A Place To Bury Strangers announce 'Pinned' + North American tour

A Place To Bury Strangers announced details behind their new studio album today. The band's fifth full length studio album is titled Pinned, includes 12 songs, and is set for release on April 13th. Today APTBS issued the album's first single "Never Coming Back" which has a "big concept" according to founding guitarist/singer Oliver Ackermann:

"You make these decisions in your life…you’re contemplating whether or not this will be the end. You think of your mortality, those moments you could die and what that means. You’re thinking about that edge of the end, deciding whether or not it’s over. When you’re close to that edge, you could teeter over."

Along with the album news A Place To Bury Strangers premiered the video for "Never Coming Back" and announced dates for their North American spring tour. Check out the video and tour dates below and pre-order Pinned here.



A Place To Bury Strangers - North American tour

May 24 -- Washington, DC @ DC9 Nightclub
May 25 -- Baltimore, MD @ Metro Gallery
May 26 -- Raleigh, NC @ Kings
May 27 -- West Asheville, NC @ The Mothlight
May 28 -- Atlanta, GA @ The Earl
May 30 -- New Orleans, LA @ Gasa Gasa
May 31 -- Houston, TX @ The Secret Group
Jun 01 -- Austin, TX @ Barracuda Austin
Jun 02 -- Dallas, TX @ Club Dada
Jun 03 -- San Antonio, TX @ Paper Tiger
Jun 05 -- Santa Fe, NM @ Meow Wolf
Jun 06 -- Phoenix, AZ @ Valley Bar
Jun 07 -- San Diego, CA @ Casbah San Diego
Jun 09 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Regent
Jun 10 -- San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall
Jun 12 -- Portland, OR @ Mississippi Studios
Jun 13 -- Vancouver, BC @ Fox Cabaret
Jun 14 -- Seattle, WA @ Crocodile

Published January 31st, 2018

Suede announce expanded 25th anniversary edition of 'Suede'

Suede (aka The London Suede) mark the 25th anniversary of their self-titled album with an expanded edition of the release. The 25th anniversary Silver Edition of Suede will be released as a 4CD/1 DVD set (five discs total) including b-sides, demos, live material (including the band's first BBC radio session), television performances, and a 36 page book with lyrics, photos, ephemera, and new notes by Brett Anderson.

The 25th Anniversary Silver Edition of Suede will be released on March 30th. View the pre-order options here and check out the trailer and tracklisting below:



Disc 1 - Original Album

01. So Young
02. Animal Nitrate
03. She's Not Dead
04. Moving
05. Pantomime Horse
06. The Drowners
07. Sleeping Pills
08. Breakdown
09. Metal Mickey
10. Animal Lover
11. The Next Life

Disc 2 - B-Sides

01. My Insatiable One
02. To The Birds
03. He's Dead
04. Where The Pigs Don't Fly
05. Painted People
06. The Big Time
07. High Rising
08. Dolly
09. My Insatiable One (piano version)
10. Brass In Pocket

Disc 3 - Demos, monitor mixes, BBC Session

01. The Drowners (demo, 1991)
02. He's Dead (demo, 1991)
03. Moving (demo, 1991)
04. To The Birds (demo, 1991)
05. Metal Mickey (demo, 1992)
06. Pantomime Horse (demo, 1992)
07. High Wire (My Insatiable One), (demo 1992)
08. The Drowners (demo, 1992)
09. To The Birds (demo, 1992)
10. Sleeping Pills (demo, 1992)
11. The Drowners (monitor mix, 1992)
12. To The Birds (monitor mix, 1992)
13. My Insatiable One (monitor mix, 1992)
14. Metal Mickey (BBC Radio 1, 4/1992)
15. The Drowners (BBC Radio 1, 4/1992)
16. Sleeping Pills (BBC Radio 1, 4/1992)
17. Moving (BBC Radio 1, 4/1992)
18. Diesel (instrumental studio outtake)
19. Stars On 45 (rehearsal room recording)
20. Sleeping Pills (strings)

Disc 4 (Live at The Leadmill, February 1993)

01. Metal Mickey
02. Moving
03. My Insatiable One
04. Animal Nitrate
05. Pantomime Horse
06. The Drowners
07. Painted People
08. So Young
09. Animal Lover
10. Sleeping Pills
11. To The Birds

Disc 5 - DVD

01. The Drowners (The Late Show 5/7/92)
02. Metal Mickey (Top Of The Pops 9/24/92)
03. So Young (Top Of The Pops 5/27/93)
04. So Young (Later With Jools Holland 6/4/93)
05. The Next Life/Brett Anderson interview (Later With Jools Holland, 6/4/93)
06. My Insatiable One (Later With Jools Holland, 6/4/93)
07. Brett Anderson + Bernard Butler discuss Suede track by track with Pete Paphides

Published January 31st, 2018

The Velvet Underground's 'White Light/White Heat' turns 50

The Velvet Underground's second album White Light/White Heat was released 50 years ago today. Much like VU's debut album, the album was musically experimental with provocative themes and lyrics. And like the debut album, White Light/White Heat was commercially ignored yet managed to be massively influential and was a key player in laying the groundwork for alternative music.

Read an excellent feature on the Velvet Underground masterpiece here.



Published January 30th, 2018

Felt: rare concert footage from 1985

Rare concert footage from the vastly underrated and highly influential UK band Felt has been unearthed. The six song set was captured live in 1985 and aired on the Spanish television series Estoc de Pop. Check it out below:

Felt's first five albums will be reissued on vinyl and as CD boxsets on February 23rd. Find out more about the reissues here and pre-order here.



1. Roman Litter
2. Ballad Of The Band
3. The Stagnant Pool
4. Cathedral
5. Sunlight Bathed The Golden Glow
6. Whirlpool Vision Of Shame

Published January 29th, 2018

Spiritualized set to dazzle Primavera Sound

Pretty exciting news for Spiritualized fans in Barcelona. Primavera Sound announced the lineup for their annual festival and the stunning highlight of the festival is Spiritualized will be performing. Not only that, but they'll be bringing an orchestra and choir with them! Primavera Sound takes place May 28th through June 3rd at the Parc del Fòrum in Barcelona, Spain. Check out the full lineup poster below some vintage live footage.

Published January 29th, 2018

Classic Alternative: Episode #40: Lordy, lordy...

Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #40: Lordy Lordy

Rock it old school with a new streaming episode of Time Warp.

This week's show includes music from 808 State, Sinead O'Connor, Elastica, Alphaville, The La's, Front Line Assembly, Depeche Mode, The Stranglers, Pixies, The Smiths, The Damned, and a tribute to Mark E. Smith of The Fall.

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

PROGRAMMING NOTE: ****As January 30th, listeners in the U.S. were unable to stream the original version of the program due to U.S. streaming laws. Therefore, Episode #40 has been edited (content removed) in order to comply with the rules. Apologies to anyone in the U.S. that had trouble streaming the original version of the program. I also left the original version up for anyone that cares to stream outside of the U.S. ****




Music news stories from the week

Peter Murphy's residency hits new snag; some shows rescheduled
Erasure announces orchestral album World Beyond
The The's Dusk turns 25 years old
40th anniversary of Joy Division's live debut
R.I.P. Mark E. Smith of The Fall
Ian Brown of The Stone Roses banned from driving
Evil Presidentes presents: BowieMixOne
The Damned premiere "Standing On The Edge Of Tomorrow
Smashing Pumpkins reunion a go, but no D'Arcy
The Brian Jonestown Massacre tour U.S. this spring; play Detroit
R.I.P. Jeremy Inkel, Front Line Assembly, Left Spine Down
Classically Smiths: I Know It's Over
Peter Murphy clarifies "bugger off" comments he made about David Bowie
Classically Smiths drama continues: Mike Joyce is out
Classically Smiths stunner: Andy Rourke bows out
Official: Members of The Smiths reunite for Classically Smiths

Peter Murphy's residency temporarily delayed due to visa issues

Peter Murphy's residency at The Chapel in San Francisco has hit another snag. The previously postponed two week engagement was scheduled to kick off January 26th however due to visa issues, Murphy was unable to enter the U.S. and still remains in Turkey. He is optimistic the situation will be resolved shortly and has shuffled around a couple of residency dates.

Read Murphy's full statement on the situation here and view the updated residency schedule here:

After an unforeseen and unanticipated delay, Peter is nearing the top of the visa application list at the US Consulate. Due to a brief diplomatic spat last year between the US and Turkey resulting in a temporary mutual ban on visa issuances to each country, a backlog of Turkish applicants has seen Peter’s own caught up in the pile. Despite the best efforts of the entire team working on these shows, as of today, Saturday’s Love Hysteria show is being moved to a later slot within the residency dates.

So Peter is waiting to get his visa approval in Istanbul and to fly as soon as his visa is in hand, and his full band and crew are all in San Francisco. They are all ready and primed to start the residency, and will probably play the first show at triple speed due to letting out the tension and excitement to finally be playing these shows for all of you. Once Peter Murphy is in the building twill be announced. He’ll most likely fly, and after 18 hrs in the air, land running and on stage that night.

Peter Murphy - The Chapel residency

Jan 28 -- Love Hysteria
Jan 30 -- Deep + selections from Love Hysteria
Jan 31 -- Deep
Feb 01 -- Should The World Fail To Fall Apart
Feb 02 -- Deep
Feb 03 -- Deep
Feb 04 -- Holy Smoke
Feb 06 -- Love Hysteria
Feb 07 -- Cascade
Feb 08 -- Love Hysteria (new/rescheduled date)
Feb 09 -- Dust
Feb 10 -- Ninth
Feb 11 -- Stripped
Feb 14 -- Mr. Moonlight (Bauhaus set w/David J)
Feb 15 -- Mr. Moonlight (Bauhaus set w/David J)
Feb 16 -- Mr. Moonlight (Bauhaus set w/David J)

Published January 28th, 2018

Erasure announce orchestral 'World Beyond' LP + North American tour

Erasure announced they teamed up with Echo Collective to create a companion record to 2017's World Be Gone. The album, World Beyond, features classical arrangements of the World Be Gone songs performed on violin, harp, cello, double-bass, piano, glockenspiel and vibraphone. Pre-order World Beyond from the official Erasure store or Pledge Music.

Erasure will be hitting the road in support of both releases in North America this summer. The tour bypasses Detroit, however there is a Grand Rapids show at 20 Monroe Live on July 25th. Check out the full itinerary below.

Erasure - North American tour

Jul 06 -- Miami Beach, FL @ Fillmore
Jul 07 -- St. Petersburg, FL @ Mahaffey Theater
Jul 08 -- Orlando, FL @ Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center
Jul 10 -- Atlanta, GA @ Tabernacle
Jul 14 -- New York, NY @ Beacon Theater
Jul 15 -- New York, NY @ Beacon Theater
Jul 17 -- Boston, MA @ House Of Blues
Jul 18 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Merriam Theater
Jul 20 -- Washington, DC @ Warner Theater
Jul 22 -- Pittsburgh, PA @ Byham Theater
Jul 24 -- Toronto, ON @ Queen Elizabeth Theater
Jul 25 -- Grand Rapids, MI @ 20 Monroe Live
Jul 27 -- Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theatre
Jul 29 -- Minneapolis, MN @ State Theatre
Jul 31 -- Indianapolis, IN @ Murat
Aug 01 -- Kansas City, MO @ Uptown Theater
Aug 03 -- Dallas, TX @ Toyota Music Factory
Aug 04 -- Houston, TX @ Smart Financial Centre
Aug 05 -- San Antonio, TX @ Tobin Center For The Performing Arts
Aug 07 -- Austin, TX @ Austin City Limits Live
Aug 10 -- Denver, CO @ Opera House
Aug 12 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Kingsbury Hall
Aug 14 -- Seattle, WA @ Moore Theatre
Aug 15 -- Vancouver, BC @ Orpheum Theatre
Aug 19 -- San Francisco, CA @ Masonic Auditorium
Aug 21 -- Santa Barbara, CA @ Arlington Theatre
Aug 22 -- San Diego, CA @ Symphony Hall
Aug 25 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Wiltern Theater
Aug 26 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Wiltern Theater

Published January 28th, 2018

The The's 'Dusk' turns 25 years old

The The's extraordinary album Dusk was released on this day in 1993.

The critically acclaimed album is considered one of the influential band's best, with notable songs "Love Is Stronger Than Death" (written as a tribute after the death of Matt Johnson's brother Eugene), "Dogs Of Lust," "Lonely Planet," and so many more. This is the second and final The The album to include Johnny Marr; Marr plays guitar and harmonica, as well as some bass and backing vocals.

The record may be 25 years old, but it's still thematically and musically vital and relevant. Envelope yourself in the brilliant, melancholic yet uplifting world of Matt Johnson.









Published January 25th, 2018

40th anniversary of Joy Division's live debut

Today marks the 40th anniversary of Joy Division's first live show which took place at Pips in Manchester as part of New Wave Night. Up until that point the band was named Warsaw, and they had made their live debut as Warsaw in 1977. But it wasn't until January 25th that they played their first gig as Joy Division. Though it was the first official Joy Division show, fans attending didn't realize it - the gig was billed as a Warsaw show because the band decided to change their name to Joy Division that very night. 

Joy Division performed a 9 song set on January 25th, 1978. View the setlist below.

1. Exercise One
2. Leaders Of Men
3. Warsaw
4. Failures
5. Reaction
6. Inside The Line
7. Ice Age
8. Day Of The Lords
9. Novelty

Published January 25th, 2018

R.I.P. Mark E. Smith of The Fall

The legendary Mark E. Smith, leader of one of the most important and influential bands of all time has died at the age of 60. According to Smith's manager Pam Van Damned, the legend passed away this morning at home. She also reveals that "a more detailed statement will follow in the next few days."

The news is so very upsetting and heartbreaking, but sadly it wasn't unexpected. Smith was in poor health over the last year and had canceled last year's U.S. tour and several shows in the U.K. because he was too sick to perform. In November a few fans who showed up to the Fall's canceled show in Bristol had reportedly been told by the Fall's inner circle that everyone was deeply concerned Smith's health was rapidly deteriorating. Smith remained optimistic and told fans he would reschedule shows and release more music soon. Alas, it was not to be.

How do you even begin to say goodbye to a legend? Words fail at this point. Smith was undeniably a uniquely talented and brilliant songsmith who brought a raucous energy and wit to the stage. He was an unusual rockstar that was so very un-rockstar-like. Truly a one-of-a-kind artist. There will never be another like MES.

R.I.P.

Jello Biafra gazing up at Mark E Smith, San Francisco July 1981 pic.twitter.com/fLLGzo2MMg

— Dorian Cope (@OnThisDeity) January 24, 2018

Sad to hear about the death of Mark E. Smith at 60. British music loses one of its most original and prolific talents. pic.twitter.com/ALqXl3zfBg

— THE THE (@thethe) January 24, 2018

Mark E. Smith once fired his sound engineer for ordering a salad. #thatsrocknroll

— Ian McNabb (@empiresend) January 24, 2018

I have a Mark E Smith story actually. Back in the day Suede got asked to support The Fall on a couple of dates. To a man we were massive fans and VERY excited to be asked. Everyone told us he could be rough on support bands but he was great. Lots of time to soundcheck. (1)

— Mat Osman (@matosman) January 24, 2018

He was friendly, helpful, told us to come straight to him with any problem. The shows were great, his crowd were great, The Fall were great. On our way home in the van we were listening to Richard Skinner and he had an interview with Mark. We listened in intently. (2)

— Mat Osman (@matosman) January 24, 2018

Especially when Skinner asked, "Do you like any of the new bands who are calling you an influence."
Mark said "Like who?"
Skinner asked "Well, like Suede."

There was a perfectly timed beat.

"Never heard of them."

— Mat Osman (@matosman) January 24, 2018

Like Bowie, Mark E Smith's death is being mourned by all ages. I think of him as the gunpowder of the late 70s. Others claim him in the 80s. Yet more for the 90s and then there's those who caught up with him in this century. That tells you everything.

— Danny Baker (@prodnose) January 24, 2018

A unique maverick musician dies and every journo writes about themselves in relation to MES. Ignore all the bullshit. Get your Fall albums out and immerse yourself in the greatness of the band and the sublime genius of Mark E Smith

— Kevin Cummins (@KCMANC) January 24, 2018

FYI: If you'd like to add to your Fall collection Cherry Red released a career-spanning anthology last year titled The Fall Singles 1978 - 2016. This is highly recommended for anyone looking to delve into this iconic band's catalog. There's a 7 disc deluxe edition (A-Sides + B-sides) or a three disc version with just the A-sides.













Published January 24th, 2018

Ian Brown of The Stone Roses: Banned from driving

Ian Brown of The Stone Roses has been banned from driving for six months. According to the Warrington Guardian, last February the singer was caught speeding in his Lexus at a speed in excess of 70 MPH. His case was heard on January 2nd, and since he was a repeat offender, the court handed down a six months driving suspension, plus Brown was ordered to pay a fine of 660 pounds (~ 900 U.S. dollars).

Read the report here via Stone Roses News.

The Stone Roses never officially disbanded after last summer's shows, however Ian Brown has reportedly been working on a new solo album which is expected to be released this spring.





Published January 24th, 2018

Evil Presidentes presents: Bowiemixone

Evil Presidentes aka Neil Waters, the superb DJ behind several phenomenal Depeche Mode mega-mixes, has struck gold again with a David Bowie mix. His set was presented live inside Classified Records in Dundalk, Ireland on January 13th as part of a pop-up Bowie mini-festival. Nineteen Bowie tracks are included in this very chill and magnificent mix which includes fan favorites and a few lesser known/more obscure tracks. Waters explains his creation:

"This setlist features less obvious tracks and tries to encapsulate a mood and project a feeling of time dilation which is based (mostly) around Bowie's 1977-82 'Berlin Trilogy' period. This is the David Bowie I have musical preference for; his work with Brian Eno has a wonderfully modern dystopian feel to it and is the Bowie I love most."

Stream below and download Bowiemixone over at Soundcloud. FYI: two more Bowie mixes from the pop-up festival will be available in the weeks to come, so stay tuned!



Published January 23rd, 2018

The Damned premiere "Standing On The Edge Of Tomorrow"

The Damned return with their 11th studio album Evil Spirits on April 13th. The album was produced by Tony Visconti, and according to Captain Sensible Visconti had the band record the album in a similar manner to their first record Damned Damned Damned. He told NME:

"There’s something wonderful about the seventies sounds; glam, rock and punk records, they all sound so great and Tony specialises in beautifully crafted old school production. He had us all playing live, bashing it out in the same room with a focus on getting the initial band version of each song as close as possible to the finished thing."

The 10 track album Evil Spirits features the new single "Standing On The Edge Of Tomorrow" which debuted this week via NME. Stream below or check out other streaming options here. Pre-order Evil Spirits now through Pledge Music.

Published January 24th, 2018

Franz Ferdinand roll out "Feel The Love Go" with bonkers video

Franz Ferdinand return with their fifth studio album Always Ascending on February 9th. This week the band debuted the official video for the new single "Feel The Love Go," directed by Diane Martel.

The bizarre video is a throwback to television evangelists of the late 80s, and features the band along with a magical winged saxophone. Truly bonkers, yet awesome. Enjoy below along with their recent appearance on Jimmy Fallon:

Always Ascending is available to pre-order as a deluxe LP, signed CD, or cassette over at FF's store. It's also available to pre-order digitally through Amazon.





Published January 24th, 2018

Smashing Pumpkins reunion won't include D'arcy Wretzky

Original members of Smashing Pumpkins will be reuniting for a summer tour, but it will be missing one key component: original bassist D'arcy Wretzky.

Wretzky told Blast Echo that she was not invited to participate:

“My apologies to all of the Smashing Pumpkins fans out there who are excited about this oncoming reunion tour of the original members of the band. I know this is a huge disappointment for me, as well, but it’s not going to happen [with me].

I only just found about yesterday that the band has decided to go with a different bass player.”

Wretzky says the tour will kick off in July but didn't reveal the identity of the band's bass player.

Billy Corgan began teasing the reunion last week by posting an in-studio picture of himself, James Iha, and Jimmy Chamberlin in the studio together on his Instagram.

Read the report here via Indie Hoy.

Published January 24th, 2018

The Brian Jonestown Massacre tour North America this spring

The Brian Jonestown Massacre announced dates for a North American tour in support of 2017's killer album Don't Get Lost. The tour includes a Detroit stop May 10th at the Majestic Theatre. Tickets go on sale this Friday, January 26th.

Check out the full tour itinerary below:





The Brian Jonestown Massacre - North American tour

Apr 29 -- Austin, TX @ Stubb's Bar-B-Q
May 02 -- Tampa Bay FL @ The Orpheum
May 03 -- Orlando, FL @ The Social
May 04 -- Atlanta, GA @ Shaky Knees Festival
May 05 -- Nashville, TN @ Cannery Ballroom
May 06 -- Indianapolis, IN @ HI-FI Indianapolis
May 08 -- Millvale, PA @ Mr. Smalls Theatre
May 09 -- Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
May 10 -- Detroit, MI @ Majestic Theatre
May 11 -- Chicago, IL @ Vic Theatre
May 12 -- Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
May 13 -- Madison, WI @ Majestic Theatre
May 15 -- St. Louis, MO @ Off Broadway
May 16 -- Kansas City, MO @ The Record Bar
May 17 -- Englewood, CO @ Gothic Theatre
May 18 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Metro Music Hall
May 19 -- Missoula, MT @ Top Hat Lounge
May 21 -- Vancouver, BC @ Vogue Theatre
May 22 -- Portland, OR @ Crystal Ballroom
May 23 -- Seattle, WA @ The Showbox
May 25 -- San Francisco, CA @ Bimbo's 365 Club
May 27 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Fonda Theatre

Published January 23rd, 2018

R.I.P. Jeremy Inkel of Front Line Assembly + Left Spine Down

Jeremy Inkel electronic guru who played in Left Spine Down, Front Line Assembly, and Noise Unit has died. According to his family Inkel died on January 13th of complications from asthma. He was 34 years old.

Inkel co-founded the electo-industrial Vancouver band Left Spine Down in 2003. In 2005 he joined Front Line Assembly and co-wrote/produced several of their albums including Artificial Soldier, Improvised Electronic Device, and Echogenetic. He was also a member of Noise Unit.

R.I.P.

We are sad to learn that @JeremyInkel,the talented man behind keyboards and programming @F7A has suddenly passed away.We had the chance to see the band perform live in London twice in the last two years!R.I.P.Our condolences to @F7A pic.twitter.com/embPMsRL57

— Blauerosen (@blauerosenmusik) January 24, 2018

It is with a very heavy heart that we announce that Jeremy Inkel passed away on January 13, 2018. He was 34 years old. He died suddenly from complications due to his asthma. A private ceremony will be held in the coming days.a.

— minkel (@minkel) January 23, 2018

An open memorial event will be arranged at a later date. He leaves behind a mother, father, aunts, uncles and cousins that loved him dearly. And Jeremy had many friends and colleagues that loved him.

— minkel (@minkel) January 23, 2018

If you want to pose a gesture in memory of Jeremy, please make a cash donation to your local food bank.
Please remember Jeremy for the kind, funny, soulful, talented person that he was.

— minkel (@minkel) January 23, 2018

I am stunned and sorry to say my friend and colleague in @F7A , Jeremy Inkel has passed away far too soon. This is difficult to process right now. My condolences to his family in this difficult time.

— Rhys Fülber (@rhysfulber) January 24, 2018

speechless.. rip Jeremy Inkel
<3

— cEvin Key (@cEvinKey) January 23, 2018

Published January 23rd, 2018

Classically Smiths: I Know It's Over

To the surprise of absolutely no one the Classically Smiths orchestral production which was to feature ex-Smiths Mike Joyce, Andy Rourke, and Craig Gannon has been officially canceled.

Not long after Mike Joyce pulled out of Classically Smiths today, production company Bad Production Ltd made the inevitable official and issued their own statement:

"In response to recent comments in the press, the planned Classically Smiths events will now no longer be taking place."

Classically Smiths imploded in a very, shall we say, classically Smiths way. Review the timeline for the shortest and saddest reunion in music history below.

1/19: Mike Joyce teased a project with his ex-Smiths bandmates Andy Rourke and Craig Gannon.

1/22: A press conference was held in the morning to announce Classically Smiths - an orchestral production featuring the ex-Smiths members performing iconic songs backed by the Manchester Camerata Orchestra. Three UK shows were announced with the promise of a fuller UK tour to follow.

1/22: In the late afternoon Andy Rourke issued a statement distancing himself from the project; claimed he never agreed to participate.

1/23: This morning Mike Joyce issued a statement announcing he decided to withdraw from participating in Classically Smiths.

1/23: A short while later, production company Bad Production Ltd axes Classically Smiths

The End.



Published January 23rd, 2018

Peter Murphy clarifies "bugger off" comments he made about David Bowie

Peter Murphy has taken some heat for recently comments he made to the San Francisco Chronicle about David Bowie. The article in question was a short Q & A piece promoting his residency which kicks off tonight at The Chapel in San Francisco. Reporter Aidin Vaziri ended the interview by asking Murphy if the world feels less meaningful without David Bowie. Murphy's response was as follows:

"No. He was always an overhanging presence. I love him, but his death wasn’t a loss of a superstar. It was death. We all die. It wasn’t really working. Even his last album, the two singles were good but the rest of it was rubbish. I let him go years ago. He was a bit of a twit if he talked too much. It was a bit tiring, this whole cosmology of David Bowie. He was a spark. But it was time to bugger off. And he did bugger off."

As you would imagine, the comments didn't go over so well with a lot of Bowie fans. Murphy has now clarified the comments he made in a lengthy post on Instagram, explaining that he truly loves David Bowie:

"David Bowie was, is, and always shall be deeply honoured, prayed for, and loved by me for his magical musical works and unmatched special influence"

And he explains the use of the term "bugger off":

"In the Midlands of England, my birthplace, ‘bugger off’ is a benign, non poisonous , colloquiailism – a provincial soft way of saying ‘give me a break/ take a rain check/ leave it out mate’. It’s often used, by me at least, in a jolly way . It’s definitely not a hard core swear word. So anyone getting their “knickers in a twist “ over this (‘upset’ in Midland speak ), absolutely don’t take it so hard."

Murphy's full comments are available to view below or over on Instagram. It should be noted that Murphy has covered David Bowie plenty of times over the years, and during Murphy's last tour his "Bewlay Brothers" cover was part of the set and included on Murphy's live album Bare Boned and Sacred.

Meanwhile the interview with Murphy included a few other nuggets: he discussed his vocal cord issue that forced him to postpone his residency last year (he blames too much smoking and gastric reflux); talked briefly about playing with ex-Bauhaus bandmate David J again (called it an act of respect); and revealed that there's only one song in his catalog that he hates and doesn't want to play. Sadly he didn't name the song, so have fun guessing at that one.

Read the full interview over at the San Francisco Chronicle here.



Peter Murphy statement on Bowie:

"Tell David Bowie I Love Him Very Much ......... He knows... Whhoops a daisy. I’m woken by the din of the crowd yelling ‘put him in the stocks’ .. as they pelt me with left over vegetables, ..’ some bark’ you awful chap’. ..‘ foul play’.

All due to the ever so affectionate way that I quipped the other day to a nice sort of chap, an American writer from San Francisco,how David Bowie had ‘buggered off'‘ at some point.

David Bowie was, is, and always shall be deeply honoured, prayed for, and loved by me for his magical musical works and unmatched special influence. However, when I say that, sometime after Let’s Dance I stopped listening to the albums and appreciated the fact that he ‘buggered’ off at some point. One, of course I was not referring to his death (for God’s sake whomever thinks that, don’t be so ridiculous). I’m talking about when he disappeared from view and lived a well earned private life, from around 2006. That edifice of ‘David Bowie‘ that seemed to hang overhead, that felt often like an ever present oppressive standard to either be compared to or to have no way to match, was lifted by Mr Bowie’s retreat for those years. That is: when he ‘ buggered off’ ….and you know I loved him the more for being so smart as to ‘bugger off’. Until that time when, with Another Day and two songs from Black Star, he made stunning, genuine Bowie records.

In the Midlands of England, my birthplace, ‘bugger off’ is a benign, non poisonous , colloquiailism – a provincial soft way of saying ‘give me a break/ take a rain check/ leave it out mate’. It’s often used, by me at least, in a jolly way . It’s definitely not a hard core swear word. So anyone getting their “knickers in a twist “ over this (‘upset’ in Midland speak ), absolutely don’t take it so hard.

And God, Jehova, Allah: Tell David I love him very much ....(and God replies: ‘He knows’)"



Peter Murphy - The Chapel residency

Jan 23 -- Should The World Fail to Fall Apart
Jan 24 -- Should The World Fail to Fall Apart
Jan 26 -- Love Hysteria
Jan 27 -- Love Hysteria
Jan 28 -- Love Hysteria
Jan 31 -- Deep
Feb 02 -- Deep
Feb 03 -- Deep
Feb 04 -- Holy Smoke
Feb 07 -- Cascade
Feb 09 -- Dust
Feb 10 -- Ninth
Feb 11 -- Stripped
Feb 14 -- Mr. Moonlight (Bauhaus set w/David J)
Feb 15 -- Mr. Moonlight (Bauhaus set w/David J)
Feb 16 -- Mr. Moonlight (Bauhaus set w/David J)

Published January 23rd, 2018

Classically Smiths drama continues: Mike Joyce is out

And the Classically Smiths drama continues to unfold...

1/19: Mike Joyce teased a project with his ex-Smiths bandmates Andy Rourke and Craig Gannon.

1/22: A press conference was held in the morning to announce Classically Smiths - an orchestral production featuring the ex-Smiths members performing iconic songs backed by the Manchester Camerata Orchestra. Three UK shows were announced with the promise of a fuller UK tour to follow.

1/22: In the late afternoon Andy Rourke issued a statement distancing himself from the project; claimed he never agreed to participate.

Now the latest:

Mike Joyce has followed suit and bowed out of Classically Smiths. Joyce issued a statement indicating that everyone knew late in the game that Rourke wasn't going to take part. Despite this Joyce participated in the press conference; he was hoping to leave out any mention of Rourke's involvement but claims he was not allowed to do so. He's now decided to pull out the the shows as well:

"After much deliberation and soul searching I have decided that without Andy, an integral part of why I agreed to take part in the first place, I have come to this difficult decision. I still believe the shows and concept to be a fantastic idea and wish them all the success they deserve."

Classically Smiths is down to one original member of The Smiths - Craig Gannon. Tickets for the three UK shows are scheduled to go on sale this Friday, though it's hard to imagine the shows will go on at this point. Expect more finger pointing and issuing of press statements as the drama continues to unfold.

Read the full statement from Mike Joyce below:

"It is with much regret that I have to announce that I will not be taking part in the show(s) Classically Smiths. I entered into agreement in good faith to perform these shows with Andy Rourke and Craig Gannon. Unfortunately it became apparent very late that Andy would not be taking part. I agreed with Andy that I would take part in the press conference and inform people that he would not be taking part. Unfortunately on the morning of the press conference I was informed I would not be able to say this. I therefore agreed to take part in the press interviews but did so without discussing Andy's participation in the venture at any point during all tv, radio and print interviews.

After much deliberation and soul searching I have decided that without Andy, an integral part of why I agreed to take part in the first place, I have come to this difficult decision. I still believe the shows and concept to be a fantastic idea and wish them all the success they deserve."

Published January 23rd, 2018

Ex-Smiths Classically Smiths reunion drama: Andy Rourke not participating

The mini-Smiths reunion Classically Smiths has gotten a little smaller and a lot more dramatic.

Earlier today Classically Smiths, the orchestral production featuring the music of The Smiths played by original members Mike Joyce, Andy Rourke, and Craig Gannon, backed by Manchester Camerata Orchestra was announced.

Only hours later bassist Andy Rourke has made it clear he will not be participating and had no intention to ever participate. Rourke issued a statement one hour ago alleging he never consented to take part in the first place and the others involved knew that well in advance of today's announcement. Additionally Rourke claims that the original press statement issued by Classically Smiths included quotes attributed to him that he didn't make.

The quote in question:

"To have been there the first time round and seen it first hand, and to still be such a big fan of The Smiths today, I am both thrilled and excited to be involved in Classically Smiths. I’m really proud of the band’s work, and being able to present those songs again in this particular production format promises to be a real gift for audiences everywhere."

Rourke alleges the quote amounts to "false statements" made on his behalf.

So far there's been no comment from Classically Smiths, the Manchester Camerata Orchestra, or Bad Production Ltd, however the story/drama is still unfolding. Stay tuned.

Read Rourke's statement in full below or on Facebook:

It has been erroneously reported that ANDY ROURKE of The Smiths would be partaking in Classically Smiths which would reunite him with The Smiths drummer Mike Joyce and second guitarist Craig Gannon in an orchestral re-imagining of the iconic band's music.

At no point did Andy Rourke agree to participate or otherwise license or authorize the use of his name, likeness or any personal quotes in any manner in connection with this Classically Smiths project. The parties involved were advised of this on multiple occasions prior to them going to press. A press conference and press release were scheduled and serviced to the media without Andy Rourke's or his team's knowledge or approval. Any quotes by Andy Rourke that were attributed in any press materials in regards to the Classically Smiths project were not provided, authorized or otherwise approved by him or his representatives.

I am deeply saddened that during the week of the death of my dear friend Dolores O'Riordan, that false statements are made on my behalf. At no time did I give my consent for anyone in connection with this Classically Smiths project to act on my behalf or my name and nothing was ever confirmed, approved or contracted by me or my team"

Published January 22nd, 2018

Members of The Smiths reunite for 'Classically Smiths'

On Friday, Mike Joyce teased a mysterious project featuring ex-bandmates Andy Rourke and Craig Gannon. Today they've announced what they're up to - an orchestral production titled Classically Smiths.

Joyce, Rourke, and Gannon will perform Smiths songs with guest vocalists backed by the Manchester Camerata Orchestra - the experimental orchestra behind the critically acclaimed Haçienda Classical concerts. The production features reimagined/rearranged versions of beloved Smiths songs and stunning visual imagery. Guest vocalists have not yet been announced.

The setlist will include Smiths mega-classics as well as songs The Smiths never or rarely performed live. These songs have been confirmed to be part of the setlist:

There Is A Light That Never Goes Out
The Boy With The Thorn In His Side
A Rush And A Push And The Land Is Ours
Hand In Glove
How Soon Is Now?
Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want
Oscillate Wildy
Shoplifters Of The World Unite
Girlfriend In A Coma
Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me

The reunited members are quick to point out they are not The Smiths:

"We are not The Smiths, but we are certainly not to be missed by anyone whose lives were defined – and are still being defined – by the enduring sounds of one of the UK’s finest ever bands. This is the celebration of that.”

Mike Joyce:

"I’m massively excited to be playing with Andy and Craig again, but introducing a full orchestra into the mix takes this to another level. There’ll be Smiths classics in the set, but I can’t wait to play the songs that have never been heard live before.

With the addition of an orchestra, it will sound as totally unique as it will immense. I’m really looking forward to fans being able to hear the songs in a way they’ve never been heard before, either on record or live. On the stage, or out front, this is going to be quite an experience for us all."

Andy Rourke:

"To have been there the first time round and seen it first hand, and to still be such a big fan of The Smiths today, I am both thrilled and excited to be involved in Classically Smiths.

"I’m really proud of the band’s work, and being able to present those songs again in this particular production format promises to be a real gift for audiences everywhere."

Craig Gannon:

"Classically Smiths will be a refreshing and exciting production, not only for us as musicians, but ultimately for the people coming to see and hear it. I'm really looking forward to playing these great songs with an orchestra and I know people are going to embrace the way in which they are presented."

Bob Riley, Manchester Camerata:

"For us, it’s all about the sound, energy and live performance of an orchestra. We are very excited to be collaborating with members of epic Manchester band The Smiths who were undoubtedly one of the most influential and inspirational bands of the 20th century. We will be bringing the full live orchestral experience to these iconic tunes and are delighted to be able to bring that experience to Smiths fans old and new.”

Classically Smiths debuts in Manchester on June 28th, then moves to London and Edinburgh. Tickets for all three shows go on sale January 26th.

Read the full press statement here via We Are Mozzerians.

Classically Smiths - tour

Jun 28 -- Manchester @ O2 Apollo
Jun 29 -- London @ O2 Academy, Brixton
Jul 02 -- Edinburgh @ Usher Hall

Published January 22nd, 2018

Classic Alternative - Episode #39: Perpetuity Chamber

Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #39: Perpetuity Chamber

Rock it old school with a new streaming episode of Time Warp.

This week's show includes music from The Raincoats, Social Distortion, The Stooges, The Monochrome Set, The Cranberries, Ned's Atomic Dustbin, Depeche Mode, Joy Division, Jane's Addiction, Swervedriver, The Smiths, and more.

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

PROGRAMMING NOTE: This episode includes an uncensored remix of a classic from Nine Inch Nails in the final hour of the show. Discretion is advised if you're streaming over speakers at work, etc.


Music news stories from the week

Engineer/producer Danny Hyde explains Coil/NIN Recoiled EP
R.I.P Jim Rodford of The Kinks
Members of The Smiths team up for???
The Monochrome Set collect 'Complete Recordings'
Stream: Bass legend Peter Hook teams up with The Limiñanas
Trashcan Sinatras live DVD/CD All Night In America
Billy Corgan reunites with James Iha + Jimmy Chamberlin
Video: Shane MacGowan's Birthday Concert ft Nick Cave, Sinéad O'Connor + more
Cocteau Twins vinyl reissues coming in February
Afghan Whigs announce North American tour + stream live session
David Byrne announces North American tour; plays Detroit
R.I.P. Dolores O'Riordan of The Cranberries
Celebrate Blue Monday with (who else?) New Order

Engineer/producer Danny Hyde explains NIN/Coil EP 'Recoiled'

In the early 90s (and at the request of super-fan Trent Reznor), Coil (John Balance, Peter Christopherson) remixed several of NIN's songs for the Nine Inch Nails album Further Down The Spiral, which was released in 1995.

Almost 20 year later fansite Echoing The Sound contacted Danny Hyde (engineer/producer of the sessions) to find out if any outtakes from the sessions existed. Hyde went through his DAT archive and located the original material along with his extensive typewritten notes (listing of samples, sequences, pre-sets, etc), and later recreated remixes of that unreleased material.

The four remixes Hyde completed would go on to be released in 2014 as the four song EP Recoiled. Recoiled was not an official NIN release, though Trent Reznor was aware of the project and never fought its release.

Earlier this month Danny Hyde created a 20 minute video explaining how he went about recreating the remixes from the original studio sessions in the 90s. If you're interested in engineering/producing and/or the technical side of making music, the video is a fascinating window into the creative process.

Check out the video below:



Published January 21st, 2018

R.I.P, Jim Rodford of The Kinks

Jim Rodford, bass player for The Kinks, Argent, and The Zombies has died. Rodford's cousin and bandmate Rod Argent broke the news, confirming Rodford died suddenly on January 20th after falling down a flight of stairs. Rodford was 76 years old.

Rodford was a founding member of Argent and later joined The Kinks in 1978. He remained in The Kinks until they disbanded in the 90s, then played with The Zombies.

R.I.P.

I’m devastated Jim’s sudden loss I’m too broken up to put words together it’s such a shock i always thought Jim would live forever in true rock and roll fashion - strange - great friend great musician great man - he was an integral part of theKinks later years RIP #JimRodford pic.twitter.com/rL5vAuuVwp

— Dave Davies (@davedavieskinks) January 20, 2018

Published January 21st, 2018

Members of The Smiths team up for...???

Bombshell news: Ex-members of The Smiths - Mike Joyce, Andy Rourke, and Craig Gannon (Gannon was the second guitarist in The Smiths) - have something up their sleeves.

Earlier today Joyce posted a cryptic graphic teasing some sort of project on social media. So far no further details have been announced, so let your imagination run wild! A live show? A few live shows? A recording????

pic.twitter.com/gaJOCE4GUZ

— Mike Joyce (@mikejoycedrums) January 19, 2018

pic.twitter.com/mXOFhIU4oB

— Mike Joyce (@mikejoycedrums) January 19, 2018

Stay tuned for details!

For those wondering if this is something that will include Johnny Marr and Morrissey...LOLOL no chance. Though Marr has appeared on stage with Rourke a few times over recent years, it's highly unlikely he would partner up with his ex-bandmates for any kind of project. We needn't even discuss the possibilities of Morrissey's possible participation. Let's just say you'd have more luck getting Morrissey to visit Buckingham Palace for tea and crumpets with The Queen followed by the two belting out a rousing version of "Sorrow Will Come In The End."

Regardless, this summer should be interesting indeed.

pic.twitter.com/D5zsit4ufg

— Mike Joyce (@mikejoycedrums) January 19, 2018

Published January 19th, 2018

The Monochrome Set collect '1979-1985: Complete Recordings' + release new LP

London artsy post-punk new wave indie band The Monochrome Set announced the release of a limited edition box set. The 6CD/6LP collection titled The Monochrome Set 1979-1985: Complete Recordings will be released February 9th and collects material from their early years along with an extensive booklet featuring lyrics for all songs and liner notes by leader Bid (aka Ganesh Seshadri).

The Monochrome Set formed from the ashes of The B-sides (Adam Ant's early band) and though they never enjoyed commercial success many musical luminaries have sung the praises of the band, including Morrissey, Johnny Marr, Graham Coxon, and Alex Kapranos among others.

Though the Monochrome Set are commonly described as post-punk, Bid scoffs at that label:

"I always find it odd that people call us post-punk...I know that punk and New Wave started at the same time because I was there. The genre was to be not a genre. We didn't talk about it, we were just different."

The Monochrome Set have also announced the release of a brand new album titled Maisieworld on February 9th. Stream a three song preview here.

View the tracklisting for The Monochrome Set 1979-1985: Complete Recordings below and pre-order the limited edition boxset and Maisieworld from Tapete Records or Amazon.



CD1/LP1 Strange Boutique

01. The Monochrome Set (I Presume)
02. The Lighter Side Of Dating
03. Expresso
04. The Puerto Rican Fence Climber
05. Tomorrow Will Be Too Long
06. Martians Go Home
07. Love Goes Down The Drain
08. Ici Les Enfants
09. The Etcetera Stroll
10. Goodbye Joe
11. The Strange Boutique

CD2/LP2 Love Zombies

01. Love Zombies
02. Adeste Fideles
03. 405 Lines
04. B-I-D Spells Bid
05. R.S.V.P.
06. Apocalypso
07. Karma Suture
08. The Man With The Black Moustache
09. The Weird, Wild And Wonderful World Of Tony Potts
10. "In Love, Cancer?"

CD3/LP3 Eligible Bachelors

01. The Jet Set Junta
02. I'll Scry Instead
03. On The 13th Day
04. Cloud 10
05. The Mating Game
06. March Of The Eligible Bachelors
07. The Devil Rides Out
08. Fun For All The Family
09. The Midas Touch
10. The Ruling Class
11. The Great Barrier Riff

CD4/LP4 The Lost Weekend

01. Jacob's Ladder
02. Sugarplum
03. Cargo
04. Take Foz
05. Letter From Viola
06. Don't Touch
07. The Twitch
08. Wallflower
09. Starry Nowhere
10. Boom Boom
11. Cowboy Country

CD5/LP5 Singles I

01. He's Frank
02. Alphaville
03. Eine Symphonie Des Grauens
04. Lester Leaps In
05. The Monochrome Set
06. Mr. Bizarro
07. He's Frank (Slight Return)
08. Silicon Carne
09. Fallout
10. Surfing S.W.12
11. 405 Lines
12. Fiasco Bongo

CD6/LP6 Singles II

01. Ten Don'ts For Honeymooners
02. Straits Of Malacca
03. J.D.H.A.N.E.Y.
04. Cast A Long Shadow
05. The Bridge
06. The Jet Set Junta
07. Love Goes Down The Drain
08. Noise (Eine Kleine Symphonie)
09. Andiamo
10. Le Boom Boom
11. Yo Ho Ho (and three bottles of rum)
12. Big Ben Bongo
13. Wallflower (Saloon Bar Mix)

The Soft Moon destroy + annihilate on "Choke"

The Soft Moon return with a new album Criminal on February 2nd. Last fall the darkwave/post-punk band (aka Luis Vasquez) premiered a few songs from the album but now Vasquez has thrown down the gauntlet with the premiere of the rapid-fire propulsive groove titled "Choke." Complete and utter mind melting annihilation incoming. Swoon!



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 January 19th 2018

The Limiñanas team up with Peter Hook on new LP 'Shadow People'

The Limiñanas teamed up with Peter Hook a couple of years ago for the single "Garden Of Love." The French duo announced that they've once again collaborated with the bass legend on a brand new song titled "The Gift," which appears on their new album Shadow People.

The single premieres January 19th, and in anticipation of the release the band premiered a behind the scenes video on the making of "The Gift" which features interview clips with Hooky. He revealed that he plays bass and sings on "The Gift" and said he agreed to sing on the track because he loves Marie Limiñanas voice and the pairing of their vocals. He also described the flow of the single to being similar to "La Vie En Rose" by Grace Jones and said he hopes to someday record a third song with The Limiñanas.

Watch the making of video featuring Peter Hook below.

Shadow People arrives January 19th and also includes a song featuring Anton Newcombe of Brian Jonestown Massacre - the official video for "Istanbul Is Sleepy" featuring Newcombe is available to view below.









Published January 17th, 2018