Aug 31

Bob Marley's family to sue Universal Music
[source: NME.com] Bob Marley's family intend to sue Universal Music Group and Verizon Wireless for unlawful use of the reggae legend's name and likeness.
According to a press release issued by Fifty Six Hope Road Music Ltd, which is owned by the Marleys, Universal Music has agreed to grant US mobile phone provider Verizon the right to use Bob Marley's name, likeness and image to promote a new set of ringtones.
"The agreement was entered into without the permission of the Marley family," the statement said.
Universal said the claims in the press release were without merit and they have not received any suit from the Marley estate.
Universal Music Group owns Island Records, the label on which Marley recorded several major hits, including "One Love" and "I Shot The Sheriff".

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Bob-Marley.aspx


The Futureheads record new album in three weeks
[source: NME.com] The Futureheads have almost completed their third album.
The band have been working on the as-yet untitled follow-up to 2006's News And Tributes in Andalusia with producer Youth.
Writing on his blog on the band's official website, guitarist Ross Millard described the process as "our best recording experience yet".
"We've been as busy as we ever have over the last six months. We started the year writing and rehearsing for the third album, and, after playing some of our best shows in Austria, Italy, Russia, Germany, and Sweden, we jetted off to Granada in Spain to make the new record. And I'm pleased to say it's pretty much finished!"
Millard revealed sessions for the LP were wrapped up in a speedy manner.
"We spent three weeks in Andalusia with Youth making the third album! It was our best recording experience yet because it was the first one that hasn't involved any kind of nervous breakdown/exhaustion/bleak Yorkshire farmhouse in the middle of winter! The energy is back and the songs are tighter, faster and, dare I say it, a bit more playful than before."
The record is expected sometime in 2008, although it's not clear which label it will be released on. The band left 679 Recordings last year.

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


Led Zeppelin star helps convict music pirate
[source: NME.com] A man who sold pirate copies of Led Zeppelin albums has been sentenced to 20 months' jail after the group's guitarist, Jimmy Page, gave evidence against him.
Robert Langley, 56, was arrested in 2005 after selling pirated Led Zeppelin material at a CD fair in Glasgow.
During the case, Page was called to give evidence against him, causing Langley to change his plea to guilty.
As well as his prison sentence, Langley faces a hearing in which the crown will attempt to strip him of £250,000 (AU$616,000) worth of assets.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jimmy-Page.aspx


Franz Ferdinand singer upset over theft
Franz Ferdinand frontman Alex Kapranos was left fuming after his favourite vehicle was vandalised.
The "Take Me Out" singer had parked his Mercedes outside his apartment in Glasgow, Scotland, but returned to find someone had stolen the front ornament badge off the vintage car.
"If anyone knows who snapped the badge off the front bonnet when it was parked outside my flat, can you give his balls a wee boot from me?" Kapranos said.
The Scottish rockers are currently writing new material for the follow-up to 2005's You Could Have It So Much Better.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Franz-Ferdinand.aspx


Strippers: Kanye West a cheapskate
US rapper Kanye West is well known for his bravado, with recent boasts that his new LP, Graduation (released worldwide on Tuesday 11 September) will be the biggest-selling record in hip-hop history.
Now the hip-hop star is being accused of being a cheapskate, with the owner of a famous London lap-dancing club, Stringfellows, claiming the "Gold Digger" rapper enjoyed himself so much at the venue he forgot to pay the bill.
Peter Stringfellow said: "If the bling round his neck had fallen off, it could have paid for holidays for all of my girls."

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


Mötley Crüe inspire Dire Straits hit
British band Dire Straits have the 80s LA hair metal scene to thank for "Money For Nothing", the song that helped the band sell more than 30 million albums.
According to a recent interview, the group's mega-hit was inspired by a trip to an American mall, where the band saw a wall of TVs screening a Mötley Crüe video.
Suddenly those (somewhat questionable) lyrics begin to make sense: "See the little fag**t with the earring and the makeup, yeah buddy that's his own hair" and "Bangin' on the bongos like a chimpanzee".
Crüe frontman Nikki Sixx is, apparently, flattered by the song.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Dire-Straits.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Motley-Crue.aspx


Sean Kingston to portray Notorious B.I.G.
US r&b star Sean Kingston is set to play Notorious B.I.G. in a film being produced by Sean "Diddy" Combs.
"When I first heard about that movie, it was through management," Kingston revealed.
"My management told me about it and, you know, I auditioned for it and I met with the director and I nailed it and he gave me a shot at being in the movie."
According to Kingston, it was the rap mogul's mother, Voletta Wallace, and two former managers, Wayne Barrow and Mark Pitts, who made the final decision.
Notorious B.I.G. was shot to death in Los Angeles in March 1997.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Sean-Kingston.aspx


David Bowie says Dr Who rumours are "rubbish"
Despite making a killer cameo in British comedy series Extras, UK singer David Bowie has debunked rumours suggesting he'll star in an episode of sci-fi series Dr Who.
According to the singer, the rumours are nothing more than "absolute tish and tosh", with the BBC also releasing a statement saying the story was false.
Newspaper The Sun had claimed the singer was to star as an evil alien, who steals crime writer Agatha Christie in a feature length version of the cult TV show. Bowie admits he was approached to star in Dr Who, but that was 20 years ago. He's currently working on curating the upcoming High Line Festival in New York City, which is held in an abandoned railway park.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/David-Bowie.aspx


Daft Punk head to Oz for debut tour
French house legends Daft Punk will touch down in Australia in December for what promises to be one of the biggest tours of 2007.
Despite a 14-year career, Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter have never played Down Under but now bring their "Never Ever Land Tour" to our shores.
Support will come from The Presets, Muscles, Euro dance duo Sebastian & Kavinsky and Bang Gang DJs. Tickets go on sale Thursday 13 September.

Tour dates:

Friday 14 December – Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne
Sunday 16 December - The Esplanade, Perth
Thursday 20 December - The Riverstage, Brisbane
Saturday 22 December - Homebush Showgrounds, Sydney

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Daft-Punk.aspx

Aug 30

Sigur Ros to drop DVD and double CD
[source: NME.com] Sigur Ros will release a DVD and a double CD in the US on Tuesday 6 November.
The DVD, Heima (meaning "at home" or "homeland"), features a series of free concerts the Icelandic band played in their homeland during summer 2006.
Highlights include a previously unreleased performance of "Guitardjamm" (filmed inside a herring oil tank in the far West Fjords), a one-mic recording of "Vaka" (filmed at a dam protest camp) and acoustic versions of "Staralfur", "Agaetis Byrjun" and "Von".
The double CD is titled Hvarf/Heim (meaning "disappeared/home").
The first disc consists primarily of songs the band feel have disappeared from their history because they were never released or recorded. They were played acoustically on the road during the summer tour.
The second disc contains live acoustic versions of tracks from all four Sigur Ros studio albums that were recorded in Iceland during summer 2006 and spring 2007.
An exclusive screening of Heima will be held in Akureyri, Iceland on Friday 14 September before it officially premieres at the Icelandic International Film Festival in Reykjavik on Thursday 27 September.

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


Keith Richards lashes out at Swedish newspapers
[source: NME.com] Keith Richards has demanded an apology from Swedish newspapers that panned The Rolling Stones' concert in the country earlier this month.
Two tabloids, Expressen and Aftonbladet, gave the Friday 3 August show at Ullevi stadium in Goteborg scathing reviews, with Expressen alleging Richards was very drunk and Aftonbladet giving it a two on a five-point scale.
"This is a first!" Richards wrote in a letter published by Stockholm daily Dagens Nyheter.
"Never before have I risen to the bait of a bad review. But this time… I have to stand up… for our fans all over Sweden… to say that you owe them, and us, an apology.
"There were 56,000 people in Ullevi stadium who bought a ticket to our concert and experienced a completely different show than the one you 'reviewed'.
"How dare you cheapen the experience for them… and for the hundreds of thousands of other people across Sweden who weren't at Ullevi and have only your 'review' to go on.
"Write the truth. It was a good show," Richards concluded.
Aftonbladet's music critic Markus Larsson retorted: "I am not going to apologise for my subjective opinion.
"It is Keith who should apologise. After all, it costs around $145 (AU$177) to see a rock star who can hardly handle the riff to 'Brown Sugar' anymore."

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


Fall Out Boy and Ashlee Simpson get together
[source: NME.com] Fall Out Boy have collaborated with Ashlee Simpson on a track.
Fall Out Boy singer and guitarist Patrick Stump worked with Simpson on a track for Victoria Asher, the keytar player with Cobra Starship.
Cobra Starship are signed to Fall Out Boy member Pete Wentz's label, and Wentz is apparently dating Simpson.
Writing on her Myspace, Asher said: "I recorded keys, Patrick Stump recorded the bass and drums with midi and Ashlee Simpson helped me with some of the lyrics."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Fall-Out-Boy.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Ashlee-Simpson.aspx


Amy Winehouse heads to the Caribbean
[source: NME.com] Troubled singer Amy Winehouse is currently on holiday in St Lucia, after shunning rehab once more.
After her in-laws called for the public to boycott her records until she recovers from her drug problems and her father responded by voicing concerns that the two families were "pulling in different directions", Winehouse has fled to the Caribbean with husband Blake Fielder-Civil.
The pair had previously been admitted to a private rehab centre on an island off the Essex coast. They have not announced how long they plan to spend on holiday, or if they plan to continue their rehab course.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Amy-Winehouse.aspx


Talib Kweli, Scribe and DJ Zeph & Azeem head Down Under
Some of the finest names in hip-hop are headed our way, with the announcement of a tour by US rapper Talib Kweli.
With new LP Ear Drum out now, Kweli is one of the most influential names in rap, having performed live since he shot to fame as part of Black Star back in the late 90s.
Joining Kweli on the road is New Zealand rapper Scribe, who's also about to drop his second longplayer, Rhymebook. Meanwhile, San Franciscan outfit DJ Zeph & Azeem are also along from the ride, with national broadcaster Triple J having promoted the hell out of the duo's latest LP, Rise Up.
Tickets go on sale Thursday 6 September.

Tour dates:

Sunday 7 October – The Forum, Melbourne
Wednesday 10 October – Metro City, Perth
Thursday 11 October – HQ, Adelaide
Friday 12 October – Enmore Theatre, Sydney
Saturday 13 October – The Arena, Brisbane

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Talib-Kweli.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Scribe.aspx


Surprise: Courtney Love mouths off
Never one to shirk the spotlight, former Hole frontwoman Courtney Love has weighed in on Owen Wilson's recent troubles.
The Hollywood star was taken to hospital after a reported suicide attempt on the weekend, and now Love reckons the Zoolander star's problems are due to the company he keeps. In particular, her beef is with ex-boyfriend Steve Coogan.
"Under normal circumstances I would not comment but I care too much about Owen," Love said. "I went through it with Steve. I was just out of rehab and he was right there with the drugs. I tried to warn Owen. I tried to warn his friends. I hope from the bottom of my heart that Owen stays the hell away from that guy."
Coogan found Hollywood fame after portraying Manchester music icon Tony Wilson in 24 Hour Party People.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Courtney-Love.aspx


Groove Armada bring in New Year's Eve in Sydney
With a huge collection of classic dance hits to their name – think "At The River", "I See You Baby", "Superstylin'", "Easy" and "If Everybody Looked The Same" – British duo Groove Armada are the perfect choice of soundtrack to bring in the New Year.
Andy Cato and Tom Findlay will perform on Bondi Beach at the annual Shore Thing event on Monday 31 December.
Tickets for the gig are guaranteed to sell fast when they go on sale at 12pm on Monday 10 September.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Groove-Armada.aspx


Kylie Minogue reunites with Oliver?
According to French and British media outlets, Kylie Minogue and Oliver Martinez may be back together, with the singer set to undergo a "revolutionary new treatment" in order to help her fall pregnant.
Minogue, who's currently working on her "comeback" album with Scottish producer Calvin Harris, is, according to British newspaper The Sun, about to embark on new medical procedures in order to kick her fertility into gear. "She knows that time isn't standing still and wants to start a family sooner rather than later," a source allegedly told the paper.
"She's been taking advice on whether she's physically fit enough now, and whether medical science is advanced enough to consider going ahead with the operation. She adores children and has always wanted her own family."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kylie-Minogue.aspx


Clare Bowditch unleashes The Moon Looked On
Melbourne singer-songwriter Clare Bowditch has had a very busy year so far.
Having won accolades for her previous release, 2005's gorgeous What Was Left, Bowditch has spent most of 2007 raising her new twin boys. She's also managed to write and record her soon-to-released third LP, The Moon Looked On, with husband and producer Marty Brown (Art Of Fighting).
New single "When The Lights Go Down" (the story of "a tragic love reconciled") will be released on Saturday 8 September, with the album following in October.
Bowditch is also busy curating the Chill Island Festival on Victoria's Phillip Island, where she'll perform alongside the likes of Paul Kelly, Gotye and US moppet Ben Kweller.
Then there's her album launch, a series of dates for which tickets go on sale Wednesday 5 September. That's one busy mum!

Tour dates:

Wednesday 31 October –The Powerhouse, Brisbane
Friday 2 November – Seymour Centre, York Theatre, Sydney
Sunday 4 November – Chill Island Festival, Phillip Island
Friday 9 November – Fly By Night, Fremantle
Saturday 10 November – Fowlers Live, Adelaide

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Clare-Bowditch.aspx


Madge to adopt baby girl?
With adoption officials from Malawi heading to Madonna's London home to check on the welfare of 22-month-old adoptee David Banda, the pop icon is reportedly set to adopt another child, this time a 13-month-old-girl named Mercy.
According to rumours in the UK, Madonna and husband Guy Richie have been given the green light to expand their family after going through a complicated adoption process for David. As David was, Mercy is currently living in a Malawian orphanage, despite the fact that a relative – an aunt who is sadly too destitute to house the child – is still alive.

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

Aug 29

Bo Diddley suffers heart attack
[source: NME.com] Bo Diddley suffered a heart attack during a medical check-up in a Florida hospital and is now in a stable condition, his spokeswoman said on Tuesday (28 August).
The 78-year-old rock pioneer felt ill during his check-up at North Florida Regional Medical Center, and was transferred to the emergency room where the heart attack occurred. He then underwent a surgical procedure to help the blood flow to his heart.
Diddley suffered a stroke in May that impaired his ability to speak and has already lost toes to diabetes.
The rhythm guitar style he pioneered has influenced several major rock bands, including The Rolling Stones and U2.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Bo-Diddley.aspx


The Killers, New Order, Bowie for Joy Division movie soundtrack
[source: NME.com] The Killers, David Bowie and New Order all appear on the soundtrack to Control, the forthcoming film about Joy Division singer Ian Curtis.
The tracklisting includes three New Order instrumentals – "Exit", "Hypnosis" and "Get Out" – recorded especially for the film.
The soundtrack, out Monday 1 October, also includes The Killers' cover of Joy Division's "Shadowplay", which has been a regular in the Las Vegas band's summer festival sets.
Classics from David Bowie, Roxy Music and Kraftwerk, which all feature in the movie, are also included. The film is due out in the UK on Friday 5 October.

Control tracklisting:

New Order – "Exit"
The Velvet Underground – "What Goes On"
The Killers – "Shadowplay"
Buzzcocks – "Boredom" (live)
Joy Division – "Dead Souls"
Supersister – "She Was Naked"
Iggy Pop – "Sister Midnight"
Joy Division – "Love Will Tear Us Apart"
Sex Pistols – "Problems" (live)
New Order – "Hypnosis"
David Bowie – "Drive-In Saturday"
John Cooper Clarke – "Evidently Chickentown"
Roxy Music – "2HB"
Joy Division – "Transmission" (cast version)
Kraftwerk – "Autobahn"
Joy Division – "Atmosphere"
David Bowie – "Warszawa"
New Order – "Get Out"

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/New-Order.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-Killers.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-Velvet-Underground.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/David-Bowie.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Roxy-Music.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kraftwerk.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Buzzcocks.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Joy-Division.aspx


Amy Winehouse's dad responds to in-laws boycott calls
[source: NME.com] Amy Winehouse's father has responded to calls from her in-laws to boycott the singer's records.
The parents of the singer's husband, Blake Fielder-Civil, asked fans not to buy Winehouse's records until she cleans up.
However, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Mitch Winehouse said he thought the in-laws could do more to help Amy and Blake.
"It is a horrible situation and our family and Blake's family are living through hell," he declared. "We have had medical advice, but the facts are very, very simple – the day after they came out of the facility we had a meeting with the GPs, specialists in dependency issues and eating disorders."
Mitch said Giles and Georgette Fielder-Civil had not fully supported that attempt.
"Giles and Georgette were due to come to that meeting but they chose to go for a drink in the pub with Amy and Blake," he claimed. "We have two families pulling in different directions. We want our children to be safe, but we have different definitions of how we can do that."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Amy-Winehouse.aspx


Delta wants to be a mum
Aussie pop starlet Delta Goodrem – who unveiled a sexy new image at an industry showcase in Sydney last week to promote new single "In This Life" (out Saturday 15 September) – says she wants to be a mother to the two children of her boyfriend, ex-Westlife singer Brian McFadden.
McFadden is currently in a bitter custody battle with his former wife, Atomic Kitten singer Kerry Katoma, who's demanded full custody of five-year-old Molly and four-year-old Lily-Sue.
"I love them and they are a part of our lives," Goodrem said.
The former Neighbours star has been dating McFadden since December 2004 and is due to drop her third LP in November.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Delta-Goodrem.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Westlife.aspx


Natalie Imbruglia scared about big-screen comeback
With greatest hits release Glorious: The Singles due for release next month, Natalie Imbruglia says she's looking forward to returning to the world of film, even though it scares her.
The "Torn" singer is reportedly preparing to film indie flick Elise in Adelaide this October/November.
"I've done one movie in 10 years and no TV since Neighbours,'' Imbruglia told Britain's Daily Star newspaper.
"I really want to do film but I have no idea if I'm a good actress anymore.''
With five new songs, Glorious is "intended as a celebration of Imbruglia's decade-long music career", according to the singer's label.
Imbruglia currently lives in the UK with husband and Silverchair frontman Daniel Johns.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Natalie-Imbruglia.aspx


Lily Allen up to no good
UK pop singer Lily Allen is such a big fan of reggae artist Bobby Kray that she tried to remove him from the stage at last weekend's Notting Hill Carnival in London.
Kray, a former school bus driver, was performing tracks from debut album Tales From A Skinny White Boy when Allen rushed the stage, wrestling Kray for his microphone before pushing him off the edge. Kray hit back by throwing Guinness over Allen.
Stay tuned for the inevitable duet.

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

Trent Reznor: Smashing Pumpkins are "corporate"
Nine Inch Nails frontman Trent Reznor has labelled Chicago rockers Smashing Pumpkins "corporate".
"I was never a big Smashing Pumpkins fan… not to sh*t on Billy [Corgan] or anything, but I don't hear anything that would make me want to care," Reznor confessed.
"I think trying to resurrect the name Smashing Pumpkins is all a bit corporate for me."
Nine Inch Nails are due to return to Australia next month for a follow-up show after earlier gigs were postponed due to illness.

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


Britney Spears under investigation for child abuse
Britney Spears is reportedly under investigation for child abuse.
According to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald, the "Toxic" singer has to answer allegations that her sons have "poor dental hygiene, eating and sleeping habits".
Spears' ex-hubby, Kevin Federline, has reportedly filed papers with California's Department of Children and Family Services, stating the 26-year-old singer gives the couple's two young sons "bottles of fizzy drinks and lets them snack on sugary food".
Federline is seeking full custody of the children, following Spears' partying and erratic behaviour, and it's reported Spears' mother, Lynne, is siding with her former son-in-law.
A hearing in the custody case has been scheduled for Tuesday 4 September.

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


Madge heads to the Holy Land
Kabbalah devotee Madonna is set to show her devotion to the offshoot of the Jewish faith by heading on a ten-day pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
But according to web rumours, she won't be travelling alone. The megastar is said to be chartering a private jet for herself and other high profile Kabbalah devotees, including good mates Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher and husband Guy Ritchie.
The party will jet off to Israel and Palestine for the trip, which falls next month around the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah.

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

Aug 28

Danger Mouse joins forces with The Black Keys
[source: NME.com] Danger Mouse has revealed he is working on The Black Keys' fourth studio album, due for release in 2008 on Nonesuch.
The producer has just finished Martina Topley-Bird's new album, The Blue God. The former Tricky collaborator also plans to release her album next year.
Meanwhile, Danger Mouse and Gnarls Barkley cohort Cee-Lo Green are working on the follow-up to last year's St Elsewhere at a ranch in Atlanta, Georgia. They are planning to release the record late this year or early next year.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-Black-Keys.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Gnarls-Barkley.aspx


Fall Out Boy, Timberlake sweep Teen Choice Awards
[source: NME.com] Fall Out Boy, Justin Timberlake, Fergie and Timbaland earned top honours at the Teen Choice Awards held in Los Angeles on Sunday 26 August.
Fall Out Boy took home the Rock Group award, while Timberlake received Best Male Artist and Fergie was named Best Female Artist. Timbaland earned the Rap Artist honour.
Meanwhile, Vanessa Hudgens of High School Musical beat out both Lily Allen and Amy Winehouse in the Breakout Female Artist category, and Akon trumped Mika for the Breakout Male Artist award. Gym Class Heroes went home with the Breakout Group award.
Fergie performed "Big Girls Don't Cry" at the show, while Avril Lavigne brought down the house with hit single '"Girlfriend".

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Lily-Allen.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Justin-Timberlake.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Fall-Out-Boy.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Fergie.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Gym-Class-Heroes.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Avril-Lavigne.aspx


The Killers team with Lou Reed on new track
[source: NME.com] Lou Reed will sing on a Killers track that's set to appear on the Las Vegas band's forthcoming B-sides and rarities album.
Frontman Brandon Flowers told NME.COM the group have been recording "Tranquilize" in a New York studio this week with producers Flood and Alan Moulder.
"We were thrilled at being able to work with Lou Reed," Flowers said.
"The song was calling for a duet and his voice was just right. The sentiment of the song is very him.
"There's a desperation to it. It's one of our more depressing songs, but there's always a light at the end of the tunnel."
Although the song will be part of a B-sides compilation, Flowers said he believes it's one of the band's strongest tracks.
"It's a song that really should've been on [last album] Sam's Town," he said.
The compilation is due out before the end of the year and will feature material that may be new to many US listeners.
"A lot of our American fans may not even know about these songs because they're B-sides to singles in England," he said.
Flowers said the idea for the compilation came from two of his favourite bands.
"I'm a big fan of The Masterplan by Oasis and Hatful Of Hollow by The Smiths. It's for our fans who want the whole collection in one package."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-Killers.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Lou-Reed.aspx


Malawian social worker to assess Madonna
[source: NME.com] A social worker from Malawi will travel to London next week to assess Madonna's suitability to adopt a child from the African country.
The official, Penstone Kilembe, said Madonna was "looking forward" to the process.
In a further twist to the ongoing saga, Kilembe added that the government had reversed an earlier decision preventing him from visiting the star. He said blocking his visit could have jeopardised Madonna's attempt to adopt David Banda, the child she was granted custody of last October.
At that time, Malawi was criticised for fast-tracking Madonna's adoption process. She was granted an 18-month interim custody order, enabling her to take the baby out of Malawi until officials decided whether or not she should get full adoption rights.
According to Reuters, Kilembe said the refusal of Kate Kainja, the Malawian minister of women and child development, to grant him permission to assess Madonna and husband Guy Ritchie's suitability to adopt the boy could have caused the entire process to "crumble".
Kainja was reported in a Malawian newspaper as saying that Kilembe had "personalised the whole issue" and that she felt other officials should make the assessment in his place.
But Kilembe will now make the trip himself. The proposed visit will last for two weeks from Tuesday 4 September.
The adoption will only receive final approval when the country's authorities are satisfied the child is being properly looked after.

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


Pussycat Doll says sexy isn't everything
American singer Nicole Scherzinger – frontwoman for reality TV stars Pussycat Dolls – says people should stop judging her on her looks and focus instead on her music.
The group have been criticised for being formed out of a former burlesque act in Los Angeles, but Scherzinger has lashed out at those who say the girls are nothing more than eye candy.
"I read blogs and I hear what people are saying about me, and I think that it's a compliment [when people say] that I'm keeping it sexy, because that's just me," the singer said.
"I'm an artist and that's why I'm here, and if anyone feels different then give it a shot and give it a listen, and you'll see."
Scherzinger is about to release her debut solo LP, My Name Is Nicole.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-Pussycat-Dolls.aspx


Ronnie Wood told Kate Moss to ditch Docherty
Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood has revealed he gave advice to English model Kate Moss about troublesome on-off boyfriend Pete Doherty.
In an interview with UK rag the Daily Mirror, Wood said: "Well, he wasn't exactly very good for her, was he? I was just encouraging her, saying, 'Go on, girl. I'm glad you've got rid of him'."
According to the 60-year-old rocker, "someone had to do it".
The pair are good pals, with Moss hiding out at Wood's house to escape the media after the split earlier this year.
Meanwhile, Docherty has reportedly headed back into rehab once again in an effort to clean up his act and win Moss back.

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


My Bloody Valentine to reunite?
One of the most seminal acts to come out of the UK's shoegazer scene, My Bloody Valentine, are rumoured to be considering an offer to perform at next year's Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in California.
According to Billboard magazine, the Kevin Shields-led outfit have been regularly approached by the festival's promoter, Paul Tollett, who managed to score huge coups with reformation gigs for the likes of Rage Against The Machine, Crowded House and Jesus & Mary Chain.
However, Shields' manager, Vinita Joshi, said "there are no confirmed [My Bloody Valentine] shows at all".
My Bloody Valentine's 1991 LP, Loveless, is considered one of the most influential records in British history.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/My-Bloody-Valentine.aspx


James Blundell falls for Australian Idol competitor
Local country singer James Blundell has confirmed his marriage is over, following reports he left his wife of nine years for a 23-year-old Australian Idol contestant he met while performing at a race meeting in Broken Hill.
The 43-year-old former jackeroo – who hit the top of the charts back in 1992 with his James Reyne duet "Way Out West" – said he heard Jesse Curran sing at the racetrack last October and "was floored".
"He is happier than he has been for some time," Blundell's manager, Neil Richards, said. "He actually wrote a track for Jess on his new album, Ring Around the Moon. Jesse does back-up vocals on the album."
Lidia Blundell, his wife and mother of two sons – Travis, 5 and Briar, 9 – isn't so pleased.
"The marriage is over now and I would never take him back," she told the Sunday Herald. "My focus now is on my two boys and on getting on with our lives."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/James-Blundell-James-Reyne.aspx


Dave Navarro dives into pornography
Flamboyant guitarist Dave Navarro, who's performed in some of Los Angeles' most seminal bands, including Red Hot Chili Peppers and Jane's Addiction, is now turning his hand to pornography.
Navarro was keeping busy by hosting hit reality TV series Rock Star, which set about finding new lead singers for the likes of INXS and Supernova (the latest band featuring drummer Tommy Lee). But with the show's demise, Navarro is reported to be moving into the pornography industry.
He appears in a the new series by porn star Tera Patrick, in which she convinces musicians to direct a porn film. Navarro's flick is called "Broken" and should be released on DVD next month.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-Panic-Channel.aspx


Drugs found at home of rapper DMX
Hip-hop star DMX is likely to be in trouble after a police search of his Phoenix home on the weekend.
Law enforcement officers were called to the rapper's abode to investigate claims of animal cruelty. Twelve pit bulls were removed from the house after they appeared to be hungry and dehydrated, while three more dogs were found buried.
That's not the only trouble for DMX: officers also found "a considerable amount" of illegal narcotics.
Sheriff Joe Arpaio said the investigation into alleged animal cruelty is ongoing and "the suspected drugs are being tested to confirm their content".
DMX's lawyer, meanwhile, said the rap star hasn't been home for almost two months and the dogs were meant to have been looked after by a caretaker.
It's not the first animal trouble for the rap star: back in 2002 he was arrested on animal cruelty, disorderly conduct and possession of drug paraphernalia charges in New Jersey.

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

Aug 27

Billy Corgan disses American girls
[source: NME.com] Smashing Pumpkins closed the Main Stage at the Carling Weekend: Reading festival last night (Sunday 26 August).
Taking to the stage at 10pm, the Chicago band made their way through 90 minutes of material both old and new. The full moon was amplified against a cloudless sky as the band tore through favourites like "Tonight, Tonight", "1979" and "Today".
Midway through the set, stage cameras panned the crowd, which included a scantily clad young woman.
"There's something about a girl who's willing to take her top off so quickly," Corgan commented.
"American girls are sl*ts too," he added. "Isn't it great to be alternative? You can say all those things."
Corgan then launched into a solo acoustic version of "1979".
"We're very humbled to be back on this stage," Corgan concluded at the end of the show. "Miracles can happen."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Smashing-Pumpkins.aspx


The Eagles to release first album in 28 years
[source: NME.com] Seventies soft rock legends The Eagles are preparing to release their first studio album in 28 years.
The band's belated follow-up to 1979's The Long Run, Long Road Out Of Eden will hit stores on Monday 29 October. The first single to be taken from the record will be called "How Long".
The Eagles split in 1980 but reconvened for the Hell Freezes Over tour in 1994 and have been playing intermittently ever since. The group's Greatest Hits 1971-75 is one of the best-selling albums in US recording history, shifting 29 million copies to date.

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


Paul McCartney to release career-spanning DVD
[source: NME.com] Paul McCartney plans to release a DVD looking back on his solo career.
The McCartney Years, out Monday 12 November, will feature solo music videos, live performances, personal commentary and exclusive footage.
Volume One and Volume Two contain a collection of videos, starting in the 1970s with Macca's first solo single, "Maybe I'm Amazed", and going through to 2005's "Fine Line". The films can be viewed either in chronological order or as pre-determined playlists featuring exclusive McCartney voiceover commentaries.
Volume Three includes live performances taken from three classic shows – "Rockshow" on Wings' 1976 world tour, the "Unplugged" show from 1991 and McCartney's headline performance at Glastonbury in 2004.
The bonus features and extras include never-before-seen footage and performances, including "Let It Be" from Live Aid in 1985, archive interviews with Melvyn Bragg and Michael Parkinson, alternative versions of music videos and 2005's full-length documentary, Creating Chaos At Abbey Road.
McCartney has recorded exclusive commentary and personal introductions for each promo video and each live concert.
The DVD will be available in widescreen and 5.1 surround sound.

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



Amy Winehouse says husband "saved her"
Amy Winehouse and husband Blake Fielder-Civil hit the headlines again over the weekend when the pair were snapped bloody and bruised after an argument in a London hotel.
In a series of text messages with American celebrity blogger Perez Hilton, Winehouse denied her husband attacked her.
"Blake is the best man in the world. We would never ever harm each other," she wrote. "Take back what you said on the blog. I thought you was my girl. I was cutting myself after he found me in our room about to do drugs with a call girl and he rightly said I wasn't good enough for him. I lost it and he saved my life."
Winehouse sent four separate texts to Perez, who has since amended his entry. It's just the latest scandal for 23-year-old Winehouse, who is rumoured to be battling drug and alcohol problems.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Amy-Winehouse.aspx


Toni Braxton battling breast cancer
American soul singer Toni Braxton – who shot to fame with the single "Unbreak My Heart" and is currently performing in a Las Vegas stage spectacular – is reportedly suffering from breast cancer.
The mother of two hasn't confirmed the reports, but media coverage in the US claim Braxton is secretly undergoing radiation treatment and chemotherapy.
"Toni is a fighter," a source allegedly told the National Enquirer. "She initially thought the worst, but doctors assured her the prognosis for her breast cancer is excellent."
If true, it'll be the second serious medical problem for the Grammy winner; in 2002 she was diagnosed with the heart condition pericarditis after passing out following a show.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Toni-Braxton.aspx


Tim Rogers unleashes The Luxury Of Hysteria
You Am I frontman Tim Rogers will release new solo album The Luxury Of Hysteria on Saturday 29 September.
The LP will be released on his own label, Ruby Q Records, and preceded by first single "When Yer Sad".
To launch the album, Rogers will hit the road with members of his other band, The Temperance Union, in October. Tickets go on sale Friday 31 August.

Tour dates:

Wednesday 3 October – The Sydney Opera House
Thursday 4 October – The Sydney Opera House
Friday 5 October – The National Theatre, Melbourne
Monday 8 October – The Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Tim-Rogers.aspx


Are Britney's pets okay?
You can't help but feel some pity for troubled pop singer Britney Spears: first there was the breakdown of her marriage to Kevin Federline and then came the weird head-shaving incident, rehab and a custody battle.
Now the "Oops I Did It Again" star is being investigated by American animal charity the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) after her dog was spotted wearing a cast.
"We have received various complaints throughout the day," SPCA's president, Madeline Bernstein, said on Saturday 25 August.
"Some said that Britney's Yorkie dog was injured and had a cast on and some said the dog had a broken leg and was not treated."
Today Spears' publicist has shrugged off the report, saying the pooch was fine.

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


Groovin' The Moo returns to Albury
Grinspoon, Sneaky Sound System and Kid Confucius are among the first round of acts announced for the annual Groovin' The Moo gig.
Last year's Maitland show attracted Silverchair, The Black Keys and The Presets, but it's Albury's turn this year to host a string of top music acts.
Also on the bill are Xavier Rudd, Midnight Juggernauts, Blue King Brown, Airbourne, Clare Bowditch & The Feeding Set, Mia Dyson, The Bamboos, Mammal, Horsell Common, The Third Estate (local Band), Urthboy, Hermitude, Astronomy Class, The Tongue, Unkle Ho, Combat Wombat and Diafrix.
The festival takes place on Saturday 24 November, with tickets on sale Monday 3 September.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Grinspoon.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Xavier-Rudd.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Midnight-Juggernauts.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Urthboy.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Unkle-Ho.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Hermitude.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Astronomy-Class.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kid-Confucius.aspx


James Blunt heads to Oz
UK crooner James Blunt is returning to Australia for a whirlwind promotional tour.
Blunt, who shot to fame with "You're Beautiful", will spend a week in Oz promoting new LP All The Lost Souls. The album will be released on Saturday 15 September, with Blunt due Down Under on Saturday 13 October.
"I am so excited to be returning to Australia," he said. "I have a lot of friends there and this will be my chance to thank everyone for their phenomenal support of my first album."
Blunt will perform one invitation-only concert on Thursday 18 October in Sydney. Tune into radio station Nova for the chance to win tickets.

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

Aug 23

Fugees star says he'll never work with Lauren Hill again
[source: NME.com] Rapper/actor Pras claims a Fugees reunion will never happen, thanks to Lauryn Hill.
Speaking to Allhiphop.com Pras said: "Before I work with Lauryn Hill again, you will have a better chance of seeing Osama Bin Laden and [George W.] Bush in Starbucks having a latte, discussing foreign policies. At this point, I really think it will take an act of God to change her, because she is that far out there."
Recent reports of Hill's diva-like behaviour have been well-publicised, including her insistence on being addressed as "Miss Hill" by everyone around her.
Meanwhile, Pras is currently working on his second album, Experience, due to be released later this year.
He is also preparing for the release of the Skid Row documentary, in which he lives in disguise as a homeless person in the notorious Los Angeles area.
"I felt that it was important for me to do this film, to show how serious this situation is," he said. "Obviously homelessness is not sexy. It's embarrassing and a lot of people out there think all homeless people are lazy or on drugs. Sometimes it boils down to lack of support and family."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-Fugees.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Pras.aspx


Eskimo Joe excite at Club NME LA
[source: NME.com] Eskimo Joe played a rousing set at Club NME Los Angeles with Fred Perry Subculture on Wednesday 22 August.
The Australian rockers performed several tracks from recent album Black Fingernails, Red Wine, which recently hit top spot on the Aussie charts.
"We're here for your non-stop pleasure," frontman Kavyen Temperly said as the band kicked off their 45-minute set.
After the gig, Temperly told NME.COM: "This is our first trip to the States, so it's heartening to see that at every gig we're bringing in new fans."

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


Morrissey rejects fresh attempt at Smiths reunion
[source: NME.com] Morrissey has revealed he has turned down almost AU$99 million to tour again with The Smiths.
The star, who also rejected a request to headline the Coachella Festival with the group in 2006, was asked if he would perform 50 shows throughout the world in 2008 and 2009.
The only condition was that he would have to tour with the band's guitarist and co-songwriter Johnny Marr, thus meaning the reunion was not dependent on the participation of bassist Andy Rourke and drummer Mike Joyce.
Joyce famously won a court case against Morrissey and Marr in 2006, when he sued for royalties from his days in the band. The proceedings caused a massive rift that has never healed.
The Smiths split in 1987, shortly after they recorded fourth studio album Strangeways Here We Come. Speculation that the band would reform has been rife for years.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Morrissey.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-Smiths.aspx


Justin Timberlake teams with Austin Powers
[source: NME.com] Justin Timberlake is set to team with Austin Powers actor Mike Myers in The Love Guru.
Myers will co-produce the film, in which he plays a man who is raised by gurus and goes on to issue marriage guidance.
Fantastic Four actress Jessica Alba and Verne Troyer, who starred as Mini-Me in the Austin Powers films, will also make appearances.
Filming will begin next month in Toronto, according to BBC News.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Justin-Timberlake.aspx


The Hold Steady inspire comic book
[source: NME.com] The Hold Steady have been immortalised in a comic book.
The Brooklyn band's most recent album, Boys And Girls In America, has inspired an animated book in which each song from the album has its own section, and the lyrics are the words.
The rockers are offering the comic book via their website.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-Hold-Steady.aspx


Beyonce says there was no skin
US r&b superstar Beyonce Knowles says reports she accidentally flashed her breast during a recent Canadian concert are false.
The "Bootylicious" singer was performing in Toronto when her top flew up, exposing her chest. While the scene has been caught on the web, Knowles' publicist insists there was no skin.
"She's wearing a flesh-tone bra!" her publicist told MTV.
"Do you really think Beyonce would go onstage like that?"

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Beyonce-And-Shakira.aspx


Britney shaved head to save sons, says friend
Britney Spear shaved her head in January because she was scared her hair would be tested for drugs, according to a friend of the singer.
"Kevin [Federline, ex-husband] taunted Britney and said smoking marijuana near her would leave traces that could be picked up by drug testing," the friend allegedly told British daily The Sun.
"He threatened to use that against her in a custody battle."
Of course, Spears' trips to rehab and erratic behaviour have since seen Federline take her to court anyway. The pair are battling over custody of Sean Preston, two, and 11-month-old Jayden James.

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


Ben Kweller returns to Oz
American songwriter Ben Kweller loves Australia so much he's returning to our shores for the fourth time in October.
With 13 dates planned for capital cities and regional centres, Kweller's Gotta Move tour will see him accompanied by Perth band The Howlin' Novocaines.
Tickets for all shows are on sale now.

Thursday 18 October – Fowlers Live, Adelaide
Friday 19 October – Hyde Park Hotel, Perth
Saturday 20 October – Settlers Tavern, Margaret River
Sunday 21 October – Newport Hotel, Fremantle
Wednesday 24 October – The Zoo, Brisbane
Thursday 25 October – Newcastle Uni, Newcastle
Friday 26 October – Gaelic Club, Sydney
Saturday 27 October – The Roxy, Parramatta
Tuesday 30 October – Wrest Point Show Room, Hobart
Wednesday 31 October – Karova Lounge, Ballarat
Thursday 1 November – Hi Fi Bar & Ballroom, Melbourne
Friday 2 November – Ferntree Hotel, Ferntree Gully
Saturday 3 November – Peninsula Lounge, Moorooduc

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Ben-Kweller.aspx


Madge sells record label
Pop queen Madonna has sold off the remaining interest in her record label, Maverick Records.
The "Like A Virgin" star formed the company with business partners Guy Oseary and Ronnie Dashev 12 years ago and had recently taken legal action against Maverick parent companies Warner Music and Time Warner, alleging breach of contract and mismanagement.
According to Maverick lawyer Bert Fields, relationships between Warner and Madonna are still good and the singer will continue to record for them.
"It was an effective way of settling the lawsuit," he said of the sale. "It's clean and equitable, and it doesn't have anything to do with her record contract."
Artists on Maverick include Alanis Morrisette, Erasure and The Prodigy.

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


Death not Jackson's fault, says judge
Michael Jackson's lawyers have managed to uphold a legal challenge from the family of a Los Angeles woman.
The family of Manuela Gomez Ruiz sued the superstar after Ruiz was forced to move hospital rooms to make way for Jackson. Ruiz was on a life support system following a heart attack.
She later suffered yet another heart attack and her family argued her care was postponed due to the crowds surrounding the hospital.
A Californian judge has disagreed, however. The Ruiz family now have 30 days to appeal.

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


P. Diddy party: no fireworks, please
He's as famous for his extravagant bashes as he is for making music, but US rap superstar P Diddy won't be lighting up the night at his annual all-white Labor Day party in the East Hampdens.
Town officials have said no to Diddy's request to spend AU$123,000 on fireworks for the 2nd September bash.
They're worried boaters might decide to park a little too close to the rocky area where the fireworks were due to be let off, and so it's back to the drawing board for Diddy's party planners.
Town Supervisor William McGintee said there were, however, no permit issues for the party. The 37-year-old mogul is estimated to be worth more than AU$34 million.

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

Aug 23

Foxy Brown sentenced to jail
[source: NME.com] Foxy Brown has been sentenced to jail for violating the terms of her probation.
A New York judge revoked the rapper's probation on Wednesday due to her arrest earlier this month for allegedly hitting a neighbour with a Blackberry device. She was originally on probation for attacking two manicurists at a nail salon in 2004.
"She has an air of entitlement about her," Department of Probation lawyer Matilde Leo said at a hearing in Manhattan Criminal Court.
"Probation is a privilege, not a right… She has finally abused that privilege to the point of no return."
According to Associated Press, Brown has been jailed until her next hearing on Friday 7 September.
Brown's lawyer argued the case against the rapper was weak and it was unnecessary to send her to jail. He claimed she's turning her life around and is three months' pregnant.

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


Guns N' Roses frontman teams with Bach
[source: NME.com] Guns N' Roses frontman Axl Rose has teamed with former Skid Row frontman and long-time pal Sebastian Bach on Bach's forthcoming solo album.
Rose appears on two of Angel Down's tracks. The first song, "(Love Is) A B*tchslap", is the album's first single. The second track is a cover of Aerosmith's "Back In The Saddle".
Bach, who sings on the forthcoming Guns N' Roses album, said he asked Rose to return the favour as a joke.
"I just texted Axl: 'Hey, dude, when are you gonna come and sing on my record?'," Bach told Blabbermouth.
"I was just joking. But he never ceases to amaze me. His response was, "When? Where? What time? Where is the studio? What time do you want me there?". I was, like, 'You've gotta be kidding me. Pinch me, I'm dreaming'."
Angel Down is due out in the US on Tuesday 20 November. It is Bach's first solo album since 1999's Bring 'Em Bach Alive.

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


R Kelly judge allows video to be shown
[source: NME.com] The judge in the R Kelly child pornography case has upheld his ruling to allow the public to view a videotape that allegedly shows the singer having sex with a minor.
In a pre-trial hearing, Assistant State's Attorney Shauna Boliker again asked Judge Vincent Gaughan to bar the public from viewing the tape in court. She argued it would be harmful to the girl in the video.
In his earlier ruling, Gaughan said there was not an "overarching interest" in keeping the media and the public from seeing a tape that is the "lynchpin" of the case.
However, at the pre-trial hearing, Gaughan said that because the girl has denied she is on the tape, there is no victim to protect. Prosecutors said they do not plan to call the girl as a witness.
The court also heard several pre-trial arguments on Tuesday 21 August, including whether a prosecution expert should be allowed to testify.
Boliker said she is planning to call Sharon Cooper, a developmental and forensic paediatrician, to testify that the girl's recent reluctant behaviour is typical for someone who has been the victim of sexual abuse.
Gaughan is expected to rule on Cooper's testimony and other pre-trial motions on Monday 10 September.

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


Britney shuns Justin
[source: NME.com] Britney Spears has allegedly withdrawn from recording a duet with one-time paramour Justin Timberlake, which was to be produced by Timbaland.
Timberlake allegedly wrote the duet specifically for Spears and, although they wouldn't be together in the studio, his voice would have been mixed with hers.
A source said: "Timbaland set aside a week out of his crazy schedule to do this. Then, just before she was supposed to fly out, Britney abruptly cancelled the session and refused to do the song.
"It's crazy. She's looking for a comeback and this would have not only been a huge hit, but something she could have opened the MTV Video Music Awards with."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Britney-Spears.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Justin-Timberlake.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Timbaland.aspx


John Mayer and Cameron Diaz get cosy
US pop singer John Mayer must have a thing for blondes.
Having recently broken up with Jessica Simpson, reports in the US media claim he's hooked up with leggy actress Cameron Diaz.
According to People magazine, 29-year-old Mayer and 34-year-old Diaz were seen "laughing and talking a lot" at a New York City club.
"It looked like a casual date," a source told the magazine. "She was giggly, laughing and seemed happy."
One of Mayer's crew members reportedly told the magazine it was "definitely true". Diaz was involved in a scandalous relationship with married magician Criss Angel (who was recently snapped with Britney Spears) following her break-up with Justin Timberlake last year.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/John-Mayer.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Justin-Timberlake.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jessica-Simpson.aspx


Wave Rock Weekender announced
Summer festival fever is well and truly here, with yet another event announced this week.
The second Wave Rock Weekender will take place from Saturday 29 September to Monday 1 October on the edge of the desert in Hyden, West Australia. And, with only 800 tickets available, organisers have warned fans not to expect a typical festival experience.
"This is no English country garden or sports oval event. The reason [acts] come along is because they like the opportunity to play to discerning people in an inspirational location and they support our environmental and artistic vision."
Topping the bill is Katalyst, with Mia Dyson, C.W. Stoneking, The Drones, Day Of The Dead, Sunshine Brothers, Hermitude, Jess McEvoy and Snowman also set to take the stage.
Tickets go on sale Monday 27 August. For more info, visit www.soulhighway.com.au.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Drones-The.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Katalyst.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/C-W-Stoneking.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Snowman.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Hermitude.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Whitley.aspx


Bette Midler: tree logger
Hollywood actress and singer Bette Midler has angered residents of Kauai (one of Hawaii's biggest islands) after she felled more than 220 trees from her property without a permit.
Now the Board Of Land And Natural Resources is recommending Midler be fined AU$8,082 for the illegal move. It's also alleged she built a road on land zoned for conservation use.
Midler's attorney, Max W. J. Graham, said the star will pay the fine and follow a replanting program.
"The whole idea with cutting the trees down was with the idea of improving the lot with native species," Graham said. "It's unfortunate a mistake was made."
Meanwhile, Midler is set to replace Canadian crooner Celine Dion as the headline performer at Las Vegas' Caesars Palace in 2008.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Bette-Midler.aspx


KT Tunstall urges Thom Yorke to keep touring
Scottish singer-songwriter KT Tunstall is worried Radiohead might never tour again.
Thom Yorke is an ardent supporter of environmental issues and recently hinted Radiohead may cease touring to avoid damaging the planet further.
"I don't agree with that argument [that touring is bad for the environment]," 32-year-old Tunsall said.
"He puts out less carbon output than a massive conglomerate company… Please, go on tour! So many people will follow what you say because they really respect you. And they know that you really know what you're talking about."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kt-Tunstall.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Radiohead.aspx


JD's no Hutchence, according to INXS filmmaker
He may have taken over the frontman duties for legendary Australian band INXS, but movie producer Nick Egan says singer JD Fortune is no Michael Hutchence.
Egan is currently working on Slide Away, a film about Hutchence (who died on 22 November, 1997, from an apparent suicide at the former Ritz-Carlton hotel in Double Bay, Sydney).
"I would love to play a porter in the hotel or like a chauffeur in one of the scenes. I think that would be really cool," JD told reporters.
But Egan's not interested. When asked by a journalist if there was a spot in the film for the Canadian singer, Egan's answer was short and sharp: "I think not".

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


The Drones head back to Oz
Melbourne rockers The Drones will embark on a national tour in September and October.
The group have just returned from a 60-date trek across Europe, which involved tour van breakdowns and dodgy accommodation.
They'll be hoping for better luck when they hit the road in Australia to promote new DVD Live In Madrid (see www.thedrones.com.au).
Following the jaunt, the four-piece will head to the US for more shows before starting work on the follow-up to hit record Gala Mill.
Perth outfit Snowman join The Drones for the Australian dates. Tickets are on sale now.

Tour dates:

Friday 28 September – The Bakery, Perth
Saturday 29 September – Wave Rock Weekender, Hyden
Saturday 6 October – Republic Bar, Hobart
Thursday 18 October – Annandale Hotel, Sydney
Friday 19 October – Annandale Hotel, Sydney
Saturday 20 October – The Zoo, Brisbane
Thursday 25 October – Karova Lounge, Ballarat
Friday 26 October – Ruby's Lounge, Belgrave
Saturday 27 October – Corner Hotel, Melbourne

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

Aug 22

Amy Winehouse calls off North American tour
[source: NME.com] Amy Winehouse has postponed her tour of North America until early next year.
The singer has recently been in and out of hospital and was forced to cancel a slew of dates in August. She has now officially called off her September tour of the US and Canada as well.
"Due to the rigors involved in touring, Amy Winehouse has been advised to postpone her upcoming US and Canadian tour dates," a statement read.
"Amy's European and UK dates in October and November remain in place. Plans are being made to reschedule her US tour for early 2008. Until then, Amy has been ordered to rest and is working with medical professionals to address her health."
Winehouse is slated to perform at the MTV Video Music Awards in Las Vegas on Sunday 9 September, but her appearance looks increasingly unlikely.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Amy-Winehouse.aspx


Foxy Brown in trouble for driving offence
[source: NME.com] Foxy Brown was taken to a New Jersey police station on Wednesday 15 August after being caught driving while talking on a mobile phone and running a stop sign.
When police pulled her over, the singer reportedly lied about her name and age. When the correct information was obtained, a record check showed her to be driving on a suspended license.
Brown was then taken to the police station where she was issued seven traffic tickets and ordered to appear in court on Tuesday 4 September.
Brown was arrested in Brooklyn in a separate incident last week after allegedly hitting her neighbour with a Blackberry device. She is also on probation for an assault on a Bloomies salon employee in New York in 2004 and was arrested a number of months ago for assaulting a beauty shop employee in Florida.

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


Klaxons' mystery B-side revealed
[source: NME.com] The identity of the mystery track that sneaked onto a Klaxons single has been revealed.
As previously reported, 500 copies of the limited edition seven-inch version of "It's Not Over Yet" were pressed with one side playing the single and the flipside featuring a unique etching.
However, instead of an etching, it was actually a mystery song.
NME.COM can now reveal the song was "Y.O.Y" by London girl-band The Priscillas.
A mysterious statement said: "The girls are just as baffled about how the track got there. Maybe some mysterious forces have been in action. A superhero, perhaps?"
Speaking to NME.COM, the band, who have just released their "Superhero" single, revealed: "Some fans emailed us. We didn't believe them. We still don't.
"We're all fans of the boys. It's weird – that song seems to be the reverse of a cursed song. It's a blessed song."

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


Lily Allen lays into George Bush
[source: NME.com] Lily Allen has reacted to reports that her anti-Bush tirades at V Festival were connected to her US visa issues.
In a post on her Myspace blog, Allen said: "Just because I hate George Bush doesn't mean I hate America. Quite the opposite. I think the US is a great place and I am really sad that I can't be there for my commitments scheduled for the near future.
"What I said about George Bush this weekend bears no relation to what happened a couple of weeks ago with my visa. That's an issue with the US immigration service."
The star also explained why she raised a drink to Amy Winehouse, who has recently gone through rehab for issues with substance abuse.
"Me raising a drink to Amy was just that – me showing my support for her. I've been around enough substance abuse and alcoholism to know it's a serious matter, not to be taken lightly."

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


Pete Doherty walks free
[source: NME.com] Pete Doherty walked free from court on Tuesday morning.
The Babyshambles man was at West London Magistrates Court to face charges of breaching his bail, however the singer did not even appear in front of the judge after it was decided the court had no jurisdiction in the matter.
For the breach of bail to be considered, Doherty had to appear in court within 24 hours of being called. However, as he was held by police yesterday and could not appear in time, the charges became void.
The singer will have to reappear at Bethnal Green police station on Wednesday 31 October relating to his recent arrest for suspected possession of drugs.
Meanwhile, he must return to West London Magistrate's Court on Tuesday 4 September to be sentenced for his arrest in May for possession of class A drugs.

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


Gwen Stefani covers up for Malaysia
US pop singer Gwen Stefani covered up when she hit Malaysia for her Sweet Escape tour, having been labelled a "corrupter of youth" in the lead-up to the show.
The 10,000-member National Union of Malaysian Muslim Students protested against Stefani's concert, believing her show would promote promiscuity and non-Muslim values.
"I am very inspired tonight," the 37-year-old told the crowd, taking to the stage in a black leotard, which she wore under a white skirt and striped hotpants and gloves. Throughout the concert, Stefani showed almost no skin.
"It is great to be here again."
About 60 per cent of Malaysia's population (26 million) are Muslims.

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


The Rolling Stones to retire?
Reports from the UK suggest British rockers The Rolling Stones may retire after completing their current world tour.
After almost 50 years in the music biz, a source close to the band has claimed Mick, Keith, Charlie and Ronnie are about to call it a day.
"We've been told this will be the last tour," an un-named crew member said. "Embarking on a Stones world tour takes years to plan. Mick and Keith would be in their late 60s by the time they would be ready to rock once more."
The Stones have released 55 albums and sold more than 300 million albums worldwide.

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


Up! Festival scrapped
Fans of Michael Franti & Spearhead, Ben Lee and Blue King Brown won't be pleased that next month's inaugural Up! Festival has been "rescheduled".
According to promoter Frontier Touring, "unforeseen circumstances" have forced the gig to change dates, although there's no word on what exactly what went wrong. Refunds are available, while Ben Lee headline tour dates will be announced shortly.
"Thanks to everyone who has dedicated their time to this exciting idea," Frontier added.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Michael-Franti-And-Spearhead.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Ben-Lee.aspx


New James Brown offspring discovered
An American woman has proved through DNA testing that she's the daughter of late soul singer James Brown. The discovery makes her the third child to be found in recent years.
Since Brown's death on Christmas Day 2006, more than a dozen DNA tests have been performed. They've ruled out several suspected offspring but others have been confirmed as his children.
The singer's will is currently being contested and names six children as his beneficiaries. Brown's final partner, Tomi Rae Hynie, hasn't had her own son tested, a matter of contention for lawyers as neither she nor James Brown II were named in his will.

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


Meredith Festival announces line-up
The Gossip and Andrew WK are among the first round of acts to be announced for the annual Meredith Music Festival.
The event, renowned for its offstage activities as much as its music, will take place from Friday 14 December to Sunday 16 December. Campers will be pleased to know a Breakfast In Bed feature has been added this year (coffee and juice delivered straight to your tent), while the popular nudie run remains.
Meredith organisers have implemented a Subscriber Ticket System, with one tree planted for every ticket sold. With free camping, no BYO restrictions and almost 30 acts to be announced, the 17th Meredith Music Festival promises to be one special event.
Other bands on the bill include Little Red, Eddy Current Suppression Ring, The Black Lips, Gotye, Cut Copy, Art Brut, Muscles, Clutch, Junior Reid, Ned Collette Band, Lady Strangelove, DJ MuGen and Midnight Juggernauts.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Gotye.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Midnight-Juggernauts.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Cut-Copy.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Art-Brut.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Ned-Collette.aspx


Wolfmother frontman in pub stoush
Wolfmother singer Andrew Stockdale learnt all about the price of fame on the weekend after being involved in a fight at the Emporium Hotel in Brisbane.
Stockdale was reportedly drinking with several young ladies when a male snapped a phone camera pic of him in a "compromising position".
The singer allegedly became agitated and tried to wrestle the phone from its owner.
"I saw the picture and it wasn't good," a witness told a News Limited reporter. "He wanted the phone so he could delete the picture."
Security were forced to intervene and Stockdale was asked to return to his room.

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

Aug 21

Dr Dre suing Death Row Records for The Chronic
[source: NME.com] Dr. Dre is suing his former record label Death Row over the rights to his classic 1992 album, The Chronic.
The rap titan filed the lawsuit last Wednesday at the US Bankruptcy Court in Los Angeles. It includes claims the now defunct label is attempting to sell copyrights for the album that launched Snoop Dogg's career.
Dre handed over rights to the label in 1996 when he struck an agreement whereby the company retained copyrights for The Chronic provided it continued to pay him royalties. In 2000 he cancelled the agreement, claiming he had received no royalties.
Dre is asking the court to officially rescind the agreement and force Death Row to return the copyrights to him. He is also seeking restitution from Death Row's use of the copyrights, according to Forbes.

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


Madonna to leave record label?
[source: NME.com] Rumours abound that Madonna is considering leaving Warner Music, the label she has been signed to since 1982.
The singer is allegedly in talks to move to Live Nation, the venues and promotions company, in a deal that would combine the singer's future recording and touring activities. It is allegedly valued by music industry executives at £50.5 million ($AU125million).

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


Kanye West reacts to fallout over homophobia comments
[source: NME.com] Kanye West has told of the reaction he received after speaking out against homophobia.
West, who went to number one with single "Stronger" last night, was quoted as calling rap too homophobic.
"Speaking out against hip-hop homophobia, some people were like 'Oh, Kanye must be gay! Look at the way he's dressing! And why would he speak about it? He's a gay rapper'," he notes. "And my whole point is, I wouldn't have spoke on that if I was gay or if I was in the closet. I would have stayed so far away from it.
"And I'm still homophobic myself to a certain extent… You know, I wouldn't go to a gay parade and feel comfortable. I wouldn't ever go to a gay club or something and just be chillin' and grab a drink.
"In the entertainment world, I meet so many different gay people who are actually nice. Where I came from, Chicago, being black and being a hip-hop artist, we used to really disrespect gay people. And the thing is, we can't get close to them with a ten-foot pole. And I realised, 'Wow, how ignorant has this been?'."

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


Chemical Brothers return
Internationally renowned big-beat duo Chemical Brothers will bring their explosive live show to Australia in March 2008 when they hit the road in support of chart-topping album We Are The Night.
"I just feel it's a blessing to be able to do something that gets people out of their homes and experiencing something together," Ed O'Brien said of the tour.
With five albums, three Grammy Awards, countless hit singles and some nine million album sales to their name, Chemical Brothers are one of the biggest names in the business and O'Brien can't wait to head back Down Under.
"When you play live and see a sea of people with their hands in their air, smiling, that's what I feel most proud of: making music that is loud and powerful enough to bring people together."
Tickets go on sale Friday 24 August.

Tour dates:

Wednesday 5 March – Vodafone Arena, Melbourne
Friday 7 March – Sydney Entertainment Centre

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-Chemical-Brothers.aspx


Good Charlotte: no pics, please
According to reports in the US, Good Charlotte rocker Joel Madden has told paparazzi to stop photographing him with women other than his pregnant fiancé, Nicole Richie.
The singer was snapped telling off waiting photographers at a party at the Village Pourhouse in New York City, just days after he was spotted keeping company with a young blonde.
Madden recently told TV hosts Regis and Kelly that he's planning on proposing to his socialite girlfriend, who is due to give birth in late January, and said he's sick of hearing reports the couple are breaking up.

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


Kylie Minogue to give up music?
Having completed filming on the Christmas special for UK cult TV series Dr Who, Aussie pop star Kylie Minogue is, according to reports, planning on down-sizing her career to "concentrate on what's important".
"She wants to concentrate on seeing if she and Olivier can work things out, focus on herself and even start a family," a close friend reportedly told UK tabloid The Daily Mail.
"After the album, there'll possibly be a tour and the final additions she wants to make to Brand Kylie. That's really it."
Meanwhile, the wife of the Chilean film director Minogue was rumoured to be having an affair with, Alexander Dahm, says she's over the speculation.
"I had my baby three weeks ago so am resting here," Laura Dahm told a British reporter from her parents' house in Mexico.
"I am very tired and do not want to talk. This has all been too much for me. There is nothing wrong with me and Alex."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kylie-Minogue.aspx


Silverchair and Powderfinger announce tour supports
If you didn't buy your ticket for the upcoming sold-out Powderchair tour – the national trek by Powderfinger and Silverchair – you might be kicking yourself right now.
The tour kicks off on Wednesday 29 August in Newcastle and the bands have just announced the local acts who will be supporting them across the country.
From the indigenous sounds of Arnhem Land outfit Narbarlek to new rap sensation Street Warriors, Powderfinger and Silverchair will also be joined on the road by the likes of The Beautiful Girls, Expatriate, Andrew Morris, Dan Kelly, Blue King Brown, The Scare, Kev Carmody, Something With Numbers, Epicure and Wire MC. For more information, see www.acrossthegreatdivide.com.au.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Silverchair.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Powderfinger.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Andrew-Morris.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Youth-Group.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Something-With-Numbers.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Expatriate.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Dan-Kelly.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kev-Carmody.aspx


Two die at Ozzfest
Two men have died at US music festival Ozzfest after embarking on a drink and drugs spree in Holmdel, New Jersey.
Raymond Guarino, 26, and Patrick Norris, 24, were hoping to catch acts like Hatebreed, Lamb Of God and Devildriver, but were taken to a nearby medical centre after taking cocaine, marijuana and alcohol at the event. They were pronounced dead upon arrival.
Live Nation, the promoter of the Ozzfest shows, washed their hands of any wrong-doing and claimed they cannot police the festival car-park as it's not officially part of the event.
"Although we do not have jurisdiction over the parking lot, we fully support the decision of the New Jersey Turnpike Authority and State Police to ban alcohol on the parking lot premises," they said in a statement.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Hatebreed.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Lamb-Of-God.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Static-X.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Devildriver.aspx


Pete Doherty arrested yet again
Babyshambles frontman Pete Doherty has been arrested yet again on drug charges.
The singer, who performed four hours late at the V Festival in the UK on Sunday 19 August, was grabbed by police not long after the event's closure, with a Scotland Yard spokesman confirming that "a 28-year-old man was arrested in east London on suspicion of possession of drugs".
Doherty is due back in court on Tuesday 4 September to answer similar charges and there's a good chance he'll receive a custodial sentence.
Meanwhile, according to NME.com, Babyshambles are set to make a "huge" announcement tomorrow. Stay tuned.

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

Aug 20

Pink takes a pop at Britney at V Festival
[source: NME.com] Pink had a sly dig at fellow pop singer Britney Spears during her slot at the V Festival in Staffordshire on Sunday evening.
Following recent tabloid reports linking Spears to everything from lesbian romps to an affair with a magician, Pink opted to change one of her lyrics during her V appearance to comment on the singer's current woes.
During "Don't Let Me Get Me", she changed "tired of being compared to damn Britney Spears – she's so pretty" to "she's so crazy", a move that drew laughter and cheers from the crowd.
But Spears wasn't the singer's only target; Pink also took aim at George W Bush.
"I wanna get political for a second," she told the crowd ahead of "Dear Mr President".
"Maybe after one year of playing this song, the world might be a better place," she said before playing the song accompanied by images of soldiers, explosions, crying children and the US leader.
However, with the set also including covers of Janis Joplin's "Summertime" and 4 Non Blondes' "What's Up", Pink did enjoy a few lighter moments. At one point, she asked to borrow some hairspray from a girl in the crowd after her towering blonde mowhawk began to sag.

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


Jamie Foxx to take on another music role
[source: NME.com] Jamie Foxx is set to play another musical genius, this time a mentally unstable violinist.
Foxx, who won an Oscar in 2005 for his portrayal of Ray Charles in Ray, will play Nathaniel Anthony Ayers, a Juilliard student who had a nervous breakdown, aged 20.
Ayers quit the famed school and lived homeless on notorious Skid Row in Los Angeles until LA Times columnist Steve Lopez spotted him playing violin near a statue of Beethoven.
The pair's friendship is set to be the focus of the movie, which will begin filming in January. It's unclear who will play Lopez.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jamie-Foxx.aspx


Radiohead collaborate with school children
[source: NME.com] Radiohead have collaborated with students on their new album.
Bassist Colin Greenwood and producer Nigel Godrich invited 30 Junior Extension children from Matrix Music School & Arts Centre to work on new material.
According to Matrixmusicschool.co.uk, the experience was "great fun and we're looking forward to the release date".
They'll have to wait a while: the band recently confirmed the record won't be out until 2008.

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


Amy Winehouse's husband backs singer
Blake Fielder-Civil, the husband of UK singer Amy Winehouse, has lashed out at the British media for blowing his lady's reported drug and alcohol problems out of proportion.
Civil, who married Winehouse in early 2007, said the singer's troubles aren't his fault.
"Everyone thinks that what's happened to Amy is my fault and I'm portrayed as the bad guy," he told UK daily The Mirror.
"But I just want everyone to know that I love her so much. She's so precious to me. She's my wife and I want to take care of her, which is why I'm taking her back to rehab… If we were going to send a message to Amy's fans we would say, 'Don't worry, she's being looked after'. We're going back to this retreat. Amy's fine."
Winehouse was forced to cancel her appearance at last weekend's V Festival due to "severe exhaustion".

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Amy-Winehouse.aspx


Lily Allen not allowed into USA
Despite her manager assuring fans everything would be fine, UK pop starlet Lily Allen has been forced to cancel a series of gigs in America.
The US government isn't too happy about allowing someone who's currently facing assault charges into the country. Allen was recently denied a visa after allegedly punching a photographer earlier this year.
"I am so disappointed I won't be able to come to the States at this time," the singer wrote on her website.
"I was really looking forward to playing these shows and being part of the Video Music Awards. I want my fans to know that I'll be back as soon as I possibly can!"

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


Natalie Bassingthwaighte heads to Hollywood
Rogue Traders singer and former Neighbours star Natalie Bassingthwaighte is moving to Los Angeles to try her luck in the American music industry.
Bassingthwaighte will head off this week after she wraps up the vocals on the outfit's third LP, Better In The Dark.
"I'm going over on Wednesday to set up home," Bassingthwaighte told the Sydney Morning Herald.
"Then I'll go back and forward in between. I'll come back whenever I'm needed for Rogue Traders stuff."
The "Voodoo Child" singer has a US agent for acting work and a lead in a new Aussie horror film, Prey.
"With Rogue Traders taking off [in the US], at least with me being there someone's on the ground," Bassingthwaighte said. "Hopefully there'll be some offers for film or TV work as well. My agent has been asking when I'm coming for months. I'm excited to go over there, have some meetings and start the ball rolling."
The Traders' new single is "Don't You Want to Feel?".

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Rogue-Traders.aspx


Back to school for Method Man
US hip-hop star Method Man is heading back to high school after he was ordered to visit 15 inner-city New York schools to talk to students about the dangers of drug use.
The rapper, once a member of the Wu-Tang Clan, was arrested in May after a toll-booth worker in the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel smelt marijuana coming from his car.
Pleading guilty to drug charges, the "Bring The Pain" star is "thrilled" to visit the schools, according to his defence attorney, Peter Frankel.
"He's never been in trouble before. He's not a stereotypical rapper."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Method-Man.aspx


Kristin Hersh heads Down Under
Former Throwing Muses singer Kristen Hersh – now a respected solo artist in her own right – is heading to Australia for the first time in more than 12 years.
The songwriter, who's been heavily involved in more than 15 albums during the past 20 years, has a new record to unleash.
"No sound went down on this record unchallenged," Hersh said of Learn To Sing Like A Star.
"If we'd heard it before – a surf-guitar, for instance – we layered it with piano reverb, tubular bells and backwards bass to create an unusual hybrid tone with more character."
Hersh recorded the disc with British musicians Martin and Kim McCarrick, as well as a few of her old Throwing Muses collaborators.
Tickets to her Australian shows go on sale Monday 27 August.

Tour dates:

Thursday 11 October – Corner Hotel, Melbourne
Friday 12 October – The Palais, Hepburn Springs
Wednesday 17 October – The Heritage Hotel, Bulli
Thursday 18 October – Clarendon Guest House, Katoomba
Friday 19 October – The Basement, Sydney
Sunday 21 October – Fremantle Arts Centre

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kristin-Hersh.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Throwing-Muses.aspx


Uncle Kracker arrested for sexual assault
Michigan-born singer-songwriter Uncle Kracker was arrested on the weekend in Raleigh, North Carolina, on a second degree sex offence.
According to Billboard.com, the singer – who first shot to fame after hanging out with good mate Kid Rock – has been accused of performing a "violent sexual act" on a woman, which, according to local newspaper The Post-Chronicle, involved putting his hand up her dress.
The woman reportedly hit the singer, who then hit her back.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Uncle-Kracker.aspxa

Aug 17

Jay-Z named richest rapper
[source: NME.com] Jay-Z has topped Forbes.com's Hip-Hop Cash Kings list, earning an estimated AU$44million last year.
Jay-Z sold two million copies of his 11th studio album, Kingdom Come, in 2006, and served as president and CEO of Def Jam Recordings.
In addition to his music-related endeavours, Jay-Z is part owner of the New Jersey Nets basketball team, and endorses Budweiser, General Motors and Hewlett-Packard.
50 Cent came in a close second, netting an estimated AU$41m last year. The rapper has sold more than 11 million albums, as well as overseeing the G-Unit record and clothing labels. P Diddy, Timbaland and Dr. Dre closed out the top five.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jay-Z.aspx


Ryan Adams quits drink and drugs
[source: NME.com] Ryan Adams claims he has quit drink and drugs for good.
The former Whiskeytown singer said he's gone cold turkey after kicking a long-term dependence on cocaine and heroin.
"I'd wake up, work, go for a drink or two and be exhausted," he told Rolling Stone magazine. "I would have drugs in order to never have to stop working in the night."
Adams revealed how, before recording new album Easy Tiger, his drug of choice was snorting a combination of heroin and cocaine.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Ryan-Adams.aspx


Violent Femmes in lawsuit
[source: NME.com] Violent Femmes members Brian Ritchie (bass) and Gordon Gano (vocals) are embroiled in a lawsuit over song credits and royalties.
The lawsuit, filed in the US District Court in Manhattan, accuses Gano of trashing the band's reputation by allowing its signature hit, "Blister In The Sun", to be used in an ad for fast food company Wendy's.
Gano called the lawsuit a "surprise" and added: "We just played a really, really good tour… Since the early 80s, everything's really good. We're playing better than ever."
The lawsuit said: "This action is the unfortunate culmination of an ongoing intra-band dispute between Ritchie and Gano over Gano's misappropriation and misadministration of Ritchie's interests in the jointly-owned songs and assets of the band."
The suit seeks a ruling declaring Ritchie half owner of the band's songs and an accounting of past and future royalties and unspecified damages.
Gano declined to respond in detail to the claims, except to say he wrote the band's songs… with one or two exceptions.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Violent-Femmes.aspx


Primal Scream join Thievery Corp man on new project
[source: NME.com] Thievery Corporation's Rob Garza has recruited members of Primal Scream to contribute to his new project, Dust Galaxy.
Primal Scream keyboardist Martin Duffy and drummer Darrin Mooney lent a hand on Dust Galaxy's self-titled album, which is due out in the US on Tuesday November 6.
Cornershop's Adam Blake and Didi Gutman of Brazilian Girls also contributed to the album, which is more rock-oriented than the electronica-based Thievery Corporation.
"This project finally allows me to step out from behind the control booth to continue expressing myself as a songwriter as well as a performer and musician," Garza said.

Dust Galaxy tracklisting:

"Sun In Your Head"
"Limitless"
"Mother Of Illusion"
"It's All Yours"
"River Of Ever Changing Forms"
"Sons Of Washington"
"Cherubim Sing"
"Overhead"
"Down"
"Come Hear The Tru"

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Primal-Scream.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Thievery-Corporation.aspx


Radiohead: No new album until 2008
[source: NME.com] Radiohead will not release their seventh album until 2008, despite having mastered the record in New York last month.
The band are currently out of contract and there is still no word on which label will release the music.
Meanwhile, Thom Yorke, under the pseudonym Dr Tchock, is set to re-issue Dead Children Playing, his literary collaboration with Radiohead cover artist Stanley Donwood.

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


Judge dismisses Michael Jackson's latest lawsuit
Embattled US pop star Michael Jackson has finally won a legal battle, with a Los Angeles judge dismissing the request of Nona Paris Lola Jackson to be awarded joint custody of the singer's children.
The 36-year-old woman claimed she was the natural mother to Jackson's ten-year-old son, Prince Michael, and nine-year-old daughter, Paris. However, Judge Robert Schnider didn't buy it.
"I feel her evidence fails to establish any genetic relationship," he said, "between herself and the Jackson-Rowe children."
Jackson has always maintained the mother of his children was former nurse/wife Deborah Rowe.

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


Madonna in shoot-up shock
Madonna has surprised some of her fellow airplane travellers by pulling out a syringe and injecting herself.
According to reports by Metro UK, passengers on a trans-Atlantic flight witnessed the singer pull out a vial of vitamins and inject herself before the plane landed. While a spokesperson for the 49-year-old wouldn't comment on the event, it's believed Madge – who ate no food and only drank water on the plane – was using vitamin jabs, apparently the latest fad in Hollywood.

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


Snoop is a nightmare neighbour
US hip-hop star Snoop Doog – who was banned from entering Oz earlier this year – is apparently not the kind of guy you want to live next to.
Residents in Claremont, California, are reportedly overjoyed the rap star has at last sold his home.
"There were regular parties, and they were loud. So we would receive a lot of noise complaints," neighbour Capt. Gary Jenkins said.
"There were a lot of cars in the neighbourhood and people loitering around in the streets."
Snoop moved out of the eight-bedroom house after showing off the residence on MTV reality show Cribs. The pad included five bathrooms, a home theatre room, a recording studio, a swimming pool and spa, a pool house, a basketball court and a tennis court.

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Snoop-Dogg.aspx


Pink in copyright battle
US singer Pink is facing legal troubles, with a New York painter suing her for featuring one of his works in the video for "U + Ur Hand".
Painter Vladimir Kush reckons Pink didn't have permission to use images from his "Countes Erotiques" in the clip, which was released back in 2006.
He's now filed a lawsuit against the singer and her label, Zomba, in the Manhattan District Court.
It's not the only headache for Pink, either. Her husband, motocross star Corey Hart, was recently snapped making out with a mystery woman in a nightclub.

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


Angelina's just dandy, says Common
US rapper Common, who recently topped the Billboard Charts with his Finding Forever LP, reckons Hollywood superstar Angelina Jolie is a sweetheart.
Common is currently making the film Wanted, a comic book adaptation by director Timur Bekmambetov, and plays a hit-man.
"Angelina was the best, I've gotta tell you," he said of his co-star.
"She was, like, one of the coolest people I've ever met. I felt like the way she was encouraging me was just really warm and cool, and she brought the family around. I got to meet Brad – everybody was cool, just down-to-earth people there. It's good to meet somebody who's such a big superstar and just so cool."

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


Elvis fans survive scorching heat for anniversary celebrations
Elvis Presley fans have ignored the Memphis heatwave to gather at Graceland to mark the 30th anniversary of the singer's death.
"I can't describe how I feel about him because I've loved him since I was a teenager," uber fan Katie Brown said. "When I would hear him sing, I'd go into a trance and nothing else around me mattered."
Almost 50,000 fans are expected to visit over the next few days.
"According to our guys who do special events – and they're experts at counting heads – the estimate is somewhere around 40,000," police spokesman Vince Higgins said. Presley was buried at his home after dying on August 16, 1977.

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

Aug 16

Foxy Brown in trouble again
[source: NME.com] Foxy Brown has once again been charged with assault after she reportedly hit her Brooklyn neighbour with a mobile phone.
Brown turned herself into police on Tuesday August 14 and was charged with felony assault, menacing, harassment and criminal possession of a weapon.
She reportedly hit her neighbour with her Blackberry and the victim suffered loosened teeth, swollen lips and a swollen eye.
This is the latest in a series of violent incidents involving the rapper, who was arrested earlier this year after assaulting a worker at a beauty shop on Florida. She was previously arrested for assaulting an employee at a branch of Bloomies nail salon in Chelsea, New York.
She is due in court on Wednesday September 26.

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


Fan to restore Elvis Presley's Palm Springs home
[source: NME.com] A fan of Elvis Presley has announced plans to turn the King's former California home into a tourist attraction.
Reno Fontana and his wife, Laura, recently bought the Spanish-style, five-bedroom home site unseen. They plan to restore it and offer Elvis fans another destination besides his Graceland home in Memphis, Tennessee.
"I want this to be Elvis of California," Fontana told Associated Press. "We may have our names on the deed, but we are the caretakers. This house belongs to Elvis fans around the world."
Elvis and his wife Priscilla Presley bought the home in April 1970 and lived there part-time with their daughter, Lisa Marie.
As previously reported, approximately 50,000 Elvis fans are expected to gather in Memphis tonight to perform a candlelit vigil to mark the 30th anniversary of the star's death.

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

Jimmy Eat World announce album details
[source: NME.com] Jimmy Eat World will release third album Chase The Light in October.
The band recently previewed material from the record, the follow-up to 2004's Futures, on their US tour and will perform much of the new material at Reading and Leeds.
The first single to be taken from the album is "Big Casino" and will be released at the end of this month.

Chase The Light tracklisting:

"Big Casino"
"Let It Happen"
"Like She'll Always Be"
"Carry You"
"Electable (Give It Up)"
"Gotta Be Somebody's Blues"
"Feeling Lucky"
"Here It Goes"
"Chase This Light"
"Firefight"
"Dizzy"

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Jimmy-Eat-World.aspx


Nine Inch Nails to become TV stars?
[source: NME.com] Nine Inch Nails are reportedly getting ready to turn their album Year Zero into a television programme.
The futuristic show is said to centre around a time when the US is ruled by a right-wing, religious dictatorship, reflecting the record's themes.
Frontman Trent Reznor said: "We've got a producer on board and have met with writers. We're about to pitch it to the network, so we're a couple of weeks away from meeting all of the main people, and we'll see what happens."
According to Blabbermouth, Reznor said he was also interested in turning the project into a film.

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


Morrissey fan film to be released
[source: NME.com] A film based on fans' relationships with former Smiths singer Morrissey is set to be released.
Passions Just Like Mine takes a look at various fans who have been influenced by the singer.
According to a statement on Urbancowgirlproductions.com, the film will be "a feature-length documentary that tells the story of how fan culture can manifest itself".
"The stories will be told through the eyes of the fans themselves. Audiences will be able to see first-hand how obsessed these fans really are and how they become that way."
The film is currently in post-production. No release date has been announced.

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


Victorian Minister sticks it to the Pussycat Dolls
US girl-group Pussycat Dolls have had their fair share of critics… and now Victorian MP Tony Robinson has joined the queue.
Labor's Robinson, the Minister for Gaming & Consumer Affairs, apparently caught a glimpse of a Dolls video while working out at the gym.
"This is allegedly a group of young women who sing, but anyone watching that video could be mistaken for thinking that, far from it being about singers, it is more like a travelling lingerie show," he told Parliament yesterday.
"The manner in which that group of girls is portrayed is nothing more than a deliberate and calculated effort to titillate an audience. Those sorts of videos are not artistic expression; they really are trash. They devalue women, they devalue music and they encourage the very behaviour that we are seeking to ban through this bill."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-Pussycat-Dolls.aspx


Britney Spears' former employees dish the dirt
Disgruntled former workers for Britney Spears are spilling the beans on their boss's behaviour, with one worker claiming Spears got drunk in front of her kids.
"She drinks in front of the kids," an unnamed worked told Us Weekly.
"At first, the drinks would help her loosen up and not be so angry. But she'd inevitably drink too much and be out of it, at which point the nannies would take care of the kids."
Spear's ex-husband, Kevin Federline, is currently seeking full custody of the couple's two sons.

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


Courtney Love poses nude and says skinny is okay
Controversial rocker Courtney Love has posed nude in the latest issue of Harper's Bazaar.
The singer – who is said to be finishing her latest LP, Nobody's Daughter – has been the target of much criticism over her extreme weight loss, which she says comes from "colonics and fasting", as well as dieting (not the secret gastric band procedure she's rumoured to have undergone).
"I hate reading magazines where the actresses are saying, 'Broccoli and fish, broccoli and fish'. You liars. You bulimic liars."
According to Love, Nobody's Daughter will be the first album "written sober".

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Courtney-Love.aspx


CRS: rap's new supergroup?
Three of the biggest names in hip-hop – Kanye West, Pharrell Williams and Lupe Fiasco – have already teamed for a one-off song, but now it looks like the lads of CRS (Child Rebel Soldiers) will complete a full-blown album.
Kanye West's mix tape, You Can't Tell Me Nothing, featured the trio rapping over Thom Yorke's track "The Eraser" on the number "Us Placers".
Now Fiasco – who's dropping into Sydney next week for a fleeting promo visit – has hinted a bigger disc is in the works.
"Our labels are working it out," he told Billboard.com. "Whoever is going to pay is going to pay a whole hell of a lot!"

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Lupe-Fiasco.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Kanye-West.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Pharrell.aspx


The Cops and Expatriate hook up
Fans of Sydney-based indie rock will be in heaven after the announcement that The Cops and Expatriate will embark on a national tour in September.
Both bands have enjoyed success in 2007 thanks to their latest LPs: The Cops' Drop It In Their Laps and Expatriate's In The Midst Of This.
Rotating the headline slot on each night of the tour, the bands kick off the tour in Brisbane on Friday September 28 before wrapping things up a month later in Melbourne.
"Expatriate are the perfect band to do a co-headlining tour with," The Cops frontman Simon Carter said.
"I can hear a lot of similarities between the two bands. We both have a firm love of melody and groove but we come at it from two very different angles, which I think will make for a sonically and visually exciting tour."

http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/The-Cops.aspx
http://bigpondmusic.com/Artist/Expatriate.aspx


Donny and Marie reunite
The original family supergroup, The Osmonds, have reunited onstage for the first time in more than two 20 years.
Donny, Marie and the five other members were recording two television shows and performed songs such as "Crazy Horses" and "Love Me For A Reason". Unbelievably, the shows will mark the 50th anniversary of the family's first incarnation, The Osmond Brothers.
Over the years, the Osmonds have been the butt of many jokes, but have sold more than 100 millions albums. Who's laughing now?

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