I'm so sorry to hear what happened," Grohl revealed this week.
"I heard this message and went, 'What the f##k?' They were leaving a message on my cell phone, saying, 'I'm sorry Dave died'. That was weird, but I guess I've finally graduated to that status of being an internet rumour. It weirded me out a bit, but it's stupid."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Foo-Fighters.aspx


New Found Glory hit Oz
Floridian rock outfit New Found Glory are heading to Australia in support of their fifth LP, Coming Home.
Described by Kerrang! magazine as an act whose "anthems inspired Panic! At The Disco and Fall Out Boy", the new LP has garnered glowing reviews by mags such as NME and Alternative Press.
Heading to our shores this April, they'll also bring pop-rockers Paramore.
Tickets go on sale Thursday February 22.

Tour dates:

Thursday April 5 – The Tivoli, Brisbane (all-ages)
Friday April 6 – Big Top, Luna Park, Sydney (all-ages)
Saturday April 7 – Billboard The Venue, Melbourne (all-ages, afternoon show)
Sunday April 8 – The Palace, Melbourne (18+)
Tuesday April 10 – HQ, Adelaide (all-ages)
Wednesday April 11 – Metro City, Perth (all-ages, afternoon show)

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/New-Found-Glory.aspx


Sigur Rós perform for anti-logging
Icelandic atmos-outfit Sigur Rós will perform a special one-off gig in their hometown of Reykjavik to protest the construction of a new freeway.
The orchestral rockers are hoping to raise funds to help block construction of a highway in Álafoss. Instead, they'd prefer it was "diverted through a less destructive route".
"The ministry for the environment has stated an evaluation of environmental impact is not warranted, which is a decision we just don't understand and have already appealed," drummer Orri Páll Dyrason said.
"The highway would also go through a grove of trees, which was planted by the children of the founders of Álafoss wool mill built in 1896. Half these trees have already been removed. It's such a remarkable place and played a huge role in the establishment of the [nearby] town of Mosfellsbær."
The band are currently working on the follow-up to hit LP Takk.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Sigur-Ros.aspx