The Damned announce limited edition 7" singles boxset

The Damned announced a five piece vinyl set The Damned: Stiff Singles 1976-1977. The limited edition 7" set contains the band's early singles including the band's previously issued fan-club exclusive "Stretcher Case Baby," (originally sent to fans in celebration of the band's first anniversary in 1977). The boxset will feature five 7" singles (see tracklisting below) with recreated original artwork, original press clippings, and an embroidered patch.

The Damned: Stiff Singles 1976 - 1977 is available exclusive through Pledge Music. Check out the tracklisting below and pre-order here.

The Damned teamed up with super-producer Tony Visconti and will return with a brand new studio record in 2018. The album is also available to pre-order through Pledge Music.

The Damned: Stiff Singles 1976-1977


Single 1: New Rose

1. New Rose
2. Help

Single 2: Neat Neat Neat

1. Neat Neat Neat
2. Stab Your Back
3. Singalonga Scabies

Single 3: Problem Child

1. Problem Child
2. You Take My Money

Single 4: Don't Cry Wolf

1. Don't Cry Wolf
2. One Way Love

Single 5: Fanclub single

1. Stretcher Case Baby
2. Sick Of Being Sick

Published November 30th, 2017

The Soft Moon return with 'Criminal' LP

The Soft Moon (aka Luis Vasquez) return with a new studio album Criminal on February 2nd. The follow up to 2015's Deeper promises to be another sizzling darkwave-ish extravaganza. Last month Vasquez issued the first song "Burn" and this week sees the premiere of another track titled "It Kills," which is about guilt and "a continual battle with the conscience."

Check out both singles below along with dates for a 2018 run of North America. Pre-order Criminal here and catch up with The Soft Moon here.





The Soft Moon - North American tour

Mar 27 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Johnny Brenda's
Mar 28 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall Of Williamsburg
Mar 29 -- Montreal, QC @ Theatre Fairmount
Mar 30 -- Toronto, ON @ Longboat Hall
Mar 31 -- Chicago, IL @ Empty Bottle
Apr 02 -- Saint Paul, MN @ Turf Club
Apr 04 -- Denver, CO @ Larimer Lounge
Apr 06 -- Portland, OR @ Mississipi Studios
Apr 07 -- Seattle, WA @ The Crocodile
Apr 08 -- Vancouver, BC @ The Cobalt
Apr 11 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Independent
Apr 13 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Teragram Ballroom
Apr 14 -- San Diego, CA @ Casbah
Apr 16 -- Las Vegas, NV @ The Bunkhouse
Apr 17 -- Phoenix, AZ @ Valley Bar
Apr 19 -- Dallas, TX @ Three Links
Apr 20 -- Austin, TX @ Barracuda
Apr 21 -- San Antonio, TX @ Paper Tiger
Apr 22 -- New Orleans, LA @ Gasa Gasa
Apr 24 -- Gainesville, FL @ The Wooly
Apr 25 -- Miami, FL @ Gramps
Apr 26 -- Tampa, FL @ The Crowbar
Apr 27 -- Atlanta, GA @ Aisle 5
Apr 28 -- Asheville, NC @ The Mothlight
Apr 29 -- Washington, DC @ DC9

Published November 30th, 2017

Video premiere: Morrissey "Jacky's Only Happy When She's Up On The Stage"

Morrissey premiered the official video for "Jacky's Only Happy When She's Up On The Stage." The catchy track is one of the stand out singles from Moz's new album Low In High School.

The video includes some incredibly awkward dancing/maneuvering but is otherwise a relatively straight forward performance clip. Check it out along with the previously issued video for "Spent The Day In Bed" below.





Published November 30th, 2017

The Fall cancel in Bristol: Mark E. Smith unable to perform

Devastating news for fans of Mark E. Smith and The Fall: last night's show in Bristol was canceled at the last minute due to Smith's failing health. The band told the sold out crowd at Fiddlers that Smith had recently undergone surgery and though he had made the trip from Manchester to Bristol, he was too ill to leave his hotel room.

Smith was hospitalized earlier this year for respiratory illness. He later was forced to cancel The Fall's U.S. shows after doctors advised him that traveling would negatively impact his ability to recuperate. Smith returned to the stage last month and performed in a wheelchair - fans reported he sounded great and was in good spirits.

The Fall are scheduled to play London tonight, however it seems unlikely the show will go on due to Smith's declining health.

Sending love, strength, and support to Mark E. Smith and The Fall.

UPDATE: Tonight's show in London has official been canceled + Mark E. Smith posts message to fans:

The Fall's manager Pam Vander posted a message on social media announcing the cancellation of tonight's gig in London. As part of the posting, Vander included a brief message from Mark E. Smith. Smith apologized for the show cancellations and revealed The Fall have recorded eight brand new songs and hope to premiere some of the music before year's end. Read Smith's message below along with Vander's full Instagram posting via The Fall Things.

A message to All, to All. From Mark E. Smith/The Fall group.

As I, like Pr Rupert leave Bristol with my tail between my legs, I wish to give my great apologies to everybody. This idiotic idea to do both shows was purely my idea, against the advice of Pamela and The Fall group, agent & promoter. Hope to replace shows within 4 - 6 weeks. In the interim we have eight new songs ready to go and will try and let you hear a few before Christmas. From head patient to you, the patients.

I love you all but cannot embrace you all, Mark E. Smith

FALL NOTICE: Good morning. Unfortunately as with The Fall show last night in Bristol (cancelled last minute) I'm sorry to say the same will be happening tonight. The London KoKo Club show is now CANCELLED. Can anyone who knows people going etc help get the word out... I really don't want people travelling for no reason in this bitter cold. I know it's not as last minute as last night, but it's still last minute in my eyes. And I'm really, really sorry. I can't think of much to say today, as all my focus is on Mark. And we are all a bit gutted. It's been a weird year. But the man himself has a message for you all, so I'm gonna post that right here, under this... Best, Pam V, manager. P.S big thanks to the promoter for both shows, Tobi, for being a real stand-up guy. A Message to All, to All. From Mark E. Smith/The Fall group. As I, like Pr Rupert leave Bristol with my tail between my legs, I wish to give my great apologies to everybody. This idiotic idea to do both shows was purely my idea, against the advice of Pamela and The Fall group, agent & promoter. Hope to replace shows within 4 - 6 weeks. In the interim we have eight new songs ready to go and will try and let you hear a few before Christmas. From head patient to you, the patients. I love you all but cannot embrace you all, Mark E. Smith

A post shared by Pamela Vander (@pamela_vander) on Nov 30, 2017 at 1:56am PST

Published November 30th, 2017
Edited @ 6:50am to add update

The Breeders, Stephen Malkmus + more play Bedstock

The Breeders, Stephen Malkmus, and Methyl Ethyl were among 100 acts that participated in Bedstock, the online music festival designed to support hospitalized kids with cancer and other serious illnesses across the country. Yesterday participating artists performed songs in bed for children spending the holidays stuck in bed, while also raising funds and awareness.

The festival was organized by MyMusicRx, an organization that provides hospitalized children with musical instruments, iPads with music apps and games, and more. Bedstock was part of GivingTuesday yesterday, however it's not too late to donate to the cause. Head here to learn more and to donate.

Check out some video from Bedstock below.









Published November 29th, 2017

Today: U2 partners with Amazon for 24 hour streaming event 'The U2 Experience'

U2 return with their new album Songs Of Experience on Friday, December 1st. In celebration of the release, the band partnered with Amazon for a 24 hour streaming event The U2 Experience. Amazon promises that the listening journey will look back on 40 years of U2 history and include 24 hours of music, exclusive interviews, and live performances.

It all starts today (November 29th) at 6pm ET right here on Amazon.

Published November 29th, 2017

Pearl Jam launch 8-bit 'Let's Play Two' game

Pearl Jam launched an 8 bit video game inspired by their new live concert film Let's Play Two.

The game, also titled Let's Play Two, is a home run hitting contest. Swing and hit the ball as far as you can. High scores unlock exclusive Pearl Jam content, so warm up your biceps (or at least your spacebar finger) and head here to play the free game.

Let's Play Two (the concert film) is available to purchase on DVD and Blu-Ray here.





Published November 29th, 2017

Gary Numan talks new LP 'Savage' + his principled vision

Gary Numan released his post-apocalyptic/concept album Savage: Songs From A Broken World in September. The concept: a future world in ruins; no technology, no food, no water; just desolation. A harsh savage environment destroyed by one man.

Numan is enjoying well-deserved success with the album, which did exceptionally well in the U.K. and received favorable to glowing reviews worldwide. His musical output from the last 10 years continues to experiment with new sounds and has gained him an exciting new fanbase with plenty of younger faces showing up at his gigs.

Numan has emphasized his principled vision many, many times in the past: his focus is solely on moving forward, experimenting with technology, and trying new things. He isn't interested in an idealized past, revisiting his impressive back catalog, or nostalgia of any sort. But Numan is constantly at battle with this because the music industry would rather he celebrate his past.

In a new interview with Noisey, Numan re-asserted his position on moving forward and shared his distaste for those who want him to live in the past:

"What they never get is, yesterday doesn't interest me. When something is 30 or 40 years in the past, I don't give a shit about it. What I care about is what I'm doing now, and what excites me is what I could be doing tomorrow.

"I never look back. If the best of me came out 40 years ago, what's the point in continuing? Why try to distill a creative life into one single moment? That kind of idea is so typical of journalists...How could anyone think that you belong to a finished era and that what you do today no longer matters? That would mean you gave your best at age 20. And after that, what – nothing? That's ridiculous."

"Frankly, all these comeback tours we're seeing from has-been 80s and 90s artists – it's ridiculous...I'd never participate in that kind of thing. When you do, it's basically admitting you have nothing new to give. And even if that were the case, I'd never accept it.

Though he's widely considered a pioneer in electronic music, Numan insists that he's not:

"Take Jean-Michel Jarre, for example. He was there years before me. Years! Now that's a pioneer, a man who did something completely different from what had come before, and not just from a conceptual or design point of view. What he was doing was radical. Even if I'm often presented as a pioneer, I don't feel it in my soul. I don't feel worthy of it. Jarre is one, though.

When I was starting out I made pretty unusual music, but more by accident than anything. I didn’t know how to write a song, and I hadn't completely mastered the electronic material that I had. So I was experimenting, trying things out. And maybe by pure luck, I ended up doing something pretty original."

The full interview is highly recommended reading. Numan discusses Savage, songwriting, synthesizers and more. Check it out over at Noisey.

Don't miss Gary Numan on the road in North America in support of Savage: Songs From A Broken World. Though Numan is focusing forward, fans can expect a few classics in the setlist. The tour plays Saint Andrew's Hall in Detroit on Thursday, November 30th. Tickets are available here.





Gary Numan - North American tour

Nov 28 -- Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
Nov 29 -- Chicago, IL @ Thalia Hall
Nov 30 -- Detroit, MI @ St. Andrew's Hall
Dec 01 -- Toronto, ON @ Opera House
Dec 02 -- Buffalo, NY @ Town Hall
Dec 04 -- Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
Dec 05 -- Jersey City, NJ @ White Eagle Hall
Dec 06 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer
Dec 07 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Street
Dec 08 -- Lancaster, PA @ Chameleon Club
Dec 09 -- Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
Dec 11 -- Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade/Heaven Stage
Dec 12 -- Nashville, TN @ Exit/IN
Dec 13 -- New Orleans, LA @ House Of Blues
Dec 14 -- Dallas, TX @ Trees
Dec 15 -- Houston, TX @ Warehouse Live Studio
Dec 16 -- Austin, TX @ The Mohawk
Dec 18 -- Denver, CO @ Gothic Theatre
Dec 19 -- Aspen, CO @ Belly Up Aspen

Published November 28th, 2017

Peter Hook talks new gigs & New Order

Haçienda heavyweights - Peter Hook, Graeme Park, and Mike Pickering - have announced a Haçienda Classiçal tour of the U.K. which will see the trio performing Madchester/Haçienda club classics backed by the Manchester Camerata Orchestra.

Hook was interviewed by NME about the classical gigs and told the mag that the setlists are still being worked out but loves the juxtaposition of "real instruments" and synthesizers:

"For me, I’m gonna be pushing for the ol’ Acid House for some nice aggression. I love the counter-point in the synthesisers and the orchestra in the same way that New Order did with ‘Power, Corruption and Lies’. We had a great competition between synthesisers and the real instruments. That’s what turns me on.”

The discussion turned to New Order, and Hooky says he's relieved that the legal battle with his ex-bandmates has been resolved:

"I’m happy to get my life back and I’m happy for my family. I haven’t got that hanging over me. I don’t think there will be a reunion soon, sadly – but you know, that’s life."

Hooky also revealed he still pays attention to New Order "it's like looking at your ex-girlfriend on Facebook" and said he's listened to their last album Music Complete.

"I enjoyed it, I have to say. It sounded like Electronic to me, you know. I think that’s my answer to it."

Read the full article over at NME.

Peter Hook returns to North America in 2018 to perform Joy Division and New Order albums Substance in full. The tour includes a Detroit area stop May 3rd at the Royal Oak Music Theatre.

Peter Hook - Substance tour

Apr 24 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer
Apr 27 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Steel
Apr 28 -- Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
Apr 30 -- Montreal, QC @ Theatre Fairmount
May 01 -- Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
May 03 -- Royal Oak, MI @ Royal Oak Music Theatre
May 04 -- Chicago, IL @ Metro
May 07 -- Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
May 08 -- Vancouver, BC @ Venue
May 10 -- Seattle, WA @ Neptune Theatre
May 11 -- Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
May 12 -- San Francisco, CA @ Warfield
May 14 -- Las Vegas, NV @ Brooklyn Bowl
May 15 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Metro Music Hall
May 17 -- Phoenix, AZ @ Van Buren
May 18 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Wiltern*
May 19 -- San Diego, CA @ House Of Blues
May 21 -- Sacramento, CA @ Ace Of Spades
May 22 -- Dallas, TX @ Granada
May 23 -- Austin, TX @ Mohawk
May 25 -- Carrboro, NC @ Cat's Cradle
May 26 -- Knoxville, TN @ The Mill & Mine
May 27 -- Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse
May 29 -- Nashville, TN @ Exit/In
May 30 -- San Antonio, TX @ Paper Tiger
May 31 -- Houston, TX @ Warehouse Live
Jun 02 -- West Palm Beach, FL @ Respectable Street
Jun 03 -- Orlando, FL @ Plaza Live
Jun 04 -- St. Petersburg, FL @ State Theatre

*Wiltern show Hook will perform Unknown Pleasures and Closer

Published November 28th, 2017

Liam Gallagher on 'Fallon' tonight + shares year end ranking with Noel

Liam Gallagher returns to late night TV tonight in support of his solo album As You Were. Don't miss Gallagher on The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon tonight (November 28th).

UPDATE (11/29): Gallagher performed "Come Back To Me" on Fallon last night. Check out the performance below or here.



While you're waiting for the action, check out Liam's new video for "Come Back To Me," which was directed by Shane Meadows, who among other projects directed Made Of Stone, the 2013 documentary about The Stone Roses.

FYI: Liam Gallagher's album As You Were has made a few 'Best of 2017' lists so far including NME, Q, and Rough Trade.

Rolling Stone ranked As You Were number 37 - right alongside Who Built The Moon? by Noel Gallagher. Yes, they ranked BOTH albums at #37, so they get to share the prize, such that it is.

Who Built The Moon? hasn't shown up on any other year end lists so far, however considering many of these lists were published/created prior to the release of Noel's record, it's hardly surprising.



Published November 28th, 2017

Noel Gallagher talks Oasis history and more in video interview

Noel Gallagher appeared on CBS Sunday Morning yesterday in promotion of his new album Who Built The Moon? The outstanding eight minute feature included a overview of Oasis with thoughtful yet probing questions from interviewer Anthony Mason.

Through part of the interview Noel was walking around outside with Mason - it was later revealed they were walking through Manchester. Noel pointed out some of his old hangouts including the legendary record store Sifters, (namedropped in "Shakermaker") and they went inside the old apartment where Noel wrote "Rock N Roll Star" and the bulk of Definitely Maybe.

The subject inevitably turned to the possibility of Oasis reforming and Noel blankly stated "If anyone doubts my resolve, I pity them."

He acknowledged that he could never have succeeded in Oasis without Liam:

"no chance. I wouldn't have gotten anywhere without him and he wouldn't have gotten anywhere without me. Simple as that."

As for if the relationship between Noel and Liam is beyond repair:

"For me it is, yeah. Now we got personal and he kind of brought my wife and kids into it very publicly. And I'm like, if you wanna go there, be prepared to take this shit to the grave. That sounds callous and cold, but that's who I am, I'm afraid."

Check out the excellent interview feature below:



Published November 27th, 2017

Morrissey vows "no more print interviews"

Morrissey has stopped watching the news and now, he's decided to stop doing print interviews. After the fallout from last week's interview with the German press, last night at his show in Chicago Morrissey told the sold out crowd he will no longer do print interviews. He then said "unless you see the words form in my mouth and then you see the words, or hear the words come out of my mouth...please, if you don't see that, I didn't say them."

Watch Moz deliver his comments in the video below via BeardedSteven.

Morrissey stopped doing live interviews in 2007 after his famous libel incident with New Musical Express. Morrissey sued NME for libel and eventually the two parties settled out of court. Part of the terms of the settlement included a public apology from NME. At that point Morrissey vowed to stop doing live interviews and would only consent to interviews if he was emailed the questions and he could write out his responses, however over the last few years Morrissey started doing select live interviews again. Those days are over once again.

My friend caught video of him talking about the recent interview. He said it would be the last print interview he’d ever do... #Morrissey #Chicago pic.twitter.com/6rwDnlngmg

— Steven Ⓜ️ (@BeardedSteven) November 26, 2017

Morrissey continues his tour in support of Low In High School. The next stop is at the Fillmore Detroit on Tuesday!

Morrissey - U.S. tour

Nov 28 -- Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore Detroit
Nov 30 -- Washington, DC @ The Anthem
Dec 02 -- New York, NY @ Theatre at Madison Square Garden
Dec 04 -- Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore
Dec 07 -- Boston, MA @ Orpheum Theatre
Dec 10 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Forum

Published November 26th, 2017

Classic Alternative - Episode #33: Apathy, Wrath, And The Destruction Of Devoir

Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #33: Apathy, Wrath, And The Destruction Of Devoir

Rock it old school with a new streaming episode of Time Warp. This week's show includes music from Gary Numan, XTC, Killing Joke, The Charlatans, Jane's Addiction, Mazzy Star, Sex Pistols, Echo and the Bunnymen, The House Of Love, Felt, and The Smiths.

Stream below or here and catch up with the archive of previous episodes here or here.


Music news stories from the past week:
Echo and the Bunnymen announce new LP
Noel Gallagher video interview
Historical recording studios in Manchester
Felt reissue series A Decade Of Music
Simple Minds announce LP Walk Between Worlds
The Cure unveil 40th anniversary calendar

Echo & The Bunnymen reinterpret classics on new orchestral LP

Back in April Echo & The Bunnymen's Will Sergeant revealed the band was "on the verge" of signing a new record deal which, if finalized, would likely see the release of a new album as well as an "orchestrated album."

Echo eventually went on to sign with BMG, and now they've announced details behind their brand new orchestral album. The Stars, The Oceans & The Moon will feature 15 tracks - orchestral reinterpretations of classic Echo songs along with a few brand new tracks. Core members Sergeant and Ian McCulloch worked along with producer Andy Wright on the album, which is set to arrive May 18th.

The track listing for The Stars, The Oceans & The Moon hasn't been announced, however pre-orders for the release opened today. Choose from a variety of physical formats - CD, double LP, double picture disc, limited edition test pressing vinyl, and cassette. All formats are available to pre-order now through the band's official store.

Echo also announced a tour of the UK. Dates are posted below:

Echo & The Bunnymen - UK tour

May 23 -- Edinburgh Usher Hall
May 25 -- Liverpool Philharmonic
May 26 -- Birmingham Symphony Hall
May 28 -- Manchester Bridgewater Hall
May 30 -- Gateshead Sage
Jun 01 -- London Royal Albert Hall

Published November 24th, 2017

Noel Gallagher Q & A session

Noel Gallagher's new album Who Built The Moon? arrives tomorrow. While you count down to the new album, Noel posted a Q & A session with interviewer Matt Morgan below. Among the highlights, Noel reveals he'd bring back David Bowie from the dead; sings the praises of Morrissey, Paul Weller, Stevie Wonder, and Iggy Pop; reveals the first autograph he signed in the U.S. was for Lars Ulrich; and when forced to choose between never having sex or never playing live again chooses...well, be sure to watch the rapid-fire Q & A to find out.

Check out the Chief in action below:



Noel Gallagher - North American tour

Feb 09 -- Detroit, MI @ Scottish Rite Cathedral Theatre/Masonic Temple
Feb 10 -- Columbus, OH @ Express Live!
Feb 12 -- Washington, DC @ The Anthem
Feb 13 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Merriam Theater, Kimmel Center
Feb 15 -- New York, NY @ Radio City Music Hall
Feb 17 -- Boston, MA @ Boston Opera House
Feb 18 -- Montreal, QC @ Place des Arts
Feb 20 -- Toronto, ON @ Sony Centre
Feb 23 -- Akron, OH @ Goodyear Theater
Feb 24 -- Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theatre
Feb 25 -- Indianapolis, IN @ Murat Theatre/Old National Centre
Feb 26 -- Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium
Feb 28 -- Atlanta, GA @ The Tabernacle
Mar 02 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Orpheum Theatre
Mar 03 -- Houston, TX @ House Of Blues
Mar 05 -- Austin, TX @ The Moody Theater
Mar 06 -- Dallas/Fort Worth @ Majestic Theatre
Mar 09 -- Las Vegas, NV @ The Chelsea/The Cosmopolitan
Mar 10 -- San Francisco @ Fox Theater
Mar 12 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Orpheum Theatre

Published November 23rd, 2017

Bliss out with new shoegaze/dreampop compilation from Saint Marie Records

Saint Marie Records is the preeminent record label giving exposure to incredible established and emerging shoegaze/dreampop bands. This week the label releases the latest installment in their annual blissed out compilation series. Static Waves 6 includes 22 tracks (15 of these are previously unreleased) from Bloody Knives, When The Sun Hits, Static Daydream, Miniatures, Amusement Parks On Fire, Spotlight Kid, and so many more. The compilation arrives on November 24th and is available to pre-order here.

Stream two previously unreleased gems - "Lose Control" from brilliant noise band Bloody Knives and "Heavenly" from the truly divine Static Daydream below. The full enchanting compilation is available to stream ahead of its release here.





Published November 21st, 2017

Dave Haslam talks Manchester recording studio history

Haçienda DJ/journalist Dave Haslam has written a piece for I Love Manchester about legendary recording studios in Manchester. Among the iconic studios featured:

Spirit, the 4 track studio where The Stone Roses recorded their first demo tape in 1984 (the space was also used by The Smiths for rehearsals); Decibel Studios inside Beehive Mill, site of the first recording from The Smiths; Indigo, where Buzzcocks recorded the debut EP Spiral Scratch; and Cargo which was utilized by Joy Division, A Certain Ratio, The Chameleons and more.

Read Haslam's fascinating piece on Manchester recording history here.





Published November 21st, 2017

Felt announce long awaited reissues: 'A Decade In Music'

Exciting news for fans of the influential UK band Felt: Cherry Red Records has finally announced the release of A Decade In Music - a series of long awaited Felt reissues.

Felt's vinyl catalog, largely out of print for years, commands BIG bucks on the resale market (even CD copies can be a pretty major financial outlay). But Cherry Red has come to the rescue and next year Felt's first five albums will be reissued on vinyl and as CD boxsets. All five definitive editions have been remastered by Lawrence and will be released February 23rd. The albums are: 

Crumbling The Antiseptic Beauty
The Splendour Of Fear
The Strange Idols Pattern And Other Short Stories
Ignite The Seven Cannons
The Seventeenth Century

All five albums will be reissued individually on limited edition vinyl and as CD boxsets. The vinyl editions feature deluxe gatefold sleeve; the CD boxsets for each reissue are packaged in a 7" box with the original album in special gatefold sleeve, 7" vinyl singles, reproduction gig flyers, posters, and buttons, plus the initial run of the boxsets are stickered and hand-signed by Lawrence. All are available to pre-order now through Cherry Red.

Meanwhile Lawrence announced a brand new Go-Kart Mozart album titled Mozart's Mini-Mart, a 17 track record which also arrives on February 23rd. Lawrence debuted the first track "When You're Depressed" which is available to stream below. Pre-order now from Cherry Red.



Published November 20th, 2017

Simple Minds announce new LP 'Walk Between Worlds' + Euro tour

Simple Minds announced details for a new album today. Walk Between Worlds is the follow up to 2014's Big Music and will be released on February 2nd.

The eight song album has two distinct sides: side one includes guitar and "new wave dance grooves of the post-punk era" while the flip side include lush, layered, cinematic orchestrations. The album is available to pre-order on CD, standard vinyl, picture disc, or choose from a variety of bundles. Check out all the options over at the band's store.

Simple Minds also announced a series of European shows in support of Walk Between Worlds. These unique three-part shows will include a performance of the album, a live on-stage interview and a classic set of hits and fan favorites. So far no North American shows have been announced.

Simple Minds - European tour

Feb 13 -- Glasgow @ Barrowland Ballroom
Feb 14 -- Manchester @ Albert Hall
Feb 15 -- London @ Roundhouse
Feb 17 -- Paris @ Salle Pleyel
Feb 18 -- Brussels @ Ancienne Belgique
Feb 19 -- Amsterdam @ Paradiso
Feb 20 -- Copenhagen @ Vega

Published November 20th, 2017

The Cure unveil 40th anniversary calendar

The Cure's 40th anniversary takes place in 2018. To mark this important milestone the legendary band has announced the release of a 40th anniversary 2018 commemorative calendar.

Just think of it - a 2018 calendar filled with glorious Cure-filled memories (or at the very least, 12 awesome pictures). The calendar will ship on or around December 1st and is available to pre-order now through The Cure's official store.

Who knows what else Robert Smith has up his sleeve for the 40th anniversary! Smith has a lonnnnnnnnnnnnnng history of talking about projects that never seem to get completed/released including a DVD series, the limited edition collections 4:26 Dream and 4:14 Scream (piggybacking off the 33 song project Smith began in 2007), new Reflection/trilogy shows, etc. But if ever there was a time to unleash an exciting new release/reissue, the Cure's 40th anniversary would be it.

Stay tuned!

Published November 20th, 2017

R.I.P. Inspiral Carpets drummer Craig Gill

Inspiral Carpets drummer Craig Gill died one year ago today. Gill took his own life after suffering from anxiety and stress secondary to tinnitus. Ex-bandmate Stephen Holt released a song with his side-project The Rainkings last month in memory of Gill and donated proceeds from the single to the British Tinnitus Association.

Take a moment to remember gill and rock out to "Good Times" below. The digital single is available to purchase here.

Stephen Holt was recently made an ambassador of the BTA's Plug'em campaign which seeks to spread the word about tinnitus and encourage music fans and concert attendees to use earplugs to help prevent tinnitus. Find out more about the campaign here.

Gone but will never be forgotten. Love you Craig Gill. Rest peacefully.

A photo posted by Graham Lambert (@inspiralgraham) on Nov 22, 2016 at 3:43am PST

Published November 20th, 2017

Classic Alternative - Episode #32: Ill Wind

Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #32: Ill Wind

Rock it old school with a new streaming episode of Time Warp. This week's show includes music from The Replacements, The Cure, Nine Inch Nails, The Wedding Present, Social Distortion, The Boo Radleys, Public Image Ltd, Ultravox, The Smiths, and more.

Stream below or here and catch up with the archive of previous episodes here or here.


Music news stories from the past week:

R.E.M. mark 25th anniversary of 40 Watt show with live event
Video: John Cale pays tribute to The Velvet Underground & Nico
Morrissey triumphant return to stage in Arizona
Throbbing Gristle celebrate 40th anniversary & demonstrate modular synth
Noel Gallagher talks new LP, scissors, and Johnny Marr
David Bowie celebrated at 2 day Sonos celebration
Björk unveils "Blissed Out" video
Neil Young launching massive online archive
Morrissey interview
Detroit Concert Calendar

R.E.M. marks 25th anniversary with Facebook Live event

R.E.M. announced they're holding a special event today - Sunday, November 19th - to mark the 25th anniversary of the band's landmark show at the 40 Watt Club in Athens. The concert was included as bonus material on the newly released 25th anniversary edition of Automatic For The People, however R.E.M. promises they'll unleash a "previously unreleased surprise" as part of their Facebook Live event today.

Join R.E.M. on Facebook today at 3pm ET to check out the action.

The 25th anniversary edition of Automatic For The People was released last week and is available through R.E.M.'s store.

Published November 19th 2017

Video: John Cale pays tribute to The Velvet Underground & Nico in NYC

John Cale performed shows in New York this week celebrating the 50th anniversary of The Velvet Underground & Nico as well as his 75th birthday (Cale turned 75 in March). Several guest vocalists joined Cale to help out on vocals including Tunde Adebimpe (of TV on the Radio), Kurt Vile, Caroline Polachek (Chairlift), MGMT, Animal Collective, and Sky Ferreira. Check out some video from the anniversary shows below:











Published November 19th, 2017

Detroit Concert Calendar

An updated list of upcoming shows coming through the Detroit area

NOVEMBER

Nov 21 -- A Perfect Circle @ Fox Theatre
Nov 22 -- King Crimson @ Michigan Theater
Nov 26 -- Squeeze @ Royal Oak Music Theatre
Nov 28 -- Morrissey @ Fillmore Detroit 
Nov 28 -- Baio @ Pike Room
Nov 28 -- Grizzly Bear @ Royal Oak Music Theatre
Nov 29 -- Richard Lloyd (Television) @ El Club
Nov 30 -- Gary Numan @ St. Andrew's Hall

DECEMBER

Dec 01 -- Chad VanGaalen @ El Club
Dec 03 -- Mogwai @ Majestic Theatre
Dec 23 -- Crossed Wire @ The Loving Touch
Dec 28 -- Pretty Lights Live @ Fillmore Detroit
Dec 29 -- Pretty Lights Live @ Fillmore Detroit
Dec 31 -- Sky Ferreira & Iceage @ El Club

JANUARY

Jan 15 -- The Killers @ Masonic
Jan 17 -- Squirrel Nut Zippers @ El Club
Jan 17 -- Lana Del Rey @ Little Caesars Arena
Jan 30 -- Sleigh Bells @ El Club

FEBRUARY

Feb 07 -- Black Rebel Motorcycle Club @ Majestic Theatre
Feb 09 -- Noel Gallagher @ Scottish Rite Cathedral/Masonic Temple
Feb 10 -- They Might Be Giants @ Saint Andrew's Hall
Feb 19 -- Celebrating David Bowie @ Royal Oak Music Theatre

MARCH

Mar 04 -- Tune-Yards @ Majestic Theatre
Mar 11 -- Howard Jones (solo) @ Saint Andrew's Hall
Mar 14 -- Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark @ Majestic
Mar 18 -- Clan Of Xymox @ El Club

APRIL

Apr 11 -- Cigarettes After Sex @ Majestic Theatre
Apr 21 -- John Waters/L7 @ El Club

MAY

May 03 -- Peter Hook @ Royal Oak Music Theatre
May 14 -- The Fratellis @ Majestic Theatre

JULY

Jul 13 -- Pixies w/Weezer @ DTE

Video: Morrissey returns to the stage in Arizona

Morrissey's tour resumed last night in Tempe, Arizona and from the looks of things it was fantastic! He ripped through an excellent selection of songs old and new, plus resurrected his cover of the 1970 Lynn Anderson hit "Rose Garden" for his final song before leaving the stage. He ended up returning for the encore, which concluded with a version of "Shoplifters Of The World Unite" with substituted lyrics ("Trump shifters" instead of "shoplifters") and his requisite final-song-shirt-removal.

Check out video highlights from the show below:









Morrissey - U.S. tour

Nov 18 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Kingsbury Hall
Nov 20 -- Denver, CO @ Paramount Theatre
Nov 22 -- St. Louis, MO @ Peabody Opera House
Nov 25 -- Chicago, IL @ Riviera Theater
Nov 28 -- Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore Detroit
Nov 30 -- Washington, DC @ The Anthem
Dec 02 -- New York, NY @ Theatre at Madison Square Garden
Dec 04 -- Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore
Dec 07 -- Boston, MA @ Orpheum Theatre
Dec 10 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Forum

Published November 17th, 2017

Cigarettes After Sex announce North American tour

Cigarettes After Sex released their dreamy and spellbinding self-titled album earlier this year. Led by Greg Gonzalez, Cigarettes After Sex have been creating haunting and seductive music since 2012. Though unsigned until recently, they enjoy a huge grassroots following because they are simply amazing. Their self-titled album is one of 2017's best albums and is enchanting, romantic, and highly addictive.

And now for the exciting news: Cigarettes After Sex announced a North American tour which brings them to the Majestic Theatre in Detroit on April 11th. Tickets are on sale now and are available here. Check out the tour itinerary below and stream the full album from Cigarettes After Sex on Spotify.





Cigarettes After Sex - North American tour

Mar 27 -- Nashville, TN @ The Basement East
Mar 28 -- Atlanta, GA @ Terminal West
Mar 29 -- Charlotte, NC @ The Underground
Mar 31 -- Charlottesville, VA @ The Jefferson Theatre
Apr 02 -- Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
Apr 03 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer
Apr 05 -- Portland, ME @ Port City Music Hall
Apr 06 -- Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
Apr 07 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Steel
Apr 09 -- Toronto, ON @ The Danforth Music Hall
Apr 11 -- Detroit, MI @ The Majestic Theatre
Apr 14 -- Madison, WI @ Majestic Theatre
Apr 17 -- Omaha, NE @ The Waiting Room Lounge
Apr 18 -- Lawrence, KS @ The Bottleneck
Apr 20 -- Boulder, CO @ Fox Theatre
Apr 21 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge
Apr 23 -- Seattle, WA @ Neptune Theatre
Apr 24 -- Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
Apr 26 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Fillmore
Apr 27 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Theatre at Ace Hotel
Apr 30 -- San Diego, CA @ The Observatory North Park
May 01 -- Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren

Published November 17th, 2017

Stream: Throbbing Gristle 40th anniversary event

Rough Trade held a live event in London commemorating the 40th anniversary of Throbbing Gristle's The Second Annual Report. The special engagement included a Q & A with Chris Carter and Cosey Fanni Tutti hosted by Mute Records founder Daniel Miller. The event begins with 12 minutes of a live modular set by Carter - using the newly released TG One, the special edition Tiptop Audio ONE module that was released this month in honor of Throbbing Gristle.

Stream the special below:



Mute launched a reissue campaign for Throbbing Gristle's back catalog - the first three The Second Annual Report, 20 Jazz Funk Greats, and The Taste Of TG: A Beginner's Guide To The Music Of Throbbing Gristle were reissued this month and are available here.

The next set of reissues - D.o.A. The Third And Final Report, Heathen Earth, and Part Two: Endless Not, are set to arrive on January 26th; with Mission Of Dead Souls, Greatest Hits, Journey Through A Body, and In The Shadow Of The Sun completing the reissue campaign on April 27th.

Published November 16th, 2017

Noel Gallagher reveals "I'd love to start a band with Johnny Marr" talks LP, songwriting, scissors + more

Noel Gallagher took part in a video chat for the webzine Noisey yesterday. Gallagher was entertaining as always although most of the topics presented to him were predictable: he discussed his new album, songwriting, social media, and compared/contrasted making music in the 90s with making music today. Interviewer Eric Sundermann also attempted to steer the conversation towards politics several times, but Noel wasn't really having it.

Some highlights:

Noel was asked about co-writing songs with others and he said that if he's in a situation where he wants to co-write with others, he may as well just get together with that person and start a band. He quipped: "I'd love to co-write with Johnny Marr, but then again I'd love to start a band with Johnny Marr, you know what I mean? Or Weller...or Weller and Johnny Marr." This is where Sundermann totally dropped the ball because he didn't pursue that any further!

Noel talked a bit about the caped scissors player featured on his song "It's A Beautiful World" and revealed her name is Charlotte Marionneau. He called her "an absolute fucking hero" and revealed she also sings and plays scissors in her own band Le Volume Courbe.





Noel of course was asked about Liam - he said Liam is "obsessed" with taunting him on social media and "it's clearly intoxicating for him" but was thankful for the extra promotion for the album.

Check out the full interview with Noel Gallagher below:



Published November 16th, 2017

David Bowie celebrated at Somos streaming event in London

Sonos launched a concept store in London today and as part of the grand opening the sound system retailer will be celebrating the life of David Bowie. Sonos will host several events this week in their state-of-the-art listening room including visual displays with rarely seen Bowie images, listening events hosted by artists inspired by Bowie such as Nick Rhodes, Graham Coxon, and Goldie.

Sonos also partnered with London underground online radio station NTS to stage a two-day radio tribute to David Bowie. The radio tribute will include two days of Bowie-centric programming hosted by Iggy Pop, Thurston Moore, Michael Rother (of legendary krautrock band Neu!), members of Franz Ferdinand, and more.

The radio programming will be available to stream on the NTS website starting Saturday, November 18th at 7am ET (12:00 BST) and runs through Sunday, November 19th at 1pm ET. View programming notes for the event here.

Published November 16th, 2017

Björk premieres "Blissed Out" from 'Utopia'

Björk premiered the official video for "Blissed Out," which appears on her wondrous upcoming album Utopia. Check out the video starring Björk below.

Utopia arrives on November 24th and is available to pre-order here.



Published November 16th, 2017

Neil Young launches massive online archive

Neil Young returns with his new studio album The Visitor on December 1st. In celebration of the album, Young has also announced plans to unveil his massive online archive on December 1st. The archive will include every album and every song he's ever produced, a timeline of each recording session/recording performance, plus cover art, liner notes, credits, etc. According to Young, the archive will be available to stream "in the highest quality your machine will allow" and will be free, at least initially.

The archive is available here starting December 1st.

Check out Young's Facebook comments about the archive below, and more in-depth details on the archive here.

"December 1st will be a big day for me. The Visitor will be coming to your town. I will be going to my town. You will be able to hear me and see me. My archive will open on that same day, a place you can visit and experience every song I have ever released in the highest quality your machine will allow. It’s the way it’s supposed to be. In the beginning, everything is free."

Published November 15th, 2017

Morrissey talks 'Low In High School' + new record label

Morrissey returns with his 11th studio album Low In High School this Friday. In promotion of the album, the music icon consented to answering a few questions from Billboard. In the interview he revealed the identity of the album cover star - Max Lopez (son of Morrissey bassist Mando Lopez), discussed police brutality calling it "the worst form of street crime," and says his writing has become more political lately because "the people have become sick of the establishment, and I'm a part of the world."

Moz also briefly discussed his new record label Etienne:

"Whatever happens in the world, music is for eternity. It's a great pleasure and very healthy to produce and create, and I'd love to expand Etienne and sign up music that counts. Not marketing nonsense, but artists whose lives depend upon singing and playing music. They count in the long run."

Read the full interview with Morrissey over at Billboard.

Morrissey's tour resumes tomorrow night in Phoenix and is scheduled to hit the Fillmore Detroit on November 28th.

Morrissey - U.S. tour

Nov 16 -- Phoenix, AZ @ Marquee
Nov 18 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Kingsbury Hall
Nov 20 -- Denver, CO @ Paramount Theatre
Nov 22 -- St. Louis, MO @ Peabody Opera House
Nov 25 -- Chicago, IL @ Riviera Theater
Nov 28 -- Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore Detroit
Nov 30 -- Washington, DC @ The Anthem
Dec 02 -- New York, NY @ Theatre at Madison Square Garden
Dec 04 -- Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore
Dec 07 -- Boston, MA @ Orpheum Theatre
Dec 10 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Forum

Posted November 15th, 2017

Noel Gallagher live video chat today

Noel Gallagher is hosting a live Facebook event later today. Gallagher will answer fan questions as well as other questions from interviewer Eric Sundermann (music editor of Noisey). Fans are encouraged to post questions for Gallagher on Facebook.

The chat takes place here today (November 15th) at 3:30 pm ET.

UPDATE: Here's the archive of the interview:



Gallagher releases his new album Who Built The Moon? on November 24th and hits the road for a North American tour in February.

Noel Gallagher - North American tour

Feb 09 -- Detroit, MI @ Scottish Rite Cathedral Theatre/Masonic Temple
Feb 10 -- Columbus, OH @ Express Live!
Feb 12 -- Washington, DC @ The Anthem
Feb 13 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Merriam Theater, Kimmel Center
Feb 15 -- New York, NY @ Radio City Music Hall
Feb 17 -- Boston, MA @ Boston Opera House
Feb 18 -- Montreal, QC @ Place des Arts
Feb 20 -- Toronto, ON @ Sony Centre
Feb 23 -- Akron, OH @ Goodyear Theater
Feb 24 -- Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theatre
Feb 25 -- Indianapolis, IN @ Murat Theatre/Old National Centre
Feb 26 -- Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium
Feb 28 -- Atlanta, GA @ The Tabernacle
Mar 02 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Orpheum Theatre
Mar 03 -- Houston, TX @ House Of Blues
Mar 05 -- Austin, TX @ The Moody Theater
Mar 06 -- Dallas/Fort Worth @ Majestic Theatre
Mar 09 -- Las Vegas, NV @ The Chelsea/The Cosmopolitan
Mar 10 -- San Francisco @ Fox Theater
Mar 12 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Orpheum Theatre

Published November 15th, 2017

Classic Alternative - Episode 31: Poverty Of Thought

Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #31: Poverty Of Thought

Rock it old school with a new streaming episode of Time Warp. This week's show includes music from Suede, Iggy Pop, Depeche Mode, R.E.M., The Jam, The Cult, Portishead, Lush, The Cure, Cabaret Voltaire, and The Smiths.

Stream below or here and catch up with the archive of previous episodes here or here.


Music news stories from the past week:

Stream: Hüsker Dü five part documentary
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark announce companion LP
Noel Gallagher talks scissors, rock & roll, and Liam
Video: Morrissey honored in Los Angeles
R.I.P. Chuck Mosley, ex-Faith No More vocalist
Clan Of Xymox premiere "Vixen In Disguise"
R.E.M. premiere extended NSFW "Nightswimming" video
Liam Gallagher secret show with potato peeling fan
Morrissey announces limited edition 7" single
Johnny Marr + Noel Gallagher chill at Man City game
Morrissey axes show at cold venue

Stream a Hüsker Dü documentary featuring Grant Hart's final interview

On Friday Hüsker Dü released a three disc boxset titled Savage Young Dü, which collects their early output from from 1979 - 1982.

In celebration of the release Minneapolis public radio station KCMP presented a five part documentary on the band recounting Hüsker Dü's formative years and includes discussions with all three founding members, Bob Mould, Greg Norton and Grant Hart, as well as other artists/musicians that were inspired by the legendary band. The series begins with a tribute to Hart, who sadly passed away in September (portions of the interview featured in the documentary were said to be Hart's final interview). Do You Remember? A Podcast About Hüsker Dü begins is available to stream here.

Savage Young Dü was released on 3CDs or 4LPs and features remastered editions of Hüsker Dü's studio output from 1979 - 1982 and includes various demos, live versions, and alternate takes. The massive set includes 69 songs in all; 47 of these are previously unreleased. Order a copy of Savage Young Dü here.

Published November 12th, 2017

OMD announce The Punishment Of Luxury companion LP

Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark announced a companion disc to their critically acclaimed new album The Punishment Of Luxury. The album The Punishment of Luxury: B Sides & Bonus Material is exactly what it sounds like - b-sides, single mixes, extended mixes, and remixes of original material found on The Punishment Of Luxury. The collection will be released on CD and vinyl and arrives on December 15th. Pre-order here.

OMD hit the road in support of their new album in North America next year and will stop by the Majestic Theatre on March 14th. Dates for the tour are posted below:

OMD - North American tour

Mar 06 -- Washington D.C. @ Black Cat
Mar 07 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Theatre Of The Living Arts
Mar 09 -- Boston, MA @ House Of Blues
Mar 10 -- New York, NY @ Terminal 5
Mar 12 -- Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
Mar 13 -- Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
Mar 14 -- Detroit, MI @ Majestic Theatre
Mar 16 -- Chicago, IL @ Vic Theatre
Mar 17 -- Milwaukee, WI @ Northern Lights Theatre
Mar 18 -- Minneapolis, MN @ First Ave
Mar 20 -- Denver, CO @ Ogden Theatre
Mar 21 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot
Mar 23 -- Vancouver, B.C. @ Commodore Ballroom
Mar 24 -- Seattle, WA @ Showbox/The Market
Mar 25 -- Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
Mar 27 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Regency Ballroom
Mar 29 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern Theatre
Mar 30 -- Anaheim, CA @ The House Of Blues
Mar 31 -- San Diego, CA @ The House of Blues
Apr 02 -- Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren
Apr 05 -- Dallas, TX @ House Of Blues
Apr 06 -- Austin, TX @ Emos
Apr 07 -- Houston, TX @ House OF Blues
Apr 09 -- New Orleans, LA @ Civic Theatre
Apr 10 -- Atlanta, GA @ Center Stage
Apr 12 -- Orlando, FL @ The Beacham
Apr 13 -- St. Petersburg, FL @ The State Theatre
Apr 14 -- Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Revolution Live

Published November 12th, 2017