ALICE COOPER performs "Rock Candy" with Sammy Hagar and Richie Sambora

 

January 2, 2014 - Drummer Glen Sobel (IMPELLITTERI, ORIANTHI, SIXX A:M, PAUL GILBERT) has posted footage of the MONTROSE classic "Rock Candy" from the annual ALICE COOPER benefit for the Maui Food Bank which took place on New Years eve in Maui, Hawaii.

 

Alice Cooper and band were joined on stage by actors and rock legends performing their biggest hits, covers and some left field surprises with the AC band members serving as house band. Steven Tyler (AEROSMITH), Sammy Hagar (CHICKENFOOT, VAN HALEN), Richie Sambora (BON JOVI), 'Weird' Al Yankovic, Pat Simmons (DOOBIE BROTHERS), producer Bob Rock (METALLICA, MOTLEY CRUE) and actor Keith Carradine all performed along with actor Tom Arnold as the evenings emcee.

 

Original MONTROSE frontman Sammy Hagar and Richie Sambora took the stage with the band on "Rock Candy" which can be viewed at this location: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=di153Q83xaM. Alice's band for the night consisted of  Orianthi and Ryan Roxie on guitars, Chuck Garric on bass, and Glen Sobel on drums.

RHAPSODY OF FIRE - Dark Wings Of Steel

Like many fans worldwide I was quite anxious about how the band would sound without one of their main gears in their machine. It was 2012 when Luca Turilli left the band seeking new challenges for his work, leaving the rest of the band seeking new inspiration and continuing the legend. What seemed like a turning point though ends up into a very interesting approach and right from the first minute, the band is making it's statement loud and clear for everyone. They continue to play the same mixture of Power Metal, with tons of Symphonic elements, the kind of music that made them so famous all those years. All the things the fans loved with their previous works, are here, from the catchy choruses to the Epic elements, and the pompous arrangements, everything is here to assure that this change won't stop the train from running. On the other hand, this time things are a bit more traditional, and a bit more dark to fit the title. While all trademarks are here, this time the atmosphere is a bit more Metal and more harsh than before, giving a very interesting aspect to the music of the band, and maybe a glimpse of what's to come. Musicwise the album is moving on the same quality level, with huge arrangements, parts to sing along, catchy music and performances. To talk about the keyboard melodies of Staropoli or the work of Fabio Lione on vocals would be meaningless, since both musicians need no introduction or proof of their skills, but we have to mention the guitar work that has been done by Roby De Michelli. He is mostly responsible for the shift to a more Metal sound, with his catchy riffs and solos, and being the only guitarist on this album he has done a remarkable job. The arrangements are well worked, with enough diversity to please both new and old fans. Songs that contain all of the trademarks of the band, but also don't afraid to strip down to more natural and Metal forms, this album has more than enough breathtaking moments. For those who still have concerns, give this album some time, and you won't regret.  

BENEDICTUM - Obey

Benedictum is a band that comes from the other side of the Atlantic, presenting their version of Classic Heavy Metal with this new album, the forth in their career. The band is playing a style that combines all the classic elements of Heavy Metal, but sounds fresh and interesting at the same time, something that makes this album one of those that would stick into your player for a while. With the addition of a new drummer and a new bass player, the band presents their fourth work, and I am sure that they have every reason to be proud of it. Consisting on a female vocalist, Veronica Freeman, who not only has the looks, but has also the skill to sing in various ways, with the same high quality, she manages to color each song with her distinctive vocals. From every aspect, the vocals are a big plus, and one of the strong points of the album. Then there's the guitars of Pete Wells, who is also a gifted musician, something obvious from the first riff to the last complex solo melody. A solid rhythm section, with enough parts that will make your head bang with the groove, and plenty of melodies here and there to make things even more catchy and interesting. Another notable thing here, is that the band is not limited to just a style, but tries to incorporate various influences, not shifting from the traditional path though. This leads to songs that are a bit better than others, but this doesn't spoil the result or diminish the rank. One of the top moments of the album is the Power Ballad "Cry" where there's a duet with Tony Martin, "Evil That We Do" for it's groovy rhythm and the way the refrain sticks into your mind, "Fractured" for the frenzy rhythm, just to mention a few. All in all, the album is fun, although as I said before, some moments might tempt you pressing the skip button on the player. It's groovy and preserves enough of the 80's feeling in music, but it can't be described as retro in any moment. If you liked their previous works, or simply enjoy good Heavy Metal music, check them out.